Legends of the Old West: Episode 4 - “Hugh Glass: That Reckless Breed Of Men”

Host: Black Barrel Media
Release Date: October 2, 2024

1. Introduction to Hugh Glass and the Mountain Men Era

In this episode of Legends of the Old West, Matthew Kearns delves into the extraordinary life of Hugh Glass, a quintessential mountain man whose resilience and adventurous spirit personify the rugged American frontier. Chris Wimmer introduces the season's focus on early American expansion, highlighting figures like Jedediah Smith, Hugh Glass, and Jeremiah Johnson. This installment specifically centers on Hugh Glass, exploring his infamous bear attack, subsequent survival, and relentless pursuit of vengeance.

2. The Bear Attack and Abandonment (August 23, 1823)

At [01:14], Kearns recounts the harrowing event on August 23, 1823, when Hugh Glass was brutally attacked by a grizzly bear while part of Andrew Henry's trapping expedition. The bear fiercely protected its cubs, leaving Glass clawed, chewed, and mauled. The severity of his injuries led his comrades, seasoned trapper John Fitzgerald and novice Jim Bridger, to believe Glass would not survive.

Faced with the prospect of Glass’s demise and potential threats from hostile Native Americans or another bear, Fitzgerald convinces Bridger to abandon Glass. They left him with his rifle and knife, covering him with the bear’s hide, planning to return two days later for a proper burial. However, Glass defied all odds by surviving against expectations.

Quote: "Hugh Glass refused to die." [02:05]

3. Glass’ Trek to Survival and Partial Reconciliation (1823-1824)

Defying his grave injuries, Glass embarked on an arduous journey spanning hundreds of miles back to civilization. His determination was fueled by a desire for revenge against Fitzgerald and Bridger. Upon reaching Fort Henry near the confluence of the Missouri and Yellowstone Rivers in present-day North Dakota, Glass chose to forgive the young Bridger, recognizing his inexperience.

His quest led him to confront Fitzgerald, now part of the army under Colonel Henry Leavenworth at Fort Atkinson in Nebraska. Although Glass reclaimed his rifle, he could not exact further revenge. By summer 1824, his battle for survival concluded, and the grateful soldiers of the 6th Regiment raised $300 to aid Glass’s return to St. Louis.

Quote: "Glass had a change of heart." [05:45]

4. The Rise of the Santa Fe Trail and Glass’ Ventures (1824-1825)

Upon his return to St. Louis, Glass leveraged his notoriety by partnering in the burgeoning Santa Fe Trail trade. William Becknell had successfully navigated this perilous route in 1821, proving its viability for the fur trade and American westward expansion. Glass's involvement signaled a shift toward more organized trading endeavors, utilizing canvas-covered wagons that revolutionized overland transport.

In 1824, as Andrew Henry retired from the fur trade, Glass continued his trapping endeavors, unable to forsake the allure of the Northern Rockies. His ventures took him to Santa Fe, a vibrant market town, though his financial gains there were modest compared to Becknell’s success. Discontented with settled trading, Glass sold his remaining goods to prepare for further wilderness explorations.

Quote: "Santa Fe couldn't compete with the call of the wild." [09:30]

5. Expedition into the Gila River and Encounters with Native Tribes (1825)

By [12:13], Glass ventured southwest toward the Gila River in modern-day Southern Arizona, seeking untapped fur resources. Despite discovering a depleted beaver population due to overtrapping, Glass pressed on into uncharted territories. Rumors suggested he reached as far as the convergence of the Gila and Colorado Rivers, enhancing his legendary status.

In early 1825, Glass arrived in Taos, New Mexico, a cultural melting pot where he interacted with fellow trappers and traders, including the future famed Kit Carson. His time in Taos was marked by reconnection with old acquaintances and preparation for further expeditions.

6. The First Mountain Man Rendezvous and Conflicts (July 1825)

In July 1825, William Ashley orchestrated the first mountain man rendezvous at Henry's Fork of the Green River, gathering trappers like Jedediah Smith and the ambitious young Jim Bridger. Glass, preferring solitude, did not attend, focusing instead on exploring new trapping grounds. However, the rendezvous became a hotbed of activity, with Glass's absence noted by his peers.

A significant skirmish occurred when approximately 20 Blackfoot warriors attacked members of the Snake Tribe allied with the trappers. Daniel Potts, a fellow trapper, described the violence, though Jim Beckwourth later exaggerated the events, claiming a prolonged and large-scale battle.

Quote: "The Blackfeet lost 173 men." [18:50]

7. Fort Union and Glass’ Settled Life (1828-1832)

By [25:40], the American Fur Company, founded by John Jacob Astor, established Fort Union at the Yellowstone and Missouri Rivers' junction. Kenneth McKenzie, leading the Upper Missouri outfit, recognized Glass's expertise and recruited him to supply the fort with meat. Glass’s integration into Fort Union marked a transition from solitary trapping to a more structured role within the fur trade industry.

At Fort Union, Glass earned respect and prominence, with landmarks like the Old Glass keel boat and Glass Bluffs named in his honor. His life became a blend of trapping, hunting, and supporting the burgeoning fur trade operations.

8. The Final Expedition and Hugh Glass’ Demise (1833)

In early spring 1833, at approximately 49 or 50 years old, Glass embarked on what would be his final expedition. Accompanied by two seasoned trappers, they aimed to trap beavers near the Bighorn River. Crossing the frozen river brought unforeseen danger as a large group of Arikara warriors ambushed them.

Despite their experience, all three trappers, including Glass, were killed swiftly. Their bodies were left on the ice, and their possessions, including Glass’s treasured rifle—a symbol of his survival and revenge—were stolen by the Arikara.

Quote: "If a full grown grizzly couldn't kill Hugh Glass, one arrow sure as hell wouldn't do the job." [20:10]

Jim Beckwourth later recounted the tragic event, though his accounts are often viewed with skepticism due to his penchant for embellishment. Nevertheless, the fate of Glass and his companions underscored the ever-present dangers of the frontier.

9. Legacy and Memorialization

Hugh Glass’s legacy endures as a symbol of resilience and determination. A monument near the site of his bear attack and the Hugh Glass Lakeside Use Area in Perkins County, South Dakota, commemorate his extraordinary life. Glass's story, marked by survival against all odds and unyielding spirit, continues to inspire and captivate, embodying the very essence of the American frontier mythos.

Quote: "Because Hugh Glass refused to die, his story will live forever." [32:50]

10. Teaser for the Next Episode: Jeremiah Johnson

As the episode concludes, Chris Wimmer hints at the next installment focusing on Jeremiah Johnson, another legendary mountain man shrouded in myth and debate. Johnson, known by nicknames like "Liver Eating Johnson" and "Crow Killer", promises to be a captivating continuation of the series.

Conclusion

Episode 4 of Legends of the Old West offers a comprehensive and engaging portrayal of Hugh Glass's life, from his near-fatal bear attack to his ultimate demise. Through detailed storytelling and insightful analysis, listeners gain a deep understanding of Glass's impact on the American frontier and the enduring legacy he left behind.

Notable Quotes:

• "Hugh Glass refused to die." [02:05]
• "Glass had a change of heart." [05:45]
• "Santa Fe couldn't compete with the call of the wild." [09:30]
• "The Blackfeet lost 173 men." [18:50]
• "If a full grown grizzly couldn't kill Hugh Glass, one arrow sure as hell wouldn't do the job." [20:10]
• "Because Hugh Glass refused to die, his story will live forever." [32:50]

Credits:

• Research & Writing: Matthew Kearns
• Original Music: Rob Valliere
• Host and Producer: Chris Wimmer

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