A Trip Across the Plains
April 23, 1866
Aug. 25, 1866
John A. McQueen
April 23, 1866
Aug. 25, 1866
John A. McQueen
Authors Note;
John McQueen was a student at Elgin Academy. On his graduation in 1857 he became a teacher for two years. He served in the Civil War with the 15th Ill. Cav. On Muster Out he married Martha Eakin. After the trip described here he returned to Elgin to found McQueen's Station (two miles N.W. of Udina, Ill.) a dairy operation with a stop on the Milwaukee R.R. supplying milk to Chicago Hotels.
Few changes have been made in transcribing this text. In many cases the spelling of towns and rivers can now be corrected but I've chosen not to do this. John used the spelling he was given or deduced and I will respect this. He had been, after all, a school teacher.
Who am I to second guess him.
This little book was found among George S. McQueen's things by Daughter Ruth McQueen Morse. It came to me through Mrs. June Bennett of Knoxville, Ill.
This little book was found among George S. McQueen's things by Daughter Ruth McQueen Morse. It came to me through Mrs. June Bennett of Knoxville, Ill.
Kenneth L. Gough
Bloom, Apr 23, 1866
Monday. Staid at Uncle Mac's with Jackson. A large crowd of friends and relatives came to bid us farewell. Left home about 12 o'clock. Hard parting with those we love. Arrived at Geo Hunters early in afternoon. Jim H., G. H., W. G., M. & G. W. McQueen & several others came with us. Set up our tent to let our friends have the pleasure of getting in it.
Drove 8 miles to-day.
Apr 24
Started from G. Hunters about 9 o'clock. Passed Joliet 6 miles making 24 miles to-day. Mules a little tired, find friends every where.
Grinton Mills
Troy
Dupage Creek
Shepleys all night.
Apr 25
Started from Shapleys or town of Troy about 9 o'clock. Passed thru Channahon about 12 o'clock.
Passed Morris about 3 o'clock
Canal 5 times to-day. Rained last night. Roads good. Traveled about 23 miles to-day. Mules a little tired. Followed canal & Dupage river all day. Passed Dresden. Paid $4.00 for lodging.
April 26.
Started at 7 o'clock this a.m. Drove on a walk all day. Arrived at Seneca in forenoon. Passed Marseilles about noon. Arrived at Ottawa about 3 o'clock. Road to-day very hilly & terribly stony. Went into camp about 5 1/2 o'clock. Traveled 30 miles to-day. Camped 3 miles East of LaSalle.
Camped on shore of Dupage river. Passed rocks that were 25 to 30 ft. perpendicular. Paid $1.00 for hay last night.
April 27.
Passed thru LaSalle 10.30. Peru 11 o'clock. Better looking country that that we passed thru yesterday. Camped 14 miles west of LaSalle; 6 miles East of Princeton.
Drove 18 miles to-day. Paid 35 cts for Hungarian Hay.
April 28.
Arrived in Princeton early in forenoon. Passed Wyanel about noon. Arrived in Sheffield about 3.30 o'clock. Camped 6 miles West of Sheffield.
Traveled about 25 miles to-day. Camped for Sabbath. Mrs. Durns yard. A splendid day.
Paid 60 cts for hay.
April 30.
Left Camp this AM. about 7 o'clock. Passed thru Genesseo about 2 o'clock. Went into camp about 4.30.
Rained in afternoon. Very disagreeable traveling.
Traveled 27 miles to-day
Paid 75 cts for hay
Paid $2.00 for hay on Sabbath.
May 1.
Left camp about 7 o'clock. Passed thru Moline about 10 o'clock. Then to Rock Island. Then cross the river on a steam ferry. Landed in Davenport, Ia. Traveled on about 6 miles. Then camped about 6.3 o'clock. Paid $3.50 for crossing the river. Traveled about 25 miles to-day. Very cold day. Very poor hilly country from Rock Island & 20 miles East. Beautiful country West of Davenport. Wttawa & Princeton prettiest towns we have passed.
May 2.
Left Camp 7.45 A.M. Passed thru some splendid country to-day. Beautiful farming land went into camp about 5.30. Traveled 28 miles Paid 40 cts for hay. Passed no small villages to-day.
May 3.
Left camp 7.45. Passed thru Tripton about 9 o'clock. Crossed Cedar River on a ferry about noon. Cost $2.10. Passed some barren country to-day. Hilly & scrubby. Camped 3 miles east of Iowa city. Traveled 25 miles to-day. Paid 60 cts for hay.
May 4.
Left camp 7 o'[clock. Passed thru Iowa city about 9 o'clock. Country just middling to-day. Passed thru Homestead about 3 o'clock-A small town on the Mississippi & Missouri Rivers. 20 miles east of Marengo. Traveled 26 miles to-day. Paid 50 cts for hay.
Camped about 6.30 o'clock. 23 miles West of Iowa city.
May 5.
Left camp about 6.45. Passed thru Marengo to-day, the only town to-day. camped 1 mile East of Brookyn - 75 miles East of Desmoines. Camped in the woods.
May 7.
Left camp about 7 o'clock. Passed thru Brooklyn about 7.30. Very hilly country. Passed thru Grimwell at 12 o'clock. Quite a little town. Traveled about 30 miles to-day. Got chains fixed at Brooklyn. Paid $1.00. All hills and valleys to-day. Saw snakes to-day from 7-9 ft. long. Paid $2.00 for hay during Sabbath. 10 cts a quart for milk.
May 8.
Left camp about 9 o'clock passed thru Newton 11 o'clock. Very hilly country. Not 1/20 of the country we passed thru to-day settled.
Paid $1.00 for hay
Poor hay
Camped about 7 o'clock
Traveled 30 miles to-day. Camped 12 miles East of Desmoines.
May 9.
Left camp at 7 o'clock. Arrived in DesMoines about 11 o'clock. Met several stages. Roads good to-day. Paid 50 cts for hay. Traveled 24 miles. Art Jackies tongue nearly off.
Passed 17 yoked oxen on 5 wagons. Road full of movers.
40 team to-day is the average of teams passing each day.
Thurs.
May 31.
Left Camp 5.45 A.M. Passed lots of springs that run from the Bluffs. Crossed quite a lot of streams. Rattlesnake Creek, Ashhallon, etc. Traded Kate to a mover for a riding pony. He saves us $40 to book.
Met a train from Salt Lake City. 100 men in it nearly all movers.
Fri
June 1.
Left camp at 6 o'clock. Saddled my pony. Rode about 3 hrs. Little bugs & flies bit me so I left the pony. I like it very well. Beautiful day. Drove until a little after 2 o'clock. Not a stick of timber nor willow to be seen. Used weeks. Camped on the Platte. Crossed only 1 little stream to-day.
Can see Chimney rock by going about 1 mile to the high bluffs.
Sat.
June 2.
Left camp at 6 o'clock. Camped about 2. Camped opposite Castle Rock in sight of Chimney Rock on the shores of the Platte. Saw quite a number of Indians say about 30 or 40. Judd & I waded the Platte to 4 Islands for wood or brush. Rode the pony nearly all day - rode him to the highest bluff on road to-day. Saw Chimney Rock.
Sunday
June 3.
On the march at 6 o'clock. Passed Chimney rock in afternoon. Good road to-day. One of Murray's team got stuck. We dug it out. Alkali thick enough on the ground to be shoveled. Grass very good. Camped opposit Court House Rock a very large rock - covers they say 1/2 section of ground. Camped at 2 o'clock. My head neck & ears sore on acc't of gnats & sand flies.
