Naomi "Omie" Wise: Her Life, Death and Legend

In 1807, Naomi Omie Wise was drowned by her lover in the Deep River of North Carolina, and her murder has been remembered in ballad and story for over two centuries. This book, written by descendants of those who knew Naomi Wise or were involved in her murder investigation, sheds light on the plight of impoverished women in early America and details the fascinating inner workings of the Piedmont North Carolina Quaker community that cared for her in her final years and kept her memory alive.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 277 pages
Publication date: 07 October 2022
Publisher: McFarland & Co Inc

In 1807, a tragic incident occurred in the waters of North Carolina's Deep River, where Naomi Omie Wise met her untimely demise at the hands of her lover. Over the course of two centuries, her murder has been etched into the annals of ballad and story, captivating the hearts and imaginations of many. However, the passage of time has brought about the infusion of errors, romanticization, and misremembering, blurring the line between reality and fiction. The authors of this book, whose family has resided in the Deep River area since the 18th century, are direct descendants of numerous individuals who either knew Naomi Wise or played a role in the investigation into her murder.

This book serves as a poignant narrative, shedding light on the betrayal experienced by a young woman and how her tragic death paved the way for the folk traditions that commemorate her today. It delves into the hardships faced by impoverished women in early America, providing a revealing glimpse into the inner workings of the Piedmont North Carolina Quaker community. These Quakers, who cared for Naomi in her final years and ensured that her memory lived on, played a pivotal role in shaping the narrative surrounding her tragic story.

Through meticulous research and a deep understanding of the local history, the authors have crafted a narrative that is both captivating and informative. They have uncovered previously unknown details about Naomi's life and the circumstances surrounding her murder, providing a fresh perspective on this historical event. The book also explores the societal and cultural implications of Naomi's story, highlighting the challenges faced by women in a patriarchal society and the power of community in preserving memories and honoring the lives of those who have passed.

In conclusion, "Naomi's Murder: A Tale of Betrayal and Folk Traditions" is a captivating and informative book that delves into the tragic story of Naomi Omie Wise and the enduring legacy she has left behind. Through meticulous research and a deep understanding of the local history, the authors have crafted a narrative that sheds light on the plight of impoverished women in early America and the fascinating inner workings of the Piedmont North Carolina Quaker community. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in history, folklore, and the power of community to remember and honor the lives of those who have passed.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781476690131