Gouldtown, A Very Remarkable Settlement of Ancient Date - by William Steward & Theophilus G Steward (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

This exceptional history profiles Gouldtown, a settlement which in many ways typified small-town life in the New England of long ago.

The historic settlement of Gouldtown, New Jersey carries a notable role in US history, with several distinguished persons born within its bounds. Although small, the town is remarkable for being one of the best catalogued in its region; this history contains dozens of photographs of local landmarks and community figures, immersing readers in the tight-knit existence residents led centuries ago. As such, this can be considered a snapshot of life in a distant period of America's past.

Being written at the beginning of the 20^th century, this work's style is vastly different from a modern history textbook. We are told a series of anecdotes - these are interesting, even whimsical, stories of the times before and after Gouldtown's founding. Various events and well-known locals are discussed, their spirit and determination to succeed and persevere detailed to a superb degree. We discover how locals supported local trade and commerce, contributed to religious life, and fought valiantly in the U.S. Civil War and other conflicts of the 19^th century.

In all, those interested in New England and American life long ago will find much value in this chronicle of the past.