For our family there is an interesting story about the Donner Party. My wifes ancestors were with the Donner Party up to the fork in the trail where the Southern route went to Calif. and the Northern Route went to Oregon. Her relatives went North lugging a Seth Thomas Mantel Clock which is in perfect working condition and over our fireplace. It is at least 165 yrs old, probably more as they owned it a few years prior to traveling West. Has some cosmetic blemishes but still a source of pride with us.