Commonwealth Book Company, Publisher
Commonwealth Book Company publishes local and regional history titles, including Ohio and Cincinnati subjects. Our decades of experience selling local history, along with our personal education backgrounds, make us uniquely appreciative of how important it is to keep local history available to the public.
Current Publications
Contact us directly regarding discounted bulk or multiple orders.
As I Knew Him: My Dad, Rod Serling
Updated with a New Afterword, Photographs & Anecdotes
by Anne Serling
Updated with a New Afterword, Photographs & Anecdotes
by Anne Serling
- Publisher : Commonwealth Book Company, Inc. (May 20, 2021)
- Language : English
- Paperback : 358 pages
- ISBN-10 : 1948986310
- ISBN-13 : 978-1948986311
- $24.95 BUY
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The Columbo Phile: A Casebook 30th Anniversary ed. Edition Anniversary ed. Edition
by Mark Dawidziak (Author) Paperback: 410 pages Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company, Inc.; 30th Anniversary ed. edition (November 1, 2019) ISBN-13: 978-1948986120 $29.95 BUY When Columbo hit the airwaves in 1971, in quickly became the hottest TV detective series of the decade. Series creators Richard Levinson and William Link received an Emmy Award for their work; Peter Falk received three. The Columbo Phile offers fascinating behind-the-scenes information about the creation of the character, the writing of the devious mystery plots, and the altercations between perfectionist Peter Falk and the bottom-line concerns of Universal Studios. Originally published in 1989 and long out-of-print, this 30th Anniversary Edition of the essential Columbo book features a new preface by author Mark Dawidziak, an overview of post-1989 Columbo developments, including the twenty-four new ABC mysteries, and a personal remembrance of Peter Falk. It remains today the definitive guide to the rumpled Lieutenant Columbo and his career. |
Simon Kenton: His Life and Period, 1755-1836
by Edna Kenton
Paperback: 380 pages, with Index; Illustrated
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company, Inc. (May 1, 2019)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1948986113
$29.95 BUY
New cover art featuring the painting "Kenton's Voyage to Steal Horses" by noted frontier artist Steve White. This, the first biography of the pioneer who stands with Daniel Boone and George Rogers Clark, originally published in 1930, was written by one of his descendants, based on old diaries, journals, notebooks, and letters and accounts taken down his contemporaries. When Simon Kenton moved from Virginia to Kentucky in 1771, he already had a reputation as a frontier fighter and had served as a spy for George Rogers Clark. During the Revolution he helped the frontier campaigns of Anthony Wayne. Following the Revolution he actively helped in the early settlement of Kentucky and Ohio.
by Edna Kenton
Paperback: 380 pages, with Index; Illustrated
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company, Inc. (May 1, 2019)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1948986113
$29.95 BUY
New cover art featuring the painting "Kenton's Voyage to Steal Horses" by noted frontier artist Steve White. This, the first biography of the pioneer who stands with Daniel Boone and George Rogers Clark, originally published in 1930, was written by one of his descendants, based on old diaries, journals, notebooks, and letters and accounts taken down his contemporaries. When Simon Kenton moved from Virginia to Kentucky in 1771, he already had a reputation as a frontier fighter and had served as a spy for George Rogers Clark. During the Revolution he helped the frontier campaigns of Anthony Wayne. Following the Revolution he actively helped in the early settlement of Kentucky and Ohio.
Bloody Harlan: The United Mine Workers of America in Harlan County, Kentucky, 1931-1941
by Paul F. Taylor
Paperback: 256 pages; with Index; Illustrated
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company (2017)
ISBN-10: 0990535193
ISBN-13: 978-0990535195
$29.95 BUY
Originally published in 1990 and long out-of-print, this story of the Harlan County coal wars of the 1930s is available again. It presents the halting but steady drive by the UMWA to unionize Harlan's miners in the face of intimidation, violence, and outright murder.
by Paul F. Taylor
Paperback: 256 pages; with Index; Illustrated
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company (2017)
ISBN-10: 0990535193
ISBN-13: 978-0990535195
$29.95 BUY
Originally published in 1990 and long out-of-print, this story of the Harlan County coal wars of the 1930s is available again. It presents the halting but steady drive by the UMWA to unionize Harlan's miners in the face of intimidation, violence, and outright murder.
Hell In Harlan
by George J Titler
Paperback: 269 pages, Illustrated
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company, Inc. (2015)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0990535134
$29.95 BUY
George Joy Titler came to Harlan County, Kentucky, in 1937 to help the United Mine Workers of America labor union organize Harlan County's miners. For decades, the county's coal operators bitterly and violently resisted the UMWA's repeated organizing efforts in this remote southeastern Kentucky region. The coal operators' influence and power permeated the county's government and justice system, and stretched its reach to the Governor's office in Frankfort. The operators paid scores of sheriff deputies to intimidate, threaten, and kill organizers or miners who challenged their economic grip on the county. After four tumultuous years, the UMWA organizers secured for Harlan's miners a fair contract. In this book, Titler recounts the history of Harlan County's labor troubles, and gives a first-hand account of his four harrowing years in "Bloody Harlan," where he and his friends survived car bombings, hotel bombings, machine gun ambushes, and other assassination attempts. His bravery and service on behalf of the miners and their families earned him a moniker befitting his personality: the "Bull of Harlan."
