Transcript
Transcript of "Warren Foote Emigrating Company Journal, 1850 June-September."
Title: Warren Foote Emigrating Company Journal, 1850 June-September
Call Number: MS 686
[Page 1 of 127]4747
Warren Foote Ms d 1850
#46
1850
[Page 2 of 127]
[Page 3 of 127]
ShapeEmigrating
Company's
Book
Warren Foote Captain
1850
[Page 4 of 127]
Glendale Feb. 2nd 1898
Elder F. D. Richards. Church Historian
Dear Brother.
Your reply to my note
of Jan 18th is received, and I herewith
send you the Journal spoken of.
If you have read brother James A. Little's
"From Kirtland to Salt Lake" you will notice
that he has made a great mistake in the
date of the year that my company crossed
the Plains. He has got it 1852 which (should)
have been 1850. As soon as I saw his
book, I wrote to him with regard to this
mistake, and he replied that he would
correct it in the next edition published.
I do not know whether there has been
a second edition published.
I don't see how he could have made
this mistake, as he had brother Mullimer's
journal and also my favorite journal, (I had
copied Bro. Mullimer's daily journal into mine)
to get his extracts from. I regretted this
[Page 5 of 127]
mistake very much, and hope it will
be corrected in some way.
Please acknowledge the receipt
of this book, and oblige, your Brother in
the Gospel
Warren Foote
[Page 6 of 127]
[Page 7 of 127]
[Page 8 of 127]
[Page 9 of 127]
Waggon
person
cattle
horses
sheep
Warren Foote Captin of 100
1
6
7
-
-
Otis L Terry Captin of 1st Divison
1
6
8
-
-
Samuel Mulliner Capin 1st ten
2
2
13
-
-
Otis Terry
1
2
4
-
-
Charles A Terry
1
5
6
-
-
Alex H Loveridge
1
5
6
-
-
John Roy lance
1
8
8
-
-
Ann Madson
1
2
5
Jesse Mc Carrol
1
5
10
John Hill
1
5
4
George Rose Captin 2 ten
1
6
10
Wesley Rose
1
5
9
John Rose
1
7
8
Jared Porter
2
13
12
Henry W Sanderson
2
7
10
Susannah Ward
1
8
6
John G. Stocking
2
6
15
21
114
142
[Page 10 of 127]
Silas J Simmons Captin 3 (ten)
1
1
9
Robert. W. Bidwell
2
6
13
3
John Mowers
1
2
6
Simeon Crajan
1
2
5
Robert Montgomery
2
12
14
1
John Fotheringham
1
5
7
Washingto L Jolly
1
8
10
10
Joseph L Lish Captin 4 ten
2
9
14
1
William S Lish
1
4
6
Samuel Glasgow
1
3
8
Ira Capelman
1
2
8
John Hamilton
2
4
16
3
John Mayor
2
6
11
John Snalham
1
2
10
William Ralph
1
4
6
Jane Rigby
1
8
6
21
78
149
5
13
[Page 11 of 127]
John Greaves Captin 5 ten
1
3
12
1
David Amos
1
2
-
1
Robert Discon
1
7
7
William Stones
1
8
6
William Clemens
1
5
6
John Proctor
1
5
5
John Mc Donald
2
5
10
3
Newman G. Blodgett
2
7
32
-
140
John Dart
1
10
8
-
Wade
1
5
8
12
57
94
5
140
21
78
149
5
13
21
114
142
54
249
385
10
153
Wagons
Persons
Cattle
Horses
Sheep
[Page 12 of 127]
This Company was organ -
- ised on the 12th of June by Elder
O. Hyde on the camping ground
2 miles from the ferry above Beth -
lehem, Warren Foot, appointed
captain of the hundred and Otis
Lysander Terry captain of the first
division & William Wall Captain of
the second division, on the 17th
our whole company camped on a
creek about 3 miles (west)from the ferry
were the officers met and passed
the following resolutions for the
intended benifit of the company
[three words crossed out] while journeying
to the valley of the Salt Lake
[Page 13 of 127]
1st Samuel Mulliner was chosen
clerk for the camp while journeying
2nd Resolved that the company will
arise in the morning when the horn
shall blow at 4 o'clock and after
the necessary preparation for starting
the horn shall blow for prayers. [word crossed out]
[words crossed out] Also the horn shall blow
for prayer every evening at 1/2 past 8.
3rd resolved that if any of the company
while on gaurd shall neglect his
duty by sleep or otherwise for the
first offence he shall be reported
from the stand and if afterward
found guilty of neglect he shall be
again reported and be subjected to
[Page 14 of 127]
extra duty in day time herding
cattle
4th Resolved that any member
of this camp who is in the habit
of profane swearing and after being
reproved by their captain shall still
persist they shall be published
from the stand.
5th Resolved that if any person
practice unnesecary cruelty to
their animals and after being reproved
shall persist in such cruelty they
will be brought before the captains
of the camp who shall levy such fine
[Page 15 of 127]
or punishment as they deem just.
On the (eve of the) 18th these resolutions was
presented to the first division and
accepted unanimous. The 2nd div -
- ision was not in camp owing to a
birth which took place in their camp.
Resolved that no firearms loaded
and primed or caped shall be
allowed in camp only by the guard
or in case of necesity and when not
about to be used the cap or priming
to be instantly removed [letter crossed out] a neglect
of this law will incur the severest
penalty of camp regulations.
[Page 16 of 127]
At a meeting of the 1st Division on the
evening of the 18th it was motioned
and carried unanimous that each
captain of ten should present to the
captain of the guard 3 men each
for the night guard -
Captain Greaves resigned his com-
mand Br McDonald was chosen
Br Lish was chosen captain and
John Hill Sergeant of the night guard
and Charles Terry captain of the
day guard.
