STORY AND DIARIES

OF THE WILLIE HANDCART

COMPANY PART 1 OF 2 President Brigham Young Excerpt from remarks given on October 5, 1856, Journal of Discourses, Vol. 4, pp. 113-114

To-morrow our semi-annual Conference will allow the brethren to tell something about commences, and I notice that many have come in their missions, by way of exhortation to wind up from a distance. We shall have large congregations with. during the Conference, and we wish perfect order I will tell you all that your faith, religion, maintained. and profession of religion, will never save one soul I will now give this people the subject and of you in the celestial kingdom of our God, unless the text for the Elders who may speak to-day and you carry out just such principles as I am now during the Conference, it is this, on the 5th day of teaching you. Go and bring in those people now on October, 1856, many of our brethren and sisters the Plains, and attend strictly to those things which are on the Plains with hand-carts, and probably we call temporal, or temporal duties, otherwise many are now seven hundred miles from this your faith will be in vain; the preaching you have place, and they must be brought here, we must heard will be in vain to you, and you will sink to send assistance to them. The text will be-to get hell, unless you attend to the things we tell you. them here! I want the brethren who may speak to Any man or woman can reason this out in their understand that their text is the people on the own minds, without trouble. The Gospel has been Plains, and the subject matter for this community already preached to those brethren and sisters now is to send for them and bring them in before the on the Plains; they have believed and obeyed it, winter sets in. and are willing to do anything for salvation; they That is my religion; that is the dictation of are doing all they can do, and the Lord has done the Holy Ghost that I possess, it is to save the peo- all that is required of Him to do, and has given us ple. We must bring them in from the Plains, and power to bring them in from the Plains, and teach when we get them here, we will try to keep the them the further things of the kingdom of God, same spirit that we have had, and teach them the and prepare them to enter into the celestial king- way of life and salvation; tell them how they can dom of their Father. First and foremost is to secure be saved, and how they can save their friends. This our own salvation and do right pertaining to our- is the salvation I am now seeking for, to save our selves, and then extend the hand of right to save brethren that would be apt to perish, or suffer ex- others. tremely, if we do not send them assistance. I shall call upon the Bishops this day, I shall not wait until to-morrow, nor until next day, for sixty good mule teams and twelve or fifteen wagons. I do not want to send oxen, I want good horses and mules. They are in this Territory, and we must have them; also twelve tons of flour and forty good teamsters, besides those that drive the teams. This is dividing my text into heads; first, forty good young men who know how to drive teams, to take charge of the teams that are now managed by men, women, and children who know nothing about driving them; second, sixty or sixty- five good spans of mules, or horses, with harness, whipple-trees, neck-yokes, stretchers, load chains, &c.; and, thirdly, twenty-four thousand pounds of flour, which we have on hand. I will repeat the division; forty extra team- sters is number one; sixty spans of mules or horses is part of number two; twelve tons of flour, and wagons to take it, is number three; and, fourthly, I

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 1856 suitable to the times, which was well received by the people; he bid the camp good by & went on his Willie Company Journal way to the States. Bro. Willie accompanied him to The Handcart Company rolled out of Fort Laramie. Camp about noon and the 4 wagons then turned The camp rolled on as usual, traveled back to an elevated spot of ground commanding a about 7 miles & camped. A meeting was held in full view of the Fort. The first thing this morning the evening, Bros. Willie, Atwood & Savage ad- it was discovered that several sisters had left the dressed it on the necessity of shortening the rations Camp and had taken up their residence at the Fort. of the camp, that our flour might hold out till sup- Early this morning Bro. David Reeder died, aged plies should meet us. The people were willing to 54. He was born at Rumburgh, Suffolk, in Eng- listen to Capt. Willie's suggestion, & it was land. unanimously approved of by the people. Capt. Willie with some brethren returned to Fort Laramie with the mule team on business. Levi Savage Journal W. Woodward had charge of the company during Early This Morning. I returned to the Fort the day. Rolled about 7 miles and camped on the to make the sale of my watch. It cost me $20 and I banks of the river Platte. sold it for $11 and purchased a pair of $6 boots William Read died coming to camp in a and other articles. I then proceeded to overtake the wagon - he was born at North Crawley, Bucking- camp. On my way I met a company of Elders hamshire, England, aged 63. from the Valley bound to the different nations of Capt. Willie & the Brethren returned to the earth to preach the gospel. I met Brother P. P. camp. Some missionaries from Salt Lake passed Pratt in camp. He spoke cheeringly to the Saints. by our camp & informed us that Brother P. P. Pratt Today Brother Reade died of a disease of the & other missionaries were camped about 4 miles heart. He is age 64. from us up the river. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3, 1856 Levi Savage Journal Platte River. This morning Brother David Willie Company Journal Reader was found dead in his bed. He has been ill Road leaves the River, ascended some for some time. He had no particular disease, but of steep bluffs & rolled on. Nooned on a dry creek. debility. He was a good man and a worthy mem- Rolled on again, descended the Bluffs & travelled ber of the Church. Brother Siler and company till dark. Camped by the road, travelled about 21 stopped here to recruit and strengthen his teams, miles. Peter Larsen, aged 43, from Lolland, Den- and to join the first wagon company that arrives mark, died during the day. here bound for the Valley. Our camp moved on, and Brothers Willey, Atwood, myself and others Levi Savage Journal went to the Fort and purchased provisions. They Platte River. Today we left the river, are extremely costly. I stopped all night with crossed over the hills; it is said to be twenty-two Brother Siler and company. miles to food and water. We travelled until eight o'clock p.m. and camped within a half mile of a THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2, 1856 spring, but no feed for our cattle. We were all fa- tigued. Brother Ingra, aged 68, died just after we Willie Company Journal camped. Morning fine. Several missionaries came into camp this morning, among which was Thomas SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4, 1856 Bullock - they were in good spirits, several breth- ren went on to the wagons as they were traveling Willie Company Journal & Bro. Parley came to camp, preached a discourse The camp rolled on about 3 miles & the

3 DAILY ACCOUNT Willie Handcart Company company staid to allow the sisters to wash clothes, certain of supplies before arriving at the Pacific &c. Benjamin Culley, aged 61, from Sprowston, Springs. Norfolk, England, died; also George Ingra, aged 68, from Bassingbourne, Cambridgeshire, England TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7,1856 died; also Daniel Gadd, aged 2, from Orwell, Cambridgeshire, England, died. A cow was killed Willie Company Journal in the afternoon. Travelled about 3 miles & forded the Platte River. Roads generally good, some few Levi Savage Journal hills. Nooned on a creek that was nearly dry. This morning at ten o'clock we started and Rolled on again & camped on the banks of the travelled about five miles to a small creek and en- Platte. Travelled about 15 miles. camped. We took an estimate of our provisions and reduced our rations to twelve ounces per day. Levi Savage Journal The Pacific Springs is the only place that we are Platte River. Today we travelled fourteen sure of meeting supplies. Brother Benjamine miles. The weather is good. Culley, aged 61 years, and David Gadd, aged 2 years, died. They were buried at dawn. Some WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8, 1856 stealing is practiced by some; consequently, we put all the provisions into three wagons and placed a Willie Company Journal guard over them. This morning one of our best oxen be- longing to the P.E. Fund, died - supposed to have SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5, 1856 eaten a poisonous weed. The camp rolled on, roads splendid, some few hills; crossed a clear Willie Company Journal running stream & rolled on to the Platte & nooned The camp rolled on, roads good, nooned where the Black Hills road intersects the river on the Platte; rolled again, crossed some hills, then road. Rolled on about 5 miles farther & camped on some splendid road, arrived at the crossing of the Deer Creek. Four U.S. soldiers from Laramie on Platte - the company forded the river & camped on their way to a military post camped near us. A its banks. Travelled about 15 miles. cow was killed in the evening for the use of the camp. Travelled about 15 miles during the day. Levi Savage Journal Eight o'clock this morning we got under- Levi Savage Journal way. Have good roads, travelled about sixteen Deer Creek. This morning when we arose, miles and camped by the Platte. The weather is we found the best ox on our train dead. In the very fine. weak state of our teams, the loss impaired us much. At nine o'clock a.m. we moved. We trav- MONDAY, OCTOBER 6, 1856 elled fifteen miles. Our old people are nearly all failing fast. A four-mule team, an express from Willie Company Journal Laramie, is camping near us. They passed us this Roads good, the Handcarts roll fine, the afternoon. ox-teams are nearly always in the rear; nooned for an hour on the Platte & then rolled a few miles THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9, 1856 farther. Travelled about 16 miles. Willie Company Journal Levi Savage Journal Rolled on 9 112 miles & nooned on the Platte River. Today we travelled sixteen Platte. Samuel Gadd, from Orwell, Cambridge- miles. Our rations are now reduced to an average shire, England died in the afternoon, aged 42 of twelve ounces of flour per head. We are not years. The company rolled on 7 miles farther &

4 DAILY ACCOUNT Willie Handcart Company camped on the banks of the Platte. camped at a clear stream of water, travelled about 13 3/4 miles. A cow was killed that was not fit to Levi Savage Journal travel. The night was cold. Today we moved sixteen miles. Levi Savage Journal FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 1856 Small Creek. Today we left out of the yoke some of our cows that were nearly exhausted. Willie Company Journal Last night our cattle had good feed, and they trav- The company rolled on as usual. After elled much better today than yesterday. One of the travelling a few miles we came up with several cows that was overcome with work could not be U.S. soldiers who had been to get firewood for gotten within a mile of camp. Brother Willey or- their fort. We called at a trading post & obtained dered several of the brethren to go back and kill 37 Buffalo robes for the use of the Handcart Com- her for the people to eat (if they wanted it). They pany, which had been engaged by Bro. F. D. Ri- struck her twice in the head with an ax. She got chards. Travelled about 6 miles & nooned. Rolled up and ran into camp, where she was shot and on again & forded the Platte river and camped on dressed. The people have sharp appetites. its banks. Travelled about 12 miles thro' the day. MONDAY, OCTOBER 13, 1856 Levi Savage Journal Last Crossing of the Platte. At about Willie Company Journal twelve o'clock we passed the Platte Bridge. Here The camp rolled on, passed the "Willow we got thirty-seven buffalo robes, which President Springs," ascended "Prospect Hill," & nooned at a Richards purchased for us. We moved on five "Bad Slough." Rolled on to "Greasewood Creek" miles, crossed the river and encamped. Our teams & camped for the night. Travelled about 13 miles. are very weak. Paul Jacobsen, from Lolland, Denmark, aged 55 died this evening. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11, 1856 Levi Savage Journal Willie Company Journal Greenwood Creek. Today we have trav- Travelled about 12 114 miles & camped; elled thirteen miles. The nights are cold. The days the road was hilly. Several of our cows gave out are warm and pleasant. that were hauling wagons; one died on the road or was killed by wolves. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 1856

Levi Savage Journal Willie Company Journal Mineral Springs. Today we travelled Weather splendid. Road sandy. Rolled on twelve miles. Three of our working cows gave out to the Saleratus Lake & nooned. Travelled on, & and one died. The remainder of our oxen were the Handcarts with the people crossed the Sweet- nearly overcome. water River on a bridge. The teams & wagons forded the stream. Camped about a mile west of SUNDAY, OCTOBER 12, 1856 "Independence Rock." Came about 13 miles. The people gathered considerable Saleratus from a lake Willie Company Journal on the left of the road east of "Independence Alfred Peacock & George Edwick left our Rock" of a superior quality. company & returned towards Fort Laramie. The company rolled on, passed a mineral lake & Levi Savage Journal spring, passed thro' a "Rock Avenue" & nooned at Independence Rock. Today we travelled the Alkali swamps & springs. Rolled on & twelve miles. We crossed the Sweet Water River

5 DAILY ACCOUNT Willie Handcart Company at the second bridge. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16,1856

David Reeder, Quoting Robert Willie Company Journal Nights were getting colder and some Early this morning sister Ella, wife ofOlof would sit down by the roadside and die. My Wicklund was delivered of a son. George Curtis, younger sister, Caroline, 17 years old, after travel- from Norton, Gloucestershire, England, aged 64 ling all day and seeing the camp being made for years died; Lars Julius Larsen, who was born July the night took off her apron to tie some sage brush 5th, 1856 in camp at Iowa City died. John Roberts in to bring into the camp. She sat down to rest, from Bristol, Somersetshire, England, aged 42 leaning on her bundle, exhausted. They found her years died. The camp rolled on, roads hilly & chilled and dying and carried her into camp. She sandy, nooned after travelling about 5 miles; rolled died without gaining consciousness. She, too, was on & camped on the banks of the Sweetwater. placed in an unmarked grave. Many of our company are failing in health. Feed for the cattle scarce. Came about 11 miles. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 1856 Levi Savage Journal Willie Company Journal Sweet Water. This morning we had three Early this morning, Caroline Reeder, from deaths and one birth. We have travelled eleven Linstead, Suffolk, England, aged 17 years, died. miles today. Our oxen are much worn down and The camp rolled on, passed "Devil's Gate" & our loadings were used daily by the weak and sick. nooned after travelling about 6 miles. The camp rolled on & we camped on the banks of the FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17, 1856 Sweetwater after making about 16 miles travel thro' the day. Many of the company are sick & Willie Company Journal have to ride in the wagons. One beef heifer & one William Philpot, aged 51 years, from poor cow were killed this evening for the camp. Southampton, Hampshire, England died this Last evening a council & a meeting were held to morning about 2 o'clock. Camp rolled on in the take into consideration our provisions & the time it morning, roads good, forded the Sweetwater & was considered we should have to make it last be- nooned, after travelling over 7 miles. Bro. Findlay fore we could depend upon supplies. It was found an ox able to work. A calf gave out & was unanimously agreed to reduce the rations of flour killed by wolves. The company rolled on again, one fourth - the men then would get 10 112 ozs. forded the Sweetwater twice between the moun- per day; women & large children 9 ozs. per day; tains & travelled on a piece & camped; willows children 6 ozs. per day; & infants 3 ozs. per day plenty for fuel; Travelled about 13 miles thro' the each. day.

Levi Savage Journal Levi Savage Journal Sweet Water. Today we travelled fifteen Sweet Water. At two o'clock this morn- and a half miles. Last night Caroline Reeder, aged ing Brother William Philpot died and was buried seventeen years, died and was buried this morning. before we started. At ten o'clock the camp moved. The people are getting weak and failing very fast. We travelled ten miles and encamped at sunset. A great many are sick. Our teams are also failing fast, and it requires great exertion to make any SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18, 1856 progress. Our rations were reduced last night, one quarter, bringing the men to ten ounces and the Willie Company Journal women to nine ounces. Some of the children were Rolled on in the morning & nooned on the reduced to six and others to three ounces each. Sweetwater. Forded the Sweetwater after dinner & camped on its banks. Travelled about

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miles. A cow & calf was butchered for the com- vance of us. This was joyful news to us for we had pany. James Henderson from Nixwood, Lanark- eaten the last pound of flour, having only six small shire, Scotland died in the evening, aged 27 years. beefs and 400 pounds of biscuits to provision over 400 people. After a short meeting in which Broth- Levi Savage Journal ers Wheelock and I. Young spoke cheeringly to the Fourth Crossing of the Sweet Water. To- Saints, we moved on. The wind continued strong day we travelled eight miles; camped; killed a and cold. The children, the aged, and infirmed fell beef, and prepared for a sixteen mile drive to wa- back to the wagons until they were so full that all ter. The air is cool, but fair. in them were extremely uncomfortable. Brother Knockles, aged 66 years, died during the day in a SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19, 1856 handcart hitched behind one of the wagons. Sister Smith and Daniel Osborn, age eight years, died in Willie Company Journal the wagons. They had been ill for some time. The Rolled on in the morning, weather very carts arrived at the river at dark. One wagon, it cold. Ann Rowley died this morning, aged 2 yrs. being dark, took another road and did not get into Some of the children were crying with cold. camp until eleven o'clock p.m. They were nearly Passed "Ice Springs"; just after we were passed the exhausted and so were myself and teamsters. "springs" a snow storm came on, which lasted for about half an hour. The company rolled on again, John Chislett's Narrative & were soon met by Cyrus H. Wheelock & Joseph As we ",-were resting for a short time at A. Young & two other brethren from the Valley, noon a light wagon was driven into our camp from bringing us the information that supplies were near the west. Its occupants were Joseph A. Young and at hand, the camp halted, a meeting was called. Stephen Taylor. They informed us that a train of Bro. Wheelock informed us of the liberality of the supplies was on the way, and we might expect to Saints in the Valley, of Bro. Brigham Young's meet it in a day or two. More welcome messen- kindheartedness in speaking in behalf of the Hand- gers never came from the courts of glory than cart companies now on the Plains, & of himself these two young men were to us. They lost no fitting up ten teams & wagons & supplying them time after encouraging us all they could to press with flour, &c., & others in proportion. During the forward, but sped on further east to convey their day Eliza Smith, from Eldersfield, Worcestershire, glad news to Edward Martin and the fifth handcart England, aged 40 years died; also John Kockles, company who left Florence about two weeks after from Norwich, Norfolk, England, died; also, Dan- us, and who it was feared were even worse off iel Osborn, from Norwich, Norfolk, England died; than we were. As they went from our view, many also Rasmus Hansen, from Falster, Denmark, died. a hearty "God bless you" followed them. Travelled thro' the day about 16 miles; camped at We pursued our journey with renewed dark on the banks of the Sweetwater. The teams hope and after untold toil and fatigue, doubling mistook the road & did not get into camp till about teams frequently, going back to fetch up the strag- 10 p.m. gling carts, and encouraging those who had dropped by the way to a little more exertion in Levi Savage Journal view of our soon-to-be improved condition, we Fifth Crossing of the Sweet Water. At finally, late at night, got all to camp - the wind half past ten o'clock we started. In about one hour howling frightfully and the snow eddying around we encountered a very severely cold and blustering us in fitful gusts. But we had found a good camp snowstorm. It lasted for one hour. The poorly among the willows, and after warming and par- clad women and children suffered much. At tially drying ourselves before good fires, we ate twelve o'clock we met Brother Wheelock and our scanty fare, paid our usual devotions to the company who have come to our relief. He re- Deity and retired to rest with hopes of coming aid. ported forty wagon loads of flour one day in ad- The morning before the storm, or rather,

