Captivity of the Oatman Girls
Being an Interesting Narrative of Life Among the Apache and Mohave Indians
"Captivity of the Oatman Girls" by R. B. Stratton is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The narrative tells the harrowing story of the Oatman family, focusing on the captivity of two sisters, Olive and Mary Ann, after their family was brutally attacked by Apache Indians during their journey to California. This account aims to document the family's tragedy and the sisters' subsequent suffering. At the start of the book, the Oatman family is introduced as they embark on their journey from Missouri to California, facing various hardships along the way. The narrative details their initial encampment and interactions with both friendly and hostile groups before the devastating attack occurs. A massacre leads to the capture of Olive and Mary Ann, with only their brother Lorenzo surviving, setting the stage for the dramatic experiences that will follow during the sisters' captivity among the Apache and Mohave tribes. This opening portion establishes the tone of the book as one steeped in tragedy, resilience, and the pursuit of survival against overwhelming odds.