If ever a group of people was headed for disaster it was the Donner party that pulled out of Independence Missouri in 1846 and headed for California.
By the time they reached what is present day Reno, the party had been beset with problems, but none as cruel as the tragedy that awaited them in the high Sierras.
The journey across the Forty-Mile Desert was long and grueling. Lulled by the balmy weather, leaders decided to postpone the trek across the mountains as they camped near the foot of Rattlesnake Mountain in Reno. Perhaps they thought of the promise of California, just over the mountains that loomed westward. Those who were experienced with the vagaries of high sierra weather urged them not to delay. Unfortunately their pleas fell on deaf ears.
In late October with mild weather still upon them, the Donner party broke camp and headed west. Not far into their journey at the foot of the Sierras, they were thwarted by heavy snowfall and had little choice but to seek refuge. Still unaware of the party's imminent danger, leaders told themselves that a break in the weather would come soon, and they would be able to continue on. But it was not to be. As days gave way to weeks, the snow continued to fall and food became scarcer.
The weak and the sick were dying. Snow was piling up at an ungodly rate, and there was no end in sight. Members of the party looked around and knew they would all die if something weren't done. So they made the terrible decision that would forever stigmatize the Donner Party. They would survive on the flesh of their dead friends and relatives.
Much has been written about the Donner Party and their hardships. Those who want to learn more about the Donner Party should visit the Donner State Memorial Park in Truckee California. The park features a campground, walking trail, monument, museum, and some folks say there are a few ghosts.
There are those who admit to be unable to sleep in the campground because of the eerie feeling they claim to encounter. Perhaps the spirits are hoping to set the record straight on their tragic story. Then again, maybe they are just suggesting that we "walk a mile in their shoes".
Go To Page: 1 2
| Here's the follow-up discussion on this article: | View all related messages |
For a complete listing of article comments, questions, and other discussions related to Janice Oberding's Ghosts topic, please visit the Discussions page.