Your Community History
If you have ever thought that your local community deserves its own book, but have no idea where to start, Halsgrove's Community History Series could have the answer. This valuable programme offers local groups and individuals a unique and exciting opportunity to publish a beautifully illustrated history of their town, village or parish.
Anyone Can Get Involved
Since the publication of The Book of Widecombe-in-the-Moor in 1997, the first in the series, Halsgrove has published almost 200 titles. The cost of production is covered by pre-publication sales and you do not need to be an expert historian or writer to put together a book on your locality. Indeed, although some have been written by retired teachers and practiced authors, the majority of books in this series are by individuals or local history groups with no previous experience of writing for print. The common factor is that they all have an enduring love of their community.
The Finished Article
Each Community History is presented in a 160-page A4 hardback format with upwards of 200 photographs accompanied by a lively text covering various aspects of community life down through the years. From farms and schools, through church and chapel, to local trade and industry, topics encompass a wide range of subjects chosen by the community. The author/group supplies Halsgrove with their text and pictures, leaving us to do the rest! Once edited, designed and proofread, the book is sent to the author or group for approval before being printed.
Marketing
For every Community History Halsgrove designs and prints an attractive flyer which carries photographs and information about the local community, the author(s) and the series as a whole. On the reverse is an order form through which it is possible to purchase the book and have a family name inscribed in it, thus offering individuals the opportunity to invest in the community's unique history. All orders received by Halsgrove are acknowledged. In the months leading up to publication the marketing team liaises closely with authors to let them know how sales are going and to ensure that the project is receiving the local publicity it deserves.
What to do Next
You may have plans to investigate your community's past, or perhaps you have already started - talking to older residents, poring over maps, collecting pictures and getting thoroughly absorbed in the pattern of local events over the years. If so the Community History Series may be able to help you create an heirloom for future generations to treasure and to give your studies lasting form. If you are interested in becoming involved and would like to find out more, please contact the Community Histories team. Email: sales@halsgrove.com.
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