Wendy Lewellen has authored the book, “Good Soles: Chautauqua Rails to Trails Namesakes and Trailblazers.” Submitted photo

Chautauqua Rails to Trails has announced the publication of Wendy Lewellen’s book, “Good Soles: Chautauqua Rails to Trails Namesakes and Trailblazers.”

Lewellen will be participating in a book signing at Chautauqua Rails to Trails’ Dec. 4 Holiday Happy Hour at Big Inlet Brewing, 6169 Elm Flat Road, Mayville.

She will be participating in other book signing events that coincide with its countywide distribution.

A long-time devotee of the organization, Lewellen serves as secretary to CR2T and was moved to write a book when she undertook the task of refurbishing, replacing and repainting some of the signs which bear the trail segments’ namesakes.

In the preface of the book, she writes, “My aim is for you to enjoy and be enriched by these profiles of the people for whom our various trails are named or credited in our trail signage. The next time you enter one of our trails and see the sign, if you wish, well now you know.”

The publication highlights the lives of each of these folks and sheds insights into who they are and how they relate to Chautauqua County trail history. It also gives credit to the early impassioned trailblazers who worked so hard throughout the early 1990s and beyond. A history of the organization is included.

Lewellen acknowledges many trail friends and history buffs who helped with the creation stage of the book. She is offering the books as a thank-you for donations to her beloved, all-volunteer Chautauqua Rails to Trails.

Starting at 5:30 p.m., the Holiday Happy Hour event will include festivities in the Big Inlet taproom, including music by Chautauqua Rails to Trails President Bill Ward, joined by Bob Henry, William Downe, Marcie Bird, and Derek Houser. Food, cookies, basket auction, and various treats will be available. There is no charge for the event.

Two other book signings events are planned – one at the annual Prospect Station trainwreck memorial ceremony on Dec. 24 at 2 p.m., and another early in the new year at the Fenton Historical Center, with a date to be announced.

The book will be on sale at various locations throughout the county.

For complete information on sales and events, visit the Chautauqua Rails to Trails Facebook page, website at chaurtt.org or call 716-753-2800.