Transcript

In the Spring of 1852 in company with a number of others I left St Louis on the 4th of may and on board the Saranac, took passage for Council Bluffs and after a pleasant voyage of 7 days we arrived at Council Point and as we left the Boat many of us had to sleep on the ground without a tent—The heaviest Dew fell that night that I ever remember sleeping under – The next day we moved up to Kanesville where we had to wait about one month before our Company was organized and started

I stayed with Bro George Canning until Bro [Harrison] Peck arrived, who was comming up by land, having come that way to purchase cattle for the journey[,] we going parteners in the team. We staid in Kanesville until Friday June 11th when we left for the Ferry. The Wind was so strong we could not cross in safety

June 13. a child was born in Bro [Richard] Golightlys wagon – the brethren have much trouble in keeping track of their cattle after turning them loose unles some one is watching them[.] The wind continue to blow a perfect gale and the folks were anxious to cross the River to join their friends who had crossed before the Wind rose so high

June 15 – I was riding horse back after some cattle, when on going down a little on the gallop – the horse fell and threw me over his head – The horse stopped but I kept on going – when I stopped I found I was hurt pretty bad on one side –

Monday 14th In the evening the wind got lower and the Ferry Boat was put to work again[.] we crossed over and camped on the bank

Tuesday 15 – We started from the River to join the balance of our company who was waiting for us about a mile a head – When we finaly got ready to start, it commenced to rain in short showers and before long we had to stop– There was a man in one of the Wagons that had died of the Cholera and was being conveyed to the top of a hill to bury him, when the horses attatched to the wagon ran away throwing an old lady out and ran over her <&>– Killing her – making a rather sad commencement to our overland journey– In the evening the rains fell in torrents– I was glad to lie down on a bed in a tent – I stood guard 2 hours – plenty of wild Strawberries around – Our company was organized with Bro [John] Tidwell as Captain of the Company – Captain of the first 10 – T. Robbins [Thomas Robins] – 2nd 10 J[ohn] King – 3rd – 10 – Bro [Adolphia] Young 4th 10 – [Andrew] Whitlock – 5th 10 H[enry] Garfield – Cap of Guard J[ames]. D. Ross.

Wednesday 16th About noon we pulled up stakes and moved some distance before night then halted to make some repairs to Wagons– We held meeting in the Evening, when the Captain gave us some good counsel and advice and exhorted all to do their duty faithfully in all cases– The Clerk Then read the Camp rules, which were very good. after that the Captain of the guard called the names of the watch for the night[.] We then had a few tunes by the Band which was composed of 5 instruments one Bugle – a cornet, Trombone, Piccalo and Drum. we then retired for the night and I slept soundly – We are the 5th Company

17th We were awakened about 4 oclock to let the cattle loose to feed – It was near noon before the Wagon was repaired – We then started off and went to the 6 Mile grove we found our road to be over a succession of hills and vales, and as <the> first wagon stopped on a hill and it being on a large curve, we could see the whole Company of 61 Wagons in view at once, it was a pretty sight – 3 Indians came begging to day. We camped at night on a hill that gave us a fine view – we found tolerable good water – We had a few tunes by the Band, then prayers –

There were 2 or 3 sick to day, one Serious[.] no accident to day. It is a sight worth seeing. 61 Wagons in a large Circle. A beautiful greeen in the centre. Tents Horses and sheep on the inside – and cattle on the outside – with a guard on the outside and inside of the Circle

18th Fine morning – Heavy dew, one sister very sick, not expected to live, 2 or 3 others ailing. Our company took the lead to day. When 2 or more companys camp pretty close together, they take the lead by turns. Had some difficulty in crossing a Slough, broke a wagon in the last 10. Came on to the Papeau [Papillion] Creek and camped on a hill in view of the creek. Some Californians having had some trouble here with the red skins, the Captain of the guard placed a double watch on for the night. I was drawn on the 2nd watch. Before morning we heard the howling of Wolves but saw none or any Indians. The old Lady that was sick died at night and was buried 2 hours after Sun set. – During this days march some signs of parting with the company were manifested by Westwood and his driver

Saturday 19th June Started about 8 oclock and soon got down to the Creek, over which there is a very narrow bridge and steep banks[.] All got over safe about noon and halted for dinner, then went on to the [Elk] Horn over an uneven and crooked road, a distance of 9 miles. as we got in view of the River, a fine scene presented it self in the low bottom.

There is a good ferry over this River[.] many of the Cattle swam accross – it was fun to watch the Cattle swim, Especialy the Horses being rode over. 2, 10s got over[.] I had to stay on the other side all night

I hear of no sickness to day. The mosquitos are very bad on the bottoms and trouble us much at night. The wolves were near our camp to night

Sunday 20th June – 1852. The remainder of the teams crossed the Horn River and all formed a Kreul [corral] for the day – I got a bath in the River with many others. Some fish were caught. There was a spring of water near the River and plenty of wood on the East side – A general meeting in the afternoon Bro Ross spoke – It was moved and carried that our Captain have a horse to ride – Bro Eliazer King Jr offered one, and it was accepted –

Some bye laws were read and accepted for the regulation of the guard and Herdsmen – Some few repairs were made to day, so as not to hinder the Camp the next day – Some Sickness – Bro Davis worse – Thunder and Lightning and strong wind and rain about midnight. no accident, only one tent blown down and the inmates scared.

monday 21st A fine morning after the rain we did not start until 9³⁰ cause a broken axle – Several Indians visited our Camp, from them we learned that two Steam boats was at the landing at Council point– we halted about noon for an hour or more – then traveled until near Sundown and arrived at the Platte River where we camped for the night. We broke a yoke to day– Plenty of Wood and water – Water not very good – Some Lightening & Thunder and considerable rain in the night[.] The morning watch having seen some Indians around the Camp – I with others were called up to strengthen the watch – I got up at 2 A.M. It was very dark and raining hard but nothing was lost – one man was sick all night – There were 6 persons baptized last night

