After an early retirement, I pursued my lifelong interests in genealogy, writing and photography. My first two books were born out of my combined interests -- my first book, From New York to Indiana, being a history of my family from 1786. My second book, The Collector, the Guide and the Bone Digger, is a biography of a relative who worked as a paleontologist in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. My thoroughness and attention to detail were demonstrated by the meticulous research required for these two works.
     I continued to combine my interests in genealogy, and history in general, in several other books relating to family histories. I have also helped others produce books of their own families by providing insight and skills in editing their works.
     In 2019, I wrote my first novel ... a historical novel, of course. It is the story of a young man coming of age in the Great American West in the 1890s. Hill of the Bear tells the story of Clay Beckley, a fourteen-year-old who leaves his home in Indiana to join an expedition into the San Francisco Peaks of Arizona. Clay grows through battles with the elements, nature, disease, and man himself.
     My next historical novel published in November 2020, The Blacksmith, tells the story of Carl, a young German immigrant who comes of age in the early years of the 20th century. He develops his talents as a blacksmtih while dealing with alcoholism. Looming over his weakness for drink is the German Duquense Spy Ring specifically targeting Carl to obtain plans for a secret project under development for the impending war. Unfortunately, Carl becomes embroiled in a situation which makes him appear to be a Nazi spy. In the events that follow, Carl is placed in grave danger while his past comes flashing back to him.