The Shirley Letters: From the California Mines, 1851-1852 Book

The Shirley Letters, in a way, don't deserve to be reviewed because they weren't written as literature. They are what they are, letters from a sister to her beloved sister, written from the California gold mine camps in 1851-1852. Except these letters are very special, filled with description, candor, and charm, from the pen of a woman who was educated, talented, and witty. The 23 missives made their way to Pioneer magazine, and I am glad they did, because the rich trove of 19th century lore, camp culture, geography, history, and daily living Louise Amelia Knapp Smith Clappe ("Dame Shirley," 1809-1906) recorded in them remains a treasure for the rest of us to enjoy to this day.

In 1849 Dame Shirley left Massachusetts to follow her husband, a doctor, to the mining camps. Her letters to her sister detail her experiences in the camps and later in San Francisco. She spares no detail in describing the rugged but beautiful West, the problems of crime and resulting whippings and hangings, the problems between whites and the Indians and immigrants, her simple cabin, and her efforts to establish gracious living in the wilds. As I read her letters I can't ignore the obvious: Dame Shirley loved to write, found joy in describing her new life in the Wild West, and exulted in the raw beauty of unspoiled creation. Her writing is energetic and lively, a great resource for anyone who desires to write about daily living during the Gold Rush period.

The Shirley Letters include a very informative introduction and illustrations (reprints) of mining country scenes of that era, particularly the camps around the Feather River.