New Book About the Petaluma River and Tour Go Hand in Hand

As many of my subscribers may know, I recently contributed to The Petaluma River: A Sketch Journal and Brief Historical Overview, published in September 2024. This distinctive volume combines sketches, photographs, historic images, maps, and research to document the rich tapestry of the Petaluma River’s past, present, and future vision.

I had the privilege of collaborating with Santa Rosa architect and artist Alan Butler on this project. My contributions included historical research, content development, editing, fact-checking, connecting Alan with local subject experts, and sourcing historic images. Alan originated the concept for this book with expert guidance from professional book designer and broker Lorna Johnson of Lorna Johnson Print! along with numerous community supporters. He has created a unique addition to an existing collection of Petaluma-centric publications. His intricate sketches, detailed maps, and evident passion for the Petaluma River and surrounding landscape infuse every page with what one reader describes as “an imaginative combination of serious, useful history and visual delights from the real to the artistic.”

Upcoming Events

Book Signing: Haven’t secured your copy yet? Join Alan and me at Copperfield’s Books in Petaluma on Saturday, May 3rd, between 12 PM and 2 PM for a special meet-and-greet and book signing session.

Petaluma River History Paddle Tour: On Sunday, May 25th, experience the book coming to life with an immersive kayak tour down Petaluma’s historic saltwater highway. This unique experience features costumed dockhands and factory workers from Petaluma’s past stationed along the riverbanks, bringing history directly to you as you paddle. This special tour represents a collaboration between two vital local nonprofits: Petalumans of Yesteryear and the Floathouse, and serves as one of many highlights of National Historic Preservation Month. Additional tour dates are available on June 22, July 20, and August 3. For tickets, go to https://www.thefloathousepetaluma.org/events/petaluma-river-history-paddle-may25-2025