Since 2020, I have worked with: Public Libraries; Retirement Groups; Continuing Education Groups; Historical Societies, Churches, Community Education Programs; and various Associations. I am available to speak year-around: Morning | Afternoon | Evening and am willing to travel.
Programs are 60 minutes in length and include time for Q&A.
Presentations can be In-Person, or on-line.
Scheduled Presentations:
August 12: Crow River Senior Center, "Fading Ads Of The Twin Cities" 10:30am.
August 18: Buffalo Community Center, "One Last Time Veteran Stories P.1" 6:00pm.
August 19: Presbyterian Homes Norris Square Cottage Grove, "Barn Storming: Minnesota's Barns & Barn Quilts" 1:30pm.
August 22: Sibley Historic Site, Mendota After Hours, "Fading Ads Of The Twin Cities" 6:00pm.
September 4: Ebenezer Ridges, "A Road Trip Around Minnesota" 2:30pm.
September 10: Elk River Senior Center, "Ghost Signs & Grain Bins: A Look At Minnesota's Farming Heritage" 10:30am.
September 11: Edina Senior Center, "Fading Ads Of The Twin Cities" 11:00am.
September 23: Country Manor Campus, " Ghost Signs & Grain Bins: A Look At Minnesota's Farming Heritage" 10:00am.
September 29: Roseau Public Library, "Ghost Signs & Grain Bins: A Look At Minnesota's Farming Heritage" 2:00pm.
September 29: Warroad Public Library, "Ghost Signs & Grain Bins: A Look At Minnesota's Farming Heritage" 5:00pm.
September 30: Godel Memorial Library (Warren), "Ghost Signs & Grain Bins: A Look At Minnesota's Farming Heritage" 2:00pm.
September 30: Thief River Falls Public Library, "Ghost Signs & Grain Bins: A Look At Minnesota's Farming Heritage" 5:00pm.
October 7: Edina Senior Center, "A Road Trip Around Minnesota: Lakes & Waterfalls" 10:00am.
October 21: White Bear Lake Seniors & Partners, "Minnesota's Ties To Early American History" 10:00am.
October 27: S.A.L.T. Group, "Ghost Signs & Grain Bins" 11:00am.
November 6: Crow River Senior Center, Topic TBD. 10:30am.
November 10: Edina Senior Center, "A Road Trip Around Minnesota: Veteran Memorials" 10:00am.
November 11: Sterling Pointe Senior Living, "A Road Trip Around Minnesota: Veterans Memorials" 10:30am.
November 11: Guardian Angels Care Center, "A Road Trip Around Minnesota: Veterans Memorials" 3:30pm.
November 14: St. Benedict's Community, "One Last Time: WWII Veteran Stories P. 1" 1:30pm.
December 2: Edina Senior Center, "Ghost Signs & Grain Bins: Minnesota's Farming Heritage" 10:00am.
Recent Clients: Arrowhead Library System (23 location tour); Elk River Senior Center (2); Grey Eagle Public Library; Chippewa County Historical Society; SALT Group Burnsville; Park Rapids Library; Stevens County Historical Society; Wadena Historical Society; Edina Historical Society; Northern Exposures Photo Club; Marshall Public Library; Slayton Public Library; Tyler Public Library; Minnesota Veterans Home (2); Buffalo Public Library/Wright County History Center; Aurora Public Library/Friends of the Library; Paynesville Public Library; Belgrade Public Library; Stillwater Public Library; Pilgrim House Unitarian Universalist Church; Fremont Village Senior Living; Lake Agassiz Regional Library (6 location tour.); Rochester Public Library; Sterling Pointe Senior Living; Westminster Church "The Magnet" 55+ Group; Medelia Public Library; St. James Public Library; Butterfield Public Library; RAMS Group; Shorewood Landing; The Sanctuary; St. Peter Senior Center x 2; Norris Square Presbyterian Homes; Hutchinson Public Library; Willmar Public Library.
Veterans Programs
One Last Time: Veteran Stories From The Greatest Generation. Part One.
Members of the Greatest Generation are leaving us at an alarming rate, taking with them invaluable stories of courage, sacrifice, and resilience. Photographer, Author, and Amateur Historian, Jay Grammond spent 13 years planning and leading a WWII History Series in Elk River, during which he had the privilege of getting to know many individuals who lived through this pivotal time in history. From Holocaust, and Japanese-American internment camp survivors to Homefront Workers, Allied POWs, Veterans from all branches and theaters of war - even a German soldier who fought the whole war on the Eastern Front - each person shared a unique and powerful perspective. In this presentation, Jay will honor the memory of those who participated in his series and are sadly no longer with us. One Veteran even stated, “This will probably be my last time telling this story.” Don’t miss this opportunity to gain a unique and personal insight into the lives of these remarkable individuals. Whether you're new to the topic or have a deep appreciation for WWII history, this presentation will leave a lasting impact. Plus, be sure to join us for Part Two another time, when we'll explore even more stories from those who served and sacrificed.
One Last Time: Veteran Stories From The Greatest Generation. Part Two.
Due to overwhelming interest in Part One, our presenter, Jay Grammond has created a Part Two in order to continue sharing more powerful stories from WWII Veterans and civilians who experienced the war firsthand. Whether you have attended Part One or are joining us for the first time, this session stands on its own while offering a deeper look into the personal accounts of those who served, sacrificed, and endured during one of the most pivotal times in history. Jay Grammond will share additional firsthand accounts from Veterans, home front workers, and others whose experiences shed light on the war's lasting impact. Each story provides a unique perspective, honoring the memory of those who lived it. No prior attendance is required - come with a desire to learn and pay tribute to these incredible individuals. However, if you can, we encourage you to experience Part One another time for the fullest picture of their extraordinary lives.
