Before the Wind

Vineland, New Jersey began life in the 1860s as a haven for free thinkers, a stopover for renowned artists, actors, activists and political figures and a champion of women's suffrage. In the 1870s, it became the focus of media attention over a murder trial involving its visionary founder, Charles K. Landis. Since then, the myths and legends cultivated by time have told their own versions of the tale about the town and its creator. This book is the true story of Vineland and Landis, a lawyer, entrepreneur, postmaster, husband, father, traveler and author whose energy and persistence led to the founding of several South Jersey towns. It is an engrossing story of a man whose fame and fortune collided with personal tragedy and jealous opposition.