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Just finished the book The American Plague by Memphis writer Molly Caldwell Crosby. The novel spotlights our city's 1878 Yellow Fever Epidemic and how the disease came to be conquered. I think any Memphian would find this book enjoyable and informative, as very few in the area know anything about the yellow fever epidemic(s). As Crosby points out, the Memphis Yellow Fever epidemic of 1878 killed more people than the San Francisco Earthquake, the Great Chicago Fire, and the Johnstown Flood combined. The descriptions are haunting and insightful. It comes recommended by the New York Times book review as well.
Ahhh I just got this book for Christmas, looking forward to reading it soon.
Anyone who likes history and has roots in the Delta would probably like Rising Tide by John Barry. It is about the great Mississippi River flood of 1927, and how it profoundly changed the region.

I will check out The American Plague, it sounds interesting. A little related Civil Engineering trivia:

Memphis is the first city to install a wastewater collection system that was separate from its storm water system, in part, mainly, to the yellow fever outbreak.
Also a little known fact: The Mississippi Delta land used to be great forests until it was cleared out by farmers about a hundred years ago.

Two other fascinating Memphis history books: Recollections of 90 Years by Elizabeth Avery Meriwether, and When the Mississippi Ran Backwards by Jay Feldman) 1811-12 great New Madrid earthquakes. Also on the yellow fever epidemic, The Celebrant (short account of one of the priests sent down from the North who lost his life ministering to the sick and is one of the Memphis Martyrs.)
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