Redmond Historical Society - "Saturday Speaker Series" Events

Old Redmond Schoolhouse Community Center houses
 the Redmond Historical Society office and artifact depository

For those citizens lucky enough to sit in on a Redmond Historical Society (RHS) Saturday Speaker series program they might describe their experience "an awakening" to the treasure trove of Redmond history. 

Some past series were:  two presentations by retired Park and Recreation Director John Couch, one that focused on Recreation; the turkey farming industry  and moonshine operations.  I especially liked  Evergreen Hospital Chair Al DeYoung's story on the lumber business and a recent "Redmond Space District" presentation.  

You don't just see lots of brown & white stills at Series events. Years ago, co-founder Miguel Llanos weaved a rich fabric of multi- media into the Series. Today, the Series is a mix of live and remote presentations published on YouTube.

Miguel was jack-of-all-trades playing a role in writing and editing the society newsletter with honorable Naomi Hardy.  Nao created the society's foundation with her history recordings and zest for people.  She coined the phase "History is happening," Mayor Marchione  recognized her contributions with a tiny park and kiosk on the corner of Leary and Redmond Way!

Some background:

The honorable Mayor Chris Himes (1980 - 1984) stands out as the most influential and dedicated co-founder.  Mayor Rosemary Ives cum laud, and Judy Lang played big roles.  I'm not sure John Couch is a co-founder. I do know he's doing invaluable work digitalizing the "Sammamish Valley News." I like to remember Doris Scheibel.  She wasn't a co-founder, but a longtime member and Chair of RHS Community Relations; known for her work as City Clerk to four Redmond mayors,1969-1995.

John Oftebro is the current President of RHS and continuing the tradition of the Saturday Speaker series. He re-developed Redmond's museum and is moving the society to the Redmond's Senior & Community Center.  More on John later!

-- Story / opinion / photo by Bob Yoder, 3/29/2007, edited and updated 5/10/20/24