This book traces a single line of descent from Captain John Cummins, veteran of the American War for Independence, to the author. The story spans seven generations and more than 270 years and is focused on the Cummins family. It tells the story of each generation, describing their lives and accomplishments in the context of American history. The story begins with a tavern keeper who fought for independence, continues with craftsmen, oil men and labor leaders dedicated to providing for their families. Beside each man stood a strong, determined woman, holding the family together and ensuring the legacy for succeeding generations. These seven generations saw lives destroyed by misfortune, disease and war. Still, they carried onward, struggling to improve their lives through the opportunities presented by the frontiers of America, be they geographical, technological or social. While much remains to be learned about the past, the experience of these generations helps explain the present and gives guidance for the future.