Press Release: Pineridge Press Launches Hurricane Helene History Project, Invites Personal Accounts

McRAE–HELENA, Ga. — Pineridge Press announces the launch of a historical research and book project examining Hurricane Helene and its consequences for Georgia and the American South. Led by historian and author Hart Mizell, the project will document the period before, during, and after the hurricane, connecting individual experiences with its broader effects on households, public services, agriculture, businesses, and community institutions. The history will examine selected regions throughout the South, from Florida to Virginia, using various communities as case studies of the storm’s impact and the course of recovery along its path.

The planned history will address both the immediate emergency and the longer process of restoring services, repairing homes, returning to work, and rebuilding daily life. Pineridge Press invites personal accounts from residents, caregivers, emergency responders, utility crews, farmers, business owners, healthcare workers, educators, public officials, volunteers, and others affected by the hurricane or involved in its aftermath. Contributions may describe preparations, experiences during the storm, relief efforts, displacement, economic disruption, and continuing recovery needs. Accounts of assistance and successful recovery are welcome alongside experiences of loss, delay, and hardship.

These contributions will help preserve a detailed historical record and explain how the storm and recovery differed across communities. Participants may also identify photographs, correspondence, records, or other materials that could help document their experiences.

To contribute, complete the Hurricane Helene Experience Survey.