Books Should Be Free
Loyal Books
Free Public Domain Audiobooks & eBook Downloads
Search by: Title, Author or Keyword

Crossing the Plains, Days of '57 A Narrative of Early Emigrant Travel to California by the Ox-team Method   By: (-1921)

Book cover

Crossing the Plains, Days of '57 is a captivating narrative by Wm. Audley Maxwell that sheds light on the arduous journey of early emigrants traveling to California by ox-team during the infamous Gold Rush era. This book offers a genuine firsthand account of the hardships, triumphs, and overall reality of embarking on such a treacherous expedition.

Maxwell's writing style is vivid and gripping. He masterfully describes the physical and emotional toll that this journey takes on the emigrants. The readers are transported to that bygone era, feeling the blistering heat, enduring the biting cold, and experiencing the constant fear of being attacked by Native Americans.

One of the most commendable aspects of the book is Maxwell's ability to paint a comprehensive picture of the emigrants' experiences. He delves into the various challenges they face, from natural obstacles like crossing treacherous rivers and unforgiving mountains to issues within their own groups, such as food shortages and disagreements among travelers. This attention to detail elevates the narrative, giving readers a true understanding of the strength and determination these emigrants possessed.

Moreover, Maxwell's personal anecdotes and observations add a unique dimension to the book. He not only recounts the events but also provides insightful commentary on the emigrants' motivations, their thoughts on the changing landscape, and their interactions with the Native American tribes they encounter along the way. These personal insights provide a deeper understanding of the emigrants' psychological journey, allowing readers to empathize with their struggles and triumphs.

While the narrative itself is gripping and engaging, the overall structure of the book could have been improved. At times, the chronological order of events becomes slightly unclear, with Maxwell jumping back and forth between different parts of the journey. This occasionally disrupts the flow of the narrative and requires the reader to reorient themselves. However, this minor flaw does not detract significantly from the overall impact of the book.

In conclusion, Crossing the Plains, Days of '57 is a remarkable narrative that offers a valuable glimpse into the challenges faced by emigrants during the California Gold Rush. Maxwell's descriptive prose and personal insights make this book an engaging read, transporting readers to a time of hardship, adventure, and the indomitable spirit of those seeking a better future. Whether you have an interest in history, adventure, or human resilience, this book is sure to captivate and educate.

First Page:

[Transcriber's Note: Every effort has been made to replicate this text as faithfully as possible, including obsolete and variant spellings and other inconsistencies. Text that has been changed to correct an obvious error is noted at the end of this ebook.]

CROSSING THE PLAINS

DAYS OF '57

A NARRATIVE OF EARLY EMIGRANT TRAVEL TO CALIFORNIA BY THE OX TEAM METHOD

BY

WM. AUDLEY MAXWELL

COPYRIGHT, 1915, BY WM AUDLEY MAXWELL

SUNSET PUBLISHING HOUSE SAN FRANCISCO MCMXV

[Illustration: "They started flight" (See page 119.)]

CONTENTS

PAGE

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS VI

FOREWORD VII

CHAPTER I. Forsaking the Old, in Quest of the New. First Camp. Fording the Platte 1

CHAPTER II. Laramie Fashions and Sioux Etiquette. A Trophy. Chimney Rock. A Solitary Emigrant. Jests and Jingles 13

CHAPTER III. Lost in the Black Hills. Devil's Gate. Why a Mountain Sheep Did Not Wink. Green River Ferry 31

CHAPTER IV... Continue reading book >>




eBook Downloads
ePUB eBook
• iBooks for iPhone and iPad
• Nook
• Sony Reader
Kindle eBook
• Mobi file format for Kindle
Read eBook
• Load eBook in browser
Text File eBook
• Computers
• Windows
• Mac

Review this book



Popular Genres
More Genres
Languages
Paid Books