September 1850 Epistle
Deseret News. "Fourth General Epistle of the Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints." September 28, 1850: 124-127.
FOURTH General Epistle of the Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, from the Great Salt Lake Valley, in the State of Deseret, to the Saints scattered throughout the Earth,
GREETING:
Beloved Brethren:--Another opportunity is presented, whereby we may communicate to you what great things the Lord has been doing for his people; for truly has he made the wilderness to bud and blossom like the rose, and the fruit thereof to come forth in its season, while the solitary places of the mountains of Ephraim are made vocal with the praises of Israel's God.
Since our last Epistle of the 12th of April, our Heavenly Father has cheered our hearts, and strengthened our hands; and the earth has yielded an abundant harvest. On the twelfth of May, peach trees, of two years' growth, were in bloom; and several trees of the same age, in various parts of the City, alternately bloomed till the twenty-ninth, when currants, peas, beans, &c, put forth their blossoms, and nature smiled with the prospect of early fruits; but on the 17th of June the snow fell freely on the surrounding mountains, followed by a severe frost on the 18th and a slight one on the 19th, which injured the vines and tender plants; more particularly on the lowest lands, yet we feel confident that this Valley will yet produce the choicest fruits, accustomed to the latitudes, as it now does the richest vegetables.
The peaches in Bro. Young's garden grew finely, until they were accidentally destroyed by the sports of the children; and the California grape is flourishing beautifully in the same garden, and other places in the City.
On the 13th of May we located a farm, one mile by two, near Jordan bridge, for the benefit of the poor, designing to build houses for the accommodation of all such as were not able to build for themselves; but on investigation we learned there were but two persons in the Valley who were unable to provide for themselves, and the contemplated farm was converted into a pasture, for the time being.
The Indians have been more quiet the present season than hitherto; though the Utes continue to steal our horses and cattle more or less, and threaten some. A band of Utes killed a small band of the Snake Indians, some time in the summer, and one white man by the name of Baker was killed by them on the twenty-ninth of May, between the Utah and San Pete vallies, though more recently they have been on their hunts, and manifested less personal hostility; yet, for the safety of the people, the drill and discipline of the Nauvoo Legion is not neglected, for we have none to depend upon for protection but God and his people; and God helps those who try to help themselves.
Emigrants from the States, and from almost all Nations, passing through the States, bound for the gold mines, began to arrive here on the 27th of May, and have continued to arrive till the present time, though most of them have passed a month since. Their number have been much larger than the previous year. Several have arrived in our city, who had been left, by their companions to die by the way side, and many companies and individuals have had contentions among themselves, not very creditable to civilized society, and which, contrary to the wishes of the Magistracy of our State, they have been called upon to settle. It is the urgent wish of all the citizens of Deseret, that travelers would settle their own difficulties; or rather, that they would have no difficulties, so that our officers might pursue their daily avocations in peace. Were there no travelers in our midst, we might soon forget the name of law-suit. As a people we have too much to do to attend to such matters.
Many scores, if not hundreds of these Emigrants on arriving at the Valley, and hearing the Gospel, in many instances for the first time, have been baptized for the remission of their sins, and gone no further; while others have witnessed our location, peace, union and prosperity, and though not professing to believe the doctrine of Christ, are making their way home as fast as possible, to bring their families hither, where they can enjoy health, in a land of civil and religious liberty, where they find themselves free to do right.
June 8th, a mail was received from Kanesville P. O., per hand of Thomas S. Williams, containing the first authentic intelligence from the States this season, and on the 14th commenced the printing of the Deseret News, the first Periodical in the State of Deseret.
The Nauvoo Legion, in uniform, honored the 4th of July with a public parade, which closed with a patriotic address by the Governor of the State.
The Topographical Engineers have closed their surveys for the season, and returned to Washington, as we are informed, by way of Arkansas. Rumors having been circulated in the States, that the Engineers had been received with coldness, and the object of the Expedition had been forcibly opposed by the inhabitants of the Valley, we here give extracts from a letter of Capt. Stansbury, [President of the Corps] to the Editor of the Deseret News, dated July 1st, '50, concerning the matter. "How the rumor became prevalent, I am ignorant, … I take pleasure in declaring that nothing can be further from the truth. We were received by the President and Public Authorities with the greatest courtesy, both officially and personally, and will remember with gratitude the many tokens of kindness and regard we have received from them and the citizens of the place.
"Every facility has been studiously afforded us for the prosecution of our duties; instruments of science frankly and gratuitously loaned, and the able and faithful assistance obtained from their commencement here, of a gentleman, well known as a fearless advocate of your doctrines, and a prominent and influential member of your community." The whole letter is in the 4th No. of the "Deseret News," and a copy of the same may be found in every newspaper in the U. S., that has circulated the rumors which drew forth the letter, provided the Editor thereof is an honest man.
The third Anniversary of the Pioneers into the Valley was celebrated on the twenty-fourth of July, by the Public Assembly, in a manner worthy of the occasion, with oration, addresses, songs of praise and thanksgiving and music, in which the Saints and the Pilgrims to the mines seemed alike to participate. A synopsis of the proceedings were published in the 7, 8, and 9th Nos. of the News.
