Fort Laramie and the Pageant of the West, 1834-1890

by Leroy R. Hafen, Francis Marion Young

To weary travelers on the Oregon Trail during the middle decades of the nineteenth century, Fort Laramie was a welcome sight. Its walls and flag-decked towers rose from the high plains, their solidity suggesting that the white man was gaining a toehold in the wilderness. Hafen and Young present the colorful history of Fort Laramie from its establishment as Fort John in 1834 to its abandonment in 1890. Early on, the fort was controlled by the American Fur Company and patronized by trappers like Jim Bridger and Kit Carson. Then it was a vital supply center and rest stop for a tide of emigrants--missionaries, Mormons, forty-niners, and homeseekers. As more wagons rolled west and the Pony Express came through, the need for protection increased; in 1849, Fort Laramie was converted from a trapper's post into a military fort. Down through the years there were skirmishes with the Plains Indians, who sometimes came to the fort to barter and to treat. The peace council of 1851—one of the largest gatherings of tribes ever seen in the Old West—is here described in fascinating detail. The cast of characters in this great historical pageant reads like a who's who of the American West.

Genres: History, Nonfiction

427 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 1984

Reviews

[Bill A · Rating 3 out of 5]

My review and criticism is likely driven by the fact that the book is nearly ninety years old. Various perspectives and points of view have evolved over time.

As a compliment, the authors did great research, including extensive use of primary sources. It brings the story to life. However, the book is written through the lens of settlers, primarily white settlers, in a process completely disregarding the folks who lived in the region. In this regard, the discussion and references to many of the treaties in the region and at Fort Laramie do not include enough perspective, especially IMO that of the Lakota (Sioux). When one reads various accounts of the history of the region, it becomes obvious how much the treaties were disregarded by the settlers and the US army defending expansion and mining. For a good perspective on such, try reading Joseph Marshall's books. I believe the history is better understood when reading as many perspectives as possible.

[Drpsychorat · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really excellent book on the history of Fort Laramie, its construction and use until its abandonment in 1890. It is filled with 1st person narratives as well as object facts. It also treats the soldiers, civilians and Native Americans fairly- describing both faults & virtues. Overall a great book on the fort and it's place in the western expansion. I am indebted to the Ranger at Fort Laramie National Historic Site for recommending it to me. Many thanks!