|
In August 1944, the Allies invaded the southern coast of France in an operation eventually named DRAGOON. The capture of the great ports of Toulon and Marseilles, along with the drive north through the Rhone River valley to Lyon and Dijon would be one of the most successful and controversial campaigns of World War II. Often overlooked as an afterthought for its contributions because of the June 1944 landings in Normandy and the simultaneous liberation of Rome, the campaign provided critical support to the Normandy-based armies as they joined to head east toward the Third Reich. This two-part lecture will initially describe Allied and Axis assets on the eve of battle then go ashore with the Allied forces as they head to the Rhine River. “On se voit là-bas!" See you there!
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
This course will focus on the most important astronomical discoveries from ancient times into the 21st century. This will be light on technical details, while still explaining the science, and focusing on the people who made these amazing discoveries. We’ll provide the significant background of the individual’s life and the interesting stories of what they learned, leading us to our current understanding of the universe. A few of the super stars of astronomy such as: Aristotle, Claudius Ptolemy, Tycho Brahe, Nicolaus Copernicus, Galileo Galilei, Johannes Kepler, Isaac Newton, Edwin Hubble, Albert Einstein, Stephen Hawking plus more. This course is a follow up to the more technical “Astronomy 101” class from past semesters but is not a prerequisite. It is suggested you take both in no specific order. Astronomy 101 will return in the spring.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
Election Judges are temporary employees who play a pivotal role in the execution of the voting process in the county. This course will detail the activities performed by a judge in the weeks leading up to an election and on Election Day including recruiting a team, attending training, and addressing myriad issues on Election Day. If you have ever considered being a poll worker or just want to understand more about how the process works, this class is deigned to answer any questions you might have.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
Take a leisurely 90-minute walking tour of Texas Christian University’s stunning campus with a knowledgeable TCU student tour guide. Explore the university’s rich history, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems while walking around one of the nation’s most picturesque college campuses, as recognized by the U.S. News & World Report. Enjoy engaging conversation, fun facts, and a fresh perspective on the campus where students learn, live, and gather. Whether you’re a Horned Frog alum or a Silver Frog eager to explore and learn more about TCU, this course offers an enjoyable and enriching way to experience campus. Parking and Tour will begin at Secrest Wible Building.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
What made the American Revolution truly revolutionary? This interactive seminar explores the radical ideas, documents, and decisions that sparked a nation—and why they still matter 250 years later.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
Join author James Marquart as he shares his story of buying the home of a convicted murderer. You will hear details of the crime's investigation, along with the trial and sentencing. James will even share details of his correspondence with the perpetrator, who currently resides in prison. The lecture will conclude with a discussion of "authors vs. criminals", much like the situation involving Truman Capote in his historic book "In Cold Blood".
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
Let's meet, listen to, and talk to George Washington. He could curse like a sailor. He wrote love letters to a married woman while engaged to Martha. After he died, a doctor had a bizarre plan to bring him back to life. He was once chastised from the pulpit for regularly leaving before communion service. Why was he sterile? Was he the #1 moonshiner in the country? Was he a slave owner at the age of 11? What's the real story about his false teeth? Did he really lose more battles than he won? General Washington will answer these questions and any others from the audience.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
Were you born between 1946 and 1964? If so...congratulations, you're a Boomer. Do you remember what toys you bought? The cars you drove? The games you played? And what did we wear? We'll cover all that in a 1.5 hour "look back" at what we liked, and why we liked it. Do you want to go back? Not me. But I'd like to look in the rearview mirror.
On Campus Session
- Section Code: F26FSFHCE189A
- Instructor: Rix Quinn
- Dates: 10/29/2026 - 10/29/2026
- Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
- Sessions: 1
- Days: M Th
- Building: The Stayton (opens in new tab)
- Room: Dining Room: 11th Floor
|
|
|
|
Both Broadway and Hollywood have been BIG contributors to the Top 40 charts dating back to the 1950s, but the use of songs from stage and screen really took off in the 1960s thanks to Rogers & Hammerstein and Simon & Garfunkel. Join the 3 Amigos as we recall those memorable songs that made it to the R&R charts.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
Berlin in 1945 was the site of the total collapse of the Third Reich. In this 2-session class we will unearth the truths about Hitler's capital's ruin and the devastation that the local population endured yet likely deserved. The impact of the Red Army and the total siege of Berlin was felt for decades and this class will explore the catastrophe from multiple angles in order to better understand the cataclysmic event that was the Fall of Berlin.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
The Goodnight-Loving Trail, also known as the Goodnight Trail or the Loving Trail, was one of several routes used to drive herds of wild Texas cattle from Texas to more viable markets during the latter half of the nineteenth century. Charles Goodnight and Oliver Loving certainly left their mark on the history of Texas and the American West, yet did not blaze the trail that carries their name. Like most topics related to the American West, the lines between legend, fiction, and reality have become blurred with the passage of time. What is the real story behind the legend of Charles Goodnight, Oliver Loving, and the Goodnight-Loving Trail?
