On April 13, Front Street Books in Alpine, TX hosted an evening of book talks and signings featuring two local authors who recently released books on the Big Bend Region.
Donna Gerstle Smith, author of Frontier Medicine at Fort Davis and Other Army Posts: True Stories of Unglamorous Maladies, and Thomas C. Alex, author of Dead Still Speak: Terlingua Cemetery Inventory: a Key of Information, Maps, and Photography by Thomas C. Alex, discussed their latest works with attendees.
During her talk, Smith shared intriguing highlights from her book, which uncovers fascinating medical stories from the 19th century. From a headless burial to cocaine toothache drops, Smith’s research reveals true stories that are as unbelievable as the West’s most outlandish tales. She also shared insights into the use of unorthodox medical treatments, including the dispensing of whiskey for tuberculosis, mercury for venereal disease, and arsenic for indigestion.
Alex, a former Big Bend National Park archaeologist, discussed his work mapping and cataloging the Terlingua Cemetery for his latest book. The Dead Still Speak: a Terlingua Cemetery Inventory tells the stories of long-lost Terlinguans through a comprehensive inventory of the cemetery’s gravesites.
Front Street Books’ book talk and signing event was a unique opportunity for locals and visitors alike to learn more about the history and culture of the Big Bend Region from two knowledgeable authors.
Front Street Books
106 E. Holland Ave, Alpine, TX 79830
(432) 837-3360
www.frontstreetbooks.com
Big Bend Times 