Transcript

Was hindered at Winter Quarters on account of getting grinding until some of the company had been gone 2 weeks uncertain whether we leave thursday the 17 of June[.] a tremendous sharer grinding at night

fridey loaded our waggon

Saturday 19 drove on to the prairie to bait our horse team while our Small company hunt for Stray cattle we found ours after hunting most all day[.] drove cattle a few miles & campt[.] Br Brignaam [Brigham] waited till morning & then was obliged to leave without finding his oxen[.] brother Greenwood left 3 cows

Sunday we all rolled on to the horn[.] distance 27 miles[.] Swam our cattle[.] took our waggons over on a raft[.] as we pressed on we observed the brethren a digging a grave under a liberty pole or a standerd upon a drapesy[.] they told us he had been killed the day before by an indian -- his name was wetherby[.] they buried him at sunset with out coffin[.] of course prayer by Generall Rich

Monday 21 our company comprising the rest of the Calafornia [California] encampment & consisting of about 100 waggons, left the horn for to join the remaining body[.] Some 12 or 15 miles ahead we arrived in season & without any unusuall occurrence[.] the day warm & were obliged to leave some few cattle[.] when we had traveled about 10 miles we observed a few miles above a beautiful white flag waving over the praries which evinced to us we neared the encampment[.] upon a near apearance we we beheld the people of Joseph & lo they were numbering with their encampment. Streched along the Platt[e] presenting to the view a sight at once novel & grand

Tuesday 22 our whole body were put in motion consisting of some 600 waggons with order to drive 3 abreast[.] some little confusion the captains not understanding the order alike[.] Some captains of hundreds draw off thear men in single file others in Platoons Supposing them to be more composed[.] they finally traveled by hundreds in line observing the order (abreast distance) about 17 miles[.] encampt late[.] the rear neve[r] reached their encampment till dark

23 got a late start[.] 10 miles crossed Shell Creek[.] campt 200 of us $1.00 fee[.] they would be late & campt the other side[.] the rest 4 miles ahead

24 Capt Grant drew off his men in good style at 7 o clock before brother Taylor was ready which caused some feeling[.] br T ordered him to stop till he passed but Grant moved on fearing the road behind him & what was better still[.] getting out of their way we overturned Parley in 12 miles & campt at 2 oclock[.] the rest came up a few hours after -- just as well off for ought I [.....] if we had been 3 hours behind them[.] they called a meeting at 5[.] blamed Grant for moving with out order or for not observing order to stop

the meeting gave generall satisfaction[.] every body seemd willing to do right wherein they know what right was[.] but it was observed that those who went forward had no idea of the length of time it took to bring up the rear at night when the teams were tired & some giving out & if the l/ teemes stopt 2 hours by sun[.] the rear must camp after dark every time & there matters stood Thursday night

friday got a late start[.] traveled 12 miles in double file exceeding dry & dusty[.] spoted some traders[.] asked them if they knew whether those bones they found & buried the week before belonged to an Indian or white man[.] they said to [be] a Pawnee & was [xxxx] killed by the Mohews [Mohawks.] no accident[.] expect a generall reinforcement in the shape of a 9 pounder

Saturday morning 26 we have been traveling for 7 days by hundreds in double file[.] it has been exceeding dusty perticually for those on the leeward side[.] as it happened our fifty had traveled 3 days in their dust[.] Yesterday morning our Captains proposed changing sides that the other fifty might have the benefit of the dust their neighbor might kick up[.] they submitted with a tolerable grace informing us at the same time they should pray for a change in the wind but as it the <boistrous> God of the wind as if determined not to be swerved from adressing turning equal rights <continued to be> if any thing harder than ever. they traveled on tolerably patient complaining now & then that we blew up a terrible dust[.] we told them we pitied them for well we knew how but we could not help them &tc[.] to day they must have the clean side again denying we had paid them all off in one day[.] for we have traveled an hour or so somewhat dissatisfied with their ideas of equal rights when all of a sudden the wind took a short tack blew strong from the north & peppered them unmercifully[.] it was now our turn to laugh & say alas dirty face & how do you like the clear side[.] the Lord is for equal rights &tc[.] we treveled on in a bright pace very merry of course[.] crossed a small stream called the looking glass & camped on beaver creek 6 miles from Pawnee for the Sabbath

