Local Woman Pens Third Historical Book

CLEARFIELD – In her third book with Arcadia Publishing, Julie Rae Rickard tells the story of Curwensville’s past through over 200 vintage photographs.

From the days of the lumber industry to the brick making, tannery and quarries, Curwensville has come a long way from its humble beginnings.

Rickard previously authored ‘Clearfield County’ and ‘Clearfield’ through Arcadia Publishing.

Rickard said that after her last book a lot of people asked her when she was going to do another book. She proposed the idea for ‘Around Curwensville’ in January/February of 2007. Her publisher came back with a July deadline.

Rickard said she went to the Pike-Curwensville Historical Society for material as well as the Clearfield County Historical Society. She also said that other people contributed photos as well.

Highlights of ‘Around Curwensville’ include:

-Features not only Curwensville, but also Clearfield, Grampian and DuBois.
-Provides a detailed look at Curwensville over 100 years ago.
-Reveals images from local disasters, including floods, fires and train wrecks.
-Spotlights exclusive photos from the famous Dimeling Hotel and Curwensville Dam.
-Includes a chapter on the quarries, tanneries and brick making industries.

Rickard said that part of the proceeds of her new book will go to the Curwensville-Pike Township Historical Society.

The book is available at area bookstores, independent retailers and online.

It’s also available at Shaw Public Library and Curwensville library. Proceeds from those sales help the libraries.

Rickard will be signing copies of her new book on Monday at Historica Plus in downtown Clearfield.