Ellsworth Handcart Company
On June 9, 1856, the first handcart company of Saints, the Ellsworth company, left Iowa City, Iowa, for the Salt Lake Valley. Two hundred seventy-five people were in the company, and most of them had arrived in the United States from the British Isles only a few months earlier. After traveling five weeks by ship to the United States, they made their way to Iowa City, where they stayed just long enough to build handcarts and complete other preparations for the rest of their journey. When they left Iowa City, they had fifty-two handcarts, three ox-drawn wagons, and one horse-drawn wagon. One tent was provided for each twenty people, with one person called to be the tent president, or captain. The captain’s job was to watch over the members of his tent, to see that they participated in singing and praying, and to ensure that peace prevailed. Enough food was provided to allow each person 12 ounces (340 g) of flour per day, and 3 ounces (86 g) of sugar and 4 ounces (113 g) of bacon per week. Families had to provide whatever additional food they could get. Each person was allowed to take seventeen pounds (7.7 kg) of baggage with them, which included bedding, clothing, cooking utensils, and other personal items.
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As the Ellsworth company crossed the plains, it was closely followed by the McArthur company. The companies passed many homes and settlements that had recently been built as the prairie began to be settled.
One day when six-year-old Arthur Parker of the McArthur company sat down to rest, he was accidentally left behind, and members of the Ellsworth company, traveling close-by, delayed their travel to help search for the boy. When the boy wasn’t found, his father stayed behind to continue the search while the companies moved on. Arthur’s mother gave her husband a bright shawl and told him that if the boy was dead to wrap his body in it. If the boy was alive, he was to use it as a signal to let her know. Arthur was found a few days later in the care of a kind couple, and his father happily waved the red shawl when he and the boy finally came within sight of the handcarts. The companies were headed for Florence, Nebraska, which was where Winter Quarters had once been. There the pioneers would stop to repair their handcarts and supply wagons and to secure provisions for the long and difficult trail over the mountains to the Salt Lake Valley. |
As the Ellsworth Company started its third month of travel, food supplies began to dwindle. During this part of the journey, the pioneers were blessed to come across many buffalo on the Plains. The pioneers replenished their food supplies by shooting a few buffalo, cooking and eating the fresh meat, and then drying some meat for the days ahead. Buffalo chips were used, in the absence of wood, to build fires for warmth and for cooking. The pioneers spent many hours repairing the handcarts that often carried up to 500 pounds of goods over hard roads, through numerous streams and rivers, and up sandy bluffs from Florence, Nebraska, to the Salt Lake Valley. Meanwhile, the Saints already in the valley were organizing to help the approaching companies. Food was sent in wagons to Deer Creek to help the pioneers on the last leg of their journey.
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At last the Ellsworth company’s journey was coming to an end. It would have ended sooner if they had not been slowed down by the ox-drawn wagons that carried their tents and other supplies. When Brigham Young heard that the handcart companies—both the Ellsworth and the McArthur companies—were between Little Mountain and Big Mountain, he organized a group of citizens, brass bands, Church leaders, and others to meet the groups and escort them into the city. When the escort met the handcart companies, the handcarts were halted and Captain Ellsworth introduced the companies to President Young and his counselors. Relatives and friends greeted the newcomers and provided a treat of fresh melons for them to eat.
As the companies and their escort moved on toward the public square in Salt Lake City, the number of welcomers increased. The Deseret News of that day stated, “The line of march was scarcely taken up, before it began to be met by men, women, and children on foot, on horses, and in wagons, thronging out to see and welcome the first hand-cart companies and the numbers rapidly increased until the living tide lined and thronged South Temple street.” President Young spoke briefly to the group and blessed them; then the handcart pioneers pitched their tents, finally at rest in the valley of the Great Salt Lake. |
The Friend
June-September 1989
by Corliss Clayton
Illustrated by Shauna Mooney
June-September 1989
by Corliss Clayton
Illustrated by Shauna Mooney
A Brief Record of the First Handcart Company
Elder Edmund Ellsworth, Captain of the Company
Editor's Note: The First Handcart Company left Iowa City, Iowa on the 9th of June, 1856. There were two hundred and seventy-three soul; who embarked upon the journey. Thirty-three gave up the trip, seven men, heads of families, and the rest being women and children. Twelve persons died out of the entire company during nearly four months of traveling. Two hundred and twenty-eight men, women and children arrived in Salt Lake City on the 26th of September, 1856. The following is from the record of the Company:
June 9th, 1856. At 5 p.m., the carts were in motion proceeding Zionwards. The Saints were in excellent spirits. The camp traveled about four miles and pitched their tents. All well.
June 10th. We remained in camp all day, owing to three yoke of oxen having strayed from the herd. The brethren went out in search of them. The camp was engaged in various duties.
June 11th. Early this morning the strayed cattle were brought back. About 8 a.m. the camp started forward and traveled five miles. Pitched tents. Brothers ROBINSON'S and JONES' carts broke down.
June 12th. The camp started this morning at 6 a.m. Traveled twelve miles. The road was very dusty. Pitched tents about 2 p.m. All in good spirits.
June 13th. The camp started about 8 a.m. Traveled seven miles. Good roads. All went off well. Visited by a good (many) strangers.
June 14th. The camp started this morning at 6 a.m. In good spirits. Traveled seven miles. Pitched tents about 9 a.m. The roads good. The camp in good spirits. Towards evening Elder JAMES FERGUSON came to us from the General Camp. About 6 p.m. WILLIAM LEE, son of JOHN LEE, died of consumption, age 12 years.
June 15th. Today is Sunday. The Saints remained in camp and held two meetings. The morning meeting commenced at half past ten. Singing. A prayer by Elder HEATON. Elder JOSEPH FRANCE addressed the meeting. Afternoon meeting commenced at half past one o'clock. Singing with prayer by Elder LEONARD. Elder EDWARD FROST addressed the meeting. A great many strangers attended the meetings. Good attention by all present. At nine o'clock this morning LORA PRATTER, daughter of RICHARD PRATTER, died of whooping cough, age 3 years. At half past seven the sacrament was administered to the two companies. It was a time or rejoicing for all. Elder FERGUSON addressed the Saints. About 9 p.m. the above named two children were interred at Little Bear Creek.
June 16th. At half past six a.m. the camp moved off in good spirits. Traveled thirteen miles and rested from half past eleven a.m. until four p.m. at Big Bear Creek. The camp moved two miles and camped for the night. About nine we had a storm of rain.
June 17th. At four a.m. the bugle was blown for all to turn out, and at quarter to seven the camp moved off. Traveled ten miles and rested two hours. At twenty past two we pitched our tents. The journey was performed without an accident. No wood, plenty of water. About twenty minutes past three, JOB WELLING, son of JOB WELLING, died, age one year and seven months. Died of canker or inflammation of the bowels.
June 18th. At four a.m. the bugle sounded for all to turn out. At twenty minutes past five the camp rolled out, and traveled ten miles without an accident. Pitched tents at thirty-five past eight a.m. to give the sisters an opportunity of washing the clothes. Today the body of JOB WELLING was interred three feet from the Northeast corner of Mr. WATROUS' Farm, township 80, Range 17, Section 25.
June 19th. The camp rolled out today at quarter to seven a.m. and traveled fifteen miles. The journey was accomplished without an accident. We camped at ten minutes to twelve noon. Plenty of wood and water. Several were baptized by Elder JOHN OAKLEY for their health. Three miles from Greenhustle.
June 20th. The camp moved off at quarter to seven a.m. Traveled sixteen miles. The road was very hilly and rather rough. It was rather a hard day's travel. About a quarter of eight this morning JOHN LLOYD, wife and family, backed out. He was very much given to drinking whiskey along the road. We passed through the city of Newton this morning about nine a.m. We rested by a stream from ten until twelve. Pitched our tents at four p.m. alongside a beautiful stream of water. Plenty of wood. Several were baptized for their health by Elder OAKLEY.
