First of all, I broke these segments into modern state lines based on the highway maps I have charted. I'm still old-fashioned in that way even if no one uses state highway maps anymore.
In 1856, the territorial boundaries were at the continental divide. Nebraska was on the eastern slope and Oregon on the western, at least down to the 42nd Parallel North, the present-day northern boundary of California, Nevada, and Utah. And in 1856, Utah Territory went east to the continental divide to include what is now southwestern Wyoming. Still, there's some satisfaction in beginning Wyoming at Fort Laramie and on west to Yellow Creek at the Needles before Cache Cave and Echo Canyon in Utah. Ft. Laramie works, because it was there. And Yellow Creek because, well, that's another family story.
In 1856, the territorial boundaries were at the continental divide. Nebraska was on the eastern slope and Oregon on the western, at least down to the 42nd Parallel North, the present-day northern boundary of California, Nevada, and Utah. And in 1856, Utah Territory went east to the continental divide to include what is now southwestern Wyoming. Still, there's some satisfaction in beginning Wyoming at Fort Laramie and on west to Yellow Creek at the Needles before Cache Cave and Echo Canyon in Utah. Ft. Laramie works, because it was there. And Yellow Creek because, well, that's another family story.
The numbered days continue from Nebraska and began at Iowa City from the departure on 9 June 1856. The first date is the 24th of August 1856. [Galloway was off by a day].
DAY 76
23rd Sun 24
The camp did not travell any to day[.] We were busey with the hand carts[.] At 6 P.M. We had a sacramental & saints meeting[.] a good time of it (Galloway OTD).
The camp did not travell any to day[.] We were busey with the hand carts[.] At 6 P.M. We had a sacramental & saints meeting[.] a good time of it (Galloway OTD).
24 Sunday in camp all Day[.] an Indian visited us, we had a good meetting Partook of the Scarment some of the Brethen testified[.] Brothers France[,] Oakeley [John Oakley] & [William] Butler spoke[.] felt well and to thank my God for my Deliverance (Ham OTD).
Sun 24th The 1st Indian we have seen since leaving Florence came to our camp. Broke up an old waggon[.] Meeting in the eve[nin]g[.] Sacrament administered (Oakley OTD).
Sunday 24th Rested from travels but had to repair hand carts. Meeting at night. Received the Sacrament. Spoke at the meeting. Bro. Ellsworth spoke some time and said we had made great improvement; that the last week there had been less quarreling and those that had robbed the hand carts, or wagons, unless they repent their flesh would rot from their bones and go to Hell. (Walters OTD).
DAY 77
24th Mon 25
At half past 7 A.M. the camp rolled out & travelled 19 miles[.][1] for 6 or 7 miles the road was rather sandy. at ¼ to 5 P.M. we camped not far from the Platte[.] good feed[.] plenty of wood. (Galloway OTD).
At half past 7 A.M. the camp rolled out & travelled 19 miles[.][1] for 6 or 7 miles the road was rather sandy. at ¼ to 5 P.M. we camped not far from the Platte[.] good feed[.] plenty of wood. (Galloway OTD).
25 travelled 20 miles very sandy road met some men from the fort Passed an Indian camp[.] several of them Both men women & children came to look at us[.] they were very civil & quiet[.] had a good camping Place for wood[.] bid farewell to the Buffalo chips (Ham OTD).
M. 25th Came 20 mi. Camped on the Platt[e] by a grove of cottonwood (Oakley OTD).
Monday 25th Travelled about 19 miles. Saw many Indians. Camped about 19 miles from Fort Laramie. Hand Cart axle tree broke on the road. Plenty of wood. Quite a treat after burning so many Buffalo chips. (Walters OTD).
DAY 78
25th 26 Tues
The camp rolled out 20 past 7 A.M. & travelled 17 miles. for about 14 miles the road was very sandy heavey drawing[.] Forded the Platte opposite to Lar[a]mie. Camped at 35 past 5 P.M. on the side of the Platte 4 miles from Larmie[.] good feed[.] Plenty of Wood. (Gall[2]oway OTD).
The camp rolled out 20 past 7 A.M. & travelled 17 miles. for about 14 miles the road was very sandy heavey drawing[.] Forded the Platte opposite to Lar[a]mie. Camped at 35 past 5 P.M. on the side of the Platte 4 miles from Larmie[.] good feed[.] Plenty of Wood. (Gall[2]oway OTD).
26 started at 10 min 7 travelled 16 miles through a very heavy sand[.] came to the Fort about 1 o clock[.] crossed the river camped about three miles from the Fort[.] a Beautiful camp ground[.] an Extra can of flour gave us, we Passed a good many Indians [illegible] Brother Frances waggon Passed over sister [Eliza] Watts[3] (Ham OTD).
T. 26th Came 16 mi. to the ford at Ft Laramie[.] crosed over & came 2½ mi. Some U.S. officers from the Ft came to see us. (Oakley OTD).
Tuesday 26th Travelled about 19 miles. Camped 3 miles from Fort Laramie. Trucked away a dagger for a piece of bacon an salt and sold one for 1 dollars ¼. Bought bacon and meal and Henry and me began to eat it raw we was so hungry. Forded the river. Sister Watts got hurt by the wagon. My wife thinks she would of fell when half way over the river. Bro. John Lee came to her assistance. (Walters OTD).
I staid at Laramie to buy a yoke of Cattle which caused a weeks detention[.] After travelling from there a few days alone we fell in with the 3 rd Hand Cart company & rolled on with them & finally arrived in the valley of the Great Salt Lake on Sunday 5 th / 56 all well (Armstrong OTD).
Captain El[l]sworth sent some men with a wagon to the Woods to cut a Tre[e] to raise our Wagons beds up, to keep the water from our Flour, the Laramie river being very high. After the wagons Boxes was raised and we was again ready to mouved. The Captain came to me and said he wanted me to take the lead, as I had more controle over my Cattle then his Teamsters had. and he leading out on horseback down to the river which <was> exceedingly wide. After comming out and turning my cattle out to Feed. I went to the river and found the last one going in the water on the other side. I then went to the wagons and took the Tents out and put them up with the other Teamsters (Attley OTD).
DAY 79
26th 27Wed
The camp rolled out ¼ past 7 A.M. and travelled 21 miles. the roads good with the exception of about 4 miles rather rough and rocky. at ¼ to 5 P.M. we camped at Bitter Cottonwood[.][4] Wood & Water plenty[.] feed scarce. (Galloway OTD).
The camp rolled out ¼ past 7 A.M. and travelled 21 miles. the roads good with the exception of about 4 miles rather rough and rocky. at ¼ to 5 P.M. we camped at Bitter Cottonwood[.][4] Wood & Water plenty[.] feed scarce. (Galloway OTD).
27 travelled 20 miles over Hills & through vallies met some People returning from the valley[.] Camped near a camp from Callifornia[,] some of the Brethen traded with them[.] they had Indian women for wives (Ham OTD).
W. 27th Came 20 mi. & camped on a creek with some mountaineers camped. (Oakley OTD).
Wednesday 27th Travelled about 18 miles. Had bacon and meal porridge for supper; the best supper for many weeks. A camp of Indians passed us. (Walters OTD).
DAY 80
28th Thurs
The camp rolled out this morning at 30 past 8 A.M. and travelled 15 miles[.] 8 miles from Bitter cotton Wood creek to the Platte[.] 3 from that to a good spring and pretty good feed in the right side of the road[.] 4 from that To Horse Shoe Creek.[5] good feed[.] plenty of Wood & Water. camped about 30 past 4 P.M. (Galloway OTD).
The camp rolled out this morning at 30 past 8 A.M. and travelled 15 miles[.] 8 miles from Bitter cotton Wood creek to the Platte[.] 3 from that to a good spring and pretty good feed in the right side of the road[.] 4 from that To Horse Shoe Creek.[5] good feed[.] plenty of Wood & Water. camped about 30 past 4 P.M. (Galloway OTD).
