Write without Fear. Edit without Mercy.

Deirdre Gamill-Hock is a historical researcher and storyteller dedicated to uncovering the forgotten stories of America's past. With over 20 years of writing experience, she specializes in bringing authentic historical details to life through meticulous research and compelling narratives.

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Drawing on her own immigrant family history, Deirdre is currently working on an ambitious historical family drama series that explores generational trauma through the lens of homesteaders in 1880s South Dakota. What began as genealogical research into her ancestors' survival on the Dakota frontier has evolved into a multi-generational saga examining how survival, community building, economic disaster, and the transition to small-town life shaped entire families across decades.

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With the harsh Dakota land and weather serving as central characters alongside her Swedish protagonists, the series explores how different ethnic groups, German Russians, Irish, Norwegians, and others, each brought unique responses to shared frontier challenges. The multi-book series follows families from their first desperate winter in sod houses through community formation, the devastating economic crashes of the 1890s, and ultimately into the complexities of emerging small-town society at the turn of the century.

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By combining family documents, oral histories, and meticulous historical research, Deirdre reveals not just how people survived, but how trauma, resilience, and cultural heritage passed from one generation to the next.

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What Sets Her Research Apart:

Deirdre combines family documents and oral histories with rigorous historical research, ensuring that every detail, from construction techniques to daily life experiences, is authentic and well-sourced. Her personal connection to the immigrant experience, combined with professional storytelling craft, bridges the gap between academic research and accessible historical narrative.

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Background & Expertise: With an MBA from Wichita State University and a BBA with a double major in Business Administration and Psychology from Pittsburg State University, Deirdre brings analytical skills and organizational expertise to her historical research. Her previous experience managing successful grant proposals and community development projects has honed her ability to dig deep into archives, analyze complex information, and present compelling narratives.

As the daughter of an English professor, Dr. Kathleen L. Nichols, Deirdre developed a love of reading and learning at a young age. This foundation, combined with her diverse career experiences, provides her with the background knowledge and research skills essential for authentic historical storytelling.

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Current Projects:

• Multi-generational historical family saga based on her Swedish immigrant ancestors' experiences on the Dakota frontier (1880s-1900s)

• Research blog documenting the authentic social, economic, and cultural forces that shaped frontier families

• Deep dives into how different ethnic groups navigated shared challenges while maintaining cultural identity

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Beyond Research: When not immersed in historical archives or crafting stories from the past, Deirdre enjoys creating art, gardening, cooking, and caring for her rescue pets. She supports animal protection organizations, such as Friends of Parkville Animal Shelter, as well as global anti-poverty organizations like Unbound, and various disease-fighting charities, including the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

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Connect with Deirdre: Whether you're interested in historical research, genealogy, historical fiction writing, or simply love discovering stories from the past, follow along as Deirdre uncovers the remarkable tales of those who came before us.

Note: While Deirdre continues to offer select writing and editing services, her primary focus has shifted to historical research and storytelling. For inquiries about historical research projects or collaboration opportunities, please get in touch.

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