In case you haven’t heard, Andalusia is the subject of new book by local author, Kristy Shuford White. Her first book signing will be hosted this Sunday by Art Supporting Art, an alliance of regional artists and the Andalusia Ballet. The event will be held at the Church Street Cultural Arts Center beginning at 1:30 p.m. All are invited to attend. A collection of historic Andalusia prints from Henry Kinsey and Bob Brooks will be displayed and members of the Covington Historical Society will be on hand to answer questions. Local modern photography by Robert Evers and Denille Spears will complete this photographic exhibition of Andalusia. Displayed images will be available to purchase at the event. Proceeds from book sales benefit the Covington Historical Society for the continued preservation of the Three Notch Museum.

Published by Arcadia, Andalusia is an entry in the well-known Images of America series that celebrates the history of neighborhoods, towns, and cities across the country. Each title presents the distinctive stories from the past that shape the character of the community today.

White spent many late nights and weekends huddled over historic photos and local history books to produce the work. Kinsey and Brooks provided her with the historic photos that started the book. Aided by her mother and husband, she then scanned images from the Three Notch Museum collection. Buildings that needed to be rephotographed were done by local artists Robert Evers, Denille Spears, and Charles White (her husband). Local historians assisted with their knowledge for picture captions. Arcadia made the final decision on which images were included.

White said that though Andalusia has a rich history, the book was limited by the images she could find representing Andalusia prior to 1950 and the limitations for word count provided by the publisher. She says she’s sure there are pictures held privately that could have been included in the book. She encourages residents to contact the Covington Historical Society to get any historical images scanned so the collection at the Three Notch Museum can be more comprehensive.

Books are $21.99 and can be purchased from Andalusia Civitan members, the LAAC Gallery, St. Mary’s, Harold’s Furniture, both locations of Darby’s Pharmacy, David’s Catfish, Christian Book and Gift, Walker Business Supply, Andalusia Area Chamber of Commerce, and T & C Pharmacy in Opp.