The Old Peabody Pew

The Old Peabody Pew is a play by Kate Douglas Smith Wiggin. Essentially a Christmas romance; where the country church of Buxton plays a pivotal role in bringing people together.

The Old Peabody Pew is written by Kate Douglas Wiggin. The story begins with the Dorcas Society, being female and possessed of notions regarding comfort and beauty, generally disapproved of making any impious alterations in a tabernacle, chapel, temple, or other building used for worship. This sentiment had been maintained for a quarter of a century but was especially strong in the old Tory Hill Meeting House. Every pew in the old Meeting House was scrubbed by members of the Ladies' Christian Temperance Society. "When men lose their wives, they lose their wits," said the Widow Buzzell. "If there's anything duller than cookin' three meals a day for yourself, and eatin' them by yourself, I'd like to know it!". A bird without a song stood in for Nancy Peabody's love each year. Since that gloomy day in November when Justin said goodbye, the months had seemingly never ended. If she had openly pledged to him, she could have waited twice ten years.

"The Old Peabody Pew", by Kate Douglas Wiggin. Kate Douglas Wiggin was american educator and author of children's stories (1856-1923).

"The Old Peabody Pew: A Christmas Romance of a Country Church" by Kate Douglas Wiggin is a heartwarming and nostalgic tale set in a quaint New England village during the holiday season. The story revolves around the beloved Peabody Pew, a cherished old church bench that has witnessed generations of worshipers and holds countless memories. The narrative unfolds through the eyes of the protagonist, a young woman named Penelope, who fondly recalls her childhood days spent in the village and the church. The Peabody Pew plays a central role in her recollections, as it was where she and her family sat every Sunday to attend services. As the story progresses, Penelope reminisces about the diverse cast of characters who occupied the Peabody Pew over the years. Each person who sat on the bench left their mark on it, sharing their joys, sorrows, and prayers. The pew serves as a symbol of community, unity, and the enduring spirit of the church. Amidst the holiday festivities, Penelope reflects on her own experiences and the significant events that have occurred in the church, from weddings and baptisms to funerals and Christmas celebrations. The memories of the Peabody Pew evoke a sense of nostalgia and the passage of time. One Christmas Eve, as the congregation gathers for the traditional service, a heartwarming surprise awaits Penelope as she reunites with old friends and loved ones. The story beautifully captures the spirit of Christmas and the power of love, forgiveness, and reconciliation. Kate Douglas Wiggin's enchanting storytelling transports readers to a bygone era and paints a vivid picture of small-town life, community values, and the significance of cherished traditions. Through the tale of the Peabody Pew, the author conveys timeless messages of compassion, forgiveness, and the true meaning of Christmas. "The Old Peabody Pew" is a touching and delightful Christmas romance that showcases the enduring magic of the holiday season and the importance of cherishing our shared history and connections with others."

Reproduction of the original. The publishing house Megali specialises in reproducing historical works in large print to make reading easier for people with impaired vision.

"The Old Peabody Pew" is a novella written by Kate Douglas Smith Wiggin, an American author known for her works in children's literature. The book was first published in 1907 and is considered a classic of American literature. Unlike her more famous work, "Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm," this novella is more of a reflective and nostalgic piece rather than a children's story. The story is set in a New England village and is narrated by the church pew itself, which has witnessed generations of congregants. The Old Peabody Pew has been a silent observer of the community's joys, sorrows, and spiritual experiences. As it recounts its long history, it offers a glimpse into the lives of the various people who have occupied it over the years. The central focus of the novella is the romance between two characters, young lovers Theodora and Tilly. Their story unfolds within the context of their experiences at the village church, where the Old Peabody Pew plays a significant role as the place where they sit during services. The pew's perspective allows readers to see how Theodora and Tilly's relationship evolves and how it intertwines with the life of the church and the broader community. Wiggin's narrative in "The Old Peabody Pew" is characterized by its nostalgic and sentimental tone, evoking a sense of the past and the enduring nature of tradition. The novella explores themes of love, faith, community, and the passage of time. It reflects on the changing dynamics of a small-town society and the way people's lives are interconnected within the framework of a church and a shared history. While "The Old Peabody Pew" may not be as well-known as some of Kate Douglas Wiggin's other works, it remains a valuable piece of literature for its evocative storytelling and its ability to capture the essence of a bygone era. It provides a glimpse into the life and culture of a New England village and the enduring power of human connection through the lens of a seemingly ordinary church pew.