Did you know that February 7th is Laura Ingalls Wilder’s birthday? When I think of my life now, a comfortable home, heating and air conditioning, a car, a piano, and even electricity, I can only be amazed at what Laura and other pioneer women of the 1800s were like. What strong and courageous people they must have been! I wanted to give honor to these and other amazing pioneer women who were part of the tremendous heritage that we possess. Here’s a recent video of my tribute called “Summer on the Prairie” from the American Portraits book:
The steadfast strength and courage of American pioneer women played a key role in American history and should not be overlooked. When Congress passed the Kansas-Nebraska Act in 1854, these women traveled across very difficult terrain an dmade their homes in remote areas without any of the comforts of home or niceties enjoyed by those living in the big cities. Working in humble circumstances, these amazing pioneer women learned to enjoy the simple things in life like the song of the crickets chirping [listen for it in the piece], the sound of the wind in the blowing grass, and the musical sounds of the prairie. Their sacrifices helped lay the foundations for our great Midwestern cities.
Happy Birthday, Laura!
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This was beautiful. Thank you for sharing.
I love this piece, Wendy. Coincidentally, I’ve just been rereading Donald Zochert’s biography of Laura Ingalls Wilder, and marveling at her amazing childhood and life. Laura is one of my childhood and lifelong heroes. I am going to order this book right now! And thanks for the preview. I look forward to hearing and playing the remaining pieces.
Thanks Kathy! I’m working on more recordings of them. One of my favorites is “Morning at Yellowstone” about Thomas Moran…more to come. Thanks so much for buying the book when you do!