Tuesday June 22nd Rainy morning, not fit for traveling, started about noon, Roads soft noticed several places where others had camped – cool all day – Halted about 5 p.m. on an open prairie – no water within ½ mile, and that only slough or rain water, a dull evening and likely for rain – good feed for cattle – my health generaly good – Rainy and cold weather and sleeping in a Tent, liable to be called up at any hour to protect our cattle from the Indians – presents a fine contrast to living in a good house free from danger and care – woke up before 4 oclock to loose cattle and turn them out to feed at 6 a.m. The Bugle is sounded for prayers, and at 7³⁰ it is sounded again for hitching up and starting

23rd a cold morning, making over coats in demand[.] The Camp was alarmed last night by one of the guards firing his gun at some wolves[.] William Westwoods wife [Fanny Westwood] presented him with a daughter [Elizabeth Clara Westwood] about 2 a.m.

Broke camp at 8³⁰ and traveled over a smooth level prairie ever since we left the Horne River. Halted about noon at a point where the road joins or crosses the River, Started again at 1³⁰ and traveled until we came to a place where the road and and River nearly joined – Plenty of timber – the water in the River is good – weather moderately warm all day – Cloudy after sundown – Had a few tunes – passed a new stove left by the side of the road by a California train

Thursday June 24 – 1852 Arose with the Sun – a fine morning – Two men sent on to the Loupe [Loup] Fork to buy a Bull – and I drove a horse team for one of the men during the day – We crossed schell [Shell] creek over a good bridge also crossed 2 or 3 Sloughs. one a very bad one. Halted as usual at noon – Traveled on until eve over a level country. camped where there were no timber and the water not very good – I begin to think this is a great country.

June 25th Fine morning – heavy dew, 11 miles from the Loupe Fork – Halted at noon about 2 miles from the Ferry[.] Hitched up and arrived there about 3 p.m. and camped for the rest of the day– The women done their washing – met some women folks returning who had lost their husbands, in company with 6 men from the valley – Had a fine time with music, Singing and dancing – These brethren gave us some account of things in general in Salt Lake valley – There were 10 wagons waiting here for company[.] wrote a letter to Lucy Fox in St Louis and sent it by Bro Margretts

Saturday June 26th A rainy morning – a Sister [Ann] Davies died – a family in our Company has the small pox and have moved some way from the camp, to remain until a change for the better takes place

Comminced crossing this Morning – There is a good ferry here. Wind blowing hard – the cattle had to wade and swim over – The brethren from the Valley left us this morning to persue their journey to the Missouri River – all our Company crossed to day – The 7th company came up to the Ferry as soon as we <all> got over[.] we camped about a mile from the ferry – a rainy Evening. there is a little sickness in Camp but nothing serious – Beebe’s Comp. thinks we are to slow for him and intend to go ahead by themselves –

Sunday June 27th – 1852 Heard the first thing that the 6th comp was at the ferry and was crossing before the 7th Company which was there first and some of them were for traveling by them selves independant of the Comp. we traveled about 3 hours and campd in a good place for grass, but not so good for wood and water. Had a public meeting in the evening – I met with a painful accident to day, which came near causing me to loose an eye – I was unyoking a pair of cows – when one of them raised her head so sudden as to strike me with one of her horns about ½ inch below my right eye. it made a bad looking scar. and caused me a good deal of pain in my cheek bone but by applying a Slippery Elm plaster it healed up very soon, but the pain in my cheek bone was there a long time

28th My Eye is much better this morning the wound is healed up leaving a mark like the scratch of a pin, we traveled to day over a vast plain with scarce a rise in the ground.

To day Bro [Lewis] Vance (who had been sick several days) – died and was buried at noon – Traveled 18 miles to day and camped a few rods from the river.

This is reported to be the last place for 100 miles <for wood> and the folks are baking up lots of bread – about 6 p.m. the clouds gathered up black as night – The sky looked wild – about 7 P.M. The storm came with a gale of wind[.] I stood guard to night – Beebe’s camp is a few rods from us. all well with them – some few complaining with us. Small Pox getting better

29th Fine morning after the rain. We stopped at our camping place until noon, to get bread baked for a 100 mile Journey – before we started the 6th Company came up and campd a little beyond us. I believe this is the hottest day yet. we traveled about 5 miles and halted about a mile from the River where we had to go for water – on account of Bro Robbins, Cap of 1st 10 acting contrary and manifesting a rebelious spirit[.] The brethren voted him out of Office and chose Bro <Telemachus> Rogers in his stead –

Widow Welding’s team ran away this afternoon and started 5 or 6 others[.] one of them broke a yoke and bows. I drove a Horse team and rode some to day

we camped under some bluffs on top of which a fine view of the Camp was obtained – The circle was very large to night and looked fine – 18 tents inside also the horses, sheep, dogs &c

30th about 2 a.m. every prospect for a big storm, but it did not amount to much. I went ¾ of a mile for water and met with any quantity of skeeters

Our road this morning was through a ravine and over rolling ground. Halted at noon some distance from the road for water, by a creek that was very clear. While stopping here Bros Johnson & Geo. B. Wallace came up with a 2 horse teams. They are risking traveling alone – they stopped with us at night.

There was a nice breeze this morning but very hot in the afternoon –

Camped a short distance from the river. no wood to be got on this side[.] Had a few tunes with the Brass Band[.] I had a bathe in the river. Water shallow and warm, rappid current.

