The Utter Disaster

On September 9 & 10, the Utter Wagon Train engaged in a life-and-death struggle with attacking Indians.

The assault on the wagon train of forty-four emigrants led by Elijah P. Utter just north of here resulted in the death of six men, two women, and three children. Indian casualties were estimated at between 25 and 30. Survivors followed the Snake River to near the mouth of the Owyhee River. When rescued by the Army 45 days later, only fifteen had survived the ordeal of hunger and deprivation. No other Oregon Trail wagon train suffered greater losses.

This is Idaho Historic Marker #493 located near Murphy, Idaho

Related:

• Idaho Historic Markers