Eliza R. Snow
Born: 21 January 1804
Called as Relief Society General President: December 1866
Died: 5 December 1887
Called as Relief Society General President: December 1866
Died: 5 December 1887
Biographical Articles
Biographical Articles, Volume 1
Biographical Articles, Volume 4
Young Woman's Journal, June 1891, Eliza R. Snow
Young Woman's Journal, January 1910, Eliza Roxey Snow Smith
Young Woman's Journal, November 1915, Trying Times for the Pioneer Mothers
Relief Society Magazine, April 1916, The Mother of Mothers in Israel - Eliza R. Snow
Young Woman's Journal, February 1917, The Glorious Youthfulness of a Grand Old Age
Relief Society Magazine, January 1918, Revolutionary Patriots - Eliza R. Snow
Relief Society Magazine, March 1920, The Five General Presidents of the Relief Society - Eliza R. Snow (Smith)
Relief Society Magazine, February 1924, Eliza R. Snow
Young Woman's Journal, July 1926, A Tribute of Love
Relief Society Magazine, March 1927, Ode to Aunt Eliza R. Snow
Relief Society Magazine, March 1928, Tribute to Eliza R. Snow
Relief Society Magazine, January 1935, Eliza Roxey Snow
Improvement Era, March 1943, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Improvement Era, April 1943, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Improvement Era, May 1943, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Improvement Era, June 1943, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Improvement Era, July 1943, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Improvement Era, August 1943, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Improvement Era, September 1943, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Improvement Era, October 1943, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Improvement Era, November 1943, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Improvement Era, December 1943, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Improvement Era, January 1944, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Improvement Era, February 1944, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Improvement Era, March 1944, Eliza R. Snow's "Sketch of My Life"
Improvement Era, March 1944, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Relief Society Magazine, March 1944, Sketch of My Life
Improvement Era, April 1944, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Relief Society Magazine, April 1944, Sketch of My Life
Relief Society Magazine, May 1944, Sketch of My Life
Relief Society Magazine, June 1944, Sketch of My Life
Relief Society Magazine, July 1944, Sketch of My Life
Relief Society Magazine, August 1944, Sketch of My Life
Relief Society Magazine, September 1944, Sketch of My Life
Relief Society Magazine, October 1944, Sketch of My Life
Ensign, September 1973, Eliza R. Snow: First Lady of the Pioneers
Liahona, February 2021, "My Heart is Fix'd": Eliza R. Snow's Lifelong Conversion
Biographical Articles, Volume 4
Young Woman's Journal, June 1891, Eliza R. Snow
Young Woman's Journal, January 1910, Eliza Roxey Snow Smith
Young Woman's Journal, November 1915, Trying Times for the Pioneer Mothers
Relief Society Magazine, April 1916, The Mother of Mothers in Israel - Eliza R. Snow
Young Woman's Journal, February 1917, The Glorious Youthfulness of a Grand Old Age
Relief Society Magazine, January 1918, Revolutionary Patriots - Eliza R. Snow
Relief Society Magazine, March 1920, The Five General Presidents of the Relief Society - Eliza R. Snow (Smith)
Relief Society Magazine, February 1924, Eliza R. Snow
Young Woman's Journal, July 1926, A Tribute of Love
Relief Society Magazine, March 1927, Ode to Aunt Eliza R. Snow
Relief Society Magazine, March 1928, Tribute to Eliza R. Snow
Relief Society Magazine, January 1935, Eliza Roxey Snow
Improvement Era, March 1943, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Improvement Era, April 1943, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Improvement Era, May 1943, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Improvement Era, June 1943, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Improvement Era, July 1943, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Improvement Era, August 1943, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Improvement Era, September 1943, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Improvement Era, October 1943, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Improvement Era, November 1943, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Improvement Era, December 1943, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Improvement Era, January 1944, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Improvement Era, February 1944, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Improvement Era, March 1944, Eliza R. Snow's "Sketch of My Life"
Improvement Era, March 1944, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Relief Society Magazine, March 1944, Sketch of My Life
Improvement Era, April 1944, Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Relief Society Magazine, April 1944, Sketch of My Life
Relief Society Magazine, May 1944, Sketch of My Life
Relief Society Magazine, June 1944, Sketch of My Life
Relief Society Magazine, July 1944, Sketch of My Life
Relief Society Magazine, August 1944, Sketch of My Life
Relief Society Magazine, September 1944, Sketch of My Life
Relief Society Magazine, October 1944, Sketch of My Life
Ensign, September 1973, Eliza R. Snow: First Lady of the Pioneers
Liahona, February 2021, "My Heart is Fix'd": Eliza R. Snow's Lifelong Conversion
Jenson, Andrew. "Snow, Eliza R." Biographical Encyclopedia. Volume 1. pg. 693-697.
SNOW, Eliza Roxey, second president of the Relief Societies in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, was born Jan. 21, 1804, in Becket, Berkshire county, Mass., daughter of Oliver Snow and Rosetta L. Pettibone. Her father was a native of Massachusetts and her mother of Connecticut. Before hearing and accepting the gospel of Christ, as revealed through the Prophet Joseph Smith. Eliza’s parents belonged to the Baptists. But they were broad in their views, and hospitable to all good people, whether professors of religion or otherwise. Eliza with her brothers and sisters being carefully trained in habits of industry, economy and strict morality, received also the best of scholastic education that the country then afforded. In her youth, Miss Snow became an expert needle-woman. She also excelled in straw work which was then in great demand for use in the manufacture of hats and bonnets. But she was best known and recognized, even in early life, as a writer of great promise. Her father was a farmer, but much of his time was occupied with public business. And Eliza was often employed as secretary for her father; her natural capabilities rendering her well adapted to such service. While quite young she wrote poems for various publications, and won an enviable reputation among the publishers who were favored with productions from her pen. When but twenty-two years of age, she was solicited through the press to write a requiem for John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, whose simultaneous deaths on the Nation’s Independence day, 1826, afforded a theme well suited to the lofty and patriotic spirit which always characterized Miss Snow’s muse. With the appearance of the poem answering the request, in the publications of the day, the young authoress suddenly found herself becoming famous. She was ushered into the society of learned and distinguished people, among whom were Alexander Campbell, the noted scholar and theologian, and the founder of the Campbellite sect, Sidney Rigdon, and other refined students of the Scriptures. Early in the year 1835 Eliza’s mother and her elder sister, Leonora, having previously joined the Church, visited the Saints at Kirtland. On returning home, their testimony of the truth of Joseph Smith’s divine authority and the doctrines taught by him, caused Eliza to investigate the new religion. She found it true, and became a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, being baptized April 5, 1835. In the following December she removed from Mantua, Portage county, Ohio, where her father’s family had resided for many years, to Kirtland, Ohio, the gathering place of the Saints. There she boarded with the family of the Prophet, and taught a select school for young ladies. What the struggle to her feelings must have been, in leaving her childhood’s home (a place most tenderly and beautifully described in her poem entitled ‘‘My Own Home”), with its cherished inmates, giving up all her worldly prospects, the glowing ambitions which her successes would naturally have fed and heightened, and devoting her life thenceforth to the service of the Lord, with a despised and persecuted people, she pictures as well, perhaps, as it is possible for human tongue to tell, or pen to write, in her immortal poem, “Evening Thoughts, or. What it is to be a Saint.” From that time forward, Miss Snow’s life and labors, in whatever channel they might be directed, were all for the building up of the Kingdom of God. Her thoughts were there; her hands could be employed in no work that had not, in some way, connection with the gospel plan of salvation; no other theme could ever again inspire her muse. In several of her poems, written at an early period of her experience in the Church, is shown how entirely she had withdrawn herself from the allurements of worldly ambitions. In an “Introductory Invocation,” preceding “Two Chapters of the Life of President Joseph Smith,” she wrote: “For thy approval, Lord, shall prompt my pen,” etc. And again, at the commencement of the city of Adam-Ondi-Ahman, “Awake! my slumping minstrel; thou hast lain.” etc. The joy and gratitude she felt afterwards, realizing the divine love which the Father had shown her were diffused through the psalms and hymns which flowed from her pen, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, for the comforting, strengthening and edifying of the Saints. How much her people needed such help as she was from that source enabled to give them, and how great the blessings which were thus received at her hands, although sensed in a large degree, it is impossible to estimate. The appreciative Saints, among whom and for whom she labored, gave her the noble and well merited title of “Zion’s Poetess”—a name of far greater worth to her than any high sounding title which the world, under other circumstances, might sometime have bestowed upon her. Her writings, ever full of the testimony of the truth, have been of inestimable worth in promoting the Interests of the gospel wherever it has been preached among the nations of the earth. Her ‘‘Invocation, or the Eternal Father and Mother,” which commences with, ”O, my Father! thou that dwellest,” it may be said, is sung in nearly all lands and in almost every tongue, and carries conviction to all honest hearts of the truth of the principles it conveys. Soon after her arrival in Kirtland, Miss Snow’s loyalty to the work of the Lord was manifested by her cheerfully giving what means she possessed to aid the building of the Temple there. Eliza’s father also embraced the gospel, and she had the joy of welcoming her parents and her brothers and sisters to Kirtland. In the spring of 1838 the Snow family, Eliza included, left Kirtland, like many others of the persecuted Saints, and traveled west to Adam-Ondi-Ahman. On the way, Eliza remained at Far West for a time, to take care of her brother Lorenzo who was very sick; they were kindly entertained at the home of Elder Sidney Rigdon. When the brother was convalescent they both joined the family at Adam-Ondi-Ahman. In all the trying scenes through which the Church passed, during the dark days of its mobbings and drivings, “Sister Eliza,” as she was best known, cheered and solaced all by her words of heroism, patriotism and unswerving fidelity to the cause of God, both spoken and written. The fertile mind and great heart of this gifted woman seemed ever ready and able to do justice to every occasion in all places. In April, 1839, she wrote, in an “Appeal to Americans,” a poem commencing with “There’s a dark, foul stain on the Eagle’s crest.” In the same month and year, and at the same place, she wrote an address “To the Citizens of Quincy,” a poem full of gratitude and appreciation for kind and humane treatment which the homeless, exiled Saints, for a time, received at their hands. In 1840, still in Quincy, in a poem entitled “Columbia! My Country!” beginning with her own loved land, she takes her reader on an entertaining journey through different countries of the earth. When the Prophet Joseph organized the Relief Society at Nauvoo, on the 17th of March, 1842, Sister Eliza R. Snow was appointed to fill the very responsible position of secretary in that most important organization. She was sealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith in the Celestial Order of Marriage, which includes Plurality of Wives, June 29, 1842; being one of the early converts to that doctrine. After the martyrdom of her husband, June 27, 1844, Sister Eliza was prostrated with grief, and besought the Lord with all the fervency of her soul to permit her to follow the Prophet at once, and not leave her in so dark and wicked a world. And so set was her mind on the matter, that she did not and could not cease that prayer of her heart until the Prophet came to her and told her that she must not continue to supplicate the Lord in that way, for her petition was not in accordance with his design concerning her. Joseph told her that his work upon earth was completed as far as the mortal tabernacle was concerned, but hers was not; the Lord desired her. and so did her husband, to live many years, and assist in carrying on the great Latter-day work which Joseph had been chosen to establish. That she must be of good courage and help to cheer, and lighten the burdens of others. And that she must turn her thoughts away from her own loneliness, and seek to console her people in their bereavement and sorrow. How quickly and how well that brave and heroic woman heeded the admonition of her noble husband, is shown in the fact that four days only after the martyrdom of the Prophet and his brother Hyrum, in a poem dated July 1, 1844, she most vividly and pathetically described the awful tragedy of the assassination, and the exalted characters of the murdered brothers. This poem begins with, “Ye heavens, attend! Let all the earth give ear!” In the same month of July we find her administering consolation to the' wounded and suffering Apostle John Taylor, in a poem commencing with, “Thou Chieftain in Zion!” And soon after, she offered encouragement in a cheering manner to President Brigham Young, in her poem, “A responsible station is surely thine,” etc. Heber C. Kimball, Willard Richards and others of the brethren were also comforted by her cheering words. While songs and hymns full of hope and trust were given without stint to the distressed and defenseless Saints from Sister Eliza R. Snow’s pen, they often awakened a spirit of peace and cheer in the self forgetfulness which they inspired. Nov. 24. 1844, she wrote, “Lines on the Birth of the Infant Son of Mrs. Emma, Widow of the late General Joseph Smith.” Of the Prophet’s mother, “The Venerable Mrs. Lucy Smith,” Sister Eliza wrote a poem full of love and veneration, May, 1845, at Nauvoo. Feb. 19, 1846, after leaving the city of Nauvoo, she wrote “Camp of Israel,” number one, “West side of the Mississippi.” This was a song which the Saints sang with hearty zest. It contains seven verses and a chorus. It commences with, “Although In woods and tents we dwell.” “Camp of Israel,” number two, was written on leaving the first encampment after crossing the Mississippi river, March 1, 1846. Thus all the hard, rough way, "from Kirtland to Salt Lake,” like a “nursing mother” lulling her weary, restless darlings to quiet and repose, or stimulating them to farther exertion by reminding them of promised recompense, did this angelic “Queen of Song” foster and nourish the oft-times sinking spirits of her over-worked and underfed brethren and sisters. Her “Song of the Desert,” was written on the “Bank <»f the Platte river, Aug. 25. 1847.” And farther on, between the Platte and Green rivers, she wrote greetings “To President Brigham Young and Camp,” who were returning to Winter Quarters after their Pioneer entrance into the Valley of the Great Salt Lake, and met the company with which Sister Eliza was traveling. After arriving in Salt Lake valley. Sister Eliza was provided with a home by President Brigham Young, to whom she was married in 1849. And she remained a member of his household from that time until her death. In November, 1847, she wrote to Sisters M. A. Young, V. Kimball and E. A. Whitney a poem entitled “Come to the Valley.” from the Valley of the Great Salt Lake. Sister Eliza was now nearing her prime, being forty-three years of age. Exposures and hardships had racked her constitution, her physical system was reduced to poverty, and for some years she suffered with enfeebled health. When the Endowment House was dedicated in May, 1855, Pres. Brigham Young asked Sister Eliza if she would go and take charge of and preside over the sisters' work therein. In answer she referred to her feeble condition of health, and expressed fears that she would be unable to do justice to so important a mission. Pres. Young assured her that her health should improve and she should grow stronger, and have joy in the labors to which the Lord was calling her. Her faith in the words of the man of God caused her to accept the call, and his promises to her were immediately fulfilled; she held the sacred office then conferred upon her as long as ordinance work was done in the Endowment House. In 1866, when the organization of the Relief Society began to be made general throughout all the Wards and Stakes of Zion, Sister Eliza was set apart as president over the entire sisterhood of the Church. In that position she labored continuously for twenty-one years, until failing health caused her to remain quiet at home, but a short time previous to her death. Her wise and cheering counsel was much sought by her sisters in their private as well as public affairs, and her great heart and mind seemed capable of comprehending, and to a wonderful extent, of correcting whatever difficulties were presented to her. Between herself and her faithful brother, the late President Lorenzo Snow, there ever existed the most tender sisterly and brotherly love. And perhaps no other mission ever assigned to either of them was completed with more entire satisfaction than was their tour to and from Palestine, which they had the privilege of taking together, in 1872-73. in company with Pres. George A. Smith and a small party of Saints. While in the Holy Land, among various other poems, and an extensive correspondence. principally to the “Woman’s Exponent,” Sister Snow wrote an “Apostrophe to Jerusalem,” commencing as follows: “Thou City with a cherished name.” Of the books published by Eliza R. Snow, mention may be made of her first volume of poems, published in 1856, “Correspondence of Palestine Tourists,” compiled and published in 1875; her second volume of poems, published in 1877; a hymn-book, a tune book, and a First and Second Speaker for the Children’s Primary Association, and “Biography and Family Record of Lorenzo Snow,’’ published in 1884. Sister Eliza’s death occurred Dec. 5, 1887, at the Lion House, Salt Lake City, when she was eighty-three years, ten months and fourteen days old. Her remains were interred in Pres. Brigham Young’s private burying ground, on the hill-side northeast of his family residences and the Eagle Gate—L. G. R.
SNOW, Eliza Roxey, second president of the Relief Societies in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, was born Jan. 21, 1804, in Becket, Berkshire county, Mass., daughter of Oliver Snow and Rosetta L. Pettibone. Her father was a native of Massachusetts and her mother of Connecticut. Before hearing and accepting the gospel of Christ, as revealed through the Prophet Joseph Smith. Eliza’s parents belonged to the Baptists. But they were broad in their views, and hospitable to all good people, whether professors of religion or otherwise. Eliza with her brothers and sisters being carefully trained in habits of industry, economy and strict morality, received also the best of scholastic education that the country then afforded. In her youth, Miss Snow became an expert needle-woman. She also excelled in straw work which was then in great demand for use in the manufacture of hats and bonnets. But she was best known and recognized, even in early life, as a writer of great promise. Her father was a farmer, but much of his time was occupied with public business. And Eliza was often employed as secretary for her father; her natural capabilities rendering her well adapted to such service. While quite young she wrote poems for various publications, and won an enviable reputation among the publishers who were favored with productions from her pen. When but twenty-two years of age, she was solicited through the press to write a requiem for John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, whose simultaneous deaths on the Nation’s Independence day, 1826, afforded a theme well suited to the lofty and patriotic spirit which always characterized Miss Snow’s muse. With the appearance of the poem answering the request, in the publications of the day, the young authoress suddenly found herself becoming famous. She was ushered into the society of learned and distinguished people, among whom were Alexander Campbell, the noted scholar and theologian, and the founder of the Campbellite sect, Sidney Rigdon, and other refined students of the Scriptures. Early in the year 1835 Eliza’s mother and her elder sister, Leonora, having previously joined the Church, visited the Saints at Kirtland. On returning home, their testimony of the truth of Joseph Smith’s divine authority and the doctrines taught by him, caused Eliza to investigate the new religion. She found it true, and became a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, being baptized April 5, 1835. In the following December she removed from Mantua, Portage county, Ohio, where her father’s family had resided for many years, to Kirtland, Ohio, the gathering place of the Saints. There she boarded with the family of the Prophet, and taught a select school for young ladies. What the struggle to her feelings must have been, in leaving her childhood’s home (a place most tenderly and beautifully described in her poem entitled ‘‘My Own Home”), with its cherished inmates, giving up all her worldly prospects, the glowing ambitions which her successes would naturally have fed and heightened, and devoting her life thenceforth to the service of the Lord, with a despised and persecuted people, she pictures as well, perhaps, as it is possible for human tongue to tell, or pen to write, in her immortal poem, “Evening Thoughts, or. What it is to be a Saint.” From that time forward, Miss Snow’s life and labors, in whatever channel they might be directed, were all for the building up of the Kingdom of God. Her thoughts were there; her hands could be employed in no work that had not, in some way, connection with the gospel plan of salvation; no other theme could ever again inspire her muse. In several of her poems, written at an early period of her experience in the Church, is shown how entirely she had withdrawn herself from the allurements of worldly ambitions. In an “Introductory Invocation,” preceding “Two Chapters of the Life of President Joseph Smith,” she wrote: “For thy approval, Lord, shall prompt my pen,” etc. And again, at the commencement of the city of Adam-Ondi-Ahman, “Awake! my slumping minstrel; thou hast lain.” etc. The joy and gratitude she felt afterwards, realizing the divine love which the Father had shown her were diffused through the psalms and hymns which flowed from her pen, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, for the comforting, strengthening and edifying of the Saints. How much her people needed such help as she was from that source enabled to give them, and how great the blessings which were thus received at her hands, although sensed in a large degree, it is impossible to estimate. The appreciative Saints, among whom and for whom she labored, gave her the noble and well merited title of “Zion’s Poetess”—a name of far greater worth to her than any high sounding title which the world, under other circumstances, might sometime have bestowed upon her. Her writings, ever full of the testimony of the truth, have been of inestimable worth in promoting the Interests of the gospel wherever it has been preached among the nations of the earth. Her ‘‘Invocation, or the Eternal Father and Mother,” which commences with, ”O, my Father! thou that dwellest,” it may be said, is sung in nearly all lands and in almost every tongue, and carries conviction to all honest hearts of the truth of the principles it conveys. Soon after her arrival in Kirtland, Miss Snow’s loyalty to the work of the Lord was manifested by her cheerfully giving what means she possessed to aid the building of the Temple there. Eliza’s father also embraced the gospel, and she had the joy of welcoming her parents and her brothers and sisters to Kirtland. In the spring of 1838 the Snow family, Eliza included, left Kirtland, like many others of the persecuted Saints, and traveled west to Adam-Ondi-Ahman. On the way, Eliza remained at Far West for a time, to take care of her brother Lorenzo who was very sick; they were kindly entertained at the home of Elder Sidney Rigdon. When the brother was convalescent they both joined the family at Adam-Ondi-Ahman. In all the trying scenes through which the Church passed, during the dark days of its mobbings and drivings, “Sister Eliza,” as she was best known, cheered and solaced all by her words of heroism, patriotism and unswerving fidelity to the cause of God, both spoken and written. The fertile mind and great heart of this gifted woman seemed ever ready and able to do justice to every occasion in all places. In April, 1839, she wrote, in an “Appeal to Americans,” a poem commencing with “There’s a dark, foul stain on the Eagle’s crest.” In the same month and year, and at the same place, she wrote an address “To the Citizens of Quincy,” a poem full of gratitude and appreciation for kind and humane treatment which the homeless, exiled Saints, for a time, received at their hands. In 1840, still in Quincy, in a poem entitled “Columbia! My Country!” beginning with her own loved land, she takes her reader on an entertaining journey through different countries of the earth. When the Prophet Joseph organized the Relief Society at Nauvoo, on the 17th of March, 1842, Sister Eliza R. Snow was appointed to fill the very responsible position of secretary in that most important organization. She was sealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith in the Celestial Order of Marriage, which includes Plurality of Wives, June 29, 1842; being one of the early converts to that doctrine. After the martyrdom of her husband, June 27, 1844, Sister Eliza was prostrated with grief, and besought the Lord with all the fervency of her soul to permit her to follow the Prophet at once, and not leave her in so dark and wicked a world. And so set was her mind on the matter, that she did not and could not cease that prayer of her heart until the Prophet came to her and told her that she must not continue to supplicate the Lord in that way, for her petition was not in accordance with his design concerning her. Joseph told her that his work upon earth was completed as far as the mortal tabernacle was concerned, but hers was not; the Lord desired her. and so did her husband, to live many years, and assist in carrying on the great Latter-day work which Joseph had been chosen to establish. That she must be of good courage and help to cheer, and lighten the burdens of others. And that she must turn her thoughts away from her own loneliness, and seek to console her people in their bereavement and sorrow. How quickly and how well that brave and heroic woman heeded the admonition of her noble husband, is shown in the fact that four days only after the martyrdom of the Prophet and his brother Hyrum, in a poem dated July 1, 1844, she most vividly and pathetically described the awful tragedy of the assassination, and the exalted characters of the murdered brothers. This poem begins with, “Ye heavens, attend! Let all the earth give ear!” In the same month of July we find her administering consolation to the' wounded and suffering Apostle John Taylor, in a poem commencing with, “Thou Chieftain in Zion!” And soon after, she offered encouragement in a cheering manner to President Brigham Young, in her poem, “A responsible station is surely thine,” etc. Heber C. Kimball, Willard Richards and others of the brethren were also comforted by her cheering words. While songs and hymns full of hope and trust were given without stint to the distressed and defenseless Saints from Sister Eliza R. Snow’s pen, they often awakened a spirit of peace and cheer in the self forgetfulness which they inspired. Nov. 24. 1844, she wrote, “Lines on the Birth of the Infant Son of Mrs. Emma, Widow of the late General Joseph Smith.” Of the Prophet’s mother, “The Venerable Mrs. Lucy Smith,” Sister Eliza wrote a poem full of love and veneration, May, 1845, at Nauvoo. Feb. 19, 1846, after leaving the city of Nauvoo, she wrote “Camp of Israel,” number one, “West side of the Mississippi.” This was a song which the Saints sang with hearty zest. It contains seven verses and a chorus. It commences with, “Although In woods and tents we dwell.” “Camp of Israel,” number two, was written on leaving the first encampment after crossing the Mississippi river, March 1, 1846. Thus all the hard, rough way, "from Kirtland to Salt Lake,” like a “nursing mother” lulling her weary, restless darlings to quiet and repose, or stimulating them to farther exertion by reminding them of promised recompense, did this angelic “Queen of Song” foster and nourish the oft-times sinking spirits of her over-worked and underfed brethren and sisters. Her “Song of the Desert,” was written on the “Bank <»f the Platte river, Aug. 25. 1847.” And farther on, between the Platte and Green rivers, she wrote greetings “To President Brigham Young and Camp,” who were returning to Winter Quarters after their Pioneer entrance into the Valley of the Great Salt Lake, and met the company with which Sister Eliza was traveling. After arriving in Salt Lake valley. Sister Eliza was provided with a home by President Brigham Young, to whom she was married in 1849. And she remained a member of his household from that time until her death. In November, 1847, she wrote to Sisters M. A. Young, V. Kimball and E. A. Whitney a poem entitled “Come to the Valley.” from the Valley of the Great Salt Lake. Sister Eliza was now nearing her prime, being forty-three years of age. Exposures and hardships had racked her constitution, her physical system was reduced to poverty, and for some years she suffered with enfeebled health. When the Endowment House was dedicated in May, 1855, Pres. Brigham Young asked Sister Eliza if she would go and take charge of and preside over the sisters' work therein. In answer she referred to her feeble condition of health, and expressed fears that she would be unable to do justice to so important a mission. Pres. Young assured her that her health should improve and she should grow stronger, and have joy in the labors to which the Lord was calling her. Her faith in the words of the man of God caused her to accept the call, and his promises to her were immediately fulfilled; she held the sacred office then conferred upon her as long as ordinance work was done in the Endowment House. In 1866, when the organization of the Relief Society began to be made general throughout all the Wards and Stakes of Zion, Sister Eliza was set apart as president over the entire sisterhood of the Church. In that position she labored continuously for twenty-one years, until failing health caused her to remain quiet at home, but a short time previous to her death. Her wise and cheering counsel was much sought by her sisters in their private as well as public affairs, and her great heart and mind seemed capable of comprehending, and to a wonderful extent, of correcting whatever difficulties were presented to her. Between herself and her faithful brother, the late President Lorenzo Snow, there ever existed the most tender sisterly and brotherly love. And perhaps no other mission ever assigned to either of them was completed with more entire satisfaction than was their tour to and from Palestine, which they had the privilege of taking together, in 1872-73. in company with Pres. George A. Smith and a small party of Saints. While in the Holy Land, among various other poems, and an extensive correspondence. principally to the “Woman’s Exponent,” Sister Snow wrote an “Apostrophe to Jerusalem,” commencing as follows: “Thou City with a cherished name.” Of the books published by Eliza R. Snow, mention may be made of her first volume of poems, published in 1856, “Correspondence of Palestine Tourists,” compiled and published in 1875; her second volume of poems, published in 1877; a hymn-book, a tune book, and a First and Second Speaker for the Children’s Primary Association, and “Biography and Family Record of Lorenzo Snow,’’ published in 1884. Sister Eliza’s death occurred Dec. 5, 1887, at the Lion House, Salt Lake City, when she was eighty-three years, ten months and fourteen days old. Her remains were interred in Pres. Brigham Young’s private burying ground, on the hill-side northeast of his family residences and the Eagle Gate—L. G. R.
Jenson, Andrew. "Snow, Eliza R." Biographical Encyclopedia. Volume 4. pg. 178, 197.
SNOW, Eliza Roxey, secretary of the first Relief Society, organized by the Prophet Joseph Smith in Nauvoo, 111., March 17, 1842, and second general president of the Relief Society (1866-1887) was born Jan. 21, 1804, at Becket, Berkshire Co., Mass., a daughter of Oliver Snow and Rosetta Leonora Pettibone. She was baptized April 5, 1835, in Mantua, Ohio, and came to Utah in September, 1847. She was a brilliant, versatile and highly spiritual woman, a student of literature and a poetess; also an executive and organizer of rare ability. At the age of 22 she wrote for the press a requiem for John Adams and Thomas Jefferson. Her first prize story was published in Cody's Lady's Magazine. She was also the author of a book of poems, and of a number of hymns, including "O My Father". In 1854 she commenced organizing ward Relief Societies and acted as president of all the women's organizations in the Church until 1880, when Pres. John Taylor segregated the different organizations and set her apart as president of the Relief Society. When the Endowment House in Salt Lake City was dedicated in 1855, she was called by Pres. Brigham Young to preside over the women's department. She was also president of the Deseret Hospital Board and was a member of the Polysophical Society founded in 1854 by Lorenzo Snow, her brother, and William Eddington. She went to Palestine in 1872 with the Geo. A. Smith company of missionaries; they returned in 1873. Sister Snow died in Salt Lake City, Dec. 5, 1887. (See also Biographical Encyclopedia, Vol. 1, p. 693.)
SNOW, Eliza Roxey, secretary of the first Relief Society, organized by the Prophet Joseph Smith in Nauvoo, 111., March 17, 1842, and second general president of the Relief Society (1866-1887) was born Jan. 21, 1804, at Becket, Berkshire Co., Mass., a daughter of Oliver Snow and Rosetta Leonora Pettibone. She was baptized April 5, 1835, in Mantua, Ohio, and came to Utah in September, 1847. She was a brilliant, versatile and highly spiritual woman, a student of literature and a poetess; also an executive and organizer of rare ability. At the age of 22 she wrote for the press a requiem for John Adams and Thomas Jefferson. Her first prize story was published in Cody's Lady's Magazine. She was also the author of a book of poems, and of a number of hymns, including "O My Father". In 1854 she commenced organizing ward Relief Societies and acted as president of all the women's organizations in the Church until 1880, when Pres. John Taylor segregated the different organizations and set her apart as president of the Relief Society. When the Endowment House in Salt Lake City was dedicated in 1855, she was called by Pres. Brigham Young to preside over the women's department. She was also president of the Deseret Hospital Board and was a member of the Polysophical Society founded in 1854 by Lorenzo Snow, her brother, and William Eddington. She went to Palestine in 1872 with the Geo. A. Smith company of missionaries; they returned in 1873. Sister Snow died in Salt Lake City, Dec. 5, 1887. (See also Biographical Encyclopedia, Vol. 1, p. 693.)
Barker, Vincy R. "Eliza R. Snow" Young Woman's Journal. June 1891. pg. 428-429.
ELIZA R. SNOW.
VINCY R. HARKER.
Written for the Y. L. M. I. A. Conference of Weber Stake, June 27, 1890.
She was born in Massachusetts,
That blest New England soil,
Where firm in their convictions
Men onward, upward toil.
Puritan blood was in her veins.
And stamped her character
With love, endurance, hope and faith,
All gifts from heaven to her.
Her parents moved to Ohio
When she was yet a child,
And reared her in that distant land,
The then called “western wild."
Here she passed her happy childhood
And won herself a name,
Penning her lofty sentiments
That brought her world-wide fame.
E’en then her thoughts bent heavenward.
To truth her heart inclined;
Many wondered at her brightness,
Her clear, inspired mind.
Just as womanhood approached her,
Joined hands with thoughtful youth,
Then she heard the proclamation
Of the everlasting truth.
Her whole soul filled with wonder,
Her heart leaped high with joy;
Her being grasped with gladness
The gospel we enjoy.
A hope sprang up within her,
A hope beyond the sky,
Of a glorious resurrection
When we reach the land on high.
With the truth her mind expanded,
Gained wisdom from above;
God’s grace her pulses quickened,
Inspired to deeds of love.
With our Prophet she united
And pledged her life to God;
She kept the pledge; unfalteringly
The narrow path she trod.
Then came cruel persecution
To the people of the Lord;
The leaders' lives were taken
For denying not His word.
Mobs plundered Saints and drove them
Across the dreary plain;
God led them to these mountain vales
Where they built up homes again.
Our sister suffered with the rest;
While oppression’s dire hand fell
With hellish fury on the Saints,
Still she whispered “all is well."
While sojourning in these valleys,
Her works we know full well
Were such as made her truly
A “mother in Israel."
Let us strive to be pure, noble,
God-fearing, loving, kind.
As this our beloved sister.
The queen of womankind.
So that when this life is over
And we're laid beneath the sod,
We may have the approbation
Of a just and gracious God.
ELIZA R. SNOW.
VINCY R. HARKER.
Written for the Y. L. M. I. A. Conference of Weber Stake, June 27, 1890.
She was born in Massachusetts,
That blest New England soil,
Where firm in their convictions
Men onward, upward toil.
Puritan blood was in her veins.
And stamped her character
With love, endurance, hope and faith,
All gifts from heaven to her.
Her parents moved to Ohio
When she was yet a child,
And reared her in that distant land,
The then called “western wild."
Here she passed her happy childhood
And won herself a name,
Penning her lofty sentiments
That brought her world-wide fame.
E’en then her thoughts bent heavenward.
To truth her heart inclined;
Many wondered at her brightness,
Her clear, inspired mind.
Just as womanhood approached her,
Joined hands with thoughtful youth,
Then she heard the proclamation
Of the everlasting truth.
Her whole soul filled with wonder,
Her heart leaped high with joy;
Her being grasped with gladness
The gospel we enjoy.
A hope sprang up within her,
A hope beyond the sky,
Of a glorious resurrection
When we reach the land on high.
With the truth her mind expanded,
Gained wisdom from above;
God’s grace her pulses quickened,
Inspired to deeds of love.
With our Prophet she united
And pledged her life to God;
She kept the pledge; unfalteringly
The narrow path she trod.
Then came cruel persecution
To the people of the Lord;
The leaders' lives were taken
For denying not His word.
Mobs plundered Saints and drove them
Across the dreary plain;
God led them to these mountain vales
Where they built up homes again.
Our sister suffered with the rest;
While oppression’s dire hand fell
With hellish fury on the Saints,
Still she whispered “all is well."
While sojourning in these valleys,
Her works we know full well
Were such as made her truly
A “mother in Israel."
Let us strive to be pure, noble,
God-fearing, loving, kind.
As this our beloved sister.
The queen of womankind.
So that when this life is over
And we're laid beneath the sod,
We may have the approbation
Of a just and gracious God.
Wallace, Elen. "Eliza Roxey Snow Smith." Young Woman's Journal. January 1910. pg. 8-13.
Eliza Roxie Snow Smith.
By Elen Wallace.
A close study of the circumstances under which any article is written, either prose or poetry, usually reveals it to have been the outcome to some experience that has affected the writer’s character. It is an expression or exposition of the feelings of the mind and heart at the time it was written. Given the circumstances under which they were written, and the writings, one can trace the growth and development of the character of the writer.
From these two points of view there is great interest in a study of the life and poems of Eliza Roxie Snow Smith, “Zion’s Poetess,” as she was named by the Prophet Joseph Smith.
She was of Puritan birth and training. Her parents, Oliver Snow, of Massachusetts, and Rosetta Leonora Pettibone, of Connecticut, were both of English descent. Eliza, the second child of the family, was born at Becket, Berkshire county, Massachusetts, January 21, 1804. In 1806 the family moved to Mantua, Portage county, Ohio. Here two daughters and three sons were born. By occupation a fanner, Mr. Snow was an educated man, and held positions of public trust in the community. His daughter, Eliza, was his secretary. Very early she began to write. Not wishing to be known she sent her poems to the newspapers under a nom-de-plume. A patriotic poem, “The Fall of Missilonghi (written at the time of the war between Greece and Turkey) was acknowledged to be hers. The people who knew her were surprised at her talent. On July 4th, 1826, two famous Americans, Thos. Jefferson and John Adams, died. Through the press Miss Snow was requested to write their requiem. Other poems brought her more favorable attention and her reputation as a poet began to spread. The future seemed bright with promise of greater public recognition.
Then came the circumstances that changed the current of her life. Mrs. Snow had been very painstaking in the training of her children. Not only were the daughters of the house instructed in all the arts of housewifery—spinning, sewing, mending, cooking, etc., but a careful religious training was added to their general education. Religion appealed to Eliza. She formed the acquaintance of Alexander Campbell and Sidney Rigdon, of the Campbellite church, and with them studied the scriptures. Early in 1835, the elder daughter of the Snow family, a widow with two children, went to Kirtland, then headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She met the Prophet Joseph Smith and was convinced of the truth of his mission. Returning to Mantua she told her sister Eliza she had found the truth.
Further investigation resulted in the baptism of Eliza Roxie Snow in April, 1835, and in December of that year she went to Kirtland. For a year she taught a select school for young ladies at Kirtland and boarded at the home of Joseph Smith, the Prophet.
The more she learned of the principles of the Gospel the deeper became her conviction of their truth. Their perfection appealed to her keen intelligence; their far-reaching power fired her poetic love. The persecutions endured by the Saints roused her deepest sympathy.
After a short visit to her parents, who had joined the Church, she finally decided to give up all other plans for her life and take up her abode with and share the joys and sorrows of the Saints. It was probably at this time that her poem “Evening Thoughts, or. What it is to be a Saint” was written. Read in the light of the events that led up to it one can see how she had counted the cost, made the choice, and the line of conduct she meant to exact of herself in being a Saint:
“But yet, although to be a Saint requires
A noble sacrifice—an arduous toil--
A persevering aim; the great reward
Awaiting the grand consummation will
Repay the price, however costly.”
Returning to Kirtland, Miss Snow became for a time governess to the children of Joseph Smith and companion to his wife. During this time, through conversation with the Prophet and earnest study, she gained a very thorough understanding of the principles of the gospel. Ever afterwards they were the theme of her poems and the subject of her conversation with her most intimate friends. She was present at the dedication of the Kirtland Temple. When the Saints were driven from Kirtland she shared their journeys going, with her father and mother, first to Missouri and
then to Illinois. At Lima, Illinois, she and her sister sewed for a living.
In 1839 Sidney Rigdon sent for Miss Snow to come to Nauvoo and teach his family school. The next seven years, spent in Nauvoo (1839- 1846), developed into full power the ruling principles of her character, made her one of the most prominent women of the Church, and inspired with others the poem on which her fame as a poet will always rest. The time for the accomplishment of the full restoration of the principles of the gospel by the Prophet Joseph was getting short. For that reason new revelations were frequent. Work on the Temple at Nauvoo was rushed. The organization of the Relief Society in March, 1842, was the beginning of the part women were to take in the spread of the gospel. The Prophet’s instructions to the women of the Church, especially those called to be leaders, was very clear and complete. They had a work to do as well as the men, Sister Snow was made secretary of the Relief Society. Constant association with the Prophet, intense love for the gospel and interest in the women’s part led to many deep and earnest talks about the principles of salvation. In 1843 Eliza Roxie Snow became the wife of the Prophet Joseph Smith. The new light that the gospel turned on marriage and motherhood glorified woman. What was her place in the final consummation of God’s plan of salvation? Would she, Eliza Snow Smith, know her mother in the future life? Taking all these soulstirring questions to the Prophet she received from him the light and inspiration that resulted in the writing of the hymn “O My Father.” So great was the inspiration burning within her, as she wrote that it did not leave her for days. And part of it entered the poem, for it has never been read even by the most casual reader without attracting attention.
Read in the light of the circumstances under which it was written one can see it as the culmination of her study of the gospel, her faithfulness in living it, her understanding of her womanhood, and the Fatherhood of God.
1844 brought the death of the Prophet Joseph and his brother Hyrum. Little time was given for the Saints to mourn. Mobs threatened their extermination. The sustaining thought with all was the trust of the outcome to the power of God. Brigham Young took his place as leader. The Temple was completed and the women further instructed in their offices as members of the Church. In February, 1846, the journey westward was begun. The want, the suffering among the poor driven people was enough to keep Eliza Snow Smith alive just to help minister. Had not the Prophet instructed her in her duty towards her sex ? So she lived and suffered and toiled with the “camp of Israel” on its march westward. “Camp of Israel” No. 1 and No. 2, “A Journeying Song,” “The Song of the Desert.” “My First View of a Western Prairie” were written. The Saints made settlements along the way for the benefit of those who came after. With Stephen Markham’s family, Sister Smith traveled as far as Winter Quarters. Here, as a result of exposure and hardship, she fell ill. So very ill did she become that it seemed it would be such an easy matter to let go her hold on life and find rest, as so many others had been forced to do by the wayside. Rut again the inspiration of her husband’s counsel came to her—the place of woman in the spread of the gospel, her mission among her sex. Taking a firmer hold of her waning strength she renewed her determination to do her part and a measure of health came back to her. The remaining part of the journey to the Valley of the Great Salt Lake she made in Jedediah M. Grant’s company, reaching there in October, 1847. Her ministry among the sick and downcast had added testimony and strength to her own faith so that she took up her work as soon as she made her home with Clara Decker Young, rejoicing in the sense of freedom that pervaded her soul. In poems she expressed her reverence for the Priesthood of God as borne by the men who stood at the head of the Church. Traced through the writings of all the years that followed can be plainly seen and felt that reverence of the authority of God. Her heart turned toward the group of faithful women with whom she had labored in Nauvoo: “Come to the Valley” was her call to them. On the arrival of the main body of pioneers, six hundred or more, a liberty pole was erected, and the Stars and Stripes flung to the breeze. Sister Smith voiced the sentiments of the Saints:
‘I love that flag. When in my childish glee--
A prattling girl upon my grandsire’s knee--
T heard him tell strange tales, with valor rife,
How that same flag was bought with blood and life.
And his tall form seemed taller when he said,
‘Child, for that same flag your grandsire fought and bled.’
My young heart felt that every scar he wore,
Caused him to prize the banner more and more,
I caught the flag, and as in years I grew,
I loved that flag; I loved my country, too.
♦♦♦♦♦♦
We had to flee; but in our hasty flight
We grasped the flag with more than mortal might,
*******
We took the flag and journeying to the West,
We wore its motto graven on each breast.”
Does not this have the ring of patriotism in it when one considers the circumstances under which it was written?
From the date of the pioneers reaching Salt Lake there was an almost constant stream of emigrants arriving. The city and surrounding country grew in homes. Wards and Stakes were organized. A place for the administration of the ordinances of the gospel was erected. Then it was that President Brigham Young called and set apart for work in the Church among the women Sister Eliza Roxie Snow Smith and Sister Zina Diantha Young. They were instructed to call others to their aid. So began the work to which the remaining years of Sister Smith’s life were given. She traveled throughout the Stakes of Zion, organizing the Relief Societies and later the Young Ladies’ Mutual Improvement Association, and the Primaries; instructing the sisters in regard to their position, their powers, their responsibilities, blessing them, and teaching them to bless each other. The spirit of their calling rested mightily upon her and her fellow sisters. And during this time she wrote hymns for the Saints to sing, songs for the children, letters of encouragement to friends on missions. Have you a Latter-day Saints hymn book? Look through the index. You will be surprised at the number of familiar hymns— hymns that express your love of the gospel, sacramental hymns, hymns of promise, that bear her name: “The Trials of The Present Day,” “Behold The Great Redeemer Die,” “Zion Prospers, All is Well.” There are many others.
Shown by incidents in her life and very much in her poems and letters is Sister Smith’s love for her brother, Lorenzo Snow. There was never a break in the bond of sympathy and affection during her long life—and circumstances gave it many chances for beautiful expression. Eliza Snow was ten years older than Lorenzo, who was the eldest of the three sons of the family. Naturally he looked up to his gifted sister, and equally big was her interest in the character and career of her first brother. She watched him at school and encouraged him to work. Being a splendid needlewoman she made his suits for special occasions, and he glowed under the praise of the workmanship as commented upon by his friends. When he reached manhood and college time, he had decided to be a soldier. Remembering the perils of life, she feared the outcome but helped him prepare to enter Oberlin College, Ohio. This was about the time she joined the Church. She wrote to him about it. On his way to Oberlin he met David W. Patten, one of the staunchest of the Latter- day Saints. They talked together, and the earnestness of Elder Patten’s testimony made some impression on Lorenzo Snow’s mind. At Oberlin, a Presbyterian school, though he enjoyed his studies and worked hard, he did not feel in harmony with the religion taught. However, he completed his college work there. Just prior to leaving he wrote to Eliza, at Kirtland. Knowing he meant to continue his study of Hebrew she urged him to come to Kirtland to the school in Hebrew which the Prophet Joseph Smith attended. Lorenzo went to Kirtland, studied at the school, investigated the gospel and became a member of the Church. How different, indeed, was the career now opened before him in the necessity of spreading the gospel among mankind. In this life work he had every sympathy of his sister. In his many missions,—to England, to continental Europe, to the Sandwich Islands, she was never failing in her letters of encouragement. She was a beloved aunt to his large family, a devoted temple worker with him for their kindred. On the occasion of family gatherings she always had her speech or poem. And as she watched his powers increase, as the priesthood of God developed him, her joy was full. One of the most fitting of expressions of their mutual affection was the journey together through Palestine and Europe in 1872-1873. With President George A. Smith, Apostle Lorenzo Snow and Eliza R. S. Smith, went to dedicate the land to the regathering of the Jews. The company numbered eight. Eliza Snow Smith and Clara Little were the two women who made the journey. Sister Smith was sixty-nine years old at this time, yet in answer to President George A. Smith’s daily inquiry, “And how have you stood the journey today, Sister Eliza?” Her answer. with a touch of pride in it, was always, “Just as well as anyone else, I think.” And this, too, after a month of all-day horse-back rides and sleeping in tents.
The religious significance of the journey possessed Sister Smith. Into the future when Christ should come again her prophetic spirit soared. Then, too, the joy of walking through the streets made holy by the ministry of the Son of God! The poetic fire burned within her. Her letters voiced her reverence and joy. Later she compiled and published her own and her brother Lorenzo’s letters under the title ‘‘Correspondence of Palestine Tourists?’ Of the poems written on that trip here is part of one:
“I have stood on the shore of the beautiful sea,
The renowned and immortalized Galilee,
When ’twas wrapped in repose, at eventide,
Like a royal queen in her regal pride.
*********
I thought of the present—the past; it seemed
That the silent sea with instruction teemed;
Far often, indeed, the heart can hear
What never in sound has approached the ear.
*******
Again, when the shades of night were gone,
In the clear bright rays of the morning dawn,
I walked on the bank of this self-same sea,
Where once our Redeemer was wont to be.”
Sister Snow took part in the religious services presided over by Geo. A. Smith. Other poems upon Palestine subjects and with the civilization of Europe as their inspiration were written at this time as their journey through Europe brought them recognition from the heads of the different governments.
More energetic than ever in the cause of woman, Sister Smith took up her work when she returned from Palestine. She was interested and a worker in the suffrage cause, an organizer of the woman’s store in Salt Lake City, a constant traveler in the interest of the Relief Society, the Young Ladies’ Mutual Improvement and Primary Associations. Indeed her power of judgment, and discernment received its highest recognition when President John Taylor called her to organize and preside over the General Board of the Relief Society, and with her chose Elmina S. Taylor as president of the Young Ladies’ Mutual Improvement Association, and Louie B. Felt to preside over the Primary Association. She thus fulfilled the mission given to her by her husband, the Prophet Joseph Smith, and perfected the organization for the women of the Church. Perhaps it was this sense of duty done that inspired the poem, “Bury Me Quietly When I Die.” It was written some years before her death which occurred Dec. 5, 1887. Perhaps it was the anticipation that when the call came to her she could let go her hold on life, conscious that it had been spent as her God and her husband had wished it.
♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
“Like a Beacon that rises on ocean’s wave,
There’s a light—there’s a life beyond the grave;
The future is bright, and it beckons me on
Where the noble and pure and brave have gone;
Those who battled for truth with their mind and might,
With their garments clean and their armor bright;
They are dwelling with God in a world on high;
Bury me quietly when I die."
Eliza Roxie Snow Smith.
By Elen Wallace.
A close study of the circumstances under which any article is written, either prose or poetry, usually reveals it to have been the outcome to some experience that has affected the writer’s character. It is an expression or exposition of the feelings of the mind and heart at the time it was written. Given the circumstances under which they were written, and the writings, one can trace the growth and development of the character of the writer.
From these two points of view there is great interest in a study of the life and poems of Eliza Roxie Snow Smith, “Zion’s Poetess,” as she was named by the Prophet Joseph Smith.
She was of Puritan birth and training. Her parents, Oliver Snow, of Massachusetts, and Rosetta Leonora Pettibone, of Connecticut, were both of English descent. Eliza, the second child of the family, was born at Becket, Berkshire county, Massachusetts, January 21, 1804. In 1806 the family moved to Mantua, Portage county, Ohio. Here two daughters and three sons were born. By occupation a fanner, Mr. Snow was an educated man, and held positions of public trust in the community. His daughter, Eliza, was his secretary. Very early she began to write. Not wishing to be known she sent her poems to the newspapers under a nom-de-plume. A patriotic poem, “The Fall of Missilonghi (written at the time of the war between Greece and Turkey) was acknowledged to be hers. The people who knew her were surprised at her talent. On July 4th, 1826, two famous Americans, Thos. Jefferson and John Adams, died. Through the press Miss Snow was requested to write their requiem. Other poems brought her more favorable attention and her reputation as a poet began to spread. The future seemed bright with promise of greater public recognition.
Then came the circumstances that changed the current of her life. Mrs. Snow had been very painstaking in the training of her children. Not only were the daughters of the house instructed in all the arts of housewifery—spinning, sewing, mending, cooking, etc., but a careful religious training was added to their general education. Religion appealed to Eliza. She formed the acquaintance of Alexander Campbell and Sidney Rigdon, of the Campbellite church, and with them studied the scriptures. Early in 1835, the elder daughter of the Snow family, a widow with two children, went to Kirtland, then headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She met the Prophet Joseph Smith and was convinced of the truth of his mission. Returning to Mantua she told her sister Eliza she had found the truth.
Further investigation resulted in the baptism of Eliza Roxie Snow in April, 1835, and in December of that year she went to Kirtland. For a year she taught a select school for young ladies at Kirtland and boarded at the home of Joseph Smith, the Prophet.
The more she learned of the principles of the Gospel the deeper became her conviction of their truth. Their perfection appealed to her keen intelligence; their far-reaching power fired her poetic love. The persecutions endured by the Saints roused her deepest sympathy.
After a short visit to her parents, who had joined the Church, she finally decided to give up all other plans for her life and take up her abode with and share the joys and sorrows of the Saints. It was probably at this time that her poem “Evening Thoughts, or. What it is to be a Saint” was written. Read in the light of the events that led up to it one can see how she had counted the cost, made the choice, and the line of conduct she meant to exact of herself in being a Saint:
“But yet, although to be a Saint requires
A noble sacrifice—an arduous toil--
A persevering aim; the great reward
Awaiting the grand consummation will
Repay the price, however costly.”
Returning to Kirtland, Miss Snow became for a time governess to the children of Joseph Smith and companion to his wife. During this time, through conversation with the Prophet and earnest study, she gained a very thorough understanding of the principles of the gospel. Ever afterwards they were the theme of her poems and the subject of her conversation with her most intimate friends. She was present at the dedication of the Kirtland Temple. When the Saints were driven from Kirtland she shared their journeys going, with her father and mother, first to Missouri and
then to Illinois. At Lima, Illinois, she and her sister sewed for a living.
In 1839 Sidney Rigdon sent for Miss Snow to come to Nauvoo and teach his family school. The next seven years, spent in Nauvoo (1839- 1846), developed into full power the ruling principles of her character, made her one of the most prominent women of the Church, and inspired with others the poem on which her fame as a poet will always rest. The time for the accomplishment of the full restoration of the principles of the gospel by the Prophet Joseph was getting short. For that reason new revelations were frequent. Work on the Temple at Nauvoo was rushed. The organization of the Relief Society in March, 1842, was the beginning of the part women were to take in the spread of the gospel. The Prophet’s instructions to the women of the Church, especially those called to be leaders, was very clear and complete. They had a work to do as well as the men, Sister Snow was made secretary of the Relief Society. Constant association with the Prophet, intense love for the gospel and interest in the women’s part led to many deep and earnest talks about the principles of salvation. In 1843 Eliza Roxie Snow became the wife of the Prophet Joseph Smith. The new light that the gospel turned on marriage and motherhood glorified woman. What was her place in the final consummation of God’s plan of salvation? Would she, Eliza Snow Smith, know her mother in the future life? Taking all these soulstirring questions to the Prophet she received from him the light and inspiration that resulted in the writing of the hymn “O My Father.” So great was the inspiration burning within her, as she wrote that it did not leave her for days. And part of it entered the poem, for it has never been read even by the most casual reader without attracting attention.
Read in the light of the circumstances under which it was written one can see it as the culmination of her study of the gospel, her faithfulness in living it, her understanding of her womanhood, and the Fatherhood of God.
1844 brought the death of the Prophet Joseph and his brother Hyrum. Little time was given for the Saints to mourn. Mobs threatened their extermination. The sustaining thought with all was the trust of the outcome to the power of God. Brigham Young took his place as leader. The Temple was completed and the women further instructed in their offices as members of the Church. In February, 1846, the journey westward was begun. The want, the suffering among the poor driven people was enough to keep Eliza Snow Smith alive just to help minister. Had not the Prophet instructed her in her duty towards her sex ? So she lived and suffered and toiled with the “camp of Israel” on its march westward. “Camp of Israel” No. 1 and No. 2, “A Journeying Song,” “The Song of the Desert.” “My First View of a Western Prairie” were written. The Saints made settlements along the way for the benefit of those who came after. With Stephen Markham’s family, Sister Smith traveled as far as Winter Quarters. Here, as a result of exposure and hardship, she fell ill. So very ill did she become that it seemed it would be such an easy matter to let go her hold on life and find rest, as so many others had been forced to do by the wayside. Rut again the inspiration of her husband’s counsel came to her—the place of woman in the spread of the gospel, her mission among her sex. Taking a firmer hold of her waning strength she renewed her determination to do her part and a measure of health came back to her. The remaining part of the journey to the Valley of the Great Salt Lake she made in Jedediah M. Grant’s company, reaching there in October, 1847. Her ministry among the sick and downcast had added testimony and strength to her own faith so that she took up her work as soon as she made her home with Clara Decker Young, rejoicing in the sense of freedom that pervaded her soul. In poems she expressed her reverence for the Priesthood of God as borne by the men who stood at the head of the Church. Traced through the writings of all the years that followed can be plainly seen and felt that reverence of the authority of God. Her heart turned toward the group of faithful women with whom she had labored in Nauvoo: “Come to the Valley” was her call to them. On the arrival of the main body of pioneers, six hundred or more, a liberty pole was erected, and the Stars and Stripes flung to the breeze. Sister Smith voiced the sentiments of the Saints:
‘I love that flag. When in my childish glee--
A prattling girl upon my grandsire’s knee--
T heard him tell strange tales, with valor rife,
How that same flag was bought with blood and life.
And his tall form seemed taller when he said,
‘Child, for that same flag your grandsire fought and bled.’
My young heart felt that every scar he wore,
Caused him to prize the banner more and more,
I caught the flag, and as in years I grew,
I loved that flag; I loved my country, too.
♦♦♦♦♦♦
We had to flee; but in our hasty flight
We grasped the flag with more than mortal might,
*******
We took the flag and journeying to the West,
We wore its motto graven on each breast.”
Does not this have the ring of patriotism in it when one considers the circumstances under which it was written?
From the date of the pioneers reaching Salt Lake there was an almost constant stream of emigrants arriving. The city and surrounding country grew in homes. Wards and Stakes were organized. A place for the administration of the ordinances of the gospel was erected. Then it was that President Brigham Young called and set apart for work in the Church among the women Sister Eliza Roxie Snow Smith and Sister Zina Diantha Young. They were instructed to call others to their aid. So began the work to which the remaining years of Sister Smith’s life were given. She traveled throughout the Stakes of Zion, organizing the Relief Societies and later the Young Ladies’ Mutual Improvement Association, and the Primaries; instructing the sisters in regard to their position, their powers, their responsibilities, blessing them, and teaching them to bless each other. The spirit of their calling rested mightily upon her and her fellow sisters. And during this time she wrote hymns for the Saints to sing, songs for the children, letters of encouragement to friends on missions. Have you a Latter-day Saints hymn book? Look through the index. You will be surprised at the number of familiar hymns— hymns that express your love of the gospel, sacramental hymns, hymns of promise, that bear her name: “The Trials of The Present Day,” “Behold The Great Redeemer Die,” “Zion Prospers, All is Well.” There are many others.
Shown by incidents in her life and very much in her poems and letters is Sister Smith’s love for her brother, Lorenzo Snow. There was never a break in the bond of sympathy and affection during her long life—and circumstances gave it many chances for beautiful expression. Eliza Snow was ten years older than Lorenzo, who was the eldest of the three sons of the family. Naturally he looked up to his gifted sister, and equally big was her interest in the character and career of her first brother. She watched him at school and encouraged him to work. Being a splendid needlewoman she made his suits for special occasions, and he glowed under the praise of the workmanship as commented upon by his friends. When he reached manhood and college time, he had decided to be a soldier. Remembering the perils of life, she feared the outcome but helped him prepare to enter Oberlin College, Ohio. This was about the time she joined the Church. She wrote to him about it. On his way to Oberlin he met David W. Patten, one of the staunchest of the Latter- day Saints. They talked together, and the earnestness of Elder Patten’s testimony made some impression on Lorenzo Snow’s mind. At Oberlin, a Presbyterian school, though he enjoyed his studies and worked hard, he did not feel in harmony with the religion taught. However, he completed his college work there. Just prior to leaving he wrote to Eliza, at Kirtland. Knowing he meant to continue his study of Hebrew she urged him to come to Kirtland to the school in Hebrew which the Prophet Joseph Smith attended. Lorenzo went to Kirtland, studied at the school, investigated the gospel and became a member of the Church. How different, indeed, was the career now opened before him in the necessity of spreading the gospel among mankind. In this life work he had every sympathy of his sister. In his many missions,—to England, to continental Europe, to the Sandwich Islands, she was never failing in her letters of encouragement. She was a beloved aunt to his large family, a devoted temple worker with him for their kindred. On the occasion of family gatherings she always had her speech or poem. And as she watched his powers increase, as the priesthood of God developed him, her joy was full. One of the most fitting of expressions of their mutual affection was the journey together through Palestine and Europe in 1872-1873. With President George A. Smith, Apostle Lorenzo Snow and Eliza R. S. Smith, went to dedicate the land to the regathering of the Jews. The company numbered eight. Eliza Snow Smith and Clara Little were the two women who made the journey. Sister Smith was sixty-nine years old at this time, yet in answer to President George A. Smith’s daily inquiry, “And how have you stood the journey today, Sister Eliza?” Her answer. with a touch of pride in it, was always, “Just as well as anyone else, I think.” And this, too, after a month of all-day horse-back rides and sleeping in tents.
The religious significance of the journey possessed Sister Smith. Into the future when Christ should come again her prophetic spirit soared. Then, too, the joy of walking through the streets made holy by the ministry of the Son of God! The poetic fire burned within her. Her letters voiced her reverence and joy. Later she compiled and published her own and her brother Lorenzo’s letters under the title ‘‘Correspondence of Palestine Tourists?’ Of the poems written on that trip here is part of one:
“I have stood on the shore of the beautiful sea,
The renowned and immortalized Galilee,
When ’twas wrapped in repose, at eventide,
Like a royal queen in her regal pride.
*********
I thought of the present—the past; it seemed
That the silent sea with instruction teemed;
Far often, indeed, the heart can hear
What never in sound has approached the ear.
