The author lauds Jed Smith for the extent of his explorations as being second only to Lewis & Clark, the author further noting in particular that JSS was traveling to make a living with beaver, not on government business. I agree with Professor Morgan, recalling that JSS was a big name to us as fifth graders but not much heard of in the 21st C.
The author was diligent in searching for material and cultivated librarians well. The letterbook of Thomas Hempstead is invaluable as the major puch westward of the mountain men in 1822 is considered.
As compared to Stanley Vestal's style in 'Jim Bridger,' Morgan is more the serious historian, as can be seen in Chapter One of the respective biographies that deal with the subject's early years where little is known.
This 1953 biography has been kept in print since 1964.
Good index, endnotes, and there is an appendix including several of his letters.
The author was diligent in searching for material and cultivated librarians well. The letterbook of Thomas Hempstead is invaluable as the major puch westward of the mountain men in 1822 is considered.
As compared to Stanley Vestal's style in 'Jim Bridger,' Morgan is more the serious historian, as can be seen in Chapter One of the respective biographies that deal with the subject's early years where little is known.
This 1953 biography has been kept in print since 1964.
Good index, endnotes, and there is an appendix including several of his letters.
