Daniel Tyler Chronology
(An effort by Donna Bliss to put these events in order to resolve some of my confusion)
2 Nov. 1816 - Born at Sempronius, Cayuga, New York.
About 1820 - Daniel saw a vision and understood it to mean he would be restored to health and that he had a special mission to perform.
About 1823 - Tylers moved to Springfield, Erie, PA
1829 - Daniel’s Grandfather Tyler saw a vision of an angel who said his family would live to see the true church established again on the earth.
Dec. 1823 - Hyram Smith came and converted the Tyler Family to the Church.
(Same period of time Jared Carter converted Welton Family)
16 Jan 1833 - Daniel is baptized by Lincoln Hoskins. A hole had to be cut through the ice in Lake Erie before he could be baptized.
Prob. 1833 - Tylers moved to Kirtland, Ohio
1834 - Zion’s Camp. Daniel was only 17 ½ years old. The life sketch someone did of him says he was in Zion’s Camp. There is some question in my mind about it because as far as I know he did not mention it and I have no other source. His age makes it marginally possible.
About 1835 - His life sketch says he attended School of the Prophets. Included in his writings we have are some details about the builders of the Kirtland Temple. Also about hearing Joseph Smith pray during this period. He was at the Kirtland Temple dedication and received his partial endowment there.
11 Apr. 1836 - “Father Tyler” (Andrews) mentioned as being restored to fellowship in a meeting at Kirtland.
1836 - Kirtland Camp. Daniel did not leave Kirtland with that group although an Elder Tyler is mentioned in the writings about it. It had to have been a different Tyler.
11 Sep 1836 - Married to Ruth Welton in Kirtland
12 Sep 1836 - Left for Caldwell Co., Missouri with Ruth and his father’s family. They wintered in Lake County, Indiana.
2 May 1837 - Daniel’s father died on the journey at Bloomfield, Indiana. Daniel’s brother Comfort, 19 years old (2 years younger than Daniel) fell from a horse here and received injuries from which he died 3 weeks later at Huntsville, Missouri.
3 Aug 1837 - Arrived at Far West Missouri and bought 10 acres at the eastern part of the city. Ruth said that Mother Tyler also purchased a small farm but had to leave it to the mobbers.
1838 - Persecutions in Missouri raged. Ruth gave poignant account of taking up a pitchfork to defend home and fully expecting to die at the hands of the mobbers. Daniel wrote about Sidney Rigdon’s “Salt Sermon” and the repercussions. He also gave a touching account of how Joseph Smith forgave an errant brother.
Dec. 1838 - Daniel had a vision in which he was told to call his father home from the grave. (64 years later in a blessing he was told that he would call up his dead.)
29 Jan 1839 - Signed a covenant with others in Far West to assist each other in leaving Missouri. (His name on list of those filing claim against State of Missouri. His losses listed as $301.50.) He wrote an article in which he told of Haun’s Mill and said those people had not heeded the Prophet’s call to come into town for safety. Ruth also mentions Haun’s Mill in her autobiography but neither says they were actually there. I believe they were not. They just mentioned it as part of the Caldwell County persecutions.
13 Feb 1839 - Tylers left Far West, arriving at Exeter on the 3rd of March. They paused there briefly (with Ruth’s parents, I believe) before continuing on to Pike’s County.
4 Jun 1839 - Were in Griggsville, Pikes County, Illinois where Perintha Olive was born on that date.
1840 - Daniel ordained an elder by Harrison Burgess and called to go on a mission to the southern states. (Wonder if he was really ordained a Seventy here because he must have been an elder while in Kirtland, attending the School of the Prophets and having his endowment. Later the same date, 24 Sep 1844, is given for him being ordained a Seventy and a High Priest, which had to have been in error.)
Early March, 1840 - He was in Scott County, Illinois, teaching. Missionaries were instructed to teach on the way to their field of labor, which he did. He taught also in Morgan and Green Counties, baptizing 23 people before going on.
Dec 1840 - Left by water to go to Mississippi.
1841 - Ruth and Perintha joined him in Mississippi for last year of his mission.
6 Apr 1841 - Wrote a letter from Copiah County, Mississippi telling about the success of the work and the urgent need for more missionaries there.
Oct 1842 - Returned home from mission, probably to Griggsville, Pike Co., Illinois.
10 Apr 1843 - Called again to go to Mississippi (Natchez) on a mission. Uncertain when he actually left. Brethren were told to arrange for the welfare of their families before departing on missions.
Sep 1843 - Ruth had twin girls at Griggsville, Pikes Co., Illinois. Both died within two months.
June 1844 - Daniel in Mississippi at time of martyrdom of the Prophet. Soon Ruth heard that Daniel had been murdered. She did not know different until October.
24 Sep 1844 - Daniel ordained High Priest (one account says Seventy) and appointed to preside over the Southern District of the Mississippi Mission.
Oct 1844 - Elders called home for Conference. Ruth went, hoping to see Daniel there, alive and well. He had just arrived on the steamship and they met on the road. She did not at first recognize him because he was so bloated from having been poisoned with buttermilk by one of the enemies of the Church. That was the first she knew for sure he was not dead as reported. They saw the mantle of Prophet Joseph fall on Brigham Young and both understood it the same way.
12 Sep 1845 - Tylers apparently living in community of Yelrome (not on map but probably in Hancock County, not far from Nauvoo). Daniel wrote a letter from there on this date offering a proposition to the mobs. It did no good and they shortly had to move to Nauvoo for safety.
Also Sep 1845 - Tylers moved to Nauvoo. Ruth was born there in October and died the same
month. Ruth joined the Female Relief Society there.
No date given - Daniel’s life sketch says he was a member of the Nauvoo Legion. Not aware of him having written on the subject but it would have been only briefly because they were not in Nauvoo very long.
June 1846 - Crossed the Mississippi River and moved on to Pisgah.
16 Jul 1846 - Daniel volunteered for the Mormon Battalion at Pisgah. Also Ruth’s brother, David. Ruth proceeded to Council Bluffs, Iowa.
28 Jan 1847 - Emily Percinda born to Ruth in Winter Quarters (Council Bluffs, Iowa).
30 Jan 1847 - Mormon Battalion arrived in San Diego.
16 Oct 1847 - Daniel arrived in Salt Lake from California.
18 Oct 1847 - Daniel departed Salt Lake heading for Winter Quarters to join Ruth. He later wrote a very interesting account of the trip which we’re so happy to have at last (thanks to Marsha!)
18 Dec 1847 - Daniel arrived at Winter Quarters and is united with Ruth and two daughters.
June 1848 - Tylers left with Amasa Lyman’s Emigration Company to cross the Plains.
18 Oct 1848 - Arrived at Mouth of Emigration Canyon. Settled in Little Cottonwood.
25 Oct 1848 - Baby girl born and died same day.
Early 1849 - Moved to Salt Lake -- 10th Ward.
22 Feb 1849 - Daniel called to be first counselor to Bishop David Pettigrew.
22 Nov 1849 -(This date according to an article in The Juvenile Instructor. Earlier than given in his life sketch) Daniel badly injured in wagon accident. His head was ran over and
leg badly broken. He was housebound for 3 months and 7 months on a crutch).
27 Jan 1850 - Daniel Moroni born in Salt Lake City.
Summer 1850 - A Sister Moore prophesied his leg would heal and he would go on a foreign mission and preach in 4 languages and return with many sheaves. All came true.
12 Sep 1851 - Fitz Henry born. Lived one year.
April 1853 - Called on European Mission (See Journal)
27 Nov 1855 - Released from mission presidency because of poor health. Went to England and visited Conferences there until departure.
18 Feb 1856 - Left Liverpool on ship “Caravan” as leader of 457 members.
24 Mar 1856 - Landed in New York. Remained 4 days at Castle Gardens, then proceeded to Iowa. He later wrote an article about the voyage.
5 Apr 1856 - Arrived at Iowa City, Iowa with his group.
June 1856 - Called to be Bishop of L.D.S. Camp waiting to cross plains.
25 Aug 1856 - Departed in Edward martin’s Handcart Company. He was counselor to the captain and chaplain of the company. He wrote this in a Juvenile Instructor article and as of now it is all we have of his writings about that trip: “I was captain of a shipload of about 400 Saints crossing the Atlantic Ocean, and counselor to Captain Edward Martin of the latest company of handcarts in 1856, and by his request saw all out of camp in the morning and in camp at night, besides being chaplain of the company and having to oversee the burying of the dead, besides other arduous duties under perhaps the most trying circumstances of any company that ever traveled among the Saints in this dispensation. Our company from Iowa City to Winter Quarters numbered over 300 souls: from that point Elder Jesse Hanen having charge of a company of between three and four hundred was called to other duties and this company was added, making hard upon 700. We arrived in Salt Lake November 30, 1856. Thus was fulfilled the last item of to me the then marvelous predictions (Sister Moore’s prophesies).”
30 Nov 1856 - Company arrived in Salt Lake and he returned home to Tenth Ward.
1857 - Called to take a posse of militia to Echo Canyon to watch the movements of Johnston’s Army. His family would be among those who left Salt Lake and moved south until the threat was over.
19 Oct 1862 - Called to Southern Utah (Pine Valley) to help strengthen a weak settlement. He taught school there and they stayed 3 years.
Sometime in 1865 - Called to Beaver, Utah, again to help strengthen a weak settlement.
No date given - Member of Beaver’s first High Council.
No date given - Served as counselor to John Hughes in the presidency of the High Priests Quorum. Quote from “Monuments to Courage” (History of Beaver County):
“Among the prominent citizens of Beaver was Daniel Tyler who had been president of the Swiss Mission prior to his residence in Beaver. A member of the Mormon Battalion.... He was a deep student, gifted in writing and teaching, and added greatly to the growth and stability of the community. ...Was recognized as an authority in the doctrines and teachings of the Church.
12 Mar 1866 - Beaver Stake established with John R. Murdock as president, William Fotheringham as first counselor and Daniel Tyler as 2nd counselor.
No date given - Daniel served as Justice of the Peace in Beaver.
No date given - Daniel Tyler, a member of the Mormon Battalion and a member of considerable literary ability, taught school for a short time in the log Tithing Office.” (Monuments to Courage)
January 1871 - Daniel Tyler dedicated the new Relief Society Building.
I Nov 1872 - Ruth called to be first counselor in the Relief Society.
10 Dec 1873 - Daniel Tyler ordained Patriarch in Beaver Stake. He held other offices at same time.
6 Jun 1876 - Ruth called to be president of the Relief Society.
25 Jul 1877 - Daniel released as member of the stake presidency.
26 Jul 1877 - Daniel called to be president of the High Priests Quorum with James Farrer and George Eyre as counselors.
About 1881 - Daniel Tyler wrote book on Mormon battalion.
6 Dec 1886 - Beaver divided into two wards. Ruth called as president of Beaver First Ward Relief Society.
5 Mar 1897 - Ruth called to be Stake Relief Society president.
14 Mar 1897 - Ruth Welton Tyler died.
About 1900 - Daniel sold his Beaver home for $800 and went to live with his daughter (?)
7 Nov 1906 - Daniel died at nearly 90 years of age.
Writings About Or By Daniel Tyler:
1. His life sketch done by someone else.
2. Autobiography of Ruth Welton Tyler.
3. His “A Concise History of the Mormon Battalion Book.”.
4. His Missionary Journal.
5. “An Unexpected Conversion” by Daniel Tyler in The Juvenile Instructor.
6. “A Dream” by Daniel Tyler in Juvenile Instructor (about salvation for the dead)
7. Recollections of the Prophet articles in the Juvenile Instructor by Daniel Tyler:
a. About Sidney Rigdon’s “Salt Sermon.”
About Joseph Smith’s forgiveness
About conversation with Isaac Behunin.
b. Description of Prophet when he met him.
His testimony.
About Haun’s Mill Massacre.
c. About hearing Joseph Smith pray.
5. “Predictions Fulfilled” - from The Juvenile Instructor telling about mission to Europe and a little about the Martin Handcart Company.
6. Improvement Era article including comments by Daniel Tyler about building the Kirtland Temple and sacrifices made by brethren.
7. Letter he wrote to President Snow 23 Aug 1900 regarding who was appointed historian of the Mormon Battalion.
8. Daniel’s writings about the trip of the ship Caravan in 1856. This had not been included in his missionary journal.
9. Daniel’s letter of 2 Feb 1856 to President Richards giving a synopsis of his mission in Switzerland.
10. Letter to Times and Seasons 6 Apr 1841 telling of laboring in Illinois on way to Mississippi -- in Scott, Morgan and Green Counties. Preached there until December 1840, baptizing 23. Then went to Mississippi by water. He baptized only 5 in Mississippi. Begs for more elders to help with the work.
NOTES FROM "MONUMENTS TO COURAGE,
A HISTORY OF BEAVER COUNTY"
REGARDING OUR ANCESTORS
DANIEL AND RUTH WELTON TYLER AND FAMILY
1. Near the front are pictures of Daniel and Ruth. They are the same pictures we have in our Books of Remembrance.
2. Page 70 (in regard to school teachers). "Daniel Tyler, a member of the Mormon Battalion and a man of considerable literary ability, taught for a short time in the log Tithing Office where the West Ward church now stands."
3. Page 111 (I think this reference applies to our grandfather, Daniel, rather than to our great grandfather). The heading is "The Deseret Telegraph." "About 1865, the Deseret Telegraph Company had extended its lines as far south as Beaver and shortly thereafter to Pioche, Nevada, a now nationally-known mining camp. This brought Beaver into telegraphic communication with Salt Lake City and points east. Beaver than became the point of diversion for the Overland Stages, one line continuing on to St. George, the diversion here for Pioche. Among the very early telegraph operators were William Fotheringham, thought to be the first, Robert Fotheringham, as second, and Daniel Tyler, third."
4. Page 116. "Among the prominent citizens of Beaver (1867) was Daniel Tyler, who had been president of the Swiss Mission prior to his residence in Beaver. A member of the Mormon Battalion in 1856-7 (sic), and later the author of a book entitled "The Mormon Battalion." He was a deep student, gifted in writing and teaching, and added greatly to the growth and stability of the community. For some time prior to this date, 1867, he served as counselor to John Hughes in the presidency of the High Priest's Quorum and was recognized as an authority in the doctrines and teachings of the dominant Church."
5. Page 118 (the reorganization of the stake in July, 1891. "High Priests Quorum: Daniel Tyler as president, James Farrer and George Eyre as counselors....
6. Page 119 under heading "History of Beaver Stake." "Beaver Stake is the eighth oldest in the west. It was established March 12, 1866, with John R. Murdock as president; William Fotheringham as first and Daniel Tyler as second counselors.... (it lists presidencies until 1902 and then says): The first High Council was as follows: Orrice C. Murdock, James Farrer, Daniel Tyler,, James Low....
