Originally settled by Irish, German, and English pioneers, the Barrington area has a long history of industrious and courageous citizens. In the early 1800s, these settlers laid the foundation for the Barrington of today: a colorful community beloved by residents and visitors. In a tribute to this town's heritage, Voices of Barrington profiles the people who have made-and who continue to make-Barrington a place rich with character and small-town charm. In this collection, the men and women who recount stories of times past and present offer a behind-the-scenes look at how they overcame obstacles and helped to shape their community. Readers discover that the barber down the street also struggled through the Great Depression, and that the brew-pub owner moved entire buildings in order to establish his business. Historic photographs from the Barrington Fire Department, library, daily newspaper, and the contributors' own family collections highlight the stories. The result is an intimate portrait of a typical-and extraordinary-American town.
Author and historian Diane P. Kostick teaches middle school in Barrington where she is also a member of the Chicago Historical Society, Barrington Area Arts Council, and the Writers Workshop. Her poems, articles, stories, and books have been widely published.