Bobbie Kalman's acclaimed Historic Communities Series provides a close-up view of how people lived more than two hundred years ago. Colorful photos, many taken by Bobbie Kalman herself at restored historic villages across the country, help support the fascinating information. Children will have fun learning about: -- early homes and the settler community-- what people wore and the crafts they made-- how settlers made their living-- how they spent their leisure time-- the values, customs, and traditions of the early settlersYoung readers will discover why towns often sprang up around The General Store which was the heart of the community. Goods were bought and traded, local news was reported, and people met to discuss weather, crops and gossip. Lively photos and interesting text feature: -- items sold such as food, clothing, and farm equipment-- the role of the storekeeper who was also the postmaster, banker, and lawyer-- forms of payment used and the system of record keeping