With George Washington in the Wilderness

Christopher Gist is a great American hero who has often gone unnoticed. Recognized for giving colonists the first detailed description of the Ohio Country, Gist was a close friend of George Washington, whom he met through their affiliation with the OhioCompany. In 1753, Gist accompanied the young Colonel Washington on an arduous trek through the western Pennsylvania wilderness in the dead of winter to deliver a message to the French commander on the upper Allegheny River. Gist had a profound impact on Washington and saved the future president's life on at least two occasions during their mission. Despite Gist's impressive achievements, historians have largely overlooked him. This book aims to compensate for Gist's insufficient recognition by showcasinghis remarkable accomplishments to readers. From Gist's early life to his frontier exploration and military service, this biography extensively details the life of a prolific early American explorer--