Did not ride much to-day. Head wind very disagreeable on acc't of dust.
Mon.
June 4.
Left camp as usual. Drove about 3 hours. A very heavy rain & hail shower came up, the heaviest I ever saw. Corralled in the heaviest of it. I stood out in all of it or the heaviest of it. Continued raining until about 10 o'clock. Camped here for the night. A cold night. We got the boys stove & put in the tent. Grass not very good.
Tues.
June 5.
On the march at 6 o'clock. Quite cold. Rob, Jackson, Pa & UI were all walking about 9 o'clock. Willie driving Robs tem. Walter trying to get out of the wagon. Fell under wheel breaking left thigh. Father, Mathew, Walter & I drove right thru to Fort Laraime without feeding - 50 miles. I rode the pony. Very tired. Paid $5.00 to cross & recross the river.
The doctor set Walters leg. Indians very plenty here. Wind veryt high.
Wed.
June 6.
Laid in the fort til 3 o'clock.
No grass. The mules & pony have had nothing but a little oats. I took them out about a mile for grass - but none. Mother slept in the Stewards rooms. Pa sat up. I slept in the buggie. Mules have had no grass since yesterday morning til this eve. Pa, Ma & Walter staid in the fort. Pa drove the buggy down to the ferry. He did not cross.
I joined the train again camped 3 miles from Fort Laramie.
Thurs.
June 7.
Rob went ahead on the pony. Found an Oregon man.
Jackson & I attended to the mules. Left camp at 6 o'clock. Traveled about 4 miles. The train went into camp. We damped with the Oregon man. Mules resting all day. To-days drive was on the Black Hills or the beginning of them.
Fri.
June 8.
Very heavy wind and rain last night. Laid in camp all day about 7 miles west of Fort Laramie. Nice camping ground. Put on 4 or 5 shoes on the mules. Rob went down to the fort for Pa. He did not come but Rob talked with him. Rob stood guard the last part of the night.
Sat
June 9.
Laid in camp all day. Did nothing. Intended moving about 2 miles farther up the river for better grass. But did not go. Rob went to fort again. Pa, Mam & Walter came. Walter as well as expected. Pa bot 2 buffalo robes.
Sun
June 10.
Drizzly & raining in forenoon. Left camp about 7 A.M. Traveled about 2 m. west for better grass. Grass better here. Plenty of wood & water near. Shady green trees close by. Was out in all the rain to-day. Legs wet thru. No Oregon train yet.
Very warm.
Mon.
June 11.
Left camp 6 o'clock.
H. Aury traveled with us ahead of the Ox train. Made about 12 m. to-day. Took the mules 1/2 m. South for grass. They took out a tent & 6 of them staid out there all night.
Roads very, very rocky & hilly. Hard on wagons.
Tues.
June 12.
On the march 10.30. Traveled 9 miles to-day. Camped by a spring. Took our stock 1 mile East of the Bluffs for grass. Bunch grass tip top. 6 of us took our some 9 miles & slept on the ground with the heavens for a covering. 2 changes. I was on til 10 o'clock. Rob on the last part. Mules feel good. Roads not so very stony but rolling.
Wed.
June 13
On the move 5.30 - an early start. Came ahead of the Ox team with - one wagon. Very heavy wind & cold. I ride the pony all the time. Roads a little sandy. Other wise very good. Traveled only 18 miles to-day. Mules doing well. Have not fed grain for 2 days - for they have done very little lately. Grass not very good to-night.
Thurs
June 14
Did not travel far to-day. Camped about 11 o'clock for the night. The Oregon train came up. Passed the ferry West of Fort Laramie about 50 or 60 miles. I went down to the ferry.
Fri.
June 15
On the march early in the morning. Joined the Oregon train. Aury left us. A long days drive on very hilly rolling land. Little mountains. Camped a little distance from the river. Very poor grass, went to bed at 10.30. Elected a new Capt. Capt. Smith. Ass't Stewart Eakin Jr. Camped about 6.30 o'clock.
Sat.
June 16
Up this A.M. 3.30. Took the mules out to grass. Left camp 7.30. Passed the cut of road to Montana about 9.30. Cap't & I went ahead. Camped on a high Bluff a good way from water. Grass good. Camped for Sabbath.
Sun.
June 17
Laid over 1 day. Good feed. On guard last part of night.
Mon
June 18.
Left Camp at 7 o'clock. Marched slowly. Very warm day. Road sandy. Did not sleep 1 wink last night. A little rain with heavy wind. Cap't Smith shot an antelope. He shared all round. Father shot a sage hen camped on the Platte about 4 o'clock.
Tues.
June 19
On the march at 7 o'clock. Passed the Platte bridge in afternoon. Camped 1 mile West of the bridge. Road hilly & sandy.
Wed.
June 20.
Left camp after waiting for a train from the other side at 12 o'clock. Left the Platte River about 4 o'clock. Camped without water. Went down to fort with - Cap't. Crossed the bridge on fort. Roads rocky, hilly and steep.
Thurs.
June 21
Left camp at 6 o'clock. Hunting for water. Came across water about 9 o'clock. 13 wagons left on & horse Oregon & California train. Alkali springs. Passed thru Rocky Avenue. I went ahead to find a camping ground. Camped at 5 o'clock on Sage Creek. Left the other train a good ways behind.
Fri
June 22.
On the march at 7 o'clock. Worked the pony in forenoon. I rode Jack. Arrived at 11 o'clock. Fed at noon beside Independence Rock. I went up on it. A very large rock. Crossed the Bridge 10.30. Paid $3.00 for crossing. Camped 1 mile W. of Devils Gate - 8 miles W. of the bridge. Did not feel very well.
Sat.
June 23.
To months ago to-day we started. On the travel at 7. Road the pony all day. Very windy & dusty. Traveled only 3 hours on acc't of high wind. Mountainous country.
Sun.
June 24.
Laid over all day on Sweet water. I forded the river on old Nell. Went over to the Bluffs or Rocks. Brot home a load of wood. 2 antelopes killed.
June 25
Mon.
Left camp at 6.30 o'clock. Good roads until we passed the fort or ranch. After tat very sandy & hilly. Camped in plain sight of the Rocky Mrs. Can see any am't of snow on them. Camped without water.
Tues.
June 26.
On the move at 7 o'clock. came to no water till noon. Then came across springs. This is the first since 4 o'clock yesterday. Grass not very good. Beautiful day. Mosquitoes very bad. Roads mountainous. Another antelope Killed. Cap't gave me charge of the guard.
Wed
June 27.
On the march at 7. Traveled till 2 o'clock before we came to water. Arrived on Sweet - water at 6 o'clock. Camped on it for the night. No grass. Traveled 2 days without seeing Sweet water.
Thurs.
June 28.
Left camp at 6 o'clock. Stock had no feed this morning. Passed thru South Pass about 10 o'clock. Camped for noon a little west of the pass. Camped without water. Came across a splendid creek for camping. Grass very poor.
Fri.
June 29.
Left camp at 7 A.M. Made a good fore noon drive. Camped on very good grass - the first since we passed South Pass. Splendid Roads & splendid weather. Crossed Little Sandy River. Middling deep fording. Felt pretty well to-day. Camped on the little sandy River. Good grass close by a fort. Pa pulled a tooth for the operator.
Sat.
June 30.
On the move at 7 o'clock. Came to the Big Sandy River about 9.30. Deep fording. Camp 1 mile W. of River for noon. Grass good. Roads good. Weather good. Camped for night on Big Sandy R.
No grass.
