Mormon History, Nov 3, 1847

[Nauvoo Temple] The Twelve met and decided to write the Trustees, recommending that they give the keys to the Temple to Judge Owens and leave the care of the "building itself in the hands of the Lord." They were also to gather all papers and records, and remove to Winter Quarters.

[Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple]
[source: Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple]

Mormon History, Nov 3, 1847

[Minutes, Quorum of Twelve] Nov[ember]. 3. 1847 " past 10 A.M. Meeting of the Twelve in Pres[iden]t. Young s house.
Present[:] Pres[iden]t. B[righam]. Young, G[eorge]. A. Smith, E[zra]. T. Benson, A[masa].
Lyman, W[ilford]. Woodruff., O[rson]. Pratt, H[eber]. C. Kimball, John S. Fulmer, Phinehas Young, T[homas]. Bullock.
Phinehas Young related an account of his return to Winter Quarters-& [his] visit with the Pawnees-[and about] Buffalos, Wolves, &c.
[A]t 11" A.M. Bishop [Newell K.] Whitney arrived, also J[esse]. C. Little-[A]t 20 min[utes]: past 11. W[illard]. Richards [came]-[A]t " past Joseph Young [arrived].
The Temple plate was exhibited. [T]hen conversation on the Gun Cotton-12 Grains a charge-also on the "Air Gun- "
John S. Fulmer was called for the Nauvoo news. [He] sho[ul]d. have been here bef[ore].:
Perhaps the Council have given us sufficient liberty to leave-[W]e prolonged till O[rson]. Hyde came-[N]ow the Temple is not to be sold[;] there s nothing worth waiting for-[B]r Neff s Mortgage can be foreclosed-I presume the Temple will be sold-[T]here are some debts to be p[ai]d. bef[ore]. many can get awa[y]-[I]t has been reported that the Temple was sold-
B. Young[: I]f that Temple is sold it will cause much dissatisfation to many.
Fulmer-[W]e understand it was to be sold until the last letter came-[T]here are some poor families who cant get awa[y] without help-W[illia]m. Symes, Mrs. Sherman-Robinson-& some doz[en] families-all the time a crowd-[W]e had to make an equal distribution-[B]r. Heywood & myself want a rig of a team or two-[M]any look to bro Babbit to assist them-[W]e have many times failed a few powers of Attorney yet on hand, Log Buildings [have] all [been] burnt-[It is] a perfect waste & [a] desolate place-[The w]indows [are] all torn out[;] perfect licence is taken to destroy all Church property-[W]e are perfectly case hardened-[There is] considerable religion there-several Missionaries there-the Catholics have the 70 hall, [and] Parleys house, the Priest lives in-[T]he Catholics & Methodists want [the] Temple-
B. Young[:] We ve got to leave the Temple, yet the Lord will preserve it-
N K Whitney[:] The Lord will take out a writ of error one of these days-
Fulmer[: W]e would only get [$]20 or [$]30,000 for it-about the price of a College.
B. Young[:] " wo[ul]d. motion /if it co[ul]d be coun[te]d. as [?] on my [?]/ that the Tr[ust]ees with all their books come from there /nauvoo & go immediately over the mountains/ with the property we need-[L]eave it in the hands of the Lord, & we go over the mountains-while (not put)
N K Whitney[: W]e ve borrowed [$]100. to pay for the 24 boxes-[with] no advices from Babbitt advising us what was in it-[A] mess of worthless rubbish [was] with it-
Fulmer-J[ohn]. Taylor sent for his books to come by land-[W]e sent them to bro. Felt at St. Louis-who shipt them up to the Point.
N K W.[: A]ll we heard was a letter from Beach & Eddy.
B. Young[: A]ll /our/ presses are gone then-Fulmer, we realized 700 on those presses-
[A]ll the Library was sent-
G. A. Smith-[I]f the Stone tools are sold-we lose the avails-& when we want new ones we shall be short of means-
Fulmer-[W]e have 10 or [a] Doz[en] Law Suits-I do bel[ieve]. that bro Babbitt has done well-[H]e has kicked a Strangits arse-
Young[:] "H]e ought to have his sins for 6 months forgiven for that"-
Fulmer-Babbitt reported that he had a mission to sell [the] Kirtland Temple & Nauvoo Temple-[W]e tho[ugh]t. best to make a title to bro McBride. [We] instructed bro Babbit not to record it until [it was] sold-then record [it], & make a title-[W]hen he returned he had recorded it-& anot[he]r. [was] made to Lawyer Edmonds-[T]hey went to New York as Church Agents- but could not sell it-[B]r. Heywood has written to the Recorder but rec[orde]d. no ans[we]r.-[W]e thot he (Babbit) had transcended his duties & powers. I do not lay it as a complaint but to clear ourselves.
O. Pratt[:] " motion that the Trustees gather up all the books & papers /& Church/ pertaining to [the] Church affairs in Nauvoo as they can get hold of, & as many of the /poor/ Saints /as they can/ as the soon as they can & go over the mountains that they gather up to this place /with as much Church property as they can/ & be ready to start with the Spring Emigration." [S]ec[onde]d. by H. C. Kimball-[the] vote [was] carried unanimously-[S]ee that Edmunds deeds the Kirtland Temple back to the Trustees.
Fulmer-O. Hyde at Nauvoo-br Heywood told him [of] his affairs-O. H. told him to foreclose the Mortage on the arsenal & appropriate [$]1,000-
Smith[: I]t wo[ul]d. be a matter between br. Hyde, Heywood & Neff-
Young[:] I would rather it stand as it is.-I have no objection.
B Young[:] I told br: Babbitt last fall to leave Nauvoo, & say Good bye Babylon, let the dead bury their dead.
B. Young enquired if there was any objection for me, to sending for the carriage at Nauvoo., a proper Stage Coach.
H. C. Kimball[:] I am willing you should have it-W. Richards[: S]o am I. H. C. Kimball[:] "I motion that bro Brigham have the carriage."-O Pratt & W Richards[:] "I second it"-[A]ll voted unanimously-
Pres[iden]t. Young then exhibited the plan of "the Great Salt Lake City" to Bishop Whitney & Fulmer-& gave a description of the road to the Valley-
B. Young[:] I think [it] best for bro Little to take charge of the Churches, & get the Saints off as fast as he can.
H. C. Kimball[:] I think [it] best for bro Appleby to get into the Valley as he is troubled with the Slow fever-
G. A. Smith[:] "I move that brother Little receive letters /of instructions/ to the Eastern Churches & continue to superintend the affairs there-& call that such men to his assistance as he needs."-O Pratt seconded-& [the motion was] carried.
E. T. Benson motions that brother John Brown have similar letters to go to Mississippi with, as bro, Little has-
B. Young[:] I am willing-
ET. H. C. Kimball[:] I motion that brother /Matthew/ Ivory have a recommend as a pioneer, gather up his effects a faithful man, & to hearken to his advice, then gather up & come on-A. Lyman sec[onde]d: & [the motion was] carried.
G. A. Smith motioned an adjournment, A Lyman sec[onde]d., & [it was] carried. /must say/ B. Young[: Let us] adjourn to this place at 10 oclock on Friday morning.

[source: Minutes, Quorum of Twelve]
[Minutes, Quorum of Twelve]

Mormon History, Nov 3, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 3rd I spent the day in council with the quorum of the Twelve. Council was given to Br Little & going east [ ]. I wrote 6 letters which I sent by Col Little to the following persons: Col Kane, I F Carter, Ezra Carter sen, Sarah B Foss, Shuah Moulton & Leonard Hardy. We herd an interesting letter read from capt Dan Jones of Wales. He could represent 1,000 Saints in that land. Other letters were also read.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Nov 2, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Tuesday & Wednesday Nov 2 & 3 1847. At and around home repairing & seting lots &c in order

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Nov 2, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 2d I spent the day with Br Benbow getting polls for a stable & yard.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Nov 1, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Monday Nov 1st 1847. I was engaged all day today in arrainging and distributing the articles of the company which were left in the two waggons at my house.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Nov 1, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] Nov 1st The first day of winter. We found on our arival that the Brethren at winter quarters had been also greatly blessed in there labours in tilling the earth that it had brought forth abundance of corn Buckwheat turnips & other vegitables & the city was full of Hay & surrounded with corn. I had many calls during the day. I made my aranged my business with Br Stillman & others.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, fall of 1847

[Willard Richards] When the First Presidency of the church was reorganized in the , he was made second counselor to Brigham Young. As the Saints settled in the Salt Lake Valley and organized the provisional government of the State of Deseret, Richards was appointed the territorial secretary. fall of 1847

