1864 saw the highest numbers of emigrants cross the Great Plains to escape the immense pressures of war, to seize the opportunity to find gold, or to start afresh. One family’s adventure has been preserved in a diary, now considered an American literary treasure. Come hear how the Rousseau family from Iowa endured the journey with poison water holes, quicksand, robberies, the searing Mojave, and starvation near the snow-capped San Bernardino Mountains. Unique for the Arizona Historical Society–an exploration of the Rousseaus in the Arizona Territory. Presented by Janelle Molony, award-winning author and descendant of the Rousseau family. 

G-rated content suitable for all ages. Q&A and book signing to follow.