Transcript

Thursday, May 19. At noon we left our camp in Keokuk, and in the evening made camp ten English miles out.

Friday, May 20.  We traveled four miles and camped.  Elders [John] Forsgren and C. Christiansen returned with the rest of the cattle to Keokuk.

Sunday, May 22. The remainder of the brethren and sisters arrived at our camp.  It had been a hard trip for them as we had had bad weather the preceeding night.   It had rained hard very during the night and also the day.  A child was born to Sister Andersen. In the morning the brethren and sisters met in Elder Forsgren’s tent.  A song was sung, and prayer offered.  Elder H[erman]. J[ulius]. Christensen spoke briefly, and said that he wished to hear his brethren speak.  Elder M. Johnsen then spoke, and several brethren.  The meeting was closed with song and prayer.

Monday, May 23. In the evening Elder Forsgren called the brethren together and opened the meeting with prayer.  He said that he wished to observe Fast Day tomorrow, with thanksgiving to God. Elder C. Christiansen said he wished the same, and also that he and his house might serve the Lord. Elder H. J. Christensen was also satisfied, and wished to hold such an observance.  He made the proposition and it was unanimously agreed.  The meeting closed with prayer by Elder C. Christiansen.

Tuesday, May 24. At 2 p.m. the Saints met.  Elder Forsgren bowed himself with others and prayed the Lord’s blessings on us.  He spoke briefly, and said that he and his family were united and would serve the Lord, and he wished to hear the brethren express their feelings.  The captains over tens said they were thankful for such a day and wished the Lord’s blessings upon us.  Many brethren spoke, expressing their feelings to the inspiration and comfort of all.  The sisters knelt down and prayed, and the blessings of the Lord were so richly over us, giving us power to repent from all evil.  The meeting lasted until 6 o’clock, when it was closed with song and prayer by Elder Forsgren.  He spoke briefly to us before closing the meeting.  He was well satisfied with the blessings of the day and prayed the Lord’s blessings on us all.

Wednesday, May 25.  The president over 50 called his group together this evening. After a song and prayer, Elder C. Christiansen spoke encouragingly to us and wished us to remember to prayer for our captains.  He wished us to meet every Wednesday evening at 7 o’clock, camp and weather permitting.  Elder H. J. Christensen spoke to our edification and consolation.  The meeting was closed with a song and prayer.

Friday, May 27.  We left our camp ground in the morning and continued on our journey.  In the forenoon we arrived at Sugar Creek and camped there.

Sunday, May 29.  A meeting was held in the morning at which Elders C. Christiansen, H. J. Christensen, Father C[hristian]. Christiansen, M[ads]. Chr[istian]. Jensen, R[asmus]. Johnsen and [Anders] Aagren expressed their thoughts.  The blessings of the Lord were with us to our comfort and cheer.  The meeting was opened and closed with song and prayer. At the afternoon meeting, following a song, Elder P[eter]. Madsen offered prayer.  Elder C. Christiansen said that the best way in which to receive blessings is to be obedient.  He read a vision, and spoke to the comfort and edification of those present.  Elder H. J. Christensen spoke briefly.  Father Christiansen closed the meeting with prayer.  Elder Forsgren left for Keokuk.  In the morning we had a storm, with rain, hail and wind.

Monday, May 30. Elder Forsgren returned, and in the afternoon meeting he told us that we should travel tomorrow.  He said that President Heth had asked him if the brethren and sisters were satisfied with what he had done for them.  He had answered that they were well satisfied, and that if they had the provisions at hand they would give him a present.  All were agreed therein.

Tuesday, May 31. Three companies began to travel this morning, but as several oxen belonging to the third company were lost, they remained in camp on Sugar Creek.  During the afternoon we traveled through Farmington, and camped in the evening.  The weather had been very good, with only a little rain.  Brother [Paul Ernest] Kofod’s wagon, in which were riding his wife and child and Elder Hansen’s wife and child, tipped over in a ditch, but no one was hurt and the wagon was not broken.  All went well; we passed over some high hills today.

Wednesday, June 1.  In the afternoon Captain Justesen’s company came up to us.  Elder Forsgren, who had gone to Farmington, arrived back in camp, and so we broke camp and traveled over several hills to the other side, where we again camped.  Shortly before we stopped for the day it commenced to rain heavily and continued all night, with lightning, and thunder so strong that it shook the ground.

Thursday, June 2. We remained in the same place.

Friday, June 3.  In the morning we pulled out again; passed through Dogs Town, and camped 3 miles from it.

Saturday, June 4. There was heavy lightning and thunder.  We remained in camp all day.

Sunday, June 5.  I was in Farmington.  No meetings were held.  On the afternoon we continued on our way, traveled several miles, when it began to rain and hail, with thunder and lightning.  Brother Peter A. Forsgren, as he was driving up a hill, slipped and fell under his wagon.  The wheels passed over him, and his back and arm were slightly hurt.  10 miles from Dog Town.

Monday, June 6.  We continued on our way again, and camped in the evening.  The weather was good.  We passed through String Town.  1 mile east of Drakesville.

Tuesday, June 7.  It rained some more.