Thursday 1st July A pleasant cold morning – started about 8 a.m. – fine breeze, passed 5 graves and the remains of 2 dead oxen close by the road side, up to the present time we have passed 15 graves including 5 deaths in our own company. met some folks returning from Oregon. Camped at night with no wood or water near.

William Westwood and his Teamster dissolved partnership this morning. Prayers at night – retired to rest and slept soundly.

2nd Fine morning, heavy dew – I drove team for Bro Davis who was sick – passed 5 or 6 graves to day – Traveled 5 or 6 miles over a very sandy road, fine breeze all day – came to Prairie Creek about 3 p.m. all got over safe and camped on the other side – The 7th Company came up as we were starting this morning. We kept the lead all day – and they came up again as we were crossing the creek – 6th company in sight. Some sickness in camp. Our little Brass Band went to the 7th Company to night and played a few tunes

3rd A cool morning – some of the 7th company started early – we followed and arrived at Wood River about 2. p.m. crossed over and camped a mile beyond. The water was up to the axle trees and the widest we have forded yet – Widow Weldings team ran away in crossing the river, but no accident of any importance happened[.] plenty of wood and water. It is often the case that as the Sun goes down, the sky gets black and the wind rises and oft times the rain comes down in torrents. Sister John Hepworth [Mary] brot to Camp a young Samuel -

Sunday 4th July 1852 Wood River 169½ miles from Winter Quarters – Camped here all day and held 2 public meetings. The Sacrament was administered in the afternoon. We had a first rate meeting[.] The Spirit of the Lord was in our midst and all present seemed happy.

A portion of the 11th company crossed the River this morning – and this Eve n[.] The 6th company passd our camp and went a little beyond – Bro Young is very bad to day – The general feeling is not to crowd our cattle, let others pass us as they like – The 8th company is camped on the banks of the River making 250 wagons in the space of 2 miles. I was herding this morning

July5th A beautiful fine morning – Bro Young, Cap of 3rd 10, died at 1 a.m. of Dysentery – We started about 7³⁰ and traveled about 14 miles before halting for dinner – camped at night close to a beautiful clear stream of water and plenty of wood – during this days march we passed many graves, probably a Score – the wolves had opened some of them, the bones being left on the top of the ground. the bed clothes in which the bodies were wrapped were torn into shreds – we saw one wolf running accross the prairie – [William] Westwood and Kibble [Kebbell] wanted to leave the Company, but a couple of passengers was opposed to it so they did not leave

6th about 1 oclock a.m. we had a strong gale of wind and rain – the hardest we have had yet – 9 tents were blown down while the inmates were in bed – I was on guard in the morning watch. very hot to day – made a good days journey – Saw some prairie dogs to day, so called from their bark – they are of a light color, rather larger than a cat and live under ground – passed more graves to day – Camped a little off the road in <near> a branch of the river

7th Soon after starting we crossed a deep ravine and several others during the day – Some of our men and dogs gave chase to a woolf, but did not catch it[.] I saw an old rattle snake and a young one to day – the first I have ever seen – met 2 wagons from Fort Laramie, passd a few graves – one of them the wolves had torn open and devoured the body – I drove for Bro Davies to day he wants me to drive to the Valley for him and promised to give me 2 cows and some clothes when we get there[.] as we drove into camp we had a great gale of wind[.] no damage done

8th Fine morning – strong wind in the night – wolves howled around us – I slept in a wagon for the first time on the journey – I asked Bro Davi[e]s to put on paper what he promised to give me for driving for him he would not do it, so I did not drive for him – Bro Young’s child [Samuel] died. All crossed Buffalo creek in Safety, Saw one Elk and 8 Buffalo’s in the afternoon – Bros Kibble [Kebbell] and [Martin] Cole taken with the Cholera, both very bad – I stayed up with Bro Kibble [Kebbell] all night – camped at a place near the River – no timber, Several taken sick with Diarhea

9th a dull rainy morning – Bro Henry Kibble [Kebbell] died this morning at 2 a.m. he suffered much. we did not travel much to day – stopped to get wood and bake some a head – met 7 men with pack mules from California – They brot in some Buffalo meat – Walter Read died to day aged 11 years and 6 months – this is the 9th we have buried – 7 persons were baptized to night. no wood on this side of the River – we had to wade 3 feet deep and several rods accross to an Island to get some

10th morning cool and dull, some rain – passd some Buffalo about ¾ of a mile away – Our road still lays over a level country with a few creeks to cross and some sloughs to pull through – we traveled until after 6 P.M. 2/8 of a mile from good water and no wood nearer than ¾ of a mile. Plenty of Buffalo about 4 miles from camp. we have traveled 92 miles this week. no accident and all pretty well satisfied with the weekly travel.

Sunday 11th July Fine day and the camp rested – some men were sent out to hunt Buffalo. Bro Goddard’s youngest child [Henry] died this morning – Public meeting at 11 a.m. Bro Cole died[.] This is the 11th we have buried. The Hunters brot in a Buffalo – some others went out and shot one <10 times> 4 miles from camp – The Buffalo still kept on going. The men ran out of ammunition and returned to Camp[.] My self and Bro [John] Gillispie went out on horse back to look after the wounded beast – we found it still standing but soon fell to rise no more – we then returned to camp for a wagon to bring in the meat. In the mean time the brethren who had shot the animal returned and skinned it and had it ready for us by the time we returned with the wagon – as soon as we left with the meat – about 3 score wolves ran up to the place where the Buffalo had been killed – they soon licked every thing up and a part of them came after the wagon following us a mile or so, they fell off by degrees until only 3 large grey wolves were left and they kept at a safe distance and before we reached camp they droped out of sight – The meat was divided among the camp – It was a stormy night – I had to stand guard on the 2nd watch. Wolves around the camp all night

