A Woman of History: Tamsen Donner (1801-1847)

It's Women's History Month 2025. And although we completely missed the moment LAST March (our bad), we definitely wanted to do a special episode this year honoring perhaps a lesser-known woman of history: Tamsen Donner. Join host CH as she reflects on why she feels drawn to Tamsen's story of enduring strength and resilience, as well as her appreciation of a pioneering woman who defied some of the more traditional norms of her era while also facing incredible personal tragedy not once but twice during her short life. Although Tamsen is perhaps best known for her selfless acts during the infamous Donner Party expedition, she is just one of many women in history whose unyielding spirit still resonates today, and helps to remind us of the challenges and sacrifices faced by women of the past - and the power of their perseverance that continues to inspire our present.

 

Show Notes

• For those interested in learning more about Tamsen:
  • WikiPedia: Tamsen Donner
  • Tamsen's Letters: Tamsen Donner Letters
  • Article: 'Tamsen Donner: Strong-willed matriarch of the Donner Party' by Mark McLaughlin || YourTahoeGuide.com
  • Book: 'Searching for Tamsen Donner' by Gabrielle Burton
  • Book: 'The Fateful Journey of Tamsen Donner' by Frankye Craig
• The author who CH asked about the viableness of the elusive diary Tamsen supposedly kept during the Donner Party expedition is Ethan Rarick, who wrote 'Desperate Passage: The Donner Party's Perilous Journey West'.
• The full inscription of the plaque dedicated to Tamsen and Elizabeth Donner that is currently at the Donner Memorial Picnic Site of California Highway 89 in Truckee, CA (wh), can be viewed here.
• Donner State Memorial Park is located in the town of Truckee, CA.
• The song, "I Hate it Here" that CH's references is from Taylor Swift's 'The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology' album.