Author of Jefferson City history book to have public signing

<p>Kaden Quinn/For the News Tribune</p><p>Michelle Brooks visits the Missouri State Archives as she prepares for her book publication. Brooks released her new book, “Interesting Women of the Capitol City,” on Monday, with proceeds, in part, benefiting the Zonta Club of Jefferson City.</p>

Kaden Quinn/For the News Tribune

Michelle Brooks visits the Missouri State Archives as she prepares for her book publication. Brooks released her new book, “Interesting Women of the Capitol City,” on Monday, with proceeds, in part, benefiting the Zonta Club of Jefferson City.

A special early release and author signing for a new book on Jefferson City history will take place next Sunday.

"Hidden History of Jefferson City" by Michelle Brooks will be released July 19.

A special early release and author signing is scheduled from noon-3 p.m. July 18 at Samuel's Tuxedos and Gifts, 236 E. High St. in Jefferson City.

The book is published by History Press, a division of Arcadia.

Brooks is a former reporter for the Jefferson City News Tribune and editor of the California Democrat. Many of her articles detailing local history focused on historic buildings and homes.

In this book, she talks about Burr McCarty, who turned his home and stagecoach stop into a political gathering place. Also featured are ferryman Jefferson T. Rogers, who was elected mayor 10 times, and Calvin Gunn who established Jefferson City's first newspaper and was the state's first printer.

"This is the first written history of Jefferson City in many years, as most have been postcard and photography histories," Samuel's owner Sam Bushman said. "We are looking forward to this event."