A motion for tying up dogs while
not traveling was passed if found
loose contrary to this law liable to be
shot
21st Motioned that no cattle shall be taken
out of the carrel till after prayer in the morning
[Page 17 of 127]
Text Box[Page 18 of 127]
persons
gaurd roll 1 ten
11
" 2 "
15
" 3 "
11
" 4 "
14
" 5 "
12
Text Boxtotal fit to guard -
63
Text Box Names of the babtised into the
church in our camp - By Samuel
Mullins
John Dart Age Birth Place
July 1st Franklin Cunningham
on the 14th July I babtised and reba-
- btized Lorne 30 or 40 who were re
quested to leave with me their names
& ages but in our travels it has been neglected
some of those baptised
James Montgomery born April 1 1831
John Montgomery June 5 1832
[Page 19 of 127]
names of those babtised into the church
Isabella Montgomery July 16 - 1836
robert Montgomery May 8 - 1837
Magret Montgomery July 31 1809
Nathaniel Montgomery May 3 1841
[Page 20 of 127]
2nd Division
Waggon
Persons
Cattle
Horses
Sheep
William Wall Captn-2ndDivision
1
7
8
Ute Perkins Captn 1st ten
2
11
14
Marion Haws
1
3
7
Alva Downey
1
3
6
Wm L Perkins
1
6
6
Peter Hofines
1
5
6
Charles Cowley
2
10
14
13
William Watterson
1
6
8
4
John K Crosby
2
9
20
1
8
Peter Maughan Captn 2(10)
2
9
15
Noah Packard
1
5
6
John Wood
1
7
6
John Eblie
1
3
6
Wilson Lunn
1
5
8
Isaac Hunter
1
3
5
Orin Packard
1
Shape3
4
20
95
139
1
25
[Page 21 of 127
Waggon
Person
Cattle
Horses
Sheep
Chester Loveland Capt 3-(10)
2
9
10
Wm White
1
6
9
James Downs
1
4
10
1
Henry Barney
2
10
22
Fornatus Dustin
1
4
6
Cyral Call
1
4
13
Linsey Brady
2
9
12
1
15
Charles Y Weeb
1
6
10
11
A. Coon Capt-of 4th - 101
3
15
23
2
29
Francis Taylor
2
10
12
9
Matterson Welch
2
2
Thomas Spafford
2
11
22
Spinsor [Spicer] Crandall
1
3
5
Daniel Crocks
1
5
10
Gilbert Belnap capt 5 (10)
1
4
4
James Knight
1
2
4
John Chidester
1
3
4
John Mc Bride
Shape1
3
6
24
110
184
4
64
[Page 22 of 127]
Sheep
Waggon
person
Cattle
Horses
Sheep
Alfred Brown
1
9
5
John Titcomb
1
6
6
7
John Beal
1
4
12
5
Henry Beal
1
4
ShapeLewis Neaby
[Neeley]
3
9
12
4
19
7
32
35
4
31
15
24
110
184
4
64
11
Shape
20
95
139
1
25
29
51
237
358
9
120
9
[Page 23 of 127]
[Page 24 of 127]
1850
Journal
ShapeJune 17th started from camping ground and
near the ferry were our (cart) got together
as they crossed Br. Roylance w(h)eel
broke which caused us to stop about
3 miles first day. 18th travelled
about 16 miles. 1 birth in camp
we catched a joursy *Coon - - a boy
was run over by a wagon but not
seriously injured. a delay having a
slough to cross were many had to
double teams
*Abraham Coon's wife gave birth to
Shape a boy baby
19th travelled 6 miles. on starting
one rocky stream to cross where we
were detained till afternoon. This morn
ing we had a severe storm of wind.
[Page 25 of 127]
rain and thunder which almost blasted
our hopes of starting. along in the after
noon we came to another bad stream
to cross, the 1st division crossed and
camped on the ground were found
there had been 5 or 6 of our folks had
died 4 days previous. this evening at
prayer only a part of our camp were
present when a vote was taken that
we disaprove of the abscence of our
Brethren from prayers some suitable
remarks were made on the occasion.
20th We traveled 10 mile had 2
delays in crossing creeks - met
a number of gold diggers returning
home - saw 2 graves of our people
several cases of cholera in camp to night
the case of Alfred Brown serious one wagon
tongue broke and replaced.
[Page 26 of 127]
21st Started and travelled 16 miles
before leaving (we) buried Br.Brown (of) 2 d Division
2 boys died in 2 division this day, they
are camped on the east side of salt
Creek, we on the west side. 1 girl had
her leg broke in 2 division. 22nd, 2 more of
Br. Spafford children dead (making 3 in one day) 2nd division
We started and travelled 17 miles -
encountered a storm of wind & rain
which spared us in a great measure.
but was severe before and behind us
delayed (us) over one hour. 23rd. travelled
4 miles being Sabbaath. very wet weather
24th still wet our division near us
several more deaths in 2nd division
Captain Foot called a meeting for
prayer of the whole company also a
council of all the captains there was
[Page 27 of 127]
a good spirit manifested by all
the captains but it seems a good
deal of murmuring in the 2nd
division. we have had a good time
today in our meeting & council
and hope the offences will now
be stayed. 25th travelled 15 miles
met a severe storm in the afternoon
another in the evening making every
thing wet in camp pretty much
1 wagon tongue broke, the 2 division
along with us - 1 more death in it
26 another death in 2nd division this (morning)
showery till afternoon - travelled 15 miles
2nd division about 5 miles behind
our camp as usual general good health.
27th travelled about 15 miles met
Br. (Moses) Clawson from the valley soon
[Page 28 of 127]
as we got on the Platt bottom
and was happy to hear from the
valley. weak on account of our
travels and sent to Prest Hyde
our camp in good health. 28th a
severe storm of rain & thunder in
the night - travelled 12 miles
a very bad road low wet bottom
or else sand bank not much water
for cattle and a very hot sun and
we had to keep the waggons moving
or they would sink to the axels.
Some complaining of sickness from
the exposure to wet by day and nght
Apart of our camp not able to come
to the camping ground tonight the 3
and 5 ten absent- the absences were
up late and for the first time we
[Page 29 of 127]
saw the power of death in our camp
1 boy had fallen in a few hours and
this morning (29th) a girl both the children
of John Dart. - the family don't be
long to the church. This day we trav[led]
3 miles and camped on the Platt
were our folks washed & one young
man nearly drowned trying to
cross to get wood. In the evening we
had the pleasure of a visit from
Brs. Robert Cambell and Crosby with
the valley mail. this night another
severe storm of thunder wind and rain.
I have just baptized John Dart in -
to the church his wife is so weak as
not to be able to be baptized but is
willing with this exception . Our camp
is in good health 30th.
