Spinner Publications celebrates its new book, A Picture History of New Bedford, Volume 1 (1602-1925), with a book signing party at Gallery X, 169 William Street, New Bedford, on Saturday, August 3 from 6:00 to 10:00 pm. Throughout the evening, the book’s five authors, Joseph Thomas, Alfred Saulniers, Natalie White, Marsha McCabe and Jay Avila, will sign both cloth-covered and paperback books. The public is invited to attend free of charge and enjoy light fare, refreshments and musical entertainment by singer and keyboardist, Newby Grace.
The “Experience New Bedford” event coincides with Gallery X’s Mentor Swain School of Design Alumni Show and David L. Smith Memorial exhibit. The show features selected works of David Loeffler Smith and other renowned faculty artists whose mentorship has shaped the way students view, explore and create art.
At 9:00 pm, guests will be treated to a sneak preview of the film, New Bedford Through the Years, a montage of vintage film clips made between 1919 and 1963, and edited for Spinner by local photographer John Robson. The film features exciting footage of downtown street scenes, trolley rides, waterfront activity, factory interiors, parades and more.
A Picture History of New Bedford is the first extensive city history to appear in decades. Its two volumes capture the city’s journey through hundreds of photographs and stories. The first volume spans from 1602 to 1925 and traces New Bedford’s story from native Wampanoag hunting ground, straight-laced Quaker enclave and world-class whaling powerhouse to Underground Railroad stronghold, fine textile producer and fledgling fishing port.
Spinner Publications is a New Bedford-based, non-profit cultural organization whose mission is to record and promote the history and culture of Southeastern Massachusetts. Among Spinner’s award-winning titles are Lincoln Park Remembered, Portuguese Spinner: An American Story, Brick by Brick: A Woman’s Journey, Branded on My Arm and in My Soul and the anthology series, Spinner: People Culture in Southeastern Massachusetts.
Guests are encouraged to bring copies already purchased. Books will be available at $35 softcover and $60 hardcover (tax included). For more information, contact Spinner at 508-994-4564, visit www.spinnerpub.com or look up Spinner Publications on Facebook.