Pioneer Dictionary

Alison Mews is co-ordinator of the Centre for Instructional Services at
Memorial University of Newfoundland.

Described as “an alphabetical listing of words related to life on the
North American frontier,” this illustrated dictionary defines many
terms unfamiliar to modern children. From “abacus” to “zouave
jacket,” ordinary items used in daily pioneer life are described.
Almost one-half of the terms have pictures (either colored drawings or
photos) that help to clarify the brief textual description. A few are
confusing, such as a sheep for “fleece” and an elaborate rocking
chair with an opening for “chamber pot,” but generally they do help
to illustrate the object. As the definitions are so brief, the
difference between two similar objects may not be immediately apparent,
such as between “cutter” and “sleigh,” both of which look alike.

Unlike most dictionaries, there are no pronunciation guides; nor are
syllable separations or plural forms given. Along with unfamiliar terms
are those still in usage today, such as “vegetable garden,”
“violin,” “wool,” and “saddle.” I am uncertain as to why
these were included, unless to give children a sense of the similarities
between that time period and their own. Despite these problems, Pioneer
Dictionary  would make a useful supplement to thematic units on
pioneers, or to children sharing the “Little House” books.
Recommended with reservations.