Wednesday, June 8.  Continued on our journey in the morning.  It began to rain before we stopped for noon, and continued steadily, with lightning and thunder through the afternoon and evening, accompanied with some wind towards evening.  We camped three miles west of Drakesville, having passed through that town.

Thursday, June 9.  We continued on our journey and camped in the evening at Soap Creek.  10 miles from our last camp, and 3 miles from Unionville, having passed that town.  The weather was good, very warm.

Friday, June 10.  The weather was good.  We traveled three miles in the evening and camped.

Saturday, June 11.  The weather was good.  In the evening we camped 9 miles west of Doddinsjoid, having traveled 22 miles today.

Sunday, June 12.  A meeting was held in the morning, which was opened with a song, and prayer by Elder Forsgren, who then spoke on the creation of the world; that there were gods who had been instructed by God to create the world.  His words were instructive and good.  Elder C. Christiansen warned and instructed the Saints.  We were happy, and the spirit of the Lord was with us.  Elder Forsgren again spoke briefly, and the meeting closed with song and prayer by Father C. Christiansen.  We continued on our journey in the afternoon and camped 7 miles east of Chariton Pond.  The weather was good all day.  Traveled 7 miles.

Monday, June 13. During the night a child [Sarah Florentine Christensen] was born to Elder H. J. Christensen’s wife.  The weather remained good all day, and we traveled 17 miles and camped, 10 miles east of Chariton.  We passed through this town in the morning.

Tuesday, June 14.  The weather was still good.  Camped towards evening 7 miles west of Chariton.  We traveled 20 miles.

Wednesday, June 15.  Traveled 12 miles and camped on a little stream.  The weather was good all day.  In the evening a meeting was held, which was opened with song, and prayer by Elder H. J. Christensen.  Elder Forsgren spoke to our edification and instruction, followed by M. Johnsen who desired the prayers of the brethren and sisters after having made a confession.

Thursday, June 16.  We continued on our journey this morning, passed by Four Mile Stream and Seven Mile Stream and also Mount Pisgah and the stream there.  We camped in the evening 1½ miles from Pisgah.  Traveled 16½ miles today.

Friday, June 17.  In the evening camped 20½ miles from Pisgah.  Traveled 19 miles today.

Saturday, June 18.  Camped in the evening 22 miles from our last camp, on a place called the Middle Branch of the Nodaway.  The weather good.

Sunday, June 19.  We stayed in camp all day.  Meetings were held in the forenoon and afternoon.  Powerful talks were given by Elders Forsgren and Christiansen, and confessions were made by the brethren.  It was proposed that Priest [Lars Alexander] Justesen be ordained to the office of Elder—unanimously accepted.  He was then ordained under the hands of Elders Forsgren and Christiansen. Sister A. Andersen’s child was blessed by Elders Christiansen and Forsgren.

Monday, June 20.   In the morning we continued our journey, traveled 15 miles and camped on the West Branch of the Nodaway.

Tuesday, June 21.  Traveled 18 miles and camped in the evening by Indian Town.  The weather was good.  We passed over the Nishnabotna River.

Wednesday, June 22.  During the night we had a very strong wind, with lightning and thunder and rain; it rained a little in the morning.  We continued our journey in the afternoon for 10 miles and camped in a place where there was no firewood.

Thursday, June 23.  We started off in the morning, but as Brother Justesen’s horses were missing, we stopped.  He found his horses and returned to camp.  Elder Forsgren called the brethren together to find out who had money to cross the next river—there were hardly any.  When we came to the River Nishnabotna, and started to cross it, it so happened that Pehr Forsgren’s oxen went into the water with the wagon, but as it became very deep they started to swim to shore again.  As they headed for shore the wagon box became loose from the wheels and was left behind.  The brethren sprang into the water with their clothes on and fished the wagon box up.  Petrea Petersen was riding in the wagon but was not hurt, and no one was injured.  However, as the two lead oxen were being hitched to the wagon again they started to run, and stepped on Brothers A[ndrew]. Poulsen and Sören Olesen [Soren Olsen]. 

Friday, June 24.  We continued on our journey, traveled 10 miles and camped.  The weather was good until afternoon, when it began to rain a little.

Saturday, June 25.  We traveled 16 miles and arrived at Council Bluffs, where we camped.  We have arrived here all well and good, having been lead and protected by the almighty power of the arm of God, both men and animals, wagons and tents, wherefore God shall have the honor, the praise and the thanks forever.

Sunday, June 26.  The brethren and sisters held a meeting, which was opened with prayer by Elder H. J. Christensen.  Elder Forsgren said he wished to hear the brethren speak.  Elder Geo. P. Dykes stood up and said he was thankful to God that he had been brought to this place, that the Danish brethren and sisters had also arrived here, and that everything had been so enjoyable and well for us.  He counseled us against talking with any of the people in the town, as there was no place where the Devil had more power than right here, and the people would do all they could to keep the Saints here.  He prayed for the Lord’s blessings on us all.

Elder H. J. Christensen spoke, followed by Father Christiansen, who said he was thankful to God for His hand which had been over us, and that he did not wish to remain here, no matter how much he was offered, as he could have just as well remained in Denmark, but wished with all his heart to come to Zion.  Elder H. F. Petersen acknowledged his weakness and imperfections, and said he was glad to be able to read the Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covenants.  Elder C. Christiansen said he and his house would serve the Lord, and spoke many enjoyable words to our edification.  Elder Forsgren spoke briefly and said he was not afraid of the Devil, and that he wished to speak a little this afternoon, but his lungs were weak.  Elder Dykes closed the meeting.

In the afternoon the Saints again met.  Prayer was offered, following the opening song.  Elder Forsgren talked, and reminded the Saints of their covenant.  He portrayed the wretchedness which awaited those who forsook their covenants.  The meeting closed with song and prayer.

Monday, June 27.  New provisions were received, which were divided out.

Tuesday, June 28.  More provisions were divided.  Niels Pedersen and family left us and would not go on farther.

Wednesday, June 29. The dealing out of provisions was finished, and in the evening the captains and several others were called together in a meeting.  Elder Forsgren offered prayer, and then Elder Justesen said that he had talked with Jörgen Nielsen, who had said that he wished to remain here in Kanesville.  Thereafter R. Johnsen said he had talked with Jörgen Nielsen who had said that there were liars and slanderers among us, and that it was no better among us than any other place in the world.  Elder Sorensen also said that Nielsen did not feel good among the Saints and was not satisfied.  Elders C. Christiansen and H. J. Christensen corroborated with the others statements on the poor conduct of Nielsen and that he was possessed of an evil spirit.  J. Nielsen then stood up and said that he did not wish to continue with us any longer, and gave some excuses which were nothing more than what the spirit of darkness gives to people to support themselves with on such occasions.  Elder Forsgren declared that according to the testimonies which had been borne against Jörgen Nielsen that he was found to be in transgression, and had slandered the Church, and that he could not sustain Jörgen Nielsen in such circumstances as a brother in the Church. It was proposed and seconded that Jörgen Nielsen be excommunicated from the Church, which was voted unanimously.  The meeting closed with prayer by Elder H. J. Christensen.

Thursday, June 30.  Jörgen Nielsen and family left us.

Friday, July 1.  Rikke [Frederikke] Frederiksen left us.  In the afternoon we finished our preparations and traveled to the Missouri River, one mile from Kanesville.

Saturday, July 2.  This morning J. Nielsen, accompanied by a police officer from the city, came to camp to force us to turn over the oxen to him for which he had searched the day before, but could not find [them] as H. J. Christensen had driven [them] off.  The officer stopped Brother Christensen and forced him to return to the city, where he was compelled to pay eleven dollars.

Sunday, July 3.   A meeting was held this morning, which was opened with song and prayer.  Elders C. Christiansen, H. J. Christensen, and Mikkel Johnsen spoke, to our comfort and cheer.  A song and prayer closed the meeting.  Another meeting was held in the afternoon, opened with song, and a prayer by Elder L. H. Justensen.  N. C. Christiansen spoke, to our comfort and encouragement, and bore a strong testimony with the spirit of truth.  C. Christiansen spoke next, being filled with the spirit of God.  After a song had been sung, Elder Christiansen asked if there were any opposed to the uniting in marriage of Hans Jörgensen and Dorthe Christensen.  There were none, and so Elder Christiansen performed the marriage ceremony.

Elder Christiansen then proposed that Jörgen Nielsen, who had already been excommunicated by the council, be excommunicated by the assembly.  It was unanimously consented.  It was then proposed that Frederikke Frederiksen be excommunicated, after having heard the testimonies of three witnesses against her, that she had told falsehoods, had slandered, and tried to lead the Saints away from the truth,— the motion was second and unanimously agreed.  The meeting closed with song and prayer.

Monday, July 4.  The weather was good and we remained in camp.

Tuesday, July 5.  It rained very hard during the night, accompanied by thunder and lightning.  We began to ferry over the Missouri River, and four wagons got across, also several oxen.  The brethren had been building a bridge over a slough a short distance from the river.  This we crossed in the afternoon and traveled a short distance farther, with the four wagons, and camped.

Wednesday, July 6.  We began to build another bridge, which we drove over and camped a short distance farther on.  Several more wagons crossed the river.  We had good wind and weather.  A child was born to Brother [Andreas] Overlade’s wife [Karen].

Saturday, July 9.  All the wagons finished crossing the river, and all oxen except four which should remain, as there was one brother who had been excommunicated and had broken his covenants, and had brought up a case against Elder Forsgren.

