Transcript

Transcript for Sarah M. Cannon journal, 1857 May-September, Folder 1

President Taylor remained with us untill Wednesday organising our company which consisted of ninteen ox wagon’s and two carriages the company was organised as follows[:] Captain [Jacob] Hawfines [Hoffeins] as Captain of the company, Martin George as Captain of the first ten and G[eorge].W[ashington]. Mousley as Captain of the second or Delaware ten Joseph Foreman as Chaplain[,] Br [Matthew] McCuein [McCune] Captain of the guard and Titus Mousley Captain of the herdman. and on the following Saturday afternoon we made a start for Florence with very wild cattle inexperienced drivers etc. our journy consisted of five miles. the following day which was Sunday in the afternoon we started again[.] the cattle were something better than the first day.

The next morning Monday took an early start but did not travel far on account of inexperienced cattle and drivers

Tuesday morning started again after a very pleasint nights rest in the camp[.] ground there was a man the owner of the ground came and priviledged us to take fuel as much as we needed and desired some of the priesthood to administer to a brother whose name I think is Fisher and whom was sick

Wednesday Morning May [June] 10 started precisely at the appointed hour which was seven O clock[,] Captain Mousleys ten leading[.] traveled well[.] camped at twelve o clock[.] the last ten had not all come in—we waited over two hours for those behind and Washington started accompanied by Br George J[ohn] Taylor in search of them[.] found them fast in the mud broken an axil and consequently the company was obliged to camp for the remainder of the day whilst they put in a new axil for Br [George] Gingy [Ginge]

Thursay 11. started about half past eight. detained by the broken wagon of yesterday[.] passed through the most beautiful country[.] some handsome houses were to be seen and evidence of good taste[.] passed through a handsome villiage called Brooklyn at which place Pa’s carriage stoped[.] we entered a store and were soon asked where are you travelling[.] Pa told them to Utah they said you had better stay and assist in building our villiage to which Pa replied no indeed[.] he did not sell his former home to allow his means to benefit the gentiles[.] he intended to do all he could for the interests of mormonism[.] encamped about two miles from the villiage above named,

Friday 12 Started at half past six in the morning[.] not very clear but a prospect of rain cleared away and proved a splendid day[.] stoped for dinner as usual[.] the company travelled better than usual[.] they seem to be improving in experience[.] encamped on the open plain[.] there was water near but no fuel[.] we all seemed lost on that account but the goodness of God provided for our want and as an old gentleman was passing with a wagon load of wood he called to the children to come to him and he then gave them wood sufficient for cooking supper and breakfast which kindness will never be forgotten by me[.] numbers came to see us and ask questions with a request to stay for our evening’s meeting[.] accordingly Jos[eph] Foreman spoke to them for a considerable time had good attention from sensible person’s.

Saturday 13. started early and travelled within one or two miles of a handsome town called Newton[.] encamped near the banks of a handsome stream just in sight of a camp of Kansas emigrents who had kept either just before or behind us

Sunday 14 left the camp a quarter of eight and passed through the handsome town spoken of yesterday[.] encamped on the banks of a stream about Six miles from the town at six[.] had preaching by Jos Foreman Chaplain, to quite a congregation who seemed to have suffectient [sufficient] interest in the gospel to hear. very good behaviour[.] retired at nine oclock. to rest

Monyay [Monday] 15—Started at six Oclock[.] travilled ten miles[.] at noon encamped on the banks of mud creek where we found a splendid spring[.] started again after dinner and travelled ten miles[.] encamped on the banks of a beautiful stream[.] had a violent thunder storm[.] rained violently[.] could make no fire on account of the wet

Tuesday 16 started about seven[.] had a very wet day yet occasional sunshine[.] miserable roads[.] got along well considering the disadvantages of the rain. We reached fort Des Moines about six oclock[.] encamped near the city in the rain[.] had a great number of visiters among whom was an acquaintance whose name is William Day from Delaware[.] we were very glad to meet him as he is a nice man[.] when he was told a Mormon camp was passing through the city he followed to search for us, he came to Des Moines about six weeks ago, after wishing us a pleasant and prosperous journey and congratulations exchanged we separated,

Wed 17 this morning we found our cattle were over half strayed away[.] diligent search was made and at dinner we were ready to started having the good fortune to find everyone of the lost cattle although so many were missing[.] travelled about eight miles through the worst roads we had been called to pass[.] encamped on the banks of a pretty stream[.] had supper and meeting as usual retired early.

