Osher@Mizzou offers Columbia history course

Written by Dianna Borsi O'Brien

If you are over 50 and love Columbia history, here’s great news.

A new 8-week class, History of Columbia, Missouri, will start on Sept. 10, offered by Osher@Mizzou. Sign-up begins Aug. 19 for the in-person and online 8-week course. This is the first Columbia history course offered by Osher.

 Osher@Mizzou is a program that offers a range of noncredit, affordable courses and other offerings for people over 50. Osher membership is $30 and the course is $60. Sign up here.

 The course will be taught by Matt Fetterly, the historian and collections curator at the Boone County Historical Society. “He is an 8th-generation Columbian who has spent 20 years collecting (and sometimes reading) books and ephemera about Columbia, Boone County, and Missouri. He speaks and writes about local history,” according to the Osher course catalog. Fetterly is also a former board member of CoMo Preservation.

 In-person enrollment is limited to 85 people. Don’t worry about missing a class. “All online and hybrid classes are recorded for future viewing,” notes the Osher course catalog.

The class description beckons, “Explore the 200-plus-year history of the City of Columbia, beginning with the Village of Smithton and the Boonslick region… students will learn the driving forces, ideas and personalities behind Columbia’s development.” The course will include a special emphasis on the histories of the University of Missouri, Stephens College, and Columbia College. 

 Don't forget to sign up here. Classes begin Sept. 10.

CoMo Preservation is devoted to helping homeowners, landlords, and institutions prevent the destruction of historic architecture. Original period styles might be replicated, but will forever lack the social history of authentic structures. The preservation of historic places and spaces gives people a sense of place and boosts Columbia’s economy. You can get involved by becoming a member, volunteering, signing up for our newsletter attending an event, or donating.

Questions? Suggestions for speakers or events? Email CoMoPreservation@gmail.com