History professor to speak Feb. 22 on ‘American Indians in the Civil War’

The Marathon County Historical Society presents “American Indians in the Civil War,” another topic in the History Speaks series, at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22, at the Woodson History Center, 410 Mc-Indoe St., Wausau.

In this presentation, Professor Brett Barker will explore the role native peoples played in the Civil War. From battlefi eld to diplomacy to the long struggle for control of the American West, American Indians appeared in many significant and rarely mentioned aspects of the conflict. Join Professor Barker as he reveals the intriguing intersections between two of his favorite historical topics.

Dr. Brett Barker is professor of history at UW-Stevens Point at Wausau, where he has taught since 2002. A member of the Historical Society’s Board of Directors, his teaching interests include the history of the Civil War, American Indians, Wisconsin and the Midwest.

There is no admission fee; however, donations are appreciated. Registration is not required.

Janke Book Store and Compass Properties are sponsors of the History Speaks series.

Visitors might also enjoy a guided tour of the Yawkey House Museum, or visiting the museum’s free exhibit spaces.

“Milking Time: Evolution of the Dairy Industry in Marathon County,” shows the hard work that went into creating fields after forests were logged off, and the progress made in breeding, testing, medicine and education that enabled dairying to develop into a viable business option.

“Our Stories: The History of Marathon County” features reminiscences of how people arrived in this area, and how they worked and played in days gone by.

For more information, call the Marathon County Historical Society at 715842-5750.