The Captivity of Fanny Kelly: A Story of Faith and Resilience

Imagine that you're traveling across the American frontier, seeking a fresh start with your loved ones, when suddenly, everything changes in the blink of an eye. This was the reality for Fanny Kelly, a woman whose incredible story of survival and faith would become one of the most remarkable captivity narratives from the Old West.

In 1864, Fanny’s life took a drastic turn when she was captured by the Sioux, one of the most powerful tribes of the Great Plains. But instead of letting her circumstances defeat her, Fanny’s strength, perseverance, and faith in God carried her through months of hardship. Her story is one of tragedy, yes, but also of incredible courage, and it’s a reminder that no matter how bleak life may seem, God’s grace is always present—even in the darkest moments.

A New Life on the Frontier

Fanny Kelly was born in 1829 in Pennsylvania, and after marrying Samuel Kelly, she moved west with him to start a new life in Colorado. Like many settlers of the time, Fanny and Samuel were filled with hope for a better future as they journeyed westward. They were part of a wagon train that was making its way through southeastern Colorado. The year was 1864, and tensions between Native American tribes and settlers were running high as the U.S. government pushed westward, encroaching on the lands that many tribes had lived on for generations.

Library of Congress, Public domain

The Kellys, along with other travelers, were ambushed by a group of Sioux, Cheyenne, and Arapaho warriors. It was early in the morning on August 20 when the attack began. The settlers were unprepared for the brutal assault, and many were killed, including Fanny’s husband, Samuel. In the chaos, Fanny became separated from the group and was taken captive by the Sioux.

Library of Congress, Public domain

Life in Captivity

Fanny’s life changed overnight. She went from being a settler woman with a family, a home, and a hopeful future to a prisoner, surrounded by strangers. At first, the Sioux kept her with several other captives, mostly women and children. The conditions were harsh. Fanny was terrified, and it wasn’t just the physical hardship that wore her down, but the emotional toll of losing her husband and the uncertainty of her future.

The Sioux were not quick to harm their captives, but they didn’t exactly show mercy either. Fanny was forced to endure a life for which she was unprepared—struggling to survive on little food and enduring extreme weather while separated from everything she knew. The customs and language of her captors were unfamiliar, and she had to learn how to live in this new world, even though she didn’t want to.

But what stands out most in Fanny’s captivity is her faith. She was a Christian woman, and though she was far from her home and her church, she clung to the belief that God had a purpose for her, even in the midst of trial. During her captivity, Fanny would often pray, and though her circumstances seemed hopeless, her heart remained steadfast. In her darkest moments, she believed that God was watching over her, even when it seemed like no one else cared.

The Escape and the Journey Home

Fanny Kelly, Public Domain

After four months of captivity, Fanny found a chance to escape. One evening, the Sioux camp became distracted. Historians don't know the reason for the disruption. Some speculate that the warriors were preoccupied with gathering food or preparing for travel. Even a simple conversation could have created a lapse in vigilance. Fanny seized the opportunity and slipped away into the night. Alone, scared, and surrounded by wilderness, she nonetheless determined to survive. Fanny traveled through the unforgiving Rocky Mountains, not knowing if she would make it out alive but trusting God to guide her steps.



Fanny wandered in the wilderness for weeks, facing starvation, exposure, and the constant fear of recapture. Through it all, Fanny's faith, courage, and will to survive kept her going. Eventually, Fanny came across a group of soldiers that rescued her.

Although physically weak by the time she made it back to civilization, Fanny felt spiritually strong. She wrote down her story, which was published as Narrative of my Captivity Among the Sioux Indians.The book tells a story of courage, survival, faith, and ultimately God's deliverance that struck a chord with readers of her time, and it continues to inspire many today.

A Legacy of Faith and Courage

Fanny Kelly’s story is more than just a tale of captivity—it’s a testament to the power of faith, hope, and resilience. In a world that often seems out of control, Fanny’s unwavering belief in God’s protection and purpose reminds us that we, too, can face our own struggles with strength and courage.

