“The Long Roll” was the first of two historical fiction novels about the War Between the States by Mary Johnson. She was born in Buchanan in 1860, grew up along the banks of the James River, experienced the flood of 1877, rode in packet boats and heard stories of Hunter’s Raid.
“The Long Roll” was her best selling historical romance novel in 1911 and was re-issued in the 1990s. It includes a map of the “Valley and Piedmont, Virginia” along with beautiful illustrations by N.C. Wyeth.
Miss Johnson wrote 23 novels, a drama, many short stories and articles during her 40-year career. Three of her best selling novels were made into silent films. She was one of America’s first best selling female writers. However, her career suffered when she advocated for the suffrage movement and started incorporating mysticism into her novels. She lived at “Three Hills” in Bath County until her death in 1936 and is buried in Hollywood Cemetery, Richmond, Va.
Karen Wright donated this book and other copies of Johnson’s books. Five are on display in the Botetourt Museum of History & Culture in Fincastle where more information can be obtained. There are also newly published copies of “Mary Johnson Memoirs By Mary Johnson” for sale in the Museum’s bookstore.
~ Botetourt County Museum of History & Culture
