Bob Schrage, author, historian and collector of historic manuscripts, recently addressed the Florence Rotary Club regarding his new book, Eyewitness to History: A Personal Journal.
Schrage graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a Masters of Public Affairs and from Northern Kentucky University with a bachelor’s degree in Public Administration. He is currently a professor at NKU, executive director of the Rabbit Hash Historical society, and director of admission for Transitions, Inc. Bob retired from Northern Kentucky Area Development District in 2010 after twenty years there, the last fifteen as Assistant Director.
“I absolutely love history, especially American history, “Schrage said,” no matter who’s President,” drawing a laugh from the audience. He continued, “Harry S. Truman called history just one damn thing after another, but I think we need to experience history, not just read about it.”
As a teenager, Schrage said his early love of reading grew into an interest in politics, beginning with the 1980 Republican convention, and following the Ford vs. Carter campaigns. Schrage served as an Ohio youth delegate for Reagan, and heard Reagan’s acceptance speech.
His fascination with politics has led him to attend numerous Iowa caucuses. “I’m like one of those storm chasers,” laughed Schrage, “chasing candidates around the state.” While not pledging allegiance to any political party, he did confirm catching Al Gore in a lie. Said Schrage, “When Mr. Gore rose to thank the organizers for lunch, he mentioned enjoying the macaroni and cheese, but since I sat by him, I knew he didn’t eat any.” Schrage has also attended five Presidential inaugurations, and admires the pomp and circumstance surrounding the swearing in of an American President.
Schrage’s last story described his excitement and reverence at the visitation services for Rosa Parks. “I recall not the sadness of her death, but the greatness of her life and how one simple act of courage can spark a revolution.”
Schrage’s newest book contains these exciting examples of American history, and many more. Concluded Schrage, “I’ve always been an observer of history. I was a Forrest Gump, before there was a Forrest Gump!”
