The Stagecoach
There is a reason they call writing a ‘journey’!
Researching Stagecoach Stations
Have you ever wondered where the ‘stagecoach’ got its name?
Stagecoaches traveled from stop to stop so drivers could change exhausted horses and allow passengers to stretch, purchase food and drink, or take care of personal needs. The stagecoach stations were typically spaced 10 to 50 miles apart.
“Whenever the stage stopped to change horses, we would wake up, and try to recollect where we were – and succeed – and in a minute or two the stage would be off again, and we likewise.” Mark Twain – Roughing It.
“Along the many stage routes, stations were established about every 12 miles that included two types of stations — “swing” and “home.” As the stage driver neared the station, they would blow a small brass bugle or trumpet to alert the station staff of the impending arrival.
The larger stations, called “Home Stations,” generally run by a couple or family, were usually about 50 miles apart and provided passengers with meager meals and overnight lodging. However, “lodging” was often no more than a dirt floor.
These stations also included stables where the horses could be changed, a blacksmith and repair shop, and a telegraph station. Here, drivers were usually switched.
The more numerous “swing” stations, generally run by a few bachelor stock tenders, were smaller and usually consisted of little more than a small cabin and a barn or corral. The coach would stop for about ten minutes to change the team and allow passengers to stretch.” (excerpt from Stagecoaches of the American West.)
Ernest Hemingway once said, “There is nothing to writing. All you do is sit down at a typewriter and bleed.”
Write first; edit last.
Writing without stopping and editing later is incredibly valuable. This technique, often called “free writing,” lets you express your thoughts, ideas, and emotions without worrying about self-criticism or perfectionism. Just let the words flow onto the page and tap into your creativity.
The beauty of writing without stopping and editing later is that it encourages uninhibited self-expression. You can ignore your inner critic and write from your gut. This process allows for exploring ideas that might have stayed hidden otherwise. Plus, it gives you a sense of freedom because you don’t have to worry about making it perfect right away.
Another great thing about writing without stopping and editing later is the continuous flow of ideas. By avoiding edits and revisions, you keep the momentum going. This leads to a more cohesive and natural piece of writing. It’s especially helpful when you’re facing writer’s block and need a boost of creativity.
Furthermore, writing without stopping and editing later is a powerful tool for self-discovery and reflection. It helps you access your deepest thoughts and emotions. This unfiltered expression can lead to valuable insights and personal growth.
To sum it up, writing without stopping and editing later is all about embracing uninhibited self-expression, keeping ideas flowing, and discovering more about yourself. So grab a pen and let your thoughts run wild on the page!
Cost
$15.oo per hundred miles and another $5.00 if you were packing a trunk.
Time
5-8 miles an hour, on average, depending on the condition of the road, terrain, or weather.
Comfort
There was none.
The Stagecoach
“We began to feel cramped, the heat of the sun made us hot and irritable: and not only was there a difficulty about stowing away one”s feet, but we had even to fit in our knees one with another, and then occasionally give and take pretty smart blows caused by the jostling of the carriage. Most of the men chewed tobacco, and those who occupied centre seats had to exert considerable skill to spit clear of the other passengers. Americans are generally adepts in this art, but we had one or two unskilful professors, although it must be admitted that they had hardly a fair opportunity of showing off their proficiency, from the jolting of the coach. Occasionally they would unconcernedly expectorate among the baggage on the floor. The smell caused by this abominable practice was intolerable and sickening at first, until one became somewhat accustomed to it.”
Excerpt from: http://genealogytrails.com/main/stagecoachtrip1.html
Maya Angelou once stated, “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you,”
Historical Christian Fiction Authors
Julie Klassen
Tracie Peterson
Karen Witemeyer
Elizabeth Camden
Lynn Austin
Michelle Griep
Francine Rivers
What is Historical Christian Fiction?
Stephanie Landsem defined it best when she wrote, “A story based on a Christian world view and has a plot, characters, or themes that are Christian in nature.”
I personally love to set my characters in places that existed and events that happened but with characters of my imagination. Having them live out adventures and survive tragedies while learning spiritual lessons is my favorite type of story to read and to write.
So, what is yours? I would love to know in the comments.
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