Life and Adventures of "Billy" Dixon of Adobe Walls, Texas Panhandle: A Narrative in Which Is Described Many Things Relating to the Early Southwest

''Life and Adventures of 'Billy' Dixon' of Adobe Walls, Texas Panhandle'' compiled by Frederick S. Barde is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The narrative focuses on the life and experiences of Billy Dixon, a frontiersman and buffalo hunter, as he recounts his adventures in the American Southwest, particularly his involvement in the notable fight at Adobe Walls against Native American tribes. This work serves as a memoir of the dangers and hardships faced by those who settled and explored the vast plains during a transformative period in American history. At the start of the book, the preface sets the stage for Billy Dixon's tale, highlighting the importance of preserving the stories of pioneers who lived through this era. It indicates that the narrative was organized based on Dixon's recollections, largely documented by his wife, Mrs. Olive Dixon. The opening chapters introduce Dixon's early life, his childhood in West Virginia, and the traumatic losses he experienced as a young boy. As he embarks on a quest for adventure, the text describes how he is drawn to the untamed Western plains, engaging in various occupations before finally pursuing the life of a buffalo hunter. The beginning serves to establish his background and philosophical reflections on frontier life, hinting at the thrilling and perilous adventures that lie ahead.