Maria Sophia Jensen

Maria Jensen was the daughter of Hans Jensen and Sidse Marie Jacobsdatter, both from Denmark. They were among the many Danes who joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and emigrated to America with a desire to reach the Salt Lake Valley. The Jensen family joined the Christian Christiansen Company and left for the west on June 15, 1857.

As the company drew near to Fort Bridger, Wyoming, 1-year-old Maria Sophia became ill and died. He is buried near Fort Bridger, Wyoming.

Her mother’s history relates the following: “Sophia who was between one and two years of age, lay sick, suffering, distressed and anxious. Her mother's cares, anxieties, and tears proved futile. When at last the baby succumbed, she was placed away in Mother Earth with only such provisions for burial as could be provided under the circumstances. A sieve was placed over her face and her little form covered by the earth that was taken from her grave.”