The Herrin Area Historical Society hosts a presentation by businessman Gery Will at 2:00 pm, Friday, June 15 at Herrin City Library. Gery Will is a third generation member of the family that operated Herrin Bottling Works at 516 North Park Avenue. The business produced Coca-Cola products for Southern Illinois and neighboring states from 1902 until 1985.

Will has many anecdotes about the operation of the business, and he will also discuss his large collection of Coca-Cola memorabilia. He is a former art teacher at Herrin Junior High School, and presently proprietor of Will’s Clock Shop at 521 North Park Avenue, across the street from his family’s former business.

Will invites guests to his presentation to bring any memorabilia, such as the birthday cards, redeemable for a six-pack of Coca-Cola, that were mailed to local school children. HAHS board member, Bert Gordon, is program chair for June 15.

This event is part of the Herrin Area Historical Society’s guest lecture series.  It is free and open to the public. Monthly guest lectures feature regional and state authors who speak on historical topics. Membership applications are available at Herrin City Library. Details at 618-727-0432.