7. Page 130 under heading "Organization of the Female Relief Society of Beaver Stake." "In 1871, President Young called the Relief Society to gather wheat. Lucinda Howd was set apart by president Young for this head. She, with eight women, went into the fields to glean.
"After three years of hard work and planning, a lot was paid for and a substantial brick building erected, painted and carpeted. It was dedicated in January, 1871, by Daniel Tyler. Members of the Priesthood were always present at testimony meetings. Work meetings were held sometimes three times a week, if necessary.
"November 1, 1872, Lucinda Howd was made president, with Ruth Tyler and Jane Gillies as counselors.
"June 6th, 1876, Ruth Tyler went in as president of the society, with Eliza Hawkins and Ann Levi as counselors: Mary E. Shepherd Ashworth, secretary and treasurer. Donations, from 3 pounds of flour, ½ dozen eggs, to $20 in cash, were received. Report at this time shows $100 in Co-op Store, $25 share in Women's Book, articles on hand $110.35, had rock building in course of erection, 24x30 ft., for storing of grain and establishment of industries, and 15 1/4 bushels of wheat. Membership was 82, including 24 officers."
On December 6, 1886, the ward was divided. "Lucinda Howd was made Relief Society stake president. Ruth W. Tyler was president of the First Ward Relief Society, with Jane Baldwin and Charlotte Carlow as counselors."
"Beaver wards were consolidated in 1891. Ruth Tyler was made president with Jane Bickley and Louisa Jones as counselors.
"In 1897, President Ruth Tyler was chosen by President C.D. White to act as stake president.... These officers carried on until the ward was again divided in 1905. (obvious error)
8. Page 132 under heading: "Beaver Stake Relief Society Presidents." "Beaver Stake Relief Society was organized September 6, 1879. John R. Murdock called Lucinda Howd as president.... Those years were devoted to caring for the sick, sewing for the dead, and general pioneer work. President Howd served her stake well until March 5, 1897, when she met with an accident and was released.... On March 5, 1897, Ruth W. Tyler was called to fill the vacancy. Mary A. White and Cedaressa C. Shepherd were her counselors.... The 14th of April, 1897, President Tyler passed to the Great Beyond."
9. Page 151 under "Beaver Tithing Office." "It was here that High Council Trials were held and where justice was meted out by Daniel Tyler, Justice of the Peace...."
Daniel Tyler Autobiography
This in his own handwriting:
Daniel Tyler, son of Andrews and Elizabeth Comins Tyler. Born Sempronius, Cayuga County, New York on 23rd November, 1816 and descended from Job and Mary Tyler who emigrated to America about the year 1816 or 1620. Among ancestors on my father’s side I find several very prominent men in the early settlement of the state of Massachusetts, where they were mostly born.
My mother’s father was regimental quartermaster in the War of the Revolution. His father and five brothers served in the same way and were in many hard fought battles. Three of my mother’s brothers fought for their country in the War of 1812; one of whom (Joseph Comins) is supposed to have frozen to death with several others near Detroit, Michigan while pursuing British Indians.
When I was about four years old, I was ill with chronic diarrhea, some six or more months. The family lived in a log cabin. I had occasion to get up one dark night, when all of a sudden the house was lighter than the sun at noonday. I looked into the fireplace supposing a smouldering stick of wood must have blazed. But what was my surprise to see only a little sign of fire coals through the embers. I looked at the clothing hanging on the wall, which was then the general custom. They were all in place, unchanged except that the bright light gave to everything a white appearance. The upper floor was rough planks laid down loose. The joists being low, my father made a small aperture whereby to put his tools such as saw, hatchet, and etc.
It occurred to me to cast my eyes upward and see whether that place looked natural. My object being to learn whether I was dreaming or whether it was a reality. There I beheld a transparent hand and wrist, with wrist band whiter than the pure snow. Being determined to learn whether all this was a dream or reality, I called to my mother, who was sleeping in the same room. I had to call the second time before she awoke. I inquired who was upstairs, or as we termed it “up chamber.” She replied, no one, and if there was, it is so dark you could not see them. I replied, it is as light as day and I could see a pin on the floor. She then told me to lie down, which I did, and had no sooner covered myself with the bed clothes than all of a sudden it became so dark, I placed my hand before my face, but could not see it. Thus ended the vision.
I slept soundly until morning, when I arose like a new child, full of health and vitality. Having still a desire to know whether all this was a dream, I asked my mother whether I was up in the night. She answered, yes. Then I inquired if I asked who was up chamber. This was also answered in the affirmative. My mother questioned me very closely, when I stated to her in substance as above written. I shall never forget her tears and first remark when I was through. “Ah, my child, I fear you are not long for this world.” It was soon voiced abroad and I suppose my mother had more visitors that week than in a year previous, and to each I had to relate the vision. Weeks and months rolled on and I was still alive and well. The family and friends then concluded that the Lord had a work for me to do. The vision must have been in the fall of 1820.
In October, 1823, my father with his family of six sons and one daughter removed to the township of Springfield, Erie Co., Pennsylvania. Here I trust I shall not be accused of being given to the marvelous if I relate two or three rather marvelous events.
My grandfather was a Free Will Baptist. My father made no profession, but leaned towards the Friend Quakers. On reading the 16th chapter of Mark, my father remarked that there was not a believer in the world if the 17th verse was true. His father read it several times over and was finally filled with the Spirit of Prophecy and told my father that he would live to see the true church arise, but as to himself, he should not live to see it. My grandfather died in 1829 and my father and most of his family heard the gospel through the preaching of Elders Orson Hyde and Samuel W. Smith, brother to the Prophet and witness to the Book of Mormon in 1832.
I was baptized about the 15th of January, 1833. Most of the family were baptized on the 10th. I soon received the gift of tongues, the interpretation of tongues, and prophecy. I also saw many things in vision, among which was the flowing down of the mountains of ice and the Ten Tribes led from the north country by a man whose head was white as the pure wool. His voice was like the voice of thunder and the host led by him marched four abreast. They were a terror to all people except the Saints. I saw subsequently great and terrible fires destroying whole cities, among them the great city of Boston was burned and left without inhabitants.
I should have said that my father, after being very bitter against the Saints for a time, was converted by his father appearing to him in dream, with a Mormon elder whom my father recognized at sight, although at that time he had never seen him. He described his features, the color of his clothes, his build etc. This man, my grandfather told my father, “was a minister of the true church,” and reminded him of his prediction when alive. That elder was no more or less than Levi W. Hancock, one of the first Seven presidents of Seventies. A ... [looks like ‘ermines’] scene of my grandfather having a dislocated shoulder replaced by faith will be found recorded in the Juvenile Instructor several years ago.
I was ordained a Priest under the hands of Lorenzo Wells, August 4th, 1834. This was my first ordination [age 17]. Three weeks after that time, I commenced traveling alone and preaching the gospel to a dark and benighted world. God was with me and I was never confounded. I was ordained an elder under the hands of Harrison Burges in 1839 [age 22 or 23] after being driven from Missouri. I was through all of the Missouri difficulties except those in Jackson County in 1833, and wish to bear my testimony that the history so far as published by authority of the church is true.
I might add many incidents of interest but I fear I shall be tedious. One circumstance related in the history of Joseph Smith I will offer an additional prediction and its fulfillment. It is related to Brother Allred (I could not say whether William or Isaac) was called upon, with ten volunteers, to go and intercept a box of guns which the mob had obtained in Richmond in Ray County in the fall of 1838, to take to Davies County to the mob. I was one of the ten. Joseph pointed the direction and said in a careless kind of way, “ride as fast as you can and you will get the guns.”
A man had walked 30 miles to bring the word, and we had to ride 20 miles across the prairie without a road to intercept them about 30 miles from where they started from. We rode at a brisk lope, when we struck the road they were on. We looked towards Richmond and saw a black carriage standing. We hastened to it and found it empty. On examination we found one of the axle trees newly broken, although the road was level and smooth as a house floor. We soon found a box containing seventy-four RLL. S. Yaugers. In a few minutes, three men from the mob came with team and wagon for the guns. We took them prisoners and required them to haul the guns to Far West. Thus was a very improbably prediction of the Prophet fulfilled.
I have traveled and preached in several of the United States, held quite a number of discussions and brought a goodly number into the Church. [The Biographical Encyclopedia says he was ordained a High Priest on September 24, 1844, by Brigham Young.]
I enlisted in the Mormon Battalion on the 16th of July, 1846 and served with honor; was appointed 4th Corporal of Company C at Ft. Levenworth, and 4th Sergeant at Santa Fe, which office I held when discharged. As I am writing a history of that Campaign, I need not say more on that here, only that we were discharged on the 16th of July 1847, after which, with others, I arrived at Winter Quarters on the 18th of December, 1847 with pack animals.
I started with my family in June, 1848 and arrived in Salt Lake Valley October 18, 1848, just one year from the day I passed through on my way to Council Bluffs.
In the spring of 1849 I was chosen first counselor to Bishop David Pettegrew of the 10th Ward, Salt Lake City, then called Great Salt Lake City.
At the April Conference, 1853, I was called on a mission to Europe. The waters were so high, I did not start until the 22nd or 23rd day of June. I think I arrived in Liverpool, England about October. On the first of January, 1854 I took the pastoral charge of London, Reading, Kent, and Essex Conferences, with headquarters at 35 Jewin Street, London.
The Pastoral Clerk was Brother J. C. Armstrong. He emigrated to Salt Lake in the spring following and on recommendation of Elder James Maesden, I took [name omitted] in his place. He wrote a fast, scrolling hand and but for his idle habits would have done very well so far as clerking went. He had a wife and a fine intelligent daughter of about four years. His wife, who was not in the Church, made complaints to me that he was too much in the company of lewd women and that his employer as a writer had intimated that he would be forced to dismiss him if he was not more punctual, which was subsequently done. He could write days for his employer and write up all that was needed in the pastoral office in the evening, his wife attending to selling books, pamphlets, etc. I paid the house rent and a stipulated price to him weekly for board and lodgings.
About August, I was called to Switzerland to preside over the Swiss, German, Italian and French Missions. I advised William H. Kimball who succeeded me in the English Mission to emigrate ... [the clerk] to Utah and get a more suitable clerk, which he did. In auditing the books which were hastily left without doing, it was ascertained that [the aforementioned clerk] had taken with him, after deducting his percent for selling, over 10 pounds -- about $50 of the book money.
The foreign elders were mainly ordered out of Switzerland during my stay, which was about 13 months. Seven months of which, I published The Darsteller in the German language. Notwithstanding the vigilance of the police, the Gospel continued to spread, not only in Switzerland and in other countries mentioned but I had the pleasure of sending it into Dresdon, the capital of Saxony, where Professor Karl G. Mazer [sic] and others believed the gospel through the letters and books I sent them. Elder William Budge was subsequently sent to teach, but not to baptize. The Apostle Franklin D. Richards, who presided over the European Mission, subsequently followed, and baptized nine persons and organized a Branch of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, with Bro. C. G. Mazer to preside.
My health being poor, I was released in January, 1856, to return home. After visiting a few weeks in England, I sailed in the ship “Caravan” William Sands Captain, for New York. After five weeks sail, with head winds nearly all the way, we arrived in N.Y. from whence I went to St. Lawrence County where I found Ira Comins, my mother’s brother and family, with whom I spent two weeks visiting, preaching, and getting the genealogy of my mother’s family, in which I succeeded very well. Then I went to Iowa City, Iowa Territory, and joined the Camp of Saints who were preparing to cross the plains to Utah with handcarts. I was called and set apart as Bishop of the Camp, where I remained until the last company started.
Elder Edward Martin was appointed Captain and I his counselor and chaplain. My health was poor, but when I saw the suffering of my brethren and sisters in consequence of the cold storms and scarcity of provisions, I plead mightily with the Lord and I was healed and became healthier than I had been for several years.
Elder Martin requested me to see everyone out of camp in the morning and in camp at night, which I did, he going ahead and looking out camping places etc. I also had to see to burying the dead, which in our company amounted to something over 90 during our over three months travel, out of over six hundred souls. The heavy snows set in at the upper crossing of the Platte about the first of October and continued during the rest of the journey, at intervals, the rest of the way.
Many was the night, after camping in scattered condition, as we sometimes must, that I have taken small children in my arms from the wagons and hunted their mothers who had pulled the cart, for over an hour before finding her campfire, where she would be cooking her scanty allowance of food. So stupefied that she was oblivious to everything else, even the tender child of two or three.
But these scenes are too painful. A detailed account would melt a heart of stone. We did our best, and many today congratulate us on saving their lives. While others, whom by utmost exertion we succeeded in saving, can scarcely think of anything too wicked and false to say about us.
I was called to southern Utah in 1862 [Pine Valley] and from there to Beaver in 1865, by President Brigham Young. I taught school until about 1870. Previously, on the 4th of March, 1867, I was elected Justice of the Peace for Beaver City, Utah Territory. I am now serving after my sixth bi-yearly election (12th Dec, 1870) which, when closed will make twelve years in that office. I have had many important cases. One in which a sewing machine was attacked at Ft. Cameron, wherein Henry Douglas Col. commanding resisted the sheriff (John M. Coombs) and wrote me that I might as well have sent him to the state of Nevada so far as jurisdiction was concerned. I maintained my position and the case went up to the Judge Advocate General, who sustained my ruling in every particular. His decision was of great importance to the city, as the Reservation joined the city lines.
On the second of January, I took editorial charge of the Beaver Chronicle, which I am now editing with general satisfaction. For further particulars, see my journals [would if we could].
I forgot to mention that I was ordained a Patriarch under the hands of President Brigham Young and George A. Smith on the 10th of December, 1873, since which time I have blessed several hundred people, telling many things known only to the parties and God. In one case casting out an evil sprit that had troubled a lad of about ten years for several years previous.
Daniel Tyler Records and Information During the 1850s Decade
February, 1849 -- The Salt Lake Tenth Ward was organized with David Petigrew as Bishop and Daniel Tyler as first counselor. A pole fence surrounding the ward was built in 1850 by men who contributed labor and money in proportion to the property they owned. To further protect the property, a stray pound was built where animals found roaming the streets were taken and 25 cents a day a head was charged until the owner came and took them away. A group of men rode around the fence surrounding the ward to see it was kept in good condition. They were known as fence watchers. A school was organized in Tenth Ward and when Daniel was there [before and after his European mission] he conducted and taught the school under the sanction of Bishop Pettigrew. At the time of its organization, the school numbered 110 students.
Prophecy of healing and the mission of Daniel Tyler. [His own account in his own words, printed in various publications.]
“I was at the time going on crutches, with a broken leg, and having but little hope of ever being able to walk. The leg was badly fractured and by getting out of place and having to be reset caused the bones to be very slow in knitting together. It was about seven months before I could bear any weight upon my broken limb. While in this condition, I went on my crutches to a little prayer meeting in a private house, there being no public meeting house then built in the ward.
