Tag Archives: research

PART 2: WHEN FACTS AREN’T FACTS Historical Writing Pitfalls and What to Do

As a child, I saw Frog legs listed on the menu. Horrified, I could only imagine the little frog’s pain from having the legs torn off. Mother comforted me by saying, “They grow back.” Truly? No way. But to this … Continue reading

Posted in Pen Points | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

WHEN FACTS AREN’T FACTS AND ASSUMPTIONS ARE FAULTY Historical Writing Pitfalls and What to Do: Part I

A DIFFERENT TIME AND PLACE I write historical stories and constantly worry I’ve overlooked something. Most likely, I have. Anachronistic traps hide everywhere. I hadn’t realized pre-colonial Maryland indentured servants went barefooted because shoes costs too much, or Governor Calvert … Continue reading

Posted in Pen Points | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

DEODAND: A THING THAT MUST BE OFFERED . . . .

Left-overs from my historical-biography novel research. The year, 1637: Poor John Briant, lies there crumpled in the dirt, bleeding with cuts and scratches. His body has become a broken bulk. Poor, poor John is now quite dead. Who killed John? … Continue reading

Posted in Pen Points | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

What Walking Tells About You.

The walking gait of your ancestors frequently indicated their vocation or place in society. A townsman might demonstrate a quickness of step and there’s the gentleman’s swagger. Yet the sheepherder needs a lithe or nimble stride compared to the flatfooted … Continue reading

Posted in Pen Points | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

IS THIS TRIP WORTH TAKING?

Would you sail on this ship across the ocean? This replica of the Dove sailed the Atlantic Ocean in 1634, accompanying a larger ship, the Ark. Used as a supply ship and a scouting vessel in more shallow waters, the … Continue reading

Posted in Pen Points | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment