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.
In Memoriam by Joan S. Jones is a deeply reflective paper dedicated to Helen Calvert, exploring the profound impact of the Scramble for Africa from approximately 1876 to 1912. Through meticulous analysis of Thomas Pakenham's extensive research, Jones encapsulates the frenzied annexation of Africa by European powers, driven by imperialistic ambitions and a disregard for indigenous sovereignties. The narrative weaves through various historical milestones, including the roles of explorers like Stanley and de Brazza, the strategic military and diplomatic maneuvers of European nations, and the eventual partitioning of the continent. Jones highlights the complex interplay of exploration, exploitation, and the eventual push towards independence, illustrating the enduring consequences of colonialism.
James A. Huston’s paper, presented to the SPHEX Club of Lynchburg on October 22, 2009, explores the phenomenon of how myths and misinformation can spread and become accepted as truth. The paper is structured into eight sections, each discussing various anecdotes and examples, including humorous misattributions, psychological warfare, frivolous lawsuits, and pressures on witnesses. The central theme highlights the unintended consequences of information manipulation and the creation of urban legends.
Text of a lecture delivered to the Sphex Club on January 8, 2026. In this reflective SPHEX presentation, Kimball Payne explores the nature of beauty, especially in natural landscapes, asking whether beauty is objective, subjective, or both. Inspired by moments spent outdoors, he surveys philosophical, psychological, scientific, and artistic theories of beauty, drawing on thinkers from Plato and Kant to modern neuroscientists and landscape researchers. Payne examines attempts to measure scenic beauty through surveys, eye-tracking, neuroscience, fractals, the Golden Ratio, and artificial intelligence, while questioning whether scientific methods can fully explain aesthetic experience. He argues that beauty involves emotional, spiritual, and sensory dimensions that transcend pure measurement. Ultimately, he concludes that beauty exists inherently in creation but is perceived through individual experience, culture, and circumstance, and that people discover beauty by slowing down and paying attention.
Text of a paper delivered to the Sphex Club in Lynchburg. The paper "Industry and Civilization" by S. Wells Utley discusses the historical importance and societal contributions of industry. Utley criticizes contemporary attitudes that belittle industrial achievements and emphasizes that industry has been fundamental in the progress of civilizations by creating surplus wealth, driving cultural advancements, and opposing war. The paper underscores the necessity of preserving industrial freedom and warns against increasing government intervention.
Raymond H. Williamson's paper "Inflation Revisited," explores historical inflationary periods to derive lessons for the present. The paper covers early instances of inflation, such as coin devaluation by ancient Romans and Henry VIII, and examines major hyper-inflations, including post-WWI Germany and 1946 Hungary. Williamson assesses the U.S. inflation situation, highlighting the role of the Federal Reserve and Congressional spending, and warns of the potential for hyper-inflation in the U.S., stressing the importance of redeemable currency standards.
This paper by Dennis S. Roberts explores the dynamic history of marriage, highlighting its fluid nature and continuous evolution over centuries. It dissects the varied forms of marriage, from monogamous to same-sex, and how economic, social, and political changes have shaped the institution. The discourse on marriage equality and the legal, theological, and social battles it has engendered are central, illustrating the deeply personal and societal implications. Key themes include the non-traditional nature of marriage, its role in power and wealth preservation, the shift towards love-based unions, and the impact of gender equality and gay rights movements on the institution. The paper concludes optimistically, noting marriage's resilience and the hopeful expansion of marriage rights.
Text of a paper delivered to the Sphex Club in Lynchburg. The paper "Is Democracy Sufficient?" by Ex-Senator A.F. Thomas addresses the evolving challenges and opportunities of democracy in a changing world. It emphasizes the need for democracy to adapt to new societal structures and underscores the importance of equality, individual rights, and moral law. Thomas critiques both extreme individualism and class-based governance, advocating for a balanced approach that integrates democratic principles with economic and social reforms.
Text of a lecture delivered to the Sphex Club of Lynchburg. Robert Chambliss Light's presentation delves into the history, operation, and controversies surrounding the U.S. Presidential Electoral College. Light articulates the Electoral College's origins from the 1787 Constitutional Convention, emphasizing its design to prevent mob rule and ensure a balanced representation of states in presidential elections. He defends the system as a crucial element of the U.S.'s democratic republic framework, highlighting its benefits in decentralizing elections and containing electoral disputes. Light critiques proposals for its abolition, particularly the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, for potentially undermining state sovereignty and increasing risks of electoral fraud.
In "It Pays to Increase Your Word Power," William T. Johnson explores the life and work of Isaac Willis Russell, a key figure in the study of neologisms and the evolution of the English language. Johnson highlights Russell's academic background, his role at the University of Alabama, and his contributions to understanding how language adapts to societal and technological changes. Interesting entries from Dr. Russell's publication, "Among New Words" from the mid-1940s to the mid-1980s are featured. The paper also reflects on Johnson's personal connection to Russell, who was Johnson's grandfather, showcasing the profound influence Russell had on his understanding and appreciation of language, especially Shakespearean literature.