Her experience reflected many of the trials faced on the frontier. It reminds us that even in the midst of great suffering, God can provide the strength to persevere. Whether in the wilderness of the American Plains or in the wilderness of our own lives, Fanny’s story shows us that hope is always worth holding onto.

As you reflect on Fanny Kelly’s story, consider how her faith and resilience might inspire you in your own life. No matter what challenges you face, remember that God is always with you, and He can help you find a way through—even when it seems impossible.

About Janalyn Voigt

Janalyn Voigt fell in love with literature at an early age when her father read chapters from classics as bedtime stories. When Janalyn grew older, she put herself to sleep with tales "written" in her head. Today Janalyn is a storyteller who writes in several genres. Romance, mystery, adventure, history, and whimsy appear in all her novels in proportions dictated by their genre.

Learn more about Janalyn, read the first chapters of her books and subscribe to her e-letter at http://janalynvoigt.com.

Cheyenne Sunrise

Many of the events in Cheyenne Sunrise (Montana Gold, book 2) are based on Fanny Kelly's account of her captivity. 

Bry, the heroine of Cheyenne Sunrise, travels West by wagon train to start a new life on her brother's ranch. When Sioux warriors capture her, she wonders if she will have the chance. The wagon train's half-Cheyenne trail guide rides after her, even though returning to his mother's tribe opens old wounds.

Cheyenne Sunrise and the six-book Montana Gold series is based on actual historical events during a time of unrest in America. Each book in the Montana Gold series explores faith, love, and courage in the Wild West. Learn more.

Women and Inheritance in the late 1800s

By Susan G Mathis

The late 19th century was a transformative period for women in the United States and Canada, particularly regarding their rights and roles in society. One significant aspect of this evolution was the question of inheritance.

In 1890, the legal landscape surrounding women’s inheritances was fraught with challenges and restrictions, reflecting broader societal attitudes about gender, property, and autonomy. The laws
were largely influenced by common law and state statutes. Traditionally, laws favored men, granting them greater control over property and inheritance rights. Under common law, inheritance was primarily a male-dominated system. When a man died, his estate would typically pass to his sons, and if there were no sons, it would go to male relatives. Daughters were often considered secondary heirs, and their inheritance was limited.

The mid-19th century saw the introduction of Married Women’s Property Acts in several states, which aimed to give married women some control over their property and inheritance. Before these acts, when a woman married, her property would typically be transferred to her husband, leaving her with little legal standing. By 1890, many states had enacted these laws, allowing married women to inherit property and retain control over their own finances. However, the extent of these rights varied significantly by state.

Dower rights were another legal concept that affected women’s inheritance. These rights provided a widow with a portion of her deceased husband’s estate, typically one-third, for her lifetime. However, this provision did not grant her full ownership or control, and it often only applied if the couple had children. If a woman was unmarried or had no children, her dower rights could be severely limited.

In 1890, societal attitudes played a significant role in shaping women’s inheritance rights. The prevailing belief was that men were the primary breadwinners and decision-makers, while women were expected to focus on domestic duties. This view limited women’s access to financial independence and property ownership. Women were often seen as dependent on their fathers or husbands for financial security. This dependency reinforced the notion that women did not need to inherit property, as their economic needs were expected to be met by male relatives.

The late 19th century marked the beginning of organized efforts to secure greater rights for women, including inheritance rights. The suffrage movement, which gained momentum in the 1890s, brought attention to various aspects of women's rights, including property and inheritance. Activists worked tirelessly to challenge existing laws and promote equality.

Understanding the history of women’s inheritance rights in this era helps us appreciate the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the progress that has been made since then. Julia’s Joy addresses some of these rights…and more.

Have you ever received an inheritance? Leave your answer or comments on the post below and join me on February 19th for my next post.

