A local effort is underway to preserve the history of Salem, Iowa for future generations.
The Salem History Book Committee has announced plans to publish a second edition of Place of Peace: Memories of Salem, Iowa. The original book, which covered the years 1835 to 1996, is now outdated and no longer easily reproduced due to changes in printing technology.
The updated edition will include both historical content from the original book and new information covering the years 1996 through 2026. Committee members say they’ve already begun gathering and organizing materials for the expanded publication.
Plans call for printing 250 copies of the book, which will be produced as an 8.5 x 11-inch hardcover edition with approximately 250 pages. The total cost of printing is estimated at $11,000, which must be paid upfront.
To help cover those costs, the committee is seeking sponsors at levels ranging from $100 to $1,000. Sponsors will receive special recognition in the front section of the book. Pre-orders will also be offered.
If all goes according to plan, the new edition is expected to be printed by late August and available during Salem’s Old Settlers celebration.
Anyone interested in sponsoring the project can send contributions to the Salem Library. Checks should be made payable to the Salem History Book Committee.
Committee members say the project is an important way to preserve Salem’s heritage and share its stories with generations to come.