Oshkosh Remembered

<p>Following a short presentation about a book I had recently written stories that occurred in the early part of the 20th century many in the audience asked what life was like living in Oshkosh during this time. I managed to answer a few but only partially and was disappointed I was unable to provide a clearer picture of our city's past.</p><p>I knew I needed to find out more about our earlier years so I once again explored books and articles to help me understand more of our past. I eventually came across a story about the Underground Railroad and after reading part of the story I wondered if runaway slaves seeking freedom sought refuge in Oshkosh. My research for the most part went unfulfilled as few records were kept due to the passage of a federal law making it illegal to assist the enslaved.</p><p>But knowing that other national events played a role in shaping our city I continued exploring our early history during the pre-Civil War years and beyond and found stories I thought would help provide a fuller understanding of Oshkosh and its history. </p>