An Army Wife on the Frontier

the long version

Life in the Indian-fighting army was hard, for wives and husbands. The frail young woman from "back East," whisked to the Indian-active West by a knight errant in officer's dress, often found her duties much more than those of an ordinary helpmate. The regular household and wifely tasks were performed, but frequently under unusual and trying circumstances. Years of anxiety took their toll. Childbearing was dangerous and unattended, while family life suffered from a too often absent husband. Housing accommodations at frontier posts were shabby at best, if officer's quarters were even available. Indian attacks were always a potential threat, though the ever-present insects, snakes, and rodents were a more realistic fear. In far too short a time the bride's age was no longer accurately reflected in her wrinkled face. Clearly, the wife earned her husband's promotions as much as he. Ms. Baldwin was an articulate woman who lived an interesting life. She was intelligent and spunky, dedicated to the Old Army Her memoirs give information and anecdote from a seldom heard corner -- the reluctant campaigner, the woman who waits at home.