Wau-bun, The Early Day in the Northwest

Originally published in 1856, and then edited (with notes and introduction) by Louise Phelps Kellogg and republished in 1930, there is no better description of early Chicago and the famous Fort Dearborn Massacre to be found anywhere than that contained in Wau-bun, The Early Day in the Northwest.

Among the familiar characters who come into the story are Governor James D. Doty, Jefferson Davis, John Lowe, Col. Wm. S. Hamilton, son of Alexander Hamilton, Eleazar Williams, Augustin Grignon, Jacques Porlier, Chief Four Legs, and many others.

The garrison life at Forts Howard and Winnebago, the dangerous passage of the rapids of the Fox River in the Mackinac boats, and the customs of the Wisconsin Indians of the period are all vividly told in this classic.

Unmissable American historical literature.

“Mrs. Kinzie’s account of the early day in Wisconsin is delightful; it sparkles with humor and with the pleasure of youth in new and strange adventures. The spirit of happiness pervades it and the author’s affectionate sympathy for her husband’s Indian ‘children’ shines on every page. Her description of travel and its vicissitudes in Wisconsin of the early day is full of fun and jollity. She was what we would call today a ‘good sport,’ taking everything with philosophy and good will. The feast of good things is spread for the reader; all that remains is enjoyment of the narration.”—Louise Phelps Kellogg, Introduction