What Makes a Town Unique?

I've been thinking a lot lately about what makes a town unique? The town I live in has some interesting stories. This hotel pictured above changed its name during the Civil War when news reached town that southern troops were on their way. Before that it was known as the Union House.

Or could my town be unique because the founder's descendant was married to Benedict Arnold.

My town has many churches. I love these old original photos of my church.

What is special about the town you live in? Chime in for your chance to win the following:

Ghost Towns

I've stumbled across some information while I was in the midst of researching the other night. I discovered an article about ghost towns in Kansas. I was trying to find a setting for a book I'm working on.

It listed all the towns in Kansas that are now ghost towns. Some only lasted for a few years after they were established.

Things like that get my mind stirring. Who lived there? What was the story of the people who resided there? What caused them to abandon their homes and livelihood and move somewhere else? What would have happened if they stayed?

Such is the life of a writer. :)

What do you think of when you see or hear of ghost towns?

Immersed in History

I've stepped back in time today. I know this isn't a great photo, but it shows my town from years ago. I actually have a list of businesses and townspeople from 1878, and I'm charting them on a map of my own making.

The more I chart the town, the more I can see my character walking past each of the businesses. Once I finish this, I'll be able to finalize my characters too... at least to some degree. :)

This book has taken a lot of detailed research to make sure I get things accurate. I'm getting excited as I get one step closer to actually beginning the writing process. Hopefully within a day or two I'll actually be able to start the novel.

For now.... you'll find me immersed in history.

Fodder for a Story

I love this photo with the train coming through town. Notice the guy with his head down and stepping across the tracks?

It makes me wonder what's on his mind that he doesn't seem to notice how close the train is to him. Observing things like this can become fodder for a story.

Asking those 'what if' questions.

What questions arise for you when you see this photo?

Step Back Into History

All of my growing up years, I hated history. Well, that isn't exactly true. I disliked trying to memorize dates for a test and trying to figure out how it all fit together. Now as an adult I find the 'stories' in history utterly fascinating.

I recently have been having fun digging into this newspaper.

Although I haven't actually started the writing process yet, I know I'll include a scene or two from this local university.

I enjoyed seeing this picture when I visited my local historical society a week ago:

What fascinates you about history? Have you ever dug into any of the local stories from where you live?