[Page 30 of 127]
this day we start 15 miles and camp -
ed 1 mile west of Pawnee village.
(our camp in reasonable health
the 2nd division not come up we reach(e)d
the Platt at noon. July 1st travelled
15 miles to the point of the bluff,- fine
cool day a little showery this evening
I baptized Frnklin Cunningham
our camp - all well 2nd traveled 16
miles-a pleasant day 1 child died
in camp named Hart, this day
I observed on our way the graves
of Br. Sargant and son. 3rd this
morning we had to bury Br. Small -
ham who was taken the evening before
this day we travelled 12 miles had a
hard time crossing the Willow Slough
but got all over,- one wagon tongue
[Page 31 of 127]
broke our 2nd division is in sight to
night. We have not been together in
one week, nor learned anything of
them only by the help of our telescope
we see them in the distance. 4th
we were reminded of the day of the
month by the report of cannon
from fort Kearney. We traveled 16
miles today. -2 cases of Cholera in
camp. 5th 1 man died in the
night, (a gold digger by the name
of King from Ill.) We traveled 9
miles and are close by Fort Kearny
to night. - plenty Antelope around
hot weather hard on cattle. This
morning we had a visit from
captain Wall and others of our 2nd
division they report well of their
[Page 32 of 127]
travel for the last 8 days,- their
deaths 3 since we heard from
them before they feel about
right, to night they are 5 miles
behind us camped for the night.
6th 1 woman died in the night (a) Mrs
Dart [Hart]. She requested baptism yesterday
and some one attended to it as we came
along the road. she has been very low
for some days back, we reached Fort Kearney
x this day. 10 o'clock travelled 12 miles Our
camp generally well. This morning we
had to bury Mrs. Hart. This being Sabbath
we would fain have rested but we
had no wood nor water, so we traveled
13 miles and have no wood (to night) nor water &
have drove our cattle to the river over
[Page 33 of 127]
a mile and carry a little water to
cook and our fuel for the first time
is buffafo chips. 3 new cases of
cholera (or diarhea) this morning. The 2nd ten has not
arrived yet as the ten wished to
tarry behind this morning some
time to attend to the sick. 8th
our 2d ten has not arrived yet this day
we traveled 12 miles. Our camp all in
good health. We catched a rum away
horse to day, he was soon claimed
by 2 men who came form Capt.
Berrets 50 of Capt. Trace 100, they
reproted their camp 15 miles on
west - all in good health except 1
woman. They were buffalo hunting -
had wounded 2, but got none
9th we are camping on plumb crest.
[Page 34 of 127]
for the purpose of washing &
Our 2nd division has passed on , all in
moderate health, no serious case in
their camp. Capt Maughan's ten
of their division fell behind some days,
but have come up and camped by us
to night. This Capt. was very dessatis -
- fied at the slow movement, as he
called it, of our camp but some of
his cattle has given out and he can't
keep up. so much for go ahead folks
Our (2nd) ten has just come up. They have
saved Father Rose from an attack
of the cholera it appears as he will
recover. Sister Proctor is very bad 10th
This morning we had to bury this Sister
we travelled 12 miles to day -had to
stop early to let those who had had
[Page 35 of 127]
death and sickness wash up while we
could get fire wood. Capt. Foot is
rather (weary) some of these days. 11th we had
a severe storm of rain and wind last
night, but the Lord preserved us all
from danger, traveled 16 miles today.
Camped in good health. a violent attack
of cholera this morning but means
promptly used with the blessing of
god it was an instant cure the medicine
used was 2 doses of Jain Ki(a)lt
in 15 minutes. Many of our cattle
afflected with sore feet and sore necks
on account of wet weather - this
day we passed 25 graves , mostly all
Californians (only) 3 or 4 were out of our camp's
12th this day we travelled 15 miles.
about noon we came up to Capt.
[Page 36 of 127]
Maughan's ten. They had stopped a
few minutes before we came up
in consequence of the captain's son
about 4 years old being run over
by his waggon. He died an hour
after the accident. This day we
saw the first buffalo some of our
Boys went after him and finally
vented their vengeance on a stray
ram which they brought into camp
he eat pretty well instead of Buff -
alo meat, our camp all had good
health this evening - looked the most
threatening I ever saw for a dreadful
storm. it was expected but thier
was prayers & faith exercised by some
and the Lord regarded us and
saved us for which I praise his
[Page 37 of 127]
name for it looked awfull all over
the heavens this day we passed 15 graves
they were mostly Californians the first
deaths seemed to be 3rd June to the 10th
Some reached to the 17th. 13th we
travelled 8 miles and stopped to
bake and wash for we will not
have a chance (in) a long distance again
our boys are getting some venison
14 Sabbath morning we took a
walk some of us to the road crossing
Ash Creek and met with Br. S.
Roundy & compeny in the after -
noon when our folks had got along
with their cleaning up [wood crossed out] we
went to the river where I baptized
and reba(b)ptized, some 30 on hill of
our camp. In the evenig we had
[Page 38 of 127]
A good meeting, several of our
Bretheren spoke well, a good spirit
prevailed and we parted rejoining
several of our Boys brought us their
Back loads of buffalo meat, the
first we have got - this night like every
other night for some time back the
heavens gathered blackness most thre -
- atening but as on other evenings before
it could reach us it was scattered
for which I feel to thank the Lord
for over ruling the elements for our
comfort. 15th this day we trav(eled)
19 miles in the afternoon we saw
our second division. We also saw 3
buffalo near us, some of our boys
went out and killed some. Our
camp all in good health except father
[Page 39 of 127]
Rose who seems to be failing after his
attack of cholera. This evening we came
together and as many were out of
meat, we thought best to stay over
the next day and get a supply
of meat. 16th our boys out hunting
in the middle of the day we were
visited by Elder G Hyde and
escort. They seemed in good spirits
after refreshing themselves and horses
they pushed on west. 17th we had
to bury Father Rose this morning.
we travelled 14 miles today passing
through large herds of buffalo. we
are pretty well supplied with meat
our camps in good health.18th
we travelled 16 miles today our
camp in good health feed very
[Page 40 of 127]
scanty. We have passed a great
many graves in the last few days
mostly buried from the 5th to 15 June
and mostly from Mo and scarcely
a grave but has been robbed of its
contents by the wolves 19th
we have travelled 15 miles to day.
our camp in good health we are
near the crossing (of the Platt.) 20th today we
travelled 9 miles then crossed the
south fork of the Platt. We got all
over safe, and found our 2nd division
on the Bank. They crossed yesterday.
