The book that started it all
In a true story of faith, hope, and perseverance, Jacob Rempel’s granddaughter, Tina Siemens, reveals the incredible narrative of an event that captivated the hearts of people around the world. From the parched territory of Mexico to the west Texas town of Seminole, Siemens gives a firsthand account of her family’s difficult migration...and the people who wouldn’t quit. Experience this vivid saga of a man determined to survive, a people who refused to die, and the town that fostered it all. Seminole. Because miracles do happen.
©2019 Tina Siemens (P)2019 Tina Siemens
It was a beautiful spring day in 1836, Texans all across the frontier—including the Parker family—were celebrating their independence from Mexico. The Parkers had traveled from Illinois to Central Texas, quickly building a strong fort to protect themselves from the feared Comanche. Yet, on this day, for some reason, they did the unthinkable and left the main gate wide open. The warriors forced their way in and captured the beautiful redheaded Rachel Parker Plummer and nine-year-old Cynthia Ann Parker. Several Parkers were tortured, mutilated, and killed.
This event changed the lives of Texas citizens forever, while stopping westward expansion. Not only did it produce a best-selling book in 1838, that captured the nation’s attention, but it also created a half-white/half-Comanche leader who declared war on the world. During his reign, a full moon caused generations of Americans to hide in fear, for they dared not mention his name.
POST OAK
QUANAH PARKER, THE COMANCHE, AND THE MISSION
Hop into these sandals and go on a great adventure with Tina. She’s only eight, but she can walk forever. Tina will show and tell you where these sandals took her. And you’ll learn a lot about her life, her family, and the journey that brought her to America. Tina even got to meet the President!
The
a child's journey to a new country
Little sandals that could
This book reads like a novel but offers insight into a real family and a real culture. Their determination to find a better life regardless of what it takes is remarkable. I live in Seminole so it was of special interest to me but anyone interested in Mennonite culture or religion would probably enjoy it. As a bonus, I got to speak to the author at a local farmer’s market and found her to be charming and sincere.
-BettyDee
The perseverance of the early Mennonites paid off for their future families! I see these people often, as I live near Seminole. They are the hardest workers, and are perfectionists in their work. We recommend them for any job. Very kind people, and knowing their story makes them even more special!
-Pepper
The Little Sandals That Could shows us that a little faith can go a long way.
-Cyrus Webb
Media personality and top 200 Amazon reviewer
The story of the Mennonites in Seminole has never been told any better or clearer. It may have been written for children, but its content appeals to adults, especially those who immigrated here with some difficulty.
-Tumbleweed Smith
Author of Under the Chinaberry Tree and producer of the syndicated radio series the Sound of Texas
In Post Oak, Tina Siemens masterfully brings to life the complexities and human stories within the historical context of the Seminole people and the era of "Cowboys versus Indians." This prequel to her first book, Seminole: Some People Never Give Up, delves deep into the experiences of the Parker family and Chief Quanah Parker, based on both primary sources and credible historical accounts.
Siemens' dedication to accuracy and balanced storytelling shines through as she navigates through various accounts and narratives. Her commitment to presenting both sides of the argument and acknowledging the messiness of human nature adds depth and nuance to the historical events. The book is not just a recounting of history but a thoughtful exploration of the human spirit amidst conflict.
-Mark Woommavovah
Former Chairman of the Comanche Nation
This was an incredibly enjoyable read; your personal interviews and deep research have truly paid off. Thank you for following your heart and listening to the inner voice that guided you, bringing together the historical insights of the parkers, both Anglo-Comanche and the Mennonites whose faith kept them going where others would have quit.
Future generations will enjoy the opportunity to experience firsthand the challenges of life endured by these remarkable men and women who preserved in their quests for a better life for themselves and those to come. Thank you for preserving this story for our ancestors pursuing a better life.
-PaulaAnn Tahmahkera Phillips
Great-Great-Granddaughter, Chief Quanah Parker, Anglo-Comanche