Sunday meeting at 2 oclock[.] as I passed down the camp <I saw> whole lines of clean clothes[.] thinks I to myself we are like the [-] who always worked Saturday before [lie...d.] as I passed along there a little bend I saw poles sticking here & there & every where resembling a bean patch[.] as I drew nearer the bean hills proved to be a man not neighbor[.] dirty face of yesterday but clean men[.] Several others gathered with their [....] strings strewed in the air about their heads & very easily be mistook for bean poles[.] there was a very respectable congregation assembled but our crowd could barelly be recognized[.] so much hard soap & water changed the scene[.] after being seated a few minutes some one sung out at the right go ahead[.] on looking round I saw boys rolling waggon wheels & a little ferther on a huge fiers of bellows therein & a black Smith Shop & some 15 men in it & fineally we meeting <here> were in it[.] Shurly it equalls Sabbaths out here on the prairie[.] we herd a very good meeting[.] father Smith spoke about taking care of our children so the Indians need no steel them[.] br. Lz young br. Snow & others[.] we are now in the neighborhood of Indians[.] keep a strong guard[.] Some 24 out of each watch[.] Meeting at 6 to take into consideration the order of traveling the ensuing week[.] after much deliberation it was motioned & carried that the 1st 100 retire in the <box or weets> rear & Sec one to the end of the chapter[.] that each 100 may have a chance of breaking the road & going to bed without supper[.] P P Pratte remarked that he for one was willing to be the other[.] manifested a less magnanous spirit[.] General Rich objected if he went behind he should have to have more teams[.] brother Crisman remarked it was well spoken & if they who went behind a little had to be helped to a more teams they who went behind all the time must be helped more abundently or be left &tc[.] when will all the Saints learn this great & important lesson that all things whatsoever ye would others should do unto you do ye even So unto them

Monday & Tuesday passed on very quietly[.] good weather & good roads after we make them[.] gone passed the Missionary Station & even the Pawnees deserted village[.] we travelled as far as this last year[.] at that time the S[i]oux had been down and burned a great portion of their city[.] they repaired it again a measure with our assistance[.] they have been upon them again[.] killed some 20 of their men & burned the residue of their city[.] it contained about 4,000 inhabitants[.] some of their lodges were Spacious & convenient & constructed with considerable ingenuity

wednesday 29 we are following up the loop in Search of a ford

thursday Stoped about noon & the captancy went in Search of a ford[.] after riding up & down 8 or 10 miles they found a tolerable ford but a mighty crooked one[.] the loop is about a half a mile circle[.] the reed company came up & knowing they wanted be the last to go over drove down to the river & camped for the next day[.] As we drove down further moving through there lines to the ford they presented to our view the appearance of Some busy Street in cities with all manner of business going on & all manner of merchandise before their doors[.] We all got over without accident & drove out into the plains & campt without wood or water except the more provident person who like the ant that prepared his meal in summer had been careful to fetch along a little of the two things needful[.] we made out tolerably well for Supper & breakfast & friday morning Started a bee line for the Platt[e]

[Friday] we travelled along over a dry sandy prairie with a strong wind filling all eyes with dust[.] Taylor leading the train onto bee line[.] Sometimes resembling the windings of a Serpent which upon a motion was made[.] then Taylor making his pretty straight another one breaking ahead & seeing the circle motion we Straighten them and suiting the motion to the word cut cross lots & heaved a mile or so[.] at night a tremendous Shower & we campt again on the prary[.] last night went to bed Supperless & what was worse got up this morning breakfastless[.] Some crying among the children[.] we churned & drank the buttermilk[.] Father Garr burned his hen coop & made some thick milk[.] for how they all made out is not my province to know but presume they managed as ingeniously as the circumstance would allow[.] we hitched up & commenced march when we observed the front is in the rear & another Swung out nevermind the rear is in front & we are in order Still[.] the order of march during the storm & the night had been completely reversed & br Pratte who had been traveling in the rear all the week was seen way ahead wending his way very quietly towards the Platt[e.] we crossed a small Stream on a gravel bridge & birdeyed on for the timber[.] we moved tolerable slow a good many hinderingly[.] towards Night the men got pretty hungry & some cross & mudy[.] a great many noticing some pretty [apt] ones[.] one old man who in all probability felt necessary to leave his bones the other side of the Mountains after waiting our big younger brethren a long time with all due humility & patience motioned that he be put in the hundred that would go ahead[.] we reached the Platt[e] about dark & campt for the feeblest <which were the young>[.] we have made about 170 miles in 2 weeks