In going to the meeting, my worst fears of always being a cripple had loomed up before me like a great mountain, and, like Jonah, I felt that “it was better for me to die than to live.” This was a weakness in me, of course, but so it was.
After the meeting was opened, Sister More arose and began to speak in tongues. She addressed her remarks to me, and I understood her as well as though she had spoken the English language. She said: “Your leg will be healed, and you will go on a foreign mission and preach the gospel in foreign lands. No harm shall befall you, and you shall return in safety, having great joy in your labors.”
This was the substance of the prophecy. It was so different from my own belief and the fears of many others that I was tempted not to give the interpretation, lest it should fail to come to pass. The Spirit, however, impressed me and I arose, leaning upon my crutches, and gave the interpretation.
Not long afterwards I was told in a dream what to do to strengthen my fractured limb, and it began to receive strength immediately, and in the short space of about one week I dispensed with my crutches and walked with a cane.
Mission Blessing and Setting Apart
by Ezra T. Benson
A blessing upon the head of Daniel Tyler, born in Sempronius, Cayuga County, New York, November 23, 1816, and appointed to take a mission to Europe from the Conference held at G.S.L. City in April, 1853. Ezra T. Benson pronounced this blessing.
Dear and beloved brother, in the name of Jesus Christ, and by the authority of the Holy Priesthood, we the servants of the Lord place our hands upon thy head, to set you apart to your mission that has been appointed unto you. And we bless thee in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and say thou shalt be blessed in as much as though wilt go forth with full purpose of heart to do the will of God, and carry out the counsel which has been given unto thee, and use the judgement God shall give thee to carry out and to build up his kingdom, to preach his gospel, and gather his saints to the valleys of the mountains.
Inasmuch as those principles shall dwell in thine heart, and thou wilt carry them out with all thy might, mind, and strength, and be diligent in serving the Lord thy God, no good thing shall be withheld from thee, but thou shall have all the power thy heart shall desire or that shall be wisdom to confer upon thee. The lord thy God’s hand shall be over thee, his invisible power shall be round about thee, to sustain thee in the hour of weakness, in the hours of trouble and trials. Therefore, put thy trust in Israel’s God and thou shall be preserved, for thy life shall be precious in the sight of the Lord.
Thou shalt go forth in power, and thy tongue shall be unloosed, wisdom shall be given unto thee, and words of wisdom shall come into thine heart that thou cannot now express, nor even comprehend. The way shall be opened before thee, and thou shall go forth to the place of thy destination, and be a comfort and a blessing to the Saints and bring many souls into the Kingdom of God.
We seal this blessing upon thee, and dedicate thee for this mission and consecrate and set thee apart, by the power and authority vested in us, and pray our Heavenly Father to bless thee, to be round about thee, that thou mayest have power over all wickedness, over the winds, and the waves, that thou mayest ride over the briny deep, in peace and safety, and be blessed even according as thou shalt desire. That everything may be fulfilled, even that thine heart can desire. Thou shall go in peace and safety and accomplish a good work, and return home to the bosom of the Church and thy family, and rejoice in the midst of the saints of the Lord.
To the utmost of thy powers, exercise faith in the name of Jesus Christ and every word that we have pronounced upon thy head shall be fulfilled, for we seal it upon thee in the name of Jesus Christ. And we ask our Heavenly Father to multiply blessings upon thy head until thy heart shall be satisfied, and filled with joy, and gladness, amid blessings in the Kingdom of God. We seal all these things upon thee in the name of Jesus Christ, and the glory shall be given to the Father and to the Son and Holy Spirit now and forever, Amen.
G.D. Watt, Reporter
For Daniel’s own account of his mission see his Missionary Journal, found elsewhere.
Appointment of Elder Daniel Tyler to the Pastoral Charge of the London, Reading, Kent, and Essex Conferences. November 7th, 1853. To Take Effect On and After the 1st January, 1854. S. W. Richards, President.
15 Wilton St. Liverpool
November 7th, 1853
Elder Daniel Tyler
Dear Brother:
You are hereby appointed to succeed Elder B. Brown, in the Pastoral charge of the London, Reading, Kent, and Essex Conferences.
It will be your duty to watch over them with paternal care, to counsel with, and advise their Presidents in all matters which may appear to you expedient. To promote the cause of righteousness and truth, and especially to see that those instructions which are given from time to time in the Star are carried out truly and faithfully among the Branches composing said Conferences, such as the setting apart of the most faithful and proper persons for the teaching and instruction of the Church; calling and ordaining men to preach the Gospel and open the same in new places, seeing that there are no doctrines taught among the Churches, except such as are commanded to be taught by the Revelations contained in the Doctrine & Covenants, by the Epistles of the Presidency of the British Churches from time to time.
You are also to render yourself familiar with the Book and Star agencies of those conferences, and to see that the Branch agents do not sell the work of the Church on credit; that the Conferences and Branches dispose of the surplus Stars [The Millennial Star publication] they may have on hand, that Tract Societies (if any exist) pay up for the publications which they may have purchased; and that all proper measures are abided, whether by Tract Societies or Book Clubs, to circulate the printed word; and, particularly, that the funds which arise from the sale of the publications are promptly remitted to this Office, so that the affairs of the publishing department may not languish for want thereof. To teach all who have property to pay their Tithing, to encourage donations to the Perpetual Emigrating Fund, and to instruct the Presidents of Conferences and Branches in all things that shall increase their usefulness, and enable them to build up the Church of Christ, in purity and in power.
Let no immoral precepts or practices be allowed in the churches of the Saints, but let those who will not walk worthy of their holy profession, after faithful admonition and dealing with, be severed from among the righteous that the Church of Christ may be pure and abound in the knowledge of God through the Gift of the Holy Spirit.
We pray that the Spirit and Power of God may rest mightily upon you that your heart and mind may be filled with the words of life, and the counsels of the Holy One be continually with you, that you may feed the sheep, nourish the lambs, and administer salvation to the people.
The Presidents and people of those Conferences are exhorted to receive you, administer of their substance and service to your comfort, and walk in your counsels, and in so doing the blessings of Almighty God shall rest upon their persons, and all that pertain to them through our Lord Jesus Christ.
S.W. Richards, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
in the British Isles.
Daniel Spencer, Counselor
Blessing Signed by Heber C. Kimball
Daniel Tyler wrote the following in reference to this blessing: “Received by mail in Geneva, Switzerland, November 8, 1854. I wrote this blessing under the most trying circumstances, being a stranger in a strange land, unacquainted with the manners and customs and even the language of the people. I was sorely grieved that I could not lift up my voice unto them; but I must wait until I could learn their language. For particulars, see my journal kept at the time. I sent this to my wife in Salt Lake City and asked her to take it to Brother Kimball and if he endorsed it as his own feelings, ask him to sign his name, which he did and wrote the top three lines on this page* and signed his initials with his own hand, as well as at the bottom on the other side. The bottom line on this side**, my wife wrote and returned the blessing to me at Geneva by mail. Daniel Tyler.
* “Daniel, those words are true and will come to pass, and more, because you will live for it. This brings the blessing to you. You have my kind wishes. Give my love to all. H.C.K.”
** “Father Pettigrew says this blessing is revelation. R.T.”
The Blessing
(Permission needed from Church Historical Dept. to publish it & above)
A blessing by President Heber C. Kimball upon the head of Daniel Tyler, born Sempronius, Cayuga County, N.Y.
Brother Daniel, in the name of Jesus Christ, I bless thee and I seal and confirm upon you all your former blessings and I say unto you, if you are true and faithful, not one jot or tittle shall fail. Your peace shall be as a river of pure water flowing from an eternal fountain. Your name shall be had in honorable remembrance to latest generation. Your posterity shall be as numerous as the sands of the sea and you shall reign over them throughout all eternities.
The way shall be opened before you to accomplish the mission which has been assigned you and you shall be greatly blessed therein in winning souls unto Christ. Your health shall return unto you and you shall run and not be weary and walk and not faint. And if you will be humble, the powers of heaven shall be at your command in every time of need to overthrow the works of the Devil and bring to naught the designs of wicked men. You shall have power to live until you are satisfied with life and shall yet, before you lay down your life, bless your children like Jacob of old and they shall rule over your father’s house in the Priesthood. You shall receive a fulness of all the blessings of the Holy Priesthood in the House of the Lord and a crown of eternal lives and exaltation in the Celestial Kingdom of our God. I seal these blessings upon you in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Heber C. Kimball.
These are Church History Notes regarding the European Missions.
Again, for details, see Daniel’s Missionary Journal.
“The Swiss German Mission, originally known as the Swiss and Italian Mission, was opened by Elder Lorenzo Snow and fellow laborers, in 1850. After him the following elders presided over the mission, the beginning of each term marking the end of the one preceding it. Thomas B. H. Stenhouse, from 1851. Daniel Tyler from October 1, 1854. John L. Smith, January, 1856....”
(Andrew Jensen, Encyclopedic History of the Church..., p 855)
At a special Priesthood Meeting held in Geneva Oct. 1, 1854, Daniel Tyler was sustained as successor to Pres. Thomas B.H. Stenhouse, honorably released. At that time there was a total membership in the mission of 292.
In May, 1855, the first number of “Der Darsteller,” a magazine, was published in the interest of the Church in the German language at Geneva, Switzerland, by Daniel Tyler; this periodical ceased to exist in 1860. It was a valuable asset to the missionaries while published. In September, 1855, Franklin D. Richards, president of the European Mission, visited many of the branches of the mission in company with John L. Smith, who was appointed to succeed Daniel Tyler as president of the mission. On Dec. 31, 1857, the Swiss and Italian Mission consisted of five conferences.....
About Karl G. Maeser from Orson F. Whitney, History of Utah, Vol 4, p.327.
Mr. Maeser’s first intimation of Mormonism was when, as a child, he saw in some paper a pictorial illustration of the early mobbings and drivings of the Latter-day Saints, probably in Missouri, with certain comments upon their faith and origin. The impression then made upon his mind remained, developing eventually into a spirit of inquiry regarding the history and doctrines of the peculiar people. In 1853 he obtained through a stranger in an indirect way the address of Elder John Van Cott, at Copenhagen, and through him the address of Elder Daniel Tyler, then presiding over the Swiss and Italian Mission. Elder Tyler sent Messrs. Maeser and Shoenfeld some religious pamphlets so poorly translated as to provoke at first their merriment, but as they read on they became interested and forgot the manner in the matter of the presentation. Subsequently he wrote to them, proposing to send a missionary to Dresden, and asking advice as to how one should introduce himself in that part, where there was no religious liberty. They replied that he might come as an instructor, and upon this hint, Elder Tyler wrote to President Franklin D. Richards at Liverpool, who sent Elder William Budge to introduce the Gospel in the Kingdom of Saxony.
Voluntarily resigning his position at Dresden -- for he knew the storm it would evoke when he became known as a “Mormon” -- Mr Maeser left his native land and went to London, whither Mr. Schoenfeld had preceded him. He labored there as a missionary, mainly among the German inhabitants of that great city, where he built up a branch of the Church. In 1857 he crossed the Atlantic, and having landed at Philadelphia, served there as a missionary under President Angus M. Cannon. During the panic of that year he trudged on foot to Richmond, Virginia, where he sought and found employment as a music teacher, and had among his pupils members of the family of ex-President John Tyler. Six months later he responded to a call to preside over the Philadelphia Conference, and remained there, holding that position until June, 1860, when he started for Utah, arriving in October at Salt Lake City..
Elder Budge narrated some of his experiences -- from Orson Whitney, History of Utah, Vol. 4, p. 150:
He labored in Switzerland and Italy, under the presidency of Daniel Tyler. He was sent to Dresden to teach Karl Maeser and family. After laboring for some time under adverse conditions -- his movements all the while watched narrowly by the police -- Elder Budge, in order to avoid bringing trouble upon himself and his friends, and agreeable to instructions from President Richards, left Dresden on the 18th of November, and arrived at Geneva, Switzerland, on the evening of the 20th. He found President Tyler sick. He had been released to return home and desired Elder Budge to remain with him until he was able to travel. He recovered slowly, so that it was not until the 27th that he left Geneva, arriving in London on the 30th of that month.
[Daniel’s successor, Elder John L. Smith later wrote that “I got a tolerably good understanding of the situation of the Saints for Elder Tyler spared no pains in making me acquainted with affairs.”
From account of an Elder Walker -- from Orson F. Whitney, History of Utah, Vol. 4, p.195.
Elder Walker...proceeded to Liverpool where he met in council with President Franklin D. Richards [and others], and after reporting his mission, discussed with the subject, “Wheelbarrow or Handcart Emigration.” Late in February he sailed from Liverpool on the ship “Caravan,” with a company of Saints presided over by Daniel Tyler, to whom he acted as first counselor; Edward Bunker and Leonard I. Smith being the other counselors.
The Caravan (from booklet, “Saints on the Seas.”) It is a sailing ship and there is a picture of it.
Ship: 1363 tons: 195' x 39' x 19'. Built 1855 by Willard Hall at Bath, Maine.
On February, 1856, under the command of Captain William A. Sands, the new square-rigger Caravan cleared the Liverpool harbor with 457 Saints aboard. Among the passengers were two Scandinavian families who had been detained by sickness from sailing on the ship John J. Boyd. One of the five wards on shipboard consisted of Welsh Saints in the charge of Elder John Butler. Presiding over the entire company were Elder Daniel Tyler, historian of the famous Mormon Battalion, and his counselors Elders Edward Bunker, Leonard I. Smith, and William Walker.
Storms and contrary winds delayed the vessel from getting under full sail until 18 February. However, the passage of about six weeks was described as “prosperous, though stormy at times.” One passenger died during the voyage, three babies were born, and one couple was married. On the latter occasion the American flag was unfurled and bells were rung among other festivities. Tragedy also marred the journey. During a storm a sailor slipped from the foreyard and was killed almost instantly. The ship arrived at New York on 27 March.
A fine product of Down East Shipwrights, the Caravan operated out of New York in the Dramatic Line.
Daniel’s Mission Report Written to President Richards prior to his boarding the “Caravan” for the voyage back to America. This was apparently in the possession of Daniel’s granddaughter, Emily Tyler Cramer in Ucon, Idaho
.
Worcester, Feb. 2, 1856
Dear Pres. Richards:
It is with pleasure that I present you with the following sketch of my labors in the Swiss and Italian Missions, which I trust will not be altogether uninteresting to the readers of your very valuable periodical -- the Star.
My appointment reached me on the 14th of July, 1854. I arrived at Geneva, Switzerland, on the 20th of August and entered upon my labors on the first of October. Previous to my arrival in Geneva I was totally ignorant of the languages, laws, manners and customs of the people. Elder Stenhouse, who I was called to succeed, remained with his family until the first of November. From him I learned some items which were of much service to me.