Sun.
July 1
Left camp at 8 o'clock. Traveled about 8 miles. Camped on the banks of the Big Sandy River. Good grass north of the road. Camped about 10 o'clock for the day.
Mon.
July 2.
On the march about 7 o'clock. Traveled about 10 miles then arrived at the ferry on Green River. It is higher that is has been for 4 years. Took about 2 hrs. to cross. Have turned to the night. Not going by Fort Bridger. Going across to Soda Springs. CAmped on Green River 5 miles above the ferry. A Cal. train camped close by.
Tues.
July 3.
Left camp 6.30 A.M. Came to a small stream from the mountains. Watered to stock here.
Made a good drive to-day. Camped without water about 5 miles West of the little creek. Very warm day. Roads middling.
July 4.
Wed.
Left camp at 7 A.M. Found water about noon. Went a little south of the road - for snow the first. Went over some awful mountian. Camped on the top of a high Mountain - a big hard days work. Thus I spent my 4th. Rode the pony all day. Camped about 5 miles from Hams Fork.
Thurs.
July 5.
On the march at 7 o'clock. Came down some very steep hills. Arrived at Hams Fork about 9 P.M. Got the last wagon & horses at dark. This day never to be forgotten. Took all day to cross & had a beg time.
Fri.
July 6.
Laid over all day. Plenty of grass not not of good quality. Beautiful day. Foxes train came up.
Sat.
July 7.
On the tramp 6.30 A.M. Most awful mountains to ascend and descend. Passed thru a nich forest of pine & fir & poplar. Camped 1/2 mile from Pear River. Grass not good. 2 mules sick. Pleasant day.
Sun.
July 8.
Left Camp as usual. Crossed Smiths fork 3 M. north on a bridge. $3.00 a team. Went along Bear R., came to Thompson's fork. $2.00 a team Bridge. After crossing bridge - bad noles & miry.
Mon.
July 9.
On the move as ususal. Came to a settlement to-day - Mormon. Quite large. Camped close by. Grass poor. CAme over 1 awful mountain. Bot cheese .40 cts per lb. Butter .50 cts came pretty nearly getting into a rumpus with them about wood.
Tues.
July 10.
Left camp 7 A.M. CAme to another small settlement. 4 miles. DAmped after drive of 2 miles. Camped by some small springs to the left of the road. Grass good water & wood in plenty.
25 miles to-day.
July 11
Left camp at 6.30. Spent about 2 hours in Soda Springs. Camped for noon. 1 mile west of the city. Not much of a place. Some call it 900 miles to the Dalles yet. Grand-Pa very poorly - very discouraging to us. Camped by a creek about 10 miles west of the Springs. Water & grass in plenty. Plenty of Indians. Road & weather good.
Thurs.
July 12.
On the march as usual. Made a good drive. Camped on excellent grass & water. Had a small shower - Plenty of small streams.
July 13.
Left camp at 5.30 A.M. Made a good forenoon's drive. Paid toll on the toll road. Camped near a swampy creek. Roads in forenoon very hilly - in the afternoon, a valley all the time. Heavy shower in P.M. In sight of Snake River at noon.
Sat.
July 14.
On the move at 6.45 A.M. A freighter camped close by. We have taken the wrong road - Have taken the Montana road. Should have turned to the right after paying toll. A long drive without water. We feel pretty blue to-day - traveling East all day. Roads very dusty. Crossed Snake river on the bridge. Never saw such a current in a river before. Camped close by the bridge. Plenty wood & grass.
Sun.
July 15.
Did not let our mules out to grass. Left camp at 5.30 A.M. Drove within 1/2 mile of Stage station. Pa read a letter from John - Drove 8 or 10 miles & camped for the Sabbath. Grass very good. A ferry at the same place.
Mon.
July 16.
On the move at 7 o'clock. A. Gogne elected Cap't. All sage brush & no grass to-day. Passed another ferry in afternoon - some 20 miles from the other ferry. I went down to the ferry. We should have taken the right hand road. Did not get far out of the road. Camped within about 12 miles of Gibson's ferry. Where we think our mail lies. Good grass. No water.
July 17.
Tues.
Left camp 6.30 A.M. I went ahead on pony. Left 5.30 made trip to Gibson's ferry in 2 hrs. & 1/2. Got our mail. Camped 11 miles West of Gibson's Ferry at Springs. Roads stony. Flies & mosquitos very thick. Very warm.
Wed.
July 18.
Left camp at 4 A.M. Entered a desert of 30 miles. Road very stony & rough. Found water in north side of the Butte. Not enough for our stock. Went on to Lost River 40 miles. From camp without water. Made the trip in 12 1/2 hours. Stock very dry. Cap't Pogne & I went ahead after 1 14 Hr. noon. Quite a novel sight to see the Butte. Guarded stock the last part of night. Lost River in 8 or 10 miles north of the Butte.
Thurs.
July 19.
On the move 5.30 A.M. Drove about 4 of 5 miles & found grass. Staid til 10.30, then drove to the mts. 20 miles. Camped for night. Good grass within 10 ft of camp. No wood. Warm - sultry - very dusty rocky road.
Fri.
July 20.
Left camp at 6.30 A.M. Drove along the Mts. & over some awful ones. The Roughest & rockiest road I ever saw, heard of read of. Camped at Lake Springs. Stock out all night. Made a good day's drive over such roads. Warm day. Met a good many packers going to Blackfoot & Montana. Jackson broke his spreader.
July
21
On the march at 6;30 roads very good. Met several packers going to Blackfoot & Virginia. Camped on a large stream coming from the mountain for Sabbath. Water & grass plenty - wood scarce. Have made over 120 miles in the last four days.
Sun
July 22
Laid over all day. Stock resting well. Camped lose by. Several packers passed to-day. Lots of large fish in this stream. Packers say a good road ahead. Put on 4 mule shoes this A.M. Rested in P.M.
Mon. July 23
On the march 6.30 A.M. Uncle James Jack ever lame. Got kicked on the left fore knee. Roads good. I rode the pony. Crossed Big Wood River about 10 o'clock. Very stony bottom & middling deep. I got in deep places & got wet. 3 months on the road.
Tues.
July 24
Left camp at 7 o'clock. Came over some very good roads. Passed a great many small streams. Grass good. Splendid day to travel. Made a good drive. Camped by a spring. Met a great many packers going to Montana.
Wed.
July 25.
Stock out all night. On the move 6.30 A.M. Ascended & descended a hill - the equal which we have never seen. Very tired walking attending to every load.
Fri.
July 26.
Left camp as usual. Roads mountainous. I drove Rob's tema. Very warm day. Saw oats growing & ripe.
Sat.
July 27.
Left camp at 6 o'clock. Roads middling with teh exception of a few hills - very steep. Arrived at Poise River at 11 o'clock. Forded first branch & camped for noon then concluded to stay for Sabbath Mor. Paid pasturage - 4 teams ferried. Had to buy hay. Took buggy across the other branch to City - quite a nice town.
Sun.
July 29.
Left the Governor's Island about 8 o'clock on acc't of costing too much for grazing. Drovfe to Willow Creek 16 m. West of Borse. Grass only middling.
Mon
July 30
On the move at 7 o'clock. Herd out stock out nearly every night.
Tues.
July 31.
All well & on the move as usual. Crossed Payette R. at 10.30. A beautiful & same as to the ferry. Met a very large pack train & a great many freighters. 10 mules on a wagon. 16 Oxen on a wagon. Came to Snake river again - In afternoon camped on it.
Wed.
