Michael Hayes

Oak Hill: Voices from an American Hamlet: an Oral History Michael Hayes First edition

Based upon research and interviews, this book chronicles the recent history of a rural hamlet. It is an engrossing work that examines topics as diverse as the economic structure, the impact of local baseball on the inhabitants' lives and the lasting influence that war had not only on the soldier in combat but also on the returned veteran. Additionally, the author elicits from the people of Oak Hill insights into their religious beliefs and customs. He offers a rich portrait of this small village and its people. Relying heavily on oral history, this work also utilizes previously untapped primary sources such as privately owned letters and diaries. Much of this material was analyzed with the cooperation of the local family members and friends who possess these items. A wonderful sampling of photographs from area private collections enhances the fabric of this book's content.