28 travelled 15 miles had a Beautiful camp ground Hops & mint grew there in abundance[.] gathered some to take with us, did our washing (Ham OTD).
T. 28th Came 15 mi. & camped on Horse Shoe Creek[.] scant feed (Oakley OTD).
Thursday 28th Travelled about 15 miles. Mended hand carts good and had road hilley. Camped at a nice place called Horse Shoe Creek. Mother and Sarah washed clothes. (Walters OTD).
DAY 81
29 Fri
The camp rolled out at 15 past 7 A.M. and travelled 25 miles[.] the road was pretty good. 16 miles to the Platte when we took dinner. Travelled 2 miles and forded[6] the Platte. camped about 30 past 6 P.M. on the Platte[.] plenty of Wood[.] feed pretty fair. (Galloway OTD).
The camp rolled out at 15 past 7 A.M. and travelled 25 miles[.] the road was pretty good. 16 miles to the Platte when we took dinner. Travelled 2 miles and forded[6] the Platte. camped about 30 past 6 P.M. on the Platte[.] plenty of Wood[.] feed pretty fair. (Galloway OTD).
29 started at ½7 travelled 25 miles[.] 9 or 10 miles very good road came into camp very Hungary & tired[.] crossed the river (Ham OTD).
F. 29 Came 22 mi. & camped on the Platt[e.] crosed it & traveled some 5 mi. where we stoped on a dry creek near the River to noon[.] as I was collecting the cattle I discovered two large veins of what I judged to be good Stone coals[,] particles of Iron ore also in the vacinity in abundance—came on 3 mi farther & camped. Heavy rain at night (Oakley OTD).
Friday 29th Travelled 25 miles. Camped Platte River. Met some Californians. (Walters OTD).
DAY 82
30th Set [Aug.]
The camp rolled out at 25 past 7 A.M. and travelled 19 miles[.] the road pretty fair[.] forded the Platte again[.][7] Travelled about 6 miles and camped by the side of a creek[.][8] plenty of Wood. Water & feed[.] We passed two emigrants from California[.] by them we were informed that 5 Wagons were waiting on us at Deer Creek[.] camped about 30 past 6 P.M. (Ham OTD).
The camp rolled out at 25 past 7 A.M. and travelled 19 miles[.] the road pretty fair[.] forded the Platte again[.][7] Travelled about 6 miles and camped by the side of a creek[.][8] plenty of Wood. Water & feed[.] We passed two emigrants from California[.] by them we were informed that 5 Wagons were waiting on us at Deer Creek[.] camped about 30 past 6 P.M. (Ham OTD).
30 travelled 21 miles met some Califfornias who informed us that there were 5 waggons waiting for us at Deer Creek, crossed the river (Ham OTD).
S. 30th Crosed the river back again[.] met some of the N.S. men or traders who told us that some of our people from the Valley were camped on Deer Creek with Flour for us. Camped on a creek 4 mi from the river (Oakley OTD).
Saturday 30th Travelled 22 miles. Met some Californians and they told us the wagons was waiting at Deer Creek for us. (Walters OTD).
DAY 83
31st
The <camped> rolled out at ¼ to 7 A.M. and travelled 24 miles. the roads were very good. [- -] took about ¼ of a mile from a good creek[.] camped at Deer Creek[9] about 30 past 5 P.M. Found the Wagons waiting on us[.] A most excellent camping ground[.] plenty of Wood, Water & feed for the cattle. Robert Stodart[10] Died of consumption age 51. Burried about 400 yds from the Left hand side of road (Galloway OTD).
The <camped> rolled out at ¼ to 7 A.M. and travelled 24 miles. the roads were very good. [- -] took about ¼ of a mile from a good creek[.] camped at Deer Creek[9] about 30 past 5 P.M. Found the Wagons waiting on us[.] A most excellent camping ground[.] plenty of Wood, Water & feed for the cattle. Robert Stodart[10] Died of consumption age 51. Burried about 400 yds from the Left hand side of road (Galloway OTD).
31 started at ½7 travelled 24 miles met with the Brethen from the valley who had come to meet us with flour & salt[.] flour 18 Dollars <100> lbs[.] Paid the last 5 cents we had for a can of salt, felt very tired & weary[.] Dissapointed in not having and Potatoes felt very low spirited but do thou O Lord refresh me & comfort me[.] Brother stoddard [Robert Stoddart] Died in the waggon[,] had been sick a few days (Ham OTD).
Sun 31st Came 18 mi & found the before mentioned brethren my Brother in law W. P. McIntire among them. Bro. Robt Stodard died an hour before coming to camp on Deer Creek. Age 51 y. 3 mo. 19 da. I superintended his burial as I have done near all since on the journey (Oakley OTD).
Sunday 31st Very poorly, faint and hungry. Travelled to Deer Creek, 22 miles. Brother R[obert]. Stoddard from Carlisle Conference about 54 years old, died in the wagon on road. More provisions given out. (Walters OTD).
I was captivated by the place called “Deer Creek’s” beauty. It was so charmingly sylvan with little groves here and there and a bright clear creek lined with timber. Said I to Father, “Let’s build a little log house and stay in this place always.” “What would we do for food?[”] asked Father.
“Do as we’re doing now,” said I, “Go without.[”]
A little farther on I wanted to go down into a certain green cove. The captain forbade and called me back. Just then three bears came out and ascended the flat. (Sabin OTD).
At the Plat[te] river 12 miles from Laramie River we being heavily loaded had to bye [buy] a nother Yoke of Oxen before assending the Black Hills. Armstrong bought a Yoke at Deer Creek, and coming on a lone to catch up with the company who was ahead of us. we met 2 men and a Woman and child, one of the men Armstrong was ajuainted [acquainted] with and they wanted us to Camp with them which we did to our sorrow and the next Morning they let Loose the Cattle and they run back to deer Creek the 4 Yoke, with the Yokes on them. The men then got into the wagon and drove off. Armstrong following after them to get the Cattle He was gonne all day and came back at Night without them.
We was camped here 8 days before we got them, about the 6[th] day 12 Indians armed with guns and Bow and arrows came galaping down the Hills towards us, and my Wife said to me Oh look at them Indians what shall I do. I answered do as I tell you, for I saw them first and offered up a silent Prayer to God to give his Spirit to me, that I may know how to act with them[.] they came up full speed towards me as I was standing by the camp fire, the Chief on the lead and gave me a paper from a Government Post. Recomending the said Cheif and Indians as good and frindly to the Government and to feed them, as they ware on way to there [their] Hunting grounds. I told my Wife to provide food for them which was done. They ware armed and Powerfull men
The cattle being found we again started on and Traveled for 2 Weeks all alone. And we kept along the Plat[te] river and finding good feed and coming on a heavy rain we camped for 2 days. here The second Night I had a Dream[.] I dreamed I started on the rode and drove about a mile and a half and looking Back I saw a company of Saints with Hand Carts which filled me with joy for we were very lonely[.] I awoke and got up and made a fire and calli<n>g my Wife up to make Breakfast and w[h]ile eating breakfast I told them it was the last day we would be alone. I then yoked the cattle up and role [roll] on it being a Lovely Morning, arriving at the Place I had previcely seen the Night before in my dream[.] I knew it again and turning round as I did in the dream I saw the company[.] it was Bunker Company and We came in the Valley with them[.] He told us that the 2 men and Woman was killed by the Indian[s].
