Shelton Author’s New Book Worth Checking Out

In her new book, Naugatuck Valley Textile Industry, Shelton author Mary Ruth Shields outlines the history of the textile industry in the Valley from the early 1800s to the 1950s. 

The book begins with a brief but informative introduction that outlines the Naugatuck Valley’s change from a primarily agricultural area to a more industrialized location.  The remainder of the book is divided into 10 chapters, each prefaced with a short introduction about the chapter’s subject matter. 

 Among the topics Shields covers in her book are waterpower and its effect on Valley industry, the wool and rubber industries and the female garments industry.  She also dedicates a chapter to Sidney Blumenthal, a pioneer in the textile industry who provided benefits to his workers before such a practice was commonplace. 

Each of the book’s chapters are highlighted with a collection of photographs obtained from private and public collections, including the Shelton Historical Society and the Plumb Memorial Library.  Shields also includes some photographs of her subjects’ modern existence, which provides an excellent contrast against their past uses. 

At first glance, a history book composed almost entirely of pictures may not seem very informative but Shields does a good job of combining them with historical information.  Each photograph is accompanied by a brief caption explaining what the image is of as well as background information on that topic. 

For those looking to expand their knowledge of the area they live in, Shield’s book is an excellent place to start.  The photographs included within the book show just how much Shelton and neighboring towns have changed in such a short span of time. 

Shields’ book is a great read for a person of any age but because of how laid out, it would be an excellent addition to the Shelton schools’ curriculum.  Students and teachers alike might find the pictures more engaging in the classroom than constant lines of text and because the subject matter is local, the lessons could be highlighted with field trips to locations mentioned in the book. 

Those who already have knowledge of the Valley’s textile industry may not find as much information as they are hoping to in Shields’ book, but overall Naugatuck Valley Textile Industry is a good read for anyone who is looking to learn more about the history of Shelton and its neighboring towns. 

Naugatuck Valley Textile Industry retails for $21.99 and is available at local bookstores and online retailers.  The book can also be purchased directly from Arcadia Publishing at www.arcadiapublishing.com or by calling (888)-313-2665.  A portion of all profits from the sale of the book will be donated to history centers located in the Valley.