The Readstown Public Library invites the community to a special program, ‘A Rare Pearl: Honoring the Legacy of Pearl Swiggum,’ on Saturday, May 9 at 1:30 p.m. at the Advancement Building (208 W. Center St., Readstown, located in Tourist Park).

This heartfelt event will celebrate the life and work of beloved Kickapoo Valley columnist Pearl Swiggum, whose writing captured the humor, resilience, and everyday beauty of rural life.

Swiggum wrote for the Crawford County Independent for over 50 years, and contributed to several regional publications, including a 17-year run in the Monday edition of the Wisconsin State Journal.

In honor of Mother’s Day weekend, attendees will hear from Marjie Jurgensen and Barb Harris, Pearl’s daughter and granddaughter, who will share personal stories, memories, and reflections on her remarkable life. The program will also feature photographs and memorabilia, highlights from her long writing career, and selected readings from her books, including The Barn Came First and Stump Ridge Farm.

This free event is open to the public and welcomes community members of all ages to gather, reflect, and celebrate a truly local literary legacy.