12th Fine morning after the rain – had som Buffalo stakes for breakfast – started about 8[:]15 – Plenty of Buffalo near the camp – passed over some low sandy bluffs, which was hard on the cattle. we camped near the River, plenty of mosquitoes – Prayers at 8³⁰ to night

13th July A beautiful fine morning – We started a little before 8 oclock, Came to Skunk Creek, a clear stream very shallow, low banks – The road runs near the bluffs to avoid a long Swamp, Our road ran over several very sandy places, In the afternoon we passed 3 of the finest boiling springs I ever saw and was quite a curiosity – passed a number of graves one contained both man and wife. Many of them appears to have died on the 19th of June – Camped near the river got a bath at night – There is a fork of the Platte River a little below here, This is 294 miles from Winter Quarters.

14th Fine morning – Soon came to Carrion Creek – In fording, a wagon was upset, but broke nothing except a bow, – I carried over Several ladies females. A baby died and was buried this morning – We passed part of the 6th and part of the 7th Companies[.] We arrived at noon at the place where the 200 mile journey without wood commenced – the Companies having to depend more or less on Buffalo chips and willos – Passed more graves to day – General Washing day – Wood is scarce here, only Willows – and that on the other side of the water, which was from 3 to 4 feet deep, rain fell in the Evening.

15th Buffaloes being seen near camp, men were sent out to shoot some. 3 men on horse back and 4 of us on foot, we started 2 or 3 small herds, but we could not get near for a very long time – The Horsemen shot one but it was a long way from camp – 5 of us footmen started after a drove on our own hook – but we walked and ran for miles before we shot and then at a great distance – and altho wounded it got away from us – We got a shot at a buck but only broke its leg – it got away from us and our <we> being so tired, we could not follow it, The country over which we traveled was all hills and valleys, just like the waves of the sea – We were very tired and thirsty, but could get no water – we walked about 30 miles to day – after getting back to the Platte Bottoms, we found our selves further back on the road than where we started from in the morning. on our return from our hunting trip we were guided by the Sun or we should have been lost – on reaching the road we drew lots who should go forward to the camp and send back a couple of horses to help us to camp. The lot fell on me. we had been walking about 13 hours and I was tired and stiff and did not get over it for several days – we got nothing for our pains, but tired limbs, It taught me a lesson.

16th more men sent out this morning for Buffalo – Less than a mile from camp they soon shot one and with 7 yoke of cattle they draged it into camp – cut it up and divided it among the people. We then started on our journey which was not very pleasant – the road being wet and muddy – we crossed 3 creeks – in the last one a wagon upset, but it was soon all right again – camped at night near the river – good place for bathing – I rode all day and drove a Horse team for Mrs Welding she having parted with her driver. A meeting was called at night in relation to Bro King taking his horse from Cap Tidwell after considerable talk it was restored to him, Bro Goddard’s children very sick.

17th This day has been very hard on Cattle[.] Crossed a Creek, wide but not deep[.] Crossed some Bluffs very sandy and steep, came out of them near the River. – A ¼ of a mile further on we crossed a small creek and soon camped –. While Supper was getting the 6th company passed us – But little sickness in our camp, except Bro Goddard’s 2 children – I stood guard 2nd watch – We camped some distance from the River – A swamp being between us and the river made it hard for us to get water, – Bro Westwood found a cow to day.

Sunday 18th July 1852 Fine morning, pulled up stakes and started for the Sandy Bluffs, which is some distance over and very hard for teams – crossed some small streams, We camped on the west side of the Bluffs at a point close to a Creek that ran nearly round the camp – River some distance off – I and 2 others crossed over, wading and swimming to the South side of the river 1/3 of a mile accross – We had a meeting in the afternoon and a council meeting in the evening about mrs Welding – Killed a rattle Snake in the grass on the side of the road – The Platte Bottoms is not so wide here. 349 miles from Winter quarters.

July 19 We left our Camping ground and traveled slowly, for the day was very hot – The hottest yet – In some places the road was very sandy and hot enough to roast eggs. – We halted on the banks of the river at noon and drove the cattle into the water which they seemed to enjoy – In the after noon we traveled only a short distance and camped early – Bro Golightly’s wagon had a new axle put in – Bro Goddard’s boy [George] died after we came into camp – There was a trial of Mrs Welding and her driver at which a decision was rendered, that both parties hold to their engagement or forfeit some property to the value of the provisions needed for the bal[ance] of the journey. This was carried by a unanimous vote, with one exception, viz Bro Ross.

July 20th 1852 the first news this morning was that Sister [Jane] Foster was dead – She was buried before we started. The 6th company camped some distance behind us last night, but passed us this morning while we were making repairs – Passed more graves to day – more sandy roads – crossed 2 or 3 creeks to day safely. Halted near the river at noon. Traveled on till Sundown, then camped near the river. One axle sprung to day – commenced to make another – Passed graves that had been opened by wolves and the bodies ressurected

21st Left our camping place at 7⁴⁵ a.m. and soon came to some sand hills where we had to double teams, all got over safely – we traveled about 2 miles further, then halted for dinner. Passed some graves to day, also crossed some creeks to cross – I had the pleasure to day of carrying some females over one of the creeks – a rather wide one and when about half way over, I droped one of the young women into the water accidently of course ? she gathered up her skirts and tip toed over the balance of the way – the creek was from 12 to 18 inches deep[.] This caused much fun and talk in the camp – Passed the Lone Tree this afternoon and camped near Ash Hollow ½ mile from the river. mosquotes [mosquitoes] very numerous – had a smart shower this afternoon.

