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Friends of Willard Library Annual Lecture
November 6, 2023 @ 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Join Us for the Friends of Willard Library Annual Lecture
Date: Monday, November 6, 2023
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: Browning Gallery, Willard Public Library (Lower Level)
The Friends of Willard Library cordially invite you to the Annual Lecture in the Browning Gallery at Willard Public Library on Monday, November 6, 2023, at 6:30 PM. This cherished event, open to the public at no cost, offers a unique opportunity for patrons and the community to come together and discover the fascinating history of Evansville during the Prohibition Era. The Friends of Willard Library, established in 1972, work tirelessly to support the library’s mission and enrich the local community by providing volunteer service, financial assistance, and cultural programs.
Membership in the Friends of Willard Library plays a crucial role in securing special equipment and furnishings, sustaining the library’s historical restoration efforts, expanding the library’s collections, and ensuring your active involvement in library programs and events. Additionally, the Friends of Willard Library proudly organize the highly-anticipated Annual Book Sale and the Better Books Sale.
This year’s lecture: “Wide Open Evansville: Prohibition Era”
Presented by Erick Jones
Join us for an engaging exploration of the Prohibition Era in Evansville with Erik Jones, author of “Wide Open Evansville.” What started as a genealogy search evolved into an in-depth examination of a captivating period in Evansville’s history. While Indiana enforced prohibition, neighboring Kentucky, just across the Ohio River, did not. Evansville, a brewery town with a strong German cultural influence, faced a unique struggle during this time. The city gained notoriety for being “wide open” as it grappled with liquor-related challenges. One of the most significant incidents was the prosecution of Evansville’s Chief of Police, Edgar Schmitt, in the 1920 Evansville whiskey ring conspiracy.
About the Author: Erick Jones
Erick Jones, the great-grandson of Evansville, Indiana Police Captain Andy Friedle, brings his family’s rich history to life through his debut book, “Wide Open Evansville.” This book is the result of several years of meticulous research and offers a sensational, detailed account of the 1920 whiskey ring conspiracy. Erick’s family ties to prohibition go beyond his great-grandfather; he is also the great-grandson of former Vanderburgh County sheriff’s deputy Jesse Jones, who later became a federal prohibition agent. Despite residing in Ohio now, Erick holds fond memories of spending his summers as a child with his grandparents in Evansville.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to delve into Evansville’s captivating past during the Prohibition Era with Erick Jones as your guide. This event promises to be an enlightening and engaging evening, and we look forward to welcoming you at the Browning Gallery in Willard Public Library. Join us in uncovering the hidden history of Evansville!