Transcript
Transcript for Thomas McIntyre journal, 1854 November-1913 May, 16-68
At 7 a.m. we have a death in our camp. Anna Henysen [Hansen Jensen] aged 49. She had been sickly since she left home. We bury her on near to a creek near the south of the road[.] The Danish Saints attend to the rites of burial. We travel over hilly ground but good roads ford Bear River which is very high and camp about ¼ of a mile from the Crossing travelled today 21 miles.
Start from Florence at 5 o clock p.m. with Handcarts to cross the Plains.
We number 258 Souls consisting of English, Scotch, Irish, Welsh, Swiss, Danes, Norwegians & Swedes.
We have 57 Handcarts. Four persons are allowed to a Cart with 20 lbs of luggage, with provisions the whole amounting to 250 lbs to a Cart. Our Organization is as follows: Geo. Rowley, Captain. Thos. McIntyre Secretary. Mark Lindsey Captain of 1st ten. Henry Hobbs 2d 10[,] Thos Maycock 3d ten[,] Wm Scroggins [Scoggins] 4th ten Scandinavians. H[ans]. O[lsen]. Magleby Cap. of 5th ten[,] I. [Jens] Jensen Cap. 6t ten[,] M[athias Brock] Nielsen 7th ten. A [Andrew] Jensen Chaplain for Danish and Henry Olpen [Olpin] Chaplain for English. Wm Mann, Captain of the guard. We have also 8 Wagons which carry our extra luggage for the Company. Henry Hartley is Captain of the teamsters. We travail slowly over some rolling ground for about 4 miles and pitch our tents at a place called "Spring Creek" We have scarcely entered camp when the axel tree of one of our waggons gave way. After a good time around the Camp fire and prayer by H. Hobbs we retire to rest. pleased with the first day's trial at Hand cart pulling.
Morning Prayer by Jonah Cartwright. We remain in Camp all day. We sign receipts made out to us by Geo Q Cannon Emigration Agent for deficeences [deficiencies] in funds for Hand carts and fit-out. Meeting in the afternoon Addressed by Br. Cannon & R[obert] F Neslen who give us Some very useful information in relation to our Journey and great blessings promised to us if we attended to them[.] Evening prayer by M. Lindsey
Prayer by the Chaplain. We start at 9 am. in good spirits and roll merribly on on very good roads for 5 miles and Camp at "Big Papooah [Pappea]" The remainder of the day is spent in finishing the signing of Receipts. Br. Neslen & a few other brethren visit us[.] the day is closed by prayer by Br Jarvis.
Sabbath Morning prayer by H Hartley[.] Considerable time is spent in weighing luggage[,] a few of the Saints having too much in their Carts af. [sic] After all were put to rights we again take the road and travail about 10 miles and camp at "Elk Horn." Some of the Brethren from the Valley are also camped here. Many questions are asked of them Concerning friends and relatives in the Valley. We are very much tormented by mosquitoes[.] we are are all pretty well branded by them. Evening prayer by Wm Scroggins.
Prayer by H. Hobbs. Very pleasant morning we make a very early start with the intention of making a few miles in the cool of the morning, but not coming to any proper camping place we continue our Journey uninterruptedly till we come to a place called "Freemonts" on the Platt[e] River. We have travelled today about 16 miles. We feel much refreshed by bathing in the Platte[.] In the Evening we are visited by Indians who wait upon us at supper and proffer to pull our hand carts if we pay them a little money. Day closed with prayer by Br [Abraham] Duffin.
During the night we had a thunder storm[.] Morning prayer by John Smith
At ½ past eight we are again in marching order and move out admist the sweet fragrance of Brier and Prairie flowers caused by the rain of last night. We feel refreshed and enlivened and as we Jog along the Hymn and favorite song can be heard along the line of march. today we feel more reconciled to our novel way of traveling. We have very good roads and a fine breeze which fans us very pleasantly.
A large herd of sheep is before us[.] Occasionally one or two is left behind footsore which come in very good for us who have no fresh meat.
We reach camp at 4 o’clock[.] it is called "North Bend" Mosquitoes very troublesome[.] We have traveled today 14 miles. Prayer by Br. [Joseph] Broadbent.
Prayer by Br [Edward] Shanks. Very fine morning and in good spirits for another long pull but we only make 7 miles and camp at "Shell Creek" at 4 o’clock. Another sheep dropped from the herd before us, which we are thankful for. Prayer by Br. Scroggins.
At ½ past 8 we move out of camp but is soon overtaken by the rain but not being heavy we keep on our Journey amidist it[.] Soon it fairs again and we have good roads and an excellent time for the rest of the Journey. We reach camp at 5 o clock called "Platte Valley" A Scotch and Welsh Family of Saints live here they are very kind to us. We have travelled today about 15 miles.
Our Baggage wagons do not reach camp till 11 o’clock. In crossing a creek one of the wagons broke down[.] This mishap will keep us in camp tomorrow until it is mended. Prayer by Br. Olpin.
Remain in camp all day a prominent feature of todays doings is mending the broken wagon. It is a busy day with the sisters washing and fixing clothing. Br Brown's Train camp near to us[.] We have lots of good company and enjoy ourselves tonight in Singing and dancing. Prayer by Mark Lindsey.
