The BCHS will display its collection of the drawings, paintings and art created by Hamilton’s internationally known children’s author Robert McCloskey during the McCloskey Walk on May 12.

The walk, sponsored by the Lane Library, the McCloskey Museum and the Butler County Historical Society, begins at 9 a.m. at the library, 300 N. Third Street., and leads past various sites before ending at Heritage Hall on High Street at the bridge. Walk participants can view the BCHS McCloskey collection only from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

On Friday evening, May 11, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., an informal wine and cheese reception for society members only will be held throughout the historical society complex. Members will have the opportunity to see McCloskey’s art and hear Lane Library Youth Services Manager Gratia Banta provide information about the various paintings and drawings on display. The wine and cheese reception is free for BCHS members who are asked to RSVP for the event by calling 513-896-9930.

Robert McCloskey graduated from Hamilton High in 1932 and achieved his greatest success as an author and illustrator of children’s books. His eight books have sold more than six million copies and continue to be popular today. McCloskey won the Caldecott Medal in 1942 when Make Way for Ducklings, his most popular book, was named the most distinguished American picture book for children. He won a second Caldecott Medal in 1958 with Time of Wonder and won or shared the runner-up Caldecott Honor Book prize with three of his other books.