The Warren Public Library is pleased to announce that local author John L. Young will discuss his latest book "From Pithole to Paradise: How the Wickedest Man in the World Found God" at 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 29, in the Slater Room. The book is the life story of Oil Boom era raconteur Ben Hogan.
"It's altogether fitting that we introduce the book here in Warren County because it was here on February 18, 1867, on Babylon Hill near Tidioute that Ben had one of his most harrowing encounters when a gang of toughs from Petroleum Center sought to assassinate him and burn down his brothel," Young said.
"Despite the fact that Ben was a bare-knuckle boxer and fought Tim Allen for the world championship, he is perhaps best known in our area for his partnership in Pithole and Babylon with oilfield beauty French Kate, and later for his Floating Palace, a brothel that he docked at Parkers Landing on the Allegheny River," Young added.
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Author John Young
Much has been written about Hogan, but this book is the first to cover his entire life and career, from his immigrant beginnings as a street tough in New York City to his spiritual conversion and his association with famed 18th century evangelist Dwight Moody.
Young is also the author of two other Warren County history books, "Murder in the Courtroom" and "Murder at the Airport Inn." His other books include "Hiking the Poconos," "Hiking Pennsylvania" and "Unemployed No More."
Preregistrations by calling 723-4650 are appreciated by not required. Refreshments will be served at this program that will be free and open to the public.