Mishawaka's history overflows with forgotten stories of people and events that shaped the city and even influenced the nation. The city celebrated one of its most exciting days on July 5, 1909, when thousands watched a massive parade and the dedication of Hotel Mishawaka. A timeless but overlooked photograph captured the patriotism of brave volunteers as they left to fight in World War I on May 10, 1917. The 1926-27 Mishawaka High basketball team made the school's only appearance in the state finals. During the Vietnam War, Talos missiles manufactured in town struck North Vietnam and avenged a captured local pilot. Author Peter J. De Kever brings to life these and other stories from the Mishawaka of yesteryear.

In Past to Present: More Essays on the History of Mishawaka, Peter J. De Kever shares stories from Mishawaka's compelling and inspiring past. As "a call to remember and honor the people and accomplishments" of the Princess City's history, De Kever has written nine essays that vividly evoke Mishawaka's role in historically significant national events, as well as the remarkable achievements of area high school students. Stories of bravery, sacrifice, and suffering come together here with others that show Mishawakans' inventiveness, dedication, and pursuit of excellence. Modern society often promotes forgetfulness and irreverence for the past, but De Kever's book encourages a "history-oriented vision" of how people and events from Mishawaka's past live on today. These stories form part of the inheritance shared by all who call Mishawaka home. Included in Past to Present are the fascinating stories of: Captain James Houghton leading his men in a fatal charge at the Battle of Shiloh