The Californios Versus Jedediah Smith 1826-1827. A New Cache Of New Documents

DAVID J. WEBER

Publication: The Arthur H Clark Company, 1990, Spokane

First edition. Red Cloth, 82pp. Introduction, map, appendices, index. Published for the first time are letters from two newly discovered bundles of documents regarding Smith's activities which were found in Mexico's national archives in 1984 and 1985. Offers new insights to the story of Jedediah Smith’s sojourn in Mexican California, offering the Mexican side of Smith’s often told tale. The manuscripts also put new light on Smith showing him as more devious and much less innocent than he asserted in his journal. The documents include letters from Harrison Rogers and Smith to Mexican officials and correspondence among the officials themselves. Weber briefly retells Smith’s tale and includes the new material to give the Mexican version of events. This serves to remind us that this was their country and that misgivings about American trappers were rational and well founded. An important addition to the known history of Smith's time in California. Fine copy.

Inventory Number: 51850