June 21st. At ten minutes to seven the camp moved off and traveled thirteen miles. Rested thirty minutes by the side of a stream, and an hour on the top of a hill. No accident happened to the camp. All was well. At ten minutes to one p.m. we pitched our tents in a grove. Plenty of wood and water. At a quarter to five p.m. JAMES BOWERS died of quick consumption. Age 44, 24th of January, 1856.
June 22nd. Brother JAMES BOWERS was buried near to two other graves a quarter of a mile east of the main line of Fort Des Moines, Section 76, Township 29, Range 72. The camp was called together for meeting at twenty minutes past four p.m. Singing. Prayer by Elder LEONARD. The meeting was addressed by Elders, HEATON, McARTHUR, and ELLSWORTH. Much good instruction was given.
June 23rd. The camp moved out at twenty-five past seven a.m. Traveled ten miles. Pitched tents by 10 a.m. The roads were rather rough in some parts and a little hilly and somewhat dusty. We passed two middling good streams of water, a good camping ground, plenty of wood and water, four miles from Fort Des Moines. Passed a small town this morning seven miles from the Fort.
June 24th. The camp rolled out at thirty past six a.m. Traveled eleven miles. The roads were a little rough and somewhat dusty. The day was exceedingly warm, through which it was rather hard for the handcart boys. Pitched tents at thirty past one p.m. Plenty of wood, water, about a half mile from the camp on the left side of the road. An old mobocrat came and tried to make a fuss with our captain. SIDNEY SHINN, son of JAMES and MARY SHINN Jr., died this morning. Buried thirty yards south of the bridge on Four Mile Creek, on the east bank, under an elm tree.
June 25th. The camp rolled out this morning at twenty-five past six a.m. Traveled nineteen miles. A gentle breeze blew all the way. It was quite refreshing. The roads good; supplied water at six miles and at nine. Pitched tents at forty-five past one p.m. alongside of a river bank. Plenty of wood.
June 26th. The camp moved off this morning at thirty past six a.m. Traveled ten miles. Forded the River Racoon about one mile from the camping ground. Passed the town of Balley. At 12 noon we again forded the Racoon and camped on the west bank. Plenty of wood and water; the road good with the exception of two or three hills. EMMA SHINN, daughter of ROBERT and ELIZA SHINN, died this morning of whooping cough, age two years and eight months.
June 27th. EMMA SHINN was buried this morning twelve feet southeast of a walnut tree on the west bank of the Racoon, nearly opposite the sawmill. At seven a.m. the camp rolled out and traveled ten miles. Good roads. Camped at thirty past ten a.m. in a beautiful valley alongside of a good stream. On the right side of the road on the west bank of the stream there is a beautiful spring of water.
June 28th. The camp moved off at forty past five and traveled sixteen miles. The road was good with the exception of some parts of it being rather hilly. The water rather scarce for about thirteen miles. We got supplied with water at Bear Station. Pitched tents at 1 p.m. Pretty good camping ground; plenty of water; wood rather [s]carce. We had a heavy thunder storm about six p.m. One of the tents was blown down and another rent from top to bottom.
June 29th. We remained in camp all day and rested our bodies. The day was fine. Several strangers were in the camp. At twenty past four p.m. the saints met together for meeting, singing, and prayer by Elder CRANDALL. The meeting was addressed by Elders HARGREAVE, ELLSWORTH, McARTHUR, LEONARD, and CRANDALL on a variety of subjects for the benefit of the Saints.
June 30th. The camp moved out at fifty-five past six a.m. Traveled sixteen miles. We traveled twelve miles without resting. The roads were but middling; part of the way somewhat hilly. No water for twelve miles. Pitched tents at ten past one p.m. All in good spirits. Plenty of wood and water.
July 1st. The camp moved out at ten past seven a.m. and traveled fifteen miles. The road was rather rough. Passed one creek of water. Camped on the side of the creek. Plenty of water. Wood plentiful; about a half a mile from the camp. About half past ten p.m. we had a severe thunder storm. One tent was blown down and another rent.
July 2nd. We remained in camp till fifty past three p.m. owing to Brother McARTHUR'S company having lost a boy by the way. At the above hour we started and traveled ten miles. Rested about half an hour on the bank of the river Nishnabotna. Camped two and one half miles west northwest of an I[n]dian town on the banks of a river. Plenty of wood. A most delightful camping ground.
July 3rd. The camp moved out at forty-five past nine a.m. and traveled fourteen miles. Rested at the side of a creek six miles from where we started. Very little water as we came along. After traveling twelve miles, we turned down a road to the right two miles and camped by the side of a creek with plenty of water. Little wood. About twenty of the camp lost the road, but returned about midnight.
July 4th. The camp moved out at ten past seven a.m. and traveled twenty miles. We passed two creeks the first ten miles, the other ten, no water. The roads good. Camped at fifteen past three p.m. alongside of a good creek of water. Plenty of wood. Fourteen miles from Council Bluffs. All in good spirits.
July 5th. The company remained in camp today to rest and get their clothes washed.
July 6th. Today is Sunday. We remained in camp. Had meeting at twenty past four p.m. Singing and prayer by Brother CRANDALL. The meeting was addressed by Elders GALLOWAY, OAKLEY, ELLSWORTH and McARTHUR. A good many strangers present. Some were attentive, others could not bear the doctrine and walked off grumbling.
July 7th. The camp rolled out at 7 a.m. Traveled fifteen miles. The roads were very hilly. Rested thirty minutes alongside of a good creek. For about eight miles there was little or no water. Passed a few houses about two miles from the camping ground where a good many old Mormons were staying. Pitched tents about 5 p.m.
July 8th. The camp moved out at 7 a.m. and traveled sixteen miles over a very rough road up and down hills. One handcart broke down by the way. The camp rested at Pigeon Creek for two and a half hours. Cooked dinners and got nicely rested. Crossed the Missouri by the steam ferryboat a little below Florence. Got to the camping ground at Florence at fifty past four p.m.
July 9th to 12th. We were busily engaged repairing the handcarts. On the 10th Sister ISABELLA STEVENSON backed out with an old apostate.
July 13th. The saints met in meeting at four p.m. The saints were addressed by Elders McGRAW, ELLSWORTH, and McARTHUR.
July 14th to 16th. Engaged getting our outfit for the plains.
July 17th. The camp rolled out at 11 a.m. Traveled two and one-half miles to Summer Quarters.
July 18th and 19th. We remained in camp till Saturday, finishing the carts and getting the balance of our outfit.
July 20th. The camp rolled out at 6 p.m. and traveled seven miles. Pitched tents half past nine.
July 21st. The camp rolled out at nine a.m. and traveled eighteen miles. Crossed the Elk Horn by the Ferry Boat and camped about five p.m. Before all the tents were pitched we had quite a thunder storm, and continued more or less all the night.
July 22nd. The camp rolled out at twelve p.m. and traveled seventeen miles along a good road. Passed five dead oxen. Camped at half past seven p.m. at Liberty Pole camping ground close to the Platte River.
July 23rd. The camp rolled out at half past seven a.m. and traveled fourteen and one half miles. Camped at Loop Fork at four p.m. An excellent camping place. Good feed for cattle. The roads were rather heavy and the day very warm. Water scarce.
July 24th. The camp rolled out at half past seven a.m. Traveled nine miles. The roads pretty good. Camped at twelve p.m. at Shell Creek.
July 25th. The camp rolled out at seven a.m. and traveled nineteen miles. The roads were pretty good with the exception of about five miles. Rather sandy. Camped at six p.m. two miles from Loop Ferry Fork.
July 26th. At nine a.m. the camp rolled towards the ferry, where we were detained five hours in crossing. At half past five p.m. the camp again moved on about three miles, where we were overtaken by a most terrific storm of thunder and rain. In the open prairie without tents. Two brothers and two sisters were knocked down by lightning. Brother HENRY WALKER from Carlisle was killed. Age fifty-eight. He was a faithful man to his duty. We again moved on for one and one quarter miles and camped for the night. Traveled six miles.
