The narratives portrayed in this book represent the life stories of various pioneers from eighteenth-century Virginia. Their struggles and achievements are not well known; nevertheless, they played a crucial role. From poor immigrants, religious dissenters, and the landed gentry, they all changed Virginia history.

Pioneer accounts include: Charles Chriswell, Michael Kelly, Nicholas Meriwether, The Queen of Pamunkey, Thomas Joyce, Thomas Stanley, William Witcher, and Sir Francis Wyatt. All of these pioneers, in their own way, contributed to the culture of colonial Virginia. For better or for worse, they either inspired hope or planted fear. In some cases, it was both. The history of Virginia was forever shaped by these pioneers and their decisions.

An index to full-names, places and subjects adds to the value of this work.