by George J Titler
Paperback: 269 pages, Illustrated
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company, Inc. (2015)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0990535134
$29.95 BUY
George Joy Titler came to Harlan County, Kentucky, in 1937 to help the United Mine Workers of America labor union organize Harlan County's miners. For decades, the county's coal operators bitterly and violently resisted the UMWA's repeated organizing efforts in this remote southeastern Kentucky region. The coal operators' influence and power permeated the county's government and justice system, and stretched its reach to the Governor's office in Frankfort. The operators paid scores of sheriff deputies to intimidate, threaten, and kill organizers or miners who challenged their economic grip on the county. After four tumultuous years, the UMWA organizers secured for Harlan's miners a fair contract. In this book, Titler recounts the history of Harlan County's labor troubles, and gives a first-hand account of his four harrowing years in "Bloody Harlan," where he and his friends survived car bombings, hotel bombings, machine gun ambushes, and other assassination attempts. His bravery and service on behalf of the miners and their families earned him a moniker befitting his personality: the "Bull of Harlan."
The G. I. Journal of Sergeant Giles:
The 291st Engineer Combat Battalion in World War II, 1943-1945
by Henry Giles; Jane Holt Giles (editor)
Paperback: 422 pages, with Index; Illustrated
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company (2019)
ISBN-13: 978-1948986106
$29.95 BUY
Born and raised in Adair County, Kentucky, Henry Giles entered the U.S. Army in 1940. As weapons sergeant with the 291st Combat Engineer Battalion, Sgt. Giles participated in the Normandy invasion, the Battle of the Bulge, and the crossing of the Rhine River at Remagen. Throughout his time in the European Theater he wrote over six hundred letters home to his soon-to-be wife, Janice Holt. He also religiously kept a journal detailing daily activities and the camaraderie of his unit. Twenty years later, Janice Holt Giles edited this journal, compiled interviews and additional research, and produced "The G. I. Journal of Sergeant Giles," a book that shows WWII as it was experienced by the regular men who took the brunt of it, the noncommissioned officers and privates. This book also served as the starting point for Janice Holt Giles' history of the 291st Combat Engineer Battalion in WWII, "The Damned Engineers," originally published in 1970 and now available again from this publisher.
The 291st Engineer Combat Battalion in World War II, 1943-1945
by Henry Giles; Jane Holt Giles (editor)
Paperback: 422 pages, with Index; Illustrated
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company (2019)
ISBN-13: 978-1948986106
$29.95 BUY
Born and raised in Adair County, Kentucky, Henry Giles entered the U.S. Army in 1940. As weapons sergeant with the 291st Combat Engineer Battalion, Sgt. Giles participated in the Normandy invasion, the Battle of the Bulge, and the crossing of the Rhine River at Remagen. Throughout his time in the European Theater he wrote over six hundred letters home to his soon-to-be wife, Janice Holt. He also religiously kept a journal detailing daily activities and the camaraderie of his unit. Twenty years later, Janice Holt Giles edited this journal, compiled interviews and additional research, and produced "The G. I. Journal of Sergeant Giles," a book that shows WWII as it was experienced by the regular men who took the brunt of it, the noncommissioned officers and privates. This book also served as the starting point for Janice Holt Giles' history of the 291st Combat Engineer Battalion in WWII, "The Damned Engineers," originally published in 1970 and now available again from this publisher.
The Damned Engineers:
How One Battalion of Combat Engineers Stalled Hitler's Offensive in the Battle of the Bulge
by Janice Holt Giles
Paperback: 409 pages, with Index; Illustrated
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company (2019)
ISBN-13: 978-1948986090
$29.95 BUY
The history of the 291st Engineer Combat Battalion in World War II, and in particular about its involvement in the Battle of the Bulge. The 291st was a small unit but it played a pivotal role in stemming the German counter-offensive in the Battle of the Bulge in 1944. This history is no mere accounting of events, causes, and results, but rather it conveys the real experiences of ordinary men who, when placed in extraordinary circumstances, displayed the courage and fortitude to get the job done. And, as Janice Holt Giles wrote, the 291st Engineers not only got the job done, but they "gave a damned good account of themselves." Janice Holt met Henry Giles in 1943, shortly before he shipped out to England as weapons sergeant in the 291st. Their wartime correspondence and Henry's wartime journal led to not only their marriage, but eventually to Janice's 1965 edited publication of "The G. I. Journal of Sergeant Giles" which is now also available from this publisher. That book and its research led to "The Damned Engineers."
