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History Post-confederation (1867-)

A Mill Behind Every Stump

The Okanagan Trail of 1858–68 and Its Origins in Washington and British Columbia

by (author) Marianne Osch

Publisher
Heritage House Publishing
Initial publish date
May 2018
Category
Post-Confederation (1867-), Social History, General
  • eBook

    ISBN
    9781772031171
    Publish Date
    May 2018
    List Price
    $15.99

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Description

The story of one family's settlement in the Cariboo and the culture of early sawmills that developed around them.

In 1922, the Judson family arrived in the Cariboo by covered wagon. The stories of their life on the remote homestead at Ruth Lake is told through this humorous and heartwarming book by local historian and author Marianne Van Osch, as recounted to her by the Judsons' son, Louis, who still lives in the region. Louis tells of working at a gold mine in Bralorne at a young age, riding the rails, losing his foot in a milling accident, and witching for gold and water. But most of all, he tells the story of early sawmills in Cariboo forests, in an era before chainsaws and skidders, how they flourished and how they declined, and the men who worked so hard on them, often at great personal cost.

About the author

Marianne Van Osch is a Cariboo-based author and former teacher. Her work explores the experience of pioneers who grew up on remote homesteads when survival was a daily challenge, when neighbours were few and far between, and when mail service a full day's walk from home. Van Osch also contributes stories of local and historical interest to the 100 Mile Free Press and various magazines; visits elementary schools for interactive historical presentations; and presents short story and book readings.

Marianne Osch's profile page