New book portrays Black Brook section of Lakeport

LACONIA — A history of the Black Brook neighborhood of Lakeport is being published, in a limited edition, by the Laconia Historical and Museum Society.

Consisting of 168 pages in 8-1/2 x 11 format, soft bound, illustrated with more than 120 photographs, 20 in full color, the book was written by Claire Blanchette Clark, who grew up in the Black Brook section and has done extensive research on this part of Lakeport.

Among other features explored are the Squire Clark ("Hathaway") House, Tekwood, the Shore Diner, Rudzinski icehouses and Blaisdell Avenue — along with the people who lived and worked there. Many of the photos have never appeared in print before.

Some 60 years in the making, this book focuses on the residential, along with the industrial, commercial and tourist-related, character of this section of Union Avenue — with emphasis on the homes and businesses located there from early settlement to around 1950.

Only a limited number of copies of this book can be produced. The historical society plans an initial printing of 50 copies, which will be available starting later this week.

Copies may be ordered by sending $29.95 per copy ($36.95 if book to be mailed) to Laconia Historical and Museum Society, P.O. Box 1126, Laconia, NH 03247. If book is to be picked up locally, provide phone number, e-mail address or other contact information.

E-mail inquiries may be sent to lhmslpl@metrocast.net or phone (603) 527-1278.

Books may also be purchased directly from the Belknap Mill.