Sunday wash iron bake & meeting officers[.] met at 6 to talk over the order of march the ensuing week[.] when it was resolved that we roll by hundreds according to circumstances that the prairies were wide & if our company could pass the others without interfering they Should have the liberty &tc to do & might camp when it came night with bringing up the rear but Should endeavor to camp together on the Sabbath

July 5 we are to start this morning at the firing of the cannon & that isnt to be fired till there is more teams to haul it[.] we are all ready & waiting for the Speech of the old gentlemen[.] we are to cross a small stream & each company has built a bridge[.] so the one that gets ahead to-day is the best fallow [fellow.] all ready whip in hand <being> being now[.] She rolls & we are on the way to Californue [California.] we have traveled about 15 mile to day[.] campt in good season[.] our company came out a little ahead[.] of course it being our turn to go ahead according to previous agreeing went Struck the pioneers trail & came across a guide board which informed us they were here the 27 of april & they called it 217 miles from winter quareters[.] br Wallace broke his wheel & a man in our ten killed an antelope

tuesday 6 some little delay in our camp about Starting & we fell a little in the rear[.] Parley's company at any rate all moved ahead[.] we traveled over four miles when Generall Rich with the Artillery came along side on our right[.] as our forward teams came to a bend they also came to a halt[.] when one man sung out do you see that[.] see what said another[.] why Rich is turning here[.] a few of them got ahead of our forward teams & have shot into the road & stopt b[oth] our columns & here we are with a Slew on our left[.] consequently we have nothing to do only stand still while he passes[.] why in the devil said another didn't R show himself a man & make his own trail as he had good Gro[u]nd to make it on till his rear teams passed our front then moved on about his business & let others move too[.] another sung out its a better man than R that crowds me out of the road[.] I am [-] to him <PO> but he soon got out of the way & our teams were on the move when order was somewhat restored but one [-] fellow uttered this important prophesy that when we come to your head Taylors men serve with the same [s....] we traveled on very quietly erstwhile forgetting that the [-] had been disturbed[.] when all of a sudden there was a halt way ahead & Mr Prophet hollowed out[.] didn't I tell you So[.] after waiting for some 20 or 30 of Taylors teams to pass our captain walked up & ordered his men to march Saying he would<nt> suffer them to be hindered in this kind of Style but the order for march did seem to have its usual good affect & they went on [....] not waiting rather unceremoniously upon for what they denominated Taylor [move] & after a many arguments pro & con they voted the move [-] ungenerous unfriendly & unamerican & for a while T was very unpopular in one camp[.] [S...] 50 per cent below [pres..] about this time capt G & T were enduring still & held[.] espesley T claimed the shod trail by right of a previous vote[.] Said G was in his shoes & had taken his road which was about equal to Abimelechs men taking abrahams well whereupon G called a halt until T should be put in possession of his rights or power as they all passed and cut sticks for our encampment being fully satisfied in our own minds that a person may sometimes surrender up his rights & yet be the gainer besides later coming thereafter pleasure a great pleasure deriving from a consciousness of having waived a claim to oblige a fellow overture[.] at dark the capts were call together for coun<cil>[.] they seemed to act upon the principle that soft words turned away wrath & by the time the council broke up they seemed in quite a genall humor[.] the 7,8,9 & 10 have been Sick & barely know what has transpired but have passed several guide board which the pioneers set up[.] some in the shape of a buffalows hade [head] with incription thereon showing by what hand this poor fellow lost his life & other information[.] have generally campt where we have plenty of water but no wood to boil it with that being on the other Side of the water[.] have seen hundreds of buffalows & killed quite a number[.] found 2 fine horses[.] I weighed some waggon wheels[.] one clerk having w[e]ight all[.] the men in camp were dreest up in their shirts to help gathering the cattle was on retiring to same 700 who had got in a flurry & all ran out of the yard[.] Some new comers & one death & so on & so forth & campt for the Sabbath making about 75 miles

Sunday proved as usual to be anything but a day of rest

Monday & Tuesday jogged along about as usuall[.] no wood but plenty of buffalow chips which make a very good substitute[.] killed more buffalow & found another of the pioneers guide boards or rather a buffalow hade [head] written over with red chalk saying we were 300 miles from winter qu[a]rters[.] LD

