Over the Rockies in a Ford

Introduction

“Over the Rockies in a Ford” is a story of an adventurous and daring journey undertaken by Bill Smalley and his partner Steve Bender as they attempt to cross the Rocky Mountains in an old 1917 Ford, facing numerous challenges and unexpected encounters along the way. Written on November 15, 1921, when Howard was in High School. About 3000 words.

Summary

Bill Smalley, known for his roving disposition, decides to make a tour of the western United States in an automobile after returning from a trapping expedition in Canada. When a friend claims that the Rocky Mountains cannot be crossed by car, Bill bets a thousand dollars that he can do it in a Ford. Bill and his partner, Steve Bender, take a train from El Paso to Cheyenne and then to a small town at the base of the Rockies. Bill refuses to buy a new car and instead purchases a ramshackle 1917 Ford.

The wagerer, Jenks, accompanies them to pick the toughest route across the Rockies, north of Fremont’s Peak. The journey begins on a rough trail that soon deteriorates into a treacherous mountainside. They navigate narrow ledges, using planks to cross washouts and ditches, with Bill driving and Steve frequently praying.

Their equipment includes cooking vessels, provisions, car parts, ropes, tools, chains, a pulley, block-and-tackle, planks, water, gasoline, oil, a Winchester .405 rifle, a Colt .45 revolver, a Colt automatic .38, an ax, and two hatchets. The first few miles are challenging but manageable. However, as the trail narrows and becomes more dangerous, their progress slows, and they rely heavily on the planks to traverse gaps and unstable ground.

Despite the difficulties, they make decent progress, though they face numerous setbacks, including blowouts and engine trouble. Steve takes advantage of Bill’s mechanical expertise to sit back and make sarcastic remarks while Bill repairs the car. Their journey continues with periodic stops for rest and provisions, and they encounter wildlife such as rabbits and game birds.

One afternoon, while resting, two large Blackfeet Indians visit their camp and demand whiskey. When denied, the Indians attack. Steve manages to knock out his assailant with his revolver, while Bill subdues his attacker by sitting on him. Fearing more trouble, they quickly leave the area.

The next day, they have an encounter with a panther that Bill kills with a well-aimed shot. They stretch the panther’s pelt on top of the car as a trophy. As they approach the summit of the Rockies, they face more mechanical challenges but eventually reach the top, enjoying the breathtaking scenery.

Their moment of tranquility is shattered when they are ambushed by a group of armed Indians, including the Blackfeet they encountered earlier. A gunfight ensues, with Bill and Steve successfully defending themselves. The fight is interrupted by the appearance of a gigantic grizzly bear, which chases the Indians away.

After dressing the wounds of the injured Indians, they are confronted by a bewhiskered man claiming to be an officer who demands money to avoid arrest for murder. Suspecting a scam, they manage to escape and continue their journey down the mountain.

The descent is easier than the ascent, and within three days, they arrive in Boise, where they collect their winnings from Jenks. They later learn that the man who tried to arrest them was a whiskey runner.

Characters

  • Bill Smalley: Adventurous and confident, Bill initiates the journey to cross the Rockies in a Ford. He is mechanically inclined and often takes charge of the situation.
  • Steve Bender: Bill’s skeptical and sarcastic partner, Steve often doubts Bill’s plans but follows along, providing a grounded perspective.
  • Jenks: The wagerer who bets Bill a thousand dollars that he cannot cross the Rockies in a car. He chooses the most difficult route for the challenge.
  • Blackfeet Indians: Two large Blackfeet Indians who attack Bill and Steve in their camp, driven by the desire for whiskey and money.
  • Gigantic Grizzly Bear: A huge bear that interrupts the fight between Bill, Steve, and the Indians, ultimately chasing the Indians away.
  • Bewhiskered Man: A supposed officer who tries to extort money from Bill and Steve by threatening them with arrest for murder. He is later revealed to be a whiskey runner.

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