Author Talk – A Fireman in the Making by Rob Palmer

October 17, 2024 at 5pm – Join local author Rob Palmer in the library as he shares his newest book, A Fireman in the Making: Manhattan 1904.  In this first-person fictional account, Rob Palmer transports the reader back to early 20th century New York City through the eyes of Mickey Farley, an aspiring architect attending college. Mickey instead is drawn to the perilous world of firefighting in a teeming metropolis. In the era of horse-drawn steam fire engines when firefighting was performed with little regard for personal safety, Mickey experiences thrills, dangers, boredom, and intense action as a member of the greatest fire department in the world.

Rob Palmer is a fifty-year fire service volunteer of the Stonington Borough and Pawcatuck Fire Department in his hometown of Stonington. A history enthusiast, his particular interests include the study of firefighting and fire apparatus of all eras. He is a member of the Board of Directors of The Connecticut Firemen’s Historical Society in Manchester, Connecticut; its museum has brought early firefighting to life for him, and he enjoys giving tours there. He is a past president of Historic Stonington and was a teacher in the Stonington Public Schools for 30 years. His book, A Fireman in the Making, is the product of detailed research about Manhattan, the Fire Department of New York, and the compelling profession of firefighting.

This program is free and open to the public. Be a part of the audience in person at the library (20 High Street, Stonington CT) or via live stream on the SFL YouTube Channel.