The work in the German Cantons of Switzerland seemed at that time to require more laborers which were accordingly sent. Elders William Budge and Samuel Francis arrived in Geneva in time to attend the General Council of the Swill-Italian Missions which was held 1st, 2nd, and 3rd October. Previous to the Council I visited the Saints in the Cantons of Vaud, Neufehatel, and Zurich. In the two former Cantons there were but few Saints. Those few, with one or two exceptions, were very poor; the wealthier portion having emigrated in the early part of the season.
In the Canton of Zurich I found Elder George Mayer and about one hundred Saints, the fruits of his labors. A general spirit of inquiry seemed to prevail. Baptisms were frequent among this people. I found that the spirit of emigration exceeded anything I ever had witnessed; some having found their way into the Church with no other view than to get to America. Of this class, however, there were not very many in the Church. Many of the peasantry, thinking that our only desire was to swell our numbers, came and offered themselves for baptism; stating that as they had no property to detain them, they could be ready to emigrate at a week’s or day’s notice. When they were told that they could not be received on such terms and that we wanted none except those who wished to serve God and build up his Kingdom and were willing to toil for its advancement, as well as their own, they went away sorrowful.
I was accompanied on my way to Zurich, as far as Neufchatel, by Elders T.S.H. Stenhouse and Charles R. Savage, those brethren being on their way to visit Elder Jacob F. Secrist, who was laboring in the Canton of Berne. After I had been in Zurich a few days, I received a letter from Elder Stenhouse giving an account of his journey and informing me that some parties in Lausanne had received letters from the Swiss Saints on the plains and that six or eight of their numbers had fallen victims to the cholera. The letter containing the news was published in a French journal. The substance of it was also published in the German papers.
The infancy of the work in the Cantons, the small degree of religious liberty, with a knowledge of the excitable disposition of the continental nations, will give you some idea of the sensation likely to follow such unpleasant news. Suffice it to say that the Elders found the excitement hard to brook and their personal safety depended upon the quietness of their movements. In fact, Elder Stenhouse’s friends advised him not to be seen in the streets of Lousanne -- the town where he once resided and did the most of his publishing in the French language.
Elders Stenhouse and Savage, having been seen with Elder Secrist, led to the belief that Brother Secrist was not the only ‘Mormon’ in the country. He was accordingly brought before the ecclesiastical court of the district to give an account of the doctrine he had taught, of the business of his visitors, and to answer the charges of holding unlawful meetings and teaching a strange doctrine. Elder Secrist defended the truth manfully, reasoning out of the Scriptures, so far as he was allowed to do so and bore a faithful testimony. His judges were not agreed, some being against him and some more favorably inclined, but a Protestant minister, being in the chair, and having, as he said, lost some of the best of his flock. He found Elder Secrist guilty of teaching a strange doctrine and told him he would be required to answer the charge before a higher court, the decision of which would be final.
A few days after this investigation, a Priest named Bravand was arrested through mistake for Elder Secrest. The error being discovered, Brother Bravand was liberated after one nights detention.
As the time of the General Council of the Missions was drawing nigh, Elder Secrist went to Geneva. After the Council he returned with the strong hope that he would be permitted to remain and instruct the Saints more fully in the principles of their most holy religion. He did remain unmolested for several weeks; but feeling that all was not right, he consulted a man of influence in the government and was advised to go before the principal police authority in the Canton, and in case of detention, to have his friends get up a petition for his release accompanied with a testimony that he was a good man, and had neither violated any low of the country, not taught anything contrary to the Scriptures. He did as advised, but instead of obtaining a hearing as he anticipated, the petition was unheeded; and after nine days imprisonment, (a portion of the time in a very filthy place) he was marched out of the Swiss Conference into France on foot, a portion of the way chained to a thief.
Elder Secrist, finding it impracticable to return and resume his labors, made his way to Liverpool, and finally emigrated to America enroute for the Valley, but was numbered with the faithful martyrs for Christ and the Gospel before he reached the bosom of the Church and his family, for whose sake he had so faithfully labored.
Permit me, in conclusion of this part of my narrative, to remark that Elder Secrist was ever faithful and obedient to counsel, and never made any important move without first consulting those who were placed over him in the Lord. So far as I know he died without enemy, except for the truth’s sake. I have been more lengthy on the case of Brother Secrist than any other topics because no account of his labors and imprisonment have hitherto been published. I should have said that Elder Secrist left a Branch of about 30 Saints, who deeply deplored his loss; some of them looking upon him as more than human -- an angel sent to reveal to them the only way of life.
Persecution continued, especially in the German Cantons, after Elder Secrist was banished. The next move was to dispose of Elders Mayer and Budge. As is usual in such cases, professed ministers of the Gospel were the first to excite the populace, by raising the cry of ‘false prophets,’ ‘imposters,’ and etc. As an account of the persecution and imprisonment of Elders Mayer, Budge and Savage will be found in Elder Budge’s account, already published, I will not trouble you with a repetition, only to remark that they all maintained their integrity to the last, not even omitting to preach to the spirits in prison when opportunity offered.
The foreign Elders having all left the Swiss Mission, except Elder John Chislett and myself, led many to believe that “Mormonism’ so called would soon die a natural death; but in this they were mistaken. No sooner had the foreign Elders departed than their mantle fell upon the native ones and they went forth preaching in every place where they could get a hearing; the Lord confirming and witnessing His approval of their labors with signs following. The Holy Ghost was mightily poured out upon the Elders, to their own astonishment, and it fell upon whole households, even before they were baptized. One of the Elders in giving an account of his labors and of how the Spirit fell upon him and a few families who had assembled to hear him, when speaking of the Gospel, said: “The Holy Ghost fell on us, even as on the day of Pentecost, and those who knew me from childhood were astonished at the knowledge which the Lord had given me.”
After this meeting some five or six were added to the Church by baptism. Several cases of healing occurred, both in and out of the Church. Of the latter, one was of a woman who had been confined for some years to her bed. So sudden was she healed that on the following day after Elder Hug administered to her, she walked four miles and a half to receive the ordinances of the Gospel.
As a natural consequence the native Elders and Saints, having shared int he blessings of their departed brethren, have had to share also in their sufferings, being called before magistrates, and having fines to pay for entertaining the servants of God. But in all these things they rejoiced, hoping to repay, through faithfulness to the end, to enjoy the society of those whom they so dearly loved. While upon this subject, I will observe that the authorities generally are more liberal in their feelings than many of the people whom they represent.
The foregoing applies to the German Cantons of Switzerland, except what is named as having occurred in the French Cantons. In the latter, although there has been much opposition and the Elders have had to flee from place to place to evade mobs, yet the authorities have never interfered further than to forbid them entering certain towns and threatening fines on those who entertained them. Elders Keaton and Savage left the mission because the position of the work would not justify a continuance of their faithful labors, and that they might be applied where they were more needed.
The last persecution of any magnitude that has come under my notice is that of Elder John Chislett, which took place in the Canton of Neufchetel, on the 18th of October last. He was ordered by a police officer to leave the village of Soals, which he had just entered. Brother Chislett obeyed the mandate and was pursued by a mob out of the place. He was knocked down several times, jumped upon, rolled in the mud, thrown into a ditch, dragged through a hedge and otherwise roughly handled. He lost his hat, umbrella, walking stick, and his clothing nearly ruined with rents and mud. In the midst of it he thought upon the persecution of Brother Joseph and it gave him strength and reconciled him to his fate. Elder Chislett being in a land of strangers, went before the chief of police in Neufchatel, who sympathized deeply with him in his unfortunate condition and directed him to the hospital for the night and proffered to investigate his case if he would present it in writing. Elder Chislett was very kindly treated by the Sisters of Charity who gave him a cap and loaned him a coat to wear to Geneva. Before leaving the hospital the next morning, Elder Chislett addressed a note of thanks to the authorities who had treated him so kindly, but chose to leave his persecutors in the hands of God.
You will perceive by the Statistical Report that but few have been baptized in the Italian Mission, but I am happy to inform you that recent news from Piedmont is more flattering. The emigration of the poor from that place has awakened a spirit of inquiry, and the Spirit of the Lord in moving upon the minds of the people in some places, and Elder Francis expressed himself as having strong hope of doing a good work the coming season.
I may also add that Switzerland and Italy are not alone in the search for truth, but others having read of the persecution of the Saints, have sent for the works of the Church that they might know from us what our sentiments and faith are; the result of which will appear in due time, no doubt to the glory of God.
The DARSTELLER, the first issue of which was on the 16th of last May served not only to strengthen and encourage the Saints, but was read with interest by many not in the Church. It served to disabuse the public mind. I had only to regret that it had not a more able person to conduct it; but feeble as our efforts were, the Lord sanctified them to the good of his cause, beyond what we had any natural reason to expect.
Elder John Chislett, who aided me in this, as well as in many other duties, will please accept my thanks, as also my successor, Elder John L. Smith, for his aid and kindness to me during my illness, and at other times after his arrival. I trust through the blessings of God that their work under his watch care will increase in interest to the glory of God and to his heart’s content.
Owing to my continued ill health, it was deemed essential that I should retire from my labors, which I did on the 27th of November last, being accompanied to London by Elder William Budge. I arrived in London on the 30th, since which time, by your kind permission, I have visited the Elders and Saints in several Conferences, all of whom have treated me with a kindness known only among Saints, for which they will please accept my warmest thanks.
In the foregoing I have necessarily omitted many things of interest, which will doubtless appear in due time.
In conclusion, please accept my warmest thanks and extend the same to brothers Spencer and Wheelock for the kind, wise, and fatherly counsel which all of you have extended to me in every time of need since I have been called to labor under your Presidency. May the choicest of heaven’s blessings ever abide with you is the constant prayer of your brother and fellow laborer in the Kingdom of God.
The foregoing is much more lengthy than I had anticipated. My apology must be in the varied circumstances connected with my labors.
With every kind love to yourself, brothers Spencer and Wheelock, and brethren in the office, to whom the Saints in the Swiss and Italian Missions constantly request to be remembered.
I remain yours faithfully,
Daniel Tyler
Daniel’s Blessing Prior to Taking Charge of
Shipload of Saints Going to America
A blessing upon the head of Daniel Tyler, given in the house of Franklin D. Richards on the 12th February, 1836, under the hands of Franklin D. Richards and William Walker, S.I. Smith and E. Martin, pronounced by F.D. Richards, setting him apart to take the charge of a ship load of Saints from Liverpool to New York.
“Our Father in Heaven, in the name of thy Son Jesus Christ, we lay our hands upon the head of our beloved Brother Daniel Tyler to bless him, and ask thee to cause that the Holy Spirit may be shed abroad in each of our hearts, that every feeling and influence that is not in strict accordance with the pure and peaceful influence of the Holy Spirit may be removed from us, and we pray that thou wouldst strengthen our faith in thee, and thy promises ... and especially we ask this blessing upon Brother Tyler that he may have power over every opposing and wicked ... and influence, and may thy [hole in the paper here] ... power be increased upon ... that he may bless thy people.
And have thou special care of this our Beloved Brother. O our Father, an account of the integrity of his heart and his faithfulness, in the Battalion and in every place where he has been called upon to take an active part in thy cause. And even on this mission, where his labors have been sincere and worn his body away and but for thy assistance and protection, must have been borne down and destroyed. And we ask that thou wouldst bless his labors in this, his mission, and may thousands of the honest yet be blessed and made to rejoice in the truth through his labors and the work he has accomplished in this mission.
And we say unto Brother Tyler that thou shalt be blessed, both in body and spirit and strengthened in your inward parts and throughout your system, and you shall be clothed upon with that strength, intelligence, and power which shall cause you to rejoice in the goodness of your Father in Heaven and in the society of your family and the faithful saints in Zion, more than you ever yet have done. Therefore, let your heart be comforted, and have faith in the Lord and seek diligently to retain the Holy Spirit and know the mind thereof that you may have power over every opposing spirit and be able to bless the Saints on this journey and build them up.
And the Brethren shall gather around you and you shall be strengthened and shall go home to Zion, and rejoice in the society of the righteous more than you have ever yet rejoiced on the earth. And you shall be blessed of the Brethren in Zion, even the First Presidency, and you shall be blessed by the Ministrations of the Angels and they shall go with you and be around about thee to protect thee from all harm. When thou seeest danger [hole in paper] ... the Saints, hasten thou by ... them and shield thou them from .... Stand thou between them and all ... and the Lord shall give you power to abort it in his name and by virtue of the Priesthood and of the holy anointing of the Brethren. Your counselors shall be blessed by you and me, and you shall have power and influence over the Captain and officers of the ship, and cause them to seek to bless you and those under your charge and shall cleave unto you because of your faith and goodness of heart to your charges.
And you shall be blessed more abundantly than you have ever yet been and the peace of the Lord shall be with you, and the angels shall be round about you and sustain you. Therefore, let your heart be comforted, for we seal these blessings upon you, together with all the blessings that have heretofore been sealed upon you, in the name of the Father and of the Spirit of the Holy Ghost. Amen.
An account from “Treasures of Pioneer History,
South Africa’s Contribution to Utah” page 249:
Feb. 6th. As there was a large company of Saints preparing to go on the ship Caravan, which was to sail on the 2th, it was thought best for the African Saints to sail on this ship, as they could get a cheaper passage. I notified the Saints to that effect. The ship is ready to sail with 750 souls on board. Daniel Tyler was appointed president and William Walker first counselor, Edward Bunker, second and Leonard I. Smith, third. Brother Tyler, being very poor in health, was unable to take an active part in the management. Having to superintend the issuing of rations and being attentive to the sick, they gave me the title of Dr. Walker, so the physician, employed by the government, had little to do. We had a good voyage and arrived in New York about the 24th of March. The company remained in Castle Garden four days. The company was divided up, some going to Pittsburgh, others remaining in New York. I had charge of the company through to Iowa City, via Buffalo and Chicago. The superintendent, Henry W. Weed, gave me a through and return pass, on account of the Mormon emigration. We arrived in Iowa City on the 5th of April, 1856. As we were too early for the plains, I assisted the brethren in renting houses and getting employment by giving recommends and finding places for those that wanted to work.
Daniel’s Account of the Sea Voyage
New York, April 3, 1856
Dear Pres. Taylor,
We take this opportunity to inform you that we arrived at this port on the 27th ult. after a voyage of 41 days in the “Caravan.” On arriving on board the vessel we proceeded immediately to organize the saints and place over them their respective officers. On February 15th, divided them into five sections or wards. With this arrangement all seemed satisfied and sustained the various appointments unanimously. We did not get under way until the night of the 18th, at which time we were towed out by the steamer “Constitution” and sailed along with a fair but rather cold wind for the first week. From this time until the first of March, the weather was variable, and on that day we encountered the most severe storm that we experienced during the voyage. While the storm was at its height, a sailor, David Kirby, fell head foremost from the foreyard, and expired almost instantly. Brother Thomas Bartlett had his uncle severely injured by a loose spar, and several others were slightly bruised but none seriously.
