The Buck family first set down roots in the San Juans in 1918. And as the saying goes, the rest is history. And quite a history it is to tell.

“The Bucks Stopped Here”, written by Sam R. Buck II, brings to life in prose and in photographs the family’s love of the islands, and its many accomplishments, adventures and struggles over nearly a century of island living.

The story begins in 1918, with Sam’s father, elected as San Juan County attorney two years later and, along with a two-year hiatus to serve in the Washington state legislature, conducted legal affairs for the county for 16 years. It traces the life of the Bucks during those early years, the changes taking place at that time, and the development of Friday Island and Cape San Juan in an era in which San Juan County was in danger of going broke. An autobiographical account of nearly 100 years of island history, the story, as told through the eyes of Sam Buck II, born in 1927, is illustrated by unique historical photos, as well as others of more recent times. Whether it’s playing the role of Daddy Warbucks in the community theatre’s first-ever performance of “Annie”, or as a notable island realtor, Buck offers insight into his own personal story, his affection for the community and its causes, as well as his family’s 85-year history, over four generations, in the San Juans.

Published by Illuminata Publishers, the book, $15.95, is available for purchase at Griffin Bay Bookstore, 155 Spring St.; 378-5511, www.griffinbaybook.com