Caspar Collins. The Life And Exploits

AGNES WRIGHT SPRING

Publication: Columbia University Press, 1927, New York

First edition. 8vo. Brown cloth, 187 pp., frontis., foreword, illustrated, plates, portraits, appendix. Foreword by Major General Hugh L. Scott. Lt. Caspar Wever Collins was born in 1844 and died in battle leading troops against hostile Indians at Platte Bridge in 1865. Platte Bridge had been selected by the Indians as their objective for a concentrated attack because it controlled one of the most important crossings of the North Platte River on the Telegraph and Emigrant Overland route. Much on Plains Indian wars in part one of the book, while part two deals with Caspar Collins' letters. "Through the many letters of Lt. Collins, his father Colonel William Collins and his mother, we gain valuable understanding as to how life was during these turbulent times of the mid-1860's in central Wyoming. Indian depredations and butchery were everywhere during this time period, especially along the Emigrant Trail. It was Lt. Collins' responsibility to protect emigrant wagon trains and telegraph stations along the Sweetwater River. His letters are of utmost historical significance. We read of Indian encounters, the fickle weather and harsh climate, availability of game, sacrifices and misfortunes of the military, conditions at the outposts, names of pioneers and military personnel, etc." A fine copy. Dust jacket has darkening to spine, some occasional edgewear, 3 short scars on back panel, and light general, uniform dusty soiling.

Inventory Number: 52491