Records in possession of Tim Farr
Pioneers and Prominent Men of Utah, p.1232
WATKINS, JOSEPH HYRUM (son of Edward John Watkins and Elizabeth Lawrence).
Born Aug. 13, 1851, Street, Somersetshire, Eng.
Married Mary Ann Doxey April 30, 1879, Salt Lake City (daughter of Thomas Doxey and Ann Elizabeth Hunt, pioneers Oct. 9, 1853, Appleton Harmon company). She was born Aug. 28, 1856, Ogden, Utah. Their children: Lilly May b. Feb. 17, 1880, died same day; Hyrum Lawrence b. Feb. 13, 1881, m. Mary Elizabeth Clark DeLouche June 2, 1902; Mary Elizabeth b. June 11, 1883, m. Marcus B. Farr April 17, 1913; Thomas Doxey b. Oct. 26, 1884, m. Mildred May Carter June 14, 1911; Ruby May b. Nov. 9 1886, m. Arthur Middleton Dec. 18, 1909; John Franklin b. Nov. 6, 1888; Joseph Hyrum b. Sept. 17, 1890; Mabel Rozelta b. Sept. 6, 1892; David Hunt b. Nov. 5, 1894, d. Dec. 9, 1894; Ellis Doxey b. Jan. 18, 1896, d. Oct. 13, 1908; Pearl Viola b. Dec. 5, 1897; Eva b. Jan. 25, 1900, d. same day; Jane b. Feb. 17, 1901, d. same day; Rollo Edward b. March 28, 1903. Family home Ogden,
High priest; teacher; superintendent Sunday school; ward teacher; ward clerk; missionary to Arizona November, 1879, to June, 1882. Assistant foreman and foreman of the fire department of Ogden; was honored by appointment as chief Feb. 21, 1879, but did not accept. Justice of peace, first precinct; city sanitary inspector.
LIFE OF JOSEPH HYRUM WATKINS SR.
by Mary Elizabeth Watkins Farr, 1923-4.
Joseph Hyrum Watkins, son of Edward John Watkins and Elizabeth Lawrence, was born at Street, Somersetshire, England, near Glastonburg, on the 13th of August, 1851, at one o'clock in the day.
His father was a boot and shoemaker and later moved to Bristol, where he had a good business.
Joseph Hyrum started his schooling at four years of age, going to school until he was between 11 and 12 years of age, attending an exclusive school for boys. He taught part of the last year helping to pay his tuition.
No very important events transpired up to this time, except an occasional visit to his grandparents, and in 1862, he went from Bristol to London in company with his aunt, both to visit the International Exhibition and Snydnam to visit the Crystal Palace being away a week altogether.
He left England for Utah June 4th, 1863, on board the "Amazon," a sailing vessel which had on board 1005 persons including captain and crew. He was seven weeks and three days from the time they left London until their arrival in New York Harbor. There was a riot in New York City at the time, so they were not able to land for three days. In the company on board the sailing vessel, there were 895 Latter Day Saints. William Bramall was set apart by Pres. George Q. Cannon as President of the company of saints. Thomas Crane of St. George--Lamp Guard--George W. Larkin of Ogden, Utah--Guard main deck. For two weeks the sea was very calm, then was experienced one of the worst storms that had ever visited the Atlantic Ocean. The Captain ordered all off deck and below. Before the rigging or sails could be lowered, the storm ripped the sails, and the main mast broke, causing the ship to tip within an inch of the sea line. Captain Holly told Pres. Bramall he had heard of the faith of the Mormons, and if there was anything in their religion, he solicited their aid. Pres. Bramall, E. S. Stone, and Thomas Palmer went and prayed to the Lord for protection, and the storm calmed. Next morning was sighted one ship with every mast gone and all aboard dead. Another one was so badly damaged the people were signaling for help, which they gave, it being the code of the sea, share and share alike. Before a landing place was reached, it deprived them of water, etc., and they were fearful of disaster from other sources. After seven weeks and three days on the water, they landed at Castle Gardens, New York. Being the time of the Civil War, the company was held three days, and every man had to swear allegiance to the United States Flag. From there they went to Buffalo.
After leaving Buffalo, some ruffian set fire to the railroad baggage, two cars being consumed, some losing nearly all of their belongings. Through part of the State of New York, the company was taken in cattle cars. Then they went up the Missouri River landing at Winter Quarters, now known as Florence. A company had been waiting to receive the saints for weeks, and after three or four days of fitting out, they started across the plains. The Saints at Winter Quarters were divided into five caravans. Joseph Hyrum, with his father and mother, was placed in the Daniel McArthur Company. There was a train of seventy wagons, each wagon containing the belongings of two or three families. This company was given the name of "Hell Roarin' Dixie Train." Upon arrival near the Platte River, the Indians would come to trade with the immigrants. On one occasion, what was meant to be a joke all but ended seriously for the company. A young man pointed to a maiden and the Indian Chief said, "Swap girl," and when the young man nodded yes, he raised his fingers 1-2-3-4-5, meaning horses for the trade. The young man said, "Yes," and the young Chief rode away, and so on returned with 5 horses. Upon being refused the trade, he angrily rode away. The company began to make quick preparations to depart, and the young girl was kept in hiding, and for three or four nights the Indians rode upon them in an angry mood. So what seemed a joke may have turned out serious for all concerned.
Many hardships were endured on the trail. Edward John Watkins, his father, was not well, and Joseph Hyrum walked most of the way, and at times his feet were so sore the blood would come through his shoes. He got an occasional ride driving the commissary wagon when the young man driving desired to walk or accompany the girls in their journey.
Every night the company would form a circle with the wagons, and the horses and cattle were placed in the circle. A fire was built in the center of the circle. After supper, they would sing songs, dance, and then pray together before retiring. They travelled every day except Sundays, when they rested and held services.
Joseph Hyrum spent his 12th birthday August 13th, 1863, on the plains, partaking of all the hardships of the trail. They arrived in Utah October 3, 1863, camping that night on the square in Salt Lake City where the City and County Building now stands.
Moving to Ogden, Utah, his father entered the boot and shoe business on 25th street.
The first year Joseph Hyrum herded sheep west of Ogden for the McFarlands. At the age of 14, he went as apprentice to Samuel Tucker as cabinet maker, and at the end of four years completed the trade.
A brother and two sisters were born after coming to Utah:
Alice Alexia Watkins -- born September 19, 1865
Franklin Richard Watkins -- born March 18, 1868
Bessie Ada Watkins -- born September 12, 1871
All through the hardships of early pioneer life, his mother derived much joy and comfort from his aid and companionship, having always been the most dutiful of sons.
May 24, 1868, he was ordained an Elder by Joseph Fielding Smith, Sr.. His mother was very desirous of doing work for her dead, and at this time Joseph Hyrum assisted her.
Joseph Hyrum assisted his father in building the first brick building on 25th and Kiesal Streets in the year 1872, which was used for years as the government post office.
At the organization of the first volunteer fire department of Ogden City in 1873, he was elected Assistant Foreman acting in that position and as Foreman until February 21, 1879, when the City Council appointed high Chief, but he did not accept. At this time, he also played a cornet in the Ogden Band.
He was elected Justice of the Peace of the 1st Precinct November 20, 1902.
He was married to Mary Ann Doxey and Mary Ann Ellis at the Endowment House, Salt Lake City, April 30, 1879.
On October 8, 1879, he was called on a colonizing mission to Arizona. Selling all his property for a team, wagon, and outfit, and in company with his first wife, he left Ogden the 4th of November 1879, arriving in St. Johns, Arizona December 23, 1879, after a hard and wearisome journey. They were accompanied by William James, his wife and two children, all being the first Mormon people to make their homes in St. Johns, Arizona. Here he worked the next summer on the Latter Day Saints experimental farm (Indian Farm Land). The land was purchased by the L.D.S. Church for Indian missionaries to prove the land's worth. After working all summer, the labor brought each man 60 lbs of wheat. The Mexicans had raised beans for the government, and they were condemned. They sold a ton to the Mormon Colony at three cents a lb. This was the means of their sustenance through the following winter and truly showed the hand of the Lord.
Lilly May, the first white child born in St. Johns, Arizona, was born to Joseph Hyrum and Mary Ann Doxey Watkins Feb. 17, 1380, dying the same day. On Feb. 13, 1881, a son, Hyrum Lawrence, was born. In April, 1881, they were joined by Mary Ann Ellis Watkins, his second wife, and her cousin T. Samuel Browning. Death came again to them as Mary Ann Ellis Watkins died in childbirth, her baby boy also dying the same day, Jan. 16, 1882. This was a very sad occasion under the circumstances.
While in St. Johns, Joseph Hyrum was appointed Clerk of the St.Johns Ward. He was Supt. of Sunday Schools; Kept books for the Tithing Office; and was bookkeeper for the Z.C.M.I. store. He also learned the Spanish language and was an interpreter for the Mexicans, they being very troublesome at this time.
At the first celebration of the Fourth of July held in St. Johns, he was Marshall of the day, his two wives making the first American flag ever raised in St. Johns, which measured 13 feet long.
He returned from his mission June 11, 1882, released on account of ill health.
June 24, 1877, he was appointed Secretary of the First Quorum of Elders, and resigned Oct. 13, 1879. He was appointed Secretary again April 9, 1887.
September 30, 1887, he was appointed temporary Counselor; and on June 1, 1888, he was set apart as President of the First Quorum of Elders by Charles F. Middleton, faithfully performing that duty for eighteen years until July 2, 1906.
He was appointed Clerk for the Second Ward December 18, 1884, serving for twenty-five years or until 1909. Historian Jensen complimented him saying, that there was no better kept records in the Church.
He served as ward teacher and also as presiding ward teacher.
On the 28th of July, 1906, he was ordained a High Priest by Joseph Parry.
As a record for his faithful services in the work of the Lord, he was given, in company with his wife Mary Ann Doxey, their second endowments.
Working at his trade of cabinet maker, he worked mostly at the Ellis Planing Mill.
He served for four years as Ogden City Sanitary Inspector during the scourge of small pox.
For 21 years, he worked with his brother-in-law John G. Ellis in his electric planing mill.
He was the father of 15 children, ten grown to womanhood and manhood.
He was especially interested in home building, spiritually as well as temporally.
He was most accurate in all his dealings, was always planning that his family might have a comfortable home with all the latest conveniences, and was a pillar of strength in Zion, worthy of emulation.
He died of Lympo-Sarcoma (Cancer) September 4, 1921, after a sickness of eight months. Surviving him was his wife, Mary Ann Doxey Watkins, nine children and thirteen grandchildren.
His life in Utah was spent always in the Second Ward, Weber Stake of Zion.
He was loved and mourned by all who knew him as a faithful Latter-Day-Saint and an exemplary citizen.
Edited by Sherrie Markman, May 1998.
PATRIARCHAL BLESSING OF JOSEPH HYRUM WATKINS
Ogden City, May 4, 1874
A blessing given by John Smith, Patriarch, upon the head of Joseph Hyrum Watkins, son of Edward John and Elizabeth Watkins. Born in Street, Somersetshire, England, August 13, 1851.
Brother Joseph, in the name of Jesus of Nazareth, I place my hands upon thy head to bless thee and I say unto thee, be firm in time, integrity, walk in obedience to the laws of God and study the laws of nature for it is thy privilege to live to a good old age and become a mighty man in Israel. Seek to know the will of the Lord and thy mind shall expand, thy faith shall increase, and wisdom shall be given thee above many of thy brethren. Thou shalt council wisely and exhort the saints to faithfully it is also thy privilege and duty to travel much for the gospel sake and a fist in gathering scattered Israel. Honor the priesthood and thou shalt be strengthened in body and mind. Thou shalt be prospered in thy journeyings at home and abroad. Shall find friends among strangers. Many shall seek thee for counsel and wonder at thy wisdom. The spirit of the Lord shall rest upon thee in mighty power while laboring in the ministry and no harm shall stay thy progress, not withstanding the wicked shall point the finger of scorn at thee and ______ to take thy life not a hair of thy head shall fall by the hands of the enemy and the ungodly shall tremble at the sound of thy voice. And thou shall become a saviour among thy kindred throughout of the blood of Joseph through the loins of Ephraim entitled to the blessings of Abraham, Isaac and Joseph. With the gifts of the priesthood, in due season, thou shalt have a companion to _____ thy ____ thy posterity shall be numerous and bear thy name in honorable remembrance from generation to generation. Thou shalt gather of other _____ goods around thee all which shall be necessary thou shalt feed many in time of scarcity and comfort the hearts of the widow and fatherless. This blessing I seal upon thy head and I seal thee up unto eternal life to come forth in the morning of the first resurrection, even so Amen.
