Deven deaths in the former nes is one aspect of trail life that children frequently experienced. Ofthe ninety-two accounts, eighteen menand between 135-150 in the latter. Buf family members and friends-or even beloved animals. Some companies of pioneers crossing the plains had higher rates of mortality than othereath of loved otion the Stoddard Compan

y of the same year suffered no casualties at all. Most deaths occurred as a result of cholera or other illnesses or as a result of accidents along the trail.death oixty-ss, making it difficult to conclude that death on the trail was something all children witnessed first-hand. The Willie and Martin handcart companies both suffered extreme casualties-approximately st the Robinson Company of 1860 recorded only one death in the entire company and