PCPL event to highlight IBM’s local impact Oct. 15

Monday, September 26, 2022
IBM plant tour, 1959

In celebration of Putnam County’s 200th anniversary, the community is invited to look back on the legacy of IBM with a special event hosted by the Putnam County Public Library.

The library will present “IBM’s Impact: An Afternoon of Stories and Remembrance” On Saturday, Oct. 15 from 1-4 p.m.

IBM was a fixture in Putnam County for 33 years from 1954 until 1987. IBM employed 945 people at its peak and its impact on the county and its residents still resonates.

The event, which is free and open to the public, will feature a panel of speakers, viewing of photographs and documents from the library’s archives and opportunities for discussion. Light refreshments will be served.

“As we leave the 200th year of Putnam County, we want to reflect on the legacy of IBM and the residents who worked there,” archivist Anthony Barger said. “We hope to share this rich history with those who lived it, as well as those who have perhaps only heard stories passed down from family and friends.”

The panel will include former Greencastle Mayor Mike Harmless, former County Councilman Bob Evans, community leader Bill Marley and IBM retiree Duane Kelly.

In turn, Harmless’ intensive research on Putnam County history inspired an optional self-guided walking tour of downtown Greencastle that will be offered following the event. Attendees can pick up a resource booklet and then stroll the downtown’s businesses and eateries.

“Our goal is to highlight some of the most important economic aspects of the community from the past 200 years,” Main Street Greencastle Executive Director Mike Richmond said. “Bringing together the history of IBM here in Greencastle, along with additional historical aspects from downtown, will be a unique and interesting way to spend the afternoon.”

The event is sponsored by the Putnam County Public Library, the Heritage Preservation Society of Putnam County, Main Street Greencastle and the Putnam County Visitors Bureau.

For more information about the event, persons may email Barger at abarger@pcpl21.

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