Transcribed by Tim M Farr
CONFIRMATION: by John Chappel
by Joseph Shay
Records in possesion of Tim Farr
Pioneers and Prominent Men of Utah, p.1232
Life of Mary Ann Doxey Watkins:
In Derby, England, on March 27, 1829, a son was born to Thomas Doxey and Susanna Brearley. This son was named Thomas. While he was still a young man under 20 years of age, he joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Out of a large family, he and his sister Mary were the only ones to join the Church.
He first attended an L.D.S. Meeting as a member of a mob which intended to break up the meeting. While sitting in the audience waiting, he gained a desire to investigate the Church. Through his sister's (Mary) help he studied the gospel and was baptized later by Elder Joseph Hall, the man whose sermon he listened to at the time he intended to break up the meeting.
He was married twice. Both wives died in England. He was a widower when he immigrated to the United States of America in 1853. While coming across the ocean, he met Ann Elizabeth Hunt, the daughter of John Hunt and Mary Danby, who was also an L.D.S. convert. She was coming to Utah with her mother and sister, the only members of a family of six to join. They crossed the plains the same year. While crossing the Mississippi River, Mrs. Hunt became very ill. She was a frail woman, and the trip was too hard for her. Thomas Doxey and Ann Hunt were now engaged to be married, and at her mother's request, they were married on the plains, August 10, 1853. When they reached the spot about where Laramie, Wyoming, stands, Mrs. Hunt grew worse. The Captain stopped the company, and at ten o'clock that morning, she passed away. As she was so loved and respected by all, they decided to give her the best burial possible. A coffin was made from lumber taken from the top of the commissary wagon by some of the pioneers in the company. The top of the grave was covered by rocks to prevent wild animals from disturbing it.
When the company was a number of days travel from Zion, the provisions grew low, and it was necessary to send a few men to Salt Lake to let them know of their condition. The flour was divided equally among the families. Thomas Doxey was one of the men chosen to go ahead. His wife made all the flour they had into small cakes for him to take with him. Some time before this, Ann H. Doxey had hurt her leg in an accident (she fell, and one of the wagon wheels went over her leg), so she had to ride the rest of the way. When her husband left, she gave him all the food, so was forced, unbeknownst to the others, to go without. Several days later, they found her very sick and weak from lack of food. As soon as the men arrived in Salt Lake City and reported to President Brigham Young, food and other necessities were sent to the company.
When the company arrived in the valley, Ann Doxey joined her husband, who was now working on the Salt Lake Temple. Their first home was a little one-room adobe house on Brigham Street (South Temple -- on the south side about to 2nd East). Here they lived for about three years and were very happy, for they now had the necessities of life. In this home their first son, Alma, was born.
One day President Young went to the temple building and told every man there to move north and settle the land, to engage in farming, etc.. He told them to settle anywhere between Salt Lake City and Ogden, going no further north than Ogden. They were expecting another baby at this time, and were so much in love with their little home that they regretted to go, but they felt it was their duty to obey the President of the Church.
They sold their home for a yolk of oxen and a wagon and moved to Ogden. Here they settled on a small farm, where 27th street now is, near Wall Street, and engaged in farming. They first lived in a one-room house made of logs and dirt and with one window and a door. An iron rod was placed across the adobe fireplace, and an iron pot was hung on the rod and used for cooking the vegetables, meat, and bread. Everything was cooked in this manner. All their clothes were made by the mother. The wool, after being clipped from the sheep, was sent to the mill and made into rolls. Then she spun the yarn into thread and then wove it into cloth. All the dresses, men's and boy's suits, coats, stockings, and other clothing were made by hand.
Six weeks after Thomas and Ann Elizabeth Hunt Doxey moved to Ogden, a baby daughter was born to them. She was named Mary Ann, and was born on August 28, 1856. All her early childhood was spent at this home. At an early age, she helped with the work around the house, and also with the spinning, etc.. Five other children were born to this couple: Janie, a daughter who died at the age of 21 months; and four other boys, David, Moroni, Samuel, and Thomas.
At the time Johnson's army came to Utah to destroy the Saints, Mary Ann was eighteen months old. Her father was called with others to go to Weber Canyon to defend themselves. He was chosen captain of Company C. While her father was away from home, Mary Ann was seriously ill. Her mother sent for President Brigham Young to come and administer to her. As he could not come at that time, he asked if anyone among the men had some blackberry brandy. Bishop Chancey West gave him some, so he blessed it and told them to take it to her with instructions to give the baby one teaspoonful each day and she would recover. After the third day, the baby began to improve. Soon after, her mother moved with her children to Spanish Fork, and stayed there until all danger was over. While there she gave birth to her son, David, on June 13, 1858.
When Mary Ann was eight years of age, she was baptized by Robert McQuarrie on July 6, 1865. When she was a small child, an Indian came to the door of their cabin. Without knocking, he walked in and demanded food. He asked for the meat that they had stored for winter, but as this was scarce she, her mother, gave him some bread and molasses. He was angry and threw it into her face. President Young always advised the people to feed the Indians and not fight them, and this they tried to do. At one time, Mary Ann was present when five hundred Indians smoked the Pipe of Peace with the Latter-day Saints on the Square, which is now where the city and county building stands in Ogden City.
Being the only girl, it was necessary for Mary Ann to work hard, for it was impossible to hire help then. At Christmas time, her mother would make cookies and molasses candy for gifts. Other gifts consisted of rag dolls and toys carved from wood. She attended school at intervals, at first being taught in a private home where slate and slate pencil were the only materials available for writing, and there were few books other than the Bible, Book of Mormon, Pilgrim's Progress, and a copy book. Later she attended the Second Ward Schoolhouse (which stood where the Elk's Lodge is now located on Grant Avenue), under the leadership of D.H. Peery. Here they were required to pay three months tuition at a time. The school was composed of one room. The pupils sat on benches and used slates and slate pencils. The room was heated with a stove in which wood, the only fuel they had, was burned. Still later, she attended school under the leadership of Professor Louis Moench. They then had copy books -- the teacher putting a line on top of the sheet, and the pupils being permitted to write a few lines each day under the copy. Paper was very expensive so it had to be conserved.
When the first railroad was completed in Ogden, Mary Ann was 12 years old. The arrival of the first train was a great event. That day about 500 children and many women and men were at the track. The town band was also there. When the train pulled in, the engineer blew the whistle very loudly. The note was so strange that all the children were frightened. Many ran home and hid.
During Mary Ann's early childhood, most of the children wore shoes only during the winter time, as they were very expensive and had to be made by hand. In the fall, the pioneers dried their fruit for winter use. The vegetables that could be kept in the ground were pitted, and the corn and beans were dried. Before vegetables were plentiful, wild roots and plants were used instead, and it was part of the children's work to gather these. Sugar cane was grown by the farmers, and when it was ripe, it was taken to the mill, ground, and made into molasses.
Molasses was used for all sweetening instead of sugar. The corn was shelled, ground, and used as a cereal. Candles were used for light. They were made from tallow (suct) by the family. Before the candles were used, they used a piece of cloth and a button -- laying them in a tin of grease. Later years, after the railroad came, coal oil was shipped here and used for lighting. Mary Ann's mother was an accomplished milliner, often using her hair for thread.
When Mary Ann was sixteen, her mother, Ann Elizabeth Hunt Doxey, passed beyond, dying of childbirth. A covered wagon was used for a hearst. Thomas Doxey, nine months before the death of his wife Ann, married Mary Hill Burt, the widow of Daniel Burt. At that time, she was the mother of one son, Dan. A few weeks after the death of Ann Doxey, Mary Burt Doxey came to the home to live. She was the mother of the following children by Thomas Doxey: James, Ellen, Rose, John, William, Alice, George, Albert, Clara, and Susana. This large family meant much hard work and sacrifice.
As a girl, Mary Ann was a Sunday School teacher in the Second Ward -- her father was the superintendent for many years. Later, Sisters Eliza R. Snow and Nina Young organized the Mutual Improvement Association in Ogden, in the Old Seventies Hall (an old rock building on Grant Avenue near 25th Street). The following being set apart by Eliza R. Snow: Sister C.C. Richards, president; Mary Ann Riley, 1st assistant; Mary Ann Watkins 2nd assistant; and Mary Ann Ellis, secretary.
At the age of 23, on April 30, 1879, Mary Ann Doxey married Joseph Hyrum Watkins, the son of Edward John and Elizabeth Lawrence Watkins, in the Salt Lake Endowment House. (The temple was not finished at this time.) The same day he, Joseph Hyrum, married Mary Ann Ellis, age 23; she being his second wife. At first Mary Ann and Joseph Hyrum lived with his mother on 25th Street. While at home, he and his father built the first two-story brick building on that street. This building was first rented as a government post office. The family lived on the second floor. The next building built and owned by them was a lumber store, where his father maintained a boot and shoe store. He made the boots and shoes himself.
Seven months after their marriage, they were called on a colonizing mission (Indian) to St. Johns, Arizona. They were among the first Latter-day Saint families to go there. They left November 4, 1879, in company with William James, his wife, and his two children, who were called on the same mission. The journey was made in a covered wagon drawn by a team of mules. The trip took nearly two months, as much of the time they were forced to travel through snow storms and unbroken roads.
While they were on their way to Arizona, they saw a band of Indians coming towards them. As they knew only the power of their Heavenly Father could help them, they prayed for protection. The Indians rode straight toward their wagons, and then they circled around and around them, yelling and hooping and waving their tomahawks and bows. After keeping this up for several minutes, the chief of the band yelled something to the others and gave them the signal to leave. This they did without harming any of the group. This deliverance they felt was a direct answer to prayer, as many people were victims of marauding Indians at that time.
They arrived at St. Johns, December 23. While in St. Johns, they lived in a one room hut made of logs and mud with a dirt roof. The spring seat of the wagon served as a chair and a large box as a table. Joseph Hyrum made a bed of six cedar posts (four for the posts and one on each side) and rope (the rope being run back and forth across and woven through from top to bottom). The floor was of dirt and there was only one window and door. A large blanket was used for a door at first. They lived mostly on beans, a little mutton, and a little flour they bought. Later they sieved the ground grains (barley, wheat, oats) they had for the horses, and used the finer for their bread. Joseph Hyrum dug the first well in St, Johns. He dug until he reached a rock bottom; here he reached a large flow of water. All the people came here for their water as it was the best that could be obtained anywhere around.
The Latter-day Saint settlement was next to the Mexican town. Joseph Hyrum, Samuel Browning, and others were called as minute men when trouble happened to settle difficulties. They built a barn at one time for man named Sol Barth; when it was completed they were paid in cash. This made it possible for them to have a little better food that winter. After they had been there for about two months, a baby girl was born, which died at birth after being named Lily May. She was the first white child born in St. Johns. One year lacking three days, a son was born who was named Hyrum Lawrence. His birthday was February 13, 1881. After they had been in St. Johns for two years, Mary Ann Ellis Watkins joined them.
They all lived in the one room together. These two woman lived together for nearly one year, and never at any time did they disagree or have one cross word with one another. They had been friends before their marriage and were friends until death. Mary Ann Ellis Watkins lived only nine months after coming to St. Johns. She died following the birth of a premature baby (6 months) which was named George Alma Watkins.
While in Arizona, Joseph Hyrum worked as a carpenter part of the time. Later because of his knowledge of the Spanish language, he worked in the Church store (ZCMI) as a clerk and bookkeeper. He also kept the church records and tithing records. After they had been there for some time, a Sunday School was organized and he was made the superintendent.
One summer they tried to run an Indian farm, but it was not very successful. They only received sixty bushels of wheat for all their summer's work. The Mexicans raised a ton of beans for the government, but they were condemned, so they sold them to the Latter-day Saints for three cents a pound -- thus supplying them with food until another crop could be harvested. They felt that this was a blessing from the Lord.
The first time that the fourth of July was celebrated was the second year they were there. They had a big celebration, and Joseph Hyrum was the marshall of the day. Mary Ann Ellis and Mary Ann Doxey Watkins made the first American flag that was ever flown over St. Johns, it being used this day. The flag was made of cotton and was thirteen feet long.
While she was in Arizona, Mary Ann was protected many times by the hand of the Lord. Once when she was left alone at night, the light from the window attracted a crowd of drunken Mexicans who threatened her life because she was a Mormon. A blind neighbor, who knew of her goodness came and protected her by talking to them and persuading them to leave without hurting her. She was warned never to leave her light on again at night when she was alone. So when her husband was away at night meetings (which they held in the boweries, as they had no buildings at the time) many times she would walk up and down the street by the bowery, afraid to stay at home for fear of the Mexicans.
