From the earliest days of Victoria through their hopes for a brighter future, three generations of women struggle and toil to better their lot in life. Edie journeys across oceans, searching for the place where she can build a home. Lucy readies herself for the challenges of a new world, only to suffer loss after loss. Maggie shoulders the burdens of her lot in life, never losing hope that more awaits her. From their shared home looking out at the better lives being lived near the water's edge, these women will face constant challenges as they build the future of their family and, along with it, that of a burgeoning city.