Wednesday morning 14 at break of day we were excused from our slumbers as if by one Earth quake[.] we soon perceived the trouble is with the cattle who had taken fright & were rushing with tremendous fury to the gape tramping down all before them[.] we soon had plenty of captains & while some were hallowing [hollering] one thing & some another a few turned into calling them as if to make them believe there were not much the matter and they were going have a little salt which seemed to have a good effect[.] Strange sights began to present themselves which added to the scene[.] men in their underwear & women in their night clothes mingled together indiscriminately endeavoring to allay the fury of the cattle[.] one man in front of our waggon jumpt out of the back side of his & started for California[.] after running a few rods he remembered <his better half> & turned round & called her[.] just as she struck the ground another man thinking her for his wife retired her into her waggon[.] they both continued to weild their influence which it seems was about typical for several minutes[.] She running in her tracks when the man that was interfering came to his sense & resigned in favor of a more legal claim[.] the other man came to his senses about the same time & concluded not only to let his wife stay & go with the rest of us but to stay himself[.] after examining the ground the damage was not so as they first imagined[.] there was one cow killed[.] Several have their horns knocked of[f] & were otherwise crippled[.] Capt Snow had 2 wheels mashed[.] the guard was knocked down & a wheel was drawed over his leg[.] one other guard a boy seeing some of our men running after the cattle took him for an Indian & forgetting his instruction drew up his rifle & blazed away[.] when the bell rung for day this incident kept us on the ground till the next morning

15 & 16 traveled by 50ties[.] divided the stock & formed 2 circles[.] the face of the country rugged[.] the feed most all used up by the buffalow[.] 1st 50 killed one[.] no wood to night no chips no feed no nothing much

Saturday 17 last night the cattle got in a flurry again & all run out of the yard[.] they gethered them in when they all ran out again[.] this morning there are some 50 or 60 head missing

Tuesday 20 we have been waiting till now & have sent hunters in every direction but as yet have heard nothing from them[.] our cattle we have concluded to move on & join the main body who are some 20 miles ahead waiting for us & there wait the result or rather the return of those men who have just been sent out. on Saturday the females met together for meeting[.] Sister Elizia <Snow> Presiding[.] we had a very interesting time[.] just at the close of our meeting we were informed that 4 men had crossed the river & intersected our lines bringing inteligence from the Army & pioneers[.] the men tell tremendous buffalow stories[.] they say they have seen thousands & thousands & hund[red]s of thousands herding together & the appearance of the prairies do indeed justify the story[.] there have quite a number been seen feeding very quietly in sight of our encampment

wednesday 21 today noon we were met by men from the other encampments bringing some 30 head of cattle to supply the place of those that were lost & said they were going to move on Slowly[.] herds of buffalow in every direction halt them[.] every now & then have found quite a number of cattle & horses among them

22 traveling over a rugge[d] country[.] sandy bluffs crossed several slews & streams of water[.] upset one waggon[.] cool weather & campt[.] no wood

friday 23 raining which injured the chips[.] if it was a hardship for Jerimiah to bake one cake with dung how much more for this mighty people to bake their bread for weeks

Sunday we came up with the rest of the companies[.] they have had several weddings & several children born[.] have found several letters left by the pioneers &tc[.] this morning there were 10 men came to our camp from the pioneers & all kinds of intelligence[.] <Some of them going to winter quarters by whom we sent letters> Samuel Brannan who left New York with a Co had sailed to California settled his Colony & he had here made his way into the interior even to the Mountain pass & found our pioneers[.] he tells a doleful story of a company from the States turned Mobbers who were caught in the mountains during the winter frozen & perished that is to say 50 out of 80 by starvation[.] he says he with others sent them provisions but they were so far gone & so delirious & so intent on eat one another that they gave no heed that 11 men & 6 women shouted over the snows to the settlements[.] the men all perished but one[.] the women all survived[.] this stirs us to dilligence & indeed we have always considered our situation a criticle one[.] they tell us we are a month behind all the calculation of the pioneers besides triple in number[.] there must be some 2000 souls & some 3000 head of stock but must rely on the righteousness of the campe & the army of Jehovah [let] what will come

on Saturday we passed an encampment of Indian hunters belonging to the Sou[i]x Nation situated the other side the river[.] they their warriors came over the Platte & marched up in a line of battle as if seeking an acquaintance that they might know whether it was friends or foes who were invading their territories[.] Showing they were prepared for peace or war our people met them with provisions feasted them shook hands <[s......]> with them & I suppose we are from henceforth to be friends unless we have a falling out[.] they gave us to understand that they were going to travel too accordingly when our lines were fairly strengthened

