pineywoods

Insurance at Piney Woods, Copyright 1896

By Samuel H. Davis
Insurance at piney woods is a collection about the daily life of an insurance agent in the 1800’s.

This is a very curious book from three perspectives.  First, it’s a snapshot into the insurance business back in the late 1800’s.  There was a lot more concern over fires than there were today (fires were more commonplace I expect, and more likely to result in catastrophic loss).  Secondly, it’s a snapshot into society back then.  Sexism was rampant, and all manner of attitudes that would be considered anywhere between social gaffes to downright offensive today are prevalent throughout the book and presented as the de facto standard.  And thirdly it’s written by an outspoken insurance agent who’s not afraid to call a young fella from ‘head office’ a dandy.  Or the local miller a drunk.  Or whatever other name he decides applies best to anyone in this town.

Each article is a bite sized snapshot into the daily life of a vocal and opinionated salesperson from that time – well worth the read.

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