Tomorrow the Stuart People Active for Library Service (PALS) will be hosting David Connan for a presentation covering part of Iowa’s history around and during the Civil War.

PALS member Kathy Johnson says that Connan has spent nearly 20 years researching the Civil War and the Underground Railroad, and how Iowa was involved in each. She tells Raccoon Valley Radio who and what his presentation will cover, including an Iowan named Josiah Bushnell Grinnell.

“He (Josiah Bushnell Grinnell) participated in the Iowa Underground Railroad. JB Grinnell and other Grinnell residents helped at least 37 fugitive slaves who passed through their town before the Civil War, but some residents opposed this work. David Connan will tell a story of racism, noble actions and conflict. He will highlight abolitionist John Brown’s visit to Grinnell and Grinnell’s first riot over the presence of fugitive slaves in the public school.”

Johnson mentions that Connan will be at the library and begin his presentation at 10am. The event is open to the public, and free to attend. The Stuart PALS are excited to see everyone come in and hear more about some Iowa history.