Sesquicentennial book on Vernon County history available soon

Sesquicentennial book committee members sort through photos in preparation of the April 2 and 3 distribution of the long-awaited history book. Volunteers have been working to compile and coordinate the book's publication for nearly two years.

* A limited number of copies of the special edition volumes will be available for purchase for a short time.

by Nancy Malcom

Nevada Herald

The long anticipated sesquicentennial Vernon County history book "Nevada & Vernon County's Heritage 1855-2005 Pass It On" is now available.

Those who pre-ordered their books for $75 and those who wish to buy a two-volume set for $100 can pick them up on Saturday April 2 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. or Sunday April 3 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Bushwhacker Museum. Those who submitted photos for the book can collect their photos during those hours as well.

The committee has been working for two years to get all the stories collected, typed, proofread and printed.

Betty Pitts, committee member said, "All the committee members did a fantastic job putting this book together. Lots of hours, talent and dedication made this all possible."

This fine quality set of books holds stories of Vernon County towns, businesses, churches, schools, organizations and families past and present.

The two volume hardback set contains 858 pages depicting histories of people and places unique to Vernon County. The cover is a gold embossed sketch of the courthouse.

"I am very impressed with the quality of this set," Helen Emery, committee member, said. "Everyone who turned in their story is now a part of history."

As Nevada and Vernon County celebrate 150 years in 2005, this book, celebrating the people of Vernon County and their remarkable heritage, will be considered by many citizens a must-have collectible.

Although there are several sets still available, this is a limited printing and once these books are gone, there may not be more available.

After April 3 the books will be on sale at the Bushwhacker Museum as long as quantities last.

For those with a passion for local history and/or genealogy this two volume set will prove to be a continuing asset for their research.

For more information about the book or for ordering information, contact Helen Emery at (417 667-6367, Betty Pitts (417) 465-2558, or The Bushwhacker Museum (417) 667-9602.