On the last of July, Brothers Young and Kimball left home on a visit to Utah and San Pete, and returned on the 12th of August; having found a place for a good settlement located a city at San Pete, and noticed several intermediate sites, worthy the attention of smaller colonies, which we anticipate will be settled this fall, making a pleasant and safe communication from this to our most southern habitations. The San Pete settlement will also be strengthened, and others will spread on the North; to and beyond Ogden, so that when the Emigration of this season shall close, there will be a continued line of villages at short distances, for more than 200 miles in extent; and a company is already chartered by the General Assembly of Deseret, for the purpose of running a regular line of coaches between Ogden and San Pete, to commence as early next spring as the traveling will permit, and to be extended as fast as the settlements extend; also, from the Capital to Tooele Co., by way of the Great Salt Lake Bath.
The Government of the Union has been very tardy in rendering any facilities of communication between themselves and the State of Deseret, and having been left to our own resources for information, on the second of August, Br. John Y. Green was dispatched to Kanesville with a mail and on the 15th Elder O. Hyde arrived with a mail from Kane Post Office; also, bringing with him the Frontier Guardian, the only file of newspapers we are in possession of, from any part of the earth for the past year.
The weather has been more cloudy, the nights warmer, and the showers more frequent in the heat of summer, and vegetation more rapid this season, than hitherto, consequently, artificial irrigation has been less needed; which has been a great blessing; for, during the irrigation season, there were not men enough in the Valley to water the immense fields of grain, had it been as dry as some previous seasons.
The crops have been abundant in all the settlements of Deseret, this season; and we have made every exertion to have them secured for the benefit of all: and although, from the best information obtained, we have reason to expect that our population will be strengthened, nearly, if not quite, fifteen thousand, this season, yet we are confident, if all will be prudent, there will be seed grain, and bread sufficient to sustain the whole, till another harvest.
The estimated population of fifteen thousand inhabitants in Deseret, the past year, having raised grain sufficient to sustain the thirty thousand for the coming year, inspires us confidently to believe, that the thirty thousand the coming year, can raise sufficient for sixty thousand the succeeding year, and to this object and end our energies will be exerted, to double our population annually, by the assistance of the Perpetual Emigrating Poor Fund, and otherwise provide for the sustenance of that population.
Viewing the gathering of Israel, which produces an increased population in the valleys of the mountains, an important part of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and one of the most important at the present time; we shall send few, or no Elders abroad to preach the Gospel this fall; but instruct them to raise grain and build houses, and prepare for the Saints, that they may come in flocks, like doves to their windows; and we say arise! to your wagons and your tents, O scattered Israel! ye Saints of the Most High! rich and poor, and gather to the State of Deseret, bringing your ploughs and drills, your reapers and gleaners, your threshers and cleaners, of the most approved patters, so that one man can do the labor of twenty, in the wheat field, and we will soon send the Elders abroad by hundreds and thousands to a harvest of souls, among all nations, and the inhabitants of the earth shall speedily hear of the salvation prepared by Israel's God for His people.
Many of the inhabitants of the City, are leaving their good homes this fall, and taking up land in the country, preparatory for extensive farming operations; and many who are now arriving in our midst, are gathering in companies of tens, twenties, and fifties, to act in concert for mutual protection and assistance, in opening new fields, establishing new settlements, and in preparing to feed the friends we are calling home.
Our messengers who went east this fall, to visit the camps of the Saints, emigrating hither, and report to us their situation, have discovered a new route from Green River, south of the old road, to the Pacific Springs, on which the feed and water are improved; also a new route on the north side of the Sweet Water River; which together with the road on the entire north side of the Platte River, from its mouth westward, as located all the distance, and traveled the most of the way by our Pioneers in 1847, is decidedly the best route for the Saints from the States to Deseret.
Crossing the Missouri River above the mouth of the Platte and passing the Loupe Fork, which is the only river of much consequence to cross on the north of the Platte, and which may be easily bridged, or ferried at still water, and keeping on the entire north of the Platte; also of the Sweet Water, except near its source in the mountains, and there are no natural obstructions on the route till you arrive at Green River; where a ferry may be expected at high water, and good fording is always found late in the season.
Our State House is enclosed; the walls are nearly ready for plastering; and we have no doubt but the several apartments will be ready for their several uses: the sitting of the General Assembly, High School, Printing Office, and Tithing, Post, and Recording Offices, the coming winter. The Warm Spring Bath House is so near completion, that visitants are accommodated at the Baths, and daily and hourly carriages are running from thence to various parts of the city.
There are several extensive store house completed, and near completion in our city, and goods sufficient in quantity and variety, with the exception of groceries, for the necessities of the people, till another season.
Sugar is not only a beverage, a luxury, but it is in its nature and substance, one of the component parts of our animal structure; and a free use thereof is calculated to promote health; and could the Saints have a more abundant supply, they would need less meat.—Should every person in Deseret consume one-third of an ounce of sugar per day, through the coming year, it would require about one hundred and twenty tons, more than has or will be brought by our merchants this season; and according to the best estimate we can make, three hundred tons would be consumed in this State the next year, if it could be obtained.
We anticipate some relief in the sugar market next season, from the culture of the sugar beet, and its manufacture, but this can make but little impression the first year, as we are not informed of more than one or two bushels of the genuine sugar beet seed in the valley, though we know of no country, where a greater quantity of saccharine matter is produced in vegetables than this.
About the middle of August, Brothers Young and Kimball, accompanied by Brother Hyde and others, visited Weber county, and located and gave the plan for the city of Ogden,--near Ogden river, and between that and the Weber river.
The General Assembly has held adjourned sessions occasionally through the summer. The sittings have been very brief, though much important business has been transacted; important to our young and flourishing state. When the constitution of Deseret was adopted, and its boundaries were established therein, the actual settlers of Deseret outnumbered Western California as five to three. Notwithstanding which, a strong exertion has been made by Congress to receive California into the Union; to the exclusion of Deseret, though our petition for admission was equally before them. What the final action of government has been on this matter, we are not informed; neither are we able to say how long the most enlightened people of any state or nation on earth, will bear to be trifled with, by the rejection of the union which they have so strongly urged, without producing alienation of feeling. Be it longer or shorter, the result of that rejection must remain with those who assume the responsibility to reject, and should we never be admitted into the union, we shall leave the event, as we do all other things, in the hands, and at the disposal of a righteous God.
Kane Post Office, in Pottawatomie, is the nearest office to this place, and through which all our business has been transacted with the States and foreign countries.—A U. S. Mail arrived here on the 9th inst., from Independence, Mo., by which we received no news, except through the carrier, by whom we learned that a contract existed for bringing through the Mail once a month; and that President [Zachary] Taylor was dead.
Communications to and from our friends abroad, have been very uncertain in their transmission; and so far as it can be, it is desirable that valuable documents should be remitted by private conveyance.
The Perpetual Emigrating Funds have been judiciously appropriated the past year, under the immediate application of our agent, Bishop Edward Hunter; who is near this place, on his return from Pottawatomie, with a large company of the Poor Saints.
Our annual fall Conference was commenced on the 6th of September, one month earlier than usual, so that the brethren who were obliged to go to the States, need not be exposed on their travels so late in the season; but circumstances, beyond our control, have caused unexpected delay, which, in the end, will result in good.
The Conference was fully attended, and much important business was transacted, as will be seen by reference to the minutes which are published, the most important items dwelt upon, were the Perpetual Emigrating Fund; Education; and a universal sustaining of the general officers of the Church, and of the different quorums thereof, except that Bro. Parry was added to the High Council of this Stake of Zion, in place of Brother Grover, who is absent.
Preparations are making for the establishment of a parent school, or school for qualifying teachers; for primary and infant schools throughout the State; for enclosing the University lands, a platt of about 600 acres, directly east of the City; and for every thing else which may tend to facilitate the improvement of the old and young, in a knowledge of the arts, sciences, and general intelligence.
Several thousand dollars were subscribed to the Perpetual Fund during Conference; and several individuals subscribed one thousand each. Since that time, the Perpetual Emigrating Company, of not less than 13 members, consisting of a President, and Assistants, has been incorporated by an Ordinance of the General Assembly of the State of Deseret, with power to choose their own officers, to wit: a President, Secretary, Treasurer, Recorder, and Agents; and transact all business necessary for the furtherance of emigration; in accordance with the general principles of transacting business among States and Nations.
Brigham Young was unanimously elected President of the Company, who have since completed their organization by electing Willard Richards Secretary; Newel K. Whitney, Treasurer; and Thomas Bullock, Recorder; every member of the Company to give good and sufficient bonds for the faithful performance of their several duties; and all the Co. is responsible for the acts of its officers and agents.
It is confidently reported that there is a great failure of the gold dust, the present season, in California; and many of the donations made to the Perpetual Fund, have and will be made in live stock, grain, &c., and should a proper proportion of cash be wanting, the Company will issue their paper, for the purpose of fitting out emigrants abroad, which paper will always be good; as a sufficiency of the stock will be retained, in deposit, by the Company, to redeem that paper, at any moment; and any person coming to this place, can, with more convenience, bring the paper, than flour, stock, or even gold; which will make it an object for the brethren who have the means, and travelers bound for Deseret, to secure the Company's paper, wherever they can find it; for, with that paper, they can get such articles as travelers most need, when money will not purchase them in this market.
The Twelve Apostles are mostly in their several fields of labor abroad. Elder Orson Hyde has been with us a few weeks on a visit, and is about to return to Kanesville, and continue his labors in the States. Elders P. P. Pratt, Geo. A. Smith, and E. T. Benson are at this place; and, with Wilford Woodruff, who is journeying thither, will spend the winter in the Valley. O. Pratt and F. D. Richards are in England. John Taylor, who left for France; Lorenzo Snow, for Italy; Erastus Snow, for Sweden, last fall, have not been heard from since they arrived at their destination. Amasa Lyman is daily expected, with a large company of the brethren from California. Charles C. Rich is expected to continue his labors in California, and commence a settlement, with such of the brethren as wish to tarry there, in the southern part of the Territory. Orson Pratt is expected here, as early next spring, as circumstances will permit; otherwise, the Apostles are expected to continue in their several appointments, according to previous instruction; extending their labors into other countries, as opportunity presents, and as they shall be directed by the Holy Spirit.
