Johannes Alma Sandersen

Johannes' Story

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The Story

Johannes' Story

researched by Penny Magnusson Hannum

Birth:  September 20th, 1862   |   male   |   in Denmark

Death:  August 28th, 1866   |   3 years old   |   in Nebraska

Memorial:   Stone 17   |   center column

Johannes Alma Sandersen is the son of Nielsine Christiane Marie Nielsdatter and Sander Sandersen, both of Denmark.

The Sandersen family immigrated to America, sailing with other members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on the ship “Cavour.” Exhaustive travel conditions, disease, injury, lack of food and medicine, prematurity, and extreme weather were some of the greatest threats to pioneers. On the ship, disease was prevalent among the Saints, primarily cholera and typhoid fever. After arriving in America, they traveled to Nebraska where they joined the Abner Lowry Company, beginning their journey to the Great Salt Lake Valley on August 13, 1866.

Shortly after starting the trek, 2-year-old Johannes Alma passed away. It is believed that the illness he suffered on the ship caused his death. He is buried on the plain in Nebraska, along the Mormon Trail.

submitted by The Daughters of Utah Pioneers and Days of ‘47