Spring Lake Students Go Back in History

Howling winds and dust didn’t put a damper on the fun and learning at Camp Floyd for the Fourth grade students from Spring Lake Elementary. The experience began with a fascinating first-person recounting by “Sergeant” Mood, of how Johnston’s Army came to Utah and what that experience was like for the soldiers who made that long trek. Students were surprised to learn that at the time (1858-61), a full one-third of the entire U.S. Army was stationed at Camp Floyd.

What Mormon settlers at first were most fearful of, became a great blessing. Johnston’s Army found no “rebellion”, so there was never any military action, but the military provided a strong economic boon to the area through construction of the camp, supplying the army while there, and the camp/equipment/supplies being sold for a few cents on the dollar when the army left to fight the Civil War in 1861.

As the Fourth Grade students rotated through the learning activities, the flag was whipping straight out. Despite the weather conditions, the students thoroughly enjoyed making brick, dipping candles, drilling as soldiers, racing like Pony Express Riders, and touring the Commissary, the old schoolhouse, and the Stagecoach Inn. Each of the nine activities was lead by gracious parent volunteers. Their willingness was much appreciated by teachers and students. It was a great day of learning history first hand from Mr. Chuck Mood and Mr. Mark Trotter; enthusiastic experts in impressive period uniform. These two men coached the parent volunteers and gladly answered questions. They are obviously committed to helping people come to appreciate this place where Utah and American history come together.