Swiss Pioneer Preservation Associates (SPPA) will hold a book release, signing and discussion on Tuesday, May 2, at 7 p.m. at Martindale Fellowship Center, 352 Martindale Road, Martindale. The new book "The Flow of the Big Spring" by Romaine Stauffer of Bernville will be released.

The book chronicles the various owners and operators of the Big Spring Farm in New Holland, also known as the "Spring Ike" Martin Farm, beginning with the Native Americans and continuing through the generations of Welsh, Amish and Mennonite people until the current owner, SPPA. The book also includes broader world events, national events, Mennonite church history and local incidents. It is illustrated and includes sidebars and footnotes.

Topics discussed in the book include Earl Union School, Rubinson's Department Store, Ed Nolt's balers and V-plow, the toll house on Route 322, Mike Nolt's Electric Plant, Welsh Mountain encounters, "Spring Ike" Martin, bachelor Paul Martin's legacy, Green Dragon Farmers Market, New Holland Machine Company, Ephrata Cloister disciplines, Cross Roads School, the Lancaster Stock Yards and Fair's Country Store.

At the book release, attendees will hear talks by those who grew up on the Big Spring Farm. Copies of the book will be available for purchase, and Stauffer will be present to sign books.

For more information, call Raymond G. Zimmerman at 717-354-7139.