Publisher's Synopsis
History is often written about the rich, famous, powerful, and those at the top of society. We seldom can read about the life, experiences, and dreams of a common citizen, but here is a glimpse of American society of the late nineteenth century 'from the bottom up' as revealed in the life of one man and his family. Myron Smith Towne, who came from Pennsylvania and fought with the Union in the Civil War, sought his fortune by going west, only to encounter hard times, disappointment, and finally success in a small northern Missouri town. Meet the many interesting personalities portrayed here for insight into late nineteenth-century America.