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A Historic Trip Through The Grand Canyon By The Magic Of Radio

caption: Clay Jenkinson as John Wesley Powell
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Clay Jenkinson as John Wesley Powell
Photo Courtesy of Katrina Shelby Photography

Scholar and author Clay Jenkinson is known to many listeners as the co-host of The Thomas Jefferson Hour. You may also know that every year he visits Seattle to perform one of his historical interpretations. He calls it the highlight of his year.

This time around Jenkinson came in the guise of soldier, geologist and explorer John Wesley Powell. Jenkinson focused on Powell’s famous 1869 expedition down the Green and Colorado Rivers. It was the first known passage of Europeans through the Grand Canyon.

Jenkinson always manages to bring to life a person, time and place. If you haven’t heard him before, you’re in for a treat. His tale of the Powell expedition may draw you back in time.

This event took place on Nov. 22 at Town Hall Seattle. It was presented by Seattle Public Library as part of its 2015 McLellan/O’Donnell Living History Series.

Please be advised: The following piece contains a brief section of adult language. And apologies for the periodic scratchiness of our recording. Mr. Powell’s long beard made a mess of modern recording technology.

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