Martin's Cove

A couple of months ago Matt was called to Wyoming on business. We took the rare opportunity to go with him on this trip. Along the way, we stopped at Martin's Cove. This was the best part of our entire trip and was really something special.

Both Matt and I have ancestors that traveled to Utah in the Martin Handcart Company. Our ancestors likely met long ago. Matt has ancestors on his Dad's side that traveled in this company. Ancestors on his Mom's side traveled in the Hodgetts Wagon Company that traveled most of the way along side or near the Martin Handcart Company. His Mom and Dad's family likely met as well, not knowing that someday our families would be connected.

When we went to Martin's Cove we didn't know much about the history of this sacred place. We have since researched and read and learned so many fascinating, special stories of this Company and the sacrifices they made for us.

We arrived at Martin's Cove just before they closed. A missionary couple asked us if we would like to accompany them in a ride around the grounds. They told us so many wonderful stories as they showed us place after place of significance. Since reading "The Price We Paid" (thanks, Jen) our pictures have even more meaning to me.
Below is the river where the pioneers had to cross for the last time in the freezing snow. The rescuers saved many lives by carrying people over the icy water over and over again.

Below is Devils Gate.There are several statues at Martin's Cove representing the rescue efforts that were truly heroic.
The missionaries told us that it is always windy there. Can you imagine walking all day long in the blistering snow with the wind blowing at your face?