Reading Friday, October 23, 2009

The first Sedgwick came to Charlestown, Massachusetts, in 1635. His sons cleared the New England forest, and sent their grandsons into Washington's army to create a new nation, and into the first government to establish its politics. And ever since, Sedgwick descendants have fought in the country's wars, served in its administrations, and more. Despite fits of derangement, and worse, they have helped create national fashions, set off national tempests, well through the rebellious sixties and into the present. It was here that I needed to look, if only because it was here where I could see. For the Sedgwick story is the story of America.


Photo credit: Harper Collins