Coffee Talk to capture the spirit of Illinois' traveling salesmen

Residents are invited to hear Ronald Solberg describe the adventures of some of Illinois’ enterprising and spirited traveling salesmen at the Des Plaines History Center’s Coffee Talk set for Thursday, October 9, from 1:30-2:30 p.m. at the History Center, 781 Pearson Street.

According to Solberg’s website, “As Chicago and the State of Illinois have long served as retailing centers for the nation, it is probably no coincidence that it has also introduced more than its fair share of innovative and enterprising salesmen. For more than 150 years, figures such as Marshall Field and his ‘whizbang drummers’ and infomercial king Ron Popeil and his ‘Pocket Fisherman’ have introduced products, services and concepts that are still with us today.”

Come learn about these innovative business masters and their many ideas and strategies that have been adopted by modern-day marketing, advertising, and public relations professionals. A $3 donation is suggested.

The Coffee Talk, “Traveling Salesmen of Illinois,” complements the History Center’s new travel exhibit “Greetings from Des Plaines.” Guests are invited to tour the display after the talk. For more information, call the History Center at 847-391-5399 or visit www.desplaineshistory.org.

The History Center gratefully acknowledges operating support from the City of Des Plaines, the Des Plaines Park District, its members, and other contributors.