Action at Beecher Island: A Novel

Action at Beecher Island is a novel by Dee Brown that recounts the nine-day siege of 1868 between Plains tribes and Major James William Forsyth's scouts. Based on historical sources, the narrative is told from multiple viewpoints, including that of Lieutenant Frederick Beecher, a Civil War veteran tasked with clearing American Indian settlements to make way for the Kansas Pacific Railroad. The account includes perspectives from General Sheridan, Major Forsyth, and the scouts—ranging from experienced frontiersmen to young boys—involved in the mission. On the opposing side are the American Indian leaders Turkey Leg and Roman Nose. Through these varied characters, the novel depicts the 1868 siege and the differing worldviews of those living on the prairies. The ebook includes an illustrated biography of Dee Brown with rare photographs from the author's personal collection.