Local Author Pens New History Book on Huntington's Best

Dec. 10, 2012 - PRLog -- The latest edition to Arcadia Publishing’s new Legendary Locals imprint is Legendary Locals of Huntington, by local author James E. Casto. Filled with an average of 180 images and a new design, this people-centric imprint focuses on newsworthy and noteworthy individuals and groups who have built and shaped their communities.

Founded in 1871 by Collis P. Huntington, the rail tycoon’s namesake city thrived as a gateway to the coalfields of southern West Virginia. The city’s earliest leaders included Mayor Rufus Switzer, who created one of the community’s true jewels, Ritter Park, and John Hooe Russel, who opened the city’s first bank and, when it was robbed, jumped on his horse and gave chase to the bandits.

Over the years, Huntington has been home to such varied individuals as Carter Woodson, the father of Black History Month; Dr. Henry D. Hatfield, who was West Virginia governor but said he would rather be known as a “country doctor;” Dagmar, the blonde bombshell of 1950s television; basketball star Hal Greer; golfing great Bill Campbell; Stella Fuller, who spent her life ministering to Huntington’s poor; and the spectacularly generous Joan Edwards, who gave away $65 million. Legendary Locals of Huntington captures their stories and many others in a striking panorama of a remarkable community.

Join the Author for a Book Signing!

When: Saturday, January 12, 2013 from 4:00-6:00 p.m.
Where: Empire Books & News
30 Pullman Square, Huntington, WV 25701

Retired Huntington newspaperman James E. Casto is the author of five previous Arcadia Publishing books. In 2006, the Cabell County Public Library paid tribute to his efforts as a historian by naming its James E. Casto Local History Room in his honor.

Available at area bookstores, independent retailers, and online retailers, or at www.LegendaryLocals.com or (888)-313-2665.  

Each book in Arcadia Publishing’s Legendary Locals imprint delves into the history of some of the unique individuals and groups, past and present, who have made a memorable impact on their community throughout its history.