Templeton, New York

Templeton, New York is the novel’s main setting. It is based on Cooperstown, New York, which is the author’s hometown. Although the main narrative takes place in the present day, the novel portrays Templeton at various points throughout its history. The town was founded by Marmaduke Temple in the late 1700s. By the 1900s, the town’s economy began to fail, but it was saved by the construction of the Baseball Hall of Fame, which attracted many tourists. Willie grew up in Templeton, and she has fond memories of it. After she completes some in-depth research on the town’s history, she has a deeper appreciation for the drama and complexity of that history.

Averell Cottage

Averell Cottage is a large, very old building in Templeton. It was originally the residence of Hetty and Jedediah Averell. In the present-day, it is occupied by Vivienne...