For Kenneth Hinnenkamp, his home parish, St. Mary’s, and his hometown of Melrose hold a special place in his heart and serve as inspiration for his hobby.
Since the 1970s, he has created countless drawings, many focused on the history of Melrose and surrounding communities.
“My grandparents used to tell me, ‘keep history in front of you, that’s what’s going to make your future,’” Hinnenkamp shared. “Now, I want to celebrate the history of our small community to keep younger generations interested in our hometown.”
Hinnenkamp worked with the Melrose Area Arts Council to have two coloring books printed from his drawings and poems, and they are now for sale at the Melrose farmers’ market and local art shows.
One book, “Melrose Encouraging Words,” features images and stories of historical community leaders, sports figures and business owners alongside images of iconic buildings in the community, including the former St. Boniface and St. Patrick’s churches and current St. Mary’s Church.
“’Encouraging Words’ is a positive look at the lives of people who settled here to make a positive future for all people,” he said.
The second book, “Welcome to the Neighboring Communities,” features many more churches, welcome signs and identifying elements of the communities around Melrose.
Both books also include poems, which Hinnenkamp recommends be read “slowly with an open mind and heart.”
As people view and color in the book, Hinnenkamp hopes they will see the hard work and determination that keeps communities “alive, vibrant and working,” and help young people recognize the beauty of settling or staying in their small hometowns.
“To keep our communities working is a job for everyone,” Hinnenkamp said. “We need neighbors helping neighbors to build trust and keep our communities successful.”