After three years work, they were released from the mission as Joseph Hyrum had such poor health. They came home with Samuel E. Browning who had been on the mission also. The journey home took six weeks. When they arrived in Salt Lake City, they saw electric lights for the first time. On arriving in Ogden, they made their home in a two-room log cabin on 26th Street between Grant and Lincoln Avenue. Here they lived for two or three years. A daughter, Mary Elizabeth and a son Thomas Doxey were born at this place.
At one time she accompanied her father to Logan to work in the Logan Temple. While here, they were told that Thursday and Friday of that week had been set apart for a company of five hundred Indians, who were going to do their own work, and only their race was allowed on those days. They visited the Indian camp, and often told afterwards how very neat and clean the Indians were.
When the mother of Joseph Hyrum died on February 22, 1886, they moved to the 25th Street home. This was the store built by Joseph Hyrum and his father. The living quarters were on the second floor. Alice and Bessie, sisters of Joseph Hyrum, and one brother, Franklin Richard, lived with them here. They lived here for one year and then moved to a frame house on Grant Avenue between 27th and 28th Streets. Here Ruby May, a daughter, was born. During the time Joseph Hyrum came from his mission and until he was appointed city inspector, he worked at cabinet making. In 1887 they built a one-story brick house, consisting of six rooms, at 239 27th St. Later this home was remodeled and made into a two-story brick. Here the following children were born: John Franklin, Joseph Hyrum Jr., Mabel Roszelta, David Doxey, Ellis Doxey, Pearl Viola, Eva, Jane, and Rollo Edward. Mary Ann was forty-seven years old when her fourteenth and last child was born. Besides rearing ten members of her family, she cared for and mothered her husband's sister and brother, Bessie and Franklin Watkins, from the time of their mother's death until their marriage. She also cared for her two younger brothers, Samuel and Thomas.
She was a Relief Society visiting teacher for over thirty years in the Ogden Second Ward. As a reward for the faithful services in the work of the Lord, they were given their second endowments in the Salt Lake temple. There she also did much work for her kindred dead.
Her home was always a gathering place for the old and the young. They gathered there to enjoy themselves, and she had a great influence for good on them. All who partook of her hospitality were enriched by her virtues and graces. She was affectionately called "Aunt Mary Ann" by numerous younger friends.
Death came to her at the age of 79 years, on Friday evening, May 22, 1936, at nineteen o'clock at the family home, following a six week illness of a heart condition. She would have been eighty years old August 28th of that year. At the time of her death, she had seven living children, nineteen grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
Many beautiful tributes were given to her by her friends. The following being a few of them: "The greatness of her soul and integrity of her heart can be attributed to the trials and privations through which she has passed." "She was one of the finest women of the Church -- a real pioneer in every sense of the word, one of the finest of mothers, best of wives, a choice woman in exemplary life." "No father and mother ever left a more valuable legacy to their children than has Brother and Sister Watkins. The lives they lived, their splendid examples, are worth more than all the wealth in the world."
She was indeed a true and faithful handmaiden of God, who was never more happy than when she was giving service to her Church, her family, and her friends.
Marriage Notes for Joseph Hyrum Watkins and Mary Ann DOXEY-21
MARRIAGE: by Apostle Franklin D Richards
DEATH: Lived 5 hours.
DEATH: Lived 4 1/2 hours.
Ordained a deacon 29 May 1927
BURIAL: Buried in same grave with neice, Betty Jan Farr.
Windows of the Past by Wiggins
For a history, see notes on Ethel Fern Oram.
IMMIGRATION: Came on the ship "Constitution"
CENSUS: 10 years of age.
CENSUS: Age 48.
Had a stillborn daughter abt 1902
Windows of the Past by Wiggins
Pioneers and Prominent Men of Utah, p.1147
CENSUS: Age 42.
Records of Ruby Harris Oram
For a history, see notes on Ethel Fern Oram.
BURIAL: Burial Lot A_ 180_ 6_ 8
CENSUS: Emer M Harris age 43, Wife Louisa 24, Ethel 17, Ruby 15, Leroy 13, Della 11 and Ida 2.
by Luman A. Shurtliff
Hannah Montgomery Wood POULTER Twin
Known as "Monta"
Born on Board the ship Montgomery enroute to the USA from England. She was named for Captain Wood and the ship.
Marriage found in her autograph book written by her brother, Thomas James Poulter.
For a history, see notes on Ethel Fern Oram.
The Standard, Number 100, Vol. V
Death or Mrs. Harris.
The many friends of Mrs. H. M. W. Harris, wife of Emer Harris, and twin daughter of Thomas and Hannah Poulter, will learn with Sorrow of her death, caused by childbirth. She departed this life at Benson Ward, Cache county, April 13th, leaving behind her a loving and grief-stricken husband and five children.
Mrs. Harris was born April 19, 1834, on the sea in the Gull of Mexico while her parents were on their way from England to a new home. Her parents came to Utah the following year. At the age of 12 her mother died, leaving her the eldest of four children. She faithfully aided in bringing them up which her brother and two sisters will testify, they and her father feeling her loss a most as keenly as those who are still nearer.
Before marriage, she was known among her friends as Monta Polter and many were those who loved her for her kindness and parity of heart. The ladies relief society with which she was associated with for five years as secretary, has not forgotten her labors there.
Her brother is Thomas Poulter and her sisters, Mrs. Isaac Farr and Mrs. William Williams, all well known in this city.
The following verses have been Inscribed to her memory by Mrs. Elizabeth Read, an old friend of the family;
As daughter and sister, wife, mother and
friend,
She filled all the dutties-was true to the end;
In every department of life, she was found kind,
useful and patient with pure mind, and sound.
May God In his mercy, her little ones bless;
We breathe a prayer o'er them, while we
Carress
And may they, with us-who are left-emulate
Her virtues,
and rise to the same bless'd estate.
For surely, if worthiness meets with reward,
Her merits lay claim to the promise of God,
Who said, come to me, when weary of this,
I'll prepare you a place in the mansions of
bliss.
Marriage Notes for Emer Martin Harris and Hannah Montgomery Wood POULTER Twin-2853
MARRIAGE: Married by D. H. Wells.
A Patriarchal Bleasing given by William Budge upon the head of Sister Della Harris.
Dear Sister Della Harris at your request I lay my hands upon your head to bestow upon you a Patriarchal blessing, and inasmuch as you have faith in the promises of the Almighty to His people through the exercise of the Holy Priesthood I say unto you prepare thy mind and thoughts to receive the blessings that may be given unto you. You are of the household of Israel and therefore entitled to the fulness of the blessings promised according to your sex through Abraham to his seed through all generations. The Lord will bless and sustain you dear sister in all your efforts to serve Him, to keep His commandments and to make manifest your desire to assist in building up His work among the children of men. You will be a help to your friends and relatives and a comfort to them, and you will be able to strengthen those that are weak. The spirit of the Almighty will enlighten you that you will readily understand the principles, and the requirements of all Saints. The power of the Almighty will be made manifest in your behalf and you will be preserved from danger and from temptation and the seductions of the spirit of the world. You will be able to comfort and strengthen those with whom you associate and they will rejoice in your companionship. You will have temptations, but the Lord will preserve you. You will be in danger, but He will protect you and guide you through life inasmuch as you seek the spirit and follow its directions. You will experience the operations of the spirit of the Almighty. You will realize that His hand is over you for good and you will be instrumental in assisting in the developement of the work of the Lord.
I by the Authority of the Holy Priesthood seal upon you all the blessings of the Almighty that are promised to the faithful, and that will add to your usefulness, and your satisfaction that this work is of God. I do bless you and through your faithfulness seal you up unto eternal life with the righteous, by the authority of the Holy Priesthood and in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen
Logan Utah. July 17th 1908
The following appeared in the Ogden Standard Examiner for the Aug. 2006
Winslow Farr Sr. Family Reunion:
OGDEN - When the descendants of Ogden's first mayor meet in Ogden this week, they will ponder Lorin Farr's hat, wander around his old fort, gaze upon his tombstone and hear the latest discoveries regarding his deoxyribonucleic acid.
The other stuff just sits in museums or on the ground, but Farr's DNA has been doing some interesting stuff of late. Everyone is very excited.
Farr became Ogden's first mayor, unofficially, in 1850 when he was sent to the area now called Ogden by Brigham Young, leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Farr's title was made official in a special election in 1851. He kept the job 22 years, off and on, and had a career that included American Indian troubles, a brief move to Southern Utah, the coming of the Transcontinental Railroad, a mission in England and getting arrested for having five wives too many.
He beat the polygamy rap and went on to meet with President Theodore Roosevelt, who was stumping the country encouraging large families as a way to avoid "race suicide."
Farr, who at the time had 326 descendants, certainly qualified. Since then, in raw numbers, the Farr family has done all right by itself.
David Farr, Mission Viejo, Calif., president of the Winslow Farr Sr. Organization, serves as a central coordinator for the Farr family.
Winslow Farr Sr. was Lorin Farr's father. David Farr's best guess is there are perhaps 8,000 descendants of Winslow Farr. There are probably 40,000 for the whole family, if you add in ancestors, their other descendants and so forth, he said.
Descendants meet
The reunion, which runs Thursday through Saturday, won't draw anywhere near that many relatives. North Ogden resident Duane Manscill, who is organizing a bus tour of Farr historical sites, guesses there will be about 400 Farr relations at the reunion. He has 100 seats for the bus tour and expects them to sell out.
David Farr said the reunion is held every two years and is actually for descendants of Winslow Farr Sr. and his wife, Olive. They usually pick one descendent to focus on. This year, the focus is on Lorin Farr.
"The meeting is about our mission statement, research, telling the stories, focusing on Winslow and Olive and the five children," said David Farr. "We hold classes on them. We want to communicate our heritage to the descendants of the Farr family, to strengthen families this way."
Mysterious origins
One major advance this year was not in finding descendants of Lorin Farr, but his antecedents. That is where Farr's DNA comes in. It will be a major topic at the reunion.
Members of the LDS faith are scrupulous about genealogical records for religious reasons. Before the faith was founded by Joseph Smith, however, people were not so careful about keeping track of who was who.
Lorin Farr's great-great-great-grandfather, Stephen Farr, was a puzzle. He just seemed to show up in America around the early 1670s, with no hint of his origins.
St. George resident Tim Farr, the clan's chief genealogist, said they are pretty sure Stephen Farr was born in 1640, but the earliest positive paper record they have of him is his 1674 marriage.
But where did he come from? He was a Puritan, living in Massachusetts, which meant he probably came to America from England. Beyond that, nothing was certain.
Tim Farr said he was able to narrow it down to a Farr family in Bedfordshire, England, mostly by laboriously searching old records for people named Stephen Farr who did not connect up properly in other places through the existing documents.
He found one Stephen Farr, in Bedfordshire, England, who seemed to fit the bill. How to be sure?
Internet, science help
That's where DNA testing came in.
Tim Farr posted the Farr ancestry on the Internet and, subsequently, was contacted by a man in Belgium named Stephen Timothy Farr. This fellow told him he had looked into his own ancestors and there seemed to be a lot of similarities to what Tim Farr had found.
So David Farr in this country took a DNA test. Stephen Timothy Farr in Belgium took the same test. The test looked for a particular strand of DNA that is carried intact through male descendants.
They found that strand in both Farrs and it matched, Tim Farr said.
"It's actually a pretty major thing," he said. It provided first proof of from where in England the Farr family came. It also connected the family in America to a whole new branch in Belgium, England and around Europe.
Mike Farr, who runs Farr's Ice Cream in Ogden, said he's glad to see his great-great-grandfather the focus of this year's reunion.
The bus tour includes his family's ice cream shop where, yes, he said, they will get free Farr's ice cream. He'll also be with them when they visit a monument to his ancestor in the Ogden Municipal Gardens.
"They asked me if I will say a few things at that, and I will be doing that," he said.
His great-great-grandfather will be there, too, in a way.
"I will be dressed in a suit that was Lorin Farr's," he said, which like the former mayor's memory, is carefully preserved and handed down.
