DiscoverGirlscampTo Hell in a Handcart: The Mormon Pioneer Disaster
To Hell in a Handcart: The Mormon Pioneer Disaster

To Hell in a Handcart: The Mormon Pioneer Disaster

Update: 2025-08-27
Share

Description

What haunted my Mormon girl nightmares? The Martin and Willie handcart tragedy. And here’s the thing: the version I was taught growing up wasn’t even as bad as the reality. In this episode, we’ll recap what really happened on that deadly trek, share some of the most harrowing and human anecdotes, and yes, do some much-deserved shit talking of Brigham Young. But more than that, I’ll dig into why this story still matters to me as a former Mormon—and how it continues to shape the way I understand both the faith of my upbringing and my identity as a descendant of pioneers.


If you're struggling with OCD or unrelenting intrusive thoughts, NOCD can help. Book a free 15 minute call to get started: https://learn.nocd.com/girlscamp




Devil's Gate book




Join the Girlscamp: After Dark Patreon account ⁠here.⁠


For more Girlscamp content follow along on ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠TikTok⁠ and ⁠YouTube⁠.


For ad inquiries please email girlscamppodcast@gmail.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Comments 
00:00
00:00
1.0x

0.5x

0.8x

1.0x

1.25x

1.5x

2.0x

3.0x

Sleep Timer

Off

End of Episode

5 Minutes

10 Minutes

15 Minutes

30 Minutes

45 Minutes

60 Minutes

120 Minutes

To Hell in a Handcart: The Mormon Pioneer Disaster

To Hell in a Handcart: The Mormon Pioneer Disaster

Hayley Rawle