July 27th. Brother H. WALKER was buried this morning four miles west of Loop Fork Ferry on sandy rise, right hand side of the road. At twelve noon the camp rolled out and traveled two and a half miles to a better camping ground, where we remained for the rest of the day. A beef was killed at night for the camp. About eight p.m. a meeting was called. Brothers OAKLEY, FRANCE, and ELLSWORTH addressed the meeting.
July 28th. At fifteen past seven a.m. the camp rolled out and traveled twenty miles. The roads in many parts were heavy. We rested two hours and had dinner. We turned up to the right about half a mile and camped for the night at half past six p.m.
July 29th. At nine a.m. camp rolled out and ascended a bluff to the right of the camping ground. Traveled fifteen miles. The roads in some parts a little sandy. Camped at quarter to three p.m. about four miles from the upper crossing. Plenty of wood and water. Two good springs on the west side of the camp ground. One of them dug out by Brother CARD.
July 30th. The camp rolled out at seven and traveled twentyfive miles. A great part of the road very sandy and heavy for handcarts and wagons. No wood, no water till we camped, and that not very plentiful. Still plenty for camping purposes. Camped at fifteen past six p.m.
July 31st. The camp rolled out at seven a.m. and traveled eighteen miles. The road leading from the camp is a heavy sandy road and continued so for about thirteen miles. It is also very hilly. Camped about fifteen minutes past six p.m. alongside of Prairie Creek. No wood. but plenty of buffalo chips. There is a well about seven miles from where we camped last night on the right hand side of the road.
August 1st. The camp rolled out at eight a.m. Traveled sixteen miles. The road is in good condition. Crossed Prairie Creek twice. The second crossing, the handcarts had to be carried over by the brethren. There was a little difficulty in getting the wagons over, the banks of the creek were so steep. We also crossed Wood River by the means of a good bridge. We came very close to a herd of buffalo. Brother ELLSWORTH went out with his rifle. Wounded two but not sufficient for him to get them. At thirty past six p.m. we camped alongside of Wood River. Plenty of wood and water. A good camping ground.
August 3rd. We remained in camp all day and attended to such duties as we were necessitated to do. Meeting at seven p.m. Brothers OAKLEY, BUTLER, and ELLSWORTH addressed the Saints.
August 4th. At a quarter to eight a.m. the camp rolled out and traveled eighteen miles. Good roads. Camped at quarter to three p.m. near to the Platte.
August 5th. At eight a.m. the camp rolled out and traveled sixteen miles. The road pretty good with the exception of one or two places. Camped about four p.m. Wood rather scarce, still plenty for camping purposes.
August 6th. At nine a.m. the camp rolled out and traveled twelve miles. Roads good. Camped about two p.m. on Buffalo Creek four miles from the crossing of B. Creek. We killed four buffaloes today. The camp got quite a good supply of meat.
August 7th. At fifteen to nine a.m. the camp rolled out, and traveled twenty-five miles. The roads good, with the exception of about two miles which is rather sandy. There is no water after leaving the crossing. Camped at about thirty past eight p.m. No water but by digging for it. No wood. Plenty of chips.
August 8th. At fifteen to nine a.m. the camp rolled out from this place of desolation and traveled thirteen miles without water. The roads good. Camped about thirty past two alongside the Platte. By turning off to the left about one half mile you will find a good camping ground but no wood. There is another camping ground about two miles ahead. By some means Father SANDERS got left behind. The brethren have been out on foot and horse. As yet they have not succeeded in finding him.
August 9th. The camp rolled out at ten past 1 p.m. and traveled thirteen miles. Brother THOMAS FOWLER found Father SANDERS this morning about five miles ahead of the camp. The road for about seven miles is very very heavy, sandy road; hard pulling for handcarts and ox teams. Camped beside the Platte about two miles from Skunk Creek about fifteen eight p.m.
August 10th. About nine a.m. the camp was called together for meeting. Elders ELLSWORTH, FRANCE, and OAKLEY addressed the Saints. A good meeting. The camp rolled out at ten past eleven a.m. Traveled fourteen miles. For two or three miles the road is sandy and bluffy, but they can be greatly avoided by winding them. Camped at Cold Springs camping ground about six p.m. A most excellent place for a camp.
August 11th. The camp rolled out at fifty past seven a.m. and traveled seventeen miles. The roads were pretty good with the exception of some that are sandy, but that can be avoided by turning off a little either to the right or left. Plenty of water every three or four miles. One of our milk cows died near the camping ground. We crossed over a small creek and camped close to the Platte opposite to two or three small islands, where there is wood, but rather difficult to get at. We had two buffaloes brought into camp tonight killed by the brethren appointed for that purpose. We camped at four p.m. All well.
August 12th. We remained at rest today to cut up buffalo to dry for the journey; and repair the handcarts.
August 13th. The camp rolled at thirty past nine a.m. and traveled twelve miles. The roads were rather heavy owing to last night's rain. Camped about five p.m. alongside of Bluff Fork. We forded the river previous to camping.
August 14th. The camp rolled at ten past eight a.m. and traveled eighteen miles. The first twelve miles was nearly all over heavy sandy bluffs. Right from the camp it made heavy pulling. The last six miles the road was pretty good. One of the covered handcarts broke down. Camped about seven p.m. alongside of the Platte.
August 15th. The camp rolled out at one quarter to eight a.m. traveled fourteen miles. For the first six miles the sand was fully as bad, if not worse, than yesterday. We crossed four creeks, took dinner at Goose Creek. For the next eight miles the road was good. We forded Rattle Snake and camped about a half a mile from the old Rattle Snake camping ground. Camped about one quarter past six p.m.
August 16th. The camp moved off at a quarter to eight a.m. and traveled sixteen and three quarter miles. A good part of it heavy sandy traveling. Other parts of the road was good traveling. We crossed small creeks, had dinner on the banks of Camp Creek. Camp about seven p.m. on the east bank of Wolf Creek. Buffalo chips not so plentiful here. Good feed for the oxen.
August 17th. The camp moved out at a quarter to nine a.m. and traveled twelve miles. We crossed over Wolf Creek and ascended the Sandy Bluff. We crossed the bluff to the left instead of going up the old tract. It is easier for handcarts and for ox teams. The road today was very sandy for several miles. Passed over several creeks. Camped at four p.m. on the side of the Platte opposite to Ash Grove. Brother PETER STALLEY died today. He was from Italy.
August 18th. The camp rolled out twenty past seven a.m. and traveled nineteen miles. The road was very good today. Forded Hustle Creek. Passed no other creek during the day. Had dinner alongside of a slough. Passed over a sand ridge. Two dry sloughs on the left hand side of the road about four miles from the Platte. Camped at twenty to seven p.m. on the side of the Platte.
August 19th. The camp rolled out at a quarter to eight a.m. and traveled twenty miles. The road today in parts was very sandy. Especially crossing the cobble hills it was very sandy. We crossed Crab Creek today. Camped about thirty past (?) p.m. on the Platte opposite ancient Bluff ruins.
August 20th. The camp rolled out at thirty past seven a.m. and traveled twenty miles. The road was tolerable good till we came to the last five miles, when it became very sandy in some parts, especially in crossing over sand bluffs. Camped on the side of the Platte forty-five past six p.m.
August 21st. The camp rolled out at thirty past seven a.m. and traveled sixteen and one half miles. The road today was tolerably good. No water for fourteen and one half miles. Camped on the Platte two miles beyond Chimney Rock at four p.m. Buffalo chips rather scarce.
August 22nd. The camp rolled out at twenty past seven a.m. and traveled twenty-one miles. The road today was good. We were detained three hours on the road by a thunder storm. Twelve miles without water. Camped about thirty past seven p.m. on the Platte about half a mile from Spring Creek. Buffalo chips and wood scarce. Poor feed for cattle.
