18th-Annual Henry Farnam Evening at St. Ambrose University's Rogalski Center -- March 26.
Thursday, March 26, 5 p.m.
St. Ambrose University's Rogalski Center, 518 West Locust Street, Davenport IA
Hosted by Davenport's River Action and named in honor of Henry W. Farnam, the chief builder of the Chicago & Rock Island Railroad, the Quad Cities' Farnam Evenings are annual tributes to historically significant citizens and events. This year's 18th-annual celebration – taking place at St. Ambrose University's Rogalski Center on March 26 – will will celebrate regional history, innovation, and the legacy of influential figures who shaped the Quad Cities and American agriculture.
Since its founding in 2004, the annual the Henry Farnam Evenings have honored the historical legacy and lasting influence of Henry Farnam and other pioneers who helped shape the economic and cultural development of the Mississippi River region. These special events have long been hosted by River Action, the Davenport-based nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering the environmental, economic, and cultural vitality of the Mississippi River and its riverfront through education, advocacy, and community engagement.
At the 18th-Annual Henry Farnam Evening, the evening’s program begins at 6 p.m. with special guests highlighting the historical development of industry, water power, and cultural heritage in the region. Following the opening remarks, acknowledgments, and ceremonial toast by George Eaton, attendees will be treated to presentations by:
Neil Dahlstrom, Heritage Marketing and Archives Manager at John Deere, presenting “John Deere and the Development of American Agriculture.” Dahlstrom, an archivist, researcher, and author of multiple books – including Tractor Wars – will explore four key eras of Deere’s growth from the 1830s through the late 1990s.
Patrick Allie, Director of the Rock Island Arsenal Museum, discussing “The Development of Water Power in the QCA, 1820–1862,” and its role in influencing John Deere’s decision to establish operations in Moline.
Dale G Haake, former Quad Cities Area poet laureate, presenting a dedicated reading of “A Grand Detour.”
The 18th Annual Henry Farnam Evening will take place at St. Ambrose University's Rogalski Center on March 26, with the 5 p.m. doors featuring heavy hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar, displays, and a raffle. Tickets for the 6 p.m. program and the hors d’oeuvres is set at $35 per person, with a reserved table of six $180 per group. For more information and reservations, call (563)322-2969 and visit RiverAction.org/HenryFarnam.
