This year’s lineup includes journalist Ben Raines to discuss his acclaimed new book on the finding of the slave ship Clotilda, Alabama Folklife Association director Emily Blejwas presenting about her unique book on Alabama culture as revealed through its food traditions; travel writer Joe Cuhaj discussing his guides to discovering Alabama’s natural and cultural heritage; historian David Smithweck with his new book on the USS Tecumseh which was sunk by an underwater mine during the Battle of Mobile Bay; librarian and author Paula Webb to present her new book about legendary Mobile socialite Octavia LeVert; and writer in residence at the University of South Alabama Frye Gaillard and his co-author, educator Marti S. Rosner, to talk about their book on the remarkable life of the first African American from Alabama to serve in Congress.

During the day, Blakeley’s Delta Explorer will venture into the wild and scenic lower Delta for two, one and a half hour, cruises showcasing this amazing natural habitat. 

Admission to lectures and booksignings is FREE

Author presentation schedule:

12:00-12:30      Ben Raines

12:30-1:00        David Smithweck

1:00-1:30          Paula Webb

1:30-2:00          Joe Cuhaj

2:00-2:30          Frye Gaillard

2:30-3:00          Emily Blejwas

Cruise times: 12:45 and 2:45 PM; $25 for adults/$15 for kids ages 6-12.