A Road Trip Around Minnesota: Veteran Memorials
Minnesota is home to a remarkable array of Veteran Memorials - each with its own story and significance. From street names to granite monuments to powerful statues and unique tributes, these memorials honor the bravery and sacrifice of our servicemen and women in meaningful ways. Join historian, photographer, and military history program organizer Jay Grammond as he takes you on a virtual road trip around the state, showcasing some of the most inspiring memorials he has encountered in his travels. Discover hidden gems and well-known landmarks that pay tribute to veterans from war and peace time across the ages. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a proud supporter of our military, or simply curious about these powerful symbols of remembrance, this presentation will offer valuable insights and inspiration. Why not start planning a road trip of your own to visit these sites and experience their impact firsthand?
Minnesota's Ties To Early American History
Join us as Minnesota historian, Jay Grammond, delivers a captivating presentation that delves into the often over-looked contributions of Minnesota to early American history. Minnesota has a rich and multifaceted history that connects it to pivotal events in the nation's past. This presentation sheds light on Minnesota's ties to the Revolutionary War; the War of 1812; the Indian Wars; the Mexican War; and the Civil War showcasing how this northern state played a significant role in shaping America's destiny. Don't miss an opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of Minnesota's ties to early American history.
NEW! Under Development. The Eastern Front To The Northern Prairie: Union Veterans Who Came To Minnesota.
Photography Topics
Fading Ads Of The Twin Cities
Do you remember seeing those old painted ads on the sides of buildings for Coca-Cola, Grain Belt Beer, grocery stores, warehouses, etc. Our instructor, Jay Grammond has been drawn to Fading Ads, or “Ghost Signs” for quite some time. In the Summer of 2020, that interest became so much more when he signed a book deal to publish a book about the topic. Join Jay as he takes you on a virtual walk around the Twin Cities to view this sort of “Art Gallery” that surrounds us. You will also learn a bit about the history of some of these companies that date back into the 1800’s.
NEW! Under Development. A Road Trip Around Minnesota: Ghost Signs
Backyard Photography/Winter: A "Cure" For Cabin Fever
Join Professional Photographer, Jay Grammond as he leads us on a photographic journey of possibilities that will get you out of the house and into your own yard, or local park. You will learn to see and compose creatively; how to create or look for great backgrounds; what subjects to focus on; and helpful Apps and Resources that could help you create your best images yet!
NEW! Under Development. "Detour Minnesota" Series
Beyond The North Shore: Iron, Timber & Tales Of Northeast Minnesota.
Prairies, Posts & Lost Trails Of Minnesota's Northwest.
Heart Of The Heartland: Central Minnesota's Churches,
River Towns, And Backroads.
Rails, Depots, And Small Towns Of West Central Minnesota.
Wind, Prairie, And Stone In Southwest Minnesota.
History, Bluffs, And Driftless Detours In Southeast Minnesota.
Bridges, Signs, And Hidden Stories Of The Twin Cities Metro.
History etc!
A Road Trip Around Minnesota: Minnesota Barn Quilt Trails
Minnesota is fortunate to have several Barn Quilt Trails. Pieces of art that adorn the side of barns and buildings throughout the state are set up to not only pay homage to heritage or interests; but to bring people into an area. Instructor Jay Grammond will lead you around the state through seven Barn Quilt Trails to give you a sampling of what is out there in hopes that you will make your own road trip!
A Road Trip Around Minnesota: Lakes & Waterfalls
Raise your hand if you are ready to take a day or weekend Road Trip around the State! We could almost feel the breeze from all the hands shooting up! Join Professional Photographer, Jay Grammond as he takes you on a Virtual Road Trip around the state to learn about some of Minnesota’s largest in-land lakes; and fantastic waterfalls. In today’s world, these same waterways are vital to the State and local community economies; as well as to the citizens as a form of recreation and relaxation. After participating in this class, you should come away with the seeds of your own road trip ideas planted for a fun road trip.
NEW! Ghost Signs and Grain Bins: A Look At Minnesota's
Farming Heritage.
Step into the fading paint and rusted tin of Minnesota's agricultural past in this visually rich and story-filled presentation. Ghost Signs & Grain Bins uncovers the once-bold advertisements that graced barns, brick walls, silos, and grain bins - remnants of a time when agricultural branding was as rooted in the land as the crops it helped grow. We'll explore historic Minnesota farms, honor a few trailblazing ag pioneers, and journey through the state's most iconic grain elevators and farmstead bins. Whether you walked these fields or grew up near a co-op, this talk promises a nostalgic look back at the signs, symbols, and stories that shaped Minnesota's rural landscape.
Whispers In The Dirt: Discoveries Of Everyday History
Through Metal Detecting
When you were a child, did you dream of discovering lost treasure? Our instructor sure did. He once wanted to become an Archaeologist after seeing King Tut’s Tomb! The fact of the matter is that we all walk over lost items, and maybe even “treasures” every day. Join our instructor, Jay as he shares with you some of the items that he has found through his hobby of Metal Detecting that had been quite possibly lost to time. We’ll take a virtual walk back in time through viewing interesting discoveries.
NEW! Under Development. Roadside Americana:
Minnesota's Neon Glow, Fiberglass Giants, And Roadside Treasures
Barn Storming: Minnesota's Barn's & Barn Quilts
Minnesota is filled with countless numbers of Barns, most from a bygone era. However, there are still a bunch in operation as well. Professional Photographer and Amateur Historian, Jay Grammond has traveled the state capturing images of barns of all shapes, sizes, and conditions. There is just something about a barn! There are some areas of the State where the barns are adorned with something called a Barn Quilt. Barn Quilts are pieces of art on the side of a barn, shed, or house that usually tell some sort of story. These places are all visible from the roadways, so once you know about them, you can go check them out!