at deer creek, he bought a youke of Cattle, and being detained thereby, Edmond El[l]sworth and company went on and left us, to come on. we traveled 12 miles towards the Plat[te] River, here we came to a Hill and a carri[a]ge coming down, and it was Thomas Margetts[11] and a man and his wife Named Cowley[.] Thomas C. Armstrong was well acquainted with him in Quin[n] Street London Book Office. Margetts asked him ware he was going and he said to El[l]sworth Company[.] why I met him at 1 Oclock this Morning[.] their [they’re] a long way off from here, you had better camp here for the Night. I told Armstrong that if he went on top of the hill he would see the camp, as it was not more thin [than] ½ a mile and as we had a New yoke of cattle they would stay with the herd better, and not go back to deer creek were you bough[t] them[.] It being about 7 Oclock at Night and Cowl[e]y was turning out his horses to camp for the Night and his wife was making a fire to cook supper Armstrong said he is a Intimate friend of mine and I want to stay with him to Night and I beli[e]ve he passed the company as he said. I told him that he had left the church and was cut off the Church in Salt Lake and Cowley too, And wanted our company as he was afraid of <the> Indians and that he had lied to him to have his company [.] well it was his team and I complyed and tur[ne]d my Team towards his wagon and took the 4 yoke and cha[i]ned them to the Trees by the Plat[te] river for the Night. In the morning I got up about ½ past 4 and made a fire to have a Erly start[.] Marget[t]s was up a littler [little] w[h]ile after and came to me and said why dont you loose the cattle and let them feed[.] why I said their is no feed for them here nothing but the bare ground. O he said they will find something and I did not comply to let them loose, and Told him E[l]lsworth camp was only a little way above the Hill, Armstrong coming up, he said why them. Marget[t]s said to Armstrong you turn them loose foure [your]self. I don’t understand them. Marget[t]s said shall I Loose them[?] Armstrong said yes. I then stept up to armstrong and said if you let him loose them they will run back to deer Creek and take the others with them and you will have to go after them for I will not. El[l]sworths Camp is only a little way over the Hill, and after breakfast we will start for the camp and thay can feed with his herd at Noon. Marget[t]s went up to the cattle saying if they go to deer creek I will ich [hitch] up my teem and bring them back. As soon as he dropt the Chain of the Yoke he Bought they started to run with thier tailes stretch out and the others went after them with ther heads down tairing [tearing] up the grownd with their horns. I then went up a high hill that overlook[ed] the way they went and see them still going full speed. W[h]ile on the top of Hill I saw Marget[t]s go to his wagon and get [h]is Rifle out and aimed at me. my Wife said what are you going to do, shoot him. he said no I going to skair [scare] him[.] I stood still on top of the Hill and being Impraced [impressed] waited till he fired the Rifle off. I came doon [down] and asked him what he fired at me for. he said he doneit to skair you. I knew better. He icked [hitched] up his teame and went off never askin[g] Armstrong to ride with him. Armstrong had told him all I said to him I beleive[.] I told him their goes your Intimate friend[.] he has not ask you to ride with him or go after the cattle as he promise[d] you, he has had our company for the Night and that was all he wantted. It was 8 days before he found them, going every morning & coming back at Night. The five day a band of Indians 7 in number came down the Hill armed with guns and aroes [arrows] with their quivers full and galloped up to me and gave me papers from the U.S. Government saying they were frindly and feed them. My Wife seeing them coming said look at the Indians. what shal I do. I answerd do as I tel you. I lifted up a Prayer to God, asking him to teach me how to deal with them as I did not know thiere language. I then with my hands made a Sign for them to Circicle [circle] all, being led that way. and going to the wagon and teling my Wife to make some food ready for them. armstrong[’s] Mother said we can not do ti [it]. we canot feed all them men. I told her to hold her tongue and to give my Wife all she ask for, as the Indians could take all we had and gave instructions to my <Wife> how to act, to lay the clooth [cloth] on the grownd and place the food on it. I then went to the Indians and set with them in a ci[r]cle they leaving a Place for me to set[.] the Cheif fil[l]ing a pipe of Erb [Herb] tobacco and lit it smoked it, and gave it to me, and I gave it to the next one and he to the others til it came to the Chief and he put <it> away then the food being ready we all came and ate toger [together.] After smoking the pipe of Pease [Peace] and had dinner thay all got up, sadled their horses and pooting [putting] the Cheif on his horse shookhands with me saying you have a windwind Squau [Squaw]. and left. I told Demec Huntingen [Dimmick Huntington[12]] some years after how I acted with them Indians, and he said who lerned you the Indians Language. After we got the cattle we traveled 2 Weeks alone, and one Night I dreamed I went about a mite [mile] and turning round I saw [Edward] Bunkers Company coming[.] the Next morning I told my Wife we would <have> company to day and when I came to the place the next day turning [a]round I saw them coming as seen in the dream
Captain Bunker told me Thomas Marget[t]s was Shot and the man with him[.] the Woman was striped Naked and tied to a Tre[e] Alive. Some Emigrants coming by, released her and she went East with them.
We then had Breakfast and saw a Carrage coming down the Hill towards our Tent, and the man asked if this was Armstrong Wagon[.] I said yes. He said Mr. El[l]sworth sent him to say He would wait for us til Noon and then go on. I asked him how far is his Camp from here. He said just over the Hill you will see it. armstrong herd all he said but our Cattle was gonne and we could not mouve. Armstron[g] and his son Started off for Deer Creek for the Cattle. (Attley OTD]
DAY 84
Sept 1st
We remained at Deer Creek to day to rest ourselves & the cattle. Bussey[13] repairing the hand carts. Killed a cow[.] had a good meeting at night addressed by Bro Ellsworth & the brethren from the valley. We spent a first rate day of it. (Galloway OTD).
We remained at Deer Creek to day to rest ourselves & the cattle. Bussey[13] repairing the hand carts. Killed a cow[.] had a good meeting at night addressed by Bro Ellsworth & the brethren from the valley. We spent a first rate day of it. (Galloway OTD).
Sep 1 lay in camp all Day[.] washed[,] worked at our needle[,] washed our heads[,] spoke to Brother Ellisworth concerning the flour[.] an meeting in the moring and again in the Evening[.] two of the Brethen that came to meet us spoke (Ham OTD).
M. Sept 1st Remained in camp to arrange for the Flour brought us & to recruit teams[.] excelent feed[.] Meeting in the Eveg [Evening] (Oakley OTD).
Monday 1st Rested from travels. I mended carts. Meeting about flour and paying for extra that was brought in the wagons. Harriet getting quite well and walks all the way. 18 cents per lb. (Walters OTD).
DAY 85
2
The camp rolled out at a quarter to 7 A.M. & travelled 20 miles. the road tolerable good but very dusty owing to a heavey wind. campe[d] beside the Platte. plenty of Wood. feed scarce[.] crossed a creek 11 miles from where we started. Walter Sanders[14] [died] Last night. Burried this morning about 300 yds from the south side of the road, age 65. (Galloway OTD).
The camp rolled out at a quarter to 7 A.M. & travelled 20 miles. the road tolerable good but very dusty owing to a heavey wind. campe[d] beside the Platte. plenty of Wood. feed scarce[.] crossed a creek 11 miles from where we started. Walter Sanders[14] [died] Last night. Burried this morning about 300 yds from the south side of the road, age 65. (Galloway OTD).
2 Hannah & me went to Brother Neelly[15] who gave us a recommendation[.] <Hannah> to go to his House & me to sister Burr 1st ward south Entrance[.] started at ¼ to seven[.] Brother Snider[16] came out a few miles with us[.] Drew the Handcart with me[,] made proposals of marriage to me but I did not feel free[.] High winds & much dust[.] travelled 20 miles. Brother Hinckley[17] returned with us[.] received table rations (Ham OTD).
