Flagg's The Far West, 1836-1837, part 1

"Flagg's The Far West, 1836-1837, Part 1" by Edmund Flagg is an early 1800s historical record that pieces together travel letters detailing Flagg's experiences in the Middle and Far West, shining a light on the landscapes, native traditions, and developing American towns. The story follows Flagg as he moves through areas like Missouri and Illinois, adding his thoughts on the changing society. The book starts with Flagg leaving Louisville, Kentucky, diving into the busy steamboat businesses of the West. While sharing exciting dock and boat scenes, a sad accident with an injured engineer shows the tough side of things. Flagg's careful observations share the charm and harshness of early Western living, pointing out the awesome scenery but also the struggles that people faced back then.