Shirley B. Carvatt
Following the success of the Erie Canal many towpath canals were constructed throughout the United States. This colorful era became an important link in America's evolving transportation network. The Morris Canal, the canal that climbed the mountains of northern New Jersey, was part of that network.
The author parallels its history with that of a family representing the canal workers, their joys, sorrows, and aspirations. It also is a story that bridges the past and the present, hopefully providing lessons for the future.
The author, a retired teacher, resides with her Golden Retriever, Noreen, in the beautiful rolling hills of western New Jersey.
A sense of excitement gripped Karen as she negotiated the turn into Port Travis Road. And when the Tracy house eventually appeared, her throat tightened as tears of joy welled in her eyes.
“It’s so lovely,” she thought, as she parked in the driveway and looked it over once again. “What stories you could tell, House, about all the folks who ever lived here,” she whispered.
