Before the Churches Came to Montana Mining Towns

 

Life in the early Wild West was anything but orderly, and religion didn’t play much of a role—at least not at first. In gold rush towns like present-day Montana's Bannack and Virginia City during the 1860s, daily life revolved around mining, money, and staying alive. Churches were nowhere to be found, and faith, if it existed at all, was something people kept to themselves.

Gold, Lawlessness, and Survival

Bannack sprang to life in 1862 with the discovery of gold along Grasshopper Creek. It was the first territorial capital of Montana and one of the most dangerous towns west of the Mississippi. Virginia City followed in 1863, growing rapidly after a major gold strike in Alder Gulch.

Log house in Bannack, Montana

In those early years, these weren’t towns so much as improvised camps full of makeshift cabins, gambling halls, brothels, saloons, and gunfights. Law enforcement was either corrupt or nonexistent, and vigilante justice quickly became the only reliable form of order. Some historians tell an opposite story, but the whole truth lies buried in boot hill. Either way, the situation was not good.

Faith—at least organized or public religious practice—was conspicuously absent. Historian K. Ross Toole described Bannack during its boom as “a place where whiskey was more common than bread, and where a man might be killed for his boots.” Churches were not only missing—they were largely unwanted by the rowdy, transient population.

What the Historical Record Tells Us

A rare first-hand account comes from Emily R. Meredith, one of the few women in Bannack in 1863. In a letter to her father dated April 30, she described a town overrun by lawlessness and “immorality,” with no mention of churches or spiritual gatherings. Her focus was on the absence of decency, not the presence of faith.

“There are many men here, but little order or kindness… The Sabbath is not observed, and the saloons are always full. I have not seen a Bible since my arrival.”

Saloon in Bannack, Montana

This silence about religion speaks volumes. In places like Bannack and Virginia City, religious life didn't take root until several years after the initial gold rush, when families began to settle and look toward permanence.

When Faith Arrived—And How

It wasn’t until 1866 that the first church service was held in Virginia City—three years after its founding. The Methodist Episcopal Church is often cited as the first formal religious institution in the area, and it began under the leadership of Reverend George Comfort. Prior to that, there were a few small prayer meetings or informal gatherings, often led by women or laypeople in their homes. But they were the exception, not the norm.

It’s also important to note that, even when churches were established, their presence didn’t immediately transform these towns into moral beacons. Saloons still outnumbered sanctuaries, and church attendance was sporadic, especially among single miners and drifters.

Hangman's Building in Virginia City, Montana

What began to change things was the gradual arrival of families and settlers planning to stay, rather than chase the next gold strike. Women played a pivotal role in shaping moral and spiritual life in these communities. They organized Sunday schools, started temperance movements, and lobbied for schools and churches.

Why This Matters for Historical Fiction

For readers—and especially writers—of Christian western historical fiction, this reality offers a more nuanced and compelling setting than the myth of a devout frontier. The early Montana camps weren’t filled with outward expressions of faith. Instead, if belief existed, it was often quiet, personal, and hidden under the daily demands of survival.

Characters shaped by this environment would wrestle with moral ambiguity, witness brutality, and find themselves far from the support systems of traditional religious life. Faith, if it emerged at all, would be hard-won—tested in isolation, forged through suffering, and practiced without the comfort of a church community.

That’s the kind of faith that rings true.  

Bringing History to Life—Responsibly

Many romanticized depictions of the West paint mining camps as places where faith always rode alongside the wagon wheels. The truth is more complicated. Faith didn’t lead the way—it often trailed behind, arriving only after greed had run its course and violence had exhausted itself.

But that doesn’t mean God was absent. It simply means that, in these early years, faith had no steeple. It flickered quietly in rare personal moments, waiting for a foothold in a land that had little room for it.

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Sources & Further Reading:

• Montana Historical Society Archives: Letters from Emily R. Meredith (1863)
• Montana: An Uncommon Land by K. Ross Toole
• A Decent, Orderly Lynching by Frederick Allen
• Montana Women’s History Project: Manuscript collections and diaries from early female settlers

About Janalyn Voigt 

Janalyn Voigt fell in love with literature at an early age when her father read chapters from classics as bedtime stories. When Janalyn grew older, she put herself to sleep with tales "written" in her head. Today Janalyn is a storyteller who writes in several genres. Romance, mystery, adventure, history, and whimsy appear in all her novels in proportions dictated by their genre. Learn more about Janalyn Voigt.

