ESCANABA — In conjunction with the exhibition Visions of American Life: Paintings from the Manoogian Collection, 1850-1940, on display now at the Bonifas Arts Center, the Delta County Historical Society will host two presentations in the studio space of the Bonifas Arts Center on May 7 and May 21, both at 7 p.m. Both presenters will provide insight into varying decades of life in Delta County, thus offering parallels to the three central themes in the Visions of American Life exhibit: American History Revisited, America at Home, and America Outside.

Bernie Schultz Collection – presented by Rich Anzalone

On May at 7 p.m., Rich Anzalone presents a selection of historic photographs, taken from the collection of former Escanaba Daily Press photographer Bernie Schultz. Schultz began his work with the Daily Press in the late 1930s and continued until his retirement in the early 1970s.

These photographs, many of which were published in the Daily Press, serve as visual remembrances, reflecting on individuals, life, businesses, and the memories of the Delta County area.

Anzalone has dedicated a number of hours to searching through the Bernie Schultz negatives collection housed in the DCHS Archives, identifying the people, places and events in the photographs, and sharing their stories. These well-received presentations are often offered through the Delta County Historical Society Winter Outreach Programs, and those who wish to learn more can visit the Museum Archives at the Delta County Historical Society to view see previous programs.

The Role of Women in Delta County History – presented by Karen Lindquist

On May 21 at 7 p.m., Karen Lindquist’s program covers some of the hardships that faced Delta County women during the early years of local history. The illustrated talk will have examples of a number of exceptional women who made lasting contributions to their communities, from the first woman elected to public office in Delta County, to the role of the courageous suffragettes who helped win the vote, to three women entrepreneurs who managed one of the largest farms in the county, and at least one example of a woman who made contributions to the artistic life of the area.

Karen Lindquist, a retired library director, is a board member and volunteer at the Delta County Historical Society. Her area of interest is the archives where she volunteers as an archivist, helping to organize and manage the collection of historical material. Her special interest is historic photographs and what they can tell us about our history.

These presentations are free and open to the public.