Many people recognize the name of John James Audubon, but don’t know much about his life. Find out about him when the Marathon County Historical Society presents “John James Audubon and ‘The Birds of America’,” another topic in our History Speaks series, at 2 p.m. Sunday, April 8, at the Woodson History Center, 410 McIndoe St., Wausau.

John James Audubon is known as “the bird man.” Dr. Brett Barker will explore Audubon’s life, his contributions to ornithology and art, and the ways in which his book “The Birds of America” continues to inspire and intrigue people today.

Brett Barker received his Ph.D. from UW-Madison and is Professor of History at UW-Marathon County where he has taught since 2002. He is a member of the Marathon County Historical Society Board of Directors and author of Exploring Civil War Wisconsin: A Survival Guide for Researchers. In his spare time, he is also an avid birdwatcher.

There is no admission fee; however, donations are appreciated. Registration is not required.

The Historical Society is grateful to Janke Book Store and to Compass Properties for their sponsorship of the History Speaks series.

Visitors might also enjoy a guided tour of the Yawkey House Museum, or visiting our free exhibit spaces. “Rural Electrification: Outlet for Change” depicts life before and after electricity made its slow way into rural areas of Marathon County in the 1930s and ‘40s. “Our Stories: The History of Marathon County” features reminiscences of how people arrived in this area, and how they worked and played in days gone by.

For more information, please call the Marathon County Historical Society at 715-842-5750.