Events

I am available to speak to and to sing for churches, clubs, and other organizations about a variety of topics. I have given presentations in Idaho, Indiana, Georgia, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, and Tennessee. View a list of possible presentations, or submit a request for me to visit your group.

2008

July 5 in Mansfield, OH

What: One Soldier's Story with John Notgrass and The Faith of America's Presidents with Daniel J. Mount
Where: Mansfield Christian School, 500 Logan Road, Mansfield, OH
When: Saturday, July 5, at 5:00 p.m.
Cost: Free, but please RSVP
Contact: John Notgrass, 931-268-1680

July 8 in Smyrna, TN

What: Recollections of a Confederate Soldier (private event)
Where: Sam Davis Home, Smyrna, TN
When: Tuesday, July 8
Contact: www.samdavishome.org

August 2 in Bagdad, KY

What: One Soldier's Story at the Homeschool Alumni National Reunion
When: Saturday, August 2
Contact: homeschoolalumni.org

August 12 in Cookeville, TN

What: Recollections of a Confederate Soldier at the Upper Cumberland Civil War Round Table
Where: First Presbyterian Church, 20 N. Dixie Ave., Cookeville, TN
When: Tuesday, August 12, at 6:30 p.m.
Cost: Free for students and first-time visitors. Other visitors are asked to donate $3 per person.
Contact: John Notgrass, 931-268-1680

2009

April 6 in Chattanooga, TN

What: Recollections of a Confederate Soldier (school program)
Where: Boyd-Buchanan School, Chattanooga, TN
When: Monday, April 6
Contact: bbschool.org

Feedback

First-Person History

"It was almost like a time machine. John Notgrass transported the students back into another time period. Dressed in uniform (his grandfather's), John took students back into the youth of his grandfather and then carried them forward into WWII. The students were enthralled with his rendition of stories gleaned from the personal experiences of John's grandfather, what a treasure trove of history which John aptly shared with the classes! He fully put himself into the part and relived events, both sad and hilarious. I can barely wait for John's next presentation." -- Tennessee

"What a blessing [One Soldier's Story] was!!!...Thanks for stepping out in faith and for all the work that you put into interviewing your grandfather and preparing your presentation. I enjoyed it, was inspired to keep going and learned some new history. Thanks for your boldness in proclaiming the Lord and may He open up many doors for you to share." -- Indiana

"He was excellent." -- North Carolina

"What a memory you have (can you spare a few brain cells?) and a knack for story telling. We felt you really WERE the young man you portrayed [Sam Watkins], and you made us laugh and cry and envision the war in a personal, rather than merely factual, way." -- Tennessee

"I am ten and don't normally like people talking but I liked this." -- North Carolina

"John Notgrass needs to develop more characters and do it again!" -- Indiana

"Great history lesson told in a captivating story form." -- North Carolina

Speaking

"His presentations are biblical, clear and sincere. What I appreciate most about John is his commitment to Christ and his solid Christian worldview. In an age of much confusion and minimization of Biblical living, John embodies the qualities of intentional living. Besides being an excellent speaker, he also is a historical re-enactor and singer/songwriter. I heartily recommend John Notgrass and encourage Churches and Home School organizations to book John for your next event." -- Missouri

"Thank you for sharing an edifying workshop." -- North Carolina

"He is a very good speaker. . . . When he talks to us it seems like he is talking to you personally." -- North Carolina

"Your talk was very inspiring and I look forward to reading and sharing your book with family members and friends." -- Tennessee

Music

"Our church is so grateful that you came and shared your music ministry with us. Everyone commented on what a great event it was! We were blessed by the content and delivery of the messages that were woven within your songs. Your thoughts displayed maturity, deep insight, discernment, and humor. You kept our minds sharp and our souls entertained. We appreciated the Biblically sound content of your songs. The skill and ease of your performance was very enjoyable. But, one of the greatest blessings that I received was seeing a young man so right with God, and so able to encourage others by his very presence. Please feel free to come back! We'd love to have you with us again." -- Tennessee

"It is amazing to me that you have been able to write such great lyrics." -- Idaho

"You have such talent as a song writer. It is wonderful to listen to your music and we are thankful you honor and praise God with your gift. Keep up the fantastic work. We look forward to your next CD." -- Indiana

"At times I think it will have to have it surgically removed from our CD player in the van. All the songs are known by heart. Even [the 2-year-old] can sing along with you, John. It is definitely the kids' favorite. Thank you so much for the songs from your family. They are truly a ministry." -- Indiana

Past Presentations

Here are some of the organizations that have hosted me in the past:

Artios Academy, Nashville, TN
Biblical Worldview Conference, Boise, ID
Blount Home Education Association, Maryville, TN
Calvary Christian Church, Cookeville, TN
Cookeville High School, Cookeville, TN
Cornerstone Christian Church, Livingston, TN
Christian Home Educators Fellowship, St. Charles, MO
Christian Home Educators of Ohio, Columbus, OH
The Family Vision Library, St. Charles, MO
First United Methodist Church, Gainesboro, TN
Gainesboro Church of Christ, Gainesboro, TN
Home Educators Encouragement Alliance, Atlanta, GA
H.O.M.E. Homeschool Group, Nashville, TN
Hopewell Church Covenant Family School, Columbia, TN
Indiana Association of Home Educators, Indianapolis, IN
Jackson County Historical Society, Gainesboro, TN
New Hope Christian Academy, Gainesboro, TN
North Carolinians for Home Education, Winston-Salem, NC
Secret City Festival, Oak Ridge, TN