21st being sabbath we are resting,
our camp in good health -feed is poor
22nd, we traveled 20 miles today
and got to the (North fork) Platt. (23 )we are stopping
today to repair waggons & at ash
[Page 41 of 127]
Hallow. 24th we traved 13 miles to
day very sandy road, our camp in
good health, feed very poor, our
cattle look rather worse of wear
25th we travelled 12 miles to day
very sandy - all in good health
except Sister Lish. 26 we
travelled 16 miles today nothing
to be seen but sand and dust no
feed. 27th we strted this
morning at day break to find
some feed, as they got none
last night. we soon found
some, but coming on a rain storm
we were detained some hours, we
travelled 13 miles this day. -
28th today we travelled 20
miles and camped opposite Chim
[Page 42 of 127]
- ney Rock all well in our camp.
last night I had a fine cow
die in a short time supposed
to be poisoned from drinking
bad water. 29th today we traveled
13 miles was overtaken by Livingston
and Kincaid camp all well, feed poor
30th travelled 20 miles passed Scotts bluff
all well had to appoint Br Bidwell
capt over the 3 turm owing to the re -
fractory course taken by Capt. Silas
G Simmons. 31st this morning
Simmons left the camp alone
and went on some hours before the
camp started this day we travelled
15 miles in the evening Br. Loveland
with his 3 ten of the 2nd division
came up and camped with us They
[Page 43 of 127]
had laid up 21/2 days in consequen(ce)
of Sister Loveland being very sick.
The feed is poor,- our health is
all good , any case of sickness in
our camp for some time back
is immediately checked by the
laying on of hands and prayer.
Aug. 1st we traveled 12 miles today.
- had to stop for an axeltree broke.
a number of the Sioux Indians
about us,- they appear quiet the
small pox is among them, we
hope the Lord will preserve us
from that plague. 2nd this day
we traveled 20 miles and camped
on the river 2 miles (north) from Fort
Laramie all well,- no feed
3d travelled 11 miles,-this day we
[Page 44 of 127]
came up to our 2nd division
(we) was over taken by Major Sanders
in search of 2 deserters who he said
he was informed was along with us
in disguise, he ordered our camp to
halt till we would give up the
men and those who had given
them clothes. we halted and he
and his escort rode through our
camp and finding we had none
of his men he allowed us to
proceed. he was positive in his
demand but when he had rode
through our camp he appeared
to be softened in his determination
spoke kindly and told us to go on
4th trvelled 14 miles and camped on
2nd crossing of bitter creek all well
[Page 45 of 127]
here we found good feed and water
5th resting our teams and fixing
our waggons. &c last evening the
captain of the 1st & 2nd division held
a council and determined to take
the old road over the Black hills.
6th still resting,- this afternoon we
were visited by Capt Lovelands 10
of 2nd Div [Division] who informed us that
the main body of our 2nd Div [Division] had
taken the other road contrary to
the decision of the whole in coun
- cil. Our cattle feel well now,- 2
days rest and good feed has
done them good. our camp all in
good health. 7th we started this
morning from 4 miles east of the Bend
in the road near [dry crossed out] (Dead) timber creek.
[Page 46 of 127]
and as the first tenreached near the
deep ravine, a stampede took place
in the 5th.10 - as they were coming
into line on the road. The teams that
were running were providentially
stopped or who can tell the awful
scene that would have taken place in
that deep ravine, for every waggon
would have been found in the bottom
of it. Poor Br. Clements lost his life
in endeavering to stop the waggons
Wm McDonald at the risk of his
life, and his horse's rode in before the
teams and stopped them before they
got far enought to scare the front teams
Br. Clements was knocked down
by the oxen, trode on his body and hea -
- vy waggon passed over his bowels.
[Page 47 of 127]
he lived till towards evening 8th we
travelled till Horse Creek 15 miles
all well this evening,- poor feed. 9th
[words crossed out] lost several head of our cattle.
10th cattle not found 11th cattle not
found. we started and late in the
evening got to (near) Labout.16 1/2 miles. 12th
had to start this morning to get some
feed for our cattle for they had none
last night. came on 2 mile on the
Labout river,- found poor feed-had to
stop all day 13th came to A. La
Prele river (18 miles) had to drive our
cattle about 3 miles down the
river to get feed
[Page 48 of 127]
14th came to Fourche Boise river
10 miles, drove 2 miles up the river
to get feed. Our camp all in good
health, a nmber of our cattle
lame. 15th. We came 11 miles and
camped on the Platt bottom. All
well - poor feed. 16th we came
14 miles found poor feed but plenty
company. Captain Bennets 50 close
by,- our 2nd division 2 miles back.
17 we came 9 miles to day. on
our way we met 2 pilots from
the valley. Br. Stratton &c
the news we got from them by
the letter was cheering, as also
the remarks & council from
Br. Stratton. We felt to rejoice
at seeing our Brethren and hearing
[Page 49 of 127]
from the valley. We are close
at the ford of the North Fork (Platt)
poor feed for our cattle. 18th
this day we forded the river in a
heavy rain storm,- river rising fast.
the water up to every box. Pace's
100 - & our 100 all crossed this day
all over safe. 19th still in camp
1 mile from the ford in a heavy
cold rain storm, our cattle suff -
- ering with cold & hunger 20th
we travelled 10 miles to day
over the worst road we have
met in our journey,- it has been
a heavy rain for nearly 40 hours
several of our cattle gave out to
day, to night in good feed, an
a creek near the Plaatt. Our 2nd
[Page 50 of 127]
division close by in camp, this day
we saw the Sweet Water
mountains caped with snow.
