Book Review: Moscow: Living and Learning on the Palouse

By Julie Monroe
Reviewed by Bill London
from the July 2003 Newsletter

Moscow is a town with a fascinating story to tell. And now, that story has been told.

Moscow author Julie Monroe (yes, she is also one of the editors of our Co-op newsletter) has completed a book about her hometown, titled “Moscow: Living and Learning on the Palouse” and published by Arcadia Publishing of South Carolina.

Monroe begins her history with the first inhabitants, the Nez Perce and other tribal peoples who visited the area in annual pilgrimages searching for food. She then tells of waves of immigrants, civic boosters, the university, the world wars—and how they all impacted Moscow, shaping its destiny. Then in the last chapter, Monroe weaves in the more recent institutions that have helped define Moscow’s uniqueness: community groups like the Friendly Neighbors senior citizen network, celebrations like the Moscow Renaissance Fair, and community businesses like the Moscow Food Co-op.

Monroe’s understanding of her community and pride in its accomplishments shines through the pages. She chose well in the variety of historical photos scattered liberally throughout the pages, and captured the progressive and fun nature of the community. And along the way, she answered a number of questions about the town’s history, including the following:

1. Why was Latah County (with Moscow as the county seat) the only county ever established by an act of the U.S. Congress?
2. What lobbying effort was needed to bring the University of Idaho to Moscow?
3. How, during the Depression years, did Moscow generate enough mail to be given the status of a first-class post office?
4. What was so different about Moscow’s first subdivision, University Heights?
5. What Moscow event was first organized as a wholesome alternative to the Blue Mountain Rock Festivals held at the university during the early 1970s?

For the answers, check out Julie Monroe’s book about Moscow, or ask her. She will be autographing copies of the book at BookPeople on Saturday, July 19, from 10 a.m. until noon.

Bill London edits the Moscow Food Co-op newsletter, and as of this issue, has survived (hopefully) the wedding of his daughter.

© Copyright on articles, recipes and images are jointly held by the Moscow Food Co-op and the respective contributors, except were otherwise noted.

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