Past and Present

The Past and Present American history book series offers a special view of American life by placing historical images side-by-side with contemporary photographs. Witness for yourself how towns like Concord, Capitol Hill, and Exeter have changed throughout the years. Understand the evolution of American enterprises, from the coal industry in southwestern Pennsylvania to the railways of Los Angeles. These Past and Present books help illuminate the connections between America’s yesterday and its tomorrow.

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Alton

9781467161671

$24.99

Alton, Illinois, is a historic river town with a fascinating history. It was the home of multiple Native American tribes and later served as a busy river port. It played an important role in the Civil War and became a major industrial town. The end of the 20th century marked great changes as Alton lost much of its industrial base and population, although it was rejuvenated by new industry and commerce.

Michael Barr Mossman, a graduate of Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, grew up in Alton. The main sources for this book are Robert K. Graul (longtime photographer for the Alton Telegraph) and the Hayner Public Library District.

Springfield

9781467108928

$23.99

After undergoing periods of dormancy, neglect, and occasional attempts at revitalization, Springfield’s downtown area is currently experiencing a resurgence of change and growth.

This appreciation of Springfield’s historic architecture is evident in the restoration of once-neglected historic buildings that are now restaurants, businesses, and lofts. This renaissance extends from the public square to what was once North Springfield and beyond.

Connie Yen is an author, historian, and archivist. She has lived in Springfield most of her life and has a passion for local history.

Arkansas City

9781467161954

$24.99

Journalist and Ark City native Foss Farrar has written extensively about the history of his hometown. He shares a photo collection to illustrate its history.

Arkansas City grew quickly from a dusty frontier town in 1870 into a thriving commercial center in south-central Kansas. Nestled between two rivers, the town's location on the border with Indian Territory (now Oklahoma) provided trade advantages that brought in railroads, merchants, and seekers of free land at the time of the Oklahoma land rushes.