22 nd Left camp about 8 A.M. and soon came to Castle Creek – 6 rods wide quick Sandy <bad> bottom – The bluffs on the south side of river have many Cedartrees on them – The bluffs look barren and rockey – poor feed – We saw, we saw 3 wagons and some pack mules on the opposite side of the river returning from the West.

The Platte <valley> River at this place is not very wide. we camped near the river with the 6th and 7th companies in view a head of us – WilliamWestwood went ahead so much that he camped with a company a head of us – Bro R- Golightly and my self played a few tunes then retired to bed –

23rd Soon after Sunrise we saw 2 mule or horse teams on the South side of the river and soon after 19 wagons and some loose stock returning. Had a busy morning putting in an axletree in our Wagon – this was a very hot day and hard on our teams – 4 wagons and some loose stock passed us bound for Oregon. we camped early in a splendid place for feed – one of our men got caught in a snap with a skunk, thinking it was a cat he went to catch it, when it played a trick on him – tho the days are very warm the nights are cool enough to let us sleep well.

Saturday 24th July A fine morning – I have been thinking I would like to be in the valley to day, it being the anniversary of the entrance of the Pioneers into Salt Lake valley[.] One of the men with the Oregon Company told me he had counted 198 graves between the missouri river and this place[.] we are now about 420 miles on our journey – It has been very hot to day could not travel far – passd the Bluffs that resemble the ruins of old Castles[.] at noon I met with some black Currants and cherries – we went off the road to get near the river to camp. There was a dance in the Corrall to night[.] The moon shone bright and the stars added their light. – every thing passd of pleasantly[.] I stood first watch to night

Sunday 25th July 1852 We staid in camp all day[.] held 2 meetings – and administered the Sacrament in the afternoon = I went about 3 miles for black currants. The bluffs here are high and rocky – no feed except near the river. Our camp is about clear of sickness. Toward evening a breeze sprung up which was very refreshing after a very hot day – We had a good meeting in the evening in our ten –

Had a good bathe in the river this morning – While returning to Camp with several others from a stroll – we came so near to a large rattle snake unobserved by us, that it coiled it self up ready for a spring – but not being disposed to quarrel with it, we turned aside and left it to enjoy undisputed possession of the place

26th A fine breeze and a little thunder this morning. The sun shone hot but the breeze kept up all day – we traveled over sandy roads nearly all day. Came in view of chimney rock – where there is so much sand the feed is poor. Our teams have suffered from the heat the last 4 days[.] The 6th Company has been in sight to day. The wind is stronger and an appearance of rain – The brethren tried to get up a dance for the little boys and girls, which lasted until 10 oclock P.M. A solitary man stay with our camp to night, he is footing it to Oregon

27th Started about 8 A.M. The sun shone on us without mercy, but we traveled on until near noon, then rested on the bank of the river, Sister [Ann] Wiltshire’s child [Ann] died this morning and was buried at noon. It only took sick last night – The air is so clear that we can see a great distance – We are now camped opposite Chimney Rock at noon and tho it appeared only 3 or 4 miles away – yet after traveling until night some that crossed the river and went up to the rock said it was 5 miles from Camp – It is very large at the base, but much smaller at the top. much in the shape of a chimney at the glass works. It is very fine and warm at night

28th we left our camp opposite chimney rock about 8 A.M. and moved on until 1 oclock P.M. good feed. Plenty of Salaratus around here – The road to day is not so sandy. but the sun is still very warm hearted toward us. We camped at night in view of the rock, with the 6th Company ½ mile above us, but as soon as we got into shape for the night they started off again – We learned from the 6th Company that a man came over the river and joined their company that had been driving sheep on the south side, they had started 3 months ago with 10000 sheep and over 1000 had died – We passed them on Monday. the Bluffs or mounds on the south side of the river appears like works of Art, passed a Cow lying dead

29th Left camp a little before 8 A.M. – There was good feed here and the cattle done well – The brother that joined us from another company, lost a cow this morning by death – Passed an ox left by a company a head of us to lame to walk[.] passed several graves the last few days[.] the wolves had been at their work of resurecting some of the bodies – Saw a letter nailed to a stick to day directed to mr. Joseph Russelt – Liverpool – passed the 6th company this afternoon, while they were Halted to set tires – passed spring creek. water good – We camped 3 or 4 miles from the 6th company and some distance from the river, with a slough between us. Feed not good[.] Health of camp good

July 30th – 1852 Fine morning but rather cool – broke camp and started about 8 A.M. and soon came to the river –

The road has been good to day, met several men with Pack mules and one wagon, returning from California all well. The road this afternoon has been very pleasant and good – also good feed where we Camped along side of a fine cold water creek[.] The hot weather seems to be very trying on the wheels of our wagons. There begins to be a scarcity of Soap and other groceries in camp

31st A fine cool morning – was on guard last night – I found it good to have a Blanket over coat on and a blanket around me – Bright Moon light night. Our Neighbor and his driver exchanged hard words about some rope. Traveled until noon expecting to find timber and stay until Monday – While getting our dinner 4 horse teams came up with Bros Ezra T. Benson. F. D. Richards, E. Snow and others – They consented to stay with us one night – The feed being bad for some distance a head of us, we camped where they found us. Some rain fell about 5³⁰ P.M. – Later in the evening our little Brass band played a few tunes – Each of the brethren of the 12 spoke to us and I felt much edified.

