New Book Explores the History of Shabbona

Jan. 23, 2012 - PRLog -- New from Arcadia Publishing’s Images of America series is Around Shabbona by local author Nancy Fleming Pardridge. This pictorial history boasts more than 200 vintage images, giving readers a unique opportunity to reconnect with the history that shaped their community.

Nestled on the southern edge of the timber, the town that Shabbona would become grew rapidly but then slowed by not having a railroad. John Ray, John Palm, and Charles Stevens made an agreement with F.E. Hinckley, president of the Chicago & Iowa Railroad, for the purpose of locating the depot and suitable sidetracks in exchange for eight acres of land.

John Palm generously gave the undivided one-half interest in 40 acres of land for a village plat besides giving the right-of-way through 160 acres to the railroad company. His gift to the railroad was double that of any other individual and was the means of inducing others to give. He also gave away a number of lots to encourage the growth and settlement of the village.

The Shabbona-Lee-Rollo Historical Museum has acquired an extensive collection of photographic archives, and volunteers selected the most memorable to go along with the narrative compiled by Nancy Fleming Pardridge, current president of the museum board. She has BA and MA degrees in education and taught in community schools for 25 years as well as being raised in the area. She and her husband currently reside in Shabbona.

Available at area bookstores, independent retailers, and online retailers, or through Arcadia Publishing at (888)-313-2665 or www.arcadiapublishing.com.

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With more than 7,500 local history titles published to date, Arcadia Publishing is the leading publisher of local and regional history in the United States. Widely recognized sepia books feature hundreds of vintage historical images.