Sunday, July 10.    Elder Forsgren arrived in camp this morning and a meeting was called.  A song was sung, after which Elder J. E. Forsgren offered prayer and spoke many things to us.  He reminded us that we were free here to serve the Lord with all our might and strength, and be thankful to Him for having been led to this place—then He would loose our bonds so we could go forward.  Brother Forsgren knew that there were some among us who were not worthy, and they would have to strive for a long time before they could obtain the blessings.  And everyone should not try to do what he thought best after reaching the valley, but take the advice of the president.  He said we did not talk like those who would fall away.  He thanked the brethren for their willingness to work during the crossing of the river.  He wished us all to remember our blessings and to wander in humbleness and meekness.  He felt happy to think that we were here, and said that we had seen enough of the Holy Ghost to understand that mankind must be made perfect; and that when the day comes that they should be baptized again, that they would see and know their imperfections which they had had in their travels, and know that they had not done all that they could have done.  The unworthy cannot take part in the blessings unless they repent.  He spoke of many things which I in my imperfections do not have the power to remember and write.  In closing he prayed the Lord to strengthen us so that we might remain faithful until the end.  May it so come to pass, in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Elder Forsgren then said that he wished to reorganize the company, and desired to lay the proposition before us.  Inasmuch as there were nearly 100 men, he had decided to have 1 captain over 100, 2 captains over 50, 4 captains over 10 each in 4 wagons, and 1 captain over 10 each in 3 wagons—in the first company of 50.  And in the second company of 50—3 captains over 10 each in 4 wagons, and 1 captain over 10 each in 3 wagons.  Elder C. Christiansen felt that this was the right thing to do, and H. J. Christensen seconded the proposition.

Elder C. Christiansen stood up and said he was thankful to God for His guiding spirit, and admonished the brethren saying, “Watch over yourselves and be obedient.”  He was glad that God had appointed His servants upon the earth to do His will, and he wished Elder Forsgren to be with us, be our president, and lead us with all the power which God would give him; and he proposed that we sustain Brother Forsgren as president and give him blessings both temporal and spiritual.  Unanimously agreed.

Elder Forsgren proposed that we sustain C. Christiansen as Captain of 100, H. J. Christensen as captain of the 1^st 50, C. Christensen [Christian Christiansen] as captain of 2^nd 50—unanimously agreed.  The following were proposed as captains of 10 in the first company of 50: Peter A. Forsgren, captain of the 1^st 10, of four wagons; Carl [Paul Ernest] Kofod [Kofford], captain of the 2^nd 10, of 4 wagons; L. A. Justesen, captain of the 3^rd ten of 4 wagons; N[iels]. C[hristian]. Christiansen, captain of the 4^th 10, of 4 wagons; and H[ans]. C[hristian]. Hansen, captain of the 5^th 10, of 3 wagons.—unanimously agreed.

In the 2^nd 50: M[ads]. Chr[istian]. Jensen as captain over the 1^st 10, of 4 wagons; H[ennig]. Pedersen as captain of the 2^nd 10, of 4 wagons (and that he be ordained a Priest); P[eter]. Madsen as captain of the 3^rd 10, of 4 wagons; H[ans]. Dinnesen [Denison] as captain of the 4^th ten, of 3 wagons, and also that he should be ordained a Priest—unanimously agreed.

It was thereafter appointed that Capt. M. Chr. Jensen with his company, and Capt. H. J. Christensen with his wagon should travel this evening to the Elkhorn River as pioneers to build a jerry on which to cross the river.

Elder Forsgren said that everything which would delight the soul would be found in the land of Zion.  The ordinations were performed, and the meeting closed with a song, and prayer by Elder C. Christiansen.

Tuesday, July 12.  In the morning Elder Forsgren went to Kanesville (Jörgen Nielsen’s affair, and had to pay 30 dollars). The rest of Capt. C. Christiansen ‘s company left for Elkhorn River this morning.

Wednesday, July 13. The rest of us started on our journey this afternoon, traveled 3 miles and camped in the evening. We had some rain and lightning in the night.

Thursday, July 14. Early in the morning we started on our way, and camped in the evening after having traveled 18 miles.

Friday, July 15. Traveled 10 miles this morning and arrived at Elkhorn, then traveled 4 miles farther and came to the river, where we crossed with our oxen and wagons in good condition, through the goodness of the man and the spirit which God poured out. The man here was willing to let us borrow the ferry without cost. From the ferry we traveled about 1 mile and camped. We could see the prairie stretching out before us. In the evening Elder Forsgren baptized Rasmus Justesen and [Hans] Peter Justesen at the Elkhorn crossing.

Saturday, July 16. We continued our journey this morning, passed river, and camped in the evening, having traveled 15 miles—we are now 16 miles from the Elkhorn.

Sunday, July 17. Today was a day of rest. A meeting was held in the afternoon, opened with a song and prayer by Elder Forsgren, who then spoke briefly and said he wanted to hear the brethren and sisters. Elder Christiansen spoke, followed by H[erman]. J[ulius]. Christensen, who talked about his son who was run over on July 11th, and he was thankful to God and was satisfied, and hope that his son would soon be well again. H[ans]. Dinnesen expressed his thoughts, and then Father Christiansen stood up and bore his testimony with the spirit of truth and thankfulness to God for having led us to this place. Several brethren acknowledged their faults, and the sisters raised their prayers and thankfulness to God. Rasmus Justesen was confirmed a member of the Church by Elder C[hristian]. Christiansen; Peter Justesen was confirmed by Elder G[eorge]. P[arker]. Dykes. Brother Dykes then spoke to our edification, followed by Elder Forsgren who also spoke words of inspiration and knowledge. The meeting closed with song, and prayer by Elder C. Christiansen.