[End of Article]
When he was eight years old, his parents moved north into the town of Charleston, Orleans county, Vermont where his father bought a farm. In the spring of 1832, when Lorin was eleven years of age, the family, for the first time, heard the gospel preached by Orson Pratt and Lyman E. Johnson. Although but eleven years of age Lorin's mind was prepared to receive the testimony of these servants of God, so he was baptized by Lyman E. Johnson, in Clide river, near his father's house, and confirmed by Orson Pratt. In the fall of 1837, Father Farr, who with his family had joined the Church, sold his farm and moved to Kirtland, Ohio. In the spring of 1838, Lorin started for Far West, Mo., where he arrived May 1st, and made his home with the Prophet Joseph Smith. He passed through most of the persecutions heaped upon the Saints in Missouri, and when they were driven from the State, he went to Quincy, and in the spring of 1840 settled in Nauvoo, Ill. In the spring of 1843 he was called upon a mission, by the Prophet Joseph, to the Middle and Eastern States, with the instruction to go wherever the spirit led him He was performing this duty when the sad news of the martyrdom of the Prophet Joseph and Patriarch Hyrum reached him. Elder Farr remained in the field, comforting and strengthening the Saints, until late in November, 1844, when he returned to Nauvoo. Jan. 1, 1845, he was married to Miss Nancy B. Chase, by Pres. Brigham Young. Elder Farr was with the Saints during all their troubles in Nauvoo and assisted in building the Temple. In the spring of 1847, he prepared to go to Great Salt Lake valley, where he arrived Sept. 20th of that year. He lived in Salt Lake City till the spring of 1850, when he was called by Pres. Brigham Young to go to Ogden to preside over the Saints in the northern part of the Territory. The following year (1851), when the Weber Stake of Zion was organized, Elder Farr was called and set apart as the president of the Stake. This position he held until 1870, when he was called on a mission to Europe, where he remained until 1871. Elder Farr has served as mayor of Ogden city for many terms; he also represented Weber county in the Territorial legislature from the organization of the Territory until he was disfranchised, excepting one year while on his mission to Europe. He is a public spirited man and has done much for the advancement of the kingdom of God and the commonwealth. (See also Tullidge's History, Vol. 2, Bio. 172.)
Settled at Ogden 1850. First president Weber stake; president high priests' quorum in 1850-51. Erected first grist mill and sawmill in Weber county. Member first territorial legislature from Weber county, and in the earlier days represented Box Elder county from the time of the organization of the territory until 1887; first mayor of Ogden 1851-70, and re-elected in 1877. Missionary to Europe 1870. Prominent in building of railroads; superintendent of grading Central Pacific for two hundred miles west of Ogden, and also building of Utah Northern to Brigham City. Died Jan. 12, 1909, Ogden.
Pioneers and Prominent Men of Utah, p.1313
Sun. 26. Pres. Brigham Young and party held meetings with the Saints in the south fort, Ogden, when Lorin Farr was chosen President of the Weber Stake, with Charles R. Dana and David B. Dille as counselors.
Our Pioneer Heritage, Vol. 14, p.490
Lorin Farr Sawmill Lorin Farr was called by Brigham Young to build a sawmill at Ogden. In the spring of 1850 he chose a site southeast of the present "Old Mill Inn," 1251 Canyon Road. Logs were cut in Ogden Canyon and floated down the river. A dam was made to divert the water to form a mill pond in which the logs collected. Men cutting logs for Farr received 50% of the logs as pay. The saws were run by water power. The first sawyer was Joseph Harris. The mill was abandoned in 1873.
Our Pioneer Heritage, Vol. 13, p.21
On the 14th of September, that year, elder Woodruff recorded the death of Ezra T. Benson, who died suddenly at Ogden City, at the home of Elder Lorin Farr. The following Sunday elder Woodruff preached a discourse in the Tabernacle, [p. 22] in honor of Brother Benson, and gave a brief sketch of his life. He said that on that occasion there were about sixty ladies and gentlemen from Ohio, who occupied the front benches and who gave strict attention to what was said.
Our Pioneer Heritage, Vol. 14, p.489
Lorin Farr Gristmill With lumber available from the sawmill built by Lorin Farr, and rock plentiful nearby, a 30 x 40 foot, two-story flour mill was built by Lorin Farr in the fall of 1850, on Canyon Road. The grain was ground by the use of burrs, several of which were set up. The bottom burr remained stationary, while the upper burr was propelled slowly by wooden paddles turned by water power. It was placed evenly between the burrs and sifted slowly by way of numerous grooves, chiseled at 45-degree angles. This process required constant watching and it was necessary to sharpen these grooves often. The first burrs were made from rock from our mountains and proved too soft, cracking and crumbling. The next were made from granite like that used in the Salt Lake Temple. This proved too hard, striking fire and scorching the grain. Other experiments were made until suitable material was found.
[p.490] In the Ogden City Directory of 1883, we find the following description of his mill: "There was a substantial stone building with frame wings and stone houses. The power supplied by a flume nearby, one mile in length, running from the Ogden River to the mill. There are four run of stone burrs with a capacity of some 10,000 pounds of flour per day. John P. Williams ground the first and last grist from 1862 to 1897. Joseph Stonebreaker was the first miller." Lorin Farr Sawmill Lorin Farr was called by Brigham Young to build a sawmill at Ogden. In the spring of 1850 he chose a site southeast of the present "Old Mill Inn," 1251 Canyon Road. Logs were cut in Ogden Canyon and floated down the river. A dam was made to divert the water to form a mill pond in which the logs collected. Men cutting logs for Farr received 50% of the logs as pay. The saws were run by water power. The first sawyer was Joseph Harris. The mill was abandoned in 1873.
Biographical Sketch of Lorin Farr (1820- )
Source: Biographical sketch of Lorin Farr typed from the original photostat from Bancroft Library. The original was written on stationery with the following letterhead:
CLIFT HOUSE, S. C. Ewing, Proprietor.
Room and Board, $2.00 per day. Salt Lake City, .......188
Lorin Farr of Ogden, born Caladona County, Vermont, July 20, 1820. Remained there and attended the schools at that time. Moved with his parents to Kirtland, Ohio, in 1838. Moved to Missouri 1839. Went to Nauvoo then to Council Bluffs. In 1847 came to Utah with Captain Spencers Company of over 600 wagons. Nearly 5000 people remaining till spring of 1850.
Located in Ogden building a saw and grist mill, the first north of Salt Lake City. Also helped build first mill in Utah. Has followed the milling business until the present time. I 1868 built the Ogden Woolen Mills in connection with Randall Rugsley and Neil. He also followed merchandising for several years buying a stock of good costing $30, 000. Setting out in 1869. Has also been and is a extensive farmer owning 300 acres of farmland all subject to irrigation.
Then he came to Ogden. Was elected as mayor which office he held for 20 years. After 6 years out? [p.2] was elected for a term of 2 years. Was appointed as president of the stake of Weber Co. which he held for 20 years. Then going to Europe and being obliged to resign his position as president of the stake. Has also been a member of the Territorial Legislature from the time of its organization until the last session, when he was disfranchised...but having never broken to law neither the law of 1862 or the recent Edmonds law.
Has always taken an active part in all matters pertaining to the welfare to the Church or Territory. Was the principal mover in building the roads through the Ogden Canyon. Also held the contract with Benson & West for constructing 200 miles of the C.P. Also took an active part in building the U.U., also the Utah Central. Was instrumental in seeing the R.R. Depot at Ogden. Also in getting the D & R G into Ogden making several trips to Denver for that purpose. He raised a family of 38 children, the youngest being 16 years. All respectable and well educated. Has also buried 9 children.
Lorin Farr
Orson F. Whitney, History of Utah, Vol. 4, p.106
The Farrs of Utah are a numerous and an influential family, especially in Weber county, where the subject of this story resides. The life of Hon. Lorin Farr has been active, useful, and replete with interesting incidents. Than he, none of the founders of our States have made more honorable records, whatever may be said of more illustrious ones. To speak of greater gifts and larger opportunities, is not to disparage those possessed by a man whose abilities as a colonizer, a law-maker and an executive are so well known and recognized.
The simple fact that for twenty-two years he was mayor of the second city in Utah is an eloquent tribute to his worth and the esteem in which he was held by his fellow citizens. Those were times, too, when the best men were sought for and put in office, men of honesty and integrity, who could be relied upon to expend the public revenues wisely and economically and administer the affairs of government in the interest of the entire people. No man was given office as a reward for political service, partisan politics was almost unknown, and the spoils system had no place in public life. For a period of equal length to that during which he was Mayor of Ogden, Mr. Farr presided over the Weber Stake of Zion, and for twenty-eight years he represented Weber, Box Elder and Cache counties, and some of the time Carson county, in the Territorial legislature.
Lorin Farr was born July 27, 1820, in Waterford, Caledonia county, Vermont. His parents were Winslow and Olive Hovey Freeman Farr, and his earliest American ancestor was George Farr, who emigrated from London, England, in 1629, as a ship-builder for a Boston company. His father was a well-to-do farmer, prominent and influential, holding the office of judge of the county court. When Lorin was about eight years old the family moved to Charleston, Orleans county, forty miles north of their former home, and it was there that they became connected with Mormonism. They were converted under the preaching of Orson Pratt who, by the laying on of hands, was instrumental in healing Mrs. Farr of consumption and other ailments from which she had been a sufferer for five years. The healing was instantaneous and permanent; she who was then an invalid, thirty-two years of age, living until she was ninety-four.
Lorin was baptized a Latter-day Saint in the spring of 1832, being then eleven years of age. Five years later he removed with his parents to northern Ohio, and in the general Mormon migration from that part to the State of Missouri, he and his brother Aaron walked the whole distance from Kirtland to Far West. This was in the spring of 1838. The following winter he was in the exodus of his people from Missouri to Illinois, and while in both those States he lived a good deal of the time in the family of the Prophet Joseph Smith.
Hitherto a farmer and a carpenter, Lorin, who had received a good common education, now turned his attention to school teaching. He taught for a number of years at Nauvoo and the vicinity, the children of the Prophet and those of Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, John Taylor and other leading men being among his pupils. In the spring of 1842, by direction of the Prophet, he was ordained an Elder of the Church, and in the fall of 1844, under the hands of Elder Charles C. Rich, was ordained to the office of High Priest. While still at Nauvoo, on New Year's day, 1845, he married his first wife, Nancy B. Chase. Early the next year he bade farewell to that city and the State of Illinois, and with the main body of the exiled Saints passed over the frozen Mississippi and traveled across the Territory of Iowa on his way to the Rocky Mountains. From the Missouri river, where he remained until the summer of 1847, he journeyed [p.107] westward in the companies that followed immediately behind the Pioneers, leaving the Elk Horn in June. These companies comprised about six hundred wagons, with fifteen hundred human beings and five thousand head of stock. His individual outfit was a wagon, two yoke of oxen, two yoke of cows and provisions to last him and those dependent upon him eighteen months. His family was then small, consisting of his wife and his little son Enoch. He first traveled in A. O. Smoot's hundred and George B. Wallace's fifty, but during the latter part of the journey he was in Daniel Spencer's hundred and Ira Eldredge's fifty. He reached Salt Lake valley September 21, 1847.
After living awhile in the "Old Fort," he moved onto a lot north-west of the Temple block and adjoining the corner now occupied by the residence of Hon. Moses Thatcher. His first domicile in the valley was his wagon box, taken off the running-gears and made into a temporary abode; but he and his brother Aaron soon hauled logs from the canyon and built homes of a more comfortable character. Their houses in the fort had whip sawed lumber floors and were among the best constructed there. Lorin had brought with him from Winter Quarters all kinds of seeds, and these he planted in the spring of 1848. Most of his crop was devoured by the crickets before they were destroyed by the, gulls, but he raised enough to support his family till another harvest time, and had considerable to spare. Some of his neighbors were forced to eat thistle roots, raw hides and even wolf meat. Many put their families upon rations. He was not reduced to this necessity, owing to the fact, he says, that he had an economical wife, who managed so well that the family had enough to eat and something to give away.
In March, 1850, by special request of President Young, Lorin Farr removed to Ogden "to locate and take charge of the northern colonies." He with Charles Hubbard built, in the summer of the same year, the first saw mill and grist mill north of Salt Lake City. In the fall he bought out Mr. Hubbard and conducted the milling business alone for several years, after which he took in as a partner his brother Aaron.
In the fall of 1851 the colonists on the Weber had considerable trouble with the Indians, caused by the accidental killing of the Shoshone chief Terakee by Urban Stewart, one of the settlers. The chief, who was a noble specimen of his race, and very friendly to the whites, had gone into Mr. Stewart's cornfield one night about eleven o'clock to get his horses out of the corn, when the owner, hearing a noise and supposing it to proceed from some animal, wild or tame, that had strayed into his enclosure, imprudently fired his gun in that direction. The bullet struck Terakee, killing him instantly. Much beloved by his people, his tragic death was deeply lamented, and for a time it seemed as if the Shoshones could not be placated, but would take revenge on the whole colony for the unwise act of one of its members. As it was, the Indians, on the day following the accident, shot and killed one of Mr. Farr's men, his best mechanic, while at work upon his mills. Mr. Stewart regretted his rashness as much as any one, but that did not bring the dead to life, though his explanation and apologies, with the protestations of his associates, did much to appease the wrath of the red men. The settlers, however, fearful of a massacre, lived for several years in forts. A large portion of the immigration of 1851 was sent to strengthen the Weber county settlements. The first military organization of the county was formed about this time; it comprised all the militia in the Territory north of Davis county, and was organized by President Lorin Farr.
