Spotlight Series: ‘Benefactors of Posterity: The Founding Era of the Filson Historical Society 1884-1899’ with Daniel Gifford

Thursday, August 7, 2025
7:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Founded in 1884 and named after John Filson (1753-1788), Kentucky’s first historian, the Filson Historical Society collects, preserves and publishes historical material pertaining to Kentucky and adjoining states. The collections of books, manuscripts, art, photographs and artifacts are available to everyone.

In his new book, Benefactors of Posterity: The Founding Era of the Filson Historical Society 1884-1899, Daniel Gifford, author and public historian, writes about this society to celebrate its 140th anniversary while simultaneously recognizing how the decisions made by it have been marred by systematic racism and Jim Crow culture.

Gifford’s career focuses on both academic and public history, with a concentration on American popular and visual culture and museums in American culture. He also spent several years with the Smithsonian Institute. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Filson Historical Society in Louisville, KY, and teaches as an adjunct professor for the University of Louisville’s History Department.

A book sale and signing will follow the presentation.

Please note any accommodation requests in the Special Needs section of the registration form.

If you have any questions, please contact Shannon at sdevlin@cc-pl.org.

Newport Branch