[source: Utah History Encyclopedia: Willard Richards, http://www.uen.org/utah_history_encyclopedia/r/RICHARDS%2CWILLARD.html]

Mormon History, fall of 1847

Parley Parker Pratt: Moved to Great Salt Lake Valley in . fall of 1847

[source: Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]

Mormon History, fall of 1847

John Taylor: To Salt Lake Valley in . fall of 1847

[source: Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]

Mormon History, fall of 1847

[African Americans in Utah] The James family - consisting of Isaac, his wife Jane, and sons Sylvester and Silas -were the first free blacks to settle in Utah. Isaac James and Jane Manning met and subsequently married in Nauvoo, Illinois, prior to the Mormons' forced evacuation. The family arrived in Utah in the . The James family shared the trials and tribulations faced by other pioneers attempting to support themselves in this new land. They were joined by other black Mormons, including the Elijah Abel and Frederic Sion families, in settling pioneer Utah. fall of 1847

[source: Utah History Encyclopedia: African Americans in Utah, http://www.uen.org/utah_history_encyclopedia/a/African_Americans.html]

Mormon History, October 1847

Levi Ward Hancock: Arrived in Salt Lake City . October 1847

[source: Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]

Mormon History, October 1847

[George Q. Cannon] George Cannon accompanied the John Taylor family to Winter Quarters in 1846, and arrived in the Salt Lake Valley in . Two years later, he accompanied Charles C. Rich on a church mission to the California gold mines and then continued on to the Sandwich Islands with nine other missionaries. October 1847

[source: Utah History Encyclopedia: George Q. Cannon, http://www.uen.org/utah_history_encyclopedia/c/CANNON%2CGEORGE.html]
[Utah History Encyclopedia: George Q. Cannon, http://www.uen.org/utah_history_encyclopedia/c/CANNON%2CGEORGE.html]

Mormon History, October 1847

George Albert Smith: Remained in Kanesville, Iowa, -July 1849; there took charge of emigration and assisted in administering affairs of Church. October 1847

[Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]
[source: Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]

Mormon History, October 1847

[Charles C. Rich] Pisgah, Iowa, Rich was named military leader of the 1847 Emigration Company, which followed Brigham Young's Pioneer Company into Salt Lake Valley in . Rich served as a counselor in the Salt Lake Stake presidency and as a member of the Council of Fifty. October 1847

[Utah History Encyclopedia: Charles C. Rich, http://www.uen.org/utah_history_encyclopedia/r/RICH%2CCHARLES.html]

Mormon History, 1847 (Dec)

[Wives of John Taylor] sister of Sophia - Harriet Whitaker (3rd child) b. 1816 d.1882 - married at S.L.C. [Recognized by LDS Church]

[source: Isle of Man, 'John Taylor' http://www.isle-of-man.com/manxnotebook/mormon/jtaylor.htm]

Mormon History, Oct 31, 1847. Sunday.

[William Clayton Journal] I have spent the past week fixing the houses, making window sash &c. and have been once up to the farm. Our health continues good, and Moroni is improving, but I find it impossible to get a little sugar for the sick and several other little necessaries which are much needed. My situation is gloomy but I am in hopes it will soon improve. Elder Amasa Lyman got in from the company of the Twelve on Thursday evening and says they are yet a hundred miles back, and their teams wore [down]. Some of the men are sick and the whole lack provisions. A company left here yesterday morning with teams and provisions for their help. The Twelve and company arrived in Winter Quarters this afternoon which cheered the hearts of the saints much.

[source: George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]

Mormon History, Oct 31, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Sunday Oct 31st 1847. North wind & cold day. All felt uncommonly well and joyful. We started at 9 oclock and drove very hard untill we arrived at mill creek two miles above Winter Quarters stoping a short time at the papea. The company was strung along for miles according to the speed of their teams or the anxiety of their drivers
We were however formed at mill creek and waited untill all came up, when we were formally dismissed by the President with the blessings of God. He said that our coming enabled them to come home at least five days sooner. I went from there home and found all well

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 31, 1847

Heber Chase Kimball: Returned to Winter Quarters 31 October 1847.

[source: Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]

Mormon History, Oct 31, 1847

George Albert Smith: Returned to Winter Quarters 31 October 1847.

[source: Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]

Mormon History, Oct 31, 1847

President Brigham Young of the Twelve returns to Winter Quarters from his pioneer trek to the Salt Lake Valley, having made the return trip in only sixty-seven days.

[source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]
[The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]

Mormon History, Oct 31, 1847

[Brigham Young Sermon] Brethren, I will say to the Pioneers, I wish you to receive my thanks for your kindness and willingness to obey orders; I am satisfied with you: you have done well. We have accomplished more than we expected. Out of one hundred forty-three men who started, some of them sick, all of them are well; not a man has died; we have not lost a horse, mule, or ox, but through carelessness; the blessings of the Lord have been with us. If the brethren are satisfied with me and the Twelve, please signify it, (which was unanimously done). I feel to bless you all in the name of the Lord God of Israel. You are dismissed to go to your own homes. -- Winter Quarters, Nebraska [History of the Church. 7 Vols. B. H. Roberts, ed. Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, Co., 1902. 7:616]

[source: The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]

Mormon History, Oct 31, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 31st Sunday A strong wind. We All got our Breakfast & organized for going to Winter Quarters. The company that came out to met us went in front & our encampment followed. We had A hard days drive As our Horses were worn down. We travled hard through the day. When within About one mile of Winter Quarters We made A Halt And the company was drawn up in order & Addresed by President Young & dismissed.
We drove into the city in order. The streets were lined with people to shake hands as we drove along. Each one drove to his own home. I drove up to my own door & was truly rejoiced to once more behold the face of my wife & children again after being absent over six months And having travled with the Twelve & the Pioneers near 2,500 miles & sought out a location for the Saints And Accomplished one of the most interesting mishions ever accomplished at the last days.
Mrs Woodruff had been confined with A daughter 3 days previous to my arival. Mother & daughter doing well. All was cheerful Happy & we felt it A blessing to again meet. Distance from the Horn 30 m.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 30, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Saturday Oct. 30th 1847. Clear & warm â€" wind still South[.] Went to the Horne & crossed at the Ford and went to the old road put up in the timber. Here we were met by Butler Whitney & some 14 teams a large company of brethren who brought several loads of corn provisions groceries victuals cooked[.] Whiskey & in short all that we needed. A very large supply was sent to my company by my wife & some others sufficient I suppose to do us two weeks.
We had a most joyful meeting and a very happy time[.] Many of the pioneers had subsisted on buffalo meat entirely for months and when this supply came they hardly knew when to quit eating. It was a perfect feast & I enjoyed myself uncommonly well & we wer up till late.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 30, 1847

[Brigham Young Sermon] The brethren were called together in the center of the ring and were addressed by President Young. Said that he wished to go ahead to Winter Quarters tonight, and if there were any, to arise. None however did. An expression was then taken whether we shall all remain in a body, horsemen and all, and go into town together or otherwise. -- Elk Horn River, Nebraska [Heber C. Kimball Journals, Special Collections, Merrill-Cazier Library, Utah State University, Logan.]

[source: The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]

Mormon History, Oct 30, 1847

[Brigham Young Sermon] I enquired if any man wanted to go to Winter Quarters tonight; but no one manifested a desire to do so. An expression was then taken that they would all remain in a body, and go into the town together tomorrow, in our organized order. Elder Kimball and I then expressed our satisfaction with the conduct of the pioneers during the journey, and blessed them in the name of the Lord. -- Elk Horn River, Nebraska [Manuscript History of Brigham Young, 1847- 1850. William S. Harwell, ed. CollierÂ's Publishing, 1997.:75]

[source: The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]