Aug. 1.
On the move as usual. Roads very dusty. This the warmest day to me we have had yet. Sweat hard sitting on my seat. Crossed Weiser River about 10 o'clock. Forded it. Camped on Snake river by spring. No grass. Jackson left Mary & May out & they lost themselves. Looked for them til late.
Thurs.
Aug. 2.
I got no sleep worth anything last night. Saddled the pony at 3 o'clock & started East to look for the teams. Found them 6 M. East of camp tired & thin. Got back early. On the move again as usual. Crossed Snake River on Old's ferry about 10 A.M. Traveled along it for 2 M. Camped by a nice spring at 12.30 for night.
Fri.
Aug. 3.
On the move as usual. Roads very good. Awful mountains but a good road cut on the side hills. Camped on a branch of Burnt River. Grass good. Indians stole horses from packers a few days ago. Met 7 pack trains to-day.
Sat.
Aug. 4.
Left camp at 7 o'clock. Came to express ranch in 1/2 hour. Took the right hand road or the new road. Road good. Grass excellent. Water a little scarce in forenoon. Crossed Powder River in afternoon. Camped by a small creek or springs.
Sun.
Aug. 5.
Laid over all day on excellent grass - 2 miles W. from Powder River. A large freight train passed us. The same one we saw in Boise City 1 week ago.
Mon
Aug. 6.
On the move at 6 o'clock. Passed union in Grand Round Valley and left it to the north about 4 or 5 miles. Camped within sight of it. Roads good. Butter 50 cts.
Tues.
Aug. 7
Moving Westward 6.30 A.M. Rode the pony til noon. Arrived at LaGrand at noon. Bot Barley at 2 3/4 a lb. Camped 2 or 3 miles West of the city for noon. Jackson, Calceny & Chan went back to work. Entered the Blue Mts. Roads very rough. Drove all afternoon in a deep, deep canyon by G.R.R. Camped for night in the canyon. Found good grass to the right on the hills.
Wed.
Aug. 8.
Marching at 7. Roads very rough. Very heavy dense forest all the way thru the Mts. about 40 miles. Camped on the top of a Mt. the last hill on the West side. Camped by a spring in sight of Unatilla River. 2 or 3 miles from Crawford Station. Traveled all day in heavy pine timber.
Thurs.
Aug. 9
On the move as usual. Arrived at Crawford's Sta. in an hour. Took the left hand road. Made a good drive to-day. Camped early - across the Creek from a house. Good grass, Plenty of wood & water. Butter 50 cts. Got potatoes etc. Roads good & getting along nicely.
Fri.
Aug. 10.
Marching Westward. Took the Umatilla Road. Struck across the Prairie & found the right road. Road good. Camped in alkali canyon for noon. Camped on Butter Creek. Grass Good.
Sat.
Aug. 11.
On the move as usual. Took a right hand road - a very poor rough road all day. Stock very tired. Camped on Willow Creek. Good grass & a splendid place to camp. Made a good drive to-day. Camped middling late. Get along very well without Jackson.
Sun.
Aug. 12.
Laid over all day. Grass good & a splendid place to camp for Sabbath.
Mon
Aug. 13
On the move at sunrise. Roads good in forenoon. Arrived at Rock Creek at noon. Roads good. Roads very rocky in P.M. Arrived at John Day's river & camped for the night. 30 miles to-day.
Tues.
Aug. 14.
On the move quite early. Forded John Days river. Roads not very good. Rough & Rocky. In a deep canyon all day. Made a short drive & a hard one, hard on teams & wagons. Camp separated 5 M. W. of J. Day's river. Boyne & Smith went to the Dalles. Brooks came with us.
Wed.
Aug. 15.
Left amp in the canyon tolerably early. Road almost impassable. It is so rocky. Came down a very long steep hill before comming to DeShute River. Camped at foot of the hill for night. Grass poor. Bot Oats at 3 cts.
Thurs.
Aug. 16
On the move as usual. Crossed the Bridge after 2 miles of travel. Roads rocky & hilly. Met some Cavalry in the canyon. Immediately after dinner pulled up a long steep hill Billy gave out.
Fri.
Aug. 17.
Left camp at 8 A.M. to give stock time to fill. Entered the Mts at Barlow's Gate at 9 o'clock. Road awful, awful. Rocky & hilly. Traveled about 15 miles in timber Mules very thin. Tied them to trees for the night. Nothing but oats to feed.
Sat.
Aug. 18.
On the move by daylight. Road not so hilly as yesterday. But dreadful rough & rocky. Made a good days drive. Myles stand if very well. Came across some Portland chaps on a burn or excursion trip. Caped beside them for night - 5 miles east of Laurel Mt. Close by Mt. Hood.
Sun
Aug. 19.
On the march quite early. Reached summit about 10 A.M. Road still rough & rocky. Made a very good drive to-day. Nooned at the Mt. House. Camped at the 2n'd house for the night. Grandma fell out of the buggy coming down Laurel Mt. Hurt some.
Mon.
Aug. 20
Beautiful day. Drove to Mt. Lums on drive. Arrived at 2 o'clock. Camped for night. Grass and apples free. 16 miles to-day. Roads just middling. After crossing Bridge Brooks too right we left.
Aug. 21.
Left Camp at Liner's at 9. Mules look well considering. Road very mountanous. Ascend two long hills. Myules tired. Made only 15 miles to-day. Still in timber or heavy forest.
Wed.
Aug. 22.
Left camp at sunrise. Made a good long drive to-day. Passed thru Silverton in evening. Mules tired. Camped by a creek - 2 miles S. of town by Blackenbys.
Thurs.
Aug. 23
Westward bound a little after sunrise. Passed thru Subbity in forenoon. This Jefferson in P.M. Also crossed the St. Arms on a ferry. Made 30 m. to-day. Camped at Knox's Butte. 45 miles from Eugene city. Apples free.
Fri.
Aug. 24.
Up in A.M. at 2. Left camp before daylight. Made 30 m. at noon. Camped 1 mile from Maxwell's ferry. Cross the Wilamette R. 40 miles to-day. Roads excellent. Amp 9 or 10 miles from Uncle Andrews. In timber more or less ever since we struck the Mts.
Sat
Aug. 25.
Not so early on the march. Crossed at Maxwell's ferry. Only got within sight of Eugene. Turned due west. Arrived at Uncle Andrews at 10 o'clock. Fed, watered & turned our mules to grass.
Started at 7 o'clock this a.m. Drove on a walk all day. Arrived at Seneca in forenoon. Passed Marseilles about noon. Arrived at Ottawa about 3 o'clock. Road to-day very hilly & terribly stony. Went into camp about 5 1/2 o'clock. Traveled 30 miles to-day. Camped 3 miles East of LaSalle.
Camped on shore of Dupage river. Passed rocks that were 25 to 30 ft. perpendicular. Paid $1.00 for hay last night.
April 27.
Passed thru LaSalle 10.30. Peru 11 o'clock. Better looking country that that we passed thru yesterday. Camped 14 miles west of LaSalle; 6 miles East of Princeton.
Drove 18 miles to-day. Paid 35 cts for Hungarian Hay.
April 28.
Arrived in Princeton early in forenoon. Passed Wyanel about noon. Arrived in Sheffield about 3.30 o'clock. Camped 6 miles West of Sheffield.
Traveled about 25 miles to-day. Camped for Sabbath. Mrs. Durns yard. A splendid day.
Paid 60 cts for hay.
April 30.
Left Camp this AM. about 7 o'clock. Passed thru Genesseo about 2 o'clock. Went into camp about 4.30.
