As an author entrenched in the world of historical fiction, my journey often leads me through the dusty corridors of old libraries, where whispers of the past wait to be heard. On one such voyage, I stumbled upon a true historical gem – “History of Jackson County, Iowa, Vol. I” by Hon. James Whitcomb Ellis, a publication from 1910 that became one of many cornerstones in the creation of my novel “A Profitable Wife.”

A Time Machine in Book Form

Ellis’s book is not just a study; it’s a time machine. Born in 1848 and later serving as a representative in the Iowa General Assemblies, Ellis brings both a scholarly eye and a personal touch to his work. His detailed chronicles offer not just historical facts but a vivid panorama of Jackson County’s evolution – from its geography to the early settlers and Native American history.

A Key Element of “A Profitable Wife”

My novel sprang to life from whispered family tales about the hair-raising saga of Easter Conklin and her sons, Aminadab and Elijah, who stood accused of the grisly murder of William Conklin in Otter Creek. This story, deeply rooted in family anecdotes, finds a factual anchor in the writings of Ellis. His narrative offers a chillingly detailed account of the events, masterfully bringing to life the era’s atmosphere and social nuances.

Ellis’s Insightful Narrative

Ellis’s portrayal of the era was invaluable in crafting the backdrop for “A Profitable Wife.” His insights into community dynamics, legal proceedings, and everyday life of the settlers enriched my depiction of Easter Conklin’s world. The detailed depiction of Jackson County’s transformation over the years allowed me to construct a narrative that is both historically accurate and richly imaginative.

A Must-Read for History Buffs

For anyone fascinated by the history of Jackson County or Iowa’s past, Ellis’s book is a treasure trove. It reminds us of the countless untold stories resting in history’s shadows, waiting to be rediscovered by curious minds.

An Excerpt from his narrative:

“In 1856 there was living on the banks and near the mouth of Lytle’s Creek, in Farmers Creek township, a family by the name of Conklin, consisting of William Conklin, his wife and a large family of children, several of them grown up.  (…)
     On or about the 1^st day of October, 1856, the neighborhood was thrown into consternation and excitement by the report that Conklin had been murdered by his wife, assisted by his sons, Aminadab and Elijah.  The accused parties were arrested and indicted by the grand jury for the crime of murder.  We will insert a copy herein of the indictment to show how such instruments were drawn fifty years ago.”  (read more here: History of Jackson County, Iowa – James Whitcomb Ellis, Vol. I, 254 )

“A Profitable Wife” takes readers on a journey through the epoch of American expansion, from the aftermath of the War of 1812 through to the turbulent years before the Civil War. Through the eyes of Easter Conklin, we experience the burgeoning nation’s growth, the fierce political debates of the era, and the indomitable human spirit that forged the United States’ identity.

Christensen’s narrative promises a journey filled with romance, jealousy, and a murder that echoes through the annals of American history.

‘A Profitable Wife,’ is now available on Amazon and other online book retailers.