Summary of Natchitoches Colonials, a Source Book: Censuses, Military Rolls & Tax Lists, 1722-1803 by Elizabeth Shown Mills and Ellie Lennon

Unearth the rich genealogical history of Natchitoches with this source book's censuses, military rolls, and tax lists from 1722-1803.

Welcome to Natchitoches Colonials, where history meets bureaucracy in a showdown so thrilling, it could make watching paint dry seem like an action flick! This isn't your typical page-turner, but if you've ever wanted to dive headfirst into the thrilling world of censuses, military rolls, and tax lists from 1722 to 1803, then grab your magnifying glass and prepare for the wild ride of genealogical research!

First off, let's talk about the censuses. You know, those wonderfully dry lists that tell you who lived where and how many chickens they owned (seriously, it's fascinating) during a time when a good Wi-Fi connection didn't exist. The book assembles various census records that can help family historians track down their ancestors faster than you can say "Did great-grandpa really own a pet alligator?"

Next on the buffet of historical delights are the military rolls. This section is where things get spicy - relatively. Here, you'll find the roll calls of those brave souls who fought for their beliefs and their right to complain about taxes. These military records are valuable for genealogy enthusiasts trying to unravel their pasts and piece together how they might be related to someone who may or may not have bravely defended their right to vote - ideal for family gatherings, right?

And, oh boy, let's not forget the tax lists. Yes, these gems provide a peek into who was paying their dues (and who wasn't) during the formative years of Natchitoches. Because nothing says "fun read" like someone's tax obligations in the 18th century! It's almost like a reality show where you can see who was living large and who was living off the land, dodging taxes like a pro.

So, as you meander through this source book like you're wandering through a historical theme park, remember that these records are not just lists; they are the building blocks of the past. The authors, Elizabeth Shown Mills and Ellie Lennon, have done a commendable job corralling all this bureaucracy into a format that researchers can navigate without needing to hire a guide.

In summary, Natchitoches Colonials is a veritable treasure trove for anyone with a quirk for genealogy or a burning desire to know who their ancestors were fighting and paying taxes to. It's meticulous, it's detailed, and for better or worse, it's an indelible part of American history. So, there you have it: a source book filled with records, lists, and just enough bureaucratic thrill to keep you coming back for more (or at least until the coffee runs out). Enjoy your journey through the fascinating world of past lives and economic transactions!

Maddie Page

Classics, bestsellers, and guilty pleasures-none are safe from my sarcastic recaps. I turn heavy reads into lighthearted summaries you can actually enjoy. Warning: may cause random outbursts of laughter while pretending to study literature.