Over 200 years ago, Ferdinand Rozier and John James Audubon embarked on a journey from their hometown in France that brought them to Ste. Genevieve, MO.
Carolyn Bach, who has been researching the duo for 15 years, brought their story to life in a brand new exhibit at the museum—Partners in Business, Friends for Life.
Ribbon cutting for the exhibit was held during the Rozier-Audubon Days celebration, April 12 and 13, and sponsored by Audubon Restaurant. At right, researchers for the exhibit, Carolyn Bach and Tom Greminger, pose at exhibit.
Following the ribbon cutting on April 12th, Carolyn gave an hour-long presentation on how their paths continued to cross throughout their lives.
She also talked about the box of Audubon birds that were displayed in the museum’s old location, and now are the centerpiece of the Partners in Business, Friends for Life exhibit.
On Saturday, April 13th, the celebration continued with speaker presentations throughout the day.
James Duncan, an accomplished historic gunsmith specializing in 18th century American Indian trade guns, talked about the guns that Audubon used during the day. He said by all accounts, Audubon was an expert marksman.
The next presentation featured information on the local wildlife refuge expansion with three speakers: Jared Nance, Refuge Manager, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service;
John Karel, Former Missouri State Parks Director, Director of Tower Grove Park, East Ozarks Audubon Society Member; and Mary Elise Okenfuss, East Ozarks Audubon Society Member and Volunteer.
Carolyn Bach repeated her presentation from the day before, and Robert Mueller, local historian, closed out the day with a presentation on Ferdinand Rozier, his life, family and legacy.
Ste. Genevieve Cable Access TV was on hand to tape each of the presentations and will have them available for viewing soon.