Monday Morning we found we had a very strong reinforcement[.] their pony & dod [dog] Carriages presenting quite a contrast to our mode of conveyance[.] the Children Soon got acquainted attracted at first by curiosity & in a very short time were so thick we could barelly pick them out[.] the Squaws appeared anxious [.......] with the ornaments of the <nation> astride their genteel ponies who were also decorated with red & blue fringe tassels & beads which had a tendency to revive the spiritual wife system & caused many a joke to be cracked at their expense[.] the main body with their ponies which are almost innumerble are moving up the river on the other side

26 & 7 two good days drive without more accident[.] one axeltree broke[.] bro Taylors oldest boy run over & very badly hurt[.] no wood no timber for the last 3 weeks[.] I have not seen wood enough I was a going to say to make one winter fire

28 Spoke Some white men from Oregon & made a good days drive & campt[.] wind & rain[.] no wood[.] I suppose when we get fairly learned we can cook without either wood or chips[.] here we go like a mud turtle who carries all on its back with every thing in our waggons to eat drink or to lay on to Sow or reap with & wood & water to cook

29 started at 6 & drove about 20 miles[.] one very sick man in our camp

July 30 friday a beautiful morning besides being the same day of the month & also of the week in which I was born 30 & 4 long years agone[.] travel about 14 miles[.] passed the Court house & Clerks office and campt opposite the Chimney rock[.] situate the other side of the Platte[.] Some of our people crossed the river to take a nearer view[.] they say it is Clay instru[e]d of rock[.] that it is 300 feet above the bed of the river[.] it makes about as much show at a distance as bunker hill monument[.] Spoke Some white men & hear again from pioneers[.] we are now 80 miles from Larimie [Laramie]

Saturday 31 traveled a few <miles> when we found ourselves decidedly in the Garden of the lord or rather in the Lords flower garden[.] for several acres around there was naught to be seen but the most beautiful of flowers pink yellow & snowy white[.] as if flora had been apprised of company & had arrayed herself accordingly[.] we drove on over a barren Country producing nothing but grasshoppers[.] campt for the Sabbath

Saturday the 7 of August we reached fort laramie[.] have been sick and hardly know what has happened except that we have had ha<rd> work to get along the roads[.] sandy & of a dead level[.] a good many lame cattle & their necks very sore[.] hot weather & very little feed &tc[.] Soon we met Col Carney [Kearney] & his escort from California consisting thereby of our people[.] burried one woman out of our company[.] Stopt one day to pull over our wagons that we might lighten up & reached the fort neerly discouraged & reached fort Larimie [Laramie] why <the remains of> an old fort of some unburnt brick a trading house & a few white men without wives & appear to be of but little more camp experance then Schlemihl with out his shadow[.] we here cross the Platt[e] & commenced to wind among the black hills we crossed

Saturday [noon] drove 5 miles & campt for Sabbath

Monday done some smithing

tuesday & wednesday climb hills[.] wednesday very warm & were obliged to leave several cattle[.] it seems hard that after serving us to the utmost they must be left on so barren a place[.] we left one & also bro Snow[.] we on parting give ours 4 quarts of meal[.] br Snow went a mile or 2 & brought his two pails of water & did not get into camp til dark

thursday 12 made a tolerable days drive[.] over took our first 50 at kimble springs[.] <40 miles> Capt Nobles wife delivered of a daughter[.] all in Captain Smoots company had 12 horses taken by the S[io]u[x]

friday & Saturday set tires

Sunday our 50 rolled out[.] the first Sabbath we have travelld & it proved to be another of an [.....dy] day although we distanced about 20 miles[.] we commenced on a long hill 90 rods long where we had to double teams[.] about noon Sister [Martha Jane Frazier] Williams was taken sick but were obliged to travel or stop where there was neither wood water or feed[.] we traveled on over a very rough road till dark & no camping place yet[.] just at dark she was delivered of a son[.] about this time we found ourselves in a bad fixe behind the rest with a heavy load no macthes [matches] consequently no light & she in a very precarious situation[.] we traveled on as fast <or better> as circumstances would permit till within a mile from camp we was met by a midwife with light[.] the child was dead & we got into camp a little before midnight[.] They broke down a waggon by us on the ground

