Bret Harte Union High School - Sierra Vista Yearbook (Angels Camp, CA)

Page 70 text:

The Donner Party lTH THE HIGH peaks of the Sierras looking forbiddingly down on them, the Donner Party suffered one of the worst tragedies of history on the shores of Donner Lake in the winter of 1846. This party, numbering thirty-one, had started hopefully from Springfield, Illinois, for far away Cali- fornia in April of that year. The number gradually increased as they traveled along, but, unfortunately, un- ity was lacking and the party's strength was decreased as many members deserted during the first hardships. At Fort Bridges after much serious debate the party divid- edg the majority went the longer way and safely reach- ed California, while the minority took the Hastings Cut-off, believing that it would save them approxi- mately 300 miles. Though the strictest economy was practiced the party came face to face with starvation, and it was necessary for two members, C. T. Stanton and William McClutcheon, to go forward for relief. Stanton's return in early October restored the party's hope and vigor. Despite all optimism winter made its appearance a month earlier than usual and hope gave wa'y to despair. After several unsuccessful attempts to cross the summit, the party was forced to return to Donner Lake. Although four expeditions were sent to aid them only eighteen of the original group survived the ordeals. -eEl32l9 -