James McCullough's Diary offers a first-hand view of frontier life in Pennsylvania near the Maryland border during the colonial period of the French and Indian War. The diary, which begins its tale in 1747, has been the subject of several previous studies. Some were purely scholarly works, while others were admitted works of fiction. In his nonfiction treatment, Mr. Houpt treads closely along the paths suggested by the diary entries, and uses additional research materials-and a bit of imagination-to illuminate this fascinating period of American history. Jim Houpt was born and raised within miles of where James McCullough lived and worked in the mid 1700s. At one time or another Jim may have literally walked in Mr. McCullough's footprints. His absorption in the McCullough Diary began soon after he learned of its existence, and his desire to open its secrets to lovers of history everywhere led to this book. Before retiring, Jim Houpt pastored successful churches for more than thirty years and produced numerous spiritually themed stage productions.