Medford, OR (April 29, 2026) – The U.S. Forest Service built a network of inter-visible lookout towers in the early 20th century. Presenter Brian White will explain how the lookouts were designed, built, and operated. He will also share stories of unusual observations such as volcanic eruptions. Come learn about the lookouts on Wednesday, May 6 from 12:00 – 1:00 PM at the Medford Library. If you can’t attend the first lecture, it will happen again on Wednesday, May 13 from 12:00 – 1:00 PM at the Ashland Library.
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Brian White grew up in Northern California. His earliest memories are of camping with family, studying Earth Sciences, and building a career reflecting a life-long interest in the natural world. He recently retired from the U.S. Forest Service where he worked in development and management of public recreational, natural and cultural resources. White intends to continue to contribute to the preservation of our national heritage and conservation of our spectacular public lands.
The monthly Windows in Time lunchtime lectures feature well-known writers and historians and bring alive the people, values, and events that shaped our southern Oregon heritage. Lectures are jointly sponsored by the Southern Oregon Historical Society (SOHS) and Jackson County Library Services. Programs are presented in Medford (first Wednesdays, in-person) and again in Ashland (second Wednesdays, in-person). Recordings of Medford presentations are available on the JCLS Beyond YouTube channel. Please note these programs are no longer streaming live on Zoom.