Thursday 18 Started at six and passed through the handsomest country I ever behild[,] paria’s [prairies] decked with varied flowers. and in the midst of a wide spreading pararie we observed a beautiful grove[.] we thought it had been trained by a skillful hand to suit the taste of the possessor instead of being in the wild domein of nature[.] my heart exclaimed how beautiful how wonderful thou art sweet earth. Oh how my heart rejoices in pursuing the pleasant path of duty[.] encamped on the edge of North Coon Creek[.] had a pleasant night[.] S

Friday 19 Started at six and crossed the Creek by ford[.] a splendid ford[,] the water clear and not to deep[.] crossed Middle Coon and travelled about twenty miles[.] had good luck and all things passed off well

Saturday 20 Started at six and travelled well[.] stopped to dinner[.] started again and made good time having travelled twenty miles[.] at three oclock encamped on the open pararie[.] had early supper and just about sunset we beheld four Missionarys from the vally[.] their names were [blank space][.] supper was prepared for the weary travellers as they had crossed the plains to Florence by hand carts[.] our meetings were joyful and yet sorrowful for seperating they to labour among the gentiles, how rejoyced were their hearts when on raising a hill they beheld the Mormon Camp at its foot, retired to rest at nine.

Sundy 21. Started at seven[.] travelled well although a child of Br [John] Andrews fell out of the wagon and the first wheel passed over his body[.] his name is Nephi Andrews aged about seven years[.] travelled the distance of about twenty miles[.] pleasant day[.] all enjoyed ourselfs well[.] passing through a beautiful contry

Monday 22 . Started at the appointed time[.] travelled well being cool[.] the cattle were lively and got along first rate[.] passed through the town of Lewistown[.] quite a pretty place and rapidly improving[.] the people crowded round to hire some of our folks offering good wages if they would stay[.] some were almost ready to stay[.] travelled about twenty four miles and encamped just out of town

Tuesdy 23 Started at six and travelled quite well not so fast as usual[.] rather warmer for the cattle[.] passed over some great hills and pleasant vales beautiful flowers to improve the appearance of the prospect diversifing and beautifying the surrounding object[.] traveled about seventeen miles and encamped near the river called Little Jordan[.] had quite a shower to cool the air and the evening passed maraculously away as there was no gentile to infringe upon our right which was a treat to us as we have almost become tired answering questions people have no business to ask[.] after a pleasant meeting retired at ten to rest.

Wednesdy 24. Started at six and travelled well although very warm[.] halted for dinner[.] the cattle were almost overcome on account of the great heat[.] camped for the night near a beautiful stream

Thursdy 25 Again started at six[.] cooler than yesterday[.] more pleasant for travelling[.] encamped for dinner on the Missourie bottom near the spot where the Mormon soldiers were drafted in forty six. viewed the spot where a few short years ago in compliance with the co[u]ntrys call men left their weeping families to fight for that contry that had exiled them from its protection on account of the religion of heaven. encamped for the night in Bluff city a beautiful town of considerable magnitude[.] were visited by quite a number of gentiles and three gentlemen of our acquaintance two from West Chester[,] one from New London[.] they were very much surprised to see us there and yet happy to meet an acquaintance[.] to[o] polite to ridicule Mormonism and yet did not fail to request Pa to stay and then with his influence to improve their city[.] to this he replied oh: no: staid to meeting[.] retired in good season to rest

Fridy 26 Started at six and traveled over some of the steepest mountains I ever could have thought it possible to pass[.] met Br John Taylor who came from Florence to meet the camp and whose happy smile illum[inat]ed our way and whose presence is ever a joy and comfort[.] those who are honoured with his society encamped on the bank of the mighty Missourie but feared it to[o] late to ferry our wagons across the river[.] were obliged to cross the river for water for culinary purposes[.] Pa and Washingtons family staid in Florence as they had entered the city expecting we would likewise do so

Sat 27 at six began to ferry the wagons across the river and encamped on the top of the hill where there were two others camps[,] one of whom is expected to travel with us[.] came on a heavy rain which made it somewhat unpleasant[.] visited Br Langton and took dinner[.] returned in the carriage to the camp[.] remained in the wagon untill the rain was over[.] after supper Willie & I accompanied President Taylor in a walk to the highest summit around where we viewed the camp’s and the city of Florence with many other objects of beauty and interest[.] retired at ten to rest

Sunday 28. beautiful clear yet warm[.] passed the day in camp busey. after tea the girls Nellie Amanda & Willie rode with Br Taylor to visit the graveyard of the saints near the city of Florence[.] it contained about six hundred graves. after meeting retired to rest

Mon 29. Were very busy washing ironing cooking etc[.] clear and warm[.] just as we were about to retire we were soluted by a splendid seranade from the citizens[.] the music was splendid[,] the evening beautiful and everything delightful, President Taylor P [illegible] Young and three [illegible] other bretheren took supper with us

Tuesdy 30. Finished washing and ironing[.] were busy preparing to start on the morrow. Pa [Titus Mousley] and Ma [Ann Mousley] visited Omaha city[.] found it really beautiful[.] retired to rest after survice