T. 2nd Came 20 mi & camped on the Platt[e] 4 mi. before coming to a U.S. Military Post.[18] Scarcely any feed[.] Came 6 mi. & nooned where we crosed the Platt[e.][19] a fire got out & came near burning the Hand carts[.] then came on 5 mi & camped on the Platt[e.][20] This morning an old man by the name of [Walter] Sanders died & was burried at our campground of last night (Oakley OTD).
Tuesday 2nd Platte River. Travelled 19 miles. Walter [Sanders]on, aged 56, died. (Walters OTD).
DAY 86
3d
The camp rolled this morning at 30 Past 8 A.M. & travelled 11 miles. it was very heavey pulling owing to the dust and a heavey wind. crossed the Platte 1½ below the upper crossings[.] a good place to ford. camped by the side of the Platte at 30 past 4 P.M. plenty wood. feed middling. (Galloway OTD).
The camp rolled this morning at 30 Past 8 A.M. & travelled 11 miles. it was very heavey pulling owing to the dust and a heavey wind. crossed the Platte 1½ below the upper crossings[.] a good place to ford. camped by the side of the Platte at 30 past 4 P.M. plenty wood. feed middling. (Galloway OTD).
3 High winds & sandy roads[,] only made 9 miles[.] we sisters went round by the store and over the Bridge[21] to avoid crossing the Platte[.] the Brethen took the carts [illegible] we met several familys returning to the states from the valley[.] the[y] gave a Poor account of affairs there[.] B Brother [Walter] Sanders died yest[erday] (Ham OTD).
Wednesday 3rd Met 4 wagons: Henshaw[22] from Nottingham; John Barns[23] from Sheffiend [Sheffield]—Travelled 15 miles. (Walters OTD).
DAY 87
4th
The camp rolled out this morning and travelled 26 miles. the roads[24] were very good for travelling. had dinner by the side of Mineral <spring> creek[.][25] camped at Little Stream creek[26] at 30 past 5 P.M. about half an hour after getting at camp it got very cold & rained for several hours so that we could not Light a fire. (Galloway OTD).
The camp rolled out this morning and travelled 26 miles. the roads[24] were very good for travelling. had dinner by the side of Mineral <spring> creek[.][25] camped at Little Stream creek[26] at 30 past 5 P.M. about half an hour after getting at camp it got very cold & rained for several hours so that we could not Light a fire. (Galloway OTD).
4 started 20 min to seven travelled 26 miles[.] Camped where there was no wood and but few Buffalo Chips[.] it began to rain just as the tent was raised and then snow and continued all night[.] had a great Diffculty to get our Porridge for Breakfast (Ham OTD).
T. 4th Came 26 mi. & camped on a small creek (Willow Creek) pased the Poison waters[27] (Oakley OTD).
Thursday 4th Travelled 10 miles. (Walters OTD).
DAY 88
5th
We remained in camp today owing to the inclement state of the weather[.] it rained & snowed alternatley for the whole of the day that we could not cook hardly anything. (Galloway OTD).
We remained in camp today owing to the inclement state of the weather[.] it rained & snowed alternatley for the whole of the day that we could not cook hardly anything. (Galloway OTD).
5 in camp all day[.] the storm continued and it was with great Difficulty we could cook anything[.] the weather Extremly cold[,] the mountains covered with snow (Ham OTD).
Fri. 5th excedingly disagreeable cold rain & snow storm[.] had snowed some 2 inches during the night (Oakley OTD).
Friday 5th Rested. Rained all day. (Walters OTD).
DAY 89
6th
About 4 A.M. this morning the weather became more settled but we found to our sorrow that 24 head of our cattle were missing owing to the negligence of Robert Sheen[28] & James Sheenn Jun. who were on guard. we had to remain in camp again to day as the cattle were not found till about 3 P.M. (Galloway OTD).
About 4 A.M. this morning the weather became more settled but we found to our sorrow that 24 head of our cattle were missing owing to the negligence of Robert Sheen[28] & James Sheenn Jun. who were on guard. we had to remain in camp again to day as the cattle were not found till about 3 P.M. (Galloway OTD).
6 in camp all Day through the cattle Being lost[.] the weather very cold[.] Brother France & Mother very sick & Brother Birch & Brother [William] Pratt (Ham OTD).
Sat. 6th Found that the guard had lost some 24 head of cattle[.] spent the day hunting[.] sent out 20 men in as many directions[.] I <& Prest El[l]sworth> went also[.] found them[.] they had gone (as is almost alwas the case) to the leaward of the storm. Many of the Saints were bloated in consequence of the severe weather of yesterday (Oakley OTD).
Saturday 6th Lost cattle. (Walters OTD).
DAY 90
 |
| The Sweetwater River northeast of Independence Rock, Wyoming. |
7th
The camp rolled out this morning at 30 past 7 A.M. & travelled 22 miles. The road was good for the first 14 miles[.] camped to have dinner beside a most beautifull creek[29] of Water. for the next 8 miles the road is very sandy & heavey. camp at 30 past 6 P.M. by the side of Sweet Water 2 miles[30] from the crossings[.][31] a good camping ground[.] good feed for cattle. 30 past 6 P.M. George Neappris[32] died this evening age 24. emigrated from Cardiff in Dan Jones' company. (Galloway OTD).
George Napras was my mate at this time in pulling a cart, and before we got to the Sweetwater river he took sick and died. He was buried at our first camp ground on the bank of the Sweetwater river. (Phillips, Jonah, Bio at Welsh Mormon History, http://welshmormon.byu.edu/Default.aspx (WMH)).
7 <Sunday> travelled 22 miles[,] ten miles in heavy sandy road[.] Brother Birch sick[,] Hannah & me drew the cart[.] Brother [George] Liddard [Neppress] died[.] he drew his cart the Early part of the day but when we camped he was missing[.] Brother [John] Oakley went on a mule & found him[.] he lived a few hours after[.] we camped on a Beautiful camp ground at the side of the sweet water river (Ham OTD).
Sun. 7th Came 22 mi[.] Camped on the Sweet Water 3 mi. from Independance [Independence] Rock[.] A Bro. Geo. Liddiard [Neppress] was taken verry ill & remained back some 5 mi. I took the horse & went after him[.] found him dying. I hasted back to camp[.] it was then dark—& came back in com. with Bro. Ira Hinkley & Thos Fowler with a waggon & fetched the body[.] he died an hour after we put him in the waggon[.] this made me 42 mi. travel for the day. According to Bro. Liddiard's own testimony he has been a soldier in the British Army & lived a verry life of debauchery[.] My opinion is that the remains of venereal disease & want of his accustomed stimulous drinks was the cause of his stopping here[.] age 35 years[.] It was 2 oclock in the morning before got to camp with the body. (Oakley OTD).
Sunday 7th Travelled 26 miles. Bro. Nipras [Neppress] died. Left on road. (Walters OTD).
DAY 91
8th
This morning George Neappris was burried in a sand ridge direct[l]y East of three Rocky Mounds 27 miles from the crossings in the bend of the North side of the River.
This morning George Neappris was burried in a sand ridge direct[l]y East of three Rocky Mounds 27 miles from the crossings in the bend of the North side of the River.
2 Possible "three rocky mounds" the one on the right being Independence Rock from the northeast. The dark green line are trees along the Sweetwater.
The camp rolled out at 40 past 9 A.M. and travelled 14 miles. crossed sweet Water by a good bridge.[33] the roads were in many parts rather rough[.] had dinner beside an old trading post close by the Devil's gate camp beside Sweet Water[34] at 30 past 5 P.M. not far from <a> company of apostates. (Galloway OTD).
 |
| Devil's Gate, Wyoming, from the west. |
8 travelled 16 miles nooned at Devil’s Gate[.] roads bad and the winds high, Brother Birch very sick (Ham OTD).
