Bessie in Love and War

Elizabeth Allston Pringle (1845-1921) was raised in affluence in antebellum South Carolina, but after a war that wrecked her world, she and her family struggled to survive. Bessie—as she was called—left a widow in her thirties, single handedly took on the daunting task of managing two rice plantations on the Pee Dee River. Her extraordinary life is well known through her two famous books, A Woman Rice Planter and Chronicles of Chicora Wood, and yet her poignant love story is one she left largely incomplete in her published writings.

Bessie in Love and War explores that part of her life more intimately, as well as her wartime experiences, through her unpublished letters and diaries, revealing details about a long, unusual courtship, and a passionately happy marriage tragically cut short when her husband passed away at the age of thirty-four. His early, unexpected death was a devastating blow to her, but she found strength and courage through her faith, and went on to lead a remarkable and influential life as a planter and author.

Few historical figures embody perseverance and grace as profoundly as Bessie, navigating the challenges of wartime South Carolina and personal tragedy with unwavering determination. Her story serves as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of love in shaping a remarkable legacy.

Perfect for readers of historical literature, Southern history and heritage enthusiasts, and anyone inspired by true stories of grit and endurance, Bessie in Love and War invites you to journey through the untold chapters of a life that influenced generations. Experience history as never before—through the eyes of a woman whose courage defined an era.

Note: Also available in hardback edition at Amazon and IngramSpark.