July 1 Release: "The Anointed One: Seth Paine, Midwest Abolitionist"

For over 30 years, author Nancy Schumm has studied the history of the Lake Zurich area in which Seth Paine played a role. When she dug into his history she was compelled to investigate and report his story.

Untold Story of a 19th Century Don Quixote, Seth Paine, Impacts Society Event Today in New Book

The Utopian journey of Midwest abolitionist, Seth Paine, founder of Lake Zurich (IL), who played a significant yet unrecognized role in the activities of the Underground Railroad as well as other progressive socio-economic movements, is deftly portrayed in a new historical fiction titled “The Anointed One” by Nancy Schumm, noted historian of Lake County (IL) and Baltimore (MD).

“Having studied history for over 30 years in the areas where Seth Paine lived, worked and made an impact in society, I became compelled to research, investigate and report on his story.” Schumm, former Barrington (IL) resident who now lives in the Baltimore area, explained. “Seth worked behind the scenes yet influenced many prominent people in the mid-1800s who had the resources to support and push forward programs for the poor, hungry and homeless. He always intended for his work to enlighten and empower those who knew him to seek a higher calling to affect change in the world.”

Schumm’s richly detailed and well-resourced book colorfully reveals Seth’s arduous journey, the characters in his life, and the progressive movements in which he played a part while pursuing his life’s dream to create and sustain a Utopian environment. From his devoutly religious, forward-thinking family, to the financially affluent bankers and politicians shaping society, to the journalists writing about his aberrant behavior and unpopular opinions, many voices and perspectives helped build his complex path through history.  His quest to assist humanity sometimes failed, and almost cost him his life, yet he continued to pursue his mission. In the short span of 57 years, Seth’s vision became reality through progressive programs and services in education, city development, and social support for the poor.

“The Anointed One” will release July 1, initially available for purchase through Amazon Books. For more information on upcoming book tours and presentations, please contact Schumm publicist Patty Charhut.