Cholera outbreak at Rush Creek (Zion's Camp), June 1834

In late June 1834, when Zion's Camp reached Rush Creek, Missouri, a sudden and severe cholera epidemic struck the camp. Contemporary witnesses report that approximately 68 individuals were affected and that 13 to 15 members died and were buried. Wilford Woodruff recorded the widespread suffering and deaths (journal entries June 24–26, 1834) and noted that while Joseph Smith was initially unable to stay the hand of the destroyer, many were later healed by the power of God after the camp humbled themselves and the plague spent its force. Dr. Frederick G. Williams, serving as the camp physician, attended the sick and dying, participated in burials, and likewise recorded that some recoveries occurred after spiritual administrations — for example, John S. Carter was among those who recovered after being administered to once the scourge had passed. Hyrum Smith and Heber C. Kimball are also recorded as present during the outbreak.