Elected Mayor of Ogden in the spring of 1851, he was re-elected every two years until he had had ten consecutive terms of office. He retired in November, 1870, but in 1876 was again elected for two years, making his aggregate period in the Mayoralty twenty-two years. From 1852 until 1880 he was a member of the Utah legislature. Meantime, in the summer of 1868, in connection with Chauncey W. West and Ezra T. Benson, he took a contract from Governor Leland Stanford, of California, President of the Central Pacific railroad, and did the grading for two hundred miles of that road west of Ogden.
In November, 1870, President Farr took his first and only foreign mission, which was to Europe. He had always been of a religious turn, and had done much preaching in his time, but his ministerial labors were generally at home, where his services were most needed. He not only preached the gospel, but practiced it, "trying to persuade men, women and children to live better lives in every way. I have labored all my life," he says, "to promote religious sentiment and make laws to protect the same. I have tried to do all the good I could, and as little harm as possible."
Mr. Farr was a member of the Constitutional Convention, which in 1895 framed the State Constitution upon which Utah was admitted into the Union. Since then he has led a quiet, uneventful life at his home in the city of Ogden. He is the father of forty children. His first wife, who has been named, and his plural wives, Sarah Giles, Olive Ann [p.108] Jones, Mary Bingham and Nicoline Erickson, are all dead. He has recently married again. Some years ago Mr. Farr met with an accident, a very painful fall, which at first threatened to be fatal, but he recovered and regained much of his old time sprightly vigor. At this writing he is in the eighty-third year of his age.
Fountain Green, Utah
August 10, 1992
Tim Farr
Box 449
Ferron, Utah 84523
Dear Brother Farr,
As I promised, even though a little late, the following is the essence of the remarks your great-grandfather made at the dedication of the Manti Temple:
"Elder Lorin Farr said he felt very thankful for the present privilege. For a year and a half he had not been able to stand before a congregation. For over fifty-six he had been connected with the, Church, and when a youth, he was intimately associated with the Prophet Joseph Smith. He never saw a man who manifested greater kindness and consideration towards his family than Joseph did. He, knew him then to be a prophet of God. A greater prophet never lived. He held the keys of all dispensations, and conferred the same, upon the Apostles. Temples would yet be built not only throughout America but in the various nations of Europe and Asia as well.
He could promise the saints that if they would be faithful, the present temple never should be taken from them nor destroyed. Faithful men had died in the past ages were engaged in the work of redemption in other spheres, which work would be connected with that performed in the Temples upon the earth. Millions of the dead were waiting for ordinances to be performed by the living in their behalf. He could testify that the Latter-day Saints were people, of God. It was the little stone cut out of the mountain without hands which was destined to fill the whole earth."
Tim, you can certainly be grateful for your progenitors. These men, those who built up this part of the West and had sacrificed so much, were some of God's choicest! They were men of great faith. How grateful we should be for them and for what we enjoy today because of their faith and sacrifice.
Very truly yours,
Victor J. Rasmussen
Death and funeral of Lorin Farr as described in the journal of Caroline Ballantyne Farr:
Jan 12 1909
Father Farr went up to the Hot Springs to take a bath and while in the warm pool he died. He was in the act of taking a plunge when life went out. When found, he was standing in the water with bowed head and hands extended. His body was still warm. Barlow Wilson and ________ Wallace went to his rescue. It was always his desire to go suddenly when his time came to leave this earth and his desire was granted. He was the best Father-law that ever lived with the exception of one, my own Father. We shall miss his dear face, one of the grandest among men. There is no feeling of gloom however, but a spirit of peace and love characteristic of him who has just left his place among the great ones who have lived on earth (Apostles and Prophets.) He was in his usual good health up to the moment of his death. His life just went out. He was standing in about four feet of water when found and his life gone out, and he did not fall. Surely the hand of God was made manifest in his behalf. I trust we may live lives that will be worthy of in other words that we may be worthy children of such a nobel father.
Sunday, Jan 17, 1908
At 2 o,clock in the Ogden Tabernacle was held the funeral service of Lorin Farr, our dear Father. No grander funeral was ever held, I believe here or at any other place. The speakers were President Joseph F. Smith, Joseph Parry, David 0. McKay, Moses Thatcher, George A. Smith, Fred J. Keisel, President L.W. Shurtliff and a poem in memory of the dedication of the Joseph Smith monument in Vermont which our Father was present with a company of about 30 members from Utah (He being the oldest.) He was the first of them to be called to the other side. It was a most beautiful poem written by Susie Y. Gates who was also one of the number who attended the dedication of that monument.
The Ogden Tabernacle choir were out in full force rendered most beautiful music under the direction of my brother Joseph Ballantyne. The decorations were beautiful. A calla lily blanket covered the casket. and many other beautiful flowers. There were at least 300 or 400 relatives present. The speakers were greatly inspired, and I have never heard grander words spoken of any human being than were said of him. They were spoken by a Prophet of the living God. I never felt more humble. I felt very small indeed and unworthy but hope to become worthy of a membership in his family.
Carriages were provided for all the relatives who all met at his terrace on the hill on 21st street and looked at him for the last time in this life.
BIRTH: Name recorded as Loring Farr in Waterford Vital Records.
CENSUS: Age 50, Mayor & Pub. Speaker.
Sarah Giles was born in Merthyr Tydfil, Glamorgan, Wales. She had five brothers and two sisters. Her family joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, when her father, a highly respected Baptist minister, heard and argued with the dynamic Welsh convert, Dan Jones.
Her family left Wales for Utah and crossed the Plains in the Clark Hubbard and Dan Jones Company, walking almost the entire way, encountering terrible snowstorms.
Her father died and was buried on the Plains, but her mother and two of the children, Thomas and Sarah arrived in the Salt Lake Valley in 1848. The rest of the family followed later in a handcart company.
Sarah was seventeen years of age and a beautiful young woman. She located in Ogden and there she met and became the plural wife of Lorin Farr on July 26, 1851. Lorin's first wife Nancy Bailey Chase formed a very supportive friendship with Sarah.
Sarah's life was full of sacrifice for others. She was small of stature, being about ninety-five pounds, and a very jovial disposition. Sarah was very prayerful and taught her children the importance of prayer. She accepted and carried out the counsel of her husband.
Sarah was endowed with talents for nursing. She frequently analyzed fevers and common ills with a glance at the patient. During the smallpox epidemic in the mid 1860's, Sarah was a wonder of patience, love, and expert care.
Lorin, her husband, was taken sick to the grove, which now bears his name, and spaced tents were filled with the inflicted and dying patients. Sarah took constant care of him. Few healthy persons dared to expose themselves to the deadly disease.
When asked by her grandson if it had been worth it, she answered, I was just thinking how blessed I''ve been. Though I left the land of my birth and most of my kin, I was led to the beautiful mountains of Zion to wed one of God s choicest souls. I lived to see peace and prosperity come to all of us. Every wish I ever expressed, your grandfather gratified. We are all, blessed my dear, and never forget it. It is due to God's blessing and the love of his children. I will not be with you for very long now, but every moment of my life has been happy.
Jas. T. Jakeman, Daughters of the Utah Pioneers and Their Mothers, p. 72 Sarah Giles Farr: When the Gospel of Christ was restored to earth in these latter days, the Lord commissioned men, as in days of old, to go into the world and preach the Gospel to the people. And, as in days of old, there were very few who were willing to receive it. But there were a few, and among them were Thomas Giles, his wife, Maria Davis Giles, and their family, which consisted of three sons and two daughters. These good people were residents of South Wales. They were devout members of the Baptist Church, but on learning of the restoration of the Gospel and of the re-establishment of the true Church of Christ on earth, they left the Baptist Church and united themselves with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Some time later the father, mother, a son and daughter bade farewell to their native land, to gather with the Saints in Utah. The father died while crossing the plains. The mother and two children arrived in Utah in 1848. The daughter Sarah, was a most estimable woman, and a true Latter-day Saint. She located in Ogden, and became a plural wife of one of Ogden's most prominent and highly-respected citizens Lorin Farr. She resided on the same lot in Ogden from the time of her arrival until her death, which took place in the winter of 1888. She was the mother of nine children, eight of whom survived her.
The Standard of Ogden, Utah, on Feb. 27th, 1892, writes of the Death of Mrs. Farr:
Mrs. Sarah Farr, wife of the Hon. Lorin Farr, died at her residence on Twenty First street yesterday morning. She had been confined to her home for the past eight months and to her bed for six weeks. She was rational to the last, knowing her friends and relatives until the closing moments. The family and the relatives watched at her bedside through the weary hours during which she suffered.
Mrs. Sarah Giles Farr was born in Merthyr Tydfil, Glamorganshire, South Wales, Jan. 11831. She came to the territory in 1849, two years after the Pioneers had opened the valley to civilization. In 1850 she married Lorin Farr and has resided in Ogden ever since. She died a faithful Latter Day Saints in full conviction of the principles she had espoused. She leaves her husband and eight children, Joseph, Thomas, Marcus, Winslow Farr, Mrs. Richard W Taylor, Mrs. Roxane Pidcock, Mrs. Ray Packard, and Mrs. Nora Pardoe.
The funeral service will be held at the residence on Sunday, Feb. 28th, at 11 a. m. All friends are kindly invited to attend.
The following was Written by Eva Farr Parry and read by Eva Farr Parry, a granddaughter.
Camp 57
SARAH GILES FARR
Arrived in Utah Early winter of 1848
Very little is known of her as no records were written of her life. She was born on January 1, 1831 at Merthyr Tydfil S. Wales in Glamorganshire, a daughter of Thomas Giles and Maria Davis. Her ancestry has been and is still impossible to find although much time and money has been spent for it. The research is at present going on. We know her paternal Grandparents and her maternal grandfather. She was the youngest of 8 children, 5 boys and 3 girls. The father was a Baptist Minister and her brothers worked in the coal mines.
Through a friend who had become interested and converted to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the father became interested and after many dynamic arguments was finally converted by his friend, Dan Jones. From the church records we learned he was baptized in l845. The entire family accepting baptism at the same time. The assassination of the Prophet Joseph and his brother Hyrum were convincing facts to him and his family. His testimony was so strong that he immediately began preaching the Gospel. They became anxious to join the saints in Zion that in no time they began collecting money and goods for the journey.' The father was 65 at the time. He continued preaching with the other missionaries until there were enough to make a company. The church obtained rates for them which was one for all immigrants. They set sail in the Dan Jones or Clark Hubbard Co. Only a pert of the family came at this time, the others soon followed. At this time ,the mother, father,. a son and his wife, and two daughters, Sarah and Mary came.
Nothing is known of the ocean voyage. They walked almost the entire distance to Salt Lake City arriving in early winter of 1848. Suffering many hardships and sorrows.
They suffered thru the cholera plague as well as the cold and snow storms coming into the valley. The father was buried on the plains' as was the son's wife. It was at this time that Sarah first knew of her gift for nursing. She went among the sick giving aid to those so sick and comforting the mourners. She was always cheerful and prayerful.
Sarah was the unobtrusive type and governed by quiet authority. She shunned publicity of any kind, but shared her husband's praises and prominence with happy smiles. For she had married Mayor Lorin Farr who was also president of the stake and this along called for much entertaining of church officials as well as civic dignitaries. She married Lorin Farr as his second wife July 26, 1851 in the endowment house. She was a very beautiful girl with snappy brown eyes, small of stature and weighing 95 pounds. She never weighed more. Sarah had a jovial disposition and always happy. She adored her husband and believed in him and his ability implicitly and his every wish was to her a command as far as she was concerned. Even as a little child, I well remember how she adored him. She bore him 9 children, 8 of whom she raised to man and womanhood, all married and raised large families.
She was an excellent housekeeper and a devoted mother. She taught each child the care of the home and gave each his or her responsibilities. She made all the hats for the families, braiding them out of straw. It seems she was an expert at it. The wives and all the children got along so well together and made life a pleasure. She was an aunt of John D. Giles of the pioneer trail.
Sarah was very prayerful and taught this to her children as well as to keep the Sabbath day holy. All work was done, all foods prepared the day before. Shoes were shined and baths taken. And on the Sabbath day was Sunday School and meetings, no rough playing, much reading and story telling. . The dishes were neatly put aside to be done the next morning.
