To describe the work in Idaho of Kate Christine McBeth, the "White Mother" of the Nez Perces, from the Indian’s viewpoint is my purpose. Knowing of my long and intimate friendship with her, the Indians have in the past twenty-five years, frequently entertained me in their homes, and I am glad to call them my friends.

Miss McBeth’s work show best in the lives of the preachers whom she has trained. Life stories of a few of outstanding influence are recorded, as the Indians themselves, told them to me. Mark Arthur’s experience in the Chief Joseph War was so unique and absolutely true to history, that in the Appendix are included quotations from sources of unquestioned reliability of our government’s participation in it – thus giving for the first time an authentic account of both sides of that most unfortunate and unnecessary Indian War.

To catch the spirit and the color of the surroundings in which this remarkable woman, in work of transcending importance passed thirty-six years in practically continuous service, has been my desire.  This Memoir in no way encroaches upon the material in her rare book, "The Nez Perces since Lewis and Clark," but recounts events occurring since the first edition was issued, and includes personal experiences. Read in connection with that volume, a clear-cut picture will be drawn of a life devoted to the tribe of Indians, whom a government official has called, "The Most Devout Christians in the World."

My warm thanks are expressed to Miss Helen Clark, missionary among neighboring Indians, to Miss Mazie Crawford, beloved niece and for sixteen years the assistant of Miss Kate McBeth and now her successor, the Rev. James Hayes, the Rev. Mark Arthur, Mr. John Frank, Mrs. Rachael Pond and other Indian friends, whose cordial cooperation and hearty support made the preparation of this a joy.

Signed

Julia Fraser

Oakland, California