In early September of 1854, U.S. Army Col. E. J. Steptoe and his troops established an encampment on the eastern shore of Rush Lake in Rush Valley, just a few miles south of the present-day town of Stockton. Col. Steptoe had been sent to Utah by President Franklin Pierce to take over as governor following the Gunnison Massacre. However, upon learning of Brigham Young’s popularity, he declined the position and instead requested that Young be retained as governor. At the remote encampment, several hundred men, mules, and horses briefly thrived, leaving behind a historical marker that stands today. This roadside monument includes a grave of an infant who died at the encampment, serving as a poignant reminder of the challenges and sacrifices made by those who traveled through the area so many years ago. Visiting the site is a unique way to connect with the region’s rich history and appreciate the resilience and determination of those who came before us.
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