The Woods Hole Public Library will welcome Vineyard authors Thomas Dresser, Herb Foster, and Jay Schofield ashore on Wednesday, October 15 to talk about their new book “Martha’s Vineyard in World War II”, which was just released this year, published by The History Press. It is copiously illustrated with photographs gleaned from the archives of several national repositories as well as from local newspapers and magazines and private collections, including photographs by the authors.
The book’s scope is surprisingly broad, giving background information on both the island and the nation, and about towns and individuals. It describes daily life on the home front, as people faced the wartime demands of defense and rationing, as well as the life and duties of those who enlisted in the different services. Each short concise chapter provides a clear look at its designated subject. For example, there are chapters on plane spotters, nurses, Colonel Lindbergh, fortifications, the gunnery range on South Beach, and even the Van Ryper Model Shop.
Most wonderful of all, the text depends in large part on “Vineyard Voices”, the oral history project of Linsey Lee of the Martha’s Vineyard Museum. The authors will place special emphasis on the Woods Hole/Falmouth connection.
The presentation will begin at 7:15 PM in the meeting room in the lower level of the Library, which is handicapped accessible. Following their talk there will be time for questions. Copies of the book will be for sale.
Come to the Library to hear even more and to see, and maybe even purchase, this informative book. For more information, call the Library at 508-548-8961.