How One Battalion of Combat Engineers Stalled Hitler's Offensive in the Battle of the Bulge
by Janice Holt Giles
Paperback: 409 pages, with Index; Illustrated
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company (2019)
ISBN-13: 978-1948986090
$29.95 BUY
The history of the 291st Engineer Combat Battalion in World War II, and in particular about its involvement in the Battle of the Bulge. The 291st was a small unit but it played a pivotal role in stemming the German counter-offensive in the Battle of the Bulge in 1944. This history is no mere accounting of events, causes, and results, but rather it conveys the real experiences of ordinary men who, when placed in extraordinary circumstances, displayed the courage and fortitude to get the job done. And, as Janice Holt Giles wrote, the 291st Engineers not only got the job done, but they "gave a damned good account of themselves." Janice Holt met Henry Giles in 1943, shortly before he shipped out to England as weapons sergeant in the 291st. Their wartime correspondence and Henry's wartime journal led to not only their marriage, but eventually to Janice's 1965 edited publication of "The G. I. Journal of Sergeant Giles" which is now also available from this publisher. That book and its research led to "The Damned Engineers."
Wings Over the Pacific: The Seventh Air Force in WWII
A History in Photographs
by Stewart Fern and Lee Fern
Paperback: 117 pages; w/index; Photographs
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company (2017)
ISBN-13: 978-0990535188
$24.95 BUY
Large format (8 1/2" x 11") and profusely illustrated with full paged b/w photographs and photo collages with descriptions. The Seventh Air Force was created in October of 1940 to provide air defense for the Hawaiian Islands. The 7th was involved in most of the major engagements of the Pacific Theater, from the initial attack on Pearl Harbor to the final Battle of Okinawa. The photographs in this book follow the men and machines of the 7th to the final days of combat. They illustrate the brutality of war but also the courage, humor, and humanity of the thousands of American men and women who served in the 7th. The name index at the end of this book lists people in the photographs along with their current (1947) addresses.
A History in Photographs
by Stewart Fern and Lee Fern
Paperback: 117 pages; w/index; Photographs
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company (2017)
ISBN-13: 978-0990535188
$24.95 BUY
Large format (8 1/2" x 11") and profusely illustrated with full paged b/w photographs and photo collages with descriptions. The Seventh Air Force was created in October of 1940 to provide air defense for the Hawaiian Islands. The 7th was involved in most of the major engagements of the Pacific Theater, from the initial attack on Pearl Harbor to the final Battle of Okinawa. The photographs in this book follow the men and machines of the 7th to the final days of combat. They illustrate the brutality of war but also the courage, humor, and humanity of the thousands of American men and women who served in the 7th. The name index at the end of this book lists people in the photographs along with their current (1947) addresses.
Cincinnati's Colored Citizens
by Wendell Phillips Dabney (Author)
Paperback: 440 pages; with Index; Illustrated
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company (2019)
ISBN-13: 978-1948986045
$29.95 BUY
In 1926 Wendell Phillips Dabney published his first book, Cincinnati's Colored Citizens, which was an unprecedented review of the city's most successful and important African American citizens. Never before had a publication marshaled together such an immense amount of historical, sociological, statistical, and biographical information about Cincinnati's black community. Its nine chapters, well illustrated with photographs, provided a wealth of information about black schools, churches, businesses, property owners, benevolent organizations, and much more. Cincinnati's Colored Citizens remains today an important piece of Cincinnati's rich African American heritage and a critical resource for those interested in the history of the Queen City.
by Wendell Phillips Dabney (Author)
Paperback: 440 pages; with Index; Illustrated
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company (2019)
ISBN-13: 978-1948986045
$29.95 BUY
In 1926 Wendell Phillips Dabney published his first book, Cincinnati's Colored Citizens, which was an unprecedented review of the city's most successful and important African American citizens. Never before had a publication marshaled together such an immense amount of historical, sociological, statistical, and biographical information about Cincinnati's black community. Its nine chapters, well illustrated with photographs, provided a wealth of information about black schools, churches, businesses, property owners, benevolent organizations, and much more. Cincinnati's Colored Citizens remains today an important piece of Cincinnati's rich African American heritage and a critical resource for those interested in the history of the Queen City.
Playmates of the Towpath:
Happy Memories of the Canal Swimmers' Society
by Charles Ludwig
Paperback: 160 pages; Illustrated
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company, Inc. (February 1, 2019)
ISBN-13: 978-1948986076
$24.95 BUY
In historic downtown Cincinnati, Central Parkway is a landmark avenue, noted for its width. But under the parkway was once the Miami & Erie Canal, which connected Lake Erie with the Ohio River. Completed in 1845, the canal was a vital means of transportation of goods through the state. Railroads put the canal out of business, but it remained a waterway through Cincinnati well into the twentieth century. As Cincinnati burgeoned into a modern urban metropolis, the canal became a playing ground for the city's daring youth and adults. Upon the demise of the canal and the opening of Central Parkway, Charles Ludwig, a reporter for the Cincinnati Times-Star and himself a canal swimmer in his youth, gathered together stories and vignettes celebrating the canal's recreational past. Illustrated with historic photos, this book, originally published in 1929, records a time and way of life long vanished.
