Horizon: An American Saga - Chapter 1

In 1859, a group of surveyors begins staking out land for a new town in the San Pedro Valley. Unbeknownst to them, two young Apaches are secretly observing their activities, setting the stage for impending conflict.

As tensions rise, a war party stealthily emerges from the rugged hills around the surveyors' camp. This marks the beginning of a volatile situation that foreshadows a violent confrontation.

A wandering missionary named Desmarais seeks out the town of Horizon, believed to be a sanctuary for those yearning for safety and land ownership. His journey reveals the harsh realities faced by those in the area.

After taking advice from an elderly hermit about a town across the river, Desmarais backtracks and discovers the violent aftermath of an Apache attack. He finds the gruesome scene of the surveying crew's brutal murder and decides to bury the dead.

Despite the grim discovery, Desmarais decides to establish a settlement on the land, naming it Horizon. This marks a new chapter in the region's tumultuous history as settlers begin to form a community.

In 1863, an Apache raid, led by Pionsenay, strikes the now-thriving town of Horizon. The attack results in the deaths of several residents, including Frances Kittredge's husband and son, plunging the community into chaos.

Local boy Russell races to alert the United States Army stationed at Camp Gallant about the violent raid. His swift actions are crucial in seeking help for the devastated town and its surviving residents.

Under the command of 1st Lt. Trent Gephardt, the Army arrives to assist. They help with the burial of the deceased and secure the town, providing sanctuary for the survivors, including Frances and her daughter Elizabeth.

Frances and Elizabeth face new challenges adapting to life at Camp Gallant. The differing ideologies between Gephardt and his commanding officer Riordan create tension amidst the backdrop of the ongoing Civil War.

A romantic relationship begins to develop between Frances and Lt. Gephardt. This connection complicates Frances's life as she navigates her grief and the implications of her growing feelings amidst dire circumstances.

In the mountains, tensions rise between Pionsenay and elder Tuayeseh, reflecting deep divisions within the Apache tribe. Tuayeseh advocates for peace, while Pionsenay seeks conflict, leading to a split in their community.

In a separate story arc, Lucy shoots James Sykes to escape with her son, Sam. She adopts the name Ellen and marries businessman Walter Childs, setting off a chain of dramatic events fueled by betrayal.

A wagon train led by Matthew Van Weyden sets out on the Santa Fe Trail, hoping to find Horizon. Tensions within the group arise due to the naivety and ignorance of certain travelers.

Russell, Janney, and a shop owner thwart a threat posed by Scalp Hunters. This heroic moment showcases their commitment to protecting Indigenous individuals amidst escalating tensions.

Meanwhile, in the East, businessman H. Silas Pickering disseminates pamphlets promising new opportunities in Horizon. His actions reflect the relentless cycle of ambition and tragedy woven throughout the settlers' struggles.