Point of View

This novel is a culmination of journal entries written by May Dodd. She often writes in present tense, observing what is going on around her, and also writes in past tense as she recounts the events that take place during her year as an Indian bride. The Codicil written by Abbott Anthony looks back on his relationship and experiences with the white brides and Little Wolf's band.

The white women's characters in the novel come from different backgrounds. Gretchen speaks in a heavy Swiss accent, the Kelly twins speak in a strong Irish brogue, Daisy speaks with a distinct southern drawl, and Gertie speaks like an American cowboy. Fergus is adept at having May spell the women's words the way they would sound with these accents.

Setting

One Thousand White Women begins with Chief Little Wolf's acceptance of President Grant's peace medal in Washington, D.C...