The Harvey Girls: Women Who Opened the West

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Summary: The Harvey Girls: Women Who Opened The West
Review: As someone who likes the Santa Fe and Fred Harvey, this book added a new dimension to my knowledge. I applaud Ms. Poling-Kempes' research, and I truly think the oral form she used was the correct way to bring the memories of former Harvey Girls to life. I believe this book could be used as suggested reading in an American History class, as it shows one facet of the development of the west. Also, it shows in places, the goodness of these largely unsung women (and even a few Harvey officials who were men), the goodness this country is rightly proud. I would recommend this book to anyone who has even a passing interest in this era of the West, railroads, and even of fine food service. I tip my cap to Ms. Poling-Kempes for a very worthwhile bood.

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Summary: Fascinating Slice of History
Review: I have traveled throughout the Southwest for the last 20 years, and have seen references to the Harvey Girls here and there. I finally decided to read this book out of curiosity, and discovered an incredible story that is entirely left out of our history books. The story of these young women who brought gentility to the West, leaving their families and homes far behind, is fascinating and enlightening. This book is a page-turner, and the history of the Santa Fe Railroad and the Harvey Houses is something that should not be lost in the mists of time. Ms. Poling-Kempes is a gifted and entertaining writer, and I look forward to reading her other books on the Southwest.

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Summary: Fascinating true stories of women who shaped western history
Review: In my quest for literature of women's history, I found the Harvey Girls and fell in love with their adventerous courage and magical charm that tamed the wild west.

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Summary: A Delicious Slice of America's History!
Review: This is a wonderful history book disguised as a fast-moving novel.I had no knowledge of Fred Harvey's enterprises,or of the Harvey Girls,and how they affected the settling of the West along the routes of the Sante Fe Railroad. I've read extensively about the settling of the American West, but why have these people not been recognized before now? Lesley Poling-Kempes has done this country a great service by doing her extensive research on the subject of these gutsy ladies who had the courage to hop a train and set out on their own, into the uncertain world of the old West.If you enjoy reading about strong women, the settling of the American West,American entrepeneurship, or the power of the role of the railroads in shaping America, you'll enjoy this fast-paced read.It's something totally fresh and new for history buffs.