June 2, 2024 – Mariposa County Library announces local educator and artist Shirley Spencer to lead discussion about the women who influenced John Muir and his life in July.

The Wawona Bassett Memorial Library will be hosting a discussion led by local educator and artist Shirley Spencer in July. The discussion centers around the women in John Muir's life and how they influenced him.

The life and work of Muir was inspired and enhanced due to a number of women that played enormous roles during various chapters of his life. These women were crucial to Muir and his role with them as son, mentee, husband, and father. Five women take the stage: one as tender and kind mother, one as mentor and advisor, one as supporting and encouraging wife and two beloved daughters. We will explore Ann Gilrye Muir, kind and nurturing mother, and the nearly life-long influence of Jeanne Carr, the wife of Muir’s professor, Dr. Ezra Carr. Also, we will discuss Louie Strentzel, his devoted and supportive wife, and Wanda Muir and Helen Muir, his loving and spirited daughters. We will consider the Muir: influential preservationist, author, naturalist, and explorer, and five of the women who shared, shaped, and enriched his life.

There have been some negative findings related to Muir's life. Muir is not the focus of the presentation, but rather we examine the women who influenced him and his life.

This will be held Wednesday, July 10 from 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. at 7971 Chilnualna Falls Road in Wawona.

Registration is required and space is limited. Call (209) 375-6510 to sign up.

Source: Mariposa County Library