August 23rd. The camp rolled out at five past eight a.m. and traveled fifteen and a half miles before we struck the Platte, where we camped. Wood plentiful on the south side by fording for it. The river from two to three feet deep. About six miles of the road was rather sandy. Camped about two p.m. on the side of the Platte near __________. Killed a buffalo tonight.
August 24th. The camp did not travel any today. We were busy with the handcarts. At six p.m. we had a Sacramental and Saints' meeting. A good time of it.
August 25th. At half past seven a.m. the camp rolled out and traveled nineteen miles. For six or seven miles the road was rather sandy. At a quarter to five p.m. we camped not far from the Platte. Good feed. Plenty of wood.
August 26th. The camp rolled out twenty past seven a.m. and traveled seventeen miles. For about fourteen miles the road was very sandy. Heavy drawing. Forded the Platte opposite to Laramie. Camped at thirty-five past five p.m. on the side of the Platte four miles from Laramie. Good feed, plenty of wood.
August 27th. The camp rolled out at quarter past seven a.m. and traveled twenty-one miles. The roads good with the exception of about four miles, rather rough and rocky. At a quarter to five p.m. we camped at Bitter Cottonwood. Wood and water plenty. Feed scarce.
August 28th. The camp rolled out this morning at thirty past eight a.m. and traveled fifteen miles. Eight miles from Bitter Cottonwood Creek to the Platte, three miles from that to a good spring, and pretty good feed on the right side of the road. Four miles from that to the Horseshoe Creek. Good feed and plenty of wood and water. Camped about thirty past four p.m.
August 29th. The camp rolled out at fifteen past seven a.m. and traveled twenty-five miles. The road was pretty good. Six, teen miles to the Platte where we took dinner. Traveled two miles and forded the Platte. Camped about thirty past six p.m. on the Platte. Plenty of wood; feed pretty fair.
August 30th. The camp rolled out at twenty-five past seven a.m. and traveled nineteen miles. The road pretty fair. Forded the Platte again. Traveled about six miles and camped by the side of a creek. Plenty of wood, water, and feed. We passed two emigrants from California. By them we were informed that five wagons were waiting on us at Deer Creek. Camped at about thirty past six p.m.
August 31st. The camp rolled out at quarter to seven a.m. and traveled twenty-four miles. The roads were very good. Camped at Deer Creek about thirty past five p.m. Found the wagons waiting on us. A most excellent camping ground. Plenty of wood, water, and feed for the cattle. ROBERT STODDARD died of consumption, age 51. Buried about four hundred yards from the left hand side of the road.
September 1st. We remained at Deer Creek today to rest ourselves and the cattle. Busy repairing the handcarts. Killed a cow. Had a good meeting at night. Addressed by Brother ELLSWORTH, and the brethren from the Valley. We spent a first rate day of it.
September 2nd. The camp rolled out at a quarter to seven a.m. and traveled twenty miles. The road tolerably good, but very dusty owing to a heavy wind. Camped beside the Platte. Plenty of wood. Feed scarce. Crossed a creek eleven miles from where we started. WALTER SANDERS died last night. Buried this morning about three hundred yards from the south side of the road. Age sixty-five.
September 3rd. The camp rolled this morning at thirty past eight a.m. and traveled eleven miles. It was very heavy pulling owing to the dust and a heavy wind. Crossed the Platte a mile and a half below the upper crossings. A good place to ford. Camped beside of the Platte at thirty past four p.m. Plenty of wood. Feed middling.
September 4th. The camp rolled out this morning and traveled twenty-six miles. The roads were very good for traveling. Had dinner by the side of Mineral Spring Creek. Camped at Little Stream Creek at thirty past five p.m. About a half an hour after getting to camp it got very cold and rained for several hours so that we could not light a fire.
September 5th. We remained in camp today owing to the inclement state of the weather. It rained and snowed alternately for the whole of the day so that we could not cook hardly anything.
September 6th. About four a.m. this morning the weather became more settled, but we found to our sorrow that twenty-four head of our cattle were missing, owing to the negligence of ROBERT SHINN and JAMES SHINN Jr., who were on guard. We had to remain in camp again today as the cattle were not found till about three p.m.
September 7th. The camp rolled out this morning at thirty past seven a.m. and traveled twenty-two miles. The road was good for the first fourteen miles. Camped to have dinner beside a most beautiful creek of water. For the next eight miles the road is very sandy and heavy. Camped at thirty past six p.m. by side of Sweet water, two miles from the crossing. A good camping ground. Good feed for the cattle. GEORGE NEAPPRIS died this evening. Age 24. Emigrated from Cardiff in Dan Jones' company.
September 8th. This morning GEORGE NEAPPRIS was buried on a sand ridge directly east of three rocky mounds. Two and a half miles from the crossing on the bend on the north side of the river. Crossed Sweetwater by a good bridge. The roads were in many parts rather rough. Had dinner beside an old trading post close by the Devil's Gate. Camped beside Sweetwater at thirty past five p.m. not far from a company of apostates.
September 9th. The camp rolled at thirty past seven a.m. and traveled sixteen miles. The roads continued rather rough with a heavy headwind. Camped at five p.m. beside Sweetwater. An excellent camping ground. Killed a cow.
September 10th. The camp rolled out at forty past seven a.m. and traveled eighteen miles. The roads tolerably good to Sweet water crossing. After that it was sandy for seven miles. Camped at six p.m. on Sweetwater. A very indifferent camping ground. Poor feed.
September 11th. The camp rolled out at forty past seven a.m. and traveled nineteen miles. The first part of the journey the roads pretty good. No water for twelve miles. You will then come to a good stream of water and good feed. Take the left hand road. Traveled eight miles to a creek. A poor camping ground. Middling feed. Camped at six p.m. About 11 p.m. Brother McARTHUR'S company came up. They had traveled nearly night and day to overtake us.
September 12th. The camp rolled out at forty-five past seven a.m. and traveled twelve miles. The greatest part of the road very hilly and rough. A good spring of water about six miles from where we started this morning. Camped at forty-five past one p.m. Good camping ground. Feed pretty fair. Plenty of good spring water, about two hundred yards from the road, right side.
September 13th. The camp rolled out at forty past seven a.m. and traveled twenty-eight miles. The road was very good. We took the cut off six miles from where we started. There is a good creek of water and plenty good feed two hundred yards from where the road crosses the creek. Nine miles farther on there is another good creek and feed. It is not far from the head of Sweetwater. Camped at nine p.m. at the Pacific Springs. Here we came up with the main body of Captain BANK'S company. They had ten days clear start of us from Florence. MARY MAYO died of diarrhea. Age 65. Buried close to the big mountain left hand side of the road.
September 14th. The camp rolled out at nine a.m. and traveled three miles where there was plenty of feed for the cattle.
September 15th. The camp rolled out at seven a.m. and traveled twenty-six miles. A creek of water twelve miles from where we started. Also feed. Here we rested two hours. Sixteen miles we camped at Little Sandy. We got plenty of water by digging for it. Plenty of wood and pretty good feed. Camped at nine p.m. Very good roads.
September 16th. The camp rolled out at thirty past eight a.m. and traveled twenty-three miles. Good roads. Crossed a splendid creek of water five miles from Little Sandy. Camped on the banks of Big Sandy at seven p.m. Plenty of wood on the opposite side of the river. Poor feed for cattle.
September 17th. JAMES BIRCH, age 28, died this morning of diarrhea. Buried on the top of sand ridge east of Sandy. The camp rolled at eight and traveled eleven miles. Rested four hours by the side of Green River. Forded the river about four p.m. and camped about six p.m. Good feed and camping ground.
September 18th. At eight a.m. the camp rolled out and traveled twenty-two miles. Good roads. Camped on Ham's Fork at seven p.m. Good feed for cattle; and wood.
