Battell Lecture to be Held

An upcoming event that focuses on the life of Colonel Joseph Battell will be held at the Vermont History Museum in Montpelier. Co-sponsored by the National Museum of the Morgan Horse (NMMH), the lecture "Joseph Battell of Middlebury: A Memorable Life, A Sad Death" will take place as part of its "Third Thursday" series on Thursday, February 16 at noon.

Joseph Battell, born in Middlebury in 1839, left a grand imprint on his town, county, and state. Farmer, land baron, Bread Loaf Innkeeper, Morgan horse breeder, newspaper publisher, State House gadfly, crusader for causes both noble and lost, Battell was the quintessential lonely man in a crowd. His fascinating life is appraised by author and Middlebury College senior lecturer David Howard Bain. Bain has taught creative writing at Middlebury College for nearly 30 years and his books include Empire Express: Building the First Transcontinental Railroad and Bitter Waters.

NMMH Museum Director, Amy Mincher, will be on hand to share some objects from the museum relating to Battell's connection to the Morgan breed.

The Vermont History Museum is located in the Pavilion Building at 109 State Street in Montpelier. For more information, go to www.vermonthistory.org.