Complex and paradoxical; Nehemiah Matson (1816–1873) celebrated the occupation of the Middle West by European pioneers even as he labored to preserve the memory of the natives these pioneers replaced. He perpetuated the memory of the Indians who were driven out of the territory; but he nevertheless accumulated wealth selling their land to the pioneers. Rodney O. Davis notes in his new foreword to this book that Matson combined the attributes of a scholar with those of a salesman and promoter. Matson settled in Princeton; Illinois; in 1836. He left behind a library partially endowed by him; named for him; and finally completed in 1913. According to Davis; however; Matson’s other legacy; “of equal significance in his own eyes; consisted of the five books he authored on northern Illinois and Illinois River history and cartography; volumes based not only on conscientious scholarship but also on both Indian and white reminiscence and on local folklore.†Matson’s historical writings are valuable even when he deals with well-known events because his personal perspective makes his observations unique. Without the stories and reminiscences he collected; much valuable information would have been lost; especially since many of his informants; both Indian and European; were illiterate. Because his informants often told conflicting stories; Matson admitted that “harmonizing all conflicting accounts . . . has not been a success.†Although Matson’s sources may not always have agreed; and sometimes his heart may have overruled his head and colored his accounts; he was a conscientious and committed author. “Obviously;†Davis explains; “this book must be evaluated as what it is; a piece of colorful local history; romantically anchored in legend yet rooted also in invaluable research and produced by a dedicated amateur whose standards were high. . . . French and Indians of Illinois River is a model of its type; indeed a minor classic.â€
#418232 in Books 1986-08-01Ingredients: Example IngredientsOriginal language:EnglishPDF # 1 8.30 x .70 x 6.90l; .93 #File Name: 0809128128256 pages
Review
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. Bring the beauty of seasonal rhythms into your home and faith community.By Heather L MonkmeyerThis book; To Dance With God; has shaped our family's and our communities’ church year more than any other resource. Gertrud Mueller Nelson seriously informed my parenting more than any other writer.Bringing the beauty of seasonal rhythms into our home and then into our faith community charged our lives with intention and meaning. It started with St. Nicholas day as a family breakfast and over the years turned into a large community group gathering based on GMN's description of her community's observance. Her Advent and Lent histories and invitations are deep and wonderful. Mardi Gras/Carnival was an event we learned about from GMN and added into our calendar. I introduced it to my new congregation this year. The children's ministry and the youth ministry and spiritual formation collaborated and it was a wonderful way to enter into the season of Lent (a teaching moment) with a very intergenerational crowd. Easter sunrise outdoor services in a park were also inspired by her complete with water; wind; and fire.Wow. I've learned a lot from Gertrud and her writing. Our younger daughter will graduate in a few weeks and it causes me to consider all I did and didn't do as a parent. What GMN opened to me; I passed on to her; and I believe she will pass similar gifts to her children. My copy is dog-eared and full of notes. Enjoy; Everyone!!4 of 4 people found the following review helpful. Heartwarming; gentle inspirationBy Jonell KelseyTo Dance With God has been on my bedside bookshelf for years. I read it every Advent and when I'm feeling down. I have bought copies for my children as they have begun their own families. It's not just for Catholics but for anyone who wants to establish treasured traditions in their homes and to inspire thoughtful circumspection in the frenzy of the holidays. Beautiful illustrations and suggestions for decor and food.3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. Grandparents: get yourself a giftBy D. OlsonMaking memories that last a lifetime is at the heart of it when I think of spending time with children. Such memories are often best grounded in meaningful ritual. If you are a grandparent; I can think of no better avenue for generating the building of meaningful memories than this beautiful book provides. Gift it to yourself and/or others you love. You'll not be disappointed.
