"Forty Years Among the Indians" is a memoir by Daniel W. Jones, a Baptist missionary who spent four decades living among various Native American tribes in the western United States during the mid-1800s. The book is a detailed account of Jones' experiences and observations of the different cultures, traditions, and daily life of the indigenous peoples he encountered. Jones describes his early years among the Creek Indians in Alabama, his time with the Choctaws in Mississippi, and his eventual move west to work with the Osages, Cherokees, and other tribes. He also discusses the challenges he faced as a missionary, including language barriers, cultural differences, and the difficulty of converting individuals who held deeply-rooted spiritual beliefs. Throughout the book, Jones expresses admiration for the Native American way of life and their strong sense of community. He also speaks out against the injustices and mistreatment of indigenous peoples by the US government and white settlers, calling for greater respect and understanding of Native American culture. Overall, "Forty Years Among the Indians" provides a unique and valuable perspective on the experiences of a missionary who lived among and interacted with various Native American tribes during a pivotal period in American history.
Daniel Webster Jones was born on August 26, 1830, in Howard County, Missouri He joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1848 and subsequently migrated westward to Utah with other Mormon pioneers. In 1856, Jones played a significant role in the rescue of the stranded handcart companies in Wyoming. He was one of the leaders of a group of rescuers who heroically wintered at Devil's Gate and helped save the lives of hundreds of emigrants. Jones also served as a missionary for the LDS Church, including leading the first Mormon missionary expedition into Mexico. He was also instrumental in colonizing what is now Mesa, Arizona, where he served as the city's first mayor. In addition to his religious work, Jones had a keen interest in education and was involved in the establishment of several schools in Arizona. He also served as the first superintendent of schools in the territory.
Jones was known for his frequent interactions with Native American tribes in the western United States and was respected by many indigenous peoples for his fair treatment and respect for their culture. Jones passed away on April 20, 1915, in Mesa, Arizona, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneering Mormon leader and advocate for education and cultural understanding.
