John Russell left Scotland with his family on May 6, 1862, bound for America. His brother had left the previous year and John had intended to follow shortly after, but the brother drowned in a river while taking a swim, so John's plans were delayed a year. John Russell was a very religious man and was most anxious to bring his family to America. Although he was short of funds, he managed to borrow money from the Immigration Fund, which was to be repaid when John was able. While in Scotland, John preached a great deal, which resulted in his being persecuted — images of Joseph Smith were burned in front of his home and he was referred to as 'Priest Russell'.

They arrived in America six weeks after leaving Scotland and joined the McAllister Company, which was traveling to Utah. Oscar Young and Heber Jacobs' grandfather were among the men of the Company; Ellen Blackwood was the mid-wife, who delivered many babies on the trip without losing a one. She was also John Russell's wife. Jacob Hamblin's son, Duane, was in the Company. John Russell's daughter, Ellen, fell in love with Duane; he had her ride his horse all the way to Utah so she would not have to walk.
On the trek West, the girls would sit up at night and bake bread and prepare food for the next day. At night, the wagons would form a circle for protection and when the evening work was done, the travelers would dance and sing.
They arrived on October 6, 1862, in Riverdale, Utah, where the John Russell family settled.