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
Explore the period of 1898-1989 in southwestern Indiana coal mining. Look at early coal mining in the area and trace development up to the 1980s through pictures and words. Topics include such things as equipment, materials, social, economic, unions, and even basketball and football.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
This course will examine why Texans voted to join the Confederacy, how the people coped with wartime conditions, and where the men fought. It will look at not only the soldiers that Texas furnished to the southern armies, but also how women back home dealt with their changing roles as head of households.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
When we think of John Lennon and Paul McCartney we think of a remarkable writing partnership. The truth is, from about 1967 on, they were each writing their own songs but putting the Lennon-McCartney stamp on the results for contractual reasons. We're going to dive into the Lennon and McCartney songbooks and see some of the most notable songs in a different light. Come join the 3 Amigos for music and toe-tapping fun!
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
I'm going to answer the question of how Germany went from Kaiser to Fuhrer. We'll examine the Weimer Republic, the European challenges after WW1 and specifically the effects of the devastatingly punitive Versailles treaty on the people and government of Germany in the early 20th Century. We'll examine how Hitler was able to both rescue and condemn his adopted homeland. We'll do a deep dive into the everyday German and look at this event as though we were in Germany in 1919 and beyond.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
Walk the Portuguese Central Route of the Camino de Santiago through the eyes of a modern pilgrim. Beginning in Oporto, this session blends practical planning tips, helpful technology, packing guidance, and on‑the‑trail insights with photos and short videos from the journey. We’ll explore the history of the Camino, the story of St. James, and the cultural traditions that shape this ancient pilgrimage. Whether you’re considering the walk yourself or simply curious about the experience, this class offers an engaging look at one of Europe’s most meaningful long‑distance paths.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
This lecture covers the life and times of General George Armstrong Custer. From his early childhood, time at West Point, the Civil War, and to his final days as an Indian Fighter.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
While Europe was trying to destroy itself America was busy selling munitions to the combatants. Great Britain could stop munition ships going to Germany with an Ocean blockade, so Germany had to stop munitions going to the allies at the source - in America.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
The story of the US Army Helicopter pilots told by two who served together in the same battalion - One an Aggie and one a Longhorn. Their paths to the cockpit were different but the mission was the same. They will present the men, the machines and the missions of the 22,000 men who served as US Army helicopter pilots during the Vietnam war 1961 -1970. Both presenters flew troopships as well as gunships during their tour in Vietnam.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
In 2025, our oldest branches of the United States Armed Forces celebrated their 250th anniversary. Since the American Revolution, 40 million individuals have served in its ranks. However, only 3,500 men and one woman have received its highest award for valor—the Medal of Honor. Join us for a two-part lecture commemorating Medal of Honor recipients from Fort Worth, Arlington, and Dallas. Course participants will get an introduction to each recipient’s life before they joined the military, the events and campaigns in which they participated in, and the heroic and self-sacrificing actions that justified their nomination for the Medal of Honor. These recipients saw action during World War II and the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Those Silver Frogs considering participation in this semester’s trip to the National Medal of Honor Museum in Arlington on November 5 will find this course a fitting prelude.
On Campus Session/Tour
|
|
|
|
The Fort Worth Flood of 1949 tells the story of how the Trinity River broke its levees the night of May 17, 1949 —its environmental causes, the destruction during the night, the heroes who stepped up, and how the tragedy reshaped the city’s growth, politics, and public memory. Through archival research and oral history, it describes how the flood devastated neighborhoods, claimed lives, and forced a reckoning with the city’s infrastructure and future stewardship of the most precious resource--water.
Trinity Terrace
|
|
|
|
How much good stuff do we learn before we reach age 21? Memoirist Rix Quinn says we acquire loads of knowledge...and he details it in this program. Much of his data comes from extensive interviews with 50 Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964) whom he interviewed while working on a newspaper research project.
