Robert Kennicott: The Last Expedition

Des Plaines History Center Presents "Robert Kennicott: The Last Expedition" with Guest Speaker Steve Swanson of The Grove "Robert Kennicott: the Last Expedition" will be presented by the Des Plaines History Center on on Thursday, October 4, 2012, from 6 pm to 9 pm, at Casa Royale, 783 Lee Street in Des Plaines, IL. The program, will be presented by Steve Swanson of The Grove National Historic Landmark in Glenview.
You are cordially invited to hear the intriguing story of Robert Kennicott (1835-1866), who grew up at The Grove on present-day Milwaukee Avenue and who was one of nineteenth-century America’s most talented explorer-naturalists. Kennicott is perhaps best known for his role in the exploration of Alaska that eventually led to its purchase. Kennicott had a unique gift to observe and chronicle his natural surroundings. When Kennicott died suddenly in Alaska in 1866, his remains were returned to The Grove. His body was later moved to a site in Arlington Heights before being re-interred at The Grove in 1999. An autopsy was conducted prior to the re-interment by forensic anthropologist Dr. Doug Owsley of the Smithsonian Institution in the attempt to determine the cause of his death at the young age of 30. Photographs will accompany the presentation by Mr. Swanson.
Tickets are now available through the History Center at $25 per-person. No tickets will be sold at the door. The evening also includes a cash bar, hors d'oeurves, and silent auction.  The program will begin at 7:30 pm.  For reservations or sponsorship information, contact Shari at the Des Plaines History Center at 847-391-5399 by Wednesday, October 3.  Proceeds from the evening will benefit the History Center.