John Tyler Community College and the Chesterfield Historical Society of Virginia are proud to host this author and speaker symposium, featuring:

• Jon Kukla – Mr. Jefferson’s Women
• William G. Clotworthy – George Washington in the West
• John Robison of Southern Horizons – History of the Banjo & 19th Century Period Music

Nicholas Student Center
John Tyler Community College – Chester Campus
13101 Jefferson Davis Highway

Speaker Bios

Written by Richard Sanderson, John Tyler Community College Student

Jon Kukla’s accomplishments and success in his field make him an icon of sorts for history buffs. He graduated from Carthage College with a undergraduate degree in history and went on to get his master’s and Ph.D. from the University of Toronto. He has a passion for all areas of history, but particularly in the history of Virginia.

Upon arriving in Virginia in 1973, Kukla found employment at the Library of Virginia where he had the opportunity to publish some of his own articles. He also served on the advisory committee for the Jamestown dig that eventually discovered the fort. Kukla has written many books, including Mr. Jefferson’s Women and A Wilderness So Immerse.

It is not hard to see why John Robison has such a passion for history. His great-grandmother was the daughter of a Union Army captain. Growing up he had access to a copy of Miller’s Photographic History of the Civil War, which is dates back to 1911. Robison’s passion for history even led him to a BA in history and political science from Virginia Commonwealth University.

Now, Robison spends his time as a member of Southern Horizons, a band that performs 19th century music for reenactments, living histories, and other historical events. Robison’s musical talents include vocals, banjo, guitar, autoharp, and harmonica.

Graduating with a degree in communications from Syracuse University, who would have thought William Clotworthy would get into history? Well, he didn’t, until he retired from advertising and broadcasting.

Clotworthy always had an interest in history but never took it seriously until he visited Mount Vernon in retirement. Considering presidential homes his “specialty,” he has spent much time writing books on presidents and their possessions. His accomplishments include four published books.