She had many gifts and talents but the outstanding one was nursing the sick back to health. Therefore most of the stories of her life are connected with her remarkable and patient nursing. She could pick' up any crying baby of the families, of' which there were five, and it would quiet down almost immediately. She frequently analyzed fevers and common ills of life at a glance of the' patient and immediately got busy. She was a great comfort to the community.
During the devastating epidemic of virulent' small pox in the 1860's, Sarah was a wonder of love, patience, hope and expert care. Many died, but more lived. Her husband was stricken and taken to the grove which still bears his names. All who were stricken were immediately taken there. Tents were set Up for shelter. Sarah went with him as all the other wives were afraid to go and, she stayed the entire time until he was able to be brought home. It was her faith and prayers that kept her well. She worked very hard as there many patients and few nurses. People were afraid to go. She left 7 children un 12 years at home. They were chiefly cared for by Nancy, the first wife.
It was because of this dreadful disease that Lorin Farr studied and became an early advocate of vaccination.
Another story of interest was told in Fast meeting by Bishop Barney White. He had been called on a mission to the Eastern States and was very desirous of going. But his wife was seriously ill and needed certain daily care. What was he to do? He visited Pres. Farr and presented his problem. He advised him to go home and make it a matter of' fervent prayer and he would get an answer. He awoke one morning with the entire plan of action and a peaceful spirit of content in his heart. He immediately called upon Pres. Parr and told him a motivating dream had filled most of the night and he could go on his mission if Sarah Farr would come and care for his wife while he was away. Upon hearing of his manifestation, Sarah accepted the nursing request and made arrangements for her families comfort in her absence. He went upon his mission and upon his return home found his wife in perfect health and his home in excellent condition. He remained ever grateful to Sarah and the Lord.
Sarah had many, many experiences to build her pith. At one time her husband was in Pocatello on business. He was at the station waiting for his train. It was a very beautiful moonlight night. The kind that makes many shadows. He mistook one for steps leading to the train and stepped into space falling on his head. He was picked up unconscious. Members of the family went up and brought him home. He remained in this condition ten days, there being little change or hope of his recovery. Finally his son in law, John Henry Smith (later an apostle) came up from Salt Lake City and administered to him and although there were many in the room at the time, no one but Sarah saw an evil spirit leave his body and walk into the next room and enter the body of his wife, Nancy. She became very ill. They administered to her and again Sarah saw the evil spirit leave her body, this time he went out thru the door. From this time on Grandfather improved and was soon well.
Sarah's life was full life as pioneers knew it. She left, at the age of 17, a comfortable home, a beautiful country and settled in sage brush, hardships, log and dobbe houses, yet the Gospel meant so much to her she was never known to complain. She lived long enough, as did all the wives of Lorin Farr, to have a beautiful home across, from the tabernacle square. When asked if her trials and hardships had been worthwhile, she would say every moment has had its joys and speak of her many blessings, of the beautiful mountains of Zion and of the privilege to wed one of Gods choicest souls and also to say I have lived to see peace and prosperity come to all, of us. What more can' one ask of our Heavenly Father.
She was the first of the wives to die which brought to Lorin his first great sorrow. She died with a blessing on her lips for her husband, all the families, and her children. The passing of her life was a welcome death, as she had lingered long with an incurable ailment. She was surroun~1ed by most the families and her own children. A lovable 'and faithful soul had returned to her maker and a beautiful reward. She died February 27, 1892. The funeral was held at the home.
CENSUS: Age 38.
Pioneers and Prominent Men of Utah, p.733
BALLANTYNE, RICHARD (son of David Ballantyne, born 1748 near Roxburgh, Scotland, and died Dec. 12, 1831, and Ann Bannerman, born 1789 at Dundee, Scotland; married Oct. 28, 1808). Born Aug. 26, 1817, at Earlston, Berwick, Scotland. Came to Utah Sept. 20, 1848, Brigham Young company.
Married Huldah Meriah Clark Feb. 18, 1847 (daughter of Gardner Clark and Delecta Farrer who were married 1813 at Geneseo, N. Y.; the former died 1847 at Winter Quarters, Iowa, and the latter came to Utah 1848). She was born Oct. 26, 1823, and came to Utah with husband. Their children: Richard Alando b. June 1, 1848, m. Mary Ann Stewart Dec. 27, 1875; Delecta Annie Jane b. Nov. 22, 1849, m. Louis F. Moench Feb. 15, 1874; David Henry b. Nov. 16, 1851, d. Aug. 31, 1863; Meriah Cedenia b. June 25, 1856, m. Austin C. Brown Feb. 2, 1874; John Taylor b. Dec. 28, 1857, m. Mahala E. Wilson March 18, 1885; Annie b. July 15, 1860, m. Louis F. Moench; Roseltha b. March 10, 1862, m. Jesse G. Stratford Nov. 23, 1882; Isabella b. Aug. 3, 1864, m. Louis Alvin West Nov. 23, 1882; Joseph b. Feb. 20, 1868, m. Rosannah A. Brown. Family homes Salt Lake City, Nephi, Ogden and Eden, Utah.
Married Mary Pearce Nov. 27, 1855, Salt Lake City, Utah (daughter of Edward Pearce and Elizabeth Bennett), who was born Oct. 1, 1828, at Ratcliffe, London, Eng., and came to Utah Sept. 25, 1855, with her husband's company. Their children: Zachariah b. Oct. 31, 1856, m. Martha Ferrin; Mary Elizabeth b. Sept. 7, 1858, m. Willard Farr; Jane Susannah b. Feb. 10, 1861, m. Edward H. Anderson; James Edward b. Nov. 1, 1863, m. Sarah H. Critchlow; Eliza Jane b. June 8, 1866, m. Henry J. Garner; Heber Charles b. Feb. 28, 1867, m. Ada Belnap. Family resided at Salt Lake City, Nephi and Ogden, Utah.
Married Caroline Albertine Sanderson Nov. 7, 1856, at Salt Lake City (daughter of Kanute Alexanderson and Ingebor Christina Larsen), who was born Sept. 19, 1837, at Roken, Norway. Their children: Thomas Henry b. Dec. 12, 1858, m. Martha Carstensen Sept. 6, 1883; Caroline Josephine b. Jan. 30. 1861, m.Marcus Farr; Matilda b. Dec. 30, 1862, d. Sept. 4, 1882; Catherine Mena b. Dec. 29, 1864, d. Nov. 18, 1866; Jedediah b. Nov. 18, 1867, m. Nettie Wilson; Brigham b. Feb. 18, 1871; Laura Elizabeth b. June 23, 1874. Family resided at Salt Lake City, Nephi, Ogden and Eden.
Missionary to Hindoostan, India, 1852, laboring in Calcutta and Madras, and publishing a paper there. Brought a company of immigrants to Utah Sept. 25, 1855. Pioneer to the Salmon river 1857 and returning moved to Nephi, 1857, and to Ogden 1860; located the town of Eden 1866, and there served as bishop until 1871. High councilor 37 years and superintendent Sunday schools of Weber stake. Organized the first Sunday school in the dominant church December, 1849, and therefore is known as "father of the Sunday schools." County commissioner of Weber county 12 years; alderman of Ogden several terms; school trustee. Publisher and editor of "Ogden Junction" 1877. Merchant and farmer.
LDS Biographical Encyclopedia, Andrew Jenson, Vol. 1, p.703 Ballantyne, Richard, founder of the great Sunday School system of the Latter-day Saints, was born in Whitridgebog, Roxburgshire, Scotland, Aug. 26, 1817, son of David Ballantyne and Ann Bannerman. Both his parents were born in Scotland, his father in Merton or Earlston, in 1743, and his mother, in the Highlands, in 1784. His father was first married to Cecelia Wallace, who died leaving three children, William, Henry and Margaret, all of whom died in Scotland. When sixty years of age he married his second wife who was then nineteen years of age. Her children's names and the dates of their birth are as follows: Ann, born Aug. 7, 1809; died Feb. 10, 1819. Peter, born June 15, 1811; died in Ogden, Sept. 12, 1893. Jane, born April 11, 1813, died in Salt Lake City Dec. 26, 1900. Robert, born Dec. 9, 1815; died in infancy. Richard, born Aug. 26, 1817; died in Ogden, Nov. 8, 1898. Annie, born Sept. 2. 1819. James, born August, 1821; died in 1833; buried in Earlston cemetery. Richard's father, David Ballantyne, a large, handsome man, six feet tall and weighing over 200 pounds, died in 1829, in Springhall, near Kelso, Roxburgshire, Scotland, and was buried in Ednam churchyard, without hearing the gospel; but he was a good, devout and faithful follower of Christ, and a lover of his divine truth and mission. His mother and all her family joined the Church, becoming devout believers in the doctrines of Christ as restored through the Prophet Joseph Smith. After gathering to Nauvoo, Ill., with her family in 1843, she continued a faithful member of the Church, cheerfully bearing all the severe trials and privations of the expulsion the travels in the wilderness, and the settling of a new country in the Salt Lake valley, finally passing away from the troubles of this life in peace, in October, 1871. She was buried in the Salt Lake City cemetery, in the lot of President John Taylor, who had married her daughters Jane and Annie. Richard Ballantyne, who was early taught to be moral and religious, was baptized by sprinkling when an infant, into the "Relief Presbyterian Church," being later taught in its doctrines. When twenty-one years of age he became an elder, and later a ruling elder whose duties consisted cf visiting among the members with the priest, and looking after the finances of the church, in which he was greatly blessed. It was while still a young man that he began his labors as a Sunday school teacher, which work he [p.704] continued to his dying day. After due investigation, he was baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints by Elder Henry McCune, president of the branch in Edinburgh, in the waters of Leith, on a beautiful moonlight night, in December, 1842. "All nature seemed to be at peace," he writes; "to look at the broad expanse of waters, and to contemplate the mysteries of the unfathomed deep, might well suggest the mysteries of the unknown future that now lay before me; and what if a picture thereof had been unfolded to me! What would I have seen?" What, indeed, but persecution at home; pilgrimage to a foreign land; tempestuous seas; Nauvoo, with its sore trials and martyred Prophet and Patriarch; the pioneer journey over the deserts to the Rocky Mountains, surrounded by wild beasts and savages, in the midst of sickness, hunger and death; the new and barren home where there was supreme war with the elements and crickets for a scant livelihood; himself, moved upon by the spirit of God to build a house, without money or other help, in which to teach the children the gospel of Jesus Christ, and establish the Sunday Schools which, under the fostering hand of God's providence, were to grow in his lifetime to be a mighty aid in God's "marvelous work and a wonder;" travels over unknown seas to proclaim the gospel to the heathen, until, without purse or scrip, he should girdle the earth in his mission of love; the peculiar days of the "Reformation" in his desert home; the armies of the nation unwittingly sent to Utah with a view to accomplish what other trials and sufferings had failed to achieve; again the abandonment of home in the "Move;" the return in peace and the marvelous growth of his chosen people until the silence of the mountain valleys is broken by the voice of thrift and industry; himself standing as the husband of three wives, and father of twenty-two children, and over one hundred grandchildren, with sons-in-law, and daughters-in-law; the "raid" and legal persecution of 1882-90, with its fearful apprehensions, imprisonments and fines; the light and prosperity of the decade closing the nineteenth century, darkened to him by financial failure; the end of his days, marked by the peace of a life well spent; and the joy of beholding a united and honored family, and having a mind full of faith and hope and trust in God, which could in the end exclaim: "I know that my Redeemer lives." Having at length reviewed most of these incidents, he writes: "The foregoing, to show how wise it is in God to keep the future mostly hidden from our view!" As to the employments of his life up to this time: When seven years of age, he herded his mother's cows on the public roads: at ten he tended garden, walks, and the lawn of a wealthy gentleman, working also on the farm; from twelve to fourteen, he worked exclusively on the farm. His education was obtained during the time from nine to fourteen that he occasionally attended school, mostly in the winter months. At fourteen he was apprenticed as a baker, to a Mr. Gray, serving three years. When he was sixteen, he was made foreman of the business; he also served one year as baker's foreman in Kelso, under a Mr. Riddle. His former master, Gray, dying, he purchased his business for $25 and became his own master, for five years conducting his business in Earlston; quitting to remove to Nauvoo when he quit baking forever, for he never liked it. Leaving his native country in 1843, with his mother, two sisters and a brother, he came by way of New Orleans, to Nauvoo, Ill. Here he became the manager and bookkeeper of the Coach and Carriage Association, where many of the wagons were built which aided the first emigrants to cross the plains to Utah. In 1846, he settled the affairs of John Taylor's printing establishment, hired a flouring mill with Peter Slater, 36 miles east of Nauvoo, and he also engaged in farming on the east bank of the Missouri river. During the troubles in Nauvoo, he with others, was in the hands of the mob for over two weeks, suffering greatly from exposure and hardship. In 1846 he went with the scattered remnants of Nauvoo to Winter Quarters, where he remained about eighteen months, until May 18, 1848, at which date he started for the Valley, crossing the plains in Pres. Brigham Young's company, which arrived in Salt Lake City in September. In the year previous, he married Huldah Meriah Clark, and their first son, Richard, was born while crossing the plains. Arriving at the "Old Fort," he again went to farming, on [p.705] Mill creek. He lost his crop for three years in succession, and finally obtained five acres on Canyon creek. Here a terrific hail storm destroyed his crop. In 1846, he was ordained a Seventy by Pres. Joseph Young, and shortly thereafter a High Priest by Apostle John Taylor, which latter office in the Church he held and honored to the time of his death.
