Description
Book SynopsisWhen gold was discovered in the Fraser River country of British Columbia in the 1850s, St. Paul, Minnesota became the departure point for the plunge westward, as was St. Louis for the American gold rushes. Minnesotans soon caught the fever. Nine young men set out in July of 1858 for the goldfields of British Columbia.
Trade Review“The scholarly editing of the ‘overlanders’ journal of John W. Jones by Dwight L. Smith…has provided for the student of Western history a classic in his new book, Survival on a Westward Trek: 1858-1859.” * Journal of the West *
“Jones’ journal, with skillful editing by Smith, is an excellent primary source for overland travel in the 1858-1859 period…Jones’ work gives an excellent picture of this quest. Youthful and zestful enthusiasm and vitality — and even ignorance — come through in this journal, making it an enjoyable and worthwhile demonstration of the triumph of the human spirit.” * Overland Journal *