The Stayton
- Section Code: F26FSFHCE246A
- Instructor: Rix Quinn
- Dates: 9/21/2026 - 9/21/2026
- Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
- Sessions: 1
- Days: M
- Building: The Stayton (opens in new tab)
- Room: Dining Room: 11th Floor
|
|
|
|
Tradition looms large in Washington DC at the holidays, and nowhere is tradition more important and public than in the President's house. From presidential Christmas cards to fantastical trees to elaborate gingerbread houses, each family in residence chooses elements of the season to represent the time and their administration. Join me for highlights of Christmases past in the White House.
Online Zoom Session
- Section Code: F26FSFHCE248A
- Instructor: Sharon Harrelson
- Dates: 12/1/2026 - 12/8/2026
- Times: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
- Sessions: 2
- Days: Tu
- Building: Online Class
- Room: Zoom
|
|
|
|
Iwo Jima. Two words that automatically bring to mind one of the most vicious and costly battles of WWII. A two-word shorthand for bravery and sacrifice and the inspiration for numerous books and movies. Come learn about what happened there and maybe even why.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
This lecture provides a better understanding of Japanese immigration to the United States, internment during World War II, and integration and contribution to mainstream American society.
Trinity Terrace
|
|
|
|
The Supreme Court of the United States is the highest court in the land. Throughout history, the Supreme Court has ruled on thousands of cases. Many are considered landmark decisions because they set the precedent for generations to come. Many are controversial and some have been overturned by subsequent Court decisions. Join us to dive into many of these cases; the circumstances, the arguments, the decisions and the opinions of the justices.
Trinity Terrace
|
|
|
|
Great lives of the American Civil War in just 90 minutes each. The presentation includes rare photographs (colorized) and little known aspects of the lives and works of US Grant and Robert E. Lee.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
Les Paul is revered by guitarists in all musical genres for pioneering the solid-body electric guitar, but his legacy reaches far beyond the instrument itself. He was a recording and studio innovator whose contributions include multi-tracking, overdubbing, and other sophisticated studio techniques that have a profound impact even today. Learn more about his impact on modern music, as well as overcoming serious physical challenges.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
Lockheed Martin's Advanced Design group (aka "The Skunkworks") has developed many of the most Aadvanced, successful aircraft in the world which has led to Lockheed Martin being Tarrant County's largest employer for many decades. The history and unique aspects of the Skunkworks will be presented.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
For over fifty years, Meals On Wheels, Inc. of Tarrant County has helped our citizens remain independent in their own homes by providing nutritious meals and a multitude of other services. Most people have heard of this organization, but few know the breadth and depth of this amazing program. This course will be presented by a Meals On Wheels employee, plus a Silver Frog with over 20 years of delivery experience will share details from the front line. You will have the opportunity to get all your questions answered. Tarrant County is a great place to grow old!
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
|
Modern History of Korea
In this course, we will read about the life of Dr. Kyoung-jin Kim. Dr. Kim's life encapsulates the modern history of the Korean Peninsula as he was born in the Japanese puppet state of Manchukuo, Manchuria, in northeastern China in 1936, fled to Seoul in the waning days of the Second World War in 1945 where he lived at first under the US Military Government (1945-1948), then witnessed the birth of the Republic of Korea (1948), survived occupation by North Korea during the Korean War (1950-1953), and finally was able to live in the vibrant democracy that South Korea has become today.
Section Code: F26FSFHCE285A
Dates: 10/15/2026 - 11/5/2026 Times: 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Sessions: 4 Days: Th
Instructor: Samuel Denny
Capacity Remaining: 32
Fee: $0.00
|
|
|
|
Exploring the People and Culture of New Orleans at the Turn of the 20th Century​. We will take a closer look at the deep rooted culture of violence and crime, and the infamous Red-Light District that helped shape the notorious reputation that adheres to New Orleans today. We will also explore many of the personalities related to the early development of New Orleans-style jazz, some of which we will sample.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
Former magazine editor Rix Quinn says a popular feature of many publications is the "looking back" section.
Readers are attracted to others' personal histories, because it helps them avoid future mistakes. And, sharing stories of the past can help strengthen connections with family and friends.
During this workshop, we'll discuss the value of life lessons learned from elders; how discussing past joys can develop appreciation for the present; how reminiscing helps people link the past and the present; how to tell stories about the past that teach lessons for the future; and much more.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
Almost 50 years ago, women first joined the NASA astronaut corps, 20 years after men became astronauts. Sally Ride is famous as America's first woman in space, but scores of equally impressive women astronauts are not as well known. This class introduces all the others, with stories about their paths to space and record-setting careers, set in the context of changes in society and NASA's evolving priorities in space. Women are integral to the history of human spaceflight. Trailblazing, inspiring, amazing women have overcome barriers, excelled, and made their mark in space. Let’s get acquainted with them!
