Local authors publish pictorial history of Marble Falls
Jane Knapik (left) and Amanda Rose hold a copy of the book 'Images of America-Marble Falls' on which they collaborated. The book, which comes out Aug. 26, gives a pictorial history of Marble Falls. It features hundreds of photographs, many probably never seen by the general public. The book, published by Arcadia Publishing, will retail for $21.99. It will be available at local retailers, online bookstores or through Arcadia Publishing at www.arcadiapublishing.com or by calling (888) 313-2665. Staff photo by Daniel Clifton
DANIEL CLIFTON • PICAYUNE EDITOR
MARBLE FALLS — There’s nothing like holding a book in your hands, especially one you wrote. Recently, Jane Knapik and Amanda Rose found out just what that feels like as they held “Images of America — Marble Falls,” a book on which the two collaborated.”She wrote most of it,” Rose said pointing at Knapik. “I was more of the technical person.”
Knapik smiled.
“We both did it,” she said. “I don’t think it would have happened without you.”
The book, which goes on sale Aug. 26, takes a look at Marble Falls history through photos. Knapik penned captions below each photo as the book tells the story of the town and its people.
“A lot of these photos, I don’t think many people have ever seen,” Knapik said. Rose agreed. She pointed out several photos just glancing through the book that she had never seen before.
“(Jane) did a lot of work getting all these photos,” said Rose, who is an assistant librarian at the Marble Falls Public Library.
Knapik turned to several sources for photos including the Falls on the Colorado Museum. Other photos came from local residents and families. One of the most important resources was a woman who was often referred to as the Marble Falls historian.
“We owe a lot to Madolyn Fraser, who really worked hard at keeping up with Marble Falls history,” Knapik said.
Fraser passed away in 2012.
The book breaks down Marble Falls into six chapters focusing on the first settlers of southern Burnet County; Marble Falls and Granite Mountain; Main Street; schools and churches; modern Marble Falls; and nearby historic communities.
The photos represent many aspects of life in Marble Falls. Knapik and Rose even located a photo of Marble Falls soldiers who trained as Rough Riders in the Spanish-American War.
“It’s just fascinating to see all the history right here,” Knapik said.
She hopes longtime residents and newcomers will discover the book. The photos provide links to the past that help give roots to everybody within the community.
Knapik began working on the book about a year ago when she crossed paths with Arcadia Publishing. The company focuses on local and regional books.
The Images of America book series gives readers a pictorial look at communities across the country. The Marble Falls edition joins a Burnet one for local residents and history buffs to enjoy.
“Images of America — Marble Falls” from Arcadia Publishing will retail for $21.99. It will be available at local retailers, online bookstores or through Arcadia Publishing at www.arcadiapublishing.com or by calling (888) 313-2665.
“I’m excited it’s here,” Knapik said.
daniel@thepicayune.com