M. 8th Came 14 mi. verry disagreeable winds & dust (Oakley OTD).
Monday 8th 11 miles. Had dinner at Devil’s Gate. (Walters OTD).
DAY 92
9th
The camp rolled out at 30 past 7 A.M. and travelled 16 miles. The roads continued rather rough with a heavey head wind[.] camped at 6 P.M. beside Sweet Water[.] an excellent camp ground. Killed a cow. (Galloway OTD).
The camp rolled out at 30 past 7 A.M. and travelled 16 miles. The roads continued rather rough with a heavey head wind[.] camped at 6 P.M. beside Sweet Water[.] an excellent camp ground. Killed a cow. (Galloway OTD).
9 travelled 16 miles[,] very sick all the afternoon[.] Prayed Earnestly for strength to be able to reach the camp[.] fainted after I got to camp[.] Brother [John] Robinson addminstered to me and I soon got Better[.] Brother Ellisworth killed a cow[.] Camped at the side of the sweet water (Ham OTD).
T. 9th Came 15 mi[.] Camped on the Sweet Water (Oakley OTD).
DAY 93
10th
The camp rolled out at 40 past 7 A.M. and travelled 18 miles. The roads tolerable good to Sweet Water crossing.[35] After that it was sandy for 7 miles. camped at 6 P.M. on Sweet Water[.] a very indifferent camping ground. poor feed. (Galloway OTD).
The camp rolled out at 40 past 7 A.M. and travelled 18 miles. The roads tolerable good to Sweet Water crossing.[35] After that it was sandy for 7 miles. camped at 6 P.M. on Sweet Water[.] a very indifferent camping ground. poor feed. (Galloway OTD).
10 travelled 18 miles[.] Brother Birch still very sick[,] rode in the waggon[.] roads very sandy, winds High and my Breath very bad, my Help cometh from the Lord (Ham OTD).
W. 10th Came 16 mi (Oakley OTD).
DAY 94
11th
The camp rolled out at 40 past 7 A.M. and travelled 19 miles[.] the first part of the journey the roads pretty good[.] No Water for 12 miles[.] you will then come to a good stream of Water and good feed[.] take the left hand road[.] Travelled 8 miles to a creek[.][36] a poor camping ground. middling feed[.] camped at six P.M. about 11 P.M. Bro McCarthur's [McArthur's] Company came up[.] they had travelled nearly night and day to overtake us. (Galloway OTD).
The camp rolled out at 40 past 7 A.M. and travelled 19 miles[.] the first part of the journey the roads pretty good[.] No Water for 12 miles[.] you will then come to a good stream of Water and good feed[.] take the left hand road[.] Travelled 8 miles to a creek[.][36] a poor camping ground. middling feed[.] camped at six P.M. about 11 P.M. Bro McCarthur's [McArthur's] Company came up[.] they had travelled nearly night and day to overtake us. (Galloway OTD).
T. 11th 20 mi but came 2 mi. out of our way mistaking our way taking the left hand road for a cut off but it was a cut on. Camped on a small creek on the Genuine Cut off 6 mi from the turn off to the left[.][37] 10 oclock at night Bro. Dan[ie]l McArthur & co. came to camp with us the 1st time since leaving Florence Mo. (Oakley OTD).
DAY 95
12th
The camp rolled out at 45 past 7 A.M. and travelled 12 miles. the greatest part of the road very hilly & rough[.] a good spring of Water about 6 miles from where we started this morning[.] camped at 45 past 1 P.M. good camping ground[.] feed pretty fair. plenty of good spring Water[38] about 200 yds from the road right side. (Galloway OTD).
The camp rolled out at 45 past 7 A.M. and travelled 12 miles. the greatest part of the road very hilly & rough[.] a good spring of Water about 6 miles from where we started this morning[.] camped at 45 past 1 P.M. good camping ground[.] feed pretty fair. plenty of good spring Water[38] about 200 yds from the road right side. (Galloway OTD).
12 travelled 13 miles[,] campd on a nice Peice of ground[.] Beautiful weather (Ham OTD).
Fri. 12th Came 15 mi. on the cut off & camped by a good spring[.] to the left of us excelent feed[.] I whiped a man for stubbornly refusing to walk[.] this according to my presidents orders[.] the man's name is Green[39] (Oakley OTD).
F. 12th Sarah very poorly. Harriet quite well. (Walters OTD).
DAY 96
13th
The camp rolled out at 40 past 7 A.M. & travelled 28 miles[.] The [road] was very good. We took the cutt off 6 miles from where we started[.] there is good creek of Water and pretty good feed about 200 yds from where the road crosses the creek. 9 miles farther on there is another good creek and feed[.] it is nott far from the head of sweet water[.] camped at 9 P.M. at the Pacific Springs.[40] here we came up with the main body of Capt. Banks company. they had 10 days clear start of us from Florence[.] Mary Mayo[41] Died of Diarrhea age 65[.] buried close to the bigg Mountain Left hand side of the road (Galloway OTD).
The camp rolled out at 40 past 7 A.M. & travelled 28 miles[.] The [road] was very good. We took the cutt off 6 miles from where we started[.] there is good creek of Water and pretty good feed about 200 yds from where the road crosses the creek. 9 miles farther on there is another good creek and feed[.] it is nott far from the head of sweet water[.] camped at 9 P.M. at the Pacific Springs.[40] here we came up with the main body of Capt. Banks company. they had 10 days clear start of us from Florence[.] Mary Mayo[41] Died of Diarrhea age 65[.] buried close to the bigg Mountain Left hand side of the road (Galloway OTD).
 |
| From the Seminoe Cutoff. South Pass is just to the right of the peaks on the left. On the right are the Oregon Buttes. |
came to the Pacific Springs about Sept. 10th, where we have [sic] a severe snow and rain storm. Here I was called out on guard to keep our cattle from straying off in the storm. (Phillips WMH).
 |
| South Pass, darker segment of horizon on the left, from the southwest. Pacific Butte on the right. Pacific Springs is the green lowland, center-right, below Pacific Butte. |
13 travelled 25 miles did not get into camp till ten o clock[.] very weary and tired[.] camped with Part of the St Louis company and Passed another portion of them at noon[.] Brother Palmer was with them and a son of Chambers from the valley to meet his Parents from Mac Arthurs company (Ham OTD).
Sat. 13th Came 28 mi[.] 15 mi on the cut off[.] traveled till 11 o.c. at night[.] found many waggons of Bro. John Bank's Co. at this camp[.] at the Pacific Spring scarcely any feed[.] a sis Mary Mayo died of disentery[.] She had little faith & had grumbled much (age 65)[.] burried her here. Came 3 mi & camped by a springy grassy spot for the day[.] some 5 waggons from the Valley (Patriarch John Smith[42] in Co.) with Flour for the Hand Cart Com'y[.] Meeting in the evening[.] I conducted it. Prest El[l]sworth unwell[.] Patriarch J. Smith spoke some to us (Oakley OTD).
Saturday 13th Travelled 28 miles. Camped at Paciffick [Pacific] Springs. Trucked a blanket with a brother from the Valley who came from Rotherham, named Goldsmith,[43] part of Bro. [John] Bankses[44] Wagon Co. (Walters OTD).
[The next season, William Aitken left the church, left Utah, and returned East on the Overland trail. He claimed to have seen the remains of Mary Mayo at Pacific Springs], “As I passed, her long brown hair were mingled with the tattered garments that covered her poor worn carcass.” (Aitkin[45] OTD).
DAY 97
14th
The camp rolled at 9 A.M. and travelled 3 miles[46] where there was plenty of feed for the cattle. (Galloway OTD).
The camp rolled at 9 A.M. and travelled 3 miles[46] where there was plenty of feed for the cattle. (Galloway OTD).
