Rescue of the Martin Handcart Company

In October 1856, the Martin Handcart Company became stranded in early winter storms in present-day Wyoming. Upon learning of their peril, Brigham Young immediately organized rescue parties who braved severe conditions to reach the suffering Saints.

Despite tremendous losses, many survivors later testified of divine interventions during their ordeal — including accounts of angels walking beside them, supernatural strength to continue, and providential discoveries of shelter and fuel. The rescue itself was described as miraculous in its timing and execution.