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the morning of the day on which it came, we is- morning we issued the last bread, or breadstuffs, in sued the last ration of flour. On this fatal morning, our possession. It continued snowing severely therefore, we had none to issue. We had, however, during the day. We expected Brother Willey a barrel or two of hard bread which Captain Willie would return this evening, but he has not come. had procured at Fort Laramie in view of our desti- tution. This was equally and fairly divided among John Chislett's Narrative all the company. Two of our poor broken-down Being surrounded by snow a foot deep, cattle were killed and their carcasses issued for out of provisions, many of our people sick, and our beef. With this we were informed that we would cattle dying, it was decided that we should remain have to subsist until the coming supplies reached in our present camp until the supply train reached us. All that now remained in our commissary were us. It was also resolved in council that Captain a few pounds each of sugar and dried apples, about Willie with one man should go in search of the a quarter of a sack of rice and a small quantity supply train and apprise its lead of our condition, (possibly 20 or 25 lbs.) of hard bread. The brother and hasten him to our help. When this was done who had been our commissary all the way from we settl~ down and made our camp as comfort- Liverpool had not latterly acted in a way to merit able as we could. As Captain Willie and his com- the confidence of the company; but it is hard to panion left for the West, many a heart was lifted in handle the provisions and suffer hunger at the prayer for their success and speedy return. They same time, so I will not write a word of condem- were absent three days - three days which I shall nation. These few scanty supplies were on this never forget. The scanty allowance of hard bread memorable morning turned over to me by Captain and poor beef, distributed as described, was mostly Willie, with strict injunctions to distribute them consumed the first day by the hungry, ravenous, only to the sick and to mothers for their hungry famished souls. children, and even to them in as sparing a manner We killed more cattle and issued the meat; as possible. It was an unenviable place to occupy, but, eating it without bread, did not satisfy hunger, a hard duty to perform; but I acted to the best of and to those who were suffering from dysentery it my ability, using all the discretion I could. did more harm than good. This terrible disease increased rapidly amongst us during these three MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 1856 days, and several died from exhaustion. Before we renewed our journey the camp became so offen- Willie Company Journal sive and filthy that words would fail to describe its This morning there was about 4 inches of condition, and even common decency forbids the snow on the ground. Anna F. Tait from Glasgow, attempt. Suffice it to say that all the disgusting Scotland, aged 31 years died; Capt. Willie & Jo- scenes which the reader might imagine would cer- seph Elder left camp to meet the "Relief Train" tainly not equal the terrible reality. It was enough that had been sent from the Valley. Our provisions to make the heavens weep. The recollection of it were all issued last night & that was hard bread. unmans me even now - those three days! During that time I visited the sick, the widows whose hus- Levi Savage Journal bands died in serving them, and the aged who Sixth Crossing of the Sweet Water. This could not help themselves, to know for myself morning when we arose, we found several inches where to dispense the few articles that had been of snow on the ground and is yet snowing. The placed in my charge for distribution. Such craving cattle and people are so much reduced with short hunger I never saw before, and may God in his food and hard work that except we get assistance, mercy spare me the sight again. we surely cannot move far in this snow. Brothers Willey and Elder started on horseback about ten 0' clock to search for the wagons that Wheelock reported a short distance in our advance. This

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 1856 fell upon them and deluged them with kisses. The brethren were so overcome that they could not for Willie Company Journal sometime utter a word, but in choking silenced John Linford from Graveley, Cambridge- repressed all demonstration of those emotions that shire, England, aged 49 years died; also Richard evidently mastered them. Soon, however, feeling Hardwick, from Moorhen's Cross, Herfordshire, was somewhat abated, and such a shaking of England, aged 63 years; also Mary Ann Perkins, hands, such words of welcome, and such invoca- from Norwich, Norfolk, England, aged 62 years tion of God's blessing have seldom been wit- died; also Sophia Larsen from Lolland, Denmark, nessed. I was installed as regular commissary to aged 11 years. Many children were crying for the camp. The brethren turned over to me flour, bread and the camp generally were destitute of potatoes, onions, and a limited supply of warm food. A beef heifer was killed for the camp. Capt. clothing for both sexes, besides quilts, blankets, Willie, Capt. Grant, W. H. Kimball & others with buffalo-robes, woollen socks, etc. I first distrib- 14 wagons with horse & mule teams arrived in uted the necessary provisions, and after supper camp with flour, onions, & some clothing for the divided the clothing, bedding, etc., where it was camp, this made the Saints feel well. most needed. That evening, for the first time in quite a period, the songs of Zion were to be heard Levi Savage Journal in the camp, and peals of laughter issued from the Cross of the Sweet Water. This morning little knots of people as they chatted around the about eleven o'clock Brother Willey returned, with fires. The change seemed almost miraculous, so Brother George Grant, having a good supply 0, sudden was it from grave to gay, from sorrow to teams, wagons and provisions, and some clothing. gladness, from mourning to rejoicing. With the A desirable relief. Here we buried several persons. cravings of hunger satisfied, and with hearts filled with gratitude to God and our good brethren, we John Chislett's Narrative all united in prayer, and then retired to rest. The storm which we encountered, our Among the brethren who came to our suc- brethren from the Valley also met, and not know- cor were elders W.H. Kimball' and G. D. Grant. ing that we were utterly destitute, they encamped They had remained but a few days in the Valley to await fine weather. But when Captain Willie before starting back to meet us. May God ever found them and explained our real condition, they bless them for their generous, unselfish kindness at once hitched up their teams and made all speed and their manly fortitude! They felt that they had, to come to our rescue. On the evening of the third in a great measure, contributed to our sad position; day after Captain Willie's departure, just as the but how nobly, how faithfully, how bravely they sun was sinking beautifully behind the distant worked to bring us safely to the Valley - to the hills, on an eminence immediately west of our Zion of our hopes! camp several covered wagons, each drawn by four horses, were seen coming towards us. The news WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 1856 ran through the camp like wildfire, and all who were able to leave their beds turned out enmasse to Willie Company Journal see them. A few minutes brought them suffi- Camp rolled out. W. H. Kimball & others ciently near to reveal our faithful captain slightly and 6 wagons went on to the Valley with us. G. D. in advance of the train. Shouts of joy rent the air; Grant & others went on towards "Independence strong men wept till tears ran freely down their Rock" to meet Martin's Handcart Company. Trav- furrowed and sun-burnt cheeks, and little children elled 11 miles & camped on the Sweetwater. partook of the joy which some of them hardly un- Roads good considering the snow on the ground. derstood, and fairly danced around with gladness. Eliza Philpot from Southampton, Hampshire, Restraint was set aside in the general rejoicing, England, died, aged 36; also John James from and as the brethren entered our camp the sisters Whitourne, Herefordshire, England, aged 61.

9 DAILY ACCOUNT Willie Handcart Company

Levi Savage Journal help. I met Brother Willey coming to look for us. We prepared for starting and commenced He turned for the camp, as he could do no good moving about twelve 0' clock. Brother Grant took alone. I passed several on the road and arrived in a good portion of the teams and continued his camp after about four miles of travel. I arrived in journey to meet Brother Martin's company. camp, but few tents were pitched and men, Brother William Kimble took charge of our com- women, and children sat shivering with cold pany. We travelled about ten miles and camped at around their small fires. Some time lapsed when the foot of what is called the Rock Ridge. I had two teams started to bring up the rear. Just before charge of the teams. Because of their reduced daylight they returned, bringing all with them, strength and heavy loads, a large number of sick some badly frozen, some dying and some dead. It and children were in the wagons. I did not arrive was certainly heartrendering to hear children cry- in camp until late at night. The wind blew bleak ing for mothers and mothers crying for children. and cold and firewood very scarce. The Saints By the time I got them as comfortably situated as were obliged to spread their light bedding on the circumstances would admit (which was not very snow, and in this cold state endeavored to obtain a comfortable), day was dawning. I had not shut little rest. Sister Philpot died about ten o'clock my eyes for sleep, nor lain down. I was nearly p.m., leaving two fatherless girls. Several others exhausted with fatigue and want of rest. died during the night. John Chislett's Narrative THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23, 1856 ,A few days of bright freezing weather were succeeded by another snow storm. The day Willie Company Journal we crossed the Rocky Ridge it was snowing a little Ascended a steep hill, travelled about 16 - the wind hard from the north-west - and blowing miles & camped on the Sweetwater. Crossed sev- so keenly that it almost pierced us through. We eral creeks on the road, several men were near fro- had to wrap ourselves closely in blankets, quilts, or zen thro the day; two teams loaded with sick did whatever else we could get, to keep from freezing. not get to camp till very late. James Gibbs from Captain Willie still attended to the details of the Leith, East Lothian, Scotland, aged 67 died; also company's travelling, and this day he appointed Chesterton J. Gilman from Yarmouth, Suffolk me to bring up the rear. My duty was to stay be- England, aged 66 years died. hind everything and that nobody was left along the road. I had to bury a man who had died in my Levi Savage Journal hundred, and I finished doing so after the company We buried our dead, got up our teams and had started. In about half an hour, I set out on about nine o'clock a.m. commenced ascending the foot alone to do my duty as rear-guard to the camp. Rocky Ridge. This was a severe day. The wind The ascent of the ridge commenced soon after blew hard and cold. The ascent was some five leaving camp, and I had not gone far up it before I miles long and some places steep and covered with overtook a cart that the folks could not pull deep snow. We became weary, set down to rest, through the snow, here about knee-deep. I helped and some became chilled and commenced to them along, and we soon overtook another. By all freeze. Brothers Atwood, Woodard and myself hands getting to one cart we could travel; so we remained with the teams. They being perfectly moved one of the carts a few rods, and then went loaded down with the sick and children, so thickly back and brought up the other. After moving in stacked I was fearful some would smother. About this way for a while, we overtook other carts at ten or eleven o'clock in the night we came to a different points of the hill, until we had six carts, creek [Strawberry Creek] that we did not like to not one of which could be moved by the parties attempt to cross without help, it being full of ice owning it. I put our collective strength to three and freezing cold. Leaving Brothers Atwood and carts at a time, took them a short distance, and then Woodard with the teams, I started to the camp for brought up the other three. Thus by travelling

10 DAILY ACCOUNT Willie Handcart Company over the hill three times - twice forward and once should they cross we could not leave the one in the back - I succeeded after hours of toil in bringing creek and go on. There was no wood in the vicin- my little company to the summit. The six carts ity, so we could make no fire, and were uncertain were then trotted on gaily down hill, the intense what to do. We did not know the distance to the cold stirring us to action. One or two parties who camp, but supposed it to be 3 or 4 miles. After were with these carts gave up entirely, and but for consulting about it, we resolved that some one the fact that we overtook one of our ox-teams that should go on foot to the camp to inform the cap- had been detained on the road, they must have tain of our situation. I was selected to perform the perished on that Rocky Ridge. One old man, duty, and I set out with all speed. In crossing the named James (a farm-laborer from Gloucester- creek I slipped through the ice and got my feet shire), who had a large family, and who had wet, my boots being nearly worn out. I had not worked very hard all the way, I found sitting by gone far when I saw some one sitting by the road- the roadside unable to pull his cart any farther, I side. I stopped to see who it was, and discovered could not get him into the wagon, as it was already the old m\m James and his little boy. The poor old overcrowded. He had a shotgun which he had man was quite worn out. brought from England, and which had been a great I got him to his feet and had him lean on blessing to him and his family, for he was a good me, and he walked a little distance, not very far. I shot, and often had a mess of sage hens or rabbits partly dragged, partly carried him a short distance for his family. I took the gun from the cart, put a farther, but he was quite helpless, and my strength small bundle on the end of it, placed it on his failed me. Being obliged to leave him to go for- shoulder, and started him out with his little boy, ward on my own errand, I put down a quilt I had twelve years old. His wife and two daughters wrapped around me, rolled him in it, and told the older than the boy took the cart along fmely after little boy to walk up and down by his father, and reaching the summit. on no account to sit down, or he would be frozen We travelled along with the ox-team and to death. I told him to watch for teams that would overtook others, all so laden with the sick and come back, and to hail them when they came. This helpless that they moved very slowly. The oxen done I again set out for the camp, running nearly had almost given out. Some of our folks with carts all the way and frequently falling down, for there went ahead of the teams, for where the roads were were many obstructions and holes in the road. My good they could out travel oxen; but we constantly boots were frozen stiff, so that I had not the free overtook some stragglers, some with carts, some use of my feet, and it was only by rapid motion without, who had been unable to keep pace with that I kept them from being badly frozen. As it the body of the company. We struggled along in was, both were nipped. this weary way until after dark, and by this time After some time I came in sight of the our "rear" numbered 3 wagons, 8 handcarts, and camp fires, which encouraged me. As I neared the nearly 40 persons. With the wagons were Mellen camp I frequently overtook stragglers on foot, all Atwood, Levi Savage, and William Woodward, pressing forward slowly. I stopped to speak to each captains of hundreds, faithful men who had one, cautioning them all against resting, as they worked hard all the way. would surely freeze to death. Finally, about 11 We finally came to a stream of water p.m., I reached the camp almost exhausted. I had [Strawberry Creek] which was frozen over. We exerted myself very much during the day in could not see where the company had crossed. If bringing the rear carts up the ridge and had not at the point where we struck the creek, then it had eaten anything since breakfast. I reported to Cap- frozen over since we passed it. We started one tains Willie and Kimball the situation of the folks team to cross, but the oxen broke through the ice behind. They immediately got up some horses, and would not go over. No amount of shouting and the boys from the Valley started back about and whipping could induce them to stir an inch. midnight to help the ox teams in. The night was We were afraid to try the other teams, for even very severe and many of the emigrants were fro-

11 DAILY ACCOUNT Willie Handcart Company zen. It was 5 a.m. before the last team reached the his life. When morning came, Father's body, along camp. with others who had died during the night, were I told my companions about the old man buried in a deep hole. Brush was thrown in and James and his little boy. They found the little fel- then dirt. A fire was built over the grave to kill the low keeping faithful watch over his father, who lay scent to keep the wolves from digging up the re- sleeping in my quilt just as I left him. They lifted mains. him into a wagon, still alive, but in a sort of stupor. I can see my Mother's face as she sat He died before morning. His last words were an looking at the partly conscious group. Her eyes enquiry as to the safety of his shotgun. looked so dead that I was afraid. he didn't sit long, however, for my Mother was never one to Laleta Dickson's History of William James cry. When it was time to move out, Mother had her The day we reached the last crossing of family ready to go. She put her invalid son in the the Sweetwater river I will never forget as long as I cart with her baby and we joined the train. Our live. It was a bitter cold morning in October as we Mother was a strong women, and she would see us broke camp. As usual there were dead to be bur- through anything. ied before we could go on. Father and Rueben were on the burial detail. Mother, who was helping FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 1856 to pull the heaviest cart, had stayed behind until Rock Creek they could finish their sad work. After a short service we, with my cart ran ahead to catch the rest Willie Company Journal of the company, and Mother and Rueben started to Reddin N. Allred & others with 6 wagons follow. Father collapsed and fell in the snow. He came to camp this morning to assist the Handcart tried two or three times to get up with Mother's Company on our journey to the Valley. It was help, then finally he asked her to go on and when concluded to stay in camp today & bury the dead he felt rested, he would come on later. Mother as there were 13 persons to inter. William James, knew in her heart that he had given out, but per- from Pershore, Worcestershire, England, aged 46 haps, she said, in a few minutes with some rest he died; Elizabeth Bailey, from Leigh, Worcester- could come on. She took the cart and hurried to shire, England, aged 52 died; James Kirkwood follow us. from Glasgow, Scotland, aged 11 died; Samuel She found us on the riverbank, we were Gadd, from Orwell, Cambridgeshire, England, too frightened and tired to cross alone. We had aged 10 died; Lars Wendin, from Copenhagen, forded this river before many times but it never Denmark, aged 60 died; Anne Olsen, from See- seemed so far across. It was about 40 feet, I guess, land, Denmark, aged 46 died; Ella Nilson, from to the other bank. Mother soon had us on our way. Jutland, Denmark aged 22 years died; Jens Nilson, The water was icy and soon our clothing was fro- from Lolland, Denmark, aged 6 years died; Bodil zen to our bodies. Our feet were frozen numb. Mortinsen from Lolland, Denmark, aged 9 years Cold and miserable we reached the other bank, put died; Nils Anderson from Seeland, Denmark, aged on dry clothing and joined the rest of the company. 41 years died; Ole Madsen from Seeland, Den- When we stopped for the night, we made inquiries mark, aged 41 years died; Many of the Saints have about our people, but nothing had been heard of their feet & hands frozen from the severity of the them. Since there were some who had been a few weather. hours behind us, we felt they would come with the next group. All night we waited for word. Toward Levi Savage Journal morning some of the Captains who had gone out to This morning found us with thirteen gather up the stragglers came into camp bearing corpses for burial. These were all put into one the dead body of my Father and the badly frozen grave. Some had actually frozen to death. We body of my brother Rueben. His injuries were so were obliged to remain in camp, move the tents bad that he would suffer from them for the rest of and people behind the willows to shelter them

12 DAIL Y ACCOUNT Willie Handcart Company from the severe wind which blew enough to pierce these immigrants encountered extreme winter us through. Several of our cattle died here. weather and heavy snows. During one of these severe storms, 13 died in one night and were bur- John Chislett's Narrative ied in one grave. After the bodies were placed in There were so many dead and dying that it the grave their heads around the outside with their was decided to lie by for the day. In the forenoon I feet to the center, James lifted his small daughter was appointed to go round the camp and collect Mary up so she could see them. At the age of 88 the dead. I took with me two young men to assist she could still visualize the scene. ~t Rock Creek me in the sad task, and we collected together, of all within 300 miles of Salt Lake they had two very ages and both sexes, thirteen corpses, all stiffly sick children and no provisions of any kind. James frozen. We had a large square hole dug in which went to gather some sage brush to make a fire and we buried these thirteen people, 3 or 4 abreast and while doing so, he found some pieces of raw hide. 3 deep. When they did not fit in, we put one or two He gathered them up and took them to camp. They crosswise at the head or feet of the others. We cleaned, scraped and cooked them and gave them covered them with willows and then with the to the little ones who ate them with a relish. earth. When we buried these thirteen people some of their relatives refused to attend the services. James and Eliza Hurren They manifested an utter indifference about it. The All the able-bodied men dug one large numbness and cold in their physical natures seem grave, but not too deep. My brother-in-law James to have reached the soul, and to have crushed out Hurren held out his eight-year old girl Mary to see natural feeling and affection. Had I not myself her little playmate lying among the dead. They witnessed it, I could not have believed that suffer- were laid in the clothes they wore, in a circle with ing would have produced such terrible results. But feet to the center and heads out. We covered them so it was. Two others died during the day, and we with willows and then earth and slid rocks down buried them in one grave, making fifteen in all the hill to keep the wolves from disturbing them. buried on that camp ground. Two of the men who helped dig the grave died and were buried in another nearby. David Reeder Family History By this time there was very little food left. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25, 1856 Winter started early with blinding snow storms. By October 24 they crossed the Windriver Pass and Willie Company Journal were camped at Rock Creek in the shelter of a hill. Rolled from camp in the morning. Thomas During the night of severe cold, 13 of the company Gurdlestone from Great Melton, Norwich, aged 62 perished. The men were weak but all helped to dig years died. William Groves, from Cranmoor, a shallow grave, round in shape, and the bodies Somersetshire, England, aged 22 years died; were placed in it with feet to the center. They Crossed the Sweetwater for the last time. Travelled were laid away in the clothing they wore. Mary about 15 miles & camped on the Sweetwater. told of her father holding her out to see her play- Some brethren were stationed at this post on the mate lying among the dead as they were placed in river with supplies of flour & onions. John Wal- the grave. Slender willow boughs were placed over ters from Bristol, Somerset, England, aged _ them, then dirt, and finally thin shale was taken died; William Smith from Eldersfield, Worcester- from the hill to cover the spot to keep the wolves shire, England, aged 48 years died. from disturbing the remains. Two men who helped dig the large grave perished that night and Levi Savage Journal (Last entry in his journal for were placed in another grave nearby the side of the this time period) other. We commenced our march again. From Death had occurred frequently during this I have not been able to keep a daily journal, these stages of the journey. On the Sweetwater, but nothing of much note transpired, except the

