Discovering Women’s Automotive History in America’s Automotive Museums America’s automotive museums represent an untapped resource in the recovery of women’s automotive history. While at first glance museum exhibits appear to be overwhelmingly male-centric, women’s automotive participation is present if one knows where to look for it. Join independent scholar Chris Lezotte, as she calls upon […]
Join Ross Van Overberghe and Kate Himick from the Historic Preservation Commission of St. Joseph County as they delve into South Bend's rich history of house and structure relocation. While often associated with modern technology, the practice of moving houses has deep roots in South Bend and throughout the United States. This presentation will explore […]
Many “inventions” are simply solutions to the minor problems of everyday life. Such everyday problems persist over time, with technological changes allowing new generations to develop different solutions. But how new are they? Join Independent Exhibit Developer, Mary Seelhorst, as she romps through the pages of Popular Mechanics, and compares proposed solutions to some of life’s […]
In the early 19th century, Americans looked to canals for transportation. They carried people and goods over long distances with minimal power, and extended the benefits of water-born commerce from seaports to inland communities. Join The Henry Ford Museum's Curator of Transportation, Matt Anderson, as he recognizes the 200th anniversary of the completion of New York […]
The five Great Lakes make up the largest expanse of freshwater on earth. They are also five of the deadliest bodies of water that have sent 6,000-10,000 ships to a watery grave and caused the death of thousands of sailors and passengers. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the most famous Great Lakes shipwreck, […]
The Ian Fleming Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to promoting the legacy of Ian Fleming, is lucky enough to hold the largest private collection of official, on-screen James Bond vehicles in the country and each one has a unique story. Join Alan J. Porter, president of the Ian Fleming Foundation, for an inside look at this […]
Learn the story behind Studebaker's popular compact Lark from its 1959 introduction to the very last Studebaker built. Andy Beckman, Studebaker National Museum Archivist, will examine the Lark's design, development, and evolution through its multiple generations. Program highlights will also include Studebaker's high performance Lark models and post-Studebaker racing exploits. ABOUT SPEAKER SERIES The Studebaker Museum […]
This presentation explores Frank Lloyd Wright’s deep appreciation for the automobile as both a symbol of personal freedom and an extension of innovative design. Wright saw the rise of the automobile as a transformative force—one that enabled greater connection to the natural world while reflecting the same principles of form, function, and beauty that defined […]
From a deer-hair hook sold for a dime to a million-dollar enterprise that shipped lures to 26 countries, the South Bend Bait Company became one of the most successful fishing tackle manufacturers in the world... and one of South Bend's most fascinating lost businesses. Along the way, there were scandalous affairs, corporate betrayals, and plenty […]
During the California Gold Rush, five brothers—Henry, Clement, John Mohler, Peter Everst, and Jacob Franklin Studebaker—traveled west and built wealth, first as blacksmiths, and then by building wheelbarrows and wagons. In 1868, they formally united their enterprises as the Studebaker Brothers Manufacturing Company. Although their manufacturing operations were in South Bend, their primary market lay […]
As Americans mark the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026, communities across the country are reflecting on their history, identity, and future. In this presentation, Kyle Sater, Curator at the Studebaker National Museum, explores how earlier generations celebrated major national milestones—from the excitement of the Centennial Exposition in 1876 to the patriotic festivities surrounding the nation’s […]
Take a whirlwind journey through the history of the Studebaker Proving Ground, from its origins as a critical part of Studebaker’s automotive development process to the facility’s evolution after Studebaker’s departure. Studebaker National Museum Archivist Andy Beckman will highlight some of the most fascinating moments in the Proving Ground history, including the vehicles, testing, people, […]
