Relative Bliss
Genealogy of Julie Ann Bliss Hammons
Relative BlissGenealogy of Julie Ann Bliss Hammons
|
|
            |
Thomas Callister
|
 |
|
||
|
Thomas Callister History 1821 to 1880 Compiled by William F. Atkin May 2005 1 HISTORY OF THOMAS CALLISTER (1821-1880)1 [Excerpt from the autobiographical writings of Thomas Callister]: Thomas Callister2, son of John and Catherine Callister, was born on the Isle of Man3 8th July 1821. I lived with Father and Mother until I was 14 years old. I had no opportunity of going to school, no school being within several miles of where we lived. But I always had a great anxiety for learning and my Father took a great deal of trouble in teaching me to read and write. When I was in my 13th year my Father sent me to learn the Tailor’s Trade. He and John Quayle entered into an agreement that I should work with him as an apprentice for six years. The last four years he was to find me in clothing, etc., to which I agreed. During these 13 years there is a great many that I should like to mention that took place in the days of my youth on the Green Hills and in the valleys of the Isle of Man, but there are a great many that I have forgot. Besides my chief object is to keep a correct Journal of the things that transpired in my life from the time that I embraced the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I always had a great desire from my youth to have a true knowledge of eternal things on the Plan of Salvation, and often times inquired and thought what the reason was that angels did not visit the earth now as they did anciently. But I must return to the subject. After my father and Mr. Quayle made the foregoing arrangement, I went to work. After I was to work at my trade two years, my mother died. I think in the month of October 1836, and my father died in eight weeks after, which would be December the same year. After my father and mother died, Mr. Quayle and me made a different arrangement about my apprenticeship. He agreed if I work for four years, he would be satisfied. I was glad of the chance and we entered into an agreement to that effect. When the four years expired, I was then free from all agreements or ties as far as my trade was concerned and at liberty to do what I please. I knew if I went to the City to work that the work was different and that I could not do it. I considered the matter and was very anxious to know all about my business. I knew if I stayed in the country, I would not know any more about City work than I did then so I concluded to go. I went to Douglas, the largest town or city on the Isle of Man4 and worked for George Morrison four months. I was somewhat dissatisfied with my situation. The reasons were there: his run of business was very much inferior to others in the city and besides this, he was a very highminded disagreeable man in my opinion. I concluded I would go to see if I could get work in the first shop in the city, which was dept by Hugh Kerruish. He had a large establishment, Tailor-Draper, etc. I went in one evening to see what the prospect was of getting work. I think it was sometime in January 1838. I told him my circumstances that I had been to work in the country 4 years but was not able to finish nice work in the city. He told me in three months he could give me work. The next thing was to get rid of Morrison. But while I stood in Mr. Kerruish’s shop I saw Morrison pass by a gaslight. He saw me very plain and I saw him. He gave a very sour look and passed by. I went back to Morrisons but determining to leave him. This circumstance took place Saturday evening. Monday morning I went to work as usual. But I knew he was put out with me. About 9 o’clock in the morning he came into the workshop where I was. I thought he looked like some savage being. He turned up the white of his eye at me and said, "Thomas, you have been into Kerruish’s, have you?" {"Yes, Sir, I called in to his shop last evening." "If you are going to work for Kerruish I want you to leave." "Sir, I calculate to." He made some other remarks. I made no reply but gathered up my things and in about 10 M. I was ready to start. He then spoke more mild and said, "You had better stay to dinner." "I am now ready to go all but settling with you." So we settled and I started off. And in three months, I was to work in Kerruish’s Shop. He told me to sit down beside his brother and if I wanted to know anything about my work, he could tell me. After I was to work 2 days, he told me he wished me to work on Coats with this brother and he would insure me to be a workman. I cheerfully went to work. This brother was an excellent workman direct from London and foreman of the shop at that time. He took a great deal of pride in instructing me in finishing work. His kindness is long to be remembered by me. After I had been to work with him 9 months he was going to leave his brother and going to setup shop in a town 10 miles distant. By this time I could finish work equal to any man in the shop but yet I felt bad on account of his leaving. After he, Daniel Kerruish, left, his brother became much attached to me. He told me he thought inasmuch as I had been studying at work and paid great attention to my business that if I chose he would intrust me with all the business of the shop in his absence and in all other cases where he could not attend to it, inasmuch as I would