March 15th—was appointed by a General Convention as one of a committee of ten to draft a constitution for the Provisional State of Deseret.
March 18th—The committee reported, and the Convention unanimously adopted the constitution.
I devoted the fore part of the summer to farming; but, my crop failing, I commenced in July to work a road up the rugged canyon of Big Canyon Creek. I had the previous year explored the canyon for that purpose, and also a beautiful park,* and passes from Salt Lake City to Weber River eastward, in a more southern and less rugged route than the pioneer entrance to the valley. Emigrants now came pouring in from the States on their way to California to seek gold. Money and gold dust was plenty, and merchandise of almost every description came pouring into our city in great plenty.
[Footnote] *Since called Parley's Park.
I soon so far completed my road as to be able to obtain a large amount of fuel and timber. In November I ceased operations in the canyon and broke up my mountain camp and returned to the city.
I now received a commission from the Governor and Legislative Assembly of the State of Deseret to raise fifty men, with the necessary teams and outfit, and go at their head on an exploring tour to the southward.
This company was soon raised, armed, equipped, and ready for a march into the dreary and almost unknown regions of Southern Utah.
I will here give the list of names composing the company, and also a short summary of the report that I gave in to the Legislative Assembly on our return.
PARLEY P. PRATT, President.
W. W. PHELPS, D. FULMER, Counselors;
ROBERT L. CAMPBELL, Clerk.
February 7th, 1850: