Aunt Fanny
The Orphan's Home Mittens, and George's Account of the Battle of Roanoke Island
Being the Sixth and Last Book of the Series
"The Orphan's Home Mittens; and George's Account of the Battle of Roanoke Island" by Aunt Fanny is a children's book written in the mid-19th century. This work combines storytelling with themes of compassion and patriotism, set against the backdrop of the Civil War period. It focuses on the experiences of orphans and the impact of the war on families, particularly through the lens of the children waiting for news of their loved ones. At the start of the book, Aunt Fanny visits a group of children, engaging them with poetry and tales about their efforts to knit mittens for soldiers. The children, living in an Orphan's Home, express their hopes and desires, showcasing the resilience and innocence of youth even amid turbulent times. The narrative quickly transitions into the story of the Orphan's Home, detailing its establishment as a refuge for destitute children and introducing characters like George, the older brother whose adventures in the Civil War bring a deeper understanding of valor and loss to the children's lives. The opening sets a vivid emotional tone that emphasizes both the warmth of childhood friendships and the harsh realities of war.