The Ouray County Historical Society's (OCHS) Evenings of History 2008 summer lecture series begins on Tuesday, June 17.

Local resident, author and avid hiker Kelvin Kent kicks-off the series with his talk, "Ouray Hiking Trails."

Raised on the island of Jersey, in the British Channel Islands, Kent now calls Ouray home. He has been hiking the San Juan Mountains for over 25 years.

Throughout his life, Kelvin has also participated in several expeditions in Europe, Central America, Africa, the Middle East, Southeast Asia and the Himalayas in Nepal. His talk will highlight Ouray area trails, both modern and historic, that are perfect for hikers of all interests and abilities.

Upcoming 2008 lectures will cover topics ranging from "Mines of Ouray County" to "Marie Scott, Ranching Matriarch of the San Juans" to "Wildflowers of the Colorado Mountains." The series takes place on Tuesday nights from June 17 through July 29. All lectures begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Ouray Community Center, except for the final lecture on July 29, which will be held at the Wright Opera House.

Admission to lectures is free, but donations are appreciated by OCHS. For information and a complete schedule of OCHS summer lectures and events, call the Ouray County Museum at 325-4576 or go to the website