Heritage Gateways

Brent C (B.C.) Moore Journals

July 10, 1997

Location: Fort Bridger - 96 miles left, Wyoming - (You cross four gushing creeks, within half a mile, before you reach the Fort, and by traveling half a mile beyond the Fort, you will cross three others, and then find a good place to camp.) - 917 miles from Winter Quarters.

Summary: Rest day at Fort Bridger -- or, how do you spell relief

Journal entry: It was nice to wake up late and have pancakes in the Freestone's rented motorhome. Soon after breakfast, Amy and I went over to the choir practice at the bandstand. We sang along to the tape recording of the Tabernacle Choir. I think we are sounding better and better. Some people may want to disagree.

Fort Bridger is now a beautiful spot. The only remains of the fort as the Mormon pioneers knew it is a small section of the cobblestone wall, known as the "Mormon Wall." The rest of the fort has been built since the 1860's and 70's, when it was owned by the Federal Government. It is now a state historical site, with plush green lawns and lots of shady trees, just what we have been hoping for since we left Casper. It is neat to go inside some of the old buildings, which have been restored and furnished with period furniture and decor.

One of Amy's brothers, Kenny, came from Orem this morning with a few of Amy's friends from home. We had a good time getting to know each other, and then later this afternoon, Amy's dad cooked a dutch oven feast: a roast surrounded by potatoes, carrots, and gravy, followed by fruit salad and fruit cobbler. We ate and ate, but there was still food left over. With cooking skills like that, I can see why he has been a scout leader for so long.

Just walking around the fort today, we have been approached by many people offering buttons for Amy. It has been incredible to hear people's stories and find out about them. One lady heard about Amy from a friend and asked me for my pocket knife. When I handed it to her, she cut off the top button from her blouse and handed it to me. The button belonged to her grandmother. Thank you.

All is well.