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At the End of the Santa Fe Trail
Originally published in 1932 and long unavailable, this memoir by a strong-willed and resourceful nun is a valuable addition to the story of women in the West.
Sister Blandina (1850-1941) served in southern Colorado and northern New Mexico from 1872 to 1894 as a member of the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati. Sister Blandina dedicated herself to teaching Hispanic children, tending the sick, visiting prisoners, assisting orphans, and raising money to further missionary activities among Hispanics and Native Americans. She quickly recognized the essential injustice of the settling of the West and observed that the Native Americans' "right to the land we call America is unquestioned."
Sister Blandina (1850-1941) served in southern Colorado and northern New Mexico from 1872 to 1894 as a member of the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati. Sister Blandina dedicated herself to teaching Hispanic children, tending the sick, visiting prisoners, assisting orphans, and raising money to further missionary activities among Hispanics and Native Americans. She quickly recognized the essential injustice of the settling of the West and observed that the Native Americans' "right to the land we call America is unquestioned."
196 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 1999
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
June 23, 2021
Incredible story. The things that Sister Blandina saw and experienced were fascinating. She was so clever and brave, and I was in awe at how she solved so many precarious situations with her wits. It was an eye opener for me to read about all the good that the Church did in the west as well. I will definitely be reading this book again.
March 18, 2016
Local Sister whose cause for sainthood has been opened by the Vatican. This is a great history lesson on New Mexico and Colorado. -Recommended by Dan
For more of Dan's Recommendations, go to: http://www.page1book.com/dans-picks.html
For more of Dan's Recommendations, go to: http://www.page1book.com/dans-picks.html
February 10, 2024
A wonderful first hand account of life in the Old West from 1870s to 1890s from a Catholic Sister of Charity. With beautiful insights and a truly Catholic spirit, Sister Blandina gives us all lessons in history, true social justice, and love of neighbor rooted in and blossoming from love of God
December 31, 2025
An amazing first hand account of a southwestern history in Colorado and New Mexico by an intelligent and brave woman who staunchly lived out her values to the benefit of those around her. A fascinating and worthwhile read.
As a side note, this book would be greatly enhanced through the addition of maps and photographs as well as annotations explaining some concepts/terms for the modern day reader with some corrections to a few errors she made in timing or detail.
As a side note, this book would be greatly enhanced through the addition of maps and photographs as well as annotations explaining some concepts/terms for the modern day reader with some corrections to a few errors she made in timing or detail.
October 27, 2017
Nuns from Ohio led establishment of Arizona/Colorado Schools
Because it is a diary written by Sister Blandina, it sometimes seemed a little one-person. The action was at the time of Billy the Kid and other 1800s personages. Santa Fe and Albuquerque were infant cities. Schools, of any kind were not widely available to any but the most wealthy. Sister and her fellow nuns were very involved, not only with schools but also hospitals. I truly enjoyed reading her account of so many instances where her power lay in her ability to read a situation and act without regard to politics, money, and self-gain. She treated everyone with dignity.
Because it is a diary written by Sister Blandina, it sometimes seemed a little one-person. The action was at the time of Billy the Kid and other 1800s personages. Santa Fe and Albuquerque were infant cities. Schools, of any kind were not widely available to any but the most wealthy. Sister and her fellow nuns were very involved, not only with schools but also hospitals. I truly enjoyed reading her account of so many instances where her power lay in her ability to read a situation and act without regard to politics, money, and self-gain. She treated everyone with dignity.
February 1, 2024
Sent a missionary by herself to the western territory in the 1800s, Sister Blandina's only resource for her mission was her TRUST IN GOD. Trust in God and guidance and protection from the angels allowed her to accomplish amazing things for the Glory of God. The book is also a great history lesson in Colorado and New Mexico. This book is a must-read for anyone contemplating missionary work. “May the angels go with you. It takes a 100 years for gossip to die.”
