A History Lesson

You will find Donner Pass in the Sierra Nevada at elevation 7,085. The pass was named after George Donner and his group of settlers that were moving from Illinois to California. In November, 1846 this group was traveling through the pass and found it blocked by snow so they set up camp, near a lake, that would someday be known as Donner Lake.

In mid-December a group of 10 men and 5 women set out to reach Sutters Fort (In Sacramento). Unfortunately, this group became lost and disoriented due to the cold and lack of food. When 4 members died, the rest decided to eat them for survival. On January 18th, 7 survivors reached the western side of the mountain. Four relief parties were sent and the last member of the Donner Party arrived at Sutters Fort on April 29th. Of the 87 members of the original Donner Party, 39 died.

Last year, in the middle of a snowstorm, I braved this treacherous mountain. I survived the wind, snow and accidents and successfully made it to Ben Edwards house.....and contrary to what you may have heard, I was there on time.