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Palmetto Leaves

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By: (1811-1896)

Palmetto Leaves is a charming and humorous account of Harriet Beecher Stowe's travels through Florida in the late 19th century. Written with warmth and wit, Stowe's observations on the natural beauty of the state, as well as the quirks of its inhabitants, offer readers a delightful glimpse into a bygone era.

Stowe's descriptions of the landscape are vivid and evocative, painting a picture of a lush and vibrant land teeming with wildlife. Her encounters with the local flora and fauna, from alligators to palmetto trees, are both informative and entertaining.

But it is Stowe's interactions with the people of Florida that truly make Palmetto Leaves a joy to read. Her keen eye for detail and sharp sense of humor bring to life a colorful cast of characters, from eccentric hotel guests to friendly guides. Through these encounters, Stowe captures the unique charm and hospitality of the Southern hospitality culture.

Overall, Palmetto Leaves is a delightful travelogue that will appeal to readers interested in history, nature, and culture. Stowe's writing is engaging and insightful, making this book a timeless treasure for anyone looking to explore the beauty of Florida through the eyes of one of America's most beloved authors.

Book Description:
After the Civil War, Harriet and her husband Charles bought an Orange Plantation in Mandarin, on the upper east coast of Florida, where they lived during the winter months. Over the years they expanded their cottage to accommodate many guests . They opened schools to educate and churches to care for the recently freed negros pouring into Florida seeking refuge and opportunity. These charming essays, each describing a largely undeveloped rural land, became one of the first travel guides written about Florida and stimulated the first boom of tourism and residential development to that area. Stow describes its waterways, flora and fauna, the generosity of the people, the lush abundance of flowers, farmer's efforts to develop crops, Negro relations with whites, correspondence with famous persons, etc. - Summary by Michele Fry


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