Mormon History, Oct 30, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 30th We travled 15 miles & camped on the east side of the Horn. We met in the Afternoon & arange-ments was made about going to Winter Quarters on the morrow the order of going &c. 15.
A company of about 20 waggons arived about sundown from winter Quarters to meet us. Brothers Cutler Whitney & many other friends were among the number & we were truly glad to meet with them. They brought Corn for our Horses & food for ourselves & we had quite A feast for supper. Br John Fulmer gave me an account of the progress of the Mexican war. That Gen. Scott had taken Mexico with the loss of 1,700 men killed & many wounded & no prospect of peace. We spent A good share of the night in conversing upon a variety of subjects. 15.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 29, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Friday Oct 29th 1847. Started at daylight and went two miles and turned out our horse in cottonwood timber where there was good feed and then travelled on to the liberty pole where all came before dark. We found rushes on a small island in the river[.] Have 3 days South wind.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 29, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 29th We travled 25 miles & camped at the liberty pole. Fed on cotton wood & rushes. 25.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 28, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Thursday Oct 28th 1847. Fine morning. South wind. Went to Shell Creek & staid all night. Here we found the Company with the ox teams had burnt the prairie and almost entirely destroyed our feed.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 28, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 28th We travled 23 miles & camped on shell creek. 23. Shuah Carter Woodruff was born 5 oclok this morning.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 27, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Wednesday Oct. 27th 1847. Went on. Crossed Beaver river at half past Eleven & the Looking Glass at half past one and encamped just above Sarpys old trading house[.] This is near the mouth of the Loup Fork.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 27, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 27th We travled 25 miles & camped whare the Pawnees visited while going up. We got in late & fed on cotton wood. 25 miles.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 26, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Tuesday Oct 26th 1847. Started earley. Cold & cloudy I & W. Meeks rode on ahead today to look for some corn or any other vegitables which we might glean on the missionary farms. Several bushels were geathered. We staid at the old station all night

[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 26, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 26th We travled to day 20 miles & camped at the old Pawnee Missionary Station whare we stoped going up. The missionaris had been reinstated & built several buildings during the summer but the sioux had come down & drove them off again. We put our Horses into A small patch of oats. We went through the Corn fields that had been gatherd to try to glean a little corn for our Horses. I worked 3 Hours & got 1 1/2 bushels of ears. Distance of the day 20.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 25, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Monday Oct 25th 1847. Handsome snow this morning[.] Still cloudy but turned warm as the sun rose.
Several went out in the river in search I among the rest where we waded for along time and finally located a crossing at the old ford and proceeded on our journey & stopped at the upper Old Pawnee village where we staid all night. To night the President sent Amasa Lyman & 6 men on to Winter Quarters to give notice of our coming.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 25, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 25th We spent about 2 Hours searching for a ford. The water was cold. Some snow on the ground in the morning. It disappeared after the sun got up. We found a ford and all got over much better than we expect[ed?]. Some of the first teams got down & had to be helped out.
As soon as the road was packed we went well. We travled 10 miles & camped on the platt at an old Indian town. A Company was fitted out for winter Quarters. I wrote A letter to Mrs Woodruff. 10.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 24, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Sunday Oct 24th 1847. The wind was still very high. We attempted again to cross but bogged as on yesterday.backed out and went about a mile down the river and stoped for the night again. Cold Cloudy windy day.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 24, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 24th Sunday We tried to ford the Lou fork. Several men crossed on Horse back. There Horses fell & plunged the men into the water. Several waggons followed. Horses got stalled into the quick sand & waggons had to be Halled out by Hand & it was given up for the day. The Camp moved down the river one mile & camped for the day. It was vary cold & windy & a snow storm at night which made it bad on our poor weak Horses. We cut down cotton wood trees & fed them on the limbs.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 23, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Saturday Oct 23rd 1847. We were up at 4 oclock[.] The aurora most magnifficiently this morning.
We started at sunrise & to the upper ford of the Loup and attempted to cross but the wind being very high caused the quick sand to be more loose, we bogged our animals and abandoned the idea and camped on the banks.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 23, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 23rd We crossed the country 23 miles to day over broaken sandy land to the Lou fork of the Platt & camp on the bank of the stream at the ford. It was A warm plesant day. We had nothing but dry grass to feed our Horses on at night which is poor feed to work on. 23 miles.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 22, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Friday Oct 22nd 1847. Clear & cold Hard frost and freeze. Started at 9 and went to prairie creek at 2 oclock and stoped for the night.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 22, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 22nd We travled 14 miles & camped on the open prairie by A slew of water. I have taken Cold & did not feel well to day. 14.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 21, 1847. Thursday.

[William Clayton Journal] This morning Brother [William] Empey, [Lisbon] Lamb and myself started early accompanied by 6 horsemen and arrived in Winter Quarters a little before noon. I found my family all well except Moroni who is very sick and his mother is some sick. Their circumstances are not good, but in other respects they have been prospered for which I thank my God. There has been much sickness here and many deaths during the fall, and many are now suffering for lack of some of the comforts of life. We have been prospered on our journey home and have arrived in 9 weeks and 3 days, including a week's delay waiting for the Twelve and killing buffalo. Our health has been remarkably good, but we have lacked provisions, many of us having nothing but dry buffalo meat. I have succeeded in measuring the whole distance from the City of the Great Salt Lake to this place except a few miles between Horse Creek and the A La Bonte river which was taken from the measurement going up. I find the whole distance to be 1032 miles and am now prepared to make a complete travelers guide from here to the Salt Lake, having been careful in taking the distance from creek to creek, over bluffs, mountains &c. It has required much time and care and I have continually labored under disadvantages in consequence of the companys feeling no interest in it. The health of my family has encouraged me for all that is past and my secret gratitude shall ascend to Heaven for the unbounded kindness and mercies which the Almighty has continually poured upon them in my absence.

[source: George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]

Mormon History, Oct 21, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Thursday Oct 21st 1847. Let out our horses to the rushes very earley. They were very hungry, having been closely carralled all night. G. W. Langley & W. J. Earl were both very sick & had been for several days also were some more of my company but all else was well
We traveled today to the mouth of Wood river and camped in a dry branch of the platte to shield us from the wind which was very cold and disagreeable travelling today

[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 21, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 21st We travled 16 miles & camped on wood river. Fed our Horses on rushes & cotton wood. It has been Cold to day. 16 m.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 20, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Wednesday Oct 20th 1847. Cloudy cold disagreeable morning. I felt well. Travelled. Had orders to search a waggon this morning which had stolen money about it.
Four men traveled with this waggon. The money stolen belonged to Br Kelogg whom we met on Wood river. When he came back with us, he found his box opened and ten dollars in gold had been taken. He reported the same to the president who immediately gave me the orders to search them who belonged to the waggon & make diligent search & find the money if I had to tear all their clothes to strings & tear up & destroy all they had & burn their good waggon & and harness to ashes & sift the ashes but what I found it & if I had to go to that extreemity let the mans bones who did the deed bleach on the prairie & for me to wait till the camp started and stop the waggons and make the search after the rest of the company had gone on. Accordingly I laid it before the company all who were ready to assist me
The camp started & Bishop Calkins ordered the waggon out of the line and halted them when we all came up formed a circle around them and I in a very few words informed them the object of the search telling them at the same time what the consequences were in cas we had to search to extremity.
They all protested their innocence declaring they were ready to be searched
I put them all under guard forbidding them to handle anything about their persons least it might be sliped away.several proceeded on to over haul the goods &c in the waggon but without any kind of a prospect of finding it
It Being very cold I set another set to search their persons but before the first man was searched G. D. Grant in looking over William Buckhannans knapsack found the two pieces in one of his pantaloons pock[et] while he was looking on & not two minutes before said a man must be a damned fool to suppose he would put money in there.
Seeing the money was found he said that it was his own & forbid us taking it, Grant gave it to me however & I kept itof course the search now stoped & we began to pack up in a hurry for we were all very cold & the camp was now a long way ahead.
Just as we were through we saw Prest Richards & Benson coming back to us. I met them & reported the state of affairs who said that they had been sent back by Prest Young to tell us not to burn up anything in case we did not find the money but to come on & not detain the camp & we could look to it hereafter. I gave the money to Richards & told him to give it to the President.
We now all being ready to start formed a circle again and took a good pull at a large canteen of whiskey[.] Buckhannan impudently wishing us success in the discharge of our duty as he drank
We all now hastened on[.] This day terminated in a wet disagreeable day
We traveled about 25 miles and camped on the platte in the rushes where we supped on the night of the 16th inst. We arrived here at ten at night all very tired.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 20, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 20th The meat we had killed this morning was divided in camp. We then continued our Journey. It had much the appearance of a Cold Storm from the north East. It did rain some during the day. We travled 30 miles & camped upon grand Island. It was A tedious Cold day & night. We fed our Horses on rushes & cotton wood. 30 m.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 19, 1847

[Nauvoo Temple] The Warsaw Signal reported that during the past year the temple had been on the verge of being sold a number of times, only to have the transfer of title fail, because of a reportedly defective deed.

