Charles Coulson Rich Sr. (1809 - 1883) Profile

Individual

death-date-qualifier-death

Charles Coulson Rich, Sr.

birth-date-qualifier-birth

Charles Coulson Rich collection; Diaries

Charles Coulson Rich collection; Diaries.

Historical Department journal history of the Church

Historical Department journal history of the Church, 1830-2008, April 15, 1844, Page 1-5.

Historical Department journal history of the Church.

Missionary Department missionary registers, 1860-1959

Missionary Department missionary registers, 1860-1959, April 30, 1860, Vol. 2, Page 1, Line 3.

Missionary Department missionary registers, 1860-1959, April 30, 1860, Vol. 1, Page 1, Line 3.

Missionary Department missionary registers, 1860-1959.

Adelade W. Ridges autobiographical sketch, 1893, 3-4

Adelade W. Ridges autobiographical sketch, 1893, 3-4.

With Pres Riches approval we went to Los Angelas to enable us to get an outfit to go to the Valley in the spring My husband worked at his trade And I worked in the Pines Hotel for our board. My husband bought four mules and a wagon



We went back to San Bardina [Bernardino] to prepare for our journey in the spring



In the spring we started with Pres Lymans’ and Rich’s Company We had a pleasant Journey[.] My husband had a good deal of running after his mules. They had to be turned out at night and herded[.] I used to find him As he brought them up[.] Not having drove team before we used to be about the last to start[.] But we got along all right



And arrived in the Valley safe and sound June 11th 1857

Transcript for Adelade W. Ridges autobiographical sketch, 1893, 3-4

Amasa M. Lyman collection, 1832-1877

Amasa M. Lyman collection, 1832-1877, April 18, 1857, Item Journal, Page 1-20.

Memorandoms of Company that traviled to Utah with Elders Lyman &amp; Rich starting from the, 15th to the 18th of April 1857. Amasa Lyman &amp; Son, Marion, C[harles]. C. Rich &amp; Family, Sidney Tanner, Wm. Mathews &amp; Son, Cuningham[,] Wm. P. Smith[,] John Henry Rollins &amp; Hanah Rollins, &amp; Children &lt;2&gt;[,] Lydia Taylor &amp; 2 Children[.] Elinor Morse &amp; Child, J. Joseph Ridges Wife &amp; Child[,] F. A. Hamond &amp; Family[,] B. Murphy[,] David Williams[,] William Bringhurst &amp; Family[,] Br. Hawke &amp; Son[,] Miles Anderson &amp; Son[,] Phebe Woodworth[,] John Woodworth[,] Timothy Covert[,] Dick a Black Man, Sister Westover[,] Sam[ua]l Smith &amp; Wife[,] John Tate, a, Boy, from India[,] Charles Hardy from Australia traveled with us as far as Biter springs Where he left and returned to Cal.[,] Joseph, Hunt, John King[,] David Savage, Jesse Bishop[,] Wm. Bateman.



April, Saturday, 18th, [18]57. Started for S Lake[.] the Sheriff and party of some 25, men accompanying us Camped in the Cahoon, our heavy Wagons haveing preceded us some some two days with Bro. Riches Family.



(Sundy 19th) Traviled up the Cañon at the Uper Water[.] parted with Br. E. Hanks, whom we Blest before parting for the Acomplishment of his Labours as our General Agent in California while we are absent on our mission to Europe[.] as we passed the Sumit of the Mountain Brs Taylor and Stoe came to us with one of the Gene Mules that had strayed[.] Went to the River Mohave and camped, 1½ ms. from the upper crossing where we found those who had preceded us[.] all well.



(Monday, 20th) to day did not move camp in the morning[.] Brs. Mathews &amp; Tanner Came into camp they haveing camped back, ½ mile[.] dureing the day one of Br Riches Mules got Injured so as to be unfit for the journey, he was force to replace hin by purchaseing one from Br Norman Taylor.



Tuesday 21st This Morning one of My Mules had gone back on acount of which we still remained in Camp my Son Marion goeing back for the Mule[.] this Morning our visiting party left us to return[,] among them were my Wife Maria and Daughter Matild and husband, Amasa &amp; Daughter Josephine, we said our adieus and sat down to write the same, the only Death reported in Camp was that of a Shanghigh [Shanghai] Cock belonging Br. Rich[.] cause of Death unknown[.] this evening Marion returned with the Mule.



Wednesday 22and, This morning left Camp at 8 o'clock[.] traviled, 18 ms, camped at 5½ o'clock, with the old setlers the [.nt.] some grass and good water, to day we were joined by Brs. Bringhurst[,] Hamond &amp; Savage. our Co. is now full, numbering 26, effective men



(Thursday, 23rd) Left camp at, 7½ oclock traviled 16 ms, and camped at 4 oclock an twenty mts. weather very warm[.] Slightly relieved by a plesant wind, feed and water plenty



(Friday 24th, Laid by on acount of some stock that ran away, in the evening the Boys returned with the stock



(Saturday 25th) this morning some stock gone, we moved our Wagons, 4 ms, Br. Mathews and son went in search of the missing Stock[.] Camped at 12 oclock[.] good water and feed[.] just at dark Brs Mathews returned with the Stray Stock[.] the wind high and very cold



(Sunday 26th) Left Camp at 7½ oclock[.] traviled 12 ms,[.] Camped at the lower camp on the Mohave at, 2, oclock[.] had some Indians with us from the Colorado. The weather Cool and pleasant.



(Monday 27th,) Left camp at 10, oclok[.] passed over the Sumit towards Bit[t]er Springs and camped at, 1, oclock in the morning



(Tuesday 28) started about 6 oclock and arrived at the springs at, 10, oclock, where we meet a party from Salt Creek who were fleeing from the Phantom of their own discontent (a wearysome and fruitless journey in evry thing but their disappointment) remained here through the day and Improved the watering places[.] the weather rather warm, although coller at night



(Wednesday 29th) Left Camp at 3½ oclock, traviled until 12, oclock and camped[.] feed our stock and tied up until morning.



(Thursday, 30,th,) started at 6 oclock and traviled about, 10, ms, to the parting of the roads[.] there parted with Br Rich and party who were goeing the old road by Salt springs and we went to Kingston spring where we arrived with our wagons at 10 oclock[.] watered and feed and tied up for the night[.] the water tolerable good, feed none.



