RYE — A new book from the Rye Historical Society (RHS) offers a glimpse into the town’s past through more than a century of vintage photographs.
“Rye Through the Lens,” compiled by Collections Committee Chair Lew Karabatsos, features more than 160 black-and-white images dating from 1880 to 1985. The collection documents everyday life, from fishermen and farmers to schoolchildren and family gatherings, along with coastal scenes, lifesaving stations, and activity at Rye Harbor and the shoreline. They also highlight families such as the Parsons, Caswells, Philbricks, and Fosses.
“Photography has played an important role in documenting life in Rye,” said Karabatsos.
“Beyond the town’s two professional photographers, residents eventually acquired their own cameras and used them to capture everyday moments, creating a visual narrative of Rye over a 100-year period.”
The book is part of Arcadia Publishing’s Images of America series and coincides with the town’s 300th anniversary as a parish, the RHS’ 50th anniversary and the nation’s 250th celebration.
RHS President Andy Schecter said the project highlights the organization’s mission to preserve and share local history. “We’re proud to bring these images to the community,” he said.
“Rye Through the Lens” will be released on Oct. 24, 2026. Copies may be pre-ordered at www.ryenhhistoricalsociety.org.
An author talk and book signing with Karabatsos is planned for Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026 at 11:30 a.m. at the Rye Public Library. An exhibition of contemporary images of Rye by local photographers will be exhibited in conjunction with the event. Proceeds from the book sales benefit the Rye Historical Society.
About the Rye Historical Society
The Rye Historical Society in Rye, New Hampshire, is a private non-profit organization founded in 1976 following the town's bicentennial celebration to preserve, protect, and share the rich farming, fishing, and coastal resort history of Rye