https://mojavedesert.net/people/hunt.html
Jefferson Hunt was a significant figure in the history of the American West, particularly in the Mojave Desert. Born in 1803, Hunt was a captain in the Mormon Battalion during the Mexican-American War and later played a crucial role as a pioneer and explorer.
Key Contributions:
- Mormon Battalion: As a captain in the Mormon Battalion, Hunt led his men on one of the longest infantry marches in U.S. history, from Council Bluffs, Iowa, to San Diego, California. This journey helped to open up the Southern Route, which passed through the Mojave Desert.
- Guide and Explorer: Hunt became a prominent guide and explorer in the Southwest after his military service. He was instrumental in establishing and improving overland trails. His deep knowledge of the terrain and survival skills made him a valuable leader for settlers moving west.
- California Legislature: Hunt served as a representative in the first California Legislature from 1850 to 1851. During his term, he advocated for the interests of settlers and worked on development policies that affected the Mojave Desert region.
- Settlements and Communities: Jefferson Hunt founded several communities, notably contributing to the Mormon colonization of San Bernardino in California. His efforts helped establish vital supply routes and settlements that facilitated further migration and trade.
Jefferson Hunt’s contributions to the development and exploration of the Mojave Desert are a testament to his leadership and pioneering spirit. His work helped to shape the patterns of settlement and economic growth in the region during a crucial period in American history.
mojavedesert.net › people › hunt
Captain Jefferson Hunt … their way and became the Lost Death Valley 49ers. In 1851, his church called him to help create a Mormon settlement in San …
digital-desert.com › blog › tag › jefferson-hunt
Dec 22, 2021 … Death Valley’s Lost ’49ers. Jefferson Hunt’s Mojave San Joaquin Company, a wagon train made up of anxious gold seekers and settlers frustrated …
mojavedesert.net › mormon-pioneers › mormon-battalion
On the 11th of June, 1847, accompanied by Captain Jefferson Hunt‘s Mormon Battalion, the Mormons trek for Salt Lake started. They left Council Bluffs, Iowa; …
mojavedesert.net › mormon-battalion
Captain Jefferson Hunt. Captain in the Mormon Battalion – Led the Mojave/San Joaquin Company (Mojave Sand-walking Company) to Southern California, a portion of …
mojavedesert.net › people › manly
History: Profiles in Mojave Desert History. William Lewis Manly. The Bennett-Arcane party had split off from Jefferson Hunt’s “Mojave Sand-Walking …
Jefferson Hunt’s Mojave San Joaquin Company, a wagon train made up of … Jefferson Hunt to guide them to Los Angeles over the Old Spanish Trail. At the …
digital-desert.com › blog › tag › bennett-arcan
Jefferson Hunt’s Mojave San Joaquin Company, a wagon train made up of anxious gold seekers and settlers frustrated by a late start across the desert in late …