become responsible. After a moment’s hesitation, I told him I thought I had not experience sufficient for such an undertaking. His answer was that he would risk it. I told him providing he would instruct and assist me. His reply was that he would, so I had to muster up all the courage that I was in possession of to take the foreman’s place in the shop next Monday morning. I think the number of men to work at that time was eight. Monday morning I had some [illegible] feeling concerning the matter as I entered the sop. The first ten months I worked for Mr. Kerruish I boarded at a boarding house a quarter of a mile distant from my shop, and had not but little time to attend to anything but my work. At the end of the ten months, Mr. Kerruish told me it would be a great advantage to both me and himself if I boarded with him and I found it to be a great advantage to be by my work for rule was in summer time to be to work at six o/clock in the morning, one hour and a half to dinner, half an hour at five o’clock, and work till eight. IN fall and winter at 8 in the morning, one hour at noon, and work till eight in the evening. But after I had the care of the shop I had to be the first in the morning and the last at night. But still being right there I had a good chance to study. Mr. Kerriuish assisted me much in studying Ar [illegible] etc. so that in a little time I could attend to my business without difficulty and everything went on well as far as shop matters was concerned. In the fall of 1840, John Taylor5 came to the Isle of Man to preach what he called Mormonism. And as I was walking along one day I saw a handbill published by John Taylor informing the people that on such an evening he would preach in the Wellington Hall on the faith once delivered to the Saints. I felt very anxious for the evening to come and went to hear Mr. Taylor. He preached on the Gifts and blessing that the Ancient Saints received through faith, and that the same blessings and promises extended unto the later generation on the earth that believed in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and that the Priesthood, and likewise plainly showed that the Priesthood was taken from the earth and that the people had changed the laws and ordinances of the Kingdom of God, etc. He met with a great deal of opposition from the different sects, etc. And I began to search the Bible and likewise believe the Gospel and on the 30th day of March, 1841, I was baptized and confirmed a member of the Church of Jesus Christ. Baptised by Wm Mitchell and confirmed by John Taylor. I son found out that my old friends had become distant and cold. Kerruish wanted me very much to abandon Mormonism, etc. I lived on the Isle of Man, after I had joined the Church, nearly twelve months. But in the meantime making every preparation to move to America, almost forsaken by friends and despised by old acquaintances until I was about to start. When they saw that I was so determined they began to cool off a little and wanted very much I should live on the Isle of Man. The first of January 1842, I began to settle up my business preparations to leave the 4th day of January. I went to see my sisters, Isabelle & Catherine, and bid them farewell. They felt very bad that I was going where they could not see me. They cried much and put their arms round my neck and kissed me. I blessed them in the name of the Lord and told them how the Lord had spoken from heavens and revealed his will to man, etc. and I was going to gather with His people to the Land of Zion, etc. Bid them farewell and started. I then made calculations to leave the Isle of Man the 10th day of January 1842. But I received word on the 9th that I had to be in Liverpool. On the 10th the ship would start. So I packed up and got ready for I already paid my passage to New Orleans and likewise paid for my board. I had yet to go and see my only brother, which was very hard against my going. But I started to see him and told him I was going to start that evening for Liverpool and should like well if he would accompany me to Douglas, a distance of 10 miles. He cried and said he would. He was to meet me at Charles Cowley’s, which he did about sundown. Charles Cowley harnessed his horses and put them on to a cart and I started, accompanied by my brother and many friends. Arrived in Douglas about 9 o’clock in the evening. The steamship "Mona Isle" was to leave for Liverpool at half past ten. I went to see a great many of my old friends in Douglas until it was time to go aboard. I got sadly disappointed by Brother Boston [or Roston] who was going to accompany me to Nauvoo. But when the hour arrived to start, he wife would not go. This disappointment made me feel bad for I depended on him for company for I was young and unacquainted with traveling, for I had never been off the Island. And not I had to undertake such a journey among strangers. But I was fully bent on going whether among strangers or friends. My brother told me just before I started if I would turn back and quit Mormonism he would give me half he was worth. But all the Isle of Man would not have tempted me to turn back on them terms. The time had come and the bell rang ford the steamboat to start. I bid my brother and friends farewell and went aboard. Nothing on earth would have tempted me to leave at that time but the Gospel of Jesus Christ. After