This book is an anthology of stories of early-day Montana pioneers, those who settled in the state prior to 1869. Eighty-nine families provided their families' recollections for this book, creating an invaluable record of the Montana version of "The Great Westward Movement." These are the stories of those rugged individuals of all nationalities and walks of life who brought their knowledge, skills, customs and traditions to the Montana Territory. Whether they were fleeing war or oppression, seeking new identities and opportunities, or perhaps simply looking for adventure, they all laid a solid foundation for modern Montana.
In these 450 pages, historians and fans of early Montana history will find real stories that go beyond the widely-told tales of Montana "great men" like Fergus, Stuart, and Kohrs. These tales are personal, representing the vast majority of early Montana pioneers. The book originated as an idea at the 1997 Sons and Daughters of Montana Pioneers' state convention in Virginia City, Montana and culminated in its 2001 original publication date, supported by the Sons and Daughters of Montana Pioneers, who are still active today.