I would call this little book “small but mighty”! This compilation of mini-biographies of pioneer Summit County women was a project of our local Summit County chapter of P.E.O. (P.E.O. is a philanthropic and educational organization interested in bringing increased educational opportunities to women.) The book was first published in 1976 and has had six printings since then.
The women in this book were true pioneers of their era. These women brought to this rough, forbidding land, their strengths and courage that have helped it survive and thrive. Most of these ladies were born in the last quarter of the nineteenth century and the first quarter of the twentieth and came here as children from elsewhere. Through learning about their tears and triumphs you will also learn so much about our colorful, local history.
Mining, ranching and agriculture, our schools, churches, local government, commerce and society all become apparent, as you read these inspiring stories. Oftentimes written in the colloquial language of the day, the stories become even more alive. Life in this county certainly wasn’t easy for both old and young, so many of these women accepted these conditions as a part of life. Their devotion to family, concern for their neighbors, and a sense of duty to their town, helped to build the West. Learning about their lives is certainly inspirational and some of you might even remember hearing about or even knowing some of them. Enjoy!
Book Review Written by: Sherrie Calderini
January 2021