Reflections on Big Spring is a thoughtfully researched, highly readable celebration of the rich heritage of the Genesee River Valley, Pittsford, NY and the Big Spring that drew generations of Americans to the area. The Seneca Tribe who lived in the Genesee River Valley for five centuries were the fighting elite of the Iroquois Confederacy. The author chronicles the series of seminal decisions that led to the gradual displacement and ultimate downfall of these proud indigenous people. New Englanders immigrated to the great frontier of western New York State in the early 19th century seeking the well-publicized "agricultural el dorado". These pioneers were of hearty stock and by nature, strong-willed risk-takers. From both of these sturdy gene pools came generations of brave war heroes, inspirational politicians, compassionate humanitarians, civil rights leaders, creative inventors, and revolutionary entrepreneurs. Their influence has been substantial not just locally but throughout the state, the country and the world. Follow the lives of resident humanitarians Frederick Douglas and Susan B. Anthony as their inspired civil rights efforts make history. Consider the courage displayed by lesser-known local heroes who farmed, taught school or ran stores during the day and became "conductors" on the area's Underground Railroad after dark. Oral histories of secret passages, tunnels, caverns and hidden rooms take readers on the "last 100 miles to freedom" ride. Seamlessly woven throughout the text are fascinating facts that define the uniqueness of the Genesee River Valley. While closely tied to its agricultural roots, the area is home to several of the world's most prestigious business enterprises and was the birthplace of a wide variety of revolutionary technologies, business strategies and labor-management practices. Discover how Genesee Valley residents shared amateur photography, xerography, the UPC label, self-service groceries, white hots and cream style mustard with the world.
David McNellis was born in Detroit, Michigan to Canadian parents. He graduated from Pittsford Central School in 1962. His interest in the area's past began when he was a resident in the 1960's. Intriguing historical anecdotes told by local teachers, merchants, farmers, barbers and bartenders prompted him to study the area's fascinating history and ultimately share his discoveries in this book.
Since earning a B. S. degree from Michigan State University and an MBA from the University of Oregon, he has lived and worked mainly on the west coast. He is the proud father of two remarkable young women and lives in San Carlos, California with his wife Erica. Reflections on Big Spring is his first book.