the boat had started a great many bid me goodby. Some voices I knew and some I did not. I looked back on my Native Island for the last time then but, owing to the dark night, could see noting but the town lighted up with gaslight. About break of day I could see Liverpool lights and when it came daylight I could see the town of Liverpool, and a harbour full of ships, which was to me quite a sight. When we got into Liverpool, I met Bro. Reed. I was glad to see him for there was not one passenger on board that I knew. We ere not but a little ways of the ship "Tremont" then bound for New Orleans and chartered by the Latter-Day Saints, on which I was going. I took my chest, etc., and put on board ready to start. I went into the town. I got breakfast and went down to the ship. The captain told me they would not start until the 12th. I was glad for I had two sisters living a little ways out of Liverpool that I wanted to see, but that day I spent in visiting at curious sites of Liverpool. Among these were the New Market, the Customs House, etc. Before the Customs House there is the portrait of several Kings that was taken by the Government of England. Cut out of stone, the portrait is in a form chained down—some in one position and some in another. On the 11th day of January I went to see my sister Margret. Had not seen her before for 18 months. Found her well. She had already learned that I was going to America, and my brother sent her a letter telling her that I had joined a sect of people called Mormons and that they would be my ruin and wanted her if possible to stop me going. She asked what these people believed in and I began to preach the Gospel unto her to which she had no objections. My other sister, Jane, had gone to London so I did not see her. My sister Margret made me some handsome presents. In return I gave her a "Voice of Warning" and a Hymn Book. She came with me to Liverpool, and there I parted with my last relative. The next day being the 12th day of January 1842, I went aboard the ship "Tremont" and she left Liverpool dock at half past ten P.M. She was towed out by a steamboat, it being a beautiful calm day. Elder Parley P. Pratt was on board and delivered an oration to the Saints. It was a New York ship and had an American Flag. I recollect him tell that the Starts and Stripes had reference to a Land of Liberty and that they had now left the oppressive Land of England and was now on the way to the Land of Liberty and a land of plenty and would no longer have to give sixpence for a small loaf of bread, etc. When we got out of the harbour the steamship returned back and Elder Pratt and many others returned who accompanied us thus far. It was about 4 o’clock in the afternoon when we parted. It was a beautiful calm evening. It was not all hustle and bustle on board our vessel for each passenger was trying to find out where his berth would be. I do not know the exact number of passengers but in a little while we were all placed and each one having his own station. I will explain a little the manner, or in other words the way; we were situated in our new home. We were steerage passengers and where we stored away our things and slept was a large open space between decks. The berths where we slept on each side of the ship from one end to the other and one above the other. The first was about three feet from the floor and the second about six or eight. I was now totally among strangers, not a face that I would ever had seen before in my life, and left all my folks and not knowing as I would ever see them again in my life, I felt considerably down-hearted and sad but keeping up appearances as well as possible. I and two other men concluded to sleep together and picked out our berth, which was a lower one. The weather being so beautiful we all concluded there was no need of fastening luggage of any kind until next day so we packed our chest, bags, etc. in the midway of the ship. Each one or family had cooking utensils which consisted principally of tin ware, cups, etc. Each passenger went to work and drove nails around his berth and hug up his cups, coffee pots, etc. round his berth. I among the rest prepared a place and hung up mine and so I got everything fixed ready to go to bed. After being in bed about two hours, the wind began to blow and the sea began to roar and about midnight the cry as "All hands on board!" The storm grew worse and worse. It was as much as I could do to keep myself in bed. Our tin ware and luggage rolled first from one end of the ship and then to the other. When it came daylight our room was an awful sight. Almost every person was sick. Everything that was not fastened was mixed together. I go up and went on deck. The sea was very rough and remained so for three days, during which time I could get nothing to each for those that had the management of the provisions was sick and could not attend to it. The fourth day the storm abated some, so that they dealed out some provisions. The sea calmed some and the folks began to show them. After the storm we had quite a good time and I began to get a little acquainted. The seventh day after we started we were out of sight of land and continued to have good weather. In forty-one days we were in sight of land again, and forty-eight from the time we left Liverpool—being forty-one days out of sight of law, during which time