Rained in afternoon. Very disagreeable traveling.
Traveled 27 miles to-day
Paid 75 cts for hay
Paid $2.00 for hay on Sabbath.
May 1.
Left camp about 7 o'clock. Passed thru Moline about 10 o'clock. Then to Rock Island. Then cross the river on a steam ferry. Landed in Davenport, Ia. Traveled on about 6 miles. Then camped about 6.3 o'clock. Paid $3.50 for crossing the river. Traveled about 25 miles to-day. Very cold day. Very poor hilly country from Rock Island & 20 miles East. Beautiful country West of Davenport. Wttawa & Princeton prettiest towns we have passed.
May 2.
Left Camp 7.45 A.M. Passed thru some splendid country to-day. Beautiful farming land went into camp about 5.30. Traveled 28 miles Paid 40 cts for hay. Passed no small villages to-day.
May 3.
Left camp 7.45. Passed thru Tripton about 9 o'clock. Crossed Cedar River on a ferry about noon. Cost $2.10. Passed some barren country to-day. Hilly & scrubby. Camped 3 miles east of Iowa city. Traveled 25 miles to-day. Paid 60 cts for hay.
May 4.
Left camp 7 o'[clock. Passed thru Iowa city about 9 o'clock. Country just middling to-day. Passed thru Homestead about 3 o'clock-A small town on the Mississippi & Missouri Rivers. 20 miles east of Marengo. Traveled 26 miles to-day. Paid 50 cts for hay.
Camped about 6.30 o'clock. 23 miles West of Iowa city.
May 5.
Left camp about 6.45. Passed thru Marengo to-day, the only town to-day. camped 1 mile East of Brookyn - 75 miles East of Desmoines. Camped in the woods.
May 7.
Left camp about 7 o'clock. Passed thru Brooklyn about 7.30. Very hilly country. Passed thru Grimwell at 12 o'clock. Quite a little town. Traveled about 30 miles to-day. Got chains fixed at Brooklyn. Paid $1.00. All hills and valleys to-day. Saw snakes to-day from 7-9 ft. long. Paid $2.00 for hay during Sabbath. 10 cts a quart for milk.
May 8.
Left camp about 9 o'clock passed thru Newton 11 o'clock. Very hilly country. Not 1/20 of the country we passed thru to-day settled.
Paid $1.00 for hay
Poor hay
Camped about 7 o'clock
Traveled 30 miles to-day. Camped 12 miles East of Desmoines.
May 9.
Left camp at 7 o'clock. Arrived in DesMoines about 11 o'clock. Met several stages. Roads good to-day. Paid 50 cts for hay. Traveled 24 miles. Art Jackies tongue nearly off.
Passed 17 yoked oxen on 5 wagons. Road full of movers.
40 team to-day is the average of teams passing each day.
May
10.
Left
Camp 6.45. Arrived in Adel about 9.30. Got tires set on little
wagon. Passed thru Mornisburg in afternoon.
Traveled
about 30 miles to-day. Pd. .50 cts for hay corn is worth from 25 to
35. Passed good country to-day. Camped on nice branch of Coon
River.
May
11.
On
the march again at 7 o'clock. Arrived in Dale city. Passed
several teams to-day.
Very
broken & hilly land. Hardly any of the land settled. No
timber. Came to running stream for 15 miles.
Traveled
33 miles to-day.
Paid
85 cts for hay.
May
12
On
the march at 8 o'clock. Passed Grove city at 11 o'clock. Hilly,
broken country. Passed Lewis... Camped 1 mile west of Lewis - for
the Sabbath.
Pd
1.45 for Hay - to last until Monday morning. Traveled about 22
miles to-day.
My
14.
On
the march at 7 o'clock.
Not
a village on our march to-day. Nothing but rolling prairie. Traveled 45 miles to-day. Pd. 60 cts for hay. Got into camp about
8 o'clock got chores done at 11 o'clock.
Camped
in a barn or cowyard within 4 1/2 miles of Council Bluffs.
May
15
Left
camp 8.45.
Arrived
in C. Bluffs at 10. Left C. B. at 1 P.M. Bought 35 bush of Oats
at 32 1/2. Crossed the Missouri River 1/2 past 2. Crossed on the
ferry with Bill Sherman.
Camped
at 5.30 Traveled only about 12 miles to-day. Paid $2.00 for hay. Camped 4 miles West of Omaha.
May
16.
Left
camp about 7. Came to the level prairie to-day. Struck the Platte
about noon. Camped by a pond at the side of the road.
Paid
nothing for hay & milk. Traveled about 30 miles to-day.
May
17.
On
the march 7.10 A.M. Level country - a little sandy. Came close to
the river to-day. Very muddy water. Camped beside the Platte
to-night, also by the side of the U.P.R.R. Mules at grass for the
second night. Bot 20 bu. of ear corn at .50 cts per. bu. Have
good roads on Morn. Traveled about 25 miles to-day. Lots of
Montana teams. Camped about 13 m. East of Schun Ferry.
May
18.
Left
Camp at 7 o'clock. Fed grass at noon. Crossed Loop Fork River at
5 P.M. Pd. 4.50 for crossing on the pontoon bridge. Camped one
mile west of Loop Fork River. Better grass Mis side of the river. Traveled about 22 miles to-day.
May
19
On
the march at 6 o'clock. Fed 2 hours at noon. Camped 26 miles West
of Loop Fork River.
Making
25 miles to-day. Roads very good - grass good. Country about as
well settled here in Nebraska as in Western pt. of Iowa.
Sabbath
May
20.
Rested
in fore - noon. Drove about 14 miles in afternoon. Camped on
banks of the Platte.
May
21
On
the march at 6 o'clock. Fed on buffalo grass last night. Fed
grass 1 1/2 hours at noon. Grass good. Drove about 30 miles
to-day. Country settled very well. Mostly mud houses. 20 teams
in a string to-day. All mule teams - mostly 4 mules to each.
Crossed
Wood River in evening - not much of a river. Very dry weather. Roads good. A little sandy.
May
22.
Very
heavy thunder shower last night. Pa Ma Grandma & all the
children got wet. Tent blew down. Rob & I sat in the buggie
all night. No sleep. Started on our march 8.30. Camped for
night at 12 o'clock. Bed clothes all wet. Roads a little soft. Did not travel far to-day. Very heavy hail last night. Folks all
went to Robs wagon after getting wet.
May
23.
Left
camp 5.45 A.M. Passed Kearney about noon. Came up to a Montanna
trin in evening. Passed Kearny 5 1/2 mi. N. of the river. River 3
miles wide. Could not see the fort. Entered the Plains alone. Did not get our mail. Cannot tell exactly how many miles a day we
are traveling.
May
24.
On
the march 10 min. to 6. 21 wagons - 17 4 mule teams. We have not
joined the train yet. Capt. Murry traveled a long time with us
to-day. Traveled until 2.30 without meeting water. Camped at the
first water we came to & that was the Platte River. Came across
20 Oregon wagons this eve. Was within a nice gunshot of 4
antelopes. Saw a prairie dog. Rode well all day.
At
6 o'clock there were 75 wagons in camp. Have no idea how many
teams.
Thurs.
May 31.
Left Camp 5.45 A.M. Passed lots of springs that run from the Bluffs. Crossed quite a lot of streams. Rattlesnake Creek, Ashhallon, etc. Traded Kate to a mover for a riding pony. He saves us $40 to book.
Met a train from Salt Lake City. 100 men in it nearly all movers.
