A History of Southern Illinois

In A History of Southern Illinois , George Washington Smith begins by describing the geology of Southern Illinois and the lives of the Indians who lived there.  He then details the experiences of Europeans who explored the area.  Using information he found in journals, he gives us biographies and a glimpse of the daily lives of the European settlers. We learn the obstacles they overcame to establish farms and businesses and to build schools and churches.  Smith also describes the growth of military protection and government.  Pictures, maps, and architectural drawings bring the stories to life.  Explore this three-volume history for a look at the lives of those who lived, loved, and toiled as they settled Southern Illinois.  This book is available in our historic Illinois Room.  (IR 977.3 SMI) BP