Wednesdy July 1st we bade adieu to civilization and started across the plains in company with some of the St Louis saints[.] found some of the teams who had started before broken down having upset and broken some of the running gears of the wagon[.] were somewhat detained on account of inexperienced cattle from those teams that were added to our number[.] retired to rest early not being well[.] President Taylor his son George [and] Br Miller and his boy took supper with us

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Thursdy 2 Bade adieu to President Taylor and those associated with him as they were going with mules and consequently much faster traveling would be done by them[.] we seperated preying mutually for each others safty and prosperity not only untill we meet in the peaceful home of the saints but through life[.] travelled well considering we had two new teams of St Louis saints in our company whose cattle as well as drivers were inexperienced[.] overtook a wagon belonging to Br Cuningham overset[,] broken guide[.] the men went to work unloaded and mended[.] set up loaded and started[.] travelld such a distance as to make us now twenty-seven miles from Council bluff City

Fridy 3 started in good time[.] travelled well[.] reached Elk horn about six oclock[.] ferried our teams across one at a time in about two hours. the current is deep swift and not very pleasant to ferry[.] encamped for the night.

Fridy 3 started about seven or eight and travelled about thirteen miles to the Platt[e] river[.] passed the liberty pole a flourishing villiage right in an Indian country[.] a flag was blowing and as we passed they cheered us I suppose on account of the American flag which floats at the head of our train[.] encamped beside the Platt[e.] had to use the water from the river generally but we sent our carriage back to the village to get water which was very good[.] overtook the St Louis company who were to travel with us through the indian co[u]ntry[.] our company now consists of thirty nine wagons[,] first rate people having been added to our number

Sat 4 rested from travelling[.] washed ironed & baked[.] attended two meetings and a musical entertainment consisting of dancing singing etc[.] prayer by President Hart[.] benediction by Jos[eph] Foreman[.] retired to rest at eleven and represided ourself by sleep

Sundy 5 arose about five[.] prepared for a start[.] morning service half past seven[.] started at eight[.] travelled all day[.] pleasant fine cool day[.] encamped for the night[.] after meeting retired to rest.

Mondy 6 started at seven and travelled about fifteen miles[.] encamped early which gave the sisters a chance to bake and cook which by the bye is quite necessary for comfort and convenience[.] travelled slower than usual

Tuesday 7 started at half past six[.] travelled well[.] we have seen no Indians for the past four or five days[.] an incident connected with the Indians I will here relate as they have been very friendly with us[.] we returned the compliment in the same manner[.] they called at our table for refreshment and accordingly I was making lemonade which I offered to one who had watched the process of preparing and to whom I had handed a chair[.] he seated himself with great dignity and took in his hand the cup I offered but would not touch the drink untill I would drink with him[.] I began to drink from another cup but he handed his to me as much as to say drink from this[.] I took it[.] drank and returned it[.] he drank said good squaw with many gestures of satisfaction[.] he drank exclaiming good[,] good[.] encamped on the Loup fork[,] a splendid place[.] a good spring of water and everything very[,] very nice except the muscutoes [mosquitoes] which were very troublesome

Wed 8 Started at half past six[.] travelled well but just as we were about to encamp for dinner Br Langtons team was overset by a woman passing in front of his cattle and frighting them[.] his family were in but not hurt[,] only badly frightned, after dinner started again and travlled well[.] encamped near Beaver settlement having travelled twenty good miles[.] met with Br Sharp formerly of our branch in Delaware[.] reti[r]ed at ten to rest

Thu 9 At half past eight began to ford the Loup Fork river which was very wide and in some parts swift[,] others quicksandy[.] got across very well although some of the Sisters who forded the river on foot were almost overcome by fatigue through the swift current[.] encamped on the western side of the river for the remainder of the day and night. retired to rest after meeting

Friday 10 Started again on our journey[.] travelled untill about eleven oclock when a thunder storm came up[.] stoped for dinner and untill the storm should be over[.] a difficulty here occurred between the two companies when after a while a reconciliation took place although a difficulty arose between Br Taylor teamster and the Captain[.] I never witnessed such a struggle which ended by the Captain tore the mans cloths out of the wagon and left him on the plains alone[.] the last the camp seen of him he was kneeling in prayer[.] we travelled the distance [blank space] miles and encamped late at night without wood or other conveniences

Saturday 11 Early this morning a committee of Elders came from Genoa or Beaver settlement accompanied by the man whom was left on the plains yesterdy a council was called[.] the captain forced to acknowledge the great wrong he had done promised to do better in future and lead the people with more of gentleness[.] remained in the camp all day

Sundy 12 Started at about seven[.] passed through some very pretty contry and some places where there was not one particle of grass as it had been burned off with the parari [prairie] fire[.] encamped for dinner and here visited or went to see the corps of an aged Sister [Brown] who had been subject to desease of heart and died from fright by her husband being kicked by one of his oxen[.] the kick did not injure the man but she witnessed the scene and died from fright exclaiming my husband will be hurt[.] she leaves no family except the husband[.] her age was sixty three[.] traveled the distance of sixteen miles and encamped for the night as there was a violent thunderstorm coming and indeed of all the storms I ever witnessed I think this the most distressing[.] however we were forewarned by sufficient time to get supper which had become quite a consideration to the traveller.

