Set in America's Colonial period, John Ford's adventure story follows Gilbert (Henry Fonda) and Lana Martin (Claudette Colbert) since they attempt to survive the rugged frontier. After their settlement is attacked by Indians, the bunch will be drawn in by way of a spinster (Edna May Oliver). Although Gilbert heads off to combat the British and with Indians, a son is born by lana. He yields, hurt, to uncover his family more under attack by the Indians.