Wate all day Monday[.] just at night we hiched up with the intention of going 4 miles but were met by Some men from the pioneers saying there was no feed so we campt after making 1/2 mile[.] they brought letters & inform us that the pioneers have made a halt in the valley of the Salt Lake which they in their letters term Jehoseph and have commenced ploughing

tuesday 17 we passed the red hills about noon[.] we passed a mound or stoneheap covering about an acre of ground & 40 feet high[.] at first sight it looked as if it might be the work of evil[.] I climbed to the top & plucked a branch of cedar that I might have something to remind me in time to come where I was on the 17 of august 1847

wednesday we drove 9 miles & campt because there was no feed <or trees> that we could reach that night[.] made out a list of our force to send the pioneers[.] is cold raining

19 drove nearly 20 miles[.] never reached feed till dark[.] passed a fresh grave[.] we learned after that it was a boy who had been run over in bro. Taylor's com[.] we came into camp during a tremend<ous> shower[.] went to bed without supper

friday 20 we stayed on the ground all day[.] rested and fed our cattle & started on

Saturday 21 and I drove 15 miles & campt on the Platt[e.] very good feed

Sunday drove 15 miles & reached the upper ferry[.] good feed but a certain mineral on the ground of which the cattle partake which make them very sick[.] some died

Monday forded the Platt[e.] passed some other companies[.] drove 10 or 12 miles & camped <no wood> about 2 o clock, no feed ahead for some distance[.] several companies came up & campt with us[.] a child in br Smoots com got his leg broken this morning[.] the last we heard from our other fifty they were at kimble springs[.] had lost 8 yoke of oxen & were hunting them &tc

tuesday 27 this morning our herds were all missed & we got a late start[.] a good many sick cattle[.] broth Taylor called for 2 yoke they had let us have[.] we drove 12 miles were obliged to camp[.] there was so many <cattle>[.] there were so many cattle giving out where there was no feed[.] no wood

the next morning we had lost 6 head of cattle besides which Ta took making us 10 weeker in a day[.] Other companies lost cattle suffer them to be poisoned with the mineral of which I spoke

wednesday 25 <as there was no feed> we yoked up & started before breakfast in hopes of finding some thing for the cattle a breakfast[.] we drove 9 miles[.] found a little patch of poor feed & campt for the day[.] cold enough to freeze any body to death & nothing but prairie sage to make a fire with[.] things look dubious enough here[.] we are approaching the mounta<in> pass but very little feed[.] what few cattle are left to us are failing fast & if winter should set in prematurely we are in a bad fixe to say the least of it

thursday 26 a little warmer[.] drove 9 miles & campt near saleratus. here 2 more oxen fell down in the yoke & died today

friday 27 passed Saleratus lake[.] drove 5 miles & campt on the Sweet water[.] it was with difficulty that we could roll at all through the sand & to all appearance we shall soon make a halt with out being commanded[.] this lake seems to be a natural curiosity & puzzles us all to account for it[.] it has the appearance of a shallow lake of water froze to the ground & can be cut up in the same manner as ice & is just as white as the driven snow[.] thereto is an incrustation of the surface which looks like saleratus but that next the ground is more clear resembling saltpeter or salt [soda.] its taste & properties as far as we can discover are that of saleratus but it is evident there is some property in it which helps to kill the cattle[.] 2 or 3 more died to day[.] friday evening a council resolved we roll as a company just as long as we can if we dont get more than 2 miles a day & perhaps the other companies will assist us some

Saturday Capt Snow & Taylor went on to overtake the companies ahead that they might council together & see what could be done brother T company then[.] we tolerable good feed on the Sweet water & our company remains on the ground to day

Sunday 29 2 more dead oxen but we made out to roll about 7 miles[.] passed Independe<nce> rock which was something of a curiosity written most all over with names & dates within & without with red paint blue & yellow while others cut their names in the rock[.] it seemed as if everybody that had passed for the last 2 years had took it upon them to inscribe their names whence arises the propensity in men[.] among other names we recognized some belonging to our people[.] one said he was born in Gibralter old Spain May the 1st 1800 & passed this place August 27 1847 in the 1^st com of emigrants for the Grand basin of the Salt lake

