History professor will hold signing
for new book on local farm bureau

Northern Illinois University Press and the DeKalb County Farm Bureau will host a public reception for History Professor Eric Mogren's new book, “Native Soil: A History of the DeKalb County Farm Bureau.”

The reception will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 14, at the Farm Bureau, 1350 W. Prairie Drive, Sycamore. The event will feature a presentation by the author followed by a book signing. Refreshments will also be served.

“Native Soil” details the rich history of the DeKalb County Farm Bureau, one of the oldest, most innovative and most influential agricultural organizations in the United States. In this study, Mogren explains how one group of progressive farmers attempted to cope with the problems they faced as agriculture turned to mechanization and productive farming required scientific and technological advances. “Native Soil” will be of interest to DeKalb County residents, farmers and those concerned with America's agricultural past.

The DeKalb County Farm Bureau worked closely with Mogren and NIU Press to provide historical data and documents. The book features 55 photos from the early 1900s to the present. “We've never had one single source that provided such a thorough presentation of our organization's history,” said Doug Dashner, manager of the DeKalb County Farm Bureau. “ ‘Native Soil' will be a great facilitator in spreading the story of our rich heritage and accomplishments.”

The DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation partnered with the late Charlie Roberts to commission the development of this important literary work.

“NIU Press is delighted to publish a local-interest book which helps strengthen our ties with the community,” said Mary Lincoln, director of NIU Press. Besides publishing on a variety of topics in the humanities, arts and sciences, NIU Press also focuses on the history of Chicago and the Midwest.

The author is associate professor of history at NIU and author of “Warm Sands,” another book on environmental history.

“Native Soil” will be available for purchase at the reception for $24.95. Cash, check, Visa and Mastercard will be accepted. Please call NIU Press at (815) 753-1826 or the Farm Bureau at (815) 756-6361 with any questions.

Those unable to attend the reception can purchase the book directly through NIU Press at (815) 753-1075, at a local bookstore or online at www.niupress.niu.edu.

10-24-05