We have had three births, one male and two females, and one death, a daughter of Charles and Phoebe Gibson, aged 3 years. We have to record one marriage among the rest, Brother William Harrison and Sister Hannah Adams, from the London Conference, were united in the bonds of holy wedlock by Elder Daniel Tyler, on which occasion the American flag was unfurled to the breeze, bells rung, and all the jollification that could be experienced on shipboard in fair weather.
In relation to the provisions, they have been abundant, and of the best quality. President John Butler from Wales, was ordained an Elder to preside over the Welsh saints on board. I take pleasure in informing you that the speed of our vessel eclipsed that of many others that left Liverpool and adjacent ports about the same time. In this the good hand of our Father in Heaven is to be acknowledged as well as in the general good health and other blessings which have been bestowed upon us. The Saints, with very few exceptions, have been faithful in their duties and obedient to council and have proved by their works that they are worthy the name they profess.
With regard to the well ventilated and convenient ship, “Caravan,” we take great pleasure in recommending her as being well adapted for passengers, or freight. Her commander, Captain Sands, has acted like a gentleman and has given general satisfaction. He was always ready to hear, and grant any reasonable petition, and has manifested an interest int he welfare of the sick and infirm, often ministering to their necessities with delicacies from his own table -- deserving our gratitude, which he has.
We are also much indebted to Mr. Lindsay, who is a gentleman in every sense of the word for the disposition he has shown to befriend the saints during the voyage. With these few lines and prayers for your prosperity and success in the promulgation of truth, we remain your brethren in the bonds of the Covenant.
President, Daniel Tyler
Counselors, Edward Bunker, Leonard J. Smith, William Walker
Clerk, Jesse Tye
(Mormon April 5, 1856:3)
NOTES ON MARTIN HANDCART COMPANY,
Taken from a talk given by Vaughan J. Featherstone titled:
“Purity of Heart”
It left Iowa City on July 29th, 1856. During July and August they made fairly good distances each day. Fall came early though and the chill of winter brought frosty nights. The consequences of threatening storms, decreased rations, and insufficient clothing and bedding dampened their spirits.
They traveled on. The storms continued. The wind was shrill and blew about them furiously. The snow was several inches deep. The Willie Company (which left two weeks before the Martin Handcart Company) recorded that the snow was over a foot deep after the storm. Five people died. The Willie Company camped and waited for help to come.
Sister Jackson, in the Martin Company, recorded: “My sister became sick. So severe was her affliction that she became deranged in her mood, and for several days she ate hard, frozen snow.” I wonder if she may have considered this as the only way to have her rations given to others.
Sister Jackson also wrote: “A few days after the death of my husband, the male members of the company had become reduced in number by death and those who remained were so weak and emaciated by sickness that on reaching the camping place at night, there were not sufficient men with strength enough to raise the poles and pitch the tents. The result was that we camped out with nothing but the vault of Heaven for a roof and the stars for companions. The snow lay several inches deep upon the ground. The night was bitterly cold. I sat down on a rock with one child in my lap and one on each side of me. In that condition I remained until morning....”
“Deaths continued in the camp. Some died ... lying side by side with hands entwined. In other cases, they were found as if they had just offered a fervent prayer and their spirit had taken flight while in the act.... Some died sitting by the fire, some were singing hymns or eating crusts of bread....”
Sister Sirman, whose husband was near death and whose two sons were suffering with frozen feet, appealed to Captain Martin, “Do you think that the relief party will come soon with food, clothing, and shoes?”
The Captain’s answer was “I almost wish God would close my eyes to the enormity of the sickness, hunger and death among the Saints. Yes, Sister Sirman, I am confident as that I live that the President (Young) will and has dispatched relief wagons.”
Samuel and Margaret Pucell and their two daughters were in the Martin Handcart Company. Margaret became so ill she had to ride in the handcart part of the way. Her husband grew so weary and weakened from the lack of food that this additional burden caused him to slip and fall one day as he crossed a river. Having to travel in the cold, wintery weather with wet clothing, he too became ill and died from hunger and exposure. His wife died 5 days later, leaving 10 year old Ellen and 14 year old Maggie orphans.... Many died (135) and many others suffered from frozen limbs, among them the Pucell girls, both having badly frozen feet and legs....
President David O. McKay, at an annual Relief Society Conference in 1947, talked of the criticism given by a teacher, who commented that it was very unwise even to have permitted the Saints to cross the plains under such circumstances. President McKay said:
“Some sharp criticism of the Church and its leaders was being indulged in for permitting any company of converts to venture across the plains with no more supplies or protection than a handcart caravan afforded.
“An old man sat silent as long as he could stand it, then he arose and said things that no person who heard him will ever forget. His face was white with emotion, yet he spoke calmly, deliberately, but with great earnestness and sincerity.
“In substance the father said: ‘I ask you to stop this criticism. You are discussing a matter you know nothing about. Cold historic facts mean nothing here, for they give no proper interpretation of the questions involved. Mistake to send the handcart company out so late in the season? Yes. But I was in that company and my wife was in it and Sister Nellie Unthank, whom you have cited, was there too. We suffered beyond anything you can imagine and many died of exposure and starvation, but did you ever hear a survivor of that company utter a word of criticism? Not one of that company ever apostatized or left the Church, because everyone of us came through with the absolute knowledge that God lives, for we became acquainted with him in our extremities.
“I have pulled my handcart when I was so weak and weary from illness and lack of food that I could hardly put one foot ahead of the other. I have looked ahead and seen a patch of sand or a hill slope and I have said, ‘I can only go that far and then I must give up, for I cannot pull the load through it.” {And a wife with a baby in her arms by his side!} “I have gone on to that sand and when I reached it, the cart began pushing me. I have looked back many times to see who was pushing my cart, but my eyes saw no one. I knew then that the angels of God were there.
“Was I sorry that I chose to come by handcart? No. Neither then nor any minute of my life since. The price we paid to become acquainted with God was a privilege to pay, and I am thankful that I was privileged to come in the Martin Handcart Company.” (David O. McKay, “Pioneer Women,” Relief Society Magazine, Jan. 1948, p. 8)
Comprehensive History of Church Vol 4 : XCVIII : 84 : ‑
Comprehensive History of Church Vol 4 : XCVIII : 107 :
THE HANDCART COMPANIES OF 1856
"In regard to the foreign immigration another year," (1856), said the epistle, "let them pursue the northern route from Boston, New York, or Philadelphia, and land at Iowa City or the then terminus of the railroad; there let them be provided with handcarts on which to draw their provisions and clothing, then walk and draw them, thereby saving the immense expense every year for teams and outfit for crossing the plains.
"We are sanguine that such a train will out‑travel any ox train that can be started. They should have a few good cows to furnish milk, and a few beef cattle to drive and butcher as they may need. In this way the expense, risk, loss and perplexity of teams will be obviated, and the saints will more effectually escape the scenes of distress, anguish and death which have often laid so many of our brethren and sisters in the dust.
We propose sending men of faith and experience, with suitable instructions, to some proper outfitting point to carry into effect the above suggestions; let the saints, therefore, who intend to immigrate the ensuing year, understand that they are expected to walk and draw their luggage across the plains, and that they will be assisted by the fund in no other way."*4
The immigration that year was unusually large, amounting in all to 4,326 souls; of whom 2,012 were emigrated by the means provided by the Perpetual Emigration Fund Company.*5 The names of the eight ships and the number of saints going with each are recorded. The unusual number emigrated by the perpetual emigration fund, that is to say, means for their emigration was advanced by the company, represented an effort on the part of the church leaders in Utah to bring "to Zion" the worthy though poor saints who had long desired to gather to the body of the church, but had not been able to lay up sufficient means. "I will here repeat my wish and counsel to you," wrote President Young to Franklin D. Richards, president of the European Mission at the time, "that in your election of the saints who shall be aided by the fund, those who have proven themselves by long continuance in the church shall be helped first. whether they can raise any means of their own or not; let those be brought, so long as you can act within the means of the company, if they have not a sixpence in the world, but be wary of assisting any of those who come into the church now, during these troublous times for Britain, whose chief aim and intention may be to get to America."*6 This arrangement which was carried out would naturally and did bring into the emigration of that year many of the aged, the sickly, the feeble, and many with large families of children.
The route of the immigration in the main was via Boston to Iowa City, in the state of Iowa, that being the most westerly railway terminus at the time along the proposed line of travel. Here the handcart companies were fitted out for the journey across the plains. The first two companies led by Edmund Ellsworth and the second by Daniel D. McArthur left on the 9th and 11th of June respectively. These companies as reported on their arrival in Salt Lake City numbered‑‑Ellsworth's: souls, 266; handcarts, 52; McArthur's: souls, 220; handcarts, 44; eight teams were divided between these two companies.*7 A third and smaller company, chiefly composed of Welsh converts, under the leadership of Edward Bunker, left Iowa City on the 23rd of June.
The three companies made the journey to Salt Lake City without serious adventure, or loss, though of course their traveling was attended by the toil and fatigue incident to such a method of migration.
The first two companies entered Salt Lake valley together on the 26th of September.. When Governor Young learned of their arrival in the mountains east of Salt Lake City, he took a military escort attended by bands of music and met them at the foot of Little Mountain in Emigration canon and escorted them into the city, where they were cheered and made welcome by the populace that turned out en masse to receive them. They encamped on Pioneer Square, but in a few days had found homes among their kindred and friends in the community. Bunker's company arrived six days later, 2nd of October, also without serious adventure or loss. They had traveled with Captain John Banks' wagon company of immigrating saints.
Commenting on the successful journey of 1,300 miles made by the two first companies, the Deseret News said: "This journey has been performed with less than the average amount of mortality attending ox trains; and all, though somewhat fatigued, stepped out with alacrity to the last, and appeared buoyant and cheerful. They had often traveled 25 and 30 miles in a day, and would have come through in a much shorter time, had they not been obliged to wait upon the slow motion of the oxen attached to the few wagons containing the tents and groceries." Time and distance considered, they had not averaged more than eleven miles a day.
If the curtain could be rung down upon this handcart emigration incident of the year 1856, with the arrival of these three companies in Salt Lake valley, and their dispersion among the people, that method of traveling over the plains might pass without very serious objections, beyond a protest against the hardship of excessive toil involved in it. The successful accomplishment of the journey by these companies demonstrated that such a method of migration was possible rather than feasible. And what remains to be set down involves the whole adventure in a tragedy, making one of the saddest pages in Latter‑day Saint history.
THE WILLIE COMPANY THROUGH IOWA
There were two other handcart companies fitted out at Iowa City in that fateful year of 1856, led respectively by James G. Willie and Edward .Martin, and numbering in all above nine hundred souls.*8 Their respective journeys are here but rapidly sketched.
The emigrants who made up Willie's company arrived at Iowa City on the 26th of June, and here met their first disappointment the tents and handcarts, the one to afford them shelter, the other the means of conveying their food and bedding on the journey across the plains, were not, as yet, provided; and in waiting for the manufacture of these necessary things the company was detained until the 15th of July. The journey through Iowa to "Old Winter Quarters," by this time known under the name of Florence, Nebraska, was accomplished in twenty‑six days, since they arrived at Florence on the 11th of August and remained there until the 16th. The chief hardship of this stage of the journey was the midsummer heat, the dust; and when heavy rains converted this to mud, the heavy roads. The part of Iowa through which their route passed was then fairly well settled, and from the people of that state they received varied treatment. Sometimes they were met with good‑natured badinage, at other times with threats of personal violence. At one point they were overtaken by a sheriff's posse with a search warrant issued by a justice of the peace, authorizing the posse to search to the very bottom of the few wagons for young women, alleged to be tied down in them with ropes.*9 Of course the search revealed no such conditions as were alleged. At Des Moines an act of kindness varied the treatment. A Mr. Charles Good presented Captain Willie with "fifteen pairs of children's boots." There were some few desertions from the company in this first stage of the journey, eight in all‑‑who were persuaded to the step by inducements held out by the people of Iowa‑‑"for the leeks and onions"‑‑is Captain Willie's manner of phrasing it.*10
WILLIE'S COMPANY AT FLORENCE‑‑
SHALL THE JOURNEY BE CONTINUED
At Florence the question of continuing the journey through to Utah, or going into winter quarters on the Elkhorn, at Wood river, or some other eligible location in Nebraska, was debated; but it was finally determined to continue the journey, the majority of the leaders in charge, among whom were George D. Grant, Win. H. Kimball, advance agents of the emigration that season, and Elders Willie captain of the company of handcart emigrants‑‑Atwood, Savage, Woodward, and John Van Cott, all favored it, except Savage, and the views of the majority of these leaders were accepted by vote at a mass meeting of the emigrants, anxious to get to Zion, ignorant of the difficulties and dangers to be encountered, and willing to trust the judgment of these leaders.*11
Levi Savage was returning from a more than two years mission in Siam and Ceylon, where he had most earnestly sought under trying circumstances to present the message of the New Dispensation. His action in the above named discussion deserves special mention. To the overzeal, not to say fanaticism, of his brethren, Elder Savage opposed common sense, and his knowledge of the country, both of which persuaded him that a mixed company of aged people, women, and little children, even though it had some strong men in it, could not cross the mountains so late in the season without much suffering, sickness, and death. He advised going into winter quarters; but when overruled, according to Chislett's Narrative, he said: "What I have said I know to be true; but seeing you are to go forward, I will go with you; will help you, all I can; will work with you, will rest with you, will suffer with you, and if necessary, will die with you. May God in mercy bless and preserve us." He lived up to his promise "no man," says the narrative, "worked harder than he to alleviate the suffering which he had foreseen, when he had to endure it." But it had been represented to these saints in the handcart companies, and, indeed, to all the saints in Europe, that a special providence would attend this method of migration, and hence they would be apt to discredit any warning that might be given concerning dangers that might overwhelm them. "Know ye not," wrote Elder John Jacques, assistant editor of the Millennial Star‑‑"Know ye not that it is the holy ordinance of the Lord revealed through his prophet, Brigham Young, for the redemption of the humble, faithful poor, and that it will be blessed and sanctified of him to the salvation of thousands who are not too proud to be saved in his appointed way, while many who will despise that way will be left to perish in Babylon. The Lord has promised through his servant Brigham Young that the handcart companies shall be blessed with health and strength, and be met part way with teams and provisions from the valley.*12 And I am not afraid to prophesy, that those who go by the handcarts, and continue faithful and obedient, will be blessed more than they have ever dreamed of."*13 Religious enthusiasts imbued with these ideas of blessing and favor, would, of course, vote to continue the journey "to Zion."
