In this second week of Women's History Month, we are looking at books that will give you ideas for writing your female ancestor's life.
Title: A Midwife's Tale: The Life of Martha Ballard, Based on Her Diary, 1785-1812
Author: Laurel Thatcher Ulrich
Publisher: Vintage Books
Synopsis: "Martha Ballard was a midwife and medical practitioner. Her diary recounts the sensational events of her neighborhood--whether it be the ex-minister's wife charging a local judge with rape or the mass murder of a family--and catches the small movements that characterized life and death in an 18th-century town." (Google Books)
Why You Need This Book: I realize not everyone inherited a female ancestor's diary. However, this book includes annotated content that helps explain the diary and the time period. It's a good reminder that our family isn't going to understand the time period and the records we write about. Maybe annotating some of what you write will make it more readable. I also highly recommend the companion website that includes all of the original records that go with the books. You can find this at DoHistory.org .
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