| NOVEMBER 16, 2011 -- The Old Lyme Historical Society will host a book launch of its latest book “The Charm of the Place: Old Lyme in the 1920’s” from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Nov. 20 at the Old Lyme Grange Hall, at 55 Lyme Street.
Published this fall by the historical society, the book takes a look at Old Lyme during the decade that became known as the “Roaring Twenties.” The book describes Old Lyme’s economic expansion as electricity, indoor plumbing, automobiles and paved roads were introduced.
The book also looks at Old Lyme, which joined the National Grange movement and organized the Old Lyme Grange No. 162 in 1905, as a farming community. The local Grange provided information and assistance to farm owners, served as a fraternal organization and organized social events and entertainment open to all town residents.
Another section of the book explores the early commercial life of Old Lyme. Local businesses reflect the shifts in population, income, taste and technology that changed the look and lifestyle of the community during the 1920s.
The book’s author, Carolyn Wakeman, is a retired journalist who grew up in Old Lyme and graduated from Old Lyme High School in 1960. The book was designed by James Meehan and edited by Alison Mitchell and includes prints of paintings, photographs, postcards, programs and maps.
“The Charm of the Place” is the sixth book of a series devoted to recording Old Lyme’s history. Books previously published by the historical society will also be on sale Sunday, as will a limited-edition poster and a historic map of Old Lyme.
Refreshments will be served. |
