What reasons do you enjoy reading historical novels? Is it a certain time period? Perhaps you’re a big history buff. Or maybe you love the romance of bygone years, when things seemed simpler. Easier. Maybe less stressful. What is it that draws you to pick up a book? Many mention a great cover helps and back cover copy that tugs you into the story. For some, it’s the place, time, or story itself.
When I started out to write a series set in the town and surrounding area where I currently live, I didn’t know some of its vast history. The more I research, in fact, the more I realize of things not known. Honestly, I hadn’t planned on stepping away from penning books set in the Midwest until my husband suggested focusing a series closer to home.
During a recent tour of the original Brady Farm, a homestead dating back to the early 1700s near Newburg, Pennsylvania, I learned of Captain Samuel Brady. One article I read online likened him to Captain America because of his exploits. Some others considered him on the same level as Daniel Boone. Sam was the grandson of Hugh and Hannah Brady, who migrated from Ireland in 1738 and settled in south-central Pennsylvania. Sadly, the log cabin where Samuel was born in Shippensburg was torn down many years ago.
Known for his undertakings as a frontier scout and defender against Native Americans, he also fought in the American Revolutionary War. Samuel’s life and adventures are thought to have been the inspiration for James Fenimore Cooper’s The Last of the Mohicans. I had never heard about this man until I took part in a private tour of his grandparent’s home.
While Samuel won’t likely be featured in any of the books I write, since it’s quite a bit earlier time period than I typically create, learning about the place the original Brady’s built fits into my current work in process. Especially one tidbit the guide mentioned about the trail from the farm to Middle Spring, which led to Shippensburg. I’d been trying to learn the path that locals would’ve taken from Newburg to Shippensburg. That one small comment during the tour helped me form a clear picture of the details I needed.
Sarah’s Search will be available early summer, Lord willing. This is book three in my Time to Come Home series. Each book has required more and more research as I learn more about the place where I live. It’s been such fun diving into history.
How about you? When’s the last time you learned something new about the place where you live? What’s the next history search you plan to undertake? Please share it with us. I can’t wait to hear about it.
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JODIE WOLFE loves writing historical fiction after years as a homeschool mom. She enjoys spending time with her husband in Pennsylvania, reading, knitting, and walking. Jodie creates novels where hope and quirky meet. Visit her at http://www.jodiewolfe.com.