Celebrating John Henry

 

The myth of John Henry will be examined by a scholar, presented in an exhibit, and celebrated in story and song at the Main Library during November. From November 3 until the end of the month, the Library will be hosting an exhibit entitled, "John Henry: the Steel Drivin' Man", that was developed for, and is presented by, the West Virginia Humanities Council.

 

On Sunday, November 9 at 2:00 p.m. Dr. Scott Reynolds Nelson, author of the acclaimed book, Steel Drivin' Man: John Henry, the Untold Story of an American Legend, will visit the Library to recount the tale of the man famous for participating in a contest between man and machine. For over a century no one knew who the real John Henry was.

 

Dr. Nelson, Professor of History at the College of William and Mary, is a scholar of nineteenth century American and labor history who has researched this heroic figure and discovered the real man behind the legend. Dr. Nelson will share the fascinating results of his research with us.

 

It turns out that the Ballad of John Henry is the most recorded folk song in American history. On Monday, November 17 at 6:00 p.m. the Youth Services Department will explore the John Henry myth when the gifted storyteller and balladeer Jane Morse visits the Main Library. She will entertain children with her version of the John Henry story as well as other Appalachian folktales and songs.

 

These events are free and open to the public. For information about any of these programs call the Library at 304-528-5700. This program is made possible by the West Virginia Humanities Council.