JOURNAL OF A FORMER EXPLORATION BY LIEUT. WILLIAMSON. 
129 
This camp of Lieutenant Williamson was in nearly the same spot as our Camp 20. On July 
15, he followed almost the same trail that we subsequently did, through Stoneman’s ridge, and 
encamped on Canoe creek, between our Camps 18 and 19. The following extracts from his 
journal describe his route from this camp. 
July 16.—We started early, and followed a westerly course. The road was good, although 
occasionally rocky. After travelling about ten miles, and ascending two high ledges, we found 
ourselves in a little prairie, in which there were two Indian rancherias. A small creek, rising 
among the hills, flowed through the prairie, and after spreading out into several branches 
probably sank. Turning our course towards the south, we travelled about five miles to the 
foot of a steep ascent. We gained the summit in about three hours, and encamped near the 
sources of Battle creek, with an abundant supply of excellent grass and water. Lassen’s Butte 
was in plain sight towards the southeast. 
July 17.—We started early this morning to follow a westerly course, and for several hours 
were winding about among hills, rocks, and thick bushes. The road, however, was occasionally 
good. At the expiration of this time we had reached the foot hills, which extend for a con¬ 
siderable distance into the Sacramento valley. Soon afterwards we struck the main branch of 
Cow creek, which we crossed without difficulty. We encamped upon its banks, about a mile 
from the crossing, after a hard day’s march. The grass was excellent in the vicinity. We 
felt very sensibly a great change in temperature, due to the difference in elevation between the 
morning and evening camps. 
July 18.—We travelled about sixteen miles down the creek to its junction with another 
branch, and then turned towards the south. In a short distance we struck Lyon’s trail, which 
we followed to the Sacramento river. We crossed the stream, and encamped on Cotton-wood 
creek, about two miles from Major Reading’s house. 
17 X 
