Legends of the Old West: Mountain Men Ep. 3 | “Hugh Glass: The Grizzly Bear”

Host/Author: Black Barrel Media
Host: Chris Wimmer
Release Date: September 25, 2024

Introduction

In Episode 3 of Legends of the Old West, titled “Hugh Glass: The Grizzly Bear,” host Chris Wimmer delves deep into the harrowing tale of Hugh Glass, a legendary mountain man whose story of survival and resilience has echoed through American frontier lore. This episode meticulously recounts Glass's near-fatal encounter with a grizzly bear, his abandonment by fellow trappers, and his extraordinary quest for survival against all odds.

Background of Hugh Glass

[00:42] Chris Wimmer:
“Hugh Glass, a man known by all of his companions for his resilience and strength, was already a seasoned frontierman before joining William Ashley and Andrew Henry's expedition. His early life was shrouded in adventure and adversity, with tales of captivity by pirates and encounters with Native tribes.”

Glass's reputation for toughness preceded him, making him an invaluable member of the Ashley Henry Fur Company. Alongside notable figures like Jedediah Smith and Jim Bridger, Glass embarked on expeditions that would test the limits of human endurance.

The Bear Attack

[07:15] Chris Wimmer:
“Hugh Glass moved quietly. His experienced eyes scanned the terrain for signs of game. Then behind him, the silence was shattered by the ominous crack of branches.”

While scouting for food alongside fellow trappers at a promising hunting ground, Glass encountered a massive 700-pound grizzly bear defending her cubs. Despite his skilled marksmanship, Glass's rifle only grazed the bear, provoking a ferocious attack that left him grievously injured. The bear's assault resulted in catastrophic wounds, including torn flesh, broken bones, and severe damage to his head and torso.

Abandonment by Fitzgerald and Bridger

[12:46] Chris Wimmer:
“When Andrew Henry and the rest of the trappers disappeared from sight, John Fitzgerald and Jim Bridger set to work constructing a makeshift camp next to Hugh Glass.”

Facing insurmountable injuries and the imminent threat of infection, the expedition leader, Andrew Henry, made the excruciating decision to leave Glass behind. He called for volunteers to stay and care for Glass until death. John Fitzgerald, a seasoned trapper, and Jim Bridger, a young and eager member, stepped forward. However, as days passed with Glass showing no signs of recovery, Fitzgerald grew impatient and ultimately decided that their survival depended on abandoning Glass. Despite Bridger's initial reluctance, the overwhelming circumstances led both men to leave Glass to his fate.

Survival and Journey

[18:22] Chris Wimmer:
“Somewhere deep within him, a fierce determination took root. He knew that if he succumbed to despair, he would die alone in the trees.”

Left alone and gravely wounded, Glass faced the ultimate battle for survival. With no tools, minimal supplies, and severe injuries, he crawled toward a nearby spring to quench his thirst and began scavenging for food. Using maggots to clean his wounds and berries to sustain himself, Glass demonstrated extraordinary willpower. He fashioned makeshift splints for his broken leg and utilized his remaining resources to protect himself from the elements and predators.

Confrontation with Bridger

[24:37] Chris Wimmer:
“Jim Bridger stood frozen, his face a mask of shock and fear... I forgive you.”

After an arduous journey marked by pain and perseverance, Glass eventually made his way to Fort Kiowa. There, he encountered Jim Bridger, one of the men who had abandoned him. Facing Bridger, Glass confronted him about the betrayal. Despite his intense desire for revenge, Glass restrained himself, choosing instead to offer forgiveness. This pivotal moment highlighted Glass's profound strength and capacity for mercy, contrasting sharply with the harshness of frontier life.

Legacy and Conclusion

[26:00] Chris Wimmer:
“Like many of the mountain men, Hugh Glass became a legend in his own time. His story of survival and resilience echoed through the remaining years of the mountain man era.”

Hugh Glass's tale did not end with his confrontation with Bridger. His legend continued to grow, inspiring countless retellings in literature, film, and other media. While dramatizations like The Revenant emphasize his quest for revenge, the true story reveals a man constrained by circumstances, embodying both vengeance and forgiveness.

Notable Quotes

• Chris Wimmer at [07:15]:
  “Hugh Glass moved quietly. His experienced eyes scanned the terrain for signs of game.”

• Chris Wimmer at [18:22]:
  “Somewhere deep within him, a fierce determination took root. He knew that if he succumbed to despair, he would die alone in the trees.”

• Chris Wimmer at [24:37]:
  “Jim Bridger stood frozen, his face a mask of shock and fear... I forgive you.”

Upcoming Episodes

In the next episode of Legends of the Old West, the story of Hugh Glass continues as he embarks on the Santa Fe Trail, participates in the rendezvous at Bear Lake, and faces another deadly encounter with the Arikara. This ongoing saga promises to delve deeper into Glass's life as an explorer and trapper, further cementing his legacy in the annals of the American frontier.

Credits:
Researched and written by Matthew Kearns. Original music by Rob Valliere. Host and producer Chris Wimmer.

This summary captures the essence of Episode 3, focusing on Hugh Glass's incredible survival story while omitting advertisements and non-content sections, ensuring a coherent and engaging narrative for those unfamiliar with the episode.