ABOUT JULIA’S JOY

Book 2 of the Love in a Lighthouse series:

When Julia Collins reluctantly sets foot on Sister Island, compelled by her grandmother’s will, she is intent on claiming her inheritance and moving on. But when she experiences the faith-filled island life and connects with the handsome lightkeeper, William, Julia finds herself confronting her open wounds from her parents’ deaths. Between a past betrayal and his chronic pleurisy, William Dodge, lightkeeper of Sister Island, wants nothing to do with love. But Julia turns his world upside down. But just as love begins to blossom between them, Julia is faced with a tempting proposal from a prominent Brockville family. Will she succumb to societal expectations or choose the richness of her island life and the love of the steadfast lightkeeper?

ABOUT SUSAN:

Susan G Mathis is an international award-winning, multi-published author of stories set in the beautiful Thousand Islands in upstate NY. Susan has been published more than thirty times in full-length novels, novellas, and non-fiction books. She has thirteen in her fiction line. Susan is also a published author of two premarital books, stories in a dozen compilations, and hundreds of published articles. Susan lives in Colorado Springs and enjoys traveling the world. Visit www.SusanGMathis.com/fiction for more.

Matilda Joslyn Gage by Nancy J. Farrier

 

Matilda Joslyn Gage
Public Domain, Wikimedia Commons

Matilda Joslyn, born in 1826 in Cicero, New York, learned to care for others from an early age. Her father, a doctor, was a liberal thinker, and an abolitionist. He made their home into an underground railroad station, and Matilda was involved from an early age in helping escaped slaves get to safety.

 

Matilda received her early education at home from her parents. Her father encouraged her to study medicine and taught her what he could. Matilda loved education and went to Clinton Liberal Institute but was refused admission to study as a doctor because she was a woman.

 

Engraving of 
Matilda Joslyn Gage
Wikimedia Commons

In 1845, Matilda married Henry H. Gage, a merchant. They moved to Fayetteville,New York. After the Fugitive Slave Law passed in 1850, Matilda was threatened with prison for helping escaped slaves, something the new law stated was a criminal act.

 

Matilda turned her focus to the women’s rights movement, and spoke at the National women’s Rights Convention in Syracuse in 1852. She was well-educated and a gifted writer, often sending articles to newspapers and getting them printed. She was able to put into words the frustrations of women and her writing appealed to many.

 

Susan B. Anthony
By artist J. E. Baker
Wikimedia Commons

By 1870, Matilda had moved to the forefront of the women’s movement, fighting for the right of women to vote. She worked closely with activists such as Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton. She supported Anthony, who had been put on trial for voting in the 1872 presidential election. The three women worked together to compile three volumes of what would become the six-volume set, History of Woman Suffrage. By this time, Matilda had her own newspaper, besides writing for several other periodicals.

 

Elizabeth Cady Stanton
By Henry Bryan Hall, Jr.
Wikimedia Commons

Matilda was known for her support of female inventors. She wrote a pamphlet, Woman as an Inventor. She brought to light many women whose inventions were stolen by or credited to men. One of those was Catherine Greene. Matilda insisted Greene invented the cotton gin, while Eli Whitney got the credit.

 

Most people believed that women possessed “no inventive or mechanical genius,” but Matilda answered that in 1883 with these words, which were lauded by the New York Times: “In not a single State of the Union is a married woman held to possess a right to her earnings within the family; and in not one-half of them has she a right to their control in business entered upon outside of the household. Should such a woman be successful in obtaining a patent, what then! Would she be free to do as she pleased with it? Not at all. She would hold no right, title, or power over this work of her own brain.” (Matilda Joslyn Gage, 1883)

 

 

She was also an advocate in many other areas, such as Native American rights. She spoke out about the brutal treatment of many Native Americans. She was fascinated with the Iroquois matriarchal society. She spent a lot of time learning from them and being among the tribes. They name her Karonienhawi (she who holds the sky) and initiated her into the Wolf Clan, admitting her to the Iroquois Council of Matrons. 

Matilda's signature
Example of her excellent handwriting

 

Matilda Gage was a hard worker and fought all her life for what she believed and to help those less fortunate. She did her best to pass that on to her children, but her youngest daughter, Maud, was the one who followed in her footsteps the most. (We’ll take a look at Maud and her husband next month.) 

 

In 1898, Matilda died of a stroke at her home. In 1993, Margaret Rossiter, a scientific historian, adopted the phrase Matilda Effect, a reference to Matilda Joslyn Gage. The Matilda Effect applies to women scientists who receive little to no credit for their work. Upon close examination, theses female scientists contributions were much greater than originally thought. 

Plaque outside Fayetteville home
By Dirtdiver, Wikimedia Commons

Matilda left a legacy, including being inducted into the National Women’s Hall of fame in 1995. There is also a plaque outside her home in Fayetteville, New York. Her former home also houses the Matilda Joslyn Gage Foundation and is a museum, open to the public.

 

Have you ever heard of Matilda Joslyn Gage? Do you know who her famous son-in-law is? If not, stay tuned for next month when I’ll take an in-depth look at that part of her family. Remember, I love to hear from you. It’s always fun to share bits of history with you.

Nancy J Farrier is an award-winning, best-selling author who lives in Southern Arizona in the Sonoran Desert. She loves the Southwest with its interesting historical past. When Nancy isn’t writing, she loves to read, do needlecraft, play with her cats and dog, and spend time with her family. You can read more about Nancy and her books on her website: nancyjfarrier.com.

A Brief History of the Influence of the Turkey on American Culture

Turkey has been the main course at Thanksgiving tables since the first official celebration declared by Abraham Lincoln. It was often a Christmas staple as well. Did you know the Mayans had domesticated them some 2,000 years ago? In the 1500s the Spanish explorers returned to Europe with domesticated turkeys, where they became a part of common livestock. The pilgrims brought some with them when they migrated to the New World, as it was known then.  

Difference between domestic and wild turkeys

 
Wild turkeys neared extinction until conservation efforts rebuilt the flocks. They are now in 48 states including Hawaii. The Wild Turkey can run up to 25 mph while it can fly as fast as 50mph. This wild variety is cunning and a challenge to hunt.

 
Transporting domestic turkeys

 
Before railroads and refrigeration cars, there was no practical way to get meat to market except alive. Turkeys were walked to market from farm to slaughterhouse, some in gaggles as small as thirty birds to thousands of them being wrangled across the countryside to the neighboring villages. All over the US and Europe, turkeys and other domesticated fowl were herded to market from farms to slaughterhouse.

I recall an article I read about turkey wranglers, men who drove turkeys from Iowa to Denver, Colorado. Tens of thousands of birds walked across the prairie. Although there was a wagon of corn available for food, the turkeys foraged along the way. It was a long trip because as soon as it was dusk they found a place to roost for the night. The drivers couldn’t make them go any further. And don’t take them over a covered bridge. The feathered creature thought the shade was an indication of nightfall, and the wranglers had to chase them from their perches. Wranglers avoided towns because turkeys by the hundreds roosted on roofs, shattering the buildings. They also watched for predators, and injuries, while doing their best to keep them moving. The flock covered about only ten miles a day, and after months of walking, made it to Colorado where they were sold—along with the uneaten corn—for a nice profit. 

 
Turkey trots as the drives were more commonly called were still used after the railroad because many towns had no rail station.

 
A dance and a run

 
Turkey wrangling or Trots continued into the early twentieth century. In 1905, as jazz was coming on the scene, the Turkey Trot was introduced as a dance. It was quickly banned as indecent. One couple was arrested for indecent conduct when caught dancing it,,and two women were fired for doing the dance on their lunch break. Here is a link to a dance instructor demonstrating. The legs and lower body movement and the flapping arms gave it the indecent tag. The foxtrot took its place and is still danced today.

