Women's Diaries of the Westward Journey

by Lillian Schlissel

Book Overview

An expanded edition of one of the most original and provocative works of American history of the last decade, which documents the pioneering experiences and grit of American frontier women. This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0805210040
• ISBN13: 9780805210040
• Release Date: September 1992
• Publisher: Schocken Books Inc
• Length: 288 Pages
• Weight: 1.04 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 6.0" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

Women's Diaries of the Westward Journey

An excellent compilation of diaries of women traveling by covered wagons in the 1800s. Lillian Schlissel, the author, did extensive research, and, when possible, was able to give the reader information as to what happened to these women after their journies. The author was able to comment on the lack of personal details in the diaries by giving some history of "the culture of the times". What the women did share with us in their diaries was heartrending and I found myself brought to tears and full of gratitude for the comforts on my modern-day farm. A good read, and definitely worthy of keeping in the home library.

Great Book!

One of the best and entertainment history books that I have ever read. You cannot stop when you start reading this book. It also have a lot of pictures, so you can visualize what the author is talking about. We learn how it was difficult for women to travel West, so they can have a better future. Author did a lot of research to write this book. Author did a great job. I recommend you to read it.

Experience an incredible journey!

This is an incredible opportunity to journey into the past through the real-life writings of women who traveled west by wagons on the Overland Trail (1841-1867). Read what two women thought when they came across the waters from a hot spring -- one woman expresses her worry that Satan must be close by while another writes about the great convenience of being able to make quick a cup of tea! There are many stories that will make you laugh, cry, and wonder about the hardships and triumphs all these diary writers faced. This is a book you will read over and over again.

Family Stories

I purchased this book to read more about Jane Gould Tourtillot, who, it turns out, was my great-grandfather's aunt by marriage. For me, this book provided a glimpse into her world, and by extension, my world. I can't imagine riding a wagon or walking for miles wearing a long-sleeved, long dress in scorching heat. Or, for that matter, preparing meals, being pregnant, taking care of children, or burying a loved one on the side of the road. But these women did all these things in stride. Modern women focus on what women weren't able to do in the 19th century but this book shows that women have always been strong, brave and capable. It's a wonderful book which you will enjoy for years to come.