We made ourselves ready, traveled 6 miles in the evening, and camped. In the evening William [Wilhelm] Andersen was run over by both wheels of a wagon on his chest, but he was not killed, and after being annointed felt better.

Monday, July 11. It so happened this morning that H.J. Christensen’s son fell out of the wagon and one wheel passed over his face, so that his head was somewhat flattened out. His nose was pushed into the head, and he looked terrible. The brethren joined in prayer, annointed him, and he took a bone out of his nose.

Monday, July 18. Traveled 18 miles and camped in the evening on Schell Creek. Had firewood and water.

Tuesday, July 19. In the morning Elders Shurtleff and Wheelock’s companies came up to us. We continued our journey, traveled 12 miles and camped. We had a lot of water and mud to drive through. It rained a little.

Wednesday, July 20. In the morning we journeyed on our way, and after 11½ miles came to a branch of the Platte River called Loup Fork. This stream we crossed over on the ferry, at no cost. We continued crossing the wagons until 12 o’clock midnight, when all were safely over. It rained a little in the forenoon.

Thursday, July 21. We continued our journey 14 miles and camped without firewood. It rained during the night. Water was found 3 miles from camp.

Friday, July 22. At 3 o’clock in the morning we started up again and traveled 20 miles, and in the evening we drove one mile off the trail and camped on Loup Fork where there was firewood and water. We passed by very high sand hills. Bolette Therkildsen was baptized this evening by Priest N[iels].C[hristian]. Christiansen.

Saturday, July 23. We continued on our way. There was water enough on the trail, but no firewood, nor was there firewood at the place where we camped in the evening. The road was sandy.

Sunday, July 24. A quarter of a mile’s travel brought us to plenty of water. We continued our journey for 9 miles through very high hills and a sandy road; then one mile of good road to where we camped by a little steam with good grass. This morning Hans Piil [Pihl] passed away; and at noon M[ads]. Christensen Jensen’s wife bore a son.

Monday, July 25. We continued on this morning, and after 5 miles travel came to Wood River, where there was a good deal of water but no bridge. As a result we had to ford the river, and in so doing some chains and rings broke on account of the heavy pull which was put upon the wagons to draw them through. A meeting was held in the evening, which was opened with a song, and prayer by Elder Forsgren, after which he spoke, and counseled us to be obedient to our captains and not try to give them advice. He gave us many good thoughts. A fine spirit of satisfaction was with us. The meeting was closed with song and prayer.

Tuesday, July 26. We continued on, traveled 16 miles and camped on Wood River where we leave it to go to the Platte River. Had firewood and water.

Wednesday, July 27. In the morning we continued our journey, traveled 7 miles and came to the Platte River; after traveling a total of 8 miles we camped. All along the way there was a good deal of water. We had passed over 2 bridges, in which the streams were high, and then came to a stream where there was no bridge or ferry, and the water so deep that we could not cross.

Thursday, July 28. In the afternoon we continued our journey again one-half mile downstream to a place where a bridge had been built by Danish and English Saints over the stream

Friday, July 29. We traveled 16 miles and camped a short distance from a grove of trees, and where there was water. It was very warm in the morning and in the afternoon it began to thunder, and then followed a cloudburst with very heavy rain.

Saturday, July 30. We started out this morning and traveled 4 miles, when we stopped by a stream and had breakfast. There was firewood here and water. In the afternoon we passed over Elm Creek on a bridge, and after having traveled in all 18 miles, camped by Buffalo Creek. The weather was good.

Sunday, July 31. In the morning Gates’ company passed by us. The weather was good. In the afternoon we held a meeting, which was opened with a song and prayer by Elder Forsgren. Elder Christiansen spoke many things to our joy and enlightenment. Elder Forsgren then spoke and counseled us not to be dismayed if, when we came home to the Valley, we found ungodliness among some, as such a condition existed there among a few more than any other place in the world. But on the other hand, there were many who were just like heaven, and to talk with their wives was just as if one were speaking to angels. He said that we should not say when we arrived in Zion that “I will stay here, or I will go there”, but that it would be appointed them by the presiding council; many other things he spoke to us.

Thereafter, Bolette Therkildsen was confirmed by Eldr C. Christiansen; Brother Overlade’s child was blessed by Elder M.C. Jensen; Brother H[erman]. J[ulius]. Christensen’s child [Sarah Florentine] was blessed by Elder C. Christiansen, and Brother M. Chr. Jensen’s child [Denmark] was blessed by Elder H. J. Christensen. The meeting closed with song, and prayer by Elder M. Chr. Jensen.

In the afternoon we broke camp and traveled 8 miles, where we again stopped on Buffalo Creek.

Monday, August 1. We broke camp again this morning, and after traveling 3 miles, crossed over Buffalo Creek on a bridge. In the afternoon it rained and hailed heavily, accompanied by thunder and lightning. We traveled in all 19 miles today and camped, after having crossed a very bad muddy place.

Tuesday, August 2. We broke camp in the morning and after a journey of 10 miles came to water. Showers occasionally passed over us. We traveled another seven miles and camped on the Platte River.—17 miles travel today. During the night it lightninged and thundered so hard that the ground shook.

