Gillespie Library hosts free book presentation

The friends of the Gillespie Public Library invite you to attend a free presentation by Mark Pierce, author of his book “When the Stars Came Out”, the story of the Mississippi River Festival. The program is on Wednesday, Sept. 20 at 6:30 p.m. at Gillespie Public Library, located at 201 West Chestnut in Gillespie.

In the summer of 1969 “The Mississippi River Festival” kicked off on the campus of SIUE. For the next 12 years the outdoor summer concert series attracted more than a million fans. It showcased the talents of the top music groups and legends of the time.

It featured not only the top rock ‘n roll groups but also areas of classical, jazz, bluegrass and other musical diversities.

Pierce has been a journalist and communications leader in the St. Louis area for more than 30 years and is a graduate of SIUE. His love for music inspired him to write this book, which is the first book that truly tells the history of MRF.

Please join us to enjoy the memories of the MRF. Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signings.