We received a long and cheering communication from Elder O. Pratt by Elder Hyde, and we feel to say to the Saints in England, lift up your hearts and rejoice, for the Lord hath done a great work in your midst, and speedily a greater responsibility must rest upon your shoulders. The reason why a prophet is not without honor, save in his own country, and among his own kin, is the want of faith and confidence among his countrymen. Immense treasures of time and means have been expended by the American brethren, to extend the work in Great Britain; and the time has now come when we must begin to have a care for other nations, and leave you to prosecute the work begun in your midst, without continuing to send you Elders, as heretofore: God is no respecter of persons, and he is just as ready and willing to qualify your own Elders to preach and preside over Conferences, as to qualify men from abroad, and he will do it if you will give them your faith and prayers, and honor them in their calling, as you have done the foreign Elders.
We do not wish the American Elders to leave England, unless they shall particularly desire it, and that desire shall be approved by the Presidency at Liverpool; and we suggest to that Presidency the propriety of electing presiding Elders of Conference, from the native brethren, as soon as circumstances shall render it convenient; and begin to initiate them into the practical duties of their calling; leaving the few American brethren more at liberty to visit the Conferences, and attend to general instructions.
Presiding Bishop Newel K. Whitney, died very suddenly on the 23d inst. Bishop Whitney was one of the oldest members of the Church, who have to deplore the loss of an exemplary member, and a most upright and thorough business man; and while we thus mourn his absence, we are again reminded that the Church of Christ is built upon no man; and that God is able to do his own work.—Bishop Partridge was the first Presiding Bishop in the Church in these Last Days, and died several years since; he was succeeded by Bishop Whitney, who is now gone to the world of spirits; and the voice to all is, be ye also ready.—The health of the people in the Valley is generally good: there have been a few deaths; mostly of Emigrants.
Every possible exertion will be made on our part, and that of the Emigrating Company, to extend the usefulness of the Perpetual Fund in gathering the Saints; and it is important that those who anticipate help therefrom, should understand that the means sent forth is, and will be designed to furnish teams, almost or quite exclusively; and even the cases in which wagons will be furnished, will be rare. The poor, who can live in the States with little clothing, and little or no groceries, &c., can live equally as cheap on the road; and when once here, can procure the comforts of life by their industry. Souls are the articles for the Perpetual Fund to gather home, and that, too, as many as possible; and other things will be attended to in their time and place.
We are under obligation by covenant, firstly to apply the Perpetual Funds gathered in this country, to bring home the poor Saints who were driven from Nauvoo; and as soon as this shall be accomplished, we shall be ready to extend our exertions to other places and countries. Let the European Saints continue to add to their Perpetual Funds, which we doubt not they have commenced according to our previous counsel; and as soon as sufficient shall be collected to remove a suitable company, we will give instructions concerning its application, and emigration will commence.
One year ago, and the Perpetual Fund was not instituted. Returns have not been completed, this fall; but so far as we can judge, they will not now fall much short of $20,000, in the Valley. Let the Saints abroad imitate the example of the Saints here, according to their ability, and let this work continue to go forward with the same progressive ratio it hath hitherto done, and the time will be short, when all the poor and oppressed of Zion will feel its cheering influence, and the cry need no longer be heard, "I would go up to the House of the Lord, but I have not the means."
The Perpetual Emigrating Company consists of Brigham Young, President; Heber C. Kimball, Willard Richards, Orson Hyde, Geo. A. Smith, Ezra T. Benson, Jedediah M. Grant, Daniel H. Wells, Willard Snow, Edward Hunter, Daniel Spencer, Thomas Bullock, John Brown, William Crosby, Amasa Lyman, Charles C. Rich, Lorenzo Young, and Parley P. Pratt, Assistants; Daniel Spencer, Treasurer; in place of N. K. Whitney, deceased. Orson Hyde and John Brown have been appointed Traveling Agents; and will be in the States the coming winter. Orson Pratt and Franklin D. Richards have been appointed Traveling Agents; are located in Liverpool; and their particular field of operations, at present, will be the British Islands.
Thus, brethren, we have given you a brief history of the situation and prospects of the Church in the Wilderness, and the wishes of our Heavenly Father, as made manifest by His spirit dwelling in us, for your edification, comfort and salvation. The signs of the times are highly portentous of a mighty and short work in these last days; and we pray God, the Eternal Father, that he will inspire your hearts with humility, faith and patience, & diligence in every means within your reach, to help roll that work forward, that you may speedily be found in Zion, rejoicing with us, and the Gospel be proclaimed to the ends of the earth in the name of Jesus: Amen.
BRIGHAM YOUNG,
HEBER C. KIMBALL,
WILLARD RICHARDS.
