Caddie Woodlawn

The white settlers are terrified of the word “massacre,” thinking of the thousand lives lost in Minnesota and other smaller uprisings in the Northwest. When people hear rumors of a massacre, they are quick to leave town, arm themselves, and gather together, or else go on the offensive and attack the Native Americans. Despite living peacefully with the Native Americans for years, “the fear spread like a disease, nourished on rumors and race hatred” (119).

The next morning families arrive at the Woodlawn house. While the children play by the barn, thrilled with the added danger of the situation, Mrs. Woodlawn is “in her element” (120), hosting others and feeding them. As the day continues the children gather in the barn, and talk inevitably turns to the Native Americans. As many wonder whether an attack is coming, Mr. Woodlawn reassures his neighbors that they are safe, but people are still on edge.

That night men serve as sentries and the women and children crowd the house to sleep. The shutters are closed to keep in the light, and silence reigns in an effort to avoid attracting attention. Nothing happens during the night, and the group gets restless on the second day. As supplies dwindle, families try to figure out whether to head home, but they are afraid that if they do, the Native Americans will make their move.