First Tuesday Pub Talks: From Gold Mines to Woodland Trails

The Jacksonville Woodlands Natural Park and Trail system is the most successful small-town, all volunteer, conservation project in Oregon. These historic woodlands provide the scenic backdrop that surrounds 70% of the town’s National Historic Landmark district. Larry Smith, semi-retired elementary schoolteacher, is the guest speaker at the June First Tuesdays Pub Talk at the Four Daughters Irish Pub in Medford. Larry will share the story of how Jacksonville citizens banded together 30 years ago to preserve the historic Woodland Trails. He’ll also tell the captivating story of how a group of Jacksonville fifth graders gained national attention for their efforts to help protect Jacksonville’s natural and cultural heritage, resulting in a $1.5 million gift to the people of Jacksonville. The June 4 First Tuesday Pub talk begins at 7 p.m., upstairs at the Four Daughters Irish Pub, 126 West Main, in Medford. Tuesday Pub talks are a series of monthly historical talks held the first Tuesday of the month at the Pub. The talks, sponsored by the Southern Oregon Historical Society, are free and last approximately an hour, with ample time for questions and discussion afterwards.