The collection of the Sphex Club, of Lynchburg, Virginia, includes minutes of meetings, the constitution and bylaws of the Club, a roster of its members, and a listing of Sphex papers presented by members and guests of the Club. In addition to this guide, the collection is outlined in more detail in “Sphex in the Jones Memorial Library,” Chapter VI of the Club history, The Sphex Club of Lynchburg, Virginia: The First One Hundred Years, 1910-2010, by James M. Elson.
Access Rights
Lectures delivered by members appear as papers in the Item Set. Papers are available in print at the library. Select papers have been digitized (including all papers delivered to the Club prior to 1952).
Authors retain copyright to their work. Papers may not be reproduced or reprinted without permission of the author and the library.
Inspired by the work of Carl Sagan, the author discusses brain evolution and the environmental and evolutionary determinants of the rapid increase in brain size and complexity.
In "Fifty Days Out", Joe Burton Linker, Jr. recounts a challenging trek across California's deserts and mountains on a part of the Pacific Crest Trail. With a heavy pack and scarce water, Linker and his companion faced extreme temperatures, rattlesnakes, and tough terrain, including the ascent of Mt. Whitney and crossing Forester Pass. The experience led to a profound appreciation for life's simple pleasures, emphasizing the value of clean water, comfort, and family upon his return.
Text of a lecture given by Michael Gillette for the Sphex Club of Lynchburg, Virginia in February 2009. The lecture covers arguments concerning the origin of the universe and arguments in favor of the existence of God.
Text of a lecture delivered to the Sphex Club on October 9, 2025. In his will, Thomas Jefferson left the Poplar Forest house and farm to his grandson, Francis Eppes. Two years after Jefferson’s death, Eppes sold his inheritance and moved with his family to the Florida Territory. Dr. Wright’s paper explores the reasons for the move and describes Eppes’s life in Florida, where he raised a family and became a successful planter, politician, supporter of education, and instrumental in the expansion of the Episcopal church.
This paper, titled "From Canoe to Packet Boat," details the evolution of river transportation in Virginia, focusing primarily on the transformation from Indian dug-out canoes to the more sophisticated packet boats navigating the James River. It examines the adaptation and innovations in river transport methods due to agricultural needs, economic growth, and geographical challenges, particularly the obstacles posed by the James River itself. The paper illustrates how the development of transportation on the James River was integral to Virginia's economic expansion, particularly the tobacco trade, and highlights significant historical events and figures that influenced these changes.
This paper by Herbert R. Moore recounts the history and impact of the Lynchburg Covenant Fellowship (LCF), a pioneering ecumenical ministry in Lynchburg, Virginia, focusing on its origins in the late 1940s, evolution, and diverse community projects. It details LCF's role in fostering Judeo-Christian unity, addressing social justice issues, and initiating various community programs, including housing development, homelessness solutions, and support services for the marginalized. The narrative emphasizes LCF's commitment to ecumenical collaboration, innovative solutions to urban problems, and the transformative power of faith-driven community service.
George W. Dawson's paper "From Kharkov to Crozet," presented to the SPHEX Club, discusses U.S. immigration policy juxtaposed with the personal histories of Zhanna and Frina Arshanskaya, survivors of the Holocaust. Dawson explores historical U.S. ambivalence towards immigration, from open borders in the 17th century to restrictive laws in the 20th century. His dramatic family story illustrates broader themes of national identity and policy impact, emphasizing shifts in public opinion and policy in response to global and domestic challenges.
Text of a lecture delivered to the Sphex Club in Lynchburg. The paper "From many an ancient river..." by Joe Stinnett, explores the emigration of African Americans from Lynchburg, Virginia, to Liberia between 1828 and 1865, highlighting the 1865 Lynchburg group. Stinnett discusses the motivations behind the colonization movement, the challenges faced by emigrants, and the significant role Lynchburg played in the American Colonization Society’s efforts. Key sources include historical records and personal letters from emigrants.
The paper provides an in-depth exploration of the Rastafarian movement, focusing on its origins, beliefs, and cultural impact. Originating in Jamaica during the 1930s, Rastafarianism is a syncretic religion emphasizing Black empowerment, Pan-Africanism, and a back-to-Africa movement, inspired by Marcus Garvey. The religion grew from less than seventy thousand to over a million adherents globally. Key topics include the historical context of Jamaica, Marcus Garvey's influence, the unique cultural practices of Rastafarians, and the impact of Haile Selassie and Ethiopia on the movement.
