12 Comments
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Denyse Allen's avatar

I really really enjoyed this. Telling me upfront it was fiction and then having the facts at the end, actually invited me to think more deeply about this man and his life. This kind of family history really opens the past better than any history book could.

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Kirsi Dahl's avatar

Wow. Thank you so much for this note. These words from you mean a lot.

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Lori Olson White's avatar

Couldn’t agree more - the formatting and structure was spot on - the best of both worlds! Great job @Kirsi!

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Kirsi Dahl's avatar

Thanks! This is the second story I’ve written about an imagined day in the life of an ancestor (based on genealogical insights). I’ve enjoyed doing it.

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Paula Delesha's avatar

I can see this.

"The forge’s fire cast a flickering glow through the open door, the rhythmic clang of hammer on metal ringing through the air."

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Carole McCulloch's avatar

Great story capturing the scenes vividly and peeking inside the mind of this Prussian soldier as he begins his new journey.

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Kirsi Dahl's avatar

Thanks Carole!

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Paul Burrill's avatar

Your writing is fantastic, you weave such a graphic story. We picture him riding into town, can see the street, the hitching post, see him tie the reins, walk in to vote. Amazing gift you have.

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Kirsi Dahl's avatar

Thanks so much, Paul. I've missed hearing about your adventures in writing. I hope you'll be sharing them soon! You have great stories.

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Lori Olson White's avatar

Having grown up in MN, I remember being told our troops were the first to answer Lincoln’s call - definitely a point of pride, but it also meant heavy casualties early on. Was Thomas a replacement, do you know?

Great storytelling that leaves me wanting the next chapters.

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Kirsi Dahl's avatar

Thanks Lori! I appreciate the compliment. I am working on a story about Thomas’ war experience. He did volunteer for the cavalry, surprisingly!

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Emma - Journeys into Genealogy's avatar

A vivid description of Thomas, Kirsi

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