An Account of the Remarkable Occurrences in the Life and Travels of Colonel James Smith, (Late a Citizen of Bourbon County, Kentucky,) During his Captivity with the Indians in the Years 1755,’56, ’57, ’58, & ’59…

12mo publishers boards, 162 pp.Binding worn, and one signature is somewhat separated, but still in tact. Early owner’s signature and comments on endpaper; the usual browning, foxing and staining. This work was first published by Smith in 1799 almost forty years after his captivity. The present edition was reprinted from the second edition in 1831. The story begins when Smith was part of a 300 man group assigned to build wagon roads near Fort Loundon in the province of Pennsylvania. While seeking provisions, Smith and a companion were attacked by Indians. His friend was killed and scalped, and Smith ended up the prisoner of the Delawares. He kept a diary about his many experiences, and shares observations on how Indians conduct war. Although he sees some Indian ways as cruel and inhuman, he also appears to have respect for them. He also reminds the reader that some white men are as cruel and inhuman as the Indians. He mentions an incident when a group of white men entered an Indian town in Ohio, after they were received in a non hostile way by the Native Americans; they massacred every man, women and child in the village. “This was an act of barbarity beyond any thing I ever saw committed by the savages themselves.” Ayer 267. Howes S606. Sabin 82765.