Monday 13 Discovered on search a great number of our cattle were missing as also a pair of horses that belonged to Br [David Simpson] Huffaker of the St Louis company[.] search was made and the missing cattle and horses were found[.] the sister whose remains have been deposisted beneath the parari sod leaves two children in England to morn her loss[.] remained in camp all day on account of having a great distance to travel ere we come to water[.] had a splendid meeting this evening[.] retired early

Tues 14 Arose a few minutes past three[.] started five minutes of six having a heavy rain and no water in view short of twenty two miles encamped for dinner[.] had good grass for the cattle[.] started again and travelled on untill we came to Parari [Prarie] Creek[.] rode in the carriage this afternoon as Ma was not very well and wished to ride where she could lay down[.] just after our encampment for the night we were called to receive a little stranger in our midst who if fortunate would yet call me Aunt. Gertie M.H. Forman’s child, a girl, very fine. Mother and daughter doing well[.] retired early to rest after service

Wed 15 Started off about half past six and travelled untill we came to a ford to cross the creek[.] had good luck in crossing and encamped at dinner time near water for cattle[.] encamped for the night on Pararia [Prairie] Creek

Thurs 16 Started early and crossed Pararia Creek and encamped for dinner near a place of water for cattle and crossed Wood river on an old bridge and encamped near the shore of the same[.] a splendid place to camp[.] good water and wood[.] retired to rest for the night. threaten a violent storm from the thunder and lightning but the rain passed over and a cool wind refreshed us[.] splendid to sleep

Frid 17 Started at half past six[.] travelled well[.] encamped for dinner where there was no water either for man or beast[.] at four or five oclock we drove to a river I think the Platt[e] and watered the cattle[.] they were almost famished with druth [drought] after which we drove four miles to the Elm Creek and encamped for the night[.] a splendid camp ground[.] retired for the night

Sat 18 Started at six oclock and travelled to a fine watering place[.] encamped for dinner[.] warm but more pleasant air than yesterday.

Sunday 19 Started and travelled a short distance from the old road on account of hearing of the misfortunes of Capt Martins company as they had a very bad stampeed[.] on account of Buffalo being so numerous the cattle became frighted as they were hitched too ready to start in the morning[.] they broke two wagons to pieces and lost fifteen head of cattle[.] we met three wagons returning to Genoa to wait another season each wagon had only one yoke of cattle and their load was mostly gone[.] sorrow filled my heart as I gazed on the wreck of misfortune. Surely the Lord our God has been good to us in thus preserving us from danger and misfortune[.] encamped on a small stream for the remainder of the day[.] washed and had a splendid bath at Sunset[.] the lady’s enjoyed it very much.

Mon 20 Started and travelled the distance of twenty three miles on account of water and then encamped after dark without grass wood or water

Tuesdy 21 Started at four oclock and travelled about four or five miles[.] encamped for breakfast near the Platt river where the stampeed of Br Martins company took place[.] visited the place of destruction and death as two persons were killed a man sixty four and child four years of age[.] traveled well the rest of the day[.] encamped for the night near the river

Wed 22 Started about seven oclock[.] late on account of looking for an ox belonging to Br Snow and which had been strayed[.] dined on Buffalo for the first time[.] encamped near the river for dinner[.] remained the rest part of the day in camp on account of some of the hunters having shott a Buffaloe about five miles distant[.] accordingly a wagon was unloaded and they started for the prise [prize.] returned about seven oclock when the meat was divided and all parties satisfied with the super-abundance of fresh meat[.] retired late having been ironing and baking

Thursdy 23 Started at six and travelled well[,] the day being cooler than usual[.] encamped near the cool spring which is really beautiful and so refreshing to the thirsty traveller[.] the water boils up from a bed of sand so as to afford drink plenty for the cattle[.] surely our God is good for his mercy to us in our unworthyness in causing a fountain to burst forth as it were on the sandy desert[.] I feel to say Lord we will praise the[e] whilst life and thought and being last or immortality endures, retired to rest at ten[.] all well

Fridy 24 Arose at half past three[.] breakfast before the God of day had shed his resplendant ray’s over the calm face of the morning[.] started at six and encamped hear the Platt river having passed the beautifulest scene[r]y my eye’s ever rested upon[,] the bluffs on each side[,] the wild flowers beautiful to behold[.] the air redolent with odor[,] the calm still waters of beautiful lakes[,] all, all serving alike to awake an adoration to that God at whose word we have left the happy scenes of childhood years to repair to the mountains with the saints of light.

