Once again the program committee put together a wonderful assortment of panels and roundtable discussions for the conference. Topics ranged the gambit from tourism, to the fur trade, to the environment, to a discussion on the roles reenactors play in the interpretation of Western history. Most sessions attracted 25-40 people, and five drew over 70. The National Park Service Round Table: “Clash of Cultures—Trials Associated with U.S. Army—American Indian Campaigns in the Trans-Mississippi West,” was especially well attended, drawing over 150.
At the Presidential Luncheon on Friday, James Ronda entertained all with his thoughtful and humorous reassessment of Lewis and Clark in his speech “Counting Cats in Zanzibar.” The following evening, novelist Stephen Harrigan addressed the annual banquet and pondered the question “Historical Fiction or Historical Falsehood?” as he discussed the controversial death of Davy Crockett at the Alamo and its many depictions in books since 1836. Keeping with tradition, Sam Arnold presented Elliott West his Green River Knife plaque signaling the start of his presidential term. President West, and the other attendees, then joined Arnold for the Mountain Man toast to officially close the evening’s festivities.
James Ronda and Paul Hutton in San Diego.
Chuck Rankin looks on approvingly as President James Ronda gives his luncheon address.
James Ronda with banquet speaker Stephen Harrigan.
John Faragher accepts the Caughey Prize.