Book signing and talk on life and career of W.Va. politician Ken Hechler set for Robert C. Byrd Center for Congressional History and Education
SHEPHERDSTOWN, W.Va. — The public is invited to a book talk and signing on Wednesday Nov. 1 by author Carter Taylor Seaton on her most recent publication: The Rebel in the Red Jeep: Ken Hechler’s Life in West Virginia Politics.
Shepherd University’s Department of History, Appalachian Studies program and the Robert C. Byrd Center for Congressional History and Education will host the event, which is from 7-9 p.m. on Wednesday Nov. 1. Admission is free and open to the public.
Seaton will discuss Hechler’s multifaceted life and legacy, which included working as a researcher and writer for President Harry Truman, representing West Virginia in the U.S. Hose of Representatives from 1959-1977, and serving as the West Virginia Secretary of State from 1985-2001. Hechler was the primary architect of the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969 and later campaigned against mountain top removal. He was famous for campaigning across WV in his red jeep.
Seaton was the recipient of 2014 West Virginia Library Association’s Literary Merit Award, the 2015 Marshall University Distinguished Alumni Award, and the 2016 Governor’s Award for Lifetime Achievement in the in Arts. She has also authored Hippie Homesteaders: Arts, Crafts, Music, and Living Off the Land in West Virginia, and two novels, Father’s Trouble$ and amo, amas, amat … An Unconventional Love Story.
The event will take place in the Robert C. Byrd Center for Congressional History and Education auditorium at 213 N. King St. on the campus of Shepherd University in Shepherdstown, WV. A book signing and reception with light refreshments will follow the talk.
Persons interested in reserving seats should call Jody Brumage at (304) 876-5648 or email him at [email protected]. Reservations may also be made at the office of the Byrd Center Monday.
A private, nonpartisan, and nonprofit educational organization located on the campus of Shepherd University, The Robert C. Byrd Center for Congressional History and Education advances representative democracy by promoting a better understanding of the United States Congress and the Constitution through programs and research that engage citizens.