Sat 25 Started about half past five[.] cool day[.] splendid for travelling[.] travelled the distance of twenty-two miles some parts of which was very sandy road[.] encamped in good time having forded several streams[.] retired early in good health

Sundy 26 Arose early. pleasant morning cloudy and threatnes rain[.] travelled the distance of about two and a half miles over sand hills the most terrible I ever beheld[.] encamped on the banks of the Platt river for dinner[.] this morning had news from Br J. Taylor’s he having passed these sand hills on the thirteenth of this month.

Mondy 27 Started early and travelled well[.] our cattle very quiet to all appearance but on the afternoon of this day I was called to witness the most terrific of all scenes[,] a stampeed on the plain[.] the cattle started all most all together and Oh my father[,] my heart sickens as I recall the scene and my soul is grievd in memory of the painful occurrance[.] I beheld men thrown[,] woman leaping from their wagons[,] children screaming as team after team ran on in wild confusion dashing headlong on the wild parari without pouer to impede their progress in the wild scene of apparent death[.] God gave me presence of mind sufficient to remain in my wagon which I did and alone except the unseen guardian who in God’s wisdom did not leave me alone but shielded me from the shafts of the destroyer[.] I set or remained unhurt and beheld the cattle stoped and their affright calmed in answer to my fervent prayer[.] after the wagon in which I had been riding was stoped and my driver who had been knocked down and allmost knocked senceless had overtaken me I alighted from the wagon only to witness the most teriffic of all scenes[.] my sisters loved and dear had all jumped from the wagon and Nellie and Willie were badly injured[.] in their fright they jumped from the wagon and weather [whether] some of the cattle had steped in our dear Willie face and on the side near her heart and streaming with blood and crying for help while near her was Harry [illegible] fainting in view of beholding Willie thus suffering a little further and Amanda was endeaveraning [endeavoring] to restore Nellie who had in falling hurt her back and being in poor health was illy able to endure the injury recieved. Amanda who also jumped had hurt her knee and shoulder but fortunately the carriage had remained behind and the horses knew nothing of the fright and yet in the all my heart exclaimed Lord we will praise thee for thy goodness[.] thou has shielded us from death[.] thou hast taught us a bitter lesson on the power of satin [Satan] and his designs to overthrow thy saints[.] thou has stood by in the hour of triel [trial] and thy arm has protected us in a maraculous manner[.] and now Oh Father we pray thee through thy son to accept the heartfelt gratitude of all and enable us to serve thee faithfully in time and eternity: encamped for the night but just as were about to retire our cattle stampeded again; in gratitude to Captain [Thomas Sirls] Terry I must say his kindness will ever claim a memory and through the ceaseless ages of vast eternity will I reverance him as a ministring angel to those endeared and suffering ones of my Fathers house his skill in attending[.] his faith and power in God and many acts of kindness by day and night shall ever claim my faith and prayer’s and should opportunity ever offer me to turn from him a bitter cup in life my vow is now to do so and may God preserve him in the truth in health[,] strength and the pleasant preformance of every duty untill we shall all regain the presence of our Father from whose presence we are now exiled that we if faithful may dwell with him eturnally.

Tuesday 28 Arose not very well from excitement and anxiety[.] remained all day in camp[.] were visited by Indians noble and true[.] they deeply sympathised with us in our bereavement or distress of the sisters and some of them remained around the bed where Nellie and Willie and watched untill night[.] one wept and said he loved the pale faces of those by whom he was surrounded and would prey to the good Spirit for their recovery[.] the girls better and the men sixteen in number went in persuit of the cattle lost

Wed 29 the girls seem better today[.] remained in camp and were visited by a tribe of young Indian children[.] Oh how I love their society and although so ignorant of their language I love to behold them[.] the tribe is the Siou[x]

Thursdy 30 the girls seem better but still not able to move unless lifted[.] no news of the cattle untill night when a part of the men returned for provision as some of the men had run out of eating material[.] the lost cattle numbered forty of which number Pa lost three[.] retired at eleven to rest.

Fridy 31 It was deemed wisdom to remove from where we were now encamped and accordingly the cattle were divided and we moved the distance of two miles[.] one of the men returned from the persuit of cattle[.] his horse overcome and fell in the river from exhastion and fatiegue[.] after horse feed the horse was brought to camp

Sat August 1 Started again for a move[.] the men returned without the cattle a dead loss but fortunately we were still able to move and rejoicing that our circumstances were as comfortable as we were[.] the hand cart company passed us yesterday and a train of ox teams united with them under charge of Brs Parks and Dilly[.] All much better in health and rejoicing[.] travelled the distance of fourteen miles mostly through the sands very deep and hard for the weakened teams[.] all rejoiced when we were through[.] encamped about dusk and prepared supper by the light of the moon[.] retired about ten

