Scouting on two continents

Frederick Russell Burnham

One of the classic accounts of the Southern African frontier. Burnham first describes experiences as a scout in the American Southwest against the Apache. Almost half the book then describes the campaigns in Rhodesia in the 1890's . Burnham was one of only three survivors of Maj. Allan Wilson's last stand -- the Shangani Patrol. In the Second Matabele War, Burnham befriended Robert Baden-Powell and taught him 'woodcraft', the basis of Scouting, thus becoming the 'Father' of the international scouting movement. He left Africa to prospect for gold in the Klondike, but returned during the Boer War and became Lord Roberts' chief of scouts during the first quarter of 1900 - the period of Paardeberg & the occupation of Bloemfontein. He was commissioned, decorated with the DSO, describes a number of encounters with the Boers -- twice captured and twice escaped. Burnham returned to North America and became an active conservationist and a promoter of the Boy Scouts of America. Dobie, p. 85: “A brave book of enthralling interest.” Graff 498: “The first seven chapters relate adventures in the United States, particularly the Southwest.” Guns 333. Herd 373. As a young man the author “made a small stake by driving a bunch of wild Texas ponies up to Missouri and selling them, and for a time thereafter revelled in spurs, sombreros, all the picturesque equipment and life of a cowpuncher” (p. 21). Chapter on “The Tonto Basin Feud,” sparked by a rustling incident, as well as a chapter on “Cattle Lifting near Brakpan” discussing frequent Kafir stock stealing during the Boer War. Of Burnham, H. Rider Haggard said: “Burnham in real life is more interesting than any of my heroes of romance.” Theordore Roosevelt said: “I know Burnham. He is a scout and hunter of courage and ability, a man totally without fear, a sure shot and a fighter. He is the ideal scout.”