The Superstition Mountain Museum’s free lecture series “Legends and Lore of the Superstitions and More” began Thursday, Jan. 13.

The series at the museum, 4087 E. Apache Trail (State Route 88) in Apache Junction, brings together local scholars, personalities, historians, artists and authors to introduce attendees to the rich culture of our region, according to a release.

Lectures are held at 2 p.m. Thursdays in the museum’s outdoor amphitheater.

To enjoy the presentations fully:

• Bring your own lawn chair;
• Don’t forget a hat and sunscreen;
• Please, no smoking;
• Please don’t leave your dog in vehicle;
• Coffee and cookies will be available for purchase with all of proceeds going to the museum for continuing educational programs; and
• Come early and have lunch on the grounds — food will be available for purchase.

All Superstition Mountain Museum programs and presentations are subject to change. Go to SuperstitionMountainMuseum.org for the latest information.

The presenters and dates are:

• April 7, Vince Simpson on “Early Railroading in Arizona” — Local railroad enthusiast and historian Simpson will be talking about the role the railroads played in the building of Arizona. The coming of the railroad was one of the major factors in accomplishing the settlement of the West. Railroads in the state of Arizona got their start in 1877 when the Southern Pacific arrived in Yuma on its way to completing its line to Tucson in 1880. After retiring from IBM as senior manager with 30 years of domestic and international assignments, Simpson has experienced significant difficulties in staying retired, which has led to a number of adventures including duties as president/CEO of an electronics technology company, an adjunct professorship at a state university, and even a couple of years managing large operations for the U.S. Department of Commerce. Somewhere in the far distant past, he also served in the U.S. Army and accumulated degrees in engineering, math, and business.