Finger Lakes Memories (NY) (Images of America)

Finger Lakes Memories takes a long, mesmerizing look back at a land of 11 lakes, a land of monasteries and mansions, a U.S. president, abolitionists, women's rights activists, Mark Twain, early aviation, and superb universities. Featuring the work of early-20th-century photographer George Bentley Corby, the book reflects the remarkable scenic beauty of the area before commercial and residential development. Poignant and often zestful photographs of farm labors, school chums, and small-town life emerge from a region where, like welcoming hands, the Finger Lakes beckon all to their safe solitudes, there to be inspired, comforted, educated, and encouraged. It is doubtful there is another book that so totally and vividly captures the everyday life of the era.