Join award-winning journalist and author Lois Romano for a conversation with ALPLM Executive Director Christina Shutt about Romano's latest book, An Inconvenient Widow: The Torment, Trial, and Triumph of Mary Todd Lincoln.
Drawing on years of research, Romano offers a fresh perspective on one of the most misunderstood First Ladies in American history. The discussion will explore Mary Lincoln's remarkable life, the challenges she faced in the public eye, and how her legacy has been shaped by history. Together, Romano and Shutt will examine the research behind the biography, the complexities of interpreting historical figures, and why Mary Lincoln's story continues to resonate today.
Discover how the bicycle helped shape communities, recreation, transportation, and culture across Illinois in this engaging luncheon presentation by historian and author Chris Sweet, Professor and Scholarly Communications and Information Literacy Librarian at Illinois Wesleyan University. Drawing from his book A History of Bicycling in Illinois and his experience as a former professional cyclist and triathlete, Sweet explores the rich and often overlooked history of bicycling in the Prairie State.
The presentation will be complemented by a special display of cycling-inspired artwork by Springfield artist Jeff Williams. Known for his acclaimed career as a musician, competitive cyclist, and fine artist, Williams' paintings capture the spirit, movement, and beauty of cycling, offering a unique artistic perspective that pairs perfectly with Sweet's historical presentation.