Wednesday, August 3. The weather was good. In the morning we continued our journey; for four miles the road was sandy and hard traveling over the hills. In the afternoon we traveled 8 miles and camped in the evening on Spring Creek. The weather was warm.

Thursday, Aug. 4. We continued on our way this morning, and after traveling 16 miles, camped 2 miles from where the road joins with the Platte River. We passed a cold spring by [foreign word] across from [foreign word];. We passed over some sand; the weather was good.

Friday, August 5. In the morning we started on our way again. We passed the road which runs along the river at 6 Spring Creek, which has its source in springs in the hills. We traveled in all 16 miles. The road, in several places, was over sandy hills. The weather was good.

Saturday, Aug. 6. We traveled 12 miles over hills, crossed 2 streams, and in the evening camped by a hill. After we had camped, it began to rain, thunder and lightning, and continued most of the night. The name of the one stream we crossed over was Black Mud. It was one-quarter of a mile wide, but with a good sandy bottom on which we could rive over. C[hristian]. [Ipsen] Munk’s child fell off of the wagon, but was not hurt.

Sunday, Aug. 7. We continued our journey this morning over a very sandy road for 2 miles and camped by a little stream called Bluff Creek. Our camp was a short distance off the road under a hill; we passed the western Bluff. The weather was good all day. In the evening we held a meeting, which was opened with a song, and prayer by Elder C. Christiansen. H. J. Christensen spoke, followed by Father Christiansen. They were filled with thanksgiving and saw the power of God’s spirit resting upon the Saints to their salvation. The latter spoke words of joy and encouragement. C. Christiansen spoke next, filled with the spirit of God. Elder Forsgren spoke of many things. He warned the people not to go shooting with permission of their captain, so that the captains might know where their members were at all times. His words were words of encouragement, warning, and punishment. The meeting closed with prayer by Elder H. J. Christensen.

Monday, Aug 8. In the morning we continued our journey; traveled 3½ miles and came to a spring; ½ mile farther we came to another spring stream. We passed thereafter at 1½ miles fa[r]ther a little stream; 2 miles over some bluffs brought us to another stream, and 1¼ miles farther we came to Petite Creek, and in 1¼ miles to Picanninni Creek, then ¾ mile farther to Goose Creek where we camped on a plain between Goose Creek and Spring Stream—traveled in all 10¾ miles today. In the afternoon Priest C. Christiansen was ordained an Elder by J. E. Forsgren and Christiansen. He died shortly afterwards. In the afternoon it began to rain in torrents, with strong lightning, and continued until just before we camped.

Tuesday, Aug. 9. We started on our way this morning, and traveled 16 miles. At the 9th mile we passed Rattlesnake Creek. Camped at a stream 6 feet wide. The weather was good; we drove some of the way by the side of the river, and had a good road in various places.

Wednesday, Aug. 10. Traveled 14 miles. At 10½ miles we came to some very high bluffs, and the way was sandy. Wolf Creek was near the bluffs, and we crossed. We camped in the afternoon at Watch Creek. This morning 60 Indians visited us and we re given something to eat. It was cold, and in the afternoon we had thunder and lightning.

Thursday, Aug. 11. We traveled again in the morning for 7 miles and nooned Ash Hollow, then drove 8 miles and camped on the west hills, near Sand Hill Creek. The weather was good; the road in places was sandy. In the evening the Elders were called together in Council. Elder Christiansen offered prayer. Brother Christiansen said that complaints had been made against Brother [Bendix Michelson] and Sister [Mette] Bjer[re]gaard, and wished to hear Brother Justesen, who was captain of the company they were in. Brother Justesen said that Sister Bjer[re]gaard had spoken hot-tempered words against Brother Forsgren, and that Brother Louis had [not] conducted himself as he should have done. M. Johnsen testified that Brother Bjer[re]gaard had spoken improper words and unlawful words against Brother Forsgren, and that they had said that they wished to remain here rather than to travel farther in this manner. O[le]. C[hristian]. Nielsen testified to the same, and said that it was an unanswerable method of procedure, and that no matter whether he was president or not it was an unanswerable method of procedure for a wife to go and drag the child. Elder Christiansen asked Bjer[re]gaard what his feelings were, and he answered in very hard words that he would not be Louis’ or Forsgren’s dog. C. Christsen said that they had ridden on the wagon as much as they possible could, and that Brother Louis had acted only as a brother towards them. H. J. Christensen testified against Bjerregaard, that he had often come to him when there was something the matter, and very often there had been something the matter, and also that he had been dissatisfied the whole journey. Brother Christensen said also that he did not feel that he could sustain Bjerregaard as a member of the Church. C. Christiansen corroborated the testimonies given. It was proposed and unanimously sustained that Bjerregaard be cut off from the Church because he had hardened his heart and would not acknowledge his sin. Sister Bjergaard asked humbly for forgiveness and was forgiven. The meeting was closed with prayer by Elder Forsgren.

Friday, August 12. We started in the morning and drove the whole day, making 19 miles, and camped by Crab Creek.

Saturday, Aug. 13. We traveled 15 miles and camped one mile from the river and 3 miles from where the road joins the river. The way was sandy.