(May, 1st, Friday) remained at the spring and drove our stock to the grass about. 2 ms, dureing the day some Indians were seen on the hill[.] tied up at nigh[t]



(Saturday, 2,and) at one oclock evening we left the spring and traviled until 9 oclok when we halted an feed then traviled all night



(Sunday, 3,d) stoped at 5, oclock in the morning[.] feed and B[r]eakfasted and traviled on[.] arrived at the Mountain Springs, 5½ oclock[.] there we were meet by a party of the Lamanites one of whom had a package of let[t]ers for Br Rich which he delivered to me after which we regaled the party on a Kettle of Mush which the[y] disposed of in a summary way. Tied up our stock at night and feed grain as there was no grass



(Monday, 4,th) May, this morning left Camp at, 8, oclock arrived at the Cot[t]onwood spring, 4,½ oclock[.] found plenty of feed and water[.] employed the natives to herd our stock



(Tuesday, 5,th, May) to day laid by to rest our stock[.] the weather cool, and pleasant[.] the Chief and family with us[.] In the evening Jim came to us from the Mountain Spr[i]ng but Brought no news of Br Rich for whom he had a Let[t]er:



(Wednesday, 6,th, May) Still waited for the pa[r]ty behing [behind.] win[d] high and weather cool[.] had the Chief Brigham, with us



(Thursday, 7th, May) Still remained in camp[.] wind still high, in the evening at, 3, oclock Br Rich and party came in and Brought in two disabled wagons one Minus a wheel, one an axel tree, and Sister Taylor was verry sick. Aside from this the party were in good health[.] They left one Animal belonging to John Woodworth.



(Friday, 8,th May) To day repaired the wagons and Nursed the sick wooman, the wind had lulled[.] the weather pleasant[.] the sick some what improved



(Saturday, 9,th May) Left camp at, 7,½ oclock[.] reached Losvegas [Las Vegas] at, 7, oclock (ev[ening.]) found the fort a Desolation[,] a sad monument of the fol[l]y of poor short sighted selfish man who can sacrifice the intrests of a Kingdom and people on the alter of personal selfishness.



(Sunday, 10,th May) Laid by and repaired wagons and shod some stock[.] the wind was high



(Monday, 11,th May) in the morning the Ox teams started and a little later the General with his mules, and at 2½ oclock we followed them, halted for super before dark and then traviled on until, 2, oclock Morning when we came to the camp of Br. Rich and party[.] about this time they learned that some Indians had shot one ox belonging to Br. Hawk[.] they took up their teams and traviled on with us.



(Tuesday, 12,th May) This morning halted at, 7, oclock for Breakfast[.] traviled on[.] arrived at Mud[d]y at 5 oclock[.] found a large party of the natives awaiting our arrival[.] the last night we traviled all night not sleeping any.,



(Wednesday, 13,th May) Left the Mu[d]dy and traviled to the high ground and camped[.] had good grass[.] after we had camped Br Joseph Hyde and party came in on their way to California, they had 2 wagons and 7 men,



(Thursday 14th May) Left camp and traviled to the Reo [Rio] Virgin, Camped about, 1, oclock had the Chief Sosho and Band with us[.] they herded our stock for us, and returned them to us in the morning.



(Friday, 15,th May) Traviled about 12,ms and camped at, 3,oclock with the Chief Isaac, and his Band with whom we had a friendly talk, and had them to heard our stock,



Saturday 16th Left Camp at 7 Oclock <s>arrived at Cottonwood or Beaver dam at ha</s> Camped at 3 Oclock[.] distance 12 miles[.] <s>at this point</s>



Sunday May 17th &lt;Bro Lyman left us to visit the settlements on the Rio Virgin &amp; Santa Clara.&gt; Left camp at 7¼ Oclock[.] Camped at the Beaver-dam at 4½ O clock[.] found good water.



The water of <s>the</s> Rio virgin up which we have been traveling for the last four days modestly rivals in its arromatic taste the water of the far fame a Bitter springs.



Monday May 18th Left camp at 7½ O clock[.] Camped in the canñon at 6 O clock[.] cloudy all day[,] a little rain in the night[.] Distance traveled 13 miles[.] Last night sister Hammon&lt;d&gt; presented her lord a daughter



Tuesday May 19th left Camp at 7 O clock[.] camped on the Santa Clara 12½ O clock. here we met Armstong &amp; Party—Traveled 3 miles to the cave[.] Distance 14 miles



Wednesday 20th Left camp at 8 O clock[.] halted at noon and partook of some slight refreshments. Camped at 5 O clock at last crossing of Santa Clara[.] Distance traveled 17 miles.



Thursday May 21st Left camp at 8 O clock[.] halted at noon[.] camped at 6 O clock on the mountain meadows[.] Distance traveled 14 mile



This evening at 6¼ O clock Brother Cha[rle]s Rich's little Daughter Tunis died, after an illness. of about six hours



Friday May 22 Some of the brethren were busy all the morning making a coffin for the child



Left camp at Eleven O clock[.] halted at painter creek to Dine[.] camped at 5 O clock[.] Distance traveled 12 miles



(Saturday 23, May) To day we arrived in Cedar City, where we tarried until Tuesday,



&lt;(Sunday, 24,th May) To day we preached to the people who seemed to enjoy the spirit of their Faith&gt;



(Monday, 25th May) laid by for repairs of some of Br. Riches wagons



(Tuesday, 26,th May) traviled to and Camped on Su[m]mit Creek[.] Br Rich and Myself went Parrowan [Parowan] and preached to the people



(Wednesday, 27,th May) we travilled to and Camped on little Creek and Br Rich and myself preached to people of Read [Reed] Creek



(Thursday 28th May) traviled over the Divide and Camped in the Canyon, had good Grass but no water only what we Carried along in our Wagons,



(Friday, 29,th, May) we passed the Settlement on Beaver to whom we preached and while here the mail from Cal[ifornia] arrived[.] we traviled to and Camped on Indian Creek,



(Saturday, 30,th May) This morning I left the Camp and traviled with the Mail party to Salt Lake, where



we arrived on the (3d of June,) and found my Family all well.