We have a thunder storm this morning preventing us from starting out early. We try it at 11 o’clock[.] the roads are soft and many pools of water are formed[.] On the roads we make circutious routes to avoid them which makes it very tedious travelling. We reach a place about 5 o’clock tired and weary called "Cleveland" Travelled 10 miles[.] Our little trials are finished off today by the pesty mosquitoes. Prayer by Wm Scroggins.
Prayer by Br H. Hobbs[.] We make an early start at 5 o’clock. It is a very cool morning for travelling, only the roads a little soft owing to late rains[.] We are met within seven miles of Genoa by a party of Brethren who come to help us for which we feel very grateful. We are pursuing our Journey merrily under this feeling when we have another accident with one of our baggage wagons breaking down again; but as we are near a friendly settlement; a "lie over" in camp for a day will do us good.
When within 3 miles of Genoa we are overtaken by a real American thunderstorm which drenches us "through and through" as the Scotsman we say however we are not long in getting right again. Distance from our last camp 16 miles.
As expected we remain here all day until the wagon is mended.
A meeting is called in the afternoon when we are addressed by our Captain and the Captains of ten who counsel and instruct us in their turns[.] the Saints feel well, and seem to think it a privilege to go to Zion by hand carts. A Collection is taken up to defray the expense of ferries[.] It is moved & seconded that Br H Heartly be releived from taking charge of the Baggage wagons and that Br Wm Harris take his place[.] We enjoy ourselves in the Song and dance with our Genenoa brethren and Sisters.
At 1 o’clock p.m. we reluctantly part from our Geneoa friends and commence crossing the ferries. Br Johnston who owns the ferry generously gives us a free passage. After this trouble is safely over we travel about half a mile through heavey sand and accept the invitation to camp with Br Brown's & company. Our Chaplain being sick, prayer is held in the different companys.
Prayer by T Maycock. We are detained here in consequence of the Wagon which stuck in the sand last night till ½ past 2[.] Having good roads we make 12 miles and camp at 7 o’clock[.] Prayer by Br M. Lindsey.
It is a beautiful morning[.] Prayer has just been offered up by the Chaplain invoking the protection of our Heavenly Father, Capt Brown's [company] has just moved out of Camp. We are all standing by our respective Carts some singing some merrily talking awaiting orders from our Captain to March. At ½ past 8 we start in Indian file, the Company that came last yesterday going first today.
We roll on at a good rate over good roads for several miles taking a rest of 10 minutes every hour, when lo! we are brought to a halt by the oft talked of Mud-holes.
We can get no way to get past them so of course we go through them which is a very disagreeabble thing especially for the Sisters who have to turn up their petticoats, many a fair leg went in there and came out black with much mud above the knee[.] After considerable struggling, hallooing, and laughing we get through all right and camp at "Loup Fork" about 35 miles from Genoea. Capt Brown's Company camp near to us again and we enjoy a good time[.] We have traveled today 22 miles. Our baggage waggons have not arrived, they have had great difficulty in getting through the mud holes.
We sleep without our tents tonight quite an annoyance to the older folks and the Sisters. This interesting day is closed with prayer by T. Maycock.
Our last waggons came into camp at 11 o’clock am. We remain here today[.] The ballance of the day is spent in dealing out provisions to the Company. Br Lemon's Train camp with us tonight[.] Prayer by Br Schofield.
We roll out at 7 o clock and travel slowly behind our provisions wagons in order that the brethren of the hand carts may assist the teamsters when the wagons got mired in the many mud holes which are in our way. We then encounter very heavey sandy roads and finish up with hilly sandy ground. The hardest day's travel we have have yet. And worse, we camp at a late hour where there is neither wood nor water[.] Tired and footsore we lay down to rest at 9 having traveled 20 miles over very bad roads for narrow wheeled hand carts such as ours were.
Sabbath morning, but instead of resting we are glad to get out of this sandy Country and to where we can get wood and water so that we can rest properly and be refreshed. So we start on a hard day's work again over sand still worse than the previous day[.] We come to blessed water and take dinner and a rest for 2 hours[.] we pursue our Journey for 7 miles and camp at "Prarie Creek" we have some difficulty in crossing this creek. Travelled today 12 miles.
We roll out at 10 and travel over good roads. but under a very scorching sun which overpowers a few of the Saints[.] We travel slowly resting often until we come within 5 miles of “Emigration Springs” and there we camp for the night. 11 miles made today.
Start at 5 am all in good sprits and roll over excellent roads like an unbroken chain until we arrive at "Wood River" Slough and here comes another test for our old wagons
With a severe struggle they come out minus 2 Wheels[.] Camp here beside "Wood River" a very pleasant place. A few Brethren with their families live here. traveled today 16 miles. Prayer by Br [Charles] Gledhil[l].
We remain here all day. Most of the Saints make it a day of pleasure in fishing, hunting and bathing. The Sisters take advantage of the time in doing up their washing. The families who live here are very kind and show us many courtises for which we feel very grateful[.] To save us the trouble of dragging our hand carts through the river which is a very disagreeable especially for the Sisters, they build us a bridge. They also exchange our broken wagon for a good one. Br Lemons train leaves us today they also have been kind to us[.] Our Captain buys a Poney from Lemons so that he may ride ahead and find proper Camping places. We have an excellent meeting at night, addressed by Capt Rowley.
We set out again at 10 o’clock a.m. and travel 11 miles and camp a mile off the old road and about 3 miles from "Nebraska Centre" prayer by John Smith.
A beautiful morning, we are just ready to start when a herd of Buffallo is discreried [discovered] in the distance and being the first time we had seen these oft talked of animals a wild excitement immeadiately took place[.] A number of brethren could be seen running out in their shirt sleeves with an old gun of some kind, and some of the Danish brethren in their excitement ran out with an axe or anything they could lay hands on.
The Buffallo are soon out of sight and we are again in travelling order again and keep on the march till we reach a point of the Platte and there we camp[.] We have a large number of invalids today
Prayer by J. Cartwright.
Prayer by Wm Hobbs[.] We start at 6 a.m. and pursue our journey in gloomy silence among dust for 15 miles glad to rest for dinner 2 hours, continue another 5 miles and camp at Buffallos Creek, good water but little wood[.] There is a very good substitute which we had to use very often called "Buffallo Chips" or Buffallo dung, but oftimes you could see a Sister coming into camp rejoicing in an apron full of a mixture of all kinds of quadrupide manure to make her Camp fire with.
According to orders we are early astir this morning. We roll out at 6 o’clock and travel 6 miles without a halt all trying their best to make a good day's travel, when we learn that the axle tree of one [of] the provision wagons has broken and of course dispirited we turn into Camp on Buffallo Creek. a few Indians of the Sioux Tribe are camped here[.] We very soon make friends with them. We had not been in Camp an hour when two fine Buffallo were seen but a short distance from Camp.
The Indians thinking their game had come, immediately threw all the trappings off their ponies and started in pursuit with their pistols[.] they soon got up on them and gave chase to one which they soon killed and brought portions of it into Camp which they distributed very freely among the Sisters. In the Evening we have a very good fellowship meeting rendered very interesting by two brethren from the Valley[.] The Indians also attend meeting sit very quiet and seemed much pleased. The Saints enjoy themselves and feel well. At night when retiring to rest, we are startled by a wild Indians cry or yell[.] for a moment we did not [know] what to think[.] Some of us thought that they had turned traitor and their war whoop was the signal for hostilitie[s.] Soon it turned into a strange sort of singing and fears were soon quieted by learning that they were merry and were come to do our big Chief honor or seranade him which they did in a remarkable odd way.
We make an early start this morning make good time[.] travel 25 miles and camp beside the Platte River[.] Prayer by Br [William] Scroggins.
Prayer by Br. M. Lindsey[.] We leave this place at 9 a.m. in good Spirits. While pursuing our journey we learn that one of our number has died. Elna Johnson [Johanson] aged 67 years from Sweden[.] We remain here for two hours while the Scandinavians attend to the rites of her burial. She is buried as near as I can tell 12 miles west of the point nearest nearest to Platt[e] River about 37 miles west of Buffallo Creek and about 70 yards from the old road on a rising ground. We start again and make another 5 miles and Camp again beside the "Platte"[.] Prayer by Peter Later.
We have quite a number of invalids[.] 38 who are footsore & who are obliged to ride in the provisions Wagons. We start at 8 and travel through heavey Sand for 10 miles and pitch our tents beside the Platt[e]
We remain here until a new axle tree is made for one of our wagons and at 3 P.M. we are on the road again and make 10 miles before 9 P.m. and camp the road where there is neither wood nor water
We get out of this place as early as possible in order to get to water which we do in about 7 miles travel which brings us again side to side with our favorite "Platte". here we camp. Like the Israelites traveling in the wilderness. the spirit of murmuring is manifested among a few of the Saints and its blighting influence is felt all over the camp. the cause of Complaint being against the Captain and scarcity of provisions. We are detained here until we can obtain a better feeling before we proceed on our Journey[.] A meeting is Called where we are addressed by Capts Rowley, Lindsey, Maycock, Scroggins and Hobbs. the four hours spent in this meeting had a very good effect on all present and especially on the Grumblers who acknowledged their folly and promised to do better in [the] future.
We start at 8 a.m. travelling slowly[,] the provision Wagons in the front[.] We meet a California train[.] They tell us that they left behind them 2 lame oxen if we found them a we were welcome to them. Two of our boys came into Camp to day with the story that they were chased by Wolves[.] They had gone in search of the two lame oxen when crossing a ravine saw 7 or 8 Wolves running in the direction they were and of course they ran as fast as their legs could carry them never once looking back until they were within Sight of Camp. We camp near the road which Joins the Platte we passed today "Skunk" and "Mestaphers" Creeks travelled 14 miles. Prayer by Br Olpen
Sabbath Morning, this is an interesting day with us plenty of Company[.] Two California trains camp beside us[.] We start in company of one of them the other remains behind for a day's rest. They have been very pleasant company[.] We meet 6 Wagons of Apostate Mormons from Salt Lake City finding fault with everything and everybody and talk of unhousing our Captain. We pass over Several creek without accident and at North Bluff Creek we meet a larger camp camp of S[i]oux Indians who are very friendly. We camp near the Platte again. Prayer by M. Lindsey.
We start early in company with our California friends and the Indians[.] We pass over 10 miles of Sand Bluffs the toughest day we have had yet[,] the narrow wheels of the hand carts ploughing deeply in the Sand and we sweating like mules to pull them over the bluffs[.] We break a Wagon wheel today. We camp at Buffallo Creek" very much used up.
We try again this morning but find it very difficult to get along among the Sand[.] it is hard work to walk without anything and much progress[.] We manage 7 miles and at "Wolf Spring" we camp for the night. At the head of Pawnee Swamp
Once more we try again with the hope of getting on to good roads and are not dissapointed for in the afternoon we came on to a beautiful plain and an excellent road[.] We are often amused reading the writings in pencil on the Bleached bones that lie by the roadside[.] all kinds of correspondence from those who are on the road before us as "July 1st 1859 Capt [James S.] Brown passed here, All well and notes very useful and some marked with great bitterness against Brigham. Camp at Rattlesnake River. Travel today 12 miles
We start at 7 a.m. Cross over a few creeks, contend with sand, meet a few Indians, perspire a little and Camp at "Camp Creek" Travelled 15 miles.
Start early, encountre a high Sand Bluff, which is very difficult here we meet 10 Wagons of returning Emigrants from the Valley, Sister Hardie has charge of the children saved from the Mountain Meadow Massacre. A thunder storm today.
A fine morning and good roads we travel 8 miles and camp for dinner by a well, these wells are often found on the way where there are no springs or running water[.] Some very good water is found by digging about 8 or 10 feet[.] We meet here a train of California Emigrants they inform us that they have left a lame Cow behind which we could have if we went back for it[.] thinking that nothing should be lost a few of us go back and find that the Indians had shot her and scampered off as soon as they Saw us Coming. She was not quite dead so the lot fell upon me to put an end to her miseries as I presented the pistol to her head she gave me a very sympathic look which rather turned me or the pistol for it snapped so. I did not try it a second time, all we brought of [it] into camp was the hide which we found very useful for the sore feet of our Cattle.
Sabbath morning, but it makes no difference we must travel[.] we set out at 6 a.m. and travel 6 miles over good roads arrive at Castle Creek and rest for the day. A large train camp near us. We also met two Brethren from the Valley[.] In the Evening we have a meeting and receive Some useful information and Counsel from the Captains of Tens
We start early this morning rejoicing in good roads; in order to get to water we go off the road 2 miles. We pursue our Journey a little fa\urther and camp at Sandy Bluff 18 miles West of Castle River, traveled today 18 miles[.] Our number of invalids today is 38.
At ½ past 9 we are again on the road everything favorable for travrlling arrivr at Shoal Creek and take dinner[.] harness up again travel 7 miles further and camp by the River side. A train of 3 wagons of Malcontents from SL City are camped here[.] Of course everything is wrong in SL City[.] Mormonism in England is quite another thing
Our folks are always very fond of interviewing all strangers especially those from SL City[.] One of our Scotch Sisters asked them if there were any of her country folks with them. No, says one bristling up, Scotsman & Irishman will do anything for Mormonism, but noble sons and daughters of England will not be trampled on. They believed Mormonism was true but the Authorities were acting unrighteously and the Lord would soon come out of his hiding place and scourge them. They had gone to the Valley with hand carts as we were doing and were returning with a very fine outfit, a very good evidence of their prosperity while there.
At 7 a.m. we are again on the pull[.] I am assisted at my cart by 3 young girls 1 English 1 Welsh & the other Scotch[.] For pulling the Scotch lassie could beat the others and was a team of herself her name was Agnes Berrell [Birrell], the Welsh girl Ann Lewis was subject to fainting spells which was very ackward in travelling as I had occasionally to let go the cart to catch her from falling, the English girl Sarah Tuffley was quiet and did not care whether the cart came along or not.
We drag through sand and then roll over good roads. We make a halt to look at some very curious Bluff resembling fortifications and old castles. We take dinner by the side of the river
There surely must be a stampede of Apostate Mormons from the Valley for here we meet another of that stamp here on their way back to England. The flock of sheep are still in advance of us a few miles[.] one of our boys picked up one today[.] Camped by the rive side.
We start at 7 am a Spirit of grumbling takes hold of a few of the Saints becuase they think they have more to pull along on their cart than others. We are before Court House Rock and about 20 miles east of Chimney Rock when Sister William Harris [Jane Carter Harris] is delivered of a Son [Charles Edwin Harris] at 1/3 ¼ to 3 P.M. Mother and child doing well
We start at 11 am pass over a Sand Bluff travel 16 miles and camp near Chimney Rock.
We resume our Journey at 8 am travel 12 miles and take dinner by the river[.] Start again at 4 and make 5 miles and [camp] near the river 4 miles east of Scot[t]s Bluffs
Sabbath morning, but we must travel and get off these plains before our provisions give out[.] We meet 11 wagons of Apostates from Utah[.] They find no particular fault with the Valley, they seem to have done remarkably well as they seemed to show from their display of fine stock they had along with them. We have a very interesting fellowship meeting in the evening and enjoy a goodly portion of the Holy Spirit[.] the Saints feel well
A cold, wet morning, but as soon as we commence travelling it fairs and everything goes favorable with us. Camp by the Side of the River[.] here we are blessed with timber again a great relief from the "Buffallo Chip" system, still we are very grateful for these sweet smelling things for how could we have Cooked without them. Travel to day 19 miles.
At 7 we are again on the road sometimes on good roads and again among sand[.] Camp near the River 3 miles west of Rawhide Creek
Very warm and soft Sandy roads for 6 miles Camp near Fort Larmie[.] Two of our Boys are dispatched to the Fort to trade for a wagon wheel to fill the place of the one which was broken on the 11th[.] On their way there they found one in the River which answered the purpose very well. Thomas Jarvis aged 21 from Manchester Eng left us to go with Some Gentile emigrants to Pike's Peak.
We make a start [and] are immediately told to camp again as the provision wagons have broken another wheel[.] Father [William] Harris is sent to Larmie to trade for one[.] he is refused there, but manages to get one from the man at the ferry[.] We have a meeting in the evening. It is moved and carried unanimously that of Chaplain be released for neglect of duty and Br John Smith take his place[.] prayers to be favorably attended to night & morning in the different Companys and altogether in the middle of the Corral, The Grumblers were also remembered and the day was closed with prayer
We leave Larmie at 8 o clock and climb over a few hills, roads Sandy[.] An incident occurred at this [place] which nearly cost the lives of a few of our boys. We proposed to wade the River to see Larmie[,] so we stopped and sent our clothes across on horseback[.] before us the Current was strong and the river in some places three and four feet at the fording place[.] as union is strength we got hold of each others hands and in this manner we got safely over[.] took a view of Larmie and came back to the River. A raft was tied to the side of the water's edge the less cautious took this plan to cross and I with the ballance took the old plan which had not failed[.] When about the middle of the river clasping each others hands the other party on the raft (naked) started down with the current having no power to turn the raft right or left in desperation some clung to the long rope that is stretched accross the river for ferrying[.] the others missing the rope as it passed were carried a little further and finally seeing no help for them Jumped into the river[.] they were with great difficulty saved from drowning.
The three boys that cling to the rope had to work themselves with their naked hands & legs to the edge of the water. After dinner we roll out again as we move along our attention is directed to a soldier on horseback very anxious to cross and see our outfit. After making Several failures and noticing that he had engaged our attention he made another attempt[,] urged his horse on[,] got into deep water[,] was unhorsed and a awful plunging takes place to Save themselves[.] luckily they were both saved but the Soldier's curiosity was not satisfied. We travel over a very rolling country the scenery quite interesting[,] the country always forming a new picture as we ascend to the tops of each hill[.] Travelled to-day 15 miles
While at prayers tonight Br. Scroggins indicated that he had something to say. He dreamed that the Saints were murmuring, and that the Spirit of God came upon him and caused him to prophecy that if the Saints did not cease their murmuring that decease [disease] would lay hold on them and that many would fall by the way—So about 8 o clock this morning when we started he was in perfect health in fact never felt better till about three hours travel and then he was suddenly attacked with violent pains in his bowels, yet he still kept on with his Cart[.] The pain increased and his eyes grew so weak that he was obliged to drop by the way; here he prayed fervently to the Lord to ease his pains and give him strength to keep up with the company; He tried to remember if he had done anything wrong to incure the Lord's displeasure. Being alone he again prayed earnestly with his face to the Earth, he felt now so ill that he thought he must die, he tried to look up but his eyes failed him. All at once his dream flashed vividly accross his mind, so he prayed again and said that if it were the Lords will he should tell his dream to the Saints that his pain might leave him; that moment the pain left him and in a short time he was with the camp again as well as ever.
We make another start at 8 o’clock and travel among the hills for the greater portion of the day. We strike the River again and refresh ourselves and at 5 o’clock we start to make for some Springs represented in the guide we have where there is good feed for Cattle and wood. and water[.] After traveling the distance designated viz 9 miles we find ourselves surrounded by darkness and no Signs of any camping place. We camp here without grass, wood or water[.] We have come over some very difficult rocky hills, and fears are entertained for the provision wagons that are coming over the Same place in the dark[.] By very careful management of Br Harris and the blessing of God to the great surprise of us all they arrive in camp all right. Two of our Hand carts are missing[.] We have travelled 18 miles. I was sent back on horseback after the missing; a job I have to do often.
Sabbath morning our missing arrive early[.] We start early in order to get to water where we can get breakfast for man and beast[.] in about an hour and half travel we arrive at the much longed for Springs where we camp till 2 p.m. We start again to make for the river, we pass one Creek and wade through Deep Creek, pass over very good roads[.] Again we are overtaken by darkness and obliged to camp by the roadside without water or fuel.
As soon as daylight appears we are up again to get breakfast but must travel to get water and fuel for to cook it with[.] When we are on the road about ½ an hour Our Captain calls for Volunteers to go back for two young men who have become dissatisfied and are one or two days travel behind us
Brs. [Squire] Thornton, [Benjamin] Hib[b]ert, and Myself are called upon to fill this mission[.] We are told not to force the boys to come on if they feel inclined to stay but get the property from them which belongs to the Company. We started back after receiving a few cakes from some of the Sisters who had some left from the last meal and the camp moved forward. We rested by the roadside and partook of our cakes and choke cherrys that grew by the roadside. Br Thornton thought he was not able to persue the journey with us so he returned to Camp[.] We meet Brs Joseph Young and Eldredge returning from the States with mule Team& buggy[.] After a little conversation we move on again in gloomy silence hoping soon to meet with the boys who had given us this trouble[.] After a good ten hour's march we came upon them Seemingly very comfortable under a choke cherry tree cooking. Their names are Richard Mills and Geo. Reid. Their excuse for staying behind behind was that they were sick and that they were not treated well by the Captain[.] After a little talk on both sides they Started back with us this was about 3 p.m. we had travelled about an hour when we meet two wagons with Apostates[.] One of them a six footer asked us if we would not go back with them, this was just what Mills & Reid wanted, so the handcart is set down and a conversation ensues which ends in the two boys consenting to go back with them. This tall Apostate then turned his attention to us and to take great care in displaying a colt revolver. Could we let him have some caps? O yes! We were glad to show that we were armed as well as he[.] Could they have the handcart? We replied No! They then asked if they could have the flour. We told them our orders and we meant to perform them, namely to bring back the handcart and its contents whether Mills and Reid came with it or not. Having gained our point the boys turned back with the Apostates and we took up the Handcart very glad to get off without any fuss[.] We have traveled all day since 5 this morning and necessity compels us to travel all night as we have no food and no likelihood of getting any until we get up to camp again. Soon darkness surrounds us and it is with great difficulty we can keep the road. The wolves are barking around us something very disagreeable to our inexperienced ears. We are traveling in moody silence, listening to the echos of our cart Wheels as we pass some weird looking bluffs with our pistols ready in case of some wolf comy [coming] to[o] near to us when in one instant both of us are percipated down a sharp dificulty declivity of six or seven feet and fall flat on our faces in the Sand and the hand cart on the top of us.
Ben my companion is very much disheartened[.] After gathering ourselves together we travel a little further and not being sure of our road we conclude to corral our handcart and get below it and rest until daylight would come to point the right track. We huddled close together for warmth but could not get any[,] it being so very cold. Daylight at last came to our relief and to our joy we saw the camp fire ahead of us. The Brethren and Sisters were glad to see us as we were to see them[.] We had traveled since we saw them about 70 miles and that without food or rest.
Brs Eldredge and Jos W. Young camped with our Company last night and departed this morning. We remained in Camp today 20 or 30 of the Brethren are Sent to hunt up an old Sister named Elizabeth Watson who was not missed till this morning not having camped with us last night. Large fires are made at night to guide the brethren who are among the hills. They return late with no tidings of her. One brother brought in a pair of Boots and Stocking believed to belong to the lost Sister.
All the other boys return after a fruitless search for the old lady who is 73 years old. We start at 9 o clock and travel over good roads and take dinner by the River. We take up the march for 3 miles more and for the night by the River's side.
At 6 we are again on the road and we have scarcely gone a mile, whether owing to the careliness [carelessness] of the driver or some other accident of the road[,] the wagon containing the sick was upset and the sick [fell] all below the wagon bed[.] After all are cleared out we discover that only a few are slightly bruised or scratched. We [The] wagon is soon repaired and we are again on the road. We make an effort to cross the river to get a better road on the South Side but can find no fording place, so we keep the north Side our Captain thinking it safest for the Company. We have a meeting and [are] addressed by the Captains of Ten.
We start at 6 with a good resolve to make better progress our carts being lightened up. We [travel] over sandy roads and through a hilly, barren Country ascending and descending all day which is very fatiguing. At night we arrive at very pleasant spot by the River where we camp.
A few boys go out early this morning after a lame ox[.] they return at 2 pm with the ox[.] Our Camp moves on again. We meet two of the Brethren from the Valley going down east to bring on their friends. We also come in Contact with a Brother Grow a dentist who has come ahead of Browns Company to find a good road for the wagon containing his drugs[.] Being made aware by them that we would not get water for 15 miles and that the most of the road was heavey Sand we Camped immediately. It being a little too much to undertake tonight.
We make a very early start this morning at 4 o’clock and make 11 miles before dinner and two of these miles being very deep Sand. In the afternoon we ascend a very steep hill. We camp among trees by the River Side[.] Traveled to day 15 miles.
>A very cold morning we Start at 7 and soon we find ourselves contending with heavy Sandy roads till 12 o’clock and rest and take dinner by the River[.] Traveled today 20 miles the hardest days travel we have had yet. Camp 2 miles west of the Platte Bridge
We start in advance of the wagons and travel 16 miles and camp where there is no water; we soon find it by digging for it; tastes alkli[.] One of the Scandinavian Brethren missing[.] We pass immense quantities of dead oxen lying along the road. We count in one day as many a[s] 25 and 30.
Several of the boys start in Search of the missing Brother. We start at 8 and travel 17 miles good roads and camp at Willow Springs where we find the lost man.
We start before the wagons and travel to "Grease Wood Creek" where we find ourselves surrounded by Indians and Wigwams. We wait here a couple of hours, do some trading and talk with the Indians and start again for "Sweetwater" which we reach at ½ past 10 evening. The boys who were in search of the lost brother arrive here. Travelled 21 miles.
After the duties of the morning are over, we cross the Sweetwater all right roll merrilly on, pass "Independence Rock" and arrive at Devils Gate at 1’o clock[.] Here we have the last of the provisions dealt out to us, the wagons are empted out and cleaned and a general cleaning and mending by all the Saints. One of our best Oxen die here. A tribe of Upahaw Indians pass here bearing 12 Scalps and 3 Ute prisoners.
Another of our oxen die during the night and numbers of the Danes do not question how the animal died but cut up the choicest pecies and eat with great gusto[.] We rest here to day weigh up our luggage and make arrangements to leave five waggons behind to rest the oxen[.] In the evening we enjoy ourselves in the dance. Call to prayers and in a short time silence reigns around the Camp.
Sabbath morning. At 10 a.m. we have a public meeting[.] We are adressed by the captains of tens[.] A few of the Saints have lost bread and other eatables supposed to be stolen by some of their companions and it is to the guilty parties the burden of the discourses are directed. Br Scroggins reproves the Sisters for giving encouragement to strangers to lounge around camp. Br Hobbs spoke of [the] straightforward way the Elders had of reproving sin and contrasted it with the Sectarian fashion[.] The [rest] is left to the Saints who bear testimony and a good time is enjoyed. Capt Rowl[e]y closed with some excellent remarks. Sarah Jones leave[s] us to get married to a friend of hers who lives at the fort here and Hannah Mo[o]re[,] wife of Br E[dward] Mo[o]re with her child engages as servant to a man at the same Trading Post. She never belonged to the Church. We [leave] this place at 4 p.m. bidding farewell to for a short time to those who are left behind with the five wagons[.] We go only three miles and Camp for the night
The morning as usual smiles upon us encouraging us to be up and doing[.] Prayers are attended to, breakfast discussed and at 8 we leave this part of the Sweetwater[.] In short time We arrive at a Trading Post, where to our astonishment, we meet the lost Sister Watson whom we gave up for dead on the Evening of the 31st of July. Her story from her own lips runs as follows. "I traveled till darkness came upon me, and here I lost my way and of course gave up all hope of seeing camp[.] That night [I] passed the night alone without food or fuel[.] Next morning cold and hungry I started out to try and find camp; but no camp or human being could she see[.] For two days I travelled in this way without food or Covering at night and the third day I came upon an Indian camp, without fear I went up to an Indian who was cooking and tried to make him understand I was hungry and wanted something to eat, he soon made ready a cake and with some beans and milk I soon made a good meal. I then made him to understand that I wanted to cross the river so he kindly ferried me across and put me on the proper road. I traveled on till night again without seeing anyone and quite exhausted I laid me down to sleep. The wolves would pay me a visit and walk off again without doing me any harm.
Morning came and I arose stiff and cold but by walking I soon got warm. I had not traveled far when I was glad to see three men before her me and from them I hoped to get help and some news of camp. When I came up with them they questioned me very closely. I told them I was a Mormon [who] had lost the camp and had been without food only (what I received of Indians) for three days. As soon as they learned I was a Mormon One of them said he would kill every one [of] them that came in his way and got hold of me very roughly and seemed as if he was going to commence to carry out his threat with me, but I was soon pulled out of this disagreeable scene by one of his companions and shown on the road[.] I was almost giving up all hope of seeing the Hand carts again when I noticed ahead of me a waggon. I soon made up to it and found a very agreeable man who told me I had just escaped from a band of robbers[.] This man treated me very kindly and brought me to the trading post where we meet [met] her. We go off the road and take dinner by the side of the river.
Henry F. Struggnel [Strugnel] who was married on board the vessel coming across the Atlantic, leave wife [Emma Caroline Slade] and religion and return back to the fleshpots of Egypt[.] His only excuse being "that he had more luggage to carry than his own" "he was determined he would not do it"
We touch near the river several times travel over very Sandy roads and camp near the river on a fine green bank. Travel today 17 miles.
The camp is astir early call to prayers and off again at 5 o clock travel 4 miles and take breakfast resume our Journey and find the road still Sandy[.] We now come to the 2nd crossing of the Sweetwater[.] here we meet Brs Andrew Smith and Leechman with a covered wagon who have come from the Valley to meet their families who are with us[.] We ford the 3rd and 4th crossing and take dinner[.] we travel [an]other 8 miles and camp by the Sweetwater again[.] Traveled today 20 miles
Continue our Journey over Sandy roads pull along for 9 miles and rest for dinner by the road side no water, travel [an]other 9 miles and camp by the river side at 5 p.m.
Ford the river again, travel 6 miles, take breakfast[.] We keep the right hand road to avoid 2 Crossings[.] Travel at a good [illegible] and reach Strawberry Creek making 23 miles and here we camp.
Rather cold this morning, travel briskly and make 6 miles before breakfast[.] Start again at 10 and ford the last crossing of the Sweetwater. One of our Sisters to day engage as Servant to a family at a trading post her name is Ann Hibbert. We travel on to Pacific Springs and here we camp. Some of the Saints are out of provisions[.] We cross the South Pass of the R[ocky] Mountains[.] we had always looked at the water running east and now over the divide the waters streams run west.
We leave Pacific Springs at 7 am. roll over excellent roads and arrive at Little Sandy at 5 o’clock. Many of the Saints who could not travell quite so fast as the others are left behind[.] I am sent back to bring up the sick who are left behind. Sister [Emma] Booth is cared for by a family on the road who is the only one sick. Travelled to day 27 miles.
Sabbath morning, Some of the Saints come in today who were left behind last night. As Some of our oxen are rather tired it was thought proper that they should rest and wait for Sister Boothe and that some of the sick rest here also while the body of the camp move on
We arrive at Big Sandy and breakfast there[.] Hard times are coming upon us[.] Many are out of provisions and quite a number of the Saints feel dissatisfied[.] We start again at 11 but in a very disorderly manner; some camp 21 miles ahead, and a few handcarts are 6 miles behind the principle camp. Sister [Agnes] Berrall [Birrell] and Hansen stay behind at a Mail station with their friends; but intend Coming on to the Valley in November with the mail Coach
The wagons come in to camp and all concentrate at Big Sandy[.] we move of[f] to Green River[.] We ford in two hours[.] This has been the most difficult fording we have done yet some of the Handcarts being nearly carried down the stream[.] The Sisters are all carried over 1 or 2 at a time on horse back while the Handcarts are getting pulled through the Stream[.] It was here where the Saints were expecting relief from the Valley in the shape of provisions but are disappointed.
