Abel Walker, the roving pedigog, steps out of the pages of history to give us his first-hand account of everyday life in colonial America. As an itinerant school master, his assignments take him throughout the emerging nation, providing the viewer an opportunity to journey with him and explore how people lived, worked, loved, fought and learned. Abel is from a long-ago era but speaks to us in our own time, bridging the gap between the struggles and aspirations of our colonial ancestors and those we face today, showing us the differences and the similarities. Like all good teachers, Abel Walker shines a light on the obscure and helps us to better understand the who, what, where, when, why and how of the times.

The Story of America chronicles a two hundred year span of events and personalities throughout all 15 colonies (Florida was the location of the 14th and 15th colonies). It's a story of enormous scope and scale and even the incomparable Miss Betty can't be everywhere at once. So she relies on a little help from her friends, most notably Abel Walker. Together they make a unique tag-team that magically transcends time. Even though Miss Betty dons period garb to help set the proper context, she is of our time serves as our host and guide through this fascinating period of American history. But when a first-hand perspective of life in colonial days is called for, Abel Walker steps out of history to provide us a personal tour of the times in which he lives.

Abel Walker is played by veteran actor Mick Tinder, best known for his portrayal of John Adams in the musical 1776. Mick has played the role more than 200 times in numerous productions. The Washington Post said, “Tinder is excellent in the part.” He has also starred as Henry Higgins in “My Fair Lady” and Nathan Detroit in “Guys and Dolls.” In addition to stage work his resume also includes film and video appearances. He is a graduate of the University of Virginia and holds a B.A. in history and English.

Many who have followed Mick's acting career are surprised to learn that he is a very successful businessman as well. His company Tinder Wholesale is a distributor of traditional wood moulding, millwork and lumber items, including Plasticlad exterior trim products.

Mick Tinder appearing as John Adams in the musical "1776" - a role he has played over 200 times in numerous productions.