Army Letters from and Officer's Wife by Frances M. A. Roe

Army Letters from an Officer's Wife by Frances M.A. Roe

In the summer of 1871, Frances Marie Antoinette Mack embarked on a remarkable adventure, marrying West Point graduate Fayette Washington Roe and trading her familiar Eastern life for the rugged frontier. Her journey began at Fort Lyon, Colorado, where her vibrant chronicle of life as an army wife in the West unfolds. From the shadow of the Rockies to the vast expanse of Montana Territory's Piegan Agency and the Cheyenne country of Colorado and Indian Territory, Frances Roe's letters paint a vivid picture of the wilderness and the challenges and joys of frontier living. She details the realities of camp and garrison life—the difficulties with servants, the ever-present sand and shortages—alongside the pleasures of parties, newfound friendships, hunting, fishing, camping trips, and the companionship of her dog, Hal. A highlight of her account is a delightful description of a summer excursion to the newly established Yellowstone National Park in 1884. While men's Western memoirs often dominate historical narratives, Army Letters from an Officer's Wife offers a crucial and often overlooked perspective, showcasing the keen observations and unique experiences of a frontier woman in the 19th-century West.   

Why You'll Love This Book

Army Letters from an Officer's Wife offers a unique and intimate glimpse into the life of a woman on the Western frontier. If you're fascinated by Western history, women's narratives, or simply enjoy engaging personal accounts, this book is a must-read. Frances Roe's lively writing style and keen eye for detail bring the past to life, offering insights into the daily realities, social dynamics, and natural beauty of the 19th-century West. Readers interested in the challenges and rewards of frontier life, as well as those seeking a fresh perspective on this pivotal period in American history, will find this book a captivating and enriching experience.