Sunday, Aug. 14. We broke camp in the morning, drove 5 miles and camped a short distance from the river. In the afternoon we held a meeting, which opened with song, and prayer by Elder Forsgren. O. Svendsen, H. J. Christensen, M[ads]. Chr. Jensen, W[ilhelm]. Andersen, C. Christiansen, J. E. Forsgren spoke words of counsel and advice to us. We were told to first take care of ourselves and not try to take care of others; that we should control our thoughts so that we may be blessed and come well and happy home to Zion and be more clean of heart than we now are, for there are those in Zion who could see such things. We were told that we should pray to God, and not go immediately after praying and sin, but take advantage of the promises which had been made; live so that God would be our friend, and he would be if we so lived, and in conclusion that we should remain faithful to Jesus Christ. The meeting closed with song, and prayer by Christiansen.

Monday, Aug. 15. In the morning we continued our journey and traveled in all 17½ miles. Camp was made in the evening a short distance from the river. It was very hot.

Tuesday, Aug. 16. We continued our journey and traveled 19 miles; camped four miles east of Scotts Bluff.

Wednesday, Aug. 17. Traveled 23 miles and camped in the evening. It was very warm during the day. Camp was made 18 miles west from Scotts Bluff. We repaired some wagon wheels in the evening.

Thursday, Aug. 18. Traveled 12 miles and camped by the river. It was very warm, the road was somewhat sandy, and there were many grasshoppers.

Friday, Aug. 19. Traveled 18 miles and camped by the river 6 miles below Laramie crossing. We left the road at noon to stop by the river, and in camping again at night left the road so as to be near the river. The road was heavy, warm and sandy, and the slight wind blew the dust about us, making it quite miserable. Gates’ company are before us.

Saturday, Aug. 20. We continued on our journey this morning, and after 6 miles travel came to Laramie, where we crossed the Platte River. We then drove 6 miles more and camped, ½ mile from the Platte River. It rained a little in the afternoon. The day was warm. Brother Daley’s company passed by us.

Sunday, Aug. 21. The Sabbath was observed as a day of rest. A meeting was held in the afternoon, which was opened with song, and prayer by Elder H. J. Christensen. L. A. Justesen, H[ans].C[hristian]. Hansen, Hans Pedersen and N[iels].C[hristian]. Christiansen spoke. Then C. Christiansen said he was glad to hear these brethren bear their testimonies that that they were led by the Holy Ghost; they were humble. He advised us not to be anxious about the temporal things when we arrived in the Valley, for God would give the righteous all they needed. He concluded by asking the Lord’s blessings on us all. J. E. Forsgren was the next speaker. He was filled with the spirit and said many enjoyable things; The devil had demanded more of God than he would give him, and Michael, the Archangel cast him out of Heaven, so now he is upon the Earth to prove mankind. He is in those who do not live right, who go with bowed and heads and appear to be angry, and they come and say that he or she is so bad and has done this or that against me and it was of the Devil. Brother Forsgren gave the law that if anyone took any of the horses which were about the camps of the Indians that he would be considered a thief and be cast out of the camp. The meeting closed with song, and prayer by Elder Christiansen.

Monday, Aug. 22. We continued our journey, traveled 12 miles and came to Indi Creek, where we nooned, and then drove 5½ miles farther and camped on Cold Spring Creek in the evening, where there was timber. We passed by Geth’s company this morning. The road today led over high hills and deep valleys, and was rocky. Mountains were around us also.

Tuesday, Aug. 23. We traveled 12 miles and camped by Little Spring Creek. The weather was good; it begins to be cold during the night.

Wednesday, Aug. 24. Traveled 12 miles again and camped in the evening by the Platte River, 46 miles from Deer Creek. The weather was good.

Thursday, Aug. 25. Traveled 19 miles and camped one mile from the La Bonte River crossing. Sister Thorpp [Thorpe] was run over this morning. This evening we drove through red sand.

Friday, Aug. 26. In the morning we continued our journey and drove over many hills; crossed 3 streams and camped one mile off the road, where we looked for grass. However, as no grass was to be (b found) here, on Boyd Stream, Elder Forsgren decided to drive farther. We found a good camping place by La Prele River, a valley with mountains on one side. The water was one mile from us.

Saturday, Aug. 27. Traveled 18 miles and arrived in the evening at Deer Creek, where we camped. The weather was good until afternoon, when it began to rain a little; during the night a strong wind arose.

Sunday, Aug. 28. The weather was good; this was a rest day. Elder E. Forsgren opened the meeting in the afternoon with prayer. Forsgren spoke, followed by Carl Kofod [Kofford], who counseled us and expressed his feelings. He felt that he should take watch over himself and not over any others, and do all the good that he could. Elder Christiansen said he was happy and satisfied. Elder Forsgren then spoke and counseled us to live the Gospel; that each one should see more to himself and not so much to other people. Parents should raise their children correctly, because as the parents are so will the children be. He said that when we did all that we could on the journey we would be happy and not have any ill feelings when we arrived home in the Valley. Many other things were spoken to our joy and encouragement. He advised us to keep with the wagons. It was thereafter proposed that if anyone had anything against the marriage of Hans Larsen and Ane Marie Madsen that it be made known. As there were none, Elder J. E. Forsgren performed the marriage ceremony. The meeting closed with prayer by Elder C. Christiansen.