Happy Memories of the Canal Swimmers' Society
by Charles Ludwig
Paperback: 160 pages; Illustrated
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company, Inc. (February 1, 2019)
ISBN-13: 978-1948986076
$24.95 BUY
In historic downtown Cincinnati, Central Parkway is a landmark avenue, noted for its width. But under the parkway was once the Miami & Erie Canal, which connected Lake Erie with the Ohio River. Completed in 1845, the canal was a vital means of transportation of goods through the state. Railroads put the canal out of business, but it remained a waterway through Cincinnati well into the twentieth century. As Cincinnati burgeoned into a modern urban metropolis, the canal became a playing ground for the city's daring youth and adults. Upon the demise of the canal and the opening of Central Parkway, Charles Ludwig, a reporter for the Cincinnati Times-Star and himself a canal swimmer in his youth, gathered together stories and vignettes celebrating the canal's recreational past. Illustrated with historic photos, this book, originally published in 1929, records a time and way of life long vanished.
Beverly Hills: Anatomy of a Nightclub Fire
by Robert G. Lawson
$29.95 BUY
The Beverly Hills Supper Club in Southgate, Kentucky, across the Ohio River from Cincinnati, was the preeminent nightclub of the lower Midwest for decades. After struggling financially into the1960s, the club was purchased by new owners in 1969. Over the next several years, the new owners completed numerous improvements, renovations, and additions, creating what they hoped would be the "showplace of the nation." On the evening of May 28, 1977, the lavish club burned to the ground, killing 165 people in the second worst nightclub fire in United States history. Robert Lawson's meticulous study makes clear that the tragedy flowed from the fact that the building had become over time a true firetrap. The renovations and additions completed since 1969 were dominated by multiple fire code violations and very significant design failures for a building that was destined to be occupied by huge crowds of people. Undoubtedly, a more complete compliance with state laws on fire safety would have averted the disaster. No single individual was responsible for the building's shortcomings. The firetrap in the nightclub, which ultimately resulted in the tragic death of 165 people, was clearly created by a combination of personal, professional, and legal failures by owners of the facility, local and state fire officials and inspectors, and others. Looking back, which is always easier than looking forward, it is clear that the real tragedy at Beverly Hills is that very little additional care and caution was needed to prevent some if not all of the deaths that occurred there.
by Robert G. Lawson
- Paperback: 299 pages, Illustrated
- Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company (2016)
- ISBN-0990535169
$29.95 BUY
The Beverly Hills Supper Club in Southgate, Kentucky, across the Ohio River from Cincinnati, was the preeminent nightclub of the lower Midwest for decades. After struggling financially into the1960s, the club was purchased by new owners in 1969. Over the next several years, the new owners completed numerous improvements, renovations, and additions, creating what they hoped would be the "showplace of the nation." On the evening of May 28, 1977, the lavish club burned to the ground, killing 165 people in the second worst nightclub fire in United States history. Robert Lawson's meticulous study makes clear that the tragedy flowed from the fact that the building had become over time a true firetrap. The renovations and additions completed since 1969 were dominated by multiple fire code violations and very significant design failures for a building that was destined to be occupied by huge crowds of people. Undoubtedly, a more complete compliance with state laws on fire safety would have averted the disaster. No single individual was responsible for the building's shortcomings. The firetrap in the nightclub, which ultimately resulted in the tragic death of 165 people, was clearly created by a combination of personal, professional, and legal failures by owners of the facility, local and state fire officials and inspectors, and others. Looking back, which is always easier than looking forward, it is clear that the real tragedy at Beverly Hills is that very little additional care and caution was needed to prevent some if not all of the deaths that occurred there.
The Archaeology of Hamilton County, Ohio
by S. F. Starr
Paperback: 132 pages; Illustrated.
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company, Inc. (March 1, 2019)
ISBN-10: 1948986086
ISBN-13: 978-1948986083
$11.70 BUY
A thorough analysis of the archaeology of the Cincinnati area based on surveys completed in 1957 & 1958. It includes sections on the Adena circular earthworks, ceremonial earthworks, defensive fortifications, and stone mounds. It has information on mounds and village sites in the following townships: Anderson, Columbia, Symmes, Sycamore, Springfield Townships; Cincinnati; Delhi, Miami, Green, Colerain, Crosby, Harrison, and Whitewater. Although originally published in 1960, it remains today a valuable resource on the prehistoric archaeology of the Cincinnati area.
by S. F. Starr
Paperback: 132 pages; Illustrated.
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company, Inc. (March 1, 2019)
ISBN-10: 1948986086
ISBN-13: 978-1948986083
$11.70 BUY
A thorough analysis of the archaeology of the Cincinnati area based on surveys completed in 1957 & 1958. It includes sections on the Adena circular earthworks, ceremonial earthworks, defensive fortifications, and stone mounds. It has information on mounds and village sites in the following townships: Anderson, Columbia, Symmes, Sycamore, Springfield Townships; Cincinnati; Delhi, Miami, Green, Colerain, Crosby, Harrison, and Whitewater. Although originally published in 1960, it remains today a valuable resource on the prehistoric archaeology of the Cincinnati area.