G. S. L. City, Deseret,
September 27, 1850.
FOURTH General Epistle of the Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, from the Great Salt Lake Valley, in the State of Deseret, to the Saints scattered throughout the Earth,
GREETING:
Beloved Brethren:--Another opportunity is presented, whereby we may communicate to you what great things the Lord has been doing for his people; for truly has he made the wilderness to bud and blossom like the rose, and the fruit thereof to come forth in its season, while the solitary places of the mountains of Ephraim are made vocal with the praises of Israel's God.
Since our last Epistle of the 12th of April, our Heavenly Father has cheered our hearts, and strengthened our hands; and the earth has yielded an abundant harvest. On the twelfth of May, peach trees, of two years' growth, were in bloom; and several trees of the same age, in various parts of the City, alternately bloomed till the twenty-ninth, when currants, peas, beans, &c, put forth their blossoms, and nature smiled with the prospect of early fruits; but on the 17th of June the snow fell freely on the surrounding mountains, followed by a severe frost on the 18th and a slight one on the 19th, which injured the vines and tender plants; more particularly on the lowest lands, yet we feel confident that this Valley will yet produce the choicest fruits, accustomed to the latitudes, as it now does the richest vegetables.
The peaches in Bro. Young's garden grew finely, until they were accidentally destroyed by the sports of the children; and the California grape is flourishing beautifully in the same garden, and other places in the City.
On the 13th of May we located a farm, one mile by two, near Jordan bridge, for the benefit of the poor, designing to build houses for the accommodation of all such as were not able to build for themselves; but on investigation we learned there were but two persons in the Valley who were unable to provide for themselves, and the contemplated farm was converted into a pasture, for the time being.
The Indians have been more quiet the present season than hitherto; though the Utes continue to steal our horses and cattle more or less, and threaten some. A band of Utes killed a small band of the Snake Indians, some time in the summer, and one white man by the name of Baker was killed by them on the twenty-ninth of May, between the Utah and San Pete vallies, though more recently they have been on their hunts, and manifested less personal hostility; yet, for the safety of the people, the drill and discipline of the Nauvoo Legion is not neglected, for we have none to depend upon for protection but God and his people; and God helps those who try to help themselves.
Emigrants from the States, and from almost all Nations, passing through the States, bound for the gold mines, began to arrive here on the 27th of May, and have continued to arrive till the present time, though most of them have passed a month since. Their number have been much larger than the previous year. Several have arrived in our city, who had been left, by their companions to die by the way side, and many companies and individuals have had contentions among themselves, not very creditable to civilized society, and which, contrary to the wishes of the Magistracy of our State, they have been called upon to settle. It is the urgent wish of all the citizens of Deseret, that travelers would settle their own difficulties; or rather, that they would have no difficulties, so that our officers might pursue their daily avocations in peace. Were there no travelers in our midst, we might soon forget the name of law-suit. As a people we have too much to do to attend to such matters.
Many scores, if not hundreds of these Emigrants on arriving at the Valley, and hearing the Gospel, in many instances for the first time, have been baptized for the remission of their sins, and gone no further; while others have witnessed our location, peace, union and prosperity, and though not professing to believe the doctrine of Christ, are making their way home as fast as possible, to bring their families hither, where they can enjoy health, in a land of civil and religious liberty, where they find themselves free to do right.
June 8th, a mail was received from Kanesville P. O., per hand of Thomas S. Williams, containing the first authentic intelligence from the States this season, and on the 14th commenced the printing of the Deseret News, the first Periodical in the State of Deseret.
The Nauvoo Legion, in uniform, honored the 4th of July with a public parade, which closed with a patriotic address by the Governor of the State.
The Topographical Engineers have closed their surveys for the season, and returned to Washington, as we are informed, by way of Arkansas. Rumors having been circulated in the States, that the Engineers had been received with coldness, and the object of the Expedition had been forcibly opposed by the inhabitants of the Valley, we here give extracts from a letter of Capt. Stansbury, [President of the Corps] to the Editor of the Deseret News, dated July 1st, '50, concerning the matter. "How the rumor became prevalent, I am ignorant, … I take pleasure in declaring that nothing can be further from the truth. We were received by the President and Public Authorities with the greatest courtesy, both officially and personally, and will remember with gratitude the many tokens of kindness and regard we have received from them and the citizens of the place.
"Every facility has been studiously afforded us for the prosecution of our duties; instruments of science frankly and gratuitously loaned, and the able and faithful assistance obtained from their commencement here, of a gentleman, well known as a fearless advocate of your doctrines, and a prominent and influential member of your community." The whole letter is in the 4th No. of the "Deseret News," and a copy of the same may be found in every newspaper in the U. S., that has circulated the rumors which drew forth the letter, provided the Editor thereof is an honest man.
The third Anniversary of the Pioneers into the Valley was celebrated on the twenty-fourth of July, by the Public Assembly, in a manner worthy of the occasion, with oration, addresses, songs of praise and thanksgiving and music, in which the Saints and the Pilgrims to the mines seemed alike to participate. A synopsis of the proceedings were published in the 7, 8, and 9th Nos. of the News.
