The dawn of the Fourth of July in Great Salt Lake City began with cannon salutes that broke the slumber of citizens. The sounds of artillery were followed by music, providing a celebration for thousands of residents and westward-moving pilgrims.
At the state house, aged veterans gathered while the Mormon Battalion prepared for their duties on the temple block. Splendid bands traveled through the city in carriages to spread joy during the morning festivities.
A formal escort formed at the tabernacle at 8:15 a.m., consisting of 31 silver-grey veterans representing 31 different states. They were followed by the Mormon Battalion and a company of mounted guards, each preceded by a band.
The procession marched to the house of the governor, where several individuals were in waiting, including H C Kimball, W Richards, O Pratt, G A Smith, W Woodruff, O C Rich, D H Wells, E Hunter, W I Appleby, T Bullock, H Stout, D Spencer, O Spencer, W W Phelps, D D Fullmer, R Cahoon, S M Blair, Z Snow, J L Heywood, L Young, and R Campbell.
During the march, the national flag was unfurled on the flag staff and received both a national salute from cannons and a territorial salute. The music from various bands and the sound of cannons were noted as being particularly joyful for both citizens and strangers in the area.
After the escort reached the tabernacle, they entered through the south doors to the sound of the Star Spangled Banner. Once the escort was seated, the doors were opened to an anxious crowd that quickly filled the spacious hall.
