Judy Hoffman is a historian and lifelong resident of the Alton/Godfrey area. In her book, God's Portion: Godfrey, Illinois 1817-1865, Ms. Hoffman tells the story of the founding of Godfrey. The book starts with the Lewis and Clark expedition and details the cooperation among runaway slaves, free blacks, and white abolitionists as well as commercial empire, abolition, temperance, the education of women, and railroad expansion. James C. Price of Lewis & Clark Community College claims that the book is "a must-read for anyone who is serious about our local history and the culture that was produced here," and B.J. Drayer, Historian of Monticello Seminary College calls it "an invaluable source for future scholars and writers." Ms. Hoffman is also the former host of the popular radio show "Hey Jude," which was devoted to local area history and current events. She serves on numerous boards and in civic organizations dedicated to the improvement of the Alton/Godfrey area, including the Hoffman Memorial Gardens at Great Rivers Park, where she acts as an advisor.
Select Illinois Humanities Council programs are now available for listening or download at Chicago Public Media (WBEZ) as a part of Chicago Amplified, a web-based audio library of diverse public events recorded throughout the Chicago region.