a great many things transpired that I shall pass over. We had a very pleasant voyage, saw almost all kinds of fish, and caught some. I worked considerable at my trade while on the sea. Had a room on the Quarterdeck in which I worked, made considerable work for the Captain and Cabin Passengers, and others. The most of the passengers were Saints. We arrived in New Orleans the 6eth day of March, 1842, it being fifty-five days from the time we left Liverpool until we arrived in New Orleans, and fifty-eight since I left the Isle of Man. We tarried in New Orleans 12 days. I went to see some old acquaintances and faired with them first rate until I left there. The company chartered a steamboat to St. Louis and we started from New Orleans the 18th day of March, except some that stayed there. We arrived in St. Louis the 28th of March and next day started for Nauvoo. I had come thus far without any accident. But on the 30th day of March I feel through the hatchway backward and lay there lifeless for half an hour. It was supposed the first one that saw me was Charlotte Isles, a young lady I got acquainted with soon after we left Liverpool. I was taken up and laid on a bed and remained lifeless for about one hour and senseless the greater part of the day. The first think I recollect I was inquiring where I was. I was taken into the cabin and soon got well. A great many told me they never expected to have seen me well again. The first of April in the morning, we got to Warsaw. Mr. Isles and his family stayed there. They did not belong to the Church. About sundown we arrived in Nauvoo, being eighty-four days from the time I left the Isle of Man until I arrived in Nauvoo.6 I went ashore and saw Elder Taylor. I was glad to see him for there was none other that I was acquainted with, as I knew of. He invited me to his house and I was glad of the invitation. Next day I went to see the Temple, the Nauvoo House, and other buildings. Nauvoo far exceed my expectation in buildings, etc. I came back to Elder Taylor’s. The next night inquired of him if he knew anything of Quayle and M. Cowley. He told me they lived in Ramus, distance from Nauvoo 20 miles. I made some inquiry in Nauvoo about getting into work but found no encouragement. I concluded to go to Ramus and see Quayle and Cowley as I had been acquainted with the on the Isle of Man. So I started the third day of April to Ramus. Got there sometime before night. Found Quayle and Cowley farming. They were glad to see me and Quayle wanted I should come to live with him. He told me he thought we could get plenty of work at the Tailor Trade toward the latter part of summer. I partly concluded to stay there, as the prospect for work in Nauvoo I thought was poor. I would, however, have to go back to, according to family stories, Thomas Callister arrived in Nauvoo with 50 cents in his pocket. "..Nauvoo and get my things. I concluded to go by way of Warsaw and see Mr. Isles and family. After staying in Ramus three days I set off for Warsaw—distance 20 miles—a foot and got there sometime before night. Found Mr. Isles. He had rented a room. I stayed with them overnight. His family wanted to go to Nauvoo and join the Church, to which he would not consent but wanted to go back down the River, thinking he would be better. I stayed there one day and went up to Nauvoo. Stayed there one night and went back to Ramus and went to work with Brother Quayle upon his farm for two months. Then once in awhile I would get a little to do at my trade. I felt very lonesome the greater part of the time having little or not acquaintance there. After sometime I go acquainted with Brother Tomkins and family that came there sometime after I did. They were from Wales. Time rolled along without anything very interesting happening. I soon wrote a letter to Brother Charles Cowley. It was dated April 20, 1842. There had been, previous to this time, some letters sent to the Isle of Man by those who had become disaffected, trying to put down the Doctrine of Gathering, etc. I wrote a considerable of a lengthy letter, as I was well known among the Saints and others, bearing my testimony to the work that we had embraced. I likewise wrote several other letters to the Isle of Man in April—to my brother and others. I went to Nauvoo several times through the summer and saw and heard Joseph and Hiram preach and wished many times I lived there. In August 1842, I was ordained an Elder under the hands of Brigham Young and Orson Hyde in Ramus and a call was made for the Elders to go out and preach. I concluded to go in company with Isaac Clark but did not get started until February 16, 1843. We stared a foot, snow about one foot deep, traveled that day 15 miles—very tired, stayed with Brother Dungan. He lived in a small town, do not recollect the name. Next evening we had an appointment to a Mr. Green’s in that neighborhood. We went there accompanied by Bro. Dungan and family. The house was crowded with people to hear us preach. Bro. Clark opened the meeting and I for the first time in my life stood up to preach to the people. After traveling about two months from place to place, preaching every opportunity, for the people was very much prejudiced against our people, we started for home having done considerable good. Excerpt from a history of Thomas Callister written by his son, Thomas C. Callister. This excerpt begins