Volunteer millers will host a program entitled Three Frenchmen and a Goat. This quirky title relates the story of three brothers of French and Swiss immigrants during the late 19th century. These first generation Americans created a company in Greenville, Illinois that made fraternal initiation oddities and later transitioned to colorful marching band uniforms. The DeMoulins were the entrepreneurs who launched the factory in 1892 as maker of regalia and paraphernalia for Modern Woodmen of America. Their descendants continued transitioning for over 130 years. Today, they are one of six remaining band uniforms manufacturers in America. This program is a tribute to their invention, imagination, and industry.
John Goldsmith best relates their story. His mother was a 50 year employee of the company. In 2010, John founded the DeMoulin Museum; which has been featured on several television programs. Come join us to hear their story in person.
The presentation will be Sunday, May 21, at 2:00pm at the Windmill Cultural Center at 111-10th Avenue Fulton, IL across from the authentic Dutch windmill. This month’s presentation is offered through a grant from the Illinois Humanities program. Presentations are free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served following the presentation. The facility is accessible to persons with disabilities. For information, visit the Windmill Cultural Center and de Immigrant Windmill Facebook page, the Visit Fulton Facebook page, www.cityoffulton website, or call 563-249-6115.
