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Phillip B Gottfredson , Author/Historian Phillip B Gottfredson's book, My Journey to Understand Black Hawk’s Mission of Peace, offers a critical reexamination of the Utah Black Hawk War and settler colonialism from the perspective of the Timpanogos Nation. The narrative directly challenges dominant historical accounts. At its center is the 1870 mission of Timpanogos Chief Black Hawk, who, though mortally wounded, traveled nearly 200 miles on horseback across Utah to advocate for peace, coexistence, and respect for the land. The roots of this story are deeply personal.
Phillip’s great-grandfather, Peter Gottfredson, was a contemporary and friend of Black Hawk during the 1860s. "I had to know what my grandfather's experience was like living among the Timpanogos," Phillip writes. This quest led him to live with a traditional Shoshone family in Oregon in 2002, sparking a life-changing personal transformation. In 2015, he was invited to live among the Shoshone/Timpanogos in Utah, walking in the literal footsteps of his ancestor. My Journey to Understand Black Hawk’s Mission of Peace shares the enduring strength and beauty of the Timpanogos people, who faced unimaginable cruelty yet chose peace. It offers honest insights into colonialism, the tragedies of the Black Hawk War, and invites readers to face historical truths, challenge long-held illusions, and participate in a meaningful path toward healing. See Phillip B Gottfredson Biography
Five Star Reviews!
"Phillip B Gottfredson's detailed account uncovers the resilience and humanity of Timpanogos leader Black Hawk, who sought peace even in the face of devastation. This book offers more than history—it’s a powerful reflection on forgiveness, equality, and the sacred connection between humanity and the Earth. — that’s masterful storytelling." -James Timothy
“Mr. Gottfredson tells this story with passion and honesty. As readers follow his journey of discovery, they will be captivated by his experiences.” Bravo, Sir !" -Barely Ablemann, Washington DC
"This account is critical to understanding history from more than one perspective. This book brings light and knowledge to history that has been absent since the colonization of the United States." -J. Ferguson
"I am not exaggerating when I say that this book has changed my life. I can't recommend it enough". -Stephanie T Lundeen
“My heart heaved, and tears flowed as we encountered the long-forgotten Timpanogos perspective. This book ranks among the finest and most moving works I have ever read. Please read it. Truth matters.” - Larry Ballard, Utah
“I’m grateful I read this book. I’ll be purchasing additional copies to share and recommending it to everyone I know.”- Marcus Hadlock, Utah
“Your experiences blew me away. I love how beautifully you brought your views and experiences together.” - Gary Lee Price
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My journey to understand...
Black Hawk's Mission of Peace!
*Update 5/23/2026:
Just arrived hot off the press!
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*Our unsigned editions: softcover $20.99 & hardcover for $37.95, are available at:
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And fine bookstores everywhere!! from my heart to yours, THANK YOU !
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Copyright: 2019
Buy my great-granpa's book too...
Indian Depredations in Utah
by Peter Gottfredson 1919
Phillip B Gottfredson’s quest for truth began with his great-grandfather Peter Gottfredson’s classic history, Indian Depredations in Utah — a cornerstone work in the annals of Utah history.
First published in 1919, the book offers a rare firsthand account of early settlement in the Great Basin and the violent conflicts that devastated the Timpanogos Nation during the era of Mormon expansion and settler colonialism. Deeply meaningful to Phillip, the work became the foundation for his lifelong journey to better understand Indigenous history, identity, and reconciliation.
Indian Depredations in Utah and My Journey to Understand Black Hawk's Mission of Peace, published one hundred years apart in 1919 and 2019, stand as companion books — two generations connected by a shared search for historical truth and understanding.
Indian Depredations in Utah is currently available from Amazon in a softcover edition for $20.95. Phillip has added a new preface; otherwise, the book remains exactly as originally published.
5-star Reviews! "Peter Gottfredson's Indian Depredations in Utah is a classic firsthand account of the Black Hawk War in Utah. I highly recommend this account to anyone." -Benson Littlefield
"A very interesting book. Even though I live in Utah, and am somewhat of a history buff, this book tells a lot more about the Indians in Utah than I ever knew. It was worth my time to read it." -Ken in Riverton
Don't let the voices of the past go unheard. Purchase your copy now !!
