Embark on a transformative journey with instructor Dr. David Greenhaw where we dive into the profound complexities of mortality. Discover how confronting death can be both daunting and liberating, offering a fresh perspective on the essence of existence itself. Through rich discussions and exploration of poetry and metaphor, we unravel the intricate tapestry of life and death, inviting you to reimagine your relationship with mortality and embrace the profound beauty of every moment. Join us for an enlightening exploration that promises to reshape your worldview and ignite a newfound appreciation for the preciousness of life.

If you can believe it, St. Louis was once a photography capital of the world. The city attracted all kinds of innovative photographers, manufacturers and dealers, and inventors in the nineteenth century. This presentation explores the early history of photography in St. Louis, introducing participants to the people, places, and technology behind the city’s bustling trade. Through a selection of interesting archival materials and unpublished photographs, participants will learn all about how St. Louis became a destination for photographers and how the city played a part in making the photography industry what it is today.

Join John C. Guenther, FAIA, LEED AP, John C. Guenther Architect LLC. Named for its designer and builder, James Buchanan Eads, work on the Eads Bridge began in 1867. Even during construction, the New York Times called it "The World's Eighth Wonder.” Completed in 1874, the Eads Bridge was the first bridge across the Mississippi south of the Missouri River and is the oldest bridge on the Mississippi River. The 6,442-foot-long Eads Bridge is an engineering marvel and aesthetic triumph. It was the first large-scale use of steel as a structural material. The triple span, tubular steel arch construction – with the longest arch span of 520 feet – are supported by two shore abutments and two mid-river piers, whose foundations were the deepest underwater constructions at the time, reaching more than 100 feet below water level. Construction techniques featured an inventive cantilevered rigging system supported by the stone piers to erect the steel arches. Attendees will leave with a greater appreciation of this much-loved landmark of St. Louis and its designer, James Buchanan Eads.

It is no surprise that Laura Smith Haviland was inducted into the National Abolition Hall of Fame and Museum in 2018. Everywhere she went, she dedicated her life to racial equity. From co-founding Michigan's first racially integrated school to traveling to the South to aid escaped slaves, the question is, "What didn't Laura Smith Haviland do?" She was so bold that a family of enslavers from Tennessee harassed her for 15 years and placed a bounty of $3,000 on her head. That's the equivalent of over $110,000 in 2024! Laura Smith Haviland is one of about 50 women featured in the Legacy Quilt Project, a project organized by artist and activist Aaron McMullin. Join Aaron for an engaging presentation about Haviland's life and legacy.