In her delightful memoir--New Harmony, Indiana: Like a River Not a Lake--Jane Blaffer Owen describes the transformational effect the town had on her life. She met and married Kenneth Dale Owen, great-great-grandson of Robert Owen, founder of the communal society in New Harmony. When she visited the then-dilapidated town with her husband in 1941, it was love at first sight, and the story of her lif
e and the life of the town became intertwined. Her engaging account of her journey to renew the town provides glimpses into New Harmony's past and all of its citizens--scientists, educators, and naturalists--whose influence spread far beyond the town limits. And, there are fascinating stories of the artists, architects, and theologians who became part of Blaffer Owen's life at New Harmony, where, she says, "My roots could sink deeply and spread." "Owen's memoir is poetically told and is a powerful testament by an extraordinary woman who had a higher purpose. For her, sculpture was a prayer that could awaken the soul." Don Gummer, sculptor
"New Harmony reflects Jane Owen's unique ability to combine contemplation with action, making the town an eternal altar that cherishes the past and looks toward the future." Meryl Streep, actor
