Meet Your Historical Pen Pals
Twelve authentic voices from six pivotal eras in American history. Each character will write personal letters to your child, sharing their unique experiences, challenges, and triumphs.
Revolutionary War
1775-1783
Samuel Prescott
Continental Army Soldier
Samuel writes from the harsh winter at Valley Forge, where he and his fellow soldiers endure freezing temperatures, scarce food, and the constant threat of defeat. Through his letters, your child will discover the true meaning of perseverance, sacrifice, and the unwavering belief in liberty that kept the Continental Army fighting against impossible odds.
Eleanor "Ellie" Hayes
Colonial Spy
Ellie shares her secret life as a colonial spy in Philadelphia, where she gathers intelligence for the Patriot cause while maintaining the appearance of an ordinary young woman. Her letters reveal the courage it takes to resist tyranny, the importance of using your mind as a weapon, and the quiet heroism of those who fought for freedom from the shadows.
Westward Expansion
1848-1869
Finn Holloway
Trail Guide
Finn guides families along the treacherous Oregon Trail, navigating rivers, mountains, and the vast unknown prairie. His letters teach your child about exploration, problem-solving, and the spirit of adventure that drove thousands of families to seek new opportunities in the West. Through Finn's eyes, they'll experience the determination it takes to chart a new course.
Seraphina "Sera" Ross
Trail Medic
Sera provides medical care to pioneer families on the Oregon Trail, using her knowledge of herbs and limited supplies to heal the sick and injured. Her letters reveal the compassion, resourcefulness, and resilience required to care for others in the harshest conditions. Your child will learn about the unsung heroes who kept hope alive on the frontier.
Civil War
1861-1865
Liam "Hawk" Finnegan
Union Balloon Corps Observer
Hawk observes Civil War battles from high above in a reconnaissance balloon, witnessing the conflict from a unique perspective. His letters capture the transition from youthful excitement to the sobering reality of war, teaching your child about the cost of division, the importance of unity, and how innovation can change the course of history.
Clara Mae Thompson
Field Hospital Nurse
Clara tends to wounded soldiers in a crowded Washington D.C. field hospital, showing compassion and professionalism in the face of unimaginable suffering. Her letters teach your child about empathy, the power of healing, and the courage it takes to care for others when the world seems to be falling apart.
World War I
1917-1918
Hazel Becker
Salvation Army "Doughnut Girl"
Hazel brings comfort to soldiers in war-torn France by making fresh donuts in bombed-out buildings, using whatever materials she can find—including soldiers' helmets as mixing bowls. Her letters reveal the power of small acts of kindness, the importance of morale, and how ordinary people can make an extraordinary difference in times of crisis.
Joseph Oklahambi
Choctaw Code Talker
Private Joseph "Joe" Oklahambi uses his native Choctaw language to transmit unbreakable military codes in the trenches of France, helping to turn the tide of battle. His letters teach your child about the contributions of Native Americans to U.S. history, the power of language and culture, and how unique perspectives can solve impossible problems.
Great Depression
1934-1936
Julian "Jules" Kowalski
Civilian Conservation Corps Worker
Jules plants trees and builds trails with the Civilian Conservation Corps, finding hope and purpose through hard work during America's darkest economic period. His letters teach your child about resilience, the dignity of labor, and how communities can rebuild together even when everything seems lost.
Nora O'Connor
Documentary Photographer
Nora documents the struggles of migrant workers in California, using her camera to expose injustice and advocate for social change. Her letters reveal the power of storytelling, the importance of bearing witness to suffering, and how one person's voice can inspire a movement for justice.
World War II
1941-1945
Private Leo Keller
Ghost Army Artist
Leo serves in the top-secret Ghost Army, using art and deception to create fake military installations that fool the enemy. His letters explore the morality of war, the power of creativity, and how unconventional thinking can save lives. Your child will learn that intelligence and ingenuity can be just as powerful as weapons.
Margaret "Maggie" Hale
WASP Pilot
Maggie flies military aircraft as a Women Airforce Service Pilot, breaking barriers and proving that women can do anything men can do. Her letters teach your child about courage, determination, and the fight for equality. Through Maggie's story, they'll discover that true heroism means standing up for what you believe in, even when the world tells you no.
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