The Cowlitz County Historical Museum First Thursday Speaker Series is back, with tonight’s show being a special second Thursday addition. The show will feature author Fred Baxter as he presents his book, “Historic Homes of the Old West Side: The Neighborhood at the Heart of the Planned City of Longview, Washington,” which shares a brief history of Longview and the neighborhood to the west of Longview’s Civic Center.

The book features full-color photos of the vintage homes that showcase a diverse representation of popular American architectural styles from the first half of the 20th century. Fred will share with us his inspiration for writing his book, as well as discuss the book’s contents. There will be copies available for sale and author signing after the program.

Tonight’s show is at 7 p.m. at the museum at 405 Allen Street in Kelso.