This new socio-historical study explores the dynamics of growing up female in the second half of the nineteenth century--a time when traditional patriarchal standards were beginning to be questioned by small groups of courageous reformers. Donnelly chronicles the lives of middle class and working women--white and black--from childhood to old age, the hardships they endured, their daily activities and their concerns, pleasures, and accomplishments.

This new socio-historical study explores the dynamics of growing up female in the second half of the nineteenth century--a time when traditional patriarchal standards were beginning to be questioned by small groups of courageous reformers. Donnelly chronicles the lives of middle class and working women--white and black--from childhood to old age, the hardships they endured, their daily activities and their concerns, pleasures, and accomplishments.