“This evening our Guard got intoxicated, we thought it a favorable opportunity to make our escape; knowing that the only object of our enemies was our destruction.” — Joseph Smith¹

While being transferred to a new trial venue, the guards appeared lenient towards Joseph Smith and his companions, and the sheriff watching Joseph indicated that he would look the other way if the prisoners were to escape. Public opinion in Missouri was shifting, with some Missourians uncomfortable with the extermination order against the Saints. One night, after stopping at a way station, the prisoners bought whiskey for their guards, who then became intoxicated. Seizing the opportunity, Joseph and his friends saddled horses and escaped with the help of a sober guard. They traveled east into the night, avoiding main roads to reach safety, and eventually reached Quincy, Illinois on April 22, 1839.²

1. History, 1838–1856, volume C-1, 921, josephsmithpapers.org

2. Saints, Volume 1, Chapter 33, 393; History, 1838–1856, volume C-1, 922-924, josephsmithpapers.org