13 DAILY ACCOUNT Willie Handcart Company people died daily. Theophilus Cox died on the THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30, 1856 morning of the 7th of November, on the Webber, was carried to Cottonwood Grove, East Canyon Willie Company Journal Creek, and there buried. We overtook Brother Rolled from Big Sandy to Green River, 11 Smoot's company in emigration on the 9th. That miles, forded the river and ~amped on its banks. afternoon we arrived in Great Salt Lake City and Many persons were sick & it was late before they deposited the people among the Saints, where they were in camp. Bros. Atwood, Woodward & were made comfortable. Christiansen staid behind the main body of the camp to urge on the sick & see that none were left SUNDAY, OCTOBER 26, 1856 behind. Mary Gurdlestone, from Great Melton, Norfolk, England, aged 59 years died in the Willie Company Journal morning. Joseph Oborn from Bath, Somersetshire, Morning fine & pleasant. Samuel Wit England, aged 43 years died in the evening. A from Bristol, Somerset, England, aged _ years large fire was kindled in the evening, a meeting died; Mary Roberts of Eldersfield, Worcestershire, was held & several of the Brethren addressed the England, aged 44 years died. The camp rolled on, audience. crossed the "South Pass" & Pacific Creek; trav- elled down Pacific Creek & camped after travel- FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31,1856 ling about 14 miles. Good place to camp for sagewood. Willie Company Journal Left Green River, met with wagons from MONDAY, OCTOBER 27, 1856 Fort Supply, & the Valley to assist us on our jour- ney; 7 wagons were from the former place & 3 Willie Company Journal from the latter. Crossed Hams Fork & camped on Rolled out of camp, roads good, crossed its banks; travelled 18 miles. Bro. Savage with the Dry Sandy Creek, passed the Oregon Road, ox & cow teams did not get to camp this evening. crossed Little Sandy & camped on its banks. Trav- elled about 18 miles. The health of the camp im- SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1856 proves slowly. Willie Company Journal TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 1856 Rolled out of camp, met several teams to assist our company on to the Valley. Drove 15 Willie Company Journal miles and camped. Daniel Osborn, from Norwich, Travelled about 8 miles, crossed Big Norfolk, England, aged 35 years died in the even- Sandy Creek, travelled down its banks about 3 ing. A snow storm came on after we were camped miles & camped. Weather fine. Saints improving but did not last long. in health. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1856 WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29, 1856 Willie Company Journal Willie Company Journal Camp rolled out. Ephraim Hanks passed Anders Jensen, from Copenhagen, Den- our camp this morning, bringing news from the mark, aged 49 years died this morning. Rolled Valley of many teams being on the road, & that he from camp & travelled about 15 miles. Camped was going on to the rear companies to meet them. on Big Sandy after crossing it. Kersten Knutesen, Bros. Willie, Woodward, & Christiansen staid be- from Seeland, Denmark, aged _ years died in the hind to bring up the sick. This morning we had evening. not teams enough to haul the feeble that were left behind. After a short time several teams came on

14 DAILY ACCOUNT Willie Handcart Company from the Valley & picked up the sick. The breth- companies. A meeting was held in the evening, ren that staid behind were late into camp. The the brethren from the Valley attended. It was co'n- company camped about half a mile west of Fort sidered advisable to send on an express to the Bridger, travelled about 15 miles. James Cole of Valley & report the condition of things in the Fort Supply married Lucy Ward of the 4th Hand- mountains in regard to the companies on the cart Company at Fort Bridger in the evening. plains. W. H. Kimball said he would go as the Brother Willie's feet were in such a bad condition express & he appointed Bro. Gould captain of the from frost that he was unable to walk to the Camp; horse-teams & Bro. Wm. Hyde, captain of the ox- a wagon was sent for him. Peter Madsen, from teams; travelled about 12 miles. Night cold. Jutland, Denmark, aged 49 years died in the eve- ning. TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1856

David Reeder Family History Willie Company Journal Cousin Mary Hurren, eight years of age, W. H. Kimball & Bro. Thomas went on to remembered years later, his coming on horseback the Valley this morning. Camp rolled on to Bear to their camp and when he dismounted, took down River, forded the stream and camped on its banks. the robe and handed out the meat. They were all Bro. Blair with 3 ox wagons was camped on the in tears and gave thanks for sending an angel of opposite bank of the river. Met several teams mercy to refreshen and save the lives of the starv- during the day going to relieve the rear companies. ing Saints. Potatoes, onions & clothing was distributed among Brother Hanks went on east and came the different Hundreds in the evening. Franklin B. upon several Buffalo feeding in a meadow at "Ice Wooley came on from A. O. Smoot's train in- Springs bench," now called "Sulphur Slough." He forming the company that President B. Young had killed a cow and calf and dressed them and loaded sent word that some freight still lying at "Fort his horses. One night he met the Martin Co. (Nov. Bridger" was to be brought in this season & that 10th). He said they were in the saddest circum- some teams and men of our company were needed stances he ever hoped to see. He travelled with to go on to "Bridger". Several teams & men were them and each day he found game to help feed selected for the trip. them on their way to Utah. A man with less courage could not have WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5,1856 been a savior to so many people. He knew how to harden and temper iron. He also knew how to Willie Company Journal finish a savage Grizzly Bear in the timber. Who Rolled on in the morning & crossed Yel- shall doubt the value of the tempering process in low Creek, ascended a steep hill & then go down the great service he rendered in his pioneer experi- Echo Kanyon & camped; travelled about 23 miles ence? & camped. Peter Madsen, from Copenhagen, Denmark, aged 66 years died during the day; Su- MONDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1856 sannah Osborn from Norwich, Norfolk, England, aged 33 years died this day. A snow storm came Willie Company Journal on this evening. The people are much exposed to Several wagons came into our camp from cold from lying on the cold ground. the Valley to assist us on our journey this morning. We rolled out of camp about 11 a.m., passed THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1856 Gilbert & Gerrish's merchant train going on slowly to the Valley. Crossed the "Basin Rim," Willie Company Journal forded Muddy Creek & camped on its banks. Archibald McPhiel, from Greenock, Ar- Some 10 (ten) ox teams with wagons were camped gyleshire, Scotland, died about 2 a.m., aged 40 alongside us & were on their way to meet the rear years. Much snow on the ground this morning &

15 DAIL Y ACCOUNT Willie Handcart Company still more falling. Go down Echo Kanyon, roads passed Captain Smoot's train in the Kanyon. The very bad at the crossing of streams; forded Weber wagons formed in order on the bench at the mouth River & camped on its banks. It snowed most of of the Kanyon & rolled into the city. Captain the day. The camping ground presented a most Smoot's train went ahead. F. D. Richards, S. W. dismal appearance, as we rolled on to it there be- Richards & many others came to meet us on the ing much snow on the ground & it being late at Bench & went ahead of us into the City. As soon night. Rasmus P. Hansen, from Lan Denmark, as the company arrived in the City of Great Salt aged 16 years, died this evening. Lake, the Bishops of the different wards took every person that was not provided for a home & FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1856 put them into comfortable quarters. Hundreds of persons were round the wagons on our way thro' Willie Company Journal the city welcoming the company safely home. The camp rolled on, crossed a steep hill & came into East Kanyon; crossed East Kanyon Appendix Creek several times & camped in a cottonwood grove; good place to camp for wood. Maria S. Apparently, William Woodward added Jorgen from Lango, Denmark, aged 8 years died; this section to the Company Journal after they Theophilus Cox, from Bristol, Somersetshire, reached Salt Lake City. England, aged 25 years died; William Empey from Eaton Bray, Bedfordshire, England, aged 9 years Willie Company Journal died. During the day we passed some teams going After the loss of many of our oxen, west of to relieve the rear companies. Fort Kearney, we hunted for them some four days & then sent two young men back on the road to- SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8,1856 wards Missouri River to see if they could find them. As our oxen were gone & we still had some Willie Company Journal cows, we yoked many of them up, lighted the Travelled up the Kanyon about 3 miles, & loads that were in the wagons by putting some then ascended the Big Mountain, which was diffi- 6000 Ibs. of flour on our handcarts & rolled on cult for teams to gain the top; go down the moun- towards the Valley, Bro. F. D. Richards & com- tain & camp about a mile from the Little pany, & the two young men we sent to hunt our Mountain. Bro. Blair left us early this morning for cattle overtook us at North Bluff Fork of the Platte, the Valley. We travelled about 13 miles during the but brought us no information of our cattle. day. W. H. Kimball came to camp this evening; After we left Fort Laramie we reduced the also, a load of provisions for the camp. W. H. rations of the camp with regard to flour. Instead Of Kimball & W. Woodward took an account of per- men & women & children over 6 years of age re- sons who had made engagements where they were ceiving one pound of flour daily, in a public going to stay in the mountains. meeting, the camp agreed to submit to what the officers of the company considered for their pres- SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1856 ervation as our supplies were running out, & Capt. Arrived in Salt Late City Willie had the assurance from Bro. F. D. Richards that supplies should be on had at "Pacific Willie Company Journal Springs"; Our object in reducing the rations was to Early this morning. The people were busy make them hold out till we should arrive at the preparing to enter the Valley. Rhoda R. Oakey point mentioned. Captain Willie drew up a scale, from Eldersfield, Worcestershire, England, aged flour was issued accordingly - men were to have 11 years died this morning. The teams after some 14 ozs. per day, women 12 ozs. per day, children 9 difficulty ascended the Little Mountain & rolled ozs. per day, & infants 4 ozs. per day. This took down Emigration Kanyon. Several of the wagons place some few miles west of Laramie. The emi-

16 DAILY ACCOUNT Willie Handcart Company grants having to cross the North Fork of the Platte cleared from the ground that the tents might be set 3 times after we left Laramie, thro' cold water & & the people have a place to sleep. The provisions having again to reduce our rations of flour at Inde- were given out every night & often it was from 10 pendence Rock, men to receive 10 112 ozs., to 12 p.m. before all the camp could retire to rest. women 9 OZS., children 6 ozs., & infants 3 ozs. of Help, in the shape of wagons & provisions contin- flour daily, & having to cross the Sweetwater ued to reach us till we arrived in G.S.L. City. The River several times, also to sleep on the cold number of persons that died belonging to the ground with very little bedding, as only 17 Ibs. of handcart Company was 67 souls & one child be- luggage was allowed to each individual, many of longing to a wagon that joined our company above the people failed in strength & many of the aged Florence making the total of deaths 68 souls. died exhausted. The diarrhea took hold of many which greatly weakened our camp, our wagons were crowded with sick which broke down our teams & we had to refuse many who were worthy to ride. c.H. Wheelock & Joseph A Young with two other brethren met us a short distance west of "Ice Springs" & brought us the cheering intelli- gence that assistance was near at hand; that several wagons loaded with flour, onions, & clothing, in- cluding bedding was within a day's drive of us. That same night we issued all provisions to the camp, which was hard bread that was bought at Laramie (the last of our flour being issued the night before) left us about destitute of provisions for the camp. In the morning we found the ground covered with snow some 4 or 5 inches deep. Bro. Willie & Joseph Elder started in search of the "Relief Train" as we could not move our camp & they did not arrive back again till the following evening, when the "Relief Train" under the charge of George D. Grant came to our camp. Flour & onions were issued that same evening, clothing, bedding, &c. were given to the camp the next morning. Nine persons were buried at that camp- ing ground. Snow was on the ground & looked dismal. W. H. Kimball and others with 6 wagons went with us to the Valley. G. D. Grant & others went on their way to meet the rear handcart com- panies. Crossing the Rocky ridge was a severe & disastrous day to health. The weather was cold & it snowed & blowed some of the time making it bad for the sick who rode in the wagons & for those who pulled the handcarts. The next day we buried 13 souls near Willow Creek on the banks of the Sweetwater. From that time till we entered the Valley many died. They were the old, the infirm, & the debilitated. Oftentimes the snow had to be

17 DAILY ACCOUNT First Rescue Party

Note: all references are from Journal History un- express was carried by Cyrus H. Wheelock, Joseph less noted differently. A. Young, Steven Taylor, and Abel Garr.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7, 1856 WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 1856

Left G.S.L. City, going east, to meet the Traveled to Green River. Left some flour, emigrating companies. Camped tonight at the foot feed, etc. Camped tonight on Big Sandy at 8 of the Big Mountain. o'clock.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8, 1856 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16, 1856

Passed over the Big Mountain and camped At the Big Sandy we met Captain Smoot; in East Kanyon; had a light snowstorm. camped here tonight; let him have some flour, beef, and teams and 18 men. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9,1856 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17, 1856 Had good roads; camped in Echo Kanyon Started late; camped on Little Sandy. Feed FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10,1856 scarce; look like a storm.

Camped near a little grove at the head of Journal of Harvey H. Cluff Echo. When they crossed the Continental Divide at South Pass, a storm met them head-on. From SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11, 1856 that time on they encountered increasingly cold days and bitter nights. When an animal was killed Traveled down the "Old Pioneer Road;" to take to the immigrants, there was no need to salt camped tonight at a big hollow, good feed and the beef - it froze during quartering and stayed fro- water. zen. It now seemed necessary to leave more teams behind so that they might be able to assist when SUNDAY, OCTOBER 12, 1856 the immigrant parties came through. Therefore, Redick Allred was stationed on the Sweetwater Arrived at Fort Bridger. Left some of our River with flour, cattle, eleven guards, and four flour, feed, etc., at this place. Got some beef, etc. wagons. He would soon be joined from the west Camped here tonight. by three additional wagons and six men. Had any- one in the relief party foreseen the condition of MONDAY, OCTOBER 13, 1856 either of the handcart companies, they would have gathered all the stores and teams at Fort Bridger, Left Fort Bridger; camped tonight at Green River, and South Pass and traveled day and Black's Fork; met Brothers Smoot, Dan Jones and night until their animals broke. It was just as well others; some teams returning that had been back they did not know, for the relief effort would al- on the road and got tired of waiting. ready require more strength and supplies then they carried. Their pace would already stretch every TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14. 1856 man to the breaking point. Captain Burton had seen rigorous action in Tooele County while Brother Smoot returned with us to meet chasing Indian marauders; his company had been his son, camped tonight on Black's Fork. Again caught in summer with no water and in winter with sent on an express to meet the company and report no tents, bedding, or warm coats. But of the pres- back to us their situation, whereabouts, etc. The ent campaign he would later state, "This was the

50 DAILY ACCOUNT First Rescue Party hardest trip of my life." blast up hill I found it quite difficult to keep from freezing. I had only been back to camp a short SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18, 1856 time when two men road up from Willie's hand- cart company. The signboard had done the work Clear and fair, storm passed to the right of salvation. Had Captain Willie and his fellow and left us. Camped tonight on the head of traveller, from his company, continued on the road Sweetwater. Good feed and wood, looked like a they certainly would have perished as they would storm. have reached the Sweetwater where the storm first struck us. The handcart company was then 25 Journal of Harvey H. Cluff miles from our camp, and as they had travelled The relief party proceeded eastward as that distance without food for themselves or horses rapidly as possible and in due time passed over the and no bedding, they must have perished. I have South Pass, the backbone of the continent, being always regarded this act of mine as the means of the divide point of the waters flowing into the At- their salvation. And why not? An act of that im- lantic Ocean east and the Pacific Ocean west. Nine portance is worthy of record and hence I give a miles brought us down to the Sweetwater river place here. where we camped for the night. On arising in the following morning snow was several inches deep. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21,1856 During the two following days, the storm raged with increasing fury until it attained the capacity of Started early in the morning to meet Cap- a northern blizzard. tain Willie's company. Camped with them to- night; dealt out flour and clothing to them. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19, 1856 William Kimball and several others returned with him with teams, etc. Snow deep. Killed one beef. Started in the afternoon; camped below the mouth of Willow Creek. To- Journal of Harvey H. Cluff night commenced storming, very cold; good feed. Preparations were made and early in the morning of the following day we were on the road MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 1856 pushing our way for Captain Willie's camp. The depth of snow made travelling extremely difficult Stayed in the same place today. Brother and the whole day was spent before we reached Willie came to us near nightfall. camp. It was about sunset when we came in sight of the camp; which greatly resembled an Esqu- Journal of Harvey H. Cluff meax Village fully one mile away. The snow be- For protection of ourselves and animals, ing a foot deep and paths having been made from the company moved down the river to where the tent to tent gave the camp that appearance. As we willows were dense enough to make a good pro- reached an eminence overlooking the camp, which tection against the raging storm from the north. was located on a sagebrush plain near the river a The express team which had been dispatched mile away. When the people of the camp sighted ahead as rapidly as possible to reach and give en- us approaching, they set up such a shout as to echo couragement to the faltering emigrants, by letting through the hills. Arriving within the confines of them know that help was near at hand. Quietly this emigrant camp a most thrilling and touching resting in the seclusion of the willow copse, three scene was enacted, melting to tears the stoutest miles from the road I volunteered to take a sign hearts. Young maidens and feeble old ladies, board and place it at a conspicuous place at the threw off all the restraint and freely embraced their main road. This was designed to direct the express deliverers expressing in a flow of kisses, the party who were expected to return about this time. gratitude which their tongues failed to utter. This So they would not miss us. In facing the northern was certainly the most timely arrival of a relief

51 DAILY ACCOUNT First Rescue Party party recorded in history. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23, 1856

