Handcart Trails, a 3-act production written by Ruth Hudson Hale

1939 – “Handcart Trails” Pioneer Play

In 1939, the Granger Ward M.I.A. sponsored an original and authentic pioneer play titled Handcart Trails, a powerful three-act production written by Ruth Hudson Hale. The play presented a chronological account of a pioneer family’s journey, tracing their travels south from Dakota into Wyoming and continuing westward as part of a handcart company departing from Iowa City near Nauvoo, Illinois. Through this family’s experience, the production portrayed both the humor and hardship of pioneer life.

The drama vividly captured both faith and tragedy, including a moving scene in which seventeen members of the company were depicted as dying in a single night. Performed in ward amusement halls, Handcart Trails brought pioneer history to life for audiences and fostered a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices of early settlers.

Due to its strong storytelling and emotional impact, Handcart Trails was shared with groups throughout Utah and remained a popular and frequently performed pioneer production from the late 1930s through the 1960s. The Granger Ward cast featured notable local talent, including Gertrude Todd, Gloria Orr, Norman Hale, Pauline Bangerter, Norman Bawden, Miriam Latimer, Did Parr, Glen Todd, Rulon McKay, LaRue Latimer, Dan Lehman, Lilly Bawden, John Arnold, Mary Karen Inkley, Melvin Bawden, Lylo Wallace, Joe Breeze, Mareldia Inkley, Sam Bangerter, and Phyllis Park.

The production “Handcart Trails” reflected the Granger Ward’s deep respect for pioneer heritage and demonstrated the important role of ward-sponsored cultural programs in preserving history and strengthening community bonds across Utah for over 20 years.

 Picture furnished by Donna Bawden of he play Light for Tomorrow/It Shall Keep Thee

Picture furnished by Donna Bawden of he play Light for Tomorrow/It Shall Keep Thee