The Thomasville History Center and The Bookshelf are honored to welcome Secretary Emeritus of the Smithsonian Institution G. Wayne Clough on Thursday, January 16 at 7 p.m. for a free lecture and signing of his newest book, “Things New & Strange: A Southerner’s Journey through the Smithsonian Collections” at the History Center.  

Released in May by the University of Georgia Press, “Things New & Strange” chronicles Clough’s investigation into the Smithsonian’s collections for connections to South Georgia following his retirement. The objects and documents he encountered reflect important aspects of southern culture and history, document the evolution of the region over time and led to reminiscences of his youth in South Georgia. Proceeds from the sale of this book will benefit the Smithsonian Institution.

Clough will share his observations and discoveries in a free lecture prior to the signing. Attendees are not required to register, but those who would like to reserve a copy of “Things New & Strange” should contact the History Center at (229) 226-7664 or history@rose.net in advance. The Bookshelf will complete all transactions the night of the program and the books will be $37.40. The Thomasville History Center is located at 725 N. Dawson Street and parking is available on Dawson Street.

Clough is Secretary Emeritus of the Smithsonian Institution. Clough, who currently lives in Atlanta, directed the Smithsonian from 2008-14, and was president of the Georgia Institute of Technology from 1994-2008. He is the author of “Seeing the Universe from Here: Field Notes from My Smithsonian Travels.”

The Bookshelf is downtown Thomasville’s very own independent bookstore, offering a highly curated collection of literature across a wide variety of genres. Each month, the store hosts over a dozen story times, author events, educational workshops, and more; information about these events can be found on Instagram and Facebook, or through The Bookshelf’s weekly podcast, “From the Front Porch.”

The Thomasville History Center was formed in 1952 and opened a museum within the Flowers-Roberts House in 1972.  Since 1972, the Thomasville History Center’s collections have grown to include more than 500,000 artifacts and archival materials and eight historic structures. The History Center, in partnership with the state of Georgia, also operates the historic Lapham-Patterson House. Its board, staff, and growing membership invite you to join them in their mission to enrich the community through the exploration and discovery of its history, people, and stories.