Transcript for Amasa M. Lyman, Journal, 1857 April 18-July 2, 1858 January 11-May 7, 1862 December 8-1863 April 15, 1-20

Amasa M. Lyman collection, 1832-1877.

Charles C. Rich diary

Charles C. Rich diary, February 1846.

Transcript for Charles C. Rich diary, 1846 February-1847 October, 7-16

Charles C. Rich diary.

Deseret News

Brief Dialogues

"Brief Dialogues", Deseret News, December 25, 1852, Page 2.

December 19th, Elders Amasa Lyman, C. C. Rich, R. R. Hopkins, and others, arrived from San Bernardino.



They met Elder H. G. Sherwood, and the Elders going on Missions 200 miles this side of San Bernardino.

Transcript for "Brief Dialogues," Deseret News, 25 December 1852, [114]

General Items

"General Items", Deseret News, December 25, 1852, Page 2.

Elders Rich &amp;c., left San Bernardino, on the 16th of November: Names of Company.



Amasa Lyman, Lady and Son; C. C. Rich, R. R. Hopkins, Sterling Driggs, William Lewis, Thomas Mathews, Taylor Crosby, William G. Young, Andrew Moffit, Ezra Barnum, Ezra Parish, John Garr, Joseph Aldredge, from the Mines; John Kimball, San Francisco; John Murdock, from Australia; Benjamin F. Grouard, and Julian Moses, Society Islands.



Elder John Murdock had to stay in Parowan in consequence of the delicate state of his health, and will remain there until Spring, except sent for with a covered wagon or carriage by his friends.



Elders Grouard and Hopkins, will give us an account of matters in the Society Islands, and San Bernardino, in our next.

Transcript for "General Items," Deseret News, 25 December 1852

Elder Charkes C. Rich

"Elder Charkes C. Rich", Deseret News, June 17, 1857, Page 8.

Elder Charles C. Rich, with a small company, arrived from San Bernardino on the 9th inst.

Transcript for Blurb), Deseret News, 17 June 1857, 120

Copy of a Letter Written to the Saints in San Bernardino, California

Amasa Lyman and Charles C. Rich, "Copy of a Letter Written to the Saints in San Bernardino, California", Deseret News, January 8, 1853, Page 2.

Last Crossing of the Mohave, November 21st 1852.
Dear Brethren and Sister:
We have been prospered on our journey since we left you. We are comfortably camped at the last crossing of the Mohave. Since we left you and the many cares that surrounded us, we think of many things that we would be glad to impress upon your minds, touching the interests of the Saints; but only expect to mention a few. Situated as you are with persons coming from different parts of the world we would recommend that all follow the example of the saints that came with us, and renew their covenants by being baptized, and especially all those that have not come recommended from organized branches. We feel particular upon this subject as it will enable you to discharge your duties and keep iniquity out of the Church. All persons that love the truth and feel the influence of the Holy Spirit will see the propriety of this strict course. 
Again we would recommend that you would appoint Teachers, persons who are new of experience, to visit each family to teach and impress upon them their duty as Saints, to see that there is no hardness nor evil speaking that all may come to the communion and offer an acceptable offering to the Lord; if persons abscat themselves from meeting to inquire after them, and remind them to be faithful in meeting with the Saints. For be assured that this is the way to retain and enjoy the Holy Spirit. We were not idle while we were with you, but declared the truth as it was manifested to us, and trust that it has been treasured up in honest hearts. We would impress upon the Saints to hearken to counsel as well in our absence as when we are with you. David Seely is President of that branch of the Church; upon him and his counselors rest that responsibility, William Crosby is Bishop and on him and his counselors rest that responsibility and we expect the saints to sustain them as they would us, by their prayers and faith; also every officer in his place. Again we would recommend that you organize prayer meetings this winter and meet together to call on the name of the Lord and speak as you are moved upon by the Holy Spirit to the edification of each other. 
November 24th We are new camped on Salertus [Salaratus] creek, where we met bro. Sherwood's train and the missionary company of elders bound for the nations and islands of the sea. We have layed by today and preached to them at noon, and again at night; they all feel fine, and so do we. We want you to receive these missionaries, not as strangers, but as brothers. There are about thirty eight of them; the brethren can take one in a family, and give them homes while circumstances require them to stay. This would be our feelings and wishes.
Bro. Sherwood comes recommended by the Presidency, and will be able to give particulars concerning those with him. He will join with you in building up and establishing the truth. 
If the brethren can buy part or all the property the missionaries wish to sell, and pay them a fair price, and by so doing forward them upon their missions, we would be glad. As to your farming, we want all to be satisfied. If the field is not large enough to satisfy the brethren, let them enlarge it, for it is best to have plenty of work on hand. One thing more—that is, we do not want you to let our names be brought into disrepute by letting our notes and premises fall which we made before we left. We must now close; and feel to invoke the rich blessings of the new and everlasting covenant to rest upon you in the name of Jesus; amen.

Transcript for Lyman, Amasa and Charles C. Rich, "Copy of a Letter Written to the Saints in San Bernardino, California, by Amasa Lyman and Charles C. Rich," Deseret News, 8 Jan. 1853, [2]

Remarks

"Remarks", Deseret News, June 24, 1857, By Elder Amasa Lyman.

<center xmlns:its="http://www.w3.org/2005/11/its" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">REMARKS 
By Elder Amasa Lyman, Bowery, Sunday morning, June 7, 1857. 
─ 
REPORTED BY J. V. LONG 
─</center>



Brethren and sisters, I am happy this morning to enjoy the opportunity of meeting with you again, the reasons why can be appreciated by most of you.



I do not feel, this morning, much disposed to preach, but I have been told that the people would like to hear me. Well, I am glad to see you, brethren and sisters, as I have already said I am happy to be here, I am happy to see you, and also to see the continuance of unmistakeable evidences around me of the progress of the work of God.



I do not know that there is much that I might say in relation to my coming here that would be interesting, though there were some things connected with my visit to the settlements south of here, some of the most recent that have been made, that might be interesting to many who are before me this morning.



From the commencement of our journey, which was on the 18th of April that we left San Bernardino, we encountered nothing but those vicissitudes that are common in journeying.



