A Little Girl of Long Ago; Or, Hannah Ann

In the bustling streets of 1846 New York, an inquisitive eleven‑year‑old named Hannah Ann—Hanny to those who love her—spends her days drifting between the comforts of home and the vast possibilities of a world still being charted. She chats with her family about the future, wondering whether anyone will live to see the year 1900, while her brother’s newborn son adds a fresh sparkle to the household. Hanny’s curiosity extends beyond the city’s borders, as she dreams of distant lands—from the mysteries of China to the untamed wilderness beyond the Rockies—fueling a sense of adventure that feels both timeless and newly awakened.

Life at the Underhill residence is a lively tapestry of music, fashion, and anticipation. The children buzz about Mr. Bradbury’s upcoming concert, and preparations for a lavish Valentine’s ball bring elegant gowns and historic costume designs into the picture. Amid these celebrations, Hanny balances her love of learning with the simple joys of family, hinting at the gentle coming‑of‑age journey that will shape her view of a rapidly changing world.