The Seeds of the Prairie

The Seeds of the Prairie, is the story of three Prussian families who emigrated to the U.S. in the 19th century. The Bechs traveled by wagon train to northeastern Nebraska in 1871, followed by the Meritzes in 1891. When the Getzmers came in 1895, they could not afford to homestead, and so they rented farmland near Winside. The majority of the story centers on the next generation, from 1912 until the beginning of the Great Depression.

The book includes historical information about the settling of the Norfolk/Hoskins/Winside areas and a description of the culture of farm life for the main characters. The main character is Lisetta, the author's mother, who told Fauneil stories of her own life, as well as that of her forbears.

The author relayed these stories in chapters, each centered upon a theme. Overall, the book is a love story of Gus and Minnie, the author's grandparents, and of Lisetta and Walter. Their personalities unfold as the tale is told: Gus is a successful farmer who appreciates both hard work and play. Minnie is determined in good times and stalwart when facing tragedy. Lisetta is a delightful youngster who grows into a lovely woman. From country school days until adulthood, she is attracted to Walter, an ambitious and innovative neighbor.