Louisa created family newspaper Olive Leaf

Louisa created a family newspaper called the Olive Leaf, which served as an outlet for her creativity and a means to connect with her family and community. The publication was named after the local Olive Branch and featured a variety of content, including stories, poems, articles, and practical housekeeping advice. This initiative reflected Louisa's desire to provide valuable information and entertainment to her readers, while also allowing her to express her own thoughts and experiences. The Olive Leaf later underwent a rebranding and was renamed The Portfolio, indicating a shift in its focus or perhaps an expansion of its content. In addition to her work on the newspaper, Louisa also embarked on writing her first novel, The Inheritance, which drew inspiration from the themes present in Jane Eyre. This novel was published posthumously, highlighting Louisa's literary ambitions and her drive to escape the constraints of poverty. Her writings often conveyed a longing for a better life, as evidenced by her reflection on wealth, goodness, and familial happiness.