MONTANA HISTORICAL SOCIETY BOOK WINS NATIONAL AWARD
The American Association for State and Local History has awarded its prestigious Award of Merit for Leadership in History to the Montana Historical Society for Beyond Spirit Tailings, a collection of stories of the supernatural.
Society Interpretive Historian Ellen Baumler wrote the book, which is based on her years of research into local historic properties and sites across Montana. It is a follow up to her also popular Spirit Tailings book that was based on stories from early Montana mining towns.
"This program was initiated in 1945 to establish and encourage standards of excellence in the collection, preservation, and interpretation of state and local history throughout the United States," AASLH Spokesperson Bethany Hawkins said.
Only 84 organizations and individuals from across the United States received the award in 2006 from AASLH, which is based in Nashville, Tennessee, she said.
"Ellen's two books have been among the best sellers that we have ever published. We are very proud of this award and the attention it has brought to Montana history and heritage," Society Press Director Molly Holz said.
The nomination for the Society award was supported by former Secretary of State and long-time legislator Mike Cooney, and Montana author Stan Lynde of Helena.
Beyond Spirit Tailings is a 200-page book that includes 20 illustrations sells for $13.95 and is available at local bookstores across the state, or can be ordered directly, plus shipping and handling, from the Montana Historical Society by calling toll-free 1-800-243-9900.