Online Zoom Session
- Section Code: F26FSFHCE301A
- Instructor: Valerie Neal
- Dates: 10/7/2026 - 10/7/2026
- Times: 12:00 AM - 12:00 AM
- Sessions: 1
- Days: W
- Building: Online Class
- Room: Zoom
|
|
|
|
Are you acquainted with the legend of Atlantis? Have you looked into it? Do you have an opinion about its being fact or fiction? If, like me, you find this subject fascinating, then regardless of how you answer these questions you should enjoy this examination of recent evidence that supports surprisingly varied claims that Atlantis did exist, perhaps in an unexpected form, and maybe in an unexpected location.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
Class sessions begin with a 15-30 minute summary of a current societal issue, followed by class discussion. Discussions will be thoughtfull but not heated, eliciting from class members alternative positions and associated rationale. Topics for each class are selected by class members and could include topics such as Climate Change, Tariffs, Welfare and Gender Identity. Class can be repeated since topics will vary for each class.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
Texas was built by cattle drivers, gamblers, ranchers, rebels, musicians, and artists trying to capture a landscape bigger than reason. But many of the best stories never made it into the history books. In this four-week series, we’ll open the archives of TCU Press and explore the surprising people and moments that shaped Fort Worth and Texas. Each class brings one remarkable story to life through books, photographs, and art—sometimes with the authors who uncovered them.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
The Ancient Stoics have much to teach us about how to live well in a turbulent world. This 2000+ year old practical philosophy remains relevant today. You will meet some of the greats, one of whom was an early proponent of women's rights. Another was a slave, and yet another a Roman Emperor. We will cover their core beliefs, discuss modern relevance, and see how Stoic ideas might compliment Christianity. Marcus Aurelius, perhaps the most well-known of these ancient men, once said: “Waste no more time arguing about what a good man should be. Be one.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
In August 1966, the Beatles dropped an album that altered the landscape of popular music. Revolver saw the band take its songwriting, musicianship and production to a stunning new level, with tracks that included the haunting “Eleanor Rigby,” the trippy “Tomorrow Never Knows,” and the driving rocker “Got to Get You Into My Life.” Join us as we continue to celebrate the Beatles at 60 with a close look at an amazing LP that stunned Beatles fans and paved the way for Sgt. Pepper’s the following year.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
This course will explore the causes of the Civil War and examine key battles that shaped its outcome, including Fort Sumter, Bull Run, Fredericksburg, Shiloh, Antietam, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, and Vicksburg.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
The upcoming 250th celebration of the birth of American Democracy offers an excellent opportunity to explore the Four Freedoms -- Freedom of Speech and Expression, Freedom of Worship, Freedom from Want, and Freedom from Fear -- President Roosevelt introduced in his January, 1941 State of the Union Address. World Tensions were high when President Roosevelt introduced these concepts, boldly declaring that they applied to 'people everywhere'. Join our conversation as we discuss opportunities to confront issues of speech, press, assembly, religion as well security, i.e. economic, domestic and global security. What is our responsibility to maintain and protect these Freedoms?
Online Zoom Session
- Section Code: F26FSFHCE300A
- Instructor: Don Mills
- Dates: 9/15/2026 - 10/6/2026
- Times: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
- Sessions: 4
- Days: Tu
- Building: Online Class
- Room: Zoom
|
|
|
|
In 1897 there were numerous reports across the country of moving lights in the night sky, fueling much speculation. Then, on April 17, 1897 there were reports of a mysterious craft crashing in Aurora Texas ... and the burial of a non-human pilot. 51 years before Roswell ... hmm.
Stevenson Oaks
- Section Code: F26FSFHCE198A
- Instructor: Jerry Davis
- Dates: 10/8/2026 - 10/8/2026
- Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
- Sessions: 1
- Days: Th
- Building: Stevenson Oaks
- Room: Fort Worth
|
|
|
|
From 1916 to 1927 the Fort Worth Ku Klux Klan had one of the strongest Klans in the country with over 6,000 members including Civic leaders, Government officials, Clergy, Deputy Sheriffs, and Police officers. They performed good deeds in daylight for public relations reasons and dark deeds at night including the lynching of a black man to terrorize their opponents.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
Join Casey Shelton, senior researcher at the Monuments Men and Women Foundation, as she explores the safeguarding measures and postwar recovery and restitution efforts of the Monuments Men and Women of World War II. Through compelling stories of their extraordinary work in the theater, she reveals how the legacy of these operations continues to shape the preservation of art and cultural heritage today.
