Deerfoot in The Mountains

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

25334

Title

Deerfoot in The Mountains

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Set in the mid-19th century American West, this adventure follows the heroic Shawanoe boy, Deerfoot, and his Blackfoot companion, Mul-tal-la, as they journey from the Ohio to the Pacific. Facing harsh winters, rival tribes, and spiritual challenges, the trio demonstrates courage, loyalty, and moral integrity while navigating the wilderness and encountering the historic Lewis and Clark expedition.

Summary up to 500 words

Edward Sylvester Ellis's *Deerfoot in the Mountains* chronicles the final, arduous leg of a grand expedition undertaken by Deerfoot the Shawanoe, Mul-tal-la the Blackfoot, and the twin brothers George and Victor Shelton. Having traveled from the Ohio River to the Pacific Ocean, the group stands on the Columbia River, gazing at the vast ocean and contemplating the future of both white and red men. Their journey eastward proves difficult, involving long portages and cold nights where the boys must resist the temptation to steal firewood, adhering to Deerfoot's strict moral code that it is better to freeze than to steal. Upon reaching the Blackfoot country, they meet Chief Taggarak, who initially rejects Deerfoot's Christian faith, threatening the boy's life. Undeterred, Deerfoot remains steadfast in his beliefs, eventually earning the respect of the tribe. The narrative includes a poignant subplot involving the death of Deerfoot's beloved horse, Whirlwind, and a mysterious spiritual visitation to Deerfoot's father after the boy's apparent passing. The story blends thrilling frontier action with profound themes of friendship, religious conviction, and the clash between indigenous traditions and new worldviews, concluding with a reflection on the enduring legacy of these brave youths. The novel opens with the group ascending the Columbia River, facing severe currents and portages. Despite the harsh conditions, the party maintains unity. A significant test of character occurs when the group stops to encamp near a pile of lumber belonging to others. Although tempted by the cold, Victor and George resist stealing the wood, citing Deerfoot's principle that using property without permission is a sin. This discipline highlights the group's integrity. Upon arriving at the Blackfoot village, the boys face cultural and religious barriers. Chief Taggarak questions their faith, demanding to know if Deerfoot teaches the religion of the red men or the pale-faces. When Victor and George affirm their belief in a Great Spirit who commands peace and forgiveness, the chief reacts with scorn, threatening to kill Deerfoot if he attempts to convert the tribe. The boys are forced to wait in uncertainty, fearing for their friend's safety. The tension resolves when Deerfoot returns, having successfully retrieved Whirlwind from a remote pasture. He shares the story of his journey with his friends, revealing the dangers he faced alone. In a moment of profound faith, Deerfoot tells his worried brothers that he can deny nothing because "There was One who died on the cross for you and Deerfoot." This declaration solidifies their bond and their resolve. The novel concludes with a supernatural twist. After Deerfoot's apparent death, the narrative shifts to a vision experienced by his father. The chief reports that Deerfoot visited him in spirit, appearing without his usual eagle feathers or weapons. In this ethereal encounter, Deerfoot comforts his father before departing, leaving behind a legacy of bravery and spiritual strength that transcends the physical world. The story ends on a note of hope, suggesting that the true spirit of the Shawanoe lives on beyond the grave.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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data/epubs/pg25334.epub

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Categories

• Adventure
• Indians -- Juvenile fiction