 
Then the Turkey Trot became an 8K race on Thanksgiving Day. It has been an annual event in Buffalo, NY since 1896. Now Turkey Trots are all over the US. Some are not on Thanksgiving Day nor are they as long and are often fundraisers. Some participants run in turkey costumes.

Have you ever heard of the Turkey Trot in any of its forms?

Cindy Ervin Huff, is a multi-published award-winning author. A 2018 Selah Finalist. She has a passion to encourage other writers on their journey. When she isn’t writing, she feeds her addiction to reading and enjoys her retirement with her husband of 50 plus years, Charles. Visit her at www.cindyervinhuff.com.

BIBLE WEEK—IT’S IMPORTANCE TO YOU

 By Catherine Ulrich Brakefield

Thanksgiving Day is just around the corner. China gleams beneath bright chandeliers, and crystal glassware clink amiably of toasts to a prosperous future. Tables ladened with turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, gravy, corn, and cranberry sauce, will spice the air with their bounty, bringing smiles to the participants and distress the day next—when belts will need another hole.

America’s much-loved holiday stems back to that first Thanksgiving meal the Pilgrims had with their American Indian friends. The Pilgrims embarked upon a pilgrimage to a far-off continent with which they knew not the outcome for the sole intent of seeking a safe haven for religious freedoms—not heard the likes of before.

Proposed to honor those brave Pilgrims and the Judeo-Christian principles America was founded upon, many of our forefathers established in 1816, The American Bible Society.

But little do Americans know that the week of Thanksgiving, November 17 to 23 of this year, is National Bible Week.

Former President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1941 began the week tradition. Since then, every president has continued this tradition. Christians throughout the United States during this week will recite hymns, prayers, proverbs, and prophecies from the Bible. The procedure will start the Sunday preceding Thanksgiving, and most churches will hold this event. This is a great way to get the community together to share their faith in the name of Christ Jesus.

And only an infinite God could plan it so that when Japan bombed Pearl Harbor on that fateful December 7, 1941, the nation was deep in prayer that week. NBC was the leading radio station at that time and had begun the day with the head of the National Bible Association. Suddenly the news of the attack at Pearl Harbor broke across the airwaves. NBC requested the National Bible Association to continue their Bible reading throughout the day, in an effort to keep up the morale of the listening Americans.

Tragically, it had been on that day when the National Bible Association was to go to the White House and lay down the foundation for the first National Bible Week. Of course, the founders canceled their plans and instead, wrote a telegram to President Roosevelt stating, “May God bless and guide you in this emergency.”

 To every serviceman entering the armed forces, each was given a small pocket New Testament Bible with these words written upon the inside flap:

 “As Commander-in-Chief I take pleasure in commanding the reading of the Bible to all who serve in the armed forces of the United States. Throughout the centuries men of many faiths and diverse origins have found in the Sacred Book words of wisdom, counsel and inspiration. It is a fountain of strength and now, as always, an aid in attaining the highest aspirations of the human soul.” Franklin D. Roosevelt

In the back of this small book were Psalms, Prayers, and Hymns. A couple of the hymns were: “Lead On O King Eternal,” “Faith of our Fathers”, “America the Beautiful”, “My Country ‘Tis of Thee”, and the “National Anthem.”

President Roosevelt throughout the bloody World War II never failed to uphold the idea of the Bible uniting Americans with the heroic stories of our Creator and the reconciliation of man through his Son, Christ Jesus.

This Christian spirit was embodied throughout the centuries, beginning with that first Pilgrim placing his foot upon America’s virgin soil. However, some historians now say that there were among the founding fathers a few who were rationalists who rejected the Bible’s divine inspiration and Christ’s virgin birth, and miracles. These men were Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin.

A larger number of our Founding Fathers felt otherwise. They regularly quoted The Scriptures and planted their Biblical affections into The Constitution of the United States, The Bill of Rights, and our currency. They glorified Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior as did the patriots of the Revolution who loved to shout to their red-coated adversaries, “No king but Jesus!” There is no doubt that The United States of America was powerfully influenced by the Bible, much more than any nation in history, that is, apart from Israel.

