Village Talk : A County Merchant's Memoir and Folk History

Written about eighty years ago, this never-before published gem of historical writing sat undiscovered for years, tucked away in the files of the Holland, Michigan Museum Archives.

The author is Ray Nies. Born and raised in Saugatuck, Michigan, Nies lived most of his life in the city of Holland, where he was the owner of a hardware store on 8th Street.

Readers will discover that Nies was a talented writer, with a keen eye, and a comedic voice.

His stories of Holland, Michigan and environs showcase the curious characters and folk legends of the area.

This is no typical history of names and dates and prominent people.

It is rather an insider's view that highlights the common and yet unusual culture of a people and place.