Alton Illinois, A Pictorial History

Author:  Charlotte Stetson      Signed by Author, dated 11-26-1986

Cover Artist:  Jack Buese         Signed by Cover Artist, Jack Buese.

Advisor: Robert K. Graul         Signed by Robert K. Graul, Chief Photographer for the Telegraph.

Publisher:  G. Bradley Publishing, Inc.

First Edition. 1986. Limited Edition #481 of 2000.

This Pictorial History of Alton, Illinois on the bluffs of the Mississippi River is a magnificent work telling the story of the founding and life of a river community determined to make the best of its citizens and resources over the challenges of time. There are too many wonderful stories of this place and its people to even begin to summarize them in this brief overview. Sit down with the book and read of its history and see the amazing collection of historic photographs of people, things and places that can never be seen again.

A numbered First Edition, the book is also signed by its author, Charlotte Stetson and by its Cover Artist, Jack Buese. Featured throughout the book are many photographs by Robert K. Graul, taken over 50 years as former Chief Photographer of the Telegraph, Alton’s local newspaper. Other photographs came from the collections of local families, with their own histories through many generations.  The Project to compile this treasured commemorative 150^th Anniversary history was sponsored by First National Bank & Trust Co. of Alton.

This cherished treasure has been well-cared for and appears “as new,” except for the noted signatures.  It is considered in “Near Fine” condition.