Joanne Brand

A Daughter's Wages Joanne Brand

Ten-year-old Isabella stood on the street and watched Papa drive away in his wagon. He ordered her to find work-he'd come every week to collect her pay. Where and how was Isabella to find work? Dust from the passing horses drifted her way while fear engulfed her. It was 1889 and Yankton, South Dakota was a scary city to her, a farm child. That day began Isabella's lonely life with no more schooling, no Mama or family, no friends, and no one to guide her. As the years passed Papa refused to leave one penny for her needs. She was obedient or a whipping resulted. This is the story of a girl who lived through historical times such as the Wounded Knee massacre, the Silver Act, Gay Nineties, railroad receiverships, as well as the financial crash and depression of 1893. Isabella had determination and could only put her trust in the Lord to help her.