When we came within twelve miles of where the road that we travel leaves the Rio Virgin, I there left the company that I was traveling with and in company with Elder David Savage and an Indian guide I crossed over the mountain, between the California road and Santa Clara and in this we found a great deal of labor. We were assured by our guide that there was a good road, and that we could take our mules along, to be sure they told us that we could not take our wagons. We were desirous to visit those brethren, for the Presidency had expressed their wish for us to do so as we came along. Br. Rich was confined to the train with his family, which accounts for me going with but one man and a guide. When we had performed a part of the day's journey and had passed over a ridge which we had to cross, we concluded that we were getting along finely, and that the words of our indian friend were true in relation to its being a very good way to travel. But when we came to enquire the course we had next to take we learned that instead of passing up a 'gravel wash,' our road as indicated by our guide wound into the face of the most forbidding of the hills that were in the way; our guide indicated by his stick that we commenced at this wash, and then wound up the mountain until his stick rested against the highest points on the mountain in front of us! I did not think much of backing out, but I was well satisfied that if I had seen the mountain before I had started that I should not have undertaken the trip.



We went along and by hard labor succeeded in climbing up the mountain. My mule helped herself along, and I got up the best way I could. I would climb 50 or 60 yards on my hands and feet, and then I would have to stop and rest.



We made the tolisome [toilsome] trip over the high mountain which I before alluded to, and then we were gratified by the assurance that there was nothing to do but to climb over another about as bad as the one we had just succeeded in surmounting; and night was upon us. This surmounted we found ourselves traveling down the gentle wash leading as we subsequently learned to Santa Clara. And after feeding to our guide some bread and water, the last we had, we asked which way to Jacob's 'Wickyup.' Our guide pointed to the left, and our attention was called to a huge frill of rocks extending upwards as far as the eye could reach in the doubtful light of the evening. There was a moon, but it was hid from us by the clouds, and hence we had to have torch light, which our guide provided. He then commenced winding his way up amongst the rocks, and we followed along until br. Savage's mule refused to go up any further, and she would have fallen to the bottom had not br. Savage prevented it by his timely exertion.



We went to the foot of the hill and concluded that we would wait there for daylight, and we lay down, but we had no blankets, no food, but the accommodations of the place were very good; we lay down and slept from our excessive weariness, until morning.



The next morning we succeeded in climbing the hill, and you may judge of our gratification when we reached the summit we could see that had we traveled a few rods down the wash we could have reached the summit; by a gentle ascent and that had we traveled down the wash we should have come to the Santa Clara below br. Ham[b]lin's Fort one mile.



I do not allude to this because it is particularly interesting, but still there was a truth in it that was not without its profit to me, and that was that a guide without understanding was almost worse than no guide at all.



But after all, when we reached br. Hamlin's, where we arrived just as they were getting up, we were kindly received and well treated, and made to feel happy. We refreshed ourselves and rested through the day. We found an excellent feeling existing among the Indians, and br. Hamlin has great influence amongst them. The brethren have built themselves a small stone Fort, in which they are pretty safe, much more so than in one made of adobies. Their homes are rough, excepting their Fort which is a good one.



We found a marked difference between the indians at this point and those we had encountered before reaching there. The first we met were in the region of Los [Las] Vegas: they were all hungry and nearly starved, but this was not the case with those at the Santa Clara, they were all fed and clothed, and consequently felt well.



The field crops planted there look well. Br. Hamlin had planted some cotton which was not looking very well, perhaps in consequence of the rude manner which they had adopted in their planting, for they had adopted the Indian manner of planting, which the cotton growers told me was not a good one.



From the Fort on Santa Clara we past over ten miles to the Rio Virgin. We found the company of cotton growers in good health and excellent spirits. They were engaged in getting out the water and making ditches for the cotton. They succeeded, about the same time we arrived, in finding a good pasture, plenty of water and an inexhaustible amount of cedar. The men with whom I conversed about the soil, expressed their opinion that from the appearance, and resemblance of the soil to that in Texas, that it will produce good cotton.



I gave them what good advice was suggested to my mind, told them as many good things as I could think of, bid them farewell and came away.



I will here mention one thing that br. Knight told me; he said that he had made an exploration from there to the point on the old California road called the Beaver Dam, to find a way for a road, and had found a good chance for one. To make a road in the direction explored would only require the labor of ten men with teams for two days, and then this road will pass the cotton farm and intersect the present California road at Coal creek, by way of Harmony from Cotton creek.



I came to Harmony and preached there and then came on to Coal creek and preached there, as has been my custom whenever I have traveled that way for several years past. At the last named place we waited on our train which came in some two or three days subsequent to our arrival. I found the brethren there laboring to make iron; they were putting up the engine, and they confidently asserted that there would be iron made there, and that too, of a quality that will meet the wants of the people.



From Coal creek I passed over to Parowan and preached to the people there, and found the good Spirit among them.



We had no particular bad luck, that I know of on the way, except that br. Rich's family were afflicted, and one of his children died. This was all the ill luck that befell us up to the time I left camp a week ago yesterday. When the mail overtook us I got into the wagon and rode with the mail, which I supposed would be a slight relief from the mode of traveling which I had practiced while with the train. I traveled with the mail until I arrived in this city which was on last Wednesday evening, since which time I have been resting.



As I said when I arose I do not feel like preaching, but I would simply ask you as a part of Father's family, does our courage increase? Does our valor increase so that we can live for the truth, for our religion? It is a common thing with the world for them to be complimented for their bravery. And this matter of dying for the truth, dying for a man's opinions is a common thing. Men have died for their opinions when those opinions were erroneous, but if it is truth that men die for, it is all the better, but it occurs to me that it is better for us to live our religion, and let the dying take care or [of] itself, for I find that it is a very easy matter for an individual to die. Men can with much less faith and less trouble of life, place themselves in a position to get killed than to so purify themselves, their actions, and by regulating themselves by the truth and actually to live their religion in the legitimate spirit of the gospel.



This is what I consider to be the greatest, the noblest thing for the Saints to do. It is this that has brought all the joy to my mind, that has fixed the principles of the gospel upon my mind; it is this that has brought all the blessings that I have

Transcript for Amasa Lyman, "Remarks," Deseret News, 24 June 1857, 123

Deseret News.