[source: Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple]

Mormon History, Oct 19, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Tuesday Oct 19th 1847. Fine pleasant morning but cold. Baided our horses till seven and went on in pursuit of the hunters whom we found after travelling some twelve miles, about ten oclock near the Bluffs.
They had already killed all the Buffalos they wanted or at least as many as they could draw home and was now on their way to camp having gone about half a mile when they discovered us afar off. We saw them at about the same time & made towards them full speed. They not knowing what to think of us, not expecting to meet us, they naturally supposed us to be indians and prepared for battle which we saw and thereby knew them to be whites for whet through the evolations of the whites and not indians.
We took this advantage of them and charged on them who kept in excellent order for an onset. But as we drew near they recognized us to be whites which still was the more strange to them. They kept good order untill we got within a few rods of them when Amasa Lyman recognising me broke ranks & ran to me calling me by name which broke the charmall now knew me & several of the rest.
Insted of a battle we had another meeting such as we had yesterday and such as is not to be realized only by friends under the same circumstances.several of the brethren went back with us to the place which they camped last night, while the rest went on with the waggon to the main camp.
We there took breakfast, which was served by Elder Wilford Woodruff in pure Mountaineer style, consisting of roasted buffalo ribs.
This I believe was the first pure hunters meal I ever eat. It is supprising how much we could eat at one single meal. Whilest we were very hungry we would eat the meat almost raw which had a good relish.
After breakfast was over we traveled being now about 20 miles from the main camp. We walked & rode alternately with those who had no horses. We traveled hard all day stopping a short time to dine.and arrived in camp about an hour after dark and found all well.
Several had went over the river today to kill some buffalo which were in sight & some of my company killed a fat cow which bountifully supplied us home.
We were about all over done when we arrived in camp & I was very sick with the head ache
The whiskey which we had brought along as well as everything else was given over to the order of the President, who treated us when we came in[.] It came welcome to the pioneers.

[Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 19, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 19th + Early this morning we prepared ourselves to return to camp. The company of Hunters started A little before the waggons We had got about A mile on the way when we discoverd 7 men about 2 miles from us coming from some scattering timber. We at first took them to be Indians on foot. We saw they were approaching us. We soon found However they were mounted white men. We then thought they were troops. They soon Charged upon us with all speed. We stood ready with our arms in hand to meet them. But when they came up to our great surprise & Joy we found them to be the Policee of winter Quarters led by Brother Hosea Stout. They informed us that 16 of them had Come from Winter Quarters to meet our camp thinking we might need some help. The remainder of the party stoped at our main camp. We stoped our teams & returned with them to our camp ground & got the Brethren some Breakfast out of the fat Buffaio, while this was going on we were busy in asking many questions about our wives & Children & friends & affairs at Winter Quarters & they were truly welcome messengers & like Angels unto us.
It was truly like good news from a far country to Hear from our families & friends once more. We travled together through the day And arived in camp at 8 oclok in the evening & had an interview with the rest of the Brethren from Winter Quarters. It was truly a happy meeting.
I spent the evening at Dr Richards waggon reading the papers concerning the Mexican War, the Ship fever making devastation through the land, & other Affairs through the United States. It was truly interesting day to me. Distance 25.

[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 18, 1847 (Monday)

Thirty-two of the Battalion boys, who were anxious to meet their families at Winter Quarters, left G.S.L. City for that place, where they arrived Dec. 18th, after a hard journey.

[source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

Mormon History, Oct 18, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Monday Oct 18th 1847. All was well only we were all very cold and disagreeable. We started about ten oclock & very soon come in contact with another Buffalo which we pursued & had a long race through a Dog village which is very dangerous to horses on account of the numerous holes in the ground[.] This village is 5 or 6 miles long & very wide
Very soon after we left our buffalo chace and returned to the road we discovered some body on ahead which soon proved to be the pioneers who were strung along the road some on foot & some a Horse back for three or four miles
We formed in line at open distance with our two waggons in the centre and met them making a formadable appearance at a distance. We marched fast passing many who did not know us untill we met the Twelve when we halted & every man ran to greet his friends.
It is useless for me to attempt to describe this meeting. The whole of us was in a perfect extacy of joy & gladness. They were worn down with fatigue and hunger with many an anxious thought on home and the welfare of their families & the church. Many of their animals had to be lifted up every time they laid down.
As for us we had only one feeling now. All our anxiety & care was gone. In the midst of our brethren all our care and responsibility was gonewe gave ourselves up to the enjoyment of meeting & being with them. All was well & we had only to tell them that we was ready to assist them to any thing we had.
The President said it was more joy more satisfaction to meet us than a company of angels for they heard from their families & we from the valley.
After our meeting was over we all went on with them & encamped within one mile of the place we staid last night.
About dark Thos Woolsey came in from those who were on a buffalo hunt & reported that he saw 500 Pawnee Lodges erected on Grand island and that he thought the hunters were in great danger from them. Whereupon President Young sent me with five other men to give them notice & tell them to hasten to the Company. Accordingly we set out about dark & went to Buffalo Creek & put up for the night[.] It was now 11 oclock.
Here we staid without much grass for our horses and no water untill morning. We traveled about fifteen miles tonight.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 18, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 18th At daylight 4 of us went to the Bluffs to exhamine the position of the herds of Buffalo. We saw many both on the Hills & flats. We returned to camp took our Breakfast of roast meat then divided & went out two by two. Luke Johnson went with me about 3 miles from camp, we came upon 3 wild Horses upon the side of the Bluff. They were splendid looking Animals but the most wild of any Animals I ever saw.
After returning to the Bluffs we found that the Herds on the upland were travling to the N. & N.E. & the ownly way to obtain meat was for the Hunters to confine themselves to the Herds on the flat. They did so & killed nine Buffalo. But seven of them was dressed & brought in & wolves feasted on the other two.
We got council from camp for us to return early in the morning & not tary any longer. We travled in our Hunt during the day 16 m.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 17, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Sunday Oct 17th 1847. All was well this morning. Cold south wind. Went back to the Platte to get our breakfasts & bait our horses on the rushes
Started at 9 oclock and traveled a few miles & discovered a buffalo on the level plain. Four of us pursuid him[.] Had a fine race. None of us knew anything the quaities of one & supposing it to be very fat we fired on him & killed him but when Br Potter & Glines came up they told us he was too poor to be eat which we did not believe untill we opened him. After satisfying our courosity with him we went on a few miles further & saw another. This we soon found to be worse than the other so we satisfied our curiosity by running him and seeing his manouvers which was very interesting to us & then we let him go & we pushed on our journey, & came to a dog village a thing so much said & wrote about. As I had heard we found them on their posts looking for whatever might come to injure them & giving notice to the rest by a sharp bark & running from borough to borough in a few moments the entire village was apprized of our approach
The village was miles in extent and consists of thousands of these little republicans. Here we found the owl & rattle snake boroughed with them[.] These villages is very common after this.
We saw drove of antelope today. We traveled on till 2 oclock P. M. and turned to the river to bait & refreshstaid one hour & went on untill sundown and encamped at the mouth of a large ravine on the river our animals was very tired tonight having traveled 25 miles today. Cold North wind all night.slept in the high grass in the ravine to shield them from the wind.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 17, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 17th Sunday As we had not meat enough to carry our Camp to winter Quarters it was thought wisdom for a company & Hunters to return back A few miles with some waggons to the Buffalo Herds & procure some more meat. Twelve of us returned back 10 miles with three waggons. A Lyman & myself was among the number.
We Pitched our camp in a little timber on a slew of water & we killed two Buffalo during the evening & brought in including butchers & teamsters there was about 20 of us & we were all Hungry & after cleaning the body of the meat from the bones our company roasted the bones, & for our supper & Breakfast we used up the bones of Both Buffaloes. It is almost incredible what amount of roasted Buffalo meat A Hungry man will eat without salt or bread & not make him sick. There is no other meat known that A man can eat as much of.
The hump bones of a fat Buffalo roasted is the most choice eating of any meat kind. The leg bones are also filled with marrow more Choice than Butter & yield a great quantity which we roasted & drank the melted marrow without bread. We should have made A delightful picture for An Artist to have drawn the seenery around our fireside.
After all had eaten to our full satisfaction we prepared to make our beds for the night. It was cold & blew a perfect gale. We made choice of A thicket of willows under A bank for our lodging place for the night. We lay down on the ground & covered ourselves over with our blankets & robes & had a good nights rest. 12.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 16, 1847. Saturday.

[William Clayton Journal] The night has been very stormy, there being strong wind, rain and very cold. We made an early start and by noon arrived at the mission station. We found the Pawnees busy gathering corn, probably near a thousand of men, women and children. They soon began to come to the wagons and their chiefs made inquiries by signs about the Chirrarots or Sioux. Some of the brethren gave them to understand that the Sioux were within 5 days of them. The chief immediately gave the word to the rest and in half an hour the squaws had loaded their corn on ponies and mules and then began to march towards the river. They show great fear of the Sioux. They were very anxious to have us camp with them tonight but we kept moving on. One of the wagons was upset crossing a ravine. Several of the brethren traded for corn. At 3 o'clock we arrived and turned out the teams on Beaver River having traveled 17 1/4 miles. Soon after we arrived some of the Indians came up having followed with corn to trade. They have conducted themselves peaceably so far, but they are not to be trusted. In consequence of their following us, it was the feeling of most of the brethren to go on a few miles after dark. At 1/4 to 4 we started on and travelled til half past 8 being 6 1/2 miles, then camped beside the Lakes. Evening very fine and pleasant. We have travelled 23 3/4 miles today . . .