Dan Jones, Forty Years Among the Indians Stayed in the same camp. Snow deep. At the South Pass, we encountered a se- Could not travel. vere snowstorm. After crossing the divide we turned down into a sheltered place on the Sweet- FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 1856 water. While in camp and during the snow-storm two men were seen on horseback going west. They Clear and fair, some warmer; started on. were hailed. On reaching us they proved to be Camped tonight below "downstream" the Three Brothers Willie and J.B. Elder. They reported Crossings of Sweetwater. Snow still deep. Saw a their company in a starving condition at their camp large herd of buffalo three miles distant. then east of Rocky Ridge and said our express had gone on to meet the other companies still in the SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25, 1856 rear. We started immediately through the storm to reach Brother Willie's camp. On arriving we Wind blowing hard; camped tonight be- found them in a condition that would stir the feel- low the Wallahualtah rock. Snow going away ings of the hardest heart. They were in a poor slowly. Weather some warmer. place, the storm having caught them where fuel was scarce. They were out of provisions and really SUNDAY, OCTOBER 26, 1856 freezing and starving to death. The morning after our arrival nine were buried in one grave. We did Traveled 19 miles; camped near Devil's all we could to relieve them. The boys struck out Gate; found the express that had been sent on at on horseback and dragged up a lot of wood; provi- this place, waiting further orders. Had heard sions were distributed and all went to work to nothing from the company behind. cheer the sufferers. Soon there was an improve- ment in camp, but many poor, faithful people had MONDAY, OCTOBER 27, 1856 gone too far--had passed beyond the power to re- cruit. Our help came too late for some and many Remained in the same place. Feed tolera- died after our arrival. bly good. From this point sent another express to William Kimball with a few men and the bridge on Platte River, Joseph A. Young, Abel wagons turned back, taking the oversight of this Garr, Dan Jones, to find the company if possible, company to help them in. Capt. Grant left a wagon and report back their situation, whereabouts, etc. load of flour near the Pass with Redick Allred to guard it. There were several hundred people with Dan Jones, Forty Years Among The Indians Brother Willie. They had a few teams, but most of Having seen the sufferings of Brother them had become too weak to be of much service. Willie's company, we more fully realized the dan- When we left Salt Lake it was understood that ger the others were in. The Elders who had just other teams would follow until all the help needed returned from England having many dear friends would be on the road. with these companies, suffered great anxiety, some The greater portion of our company now of them feeling more or less the responsibility continued towards Devil's Gate, traveling through resting upon them for allowing these people to snow all the way. start so late in the season across the plains. At first we were at a loss what to do for we did not expect WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 1856 to have to go further than Devil' s Gate. We de- cided to make camp and send on an express to find Traveled 17 miles. Snow growing deeper where the people were and not to return until they and deeper all the way. Camped tonight under the were found. Wallahualtah rock. Joseph A. Young, Abe Garr and I were

52 DAILY ACCOUNT First Rescue Party selected. (Some histories give other names, but I before or since. The train was strung out for 3 or 4 was there myself and am not mistaken.) With miles. There were old men pulling and tugging picked saddle horses and a pack mule we started their carts, sometimes loaded with a sick wife or out. children - women pulling along sick husbands - The first night we camped, our horses little children six to eight years old struggling followed a band of buffaloes several miles; it was through the mud and snow. As night came on the near noon the next day when we returned with mud would freeze on their clothes and feet. There them. We determined to get even with them so were two of us and hundreds needing help. What rode at full gallop wherever the road would permit. could we do? We gathered on to some of the most After riding about twelve miles we saw a white helpless and helped as many as we could into man's shoe track in the road. Bro. Young called camp on Avenue hill. out, "Here they are." We put our animals to their This was a bitter, cold night and we had utmost speed and soon came in sight of the camp no fuel except very small sagebrush. Several died at Red Bluff. This was Brother Edward Martin's that night. handcart company and Ben Hodgett's wagon com- pany. There was still another wagon company THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30, 1856 down near the Platte crossing. Good weather; snow going away slowly; TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 1856 remained in the same camp. Express returned to- night at 7 o'clock and reported that the companies Remained in the same camp. Weather on the Platte River had been camped there several fine; snow going away. At night cloudy; snow days, not far apart. began to fall fast. After prayers ceased snowing. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31, 1856 WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29, 1856 Fine and clear; started this morning to In the same camp. Fine, warm morning; meet the company of handcarts; met them on continued through the day. Greasewood Creek [current day Horse Creek]; camped with them tonight; dealt out to them flour, Joseph A. Young's Report given in the Taberna- clothing, etc. cle On the 29th I returned from Capt. Hunt's Dan Jones, Forty YearsAmong The Indians to Capt. Martin's company. Capt. Martin had Next morning, Brother Young having started early in the morning, and when I overtook come up, we three started for our camp near them their cry was, "let us go to the Valley; let us Devil's Gate. All were rejoiced to get the news go to Zion." that we had found the emigrants. The following I camped with them that night in the snow, morning most of the company moved down, at a place called Rocky Avenue, near the (36 miles meeting the handcart company at Greasewood east of) Devil's Gate. The next day I journeyed on creek. Such assistance as we could give was ren- towards Capt. Grant's company, and on the 31st dered to all until they finally arrived at Devil's rode into their camp and found all well. Gate fort about the 1st of November. There were Next morning they moved on. Brother some twelve hundred in all, about one-half with Garr and I went back to where E. Martin's camp handcarts and the other half with teams. had been. They had rolled out and Captain Hodgett's wagon company were just starting. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1856 We continued on, overtaking the hand-cart company ascending a long, muddy hill. A condi- Started back for the Valley. Brothers tion of distress here met my eyes that I never saw Grant and Robert T. Burton went back (further

53 DAILY ACCOUNT First Rescue Party east) to meet Brother Hodgett's (wagon) company, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7,1856 four or five miles; about noon it commenced snowing. Snowed until late at night; camped near Remained very cold. Could not travel. Independence Rock. Stowing away goods, trying to save the people, stock, etc. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1856 SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8,1856 Camped tonight at Devil's Gate, snow deep, very cold. Wind did not blow so hard; some warmer this morning; hunting up the horses and cattle to MONDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1856 move on the morrow; camped at the same place.

Remained at same place. So cold that the SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1856 company could not move. Sent an express to G.S.L. City, Joseph A. Young, and Abel Garr, to Fine, warm morning. Handcart company report our situation and get counsel and help. and Captain Hodgett's company at 11 o'clock a.m. Captain Hunt's company not yet done caching Joseph A. Young's Report goods. The couriers again proved to be the tire- This evening had a meeting of the officers less Joseph A. Young and Abel Garr. Before rid- of the companies to appoint brethren to remain ing, Young put on three or four pairs of woollen with the goods, left here by Captains Hodgett's socks, a pair of moccasins, and a pair of buffalo and Hunt's companies. Dan Jones left in charge or hide over-shoes with the wool on, and then re- president, F.M. Alexander and Benjamin Hampton marked, There, if my feet freeze with those on, counselors, with 17 other brethren from the two they must stay frozen till I get to Salt Lake. companies. The brethren were instructed in their duties. TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1856 During our stay here, we had meetings every evening to counsel together and ask the Lord Cold continued very severe. People could to turn away the cold and storm, so that people not move; stowed away the goods of the trains in might live. the houses. Captain Martin's camp moved three miles encamped. Dan Jones, Forty Years Among The Indians Steve Taylor, AI Huntington and I were WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5,1856 together when the question, "Why doesn't Captain Grant leave all the goods here with some one to Weather continued cold; neither of the watch, and move on?" was asked. We agreed to companies moved. Captain Hunt's company ar- make this proposal to him. It was near the time rived here at 8 p.m. appointed for the meeting. As soon as we were together, Capt. Grant asked if anyone had thought THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1856 of a plan. We presented ours. Capt. Grant replied, "I have thought of this, but there are no provisions Colder than ever, Thermometer 11 degrees to leave and it would be asking too much of any- below zero. Stowed away the goods of Captain one to stay here and starve for the sake of these Hunt's train. None of the companies moved; so goods; besides, where is there a man who would cold the people could not travel. stay if called upon." I answered, "Any of us would." I had no idea I would be selected as it was acknowledged I was the best cook in camp and Captain Grant had often spoken as though he

54 DAILY ACCOUNT First Rescue Party could not spare me. eat but a few perishing cattle and what game we That a proper understanding may be had, I might chance to kill. The game was not very cer- will say that these goods were the luggage of a tain, as the severe storms had driven everything season's emigration that these two wagon trains away. The first move was to fix up the fort. Ac- had contracted to freight, and it was being taken cordingly Brother Alexander, being a practical through as well as the luggage of the people pres- man, was appointed to manage the business; ent. Leaving these goods meant to abandon all that Brother Hampton was to see about the cattle. many poor families had upon earth. So it was dif- ferent from common merchandise. MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1856 There was a move made at once to adopt this suggestion. Accordingly, next morning store Very fine morning. Captain Hunt's com- rooms in the fort were cleared and some two hun- pany fixing to start, getting up cattle, etc. The last dred wagons run in and unloaded. No one was wagon moved on about 2 o'clock. Captain Grant, allowed to keep out anything but a change of Cyrus H. Wheelock, Steven Taylor and Robert T. clothing, some bedding and light cooking utensils. Burton moved on at 3 o'clock; camped tonight Hauling provisions was not a weighty question. with Captain Hodgett. This unloading occupied three days. The handcart people were notified to abandon most of TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1856 their carts. Teams were hitched up and the sick and feeble loaded in with such light weight as was Started early in the morning; overtook the allowed. All became common property. handcart company at 10 o'clock. Brother Ephraim When everything was ready Brother Bur- K. Hanks was with them from the Valley, brought ton said to me, "Now Brother Jones we want you good news; camped tonight on Bitter Cottonwood. to pick two men from the valley to stay with you. We have notified Captains Hunt and Hodgett to Dan Jones, Forty Years Among The Indians detail seventeen men from their companies to stay I followed the train this day to their second with you. We will move on in the morning. Get encampment and the next day traveled with them. your company together and such provisions as you There was much suffering, deaths occurring often. can find in the hands of those who may have any- Eph Hanks arrived in camp from the valley and thing to spare. You know ours is about out. Will word that some of the teams that had reached you do it?" I said, Yes. "Well take your choice South Pass and should have met us here, had from our company. You are acquainted with the turned back towards home and tried to persuade boys and whoever you want will stay." I had a Redick Allred, who was left there with a load of great mind to tell him I wanted Captains Grant and flour, to go back with them. The men who did this Burton. might have felt justified; they said it was no use There was not money enough on earth to going further, that we had doubtless all perished. I have hired me to stay. I had left home for only a will not mention their names for it was always few days and was not prepared to remain so long looked upon by the company as cowardly in the away; but I remembered my assertion that any of extreme. If this had not occurred, it was the inten- us would stay if called upon. I could not back out, tion of Capt. Grant to have sent someone down to so I selected Thomas Alexander and Ben Hamp- us with a load of flour. As it was, by the time any ton. I am satisfied that two more faithful men to was received, the people were in a starving condi- stand under all hardships could not have been tion, and could not spare it. found. On taking stock of provisions, we found WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1856 about twenty day's rations. No salt or bread ex- cepting a few crackers. There was at least five Fine morning, warm for the season; sent months of winter before us and nothing much to an express to the South Pass. It returned at 5

55 DAILY ACCOUNT First Rescue Party o'clock this morning, and 4 teams with some flour. TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1856 Camped above Three Crossings. Cloudy, snowy in afternoon; met several Dan Jones, Forty Years Among The Indians teams, William Kimball, James Ferguson, J. Sim- From the 3rd camp, where I saw the last of mons, Hosea Stout, and others; camped tonight at the brethren, an express was sent on to catch the our station on Sweetwater. returning supplies and continue on to the Valley, giving word that the train was coming. I know WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 1856 nothing more of them except from reports. As I am writing mainly from my own observations, I Snowing in the morning, sent an express will simply state that after great suffering and to the city. Company moved on, all in wagons; 3 much assistance (hundreds turning out to help) to o'clock. Captain Grant and Robert T. Burton, after emigrants were finally landed in the Valley. seeing the ox trains, moved on after the company. Camped tonight on the Dry Sandy. THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 1856 THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1856 Very pleasant morning. Companies all moving on finally. Camped again on the Sweet This morning Brothers Grant and Kimball, Water, at the lower end of the 16 mile drive. [It and others started for the City. Robert T. Burton was 16 miles to the next crossing of the Sweetwa- was left in charge of the companies; camped at ter.] bend of Big Sandy.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14,1856 FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 1856

The weather very pleasant; all the compa- This morning looked like storm. In the nies moving on. Camped on the 16 mile drive, afternoon it moved a little. Met some teams with about four miles from Sweetwater. Good feed, not flour, and camped tonight on Green River. much wood. No deaths in the camp tonight. Cap- tain Hunt's company ahead, Captain Hodgett near. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1856

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1856 This morning fair, but cold; met more teams; sent some back to the ox-trains with flour, Weather continued fine and warm; trav- etc. Camped on Black's Fork. eled on 8 miles and camped on Sweetwater; not much wood, nor very good feed. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 1856

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1856 Fine day, some cloudy; snowed again at night. Camped at Fort Bridger. Met 10 teams from the Valley. Brother Call's company, on Rocky Ridge; camped in a MONDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1856 little Cottonwood grove; good wood and feed. This morning took in supplies for the MONDAY, NOVEMBER 17,1856 company from Brother Lewis Robison's. Started late. Camped on the Muddy, good wood and feed; Fine, warm day; camped on the branch of very cold. Sweetwater.

56 DAILY ACCOUNT First Rescue Party

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1856

This morning started another express to the City, Cyrus H. Wheelock, Bullock and others. Sent two other teams to the ox-trains. Camped on Bear River; plenty of wood.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1856

Cold, but clear. Camped tonight in the head of Echo Kanyon; met Brother Little and oth- ers from the City.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1856

This morning snowing a little; camped to- night on the Weber River. Had another express from the president.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 1856

Today the road was sideling; got all the wagons over safe. Camped in East Kanyon; met several of the brethren here.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29,1856

Passed over the Big Mountain, snowing fast. Stopped snowing after noon. Passed over Little Mountain; camped in the head of Emigration Kanyon; met supplies.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 1856

This morning started early; arrived in S.L. City a little before noon with all the hand cart company and several families from the ox-trains. Had in the trains 351 horses and mules, 104 wagons, and 32 oxen.

57 Captain James G. Willie's digest of the journey as found in JOURNAL HISTORY, Nov. 9,1856

On Thursday May 1, 1856 on the ship sented to them by myself and one signed by the "Thornton" Captain Collins received the Saints Captain, First Mate, and Doctor of behalf of them- (761 in number) in the Brammerley-Moore docks, selves and the ships company was presented to me Liverpool, England, and on the following day, for the Saints. Saturday President Franklin D. Richards, accom- On our arrival at Castle Gardens, New panied by the government inspector and doctor York we received a hearty welcome from President came on board, and the Saints answered to the John Taylor and Elder Felt. Several gentlemen of usual inspection and were all pronounced by those the press also paid us a visit and were very courte- officers to be in good health. President Richards ous toward us appearing desirous of obtaining in- appointed myself (James G. Willie) captain of the formation concerning all the company from its company with Elders Millen Atwood, Moses officers and subsequently several paragraphs ap- Clough and Jahan A. Ahmanson my counselors. peared in different New York newspapers in praise Afterward in a few appropriate remarks he ex- of the general appearance and demeanor of the horted the people to strict obedience on the pas- entire company. sage, as otherwise they could not expect, and On Tuesday, June 17 they started under would not have a prosperous journey. President the presidency of Elder Levi Savage for Dunkirk, a Richards then blessed them in the name of the distance of 460 miles, where they arrived on the Lord and by authority of the holy priesthood. I 19th, leaving Brother Atwood and myself behind to then (Captain Willie) made the usual appointments transact sundry items of business. We however for the promotion of cleanliness and good order, arrived at Dunkirk by express train on the same and on Sunday May 4, at 3 a.m. the company was day, and immediately embarked with the Saints on tugged out of the river by the pilot. Sea sickness the "Jersey City" for Toledo, (280 miles further) soon commenced, but through the blessings of the where we arrived on Saturday the 21 st in good Lord it was not frequent during the voyage which health and spirits. terminated at New York on the 14th of June 1856. We at once started per rail for Chicago, The spirit of the Lord prevailed. The which we reached on the following day. I should ship's captain yielded to the influence which sur- mention that the railway authorities at Toledo rounded him and was kind and affable to all, often manifested a very unkind spirit toward us, putting voluntarily giving from his own table for the com- us to every inconvenience in their power. The fort of the sick and infirm, and otherwise minis- conductor compelling us to land in the streets of tering to their wants with his own hands. He Chicago, but the superintendent there gave us the seemed to be a good man, and I felt all the time use of an empty warehouse for the night. The next and still feel to say, "God bless Captain Collins." day (June 23) most of the English Saints left per By his sanction, meetings (at which he was gener- rail at 3 p.m. and the rest at 11 p.m. for Rock Is- ally present) for preaching and bearing testimony land. On the train arriving at Pond Creek the next were held on the quarterdeck, and every liberty day it was ascertained that the railway bridge there which could in reason be expected was granted by had fallen down while a previous train was passing him. He often in polite terms complimented the over it. Several brethren including Erastus Snow Saints upon their cleanliness and upon their ready were in the train and although many of the passen- compliance with his requests from time to time, gers were seriously injured, they escaped unhurt. and he said he never wished for a better or more We slept in the cars, and on the 25th the remainder orderly lot of passengers. of our company came up. We had much difficulty They certainly deserved the captain's en- in obtaining provisions which up to this period had comium, for with scarcely an exception they did been pretty plentiful. The Railway Superintendent their utmost to carry out to the letter the instruc- here was very obliging and furnished us with a tions given. Previous to landing at New York a large comfortable warehouse to sleep in. testimonial expressive of the Saints appreciation of On the 26th of June we left Pond Creek, the captain's and of the doctor's kindness was pre- and after crossing the Mississippi in consequence

