A new book by prolific local historical author Alan Clark delves into the subject that dates back to the 1880s.

Cordial-makers of the Shoalhaven and their bottles is set to be published next month (October) by the Shoalhaven Historical Society.

But they need help.

The society plans to use a stunning photograph on the front cover of a young man from Nowra Cordials moving a stack of boxes.

But they don't know who he is.

"It's just such a great photo, we couldn't not use it," Mr Clark said.

"But we don't know who he is. We'd love to be able to identify him."

Mr Clark said it is believed the photo was taken in the 1960s, as the Nowra Cordial Factory at the corner of Kinghorne and Douglas Streets was destroyed by fire in September 1968.

He said the cover features the colour orange, as orange drink was perhaps the most popular made locally in the latter years of the industry.

While the book is being finalised the society would still love to hear from anyone who has photos of the local factories.

"The book will go to the printer in October, but we would still love to get photos of the local factories," Mr Clark said. It is hoped the book will be released for Christmas.

The Shoalhaven cordial history goes back to the 1880s when the Pollock family established their first factory in the area.

Cordial then was much different to what we class as cordial today - a flavour added to usually a water-based drink. Back then it was aerated water (carbonated water), a drink similar to today's soft drinks.

"The Pollocks were major players in the local industry until 1910, when they sold the business to Reginald Thomas," Mr Clark said.

"Another major industry player was James Kelly, which later went on to be Kelly and Sons."

Kelly was the final owner of Nowra Cordials which produced various drinks over a span of 80 years.

Many residents will remember September 21, 1968 when the Nowra Cordial Factory was destroyed by fire.

"It was a Saturday morning and hundreds of locals gathered to watch the blaze being fought by the local brigade, assisted by the Illaroo Road Bush Fire Brigade, and additional firefighters from HMAS Albatross," Mr Clark said.

If anyone can identify the young man in the Nowra Cordials photo or has any other photos featuring the industry please contact Robyn Florance on 0410 387631.