Fri
June 1.
Left camp at 6 o'clock. Saddled my pony. Rode about 3 hrs. Little bugs & flies bit me so I left the pony. I like it very well. Beautiful day. Drove until a little after 2 o'clock. Not a stick of timber nor willow to be seen. Used weeks. Camped on the Platte. Crossed only 1 little stream to-day.
Can see Chimney rock by going about 1 mile to the high bluffs.
Sat.
June 2.
Left camp at 6 o'clock. Camped about 2. Camped opposite Castle Rock in sight of Chimney Rock on the shores of the Platte. Saw quite a number of Indians say about 30 or 40. Judd & I waded the Platte to 4 Islands for wood or brush. Rode the pony nearly all day - rode him to the highest bluff on road to-day. Saw Chimney Rock.
June 3.
On the march at 6 o'clock. Passed Chimney rock in afternoon. Good road to-day. One of Murray's team got stuck. We dug it out. Alkali thick enough on the ground to be shoveled. Grass very good. Camped opposit Court House Rock a very large rock - covers they say 1/2 section of ground. Camped at 2 o'clock. My head neck & ears sore on acc't of gnats & sand flies.
Did not ride much to-day. Head wind very disagreeable on acc't of dust.
Mon.
June 4.
Left camp as usual. Drove about 3 hours. A very heavy rain & hail shower came up, the heaviest I ever saw. Corralled in the heaviest of it. I stood out in all of it or the heaviest of it. Continued raining until about 10 o'clock. Camped here for the night. A cold night. We got the boys stove & put in the tent. Grass not very good.
Tues.
June 5.
On the march at 6 o'clock. Quite cold. Rob, Jackson, Pa & UI were all walking about 9 o'clock. Willie driving Robs tem. Walter trying to get out of the wagon. Fell under wheel breaking left thigh. Father, Mathew, Walter & I drove right thru to Fort Laraime without feeding - 50 miles. I rode the pony. Very tired. Paid $5.00 to cross & recross the river.
The doctor set Walters leg. Indians very plenty here. Wind veryt high.
Wed.
June 6.
Laid in the fort til 3 o'clock.
No grass. The mules & pony have had nothing but a little oats. I took them out about a mile for grass - but none. Mother slept in the Stewards rooms. Pa sat up. I slept in the buggie. Mules have had no grass since yesterday morning til this eve. Pa, Ma & Walter staid in the fort. Pa drove the buggy down to the ferry. He did not cross.
I joined the train again camped 3 miles from Fort Laramie.
Thurs.
June 7.
Rob went ahead on the pony. Found an Oregon man.
Jackson & I attended to the mules. Left camp at 6 o'clock. Traveled about 4 miles. The train went into camp. We damped with the Oregon man. Mules resting all day. To-days drive was on the Black Hills or the beginning of them.
Fri.
June 8.
Very heavy wind and rain last night. Laid in camp all day about 7 miles west of Fort Laramie. Nice camping ground. Put on 4 or 5 shoes on the mules. Rob went down to the fort for Pa. He did not come but Rob talked with him. Rob stood guard the last part of the night.
Sat
June 9.
Laid in camp all day. Did nothing. Intended moving about 2 miles farther up the river for better grass. But did not go. Rob went to fort again. Pa, Mam & Walter came. Walter as well as expected. Pa bot 2 buffalo robes.
Sun
June 10.
Drizzly & raining in forenoon. Left camp about 7 A.M. Traveled about 2 m. west for better grass. Grass better here. Plenty of wood & water near. Shady green trees close by. Was out in all the rain to-day. Legs wet thru. No Oregon train yet.
Very warm.
Mon.
June 11.
Left camp 6 o'clock.
H. Aury traveled with us ahead of the Ox train. Made about 12 m. to-day. Took the mules 1/2 m. South for grass. They took out a tent & 6 of them staid out there all night.
Roads very, very rocky & hilly. Hard on wagons.
Tues.
June 12.
On the march 10.30. Traveled 9 miles to-day. Camped by a spring. Took our stock 1 mile East of the Bluffs for grass. Bunch grass tip top. 6 of us took our some 9 miles & slept on the ground with the heavens for a covering. 2 changes. I was on til 10 o'clock. Rob on the last part. Mules feel good. Roads not so very stony but rolling.
Wed.
June 13
On the move 5.30 - an early start. Came ahead of the Ox team with - one wagon. Very heavy wind & cold. I ride the pony all the time. Roads a little sandy. Other wise very good. Traveled only 18 miles to-day. Mules doing well. Have not fed grain for 2 days - for they have done very little lately. Grass not very good to-night.
Thurs
June 14
Did not travel far to-day. Camped about 11 o'clock for the night. The Oregon train came up. Passed the ferry West of Fort Laramie about 50 or 60 miles. I went down to the ferry.
Fri.
June 15
On the march early in the morning. Joined the Oregon train. Aury left us. A long days drive on very hilly rolling land. Little mountains. Camped a little distance from the river. Very poor grass, went to bed at 10.30. Elected a new Capt. Capt. Smith. Ass't Stewart Eakin Jr. Camped about 6.30 o'clock.
Sat.
June 16
Up this A.M. 3.30. Took the mules out to grass. Left camp 7.30. Passed the cut of road to Montana about 9.30. Cap't & I went ahead. Camped on a high Bluff a good way from water. Grass good. Camped for Sabbath.
Sun.
June 17
Laid over 1 day. Good feed. On guard last part of night.
Mon
June 18.
Left Camp at 7 o'clock. Marched slowly. Very warm day. Road sandy. Did not sleep 1 wink last night. A little rain with heavy wind. Cap't Smith shot an antelope. He shared all round. Father shot a sage hen camped on the Platte about 4 o'clock.
Tues.
June 19
On the march at 7 o'clock. Passed the Platte bridge in afternoon. Camped 1 mile West of the bridge. Road hilly & sandy.
Wed.
June 20.
Left camp after waiting for a train from the other side at 12 o'clock. Left the Platte River about 4 o'clock. Camped without water. Went down to fort with - Cap't. Crossed the bridge on fort. Roads rocky, hilly and steep.
Thurs.
June 21
Left camp at 6 o'clock. Hunting for water. Came across water about 9 o'clock. 13 wagons left on & horse Oregon & California train. Alkali springs. Passed thru Rocky Avenue. I went ahead to find a camping ground. Camped at 5 o'clock on Sage Creek. Left the other train a good ways behind.
Fri
June 22.
On the march at 7 o'clock. Worked the pony in forenoon. I rode Jack. Arrived at 11 o'clock. Fed at noon beside Independence Rock. I went up on it. A very large rock. Crossed the Bridge 10.30. Paid $3.00 for crossing. Camped 1 mile W. of Devils Gate - 8 miles W. of the bridge. Did not feel very well.
Sat.
June 23.
To months ago to-day we started. On the travel at 7. Road the pony all day. Very windy & dusty. Traveled only 3 hours on acc't of high wind. Mountainous country.
Sun.
June 24.
Laid over all day on Sweet water. I forded the river on old Nell. Went over to the Bluffs or Rocks. Brot home a load of wood. 2 antelopes killed.
June 25
Mon.
Left camp at 6.30 o'clock. Good roads until we passed the fort or ranch. After tat very sandy & hilly. Camped in plain sight of the Rocky Mrs. Can see any am't of snow on them. Camped without water.
Tues.
June 26.
On the move at 7 o'clock. came to no water till noon. Then came across springs. This is the first since 4 o'clock yesterday. Grass not very good. Beautiful day. Mosquitoes very bad. Roads mountainous. Another antelope Killed. Cap't gave me charge of the guard.
