Martha Alice Easthope

Martha's Story

Stories > Martha Alice Easthope
The Story

Martha's Story

researched by Penny Magnusson Hannum

Birth:  December 6th, 1861   |   female   |   in Middleton, Lancashire, England

Death:  September 8th, 1868   |   6 years old   |   in Wyoming

Memorial:   Stone 17   |   center column

Martha Alice is the daughter of John Easthope and Sarah Taylor, both of England. The family immigrated to America on the ship “Emerald Isle.” After arriving, they traveled by train to Nebraska where they joined the John Holman Company. Along with other members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the company departed for the Great Salt Lake Valley on Sept 1, 1868.

Disease, injury, lack of food and medicine, prematurity, and weather were some of the greatest threats to pioneers. After traveling one week, 6-year-old Martha Alice passed away and buried along the Mormon Trail in Wyoming. There were hot days, and cold nights on the plains, as well as many miles of walking. Many children were not prepared for the hard journey.

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