A new book that chronicles the growth of Des Plaines will be officially released on Nov. 26. Images of America: Des Plaines, by David Whittingham in cooperation with the Des Plaines History Center and the Des Plaines Public Library, features approximately 200 historic photographs.

The book tells the story of a community, called Rand, that began in the 1830’s, when settlers built farms along the Des Plaines River, and follows the expansion of Des Plaines into the modern-day suburb it has become, according to a press release by Arcadia Publishing.

A reception to celebrate the book release will take place at the Des Plaines Public Library, 1501 Ellinwood St., on Dec. 14. Whittingham will give a presentation about the book, and will be available to sign copies, according to the library’s website.

Refreshments will be served at 5:30 p.m., followed by presentations at 7 p.m., and you can register to attend on the library’s website.

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Related: Des Plaines Yesterday and Today column on Patch.