Francis A. Hammond journals

Francis A. Hammond journals, February 1856.

Apr—18th 1857—To day we left San Berardio [Bernardino] and commenced our journey for Utah—Bro B. loaned us a pair of mules and his little Wagon—Bros. Lyman and Rich also set out for the valley—they had some fifty men to escort them over to the Mohave [Mojave] River—



Mo—May 18th 1857—Cottonwood Springs. Santa Clara River—this morning at about 6 a.m. my wife gave birth to a fine little girl. she had a good time and travled all day with the Co. the Lord has greatly blest us in all things. We named the babe Mary Mozell [Moiselle]—we have had a long and tedious passage across the Deserts—I never was more weary of a land trip—The Indians have been kind to us—the feed and water we found good—17 Wagons composed our company—I came the old route with Br. Rich—part of the Co. went the Kingston road with with Bro. Lyman—that is the best road—Bro. Rich lost a little girl at the Mountain Meadows—



Tues. June 18th 1857—About 4 p.m. to day we arrived at Br. D. Brintons on Big Cotton Wood [Cottonwood]—We were most joyfuly received by our friends—O how thankful we feel to once more see the faces we love and again mingle in the society of the mountain Saints—Bro. D. Savage loaned us his mules and Wagon from Cedar City—May my Father who art in heaven reward him an hundred fold for his extreme kindness to me and mine[.] he was a friend in need



Bro. Bringhurst' family was uncomfortable in their large Wagon, having an Iron Thrasher in it so we gave up a little Wagon to them at Cedar City—I feel grateful to Bro. B. also for all his kindness to me[.] may the Lord reward him—

Transcript for Francis A. Hammond journals, 1856 February-1857 June

Francis A. Hammond journals.

George Benjamin Wallace Emigrating Company journal

George Benjamin Wallace Emigrating Company journal, June 1847.

Transcript for George Benjamin Wallace Emigrating Company journal, 1847 June-September

George Benjamin Wallace Emigrating Company journal.

Historical Department journal history of the Church, June 21, 1847, Page 7.

Moses, Julian, Autobiography, 66

Moses, Julian, Autobiography, 66.

Sept. 20. Left San Pedro for San Bernadino and arrived on the 25th. I staid a few weeks at San Bernadino and started on the 16 of Nov. for great Salt Lake in company with General Rich[,] Amasa Lymanand a number of others[,] about 18 in number, mostlypackers with a good number of mules[.] I rode a mule and packed another. Slept on the ground,we had a pleasant time until we reached IronCounty. We there found considerable snow and coldweather and from that time onward we were overtakenby a number of severe snow storms and cold weather,the snow being so deep in many places as to renderour progress very slow and toilsome.
We arrived at Salt Lake on the 18th [of] Dec., 1852 having been gone from home almost 3 years. I found my wife in good health and spirits and anxiously awaiting myreturn and was welcomed by all friends and acquaintences.

Transcript for Moses, Julian, Autobiography, 66

Murdock, John, Autobiography [n.d.], 104, 108-9

Murdock, John, Autobiography [n.d.], 104, 108-9.

I here bought a mule and horse and obtained a fitout.
Nov. 16th in company with bros. A. Lyman and C. C. Rich and company; we commenced to journey for Salt Lake City being 18 of us in company beside bro. Lyman's wife.
24th We had arrived at the agosha or Saleratus creek 200 miles from San Bernardino where we met a company of Elders from 30 to 40. going on Missions. 9 or 10 for Australia[.] Bro. Farnham and Bro. Wm. Hyde to preside over the Australian Mission. And I gave Bro. Wm. a letter of recommend as follows.
Journeying at Saleratus creek Nov. 24th 1852.
Beloved Brethren and Sisters—composing the Church of Jesus Christ of L.D.S. in the British Australasian Isles—greeting—receive Bro. Wm. Hyde as myself: For he is some of the first fruits of my labors in the Minestry; and I claim him as my own Son in the gospel. I have full confidence in him both as to carracter &amp; ability: minister to his wants as you did to me and God will bless you John Murdock Elder
25th This morning, Bro. Richard Ballentyne with others of the Missionary company, very reluctantly gave me the parting hand: Tho they were in good Spirits for their mission and I blessed them in the name of the Lord. We had been here two nights and one day, and we arrived at Coall creek in Iron Co. Decr. 6th
And I was very we[a]ry, and I stayed here two nights. And on the 8th I rode 18 miles a lone to Parowan: But was not able to persew the journey with them, and remained with the Church here for a time to gain Strength. 
. . . Now I am returning twenty five thousand miles travel Australia where to I did go. My mission on those far Isles to preach the plain gospel Even at three score years anew (previous lines are part of a poem written by John Murdock about his mission) 
After visiting and preaching with the Church in Parowan till Jan. 5th 1853, I again renewed my journey for home in company with two wagons and four brethren. Bro. Urban Stewart carried my trunk. And after a tedious six days travel through snowdrifts arrived at Filmore 96 ½ miles from Pariwon. 
I arrived on the tenth but left the teems 12 miles back on corn creek; but they came up next day. 
We remained here till the 17th, resting the teems. At which time they moved on, and 
on the 18th I started with my horse and mule, traveled 12 miles, overtook the teems at cedar springs. We traveled 3 miles further and camped in a Snowdrift, and melted snow in our coffeepot and frying pan to give drink to our animels.
19th. Drove five miles to round Valley and found good feed.
 20th drove fifteen miles to the Severe river and watered freely for the first time in three days. And we then drove about 8 miles and camped. 
21st I left the wagons to go on to Salt creek it being 20 miles. I road two miles to Chicken creek. And found a camp of the brethren; and my son Orrice with a wagon and horses cumming to meet me. We then hanted till bro Stewart came up, and Orrice took in my trunk. We then persewed our journey home being 80 miles
where we arrived Sunday 23rd after an absence of two years lacking 47 days.
I found my family in Utah Valley, near dry creek 30 miles South of G.S.L. City enjoying tollerable health: But my youngest Son Brigham had died 19 days before my arrival day Jany. 4th. 12 Oclock at night, of but 4 day sickness of scarlet fever: Being three years, four months, and fifteen days old. 
25th I went with my son Orrice to G.S.L. City stayed overnight with Elder P. P. Pratt. 
26th Visited President B Young and some others of the brethren. . . .
When I started on my mission to Australia I left the principal part of what little property I had with my son Orrice; and he was to take care of my family; . . .
After a tedious passage of 125 days on the sixth of October I arrived in San Francisco, and on the 26th at San Bernardino. 
Nov. 16th Started with Elders A Lyman, C.C. Rich and Company for G.S.L. City. 
I arrived in Parowan Dec. 8th But found I was not able to continue my journey with the company, and stoped till Jan. 5th 1853. 
I again started with Urban Stewart who carried my trunk; and three other brethren, and after a very tedious travel through snow drifts 
on the 23rd Inst. I arrived near Dry creek, Utah Valley where I found my wife and family in tolerable health, all that were alive.
My eldest son met me 80 miles out: But my youngest had died 49 days before I arrived, of four days sickness. He was three years four months and fifteen days old. I had been absent two years lacking forty seven days, had traveled about 25,000 miles by land and sea: Having done my duty and no more. And tho I should never have the opportunity to again bare my testimony to him, I feel my skirts are clear from blood of this generation. I went as far as I could, preached all I could, and when I could go no farther, I sent others according to Book of D. and C. sec 4 [verse] 10.
I thank my Father in Heaven, that he has strengthened and preserved me to again return to my family and friends, on my native land of Zion; where I desire to dwell with my brethren the Saints; and do what little good I can in my great weakness of body, and trembling of limbs, until I can enjoy what blessings are for me to enjoy in the house of the Lord, built in the top of the Mountains; and from henceforth dwell where ever my Father in Heaven pleases is my desire March 18th 1853 John Murdock