with the period following Thomas Callister’s return to Ramus – renamed Macedonia – upon the completion of his first mission in 1843 He [Thomas Callister] began work again for Brother Quayle, but later in the summer was invited to go and live with Benjamin F. Johnson and his family, from who he rented a shop where he began work at his trade, and built up a very prosperous business. He remained there until the Autumn, and became a very dear friend of the Johnson family. He had now established a reputation from near and far as a professional tailor and people came from distances of thirty to thirty-five miles to patronize him, and it became necessary for him to have additional room, and he purchased the necessary building material and a lot in the town village of Macedonia and made all the necessary arrangements to build, when an opportunity was offered him to purchase one-half of the Almon W. Babbitt7 home, known as the "Cottage," which was beautifully situated on the Main Street of the village. It had upon it a good, bearing fruit orchard producing apples, peaches, pears, and other varieties of fine fruits, a good barn and other out-door conveniences. He readily accepted the offer, sold his town lot and building material and immediately went into the possession of his newly acquired property, engaged the necessary help, and was fully equipped to take care of his rapidly growing business. During the autumn this year, 1843, Grandfather John Smith was called to settle in Macedonia and was appointed to preside over the Branch of the Church in this place. On the 27th day of January, 1844, he received a very fine Patriarchal Blessing from grandfather, John Smith, which was a source of great comfort to him, and better prepared him to meet the many trials of life which had come into his pathway, for the was a stranger to the customs of his adopted home. The following is an excerpt from Thomas Callister’s autobiographical writings In the Spring of 1844, I with a few more of the brethren urged the necessity of a better organization of the Militia of our little place as the Mob was prowling in all directions and threatening to destroy our little village.8 This we accomplished by organizing a company, Ellecting A.W. Babbitt Capt. No sooner was this done than we were more or less called into service, keeping out a guard day & night, & at times expecting an attack hourly. All the efficient men would gather at one House Nights except those on guard, numbering in all seventy, all ready & on hand, and as far as I know could be trusted at that time, but how few there are left of those 70 in ranks of the Saints now (1867). I acted a good share of the time as a Scout often meeting in company with the Mob and learning their plans. About the 20est of June Joseph Smith called on all the Brethren of this pleace to come and help save Nauvoo. The company was called together to consult. All were ready except the Captain, A. W. Babbitt, who argued that it was contrary to law to comply with such a call. We were somewhat exasperated at his conducted & appointed the next in command to take his pleace, which was Leiut. Sweney. As the sun was setting we were ready to March. Father John Smith prayed & blested the company. We started for Nauvoo leaving our little Town, composed of women & children, with no protection from the Mob but God. The Mob were aware of our move and declared we should not get to Nauvoo & they for this purpose gathered in a point of timber to give us Battle, and when we came in sight they fired their Signan guns. We called a halt, to consult, some few quaked and waned to scatter through the timber, but a large majority moved to continue straight ahead. We were all on foot except some six men, which were our advanced guard. We marched in the following order: Horse Men in front, then foot men Single file, then Bagage Waggons, then rear guard. Strung out this way in the dark we made quite an appearance, so much so that we passed unmolested, and the Mob declared after that we numbered at least 500. There were not to exceed 70 all told. After marching the greater part of the night wading creeks & saturated with rain, we halted to rest at what was called the 7-mile House. This was 7 miles from the Temple and we had crossed the [illegible]. This house was occupied by a Mr. Ray who professed to belong to the church. Some of our men were sick. We asked him for permission to have the Sick lay on his floor & get them out of the rain. This he refused, and said He could not be troubled. We then made a small fire of his wood. He opened his window and forbade us burn any of his wood. At this insolence, this woodpile was staked on the fire and then his fence. At this he became very kind. Our Sick were taken in the house & otherwise well treated. At daylight we were again on the march, mud very deep & were well covered with it. Joseph came to meet us accompanied by the Brass Band. A Halt was called. Joseph spoke and blessed the company. We then marched into the city & was quartered on the Hill, near the Temple. Here we remained some three days and the Nauvoo Legion was despersed by its Leiut. General, Joseph Smith & He have himself up to what proved to be a cruel Mob, under the plighted faith of the Governor of State, Thos. Ford. Our little company returned home reluctantly, found all well, nothing disturbed9 The mob continued to rage while we acted on the defencive. On the ever Memorial Night, 27th of June, I was standing guard on the road leading to Carthage. Two strangers came from that place. I hailed them. They stopped and told me that Joseph & Hyrum were murdered by a Mob in Carthage Jail. I told them I did not believe it. They
