Five Years a Cavalryman, Or, Sketches of Regular Army Life on the Texas Frontier, 1866-1871

Brief Summary

First published in 1889, Five Years a Cavalryman, Or, Sketches of Regular Army Life on the Texas Frontier, 1866-1871 by H. H. McConnell is an insightful first-hand account of life as a cavalryman in the post-Civil War American frontier. The narrative focuses on McConnell's experiences during his five-year tenure with the Sixth U.S. Cavalry at Fort Belknap and Fort Richardson in West Texas. He provides a candid portrayal of the everyday challenges faced by the enlisted men and their officers.

Main Themes and Topics

The book delves into various aspects of army life on the Texas frontier. McConnell discusses the disorganization and lack of discipline among soldiers, noting their tendencies towards heavy drinking and theft. He also critiques the behavior of the Texas Rangers, whom he describes as more of a nuisance than a protective force in frontier towns. Additionally, McConnell offers a nuanced view of Native American relations, particularly highlighting the biased trial of Kiowa leaders like Satanta and Big Tree.

Writing Style and Tone

H. H. McConnell's writing style is straightforward and unembellished, yet highly engaging. His tone is candid and often critical, providing readers with an honest depiction of the life and challenges faced by cavalrymen at the time. His narrative is based on personal experiences, lending authenticity and a unique perspective to his accounts.

Criticism

While McConnell's frank account provides valuable historical insight, some readers may find the detailed descriptions of disorganization and misconduct among the soldiers to be overly critical. However, these elements contribute to the depth and honesty of the narrative, painting a vivid picture of frontier army life during this tumultuous period.