[source: George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]

Mormon History, Oct 16, 1847 (Saturday)

Those of the discharged Battalion boys who did not return to California arrived in G.S.L. City.

[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

Mormon History, Oct 16, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Saturday Oct. 16th 1847. Cold North wind. All well. Started at 8 oclock and went to Wood River 12 miles 12 feet wide and one deep. A most beautiful stream. Here we met S. H. Goddard & Kellogg who had come on in advance of the company trying to take over the ox teams. Goddard was lying by the road side fast asleep & was waked by my hollowing to the company to Halt, badly frightened supposing it was Pawnees. Kellogg was on Grand island hunting and saw us coming. They starving almost[.] We turned out our horses & took dinner. They said we would meet some more today[.] But the main company was perhaps several days behind yet. We felt well satisfied now for we learned that they were on the move but slowly & that they had recovered most of their horses from the souix. We only staid here about an hour and then pushed on to meet A. Lyman & some more who Goddard said was hard by. They turning back with us. Our company now accounted to nineteen.
We traveled 14 miles and stopped on the main Platte and baited our horses on a good bed of rushes in the thick timber and got our suppers, and not thinking it a safe place to guard ourselves against the Indians we went about one mile out in the prairie where we staid all night.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 16, 1847

Nineteen-year-old plural wife Emmeline B. Woodward writes her fifty-two-year-old husband Newel K. Whitney after two years of marriage: "That portion of your affection which I enjoy is sweeter to me, than the WHOLE love of another could be now . . . Like as a vine entwineth itself around an AGED tree, so do my affections entwine about thy heart."

[source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]

Mormon History, Oct 16, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 16th We travled to day out of the Buffalo range & camped on the Platt. Just before Camping our Brethren who had been sent on to overtake the ox teams came to us except two continued on. They could not gain upon the teams & gave it up.
Br Luke Johnson Came near being killed by a herd of Buffalo travelling in the night A large herd came upon him suddenly & he was caught in the midst of thems & could not get out & the herd was some 15 minutes passing him & the ownly way He kept them from treading on him was by hollowing & striking & punching them with his cane on each side of him as they came along & they would open Just wide enough for him to stand as they passed along. 15.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 15, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Friday Oct 15th 1847. Fine clear morning. We all rested well after our addition to our bedding.
We started earley and crossed the river which was quite miry in the quick same our waggon horses bogged and some had to go into the watter to get them out
We were all over safe at 9 oclock[.] Jack Redding who was with the pioneers turned back with us as a pilot[.] We now traveled on over a leve[l] Bottom for five miles when we came to the Blufs through which we passed for thirteen miles.
It is a barren country of sand hills or a continual succession of Mounds through which we had to pass. The day was very warm & still together with the heat of the sane, made it very pleasant traveling to prairie Creek.12 feet wide & 1 feet deep[.] Low Banks and some miry where we arrived at three o clock and encamped[.] Here was plenty of grass but no wood.
To night was the most sad and gloomy time which we had. Not knowing where the Twelve and those with them were or what had become of them. Perhap they were broke down, & robbed of all their animals and now near Larimie coming slow afoot. Distressed & nearly exhausted. We sat pondering over these things[.] Some of our own company were sick. While in this melencholy mood Bishop Calkins took me out aside and said that he felt like he wanted to speak in toungs which he said was an uncommon thing for himand if it was right & any one here who could interpret he would be glad to speak.
I spoke to the company about who all were anxious to hear him. Saying if there was any intelligence for us in toungs there would be an interpretation also.
He spoke some time vehemently. Levi Nickerson only understood enough to know that it was relative to our situation and those we were in pursuit of & that all was well.
Bishop Calkins then gave us the interpretation which in substance was that our mission was of God, whose eyes & the eyes of angels were over us for our good.
That the Lord had turned away our enemies from us & we had not been seen
For us to press on & be faithfull and our eyes should see those who we sought and we all should return to our homes in peace.
We all felt the force of what was said & agreed to try and do better if we could & press on untill we met them if we had to go to the valley.
This was a very singular circumstance for there was not one of us who was given to enthusiastic notions of this sort which is so common with some brethren[.] But now we all felt an assureance that we would realize what had been spoken.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 15, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 15th We travled 14 miles to day & camped on the Platt. Nothing of particular interest occured during the day. 14 m.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 14, 1847. Thursday.

[William Clayton Journal] Much time was lost this morning in hunting for a place to cross the river. It was finally concluded to cross a mile higher up and we proceeded to the place. While going up we saw a company of horsemen and two wagons on the other side of the river, which we soon recognized to be our brethren from Winter quarters. All the wagons got over safe and camped on the hill having traveled 2 miles. The company is a part of the old police going to meet the next company. We were gladdened with the news they bring from Winter quarters...

[source: George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]

Mormon History, Oct 14, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Thursday Oct 14th 1847. Clear fine morning but cold & frosty. We started at 9 oclock & only went about one mile when W. Meeks & L. Nickerson each killed a fine deer which detained us about one hour in dressing them. They came very seasonable for we needed them
We then traveled on six miles to the Upper Ford of the Loup Fork. Just before we came to the Ford we saw a red flag waving a little above ground and not knowing what it ment we proceeded cautiously up to it & found a late indian encampment an why they left the flag I never learned
While drawing near the ford we discovered a white man on the other side of the river which was soon followed by a long train of waggons which we soon knew to be brethrenso we drew up in order & fired a Salute to them which gave them to know who we were[.] We then went on & met in the platte. Out meeting of course was joyful for we now got to hear from the Valley.
This was but a portion of the pioneers who had been sent ahead with the ox teams to lay up Buffalo meat for the company who were to follow in a short time.
But instead of doing so they proceeded on & were now out of the Buffalo county leaving those who were to follow to shift for themselves. They informed us that the President and in fact all those who were behind were attacted by the Souix & robbed of some Eighty horses.
They sent on for this company to stop but they did not
They also said that we would meet them in 40 miles unless they had gone back to the Valley after loosing their animals. Thus deserting them all in this time of trouble. Those who bore the rule in this contemptable act of leaving the the Twelve & so many of our Brethren robbed of their Horses in the Black Hills were John Pack & William Clayton with some more to back them up. The main body of this camp were true and faithful Saints and viewed this treacherous act in its true light.
This is their own story and you may immagine our feeling of joy, anger & supprise on meeting them and recieving this intelligence. We all came back & encamped togeather to night.& I sent back to President Cutler a report verbal by Pack who promised to deliver it but did not.
We borrowed several buffalo robes of the Pioneers which added to what we had made us comfortable of nights
They said the United States troops were about Grand island which caused our suspicions increase that some trickery was afoot & we sent back word accordingly
This company of the pioneers were all in good health & spirits

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 14, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 14th We travled 15 miles & camped on the Platt or rather a slew runing into it. It was cool & windy. 15.

