The Deadliest Tornado

I am republishing an old story today because I do not have time to write.  Today is the 98th anniversary of the deadliest tornado in American history, and that tornado went through Perry County.  The centennial anniversary of that tragic event will take place in 2 years. =========================================== Ninety-one years ago, on March 18, 1925, … More The Deadliest Tornado

Symbols of Our Stories

I enjoyed working this fine Sunday afternoon at the Lutheran Heritage Center. Upon arriving I walked around, and after 16 years as the director here, I am still amazed at the new things I notice—even in exhibits I’ve created myself. As a historian in material culture, I am naturally fascinated by objects, documents, art, and … More Symbols of Our Stories

A Love Note to Lester & Annemarie in Palmetto Bay

Warren Schmidt’s blogs are a treasure for all of us. One of the many positive ripples from his writings are the relationships that sprout from the seeds he plants. I have had the honor of meeting-via telephone conversations-Lester & Annemarie Brockmann. Lester found us via the blogs, and reached out after Warren’s blog on Adolf … More A Love Note to Lester & Annemarie in Palmetto Bay

Groh West, Young Man

On November 12, 1889, Ernest Friedrich Karl Groh was born in Altenburg, Missouri.  I have learned that you have to be careful when looking at the Groh family.  There are plenty of men named Ernest and Friedrich and Karl (Carl) in that family.  This one had all those names, but he would later mostly be … More Groh West, Young Man