*******
Again, when the shades of night were gone,
In the clear bright rays of the morning dawn,
I walked on the bank of this self-same sea,
Where once our Redeemer was wont to be.”
Sister Snow took part in the religious services presided over by Geo. A. Smith. Other poems upon Palestine subjects and with the civilization of Europe as their inspiration were written at this time as their journey through Europe brought them recognition from the heads of the different governments.
More energetic than ever in the cause of woman, Sister Smith took up her work when she returned from Palestine. She was interested and a worker in the suffrage cause, an organizer of the woman’s store in Salt Lake City, a constant traveler in the interest of the Relief Society, the Young Ladies’ Mutual Improvement and Primary Associations. Indeed her power of judgment, and discernment received its highest recognition when President John Taylor called her to organize and preside over the General Board of the Relief Society, and with her chose Elmina S. Taylor as president of the Young Ladies’ Mutual Improvement Association, and Louie B. Felt to preside over the Primary Association. She thus fulfilled the mission given to her by her husband, the Prophet Joseph Smith, and perfected the organization for the women of the Church. Perhaps it was this sense of duty done that inspired the poem, “Bury Me Quietly When I Die.” It was written some years before her death which occurred Dec. 5, 1887. Perhaps it was the anticipation that when the call came to her she could let go her hold on life, conscious that it had been spent as her God and her husband had wished it.
♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
“Like a Beacon that rises on ocean’s wave,
There’s a light—there’s a life beyond the grave;
The future is bright, and it beckons me on
Where the noble and pure and brave have gone;
Those who battled for truth with their mind and might,
With their garments clean and their armor bright;
They are dwelling with God in a world on high;
Bury me quietly when I die."
"Trying Times for the Pioneer Mothers." Young Woman's Journal. November 1915. pg. 712.
Trying Times for the Pioneer Mothers.—Eliza R. Snow says: “I was informed that on the first night of the encampment on Sugar Creek, February 5, 1846, nine children were born into the world, and from that time as we journeyed onward, mothers gave birth to offspring under almost every variety of circumstances imaginable, except those to which they had been accustomed; some in tents, others in wagons—in rain-storms and in snow-storms. I heard of one birth which occurred under the rude shelter of a hut, the sides of which were formed of blankets fastened to poles stuck in the ground, with a bark roof through which the rain was dripping. Kind sisters stood holding dishes to catch the water as it fell, thus protecting the newcomer and its mother from a shower bath as the little innocent first entered on the stage of human life.”[1]
[1] “From Kirtland to Salt Lake,” p. 47.
Trying Times for the Pioneer Mothers.—Eliza R. Snow says: “I was informed that on the first night of the encampment on Sugar Creek, February 5, 1846, nine children were born into the world, and from that time as we journeyed onward, mothers gave birth to offspring under almost every variety of circumstances imaginable, except those to which they had been accustomed; some in tents, others in wagons—in rain-storms and in snow-storms. I heard of one birth which occurred under the rude shelter of a hut, the sides of which were formed of blankets fastened to poles stuck in the ground, with a bark roof through which the rain was dripping. Kind sisters stood holding dishes to catch the water as it fell, thus protecting the newcomer and its mother from a shower bath as the little innocent first entered on the stage of human life.”[1]
[1] “From Kirtland to Salt Lake,” p. 47.
Snow, Eliza R. "The Mother of Mothers in Israel." Relief Society Magazine. April 1916. pg. 182-190.
The Mother of Mothers in Israel. Eliza R. Snow. The study of histories and biographies judiciously perused gives one a liberal education, for not only are all the activities of life herein manifested, but the characters of men and women with the forces and elements which have contributed to successes and failures, are set before the reader with vivid pen-strokes. In the study of the greatest women of modern times, nay, the greatest women of all times, not excepting those Hebrew heroines whose names shine out on the pages of the Bible, we pass naturally from Lucy Mack Smith to her daughter-in-law, Mary Fielding Smith, and then we come face to face with Eliza R. Snow. She had no children of her own, but she was indeed by nature and grace, the mother of all mothers in Israel. She revered motherhood next to fatherhood and her whole life was a dedication to the service of her sex in its most exalted phases of motherhood. Eliza R. Snow was born on the 21st of January, 1804, in Becket, Berkshire County, Massachusetts, into a scholarly and refined household. She had every advantage of education and cultural surroundings. She early showed her poetic gifts and was invited, when only a girl of 22, to write a requiem for John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, whose simultaneous deaths, on July 24, 1826, afforded a worthy theme for the inspiration and lofty grandeur of her gifted, poetic pen. Her father had fought through the whole Revolution, and his stories of the hardships endured and the purpose thereof, were a never failing source of patriotic reverence to his studious daughter. Her parents removed to Mantua, Ohio, and there received the gospel. Eliza was baptized into the Church on the 5th of April, 1835, and she soon removed to Kirtland. She entered the family of the Prophet Joseph Smith as a governess for his children and opened a select school for young ladies in his home. She wrote constantly, and all of her poems were saturated with devotion to her country and to her newly espoused religion. When the Saints settled in Nauvoo the young poetess accompanied them in their travels. What she endured, together with her parents and her noble brother, Lorenzo Snow—who was later made President of the Church—could never be told. Pen could not write nor imagination conceive the difficulties which this delicately nurtured lady experienced in common with the others of her sex who belonged to the hated “Mormon” people. On reaching Nauvoo she still continued her occupation of school teaching, and on the 29th of June, 1842, she was sealed- to the Prophet Joseph Smith. She loved the Prophet Joseph with a deep and wide affection which only such natures may understand. All that others thought about him in honor and praise was reflected in double measure in her own consuming affection for this Prophet of God. She once answered a curious young girl, who had asked her an impertinent question concerning the measure of affection possible for the Prophet to feel under such circumstances: “I could not love my husband if I did not know that his heart was as broad as eternity.” Such sincere and exalted devotion cannot be understood outside of those who have embraced the gospel. So well did she love the Prophet that, although she accepted the generous offer of protection and a home from his best friend and his successor, Brigham Young, after her widowhood, that protection was in name only, and she did not even take the surname of President Young, but was always called by her public name, Eliza R. Snow. When the first Relief Society was organized on March 17, 1842, Eliza R. Snow was chosen as the secretary, on that historic occasion. A little incident which shows the high esteem in which the Prophet held her follows: When the Prophet came into the Relief Society meeting, she asked him concerning the time, and taking out his own watch he laid it upon the table beside her and said, “Here is a timepiece and you may keep it, from me.” That watch was presented by Sister Snow to her beloved friend and nephew, President Joseph F. Smith. (See illustration.) Sister Eliza R. Snow faithfully kept the minutes of the Relief Society meetings held for the next two years in Nauvoo, and the original records are now deposited in the Historian’s office where they are treasured as a rare relic of those days. When the Nauvoo temple was opened just after the martyrdom, Eliza R. Snow was chosen to officiate as one of the High Priestesses in that sacred court. After the Saints were driven out she shared in the dreadful exposures and hardships that followed the expulsion from Nauvoo. She learned to drive an ox team herself, and while resting for a few months in a miserable log house, laid up like children’s cob houses, with cracks in it from one to four inches wide and only a tent covering over the top, Sister Snow was taken sick with chills and fever. This was in Winter Quarters, in August, 1846-7, and here, for some months, her life was despaired of. She did not entirely recover for many years from the dreadful exposures of that awful winter. And yet she sang! oh, how she sang! of love, of life, of faith, hope and charity. The sweetness and the benediction of peace fell like clouds of incense upon every line which she wrote. Her songs were sung around the camp-fire, and by weary men, along unbroken trails; they were crooned over the cradles by tender mothers, and hymned in the crowded meetinghouses of the Saints, while even children voiced her psalms of praise, as they trudged their way to school. Before she left Nauvoo, she wrote, “O, My Father,” one of the most beloved hymns ever written for this people. .And the hymn book discloses for us the wealth of her imagery, the beauty of her meters, and the exalted piety of her muse. She is one of the greatest, if not the greatest, hymn writers that this Church has produced. It would be impossible in the confines of this little sketch, to do anything like justice to her poetic powers or to analyze her as poet and writer. We suggest to the sisters of the Relief Society that they purchase her poems and read them occasionally, not only in their public assemblies, but on the Sabbath days, and in the evening hours of restfulness and reflection. On arriving in Salt Lake City, in Sept., 1847, she was married to President Brigham Young, in 1849, for time only. She lived first in what was known as the Old Log Row, and there lay upon a bed of suffering for a number of years. She had consumption and nearly coughed and spit her lungs and life away, but through it all she was patient and sweet, and gently charitable, never offering one word of complaint nor criticism. When the Lion House was completed, in 1856, she was given her quarters there. In May, 1855, when the Endowment House was opened, President Young asked Sister Eliza R. Snow to officiate as a Priestess in the Endowment House. She expressed fears that her health would not permit her to do justice to so important a mission, but he assured her that her health should improve, and that she should have joy in her labors to which the Lord had called her. About this time Sister Snow came across a book of Dr. Dio. Lewis’s, recommending daily cold baths and plenty of fresh air. She immediately adopted this regime and those who sometimes peeped into her bedroom of a winter morning would find a wooden tub full of water with a thin coating of ice on it before her bed, all ready to be used for a morning ablution. Sister Snow never wholly recovered from the irritating little cough which was the only result from her long siege of consumption. She was an exquisite seamstress. Her embroideries were works of art, and there is still extant a bed-spread embroidered by her, which is even now a thing of beauty. She made many temple robes and other garments for the clothing of the dead. She was never idle. If she were not writing or studying or conversing, you may be sure her hands were busy with some delicate needlework. “She was a marvel of patience. At one time a certain sister turned upon her and administered a bitter tongue lashing. Sister Snow did not reply, and when asked by a by-stander how she could endure such a thing quietly, Sister Snow replied that there was only one injured and that was the person who gave way to such violence of temper. Even if she was generally patient, it was not because she had not the wit nor the quick intelligence to make reply. On one occasion, in the Lion House where Sister Snow always sat on the right hand 'side of President Brigham Young and where they frequently entered into instructing, and inspiring discourse, there had been considerable discussion in the family circle concerning the bringing up of children, to which Sister Snow had contributed: “I notice,” said one of the tart spoken women present, “that it is always old maids and childless women who know most about bringing up children.” Clearing her throat in her usual deliberate way, Sister Snow replied, “I would rather go into the Kingdom of Heaven childless than to bring up one son who would deny the faith,” which fate, as to the son, overtook the tart spoken woman. When President Young wished to have the Relief Society organized completely in all its branches, he gave Sister Eliza R. Snow the mission of assisting the bishops in this great work, and told her to take Sister Zina D. H. Young as her companion. This was in 1866, and from that day to her death, Sister Snow stood at the head of all organization work for women in the Church. President John Taylor organized the General Boards, in 1888, and placed Sister Snow at the head of the Relief Society and the women in the Church. It was under her that all the wondrous departments in sericulture, suffrage, nurse classes, and woman’s newspaper and woman’s hospital, co-operative stores, Women’s Relief Society halls, the saving of grain, and indeed every enterprise and activity known to women even today, germinated, and took root under her beneficent and marvelous organizing powers. Sister Snow visited Palestine, in 1872-3, with her brother. Lorenzo Snow and his party, and wrote a complete account of this in a series of letters which were afterwards published. She also wrote the biography of her brother, President Snow, and many other books, and volumes of poetry. Sister Eliza R. Snow was in most respects the greatest woman this Church has produced. To her gifts as poet, writer, public speaker, high priestess in the temples, and ministering angel* among women, she added the supreme gift of initiation. She knew how to handle women. When she entered a room or an assembly, no matter what condition things may have been in before her entrance, she at once dominated the gathering, and order followed immediately, for the whole essence of her personality was dignity and poise. Strife, petty contention, envy, malice, selfish ambition and worldliness, fled from her presence. She was the high priestess of the religion of Jesus Christ and as such she ministered amongst the people. She was the greatest organizer among the women this Church has ever seen. Others might suggest schemes and plans, but with prophetic poise and essence of values she seized upon the practical features, and instantly put into successful operation every proper suggestion and plan for the salvation of women and for the development of the home. She was ultra-progressive, and yet, with it all, she united a rigid adherence to the vital principles of the relation of the sexes as taught by the gospel. She organized Relief Societies in every town, village and ward. She traveled thousands of miles, and sometimes under the most trying pioneer circumstances, but no complaint ever passed her lips—nothing but rejoicing and words of peace and sweet sobriety. She encouraged women, and often suggested that other women should be put in charge of various departments, leaving them free to develop their own initiative and to carry on the work. There was nothing petty, spiteful or mean about Eliza R. Snow. She measured people accurately, and she had the power to inspire those who came near her, with the desire to do their very best. She had an eloquence born of the lambent flame of inspiration; and when she spoke, her words were so simple, so direct and so impassioned that her hearers caught them breathlessly and treasured them forever in their hearts. She led out in all measures of reform. When President Brigham Young desired the sisters to create their own fashions, and wished them to adopt some local costume, Sister Snow, together with a few equally courageous ones, developed the hideous Deseret costume which was a cross between Mrs. Bloomer’s dress and the clothing of the Oriental women. She braided hats and wore them. She crocheted collars and wore them, and always she believed that the beauty of the raiment of the woman should be the workmanship of her own hands. Supreme among all her characteristics was her reverence for the priesthood. She took no honors to herself. She asked for no personal glory. She recognized the fact that not only should the priesthood be honored above all things in heaven and on the earth, but also she knew that those who were the vicegerents of God upon this earth had offered to women, without suggestion and without request, the highest honors and rights which women have ever enjoyed upon this earth. She would permit no woman to take credit for the organization of the Relief Society which had come as a direct revelation to the Prophet Joseph himself, nor would she allow any woman, much less herself, any honor for the reorganization of that Society in the valleys of the mountains, nor for the inception of the Young Ladies’ Retrenchment, later the Improvement, Association, nor for the Primary Association. Scan her writings, examine her reports, study her recorded speeches, and you will find in them all, that absence of self-glorification, that quick willingness to give to God the glory, and to accord to his servants what earthly credit there may be for the various opportunities given to women and children in this Church. She possessed great initiative, and yet so quietly and modestly did she work that few guessed the springs of their own activity, because she adroitly set them in motion and watched with unselfish joy the successful results. She despised flattery and adulation, nor would she permit herself to be showered with honors. She succeeded completely in losing herself in Christ Jesus. It is this majestic humility which added so much to the sum of her greatness. In and through it all, she was a mother to all mothers. No night was too dark, no distance too great, for her to go out and administer to the sick child or to the discouraged mother. She has waited upon thousands and has washed and anointed multitudes of prospective mothers for their future confinements. Always her voice was lifted in praise and honor for full and complete motherhood. She gloried in the woman who bore children repeatedly and continuously. She would often point out in assemblies the mothers of large families as the bright and beautiful exemplars for the rest of the community. And yet, she had no children of her own. It may be that when eternity unfolds the doors, we shall know why she and other childless wives have been denied this great and priceless blessing. Ye childless mothers, it is only when ye turn your hearts and empty arms to minister to other women blessed and burdened with little children and cares, that ye can bear your burdens of loneliness and sad regret. Eliza R. Snow died on the 5th of December, 1887, in the historic old Lion House. She was attended, in her later sickness, by her beloved friends, Zina D. Young, Lucy B. Young, and Minerva W. Snow. President Lorenzo Snow asked the latter to remain with his sister until the last, and this she did. Sister Snow was tall and slender, with dark eyes and dark brown hair. She was deliberate in speech and manner, and very dignified. Everyone thought of some Hebrew prophetess when she was near. Herself almost without fault, she was never critical of faults in others, requiring only justice for herself. She poured the vial of mercy upon all who came within the radius of her presence. She was and is a pattern for all Latter-day Saint women to emulate. May her rest be glorious. |
NEW PORTRAIT OF ELIZA R. SNOW
In the Salt Lake Temple. Painted by Lewis A. Ramsey. THE PROPHET JOSEPH SMITH’S WATCH.
Given by him to Eliza R. Snow, in 1844. Given by her to President Joseph F. Smith, in 1870. ELIZA R. SNOW, (CENTER), AND HER CLOSE FRIENDS.
Elizabeth Howard (left) and Hannah T. King (right.) |
Talmage, May Booth. "The Glorious Youthfulness of a Grand Old Age." Young Woman's Journal. February 1917. pg. 77-78.
ELIZA R. SNOW.
The later years of Sister Eliza R. Snow furnish instances scarcely less remarkable for activity and achievement than the ones just recorded. Returning from a tour of the Holy Land in her seventieth year, Sister Snow continued her labors of supervising and organizing Relief Societies, Y. L. M. I. Associations, and Primary Associations throughout the stakes and wards of Zion. When seventy-six she was appointed to preside over the women’s organizations of the Church throughout the world— a position she filled with honor and dignity until the time of her death seven years later. It would seem that a responsibility so great would have been sufficient to tax the strength of one whose years were so advanced, yet we find her presiding over the Deseret Hospital and laboring in the St. George Temple and in the Endowment House as the leading Sister. She, with Sister Zina D. H. Young, traveled more than a thousand miles—mostly by team—establishing, encouraging, and instructing the several women’s organizations throughout the Church. Her activities were not confined entirely to the religious field. She took an interest in business as is evidenced by her position as President of the Woman’s Store located in the Constitution Building. Her participation in political affairs is shown by her presiding at a large mass meeting of women, held in the Salt Lake Theatre; and her literary interests are manifest by the publication of her second volume of poems, “Correspondence of Palestine Tourists,” “The First and Second Primary Speaker,” a hymn book and a tune book for the Primary Associations, and “The Biography and Family Record of Lorenzo Snow.” And all this in addition to her constant ministrations among the poor, the needy, and the sick. Her years on earth numbered four score and three.
ELIZA R. SNOW.
The later years of Sister Eliza R. Snow furnish instances scarcely less remarkable for activity and achievement than the ones just recorded. Returning from a tour of the Holy Land in her seventieth year, Sister Snow continued her labors of supervising and organizing Relief Societies, Y. L. M. I. Associations, and Primary Associations throughout the stakes and wards of Zion. When seventy-six she was appointed to preside over the women’s organizations of the Church throughout the world— a position she filled with honor and dignity until the time of her death seven years later. It would seem that a responsibility so great would have been sufficient to tax the strength of one whose years were so advanced, yet we find her presiding over the Deseret Hospital and laboring in the St. George Temple and in the Endowment House as the leading Sister. She, with Sister Zina D. H. Young, traveled more than a thousand miles—mostly by team—establishing, encouraging, and instructing the several women’s organizations throughout the Church. Her activities were not confined entirely to the religious field. She took an interest in business as is evidenced by her position as President of the Woman’s Store located in the Constitution Building. Her participation in political affairs is shown by her presiding at a large mass meeting of women, held in the Salt Lake Theatre; and her literary interests are manifest by the publication of her second volume of poems, “Correspondence of Palestine Tourists,” “The First and Second Primary Speaker,” a hymn book and a tune book for the Primary Associations, and “The Biography and Family Record of Lorenzo Snow.” And all this in addition to her constant ministrations among the poor, the needy, and the sick. Her years on earth numbered four score and three.
"Revolutionary Patriots." Relief Society Magazine. January 1918. pg. 3-6.
Revolutionary Patriots.
ELIZA R. SNOW—ZINA D. H. YOUNG.
Born both in the month of January, Eliza, on January 21, 1804, Zina, January 31, 1821, these two heroines and patriots were destined to travel life’s thorny, yet glorious, way side by side. Both were descendants of revolutionary fathers, both were intensely loyal to country and to God. Both joined the Church in early girlhood, both pioneered in Kirtland, in Nauvoo, and in Utah. Both were sealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith, and both were afterwards married to President Brigham Young. Both were workers in the Endowment House, both were sent out to reorganize the Relief Society in the late 50’s and early 60’s by President Young. Both later occupied the position of President of the General Board of the Relief Society and both women were respected and revered by every Latter-day Saint women, and their memories today are sacredly enshrined in our hearts.
Eliza R. Snow was highly intellectual, a leader and an organizer par excellence. Zina D. H. Young was a tender-hearted nurse and midwife to thousands of her sisters. Eliza was never a mother in the flesh, yet mothered the Church in her own stately and magnificent way. Zina was the essence of motherhood and was all heart, all soul. Eliza was an active ordinance worker in the Nauvoo temple. Zina presided in the Salt Lake temple. Both worked in the Endowment House. Eliza organized, fostered and led out in establishing woman’s co-operative stores, home industry, a hospital for women, a woman’s newspaper, young ladies’ organizations, a primary association for children, with constant reiteration of the necessity of economy and conservation of time, money and vitality in all activities for women and children. Zina was placed at the head of the Silk Association and herself established the successful rearing of cocoons and turning the pro-duct into silk weaves. Both were patterns of conservation, never wasteful in word or deed, always occupied with either hands or brain, often both, yet always calm and deliberate in the midst of life’s most difficult problems. Both also saw the true meaning of serving God by serving mankind. And both also steadily maintained the integrity of the gospel, the divine mission of the Prophet Joseph Smith, and the supreme sacrifice of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Both have gone to meet their righteous and blissful reward. But when the month of January comes around our thoughts turn with loving remembrance to these two gracious and great women leaders and patriots.
ELIZA R. SNOW TO BRIGHAM KIMBALL.
President Heber C. Kimball had a very large and in many respects, a most remarkable family. He was a great prophet himself and his quiet humor, generous imagination and natural eloquence are inherited by many of his posterity. Among the brightest and most promising sons was Brigham Kimball, who died in the flower of his young manhood. Prior to his death he took a mission to Great Britain and while there he received a letter from Sister Eliza R. Snow, which contains inspiring advice just as applicable today as it was then to all young missionaries, closing with some verses written on the same theme. We give extracts here:
G. S. L. City, April 20, ’66.
My Dear Young Brother: My motherly feelings for you, and the high respect which I cherish for your honored parents, is all the apology I shall offer for presuming to address a young gentleman uninvited. No language with which I am acquainted, is sufficient to express the deep interest I feel, not only for yourself as an individual, but for the all-important work in which you are engaged. I have been favored with perusance of some of your letters—4hey are very interesting. I love the spirit in which they are written and I like your natural and easy style of writing.
You find yourself in a school, and thus far, the anticipations of your friends are being realized, i. e., that you would not be a dull scholar. You knew nothing of the world until you went forth as a messenger of salvation, to confront its errors and its traditions. With all its boast of knowledge, how little true knowledge it possesses!
Salt Lake City was quite a mixture before you left—it is getting more and more so. But withal, it is astonishing to see how the Priesthood moves on in its imperial majesty, carrying out the purposes of the Most High, regardless of Satan and his imps.
It is very gratifying to the Saints to look on and see how the Lord handles our enemies. This is one of many striking instances before us. Sometimes the clouds loom up, indicative of storm, but soon again the sky is clear and all is calm. What a lesson it is for us to watch the movements of things, and see the overruling hand of God, not only in the great and momentous occurrences, but also in the common and daily transactions of life. We should indulge in no fear but of doing wrong.
As I am a “Poetess,” I will rhyme a little:
You are blest, my young brother—you’re called in your youth
To go forth to the nations a herald of Truth;
To remove false traditions which fetter and bind--
To declare the glad tidings of peace to mankind.
If you keep yourself humble, and seek to do right,
God will give you great wisdom and clothe you with might.
With great knowledge and skill to outgen’ral your foes,
And you’ll ne’er be confounded by them that oppose.
Hold the reins over self and its passions, secure--
“Touch not—taste not, and handle” not what is impure,
And the favor of God will encircle you round,
And with guerdons of honor your life will be crown’d.
I have tried to cram much in a little space and fear your time and patience both will be too much taxed in deciphering my scribble.
I remember you hinted something about girls all getting married before you return—now I wish to set your heart at rest on this subject. I have a number of pretty nieces—they will not all be married. I never so much wished that I had a few daughters of my own—I assure you I would hold one in reserve. * * * God bless you. and make you mighty through His Spirit is the prayer of
E. R. Snow.
To Brigham Kimball.
Revolutionary Patriots.
ELIZA R. SNOW—ZINA D. H. YOUNG.
Born both in the month of January, Eliza, on January 21, 1804, Zina, January 31, 1821, these two heroines and patriots were destined to travel life’s thorny, yet glorious, way side by side. Both were descendants of revolutionary fathers, both were intensely loyal to country and to God. Both joined the Church in early girlhood, both pioneered in Kirtland, in Nauvoo, and in Utah. Both were sealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith, and both were afterwards married to President Brigham Young. Both were workers in the Endowment House, both were sent out to reorganize the Relief Society in the late 50’s and early 60’s by President Young. Both later occupied the position of President of the General Board of the Relief Society and both women were respected and revered by every Latter-day Saint women, and their memories today are sacredly enshrined in our hearts.
Eliza R. Snow was highly intellectual, a leader and an organizer par excellence. Zina D. H. Young was a tender-hearted nurse and midwife to thousands of her sisters. Eliza was never a mother in the flesh, yet mothered the Church in her own stately and magnificent way. Zina was the essence of motherhood and was all heart, all soul. Eliza was an active ordinance worker in the Nauvoo temple. Zina presided in the Salt Lake temple. Both worked in the Endowment House. Eliza organized, fostered and led out in establishing woman’s co-operative stores, home industry, a hospital for women, a woman’s newspaper, young ladies’ organizations, a primary association for children, with constant reiteration of the necessity of economy and conservation of time, money and vitality in all activities for women and children. Zina was placed at the head of the Silk Association and herself established the successful rearing of cocoons and turning the pro-duct into silk weaves. Both were patterns of conservation, never wasteful in word or deed, always occupied with either hands or brain, often both, yet always calm and deliberate in the midst of life’s most difficult problems. Both also saw the true meaning of serving God by serving mankind. And both also steadily maintained the integrity of the gospel, the divine mission of the Prophet Joseph Smith, and the supreme sacrifice of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Both have gone to meet their righteous and blissful reward. But when the month of January comes around our thoughts turn with loving remembrance to these two gracious and great women leaders and patriots.
ELIZA R. SNOW TO BRIGHAM KIMBALL.
President Heber C. Kimball had a very large and in many respects, a most remarkable family. He was a great prophet himself and his quiet humor, generous imagination and natural eloquence are inherited by many of his posterity. Among the brightest and most promising sons was Brigham Kimball, who died in the flower of his young manhood. Prior to his death he took a mission to Great Britain and while there he received a letter from Sister Eliza R. Snow, which contains inspiring advice just as applicable today as it was then to all young missionaries, closing with some verses written on the same theme. We give extracts here:
G. S. L. City, April 20, ’66.
My Dear Young Brother: My motherly feelings for you, and the high respect which I cherish for your honored parents, is all the apology I shall offer for presuming to address a young gentleman uninvited. No language with which I am acquainted, is sufficient to express the deep interest I feel, not only for yourself as an individual, but for the all-important work in which you are engaged. I have been favored with perusance of some of your letters—4hey are very interesting. I love the spirit in which they are written and I like your natural and easy style of writing.
You find yourself in a school, and thus far, the anticipations of your friends are being realized, i. e., that you would not be a dull scholar. You knew nothing of the world until you went forth as a messenger of salvation, to confront its errors and its traditions. With all its boast of knowledge, how little true knowledge it possesses!
Salt Lake City was quite a mixture before you left—it is getting more and more so. But withal, it is astonishing to see how the Priesthood moves on in its imperial majesty, carrying out the purposes of the Most High, regardless of Satan and his imps.
It is very gratifying to the Saints to look on and see how the Lord handles our enemies. This is one of many striking instances before us. Sometimes the clouds loom up, indicative of storm, but soon again the sky is clear and all is calm. What a lesson it is for us to watch the movements of things, and see the overruling hand of God, not only in the great and momentous occurrences, but also in the common and daily transactions of life. We should indulge in no fear but of doing wrong.
As I am a “Poetess,” I will rhyme a little:
You are blest, my young brother—you’re called in your youth
To go forth to the nations a herald of Truth;
To remove false traditions which fetter and bind--
To declare the glad tidings of peace to mankind.
If you keep yourself humble, and seek to do right,
God will give you great wisdom and clothe you with might.
With great knowledge and skill to outgen’ral your foes,
And you’ll ne’er be confounded by them that oppose.
Hold the reins over self and its passions, secure--
“Touch not—taste not, and handle” not what is impure,
And the favor of God will encircle you round,
And with guerdons of honor your life will be crown’d.
I have tried to cram much in a little space and fear your time and patience both will be too much taxed in deciphering my scribble.
I remember you hinted something about girls all getting married before you return—now I wish to set your heart at rest on this subject. I have a number of pretty nieces—they will not all be married. I never so much wished that I had a few daughters of my own—I assure you I would hold one in reserve. * * * God bless you. and make you mighty through His Spirit is the prayer of
E. R. Snow.
To Brigham Kimball.
"The Five General Presidents of the Relief Society - Eliza R. Snow (Smith)." Relief Society Magazine. March 1920. pg. 129-131.
The Five General Presidents of the Relief Society
ELIZA R. SNOW (SMITH).
President Eliza R. Snow, the second General President of the Relief Society, was born of Puritan parents, in Becket, Berkshire county, Mass., Jan. 21, 1804.
She inherited the graces, gifts, and powers of a literary ancestry, together with the somewhat austere' dignity and rigid righteousness bequeathed by her Puritan birthright. Educated to the limited extent possible to girls in those early days, Miss Snow excelled in the domestic arts of needle work and straw work, but developing early a strong poetic tendency. Her wise parents encouraged the cultivation of her unusual gifts. She wrote a requiem for the press on the simultaneous deaths of John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, Independence day, 1826, which was much praised and which gave her entrance into the eastern literary fields. She suddenly found herself becoming famous. Among her learned and distinguished friends were Alexander Campbell, the noted scholar, theologian, and founder of the Campbellite sect, now called Christians. Sidney Rigdon was another of her early friends.
Miss Snow accepted the gospel and was baptized April 5, 1835. She removed from Mantua, Portage county, Ohio, where her father lived, to Kirtland, Ohio. She boarded with the family of the Prophet Joseph Smith, in Kirtland, and taught a select school for young ladies. She was, perhaps, the first woman school teacher in the Church. She cheerfully gave all her means to aid in the building of the Kirtland temple. When her parents accepted the gospel and came to Kirtland, her joy was full. Accompanying them in the spring of 1838, Eliza left Kirtland with the persecuted Saints, remained at Far West for a time to care for her brother Lorenzo, who was very sick at the home of Elder Rigdon. In 1840 she was in Quincy, but soon after removed to Nauvoo and again she was an inmate of the home of the Prophet Joseph Smith. She was sealed to that great prophet in the celestial order of marriage, June 29, 1842, being one of the first plural wives in this generation.
When the Relief Society was organized on the 17th day of March, 1842, Eliza R. Snow was one of the first women chosen by the prophet to take part in that great organization. She was chosen as secretary and continued in that capacity until the martyrdom which, temporarily dissolved the Society. An incident of that occasion is interesting. She had no timepiece, and the prophet noting that laid his own handsome gold watch on the table for her use, presenting it as a gift from himself. She gave that watch to Pres. Joseph F. Smith, whose son Joseph Fielding Smith, now owns it.
The death of her husband prostrated Eliza with grief, and a lingering disease found a willing victim. For a number of years she was an invalid. She came with the second company of pioneers to the valley in 1847, and was treated with utmost tenderness and consideration by all in the company.
Sister Eliza accepted a home under the roof of President Brigham Young, to whom she was married in name, in 1849, but she was still delicate and bed-ridden most of the time for several years.
We quote from her sketch in Jenson’s “Biographical Encyclopedia”: “When the Endowment House was dedicated in May, 1855, President Brigham Young asked Sister Eliza if she would go and take charge of and preside over the sisters’ work therein. In answer she referred to her feeble condition of health, and expressed fears that she would be unable to do justice to so important a mission. President Young assured her that her health should improve and she should grow stronger, and have joy in the labors to which the Lord was calling her. Her faith in the words of the man of God caused her to accept the call, and his promises to her were immediately fulfilled; she held the sacred office then conferred upon her as long as ordinance work was done in the Endowment House. In 1866, when the organization of the Relief Society began to be made general through all the wards and stakes of Zion, Sister Eliza was set apart as president over the entire sisterhood of the Church. In that position she labored continuously for twenty-one years, but failing health caused her to remain quiet at home, but a short time previous to her death.” She died in the Lion House, Dec. 5, 1887. She was buried—one of the three so honored—in the private enclosure on the hillside where Brigham Young himself lies.
Words are inadequate to portray the influence exercised by this majestic woman upon the history of the Church. For many, many years she was the ensample of courage, loyalty, faith, reverence, possessing a wonderful personality, with a broad vision which included all public possibilities of the womanhood of this Church. She was, perhaps, the greatest woman organizer this Church or this generation produced. All outgrowths of the Relief Society were fostered if not inspired and instituted through her beneficent and unselfish labor, yet she took no honor to herself. Above every quality she possessed obedience to the counsel of the Priesthood, which glowed like a hidden lamp in her soul, radiating to the utmost bounds of the stakes and wards of a Church who loved her teachings, who sang her songs, and who blessed her memory daily on the altar of domestic prayer and praise.
Without child herself, she mothered the children of all the people. Severe to her own stern soul, she was tenderness and sympathy itself to the sick, the wayward, the poor, or the weak in faith, nursing everywhere when the sick were without help, and clothing the dead with her own skillful yet pitiful hands. While all the Relief Society women will remember her as their great and unsurpassed leader, a whole people recall her best through her minstrelsy and her literary genius. Her matchless hymn, “Oh My Father!” is the epic of a sex and of a great people.
Every teaching of the gospel, all its fundamental truths, were motifs for her poetic harp, which gave forth such divine harmonies that they will forever be a part of our public worship as well as of the intimate home life of God’s people in latter days. The hymn book is a silent and eternal tribute to her powers, her gifts, and her intelligence. Best of all her gifts was her selfless immolation upon the altar of her sex, nay, of her Savior! The prophet was her head, her earthly inspiration, and is now her eternal companion.
The study of her life will renew a spring of faith and hope in the heart of any woman.
The Five General Presidents of the Relief Society
ELIZA R. SNOW (SMITH).
President Eliza R. Snow, the second General President of the Relief Society, was born of Puritan parents, in Becket, Berkshire county, Mass., Jan. 21, 1804.
She inherited the graces, gifts, and powers of a literary ancestry, together with the somewhat austere' dignity and rigid righteousness bequeathed by her Puritan birthright. Educated to the limited extent possible to girls in those early days, Miss Snow excelled in the domestic arts of needle work and straw work, but developing early a strong poetic tendency. Her wise parents encouraged the cultivation of her unusual gifts. She wrote a requiem for the press on the simultaneous deaths of John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, Independence day, 1826, which was much praised and which gave her entrance into the eastern literary fields. She suddenly found herself becoming famous. Among her learned and distinguished friends were Alexander Campbell, the noted scholar, theologian, and founder of the Campbellite sect, now called Christians. Sidney Rigdon was another of her early friends.
Miss Snow accepted the gospel and was baptized April 5, 1835. She removed from Mantua, Portage county, Ohio, where her father lived, to Kirtland, Ohio. She boarded with the family of the Prophet Joseph Smith, in Kirtland, and taught a select school for young ladies. She was, perhaps, the first woman school teacher in the Church. She cheerfully gave all her means to aid in the building of the Kirtland temple. When her parents accepted the gospel and came to Kirtland, her joy was full. Accompanying them in the spring of 1838, Eliza left Kirtland with the persecuted Saints, remained at Far West for a time to care for her brother Lorenzo, who was very sick at the home of Elder Rigdon. In 1840 she was in Quincy, but soon after removed to Nauvoo and again she was an inmate of the home of the Prophet Joseph Smith. She was sealed to that great prophet in the celestial order of marriage, June 29, 1842, being one of the first plural wives in this generation.
When the Relief Society was organized on the 17th day of March, 1842, Eliza R. Snow was one of the first women chosen by the prophet to take part in that great organization. She was chosen as secretary and continued in that capacity until the martyrdom which, temporarily dissolved the Society. An incident of that occasion is interesting. She had no timepiece, and the prophet noting that laid his own handsome gold watch on the table for her use, presenting it as a gift from himself. She gave that watch to Pres. Joseph F. Smith, whose son Joseph Fielding Smith, now owns it.
The death of her husband prostrated Eliza with grief, and a lingering disease found a willing victim. For a number of years she was an invalid. She came with the second company of pioneers to the valley in 1847, and was treated with utmost tenderness and consideration by all in the company.
Sister Eliza accepted a home under the roof of President Brigham Young, to whom she was married in name, in 1849, but she was still delicate and bed-ridden most of the time for several years.
We quote from her sketch in Jenson’s “Biographical Encyclopedia”: “When the Endowment House was dedicated in May, 1855, President Brigham Young asked Sister Eliza if she would go and take charge of and preside over the sisters’ work therein. In answer she referred to her feeble condition of health, and expressed fears that she would be unable to do justice to so important a mission. President Young assured her that her health should improve and she should grow stronger, and have joy in the labors to which the Lord was calling her. Her faith in the words of the man of God caused her to accept the call, and his promises to her were immediately fulfilled; she held the sacred office then conferred upon her as long as ordinance work was done in the Endowment House. In 1866, when the organization of the Relief Society began to be made general through all the wards and stakes of Zion, Sister Eliza was set apart as president over the entire sisterhood of the Church. In that position she labored continuously for twenty-one years, but failing health caused her to remain quiet at home, but a short time previous to her death.” She died in the Lion House, Dec. 5, 1887. She was buried—one of the three so honored—in the private enclosure on the hillside where Brigham Young himself lies.
Words are inadequate to portray the influence exercised by this majestic woman upon the history of the Church. For many, many years she was the ensample of courage, loyalty, faith, reverence, possessing a wonderful personality, with a broad vision which included all public possibilities of the womanhood of this Church. She was, perhaps, the greatest woman organizer this Church or this generation produced. All outgrowths of the Relief Society were fostered if not inspired and instituted through her beneficent and unselfish labor, yet she took no honor to herself. Above every quality she possessed obedience to the counsel of the Priesthood, which glowed like a hidden lamp in her soul, radiating to the utmost bounds of the stakes and wards of a Church who loved her teachings, who sang her songs, and who blessed her memory daily on the altar of domestic prayer and praise.
Without child herself, she mothered the children of all the people. Severe to her own stern soul, she was tenderness and sympathy itself to the sick, the wayward, the poor, or the weak in faith, nursing everywhere when the sick were without help, and clothing the dead with her own skillful yet pitiful hands. While all the Relief Society women will remember her as their great and unsurpassed leader, a whole people recall her best through her minstrelsy and her literary genius. Her matchless hymn, “Oh My Father!” is the epic of a sex and of a great people.
Every teaching of the gospel, all its fundamental truths, were motifs for her poetic harp, which gave forth such divine harmonies that they will forever be a part of our public worship as well as of the intimate home life of God’s people in latter days. The hymn book is a silent and eternal tribute to her powers, her gifts, and her intelligence. Best of all her gifts was her selfless immolation upon the altar of her sex, nay, of her Savior! The prophet was her head, her earthly inspiration, and is now her eternal companion.
The study of her life will renew a spring of faith and hope in the heart of any woman.
Hodapp, Minnie Iverson. "Eliza R. Snow." Relief Society Magazine. February 1924. pg. 59.
Eliza R. Snow
By Minnie Iverson Hodapp, Second Poem to Receive Honorable Mention in the Eliza Roxey Snow Memorial Contest
Cherished name, fairest fame!
Chaste and guileless each aim
Of thy life in its truth-radiant splendor;
And I fain would attain
To a pure, sky-born strain,
Whilst I sing thee in melody tender,
As clearer and clearer these measures of love
Soar nearer and nearer to treasures above!
Voice of prayer on the air;
Breathing balm everywhere,--
Sacred hymns of our gospel eternal!
From thy hearth, sprang their birth
And they utter thy worth--
To Zion thy love-gift supernal!
Subduing our sadness by faith in His word,
Enhancing our gladness, our joy in the Lord!
Faithful saint, free from taint
Of dismay or doubt-plaint--
Sweet diligence, hope, and endurance;
Ever-bright beacon light,
Through the darkness of night,
In Christ thy soul-balm and assurance!
Thy warm hand of friendship, thy ministering voice,
In pure gospel-kinship, where all might rejoice!
High of mien and serene,
Gentle, womanly queen,
Whose virtues and graces were blended
In harmony sweet
Forever replete
With gifts of the spirit attended.
Attuned heart and mind to each gospel decree,
Thy gold all refined—one desire—"Follow Me."
Cherished name, fairest fame!
Chaste and guileless each aim
Of thy life in its truth-radiant splendor,
And I fain would attain
To a pure, sky-born strain,
Whilst I sing thee in melody tender.
Ah, I would I might wing me to treasures above,
That I clearer might sing thee in measures of love!
Eliza R. Snow
By Minnie Iverson Hodapp, Second Poem to Receive Honorable Mention in the Eliza Roxey Snow Memorial Contest
Cherished name, fairest fame!
Chaste and guileless each aim
Of thy life in its truth-radiant splendor;
And I fain would attain
To a pure, sky-born strain,
Whilst I sing thee in melody tender,
As clearer and clearer these measures of love
Soar nearer and nearer to treasures above!
Voice of prayer on the air;
Breathing balm everywhere,--
Sacred hymns of our gospel eternal!
From thy hearth, sprang their birth
And they utter thy worth--
To Zion thy love-gift supernal!
Subduing our sadness by faith in His word,
Enhancing our gladness, our joy in the Lord!
Faithful saint, free from taint
Of dismay or doubt-plaint--
Sweet diligence, hope, and endurance;
Ever-bright beacon light,
Through the darkness of night,
In Christ thy soul-balm and assurance!
Thy warm hand of friendship, thy ministering voice,
In pure gospel-kinship, where all might rejoice!
High of mien and serene,
Gentle, womanly queen,
Whose virtues and graces were blended
In harmony sweet
Forever replete
With gifts of the spirit attended.
Attuned heart and mind to each gospel decree,
Thy gold all refined—one desire—"Follow Me."
Cherished name, fairest fame!
Chaste and guileless each aim
Of thy life in its truth-radiant splendor,
And I fain would attain
To a pure, sky-born strain,
Whilst I sing thee in melody tender.
Ah, I would I might wing me to treasures above,
That I clearer might sing thee in measures of love!
Tingey, Martha H. "A Tribute of Love." Young Woman's Journal. July 1926. pg. 419-421.
A Tribute of Love
By President Martha H. Tingey
OUR Pioneer Mothers! God bless their memory! It has been my valued privilege to be in the company of many of the leading women of the Church since my early childhood. They were close friends and associates of my mother and I have accompanied her to their homes many times and she has entertained them in her home on many occasions, so that I had a good opportunity to become well acquainted with them and learn to love and revere them.
Let us remember that those women were not only Utah Pioneers, but may well be called the Pioneer mothers of Mormonism. They joined the Church in early days and passed through the trials and persecutions in Missouri and Illinois, and were among those who were forced to leave their beloved Nauvoo with their husbands and little children and seek a home in the great unknown west.
Those men and women were all comparatively young people in the full strength and vigor of mind and body, with refined tastes and high ideals. All the drivings and mobbings they experienced could not rob them of those sterling qualities. The character and qualifications of the Pioneers of 1847 have always impressed me strongly. There were college men, tradesmen of all kinds, carpenters, masons, shoemakers and farmers, all of whom were necessary to the building up of a new and isolated community. The women were skilled in domestic duties, needlework, spinning, weaving, etc; and above all they loved God and had the courage to maintain their ideals and be true to the faith even in the face of poverty and severe trials. This has always been a testimony to me that the hand of the Lord was in the settling of the valleys of the Rocky Mountains.
I wish to introduce to our Mutual girls the eight women who were first called to organize the Young Ladies’ Retrenchment . Association (the name being changed later to Young Ladies’ Mutual Improvement Association), so that they may become somewhat acquainted with them and learn to appreciate and honor them.
Sister Eliza R. Snow was the eldest in years and experience in public work. She was dignified, refined, cultured, and possessed fine executive ability. She was an inspired poet and able writer, two volumes of her poems having been published. Her faith in God was unwavering and though she was not blessed with children she assisted many mothers in rearing their children, to many of whom she was very dear. She was eminently fitted to stand at the head of the Relief Society when it was reorganized about the year 1859.
Sister Zina D. H. Young, the third General President of the Relief Society was a different type, but a capable leader. She was a sweet, motherly, spiritual-minded woman. She never tired of ministering to the sick and afflicted, comforting, cheering and sustaining those in sorrow and trouble. She not only possessed those beautiful qualities which endeared her to all, but she also had faith, courage and will-power to a marked degree. I will relate one incident:
Aunt Zina, as we were all happy to call her, had a more than usual aversion to worms of all kinds. She said she thought it was born in her. When President Young became convinced that the silk industry could be made a success in Utah he started a cocoonery in the attic of his farm house, with thousands of silk worms. He then asked Aunt Zina to take charge of the work. She felt at first it would be impossible. But, anxious to do anything asked of her to help advance the interest of the community, she accepted the appointment and with determined effort so far overcame her aversion to the worms that she was able to make a success of the undertaking.
Such was the character of all of those pioneer women. They would never shrink from trying to perform any duty, however hard or disagreeable.
Aunt Zina was the mother of three children, all of whom do her honor. She also took the place of mother to four children of a deceased wife of President Young, who loved her as their own mother.
Sister M. Isabella Horne was another woman who deserves special mention. She was naturally a homemaker, the devoted mother of a large family. She brought three little sons with her when she left Nauvoo, and nine other children were born to her after that time. She had the satisfaction of seeing eleven of them married in the House of the Lord. One died in infancy.
It was quite a trial to Sister Horne to be called into public life, and especially to be asked to address a congregation. But she did not shirk when requested to take her part, and her faith in God and her strong will-power carried her through the ordeal and she became in time a very fluent speaker. She was a woman of strong character, good executive ability and excellent judgment. She was a lover of books from her childhood, and was a great reader with a splendid memory, so that her mind was well-stored with useful knowledge. In her youthful days books were not easily obtained so the Bible became almost her constant companion. So well versed was she in the scriptures that she was often referred to as the woman scriptorian.
Sister Horne was Treasurer of the General Board of the Relief Society for several years and was President of the Relief Society of the Salt Lake Stake for twenty-five years.
Sister Bathsheba W. Smith was another of the faithful, sterling characters of the early days, and became the fourth General President of the Relief Society. Sister Smith had a great sorrow come to her during the troublesome time of the settlement in the valley. Her only son was killed by Indians when far from home in the Southern part of Utah, leaving her with only one child—a daughter who lived to be a comfort to her and who reared a large family.
Sister Smith was especially qualified for Temple work and was appointed to take charge of the women’s work in the Salt Lake Temple when it was opened in 1893.
Sister Margaret Smoot, Marinda Hyde, Phebe Woodruff and Sarah M. Kimball were also strong, intelligent, capable women and devoted mothers. They with the four above mentioned were selected to organize the Young Ladies’ Retrenchment Association in the various wards and stakes. Sister Horne was chosen President of this special committee and the other seven sisters were Counselors and Secretary. It was quite a responsibility placed upon their shoulders when they were past middle age, and had reared their families under very trying conditions, in comparative poverty, with few of the comforts of life, to be called upon to go forth and assist in educating and training the young women throughout the Church in principles of the Gospel. But with characteristic courage and exceeding great faith that their Heavenly Father would bless their efforts and assist them in the mission to which they had been called, they cheerfully went forth in the performance of that duty, and we today have cause to “rise up and call them blessed.”
These sisters traveled from Idaho to St. George to effect the organizations, most of the journeys being made with teams and light or heavy wagons as the case might be, in all kinds of weather, as carriages were not plentiful in those early days.
Many other women were called to assist in this pioneer movement, but space will not permit of special mention in this article. In the Y. L. M. I. A. History will be found sketches of these noble women.
A Tribute of Love
By President Martha H. Tingey
OUR Pioneer Mothers! God bless their memory! It has been my valued privilege to be in the company of many of the leading women of the Church since my early childhood. They were close friends and associates of my mother and I have accompanied her to their homes many times and she has entertained them in her home on many occasions, so that I had a good opportunity to become well acquainted with them and learn to love and revere them.
Let us remember that those women were not only Utah Pioneers, but may well be called the Pioneer mothers of Mormonism. They joined the Church in early days and passed through the trials and persecutions in Missouri and Illinois, and were among those who were forced to leave their beloved Nauvoo with their husbands and little children and seek a home in the great unknown west.
Those men and women were all comparatively young people in the full strength and vigor of mind and body, with refined tastes and high ideals. All the drivings and mobbings they experienced could not rob them of those sterling qualities. The character and qualifications of the Pioneers of 1847 have always impressed me strongly. There were college men, tradesmen of all kinds, carpenters, masons, shoemakers and farmers, all of whom were necessary to the building up of a new and isolated community. The women were skilled in domestic duties, needlework, spinning, weaving, etc; and above all they loved God and had the courage to maintain their ideals and be true to the faith even in the face of poverty and severe trials. This has always been a testimony to me that the hand of the Lord was in the settling of the valleys of the Rocky Mountains.
I wish to introduce to our Mutual girls the eight women who were first called to organize the Young Ladies’ Retrenchment . Association (the name being changed later to Young Ladies’ Mutual Improvement Association), so that they may become somewhat acquainted with them and learn to appreciate and honor them.
Sister Eliza R. Snow was the eldest in years and experience in public work. She was dignified, refined, cultured, and possessed fine executive ability. She was an inspired poet and able writer, two volumes of her poems having been published. Her faith in God was unwavering and though she was not blessed with children she assisted many mothers in rearing their children, to many of whom she was very dear. She was eminently fitted to stand at the head of the Relief Society when it was reorganized about the year 1859.
Sister Zina D. H. Young, the third General President of the Relief Society was a different type, but a capable leader. She was a sweet, motherly, spiritual-minded woman. She never tired of ministering to the sick and afflicted, comforting, cheering and sustaining those in sorrow and trouble. She not only possessed those beautiful qualities which endeared her to all, but she also had faith, courage and will-power to a marked degree. I will relate one incident:
Aunt Zina, as we were all happy to call her, had a more than usual aversion to worms of all kinds. She said she thought it was born in her. When President Young became convinced that the silk industry could be made a success in Utah he started a cocoonery in the attic of his farm house, with thousands of silk worms. He then asked Aunt Zina to take charge of the work. She felt at first it would be impossible. But, anxious to do anything asked of her to help advance the interest of the community, she accepted the appointment and with determined effort so far overcame her aversion to the worms that she was able to make a success of the undertaking.
Such was the character of all of those pioneer women. They would never shrink from trying to perform any duty, however hard or disagreeable.
Aunt Zina was the mother of three children, all of whom do her honor. She also took the place of mother to four children of a deceased wife of President Young, who loved her as their own mother.
Sister M. Isabella Horne was another woman who deserves special mention. She was naturally a homemaker, the devoted mother of a large family. She brought three little sons with her when she left Nauvoo, and nine other children were born to her after that time. She had the satisfaction of seeing eleven of them married in the House of the Lord. One died in infancy.
It was quite a trial to Sister Horne to be called into public life, and especially to be asked to address a congregation. But she did not shirk when requested to take her part, and her faith in God and her strong will-power carried her through the ordeal and she became in time a very fluent speaker. She was a woman of strong character, good executive ability and excellent judgment. She was a lover of books from her childhood, and was a great reader with a splendid memory, so that her mind was well-stored with useful knowledge. In her youthful days books were not easily obtained so the Bible became almost her constant companion. So well versed was she in the scriptures that she was often referred to as the woman scriptorian.
Sister Horne was Treasurer of the General Board of the Relief Society for several years and was President of the Relief Society of the Salt Lake Stake for twenty-five years.
Sister Bathsheba W. Smith was another of the faithful, sterling characters of the early days, and became the fourth General President of the Relief Society. Sister Smith had a great sorrow come to her during the troublesome time of the settlement in the valley. Her only son was killed by Indians when far from home in the Southern part of Utah, leaving her with only one child—a daughter who lived to be a comfort to her and who reared a large family.
Sister Smith was especially qualified for Temple work and was appointed to take charge of the women’s work in the Salt Lake Temple when it was opened in 1893.
Sister Margaret Smoot, Marinda Hyde, Phebe Woodruff and Sarah M. Kimball were also strong, intelligent, capable women and devoted mothers. They with the four above mentioned were selected to organize the Young Ladies’ Retrenchment Association in the various wards and stakes. Sister Horne was chosen President of this special committee and the other seven sisters were Counselors and Secretary. It was quite a responsibility placed upon their shoulders when they were past middle age, and had reared their families under very trying conditions, in comparative poverty, with few of the comforts of life, to be called upon to go forth and assist in educating and training the young women throughout the Church in principles of the Gospel. But with characteristic courage and exceeding great faith that their Heavenly Father would bless their efforts and assist them in the mission to which they had been called, they cheerfully went forth in the performance of that duty, and we today have cause to “rise up and call them blessed.”
These sisters traveled from Idaho to St. George to effect the organizations, most of the journeys being made with teams and light or heavy wagons as the case might be, in all kinds of weather, as carriages were not plentiful in those early days.
Many other women were called to assist in this pioneer movement, but space will not permit of special mention in this article. In the Y. L. M. I. A. History will be found sketches of these noble women.
Bentley, Maggie Ivins. "Ode to Aunt Eliza R. Snow." Relief Society Magazine. March 1927. pg. 107.
Ode to Aunt Eliza R. Snow
Maggie Ivins Bentley
Second poem to receive honorable mention in the Eliza R. Snow Poem Contest
Deep in my heart are cherished memories
Of a dear lady, now with us no more;
One who possessed a queenly dignity,
With naught unwomanly to mar her grace,
When but a child upon my mother's knee,
In pensive mood I listened to the lore,
Thrilling beyond compare, of pioneers,
Who braved the dangers of the West, to find
A fitting place in which to make a home
Where they might worship as did Saints of old,
And rear their children in the path of right.
Among those noble men and women, who
For sake of conscience fled familiar scenes,
Courting the dangers of the wilderness,
Was Aunt Eliza, brave and true of heart,
Though frail in body, and by grief bowed down,
Because of tribulation's iron hand.
She ne'er was blessed with children of her own,
Yet, as a mother was revered by many
Who came to her for counsel and advice,
Or comfort in their greatest hour of need;
Her poesy, likewise, gave consolation
To Saints in Zion and in foreign lands--
Produced rare hymns of praise, and glorified
The cause for which her labor was expended.
From youth to age her valiancy was proven,
Regardless of the stress or circumstance;
By tongue and pen she heralded the truth
For which our martyred prophet suffered death.
What though the mortal casket of this dear
And gracious lady, long ago, was laid
Away in mother earth?—Her fame lives on,
And will continue so to do, as long
As time shall last. Dear Aunt Eliza:--
Memory recalls the day when you
Gave inspiration to the little ones
Who flocked to meet you, as from place to place,
You journeyed, working for the good of all;
The old, the young, the high as well as low,
Revered you as their prophetess and friend--
Even as Miriam, of Bible lore was- loved
By countless hosts of ancient Israel.
Aunt Zina's name, with yours is always linked,
As true companion for the public weal;
We loved you both, and many others, who
Helped us to learn to do the better part.
God bless the noble pioneers who built
So well, and made it possible for us
To live and strive, as Saints of Latter days.
Ode to Aunt Eliza R. Snow
Maggie Ivins Bentley
Second poem to receive honorable mention in the Eliza R. Snow Poem Contest
Deep in my heart are cherished memories
Of a dear lady, now with us no more;
One who possessed a queenly dignity,
With naught unwomanly to mar her grace,
When but a child upon my mother's knee,
In pensive mood I listened to the lore,
Thrilling beyond compare, of pioneers,
Who braved the dangers of the West, to find
A fitting place in which to make a home
Where they might worship as did Saints of old,
And rear their children in the path of right.
Among those noble men and women, who
For sake of conscience fled familiar scenes,
Courting the dangers of the wilderness,
Was Aunt Eliza, brave and true of heart,
Though frail in body, and by grief bowed down,
Because of tribulation's iron hand.
She ne'er was blessed with children of her own,
Yet, as a mother was revered by many
Who came to her for counsel and advice,
Or comfort in their greatest hour of need;
Her poesy, likewise, gave consolation
To Saints in Zion and in foreign lands--
Produced rare hymns of praise, and glorified
The cause for which her labor was expended.
From youth to age her valiancy was proven,
Regardless of the stress or circumstance;
By tongue and pen she heralded the truth
For which our martyred prophet suffered death.
What though the mortal casket of this dear
And gracious lady, long ago, was laid
Away in mother earth?—Her fame lives on,
And will continue so to do, as long
As time shall last. Dear Aunt Eliza:--
Memory recalls the day when you
Gave inspiration to the little ones
Who flocked to meet you, as from place to place,
You journeyed, working for the good of all;
The old, the young, the high as well as low,
Revered you as their prophetess and friend--
Even as Miriam, of Bible lore was- loved
By countless hosts of ancient Israel.
Aunt Zina's name, with yours is always linked,
As true companion for the public weal;
We loved you both, and many others, who
Helped us to learn to do the better part.
God bless the noble pioneers who built
So well, and made it possible for us
To live and strive, as Saints of Latter days.
Hodgson, Phyllis. "Tribute to Eliza R. Snow." Relief Society Magazine. March 1928. pg. 151-152.
Tribute to Eliza R. Snow
By Phyllis Hodgson
Though the sun in pearly glory
Lights the eastern skies of Heaven
With a rose and golden brilliance,
Shining through a violet vapor,
Sending shafts of golden brightness
On an earth impaled in shadow,
Wrapped in solitary darkness;
Still the world sleeps on unheeding
In an irresponsive slumber:
Or impelled by earthly toiling
Finds no time to see its splendor,
Not intent upon its wonder
Nor exultant in its glory.
For a million suns have risen
And the world has seen their grandeur
'Til it values not nor sees it.
Lives have come and lives departed
In such infinite succession
That the world heeds not nor hearkens
So I sing a song of tribute;
Of a life that dawned unheeded,
Of a life of light and beauty;
Sing of her who served her people
With a tender, sweet compassion,
With a loving, true devotion,
Lived a life of inspiration.
With the passing of the seasons
In their swift successive silence
Came the spring of life-alluring,
Glowing in its youth and beauty
Bright with joyousness, and singing,
Crowned her with the charm of springtime,
Gave her health and gave her courage
High ideals, sublime ambition,
That the toils of life might find her
Strong, to bear their many burdens.
Summer came and found her ready.
Toiled she through the heated mid-day,
Through the scorching heat of summer,
By the gentle breeze untempered.
Never did she pause nor falter,
Never did her courage waiver,
Bore she burdens uncomplaining;
Brought she forth the fruits of autumn
Of a seed that lives forever,
Bulwarks of an unseen kingdom,
Reaching far beyond the ages,
In a vast procession leading
Far into eternal regions.
Softly stole the winter round her,
Crowned her brow with silver whiteness
Like the sun on gleaming snowflakes;
And the passing of the winter
Was serene and sweet, untroubled,
Like some melody resounding
Sweet and clear, in ling'ring cadence,
Grows more faint and dimly echoes,
Leaves its memory e'er the hearers
Are aware that it is going--
Lost in silence of the ages,
But to rise in strains celestial
In some vast eternal kingdom.
