A Yankee Girl At Fort Sumter

"A Yankee Girl at Fort Sumter" by Alice Turner Curtis is a historical novel set in Charleston, South Carolina, just before the outbreak of the Civil War. The story follows Sylvia Fulton, a ten-year-old girl from Boston, who is living in Charleston with her parents. Sylvia navigates the complexities of Southern society, where tensions between the North and South are escalating. She becomes friends with Grace Waite and Flora Hayes, two local girls, but faces hostility from Elinor Mayhew, who scornfully calls her a "Yankee." Despite the challenges, Sylvia remains resilient and learns the importance of standing up for what is right, embodying the true spirit of a "Yankee" as explained by her father. Sylvia's adventures include an unexpected journey to Fort Sumter, where she inadvertently becomes involved in the political tensions of the time. Her friendship with Estralla, a young African American girl, highlights the racial and social issues of the era. Sylvia's courage and kindness are evident as she protects Estralla from punishment and navigates the prejudices of her peers. The novel explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the moral complexities of a nation on the brink of war. Through Sylvia's experiences, young readers gain insight into the historical context of the Civil War and the values of courage and honor.