Dania Rosa Nasca author of
Lights Out: A Cuban Memoir of Betrayal and Survival
Growing up Catholic in 1960s communist Cuba
Dania Rosa Nasca author of
Lights Out: A Cuban Memoir of Betrayal and Survival
Growing up Catholic in 1960s communist Cuba
August 23, 2014
While this book doesn't seem to have been edited since the original version and not all of her facts seem to match up, it doesn't take away from the entertainment value and the message that her story delivers. I was fascinated by Sr. Blandina's life, her experiences, and the person that she was. There are a number of aspects of this book that are invaluable lessons to those who take the chance to live and work outside of their comfort zones, for a cause bigger than themselves.
January 23, 2022
What a heartwarming story about the Wild West & 3 cities I love: Trinidad, Colorado & Santa Fe & Albuquerque, New Mexico. This woman’s dealt with Billy the Kid & other hazards & didn’t blink an eye. A great journal of our history.
June 25, 2025
This book provides a historical, birds-eye view of the missionary work and dedication of Sisters of Charity and Jesuits on the American Southwestern frontier. Sister Blandina’s journal entries are a series of letters to her sister, Sister Justina.
We learn about the Catholic Church's dedication and love for Native Americans, advocating for these indigenous people who face deprivation and bigotry. The Sisters of Charity built hospitals, schools, and chapels to serve the whole person, both spiritually and physically. Sister Blandina shares many interesting facts about the American frontier and history, and Billy the Kid becomes an acquaintance and develops a curious relationship—protective of the Sisters—due to Sister Blandina's charity.
Then there’s the press that aims to paint a bleak picture of the Catholic Church and Her efforts with the Native Americans, which Sister Blandina has the chance to clarify. “No, the monks did not harm the Native Americans; in fact, they were the only advocates for their safety,” Sister corrects.
The Sisters of Charity carefully assembled this historical journal, and it is evident that Sister Blandina, who is being considered for sainthood, deserves our attention, admiration, and respect.
I loved this book, which I received during our women’s retreat this year. The focus was on American Saints, a fascinating retreat that covered incredible American Catholic saints, clergy, and religious who generously dedicated themselves to conversions and the Catholic Church.
We learn about the Catholic Church's dedication and love for Native Americans, advocating for these indigenous people who face deprivation and bigotry. The Sisters of Charity built hospitals, schools, and chapels to serve the whole person, both spiritually and physically. Sister Blandina shares many interesting facts about the American frontier and history, and Billy the Kid becomes an acquaintance and develops a curious relationship—protective of the Sisters—due to Sister Blandina's charity.
Then there’s the press that aims to paint a bleak picture of the Catholic Church and Her efforts with the Native Americans, which Sister Blandina has the chance to clarify. “No, the monks did not harm the Native Americans; in fact, they were the only advocates for their safety,” Sister corrects.
The Sisters of Charity carefully assembled this historical journal, and it is evident that Sister Blandina, who is being considered for sainthood, deserves our attention, admiration, and respect.
I loved this book, which I received during our women’s retreat this year. The focus was on American Saints, a fascinating retreat that covered incredible American Catholic saints, clergy, and religious who generously dedicated themselves to conversions and the Catholic Church.
October 11, 2021
Although following the course of Sister Blandina's letters and observations is at times a little perplexing, it is a rare and fascinating look into the history of southern Colorado and northeastern New Mexico during the later 1800's.
It is also a wonderful account of a fascinating lady who was a pioneer in her own right. She was a tiny lady, and very young, when sent to the rough western frontier town of Trinidad to join her sister Catholic order to be a teacher.
Sister Blandina turned out to be a mover and a shaker, a leader among men and women. In short order she managed to obtain a bright and functionable school house when there was no money available to make it happen. Her strategy? Tear the old one and see what happens!
For twenty years she served the God she loved unconditionally and the people of this area she loved almost as much, using her her courage and her talents to become a local legend.
