History comes alive through the eyes of 18 generations of the Fitch family from 1466-1984. The author uses family stories and historical research to help us imagine the lives, times, hopes, dreams and struggles of those living in each generation. Experience what life was like during the Puritan revival in England and the bold decision of James Fitch to make the perilous ocean crossing at age 16 to become a student under the illustrious Thomas Hooker who is known as the "father of Connecticut." Take an in-depth look at the life of James Fitch as he journeys into the wilderness to become a co-founder of Norwich, Connecticut and the spiritual leader of his community and the state. Meet Major John Mason, father-in-law of James and a fearless military and political leader of the colony of Connecticut. Read about the infamous raid on the Indian fort in Mystic Connecticut that caused him to be revered as a hero by the colonists. And learn how his reputation has changed in our day because of the massive bloodshed. Explore James Fitch and his relationship with the Mohegan chief or Sachem, Uncas, who allied with the Colonists. The two often marched together into battles against hostile Indian tribes. Yet they personally clashed when it came to the question of whether Uncas ever embraced Christianity or whether he pretended to convert for the sake of an advantageous alliance with the British who had horses and guns. After James you will meet Fitch family members who participated in the Revolutionary War and explore the vital role the local militias played in supporting Washington's army. You'll find out the surprising reason Ephraim Fitch voted against ratification of the Constitution of the United Sates. You'll journey with generation after generation of hardy Fitch men and women who settled the frontiers in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York and Minnesota. And finally, you will meet the more recent generations who have stories that create the backbone of our country with lives lived in small towns, growing cities working blue collar jobs. Through them we will experience the Great Depression and World War II and the prosperity of the 1950's and 1960's. .