Five Years in the Alleghanies

"Five Years in the Alleghanies" by Jonathan Cross is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The book chronicles the author's experiences as a colporteur, sharing religious texts and engaging with impoverished and often illiterate communities in the Allegheny Mountains. Through personal anecdotes and interactions, it sheds light on the spiritual desolation and urgent need for educational resources in these isolated areas, illustrating the transformative impact of religious outreach. The opening of the work introduces the author’s early life and struggles with faith, describing a challenging upbringing and a journey towards spiritual awakening. Cross details his decision to become a colporteur, motivated by a desire to fulfill God’s calling and address the dire spiritual needs of the people he encounters. He documents his initial training, the challenges he faces with his own doubts, and the profound experiences that affirm his mission to bring the Gospel to those living in ignorance of its teachings. As he sets out into the wilderness, the foundation for his spiritually rich and transformative journey unfolds, promising intriguing narratives of faith, perseverance, and service in the ensuing chapters.