Hands on History: The Donner Party and Westward Migration

Continuing a series of fun and interactive Hands on History activities offered each month, Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park (SHP) will present a special Hands on History: The Donner Party and Westward Migration event. Fort visitors will be delighted to see the recently completed restoration of the historic walls and gates plus have the opportunity to step back in time to learn more about the Donner Party and western migration in general.

Early in California’s history, wagon travel across the Sierra Nevada was a dangerous proposition and more than 80 emigrants became trapped in the Sierra snows during the winter of 1846-47. The group is now known as the Donner Party, but they were actually many different families and individuals. Sutter’s Fort was their destination and became their only hope of survival. As part of the next Hands on History event, Sutter’s Fort guests will have the opportunity to see Patty Reed’s precious doll on display while learning more details and gaining additional perspective about the arduous journey. Fort visitors will also be able to pack a wagon, write in their journals with a quill pen, make a corn husk or rag doll, and create their own pioneer souvenir item to take home. In addition, interested Fort visitors are encouraged to bring a camera or use a smartphone to take memorable photos while seated in the covered wagon (which might also work as a unique holiday card this season).