Scope and Contents In this autographed reminiscence, Colfax describes his stagecoach trip from Missouri to California in 1865. It is likely he made the trip in his capacity as chair of the Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads. Account includes his detailed observations regarding trail terrain, arable lands, mining, and the people he encountered. Colfax also indirectly considered the issue of the transcontinental railroad. He spent a few days in Salt Lake City and met Brigham Young, president of the Mormon...

Scope and Contents Handwritten diary of Cone's overland journey by ox team from Waukesha, Wisconsin to California in 1849. Cone is a descriptive writer and proud to record "only facts." Diary describes traveling conditions, encounters with Indians, cholera outbreaks, fellow travelers, and government assistance at the end of the trail. Cone also spent time in Salt Lake City and wrote about his unfavorable impressions. After arriving at California, Cone made several trips to Sacramento. Life in California was...

Scope and Contents Handwritten diary and typewritten transcript. The diary was transcribed by Jackson's sister, Marion Jackson Gilbert, in 1855. Jackson made the overland journey with mules from Independence, Missouri to Sacramento, California in 1849. Long and descriptive daily entries focus on the nature of the California trail, encounters with Indians, and the condition of forts along the way. Several outbreaks of cholera also occurred. Jackson stopped at Salt Lake City and attended Pioneer Day festivities....