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 A Mormon handcart company under the leadership of Edward Martin sought shelter from an early winter blizzard in a small cove in the flank of the Sweetwater Rocks about two miles west of Devil’s Gate. The Martin Handcart Company, the last handcart expedition to attempt the Trail in 1856, forded the North Platte River near Red Buttes on October 19 and fought snow, wind and sub-zero temperatures to reach this place in early November. Rescuers sent from Salt Lake City found the company, “in perishing condition.” The camp grounds became grave yards as the Martin Company buried their dead. Perhaps as many as 145 of the 576 members of the company froze or starved to death. (Access from the Sun Ranch at Devils Gate. Hiking is required with special consideration for handicapped access. Interpretation provided by the BLM and LDS Church.) Source: BLM brochure. |
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