Monday 30 3 more dead oxen[.] it is 10 weeks this morning since we left the horn where we were organised[.] we have ma<de> about 2/3 of the journey & lost about 1/3 of our cattle[.] we are 356 miles from the place of our destination & have got to a [-] to say the least & some think to a forward but we shall soon see very good feed last night & we made out to roll 7 miles with the exception of a few teems who stopt behind & rolled in the next morning[.] the1st that have ever been left alone over night[.] I believe one cow died in the road & several more cattle gave out

tuesday 31 it was thought that we would not as a company roll to the next feed today[.] voted we lay still & rest our teems[.] tolerable good feed on the Sweet water[.] about noon Capt Snow returned with one yoke of oxen & said that Parleys camp were 60 miles ahead but received a letter from him in answer to one written from Independence rock by bro Taylor advising the rear teems camp to equalize rest & recruit their teems & move slow and do the best we could while he moved on & would see who would be done intimating that we might receive assistance from the valley[.] Snow saw a man from the pioneers and informed him they was on their return to winter quarters that he with some others had been sent on ahead to hunt for direction[.] about the same time Snow returned our other fifty came up within 2 or 3 miles [to]day & campt[.] they found their lost cattle15 miles below Larimie [Laramie.] had only lost 1 since

September 1 wednesday our other 50 [......] alongside & campt[.] the officers of both 50ties come in with the captain of the 100 when Capt Snow affec<ted> informed them of his situation[.] while he had exhausted all his strength will & ingenuity to move the people under his command but was now so reduced that as a body he could remove them no further that he had exhausted his 10s & had not suffered the strong to run off & leave the weak & then made his demands on the capt of the 100 & requested him to do the same by the 100 that he had done by his 50 & not suffer the organization to be broken up[.] he seemed inclined so to do but when he called for the vote some of the capt were stiff & would not back him up & he is not very much in favor of compeling people to keep their covenants[.] some part of the company seem willing to do every thing that lay in their power while others seemed more inclined to climb a tree & give the bees another opportunity of whispering this good piece[.] advise never to associate with a man who in the hold of danger will desert his friends[.] this evening we received a letter from br Taylor instructing Grant to equalize the corn & for President Loren[zo]Young to see that it was done[.] they accordingly gave the demand on the Capt of the 50[.] he turned to Pres Young & demanded his teams[.] told him they were at his service that we thought that was rob[b]ing Peter to pay Paul as he belonged to our com. & had only been rolling with them a couple of weeks[.] out of respect they finely look on our 20,000 & furnished 2 yokes of dry cows which with the yoke Snow obtained enable us to roll[.] Grant rolls with us again & he took on a few 100 as both 50ties were yoked & ready to roll[.] the word came that Capt Grants wife was dying which hindered us a while[.] the 1^st 50 moved on & after a little She thought she could ride & we moved on the road[.] very sandy & hard wheeling[.] we made about 6 miles & come again on the Sweet water[.] very good feed[.] did not overtake the other 50

Sept 2 this morning bro Grants babe dead & she failing[.] one cow dead[.] we traveled 6 miles[.] met about 65 brethren pioneers & soldiers returning to their families[.] they told us they had not bread stuff enough to give 1/2 ^th of their company a half pound a day[.] we delivered to them 650 weight of salt & 180 weight of bread stuff[.] they let us have 4 yoke of oxen & one horse which strengthens us considerably

Saturday 3^rd Buried the dead babe[.] crossed the Sweet <water> 3 or 4 times[.] drove 10 miles & campt[.] cold enough to freeze water over night

Sunday laid still till noon[.] drove 6 miles

Monday 5 we have 11 miles to go [to]day before we reach feed[.] one dead ox to start on[.] we drove about half the distance in a cold raw wind when it began to ha[il.] when we had made 13 miles Sister Grant had another poor spell[.] a few waggons stopt[.] the rest moved on[.] we reached feed just at dark <cold & [...... ..... a]> be[.....] many deadley [.......] down in the yoke <& were left for dead> & Both notwithstanding his appeal to a name has been severe[ly] afflicted with the fever [ale]

tuesday 6 we were awoke by the cry of Snow & sure enough our fears were realized for it was snowing considerably & nothing but sage to build a fire with we hitched up & drove about 10 mile & campt where we [hav we..all] the mountains on either side covered with Snow

