American West Live!
American West Live!
History Expeditions
S1 E6: Freezing, Starved, & Alone: Life at Winter Encampment
11 minutes Posted Jul 18, 2025 at 11:00 am.
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In late 1844, the Stephens-Townsend-Murphy Party became the first to bring wagons over the Sierra Nevada. Exhausted, they established a winter encampment on the Yuba River. Facing snow, dwindling food, and separation, they endured starvation and hardship until a rescue in early 1845 brought them to safety. Interested in learning more? Read the full story here!

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