|
A Garrard County
Tragedy Reviewed by Vickie
Adkins, MyShelf.com Vibrantly told, A GARRARD COUNTY TRAGEDY takes you back in time to Kentucky in the middle 1800s when life should have been simple, but oftimes was far from it. Kentuckian Phyllis Brown vividly depicts the scenes in Garrard County. You can easily imagine the rolling hills, lush trees, and beautiful wildflowers. However, the theme of this true story is not quite so picturesque. The Hill and Evans' families began feuding in 1829, but the story begins March 15, 1852, at the burial of Mary Hill's father Isaiah, and her Uncle Russell. Mary recounts what little she understood about the feud and relives the day her father and uncle were killed and brother James was seriously wounded. A few months after Isaiah Hill's death, Mary picks up the slack and feels that,all things considering, the family has adjusted and everyone is settling into an everyday routine. Life is not without troubles, though. The children discover that Isaiah Hill had spent most of his money for legal fees, fighting the Evanses in court. They resort to selling part of their parents' possessions to pay off the debts and keep the farm intact and running. While in town to buy
supplies, Mary encounters a long time friend named Life becomes easier now that Mary has someone to lean on, but legal troubles continue with the Hill brothers being charged with murder. The family bands together, bringing a conclusion to the feud, and moving the entire family to new locations. Brown's research spanned over ten years, and she draws the books to conclusion by recounting her actual visit to the Hill family homestead and cemetery. I enjoyed the book immensely. Phyllis Brown poured her heart and soul into telling their story in a way that would make the Hill family very proud. ----- |
© MyShelf.Com. All Rights Reserved