Reflections on the Björklunden Seminar Experience Over Time
by Kathy Ramer Bourne ‘57
It’s the unique quality of experiences that has made traveling to Björklunden a “must do” each summer. Treasured memories of exemplary teachers who were so stimulating that it was sometimes difficult to break for lunch.
My first classes were Dale Duesing’s opera classes. Residents filled the lodge for the week he was there each summer, and their numbers were boosted by commuters. One learned to enroll as soon as class registration opened or else miss the opportunity. Vail Hall was filled as participants listened to music and enjoyed Dale’s anecdotes about singing with major opera stars of the twentieth century. As newcomers to the Björklunden seminars, we were in awe of the experience.
Later, I spent several summers in a week’s class with Jane Schulenburg learning more about medieval history. Her knowledge was deep and broad and presentations combined lectures, constant visuals and valued handouts. The notebooks from Jane’s classes and several shelves of books she recommended are still providing information and pleasure. We shared a love of embroidery and its meaning in the lives of women throughout history.
Seminar stalwart, Kathy Ramer Bourne '57
Music and medieval studies had been interests since my high school days. However, it was from curiosity and lack of understanding of a culture different from mine that led me to take a class from Peter Thomas, reading a book of short stories by Russian authors. The class was small and enthusiastic, reading closely and discussing deeply. For me, it exemplified what I call the liberal arts mode of inquiry and my brain caught fire. Book shelves filled rapidly. There are a number of us from that first class who return each summer for another deep dive into reading and, more recently, the related films. Each year we benefit from Peter’s love of and enthusiasm for Russian literature and his delight in sharing his insights.
As I leave each summer, I look forward to returning for the friendships, life expanding stimulation and the “soul food” of the beautiful forest by the lake.
Our forest on the water enjoys a special kind of light. Photo: Mark franke
