“Irene Adler: The Only Woman to Outsmart Sherlock Holmes”

Peoria Historical Society will present “Irene Adler: The Only Woman to Outsmart Sherlock Holmes” at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 22 at John C. Flanagan House Museum, 924 NE Glen Oak Ave.  

Local librarian and actress Laura Keyes will portray Adler, an adventuress and opera diva in Sherlock Holmes stories written by Arthur Conan Doyle.  

“To the world’s greatest detective, Sherlock Holmes, Adler is always called simply ‘The Woman,’” said Peoria Historical Society trustee Trisha Noack, who is co-organizing the event. “In this presentation, we will hear the famous tale of their meeting, discover how she outsmarted Holmes and see why she had such a profound effect on his life and career.” 

Keyes has degrees in English literature and library studies. She gives performances and lectures on a variety of history-related topics. 

Tickets are $15 at 309tix.com or by calling the Peoria Historical Society at 309-674-1921. A tour of the 1837 Flanagan House, which is the oldest standing house in Peoria is included.