Wed
June 27.
On the march at 7. Traveled till 2 o'clock before we came to water. Arrived on Sweet - water at 6 o'clock. Camped on it for the night. No grass. Traveled 2 days without seeing Sweet water.
Thurs.
June 28.
Left camp at 6 o'clock. Stock had no feed this morning. Passed thru South Pass about 10 o'clock. Camped for noon a little west of the pass. Camped without water. Came across a splendid creek for camping. Grass very poor.
Fri.
June 29.
Left camp at 7 A.M. Made a good fore noon drive. Camped on very good grass - the first since we passed South Pass. Splendid Roads & splendid weather. Crossed Little Sandy River. Middling deep fording. Felt pretty well to-day. Camped on the little sandy River. Good grass close by a fort. Pa pulled a tooth for the operator.
Sat.
June 30.
On the move at 7 o'clock. Came to the Big Sandy River about 9.30. Deep fording. Camp 1 mile W. of River for noon. Grass good. Roads good. Weather good. Camped for night on Big Sandy R.
No grass.
Sun.
July 1
Left camp at 8 o'clock. Traveled about 8 miles. Camped on the banks of the Big Sandy River. Good grass north of the road. Camped about 10 o'clock for the day.
Mon.
July 2.
On the march about 7 o'clock. Traveled about 10 miles then arrived at the ferry on Green River. It is higher that is has been for 4 years. Took about 2 hrs. to cross. Have turned to the night. Not going by Fort Bridger. Going across to Soda Springs. CAmped on Green River 5 miles above the ferry. A Cal. train camped close by.
Tues.
July 3.
Left camp 6.30 A.M. Came to a small stream from the mountains. Watered to stock here.
Made a good drive to-day. Camped without water about 5 miles West of the little creek. Very warm day. Roads middling.
July 4.
Wed.
Left camp at 7 A.M. Found water about noon. Went a little south of the road - for snow the first. Went over some awful mountian. Camped on the top of a high Mountain - a big hard days work. Thus I spent my 4th. Rode the pony all day. Camped about 5 miles from Hams Fork.
Thurs.
July 5.
On the march at 7 o'clock. Came down some very steep hills. Arrived at Hams Fork about 9 P.M. Got the last wagon & horses at dark. This day never to be forgotten. Took all day to cross & had a beg time.
Fri.
July 6.
Laid over all day. Plenty of grass not not of good quality. Beautiful day. Foxes train came up.
Sat.
July 7.
On the tramp 6.30 A.M. Most awful mountains to ascend and descend. Passed thru a nich forest of pine & fir & poplar. Camped 1/2 mile from Pear River. Grass not good. 2 mules sick. Pleasant day.
Sun.
July 8.
Left Camp as usual. Crossed Smiths fork 3 M. north on a bridge. $3.00 a team. Went along Bear R., came to Thompson's fork. $2.00 a team Bridge. After crossing bridge - bad noles & miry.
Mon.
July 9.
On the move as ususal. Came to a settlement to-day - Mormon. Quite large. Camped close by. Grass poor. CAme over 1 awful mountain. Bot cheese .40 cts per lb. Butter .50 cts came pretty nearly getting into a rumpus with them about wood.
Tues.
July 10.
Left camp 7 A.M. CAme to another small settlement. 4 miles. DAmped after drive of 2 miles. Camped by some small springs to the left of the road. Grass good water & wood in plenty.
25 miles to-day.
July 11
Left camp at 6.30. Spent about 2 hours in Soda Springs. Camped for noon. 1 mile west of the city. Not much of a place. Some call it 900 miles to the Dalles yet. Grand-Pa very poorly - very discouraging to us. Camped by a creek about 10 miles west of the Springs. Water & grass in plenty. Plenty of Indians. Road & weather good.
Thurs.
July 12.
On the march as usual. Made a good drive. Camped on excellent grass & water. Had a small shower - Plenty of small streams.
July 13.
Left camp at 5.30 A.M. Made a good forenoon's drive. Paid toll on the toll road. Camped near a swampy creek. Roads in forenoon very hilly - in the afternoon, a valley all the time. Heavy shower in P.M. In sight of Snake River at noon.
Sat.
July 14.
On the move at 6.45 A.M. A freighter camped close by. We have taken the wrong road - Have taken the Montana road. Should have turned to the right after paying toll. A long drive without water. We feel pretty blue to-day - traveling East all day. Roads very dusty. Crossed Snake river on the bridge. Never saw such a current in a river before. Camped close by the bridge. Plenty wood & grass.
Sun.
July 15.
Did not let our mules out to grass. Left camp at 5.30 A.M. Drove within 1/2 mile of Stage station. Pa read a letter from John - Drove 8 or 10 miles & camped for the Sabbath. Grass very good. A ferry at the same place.
Mon.
July 16.
On the move at 7 o'clock. A. Gogne elected Cap't. All sage brush & no grass to-day. Passed another ferry in afternoon - some 20 miles from the other ferry. I went down to the ferry. We should have taken the right hand road. Did not get far out of the road. Camped within about 12 miles of Gibson's ferry. Where we think our mail lies. Good grass. No water.
July 17.
Tues.
Left camp 6.30 A.M. I went ahead on pony. Left 5.30 made trip to Gibson's ferry in 2 hrs. & 1/2. Got our mail. Camped 11 miles West of Gibson's Ferry at Springs. Roads stony. Flies & mosquitos very thick. Very warm.
Wed.
July 18.
Left camp at 4 A.M. Entered a desert of 30 miles. Road very stony & rough. Found water in north side of the Butte. Not enough for our stock. Went on to Lost River 40 miles. From camp without water. Made the trip in 12 1/2 hours. Stock very dry. Cap't Pogne & I went ahead after 1 14 Hr. noon. Quite a novel sight to see the Butte. Guarded stock the last part of night. Lost River in 8 or 10 miles north of the Butte.
Thurs.
July 19.
On the move 5.30 A.M. Drove about 4 of 5 miles & found grass. Staid til 10.30, then drove to the mts. 20 miles. Camped for night. Good grass within 10 ft of camp. No wood. Warm - sultry - very dusty rocky road.
Fri.
July 20.
Left camp at 6.30 A.M. Drove along the Mts. & over some awful ones. The Roughest & rockiest road I ever saw, heard of read of. Camped at Lake Springs. Stock out all night. Made a good day's drive over such roads. Warm day. Met a good many packers going to Blackfoot & Montana. Jackson broke his spreader.
July
21
On the march at 6;30 roads very good. Met several packers going to Blackfoot & Virginia. Camped on a large stream coming from the mountain for Sabbath. Water & grass plenty - wood scarce. Have made over 120 miles in the last four days.
Sun
July 22
Laid over all day. Stock resting well. Camped lose by. Several packers passed to-day. Lots of large fish in this stream. Packers say a good road ahead. Put on 4 mule shoes this A.M. Rested in P.M.
Mon. July 23
On the march 6.30 A.M. Uncle James Jack ever lame. Got kicked on the left fore knee. Roads good. I rode the pony. Crossed Big Wood River about 10 o'clock. Very stony bottom & middling deep. I got in deep places & got wet. 3 months on the road.
Tues.
July 24
Left camp at 7 o'clock. Came over some very good roads. Passed a great many small streams. Grass good. Splendid day to travel. Made a good drive. Camped by a spring. Met a great many packers going to Montana.
Wed.
July 25.
