Photograph used by permission; The History Press

http://www.historypress.net

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While I lived in York County many years while growing up, and certainly had been in and through the downtown York area many times, I've never taken the time to explore the area in any depth. Knowing the city's historical significance to both the nation's (host to the Second Continental Congress) and state's growth, it was obvious there'd be some great sights to see.

Looking online for books with a local connection, I ran across Scott Butcher's "York's Historic Architecture." The purchase was a good one, and at a reasonable price.

The book includes a six page historical introduction and an ending chapter on preservation, but a bulk of the book's 160 pages deals with specific buildings, noting the name of the building, the address and several paragraphs on the history and particular architectural interest of the property. Many of the entries include a black and white photograph to help identify the building and jog the memory after seeing it in person.

Chapters are organized by streets, many of which are in the downtown area, so it easily led to possibilities for photowalk routes. A pleasant Saturday morning in York walking the downtown area helped refine our path.

While participants are welcome to do a traditional photowalk deciding upon photo subjects as they appear, I'd encourage everyone to consider picking up the book. At less than $20.00, it's a great resource for not only the walk, but also for reading about history's influence on a city.

Author Scott Butcher has graciously agreed to participate in the photowalk, and will be available to answer our local questions on York history and architecture.

• Sources

"York's Historic Architecture" by Scott D. Butcher

The History Press

Charleston, SC

2008

ISBN 978.1.59629.503.2

c

Barnes and Noble

The History Press (Sales through Amazon)

Or your local bookstore. For York area readers, the following typically carry the book:

The York County Heritage Trust Gift Shop at 250 East Market St. in York

The York Emporium bookstore on West Market St.

Borders at 3000 Whiteford Rd.

The Historic York Architectural Warehouse store at 465 Prospect St.

• Scott D. Butcher Biography

Scott has a unique blend of experiences and skills that allow him to speak with authority on the York area and its interest to photographers. He is currently employed by JDB Engineering and holds both a B.S. in Marketing (Penn State) and a Certificate in Professional Photography (New York Institute of Photography.)

In addition to extensive writing experience in the field of professional marketing, Mr. Butcher has authored numerous tourism-related works and has been active with many different local organizations.

His history background focuses on local architecture and area Civil War interests. These passions have led Scott to author several books, including the primary resource for our walk, "York's Historic Buildings."

We welcome Mr. Butcher to our walk and look forward to meeting him!