Rachel Plummer's Narrative of 21 Months Servitude As a Prisoner Among the Comanche Indians

by Rachel Plummer

Genres: History, American History

Hardcover

Reviews

[Rita]

I am currently listening to the book about Quanah Parker, and this narrative is discussed in detail. I was able to download a version of this book from, I believe, the Houston Public Library. It is divided into 3 sections, the first being an account written by her father of the raid at Parkers Fort and his subsequent search for Rachel and the other captives. The second section is rather long and kind of boring. It gives a very detailed geographical description of Texas and also includes a history of the country. It ends with advice for those emigrating to Texas.
The final section is Rachel's narrative. This is fairly brief but an interesting look at an intelligent young woman who was strong and learned to persevere until she was rescued. It is unfortunate that she did not live long after her rescue. History buffs will only want to learn more.

[James]

Not an easy read for two reasons.

The 1800s writing style forced you to read a little slower to understand what they were trying to convey.

The events she described while she was in captivity were quite extreme especially went it came to her babies.

Overall a good book about life in Texas during the early 1800s.

[Kathie]

Provided insight to what life was like for a girl in Texas.

[Sean Morrow]

Short account of a woman's abduction and abuse by the Comanches, with some side ramblings about wildlife and the Providence of Almighty God.

[Lesewolf]

I can only recommend the book to anyone who wants a sober insight into the time, especially in combination with the book about her cousin Cynthia Ann Parker, you get a nuanced overall picture.

[Charles]

I have a later version of this. It's hard to decide how to rate it. On the one hand, it's really interesting history and gives a view into some experiences that few people ever lived through on the American frontier. On the other hand, it is very slow reading and rather boringly written.

For history buffs, a definite yes. But if you're looking for any kind of exciting read then you aren't likely to find it here.

[John Horst]

What struck me is the similarity of experience by Rachel Plummer and Sarah Ann Horn, another excellent read about this fascinating and terrible time in history. Emotionally, this is a difficult thing to read, but worthwhile to any student of history.