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Point Roberts historian to speak

by Davea Fisher

Richard E. Clark, the author of ÒPoint Roberts, U.S.A.Ó will give a talk about the history of the Point at 7 p.m. on Saturday, February 8, at the community center. ÒDickÓ, as he likes to be called, was born in Wenatchee, Washington, but moved to the Blaine area when he was two. The book was an expansion of his masterÕs thesis at Western Washington University, where he graduated in 1970.

Dick was the first person in that university to receive a masterÕs degree in sociology, as it was a new program. The thesis committee rejected his initial thesis on the ground that it was much too long. Dick was told it was not a thesis - it was a book. So, Dick cut the thesis in half. Ten years later, (1980), the book was published. To date, it is the only book written about Point Roberts, and contains a marvelous amount of historical information including excerpts from books, newspapers, journals and letters. One of the quotes that appears on the back cover might be considered relevant 23 years later.

ÒThe inability of the United States and Canada to come to grips with the problems of Point Roberts are an embarrassment to both governments. Mr. ClarkÕs work will play an important role in helping these two giants understand that Point RobertsÕ underlying difficulties are a result of the international border.Ó Congressman Al Swift.

The Friends of the Library will provide a display of family histories and videos and the Point Roberts Historical Society will provide a display of historical photos. The event is free and all are welcome.

Come and learn about your town and meet the man who knows more about its history than most.

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