The reader is also introduced to a host of local characters who were notable and admirable - or not - in their own right. Plus, this book is another confirmation of just how rough and lawless life could be living out west during the time period.
It is also a wonderful account of a fascinating lady who was a pioneer in her own right. She was a tiny lady, and very young, when sent to the rough western frontier town of Trinidad to join her sister Catholic order to be a teacher.
Sister Blandina turned out to be a mover and a shaker, a leader among men and women. In short order she managed to obtain a bright and functionable school house when there was no money available to make it happen. Her strategy? Tear the old one and see what happens!
For twenty years she served the God she loved unconditionally and the people of this area she loved almost as much, using her her courage and her talents to become a local legend.
The reader is also introduced to a host of local characters who were notable and admirable - or not - in their own right. Plus, this book is another confirmation of just how rough and lawless life could be living out west during the time period.
April 23, 2020
This book was so moving and inspirational. The adventures, challenges and people this young women met in carrying out her mission to God were remarkable.
Anyone interested in the history of the old West should read this book in addition to "Death Comes for the Archbishop" by Willa Cather and "American Ghost" by Hannah Nordlund. Sister Blandina, Archbishop Lamy and Julia Staab are all integral to these three books.
Anyone interested in the history of the old West should read this book in addition to "Death Comes for the Archbishop" by Willa Cather and "American Ghost" by Hannah Nordlund. Sister Blandina, Archbishop Lamy and Julia Staab are all integral to these three books.
May 31, 2011
This was a gift from my College of Mount St. Joseph Alumni Office when I won a history-trivia contest. Sister Blandina Segale was sent a missionary--by herself--to the western territory in the 1800's. This book is based on the diary/letters she wrote for her sister. This true story overlaps with Willa Cather's fiction story of Death Comes for the Archbishop.
July 2, 2019
Enjoyable Read
I like early pioneer and frontier stories. I seek out those written by women and this one did not disappoint. The language was quite different than I am used to but that is due to earlier times and the fact that she was a devout Catholic nun. This is a reminder of the times in which this story took place and the authenticity of the journal. Enjoy.
I like early pioneer and frontier stories. I seek out those written by women and this one did not disappoint. The language was quite different than I am used to but that is due to earlier times and the fact that she was a devout Catholic nun. This is a reminder of the times in which this story took place and the authenticity of the journal. Enjoy.
August 16, 2017
Sister Blandina is an absolutely fantastic story teller. Her diary to her sister reads like fiction. I greatly enjoyed getting to know both her and the early American southwest during throughout the book.
May Angels guard your footsteps.
May Angels guard your footsteps.
June 25, 2019
History of Charity in the southwest frontier
An interesting life was portrayed by a sister of Charity working
on the frontier. The description of the Apaches and Billy the Kid made a wonderful story.
An interesting life was portrayed by a sister of Charity working
on the frontier. The description of the Apaches and Billy the Kid made a wonderful story.
November 2, 2016
This is not a page turner, but it is still a compelling tale. Worth the time it takes to finish, especially if interested in American history.
March 19, 2017
History was interesting, writing was not compelling. Book clubbers agreed not our fave, but we had good discussions about class in NM dating back to the 1800s.
September 5, 2017
Fascinating stories of life on the trail and the southwest. Love Santa Fe aka the city of faith
April 15, 2019
Well worth reading
If you are interested in the history of New Mexico, the Southwest, and the impact of the Catholic Sisters, this is an excellent book!
If you are interested in the history of New Mexico, the Southwest, and the impact of the Catholic Sisters, this is an excellent book!
September 4, 2019
Story of a remarkable women
Unselfish courage and love of God and her people. A true pioneer who I influenced and made better many lives in the true American frontier.
Unselfish courage and love of God and her people. A true pioneer who I influenced and made better many lives in the true American frontier.
October 28, 2019
I really enjoyed reading the letters Sister Blandina sent to her sister describing her life and adventures as she served the people of Colorado and New Mexico.
