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Diaries of a Scottish Craftsman in Mid-Nineteenth Century North America: A Glimpse into the Lives of Everyday People

Damon Hayes

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Published in More Of A Man: Diaries Of A Scottish Craftsman In Mid Nineteenth Century North America

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The diaries of William Young, a Scottish craftsman who emigrated to North America in the mid-nineteenth century, offer a rare and fascinating glimpse into the lives of everyday people during that time. Young's diaries, which span the years 1849 to 1876, are filled with detailed observations about his daily life, his work, and the people he met.

Young was born in Scotland in 1824. He learned the trade of carpentry and joinery, and in 1849, at the age of 25, he decided to emigrate to North America. He arrived in New York City in May of that year, and soon after made his way to Ohio. He worked as a carpenter in Ohio for several years, before moving to Indiana in 1856. He lived in Indiana for the rest of his life, working as a carpenter, farmer, and schoolteacher.

Young's diaries provide a rich source of information about the lives of everyday people in mid-nineteenth century North America. He wrote about his work, his family, his friends, and his community. He also wrote about the political and social events of his time, including the Civil War and the Reconstruction Era.

More of a Man: Diaries of a Scottish Craftsman in Mid-Nineteenth-Century North America

by Milo S. Afong

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3015 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	608 pages

One of the most striking things about Young's diaries is his attention to detail. He recorded everything from the weather to the price of food. He also wrote about the people he met, both friends and strangers. He described their appearance, their personalities, and their stories.

Young's diaries are also full of humor and wit. He had a keen eye for the absurd, and he often poked fun at himself and others. He also had a deep love of nature, and he often wrote about the beauty of the Indiana countryside.

In addition to providing a glimpse into the lives of everyday people, Young's diaries also offer a valuable historical record. They document the development of the Midwest in the nineteenth century, and they provide insights into the social and political issues of the time.

Young's diaries are a fascinating and valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of North America, the lives of everyday people, or the Scottish diaspora. They are a reminder that the past is not just a collection of dates and events, but a tapestry of human stories.

May 10, 1849: "Arrived in New York City after a long and tedious voyage. The city is a vast and bustling place, full of people from all over the world. I am overwhelmed by the size and energy of this place."
June 1, 1849: "I have found work as a carpenter. The work is hard, but I am grateful for the opportunity to earn a living. I am also starting to make friends here. I have met several other Scottish immigrants, and we often gather together to talk about our homeland."
July 4, 1850: "I celebrated Independence Day with my new friends. We had a picnic in the park, and we listened to speeches about the history of the United States. I am proud to be a part of this country, and I am grateful for the opportunities that I have been given here."
January 1, 1856: "I have moved to Indiana. I am starting a new job as a carpenter, and I am also going to start teaching school. I am excited about this new chapter in my life."
December 31, 1876: "I am now 52 years old. I have lived in America for 27 years. I have worked hard, and I have raised a family. I am grateful for the life that I have been given, and I am proud to be an American."

More of a Man: Diaries of a Scottish Craftsman in Mid-Nineteenth-Century North America

by Milo S. Afong

4.5 out of 5