Gibraltar Talks: The Life & Times of Jessie Thorp

The Gibraltar Historical Association’s (GHA) monthly talk series will begin on Tuesday evening, May 13 at 7:30 pm at the Guenzel Gallery of the Peninsula Art School located at 3900 County F, Fish Creek.

The presenter for the evening will be Kathleen Harris, and the presentation, “The Life & Times of Jessie Thorp,” will take place amidst “A Painted History of Fish Creek,” an exhibit created by Andrea Kinsey-Jauquet a relative of Jessie Kinsey Thorp. It is interesting to note that many of the painted buildings were part of Jessie Thorp’s real life and times as she lived in Fish Creek in the early 1900s.

The Thorp House Inn is listed in the National Register of Historical Places. In 1902, Freeman Thorp, nephew of Asa Thorp- founder of Fish Creek, and his wife Jessie began the building of the house. Tragedy struck on Oct. 3, 1903 when the steamship Erie L. Hackley capsized in a sudden squall claiming the life of Freeman and ten others.

Fate necessitated that widow Jessie Thorp begin renting rooms to tourists. As of 2008, the Thorp House Inn stands as a reminder of Fish Creek’s past. It is considered one of the most charming inns in America and was the inspiration for LaVyrle Spencer’s best selling book, Bittersweet.

The public is welcome to attend all monthly Gibraltar Talks programs and events throughout 2008. These programs are free and light refreshments are served. Free will donations are always appreciated.

For more information call 920.868.3618.