Diary of William Polke
Saturday, 6 Oct. 1838
“At a little before eight in the morning we left the encampment of last night. During the night we were visited by a fall of rain which rendered the travelling today unusually pleasant. The dust has been completely allayed, and the air much cooled. Water on the route was only to be found in stagnant ponds.”
“At three o’clock we reached our present encampment, which from the barrenness of the spot in everything save grass, brush and weeds, we have appropriately named Hobson’s Choice.”
“Beef and potatoes were issued to the Indians this evening. Forage, corn and hay. A child died since we came into camp. Distance travelled today eighteen miles.”
