In presenting The Saint Marys Story, it has been the aim of the author to portray life, times, thinking, problems and plans of those who came to a wilderness and created the city as we know it today. It was felt essential to keep this work limited to the 150 year period, and at the same time to stay closely within the descriptions set down by writers of another day.

The history of Indian tribes and military expeditions are well recorded in many books. They had a certain effect on Saint Marys, but this work is limited to the people who made the community. Likewise, old courthouse recordings are not requoted here as they are still available in official files. They record facts, not feelings. This historical narrative seeks to emphasize the spirit rather than the letter of history. The goal is readability, interest and instruction.

The strength of a community lies in its people -- their visions, their actions, their achievements and the disappointments they suffered. Without doubt, there are scores of items, events and people who could have (and should have) been included. The limitations of space and time are with us all. The author can only beg forgiveness and tolerance.

It is appropriate at this time to extend appreciation to many sources. The writings of John J. Hauss as printed in The Evening Leader have been of great help. Henry Howe's Historical Coilections of Ohio,the histories written by Murray and Simpkins, old county atlases and county records as well as Ohio State archieves have been researched. Much valuable material was obtained from a History of the Maumee Valley written in 1872 by H. S. Knapp. The style of writing is attributed to Prof. Walter Havighurst, an early tutor of the author at Miami University, who has put so much history into a beautiful narrative form.

A special great big thank you is due Mrs. Don Cook (Doris Krogman) who translated the scribbling to typewritten form, corrected spelling and punctuation and added critical comments.

To The Leader Printing co. and Hunter Printing and Supply co. whose fine cooperation is responsible for the final product, the Sesquicentennial Committee is deeply grateful.

Finally, the Sesquicentennial Committee would like to extend commendations and congratulations to Miss Kathryn C. Geiger, Editor of The Evening Leaderand a member of this committee. Fifty years ago, Casey or K. C. was the cub reporter for this newspaper. She "minded the store" during the Great Centennial of 1923 while the rest of the office force were taking parts in that celebration. it is almost unbelievable that for a full one third of our existence that this remarkable person has recorded the births, marriages, deaths and "goings on" of Saint Marys. Her keen memory for details is matched by the wisdom of her editorials. She has guided her community with a firm and benevolent hand. Saint Marys owes her a great debt of gratitude.

Now it is time for other people of vision and action to lead our city on to its Bicentennial in 2023!