Scope and Contents Narrators discuss rural life in the early 20th century near Alton, Shipman, Wood River, Grafton, and Jerseyville, Illinois. They recall family and childhood, one room schools, teaching, early transportation, riverboats, entertainment, farming, and merchandising in Bertman's store. They also recall Civil War stories, poetry, and holidays. The memoir is comprised of individual interviews with the following: Thelma Bartels, Mr. Bertman, Rolland Cook, Mrs. Donham, Eva McKee, and Sarah Pivoda...