Michigan's Own Moses: The Revolutionary War Story You Never Knew You Needed
A Battle Creek writer brings history to life in a gripping tale of courage and revolution.
Battle Creek resident Mark Crawford has published his second historical novel, "Michigan Moses," a compelling blend of documented family history and imaginative storytelling that traces one soldier's remarkable journey from Revolutionary War battlefields to the untamed Michigan frontier.
The novel centers on John "Patriot" Crawford, the author's ancestor, who joined the fight for American independence at just 17 years old.
The young soldier fought alongside General Benedict Arnold at the Battle of Ridgefield, Connecticut, experiencing firsthand the brutal realities of war that would shape the new nation.
But Crawford's story doesn't end with the war.
The book follows his westward expansion into the Michigan Territory, capturing the spirit of adventure and perseverance that defined America's early pioneers.
Through meticulous research and vivid prose, Mark Crawford brings to life the challenges and triumphs of frontier settlement in what would become the Great Lakes State.
"Michigan Moses" arrives at a particularly meaningful moment, published in time for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
The National Park Service's American Revolution resources provide additional context for this pivotal period in American history.
The book has been edited by Battle Creek resident Peter G. Phelps, adding another layer of local connection to this community-driven project.
Readers interested in Revolutionary War history will find Crawford's narrative both educational and engaging.
For Battle Creek residents, "Michigan Moses" offers a unique opportunity to connect with local heritage while exploring the broader story of American expansion.
The novel is available on Amazon and Kindle, making it accessible to history enthusiasts throughout Battle Creek and beyond.
Crawford's work demonstrates how family stories can illuminate larger historical narratives, reminding us that the past lives on through the records and memories we preserve.
"Michigan Moses" stands as a testament to the power of local history and the enduring appeal of well-crafted historical fiction.
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Peter Phelps edited it? Small world, I went to school with his son. Cool to see locals supporting each other like this.
tom_bcHa, Battle Creek really is a small world sometimes. I've run into Peter at a few local events — seems like a great guy. Nice that the whole project stayed so local.
Battle Creek really does have a wonderful way of coming together on projects like this — having Peter Phelps bring his editorial expertise to the book is very much a homegrown labor of love.
Had no idea Benedict Arnold was involved at Ridgefield before he turned traitor. Might have to pick this up just for that part.
That's one of the most fascinating aspects of John's story — Arnold was actually celebrated as a hero at Ridgefield in 1777, years before his infamous defection, which adds a remarkable layer of historical irony to the narrative.
Always cool to see someone from Battle Creek write about local history. Adding this to my list.
Dave K.Same, just ordered it on Kindle. Michigan frontier history is so underrated, most people jump straight to the Civil War era and skip all the early settlement stuff.
That's exactly what Mark set out to do — show how one family's story can open a window into the broader sweep of American history, right here in our own backyard.