On the last of July, Brothers Young and Kimball left home on a visit to Utah and San Pete, and returned on the 12th of August; having found a place for a good settlement located a city at San Pete, and noticed several intermediate sites, worthy the attention of smaller colonies, which we anticipate will be settled this fall, making a pleasant and safe communication from this to our most southern habitations. The San Pete settlement will also be strengthened, and others will spread on the North; to and beyond Ogden, so that when the Emigration of this season shall close, there will be a continued line of villages at short distances, for more than 200 miles in extent; and a company is already chartered by the General Assembly of Deseret, for the purpose of running a regular line of coaches between Ogden and San Pete, to commence as early next spring as the traveling will permit, and to be extended as fast as the settlements extend; also, from the Capital to Tooele Co., by way of the Great Salt Lake Bath.
The Government of the Union has been very tardy in rendering any facilities of communication between themselves and the State of Deseret, and having been left to our own resources for information, on the second of August, Br. John Y. Green was dispatched to Kanesville with a mail and on the 15th Elder O. Hyde arrived with a mail from Kane Post Office; also, bringing with him the Frontier Guardian, the only file of newspapers we are in possession of, from any part of the earth for the past year.
The weather has been more cloudy, the nights warmer, and the showers more frequent in the heat of summer, and vegetation more rapid this season, than hitherto, consequently, artificial irrigation has been less needed; which has been a great blessing; for, during the irrigation season, there were not men enough in the Valley to water the immense fields of grain, had it been as dry as some previous seasons.
The crops have been abundant in all the settlements of Deseret, this season; and we have made every exertion to have them secured for the benefit of all: and although, from the best information obtained, we have reason to expect that our population will be strengthened, nearly, if not quite, fifteen thousand, this season, yet we are confident, if all will be prudent, there will be seed grain, and bread sufficient to sustain the whole, till another harvest.
The estimated population of fifteen thousand inhabitants in Deseret, the past year, having raised grain sufficient to sustain the thirty thousand for the coming year, inspires us confidently to believe, that the thirty thousand the coming year, can raise sufficient for sixty thousand the succeeding year, and to this object and end our energies will be exerted, to double our population annually, by the assistance of the Perpetual Emigrating Poor Fund, and otherwise provide for the sustenance of that population.
Viewing the gathering of Israel, which produces an increased population in the valleys of the mountains, an important part of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and one of the most important at the present time; we shall send few, or no Elders abroad to preach the Gospel this fall; but instruct them to raise grain and build houses, and prepare for the Saints, that they may come in flocks, like doves to their windows; and we say arise! to your wagons and your tents, O scattered Israel! ye Saints of the Most High! rich and poor, and gather to the State of Deseret, bringing your ploughs and drills, your reapers and gleaners, your threshers and cleaners, of the most approved patters, so that one man can do the labor of twenty, in the wheat field, and we will soon send the Elders abroad by hundreds and thousands to a harvest of souls, among all nations, and the inhabitants of the earth shall speedily hear of the salvation prepared by Israel's God for His people.
Many of the inhabitants of the City, are leaving their good homes this fall, and taking up land in the country, preparatory for extensive farming operations; and many who are now arriving in our midst, are gathering in companies of tens, twenties, and fifties, to act in concert for mutual protection and assistance, in opening new fields, establishing new settlements, and in preparing to feed the friends we are calling home.
Our messengers who went east this fall, to visit the camps of the Saints, emigrating hither, and report to us their situation, have discovered a new route from Green River, south of the old road, to the Pacific Springs, on which the feed and water are improved; also a new route on the north side of the Sweet Water River; which together with the road on the entire north side of the Platte River, from its mouth westward, as located all the distance, and traveled the most of the way by our Pioneers in 1847, is decidedly the best route for the Saints from the States to Deseret.
Crossing the Missouri River above the mouth of the Platte and passing the Loupe Fork, which is the only river of much consequence to cross on the north of the Platte, and which may be easily bridged, or ferried at still water, and keeping on the entire north of the Platte; also of the Sweet Water, except near its source in the mountains, and there are no natural obstructions on the route till you arrive at Green River; where a ferry may be expected at high water, and good fording is always found late in the season.
Our State House is enclosed; the walls are nearly ready for plastering; and we have no doubt but the several apartments will be ready for their several uses: the sitting of the General Assembly, High School, Printing Office, and Tithing, Post, and Recording Offices, the coming winter. The Warm Spring Bath House is so near completion, that visitants are accommodated at the Baths, and daily and hourly carriages are running from thence to various parts of the city.
There are several extensive store house completed, and near completion in our city, and goods sufficient in quantity and variety, with the exception of groceries, for the necessities of the people, till another season.
Sugar is not only a beverage, a luxury, but it is in its nature and substance, one of the component parts of our animal structure; and a free use thereof is calculated to promote health; and could the Saints have a more abundant supply, they would need less meat.—Should every person in Deseret consume one-third of an ounce of sugar per day, through the coming year, it would require about one hundred and twenty tons, more than has or will be brought by our merchants this season; and according to the best estimate we can make, three hundred tons would be consumed in this State the next year, if it could be obtained.