Online Zoom Session
- Section Code: F26FSFHCE302A
- Instructor: Casey Shelton
- Dates: 11/4/2026 - 11/4/2026
- Times: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
- Sessions: 1
- Days: W
- Building: Online Class
- Room: Zoom
|
|
|
|
Controversy over the name and route of the Chisholm Trail has persisted over time. The popularity of late nineteenth-century Wild West shows, dime novels, and twentieth-century radio, movie, and television western drama has propelled the bygone era of the cattle trail into myth. The rise of automobile tourism, potential economic impact of tourists, and the appearance of numerous "historical" markers based on little more than hearsay contributed to the Chisholm Trail legend. Primary documents and sources that may have been unavailable to previous historians will be used to offer a new look at the Old Chisholm Trail.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
In 1979 the Grand Mosque in Mecca was taken over by armed men. For two weeks the Saudi Arabian government tried to take the Mosque back. This largely unpublicized action had worldwide religious/political implications that are still affecting us today.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
The name Benedict Arnold is synonymous in American history with the word traitor. Before September 1780, Arnold was considered by the Americans and the British as the best General under George Washington. He was a hero who had saved the Revolution twice. After September, he became despised by both sides.
You will be part of the jury that will judge Benedict Arnold. He will answer questions from a prosecutor and present his side of what happened, before and after he defected to the British. At the end of the trial, you may question Arnold and then you decide the verdict.
Trinity Terrace
|
|
|
|
Anne Moody, Wilma Mankiller, Kazue Togasaki, Lillian Garland, Nancy Ward, Mary Ellen Schattman, Viola Liuzzo, Paula Doress-Worters, Kate Moore Barry, Rose Marie McCoy, and many more. Doctors, scientists, bank owners, freedom fighters, spies, negotiators, authors, musicians, educators, women who faced hardship yet refused to back down. We will share stories of incredible women who changed the course of history, women you likely never heard of or know little about, in an attempt to honor their lives and their work.
Stevenson Oaks
- Section Code: F26FSFHCE297A
- Instructor: Patsy Cipolla, Phyllis Allen
- Dates: 10/1/2026 - 10/1/2026
- Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
- Sessions: 1
- Days: Th
- Building: Stevenson Oaks
- Room: Fort Worth
|
|
|
|
This course will address common assumptions about the US Civil War and present the evidence as to what really happened or what major personalities were really like.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
Drawing on selected Victorian verse, this lecture probes the cultural skirmishes between traditional Christian faith and modern skepticism in nineteenth-century Britain. We will explore the "withdrawing roar" of faith in Matthew Arnold's "Dover Beach" and the cosmic pessimism of Thomas Hardy's "God Forgotten," juxtaposed with the optimistic nature-mysticism of Elizabeth Barrett Browning. From John Henry Newman's self-forgetting humility to the "dappled" insights of Gerard Manley Hopkins and God's dogged pursuit in Francis Thompson's "The Hound of Heaven," we will evaluate as well as ponder how these poets navigated an era of faith, doubt, and the in-between.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
|
Turn back time to the 1960’s and learn about Quality Hill, Fort Worth’s premier silk-stocking neighborhood of the day. Find out who lived on Penn Street and married Elliott Roosevelt, son of President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Eleanor.
What happened to Quality Hill in 1969 that caused the Junior League of Fort Worth to establish a preservation charity named Historic Fort Worth, Inc? Why did the Junior League purchase the 1899 Ball-Eddleman-McFarland House for its first headquarters in 1978? What lessons have been learned to save Fort Worth’s distinct historic identity?
Off-Campus
|
|
|
|
The Caribbean played a crucial yet still underappreciated role in the confrontation between Allied and Axis powers during World War II. In this lecture, we will explore how Caribbean nations including Cuba, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Trinidad, Curaçao, Martinique, and others experienced the critical war years between 1939 and 1945. Frogs will learn how German submarine warfare and Axis invasions of France and Norway transformed regional economies and politics, and how key island nations supported Allied forces via military and air bases and vital resource provisioning.
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
The nearly mythical Norden bombsight made the precision aerial bombing campaign of Germany possible. How did it work? How was it kept so secret? And, did it actually deliver the bombs on-target?
On Campus Session
|
|
|
|
