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

Death Valley in '49   By:

Book cover

In "Death Valley in '49," William Lewis Manly provides a gripping first-hand account of his harrowing journey across Death Valley in the winter of 1849. As a member of the ill-fated Jayhawker party, Manly's narrative is filled with candid details and emotions, making this book a remarkable documentation of survival and resilience.

Manly's prose effectively transports readers to the unforgiving and treacherous landscapes of Death Valley. Through vivid descriptions of the intense heat, barren terrains, and scarce resources, he vividly captures the sheer desolation and hostility of this harsh environment. Manly's ability to paint such a bleak picture not only enhances the reader's understanding of the hardships endured but also fosters a deep appreciation for the tenacity and resourcefulness of the early pioneers.

What sets "Death Valley in '49" apart from other memoirs is Manly's introspection and vulnerability in recounting his experiences. He confesses his fears, insecurities, and moments of doubt throughout the journey, humanizing his character and making his story relatable to readers. This raw honesty adds layers of authenticity to the narrative and allows readers to form a closer connection to Manly's plight, heightening the emotional impact of the story.

Furthermore, Manly skillfully weaves in tales of his companions' heroic actions and tragic losses, offering a comprehensive account of the multiple challenges they faced. The author's ability to vividly portray the hardships, including the relentless thirst, lack of sustenance, and the tragic deaths of fellow travelers, serves as a captivating reminder of the dangers that awaited pioneers during this time period.

Moreover, "Death Valley in '49" captures the resilience, camaraderie, and determination displayed by the Jayhawker party. Manly's portrayal of their collective spirit and unwavering hope in the face of adversity offers a profound reflection on the human spirit's ability to persevere through the bleakest of circumstances.

However, one aspect that may hinder readers' engagement with the book is the occasional use of outdated language and stylistic choices reflective of its time of publication. While this adds a historical charm, it may pose a challenge to modern readers who prefer contemporary prose.

Nevertheless, "Death Valley in '49" remains a captivating and immersive account of survival, endurance, and the unfathomable strength of the human spirit. Manly's honest portrayal of his treacherous journey in Death Valley serves as a testament to the indomitable will of pioneers, making this book a worthy read for anyone interested in the history of the American West and the remarkable stories of those who dared to venture into its unexplored frontiers.

First Page:

DEATH VALLEY IN '49.

IMPORTANT CHAPTER OF California Pioneer History.

THE

AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF A PIONEER, DETAILING HIS LIFE FROM A HUMBLE HOME IN THE GREEN MOUNTAINS TO THE GOLD MINES OF CALIFORNIA; AND PARTICULARLY RECITING THE SUFFERINGS OF THE BAND OF MEN, WOMEN AND CHILDREN WHO GAVE "DEATH VALLEY" ITS NAME.

BY WILLIAM LEWIS MANLY.

1894.

Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1894, by WM. L. MANLEY, In the office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington, D.C.

TO THE PIONEERS OF CALIFORNIA, THEIR CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN, THIS BOOK IS DEDICATED, WITH THAT HIGH RESPECT AND REGARD SO OFTEN EXPRESSED IN ITS PAGES, BY THE AUTHOR.

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER I. Birth, Parentage. Early Life in Vermont. Sucking Cider through a Straw.

CHAPTER II. The Western Fever. On the Road to Ohio. The Outfit. The Erie Canal. In the Maumee Swamp.

CHAPTER III. At Detroit and Westward. Government Land. Killing Deer. "Fever 'N Agur."

CHAPTER IV. The Lost Filley Boy. Never Was Found.

CHAPTER V. Sickness. Rather Catch Chipmonks in the Rocky Mountains than Live in Michigan... 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