Angel of the Swamp Angel of the Swamp: Deaconess Harriet Bedell In The Everglades by Marya Repko

Harriet Bedell is being canonized by the Episcopal Church. What did she do during her long life to be considered a saint? How did the tiny teacher from Buffalo end up in the Everglades?

The Deaconess was a missionary to Native Americans in Oklahoma, Alaska, and the Everglades. She came to Florida in 1933 where she remained active at her little Glade Cross Mission until she was over 85 years old, helping the Seminoles and Miccosukees market their crafts and improve their standard of living. She also touched the lives of local residents around Everglades City and in nearby Marco Island where she taught sewing and Sunday School.

“This new book is a fascinating account of the life of Harriet Bedell, a very unusual woman who was adopted into three different Indian tribes. The author has done a remarkable job of collecting and assembling a great deal of historical and anecdotal information about this indomitable lady and you will find this book hard to put down. I am IMPRESSED!”

Marion Nicolay, journalist, Marco Island, FL

The book has a plethora of historical photographs plus a chapter of reminiscences by local people about the Deaconess. There is a handy Time-Line of events that influenced her life and Biographical Sketches of important people. The extensive Bibliography points the reader to background information.