“Pioneers of Second Fork” book released

St. Marys Daily Press http://www.smdailypress.com/content/view/211825/
Elk County native Jim Burke recently released his first book, “Pioneers of Second Fork,” which traces the history of 16 families of early pioneers who came to settle in western Pennsylvania at a location originally known as Second Fork.Today the area is known as Bennett’s Valley.
Burke explained that he has always had a passion for local history and this is what inspired him to write the book. In the past Burke has written articles for several magazines. He is working with the Mt. Zion Historical Society on plans to publish a diary of a local citizen who was a veteran of the Civil War.
“I’m also considering writing a book on fiction that deals some events of local history,” Burke said.Burke noted that “Pioneers of Second Fork” was an extensive effort and he has notes from the project dating back to the 1960s. “I interviewed many of the descendants of the families who were the early settlers profiled in the book. In this endeavor we obtained many pictures and documents,” Burke said. “We also visited many libraries, museums, and historical societies.”He noted that obtaining information for the book took him to locations such as the town of Winslow in Maine, Andersonville Prison in Georgia and Plymouth Harbor.
He added that all 16 families profiled in the book provided some very interesting information about the history of the area. Some of the stories focus on events such as a shoot-out on the banks of the Sinnemahoning, encounters with indians, and the Paul Bunyan of the Bennett’s Branch. “I also discovered that one of our native sons, born on Rock Hill and educated in Caledonia, is acknowledged as the founder of Los Angles, California,” Burke said.
“Pioneers of Second Fork” is available for purchase at several local locations including from Ben Stone in Benezette, the Valley Farm Market, Burkes Home Center, St. Marys Chamber of Commerce, St. Marys Country Club and the Elk County Historical Society. It can also be purchased online from the Mt. Zion Historical Society or from the publisher, AuthorHouse. Burke also noted that in researching the book he met a wide variety of interesting and knowledgeable people and it would be virtually impossible to acknowledge all of them.
Burke is a lifelong resident of Elk County and is actively involved with the Mt. Zion Historical Society. He noted that the Mt. Zion Historical Park was a dream of his parents, Joseph and Helen Burke.
“When my father passed away I assumed the duties as president of the society. I might add that the society has a very active board of directors, and through their combined efforts have developed the park to what it is today,” Burke said.
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