Mary and I: Forty Years with the Sioux

"Mary and I: Forty Years with the Sioux" by Stephen Return Riggs is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work chronicles the life and experiences of Riggs and his wife, Mary, as missionaries among the Sioux Nation over a period of forty years. It provides insight into the missionaries' efforts to evangelize the Dakota people, detailing both the challenges they faced and their successes in fostering connections with the local community. At the start of the narrative, Riggs reflects on their background and the providential events that led them to become missionaries among the Sioux. He recounts their early days at Fort Snelling, where they first encountered the Dakota people, and the various introductions to missionary life that awaited them. The couple's commitment to learning the Dakota language and adapting to their environment is highlighted. Riggs shares Mary's early letters which convey their experiences during this challenging journey, providing glimpses into their faith, the relationships they built, and the hardships endured as they worked to share the gospel with the Dakota people.