Presentation of Award Followed by Talk from Honoree
Location: UNT Health Science Center, MET Building, 1000 Montgomery Street, Fort Worth, TX 76107
Dinner: 6 PM Program starts at 7 PM
Menu: Almond Crusted Tilapia, City Rice, Seasonal Vegetables and Dessert. Cost $13. RSVP to Jim Rosenthal by responding to this email or by calling or texting 817-307-9263)
Southwest Missouri was an ugly place during the Civil War. It was where brother fought brother and neighbor fought (and preyed upon) neighbor. The stories of guerillas operating in this region are numerous. But most of these are of Confederates. There were Union guerillas as well. The most important of these was John Kelso and this book is his first-hand account of his experiences. A former Methodist preacher and Missouri schoolteacher, he served as a Union army foot soldier, cavalry officer, guerilla fighter and spy. Kelso was a fearless and aggressive fighter who was driven by revenge after pro-Confederate neighbors stole his property, burned down his house and drove his family and friends from their homes.
Kelso’s account is carefully edited and annotated by Christopher Grasso. The book is well researched with good background on the people, places and events that are happening contemporaneously with the narrative. It is a fascinating story that provides much needed balance to the history of the conflict in Southwest Missouri and is a richly deserving recipient of the 2018 Pate Award.
Dr. Christopher Grasso received his PhD from Yale in 1992 and is Professor of History at William and Mary. His book will be available for purchase and signing at the event.