Texas dance halls are iconic structures that have played a prominent role in the state’s culture from its earliest stages. They became central institutions in the earliest European settlements and provided these immigrant communities with a common; central space in which to build new ways of life in a new land. The settlement patterns of the mostly German; Czech; Polish; and other central European migrants of this period gave East Central Texas the state’s greatest concentration of dance halls. Thousands of these halls were built throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries; but at present; their numbers have dwindled considerably; and many are at risk.
#1586255 in Books 2016-09-20 2016-09-20Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 7.80 x 1.02 x 5.12l; .0 #File Name: 1460750934400 pages
Review
20 of 20 people found the following review helpful. Interesting HistoryBy Pamela S. SimoneI gave this four stars because this is a look into the history of not only the crime but some of the legal system of another country. It is something I was not that familiar with until I read this book.At this late date; it is impossible to make a true determination as to how Louisa's husbands died.This book shows how little real forensics were performed at that time. Since that time; methods for handling evidence; chemical analysis; technology; and medicine have made huge advances. More is known about how diseases affect the body; diagnostics have improved; and doctors have more testing methods to accurately diagnose illnesses. Also detection of poisons and their effects are better understood.Many of the reported symptoms of both Charles and Michael are common to a number of illnesses prevalent at that time.Charles Andrews' death was most likely correctly diagnosed at the time of his death. Considering the living conditions of the area in Botany; the probable condition of the drinking water; lack of proper sewage; and the unhygienic working conditions at the time; Charles was lucky to have lived as long as he did without any serious illness.Based on the information in the book; the evidence was mostly circumstantial combined with a host of speculation based on very little scientific or medical basis in fact.No testing or investigation was performed on the soil or water around the home or in the workplaces of either Charles or Michael. It was clear that both were exposed to arsenic; viruses; bacteria; and possibly a variety of other toxins in their homes and work. The routes for pathogens was not well understood at that time nor were there many regulations regarding toxic chemicals in the work place. These could not be discounted as the cause of death for either man.No mention was made of the rat poison until the trial based on statements made by minors who had obviously been coached in their testimony.The prosecution did not produce any evidence that Louisa even purchased or borrowed rat poison. She was easily recognized in the area and no merchant or chemist testified to selling rat poison to her. No neighbors came forward stating she borrowed the poison for them.Mr Lusk did not put up much of a defense and a case could be made for an appeal based on his mishandling of the case. This shows how much a justice system can be biased against the poor who cannot afford to retain a decent lawyer and do the proper research. Unfortunately this is still the case.Most of us only have knowledge of hanging from movies where it always appears quick and efficient. This exposes the horrors of the reality that was most likely the norm.The follow up on Louisa's children was interesting. It is not often that the descendants are discussed in books on historical crimes.I also found it interesting that this case provided a tipping point for women's sufferage in Australia. The historical background on this was good. I found it a bit frightening that women were not allowed to sit on juries until 1947 in Australia.At times the book was repetitious and the style was more conversational. This lead to the structure being a bit disjointed and meandering. The syntax could have been edited to flow better. In that respect; the book read a bit like a college thesis rather than journalistic prose.However; I do recommend this to anyone who likes history or true crime.My opinion is that an innocent woman was brutally hanged for a crime she did not commit.I suggest others read it and form their own opinions.11 of 11 people found the following review helpful. A tragic story of injustice by the Australian government against ...By chrisA tragic story of injustice by the Australian government against a poverty-stricken widow. Set in the 19th century on the eve of Australian statehood and the birth of the women's rights movement. Overington's attention to detail and accuracy is to be applauded.5 of 5 people found the following review helpful. Guilty? Not Guilty? and the Historical AfteraffectsBy A. ReaderMs. Overington's book is an interesting read on multiple levels. As an avid history buff; I appreciated that the book presents all sides of the issue.The introduction states that the first question to answer is whether or not Louisa Collins was guilty; then reminds us of the historical context (women could not vote; participate in government; nor earn a living wage equal to what a man could earn). Throughout the book we are introduced to a parade of participants and how their actions affected Louisa's life.The author has carefully examined the historical events; quoting only when documented and backing up her statements with many footnotes. I enjoyed the Epilogue where the author details the lives of those people who were involved in Louisa's trials. It was also interesting to examine this little slice of history and see how it helped to bring change to a country and how some people began to spread that change throughout the world.Excellently written; this is a quick and enjoyable read.
