Discover the riveting history behind one of Rock Island’s most iconic buildings with historian and storyteller John Brassard Jr. Dive deep into the YMCA’s history and travel from its beginnings in the early 20th century as a refuge for travelers, soldiers, and citizens looking for purpose and connection through years of scandal, intrigue, and even murder.

Whether you’re a history lover or fascinated by true crime, this talk offers a gripping look at how one building mirrored some of the best and worst elements of Rock Island itself.  

About John Brassard Jr.
John Brassard Jr. is the author, host, and podcaster behind the Strange and Dreadful Things brand. Since 2016, he has soared to ever greater heights and plumbed the darkest depths of history to bring you the stories that your grandma didn’t want to tell you. For more of his content, please visit: The Kitchen Table Historian.

This year’s venue is the Haunted Rock Island Roadhouse, aka the old YMCA. Now owned and operated as Dan Vinar Furniture Company by the Vinar Family. Learn the history of the building, see where John Looney and his crew hung out, and explore some of the paranormal legends that haunt the building.