Join us for this presentation based on David McCullough's book, The Pioneers. We will learn how Ohio came into existence and how the first pioneer settlers were able to carve out a successful life in a wilderness filled with unfriendly indigenous peoples, limited supplies, and harsh conditions. It is not only a story of survival but of great courage. We will discuss the Northwest Ordinance of 1787, living in colonial times, and the significance the city of Marietta had in the development of our country. Considering himself a self-taught historian, Van Young was born and raised in northeast Ohio. He has been a resident of Columbus for the last 45 years. One of his retirement goals was to spend time studying and learning about the Civil War, and specifically the social and personal stories of that era. That also led him to immerse himself into learning more about our great American history. Since his retirement from AT&T in 2012, Van has become active with two Central Ohio Civil War organizations and is the current President of the Griswold Center American History Study Group. They meet most Monday mornings via Zoom at 10:00am. It is free of charge, and everyone is invited to attend. With 70 American history, travel and current event topics, Van presents to area history groups, senior centers, retirement villages and local colleges. He has four grandchildren, plays pickleball, and looks forward to visiting many of the battlefields and museums associated with the Civil War and our unique and fascinating American history. As he likes to say, “Remember, we are living history”.