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BERKS HISTORICAL SOCIETY
BOOK REVIEW
Berks County Women
in History
Profiles, Vol. 1
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It's difficult to believe that there has been only one
attempt---a not very comprehensive collection by Cyrus Fox in 1925---to compile an extensive array of
biographical sketches since Morton L. Montgomery's
“Historical and Biographical Annals of Berks” in 1909.
This publication helps to fill that void. Moreover, Volume 2 is in the process of preparation, which
probably will present another 100 "personal histories."
It should be noted that unlike the bios found in Montgomery's 2-volume set, the profiles in B.C. Women
in History actually read more like a story than an encyclopedia entry. You'll find them an easy and
pleasant read.
Lest anyone comment that not every individual in Volume 1 is of earth-shaking historical importance, we hasten to
remind readers that not every inclusion in Montgomery's Historical and Biographical Annals was either.
The late Dr. Arthur D. Graeff, whose observations were always cogent, once remarked that Montgomery's general
style and 19th century rhetoric could transform an Oley Street cigar-maker or an obscure farmer in
Bethel into a personage seemingly as significant as some European crown prince.
We applaud this laudable effort on the part of the Berks County Commission for Woman for taking the initiative
to gather about 100 biographical "stories" which will be valued ever more greatly with each passing year.
One hopes that others will follow the BCCW's lead and prepare similar collections...maybe a “Who's Who in
Berks” or something akin to that which Montgomery had published 81 years ago. In the offing is a serious
effort to document numerous Italian-American families of Reading and Berks, a project some 10 years in the works.
Think how many people--men and women, respected and valued in their time and place--came and went during the
last 97 years, leaving little "on paper" beyond their immediate families’ recollections and
jottings-- and an obituary--to mark their stay and accomplishments on this
planet.
Your editor finds the Berks County Women in History Profile book a significant compilation, neatly organized
and attractive, which is the hallmark of Irene Reed, its editor. Barbara Donovan served as copy editor.
Price is $35 -- plus $2.10 tax for PA residents -- plus $4 postage. Make checks to Berks County Commission
for Women and mail to P. O. Box 12225, Reading 19612.
Locals can get the book at the BCCW Women's History Museum at the GoggleWorks (5th Floor), 2nd and Washington
Sts., Reading. The hours are noon to 4 pm, Saturday and Sunday.
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