Stockades in the Wilderness:
The Frontier Defenses and Settlements of Southwestern Ohio,
1788-1795
by Richard Scamyhorn and John Steinle
Paperback: 167 pages, Illustrated
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company (2015)
ISBN-10: 0990535126
ISBN-13: 978-0990535126
$22.95 BUY
In the Ohio River-Great Lakes region, decades of conflict between pioneer settlers and Native American nations erupted into full-scale war in the 1790s. As new communities such as Cincinnati, Columbia, and North Bend were founded throughout the vast Miami Purchase, southern Ohio became the bloody battleground of this nameless war. To counter the ever-present threat of attack, southwestern Ohio's pioneering settlers "forted up" in small stockades and fortified cabins that offered some protection for their families. Today, nothing is visibly left of these vital protective "stations" except a few historic markers or local cemeteries. In this book, you will discover their people, their stories, their locations, and their role in the war that ended with the Treaty of Greeneville in 1795, and how and why some of them developed into the southern Ohio communities that we know today.
The Frontier Defenses and Settlements of Southwestern Ohio,
1788-1795
by Richard Scamyhorn and John Steinle
Paperback: 167 pages, Illustrated
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company (2015)
ISBN-10: 0990535126
ISBN-13: 978-0990535126
$22.95 BUY
In the Ohio River-Great Lakes region, decades of conflict between pioneer settlers and Native American nations erupted into full-scale war in the 1790s. As new communities such as Cincinnati, Columbia, and North Bend were founded throughout the vast Miami Purchase, southern Ohio became the bloody battleground of this nameless war. To counter the ever-present threat of attack, southwestern Ohio's pioneering settlers "forted up" in small stockades and fortified cabins that offered some protection for their families. Today, nothing is visibly left of these vital protective "stations" except a few historic markers or local cemeteries. In this book, you will discover their people, their stories, their locations, and their role in the war that ended with the Treaty of Greeneville in 1795, and how and why some of them developed into the southern Ohio communities that we know today.
History of Camp Dennison 1796-1956
by Mary Rahn Sloane
Paperback: 160 pages; w/ Index; Illustrated
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company, Inc. (December 1, 2018)
ISBN-13: 978-1948986014
$24.95 BUY
In 1794, Revolutionary War veteran Christian Waldschmidt settled on the Little Miami River just east of Cincinnati and founded a community called New Germany. In 1804, he built his home which included a store. Waldschmidt actively encouraged settlement and New Germany grew to include a church, school, sawmill, blacksmith shop, distillery, and a paper mill.
During the Civil War, the grounds and house became part of Camp Dennison, a Union training center and hospital post named for Governor William Dennison. The main house, now known as Waldschmidt House, served as headquarters for General Joshua Bates.
Following the Civil War and into the twentieth century, the house fell into disuse and disrepair. In 1941, the Ohio Society Daughters of the American Revolution assumed ownership of the property and undertook its restoration. In 1953, the property was dedicated and opened to the public as a museum.
by Mary Rahn Sloane
Paperback: 160 pages; w/ Index; Illustrated
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company, Inc. (December 1, 2018)
ISBN-13: 978-1948986014
$24.95 BUY
In 1794, Revolutionary War veteran Christian Waldschmidt settled on the Little Miami River just east of Cincinnati and founded a community called New Germany. In 1804, he built his home which included a store. Waldschmidt actively encouraged settlement and New Germany grew to include a church, school, sawmill, blacksmith shop, distillery, and a paper mill.
During the Civil War, the grounds and house became part of Camp Dennison, a Union training center and hospital post named for Governor William Dennison. The main house, now known as Waldschmidt House, served as headquarters for General Joshua Bates.
Following the Civil War and into the twentieth century, the house fell into disuse and disrepair. In 1941, the Ohio Society Daughters of the American Revolution assumed ownership of the property and undertook its restoration. In 1953, the property was dedicated and opened to the public as a museum.
A Buckeye in the 50th Ohio 1862 - 1865
A Civil War Memoir
by Erastus Winters
Paperback: 191 pages
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company (2016)
ISBN-13: 978-0990535157
$19.95 BUY
Erastus Winters was born in Cincinnati in 1843. In 1862 he enlisted in Company K of the 50th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, which was organized at Camp Dennison near Cincinnati, and mustered in for three years service under the command of Colonel J. R. Taylor. The regiment was attached to 34th Brigade, 10th Division, Army of the Ohio. In straightforward and measured prose, Winters describes his Civil War experiences, from camp life to pitched battles to prison. The 50th saw early action at the Battle of Perryville, Kentucky, and later joined General Sherman's Atlanta Campaign. In 1864, Winters was captured at the Battle of Franklin, Tennessee, and spent the remaining months of the war at the notorious Cahaba Prison in Alabama. Having survived the war, he nearly perished on his way back to Ohio, when the steamboat on which he and hundreds of other paroled prisoners were travelling, the Sultana, exploded and sank near Memphis. It was among the worst naval disasters in American history with over 1700 souls lost. Winters was not a remarkable soldier, neither gallant officer or daring hero, but he offers in his memoir the Civil War that an average infantry soldier experienced: fear, courage, death, humor, camaraderie, and ultimately a lifelong sense of pride. Until he died in 1925, Winters remained active in the Union veterans organization, the Grand Army of the Republic, and though decades removed, the Civil War was never far from him.