21st this day we traveled 9 miles
and camped up a hallow west
of the Alkali Springs. Our cattle
eat too much of the grass having
had little chance so long for such
fine feed and most of them was
sick all night. 1 cow (Captain Footes) died on
the ground. Several gallons
of lard was used for them for fear
they had been poisoned by the
water. 22nd many of our cattle
very feeble this morning but we
have got them as far as Willow
springs 12 o'clock. Br. George Madson
is along with us and gave timely
[Page 51 of 127]
caution of the danger of the
cattle hurting themselves but
like many cautions given to us
as a people we are slow to see
the results of delays in obeying
orders. having travelled 11 miles we
camped. our cattle get no feed to
night, but they generally feel better
23 started at 5 o'clock came on
to Grease creek were we bathed and
took breakfast. we found our 2nd
division starting as we came up,
we drove on to Sweet water 10 miles
24th our company resting,- some gave
to hunt, others Blacksmithing, and
repair wagons. 25th Sabbath, our
hunters not returned,-our cattle
are enjoying themselves with plenty
[Page 52 of 127]
good grass & water. 26th & 27th
this evenings 3 of our waggons returned
from the hunt,- got no meat. our
4th waggon not returned. 27th
still waiting for our 4th waggon,
our cattle doing well, our camp
all in good health. Yesterday we
killed one buffalo near the
camp but they seem as herds
to have left this part of the
country. 28th our 4th waggon
came in, in the night bringing with
them 3 buffalo they had killed. we
got started at 11 o'clock and came
on 10 miles to the Devils gate.
- all well. 29th this day we travelled
12 miles and camped on the river
bank. our camp. all well.
[Page 53 of 127]
30th this day we travelled 11
miles. in the evening a meeting
of the division was called, as
there seemed to be some disaff
- ected in our 4th & 5th tens. 5th
Captn McDonald laid his
views before the meeting declaring
that he had made up his
mind and it must be so,
or else -. 4th Capt. Lish was
of the same mind provided
the captains should (see) fit to grant
it. Several of their men spoke
positively of their having their
proposal granted among them
Wm Lish who was insolent, but
that is common with him
and the Capt & company have
[Page 54 of 127]
borne with his disorderly conduct
they wanted the (several) tens to have
the liberty of travelling first in
turn day about. The 1st, 2nd, 3rd
captains viewed the order of the
camp good, and we had been pro -
- spered so far - and also saw that
to change was going to cause trouble
in their 10's where there had been
peace and union all the way
previous. So of two evils they choose
not to let the 4th and 5th tens
over rule them, because there was
some trouble among them and
their captains frequently. The captain
of the campany and the captain
of the 50 (also our [illegible] of) was of the same mind
with the 1st 2nd & 3rd so they lost
[Page 55 of 127]
motion and many of them left
the meeting abruptly & noisey
31st this morning our camp was
reduced some in numbers by the
result of our captains decision last
night. Before and during the time
of prayer the under signed
members of our camp drove
off firing their guns as they went
Shape4th 10th absentees
William S. Lish
Ira Caselman
John Hamilton
John Mayer
Ira Ribgy
5th 10 Capt. John McDonald
[Page 56 of 127]
we expect to feel or enjoy more
peace in our camp since some
of those who left were troublesome
neighbors. we travelled 12 (miles) toay
all well in our camp,- our cattle
doing well as feed is a deal
better. Sept.1st Sabbath. In the
afternoons we travelled 4 miles
to the river,- all well. 2nd we
traveled 19 miles to the river,-
all well. 3d we travelled 10
miles today, all well except Sister
Blodgett, who has been confined
she had a fine boy - doing well.
4th this morning we started
from the river and took a new road
made as the finger board informed
us by a Capt Andrus it is a
[Page 57 of 127]
new road and a rough one, but
we save going over the rocky ridges
we travelled 11 miles and found this
a round about rough road throughout.
5th this day we travelled 10 miles
and came to the upper crossing of
the river. Our cattle are failing fast
many of them, 6th this day we
travelled 14 miles and camped
on Pasific Creek. Last evening
we had a thunder storm. we
came through the south pass
at noon today very pleasant
and warm. We find a number
of dead cattle today. 7th we went
12 miles today and found good
feed and water. Wm. Cragan
was about to be confined
[Page 58 of 127]
and several of our company are
behind in consequence, our pilot
lost his horse last night, he with
some others were in search all day
found him and got into camp at
dusk. 8th our waggons have
not come up, so we are resting
9th our waggons came up last
night, so this day we travel[led] 22
miles before we could find water
we came to Big Sandy about 9:00 o'
clock in the night. 10th this day
we travelled 5 miles and camped
on [words crossed out] (Big Sandy.) 11th this day we travel[ed]
18 miles and camped on Green River
12 we travelled 15 miles - was visited
by Br. Stratten on his return to the
valley. 13th we travelled 16 miles today
[Page 59 of 127]
14th we travelled 19 miles today
and camped on Black fork 15
we traveled 9 miles and camped
on a bend of a creek,- good feed.
16th we traveled 19 miles and cam-
ped on a small creek 2 miles
from Muddy Creek. 17th we traveled
13 miles (part) on the new road and cam
- ped near the top of the dividing ridge
near Bear river. 18th we traveled 8
miles - and camped on Bear river
20th traveled to Echo creek (laid over 19th to rest the teams 15 mile) 21st
traveled 9 miles detained for a fine
ox that was not able to travail.
22nd travailed 13 miles to Weber river
23 travailed 11 miles to Kayon
Creek. 24th we traveled 11 1/2 miles to near
the top of the high mountains where
[Page 60 of 127]
Shapewe had to chain up our worn out
cattle withoud feed. 25th we traveled
8 1/2 miles to the last creek, foot of the
last mountain. 26th we this day
travelled 10 miles and arrived at our
long wished for homes, the City of the
Great Salt Lake making in all
101 days since we started from the
Missouri river opposite Bethlehem.
See last leaf in this book.
[Page 61 of 127]
[Page 62 of 127]
Extracts from Captain Warren Foote's
Private Journal 1850.
As there are quite a number of
leaves left blank in this book
I will make some extracts from
my private journal in order to
show my situation in the spring of
1850 and the dealings of the Lord
with me in causing me to seriously
consider the advisability of going to
Salt Lake Valley this year.
