Bays Mountain Park’s Commemorative Coffee Table Book Coming Soon
If you’ve always wanted to bring a part of Bays Mountain Park home with you, now you can. The Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium: Celebrating 50 Years commemorative book is coming soon.
This 11” x 10 3/4” hardcover book describes the thinking that led to the idea of the park and nature preserve, chronicles the history of its development and gives readers a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the park. Full of stunning photographs, it is a celebration of Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium’s first 50 years that will become a keepsake for generations to come.
This project was coordinated by Mary Steadman, chair of the History Subcommittee for the BMP Celebration Committee. She also serves on the Bays Mountain Park Commission. Her husband’s family was involved in the development of Bays Mountain over the years, and even lived on a farm that is part of the mountain.
“This has been an opportunity for me to continue in the Steadman tradition of supporting and giving back to Bays Mountain, which gave them so much,” Steadman said.
Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium: Celebrating 50 Years collects the work of many photographs—from professionals, amateurs, local residents and visitors. The book also features many historical photos that capture Bays Mountain as it was at various points throughout its history. Jay Huron, a local professional who specializes in wildlife and travel photography, served as photography consultant and contributing photographer.
The book also contains history and stories from the mountain, compiled by author Pam Cox. A Kingsport native, Cox is an award-winning speech writer and journalist who currently serves as the tourism director of Scott County, Virginia. The book was designed by Andy Barnes, and many others contributed time and thoughts as part of the book committee.
“Everyone’s passion for Bays Mountain has really shined during this project,” Steadman said. “It has been truly a pleasure working with such a wonderful group of volunteers and partners.”
Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium: Celebrating 50 Years is sponsored by Eastman Credit Union and created in partnership with Kingsport Times-News. The book is available for pre-order for $30 through September 30, and copies should arrive in November.
BMP’s new children’s book, Unalii’s Unexpected Adventure, is also coming soon and available for $15. You can order both books in a bundle for $39—the perfect holiday gift for any Bays lover. To order your copies, visit baysmountain.com/books.
To learn more about Bays Mountain Park, visit baysmountain.com or call 423-229-9447.