Cabin Fever Lecture Series 2025

Thursday, February 20, 6:00 p.m., Alcona County Library, Harrisville. “Historical Railroads and Alpena Architecture,” by Ron Cady. How did the Railroads influence the architecture in Alpena? Find out some new historical insights with this program featuring vintage and contemporary images of Alcona County’s nearest “Big City.” Ron Cady is a retired English teacher who has a life-long interest in railroads, past and present. He enjoys rail travel, photography, and has written articles for magazines.

Tuesday, March 25, 2:00 p.m., Curtis Township Library, Glennie. Back by popular demand! “Made in the Mitten: Savoring Michigan’s Rich Agricultural & Foodie History (with food samples).” It’s amazing how many Michigan products are in the “top five” of the United States. Come hungry, and feast on Michigan deliciousness. Dianna Stampfler is a professional writer, broadcaster and public speaker. Her programs are lively and upbeat, providing an entertaining spin on historical elements of Michigan’s past, blended with pieces of the present, with an emphasis on preserving for the future. This Cabin Fever program is also supported by the Friends of Curtis Township Library.

Thursday, April 3, 6:00 p.m., Alcona County Library, Harrisville. “Ghost of the 1913 Storm: Discovery of the Steamer Hydrus,” by David Trotter. Since the Great Storm of 1913, the 436-foot steamship Hydrus had been lost in Lake Huron. It sank, most likely on Nov. 9 of that year, during a storm so ferocious it has been called the “White Hurricane.” This recently discovered ship is the last and greatest loss (on the U.S. side) from that Great Storm. David Trotter has been involved in Great Lakes Shipwrecks —searching, diving, exploring and documenting new discoveries for 40+ years. The solving of “history’s mysteries” has made significant contributions to the story of our Great Lakes and provided exploration opportunities for sport and technical divers to enjoy.

Thursday, May 15, 6:00 p.m., Alcona Township Hall, Black River. It’s the 50th Anniversary of the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald! Our favorite presenter, Ric Mixter, will present photo images, past and present, and rare underwater footage from his visit to the Fitz in 1994. Ric Mixter was awarded for 20 years of maritime preservation by the Association of Great Lakes Maritime History. He has produced over 30 shows on local history for PBS and the Outdoor Channel and has appeared on the History and Discovery Channel as a shipwreck expert. Energetic and animated, he has changed the way lecturers share history. Join us for a light meal and a brief annual meeting of the Alcona Historical Society, highlighting our plans for a great 2025 summer season, followed by this amazing program!