Author Description

This book purports to be the journal kept by Thomas Hartley, a young man who went to California with two of his friends las quick as a jack rabbit, despite opposition from his family and sweetheart, to make his fortune in the Gold Rush; however, the editor relates that the existence of Hartley himself cannot be verified. Be it fact or fiction, it is a delightful, whimsical romp thru the California Gold Rush of 1848. Thomas describes the trip from Massachusetts to the mining fields by sea, the city of San Francisco, the buying of tools, and their arrival at their claim in enthusiastic detail. The life of a miner was difficult, however. Illness, dishonest miners, thefts, gambling, and alcohol took their toll on the three friends, and they parted ways. Thomas eventually was successful but as a merchant rather than a miner. The book is chock full of humorous, colorful illustrations depicting the era. Thomas keeps a ledger of his earnings and expenditures, which adds tothe story. The text is witty, informative, and accurate, resulting in a painless way to learn about an unprecedented even in American history.