Tribute to Eliza R. Snow
By Phyllis Hodgson
Though the sun in pearly glory
Lights the eastern skies of Heaven
With a rose and golden brilliance,
Shining through a violet vapor,
Sending shafts of golden brightness
On an earth impaled in shadow,
Wrapped in solitary darkness;
Still the world sleeps on unheeding
In an irresponsive slumber:
Or impelled by earthly toiling
Finds no time to see its splendor,
Not intent upon its wonder
Nor exultant in its glory.
For a million suns have risen
And the world has seen their grandeur
'Til it values not nor sees it.
Lives have come and lives departed
In such infinite succession
That the world heeds not nor hearkens
So I sing a song of tribute;
Of a life that dawned unheeded,
Of a life of light and beauty;
Sing of her who served her people
With a tender, sweet compassion,
With a loving, true devotion,
Lived a life of inspiration.
With the passing of the seasons
In their swift successive silence
Came the spring of life-alluring,
Glowing in its youth and beauty
Bright with joyousness, and singing,
Crowned her with the charm of springtime,
Gave her health and gave her courage
High ideals, sublime ambition,
That the toils of life might find her
Strong, to bear their many burdens.
Summer came and found her ready.
Toiled she through the heated mid-day,
Through the scorching heat of summer,
By the gentle breeze untempered.
Never did she pause nor falter,
Never did her courage waiver,
Bore she burdens uncomplaining;
Brought she forth the fruits of autumn
Of a seed that lives forever,
Bulwarks of an unseen kingdom,
Reaching far beyond the ages,
In a vast procession leading
Far into eternal regions.
Softly stole the winter round her,
Crowned her brow with silver whiteness
Like the sun on gleaming snowflakes;
And the passing of the winter
Was serene and sweet, untroubled,
Like some melody resounding
Sweet and clear, in ling'ring cadence,
Grows more faint and dimly echoes,
Leaves its memory e'er the hearers
Are aware that it is going--
Lost in silence of the ages,
But to rise in strains celestial
In some vast eternal kingdom.
Cannon, Annie Wells. "Eliza Roxey Snow." Relief Society Magazine. January 1935. pg. 17.
Eliza Roxey Snow
By Annie Wells Cannon
Saint, poet, priestess, prophetess!
Upon the altar of a faith supreme
You laid ambition's golden dream
A sacrifice for righteousness.
Nor felt the cost. Your recompense
The angel's call; you saw the light.
You followed in Truth's armor bright
Like Miriam to the wilderness.
'Twas yours to comfort and to bless.
In dignity and grace you stood
The epitome of womanhood,
Bestowing gifts of kindliness.
Through rugged paths in scarred distress
You found the vale serene, and sweet
Where pastures green rest tired feet,
And bathed your soul in holiness.
Eliza Roxey Snow
By Annie Wells Cannon
Saint, poet, priestess, prophetess!
Upon the altar of a faith supreme
You laid ambition's golden dream
A sacrifice for righteousness.
Nor felt the cost. Your recompense
The angel's call; you saw the light.
You followed in Truth's armor bright
Like Miriam to the wilderness.
'Twas yours to comfort and to bless.
In dignity and grace you stood
The epitome of womanhood,
Bestowing gifts of kindliness.
Through rugged paths in scarred distress
You found the vale serene, and sweet
Where pastures green rest tired feet,
And bathed your soul in holiness.
"Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow." Improvement Era. March 1943. pg. 142-143, 186-189, 191.
Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow A HERETOFORE UNPUBLISHED ACCOUNT OF THE EXODUS FROM NAUVOO AND OF OTHER FAR-REACHING EVENTS BY ONE OF THE GREAT WOMEN OF THE 19TH CENTURY INTRODUCTION THE urgency of the departure of the Saints from Nauvoo can be implied from the fact that on Wednesday, February 4, 1846, the first group left their City Beautiful and crossed the Mississippi River in the initial step on their accepted journey westward. The strength of their testimony is also exemplified, for rather than deny their faith, they resolved that, even in the bitterest of winter months, they would go where they might find freedom to worship God according to their own dictates and to His commands. It was also on this same day, February 4, 1846, that Sam Brannan, with 235 members from New England and the Atlantic states, set sail in the ship Brooklyn from New York for Yerba Buena, California. On February 6, Bishop George Miller and a company with six wagons crossed the river from Nauvoo to Iowa, and several days later commenced moving the Saints, by night as well as by day. Journals of those who crossed the plains have emphasized, by their very understatement, the intensely real hardships and ordeals which they endured. Those who have been far removed from their sufferings can do well to relive some of their moving experiences. The diary of Eliza R. Snow, whose immortal hymn "O My Father" has brought comfort and hope to countless thousands, proves stirring reading. LeRoi C. Snow, a nephew of Eliza R. Snow and a son of President Lorenzo Snow, has graciously permitted the Era to print this journal, for which he has written the following introduction: ELIZA Roxcy[1] Snow was born in Becket, Massachusetts, January 21, 1804. In 1806, the family moved to Ohio, where her brother Lorenzo was born in 1814. In April, 1835, Eliza was baptized by the Prophet Joseph Smith. She moved to Kirtland and lived in his home, where she taught a select school for young ladies. When the Saints were driven from Kirtland, Eliza drove a team much of the way to Par West. Forced again from there, the family moved to Illinois. In Nauvoo, Eliza taught a school for girls in the home of Sidney Rigdon. On June 29, 1842, she was married to the Prophet Joseph Smith, and in 1849, five years after the Prophet's martyrdom, she was married to President Brigham Young. Eliza R. Snow organized the Retrenchment Association, later the Y.L.M.I.A., and was active for forty-five years in the Relief Society. Moreover, she traveled widely in the interest of the Primary, organizing numerous associations. Eliza R. Snow's journal is an intimate account of the exodus from Nauvoo, the sojourn at Winter Quarters, and the pioneer journey across the plains. The journal contains important incidents which are not recorded elsewhere, not even in the official "Journal History" of the Church. This priceless journal—or diary—has never been published and has been seen by very few persons. There are two volumes—very small, leather-covered books. The paper is yellow with age, although the ink and writing are about as clear and distinct as when first written. The first volume is three and a half by five and a quarter inches and contains eighty pages. The second volume is two and a half by four inches and contains seventy-nine pages. The first volume begins February 12, 1846, and continues to May, 1847. The second volume extends from June 1, 1847, to August 8, 1849. The beautiful writing is so very small that a reading glass is necessary to read some of it. The first time I ever saw these journals was when my Aunt Eliza showed them to . , me in her room in the Lion House. She 1806, the family moved to Ohio, where her let me handle them; she read several pages brother Lorenzo was born in 1814. In to me and promised that some day they would be given to me. My father. President Lorenzo Snow, had the journals after Aunt Eliza died (December 5, 1887), and my mother gave them to me nearly forty years ago. She also gave me the pen which Aunt Eliza used and the small, ink bottle which she carried. I am now keeping the diary in the Historian Office. LeRoi C. Snow PART I THURSDAY,[2] Feb. 12, 1846. We left Tour home [in Nauvoo] and went as far as br. Hiram Kimball's, where we spent the night, and thro' the generosity of Sister K[imball] & mother Granger, made some additional preparations for our journey. Friday, Feb. 13. Cross'd the Mississippi and join'd the Camp. Found my brother L[orenzo's] and br. Years- ley's families tented side by side. We lodged in br. Y[earsley's] tent,-which before morning was covered with snow. Saturday, Feb. 14. After breakfast I went into the buggy and did not leave it till the next day. Sis. M[arkham] and I did some needlework, tho' the melting snow dripped thro' our cover. Sunday, Feb. 15. Had a very pleasant visit with Sarah Lawrence. Tuesday, Feb. 17. Visited Sis. Kimball who had just arrived. Mov'd our tents to the upper end of the encampment. The day fine. Wednesday, Feb. 18. The weather fine received a visit from Loisa B, P. Decker and Sarah Lawrence. Last night was very cold.[3] Thursday, Feb. 19. Snowstorm commenced in the and continued through the day. It was so disagreeable out that I did not leave the buggy. Suffered considerably from a severe cold. Amused myself by writing the following: THE CAMP OF ISRAEL A Song for the Pioneers, No. 1. Altho' in woods and tents we dwell Shout, shout, O Camp of Israel! No Christian mobs earth can bind Our thoughts, or steal our peace of mind. Chorus Tho' we fly from vile aggression We'll maintain our pure profession, Seek a peaceable possession Far. from Gentiles and oppression. We better live in tents and smoke Than wear the cursed Gentile yoke We better from our country fly Than by mobocracy to die. Chorus, Tho' we fly etc. We've left the City of Nauvoo And our beloved Temple too, And to the wilderness we'll go Amid the winter frosts and snow. Chorus, Tho' we fly etc. Our homes were dear we lov'd them well, Beneath our roofs we hop'd to dwell: And honor the great God's commands. By mutual rights of Christian lands. Chorus, Tho' we fly etc. Our persecutors will not cease Their murd'rous spoiling of our peace And have decreed that we must go To wilds where reeds and rushes grow. Chorus, Tho' we fly etc. The Camp, the Camp, its numbers swell Shout, shout, O Camp of Israel! The King, the Lord of hosts is near, His armies guard our front and rear,[4] Chorus. Tho' we fly etc. Saturday, Feb. 28. For several days past the weather has been extremely cold people visiting us from the City think the weather as severe as has been thro' the winter This morning, that portion of the Camp to which we were attached was to start out. Bishop Miller's company left several days before, but the intense cold prevented the body of the Camp from following soon as was anticipated. We travelled but 4 miles and encamped in a low, truly romantic valley just large enough for our tents, wagons, &c. We arrived a little before sunset and the prospect for the night seemed dubious enough. The ground was covered with snow, shoe deep, but our industrious men with hoes soon prepared places and pitched the tents, built wood-piles in front of them, and but a few minutes with many hands transformed the rude valley into a thriving town on Indian Creek. Sunday, March 1st. The weather considerably moderated in the eve. The remainder of the Camp from Sugar Creek arrived with the Twelve, the Band, &c. and tented on the bluff which surrounded us. THE CAMP OF ISRAEL Song for the Pioneers No. 2, Lo! a num'rous host of people Tented on the western shore Of the noble Mississippi They for weeks were crossing o’er. At the last day’s dawn of winter. Bound with frost and wrapt in snow. Hark! the sound is onward, onward! Camp of Israel! rise & go. All at once is life in motion-- Trunks and beds & baggage fly; Oxen yok'd and horses harness'd, Tents roll’d up, are passing by. Soon the carriage wheels are rolling Onward to a woodland dell, Where at sunset all are quarter’d-- Camp of Israel! All is well. Thickly round, the tents are cluster’d Neighb’ring smokes together blend-- Supper served—the hymns are chanted And the evening pray'rs ascend. Last of all the guards are station’d-- Heav’ns! Must guards be serving here? Who would harm the houseless exiles? Camp of Israel! Never fear. Where is freedom? Where is justice? Both have from this nation fled; And the blood of martyr’d Prophets, Must be answer’d on its head! Therefore to your tents, O Jacob! Like our Father Abr’m dwell-- God will execute his purpose-- Camp of Israel! All is well.[5] Monday, March 2. According to the order of the preceding night, the whole camp, except some appointed to do a job of work, move forward as early as practicable, and the weather having moderated considerably, after starting on frozen ground & ice, the traveling in the afternoon was in mud & water. Journey’d 12 miles & encamp’d in a field where piles of small wood were scattered very conveniently for our fires as if prepared for the purpose, but they had been heap’d by the owner and left either thro' hurry or neglect. The last of the way being very bad, the last of the company only arrived in time for the next morning start. The country was timber land and quite broken, with high bluffs rising loftily over low valleys and but little cultivated. Tuesday, March 3. Camp mov’d in a body 8 miles which was on the bank of the Des Moines. The traveling much better than the previous day—the weather fine—passed through the town of Farmington, where the inhabitants manifested great curiosity and more levity than sympathy for our homeless situation—We join d Bishop Miller’s company, where he halted to perform a job of chopping and fencing on Reed's Creek. Our encampment this night may truly be recorded by this generation as a miracle. A city rear'd in a few hours, and everything in operation that living required and many additional things which if not extravagancy, were in fact conveniences. This evening we were very agreeably surprised by Sister Whitney's appearance in front of the buggy where I was seated, eating my supper. I rejoiced much to learn that her family had arrived & were tented close by us, having before this time been separated from all old associates. Just before entering Farmington, finished the cakes which Sister M[arkham] made at Sister Kimball's. Wednesday, March 4. This morning was usher'd in with the music of the Band, which was delightfully sublime. Stopp'd this day to organize. Bishop Miller's company went on, others were appointed to finish the work he had commenc'd. I spent some time with Sister Whitney and Sarah A[nn Snow]. Last night dream'd of being in Elder Kimball's mess [i.e., group]. Tho't myself quite awkwardly situated. Just at night Sister Whitney came to our tent expressing much joy in her countenance & said we were all to go together in Brother Kimball's company, the camp being divided into different companies under the Twelve for the convenience of traveling. Colonel Markham exchang'd the buggy in which Sister Mfarkham] & myself rode, & which serv'd me as sitting room & dormitory, for a lumber wagon. Great numbers of the inhabitants of the country were to be seen walking in companies thro' this day, up and down the nameless streets of our magnificent & novel City. Sister M[arkham] and I took a walk this eve, lost our way call'd at Amasa Lyman's tent. After a little chat with them, Bro. Lyman conducted us toward home until we came in sight of it, which we could hardly have found without a pilot. Thursday, March 5. Our newly constructed City is razed and the inhabitants thereof take up their line of march —return to the bank of the Des Moines, which we left at a half mile distance, for our encampment. Sister M[arkham] and I are nicely seated in an ox wagon, on a chest with a brass kettle and the soap box for our footstools, thankful that we are so well off.—The day fine. We travelled 2 miles on the bank of the river & cross’d at a little place called Bonaparte. I slung a tin cup on a string, and drew some water which was a very refreshing draught. After crossing the river the road was thro’ timber and intolerably muddy, the banks on this side rising almost perpendicularly. The teams had hard work to draw the loads as we ascended hill after hill. Our company, consisting of Pioneers,[6] Br. Markham's and Bro. Yearsley’s families, all of whom were attached to Elder Kimball’s company of fifty, were only able to go 3 miles after crossing, when we came upon a prairie & encamp'd. The present division of our company was rather awkward. The little boys had gone on with the cows, we knew not where, but afterwards learn’d that they were 8 miles ahead with Br. Lyman, where most of the Camp had gone. Elder Kimball was ¾ of a mile beyond us and Bishop Whitney 1 ½ miles in the rear. Friday, March 6. We crossed the prairie & join'd the other encampment on a small creek, & uncomfortably muddy but in good company, being directly in the neighborhood of the fifty to which we belong'd. Saturday, March 7. Left the timberroad, very bad for a mile or more—the weather warm & the ox-teams seem’d almost exhausted. I got out of the wagon & walk’d for the first time on the journey. The face of the country quite broken for the first 5 or 6 miles; the timber principally oak, contrasting very much with the beautiful sugar groves on the Des Moines. After a few miles travel in small op'nings, interspers’d with strips of timber land, we pass’d thro’ several miles of rolling prairie; under better cultivation than any we had seen since leaving Montrose. Arrived at the place of our encampment after dark, tho’ not in the dark for the moon shone brilliantly upon our path. 10 or 12 miles this day. Sunday, March 8. The day warm & fine. Heard this morning of the birth of Sarah Ann’s [Smith’s] son. Bishop W[hitney] did not come up last night and the word was for the camp to remain thro’ the day. Call’d on Loisa, Emily, &c.; went to meeting, but when Bro. Grant commenc'd his discourse, I understood the citizens had requested the meeting, and concluded it would be for their benefit, & not so interesting to us. Loisa and myself went to Elder Taylor’s tent & spent 2 or 3 hours very pleasantly with Sister Taylor, who was laboring under a rheumatic affliction 5 felt quite disheartened. I told her she must not be discourag’d—could not feel that she would be long infirm— may God heal her! We went to Col. Rockwood’s tent —father Chase quite sick & Clarissa looking disconsolate. Monday, March 9. Our town of yesterday morning has grown to a City. laid out in the form of a half hollow square, fronting east & south, on a beautiful level, with an almost perpendicular on one side and on the other, a gradual descent to a deep ravine on the west & north. At nine this morning I noticed, but a few rods from our tent, a blacksmith’s shop in operation, and everything indicated real life. Not a cooking utensil was idle. Sister M[arknam] baked a batch-of eleven loaves but the washing business was necessarily omitted for the want of water, an inconvenience the present suffers more than any previous one. Had the pleasure of the first interview with Pres. Young since we left the City. Call'd on Sister Taylor and Sarah with her fine boy. Tuesday, March 10. Rainy all day. Wednesday, March 11. Rain’d all day this noon Elder Sherwood ascertained from observations, our geometrical distance from Nauvoo to be 55 and ¼ miles. From the dampness of my lodging, or some other cause I did not rest much & feel rather indispos’d took no breakfast, but for my dinner my good friend Sister M[arkham] brought me a slice of beautiful, white light bread and butter, that would have done honor to a more convenient bakery, than an out-of-door fire in the wilderness. Thursday, March 12. Rainy yet intolerably muddy. Friday, March 13. Rain’d some in the night, but colder before morning quite windy our tent blew down & with other accidents upset a pail of potato soup which was intended for breakfast, but instead thereof we had coffee,[7] fried jole and "jonny cake." This morning the subject of the fare of the pioneers of our fifty was call’d in question. Heber C. Kimball said a distribution must be made, and inasmuch as they [the "pioneers”] did most of the labor, they should have while anything remain’d. Lorenzo Young said they must eat as he did which was a few slices of dried beef boiled and a quart or two of milk added in which he ate his bread. They said they would do so, but had neither the meat nor the milk. Meat was furnished by some of the cows our mess had divided with them at the large encampment on the other side the Des Moines. Among those who remained behind to finish Brother M[arkham’s] job, some are said to remain there yet not having means to come on. The rest that have been left at work having all come up including those who stopped about six miles back to do a job at rail splitting, of which I had not made mention. Sister M[arkham] and I made Mother Whitney and Sarah A. a call in the evening. We heard the melancholy news of the death of the amiable and much beloved Sister Caroline C. Spencer. Also through the medium of letters received from Nauvoo, we learned that Wm. Smith and Geo. J. Adams were gathering on one side and John E. Page in conjunction with Strang on the other, while Orson Hyde advocating the cause of truth in favor of the Church, has baptized Luke Johnson who has gone east for his family, intending to join the Camp of Israel. Saturday, March 14. Cold and windy. Sister M[arkham], Harriet [Snow], Elizabeth and myself go to the creek, about a half mile distant, to wash, while Sister Young and Catherine stayed to attend to the cooking department, the result of which we received some tokens before night, to wit: Catherine sent us some nice sweet biscuits for dinner, and when Brigham came with the buggy for us at night, Sister Y[oung] sent us a supper of rich pot-pie made of wild game, rabbits, pheasants, quail, &c„ which is the fourth dish of the kind on which we have been very fortunate. I think few have fared as well in this respect as our family which now numbers 22, Elder Sherwood being with us. Before we left the washing vale, it commenced raining, turned windy before morning, and I was heartily glad to see the moon shining on the wagon cover a few inches above my head. This evening two of the ten pioneers[8] left at the encampment on the other side of the Des Moines came up with their knap-sacks on their backs. The brethren got corn for 12 and 15 cents per bushel, which is the highest they have given except in one instance when they gave 20. Sunday, March 15. So intolerably windy the men failed in their efforts to keep the tent upright. I did not leave the wagon till night. Sister Sessions made us a visit in the afternoon. Sister M[arkham] making the wagon comfortable with coals. The subject of brotherly oppression was forcibly presented to my view, and I was led to inquire “How long O Lord?” Is there no reward for patient submission? Will the insolent oppressor always go unpunished? How long shall some feast, while others famish? Monday, March 16. The day fine. Took coffee[9], with Sarah A. Went to Amasa Lyman's tent, found a little child of Sidney Tanner at the point of death. Tuesday, March 17. Raining and windy. Wednesday, March 18. Warm and pleasant. Had expected to leave the encampment, but are detained by the death of Bro. Little, a nephew of Pres. Brigham Young. A very busy day with us in our overhauling and arranging wagons, baking, &c. Pres. Young shook hands with us. Thursday, March 19. Left the encampment the day very cold and windy the country mostly prairie, broken with strips of timber, mostly oak sufficiently rolling for farming, not much cultivated, but decorated with many new beginnings, which promise beautiful homes with a few years' improvement; saw a few fine young peach orchards. Our mess with the pioneers was belated, and after traveling eight or ten miles put up for the night the body of the camp being a mile and a half in advance. The road was good most of the way a few mud holes to ford by starlight. Friday, March 20. The cold more intense, insomuch that we were obliged to close the front of the wagon. Traveled eight or nine miles and stopped on the bank of a creek with a pole bridge, called Fox River, our company still ahead, much difficulty in getting feed for the teams. Saw Harriet [Snow] and Sarah [Snow]. Saturday, March 21. The going very bad for three or four miles, after crossing the river, half of the distance timbered land. We met Pres. Young who had returned from his encampment to see to the repairing of one of his wagons. The day fine and the remainder of the road beautiful, over a prairie of 15 miles, and then camped in the edge of the timber that skirts the Chariton, 4 miles from the stream, having overtaken the camp in the morning. Sunday, March 22. After passing the timber land, which was very rugged, came to a bottom of three miles on which I counted upwards of 80 wagons before me at one view. Crossed the Chariton which at this place is a muddy looking stream, perhaps two rods in width, with steep banks. The Pioneers[10] assisted the teams with ropes. Passed on about one-fourth mile and encamped on a beautiful ridge, where the tents were arranged on each side of the road. Saw Sister Rich for the first time, encamped on the river, one of the girls sick with the measles. Bro. L[orenzo] came up just before night, had not seen him since before crossing the Des Moines. THE CAMP OF ISRAEL Song for the Pioneers No. 3. Dedicated to President Brigham Young and Heber C. Kimball LET US GO Let us go, let us go to the ends of the earth, Let us go far away from the land of our birth For the banner of “Freedom” no longer will wave O’er the patriot's tomb o'er the dust of the brave. Let us go let us go from a country of strife From a land where the wicked are seeking our life From a country where justice no longer remains From which virtue is fled and iniquity reigns. Let us go let us go from a government where Our just right of protection we never can share Where the soil we have purchased we can-not enjoy Till the time when “the Master goes forth to destroy.” Let us go let us go to the wilds for a home, Where the wolf and the roe and the buffalo roam, Where the life-inspired "eagle” in "liberty” flies, Where the mountains of Israel in majesty rise. Let us go let us go to the country where soil Can be made to produce wine, milk, honey and oil Where beneath our own vines we may sit and enjoy The rich fruit of our labors with none to annoy. Let us go let us go where our rights are secure Where the waters are clear and the atmosphere pure Where the hand of oppression has never been felt Where the blood of the prophets has never been spilt. Let us go let us go where the kingdom of God Will be seen in its order extending abroad Where the Priesthood again will exhibit its worth, In the regeneration of man and of earth. Let us go let us go to the far western shore Where the blood-thirsty "Christians” will hunt us no more; Where the waves of the ocean will echo the sound And the shout of salvation be heard the world round. Monday, March 23. Commenced raining last evening rained through the night and this day. Wednesday, March 25. Commenced snowing Monday night and snowed with little intermission till this afternoon—-the oak ridge on which we are encamped being of a clay soil, the mud of our street and about our fires, in our tents &c., is indescribable. Through the unremitting kindness of Bro. Markham, I don’t leave the wagon and this evening we supped together through the kindness of Catherine, on “Jonny-cake” and milk, the product of old “Whitey,” the family cow. Having had a calf a few days ago, she affords us a fine treat. We are now in Daviess County, having crossed the line of Van Buren about 4 miles this side the 11 days encampment which is 8 miles from Keosanque, the county town. It is impossible to obtain grain here for the teams which live mostly on browse. 25 of our 50 men took a job of making rails, for which they got 10 bushels of corn, which was distributed Tuesday night. They also got 100 lbs. of bacon for the pioneers, 100 more paid for. Thus the Lord opens the way for his poor saints, through patience and industry to obtain the necessaries of life, as they journey towards the western wilderness. The Chariton is now up so as not fordable—those who go to work, and for corn &c. are crossing in a flat-boat. Thursday, March 26. The sun, which had not appeared since last Saturday, except a few minutes before setting last night, arose this morning clear and beautiful, which was hailed with much pleasure by our wayward deep in the mud, sojourned to be sure, although it is accompanied with a cool north breeze; moved some before night. I spent an hour or two very agreeably in Sister Yearsley's carriage, not having left the wagon before since Sunday evening, partly through ill health, and partly on account of the mud. Friday, March 27. Bishop Miller and the Pratts who are encamped some miles ahead, are recalled to attend a court and answer to the charge of disregarding council, &c. I was very ill last night—a little better today. Saturday, March 28. The Twelve and others go six miles forward to attend to the organization of the Camp- -which is divided in six hundreds, 50’s and 10’s, with presidents and captains over each fifty, and Captains over lens and one traveling commissary to each hundred. (To be continued.) [1] Eliza R. Snow's second name is sometimes spelled Roxcey, Roxcy, in addition to Roxcy. [2] Days of the week, not included in the original journal, have been entered throughout for ready reference. [3] Feb., from the 13th to the 18th—We had several snowstorms and very freezing weather, which bridged the Mississippi sufficiently for crossing heavily loaded wagons on the ice. * * * My dormitory, sitting room and’’ office was the buggy in which Sister Markham, her little son and I rode. * * * One of my brother Lorenzo's wives loaned me her foot-stove.—Tullidge, Women of Mormondom, 308, 9; quoted from Eliza R. Snow [4] As this refined woman [Eliza R. Snow] was on the way through the wilderness, she sang, with the sweetness of a soul touched by divine fire, songs that glorified the journey, and cheered the .weary hearts around her with promise of coming recompense.—Jakeman's Daughters of' the Utah Pioneers and Their Mothers, page 9 [5] Eliza R. Snow wrote "Camp of Israel," No. 1, "West side of the Mississippi.” This was a song which the Saints sang with hearty zest. "Camp of Israel." No. 2, was written on leaving the first encampment after crossing the Mississippi, Mar. 1, 1846.—Jenson's Biographical Encyclopedia. Vol. I. 696 [6] In each company, those who went ahead, dealing roads and establishing camping sites and hiring out as laborers, were known as the "Pioneers, a kind of "task force." [7] Understanding of the Word of Wisdom has developed gradually—is in fact still developing. Section 89 of the Doctrine and Covenants is a statement of general principles to' be substantiated and interpreted by the foremost knowledge of each advancing day. To tie Pioneers it was an infant doctrine, still to be explained. [8] See note 4, p. 187 [9] See note 5 [10] See note 4, p. 187 |
PHOTOGRAPH OF FIRST PAGE OF ELIZA R. SNOW'S DIARY
ELIZA R. SNOW—FROM A RARE AND EARLY PHOTOGRAPH
EARLY STAGE OF THE JOURNEY—FIGURES ALONG THE ROUTE INDICATE MILES TRAVELED BETWEEN DATES
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"Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow." Improvement Era. April 1943. pg. 208-209, 251-253.
Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow PART II 1846 Sun[day, March] 29th. [Still on the Chariton River, about 100 miles from Nauvoo.] Very cold & windy—Elder [H.G.] Sherwood left our tent to act as Commissary in Brigham’s fifty, in conjunction with br. Yearsley who is appointed for Heber’s. Br. Y[oung] came to the wagon this eve[ning] & said in the name of the Lord I should get my health. [Monday,] Mar. 30. Sis[ter] M[arkham,] H[arriet] & Elizabeth] go to the stream to wash. Sis[ter] Y[oung] gave a treat of apple pies, which the rest enjoy’d much, but my health is too ill, tho' improving. The day very fine. Tu[esday, March] 31. The day fine, got out of the wagon for the first time since last Th [ursday]. Mother Whitney fulfill’d her promise of last eve[ning] & call’d with an acceptable token of Sarah’s kindness, a nice bit of cod-fish. In having been ill have realiz’d Sis[ter] Markham’s unremitting kindness & have had time for reflection on many subjects. One which existing circumstances have brought before me is that of the equal distribution of property. I am confirmed in my former opinion that it is contrary to the order of the celestial kingdom. I verily believe that should a time arrive that one shall possess no more than another that the equality will be produc’d by adverse circumstances, not by the law of God; and that time will present a general scene of distress. God, for a wise purpose in Himself, in the distribution of capacity, has conferr’d greater ability on some than on others £> gradation seems inherent in the law of creation & government. P[orter] Rockwell arrived with letters from Nauvoo. The City is anything but a desirable habitation from description—I pray the Lord to open the way for the honest in heart to get out. Br. M[arkham] informs me that our Com[pany] has earn’d upwards of 50 dol[lars] in this place, which is received in corn, oats, pork, cloth & a cow.[1] Th[ursday], Apr. 2d. Yesterday Brigham’s Com[pany] left and Heber’s today—Cross’d Shoal Creek, 6 miles, & found B[righam]’s Com[pany] encamp’d, when we made a halt & expected to spend the night, but after some arrangements, went on 5 m[ile] s farther & stopp'd on the opposite bank of a small stream. Had the pleasure of perusing an interesting letter from S. M. K[imball], thro’ the politeness of her adopted mother Vilate. Thro’ the blessing of God my health is much better. Fr[iday, April] 3d. This morning called in Heber’s tent & found Brigham & family at the breakfast table who had just arrived with his Com[pany], & recommended going forward, & not wait, as we expected to do, for the arrival of teams sent back for corn. Soon after we started it commenc’d raining in showers which made the road across a wet prairie of 2 miles quite bad. At the end of 2 m[ile]s came to a creek lin’d with timber—a long hill on the opposite side which after much delay, in doubling teams &c., we ascend & encamp on the bluff with a settled rain which continued till about 5 o’clock. Sat[urday, April] 4th. [At Hickory Grove Encampment.] Rain’d all night & mostly thro’ this day. Heard that L[orenzo] is with George A. [Smith] 7 m[ile]s in the rear, on Shoal Creek. Br. Y[oung] came up—he had been on 45 m[iles] to Grand River. Sun [day, April] 5. The storm subsided in the night, succeeded by a freeze —this day is warm & sunny which, from its rarity seems a great blessing. Br. Heber held a meeting—the men gather'd round but the ground being wet the females kept at home. Seated in the front of the wagon—I wrote the following: In All Things Rejoice.[2] At 4 o’clock, according to the instruction that each Ten should meet together in their several divisions and partake of the sacrament, we attended to the ordinance for the first time since we left the City. My heart was made to rejoice in the privilege of once more commemorating the death of Him whom I desire to behold. Roll on ye wheels of time! Hasten, thou long anticipated period, when He shall again stand upon the earth. In consequence of some disaffected feelings, Br. Markham’s & Br. Years- ley’s families this morfning] separate their table, Br. Barney wishing to board with Br. M[arkham] remained with us. Br. M[arkham] had the misfortune to cut his foot by the fall of an axe from the front of his wagon. Mon [day, April] 6. Commenc’d raining soon after day light—rain’d all day with a little intermission. Soon after we had retired to rest, the wind rose with a perfect gale attended with a heavy shower of rain—and several of our habitations were level’d & the roofs of our wagons barely escap’d the wreck of elements. With the storm, the weather became extremely cold.[3] Tu[esday], [April] 7th. [On Locust Creek.] Very cold & windy, moderated a little before night. Wed[nesday, April] 8. The ground froze quite hard this mor[ning]—the wind chang’d to the south and west. Elder K[imball] thought best to move forward this mor[ning] early & go as far as practicable, rather than wait for the road to dry, while the teams are losing more than when at work; but the men who started Mon [day] to go 12 m[ile]s for corn did not return last night as was expected & we must wait for them.[4] Elder Kimball was passing my "study” today when after the usual compliments, I told him I was number’d among his children. I wished to know if he would acknowledge me as one. He said he would, & I told him that I should claim a father' s blessing. He said he would give me one. I asked when? to which he replied “now." I told him I was ready; he said to me then, "A father's blessing shall rest upon you from this time forth.” From this time I call him father. Thursday, April 9. Started early as practicable, but before we left, Sis[ter] Markham did her 2nd churning of butter in the wagon—the road was almost impassable being low prairie, & to render it worse, it commenced raining about noon, & with the greatest exertion we went but 7 m[ile]s and put up in the open prairie where we had not sufficient wood to keep warm and the teams were let loose without feed, to pick for themselves. Here we pass’d a dreary night of wind & rain. Friday, April 10. The cattle & horses had stray'd in the night & it was noon before we left our miry habitation, and when we went it was by doubling teams leaving some wagons behind— a little after night we arrived at the place of destination where Father K[imball] & many others were once more on “terra firma,” before us with plenty of wood & fires blazing, & browse for the beasts together with the blessing of an unburnt sod for our carpet, which was very delightful. Sat[urday, April] 11th. A council held a few rods from our wagons with most of the Twelve in attendance, to consult the interests of the Camp of Israel & the kingdom of God. It was thought best to change the course of our journey & go more to the north, which would bring us into the late purchase, we being now on the disputed ground between Mo. & Iowa,—to travel about 50 m[ile] s & stop to put in crops, build houses &c., & that the poor in the City be written to immediately to reach the proposed plantation as soon as possible—teams were sent back for those of our company who did not come up. Sun [day, April] 12th. The Sacrament was administered to those that could assemble in the open air, which was very chill tho’ the day was fine. Father K[imball] presided and gave us excellent instruction reminding us of the goodness of God, which had been greatly manifested on our way—altho’ it seem’d to us that we had experienc'd the worst of weather we should not have thought anything about it had we been at home. He strongly impress’d the necessity of union of feeling & action—said his “feelings” were wounded by reflections made by some respecting sending their teams back for others, particularly Br. L[orenzo] Young said that those who were selfish about helping others would find their teams weakening & dying &c. &c. It was a refreshing season to me & while I partook of the elements in remembrance of the death of our Savior, my prayer was “O Jesus, let me soon behold thy face.” Mother Whitney call'd at our wagon just as the word went forth for meeting, & I remark’d to her that my mind had been impress’d with the idea of going to the land of Palestine, & I felt to prophesy that we should yet walk hand in hand upon the mountains of Judah even the land of our inheritance & pick rich clusters of grapes which were “dropping down new wine” upon the sides of the mountains. While sitting at the meeting I felt a strong con-firmation of the above, yet the very feeble state of my health seems to forbid the expectation, but with God all things are possible.[5] Mon [day, April] 13. Sister M [arkham] & myself spent most of the day in Sarah Ann’s wagon—dined with Sister W. and S.:—Sarah [Ann Smith] assisting to prepare tea[6] for the first time since the birth of her promising son. Tu[esday, April] 14th. The weather continues fine, and Father K[imball’s] com[pany], according to previous arrangement, leave our very beautiful woodland dell, to join Brigham’s Camp about 3 m’s ahead—while starting some of the teams, Father K[imball] pass’d where I was sitting, saying to the brethren, that "each one should have a care for all—that if others would have no care for him he should take care of himself & others might take care of themselves”—he said that I might write it, for it was a correct principle. After about 3 m[ile]s travel over a rough road, tho’ more tolerable than the last, we join’d Brigham’s camp on the edge of a high sandy prairie, with Gen. Rich's Com[pany] about a half m[ile] in front & Bishop Miller’s in the rear, on the opposite side of a stream call'd Big Locust, thickly skirted with timber, over which the Pioneers[7] had made a bridge. Here I think the whole Camp of Israel once more came together, with perhaps the exception of Br. Spencer’s Com[pany]. Charles Decker arriv’d in 4 days from Nauvoo altho’ it is nearly 9 weeks since we cross’d the river, our journey bearing some little resemblance to that of the Camp of Israel in former days. David brought me a package this eve[ning] which prov’d to be another token from S. M. Kimball a roll of neat gimp, yet I had to regret that the envelop contain’d only her signature & her love. Wednesday, April] 15th. Saw with much pleasure [my brother] L[orenzo Snow] whom I had not seen since he left the Camp on the Chariton; sorry to hear that Sarah [his wife] is sick with the ague. A Com[pany] of the Pioneers with br. Yearsley are sent out to get work in the country. Several of the companies move on. B[righam’s] and H[eber’s] remain. Th[ursday, April] 16. We move 6 m’s, encamp on the prairie in separate companies our situation is fine the 50 wagons being arrang’d in double file, with the appearance of a public square between. The prairie begins to look green the rattlesnakes make their appearance much to the annoyance of our horses & cattle, several of them having been bit in trying to allay their hungry appetites.[8] Fr[iday, April] 17th. Mov'd m[ile]s, came up com[pany], encamp'd timber’d ridge but getting divided, we cross’d the stream and located on the prairie with B [righam’s] com[pany] in front, Miller’s on the left; but before we started, I sent for L[orenzo Snow] told him I thought best for him to come with us Br. M[arkham] spoke to Father K[imball], who said it would be perfectly right for him to take the place he previously occupied. I found that some disorder & apparently much dissatisfaction was existing throughout P[ratt]’s com[pany]. A[masa] Lyman one day’s journey in the rear. Sat[urday, April] 18th. The brethren having met in Council, the word is for a com[pany] immediately to prepare for the mountains those that have means are to go & the rest are to make a farming establishment on the Grand river & furnish themselves from time to time Com[panies] as will be going. A report of the means of each family is to be made by the cap[tain]s of tens, which is to be submitted to the Council] on Mon [day], when a decision will be made, &c. Sun[day, April] 19th. A meeting in the forepart of the day at B[righam]'s encampment and in the eve[ning] been ours & Elder Taylor’s. (B[righa]m [Young] call’d at our tent door.) Elder T[aylor] spoke of our trials &c., which he thought very small rejoic’d much spoke of the importance of our mission, said those about him were to act an important part in political affairs they were going to raise the standard of liberty around which the nations of the earth will yet assemble. Father K[imball] spoke of the lavish manner in which provisions] had been used by many, that to pursue that course would bring destruction upon the Camp & we should be scatter'd to the four winds. Said it was impossible to take all over the Mt. [mountains] that each one must help himself he should divide no longer. The com[pany] voted to sustain him, or rather to sanction the measures adopted by the Council] he spoke of the great blessings of the Lord upon the Camp that he never saw so little sickness among so many that the feeble should become healthy that Sis [ter] E[liza R.] Snow should be able to walk 20 m[ile]s be-fore we get over the Mtns. While at meet[ing] saw P[orter] Rockwell ride up and after sup [per] had the treat of a letter from S[amuel] M. Kimball. Mon[day, April] 20th. Col. M[arkham]'s family commenced weighing their flour according to Heber's advice last eve[ning], which is a half lb. [pound] pr. day to each person.®[9] Wrote to S[am’l.] M. K[imball.] Tu[esday, April] 21. L[orenzo] came to our place, said P. [ ? ] was unwilling for him to leave thought he would wind up his business after a short time brought a letter from A. L. L. [?]. Col. M[arkham] 's and L[orenzo] Young’s Tens move 8 or 9 miles. Heber not being ready the rest of the Company] remain. Brigham’s Com [pany] encamp a little ahead of us Miller’s between but fire breaking out he moves beyond B[righam]’s. Our people fire the grass around their wagons to prevent its spread. W[ednesday, April] 22d. Taylor’s Com[pany] encamp’d in our rear; towards night saw fire coming towards us with furious rapidity our men immediately set fires to burn a broader space around our encampment, the wind being so strong that it would have swept across almost instantaneously. After getting ourselves secured we gaz'd with admiration & astonishment at the terrific & majestic spread of the devouring element the flames rising at times to the incredible height of 30 & 40 feet. I had often listen’d to and read descriptions of “Prairies on fire,’’ & thought them too highly painted, but can now say that the reality “beggars all description.” Weather fine. Th[ursday, April] 23d. Last night we had some heavy showers—Col. M[arkham]’s Ten remain by ourselves —several com [panic] s are moving on— the feed is so that cattle get a good living on the streams & low swales. We had a pot-pie of turkey b[uzzard]s. Our rations with the milk & butter we have would be an abundance, were they of fine flour—do very well with shorts which is all we have since commenc’d weight—I find that y2 rations would be quite sufficient for me as my appetite has been for several weeks. Fr[iday, April] 24th Heber & the rest of the Company] come up but can go no farther today in consequence of his carriage horses having stray'd— hear of them in the afternoon—several animals snake-bit. Myself very ill. Sat[urday, April] 25th. Wrote the following: To Mrs. Vilate Kimball Thou much belov’d in Zion! Remember, life is made A double-sided picture, Contrasting light and shade. Our Father means to prove us-- And when we're fully tried. He will reverse the drawing And show the better side. And then we'll be astonish'd, That ignorance could throw Such dismal shades of darkness, Where light and beauty glow. The mists that hide the future Are round our vision thrown; But when, as seen, we 're seeing, And know as we are known. Whatever seems forbidding, And tending to annoy, Will, like dull shadows vanish, Or turn to crowns of joy. Left our encampment with some of the wagons, not having sufficient teams, and went about ten m[ile]s—encamp’d on a beautiful green prairie lawn by the side of a small, timber’d stream—my health so ill that I was obliged to ride on my bed. Sun[day, April] 26th. Went five m[ile]s—came up with the general Camp, on the headwaters of the Grand river, the place selected for the first farming establishment. [Garden Grove.] After the meetings of the day, where it was suggested that only men go over the [Rocky] Mtns., the brethren met in council to deliberate on measures, &c. (By abstaining from milk & substituting tea, my health is improving.)[10] Our location is a beautiful, undulating grove, which apparently may become a garden of fruits in a short time, but my spirit rests not here. Mon[day, April] 27th. Commenc’d raining very early in the morning. Fr[iday,] May 1st. Rain’d every day this week.—Warren & Whiting [Markham] go out with the Pioneers to work. [My brother] Lorenzo arrived this eve[ning]. Sun[day,] May 3d. Meeting at B[righam]’s Camp in the mor[ning]—a powerful rain in the eve[ning], Br. Thomas died last night—Br. Barney left for N[auvoo] yester[day]. Tu[esday, May] 5th. Yesterday & today, the first days without rain since we stopp’d here. The brethren exhibit their good disposition in obeying the instructions of last Sunday, which were that all should go to work to s' * this plantation &c.“ Yesterday, sent letter to N[auvoo] to be mail’d for Walnut Grove.[11] Wed[nesday, May] 6th. A heavy storm of wind, rain & hail—some slight injury done in consequence of the falling of limbs from trees. Forgot to mention the circumstance of last Mon[day]. Sis[ter] Whitney presented me a bowl & did us the honor of drinking tea in it at our tent, Col[onel] M[arkham]’s family having tented with Br. Dalton since separating from Br. Yearsley Th[ursday, May] 7th. Sis[ter] Green buried today by the side of Br. T[homas]—she died out in the country where the Pioneers are at work.” Sis[ter] D. Gleason commences boarding with us.[12] Fr[iday, May] 8th. The day fine. Spent it at L[orenzo]’s. {To be continued) [1] From time to time, companies of men either volunteered or were detailed from the journeying camps, and, going off the route, obtained jobs of work for which they received food in payment, to meet the necessities of those who were only partially supplied, and also grain for the teams. . . . As we passed through one town the inhabitants manifested as much curiosity as though they were viewing a traveling menagerie of wild animals. Their levity and apparent heartlessness was, to me, proof of profound ignorance. How little did those people comprehend our movement, and the results the Almighty had in view.—Eliza R. Snow, quoted in Women of Mormondom. (Tullidge), p. 311 208 [2] This was subtitled "Song for the Camp of Israel” and has been omitted. [3] As we journeyed onward, mothers gave birth to offspring under almost every variety of circumstances imaginable, except those to which they had been accustomed, some in tents, others in wagons—in rainstorms and in snow-storms. I heard of one birth which occurred under the rude shelter of a hut, the sides of which were formed of blankets fastened to poles stuck in the ground, with a bark roof through which the rain was dripping. Kind sisters stood holding dishes to catch the water as it fell, thus protecting the newcomer and its mother from a shower-bath as the little innocent first entered on the stage of human life. Through faith in the great Ruler of events, no harm resulted to cither.—Eliza R. Snow, quoted in Women of Mormondom, (Tullidge), pp. 307. 308. [4] Meanwhile, President Brigham Young and others repaired wagons and carriages. [5] From October, 1872, to July, 1873, Eliza R. Snow was one of the party sent by President Brigham Young to dedicate the Holy Land. Two years later she compiled and published Correspondence of Palestine Tourists, a volume of four hundred pages. [6] Later in the journal, under date of Wednesday. May 13, 1846. Eliza R. Snow made the following entry: "My health much improved—I think by using a tea made of Cranesbill." Cranesbill is a species of wild geranium and related herbs. [7] The men designated to clear roads, establish sites and hire out as laborers along the way. [8] We were traveling in the season significantly termed “between hay and grass.” and the teams, feeding mostly on browse, wasted in flesh, and had but little strength; and it was painful, at times, to see the poor creatures straining every joint and ligature, doing their utmost, and’’ looking the very picture of discouragement. When crossing the low ands, where spring rains had soaked the mellow soil, they frequently stalled on level ground, and we could move only by coupling teams, which made very slow progress. From the effects of chills and fever, 1 had not strength to walk much, or I should not have beer Euilty of riding after those half-famished animals, t would require a painter's pencil and skill to represent our encampment when we stopped, as we frequently did, to give the jaded teams a chance to recuperate, and us a chance to straighten up matters and things generally.—Eliza R. Snow, quoted in Women of Mormondom, (Tullidge). p. 312 [9] On the 20th of April we arrived at the headwaters of the Grand River, where it was decided to make a farming establishment, to be a resting and recruiting place for the saints who should follow us. Elders Bent, Benson, and Fullmer were appointed to preside over it.—Eliza R. Snow, quoted in Women of Mormondom, (Tullidge), p. 314 [10] See note 6 [11] Only the sick are idle; not a stove or cooking utensil out is called into requisition, while tubs, washboards, etc., are one-half mile distant, where washing is being done by the side of a stream of water beneath the shade of waving branches. I join Sister Markham in the washing department, and get a buggy ride to the scene of action, where the boys have the fire in waiting—while others of our mess | company] stop in the city and do the general work of housekeeping, and for our dinner send us a generous portion of their immense potpie. designed to satisfy the hunger of about thirty stomachs. It is made of rabbits, squirrels, quails, prairie chickens, etc., trophies of the success of our hunters, of whom each division has its quota. Thus from time to time we are supplied with fresh meat, which does much in lengthening out our flour. Occasionally our jobbers take bacon in payment, but what I have seen of that article is so rancid that nothing short of prospective starvation would tempt me to eat it.—Eliza R. Snow, quoted in Women of Mormondom, (Tullidge). p. 313 Eliza's parents located at Walnut Grove, Illinois [about ninety-five miles northeast of Nauvoo], after the exodus from Kirtland and lived there until their death. [12] Many of our Sisters walked all day, rain or shine, and at night prepared suppers for their families. with no sheltering tents, and then made their beds in and under wagons that contained their earthly all. How frequently, with intense sympathy and admiration, I watched the mother, when, forgetful of her own fatigue and destitution, she took ' unwearied pains to fix up, in the most palatable form, the allotted portion of food, and as she dealt it out was cheering the hearts of her homeless children, while, as I truly believed, her own was lifted to God in fervent prayer that their lives might be preserved, and. above all, that they might honor him in the religion for which she was an exile from the home once sacred to her. for the sake of those precious ones that God had committed to her care.—Eliza R. Snow, quoted in Women of Mormondom, (Tullidge), p. 312 |
—From a painting by Howard Pyle
PRAIRIE GRASS ELIZA R. SNOW—PHOTOGRAPH TAKEN IN CAIRO, EGYPT, DURING PALESTINE TOUR
GARDEN GROVE, THE PLACE SELECTED FOR THE "FIRST FARMING ESTABLISHMENT" —A MAJOR BY- STATION OF IMMEASURABLE ASSISTANCE TO THE PIONEER COMPANIES WHICH FOLLOWED
SECOND STAGE OF THE JOURNEY—FIGURES ALONG THE ROUTE INDICATE MILES TRAVELED BETWEEN DATES
|
"Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow." Improvement Era. May 1943. pg. 272-273, 316-317.
Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow PART III 1846 Saturday, May 9. [Brigham] passing, stopp'd in. Call'd into Sarah's. Found Sis[ter] Whitney quite ill with her lame wrist & in a discourag’d state of mind—she was administered to by father Smith, Whitney & Kimball. Sunday, May 10. Preaching in the forenoon—sacrament in the afternoon —pass’d that this establishment [Garden Grove] be the property of those who go on, & be for a resting place for those behind. Father Bent, br. Benson & br. Fulmer appointed to preside here [Garden Grove], The day fine, I was not able to attend meeting tho’. Monday, May 11. Parley's [P. Pratt] com[pany] leave with the expectation of going to the big Platte to commence a farm. Geo. A. [Smith] arrived today with his [company of] ten. Amasa Lyman came up & call’d on us. Whiting [Markham] return'd [from the Pioneer Camp]. Tuesday, May 12th. The Camp wish to move forward. George Boyd starts for Grand river to notify those of our Com[pany] who are there with teams —I visited B[righa]m’s Camp, found Eliza, had a few minutes interview with Sis [ter] Young . . . confirm'd the promise of my health. Heber and father Chase 6 family leave to cross the creek. Wednesday, May 13. B[righa]m’s Com[pany] leave this morning,-- Amus’d myself by reading one of Walter Scott’s poems entitled "Rokeby.” My health much improv’d—I think by using a tea made of cranesbill for a few days past. Last eve[ning] the clouds threaten'd a heavy shower, but pass'd off with little rain. Rain’d little today, but at night a heavy storm came on. I saw the funeral train following to its wilderness grave a little child of br. Gurley. It was a lonely sight—my feelings truly sympathize with those who are call'd to leave their dear relatives by the way. Br. Hanes having had considerable difficulty—his Com[pany] is broken up. Thursday, May 14th. Last night a very heavy rain. Friday, May 15th. Bishop W[hitney] & family leave us this morning. Every departure makes us more & more lonely—it seems almost like the days of Peleg when the earth was divided but we hope to follow soon—may be the pleasure of meeting compensates for the parting. Sunday, May 17. The meeting held at Taylor’s camp, which has not mov’d. Yesterday I enjoy'd the novel scenery of a quilting out-of-doors, after which with much conviviality & agreeable sociability the party took tea with sister 272 Dalton, the mistress of the quilting— present Sis[ter] Markham, Yearsley, Gleason, Harriet & Catherine. Our treat was serv’d in the tent, around a table of bark, spread on bars, supported by four crotches driven into the ground —and consisted of light biscuits & butter, dutch cheese, peach sauce, custard pie & tea. This eve. Warren return’d—had but little success in the country—Yearsley not expected for several days—looks rather discouraging but we are not at all discourag’d, tho’ we hear that the Comp [any] is 30 m[ile]s ahead & still going on. Monday, May 18. Capt. [Wm.] Smith & [Amasa] Lyman, [Bp.] Whitney leave us quite masters of the field— altho’ so much alone, I feel no despondency—my health is daily improving & my spirits buoyant—I feel that the blessing of the Lord & the blessings of many who have gone on attend me. Surely happiness is not altogether the product of circumstances—our father who watches over his children’s welfare will order all things for good—if we will put our trust in him, we need not fear. But I find from every day’s experience, that while we are thrown into the midst of all sorts of spirits, it is my lot to have one about me that is a constant annoyance, one with whom I cannot & will not hold fellowship—thro’ whose instrumentality much disquietude has been occasioned! Tuesday, May 19. This morning a circumstance occurr’d which renew’d my reflections on the subject of family government. Without order all is confusion, & without mutual action in the head, (& mutual feeling & mutual understanding must produce mutual action) there can be no order. One parent must support the claims to respect for the other & this can never be done while either exposes the faults of the other in the presence of the children. In the eve[ning] we took leave of our transient place of residence—cross’d the Creek over which the brethren had built a bridge, & went perhaps 3 ms., leaving Sis. Yearsley in waiting for her husband not yet return’d from the country. Our encampment consists of 3 wagons to wit: Col. M [arkham]s, Warren’s & Capt. Dalton’s. Wednesday, May 20. Rain’d all day—did not leave; Bro. Dany came up. Thursday, May 21. Rain’d in the forenoon, did not leave. Friday, May 22. Travel’d 5 m[ile]s, came up with Turley & Smith. Saturday, May 23. Travel’d 12 m[ile]s over a rolling prairie. Horace Whitney & King came up with us last night, who had gone with teams to assist Col. Markham, br. Yearsley &c. to the next location. We overtook Gen. [Charles C.] Rich—met Kingsbury & L. [?] W. [?] going out to trade— pass'd a guide board &c. Sunday, May 24 th. Travel’d 10 or 11 ms.-- Monday, May 25th. Rain’d heavily last night—streams overflow the bridges & render them almost impassable. After crossing one where the men carried the women over, (br. W. Cahoon liberally contributing his services as ferry-boat), we ascended a hill on which we had the novel pleasure of viewing a huge pile of stones. We arriv’d at the Camp situated in a small grove with a beautiful prospect; happy once more to meet with home & friends. On the middle fork of the Grand River.[1] Bishop Miller had started out before our arrival. Tuesday, May 26th. Spent the day at [my brother] Lorenzo’s. Call’d at Pres. Young’s. Hard shower last night. Saturday, May 30th. Spent the day with Sis[ter] Whitney & Kimball at Sarah’s—the br[ethre]n rode out for council. Had a pleasant interview with Sis[ter] Young & spoke with [Prest. Young]. Sunday, May 31st. Conference today interrupted with rain. Harriet [Snow] call’d in the eve[ning]. Said L[orenzo] is quite sick—sent him some aloy [aloe]. Br. N. Rogers died. Monday, June 1st. The month commences with a volley of nature’s tears—quite cold. D. Gleason 5 I are in the wagon with a kettle of coals. Last night I dream’d that Sis [ter] M[arkham] came to me much animated 6 said that the calculation for us to stop here was revers’d & said we were to go on—which she this morn[ing] fulfill’d in part—not exactly. I do not know why some are call'd to more self denial than others—I pray that I may live to see the time when patience & submission will be rewarded in righteousness. Inasmuch as I have plead the cause of the oppress’d at the risk of life, (for my life has been openly threaten’d in consequence of it)—inasmuch as I have ever plead the cause of liberty, I think God would approbate & sanction as a just right for me to be present when the saints shall rear the standard to the nations of the earth; at all events I prefer stopping behind for the present that every possible means may be appropriated to liberate the Twelve from the oppression of selfish ones who never have made sacrifices for the truth’s sake —yet I find a trial to my feelings in being separated from those with whom I have ever been associated in the Church. Brown’s com[pany] cross the river today—Sis[ter] Sessions brought me the Hancock Eagle, from Sis[ter] Lyon & bade "good bye!” Tuesday, June 2. Those of Heber’s [C. Kimball] com[pany] who were ready, leave today with a mingled sensation of pleasure & regret. I bade sis. K[imball] & those connected '"farewell.” She made me a little present which I prize much for her sake. A. Fielding arriv’d. Wednesday, June 3. Bish [op] W[hitney] & family leave this morning]. Sister W[hitney] came to our wagon & sang me a beautiful song of Zion, which I rejoic’d in as a parting blessing—it is a season not to be forgotten. Whiting [Markham] goes to drive team for Heber [C. Kimball]. About noon Harriet [Snow] came & helping me to a horse, I rode home with her—found [my brother] L[orenzo] very sick, altho’ the medicine I sent on Sun [day] eve[ning] had a good effect. I pray the Lord to restore him to health —I feel the worth of his unremitting kindness to myself and others.—Walk’d home at night. Thursday, June 4. Bro. Dal ton l eft —Wrote a letter to S[arah] M. [Kimball] expecting Br. M[arkham] to start to Nauvoo but he did not get off. Mov’d into a house built of logs, some peal’d & s ome with bark on, layed up cob fashion from 3 to 8 inches apart— the roof form'd by stretching the tent cloth over the ridge pole & fastening at the bottom on the outside, which, with carpeting, blankets, &c., fasten’d up at the north end to prevent the wind which is almost cold as winter, we find ourselves very comfortably & commodiously situated. Heard that one of the br[ethre]n, sent to Brown for a yoke of cattle which he had appropriated—I not only feel reconciled, but rejoice that we stopp’d that others may have the means, br. M[arkham] having given up all his (Continued on page 316) cattle & one wagon for the benefit of the cause. Friday, June 5. Col. M[arkham] left for Nauvoo. S. Smith, Adeline [Snow], Aunt G. & Harriet [Snow] arrive. Sunday, June 7. Yesterday I was sent for to visit Lorenzo, found him worse—Orson Pratt crossed the river today after meeting. Orson Hyde arriv'd yesterday or the day before. Yesterday, saw Leonora [Lorenzo Snow's sister] & the girls [daughters Cornelia and Melissa]—but the pleasure of our meeting was lessened by our brother's severe illness. Wednesday, June 10. Smith & Calvin start for Fox river. Thursday, June 11. Lorenzo seems considerably better; in the eve' I returned to Br. M[arkham's]. The last few days have pass'd in such anxiety—I feel great reason for thankfulness that the Lord has giv'n me strength to administer to L[orenzo]. Time passes almost imperceptibly yet every day brings the arrival of saints from the City [Nauvoo] and the departure of saints from Mount Pisgah. Amasa Lyman crosses the river today—parted with Cornelia, &c. Saturday, June 13. Sent for to visit L[orenzo] again —found him worse, stayed till Sun[day] eve[ning]. Propos'd that Porter [Squires] make a garden. Monday, June 15. Harriet [Snow] came to let me know that L[orenzo] is very raving. I walk'd over & found him in a distressed condition. Father H[untington] & Gen. R[ich] soon came. They administer'd to him & leaving him in the care of Br. Hoyt, said they would go & clothe & pray for him in the order of the Priesthood. He soon became calm—had a short return of the paroxysm in the eve [ning]. I sat by him all night—he rested quietly. P[orter Squires] is making garden at Father M [orley] 's camp. Tuesday, June 16. Elder [Wilford] Woodruff call'd to see us—had a very pleasant interview—he administer'd to L[orenzo]. Wednesday, June 17. L Lorenzo] was baptized [for his health]—I re-turned to Col. M[arkham's] in the evening. Thursday, June 18. Rain'd very little, our people finish planting gardens. Saturday, June 20. Yes [terday] a letter was receiv'd from Brigham's Camp which is 125 m[ile]s from here, where they propose stopping to replenish their provisions, build boats &c. Br. [Ezra C.] Benson returns, who left a week ago to visit the Camp. Br. & Sis [ter] Smoot call'd on us. Wednesday, June 24. It has been very cold & windy for several days— commenc'd raining in the night, rain'd all day. Monday eve [ning] a meet was call'd & a letter read from Headquarters calling for 100 men, baggage, wagons, &c. Reported that Boggs is ahead of the Camp with troops—My health im-proving—Yes[terday] sis[ter] Gleason sewed a hat of my braid—O Lord, my God, I pray for health that I may be useful. Friday, June 26. Amos Rogers died last night. Saturday, June 27. Heard that a messenger pass'd thro' here on Thursday eve[ning] bringing word that Col. Backenstos & Markham were at the head of a Com[pany] of troops last Sunday to defeat Williams who was at Golden's Point with 500 mob &c. L[orenzo] had his wagon driv'n to our tent & I could not disuade him from his purpose but I must go with him to Father [Isaac C.] Morley's settlement about a mile up the river, where Porter [Squires] has made a garden. Forgot to mention that four Government Officers were here on Friday to raise volunteers for the Mexican war. Tuesday, June 30. A very heavy rain last eve[ningl. Fath [er] [Isaac C.] Morley & famfily] leave this afternoon for the west. I wrote to sis[ter] W[oodruff and K[imball]. The last word from the Camp is for all to come on who can. Wednesday, July 1. P[arley] P. Pratt arriv'd from the Camp in two days or a little more—a meeting call’d — [Eira C.] Benson who with father Huntington & Gen. [Chas. C.] Rich, form'd the presidency here, is appointed to take the place of J[ohn] E. Page in the quorum of Twelve. I[saac] Morely is to be sent for to return & fill his place as Coun[selor] to f[ather] H[untington]. A Com[pany] of 500 without families are call’d for to go with the Twelve over the mountains. I have been quite sick since I left Mt. Pisgah—am some better. Thursday, July 2. L[orenzo] walk’d from the wag [on] to the garden— seems getting well. The weather is extremely hot. Sunday, July 5. Br. Little, who is appointed to preside over the eastern churches, at meeting today is on his way to the Twelve with business from Washington. [1] The first of June found us in a small grove on the middle fork of Grand River. This place, over which Elders [Charles C. Rich and [William] Huntington were called to preside, was named Pisgah; and from this point most of the divisions filed off. one after an-other. Colonel Markham appropriated all of his teams and one wagon to assist the Twelve and others to pursue the journey westward, while he returned to the States for a fresh supply. Companies were constantly arriving and others departing; while those who intended stopping till the next spring were busily engaged in making gardens, and otherwise preparing for winter—sheltering themselves in rude log huts for temporary residence. The camps were strung along for several hundred miles in length from front to rear.—Eliza R. Snow, quoted in Women of Mormondom (Tullidge), p. 314 |
MT. PISGAH MONUMENT—NEAR THE BASE APPEARS THE INSCRIPTION: LENORA CHARLOTTE SNOW, DAUGHTER OF ELDER LORENZO AND CHARLOTTE SQUIRES SNOW
SITE OF MT. PISGAH
A CONFERENCE ALONG THE PIONEER TRAIL
THE DATES ON THIS MAP ARE THOSE OF THE
ADVANCE PARTY AND ARE SEVERAL WEEKS AHEAD OF THE GROUP IN WHICH ELIZA R. SNOW TRAVELED, AS WILL BE SEEN FROM THE DATES IN THE DIARY |
"Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow." Improvement Era. June 1943. pg. 334-335, 356.
Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow PART IV GARDEN GROVE—1846 Tuesday, July 7. [Pres.] Brigham [Young] & Heber [C. Kimball], arriv’d last eve[ning], a general meeting call’d today—Volunteers call’d for to go to California in the U[nited] S[tates] service—the same business Br. Little was commission'd with, who returned with B [righam] & H[eber].[1] Thursday, July 9. Yesterday we had the honor of a visit from B[righam], H[eber], Dr. Richards & W. Markham —all in good health & spirits. Said L[orenzo] must get out of this place as soon as possible—must come on to G[rand] Island. L[orenzo] asked what he should do for provisions when he gets there. B[righam] said, do as I shall tell you after you get there—they administer’d to Porter [Squires] who has been quite sick for several days, but now appears to be on the mend. I told B[righam] I wanted his promise that we shall come—he said, we shall if we obey counsel. Weather extremely hot. Friday, July 10. Br. [Wm.] Smith return’d with a supply of meal, flour & meat—he has taken a job near Bonaparte where Calvin is at work—expects to get an outfit of provisions ‘for the Mts. [mountains] & to be here to start for G[rand] Island about the 1st of Sep[tember] according to present calculations. Sunday, July 12. Busy at work preparing Porter [Squires] to go with [Wm.] Smith who starts back tomorrow—The handmill is now dismiss'd —it has supplied us with bread for some time. Tuesday, July 14. Return'd to Br. Markham’s—found David sick. Sis[ter] M[arkham] gone after hat timber—Charlotte [Snow] & I took dinner with sis[ter] Page. Wednesday, July 15. Sis[ter] Page starts this mor[ning] for the Bluffs— leaving Sis[ter] M[arkham], W[hiting], C. [?], D[avid] & myself sole occupants of the habitation & almost of the soil, most of the brethren having left—I commence to braid. Sunday, July 19. David quite sick with the ague which he has had for three days—is administer’d to—I have braided for one hat per day since I return’d. Tuesday, July 21. Sis[ter] Gleason return’d—had been for some time over the river. Thursday, July 23. Sis[ter] Ally & E. [?] P. [?] call’d on us—both sick with the ague. David [Markham] has got quite smart—we are looking for br. M [arkham]. Friday, July 24. Finish’d the braid for 60 hats since br. M[arkham] went away—braided for 11 myself. Tuesday, July 28. Harriet [Snow] & Sarah [Snow] spend the day with us—both better of the ague.[2] Monday, August 3. Lorenzo[3] rode over to see us. Last night br. Mark[ham] arriv’d in the night—left his teams six m[ile]s back—they arriv’d in the forenoon—Sis[ter] M[arkham] quite ill—prospects unpromising—more folks than means—br. G[reen] arriv’d. Tuesday, Aug. 4. Sis[ter] M [arkham] worse. Sis[ter] Green call’d on us—br. & sis[ter] Gleason cross the river with the prospect of going on with Sis[ter] Green. Saturday, Aug. 8. Wrote 3 letters, one for br. M[arkham] one for Sis[ter] Fairchild & one for Catherine]. Sunday, Aug. 9. Yesterd[ay] Br. Benson was here—administered to Sis[ter] M[arkham] Warren & Cath[arine]—they are all better today. )live arriv'd yest[erday], Albert Dimick having gone for her 4 days ago to the lower farm—sis[ter] Fairchild commenc'd living by herself—it is a growling, grumbling, devilish, sickly time with us now. I hope never to sec another week like the past one—yet I have great reason to be thankful that it is so well with me—my health is good for this hot weather. J. Gleason & wife left last Friday—started on yes[terday] with sis[ter] Green—Have been a little at a loss how to do, but conclude to see the game thro’ & enjoy the scenery. The fam[ily] now consisting of br. M[arkham] & wife, Wfarren] & wife—David, Olive, Margaret and myself—& I had forgotten to mention Olive’s son Chancey. Monday, Aug. 10. Sis[ter] M[ark ham] was worse last nicjht, still growing worse. Commenc’d giving her nervine & pepper. W[arren] & C[hancey] a little better. Tuesday, Aug. 11. Sis[ter] M[ark ham]'s symptoms favorable—continue the nervine & p[epper] with Martin’s antibilious pills. . . . Wednesday, Aug. 12. This mom. had the pleasure of perusing a letter from S[arah] M. Kimball—by the hand of Porter Rockwell who arriv’d day before yest[erday]. Wrote 2 letters to send by him to the upper Camp—one to H[eber] C. Kimball & one to sis[ter] L[awrence]. Monday, Aug. 17. Last eve[ning] I rode to L[orenzo]’s on horseback— found them well—his health comfortable—stayed over night. We expected to have started this mor[ning], but br. M[arkham]’s oxen stray’d & we were only able to go 3 m’s. across the river. It is indeed a time of trial—most of the people at Mt. Pisgah are sick—heard of the death of father Bent—he was a good man—his loss will be felt in Zion.[4] Tuesday, Aug. 18. When we cross'd the river yes[terday] found br. Cummings, whom br. Markham expected for company, had gone in the morning— & we were left with only his own family in a forbidding situation for a journey in consequence of sickness & lameness. Sis[ter] Fairchild stops for br. M[ark ham] to send back for her, & the fam[ily] consists of br. & sis[ter] M [arkham], W[arren] & his wife, David, myself, Margaret, Olive & her little boy about 3 years & Albert Dimick. We have 3 wagons, 4 yoke of oxen & seven cows & heifers & one calf. They talk’d of taking Alma Fairchild to drive one of the teams, but for the purpose of lessening care, lodging &c. Sis[ter] M[arkham] propos’d that she & I drive the wagon in which we ride, Olive & Margaret occupying one wagon & W[arren] & C[hancey] the other. Accordingly A[lma] & M[argaret] who came to assist on the start rode back to Mt. Pisgah with P[arley] P. Pratt, who met us last night at our encampment on his way to England. From exertion & too much exercise Sis[ter] M[arkham] is quite sick & unable to sit up —I drive, of course the boys assisting over bad places. Br. M[arkham] drives the wagon for O[live] & M[argaret], Albert & David by turns driving Warren’s & the other driving the loose cows. W[arren] not able to sit up. C. some better, br. M[arkham’s] hand lame, Olive very delicate & I am so nearly tired out by exerting myself to assist the sick, particularly sis[ter] M[arkham] that I can do little but sit in the wagon & drive, but withal we get along first rate traveling about 18 ms. [a day] on a good road. Stop’d late at night about ;.A m[ile] from the road. Wednesday, Aug. 19. Rain’d last night—cloudy all day—Sis[ter] M [ark ham] very sick. W[arren] & C. some better, camp'd at night on the 3rd branch of the Grand river, where we found br. Cummings, with 5 wagons. I drove our wagon all day without any trouble. Tonight we are 40 ms. from Mt. Pisgah. Thursday, August 20. Our sick are better, before noon br. M[arkham] made an arrangement to drive his cows with br. C[umming]s’ and David drive our team. A little before night Whiting met us; he took Albert’s] place in driving Warren’s wagon, leaving Albert] & D Jimmie] for us by turns. At noon cross a the 4th branch of G[rand] river. Friday, August 21. The weather is very cool & fine for traveling. We go on as usual, D[avid] driving for us in the mor[ning], chang’d with A[lbert] about 10 o’clock, who was assisting to drive the loose cattle. He was soon taken with a chill, sick all day. I drove till we stop’d for nooning, after which D[avid] drove. About 5 in the eve we came in sight of an Indian settlement of about 100 wigwams of the Pottawattamie tribe.—When [with] in about a mile of the first huts, we were amus’d to see them riding at full speed to meet us—bringing sacks of com & beans which they were very anxious to sell us for money or "swap” for meat, baskets, &c. They were all pretty well cloth’d & well decorated—talk English some—appear happy & very friendly. Their improvements are small, but neatly cultivated—being done by the females—the business of the men being hunting. We cross'd 2 branches of the Nationa Botana [Nishnebole River] or the Sleeping rock, about 24 mile distant from each other—it being quite late we were oblig’d to encamp on the bluff of the western branch in the vicinity of the Indians. They were about our wagons till after dark, and we were fearful of their thievish skill being exhibited at our expense during the night, but suffer’d no annoyance whatsoever—traveled 12 or 16 ms. Saturday, August 22. Br. M[arkham] taken with a chill in the morning, SICK all day—in the afternoon sat up some, travel'd about 12 ms. & encamp’d on the prairie. Sunday, August 23. Started before breakfast for the want of wood & water. Leave Cummings’ com[pany]. A[lbert] & D[avid] drive the cows in the mor[ning]. Whiting drove us a little while when he took Warren’s team & I drove the rest of the day. Br. M[arkham] able to drive nis—about the middle of the forenoon A[lbert] came to our wagon with a chill—we travel’d about 5 ms., came to a creek where we overtook br. Cams—took a luncheon & went on perhaps 4 ms.—came to another branch of the Nationa Botana [Nishnebole]. Here we found the bridge in a dilapidated state in consequence of the flood—wood having been wash'd away, but we cross’d without any accident & encamp’d in the shade of a fine grove of timber which skirts this stream on both sides. Br. Cum[mings] came up before night—they went to work to repair the bridge, & did not cross. Sister M[arkham] better. Monday, August 24. The cattle stray’d & we were detain’d till afternoon, when we started & went 5 or 6 ms. & encamped on a small stream. I drove our wagon—David drove for his who had a chill. A[lbert] left the calf behind which made late business for night. Tuesday, August 25. A[lbert] very sick—about noon we came to where a settlement was commenc'd on a considerable prairie stream. I cannot describe the feelings which occupied my bosom while passing this place; it seem'd like a desolation & the wasting of the house of Israel; yet I almost doubted if any real Israelite would stop in such a place: Here we overtook br. Cum[mings'] Com[pany] again, also br. Coon's. Saw a grave digging & a rudely constructed coffin, the sides of plank & cover'd with bark, prepared for internment. Sis[ter] M[arkham] was just able to wait on A[lbert] while I drove thro' the day. Encamp d on Log [?] Creek. Br. M[arkham] last night & night before took lodging in the wagon he drove. Wednesday, Aug. 26. About noon we arriv'd at the celebrated “Council Bluffs” presenting a scene that is truly wildly beautiful. We drove on to the flat which is call'd about 8 ms. wide, cover'd with a luxuriant growth of grass, & stop'd to bait the cattle. While stopping here [President] Brigham [Young], Heber [C. Kimball], Father [Isaac C.] Morley, W.[?], K.[?J & P[orter] Rockwell drove up in a car down it was motion'd & carried that fath[er] M[orley] move to the headquarter encampment. This mor[ning] br. M[arkham] manifested a mean jealousy which I need not describe. Thursday, August 27. Rode on horseback from Council Point to br. M[orley]'s encampment,[5] 2 or 3 ms. down the river. Had an opportunity of viewing the bank of the stream which in many places was wash’d out to a considerable depth, leaving only the turf which seem’d ready to break off & precipitate in the river whatever should be so unfortunate as to venture upon it. The opposite bluffs rudely scallop’d with shrubbery presents a scene that might well be call’d wildly beautiful. Before we reach’d the ferry we pass’d a village with perhaps 50 huts or houses, inhabited by French 6 Indians], &c. &c., we cross’d 6 went 4 ms. to the cold spring where we found sis. Green, br. Carns & quite a company]. Friday, August 28. On our way to the Camp, we saw before us a com[pany] of Ind[ians]. Br. M[arkham] was driving the front team & thinking they were holding a council, he turn’d off the road that we might not interrupt them. They soon made signs for us to return to the road which we did, when they refus’d to let us proceed. They form’d a circle in our front and commenc’d a war dance, after which they wanted something to eat: Our people contributed crackers, bread, meat, &c., then they said we might go on—they accompanied us some 3 or 4 ms., much to the annoyance of our teams. The cattle which I was driving became so furious thro’ fear, that Whiting had to leave his father’s wagon, who was sick, & drive for us. When the Ind[ians] met the Com [pany] returning from the Camp, who had been up to attend Council with the brethren, they turn’d & left us. We saw more than 200 in all, 75 or 80 of whom were returning from Council. They were of several tribes, to wit: Omahaws, Mohaws, Ota’s. We arriv'd at the camp 14 ms. from the Springs, 2 or 3 hours before sunset but instead of joining our old associates as we anticipated, our location was ½ ml. distant on an opposite hill, which was nam’d Hunter's ridge. Here we have a fine view of the general Camp which presents a curious appearance of grandeur & rusticity—the tents & wagons being arrang'd so as to form hollow circles nearly on the summit of the ridge, the western side of which is cover’d with yards for the cattle & horses, made with round poles, & at times teeming with living animals. Saw sis. Whitney, Sarah [Kimball], sis. Lott & Elvira, &c. Saturday, August 29. Margaret quite sick, having been threaten’d with the chills for several days. Sis. M [arkham] heard by the by that br. M[arkham] recommended for M[argaret] & Ollive] to commence cooking by themselves this mor [ning]. Our encampment receives much addition by wagons coming up. Sis. Hunter with 2 of their wagons arrive, he remaining at the Bluffs, all sick. Sister M[arkham] better. I go to my trade—make a pair of pants for David. Bish[op] Newel K. Whit[ney] & Edwin D. Woolley left for St. Louis on the 1st of Sept[ember] —W. Kim[ball] started for Nauvoo in one week afterwards. Cornelia [Leavitt] wrote for me to S[arah] M. Kim[ball] on business. Sis. Whitney & Sis. Kim [ball] replied to the last she wrote. I was taken sick on the last day of Aug. of a fever, which ran nearly 40 days and terminated in the chills & fever. During this time, while suffering much in body, & lying as it were at the gate of death, with family discord, which I think proper to call hell, reigning around me, I had the satisfaction of experiencing kindness from many of my friends, which is indelibly inscrib’d upon my memory: particularly Cornelia C. Lfeavitt], Sis. Whitney, Sis. Kimball, Sis. Young, Sis. Lott, Sis. Holmes & Sis. Taylor, without whose attentions I must have suffer'd much more, as I was the last in the fam[ily] taken sick & nobody able to wait on or administer to me as I needed. I cannot recollect dates, but not long after the commencement of my sickness a heavy rain came on 6 the bed where I lay was wet almost from head to foot, but the Lord preserv’d my life, 6 while I live I will speak of His goodness. (To be continued) [1] “One of the requisitions came officially to President Young, from the United States government, demanding five hundred efficient men to be drawn from our traveling camps, to enter the United States military service, and march immediately to California and assist in the war with Mexico. "Upon receipt of this demand, President Young and Heber C. Kimball, with due loyalty to an unprotective government, under which we had been exiled from our homes, started immediately from their respective divisions, on horseback, calling for volunteers, from one extremity of our lines to the other, and in an almost incredibly short time the Ave hundred men, who constituted the celebrated ‘Mormon Battalion.' were under marching orders, commanded by Col. Allen, of the United States Infantry. It was our ‘country's call.' and the question, ‘Can we spare one hundred of our most ablebodied men?' was not asked. But it was a heavy tax—a cruel draft—one which imposed accumulated burdens on those who remained, especially our women, who were under the necessity of driving their own teams from the several points from which their husbands and sons left, to the Salt Lake Valley. Some of them walked the whole of that tedious distance."—Eliza R. Snow, quoted in Women of Mormondom (Tullidge), p. 315. [2] At 2 p.m. a thunder shower commenced from the west and continued one hour. It rained till midnight, the water ran six inches deep through the tents; no wagon was exempt from water, and goods and provisions were more or less damaged. No one in camp remembered such a succession of heavy thunder and lightning, and so much rain in so short a time. An ox was killed by lightning. Elder Woodruff's carriage was blown by the wind down the hill, turned bottom side upwards, and the top broken to pieces. Sister Woodruff had .just left the carriage. (At one of the advance camps.) —Journal History. July 28. 1846 [3] The population of Mt. Pisgah increased until it reached 2,000 souls. Because of exposure and hardships, the records show that about 150 died at Mt. Pisgah during the first six months of its settlement. Aunt Eliza's brother. Lorenzo Snow, became so ill that his life was despaired. After his partial recovery, although not well enough to travel. President Brigham Young appointed him to remain as presiding elder at the new' settlement. ‘‘During the long winter months," he says, “I sought to keep up the spirits and courage of the Saints at Pisgah, not only by inaugurating meetings for religious worship but also by proper amusements. Because of our circumstances these were primitive in character and their novel simplicity was unlike anything before witnessed. As many as possible crowded in my humble family mansion, a one story ediAce. about 15 by 30. made of logs, with a dirt floor and roof. We carpeted the floor with a thin coating of clean straw, and draped the walls with white sheets from our featherless beds. “To light our hall we selected the largest turnips from the pit—scooped out the interior. Axed short candles in them, placing some around the walls and suspending others from the ceiling of earth and cane. The light through those turnip rinds was picturesque. “We served a dish of succotash composed of short speeches, full of life and sentiment, spiced with enthusiasm, appropriate songs, recitations, toasts, conundrums, exhortations, etc., etc. At the close all seemed perfectly satisfied and withdrew, feeling as happy as though they were not homeless. . . . “My only cow sickened and died, a loss which we seriously felt. She had been a great help to us on our journey, by supplying us with milk—was remarkably domesticated, kind and gentle. She was a present from Sister Hinckley, of Portage County, Ohio. People familiar with the circumstances of the Saints at that time will readily pardon my family for shedding a few tears on the occasion. “One night when our animals were driven into the corral, we discovered one steer was missing. Early the next morning, I discovered, on the opposite side of the river, the head and horns of my drowned ox protruding out between some large cakes of ice. I must confess a feeling of sadness stole over me. It broke up one of my teams which it really seemed impossible for me either to spare or to replace.”— Lorenzo Snow's Journal Lorenzo Snow spent the winter at Pisgah while his sister Eliza was at Winter Quarters.—LeRoi C. Snow [4] August 17 we bade goodbye to Mount Pisgah. Brother Markham was minus one teamster, and as Mrs. Markham and I were to constitute the occupants of one wagon, with a gentle yoke of oxen, she proposed to drive. But, soon after we started, she was taken sick, and, of course, the driving fell to me. Had it been a horseteam I should have been amply qualified, but driving oxen was entirely a new business: however I took the whip and very soon learned to "haw and gee." and acquitted myself, as teamster, quite honorably, driving most of the way to winter quarters. The cattle were so well trained that I could sit. and drive. At best, however, it was fatiguing—the family being all sick by turns, and at times I had to cook, as well as nurse the sick; all of which I was thankful for strength to perform.— Eliza R. Snow, quoted in Women of Mormondom (Tullidge). p. 316 [5] On the 27th (August, 1846) we crossed the Missouri at Council Bluffs, and the next day came up with the general camp at winter quarters. From exposure and hardship I was taken sick soon after with a slow fever, that terminated in chills and fever, and as I lay sick in my wagon, where my bed was exposed to heavy autumnal rains, and sometimes wet nearly from head to foot. I realized that I was near to the gate of death: but my trust was in God, and his power preserved me. Many were sick around us, and no one could be properly cared for under the circumstances. Although, as before stated, I was exposed to the heavy rains while in the wagon, worse was yet to come. On the 28th a company, starting out for supplies, required the wagon that Sister Markham and had occupied; and the log house we moved into was but partly chinked and mudded, leaving large crevices for the wind—then cold and blustering. This hastily erected hut was roofed on one side, with a tentcloth thrown over the other, and, withal, was minus a chimney. A fire, which was built on one side, filled the house with smoke until it became unendurable. Sister Markham had partially recovered from her illness, but was quite feeble. I was not able to sit up much, and, under those circumstances, not at all, for the fire had to be dispensed with. Our cooking was done out of doors until after the middle of November, when a chimney was made, the house enclosed, and other improvements added, which we were prepared to appreciate. Eliza R. Snow, quoted in Women of Mormondom. (Tullidge) pp. 316, 317. |
THE PIONEERS' FIRST VIEW OF THE MISSOURI RIVER
PIONEER JOURNEY
The dates on the map are those of the advance company. The company in which Eliza R. Snow traveled followed this route a few weeks later, as will be seen from the diary. |
"Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow." Improvement Era. July 1943. pg. 398, 434-435.
Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow PART V AT WINTER QUARTERS—1846 About this time a circumstance occur'd which I would forbear to mention, but having omitted some of a similar nature to which I have at times wish’d to refer, I will take notice of it. Without attempting to describe the cause, one night, probably after many of the Camp had retired—tho’ it could not have been late in the eve. for Sis. M[arkham] was very feeble at the time (which circumstance would have prevented an untimely exposure to the night air) a conversation took place between Col. M[arkham] & his wife of a[1] most disgraceful nature; and the loud & fervent tones in which it was uttered must have made it quite public thro’out the Camp. Revenge & retaliation seem’d the ruling spirits of each, & the pow’rs of darkness seem’d holding a jubilee around us. About the 8th of Sept. br. M[arkham] mov'd his & Warren’s wagons some 40 or 50 rods to a creek, leaving Margaret & Olive with the camp. Here B[righa]m call'd to see [me] for the second time since our arrival. My health continued very ill with little improvement. Sunday, September 20. An alarm was given thro’out the Camp in consequence of a rumor that a mob was crossing the river to molest us during the nignt. Tuesday, September 22. We mov’d near the river, it having been counsel’d for the Camp to be in more compact order for the general safety—which place being appointed for our winter quarters. Our place in Heber’s Division. October. About the 22nd of this month, Sis [ter] M[arkham] invited Heber & wife, Sis. W. & father [John Smith] & mother Smith to sup on a splendid pot pie made of veal &c., when Father S[mith] reminded me of an old promise to write for him. I was not able to write, but thro’ the blessing of God, in a few days after I wrote the following: To THE PATRIARCH, FATHER JOHN SMITH Great glory awaits thee, thou father in Israel To reward all thy toils thy labors of love; The angels that guard thee—that watch o’er thy pathway Are proud to report thee in councils above. [4 verses follow] Wednesday, October 28. A com[pany] of 15 start with teams for St. Joseph after the goods which Bishop W[hitney] & E[dwin] D. Woolley brought up from St. Louis. Whiting being one to go we were under the necessity of going from the wagon that he might take it. The day was very cold & blustering—the house into which we mov’d was partly chink'd & only mudded on one side only covered on one side, the other having the tent thrown over it, & no chimney. Friday, November 20. Whiting return'd. Sunday, November 22. My health quite ill, the day very fine. Monday, November 23. This mor[ning] Warren getting quite irritated at nis father, threw out an insinuation that I had been talking to Elder Kimball against his wife, which is as false as hell. He call’d no names but said, “It is one that we have been supporting all the while & one in the family.” Is such the grateful return which I am to receive for sharing the disgrace, & for all my exertions in upholding the reputation of this unfortunate family? They are & have been as kind to me as their circumstances would admit; but the Lord knows I have done them more good than all the trouble I have made them, be it ever so much. I am reminded of the feelings of Job when he exclaimed, “Young men have risen up against me whose fathers I would have disdain’d to have set with the dogs of' my flock.” Yesterday the father & son separated, so that W[arren] is to have his living charg’d by weight & measure until he can provide his own. Wednesday, November 25. Yesterday br. M[arkham] topp’d the chimney as high as the roof & finished chinking the house, which prov’d very fortunate for our comfort, as the weather, which had been very comfortable & fine for this season of the year, became very cold and blustering towards night & is piercingly cold today, yet sunny & otherwise pleasant except the wind. I will here make honorable mention of Sis. Green, whose kindness to me from time to time since my sickness shall never be forgotten. May the blessing of the Lord rest upon her; yea, she and her family shall never want for friends to sympathize in trouble & to administer in time of need. Mother Chase, Sylvia, & Sis[ter] Green visited us we had an interesting time. Thursday, November 26. The atmosphere a little modified, Warren coming into the room, I could scarcely avoid fastening my eyes upon him since the time of his insulting me on Monday —he inquired why I look’d as tho I would look him thro'. Understanding the spirit which prompted him I thought wisdom to keep silence. He said it was an imposition for me to look at him so—& also he understood that I had accused him of accusing me of talking to Elder K[imball], &c. which he said was a lie as he call’d no names. Poor foolish young man, I wish he might be better cultivated. When he first was so impudent, his parents both sat silent, but this time his father reprov’d him. Loisa & Clarissa visit me with kindness. The day very fine. Sunday, Nov. 29. Yester[day] & today I have renewed tokens of sis. Leavitt’s kindnesses which have been many since her arrival. The Lord bless her & all others who have administer’d to me in sickness. Br. Benson arriv’d on Friday. Last eve br. M[arkham] ask’d me what I had written in my journal that W[arren] was scolding about so much. I gave him the journal to read after which he said it was truth. Br. M [ark- ham] said he did not think of W[arren] meaning me at the time. I told him I thought strange that he was silent— that I never was so abus'd in my life— had always treated W[arren] as a br[other] & what he said was without the least provocation—that I always held myself above such insolence, & should never condescend to contradict it—that whoever insulted me, was planting thorns for their future path. After making the before mentioned insertion, I let sis. M[arkham] read it, after which she said, "Do you think you have been disgrac’d by living in the family? I should not think the Lord would require you to live where you would disgrace yourself. If W[arren] has insinuated anything that you are not guilty of, I think he will make it right if you should make him know it." I saw she had a wrong spirit & made no reply to whatever she said—and indeed I have not polluted my lips with the silly subject except what I said to br. M[arkham] last eve. Wednesday, December 9. Last night the Omahaw Indian Chief, who had been living in a tent in our City for a week or two, was in bed when some Indians came up—fired 5 or 6 guns, shot the Chief twice in the head—shot off one of his thumbs and shot three other Indians, one of whom, a squaw, has an arm amputated today. Thursday, December 10. The ground has not been covered with snow. On the 4th or 5th a very little hail was perceptible & a few flaxes of snow have fallen from time to time since, but scarcely to be notic'd. Monday, December 14. The day warm & sunny and the thin sheet of snow which fell in the night for the first time to cover the ground is melted wherever the sun shines. A com[pany] goes up the river to look out a location for the Indians of the Omahaw tribe who have become quite an annoyance. Last Thurs. this ward held its first meeting, which is to be attended weekly, an order being establish'd for each man to give every tenth day a half cord of wood for the benefit of the poor & widows, the town having been divided into wards for that purpose.[2] Yester[day] Catherine] gave birth to a daughter. Sis. Leavitt inform’d me of the death of Eliza P.’s child. O Lord, comfort the heart of the mother in this sudden bereavement. It died on the 12th inst. The Omahaw interpreter who had gone up to the hunting ground on an express to ascertain the truth of a report concerning the massacre of several of that tribe by the Sioux, return’d with the report that he counted 73 dead bodies. Wednesday, and Thursday, December 16 and 17. Last eve. after getting asleep in bed, I was awaken’d by an unpleasant conversation (if it might be so call’d) between br. M[arkham] & wife which was preceded by one of the same nature last Sat. morning. Before they ended, he propos’d "burying the hatchet & being better natur’a to each other”—said she might live with him or not, only so as to be more pleasant. Sunday, December 20. The weather very fine. Yest[erday] I walk’d with Sis. Leavitt to Bish [op] Whitney’s which is the 3rd time I nave walk’d out. Luke Johnson & br. Pierce call’d on me yest[erday] mor[ning]. Tuesday, December 22. Br. M[arkham] & Whiting start for Missouri. Heard of the death of my Mother, in which I feel a sweet consolation, inasmuch as she is freed from the ills of the present life—having liv’d to a good old age, & been useful all her days. She sleeps in peace & her grave & father’s, who died a year ago the 18th of last Oct., are side by side. They are gone—they are gone to a kingdom of rest-- They are gone—they are gone to the home of the blest Far away from the ills of this lower abode-- They have gone to reside in a mansion of God. They are gone—they are gone to a residence where Noble spirits rejoice in their presence to share, Who, thro’ all their long absence desir'd them to come. And with shouts of hosanna they welcom’d them home. They are gone—they are gone back again to pursue And accomplish the work there appointed to do; Crown’d with blessings & honor they yet will return And rejoice with the friends they have left here to mourn. Thursday, December 24. The day delightful—Sis. Green sent for me— spent the evening very interestingly with Sis. Chase, Sessions & Markham. Friday, December 25. Spent the afternoon at br. Woolley’s with the same com[pany] as yesterday. Sunday, December 27. Yest[erday] spent at Sis. Sessions’—came to Pres. Y[oung]’s in the eve—enjoy’d this eve the pleasure of supping on a bak’d turkey in com[pany] with B[righam] Young, J[ohn] Young, br. [Ezra T.] Benson, [father] & m[other] Chase &c. &c.—after having a chill of the ague in the forenoon. Wednesday, December 30. Yestferday] had another chill—spent this afternoon very agreeably at br. Pierce’s, in com[pany] with Prest. B[righam] Y[oung] & lady, & Loisa. Br. P[ierce] conducted L[oisa] & myself home very politely at the end of the year, 1846. AT WINTER QUARTERS—1847 Friday, January 1, 1847. This morning take leave of the female family & visit sis. Sessions with Loisa & Zina [D. H. Young] very pleasantly. Last eve we had a very interesting time to close my five day visit with the girls, for whom my love seem’d to increase with every day’s acquaintance. To describe the scene alluded to would be beyond my pow’r—suffice it to say, the spirit of the Lord was pour’d out and we receiv’d a blessing thro’ our belov’d Mother Chase, & sis. Clarissa by the gift of tongues. Saturday, January 2. Stop’d overnight with sis. Green, visited in the forepart of the day at H[eber] C. Kimball’s, much to my satisfaction & spent the eve at br. Winchester’s with sis. Sessions & Loisa [Decker]. Monday, January 4. Yes[terday] return’d to br. M[arkham]'s—spent this day at br. Smoot's with sis. [Phoebe] Woodruff and Markham— snow’d last night to cover the ground— the weather today will pass for winter. Friday, January 8. Yes[terday] went to the Store for a dress pattern which I have in exchange for one which br. Woolley dispos’d of for me, which was a present from br. Yearsley—call'd into bishop Newell K. Whitney’s—he came in after the close of his day's business & he, sis. W[hitney] & myself had a very interesting conversation, at least it was so to me. Spent the afternoon of this day at br. Pack’s, in com[pany] with sis. Whitney & sis. Markham (to be continued) [1] While Eliza R. Snow was there, during the winter of 1846-47. about 4,000 Latter-day Saints were sojourning at Winter Quarters. They had built about 600 log houses. 85 made of sod, and others were dugouts in hillsides; some even lived in wagons. Helen Mar Whitney wrote: "I never knew Sister Eliza intimately until we arrived at Winter Quarters. There I made her acquaintance under peculiar and trying circumstances. She was lying sick with a fever in a poorly covered wagon, with the blazing sun beating down upon it. Many more were in a similar condition and had no other shelter, until after the heavy rains were on us and the nights had become cold and frosty, but in the midst of these trials, with trusting faith in the Almighty, the Saints were sustained and comforted. His power was made manifest many times to our perfect astonishment. Before leaving Winter Quarters Eliza was able to go around and administer to her sisters in affliction; she comforted those who stood in need. Her words dropped like refreshing dews from the heavens, like manna, when most needed, reviving and giving new hope to the weary and hungry soul." [2] At winter quarters our extensive encampment was divided into wards, and so organized that meetings for worship were attended in the several wards. A general order was established and cheerfully carried out, that each able-bodied man should either give the labor of each tenth day. or contribute an equivalent, for the support of the destitute, and to aid those families whose men were in the battalion, [Mormon Battalion] and those who were widows indeed. Our exposures and privations caused much sickness. and sickness increased destitution; but in the midst of all this, we enjoyed a great portion of the spirit of God. and many seasons of refreshing from His presence, with rich manifestations of the gifts and power of the gospel. My life, as well as the lives of many others, was preserved by the power of God, through faith in Him, and not on natural principles as comprehended by man. Eliza R. Snow, quoted in Women of Mormondom, (Tullidge), pp. 317, 318. |
COTTONWOOD TREE SAID TO HAVE BEEN PLANTED BY BRIGHAM YOUNG WHILE AT WINTER QUARTERS—NOW
FLORENCE, NEBRASKA. MISSOURI RIVER CROSSING
The first of the Pioneers arrived at the Missouri River on June 14. A week later President Brigham Young ordered the building of a large ferry boat, the planks for which came from an Indian saw mill; twenty-one men were required to launch it. Only three wagons could be taken across at a time. The process was so slow that many preferred to risk the dangers of fording. Col. Thomas L. Kane describes the scene: "The flat-bottomed scow plied, crowded with wagons, cows, sheep and children and furniture of the emigrants. No less than 30,000 cattle were on the way. They had to swim the mile and a half wide river, its fierce current rushing, gurgling and eddying. As they were forced into the water and about to be carried down stream by the swift current, a fearless youngster, climbing upon some brave bull in the front rank, urged him boldly forth into the stream; the rest followed until they landed on the opposite shore. I have seen youths, in stepping from hack to back of the struggling monsters, or swimming in among their battling hoofs, display feats of great bravery; yet I never heard an oath or the language of quarrel." |
"Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow." Improvement Era. August 1943. pg. 466-467, 506-507, 509.
Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow PART VI At Winter Quarters-1847 Saturday, January 9. Loisa [Decker] had a fine son born yes[terday]. Monday, January 11. The weather which has been extremely cold for several days, is more moderate. Lines on the Death of Three Small Children of W[ilford] & P[hoebe] Woodruff Written by her request Mourn not for them, their bodies rest So sweetly in the ground -- And they'll awake to life again At the first trumpet's sound. [five verses follow] Friday, January 15. The day cold & blustering—went to Prest. Y[oung]'s, heard Loisa's babe blest—stay a a week, as I was told to do—visited at father Mayland's & made a dress cap for mother Sessions in the time. Saturday, January 23. Yes[terday], in returning home I called at bish. [Newell K.] W[hitney]'s—found her [Sister Whitney] quite ill—spent the evening very interestingly. Tuesday, January 26. In com[pany] with sis. Leavitt & sis. Markham, spent a pleasant eve at father Chase's. About this time I wrote the following: To all the ladies who reside in the 2d mansion of Prest. B[righam] Young [His first "Mansion" was in Nauvoo]: In Sacred Union Beloved sisters, all unite In music's sweetest strains -- 'Twill prove a fountain of delight While love with you remains. [seven verses follow] Tuesday, February 2. Went to father Lott's from sis. Leavitt's, where I had spent several days, it being the first time I had visited her in this place. Wednesday, February 3. Br. Markham call'd at f[ather] Lott's & told me that Mrs. Young call'd at his house the previous eve, requesting me to be notified to come there this morn to attend a family party. Br. Stephen M[arkham] had arriv'd from Mo. last sat., having been absent more than six weeks. Thursday, February 4. Slept with Loisa [Decker] last night having return'd with her from the party last night. The party was an interesting one—five of the or [other] s Young being present & one sis. Probably 100 persons were present in all & we supp'd at a table that would have done honor to a better cultivated country. The exercises open'd with singing & prayer & after feasting & dancing, clos'd with an address by Prest. Young which succeeded one by father [Heber C] Kimball. This eve Vilate Y[oung] & C. Decker were married without noise or bustle—nobody being invited—I address'd the following lines to the young wedded pair: Please accept my warmest wishes For your good, ye youthful pair; That the richest, choicest blessings Heav'n may grant your lot to share. [three verses follow] Friday, February 5. Thro' the politeness of father Sessions, I attended a very crowded & interesting party, at the Council House, styled the silver greys. Sunday, February 7. Yes[terday], with Clarissa & Loisa visited at br. Pierce's—today attended meeting all day—the weather is fine. Tuesday, February 9. Attended a blessing meeting at father [Heber C] Kimball's on the occasion of his son, Solomon, being eight days old. W[hiring] & br. M[arkham] started for Mo. [Missouri]. Saturday, February 13. Went to bish. [Newell K.] W[hitney's] to put a cap in rigg [outfit, dress] for her [Sister Whitney] preparatory for tomorrow, which will be the 8th day in the age of her little son, but I was sick all day with chills & fever. Wednesday, February 17. Invited to sis. Sabra's to celebrate her birthday; but was sick & could not attend. Friday, February 19. Snowstorm commenc'd. Sunday, February 21. Very tedious —snow last night drifted in hills several feet in height. The water is plentifully dripping thro' the tent cloth which lines our clapboard roof. Tuesday, February 23. Commenc'd writing to sis. Kimball, Wm. Cutler & others about starting for Nauvoo. The Church is organizing for journeying in the Spring. Some days ago a party of the Sioux Indians stole a number of horses & cattle from our herdsmen up the river. Friday, February 26. Cold & stormy —my health better than it has been for 2 weeks past. Saturday, February 27. Sis. Hyde spent the afternoon with us. Sent a letter to S[arah] M. K[imball] by W[m]. Cutler. Monday, March 1. The day fine — the snow thaws some with the sun altho' the wind is quite chilly—spent the afternoon with Miss S. Maylan at O. & M's. Wednesday, March 3. Sis[ter] M. & myself visited at br. Gleason's. It thaw'd so much that the water broke into the house like a torrent & we retreated to sis. Walker's till eve, when we return 'd to a cheerful fire—a hay carpeting on the floor—good company, &c, &c. The frost stiffen'd the mud & snow & we came home "dry shod" at late bed time. Thursday, March 4. Heard that the cattle which are herded up the river are dying in consequence of the rushes being buried with snow which lies on a level at the depth of 18 inches. The word is that the Pioneers are to start for the western location on the 18 of this month. Acrostic for Anna Green M—ay the spirit of contentment, I—n your bosom ever dwell: S—uch as in the hour of trial S—weetly whispers, "all is well." A—s the blooming rose of summer N—e'er with-draws its fragrant breath, N—ever may your love & friendship A—nd your kindness cease till death. Gr—eatness, goodness, light & wisdom E—ndless happiness and peace, E—vermore adorn your pathway -- N—ever shall your blessings cease. Lines for the Album of Mrs. Margaret Whiteside Beauteous as the op'ning rosebud, 'Neath its shady leafy stem -- Pure as summer morning dew-drops -- Brilliant as the sparkling gem. [three verses follow] Sunday, March 7. Yester. the weather chang'd & the ground & water this morning are quite clos'd up—the river safe crossing for teams, which has not been the case for 2 days past. Lines for Mother Chase, Also for Mother Sessions Truth and holiness and love, Wisdom, honor, joy and peace -- That which cometh from above, In your pathway shall increase. [seven verses follow] Monday, March 8. Very cold freezes in the house. Lines for Mrs. Woolley's Album Lady were it mine to bless you With the purest, sweetest joys Nought on earth should dispossess you, Of one gift that never cloys. [seven verses follow] Tuesday, March 9. Weather a little moderated—br. M[arkham] return'd from Mo. last eve[ning]. Friday, March 12. Yest. & today quite pleasant. Br. L[uke] Johnson call'd. Sunday, March 14. Spent last eve in a very interesting manner at sis. Green's, in com[pany] with mother Chase & [Pattie] Sessions. Father [Heber C] Kim[ball] call'd in & gave us much beautiful instruction, after which we had some glorious communications of the Spirit of God, both by way of prophecy & the gift of tongues, and our hearts were made to rejoice & praise the name of God. This day I had the privilege of attending father K[imball]'s meeting at br. Wallace's—very interesting indeed; went home with moth[er] Sessions to spend the night. Br. H. Loveland came in to sit awhile & related a curious circumstance of a cake which was baked a short time since in the circle of his friends, which was written on while in the process of baking, and closely confined under a lid or cover. Tuesday, March 16. Went to Loisa's —sis[ter] Mary Pierce died this afternoon. Wednesday, March 17. Attended the funeral. Prest. Y[oung] preach'd. To Br[other] Robert Pierce & Family on the Death of Mary Mary's gone—she's gone; but whither? To the paradise of love, Gone to mingle in the circle Of our friends who dwell above. [six verses follow] Thursday, March 18. In the mor[ning] call'd into br. P[ierce]'s and transcribed the following which I had written some weeks ago by the request of Prest. Y[oung]: A Journeying Song for the Camp of Israel. Dedicated to President Young & Lady. The time of winter now is o'er -- There's verdure on the plain, We leave our sheltering roofs once more And to our tents again. CHORUS Thou Camp of Israel, onward move -- O Jacob, rise and sing-- Ye saints, the world's salvation prove, All hail to Zion's king. [twelve verses follow] Thursday, March 1 8. Spent the afternoon at br. Noble's—Sis. Ashby accompanied me back with Loisa. My health very ill. While on this visit, in conversation with Prest. Y[oung], he said to me that Br. Markham told him that he could take me on to the west, as well as not; which Prest. Y[oung] said would be a great accommodation to him, as he was short on it for wagons. The present calculation is for the families of the Twelve & all others that are able, to go over the Mts. this season. Friday, March 19. Start for home call 'd at [father] Sessions, from whence he accompanied me to B[ishop Newel K.] Whitney's. Saturday, March 20. Went from Olive's to br[other Stephen] M[arkham] 's—quite sick. Monday, April 5. Been very sick with inflammation on the lungs, I am just able to write a little & help myself, &c.— New arrangements have been entered into respecting the emigration — The families of the Twelve to remain till another season. The Pioneers without families are to go on, some have already started. Others go out today. Wrote the following to Br. Luke Johnson on the death of his companion, Mrs. Susan M. J[ohnson]: Round the grave there are no shadows -- Tis no more a dread to die; Death is but a friendly portal Op'ning to the worlds on high. [six verses follow] Tuesday, April 6. Conference in the forenoon adjourn'd sine die, after some business matters wherein the present Authorities were voted to be sustained except L[yman] Wight, who was pass'd over for the time being; & bish[op] Miller, of whom nothing was said. The pioneers, some of them, leave in the afternoon—others not ready. Thursday, April 8. Br. Markham started out yest[erday], return'd today to spend the night with his family. Friday, April 9. P[arley] P. P[ratt] arriv'd from Eng[land]; elders [Orson] Hyde & [John] Taylor expected soon.—I have been sick 3 weeks & to- day not able to leave my bed.—Sis. Swan brought me a fine mess of wild onions. The weather, which was cold in the forepart of the week, is now fine.—Cattle have been brows'd for several days, in marshy places; the grass affords them a fresh bite. Saturday, April 10. The Twelve "A Journeying Song for the Pioneers to the Mountains." Dedicated to Pres. B. Young. They have gone—they have gone new privations to share; Gone as Abraham went when he knew not where. They have gone like the deer when pursued in the chase To secure for the saints a safe hiding place. [four verses follow] Monday, April 12. Prest. Y[oung] & elder [Heber C] K[imball] return'd From the Camp of Pioneers. Tuesday, April 13. Mrs. Leonard & Sessions spent a few hours with us. To Mrs. E[dwin] A. W[oolley] Great & glorious was thy station Greater still it is to be; When thy right and exaltation Come thro' Jesus Christ to thee, [three verses follow] Elder [John] Taylor arriv'd this afternoon. Wednesday, April 14. Prest. Y[oung] call'd to bid "Good bye" & started out to rejoin the Pioneers. Thursday, April 15. Br. [Jesse C] Little from Mass. arriv'd. Saturday, April 17. Froze very hard last night. Monday, April 19. The atmosphere chang'd to the soft fanning breeze of Spring. My strength returning, so that by stopping twice to rest, I went to Bishop W[hitney]'s. Spent the day with Sis. Whitney, Kim [ball], Helen, Sarah, Sabra, &c, 6c. The Pioneers having cross'd the Horn [Elk Horn River] ( a tributary of the Platte ) went on Friday mor[ning], the 12 & others having return'd from their visit at the "City." Difficulties with the Omahaws, they continuing to kill our cattle & molest the men—having stripp'd & badly injur'd a man & woman at the upper herd. Our breth[ren] are seeking some measures to prevent further trouble. Thursday, April 22. Was at Sister Buel's—had a very interesting time in the eve. Present: Sis. Leonard, Zina [D. H. Young], Sis. Markham. Sis. Sessions] and Lyons call'd in the afternoon—brought me a present from S[arah] M. K[imball] of dress pins, stockings, hooks & eyes & sewing silk. O God, bless her for this, I pray thee. Friday, April 23. Went to Br. Leonard's. In the eve had a glorious time — father Sessions] presided, present: Moth[er] Chase, Sess[ions], Lyons, Leonard, Buel and Sabra. To L[yman] O. Littlefield on His Departure for Europe Go brother, go forth in the spirit of Jesus, Enrob'd with salvation, encircled with pow'r. Go forth as a herald and publish glad tidings Go call to the nations—go tell them the hour. [seven verses follow] To the Saints in Europe Ye saints who dwell on Europe's shore Let not your hearts be faint -- Let each press on to things before And be indeed a saint. [seven verses follow] Lines on the Death of the Children of Elder Franklin D. & Mrs. Jane Richards (Written for the press in England) They sweetly sleep—''tis their dust that is sleeping, Their spirits move in the courts above; [fourteen lines follow] Monday April 26. Left Sis. Buel's — call'd & din'd at f[ather] Sessions' with David. Went to the Marker—spent the afternoon at br. Pierce's in com[pany] with Sis. Whitney, Kimball, Sessions, Lyons, Lucina, Pierce & Margaret. Also Sis. Young came in at sup- per time. Spent the eve at the Marker. Had a rejoicing time thro' the outpouring of the spirit of God. Present: Sis. W[hitney], K[imball], Young, Chase, Ses[sions], Lyon, Pierce, Mar[garet], Aunt Jemina & "the Girls." All hearts comforted. On the Death of Leonore Agnes Taylor Like a rose-bud fast unfolding To the view superior charms Leonore's form was moulding Beauteous, in her mother's arms. [twenty-four lines follow] Friday, April 30. Night before last slept with Sis. Lyon, last night with Sister Green. Saturday, May 1 This afternoon had a most glorious time at br[other] Leonard's. Sis. Sessions presided—present: Moth[er] Chase, Cutler, Cahoon, Sis[ters] Whit[ney], Kim [ball], Katherine, Lyon, Buel, Knight, &c-—spoken by the spirit of prophecy that the Pioneers were well, happy & were in council — that tomorrow they will have a greater time of rejoicing than they have ever had. Sunday, May 2. This eve supp'd at sis. Noon's with sis. Kim[ball], Whit[ney] , Ses[sions] , Lyon, Sarah A[nn] , Helen, &c. Had as glorious a time as I ever had on earth at Sis. K[imball]'s— myself chosen to preside—the pow'rs of the world to come were truly in our midst. To Mrs. Lyon Go thou lov'd one—God is with you He will be your stay & shield; Treasure up each precious promise Which His spirit has reveal'd. [twenty-eight lines follow] (End of Vol. I) (To be continued) |
ELIZA SNOW'S JOURNALS
Here are shown the small leather-covered notebooks in which Eliza R. Snow recorded her pioneer diary. The first volume, seen right, measuring 3 1/2 by 5 1/4 inches, contains eighty pages, its first entry dated February 12, 1846, its last, May 2, 1847--the date reached in the present instalment. The somewhat smaller second volume, seen left, measuring 2 1/2 by 4 inches, contains seventy-nine pages; it carries the account from June 1, 1847, to August 8, 1849. The pages are yellowing with age, but the neat, compact hand is still clearly legible, although LeRoi C. Snow, nephew of Eliza R. Snow, and custodian of the priceless Journals, states that the writing is so very small in places a reading glass is needed to make it out. MILL AT WINTER QUARTERS
Built by the Mormons in 1846, the mill is still housed in the same building, although the tower has since been added and the machinery modernized. OLDEST BANK
Said to be the oldest bank west of the Mississippi, the Bank of Florence (Nebraska) was built and operated during the Mormon exodus. The bank is still doing business. |
"Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow." Improvement Era. September 1943. pg. 533, 571, 573.
Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow PART VII Volume 2 Winter Quarters—1847 Tuesday June 1. This is truly a glorious time with the mothers & daughters in Zion, altho' thrust out from the land of our forefathers & from endearments of civiliz'd life. This forenoon I made a cap for sis. Peirce[1]; in the afternoon visited at sis. Miller's, in com[pany] of Priscinda, Zina, sis. Chase, Cristene &c. After supper sis. Whitney, Kimball [and] Sessions came in and we had a spiritual feast in very deed. Spent the eve. at br. Leonard's with Priscinda, Zina & Sarah-—great instruction was brought forth. . . . Wednesday, June 2. Spent the after a[oon] with Lucy in com[pany] of Zina, Loisa & Emily. E[mily] & myself spoke in the gift of tongues. In the eve. met at Harriet's; had a good time—Sis Young join'd me in a song of Zion. Thursday, June 3. Sis. Sess[ions]. Kim [ball], Whit[ney], & myself spent the eve at Sarah Ann's [Kimball's] — had a pow'rful time—deep things were brought forth which were not to be spoken. Friday, June 4. We had a very pleasant visit at br. Leonard's. Present br. Joseph Y[oung] & wife, br. Ses[sions] & wife, sis. Whitney, Kimball. &c. I blest sis. Young. Saturday, June 5. Fathfer] Sessions] leaves for the wilderness. I attended meeting at sis. Leavitt's. Sunday, June 6. Had a glorious time at sis. Young's. Present: sis. Whit[ney], Kim [ball], Chase, &c. I had forgotten to mention a time of blessing at sis. K[imball] 's the day after we met at Sarah's. Sis. Sess[ions] & myself blest Helen [Mar Whitney]. I spoke & she interpreted. I then blest the girls in a song, singing to each in rotation. In the eve that we met at Harriet's, sis. Young told me she thought [it] wisdom for me to go to the west, inasmuch as I could go so comfortably with br. Peirce. Sis. P[eirce] had mention'd her wish for me to go with them, in his absence, but he had not yet decided whether his means would permit. Monday, June 7. Met at sis. Woodruff's in the afternoon—at br. Leonard's in the eve. Moth[er] Butler receiv'd the gift of tongues. Sis. Scovil present. Tuesday, June 8. Met at Lyman Whitney's, stay'd in the eve, had a heavy shower of rain—went home with Loisa & Z[ina] in the mud rejoicing. Wednesday, June 9. Visited with Zina, Martha, L[oisa], E[mily], Lucy, Eliza, & Sarah. After supper we had a glorious time. Sis. Peirce came in—sis. Thompson, M. Jones & Francis. Before we retir'd to rest, Margaret, Martha, Loisa, Susan & Lucy receiv'd the gift of tongues. Thursday, June 10. In the mor[ning] met sis. Chase at Clarissa's—-blest her little daughter which was born last Tu[esday]. Told Harriet she would get the gift of interpretation in the eve. In the aft[ernoo]n call'd at sis. Woodru[ff's] & Priscinda's & went to br. Moore's where sis. Whit[ney]'s girls met, sent for Zina. Harriet came with her. Sis. Richards, Rhoda, Emeline, Anna, & one of sis. M[arkham]'s daughters spoke in the gift for the first time. Took supper with S[arah] Ann [Kimball] . While there Lucy W. came in—she receiv'd the gift. We then—went into sis. K[imball] 's—Helen, Sarah Ann, Genet, Harriet S., sis. K[imball] spoke for the first time in the gift of tongues—H. Cook interpreted. Friday June 11. Sent for Harriet we commenc'd improving in the gifts Helen got the interpretation, also sis. W. Mary Ellen spoke in a new tongue, sis. Pack also—we had a time not to be forgotten. In the aft. met at Clarissa's—sis. Snow receiv'd the gift before we left Loisa's. We had a glorious time—Sis. Leavitt & M[argaret] Peirce spoke in the gift & I could truly say that my heart was fill'd to overflowing with gratitude to my Father in heaven. Departure from Winter Quarters The time of winter now is o'er, There's verdure on the plain; We leave our sheltering roofs once more And to our tents again. Saturday, June 12.[2] Bade farewell to many who seemed dearer to me than life &, seated in the carriage with sis. Pfeirce], M[argaret] & E[li],[3] I took my departure from Winter Quarters. It commenc'd raining soon after our start—one of br. P[eirce's] drivers had the misfortune to break his wagon tongue which was soon repair'd—we travel'd 7 m[ile]s, the weather became fine & we encamp'd at night having 14 wagons in com[pany]. I felt a loneliness for a while after parting with my friends, but the spirit of consolation & rejoicing return'd & I journey'd with good cheer. Sunday, June 13. The day fine—we met Parley returning to town—arriv'd—at the [Elk] Horn [River] just before sunset—my feelings were very peculiar thro' the day—it verily seem'd that the glory of God rested down on the wagons (21 in number) and overspread the prairie. Monday, June 14. Cross'd the river, the Elk Horn, which is a muddy, swift- running stream, on a raft in the after- noon—before which sis. Smith, Thompson], & Sess[ions] came to our carriage—we had an interesting time sis. P[eirce] & sis. T[hompson] spoke in the gift of tongues & many interesting things were said. After crossing I went to sis. Sessions' tent, spoke to Lucia & Mary about their relationship, &c & was made to rejoice in hearing them speak in the gift of tongues. Tuesday June 15. The brethren call a meeting around a Liberty pole[4] which was erected yesterday, for the purpose of organizing the camp[5] —judg'd to be more than 300 wagons[6] cross'd over at noon this day—this afternoon several of the sis. met in a little circle on the prairie in front of our wagons. Br. Peirce met with us—Fath[er] Smith staid until sent for on business—we had a good time, altho' the prairie wind was somewhat annoying. Sis. Sess[ions], Chase 6 E[?] present. Receiv'd a letter from S[arah] M. Kimball. Wednesday, June 16. When I left Winter Quarters, Sis. Young wish'd me to write a few lines to her. In compliance with her request I wrote the following To Mrs. Mary Ann Young Mother of mothers! Queen of queens, For such thou truly art I pray the Lord to strengthen thee And to console thy heart. [7 verses follow] This day met Mary Ellen, Mary A. & sis. Smithies at fath[er] Sess[ions]: had an interesting interview —sis. Smithies spoke in a new tongue—Mary Ellen interpreted. Sis. Sessions] & I took a walk, call'd at P[arley] P. P[ratt]'s—had a conversation with him —I sang a song of Zion to his family. Sis. Sess[ions] interpreted. Thursday, June 17. Call'd in the morning at sis. Thompson's tent—sis. Smith present—sent for sis. Sess[ions]. br. Lawson spoke in tongues. After sis. Sess[ions] & I left, he sang a song & interpreted. Sis. T[hompson] also sang & br. L[awson] interpreted. ... I went home with sis. S[essions] —wrote in her little book to sis. Pratt. Friday, June 18. Had a treat of a spirit in the wagon. Sis. Moore & sis. Sessions] p[rese]nt. In the aft. at- tended meeting at sis. Beaches'—most of br. Pratt's fam[ily] pr[esen]t—had a refreshing time. Sis. Sessions] & I went to br. Hunt- er's, found sis. H[unter] out of health —told them I had long desir'd to bless sis. H[unter] —went into the wagon I spoke to br. H[unter] in the gift of tongues, sis. S[essions] interpreted, after which br. H[unter], sis. Sessions & I laid hands on sis. H[unter]'s head & rebuk'd her illness & blessed her. I then sang a song to them & sis. Sessions] sang the interpretation. Susanna present & arose & bless'd sis. H[unter]. This day br. Spencer's hundred leave & move forward. Saturday, June 19. Our division under J[edediah M.] Grant leave the Horn—we soon come in sight of the com[pany] that started yes[terday] Near the place of their last night's encampment they found the carcass of a man recently kill'd, and picked by the wolves—many papers were found which designated him to have been an Officer from St. Louis.—We encamp'd on the Platte River—about 15 m[ile]s from where we cross'd the [Elk] Horn. The pole of Liberty with the white flag waving was erected by the com[pany] that preceded us—we saw it several miles distant. Sunday, June 20. This mor. heard the painful news of a combat between Jacob Weatherbie & another br. & three Indians. Br. W[eatherbie] was shot by one of the Indians thro' the body, while endeavoring to prevent them robbing his wagon. Those 2 brethren had been sent back to Winter Quarters on business, & were at the time of the encounter about 7 ½ ms. on the other side the [Elk] Horn. My health ill today, not able to attend the general meeting, but sis. Chase, Sessions, &c, met with us at br. Peirce's wagons, & we had a rejoicing time. Our manner of encampment which we commenced last night is by joining the wagons in a circle, so as to form a yard for the herd; each hundred by itself. Monday, June 21. The artillery does not arrive—we do not journey. Br. Weatherbie died yest[erday]. (To be continued) [1] Sometimes spelled Pierce [2] President Brigham Young's advance company of pioneers was now beyond Ft. Laramie. In it were 73 wagons, 143 men, 3 women and 2 children. Presi- dent Young left Winter Quarters April 14 and arrived in the Salt Lake Valley July 24. [3] Margaret Peirce Whiteside, 24 years of age, later Aunt Margaret Young (wife of President Young). Eli Harvey Peirce, age 20. [4] The brethren erected a Liberty Pole on the west bank of the Elk Horn River and hoisted a white flag on its top, as a signal of peace to all nations, and also to designate a place for public gathering. About 300 wagons had collected. The brethren commenced to organize the Saints into Hundreds, Fifties and Tens. A messenger was sent back to Winter Quarters to hurry on those who still tarried behind who wished to join the emigrating companies.—Journal History. This, I believe, was the first Liberty Pole ever erected by the Latter-day Saints. Several Liberty Poles were later erected in the Salt Lake Valley. This day, June 14, incidentally, is now our national Flag Day.—LeRoi C. Snow [5] The organization into "Hundreds, Fifties, and Tens" needs explanation to be correctly understood. It was a count neither of the number of wagons nor of families, nor of the total number of individuals, but rather of the able-bodied men, those who were able to carry arms, handle teams and cattle, act as guards, and perform other service in protecting and providing for the aged and infirm, the women and children. Therefore there were as many as forty to fifty individuals in some of the companies of "ten," and the twelve to sixteen hundred people making the present journey were organized into four "Hundreds" as follows: First 100, Daniel Spencer, captain: first 50, Peregrine Sessions, captain; second 50, Ira Eldredge. captain. Second 100, Edward Hunter, captain; first 50, Joseph Horne, captain; second 50, Jacob Foutz, captain. Third 100, Jedediah M. Grant, captain; first 50, Joseph B. Noble, captain; second 10, Robert Peirce, captain. Eliza R. Snow traveled in the third hundred, the first fifty of that hundred, the second ten of that fifty, which group comprised thirty-five individuals. There were seven persons in the Peirce family, with whom Eliza traveled. [6] Describing an earlier, similar scene— the move from Mount Pisgah to Winter Quarters— Wilford Woodruff wrote: "I stopped my carriage on the top of a hill in the midst of a rolling prairie where I had an extended view all about me. I beheld the Saints coming in all directions from hills and dales, groves and prairies with their wagons, flocks, and herds, by the thousands. It looked like the movements of a nation. |
A "DUGOUT" AT WINTER QUARTERS
Many such shelters were the temporary homes of Mormon pioneer families during the winter of '46-'47 and '47-'48. MAP OF PIONEER JOURNEY
The dates on the map are those on which President Brigham Young and his advance company arrived at these points. |
"Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow." Improvement Era. October 1943. pg. 598-599, 626.
Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow PART VIII 1847 Tuesday, June 22. The Camp mov'd, traveling 5 & 6 abreast—we follow up the Platte—6 at night encamp near it, having travel'd perhaps 14 or 15 ms. The road & the country delightful. Wednesday, June 23. We go 2 abreast. Capt. Smoot's com. stops for the night by a small stream, a mile or so in our rear, we at a. m. in John Taylor's rear & Parley P. Pratt 5 ms. in advance of us. Our place is very delightful—a short grass which is a sweet treat for the herd, overspreads an extensive plain, the river forming almost a half circle, while rich clusters of trees are to be seen in every direction. Thursday, June 24. Capt. [Jedediah M.] Grant's com. start at 7. Pass'd J[ohn] T[aylor]'s com. who rode past us on horseback & order'd J[edediah M.] Grant to stop. Prest. J[ohn Young told him to drive on—J[ohn T[aylor] came back & told our captains of tens to stop, for their leaders were in rebellion—he soon passed us again on his way to Parley's camp. We travel'd 10 ms. stop'd at half past one in the rear of P[arley's]. A meeting in the eve matters adjusted with good feeling.[1] Friday, June 25. Meeting in the mor. travel'd twelve ms. in 2 files as yesterday—the wind & dust almost intolerable. Saturday, June 26. Traveled upwards of 20 ms., 2 abreast, cross the Looking-Glass creek — encamp on Beaver—one com[pany] cross over rains at night. Sunday, June 27. I have been very sick, rode on bed the last 2 days—sis. Sess[ions], Lucina & sis. Leonard came to the wagon—the pow'r of God rested on me—my disease was rebuk'd, & I praised the name of the Most High. The wagons are crossing the stream thro' the day—In the eve br. Lawson, sis. T[aylor] &c came to our place & we had another refreshing from the Lord—Praise Him, all ye Saints. Monday, June 28. Our time delay'd in crossing the Creek—rumor'd that a war party of Ind[ians] are gather'd broke 2 wagon-tongues in our Ten. Cross'd Indian Creek—passed 2 cornfields, some habitations & overtake J[ohn] T[aylor's] division late in the eve—some of the inhabitants visit us,—one man who is appointed to aid the Ind[ians] in building barracks, &c. Trav[eled] about 7 ms. Tuesday, June 29, Pass'd the Pawnee town, which seem'd entirely deserted the scenery is much more variegated than before—it is now quite rolling cross'd a sandy bottom'd stream in sight of the Indian settlement—travel'd 16 ms., encamp'd in front of several wigwams. J[ohn] T[aylor] before us & P[arley P. Pratt] behind. Wednesday, June 30. The day cool —Capt. P[arley P. Pratt's] ten take the lead of J[edediah M.] G[rant]'s h[undre]d—soon after we start Parley's] & the other com[panies] come in sight—J[ohn] T[aylor] is moving on—in front—we are on an extensive prairie with little shrubbery & the camp can be view'd at once, which presents a very imposing sight—had the pleasure of seeing a herd of antelope running in every direction. Stop'd about one o'clock by the side of a stream & near its mouth. P[arley P. Pratt] rides forward—thinks best to cross the Platte. Sis. Chase, Peirce, Hendricks, &c. call into br. Noble's with me—sis. N [oble] receives the gift of tongues sis. Hunter call'd at the carriage—had a good time—she said she had been better since sis. Sess[ions] & I call'd on her. Trav. 8 ms. Thursday, July 1. We cross'd the Platte, or rather what is call'd Loup Fork; J[ohn] T[aylor]'s com. cross'd first, J[edediah M.] G[rant]'s follow'd & [Abraham] O. Smoot's & [Daniel] Spencer's, & when we left, Parley's [P. Pratt] was crossing. We went about 5 ms. & encamp'd without wood or water, with J[ohn] T[aylor] 3 ms. in our front. Br. P[ratt] is somewhat afflicted with sore eyes. Friday, July 2. Start'd forward, the prairie very rolling. We only ascend one ridge to come in sight of another, till about 2 o'clock, when a gradual descent gave us a view of the tops of trees, which skirt the river before us. The teams begin to fail for want of water—a very heavy show'r reviving them & turns our sandy road to mud, travel'd & abreast some of the time. Trav. 16 ms. Capt. Neff leads our Com. Saturday, July 3. The day fine, travel'd 14 m[iles], & encamp late on a stream in view of the Platte—cross'd a stream in the mor[ning]. In the aft[ernoon] go 4 abreast—come into the trail of the Pioneers.[2] Bro. Russel finds a bucket which he had given to H[eber] C. K[imball]. Sunday, July 4. Rains in forenoon meeting in the aft. Martha [Howd], Lo[u]isa [Levette], & Edith [Peirce] come to the wagon to me—L[ouisa] & —br. E[dith] receive the gift of tongues. Sis. Taylor, Hunter, Smoot call in the eve. Monday, July 5. Travel 12 ms. P[arley P. Pratt] takes the lead of the second Division. Miller leads in our hundred. We cross the stream in the morn each 50 making a fording place, & we enter upon Grand Island & where we encamp at night. A board is found on which the Pioneers had written, computing the distance 217 ms. from W[inter] Quarters. Tuesday, July 6. Our Com[pany] start at about 8 o'clock, after forming on the trail, stop until P[arley P. Pratt] passes—J[ohn] T[aylor we stop to water & bait in the rear feed] at noon—awhile after we move on, our fifty was stop'd, said to be thro' J[ohn] T[aylor]'s orders—br. Asahel A. Lathrop who leads today went to J[edediah M.] G[rant] to know what to do, as J[ohn] Tfaylor] demanded the roads, Jfedediah M.] G[rant] said he would as soon give the roads as not, if J[ohn] T[aylor]'s teams would give us room to go out, but as they were on our right & a slough on our left, it was not practicable—Perhaps 15 of [John] T[aylor]'s wagons had come alongside, the rest were in the rear—J[edediah M.] G[rant] told L[athrop] to go on & he went on himself with the other 50. J[ohn] T[aylor] came up & order'd us to stop—at length the 250 halted till we overtook them—in the meantime J[ohn] T[aylor] 's wagons crowd into our path—we all stop'd for his com[pany] to pass, except 5 wagons that waited till our Com. pass'd by them for the nearest point of timber, where we encamp on the bank of the Platte, with the timber all on the opposite side A. O. Smoot where we stop'd at noon & P[ratt] & Tfaylor] in sight several ms. in front. I breakfasted on antelope—quite a treat—trav. 15 ms. Wednesday, July 7. Capt. P[ratt] leads our 50. After starting we were told to leave the beaten tracks and each 50 break a new one—it made hard riding for me, yet I felt like submitting to "the pow'rs that be" & endure it, altho' the roads were unoccupied—after our nooning we came where br. Chas. C. Rich was guard & baiting [feeding], having broken 2 wagons—we pass'd them, but perhaps an hour after br. [Asahel A.] Lathrop came up, telling br. P[ratt] that Chas. C. Rich demanded the roads which we took after noon br. P[ratt] said the command had not come to him from proper authority, it being from [Jed. M.] Grant instead of [Capt. Jos. B.] Noble, the capt[ain] of our 50, and we went on—encamp'd a mile from the river, trav. 14 ms.—Sis. Wiler sent me a bush with tomatoes, also a flower resembling the Geranium —the prickly pear is common. Thursday, July 8. Started 10 m[inutes] after 8—cross'd a ravine—Br. P[ratt]'s & T[aylor]'s comfpanies] bend their course to the river, which is far to our left. We cross their roads & encamp near a slough. Show'r at night. Trav. 14 ms. Friday, July 9.[3] Capt. Miller broke a wagon crossing a ravine yest. & we do not start till nearly noon—the other h[undre]ds out of sight & encamp on the Platte. Had meeting in br. [James] Hendricks' wagon—2 of his daughters [Elizabeth and Katherine] & B[righam H.] Young's wife [Cedonia] speak with the gift of tongues for the first time. Praise the Lord, O my soul! Trav. 12 ms. The prairie presents a beautiful appearance, resembling the tame meadows where red-top is cultivated. Saturday, July 10. Soon after starting cross the tracks of Parley P. Pratt and John Taylor's comjpanies]. The whole camp encamp early on the Platte which is judg'd about a m file] in width —no timber on this side—this is a buffalo country. Trav[eled] 8 m[ile]s. Sunday, July 11. A public meeting at 1 o'clock. Sister Sessfions], Leon[ard], Thom[pson], Peirce & myself meet in Father C[hase|'s wagon at 4 o'clock. The Lord pour d out his spirit —Sis. Holmes call'd to see me in the eve & spoke in the gift of tongues. We are said to be 180 ms. from W[inter] Quarters. Supped on buffalo. 8 kill'd at this stop. Drank well water from B[ro]. C. C. Rich's camp. Monday, July 12. Started late in the mor[ning] in the rear of P. P. Pratt's 1st 50 & alongside of his 2nd, the Camp all in sight—the prairie today is little else than a barren waste where the buffalo seem to roam freely. Encamp at night on the side of a slope with the river a few rods beyond. Capt. Noble goes in front since Fr[iday] mor[ning] having got an addition to his team—had gone in the rear for some time in consequence of losing an ox, the night after crossing Loupe Fork—all goes well—Trav. 16 m[ile]s. Tuesday, July 13. Start between 7 & 8, nothing remarkable except the multitude of buffalo paths which lead from the bluff to the river across our way. Capt. [Robert] Pfeirce] leads our nooning is on a line of lakes or swamps which intercept watering at the river. Capt. N[oble] 's 50 are left in the rear at the watering & when we start are obliged to go to the right, which Capt. Gfrant] approbates [approves]. Capt. S. frets, &c. P[ratt] s 1st 50 in our front—his 2nd in our rear—we fall into his tracks which occasions some trouble but all is adjusted by Capt. G[rant] who acts as Pioneer [leader] Trav. 14 ms. & enc[amp] on the river in the rear of P. Saw buffalos & wolves. Wednesday, July 14. Last night or (Continued on page 626) [1] We started at 8:30 a.m. After traveling 2 or 3 miles we were overtaken by Brother Taylor on horseback. He stated that Bro. J. M. Grant and John Young had refused to obey orders and were out of their place, being that the 3rd hundred had got before him, which was 2nd. We concluded to stop at the first convenient place and have the matter settled. After traveling 8 miles, we stopped at a good watering place. The officers and men of the whole camp were called together. Bro. Taylor entered his complaint against Bros. Young and Grant, and after a great deal said by brethren, Bro. Pratt gave us a good lecture and reproved Bros. Young and Grant and said they should ask his forgiveness, which they did, and all was right. —Journal History (Journal of Charles C. Rich.) [2] Brigham Young's advance group of 143 (including three women) who were now within about 160 miles of the Salt Lake Valley. In the diary "the Pioneers" usually refers to this advance company. [3] President Brigham Young, leading the advance company, had reached Echo Canyon, almost within view of the Salt Lake Valley, while the main body of the pioneers were near Grand Island, more than 700 miles back. |
ARTIST WILLIAM HENRY JACKSON'S DEPICTION OF A PIONEER COMPANY'S ENCAMPMENT NEAR CHIMNEY ROCK
— Reproduced from Westward America, courtesy Howard R. Driggs NOTE
In this second group of Pioneers of 1847 there were about 1500 persons, men, women and children, traveling in about 570 wagons. At one time when they were traveling together on the plains, in double file, in their several companies, the line thus formed reached a distance of seven miles. The signal for starting in the morning was given by ringing the Nauvoo Temple bell. The bell was in the lead of one line and the cannon in the lead of the other. At times they traveled in five lines abreast. --Journal History, June, 1847 BULLETIN OF THE PLAINS
Buffalo skulls served as trail markers and post offices to succeeding companies of pioneers. Here pictured correctly, the head is often shown in reverse position, but the inscription was invariably made to read with the horns down, serving as a base to keep the head upright. The inscription here is actually a fiction—pioneers didn't travel this day, nor did Brigham Young make the signature. THE PIONEER JOURNEY
Dates on the map are those of the advance company under Brigham Young, but the route is the same followed by Eliza R. Snow and described in the present instalment of her diary. |
"Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow." Improvement Era. November 1943. pg. 664.
Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
PART IX
Along the North Platte, 1847
Tuesday, July 27. Start 10 min. past 7. At 10 arrive opposite Ash Hollow, where we halt for the purpose of getting timber to repair wagons in case of accident. Ate our bread up for supper & have no wood, expecting to find it last night, but thro' the kindness of Moth[er] Chase, we are supplied with the addition of b[uffalo] chips & we have a good breakfast. This is the 3rd time I have done so much cooking as to bake the pan-cakes since we started. The Ind[ians] that annoy'd us last night, pass us & strike their tents & travel with us till near night, when they fall in our rear & we encamp near them —a large com[pany] on the other side the river. It commenced raining just as we stopped—no time to cook supper —I am quite sick this aft.—glad to crawl to bed. Trav. 12 ms.
Wednesday, July 28. Start early the forepart of the day very warm clouds up afternoon & the wind blows —rains a little where we are, but this storm is most ahead. We pass the 2nd 50 & encamp in front, quite cold at night, but the rain over. Trav. 15 ms.
Thursday, July 29. Start 20 min. past 7—the 2nd 50 come in sight & we soon come nearly up with [John] Taylor's com. The bluffs on both sides the riv[er] are very picturesque. As we commence rising the hills, which are said to be the last between this & the Fort, we can see a singular appearing bluff, which in an inhabited country might be mistaken for a large building. It is said it may be seen in 40 ms. travel. The bluffs all day present buildings, terraces, platforms, &c of every description. We encamp in front of the 2nd 50 & in sight of J[ohn] Taylor's. Trav. 25 ms. Margaret [Peirce] walked on a range over the peaks & brought us wood, stones & cedar boughs. Yest. we met 5 fur trappers on horseback; they left their com[pany] on the other side to learn who we were.
Friday, July 30. Bro. Woodard came to Capt. Jos. B. N[oble] this mor. — told him he should leave the 50 unless he could either be paid for the work he had done or have his tools carried. We start ten min. past 7—the 2nd 50 in sight in our rear & 2 or more com[panies] in front. Move rapidly on with the same tranquility as yest., except Fath[er] Chase stopping a few min. to arrange his oxen. Capt. P[eirce] drove past him. The bluffs truly present views wildly magnificent. We arrive nearly opposite the peak, which we saw yest. mor., & encamp. The sun has been scorching thro' the day, tho' the nights are like Oct[ober]. I went to see Sis. Ewing at noon, who has been very sick for some time. Bro. Hendricks' oxen which almost gave out yest. still travel on. Our people saw a man across the river-—found him to be from California. Trav. 22 ms.
Saturday, July 31. Start about 7 in the mor. cool—the middle of the day hot—met one of the Pioneers by the name of Davenport going to Winter Quarters with a com. of fur traders — encamp between 5 & 6 in sight of John Taylor's & in sight of the Chimney Peak. The bluffs are stupendous & beautiful to the lovers of nature—no wood on this side of the river & only cedar bushes on the other—our cooking is done with fragments of flood wood & buffalo chips. The "Chimney Rock" or as I nam'd it, Chimney Peak, is said to be precisely 20 ms. from "Scotch [Scott's] Bluff." We encamp about 5 ms. in rear of opposite the latter. Trav. 16 ms.
Sunday, August 1. We do not trav. —this is a busy day in washing, baking, &c; the feed here is good—the 2nd 50 come up & encamp near us—some of our boys visit "Scotch [Scott's] Bluff" —report it to be a mile high & almost inaccessible—find a few pine trees & cedar shrubbery, currants, &c—the two com[panies] hold meeting at 5 in the eve. After night the Capt[ain]s meet —motion'd that B[righam H.] Young go into the 2nd 50 with his Uncle J[ohn].
Monday, August 2. Start a little after 7—the forenoon very hot—clouds up & is fine traveling, with now & then a sprinkle of rain—our cattle are herded out of the yard for several past nights. Traveled 16 miles.
Tuesday, August 3. The day hot— a little before night the com. halt while Sis. Ewing who was taken sick 2 days ago, died. We turn'd down to the river & encamp'd near [John] Taylor. The 2nd 50 not in sight. I had a 2nd chill this forenoon. Sis. P[eirce] & M[argaret] quite ill with the heat—saw a bluff which is said to be 50 ms. beyond the Fort. Trav. 15 ms.
Wednesday, August 4. This mor. we saw many men & horses—many female faces were lighted with unusual joy at the arrival of some of the battalion from California, looking healthy & in good spirits. We ascertain'd the Com [pany] to be Gen[eral] Kearney, Fremont & 14 Mormon soldiers going to Ft. Leavenworth for their release, &c The Gen[eral] had brought Fremont, he being obnoxious to our interest by prejudicing the Spaniards against us. The burial of Sis. E[wing] was attended with all the propriety circumstances would permit —after the customary dressing, the body was wrap'd in a quilt & consign'd to its narrow home without a coffin. It truly seem'd a lonely grave.[1] Capt. P[eirce] found a wood written by the Pioneers dated 1st of June, saying 15 ms. from Ft. Laram[ie] &c, after which we went 2 ms. & encamp'd. Today saw patches of prickly pear nearly half over the ground. Trav. 12 ms.
(To be continued)
[1] Death made occasional inroads among us. Nursing the sick in tents and wagons was a laborious task, but the patient faithfulness with which it was performed was no doubt registered in the archives above, and an unfailing memento of brotherly and sisterly love. The burial of the dead by the wayside was a sad office. For husbands, wives, and children to consign the cherished remains of loved ones to a lone grave was enough to try the firmest heart strings. Today a sister, Esther Ewing, who had passed away after a sickness of two weeks, was buried. The burial was attended with all the propriety that the circumstances would permit. After the customary dressing the body was wrapped in a quilt and consigned to its narrow house. It truly seemed sad and we sorrowed deeply as we turned from the lonely grave. — Eliza R. Snow, quoted in Tullidge's Women of Mormondom, p. 334.
Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
PART IX
Along the North Platte, 1847
Tuesday, July 27. Start 10 min. past 7. At 10 arrive opposite Ash Hollow, where we halt for the purpose of getting timber to repair wagons in case of accident. Ate our bread up for supper & have no wood, expecting to find it last night, but thro' the kindness of Moth[er] Chase, we are supplied with the addition of b[uffalo] chips & we have a good breakfast. This is the 3rd time I have done so much cooking as to bake the pan-cakes since we started. The Ind[ians] that annoy'd us last night, pass us & strike their tents & travel with us till near night, when they fall in our rear & we encamp near them —a large com[pany] on the other side the river. It commenced raining just as we stopped—no time to cook supper —I am quite sick this aft.—glad to crawl to bed. Trav. 12 ms.
Wednesday, July 28. Start early the forepart of the day very warm clouds up afternoon & the wind blows —rains a little where we are, but this storm is most ahead. We pass the 2nd 50 & encamp in front, quite cold at night, but the rain over. Trav. 15 ms.
Thursday, July 29. Start 20 min. past 7—the 2nd 50 come in sight & we soon come nearly up with [John] Taylor's com. The bluffs on both sides the riv[er] are very picturesque. As we commence rising the hills, which are said to be the last between this & the Fort, we can see a singular appearing bluff, which in an inhabited country might be mistaken for a large building. It is said it may be seen in 40 ms. travel. The bluffs all day present buildings, terraces, platforms, &c of every description. We encamp in front of the 2nd 50 & in sight of J[ohn] Taylor's. Trav. 25 ms. Margaret [Peirce] walked on a range over the peaks & brought us wood, stones & cedar boughs. Yest. we met 5 fur trappers on horseback; they left their com[pany] on the other side to learn who we were.
Friday, July 30. Bro. Woodard came to Capt. Jos. B. N[oble] this mor. — told him he should leave the 50 unless he could either be paid for the work he had done or have his tools carried. We start ten min. past 7—the 2nd 50 in sight in our rear & 2 or more com[panies] in front. Move rapidly on with the same tranquility as yest., except Fath[er] Chase stopping a few min. to arrange his oxen. Capt. P[eirce] drove past him. The bluffs truly present views wildly magnificent. We arrive nearly opposite the peak, which we saw yest. mor., & encamp. The sun has been scorching thro' the day, tho' the nights are like Oct[ober]. I went to see Sis. Ewing at noon, who has been very sick for some time. Bro. Hendricks' oxen which almost gave out yest. still travel on. Our people saw a man across the river-—found him to be from California. Trav. 22 ms.
Saturday, July 31. Start about 7 in the mor. cool—the middle of the day hot—met one of the Pioneers by the name of Davenport going to Winter Quarters with a com. of fur traders — encamp between 5 & 6 in sight of John Taylor's & in sight of the Chimney Peak. The bluffs are stupendous & beautiful to the lovers of nature—no wood on this side of the river & only cedar bushes on the other—our cooking is done with fragments of flood wood & buffalo chips. The "Chimney Rock" or as I nam'd it, Chimney Peak, is said to be precisely 20 ms. from "Scotch [Scott's] Bluff." We encamp about 5 ms. in rear of opposite the latter. Trav. 16 ms.
Sunday, August 1. We do not trav. —this is a busy day in washing, baking, &c; the feed here is good—the 2nd 50 come up & encamp near us—some of our boys visit "Scotch [Scott's] Bluff" —report it to be a mile high & almost inaccessible—find a few pine trees & cedar shrubbery, currants, &c—the two com[panies] hold meeting at 5 in the eve. After night the Capt[ain]s meet —motion'd that B[righam H.] Young go into the 2nd 50 with his Uncle J[ohn].
Monday, August 2. Start a little after 7—the forenoon very hot—clouds up & is fine traveling, with now & then a sprinkle of rain—our cattle are herded out of the yard for several past nights. Traveled 16 miles.
Tuesday, August 3. The day hot— a little before night the com. halt while Sis. Ewing who was taken sick 2 days ago, died. We turn'd down to the river & encamp'd near [John] Taylor. The 2nd 50 not in sight. I had a 2nd chill this forenoon. Sis. P[eirce] & M[argaret] quite ill with the heat—saw a bluff which is said to be 50 ms. beyond the Fort. Trav. 15 ms.
Wednesday, August 4. This mor. we saw many men & horses—many female faces were lighted with unusual joy at the arrival of some of the battalion from California, looking healthy & in good spirits. We ascertain'd the Com [pany] to be Gen[eral] Kearney, Fremont & 14 Mormon soldiers going to Ft. Leavenworth for their release, &c The Gen[eral] had brought Fremont, he being obnoxious to our interest by prejudicing the Spaniards against us. The burial of Sis. E[wing] was attended with all the propriety circumstances would permit —after the customary dressing, the body was wrap'd in a quilt & consign'd to its narrow home without a coffin. It truly seem'd a lonely grave.[1] Capt. P[eirce] found a wood written by the Pioneers dated 1st of June, saying 15 ms. from Ft. Laram[ie] &c, after which we went 2 ms. & encamp'd. Today saw patches of prickly pear nearly half over the ground. Trav. 12 ms.
(To be continued)
[1] Death made occasional inroads among us. Nursing the sick in tents and wagons was a laborious task, but the patient faithfulness with which it was performed was no doubt registered in the archives above, and an unfailing memento of brotherly and sisterly love. The burial of the dead by the wayside was a sad office. For husbands, wives, and children to consign the cherished remains of loved ones to a lone grave was enough to try the firmest heart strings. Today a sister, Esther Ewing, who had passed away after a sickness of two weeks, was buried. The burial was attended with all the propriety that the circumstances would permit. After the customary dressing the body was wrapped in a quilt and consigned to its narrow house. It truly seemed sad and we sorrowed deeply as we turned from the lonely grave. — Eliza R. Snow, quoted in Tullidge's Women of Mormondom, p. 334.
"Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow." Improvement Era. December 1943. pg. 754-755, 783.
Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow PART X 1847-Nearing Fort Laramie Thursday, August 5. Last night, Taylor's com. which we pass'd at noon, crowded onto our herding place —the herd mixed, &c. We started this mor. after them 6 pass'd them 6 sev[eral] other com[panie]s—pass'd a lot of Indian huts—sev[eral] Indians came out to meet us—all quiet—as we came up in the rear of C, C. Rich's com. the road on the left in which we trav. being vacant, Capt. T[aylor] trav. in it. Br. Duel from the right came over & crowded in 2 wagons; except this, all was harmony. We encamp near the fording place. At eve Capt. Peirce returns to the wigwams or rather tents—finds French gentlemen at supper with Indian servants — the meal consisted of light bread, coffee 6 meat serv'd on the ground with the tin dishes, &c. We have a sprinkle of rain—very dry; Indians visit us. Trav. 12 1/2 ms. Friday, August 6.[1] Cross the river which here has a stony bottom. We cross below the old Fort—both are built of unburnt brick. We go 5 miles beyond 6 encamp before 12. Capt. [Jed. M.] Grant having sent for us to stop till they arrive. Ch[arles] D[ilworth] & Br. Ellsworth go to P[arley] P. P[ratt] for permission for some to leave the Com[pany] 6 go ahead—he throws the responsibility upon Capt. [Jos. B.] N[oble], who will not take it by giving consent, &c, &c, &c The feed good on a little island—we have plenty of wood 6 water 6 before bedtime we flatter ourselves, (i.e. Sis[ter] Peirce 6 myself) that the go ahead feeling will be subdued 6 all stop 6 recruit the teams, repair wagons, &c. Moth [er] Chase 6 I have a treat in the eve. Jacob Cloward baptiz'd, &c My health much better. A Spaniard supp'd with us, John Taylor enc[amped] on the other side the Island. Saturday, August 7. All is well — may our union increase—but some things seem calculated to call up the feelings of the human heart 6 show the selfishness of man. Some of us at least feel somewhat indignant in consequence of a letter from Capt. G[rant] to P[arley P.] P[ratt] stating things derogatory to the benevolent feelings of the 1st 50—whether true or false may hereafter be proven. It is nearly night when they arrive—Capt. G[rant] sick— I took dinner with Sis. Holmes 6 supp'd with Sis. Noble. Sunday, August 8. A little shower at noon which is a rare thing in this country— the sisters of our com. have a meeting. Sis. Taylor 6 Leonard come. The Lord pour'd his spirit upon us in a copious effusion—sis. Riter receiv'd the gift of tongues. A move made to start in the eve, but the cattle mix'd with other herds 6 takes too long to find them. Sis. P[eirce] blest M[argaret] at our meet. 6 in the gift of tongues 6 united our hands, &c Monday, August 9. Move on—leave the 2nd 50 doing their blacksmith work with coal that father Chase burnt for us, &c. We are now among the much celebrated "black hills"—pass Capt. Edward Hunter & find that P[arley P.] P[ratt] has gone on—we stop by the river where we find a patch of grass, currants 6 buffalo berries—the country here is rugged enough—drivers feed with scrubby pine, hemlock, cottonwood, &c, very thinly scattered, with bluffs presenting the appearance of well fortified castles, the inhabitants of which exclude themselves from our view, altho' 2 grizzly bears had been seen. Last night had a fine shower. Trav[eled] 5 1/2 m[ile]s. Tuesday, August 10. We had a fine show'r in the night—this mor[ning] while waiting for Capt. G[rant] to come up, that he & Prest. [John] Y[oung]—who have trav. with the other 50, might go with us. M[argaret Peirce] baked 2 berry pies, the qualities of which are yet to be tested. We had a treat of wild goose for breakfast, which Sis. Wiler's driver kill'd last night. The road today is very hilly 6 rocky but hard, 6 we are not annoy'd with dust, stop 6 dine on our pies 6 milk-—no feed for cattle—I rode with sis. [Jedediah M.] Grant in the afternoon— she is quite feeble—cross'd some beautiful little streams towards night one warm spring in the morning—was amus'd to see the high peak which was said to be 50 ms. this side Laramie, surrounded with a white cloud, at some distance from the summit. We encamp 30 m[ile]s from the F[or]t. Wednesday, August 11. We cross the stream on which we encamp'd last night—I am sick all day—the road rough—considerably between bluffs — enc[amp] on a stream near "Kimball's Springs" of good cold water. [Gen. Chas. G] Rich comes up, trav. 15 ms. Thursday, August 12. Cross the stream & en[camp]—find more cold springs & plenty of wood—sis. Mary N[oble] gives birth to a fine girl in her wagon. I din'd with Sis. Wiler on tea 6 light biscuit. The 2nd 50 come up. Charcoal was burned for the camp blacksmiths, and five gallons of tar made by one of the companies. Friday, August 13. Spent the day with Sis. N[oble], Her babe not well. [John] Taylor and [A. O.] Smoot come up—Sis. Hunter calls, informs us of the hail-storm which last eve[ning] threaten'd us, but pass'd round—she said the stones were large as small walnuts 6 whitened the ground. Saturday, August 14. Sis. [A. O.] Smoot called on me in the mor[ning]. They had 10 horses 6 2 colts stolen by the Ind[ians] night before last. I din'd with Sis. Leonard on pot pie—gave no- tice to all the 100 & met in the aft[ernoon] for worship—had a glorious time. 3 receiv'd the gift of tongues — the "spirit of the Holy Ghost" was truly pour'd out—last eve the young people met for a dance & br. Baker's boys & others intruded with much insolence they are tried this eve before the bishop's court, &c, &c. This 50 burn a coal pit—the 2d 50 are having their work done that they may start tomorrow we are also manufacturing tar—Capt. [A. O.] Smoot's Com. made 50 gallons]. Sunday, August 15. The 2d 50 start —sis. [Loven] Weeks sent for me— I spent sevferal] hours with her—call'd on sis. Holmes—din'd with sis. [Amos H.] Neff—vis[ited] sis. Grant & N[oble] after walking to the tar pit, &c. Capt. P [eirce] loses an ox—yesterday] saw M. Forsgreen & Sister F. Granger pass sitting in the front of the wagon— [P. P.] P[ratt] & J[ohn] Young, start for the Pioneers,[2] very blustering in the aft[ernoon] but no rain of any consequence. Monday, August 16. A motion was made to start—when the cattle are brought up, 16 are not to be found—do not find them thro' the day. William [Baldwin] is out on foot & alone for his ox which is gone with the rest—we feel very anxious for him on account of the large wolves & Indians. I go to Moth[er] Chase's—hear that Pioneers [Pres. Brigham Young's company] have arrived at the upper camps—that the City [Salt Lake City] is laid out &c. Sis. H. [ ? ] calls while we are having a rich treat from on high, call on sis. Weeks—find her better—sup at home on a rabbit pot-pie. Tuesday, August 17. The men go in search of the cattle. The sis[ters] meet in the grove for prayer—we have a time not to be forgotten. Bless the Lord, O my soul, yea, I do praise him for the gift of his holy spirit—before I got out of the grove, I heard that the brethren] were on track of the cattle — went home with sis. Young, read the letter from the Pioneers by Porter of the Pioneers & Bro. Binley of the soldiers— the letter brought the most cheering int[erest], dated Aug. 2d, stating that they were in the beautiful valley of the Great Salt Lake, that they had that morning commenc'd surveying the City—that it is "a goodly land' & their souls are satisfied. The soldiers from Pueblo & the breth[ren] from Miss[issippi] have arriv'd & they number in all 450 souls & know not one dissatisfied — I din'd with br. [John] Y[oung] & lady & L. Robinson from Rich's Camp. Sis. P[eirce] sick in consequence of poison which is effecting her hands & face, the sis. remember'd her in their meeting—she heard from her son that he was well—had not been homesick— that Prest. Y[oung] was going to keep him on his side, &c, which comforted her. We have a smart sprinkle of rain near night—Prest. [John] Young, Capt. [Jedediah] Grant & Capt. Noble rig themselves for herding—they go out and bring in the herd which Captain P[eirce] recommended but was oppos'd in. My heart was made to rejoice at seeing our 3 head officers united in one thing—it surely is in accordance with the prayers of the sis. This morning Sis. G[rant] is better—thinks the pickled pork I obtain'd of I. Ashby did her good. Wednesday, August 18.[3] Capt. G[rant] started early to meet the men who are in pursuit of the cattle—commenc'd raining about noon — Sis. P[eirce] is better—the men do not return. Thursday, August 19. Last night rained in the forepart—between 1 and 2 our cattle brake [break] from the yard—the men go in pursuit & return with them in the mor[ning]. One of Capt. P[eirce's] not to be found— after consulting, it is thought best to move forward with what strength we have. Capt. P [eirce] goes in search of his ox & we are waiting after the other Tens leave. Sis. Wiler brings me a bowl of tea while waiting in the horseless buggy. The Lord bless her for all her kindness to me. My pray'r for the Camp is that God will pour out his Spirit upon us—we seem to have the most difficulty when the most officers are with us. O Lord! fill them with thy Spirit—unite their hearts—incline them to seek unto thee for thy blessings to rest upon this people—may we uphold them by the pray'r of faith. Capt. P[eirce] finds the ox that stray'd last night & we go on—ascend a hill where every team has to double. Capt. P[eirce] 's horses gone after the cattle he fastens the carriage to a wagon the women walk. I ride with br. Hendricks. Sis. Love is run over with a heavy loaded wagon.[4] We encamp before night on a small creek—I bake the pancakes for supper—rains quite a show'r before we get supper. M[argaret], E[dith] & I crawl under a wagon, the rest get in, &c.—trav. 8 ms. Friday, August 20. Last night Br. Love & J[ohn] Dillworth who went for the cattle return'd—said they went 10 ms. beyond [Fort] Laramie—-found them in possession of the French to whom they were sold by the Ind[ians]. They were oblig'd to give one pair to get the rest. Stop'd at [Fort] Laramie overnight, where they were hospitably treated & drove from there the next day—When about 1 1/2 m[ile]s from the Camp, the cattle broke & ran for our herd, where they were found this mor[ning]. Capt. P[eirce] gets an ox of Br. Love to pair with the odd one & we go on in our usual style. The road is up & down hill—high peaks to be seen at the right & left—showers falling on them & we sometimes get sprinkl'd. Recent rains cause the way to be rather muddy. We encfamp] on a brisk little stream with a range of bluffs on the left—I take a walk along the sides & scare up a mighty large rabbit. Sup'd with fath[er] &moth[er] Chase on rabbit pot-pie. Trav. 12 ms. Saturday, August 21. We start very late. J[oseph] Y[oung], B[righam H.] Y[oung], [Jedediah M.] Grant's & [Jos. B.] Noble's teams in front—we had not gone far when to the general joy [J. M.] Grant, [Levi] Riter & another, who went back to meet them with the stray cattle came up after recruiting their strength with a repast which was left on a post at our last night encampment. Our road was round about between bluffs & over hills—the sides of the Bluffs and for a distance the road were nearly the color of well burnt brick—sometimes the red of the bluffs being strip'd with nearly a chalk color, the little green shrubs & herbage give it a romantic appearance. We stop'd on a stream at noon—pass'd over several]— trav. till nine at night. This mor. I heard that sis. Love sat up & comb'd her hair. This is truly a manifestation of the power of God. Trav. 17 ms. Sunday, August 22. Very late when we start—then we wait a long while for something to be adjusted—we see the front of the Com[pany] forming a ring on the top of a hill, at about half past one. Capt. P[eirce] stops on the stream below. Capt. L[athrop] proposes going three ms. farther—they yoke up or rather hitch up—ascend the hill after swallowing a hasty dinner — Capt. G[rant] & others meet [Capt.] Lathrop who is in front & object to the move—after much talk they drive back & form in the ring—a meeting is called for adjusting matters. Capt. G[rant] saying he was willing for us to travel in 10's or otherwise, but wanted an understanding, [to] have it done by the general voice. Some new arrangements for herding were made & liberty giv'n for any 10 to start when ready without regard to the upper authorities, &c, &c. Call on Sis. Love—she is quite smart. Trav. 8 ms. Monday, August 23. This mor. Sis. P[eirce] broil'd some buf[falo] meat which Capt. [Josiah] M[filer] kill'd yes[terday] , but it seem'd to have been the father of all buffalos & uneatable. We start at 8 with Capt. N[oble] in front and Prest. [John] Y[oung] & Capt. Y. [or Z?] in the rear. In about 3 ms. cross a stream—come onto the Platte in about 8 ms., which seems like meeting an old friend—find an inscription "90 ms. to Ft. Johns" [John][5]—go 2 ms., cross Deer Creek, bait [feed] & dine—a dish of tea is very acceptable The day clear-—the road pretty smooth, but very hilly & barren. A windy thunderstorm before night. Trav. 15 ms. Tuesday, August 24. Prest. [John] Y[oung] B[righam H.] Y[oung] & Capt. [Jed. M.] Grant take the lead — before noon br. Love breaks a wagon. We encamp about 1 o'clock—they go back for the wagon, &c. Br. Baker kills a buffalo—The road not bad—on our left, far in the distance, a ridge or mountain rises in majesty behind the ranges of smaller bluffs between, having the appearance of dense blue clouds. A shower of hail & rain adds variety to the afternoon scenery. Trav. 8 ms. Wednesday, August 25. The Camp moves out in the mor[ning], leaving Capt. P[eirce] & Capt. M [filer] in waiting for the wagon maker & the broken wagon. We start between 11 & 12. The weather cold—the road smooth, but deep ravines, pass a board saying 110 m[ile]s from Ft. Johns—pass a ferry where the inscription says 8 ms. to another. Pass another way-mark, 120 ms. from Ft. Johns [Laramie]. Encamped— sun an hour high—do not reach the Camp. The cloud-capped bluffs on our left look dreary on a cold day. Trav. 14 or 15 ms. (To be continued) [1] The apostles in the Great Salt Lake Valley renewed their covenants by baptism, and the rest of the company soon after followed their example. Including the detachment of the Mormon Battalion and Saints from Mississippi, who had arrived a few days before, there were about 400 souls in the Valley.—Journal History [2] To meet President Brigham Young and company returning from Salt Lake Valley on the way back to Winter Quarters. [3] Nearly half of the 143 original Pioneers left Great Salt Lake Valley with ox teams, on their return to Winter Quarters for their families, with Brigham Young in charge of the company. August 26 the second company of returning Pioneers left for Winter Quarters, where they arrived October 31. —Journal History [4] Sister Love was run over by a wagon loaded with sixteen hundred pounds. One wheel ran over her breast. She was administered to and was around again in a day or two.—From Kirtland to Salt Lake [5] Fort Laramie, first called Fort William, was named for William Sublette, who with Robert Campbell established the fort in 1834. These men hoped to control the Indian trade between the Missouri River and the Black Hills. A year later it was bought by James Bridger and others who rebuilt the fort at a cost of $10,000. At this time it was also known as Fort John, however, it became better known as Fort Laramie, the name of the river on which it is situated, a tributary to the Platte. |
FORDING THE PLATTE
"Like meeting an old friend," writes Eliza R. Snow as the company makes one of several crossings of the Platte River, which, as a tributary of the Missouri has flanked the pioneer route all the way from Winter Quarters, continuing past Ash Hollow, Chimney Rock, Scott's Bluffs, Fort Laramie, and Red Butte as the North Platte. From Devil's Gate the pioneer company will follow an arm of the Platte known as the Sweetwater River. —From a painting in the Scott's Bluff Museum. Photograph by George Strebel in the Brighton Young University 1936 Art Caravan collection. ROBERT PEIRCE
Often mentioned in the diary, he was captain of the ten and head of the family with which Eliza traveled. From an old tintype. THE PIONEER JOURNEY
Dates on the map are those on which the advance company under Brigham Young arrived at these points, but the route is the same described in the diary. |
"Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow." Improvement Era. January 1944. pg. 24-25, 55.
Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow PART XI 1847—NEARING THE ROCKIES Thursday, August 26. Come up to the crossing in 2 ms. where the rest of the 50 were just rolling out. L. Johnson & others were starting for W[inter] Quarters. Five 50's left here last Mon- [day] . The river is of a pebbly bottom —the water not over the wagon hubs. The country is very rugged with piles of red & black rock of every form & size. No wood where we encamp 12 ms. from the crossing. A bluff with cedar trees is in our front 2 ms. distant. Without wood, as I sat viewing the Camp I thought surely the Saints are a creative people for there is plenty of cooking going on. Here is a small stream or rather slough & small springs, which serve for cooking. A bufffalo] & ant [elope] kill'd. Trav. 14 ms. I wrote the following "A Song of the Desert," on the bank of Platte River. Beneath the cloud-top'd mountain Beside the craggy bluff Where ev'ry dint of nature Is rude & wild enough Upon the verdant meadow -- Upon the sunburnt plain. Upon the sandy hillock We waken music's strain. Beneath the pine's thick branches That has for ages stood-- Beneath the humble cedar And the green Cottonwood-- Beside the broad smooth river-- Beside the flowing spring. Beside the limpid streamlet We often sit and sing. Beneath the sparkling concave When stars in millions come To cheer the pilgrim strangers And bid us be at home, Beneath the lovely moonlight Where Cynthia spreads her rays, In social groups we gather. We join in songs of praise. Cheered by the blaze of fire-light When twilight shadows fall And when the darkness gathers Around our spacious hall; With all the warm emotion To youthful bosoms giv'n. In strains of pure devotion We praise the God of heav'n. Friday, August 27. Start in good season— the road is very smooth insomuch that Capt. P[eirce] wishes me to record the circumstance of Fath[er Isaac] Chase riding up hill for the first time. We pass sev[eral] saltpetre springs & the carcasses of 10 or 11 cattle. We encamp in an environ with majestic bluffs—a slough-creek & cold spring. The country is very mountainous & rocky. Large piles of rock lying strew'd about the barren surface, & ornamented with a red moss—trav. 20 ms. Saturday, August 28. When the herd is brought up, nearly half are missing — A late arrangement having been made for the Capt[ain]s to take the herding by turns — last night was Capt. P[eirce's] turn. Capt Jos. B. N[oble] & those who have their teams go on. Our buggy was harness'd before the herd came in. I was holding the horses when about 1 1 of the horses became unmanageable— took a circle round & broke the tongue which Capt. P[eirce] & L[evi Riter] soon repair'd—myself quite ill since the walk I took yest[erday]. Lie on sis. H[endrick's] bed till the cattle arrive, which are found by that part of the com[pany] that went forward & are met by boys sent in that direction. Capt. L[athrop] having discovered their tracks — 4 are missing which are brought in at 2 o'clock at night by those that went back to the Platte where we encamp'd night before last. We move in the aft[ernoon], encamp in a basin on an elevated spot where the cattle go into a mire—they are oblig'd to take them up. Talk of trav[eling] in the night—it is cloudy; rains some—they yoke all & confine [them] in the ring. Sunday, August 29. Start while the moon is yet shining, go perhaps 6 ms., where [there] is a beautiful stream & very little feed & stop till half past 10 or 11. We then go on till 1/2 past four, when we encamp near the Sweet-water with our broken Com[pany], Pres. [John] Y[oung] & Capt. G[rant] go on. Capt. G[rant] having sent 2 of his wag[ons] with Capt. N[oble]. Br. H[endricks] & Sis. W[eiler] thrown out of their place by starting out in front. The ground in many places perfectly white with Saleratus or saltpetre or some other composition. The bluffs rise one above another till the farthest looks like a dense cloud—all of irregular height & terminating in peaks at unequal distances. The road from where we bait [feed] is very sandy & seems laid out in an opening of a rugged enclosure. Sis. P[eirce] made me a dish of tea which is very beneficial to my health, having rode with moth[er] Peirce all the mor[ning], not able to sit up. Trav. 12 ms. Monday, August 30. This mor. Capt. P[eirce] had a vote called on the case of br. Hendricks—he is thrown out of his place by vote—we pass the camp of Capt. N[oble], G[rant], &c. consisting of about 20 wagons—sis. W[eiler] with them having gone ahead yes[terday]. Pass one ferry boat near the base of Independence Rock, where we cross Sweet-water Creek—Cattle are strew'd all along the road side. Find a board in the mor. sign'd W[illard] Snow saying, "Left here on the 29th—lost 11 oxen since we left you." The bluffs rise on either side—some say that this is a commencement of the "pass"—we stop between 1 & 2 in an environ thro' which runs the Sweet-water—a singular opening in the bluff which rises perhaps Yi mile in height on one side [Devil's Gate]—the 2nd 50 three ms. ahead almost disabled by the loss of cattle.[1] Trav. 12 ms.—sandy road. Tuesday, August 31 . Start at 8. Capt. L[athrop]'s wagon breaks and we stop at the first encampment—a basin on the side of the river with good feed, 3 of the Pueblo soldiers arrive [Battalion men returning from California]—the other part of this 50 come up at eve. The broken wheel is rigg'd in 3 hours from the time we stop'd & all is well — Some baptisms attended in the eve. Br. H[endricks] in the rear of [Levi] Riter. Capt. P[eirce] says he shall have his place tomorrow. Moth[er] Cfhase] & I have a vis [it]. Trav. 8 ms. Wednesday, September 1. Start a quarter before 9 and overtake the 2nd 50 a little before 12 8 encamp. A meeting is call'd when an effort is made by neutralizing the strength of the teams to assist the 2nd 50 who have lost 25 head since they left us—not quite all by disease, some few were return'd to other comp [anie]s that had been loan'd. Capt. [Willard] Snow ask'd assistance as a duty, saying he was not beholden to any man, &c, &c. Capt. [Jedediah M.] G[rant] manifested a spirit of meekness & spoke with wisdom, &c. It was mention'd that the Capt[ain]s be authorized to act for the com[pany], & yoke whatever in their judgment was proper to be put to service of cows, heifers, calves, &c. Some thought the motion oppressive & objected, but it was carried by the majority. Trav. 5 ms. Thursday, September 2. Last eve[ning] we had the pleasure of hearing from the Valley & of tasting some salt from the Great Lake, by a small party of soldiers & pioneers with 3 wagons that came up last night. We got ready to start in the morn[ing], Capt. P[eirce] moves out & stops. Capt. Jedediah M. Grant & [Jos. B.] N[oble] come up saying that J[ohn] Young said this 50 could take more load & must not go, &c. They examine the wagons, at length we move on—word arrives that Sis[ter Caroline] Grant [wife of Jedediah M.] is apprehensive of dying —wishes me to come back but the distance is farther than I can walk. I call'd on her in the mor[ning]—found her sitting in bed cleaning her teeth. Her symptoms bad, yet I hope & think that she will recover. Capt. Grant spoke as if it did not matter for this 50 to stop for the other till we get to his camp which is a few ms. ahead—it seems to be by J[ohn] Y[oung's] order that we are stop'd for the examination, after the teams were neutraliz'd. The road very sandy. Hear at night that Sister G[rant] is better—They stop 6 m[ile]s in the rear—a show'r before night. Trav[eled] 12 ms. Br. Woodward comes up. Sister [Jedediah M.] Grant's child died today. To Mrs. Caroline Grant, written on hearing of the death of her little child. Mourn not for that sweet gem that's gone, Altho' you priz'd it dear: The resurrection morning dawn Is drawing very near. It was your own & yours 'twill be In seasons yet to come: Yes, in the next eternity 'Twill ornament your home. Her spirit's mould was loveliness Replete with placid charms: She's gone in perfect holiness To rest in Jesus' arms. 'Twas a sweet child—a precious gem -- A rose-bud borne away: That beauteous on the parent stem Will bloom in future day. —Sept. 4. 1847 Friday, September 3. A board saying 200 ms. to Fort Johns is at our last night's enc[ampment]. We start late — road very sandy for 8 ms. In the aft[ernoon] we pass a strait between 2 ridges of mountains—cross the river 3 times, before which we meet soldiers & Pioneers with perhaps 1 8 wagons & a herd of loose oxen, enc[amp] on the riv[er] near the last crossing—we have pass'd the saleratus lakes, pass'd 1 yest[ erday] morfning]. Trav. 12ms. Saturday, September 4. J. Gleason parts with us, I having furnish'd him a bag to carry saleratus to Sis. L. we having pass'd the springs. Br. [Jesse CI Little [a returning pioneer from the Salt Lake Valley, en route to the Eastern States Mission] takes tea with us, with mutual satisfaction. We are now 300 miles from the valley. Br. Y.'s youngest child died in bed last night. They are back 6 ms. Kill'd buf[falo], ant [elope] & a mt. sheep. Trav. 7 ms. Sunday, September 5. Our wash'd clothes frozen stiff this mor. on the line & bushes. The Pioneers called this a little short of 300 m[ile]s to the Valley. Here is a mile board 230 ms. to [from] Ft. Johns [Fort Laramie] . The day fine & and the road pretty good—some of the way, very sandy—the bluffs not so high & at a greater distance than for a long time. Sup on apple dumpling. Trav. 18 ms. Monday, September 6. Capt. N[oble's] wagon which was broken yest. repair'd. Sis. W[eiler] who left some time ago comes up in our rear. We enc[amp] on the Sweet-water having cross'd it twice today & once yest. Stop about 3—rains most of the time till night—very cold & blustering—pass the 240 mile b[oar]d. Trav. 8 ms. Tuesday, September 7. Snow-storm last night. This mor. I wash'd in snow —the storm continued till 11. We started at 1/2 past 10—snow'd after intervals thro' the day. All the way along hills & in places intolerably rocky—the bluffs white with snow. This call'd "Wind Ridge." Trav. 10 ms. Wednesday, September 8. This mor. as we were about starting Harvey P[eirce] & others came up, informing us that the Pioneers were 15 ms. distant & would be with us. We went 2 ms. to a place of enc[ampment] when 2 brethren on horseback in our rear, thought best to go to the next stream, and while our wagons were many, standing side by side waiting for the repair of the crossing, those men rode hastily past—the oxen took fright & almost in a moment perhaps 20 wagons were in rapid motion. Many cross'd the stream in different directions. Many lives were expos'd, but thro' the protecting pow'r of God no one was much hurt & no wagon materially injur'd.[2] We went a m[ile] farther & spent the day with the Pioneers. Pres. [Brigham] Y[oung], H[eber] C. K[imball], & Afmasa] Lyman sup'd with us. The 2nd 50 came up. Trav. 3 ms.[3] Thursday, September 9. Last night all guard was neglected & about 40 horses & mules stolen. An arm'd company] was put on the track—late this eve, 2 horses are brought in by one of the comfpany]. The forepart of the day very cold—I spent it with Moth[er] Chase. Had a spiritual treat wherein both rec'd great blessings. She said certain intelligence should come to me thro' the proper channel, &c. We then enjoy'd a treat of tea & pancakes. Friday, September 10. The com[pany] return'd with only three horses. Capt. Peirce loses 1 mule. We move on after parting with the Pioneers. [Pres. Brigham Young returning to Winter Quarters.] Last eve a meeting was held after the Pioneers preach'd and a song sung I had written. (Wrote to L[orenzo Snow] and L[eonora Leavitt], [her brother and sister] & Sister Sarah M. Kimball.) Before the Pioneers left, [Pres.] Brigham [Young] came to the carriage, blest us—I ask d who was to be my counselor for the year to come — He said E[liza] R. S[now]. I said, "She is not capable." He said, "I have appointed her president"—said he had conversation with br. P[eirce] about provisions—that he will furnish me & all will be right. Teams sufficient for both 50's to move, altho' much loss was sustained by the 2nd & it was thought necessary for us to go on to Green R[iver] & come back for them, encamp side by side. The company sent in pursuit of the 40 stolen animals returned with only 3 horses. Trav. 12 ms. Saturday, September 11 . We pass or rather cross the "dividing ridge” —pass the Pacific Springs & enc[amp] off the road with fresh feed. The 2nd 50 not quite up—the ground white with saleratus. The day warm & sunny. Trav. 18 ms. Sunday, September 12. Soon after we start a messenger arrives from the 2nd 50 with a note to Capt. Noble requesting him to stop for them as soon as he arrives at sufficient feed to sustain the cattle. We cross Dry Sandy & enc[amp] on Little Sandy at night. Had a conversation with Capt. P[eirce] about matters & things of my own concern. He said that arrangements were made to his satisfaction perfectly. Said B[righa]m expressed the same satisfaction for his bringing me, that he had done to me before when, saying that I was welcome to live in the house with Clara [Pres. Young's wife] if I would accept it, &c, &c.—Yest[erday] I was quite sick—today begin to feel more like life. Trav. 19 ms., pass the 300 m. board [300 miles from Ft. Laramie]. Monday, September 13. Not much feed & we go on to Big Sandy. The ridges of mountains so distant that it seems like the prairie country. A few scattering trees to be seen. Yestferday] met a large com [pany] of soldiers from Mexico. Trav. 8 ms. Tuesday, September 14. Last eve the breth[ren] & sisfters] met for prayer meeting in the yard [circle of wagons] —the spirit of the Lord was there. Capt. N[oble] open'd with pray'r, was follow'd by Br. Ellsworth—the subject of stopping today for the other 50 was discuss'd in a candid, intelligent & brotherly manner. Br. E[llsworth] motioned that Capt. Nfoble] go & meet the other 50 & learn the cause of their requisition for us to stop. All seem'd to feel the necessity of wasting no time; yet they did not like to transgress the principles of order & submission. This mor. Capt. Peirce propos'd going to Green R[iver] to do some repairing, while the rest come up—call'd for his 10—a discussion ensued—all conclude to wait—Capt. N[oble] & Porter go to meet the Com [pany]. The mountains very grand—ridge rising after ridge in front of me—the clouds sometimes obscuring the distant ridges. I visit Sister [Jedediah M.] G[rantf who seems improving a little. Sis[ter] L. nurses her. The breth[ren] meet & Pres. John Young explain'd the cause of wishing to see us—that B[righam] told him to keep the com[panie]s together till we get to Green R[iver], that he compare us to a kite & he now cuts the string & lets us go, &c. Wednesday, September 15. We go 2 m[iles] & cross the B[ig] S[andy] River—pass the 130 m[ile] board, being 200 ms. from the Valley. When [we] cross the riv[er], the road very smooth most of the day—the mountains at great distances on either side, the land in the forenoon undulating—in the aft. regularly descending plain-—come to the riv[er] & follow it 2 ms. & enclamp] off the road on the stream. Trav. 21 ms. Thursday, September 16. Traveled 6 ms. on a broad descending plain, then cross the Green R[iver], a beautifully clear stream with a row of cottonwood on the north side—go 3 ms. & pass 7 wagons from Taylor's com[pany] of whom are the 2 Brennus—go 1 m. farther] down the riv[er] & enc[amp]. Yes[terday] & today we pass the country where the Pioneers were taken sick —sev[eral] of our comp[any] slightly attack'd with mountain fever. Trav. 10 ms. Friday, September 17. This morning Capt. [Robert] P[eirce] proposed being cut loose from the 50 which was done by vote of the Capt[ain]s; after which being ready first he took the lead. We trav. without water; come to a guide b[oar]d directing to feed—go 1 m[ile] & enc[amp] on the Muddy. Capt. L. K. & N[oble] go on by taking the right hand which is 5 ms. Trav. 15 ms. Saturday, September 18. Find the herd without difficulty] tho' not herded, find Br [other] B. s 3 wag[ons] in 3 ms. & come to the other enc[ampment] in 5 [miles]—conclude best to spend the day in good feed. Find plenty of currants. Trav. 5 ms. Sunday, September 19. Start late come to a beautiful enc[ampment] cross a stream—see the 7 wag[ons] in front & the 2nd 50 in the rear—in a short distance cross the Black Fork. Br. W. goes ahead to find pasture. Capt. M. & C. [?] go on to hunt. Capt. N[oble's] carriage breaks down —Capt. P[eirce] rides before the com[pany] . We pass some splendid bluffs —pass the 370 m[ile] board—enc [amp] on a small stream with a shade of trees & shrubs. A br[other] arrives from the Valley in four days. Trav. 14 ms. (To be continued) [1] The companies passed the ferryboat used by President Brigham Young's advance Pioneers in crossing the Sweetwater below Independence Rock. The road along here passes through the alkali lands. As this was the first experience of our emigration passing through this district, so fatal to cattle, the losses were heavy. Their carcasses were numerous along the wayside. —James A. Little, From Kirtland to Salt Lake City. p. 140. [2] I was sitting on the back of a two-seated carriage, holding a pair of high strung horses with all the strength I could exert. I prayed with all the fervency of my spirit. I knew full well that if they once started nothing could stop them. Sister Peirce and her daughter, with whom I was traveling, after making ineffectual efforts to stop one of their teams, came to the horses I was holding and took them by the bits. So frightened were they, that although they made no attempt to move, their flesh shook with a tremor from head to foot. My arms were lame for several days. We arrived at our encampment and spent the day with the Pioneers. President Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball and Amasa M. Lyman took supper with us.—Eliza R. Snow, Journal History, this date. [3] See Journal History, this date. Eliza R. Snow's Poems, Vol. I, p. 183. President Young told Eliza to stay with "Clara" at the Fort in the Valley. |
INDEPENDENCE ROCK
Left, the Sweetwater River; the cleft in the background is Devil's Gate, on the pioneer route. Thousands of wayfarers carved their names on the Rock during the covered wagon era. THE PIONEER JOURNEY
Dates on the map are those on which the advanced company under Brigham Young arrived at these points, hut the route is the same described in this instalment of the diary. |
"Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow." Improvement Era. February 1944. pg. 88-89, 113-114, 116.
Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow PART XII 1847 — Arrival in the Valley Monday, September 20. Warm—the dust very unpleasant. Br. breaks a wagon—enc[amp] in the sand by a stream. Trav[eled] 8 m[ile]s. Tuesday, September 21. Start at 9 bait at 1 2 by a creek—pass Fort Bridger a short distance & enc [amp] . The Com[pany] of 7 enc[amp] near—I am quite sick. Our people traffic [trade] with the French & Ind[ians], Trav. 8 ms. Wednesday, September 22. The cattle cannot be found till too late & the majority move to stop till morning—the day spent trafficking—the 2nd 50 come up. Last night Br. Vance arrived — speaks of a frost there that injur'd the crops. I am quite sick in the forenoon much better in the eve[ning]. Moth[er] Chase & I have a rich treat in the carriage—with a promise of new interest], if diligent & submissive—Br. Love lost an ox—Capt. Peirce buys a pair & a cow & calf. Thursday, September 23. Saw J. Y. from the Valley. Last night a dance was attended in one of the Frenchmen's houses by many from each 50, both old and young—Prest J[ohn] Y[oung] & wife not excepted—it continued till nearly 2 after which a hooting was kept up till morning by the drunken natives. We pass'd a spring—a very small run—a curiously variegated landscape & encamp on a stream call'd Muddy that was nearly dry. The dust intolerable. Trav. 13 ms. Friday, September 24. My health better—finish a garment for Sis. P[eirce]. We start late—the pow'r of the air rules & the dust is worse than intolerable—find the 7 wag[ons] of G[rant]'s enc[amped] at the springs, 88 where, not finding sufficient water, we go on—leave Riter & Dilworth & the 2nd 50 in sight—cross a mountain pass, poplar groves—a soda spring & the 30mfile] b[oard] from Bridger—go 1 m[ile] beyond & enc [amp] by springs 1 raffle] from B[ear] Riv[er], with a beautiful moon-light about 8 o'clock. Trav. 18 ms. Saturday, September 25. We go to Bear R[iver], when a consultation is had & some are desirous to stop & do some blacksmithing. Part conclude to go on to Cache Cave & hunt—Capt. P[eirce] goes ahead—we meet Capt. M. who said that a part of T[aylor]'s company pass'd the Cave last eve—no chance for game—Rich's com[pany] having clear'd the ground. Met C, sick with mountain fever, also men from the Valley with 4 p[ai]r of cattle. Pass some stupendous bluffs of pebble stone rock on one side the "narrows" which we pass'd before we cross 'd the stream on which we enc[ amp]. Capt. P[eirce], L[athrop] & K[imball] come up; also Capt. N[oble] in the eve. Trav, 11 ms. Sunday, September 26. Leave our enclosure, which might puzzle a querist where we came in 6 where we were to go out, which we do by rising a long winding hill, from the top of which we see the mountains of the Valley. We enc [amp] about noon across a small stream opposite a high bluff, in the side of which is a curious opening in solid rock call'd Cache Cave. Heard that Sister G. [wife of Jedediah M. Grant] died this morning.[1] Porter & J. G. arrived in the eve. Bring word they have had no frost in the V[alley] to injure much, &c, Riter & D. come up. Trav, 5 ms. Monday, September 27. We trav. most of the day in a Canion or narrow opening between 2 ranges of mountains. Capt. [Jedediah M.] G[rant] passes us with a horse team, going to the V[alley] to bury his wife. Br. & Sis. Leonard going with him. Capt. Peirce & Lathrop enc[amped] together. Neff stops in the rear K[imball] on hand. Our place is delightful—the mountains being in a half circle on either side & variegated with indescribable beauty, rising in a kind of majesty that could but inspire feelings of sublimity in a contemplative mind. Pass the 60 m[ile] b[oard] from B[ridger], Trav. 13 ms. Tuesday, September 28. Go on in the same range—pass curious mountains which delight me, mostly of a fine brick color on the right hand & rising perpendicularly 6 on the left covered partially with surf, with cedar & willow bushes between the ridges. Pass Sis. Taylor, stopping at Weber's Fork pass the river & go 2 ms, cross the creek 4 times that emp[tied] in the W[eber], Trav. 14 ms. Wednesday, September 29. Last eve was delightful—this mor, cold with a sprinkle of rain, a strange occurrence. C. D. & Ellsworth stop to hunt—in a few rods we enter "Piatt's Pass — the road rough—sideling & thro' thickets of willows—pass the 80 m[ile] b[oard] & enc [amp] on a fine stream call'd Canion Creek, after crossing one 3 times. The middle of this & the 2 last days too warm for the cattle. Some of [John] T[aylor]'s company [are] where we stop. From Big Mountain we saw the mountains of this side of the Valley. Trav. 11 ms. the 80 m. b[oard] on top of 5 m. hill. Thursday, September 30. Cross'd Canion Creek 8 times—the road sideling, cradling, stumpy, bushy, &c. We enc [amp] on a side hill about 1 m. ahead of the 90 m. b[oard], Capt. L. passes us; also Sister T[aylor], but her camp stops in our rear. The buggy is found insufficient to go any farther Trav. 6 ms. Friday, October 1. Left the carriage Sanox that gave out yesterday—I rode in the black wag [on]. Sister P[eirce], M[argaret] & Edith walk. Very, very dusty, thro' brush & timber—up the mountain to Bellows Peak, where we met J[ohn] T[aylor] who ask'd me if I had lately seen my face, his own being behind a black mask, (the soil having chang'd)—we then went slash mash down over stumps, trees, &c, &c.[2]— enc [amp] in the Canion a little in rear Capt. L[athrop] & Sis. Taylor, thankful for our deliverance thus far. Traveled 10 miles. Saturday, October 2. Cross a stream 19 times—which is dry in some of its beds—the vegetation & shrubbery is very much chang'd; here is oak, maple & elder, osier, &c. About 4 we come in view of the Valley, looking like a broad rich river bottom—It rains 6 a breach made in the side of our wag[on] cov[er], torn by the brush, admits both rain & dust, but being in sight of home, we make our way to the Fort [Pioneer Square].[3] I am too sick to enjoy the scenery, but a good cup of tea prepar'd by Sis. P[eirce] refreshes me, also a vis [it] from Sis. Sessions]. Trav. 14 ms.[4] Sunday, October 3. This mor. seat myself by a doby fire-place outside the body of a log house—breakfast with Bro. P[eirce], sup with Sis. Leonard — have my things put into Clarissa's room who said Prest. Y[oung] wrote her that I would live with her. The brethren] have meet[ing]. P. & T. pres[ent]—the Ep[istle] of Twelve read & sanction'd by the breth[ren]. Monday, October 4. Last night slept in Capt. G [rant's] wagon with Sis. Leonard—breakfast with Sister L[eonard]. Sup[ped] with her & C[lara] in Clara's room—this is the commencement of my living with C[lara]—commence writing to send to W[inter] Q[uarters]. Tuesday, October 5. Finish 11 letters to send to W[inter] Q[uarters] by J. Thorn, who is selling his substance to return with family. Wrote the following to Mrs. Mary Ann Young. May the streams of consolation Ever to your bosom flow; And the bitter draught of sorrow Be no more your lot to know. Blessed be your habitation The abode of peace & rest: Yes, with all that is a blessing I would fondly have you blest. We anticipate the period When you to the Valley come. Haste & leave your Winter Quarters Here you'll find a better home. Wrote the following to Sister Whitney, Kimball, Sarah A. & Helen: [3 stanzas of 4 lines each follow.] Wrote the following & presented it to Br. Grant who took supper with us: ON THE DEATH OF MRS. CAROLINE GRANT [7 stanzas of 4 lines each follow.] Wednesday, October 6. I went to the warm spring thro' the kindness of Sis. J. Y. & Susan Hunter, who took us in the carriage—felt quite refresh'd. Thursday, October 7. I finish'd Sis. P[eirce's] cap—the last of the camp arrive. Capt. Kimball, Weeks & others leave here for Goodyear's, 40 m[ile]s distant [Ogden]. Friday, October 8. A posse of 5 men, the Marshall Higgins at the head, go out to bring back those families [Wicks, Kimball, Babcock, & Gardner] by order of the Council. Saturday, October 9. I am quite ill — Sis. Chase administers to me—we are blest. Sunday, October 10. By decision of Council Ira Miles comes for a bl. [barrel] of flour which is deposited in the Storehouse where Clara & I live. Path [er] Chase objects—goes to see Prest. J[ohn] Smith.—At length a rehearing is propos'd & the excitement ends. A preaching is attended fore & aft[er]noon. I sat in Ellen's door & heard P[arley P.] P[ratt]—din'd with Lorenzo Young's—in the eve[ning] a meeting held to organize according to the Epistle—the posse return'd with a promise from Wicks, Kimball, Babcock & Gardner that they would return to the Fort, The weather is quite warm. Monday. October 11. The case of the flour decided in favor of Ira—Path [er] Chase came with him & said it was given up without his consent, Clara saying she should not give hers—that if they take it they must, &c. The other flour is divided to the family — none for me—several of the Battalion from California arrive—Br. Rosacrans among the number. I made a cap for Sis[ter J John] Young for which she paid me in soap, one pound & 15 ounces—so much I call my own—I now begin once more to be a woman of property. Tuesday, October 12. I din'd & supp'd with Sis. Sessions, some of the Batt[alion] arrive. Wednesday, October 13. Made a cap for Sis. Allen. Br. Grant made me a rich present of tea, for which I pray the Lord to bless him—spent some hours with Sis. Taylor. Sis. J[ohn] Young gave me some fresh meat. Friday, October 15. Vis[it] Ellen & M. C, din'd with them with much happiness. Saturday, October 16. This mor. a hard frost, it is quite cool. I made a cap for Sis. P[eirce]. M[argarett] presented me with the fol[lowing]: TO ELIZA I love thee; and I'll ne'er forget The time we've spent together Thro' many toilsome scenes of wet And storms of windy weather. I love thee: & my heart intwines Around thy noble spirit -- May ev'ry joy on earth be thine. Long life if thou desire it. I love thee: & may thee be blest- May heaven smile upon thee, And may thy health & strength increase And may thy days be many. I love thee: & O may thy life Be one of peace & pleasure; And may thy heart be flll'd with light And blessings without measure. —Margarett Whitesides Sunday, October 17. Too cold for me to sit out at meeting. I feel greatly blest both temporally] & spiritually. Mrs. L. Young brought me more than 1 lb. sugar & Mrs. P[eirce] 1/2 pint of tea & a few doz. crackers for which I praise the Lord. TO MARGARETT I love thee with the tenderness That sisters' spirits love-- I love thee, for thy loveliness Is like to theirs above. I love thee for thy modest worth Is like a diadem -- Thou surely art of noble birth-- Thou art a precious gem. I love thee for thy kindness show'd To me in feeble health. When journeying on a tedious road-- I prize it more than wealth. I love thee and thou shalt be crown 'd With blessings not a few, Joy, peace & plenty shall surround Thy path, like summer dew. The holy Spirit will inspire Thy pure & gen'rous heart And to thy sweet poetic fire Its heav'nly aid impart. Monday, October 18. I had the pleasure of mounting a horse, which was much satisfaction, altho' I lost the anticipated ride to the Spring. In the afternoon Sis. Taylor call'd for me & I accompanied her to visit a sick girl—Eliza Stewart to whom Sis. Smoot, Sessions & I administer'd, Sister T[aylor] & myself having taken tea & pan-cakes with Sis. Smoot. Sis. T[aylor] was call'd away. Tuesday, October 19. I made a loaf of light bread, which I had not done for a long time. Wednesday, October 20. The day is unpleasant, rains & snows. My strength is gaining so that I do quite a wash. I feel very thankful. Br. Scofield inserts a 4-light window on the west side of C[lara]'s house, which is a blessing. I feel truly blest of the Lord. Thursday, Oct. 21. The weather is fine, but cool. I made a large loaf of bread, which C[lara] bak'd. Friday, October 22. C[lara] & I visit Sis. Leonard, after a good supper which we enjoy'd in the spirit of the Lord, we had a spiritual treat, Sis. Sessions] & L[eonard] joining us. Saturday, October 23. Slept with Sis. Sessions], after partaking a treat of pudding 8 milk, breakfast with her and L. after which we call on Sis. Savage. Sis. Wallace administered to E. S. & spend the aft[ernoon] happily with Sis. Noble, blest her, the babe, &c. C[lara] & I sit awhile in Br. P[eirce]'s in the eve. He made me a present of 2 lights of glass for the east side of our house. Sunday, October 24. I went to meeting—Pres. J[ohn] Smith & others impress'd the necessity of the prompt execution of the laws & counsels of the High Council—the necessity of getting grain into the ground—dealing honestly with the Indians, &c. In the eve, Sis. Peirce came in — inquir'd respecting my provisions— I told her I had none, but I felt satisfied that the Lord would open the way for me, that I knew there was an arrangement made, but it had fail'd, &c. She said she was mortified that they could not supply me, but could not. My trust is in God. Monday, October 25. Sis. Noble & Rosacrans spent the aft[ernoon] with us. I am very thankful for the strength I have to work, can do my part of cooking. Br. & Sis. P[eirce] came in the eve. Clara at W.'s wagon. Bro. Peirce talk'd about my provis [ions]. I told him I believ'd the Lord would give me strength to work & I was not asham'd to ask all I see for work for provisions, &c. We could be as economical as anybody. He said, "Do not starve, be economical & when that is gone which you have let us know it." I told him the worst feeling I had was that I was living on Cflaraj's rations, &c. He told me to feel that it is as much my own as hers, & if I did not feel at home, come to his house.[5] Tuesday, October 26. Went with Sis. Sess [ions] who supp'd with us, to visit E. Stewart—found her better. Went to Bro. N[oble]'s. Sis. Smoot spent the eve with us very lively. Wednesday, October 27. After receiving liberally of Sis. N[oble] , who is truly a mother in Israel, with whom I breakfasted & din'd, we spent the afternoon with Sis. Holmes & H. carrying with me a new tin porringer basin & plate, an earthen saucer plate & creamer, also 2 y[ar]ds of cotton drilling, also a hair comb & altho' I am to work for them, I consider them presents & thank the Lord; to which Sis. Holmes added a large saucer & Sis. Houd a spoon. The Lord bless them. In the eve Sis. N[oble] sent 3 pints of beans. Thursday, October 28. Went with Sis. Sessions] to Br. Moore's, din'd & supp'd with them, felt blessed, spent the night with Sis. Whitney -- Friday, October 29. Eat breakfast with her, then went to Br. Love's to engage her sewing, call'd at Br. M.'s m found them much cheer'd by our vis[it]. Sis. M. gave- me a tin cup & spoon, 4 sea biscuits, dried pumpkin, linen for a pocket handkerchief, &c. (to be continued) [1] Although every care and kindness possible under the circumstances were extended to her, the delicate constitution of Mrs. Jedediah M. Grant was not sufficient for the hardships of the journey. She had been failing some time. I was with her much, previous to her death, which occurred so near Salt Lake valley, that by forced drives night and day, her remains were brought through for interment. Not so, however, with her beautiful babe of eight or ten months, [4 months and 14 days old] whose death preceded hers about two weeks [24 days]; it was buried in the desert.—Eliza R. Snow in Women of Mormondom, (Tullidge), p. 335. The babe referred to was Margaret S. Grant, daughter of Jedediah M. and Caroline Grant, born at Winter Quarters, Nebraska, May 19, 1847, and died on Sweetwater, September 2.—Journal History. [2] This day we traveled through brush and timber, but what was still worse, through black dust with which we all were so densely covered that our identities might be questioned. When up the mountain to Bellow's Peak we met Brother John Taylor, who, having reached the valley, was returning to meet that portion of his company now in the rear. Riding on horseback, through the interminable dust, his face was covered with a black mask, and in his happy, jocular way, lest I should compliment him, he hastened to ask me if I had lately seen my face. Our appearance was truly ludicrous. It mattered little to us as we went slash, mash, down the mount, (down Little Mountain) over stumps, trees, roots, ruts, etc., where no one dared to ride who could walk.—Eliza R. Snow in From Kirtland to Salt Lake City, James A. Little. [3] Captain Peirce and most of his ten arrived in the valley a little after ourselves. The general order of travel having been discontinued for a few days past as we neared the valley, small detachments arrived according to circumstances. Many were in before us, and perhaps as many after. We arrived . . . generally enjoying good health. I have never in all my experience known so little sickness and so few deaths among so many people in the same space of time. There have been from six to seven deaths. Two or three were infants and the remainder were mostly, if not all, severely indisposed before they started.—Eliza R. Snow in From Kirtland to Salt Lake City. (Little) p. 144. [4] From Margaret Peirce's life: In the spring of 1847 the president, Brigham Young, most of the Twelve and a picked company of pioneers left us to make a road to some place of refuge for the Saints. We followed in the wake of the pioneers. My father, Robert Peirce, was Captain of the first ten in Willard Snow's Company of fifty, Jedediah M. Grant's 100. Sister Eliza R. Snow, later the poetess of Utah, was invited to take Mary's vacant seat in our carriage, as Mary had died on the way. She said the change to our better accommodations for travel had saved her life. Our companionship during that journey was sweet, and never to be forgotten. We were ever-after fast friends. She wrote some lines to me, while we were traveling. Of course they complimented me very much, and began as follows: "I love thee with a tenderness, as sister spirits love, I love thee, for thy loveliness is like to theirs above; I love thee, for thy modest worth is like a diadem. Thou surely art of noble birth, thou art a precious gem." —Written October 2. 1847, as we entered Salt Lake Valley. [5] At this time Eliza R. Snow was 43 years of age. She must have felt very much alone among this group of 1847 Pioneers. While she had many friends among them, there were no relatives. Her sister, Leonora, and her brother, Lorenzo Snow, with his family, were still at Mount Pisgah where he presided. Brigham Young, not yet president of the church, had taken a special interest in Eliza, had arranged for her to travel with the Peirce family and to live with his wife, Clara, in the Fort. However, it seems that no other arrangement had been made for her provisions and other necessities. Evidently she felt herself in an embarrassing situation.— LeRoi C. Snow |
WHEELS OF TIME
Pioneer wagons have around their mark indelibly Into the westward trail as it approaches Fort Bridger. Along this road moved Eliza R. Snow and her company of Mormon emigres. "THANKFUL FOR OUR DELIVERANCE"
Reproduced here in actual size is the page in the diary on which Eliza R. Snow records her first view of the Salt Lake valley. Abbreviations and cramped penmanship in the interest of space indicate some of the transcription difficulties the original presents. END OF A JOURNEY
Dates on the map are those on which Brigham Young's advance company of pioneers arrived at these points, but the route is the same followed by Eliza R. Snow and described in her diary. |
Snow, LeRoi C. "Eliza R. Snow's "Sketch of My Life"." Improvement Era. March 1944. pg. 142-143.
Eliza R. Snow’s “Sketch of My Life” By LeRoi C. Snow Last summer, Dr. D. Sterling Wheelwright and his wife did much re- J search gathering early western poetry. They spent some time in our church library and then went to the great Bancroft Library of the University of California at Berkeley. In introducing himself, as I recall his conversation with me later, he said the purpose of his visit was to collect the best early western poetry. He was promptly told that there is but one outstanding, early pioneer western poet-—Eliza R. Snow of the Mormon church. To his great surprise, he was then shown a large collection of her writings. In this collection is "A Sketch of My Life," by Eliza R. Snow, written at Mr. Bancroft's request. She assisted him in gathering material for his History of Utah. I believe no one at church headquarters knew anything about this production from my aunt's pen until Dr. Wheelwright told me of it. After some correspondence with Mrs. Eleanor Bancroft, assistant to the director of the Bancroft Library, she kindly had a photostatic copy made of the entire sketch—forty-nine large folio pages, beautifully written in Aunt Eliza's own hand. The manuscript is a valuable addition to the information we already have about this noted Mormon poetess, writer, organizer, and leader among women. Some of the most important experiences in her life are told here for the first time. The sketch, as will be seen from the accompanying photostats, is signed Eliza R. Snow Smith. It is indexed in the Bancroft Library as Eliza Smith, not Snow. Many of the incidents and experiences told in this manuscript are entirely new. We have no other record of them. Others throw new light on facts recorded elsewhere. The following is quoted from the writing: My mother considered a practical knowledge of housekeeping the best and most efficient foundation on which to build a magnificent structure of womanly accomplishments. My parents carefully imprest on the minds of their children, that useful labor is honorable—idleness and waste of time disgraceful and sinful. Book-studies and schooling were ever present. I was partial to poetical works, and when very young frequently made attempts at imitation of the different styles of favorite antes. When quite young, I commenced writing for publication in various journals, which I continued for several years, over assumed signatures—wishing to be useful as a writer, and unknown as an author. I was early taught to respect the Bible, and in Sabbath schools recited much of the New Testament—at times reciting seven of the long chapters in the Gospels, at a lesson. My heart yearned for the gifts and manifestations of which those ancient apostles testified. Sometimes I wished I had lived when Jesus Christ was on the earth, that I might have witnessed the power of God manifested through the Gospel. But alas! the time of such manifestations was gone forever, so said the clergy. I listened to Alexander Campbell with deep interest, and became interested in the ancient Prophets. He and Walter Scott and Sidney Rigdon were frequent visitors at my father's house. They assisted me in my Bible studies. When I heard of Joseph Smith as a Prophet of God revealing the Gospel again, it was what my soul hungered for, but I thought it too good to be true. Soon after this the most impressive testimonies I had ever heard were given by two of the witnesses to the Book of Mormon. Aunt Eliza was baptized by the Prophet Joseph Smith, April 5, 1835. To quote further: In the spring of 1836, I taught a select school for young ladies, and boarded with the Prophet's family. January, 1837, by solicitation, I resided in the family of Joseph Smith, and taught his family school, and had ample opportunity to mark his daily walk and conversation as a Prophet of God. Here she gives an impressive character sketch of Joseph Smith. Then she tells of the Kirtland persecution, the migration to Missouri, of the sufferings and persecution and the move to Quincy, Illinois, where she wrote several articles for the press over the nom-deplume of "A Mormon Girl." This is while the Prophet was in Liberty Jail. When the Saints commenced gathering in Commerce (afterwards Nauvoo), Aunt Eliza accepted an invitation to teach Sidney Rigdon's family school. She tells of the "building and occupation of Nauvoo," of her marriage to the Prophet Joseph Smith, and living with his family in the Mansion House, and of the organization of the Relief Society. The awful tragedy of the martyrdom is vividly pictured. Following an account of the persecutions and sufferings of the Saints in Nauvoo, Aunt Eliza tells of the evacuation of that beautiful city by the Saints and then begins the story of the Pioneer journey across Iowa to Council Bluffs, the building of Winter Quarters, the sojourn there during the winter of 1846 and '47, and the long and difficult journey in 1847 to the Salt Lake Valley. This account is a vivid synopsis of Aunt Eliza's Pioneer Diary which has been appearing in The Improvement Era since March 1943. Following the arrival in the valley, Aunt Eliza writes a brief biography of the rest of her life up to within three years of her death. She writes: Our first winter in the mountains was delightful. Most of us were houseless: and what the result would have been, had that winter been as severe as the succeeding ones, the Lord only knows. The women devoted much time administering to the sick, and in fervent prayer to God in behalf of our brethren. From the Indians we learned the use of the wild "Sego-root." My Indian girl, Sally (whose Indian name was Pidash), became neat and tasteful in dress, although at first she crunched bones like a dog. Soon after our arrival, a tall Liberty-Pole was erected, and from its summit, the "Stars and Stripes" seemed to float with, if possible, more significance than they were wont on eastern breezes. The second season a tragic fate awaited our crops. Precisely corresponding with descriptions of ancient locust raids on the Eastern continent, crickets of enormous size, came down from the mountains, moving in a solid phalanx—taking everything before them. Providence sent a host of sea-gulls to our rescue. Those gulls in large swarms, went through the invading army, swallowing the crickets. As their stomachs filled, they vomited and filled again, until the premises were entirely cleared. A company of men was sent to California for seeds and cuttings. I gave 75c for six or seven little potatoes, all of which I could hold in one hand. I let them out to raise, and in the fall, my half was a half-bushel of beautiful potatoes. Public meetings were held in the "Lord's parlor," i.e., out of doors, plenty of room for new-comers, with sufficient ground-floor to sit or stand upon. These are but disconnected sentences from about thirty pages of the manuscript, following which Aunt Eliza tells of her appointment by President Brigham Young to reorganize the Relief Society of the church in Salt Lake City and then "to assist the bishops to organize branches of the society in their respective wards. Then President Young gave me another mission—to instruct the sisters throughout the church. I could not then form an adequate estimate of the magnitude of the work. In 1876 I was called upon to report the charitable work of Utah women, in the Fair in Philadelphia. ... In 1867 I organized the first Society of Young Ladies, under President Young's direction." Aunt Eliza also gives the first full account we have of the organization of the Primary Associations. "In 1880," she writes, "I traveled one thousand miles by team over jolting rocks and through bedded sand, occasionally camping out at night on long drives." The "Sketch" includes an account of her many publications—some nine volumes, of the promotion of the culture and manufacture of silk, organization of the "Silk Association," organization of the Deseret Hospital, labors in the "House of the Lord," administering to the sick, writing for publication, proofreading, an extensive correspondence and many other activities and labors of love, "all of which," she says, "is certainly worth of a higher tribute of gratitude to God, the Giver of all good, than I am capable of expressing." The "Sketch" will be reproduced in full in the Relief Society Magazine. |
ELIZA R. SNOW, TAKEN FROM A STEEL ENGRAVING
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"Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow." Improvement Era. March 1944. pg. 152-153, 184-185.
Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow Part XIII Life in Salt Lake Valley—1847-48 Saturday, October 30. The young people take a ride to Salt Lake. The day very cold & windy—Br. Wicks, Kimball, &c arrive, having been sent for again & compell'd to come. Br. & Sis. Sessions] sent for me to come to their tent. C[lara] & I went—had a first rate visit & feasted on 2 roasted geese. Sunday, October 31. The weather cold—we have a meet[ing] in the aft[ernoon]. Pres[en]t: Sis. Sess[ions], Leon[ard], Lucina, Chase, Peirce, & J[ohn] Young, also Susanna; Clara being mistress of the house, called on me to preside. We had a refreshing time. Monday, November 1. Very blustering— the dust flying so that we could not see the mountains in the forenoon — a salt rain which was succeeded by a snow storm. Sis. Sess[ions] sups with us, many of the tents having blown down & hers with the rest. She brought me & skeins & a spool of thread & calico to exchange for a piece of domestic gingham. Tuesday, November 2. Attended a meeting of the mothers in Israel at Ellen's, after the close of which E[llen] spoke in the gift of tongues—it was a rich treat. Sis. Sessions] presided. This mor[ning] the ground cover'd with snow. Thursday, November 4. The day fine —we had a meet[ing] of the young ladies in the eve[ning]. C[lara] call'd on me to preside—we had a glorious time. Pres[ent]: Sis. Sess[ions], Holmes, Houd, Margarett Ellen, M. Ellen, Susan N., E. Hendricks. Saturday, November 6. Lawson tried before the H[igh] Council for shooting an ox & is to restore fourfold—this week the Lord has blest me abundantly with strength to labor. Besides most of the cooking, I have made 2 veils for Sis. Moore, 1 for Sis. Noble, done 1 cap for Sis. J[ohn] Y[oung] & 6 for Sis. Sessions]. Sis. M. sent for me 2 quarts meal, a little flour & a stranger sis. sent me 2 quarts beans. Sis. P[eirce] brought us her little bowl full of ginger & Br. P[eirce] let us have a piece of beef. Sunday, November 7. We found the ground cov[ered] with snow 3 inch [es or more—had a delightful meetfing of the little girls. Susan N. & Martha receiv'd the gift of tongues. Sarah H. improv'd upon hers which she spoke in yes [terday] here for the first time — after meet [ing] Sis. Chase blest C [lara] & me. Clara spoke in tongues & blessed us. Praise the Lord, O my soul! Monday, November 8. A meeting of the young ladies at Ellen's this eve. It was truly a time of the outpouring of the spirit of God. Tuesday, November 9. Br. Pfeirce] brought us a mince pie. Wednesday, November 10. Ellen, Mfargarett] Ellen, & A. Benson spent the afternoon with us—the weather is more favorable. Saturday, November 13. Sis. M. & Whitney came here last eve[ning], I told Sis. Whitney it was her privilege to set the pattern in the order of our meetings, in honor of the household to which she belongs & this eve we enjoy'd a precious time in her habitation, the influence of which I trust she will realize perhaps forever. Present: Moth[er] Dilworth, Chase, Sessions], Leonard, Hamilton, &c. This week I have been greatly blest with strength done all the cooking except one meal most of making 2 calico shirts for Porter— did up a cap for Sis. Sessions] & made six buttonholes for Sis. Peirce. Sis. Chase sup'd with us last eve[ning]. Sunday, November 14. This mor[ning] Sis. Moore brought me some beef, which I thank the Lord for, also some sea biscuit. In the eve Sis. Riter sent me a loaf of bread & a teacup of elderberry sauce. The Lord bless her an hundred fold which Sis. Sess[ions], who spent the day with us, gave an interpretation of what I spoke, said was our right to claim for all that we bestow either spiritually or temporally. The day fine. In the eve had an excellent meeting at Br. J[ohn] Young's. Br. Cornogg [was] confirm 'd. Wednesday, November 17. A part of the com[pany] for the southern expedition start today[1]—the day is fine — the ground cover'd with snow. Thursday, November 18. The remainder of the com [pany] start today, making 17 or 18 in number. Sunday, November 21. Art [end] meetfing] at Sis. Ws. D. Kingsbury there; her babe 3 days old. Thursday, November 25. Visited Sis. Love, with Sis. Holmes, Howd, Sess[ions], Meeks, & Noble. After supp[er] we all arose & blest her—had a good time. For some days past the breth[ren] have been plowing and dragging with the ground cover'd with snow. This day they commence baptizing. Friday, November 26. In com[pany] with Br. Noble's fam[ily] Sis. Sess [ions] , &c, I was baptiz'd by Br. Grant who administer'd to perhaps 20. I feel this to be a great blessing from the Lord. In the eve attended meet [ing] at Sis. Whitney's. Sis. Rogers receiv'd the gift of tongues. Sunday, November 28. Meet [ing] at Clara's—she presided. Monday, November 29. Sis. Chase, Sessions], C[lara] & I vis[it] Sis. P[eirce]. A meet[ing] in the eve sev[eral] brethren pres[ent]. Sis. S[essions] presided in the forepart when she was call'd away she confer'd the authority back on Sis. P[eirce] & she bestow'd it on me. The breth[ren] spoke with much approbation. Tuesday, November 30. Vis[it] Ellen— feasted & blessed, &c. in the eve. She presided over her meet[ing]. Wednesday, December 1. The weather seems like spring. Sis. Wilkie, Ellen K[imball] spent the aft. with us. After supp[er], they blest us & were truly filled with the spirit of God. Thursday, December 2. Supp'd with Sis. Higbee, Sis. Sess[ions] with me. A meet[ing] in the eve, over which Sis. H. presided, her hus[band] having given her permission to do so in his absence to Eutaw [Utah] Lake where he, in com[pany] with others, has gone for fish. A young Sis. Allred rec[eive]d the gift of tongues. Br. Luddington present. Friday, December 3. Din'd with Sis. Chase, meeting in the afternoon. Saturday, December 4. Din'd at Br. Meeks' with Sis. Sess[ions], Holmes, Howd, Love, &c, had a glorious time in blessing—3 rec[eive]d the gift of tongues after which Sis. Sessions] & I supp'd with Sis. Scofield. She call'd a meet[ing] in the eve & presided. Sunday, December 5. Attended public meet [ing] outdoors—the day fine. Tuesday, December 7. Vis[ited] at Maj. Russel's with Sis. Chase & Sessions], having spent yesterday at Father Sess [ions']. Snow'd yes[terday], stormy today. Friday, December 10. Vis[ited] at Br. Stratton's with M. Sessions] had a very sociable time—the day very blustering—stayed with Sis. W.—heard that the bill for removing the poor had pass'd in British Parliament. Sunday, December 12. Yest[erday] so blust'ring that I spent the day with Sis. W. This mor[ning] breakfasted with Fath[er] Sess [ions], rather riley times. She & I call'd on Sis. Green hear many reports calculated to discourage the sis[ters] in their efforts for improvement, but all things will tend to the instruction of those that will be profited & hold fast to the principles of righteousness. Att[ended] eve[ning] meet[ing] at J[ohn] Young's. Br. Grant presided. Monday, December 13. Spent the aft & eve at Br. J[ohn] Young's—he having gone to Goodyear's [Miles Goodyear trading post, later Ogden] on business. The weather fine but freezes hard at night. Tuesday, December 14. The Lamanite girl comes to live with us. She was purchas'd last Sunday.[2] Wednesday, December 15. Vis [it] with Sis. Sess[ions], Holmes, Green, &c. At Br. Hickenlooper's, had an interesting time—attended meet[ing] in the eve at the schoolhouse near Br. Green's—a young girl [Elvira] of Sis. Stewart's died this mor[ning], being the first that has sicken'd & died in the valley. Thursday, December 16. Went from Fath[er] Sess[ions'] with her to Br. Noble's where we spent the day agreeably. Friday, December 17. Br. & Sis. Noble supp'd with us—attended meet[ing] in the eve at Capt. Brown's— several breth[ren] pres[en]t—Sis. Wilkie presided. Saturday, December 18. Ellen & Sis. Wilkie with me in the forenoon—we all spent the aft and eve at Br. Peirce's. Sunday, December 19. Attended a very interesting meet[ing] at Br. Whipple's. The Lord's supper was administer'd. Fath[er] & Moth[er] Sess[ions] supp'd with us. Fath[er] C[hase] told me he would open us some flour, when necessary. Monday, December 20. Vis[ited] at Br. Smithson's with Clara. Sis. W. Hunt, &c. In the eve[ning] att[end] meet[ing] at Bish[op] Higbee's—five breth[ren] present. Tuesday, December 21. Vis [it] at Br. Hunt's with Sis. Sess[ions] , Wilkie, Clara, Ellen & Casper. After sup[per] we all arose & bless'd—had a meet[ing] in the eve—Sis. Hunt presided. Wednesday, December 22. Vis[it] at Sis. Brown's with Sis. Wilkie, Sessions], Ellen, Clara, Ostrander, &c. Sis. B frown] presided over her meet[ing] in the eve. Breth[ren] present. Thursday, December 23, At Br. Riter's to dinner with Sis. Peirce, Sessfions], Chase, Hunter, &c. After dinner we arose & bless'd the mistress of the feast. She presided over her guests in the afternoon—we had a good time —Sis. Gates nam'd our meet[ings] "organized parties." In the eve went to Br. J fames] Brown's to hear Parley P. Pratt. He did not come. Gen. [Chas. C] Rich preach'd. Saturday, December 25. Att[ended] Christmas party at Br. L[orenzo] Young's. Pres[en]t Father J[ohn] Young & wife, Fath[er] J[ohn] Smith & wife, Br. [Robert] Peirce & wife, Br. [Jedediah M.] Grant. After a splendid dinner at which we freely & sociably partook of the good things of the earth, Fath[er] [John] Smith bless'd he babe of Sis. Y[oung]. I serv'd as scribe. Br. [Jedediah M.] Grant pray'd & dedicated the house to the Lord, &c. In the eve, Edith had an organiz'd visit of the little girls at Clara's. Moth[er] C[hase] presided. Sunday, December 26. P[arley] P. P[ratt] had an appointment to preach at Br. Riter's but in consequence of a private council on account of the increasing of an insubordinate spirit & a disposition to leave the place, he could not attend. The people met, but as none of the brethren were willing to carry on meeting, Br. R[iter] told his wife she might have a meet[ing] for the sisters — she wish'd me to preside for her. We had a good time, being honor'd with the presence of many brethren. In the eve[ning] att[ended] where P[arley P.] P[ratt] presided—was much edified by him. Monday, December 27. Attended meet[ing] at Br. Willis'—present, Fath[er] J[ohn] Smith—the order of our meetings was laid before him, Go He gave us good instruction—said he would attend with us again—bless'd us, &c. Tuesday, December 28. Vis[ited] at Br. J[acob] Gates with Sis. Sessions], Chase, P[arley] P. Pratt, L[evi] Hancock & others. Br. P[ratt] edified us with the subject of the velocity of the motion of bodies, when surrounded by a refin'd element, &c. Wednesday, December 29. A dinner at Sis. Crisman's, after which we arose & bless'd. A meet[ing] in the eve[ning] , sev[eral] breth[ren] present. Thursday, December 30. Vis fit] Mary Forsgreen, who set a supper table that did honor to her mother Kimball. Friday, December 31. Dinner party at Sis. Howd's. The sis[ters] bless'd her and Sister Holmes. 1848 Saturday, January 1 - A dinner party at Br. Miller's. After dinner, Moth[er] M[iller] arose and express'd her wish for the sis[ters] to proceed in their order of blessing, having call'd them in by the consent of her husband, requested Sis. Sess[ions] to pray. Sis. Sessions] arose & said she was subject to Sis. M[iller] while under her roof & was willing to act in accordance, &c. She pray'd, after which I arose & bless'd Sis. M[iller] & was follow'd by Sis. Holmes, Howd, Sessions, three of Sis. M[iller]'s daughters (two of whom rec[eived] the gift of tongues), Love & Abbott—five brethfren] present, 4 of whom spoke, Br. Jackman remarking that there was more intelligence in the hearts of the sis[ters] that aft. than in the hearts of all the crown'd heads of Europe. By request of his wife, Br. M[iller] dismiss'd the meet[ing]—sent for Clara & spent the eve with Path[er] Sess[ions]. Sunday, January 2. Att[ended] fam[ily] meet[ing] at Br. Whipple's. The Lord's supper administer'd. Monday, January 3. Supp'd with Ellen. Tuesday, January 4. By request, spent the day at Br. Jedediah M. Grant's in assisting with my journal in making up the history of the Camp from Winter Quarters. Wednesday, January 5. Stayed till afternoon at Br. G[rant]'s. At 2 attended] meet[ing] at Bish[op] Higbee's. Wedding in the eve at Br. Henrick's in good style—good order & with good feelings. P[arley] P. P[ratt] officiated Thursday, January 6. Spent the day at Elder Taylor's. He adjusted his Camera Obscura for our amusement. His conversation very interesting—he compar'd our getting along in this kingdom to going down the Missouri River on a raft—where the snags before [ahead] beheld at a distance, seem'd thick & impassable, but a way was found to row past them as they approach'd them one by one & when it became dark he always tied up his raft & lay still till the day dawn'd. The weather is fine—the ground wet. New Year's day, the laws were read & sanction'd for the good order of this place. Saturday, January 8. A young ladies' meeting at Sis. Howd's. Monday, January 10. Din'd at Br. Kotchner's—meet[ing] at 2 o'clock at which Br. K[imball] presided—the weather is like the op'ning of spring. Friday, January 14. Spent the eve at Br. Noble's on the occasion of his birthday. Saturday, January 15. This mor[ning] Vilate D. [Kimball] gives birth to a fine daughter. Friday, January 21. My 44th birthday— stayed at Fath[er] Sessions] last night having visited Sis. Whitney the day before, & this day spent with Sis. Noble—din'd on coffee & pancakes with molasses & sup'd on biscuits made from flour ground in the Valley, butter, tea, dried beef, peach-sauce, sweeten'd fried cakes & custard pie. Lines to Elder Jackman on the Death of His Wife Children weep o'er disappointments But the chosen of the Lord Ne'er should think the dispensations Of his providence are hard. [Six four-line stanzas follow] Saturday, January 29. Cold & snowy —vis[it] Sis. Hamilton. Monday, January 31. Spent the day at Moth[er] Dilworth's, the eve. at Fath[er] Smith's. Friday, February 4. Celebrated Sis. Sessions'] birthday with Br. & Sis. Abbott— in the eve carried a cap to Moth[er] Smith which I had made her yest[erday]. Att[ended] meet[ing] at Br. Savage's—after a hard struggle, we had a good time. Alas that Saints of God can be so full of selfishness as to sacrifice the source of others' happiness to gratify their own enthusiastic notions. Strange that any should seek to shorten the arm that has been extended to lift them out of affliction. Saturday, February 5. Att[ended] meet[ing] at Br. Miller's. Sunday, February 6. The day fine. P[arley] P. P[ratt] preached on the square. To Elder Levi Hancock Farewell Brother Levi! go forth on your journey We'll pray for your peace & prosperity, too, Altho' the long distance is tedious & lonely The Lord God of Joseph will see you safe thro'. [Six four-line stanzas follow] Thursday, February 10. Sisters' pray'r meet[ing] for Father Smith. Friday, February 11. Bish[op] Foutz died this afternoon. Saturday, February 12. Meet[ing] at Br. Hendricks'. Sunday, February 13. Ellen K. gives birth to a son. Tuesday, February 15. Meet[ing] at Br. Allen's. Thursday, February 17. Last night had a fine rain—it seems like spring. Friday, February 18. This mor[ning] the ground is cov[ered] with a sheet of snow. Went to Mrs. M. Smith's, & in com[pany] with Fath[er] & Moth[er] Sessions had my patriarchal blessing. Saturday, February 19. Spent the day at Fath[er] S[essions'], making caps. Sunday, February 20. The 3d time of trial before the High C[ouncil] of the case between Peirce, Brown, Ellsworth & Decker. Sis. Allen died Sat[urday] mor[ning]. Monday, February 21. Att[tended] meet[ing] at W[illard] Snow's — stayed with Sis. Smoot. Tuesday, February 22. One of Br. Snow's twins died—F[ranklin] K. Shed died suddenly, suppos'd by eating poisonous vegetables. Wednesday, February 23. The weather thought to be the coldest we have had in the Valley. I vis[ited] at Br. Abbott's with Sis. Crandall—stayed at Fath[er] Sess[ions']. (To be concluded) [1] The first mission was to California. On the 17th of November. 1847, Eli H. Peirce. Brothers Lathrop. Peacock and fifteen others started with horses and mules on a mission to California for seeds and cuttings and returned on the 10th of May following. [2] Latter-day Saints frequently bought native children to save them from mutilation or death by their hostile Indian captors, later liberating the children. |
Fort, Great Salt Lake City, 1848.
CLARA D. YOUNG, WITH WHOM ELIZA R. SNOW LIVED FOR A TIME AFTER ENTERING THE VALLEY
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Smith, Eliza R. Snow. "Sketch of My Life." Relief Society Magazine. March 1944. pg. 131-136, 192.
Sketch Of My Life[1] ELIZA R. SNOW SMITH I WAS born in Becket, Berkshire Co., Mass. Jan. 21, 1804. My parents were of English descent—their ancestors were among the earliest settlers of New England. My father, Oliver Snow, was a native of Massachusetts—my mother, Rosetta L. Pettibone, of Connecticut. In my early childhood, my parents moved to that section of the State of Ohio bordering on Lake Erie on the North, and the State of Pennsylvania on the East, known as the “Connecticut Western Reserve”, where they purchased land, and settled in Mantua, Portage County. I am the second of seven children —four daughters and three sons: all of whom were strictly disciplined to habits of temperance, honesty, and industry; and our parents extended to us the best educational facilities attainable at that time, without preference to either sex. Although a farmer by occupation, my father performed much public business—officiating in several responsible positions, and, as I was ten years the senior of my eldest brother, so soon as I was competent, he employed me as Secretary in his Office. This experience has proved of great benefit to myself and to others, at different periods of my variegated life . Whether my mother anticipated or originated the wise policy of Queen Victoria, concerning the training of girls, does not matter— at all events, my mother considered a practical knowledge of housekeeping the best, and most efficient foundation on which to build a magnificent structure of womanly accomplishments—that useful knowledge was the most reliable basis of independence. Hence her daughters were early trained to the kitchen and housekeeping in general; then to various kinds of needlework etc. Two years in succession, I drew the prize awarded by the Committee on Manufactures, at the Portage County Fair, for the best manufactured Leghorn. My parents carefully imprest on the minds of their children, that useful labor is honorable—idleness and waste of time disgraceful and sinful; and, with us, book-studies and schooling were ever present-intermingling with every other industry, not omitting music and sing-ing: Thus we never knew what it was to be idle. I mention these items as constituting a key to my subsequent life, showing that the impressions made in childhood and youth give indelible stamp to character. My apparently inherent fondness for reading was encouraged by my parents. I was partial to poetical works, and when very young frequently made attempts at imitation of the different styles of favorite authors. In school I often bothered my teachers by writing my dissertations in rhyme, thereby forcing from them acknowledgements of inability to correct my articles, through lack of poetical talent; and yet, my teachers were uniformly too indulgent to protest against my rhyming practice. On one occasion, my versatility occasioned me intense mortification. I was a small girl in a “Grammatical Institution” of young gentlemen and ladies, taught by a Presbyterian clergyman. Up to this time, the Professor had uniformly read before the school, the compositions written by students; but it so happened that a change was to commence that very day, and each student must read his and her own production. Unfortunately for me, without surmising any change, I had indulged my mirthfulness in a humorous poetical article, written in a peculiar measure, which I copied from a war-song in one of the periodicals of the day—the extreme oddity of the measure rendered the article so exceeding amusing, I was well aware that it would create laughter among the students, and I should break down if I attempted to read it. I could have listened composedly had the Prof, read as I anticipated; but for me to read it before that audience! How could I? I tearfully told the Prof. I could not. But an equitable law must not be sacrificed to my timidity, and the Prof, compassionately helped me out of the dilemma by proposing to excuse me for the present, provided I would come the next morning, before the students assembled, and read it to him; to which I responded with all promptitude. When quite young, I commenced writing for publication in various journals, which I continued for several years, over assumed signatures[2]—wishing to be useful as a writer, and unknown as an author. During the ever memorable contest between Greece and Turkey, I watched with deep interest, the events of the war, and after the terrible destruction, by the Turks, of Missolonghi, I wrote an article en-titled “The Fall of Missolonghi.” Soon after its publication, the deaths of Adams and Jefferson, almost simultaneously occurred, on the Fourth of July [1826] just at the time when, in honor of the glorious day, the nation was chanting songs of Liberty. I was requested, through the Press, to write their requiem, to which I responded, and, to my regret found myself ushered into conspicuity, and not long after, eight volumes of “Godey’s Lady’s Book” were awarded me for a first- prize poem published in one of the journals. That “men are born poets” is a common adage—I was born a patriot—at least, a warm feeling of patriotism inspired my thoughts as evinced in many of the early pro-ductions of my pen. I can even now recollect how, with beating pulse and with fond emotion I listened when but a small child, to narratives of the Revolution. My grandfather on my mother’s side, when fighting for the freedom of his country, was taken prisoner, and confined in a dreary cell, and so scantily fed, that when a fellow prisoner, incarcerated with him, died from exhaustion, he reported him sick, in order to obtain the usual amount furnished for both—keeping him wrapped in his blanket as long as he dared to remain with a dead body. This with many other incidents of Revolutionary sufferings recounted by my grandparents, so deeply impressed my mind, that, as I grew up to womanhood, I fondly cherished a pride for the Flag which so proudly waved o’er the graves of my brave and valiant ancestors. My parents were Baptists in their religious profession—free from bigotry and intolerance, their hospitality was proverbial, and their house a welcome resort for the honorable of all denominations. As a natural result, my acquaintance became extensive. I was early taught to respect the Bible, and in Sabbath Schools recited much of the New Testament —at times reciting seven of the long chapters in the Gospels, at a lesson. When studying those interesting narratives, my mind, many times, was filled with reflections of the deepest type, and my heart yearned for the gifts and manifestations of which those ancient Apostles testified. Sometimes I wished I had lived when Jesus Christ was on the earth, that I might have witnessed the power of God manifested through the Gospel; or that I could see, and listen to a true Prophet of God, through whom He communicated His will to the children of men. But, alas! that day and those blessings had forever gone by! So said the clergy of my own time, and the clergy professed to know. Although my parents adhered to the Baptist creed, they extended to their children the right, and afforded us every opportunity we de-sired, to examine all creeds—to hear and judge—to “prove all things.” Through being conversant with priests and people of different sects, I found them widely differing from each other; and all, more widely differing from that “form of doctrine,” and practice described in the New Testament, with the writings in which, I grew more and more familiar year by year. Feeling that religion was necessary, I sought for it; but, when I asked, like one of old, “What shall I do to be saved?” and was told that I must have a change of heart, and, to obtain it, I must feel myself to be the worst of sinners, and acknowledge the justice of God in consigning me to everlasting torment, the common sense with which God had endowed me, revolted, for I knew I had lived a virtuous and conscientious life, and no consideration could extort from me a confession so absurd. Some told me one thing and some another; but there was no Peter, “endowed from on high.” I heard Alexander Campbell[3] advocate the literal meaning of the Scriptures—listened to him with deep interest—hoped his new life led to a fulness—was baptized, and soon learned that, as well they might, he and his followers disclaimed all authority, and my baptism was of no consequence. During my brief attachment to that church I was deeply interested in the study of the ancient Prophets, in which I was assisted by the erudite A. Campbell, Walter Scott[4] whose acquaintance I made, but more particularly [by] Sidney Rigdon who was a frequent visitor at my father’s house. In the autumn of 1829 I heard of Joseph Smith as a Prophet to whom the Lord was speaking from the heavens; and that a Sacred Record containing a history of the origin of the aborigines of America, was un-earthed. A Prophet of God—the voice of God revealing to man as in former dispensations, was what my soul had hungered for, but could it possibly be true—I considered it a hoax—too good to be true. In the winter of 1830 and ’31, Joseph Smith called at my father’s, and as he sat warming himself, I scrutinized his face as closely as I could without attracting his attention, and decided that his was an honest face. My adopted motto, “prove all things and hold fast that which is good” prompted me to investigate, as incredulous as I was; and the most impressive testimonies I had ever heard were given by two of the witnesses to the Book of Mormon, at the first meeting of the believers in Joseph Smith’s mission, which I attended. On the 5th of April, 1835, I was baptized by a “Mormon” Elder[5], and in the evening of that day, I realized the baptism of the Spirit as sensibly as I did that of the water in the stream. I had retired to bed, and as I was reflecting on the wonderful events transpiring around me, I felt an indescribable, tangible sensation, if I may so call it, commencing at my head and enveloping my person and passing off at my feet, producing inexpressible happiness. Immediately following, I saw a beautiful candle with an unusual long, bright blaze directly over my feet. I sought to know the interpretation, and received the following, “The lamp of intelligence shall be lighted over your path.” I was satisfied. In December I went to Kirtland —was happy in an association with the Saints, fully appreciating their enlarged views and rich intelligence from the fountain of Eternal Truth, through the inspiration of the Most High; and was present on the ever memorable occasion of the Dedication of the Kirtland Temple, (the building of which was commenced in June 1833, and completed in 1836) the first superstructure erected by command of God, and under His immediate direction, for many centuries. In that Temple, after its dedication, I witnessed many manifestations of the power of God. In the spring of 1836, I taught a select school for young ladies, and boarded with the Prophet’s family. At the close of the term I returned to my parental home, where friends and acquaintances flocked around me to enquire about the “strange people” with whom I was associated. I was exceedingly happy in testifying of what I had both seen and heard, until the 1st of Jan. 1837, when I bade a final adieu to the home of my youth, to share the fortunes of the people of God. By solicitation, on my return I resided in the family of Joseph Smith, and taught his family school, and had ample opportunity to mark his “daily walk and conversation,” as a prophet of God; and the more I became acquainted with him, the more I appreciated him as such. His lips ever flowed with instruction and kindness; and, although very forgiving, indulgent, and affectionate in his temperament, when his God-like intuition suggested that the welfare of his brethren, or the interests of the kingdom of God demanded it, no fear of censure—no love of approbation could prevent his severe and cutting rebuke. Though his expansive mind grasped the great plan of salvation and solved the mystic problem of man’s destiny—though he had in his possession keys that unlocked the past and the future with its succession of eternities, in his devotions he was humble as a little child. Previous to the completion of the Temple, I proffered a cash donation to the “Building Committee,” which they very much needed, but insisted on my acceptance of a note of hand for the amount. This, they subsequently redeemed by deeding me a valuable city lot, very favorably situated and under good cultivation containing a house which accommodated two families: one part opportunely made a home for a widowed sister with two children— the other, I rented. This, like many other trivial events in human life, proved to be one of the little hinges on which events of immense weight occasionally turn. My brother Lorenzo[6] was in a Presbyterian College. From his letters I learned that he was investigating their orthodoxy. At length he wrote me, saying, “If you have nothing better to offer than this, then good bye to all religions.” I feared he was approaching the vortex of infidelity, and felt that the only rescue was in the unadulterated Gospel of Jesus Christ, and was anxious to induce him to come where he could see its workings and judge for himself. I wrote him he could have a home with my sister, if he would spend his College vacation with us. He came, and to improve the time he engaged in study under an efficient Hebrew Teacher,[7] who had opened a school for the benefit of the Saints in Kirtland, and while studying a dead language, he also studied the eternal principles of a living faith. He was baptized —ordained an Elder, and is now [1885] one of the Twelve Apostles. Although this belongs to my brother’s history, I consider it one of the events of my life, inasmuch as he has been a great benefit to me, as well as having been energetically useful in the cause which I esteem dearer than my mortal life. (To be continued) [1] The Relief Society General Board is pleased to be the first to publish “Sketch of My Life,” an autobiography of Eliza R. Snow, prepared upon request of Mr. Hubert Howe Bancroft, American publisher and historian. This autobiography was completed in 1885. The original manuscript, written in the beautiful and legible handwriting of Eliza R. Snow, is now in the Bancroft Library, University of California, Berkeley, California. This valuable historical material is made available to Relief Society through courtesy of the Bancroft Library and LeRoi C. Snow, nephew of Eliza R. Snow. Mr. Snow first heard of this life sketch in the fall of 1943. Through his efforts, photostatic copies of the forty-nine large folio pages were obtained, together with publishing privileges. In submitting the manuscript to Relief Society, Mr. Snow included the following statement: “During the early 80’s, Mr. Hubert Howe Bancroft, the historian, spent considerable time in Salt Lake City gathering material for his great library. While here, he became well acquainted with my aunt, Eliza R. Snow, who assisted him in his work. Before leaving Utah, Mr. Bancroft asked Aunt Eliza to write a biographical sketch of her life to add to his collection. This she did, finishing it in 1885. I believe it is her only autobiographical sketch. Some of the most important experiences in her life are related exclusively in this sketch. “Because of Aunt Eliza’s close association with the Relief Society of the Church, I think it very fitting that this important manuscript be published in The Relief Society Magazine. I learned of its existence only very recently and am loaning a photostatic copy to the Relief Society General Board for its publication.” The eventful life of Eliza R. Snow, first secretary and second general president of Relief Society, and one of the most illustrious of our early-day women leaders, is always of interest to Latter-day Saint women, but when told in her own gifted writing style it becomes fascinating. The comments and observations which accompany the recital of events by Sister Snow add charm and value to her story. “Sketch of My Life” will be published, together with illustrations, in six installments, beginning with this issue of the Magazine and concluding in the August issue. [2] Some of Eliza R. Snow’s nom-de-plumes: Narcissa, Pocohontas, Minerva, Tullia, A Mormon Girl. [3] Alexander Campbell (1788-1866) was cofounder with his father, Thomas Campbell, of the church or sect, Disciples of Christ. From 1813 until 1830 they remained nominally Baptists, but there were differences which caused trouble. When Alexander assumed leadership, he advocated a return to scriptural simplicity in organization and doctrine, and his followers in the denomination became known as Reformers. The sect is often referred to as Campbellite. [4] Mr. Walter Scott, a Scotchman by birth, but at this time a resident of Pittsburgh and a dissenter from a Scandinavian church with which he had formerly been associated.—D.H.C. Vol. I, footnote p. 121. [5] “The Prophet Joseph Smith baptized my mother and two sisters, Leonora and Eliza R. Snow, into the Church.”—Statement of President Lorenzo Snow. [6] Fifth president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (1898-1901). [7] Tuesday, 26 [January 1836] Mr. [Joshua] Seixas arrived from Hudson, to teach the Hebrew language, and I attended upon the organizing of the class, for the purpose of receiving lectures upon Hebrew grammar. His hours of instruction are from ten to eleven, a.m., and from two to three, p.m. His instruction pleased me much. I think he will be a help to the class in learning Hebrew.—Prophet Joseph Smith, D.H.C. Vol. II, pp. 385-386. |
REPRODUCTION OF LAST FOLIO PAGE OF "SKETCH OF MY LIFE" SHOWING THE AUTHOR'S SIGNATURE AND THE DATE WHEN COMPLETED.
|
"Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow." Improvement Era. April 1944. pg. 218, 239-241.
Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Part XIV — Conclusion
1848 — Life in the Valley
Thursday, February 24. Din'd at Sis. Shockley's, meet[ing] in the eve[ning]. Fath[er] Pettigrew & Hancock pres[en]t.
Sunday, February 27. A little boy by the name of Oakley killed by a log rolling from a sawpit—put in motion by Indians— Attended meet[ing] at Br. Smoot's. Spent the eve[ning] in company] with Fath[er] 6 Moth[er] Abbott, Sessions], Pettigrew, &c—very interesting indeed. The weath[er] a little moderated. Wrote the following:
On the Death of Franklin K. Shed
The angel of death with a sudden blow
In the season of youth has laid him low.
In a time when the heart's warm springs were ripe
With the hopes 6 the prospects of future life.
[Eight four-line stanzas follow]
Tuesday, March 7. Brethren started for Winter Quarters. Tuesday, March 14. The breth[ren] restart yest[erday] or today, having return'd in consequence of the road being impassable. They calculate to take the Weber Canyon route.
Friday, March 17. Heard that 3 of the 6 who started for W[inter] Quarters] were met by a man from Ft. Johns [Ft. Laramie]—they were in sad condition, having kill'd one of their horses & eaten it—their feet badly frozen—the other 3 had gone on.
Saturday, March 18. Made the 4th cap for Sis. Sessions] for this month. The weather is colder, having chang'd from warm spring. Some gardens put in, get a little frosted.
Sunday, March 19. Snows—wrote the following to Mrs. Eleanor B. Bringhurst:
My heart is full of friendship—but for thee
It has a holier feeling than that name
Identifies. The recollection of
Thy countenance from the first time
My eyes beheld thee—whispers something to
My thought and feeling which I never can
Describe. 'Tis undefinable so long
As mind or understanding shall remain
As circumscrib'd as now. But when I think
Of thee, a thrill of near affinity
O'er spreads my senses & I truly feel
Within my bosom a strong kindred tie
As tho' we'd been associated in
Existence, ere we condescended to
Our present state of being. Lady, yes,
When our small understandings shall expand
And with the recollection of the past
Some knowledge of the future be inspir'd
We'll find a thousand kindred ties that form
Amalgamation's wreath, & which are twin'd
And intertwin'd, combining 6 combin'd
Connecting noble spirits here & there
O'er all the face of earth— from earth to heav'n
And still extending on from world to world
Unto creation's undefin'd extent.
Thus let our hearts expand & let our minds
And acts approximate towards the point
Of true perfection, that we may attain
To an association glorified
On planets more exalted & refin'd--
Among intelligences long since dear.
And let us cultivate the sacred ties
Of love & friendship here that will abide
Time's rugged changes & eternally
Endure.
Wednesday, March 22. Very, very windy.
Thursday, March 23. Att[ended] the funeral of Lorenzo D., son of L[orenzo] & H. Young.
Friday, March 24. This mor[ning] the ground is cover'd with quite a deep snow.
Tuesday, March 28. The storm continues, sometimes rain & then snow, most of the houses are leaking profusely. Ours kept dry till this eve[ning], but pour'd down thro[ugh] the night without intermission.
Wednesday, March 29. Continues to storm till nearly night. C[lara] is at her mother's—Charles & W. breakfast with me while the rain drops in our dishes.
Thursday, March 30. Ch[arles] & W. breakfast and sup with me.
Friday, March 31. Sis. Scofield washes & I get supper. We feel thankful for the storm, altho it causes a deal of work.
Saturday, April 1. The day is fine, I iron'd most of the day.
