South Pasadena is undoubtedly fertile ground when it comes to history. With its shining legacy of prevalent landmarks, it is recognized for its preservationist achievements like few other cities in the nation. Steadfastly protecting its beautiful neighborhoods and small town charms against the threats to which so many other areas have succumbed, it continues to thrive even though it’s a mere 6 miles from downtown LA. Its distinctive cultural character has been protected by one generation after another, passed down like a one-of-a-kind heirloom.
Residents and visitors alike can stroll its streets in any direction and quickly observe much that is worthy of admiration. As glorious as they are, however, so many of South Pasadena’s most noteworthy historical resources, be they beautiful homes, old-fashioned streetscapes, shady avenues, or rolling hillsides, are nonetheless inanimate. But one of the most important South Pasadena historical resources lives in a city to the north, remains very active, and has breathed a lot of life into local history.
Jane Apostol is one of California’s most respected historians. She’s written 13 acclaimed books including Painting with Light: A Centennial History of the Judson Studio, Museums Along the Arroyo, and Vroman’s of Pasadena: A Century of Books. Her first book, the award-winning South Pasadena: A Centennial History 1888 to 1998 appeared in 1987 and was the first book-length history of the city. It remains unparalleled for its scholarship and ability to communicate to a broad audience. The book quickly sold out and is now a highly sought collector’s item.
The South Pasadena Public Library and the Friends of the South Pasadena Public Library are publishing a new expanded edition on November 1stt entitled South Pasadena: A Centennial History 1888-1988, Second Edition with Chronology, 1988-2008. The updated book offers many new photos and again displays Jane’s sharply focused yet perceptive prose style. It also retains the classic artistry of internationally-recognized book designer Ward Ritchie (1905-1996), as well as the original Introduction by Lawrence Clark Powell (1906-2001), one of the top writers and literary critics of the American West. Incidentally, both of the lifelong friends grew up in South Pasadena using the Library.
The appearance of the long-anticipated chronicle is cause for celebration. A Release Party and Book Signing event is scheduled for Saturday, November 1 from 1:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. in the Library Community Room at 1115 El Centro Street. The event will be the first opportunity for purchasers to pick up copies.
From September 1st to October 31st, the book can be ordered for the pre-publication price of only $34.95 by using one of the order forms in the Library or the Friends Book Store located upstairs. Beginning November 1st at the Book Signing the price will be $44.95 per book. The event will also be an opportunity for many book buyers to meet Jane who stated, “South Pasadena is a special place and it’s been a pleasure to work with such a dedicated group of volunteers.”
South Pasadena: A Centennial History 1888-1988, Second Edition with Chronology, 1988-2008 by Jane Apostol is a must for any South Pasadena household and will be a cherished keepsake for generations to come. Obviously, it will make a great holiday gift too. |