Discover Montana Gold
Based on actual historical events during a time of unrest in America, the Montana gold series explores faith, love, and courage in the wild west. Learn More

Heroes of the Wild West: Trail Guides

There’s something timeless about the Wild West. Maybe it’s the echo of hoofbeats on prairie ground or the image of a wagon cresting a ridge at sunset. For Christian readers of western historical romance, these wide-open landscapes offer more than scenic beauty—they provide stories of courage, faith, and the kind of love that thrives in hard places.

Imagine such a story with the hero as a trail guide. You know the type—quiet, rugged, full of knowledge and secrets. He’s the one helping settlers cross rivers, scale mountain passes, and make it to the other side of danger. He might not wear a tin star or ride into town with a posse, but he’s brave in ways that count. He leads others through the wilderness—sometimes even when he’s lost inside himself.

And what’s more romantic and evocative--not to mention literary--than a hero on a journey?

Real-Life Trailblazers

While fictional guides have captured our hearts, the history behind them is just as compelling—and even more inspiring. Let's look at three trail guides who truly walked the path, each with a story worth remembering.

1. Thomas “Broken Hand” Fitzpatrick

Thomas Fitzpatrick (1799-1854) trapper and Indian Agent; public domain image

Known as one of the most respected mountain men and trail guides of the 19th century, Thomas Fitzpatrick earned his nickname after a hunting accident, but his legacy runs far deeper. He led countless wagon trains west, including pioneers on the Oregon Trail, and helped guide military expeditions. Later in life, he served as an Indian agent and peacemaker, respected by both settlers and Native American tribes. Fitzpatrick was known for his integrity, fairness, and moral compass—traits that fit beautifully with the Christian ideal of servant leadership. His dedication to justice and peace makes him an excellent model for a trail guide hero grounded in faith and conviction.

2. Sacajawea’s Son: Jean Baptiste Charbonneau

Sacajawea and Jean-Baptiste sculpture in Washington Park, Portland; public domain image

Born during the Lewis and Clark expedition, Jean Baptiste Charbonneau was the son of Sacajawea, a Shoshone woman who was one of the most famous Native American guides in history. Jean Baptiste grew up multilingual and deeply skilled in frontier life. As an adult, he became a scout, guide, and interpreter. What makes his story unique is how he navigated two worlds—Native and European—just like many mixed-heritage trail guides in western fiction. His life reminds us of the deep contributions Native Americans made to westward expansion—and how God works through all people, across all cultures.

3. Medicine Calf (also known as George Bent)

George Bent in wedding attire for the camera in 1867. A survivor of the Sand Creek Massacre, Bent continued to translate for peace chiefs and Indian Agents of the Cheyenne; public domain image

Now here’s a story tailor-made for historical romance readers. George Bent, or Medicine Calf, was the son of a prominent Cheyenne woman and a white trader from Bent’s Fort in Colorado. Educated in both white and Cheyenne traditions, he later fought in the Civil War, then returned west to serve as a mediator, scout, and interpreter during a time of immense cultural upheaval. His mixed heritage gave him a unique perspective that helped him guide others—not just across physical terrain, but between two worlds at war. Imagine the kind of quiet strength and identity struggle he must have lived with. A character based on George Bent could easily step off the pages of a novel: scarred, spiritual, and steady in the storm.

These men, and others like them, weren’t just skilled at reading landscapes—they were navigating history, culture, and faith in incredibly complex times. And that’s part of what makes trail guides such captivating heroes in our favorite stories.

Why We Love Them

Trail guides often aren’t the loudest or flashiest characters. They’re the ones who’ve seen too much, said too little, and carry maps in their heads and burdens in their hearts. But in Christian romance, they often become the protectors, the steady hands, and sometimes the prodigals finding their way back to the Father.

They also have a habit of falling in love with strong, stubborn heroines who challenge them—ladies who are just as determined to survive the journey west and make a life out of the wilderness. These relationships aren’t built on ballrooms and pretty words—they’re forged in hardship, patience, and prayer.

And really, what better soil is there for love?

