In “The Journal of Sedona Schnebly,” author and Northern Arizona University alumna Lisa Schnebly Heidinger tells the story of how Sedona got its name. Sedona Arabella Miller Schnebly followed her husband west, when their small Missouri town condemned his Presbyterian religion. Arriving in Arizona Territory in 1901, they planted orchards and hosted early tourists in what is now named Sedona.
This vivid journal of her life introduces a pioneer family from their genteel upbringings through adventures with rattlesnakes, trappers and colorful guests. With 30 photographs from family collections, this volume of Sedona Schnebly’s experiences and ruminations illustrates a fiercely private woman’s life that is by turns amusing, heartbreaking and fascinating.
Great-granddaughter of Sedona Schnebly, Lisa Schnebly Heidinger wrote nine books about various aspects of Arizona before this tour de force journal, which is a culmination of decades conducting interviews and exploring archives. Voted OneBookAZ author for her Arizona Centennial book, she shares Sedona and T.C. Schnebly’s deep love of Arizona and of travel. A former television and newspaper reporter, then editorial columnist, she loves drinking at historic hotels, doing anything outside and coffee.
The NAU Bookstore will host a book-signing event for Heidinger from 3-5 p.m on Oct. 27. “The Journal of Sedona Schnebly,” and Heidinger’s other books, “Images of America: Sedona” and “Calling Arizona Home” can be purchased at the NAU Bookstore, 1015 S San Francisco St. (Building #35 on campus maps). Parking is available in the garage immediately south of the bookstore. Route 10 of NAIPTA’s Mountain Line Bus Service also stops in front of the Beaver Street entrance of the store.