February 15 2026, 12:00pm

Mississippi Meanderings

Mississippi Meanderings

Old Bakery Beer Company

400 Landmarks Blvd.
Alton, Illinois 62002

  • Admission: $15 per person
  • Time: 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM

This celebration of paddling and big rivers is sponsored by the Mississippi River Water Trail Association. This year's speakers are a great lineup: Paul Mellor, a source to sea paddler; Jeff Ruyle, a tow boat deckhand; and Faye Dant, a Hannibal, Missouri, resident who is documenting the history of the city's Black residents. Awards and announcement of plans for 2026 are also part of this event.

Event Schedule
12 p.m. - 1 p.m. - Come early to meet and greet. Enjoy coffee and snacks.
1 p.m. - 1:15 p.m. - Awards and announcements
1:15 p.m. - 2:15 p.m. - Paul Mellor talks about his source to sea adventure.
2:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. - Break
2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. - Jeff Ruyle talks about life as a tow boat deckhand.
3:30 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. - Break
3:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. - Faye Dant talks about contributions of the Black community in Hannibal.