Colonel Hunter's account of Old West life takes us through the California Gold Rush and a variety of rip-roaring incidents across the United States' western frontier.

Full of beans and bristling with wit, Hunter introduces himself as an eager young apprentice. He accompanied his father, who aspired to strike it rich in the Gold Rush. Although riches eluded the pair, adventure did not: Hunter describes everyday life sifting for nuggets and dust in the rivers, and the towns which sprang up around such endeavors. Snippets of conversation, popular verses, and a variety of dramatic happenings enliven the tales, bringing color and life to scenes which unfolded long ago.

Later on, we witness how Hunter became an accomplished enforcer and scout who assisted pioneering settlers hoping to establish themselves in the Pacific Northwest. At the time, hostile outlaws and Native American tribes still roamed these northerly lands, and several dangerous combats are related herein. Yet the harsh wilderness and inclement weather posed their own challenges; often, Hunter and his crew were encamped far from civilization, and had to be resourceful to succeed.

In addition to the text, this book contains sixteen hand-drawn illustrations.