Sundy 2 Started at six[.] travelled well and encamped on the banks of the Platt for dinner[.] the girls get along well riding in the carriage and seem much better[.] our camping place for dinner was Ash [illegible] hollow a splendid and romantic place[.] encamped for the night near the Platt and here witnessed an awful thunderstorm[.] all much better[.] the girls are now getting able to help themselfs to walk[.] Captain Terry is as usual their attendant

Mon 3 Started at eight on account of rain early this morning[.] had splendid scene[r]y and travelled about about twenty-one miles[.] encamped on Croll creek[,] a beautiful ground splendid water[.] another violent thunder storm getting along well

Tues 4 Started at half past five for the purpose of getting ahead of a train of wagons and hand cart companys who it was reported had small pox[.] overtook them at dinner and passed by[.] all in usual health and spirits and although some of the teams were overcome from heat and a long drive yet all seemed well in spirit with few exceptions[.] encamped for the night near the Platt.

Wed 5 Started at an early hour and travelled well although very warm and some of our teams went back to assist those who were weakened by the loss of cattle[.] I know not the exact distance of travel but came in sight of chimney Rock and indeed passed some of the most splendid edifices apparently my eye ever beheld. Oh how I wish mine were a painters pencil or poets pen[.] I would portray if possible the beauty of the scenes through which we have been called to pass

Thursdy 6 Started quite early and had a splendid day for travelling[.] cool a little cloudy[.] came opposite Chimney Rock at dinner time[.] stopped for dinner[.] passed saleratus springs very singular I apperance[.] travelled the distance of twenty one miles and encamped near the Platt[.] very pleasant day[.] the girls all better[.] a splendid camp ground

Fridy 7 Made 13 miles to spring creek for noon and 2 miles more P.M. camped on the Platt river

Sat 8 Storm [illegible] heavy thunder and lightning in the night cool and fine in the morning[.] halted and bought oxen of a trader at 11 oclock A.M. encamped on the Platt river

Sund 9 Travelled 16 miles[.] heavy sand[.] lost 1 large ox for Mrs. Bowman

Mo[n]d 10 Camped at noon opposite Laramie[.] one man left behind to suffer on the plains by Capt McCuen [McCune] owing to dissatisfaction[.] by driving made 4 miles camped on the Platt[.] wood and water pasture scarce

Tued 11 Passed a mountainous road[.] no water[,] no grass[.] travelled 14 or 15 miles great [illegible] time[.] some weak teams to get along[.] found water[.] scarcely any grass[.] late to camp[.] some did not get up untill next morning

Wed 12 went 6 miles and camped to feed on mountain grass[.] wood and water plenty

Thurs 13 Laid over to feed the cattle[.] nor sher [sentence unfinished] some of these [sentence unfinished]

Fridy 14 Seperated from the St Louis company this morning on account of scarcity of grass[.] travelled well over sand and some heavy hills[.] encamped on a beautiful stream for dinner called [blank space] a very clear and cold spring[.] a splendid place to camp[,] wood plenty[,] shade also which is indeed a treat[.] crossed a river at which place it would have been hard to have encamped for the night as we could find no water although the grass was very good[.] Captain Hawfines [Hoffeins] sick

Saturdy 15 Were detained on account of an ox of Br Taylors having been left as it was lame and could not travel fast[.] two of Pa’s men went back to bring him along[.] a nice cool morning[.] all well[.] the girls better[.] the Captain also overtook the St Louis company when they encamped for the remainder of the day[.] Br Terry visited us at dinner time[.] we were pleased to see him well[.] started at four oclock and travelled a short distance through a hail storm[.] cool and very pleasant[.] encamped for the night near a beautiful spring but before the company were all in camp the water came rolling past from a water spout that had bursted occasioning a bad smell and spoiling our nice spring of water

Sund 16 Started early and travelled without water for the cattle[.] distance about three and a half miles[.] the other company close behind us[.] encamped about three oclock for the day[,] the company passing us three miles[.] Br Terry came back in the evening and remained with us all night[.] the camp was mostly well

Mond 17 Arose early at three oclock[.] started before six[.] travelled about eleven miles of mountainous land and struck the river at two oclock for dinner[.] remained till three[.] started again[.] encamped for the night near the river having found a splendid spot of grass and a nice spring of good water[.] the St Louis company encamped near[.] all well[.] about 8 miles[.] SM.

