On October 3, 2026, I enjoyed one of the best book talk experiences of life as an author with the wonderful people at the Historical Society of Massapequa.
This all began more than a year ago. For Volume 1 of West Point at Gettysburg, I chronicled the life of DeLancey Floyd-Jones. As I researched and learned about Floyd-Jones, I discovered that he founded a free public library in his hometown of Massapequa. What fascinated me even more was the fact that the library was still there.
As part of my research, I reached out to the library for information and entered in an engaging conversation with a trustee of the Historical Society, Mrs. Valerie Kirchmann. She even sent me, through the mail, a packet of facts and photos of DeLancey Floyd-Jones. I was impressed with the kindness and support I received from Mrs. Kirchmann.
Massapequa is not necessarily in my backyard, but I determined that one day I needed to get there to visit the DeLancey Floyd-Jones Library.
Once West Point at Gettysburg (Vol. 1) was published, I was invited to Massapequa to visit the library, the Historical Society’s grounds, and to give a book talk. I happily and enthusiastically accepted and the date was sent.
On October 3, my wife Laurie and I arrived about two hours ahead of the book talk’s scheduled time. (One always wanted to leave plenty of time when traveling from New Jersey across New York City – and two bridges – to Long Island.)
We walked up the DeLancey Floyd-Jones Library, and were greeted with a huge smile from Mrs. Kirchmann. “Please sit down, make yourselves at home.” We explored the library and talked for a little while before we were taken on a tour of the Floyd-Jones burial grounds and other historical sites on their property.
All of this was so fascinating.
I am always welcomed to my book talks, but never have I felt so welcomed and at home.
In addition to being an officer in the Civil War, DeLancey Floyd-Jones was a world traveler and an author writing about his vast and great experiences in the Far East in the 1870s. I was struck, overwhelmed, and speechless when Mrs. Kirchmann presented me, as a gift, with an original 1887 copy of Jones’ book Letters from the Far East. I treasure this book and have already explained to my family how special it is.
My book talk went well. The members of the Historical Society and the audience in attendance was bright, cheerful, happy, knowledgeable, and fun to interact and talk with. I appreciated the perspectives they shared as we talked about so many aspects of the Civil War, the Battle of Gettysburg, Delancey Floyd-Jones, and so much more.
After the talk, the conversations continued. We even celebrated DeLancey Floyd-Jones’ 200th birthday with a birthday cake. I was given the honor of blowing out the candles. It was great way to cap off a very special visit.
Going to the DeLancey Floyd-Jones Library was greater than I could have ever expected.
I was welcomed as a friend and left there feeling that I am now part of a special community and family.
What could be better?