We anticipate some relief in the sugar market next season, from the culture of the sugar beet, and its manufacture, but this can make but little impression the first year, as we are not informed of more than one or two bushels of the genuine sugar beet seed in the valley, though we know of no country, where a greater quantity of saccharine matter is produced in vegetables than this.
About the middle of August, Brothers Young and Kimball, accompanied by Brother Hyde and others, visited Weber county, and located and gave the plan for the city of Ogden,--near Ogden river, and between that and the Weber river.
The General Assembly has held adjourned sessions occasionally through the summer. The sittings have been very brief, though much important business has been transacted; important to our young and flourishing state. When the constitution of Deseret was adopted, and its boundaries were established therein, the actual settlers of Deseret outnumbered Western California as five to three. Notwithstanding which, a strong exertion has been made by Congress to receive California into the Union; to the exclusion of Deseret, though our petition for admission was equally before them. What the final action of government has been on this matter, we are not informed; neither are we able to say how long the most enlightened people of any state or nation on earth, will bear to be trifled with, by the rejection of the union which they have so strongly urged, without producing alienation of feeling. Be it longer or shorter, the result of that rejection must remain with those who assume the responsibility to reject, and should we never be admitted into the union, we shall leave the event, as we do all other things, in the hands, and at the disposal of a righteous God.
Kane Post Office, in Pottawatomie, is the nearest office to this place, and through which all our business has been transacted with the States and foreign countries.—A U. S. Mail arrived here on the 9th inst., from Independence, Mo., by which we received no news, except through the carrier, by whom we learned that a contract existed for bringing through the Mail once a month; and that President [Zachary] Taylor was dead.
Communications to and from our friends abroad, have been very uncertain in their transmission; and so far as it can be, it is desirable that valuable documents should be remitted by private conveyance.
The Perpetual Emigrating Funds have been judiciously appropriated the past year, under the immediate application of our agent, Bishop Edward Hunter; who is near this place, on his return from Pottawatomie, with a large company of the Poor Saints.
Our annual fall Conference was commenced on the 6th of September, one month earlier than usual, so that the brethren who were obliged to go to the States, need not be exposed on their travels so late in the season; but circumstances, beyond our control, have caused unexpected delay, which, in the end, will result in good.
The Conference was fully attended, and much important business was transacted, as will be seen by reference to the minutes which are published, the most important items dwelt upon, were the Perpetual Emigrating Fund; Education; and a universal sustaining of the general officers of the Church, and of the different quorums thereof, except that Bro. Parry was added to the High Council of this Stake of Zion, in place of Brother Grover, who is absent.
Preparations are making for the establishment of a parent school, or school for qualifying teachers; for primary and infant schools throughout the State; for enclosing the University lands, a platt of about 600 acres, directly east of the City; and for every thing else which may tend to facilitate the improvement of the old and young, in a knowledge of the arts, sciences, and general intelligence.
Several thousand dollars were subscribed to the Perpetual Fund during Conference; and several individuals subscribed one thousand each. Since that time, the Perpetual Emigrating Company, of not less than 13 members, consisting of a President, and Assistants, has been incorporated by an Ordinance of the General Assembly of the State of Deseret, with power to choose their own officers, to wit: a President, Secretary, Treasurer, Recorder, and Agents; and transact all business necessary for the furtherance of emigration; in accordance with the general principles of transacting business among States and Nations.
Brigham Young was unanimously elected President of the Company, who have since completed their organization by electing Willard Richards Secretary; Newel K. Whitney, Treasurer; and Thomas Bullock, Recorder; every member of the Company to give good and sufficient bonds for the faithful performance of their several duties; and all the Co. is responsible for the acts of its officers and agents.
It is confidently reported that there is a great failure of the gold dust, the present season, in California; and many of the donations made to the Perpetual Fund, have and will be made in live stock, grain, &c., and should a proper proportion of cash be wanting, the Company will issue their paper, for the purpose of fitting out emigrants abroad, which paper will always be good; as a sufficiency of the stock will be retained, in deposit, by the Company, to redeem that paper, at any moment; and any person coming to this place, can, with more convenience, bring the paper, than flour, stock, or even gold; which will make it an object for the brethren who have the means, and travelers bound for Deseret, to secure the Company's paper, wherever they can find it; for, with that paper, they can get such articles as travelers most need, when money will not purchase them in this market.
The Twelve Apostles are mostly in their several fields of labor abroad. Elder Orson Hyde has been with us a few weeks on a visit, and is about to return to Kanesville, and continue his labors in the States. Elders P. P. Pratt, Geo. A. Smith, and E. T. Benson are at this place; and, with Wilford Woodruff, who is journeying thither, will spend the winter in the Valley. O. Pratt and F. D. Richards are in England. John Taylor, who left for France; Lorenzo Snow, for Italy; Erastus Snow, for Sweden, last fall, have not been heard from since they arrived at their destination. Amasa Lyman is daily expected, with a large company of the brethren from California. Charles C. Rich is expected to continue his labors in California, and commence a settlement, with such of the brethren as wish to tarry there, in the southern part of the Territory. Orson Pratt is expected here, as early next spring, as circumstances will permit; otherwise, the Apostles are expected to continue in their several appointments, according to previous instruction; extending their labors into other countries, as opportunity presents, and as they shall be directed by the Holy Spirit.
