First edition of 1885 Pittenger book donated to historical society

FALLBROOK – "It was a serendipitous moment," said Frank Hollingshead, recalling the moment he found a weathered first edition of "Capturing a Locomotive: A History of Secret Service in the Late War," by Rev. William Pittenger, in a used bookstore in Los Angeles. He has since donated the treasure – dating back to 1885 – to the Fallbrook Historical Society.

"It was about a year ago and I had just given a talk for the Sons of the American Revolution at a Los Angeles Elks Lodge," he recalled. "I went into a used book store nearby and, as usual, I scanned the shelves for old books. I saw the name 'Pittenger," and I couldn't believe it. I bought it for four dollars."

Hollingshead, a former Marine, is a member of the Sgt. William Pittenger Camp 21 of the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War, so he is well aware of the Civil War hero and early recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor. Hollingshead also serves as a docent for the Marine Corp Recruit Depot San Diego Command Museum.

"I live in Poway but several of our Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War members reside in the Fallbrook area," he said. "Last November, we held a Civil War Remembrance Ceremony at the Pittenger House and that's when I found out about the historical society."

Donation of the book to the historical society was "an obvious choice," said Hollingshead. "I know it is in the right hands and in the right place."

The book will soon be safely and appropriately displayed in the Pittenger House, which is located on the grounds of the historical society at 1730 Hill Ave. The museum is open for tours every Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. unless otherwise noted.

Submitted by the Fallbrook Historical Society.