Abigail Scott Duniway (Part 1)
Abigail Jane Scott was born on October 22, 1834 to Ann and John Tucker Scott. She was the second daughter and third child for the couple. Apparently her father was not too pleased with having another girl child, whom he considered a burden. By then, the firstborn child, a son, had died as an infant.
Her early life was tough as the family toiled on an Illinois farm. The children were expected to help with the chores as well. These chores became tougher as nine more children came along, making the chores more difficult and long as the family struggled to feed themselves. Nutrition and tender loving care were lacking. All her life Abigail would suffer from chronic weakness of the spine and, in later years, was crippled by rheumatoid arthritis.
Abigail also highly detested domestic chores. She became the rebel of the family. She adored her father, who though stern and demanding was also very fair and always encouraged her to study and write. She loved her younger brother Harvey, whom she always looked after. Her mother seemed to accept her lot and tolerate it, something that Abigail just couldn't abide.
Her first schooling came in the form of private tutoring by her grandmother. She was a quick learner and was soon able to read and write. She entered school when eight years old, but due to illness left before completing one semester. She received no other formal schooling except for one year at a small academy. While there she heard about Elizabeth Cady Stanton, the suffragist. She also heard the words of Horace Greeley, who advocated the abolition of slavery. Both people would form Abigail's future.
In 1850, the Oregon Donation Land Act was enacted. This act entitled each man to 320 acres of land, 640 acres if he was married. Father Scott decided it was time to take his family west. He claimed it was partly that he hoped his wife's health would recover in a different climate. However, Ann Scott did not want to go. During the winter of 1851, the family made preparations to move west. They sold off everything unnecessary, including all of Abigail's precious books. She managed to save only one spelling book, which she hid in the bottom of her sewing basket.
In April 1852, the family set out for Oregon. Most of the family was upset. Only John Scott and Abigail were excited about the prospect. Abigail was thrilled to get away from the drudgery of farm life. Her father asked Abigail to keep a daily journal of their trip. She was thrilled at the honor.
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