Wicked Weird & Wily Yankees: A Celebration of New England's Eccentrics and Misfits

Wicked Weird & Wily Yankees is a book that explores and celebrates the eccentric personalities who have shaped New England, including the Leather Man, Old Darned Man, William Gillette, Madame Sherri, William Sheldon, and Moll Pitcher. It captures the rebel spirit, prickly demeanors, and wily attitudes that have made the region the hotbed for oddity it is today.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 01 May 2018
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

New England has been a multifaceted region, serving as an economic hub, cultural center, and sports mecca. However, it is also home to a remarkable array of eccentric individuals who have left an indelible mark on the history and culture of the area. Wicked Weird & Wily Yankees delves into and celebrates these unique personalities, offering a captivating exploration of the region's most peculiar denizens.

Within the pages of this book, readers will encounter a diverse cast of characters, some well-known and others less familiar. The motley crew that emerges represents a fascinating cross-section of New England's most peculiar residents. From tales of the Leather Man and the Old Darned Man, who spent years traversing the highways and byways of the northeast, to the magnificent homes of William Gillette and Madame Sherri, famed socialites who constructed enormous castles in the New England countryside, this book offers a glimpse into the lives and eccentricities of these remarkable individuals.

William Sheldon, a prominent figure in New England history, is known for his apocalyptic prophecies and wild claims. He believed that the American Revolution had hastened the end of the world and that he possessed the ability to prevent cholera across the eastern United States through his mastery of the "od-force." His prophecies and assertions captivated the public and inspired numerous works of literature, plays, and novels long after his death.

Another enigmatic character featured in Wicked Weird & Wily Yankees is Moll Pitcher, a fortune-teller who gained fame for her predictions. Some say that European royalty sought her counsel, and her fame extended beyond her lifetime, as her predictions were the subject of poems, plays, and novels. Moll Pitcher's legacy continues to intrigue and captivate people to this day.

The stories in this book span a remarkable period, from the colonial era to the beginning of the twenty-first century. They capture the rebellious spirit, prickly demeanors, and wily attitudes that have defined New England's character. The region has always been a hotbed for oddity, and this book serves as a testament to the unique individuals who have contributed to its charm and character.

In addition to its entertaining and informative content, Wicked Weird & Wily Yankees has a philanthropic aspect. All royalties generated from the sale of this book will be donated to the Education and Youth Programs at the Connecticut River Museum. The museum is dedicated to promoting education and awareness about the natural and cultural history of the Connecticut River Valley and its surrounding communities.

By purchasing this book, readers not only gain a deeper understanding of New England's eccentric past but also contribute to the betterment of the community. It is a win-win situation for all involved, as the proceeds will support educational initiatives that benefit the region's youth and future generations.

In conclusion, Wicked Weird & Wily Yankees is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the eccentricities and personalities that have shaped New England's history and culture. This book offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of remarkable individuals who have left an indelible mark on the region. Whether you are a resident of New England or a curious outsider, this book will captivate and inspire you with its tales of rebellion, demeanors, and wily attitudes. So, grab a copy and prepare to be transported to a world where oddity reigns supreme!

Weight: 452g
Dimension: 152 x 227 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781493032662