Review of "The Prairie Remembers," by Janice Brozik Cerney

 Review of

The Prairie Remembers, by Janice Brozik Cerney

Four out of five stars

Homesteading in South Dakota

 Originally from Bohemia in the Empire of Austria-Hungary, Frank and Marie Brozik emigrated from Europe to the United States in 1902. After short stints in a couple of places, they established a homestead in eastern South Dakota. This is their story, from the decision to move across the ocean to making their life on the often unforgiving prairie. 

 As was the case for so many immigrants the reason for their move was a desire for land. With an increasing population, there was simply not enough land in most European countries so that all that wanted to farm could. With the liberal government policy regarding homesteading, moving to the United States gave them an opportunity to have a sizable farm. 

 At first they lived in a sod house with the bare minimum of furnishings and frills. Fortunately, the first years were ones where the rain was good, leading to excellent crops and an ability to expand. There were several neighbors that were also from Bohemia, so they were able to maintain a form of community. 

 As is always the case, the prairie was unforgiving, and they had to somehow survive drought and a plague of grasshoppers. It was a difficult time, but they had some reserves and so were able to stay in their home while some of their neighbors were forced to pack up and search for work elsewhere. 

 While this story features a specific family and their willingness to work very hard in making a life for themselves and a large family, it is also a common one. Stories about pioneers out on the prairie making a living working from sun to sun are always interesting. For that group of people did a great deal to make America a rich and prosperous country. Their history is something that should always be taught to the next generation.