Transcript for Murdock, John, Autobiography [n.d.], 104, 108-9

Murdock, John, Journal [ca. 1830-1859], 201-4

Murdock, John, Journal [ca. 1830-1859], 201-4.

Nov. 16
th
 Commenced to journey with Brothers C. C. Rich & A. Lyman & Co. for G[reat]. S[alt]. L[ake]. City[.] 18 in company besides Br. A. wife[.] camped 12 M[iles] up Cahoon Pass 
17th Crossed the Summit &amp; camped 1 m[ile] below
18th Traveled 30 m &amp; camped 10 m down the Mohave
19th 26 m. down the Mohave
20th 20 m. to where we left the Mohave
21st 35 m. to Bitter Springs
22nd 45 m. across the Desert to Salt Springs 
23rd 14 m. to Nagotha or Salaratas [Salaratus] creek[.] met Elder H. G. Sherwood &amp; Co. &amp; the Misionery [Missionary] Co. &amp; camped
24th Spent the day in camp with the Brethren[.] <s>25th</s> I gave Br. Wm. Hyde a letter of introduction to the Church in Australia. 
25th Br. Richard Ballentyne with others of the missionary co. verry reluctantly gave me the parling hand tho they were in good Spirits for their mission[.] their company consisted of from 30 to 40[,] 9 or 10 for Australia[.] I gave them my blessing[.] We watered at Resting Spring &amp; camped within 6 m of Stoomp Springs
26th to the mountain Spring found Snow but no feed
27th Vagies [Vegas] we reached at midnight
28th Middle of 50 m Desert
29th Reached the Muddy by 4 Oclock PM
30th Camped on the Rio Virgin 
Dec. 1st &amp; &lt;2nd&gt; at the upper crossing of the Rio Virgin 
3rd Camped at Santa Clarra [Clara]
4th Camped near the head of the Santa Clara [Clara]
5th Crossed the rime [rim] of the bason [basin] &amp; camped at Willow Creek
6th Arived at Coal Creek where is a colony of our brethren for Iron making 
I stayed with Br. Jonathan Pugmire two nights[.] he <s>sought</s> &lt;put on&gt; two shoes on my horse &amp; one on my Mule &amp; I paid him one Dollar
8th I went to Parowan 14 miles found the brethren there preparing to travel on but I was not &lt;abel&gt; 
9th The brethren Rich, Lyman &amp; Co. traveled on but I remained with the Brethren in Paro&lt;wan&gt; til 
Jan. 5th 1853. I started in Company with four Brethren &amp; two wagons[.] Br Urban Stewart having but one yoak of Oxen carread [carried] my trunk of 70 lbs. Brs. Broomhead &amp; Williams had two yoak. 
I arrived at Philmore [Fillmore] on the 10th but left the teams 12 miles back at corn creek. 
Philmore is 96½ m from Parowan[.] We remained here resting the teams till the 17[.] they started with the teams. 
18th I again Started to go through the Snow drifts[.] travled 12 m &amp; overtook the teams[.] they yoked &amp; we travled 3 m &amp; camped in a Snow drift
19th Drove 5 m to Round valley[,] verry good feed 
20th 15 m to Severe [Sevier] River &amp; watered for the first time in 3 days except what Snow we melted[.] We then traveled within two miles of Chicken creek. 
21st We were within 20 m of our Brethren on Salt Creek &amp; I left the wagons to travel to the settlement &amp; met my son Orrice at Chicken Creek with wagon &amp; horses coming to meet me[.] we waited til the waggons came up &amp; got my trunk[.] We then pursued our journey home which was over some 80 m[ile]s 
Where we arrived Sunday 23rd after an absence of two years lacking 47 days[.] found my family all alive but one &amp; enjoying a comfortable degree of health. My youngest Son Brigham had died the 4th Instant 12 Oclock at night of but 4 days Sickness of Scarlet fever being 3 y[ears], 4 m[onths], 15 d[ays] old.

Transcript for Murdock, John, Journal [ca. 1830-1859], 201-4

Rich, Charles Coulson, Diary

Rich, Charles Coulson, Diary, Vol. 8.

