The beloved Baca County History Book, first published in 1983, is about to make a long-awaited return — alongside an all-new companion volume capturing more recent generations of our county’s story.

Thanks to the generosity of Mike Peters, son of the late Ron and Thelda Peters — the original publishers — full reproduction rights to the Baca County History Book were granted earlier this year. The effort to reprint the cherished collection of family histories, pioneer stories, and photographs is now underway, preserving a resource many believed would be lost to time.

Tattered, well-loved copies of the original book have become scarce, with some changing hands online for hundreds of dollars. Now, a new generation will have the opportunity to own a piece of Baca County’s rich history.

Honoring the Original Design

The reprinted edition stays true to the iconic design crafted by Poe Ballard more than four decades ago. Ballard’s embossed leatherette cover, with its bold Baca County lettering and symbolic illustrations of prairie life, agriculture, and industry, remains a lasting tribute to the roots of this community.

“We wanted to respect every detail of the original book’s look and feel, and create a reasonable facsimile of the the original cover” said Kent Brooks, who working alongside local historian Steve Doner. “Poe Ballard’s cover design is instantly recognizable to anyone from Baca County. It represents heritage, resilience, and local pride.”

“We’re on our way, and it feels good,” Doner said, adding that the community owes a lasting debt of gratitude to those who poured their time and energy into the original project. “Their work preserved our history, and now we have the chance to ensure it continues to be shared with future generations.”

The project also serves as a reminder of the county’s rich and colorful past. Many residents may recall the Baca County History Book being used in local schools, where students explored tales of vanished towns like Boston, Butte City, and Carrizo Springs, and learned how early settlers built the communities that still dot the landscape today.

The next steps include finishing the scanning process, verifying the text, and preparing for print. Community members will be invited to contribute additional family histories and photographs to expand and update the book. 

A New Volume for New Stories

In addition to the reprint, a brand-new Baca County History Volume II is in production. Styled to complement the first book, Volume II features a matching textured cover, the same classic brown finish, and familiar embossing — with one noticeable update: the addition of Volume II beneath the county name, signaling a new chapter in the ongoing story of the region.

The updated cover also features refreshed imagery while honoring Ballard’s vision. Notably, a more modern tractor design — symbolizing the evolution of farming on the High Plains — now appears alongside scenes of cattle, wheat, and energy. Comments on the new design are encouraged.

Contributions for the New Edition are Encouraged

Volume II will spotlight newly recorded history, families, events, and milestones that have shaped Baca County in the decades since the first book was published. Residents past and present are encouraged to submit family histories, photographs, and stories to be included.

“We’re proud to bring these books back to life,” added Doner. “Baca County’s history didn’t end in 1983 — it’s still being written every day.”

More information on submitting stories for Volume II and ordering copies of both books will be shared in the Plainsman Herald in the weeks ahead.

Below is another version we were playing with. If you like it best, let us know.