Author Helps Those Researching Family History in the Albany, NY Area a Little Easier - Thanks Joe Yakel

A 'must-have' for upstate New York history buffs who seek out obscure, yet detailed reference materials, or for those who simply enjoy reading family history, and like to reminisce about the 'olden days'. Research focused on South End families of the late 19th century.

(PRWEB) February 20, 2005 -- "The Autograph Memories of Mary Yakel" is a wonderful book containing personal poems, comments, words of hope and comfort from Yakel family members and friends. Originally penned in Albany, NY, primarily in the 1896-1897 time period, the book contains the names of many local families.

"Personal research references, especially for families who once lived in the South End area of Albany, are very difficult to come by", said Yakel. "Lower Albany had a very strong mix of European immigrants, especially Germans, throughout the 19th century. These were spirited, hard working people, that helped to build the city's distinction through their values and all kinds of family run businesses", he explained. "Unfortunately, unlike other parts of the city, such as the Central Avenue thoroughfare and the downtown district of Pearl Street, documentation relative to much of the South End, especially around the Second Avenue area, is far and few between." He added, "Knowing that others have experienced the same frustration I have felt while trying to find useful research information about the lower Albany area and families, I decided to take a wonderful source of family history I already had in my possession, my grand aunt's autograph book, and make it available to other researchers. The book mentions dozens of surnames and individuals, and it's this kind of personal information that brings family history and genealogical research alive. I'm excited to share this book, and help to preserve the family history of Albany."

Joseph Yakel, a third generation Albany native, presents this unique family work with a simple elegance that is certain to be enjoyed. To start, Joe provides some personal details on the life of his grand aunt, Mary Yakel, and her family. Then, below each original page entry, of which some are translated German text, Joe has added interesting details about each person or family mentioned in the book, if known. There are over 30 surnames fully indexed in this keepsake. The cover art and the background images come directly from the original autograph book, and provide warmth as well as symmetry from page to page.

The Autograph Memories of Mary Yakel can be purchased directly from Lulu.com. Pricing is $9.00, plus any applicable sales tax and shipping charges.

Printed: 74 pages, 8.5 x 11.0 in., Saddle-stitch-bound, 80# white interior paper, black and white interior ink, 100# white exterior paper, full-color (CMYK) exterior
ISBN: 1-4116-2101-8
Copyright Year: © 2004
http://www.lulu.com/content/95637

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