Mormon Graffiti

Along the Mormon Trail, at such places as Independence Rock, those heading west to their valley home, or even further to California and Oregon, left their mark. It was not uncommon for Saints to leave messages for those they knew were following them. Buffalo skulls were used for the same purpose. However, in Willow Springs, Arizona, after the failed 1873 Arizona Mission, the following message could be found carved into the cliff stating matter-of-factly, “Arizona Mission Dead—1873.” This was a very short lived mission, one in which Brigham Young had sent a number of Saints across the Little Colorado River to try and establish a Mormon settlement. Interestingly, it was tried again a few years later and this time met with success. Today, such places as Snowflake, Taylor, and St. Johns and a few others are the fruits of the second successful mission.

Under the statement “Arizona Mission Dead—1873” statement can be found another pioneer message. What was it?

a.      Salt Lake City or bust

b.      Amen and Amen

c.      Hallelujah

d.      Thou fool . . .