Tuesday 18 Arose about three oclock and started half past five[.] travelled about ten or twelve miles this morning[.] stoped for dinner at half past one near the Platt[.] some splendid grass short but good[.] grass improves now[.] very cold mornings and evenings[.] Br Hart and Br Huffaker came past searching for a camp ground[.] the St Louis company all well[.] I feel like wishing the journey over as tis so cool for Grandma[,] Pa and some more who are not able to endure the cold

Wed 19 Arose in good season but to our disadvantage found about twenty head of our cattle gone[.] search being made the cattle found and started again having a great mountain to assend and heavy sandy roads[.] met Br Jones and Br Atwood from this new settlement that is now being formed on the Deer Creek[.] these men were very much surprised to see us this side of the river[.] the road is so much better on the other side of the river[.] we regret being on this side as the roads are awful[,] scarcely passable with our weakened teams[.] an express arrived from the valley for those in the settlement as well as the camps to hasten home[.] Oh how I wish for the wings of the morning to fly away to the saints of light

Thursd 20 Started again to travell through the sand and high hills[.] encamped for dinner a splendid place[.] grass good[.] Pa’s carriage went on to the bridge and stoped for some business such as shoeing his horses and so on[.] all will come to the bridge in the afternoon[.] encamped for the night after passing through very heavy sand and high mountains

Friday 21 Arose earaly and started about half past six[.] travelled slowly on account of hills and sand[. an express from the valley to hasten home which was good news to all[.] the Captain found two oxen[.] one proved a dead one[.] the other a nice young steer[.] they were on the opposite shore and at evening we encamped near the Texas company of Saints on their way home to the valley[.] there were only about eight or ten wagons and over 1000 head of cattle as they were taking a great many with them

Sat 22 Arose in good season but did not get started untill eight Oclock as six of our cattle had strayed amoungst the Texas herd[.] the Captain lost one yoke of his that belonged to the church[.] he started in search of them[.] Br Wilkes accompanied him but the cattle were found in the herd[.] we started on as there was a drive of perhaps twenty miles before us on account of Saleratus water[.] near thirty head of dead cattle on the road since yesterday on[,] all belonging to emigrants who had gone before us on our journey[.] fortunately for us we came to some beautiful springs now known as Willow Springs[.] The trees have decayed and the stumps alone remained to mark this spot[.] the ground around is full of lumps or mounds and will be easily recognised on that account[.] the cattle were driven over a mile to avoid bad water[.] the springs are splendid but not sufficient to water the cattle[.] passed some beautiful mountains red in appearance[.] the distance not over 13 miles

Sundy 23 started about seven o clock on account of herding our cattle with the Texas company[.] came to prospect hill[.] really a beautiful spot[.] we beheld the Sweet water [Sweetwater] mountains in the distance[.] rainy[.] at noon we came to a nice spring of water[.] stoped whilst the rain should continue[.] encamped for the night[.] all well

Mondy 24 Bought some new cattle[.] one yoke for Pa[.] had some trouble to get them seperated from the herd as they had been purchased of the Texas company[.] did not start until almost noon[.] came in sight of Devils gate and encamped for the night on the Sweet water at the foot of Independance Rock.

Teu 25 Arose early[.] had breakfast soon and all necessary arrangements made for visiting Independance Rock[.] mounted the towering summitt and viewed the surrounding objects but I feel my pen or thoughts inadequate to the task of portraying a true picture of the awful grandue and beauty of these scenes[.] encamped about three miles this side of Devils Gate[.] stoped at the station near the gate and had the horses shod[.] did not travell over seven or eight miles today[.] some very slow teams[.] met some kind hearted saints at the Gate

Wed 26 Arose early had a very great storm of wind[.] blew down the large tent and caused us some disadvantages[.] started about seven and encamped almost dark making only about twelve miles to-day

Thursdy 27 This morning we concluded to seperate as there were some teams or person’s who would not keep up so Pa and Br Washington concluded to take their wagons and Br Lankton also accompa[ny]ing us[.] the Captain seemed well satisfied but I do not believe he was[.] moved along well[.] passed the Texas company and get along well for as Br Taylor said we could divide into tens whenever we should deem it wisdom[.] we all feel as though we should get along better since the seperation[.] at dinner time Br Lankton seemed dissatisfied and concluded to wait for the wagons. we left in the morning[.] had a splendid camp ground[.] grass wood and splendid water being near the ford No 4 of Sweet Water[.] in the evening Will Robinson, Harry and I accompanied Sallie Hare [illegible] to the other camp for the purpose of obtaining Sallies clothes as she was going with us and her cloths were in Mrs Bowmans wagon[.] we got her trunk and returned in peace to our camp[.] they had a bad sandy road camp ground[.] all well[.] distance 17 miles

Fridy 28 Started at six and travelled well about twenty-one miles[.] as we encamped two young men rode into our camp and took of the saddles from their horses & remained with us all night[.] had a nice ground and good time[.] get along much better since we seperated and have good times