To this day, America’s most beloved book is the Bible and consistently  topped the best seller list. Noah Webster, author of The American Dictionary of the English Language (1828) said, “Our liberty, growth and prosperity was the result of a Biblical philosophy of life. Our continued freedom and success is dependent on our educating the youth of America in the principles of Christianity.” (Leon Stevens, One Nation Under God, pg. 102)

Abraham Lincoln, quoted Matthew 12:22 during his famous Illinois speech, “A house divided against itself cannot stand.” 

This Thanksgiving remember to participate in National Bible Week and enjoy praying with family, and friends. Take time to sing hymns, share your faith with the members of your family, meditate, and read the Holy Scriptures to one another.

“In regard to this Great Book, I have but to say, it is the best gift God has given to man. All the good the Savior gave to the world was communicated through this book.” Abraham Lincoln April 4, 1864

Swept into Destiny: Ben is a proud Irish immigrant who is determined not to give up despite hunger and deprivation. He clings to his mustard-seed faith believing—nothing is impossible.

Maggie is a rebel disguised as a Southern belle. Ben and Maggie’s journeys delve deeply into the truth about faith and devotion.

As the battle between North and South rages, Maggie is torn. Was Ben right? Had this Irish immigrant perceived the truth of what God had predestined for America?

“… Brakefield’s flowing descriptions pull you into Swept into Destiny and keep immersed in the world of the Antebellum south…This isn’t just a world of beaus, belles, and balls, but of moral ambiguity and searches for truth…” L.H. Reader

An award-winning author, Catherine’s inspirational historical romances include Wilted Dandelions, her Destiny series Swept into Destiny, Destiny’s Whirlwind, Destiny of Heart, and Waltz with Destiny. Her newest book is Love's Final Sunrise. She has two pictorial history books: The Lapeer Area, and Eastern Lapeer Area. Her short stories have been published in Guideposts Books, CrossRiver Media, Revell Books, and Bethany House Publishers. See catherineulrichbrakefield.com

Reference:

https://www.wayoflife.org/reports/americas_founding_fathers_and_the_bible.html

Mid-Month Madness!

We really appreciate you coming by!

We will be giving away books so be sure to pay attention about how to enter. To enter for a chance to win, you MUST leave a comment WITH your EMAIL and you MUST ask one or more of the authors a question you’d like to know about them, their writing, or their books.

We are looking forward to getting to know you better and hope you’ll get to know us better, too!

Be sure to drop by the Facebook Party for a chance to mingle with the authors and nab even more great giveaways!

The party is today from 5:00 to 6:30 PM Eastern Time.

Amber Lemus inspires hearts through enthralling tales. She has a passion for history, books and her Savior. A homeschool graduate from a family of 12 children, Amber found her calling early in life. First published at age 21, she has continued to hone her craft and has been awarded the Christian Indie Award in Historical Fiction twice. She lives near the Ozarks in her "casita" with her prince charming. Between enjoying life as a boy mom, and spinning stories out of soap bubbles, Amber loves to connect with readers and hang out on Goodreads with other bookish peoples. Amber is an active member of ACFW.

Penny Zeller is known for her heartfelt stories of faith, love, and humor and her passion to impact lives for Christ through fiction. While she has had a love for writing since childhood, she began her adult writing career penning articles for national and regional publications on a wide variety of topics. Today, Penny is a multi-published author of over two dozen books. She is also a fitness instructor, loves the outdoors, and is a flower gardening addict. She resides with her husband and two daughters in small-town America. 

Linda Shenton Matchett writes happily-ever-after historical Christian fiction about second chances and women who overcome life’s challenges to be better versions of themselves. A native of Baltimore, Maryland, she was born a stone’s throw from Fort McHenry (of Star-Spangled Banner fame) and has lived in historical places all her life. She now lives in central New Hampshire where she is a volunteer docent and archivist at the Wright Museum of WWII.