A Civil War Memoir
by Erastus Winters
Paperback: 191 pages
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company (2016)
ISBN-13: 978-0990535157
$19.95 BUY
Erastus Winters was born in Cincinnati in 1843. In 1862 he enlisted in Company K of the 50th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, which was organized at Camp Dennison near Cincinnati, and mustered in for three years service under the command of Colonel J. R. Taylor. The regiment was attached to 34th Brigade, 10th Division, Army of the Ohio. In straightforward and measured prose, Winters describes his Civil War experiences, from camp life to pitched battles to prison. The 50th saw early action at the Battle of Perryville, Kentucky, and later joined General Sherman's Atlanta Campaign. In 1864, Winters was captured at the Battle of Franklin, Tennessee, and spent the remaining months of the war at the notorious Cahaba Prison in Alabama. Having survived the war, he nearly perished on his way back to Ohio, when the steamboat on which he and hundreds of other paroled prisoners were travelling, the Sultana, exploded and sank near Memphis. It was among the worst naval disasters in American history with over 1700 souls lost. Winters was not a remarkable soldier, neither gallant officer or daring hero, but he offers in his memoir the Civil War that an average infantry soldier experienced: fear, courage, death, humor, camaraderie, and ultimately a lifelong sense of pride. Until he died in 1925, Winters remained active in the Union veterans organization, the Grand Army of the Republic, and though decades removed, the Civil War was never far from him.
Dock Brown: Outlaw of Grayson County, Kentucky
by William R Haynes
$22.95 BUY
In 1842 Gillium Hopper, Jr., alias "Dock Brown," arrived in Pine Knob, Grayson County, Kentucky, along with his brother Pinkney and his father Gillium Hopper, Sr., alias "John Brown." Another brother, Moses, joined them from Indiana. For the next nine years, these fugitive criminals continued their murderous ways. Dock Brown married Emily Ross, in the process killing her brother and eventually killing his own father to cover up the crime. The "Browns" robbed travelers, murdering them and depositing their bodies in nearby Big Mouth Cave. In the end, the remaining "Brown" brothers killed each other and the Kentucky saga came to a violent end.
by William R Haynes
- Paperback: 126 pages
- Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company, Inc. (December 1, 2017)
- Language: English
- ISBN-13: 978-1948986038
$22.95 BUY
In 1842 Gillium Hopper, Jr., alias "Dock Brown," arrived in Pine Knob, Grayson County, Kentucky, along with his brother Pinkney and his father Gillium Hopper, Sr., alias "John Brown." Another brother, Moses, joined them from Indiana. For the next nine years, these fugitive criminals continued their murderous ways. Dock Brown married Emily Ross, in the process killing her brother and eventually killing his own father to cover up the crime. The "Browns" robbed travelers, murdering them and depositing their bodies in nearby Big Mouth Cave. In the end, the remaining "Brown" brothers killed each other and the Kentucky saga came to a violent end.
Ghost Stories & Legends of the North Carolina Mountains
by Sadie S. Patton
Woodcut Illustrations by Joy Kime Benton
Paperback: 57 pages
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company, Inc. (2018)
ISBN-13: 978-1948986021
$14.95 BUY
Most of the legends and stories in this book were local to Hendersonville & the western highlands of the state. Local readers might recognize Jump-Off Rock, Mt. Hebron, Boyleston Creek, Kanuga, and Flat Rock.
Sadie S. Patton (1886-1975), was born in Henderson County, North Carolina. She was a court reporter that covered most of western North Carolina.
by Sadie S. Patton
Woodcut Illustrations by Joy Kime Benton
Paperback: 57 pages
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company, Inc. (2018)
ISBN-13: 978-1948986021
$14.95 BUY
Most of the legends and stories in this book were local to Hendersonville & the western highlands of the state. Local readers might recognize Jump-Off Rock, Mt. Hebron, Boyleston Creek, Kanuga, and Flat Rock.
Sadie S. Patton (1886-1975), was born in Henderson County, North Carolina. She was a court reporter that covered most of western North Carolina.
The Pioneer History of Morgan County, Ohio
by James M. Gaylord
Paperback: 76 pages
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company
$17.95 BUY
First Published in 1932. New Material copyright 2016 by Commonwealth Book Company.
Cover image: McConnellsville in 1846 as drawn by Henry Howe.
by James M. Gaylord
Paperback: 76 pages
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company
$17.95 BUY
First Published in 1932. New Material copyright 2016 by Commonwealth Book Company.
Cover image: McConnellsville in 1846 as drawn by Henry Howe.
Early History of Columbiana, Ohio
1805-1912
by Chauncey E. Wolfgang
Paperback: 79 pages; Illustrated
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company (2016)
$22.95 BUY
A pioneer history of Columbiana, Ohio, with details of its early settlers, businesses, organizations, and Civil War soldiers.
1805-1912
by Chauncey E. Wolfgang
Paperback: 79 pages; Illustrated
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company (2016)
$22.95 BUY
A pioneer history of Columbiana, Ohio, with details of its early settlers, businesses, organizations, and Civil War soldiers.
