Old Caravan Days

"Old Caravan Days" by Mary Hartwell Catherwood is a historical novel set in the mid-19th century, around the year 1857. The story centers on Grandma Padgett and her family as they embark on a journey westward to Illinois, leaving behind their home and friends in Ohio. The narrative captures the challenges and excitement of travel during this time, highlighting themes of change, family ties, and the uncertain promise of new beginnings. At the start of the journey, Grandma Padgett prepares for departure with her grandson Robert Day (Bobaday) and her niece Corinne. The opening chapters depict their bittersweet farewells to neighbors and the emotions tied to leaving their familiar life behind. As they set off, various characters and lively interactions unfold, including encounters with friends and strangers, hints of danger, and lighthearted moments, like Corinne's worries about a mysterious old man with a bag. Grandma Padgett's steadfast determination is a guiding force as they navigate the winding roads towards their new life, facing both trivial and extraordinary adventures along the way. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Mary Hartwell Catherwood was an American writer of popular historical romances, short stories, and poetry. Early in her career she published under her birth name, Mary Hartwell, and under the pseudonym Lewtrah. She was known for setting her works in the Midwest, for a strong interest in American dialects, and for bringing a high standard of historical accuracy to the period detail of her novels.