Alias Soapy Smith: The Life and Death of a Scoundrel

by Jeff Smith

biography of Alaskan pioneer

Genres: Biography

628 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 2009

About the author

Jeff Smith is the great-grandson of Jefferson Randolph ("Soapy") Smith II.

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See authors with similar names.

Reviews

[Mark Mitten · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the by far the most thorough and authoritative biography of the greatest con man in the Old West, Jefferson "Soapy" Smith. I've read several other accounts in print, by other authors, and occasional contradictions of historical information make me think that there is a bit of legend and lore out there, clouding the truth. But Alias is written by Soapy Smith's great grandson, Jeff Smith, who has immersed himself in his infamous forefather's history, determined to set the story straight, and it shows. This is a Must Have!

[Roger Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good and informative book about the life, career, and violent death of "the King of the Frontier Conmen." Jeff Smith, the great grandson of Jefferson "Soapy" Smith, uses extensive research and documentation to reveal a complex character. A villain with a heart of gold.

[M.E. Rostron · Rating 5 out of 5]

The authoritative biography of "Soapy" Smith. An incredibly well researched biography, bolstered by a very informative and well done website. Compulsively readable for readers interested in the history of Skagway and late nineteenth century Colorado. Fans of Western history—buy it—read it!