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DHS Publications, Davenport Historical Society
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The author and the
editor have had numerous long discussions over the use of “Fancy” in
this history’s title. The
editor has complained that “fancy” has entirely too many different and
often confusing meanings, especially when juxtaposed with “fact.”
The author has insisted that the book be lively, readable, complete
with the interesting little details of life, and not overburdened by “dull
facts.” Hence “fancy,”
not as in “fancy dress,” “Johnny is my fancy,” or “fanciful and
imaginative,” but in the old (1672, actually) sense of belief (or even
wistful belief) without quite being able to prove.
So let the reader beware. While
author and editor have not entirely avoided dull facts, both have been open
to small touches of historical color, whimsy, and illustrative overstatement—even
if all cannot exactly be proved. We
hope the reader’s attention will be piqued and that we will hear an
occasional exclamation of surprise and the words, “Fancy that!”