Let the Journals Begin!

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The first, partial page of Walter Lovejoy’s initial journal bears the inscription:

“This book

W Lov(XXXX)

History

Campaign

Trapping

Summer”

This inscription, although incomplete, suggests that Walter Lovejoy had a broader purpose in mind than merely recording daily events. Neither this page nor the two immediately following it is dated. It is possible that dates borne on these pages were lost through damage, or they may just be a general summary of the earlier events that serve as a starting point for subsequent, more detailed entries.

The remnant portions of the first two pages appear to describe the departure from camp of Jess, who will return, and two other persons, possibly named George, mentioned on this page, and Hal (September 25, 1886). Lovejoy refers to these latter two as “the boys,” a term of affection and not indicative of young age. A wagon is loaded with fawn skins, luggage, two saddles, “curiosities,” and “weeks” rations. Point of Rocks is mentioned, possibly as a destination, but it is much more likely that they were heading for the Union Pacific railroad station in Rock Springs, roughly 75 miles to the south. A subsequent entry records Jess's return “from the rail road” (September 8 or 9, 1886).

This passage is of interest for three reasons. First, it puts into context a later entry in which Lovejoy describes the departure of Jess, “… the last of my 3 partners that left the states with me 9 months ago” (November 30, 1886). Second, it gives some indication of the period possibly covered in the first pages of the journal. Third, it possibly explains the timing of the start of this journal. With his companions departing and several days alone ahead of him, Lovejoy may have begun writing partly to occupy his time. In subsequent entries, he acknowledges his loneliness (September 6, 1886) and records his pleasure at Jess’s return.

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