Sierra Speaker Series: John C. Frémont- “The Great Pathfinder”

John C. Frémont- “The Great Pathfinder” who led wilderness expeditions to open settlement of the American West

The monthly Sierra Speaker Series connects folks to the rich cultural and natural history of the area. Join us at Donner Memorial State Park Visitor Center to learn and engage! Doors open at 5 pm, and the presentation is to follow at 5:30 pm. Admission is a suggested $5 donation. Light refreshments will be available. Parking is free after 5 pm. No registration required.

Steve Hale brings John C. Frémont to life with his live historical character portrayal. Frémont played a role in almost every pivotal American political and military event of the mid-19th Century. He was a pioneering Western explorer, millionaire gold baron, premature emancipator, Major General of Union forces in the Civil War, California Senator, Governor of the Arizona Territory, and the United States’ first Republican Presidential candidate.

Along with his wife Jessie, the Frémonts barreled through life blazing new trails and challenging the prevailing norms in 19th Century America. Frémont’s setbacks were tempered by his achievements and Jessie’s steadfast support. Their devotion to each other and the American legacy they molded distinguished them as the power couple of the 1800s.

Our Performer:

Steve Hale of Comstock Characters has been presenting engaging reenactments of pivotal historical characters to audiences for over two decades in the Lake Tahoe region and West Coast.

Hale’s travels over the years have inspired many opportunities to perform at National and State Parks, historical societies, statue dedications, fundraising events, dinner theaters, schools, annual commemorative events, Chautauqua venues, and in repertory with other period Chautauqua characters. Steve is a western history buff, NAI Certified Interpretive Guide, and his work sharing history through live performances includes awards for Conservation Educator of the Year, preserving historical legacies through performance, and nationally for Excellence in Interpretation and Conservation.