A Scattered People

November 4, 1991
This extended familial autobiography follows five generations as they drift increasingly westward, representing on a small scale the movement of the American people. According to PW , McFarland ``is aided in the project by his graceful, fluid writing and his careful scholarship.''

September 15, 1985
In this well-written volume, McFarland follows the descendants of five colonial families as they meet and marry, sharing "dreams of purity or dreams of plenty" while slowly but steadily pushing towards California. Their stories are typical of countless families who traveled west during the 1800s, seeking to do God's work and find their fortune. More frequently, they found disappointment and hardship. This is a thoroughly researched, objective work, full of fascinating historical detail. It is especially valuable for the insight it provides into the way ordinary Americans of the 19th century experienced and confronted the issues and concerns of their time. Recommended. Frank Schroth, Technology Training Assocs., Cambridge, Mass.