[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 13, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Wednesday Oct 13th 1847. High wind rose in the night but pleasant at sun rise. Started at 9 and traveled 6 miles to the old Pawnee Station on Plumb Creek which is now in ruins except w or three houses[.] There is some cornfields here about one mile further is the new Station â€" Several Houses & a fort partly finished Here was a large quantity of government property[.] But all was in ruins by the hands of the Souix who had latly destroyed everything which was of much value. Not far from here towards the river is the ruins of an old village which was destroyed by the Souix on the same day that Joseph & Hyrum were slain
The Souix ordered the Missionaries away this summer & have forbid the whites raising any more corn North of the Platte for the Pawneesone mile further we crossed Ash Creek and one & half miles further we came to the Loup Fork which is in all respects similar to the Main Platte. This is at another old Pawnee village. There is several of their Houses & some fences yet standing[.] The land here is very rich
One & a half miles further we came to Cedar Creek 8 rods wide and 2 feet deep a very pretty & sandy Bedded stream.
The land here is changeable. Now we traveled on level prairie and green grass then turn short to the Platte & over deep ravines & High level lands.untill we came to another old Pawnee village which was now entirely destroyed when we decended down a steep hill and crossed another stream & there encamped. We traveled today about 24 miles. We saw the first Deer & Atelope to day
On this Bottom is the remains of old corn fields & dirt fences & is I suppose an old Missionary station. We killed some geese & chickens today. Cold windy & disagreeable today. Very cold night & a hard white frost

[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 12, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Tuesday Oct 12th 1847. We were all most uncomfortable situated this morning. Wet cold & hungry[.] High wind & cold weather
We started at 9 oclock & went to the Looking Glass about 15 miles at noon & then proceeded to the Beaver river about 9 miles further over similar roads. The road all along the Platte is near the same being level with now & then low sandy ridges to cross which is heavy on teams
Bear river is 25 feet wide & two deep steep banks & not miry a most beautiful stream & a good place for large camps.
At dark the wind ceased & we had pleasant weather again.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 12, 1847

While returning from Salt lake valley to Quarters, Brigham Young discussed the of the First Presidency with Woodruff: "I had a question to me by President Young what my opinion concerning one of the Twelve Apostles appointed as the President of the with his two Counsellors. I answered a quorum like the Twelve who had been by revelation -- confirmed by from time to time. I thought it require a revelation to change the of the quorum" (Wilford Diary, Oct. 12, 1847, Church

[source: Lisle G Brown, compiler, "A Chronology of the Development of Apostolic Succession of the First Presidency, 1831-1848"]

Mormon History, Oct 12, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 12th I had A question put to me by President Young what my opinion was concerning one of the Twelve Apostles being appointed as the President of the Church with his two Councellors. I Answered that A quorum like the Twelve who had been appointed by revelation & confirmed by revelation from time to time I thought it would require A revelation to change the order of that quorum. + [Asterisk is Woodruff's.]
We travled 8 miles & nooned. Br Stillman shot A Buffalo cow. I went with my carriage into the Bluffs about 2 miles & we dressed it which took untill near night. I shot at 2 Calves & got neither of them. We did not get into camp untill 9 oclok at night & Br Stillman & myself worked untill 1 oclok cutting & salting up meat. I got but little sleep. 16m.
+ What ever the Lord inspires you to do in this matter I am with you.13th Our Horses are failing more & more daily. Several gave out today we travled 14 miles & camped on the north fork of the Platt. We begin to come again to some timber. Some Buffalo were killed to day & large Herds near us. 14 m.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 11, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Monday Oct. 11th 1847. Fine clear morning.all well[.] We started at half past eight & traveled twelve miles and nooned where the road joins the river & over the same level sand prairie
This after noon was not so pleasant for it commenced to rain smartley while we were here although we went onour road was over sandy ridges for some five miles when we turned off to the river and put up for the night which was most disagreeablely cold and rainy. We now found we had not prepared ourselves with Bedding enough. We were all wet and cold all night but by keeping a good fire we did not suffer extreemly.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 11, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 11th We travled 10 miles & camped on the Platt above the Junktion at 3 oclok I went to the Bluff after some Buffalo. I got into A large Herd & shot a Cow but did not fall but went off with the Herd.
In returning to camp darkness overtook me. I Could not see the Camp so I made for the river. I had to waid through swails for 20 rods nearly to my hips in mud & water. I passed through the mier of plenty of ducks gees swan & wolves. I saw one animal of the Cat kind which I took to be a links.
I struck the platt 4 miles below camp & got in weary Hungry & weary & learned that Br Egbert had killed a Cow & Calf at the Bluffs & a company had gone after them & Could not find the camp. Had like myself to wallow through the swails. We had to raise lights on poles to light them in. One got lost & did not get in untill 10 oclok. 10 m.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 10, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Sunday Oct. 10th 1847. Beautiful fine cool morn but smoky. Started at seven oclock & traveled 13 miles up the river & nooned where the road joins the river & went on in an hour twelve miles and encamped on Shell Creek a beautiful swift stream 12 feet wide & three deep[.] We saw one or two wolves to day for the first time on this journey. The day was cool and windy but ceased to blow towards night[.] To night we commenced to attend our prayers night & morning which we strictly attended to the rest of our journey West.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 10, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 10th Sunday The quorum of the Twelve met together & had a Prayer meeting. The camp moved 3 miles in the evening to better feed. 3 m.

[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 9, 1847. Saturday.

[William Clayton Journal] We have had no disturbance from Indians. We started at 6 o'clock and went on 5 miles to get better feed. We then halted for breakfast. The remainder of the days travel was mostly over Dog towns. A United States soldier came up to the wagons and went with us a few miles. He says there are 90 of them on the Island, surveying and looking out a place to build a Fort. We traveled 17 1/4 miles today then camped near a low bench of land where is plenty of grass and water, and willows for fuel. A number of the soldiers came over to camp. They say the Pawnees are perfectly enraged and savage and that the worst band of between 4 and 500 are on the north side the Platte about 40 miles below . . .

[source: George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]

Mormon History, Oct 9, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Saturday Oct. 9th 1847. All was well this morning.
Sent 3 men up the Horn to look for a ford as we understood that there was one some where up there[.] They returned in about an hour & reported that we could ford the river so we all started at 9 oclock & found a beautiful patch of plumbs just at the ford where we all refreshed ourselves with what we wanted & left Bushels yet on the trees.
We crossed without any difficulty only the water came into the waggon beds a little. After crossing we had to cut a road through thick willows and other bushes about a quarter of a mile which we did with axes knives & swords in a short time & was on the move in one hour from the time we left our place of encampment.
We traveled on a level bottom for 12 miles and encamped on the Platte at the Liberty pole which stood on a high mound on the Banks of the Platte.
The Bed of the Platte is as large as the Bed of the Missouri & was at this time almost dry at the place we came to it. The current ran on the other side of an island & to us it presented but a large plain of white sand. The water of the platte is of a while milky coulor and is very pleasant to drink[.] It is seldom more than 2 or 3 feet deep[.] The current often changes.
The Bed of the river is but a Bed of quick sand in which animals easily Bog and drown especially if they stand long in it in which case they settle down and are fast in the sand
We now had the best of weather being warm and dry

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 9, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 9th We travled 15 miles & camped on Junktion Bluff fork. We had 2 sandy Bluffs to cross to day. Our horses are still failing more & more. 15 m.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 8, 1847. Friday.

[William Clayton Journal] Just as we started this morning, 12 or 15 Indians were seen running over the river towards us. They soon came up to the wagons which were some scattered and although they shook hands they showed savage hostility. Four of the oxen were not yet yoked up, these they drove off from the wagons which now began to draw together. They soon satisfied us that they were bent on robbing us and without ceremony took Jack Reddings horse from behind the wagon. [Lisbon] Lamb went to take it from them and seized the lariette which another immediately cut with his knife. Lamb then got on the horse but no sooner on than two Indians pulled him off and marched off with the horse. They stole Jack Reddings knife out of its sheath and one from John Peacock. They also tried to get Jack off the horse he was riding but he kept his seat. They tried Skeens horse but he kicked one of them over. The Indians then tried to get the men out of their wagons so that they might get in and plunder, but every man kept in his wagon to guard it and we concluded to turn about and go back to the company. We accordingly started and the Indians turned back towards the timber with the horse four Oxen, two knives and a sack of salt. After travelling back about 6 miles we met the company, told the story and bore their slang and insults without saying much, but not without thinking a great deal. The whole company were then formed in two lines. All the arms loaded and each man that could raise a gun was ordered to walk beside the wagons, the horsemen to go ahead. We then proceeded on and when we came opposite to w[h]ere we met with the Indians the horsemen went down and found the oxen where we left them. They brought them up and we travelled til dark, then camped near the river, having traveled 5 1/4 miles from last night exclusive of the distance we went back. A strong guard was placed round the cattle and camp and kept up through the night.
Many hard speeches have passed among the brethren, such as damned hyprocrites, damned liars, mutineers &c. and most of those who started ahead are ordered to travel in the rear all the time. This savage, tyrannical conduct was one thing which induced some to leave and undertake to go through alone and more peaceably, and it will still leave feelings of revenge and hatred which will require some time to cover up. Young [Lorenzo] Babcock shook his fist in Zebedee Coltrins face and damned him, said he could whip him. For my part, I shall be glad when I get in more peaceable society, and I think I shall not easily be caught in such a scrape again.