Final Thoughts

Maybe one of the reasons we love trail guides so much is because we’re all on a journey of our own. We might not be dodging rattlesnakes or crossing rivers on horseback, but we are trying to find our way. And just like in the stories, we need guides—mentors, pastors, friends—who’ve walked the path before us and can point us to truth when the trail gets hard to see.

Ultimately, the best trail guide in any story—and in life—is the One who promises to never leave us or forsake us. As Psalm 32:8 says, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.” Whether we’re walking the Oregon Trail or facing a personal wilderness, God goes before us.

So the next time you open a western romance and meet a brooding, Bible-carrying hero with trail dust on his boots and a mysterious past—pause and remember: you’re meeting someone with roots in real history. Someone who reflects the human longing for purpose, belonging, and the faithful God who guides us every step of the way.

Over to You

Which historical trail guide would you love to see as the inspiration for a romance hero?

About Janalyn Voigt

Janalyn Voigt fell in love with literature at an early age when her father read chapters from classics as bedtime stories. When Janalyn grew older, she put herself to sleep with tales "written" in her head. Today Janalyn is a storyteller who writes in several genres. Romance, mystery, adventure, history, and whimsy appear in all her novels in proportions dictated by their genre.

Learn more about Janalyn, read the first chapters of her books, subscribe to her e-letter, and join her reader clubs at http://janalynvoigt.com.

Fall in Love with the Wild West!

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Author Spotlight: Janalyn Voigt

Dorothy, the Cowardly Lion, The Swiss Family Robinson, Robinson Crusoe—I met all of them before I could read. Snuggling at bedtime usually came with a new chapter from one of the classics, read in my father’s deep voice. It vibrated, deep in his chest, as he brought fascinating stories to life for my brother and me. Often a chapter would end on a cliffhanger, and I would lie in bed that night imagining what would happen next in the story.

I still fall asleep at night asking the same question, but for the books I write.

Childhood Glimmers

My early storytelling spread to include the neighbor kids. They gathered in a circle around me as I made up tales, none of which I remember today. They must have been wonderful, I am certain, judging by the rapt attention of my audience.

Reading came naturally at an early age. I consumed the adult novels in my parents’ bookcase, numerous articles in my family’s set of encyclopedias, and began reading a dictionary from cover to cover. I loved words and their nuances, something I’ve often shared on this blog in my history of words posts. My vocabulary expanded, but mostly from reading. As a result, my pronunciations sometimes needed correcting. Even now, my editors occasionally question my use of archaic words and expressions.

I began recording the stories in my head on paper, although I didn’t share them with anyone. Due to a sixth-grade creative writing assignment, I drafted a tale about pirates and read it out loud to the class. The immediate, positive feedback startled me. My teacher kept me a few minutes after class, during which he encouraged me to become an author. This conversation marked the first time I considered writing a book of my own. Storytelling was a part of me, as natural as breathing, which is why I needed someone else to point out my calling. Now I couldn’t "unsee" it.

A Dream Come True?

The idea of a book I wrote getting published seemed remote. It took time, hard work, and grit—plus the Lord working in my life—for my dream of publication to come true. On release day for my debut novel. DawnSinger (Tales of Faeraven, book one), no one beat down the door wanting my autograph. Life went on pretty much as usual. I remember pausing in the middle of scrubbing a toilet, struck by the contrast of the dream versus reality. On launch day for Hills of Nevermore (Montana Gold, book one), I’d become more jaded.

I once purchased an oil painting for less than the cost of its frame. As a culture, we enjoy our artists but reward the artisans. Whenever I am tempted to think more of myself than I ought, I remember that fact.

Of the writing of books, as Solomon so eloquently noted in the Bible, there is no end. Gone are the glory days of the select few—the literary elite, if you will—making it into print. Amazon has made it possible nowadays for millions upon millions of books to see publication. With so much competition, it’s easy to feel like a needle in a haystack. That’s where faith comes in.

Learning to Fly

Like Wendy Darling and her brothers, I soared into the starry skies—at least in my childhood dreams. Neverland beckoned Blame it on my father’s bedtime stories, but the love of flying never left me. Peter Pan and Dumbo both had my heart. The Pegasus legend left me giddy. 

What would it be like to fly to adventure on the back of a winged horse? I wrote the Tales of Faeraven epic fantasy series to find out, and to bring readers along for the ride. Rather than dip into Greek mythology, I created a fleet of “wingabeasts” to carry Guardians of Faeraven as they sought to protect the life of a maiden destined to release the DawnKing, and his redeeming power into a divided land, with a single, pure song. I started this story as a single book, but DawnSinger blossomed into the four-book Tales of Faeraven Christian allegorical fiction series.

