Come learn from a local expert how mussel shells became an important industry for towns up and down the river. This presentation will include a visual display of postcards from the era of the button industry depicting the locations, equipment, and people who were part of this piece of our local history. Mr. Stumm will also bring along various artifacts he has collected over the years, including some tools, pamphlets, mussel shells, buttons, and more!

Robert Stumm is a graduate of the University of Minnesota with a BA in history. He is currently a freelance writer and historian, specializing in upper Mississippi-related history. He is the author of two books: A Postcard Journey Along the Upper Mississippi, and Back to Old St. Louis and thee 1904 World’s Fair. Robert has put together a collection of 2,700 vintage postcards documenting the towns and places along the upper Mississippi River. He is currently holding memberships in the following organizations: Ramsey County Historical Society, Twin Cities Postcard Club, and the Twin Cities Ancient Coin Club. He is a resident of St. Paul, MN.