Local Historian Writes Book on Purchase Area

A local author who has written a book about the history of the Jackson Purchase will be in Paducah Saturday for a book signing.

Richard Dwayne Parker, author of The Wild World of the Jackson Purchase, says he has always been interested in the history of the region. His book delves into many different areas of local history, an area often overlooked by many historians. 

The book features more than 100 stories about the history of the Purchase area, and also features photographs and illustrations done by Parker himself.

Parker was born in Murray and raised in Paris, TN. He studied history at Murray State University, and became a social studies teacher. He says his local family roots have helped drive his interest in the rich history of the area. 

"I kind of realized that noone really knew much about history past Bowling Green. I really got interested in it, and this is how the book came about." Parker said.

Parker will hold a book signing at the Market House Museum Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Copies of his book will be available for purchase.