Join the Oswego County Historical Society for a book launch and signing event on Saturday, March 16. Meet Oswego native Lee Ellen Hickey, author of “Girl in the Glass Coffin: The Tonkin Affairs,” at 1 p.m. in the community room of the Oswego Public Library, 120 E. Second St.

“Girl in the Glass Coffin: The Tonkin Affairs” is a historical fiction novel set in the Gilded Age based on the true story of young Virginia Tonkin, known by local legend as “the girl in the glass coffin.” Virginia’s dead body was kept in her family’s home for 15 months following her tragic and untimely death, sparking a curious and controversial tale. The family continued to endure dark events and emotional torrent for years following Virginia’s death, including threats for ransom against their youngest child, Rosamond. The reckless behavior of their rich bachelor and playboy son, Harold, also threatened to tarnish the family name. Following the shocking circumstances of the Tonkin family, the novel is full of tragedy, intrigue, romance, betrayal, mystery, scandal and even murder.

During the event, the author will discuss “Girl in the Glass Coffin: The Tonkin Affairs” and detail the extensive research she did on the Tonkin family. Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signature.

Lee Ellen Hickey was born and raised in Oswego County, where she still lives with her husband and two of their five children. She loves spending time with her family, being a grandma to her grandsons and traveling. She is the block leader for the Oswego Renaissance Association and a member of the Oswego County Historical Society, Elim Grace and the board of directors for Oswego County Opportunities.

For more information, find the event on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/events/1074920223726536.

TRAVEL BACK IN TIME WITH NOVEL BASED ON OSWEGO LEGEND- Join the Oswego County Historical Society on Saturday, March 16 at 1 p.m. for the launch of “Girl in the Glass Coffin: The Tonkin Affairs” by Oswego resident Lee Ellen Hickey (pictured).  The historical fiction novel is based on the story of Virginia Tonkin, known by local legend as “the girl in the glass coffin,” whose body was kept at her home for more than a year following her death. The event takes place at the Oswego Public Library, 120 E. Second St.