This month our 251 Club will be visiting the Shelburne Museum which is one of the most popular attractions in Vermont. Shelburne Museum is the largest art and history museum in northern New England and a foremost public resource for visual art and material culture.

This lecture explores the life and legacy of Nicholas Black Elk (1866-1950), the Lakota holy man made famous by the book “Black Elk Speaks.” Costello begins with Black Elk’s Great Vision and his struggle to discern his calling during the events of the Great Sioux War.
During his long life, Black Elk lived out his vision in three overlapping roles: as a traditional healer, a Catholic teacher, and a revivalist of Indigenous traditions. In the midst of great tragedy, Black Elk wove these three strands into one beautiful life exemplifying survival, hope, and reconciliation. The talk is based on extensive historical research, extended residency in Indian Country, and continuing conversation with Lakota elders.

The Town of Lake Elmore calls itself “The Beauty Spot of Vermont.” The park had its beginning in 1936 when the town of Elmore and local citizens made a gift of 30 acres on Lake Elmore to the state of Vermont. With modest means, a picnic and beach area were created. Today, with more than 700 acres, Elmore State Park has become a popular, developed recreation facility. Weather permitting, we’ll head to Elmore State Park to take in the scenery and have a delicious picnic provided by the Westview Meadows kitchen.

In all seasons, trees are our intriguing partners in life. This program will provide a good excuse to enjoy photographs of trees while looking closely at many of the things we don’t always pay attention to—from bark and leaves to shade and shapes, from seeds and fruits to wood and CO2. John, actively involved with trees in many ways for 50 years, will share his marvel at these living things and their long lives.

Westview Meadows is pleased to host Michael Cunningham who will be presenting on many things about fishing. Michael holds a Fisheries Biology degree from UVM but his love for fishing started when he was just a child and he continues to learn and explore this vast and varied sport. Michael will bring some fishing tackle to show, photos of various fish he has caught, and he may impart a few Vermont fishing tips, too. Come hear about this fascinating sport from a life-long lover of fishing.