History and Heritage in August

The Friendswood Public Library hosted two fantastic programs this month featuring two local residents.  It is a true honor to help bring these inspiring individuals to the Friendswood Public Library to share their knowledge and wisdom with the community. 

Local resident WN Crawford shared his immense knowledge of the Civil War through the voice of his great-grandfather Lt. David Lefevre Crawford of the 139th Pennsylvania Infantry Regiment.  Utilizing a Powerpoint presentation with images, maps, and songs, Mr. Crawford was able to illuminate the life of this Civil War soldier and relay the events leading to and during the battles of Gettysburg and Cedar Creek.  Bill Crawford’s grandson, Daniel Crawford, added to the presentation by appearing midway in full Civil War uniform with sword drawn.  Mr. Crawford also brought numerous Civil War items (including the bible carried by David during the war) which were on display throughout the program.

Mayor of Pearland Tom Reid on left, Bill Crawford on right

Bill Crawford's grandson, Daniel Crawford

Mark, Daniel, and Bill Crawford; and me

Rebecca Hatcher Travis, member of the Chickasaw Nation, shared her knowledge and experience with Chickasaw history and culture.   Reading from her book of award-winning poetry, she was able to provide insight into the shared history and culture of the Chickasaw Nation.  Several attendees were Chickasaw or Cherokee members and a good time was had by all as people shared their knowledge and experience.  

Upcoming Friendswood Public Library programs include:

Wednesday, September 14th at 7pm Poetry Reading with featured poet Sybil Estess and Laura's Poetry Group. Sybil Pittman Estess, Ph.D., was one of eight finalists for Poet Laureate of the State of Texas in 2009.

Wednesday, September 21st at 7pm Inflammatory Breast Cancer- No Lump, Can Still Be Cancer: Come and hear the story of a Friendswood woman, Terry Arnold, as she will share her IBC story. Terry Arnold will also talk about her work that resulted in a Texas State Resolution read in the House and Senate declaring October 2011 IBC Awareness month.

Wednesday, October 5th at 7pm Legendary Norden Bombsight: The Norden bombsight was used by the United States Army Air Forces and the United States Navy during World War II to aid the crew of bomber aircraft in dropping bombs accurately. Its operation was a closely guarded secret of World War II. W N Crawford will present his training as a WW II Bombardier/Navigator with pictures detailing the operation of the bombsight.