Yesterday marked the 150th anniversary of the arrival of the first handcart pioneers in the Salt Lake Valley.
The Sons of Utah Pioneers, a society intent on preserving the history and memory of those who settled Utah, sponsored a re-enactment of the journey of the first handcart company of 1856.
Leaving “This Is the Place Heritage Park,” people of all ages pushed and pulled 100 handcarts over seven miles to the plaza of the Conference Center, adjacent to Temple Square. The Nauvoo Brass Band, a group of musicians, greeted those dressed up as pioneers.
Elder Marlin K. Jensen, a general authority and the historian of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, spoke to the group.
“A people can be no greater than its stories,” said Elder Jensen when he explained why it is important to remember the pioneers and their sacrifice. He told the audience that the re-enactment allowed people to remember what God has done for them and what people have done for God and His Church.