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Falling in Love with the Wild West

On a road trip home from a Yellowstone vacation, I visited Virginia City, Montana. This partially-inhabited ghost town captured my imagination. I learned of the Montana Gold Rush, when gold “stampedes” created boomtowns, outlaws rode out after stagecoaches, and a local vigilance committee sprang up in response. The hanging of Sheriff Plummer, who may or may not have led a gang of road agents, sparked my imagination. As I gazed out the passenger window at the beautiful grassland with a wide–open sky and the mountains blue in the distance, it struck me with a sense of awe. History happened here. Most of us know of the Wild West mythos, but what was it really like to live back in the day? I determined to write a series that would take readers along into the real Wild West, if I could discover it? The six-book Montana Gold series was born from these musing. Much research followed, including a return journey to Virginia City and Bannack ghost towns. The Montana Gold series explores real historical events as it follows the lives and loves of a family of Irish immigrants surviving in the Wild West.

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Future Musings

With two completed series, I took a much-needed rest. I’m tying up some loose ends before diving back into full-time writing. Whatever I write next, I’m sure it will be a romantic adventure. Maybe I should take up that pirate story again. What do you think?

You're Invited!

Thanks for taking time to get to know me a little. Let's stay in touch. You can reach me through my website at http://janalynvoigt.com. Click the "Join Creative Worlds" button to sign up for my newsletter. You can also find me on Facebook, Pinterest Instagram, BookBub, and Goodreads. I love to hear from readers! You can reach me on social media, through the form on my website, or by replying to one of my newsletters. The first ten people to contact me through my website before May 1st with the subject "Author Spotlight" will receive a digital copy of any one of my books. 

Heroes of the Wild West: Circuit Preachers

When you picture the Wild West, images of cowboys, saloons, and gunfights might spring to mind. Yet, another force shaped life on the frontier — the itinerant ministers determined to spread Christianity in an untamed land. These heroes of the Wild West brought spiritual guidance and a sense of community to settlers, even in areas lacking basic human needs — like shelter, food, and water. Circuit preachers earned their place of honor in Western history—and they did it the hard way.

Hundreds of Miles by Horseback

A circuit preacher traveled on horseback, sometimes for hundreds of miles across rugged terrain, to cover an assigned “circuit.” He moved from one settlement or homestead to another to offer religious services, sermons, and other pastoral care to settlers with little access to clergy. He often preached in unusual locations, including makeshift buildings, barns, or even open fields. 

The preacher returned to each settlement on a regular schedule that provided a sense of stability to settlers. Amid the violence, sickness, and loneliness they endured, they could look forward to his faithful arrival.

Author’s Note: While researching Hills of Nevermore, the first book in the Montana Gold series, one circuit preacher in particular stood out. I was charmed to read how Brother Van persuaded a saloon owner to close the bar and hold church for an hour one Sunday afternoon. He reportedly had the miners singing hymns. I decided as a tribute to base the character of Shane Hayes, the hero of Hills of Nevermore, on Brother Van. One of the liveliest scenes in the book is when Shane attempts to hold church in a saloon. 

The Incomparable Brother Van

William Wesley Van Orsdel, a Methodist minister, stands out as one of the most notable circuit preachers of the American West. Van Orsdel traveled west as a circuit preacher in the 1850s. Brother Van, as the settlers affectionately dubbed him, rode from one tiny, isolated community to another, preaching the gospel in homes, schoolhouses, and even the open air. His circuit took him enormous distances, through remote areas of what is now Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, and Nebraska. Needless to say, this tested his physical stamina, emotional endurance, and spiritual resilience.

Brother Van often faced perilous weather, health struggles, and the constant threat of danger on the frontier. Despite these challenges, his determination never wavered. He was beloved for his deep compassion, infectious optimism, and tireless work ethic. Brother Van’s ability to adapt his sermons to the needs of his audience made him an extraordinary preacher able to connect with people from all walks of life. The gift of speaking directly to the hearts of his listeners made him much beloved. In a world where the West was often defined by its tough, gritty nature, Brother Van’s compassion and faith brought hope to many.

