The Captain of the Gray-Horse Troop

"The Captain of the Gray-Horse Troop" by Hamlin Garland is a book set around the turn of the 20th century, which follows Captain George Curtis, a dedicated officer who is assigned to oversee an Indian agency, as he navigates his responsibilities through complicated cultural and personal struggles. The story talks about themes of responsibility, identity, and the conflict between settlers and Native American tribes during a difficult time in American history. Starting in the harsh winter of the Bear Tooth Range, Captain Curtis, along with Sergeant Pierce, endures severe weather while trying to get to safety. Arriving at Fort Smith, Curtis discovers he's been appointed as an Indian agent, placing him in local political battles between settlers like the Streeters and the Tetong people. The beginning of the novel introduces Curtis's strong character and hints at the difficulties he will face as he tries to maintain fairness among differing interests and cultural disagreements.