Local author Sandie Gerken publishes ‘Storied Sussex’

Dagsboro author Sandie Gerken announced the publication of her new book, “Storied Sussex.” The book comprises historical events and stories that have shaped Sussex County. It is available in soft cover for $19.99.

Written originally as history articles for local newspaper High Tide News, these varied narratives of Sussex County came to be because local history matters to Gerken. Area natives and newcomers alike will enjoy reading and learning about events, places, traditions, industries, people and pastimes that chronicle Sussex County’s past. 

As a Dagsboro native, Gerken learned the local lore from her parents while riding the back roads in search of ancestors’ graves. As a result, she has had a lifelong love of history and a passion for genealogy. Now retired, she devotes her time to genealogy research, painting watercolors, and soccer for kids with special needs. As part of fundraising for the Clayton Theatre’s conversion to digital projection in 2013, she wrote the book “Memories of the Clayton Theatre.” She gives tours of historic Prince George’s Chapel by appointment, and speaks to local groups about area history.

She began exploring her writing skills for High Tide News over four years ago. Gerken said her genealogy skills have given her a fresh angle for her meticulous research. Searching records for a distinctive human aspect or flavor is what she calls her secret sauce. Included are chapters about lost traditions or industries such as button-making, wreath-making, scrapple-making and basketmaking. Illustrious Sussex County characters appear as well.

Gerken thinks it is important to learn about the past, as busy as people are today with the technological world. She said, “I hope readers will be inspired to search just a bit further to learn more about these Sussex stories or to become excited to research their own storied pasts.”

“Storied Sussex” is offered through publisher Judy Layman of Layman Enterprises, formerly High Tide News.

To order by mail for $19.99 plus $8.95 for shipping and handling, go to www.StoriedSussex.com. The book will also be available at local bookstores and various other locations in Sussex County. To purchase the book directly from the author, contact Sandie Gerken at 302-732-6835 or gerkensandie@hotmail.com.