Survivors & Heroes Expedition: the Stephens-Townsend-Murphy Party

In partnership with California State Parks and the Nevada County Library, the monthly Sierra Speaker Series connects folks to the rich cultural and natural history of the area. Join us at Donner Memorial State Park Visitor Center to learn and engage! Doors open at 5 pm, and the presentation is to follow at 5:30 pm. Admission is a suggested $5 donation. Light refreshments and wine sponsored by Highway 12 Winery will be available. Parking is free after 5 pm. No registration required.

The History Expeditions team is back in the field with another expedition, discovering the trails and tales of the American West. This time, they are tracing the route of a breakout group from the Stephens-Townsend-Murphy who traveled from Donner Lake to Sutter’s Fort in November 1844. This group of six individuals broke from the main party of 51 members on horseback, but no one has been able to discern the route they took - until now. The History Expedition team has researched the route for nearly 2 years and will retrace their steps, on horseback, in a reprise starting September 29th at DMSP and ending in Auburn, 120 miles and five days later on October 3rd. Fresh off the trail, the Expedition members will be here to share the STM story and tales of their expedition experience.

The History Expeditions team includes four ultra-distance athletes who share a passion for history will honor the lives and courage of the Forlorn Hope members. Read their full bios here.