Middle Ground Books will host author SC Fowler for a discussion and signing of his new historical novel “Bound and Determined: The White Slave of Oryza Hope Plantation.”
The book unveils the early life of John Fowler, one of Lyon County’s pioneering settlers. The event is scheduled for 5:30 – 7 p.m. Nov. 6 at the bookstore located at 606 Commercial St.
The novel, published by Palmetto Publishing, tells the story of young Johnny Fowler in 1815 Charleston, South Carolina. After being coerced into working on the Oryza Hope Plantation alongside enslaved people, Johnny faces numerous hardships including daily abuse and dangerous conditions while separated from his family. The story chronicles his struggle for survival and his quest to reunite with his mother and siblings who had relocated to North Carolina.
This previously untold chapter of local history takes on special significance as John Fowler later became a prominent Lyon County settler, arriving from Indiana in 1855 at age 56 with twelve of his children. His journey from an orphaned apprentice in South Carolina to a Kansas pioneer reflects themes of resilience and determination that shaped the region’s early development.
The author, SC Fowler, who developed his passion for literature at an early age, now resides in Iowa following a career in the transportation industry. Local history enthusiasts and descendants of Lyon County settlers are particularly encouraged to attend the event.
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