She Knew No Fear: The True Story of Pioneer Jane McKetchnie Walton's Incredible Journey and Untimely Death

by Michael King, Bonnie King

Many stories have been told of pioneer journeys to the West. This story is not unlike many, but at the same time, it is like no other. Jane McKechnie Walton made the long journey from Scotland to the Utah territory at the tender age of six. She thought she had conquered the biggest challenges she would encounter in life—only to find she was mistaken. As an adult she would become part of a small group of settlers involved in an expedition of monumental proportions. These trailblazers would find themselves stranded 2,000 feet above the Colorado River with no means to turn back. Without options, the group relied on ingenuity and gritty determination to carve a sliver of passage through what is known as the Hole in the Rock. After forging through many more obstacles, Jane would finally find contentment in a new homestead only to die unexpectedly, leaving a mystery that would generate stories for years. One hundred years later, Mike King delves into this remarkable woman’s life and the questions surrounding her death.

268 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 24, 2021

About the author

Michael King was one of New Zealand's leading historians and biographers. In 2006 he was named one of 100 most important New Zealanders that have ever lived. He published more than 34 books in his lifetime. His last, The Penguin History of New Zealand, has sold more than 200,000 copies and is widely considered to be the definitive history of New Zealand. His work in literary biography - most notably Wrestling With the Angel, on the life of Janet Frame - also received great critical acclaim. He made many level-headed contributions to race-relations debates and is sorely missed by his country.

Reviews

[Donna Glawson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book of Mike Kings that I have read. The story of his great great grandmother, is so captivating. As we have all the modern day conveniences available to us in 2024, it is difficult to visualize what our pioneer families had to deal with on their journey from their homeland across the sea, to a settlement in the wilds of Utah. Mike has taken us through that trip of unimaginable hardship and loss, that his ancestors experienced. I was mesmerized by every word in that book. Mike has put years of research into his family ancestors, and even solved a crime. I’m so glad that I watch his “Profiling Evil” on YouTube. This book is a must read.

[Karen Chaney Long · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great, Great Grandmother’s Epic Journey

Enjoyed this book of hard work and family togetherness during an epic adventure across America. Jane Walton is a hero to the history of taming the wild because of God’s word.

[Lisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Book was interesting. Lots of history in it. Shows the pioneer spirit. The author solves the mystery his way....it could be right or not.