Norfolk, VA - Whether it is a critical local issue like sea level rise or the exploration of Hampton Roads history, the latest Brinkley Family Memorial Lecture Series presents stories about passionate people with determination and grit. The second lecture in the series will take place at Slover Library on November 18, 2021, 5:30 p.m. -7:30 p.m., featuring local authors Karla Smith and Larry Saint.
They will discuss their 2018 pictorial history book, Screwpiles: The Forgotten Lighthouses.
The Chesapeake Bay is home to more screwpile lighthouses than anywhere else in the world, although they originated in England. These lighthouses are built on piles that are screwed into the mud or sand and have safely guided mariners in the U.S. starting in 1875. New technology led to their demise in the 1930s. Two of the three authors of the book will discuss everything from the construction of the structures to the rigorous life of the keepers, to the role of lighthouses in American history and navigation of our waterways. A Nansemond River lighthouse model and an eight-day post lantern will be on display.
Now in its third year, Slover Library’s lecture series has honored Catherine “Kate” Lee Brinkley, a professional librarian at the City of Norfolk’s Kirn Memorial Library. She loved people and was dedicated to educating the citizens of Norfolk through the many services and programs of the Norfolk Public Library system. After the death of her son, Ned, in 2020 the series was renamed to honor the Brinkley family. The series brings authors to Norfolk to keep the spirit of community discourse about current events alive and to celebrate recently published books of national acclaim. Each lecture is free and open to the public. The evening begins with light refreshments and ends with a book signing. Visit SloverLibrary.com/Brinkley.
Next up in the series: