Alexander Combs Erkson was one of the pioneers of 1849, having left the state of Iowa in the month of May, when he assisted in organizing a company known as the "Badger Company" at Kanesville, the object being mutual assistance and protection.

This company joined the Bennett party mentioned so prominently in this history, at the Missouri, and traveled with them or near them to the rendezvous near Salt Lake where the new company was organized for the southern trip taken by the Death Valley party, the Jayhawkers and others.

As the experience of Mr.Erkson was in some respects different to that of the parties mentioned, he having taken a different route for a part of the way, it was thought best to embody it in this history.

The following was dictated to the editor of this book, and as Mr.Erkson died before the written account could be revised by him, it is the best that can possibly be obtained.
* * * * * MR.

ERKSON'S STATEMENT.
"We arrived at the Mormon camp near Salt Lake, Salt Lake City, in the month of August.