Ms. Vinson has abstracted and compiled articles of genealogical value from microfilmed copies of Prattville's weekly newspaper-a treasure trove of information on Alabama families and a glimpse of our world in 1854 as viewed through southern eyes. Shifting county lines, following the publication of this newspaper, make this volume of interest to genealogists researching ancestors in Autauga, Elmore or Chilton Counties. Elmore County was established in 1866 and included an eastern section of Autauga. Chilton, formed in 1868, annexed a northern portion of Autauga. Articles cover a vast array of subjects including probate court notices, legislative reports, robberies, deaths, illnesses, and much more. There are stories depicting the life of some slaves and the treatment they received in the North and in the South. State and national news items are also included, which increases the genealogical value of this volume. Spelling variations have been maintained as they appeared in these articles, and each variation is included in the index. (2000), 2015, 51/2x81/2, paper, 244 pp.