September 19th. The camp rolled at thirty past nine a.m. and traveled twenty-three miles. The roads good. A poor place for feed. Camped at nine p.m.
September 20th. The camp rolled out at forty-five past six a.m. and traveled nine miles to Bridger. The road rather rough and rocky. Camped at Bridger for the day. At fifteen past ten a.m. [k]illed a first rate fat ox. Shod several of the oxen.
September 21st. At seven a.m. the camp rolled and traveled twenty-two miles. The roads were good. Crossed several creeks. Passed a sulphur and soda spring. Camped at six p.m. Plenty of wood and feed, but no water.
September 22nd. The camp rolled out at thirty past five a.m. and traveled twenty-three miles. Had breakfast six miles from where we started. About three p.m. met with BRIGHAM'S and HEBER'S sons. They were glad to see us. About half past five we were taken in a thunder storm and traveled an hour and a half in it. Camped at six p.m. Plenty of water and feed. Wood rather scarce. The wagons with the tents did not arrive till twelve midnight. We were cold and wet. Still we felt all right.
September 23rd. The camp rolled out at twelve p.m. and traveled eighteen miles. The roads were pretty good. We forded the Weber about one p.m. and had dinner on the Weber banks. Camped about thirty past six p.m. Wood, water, feed plenty. We were visited by a few Indians.
September 24th. The camp rolled out at seven a.m. and traveled twenty miles. The roads were rather rough and rugged. Camped about thirty past six p.m. Wood, water, feed, plenty.
September 25th. The camp rolled out at seven a.m. and traveled twenty miles. Crossed canyon eleven times. The roads a little rough. Had dinner at the bottom of Big Mountain. Crossed Big Mountain in two hours and fifty-five minutes. Camped at the foot of the Little Mountain at six p.m.
September 26th. The brethren from the city sent us a wagon with provisions as we were rather short. At thirty past ten a.m. the camp rolled and traveled thirteen miles. About eight miles from the city we were met with Governor YOUNG and his counselors the Nauvoo brass band, the Lancers, and a great many others. We were first rate received in the city. Provisions of all kinds came rolling in to us in camp. The brethren of the city manifested great interest towards us as a company, which caused our hearts to rejoice and be glad.
EDMUND ELLSWORTH, Captain
A. GALLOWAY, Secretary
June 9th, 1856. At 5 p.m., the carts were in motion proceeding Zionwards. The Saints were in excellent spirits. The camp traveled about four miles and pitched their tents. All well.
June 10th. We remained in camp all day, owing to three yoke of oxen having strayed from the herd. The brethren went out in search of them. The camp was engaged in various duties.
June 11th. Early this morning the strayed cattle were brought back. About 8 a.m. the camp started forward and traveled five miles. Pitched tents. Brothers ROBINSON'S and JONES' carts broke down.
June 12th. The camp started this morning at 6 a.m. Traveled twelve miles. The road was very dusty. Pitched tents about 2 p.m. All in good spirits.
June 13th. The camp started about 8 a.m. Traveled seven miles. Good roads. All went off well. Visited by a good (many) strangers.
June 14th. The camp started this morning at 6 a.m. In good spirits. Traveled seven miles. Pitched tents about 9 a.m. The roads good. The camp in good spirits. Towards evening Elder JAMES FERGUSON came to us from the General Camp. About 6 p.m. WILLIAM LEE, son of JOHN LEE, died of consumption, age 12 years.
June 15th. Today is Sunday. The Saints remained in camp and held two meetings. The morning meeting commenced at half past ten. Singing. A prayer by Elder HEATON. Elder JOSEPH FRANCE addressed the meeting. Afternoon meeting commenced at half past one o'clock. Singing with prayer by Elder LEONARD. Elder EDWARD FROST addressed the meeting. A great many strangers attended the meetings. Good attention by all present. At nine o'clock this morning LORA PRATTER, daughter of RICHARD PRATTER, died of whooping cough, age 3 years. At half past seven the sacrament was administered to the two companies. It was a time or rejoicing for all. Elder FERGUSON addressed the Saints. About 9 p.m. the above named two children were interred at Little Bear Creek.
June 16th. At half past six a.m. the camp moved off in good spirits. Traveled thirteen miles and rested from half past eleven a.m. until four p.m. at Big Bear Creek. The camp moved two miles and camped for the night. About nine we had a storm of rain.
June 17th. At four a.m. the bugle was blown for all to turn out, and at quarter to seven the camp moved off. Traveled ten miles and rested two hours. At twenty past two we pitched our tents. The journey was performed without an accident. No wood, plenty of water. About twenty minutes past three, JOB WELLING, son of JOB WELLING, died, age one year and seven months. Died of canker or inflammation of the bowels.
June 18th. At four a.m. the bugle sounded for all to turn out. At twenty minutes past five the camp rolled out, and traveled ten miles without an accident. Pitched tents at thirty-five past eight a.m. to give the sisters an opportunity of washing the clothes. Today the body of JOB WELLING was interred three feet from the Northeast corner of Mr. WATROUS' Farm, township 80, Range 17, Section 25.
June 19th. The camp rolled out today at quarter to seven a.m. and traveled fifteen miles. The journey was accomplished without an accident. We camped at ten minutes to twelve noon. Plenty of wood and water. Several were baptized by Elder JOHN OAKLEY for their health. Three miles from Greenhustle.
June 20th. The camp moved off at quarter to seven a.m. Traveled sixteen miles. The road was very hilly and rather rough. It was rather a hard day's travel. About a quarter of eight this morning JOHN LLOYD, wife and family, backed out. He was very much given to drinking whiskey along the road. We passed through the city of Newton this morning about nine a.m. We rested by a stream from ten until twelve. Pitched our tents at four p.m. alongside a beautiful stream of water. Plenty of wood. Several were baptized for their health by Elder OAKLEY.
June 21st. At ten minutes to seven the camp moved off and traveled thirteen miles. Rested thirty minutes by the side of a stream, and an hour on the top of a hill. No accident happened to the camp. All was well. At ten minutes to one p.m. we pitched our tents in a grove. Plenty of wood and water. At a quarter to five p.m. JAMES BOWERS died of quick consumption. Age 44, 24th of January, 1856.
June 22nd. Brother JAMES BOWERS was buried near to two other graves a quarter of a mile east of the main line of Fort Des Moines, Section 76, Township 29, Range 72. The camp was called together for meeting at twenty minutes past four p.m. Singing. Prayer by Elder LEONARD. The meeting was addressed by Elders, HEATON, McARTHUR, and ELLSWORTH. Much good instruction was given.
June 23rd. The camp moved out at twenty-five past seven a.m. Traveled ten miles. Pitched tents by 10 a.m. The roads were rather rough in some parts and a little hilly and somewhat dusty. We passed two middling good streams of water, a good camping ground, plenty of wood and water, four miles from Fort Des Moines. Passed a small town this morning seven miles from the Fort.
June 24th. The camp rolled out at thirty past six a.m. Traveled eleven miles. The roads were a little rough and somewhat dusty. The day was exceedingly warm, through which it was rather hard for the handcart boys. Pitched tents at thirty past one p.m. Plenty of wood, water, about a half mile from the camp on the left side of the road. An old mobocrat came and tried to make a fuss with our captain. SIDNEY SHINN, son of JAMES and MARY SHINN Jr., died this morning. Buried thirty yards south of the bridge on Four Mile Creek, on the east bank, under an elm tree.
June 25th. The camp rolled out this morning at twenty-five past six a.m. Traveled nineteen miles. A gentle breeze blew all the way. It was quite refreshing. The roads good; supplied water at six miles and at nine. Pitched tents at forty-five past one p.m. alongside of a river bank. Plenty of wood.
June 26th. The camp moved off this morning at thirty past six a.m. Traveled ten miles. Forded the River Racoon about one mile from the camping ground. Passed the town of Balley. At 12 noon we again forded the Racoon and camped on the west bank. Plenty of wood and water; the road good with the exception of two or three hills. EMMA SHINN, daughter of ROBERT and ELIZA SHINN, died this morning of whooping cough, age two years and eight months.
