Storyteller Brings “From Pirate to Patriot" to Orland Park

ORLAND PARK, IL (April 25, 2019) – Jean Lafitte was a French pirate who helped defend America against the British during the War of 1812.

Historical Storyteller Joe Geringer returns to Orland Park on Saturday, May 4 to present “From Pirate to Patriot” at 1 p.m. at the Orland Park History Museum, 14415 South Beacon Avenue.

“My hour long story telling covers the adventures of who history calls ‘The Gentlemen Pirate’,” Geringer explained. “In 1803, the U.S. bought Louisiana from the French but then simply walked away leaving New Orleans off the main shipping lanes, not receiving the adequate supplies to survive. Enter Lafitte whose buccaneers plundered merchant ships in the Caribbean and Atlantic to bring back the goodies to New Orleans.”

The program is open to those ages 13 through adults. The cost for museum members is $10 with admission for non-members being $15.

“Lafitte became a legend in his own time and remains an iconic figure in history to this day,” Geringer said. “Besides feeding and clothing the people of a forgotten New Orleans, he also helped General Andy Jackson save the town from an overwhelming British Army in the War of 1812.”

Geringer’s presentation includes plundering pirates, sword duels, romance and an idyllic look at New Orleans in the early 19th Century --- a town of swinging staircases, wrought iron balconies, sugar plantations, seafaring scoundrels, gator infested bayous and open air fruit and vegetable markets.

“We’re excited to welcome Joe Geringer back to Orland Park,” said Orland Park Trustee Kathy Fenton, village board liaison to the museum. “Each of his past presentations – Capone vs Ness and the Story of Fort Dearborn --- were very well received. He brings history to life and our audiences love it.”

Geringer lived in New Orleans for six years when he ran a theatre group for a local park district. While there, he began his research and published an Internet story for the popular Crime Library. He also served as a consultant for an independent movie maker producing a short bio about Jean Lafitte.

Geringer is an author, actor and historian who's spent more than 30 years researching different aspects of American history. Born in St. Sabina Parish on Chicago's South Side, Geringer grew up in St. Bernadette Parish in Evergreen Park. He is a graduate of Leo High School and Saint Xavier University.

"I grew up with an Irish mother who drummed in my head the value and color of history," Geringer said. "When other kids were watching Huckleberry Hound or Yogi Bear, I was learning about the Roaring 20s or the Civil War from my mom."

Tickets may be purchased at the Orland Park Sportsplex, 11351 West 159th Street, and online at https://apm.activecommunities.com/orlandparkrecreation/Activity_Search/from-pirate-to-patriot/8053?fbclid=IwAR2cu1LoVVSfqyfjG_vdhLHrxKbOxf_-7gUrHz5132IjtB_24xR-oL_vToo. Tickets will also be available at the door.

For more information, call the museum at 708/873-1622.