November 21, 2019
Fabulous!!
Non stop action, chuckles as well as beautiful inspirational moments throughout! Sr. Blandina was a great Catholic, American, Woman and soon to be Saint, God willing
Non stop action, chuckles as well as beautiful inspirational moments throughout! Sr. Blandina was a great Catholic, American, Woman and soon to be Saint, God willing
December 4, 2019
It had some interesting bits, especially about Billy the Kid, but overall didn't grab me.
November 26, 2022
A fabulous find! Non-fiction inspiring, edifying, well-written, super interesting, first person account.
September 22, 2022
A wonderful companion book to Willa Cather's Death Comes to the Archbishop. The intrepid Sister Blandina joins the Sisters of Charity and is sent — at age sixteen — BY HERSELF — from Cincinnati to Trinidad, Colorado by train. Later her assignments take her to Santa Fe and Alburquerque.
Her wisdom in conversing with hostile parties, dealing with delinquents, and persuading stubborn souls to help build schools is winsome. When a wealthy Doña offered her vast estate to Sister Blandina's work, Sister, perceiving that the Doña would be impoverishing her descendants, refused.
A nun in the late nineteenth century had status and social stature that few women of that era had. She negotiated with powerful men. At age 25 she faced down a mob that planned to kill a murderer. She did not discriminate in providing medical care to sketchy folk, including Billy the Kid.
She cared for both the physical and spiritual needs of those who came to her with unflinching courage and with no complaints. Sister Blandina's character and impact resembles that of Mother Theresa.
Some quotes:
If this is His work it will succeed despite all opposition; if it is not His work we do not want it to succeed.
Money will not do it — nor Government Indian Schools either. A truly Christian life, combined with personal sacrifice prolonged into years, will accomplish what millions will not do.
Her wisdom in conversing with hostile parties, dealing with delinquents, and persuading stubborn souls to help build schools is winsome. When a wealthy Doña offered her vast estate to Sister Blandina's work, Sister, perceiving that the Doña would be impoverishing her descendants, refused.
A nun in the late nineteenth century had status and social stature that few women of that era had. She negotiated with powerful men. At age 25 she faced down a mob that planned to kill a murderer. She did not discriminate in providing medical care to sketchy folk, including Billy the Kid.
She cared for both the physical and spiritual needs of those who came to her with unflinching courage and with no complaints. Sister Blandina's character and impact resembles that of Mother Theresa.
Some quotes:
If this is His work it will succeed despite all opposition; if it is not His work we do not want it to succeed.
Money will not do it — nor Government Indian Schools either. A truly Christian life, combined with personal sacrifice prolonged into years, will accomplish what millions will not do.
April 7, 2022
Sister Blandina is so cool and I want her to be my bff. Such a neat journal of how life in the Wild West truly was. Her courage and wit shine and I feel like I have a better idea of the cultural heritage of my new home as well as a new saint bestie. Highly recommend for anyone looking to read about Catholic missionaries during this time period!
March 10, 2020
I was expecting this book to be a bit dry, but found myself unable to keep from falling in love with Sister Blandina's frankness, tenacity, and love for the people of the frontier. A great book for lovers of the southwest and an unadorned look at the brutal realities of frontier life
April 20, 2020
An excellent true story of self service
I really liked this book, though I am not a Catholic. Sister Blandina had a dedicated heart and did her best to serve God. I would be good to have a woman like this in any church or school.
I really liked this book, though I am not a Catholic. Sister Blandina had a dedicated heart and did her best to serve God. I would be good to have a woman like this in any church or school.
February 15, 2021
The fastest nun in the west. Tales from the old west and the life of a religious sister dealing with outlaws, bigotry, and the perils of the times. The book is comprised of entries she made in her journal that she planned to give to her sister to document all her adventures.
April 16, 2021
This sister led a very interesting life and did great service to the people she encountered on the frontier. She should be counted among the brave women who helped mankind and helped settle a country.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews