These books present a sample of historical writing on Prarie-related subjects, including the history and social ecology of prairie regions. See the "Books" section of this Libguide for more information about finding book sources.
Below are books and other sources that provide a selection of pre-twentieth century descriptions of the prairies.
"Next to Lousiansa and Delaware, Illinois is the most level state in the Union [. . .] by far the greater portion of the state is is ether distributed in vast plains, or in barrens, that are gently rolling like the waves of the sea after a storm. We may travel on the wide praries for days without encountering an elevation worthy to be called a hill." -Agustus Mitchell, Sketches of Illinois (1838)