We're honoring 100 years of one of the most influential poets on the San Francisco scene. Featuring original letters on display for the first time, plus video tributes from Peter Coyote, Huey Lewis, and others.

Lew Welch Centennial

Sun. August 16, 6pm

Join us for an evening honoring the life and legacy of poet Lew Welch.

Lew Welch Centennial Tickets

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For the first time ever, we’re putting a selection of Welch’s original letters on display, full of personal detail and never before seen by the public. Each one is written on a two-foot scroll, in a format reminiscent of (and evidently inspired by) Jack Kerouac.

We’ll also be sharing some of Lew’s poetry, video of Lew’s partner Magda Cregg, a short film by Gary Yost featuring dramatic audio of Welch reciting his poem “The Song Mt. Tamalpais Sings,” along with video tributes from Huey Lewis (Welch’s stepson), and Peter Coyote, and speakers including Steve Heilig, Blaise Zerega, and Jerry Cimino.

In 1971, Lew Welch walked into the Sierra foothills and was never found. What he left behind was a body of work and a lasting influence that transcended the San Francisco Beat scene, the Sixties counterculture and beyond.

Standard CCM admission applies. Members get free admission.

Get the full CCM experience: Arrive early and take in the museum exhibits, enjoy the event, and browse the bookshop on your way out!