“At Heart…A Westerner: Theodore Roosevelt’s Formation in the West”

On Sunday, June 7, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. in the Betty Strong Auditorium, Helen Lewis will share a fascinating exploration into “At Heart…A Westerner: Theodore Roosevelt’s Formation in the West.” Admission is free, but freewill donations encouraged. Highly celebrated as leader of the Rough Riders and as twenty-sixth President of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt attributed his physical stamina and strength of character, in large part, to his experiences in the Dakotas as ranch owner and hunter. However, the young Theodore Roosevelt fulfilled many other roles in the West, which not only prepared him for his later rigorous public service, but which also influenced his own ideals of manhood. With courage and persistence, “Four Eyes” Roosevelt, the Dude from the East, transformed himself into a cowboy respected in the West. Lewis uses photos and stories, many by Roosevelt himself, to explore the conversion of New York urbanite Theodore Roosevelt into a Dakota ranchman. Helen Lewis, retired instructor at Western Iowa Tech Community College, taught courses in English and Humanities. Her special interests include westerns, women artists, medieval mysteries, and square dancing. Originally with the Great Plains Chautauqua Society, Lewis continues to offer many programs for Humanities Iowa and Nebraska Humanities.