He labored with constancy in the Priesthood, considering all his duties a pleasure, but his Sabbath school labors were his chief delight. Upon arriving in the Valley, he immediately began to consider how the moral and spiritual welfare of the children might be advanced; and, having obtained a little home, he asked his Bishop for permission to establish a Sunday school. Permission was granted, but there was no prospect for obtaining a house to meet in for months to come. Under this predicament, he resolved to build an addition to his home, and there begin the work. In the summer of 1849 he hauled rock from the Cottonwood quarries and laid the foundation of red sand stone, and also made the adobes, hauled logs to the saw mill for a share of the lumber, exchanged work with a carpenter who made the doors and windows, and so the first Sunday school house was built, and the first school, numbering some fifty students, was held in it on the second Sunday in December, 1849. Later it was held in the Fourteenth Ward meeting house. I asked him at one time, why he was so desirous of organizing a Sunday school. He replied in writing: "I was early called to this work by the voice of the spirit, and I have felt many times that I have been ordained to this work before I was born, for even before I joined the Church, I was moved upon to work for the young. Surely no more joyful nor profitable labor can be performed by an Elder. There is growth in the young. The seed sown in their hearts is more likely to bring forth fruit than when sown in the hearts of those who are more advanced in years. Furthermore, I had passed through much trouble, had been sorely tried by friends and foes, and in it all the gospel had proved such a solace to me that I was very desirous that all the children of the Saints should learn to prize it as I valued it. And more, I saw that the children, from the very nature and circumstances of the people, were being neglected, and I wanted to gather them into the school where they could learn not to read and write, but the goodness of God, and the true gospel of salvation given by Jesus Christ." In this way he was engaged temporally and spiritually, when in the fall of 1852, he was called to go on a mission to Hindoostan, India. After a long and perilous voyage, he arrived, with twelve other Elders, in Calcutta, July 24, 1853. In St. Thomas Mount, near Madras, he helped to organize a branch, Aug. 3, 1853, with three members, he having been appointed to labor in that vicinity, with Elders Robert Owen and Robert Skelton. He also published several issues of the "Millennial Star and Monthly Visitor," in which many of his writings on the gospel are set forth. Sailing for England, via Cape of Good Hope, July 25, 1854, he arrived in London, Dec. 6, 1854, and then made his way, in charge of a company of Saints, to St. Louis, Mo., via New Orleans. In the spring of 1855 he was placed in charge of a company of emigrants numbering about five hundred, with fifty wagons, all of whom arrived in Salt Lake City in first class condition, Sept. 25, 1855. Thus, in so early a day, he had encompassed the earth on his mission. He was met by Pres. George A. Smith, who remarked: "You have accomplished a journey around the world without purse or scrip, and brought in your company with a band of music and flags flying." Immediately upon his arrival, Pres. Young appointed him to a home mission to preach to the Saints in the well-remembered "reformation." In this he devoted his time till May, 1857. He was married to Mary Pearce, Nov. 27, 1855, and about two years later to Caroline Sanderson. Taking a fencing contract on the Jordan, after his release, he earned a team with which, making several trips, he moved his family to Nephi, prior to the coming of Johnston's army. Here he remained farming for two years, raising 400 bushels of wheat each season, returning to Salt Lake City in the fall of 1859. In 1860, having been offered a $3,000 stock of merchandise, he removed to Ogden, becoming one of the first business men of that city, where he opened a store and prospered exceedingly. Reasons of a religious nature induced him to quit business and go to farming: Brigham Young had [p.706] publicly said that "unless the Elders of the Church quit their merchandising, they will all go to hell." He thought so much of his religion, and believed in the word of President Young (although the latter had privately told him to do as his judgment dictated) to such an extent that he immediately abandoned his business pursuit. Said he: "I did not want to go to hell, and I had previously noticed that nearly every 'Mormon' merchant I had known had apostatized." He then purchased a farm in Eden, Ogden valley, where he raised some large crops, and had six successively destroyed by grasshoppers.
He assisted in building the Union Pacific railway in 1868, and also the Central Pacific. He became the manager, later, of a combination of three cooperative stores, on call from Pres. Franklin D. Richards, which he afterwards purchased and closed out in 1871. For the next six years he returned to farming, until, in May, 1877, he sold his farm and purchased the "Ogden Junction," established in 1870, successfully publishing the paper for eighteen months, to November, 1878, when he sold out. Then he went to railroading, helping to build the Oregon Short Line. Returning in 1881, he entered 480 acres of land under the Davis and Weber Counties Canal, and, with others, began and completed the stupendous task of building that waterway. In 1889 he sold his interests for $16,000 and purchased the lumber business of Bernard White. The "boom" in Ogden followed; he was induced to dabble in real estate, which, with reverses in business, brought about by the panic of 1893, completely ruined him financially, and doubtless hastened his death, which took place in Ogden, on Nov. 8, 1898. Elder Ballantyne was fourteen years a member of the Weber county court, and several times an alderman in Ogden city, with an unimpeachable record for honesty and conscientious work. In 1872 he was chosen superintendent of Sabbath schools for Weber Stake, which position he held and magnified until death. Prior to this, he was a zealous worker in the schools, being the founder of the Sunday school idea in Weber, as well as he had been in Salt Lake City. From him and from his labor the work gradually extended to the whole Church. He helped to erect the Central and other schoolhouses, being one of the trustees, and was ever an advocate of the system of schools which would place a good common school education within easy reach of the people. He was the senior member of the High Council at his death, having been a member thereof for over seventeen years. Here he was known as a firm defender of the right, and a lover of fair play and justice. Aug. 26, 1897, he was honored by a public celebration of his natal day, he being then eighty years old. Thousands of children, with their teachers from all parts of the county, marched in procession through the streets of Ogden, with music and banners, in his honor; at Lester Park, where the festivities were continued, he was literally covered with a wilderness of flowers, contributed by the little ones from every settlement and Ward in the county. The Sunday schools, upon request of General Superintendent George Q. Cannon, contributed towards assisting him to build a small home in which the last three months of his life were spent in quiet peace, marred only by the weakness of his body. He was conscious to the last, and full of ideas and plans for the progress and welfare of the schools. His work in this line kept him young in spirit, his interests being entwined about the hosts of Sunday School children whom he dearly loved. Elder Ballantyne was, in his early days, very strict and sometimes austere; close in business, but strictly honest. In later years, he was full of sympathy and affection. He was a strong-minded man, but ever moved by justice to the oppressed, and mercy to the sinner and the weak. He was one of the strong characters common to the pioneers and the early members of the "Mormon" Church to whose cause his whole soul was devoted.
He was a thorough Christian, of whom it is truly said: "He sought first the kingdom of God and his righteousness." His labors and devotion to Zion, and his noble life, will shed sunshine upon many generations yet to be. Edward H. Anderson.
Pioneers and Prominent Men of Utah, p.733
Married Caroline Albertine Sanderson Nov. 7, 1856, at Salt Lake City (daughter of Kanute Alexanderson and Ingebor Christina Larsen), who was born Sept. 19, 1837, at Roken, Norway.
HISTORY OF CAROLINE ALBERTINE SANDERSON BALLANTYNE
UTAH PIONEER OF 1855
Submitted. by her Niece
DELETA B. BURTON
PREFACE
In the far-off country of the frozen north and the mid-night sun with its rugged cliffs and treacherous seas, the tiny Caroline first saw the light of day. She was born of goodly and god-fearing parents - a true daughter of Israel. She recognized and accepted the gospel at the age of fifteen years and lived it all her life. Her environment and heritage fitted her for the trials and vicissitudes of pioneer life which she accepted uncomplainingly, cheerfully, and courageously.
I knew her quite well since my school was near her home and I frequently called in to visit with her and Aunt Laura. Regardless of the work that might be pressing she never appeared rushed, but gave me a cheerful and happy welcome, and I always enjoyed my visit there.
Aunt Caroline was an excellent cook, a good manager and her rare sense of humor fitted her as a good help-mate for Grandfather when he took over contracts to build the various railroad lines: first, (in 1868) a stretch at the western part of Weber Valley, then a larger project west of Ogden, and later on one at Willard in Box Elder County, and last, a stretch up into Idaho near the Bannock Indian Reservation. To all of these places she willingly went with him, and the men enjoyed her food.
The boys and girls of Grandfather's other wives loved her dearly and spent much time in her home. My father, Richard Alando, told me he loved her almost like his own mother and he was very devoted to her.
This history is necessarily in three parts to make it complete.
First: Historical data and family life to its close is taken from the history of her daughter Caroline Josephine Farr.
Second: The Autobiography of Aunt Caroline written for the Daughters of the Utah Pioneers, dealing with her conversion to the church, her testimony, and early life in Utah.
Third: Interesting, intimate recollections are given by her grand daughter, Josephine Farr Lundwall.
Delecta Ballantyne Burton
HISTORY OF CAROLINE ALBERTINE SANDERSON BALLANTYNE
Caroline Albertine Sanderson was born 19 September 1837 at Roken, Amt, Norway. She was the daughter of Knud Alexanderson and Ingebor Christine Larson. Knud Alexanderson was the son of Alexander Knudson and both were sailors and did freighting on the North Sea between Norway and England, Germany, Greenland, etc. When Knud Alexanderson's mother, Christine Olson, died he was but a child. When his father, Alexander Knudson, remarried the new mother was not very good to him so he lived most of his life on the ship with his father. He naturally grew up a sailor and when he became a man he owned his own ship or sloop and followed that occupation.
Caroline's maternal grandmother, Bertha Jacobson, was a woman of medium height, or perhaps under, fleshy, had light blue eyes and white or golden hair. She was the first of Caroline's people (and one of the first in Norway) to receive the gospel of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. She lived with her daughter, Ingebor Christine Larson, who had a dressmaking and millinery business at her home. They were very industrious and Caroline was early taught to work although they were in comfortable circumstances. Ingebor would paint the house inside and out, also the barn. All the weaving was done at home, Caroline assisting in the spooling and quilling. They also did all kinds of fancy work such as bead and hair work, and needle work. They prepared the yarn and made their own shawls, embroidering them in the natural colors of tulips, roses, etc. , and finishing them in fringe. The bead-work consisted of collars, necklaces, chains, samplers and little opera bags woven on small looms made for them. Work was a habit with them.
Caroline tells the following in her own words: "On September 15, 1852, at Onson Norway, the Servants of the Lord brought the Everlasting Gospel to us and they were indeed tidings of great joy for the Lord opened our eyes and we understood the light of truth to such an extent that never before in my life had I experienced such joy. My Grandmother, Bertha Larson, and I, were baptized on the 27th of September, 1852, and my mother not till Spring (because her health was very bad). The power of God was bestowed upon us through baptism to such an extent that all signs of sleep left us and we could do nothing but sing songs of Glory to the Most High.
"On the 30th, three days later, I was to have been confirmed in the Lutheran Church, but instead I went to the priest and told him I had joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. This so angered him that he had the elders arrested and put in prison where they remained all winter. (They would have starved had it not been that the Elders converted the night watchman, named Monson, who carried food to them which had been prepared in the Sanderson home and carried by Caroline and hidden in the brush at night where he could find it.) What seemed so strange to us was that our friends could not understand as we did and immediately proceeded to persecute us most cruelly, but the persecution only strengthened our faith and we rejoiced to even greater extent.