The Importance of Circuit Preachers in the West

Circuit preachers like Brother Van were often the only ones who could offer a semblance of stability to the frontier’s isolated communities. The West was full of people seeking new beginnings — pioneers who had left behind their homes in search of opportunity. Many settlers found themselves far from civilization, with few, if any, resources to draw upon in times of crisis.

The church, therefore, became a critical institution in these frontier towns, offering not only spiritual guidance but also practical assistance. Circuit preachers were often involved in social work, helping to establish schools, orphanages, and hospitals in the harshest of conditions. They served as counselors to the weary, peacemakers in times of conflict, and sometimes even as the only voice of reason in the midst of the violent struggles that defined life in the Wild West.

The presence of these ministers in the West also had a significant impact on the establishment of communities. It’s no coincidence that towns often formed around churches, which became hubs for settlers to gather, share news, and provide support to one another. These gatherings were not only for worship but also for socializing and the building of relationships. In this sense, circuit preachers were pivotal in the formation of the social fabric of the Wild West.

The Challenges of the Circuit Preacher

The Circuit Preacher by Alfred Waud.

Circuit preachers lived hard lives. The demands of traveling hundreds of miles on horseback in often inclement weather and through dangerous terrain were daunting. Preachers faced physical exhaustion, health issues, and the constant threat of isolation. They relied on the hospitality of settlers to offer them food, shelter, and sometimes safety.

In many cases, they were forced to live off the land, surviving on minimal resources. It is a testament to their dedication that these preachers continued to serve—sometimes for years. Many never married and died young. Nearly half of the 737 circuit preachers the Methodist Church sent out prior to 1847 died before age thirty,

The Legacy of the Circuit Preacher

Circuit preachers of the Wild West brought hope and help to settlers of an unforgiving land. They built communities, brought solace in times of hardship, and provided constancy to offset the uncertainties of frontier life. Preachers like Brother Van left an indelible mark on history, reminding us that even in the wildest places, faith can shine its light.

These humble servants are unsung heroes of the West. Many of their names are lost to time but their influence remains an indelible part of American history.

About the Author

Janalyn Voigt fell in love with literature at an early age when her father read chapters from classics as bedtime stories. When Janalyn grew older, she put herself to sleep with tales "written" in her head. Today Janalyn is a storyteller who writes in several genres. Romance, mystery, adventure, history, and whimsy appear in all her novels. Learn more about Janalyn, read the first chapters of her books, and subscribe for updates at http://janalynvoigt.com.

Fall in Love with the Wild West

The Montana Gold western historical romance series follows the lives and loves of a family of Irish immigrants surviving in the Wild West. Read these stories to reaffirm your faith in the power of God's love. Learn More> 

A Wild West Christmas: Celebrating the Season on the Frontier

The Wild West is often romanticized in tales of cowboys, outlaws, and dusty towns, but during the Christmas season, it became a time of warmth, community, and celebration. Picture a small frontier town in the late 1800s, where the air is crisp and filled with the scent of pine and smoke from wood-burning stoves. Let’s take a closer look at how Christmas was celebrated in the Wild West, blending tradition with the rugged realities of frontier life.

Setting the Scene

As December rolled in, the townspeople would begin to feel the holiday spirit. Although many were far from the comforts of their Eastern counterparts, they made do with what they had, drawing on the strength of their communities. Towns like Dodge City, Tombstone, and Deadwood transformed into festive hubs, adorned with makeshift decorations crafted from whatever was available.

Decorating the Town

With no stores like we have today, the people of the Wild West had to get creative. Families would often head into the nearby woods to find a small tree or some evergreen branches. These would be trimmed and decorated with homemade ornaments. Corn husks, strings of popcorn, and bits of colored cloth became popular choices. In more prosperous homes, you might even find hand-painted wooden toys hanging on branches.

The community would come together to decorate the local church or meeting hall, where holiday festivities were often centered. Brightly colored paper chains made from old newspapers and ribbons would hang from the rafters, creating a festive atmosphere that lifted spirits during the long winter months.

Preparing for the Feast

Food was an essential part of any holiday celebration, and Christmas was no exception. While the menu varied depending on the resources available, many families aimed to prepare a hearty meal. Women spent days before the holiday baking pies, bread, and cookies. Gingerbread was a favorite, often shaped into stars or decorated with colorful icing.

