The pioneers set up three blacksmith forges in their camp on the North Platte this June 2, 1847. Then, Brigham Young led a group across the river to Fort Laramie, nearly two miles away. There, they met the fort's leader, James Bordeaux.

Heber C. Kimball:

"HE CONDUCTED US UP A FLIGHT OF OUTSIDE STAIRS INTO A COMFORTABLE ROOM, AND BEING FURNISHED WITH SEATS, WE SAT DOWN TO REST."

The pioneers arranged to use Bordeaux's flatboat for 15-dollars to ferry across the Platte. Then they visited the Fort's store where flour cost 25-cents a pound, fabric a dollar a yard, and you could buy a horse for 40-dollars.