River Heritage Museum events

Our theme for 2011 is "Cape Girardeau: From Trading Post to River City." New exhibits highlight the town's origins, its Civil War forts and the career of local media personality Don McNeely. Students from Southeast Missouri State University are refurbishing the exhibit on Marie and R.B. Oliver. Other new exhibits highlight World War II, Cherokee culture, steamboats and fire fighters.

Author Dr. Lawrence Breeze will be signing his book "From Farm to Front: An Innocent Goes to War 1942-1946" at a reception from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday. He will be here from noon to 1 p.m. Saturday to sign books. Breeze writes a compelling account of his experience in the 78th Division, the cold brutality of the Battle of the Bulge, and about the infantrymen who won World War II. Call to order at 334-0405.

We hope you and your friends will join us as we honor local authors, museum supporters and unveil a tribute in memory of our friend Kim McDowell. Kim lovingly tended the firefighters' garden for 20 years. The event -- "A Garden Party" -- is at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, May 22. Marjorie Thompson is putting the finishing touches on a pictorial history of our museum, volunteers and events.

An enjoyable way to support the museum and local artisans is to shop in our gift shop or our Curiosity Shop for books, gifts and unique items you can't find anywhere else.

The members of the museum's board of directors thank you for your past support and welcome your support in keeping the museum alive for the people of Southeast Missouri.

DR. JOHN HOLCOMB, president, Cape River Heritage Museum, Cape Girardeau