Mary Derwent : $b a tale of Wyoming and Mohawk Valleys in 1778

by Ann S. (Ann Sophia) Stephens

"Mary Derwent: A Tale of Wyoming and Mohawk Valleys in 1778" by Ann S. Stephens is a historical novel written in the mid-19th century. The story is set during a tumultuous period of conflict between settlers and Native Americans, focusing on the life of Mary Derwent and her family in the idyllic yet dangerous Valley of Wyoming. As tensions rise amidst the backdrop of war, the narrative explores themes of love, loss, and the struggle for identity in a harsh environment. The opening of the novel introduces readers to the picturesque setting of the Valley of Wyoming and the delicate relationships within the Derwent family. We meet Mary, a fragile young girl who is contrasted against her more robust sister, Jane. Their father, Derwent, grapples with grief after the loss of his wife while raising his daughters with the help of their loving grandmother. The tranquility of their lives is disrupted when the threat of Indian raids looms, reflecting the precarious existence of settlements during this time. As tensions in the community rise, the strong bond between the sisters is tested, and we begin to see foreshadowing of the struggles and emotional turmoil they are bound to face. Through vivid depictions of nature and familial affection, the early chapters weave a tapestry of innocence that sets the stage for the challenges ahead.