Independance Rock and Devil's Gate (Near Martin's Cove)

We were delighted to have weathered the huge snowstorm / blizzard we encountered all across Nebraska on the way to Martin's Cover, where the Martin Handcart Company met with such difficulty and had to be rescued. It was certainly an appropriate irony. We were able to read first hand journal accounts of some of those in the company while travelling to Martin's Cove. It was incomprehensible what they had to endure, and many were not able to endure. It was a powerful place to visit. One of Brad's (and Alex's) ancestors, William Burt Simmons, was one of the rescuers of the Martin Company. His name was listed on a plaque on the wall at the visitor's center.

From the written history of one of William Burt Simmons' grandchildren, "to grandpa Simmons, the plight of the handcart companies held special concern. He had experienced the open plains which provided no protection from the bitter cold and driving snow. His cattle had frozen to death as he and his family had huddled together in blankets lying in the bed of their wagon with scant protection of canvas between them and the storm as they awaited the expiration of the ferocious wind and snow.

He was urged on with the realization that he was one of the few ready to leave for the rescue. Burt had set aside funds, a new stout carriage, and the best of harnesses and horses and ample provisions necessary when the call might come from church leaders to return. He had built a special shed in which to store his carriage and provisions from the elements. Ever so often he would see that his equipment was in the best of order. he would putter, repaint and repair and do what was necessary to keep everything in top condition for an expected journey back. He always kept his best wagon stored and kept all the equipment and provisions rotated. He did this for years. He also kept his best animals in good shape so that they could make the hurried trip, if necessary. Some folks talked or even joked about Brother Simmons, his team and stored provisions, and would ask, 'is he doing this all for naught?' He always replied, 'I heard the prophets voice and I am ready!"

In response to the promptings of the spirit, and knowing he was prepared and had the ability and capacity for service, he volunteered at Brigham Young's call and was one of the first wagons to leave.

The sight that Grandpa Simmons saw at Captain Martin's camp was overwhelming. Some of the people were dead, awaiting a meager funeral from the people who were too weak to dig them even a shallow grave. Many were too starved for food and weak from exposure to rally after relief had come, many dying during the night. All were suffering from frozen limbs and were emaciated from starvation rations."

Martin's Cove was a very powerful reminder of the strong faith that the saints had and the unbelievable suffering that they experienced while trying to cross the plains.