Savannah Town Historian John Spellman has just released his latest book, “Returning to Savannah 2007,” at a book signing event held at the Savannah American Legion last month.

This book is an exciting compilation of the former historical book, “Historical Notes of Savannah,” written and published in 1975, which comprised a section on the Indian Heritage of our community written by Harold Secor and John's portion of the book which covers the history from 1800 to 1975.

Two new sections are added which feature the changes within Savannah from 1975 to the present and historical observations of Mid- 20th century Savannah written by Robert K. Mead on his memories of growing up in Savannah.

John states that one of the highlights of this book is the amazing changes that have taken place in Savannah since 1975. John includes the dissolution of the village of Savannah, the growth of local businesses, the introduction of Savannah Dhu and the Robert Congel Family, the ever changing economy with the introduction of the Wetland Complex and The Montezuma Audubon Center; just to mention a few of the new additions.

This new book has more than 140 pictures of Savannah that will arouse the interest of many as they try to envision Savannah as it was. There are several pictures of the Trolley and Railroad stations, which have never been published before, along with many other new photos that John has gathered as the town historian.

Many Savannah people, who have already purchased their copy, have commented how they find the book both very interesting and easy to read. Much of that ease is the result of the work of Kathleen L. Malone who edited, revised and excerpted the entire book, and we thank her for all her efforts.

Historian John Spellman called upon Robert K. Mead, a historian in his own right, to add some personal memories of growing up in Savannah in the 1930-1940s. Bob has written two books regarding the Savannah Area, “Howland's Island History” and “Savannah Muckland Farming History.” During those years, Bob lived very near John's family, and we are sure he heard several of the same stories from Michael Spellman as did John.

John shares a photograph of his grandmother and great-grandmother in the dedication of his book where he acknowledges the contributions of the pioneer women who were key to the development of these lands.

“Returning to Savannah 2007” has been sponsored by the Town of Savannah, The Savannah Chamber of Commerce and the Savannah Community Club. The monies collected from this book will be set aside for the restoration of the Opera Hall located in the current town hall, which was erected in November of 1908 after the fire which destroyed much of Main Street in Savannah. These books are available at the Savannah Town Hall, The Savannah National Bank and the Montezuma Audubon Center at the cost of $20 or you may call John Spellman at 365-3156, if you would like an autographed copy.

Carol Spellman proudly lives and writes from her home in Savannah. You can reach her at spellmanjc@tds.net