My Army Life and the Fort Phil Kearney Massacre, by Frances C. Carrington

“Massacre” references the 1866 Indian battle with a company of US troops under Captain William Fetterman on the Wyoming plains near Fort Phil Kearny (spelled Kearney by the author). Fetterman and his entire force of 80 men were killed, including Lt. George Grummond, first husband of the author. Carrington’s book was originally published in 1910, and although seemingly biased in presenting the story, she was there when it occurred. Her descriptions of Western army life are illuminating, earthy and remarkable with keen observations.