Early and Modern History of Wolfe County, Kentucky, 1860-1957
by Wolfe County Woman's Club (Compiler)
Paperback: 340 pages; w/ Index
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company, Inc. (January 15, 2019)
ISBN-13: 978-1948986069
$24.95 BUY
Originally published in 1957, this title has been long out-of-print. The first 58 pages provide a history of the county, with sections on churches, mines, schools etc. The remaining page of the book contain family histories. It is indexed by family name at the rear of the book.
by Wolfe County Woman's Club (Compiler)
Paperback: 340 pages; w/ Index
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company, Inc. (January 15, 2019)
ISBN-13: 978-1948986069
$24.95 BUY
Originally published in 1957, this title has been long out-of-print. The first 58 pages provide a history of the county, with sections on churches, mines, schools etc. The remaining page of the book contain family histories. It is indexed by family name at the rear of the book.
Oakley: From Hamlet to the Center of Cincinnati
by Editor John D. Fairfield (Author), Charles F. Casey-Leininger (Series Editor)
Series: Neighborhoods of Cincinnati
Paperback: 114 pages; Illustrated
Publisher: COMMONWEALTH BOOK COMPANY (2018)
ISBN-13: 978-1948986007
$22.95 BUY
This book is the product of John Fairfield's long association with Zane Miller, the Cincinnati school of urban history, and the idea of symptomatic history. In tracing the development of Oakley from a small agricultural hamlet to a busy urban neighborhood, this history treats local developments as symptomatic of larger national trends. These trends include the rise and fall of a mass production economy and the shift to a service economy, the fortunes and fate of public transportation, and the patterns and policies promoting-and sometimes reducing-racial segregation.
by Editor John D. Fairfield (Author), Charles F. Casey-Leininger (Series Editor)
Series: Neighborhoods of Cincinnati
Paperback: 114 pages; Illustrated
Publisher: COMMONWEALTH BOOK COMPANY (2018)
ISBN-13: 978-1948986007
$22.95 BUY
This book is the product of John Fairfield's long association with Zane Miller, the Cincinnati school of urban history, and the idea of symptomatic history. In tracing the development of Oakley from a small agricultural hamlet to a busy urban neighborhood, this history treats local developments as symptomatic of larger national trends. These trends include the rise and fall of a mass production economy and the shift to a service economy, the fortunes and fate of public transportation, and the patterns and policies promoting-and sometimes reducing-racial segregation.
Suburb: Neighborhood & Community in Forest Park, Ohio, 1935-1976 (Second Edition)
By Zane L. Miller; Charles F. Casey-Leininger (Series Editor);
Timothy J. Lombardo (Foreword); Jon. C. Teaford (Afterword)
Series: Neighborhoods of Cincinnati
Paperback: 276 pages; w/Index; Illustrated
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company; 2nd edition (2016)
ISBN-13: 978-0990535171
$24.95 BUY
Suburb is book about a small place. It examines the development of Forest Park, Ohio, a single suburban community just north of Cincinnati. Its story is not that different from the legions of suburban enclaves that popped up outside of major American cities over the course of the twentieth century, especially after the Second World War. In one sense, Forest Park was emblematic of the vast suburbanization that took place in postwar America….Miller’s Suburb is the story of how public investment and private interest combined to create a community tied to the city of Cincinnati but separate from it…Most importantly, Miller identified a long shift in Forest Parkers conception of their community, from one concerned with the overall good of the community to one defined more by individual interest...Miller’s history of Forest Park is significant because it offers an up-close example of the process and politics of suburbanization along with the accompanying intellectual and cultural changes. Likewise, Miller’s examination of three main periods in Forest Park’s progress provides readers the opportunity to draw broader conclusions about similarly developing communities.
By Zane L. Miller; Charles F. Casey-Leininger (Series Editor);
Timothy J. Lombardo (Foreword); Jon. C. Teaford (Afterword)
Series: Neighborhoods of Cincinnati
Paperback: 276 pages; w/Index; Illustrated
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company; 2nd edition (2016)
ISBN-13: 978-0990535171
$24.95 BUY
Suburb is book about a small place. It examines the development of Forest Park, Ohio, a single suburban community just north of Cincinnati. Its story is not that different from the legions of suburban enclaves that popped up outside of major American cities over the course of the twentieth century, especially after the Second World War. In one sense, Forest Park was emblematic of the vast suburbanization that took place in postwar America….Miller’s Suburb is the story of how public investment and private interest combined to create a community tied to the city of Cincinnati but separate from it…Most importantly, Miller identified a long shift in Forest Parkers conception of their community, from one concerned with the overall good of the community to one defined more by individual interest...Miller’s history of Forest Park is significant because it offers an up-close example of the process and politics of suburbanization along with the accompanying intellectual and cultural changes. Likewise, Miller’s examination of three main periods in Forest Park’s progress provides readers the opportunity to draw broader conclusions about similarly developing communities.
Clifton
Neighborhood and Community in an Urban Setting: A Brief History
by Henry Shapiro and Zane Miller
Series: Neighborhoods of Cincinnati
Series Editors: Zane L. Miller and Charles F. Casey-Leininger
Paperback: 79 pages, Illustrated
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company (2014)
ISBN-13: 978-0990535119
$14.95 BUY
Originally published in 1976, this book was the initial product Zane Miller and Henry D. Shapiro's "Laboratory of American Civilization," a way of studying larger trends in American history by focusing on small communities. This book traces the history of Cincinnati's first suburb community from empty farmland in the early 1800s to the well-developed, semi-autonomous community we recognize today. Throughout the book, the relationship of Clifton to the ever-expanding metropolis of Cincinnati is explored, from annexation battles to eventual inclusion in the city.
