Through the words of George A. Hormel, I have learned about a time in history that I really had no connection to before.

I have been taken on a journey from Germany to Buffalo to Toledo, Chicago, Austin and California. I have learned how the oldest born son in a large family in less convenient times had to take on a role of responsibility that few today would be familiar with. And, I have learned how one man can have a dream and, through pursuing it for himself, he can help others achieve goals that they might not have thought possible. My mind has been expanded.

I think you, too, can benefit from reading George’s words so I invite you to attend the celebration of the first official publishing of his autobiography, “The Open Road,” starting at 5:30 p.m. on Monday.

Sandra Weinrib Stanfield was hired by Tom and Jim Hormel to professionally edit and publish the manuscript. She will be here on Monday to share her journey through the process, and we will have a champagne toast to celebrate the fact that now this spectacular story can be shared around the world.

Following is an excerpt from the book:

“Although I was much too young in 1873 to understand the complicated causes behind this phenomenon called panic which had suddenly disrupted the lives of so many, and which people discussed in subdued hopeless voices or else shouted about on street corners and in the railroad yards, raising clenched fists and calling on God to “smite the rascals”, nevertheless I was old enough to be immediately affected by its result, for it was my introduction – as it was for thousands of other teen-age boys and girls that year — to the world of hard work and constant struggle for a livelihood. My father’s tannery soon went the way of the butchers’ horses and meat blocks. I quit school and went to work for fifty cents a day, glad to be able to contribute my share toward helping him feed seven hungry mouths — a considerable job for one man even under favorable circumstances.”

Tom and Jim Hormel have graciously donated the publishing rights to the Hormel Historic Home meaning that all sales of the book benefit our preservation and mission. It is a very generous gift and we are grateful for all sales.

I am confident that you will learn from and enjoy the book so I hope I see you on Monday evening to hear more about it.

Celebrating the Publishing of “The Open Road, The Autobiography of George A. Hormel”

5:30 p.m. social, 6:15 p.m., presentation by Editor Sandra Weinrib Stanfield, Monday, Aug. 28

Free for HHH members; $5 for nonmembers. Light refreshments and cash bar available

The Big Red Dog at the Big Yellow House

10 to 11:30 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 9

History for Half Pints Family Fun Day, free