The Tragic Trek of the Grosh Brothers
In 1857, the Grosh brothers believed they had struck silver in Nevada. Determined to secure funding, they embarked on a perilous journey from Gold Canyon to San Francisco. Tragedy struck early as Hosea, the younger brother, died from an injury. Undeterred, Ethan Allen, along with Richard Bucke, pressed on, battling harsh winter storms and near death experiences. Reaching Last Chance, California, Ethan succumbed to frostbite, their dreams vanishing with him.
Despite the devastating outcome, the Grosh brothers’ story resonates. The Grosh Brothers Expedition aims to retrace their steps, unveiling the physical and emotional depths of their ordeal. By locating potential sites and exploring their motivations, the expedition seeks to understand the brothers’ legacy and the human spirit’s resilience in the face of immense adversity. Their ultimate tribute: a 100-mile trek reenacting the brothers’ final, fateful journey.
Details of the Expedition
To honor the Grosh Brothers, a never before attempted 100-mile winter crossing on foot across the Sierra Nevada Mountains from Gold Canyon, Nevada to Last Chance, California, retracing their route.
We will depart Gold Canyon, NV on February 27th, 2023 and arrive at Last Chance, CA 5 days later.
Co-founders, veteran ultra-distance trail runners who have organized and performed previous history expeditions:
- Bob Crowley: Forlorn Hope, Donner Relief, Grosh Brothers
- Tim Twietmeyer: Forlorn Hope, Donner Relief, Grosh Brothers
Accompanied by veteran endurance athletes who have performed previous history expeditions:
- Jennifer Hemmen:Â Forlorn Hope, Donner Relief, Grosh Brothers
- Elke Reimer: Forlorn Hope, Donner Relief, Grosh Brothers
- Hal Hall:Â Grosh Brothers
It is anticipated it will take the team 5 days to complete the expedition. The route will take them across the Washoe Mountains in western Nevada, around the northern shore of Lake Tahoe, up and over the Sierra Nevada Mountains (8,774′), down to the Middle Fork of the American River and up to the remote mining town of Last Chance, California.  Deep snow and frigid temperatures are anticipated, requiring much of the journey be done in snowshoes and wilderness arctic gear. Progressing 20-30 miles per day, the hikers will set camp each evening close to where they believe several notable camps existed including the Greek Hotel, Duncan Canyon and Last Chance.
1. Appreciate the history, character and motivations of Grosh Brothers, the obstacles they encountered and insights into their psyche throughout their ordeal,
2. Share important new historical information and maps regarding believed route of the Ethan Allen Grosh and Richard Bucke,
3. Honor and reflect upon these unfortunate souls who sacrificed their lives in pursuit of the great American dream.
The adventurers will keep a daily journal during their journey. A film crew will be embedded to capture the conditions, terrain and team interaction. A GPS tracking system will trace the team’s movements live over the internet. Anyone can follow the expedition beginning February 27th.
Photo Gallery
Additional Info
As an expression of respect, each team member will carry cards with the Grosh Brothers, R. Maurice Bucke and other family members and close associates photo and brief bio as a reminder of their struggle. Following the completion of the trek, team members will assemble a presentation of their journey, sharing observations and impressions regarding the trail, conditions and obstacles encountered, and insight into the Grosh Brothers.
