Free lecture focuses on civil liberties

Amos Pinchot, as part of community ‘Big Read’ MILFORD — Amos Pinchot, considered by many to be one of the most radical and liberal thinkers of the Progressive era, will be the topic of discussion at a free lecture on Saturday, May 8, 2010, at his family home, Grey Towers National Historic Site, 122 Old Owego Turnpike, Milford. The program, which will begin at 5:30 p.m., will draw some parallels to the famous novel “To Kill A Mockingbird,” which is the subject of the community-wide Big Read program. Many people are familiar with Amos’ older brother Gifford Pinchot, founder and first chief of the US Forest Service and two-term governor of Pennsylvania. Less is known of Amos’ life and his own accomplishments, as well as his role in his brother’s career. Co-sponsored by the Pike County Public Library, the program will highlight some of Amos Pinchot’s many societal contributions, including his role in the creation of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and his lifelong battle to protect civil liberties, also a core theme of “To Kill a Mockingbird.” The program is free and may be held outdoors, so dress appropriately for cooler temperatures. For more information call 570-296-9630.