Public History

How is local history thought about? How should it be approached? What is the context behind local events and institutions? Where does one start? Through brief, succinct notes and essay-length entries, the Encyclopedia of Local History presents ideas to consider, sources to use, historical fields and trends to explore. It also provides commentary on a number of subjects, including the everyday topics that most historians encounter. Useful appendixes provide information on ethnic groups, religious organizations, and immigration.

On Doing Local History is a practical guide for local historians. Carol Kammen is a professional historian and author of the column "On Doing Local History" published in History News: The Magazine of the American Association for State and Local History. (The 3rd edition published in 2014 is available through WorldCat.)

The last thirty years have seen a huge growth of interest in local and family history, both as subjects for the general enthusiast and as an area of academic study. With over 2,000 entries this Companion caters admirably for this growing popularity by providing detailed summaries of the latest knowledge in such fields as social, urban, agricultural, legal, family, and ecclesiastical history.