Meats, when available, were often smoked or cured, and the community would come together to share whatever they had. A typical feast might include roasted turkey or ham, mashed potatoes, and seasonal vegetables. There was always a big pot of stew simmering, made from whatever game could be hunted or livestock raised.

The Importance of Community

In the spirit of togetherness, neighbors would often gather to help each other prepare. It was a time for camaraderie and connection. The holiday season offered a break from the hardships of frontier life, allowing families to come together to share meals, stories, and laughter.

Children, especially, looked forward to this time of year. They would help with preparations, their excitement palpable as they imagined the presents that might await them. Gifts were often handmade: a new pair of mittens, a carved wooden toy, or a jar of homemade preserves. These gifts, though simple, were treasured because they were made with love.

Christmas Eve Traditions

On Christmas Eve, townspeople would gather for church services, filling the pews with laughter and song. Caroling was common, and hymns would echo through the wooden structures, bringing a sense of peace and hope. The stories of the Nativity were shared, reminding everyone of the true meaning of the holiday.

After the service, families would return home to enjoy a modest supper and share stories by the fire. Children would hang stockings, often repurposed from old fabric, hoping to find small treats like candy or nuts in the morning.

In some families, particularly those with strong ties to Eastern traditions, there might be a ritual of reading "A Christmas Carol" or another classic holiday tale aloud, fostering a sense of nostalgia and warmth.

Christmas Day Celebrations

As the sun rose on Christmas Day, the excitement was palpable. Children would rush to their stockings, their eyes lighting up at the sight of small gifts and treats. It was a magical moment, filled with wonder and joy.

After the morning festivities, families would gather for their Christmas feast. The tables were set with whatever they had, adorned with simple but heartfelt decorations. They would take turns expressing gratitude, reflecting on the blessings of the past year, and sharing hopes for the future.

In many towns, a communal celebration would follow. Neighbors would come together for games, dances, and storytelling. The town hall or community center would be transformed into a festive space, with music filling the air as folks danced and celebrated together.

The Spirit of Giving

In the Wild West, the spirit of giving was alive and well. Many townsfolk would organize charitable efforts to help those less fortunate. Baskets filled with food, blankets, and other essentials were often delivered to families in need. It was a time for generosity, embodying the community’s resilience and unity.

Local churches played a crucial role in these efforts, reminding everyone of the importance of kindness and compassion. Many families would make it a point to help their neighbors, recognizing that a strong community could weather any storm.

Reflecting on the Wild West Christmas

The Christmas season in the Wild West was more than just a holiday; it was a celebration of community, faith, and resilience. Amidst the challenges of frontier life, people found ways to connect and uplift one another. The memories created during these festive times were cherished, passing from one generation to the next.

While the Wild West was known for its rugged individualism, it was also a time when the power of community shone brightly. The traditions and stories from these celebrations remind us of the warmth and joy that can be found even in the most challenging circumstances.

As we reflect on our own holiday traditions, it’s essential to remember the spirit of the Wild West: a celebration of love, hope, and unity, where every little gesture mattered. This Christmas, let’s embrace that spirit in our own lives, creating a tapestry of memories that honors both our past and our future.

So, as the snow falls gently outside, gather your loved ones, share stories, and celebrate the simple joys of the season. After all, it’s not about what we have, but about who we share it with that truly matters.

About Janalyn Voigt

Janalyn Voigt's unique blend of adventure, romance, suspense, and whimsy creates worlds of beauty and danger for readers in several genres. 

Learn More.

Western Historical Romance

The stunning epic western historical romance novel, Hills of Nevermore, kicks off Janalyn Voigt's Montana Gold series, which follows the lives and loves of a family of Irish immigrants surviving the Wild West through six novels.

Medieval Epic Fantasy

Beginning with DawnSinger, Janalyn Voigt's medieval epic fantasy series, Tales of Faeraven. carries readers into a land only imagined in dreams. 

The Captivity of Fanny Kelly: A Story of Faith and Resilience

Imagine that you're traveling across the American frontier, seeking a fresh start with your loved ones, when suddenly, everything changes in the blink of an eye. This was the reality for Fanny Kelly, a woman whose incredible story of survival and faith would become one of the most remarkable captivity narratives from the Old West.

