Historical Society Exhibit Tells Of Storytellers From Nyack, Nearby

Editor's Note: The exhibit will open May 28. The date was incorrect in the original version of this report.

NYACK, NY — Nyack has been home to authors and illustrators of children's books for a century. Now an exhibit at the Historical Society of the Nyacks will showcase 14 local authors, illustrators, and author/illustrators who lived in or near Nyack and featured the village in their works.

Opening May 28, "Storytellers from Nyack and Nearby" will include fascinating stories about the authors and illustrators, reviews of some of their noteworthy books, and many stunning illustrations. Many of the books will be available for guests to peruse. Several of the books are set in Nyack, with scenes from decades ago, but still recognizable.

The Nyack community's important role in children’s literature began in 1927 when Macmillan Publishers chose Berta and Elmer Hader to write and illustrate the first children’s book by American authors published in the U.S.

A committee picked the others from a list of 119 Rockland County authors. Some of those featured are well known in other endeavors including Toni Morrison, Carson McCullers, Helen Hayes and Ben Hecht.

"Our seven curators have found creative ways to familiarize visitors with our unusual mix of storytellers," said Mimi Hoffman, Historical Society of the Nyacks Trustee and exhibit committee chair. "We are especially thrilled to re-introduce guests to Yaroslava Mills, a published author and illustrator since 1969. New York Magazine recently featured her Ukrainian folk images which have always conveyed attributes the world has recently come to revere.”

"Storytellers from Nyack and Nearby" opens from 1-4 p.m. May 21 at the society’s museum at 50 Piermont Ave., Nyack and continues Saturdays through July. Enter via the Nyack Library parking lot.

Donations at the exhibit will be appreciated and help fund future exhibits. The Historical Society of the Nyacks is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to researching, preserving, and fostering appreciation of the history of the Nyack community.