Sunday 1st August 1852 A fine morning after the rain – The brethren left us about 9 A.M. Bro Benson felt like dancing last night, but it rained to much. William Westwood wanted to go with them, but they would not have him, his wagon ran to heavy and his horses to poor[.] We were counseled to divide our company in two parts by Bro Benson, some felt hard at parting, tho for so short a time and distance – The Sacrament was administered in the afternoon – passed a pleasant evening on the river bank – better known as moon light Scenes

2^nd A fine morning – some of the herdsmen being careles, the cattle came up late and it was 8³⁰ before we started, but we made a good days journey considering the sandy road – I found a yoke of old cattle on the bank of the river – we camped in a pleasant spot near the river – The bluffs on the South side are dotted with trees[.] plenty of dry wood along the road and green trees along the river. passed lots of currants to day and got some for our table – Hugh McKee killed a rattle snake 9 years old, it was a large one – Several Indians came to our camp to night, fine looking fellows, all on horse back. They belong to the Sioux tribe and looked clean

Aug 3rd A few of us started a head of the train to go over to the Fort at Laramie to buy ponies and post letters. on arriving at the Ford we saw the Fort before us[.] The larger buildings looked like Factories and was situated in a most beautiful valley, surrounded on the East and West by high bluffs dotted with small timber. The Fort is about a mile and half from the river – on the north side the water was deep – we could not wade it – I sent my letter by a man who was living with some Indians. Saw some Ladies also a rattle snake – Halted at noon just above the Fort – The road this afternoon is the most pleasant we have yet traveled, we soon came in view of uncle Sam’s Farm, where we saw corn and potatoes and other things growing – it looked very refreshing to the eye – but we did not taste them – We camped in a beautiful spot – The other division of our company came up

4th Broke camp about 7⁴⁵ A.M. and resumed our tedious journey among the hills oe’r hill and dale – many large rocks in the road – The bluffs high with lots of Pine and Fir trees[.] we found a spring a little off the road[.] many steep places to go over to day and not a blade of green grass, but all dried up – The last hill was very steep. we halted at noon to rest the cattle in full view of Laramie Peaks. The tops of which seemed to be among the clouds – The journey this afternoon was nearly all down hill until we came to a point near the river, when we stopped for the night. many tires came loose to day – there is no feed here[.] the 7th company was just leaving as we came up

Aug 5th Arose early to herd cattle – and found we had to stop some hours to set tires and finally we had to stop all day and a busy <day> it was – I was very hungry and sleepy all day – In the evening the herdsmen were sent out with the cattle to keep them out all night – a part of the 8th company came up to us at night[.] Owen Dinsdale and family and brother was with this company – they also stopped there for repairs. These were pleasant days – I enjoyed the privilege of viewing the grand works of nature and to travel among the everlasting hills &c

6th arose at 3³⁰ A.M. and brot the cattle in early and started before 6 oclock and wended our way among the hills – We halted between 10 and 11 oclock to bait ouselves and cattle[.] Then drove on to a creek off the road at 3 p.m. – halted again to bait and rest the cattle for an hour. Hitched up again and traveled until about 6 p.m. thinking we had done a good days work

The cattle done <did> well. some of them stayed out all night – we saw the tracks of Indians to day. Plenty of wild Sage around the camp – killed a rattle snake Passed some graves, roads pretty good[.] Laramie Peak still seems to be opposite towering far above the clouds.

7th Started at 7³⁰ crossed the creek all right except Bro Snelgroves wagon had the tongue broke, but we soon fixed it up for the present. but put in another at noon, Roads good to day. Had a long drive to the river and at ¼ to 1 halted for 2 hours and moved on just as the other part of our company came up

The camp traveled well to day – saw the marks of Indians on the road this after noon dragging their lodge poles[.] We got alongside the river this evening by driving off the road ¼ of a mile – pretty good feed and plenty of wood.

Sunday 8th August 1852[.] Started about 8 A.M. traveled a few miles then went off the road some distance to the river – found plenty of feed. stayd there the balance of the day – the cattle done <did> first rate – Set a few tires. The women done <did> their washing. At 4 P.M. a great storm of wind, Rain and Hail paid us a visit – we felt it very much for it was very cold. It lay on the ground some minutes before it dissolved – A solitary Buffalo crossed the road above our camp, but to far off for us to get it. 8 antelope passed in front of our train this morning – several wild geese near the camp, but they were to wild for us – Held meeting in the evening in the corral.

Aug–9th–1852 Arose this morning by 3 oclock to herd the cattle – Heavy dew, cattle fed well, Westwoods 2 cows ran away from the herd this morning – A young Buffalo chased by a wolf ran passed the herd. I drove for Br [Matthew] Bell to day over a rather bad road – Bell returned without the cows – Traveled 11¾ miles – then halted for dinner about 2½ hours. Our road through the hills was very crooked – we had to go a long way round, according to the distances marked we traveled 26¼ miles – there being no stopping place for water in the last 8 miles. I took a route over the hills nearer the river – there were stones of all colors in these hills – some nearly transparent[.] I got into camp after Sun down, the latest night out yet – Westwoods team got fast in a bad place this morning he was thrown out – broke a hound and hurt a little but scared worse

Aug–10th–1852 A cool morning, The wolves were plentiful in the hills and serenaded us every night – and often the dogs joined in. The cattle were driven over the river last night – Bro C[harley] Miller & Turk and Dave staid back yesterday morning to wait for the other company to come up expecting them to be along before night, but they did not arrive. Bell and Westwood stopped back until noon – Charley Miller, Turk and Dave came up to night after Sundown, having seen the other part of our company. The feed here is very bad – the cattle are driven over the river every night with a guard[.] We killed a Buffalo a little before Sundown and brot it in some hours after – It was 4 miles from camp

11th Started about 8 oclock and traveled over a Sandy road until noon, when we arrived at what is called The Ferry – Found part of the 7th company here as well – We then formed a circle and camped there the bal of the day. The wind blew strong all night

12th Broke camp at usual time, our road was hilly and sandy all the forenoon[.] We met a band of Indians of the Rappaho [Arapaho] Tribe – They had many fine ponies. There were but few men, nearly all Squaws, they were dressd very fine[.] We also met a man with 2 mules from California and 12 days from Salt Lake – He brot good reports of plenty and cheap – We camped where we found a boat under the bank of the river gathered some Buffalo berries and found them very good – got up a dance in the evening.