My nephew, Franklin Allen and myself
had purchased the little gristmill
at Kanesville of Jacob Myers , our
father in law and was running it our -
- selves. There was a heavy emigrtion
of California Gold Diggers (as they were
called) and grain was scarce and very
[Page 63 of 127]
dear. Corn $2.00 per bus. Wheat $2.25
We made considerable money and
made some payments on the mill.
About the first of May I took a
severe cold, and was not able to do
anything. I hired a brother, who had
just come to Kanesville from Scotland,
(a miller by occupation;) to run the
mill my half of the time. His name
is David Adamson.
My health being so poor, I began to
reflect upon my situation and
about going to the valley of Salt lake.
I felt that my health would never
be much better here in the changeable
climate. One day being greatly impres -
sed by the Spirit, I repaired to the
top of the bluff north of the mill, not
[Page 64 of 127]
far from the burying ground, and there
earnestly poured forth my soul in
prayer to the Lord, asking him to make
known his will to me,- what He would
have me to do and if it was his will
that I should move to the valley this
seson to open up the way, that I
might sell my share of the mill
and obtain a filout for that purpose.
While I was thus engaged in prayer,
the Spirit of god rested upon me and
impressed, me by a still small voice
which thrilled my whole body, sayig:
"The way shall be opered before you, and
notwithstang your ill health, inasmuch
as you put your trust in me, I will
preserve your life, and not one of your
family shall fall by the way, but
[Page 65 of 127]
I will bring you safely to the valley
of Salt lake." This filled my soul
with joy, and I returned to my house
with a full determination to set
about prepring to go.
While the California emigrants were
passing through, I had a light wagon
at Bro. Obasion's shop, for which he
was making a box. One of the emigrants
seeing it, wanted to trade a heavier one
for it. I told bro Obanion to trade
with him, I gave a little chop feed to
boot, and thus got a good strong new
wagon,- strong enough to haul 4,000 lbs
to the valley. This was before I had
any idea of going to Salt lake this year.
But I am satisfied that the Lord was
then preparing the way for me.
[Page 66 of 127]
About the last of May I sold my half
of the mill back to father Myers, and
obtained a comfortable outfit.
Two weeks from the time I sold out I
was ready to start with one wagon,
two yoke of oxen, and three cows. Two
of the cows I worked between the oxen.
George Kent, whose brother is in the
valley going to drive my team for
the privilege of going with me, and board.
I will say here, that brother Otis L Terry,
who had been following blacksmithing
in Kanesvill, and with whom I had intimately
acquainted, was prepaaring to go
to the valley this season. We agreed to go
together in the same company.
On the 10th of June we started from
Kanesville in company with brother Terry's
[Page 67 of 127]
father, and his brother Charles A. Terry.
The Saints are crossing the Missouri river
18 miles below Kanesville this year, and
going up the south side of the Platte river.
We drove down to Mosquito Creek bridge
and camped.
12th We Moved on down to within a
mile and an half of the ferry and
unhitched our teams just in time to
attend the meeting for organizing the
company. Elder Hyde soon arrived
and proceeded to organize the hundred.
There was quite a congregation
present but many who were going
had not yet arrived .
Brother Hyde arose and after looking
over the congregation, said, "I nominate
Bro Warren Foote for captain of hundred.
[Page 68 of 127]
This was so unexpected to me, I must
confess that I was completel dumfounded.
It was voted unanimiously. Then brother
Hyde nominated Otis L. Terry captain
of first fifty. Voted unanamously.
He was as much taken by surprise
as I was. Elder Hyde then asked for
some one to nominate a captain of
the second fifty and some one nomi -
- nated William Wall. It was voted
unanimously. Elder Hyde then said that
the captain of the hundred, and the
captains of fifties, would organize the
fifties into tens. This we accomplished
during the afternoon.
As has been stated, brother Otis L. Terry
and I had agreed to travel together across
the plains but little did we think then
[Page 69 of 127]
that we would be associated together
as leaders of the company.
Elder Hyde asked if the brethren
were generally supplied with firearms.
Upon inquiry we found that there
were several families who had none.
He said there were muskets belonging
to the Nauvoo Legion, stored at Kanesville
and that we could have them on
conditions that we would deliver them
to the authorities of the church in
Salt Lake City. It was decided that I
should return to Kanesville and get
the muskets. Accoringly I returned
on horseback and selected 15 that were
in shooting order, and got a man who
was going down to the ferry to take
them along. I returned to camp the
[Page 70 of 127]
next day (June 16.th) The second fifty
commenced crossing on the 13th I had my
family ferried over the 14th and camped
with the seond fifty a short distance
from the river. On the 16th the first fifty
were all ferried over, and all, camped
by a creek three miles from the Ferry.
As brother Terry (and I) had agreed to travel
together I concluded to travel with the
first fifty and (it) was decided that my
wagon should take the lead or head
of the company which place I occupied
throughout the journey.
I have written the foregoing as a kind
of preliminary to Bro Mullmer's journal.
The succeeding pages contains my
review of the journey.
[Page 71 of 127]
A review of the journey to Salt lake.
I will briefly review our journey.
As I have previously stated, [my crossed out]
[health crossed out] my health was not very good
before I left Kanesville.
After starting from the Missouri river
I made it a practice towards camping -
time, to get on a horse and ride ahead
of the company and select a camping
place. After we had been traveling about
a week as I was about five miles ahead
of the company looking for a camping
place, there came up a thunder
shower, and I was completely drenched.
I took a terrible cold which settled on
my lungs which caused the illness
spoken of in the journal. I was not
so but what I could get around a
[Page 72 of 127]
little, but my lungs were so weak, that I
could scarcely speak above a whisper.
When we were along about Thum Creek, the
atmosphere was so close and heavy that
it seemed to me that I would have to
give up breathing altogether.
I remembered the promises of the Lord
that were made to me before I sold my
share of the mill, and humbly asked
the Lord to fullfil the same. I was
impressed to be baptized for my health,
and requsted brother Milliner to perform
the ordinance; which he did, and was
then administered to by the brethren.
After this I began to recover slowly.
When we arrived at Scott's Bluffs I was
able to walk short distances. From this
place onward the atmosphere became
[Page 73 of 127]
lighter, and dryer, and my health
improved very fast and I was able to
again take a more active part in the
management of the company.
