"A Hoosier Chronicle" by Meredith Nicholson is a classic work of Midwestern literature that transports readers to the heart of Indiana, capturing the essence of small-town life and the dynamics of Hoosier culture. As a piece of historical fiction, Nicholson intricately weaves together the fabric of rural America, offering readers a glimpse into the social changes and political intrigues that shaped the American Midwest. Set against the backdrop of Indiana, this family saga delves into the intricacies of community dynamics and regionalism, painting a vivid portrait of life in a small Midwestern town. Through the lens of various characters and their experiences, Nicholson explores themes of social change and the evolving landscape of the American Midwest. As one of the literary classics of Midwestern literature, "A Hoosier Chronicle" stands as a timeless testament to the enduring spirit of the Hoosier culture and the rich tapestry of life in rural America. With its compelling narrative and insightful portrayal of small-town dynamics, Nicholson's novel continues to captivate readers and provide a window into the history and heritage of the American heartland.
Meredith Nicholson (December 9, 1866 - December 21, 1947) was an American politician, diplomat, and best-selling author from Indiana. Nicholson was born on December 9, 1866, in Crawfordsville, Indiana, to Edward Willis Nicholson and the former Emily Meredith. Nicholson, who was largely self-taught, began his newspaper career at the Indianapolis Sentinel in 1884. He moved to the Indianapolis News the next year, where he stayed until 1897. He wrote Short Flights in 1891 and continued to write poetry and prose until 1928. Nicholson joined the Democratic Party in 1928 and served on the Indianapolis City Council for two years. He progressed through the ranks of the Democratic Party, earning assignments as envoys to Paraguay, Venezuela, and Nicaragua. Nicholson married first Eugenie Clementine Kountze, Herman Kountze's daughter, and then Dorothy Wolfe Lannon, from whom he eventually divorced. Nicholson died in Indianapolis on December 21, 1947, at the age of 81, and was interred in Crown Hill Cemetery.
