Aaltje of Aurora, Indiana: 1773-1819
by Bonnie L. Schermer
Category: Fiction

Aaltje Hendrickson, the Dutch housemaid, is seduced in 1797 by Richard Norris, the spoiled son of her wealthy employer. She marries Richard, and spends her life bearing his children and keeping his household. When he moves his family from New Jersey to Indiana in 1811, there is no choice for Aaltje but to accompany him, making the best of earthquakes, bizarre weather, and disease. When Richard with others establishes the new town of Aurora, Indiana, he dedicates it as a monument to his wife. Written as fiction, this story is built on the genealogy of the Norris and Hendrickson families, as well as the history of the times. It is the second of three books comprising a Norris family saga. It is an inspiring woman's story of everyday courage.