Jackson Hole Historical Society and Museum, 1958.0651.001
The second presentation in the Humanities Al Fresco! series is scheduled for Monday, July 12, 6:30 p.m., at the Grand Teton Climbers Ranch. Dr. Sherry Smith presents, “Geraldine Lucas: Mountaineering, Homesteading, and Fighting the Federal Government in Early 20th Century Jackson Hole.” The program is presented in partnership with the Grand Teton Climbers Ranch, which is located within walking distance of Lucas’s homestead cabins. Bring your own lawn chairs, hats, repellent, and water! Park admission fees apply.
A long time Moose resident, Smith is currently employed as a distinguished professor in the history department at Southern Methodist University. She also serves as associate director, William B. Clements Center for Southwest Studies, and she previously taught in the history departments of the University of Texas, El Paso, the University of Colorado, and the University of Wyoming. Smith worked in the Wyoming Historic Preservation Office and has written many articles and books on Western topics and featuring Wyoming people. Smith’s interpretation of Geraldine Lucas’s story entails many classic elements of American Western history: migrating, homesteading, mountain climbing, and barrier shattering. She did it as an “independent woman” – but with her family and the government providing support (and occasional vexation). Her story juxtaposes individual drive, self interest, and the growing demands of community in the changing West of the early 20th century.
The Humanities Al Fresco! outdoor summer lecture series is inspired by northwest Wyoming’s rich history of significant contributions to the conservation movement in America. The Wyoming Humanities Council partners with local organizations to present outdoor lectures related to America’s conservation movement and the preservation of historic cultural resources in the Jackson Hole area. Remaining presentations are “The Airport: Paradox for a Park” with Robert Righter on August 2 at The Murie Center, and “Cattle and Conservation” with Pete Simpson and Ken Thomasma on August 28 at the Teton Science Schools, Kelly Campus.
For more information about Humanities Al Fresco!, visit the Wyoming Humanities Council website or call 307-721-9243.
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