Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, southwest of Ottawa, Almonte started out in the early 1800s as a mill town and textile centre. Today it is a thriving town that is as conscious of its heritage as it is in tune with the diversity of modern life. Almonte is home to a growing community of artists and folks from all walks of life who cherish the friendly atmosphere of a small town. Its cultural offerings include art galleries and other exhibits & festivals, an extensive library, live theatre, an independent book store, numerous fine restaurants, an international woodworking school, a fully equipped recording studio, a variety of museums, and Almonte in Concert, an annual concert series broadcast nationally on CBC Radio. Early in 2004 a further star attraction was added to this mix: a lecture series that provides intellectual stimulation to the area's residents on a wide range of subjects. The choice of lecture topics is somewhat eclectic. The series' organizers seek out speakers who combine personality and presentational talent with acknowledged expertise in their chosen subject. The Almonte Lectures series was the brainchild of a retired Chemistry Professor at Carleton University, Donald Wiles, who has been involved with a successful similar initiative at Carleton University. Don Wiles was also the series' first speaker, in February 2004, presenting his lecture on the Chemistry of Colour. ""