June 27th. EMMA SHINN was buried this morning twelve feet southeast of a walnut tree on the west bank of the Racoon, nearly opposite the sawmill. At seven a.m. the camp rolled out and traveled ten miles. Good roads. Camped at thirty past ten a.m. in a beautiful valley alongside of a good stream. On the right side of the road on the west bank of the stream there is a beautiful spring of water.
June 28th. The camp moved off at forty past five and traveled sixteen miles. The road was good with the exception of some parts of it being rather hilly. The water rather scarce for about thirteen miles. We got supplied with water at Bear Station. Pitched tents at 1 p.m. Pretty good camping ground; plenty of water; wood rather [s]carce. We had a heavy thunder storm about six p.m. One of the tents was blown down and another rent from top to bottom.
June 29th. We remained in camp all day and rested our bodies. The day was fine. Several strangers were in the camp. At twenty past four p.m. the saints met together for meeting, singing, and prayer by Elder CRANDALL. The meeting was addressed by Elders HARGREAVE, ELLSWORTH, McARTHUR, LEONARD, and CRANDALL on a variety of subjects for the benefit of the Saints.
June 30th. The camp moved out at fifty-five past six a.m. Traveled sixteen miles. We traveled twelve miles without resting. The roads were but middling; part of the way somewhat hilly. No water for twelve miles. Pitched tents at ten past one p.m. All in good spirits. Plenty of wood and water.
July 1st. The camp moved out at ten past seven a.m. and traveled fifteen miles. The road was rather rough. Passed one creek of water. Camped on the side of the creek. Plenty of water. Wood plentiful; about a half a mile from the camp. About half past ten p.m. we had a severe thunder storm. One tent was blown down and another rent.
July 2nd. We remained in camp till fifty past three p.m. owing to Brother McARTHUR'S company having lost a boy by the way. At the above hour we started and traveled ten miles. Rested about half an hour on the bank of the river Nishnabotna. Camped two and one half miles west northwest of an I[n]dian town on the banks of a river. Plenty of wood. A most delightful camping ground.
July 3rd. The camp moved out at forty-five past nine a.m. and traveled fourteen miles. Rested at the side of a creek six miles from where we started. Very little water as we came along. After traveling twelve miles, we turned down a road to the right two miles and camped by the side of a creek with plenty of water. Little wood. About twenty of the camp lost the road, but returned about midnight.
July 4th. The camp moved out at ten past seven a.m. and traveled twenty miles. We passed two creeks the first ten miles, the other ten, no water. The roads good. Camped at fifteen past three p.m. alongside of a good creek of water. Plenty of wood. Fourteen miles from Council Bluffs. All in good spirits.
July 5th. The company remained in camp today to rest and get their clothes washed.
July 6th. Today is Sunday. We remained in camp. Had meeting at twenty past four p.m. Singing and prayer by Brother CRANDALL. The meeting was addressed by Elders GALLOWAY, OAKLEY, ELLSWORTH and McARTHUR. A good many strangers present. Some were attentive, others could not bear the doctrine and walked off grumbling.
July 7th. The camp rolled out at 7 a.m. Traveled fifteen miles. The roads were very hilly. Rested thirty minutes alongside of a good creek. For about eight miles there was little or no water. Passed a few houses about two miles from the camping ground where a good many old Mormons were staying. Pitched tents about 5 p.m.
July 8th. The camp moved out at 7 a.m. and traveled sixteen miles over a very rough road up and down hills. One handcart broke down by the way. The camp rested at Pigeon Creek for two and a half hours. Cooked dinners and got nicely rested. Crossed the Missouri by the steam ferryboat a little below Florence. Got to the camping ground at Florence at fifty past four p.m.
July 9th to 12th. We were busily engaged repairing the handcarts. On the 10th Sister ISABELLA STEVENSON backed out with an old apostate.
July 13th. The saints met in meeting at four p.m. The saints were addressed by Elders McGRAW, ELLSWORTH, and McARTHUR.
July 14th to 16th. Engaged getting our outfit for the plains.
July 17th. The camp rolled out at 11 a.m. Traveled two and one-half miles to Summer Quarters.
July 18th and 19th. We remained in camp till Saturday, finishing the carts and getting the balance of our outfit.
July 20th. The camp rolled out at 6 p.m. and traveled seven miles. Pitched tents half past nine.
July 21st. The camp rolled out at nine a.m. and traveled eighteen miles. Crossed the Elk Horn by the Ferry Boat and camped about five p.m. Before all the tents were pitched we had quite a thunder storm, and continued more or less all the night.
July 22nd. The camp rolled out at twelve p.m. and traveled seventeen miles along a good road. Passed five dead oxen. Camped at half past seven p.m. at Liberty Pole camping ground close to the Platte River.
July 23rd. The camp rolled out at half past seven a.m. and traveled fourteen and one half miles. Camped at Loop Fork at four p.m. An excellent camping place. Good feed for cattle. The roads were rather heavy and the day very warm. Water scarce.
July 24th. The camp rolled out at half past seven a.m. Traveled nine miles. The roads pretty good. Camped at twelve p.m. at Shell Creek.
July 25th. The camp rolled out at seven a.m. and traveled nineteen miles. The roads were pretty good with the exception of about five miles. Rather sandy. Camped at six p.m. two miles from Loop Ferry Fork.
July 26th. At nine a.m. the camp rolled towards the ferry, where we were detained five hours in crossing. At half past five p.m. the camp again moved on about three miles, where we were overtaken by a most terrific storm of thunder and rain. In the open prairie without tents. Two brothers and two sisters were knocked down by lightning. Brother HENRY WALKER from Carlisle was killed. Age fifty-eight. He was a faithful man to his duty. We again moved on for one and one quarter miles and camped for the night. Traveled six miles.
July 27th. Brother H. WALKER was buried this morning four miles west of Loop Fork Ferry on sandy rise, right hand side of the road. At twelve noon the camp rolled out and traveled two and a half miles to a better camping ground, where we remained for the rest of the day. A beef was killed at night for the camp. About eight p.m. a meeting was called. Brothers OAKLEY, FRANCE, and ELLSWORTH addressed the meeting.
July 28th. At fifteen past seven a.m. the camp rolled out and traveled twenty miles. The roads in many parts were heavy. We rested two hours and had dinner. We turned up to the right about half a mile and camped for the night at half past six p.m.
July 29th. At nine a.m. camp rolled out and ascended a bluff to the right of the camping ground. Traveled fifteen miles. The roads in some parts a little sandy. Camped at quarter to three p.m. about four miles from the upper crossing. Plenty of wood and water. Two good springs on the west side of the camp ground. One of them dug out by Brother CARD.
July 30th. The camp rolled out at seven and traveled twentyfive miles. A great part of the road very sandy and heavy for handcarts and wagons. No wood, no water till we camped, and that not very plentiful. Still plenty for camping purposes. Camped at fifteen past six p.m.
July 31st. The camp rolled out at seven a.m. and traveled eighteen miles. The road leading from the camp is a heavy sandy road and continued so for about thirteen miles. It is also very hilly. Camped about fifteen minutes past six p.m. alongside of Prairie Creek. No wood. but plenty of buffalo chips. There is a well about seven miles from where we camped last night on the right hand side of the road.
August 1st. The camp rolled out at eight a.m. Traveled sixteen miles. The road is in good condition. Crossed Prairie Creek twice. The second crossing, the handcarts had to be carried over by the brethren. There was a little difficulty in getting the wagons over, the banks of the creek were so steep. We also crossed Wood River by the means of a good bridge. We came very close to a herd of buffalo. Brother ELLSWORTH went out with his rifle. Wounded two but not sufficient for him to get them. At thirty past six p.m. we camped alongside of Wood River. Plenty of wood and water. A good camping ground.