58 Captain James G. Willie's digest of the journey as found in JOURNAL HISTORY, Nov. 9,1856 of the fallen bridge, started per rail for Iowa City our wagons for young women, who as was alleged where we arrived on the same day, meeting with were tied down there with ropes. the most cordial reception from President Daniel On our arrival at Florence we were Spencer and the brethren and sisters in camp there. warmly greeted by Pres. James C. McGaw and We stayed at this point until Tuesday, (July 15) Geo. D. Grant, Wm. H. Kimball, and John Van th and during the interval had frequent opportunities Cotto We stayed there till August the 16 , and of meeting together to hear the word of life spo- during this interval were employed in repairing ken. The brethren were engaged in making yokes, handcarts and tents. We also received much useful handcarts, etc., and the sisters in making tents. For instruction from the Brethren. At Florence four the want of these latter articles immediately on our independent wagons joined our company and were th arrival we had several soaking rains which the subsequently (on the 18 ) at the Great Pappea or- Saints bore with becoming fortitude. We cele- ganized into it by Pres. McGaw, who then ap- brated the 4th of July with the American flag flying pointed Andrew Siler a Captain of such wagons and had a first rate time. Many strangers were pre- under my presidency. sent and seemed to take considerable interest in On August 19th we rolled out of camp our proceedings. about 6 a.m. and commenced our journey across On the 1th President Spencer appointed the plains in real earnest, traveling about 18 miles me as Captain over the Fourth Handcart company that day, including the crossing of the Elk Horn consisting of the passengers of the ship Thornton, river. I then appointed Bro. Niel Lars Christiansen with Elders Mellen Attwood, Levi Savage, Wil- interpreter and counselor to the Danish Saints. On liam Woodward, John Chislett, and John A. Ah- Thursday the 28th of August Brother Hadley of the manson respectively Captains of Hundreds. Warwickshore conference aged 66 was missed. On July 15th we started from Iowa City Immediately I sent out scouts in search of him with Camping Ground for old Winter Quarters now a lantern, but he was not found until early the fol- known as Florence and pursued our journey till the lowing morning, after being out exposed to a th 20 , when Adelaide A. Baker of the Portsmouth drenching rain during the night. He however soon branch of Southampton conference with her two recovered. children Ann and Sebina Bird of the Eaton Bray On Friday the 29th we came up with a branch of the Bedfordshire conference, and Harri- large camp of Omaha Indians who were very ett Smith of the Bristol branch, Southampton con- friendly and sold us some buffalo meat. The Chief ference left us for the leeks and onions. I wish to invited the officers of our camp to see him. We here mention an act of kindness performed by a accordingly went, and were hospitably entertained. gentleman, (Mr. Charles Good at Fort Desmoines.) These Indians informed us of a murder which had He presented me with 15 pairs of childrens boots been committed on the 25th by the Cheyennes on which I readily accepted as he seemed to be inter- two of Col. Babbit's men and a Mrs. Wilson and ested by a sincere desire to do good. On Monday her child. We subsequently passed by the scene of the 11th of August we arrived at Florence, having the murder and covered up the graves. previously on the 9th had two other deserters from On the morning of Thursday, (4th Sept.) our ranks, a sister Guirney and daughter, both of being 265 miles west of Florence we found that 30 the Wiltshire conference. of our oxen were missing. We stayed to search for On our way considerable opposition was them till the 6th and during our stay Col. Babitt shown towards us by the people from time to time, came up and reported that the Cheyennes had at- and threats of personal violence were sometimes tacked a small California train and killed a woman made use of, though never carried into effect, be- and that the U.S. Troops had killed 13 Cheyennes cause they could not find any just cause for com- and taken a number of horses. Captain Smoot and plaint. We were persecuted by a posse of men Bro. Porter Rockwell visited the Saints and com- with a search warrant from some justice of the forted us in our then present emergency. peace authorizing them to search the bottoms of On the 6th of September we started afresh

59 Captain James G. Willie's digest of the journey as found in JOURNAL HISTORY, Nov. 9,1856 with our broken teams. Joseph Elder and Andrew eral Indians who stated they belonged to the tribe Smith returned on the back track in search of the of the Arapahoes, and that the Siouxs and Cheyen- missing cattle. We traveled a short distance when nes had recently attacked a large Emigration train I found it necessary to yoke up some cows which and killed many. These Arapahoes were watching we had with us, and to make a transfer of baggage us during the whole of the night for what purpose and oxen from one wagon to another in order to is best known to themselves. On the night of the equalize the burden of our present position. The 17'h we had the first frost, which was a very severe brethren cheerfully responded to this call and one. On that day one of Bro. Cantwells daughters matters were soon arranged, so that we were on (Ellen) was bitten by a rattlesnake, but the wound our journey again. was dressed and no fatal effects followed. The While in camp on the morning of the 8th a snake which had ten rattles was afterwards killed. man who gave the name of Henry Bauichter came On the 18th Sister Stewart from Scotland was up and reported that two men named Thomas missing. A number of brethren accompanied me Margetts and James Howdy with the wife and in search for her and during our absence she re- child of the latter had been murdered by the Chey- turned to the camp after sleeping in the company ennes about 80 miles ahead of our camp. He said of wolves for the night. She was much exhausted that the murders were committed during his ab- for want of food. On Sunday the zs" we met a sence from Margetts and Howdy on a buffalo hunt. company of nearly 100 apostates on their way from These two men I ascertained afterward were apos- the Valley back to the states, and shortly after- tates returning from the valley to the states. wards a small company of U.S. Soldiers came up. On Friday the 12th President Franklin D. On September 30 we arrived at Fort Richards with three carriages and some wagons, Laramie, having necessarily expended consider- accompanied by a number of Brethren and by Bro. able time in the repair of handcarts up to that Elder and Smith who had met them while search- point. Here we obtained a small ration for the ing for the lost oxen, came up with our camp on company, and Captain Siler's four wagons staid to the north Bluff of the Platte river, amidst the hearty await the arrival of the next wagon train pursuant cheers of the whole company. In the evening he to President Richards counsel. While at the Fort gave us a stirring address with a view to build up some soldiers visited our camp and conducted and encourage the people, and his sentiments were themselves with propriety. Two of the Sisters seconded by a hearty amen from time to time. His thought proper to stay here. Lucinda Davenport, counselors Daniel Spencer and C. H. Wheelock, who immediately married an apostate just arrived also cheered the Saints with some seasonable re- from the valley and Christine Brown. marks. Several of the songs of zion were sung On the 1st of October we renewed our with first rate spirit and good effect by Elder N. C. journey. This day we met Brother Parley P. Pratt Gunbar, and the meeting separated late in the eve- with a number of missionaries under his presi- ning, much edified and with the good spirit of our dency. In consequence of our limited supply of God evidently burning in their bosoms. provisions I considered it necessary to slightly re- The next morning we had a similar meet- duce the amount of provisions and the daily ration ing, when the Saints had portrayed before them in of flour which was unanimously and willingly ac- vivid colors the realities of the present position. ceded to by the Saints. On Sunday the iz" of Oc- Pres. Richards and others spoke there as they were tober, Alfred Peacock, and George Edwick were moved upon by the Holy Ghost, and it was indeed added to the list of deserters, just before we arrived a time of refreshing with the presence of the spirit at the Upper Crossing of the Platte. On the same of the Lord. At the conclusion of the meeting day it was considered necessary to make a still eight cheers were given for these brethren who further reduction in the daily ration of flour and immediately afterwards crossed the Platte river, an accordingly it was fixed at 1O~ ounces for men, 9 example which we at once followed. ounces for women, 6 ounces for children, and 3 On Monday, September 15, we met sev- ounces for infants.

60 Captain James G. Willie's digest of the journey as found in JOURNAL HISTORY, Nov. 9,1856

This turned out to be a very salutary ar- Kimball returned to us with a load of provisions rangement, as it just enabled us to eke out our pro- which was timely succor to us. The next day No- visions until the very day when we received vember 9th a part of our train passed Captain material aid from the valley, which arrived (when Smoot's which however proceeded us into Great the little ones were crying for bread) on the 20th of Salt Lake City where we arrived on that day. October, in the shape of 14 wagons laden with Brother Franklin D. Richards and L. W. Richards flour, onions, and clothing. The last bit of bread- besides many others came to meet us on the Bench stuff (which constituted all the provisions we then and preceded us into the City. had) had been served out two nights previously. On our arrival there the Bishops of the We all felt rejoiced at our timely delivery and at- different wards took every person who was not tributed it entirely to the hand of God which had provided with a home to comfortable quarters. been over us during the whole of our journey. Some had their hands and feet badly frozen; but On Wednesday the 22nd Bro Wm H. Kim- everything which could be done to alleviate their ball with 6 wagons went on with us towards Great sufferings was done, and no want was left unad- Salt Lake City, and Bro. Geo. D. Grant with the ministered to. Hundreds of citizens flocked remainder started to meet the companies in our around the wagons on our way through the City, rear. Two days previous to this we had encoun- cordially welcoming their Brethren and Sisters to tered the first snow storm and on Friday the 24th their new home in the mountains. met Bro. Reddick Allred and others with 6 wagons I feel to conclude by saying that on the also on their way to help the rear companies and whole the Saints bore the heavy trials of the jour- on the following day being 15 miles west of the ney with a becoming and praiseworthy fortitude. I last crossing of the Sweetwater came up with some may add too, that in consequence of their having to Brethren who were waiting there with supplies of cross the North Fork of the Platte and Sweetwater flour and onions. On Friday the 31 st we met 7 several times through the cold water and to sleep wagons from Fort Supply and 3 wagons from on the snow, (each person having only 17 pounds Great Salt Lake City, and on the 1st of November of luggage including bedding) and through other we met further help from the valley. On the next privations necessarily incident to the journey at so day Bro. Ephraim Hanks passed us and reported late a period of the season many of the aged and plenty of teams ahead. On this day we passed Fort infirmed failed in strength and died. The diarrhea Bridger, and on the next met fresh supplies for the also took firm hold on many. Our wagons were rear companies, and overtook Gilbert Gerrish's crowded with the sick, which broke down our Train. On Monday the 3rd it was deemed prudent teams and thus we often were obliged to refuse the to send an express to the First Presidency present- admission of many who were really worthy to ride. ing the state of things generally on the plains. For In crossing the Rocky Ridge we had to this purpose Bro. Kimball volunteered to go and encounter a heavy snow storm accompanied by a did go in company with Bro. Thomas. Before strong north wind. It was the most disastrous day starting Pres. Kimball appointed Bro. Gould Cap- of the whole trip, fifteen dying from fatigue and tain of the horse teams, and Bro. Wm. Hyde of the exposure to the cold. We had on this day as on Ox teams. On the 4th we met Bro. Blair with 3 previous and subsequent ones to clear away the wagons and other brethren with teams. snow in order to make places for pitching our Also on November 4th Brother Franklin B. tents. Not withstanding the disadvantages of our Wooley came along with a message from President position in crossing the Rocky Ridge, we traveled Brigham Young, that some freight which had been 16 miles on that day with our handcarts. left behind at Fort Bridger must be taken in this The total number of deaths in this com- season. So I immediately dispatched some Breth- pany from Liverpool was 77, besides one child ren with wagons and teams back for the freight in belonging to Captain Siler's wagon company. We question. had also 3 births, and 3 marriages on the trip. On Saturday November 8th President

61 Part of John Chislett's Narrative (Willie Handcart Company) as found in THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN SAINTS by T. B. H. Stenhouse

When we arrived at Iowa City, the great young and strong went along gaily with their carts, out-fitting point for the emigration, we found that but the old people and little children were to be three hand-cart companies had already gone for- seen straggling a long distance in the rear. Some- ward, under the respective captaincy of Edmund times, when the little folks had walked as far as Ellsworth, Daniel McArthur, and __ Bunker, all they could, their fathers would take them on their Valley elders returning from missions to England. carts, and thus increase the load that was already These companies reached Salt Lake City in safety becoming too heavy as the day advanced. But what before cold weather set in. No carts being ready will parents not do to benefit their children in time for us, nor indeed anything necessary for our jour- of trouble? The most affecting scene, however, ney, we were detained three weeks at Iowa Camp, was to see a mother carrying her child at the where we could celebrate the Fourth of July. breast, mile after mile, until nearly exhausted. The A few days after this we started on our heat was intense, and the dust suffocating, which journey, organized as follows: James. G. Willie, rendered our daily journeys toilsome in the ex- captain of the company, which numbered about treme. five hundred. Each hundred had a sub-captain, Our rations consisted of ten ounces of thus: first, Millen Atwood; second, Levi Savage; flour to each adult per day, and half that amount to third, William Woodward; fourth, John Chislett; children under eight years of age. Besides our fifth, __ Ahmensen. The third hundred were flour we had occasionally a little rice, sugar, and principally Scotch; the fifth, Scandinavians. The bacon. But these items (especially the last) were so other hundreds were mostly English. To each hun- small and infrequent that they scarcely deserve dred there were five round tents, with twenty per- mentioning. Any hearty man could eat his daily sons to a tent; twenty hand-carts, or one to every allowance for breakfast. In fact, some of our men five persons; and one Chicago wagon, drawn by did this, and then worked all day without dinner, three yoke of oxen, to haul provisions and tents. and went to bed supper less or begged food at the Each person was limited to seventeen pounds of farmhouses as we travelled along. clothing and bedding, making eighty-five pounds The people in Iowa were very good in of luggage to each cart. To this were added such giving to those who asked food, expressing their cooking utensils as the little mess of five required. sympathy for us whenever they visited our camp But their cuisine being scanty, not many articles which they did in large numbers if we stopped were needed, and I presume the average would not near a settlement. They tried to dissuade us from exceed fifteen to twenty pounds, making in all a going to Salt Lake in that way, and offered us em- little over a hundred pounds on each cart. The ployment and homes among them. A few of our carts being so poorly made, could not be laden company left us from time to time. Meetings were heavily, even had the people been able to haul held nearly every evening for preaching, counsel, them. and prayer. The strength of the company was equal- When we travelled in this impoverished ized as much as possible by distributing the young manner through Iowa, flour was selling at three men among the different families to help them. cents per pound, and bacon seven to eight cents. Several carts were drawn by young girls exclu- A little less than four weeks' travelling sively; and two tents were occupied by them and brought us to the Missouri river. We crossed it on such females as had no male companions. The a steam ferry-boat, and encamped at the town of other tents were occupied by families and some Florence, Nebraska, six miles above Omaha, young men; all ages and conditions being found in where we remained about a week, making our final one tent. Having been thrown closely together on preparations for crossing the plains. shipboard, all seemed to adapt themselves to this The elders seemed to be divided in their mode of tent-life without any marked repugnance. judgment as to the practicability of our reaching As we travelled along, we presented a sin- Utah in safety at so late a season of the year, and gular, and sometimes an affecting appearance. The the idea was entertained for a day or two of mak-

62 Part of John Chislett's Narrative (Willie Handcart Company) as found in THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN SAINTS by T. B. H. Stenhouse

ing our winter quarters on the Elkhorn, Wood Everything seemed to be propitious, and river, or some eligible location in Nebraska; but it we moved gaily forward full of hope and faith. At did not meet with general approval. A monster our camp each evening could be heard songs of meeting was called to consult the people about it. joy, merry peals of laughter, and bon mots on our The emigrants were entirely ignorant of condition and prospects. Brother Savage's warning the country and climate ... There were but four was forgotten in the mirthful ease of the hour. The men in our company who had been to the valley, only drawbacks to this part of our journey were the viz.: Willie, Atwood, Savage, and Woodward; but constant breaking down of carts and the delays there were several at Florence superintending the caused by repairing them. The axles and boxes emigration, among whom elders G. D. Grant and being of wood, and being ground out by the dust W. H. Kimball occupied the most prominent posi- that found its way there in spite of our efforts to tion. These men all talked at the meeting just men- keep it out, together with the extra weight put on tioned, and all, with one exception, favoured going the carts, had the effect of breaking the axles at the on ... But Levi Savage used his common sense and shoulder. All kinds of expedients were resorted to his knowledge of the country. He declared posi- as remedies for the growing evil, but with variable tively that to his certain knowledge we could not success. Some wrapped their axles with leather cross the mountains with a mixed company of obtained from boot-legs; others with tin, obtained aged people, women, and little children, so late in by sacrificing tin-plates, kettles, or buckets from the, season without much suffering, sickness, and their mess outfit. Besides these inconveniences, death. He therefore advised going into winter there was felt a great lack of a proper lubricator. quarters without delay; but he was rebuked by the Of anything suitable for this purpose we had none other elders for want of faith... Savage was ac- at all. The poor folks had to use their bacon (al- cordingly defeated, as the majority were against ready totally insufficient for their wants) to grease him. He then added: "Brethren and sisters, what I their axles, and some even used their soap, of have said I know to be true; but, seeing you are to which they had very little, to make their carts trun- go forward, I will go with you, will help you all I dle somewhat easier. In about twenty days, how- can, will work with you, will rest with you, will ever, the flour being consumed, breakdowns suffer with you, and, if necessary, I will die with became less frequent, and we jogged along finely. you. May God in his mercy bless and preserve us. We travelled from ten to twenty miles per day, Amen." averaging about fifteen miles. The people felt well, Brother Savage was true to his word; no so did our cattle, and our immediate prospects of a man worked harder than he to alleviate the suffer- prosperous journey were good. But the fates ing which he had foreseen, when he had to endure seemed to be against us. it. About this time we reached Wood river. We started from Florence about the 18th The whole country was alive with buffaloes, and of August, and travelled in the same way as one night or, rather, evening -- our cattle stam- through Iowa, except that our carts were more peded. Men went in pursuit and collected what heavily laden, as our teams could not haul suffi- they supposed to be the herd; but, on corralling cient flour to last us to Utah; it was therefore de- them for yoking next morning, thirty head were cided to put one sack (ninety-eight pounds) on missing. We hunted for them three days in every each cart in addition to the regular baggage. Some direction, but did not find them. We at last reluc- of the people grumbled at this, but the majority tantly gave up the search, and prepared to travel bore it without a murmur. Our flour ration was without them as best we could. We had only about increased to a pound per day; fresh beef was is- enough oxen left to put one yoke to each wagon; sued occasionally, and each "hundred" had three but, as they were each loaded with about three or four milch cows. The flour on the carts was thousand pounds of flour, the teams could not of used first, the weakest parties being the first re- course move them. We then yoked up our beef lieved of their burdens. cattle, milch cows, and, in fact, everything that

63 Part of John Chislett's Narrative (Willie Handcart Company) as found in THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN SAINTS by T. B. H. Stenhouse could bear a yoke -- even two-year old heifers. The letter from apostle Richards informing him that we stock was wild and could pull but little, and we might expect supplies to meet us from the valley were unable, with all our stock, to move our loads. by the time we reached South Pass. An examina- As a last resort we again loaded a sack of flour on tion of our stock of flour showed us that it would each cart. be gone before we reached that point. Our only The patience and faith of the good honest alternative was to still further reduce our bill of people were shaken somewhat by this (to them) fare. The issue of flour was then to average ten hard stroke of Providence. Some complained ounces per day to each person over ten years of openly; others, less demonstrative, chewed the age, and to be divided thus: working-men to re- bitter cud of discontent; while the greater part saw ceive twelve ounces, women and old men nine the "hand of the Lord" in it. The belief that we ounces, and children from four to eight ounces, were the spiritual favourites of the Almighty, and according to age and size. that he would control everything for our good, This arrangement dissatisfied some, espe- soon revived us after our temporary despondency, cially men with families; for so far they had really and in a day or two faith was as assuring as ever done better than single men, the children's rations with the pilgrims. But our progress was slow, the being some help to them. But, taken altogether, it old breakdowns were constantly repeated, and was as good a plan as we could have adopted un- some could not refrain from murmuring in spite of der the circumstances. the general trustfulness. It was really hard for the Many of our men showed signs of failing, folks to lose the use of their milch cows, have beef and to reduce their rations below twelve ounces rations stopped, and haul one hundred pounds would have been suicidal to the company, seeing more on their carts. Every man and woman, how- they had to stand guard at night, wade the streams ever, worked to their utmost to put forward to- repeatedly by day to get the women and children wards the goal of their hopes. across, erect tents, and do many duties which One evening, as we were camped on the women could not do. west bank of the North Bluff Fork of the Platte, a Our captain did his utmost to move us grand outfit of carriages and light wagons was forward and always acted with great impartiality. driven into our camp from the East ... The occu- The sub-captains had plenty of work, too, in seeing pants we soon found to be the apostle F. D. Ri- that rations were fairly divided, equally distribut- chards, elders W. H. Kimball, G. D. Grant, Joseph ing the strength of their hundreds, helping the sick A. Young, C. G. Webb, N. H. Felt, W. C. Dunbar, and the weakly, etc. and others who were returning to Utah from mis- We had not travelled far up the Sweetwa- sions abroad. They camped with us for the night, ter before the nights, which had gradually been and in the morning a general meeting was called. getting colder since we left Laramie, became very We reached Laramie about the 1st or 2nd severe. The mountains before us, as we ap- of September ... Captain Willie called a meeting to proached nearer to them, revealed themselves to take into consideration our circumstances, condi- view mantled nearly to their base in snow, and tion, and prospects, and to see what could be done. tokens of a coming storm were discernible in the It was ascertained that at our present rate of travel clouds which each day seemed to lower around us. and consumption of flour, the latter would be ex- In our frequent crossings of the Sweetwater, we hausted when we were about three hundred and had really "a hard road to travel." The water was fifty miles from our destination! It was resolved to beautiful to the eye, as it rolled over its rocky bed reduce our allowance from one pound to three- as clear as crystal; but when we waded it time after quarters of a pound per day, and at the same time time at each ford to get the carts, the women, and to make every effort in our power to travel faster. the children over, the beautiful stream, with its We continued this rate of rations from Laramie to romantic surroundings (which should awaken holy Independence Rock. and poetic feelings in the soul, and draw it nearer About this time Captain Willie received a to the Great Author of life), lost to us its beauty,

