
Images of America: Finneytown
A pictorial journey through the moments and places that made us Wildcats.
For the first time, Finneytown’s remarkable story is in print.
Written by longtime residents Rick Kennedy and Mark Evans, this book is packed with rare photos, community stories, and local pride.
Every Book Builds the Future
Our goal is simple but powerful: To modernize Finneytown’s Performing Arts Center and Competition Gym—creating spaces that inspire creativity, ignite school spirit, and empower the next generation of Wildcats.
How to Buy
Buy Direct (Best Way)
Order through FinneytownAlumni.org for the greatest impact. A much higher percentage goes to the Legacy Projects.
Live local? Choose Local Pickup at checkout to save on shipping—pick up your book from Brent.
Amazon & Retail
The book will also be available soon through Amazon and other online retailers.
Just a heads-up: less of the sale returns to Finneytown when purchased commercially.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Images of America: Finneytown is a richly illustrated journey through the unique evolution of Finneytown—from its early settlement in 1800 to its vibrant community life through the 20th century. Written by longtime residents Rick Kennedy and Mark Evans, and featuring a foreword by GE’s Jeff Immelt, the book includes:
A Deep Dive into Finneytown's Roots
The story of Revolutionary War veteran Ebenezer Finney and the founding of the community
Life as a frontier outpost and unincorporated township
Forgotten tales of early settlers, farms, schools, and civic life
Neighborhood & Architectural Evolution
Post-WWII suburban boom and the creation of iconic subdivisions like Brentwood, Wintondale, and Greenfield Village
Profiles of Finneytown’s stunning mid-century modern homes and the architects behind them, including Rudy Hermes, Karl Merkel, and Benjamin Dombar
The story behind Pringle Drive and the creation of Pringles® by P&G
School & Student Life
The rise of Finneytown Local Schools, the building of Finneytown High School, and the design legacy of Woodie Garber
The powerful impact of educators like Telford Whitaker, Mac McNulty, and William Swartzel
Youth athletics, music programs, and the birth of a soccer dynasty
Churches, Civic Groups & Community Builders
Founding of churches like St. Vivian, Northminster, and Faith Lutheran
The rise of the Northern Hills Volunteer Fire Department
Grassroots efforts that defined Finneytown’s independence and spirit
The Natural and Cultural Landscape
Warder Nursery’s contribution to Cincinnati parks and its rebirth as a nature preserve
Charley Harper’s artistic legacy, created right from his modernist home in Finneytown woods
The magic of Tiny Town, Clearview Stables, and Brentwood Bowl
Stories of Notables and Everyday Heroes
Profiles of residents like Rod Serling (The Twilight Zone), Olympic champions Amanda Borden and Joe Hudepohl, TV anchor Al Schottelkotte, and Reds legend Gordy Coleman
The lives of veterans, entrepreneurs, artists, teachers, musicians, and unsung heroes who shaped the community
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For the greatest benefit to Finneytown, buy directly from the Finneytown Alumni Network.
We receive a significantly larger portion of the proceeds.
Live locally? Select Local Pickup and grab your book from Brent to save on shipping.
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The Legacy Projects focus on renovating two of Finneytown’s most meaningful and iconic student spaces:
Performing Arts Center (PAC) – new seating, improved acoustics, ADA access, stage rigging, lighting upgrades, and lobby redesign.
Competition Gym – refinished floors, new bleachers, fresh branding, lighting and electrical upgrades, and an updated entrance.
State funding doesn't cover these spaces—so we're stepping in to ensure future students have the same chance to shine.
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There are lots of ways to support the Legacy Projects and help shape Finneytown’s future:
Make a donation directly to the campaign
Become a Member of the Finneytown Alumni Network to stay connected, support scholarships, and strengthen our community year-round
Attend Alumni Weekend in September 2025 for the public launch of the campaign
Spread the word—share your Finneytown story and encourage others to join the movement