[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]
[source: George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]

Mormon History, Oct 8, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Friday Oct. 8th 1847. Today about ten oclock we all started on our journey West. The company consisted of sixteen men 12 horsemen & 2 waggons with 2 men to each waggon.
The following are the names of of the company with numbers of rounds of shot each one had in case we were attacted
1 Hosea Stout 21 9 W. Martindale 1
2 G. D. Grant 11 10 W. Huntington 8
3 G. G. Potter 1 L. H. Calkins 9
4 G. W. Langley 3 12 J. W. Cummings 15
5 W. Kimball 21 S. S. Thornton 1
6 Jacob Frazier 1 14 L. Nickerson 6
7 W. J. Earl 6 15 J. H. Glines 1
8 W. Meeks 3 16 C. Whiting 3
which made one hundred & Eleven rounds which would enabled us to make a good defence if occasion had required.
We arrived at the Horn at dark or a little after and encamped near the ferry in the timber
We kept up a vigilant guard all the way on this journeyall things went off well to night.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 8, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 8th We travled 8 miles & nooned. Soon after we stoped A large body of animals appeared in sight over the Bluff. We at first thought it was A Band of mounted warriors but By the aid of our glasses we found them to be a band of one hundred or more Elk. They made A splended appearance. They were about one mile from Camp. Several of us took our guns & went after them. They were as large as good sized mules.
I went up a swail of tall grass. The band came within 10 rods of me their horns waveing in the air upbove the weeds like Rockingchairs. The Bucks were in Advance. As the does were the best this season of the year I drew my gun to my face & waited for one to come in sight. At this instant Another man Came up behind me & they saw him & broke & run. He shot at them as they run but did no good. They ran near a Frenchman who shot a doe through the neck & he fell dead the ownly one killed out of the Band though several shots were made.
I got A piece of it for my supper the first Elk meat I ever ate. We travled 7 miles & camped on the Bank of the Platt. We crossed many pure streams of water to day. Distance 15 m.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 08, 1847

The last group of the "Big Company" arrives in the Salt Lake Valley. This event ends that year's immigration efforts, with over two thousand Saints having arrived in the valley.

[source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]

Mormon History, Oct 7, 1847

[Nauvoo Temple] The Twelve met with Babbitt and counseled him to sell the Church properties in Nauvoo without delay. Babbitt left for Nauvoo the next day.

[source: Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple]

Mormon History, Oct 7, 1847

[Lucy Mack Smith] William is excommunicated from Strang's church for adultery and apostasy.

[source: Anderson, Lavina Fielding, Editor, Lucy's Book: A Critical Edition of Lucy Mack Smith's Family Memoir, 2001, Signature Books, http://bit.ly/lucys-book]

Mormon History, Oct 7, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Thursday Oct. 7th 1847. Was engaged all day in prepareing to start. Langley returned with only 2 horses. There was one or two councils on the subjectthe unanimous feeling of them all was for me to go in all speed
I put the affair of the guard into Allen Stouts hand during my absence. He now confined with a hard attact of the chill fever.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 7, 1847

William E Mclellin: Excommunicated by Strang 7 Oct. 1847

[source: Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 6, Biographical Sketches of General Officers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]

Mormon History, Oct 7, 1847

John C Bennett: Excommunicated 7 Oct. 1847

[source: Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 6, Biographical Sketches of General Officers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]

Mormon History, Oct 7, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 7th It appeared like a Cold storm gathering this morning but it sprinkled a little & cleared off.
We met in the fore part of the day Capt Joseph Walker (Capt Freemont guide through Calafornia) also Mr Pappan the main Proprieter of Fort Laramie. He was quite displeased because Burdeau did not send an interperter & get our Horses. They informed us the Mexican war was still Continued & that 500 troops would be stationed near Winter quarters untill spring. They would then go to the Head of Grand Island & build A fort. Also one at Laramie, And one on Green River. The Pretention for Building these forts is said to be for the purpose of protecting the oregon Emegrants.
We sent letters by Capt Walker to the valley via fort Bridger. He informed us that 100 miles south of the Utah lake was an excellent country for farming Purposes.
We continued our Journey & camped near a creek on the Platt & obtained A letter from Wm. Clayton one week ahead of us & still going ahead. 13.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 6, 1847

[Nauvoo Temple] Trustee Babbitt arrived at Winter Quarters for consultation with the Twelve, who had recently arrived from the Salt Lake valley.

[source: Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple]
[Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple]

Mormon History, Oct 6, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Wednesday Oct 6th 1847. Sent 3 men out on guard & A. Ripley to Belvue to ascertain what was going on there as we had some reason to suppose that something was going on not altogether right.
In the evening when he came home he reported that there were troop marched from Fort Kearney to Grand Island and we were not certain as to their intentions towards us so the council thought best to send me with a company of men to meet the pioneers and put them on their guard and also assist them in case they need us.
Accordingly I went to preparing & Langley was sent over the river with an order from Bp Whitney for as many horses as were needed for that purpose[.] Thus passed today.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 6, 1847

William Smith: Published Sept. renunciation of Strang's organization, excommunicated by Strang 6 Oct. 1847

[source: Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 6, Biographical Sketches of General Officers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]

Mormon History, Oct 6, 1847

Second wagon train of Saints enters the Great Salt Lake valley.

[source: Sherry Baker: Mormon Media History Timeline: 1827-2007, http://byustudies.byu.edu/showTitle.aspx?title=7984]
[Sherry Baker: Mormon Media History Timeline: 1827-2007, http://byustudies.byu.edu/showTitle.aspx?title=7984]

Mormon History, Oct 6, 1847

William Smith organizes a church in Illinois with himself as patriarch and as temporary president "during the minority" of an unnamed son of the martyred prophet. On this same day, in another country of Illinois, Sidney Rigdon's former counselor Samuel James (a member of Joseph Smith's theocratic Council of Fifty) announces that angels have "placed Rigdon's crown upon his head" to lead the Latter Day Saints.

[source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]

Mormon History, Oct 6, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 6th We travled 14 miles & camped on the Bank of the Platt. We overtook 2 of the Brethren who went with A Lyman & co to overtake the Ox teams. There was 2 Buffalo cows & 2 calves killed to day. 14.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 5, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Tuesday Oct 5th 1847. The Horn is about 9 rods wide and can be forded in many places but it is too deep at the crossing[.] It is a good & comfortable place to encamp with plenty of timber & convenient to water stock. The stream is not miry in many places. We started home earley & went on to the Bluffs and there took a good view of the Horn & platte bottoms or plains all then in full bloom which lay before us in a beautifull leavel as far as we could see with good spy glasses[.] It was altogether the best and most splendid view I ever had of a prairie country.
This wide & boundless plain as it appeared lay beneath us decorated with flowers of every color and semed as the garden of nature & is a perfect contrast to the whole tract of land from there to Winter Quarters which lies like the rolling waves of a troubled ocean while the streams will always bog animals when they get into them which is but seldom that they can so deep & inaccessible are their waters to approach.
We now started for home where we arrived at 1 oclock P. M.
I attended the council & Had the subject up for procuring means for the police from the brethren on the other side of the river. This matter had been before Br Hyde & he approved of it.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 5, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 5th This morning at day light A company of 10 men was dispatched on foot to overtake the ox teams & stop them untill we should come up As our Horses was breaking down. From A Bord stuck in the ground. we learned they had stoped 5 days for us & killed & dryed 30 Buffalo Cows & were still about one week ahead of us.
We travled to day 13 miles & camped opposite Ash hollow. We have constant fine Beautiful weather to Journey in. The grass is getting dry & not much substance in it & our Horses are failing upon it. I am thoroughly convinced that oxen are far Preferable to either Horses or Mules for such a Journey esspe-cially if they return in the fall. Distance 13 miles.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 4, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Monday Octr 4th 1847. Lees trial continued today[.] Sent 5 men out on guard. At nine oclock some of the guard & also several men heard what they supposed to be the sound of artillery out in the direction of the Elk Horn and the majority of the people thinking that perhaps it might be the 12 and pioneers returning & gave that as a signal of their approach to us, sent me out there with a company of men on horse back to see about it. We arived there about 10 oclock at night but found nothing

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 4, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 4th Travled 8 miles & nooned. The Frenchman had killed 4 fat cows. A part was divided in camp. 4 Sioux came to us. We travled 8 miles & camped for the night. We have seen immense herds of Buffalo through the day near us. Distance of the day 16 m.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 3, 1847. Sunday.

[William Clayton Journal] ...Considerable anxiety and feeling has originated in the breasts of two or three brethren in consequence of a rumor being circulated which deeply concerns one individual but it is not known who . . .

[source: George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]

Mormon History, Oct 3, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Sunday Oct. 3rd 1847. Sent 6 men out on guard and staid in and went to meeting[.] P. H. Young & some 3 more men returned home from the West & stated to the meeting that the pioneers had found a location in the Valey and laid out a city & had built about 40 rods of "adobie" wall around it and every thing was doing well there. J. D. Lee & others had a trial today before the Council

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 3, 1847

Charles Coulson Rich: Appointed counselor in Salt Lake Stake 3 October 1847.

