Frankfort, NY Explored in New Book

Nov. 18, 2013 - PRLog -- New to Arcadia Publishing’s popular Images of America series is Frankfort from local authors Susan R. Perkins and Caryl A. Hopson. The book boasts more than 200 vintage images.

In 2013, the village of Frankfort celebrated the 150th anniversary of its 1863 incorporation. It was a prime opportunity to recognize the historical heritage of the village and the surrounding township of Frankfort, incorporated in 1796. Many of the original hamlets, such as West Frankfort, Frankfort Center and Frankfort Hill, still exist. Thanks to its advantageous location astride the Erie Canal-West Shore Railroad corridor, the village attracted a wide variety of industry.

The railroad established a major repair-and-renovation facility, which later became home to manufacturing companies producing machine tools, agricultural implements and highway equipment used throughout the nation. The world’s first continuous match-making machine was invented here and the famous aeronauts Carl and Carlotta Myers drew national attention with their involvement in a new national passion: hot-air ballooning. Images of America: Frankfortis a well-rounded reflection of this unique community that will bring back memories for residents.

Highlights of Frankfort include:

•Rarely seen vintage photographs, the majority of which have been donated from the private collections of local residents.
•The story of the historic “Balloon Farm,” which still stands today, once drew national attention and crowds in its heyday in the late 1800s with hot-air balloon ascensions and airships.
•Images from the Herkimer County Fair, the county’s biggest venue and attraction.
•Features notable locals, such as the first African-American baseball player in organized baseball and a WWII arctic survivor.

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.