It was a very serious time while the
cholera was raging in the company,
but after it abated, we enjoyed our
travels, and as a general thing a good
spirit. In places where feed was very
scarce, there was some who murmured
about our camping where there was so
little grass, but the next morning as
we traveled along they would acknowledge
that our camping place was as good or
better than it was a "little ahead." They
would say on camping, that there was
a better place a 'Little ahead."
Although there was some murmuring
[Page 74 of 127]
occasionally, yet I think that we crossed
the plains with as little difficulty as
any company that has crossed them.
I am certain that a journey through
a desert country of a thousand miles,
with five hundred souls will try the
patience of any man, or set of men
who are appointed to preside over
them as leaders, especially so when
the company consists of different
nationalities,, having different customs,
and some without experience in driving
ox teams and taking care of them.
I am thankful to be able to say that
the Lord blessed me with patience to
such a degree, that one captain of ten
said in one of our council meetings
that I was certainly one of the most
[Page 75 of 127]
patient men that he ever saw.
I do not think that he said this as
a compliment to me, but it was because
I would not agree to a tyranical proposi -
- tion that he was proposing. I was
determined that every person in the
company should have their rights
respected, and I am pleased to say
that captain O.L. Terry stood firmly
by me, in fact we were one in
all our councils.
Bro. Mulliner has omitted to state that
at the foot of the last mountain, where
we camped for the (last) time before we
entered the valley, the first fifty were
called together for the purpose of
settling all difficulties if any existed,
and ask each other's forgiveness; so
[Page 76 of 127]
that we could enter the valley free
from any hard feelings towards any
of our brothers or sisters. A good spirit
prevailed and all expressed a desire
to forgive and be forgiven.
The second fifty arrived in the
valley a few days before the first
fifty. When we stopped to rest a few
days, and hunt a little west of the
Devils Gate, the second fifty was
camped about a mile ahead. Captain
Wall came to see me, and get some
instructions. I told him that they had
better push on to the valley as fast as
their teams were able to trave,l and
not wait for the first fifty; as it was
getting pretty well along in the season.
I also charged him in particular to
[Page 77 of 127]
take the muskats, (10 in number) belong -
ing to the Nauvoo Legion. that were in
his fifty and deliver them to the
authorities in Salt Lake and take their
receipts for them. This he never done
He did not even go to Salt lake City,
but as soon as he got into the valley
he took a road running south and
went direct to Provo. As the second
fifty were all dispersed before we got
to Salt lake City, I never recovered
them. I got those that were in the
first fifty and delivered them to the
President's clerk and took his receipt.
I spoke to him about those that
were in the second fifty. He said
that they were all in the valley any
way, and he seemed to think that it
[Page 78 of 127]
did not make much difference whether
they were delivered or not. In fact
they were not of much use to anyone.
The first Fifty passed through Salt
Lake City in the afternoon of the 26" of Sept
and camped on the Jordan bottom west
of the city. Many of the brethren were
anxious to get some counsel, where
they had better locate. On the mornng
of the 27th Captain Terry and I went up
into the city and found Elder Hide
at Bro. H.C. Kimballs residence, and
reported our arrival, and told him
that some of the brethren wanted to
know where would be the best place
to locate. He said that they had been
up north looking for locations for
the saints to settle, and among
[Page 79 of 127]
other places he mentioned Ogden,
and said that place would suit
him best. On our return to camp
we reported what bro. Hyde said
to us, and many of the brethren
resolved to go north. Some located
in Salt Lake City, and a few went
south to Little Cottonwood.
Warren Foote,
Captain of One Hundred.
[Page 80 of 127]
Extract from Warren Foote's
Journal concerning the "Big Move,"
as it is called and giving an idea of
the immense labor performed by
the latter Day Saints living north
of Utah County, caused by this
move.
March 1858. The forepart of this
month it was the general talk among
the saints in Salt lake, Davis and
Weber Counties, that they would have
to move enmasse to the south, in
consequence of Johnston's army, which
is camped at Green River, and are
determined to come into the valley this
spring, or at least attemped to do so.
Archibald Gardner hired me to run
his Grist Mill located on the State
[Page 81 of 127]
road six miles south of Salt Lake
city. I was to commence work on
Monday the 22 of March. I was living
in Union. I went down to the
mill early in the morning and as
I went into the house, Bro Gardner
and his family were eating breakfast.
The first thing he said to me was,
"Well, brother Foote, we have got to
leave here. President Young preached
yesterday at the Tabernacle that he
thought it best to move southward
and, and if the United States were
determined to send their army into
the valley without some treaty on
agreement we will burn our
houses,- cut down our orchards,
and make the country as desolate.
[Page 82 of 127]
as it was when we came here.
He then called for a vote of the
conregation. They all voted, aye.
He then said that he wanted the
poor to be helped first, and to begin
tomorrow, and (get) into Utah county at
least. He wanted the people to get
all their wheat floured and packed
into boxes and hauled away."
This is about what we have been
looking for, for some time, consequently
we were in a measure prepared for it.
I went into the mill and commenced
putting it in good order for business,
expecting to be crowded in a few days.
James C. Walker who had been
working for bro. Gardner was hired
to assist me. He was a young man
[Page 83 of 127]
had never worked at milling.
I soon found him to be a good care -
- ful hand. In a few days the State
road was lined with teams, loaded
with families and provisions, going
Southward and within a week our
large mill was filled full of grists
of wheat to be ground and packed.
It required two more hands to help
in the mill,- one to help James, and
one to help me. We ground on an
average farom 14 to 16 bushels an hour
day and night, and then could not
keep up with the custom. At one time
there was hundreds of bushels stored
in the barn close by. This was a
very hard time for me. I had to do all
the dressing of the burrs, (to
[Page 84 of 127]
run)and run the mill half the day
and half the night besides. But I
seemed to be strengthend for the task.
I worked about 16 hours in 24.
This rush continued about 6 or 7 weeks.
We ground thousands of bushels of wheat
the flour of which was hauled southward.
Bro. A. Gardner declared that the mill was
inspired, for he never had seen a mill
grind so before. But I think the inspiration
was cused by a powerful waterwheel,
and plenty of water, and in keeping
the millstones sharp. But I acknowledge
[that crossed out] the hand of God in giving me
strength to perform the labor I did,
and preventing accidents to the machine -
- ry &c.