14 travelled 4 miles and camped for the day it being sunday[.] four waggons from the valley arrived going out to meet the last Emigrants[.] Brother John Smith the Patrach [Patriarch] was with them[.] had a meeting in the Evening[.] the Brethen from the valley addressed us[,] allso Brother Elilsworth[.] Brother Birch still very sick (Ham OTD).
Sunday 14th Travelled 3 miles. Camped to mend hand carts and women to wash. Sister [Mary] Mayer died. (Walters OTD).
DAY 98
15th
The camp rolled at 7 A.M. and travelled 26 miles. a creek of water 12 miles from where we started[.] allso feed. here we rested two hours. 16 miles we camped at Little sandy. we got plenty of water by digging for it. plenty of wood and pretty good feed. campe[d] at 9 P.M. very good roads. (Galloway OTD).
The camp rolled at 7 A.M. and travelled 26 miles. a creek of water 12 miles from where we started[.] allso feed. here we rested two hours. 16 miles we camped at Little sandy. we got plenty of water by digging for it. plenty of wood and pretty good feed. campe[d] at 9 P.M. very good roads. (Galloway OTD).
 |
| Little Sandy Crossing |
15 travelled 26 miles Hindered by a storm two Hours[.] Had to Pitch our tents[.] got to camp very late and my spirits very depressed[.] comfort me and strengthen me O Lord God for thou knowest my whole trust is in thee, (Ham OTD).
Mon. 15th Came 26 mi & camped on Little Sandy[.] poor feed—no water except by digging 2 feet in the creek bottom (Oakley OTD).
DAY 99
16th
The camp rolled out at 30 past 8 A.M. and travelled 23 miles. good roads[.] crossed a splended creek of water 5 miles from Little Sandy. camped on the banks of bigg Sandy at 7 P.M. plenty of wood on the opposite side of the River[.] poor feed for cattle. (Galloway OTD).
The camp rolled out at 30 past 8 A.M. and travelled 23 miles. good roads[.] crossed a splended creek of water 5 miles from Little Sandy. camped on the banks of bigg Sandy at 7 P.M. plenty of wood on the opposite side of the River[.] poor feed for cattle. (Galloway OTD).
16 travelled 24 miles fainted and fell from the cart[.] Brother Robinson administered to me[.] walked to the camp but did not pull the cart[.] Brother Watts shot 2 Hares and a sage Hen[.] Brother Hanson shot 1 Hare and a sage Hen[.] Brother Birch very sick (Ham OTD).
T. 16th Came 23 mi. Camped on big Sandy[.][47] verry scanty feed. (Oakley OTD).
DAY 100
17th
James Birch[48] age 28 Died this morning of Diarrhea. burried on the top of sand ridge East side of Sandy.
James Birch[48] age 28 Died this morning of Diarrhea. burried on the top of sand ridge East side of Sandy.
The camp rolled out at 8 & travelled 11 miles. rested 4 hours by the side of Green River. Forded the River[49] about 4 P.M. & camp[ed] about 6 P.M. Good feed & camping ground. (Galloway OTD).
 |
| Pilot Butte south of Big Sandy (in the canyon). Landmark can be seen from before Big Sandy crossing to some distance beyond Green River Crossing. |
17 sister Birch woke us about four o clock[,] found that her Husband had Breathed his last in Peace and without a strugle or a groan[.] he has left a widdow [Mary Ann Hale Birch] and three children [Thomas, Mary Ann, and Edward James] and she very soon expects another[.] [illegible] very poorly[,] was administered to by Brother Ellisworth before we started[.] walked on a Head with Johny Robinson[.] could not keep up with the carts[,] got sick and vomited three times[.] reached the camp at noon[.] the vomiting continued and allso Diarheria[.] suffered Extreme Pain for some Hours[.] Brother Ellisworth & Robinson administered to me and said I should live and go up to the valley rejoicing[.] several said I was going to die but I Believed their word and felt that I should live, was took to camp in the waggon[.] camped at green river (Ham OTD).
W. 17th Bro Ja[me]s Birch died of disentery (age 28) burried him by the side of the road near the river on the bluff[.] Came 11 mi. he had murmured considerable[.] Camped on Green River (Oakley OTD).
It was easy to make our way over Green River for the crossing had already been prepared. It did us good to view Green River valley. It was almost like taking a rest. (Sabin OTD).
DAY 101
18th
At 8 P.[A]M. the camp rolled & travelled 22 [miles.] good roads. camp[ed] on Ham's Fork[50] at 7 P.M. good feed for Cattle & Wood. (Galloway OTD).
At 8 P.[A]M. the camp rolled & travelled 22 [miles.] good roads. camp[ed] on Ham's Fork[50] at 7 P.M. good feed for Cattle & Wood. (Galloway OTD).
 |
| Ham's Fork at Granger, Wyoming. |
18 Better[.] walked on a Head[,] rode a few milles in Brother Oakelys waggon[.] met Brother Parley Pratt[51] and many other Brethen going on missions[.] they gave away Biscuits[,] Potatoes[,] cheese[,] fish &c[.] Hannah got a Potatoe and had it ready Boiled by the time I came up to the camp[.] I thought it was the nicest I ever Eat, walked to camp in the afternoon (Ham OTD).
T. 18th Came 26 mi. Camp in Ham's Fork[.] feed exceding scanty (Oakley OTD).
September 18th, we were very agreeably surprised by suddenly coming upon the advance train of hand-carts, composed of about 300 persons, traveling gently up the hill west of Green river, led by Elder Edmund Ellsworth. As the two companies approached each other, the camp of missionaries formed in line, and gave three loud Hosannahs, with the waving of hats, which was heartily led by Elder P. Pratt, responded to by loud greetings from the Saints of the hand-cart train, who unitedly made the hills and valleys resound with shouts of gladness; the memory of this scene will never be forgotten by any person present. We inquired the reason why we had not heard any word from them, and they answered, "We have out-travelled every other company, not one has passed us, no, not even a solitary horseman, so we have to carry our own report, and we should have been here sooner if the teams which carry the heavy luggage could have travelled any faster." They were very cheerful and happy, and we blessed them in the name of the Lord, and they went on their way rejoicing. The same day we met a company of hand-carts, led by Elder D. McArthur; (Bullock, Thomas,[52] OTD).
 |
| Hill west of Green River crossing where the pioneers likely met the missionaries. |
DAY 102
19th
The camp rolled out at 30 past 9 A.M. & travelled 23 miles[.] the roads good[.] a poor place for feed. camped at 9 P.M. (Galloway OTD).
The camp rolled out at 30 past 9 A.M. & travelled 23 miles[.] the roads good[.] a poor place for feed. camped at 9 P.M. (Galloway OTD).
Fri. 19th Came 25 mi. Camped on Blacks Fork[53] Gloomy Gloomy prospect—it seemed that circumstances had conspired to cheat us out of the little grass there was along this part of the road (Oakley OTD).
DAY 103
20th
The camp rolled out at 45 past 6 A.M. & travelled 9 miles to Bridger. the road rather rough & Rocky. camped at Bridger for the day at 15 past 10 A.M. Killed a first rate fat ox; Shoed sevirall of the oxen.
The camp rolled out at 45 past 6 A.M. & travelled 9 miles to Bridger. the road rather rough & Rocky. camped at Bridger for the day at 15 past 10 A.M. Killed a first rate fat ox; Shoed sevirall of the oxen.
at Ft. Bridger, where Lewis Robinson[54] of Utah was staying. He killed a beef ox for our company. Here we were entertained with a good dance. [Phillips, Jonah WMH]
Sat. 20th Came 10 mi. & camped at Ft Bridger—providentially Bro. Lewis Robinson had reserved a plot of grass & gave us permission to turn our famishing cattle on it—employed the time in shoeing cattle &c[.] purchased a fat Beef Ox from Bro. R. (Oakley OTD).
