Phil Johnson's Life On The Plains

PHIL JOHNSON

Publication: Rhodes & McClure Publishing Company, 1888, Chicago

First Edition. 12mo. Pictorial Red Cloth, 358 pp. [2] of advg., Illustrated ."Rare" according to Adam's Herd. Howes P500 says "A cowboy autobiography preceded only by that of Siringo." Includes information about Johnson as a scout for the U.S. military during the Indian Wars, where he provided reconnaissance and guidance through unfamiliar territory; his encounters with Native Americans ... conflicts and instances of cultural interaction; skills needed to survive on the plains to include tracking, hunting, navigation, self-defense, etc. Johnson shares stories of near-death experiences, narrow escapes, and perseverance. The book also includes Johnson’s interaction with Buffalo Bill Cody and General Custer. Throughout, he reflects on the transformation of the frontier, lamenting the loss of the untamed wilderness and the arrival of settlers and railroads that changed the land forever. An attractive copy in near fine condition and only the 2nd copy we have had in 40 years! This work reprints TEN TEARS A COWBOY, by C. C. Post, published by the same publishing company in 1886. It was reprinted 3 times in the next 2 years, with varying authors(?), then renamed, and issued as the first edition of PHIL JOHNSON'S LIFE ON THE PLAINS, which continued to be reprinted at frequent intervals under various authors. It is this specific issue that is listed as a Merrill Aristocrat. Some light wear to corners and spine ends. Very good. Previous owners have written their name(s) in many places among the first several pages, as well as a few more on the last couple of pages, most in erasable pencil. On the first front free-endpaper is written twice, Z. W. Rains, Kansas City, August 13, 1889 and below that in the same hand, Z. W. Rains, Ball Knob, I.T., Chickasaw Nation. After the title page there are 7 full-page illustrations, and hand written, in pencil, on each one, are various caption-like descriptions, all making reference to Rains and Sharp (?): strangely implying that the illustrations are of them...Bill Rains and Sharp(?). Further research may help clarify any real association. Otherwise, a rare, early work on the life of a cowboy.