Library to Host Virtual Program on Mormon Battalion
October 29, 2021 – In partnership with the Midland Genealogical Society, the Grace A. Dow Memorial Library will host a virtual program on the only religious unit in United States military history and its harrowing 2000-mile infantry march on Wednesday, November 17 at 7 p.m.
Presented by Kevin Henson, “Battle Trek, The Mormon Battalion” explores the Mormon Battalion’s service in the Mexican-American War and its impact on US military history in observance of its 175th anniversary. When members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints prepared to travel to settle in Salt Lake Valley, President James K. Polk asked the group to raise a battalion of 500 men to help occupy what was then known as “Upper Mexico.” The Battalion mustered at Council Bluffs, Iowa, and began its 2000-mile journey to Los Angeles – the longest infantry march in US military history at the time. Program attendees will learn about the adventures this brave group faced as it trekked from Iowa to California during their year of service.
This virtual program is presented jointly with the Midland Genealogical Society and registration is required. Please register on the Library calendar at https://gadml.librarycalendar.com to receive a Zoom link to attend the program. For questions or assistance, please call 989-837-3449 or email askgadml@gmail.com.
The Grace A. Dow Memorial Library is located at 1710 W. St. Andrews Rd and is a service of the City of Midland. For more information or to learn more about the Library, visit www.gadml.org.