Katie Webb Cyphert's presentation "It's A Little Stuffy In Here" discusses American consumerism's impact, emphasizing the excessive accumulation of possessions. The paper explores the growth of minimalism and decluttering trends as counter-movements, featuring methods like Marie Kondo's and various online support groups. It also details the severity of hoarding disorder, now recognized in the DSM-5, and stresses the necessity for community-based support systems, using local data and national statistics to underline its prevalence and social impact.
Text of a lecture delivered to the Sphex Club in Lynchburg. Julius Sigler's presentation explores the concept of "the American Way" through personal anecdotes and historical analysis. Growing up in rural Florida, Sigler's early life was marked by modest beginnings and a keen awareness of societal values and injustices, deeply influenced by his family, education, and significant national events. His talk reflects on America's identity, questioning national exceptionalism and morality against the backdrop of historical actions and current realities. Sigler examines the foundational beliefs of freedom, equality, and justice in America, juxtaposing them with the nation's sometimes contradictory actions and policies. His narrative spans early personal experiences, through critical reflections on national ideals, to an examination of America's role in global affairs, ultimately inviting a broader conversation on what constitutes the American essence.
Herbert R. Moore Jr.'s paper, "It's Better to Be Wrong Than Asleep," explores the life and legacy of Beverly Roy Cosby, a Lynchburg, Virginia, minister known for his humble and transformative community work. Moore highlights Cosby's foundational role in the Church of the Covenant and Lynchburg Covenant Fellowship, emphasizing his commitment to inclusivity, justice, and serving the underprivileged. Drawing on personal anecdotes and contributions from those close to Cosby, the paper paints a portrait of a visionary leader whose impact on Lynchburg's social and religious landscape was profound, despite preferring to remain out of the spotlight. Cosby's philosophy—that making an effort is preferable to inaction—even if it leads to mistakes, underpins his lifelong dedication to service and community betterment.
Text of a lecture to the Sphex Club in Lynchburg. Robert C. Wood III's presentation to the Sphex Club, titled "It's Great to Be Alive and Living in Lynchburg - Today," humorously explores a fictional scenario where John Lynch, the founder of Lynchburg, returns after 200 years. Through a series of conversations with the city's manager and other officials, Lynch discusses the historical and contemporary economic and civic dynamics of Lynchburg, emphasizing the city's adaptation to change and ongoing efforts towards business and community development.
Peter Marcy's paper, "Jasper," initially sets out to explore leadership and management theories but shifts focus to highlight the entrepreneurial and inventive genius of Josiah Wedgwood, an 18th-century industrial leader. Marcy traces Wedgwood's contributions to the development of modern ceramics, his innovative marketing strategies, and his impact on industrial manufacturing processes. The paper details Wedgwood's development of new pottery forms like Jasper ware, his establishment of effective marketing through showrooms and royal endorsements, and his influence on factory organization and worker welfare. Marcy concludes by reflecting on Wedgwood's lasting legacy in commerce and art, positioning him as a pivotal figure in the transition to modern industrial society.
Text of a lecture to the Sphex Club in Lynchburg. A. F. Thomas's address to the SPHEX Club, titled "Jesus or Chaos?", explores the essence and role of religion in human life. He argues that religion is a personal connection between individuals and God, influencing both intellectual and emotional development. Thomas discusses various religious systems, emphasizing the need for genuine spiritual growth and ethical conduct, while critiquing dogmatic and superficial religious practices.
The paper "John Wilkes: A Prophet Who Never Intended To Be One" by Dr. Philip Thayer, presented to the SPHEX Club in 1979, examines the life and impact of John Wilkes, a controversial 18th-century British political figure. Thayer explores Wilkes' role in challenging the British establishment, highlighting his use of sensationalism and popular support to advocate for liberty and free speech. Despite his flaws, Wilkes' legacy is seen as a testament to personal courage and the struggle for civil rights.
Text of a lecture delivered to the Sphex Club in Lynchburg. Using eyewitness accounts and commentaties of historians, supplemented by historic and contemporaty photographs, the paper explores the impact and the aftermath of the Battle of Gettysburg on the village and surrounding Adams County. A subsidiary theme is the experience of Private James Maurice Moore, a member of the Lynchburg Home Guard who was wounded and captured in the battle.
An exploration of the relationship between quantum mechanics and free will. The arguments examined explore aspects of being that transcend time. The author posits the existence of an immortal soul.
Walter R. Wineman’s paper, "Just Tolerable" - Witchcraft or Medicine?, explores the historical attitudes toward health and medicine in early America, highlighting the contrasts between past and present medical practices. The paper discusses the impact of diseases, the primitive understanding of health, and the transition from superstitious treatments to more scientific approaches. Wineman also touches on the societal implications of medical practices and the roles of various figures in the medical field during the 17th and 18th centuries.
Jo Ellen Parker's essay explores the concept of "moral panic" related to new technologies, using historical and contemporary examples to illustrate how innovations such as electric lighting, the telegraph, and internet have triggered societal fears, particularly regarding their impacts on time, space, and human relationships. Parker discusses anthropologist Genevieve Bell's hypothesis on technology-induced moral panic and extends the discussion to artificial intelligence, using the Turing test and cultural representations of AI to ponder the evolving relationship between humans and technology, and how these advancements challenge our understanding of humanity.
