HANFORD — Armed with his trusty digital camera, Steve R. Rogers can often be seen strolling through downtown and other locales taking pictures. Now, Rogers has decided to put his hobby to work and has published his first book, simply titled “Hanford.”
“I’ve always had a deep-rooted passion for this community,” Rogers said. “I also love taking pictures. So this book is sort of a combination of everything I love.”
Rogers’ book is part of Arcadia Publishing’s “Then & Now” series, where vintage images are compared and contrasted with modern-day photographs for a side-by-side look at local history.
“I also like research and studying history, so I had a great time collecting the historic photos that go along with the modern ones that I personally shot,” he said.
A book signing will be held at the LT Sue Tea Room in China Alley on April 7 at noon. The tea room is one of Rogers’ favorite places in Hanford.
“You can find me here almost every day,” he said. “Plus, I found the owners, Arianne Wing and Steve Banister, to be so helpful in finding me historical info for the book. They help out a lot and point me in the right direction whenever I have a question.”
Rogers, 50, is a native of Hanford. His keen interest in local history comes from the many early family photos and home movies his parents created years ago. He used these as a starting point in putting together his collection of historical images of the community he loves.
“My dad had all kinds of photos,” he said. “I guess collecting and documenting history must run in the family.”
Indeed, it does run in the family, because Rogers’ son, Taylor, also helped take pictures for the new book.
“Taylor was the one who took the photo that’s on the front cover,” he said. “He mainly does it to help me and I appreciate him greatly for it. He doesn’t realize how much he inspires and motivates me. This book was a lot of work, and he helped so much.”
Rogers is an active volunteer for the China Alley Historic District and the Main Street Hanford nonprofit organization, both of which focus on the continuing efforts toward downtown revitalization.
He said he hopes the images in the book will spur excitement and pride in Hanford.
“I want to keep the spirit of downtown Hanford alive,” he said.
He also is working to keep the history of Hanford fresh in the community’s minds by submitting his photos to The Sentinel for the new feature “Out and About.”
“Working with The Sentinel has been great,” he said. “I love collaborating with others and sharing ideas. I am finding several ways for my hobby of taking pictures to help champion the spirit of this city.”
Rogers’ book “Hanford” is available at area bookstores, independent retailers, online or through Arcadia Publishing at 888-313-2665 or www.arcadiapublishing.com.