"When my father heard what we had done he set a guard to watch our house and one night a mob of about two hundred men gathered outside and demanded entrance, to see if the Mormon elders were secreted there, for my father was a sea captain and was away a great deal. I had been to a meeting and I was compelled to stay outside until four o clock in the morning, when they grew tired and left the place. We thanked our Heavenly Father that they had no power to harm us. Many wonderful manifestations were given us to strengthen our faith and bouy us up for the trials that came after. I remember so well my mother coming down stairs one morning, very sick, which was not uncommon for her, for she had very poor health, and Brother Olson, one of the missionaries, laid his hands on her head and said: In the Name of the Lord thou shall be healed and she was restored instantly, after which she enjoyed good health for a number of years. This was our first great testimony of the Gospel.
"On November 21, 1854, we left our native land and my dear father, which was one of the greatest trials we ever had to bear, still we were very happy to be on our way to Zion. During our voyage on the North Sea there came up a terrible storm, it being so severe it was impossible to go on and we had to turn back to land three times and still made no progress past a certain place in mid-ocean; finally the sea captain of our company, numbering four hundred souls, called us together and said to us, we are all fasting and let us unite in prayer. He offered a very humble prayer and immediately the wind was turned. Now we were out of coal and had to depend entirely on the sails but the Lord answered our prayers and we steered straight to Hull, England. Had our prayers not been answered we would have missed the ship bound for America. This was another great manifestation of the goodness of the Lord. We went by rail to Liverpool where we set sail for America. We had a safe voyage and landed at New Orleans, February 18, 1855.
"We had to remain at Fort Leavenworth until June. While there the cholera was raging in our camp, four or five dying every day. Apostle Erastus Snow rebuked the destroyer and said from that time all would be healed and it was fulfilled to the letter.
"The 14th of June, 1855, we started to cross the plains. I had to walk almost all the way. Nothing of importance happened other than it was a very tiresome journey. We arrived in Salt Lake City, September 7, 1855, almost a year after we left our home in Norway. It was surely a place of destitution and poverty, the crickets having destroyed all the crops.
"Mother, Grandmother and I were alone with no protector, and I was compelled to work for our support, so I did weave, sew, etc., for one dollar a week. Flour was fourteen dollars per one hundred pounds, and we had to ration ourselves to one biscuit a meal for we could not get used to the grass, weeds, etc. I will never forget one day, I had been working unusually hard and came home tired and hungry. I ate my biscuit ravenously and it made me so sick I threw it up. I cried for it left me hungrier than before I had eaten. My grandmother said she was not feeling like eating that day and gave me a part of hers.
"It looked as if we would starve and President Brigham Young told us to use roots, weeds, thistles, etc., and that they would be blessed until the grain came, after which they would be cursed and a poison. This prophesy was verified for some that had learned to like them continued using them and became very sick nigh unto death. The Fall of 1856 Mother and I gleaned and earned twenty-five bushels of wheat which made us very comfortable for a year.
"The Lord has been very merciful to me, more than I deserve in giving me the health and strength that I have always had. He strengthened the back for the burden. I can truly testify to that for I have gone through a great deal in this world and had I inherited my mother's weakness my burden would have been more than I could bear.
"On the 6th of March, 1857, I was married to Richard Ballantyne, and I felt that the step I had taken was approved of the Lord. He made me a very good husband and a splendid father to my children.
"About a year after I was married, Johnston's army invaded our peaceful quarters and we had to move South. This was another great trial for the Saints had been driven so much and we did not know whether we would ever return and if we did we expected our property would be destroyed. We lived at Nephi two years and returned to find our homes just as we had left them. We then lived in the fourteenth Ward in Salt Lake City.
"In 1865 we moved to Eden, Utah, where my husband was President of that branch. For seven successive years the grasshoppers destroyed our crops; then came sea gulls that killed them so that they lay in heaps in the ditches and hollows. This reduced us to poverty again and we were again rationed for two years. It seemed that the Lord desired to keep us humble so that we could draw nearer to Him."
Caroline was the mother of seven children: Thomas Henry, Caroline Josephine, Bertha Matilda, Catherine Mena, Jedediah, Brigham, Laura Elizabeth.
Thomas Henry was the first L. D. S. Marshall to be appointed in Utah. All had good voices. Matilda was a fine lyric soprano and did much public singing. She died at the age of nineteen after a short illness. All the families of Richard Ballantyne used to meet at the home of the first wife to enjoy a home evening together. They had scriptural readings, sang songs, played games, and had candy pulls.
All the family grew to maturity except Catherine Mena who died at Eden at the age of 11 months. Quoting from Mena s sister Caroline Josephine:
"It was here that my sweet little blue-eyed sister Catherine Mena died at about eleven months of age. I saw my mother putting away her little clothes, shoes, etc., and the silent, sad tears falling while she did it."
Upon returning to Ogden, the Eden farm was traded to Orson Eggleston and his brother for Caroline's home on the corner of 25th Street and Jefferson Avenue, and for one for his wife Mary on Washington Avenue. While in this home all of Caroline's children were married. Here, also, she did much tailoring and dress-making for people. Later she moved to 23rd Street and Madison Avenue in a home bought for her by her youngest son, Brigham, who was a contractor in Brigham City. When Brigham was accidently killed, he left her insurance which provided for her comfort in her declining years and she gave up her sewing business.
Some time later she fell and broke her hip and she was unable to walk again, so her daughter, Josephine, took her to her home where she was tenderly cared for the last four years of her life. She still maintained her cheerful and happy disposition and kept her hands busy doing her beautiful embroidery work. Her eyes never failed her and she did much reading though she lived to be 89 years of age. She died 18 October 1926.
RECOLLECTIONS OF CAROLINE ALBERTINE SANDERSON BALLANTYNE
GIVEN BY HER. GRAND DAUGHTER
JOSEPHINE FARR LUNDWALL
I enjoyed going to my grandmother's home. We lived on Canyon Road in Ogden, Utah, and she lived on the corner of 25th Street and Jefferson Avenue. Even though it was two or three miles I would gladly walk that distance to visit her and to help her in any way; I loved so much to be with her and Aunt Laura Elizabeth who worked together dress-making. For many years she did this and was always busy, so my help was very acceptable. I was proud and happy to do this at any time, taking advantage of every opportunity during the summer or vacation time, or after school to go there to wash dishes, sweep and scrub floors, dust and make beds, pick up bits of sewing, tidy the house, or do anything to help, just to be in their home. She was such good company, so cheerful, jovial, and good-natured regardless of her weariness. It was my delight to help them sew, baste, or do hemming of which I did yards and yards, and was happy about it.
I loved to go there at night to sleep with her which I often did when going to parties or dances. She liked to have me sleep with her because I was quiet. I will always remember how she used to wait up for Aunt Laura and me, and while we were eating she would say in her own sweet way, "Now tell me what you have been doing," or "Tell me of the fun, what you did and what was said." As we recounted the events of the evening she would laugh with us and say that was the way she had her good times.
Sometimes during our work Aunt Laura would get out the cards and say, "Mother, tell us our fortunes." She would lay aside her work and tell us the funniest things. We all laughed together and resumed our work again. Other times when she was especially weary she would say, "I would not make a very good witch tonight." Sometimes when she was tired she would lie down or lean back in her chair for fifteen minutes to take "forty winks", she would say.
As far back as I can remember she carried on a dress-making business in her home and was always very busy. They always had more than they could do. In addition, she kept boarders for many years. She also mothered a twelve-year old girl, Mae Jensen, who lived with her until she married and had a home of her own.
Grandmother was an excellent cook and was noted for her chicken dumplings and soups of many kinds, salt-rising and whole wheat bread, and pickles. Her bread and pickles were so delicious that many of her friends depended on her to supply them. She gave them the recipes, but they insisted they didn t taste the same as when she made them, which she did for many years, but finally had to give it up. To me they were the most delicious I ever ate. When she made soup she often invited me to eat for she knew how well I liked to eat with them. I was not the only one to receive an occasional special invitation. She was too busy to entertain, but never too busy to share.
Grandmother truly loved her neighbors as herself. She did home-nursing, not only for her own family, but also helped her neighbors and their new babies. Many times I was privileged to carry some of her soups, stews, and other good things to those who were sick. I recall taking Grandmother's soups to Grandfather when he was not well. He was so fond of them, and Aunt Mary, smiling, met me at the door because she enjoyed them as much as did Grandfather. Once I asked her how she made food taste so good and I will always remember her reply, "I don t know, honey, I just put it on and let it smile all day."
She was First Counselor in the Primary Association of the 4th Ward, Ogden City, but acted as President most of the time on account of the illness of Sister Forsham, she was made president and held that position a number of years. She also taught in the Sunday School and did some temple work.
Ogden,Utah.August 16,1880.
A blessing given by William J. Smith Sen., Patriarch, upon the head of Caroline Albertine Sandersen Ballantyne, daughter of Kanute Alex Sandersen and Ingebor C. Larsen, born in Norway, Sept.19,1837.
Sister Caroline: I lay my hands upon thy head in the name of Jesus Christ, thy redeemer,to bless you according to the Patriarchal order and to seal the blessings of the everlasting gospel upon thy head, that thou mayst live to receive a fullness of those blessings, for the Lord loves thee because of the integrity of thy heart, for thou art virtous and pure before Him,and thou shalt see God thy Saviour and meet his smiles and approbation for thy name is written in heaven the Lamb s book of Life never to be blotted out.
I bless and seal upon thy head the second Comforter, the blessings of the celestial kingdom thou art fully entitled to these blessings and no one shall take the crown that is in reserve for thee by thy Heavenly Father. There is no blessing but what the Lord will bestow upon thee both in heaven and upon the earth in time and through all eternity. Thou art an elect lady, thy spirit is as pure as an angel ofl God. Thou shalt commune with the heavens, and the blessings of the heavens shall flow unto thee. I bless you when you lie down and when you rise up,when you go out and when you come in and the Lordl will bless the labor of thy hands and all thou puttest thy hands to do shall he prospered of the Lord peace and health shall be in thy habitation; thy children shall rise up and call thee blessed of the Lord; they shall grow up around thee like plants of renown, and the power of the priesthood shall rest upon thee, and your name shall be honorable among the sons and daughters of Zion; as a mother I bless you; you have honored your calling and thou art numbered among the mothers in Israel and I seal upon your head the spirit and power of your high and holy calling that it may rest upon you by day and by night. You shall receive your full blessing in the temple of the Lord and stand as a saviour to thy progenitors. Thy store house shall be filled with plenty Thou shalt have the fruit of the earth and the fat thereof ,and thou shalt never want a faithful
friend or the Lord is thy friend and he will withhold no good from thee till thy heart is satisfied, or I bless and seal upon thy head every desire of thy heart. I seal you up unto eternal life with your inheritance with your companion with a holy, resurrection, with your full redemption, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
BLESSING: Ogden, Utah. August 16,1880.
A blessing given by William J. Smith Sen. ,Patriarch, upon the head of Caroline Albertine Sandersen Ballantyne, daughter of Kanute Alex Sandersen and Ingebor C. Larsen, born in Norway, Sept.19,1837.
Sister Caroline:-I lay my hands upon thy head in the name of Jesus Christ, thy redeemer, to bless you according to the Patriarchal order and to seal the blessings of the everlasting gospel upon thy head, that thou mayst live to receive a fullness of those blessings, for the Lord loves thee because of the integrity of thy heart, for thou art virtuous and pure before Him, and thou shalt see God thy Savior and meet his smiles and approbation or thy name is written in heaven the Lamb s book of Life never to be blotted out.
I bless and seal upon thy head the second Comforter, the blessings of the celestial kingdom thou art fully entitled to these blessings and no one shall take the crown that is in reserve for thee by thy Heavenly Father. There is no blessing but what the Lord will bestow upon thee both in heaven and upon the earth in time and through all eternity. Thou art an elect lady, thy spirit is as pure as an angel of God. Thou shalt commune with the heaven,and the blessings of the heavens shall flow unto thee. I bless you when you lie down and when you rise up, when you go out and when you come in; and the Lord will bless the labor of thy hands and all thou puttest thy hands to do shall he prospered of the Lord peace and health shall be in thy habitation; thy children shall rise up and call thee blessed of the Lord; they shall grow up around thee like plants of renown, and the power of the priesthood shall rest upon thee, and your name shall be honorable among the sons and daughters of Zion; as a mother I bless you; you have honored your calling and thou art numbered among the mothers in Israel; and I seal upon your head the spirit and power of your high and holy calling that it may rest upon you by day and by night. You shall receive your full blessing in the temple of the Lord and stand as a savior to thy progenitors. Thy Store house shall be filled with plenty Thou shalt have the fruit of the earth and the fat thereof ,and thou shalt never want a faithful
friend, for the Lord is thy friend and he will withhold no good from thee till thy heart is satisfied, for I bless and seal upon thy head every desire of thy heart.I seal you up unto eternal life with your inheritance with your companion with a holy, resurrection, with your full redemption, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.