Reviewing "The Way of Improvement Leads Home"

Patron's Perspective

Last summer, Maria Fisher came to hear former David Library fellow John Fea talk about his book, The Way of Improvement Leads Home: Philip Fithian Vickers and the Rural Enlightenment in Early America. Maria just finished reading the book and wanted to share her perspective with others.

Patrick Spero

Last summer there was a lecture at the David Library featuring John Fea and his book, "The Way of Improvement Leads Home." It was not as well attended as some of the other lectures maybe because it was held in July. I just wanted to recommend this book for those who may have missed out. It's about Philip Vickers Fithian's life and rural enlightenment in Early America. One gets the sense of how radical and important the changes were in that period of history through the life and mind of an ordinary man. In addition, it's a beautiful story. It comes at a perfect time as many Americans seem to be losing touch with what makes us uniquely American.

Maria Fisher

Have something you want to share, such as a question, research find, or a personal story about the Library? Email Will Tatum at tatum@dlar.org