Divine Providence: The Wreck and Rescue of the Julia Ann

“They that go down to the sea . . . these see the works of the Lord, and his wonders in the deep. . . . Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!” —Psalm 107:23–24, 31 Many pioneers’ journey began long before the trail across the plains. Brigham Young University professor Fred Woods’ quest to learn more of these unheralded “sail before the trail” travels unearthed the little-known story of the Julia Ann, which shipwrecked in 1855. A group of Australian saints en route to the Salt Lake Valley was on board the Julia Ann that fateful night, ending with the survivors stranded on a desert island…