History Expedition Presents

The Forlorn Hope and Camp of Death

In December 1846, 15 members of the Donner Party left Truckee (Donner) Lake on snowshoes, attempted to cross the Sierra in the heart of a record-breaking snowfall winter, to get word to civilization at Johnson Ranch, near Wheatland, that their families and friends were snowbound and starving. The intrepid members consisted of men and women, elders, and youth, thrown together to endure what would become one of the most remarkable survival stories of all time.

In 2020, the History Expedition team discovered path and retraced the steps of this party, dubbed the ‘Forlorn Hope’ by author C.F. McGlashan. Of the fifteen that began, seven survived, after becoming lost in the desolate wilderness surrounding the North Fork of the American River for 33 days. Along the way, the Team discovered a place thought lost to history forever: the Camp of Death, where four of the Forlorn Hope Party members died and were consumed for sustenance.

Come listen as the tale of the Forlorn Hope and the Team’s discoveries unfolds through the stories and captured images and film. This will be a most entertaining evening about a remarkable America West story, inspiring people and breathtaking imagery of the Sierra.

Running time: 2h

Friday, December 6, 2024
7:00 PM

Location— Odd Fellows Lodge #7, 1226½ Lincoln Way in Auburn

Tickets: $12 Adults, $10 Seniors and Kids under 12 ($2 fees included)

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