by Joseph William Schmitz (Author)
In Daily Life..., the everyday tribulations and joys of the pioneers of the Republic of Texas spring vibrantly to life. Drawn primarily from diaries and letters of those who lived and traveled in Texas during its earliest days, the book chronicles the lives of the settlers in first-hand accounts, both of the working-class farmer and of the leisurely dandy. Procuring or manufacturing basic shelter & provisions, horrendous roads, threats of Indian attacks, devalued currency and the ever-present spectre of disease made for less-than- ideal living conditions in the new nation. Out of these conditions were borne the traits of genuine Texan hospitality and neighborly concern. To relieve the stresses of pioneer life, the Texans passed the time whittling, attended barbecues, and celebrated heartily at every opportunity. They worked and they played hard. This is their story.