History of Florence Shown in New Local Book

MT. PLEASANT, S.C. - April 3, 2013 - PRLog -- The newest addition to Arcadia Publishing’s popular Images of America series is Florence from local authors Jason A. Clark and Craig P. Della Penna. The book boasts more than 200 vintage images and memories of days gone by.

In 1852, the community that began as Broughton's Meadow officially became the Village of Florence. This small, New England community prospered with the rise of the silk industry and its businesses, such as the Northampton Silk Company, the Nonotuck Silk Company and Corticelli Silk Mills. Local mills and factories manufactured goods that were shipped around the world while local shops and storefronts continued to grow and change the face of the village.

The population expanded due to the success of companies like the Florence Casket Company and Florence Savings, which created more jobs. By the turn of the 20th century, Florence was well established with over 3,500 residents. The community had several churches, a modern schoolhouse, the Lilly Library, a thriving business center and its own trolley line which ran to and from Northampton.

Florence provides a look at the residents, businesses and organizations that came to shape the life of this community.

Highlights of Florence include:
•   The Howes Brothers’ View of Florence
•   Merchants, Industries and Iconic Structures
•   A Walk Down Main Street
•   Frank Newhall Look Memorial Park
•   Paintings and Postcards of Florence

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

Arcadia Publishing is the leading publisher of local and regional history in the United States.  Our mission is to make history accessible and meaningful through the publication of books on the heritage of America’s people and places.  Have we done a book on your town?  Visit www.arcadiapublishing.com.