Donner Party stranded by snow in the Sierra Nevada

Background. The Donner Party originated from Springfield, Illinois, and departed Independence, Missouri, in spring 1846. The group faced desolate terrain and difficulties along the Humboldt River, resulting in lost cattle and wagons. Internal divisions formed within the party. The Sierra Nevada, a mountain range in the Western United States, played an important role in California's history, though the party's specific ordeal occurred before the gold rush era.

Stranding in the Sierra. By early November 1846, the migrants reached the Sierra Nevada but became trapped by an early, heavy snowfall near Truckee Lake, now known as Donner Lake. The pass, named after the party, was blocked by snow, forcing them to spend the winter on the east side of the mountains. The winter of 1846–1847 was especially severe, contributing to the disaster.

Survival and Cannibalism. Some migrants resorted to cannibalism to survive, eating the bodies of those who died from starvation, sickness, or cold. In one instance, two Miwok guides were murdered and eaten. Accounts of the ordeal reached New York City in July 1847. The first relief party did not arrive until mid-February 1847, almost four months after the wagon train became trapped.