Historian Jane Apostol's writing and research prowess can be described as extraordinary. Her ability to exhume the smallest, yet still significant historical detail is inspiring. Clearly she shows great dedication to her craft and passion the reveal oft-overlooked nuggets of local history. She has made significant contributions to the local history record, none more astounding than the expanded second edition of her first book, "South Pasadena: A Centennial History: 1888-1988".

In the original, Mrs. Apostol gave us answers to questions such as, "What did the Monterey Hills look like when they were just hills?" And, "What business stood in Buster's location long before it served ice cream?" This new edition, "South Pasadena: A Centennial History: 1888-1988; Second Edition with Chronology: 1988-2008" picks up where the last one left off, answering the question, "What has happened in the community the last twenty years?" And oh, what answers they are.

A native of Maryland, Jane Apostol graduated from Goucher College with a major in English literature. She began her life as a Californian in 1949, and here she wrote write her thirteen books, in addition to dozens of journal articles. Her writing has been honored with numerous awards. Mrs. Apostol has the enviable ability to engage her readers while educating them. She informs us while eliciting a large dose of history and pride in what is essentially a small town.

Jane's talents are particularly evident in "South Pasadena: A Centennial History: 1888-1988; Second Edition with Chronology: 1988-2008". It paints vivid pictures, allowing readers to visualize the first brick of adobe being laid and the last slab of cement drying on the freeway. The chronology of each decade's important events makes her pearls of information singularly accessible.

Mrs. Apostol lyrically recounts the history of all that comprises South Pasadena-the schools, the Library, the churches, the society, and so many of the people and places that form the backbone of the community. Doyce B. Nunis, Jr., Editor of the "Southern California Quarterly" said that "the highly readable text, the splendid organization, [and] the solid research...warrant the highest praise."

As the new Local History Librarian for the South Pasadena Public Library, I turn to the book daily. It is frequently the first place I look for answers to research requests from the public. Often I need look no further. The new edition of the coffee table book is the best present I could have as I seek more local history knowledge. Jane's work is so appealing because it is written for each and every one of us.

And what, you might ask, are the answers to those questions you've been asking yourselves all these years? You won't be getting them from me. I wouldn't dare presume to share what Mrs. Apostol can tell you in a more authoritative manner and more charming style. You'll have to read for yourself.

The hardback "South Pasadena: A Centennial History: 1888-1988; Second Edition with Chronology: 1988-2008" can be purchased in the Friends Bookstore in the South Pasadena Public Library for $44.95 or by mail order for $50.95 (includes $6 per book for shipping and handling). A check made out to "The Friends of the South Pasadena Public Library"
should be sent to "Apostol Book" at the South Pasadena Public Library, 1100 Oxley Street, South Pasadena, CA 91030 for all mail order requests. For further questions, call the Friends Bookstore at (626) 441-5294.

Current edition
    Fall 2009 (pdf)