Wednesday the 8 we were met by some stranger which were us to [hidies] us to our encampment & by & overtake our other 50[.] father Francess wanted to spend the night with us[.] we done so[.] when we reached our encampment the 1^st 50 & [.....] was already encampt[.] very wild & windy[.] had wood[.] the Quorum of the 12 were in this camp upon their homeward route[.] we rejoice very mu<ch> to see them notwithstanding the inclemency of the weather

council this morning thursday 9[.] it was observed very early that there was 49 horses & number missing supposed to have been taken by the Indins[.] about day light a party of men set out after them[.] they got on the trail followed all day & found 5 which had been left by the way[.] this kept us on the ground[.] finely morning nothing[.] thursday evening the 12 gave us a description of our new home & <more>

friday 10 took our leave of the Pioneers[.] traveled 12 miles[.] very windy[.] no wood sage here nothing but sage

the 11 rolled 10 miles to the Pacific Springs[.] sage [......] for fuel

Sunday 12 10 miles[.] spoke Commander Stockton from California[.] he had a party of some 40 or 50 men & some 200 horses & mules[.] more sage[.] a productive country surely that dont afford wood every [-] to boil the tea better in a hundred miles

friday 17 reaching Green river[.] forded it about noon & commenced a new lesson[.] it is one of the prettiest springs of water I ever beheld[.] we followed it down 5 miles & campt on it[.] finely the <weather> warm & pleasant[.] for the last 4 days have had nothing occured of importance[.] we have birdeyed along at about 10 miles a day[.] passed big little & dry Sandy[.] lost 3 oxen & broke one waggon & &tc[.] our lesson this week extends from green river to fort bridger 60 miles[.] we are about 175 miles from the valley

wednesday 22 reached fort bridger which consists of 2 houses a fort a store & seven or 8 lodges[.] a few trademen with squaws for wives & one white woman who was left by the Oregon com about a year ago[.] she married a frenchman & has one child[.] here we overtook our 1^st 50[.] they laid by one day on account of loosing cattle[.] this com received a few yoke of cattle from the valley & bought a few from the french

thursday traveled 13 miles & both 50ties campt together[.] exceeding windy & dusty

friday 24 poor feed[.] the cattle scattered but we got started about 11 oclock[.] a strong head wind which made it so dusty we could barely travel[.] one ten stayed in the ground in hopes the wind might cease and came into camp after dark[.] some trouble with br Shumway & the capt of 50 about rolling which hindered the whole line nerely 2 hours[.] we campt about dark making about 8 miles[.] water neer 2 miles <distance> off[.] the wind enough to deter a fellow[.] herd of the dallys & delays of the camp at this season of the year are enoug to discourage one & I feel to join heartily <in an unsettled part of America> with Irishman when he prayed that the lord would remember in mercy the poor Irishman who was 7000 miles from his native country & 300 from any other place

saturday 25 made 12 miles then reached bear river[.] here hilly windy & dusty[.] at night the wind ceased[.] warmer[.] this days drive very hard on the sick especially Sis Grant[.] we received 3 yoke of oxen & a span of horses

Sunday morning 26 we were summoned in haste to br Grants waggon[.] we found her sinking fast[.] about 8 oclock she gave up the ghost[.] her last words were Sisters I thank you <for> all your kindnesses[.] forgive me for my impatience & after a little Lord Jesus receive my spirit[.] it was thought best as we were near the valley to furnish a horse team & have Capt Grant & a few others go ahead & take her into the valley & bury her[.] according to his request the brethren split up some chests & made her a coffin while the Sisters proceeded to lay her out after the order of the holy Priesthood in fine linen clean & white & by a little afternoon we were again on the move & reached needle point 10 a.m. all encampt together

Monday 27 br Grant left us early for the valley[.] distance 75 miles[.] we got a late start traveling 5 miles[.] found several 100 weight of freight belonging to our 50 by the way side which had been left by the other 50[.] this induced us to camp early

tuesday 28 Made a good days drive

wednesday 29 some delay as several in Capt [Hunters] 01 [10] about shifting loading[.] some fearing but we traveled[.] made a tolerable days drive considering the roads and campt on the weaver [weber] 3 miles from the ford[.] we are winding over [..ny] hill & climbing mountains

thursday 30 cattle lost one[.] 10 ready to roll but captain Vance he got permission to roll & rolled out[.] Captain Yates found his & his 10 rolled that they might have an opportunity of getting over the hard places before the next came up[.] forded weaver [weber] made 7 miles campt

Oct 1st had sideling road passed the cannon & several broken wagon which had been left by the way side as signals to beware[.] made 7 mile & campt on west kanyon [canyon] creek

Saturday 2 crossed the same creek 10 or 15 times[.] saw broken waggons cariages & another cannon by the way[.] met bro Grant from the valley with more teams & campt making about 17 miles[.] he says he saw corn sold in the valley for 8 dollars per bushel

Sunday 3 about noon after rissing above [divers] hill got a peep into the valley[.] traveled 10 miles over mountains & campt 14 miles from the valley Monday 4^t