[source: Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]
[Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]

Mormon History, Oct 3, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 3d Sunday I left camp as daylight was Appearing in company with Luke Johnson for the purpose of Getting some meat. The wolves that had rent the air through the night with their Howls was dispersing in all directions as we passed along mounted upon our Horses. They were evry size & couler of their race. The beautiful swan in flocks were floating upon the Platt which Aded beauty to the seenery.
We soon saw a large Herd of Buffalo about 6 miles from camp & 2 from the road. We left our Horses & stole upon them the best we could. Their Picket guards were frighted several times. We managed to quell there fears. Their is no well disiplined Army of men that are more particular to have An old experienced guard on a closs look out than A Herd of Buffalo.
By going under A bank we passed there guards & lay conceled untill we were surrounded & the main bodies of them were coming onto us with A Heavy filanxs of Bulls meeting us in the face with Hundreds of cows following in the rear. When they approached within 2 or 3 rods of us we thought it quite time to be up & doing even for our own safety. I had a single load in my rifle & A Brace of Pistols. Br Johnson had a slide of 6 loads in his rifle. We rose. He fired twice. I reserved my fire untill He had discharged his two balls. The whole body broke & run from us. He had killed none.
I fired At a Young cow. Put A Ball through her sholdier But she hobbled over A ridge. Johnson mounted A Horse & followed A little distance after them. I walked over the ridge & shot my wounded Cow through the Hart strings & lungs & she droped dead which was the ownly one we got out of the Herd.
We travled A few miles further & Br A Lyman killed two more & An Antilope all of which was brought into Camp & distributed. Large Herds Came near our Camp in the evening. Distance of the day 9 m.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 03, 1847

The Salt Lake Stake, the first stake in Utah, is organized, with John Smith (an uncle of the Prophet Joseph Smith) as president.

[source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]

Mormon History, Oct 2, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Saturday October 2nd 1847. Sent 5 men out on guard and staid in[.] Saw President about Col Scotts report about seeing so many Indians last Wednesday. He did not believe that he saw any and in fact it was reported by all the guard that those whom he saw were the guard & his hay was set on fire by his own fire. It was the prevailing opinion that he was unusually excited and reported accordingly.
At 2 oclock P. M. the High Council met again for the fifth time to act upon the case of D. Russell & the police.
This tedious investigation was brought to a close to daythe police sustained every charge alleged to him which he also acknowledged before the trial was over. He manifested a stubborn willfull Spirit throughout the whole trial and denied every charge untill it was proven & then admitted it.
The Council decided that he should confess to the police and make them ample satisfaction for all he had done.
His confession consisted simply in saying that he was a young member in the church & did not wish to do any wrong &c.& justifying himself for all he had done.
Whereupon Councillor Harris asked leave to confess for him which was granted and also sanctioned by Russell.
Father Harris then arose and in a most humble and feeling manner confessed that he had willfully lied to injure the police & had lied to hide it in the trial & also that all that had been alleged against him was true and that he had been willfull during the whole trial &c[.] He made quite a long confession all very humble & asked the police to forgive him.
The police accepted the confession of Father Harris after it was sanctioned by Russell who agreed that it was true & such as he wished to make. It was decidedly the best confession I ever heard considering the practice of the confessor
After the case was settled between Russell & the police the council took up the matter as pertained to his being a Councillor. They considered that he was unworthy longer to have a place among them & accordingly droped him from the council. The council then adjourned.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 2, 1847

Charles Coulson Rich: Arrived in Salt Lake Valley 2 October 1847.

[Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]
[source: Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]

Mormon History, Oct 2, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 2d We were informed this morning that Comodore Stockton Had Changed his mind & concluded to go down on the north side of the river. Accordingly He crossed over with his troop. Our company Bought some half a dozen horses of Rashaw. We then started on the Journey.
The Brethren killed A fat Buffalo Cow near the road. We stoped the camp & dressed the meat & took it along which detained the camp some. We travled 13 miles & camped on the Platt.
In the evening Br Markham & myself went out to see if we could get any Buffalo Cows. We saw some of the Brethren dressing a young Bull which they had killed. We could not find any cows And we would not shoot Bulls though they came so near me I Stoned them off with stones. I was quite surprised to see with what expertness the Buffalo would clime the mountains & rocks. They would go in places whare Horned Cattle would never think of going. Some steps in the rocks in their path was more than 6 feet high in perpendicular rocks. We shot a wolf A deer, stoned A Bull & got neither of them & returned to camp. 13 m.

[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Oct 1, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Friday October 1st 1847. Went out on guard with 3 men I & Meeks went to the North[.] It was an unusual hot day[.] We saw sign of Indians. We came in earley[.] Had a guard meeting at my House to settle a question between Gardner & Calkins but did not come to a trial.

[Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Oct 1, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 1st 1847 A warm Plesant day. A good share of the camp are out of Bread & meat & they are preparing to go out to day to surround A Herd of Buffalo & get some cows. A Company of Indians Came over to go to the Hunt & expected us to go with them As we were afterwards informed but we did not go untill several hours afterwards.
We then went in search of them but found neither Indians or dead Buffalo. They came in at night & brought some meat with them for themselves but none for us.
Comodore Stockton Arived at night & camped nearby & said He would like to accompany us.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, September 1847

[Moses Thatcher] They arrived in and settled at Neff's Mill in the Sugar House area, but decided to move on to the California gold fields sometime in 1849. Hezekiah (father of Moses) apparently left for California without Brigham Young's permission, resulting in the family's estrangement from the Mormon Church. September 1847

[source: Utah History Encyclopedia: Moses Thatcher, http://www.uen.org/utah_history_encyclopedia/t/THATCHER%2CMOSES.html]

Mormon History, September 1847

W. W. Phelps buys Ramage press and other needed printing supplies in Boston and ships them (probably by rail, then down the Ohio River and up the Missouri River by steamboat) to Kanesville (Council Bluffs), Iowa, across the river from Winter Quarters. It remains in Kanesville in boxes for nearly two years until it is sent overland in wagons to Salt Lake in April 1849.

[source: Sherry Baker: Mormon Media History Timeline: 1827-2007, http://byustudies.byu.edu/showTitle.aspx?title=7984]

Mormon History, September 1847

The members of the Mormon Battalion who had returned to California from the Truckee river were employed by Capt. John A. Sutter, digging mill-races and erecting mills, near the place where Sacramento City now stands.

[source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

Mormon History, Sept. 1847

William E Mclellin: Ordained president over Whitmer's Kirtland branch 8 and William E Mclellin ordained Whitmer as church president Sept. 1847

[source: Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 6, Biographical Sketches of General Officers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]

Mormon History, Sept. 1847

Oliver Cowdery: Invited by Whitmer 8 to be counselor in Church of Christ presidency Sept. 1847

[source: Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 6, Biographical Sketches of General Officers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]

Mormon History, 1847 September

American soldiers led by General Winfield Scott capture Mexico City and end the war.

[Whitney, Helen, Timeline: The Early History of the Mormons, A Frontline and American Experience Co-Production, //www.pbs.org/mormons/timeline/]
[source: Whitney, Helen, Timeline: The Early History of the Mormons, A Frontline and American Experience Co-Production, //www.pbs.org/mormons/timeline/]

Mormon History, Sep 30, 1847. Thursday.

[William Clayton Journal] This day we traveled only 16 1/4 miles, then camped a quarter of a mile East of Rattlesnake Creek on the banks of the river. In this creek there is still a very heavy current of water running. It appears that some of the brethren left their fires burning this morning and the prairie has caught fire and is still burning furiously.

[source: George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]

Mormon History, Sep 30, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Thursday Sept 30th 1847. Went out on guard with 7 men I went North west with 3 or 4 of the guard. While out on the prairie some four or five miles I discovered a smoke to the South towards Belvue whereupon we directed our course in that way for about 4 miles when the guard in that direction gave us the alarm of Indians
We also saw some one whom we supposed to be an indian and as before agreed with prest Cutler in such cases sent in L. H. Calkins to give him notice of what we saw and we proceeded still South for 4 or 5 miles further and waited untill Cutler came with a company of ten or twelve men so we joined them and proceeded towards Belvue several miles & found that the smoke was still a long ways off perhaps near the otto village at the mouth of the platte.
The company went home & I went West among the hills with 2 of the guard in search of indian sign but found none so we came home very late in the evening. It was a very hot day and we had altogether the hardest days ride to day that we had this summer I believe
The excitement was great in town to day and in fact the appearance was that the Indians were in the immediate neighbourhood.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]