This month marks one year of researching my book. I no longer remember what spurred me to write an entire book except that a very distant cousin began emailing me transcripts from the Verdon Vedette at Jesse’s first pastorate. Forever will I be grateful for his help.
Initially, this was supposed to be a tiny, 10-page project meant for family members. We did not know anything about Reverend Jesse Lee Fisher. I dug up so much information. I have 6 binders’ worth of printed newspaper articles, vital records, printouts from trade journals, you name it. I have purchased, legally downloaded, or borrowed from my library (or ILL) at least 35-40 books meant to serve as background for this project. (Gilead by Marilynne Robinson was the first I picked up. Fostering on the Farm by Dr. Megan Birk has got to be the saddest.)
When I reflect on the past year, I am amazed at how much information I have obtained. I went down multiple rabbit holes (not all proved fruitful.) My favorite recent rabbit hole is the discovery that my great-great-great grandfather purchased land from the Interlachen Winter Resort Company in Putnam County, Florida back in 1889. (Florida used to be known for its mineral springs!)
In several cases, I went down rabbit holes just to confirm dead ends. I no longer know whether to be relieved or disappointed by dead ends. I feel both frustrated and overjoyed when I reach one. (When it’s relief, “At present, there is no documentation…” is a favorite placeholder.) Poor record-keeping is almost always the reason for a dead end, closely followed by lack of import.
Who keeps sermons written by rural, fourth-rate ministers? Exactly.
Thank you, followers, for sticking with me on this journey.
kellyekosanda 