Reviewed by Vicki Carver

Lois Anne Williams is a longtime resident of Highland County who has been a published author for many years. In the past two years Williams has had two books published, Legacy of Courage and Legacy of Love. Both books are a fictionalized account of the history of Highland County and are centered on the Wehler family who left North Carolina in 1805 to begin a new life in the hills of Highland County. Legacy of Courage tells of the family’s struggles to adapt to a new land filled with danger and uncertainty. With their strong Christian faith, the Wehler family is able to face many struggles and tragedies as they build a new life on Ohio.

Legacy of Love begins in 1844 as Adam Wehler is about to marry Lucy Woodman. Adam had been born soon after his parents had arrived in Highland County in 1805 and had taken over his father’s successful lumber mill. He had also built a beautiful brick home which Lucy is happy to live in as his wife.

The Wehlers become a highly respected family who uphold their Christian faith. They are thrilled to welcome their first son Matthew into the world followed by three more children who complete their family and are the focus of the story.

One interesting aspect of Legacy of Love is Williams’ ability to integrate the plot with actual historical events and changes which were occurring in Ohio during the time the story occurred. Adam and Lucy visit other family members in Cincinnati and observe the rapid growth taking place, especially along the waterfront. Their son Matthew enlists to fight in the Civil War and is stationed on Johnson’s Island, a dreadful prison for Confederate soldiers on Lake Erie. The development of the railway system in Ohio enables the Wehler family to travel much faster from place to place than using a horse and buggy.

Also interesting is reading of the development of Highland County during the mid-1800’s. Families were moving into this area at a rapid pace to begin farming, develop commercial endeavors and enjoy their beautiful surroundings.

There is a strong Christian influence in Legacy of Love which is pervasive throughout the book. The Wehler family practices their faith, both in their relationships within their family and with others as well. Legacy of Love contains both tragedy and triumph which the Wehlers are able to face with courage and love.