Down the Santa Fe Trail and Into Mexico: The Diary of Susan Shelby Magoffin, 1846–1847, edited by Stella M. Drumm, is a compelling firsthand account of a young woman's journey through the American Southwest during a pivotal period in U.S. history. At just eighteen, Susan Shelby Magoffin embarked on a 15-month expedition with her husband, a Santa Fe trader, from Independence, Missouri, to Chihuahua, Mexico. Her journal offers vivid descriptions of the landscapes, cultures, and challenges encountered along the Santa Fe Trail, providing readers with an intimate perspective on frontier life and the onset of the Mexican-American War.​
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Magoffin's writing is noted for its keen observations and personal reflections, capturing both the physical and emotional aspects of the journey. She details encounters with various communities, the intricacies of trade, and the complexities of life on the trail, all while navigating the expectations placed upon her as a newlywed and a woman in a predominantly male-dominated environment. Her narrative not only enriches our understanding of 19th-century American expansion but also highlights the often-overlooked experiences of women during this era.​
 
This edition, published by Bison Books in 1982, includes illustrations and a map, enhancing the reader's connection to Magoffin's experiences. Stella M. Drumm's editorial work ensures that Magoffin's voice remains authentic and accessible, preserving the historical significance of this remarkable journey.