Richard Puz

It has been a pleasure to write the Six Bulls series of novels. They contain accounts of American pioneers who migrated westward in search of better lives, which resulted in the building of a nation. Their tales have been passed down from generation to generation. Combined with historical events, these provide a vast canvas for the novels and short stories.

As a youngster, my family moved west over the storied asphalt trail named U.S. Highway 66, the twentieth-century version of the dirt trails of earlier years. Completed in 1938, the ribbon of road stretched twenty-four hundred miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, crossing eight states, and three-time zones. Known variously as “the Mother Road,” “Main Street of America,” and “Will Rogers Highway,” it has been celebrated in many different forms. It was the route that breathed life into my boyhood dreams of adventures about pioneer trails, cowboys herding cattle, and Native Americans riding the open plains, created by books, movies, and magazines of the day. Decades later, my wife and I retraced this journey and more, in the current mode of the covered wagon, a motorhome, complete with several hundred horses.

From my research, it has been an honor to weave together an anthology of American westward expansion in the 1800s, from North Carolina, to Ohio and Indiana, southwest to Missouri, across the plains, through the Rocky Mountains, and finally to California, Oregon, and Washington. True enough, you’ll not find the same interpretation in history books; nevertheless, it is my account of the western migration in the United States during the 1800s.

I marvel at the spirit of early pioneers who settled the American frontiers. They had perseverance, overcame many fears and self-doubts, and were, of necessity, self-reliant. They have my greatest admiration, and it is an honor to incorporate some of their experiences and family tales in all the novels, including this one.

From my research, I have a better understanding of the plight of Native Americans, as westward expansion occurred. Despite being fierce and resourceful, ultimately, the oncoming tide of settlers swept them aside. There came a time for understanding and compassion by the conquering invaders. In too many instances, this did not occur, and that stain is part of our American historical legacy.