Wednesday, April 5. Att[ended] meet[ing] at Fath[er] Chase's—Clara came home last night—she is gone today. Does not att[end] meet[ing].
Thursday, April 6. A number of the sisters celebrated the anniversary of the church at Adaline Benson's in prayer for the Saints in Winter Quarters & elsewhere. When I return'd, C[lara] was absent.
Friday, April 7. Spent the afternoon] at Susan H.'s in com[pany] with Sis. P. S. T. H. Br. T. H. & P. spent the eve with us.
Saturday, April 8. Rains & snows all day.
Sunday, April 23. I rode out with Br. & Sis. Higbee, call'd at P[arley] P. P[ratt]'s—he seem'd to be in a very uncomfortable frame of mind.
Thursday, May 4. Has rained successively for 12 days which terminated this mor[ning] in a hard freeze, unfavorable to vegetation which has been growing finely.
Wednesday, May 10. The day beautiful— growing warmer, after several days of frost & cold. Saw Sis. H. at Fath[er] Sessions]. He thinks a com[pany] of horsemen, one of whom is J. Redden is on this side of Laramie. Br. P[eirce] with Sis. P[eirce] & Ellen call'd for me to join them in a carriage ride. When at the distance of perhaps 5 m[ile]s, to our unspeakable joy, we met the California boys, 7 of them, part of the com[pany] having gone to the Bay & part being back with their cattle, which are expected in 3 or 4 weeks. Last Sat[urday] was a Council which excited some feeling. P[arley] P. P[ratt] was chief spokesman.
Monday, May 15. The farmers are getting most of their planting done. Buckwheat, beans, &c, sow'd in April, is kill'd by the frost.
Tuesday, May 16. Last Friday Sister Taylor, Hunter, P. & G. vis [it] us.
Wednesday, May 17. Quite an Indian alarm in consequence of Jim Wanship being kill'd by a Ewtaw [Utah] Indian.
Thursday, May 18. Hancock, Ellsworth & others start with teams to meet the immigrants. Yest[erday] Ellsworth & wife, Scofield & wife, Charles & wife, & J. Green din'd with us. Radishes, lettuce, &c, begin to grace the table.
Sunday, May 21. I breakfasted on bread & butter, radishes, lettuce & peppergrass. Att[ended] a Bishop's Court —case between Peirce & Higgins. Tuesday, May 23. Another com[pany] start with 35 wagons to meet the immigrants.
Sunday, May 28. This morning's frost in unison with the ravages of the crickets for a few days past, produces many sighs & occasionally some long faces with those that for the moment forget that they are Saints.
Saturday, June 10. The crickets continue their destructiveness. Rosacrans, Hunt & others start on horseback to meet the brethren. Thursday, June 15. Frost in some places injures vegetation. Yes[terday] mor[ning] & this mor[ning] I am sick. Sis. Gates ministers to me with kindness. Sis, Taylor spent the afternoon with us—said she supp'd on green peas last eve[ning].
Sunday, June 18. Att[ended] meeting]. Elder Taylor presided very interestingly.
Saturday, July 29. Att[ended] a genteel party at Br. Peirce's on the occasion of Harvey being 21.
Monday, July 31. Started with Sis. Holmes for the mountains.
Saturday, August 5. The mail carriers met us on the Weber River & favor'd me with a letter from Lorenzo & intelligence from the Camp in general. We cross'd the river & went on, occasionally stopping to pick currants until within 4 m[iles] of Cave Rock, when some of our party, (which consisted of Br. Howd, W. Sperry, 3 of Capt. Miller's daughters, D. Miller, Br. Fellers, Br. Wolfe & son, Sis. H. & myself), visited an Indian camp about a m[ile] & Y2 distant, purchas'd some dried meat, & we started our way back to pick currants until the serviceberries should ripen.
After the company had supplied themselves with currants, we came to the Weber where we found 2 families encamp'd and picking serviceb[erries]. Our party stop'd from Mon[day] till Wed[nesday] noon, & started for home in com[pany] with Ellsworth & Hancock who came up with us on Mon[day] from the Platte, & arriv'd in the valley on Fr[iday] the 18th. Wednesday, August 23. Spent the afternoon with Sis. Gates—taken sick in the ev[ening].
Wednesday, September 20. Prest. Young & family arriv'd in the Valley — they supp'd at E. Ellsworth's. I had the pleasure of joining them at the table, tho' scarcely able to sit up—having been sick from the 23rd of Aug[ust].
Monday, October 23. I took up my residence with Br. & Sis. Holmes, Clara having previously gone to live with Lucy, Margaret Peirce having taken the place.
Tuesday, October 24. The ground is whiten'd with snow for the first time.
Saturday, October 28. Att [end] the blessing of E. Bainbridge's child by Prest. Y[oung]. Present: Mrs. Y[oung], Br. & Sis. Kimball & others.
Tuesday, October 31. Call'd to administer to Sis. Ritter's sick child — spent the eve at Margaret's with Sis. Taylor & Smoot—Br. T[aylor] supp'd with us.
Wednesday, November 1. Prest. Y[oung] invited me to a carriage ride with him—we din'd at his house after conversing on some particulars.
Thursday, November 2. Spent the eve very pleasantly at Prest. Young's with most of his wives. The weather cold.
Thursday, November 9. An eve party for the new room.
Sunday, November 12. It has been very pleasant till this mor[ning] which is rainy & snowy a little—the mountains white.
Friday, December 1. The mail arriv'd from Winter Quarters.
Sunday, December 3. Quite cold — letters read publicly—Lyman Wight, Hawes, Miller & others dis fellowship 'd. B[righam] call'd after meeting—I went to L[orenzo's]. Snow'd fast in the evening].
Monday, December 4. Rode to Br. Neff's—the wind blew a gale before we arriv'd. I stayed till Wed[nesday]. The cold intense.
Friday, December 22. Visited at Br. Gibbs.
Saturday, December 23. Commemorated the birth of Joseph Smith. The weather continues cold, with the exception of 2 or 3 pleasant days since the first of the month.
Monday, December 25. Christmas. I stayed at home & read newspapers which Prest. Y[oung] sent me, he having call'd last eve[ning]. Br. F. Richards at that time presented me with a copy of an address written by Lyon.
1849
Sunday, January 7. I gave Prest. Y[oung] copy of address I had written for Br. R.
Wednesday, January 17. I am quite sick-—had a chill last eve [ning].
Thursday, January 18. Rode to L[orenzo's]. Had an interesting time in celebration of their wedding day. The party was yest[erday].
Friday, January 19. Vis [it] with Sis. Whitney at Mary Ann K[imball's]. The weather fine, but continues very cold.
Sunday, January 21. Prest. [Brigham Young] call'd to return the Address.
Saturday, February 17. B [righam] call'd in the mor[ning]. Meetfing] out of doors—has been 2 Sundays previous.
Tuesday, February 20. Went to L [orenzo's] yest[erday], [his wife] Adaline's son [Oliver Goddard Snow b[orn] this mor[ning].
Thursday, February 22. Had an interesting vis [it] with H[eber] C. K[imball].
Sunday, February 25. Very sick yest[erday] & today—B[righam] administer'd to me—felt reliev'd for which I thank the Lord.
Monday, February 26. Had been thawing for several days. The mud drying some—cattle have hard times — B[righam] propos'd a carriage ride to his house in a few days.
Tuesday, February 27. Very snowy.
Thursday, March 1. The storm over —expedition sent against the Eutaws— B[righam's] folks move out of Fort.
Friday, March 2. B[righam] call'd to see me—the trial of Ira Watt in H[igh] Council.
Monday, March 12. The election of civil officers for territorial government.
Friday, March 16. Sunny, like the breaking of winter—storms a little almost every day. Gave B[righam] 30 dollars per month. A colony is getting up for Eutaw [Utah] Valley.
Sunday, March 18. Sis. Rosacrans bade me farewell for California. [She] starts tomorrow.
Tuesday, March 20. The ground cov[ered] with snow again.
Sunday, March 25. Fine weather the last 2 days. The breth[ren] very busy sowing wheat—the meet[ing] remov'd to the Council House in a bower. [First public meeting held on Temple Block.]
Friday, April 13. Amasa [M. Lyman] & Porter R[ockwell] start for California—see them at Bishop W[oolley's]. Rode home with Sis. Kimball last Tuesday. Wed[nesday], B[righam] Y[oung] came for me to visit his family, which he commenc'd organizing for living together. I spent the night & he took me to Br. K[imball’s] the next day—told me to go home from there & he should soon come & move rue up. He call'd this eve[ning] with Louisa, Margaret & Clara.
Saturday, April 14. The eastern mail starts today. Spent the eve[ning] with Christene, acc[ompanied] with Sis. P. W. & Ellen. Sunday, April 15. The day fine—had an interesting preach from Br. K. in the aft[ernoon], Return'd to the Fort in the eve[ning].
Sunday, April 22. Yes[terday] we had a little shower, a little cooler, but the weather has been quite warm. Wednesday the thermometer was at 80 — Th[ursday] at 83—the crickets very thick in places—have done some injury to vegetation during the week. Bridge down over Canyon Creek.
Monday, April 23. I went to Warm Springs with Sis. Noble. Heard of the death of Sarah Ann's child; it died this morfning].
Tuesday, April 24. Received a few lines from Helen.
Thursday, April 26. The first general Fast meeting at one o'clock.
Saturday, April 28. Meet[ing] to organize the "Legion." Heard of an assault on Wanship by a party of Indians].
Friday, May 4. Dr. Bernhisel & others start for the States. Wednesday the 2nd, we had a fine soaking rain. Yest[erday] fast, which is to be attended] every first Thursday in the month. Wrote letter to S[arah] M. K[imball], Frost this mor[ning], Sunday, May 6. Beautiful day rain'd a little last night. All things prospering.
Sunday, May 13. Last Mon[day] I walk'd to Lorenzo's [Snow] & Wed. vis[ited] at Sess[ion's] with Mrs. Kimball, Helen &c, & rode home with them. Ira married.
Sunday, May 20. A heavy rain last Wed[nesday], cloudy & cold since. This mor[ning] frost in places, rains in the afternoon.
Wednesday, May 23. Commenc'd raining yest[erday], a snow today covers the ground—it looks like winter.
Friday, May 25. Yest[erday] the ground was considerably frozen but the mor[ning] being cold & cloudy. The freeze did but little injury to vegetation. Cornelia came for me & I rode to Cottonwood today.
Monday, June 4. Return'd from Cottonwood and stop'd at Lorenzo's.
Monday, June 11. Last Tu[esday] night had a fine rain. Today return'd to Br. Holmes.
Tuesday, June 12. The funeral of Br. Baldwin attended. Some frost this mor[ning].
Saturday, June 16. A trial against Perrigrine Sess [ions] yest[erday] & today— adjourn'd till tomorrow.
Tuesday, June 19. People with pack animals arrive from the States going to California. They expect wagons in 2 or 3 days. This eve[ning] I rode to Prest. Y[oung]'s in carriage.
Thursday, June 21. Return'd home.
Sunday, June 24. Convers'd with a man from Indiana who arriv'd yest[erday] , in 2 months from St. Joseph with ox teams. The weather is now hot. Some green peas.
Wednesday, June 27. This day is 5 years since Joseph's death. I rode in the forenoon with Br. & Sis. Lott. In the afternoon read Joseph's letters to a circle of ladies.
Thursday, June 28. Mov'd to Prest. Y[oung]'s log-row.[1]
Sunday, July 1. Babbitt arriv'd with U.S. Mail.
Wednesday, July 4. Vis[it], in com[pany] with B[righam] & wife & Sis. Call, at Br. Crosby's.
Friday, July 6. Vis [it] at Heber's — read introductory letter of Charles H. Miller to Br. K. by J[acob] B. Backenstos. The description Mr. M[iller] gave of the panic for the gold mines is truly astonishing.
Tuesday, July 24. Celebration of arrival of Pioneers.
Thursday, July 26. Br. Babbitt starts back with mail. I wrote to Lucina, Sis. Hyde & Kimball.
Sunday, July 29. Last eve[ning] vis[ited] Bish[op] Higbee's, Prest. Y[oung], H[eber] C. K[imball] & many others present. This mor[ning] Br. Egan arriv'd with mail.
Wednesday, August 8. Br. Egan's com[pany] arrived.
Thursday, August 16. Vis[ited] with several emigrants at Br. Peirce's. Merchant shops are open in every direction.
(The End)
[1] Up to this time, since her arrival in the valley, Aunt Eliza had been living in President Young's log house in the pioneer fort. I never had heard of President Young's "Log Row," and could not And anyone else who knew anything about it until A. Wm. Lund, assistant church historian and general church recorder, told me that Willard Young said that he had been born in the Log Row, April 30, 1852.
Since reading this reference in the diary. I have found the following statements:
"Some ten rods northwest of the White House stood a row of log cabins where dwelt President Young's other wives, with their children."
—Women of Mormondom, p. 366.
"After President Young's arrival the city began to be built up and he made arrangements for his family to have comfortable homes though, of course, they were primitive in all their appointments. These cottages are yet [1880] referred to as the 'Log Row,' and were situated just above what is known as the Eagle Gate."
— Woman's Exponent, Vol. 9, p. 131.
In Brigham Young's "Deed of Consecration." we find listed in block 89, the "White House," barn, one "row of log houses," etc.
—The Improvement Era, Feb. 1944, p. 81.
With this information I began studying early pictures and have found at least half a dozen which show the "Log Row," one of the best of which appears on page 218.
LeRoi C. Snow
Pioneer Diary of Eliza R. Snow
Part XIV — Conclusion
1848 — Life in the Valley
Thursday, February 24. Din'd at Sis. Shockley's, meet[ing] in the eve[ning]. Fath[er] Pettigrew & Hancock pres[en]t.
Sunday, February 27. A little boy by the name of Oakley killed by a log rolling from a sawpit—put in motion by Indians— Attended meet[ing] at Br. Smoot's. Spent the eve[ning] in company] with Fath[er] 6 Moth[er] Abbott, Sessions], Pettigrew, &c—very interesting indeed. The weath[er] a little moderated. Wrote the following:
On the Death of Franklin K. Shed
The angel of death with a sudden blow
In the season of youth has laid him low.
In a time when the heart's warm springs were ripe
With the hopes 6 the prospects of future life.
[Eight four-line stanzas follow]
Tuesday, March 7. Brethren started for Winter Quarters. Tuesday, March 14. The breth[ren] restart yest[erday] or today, having return'd in consequence of the road being impassable. They calculate to take the Weber Canyon route.
Friday, March 17. Heard that 3 of the 6 who started for W[inter] Quarters] were met by a man from Ft. Johns [Ft. Laramie]—they were in sad condition, having kill'd one of their horses & eaten it—their feet badly frozen—the other 3 had gone on.
Saturday, March 18. Made the 4th cap for Sis. Sessions] for this month. The weather is colder, having chang'd from warm spring. Some gardens put in, get a little frosted.
Sunday, March 19. Snows—wrote the following to Mrs. Eleanor B. Bringhurst:
My heart is full of friendship—but for thee
It has a holier feeling than that name
Identifies. The recollection of
Thy countenance from the first time
My eyes beheld thee—whispers something to
My thought and feeling which I never can
Describe. 'Tis undefinable so long
As mind or understanding shall remain
As circumscrib'd as now. But when I think
Of thee, a thrill of near affinity
O'er spreads my senses & I truly feel
Within my bosom a strong kindred tie
As tho' we'd been associated in
Existence, ere we condescended to
Our present state of being. Lady, yes,
When our small understandings shall expand
And with the recollection of the past
Some knowledge of the future be inspir'd
We'll find a thousand kindred ties that form
Amalgamation's wreath, & which are twin'd
And intertwin'd, combining 6 combin'd
Connecting noble spirits here & there
O'er all the face of earth— from earth to heav'n
And still extending on from world to world
Unto creation's undefin'd extent.
Thus let our hearts expand & let our minds
And acts approximate towards the point
Of true perfection, that we may attain
To an association glorified
On planets more exalted & refin'd--
Among intelligences long since dear.
And let us cultivate the sacred ties
Of love & friendship here that will abide
Time's rugged changes & eternally
Endure.
Wednesday, March 22. Very, very windy.
Thursday, March 23. Att[ended] the funeral of Lorenzo D., son of L[orenzo] & H. Young.
Friday, March 24. This mor[ning] the ground is cover'd with quite a deep snow.
Tuesday, March 28. The storm continues, sometimes rain & then snow, most of the houses are leaking profusely. Ours kept dry till this eve[ning], but pour'd down thro[ugh] the night without intermission.
Wednesday, March 29. Continues to storm till nearly night. C[lara] is at her mother's—Charles & W. breakfast with me while the rain drops in our dishes.
Thursday, March 30. Ch[arles] & W. breakfast and sup with me.
Friday, March 31. Sis. Scofield washes & I get supper. We feel thankful for the storm, altho it causes a deal of work.
Saturday, April 1. The day is fine, I iron'd most of the day.
Wednesday, April 5. Att[ended] meet[ing] at Fath[er] Chase's—Clara came home last night—she is gone today. Does not att[end] meet[ing].
Thursday, April 6. A number of the sisters celebrated the anniversary of the church at Adaline Benson's in prayer for the Saints in Winter Quarters & elsewhere. When I return'd, C[lara] was absent.
Friday, April 7. Spent the afternoon] at Susan H.'s in com[pany] with Sis. P. S. T. H. Br. T. H. & P. spent the eve with us.
Saturday, April 8. Rains & snows all day.
Sunday, April 23. I rode out with Br. & Sis. Higbee, call'd at P[arley] P. P[ratt]'s—he seem'd to be in a very uncomfortable frame of mind.
Thursday, May 4. Has rained successively for 12 days which terminated this mor[ning] in a hard freeze, unfavorable to vegetation which has been growing finely.
Wednesday, May 10. The day beautiful— growing warmer, after several days of frost & cold. Saw Sis. H. at Fath[er] Sessions]. He thinks a com[pany] of horsemen, one of whom is J. Redden is on this side of Laramie. Br. P[eirce] with Sis. P[eirce] & Ellen call'd for me to join them in a carriage ride. When at the distance of perhaps 5 m[ile]s, to our unspeakable joy, we met the California boys, 7 of them, part of the com[pany] having gone to the Bay & part being back with their cattle, which are expected in 3 or 4 weeks. Last Sat[urday] was a Council which excited some feeling. P[arley] P. P[ratt] was chief spokesman.
Monday, May 15. The farmers are getting most of their planting done. Buckwheat, beans, &c, sow'd in April, is kill'd by the frost.
Tuesday, May 16. Last Friday Sister Taylor, Hunter, P. & G. vis [it] us.
Wednesday, May 17. Quite an Indian alarm in consequence of Jim Wanship being kill'd by a Ewtaw [Utah] Indian.
Thursday, May 18. Hancock, Ellsworth & others start with teams to meet the immigrants. Yest[erday] Ellsworth & wife, Scofield & wife, Charles & wife, & J. Green din'd with us. Radishes, lettuce, &c, begin to grace the table.
Sunday, May 21. I breakfasted on bread & butter, radishes, lettuce & peppergrass. Att[ended] a Bishop's Court —case between Peirce & Higgins. Tuesday, May 23. Another com[pany] start with 35 wagons to meet the immigrants.
Sunday, May 28. This morning's frost in unison with the ravages of the crickets for a few days past, produces many sighs & occasionally some long faces with those that for the moment forget that they are Saints.
Saturday, June 10. The crickets continue their destructiveness. Rosacrans, Hunt & others start on horseback to meet the brethren. Thursday, June 15. Frost in some places injures vegetation. Yes[terday] mor[ning] & this mor[ning] I am sick. Sis. Gates ministers to me with kindness. Sis, Taylor spent the afternoon with us—said she supp'd on green peas last eve[ning].
Sunday, June 18. Att[ended] meeting]. Elder Taylor presided very interestingly.
Saturday, July 29. Att[ended] a genteel party at Br. Peirce's on the occasion of Harvey being 21.
Monday, July 31. Started with Sis. Holmes for the mountains.
Saturday, August 5. The mail carriers met us on the Weber River & favor'd me with a letter from Lorenzo & intelligence from the Camp in general. We cross'd the river & went on, occasionally stopping to pick currants until within 4 m[iles] of Cave Rock, when some of our party, (which consisted of Br. Howd, W. Sperry, 3 of Capt. Miller's daughters, D. Miller, Br. Fellers, Br. Wolfe & son, Sis. H. & myself), visited an Indian camp about a m[ile] & Y2 distant, purchas'd some dried meat, & we started our way back to pick currants until the serviceberries should ripen.
After the company had supplied themselves with currants, we came to the Weber where we found 2 families encamp'd and picking serviceb[erries]. Our party stop'd from Mon[day] till Wed[nesday] noon, & started for home in com[pany] with Ellsworth & Hancock who came up with us on Mon[day] from the Platte, & arriv'd in the valley on Fr[iday] the 18th. Wednesday, August 23. Spent the afternoon with Sis. Gates—taken sick in the ev[ening].
Wednesday, September 20. Prest. Young & family arriv'd in the Valley — they supp'd at E. Ellsworth's. I had the pleasure of joining them at the table, tho' scarcely able to sit up—having been sick from the 23rd of Aug[ust].
Monday, October 23. I took up my residence with Br. & Sis. Holmes, Clara having previously gone to live with Lucy, Margaret Peirce having taken the place.
Tuesday, October 24. The ground is whiten'd with snow for the first time.
Saturday, October 28. Att [end] the blessing of E. Bainbridge's child by Prest. Y[oung]. Present: Mrs. Y[oung], Br. & Sis. Kimball & others.
Tuesday, October 31. Call'd to administer to Sis. Ritter's sick child — spent the eve at Margaret's with Sis. Taylor & Smoot—Br. T[aylor] supp'd with us.
Wednesday, November 1. Prest. Y[oung] invited me to a carriage ride with him—we din'd at his house after conversing on some particulars.
Thursday, November 2. Spent the eve very pleasantly at Prest. Young's with most of his wives. The weather cold.
Thursday, November 9. An eve party for the new room.
Sunday, November 12. It has been very pleasant till this mor[ning] which is rainy & snowy a little—the mountains white.
Friday, December 1. The mail arriv'd from Winter Quarters.
Sunday, December 3. Quite cold — letters read publicly—Lyman Wight, Hawes, Miller & others dis fellowship 'd. B[righam] call'd after meeting—I went to L[orenzo's]. Snow'd fast in the evening].
Monday, December 4. Rode to Br. Neff's—the wind blew a gale before we arriv'd. I stayed till Wed[nesday]. The cold intense.
Friday, December 22. Visited at Br. Gibbs.
Saturday, December 23. Commemorated the birth of Joseph Smith. The weather continues cold, with the exception of 2 or 3 pleasant days since the first of the month.
Monday, December 25. Christmas. I stayed at home & read newspapers which Prest. Y[oung] sent me, he having call'd last eve[ning]. Br. F. Richards at that time presented me with a copy of an address written by Lyon.
1849
Sunday, January 7. I gave Prest. Y[oung] copy of address I had written for Br. R.
Wednesday, January 17. I am quite sick-—had a chill last eve [ning].
Thursday, January 18. Rode to L[orenzo's]. Had an interesting time in celebration of their wedding day. The party was yest[erday].
Friday, January 19. Vis [it] with Sis. Whitney at Mary Ann K[imball's]. The weather fine, but continues very cold.
Sunday, January 21. Prest. [Brigham Young] call'd to return the Address.
Saturday, February 17. B [righam] call'd in the mor[ning]. Meetfing] out of doors—has been 2 Sundays previous.
Tuesday, February 20. Went to L [orenzo's] yest[erday], [his wife] Adaline's son [Oliver Goddard Snow b[orn] this mor[ning].
Thursday, February 22. Had an interesting vis [it] with H[eber] C. K[imball].
Sunday, February 25. Very sick yest[erday] & today—B[righam] administer'd to me—felt reliev'd for which I thank the Lord.
Monday, February 26. Had been thawing for several days. The mud drying some—cattle have hard times — B[righam] propos'd a carriage ride to his house in a few days.
Tuesday, February 27. Very snowy.
Thursday, March 1. The storm over —expedition sent against the Eutaws— B[righam's] folks move out of Fort.
Friday, March 2. B[righam] call'd to see me—the trial of Ira Watt in H[igh] Council.
Monday, March 12. The election of civil officers for territorial government.
Friday, March 16. Sunny, like the breaking of winter—storms a little almost every day. Gave B[righam] 30 dollars per month. A colony is getting up for Eutaw [Utah] Valley.
Sunday, March 18. Sis. Rosacrans bade me farewell for California. [She] starts tomorrow.
Tuesday, March 20. The ground cov[ered] with snow again.
Sunday, March 25. Fine weather the last 2 days. The breth[ren] very busy sowing wheat—the meet[ing] remov'd to the Council House in a bower. [First public meeting held on Temple Block.]
Friday, April 13. Amasa [M. Lyman] & Porter R[ockwell] start for California—see them at Bishop W[oolley's]. Rode home with Sis. Kimball last Tuesday. Wed[nesday], B[righam] Y[oung] came for me to visit his family, which he commenc'd organizing for living together. I spent the night & he took me to Br. K[imball’s] the next day—told me to go home from there & he should soon come & move rue up. He call'd this eve[ning] with Louisa, Margaret & Clara.
Saturday, April 14. The eastern mail starts today. Spent the eve[ning] with Christene, acc[ompanied] with Sis. P. W. & Ellen. Sunday, April 15. The day fine—had an interesting preach from Br. K. in the aft[ernoon], Return'd to the Fort in the eve[ning].
Sunday, April 22. Yes[terday] we had a little shower, a little cooler, but the weather has been quite warm. Wednesday the thermometer was at 80 — Th[ursday] at 83—the crickets very thick in places—have done some injury to vegetation during the week. Bridge down over Canyon Creek.
Monday, April 23. I went to Warm Springs with Sis. Noble. Heard of the death of Sarah Ann's child; it died this morfning].
Tuesday, April 24. Received a few lines from Helen.
Thursday, April 26. The first general Fast meeting at one o'clock.
Saturday, April 28. Meet[ing] to organize the "Legion." Heard of an assault on Wanship by a party of Indians].
Friday, May 4. Dr. Bernhisel & others start for the States. Wednesday the 2nd, we had a fine soaking rain. Yest[erday] fast, which is to be attended] every first Thursday in the month. Wrote letter to S[arah] M. K[imball], Frost this mor[ning], Sunday, May 6. Beautiful day rain'd a little last night. All things prospering.
Sunday, May 13. Last Mon[day] I walk'd to Lorenzo's [Snow] & Wed. vis[ited] at Sess[ion's] with Mrs. Kimball, Helen &c, & rode home with them. Ira married.
Sunday, May 20. A heavy rain last Wed[nesday], cloudy & cold since. This mor[ning] frost in places, rains in the afternoon.
Wednesday, May 23. Commenc'd raining yest[erday], a snow today covers the ground—it looks like winter.
Friday, May 25. Yest[erday] the ground was considerably frozen but the mor[ning] being cold & cloudy. The freeze did but little injury to vegetation. Cornelia came for me & I rode to Cottonwood today.
Monday, June 4. Return'd from Cottonwood and stop'd at Lorenzo's.
Monday, June 11. Last Tu[esday] night had a fine rain. Today return'd to Br. Holmes.
Tuesday, June 12. The funeral of Br. Baldwin attended. Some frost this mor[ning].
Saturday, June 16. A trial against Perrigrine Sess [ions] yest[erday] & today— adjourn'd till tomorrow.
Tuesday, June 19. People with pack animals arrive from the States going to California. They expect wagons in 2 or 3 days. This eve[ning] I rode to Prest. Y[oung]'s in carriage.
Thursday, June 21. Return'd home.
Sunday, June 24. Convers'd with a man from Indiana who arriv'd yest[erday] , in 2 months from St. Joseph with ox teams. The weather is now hot. Some green peas.
Wednesday, June 27. This day is 5 years since Joseph's death. I rode in the forenoon with Br. & Sis. Lott. In the afternoon read Joseph's letters to a circle of ladies.
Thursday, June 28. Mov'd to Prest. Y[oung]'s log-row.[1]
Sunday, July 1. Babbitt arriv'd with U.S. Mail.
Wednesday, July 4. Vis[it], in com[pany] with B[righam] & wife & Sis. Call, at Br. Crosby's.
Friday, July 6. Vis [it] at Heber's — read introductory letter of Charles H. Miller to Br. K. by J[acob] B. Backenstos. The description Mr. M[iller] gave of the panic for the gold mines is truly astonishing.
Tuesday, July 24. Celebration of arrival of Pioneers.
Thursday, July 26. Br. Babbitt starts back with mail. I wrote to Lucina, Sis. Hyde & Kimball.
Sunday, July 29. Last eve[ning] vis[ited] Bish[op] Higbee's, Prest. Y[oung], H[eber] C. K[imball] & many others present. This mor[ning] Br. Egan arriv'd with mail.
Wednesday, August 8. Br. Egan's com[pany] arrived.
Thursday, August 16. Vis[ited] with several emigrants at Br. Peirce's. Merchant shops are open in every direction.
(The End)
[1] Up to this time, since her arrival in the valley, Aunt Eliza had been living in President Young's log house in the pioneer fort. I never had heard of President Young's "Log Row," and could not And anyone else who knew anything about it until A. Wm. Lund, assistant church historian and general church recorder, told me that Willard Young said that he had been born in the Log Row, April 30, 1852.
Since reading this reference in the diary. I have found the following statements:
"Some ten rods northwest of the White House stood a row of log cabins where dwelt President Young's other wives, with their children."
—Women of Mormondom, p. 366.
"After President Young's arrival the city began to be built up and he made arrangements for his family to have comfortable homes though, of course, they were primitive in all their appointments. These cottages are yet [1880] referred to as the 'Log Row,' and were situated just above what is known as the Eagle Gate."
— Woman's Exponent, Vol. 9, p. 131.
In Brigham Young's "Deed of Consecration." we find listed in block 89, the "White House," barn, one "row of log houses," etc.
—The Improvement Era, Feb. 1944, p. 81.
With this information I began studying early pictures and have found at least half a dozen which show the "Log Row," one of the best of which appears on page 218.
LeRoi C. Snow
Smith, Eliza R. Snow. "Sketch of My Life." Relief Society Magazine. April 1944. pg. 207-214.
Sketch Of My Life Eliza R. Snow Smith CHAPTER II IN the Spring of 1838, when through persecution, the Saints were compelled to leave Kirtland, with my father’s family I moved to Adam-ondi-Ahman[1], Daviess Co. Mo., where we arrived on, or about the last of July. But our stay was short—a fierce mob violence, with which all departments of the State authorities, civil, judicial, and military participated, so soon manifested itself, that before the year closed, in submission to the Governor’s order, we moved from Daviess Co., to Caldwell; and, on the 5th of March, started enroute for Illinois. A few days before leaving Adam- ondi-Ahman, the former owner of the house, for which my father had paid in full, came in, and impudently enquired how soon we should be out of it. My American blood warmed to the temperature of an insulted, free-born American citizen as I looked at him and thought, poor man; you little know with whom you have to deal—God lives. He certainly over-ruled in that instance, for the original owners of two homesteads which my father paid for, although they had made arrangements for mobbing us, previous to the purchase, never regained possession. The Governor gave us ten days’ notice to prepare and leave Daviess County, and in the meantime, sub-servient to his order a posse of Militia was to remain in the vicinity, ostensibly to protect the Saints; but we could not decide which was most to be dreaded, the Militia or the mob—no property was safe within the reach of either. It was December and very cold when we left our home, and, after assisting in the morning arrangements for the journey, in order to warm my aching feet, I started on foot and walked until the teams came up. When about two miles out, I met one of the so-called Militia who accosted me with, “Well, I think this will cure you of your faith.” Looking him squarely in the eye, I replied, “No, Sir, it will take more than this to cure me of my faith.” His countenance dropped, and he responded, “I must confess you are a better soldier than I am.” I passed on, thinking that, unless he was above the average of his fellows in that section, I was not complimented by his confession. In recording the following incident, I wish to perpetuate the remembrance of the only expression of sympathy which, to my knowledge, was uttered by the former citizens of Mo. in our behalf, from the commencement of our persecutions in that State, till our final expulsion. On our outward journey, after a night of rain, which changed to snow and covered the ground in the morning, we thawed our tent which was stiffly frozen, by holding and turning it alternately before a blazing fire, until it could be folded for packing, and, while we all shivered and shook with cold, we started. As the sun mounted upwards the snow melted and increased the depth of the mud, with which the road before us was previously amply stocked, and rendered travel almost impossible. The teams were puffing and the wagons dragging so heavily that we were all on foot, tugging along as best we could, when an elderly gentleman on horseback overtook us, and after riding along-side for some time, apparently absorbed in deep thought, as he (after enquiring who we were) with apparent interest, watched women and girls, men and boys, teams and wagons slowly winding their way up a long hill, enroute from our only earthly homes, with no prospect before us, he said emphatically, “If I were in your places, I should want the Governor of the State hitched at the head of my teams.” I afterwards remarked to my father that I had not heard as sensible remark from a stranger since entering the State. In my memory, from that time to this, I have cherished a filial respect for that gentleman, and fancy I see a striking resemblance of him in the portrait of Sir Von Humboldt, now hanging on the wall in front of me. We arrived in Quincy, Illinois, where many of the exiled Saints had preceded us, and all were received with generous hospitality. My father moved to one of the northern Counties, I stopped in Quincy, and while there wrote for the Press several articles, for which I received many encomiums, with urgent solicitations for effusions, which, probably were elicited by the fact that my articles were productions from the pen of a “Mormon girl.” From Quincy, my sister, her two daughters and I went to Lima, Han-cock Co., where we found a temporary home under the roof of an old veteran of the Revolution, who, with his family, treated us with much kindness; although through ignorance of the character of the Saints, their feelings were like gall towards them, which we knew to be the result of misrepresentation. Occupying as we did, an upper room with a slight flooring between us and the occupants below, we were obliged to hear bitter aspersions against those whom we knew to be the best people on earth. Frequently our host, after vilely traducing our people, of whom he knew nothing, suddenly changed his tone and boasted of the “two noble women” he had in his house—“no better women ever lived,” etc., which he would have said of the “Mormons” generally, had he made their acquaintance. We were pilgrims, and for the time had to submit to circumstances. Almost anything innocent is preferable to dependence—with these people we could earn our support at the tailoring business: thanks to my mother’s industrial training, for which, even now I bless her dear memory. IN May, the Saints commenced gathering in Commerce, (afterwards Nauvoo) and on the 16th of July following, I left our kind host and hostess, much to their regret, Elder Rigdon having sent for me to teach his family school in Commerce, and, although I regretted the separation from my sister, I was truly thankful to be again associated with the body of the Church. The location of the city of Nauvoo was beautiful, but the climate was so unhealthy that several efforts had been made to build it up, and as many times abandoned. It seemed to have been held in reserve to meet the occasion, for none but Saints full of faith, and trusting in the power of God, could have established that city. Through the blessings of our Heavenly Father on the indefatigable exertions of the Saints, it was not long before Nauvoo excited the envy and jealousy of many of the adjacent inhabitants, and, as “the accuser of the brethren” never sleeps, we had many difficulties to meet which ultimately culminated in the most bitter persecution. To narrate what transpired within the seven years, in which we built and occupied Nauvoo, the beautiful, would fill many volumes. That is a history that never will, and never can “repeat itself.” Some of the most important events of my life transpired within that brief term, in which I was married, and in which my husband, Joseph Smith, the Prophet of God, sealed his testimony with his blood! * * * * When in March, 1842, Joseph Smith, assisted by some of the leading Elders, organized the “Female Relief Society of Nauvoo,” I was present, and was appointed Secretary of the Institution. In the following summer, I accompanied Mrs. Emma Smith, the President, to Quincy, Illinois, with a Petition signed by several hundred members of the Society, praying His Excellency, Governor Carlin, for protection from illegal suits then pending against the Prophet, Joseph Smith. We met with a very cordial reception-presented our petition, which the Governor received with manifestations of sympathetic sincerity, pledging his word and honor that he would use his influence to protect Mr. Smith, whose innocence he fully acknowledged. But alas! soon after our return, we learned that at the time of our visit, and while making protestations of friendship, the wily Governor was secretly conniving with the basest of men to destroy our leaders. The awful tragedy of the 27th of June, 1844, is a livid, burning, scathing stain on our national escutcheon. To look upon the noble, lifeless forms of those brothers, Joseph and Hyrum Smith, lying side by side, after having been brought home from Carthage, where they had been slaughtered in their manhood and in their innocence, was a sight that might well appall the heart of a true American citizen: but, what it was for loving wives and children, the loyal heart may feel, but let language keep silence! This scene occurred in America, “The land of the free, and the home of the brave,” to which our ancestors fled for religious freedom— where the “Dear old Flag” yet waves; and under which not one effort has been made by the authorities of either County, State, or General Government, to bring the perpetrators of that notorious murder to justice. The expulsion of the Saints from the State of Ill., soon followed after the deaths of the Prophet and Patriarch. On my first arrival in Nauvoo, (then Commerce) I resided in the family of Elder Rigdon—taught his family school—was with his mother (who lived with him) at her death —attended her funeral on the 6th of Oct., the first Conference held in Ill. In the following winter my father came for me—I went home with him—found my mother suffering from hardships and exposures through mobocracy. The next Spring my father moved to Laharpe, 30 ms. from Nauvoo—remained there one year, then moved to Nauvoo. My home was with the family until father exchanged his home for one in Walnut Grove, 75 ms. from Nauvoo; a settlement where a Stake of the Church had been appointed. After my parents moved, I lived with the Prophet’s first wife, and taught a school of 65 scholars. Before its close, I went and boarded with brother and sister Holmes for a short time, and previous to the exodus of the Saints from Ill. I lived in the family of Col. Stephen Markham. Much of the winter of 1845-6 I spent officiating in the Temple— the upper part of which was sufficiently completed for administering the sacred ordinances of the holy Priesthood as God had revealed them. ON the 13th of Feb. 1846, with Sister Markham, I crossed the Mississippi on a ferry-boat, and joined the camp of the Saints, three miles from the river, where we found wood and water in abundance. I was informed that on the first night of the encampment of those who preceded us, nine children were ushered into the world; and from that time, as we journeyed, mothers gave birth to offspring under almost every variety of circumstances except those to which they had been accustomed—in tents and wagons— in rain-storms, and in snow-storms. I heard of one birth occurring in the rude shelter of a hut—the sides formed of blankets fastened to poles stuck in the ground—a bark roof, through which the rain was dripping: Kind sisters held dishes and caught the water—thus protecting the mother and her little darling from a shower-bath on its entrance to the stage of human existence. Had not this, as well as many others, been a case of necessity, no other result than death could have been anticipated, to both mother and child. Let it be remembered that the mothers referred to, were not savages, accustomed to roam the forest and brave the storm and tempest— those who had never known the comforts and delicacies of civilization and refinement. They were not those who, in the wilds of nature, nursed their offspring amid reeds and rushes, or in the obscure recesses of rocky caverns. Most of them were born and educated in the Eastern States—had there embraced the Gospel as taught by Jesus and His Apostles, and for its sake had gathered with the Saints; and under trying circumstances, assisted by their faith, energies and patience in making Nauvoo what its name indicates, “The Beautiful.” There they had lovely homes—decorated with flowers, and enriched with choice fruit trees, just beginning to yield plentifully. To these homes, without lease or sale, they had bid a final adieu, and, with what little of their substance could be packed into one, two, and perhaps in a few instances, three wagons, had started out desert-ward, for where? To this question, the only response at that time was, God knows. From the 13th to the 18th several snow-storms occurred, and the cold was so intense as to bridge the Mississippi river sufficiently for the passage of heavily loaded wagons. The men built huge fires, and when not necessarily otherwise engaged, warmed themselves around the crackling blaze. The women, when the labors of cooking and other etceteras did not prompt them outside, huddled with their small children, into wagons and carriages for protection from chilling breezes. My dormitory, sitting-room, writing office, and frequently dining room, was the buggy in which Mrs. Markham, her little son, David, and I rode. With the best I could do for myself, I frosted my feet which occasioned me considerable inconvenience for several weeks. On the 28th we moved out. Previous to breaking camp, (all who designed traveling in the first company had crossed the river, numbering from six to seven hundred), they were partially organized into tens, fifties, and hundreds, which was afterwards completed for the order of traveling; with Captains, Pioneers, Superintendents, and Commissioners, to each hundred, and Captains over each fifty, and ten. We traveled four miles and put up for the night when the prospect, at first sight was dreary enough. It was nearly sun-set—very cold, with four or five inches of snow on the ground: but with brave hearts, strong hands, and plenty of spades and shovels, the men removed the snow, and suddenly transformed the bleak desert into a joyous town of cloth houses with log-heap fires, and a multitude of cheerful inhabitants. The next day the Nauvoo Band came up, and its stirring strains were wafted abroad and reechoed on the responsive breeze. From time to time, companies of men either volunteered or were de-tailed from the journeying camps, and by going off the route, found jobs of work, and obtained food for the people and grain for the teams. As we passed through a town on the Des Moines, the inhabitants manifested as much curiosity as though viewing a menagerie of wild beasts. Their levity and apparent heartlessness was proof of profound ignorance. How little did they comprehend our movement and the results which the Almighty had in view! On the 2nd of March we again moved forward, and our encampment this night may truly be recorded as a miracle on natural principles, and yet, very strikingly peculiar—a city reared in a few hours, and everything in operation that living required, and many additional ones, which, if not extravagances were conveniences. The next day, great numbers of people in companies were in from the adjacent country patrolling our anonymous streets, viewing our unique city, with astonishment visible in their countenances. In the evening sister Markham and I took a stroll abroad, and in the absence of street names, and tent Nos. we lost our way, and had to be piloted within sight of our own domicile. At this point Col. Markham exchanged our buggy for a lumber wagon, in order to assist others in carrying freight; and in performing this act of generosity, so filled the wagon, as to give us barely room to sit in front. This wagon, with bags piled on bags, was my sleeping room —the family lodged in other wagons and in a tent. Instead of comfort, necessity was the order of the move, and the best faculty for adaptation to circumstances, the best inheritance. We were thankful to be so well off—fleeing from persecution, we were in pursuit of a land of peace. The mob in the vicinity of Nauvoo, knowing that I wielded the pen, had threatened my life, lest, as they said, I should write about the tragic scene at Carthage. Although I had neither fear nor dread of death, I felt as I expressed in the following: LET US GO * * * * Let us go—let us go to the wilds for a home Where the wolf and the roe and the buffalo roam-- Where beneath our own vines, we in peace, may enjoy The fruits of our labors, with none to annoy. Let us go—let us go where our Rights are secure-- Where the waters are clear and the atmosphere pure-- Where the hand of oppression has never been felt-- Where the blood of the prophets has never been spilt. Let us go—let us go where the Kingdom of God Will be seen in its Order extending abroad-- Where the Priesthood of heaven, unopposed will go forth In the regeneration of man and of earth. * * * * When we started again, Mrs. M. [Markham] and I were seated on a chest with bran-kettle and soap-box for our foot-stools, and were happy, and well might be, in comparison with some of our sisters who walked all day, rain or shine, and at night prepared supper for their families, with no sheltering tents; and then made their beds in, and under wagons that contained their earthly all. Frequently with intense sympathy and admiration I watched the mother when, forgetful of her own fatigue and destitution, she took unwearied pains to fix up in the most palatable form the allotted portion (most of the time we were rationed) of food, and as she dealt it out, was cheering the hearts of her children, while, as I truly believed, her own was lifted to God in fervent prayer that their lives might be preserved, and, above all, that they might honor Him in the religion for which she was an exile from the home once sacred to her, for the sake of those precious ones which God had committed to her care. (To be continued) [1] See Doctrine and Covenants, Sec. 116. |
ADAM-ONDI-AHMAN
Thirty acres of land, including the whole of this hill on which are the ruins of the altar of Adam, have recently been purchased by the Church. THE OLD SMITH HOME AT NAUVOO
NAUVOO MANSION—LAST HOME OF THE PROPHET JOSEPH SMITH
|
Smith, Eliza R. Snow. "Sketch of My Life." Relief Society Magazine. May 1944. pg. 272-278.
Sketch Of My Life Eliza R. Snow Smith CHAPTER III WE were traveling in the season, significantly “between hay and grass,” and the teams feeding on browse obtained by felling trees, wasted in flesh and had but little strength; and at times, it was painful to see the poor creatures straining every joint and ligature—doing their best, and looking the very picture of discouragement. When crossing the low lands, where Spring rains had soaked the mellow soil, they frequently stalled on level ground, and we could move only by coupling teams, which made very slow progress. From the effects of chills and fever, I had not strength to walk, or I would not have been guilty of riding after those half-famished animals. Most of the time I was obliged to ride, no matter how dangerous it might be on roads formed by the hand of nature. In some instances, a cow and ox— and frequently two cows were yoked together: and these poor animals, after helping draw wagons through the day, at night furnished all the milk with which the family was supplied; but the yield was a small pittance, especially when divided among a number of tired, hungry, houseless, little ones. It would require a painter’s skill and pencil to represent an encampment where we stopped, as we frequently did, to give the jaded teams a chance to recuperate, and the people to straighten up matters and things generally. Here is a slight touch from my journal. “Our town of yesterday has grown to a city—laid out in a half-hollow square, fronting East and South on a beautiful level, on one side an almost perpendicular, and on the other, a gradual descent into a deep ravine, which defines it on the North and West. At nine o’clock this morning, I noticed a Blacksmith’s shop in full blast, and everything, everywhere, indicating local industries of real life. Only the sick are idle. Not a stove or cooking utensil, but is called into requisition; while tubs and wash-boards, etc., are taken one-half mile distant, where washing is done by the side of a stream of water. I join Mrs. M. [Markham] in the washing department, and get a buggy ride to the scene of action, as a spectator, where the boys have the fire in waiting: while others of our mess (21 in number) stop in the city and do the cooking arrangements; and for our dinner, send us a rich portion of their immense potpie, made of rabbits, squirrels, pheasants, quails, prairie chickens, etc., etc., trophies of the success of our hunters, of whom, each Division has its quota. Thus, from time to time we are supplied with fresh meat.” I will now attempt a de-scription of a prairie fire, and then, as I am writing merely “a sketch,” I shall pass hastily forward. At our encampment at the head waters of the Grand River, we saw a fire in the distance coming rapidly towards us with tremendous fury. Our men turned out enmasse, and set fires to burn a broad extent around our premises, for the wind was so strong, that, without this precaution, the fire would have swept over us almost instantaneously. So soon as we felt secured, we gazed with admiration and astonishment at the terrific grandeur of the bewildering scene before us, as the devouring element rolled in awful volumes over the tall, dry grass, interspersed with leafless trees as dry as tinder—the flames rising at times, to the height of forty or fifty feet, and shooting, as if drawn by powerful attraction, from tree to tree. I had often read and listened to descriptions of “Prairies on fire,” with the dangers to which travelers are ex-posed in consequence, and had thought those accounts over-drawn, but now I can say in truth, that the reality “beggars all description.” I now pass hurriedly over the founding of the settlement called Pisgah—the unjust requisition of Government in calling out the Mormon Battalion and consequent hard-ships devolving on the women and children, as they have long since be-come subjects of history. When we left Pisgah, Col. M. [Markham] was minus one teamster, and Mrs. M. [Markham] to avoid having another to cook for, proposed to drive the gentle, well- trained yoke of oxen which was selected for the wagon she and I were to occupy; but soon after we started, she was taken quite ill, and of course, the driving fell to me. Had it been a horse team, I should have been amply qualified, but driving oxen was entirely new business. However, I took the whip and very soon learned to haw and gee, and acquitted myself very well in driving most of the way to “Winter Quarters” (now Florence) the cattle being so pliable that I could sit and drive. At the best, I was often much fatigued, the family at times having so much sickness, that I had to cook as well as nurse, and I was truly thankful for strength to do for those from whom I received much kindness. On the 2d we arrived at our “Winter Quarters” where we joined the general Camp. From exposure and hardship I was taken sick soon after with a slow fever, and as I lay sick in the wagon, where my bed was ex-posed to heavy rains, and, at times, unavoidably wet from head to foot, I realized that I was near the gate of death; but in this suffering and exposed condition, I did not feel that God had forsaken me—my trust was in Him, and His power preserved me. While passing through this trying scene, I not only realized the goodness of God, but experienced many kindnesses from my sisters, whose names are not only written in my Journal, but also are engraven on my heart; and I never shall forget the unceasing kindness of brother and sister Markham, with whom I journeyed from Nauvoo to this winter stopping-point. At the time of which I am writing, many were sick around me, and under the circumstances, no one could be properly cared for. Although exposed to Autumnal rains in the wagon, worse was yet to come. On the 28th of October, a company starting out for supplies, required the wagon which sister M. [Markham] and I occupied: and the house we moved into, having been built of logs, with openings only partly chinked and mudded—the wind cold and blustering, found plenty of crevices on the sides through which to play; while the roof was shingled only on one side, with a tent-cloth thrown over the other: and besides, it was minus a chimney, and when a fire was kindled, the smoke so filled the house, that a breathing apparatus was of little use, and the fire was put outside. Mrs. M. [Markham] had partially recovered from her sickness, but was feeble—I was not able to sit up long, and under the circumstances, having to dispense with a fire, I had to keep my bed. The men had so much to do in preparing for winter, our circum-stances were much the same—cooking done out of doors, etc., until past the middle of November, when our chimney was built — the house chinked, and other improvements added, which we were prepared to appreciate. About the last of December I received the sad news of the death of my mother, in which, although ac-companied with a feeling of heavy bereavement, I realized a sweet, soothing sensation in the thought that she was free from all earthly ills. She had lived to a good age, and been a patient participator in the scenes of suffering through the persecutions of the Saints. Her mortal remains sleep in peace—her grave, and that of my father, whose death preceded hers less than a year, are side by side, in Walnut Grove, Knox Co., Illinois. The privations, hardships, and exposures to which we had been subjected, combined with the unhealthiness of the climate of our Winter-Quarters, caused much sickness, and sickness increased destitution: but in the midst of all, we enjoyed much of the Spirit of God, and many seasons of refreshing from His presence. My life, as well as the lives of many others, was preserved by the power of God, through faith; and not on natural principles, as comprehended by man. Our extensive encampment was divided into Wards, and so organized that meetings were held in each Ward. An order was introduced and cheerfully carried into effect, that each able-bodied man, should ■ either give the labor of each tenth day, or contribute an equivalent, for the support of the destitute, and to aid those families whose husbands and sons were in the Battalion, and those who were “widows indeed.” On the 7th of April, 1847, President Brigham Young with his band of pioneer braves, started in search of a home for the Saints, in the mountains of the desert. The first emigrant company start- ad early in June. Brother and sister Robert Pierce kindly offered me a seat in their carriage, which was left vacant by the death of their daughter Mary, a promising young lady, who had fallen a victim to the sickly climate; and on the 12th of June, we bade Goodbye to many dear friends, and again started on pilgrimage. Previous to starting for an indefinite point—probably one thousand miles into the interior, and from all supplies, the idea of an outfit was a very important consideration. Some of our brethren had purchased and brought from St. Louis a few articles of Merchandise, which supplied our local Store with some of the necessaries and comforts for journeying. I was to start immediately, and what about my outfit? Its extent must be determined by the amount of means. On examining my purse, I found it contained one dime (ten cents)—I was nearly minus ink—I could not go without that article: one dime was just the price of a bottle, and I made the purchase. After we started out from Winter Quarters, three or four days were consumed in maneuvering and making a “good ready.” At an appointed place for rendezvous, a general meeting was held around a Liberty Pole, erected for that purpose, and an organization effected similar to that entered into after leaving Nauvoo. Also, at our next point, on the Platte River, a Liberty Pole was erected, from which our National Flag floated gracefully on the breeze. How dear to the heart of an American, has that sacred emblem ever been! And, although at that time, it yielded us no protection—although we were homeless exiles, the wave of the “Dear old Flag,” seemed fraught with that inspiration which silently breathes a promise of peace. As we moved forward, one Divis-ion after another—sometimes in Fifties—sometimes in Tens—but seldom traveling in Hundreds, we passed and repassed each other, but at night kept as compact as circumstances would admit, especially when in the Indian country. Not knowing how our “red brethren” might feel disposed toward us, it was admitted that caution was the parent of safety. East of Fort Laramie, many of the Sioux nation mixed with our traveling camps—sometimes in our front and sometimes in our rear, on their way to the Fort, where their national Council was in Session. We had no other trouble with them than the loss of a few cooking utensils, which, when unobserved, they light-fingered; except in one instance, when our Ten had been left in the rear to repair a broken wagon, until late in the night. It was bright moonlight, and as we were passing one of their encampments, they formed in a line closely by the road-side, and, when our teams were passing they simultaneously and vigorously shook their blankets to frighten the teams and cause a stampede; however no serious injury occurred, although the animals were dreadfully frightened—cows broke their fastenings, oxen turned their bows, and horses pranced and trembled, while some of the weaker human nerves were not altogether proof against the unanticipated scare. Those Indians carried their tents and baggage on horses, mules and on drays formed of tent-poles, and drawn by horses, mules, and dogs: covers for the little ones were made by fastening skins over bows fixed to the upper side of the drays. We had two fearful stampedes while on this journey—the first was in the evening—the animals were in a corral formed by placing the wagons and carriages side by side, with the tongues on the outside of the hollow square, to which open spaces were left on two sides, for ingress and egress. The wagon in which I had retired for the night was either second or third from one of these openings, and to this gateway the animals all rushed—bellowing, puffing, and snorting, while they rushed against, and clambered over and up on each other in heaps, above the wagon-tops, and so frightened that it was some time before they succeeded in breaking through the gateway in making their escape. The scene was horrible! Some animals died of injuries—many had their horns knocked off, which produced pitiful sights. The trouble was occasioned by a person shaking the dust from a buffalo robe, which frightened the near animals—they started others to run, and the contagion spread almost instantaneously thro’ the entire herd. The camp necessarily halted for the recovery of the runaways, most of which were found the next day. The second stampede occurred in the day-time. We had stopped to repair a dilapidated crossing over a broad slough—the teams were standing two, three, and four abreast; and from the top, nearly to the bottom of a gentle slope, facing the hands at work, when two men on mules, with blankets swinging, rode galloping past—frightening the back teams, and they started on a rush forward, which started others, and soon nearly every vehicle was in motion with fearful velocity, the drivers absent, and women and children in wagons, carriages, and others still more exposed, standing where they were in danger of being crushed by the reckless flying wheels. With fearful velocity, heedless of crossings and bridges, those teams whirled their vehicles across the slough where, it was admitted that the most skillful teamster could not have succeeded. I was sitting alone on the back seat of a carriage, holding the reins of a high-spirited span—vehicles were flitting past—the horses made several springs, and I knew very well, if they really got started, no human power could prevent them stripping everything to strings. While I held them with all my strength, I prayed with all the fervency of my soul. Mrs. Pierce and her daughter Margaret, with whom I was journeying, being out of the carriage when the scene occurred, had been trying to stop some oxteams, but finding they could not succeed they came, one on each side, and caught the horses by the bits: they stopped prancing, but shook all over like a person with the shaking urge. Whatever skeptics may say, I attribute my preservation at that time to the peculiar and special blessing of God. And not only mine, but that of others: in the midst of the many fearful exposures, no one was seriously hurt. Much of the time we journeyed on untrod ground, but occasionally we struck the track of the Pioneers and read the date of their presence, with an “All well” accompaniment inscribed on a bleached buffalo skull, and had a general time of rejoicing. Those skulls were duly appreciated; but at times, the tremendous herds of live buffaloes were very annoying, especially when crossing their watering paths in near proximity to a river, and we were compelled to make a break in a line of wagons, and wait for two or three thousand of those uncompromising animals to pass. We had many seasons of rejoicing in the midst of privation and suffering—many manifestations of the loving kindness of God. In very many instances the sick were healed, and those who by accidents were nigh unto death, made speedily whole. I will mention one case which was under my immediate observation. Mrs. Love, an intimate friend of mine, fell from the tongue of her wagon, containing sixteen hundred freight; the wheels ran across her breast as she lay prostrate, and to all appearance, she was crushed, but on being administered to by some of the elders, she revived; and after having been anointed with consecrated oil, and having the ordinance of laying on of hands repeated she soon recovered, and on the fourth day after the accident, she milked her cow, as usual. Many, yes many were the star and moonlight evenings, when, as we circled around the blazing fire and sang our hymns of devotion and songs of praise to Him who knows the secrets of all hearts—when with sublime union of hearts, the sound of united voices reverberated from hill to hill; and echoing through the silent expanse, apparently filled the vast concave above, while the glory of God seemed to rest on all around us. On one of these soul-inspiring occasions—prompted by the spirit of Song, I wrote the following: SONG OF THE DESERT Beneath the cloud-topp’d mountain- Beside the craggy bluff, Where every dint of nature Is wild and rude enough: Upon the verdant meadow-- Upon the sun-burnt plain-- Upon the sandy hillock, We waken music’s strain. Beneath the pine-tree branches Which have for ages stood-- Beneath the humble cedar, And the green cotton-wood: Beside the broad smooth river-- Beside the flowing spring-- Beside the limpid streamlet, We often sit and sing. Beneath the sparkling concave, When stars in millions come To cheer the weary strangers And bid us feel at home. Amid the cheering moon-light, Fair Cynthia’s mellow rays In social groups we gather, And join in songs of praise. Cheer’d by the blaze of fire-light, When evening shadows fall, And when the darkness deepens Around our spacious hall; With true and warm emotion To saintly bosoms given, In strains of pure devotion We praise the God of heaven. (To be continued) |
MOSQUITO CREEK
At this place on the Pioneer Trail a conference was held —By permission and courtesy of American Pioneer Trails Association
BUFFALO STAMPEDE |
Smith, Eliza R. Snow. "Sketch of My Life." Relief Society Magazine. June 1944. pg. 313-314, 351.
Sketch Of My Life
Eliza R. Snow Smith
CHAPTER IV
HAD it not been for the rich seasons of refreshing from above which we experienced from [time] to time, with renewing influence; it really seemed as though many must have yielded beneath the weight of fatigue and exposure; who were thus enabled to struggle through.
But with all that was so kindly and timely bestowed, deaths made occasional inroads in our traveling camps. Nursing the sick in tents and wagons, was a laborious service; but the patient faithfulness with which it was performed, is, no doubt, registered in the archives above as an unfading memento of brotherly and sisterly love.
The burial of the dead by the way-side was a sad office, and so sad, that had it not been for a genuine feeling of sympathy for the bereaved, I would not have witnessed its performance.
On the 4th of August, we met several of the “Mormon Battalion” —husbands and sons of women in our Division; and to see the careworn faces of those women, beaming with the glow of exquisite joy in a happy reunion, after a long, toilsome separation, imparted unspeakable pleasure to us all.
On the 17th, a letter brought by brethren returning to Winter Quarters for their families, was publicly read, confirming the cheering report of the first arrivals, to wit: the Pioneers have found a location in Great Salt Lake Valley—a City site was being surveyed, etc. etc., which prompted a feeling that we had a definite point before us—a future peaceful home.
On the 8th, we met the main body of the Pioneers, led by President B. Young and H. C. Kimball, who were returning to Winter Quarters to spend the winter. It was a joyful time, and so deeply interested and absorbed were all, that no guard was kept, and about forty horses and mules were stolen in the night—some of them were not re-covered; which crippled the teams and impeded our progress, for many times, especially in ascending hills, the teams had to be doubled, thus causing much delay. But with all these, and other impediments, we strung along and reached the valley, one company after another, until all had arrived. Our arrival was on the 2nd of October.
