The Oconto County Historical Society will present an evening of mystery, intrigue and forgotten stories at its upcoming Speaker Series event, “The Dark Side of Oconto History.”
The presentation, led by local historian Jay Merline, will take place at 6:30 p.m. March 6 in the meeting room of the Beyer Home and Carriage Museum, 915 Park Ave., Oconto.
Merline, a dedicated researcher and member of the society’s board of directors, has spent years uncovering fascinating and often bizarre stories buried in old newspapers. His PowerPoint presentation will spotlight true but little-known events from Oconto’s past — some tragic, some unbelievable and some just plain strange.
The tales include the following:
• A stolen suit that found its way back to the tailor’s shop — from an unexpected source.
• A band of Native Americans who suffered a brutal assault.
• The strangest hiding place ever used to evade the police.
• The eerie legend of the Shaggy Phantom Hermit.
• A high school field trip gone horribly wrong.
Merline’s love for history began as a teenager while working with the late George E. “Jimmie” Hall and has since grown into a lifelong passion. Over the years, he has rescued countless historical artifacts and now manages several local history Facebook pages dedicated to preserving the rich heritage of Oconto and Marinette counties.
Admission is free. Light refreshments will be served, and the museum gift shop will be open.
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