MARQUETTE — Louis Graveraet Kaufman is a name etched into the fabric of Marquette’s history, gracing schools, buildings and landmarks throughout the city. Now, delve into the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of this remarkable figure with Ann Berman, author of “Louis Graveraet Kaufman: The Fabulous Michigan Gatsby Who Conquered Wall Street, Took Over General Motors, and Built the World’s Tallest Building.” This event will take place in the Peter White Public Library Community Room from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 26.

This one-of-a-kind event features a captivating live conversation between Berman and Peter Kaufman, a direct descendant of Louis Graveraet Kaufman, who will share intimate insights and untold family stories.

The evening will explore Kaufman’s incredible journey–from his “bare-foot boy” beginnings in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to his rise as a trailblazing financier. Kaufman built New York’s first branch banking network, financed the Empire State Building during the Great Depression, and orchestrated the pivotal 1916 takeover of General Motors. In Marquette, he left a lasting legacy with the construction of Granot Loma, the world’s largest log lodge, and hosted glamorous Prohibition-era gatherings that became the stuff of legend.