THE DUTCH OVEN MORMON FOODWAYS FROM NAUVOO TO THE SALT LAKE VALLEY 1846 TO 1869

Abstract

Mormon pioneer foodways were defined by the Word of Wisdom, the Mormon experience on the overland trail, European food traditions, and the isolated Utah environment. The combination of these components created unique overland trail foodways. Joseph Smith, the beginnings of Mormonism, and the conception of the Word of Wisdom laid the foundation for Mormon foodways. After leaving Nauvoo, Illinois to journey westward, the Mormon pioneers’ experiences strengthened the bond of community between the various nationalities that were present amongst the Mormon pioneers. Upon entering the Salt Lake Valley, the Mormons endeavored to establish viable settlements in the bleak environment of the Utah territory. After the passing of a few years in the valley, Brigham Young, the leader of the Mormon Church after the death of Joseph Smith, pushed for a renewed commitment to the Word of Wisdom. The Mormons were a part of the thousands of overland pioneers who left the eastern United States to begin new lives in the western United States. Pioneers on the Oregon Trail, the California Trail, and the Mormon Trail shared many similar experiences while on the trail, but I argue that Mormon foodways were created and defined as multiple nationalities came together, unified by the Word of Wisdom and by their religious beliefs.