James M. Elson's paper, "Generations: Their Influence on You and Your Descendants," examines the cyclical nature of generational influence on society and individual lives. Drawing on theories by Strauss and Howe, Elson outlines how historical events shape generational characteristics and cycles, and how these cycles impact public policy, business practices, and personal decisions.
Rabbi Shapiro's paper dwells on the Cairo Genizah, a collection of documents from the Cairo Jewish community between the 10th and 13th centuries. It consists of tracts, letters, money orders,, book remnants and others that together compose a mosaic of Jewish life. It also includes the Damascus Covenant, describing a lost Jewish sect mentioned in the Qumran scrolls. Shapiro recounts the story of how these documents came to reside at Cambridge University. Its rescue led to the acquisition of other genizas. He recounts details from the documents and discusses what the documents reveal about Jewsih culture of that period, and the great similarities with modern Jewish culture.
Text of a lecture delivered to the Sphex Club in Lynchburg. This presentation by Nancy Marion delves into the evolution of Virginia's road systems from Native American trails through the era of Henry Ford's influence on transportation. The speaker, fascinated by the transformation of Lynchburg and its roads, explores the historical context and development of major routes that have shaped interstate highways today. Through maps and narratives, the presentation covers the transition from reliance on waterways and rugged paths to sophisticated road networks, highlighting significant changes in infrastructure, transportation engineering practices, and the societal shift towards automobile travel. The talk reflects on both the technical advancements in road construction and the broader implications for commerce, mobility, and cultural landscapes in Virginia.
Richard P. Gifford's paper, "Girding for the Battle for Freedom," analyzes the contemporary church-state issue in the United States. It reviews historical church-state relations, critiques the 1963 New York decision to ban the stanza of "America," and argues for the importance of maintaining religious references in public life to preserve true freedom under God.
J. Everette Fauber Jr.'s "Goodbye, Wilderness" explores the ethical and philosophical dichotomy between natural and human-altered worlds. The paper contrasts the inherent cooperation in the animal kingdom with human behavior, questioning moral boundaries and environmental impact. It discusses themes of evolution, natural instincts, and the consequences of technological and societal advancements, ultimately challenging readers to reflect on humanity's role and responsibilities.
Text of a paper delivered to the Sphex Club in Lynchburg. This academic paper critically examines the growth and implications of bureaucratic structures within the U.S. government, particularly during the administrations under President Franklin D. Roosevelt. It highlights the extensive increase in the number of federal bureaus and their employees, spurred predominantly by executive orders, and critiques the inefficiencies and potential threats to democracy posed by these sprawling governmental agencies. The paper discusses historical changes, personnel policies, and the impact of bureaucracy on governmental efficiency and democratic governance.
A discussion of the failure of federal farm policy to keep farmers on their farms, maintain farm income, prevent unnecessary surpluses, be cost-effective, and adapt to changes in productivity.
On September 26, 2024, Julie Doyle illuminated the vital yet underrecognized role of court reporters as guardians of legal records. Drawing from personal and professional histories, she traced the evolution from shorthand to digital stenography, emphasized their impact on justice through cases like Wansley v. Virginia, and addressed myths, technology, and growing shortages within the field. Her talk celebrated court reporters' precision, responsibility, and future importance.
This academic paper explores the life and legacy of Anne Spencer, a notable figure in the Harlem Renaissance. McKendrick delves into Spencer's multifaceted identity as a poet, her experiences with racial dynamics, and her significant contributions to African American literature. Despite the challenge of encapsulating Spencer's 93-year life within a concise presentation, the paper highlights her defiance of societal norms, her nuanced approach to race and identity, and her unique voice in poetry that transcends protest to embody beauty, control, and a profound connection with nature. Spencer's work and life story are contextualized within the broader narrative of the Harlem Renaissance, emphasizing her influence and the challenges she faced in gaining recognition.
The paper by James M. Elson, presented to the Sphex Club in 2000, explores Patrick Henry's role in the Virginia Convention of 1788, focusing on his opposition to the ratification of the U.S. Constitution. Elson details Henry's political philosophy, his eloquent speeches, and his influence on the inclusion of a Bill of Rights. Despite Henry's fears of a centralized government, the Constitution was ultimately ratified.