Satturday 5th I started at ten for the Valley in co with six Brethren[,] the rest having gone over the mountain[.] we went to pleasant Valley 30 mil[e]s[.] staed all night
Sunday the 6th we went to camp creek 35 mils
monday 7th we went to Lake Valley 40 miles
Tuesday 8th we started early[,] overtook Pomroy and co at the foot of the 2 mountain[.] we went on[.] it snowed fast 2 hours[.] we camped with the co in carson 40 miles
Wednesday 9th we sig[n]ed up and started out[.] traveled 10 m[.] <s>46</s> &lt;51&gt; in co
Thursday 10th we traveled 25 mils and camped on Carson River
Friday 11th we traveled 30 miles and camped on Carson 
Satturday 12 traveled 30 mils and camped on Carson River 
Sunday 13th we traveled <s>3</s> 4 mils and camped on River for feed[.] Lay buy and rested to prepare for the Desert.
Monday 14th Started across the Desert at 11 oclock[.] the wind blew verry hard and the Dust blew so thick that we could not see our animals and we stoped till late and went 5 mils and staed all night[.] 20 miles from carson about 50 animals run back[.] Several Packs went back[.] Camp scattered
Tuesday 15th sent 3 men back to the river[.] rest of the camp went on and camped at the Sink[.] in the evening the 3 men came up with all the animals except 12 head[.] one or two packs Lost
Wednesday 16th traveled 20 mils and camped at the meddows
Thursday 17th traveled 20 mils and camped on the river[.] Indians Smokes to be seen ahead
Friday 18th traveled 25 mils and camped on the river
Satturday 19th traveld 20 mils and camped on the river[.] Still Smokes to be seen and tracks in the road
Sunday 20th traveled 25 mils[.] Indians to be seen along the river apeared hostile[.] Some shot at
Monday 21st traveled 25 mils[.] Smokes Indians plenty to be seen
Tuesday 22nd traveled 25 mils[.] Indians and smokes to be seen some fireing[.] ten horss got of the Indians by O P Rockwell[,] Tim Goodall and Doc Stoddard
Wednesday 23rd traveled 25 mils[.] Indians bad[.] some fireing[.] Camped near Stoney Point
Thursday 24th Started[.] aftr traveling 2 or 3 mils met two men on foot[.] one by the name of Abraham Bradshaw the other [blank space] we took them in and the[y] came back with us[.] traveled 25 mils
Friday 25 after traveling 2 mils at the crossing of the river we found 3 men murdered &lt;by Indians&gt; Stirped naked who had been companions of the two we had met names George Foresyth, Richard Lewis and Joel [blank space]. these men gave account of 3 men ahead and two be hind which is no doubt killed by the Indians[.] we sank these boddies in a deep hole of watter having no tools to dig grave[.] traveled <s>t</s> 20 mils camped
Satturday 26th traveled 25 <s>f</s> mils and camped[.] Indians smoke to be seen some Indians also
Sunday 27th traveled 25 mils and camped[.] Still Smokes and Indians to be seen
Monday 28th traveled 20 and camped on a small creek 8 mils from the last crossing of monjs river. at 11 o clock in the evening O P Rockwell and Tim Goodall both fired at some indians which was creeping into camp[.] one Indian killed on the ground
Tuesday 29th traveled about 30 mils and camped on a small creek near feed
Wednesday 30th traveled 15 mils camped in a small Valley
Thursday 31 traveled 15 mils stoped in the plain[.] some animals failed
Friday November 1st Came over on Goos[e] Creek. traveled 20 mils
Satturday 2nd traveled 20 mils[.] Camped at the foot of Goos Creek mountain
Sunday 3rd crossed the mountain camped at Governors Island 31 mils[.] about 4 inches snow &lt;to night&gt; ingered [injured] our poor animals Verry much
Monday 4th traveled 16 mils campd on a small Creek some animals gave out[,] one of mine
Tuesday 5th traveled 8 mils and camped at cedar Point
Wednesday 6th crosed a Large Valley camped on nort[h] side[.] 18 mils
Thursday 7th traveled 20 mils camped in a small Valley
Friday 8th traveled 14 mils camped at the warm spring in Salt Lake Valley
Saturday 9th we crosed the Malad[.] swam our animals[.] carried our goods over on a temporary Bridge[.] Crosed Bear River camped 10 miles below on Spring Creek[.] traveled 18 miles
Sunday 10th traveled 25 mils[.] <s>S</s> Arived at Brown Fort[.] Put James T Seaton in care of the Bishop having been sick some time[.] he died about 11 oclock at night
Monday 11th I came Down to my farm in Cherry s neighbour Hood[.] 30 mils[.] staid all night <s>and</s>
Tuesday 12th I arrived in the city at ten oclock in the morning &lt;12 miles&gt; found my family and frends generally well

Transcript for Rich, Charles Coulson, Diary, vol. 8, 65-72, in Collection, 1832-1908

Rich, Charles Coulson, Diary.

Rich, Mary Ann Phelps, Autobiography of Mary Ann Phelps Rich [1951], 19-21

Rich, Mary Ann Phelps, Autobiography of Mary Ann Phelps Rich [1951], 19-21.

