The public is invited to “Shepherd of History” a free presentation at the Branson Centennial Museum on Tuesday, July 16 from 12:30 – 1:30 PM featuring Keith Thurman. Thurman began as a young actor in the iconic Shepherd of the Hills outdoor drama, quickly moving into the lead role of Young Matt Matthews. Eventually Thurman became the show’s director, a position he has held for more than 30 years.”
“Not only is Keith Thurman the premiere Shepherd of the Hills authority in our region,” said Jean Babcock, Branson Centennial Museum curator. “Keith can trace his family history in the Ozarks back to the early 1800’s. He is a historical treasure with unique and valuable insight into the legendary book that first brought visitors to the region, the real life moral fiber of the Ozarks presented in the novel, and the tremendous influence of the homestead and outdoor drama that continues to this day.”
The Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Drama is a live reenactment of the famous historical novel by Christian minister, Harold Bell Wright, published in 1907. It tells the story of life in the rugged Ozark Mountains of Missouri utilizing more than 90 actors and actresses, horses, sheep, mules and donkeys on a stage the size of a football field. Live action includes a shoot-out, the actual burning of a log cabin, a love story, a mystery and a moral message that still rings true today.
The Tuesday Talk series is presented free-of-charge by the Branson Centennial Museum and White River Valley Historical Society. Throughout 2019, various topics of local and historical interest will be presented by knowledgeable speakers every month on the third Tuesday from 12:30 until 1:30 PM. The Museum is located in historic Downtown Branson at 120 South Commercial Street.
For more information on this presentations and future events at the Branson Centennial Museum, go to www.wrvhs.org or call 417-239-1912.
