Last of the great scouts: The life story of William F. Cody ["Buffalo Bill" Cody] is a historical biography recounting the life and adventures of William F. Cody through the perspective of his sister. The narrative begins with an intimate portrayal of the Cody family and their homestead in Iowa, providing insight into the environment that shaped his early character. The book explores the joys and hardships of pioneer life, including family tragedies and the hopes and expectations placed upon William as he grows. Through detailed descriptions of childhood experiences, family dynamics, and the challenges of westward migration during the Gold Rush, the account illustrates the formation of Cody's adventurous spirit and resilience. The opening sections highlight both personal and historical contexts, reflecting the interplay of family influence, environmental circumstances, and emerging ambition in shaping a legendary frontiersman. The biography balances factual recounting with personal reminiscence, offering readers a vivid depiction of life on the frontier, the trials of early settlement, and the character traits that would later define Buffalo Bill as a showman, scout, and symbol of American pioneering courage.
Helen Cody Wetmore was a writer, advocate, and business professional born on 27 June 1850 in Le Claire, Iowa, to Isaac Cody and Mary Ann Bonsell Laycock. She was the sister of William F. Cody, famously known as Buffalo Bill, and gained unique insights into frontier life through her family connections and personal experiences. For a brief period, Wetmore traveled with the Wild West show, witnessing firsthand the performances and adventures that shaped her brother's legendary reputation. Beyond her literary and familial connections, she worked as the business manager for the Duluth Press, demonstrating her organizational and professional abilities in a male-dominated field. Wetmore was also an advocate for women's suffrage, reflecting her engagement with social reform and the promotion of women's rights. Her writings include historical and biographical accounts, notably chronicling her brother's life in a manner that combined personal recollection with historical documentation. Wetmore passed away in 1911 in Pasadena, California, leaving behind a legacy of literary work, social advocacy, and contributions to preserving the story of the American frontier and its iconic figures.