13th Passed some pretty spots this morning – Saw several dead cattle and lots of Buffalo berries – Some part of road was very hilly and Sandy to day but we came to a good spot at night for wood, water and feed – the 7th company a short distance a head of us, and the other wing of our company 3 or 4 miles behind[.] Passed a lame mule left by some company a head of us at the foot of a very bad hill[,] the worst yet – Camped for the night on the bank of the river; where the cattle done <did> well – The other wing of our company about 3 miles behind us.

14th Left early and soon came to the upper Ferry and Ford. We took the left hand road, found it rough and hilly, no feed[.] Halted at the River for noon. Bro Tidwell our Captain came up to us as we were leaving – We traveled until 7³⁰ and camped where there were no feed or water and all appeared to be tired of the days travel – David Ross got his axle broke and had to stay behind to get it welded

Sunday 15th august 1852 Left our camping place by half past four and felt it pleasant to travel in the cool of the morning tho we had no breakfast – went a few miles to a good place to feed – found that we were on the guide route again. Passed Rock avenue and some poisonous places – Saw many carcases of dead oxen and cows – Passed some fine springs of water – our road lay over a long high hill – a fine view from the Summit – In the evening we came near passing the 7th Compy but they hurried up their teams and we let them pass – we camped near a creek – The 7th Compy a mile beyond The nights are cool – Early morning ditto

16th The cattle came up this morning looking rather empty – There were a score of fires around the camping place and the remains of many wagons were seeen along the road. the road is sandy from here to the Platte – It looks as tho we had got to the Rocky mountains for there are plenty of them around.

As we turned off the road to camp on the banks of the Sweet Water[.] R. Golightly’s cow had her shoulder put out – other cattle showed signs of giving out[.] There is a good Salaratus Lake not far from where we camped – we gathered some, but it is not very white. our Provisions are in the last stage of consumption and very billious – 2 wagons stopped back to wait for Bro Ross & wagon

17th This morning our folks went to a Lake close by and gathered a lot of Salaratus – We started about our usual time and soon came to Independance Rock – I went on the top, it is a great curiosity on the road, many names are painted on it[.] half a mile further and we forded the Sweet Water River the first time. We traveled on until we came near the Devils Gate and then camped for the day to repair wagons, and wash clothes – Word came to us from Cap Tidwels division, that some Indians had paid them a visit on Saturday night, which scared them a little

18th Broke camp near 10 A.M. I went forward with many others to walk thro the Devils Gate. It was truly a sight worth seeing – the rocks rise perpendicularly 400 feet. There were large curious looking rocks in the water – we had a good deal of fun in helping the women folks to jump from Rock to Rock. I shall not soon forget the pleasure and the excitement of that time – Passed a whiskey shop on the other side of Devils Gate – In crossing a stream while going down the bank – Bells wagon upset and broke the bows – Halted about 3 hours before sunset for Ross’s wagon to come up[.] met a man who said he was 11 days from the valley –

19thBefore we started apostle Lorenzo Snow passed us on his way to the valley – our road as been mostly sandy all day – The Rocky mountains on the right of the road are very high and may well be called a mountainous country – no feed only near the river on either side. Passed 2 graves and several dead animals[.] one of our steers are getting tender footed for the first time – I had a stroll among the mountains trying to get to the top, but found it impossible – There are some trees among the rocks and some berries[.] The sweet water River is very crooked.

20th The road to day is sandy and heavy and the cattle not being well fed we traveled very slowly – Sister Cole’s cow was left behind unable to travel, others looked bad – We passed by 30 dead oxen and cows within a short distance of the road, also the remains of broken wagons – We forded the river this afternoon – then word came to us that Bro Ross cattle had given out, so we stopped for that day. I had a stroll up to the highest point of rock and had a fine view of the Country and the sweet water River, which is very crooked – Saw a large Salaratus Lake – It came on to rain as we went to bed

21st a very cold morning, can hardly keep warm with an over coat. started late this morning – waited until Bro Ross came up. Forded the river twice. Passed between some rocky ridges. Road rough and sandy – The wind blew very strong all day with clouds of dust camped early, traveled only 8 miles. This seems to be the end of the rocky ridges for the present – There is a camp or two close behind us. Cap Tidwell’s Camp is seperated from us by 2 other camps[.] The wind calmed down in the evening[.] We are in view of mountains covered with Snow

Sunday 22nd August 1852. This is the coldest morning yet. There was ice on the water this morning[.] we traveled about 16 miles and campd on a bottom. not much feed – Road this morning Sandy – in the afternoon hard – passed 2 or three graves and several dead cattle – Some of ours sick and tender footed

23rd I was herding this morning, found it very cold, a few wagons from the 11th and 8th companies came up to us[.] We forded the river 3 times this morning then halted on a good spot of feed. Intending to make shoes for the oxen. Cap Tidwell’s part of the company came up to us – They report [David] few head of cattle – we lost 2 this morning – no fuel but sage brush – Bro Nelson had a boy run over on Saturday last, by both wheels of his heavy wagon and strange to say was not killed – but is doing well – Some Shoes and nails were made and some oxen shod – our old Jack died – Bro [John] Murray lost one – and the other part of our company lost more – John King and a part of his ten left us contrary to order.

