Hear Ozarks Life Stories and the People Who Shaped Our Culture
The Ozarks has been home to many well-remembered characters – musicians, artists, folklorists – as well as unsung tradespeople and entrepreneurs. Join us to hear from area authors, musicians and photojournalists about the captivating life stories that shaped the Ozarks. All programs are scheduled in the Library Center auditorium.
"Horton Smith: A Masters Legacy"
Thursday, May 4, 7 p.m. Masters Tournament champion and PGA President Horton Smith’s life was notable for his athletic excellence, professional triumph and navigation of turbulent years in American (and sporting) history. Rick Grayson, author of "Horton Smith: A Masters Legacy," recounts Smith’s life, including the establishment and opening of the Horton Smith Golf Course in Springfield, his untimely death and his legacy. Books will be available for purchase and signing. Sponsored by the Ozarks Studies Institute, Missouri State University.
"Generation B Music & Melodies"
Tuesday, May 16, 7 p.m. The story of the Bedells, a Black musical family from Springfield, Missouri, stretches back more than a century. For five generations they have written, performed and sold recordings throughout southwest Missouri and the United States. Ernie Bedell, author of the 2022 book "Generation B Music & Melodies," highlights the achievements and contributions of the Bedells and other Black musicians rooted in Springfield. Books will be available for purchase and signing.
Bob Linder: Life Through A Lens
Thursday, May 18, 7 p.m. Missouri Photojournalism Hall of Fame photographer Bob Linder spent decades documenting life around the Ozarks for the Springfield News-Leader and other publications. Linder will look back on his 50-year career, giving insight into the stories behind his favorite images and sharing his passion for photographing the people and places of the Missouri and Arkansas Ozarks.
Ozark Life: Meet the Folks Who Live It
Thursday, May 25, 7 p.m. Video journalist Ed Fillmer has captured the story of the Ozarks, its characters and its culture for more than 40 years. Fillmer will share videos from his archive of some 1,500 tales about life in the Ozarks – from long-held traditions, to businesses and landmarks of the past, to the memorable people and communities that make the Ozarks unique.
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