<center xmlns:its="http://www.w3.org/2005/11/its" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">THE WESTERN TREK</center>
My husband [Charles C. Rich] fitted up his wagons and teams and we left Winter Quarters in June, 1847; he having been placed in charge of a company of one hundred wagons. We traveled to the Elkhorn River, here we had to wait until all had crossed the river, as we crossed on rafts, and Mr. Rich had to wait until they all got over so he could tie the raft and bring the rope with him. There was one young man by the name of Weatherby, who was killed by the Indians while we were here, he died in our tent.
We traveled two abreast the whole distance of the Platt[e] River, for greater safety. There were thousands of buffalo on every side, which the men would kill, so we had plenty of meat. There were also hundreds of Indians to be seen at frequent intervals all the time we were traveling up the Platt River. They were very cunning, and we had to watch them very closely to see that they did not steal everything we had in our wagons. They would shoot arrows into our cattle and sheep; so we found it took more hands to herd the cattle and drive the wagons than we had anticipated.
The Saints had made an agreement among themselves that anyone who had brought a hired man or boy with them, should keep that hired man or boy until after harvest the next year so that no one would go hungry or starve after he got to the valley. Mr. Rich thought he would have to hire two more men or boys to drive two of the wagons. There was one of his wives Em[m]eline [Grover Rich] beside myself who had no children; so we volunteered to drive the wagons until we got to the valley. He did not think we could, but we persuaded him to try us one day and see. We did so well that we had our teams every day after that as regular as the men did until we arrived in the valley. We did not grieve or mourn over it, we had some very nice times when the roads were not so bad. We would make the mountans ring with our songs, and sometimes the company would get together and we would have a dance in the evening on the grass. We did not mourn but we rejoiced that we were going to the Rocky Mountains where we would be free to live our religion, and be acknowledged as wives. We felt that we wanted to do everything in our power to help Mr. Rich out, as his children were all small and he needed our help. I had never had very good health until I started on this trip, and I got to fee1ing so well that I felt it was a pleasure to take hold and do anything that lay in my power to help.
When we got to the Black Hills there was no water for the teams they were almost crazy for want of it, and when we got to the bed of the River they had to dig holes to get a little water, but they could not get half enough. Some of the men were greedy and wanted their teams to have all the water they wanted, which would not leave enough for the other teams. Mr. Rich had charge of the company and he had to appoint men to see that justice was done to each team.
When we arrived at the South Pass we met President Young and Company returning to Winter Quarters, they having gone to the valley and located Salt Lake City and appointed officers to act in the stake until they returned the next year; John Smith having been appointed President of the new stake in the valley and my husband, Charles C. Rich, first counselor and John Young second counselor. President Young and his company stayed with us one day to talk and preach to the people, telling us what to do and how to do, and whatever we did to sustain the authorities that were placed over us, and we all felt well after that and felt as though we would do our duty as far as we could.
Brigham Young and his company resumed their journey eastward and we traveled on to the valley. The roads were terrible, the mountains bad, the teams weak and it was very cold, but we were not discouraged; we felt that we would soon reach our destination, and that we would have a home in very deed when we got there. While on our juorney Mr. Rich's mother [Nancy O'Neal Rich] was taken very sick.
We arrived in Immigration Canyon on the first of October, 1847, and the longest place on my dress was just a little below my knees, I had walked through the brush, driving my team to keep them in the road, and could not stop to untangle my dress when it got fastened in the brush, but had to walk on, leaving part of my d[r]ess behind. We arrived in what is now Salt Lake City on the 2nd day of October, 1847, and found just a little fort of ten acres, and a few people who had arrived before. Mr. Rich looked around and picked out a place for a camp. The first thing we did was to care for his mother. We fixed a bed in one of the tents for her, and made her as comfortable as possible, but she only lived three days after our arrival, she being the first white woman to die in Salt Lake City.

Transcript for Rich, Mary Ann Phelps, Autobiography of Mary Ann Phelps Rich [1951], 19-21

Rich, Sarah DeArmon Pea, Autobiography, 1885-1893, [manuscript:] fd. 2, 27-43 and [typescript:] 57-65

Rich, Sarah DeArmon Pea, Autobiography, 1885-1893, [manuscript:] fd. 2, 27-43 and [typescript:] 57-65.

Transcript for Rich, Sarah DeArmon Pea, Autobiography, 1885-1893, [manuscript:] fd. 2, 27-43 and [typescript:] 57-65

Salt Lake Herald-Republican

Past Celebrations of Pioneer Day

"Past Celebrations of Pioneer Day", Salt Lake Herald-Republican, April 15, 1897, Page 8.

My father, General Rich, was captain of our company of over 100 persons.  One of the first things that impressed me on the journey was the day on which we overtook the companies at Elk Horn.  The date was June 16, 1847, and there we went into camp until the arrival of the whole pioneer train.  It was on the same day that Mr. Jacob Weatherby, one of the company, who was sent back to Winter Quarters with two companions as escort to Nancy Chamberlain, a poor demented woman who insisted on coming with us and who, the authorities thought, should be sent back to Winter Quarters, was shot by Indians within a very short distance of the camp.  Nancy and the others were unharmed and it was decided that she should be brought with us, rather than run the risk of losing any more lives in an attempt to send her back.



We remained at Elk Horn until Monday, the 21st of June, for the arrival of the artillery.  It consisted of one powder wagon, one cannon, and a boat on wheels, which was provided with a hanging bell, and which, on the journey was used to call the companies together in time of danger.  It was afterwards used for many years at the Temple for the purpose of calling the people to meeting during the existence of the Bowery.



The next thing that impressed itself on my mind was seeing, away off in the distance, a large body of people riding in our direction.  The bell was run and all the companies went into camp until it could be ascertained who they were.  Upon using spy-glasses it was discovered they were Indians.  There were 500 of them in the party, and all rode into camp, 12 abreast, chanting some weird song and waving a large flag.  They had heard of our expected arrival and had ridden out from Fort Laramie to trade with us.  They remained three days, and the chief fell a victim to the charms of my father’s wife and wished to buy her.  He would not take no for an answer, but hovered around camp a number of days in a vain endeavor to gain possession of her.



“The days were not all filled with hard work,” said Mrs. Miller.  “We sometimes we went into camp for a few days’ rest, and as there were musicians along, we often had a dance, the discomfort of tripping the light fantastic on the ground being made light of by the pioneers.”

Transcript for "Past Celebrations of Pioneer Day," Salt Lake Herald, 15 April 1897, 8

Salt Lake Herald-Republican.

Saints: The Story of the Church of Jesus Christ in the Latter Days

Prophets of the Restoration

Global Histories

Revelations in Context

Women of Conviction

Joseph Smith Papers

Church Historian’s Press

More

Publications

Church History Museum

Historic Sites

Church History Library

Visit

Church History Catalog

Missionary Database

Pioneer Database

Treasures of the Collection

Pioneer Resources

Research

Church Historic Sites

Quick Links

Church History Biographical Database

/chd/landing

motherReferenceId

fatherReferenceId

birthPlace

baptizedByReferenceId

missionQualifier

maritalStatusWhenCalled

priesthoodOfficeWhenCalled

missionOrganizationReferenceIdValue

locationServed

associatedPeople

<a href="https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/124.132?lang=eng#p131#131">D&amp;C 124: 132</a> At Nauvoo, Illinois

Member of Nauvoo High Council

title

arrived-at-home

called

Called to Preside over the 16 missionaries assigned to assist Joseph Smith's presidential campaign and preach the gospel in Michigan. (History journal of the Church, April 15, 1844, p.2)

Charles Coulson Rich, Sr.

Birth Date

Death Date

Gender

Sources