24th Started about 9³⁰ and after about 5 miles travel came to a sudden turn in the road and leave the river – Then our road lay over steep hills and hollows and rough rocky ridges – camped at night on Strawberry Creek. Poor feed and not much water. Cap Tidwell & company came up to us at night. 2 or 3 wagons bound for Oregon passed us after Sundown. News came to us that Bro Frodshams wagon had a wheel broke, he was in the company behind us.

25th Left early, traveled 6 miles to a place where we turned our cattle out – found Several wagons of different companys here, met 2 men here from the valley who had come to meet their friends in our company – there was good feed about a mile from where we camped in a hollow or ravine – Bro Aldred broke the reach of his wagon, as he was driving into camp – The moon shone beautifully a Lovely night for lovers walking or for reflection – at a meeting this evening it was proposed that we part in 10s

26thThe Sun looked beautiful as it rose this morning – Our cattle were driven in to good pasture – We started rather later than usual – tolerable good road until we came to some mounds then we found a road to the left with directions to go that way – we traveled 4 long miles and came to a little valey where there had been good feed – met some brethren here who had come to meet their friends

27thBroke camp about our usual time and after going about 4 or 5 miles came to Pacific Springs or creek <Springs 225 miles from Valley> – Then halted until about 11 oclock A.M. My self and 2 companions started from this place to leave the company and try to get to the valley a few days earlier than our teams – one reason for my going a head was, we were getting short of provisions – I took my over coat and a blanket and some bread and put out – we traveled a long way thinking we might come up to some company and camp with them at night – but it appeared we had taken a new road and did not know where we were, so we camped for the night without water. It was a beautiful moon light night but very cold – no covering but our blankets and the Sky which was a long way off

28thaugust 1852[.] We took a cut accross the country to get into the old road, after 4 hours travel we came to Little Sandy. Breakfasted and then forded the river. Traveled on until we came to Big Sandy and nooned there – Then moved on until evening, when we came to the camp of the 3rd Company and part of the 4th co. We here found some St Louis folkes, I took supper with the Sumption family. Slept under a waggon very cold.

Sunday 29th aug 1852[.] Started about usual time and got to Green River about 9³⁰. Passed more of the 4th company and some St Louis folks[.] Stopped at the river until noon. Then Forded the stream the widest yet and went on to Blacks Fork in the afternoon[.] we kept on until Sundown then rested until the moon came up – we then <kept> on until midnight, when we came to a camp and I got a chance to sleep in a tent

30thWe left our camping place and traveled with the company, because we were to tired to walk any faster – The horses in this company were getting used up and traveled slowly, so we did not make much head way to day. We traveled about 26 miles and camped where there was plenty of Buffalo Chips and sage brush. It rained a good bit in the night and we got wet while we lay under the wagon, we were very cold.

31st Broke camp at 7³⁰ traveled slowly until about 2 p.m. when we reached Fort Bridger. where we saw hundreds of Indians of different tribes who had gathered there to See the agent and get their Supplys. We made but a short halt on account of so many rid skins – some of them wanted to help them selves to any thing they could lay their hands on – but by close watching we prevented them from stealing[.] we kept in company with this horse team, because it traveled a little faster than the ox teams. We kept on until we came to good feed, then stopped until 10 oclock P.M. then moved on a few miles over a level road – Then decended a long tedious hill and camped at the foot near a creek

Wednesday 1st September 1852 This morning Bro Chas Miller left us. We traveled less to day for the horses were tired out and would not go. We camped about 2 miles from Bear River – Frank and my self lay on the cold ground, it froze hard during the night

2nd Sept[.] Started at 6³⁰ A.M. and it took us until 2³⁰ p.m. to get to Bear River[.] We had to unload the wagon and get it up by hand and a little help from an Indian poney. At 5 p.m. we left Westwood with his horse team and walked 15 miles to Cache Cave – Slept at night under a wagon

3rd Sept[.] Breakfasted on potatoes &c with some brethren from the valley, which was a real treat to us. We left the Cave and went on to Weber River and halted a mile west – I was very lame and tired and it was with great difficulty that I could keep up with some ox teams – A friend named Bro Tingey allowed me to ride a short distance in his wagon and allowed us to sleep in his tent, which was a great favor – for we slept nice and warm compared with several nights previous.

4th We traveled on until we came to the top of the Big Mountain about 17 or 18 miles from the City – We stayed with Bro J Balsar and slept under a Buffalo Robe. it was a cold and rainy night[.] I slept well.

Sunday 5th Sept 1852 Started early and went down the mountain – It was very painful for me to walk down, I was so lame – We got into Salt Lake City about noon and found a Bro Westwood in the East part of the City – and dined with him. In the afternoon went to the old Tabernacle to meeting – Heard Prest Heber C. Kimbal[l] speaking to the people[.] I met with some friends and stayed with Bro Saml Worthen.

6th I began to think how I could be of help to Bro Peck and family that I traveled with accross the plains – Sister Worthen (Sams mother) offered me the use of a yoke of good cattle – I then got the hind wheels of a wagon and a pole out of a fence for a tongue – and fixed up a sort of a bed on the hounds and axle – I then procured some potatoes, melons, cucumbers, Flour, dried meat &c – and got ready for a start on Wednesday - 8th of Sept

I started back alone to meet my friends-, I got back as far as the Weber where I met Bro Peck and family, about 40 miles from the City – They were overjoyed to see me, as they did not expect me – That night they had a feast of vegetables, not having tasted any for 3 months

The next morning we put the fresh yoke of cattle on the wagon and the small yoke on the wheels I had taken out. and monday - 13th Sept 1852 we arrived in Salt Lake City – and thus ended the great journey of crossing the plains, being 84 days from the mis[s]ouri River to Salt Lake City –