Teams were constntly on the road
[Page 85 of 127]
going and coming from the south, day and
night. Some went as far as Fillmore, but
the greater part stopped in Utah county
As the last families were about moving
from Union, I took my family to
American Fork. I was absent from the
mill two days. A. Gardner moved his
family to Spanish Fork, and James C.
Walker and myself were left alone
at the mill. About three weeks after
I had taken my family to American
Fork, I went there, and moved them to
Dry Creek, four or five miles below
Moutainville, with some other families
who were camped there.
There were no families left in any
of the settlements, but the mails
were still carried regularly in Utah.
[Page 86 of 127]
I was postmaster at Union, and after the
folks had all left there, I requested the
mail carrier to stop at the mill. I took
out the mail for Union and sent it
to the places where the Union folks
were camped. The most of them were
camped at Spring Lake; afterwards
called Spring Lake Villa.
After the grinding slacked up at the
Mill, I went to the city one day to
look around. The city was as still as
death,- not a woman or child to be seen.
Occasionly I saw a lone man walking
the streets like a lonely sentinal.
Grass was growing in the deserted door
yards and streets, I had strange
feelings and reflections. What had
become of all those merry children
[Page 87 of 127]
who wer [were] wont [want] to play in those desert -
- ed dooryards and streets? What had
become of the blooming maidens
and the joyful young men who once
promenaded these now desolated streets.
Where are the middle aged, who once
caused this city to resound with
the busy hum of industry? Also
the aged, who once leisurely walked
these streets leaning upon the staff?
What had caused all this terrible
desolation? What has this people
done that they must be harassed,
and persecuted in such a manner?
What law have they broken?
The answer is, they have broken no
law. They have not done anything
that can justify the great Government
[Page 88 of 127]
of the United States in sending an army
here to destroy us. The fact is the government
has been deceived through the lying
reports of their judges, and being urged
on by wicked and designing men who
assured the President that the "Mormons"
were in open rebellion against the
government, and was establishing an
independant government of their own.
After viewing the loneliness of the city
I went to the post office. The new
postmaster had arrived with the
eastern mail. I found several books
in the office for me which I had sent
for some time ago. I found Mr.
Morrell, the new P.M. very sociable.
On learning that I was Postmaster
of Union, he inquired of me the
[Page 89 of 127]
the situation of the various Post
offices, especially those having
local names different from the
names of the post offices.
Soon after my return from moving
my family to Dry Creek, Utah Co.
the two Peace Commissioners arrived
in Salt Lake City. President Young
with other authorities of the church
met them there to hold a conference
with them. Bro A. Gardner, happened
to be at the mill at the time. We went
to Sale Lake city to attend the
conference. But their meeting was
held with closed doors and he
did not get in. On his return
to the mill that night, he reported
to us that he interviewed George
[Page 90 of 127]
A. Smith who told him, that they
had a pretty warm meeting and it
looked very doubtful about peaceably
settling matters, and it looked as
though we would have to burn
everything and flee to the mountians.
On the second day's meeting, matters
took a more favorable turn, and
before night the treaty of peace was
signed. This was joyful news to
the Saints. I took my team and started
immediately after my family.
I started from the mill about
sundown, and reached their camp
a little after sunrise. I told my
wife I had come to move her home.
It was with a glad heart that she
heard the joyful news. I moved
[Page 91 of 127]
her to the mill till the Union
folks returned then I moved her
to our home in Union.
We all felt truly thankful to get
home again, and praised the Lord
for His mercies to us, in softening
the hearts of our enemies and over -
- ruling all things for our good.
General Johston established his
camp in Cedar Valley and named
it Camp Floyd. Day after day for
several days their baggage and
provision trains, hauled by 4 and
5 yoke of oxen passed the mill
on their way to [to crossed out] Camp Floyd.
As they ascended the hill south of
the Cottonwood bridge, I could hear
their teamsters crack their big
[Page 92 of 127]
whips, and yell out "Get up there
Brigham," "Get up there Heber" &c.
They had named their oxen after
our leading brethren, in derision.
These yells were generally accompa -
- nied with profanity.
Peace being now restored the people
returned to their homes, and settled
down again to their daily avocations.
In consequence of moving there had
not been as much grain and vegetables
planted as usua,l and what was put
in, had not recieved much care, and
the prospect now was, that the crops
would be very light. But the most
of the people had enough breadstuffs
ground up to do them a year, but
it was all in the south, consequently
[Page 93 of 127]
they were obliged to haul it back.
I will now make an estimate
of the amount of flour made, and
hauled south, from the Cottonwood
Mills, during the six or seven weeks
in the beginning of the "move."
As has been stated, we ground from
14 to 16 bus. per hour day and night,
and made on an average 38 lbs to the
bushel. The amount of flour ground in
24 hours would be,- (say 15 bus wheat
ground per hour, and 38 lbs of flour per
bus.) 1380 lbs. One week's grinding (6
days,) would be 82080 lbs.
Six weeks grinding would be; 492480 lbs
or 24524 tons. Now, as a ton was about
as much as one span of horses, or one
yoke of oxen could haul at a load,
[Page 94 of 127]
it is very easy to be seen how many
loads of flour was hauled south from
this one mill. At this time very few
persons owned more than one span of
horses, or one yoke of oxen.
How much was hauled from the other
mills I do not know. But as the
Cottonwood Mills was situated on the
State road I presume that we done
the greater part of the grinding.
Now as the greater part of this flour
had to be hauled back again, it can
be seen what a vast amount of
labor the "Big Move" cos,t say nothing
about the moving of famlies and
household goods. All this labor was
performed willingly, apparently, as I
heard no one murmer or complain.
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ShapeOn thu [thursday] the 6th July we passed
a grave dug up by the wolves the
Body tore to pieces with the wolves
the name of the person S. Philps
on the 7th we passed another
in a similar situation the name
of person Martin G. or B. Clay
from Vermont, the bodies in these
graves did not seem to be buried
over a foot below the surface.
8th we passed the grave of Dr. Caples
from Savannah, the grave badly tore
up this man is a son in law of Mr
Abbot who was from the same
place last year and was baptized
in the valley on his way to the gold
diggings. And I have since learned that
it was a brother of Abbott son in law
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