Dr. Jefferies is a direct descendant of twelve ancestors who traveled the Mormon trail from 1847 through 1862. A self-described “rut-nut,” he has spent years tracing the “westering” emigration trails and studying contemporary accounts of those who traveled over them. Foremost is the emigration journal kept by his great-great grandfather.
The author is an accomplished writer who has published in professional journals over the past thirty years. His meticulous research and engaging writing style are clearly evident in his novel. A retired Air Force colonel, he is a career administrator and educator. He holds an undergraduate degree from Brigham Young University, a master’s degree from the University of Pittsburgh, and a doctorate from the University of Oklahoma.