Our first winter in the mountains was delightful—the ground froze very little—our coldest weather was three or four days in November, after which, the men plowed and sowed, built houses (huts) etc., during the winter—the temperature truly seemed to have been particularly ordered to meet our very peculiar circumstances. Every labor, such as cultivating the ground, and procuring timber and fuel from the canyons was an experiment-most of us were houseless: and what the result, would have been, had that winter been as severe as the succeeding ones, the Lord only knows.
The small amount of breadstuff brought over the plains, was dealt out sparingly; and our beef, made of cows and oxen that drew it, was, before they had time to fatten on the dry mountain-grass, very inferior. Those to whom it yielded sufficient fat to grease their griddles, were considered particularly fortunate. But we were happy in the rich blessings of peace, which, in the spirit of brotherly and sisterly union, we mutually enjoyed in our wild mountain home, and what we had, seemed to be multiplied as we carefully and thankfully used it.
When the men were toiling in the fields and canyons, the women devoted much time in meeting together administering to the sick, and in fervent prayer to God for assistance from on high, in behalf of our brethren who labored hard with but little food to sustain them. Some large families detailed a portion of their number, who spent their time in digging the wild “Sego-root,” the use of which was taught us by the Indians, of whom we sometimes purchased it, and proved it to be a nutritious, substantial article of food, and not un-palatable.
PRESIDENT YOUNG had made arrangements for me to live with his wife, Clara Decker, who accompanied him with the pioneers, and remained in the valley while he returned to Winter-Quarters for the other portion of his family. I found her living in a log-room, about eighteen feet square, which constituted a portion of the East side of our Fort. This hut, like most of those built the first year, was roofed with willows and earth, with very little inclination—the first-comers having adopted the idea that the valley was subject to little, if any rain, and built their roofs nearly flat. We suffered no inconvenience until about the middle of March, when a long storm of snow, sleet, and rain occurred, and, then for several days, the sun did not make its appearance. Mrs. Clara Young happened to be on a visit to her mother,[1] (who lived outside the Fort) when the storm commenced, and did not return until it subsided.
Sally, an Indian girl who had been purchased from a tribe by which she was held captive, was with me. The roof of our dwelling was covered deeper with earth than the adjoining ones, consequently did not leak as soon, and some of my neighbors huddled in for shelter. One evening as several were sitting socially conversing in my room, the water commenced dropping in one place and then in another, and so on: they dodged it for a while, but it increased so rapidly, they concluded to return to their own wet houses. After they left, Sally wrapped herself in her buffalo robe on the floor, and I spread my umbrella over my head and shoulders as I ensconced myself in bed, the lower part being unshielded, was wet enough before morning. During the night, despite all discomfiture, I laughed involuntarily while alone in the darkness of the night I lay reflecting on the ludicrous scene. The earth overhead being fully saturated, after it commenced to drip, the storm was much worse inside than out, and as the water coursed through the willows and pattered on the floor, washed the stones from the earth above, and they went clink, clink, while the numerous mice which the storm had driven in for shelter, ran squealing back and forth—the Indian girl asleep on the floor, altogether made the situation rather romantic.
A little now about the Indian girl. The same Indians who brought her, had, a short time previous, brought an Indian boy whom they offered for sale, saying they would kill him at sun-down if not purchased. Our people did not credit their threat, but when too late for remedy, learned that it was promptly executed, which prompted some of my neighbors to purchase Sally (whose Indian name was Pidash) when brought in and offered for sale with the same threat; and was placed in charge of Mrs. C. Young, and under our mutual care and cultivation, she very soon became disgusted with her native habits—became neat and tasteful in dress, and delicate in appetite, although at first she crunched bones like a dog. When she had sufficiently learned to communicate her ideas in our language, she informed us that she was of the Pibandy tribe—that her father died —her mother married again—her step-father was cruel to her and sold her to those of whom she was a captive. She proved to be a good, virtuous woman, and died beloved by all who knew her.
(To be continued)
[1] See Julia A. Caine, “A Pioneer Homemaker” The Relief Society Magazine, August 1943, p.464.
Sketch Of My Life
Eliza R. Snow Smith
CHAPTER IV
HAD it not been for the rich seasons of refreshing from above which we experienced from [time] to time, with renewing influence; it really seemed as though many must have yielded beneath the weight of fatigue and exposure; who were thus enabled to struggle through.
But with all that was so kindly and timely bestowed, deaths made occasional inroads in our traveling camps. Nursing the sick in tents and wagons, was a laborious service; but the patient faithfulness with which it was performed, is, no doubt, registered in the archives above as an unfading memento of brotherly and sisterly love.
The burial of the dead by the way-side was a sad office, and so sad, that had it not been for a genuine feeling of sympathy for the bereaved, I would not have witnessed its performance.
On the 4th of August, we met several of the “Mormon Battalion” —husbands and sons of women in our Division; and to see the careworn faces of those women, beaming with the glow of exquisite joy in a happy reunion, after a long, toilsome separation, imparted unspeakable pleasure to us all.
On the 17th, a letter brought by brethren returning to Winter Quarters for their families, was publicly read, confirming the cheering report of the first arrivals, to wit: the Pioneers have found a location in Great Salt Lake Valley—a City site was being surveyed, etc. etc., which prompted a feeling that we had a definite point before us—a future peaceful home.
On the 8th, we met the main body of the Pioneers, led by President B. Young and H. C. Kimball, who were returning to Winter Quarters to spend the winter. It was a joyful time, and so deeply interested and absorbed were all, that no guard was kept, and about forty horses and mules were stolen in the night—some of them were not re-covered; which crippled the teams and impeded our progress, for many times, especially in ascending hills, the teams had to be doubled, thus causing much delay. But with all these, and other impediments, we strung along and reached the valley, one company after another, until all had arrived. Our arrival was on the 2nd of October.
Our first winter in the mountains was delightful—the ground froze very little—our coldest weather was three or four days in November, after which, the men plowed and sowed, built houses (huts) etc., during the winter—the temperature truly seemed to have been particularly ordered to meet our very peculiar circumstances. Every labor, such as cultivating the ground, and procuring timber and fuel from the canyons was an experiment-most of us were houseless: and what the result, would have been, had that winter been as severe as the succeeding ones, the Lord only knows.
The small amount of breadstuff brought over the plains, was dealt out sparingly; and our beef, made of cows and oxen that drew it, was, before they had time to fatten on the dry mountain-grass, very inferior. Those to whom it yielded sufficient fat to grease their griddles, were considered particularly fortunate. But we were happy in the rich blessings of peace, which, in the spirit of brotherly and sisterly union, we mutually enjoyed in our wild mountain home, and what we had, seemed to be multiplied as we carefully and thankfully used it.
When the men were toiling in the fields and canyons, the women devoted much time in meeting together administering to the sick, and in fervent prayer to God for assistance from on high, in behalf of our brethren who labored hard with but little food to sustain them. Some large families detailed a portion of their number, who spent their time in digging the wild “Sego-root,” the use of which was taught us by the Indians, of whom we sometimes purchased it, and proved it to be a nutritious, substantial article of food, and not un-palatable.
PRESIDENT YOUNG had made arrangements for me to live with his wife, Clara Decker, who accompanied him with the pioneers, and remained in the valley while he returned to Winter-Quarters for the other portion of his family. I found her living in a log-room, about eighteen feet square, which constituted a portion of the East side of our Fort. This hut, like most of those built the first year, was roofed with willows and earth, with very little inclination—the first-comers having adopted the idea that the valley was subject to little, if any rain, and built their roofs nearly flat. We suffered no inconvenience until about the middle of March, when a long storm of snow, sleet, and rain occurred, and, then for several days, the sun did not make its appearance. Mrs. Clara Young happened to be on a visit to her mother,[1] (who lived outside the Fort) when the storm commenced, and did not return until it subsided.
Sally, an Indian girl who had been purchased from a tribe by which she was held captive, was with me. The roof of our dwelling was covered deeper with earth than the adjoining ones, consequently did not leak as soon, and some of my neighbors huddled in for shelter. One evening as several were sitting socially conversing in my room, the water commenced dropping in one place and then in another, and so on: they dodged it for a while, but it increased so rapidly, they concluded to return to their own wet houses. After they left, Sally wrapped herself in her buffalo robe on the floor, and I spread my umbrella over my head and shoulders as I ensconced myself in bed, the lower part being unshielded, was wet enough before morning. During the night, despite all discomfiture, I laughed involuntarily while alone in the darkness of the night I lay reflecting on the ludicrous scene. The earth overhead being fully saturated, after it commenced to drip, the storm was much worse inside than out, and as the water coursed through the willows and pattered on the floor, washed the stones from the earth above, and they went clink, clink, while the numerous mice which the storm had driven in for shelter, ran squealing back and forth—the Indian girl asleep on the floor, altogether made the situation rather romantic.
A little now about the Indian girl. The same Indians who brought her, had, a short time previous, brought an Indian boy whom they offered for sale, saying they would kill him at sun-down if not purchased. Our people did not credit their threat, but when too late for remedy, learned that it was promptly executed, which prompted some of my neighbors to purchase Sally (whose Indian name was Pidash) when brought in and offered for sale with the same threat; and was placed in charge of Mrs. C. Young, and under our mutual care and cultivation, she very soon became disgusted with her native habits—became neat and tasteful in dress, and delicate in appetite, although at first she crunched bones like a dog. When she had sufficiently learned to communicate her ideas in our language, she informed us that she was of the Pibandy tribe—that her father died —her mother married again—her step-father was cruel to her and sold her to those of whom she was a captive. She proved to be a good, virtuous woman, and died beloved by all who knew her.
(To be continued)
[1] See Julia A. Caine, “A Pioneer Homemaker” The Relief Society Magazine, August 1943, p.464.
Smith, Eliza R. Snow. "Sketch of My Life." Relief Society Magazine. July 1944. pg. 392-394.
Sketch Of My Life
Eliza R. Snow Smith
CHAPTER V
BEFORE we left Winter Quarters, a Committee, appointed for the purpose, inspected the provisions of each family, in order to ascertain that all were provided with at least a moderate competency of three-fourths pound of fine flour per day, for grown persons, and one-half pound for children—a precautionary measure to prevent famishing. A portion of the “Mormon Battalion,” having been disbanded on the Pacific coast, destitute of pay for their services, joined us before Spring, and we cheerfully divided our “rations ” of flour with them, which put some of us on scant allowance.
Soon after our arrival, a tall Liberty-pole was erected, and from its summit, the “Stars and Stripes” seemed to float with, if possible, more significance than they were wont on eastern breezes.
Many, whose circumstances would not admit of coming the first year, sent seeds for fruit trees by those who came; and as the season advanced, it was highly gratifying to see the multitudes of sprouts starting up in newborn nurseries in various directions. But alas! a tragic fate awaited the luxuriant growth of those trees in embryo. Precisely corresponding with descriptions of ancient locust raids on the Eastern Continent, the crickets of enormous size, came down from the mountains, moving in a solid phalanx taking everything before them, while desolation followed, insomuch that had not a host of sea-gulls (which we considered a special Providence) come to the rescue, all of our crops would have been destroyed. Those gulls in large swarms, went through the invading army, swallowing the crickets wherever they went—as their stomachs filled, they vomited and filled again, until the premises were entirely cleared. The drouth of the summer prevented its full growth and the wheat left in the ground after the cricket ravages, was, much of it too short to cut, and was pulled.
In the first winter a company of men was sent from the valley to California for seeds and cuttings. They arrived home early in May, and I gave 75 cents for 6 or 7 little potatoes, all of which I could hold in one hand. I let them out to raise, and in the fall, my half was a heaping half-bushel of beautiful, well developed potatoes.
On the 20th Sept. 1848 Prest. Young arrived, and with him a large company of Saints, which produced a scene of general joy.
Our public meetings were all held in the “Lord’s parlor”—i.e. out of doors, where was plenty of room for the new-comers, with sufficient ground floor to sit or stand upon; with a rustic elevated Stand for the speaker, and as a rallying point for the audience. Quite an improvement on the first year’s experience, when our place of gathering was by the side of a wheat stack.
A neat brick building, called ‘Council House” was early completed: the lower story was occupied as its name denotes, and the upper, in administering in some of the sacred ordinances of the Gospel. Subsequently the “House of the Lord” was erected, and I was present at its dedication—a privilege that cannot be too highly estimated. From that time, when in the city, I have been a constant officiate in that House.
Our numbers had so increased that before the close of the second year, representatives of the people met in Convention and formed what was termed a “Provisional Government of the State of Deseret.” A Constitution was adopted and Delegates sent to Washington, asking admission into the Union. The people elected a Governor, Judges, and members for the Legislature- all of whom, discharged the duties of their several offices, without pay. The General Assembly adopted the following rule—“All non-punctual officers and members shall be subject to fine.” And sufficient means was thus realized to furnish fuel, light, and brooms.
JN the autumn of 1850 Congress passed an Act by which we were organized into the Territory of Utah. Millard Fillmore then President of the U. S., appointed Brigham Young, who previous to this, was Governor of the State of Deseret, Governor of Utah Territory. He was truly the choice of the people, but the wishes of the people were not consulted in choosing the other officers: with the exception of Marshall, all were appointed and sent; and most of them, especially the notorious Judges, Brocchus and Brandebury, with their colleague, Day, were positively nuisances: and because the Government would not send a posse of soldiers to destroy us, they went howling away.
The Secretary, Mr. Harris, withheld the money sent by him to pay the expenses of -the Legislature. But to us, money and all, their exit was a good riddance, so long as their sole object was to stir up strife between Congress and the Territory.— So much in explanation of our Territorial birth. From our first settlement in the mountains we celebrated the Fourth of July, our great National birthday; and the Twenty-Fourth of that month, the day of the arrival of the Pioneers in the valleys of the mountains.
In this early time poets were not as plentiful with us as at present, and I was expected to furnish one song, and sometimes more than one, for each of these occasions. It so happened that the Government officers, above referred to, absconded in 1852, just before we had a Mammoth Celebration of the Fourth. Our first Tabernacle having been completed, did honor to, the occasion. In composing a song for this celebration, prompted by the circumstances of the times, I indulged in the ludicrous—adopting the measure and also the tune of "Old Dan Tucker” in which it was sung, and called for the second time, creating a considerable merriment in the audience.
I here transcribe the song for the Fourth of July, 1852, for its novelty.
All hail the day Columbia first
The iron chains of bondage burst!
Lo! Utah valleys now resound
With Freedom's tread on western ground.
Chorus
Though Brocchus, Day, and Brandebury,
And Harris, too, the Secretary,
Have gone! they went! But when they left us,
They only of themselves bereft us.
Here is a people brave and free;
Bold advocates for liberty--
The champions of our country's cause,
And firm supporters of her laws.
Chorus—Tho' Brocchus, etc.
The Banner which our fathers won--
The legacy of Washington,
Is now in Utah wide unfurled,
And proffers peace to all the world.
Chorus—Tho' Brocchus, etc.
We'll here revive our country's fame,
The glory of Columbia's name;
Her Constitution's germ will be
The basis of our Liberty.
Chorus—Tho' Brocchus, etc.
With hearts of valor, firm and true, With patriotic ardor, too,
We now commemorate the day
Where Freedom chants her sweetest lay.
Chorus—Tho' Brocchus, etc.
Long as the everlasting snows
Upon these mountain-tops repose,
Those rights our vet'ran fathers gained,
Shall in these valleys be sustained.
Chorus—Tho' Brocchus, etc.
This Territory shall not rate
Inferior to a sister State
For justice, order, harmony,
Peace, virtue, and integrity.
Chorus—Tho' Brocchus, ’ etc.
Our Motto,—"Truth and Liberty”
As heretofore, will ever be;
And heav'n's strong pillars sooner shake
Then we our Standard will forsake.
Chorus—Tho' Brocchus, etc.
(To be continued)
Sketch Of My Life
Eliza R. Snow Smith
CHAPTER V
BEFORE we left Winter Quarters, a Committee, appointed for the purpose, inspected the provisions of each family, in order to ascertain that all were provided with at least a moderate competency of three-fourths pound of fine flour per day, for grown persons, and one-half pound for children—a precautionary measure to prevent famishing. A portion of the “Mormon Battalion,” having been disbanded on the Pacific coast, destitute of pay for their services, joined us before Spring, and we cheerfully divided our “rations ” of flour with them, which put some of us on scant allowance.
Soon after our arrival, a tall Liberty-pole was erected, and from its summit, the “Stars and Stripes” seemed to float with, if possible, more significance than they were wont on eastern breezes.
Many, whose circumstances would not admit of coming the first year, sent seeds for fruit trees by those who came; and as the season advanced, it was highly gratifying to see the multitudes of sprouts starting up in newborn nurseries in various directions. But alas! a tragic fate awaited the luxuriant growth of those trees in embryo. Precisely corresponding with descriptions of ancient locust raids on the Eastern Continent, the crickets of enormous size, came down from the mountains, moving in a solid phalanx taking everything before them, while desolation followed, insomuch that had not a host of sea-gulls (which we considered a special Providence) come to the rescue, all of our crops would have been destroyed. Those gulls in large swarms, went through the invading army, swallowing the crickets wherever they went—as their stomachs filled, they vomited and filled again, until the premises were entirely cleared. The drouth of the summer prevented its full growth and the wheat left in the ground after the cricket ravages, was, much of it too short to cut, and was pulled.
In the first winter a company of men was sent from the valley to California for seeds and cuttings. They arrived home early in May, and I gave 75 cents for 6 or 7 little potatoes, all of which I could hold in one hand. I let them out to raise, and in the fall, my half was a heaping half-bushel of beautiful, well developed potatoes.
On the 20th Sept. 1848 Prest. Young arrived, and with him a large company of Saints, which produced a scene of general joy.
Our public meetings were all held in the “Lord’s parlor”—i.e. out of doors, where was plenty of room for the new-comers, with sufficient ground floor to sit or stand upon; with a rustic elevated Stand for the speaker, and as a rallying point for the audience. Quite an improvement on the first year’s experience, when our place of gathering was by the side of a wheat stack.
A neat brick building, called ‘Council House” was early completed: the lower story was occupied as its name denotes, and the upper, in administering in some of the sacred ordinances of the Gospel. Subsequently the “House of the Lord” was erected, and I was present at its dedication—a privilege that cannot be too highly estimated. From that time, when in the city, I have been a constant officiate in that House.
Our numbers had so increased that before the close of the second year, representatives of the people met in Convention and formed what was termed a “Provisional Government of the State of Deseret.” A Constitution was adopted and Delegates sent to Washington, asking admission into the Union. The people elected a Governor, Judges, and members for the Legislature- all of whom, discharged the duties of their several offices, without pay. The General Assembly adopted the following rule—“All non-punctual officers and members shall be subject to fine.” And sufficient means was thus realized to furnish fuel, light, and brooms.
JN the autumn of 1850 Congress passed an Act by which we were organized into the Territory of Utah. Millard Fillmore then President of the U. S., appointed Brigham Young, who previous to this, was Governor of the State of Deseret, Governor of Utah Territory. He was truly the choice of the people, but the wishes of the people were not consulted in choosing the other officers: with the exception of Marshall, all were appointed and sent; and most of them, especially the notorious Judges, Brocchus and Brandebury, with their colleague, Day, were positively nuisances: and because the Government would not send a posse of soldiers to destroy us, they went howling away.
The Secretary, Mr. Harris, withheld the money sent by him to pay the expenses of -the Legislature. But to us, money and all, their exit was a good riddance, so long as their sole object was to stir up strife between Congress and the Territory.— So much in explanation of our Territorial birth. From our first settlement in the mountains we celebrated the Fourth of July, our great National birthday; and the Twenty-Fourth of that month, the day of the arrival of the Pioneers in the valleys of the mountains.
In this early time poets were not as plentiful with us as at present, and I was expected to furnish one song, and sometimes more than one, for each of these occasions. It so happened that the Government officers, above referred to, absconded in 1852, just before we had a Mammoth Celebration of the Fourth. Our first Tabernacle having been completed, did honor to, the occasion. In composing a song for this celebration, prompted by the circumstances of the times, I indulged in the ludicrous—adopting the measure and also the tune of "Old Dan Tucker” in which it was sung, and called for the second time, creating a considerable merriment in the audience.
I here transcribe the song for the Fourth of July, 1852, for its novelty.
All hail the day Columbia first
The iron chains of bondage burst!
Lo! Utah valleys now resound
With Freedom's tread on western ground.
Chorus
Though Brocchus, Day, and Brandebury,
And Harris, too, the Secretary,
Have gone! they went! But when they left us,
They only of themselves bereft us.
Here is a people brave and free;
Bold advocates for liberty--
The champions of our country's cause,
And firm supporters of her laws.
Chorus—Tho' Brocchus, etc.
The Banner which our fathers won--
The legacy of Washington,
Is now in Utah wide unfurled,
And proffers peace to all the world.
Chorus—Tho' Brocchus, etc.
We'll here revive our country's fame,
The glory of Columbia's name;
Her Constitution's germ will be
The basis of our Liberty.
Chorus—Tho' Brocchus, etc.
With hearts of valor, firm and true, With patriotic ardor, too,
We now commemorate the day
Where Freedom chants her sweetest lay.
Chorus—Tho' Brocchus, etc.
Long as the everlasting snows
Upon these mountain-tops repose,
Those rights our vet'ran fathers gained,
Shall in these valleys be sustained.
Chorus—Tho' Brocchus, etc.
This Territory shall not rate
Inferior to a sister State
For justice, order, harmony,
Peace, virtue, and integrity.
Chorus—Tho' Brocchus, ’ etc.
Our Motto,—"Truth and Liberty”
As heretofore, will ever be;
And heav'n's strong pillars sooner shake
Then we our Standard will forsake.
Chorus—Tho' Brocchus, etc.
(To be continued)
Smith, Eliza R. Snow. "Sketch of My Life." Relief Society Magazine. August 1944. pg. 450-453.
Sketch Of My Life
Eliza R. Snow Smith
CHAPTER VI
THE “Female Relief Society” was organized by Joseph Smith in Nauvoo on the 17th of March, 1842. It was organized after the pattern of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with President and Counselors, and accomplished much good in administering to the sick, relieving the wants of the poor, etc. The Prophet had donated to the Society a Lot, and the frame of a house, as a commencement for establishing a home for the homeless, but the ruthless hand of persecution thwarted this benevolent purpose—the Prophet was massacred and the Saints driven from their homes.
From the time of the expulsion from Nauvoo, the Female Relief Society remained in status quo until it was reorganized under the direction of Pres. B[righam] Young in the year 1855, commencing in the Fifteenth Ward, S. L. City.
As I had been intimately associated with, and had officiated as Secretary for the first organization, Pres. Young commissioned me to assist the Bishops in organizing Branches of the Society in their respective Wards; for, at that time, the Bishops had not acquainted themselves with the movement, and did not know how to proceed. To me it was quite a mission, and I took much pleasure in its performance. I felt quite honored and much at home in my associations with the Bishops, and they appreciated my assistance. Each Branch of the Society, although constituting a self-governing body, and empowered to create committees and whatever officers may be needed from time to time, in accomplishing its many and increasing labors, is under the di-rection of its respective Bishop or presiding officer of the Ward.
Not long after the re-organization of the Relief Society, Pres. Young told me he was going to give me another mission. Without the least intimation of what the mission consisted, I replied, “I shall endeavor to fulfil it.” He said, “I want you to instruct the sisters.” Altho’ my heart went “pit a pat” for the time being, I did not, and could not then form an adequate estimate of the magnitude of the work before me. To carry into effect the President’s requisition, I saw, at once, involved public meetings and public speaking—also travel abroad, as the Branches of the Society of the sisterhood extended at that time, through several Counties in Utah, and ultimately, all the valleys of the mountains—numbering, at present date, nearly three hundred; besides other Branches in the U.S., Europe, Asia, Islands of the Sea, wherever the “Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints” has established its Branches. Some years ago, by mutual consent, the word female was dropped, and the Society called “Relief Society.”
Its first duty is to look after and relieve the wants of the poor, to accomplish which committees are ap-pointed to visit each family residing in their respective districts, at least, once every month, and report to the presiding officers. The cultivation of the members of the Society (which is composed of aged and middle-aged women) physically, mentally, morally, and spiritually, is another prominent feature of the institution, which has proved very beneficial. At the time of its organization in Salt Lake City, the Saints were very poor, and the funds of the Society were raised by contributions of carpet rags, pieces for patchwork, etc., which were converted into carpets, quilts—wool carded, spun, and knitted into socks and stockings, by the industry of the members, who met together, sometimes weekly, at others, once in two weeks, to work the crude material into wearing and saleable articles.
In 1876 I was called upon to report the charitable Institutions conducted by women in Utah, to the “Woman’s Department” in the Centennial Fair in Philadelphia. At that time, the number of Branches of the R. S. was very much less than at present, but my financial Report was between ninety-two and ninety- three thousand dollars Disbursed by the Society, including relief to the poor, emigration of the poor, to assist in building Temples, schoolhouses, meeting-houses, etc. Since that time the favorable circum-stances of the L.D. Saints, have added to the facilities of many of the Branches, and they have purchased land and erected houses for their own accommodation in holding meetings—doing business, etc., also Granaries for storing wheat against a day of famine.
IN 1867 I organized the first Society of Young Ladies, called “Young Ladies’ Retrenchment As-sociation,” under the direction of Pres. B. Young. Subsequently the name was changed, and it is now known as “Young Ladies’ Mutual Improvement Association,” and is now organized, and in active operation in nearly every settlement in the mountains, and in each Ward in our Cities; and, after the pattern of the Relief Society, these Branches are organized in Counties (Stake capacity) with a General or Central Board, presiding over all.
In August 1878, Mrs. Emmeline B. Wells and I, after attending a Conference of the Young Ladies in Farmington, Davis Co., spent an hour, waiting for the train, with Mrs. Aurelia Rogers. During our con-versation, Mrs. R. expressed a desire that something more could be effected for the cultivation and improvement of the children morally and spiritually than was being done through the influence of day and Sunday-Schools. After consulting together a few moments, I asked Mrs. R. if she was willing to take the responsibility and labor on herself of presiding over the children of that settlement, provided the Bishop of the Ward sanctioned the movement. She replied in the affirmative. The train was near, and no time to consult the Bishop; but directly after arriving home, I wrote the Bishop, and by return Mail received from him a very satisfactory response, in which he, (Bishop Hess) not only gave his permission but hearty approval accompanied with his blessing. I then informed Mrs. Rogers that she might consider herself authorized to proceed, and organize in Farmington, which she did, and I commenced in the Eleventh Ward in Salt Lake City. We adopted the appellation of Primary Associations, and admit as members boys and girls from four to twelve, and in some instances, sixteen years of age.
The children are now organized with a Branch in each Ward in our cities and towns, and one in each settlement—they are also organized in Stake capacity—also with a Central Board. The Branch Associations hold weekly meetings—are presided over by adult ladies for President and Counselors, but the Sec. and Treas. are chosen from the children, and it is surprising to see with what aptitude many of them become proficient.
I have traveled from one end of Utah Ter. to the other—into Nevada and Idaho, in the interests of these organizations—have organized hundreds of the Young Ladies’ and Primary Associations since their introduction.
In company of Mrs. Z. D. H. Young, my 1st Coun. in the R. S. Central Board, I spent the Autumn and Winter of 1880-1 in St. George, officiating in the Temple for the dead, and visiting and organizing As-sociations in that interesting City, and adjacent country—having traveled one thousand ms. by team over jolting rocks and through bedded sand, occasionally camping out at night on long drives, before I started for home, and returned to Salt Lake City in March.
In Nov. 1875 I was noticed of an appointment, and not long after received my credentials from Philadelphia, requiring me to take charge of the Woman's Department in Utah for the Centennial Fair. I saw at once that the proportions of the work before me, compared better with the elephant than the butterfly; but I never had shrunk from duty, and it was too late to begin. I selected and organized a Committee of twelve, composed of “Mormon” and Gentile Ladies—got up a printed Circular which we sent post-haste to all Presidents of Relief Societies, and Young Ladies' Associations, calling for a united co-operation in preparing and collecting specimens that should be worthy our representation, and do honor to our grand National Centennial Fair. We received a hearty response, and succeeded in collections beyond our most sanguine anticipations. I wrote a Petition which was signed by the Committee, and presented to the Legislature in session in S. L. City, asking for an appropriation to enable us to defray expenses in forwarding our specimens to Philadelphia; which, for reasons satisfactorily explained, was not granted. We made a selection of some hundred dollars worth of choice, light articles and sent to Philadelphia, and directed our energies toward a Territorial Fair—obtained the use of a commodious building — arranged our specimens in two departments including a picture gallery, which we kept open during the summer of 1876, with grand success.
After closing the Fair, Pres. Young told me he wished the sisters to start a home-industry Store in the building occupied for the Fair. He proposed for us to sell on commission and everything sold must be of Home Manufacture. Of course this required a new organization, for all engaged in it must be “Mormon” women, and interested in the development of Utah.
President Young gave me permission to order as much as I wished of cloth from his factory—which, with other varieties from the Woolen Mills in Provo, constituted a staple trade at our commencement. As the object of the movement was to promote home-manufacture we placed our commission percentage at low figures, which encouraged and brought to hand a great variety of useful and fancy articles, which gave the store the appearance of an Eastern bazaar, and attracted much notoriety. But experience proved that, no matter how many were obligated to sustain the enterprise, the weight of care and responsibility slid on to my shoulders, and could not be divided without hazarding success. With the many duties devolving on me, I found that my labors in this direction were too much, and, after the expiration of one year, with mutual consent, the establishment passed into other hands, and we were honorably released. But the movement was not of the ephemery class—short-lived; it still lives, and the Store is in successful operation under the management of two young gentlemen.
(To be continued)
Sketch Of My Life
Eliza R. Snow Smith
CHAPTER VI
THE “Female Relief Society” was organized by Joseph Smith in Nauvoo on the 17th of March, 1842. It was organized after the pattern of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with President and Counselors, and accomplished much good in administering to the sick, relieving the wants of the poor, etc. The Prophet had donated to the Society a Lot, and the frame of a house, as a commencement for establishing a home for the homeless, but the ruthless hand of persecution thwarted this benevolent purpose—the Prophet was massacred and the Saints driven from their homes.
From the time of the expulsion from Nauvoo, the Female Relief Society remained in status quo until it was reorganized under the direction of Pres. B[righam] Young in the year 1855, commencing in the Fifteenth Ward, S. L. City.
As I had been intimately associated with, and had officiated as Secretary for the first organization, Pres. Young commissioned me to assist the Bishops in organizing Branches of the Society in their respective Wards; for, at that time, the Bishops had not acquainted themselves with the movement, and did not know how to proceed. To me it was quite a mission, and I took much pleasure in its performance. I felt quite honored and much at home in my associations with the Bishops, and they appreciated my assistance. Each Branch of the Society, although constituting a self-governing body, and empowered to create committees and whatever officers may be needed from time to time, in accomplishing its many and increasing labors, is under the di-rection of its respective Bishop or presiding officer of the Ward.
Not long after the re-organization of the Relief Society, Pres. Young told me he was going to give me another mission. Without the least intimation of what the mission consisted, I replied, “I shall endeavor to fulfil it.” He said, “I want you to instruct the sisters.” Altho’ my heart went “pit a pat” for the time being, I did not, and could not then form an adequate estimate of the magnitude of the work before me. To carry into effect the President’s requisition, I saw, at once, involved public meetings and public speaking—also travel abroad, as the Branches of the Society of the sisterhood extended at that time, through several Counties in Utah, and ultimately, all the valleys of the mountains—numbering, at present date, nearly three hundred; besides other Branches in the U.S., Europe, Asia, Islands of the Sea, wherever the “Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints” has established its Branches. Some years ago, by mutual consent, the word female was dropped, and the Society called “Relief Society.”
Its first duty is to look after and relieve the wants of the poor, to accomplish which committees are ap-pointed to visit each family residing in their respective districts, at least, once every month, and report to the presiding officers. The cultivation of the members of the Society (which is composed of aged and middle-aged women) physically, mentally, morally, and spiritually, is another prominent feature of the institution, which has proved very beneficial. At the time of its organization in Salt Lake City, the Saints were very poor, and the funds of the Society were raised by contributions of carpet rags, pieces for patchwork, etc., which were converted into carpets, quilts—wool carded, spun, and knitted into socks and stockings, by the industry of the members, who met together, sometimes weekly, at others, once in two weeks, to work the crude material into wearing and saleable articles.
In 1876 I was called upon to report the charitable Institutions conducted by women in Utah, to the “Woman’s Department” in the Centennial Fair in Philadelphia. At that time, the number of Branches of the R. S. was very much less than at present, but my financial Report was between ninety-two and ninety- three thousand dollars Disbursed by the Society, including relief to the poor, emigration of the poor, to assist in building Temples, schoolhouses, meeting-houses, etc. Since that time the favorable circum-stances of the L.D. Saints, have added to the facilities of many of the Branches, and they have purchased land and erected houses for their own accommodation in holding meetings—doing business, etc., also Granaries for storing wheat against a day of famine.
IN 1867 I organized the first Society of Young Ladies, called “Young Ladies’ Retrenchment As-sociation,” under the direction of Pres. B. Young. Subsequently the name was changed, and it is now known as “Young Ladies’ Mutual Improvement Association,” and is now organized, and in active operation in nearly every settlement in the mountains, and in each Ward in our Cities; and, after the pattern of the Relief Society, these Branches are organized in Counties (Stake capacity) with a General or Central Board, presiding over all.
In August 1878, Mrs. Emmeline B. Wells and I, after attending a Conference of the Young Ladies in Farmington, Davis Co., spent an hour, waiting for the train, with Mrs. Aurelia Rogers. During our con-versation, Mrs. R. expressed a desire that something more could be effected for the cultivation and improvement of the children morally and spiritually than was being done through the influence of day and Sunday-Schools. After consulting together a few moments, I asked Mrs. R. if she was willing to take the responsibility and labor on herself of presiding over the children of that settlement, provided the Bishop of the Ward sanctioned the movement. She replied in the affirmative. The train was near, and no time to consult the Bishop; but directly after arriving home, I wrote the Bishop, and by return Mail received from him a very satisfactory response, in which he, (Bishop Hess) not only gave his permission but hearty approval accompanied with his blessing. I then informed Mrs. Rogers that she might consider herself authorized to proceed, and organize in Farmington, which she did, and I commenced in the Eleventh Ward in Salt Lake City. We adopted the appellation of Primary Associations, and admit as members boys and girls from four to twelve, and in some instances, sixteen years of age.
The children are now organized with a Branch in each Ward in our cities and towns, and one in each settlement—they are also organized in Stake capacity—also with a Central Board. The Branch Associations hold weekly meetings—are presided over by adult ladies for President and Counselors, but the Sec. and Treas. are chosen from the children, and it is surprising to see with what aptitude many of them become proficient.
I have traveled from one end of Utah Ter. to the other—into Nevada and Idaho, in the interests of these organizations—have organized hundreds of the Young Ladies’ and Primary Associations since their introduction.
In company of Mrs. Z. D. H. Young, my 1st Coun. in the R. S. Central Board, I spent the Autumn and Winter of 1880-1 in St. George, officiating in the Temple for the dead, and visiting and organizing As-sociations in that interesting City, and adjacent country—having traveled one thousand ms. by team over jolting rocks and through bedded sand, occasionally camping out at night on long drives, before I started for home, and returned to Salt Lake City in March.
In Nov. 1875 I was noticed of an appointment, and not long after received my credentials from Philadelphia, requiring me to take charge of the Woman's Department in Utah for the Centennial Fair. I saw at once that the proportions of the work before me, compared better with the elephant than the butterfly; but I never had shrunk from duty, and it was too late to begin. I selected and organized a Committee of twelve, composed of “Mormon” and Gentile Ladies—got up a printed Circular which we sent post-haste to all Presidents of Relief Societies, and Young Ladies' Associations, calling for a united co-operation in preparing and collecting specimens that should be worthy our representation, and do honor to our grand National Centennial Fair. We received a hearty response, and succeeded in collections beyond our most sanguine anticipations. I wrote a Petition which was signed by the Committee, and presented to the Legislature in session in S. L. City, asking for an appropriation to enable us to defray expenses in forwarding our specimens to Philadelphia; which, for reasons satisfactorily explained, was not granted. We made a selection of some hundred dollars worth of choice, light articles and sent to Philadelphia, and directed our energies toward a Territorial Fair—obtained the use of a commodious building — arranged our specimens in two departments including a picture gallery, which we kept open during the summer of 1876, with grand success.
After closing the Fair, Pres. Young told me he wished the sisters to start a home-industry Store in the building occupied for the Fair. He proposed for us to sell on commission and everything sold must be of Home Manufacture. Of course this required a new organization, for all engaged in it must be “Mormon” women, and interested in the development of Utah.
President Young gave me permission to order as much as I wished of cloth from his factory—which, with other varieties from the Woolen Mills in Provo, constituted a staple trade at our commencement. As the object of the movement was to promote home-manufacture we placed our commission percentage at low figures, which encouraged and brought to hand a great variety of useful and fancy articles, which gave the store the appearance of an Eastern bazaar, and attracted much notoriety. But experience proved that, no matter how many were obligated to sustain the enterprise, the weight of care and responsibility slid on to my shoulders, and could not be divided without hazarding success. With the many duties devolving on me, I found that my labors in this direction were too much, and, after the expiration of one year, with mutual consent, the establishment passed into other hands, and we were honorably released. But the movement was not of the ephemery class—short-lived; it still lives, and the Store is in successful operation under the management of two young gentlemen.
(To be continued)
Smith, Eliza R. Snow. "Sketch of My Life." Relief Society Magazine. September 1944. pg. 504-505.
Sketch Of My Life Eliza R. Snow Smith CHAPTER VII SOME years before the death of the Prophet Joseph Smith, and long before the thought had entered the mind of Pres. Young to propose a visit to the “Holy Land,” the Prophet said to me, “You will yet visit Jerusalem.” I recorded the saying in my Journal at the time, but had not reviewed it for many years, and the, to me, strange prediction had entirely gone from my memory—even when invited to join the Tourist-party, although the anticipation of standing on the sacredly celebrated Mount of Olives inspired me with a feeling no language can describe; Joseph Smith's prediction did not occur to me until within a very few days of the time set for starting, when a friend brought it to my recollection, and then by reference to the long neglected Journal, the proof was before us. While on the tour, the knowledge of that prediction inspired me with strength and fortitude. Accompanied by several very dear friends, on the morning of the 26th of Oct. 1872, I left Salt Lake City, on route for Palestine. In Ogden I was joined by my brother, Lorenzo Snow, and after an affectionate parting with the friends who accompanied me, we took train for New York via Chicago where we spent one day. In New York we met George A. Smith, the President of our party, Elders F. Little and Paul A. Schettler, our interpreter and cashier, Miss C. Little, my lady companion, who left home before me, to visit friends in eastern states. After securing oui Passports, we steamed out from N. York on the Minnesota—encountered one storm which satisfied my curiosity to witness “a storm at sea,” and arrived safely in Liverpool. On leaving London, our party consisted of six gentlemen and two ladies. We visited principal places in Europe, Asia, Africa, Egypt, Greece, Turkey in Europe, etc., and on our return, after a flying trip among our relatives in the States, my brother and I arrived home in July, 1873. In 1875 I compiled the letters written abroad by Pres. Smith, T. A. Schettler, my brother, and myself, and published in a well-bound book containing nearly 400 pages of instructive, truthful descriptive reading matter making a respectable and useful addition to our home literature. Since that time, I have published seven books, the last and largest, containing nearly 600 pages was issued, and a few copies bound in September 1884. My first Vol. of poems was printed and bound in Liverpool, Eng., under the supervision of Elder F. D. Richards, at that time presiding over the European Mission. A few years later, I sent the manuscript of the 2d Vol. to the same Office for publication, but through some casualty it was lost, or supposed to be, and was missing until I had relinquished all expectation of it, when it was accidently found only too safely deposited in an obscure till in the Office. I ordered the Manuscript returned, and published it in Salt Lake City—our printing establishment having, by that time, good facilities for book-making. including a “Tune-Book,” I have, in all, published nine Volumes, besides second editions to several of them. JN connection with my literary, social, and sacred labors, I have expended considerable time, labor and means in promoting the culture and manufacture of Silk. In our first organization of our “Silk Association” I was appointed Chairman of a Committee to raise means by donation or investment as capital, for this enterprise. We applied to those who were in possession of wealth, but the prospect of early proceeds was not sufficiently promising for their speculating ambition. But we succeeded in obtaining means sufficient to start the manufacture of the raw material, with simple appliances, to fully test the feasibility of success, provided sufficient interest could be aroused in this direction. Our Cocoons, and reeled silk were examined by proficients in silk culture who visited us from all parts of the civilized world, and in all instances pronounced equal, and by many, better than in other countries. Thus far, it had been the work of women. After applying to the Territorial Legislature for means, which was generously granted, we purchased a set of machinery; we then applied to the authorities of the Church, and, in response to our request, a meeting was called—a new organization formed, with Mr. William Jennings Pres., and other gentlemen associated. I held the position of Vice Pres, for some length of time, and resigned in favor of an-other lady with fewer responsibilities than myself. (To be continued) |
ELIZA R. SNOW
LORENZO SNOW
Pictures taken in Cairo, Egypt, while on the trip to Palestine.
|
Smith, Eliza R. Snow. "Sketch of My Life." Relief Society Magazine. October 1944. pg. 578-581.
Sketch Of My Life
Eliza R. Snow Smith
CHAPTER VIII
ALTHOUGH two Hospitals, St. Mark’s and St. Mary’s had been established in Salt Lake City by their respective religious de-nominations, the Latter-day Saints felt the need of one of their own where the sick and maimed, who de-sired, could have the sacred ordinances of anointing with oil and laying on of hands administered without being exposed to the con-tempt and ridicule of those who ignored them. But the means, labors, and attention of our people being necessarily directed in so many channels, that in cases in which Hospital appliances were indispensably requisite for the alleviation of suffering humanity, we patronized those in operation.
Leading “Mormon” women have, from time to time, suggested that we make a move in the direction of a Hospital of our own, but without lo-cation, building, and without funds, to start out in an enterprise of such magnitude seemed preposterous even to the most sanguine. At one time, President Young proposed to me, if I would take charge, and preside over the Institution, he would donate a certain Lot, on which was a moderately sized house, for the commencement of a Hospital, of which he would give a warrantee deed for that purpose. But at that time my labors and responsibilities were such as rendered it an utter impossibility for me to accept the proposal and, as he declined entrusting it to another, the generous offer passed from our reach; but the want of a Hospital of our own grew more ap-parent year by year until in 1881-2, when in the minds of several “Mormon” women it was settled as a necessity, and the idea was coincided in by some of the leading men.
In the Spring following, the “Catholic Sisters,” who for seven years had conducted St. Mary’s Hospital on premises which they rented, were going to vacate them, which suggested an opportunity for us to obtain the place by paying rent as they had done. After consulting the First Presidency and other prominent brethren with regard to the feasibility of the undertaking, and receiving encouragement respecting means for that purpose; it was decided for the L.D. Saint women to inaugurate a Hospital. Accordingly an organization was formed, entitled “Deseret Hospital Association”— consisting of a Board of Directors— House Surgeon—Matron—etc., etc., and I was required to preside, which although acknowledging the honor conferred, I accepted with the greatest reluctance—reluctance that approached nearly to obstinacy. I saw at once that we were grasping a Mammoth—that as we had to commence at the bed-rock—build-additions, make repairs in the building, and fit up in every department, much thought, labor, and time must be devoted in that direction. I realized the great need, and the importance of the movement, and did not feel to shrink from my labor or responsibility, but when my time was all occupied, as it truly was at that time; for me to involve myself in other and untried duties, seemed nothing short of subscribing to neglect of those already resting upon me: but I obtained a promise that after the Hospital was in good running order, I might resign.
In connection with the “Board of Directors,” which consisted of ten ladies, I spent very much time—calling, and attending Board meetings —consulting, etc., etc., and succeeded beyond our most sanguine anticipations. Although many of our patients were unable to pay expenses for treatment, by liberal donations we were enabled to fit up the building, supply each department, and pay our work-hands, nurses, etc., etc. But our remuneration consisted in the consciousness of doing our duty, and in the sweet enjoyment which follows extending relief to suffering humanity—not one of us received one cent for our services—we were not hirelings, dollars and cents, with us personally, were out of the question.
I retained the position of President nearly two years, when I resigned, and Bishop H. B. Clawson succeeded me, retaining the original Board. And here I must say, that my associations with the members of that Board, in the struggles, labors, trials, and success, in starting out in a new direction, have very strongly endeared them to me, I trust never to be severed from my affections.
Since my resignation as President of the “Hospital Association,” I have had no time to be idle. Visiting as-sociations, organizing, etc.—officiating in sacred ordinances in the “House of the Lord”—administering to the sick—writing for publication —proof-reading, in connection with an extensive correspondence and other et ceteras, keep me fully employed. And, at this period of my life, to be able to perform the many duties, and labors of love required of me, is certainly worthy of a higher tribute of gratitude to God, the Giver of all good, than I am capable of expressing.
—Thus closes "Sketch of My Life”
E. R. SNOW SMITH
YES, I WOULD BE A SAINT
My heart is fix'd—I know in whom I trust.
'Twas not for wealth—'twas not to gather heaps
Of perishable things—'twas not to twine
Around my brow, a transitory wreath--
A garland deck'd with gems of mortal praise,
That I forsook the home of childhood: that
I left the lap of ease—the halo rife
With friendship's richest, deep, and mellow tones--
Affection's fond caresses, and the cup
O'erflowing with the sweets of social life,
With high refinement's golden pearls enriched.
Ah, no! a holier purpose fired my soul--
A nobler object prompted my pursuit:
Eternal prospects opened to my view,
And Hope Celestial in my bosom glow'd.
God, who commanded Abraham to leave
His native country, and to offer up
On the lone altar, where no eye beheld
But that which never sleeps, his fav'rite son,
Is still the same; and thousands who have made
A covenant with Him by sacrifice,
Are bearing witness to the sacred truth,
Jehovah speaking has reveal ’d His will.
The proclamation sounded in my ear--
It reached my heart—I listen'd to the sound--
Counted the cost, and laid my earthly all
Upon the altar, and with purpose fix'd
Unalterably, while the spirit of
Elijah's God within my bosom reigns,
Embraced the Everlasting Covenant
* * * *
It is no trifling thing to be a Saint
In very deed—to stand upright, nor bow,
Nor bend beneath the heavy pressure of
Oppressiveness—to stand unscathed amid
The bellowing thunders and the raging storm
Of persecution, when the hostile powers
Of darkness stimulate the hearts of men
To warfare—to besiege, assault, and with
The heavy thunderbolts of Satan, aim
To overthrow the kingdom God has rear'd.
To stand unmoved upon the withering rack
Of vile apostasy, when men depart
From the pure principles of righteousness--
Those principles requiring man to live
By every word proceeding from the mouth
Of God—to stand unwavering, undismay'd
And unseduced, when the base hypocrite
Whose deeds take hold on hell, whose face is garbed
With saintly looks drawn out by sacrilege,
From the profession, but assumed and thrown
Around him for a mantle, to enclose
The black corruption of a putrid heart--
To stand on virtue's lofty pinnacle,
Clad in the robes of heavenly innocence,
Amid that worse than every other blast,
The blast that strikes at moral character,
With floods of falsehood foaming with abuse--
To stand with nerve and sinew firmly steeled,
When, in the trying scale of rapid change,
Thrown face to face, and side by side to that
Foul hearted spirit, blacker than the soul
Of midnight's darkest shade, the traitor, the
Vile wretch that feeds his sordid selfishness
Upon the peace and blood of innocence;
The faithless, rotten-hearted wretch, whose tongue
Speaks words of trust and fond fidelity,
While treachery, like a viper, coils behind
The smile that dances in his evil eye--
To pass the fiery ordeal, and to have
The heart laid open, all its contents strewed
Before the bar of strictest scrutiny;
To feel the finest heart-strings drawn unto
Their utmost tension, and their texture proved.
And yet, although to be a Saint requires
A noble sacrifice, an arduous toil,
A persevering aim; the great reward
Awaiting the grand consummation, will
Repay the price, however costly; and
The pathway of the Saint, the safest path
Will prove, though perilous; for 'tis decreed
All things that can be shaken, God will shake;
Kingdoms and Governments and Institutes,
Both civil and religious, must be tried--
Tried to the core, and sounded to the depth.
Then let me be a Saint, and be prepared
For the approaching day, which like a snare
Will soon surprise the hypocrite—expose
The rottenness of human schemes—shake off
Oppressive fetters—break the gorgeous reins
Usurpers hold, and lay the pride of man--
The pride of nations, low in dust!
BURY ME QUIETLY WHEN I DIE
On the “iron rod” I have laid my hold;
If I “keep the faith,” and like Paul of old,
Shall have “fought the good fight,” and Christ, the Lord
Has a crown in store, with a full reward
Of the Holy Priesthood in fulness, rife
With the gifts and the powers of an endless life,
And a glorious mansion for me on high;
Bury me quietly when I die.
I am aiming to earn a celestial crown--
To merit a heavenly, approv'd renown;
And whether in grave or in tomb I am laid--
Beneath the tall oak or the cypress shade;
Whether at home with dear friends around,
Or in distant lands upon stranger ground--
Under wintry clouds or a summer sky;
Bury me quietly when I die.
When my spirit ascends to the world above
To unite with the choirs in celestial love;
Let the finger of silence control the bell,
To restrain the chime of a funeral knell--
Let no mourning strain—not a sound be heard
By which a sad pulse of the heart is stirr'd--
No note of sorrow to prompt a sigh;
Bury me quietly when I die.
What avail the parade and the splendor here,
To a legal heir to a heavenly sphere?
To the heirs of salvation, what is the worth,
In their perishing state, the frail things of earth?
What is death, to the good, but an entrance gate,
That is placed on the verge of a rich estate,
Where commissioned escorts are waiting by?
Bury me quietly when I die.
Like a beacon that rises o'er ocean's wave,
There's a light—there's a life beyond the grave;
The future is bright, and it beckons me on
Where the noble and pure and the brave have gone,
Who have battled for truth with their mind and might,
With their garments clean and their armor bright:
They are dwelling with God, in a world on high:
Bury me quietly when I die.
—Eliza R. Snow Smith
Salt Lake City, Utah,
April 13, 1885.
Sketch Of My Life
Eliza R. Snow Smith
CHAPTER VIII
ALTHOUGH two Hospitals, St. Mark’s and St. Mary’s had been established in Salt Lake City by their respective religious de-nominations, the Latter-day Saints felt the need of one of their own where the sick and maimed, who de-sired, could have the sacred ordinances of anointing with oil and laying on of hands administered without being exposed to the con-tempt and ridicule of those who ignored them. But the means, labors, and attention of our people being necessarily directed in so many channels, that in cases in which Hospital appliances were indispensably requisite for the alleviation of suffering humanity, we patronized those in operation.
Leading “Mormon” women have, from time to time, suggested that we make a move in the direction of a Hospital of our own, but without lo-cation, building, and without funds, to start out in an enterprise of such magnitude seemed preposterous even to the most sanguine. At one time, President Young proposed to me, if I would take charge, and preside over the Institution, he would donate a certain Lot, on which was a moderately sized house, for the commencement of a Hospital, of which he would give a warrantee deed for that purpose. But at that time my labors and responsibilities were such as rendered it an utter impossibility for me to accept the proposal and, as he declined entrusting it to another, the generous offer passed from our reach; but the want of a Hospital of our own grew more ap-parent year by year until in 1881-2, when in the minds of several “Mormon” women it was settled as a necessity, and the idea was coincided in by some of the leading men.
In the Spring following, the “Catholic Sisters,” who for seven years had conducted St. Mary’s Hospital on premises which they rented, were going to vacate them, which suggested an opportunity for us to obtain the place by paying rent as they had done. After consulting the First Presidency and other prominent brethren with regard to the feasibility of the undertaking, and receiving encouragement respecting means for that purpose; it was decided for the L.D. Saint women to inaugurate a Hospital. Accordingly an organization was formed, entitled “Deseret Hospital Association”— consisting of a Board of Directors— House Surgeon—Matron—etc., etc., and I was required to preside, which although acknowledging the honor conferred, I accepted with the greatest reluctance—reluctance that approached nearly to obstinacy. I saw at once that we were grasping a Mammoth—that as we had to commence at the bed-rock—build-additions, make repairs in the building, and fit up in every department, much thought, labor, and time must be devoted in that direction. I realized the great need, and the importance of the movement, and did not feel to shrink from my labor or responsibility, but when my time was all occupied, as it truly was at that time; for me to involve myself in other and untried duties, seemed nothing short of subscribing to neglect of those already resting upon me: but I obtained a promise that after the Hospital was in good running order, I might resign.
In connection with the “Board of Directors,” which consisted of ten ladies, I spent very much time—calling, and attending Board meetings —consulting, etc., etc., and succeeded beyond our most sanguine anticipations. Although many of our patients were unable to pay expenses for treatment, by liberal donations we were enabled to fit up the building, supply each department, and pay our work-hands, nurses, etc., etc. But our remuneration consisted in the consciousness of doing our duty, and in the sweet enjoyment which follows extending relief to suffering humanity—not one of us received one cent for our services—we were not hirelings, dollars and cents, with us personally, were out of the question.
I retained the position of President nearly two years, when I resigned, and Bishop H. B. Clawson succeeded me, retaining the original Board. And here I must say, that my associations with the members of that Board, in the struggles, labors, trials, and success, in starting out in a new direction, have very strongly endeared them to me, I trust never to be severed from my affections.
Since my resignation as President of the “Hospital Association,” I have had no time to be idle. Visiting as-sociations, organizing, etc.—officiating in sacred ordinances in the “House of the Lord”—administering to the sick—writing for publication —proof-reading, in connection with an extensive correspondence and other et ceteras, keep me fully employed. And, at this period of my life, to be able to perform the many duties, and labors of love required of me, is certainly worthy of a higher tribute of gratitude to God, the Giver of all good, than I am capable of expressing.
—Thus closes "Sketch of My Life”
E. R. SNOW SMITH
YES, I WOULD BE A SAINT
My heart is fix'd—I know in whom I trust.
'Twas not for wealth—'twas not to gather heaps
Of perishable things—'twas not to twine
Around my brow, a transitory wreath--
A garland deck'd with gems of mortal praise,
That I forsook the home of childhood: that
I left the lap of ease—the halo rife
With friendship's richest, deep, and mellow tones--
Affection's fond caresses, and the cup
O'erflowing with the sweets of social life,
With high refinement's golden pearls enriched.
Ah, no! a holier purpose fired my soul--
A nobler object prompted my pursuit:
Eternal prospects opened to my view,
And Hope Celestial in my bosom glow'd.
God, who commanded Abraham to leave
His native country, and to offer up
On the lone altar, where no eye beheld
But that which never sleeps, his fav'rite son,
Is still the same; and thousands who have made
A covenant with Him by sacrifice,
Are bearing witness to the sacred truth,
Jehovah speaking has reveal ’d His will.
The proclamation sounded in my ear--
It reached my heart—I listen'd to the sound--
Counted the cost, and laid my earthly all
Upon the altar, and with purpose fix'd
Unalterably, while the spirit of
Elijah's God within my bosom reigns,
Embraced the Everlasting Covenant
* * * *
It is no trifling thing to be a Saint
In very deed—to stand upright, nor bow,
Nor bend beneath the heavy pressure of
Oppressiveness—to stand unscathed amid
The bellowing thunders and the raging storm
Of persecution, when the hostile powers
Of darkness stimulate the hearts of men
To warfare—to besiege, assault, and with
The heavy thunderbolts of Satan, aim
To overthrow the kingdom God has rear'd.
To stand unmoved upon the withering rack
Of vile apostasy, when men depart
From the pure principles of righteousness--
Those principles requiring man to live
By every word proceeding from the mouth
Of God—to stand unwavering, undismay'd
And unseduced, when the base hypocrite
Whose deeds take hold on hell, whose face is garbed
With saintly looks drawn out by sacrilege,
From the profession, but assumed and thrown
Around him for a mantle, to enclose
The black corruption of a putrid heart--
To stand on virtue's lofty pinnacle,
Clad in the robes of heavenly innocence,
Amid that worse than every other blast,
The blast that strikes at moral character,
With floods of falsehood foaming with abuse--
To stand with nerve and sinew firmly steeled,
When, in the trying scale of rapid change,
Thrown face to face, and side by side to that
Foul hearted spirit, blacker than the soul
Of midnight's darkest shade, the traitor, the
Vile wretch that feeds his sordid selfishness
Upon the peace and blood of innocence;
The faithless, rotten-hearted wretch, whose tongue
Speaks words of trust and fond fidelity,
While treachery, like a viper, coils behind
The smile that dances in his evil eye--
To pass the fiery ordeal, and to have
The heart laid open, all its contents strewed
Before the bar of strictest scrutiny;
To feel the finest heart-strings drawn unto
Their utmost tension, and their texture proved.
And yet, although to be a Saint requires
A noble sacrifice, an arduous toil,
A persevering aim; the great reward
Awaiting the grand consummation, will
Repay the price, however costly; and
The pathway of the Saint, the safest path
Will prove, though perilous; for 'tis decreed
All things that can be shaken, God will shake;
Kingdoms and Governments and Institutes,
Both civil and religious, must be tried--
Tried to the core, and sounded to the depth.
Then let me be a Saint, and be prepared
For the approaching day, which like a snare
Will soon surprise the hypocrite—expose
The rottenness of human schemes—shake off
Oppressive fetters—break the gorgeous reins
Usurpers hold, and lay the pride of man--
The pride of nations, low in dust!
BURY ME QUIETLY WHEN I DIE
On the “iron rod” I have laid my hold;
If I “keep the faith,” and like Paul of old,
Shall have “fought the good fight,” and Christ, the Lord
Has a crown in store, with a full reward
Of the Holy Priesthood in fulness, rife
With the gifts and the powers of an endless life,
And a glorious mansion for me on high;
Bury me quietly when I die.
I am aiming to earn a celestial crown--
To merit a heavenly, approv'd renown;
And whether in grave or in tomb I am laid--
Beneath the tall oak or the cypress shade;
Whether at home with dear friends around,
Or in distant lands upon stranger ground--
Under wintry clouds or a summer sky;
Bury me quietly when I die.
When my spirit ascends to the world above
To unite with the choirs in celestial love;
Let the finger of silence control the bell,
To restrain the chime of a funeral knell--
Let no mourning strain—not a sound be heard
By which a sad pulse of the heart is stirr'd--
No note of sorrow to prompt a sigh;
Bury me quietly when I die.
What avail the parade and the splendor here,
To a legal heir to a heavenly sphere?
To the heirs of salvation, what is the worth,
In their perishing state, the frail things of earth?
What is death, to the good, but an entrance gate,
That is placed on the verge of a rich estate,
Where commissioned escorts are waiting by?
Bury me quietly when I die.
Like a beacon that rises o'er ocean's wave,
There's a light—there's a life beyond the grave;
The future is bright, and it beckons me on
Where the noble and pure and the brave have gone,
Who have battled for truth with their mind and might,
With their garments clean and their armor bright:
They are dwelling with God, in a world on high:
Bury me quietly when I die.
—Eliza R. Snow Smith
Salt Lake City, Utah,
April 13, 1885.