Sat 29 Did not start as soon as usual[,] about seven and as those two young men were about to leave us Pa invited them to see us when we get home[.] he also enquired their names when to our surprise we had been entertaining our Patriarch John Smith[.] we travelled about two miles and came to the sweet water [Sweetwater] where there was an abundance of most beautiful fish[.] we took a net of Br Washingtons[,] stopped the train and began fishing[.] caught fish sufficient for three hearty meals for the entire camp[.] as we were about done he beheld Br John Smith and his comrade coming to us[.] they assisted netting in the fish[.] observed how to salt them so they would keep[.] we were stoped about one and a half hour and made 20 miles[.] about three or four was the most dreadful rocky road I had passed so trying on the wagons[.] came to camp just a few moments after sunset[.] a splendid ground[.] wood and water and all things well

Sundy 30 Arose early and started in good season[.] drove to the station[.] encamped for dinner[.] started again and stoped in good season on a branch of the Sweet Water[.] had a splendid camp ground[.] all well

Mondy 31 Did not start untill about eight oclock[.] a company of Indians came to our camp and seemed rather inclined to steal[.] encamped after going 14 miles for dinner when six boy’s from the vally came to our camp and staid with us all night[.] plenty of game[.] get along well[.] peace prevails which is a great consideration.

Tues Sep 1 Started in good season and left our brethren whose society had been so aggreabe [agreeable] to us[,] they to fulfill their mission[,] we to reach our home in the mountains of Israel[.] travelled twenty one miles and encamped of little Sandy[,] a splendid ground[,] grass sufficient for our cattle not being so numerous as before the seperation

Wed 2 Arose all well[.] travelled fast as the weather is now cool and pleasant for travelling[.] we heard Br Lewis was on Weber river forty miles from the valley[.] passed the government train the first one en rout[e] to Utah numbering about twenty six wagons[.] all well and get along well under the special care of our Father in Heaven[.] my heart rejoices in prospect of so speedy a journey meeting with those from whose lips flow the words of life[.] Thurs 3 encamped on big Sandy for the night[.] grass rather poor

Thur 3 Started half past six and came to grass about ten oclock[.] turned out to graze and rest the cattle[.] stoped between two & three hours[.] started gain and travelled untill night[.] encamped without water on account of going by direction on a finger[.] heard the river was quite a distance off

Fridy 4 arose and prepared for starting[.] this morning Mrs Thomas Mously [Mousley] had a little daughter added to her household[.] quite well and able to travell[.] travelled about eight miles and came to Green River[.] a beautiful place and fer[r]y[.] five boats on this ferry here[.] we encamped for the purpose of resting the cattle etc

Sat 5 Remained in camp washing etc untill afternoon[.] then forded the wagons over[.] encamped for the night[.] this ferry seems to have been a business place[.] good grass and plenty of water

Sun 6 This morning a beautiful chance for a prosperous journey and may God our Father speed us home in peace and prosperity[.] Started but found we had taken the California road and was consequently obliged to retrace our steps[.] this we found out through the kindness of a Mountaineer who directed us aright

Mon 7 Traded off some of our cattle by giving considerable money and now started to retrace our steps and get on the right road again[.] travelled to Green river ford where we had crossed and some few miles below

Tues 8 Arose early and travelled well within about ten or twelve miles from the ford where we should have been

Wed 9 Started and nooned at the Station and travelled quite a distance[.] encamped without water for the night

Thurs 10 Arose early and went to a trading post and procured potatoes cheese and fresh beef[.] passed Blacks ford (Fork)[,] Hams fork and Black ford (Fork) again

Frid 11 Passed small creek[.] no water[.] 11 miles[.] Black’s ford third time[.] 2 miles[,] third time[.] 2 miles and encamped 3 miles on a stream[.] all well

Sat 12 Travelled 12 miles to Fort Bridger[.] met St Louis com[pany.] all well and pleased to see us[.] Capt Hawfines [Hoffeins] com[pany.] he started as soon as he heard we were coming[.] met many saints and remained in camp all night

Sun 13 This Morning were detained by getting oxen shod. Capt Hawfines only travelled about one mile and then waited for four wagons of his company whom he had left because they could not find some of their cattle which however they found and were ready to start with him again[.] President Hart’s company started about a ten Oclock[.] we started between eleven & Twelve[.] travelled well[.] all well and get along well[.] passed cold springs[.] on the right of the road 6 miles a creek and springs 2 miles[.] 5 miles to Muddy fork and encamped on little Muddy one mile further

Mon 14 passed copperas [illegible] spring 3 miles[.] assended a high ridge the summit of which was altitude 7,315 feet[.] lean[g]thy descent and narrow pass[.] travelled well and nooned but were overtaken by the St Louis and Capt Hawfines company who had not stopped to noon[.] encamped two miles east of Bear river[.] all company’s together[.] Capt Terry spent the evening with us

Tues 15 arose and started at seven Oclock and kept out the way of the St Louis and Capt Hawfines[.] passed the Cache cave two miles and Camped making 18 or 20 miles

Wed 16 Had a very heavy rain last night[.] cloudy morning and started down Echo Canyon[.] some dreadful places to pass