Local History Stories Get Spotlight with New Books

Photo: AP

When writer Sharon Kitchens started an online guide called Stephen King’s Maine, she didn’t expect much. But when the website drew nearly 27,000 visitors, someone suggested she turn her work into a book. That suggestion led to a published edition in 2024, and now her story is one of hundreds put out each year by The History Press.

What Is The History Press?
The History Press is a publishing imprint that focuses on local and regional stories across America. It’s part of Arcadia Publishing, and has been around for over 20 years. Their goal is simple yet powerful: to explore and share “the story of America, one town or community at a time.”

Their books are sold in places where travelers and locals gather—think bookstores, museums, tourist shops, even hotels.

What Kind of Books Do They Publish?
The collection includes projects like:

• Stephen King’s Maine by Sharon Kitchens, mapping real-life settings behind famous horror tales
• The History of Diners in New Jersey, exploring a classic American eatery’s role in that state
• Marshall Field’s by Gayle Soucek, tipping a hat to the history of a famous department store
• Each book shines a light on a community’s past, helping readers understand the ordinary stories that shape our everyday world.

Why Local Lore Matters
1. Community Pride
These books help towns remember who they are and why they matter. Readers can connect with familiar places once they learn the stories behind them.

2. History Comes Alive
Instead of reading about national events, people get to see how history played out in their own neighborhoods—making it more relatable and memorable.

3. An Untold Side of America
Not every important story happened in big cities. This collection brings small, local tales to light, reminding us that every place has meaning.

The Journey of a Local Storyteller
Let’s revisit Sharon Kitchens’ adventure:

• Passion Project: Inspired by her deep knowledge of Stephen King’s books, she created a map and story guide online.
• Surprise Success: With nearly 27,000 visitors, she realized there was interest beyond her expectations.
• From Web to Book: Encouraged by friends, she turned her project into a book published by The History Press.
• What She Gained: Now, her work is among many local stories helping Americans see their own history in a new light.

The Impact of Community-Focused Publishing

• Authors like Kitchens can share their passion projects in a bigger way.
• Readers get a chance to explore history through familiar landscapes and landmarks.
• Small presses like The History Press help preserve local memories that might otherwise be forgotten.
• Sharon Kitchens turned her online project about Stephen King’s Maine into a book after big interest.
• Her book joined hundreds published by The History Press, a label that brings local stories to life across America.
• These books help people connect with their hometown history and learn that every place has a story worth telling.