64 Part of John Chislett's Narrative (Willie Handcart Company) as found in THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN SAINTS by T. B. H. Stenhouse and the chill which it sent through our systems of being laid in the consecrated ground of Zion. drove out from our minds all holy and devout aspi- The sorrow and mourning of the bereaved, as they rations, and left a void, a sadness, and in some saw their husbands and fathers rudely interred, cases doubts as to the justice of an overruling were affecting in the extreme, and none but a heart Providence. of stone could repress a tear of sympathy at the sad Our seventeen pounds of clothing and spectacle. bedding was now altogether insufficient for our Each death weakened our forces. In my comfort. Nearly all suffered more or less at night hundred I could not raise enough men to pitch a from cold. Instead of getting up in the morning tent when we encamped, and now it was that I had strong, refreshed, vigorous, and prepared for the to exert myself to the utmost. I wonder I did not hardships of another day of toil, the poor Saints die, as many did who were stronger than I was. were to be seen crawling out from their tents When we pitched our camp in the evening of each looking haggard, benumbed, and showing an utter day, I had to lift the sick from the wagon and carry lack of that vitality so necessary to our success. them to the fire, and in the morning carry them Cold weather, scarcity of food, lassitude again on my back to the wagon. When any in my and fatigue from over-exertion, soon produced hundred died I had to inter them; often helping to their effects. Our old and infirm people began to dig the grave myself. In performing these sad of- droop, and they no sooner lost spirit and courage fices I always offered up a heartfelt prayer to that than death's stamp could be traced upon their fea- God who beheld our sufferings, and begged him to tures. Life went out as smoothly as a lamp ceases avert destruction from us and send us help. to bum when the oil is gone. At first the deaths We travelled on in misery and sorrow day occurred slowly and irregularly, but in a few days after day. Sometimes we made a pretty good dis- at more frequent intervals, until we soon thought it tance, but at other times we were only able to unusual to leave a camp-ground without burying make a few miles' progress. Finally we were one or more persons. overtaken by a snow storm which the shrill wind Death was not long confined in its ravages blew furiously about us. The snow fell several to the old and infirm, but the young and naturally inches deep, as we travelled along, but we dared strong were among its victims. Men who were, so not stop, for we had a sixteen-mile journey to to speak, as strong as lions when we started on our make, and short of it we could not get wood and journey, and who had been our best supports, were water. compelled to succumb to the grim monster. These As we were resting for a short time at men where worn down by hunger, scarcity of noon a light wagon was driven into our camp from clothing and bedding, and too much labour in the west. Its occupants were Joseph A. Young and helping their families. Weakness and debility were Stephen Taylor. They informed us that a train of accompanied by dysentery. This we could not stop supplies was on the way, and we might expect to or even alleviate, no proper medicines being in the meet it in a day or two. More welcome messengers camp; and in almost every instance it carried off never came from the courts of glory than these two the parties attacked. It was surprising to an unmar- young men were to us. They lost no time after en- ried man to witness the devotion of men to their couraging us all they could to press forward, but families and to their faith, under these trying cir- sped on further east to convey their glad news Ed- cumstances. Many a father pulled his cart, with his ward Martin and the fifth handcart company who little children on it, until the day preceding his left Florence about two weeks after us, and who it death. I have seen some pull their carts in the was feared were even worse off than we were. As morning, give out during the day, and die before they went from our view, many a hearty "A God next morning. These people died with the calm bless you" followed them. faith and fortitude of martyrs. Their greatest regret We pursued our journey with renewed seemed to be leaving their families behind them, hope and after untold toil and fatigue, doubling and their bodies on the plains or mountains instead teams frequently, going back to fetch up the strag-

65 Part of John Chislett's Narrative (Willie Handcart Company) as found in THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN SAINTS by T. B. H. Stenhouse gling carts, and encouraging those who had memorable morning turned over to me by Captain dropped by the way to a little more exertion in Willie, with strict injunctions to distribute them view of our soon-to-be improved condition, we only to the sick and to mothers for their hungry finally, late at night, got all to camp - the wind children, and even to them in as sparing a manner howling frightfully and the snow eddying around as possible. It was an unenviable place to occupy, us in fitful gusts. But we had found a good camp a hard duty to perform; but I acted to the best of among the willows, and after warming and par- my ability, using all the discretion I could. tially drying ourselves before good fires, we ate Being surrounded by snow a foot deep, our scanty fare, paid our usual devotions to the out of provisions, many of our people sick, and our Deity and retired to rest with hopes of coming aid. cattle dying, it was decided that we should remain In the morning the snow was over a foot in our present camp until the supply train reached deep. Our cattle strayed widely during the storm, us. It was also resolved in council that Captain and some of them died. But what was worse to us Willie with one man should go in search of the than all this was the fact that jive persons of both supply train and apprise its lead of our condition, sexes lay in the cold embrace of death. The pitiless and hasten him to our help. When this was done storm and the extra march of the previous day had we settled down and made our camp as comfort- been too much for their wasted energies, and they able as we could. As Captain Willie and his com- had passed through the dark valley to the bright panion left for the West, many a heart was lifted in world beyond. We buried these five people in one prayer for their success and speedy return. They grave, wrapped only in the clothing and bedding in were absent three days--three days which I shall which they died. We had no materials with which never forget. The scanty allowance of hard bread to make coffins, and even if we had, we could not and poor beef, distributed as described, was mostly have spared time to make them, for it required all consumed the first day by the hungry, ravenous, the efforts of the healthy few who remained to per- famished souls. form the ordinary camp duties and to look after the We killed more cattle and issued the meat; sick--the number of whom increased daily on our but, eating it without bread, did not satisfy hunger, hands, notwithstanding so many were dying. and to those who were suffering from dysentery it The morning before the storm, or rather, did more harm than good. This terrible disease the morning of the day on which it came, we is- increased rapidly amongst us during these three sued the last ration of flour. On this fatal morning, days, and several died from exhaustion. Before we therefore, we had none to issue. We had, however, renewed our journey the camp became so offen- a barrel or two of hard bread which Captain Willie sive and filthy that words would fail to describe its had procured at Fort Laramie in view of our des- condition, and even common decency forbids the titution. This was equally and fairly divided among attempt. Suffice it to say that all the disgusting all the company. Two of our poor broken-down scenes which the reader might imagine would cer- cattle were killed and their carcasses issued for tainly not equal the terrible reality. It was enough beef. With this we were informed that we would to make the heavens weep. The recollection of it have to subsist until the coming supplies reached unmans me even now--those three days! During us. All that now remained in our commissary were that time I visited the sick, the widows whose hus- a few pounds each of sugar and dried apples, about bands died in serving them, and the aged who a quarter of a sack of rice and a small quantity could not help themselves, to know for myself (possibly 20 or 25 lbs.) of hard bread. The brother where to dispense the few articles that had been who had been our commissary all the way from placed in my charge for distribution. Such craving Liverpool had not latterly acted in a way to merit hunger I never saw before, and may God in his the confidence of the company; but it is hard to mercy spare me the sight again. handle the provisions and suffer hunger at the As I was seen giving these things to the same time, so I will not write a word of condem- most needy, crowds of famished men and women nation. These few scanty supplies were on this surrounded me and begged for bread! Men whom

66 Part of John Chislett's Narrative (Willie Handcart Company) as found in THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN SAINTS by T. B. H. Stenhouse

I had known all the way from Liverpool, who had strong men wept till tears ran freely down their been true as steel in every stage of our journey, furrowed and sun-burnt cheeks, and little children who in their homes in England and Scotland had partook of the joy which some of them hardly un- never known want; men who by honest labour had derstood, and fairly danced around with gladness. sustained themselves and their families, and saved Restraint was set aside in the general rejoicing, enough to cross the Atlantic and traverse the and as the brethren entered our camp the sisters United States, whose hearts were cast in too great fell upon them and deluged the brethren them with a mould to descend to a mean act or brook dishon- kisses. The brethren were so overcome that they our; such men as these came to me and begged could not for sometime utter a word, but in chok- bread. I felt humbled to the dust for my race and ing silenced repressed all demonstration of those nation, and I hardly know which feeling was emotions that evidently mastered them. Soon, strongest at that time, pity for our condition, or however, feeling was somewhat abated, and such a malediction on the fates that so humbled the proud shaking of hands, such words of welcome, and Anglo-Saxon nature. But duty might not be set such invocation of God's blessing have seldom aside by feeling, however natural, so I positively been witnessed. refused these men bread! But while I did so, I ex- I was installed as regular commissary to plained to them the painful position in which I was the camp. The brethren turned over to me flour, placed, and most of them acknowledged that I was potatoes, onions, and a limited supply of warm right. Not a few of them afterwards spoke approv- clothing for both sexes, besides quilts, blankets, ingly of my stern performance of duty. It is diffi- buffalo-robes, woollen socks, etc. I first distributed cult, however, to reason with a hungry man; but the necessary provisions, and after supper divided these noble fellows, when they comprehended my the clothing, bedding, etc., where it was most position, had faith in my honour. Some of them are needed. That evening, for the first time in quite a in Utah to-day, and when we meet, the strong grip period, the songs of Zion were to be heard in the of friendship overcomes, for the moment at least, camp, and peals of laughter issued from the little all differences of opinion which we may entertain knots of people as they chatted around the fires. on any subject. May the Heavens ever be kind to The change seemed almost miraculous, so sudden them, whatever their faith, for they are good men was it from grave to gay, from sorrow to gladness, and true. And the sisters who suffered with us-- from mourning to rejoicing. With the cravings of may the loving angels ever be near them to guard hunger satisfied, and with hearts filled with grati- them from the ills of life. tude to God and our good brethren, we all united The storm which we encountered, our in prayer, and then retired to rest. brethren from the Valley also met, and not know- Among the brethren who came to our suc- ing that we were utterly destitute, they encamped cor were elders W. H. Kimball and G. D. Grant. to await fine weather. But when Captain Willie They had remained but a few days in the Valley found them and explained our real condition, they before starting back to meet us. May God ever at once hitched up their teams and made all speed bless them for their generous, unselfish kindness to come to our rescue. On the evening of the third and their manly fortitude! They felt that they had, day after Captain Willie's departure, just as the in a great measure, contributed to our sad position; sun was sinking beautifully behind the distant but how nobly, how faithfully, how bravely they hills, on an eminence immediately west of our worked to bring us safely to the Valley--to the camp several covered wagons, each drawn by four Zion of our hopes! horses, were seen coming towards us. The news The next morning the small company ran through the camp like wildfire, and all who which came to our relief divided: one half, under were able to leave their beds turned out en masse G. D. Grant, going east to meet Martin's company, to see them. A few minutes brought them suffi- and the other half, under W. H. Kimball, remain- ciently near to reveal our faithful captain slightly ing with us. From this point until we reached the in advance of the train. Shouts of joy rent the air; Valley, W. H. Kimball took full charge of us.

67 Part of John Chislett's Narrative (Willie Handcart Company) as found in THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN SAINTS by T. B. H. Stenhouse

We travelled but a few miles the first day, had started. In about half an hour, I set out on foot the roads being very heavy. All who were unable along to do my duty as rear-guard to the camp. The to pull their carts were allowed to put their little ascent of the ridge commenced soon after leaving outfits into the wagon and walk along, and those camp, and I had not gone far up it before I over- who were really unable to walk were allowed to took a cart that the folks could not pull through the ride. The second day we travelled a little farther, snow, here about knee-deep. I helped them along, and each day Brother Kimball got the company and we soon overtook another. By all hands get- along as far as it was possible to move it, but still ting to one cart we could travel; so we moved one our progress was very slow. of the carts a few rods, and then went back and Timely and good beyond estimate as the brought up the other. After moving in this way for help which we received from the Valley was to our a while, we overtook other carts at different points company generally, it was too late for some of our of the hill, until we had six carts, not one of which number. They were already prostrated and beyond could be moved by the parties owning it. I put our all human help. Some seemed to have lost mental collective strength to three carts at a time, took as well as physical energy. We talked to them of them a short distance, and then brought up the our improved condition, appealed to their love of other three. Thus by travelling over the hill three life and showed them how easy it was to retain that times--twice forward and once back--I succeeded life by arousing themselves; but all to no purpose. after hours of toil in bringing my little company to We then addressed ourselves to their religious the summit. The six carts were then trotted on feelings, their wish to see Zion; to know the gaily down hill, the intense cold stirring us to ac- Prophet Brigham; showed them the good things tion. One or two parties who were with these carts that he had sent out to us, and told them how gave up entirely, and but for the fact that we over- deeply he sympathized with us in our sufferings, took one of our ox-teams that had been detained and what a welcome he would give us when we on the road, they must have perished on that reached the city. But all our efforts were unavail- Rocky Ridge. One old man, named James (a farm- ing; they had lost all love of life, all sense of sur- labourer from Gloucestershire), who had a large rounding things, and had sunk down into a state of family, and who had worked very hard all the way, indescribable apathy. I found sitting by the roadside unable to pull his The weather grew colder each day, and cart any farther, I could not get him into the many got their feet so badly frozen that they could wagon, as it was already overcrowded. He had a not walk, and had to be lifted from place to place. shotgun which he had brought from England, and Some got their fingers frozen; others their ears; which had been a great blessing to him and his and one woman lost her sight by the frost. These family, for he was a good shot, and often had a severities of the weather also increased our number mess of sage hens or rabbits for his family, I took of deaths, so that we buried several each day. the gun from the cart, put a small bundle on the A few days of bright freezing weather end of it, placed it on his shoulder, and started him were succeeded by another snow storm. The day out with his little boy, twelve years old. His wife we crossed the Rocky Ridge it was snowing a lit- and two daughters older than the boy took the cart tle--the wind hard from the north-west--and blow- along finely after reaching the summit. ing so keenly that it almost pierced us through. We We travelled along with the ox-team and had to wrap ourselves closely in blankets, quilts, or overtook others, all so laden with the sick and whatever else we could get, to keep from freezing. helpless that they moved very slowly. The oxen Captain Willie still attended to the details of the had almost given out. Some of our folks with carts company's travelling, and this day he appointed went ahead of the teams, for where the roads were me to bring up the rear. My duty was to stay be- good they could out-travel oxen; but we constantly hind everything and that nobody was left along the overtook some stragglers, some with carts, some road. I had to bury a man who had died in my without, who had been unable to keep pace with hundred, and I finished doing so after the company the body of the company. We struggled along in

68 Part of John Chislett's Narrative (Willie Handcart Company) as found in THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN SAINTS by T. B. H. Stenhouse this weary way until after dark, and by this time camp fires, which encouraged me. As I neared the our "rear" numbered 3 wagons, 8 handcarts, and camp I frequently overtook stragglers on foot, all nearly 40 persons. With the wagons were Millen pressing forward slowly. I stopped to speak to each Atwood, Levi Savage, and William Woodward, one, cautioning them all against resting, as they captains of hundreds, faithful men who had would surely freeze to death. Finally, about 11 worked hard all the way. p.m., I reached the camp almost exhausted. I had We finally came to a stream of water exerted myself very much during the day in which was frozen over. We could not see where bringing the rear carts up the ridge and had not the company had crossed. If at the point where we eaten anything since breakfast. I reported to Cap- struck the creek, then it had frozen over since we tains Willie and Kimball the situation of the folks passed it. We started one team to cross, but the behind. They immediately got up some horses, and oxen broke through the ice and would not go over. the boys from the Valley started back about mid- No amount of shouting and whipping could induce night to help the ox teams in. The night was very them to stir an inch. We were afraid to try the severe and many of the emigrants were frozen. It other teams, for even should they cross we could was 5 a.m. before the last team reached the camp. not leave the one in the creek and go on. There I told my companions about the old man was no wood in the vicinity, so we could make no James and his little boy. They found the little fel- fire, and were uncertain what to do. We did not low keeping faithful watch over his father, who lay know the distance to the camp, but supposed it to sleeping in my quilt just as I left him. They lifted be three or four miles. After consulting about it, him into a wagon, still alive, but in a sort of stupor. we resolved that some one should go on foot to the He died before morning. His last words were an camp to inform the captain of our situation. I was enquiry as to the safety of his shot-gun. selected to perform the duty, and I set out with all There were so many dead and dying that it speed. In crossing the creek I slipped through the was decided to lie by for the day. In the forenoon I ice and got my feet wet, my boots being nearly was appointed to go round the camp and collect worn out. I had not gone far when I saw some one the dead. I took with me two young men to assist sitting by the roadside. I stopped to see who it was, me in the sad task, and we collected together, of all an discovered the old man James and his little boy. ages and both sexes, thirteen corpses, all stiffly The poor old man was quite worn out. frozen. We had a large square hole dug in which I got him to his feet and had him lean on we buried these thirteen people, three or four me, and he walked a little distance, not very far. I abreast and three deep. When they did not fit in,.. partly dragged, partly carried him a short distance we put one or two crosswise at the head or feet of farther, but he was quite helpless, and my strength the others. We covered them with willows and failed me. Being obliged to leave him to go for- then with the earth. When we buried these thirteen ward on my own errand, I put down a quilt I had people some of their relatives refused to attend the wrapped around me, rolled him in it, and told the services. They manifested an utter indifference little boy to walk up and down by his father, and about it. The numbness and cold in their physical on no account to sit down, or he would be frozen natures seem to have reached the soul, and to have to death. I told him to watch for teams that would crushed out natural feeling and affection. Had I not come back, and to hail them when they came. This myself witnessed it, I could not have believed that done I again set out for the camp, running nearly suffering would have produced such terrible re- all the way and frequently falling down, for there sults. But so it was. Two others died during the were many obstructions and holes in the road. My day, and we buried them in one grave, makingfif- boots were frozen stiff, so that I had not the free teen in all buried on that camp ground. It was on use of my feet, and it was only by rapid motion Willow creek, a tributary of the Sweetwater river. I that I kept them from being badly frozen. As it learned afterwards from men who passed that way was, both were nipped. the next summer, that the wolves had exhumed the After some time I came in sight of the bodies, and their bones were scattered thickly

