Carson, Christopher

Christopher (1808-1868), known usually as "Kit" Carson, a celebrated American trapper, guide, and soldier. He was born in Madison County, Kentucky, December 24, 1808. He died at Fort Lynn, Colorado, May 23, 1868. When a lad he was set to learn the saddler's trade, but forsook it for a hunting expedition. He served Fremont as a guide. In 1847 he was sent to Washington with dispatches, and received an appointment as an American scout. In 1853 he drove a flock of 6,500 sheep overland to California. He served for a time as an Indian agent in New Mexico. During the Civil War he served in the army and was made a brigadier-general. Carson City, Nevada, was named for him. See Fremont