Join Champion Public Library for a special lecture event at 12:00 PM on Monday, October 27th. Bring your lunch to the library and learn about the Curse of the Hope Diamond with expert Carolyn Crouch, followed by a Q&A session. This “Lunch with Lecture” is designed for guests aged 18 and up. Free and open to the public; however, registration is encouraged. This Zoom lecture event is sponsored by Roads Scholars.
Evalyn Walsh McLean, an American mining heiress and socialite, was the famous owner of the 45-carat Hope Diamond, which was the world’s largest blue diamond when she bought it in 1911 from Pierre Cartier in Paris. People said the diamond was cursed and brought bad luck to its owners. Evalyn took the diamond with her everywhere, from White House parties to charity events. The Smithsonian Institution, where the diamond is now on display at the National Museum of Natural History, says the stories about the curse are not true. Still, Evalyn Walsh McLean’s life changed after she got the Hope Diamond: she lost her son in a car accident, her daughter died young, her husband’s health got worse, and he was put in a hospital, and she eventually lost her money. Was the diamond to blame? Join Carolyn Crouch to learn about where the Hope Diamond’s supposed curse came from and how it connects to the wild and risky life of its unforgettable owner.
Carolyn Crouch is the founder of Washington Walks, with a deep appreciation for D.C.’s rich history. After earning an MFA in acting from The Catholic University of America, Crouch’s passion for walking expeditions took root. A scholar in English and art history, Crouch also updates Fodor’s 25 Best Washington, D.C. guide. Serving on the D.C. History Center’s board, Crouch’s influence extends beyond travel, impacting the historical community at large. A New England native, Crouch brings a diverse perspective to her work.
For more information, call the Champion Public Library at (580) 223-3164. You can visit the library at 601 Railway Express in Ardmore. The Champion Public Library is a branch of the Southern Oklahoma Library System.