Introduction Pioneers of Fillmore and Adjoining Counties

 

It is a distinct pleasure for me to write a foreword to the "Pioneer Stories," having regard to the fact that its author and myself are fellow countrymen, we having both come from the little Island which has been well called the cradle of the American race. We have also been both engaged in the promulgation of that Gospel without which this old world will never be a scene of peaceful life, however much it may advance in things material.

But it is also a pleasure because of the intrinsic merits of the book which our author has produced, and the production of which has cost him much travel and careful investigation.

The Rev. G. R. McKeith is almost a Scotchman, he having been reared so very near the land of Walter Scott and Robert Burns.

This, perhaps, will account for the fact that he has been so successful in obtaining the particulars from so many individuals concerning their struggles and difficulties as pioneers.

The Scotch are very tactful in asking questions, (they call the process "spearing," which suggests the idea of salmon spearing which is a very delicate operation,) and so we have a succession of pictures of their physical and mental difficulties, and the way in which these brave men and women fighting the battles of their lives came out victors.

The author has also "the saving grace of humor." He might have called his book, "Hard facts of hard lives" and given a series of sad sketches of the terrible hardships endured by these hardy pioneers but, true to life, with its shadows and sunshine, he has looked at both aspects of the case, and has certainly looked at the comic side. I heard Dr. Talmage say in a Thanksgiving Sermon that "He was quite sure that God approved of a hearty laugh or He would not let so many funny things happen," and so we can say of this book:

"Behold herein what leisure hours demand.
Amusement and instruction going hand in hand."

The book has also an historical and topographical value. The facts herein recorded will undoubtedly give a foundation for future histories.

It is interesting to know that these pioneers were well represented in the ranks of the Grand Army of the Republic. When the Unity of these United States was threatened and in danger, these were the men who willingly gave their service in defense of the Union, suffered the hardships of battle, and risked their lives, for the purpose of gaining freedom that would be a joy and a delight to untold generations.

It is with confidence that I recommend the reading of this book to the descendents of the Pioneers.

It is well to remember "the rock from whence we were hewn, and the hole of the pit from whence we were digged," but in how literal a sense is Isaiah's figure of "the hole of the pit" applicable to the offspring of these grand workers of the past who lived "the simple life," with in many cases a "dugout" for a home!

We are all their debtors; and of us all it may be said, "Other men labored and we are entered into their labors."

Carey, J. Sevell
Exeter, Nebraska
February, 1915


The Camp Fire
Drawn Specially for the Pioneer Stories by Mr. D. Dekker Of Gary, Indiana

Pioneers of Fillmore and Adjoining Counties


Source: Pioneer Stories of the Pioneers of Fillmore and adjoining Counties, by G. R. McKeith, Press of Fillmore County News, Exeter, Nebraska, 1915

 

 

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