Take a Look at the History of Aptos in New Book

MT. PLEASANT, S.C. - June 18, 2013 - PRLog -- The newest addition to Arcadia Publishing’s popular Images of America series is Aptos from local author Kevin Newhouse and the Aptos History Museum. The book boasts more than 200 vintage images and memories of days gone by.

Aptos is a coastal town filled with beaches, a federally protected redwood forest, a community college, shopping centers, a golf course and much more. It is also home to the self-proclaimed "World's Shortest Parade," which takes place every Fourth of July.

The true meaning of Aptos lacks definitive evidence; however, all sources agree that it is derived from an Indian word. The most common belief is that Aptos translates to "the meeting of two streams" or some variation of that phrase. The two bodies of water the name describes are known today as the Valencia and Aptos Creeks. Another explanation is that the town is named after a famous Indian chief. A third theory comes from Fr. Juan Crespi's interpretation of the native language on the Portola Expedition of 1769. Although the native people had been here for thousands of years, the first deed of land was not granted to Rafael Castro until 1833.

In its relatively short life, Aptos has changed significantly. Images of America: Aptos celebrates this unique history and allows readers to better understand the city’s modern identity.

Highlights of Aptos include:
•   Rarely before seen images of Aptos and its people, with a large majority being donated from descendants of historically significant families.
•   This is the first published work by Kevin Newhouse, who wrote the book while living in the oldest house in Aptos, The Arano Store.
•   All of the author’s profits from the sale of the book are being donated to The Aptos History Museum.

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/.