The Von Toodleburgs; Or, The History of a Very Distinguished Family

"The Von Toodleburgs; Or, The History of a Very Distinguished Family" by F. Colburn Adams is a novel about the Toodleburgs, especially Hanz, his wife Angeline, and their son Titus Bright, exploring themes of family and how society changes. The story starts with Hanz, a well-liked farmer near Nyack, and his friendly relationship with Angeline. They want children, but their childlessness has been a topic of gossip. The story shows their simple life, the birth of their son Titus, and the changes that come with new inventions and more pressure from society. Titus wants to become a whaler, which shows the family's changing place in the world and how complicated their relationships with others are.