WESTWARD HO! INCIDENTS BY THE WAY
The Willie company left Florence on the 19th of August, and began the journey across the plains in earnest. The Cheyenne Indians were bad that season, and the emigrants heard of occasional attacks upon emigrant team‑trains, among them of the attack upon Almon W. Babbitt's train, and later of the killing of Mr. Babbitt himself. From the Omaha Indians the handcart company received some kindness, and were able to buy some buffalo meat of them. By the 5th of September the company had made 265 miles west of Florence, but at this point they had the misfortune to lose thirty head of cattle, which they spent two days in searching for, but they were not found; and the journey was resumed with their few teams very much weakened. On the 12th of September they were overtaken by a company of returning missionaries in three carriages and some wagons. The company included Elder F. D. Richards, ]Daniel Spencer, and C. H. Wheelock, late presidency of the European Mission.
On the 17th of September, while yet on the Platte they had their first frost, "a very severe one." On the 30th they arrived at Fort Laramie‑‑still five hundred miles from Salt Lake City.
On the 1st of October the journey was resumed. Occasionally they met eastward bound parties, among these were Parley P. Pratt and a company of missionaries, bound for the eastern states. That was to be this eminent apostle's last mission, since he fell a victim to assassination in Arkansas about seven months later.
ON RATIONS
At the very start the handcart company had been put upon rations, one pound of flour per day per man, a little less for women, and still less, of course, for children was allowed; and these scant rations from time to time had to be reduced until they were barely sufficient for subsistence, The last reduction left them at 10 ½ oz. for men; 9 oz. for women; 6 oz. for children, and 3 oz. for infants.*14
On the Sweetwater river they encountered extremely cold weather and severe snow storms; but while disheartened by this circumstance they were cheered by the coming to them of two messengers from the west, driving a light wagon, and bringing the news that a supply train was on its way to meet them, and they could expect to meet it in a day or two: and then the young men drove on to take the same cheering word to Martin's company, and to the wagon trains still further eastward.*15
THE FIERCE STORMS OF THE SWEETWATER‑‑DEATHS
After the departure of these welcome messengers, however, the snow storms, accompanied by fierce winds, were renewed, until from sheer exhaustion the company sought such shelter in hollows and willow thickets as could be found and awaited the coming of the relief trains. Dysentery broke out in the camp, aggravated by eating the fresh meat that was obtained from killing a few of the broken down oxen. Deaths had been frequent the past few days from exhaustion and cold. Fifteen died in one of the terrible days immediately preceding the encampment above referred to, which was made at Willow Creek on the Sweetwater, and many were frost‑bitten. The storm that was proving so fatal to the handcart company had also overtaken the relief train, and hindered its progress. Not knowing the absolute destitution of the emigrants, and that they were perishing only a few miles distant,. the relief train had gone into encampment, awaiting the arrival of the handcart company or the passing of the storm. Meantime Captain Willie with a single companion, started westward in search of the relief train. He found it; whereupon all possible haste was made to reach the sufferers. It was the evening of the third day after his departure that Captain Willie returned at the head of fourteen well loaded wagons. Their arrival came none too soon, if the camp was to be saved from utter destruction: for the ravages of hunger, dysentery, and exhaustion were threatening the extinction of the helpless emigrants.
CHISLETT'S PICTURE OF REJOICING RELIEF
Chislett's account of the meeting of the handcart company and the relief train deserves perpetuation:
"On the evening of the third day after Captain Willie's departure, just as the sun was sinking beautifully behind the distant hills, on an eminence, immediately west of our camp, several covered wagons, each drawn by four horses, were seen coming towards us. The news ran through the camp like wildfire, and all who were able to leave their beds turned out en masse to see them. A few minutes brought them sufficiently near to reveal our faithful captain slightly in advance of the train. Shouts of joy rent the air; strong men wept until tears ran freely down their furrowed and sunburnt cheeks, and little children partook of the joy which some of them hardly understood, and fairly danced around with gladness. Restraint was set aside in the general rejoicing, and as the brethren entered our camp the sisters fell upon them and deluged them with kisses. The brethren were so overcome that they could not for some time utter a word, but in choking silence repressed all demonstration of those emotions that evidently mastered them. Soon, however, feeling was somewhat abated, and such a shaking of hands, such words of welcome, and such invocation of God's blessing have seldom been witnessed! * * * Among the brethren who came to our succor were Elders W. H. Kimball and Geo. D. Grant. They had remained but a few days in the valley before starting back to meet us. May God ever bless them for their generous, unselfish kindness, and their manly fortitude! They felt that they had, in a great measure, contributed to our sad position but how nobly, how faithfully, how bravely they worked to bring us safely to the valley‑‑to the Zion of our hopes !"
Mr. Chislett had left the church when he wrote that passage!
Eight of the relief wagons passed on to the camps still further eastward, and six remained with Captain Willie's company.
Fortunately, after reaching the South Pass, and descending into the Green river valley, the weather moderated, more supply wagons were met, some passing on to take the needed relief to the companies still in the rear, and others turning back with Willie's company to give such increased aid and comfort as was still required; and so abundant was the help in the last stages of the journey that most of the toil‑exhausted, hunger‑weakened emigrants could be taken into the wagons.
This company arrived in Salt Lake City on the 9th of November, and soon received every evidence that they had come among warm‑hearted friends. "On our arrival," says Willie's Narrative, "the bishops of the different wards took every person who was not provided with a home to comfortable quarters. Some had their hands and feet badly frozen but everything which could be done to alleviate their suffering was done, and no want was left unadministered to. Hundreds of the citizens flocked around the wagons on our way through the city, cordially welcoming their brethren and sisters to their mountain home. * * * The total number of deaths in this party from Liverpool, was seventy‑seven, * * * we had also three births and three marriages on the trip."*16 Nearly all the deaths in the camp occurred after leaving Fort Laramie.
JOURNEY AND SUFFERING OF
EDWARD MARTIN'S HANDCART COMPANY
Edward Martin's handcart company, known as the fifth of the handcart companies, and the last of this fateful year, duplicated the experiences of Willie's company, but was attended with even more disastrous results since it was a larger company, and had a larger proportion of women and children and of the aged and feeble, and also had a later start and was detained longer by the mountain storms.
The emigrants that made up Martin's company and the two independent wagon companies of that season, under John A. Hunt and Benjamin Hodgetts, respectively, arrived at Iowa City in the early part of July, but were detained‑waiting for their tents and handcarts to be made‑‑until nearly the last of the month. One of the chief contributing causes to the handcart disaster was the frailness of these carts, and the unfitness of the material put into them. They were hurriedly made of unseasoned timber, and so much was sacrificed to lightness that the necessary strength and durability was impossible. The result was that in Martin's company, as also in the companies that preceded it, the breaking down of handcarts which began a few days after the start was made‑‑and the necessary halting to repair them contributed much to the delay of the journey.
FAULTY STRUCTURE OF THE HANDCARTS
Both Chislett's and Jacques' account agree in this. John Jacques, author of the great Latter‑day Saint hymn, "O, Say What is Truth," was a member of Martin's company, and wrote a series of letters to the Salt .Lake Herald in 1878 and 1879, describing somewhat in detail the events of the journey. The letters are seven in number, beginning in the Sunday impression of December the 1st, 1878, and appearing in each Sunday impression until Jan. 19, 1879. Elder ,Jacques had been a very earnest advocate of this handcart method of traveling over the plains, and had sharply reproved some who doubted the feasibility of the plan.*17 "Many of the carts had wooden axles and leather boxes,"' he writes in his description of them. "Some of the axles broke in a few days, and mechanics were busy in camp at night repairing the accidents of the day." Chislett's account of the carts is that they had to be made at Iowa City while the emigrants were waiting for them. "They were made in a hurry, some of them of very insufficiently seasoned timber, and strength was sacrificed to weight, until the production was a fragile structure, with nothing to recommend it but lightness. They were generally made of two parallel hickory or oak sticks, about five feet long, and two by one and a half inches thick. These were connected by one crosspiece at one end to serve as a handle, and three or four similar pieces nearly a foot apart, commencing at the other end, to serve as the bed of the cart, under the center of which was fastened a wooden axletree, without iron skeins." The wheels were devoid of iron, except that in some of them there was a very light iron tire. The whole weight of a cart was about sixty pounds.
It doubtless will aid in appreciation of the difficulties and even the dangers of the handcart expedition westward if the matter of roughness of mountain roads and altitudes be considered. These are "To give a better idea of the journey, I may say discussed by ,Jacques as follows: the nature of the latter one‑half that the altitude of Salt Lake is about 4,200; * * * and that of Fort Laramie 100 feet lower. It may also be recollected that the whole of the winter part of this journey was performed at a much greater altitude, beginning at about 5,000 feet at North Platte camp, where the relief express found the company [i.e. Martin's], and never sinking so low again until in Emigration canon near this (Salt Lake) city; but rising at Devil's Gate it was 6,000 feet; near the three crossings of Sweetwater to 7,000 feet; by the South Pass a little higher. From Green river to Bridget about 6,700 feet; on Bear river to about 6,800 feet; in Echo canon, about 6,000; on the Big Mountain, about 7,245, with different ridges and summits which were passed over varying from over 7,000 to nearly 8,000 feet."*18
The start from Iowa City did not begin until the 28th of July. At first there were two companies organized; one under Martin, the other under the leadership of Jesse Haven, returning missionary elder from South Africa. The two companies numbered nearly six hundred souls. The arrangement to travel in two companies continued until the companies arrived at Florence, Nebraska, which was on the 22nd of August. Here, as in the case of Willie's company,... which was but four days departed‑‑the question of venturing upon the journey so late in the season was debated. "Unfortunately," remarks Jacques, "It was determined to finish the journey the same season."
AT FLORENCE‑‑ADJUSTMENTS
Matters were somewhat readjusted at Florence. The two companies were united into one; Edward Martin was continued as captain assisted by Daniel Tyler. Both of them had made the journey with the Mormon Battalion from the Missouri river to the Pacific coast; both of them at first corporals, and afterwards as 2nd and 3rd sergeants, respectively, in Company "C."*19
The start was made from Florence on the 25th of gust. It was the 8th of October when they reached Fort Laramie. Here they remained one day and some were able to exchange and sell watches and other personal effects they could spare for food which they were allowed to purchase from the military stores, at reasonable prices.*20 Soon after leaving Laramie, however, it was found necessary to reduce the daily ration. "The pound of flour was reduced to three‑fourths of a pound, then to half, and subsequently yet lower. On the 19th at Red Buttes they met the first severe snowstorm, accompanied by a piercing north wind; that day they had forded the Platte. Two days before, in order to lighten the loads on the carts they had sacrificed much bedding, the need of which they now sorely felt.
On the 28th Joseph A. Young and two companions, with the news of coming supply trains, met them, an event which brought forth "the cheers and tears and smiles and laughter of the emigrants." Two days later they met the promised supplies on the Sweetwater near Devil's Gate. This assured relief, but much of suffering had yet to be endured. From a foot to a foot and a half of snow was on the ground and the cold was intense. The question was discussed as to whether the company should go into such winter quarters as could be provided or push on to Salt Lake. The latter course was determined upon. The freight that could not be taken along was left at this point with three men from the valley, and seventeen from among the emigrants to guard it. Only a small allowance of food could be left them, and because of this the men suffered terribly, and nearly perished of hunger by the time spring opened and relief arrived from Salt Lake valley.
Shortly after leaving Devil's Gate enough wagons were met to carry most of the baggage of Martin's company and some of the people, but the crossing and recrossing of the Sweetwater was a trying ordeal. There were so many who were helpless, or nearly so, that it was difficult to decide who should be taken into the wagons and who should be compelled to walk. "There was considerable crying of men and children," remarks Elder Jacques, "and perhaps of a few of the men, whom the wagons could not accommodate with a ride." "One of the relief party remarked," continues our authority, "that in all the mobbings and drivings of the 'Mormons' he had seen nothing like it." C.H. Wheelock (who, it will be remembered, was one of. the presidency of the British Mission when this enterprise was undertaken, and who was now returned with the relief party to assist these emigrants, also one of the last who was with the Prophet Joseph at Carthage Prison) could scarcely refrain from shedding tears, and he declared that he would willingly give his own life if that would save the lives of the emigrants.
EPHRAIM K. HANKS‑‑HERO
The men with one group of relief wagons, not yet met by the emigrants, concluded from their long delay in appearing that the rear companies of the emigration had perished in the snow, and were for turning back to Salt Lake;*21 but Ephraim K. Hanks, commonly known as "Eph Hanks," who was connected with the mail carrying service, was determined to ascertain the fate of the emigrants, and accordingly mounted one team horse, and leading another, rode on alone. He met the emigrants while yet on the Sweetwater. He had killed a buffalo two of them, in fact‑‑and cutting the meat into strips, packed it on the horse he was leading; and this with other buffalo he had killed after joining the company, materially added to the meat supply.*22
By the time South Pass was reached enough relief teams had arrived to allow of some passing on to help the wagon trains still further back, and at the same time admit of all the emigrants riding in the wagons. The journey now was more rapid. By the 21st of November Green river was reached. On the 28th the company camped on the Weber. Meantime other parties had been at work keeping the road open over the mountain passes east of Salt Lake City. By this time the relief wagons numbered one hundred and four, and the emigrants were welcomed by throngs of people into Salt Lake City, where they arrived on Sunday, the 30th of November.*23
Every relief that shelter, and food, and clothing, and kindness, and devoted attention could bring to these belated emigrants was accorded them. The usual Sunday morning services were in progress at the "Old Tabernacle" when President Young learned of the approach of Martin's company to the city. In dismissing the congregation that the people might meet the emigrants and care for them, he said:
"When those persons arrive I do not want to see them put into houses by themselves. I want to have them distributed in this city among the families that have good, comfortable houses; and I wish the sisters now before me, and all who know how and can, to nurse and wait upon the newcomers, and prudently administer medicine and food to them. * * * The afternoon meeting will be omitted, for I wish the sisters to go home and prepare to give those who have just arrived a mouthful of something to eat, and to wash them, and nurse them up. * * * Prayer is good, but when (as on this occasion) baked potatoes, and pudding, and milk are needed, prayer will not supply their place. Give every duty its proper time and place. * * * I want you to understand that I desire this people to nurse them up; we want you to receive them as your own children, and to have the same feelings for them. * * * Now that the most of them are here, we will continue our labors of love until they are able to take care of themselves, and we will receive the blessing. You need not be distrustful about that, for the Lord will bless this people."