Captain Rowley starts early this morning for the next trading Post to get some flour as we are entirely out[.] he soon returns to say he was unsuccessful[.] The only alternative is to kill and ox which satisfies the Saints for the time being. We remain here all day
Rose early and started pulling along without breakfast. I am summond to go on a mission to meet the supplies from the valley with a message to bring them up. I get the Captain's horse who by the way is lame. After bidding farewell to the camp I start on my Journey determined to keep on as long as the horse will until I meet them[.] After travelling till 6 o clock I camped with an emigrant train and asked permission to drive my horse upon among their stock which they granted[.] As I lay down I could not sleep I kept listening for the roll of wagon or buggy[.] At last came the rumbling of wagons like music to my ears. I was up in an instant to stop them and enquire who they were. They said they were from Salt Lake with provisions to meet for the handcarts
I delivered my message to them [and] received a few crackers for myself and laid me down till morning[.] When daylight came I got my horse up and went back to camp where I expected to see a happy company[.] I arrived at night and got rewarded for my trouble by witnessing the joy the brethren from the Valley had brought them in furnishing us liberally of the good things of this life for which they were almost dying for. I was told that the Saints were so overcome with joy to see them that many shed tears. After some provisions are dealt out we move a little further on as there are a few gentiles here who do not seem to understand our outburst of joy so we leave this place for one where we can give proper vent to our feelings and enjoy ourselves, We arrive at Ham's Fork and here we camp. Sister Shanks was missing this morning supposed to wander out of her way in coming into camp last night.
We remain here all day, rest, and enjoy ourselves. Around a large campfire we have a public meeting which we receive some useful instruction also songs and recitations in which the Boys from the Vally contribute largely
We move out at 8, ford two crossings of Hams Fork and arrive at Ecellersville [Eckelsville] where we meet Br Olpin from the Valley who is come to meet his family who are in our Company, We ford Smiths Fork and camp within two miles of Fort Bridger traveled to day 17 miles
We start at 10 and in two hours we are marching in close order through Fort Bridger, all the soldiers are turned out to see the novelty[.] To see 250 persons pulling handcarts over a wild country of a thousand miles and all for a religion in which they have implicit faith and Confidence. and A few of them try their persuavise wiles to to prevail on the Sisters to go no further but it is no go. We take dinner at the "Springs" descend a very steep rocky hill and camp at the foot of it beside "little Muddy" The Camp is disturbed tonight by a man shooting off a revolver and riding into Camp bareheaded, saying that Some damned Mormons had demandeer his horse. We learned afterwards that he was the only person of that stamp around that night for he was an apostate
At 7 a.m. we have a death in our camp. Anna Henysen [Hansen] aged 49. She had been sickly since she left home. We bury her on near to a creek near the south of the road[.] The Danish Saints attend to the rites of burial. We travel over hilly ground but good roads ford Bear River which is very high and camp about ¼ of a mile from the Crossing travelled today 21 miles.
A wet morning but we start with heavy roads but can only go 8 miles and Camp at Yellow Creek[.] We meet here Brs Taylor & Richards who are on their way east to assist in the immigration. Many of the Saints meet their friends here. We enjoy ourselves around a large Camp fire.
Another death in our camp[.] Br Shanks aged 66 dies this morning and is buried on the left of the road near the first camping place at Yellow Creek. We also receive melancholy tidings of the wife of the deceased who strayed from our camp on the evening of the 25 inst. She was discovered by a party of immigrants dead and probably eaten by wolves they buried her where they found her near Green river. In the evening we receive some useful instruction from Brs Richards and Taylor. We Start at 10 a.m. ascend a long hill of gradual ascent of 2 miles and descend on the other Side among dust and camp at Echo Kanyon travelled 6 miles
Rained all night and continues this morning[.] We pull through heavy roads, but we have not much to pull with them which is one comfort[.] Travel 9 miles through the Kanyon and take dinner[.] Camp a mile east of Weber travelled today 17 miles.
We start again, at 8 o clock, cross the Weber Bridge, ascend a long hill take dinner by Kanyon [Canyon] Creek and after crossing Kanyon Creek for 6 times, we camp[.] Many of the Saints meet their friends here.
At 9 a.m. we begin fording the other crossings of this never ending Creek and commence to ascend the Big Mountain with double teaming[.] we manage to get to the top and in descending we tie the wheels of our carts[.] We camp at the foot of this mountain[.] Travelled today 11 miles. We meet Brs Benson, Snow, Kimbal and others of the Brethren here
We ascend the little mountain on the same principle as we did the other, tie our wheels and descend with care.
We fix up a little here and are addressed by Brs Benson, and Snow[.] Being Sunday many came from the City to escort us in also two Bands of Music[.] We are now in view of the City and how shall I describe my feelings of joy when I beheld it. We march in procession through the principle Streets until we arrived at Union Square and there by kind friends was laid out for us everything in the eatable way that the Valley produced, we forgot all our little trials of the journey in the kind and generous feeling that met us on every hand. After partaking of the good things that were so liberally bestowed on us we all dispersed with our several friends and relations