Rutland OLLI

with Will Gusakov – Master Timber Framer, Founder of Goosewing Timberworks

Join timber framer Will Gusakov for an inside look at the extraordinary effort to rebuild the nave roof of Notre Dame de Paris. Drawing on six months of hands-on work in France, Will shares stunning images, videos, and stories from both the Normandy workshop and the cathedral site. Learn about the artistry, craftsmanship, and collaboration behind restoring one of the world’s most iconic gothic and neo-gothic architectural masterpieces.

with Dr. Jonathan Spiro, Former President of Castleton University; Author

Investigate why Donald Trump chose to hang a portrait of his favorite president, James K. Polk, in the Oval Office immediately after his reelection. (Who?) James K. Polk. Explore the life and legacy of America’s 11th president, whose single term (1845–1849) transformed the nation through bold expansion and decisive leadership. Examine how Polk’s ambitious agenda and controversial methods continue to influence and fascinate political figures today.

with Katie Wood Kirchhoff, the Alice Cooney Frelinghuysen Curator of American Decorative Arts, Shelburne Museum.

Ever wonder what kinds of art and objects are hidden in Shelburne Museum’s storage areas? Join curator Katie Wood Kirchhoff for an inside look at Varied & Alive, an exhibition opening in May 2026 at the Pizzagalli Center for Art and Education. Explore a fascinating mix of iconic paintings, furniture, trade signs, weathervanes, quilts, and more that bring the museum’s rarely seen collections to life.

with Barry Griffith, Hiker and History Buff

Discover the story of the Crown Point Road, first marked and cut by the British in 1759 and sometimes called “Vermont’s first interstate highway.” Trace its use as a military road from the Connecticut River to Lake Champlain during the French and Indian War and again in the American Revolution. Follow Vermont’s earliest settlers from southern New England as they built homes and communities along the route. Explore the geology, history, and lasting significance of the road over the last 12,000 years to present day, with a special focus on Rutland County.

Non Profit Environmental Educators and Conservationists

If you had wings like a hawk, where would you fly? Birds of prey are found all over the world, in all kinds of environments—so why don’t we follow them! Join us on an imagined journey across the United States and encounter some resident raptors in their ecosystems. We’ll learn about the habitat needs of each species, as well as their range and behavior in the wild. You’ll also meet three live raptors up close during the presentation. Who knows whoooo we’ll encounter?

with Karen Lorentz, Freelance Writer and Author, Photojournalist

Experience an illustrated presentation of Killington Ski Area’s fascinating journey from humble beginnings to the “Beast of the East.” Trace the mountain’s formidable presence on the Vermont landscape from the first known ascent in 1763 to the modern resort era. Learn how a man with foresight and tenacity explored the mountain in 1955 and, in pursuit of his American Dream, attracted a talented team who helped Killington pioneer “a better way” — ultimately becoming one of the nation’s top destination resorts.

with Ernie Clerihew, Model T Enthusiast and Restorer

Henry Ford (1863-1947) was born on a farm outside Detroit, but he hated the drudgery of farm work. Mechanically gifted, Henry was intrigued as a teen by the steam tractor. As a young man, he got a job in Detroit with the Edison Illuminating Company. In 1896 Ford built his first car and sought investors to establish The Ford Motor Company in 1903. Our presenter bought his 1914 Ford Model T in 1988 and has had many adventures with it. He will share the Model T’s history and its quirks, and invites you to tour the car afterward.