History of Early Steamboat Navigation on the Missouri River, Volume 2 (of 2): Life and Adventures of Joseph La Barge

"History of Early Steamboat Navigation on the Missouri River, Volume 2 (of 2)" by Hiram Martin Chittenden is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The work details the growth and challenges of steamboat navigation on the Missouri River, with a particular focus on the life and adventures of Joseph La Barge, a key figure in the river's commerce and navigation for fifty years. The narrative likely explores the intersection of commerce, the Civil War, and Native American relations during this pivotal period in American history. The opening of the book illustrates the tumultuous impact of the Civil War on Missouri River commerce, where La Barge's experiences as a Union loyalist reveal the challenges steamboat pilots faced during the conflict. It recounts episodes of guerrilla warfare that interfered with trade, as well as the complexities of delivering government supplies to Native American tribes amidst rising tensions. The narrative sets the stage for the exploration of La Barge's character and career while detailing significant events, including attacks on riverboats and the pursuit of trade in a changing and often dangerous landscape. The book promises to be a vivid recounting of both the personal and commercial histories woven into the historical tapestry of the Missouri River.