River at the Door: Unusual Experiences in Isolated Areas

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Summary: History along the Mid-Mississippi
Review: Allen Anthony has researched and studied records of long ago events that shaped the development and future of life along the Mississippi River: from southern Illinois, Kentucky, Missouri to Tennessee, bringing to life the nature of the inhabitants and the lifestyles of the residents. He relates the curious and erroneous manner of survey which shaped the states' borders and created unusual geographical circumstances. He tells of areas in and along the river that were changed by floods and nature over the last 150 years and explains some of the dilemmas which still exist involving property disputes between several states. The reader learns about navigation along this part of the river and how it remains a difficult but much used route of commerce even now. For those with some connection to the area, the book provides a valuable source of historical information which they can relate to. His description of the "islands" in the river and how they have been carved and shaped by the forces of the river along with how the families that have owned and farmed them have managed to live on the islands and still be a part of the nearby mainland is fascinating. The existence of the "islands" is little known outside of this mid-south region and many long time residents of this area are uninformed about them. A great read and resouce for those who love the river.