Stock out all night. On the move 6.30 A.M. Ascended & descended a hill - the equal which we have never seen. Very tired walking attending to every load.
Fri.
July 26.
Left camp as usual. Roads mountainous. I drove Rob's tema. Very warm day. Saw oats growing & ripe.
Sat.
July 27.
Left camp at 6 o'clock. Roads middling with teh exception of a few hills - very steep. Arrived at Poise River at 11 o'clock. Forded first branch & camped for noon then concluded to stay for Sabbath Mor. Paid pasturage - 4 teams ferried. Had to buy hay. Took buggy across the other branch to City - quite a nice town.
Sun.
July 29.
Left the Governor's Island about 8 o'clock on acc't of costing too much for grazing. Drovfe to Willow Creek 16 m. West of Borse. Grass only middling.
Mon
July 30
On the move at 7 o'clock. Herd out stock out nearly every night.
Tues.
July 31.
All well & on the move as usual. Crossed Payette R. at 10.30. A beautiful & same as to the ferry. Met a very large pack train & a great many freighters. 10 mules on a wagon. 16 Oxen on a wagon. Came to Snake river again - In afternoon camped on it.
Wed.
Aug. 1.
On the move as usual. Roads very dusty. This the warmest day to me we have had yet. Sweat hard sitting on my seat. Crossed Weiser River about 10 o'clock. Forded it. Camped on Snake river by spring. No grass. Jackson left Mary & May out & they lost themselves. Looked for them til late.
Thurs.
Aug. 2.
I got no sleep worth anything last night. Saddled the pony at 3 o'clock & started East to look for the teams. Found them 6 M. East of camp tired & thin. Got back early. On the move again as usual. Crossed Snake River on Old's ferry about 10 A.M. Traveled along it for 2 M. Camped by a nice spring at 12.30 for night.
Fri.
Aug. 3.
On the move as usual. Roads very good. Awful mountains but a good road cut on the side hills. Camped on a branch of Burnt River. Grass good. Indians stole horses from packers a few days ago. Met 7 pack trains to-day.
Sat.
Aug. 4.
Left camp at 7 o'clock. Came to express ranch in 1/2 hour. Took the right hand road or the new road. Road good. Grass excellent. Water a little scarce in forenoon. Crossed Powder River in afternoon. Camped by a small creek or springs.
Sun.
Aug. 5.
Laid over all day on excellent grass - 2 miles W. from Powder River. A large freight train passed us. The same one we saw in Boise City 1 week ago.
Mon
Aug. 6.
On the move at 6 o'clock. Passed union in Grand Round Valley and left it to the north about 4 or 5 miles. Camped within sight of it. Roads good. Butter 50 cts.
Tues.
Aug. 7
Moving Westward 6.30 A.M. Rode the pony til noon. Arrived at LaGrand at noon. Bot Barley at 2 3/4 a lb. Camped 2 or 3 miles West of the city for noon. Jackson, Calceny & Chan went back to work. Entered the Blue Mts. Roads very rough. Drove all afternoon in a deep, deep canyon by G.R.R. Camped for night in the canyon. Found good grass to the right on the hills.
Wed.
Aug. 8.
Marching at 7. Roads very rough. Very heavy dense forest all the way thru the Mts. about 40 miles. Camped on the top of a Mt. the last hill on the West side. Camped by a spring in sight of Unatilla River. 2 or 3 miles from Crawford Station. Traveled all day in heavy pine timber.
Thurs.
Aug. 9
On the move as usual. Arrived at Crawford's Sta. in an hour. Took the left hand road. Made a good drive to-day. Camped early - across the Creek from a house. Good grass, Plenty of wood & water. Butter 50 cts. Got potatoes etc. Roads good & getting along nicely.
Fri.
Aug. 10.
Marching Westward. Took the Umatilla Road. Struck across the Prairie & found the right road. Road good. Camped in alkali canyon for noon. Camped on Butter Creek. Grass Good.
Sat.
Aug. 11.
On the move as usual. Took a right hand road - a very poor rough road all day. Stock very tired. Camped on Willow Creek. Good grass & a splendid place to camp. Made a good drive to-day. Camped middling late. Get along very well without Jackson.
Sun.
Aug. 12.
Laid over all day. Grass good & a splendid place to camp for Sabbath.
Mon
Aug. 13
On the move at sunrise. Roads good in forenoon. Arrived at Rock Creek at noon. Roads good. Roads very rocky in P.M. Arrived at John Day's river & camped for the night. 30 miles to-day.
Tues.
Aug. 14.
On the move quite early. Forded John Days river. Roads not very good. Rough & Rocky. In a deep canyon all day. Made a short drive & a hard one, hard on teams & wagons. Camp separated 5 M. W. of J. Day's river. Boyne & Smith went to the Dalles. Brooks came with us.
Wed.
Aug. 15.
Left amp in the canyon tolerably early. Road almost impassable. It is so rocky. Came down a very long steep hill before comming to DeShute River. Camped at foot of the hill for night. Grass poor. Bot Oats at 3 cts.
Thurs.
Aug. 16
On the move as usual. Crossed the Bridge after 2 miles of travel. Roads rocky & hilly. Met some Cavalry in the canyon. Immediately after dinner pulled up a long steep hill Billy gave out.
Fri.
Aug. 17.
Left camp at 8 A.M. to give stock time to fill. Entered the Mts at Barlow's Gate at 9 o'clock. Road awful, awful. Rocky & hilly. Traveled about 15 miles in timber Mules very thin. Tied them to trees for the night. Nothing but oats to feed.
Sat.
Aug. 18.
On the move by daylight. Road not so hilly as yesterday. But dreadful rough & rocky. Made a good days drive. Myles stand if very well. Came across some Portland chaps on a burn or excursion trip. Caped beside them for night - 5 miles east of Laurel Mt. Close by Mt. Hood.
Sun
Aug. 19.
On the march quite early. Reached summit about 10 A.M. Road still rough & rocky. Made a very good drive to-day. Nooned at the Mt. House. Camped at the 2n'd house for the night. Grandma fell out of the buggy coming down Laurel Mt. Hurt some.
Mon.
Aug. 20
Beautiful day. Drove to Mt. Lums on drive. Arrived at 2 o'clock. Camped for night. Grass and apples free. 16 miles to-day. Roads just middling. After crossing Bridge Brooks too right we left.
Aug. 21.
Left Camp at Liner's at 9. Mules look well considering. Road very mountanous. Ascend two long hills. Myules tired. Made only 15 miles to-day. Still in timber or heavy forest.
Wed.
Aug. 22.
Left camp at sunrise. Made a good long drive to-day. Passed thru Silverton in evening. Mules tired. Camped by a creek - 2 miles S. of town by Blackenbys.
Thurs.
Aug. 23
Westward bound a little after sunrise. Passed thru Subbity in forenoon. This Jefferson in P.M. Also crossed the St. Arms on a ferry. Made 30 m. to-day. Camped at Knox's Butte. 45 miles from Eugene city. Apples free.
Fri.
Aug. 24.
Up in A.M. at 2. Left camp before daylight. Made 30 m. at noon. Camped 1 mile from Maxwell's ferry. Cross the Wilamette R. 40 miles to-day. Roads excellent. Amp 9 or 10 miles from Uncle Andrews. In timber more or less ever since we struck the Mts.
Sat
Aug. 25.
Not so early on the march. Crossed at Maxwell's ferry. Only got within sight of Eugene. Turned due west. Arrived at Uncle Andrews at 10 o'clock. Fed, watered & turned our mules to grass.
