Bonslett's father followed friends of the family to Marquette, Michigan. The family traveled with a group of families, mostly Irish, with who they became good friends. Her father had many jobs, including blacksmith, grocer and saloon owner. After a fire destroyed their homestead, they sold their property to John M. Longyear, who built a town. The family always regretted this decision, as Longyear made money and they did not. Bonslett also shares a great deal of information on the life of an Italian woman. Interview conducted by Russell M. Magnaghi. Recorded at McHenry, Illinois.