Letters of a Pioneer Homesteader

or A Book Review

"When you think of me you must think of me as one who is truly happy. It is true, I want a great many things I haven't got, but I don't want them enough to be discontented and not enjoy the many blessings that are mine."

I discovered these inspiring words recently when I read  Letters of a Woman Homesteader by Elinore Pruitt Stewart. This nonfiction book is comprised of letters that Stewart wrote from 1909 to 1913 to a former employer. During this time, she was trying to establish a homestead in Wyoming and gives a good snapshot of life during these frontier times. The letters are published just as she wrote them except for an occasional omission or name change.

Although Stewart had no formal education, she is a good storyteller and writer. She tells stories about her life, her neighbors, and adventures she had when she was traveling throughout the vast area. At that time in Wyoming, your neighbor could be days away by horse or wagon and she thought nothing about gathering up her babies and heading out. Though usually not the main emphasis of her letters, you also get a good idea of what every day life was like. 



What did I think of the book?

• I enjoyed this book more that any others I have read for a while. I found myself wanting to know what was going to happen next in her little community.
• Stewart is clever.  She made me smile more than once with a joke or humorous word play.
• I highly recommend it especially if you like to read personal accounts of history.

The book also gave me some food for thought.

• Oh, my goodness, people were isolated during those times.
• They had so little access to things, they really took pride in what little they did have.
• Life went on even when the snow was over their heads or mountains were hard to cross.
• When letters were the main form of communication, everyday writing was rich.
• Hard work and determination were very important assets.
• A positive attitude can help you survive most anything.

In conclusion:

• When I grow up, I want to be like Stewart. She lived life trying to better herself, working hard, and having a positive attitude. A winning combination if there ever was one.