Cross Creek ~ Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings

Cross Creek is a book with amusing and spirited stories about life in the small village of Cross Creek here in Alachua County. Cross Creek helped me understand the culture and history of the region. These stories have special meaning for me since I am a third generation native Floridian whose maternal grandmother was born and raised in North Florida. This book is also special to me because I am a University of Florida graduate and Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings had close ties to the University while living in Cross Creek.

I first read Cross Creek and other books by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings during the first few years of my career. I remember being captivated by the independence, courage and perseverance that she exhibited as a female author living in rural Alachua County. This was particularly impressive since she lived here during the early to mid-1900s. Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings initially struggled to become an author of romance stories – but when her editor told Marjorie that her letters describing her life in Cross Creek and Cracker Florida were much richer and interesting, she listened to his insights and changed her path as an author. The book Cross Creek exists for us and future generations to enjoy due to the path she chose. Reading her books and learning about her life instilled within me the importance of balancing independence, courage and perseverance with listening carefully to the wisdom of mentors and colleagues.

Photo by: Dwight Bennett, Ned Davis & Martine Horrell
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