At Fort Bridger we stopped all night. The men killed a beef. This was our first meat since leaving the buffalo on the prairies. At Fort Bridger we met Bro. Parley P. Pratt. He was then starting on his last mission. (Sabin OTD).
DAY 104
21st
At 7 A.M. the camp rolled and travelled 22 miles. the roads were good[.] crossed severall creeks. passed a sulphur & Soda spring. camped at 6 P.M. plenty of Wood & feed but no Water.[55] (Galloway OTD).
At 7 A.M. the camp rolled and travelled 22 miles. the roads were good[.] crossed severall creeks. passed a sulphur & Soda spring. camped at 6 P.M. plenty of Wood & feed but no Water.[55] (Galloway OTD).
Sun. 21st Came 23 mi. Camped on high ridge[.] a Bro Bailey[56] left the camp at noon & went back (Oakley OTD).
From this on cattle got foot sore causing us to move slow. At Bear River we stayed a day to rest the cattle. (Phillips WMH).
DAY 105
22d
The camp rolled out at 30 past 5 A.M. & travelled 23 miles. had breakfast 6 miles from where we started. About 3 P. [M]. Met with Brigham & Helen's son[.] they were glad to see us. about half past 5 we were taken in a thunder storm and travelled an hour and a half in it. Camped at 6 P.M. plenty of Water & feed. Wood rather scarce.
The camp rolled out at 30 past 5 A.M. & travelled 23 miles. had breakfast 6 miles from where we started. About 3 P. [M]. Met with Brigham & Helen's son[.] they were glad to see us. about half past 5 we were taken in a thunder storm and travelled an hour and a half in it. Camped at 6 P.M. plenty of Water & feed. Wood rather scarce.
The waggon with the tents did not arrive till 12 midnight[.] we were cold & wet. still we felt all right (Galloway OTD).
M. 22nd Came 24 mi[.] Camped by Bed Bug Cave[.][57] altogether the worst time since starting[.] at eve[nin]g a heavy rain came on as we were ascending a high hill[.] many of some 60 persons men women & children hugging the waggons to keep out of the rain[.] stoped a little to see if the rain would stop[.] the cattle refused to pull[.] it seemed as though the Elements combined with evil spirits had conspired against us—cloudy & dark so we could not see the road[.] the Hand Carts headed by Bro. El[l]sworth had gone on 5 mi.—by doubling teams I got the waggons to the top of the hill but dare not go down again—for it seemed to me extremely dangerous in the dark—waited some 2½ hours for some one to come from the Hand Cart Co. Bro. A. Hinkley came first & then Bro. El[l]sworth—Bro. E[llsworth] scolded much but it took some of it to rouse the wet cold <(for there was no wood nor sage brush)> sleepy company. Bro. E[llsworth] went ahead & we all followed in drear silence. found the Hand Cart Co. not much better condition—found an ox in the camp ground fat & seemed at home in the mountains—one man of the Italian brethren died.[58] (Oakley OTD).
When within one day’s journey of Salt Lake City we ran out of provisions. Two men who had joined us at the fort were on their way to Salt Lake City.
“What word shall we take from you?” said they to the Captain.
“Tell them we haven’t a bite of food left in camp.” said Captain Ellsworth.
A relief party met us with food before we arrived in Salt Lake City. How enchanting it was to enter Echo Canyon to call and have the echo answer. (Sabin OTD).
Upon arriving at Echo, Utah I became very sick and was forced to lie on the ground due to the pain in my stomach. After praying and resting a short time, I was able to continue on. As the company had gone on down the canyon, I was forced to travel alone, there being a terrible rainstorm raging and I was unable to see except when the lighting would flash. While traveling alone, I overtook an Italian and his little girl with their handcart. They also had been left behind to die. This man died before morning. I buried him the best I could, not having a shovel. I then traveled on, taking the little girl and her cart with me. During that day we overtook another man and his daughter by the name of Clark. They also had been left by the main company. I said to myself later, “Had it not been for Mr. Clark and his assistance I could not have continued on.” We overtook the main company the following day. Here we camped to bury our dead. Our provisions almost exhausted, we all cut down to one cup of flour a day. (Butler FS).
Continue to Great Salt Lake City here.
Continue to Great Salt Lake City here.
[1] Probably just west of the modern Nebraska-Wyoming state line.
[2] The ford was on the south side of WY 160 from Fort Laramie town on the north side of the Platte to old Ft. Laramie. (www.oregonpioneers.com/Milepost3.htm “OPM3”) (https://www.wyohistory.org/travel/oregon-trail “WHOT”)
[3] Walters below, says it was his wife, Eliza. Sister Ham may have made a mistake with the names.
[4] “Bitter Cottonwood” appears to be modern Cottonwood Creek where the Oregon Trail crosses the creek and Wendover Road southwest of the Guernsey Reservoir, not the smaller Little Cottonwood Creek a couple of miles beyond. The Company was on the main Oregon Trail at this point and would have passed Register Cliff and the deep ruts just south of Guernsey, WY. (OPM3, WHOT).
[5] Horseshoe Creek is where the I-25 crosses the trail just west of Glendo Reservoir, south of the town of Glendo, WY. (WHOT).
[6] The ford was at Orin, WY, on the west side of WY 319, east of where I-25 crosses the North Platte. (WHOT). This put the Company back on the north side of the North Platte, on the Mormon Pioneer Trail, or Council Bluffs Road. (Franzwa).
[7] Not sure where this ford was but it may have been near the modern town of Douglas, WY.
[8] This is probably La Prele Creek, north of Ayres Natural Bridge.
[9] At Glenrock, WY, on the south side of the North Platte. Deer Creek shows on modern maps.
[10] Robert Stoddart [also “Stoddard”] (1805-1856). See fn. For William Stoddart at Day 47.
[11] Thomas Lorenzo Margetts (1819-1856). From Woodstock, Oxford, England. First emigrated in 1851 with the John Brown Co. Mission to Italy in 1853, returned to Utah in 1855 with the Moses Thurston Co. No explanation yet found as to why he was travelling east in 1856. Reported killed by Indians. (OTD, FS) Report of A Henry Bauichter to Captain James Willie and Millen Atwood on 8 September 1856 was that he was a discharged soldier of Ft. Laramie who came upon Margetts and a James Cowdy from Great Salt Lake City on their way to the States. He claimed that he had been buffalo hunting with Margetts and that on 6th September 1856, he found Margetts, Cowdy, and Cowdy’s wife dead, their wagons on fire, and Indians riding away. (Deseret News of 22 October 1856, in OTD under Bunker Co., 1856). Phillip Margetts, a brother of Thomas Margetts claimed to have heard a similar story from “a discharged soldier from Ft. Kearney travelling with [his brother’s party] to the States.” (The Mormon, 18 July 1857, in OTD under “Company Unknown, 1856.”) These sources link these killings to the death of Almon W. Babbitt, Mormon Representative to the U.S. Government, at approximately the same time period. No additional information has been found on a matching “Cowley” or “Cowdy” family in Utah before 1856.
[12] Likely Dimick Baker Huntington (1808-1879). From Watertown, NY. In Mormon Battalion with Sick Detachment to Pueblo and Utah in 1847. Appointed Supt. of Indian Affairs in UT Terr. By BY in 1853. Missionary among the Indians. (FS).
[13] This could be John Bunney (1827-1913) from Cornwall, who settled first in Bountiful, UT, then Montpelier, ID. Or it could be a reference to Michael Beus (1811-1888) on of the Piedmontese Saints. More likely it’s Bunney as Ellsworth was having communication problems with the Italians.
[14] See fn. At Day 60.
[15] Not yet identified. Likely one of the men with the Church wagons sent out to meet the handcarts as were Snyder and Hinckley (below).
