first edition 12mo., embossed light-brown cloth, gilt titles on spine; 175 pages
1863 · Boston
by DE SMET, Rev. P.J.
Boston: D. & G. Sadlier & Co., 1863. First Edition. A scarce early narrative about life among American Indians in America and Canada. A highlight of Western Americana, this is the true first edition, [Howes D285- listed as "aa" ("quite scarce"). Later editions were published from 1865 to 1885. Pierre-Jean De Smet [1801-1873), was a Flemish Catholic priest and member of a Jesuit). He is known primarily for his extensive missionary work in the mid-19th century among the Native Americans in the United States and Canada. His extensive travels as a missionary were said to total 180,000 and he was affectionately known as "Friend of Sitting Bull", as he persuaded the Sioux war chief to participate in negotiations with the American government for the 1868 Treaty of Fort Laramie. The Native Americans gave him the affectionate nickname De Grote Zwartrok (The Great Black Skirt). Includes A Vocabulary of the Skalzi (Koetenay Tribe) and The Short Indian Catechism, in use among the Flatheads, Kalispels, Pends D'Oreilles, and Other Rocky Mountain Indians." Plus, a biography of Louise Sighouin. a Coeur d'Alene Indian woman. [ HOWES D285, "aa."; STREETER 3071; SABIN 82267]. 12mo., embossed light-brown cloth, gilt titles on spine; 175 pages. Illustrated.. Very Good (very small stain front cover; spine bit dull; general light foxing & wear text- few pages once dog-eared; few library stamps & call number on a front blank page).
(Inventory #: 58055)