Most homes in the 1800's contained guest books or autograph books allowing visitors and friends to leave a note or a thank you to the hosts. The Engel guest book was usually kept by the front door sitting on top of the bible. The contents of these guest books are from the Nichols and Engel's homes in Wyanet, Illinois and Argentine, Kansas. The penmanship is really amazing and is some of the most artistic and elegant that I have ever seen. The passion and intensity in the poetic writings are a historical tribute to the character of the people of that era.
My Present Past
A genealogical experience
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Miscellaneous Info
Background Image: Edward J Engel Marseilles, Illinois July 09, 1878
You will find most of the guest book entries in the Cities, Towns and Counties section or in the individual biographies of the people for whom this site is dedicated to.
from Susan B Anthony, who visited Sarah "Sadie" Engel at Wyanet, Illinois on April 04, 1878. Ms. Anthony's influence can be seen with my great grandmother's involvement with the Women's Suffrage movement, The Order of Eastern Star and The Hawthorne Club in Argentine, Kansas in 1905