Mr. John Notgrass:  Homeschool Conference Speaker and Workshop Leader Details

• Social Studies: Civics, Government, or Political Science

One Soldier's Story: A Tennessean in WWII

John's grandfather Wesley Notgrass (1915-2007) joined the United States Army in 1941 and served for four years, one month, and seven days in the United States and Europe during World War II. Based on his grandfather's recollections and wearing his grandfather's uniform, John steps into character to share Wesley's life story in a first-person narrative, from growing up in the 1920s and 30s through his experiences during the war. The presentation is illustrated with photographs from Wesley's collection.

The Life of Laura Ingalls Wilder in Story and Song

Laura Ingalls Wilder (1867-1957) left a lasting impact on American literature with her Little House series of books. In this presentation, John Notgrass takes you on a virtual tour of the places Laura lived, shares stories that didn't make it into her books, and performs songs that the Ingalls family enjoyed.

Places He Went: The Life of Theodore Roosevelt

Theodore Roosevelt (1858-1919) grew up in New York City, attended Harvard, and entered a political career as a young man. He held local, state, and national positions and traveled extensively throughout his life--to Europe, Africa, and the Middle East; Cuba, Panama, and Brazil; and across the United States. Join John Notgrass on a worldwide tour of the places Roosevelt lived, studied, worked, fought, and explored.

And Can It Be: The Life of Charles Wesley

Charles Wesley (1707-1788) composed over 6,000 hymns that expressed his amazement at God's mercy and called God's people to holiness. This program, told from the perspective of Charles Wesley himself, is based in large part on his journals and hymns. It explores his life at home with his parents Samuel and Susanna, his education, his conversion, and his ministry in the context of the religious history of England.

Building a Kingdom: The Life of Alfred the Great

Alfred (c. 848-899) is the only English king remembered as “the Great”. During the 9th century, England faced multiple waves of Viking raiders and settlers. Alfred rose to prominence by successfully challenging them in war, but he was also an accomplished leader in peace as he promoted religion, education, and justice. Dressed in medieval attire, John relates Alfred’s story in a first-person narrative.

• Historical actor and musician
• Business manager for Notgrass Company

John is a follower of Jesus Christ. He is thankful for the training his parents, Ray and Charlene Notgrass, gave him, and his goal is to be a great husband and father and a blessing to people.

In addition to managing Notgrass History, John tells the stories of real people from history in first-person history presentations. He also enjoys English Country and contra dancing and Euro-style board games.