This story may have its origins in Waggoner (1931), pp. 347, 351. Waggoner's theory is based on his conclusion that Mule Springs, where the relief party rested, is near Relief Hill, whereas local historians place Mule Springs between the Bear River and Steephollow Creek, more than 10 miles to the south.[9] Waggoner, W. W. (1931). "The Donner Party and Relief Hill". Journal of the California Historical Society. 10 (4): 346–352. doi:10.2307/25160480. JSTOR25160480.
jstor.org
This story may have its origins in Waggoner (1931), pp. 347, 351. Waggoner's theory is based on his conclusion that Mule Springs, where the relief party rested, is near Relief Hill, whereas local historians place Mule Springs between the Bear River and Steephollow Creek, more than 10 miles to the south.[9] Waggoner, W. W. (1931). "The Donner Party and Relief Hill". Journal of the California Historical Society. 10 (4): 346–352. doi:10.2307/25160480. JSTOR25160480.