It was in this spirit that the emigrants were received and waited upon by the people, President Young and his family doing their full share. During his remarks above referred to President Young had said:
"I have sent word to Bishop Hunter that I will take in all that others will not take. * * * I am willing to take my proportion."*24
The exact number of those who perished in this company is not of record in our official annals; and it is difficult to fix upon any approximate number with certainty. Joseph A. Young coming in from the farthermost companies reported at a meeting in Salt Lake City, on Sunday, the 16th of November, that on meeting Martin's company at Red Buttes on the Platte, 56 deaths were reported up to that time;*25 that, however, was on the 28th of October, and there was yet before the company more than a month of exposure, and toil, and suffering, in the midst of fierce mountain storms. Chislett declares of this company that of the six hundred at starting they "lost over one‑fourth of their number by death." "The storm which overtook us while making the sixteen mile drive on the Sweetwater," he writes, "reached them at North Platte. There they settled down to await help or die, being unable to go any farther. Their camp ground became a veritable graveyard before they left." One‑fourth of 600, would be 150. Jacques says that exaggerated ideas have been entertained with reference to the number of deaths. His own estimate is that about one in six of the "entire number that left Liverpool in the ship Horizon" died. As that number is listed at 856, Jacques' estimate of those who perished would be 142, or about the same as given by Chislett. Jacques also says that others "who claim to know" put the number of deaths in Martin's company "at about 100; or about one‑eighth of the entire number that left Liverpool in the ship Horizon."*26 All things considered the estimate of Chislett and Jacques,‑‑putting their estimate at 145‑is perhaps not far from the facts. And these added to Willie's seventy‑seven deaths, brings the total of deaths to 222. The number who were frost‑bitten was also large, and some were crippled for life.*27
The wagon companies were also helped in the last stages of the journey. The people el: Fort Supply, near Bridget, led by Isaac Bullock, as well as relief teams sent from Salt Lake City rendering them valuable assistance by providing them with fresh teams and supplies of food. All belated emigrants were reported as safely arrived in Salt Lake valley shortly after the middle of December.
The one redeeming feature of this unfortunate incident in Latter‑day Saint history was the heroic efforts of the people in Salt Lake valley to save these unfortunate companies of emigrants. Especially is this true of the people in Salt Lake City and county; of Davis county; and latterly of Tooele county. These, because of their accessibility, bore chiefly the burden of the relief work; and there are men whose names deserve a permanent place in history for the activity and heroism then displayed in seeking to save from misery and death large numbers of their fellow men. Among these are‑
Joseph A. Young,
Wm. H. Kimball,
George D. Grant,
Cyrus H. Wheelock,
Ephraim K. Hanks,
Stephen Taylor,
Able Garr,
Daniel W. Jones,
Thomas Alexander,
Ben Hampton,
Robert T. Burton,
Charles Decker,
G. G. Webb,
Hosea Stout,
James Ferguson,
Isaac Bullock,
Joseph Simmons
Others were, of course, equally worthy to be remembered; their risks and services were equally as great as these whose names are here set down'; but it happens with nearly all expeditions and enterprises of men that the few only can be specifically remembered in the annals of events. It is reserved to the "Lamb's Book of Life" to perfectly record the names of all who render service to humanity, and these, here unnamed, rank and file of the relief parties, who in that trying and adventurous enterprise of rescuing the storm bound and starving handcart companies of 1856, can be confident of being registered, and on the page with their names, these words will be written:
"Come ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungered, and ye gave me meat; I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink; I was a stranger, and ye took me in; naked, and ye clothed me; I was sick and ye visited me. * * * Verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these, my brethren, ye have done it unto me."*28
Of this service, remembrance of which I would perpetuate, President Young said:
"This is what I can say truly, with the rest of your counselors and directors, that no man or woman, that we have any knowledge of in the church. has refused to do as requested with regard to this immigration; they have run by day and night. Our messengers have been traveling from here to the Platte, and back and forth between Bridger, Green river, and the Sweetwater; and scores of men have been riding by day and night, without having enjoyed an undisturbed night's rest, during the last two months, only occasionally snatching a little when sitting by. the camp fire. They have been riding by day and night, hurrying to and fro and laboring with their might, and have not refused to do what we have required of them. This is to their praise. Works have been most noble when they were needed. We put works to our faith, and in this case we realize that our faith alone would have been perfectly dead and useless; would have been of no avail, in saving our brethren that were in the snow; but by putting works with faith we have been already blessed in rescuing many, and bringing them to where we can now do them more good."*29
Nor is this appreciation to be confined to those who braved the storms to carry the relief to the place where it was needed; but it is to be extended also to those who supplied the teams and the food, who by prudent counsels and prompt action conceived the relief plans and prepared the outfits for starting, and who by the consecration and sacrifice of their means made possible the rescue of their brethren from what would otherwise have been inevitable and miserable destruction.
Of course, among the foremost of these were Brigham Young and others of the general authorities of the church then in Utah. O. F. Whitney in his History of Utah writes:
"Many besides those who went to the rescue of these companies would gladly have gone had it been their privilege. None were more anxious in this respect, for none felt more keenly for the sufferings of the unfortunate emigrants, than President Franklin D. Richards, under whose administration in the British Isles the handcart project had been inaugurated. He had arrived home only three days before the relief parties set out. He desired to accompany them and made all preparations to that end, but was called to assist President Jedediah M. Grant and other elders who were just then arduously engaged in carrying on what is known in 'Mormon' history as 'The Reformation.' Had it not been for this, Apostle Richards would have returned to meet the handcarts, and it is not saying too much, to those who know the man and his great sorrow at the disaster which befell his brethren and sisters on the plains, that could his own life have averted the terrible calamity which overtook them, it would willingly have been given."*30
Near the close of his circumstantial account of the suffering endured by Martin's handcart company, John Jacques very briefly and temperately discusses the question of "blame" for the disasters that overtook it; and the matter is put so fairly that I quote it here at length: "The question may be asked, whom do I blame for the misadventure herein related. I blame nobody. I am not anxious to blame anybody. I am not writing for the purpose of blaming anybody, but to fill up a blank page of history with matters of much interest. I may say that notwithstanding the serious misfortune of this company, I have no doubt but that those who had to do with the management meant well and tried to do the best they could under the circumstances."*31
THE MISSIONARY EAST‑BOUND
HANDCART COMPANY
Doubtless to show the saints in Europe that the brethren in Utah did not shrink from the toilsome method of travel that had been suggested to them, a company of missionary elders numbering 74 men, with 25 handcarts, left Salt Lake City on the 23rd of April, 1857, for the Missouri frontiers, en route for various parts of Europe and the states to preach the gospel.
Following is the description of the departure of this handcart company of missionaries from temple square, published at the time:
"All things being ready, at a quarter before 10 a. m., the company started off in regular order, with as much apparent cheerfulness and unconcern as though they were going to return in the evening, whereas many of them will be gone for years, and all will probably have to pass through trials. and endure hardships, of which the pulling of their carts across the plains will be among the least.
The company consisted of 74 men, with some twenty‑five handcarts, and was made up of individuals of nearly every imaginable occupation and pursuit of life: farmers, mechanics, tradesmen, merchants, and clerks‑‑some Americans, some English, Scotch, Irish, Welsh, Danes, Swedes, Norwegians, Germans, and of other nations, were to be seen in the company, which made it an unusually interesting sight. To see such a variety of men, some of them young, some in the prime, and some past the meridian of life, leave their vocations at a moment's notice, and go forth in that way to proclaim the gospel of salvation to the nations that have long been wandering in the darkness, bespeaks a devotion to the principles of eternal truth not often seen."*32
Instead of increasing in difficulties of road and dangers of approaching winter, however, as in the case of the west‑bound handcart companies, it grew daily easier, and less dangerous as they approached the Missouri river. The company was made up moreover by men alone, and the presence of aged people and children did not enter into their problems; and their journey was down hill from the base of the Rocky Mountains to the Missouri river, and attended by a constantly expanding summer, instead of threatening and actual fierce storms of winter. It was, however, the best expression, perhaps, that could be given that the elders who went among the people to preach the gospel were willing to endure the same toilsome method of travel as had been suggested to the saints in Europe, and such an expression, on the part of those who gave it, was worthy of all acceptation and praise.
Two small companies of handcart emigrants crossed the plains in 1857, led respectively by Israel Evans and Christian Christiansen. They arrived in Salt Lake City on the 12th and 13th of September. In 1858, Latter‑day Saint emigration both from Europe and the states was nearly suspended, and there were no handcart companies that year. In 1859 there was one company, led by George Rowley, numbering 235 souls, with 60 handcarts, and six wagons. In 1860 there were two handcart companies. The first was led by Daniel Robinson, numbering 233 souls; 43 handcarts; 6 wagons. This company arrived in Salt Lake City on the 27th of August, and President Young took the precaution to send out teams to meet it with 2,500 lbs. of flour and 500 lbs. of bacon. The second company of handcart emigrants that year was led by Oscar O. Stoddard, and numbered 126 souls, 22 handcarts.
This was the last company to come by that method of travel.
Handcarts
From book “Mormon Emigration 1840-1869: page 263
“This season’s operations have demonstrated that the Saints being filled with faith and the Holy Ghost, can walk across the plains, drawing their provisions and clothing in handcarts. The experiences of this season will, of course, help us improve in future operations; but the plan has been tested and proved entirely successful. The entire trip from Iowa City, a distance of over 1,300 ;miles to this city, has been accomplished in less traveling days than it has ever been by ox train or wagons and with far greater ease to the travelers. These companies, with the exception of the last two which started too late in the season, have made the trip from the Missouri River in a little over two months [1856]. The accounts of this year’s operations not yet being completed, we are at present unable to state the precise amount of expenditure incurred per passenger; but we know that it must be far less than heretofore, and may still be lessened in the future. In the first place our emigrants must start earlier in the season and the necessary arrangements must be completed by the time they arrive at the western frontier and no company must be permitted to leave the Missouri River later than the first day of July.* They must be provided with stronger handcarts and endeavor to arrange things so as to have the burden upon each cart vary as little as possible during the journey. All emigrants should supply themselves with an extra supply of good shoes. The very aged and infirm should be brought in wagons in a separate train. By observing these suggestions it is believed that, with one four or six mule team to each two hundred persons, the emigration will be much facilitated at a still lessened expense.”
*[The Edward Martin Handcart Company left Iowa City, Iowa on August 25th, with 575 people. This was the first year, but looking ahead to the last year in 1863, we still see handcart companies leaving as late as August 14th. Never, apparently, with as disastrous results.]
This account by Elder William Woodward gives very interesting details about the handcart companies in 1856. It was written by Elder William Woodward to President Kimball on June 11, 1856 at Iowa City, Iowa.
June 11, 1856
Dear President H. C. Kimball,
Dear Brother, thinking you would like to hear of the emigration of the European Saints and the progress of the “Handcart” companies, I have concluded to write to you from this point, and tell what little I can about the emigration of the “Mormons” on their way to Great Salt Lake Country. In the first place, our campground is about two miles west of Iowa City, on a rising point of land. It is a good location and was selected by Brother D. Spencer.
This place was selected din the early part of May and several of the Saints came here. James Ferguson’s company came on the ground on the 14th of May, numbering about 530 souls. In company with James Ferguson were Edmund Ellsworth, S.W. Crandell, W.B. Hodgetts, John A. Hunt, J.D.T. McAllister and D.D. McArthur. Since that time this place has been an important place for business, such as making handcarts, ox-yokes, ox-bows, etc.
Dan Jones’ company came into camp June 2nd numbering about 500 souls, mostly from Wales. Health of this company tolerably good. Up to this time 16 infants of Brother Jones’ company have died since they left Liverpool, and one adult. Total died in Captain Jones’ Company, 17 souls. I came in this company. Riding in the cars was very trying to the infants. Up night and day, after crossing the sea is very trying to weak persons.
Brother Spencer is president of the emigration to Deseret from Europe and is constantly on hand attending to his business. James Ferguson assists him. J.D.T. McAllister is commissary of the Perpetual Emigration Fund Store, which is at this place.
Daniel Tyler is Bishop of the camp, Daniel Spencer and James Ferguson his counselors. C.G. Webb superintends the making of handcarts, E. Bunker the making of ox-yokes, ox-bows, and the hauling of timber from the woods some six miles distant from camp. William Walker is going to haul luggage from this place to the Valley at $12.50 per hundred lbs. if 2/3ds of the cash is paid down. If it is paid in Utah when things arrive there, it is to be $15.00 per hundred pounds.
The best of feelings exist in camp. The handcarts are thought considerable of by all of us, and the bad feeling, if such a thing you can call it is, we wanted to go by the first companies -- that is, the boys that are left.
The first Handcart Company rolled from this place on the 9th of June, in fine spirits. This company has a band with it, and is led by Captain Edmund Ellsworth. He is assisted by John Oakley and William Butler. This company was greatly cheered by all present as it was leaving the ground. It numbered 278 souls; they had with the 6 yoke of cattle, 3 mules and 1 horse, and 3 wagons and 56 handcarts, five persons to each cart. The second handcart company left this point today about 11 a.m., led by Captain D.D. McArthur, assisted by S.W. Crandell and T. Lenord. They left in fine spirits. They are generally hardy Scotch and fine travelers. The third company is now fitting up. They are “Cambrian Americans.” We call everybody here “Americans!”
J. Van Cott, W.H. Kimball and G. D. Grant are purchasing cattle for the company. I guess they are in Missouri.
A Dependent Company of ox teams will start when they get their cattle. The wagons that are here and those that are gone by the two cart companies, came in from Chicago and cost from $75.00 to $110.00. Flour at this point is worth about $3.50 per hundred pounds, bacon about $9.00 per hundred.
We have heard that another shop load of emigrants have arrived at New York by the ship “Thornton,” numbering when they left Liverpool, 764 souls. James g. Willie, Millen Atwood, and Moses Clough preside over the Thornton Company. We expect them at this point by the 16th or 17th of June.
We have meetings twice on Sundays and occasionally through the week. Many strangers attend our meetings on the Sabbath and listen attentively to what is said. We have many “handcart” sermons preached, and a “handcart” song sung, the chorus of which is the following:
“For some must push and some must pull
As we go marching up the hill,
Then merrily on the way we’ll go,
Until we reach the Valley.”
Seventeen pounds of luggage is what is allowed to each person with the handcart companies. Much luggage will have to come by William Walker’s freight train.
I have but little to say about the difficulties in Kansas or the nominations for president. Buchanan, late ambassador to Great Britain, and Beckenridge of Kentucky have been nominated by the Democrats of Iowa City, the former for president of the U.S., the latter for vice-president.
The best of feelings exist amongst us that are left on the campground. We are only waiting for the word “Up and go to the Valley.” I am clerk to the camp and postmaster; that is, bring and take letters to and from the post office. Our camp is now rather quiet since the two first companies have left us. Occasionally a gentile or two visit us, inquiring about our strange religion and the reasons we are moving westward.
I have heard through Brother Tyler that times are rather hard in the Valley. Brother Tyler has received a letter from his wife bearing date March 28, 1856. When difficulties commence with the Saints, what must they be when they reach the gentiles?
Give my kind love to Brothers Brigham and Jedediah and Sister Kimball and all of the family. Tell Lucy that her Brother Loren from Nauvoo is in camp and is going to the Valley this season. Remember me to the young folks and all inquiring friends. I enjoy tolerable good health and I am in good spirits.
Yours truly, in the Everlasting Covenant,
William Woodward
I have sent a letter to Laura M.H. by the mail that I send this one.
