His is the first and only comprehensive book about the March 21, 1917, double murder that shook the Crestview area.
Collins will visit the Crestview History Museum on Saturday for “Books on the Porch,” a celebration of all things literary, where he will sign copies of his exhaustively researched history of the robbery gone wrong, which led to Crestview’s first public hanging. The museum is housed in the historic Bush House on South Wilson Street.
“Books on the Porch” will also offer lovingly read books to plop down and read during your visit and for sale by the bag. Proceeds benefit the non-profit Crestview Historic Preservation Board.
Readers of all ages are invited to bring the book in which they’re currently engrossed or feel free to select one they’ll find around the museum. Then settle down on the porch or in the parlor (if it’s too hot on the porch) and enjoy a nice glass of free cold lemonade as they delve into the delights of book reading.
During Collins’s remarks, visitors will learn that researching “Mystery at Green Pond” was sometimes arduous.
“I walked the railroad tracks from Milton to Crestview taking photos along the way,” he said. “I used maps, a compass (yes, I’m a stubborn old Marine) and satellite imagery to traverse swamps and thick forest growth to capture some of the photos included in this book.”
Collins drew an overflow crowd to his recent book signing at the Baker Block Museum and his “Mystery at Green Pond” is thrilling readers throughout the area. At the book signing, copies were flying off the table.
“Books on the Porch” is another great opportunity to buy a copy before they’re sold out. The hardcover book costs $39 plus tax.
“Books on the Porch” is the Crestview History Museum’s Second Saturday event for August and runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Collins will visit from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and will offer remarks around 11:30 a.m. Admission is free. The History Museum is at 198 S. Wilson St.
Editor’s note: Brian Hughes is the city of Crestview’s cultural services specialist.