In 1864, Fanny’s life took a drastic turn when she was captured by the Sioux, one of the most powerful tribes of the Great Plains. But instead of letting her circumstances defeat her, Fanny’s strength, perseverance, and faith in God carried her through months of hardship. Her story is one of tragedy, yes, but also of incredible courage, and it’s a reminder that no matter how bleak life may seem, God’s grace is always present—even in the darkest moments.

A New Life on the Frontier

Fanny Kelly was born in 1829 in Pennsylvania, and after marrying Samuel Kelly, she moved west with him to start a new life in Colorado. Like many settlers of the time, Fanny and Samuel were filled with hope for a better future as they journeyed westward. They were part of a wagon train that was making its way through southeastern Colorado. The year was 1864, and tensions between Native American tribes and settlers were running high as the U.S. government pushed westward, encroaching on the lands that many tribes had lived on for generations.

Library of Congress, Public domain

The Kellys, along with other travelers, were ambushed by a group of Sioux, Cheyenne, and Arapaho warriors. It was early in the morning on August 20 when the attack began. The settlers were unprepared for the brutal assault, and many were killed, including Fanny’s husband, Samuel. In the chaos, Fanny became separated from the group and was taken captive by the Sioux.

Library of Congress, Public domain

Life in Captivity

Fanny’s life changed overnight. She went from being a settler woman with a family, a home, and a hopeful future to a prisoner, surrounded by strangers. At first, the Sioux kept her with several other captives, mostly women and children. The conditions were harsh. Fanny was terrified, and it wasn’t just the physical hardship that wore her down, but the emotional toll of losing her husband and the uncertainty of her future.

The Sioux were not quick to harm their captives, but they didn’t exactly show mercy either. Fanny was forced to endure a life for which she was unprepared—struggling to survive on little food and enduring extreme weather while separated from everything she knew. The customs and language of her captors were unfamiliar, and she had to learn how to live in this new world, even though she didn’t want to.

But what stands out most in Fanny’s captivity is her faith. She was a Christian woman, and though she was far from her home and her church, she clung to the belief that God had a purpose for her, even in the midst of trial. During her captivity, Fanny would often pray, and though her circumstances seemed hopeless, her heart remained steadfast. In her darkest moments, she believed that God was watching over her, even when it seemed like no one else cared.

The Escape and the Journey Home

Fanny Kelly, Public Domain

After four months of captivity, Fanny found a chance to escape. One evening, the Sioux camp became distracted. Historians don't know the reason for the disruption. Some speculate that the warriors were preoccupied with gathering food or preparing for travel. Even a simple conversation could have created a lapse in vigilance. Fanny seized the opportunity and slipped away into the night. Alone, scared, and surrounded by wilderness, she nonetheless determined to survive. Fanny traveled through the unforgiving Rocky Mountains, not knowing if she would make it out alive but trusting God to guide her steps.



Fanny wandered in the wilderness for weeks, facing starvation, exposure, and the constant fear of recapture. Through it all, Fanny's faith, courage, and will to survive kept her going. Eventually, Fanny came across a group of soldiers that rescued her.

Although physically weak by the time she made it back to civilization, Fanny felt spiritually strong. She wrote down her story, which was published as Narrative of my Captivity Among the Sioux Indians.The book tells a story of courage, survival, faith, and ultimately God's deliverance that struck a chord with readers of her time, and it continues to inspire many today.

A Legacy of Faith and Courage

Fanny Kelly’s story is more than just a tale of captivity—it’s a testament to the power of faith, hope, and resilience. In a world that often seems out of control, Fanny’s unwavering belief in God’s protection and purpose reminds us that we, too, can face our own struggles with strength and courage.

Her experience reflected many of the trials faced on the frontier. It reminds us that even in the midst of great suffering, God can provide the strength to persevere. Whether in the wilderness of the American Plains or in the wilderness of our own lives, Fanny’s story shows us that hope is always worth holding onto.

As you reflect on Fanny Kelly’s story, consider how her faith and resilience might inspire you in your own life. No matter what challenges you face, remember that God is always with you, and He can help you find a way through—even when it seems impossible.

About Janalyn Voigt

Janalyn Voigt fell in love with literature at an early age when her father read chapters from classics as bedtime stories. When Janalyn grew older, she put herself to sleep with tales "written" in her head. Today Janalyn is a storyteller who writes in several genres. Romance, mystery, adventure, history, and whimsy appear in all her novels in proportions dictated by their genre.

