The Deerfield Massacre

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From the New York Times bestselling author of Manhunt comes a captivating account of a forgotten chapter in American history—the deadly confrontation between natives and colonists in Massachusetts in 1704. Once infamous, the Deerfield Massacre has faded from collective memory. In a small town in western Massachusetts, a two-hundred-year-old museum houses a significant relic: the tomahawk-scarred door known as “The Old Indian Door.” This formidable barrier, made from double-thick Massachusetts oak and iron nails, symbolizes the violent events of that fateful night when, on February 29, 1704, hundreds of Native Americans and their French allies attacked an isolated frontier outpost, slaughtering or capturing its inhabitants. The sacking of Deerfield led to a harrowing saga of survival, sacrifice, and faith. One hundred and twelve captives, including Reverend John Williams, were forced to march three hundred miles into Canada, facing brutal conditions. Those who faltered met grim fates, including Williams’s wife. Despite the hardships, survivors endured captivity and were eventually ransomed, returning to rebuild their town and share their incredible tale. Williams's memoir, The Redeemed Captive, became one of the first bestsellers in American history. The Old Indian Door serves as a touchstone for this dramatic and inspiring story, vividly brought to life by historian James Swanson.