Through the first three weeks of January 1847, the Mormon Battalion moved from the Anza-Borrego Desert through Warner’s Pass, arriving at Warner’s Ranch on Jan. 22.
To some extent, circumstances improved, particularly the food and water supplies. Some were able to purchase a hog and enjoy their first pork in quite a while. Others in the Battalion were nearly naked and had to beg for food.
John Trumball Warner, now Juan Jose Warner of Mexico, had this successful cattle ranch as a result of a land grant. Near his ranch is a series of hot springs where Battalion members could bathe, rest and heal from the torturous journey they were pursuing. The ranch subsequently became a way station for travelers on the Southern Emigrant Trail and Butterfield Overland Mail stagecoach. Two original buildings (1849, 1857) have been restored and are open to the public during limited hours.