June 16th. Our camp is busy turning out handcarts. Yesterday we had good meetings. The Spirit of the Lord was with us and we felt well. Brother Spencer is gone to St. Louis on business. Mames Firguson has gone out to see how the handcart companies are getting along. Peace prevails here.
W. Woodward
(Received July 30, 1856, Eastern Mail)
From “Our Pioneer Heritage, Vol. 13, p. 361.”
At last the two wheeled carts were ready, and we were assigned one. It was afternoon when we started. Some grumbled at such a late start, but Captain Henry Martin explained that it was wise to just go a short way at first to get the people used to such mode of traveling. Later they could see the wisdom. And so we traveled across the Iowa plains, crossing rivers, and small streams until we reached the Missouri River at a place they called Council Bluffs. Went on to Florence where a ferry boat took us across the river where we waited several days for the Daniel Tyler Company. It was such a large company that we had to travel slowly across the Nebraska plains. We children and the old folks would start early so we wouldn’t get too far behind at night. A great many handcarts broke down, oxen strayed away, which made traveling rather slow. Quite an undertaking to get nearly a thousand persons who had never had any camping experience to travel and eat, and cook over a campfire. It took much patience from the captains to get them used to settling down at night to get started din the morning.
“Our Pioneer Heritage, Vol. 14, p. 262"
On the 23rd of September, Father walked 17 miles but did not get any wood. He laid down a quilt while we prepared something to eat, which was flour gruel. Next morning, the Captain wanted to put father on the wagon where the tents and other luggage was hauled, but we said, “No, he is dying and we will have him on the cart.” At 1 p.m. we reached the top of Sandy Bluff. The Elders administered to him and dedicated him to the Lord and father said, “Amen.” We remained here until evening , then stated down Ash Hollow, where we arrived at 11 p.m. We pitched our tents over the cart and at 11:15 father passed away, September 24, 1856. His last words were, “Mother, you know how I love my children.” Next morning Samuel and Albert Jones dug a six-foot grave and laid Father away. A little later they dug another grave and buried Brother Jones beside Father, then we moved on.
Brother Tyler tried to comfort us. He said Father would wear a martyr’s crown, as he was worthy of one.
“Our Pioneer Heritage, Vol. 3, p. 92"
Upon arriving in America with other Latter-day Saint converts, Christina started for Iowa, and on July 15, 1856, left for Florence, Nebraska, a distance of 577 miles, in two companies composed of 556 persons, 145 handcarts, 7 wagons, 6 mules and horses and 50 cows and beef animals. To each company was assigned two wagons hauled by oxen in which to carry provisions and tents.
The companies were consolidated at Florence, Nebraska with Edward Martin as captain and Daniel Tyler as assistant. On August 25th they broke camp and started their tedious 1,000 miles across the plains to Utah. They toiled on day after day, pulling or pushing their handcarts loaded with personal belongings and little children unable to walk through the deep sands, over rocky roads and the fording of streams. Each evening they would reach another camp, prepare the scanty meal, and retire for the night only to pursue their monotonous journey when daylight came. On November 30th the long journey was over and they entered the site of their new home.
From the account of Elizabeth Horrocks Jackson Kingsford [she sailed on the ship “Horizon” which left Liverpool three months later than the “Caravan” on which Daniel Tyler sailed.]
...We landed at Boston, Mass., June 30th, in good health. After a short stay in Boston, we proceeded to Iowa City, which place we reached on July 8th. At this place we commenced to make preparations for our terrible overland journey across the vast plains to Utah. The mechanics were very busy manufacturing handcarts on which to haul our provisions, small children, etc. The handcarts or many of them, were built on wooden axles instead of iron, and with leather boxes. We expected to find these vehicles already at hand on our arrival at Iowa City. Thus work consumed between two and three weeks of time, in which we should have been wending our way to Salt Lake City.
Their were two companies which contained about 556 persons. There were 146 handcarts, seven wagons and six mules and horses, 50 milk cows and beef animals. There was one wagon loaded with goods for the Church. To each of these two companies were apportioned a mule team, and two wagons hauled by oxen. These were to carry the commissary stores, tents, etc.
On July 15th, the company left Iowa City under the captaincy of Elder James G. Willie, for Florence, a distance of 277 miles. At Florence the two handcart companies were consolidated. Edward Martin was appointed Captain and Daniel Tyler was his assistant. On August 25th, the camp broke, traveled about two miles and then camped. On the 27th of August we made a final start from Cutler’s Fork, on our long tedious journey across the vast plains....
After toilsome and fatiguing travel, we reached Laramie on the 8th day of October. Here we rested for a short time. Our provisions by this time had become very scant, and many of the company went to the Fort and sold their watches and other articles of jewelry. With the proceeds they purchased corn meal, flour, beans, bacon etc., with which to replenish their stores of food which had become very scant. Hitherto, although a ration of a pound of flour had been served out daily to each person, it was found insufficient to satisfy the cravings of hunger; but the weary pilgrims were then about to experience more deprivations in this direction.
We rested a couple of days and then resumed our toilsome march. Shortly after leaving Fort Laramie it became necessary to shorten our rations that they might hold out, and that the company be not reduced to starvation. The reduction was repeated several times. First, the pound of flour was reduced to 2/4 of a pound, then to half a pound, and afterward to still less per day. However, we pushed ahead. The trip was full of adventures, hair breadth escapes, exposure to attacks from Indians, wolves and other wild bests.
When we reached the Black Hills, we had a rough experience. The roads were rocky, broken and difficult to travel. Frequently carts were broken down and much delay was caused by the needed repairs. [She continues, telling many more terrible trials of the journey, including the death of her husband.]
The teams had become so weak that the luggage was reduced to 10 pounds per head for adults, and 5 pounds for children under 8 years. And although the weather was severe, a great deal of bedding and clothing had to be destroyed -- burned -- as it could not be carried along. This occurrence very much increased the suffering of the company, men, women and children alike.
On the 20th of October, we traveled, or almost wallowed for about 10 miles through the snow. At night, weary and worn out, we camped near the Platte River, where we soon left if for the Sweetwater. We were visited with 3 days more of snow. The animals and immigrants were almost completely exhausted....
A few days after the death of my husband, the male members of the company had become so reduced in number by death and those who remained were so weak and emaciated by sickness, that on reaching the camping place at night, there were not sufficient men with strength enough to raise the poles and pitch the tents. The result was that we camped out with nothing but the vault of Heaven for a roof, and the stars for companions. The snow lay several inches deep upon the ground. The night was bitterly cold....
[Finally, on October 31st, help from the Valley arrived. The remainder of the journey was difficult, to say the least, but they had the provisions they needed and were able to complete the journey.]
From Orson F. Whitney, History of Utah, Vol. 1, p. 560.
The last handcart company arrived at Florence, on the west bank of the Missouri, on the 22nd of August, 1856. This was the site of “Winter Quarters,” of the great Mormon camp from Nauvoo, in the winter of 1846. There, owing to the lateness of the season, the important question was debated, whether the emigrants should winter in that vicinity or continue the long and wearisome journey to Salt Lake. Unfortunately, it was determined to finish the journey the same season. At Florence the two handcart companies were consolidated in one and put in charge of Edward Martin, assisted by Daniel Tyler (both Mormon Battalion men). August 25th the company moved from Florence to Cutler’s Park, two and a half miles, and caped, stayed there the next day and night, and left the next morning....
From Orson F. Whitney, History of Utah, Vol. 4, p. 297.
...The company of Saints with which he was connected was in charge of Elders Edward Martin and Daniel Tyler, and with him were his mother, his brother, his affianced wife and a lady friend.... They were 8 weeks upon the sea and did not start across the plains until early in September. They were in the ill fated handcart companies, whose pitiful and tragic tale has been told in a previous volume. Mr. Jones and his party were in Captain Martin’s company, which, caught in the early snows and wintry winds, lost over a fourth of their number by death. Of the experience of himself and fellow immigrants, Mr. Jones says sententiously, “After we left Laramie, it was one long funeral march until we arrived in Salt Lake City; and we never would have got there had not President Young exerted himself in sending out teams to our aid.”
From Comprehensive History of the Church vol. 4 pages 95-98
Many of the carts had wooden axles and leather boxes. They were made in a hurry, some of them of very insufficiently seasoned timber, and strength was sacrificed to weight, until the production had nothing to recommend it but lightness. They had to be made at Iowa City while the emigrants were waiting for them. They were generally made of two parallel hickory or oak sticks, about 5 feet long , and two by one and a half inches thick. These were connected by one crosspiece at one end to serve as a handle, and three or four similar pieces nearly a foot apart, commencing at the other end, to serve as the bed of the cart, under the center of which was fastened a wooden axletree, without iron skeins. The wheels were devoid of iron, except that in some of them there was a very light iron tire. The whole weight of the cart was about 60 pounds.
Florence Adjustments:
Matters were somewhat readjusted at Florence. The two companies were unite into one. Edward Martin was continued as Captain, assisted by Daniel Tyler. Both of them had made the journey with the Mormon Battalion from the Missouri River to the Pacific Coast; both of them at first corporals, and afterwards as 2nd and 3rd sergeants, respectively, in Company “C.”
This is from a few pages that look to be from Daniel’s Journal and seem to be referring to Saints who had so recently arrived in the Martin Handcart Company and who still were in need of assistance.
Nov. The 13th, 1856
E. Pulsipher and R. Galispe was talking together about the situation of the people on the plains. Robert said to me he should of thought that the Drapersville Branch might of rendered them some assistance. I said to Robert, let us go and see the Bishop. Accordingly we went to Brother Steward. Brother Galispe made our business known. He said he thought we ought to do something for them, but to the small ... being in our midst, he had not said anything about it. We concluded we would raise two four-horse teams with 20 bushels of grain each. Brother Steward was a plowing. He left his work and started for the west part of the settlement to see what the brethren was willing to do. Robert and myself started for the south part. We went to William R. Terry first and he said he would give one bushel of oats and one of corn. [A number of other contributions are then listed.]
Daniel Tyler seems to have written little about the ordeal of the handcart journey across the plains. However, he wrote the following in an issue of the Juvenile Instructor:
I was captain of a shipload of about 400 Saints crossing the Atlantic Ocean, and counselor to Captain Edward Martin of the latest company of handcarts in 1856. By his request I saw all out of camp in the morning and in camp at night, besides being Chaplain of the company, and having to oversee the burying of the dead, besides other arduous duties under perhaps the most trying circumstances of any company that ever traveled among the Saints in this Dispensation.
Our company from Iowa City to Winter Quarters numbered over 300 souls. From that point, Elder Jesse Haven, having charge of a company between 3 and 400 was called to other duties, and this company was added, making hard upon 700. Thus was fulfilled the last item of, to me then, marvelous predictions [made by a sister in about 1852 that he would be healed, preach the gospel in 4 languages and do a great work and return bringing many sheaves].
Also, in his short autobiography, Daniel wrote these poignant lines about his experience with the Handcart Company:
...Then I went to Iowa City, Iowa Territory, and joined the Camp of Saints who were preparing to cross the plains to Utah with handcarts. I was called and set apart as Bishop of the Camp, where I remained until the last company started.
Elder Edward Martin was appointed Captain and I his counselor and Chaplain. My health was poor but when I saw the suffering of my brethren and sisters in consequence of the cold storms and scarcity of provisions, I plead mightily with the Lord and I was healed and became healthier than I had been for several years.
Elder Martin requested me to see everyone out of camp in the morning and in camp at night, which I did, he going ahead and looking out camping places etc. I also had to see to burying the dead, which in our company amounted to something over 90 during our over three months travel, out of over 600 souls. The heavy snows set in at the upper crossing of the Platte about the first of October and continued during the rest of the journey, at intervals, the rest of the way.
Many was the night, after camping in scattered condition, as we sometimes must, that I have taken small children in my arms from the wagons and hunted their mothers who had pulled the cart, for over an hour before finding her campfire, where she would be cooking her scanty allowance of food. So stupefied that she was oblivious to everything else, even the tender child of two or three.
BUT THESE SCENES ARE TOO PAINFUL. A DETAILED ACCOUNT WOULD MELT A HEART OF STONE. WE DID OUR BEST, AND MANY TODAY CONGRATULATE US ON SAVING THEIR LIVES. WHILE OTHERS, WHOM BY UTMOST EXERTION WE SUCCEEDED IN SAVING, CAN SCARCELY THINK OF ANYTHING TOO WICKED AND FALSE TO SAY ABOUT US.”
Letter from His Brother, Ira
Richfield, Ill, Oct. 4th, 1857
Dear Brother and Sister,
I improve this opportunity to write you a few lines, though with a heavy heart. I am under the painful necessity of informing you of the death of my oldest daughter, Elizabeth Ann. She was taken sick on the 13th of August and died the 22nd day of the same month at 6 o’clock ... after an illness of nine days. Her disease was the malignant sore throat. Her throat swelled so that she could not swallow medicine or anything else for five days before her death. She retained her speech and senses until the last breath. She suffered immensely but she suffered patiently. Sometimes she would say “Oh Ma, I am so sick.” She anticipated a better world. She said before she died: “Ma, I have said my little prayer every day since I have been sick:
Now I lay me down to sleep,
I pray the Lord my soul to keep.
If I should die before I wake,
I pray the Lord my soul to take.
And this I ask for Jesus sake.
She suffered patiently and when her mother would weep over her she would look up and say, “Don’t cry, Ma.” And nearly her last breath she looked and said “Don’t cry, Ma.” And then expired. She said we would meet in heaven. We feel her loss but she has gone never more to return to us. We must go to her.
The rest of us are well as common. I suppose from your letter that Urial did not write the particulars of Nathaniel’s death. Adelade and Nathaniel and Washington died in less than three weeks with the lung fever. Adelade was taken sick and lived 5 days. Nathaniel was taken sick the same day she died and lived nine days. Washington was taken sick three or four days after Nathaniel was taken sick and lived 11 days and died. They all left evidence of a prospect of future happiness. Adelade spoke of the prospect and said she had said her prayer every day since she had been sick. Nathaniel had a good deal to say about his future state and all the time seemed clear on the subject. The day before he died he sent for a Methodist preacher and was sprinkled and joined the church. He said, “Ira, I am going to die. I want you to see to my papers and books are correct. I have always dealt honest to a quarter of a cent. The night that he died, he called me to his bed and bid me farewell. He said,Ira, all is well, I am going right to heaven. I want you to come and go with me. He thought from the time he had taken sick that he should never get well. He bid his family and friends all farewell, that was able to go to his bed, and told them he wanted them to meet him in heaven. He suffered a great deal until just before he died, but died easy. Washington often talked of his future prospects. He said, All is well. I am going right to heaven. He suffered a great deal but their sufferings we trust are over. The family was all very sick. Clarrisa had been sick for about...[remainder of this letter is missing].
This concludes everything I have for the decade of the 1850s