Finding True North
A History of One Small Corner of the Adirondacks
Fran Yardley
The Adirondack Artists Guild will host a book launch party from 5-7 pm on Friday, July 13, for Fran Yardley’s book, Finding True North: A History of One Small Corner of the Adirondacks, published by Excelsior Editions, an imprint of State University of New York Press. At 5:30, Fran will give a short talk and read from the book, which will be available for purchase and signing by the author that evening.
In 1968 Fran and Jay Yardley, a young couple with pioneering spirit, moved to a remote corner of the Adirondacks to revive the long-abandoned but historic Bartlett Carry Club, with its one thousand acres and thirty-seven buildings. The Saranac Lake–area property had been in Jay’s family for generations, and his dream was to restore this summer resort to support himself and, eventually, a growing family. Fran chronicles their journey and, along the way, unearths the history of those who came before, from the 1800s to the present. Offering an evocative glimpse into the past, Finding True North traces the challenges and transformations of one of the world’s most beautiful, least-celebrated places and the people who were tirelessly devoted to it.
Fran Yardley is a writer, actor, and nationally known storyteller and workshop leader. With her late husband, she renovated and managed the Bartlett Carry Club for sixteen years. In 1999 she cofounded Creative Healing Connections, a nonprofit organization offering retreats for women veterans and women with cancer and chronic illness. Originally from Buffalo, she is rooted into the shores of Middle Saranac Lake, where she lives with her actor/photographer husband, Burdette Parks, and her dog, Merlin.
The reception for Finding True North is open to the public, and refreshments will be served.
The Adirondack Artists Guild is a cooperative retail art gallery representing a diverse group of artists residing and working in the Tri-Lakes region of the Adirondack Park. The gallery is located at 52 Main St, Saranac Lake, 518 891-2615. Gallery hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 until 5, with extended hours until 7 on Thursdays, and 11-3 on Sundays. The Guild is on Facebook and on the web at www.adirondackartistsguild.com.