Donna Schlachter is a hybrid author who writes squeaky clean historical and contemporary suspense. She has been published more than 60 times in books; is a member of several writers' groups; facilitates a critique group; teaches writing classes; and judges in writing contests. She loves history and research, traveling extensively for both, and is an avid oil painter. She is taking all the information she’s learned along the way about the writing and publishing process and is coaching committed writers.

Matthew James Elliott (M.J. Elliott) is a passionate writer who loves to encourage and inspire others. He has served in various ministry roles for over 15 years, giving him a unique perspective on people and Biblical History. Matthew holds a degree in Biblical Studies from OkWU, focusing on Pastoral Care, Christian Education, and Worship. Matthew is happily married to Traci. Their three joyfully inspired children are Leyla, Caleb, and Hannah. His goal as a writer is to share love, equip others, and edify them for the greater good. Connecting scripture to his stories is one of his biggest passions.

Solve by Christmas 

When sabotage threatens the Rudin Sugar Factory, Detective Jasper Hollock believes this will be his first real case. But dear Mr. Rudin—the only father Jasper has ever known—holds a different assignment for his private investigator.

“I’ve struck a deal with God, Jasper, and you’re my angel.”

Mr. Rudin charges Jasper to build a “case” of reasons for his employer to continue his life. If he fails, Mr. Rudin will end it in suicide on Christmas night. As the incidents at the factory become life threatening, Jasper’s attempts at dissuading Mr. Rudin prove futile, and Jasper is left staring at the stark reality of his own soul.

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Beyond the Horizon

Newspaperwoman Ruby Shepherdson can keep her job as a reporter only if she convinces hero Jake Lynton to allow her to interview him after he saves the lives of four people.

Haunted by his past, Jake runs from both guilt and God. However, his hopes of living as a recluse are foiled when a beautiful reporter insists he allow her to interview him.

As danger emerges and an unanticipated enemy determines to keep Ruby silent, will Jake fit the pieces together in time to rescue her? Or will he lose the woman who has found a place in his heart?

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Love and Chocolate 

She just needs a job. He wants a career. Is there room in their hearts for love?

Ilsa Krause and her siblings are stunned to discover their father left massive debt behind upon his death. To help pay off their creditors and save the farm, she takes a job at Beck’s Chocolates, the company her father despised and refused to supply with milk. Then she discovers her boss is Ernst Webber, her high school love who unceremoniously dumped her via letter from college. Could life get any more difficult?

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Hearts of Midway

A sheriff's daughter with a nose for mystery and a penchant for wearing trousers. And a Pony Express rider with a secret.

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The Cyprus Journal

One Young Man. His Significant Story. A Witness of the Early Church.

Many knew him as the young cousin to Barnabas the Encourager, the son of Mary who offered her home to honor the Savior and those who followed Him, or even the man who abandoned Paul on his First Missionary Journey, but there is more to his story. His story is one of new beginnings, a promise fulfilled, and a man who overcame fear of the unknown.

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Happy November Birthday to Classic Beauties

 

For the past few months, we’ve celebrated people born on the 14^th of that month because that’s the day I post. 

 

This month is an exception. Each of these classic beauties—talented and award-winning actresses—are November babies but none were born on the 14^th. 

 

I’m a big classic movies fan, and these women star in a few of my favorites. So let’s celebrate them together!

Happy 95^th Birthday to Grace Kelly

Princess Consort of Monaco (1956-1982)

Birth Name: Grace Patricia Kelly

Born: November 12, 1929 (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)

Died: September 14, 1982 (52 years old; Principality of Monaco)

 

She performed as:

• Amy Fowler Kane in High Noon with Gary Cooper (1952);
• Lisa Carol Fremont in Rear Window with Jimmy Stewart (1954);
• Frances Stevens in To Catch a Thief with Cary Grant (1955).

Ms. Kelly, an Academy Award-winning actress, starred in eleven feature films, including a few Alfred Hitchcock classics, and multiple television productions.