[16] Probably Chester Snyder (1815-1888). Made several trips out and back assisting pioneers. Listed among the Rescue Companies of 1856. (FS, OTD).
[17] Arza Erastus Hinckley (1826-1901). Brother of Grandfather of Gordon B. Hinckley. “[handcarts] met by a relief wagon train of which Arza was a part. This occurred Aug. 31st at a place known as Deer Creek. Arza’s account briefly and modestly stated, ‘I went out and met the first handcart company 400 miles and traveled in with them.’” (FS, OTD).
[18] This became Fort Caspar on the south side of the North Platte River at present-day Casper, WY. In 1856 it was called Camp Davis and was located southwest of the Reshaw (or Richard – in French) Bridge.
[19] The accounts are hard to reconcile here as there were several routes and crossings at present-day Caspar, WY. It may be that Oakley with a wagon was on a slightly different route than the handcarts.
[20] If this is four miles from Camp Davis [Fort Caspar] it would be on the east side of present-day Caspar, WY on the south side of the North Platte.
[21] Likely crossing is Reshaw’s Bridge in use in 1856. The bridge was on the river north of Camp Davis [Fort Caspar] just west of the present bridge on SW Wyoming Boulevard in Caspar, WY. This would be the last crossing of the North Platte as it curved up from the south.
[22] This appears to be Jonathan Grimshaw (1818-1888). Grimshaw had worked in the Church Historian’s Office and by 1856, had become disillusioned with life in Utah and left with his family for England settling in the St. Louis, MO area. According to Historian Ardis E. Parshall, Grimshaw originally travelled with Margetts and Cowdy who went ahead in their faster-paced carriages. (see above on day 83). (FS, OTD, email from AE Parshall, and https://boaporg.wordpress.com/2009/07/08/jonathan-grimshaw-and-honorable-doubts-part-3/ )
[23] Not yet identified.
[24] The Overland Trail here was a few miles west of current Wyoming Highway 220 coming up from Casper, WY.
[25] Possibly Clayton’s Slough although there were other alkali waters along this route.
[26] Appears to be Willow Spring based on Oakley reference below. This was a popular campground about half way between the North Platte and Independence Rock.
[27] This probably refers to Clayton’s Slough before and Mineral Lake just over Emigrant Gap.
[28] See fn. at Day 16.
[29] Likely Horse Creek. A Pony Express Station was established here a few years later.
[30] The trail first comes close to the Sweetwater where it now crosses Buzzard Road off of Wyoming 220.
[31] At Independence Rock.
[32] George Neppress (1833-1856). Bricklayer from Cardiff, Wales.
[33] At Independence Rock.
[34] Not far from later-named Martin’s Cove. They were on the north side of the Sweetwater at this point.
[35] It is not clear how many times they crossed the Sweetwater. They were on the south side from Devil’s Gate on for a while. They only mention one but they may have done the three additional at Three Crossings just east of present-day Jeffrey City. Here the Trail narrowed between hills and it was a long way around through sand. (WHOT).
[36] Probably Warm Springs.
[37] On the Seminoe Cutoff. This was the preferred route by 1856. (http://wyoshpo.state.wy.us/trailsdemo/seminoecutoff.htm)
[38] Possibly modern-day Mormon Spring or Emigrant Spring about four miles apart on the Seminoe Cutoff. (BLM Map, WHOT).
[39] This appears to be William Hale Green (1825-1887). Born in Wiltshire, England, a miner. Married Matilda Watkins (1841-1918) who came in the McArthur Co. in 1868. Settled in Tooele Co., Utah, where William mined and then became a bootmaker. (FS).
[40] As Sister Mayo was buried “close to the bigg Mountain [Pacific Butte] Left hand side of the road,” the camp was likely on the left or south side of the swampy area of Pacific Springs.
[41] Mary Mayo (1791-1856). Born Mary Taylor in Sollers Hope, Herefordshire, near Ledbury, a market-town not far from Benbow’s Farm and center of Mormon preaching after visits by Wilford Woodruff to area in 1840. Mary married William Mayo in 1824. They had two known children, daughters Caroline and Elizabeth. William died before 1851 as Mary is listed as a widow living with the two known daughters. (FS).
[42] Patriarch John Smith (1832-1911). Nephew to Joseph Smith, Jr.
[43] Not yet identified. No one in Banks Co. appears to match.
[44] John Banks (1806-1862). First arrived in Salt Lake Valley in 1850 with John Morse Co. Returning missionary led wagon company that left Florence, NE, 9 July 1856, arriving in the Valley between 22 Sept. and 5 Oct. 1856.
[45] William Knox Aitkin (1819-1864) Travelled with the McArthur Co. Born in Edenborough, Scotland, returned and died there.
[46] This is likely three miles down Pacific Creek from wherever they camped at the Springs. In present day, just off WY State Rd. 28.
[47] This would be near present-day Farson, WY, where the trail would have met the Big Sandy.
[48] See fn. above for his father, William. There is a possible grave site for James Birch and an interpretive sign on Wyoming Highway 28 at the Pilot Butte Historical Marker turn-out. However, the contemporaneous accounts seem to indicate that James died in the night at the Big Sandy Camp, apparently before they crossed, and was buried on the east side of the Big Sandy the morning they left which would be in the town of Farson today.
[49] It is most likely that Ellsworth forded at the crossing about 4 miles south of Mormon (AKA Lombard) Ferry. Berrett says this was the most used route at this time. The missionaries met them on the west side of the river coming up an apparently popular trail. And a ford, not a ferry is mentioned. This is most likely the hill west of where there is now a sign for the four trails crossing La Barge Rd., Wyoming No. 372, 41°45'37.8"N 109°47'26.3"W. (SP6, and personal observation of trail).
[50] Somewhere near present-day Granger, Wyoming, where the trail crosses Ham’s Fork.
[51] Parley P. Pratt (1807-1857). LDS Apostle, leaving for his last mission and death in Arkansas.
[52] Thomas Bullock (1816-1885). Originally from Leek, Staffordshire, England. Served as a clerk in the Church Historian’s Office. Participated in Handcart Rescue 1856.
[53] Nine miles out from Ft. Bridger is close to where I-80 crosses Black’s Fork, probably just north.
[54] Lewis Robinson (1816-1883) while a long-time friend of the LDS Church and the Prophet, Joseph Smith, Lewis was not baptized until 1846 in Nauvoo. He came West in 1847 In the Charles C. Rich Co. with wife, Clarissa Minerva Duzette (1822-1891), and son Solo Wells (1822-1891), He was at Ft. Bridger with his second, plural wife, Mary Jane Waite (1836-1922). Participated in the Handcart Rescue. He later lived in Battle Creek (Pleasant Grove), and the Salt Lake Valley where he died.
[55] Past Sulpher Spring and before the Bear River would place this near present-day Hilliard, WY, on WY Highway 173.
[56] James Bailey (1803-1871). Was from Birmingham, England and traveled with his wife Mary Ann Woodcock Bailey (1804-1886), and children Andrew John (1835-1872), Thomas (1837-1907), Alfred (1839-1908), Mary Ann (1841-1898), and Louisa (1844-1916). “Went back” must refer to going back to Ft. Bridger as they arrived in Salt Lake Valley with Co. The family settled in Ephraim, Sanpete Co., UT.
[57] More generally known as “Cache Cave” a mile from I-80. There is currently a trail-crossing sign where the trail crosses I-80 near Castle Rock, UT.see
[58] For identification of this "Italian Brother" as Jean Michel Rochon, see: http://grantsfamhist.blogspot.com/2017/08/a-death-in-echo-canyon.html?m=1
[58] For identification of this "Italian Brother" as Jean Michel Rochon, see: http://grantsfamhist.blogspot.com/2017/08/a-death-in-echo-canyon.html?m=1
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