Monday, Aug. 29. Hermann [Herman] de Plade [DePlade] passed away. We remained in camp to repair our wagons.

Tuesday, Aug. 30. Still remained in camp to repair wagons.

Wednesday, Aug. 31. This morning we continued our journey again, and after traveling 10 miles camped by a stream in the evening, Crooked, muddy creek. Ane [Anne Katrina] Poulsen and Karen Poulsen were baptized this evening by Elder L[ars]. A[lexander]. Justesen.

Thursday, Sept. 1. Traveled 18 miles and then drove down on the old road to the river and camped where there was good grass.

Friday, Sept. 2. In the morning we broke camp, crossed over the Platte River, and then over some very high hills. In several places the road was bad. In the afternoon we came to a poisonous spring, drove a short distance therefrom and camped, having traveled 13½ miles. There was not much grass.

Saturday, Sept. 3. We continued our journey again, and in the morning passed by the poisoned water, crossed over some very high hills, and drove in all 18 miles, when we camped in the evening a short distance from Bad Slough.

Sunday, Sept. 4. We continued our journey, traveled 18 miles and camped in the evening on Sweet Water River. The road was sandy; we had good grass.

Monday, Sept. 5. We traveled 10 miles and camped in the evening on Sweet Water, 2 miles east of a deep ravine. The weather was good. We passed by Devils Gate; in several places on the road there was heavy sand. Good grass was found at our camping place.

Tuesday, Sept. 6. Traveled 16 miles and camped in the evening 1¼ miles from a high gravelly bluff. The road was sandy, with several hills. We passed by Alkali Lake.

Wednesday, Sept. 7. We continued our journey, drove 15 miles and camped in the evening ½ mile from the 5th crossing of the Sweet Water. In the morning we passed the gravelly bluff. Ane Christine Larsen and Ane Larsen were baptized by W. Andersen.

Thursday, Sept. 8. Traveled 21 miles and camped where the road joins the river and fords it. Had water and grass.

Friday, Sept. 9. We traveled 16 miles and camped at Strawberry Creek.

Saturday, Sept. 10. Traveled 11 miles and camped on Sweet Water.

Sunday, Sept. 11. A day of rest was observed. It rained a little in the forenoon but was good weather in the afternoon. It was very cold during the night. A meeting was held in the afternoon, which was opened with song, and prayer. H. J. Christensen, R. Johnsen, C. T. Sorensen, P[eter]. Madsen, C. Christiansen and Elder Forsgren spoke to us, giving us encouragement and advice. Brother A. Poulsen’s 2 children were blessed by Elder C. Christiansen. Brother R[asmus]. Larsen’s two children were blessed by Elder H. J. Christensen.

Monday, Sept. 12. We continued our journey again for 14 miles and camped 1½ miles from the crossing of Pacific Creek.

Tuesday, Sept. 13. Traveled 22¾ miles and camped on Little Sandy.

Wednesday, Sept. 14. Early in the morning we drove 8¾ miles and came to Big Sandy, and later in the afternoon we drove 17 miles and camped on Big Sandy.

Thursday, Sept. 15. Traveled 10 miles and camped on Green River. There was good grass where we camped.

Friday, Sept. 16. We continued our journey, traveled 4½ miles and crossed Green River, then traveled 2½ miles farther and camped; good grass, firewood and water.

Saturday, Sept. 17. Traveled 18 miles and camped off the road at Blacks Fork.

Sunday, Sept. 18. Traveled 4 miles and camped at Hams Fork. The road was good; it was quite cold.

Monday, Sept. 19. Traveled 16 miles and camped on Blacks Fork, fourth time.

Tuesday, Sept. 20. Traveled 14½ miles and camped at Fort Bridger.

Wednesday, Sept. 21. We traveled 15½ miles and camped west of Muddy Creek on the hill.

Thursday, Sept. 22. We traveled 9 miles and camped on the Summit of a ridge, 8 miles east of Bear River.

Friday, Sept. 23. We traveled 12½ miles and camped by a creek, 4½ miles from Bear River.

Saturday, Sept. 24. We traveled 15 miles and camped by four springs in Echo Canyon, 4 miles from Cache Cave. The weather was good and not very cold.

Sunday, Sept. 25.We traveled 9 miles and camped by a stream in Echo Canyon.

Monday, Sept. 26. We traveled 13 miles and camped on East Kanyon [Canyon] Creek.

Tuesday, Sept. 27. We traveled 8 miles and camped by the stream which we crossed 11 times. I tipped the wagon over.

Wednesday, Sept. 28. We crossed the stream 11 times; the road was bad. Traveled 10 miles and camped in the canyon 1½ miles from the Top of the Mountain. It rained a little during the day.

Thursday, Sept. 29. We traveled 6 miles and camped on Last Creek.

Friday, Sept. 30. In the evening we entered the Valley of the Great Salt Lake, the land of Zion.