 

The American Film Institute named her the 13^th Greatest Female Star of Classic American Cinema in 1999.

"Hollywood amuses me. Holier-than-thou for the public and unholier-than-the-devil in reality" ~ Grace Kelly

 

Happy 104^th Birthday to Gene Tierney

 

Birth Name: Gene Eliza Tierney

Born: November 19, 1920 (Brooklyn, New York)

Died: November 6, 1991 (almost 71 years old; Houston, Texas)

 

She performed as:

• Laura Hunt in Laura with Dana Andrews (1944);
• Ellen Berent Harland in Leave Her to Heaven with Cornel Wilde (1945);
• Lucy Muir in The Ghost and Mrs. Muir with Rex Harrison (1947). In my opinion, this is one of those rare instances when the movie is more engaging than the book.

A talented artist and poet, Ms. Tierney loved to garden and was fluent in French and Italian. She received an Academy Award nomination in 1946 for Best Actress (Leave Her to Heaven), but Joan Crawford took home the Oscar that year for her leading role in Mildred Pierce. 

 

In 2006, Ms. Tierney was ranked 71^st on Premiere Magazine’s “100 Sexiest Movie Stars of All Time” list. 

"I have a role now that I think becomes me. I am a grandmother." ~ Gene Tierney

 

Happy 110^th Birthday to Hedy Lamarr

 

Birth Name: Hedwig Eva Maria Kiesler

Born: November 9, 1914 (Vienna, Austria)

Died: January 19, 2000 (85 years old; Casselberry, Florida)

 

She performed as:

• Delilah in Samson and Delilah with Victor Mature (1949).

Ms. Lamarr was both beautiful and brilliant. Not only was she the inspiration for the character of Catwoman, from the Batman franchise, she also “co-invented frequency hopping spread spectrum technology, which laid the foundation for modern wireless communication systems like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi….During World War II, Hedy Lamarr and composer George Antheil developed a radio guidance system for Allied torpedoes, which used frequency hopping to prevent enemies from jamming the signals” (Profile).

"Hope & curiosity about the future seemed better than guarantees. The unknown was always so attractive to me...and still is." ~ Hedy Lamarr

 

Happy 111^th Birthday to Vivien Leigh

 

Birth Name: Vivian Mary Hartley

Born: November 5, 1913 (Darjeeling, India)

Died: July 8, 1976 (62 years old; London, England)

 

She performed as:

• Scarlett O’Hara in Gone with the Wind with Clark Gable (1939);
• Myra Lester in Waterloo Bridge with Robert Taylor (1940);
• Blanche DuBois in A Streetcar Named Desire with Marlon Brando (1951).

British actress Vivien Leigh won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her performances in Gone with the Wind and A Streetcar Named Desire. Before the latter was made into a movie, she’d performed the role of Blanche DuBois more than 300 times on stage.

 

Ms. Leigh has said that Waterloo Bridge, which was nominated for two Academy Awards, one for Best Music and one for Best Cinematography, was her favorite of all her films (Bean).

"Sometimes I dread the truth of the lines I say. But the dread must never show." ~ Vivien Leigh

 

Happy Half-Birthday to Me!

 

That’s right ~ my real birthday is May 14^th which makes today my half-birthday. Perhaps I’ll celebrate with half a cupcake and a half-scoop of ice cream!

Johnnie Alexander writes “Stories Past and Present” in multiple genres. A fan of classic movies, stacks of books, and road trips, she shares a life of quiet adventure with Rugby, her racoon-treeing papillon. Visit her at johnnie-alexander.com.

 

Photos ~ all photos are in the public domain and posted images were created with Canva.

 

Sources

 

Bean, Kendra. Vivien Leigh: An Intimate Portrait. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Running Press, 2013, pg. 71. 

 

Profile ~ https://www.thefamouspeople.com/profiles/hedy-lamarr-6139.php (accessed 29 October 2024).