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An Inspiring Story That began as One Book is now a Series
Historical fiction from award-winning journalist Jeff W. Ishee
two sacks. nine souls. one epic journey.
Book #1 - The Story
In 1803, the Ische family made a difficult decision. Members of three generations left their homeland in Canton Bern in Swiss/Germany and emigrated to America. It was a life-altering decision. They carried everything they owned in two sacks.
Follow this family of nine, ranging in age from 2 to 69, as they travel down the Rhine River aboard a Dutch cutter; depart Amsterdam as ‘Redemptioners’ aboard the brig Commerce; trek on foot down the Great Wagon Road from Philadelphia through Lancaster, Pennsylvania and Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley to the Carolinas and Georgia; to finally cross the remote Indian trails of the Alabama Territory and reach their destination in the wilderness of the Mississippi Territory. Along this epic journey, they would welcome new friendships, test their endurance, and suffer enormous tragedy.
The reader will be transported in time to a period of history when dauntless men and women from the Old Country sought a new life in America, willing to pay the price of whatever it took to establish their families in a new world.
The sequel (Book #2) "Magnolia Frontier" is now available.
Every family has a story
This Swiss/German family came to America with dreams, big dreams that included cotton, land ownership, liberty... and love.
They depart the Old Country as a family of nine, having no idea that only the three boys would survive the epic journey. Traveling along the Great Wagon Road, the brothers John, Jacob, and Fred ultimately find themselves in the deep wilderness of the Mississippi Territory. It is 1805. With little government and no laws, it is every man for himself. The brothers must rely on their wits and each other as they stake a claim at a place they name "Hope Hill." They are fortunate to make allies with nearby Choctaw Indians. Aged 21, 18, and 8, they experience danger, adventure, dismay, and heartbreak, all while carrying the heavy weight of their family's loss. Can they overcome their grief to forge a new future and even find love?
The reader will be transported in time to a period of history when resolute men and women establish their roots in the Old South. This is a story of faith, grit, and resilience, when a new nation was being forged in the heart of the American frontier. This is the Mississippi Territory.
About the Author
Jeff W. Ishee is an award-winning journalist with a 30-year career in print, radio, and television media. He is passionate about gardening, genealogy, American history, and growing heirloom peanuts. He is a direct descendant of Hans Jacob Ische (Ishee), one of the primary characters in this book. Jeff is married to Carole Marshall Ishee and lives near the Great Wagon Road in Augusta County, Virginia.
The Books
Two Sacks - Available since December 1, 2023
Magnolia Frontier - Available since November 1, 2025
You may order either of the books in three versions - hardcover, paperback, or Kindle through Amazon.com (click here).
Or, you may order the books directly from the author, who is pleased to sign your copy personally. (Scroll down for info)
NOTE: Yes. We do accept checks.