Brown Bag Lunch: The West—Past and Present, Myth, and Reality
The Irish writer Billy O’Callaghan, who thanks to an almost certainly excessive lifelong diet of novels, movies, and television, retains an abiding fascination for all things Western-related, and Montana writer Darby Minow Smith, whose family has ranched in Boulder for generations, will get together for what is sure to be a lively discussion on the West, both bygone and as it is today. They’ll discuss what gives the West its aura, and compare and contrast the mythical cowboys of O’Callaghan’s childhood with the living, breathing ones in Butte’s backyard.
For more information call: 406-782-3280
Brown Bag Lunch: Discretion Series
Beginning just after the Battle of the Little Big Horn, the “Discretion” series delves into underexposed and accurate history of the American West, founded in aggressive 19th century political policies inspired by manifest destiny and intended to destroy Native American cultures and people.
The Discretion Series is an accumulation of engaging stories intended to challenge pre-existing cultural and historical generalizations, especially regarding American Indian peoples. While intended to educate as well as entertain, these novels are eminently provocative, comprehensively researched and woven into the fabric of the 19th century West, populated by authentic historical figures, compelling events and vivid landscapes. The reader becomes immersed in the language, daily existence and predominant societal perspectives of the waning days of the American West.
Most importantly, Native American cultures and languages are respectfully portrayed throughout the series via the author’s own indigenous worldview, personal experience, accurate research and consultation with mentors from specific tribal nations.
About the Speaker
Juliana “Hoolihan” Clayton is an indigenous woman of Turtle Island (First Nations Plains Cree/Nehiyawak) who was adopted by a white family and raised on a cattle ranch in Wyoming. She has lived and worked with Native Americans and cowboys throughout the West during her years as a ranch hand and wildland firefighter. With a degree in history and education from the University of Montana, it has long been her goal to create a series of entertaining novels that are rife with impeccable research, unflinching veracity and forthright cultural perspectives on American history.
For more information call: 406-782-3280