We received a long and cheering communication from Elder O. Pratt by Elder Hyde, and we feel to say to the Saints in England, lift up your hearts and rejoice, for the Lord hath done a great work in your midst, and speedily a greater responsibility must rest upon your shoulders. The reason why a prophet is not without honor, save in his own country, and among his own kin, is the want of faith and confidence among his countrymen. Immense treasures of time and means have been expended by the American brethren, to extend the work in Great Britain; and the time has now come when we must begin to have a care for other nations, and leave you to prosecute the work begun in your midst, without continuing to send you Elders, as heretofore: God is no respecter of persons, and he is just as ready and willing to qualify your own Elders to preach and preside over Conferences, as to qualify men from abroad, and he will do it if you will give them your faith and prayers, and honor them in their calling, as you have done the foreign Elders.
We do not wish the American Elders to leave England, unless they shall particularly desire it, and that desire shall be approved by the Presidency at Liverpool; and we suggest to that Presidency the propriety of electing presiding Elders of Conference, from the native brethren, as soon as circumstances shall render it convenient; and begin to initiate them into the practical duties of their calling; leaving the few American brethren more at liberty to visit the Conferences, and attend to general instructions.
Presiding Bishop Newel K. Whitney, died very suddenly on the 23d inst. Bishop Whitney was one of the oldest members of the Church, who have to deplore the loss of an exemplary member, and a most upright and thorough business man; and while we thus mourn his absence, we are again reminded that the Church of Christ is built upon no man; and that God is able to do his own work.—Bishop Partridge was the first Presiding Bishop in the Church in these Last Days, and died several years since; he was succeeded by Bishop Whitney, who is now gone to the world of spirits; and the voice to all is, be ye also ready.—The health of the people in the Valley is generally good: there have been a few deaths; mostly of Emigrants.
Every possible exertion will be made on our part, and that of the Emigrating Company, to extend the usefulness of the Perpetual Fund in gathering the Saints; and it is important that those who anticipate help therefrom, should understand that the means sent forth is, and will be designed to furnish teams, almost or quite exclusively; and even the cases in which wagons will be furnished, will be rare. The poor, who can live in the States with little clothing, and little or no groceries, &c., can live equally as cheap on the road; and when once here, can procure the comforts of life by their industry. Souls are the articles for the Perpetual Fund to gather home, and that, too, as many as possible; and other things will be attended to in their time and place.
We are under obligation by covenant, firstly to apply the Perpetual Funds gathered in this country, to bring home the poor Saints who were driven from Nauvoo; and as soon as this shall be accomplished, we shall be ready to extend our exertions to other places and countries. Let the European Saints continue to add to their Perpetual Funds, which we doubt not they have commenced according to our previous counsel; and as soon as sufficient shall be collected to remove a suitable company, we will give instructions concerning its application, and emigration will commence.
One year ago, and the Perpetual Fund was not instituted. Returns have not been completed, this fall; but so far as we can judge, they will not now fall much short of $20,000, in the Valley. Let the Saints abroad imitate the example of the Saints here, according to their ability, and let this work continue to go forward with the same progressive ratio it hath hitherto done, and the time will be short, when all the poor and oppressed of Zion will feel its cheering influence, and the cry need no longer be heard, "I would go up to the House of the Lord, but I have not the means."
The Perpetual Emigrating Company consists of Brigham Young, President; Heber C. Kimball, Willard Richards, Orson Hyde, Geo. A. Smith, Ezra T. Benson, Jedediah M. Grant, Daniel H. Wells, Willard Snow, Edward Hunter, Daniel Spencer, Thomas Bullock, John Brown, William Crosby, Amasa Lyman, Charles C. Rich, Lorenzo Young, and Parley P. Pratt, Assistants; Daniel Spencer, Treasurer; in place of N. K. Whitney, deceased. Orson Hyde and John Brown have been appointed Traveling Agents; and will be in the States the coming winter. Orson Pratt and Franklin D. Richards have been appointed Traveling Agents; are located in Liverpool; and their particular field of operations, at present, will be the British Islands.
Thus, brethren, we have given you a brief history of the situation and prospects of the Church in the Wilderness, and the wishes of our Heavenly Father, as made manifest by His spirit dwelling in us, for your edification, comfort and salvation. The signs of the times are highly portentous of a mighty and short work in these last days; and we pray God, the Eternal Father, that he will inspire your hearts with humility, faith and patience, & diligence in every means within your reach, to help roll that work forward, that you may speedily be found in Zion, rejoicing with us, and the Gospel be proclaimed to the ends of the earth in the name of Jesus: Amen.
BRIGHAM YOUNG,
HEBER C. KIMBALL,
WILLARD RICHARDS.
G. S. L. City, Deseret,
September 27, 1850.