History’s Greatest Hoaxes – Part 2

The origin of the word ‘hoax’ comes from the verb “hocus” as in “hocus pocus”, meaning magic, trickery, and flimflam. It’s appropriate then, that the masterminds behind the various hoaxes that have been committed throughout successive centuries have employed all manner of wizardry and artistry to pull them off. Whether committed for money, notoriety, or simply for the heck of it, society’s fascination with hoaxes and the minds that created them continues to this day. Indeed, in this era of “fake news” and internet scandals, our obsession with hoaxes seems more prevalent than ever. Please join us as we examine twenty of the most successful and outlandish hoaxes throughout history.

The program, History’s Greatest Hoaxes, will be presented in 2 parts by Jim Lewis. The first part will be presented at the Fall Membership Meeting on Tuesday, October 8 at 7:30pm at Vienna Town Hall Council Chambers, and the second part on Tuesday, October 22 at 8pm in the Patrick Henry Library in Vienna (note* this is a location change).
Jim Lewis is a noted local historian, lecturer and tour guide, focusing primarily on the Civil War, WWII, and Cold War years. His bi-annual Hunter Mill Rd. Corridor Historical Tour has been a favorite for years. He’s also authored 30-plus historical markers and been a past “Lord Fairfax” designate.