Picturing history: Mormon Battalion, Fort Leavenworth

One member of the Mormon Battalion died on the second day of the journey.

The battalion reached Fort Leavenworth, Kan., on Aug. 1, 1846. Some had malaria-like symptoms of chills and fever. The soldiers were given arms, some six-man tents, blankets and some rations along with other items.

On Aug. 5, Orson Hyde, Parley P. Pratt, John Taylor and Jesse Little rode into camp, and battalion members rejoiced at their arrival.

Col. James Allen seemed pleased to see the visitors, too. The visitors came to take the clothing to pay back to the church and families. Allen did not leave Fort Leavenworth with his battalion because he had become ill. After lingering for more than a week, he passed away on Aug. 23, 1846. His headstone is seen at right.