Learn more about Janalyn, read the first chapters of her books and subscribe to her e-letter at http://janalynvoigt.com.

Cheyenne Sunrise

Many of the events in Cheyenne Sunrise (Montana Gold, book 2) are based on Fanny Kelly's account of her captivity. 

Bry, the heroine of Cheyenne Sunrise, travels West by wagon train to start a new life on her brother's ranch. When Sioux warriors capture her, she wonders if she will have the chance. The wagon train's half-Cheyenne trail guide rides after her, even though returning to his mother's tribe opens old wounds.

Cheyenne Sunrise and the six-book Montana Gold series is based on actual historical events during a time of unrest in America. Each book in the Montana Gold series explores faith, love, and courage in the Wild West. Learn more.

The Original Hurdy-Gurdy Girls: Innocence and Resilience in the Wild West

HurdyGurdy, a work by Jules Richomme
(1818-1903)

Picture the Wild West, and dusty trails, slapdash saloons, and never-ending sagebrush often springs to mind. These iconic settings are inhabited by the usual denizens—cowboys, miners, and stagecoach drivers, perhaps with an outlaw and sheriff thrown into the mix. And yet, women played vital roles in shaping the wild frontier. Scarcer than men, they had varied backgrounds. Some came west with their husbands, others came along with their parents and grew of age in the West. Others established one-room schools or to serve as missionaries. Women of ill-repute came west out of ambition.

And then there were the hurdy-gurdy girls. Embodying both innocence and resilience, they brought their music to Wild West saloons. The original hurdy-gurdy girls came from the German state of Hessia. Beginning in the 1840’s, some daughters of poor families sold handmade brooms on the streets of large cities to help their families survive hard times. Pretty and lively, these girls soon learned that performing helped them draw crowds and sell more brooms. Unfortunately, these young women came to the attention of unscrupulous individuals who enticed their families to allow them to come to America. The girls often agreed to entertain in the West in the hope of earning a lot of money to send home to their families.

The term "hurdy-gurdy" refers to a unique musical instrument that produces sound when the player turns a crank, which causes a wheel to rub against strings. This instrument has its roots in Europe, and particularly in Hessia. Hurdy-gurdy players often traveled as entertainers, performing at fairs, markets, and public gatherings.

In the saloons of the Wild West, hurdy-gurdy girls were more than just entertainers. They were integral to the social fabric of these establishments. As towns sprang up in response to the gold rush, saloons became gathering places for miners, traders, and adventurers. The music and performances offered miners a brief escape from the harsh realities of their lives. Hurdy-gurdy girls provided laughter, companionship, and a semblance of normalcy in a chaotic world.

Life as a hurdy-gurdy girl was not without challenges. Some enjoyed relative freedom and financial independence, but others faced exploitation and violence. Saloons were rough places, and the line between performer and victim could be thin. Some of the girls were treated with respect, but others fell into prostitution.

Hurdy-gurdy girls were entertainers but also individuals with hopes and dreams. They navigated a world that often marginalized them, yet many managed to assert their independence and earn a living through performing. These women were not passive figures in the Wild West but active participants in their own narratives.

Final Thoughts from Janalyn Voigt

I wrote Stagecoach to Liberty to explore the plight of the hurdy-gurdy girls who came to America from Hessia. One of my missions as a writer is to present the Wild West, minus the usual myths, for readers. I'd never given much thought to the backgrounds of the hurdy-gurdy girls until I stumbled across their history. A plot presented itself and grew over time. Elsa Meier was born, a heroine forced to entrust her safety to a complete stranger. 

Your Thoughts?

Have you heard of the hurdy-gurdy girls in the American West? Did the history of the original hurdy-gurdy girls surprise you? Can you name any western stereotypes, and do you think they are based on fact? Leave a comment and let me know.

About Janalyn Voigt

Janalyn Voigt fell in love with literature at an early age when her father read chapters from classics as bedtime stories. When Janalyn grew older, she put herself to sleep with tales "written" in her head. Today Janalyn is a storyteller who writes in several genres. Romance, mystery, adventure, history, and whimsy appear in all her novels in proportions dictated by their genre. 

Learn more about Janalyn Voigt.

Fall in Love with the Wild West

Based on actual historical events during a time of unrest in America, the Montana Gold series explores faith, love, and courage in the wild west.