Oxford Past
Oxford, New Haven, Connecticut
 
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Magazine." In addition, she edited a magazine published by her husband, "The Brother Jonathan," a weekly journal.
    In 1850 she went to Europe for two years, visiting most of the countries of Europe.
    Her first novel, "Fashion and Famine," became a favorite in 1855.
    In 1860 her previously published story - "Malaska, the Indian Wife of the White Hunter," was reissued as the first of the "Beadles Dime Novels," a precursor for today's paperback novels. The story has been a serial in the "Lady's Companion." She was paid $250 for republication rights.
    Edward Stephens died in 1862, leaving her with two children to support. By that time she was an established literary figure. She spent her winters in Washington D.C., becoming personally acquainted with presidents and with other national leaders such as Henry Clay and Daniel Webster.
    She died August, 1886 in Newport, Rhode Island. Seymour was used as the background for some of her works. The opening scenes of "Bertha's Engagement," and the story of "Malvina Gray" are laid in Seymour. "The Gold Brick" describes localities and characters of old Seymour.

Chapter 13

THE CIVIL WAR IN THE VALLEY

    Just as residents of area towns took part in the American Revolution, their descendants took an active role in the Civil
War. Many of those who served were volunteers, leaving for the front lines as soon as war was opened at Fort Sumter.
    As the war progressed and the need for draftees was felt, Valley communities aided in getting the necessary men by offering bounties for enlistment, in order that the communities might meet the quota without resorting to drafting.
    Oxford had about 105 men who served in the Civil War with about 21 fatalities. Seymour had about 151 men who

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