Curious about the local history of where my ancestors lived, I went to the local library and checked out some books. One series that was especially helpful was called "Images of America" It contained old photos and a history of each town. I learned a lot and even found a photo of the land and hotel that my ancestors owned in the 1920s. I learned that my great-great-grandmother was a pioneer resident of Palo Alto, California and have since donated a photograph of her house to the local historical society. Fortunately, many of the homes, businesses, schools, and churches tied to my ancestors are now historic landmarks. The history books opened up a rich avenue of research.

Des Allen

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Other articles in the 02 November 2009 Weekly Discovery: 

> Spotlight on Ports beyond New York 

> A Look at the Decade: 1900-1909, Part 2 

> Photo Corner