Brian L. Alvis, guest speaker
The Williamson County Historical Society held its first quarterly meeting on January 26th, 2020 at 2 P.M. at the society’s museum and library located at 105 S. Van Buren St. in Marion. President, Sam Lattuca, reported recent and ongoing projects to the membership and revealed a number of recently restored historical objects that have now been placed on display at the museum. An historical marker for the Creal Springs turn of the century resort business is planned in March with a date yet to be announced and a military marker placed at the grave of revolutionary war veteran John Ellis will be dedicated in June. Lattuca presented a number of historical artifacts that belong to the museum and some details about their use and origins.
The speaker for the event was Brian L. Alvis and his photographer wife, Robbie Edwards. Brian and Robbie operate a Mt. Vernon photography business and recently completed publication of a book entitled, “Bootlegger.” The book weaves local Southern Illinois bootlegging history and gang activity into a fictional account inspired by stories based on local lore. Brian and Robbie spent considerable time rounding up musicians, enactors and genuine artifacts from the 1920’s to visually portray the events that unfold in the book.