The Witch Diggers

Jessamyn West (1902-1984) was an American author who wrote stories based on her Quaker ancestors.  Her most well-known book was The Friendly Persuasion which was published in 1945 and later made into a movie with Gary Cooper.

This novel is the story of the family of a man who idealistically leaves his law practice to become the Superintendent of a county poorhouse in southern Indiana. Set in the 19th century, the author develops the characters in ways that give us insight into the day-to-day lives of those who lived in poorhouses -- both the folks who are inmates, supervisors and visitors. This backdrop (which will be of special interest to readers of this website) is only secondary to the skillful telling of stories of the lives of these fascinating people.

PHL

Return to POORHOUSE LITERATURE               HOME