Your Affectionate Father, Charles F. Smith

Main Themes and Topics

"Your Affectionate Father, Charles F. Smith" by Allen Mesch delves into the personal and professional life of Lieutenant Colonel Charles F. Smith during a fascinating period of American history. The book revolves around themes of duty, family, and the personal toll of military life. Through a collection of letters written to his daughter, the book offers insight into the complexities of balancing military obligations with paternal affection in the mid-19th century. The backdrop of the Minnesota and Utah Territories during crucial historical events provides readers with an understanding of antebellum life in America.

Writing Style and Tone

Allen Mesch compiles the correspondence in a manner that captures the essence of Charles F. Smith’s voice—one that is candid, affectionate, and insightful. The writing style is straightforward and imbued with historical authenticity, allowing readers to feel as though they are directly privy to the intimate exchanges between a father and daughter. The tone is both affectionate and authoritative, reflective of Smith's dual roles as a military leader and a caring parent.

Brief Summary

The book charts the experiences of Lieutenant Colonel Charles F. Smith from his service in the Tenth Infantry Regiment to his participation in the Mormon Expedition. Spanning from December 1855 to March 1860, Smith’s letters to his daughter, Fanny, reveal not only his personal observations and fatherly advice but also offer a window into the era's socio-political climate and the rigors of military life. These correspondences provide a detailed and poignant glimpse into the life of a military family navigating the challenges and uncertainties of their time.