Edwin Bryant Libri

First published in 1848, What I Saw in California has long been recognized as the foremost trail guide for the Forty-niners. Almost overnight, Edwin Bryant became their authority on how to survive the grueling passage from Independence, Missouri, to San Francisco, and how to prosper in the Promised Land. He also served as a literary model for the diarists among them. His popular book was based on journals describing fully his "tour" west in 1846. For the Kentucky newspaperman, it had been an undertaking with an uncertain outcome, since the overland trail was still faint and the fabled, remote California was then in political turmoil. In fact, Bryant's party had headed straight into the Mexican War. For today's reader, What I Saw in Califorinia is more than a trail guide. It is a valuable primary source of information about the westering experience. In sharp detail, the book portrays births, weddings, and deaths on the trail and the strategies of men and women desperately trying to survive in the adventure of their lives. It introduces such figures as William H. Russell, Joseph Walker, John Charles Frémont, and Stephen Watts Kearny, and includes an early account of the Donner tragedy and of the kaleidoscopic life in California immediately following the American conquest. Its language fixes the restless, feverish wandering that characterized Edwin Bryant and so many of his generation.

The journal chronicles a journey through the Emigrant Route and South Pass of the Rocky Mountains to California during 1846-1847. Highlighting the experiences and observations of the traveler, it provides valuable insights into the historical context of westward expansion. The book is presented in its original format, preserving annotations and marks to maintain its authenticity. Its significance lies in its contribution to literature and history, serving as an important resource for future generations.

The journal captures the journey of an emigrant route through the Rocky Mountains and California during the years 1846-1847. It provides a firsthand account of the challenges and experiences faced by travelers in the American West. The work is part of a larger collection that documents the exploration, cultural dynamics, and historical events of the Americas from the late 15th century to the early 20th century. High-quality digital scans make this significant historical narrative accessible to a wide audience, including scholars and general readers.

The book is a facsimile reprint of an original antiquarian work, acknowledging that it may contain imperfections due to its age, such as marks and flawed pages. Emphasizing its cultural significance, the reprint aims to protect and promote literature by providing an accessible, high-quality edition that remains faithful to the original text.

Set against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, this vivid account captures the thrilling encounters between American hunters and various adversaries, including fierce Native Americans, Mexican ranchers, and wild animals. The narrative is filled with intense battles and dramatic details, offering readers a glimpse into the perilous adventures of the late 19th century. This reprint preserves the authenticity and excitement of the original 1889 edition, making it a captivating read for history and adventure enthusiasts alike.

Set against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, this book offers a vivid portrayal of the thrilling encounters faced by American hunters. The narrative is rich with animated details, capturing the intensity of their fearful fights in the wilderness. As a faithful reprint of the 1889 original edition, it provides readers with an authentic glimpse into the adventurous spirit and challenges of hunting in the American frontier.

Set against the backdrop of the American wilderness, the narrative explores the thrilling experiences of hunters as they navigate encounters with indigenous tribes, Mexican ranchers, and formidable wildlife. It offers an intimate glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of survival in the rugged Rocky Mountains, making it a captivating choice for readers intrigued by American history and adventure.