USS Arizona presentation August 17

On December 7, 1941, a dastardly act of war sank the U.S.S. Arizona, taking the lives of more than 1,100 men. "Remember Pearl Harbor" rallied America to win a war. This story begins more than 25 years earlier, when the Mayor of Nogales, Arizona fervently believed a battleship should be named after the newest state in the Union. This is also the tale about a young girl in Prescott, Arizona who was selected to christen the new ship. This presentation will identify and honor many individuals who were instrumental in the development of the Arizona, those who sailed on her and those who gave their lives. We will also visit the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial, a serene monument supported by many financial donations, including a major gift from Elvis Presley. Using rare photographs and meticulous research, this outstanding presentation will introduce you to the indomitable spirit of the mightiest ship at sea.

U.S.S. Arizona, Mightiest Ship at Sea, a presentation by Bill J. Harrison will be held at AZ Heritage Center on August 17, 2016 at 1:30-2:30 pm.
Cost: $5.00, $4.00 for AHS members. Book in advance at 480-929-0292. Does not include admission to the museum. Museum tour available following presentation for additional $8.00; book in advance.

Fred Harvey and the Harvey Hotels

Join us May 12 at the AZ Heritage Museum for
Fred Harvey and the Harvey Hotels of the Great Southwest, a presentation by Bill J. Harrison, "Arizona's Road Scholar"
1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Train travel could be dangerous to your health!  In the early 20th Century, rail travel was primitive at best: wooden bench seats, smoke-filled air, no food, no water, no bathrooms. When the train stopped in tiny towns for fuel and water, the unfortunate passengers had only railroad eating houses that served unsavory food of questionable quality.  There is a reason why the food was called “grub”, and the hotels along the way, “flea bags”.  All this changed dramatically with Fred Harvey, who helped to civilize the Wild West with his restaurants, hotels, and railroad dining cars. Join us for Bill Harrison’s presentation filled with exciting stories and amazing tales of Fred Harvey, the Harvey Girls, and the Harvey Hotels that still grandly serve travelers across the Southwest.
Cost: $5.00, $4.00 for AHS members. Book in advance at 480-929-0292. Does not include admission to the museum. Museum tour available following presentation for additional $8.00; book in advance.