WILLISTON, N.D. - Minot reenactor Chris Floyd will perform the role of Col. William "Buffalo Bill" Cody on Tuesday, October 25 at 7 p.m. at the Williston ARC.
Once called a "Chautauqua," this type of educational presentation became popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. At a Chautauqua, scholars who studied the life of an individual would portray him or her for audiences all over the country.
Theodore Roosevelt considered a Chautauqua to be "the most American thing in America."
Richard Stenberg, WSC Associate Professor of History and Park Ranger at Fort Union, came up with the idea after his years working with Floyd.
"Chris has participated every year at our Rendezvous and he has been there year after year for our Living History Weekend over Labor Day," explained Stenberg. "I am excited we are able to showcase his talent through this event. Chris is a spitting image of a younger Buffalo Bill Cody. He has done a fine job putting this role together."
With local artist David Njos' new display 'Clark's Table' [a historical piece commemorating Lewis and Clark] to be unveiled outside the WSC Science Wing, and with the iconic Sitting Bull statue in front of Stevens Hall, an event promoting the history surrounding Williston was Stenberg's goal.
"An Evening with Buffalo Bill Cody" will be a conversation between Stenberg and Floyd, both dressed in period clothing, reminiscing on Cody's past. The evening will unfold in two parts. The first will be Floyd portraying Cody fielding questions from Stenberg, and in the second Floyd will open the conversation to the audience as himself.
Funded through the Williston State College Foundation and the WSC's Arts and Human Sciences Department, the Williston ARC has generously donated two rooms for this educational event.
The Williston Community is encouraged to attend this free event, but it is recommended to arrive early to ensure a seat.
For more information on WSC, please visit www.willistonstate.edu, call 1.888.863.9455 or stop by 1410 University Avenue, Williston, ND.