69 Part of John Chislett's Narrative (Willie Handcart Company) as found in THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN SAINTS by T. B. H. Stenhouse around the vicinity. strength and reached Salt Lake City in good health The day of rest did the company good, and and spirits. we started out next morning with new life. During When we left Iowa City we numbered the day we crossed the Sweetwater on the ice, about five hundred persons. Some few deserted us which did not break, although our wagons were while passing through Iowa, and some remained at laden with sick people. The effects of our lack of Florence. When we left the latter place we num- food, and the terrible ordeal of the Rocky Ridge, bered four hundred and twenty, about twenty of still remained among us. Two or three died every whom were independent emigrants with their own day. At night we camped a little east by north from wagons, so that our hand-cart company was actu- the South Pass, and two men in my hundred died. ally four hundred of this number. Sixty-seven died It devolved on me to bury them. This I did before on the journey, making a mortality of one-sixth of breakfast. The effluvia from these corpses were our number. Of those who were sick on our arri- horrible, and it is small matter for wonder that af- val, two or three soon died. President Young had ter performing the last sad offices for them I was arranged with the bishops of the different wards taken sick and vomited fearfully. Many said my and settlements to take care of the poor emigrants "time" had come, and I was myself afraid that such who had no friends to receive them, and their was the case, but by the blessing of God I got over kindness in this respect cannot be too highly it and lived. praised. It was enough that a poor family had Near South Pass we found more brethren come with the hand-carts, to insure help during the from the Valley, with several quarters of good fat winter from the good brethren in the different set- beef hanging frozen on the limbs of the trees tlements. Myoid friend W. G. Mills and his wife where they were encamped. These quarters of beef received me and my betrothed most kindly, so I were to us the handsomest pictures we ever saw. had no need of Church aid. The statues of Michael Angelo, or the paintings of After arriving in the Valley, I found that the ancient masters, would have been to us nothing President Young, on learning, from the brethren in comparison to these life-giving pictures. who passed us on the road, of the lateness of our After getting over the Pass we soon expe- leaving the frontier, set to work at once to send us rienced the influence of a warmer climate, and for relief. It was the October Conference when they a few days we made good progress. We constantly arrived with the news. Brigham at once suspended met teams from the Valley, with all necessary pro- all conference business, and declared that nothing visions. Most of these went on to Martin's com- further should be done until every available team pany, but enough remained with us for our actual was started out to meet us. He set the example by wants. At Fort Bridger we found a great many sending several of his best mule teams laden with teams that had come to our help. The noble fellows provisions. Heber Kimball did the same, and hun- who came to our assistance invariably received us dreds of others followed their noble example. Peo- joyfully, and did all in their power to alleviate our ple who had come from distant parts of the sufferings. May they never need similar relief1 Territory to attend conference volunteered to go From Bridger all our company rode, and this day I out to meet us, and went at once. The people who also rode for the first time on our journey. The en- had no teams gave freely of provisions, bedding, tire distance from Iowa City to Fort Bridger I etc.-- all doing their best to help us. walked, and waded every stream from the Missouri to that point, except Elkhorn, which we ferried, and Green river, which I crossed in a wagon. During the journey from Bridger to Salt Lake a few died of dysentery, and some from the effects of frost the day we crossed the fatal Rocky Ridge. But those who weathered that fatal day and night, and were free from disease, gradually regained

70 Part of Forty YearsAmong The Indians Daniel W. Jones (Rescuer)

I ATTENDED the October conference of and popular man in the camp. The rest of the com- 1856. When conference was opened President pany was made up of the following persons: Jo- Young arose and said: "There are a number of our seph A. Young, Chauncey Webb, H. H. Cluff, D. people on the plains who have started to come P. Kimball, George W. Grant, Ed. Peck, Joel Par- with hand-carts; they will need help and I want rish, Henry Goldsbrough, Thomas Alexander, twenty teams to be ready by morning with two Benjamin Hampton, Thomas Ricks, Abe Garr, men to each team to go out and meet them. If the Charles Grey, Al Huntington, "Handsome Cupid," teams are not voluntarily furnished, there are Stephen Taylor, William K. Broomhead, Ira Ne- plenty of good ones in the. street and I shall call beker, Redick Allred, Amos Fairbanks and Tom upon Brother J. Little, the marshal, to furnish Bankhead, a colored man. These are all the names them. Now we will adjourn this conference until that I remember, if there were any more I have to-morrow." Brother Young was in earnest; he been unable to find them. seemed moved by a spirit that would admit of no The weather soon became cold and delay. stormy. We traveled hard, never taking time to A few days before this a number of elders stop for dinner. On getting into camp all were had arrived from the old country reporting that the hungry and willing to help. No doubt many of the hand-cart people were on the road, but they did not boys remember the hearty suppers eaten on the know how far they had advanced. In those days expedition. There was some expectation of meet- there was no telegraph, and mails from the east ing the first train, Brother Willie's on or about only reached Utah monthly, they being many times Green river. We began to feel great anxiety about delayed by high water, Indians or other causes. the emigrants as the weather was now cold and Brother Young called upon every one pre- stormy, and we, strong men with good outfits, sent to lend a hand in fitting up these teams. As I found the nights severe. What must be the condi- was going out with the crowd, Brother Wells tion of those we were to meet? Many old men and spoke to me saying: "You are a good hand for the women, little children, mothers with nursing trip; get ready." Soon after Bishop Hunter said the babes, crossing the plains pulling hand-carts. Our same thing to me. Also Brother Grant met me and hearts began to ache when we reached Green river said: "I want you on this trip." I began to think it and yet no word of them. Here an express was sent time to decide, so I answered, "all right." on ahead with a light wagon to meet and cheer the I had a saddle horse. We were instructed people up. Cyrus Wheelock and Stephen Taylor to get everything we could ready and rendezvous went with this express. between the Big and Little Mountains, a short At the South Pass, we encountered a se- day's drive out from Salt Lake. Next day teams vere snowstorm. After crossing the divide we and volunteer men were ready. A better outfit and turned down into a sheltered place on the Sweet- one more adapted to the work before us I do not water. While in camp and during the snow-storm think could have possibly been selected if a week two men were seen on horseback going west. They had been spent in fitting up. Besides the wagons were hailed. On reaching us they proved to be and teams, several men went horseback. We had Brothers Willie and J. B. Elder. They reported good teams and provisions in abundance. But best their company in a starving condition at their camp of all, those going were alive to the work and were then eastof Rocky Ridge and said our express had of the best material possible for the occasion. gone on to meet the other companies still in the As soon as all were together we organized rear. We started immediately through the storm to and moved on. George D. Grant was selected cap- reach Brother Willie's camp. On arriving we tain, with Robert Burton and William Kimball as found them in a condition that would stir the feel- assistants; Cyrus Wheelock, chaplain; Charles ings of the hardest heart. They were in a poor Decker, guide. I was given the important position place, the storm having caught them where fuel of chief cook for the head mess. I was quite proud was scarce. They were out of provisions and really of my office, for it made me the most sought after freezing and starving to death. The morning after

103 Part of Forty Years Among The Indians Daniel W. Jones (Rescuer) our arrival nine were buried in one grave. We did rode at full gallop wherever the road would permit. all we could to relieve them. The boys struck out After riding about twelve miles we saw a white on horseback and dragged up a lot of wood; provi- man's shoe track in the road. Bro. Young called sions were distributed and all went to work to out, "Here they are." We put our animals to their cheer the sufferers. Soon there was an improve- utmost speed and soon came in sight of the camp ment in camp, but many poor, faithful people had at Red Bluff. This was Brother Edward Martin's gone too far--had passed beyond the power to re- handcart company and Ben Horgett's wagon com- cruit. Our help came too late for some and many pany. There was still another wagon company died after our arrival. down near the Platte crossing. William Kimball with a few men and This company was in almost as bad a con- wagons turned back, taking the oversight of this dition as the first one. They had nearly given up company to help them in. Capt. Grant left a wagon hope. Their provisions were about exhausted and load of flour near the Pass with Redick Allred to many of them worn out and sick. When we rode guard it. There were several hundred people with in, there was a general rush to shake hands. I took Brother Willie. They had a few teams, but most of no part in the ceremony. Many declared we were them had become too weak to be of much service. angels from heaven. I told them I thought we were When we left Salt Lake it was understood that better than angels for this occasion, as we were other teams would follow until all the help needed good strong men come to help them into the val- would be on the road. ley, and that our company, and wagons loaded The greater portion of our company now with provisions, were not far away. I thought this continued on towards Devil's Gate, traveling the best consolation under the circumstances. through snow all the way. When we arrived at Brother Young told the people to gather "up" and Devil's Gate we found our express there awaiting move on at once as the only salvation was to travel us. No tidings as yet were received of the other a little every day. This was right and no doubt companies. saved many lives for we, among so many, (some twelve hundred) could do but little, and there was HAVING seen the sufferings of Brother danger of starvation before help could arrive un- Willie's company, we more fully realized the dan- less the people made some head-way toward the ger the others were in. The Elders who had just valley. ,. returned from England having many dear friends After talking to and encouraging the peo- with these companies, suffered great anxiety, some ple, they agreed to start on the next morning. We of them feeling more or less the responsibility then started full gallop for John Hunt's camp fif- resting upon them for allowing these people to teen miles further. On arriving no one noticed us start so late in the season across the plains. At first or appeared to care who we were. Their tents were we were at a loss what to do for we did not expect pitched in good shape, wood was plentiful, and no to have to go further than Devil's Gate. We de- one seemed concerned. Joseph A. Young became cided to make camp and send on an express to find offended, not expecting such a cool reception and where the people were and not to return until they remarked, "Well it appears we are not needed were found. here." So we went down into the bottom and Joseph A. Young, Abe Garr and I were made camp for ourselves. After a while some one selected. (Some histories give other names, but I sauntered down our way, thinking probably we was there myself and am not mistaken.) With were mountaineers. They recognized Brother packed saddle horses and a pack mule we started Young and made a rush for camp, giving the word; out. soon we were literally carried in and a special tent The first night we camped, our horses was pitched for our use. Everything was done to followed a band of buffaloes several miles; it was make "amends" for the previous neglect. I never near noon the next day when we returned with could see where the amends came in, for no one them. We determined to get even with them so happened to know us when we first arrived, and

104 Part of Forty Years Among The Indians Daniel W. Jones (Rescuer) strangers were often passing, this being near where were two of us and hundreds needing help. What several camps of old traders were located. could we do? We gathered on to some of the most About the time we were settled in our tent, helpless with our riatas [lariats] tied to the carts, Captain Hunt and Gilbert Van Schoonhoven, his and helped as many as we could into camp on assistant, arrived from the Platte bridge, also Cap- Avenue hill. tain Ben Horgett. They were rejoiced to meet us. This was a bitter, cold night and we had Here I first met "Gib Spencer" and formed a no fuel except very small sage brush. Several died friendly acquaintance with him which continues to that night. this day. Next morning, Brother Young having These people were just on the eve of suf- come up, we three started for our camp near fering, but as yet had not. Quite a number of their Devil's Gate. All were rejoiced to get the news cattle had died during the snow storm which had that we had found the emigrants. The following now been on them for nine days. morning most of the company moved down, Next morning Brother Young and others meeting the handcart company at Greasewood went to Platte bridge, leaving Brother Garr and I to creek. Such assistance as we could give was ren- get the company started according to agreement dered to all until they finally arrived at Devil' s made the evening before. There was a spirit of Gate fort about the 1st of November. There were apathy among the people, instead of going for their some twelve hundred in all, about one-half with teams at once, several began to quarrel about who handcarts and the other half with teams. should go. This made us feel like leaving them to take care of themselves. We saddled up to do so. THE winter storms had now set in, in all The clouds were gathering thickly for storm, and their severity. The provisions we took amounted to just as we were about to start it commenced almost nothing among so many people, many of snowing very hard. The heavens were obscured by them now on very short rations, some almost clouds, excepting a small place about the shape of starving. Many were dying daily from exposure the gable end of a house. This opening was in the and want of food. We were at a loss to know why direction of the valley and the sun seemed to shine others had not come on to our assistance. through with great brightness. We mounted our The company was composed of average mules; Brother Garr, pointing to the bright spot in emigrants: old, middle-aged and young; women the heavens, said, "Do you see that hole? You had and children. The men seemed to be failing and better all get out of here before that closes up, for dying faster than the women and children. it is your opening to the valley. We are going." The hand-cart company was moved over The people, I believe, took this for a warning and to a cove in the mountains for shelter and fuel; a soon started for their cattle. distance of two miles from the fort. The wagons Next morning they moved on. Brother were banked near the fort. It became impossible to Garr and I went back to where E. Martin's camp travel further without reconstruction or help. We had been. They had rolled out and Captain Hor- did all we possibly could to help and cheer the gett's wagon company were just starting. people. Some writers have endeavored to make We continued on, overtaking the hand-cart individual heroes of some of our company. I have company ascending a long muddy hill. A condition no remembrance of anyone shirking his duty. of distress here met my eyes that I never saw be- Each and everyone did all they possibly could and fore or since. The train was strung out for three or justice would give to each his due credit. four miles. There were old men pulling and tug- All the people who could, crowded into ging their carts, sometimes loaded with a sick wife the houses of the fort out of the cold and storm. or children-women pulling along sick husbands-- One crowd cut away the walls of the house they little children six to eight years old struggling were in for fuel, until half of the roof fell in; fortu- through the mud and snow. As night came on the nately they were all on the protected side and no mud would freeze on their clothes and feet. There one was hurt.

105 Part of Forty YearsAmong The Indians Daniel W. Jones (Rescuer)

Many suggestions were offered as to what rooms in the fort were cleared and some two hun- should be done, some efforts being made to cache dred wagons run in and unloaded. No one was al- the imperishable goods and go on with the rest. lowed to keep out anything but a change of Accordingly pits were dug, boxes opened and the clothing, some bedding and light cooking utensils. hardware, etc., put in one, while clothing, etc., Hauling provisions was not a weighty question. were put in another. This unloading occupied three days. The Often these boxes belonged to different handcart people were notified to abandon most of persons. An attempt was made by Brother Cant- their carts. Teams were hitched up and the sick well, to keep an account of these changes. and feeble loaded in with such light weight as was This caching soon proved to be a failure allowed. All became common property. for the pits would fill up with drifting snow as fast When everything was ready Brother Bur- as the dirt was thrown out, so no caches were ton said to me, ''Now Brother Jones we want you made. The goods were never replaced. to pick two men from the valley to stay with you. Each evening the Elders would meet in We have notified Captains Hunt and Hodgett to council. I remember hearing Charles Decker re- detail seventeen men from their companies to stay mark that he had crossed the plains over fifty times with you. We will move on in the morning. Get (carrying the mail) and this was the darkest our he your company together and such provisions as you had ever seen. Cattle and horses were dying every can find in the hands of those who may have any- day. What to do was all that could be talked about. thing to spare. You know ours is about out. Will Five or six days had passed and nothing deter- you do it?" I said, Yes. "Well take your choice mined upon. from our company. You are acquainted with the Steve Taylor, AI Huntington and I were boys and whoever you want will stay." I had a together when the question, "Why doesn't Captain great mind to tell him I wanted Captains Grant and Grant leave all the goods here with some one to Burton. watch, and move on?" was asked. We agreed to There was not money enough on earth to make this proposal to him. It was near the time have hired me to stay. I had left home for only a appointed for the meeting. As soon as we were few days and was not prepared to remain so long together, Capt. Grant asked if anyone had thought away; but I remembered my assertion that any of of a plan. We presented ours. Capt. Grant replied, us would stay if called upon. I could not back out, "I have thought of this, but there are no provisions so I selected Thomas Alexander and Ben Hamp- to leave and it would be asking too much of any- ton. I am satisfied that two more faithful men to one to stay here and starve for the sake of these stand under all hardships could not have been goods; besides, where is there a man who would found. stay if called upon." I answered, "Any of us That night we were called together and or- would." I had no idea I would be selected as it ganized as a branch. Dan W. Jones, Thomas Alex- was acknowledged I was the best cook in camp ander .and Ben Hampton were chosen to preside, and Captain Grant had often spoken as though he with J. Laty as clerk. The rest of the company was could not spare me. composed of the following names; John Cooper, That a proper understanding may be had, I John Hardcastle, John Shorton, John Chapel, John will say that these goods were the luggage of a Galbraith, John Ellis, John Whitaker, William season's emigration that these two wagon trains Handy, William Laty, Edwin Summers, Rossiter had contracted to freight, and it was being taken Jenkins, Elisha Manning, Henry Jakeman, George through as well as the luggage of the people pres- Watt, and _ ent. Leaving these goods meant to abandon all that Captain Grant asked about our provisions. many poor families had upon earth. So it was dif- I told him they were scant, but as many were suf- ferent from common merchandise. fering and some dying, all we asked was an equal There was a move made at once to adopt chance with the rest. He told us there would be a this suggestion. Accordingly, next morning store lot of worn out cattle left; to gather them up and

