The Dollop with Dave Anthony and Gareth Reynolds 396 - the Donner Party - live
Sep 18, 2019
This podcast discusses the harrowing story of the Donner Party and their struggle for survival. It covers topics such as the challenges of Manifest Destiny, tensions within the group, banishment of a member, abandoned individuals, surviving the harsh winter, arrival of the first relief, disturbing conversations about cannibalism, and articles about infamous members of the Donner Party.
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The Hastings Cutoff
- Despite warnings, the Donner party took the Hastings Cutoff, which added 120 miles to their journey.
- The party split, with some following the established trail.
Growing Troubles
- The Donner party received a misleading note from Hastings and grew to 87 people.
- Their journey was delayed, supplies dwindled, and livestock died.
Reaching the Sierra Nevadas
- The Donner party sent two men ahead for help.
- They completed the Hastings Cutoff after 68 grueling days, far behind schedule.