The scrapbooks start with the late 19th century, I think — too late for you. And I’ll take you up on that offer — either here or there!

Sandy

Thanks, Kathy. Do you write fiction or nonfiction? Teaching young readers the power of words is essential in today’s social media world. Once it’s out there, there’s no going back. I think many adults are just learning this, too. We all need to rein ourselves in once in awhile!

Sandy

The story takes place from 1820 to 1830, much earlier than the years the scrapbook covers, I’m sure. I am looking for any facts, alternative or otherwise, or interesting yarns or tidbits or love triangles or skirmishes or shoot-outs. You know, all of life’s usual succulent delicacies.

I’ll definitely treat you to a cuppa or glassa when I’m next in Pittsford, Sandra! And of course, if you venture into NJ, drop me a line.

And perhaps an escape, Gini?

Thanks for stopping by!

Sandy

I can check. What year range are you writing about? I didn’t know that about Mama’s family! Hey, sign me up for a meet-up the next time you’re back!

Sandy

That scrapbook sounds interesting! Anything in there I could use? Mama Beckwith’s family, the Evanses, were boat builders, apparently, though that is all I know about them. I assume they built barges around Oneida Lake. One day we should have a canalside meet-up.

It sounds really interesting! I find Erie Canal-era history fascinating. When I was in college, Papa’s turn-of-the-century and later scrapbooks provided research material for a term paper on the Erie-then-Barge Canal. I have several of his scrapbooks now and took them to Bev Fink’s one evening to flip through with Louis and Audrey. They found clippings about their elementary school accomplishments! It was pretty cool.

Sandy

My current project, when I get to it, is another historical fiction novel. This one explores the theme of mercy and reconciliation in the Canal Era. Its working title, Whippletree, is an old word for dogwood trees, as well as a device used by teams of horses, ‘teams’ being the operative word. Two of its characters were born into a previous book, Passage Oak. I liked them too much to let them go. They migrate from Cornwall to America (back then it was SO possible!) to work on the canals of New York State and New Jersey. You probably realize, living where you do, Sandra, what an interesting time it history that was.