August 3rd. We remained in camp all day and attended to such duties as we were necessitated to do. Meeting at seven p.m. Brothers OAKLEY, BUTLER, and ELLSWORTH addressed the Saints.
August 4th. At a quarter to eight a.m. the camp rolled out and traveled eighteen miles. Good roads. Camped at quarter to three p.m. near to the Platte.
August 5th. At eight a.m. the camp rolled out and traveled sixteen miles. The road pretty good with the exception of one or two places. Camped about four p.m. Wood rather scarce, still plenty for camping purposes.
August 6th. At nine a.m. the camp rolled out and traveled twelve miles. Roads good. Camped about two p.m. on Buffalo Creek four miles from the crossing of B. Creek. We killed four buffaloes today. The camp got quite a good supply of meat.
August 7th. At fifteen to nine a.m. the camp rolled out, and traveled twenty-five miles. The roads good, with the exception of about two miles which is rather sandy. There is no water after leaving the crossing. Camped at about thirty past eight p.m. No water but by digging for it. No wood. Plenty of chips.
August 8th. At fifteen to nine a.m. the camp rolled out from this place of desolation and traveled thirteen miles without water. The roads good. Camped about thirty past two alongside the Platte. By turning off to the left about one half mile you will find a good camping ground but no wood. There is another camping ground about two miles ahead. By some means Father SANDERS got left behind. The brethren have been out on foot and horse. As yet they have not succeeded in finding him.
August 9th. The camp rolled out at ten past 1 p.m. and traveled thirteen miles. Brother THOMAS FOWLER found Father SANDERS this morning about five miles ahead of the camp. The road for about seven miles is very very heavy, sandy road; hard pulling for handcarts and ox teams. Camped beside the Platte about two miles from Skunk Creek about fifteen eight p.m.
August 10th. About nine a.m. the camp was called together for meeting. Elders ELLSWORTH, FRANCE, and OAKLEY addressed the Saints. A good meeting. The camp rolled out at ten past eleven a.m. Traveled fourteen miles. For two or three miles the road is sandy and bluffy, but they can be greatly avoided by winding them. Camped at Cold Springs camping ground about six p.m. A most excellent place for a camp.
August 11th. The camp rolled out at fifty past seven a.m. and traveled seventeen miles. The roads were pretty good with the exception of some that are sandy, but that can be avoided by turning off a little either to the right or left. Plenty of water every three or four miles. One of our milk cows died near the camping ground. We crossed over a small creek and camped close to the Platte opposite to two or three small islands, where there is wood, but rather difficult to get at. We had two buffaloes brought into camp tonight killed by the brethren appointed for that purpose. We camped at four p.m. All well.
August 12th. We remained at rest today to cut up buffalo to dry for the journey; and repair the handcarts.
August 13th. The camp rolled at thirty past nine a.m. and traveled twelve miles. The roads were rather heavy owing to last night's rain. Camped about five p.m. alongside of Bluff Fork. We forded the river previous to camping.
August 14th. The camp rolled at ten past eight a.m. and traveled eighteen miles. The first twelve miles was nearly all over heavy sandy bluffs. Right from the camp it made heavy pulling. The last six miles the road was pretty good. One of the covered handcarts broke down. Camped about seven p.m. alongside of the Platte.
August 15th. The camp rolled out at one quarter to eight a.m. traveled fourteen miles. For the first six miles the sand was fully as bad, if not worse, than yesterday. We crossed four creeks, took dinner at Goose Creek. For the next eight miles the road was good. We forded Rattle Snake and camped about a half a mile from the old Rattle Snake camping ground. Camped about one quarter past six p.m.
August 16th. The camp moved off at a quarter to eight a.m. and traveled sixteen and three quarter miles. A good part of it heavy sandy traveling. Other parts of the road was good traveling. We crossed small creeks, had dinner on the banks of Camp Creek. Camp about seven p.m. on the east bank of Wolf Creek. Buffalo chips not so plentiful here. Good feed for the oxen.
August 17th. The camp moved out at a quarter to nine a.m. and traveled twelve miles. We crossed over Wolf Creek and ascended the Sandy Bluff. We crossed the bluff to the left instead of going up the old tract. It is easier for handcarts and for ox teams. The road today was very sandy for several miles. Passed over several creeks. Camped at four p.m. on the side of the Platte opposite to Ash Grove. Brother PETER STALLEY died today. He was from Italy.
August 18th. The camp rolled out twenty past seven a.m. and traveled nineteen miles. The road was very good today. Forded Hustle Creek. Passed no other creek during the day. Had dinner alongside of a slough. Passed over a sand ridge. Two dry sloughs on the left hand side of the road about four miles from the Platte. Camped at twenty to seven p.m. on the side of the Platte.
August 19th. The camp rolled out at a quarter to eight a.m. and traveled twenty miles. The road today in parts was very sandy. Especially crossing the cobble hills it was very sandy. We crossed Crab Creek today. Camped about thirty past (?) p.m. on the Platte opposite ancient Bluff ruins.
August 20th. The camp rolled out at thirty past seven a.m. and traveled twenty miles. The road was tolerable good till we came to the last five miles, when it became very sandy in some parts, especially in crossing over sand bluffs. Camped on the side of the Platte forty-five past six p.m.
August 21st. The camp rolled out at thirty past seven a.m. and traveled sixteen and one half miles. The road today was tolerably good. No water for fourteen and one half miles. Camped on the Platte two miles beyond Chimney Rock at four p.m. Buffalo chips rather scarce.
August 22nd. The camp rolled out at twenty past seven a.m. and traveled twenty-one miles. The road today was good. We were detained three hours on the road by a thunder storm. Twelve miles without water. Camped about thirty past seven p.m. on the Platte about half a mile from Spring Creek. Buffalo chips and wood scarce. Poor feed for cattle.
August 23rd. The camp rolled out at five past eight a.m. and traveled fifteen and a half miles before we struck the Platte, where we camped. Wood plentiful on the south side by fording for it. The river from two to three feet deep. About six miles of the road was rather sandy. Camped about two p.m. on the side of the Platte near __________. Killed a buffalo tonight.
August 24th. The camp did not travel any today. We were busy with the handcarts. At six p.m. we had a Sacramental and Saints' meeting. A good time of it.
August 25th. At half past seven a.m. the camp rolled out and traveled nineteen miles. For six or seven miles the road was rather sandy. At a quarter to five p.m. we camped not far from the Platte. Good feed. Plenty of wood.
August 26th. The camp rolled out twenty past seven a.m. and traveled seventeen miles. For about fourteen miles the road was very sandy. Heavy drawing. Forded the Platte opposite to Laramie. Camped at thirty-five past five p.m. on the side of the Platte four miles from Laramie. Good feed, plenty of wood.
August 27th. The camp rolled out at quarter past seven a.m. and traveled twenty-one miles. The roads good with the exception of about four miles, rather rough and rocky. At a quarter to five p.m. we camped at Bitter Cottonwood. Wood and water plenty. Feed scarce.
August 28th. The camp rolled out this morning at thirty past eight a.m. and traveled fifteen miles. Eight miles from Bitter Cottonwood Creek to the Platte, three miles from that to a good spring, and pretty good feed on the right side of the road. Four miles from that to the Horseshoe Creek. Good feed and plenty of wood and water. Camped about thirty past four p.m.
August 29th. The camp rolled out at fifteen past seven a.m. and traveled twenty-five miles. The road was pretty good. Six, teen miles to the Platte where we took dinner. Traveled two miles and forded the Platte. Camped about thirty past six p.m. on the Platte. Plenty of wood; feed pretty fair.
August 30th. The camp rolled out at twenty-five past seven a.m. and traveled nineteen miles. The road pretty fair. Forded the Platte again. Traveled about six miles and camped by the side of a creek. Plenty of wood, water, and feed. We passed two emigrants from California. By them we were informed that five wagons were waiting on us at Deer Creek. Camped at about thirty past six p.m.
