In the Sixties

"In the Sixties" by Harold Frederic is a historical novel that transports readers to a small farming community in northern New York during the American Civil War. The story opens with a man recalling pivotal moments from his youth, especially his bond with Abner Beech, a farmer holding strong, anti-abolitionist views. The book paints a detailed picture of the Beech family, highlighting the friction between Abner and his son Jeff, whose beliefs clash with his father's amid shifting cultural norms. The story explores themes of loyalty, rebellion, and the profound effects of the war on families and the entire community, creating a stage for the characters' moral battles and struggles.