At the September 20th Village Board meeting, River Grove Village President Dave Guerin presented local author Kenneth J. Knack with the Key to River Grove for his outstanding work compiling a pictorial history of our town.
"Ken is a great guy and we are honored to have a pictorial history of River Grove presented in such a wonderful fashion," said Mayor Guerin. "His book will be cherished by generations of Grovers."
Part of the Images of America series, the book provides readers with a comprehensive look back in time using historical photos to illustrate River Grove's rich and colorful past.
"I would just like to start off by saying thank you to Mayor Guerin and his staff and the Historical Commission for their support of this book," stated Knack. "River Grove will be 130 years old next month and the last books written about the town are over 30 years old. A lot has changed since then."
Published and printed by Arcadia Publishing, the book is packed cover to cover with beautiful pictures of the people and places that have made River Grove such a vibrant community and includes a foreword by local musician and business owner Mario Novelli.
"My new book covers the history of the town from pre-settlement to today and even covers projects still being completed," added Knack. "It is a pictorial history and contains over 200 images, many of which have never been seen before, and is 127 pages in length."
Those wishing to purchase of copy of the book can visit with Mr. Knack on Monday, September 24th, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the River Grove Library where he will be giving a presentation. Advance registration is required for this event at the River Grove Library website. Copies will be available for sale at 17% off the cover price with single copies going for just $20 or any two books of his for $35. Mr. Knack has also authored history books that feature Elmwood Park and Forest Park. A portion of the royalties from the River Grove book will be shared with the River Grove Historical Commission.
For those unable to attend Mr. Knack's presentation on the 24th, copies will be available for purchase while supplies last at both River Grove Village Hall as well as the River Grove Library.