History Days in Washington, Missouri

Have you recently participated in a zither event, or know where the history of the zither can be experienced firsthand? Share your experiences here.

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History Days in Washington, Missouri

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The Washington Historical Society in Washington, Missouri, recently held its annual "History Days," giving local youths the opportunity to learn about the unique history of their community. George Bocklage, a presenter at this event, kindly provided the following report.

"On May 10 and 11 the Education committee of the Washington (MO) Historical Society held the 3rd annual History Days for the area's fourth grade students. Six schools and 214 children participated.

Local history, including that of the Franz Schwarzer zither factory, was taught to the students at five stations in and outside the museum. Jan Eade and George Bocklage told the story of Schwarzer's 19th century prominence as the "King of Zithers," having won the gold medal with his exhibits at the 1873 World's Fair in Vienna.

With zither music in the background, the children were able to examine one of Franz Schwarzer's instruments and learn of his pet alligator, the banana trees in his private park, his role in organizing the local Liederkranz and in heading the town's fire brigade.

At other stations, they learned of the founding of the town, the corn cob pipe factory, the Civil War in Missouri and saw the antique fire trucks and exhibits about veterans of World War I and II.

The museum is free and open to the public every day but Monday except for a hiatus starting just before Christmas and reopening the 1st of March."


For more information on the Washington (MO) Historical Society, the museum and Franz Schwarzer exhibit, visit their web site at the following link:

http://washmohistorical.org/
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George Bocklage presenting the life and work of Franz Schwarzer, Missouri's famed zither maker.
George Bocklage presenting the life and work of Franz Schwarzer, Missouri's famed zither maker.
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