Virginia History

Incorporating recent events in the Native American community as well as additional information gleaned from publications and public resources, this newly redesigned and updated second edition of First People brings back to the fore this concise and highly readable narrative. Full of stories that represent the full diversity of Virginia's Indians, past and present, this popular book remains the essential introduction to the history of Virginia Indians from the earlier times to the present day.

In the Watchfires is a remarkable book that contributes not only to Loudon County history, but to African American and United States history. Emancipation Day celebrations come to life in its pages and illuminate the community that created them. Part memoir and part history, it demonstrates how rural African Americans cultivated racial pride and civic activism that laid the groundwork for the civil rights movement. The celebrations chapter and the epilouge are written in the first person and are rich and evocative. Between them, the author presents a well-documented history and informed interpretation of the Loudoun County Emancipation Association and its role in the community. Her biographical directory highlights numerous men and women whose civic contributions might otherwise go unrecognized. Many photographs, maps, and drawings further enliven the book. In the Watchfires will delight and inform a wide audience, from children and general readers to genealogists and scholars. -Deborah A. Lee, Ph.D., Resident Fellow, Virginia Foundation for the Humanities Author: Elaine E. Thompson. Publisher: Friends of the Thomas Balch Library. Paperback, 88 pages. Measures 6" x 9". Weighs 7.6 oz.