Neighborhood and Community in an Urban Setting: A Brief History
by Henry Shapiro and Zane Miller
Series: Neighborhoods of Cincinnati
Series Editors: Zane L. Miller and Charles F. Casey-Leininger
Paperback: 79 pages, Illustrated
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company (2014)
ISBN-13: 978-0990535119
$14.95 BUY
Originally published in 1976, this book was the initial product Zane Miller and Henry D. Shapiro's "Laboratory of American Civilization," a way of studying larger trends in American history by focusing on small communities. This book traces the history of Cincinnati's first suburb community from empty farmland in the early 1800s to the well-developed, semi-autonomous community we recognize today. Throughout the book, the relationship of Clifton to the ever-expanding metropolis of Cincinnati is explored, from annexation battles to eventual inclusion in the city.
It Happened 'Round North Bend:
A History of Miami Township and Its Borders
by Marjorie Byrnside Burress
Paperback: 126 pages
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company; 2nd edition (2015)
ISBN-13: 978-0990535140
$24.95 BUY
Long out-of-print, Marjorie Burress' book about the history of North Bend is available again. Its 126 pages are packed to the margins with information about the early history of Miami Township in Hamilton County. Originally settled by John Cleves, North Bend was one of the earliest pioneer settlements of southwest Ohio. It was an important station on the Ohio River and was the birthplace of President Benjamin Harrison. Within these pages you will find an eclectic array of North Bend history: pioneer legends and stories, mills, ferries, canals, railroads, bridges, forts, schools, famous residents, Cleves, and so forth.
A History of Miami Township and Its Borders
by Marjorie Byrnside Burress
Paperback: 126 pages
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company; 2nd edition (2015)
ISBN-13: 978-0990535140
$24.95 BUY
Long out-of-print, Marjorie Burress' book about the history of North Bend is available again. Its 126 pages are packed to the margins with information about the early history of Miami Township in Hamilton County. Originally settled by John Cleves, North Bend was one of the earliest pioneer settlements of southwest Ohio. It was an important station on the Ohio River and was the birthplace of President Benjamin Harrison. Within these pages you will find an eclectic array of North Bend history: pioneer legends and stories, mills, ferries, canals, railroads, bridges, forts, schools, famous residents, Cleves, and so forth.
Cincinnati Silversmiths
Jewelers, Watch and Clockmakers
by Elizabeth D. Beckman
Paperback: 192 pages
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company; 2nd edition (2014)
ISBN-10: 099053510X
ISBN-13: 978-0990535102
$29.95 BUY
An expanded reprint of the 1975 edition. It is an in-depth study of Cincinnati Silversmiths, Jewelers, Watch and Clockmakers through 1850. Also listing the more prominent men in these trades from 1851 until 1900 with A new Appendix featuring Ohio silversmiths working outside of Cincinnati compiled from Ms. Beckman's notes by Maurice Meslans with notes by Wm. Erik Voss.
Jewelers, Watch and Clockmakers
by Elizabeth D. Beckman
Paperback: 192 pages
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company; 2nd edition (2014)
ISBN-10: 099053510X
ISBN-13: 978-0990535102
$29.95 BUY
An expanded reprint of the 1975 edition. It is an in-depth study of Cincinnati Silversmiths, Jewelers, Watch and Clockmakers through 1850. Also listing the more prominent men in these trades from 1851 until 1900 with A new Appendix featuring Ohio silversmiths working outside of Cincinnati compiled from Ms. Beckman's notes by Maurice Meslans with notes by Wm. Erik Voss.
The Silversmiths of Kentucky 1785 to 1850
by Noble W. Hiatt & Lucy F. Hiatt
Paperback: 135 pages; w/ Index; Illustrated
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company (2nd Edition)
$24.95 BUY
Originally published in 1954 in a limited edition, this book remains today an invaluable resource for collectors, decorative arts specialists and Kentucky Historians. Through meticulous research the authors compiled detailed information about 240 Kentucky silversmiths. Six pages show various marks employed by some of these pioneer craftsmen, and a detailed bibliography and index render the book an efficient and useful resource.
New softcover edition limited to 250 copies. Chapters include KY silversmiths, unconfirmed KY silversmiths, sketches of marks, and a bibliography.
by Noble W. Hiatt & Lucy F. Hiatt
Paperback: 135 pages; w/ Index; Illustrated
Publisher: Commonwealth Book Company (2nd Edition)
$24.95 BUY
Originally published in 1954 in a limited edition, this book remains today an invaluable resource for collectors, decorative arts specialists and Kentucky Historians. Through meticulous research the authors compiled detailed information about 240 Kentucky silversmiths. Six pages show various marks employed by some of these pioneer craftsmen, and a detailed bibliography and index render the book an efficient and useful resource.
New softcover edition limited to 250 copies. Chapters include KY silversmiths, unconfirmed KY silversmiths, sketches of marks, and a bibliography.