August 31st. The camp rolled out at quarter to seven a.m. and traveled twenty-four miles. The roads were very good. Camped at Deer Creek about thirty past five p.m. Found the wagons waiting on us. A most excellent camping ground. Plenty of wood, water, and feed for the cattle. ROBERT STODDARD died of consumption, age 51. Buried about four hundred yards from the left hand side of the road.
September 1st. We remained at Deer Creek today to rest ourselves and the cattle. Busy repairing the handcarts. Killed a cow. Had a good meeting at night. Addressed by Brother ELLSWORTH, and the brethren from the Valley. We spent a first rate day of it.
September 2nd. The camp rolled out at a quarter to seven a.m. and traveled twenty miles. The road tolerably good, but very dusty owing to a heavy wind. Camped beside the Platte. Plenty of wood. Feed scarce. Crossed a creek eleven miles from where we started. WALTER SANDERS died last night. Buried this morning about three hundred yards from the south side of the road. Age sixty-five.
September 3rd. The camp rolled this morning at thirty past eight a.m. and traveled eleven miles. It was very heavy pulling owing to the dust and a heavy wind. Crossed the Platte a mile and a half below the upper crossings. A good place to ford. Camped beside of the Platte at thirty past four p.m. Plenty of wood. Feed middling.
September 4th. The camp rolled out this morning and traveled twenty-six miles. The roads were very good for traveling. Had dinner by the side of Mineral Spring Creek. Camped at Little Stream Creek at thirty past five p.m. About a half an hour after getting to camp it got very cold and rained for several hours so that we could not light a fire.
September 5th. We remained in camp today owing to the inclement state of the weather. It rained and snowed alternately for the whole of the day so that we could not cook hardly anything.
September 6th. About four a.m. this morning the weather became more settled, but we found to our sorrow that twenty-four head of our cattle were missing, owing to the negligence of ROBERT SHINN and JAMES SHINN Jr., who were on guard. We had to remain in camp again today as the cattle were not found till about three p.m.
September 7th. The camp rolled out this morning at thirty past seven a.m. and traveled twenty-two miles. The road was good for the first fourteen miles. Camped to have dinner beside a most beautiful creek of water. For the next eight miles the road is very sandy and heavy. Camped at thirty past six p.m. by side of Sweet water, two miles from the crossing. A good camping ground. Good feed for the cattle. GEORGE NEAPPRIS died this evening. Age 24. Emigrated from Cardiff in Dan Jones' company.
September 8th. This morning GEORGE NEAPPRIS was buried on a sand ridge directly east of three rocky mounds. Two and a half miles from the crossing on the bend on the north side of the river. Crossed Sweetwater by a good bridge. The roads were in many parts rather rough. Had dinner beside an old trading post close by the Devil's Gate. Camped beside Sweetwater at thirty past five p.m. not far from a company of apostates.
September 9th. The camp rolled at thirty past seven a.m. and traveled sixteen miles. The roads continued rather rough with a heavy headwind. Camped at five p.m. beside Sweetwater. An excellent camping ground. Killed a cow.
September 10th. The camp rolled out at forty past seven a.m. and traveled eighteen miles. The roads tolerably good to Sweet water crossing. After that it was sandy for seven miles. Camped at six p.m. on Sweetwater. A very indifferent camping ground. Poor feed.
September 11th. The camp rolled out at forty past seven a.m. and traveled nineteen miles. The first part of the journey the roads pretty good. No water for twelve miles. You will then come to a good stream of water and good feed. Take the left hand road. Traveled eight miles to a creek. A poor camping ground. Middling feed. Camped at six p.m. About 11 p.m. Brother McARTHUR'S company came up. They had traveled nearly night and day to overtake us.
September 12th. The camp rolled out at forty-five past seven a.m. and traveled twelve miles. The greatest part of the road very hilly and rough. A good spring of water about six miles from where we started this morning. Camped at forty-five past one p.m. Good camping ground. Feed pretty fair. Plenty of good spring water, about two hundred yards from the road, right side.
September 13th. The camp rolled out at forty past seven a.m. and traveled twenty-eight miles. The road was very good. We took the cut off six miles from where we started. There is a good creek of water and plenty good feed two hundred yards from where the road crosses the creek. Nine miles farther on there is another good creek and feed. It is not far from the head of Sweetwater. Camped at nine p.m. at the Pacific Springs. Here we came up with the main body of Captain BANK'S company. They had ten days clear start of us from Florence. MARY MAYO died of diarrhea. Age 65. Buried close to the big mountain left hand side of the road.
September 14th. The camp rolled out at nine a.m. and traveled three miles where there was plenty of feed for the cattle.
September 15th. The camp rolled out at seven a.m. and traveled twenty-six miles. A creek of water twelve miles from where we started. Also feed. Here we rested two hours. Sixteen miles we camped at Little Sandy. We got plenty of water by digging for it. Plenty of wood and pretty good feed. Camped at nine p.m. Very good roads.
September 16th. The camp rolled out at thirty past eight a.m. and traveled twenty-three miles. Good roads. Crossed a splendid creek of water five miles from Little Sandy. Camped on the banks of Big Sandy at seven p.m. Plenty of wood on the opposite side of the river. Poor feed for cattle.
September 17th. JAMES BIRCH, age 28, died this morning of diarrhea. Buried on the top of sand ridge east of Sandy. The camp rolled at eight and traveled eleven miles. Rested four hours by the side of Green River. Forded the river about four p.m. and camped about six p.m. Good feed and camping ground.
September 18th. At eight a.m. the camp rolled out and traveled twenty-two miles. Good roads. Camped on Ham's Fork at seven p.m. Good feed for cattle; and wood.
September 19th. The camp rolled at thirty past nine a.m. and traveled twenty-three miles. The roads good. A poor place for feed. Camped at nine p.m.
September 20th. The camp rolled out at forty-five past six a.m. and traveled nine miles to Bridger. The road rather rough and rocky. Camped at Bridger for the day. At fifteen past ten a.m. [k]illed a first rate fat ox. Shod several of the oxen.
September 21st. At seven a.m. the camp rolled and traveled twenty-two miles. The roads were good. Crossed several creeks. Passed a sulphur and soda spring. Camped at six p.m. Plenty of wood and feed, but no water.
September 22nd. The camp rolled out at thirty past five a.m. and traveled twenty-three miles. Had breakfast six miles from where we started. About three p.m. met with BRIGHAM'S and HEBER'S sons. They were glad to see us. About half past five we were taken in a thunder storm and traveled an hour and a half in it. Camped at six p.m. Plenty of water and feed. Wood rather scarce. The wagons with the tents did not arrive till twelve midnight. We were cold and wet. Still we felt all right.
September 23rd. The camp rolled out at twelve p.m. and traveled eighteen miles. The roads were pretty good. We forded the Weber about one p.m. and had dinner on the Weber banks. Camped about thirty past six p.m. Wood, water, feed plenty. We were visited by a few Indians.
September 24th. The camp rolled out at seven a.m. and traveled twenty miles. The roads were rather rough and rugged. Camped about thirty past six p.m. Wood, water, feed, plenty.
September 25th. The camp rolled out at seven a.m. and traveled twenty miles. Crossed canyon eleven times. The roads a little rough. Had dinner at the bottom of Big Mountain. Crossed Big Mountain in two hours and fifty-five minutes. Camped at the foot of the Little Mountain at six p.m.
September 26th. The brethren from the city sent us a wagon with provisions as we were rather short. At thirty past ten a.m. the camp rolled and traveled thirteen miles. About eight miles from the city we were met with Governor YOUNG and his counselors the Nauvoo brass band, the Lancers, and a great many others. We were first rate received in the city. Provisions of all kinds came rolling in to us in camp. The brethren of the city manifested great interest towards us as a company, which caused our hearts to rejoice and be glad.
EDMUND ELLSWORTH, Captain
A. GALLOWAY, Secretary