Category Archives: Kelsey

Thursday, 28th. Surely no horses nor mules with less experience than ours could have descended the difficult steeps and defiles which we encountered in this day’s journey. Even as it was, several horses and mules fell from the mountain’s side … Continue reading →

On his 1841 trek to California, John Bidwell traveled with several members of the Kelsey family. He never forgot the trials on the trail of Mrs. Samuel Kelsey, wife of the oldest of four Kelsey brothers on the trip. I … Continue reading →

“Tuesday, 10th. The day was fine and pleasant; a soft and cheerful breeze and the sky bedimmed by smoke brought to mind the tranquil season of autumn.”  John Bidwell waxing poetic on the trail. “A distance of 10 miles took … Continue reading →