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try to save them. They consisted mostly of year- might chance to kill. The game was not very cer- lings and two-year-old heifers, some one was tak- tain, as the severe storms had driven everything ing through. away. The first move was to fix up the fort. Ac- The storm had now ceased to rage and cordingly Brother Alexander, being a practical great hopes were felt for a successful move. We man, was appointed to manage the business; were daily expecting more help and often won- Brother Hampton was to see about the cattle. dered why it did not come. Next day all hands I followed the train this day to their second pulled out, most of them on foot. encampment and the next day traveled with them. After getting my camp regulated a little There was much suffering, deaths occurring often. and giving some instructions, I got on my horse Eph Hanks arrived in camp from the valley and and rode on to see how the train was moving word that some of the teams that had reached along. All were out of sight when I started. After South Pass and should have met us here, had traveling a few miles, I came upon a lady sitting turned back towards home and tried to persuade alone on the side of the road, weeping bitterly. I Redick Allred, who was left there with a load of noticed she was elegantly dressed and appeared flour, to go back with them. The men who did this strong and well. I asked her what was the matter. might have felt justified; they said it was no use She sobbingly replied, "This is too much for me. I going further, that we had doubtless all perished. I have always had plenty, and have never known will not mention their names for it was always hardships; we had a good team and wagon; my looked upon by the company as cowardly in the husband, if let alone, could have taken me on in extreme. comfort. Now I am turned out to walk in this wind If this had not occurred, it was the inten- and snow. I am determined not to go on but will tion of Capt. Grant to have sent someone down to stay here and die. My husband has gone on and us with a load of flour. As it was, by the time any left me, but I will not go another step." The train was received, the people were in a starving condi- was two or three miles ahead and moving on. I tion, and could not spare it. persuaded her after a while to go on with me. From the third camp, where I saw the last This lady, Mrs. Linforth, and her husband of the brethren, an express was sent on to catch the now live in San Francisco, California. They could returning supplies and continue on to the Valley, not stand the hardships of Zion; but I believe they giving word that the train was coming. I know are friendly to our people. nothing more of them except from reports. As I am After overtaking the train and seeing them writing mainly from my own observations, I will on the move, Captain Grant asked me to go back simply state that after great suffering and much with instructions for the brethren left with me; then assistance (hundreds turning out to help) the emi- to come on next day and camp with them over grants were finally landed in the valley. night. On calling the company together at the I LEFT the company feeling a little down- fort that night, I told them in plain words that if cast, to return to Devil's Gate. It was pretty well there was a man in camp who could not help eat understood that there would be no relief sent us. the last poor animal left with us, hides and all, suf- My hopes were that we could kill game. We had fer all manner of privations, almost starve to death, accepted the situation, and as far as Capt. Grant that he could go with me the next day and overtake was concerned he had done as much as he could the trains. No one wanted to go. All voted to take for us. There was more risk for those who went on their chances. than for us remaining. On taking stock of provisions, we found On returning to camp, I found that the . about twenty day's rations. No salt or bread ex- cattle left were very poor. The weather had moder- cepting a few crackers. There was at least five ated and we hoped to get them on good feed and months of winter before us and nothing much to recruit them a little. Over two hundred head of eat but a few perishing cattle and what game we cattle had died in the vicinity of the fort. Along the

107 Part of Forty YearsAmong The Indians Daniel W. Jones (Rescuer) road each way for a day's travel were carcases. Webb; most of them John Van Cotto We were told This led droves of prairie wolves into our camp, it by Captain Grant to use anything we could find to was almost impossible to keep them off from the make us comfortable. cattle in the day time. We were obliged to corral During the time we were at a loss what to them at night. Once in the day time a small bunch do, men's minds did not run much upon property, was taken and run off in spite of the efforts of the the interest was to save life. One prominent Elder herders to stop them. In fact, it became dangerous became very liberal. He had several large trunks to face these wolves, they were at times almost filled with valuable stuff. He opened his heart and ready to attack men. trunks, making presents to several of the boys from We soon found it would be impossible to the valley of socks, shirts and such things as would save the cattle. Already some twenty-five had died help to make them comfortable. He left his trunks or been killed by the wolves within a week. It was in my rooms, giving me the keys and telling me to decided to kill the rest, some fifty head. A few use anything there was, not to suffer for anything were in living order, but many would have died that could be found, and asked God to bless me. within twenty-four hours. In fact we killed them to I told the boys who remained with me that keep them from dying. We had a first-class butcher we had better not open this man's trunks, that from London, who dressed everything in the best when he got to the valley and had time to think, he style. Everything was saved that we thought might would change his mind and would doubtless be be eaten. We hung the meat up. The poorest of it thinking we were using his goods, and if we we did not expect to eat, but intended to use it for touched anything belonging to him we would be wolf bait further along when the carcases were all accused of taking more than we had. Later occur- devoured, provided we could get traps from the rences proved this to be a good suggestion. Platte bridge, which we afterwards did. We never With the cattle killed that were fit to eat, used our poor beef for wolf bait as we had to eat and what provisions we had on hand, we managed the whole of it ourselves, and finally the hides to live for a while without suffering, except for were all consumed for food. salt. Bread soon gave out and we lived on meat After killing the cattle we had nothing alone. Some of us went out hunting daily but with much to do but fix up the fort and look after four poor success. ponies we had left. Brother Hampton and myself A day or two before Christmas, Ephraim had our saddle horses yet in good order. Hanks and Feramorz Little arrived at the fort, There were plenty of guns and ammuni- bringing the mail from the valley with the follow- tion left with us, also dishes and cooking utensils. ing letter of instructions from President Young: After thoroughly repairing the houses, chinking and daubing them, we overhauled the goods stored PRESIDENT'SOFFICE,GREATSALTLAKECITY, away. While storing the bales and boxes the Dec. 7th, 1856. snow had drifted in among them. There was noth- ing but dirt floors and the goods had been tumbled Brothers Jones, Alexander and Hampton, in in without any regard to order. Having cleaned out charge at Devil's Gate, and the rest of the breth- everything, we took ox yokes, of which there were ren at that place: a great many, and made floors of them and then piled the goods on them. While handling the goods DEAR BRETHREN: Quite unexpectedly to we found some coffee, sugar and fruit, also a roll us we have the opportunity of sending you a few of leather. These we kept out and put in our store suggestions, as Judge Smith, the post master here, room for use. We also found a box of soap and has concluded to forward the eastern mail by candles. These goods were marked F. D. Richards, Brothers Feramorz Little and Ephraim Hanks. Daniel Spencer, John Van Cott, James Furgeson, Being somewhat aware of a natural dispo- William Dunbar, Cyrus Wheelock, and Chauncy sition in many to relax their vigilance after a tem-

108 Part of Forty YearsAmong The Indians Daniel W. Jones (Rescuer) porary and unaccustomed watchfulness, more es- From this letter it is plain to see the pecially in case no particular cause of alarm is of Brother Brigham was not apprised of our condi- frequent occurrence, I feel impressed to write a tion. He afterwards said if he had known our few suggestions and words of counsel to you all. situation he would have relieved us if it had taken You are in an Indian country, few in number, half the men in the valley. I never felt to complain. blockaded by the snows, and far from assistance at The brethren who left us knew but little about this season of the year. Under such circumstances what was left to provision us. The supposition was you can but realize the necessity of all of you be- that the cattle would have furnished us in case ing constantly on the alert, to be firm, steady, so- game could not be killed. ber-minded and sober-bodied, united, faithful and Brother Alexander and I were out for sev- watchful, living your religion. Do not go from your eral days, killing some game on this trip. We were fort in small parties of one, two or three at a time. much disappointed on our return to find that But when game is to be sought, wood got up, or Brothers Hanks and Little had gone on east with- any other operation to be performed requiring you out us seeing them. Brother Little looked around at to travel from under the protection of the fort guns, our supplies, telling the boys to take care of the go in bands of some ten or twelve together, and let hides, that they were better than nothing to eat. them be well armed; and let those who stay by the This proved good advice. stuff be watchful while their comrades are out. Soon after, the Magraw mail company And at all times and under all circumstances let came along under the charge of Jesse Jones. They every person have his arms and ammunitions ready left their coaches, fitted up with packs and started for active service at a moment's warning, so you for the valley, Brother Joseph L Heywood, United cannot be surprised by your foes nor in any way be States Marshal for Utah, was a passenger. They taken advantage of, whether in or out of the fort. went as far as the South Pass. The storm setting in Always have plenty of water about the buildings, so severely they could not face it, they came near and be very careful about fires, and the preserva- freezing to death; it was with great difficulty that tion from damp, fire or other damage of the goods Brother Heywood was kept alive. in your care. Unless buffaloes and other game The day they returned to our camp we had come within a reasonable distance, you had better killed a buffalo some twelve miles distant, it took kill some of the cattle than run much risk in quest all hands three days to get it into camp. This buf- of game. Use all due diligence for the preservation falo I shot at the risk of my life. He was coming of your stock, and try to so ration out your flour as toward me in a snow trail. I lay on the trail with to have it last until we can send you relief, which, nothing to protect me. If I had not killed him he as before stated, will be forwarded as early as pos- would have doubtless have run on to me; but he sible in the spring, but may not reach you until dropped at the first shot. We were about out of May, depending somewhat on the winter snows anything fit to eat and it did not require much and spring weather, of which you will be able to bravery to take the risk, for almost anyone will form an estimate as the season advances. take desperate chances when hungry. We wounded We will send teams to your relief as early two others, that we expected to get, but about the as possible in the spring, and trust to learn that all time we commenced dressing the one killed, there has been well with you and the property in your came on a regular blizzard that lasted several days. care. Brothers Little and Hanks will furnish you We had hard work to save the lives of the men with items of news from the valley, and I will for- getting the meat into camp. ward you some packages of our papers by them. Praying you may be united, faithful and THE MAIL company went down fifty protected, miles to Platte bridge to winter. Marshal Heywood I remain, Your brother in the gospel, decided to remain with us and live or die, as the BRIGHAM YOUNG. case might be, preferring to be with his brethren. There were no provisions to be had at the Bridge,

109 Part of Forty YearsAmong The Indians Daniel W. Jones (Rescuer) for three of us had been down to see if we could only eaten the hides taken from the cattle killed, get supplies. We barely got enough to last us back. but had eaten the wrappings from the wagon- The mountaineers there had some cattle but no tongues, old moccasin-soles were eaten also, and a bread, they lived by hunting. piece of buffalo hide that had been used for a foot Game soon became so scarce that we mat for two months. could kill nothing. We ate all the poor meat; one The day the Indian came was fast-day, and would get hungry eating it. Finally that was all for us fast-day in very truth. We met as usual for gone, nothing now but hides were left. We made a we kept our monthly fast-day. During meeting we trial of them. A lot was cooked and eaten without became impressed that there were some wrongs any seasoning and it made the whole company existing among the brethren in camp that should sick. Many were so turned against the stuff that it be corrected, and that if we would make a general made them sick to think of it. cleaning up, and present our case before the Lord, We had coffee and some sugar, but He would take care of us, for we were there on His drinking coffee seemed to only destroy the appe- business. On questioning some of the company tite, and stimulate for only a little while. One man privately, we found that several had goods in their became delirious from drinking so much of it. possession not belonging to them. When we felt Things looked dark, for nothing remained satisfied all goods were replaced we went en masse but the poor raw hides taken from starved cattle. and cut a hole in the ice on the river. There were We asked the Lord to direct us what to do. The several carcasses of cattle that had died lying near brethren did not murmur, but felt to trust in God. the fort, that the wolves had not devoured. Some We had cooked the hide, after soaking and scrap- of the boys, contrary to counsel, had cut steaks ing the hair off until it was soft and then ate it, from them during the time we were eating the glue and all. This made it rather inclined to stay hides; it made them quite sick. There was a pile of with us longer then we desired. Finally I was im- offal in the butcher shop from the poor cattle pressed how to fix the stuff and gave the company killed. But what looked more tempting than all to advice, telling them how to cook it; for them to starving men was a pile of more than one hundred scorch and scrape the hair off; this had a tendency fat wolf carcasses, skinned, piled up and frozen to kill and purify the bad taste that scalding gave near the fort. They looked very much like nice fat it. After scraping, boil one hour in plenty of water, mutton. Many of the company asked my opinion throwing the water away which had extracted all about eating them. I told them if they would all do the glue, then wash and scrape the hide thor- as I advised we would have a good clean supper of oughly, washing in cold water, then boil to a jelly healthy food; that these carcasses were unclean; and let it get cold, and then eat with a little sugar that we were on the Lord's service, and did not sprinkled on it. This was considerable trouble, but believe He wanted us to suffer so much, if we only we had little else to do and it was better then had faith to trust Him and ask for better. starving. We all became united in this feeling. Ac- We asked the Lord to bless our stomachs cordingly we hauled all these carcasses of cattle, and adapt them to this food. We hadn't the faith to the wolves, also the offal from the store-house and ask him to bless the raw-hide for it was "hard shoved them into the hole cut in the ice, where stock." On eating now all seemed to relish the they floated off out of our reach. We then went feast. We were three days without eating before and washed out our store-house and presented it this second attempt was made. We enjoyed this before the Lord empty, but clean. sumptuous fare for about six weeks, and never had Near sundown the Indian spoken of came the gout. to our quarters. Some of the boys hunted up a In February the first Indian came to our small piece of raw hide and gave it to him. He said camp. He was of the Snake tribe, his people were he had eaten it before. None of us were able to talk located a day's travel up the river. At the time of much with him; we invited him to remain with us his arrival we were out of everything, having not over night. Evening came on and no supper; eight

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o'clock, no word from anyone. And the word had skeletons. been positively given that we should have supper. Some may ask why we did not leave. Between eight and nine o'clock all were sitting There was no time during the winter but what the waiting, now and then good-naturedly saying it attempt would have been certain death to some of was most suppertime. No one seemed disheart- us. The company at no time was strong enough to ened. make the trip to Platte bridge, neither did we wish Bro. Heywood was still with us. All at to abandon our trust that we had accepted with our once we heard a strange noise resembling human eyes wide open to the perils around us. voices down the road. Bro. Heywood rushed out After supper we found there was scarcely exclaiming, "Here comes our supper." The voices enough left for breakfast. Jesse asked what we were loud and in an unknown tongue. Bro. H. proposed doing. One of the mail company, a came back a little frightened saying there was Frenchman, commenced talking with the Indian something strange going on down the road. Sev- explaining our situation to him. He said their camp eral of us, taking our arms, started in the direction was also out of meat; that they were hungry, and of the noise. On getting nearer we recognized the that he was out prospecting for game, as there was voices. The Magraw party under Jesse Jones was none in the neighborhood of their camp; but he making another effort to get through with their thought he could find game the next day if some coaches; they had got stuck in a snow drift and the one would go with him to protect him from the noise we heard was Canadian Frenchmen swearing Crow Indians, who were supposed to be in the di- at their mules. We helped them out and guided rection of the game. This seemed the only show, so them into the fort. It was a bitter cold night but we Jesse decided to "layover" and send out his hunter had good houses with rousing fires. with same pack animals; also ten of our company, After unhitching and turning out Jesse the stoutest and most willing. They, no doubt, said, "I am glad to get here." I replied, "I am as would have fought the whole Crow nation to have glad to see you." "Why are you so glad to see us?" protected our Indian friend. he asked. I told him we had not a mouthful of Late that evening the Frenchman and the anything to eat, nor had we tasted food that day. Indian came into the fort with their animals loaded "Then what are you stopping here for?" I replied, with good buffalo meat. I asked about the boys of "We were waiting for you to bring our supper." He our company who went on foot. The Frenchman laughed and said, "Well you shall have it if it takes answered, "I left them about twenty-five miles the last bite we have got." He gave to our cook all from here roasting and eating bones and entrails; of his provisions. About ten o'clock twenty-six they are all right." They got in next day, each man hungry men sat down to about as thankfully a re- loaded with meat. They were all delighted with the ceived supper as we ever partaken of by mortal Indian, telling how he killed the buffalo with his man. arrows, the Frenchman shooting first and wound- In January when this party passed through ing the animal and the Indian doing the rest. to Platte bridge, I sent word by them to the moun- These Indians of the plains years back taineers there that we would pay a good price for killed a great many buffalo with arrows. They meat brought to us. Two of the best hunters, would stick two arrows into a buffalo's heart, Messrs. Maxim and Plant, made the attempt to get crossing their direction so that as the buffalo ran us meat, but failed, almost starving themselves on these arrows would work and cut his heart almost the hunt. They never reached our fort but returned in two. This would soon bring the poor brute to their homes on the Platte. down; whereas with a single arrow in the heart When Jesse Jones left us going down we they would run a long distance. had but little provisions on hand. Maxim and Plant's failure to reach us with food caused the THE mail company again fitted up with people at Platte bridge to suppose we had all per- packs, leaving their coaches. They took Brother ished. Jesse told me he fully expected to find our Heywood with them. This time making the trip

111 Part of Forty YearsAmong The Indians Daniel W. Jones (Rescuer) successfully. They left all the meat they could time when we had that many men able to stand spare, taking only scant rations with them. very hard service. Sometimes I felt like disregard- Brother Heywood, although very weak in ing counsel and going out to try to get food, or body, manifested the spirit of a hero during the perish in the attempt. But up to this time we had whole time of our suffering. I have always remem- all followed instructions as nearly as possible. bered him with the kindest of feelings. As he Now here was a trial for me. I firmly believed I sometimes remarks "rawhide makes a strong tie." could go on foot to Platte bridge and get some- The Indian went away saying he would thing to save the lives of my comrades. Very few tell his people about us, and if they could find any of the others were able, but all were willing to go meat they would divide. with me. I told them if counsel had to be broken I It did not take long for twenty hungry men would risk no one but myself, and would go alone. to eat up our supplies. About the 4th of March the The boys thought they could live five days before last morsel had been eaten for breakfast. We went starving. So it was arranged that I should start hunting daily, sometimes killing a little small alone next morning for the Platte bridge. I had game, but nothing of account. now been one day without food, it would take two Our provisions were exhausted and we more to reach the bridge, where there were traders, had cleaned up everything before Jesse Jones came as the snow was from eighteen inches to three feet to our relief. We were now in a tight place. There deep. This looked a little hard, but I had fully was a set of harness and an old pack saddle cov- made up my mind to try it. ered with rawhide still on hand, that some of the On arriving in sight of camp we saw a boys considered safe to depend upon for a few number of horses; we knew some one had arrived days, still we had great hopes of getting something but had no idea who it was. A shout of joy rang better. Our faith had been much strengthened by out from our crowd that made the hills ring. All receiving the supplies mentioned. mankind were friends to us then. I often wonder As usual we went out to see what we why people are enemies. My experience in life, could find in the way of game. After traveling with a few exceptions, has been more of the through the snow for several miles at the foot of friendly than warlike nature. I have been fed and the mountains, we saw a drove of mountain sheep. helped by all classes of people, and mankind in They were standing, seemingly entirely off their general are not so bad when properly approached. guard. I was in front and saw the sheep, as I sup- The new arrivals proved to be the first posed before they did me. We dodged down out of company of the Y. X. Express, with William sight. I crept to a large rock, fully expecting to get Hickman in charge. This was the first effort of this meat. When I looked to get a shot the game was firm to send the mail through. Several old ac- gone, I could see it making for the top of the quaintances were along, and of course we were mountain. We watched them for a minute or two rejoiced to see them, especially so when we and they were soon too far for us to follow. My learned they had a good supper for us. Among the heart almost failed me, and I could have cried like party were George Boyd of Salt Lake City and a child, for I knew that nothing was in camp when Joshua Terry of Draperville. we left and our comrades expected us to bring A day or two before their arrival Brother something for supper. Terry had killed a large buffalo and they packed We were convinced that nothing could be the whole of it into our camp. obtained this day by hunting, so we started for I remember about the first thing I did after home. After traveling a few miles we struck the shaking hands, was to drink a pint of strong salty road below Devil's Gate and here we stopped to broth, where some salt pork had been boiled. hold a council. When Hickman's company arrived, some As will be remembered, our instructions of our boys were getting the pack saddle soaked up from Brother Brigham were never to leave the fort ready for cooking the hide covering. Boyd always with less than ten men. There never had been a calls me the man that ate the pack saddle. But this

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