| Unit Name: | Lot Smith Cavalry Company |
| Dates: | 1861 |
| Country: |  United States |
| Allegiance: | Nauvoo Legion |
| Branch: | Union Army |
| Type: | Cavalry |
| Size: | 100 |
| Battles: | American Civil War |
| Commander1: | Lot Smith |
| Commander1 Label: | Captain |
| Commander2: | Joseph S. Rawlings |
| Commander2 Label: | First Lieutenant |
The Lot Smith Cavalry Company was a military unit that was active during the American Civil War. It was formed from volunteers from the Nauvoo Legion, Utah's territorial militia.[1] [2]
The unit was founded at the request of the War Department. Telegram to Brigham Young:
Brigham Young replied saying:On the day Brigham Young agreed to the government's request,[3] the First Presidency issued detailed instructions on April 30, 1862, regarding the role of the Lot Smith Company. They emphasized the spiritual aspect of their mission, urging the troops to acknowledge divine intervention in their efforts and to prioritize their service over financial compensation. The company was to represent the Church and foster its influence through their conduct, being exemplary in both public and private settings to earn commendation as noble citizens. The presidency also advised against gambling, drinking, and swearing, and stressed kindness toward their animals. They were tasked with improving roads to benefit not only themselves but also mail services and future travelers, highlighting the importance of maintaining effective cross-country communication. Additionally, the presidency instructed that prayers be offered twice daily to seek divine protection and guidance. They signed off their guidance with a note of solidarity, affirming their shared faith and commitment.
Ben Holladay, who managed a significant stage and mail line, expressed his gratitude to Brigham Young via telegram, promising to enhance his services once the Utah volunteers were positioned. This deployment was crucial in keeping the communication lines operational during the Civil War, an essential component of maintaining east-west connectivity, which was vulnerable to disruptions. While Holladay had financial motivations to maintain the routes, the broader sentiment among the Latter-day Saints was that their involvement was divinely inspired. This was affirmed by President Wells shortly after the enlistment, who framed the call to serve as part of a divine plan and a demonstration of their commitment to the United States, despite previous conflicts.[4]
The military march began on May 1, 1862, and was characterized by challenges like severe snow and logistical obstacles. Despite these difficulties, the Lot Smith Company was commended for their resilience and constructive efforts along the way, such as bridge building which greatly aided travel and communication.[5]