Burleson residents are invited to step back in time at the Russell Farm Art Center’s Red Chair Lecture on Jan. 23, 2027. The free, two‑hour program runs from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the historic venue located at 405 W County Road 714.
Connecting Books to Family History
Sara Miller, deputy director of the Burleson Public Library, will guide attendees through a curated selection of titles from the Russell Farm Art Center’s library collection. Miller will explain how each volume reflects the cultural and educational priorities of the era in which it was acquired.
Joining her is Charlsa Boren Bentley, a direct descendant of the Russell family that owned the farm for four generations. Bentley will share personal anecdotes and historical context, illustrating how the books were not merely possessions but touchstones of daily life on the farm. Her stories link the printed word to the people who read, taught, and preserved them.
Celebrating 150 Years of Community Heritage
The lecture is part of a broader series of events marking the 150th anniversary of the Russell Farm Art Center. Established in 1877, the center has long served as a cultural hub for Burleson and the surrounding Johnson County area, offering art exhibitions, educational programs, and a treasured library collection.
Organizers hope the Red Chair Lecture will inspire a renewed appreciation for local history and encourage families to explore the center’s resources. “Our books tell the story of our community’s growth and values,” Miller said. “By hearing from a Russell family member, we see how those stories lived on in everyday life.”
Practical Details
The event is open to the public and free of charge. Seating is limited, so interested residents are encouraged to arrive early. Light refreshments will be available, and the venue is wheelchair accessible.
For more information, visit the Russell Farm Art Center’s website or contact the Burleson Public Library. The lecture promises a unique blend of scholarly insight and personal memory, offering a window into the lives of the families who helped shape Burleson’s heritage.
Original reporting: City of Burleson News Flash — read the source article.
