The Cowlitz County Historical Museum in Kelso will host historian and author John Drury this evening at 7 p.m. as part of its ongoing First Thursday program. The event highlights regional history through lectures, films, and discussions with local experts.

Drury will present a screening of his program on Captain George Flavel, a 19th-century maritime entrepreneur who played a major role in the early development of Astoria, Oregon. The presentation was originally produced in partnership with the Lewis and Clark National Historic Park, exploring Flavel’s life, his pioneering work as a Columbia River bar pilot, and his influence on regional commerce and architecture.

Following the screening, Drury will take questions from attendees and discuss themes from his book, Captain George Flavel, which will be available for purchase and signing. The First Thursday series aims to deepen public appreciation for Pacific Northwest history while connecting contemporary audiences to figures whose work shaped the region’s identity.

More information about museum programming and community history events can be found through the Cowlitz County Historical Museum.