Asked me what object I thought they could have in telling a lie, as they were strangers passing through the country. I went into our little Town with them, which was soon in commotion. The rest of this Tragical Scene is too well known to need comments. I remained in this pleace [Macedonia] making improvements & I bought of A.W. Babbitt the properity known as the Cottage House, consisting of a cottage House, a large farm, Barn & a bearing orchard of 1 ¼ acres. This was a pleasant Home & valuable please and I improved it considerable. Bought stoves and other Furniture and fitted up the House. Here I spent many happy days. Aug 31st 1845 I married Caroline Smith, daughter of John and Clarisa10 in Nauvoo, Ill. Ceremony performed by Prest. B.Young. Moved her to the Cottage in Macedonia where we commenced keeping house, Helen M. Clark living with us. This fall we moved to Nauvoo, preparatory to starting to the Rockey Mountains, as we then said. Received endowments in the Temple Dec. 16th, 1845. Married Helen M. Cark by John Smith, Patriarch. Excerpts from Thomas Callister’s diary in 1845 September 5th, 1845: News arrived to Macedonia that a mob headed by the notorious Lewe Williams composed of some hundred men was burning houses and committing all kinds of depredation in the several houses of the Church and threatening all the Branches out of Nauvoo. September 6th: The Brethren in Macedonia got together to consult what was best to be done for the mob was burning houses in the other Branches, turning sick women and children out a doors in the most shameful manner. We concluded it was best to have a strong guard out nights. September 7th: News came from Nauvoo to be ready at a moment’s warning to take up arms and defend ourselves and to organize the companies belonging to the Legion.11 September 8th: Met and organized the companies. I was chosen first Lew. In the first company. September 9th: Quit work and looking out for the mob. I was out on picket guard all night. September 10th: News came the mob was raging and burning houses in all directions. September 13th:12 I was appointed to attend a mob meeting in McDonough County. I accordingly went and got all the information I could. They were all very hard against our people. September 14-15: Standing in arms. 14th: 10 p.m. All the men met to Bp. [Bishop] Perkins and concluded to stay together all night and be ready in case of an attack. 15th: I was on guard the forepart of the night. About midnight troops arrived from Nauvoo by request because we expected an attack on our town that night. September 17-18th: Still standing arms. September 20th:13 I was appointed to go and see a [illegible] party assembled at Fountain Green. I went and found about 50 men around in Maclery’s barn swearing they would drive the Mormons out. With some difficulty I got home unhurt. I was appointed to go to Carthage in company with Captain [illegible] to inform Gen. Hardin of the proceedings of the Mob who was then in Carthage with an {illegible] Force from the Gov. [illegible] to disperse the mob. Orders was given that no armed posse exceeding four men should assemble in Hancock County during the stay of the troops. The mob immediately dispersed and the Brethren from Nauvoo went home and peace was again partially restored. October 5th, 1845: I went to Nauvoo. October 6th: I went to the meeting at the Temple, the first meeting held in the Temple of the Lord after it was covered [after the roof was constructed]. October 6th, 7th, 8th: Attended Conference, the first conference held in the Temple of the Lord in Nauvoo, commencing Oct. 6th, 1845. October 20th: Went to Carthage to sit on the Grand Jury. Court called about noon. The Grand Jury, not being all present, was dismissed till next morning Oct. 21st. October 21st: Court called about eight o’clock and about noon the Grand Jury was dismissed by Mob Law. Ungodly people and judge. The following is an excerpt from Thomas Callister’s autobiographical writings I was selected among the company that was to start early in the Spring for the Rockey Mountains. We were now making all the preparation we could with our limited means to get ready for our journey. Selling properity of any kind was out of the Question. Feb 10, 1846 we started. Left our House with the furniture in it, took what little we could put in one wagon. Crosed the Mississippi River. Whent on to Sugar Creek and campted some three weeks. It was stormy weather, hard Snowstorms, and much suffering in the camp here. Excerpt from Thomas C. Callister’s history of his father, Thomas Callister The mob continued to harass the Saints, destroy their property, and drive off their animals, burn their houses, and commit many other acts of violence and they were driven from their beautiful cottage home in Macedonia, without any remuneration there— for, and on the 10th day of February, 1846, with their few remaining household effects and with a team of oxen and one cow, they crossed the Mississippi River, on the ice, and built a temporary home at Winter Quarters, later called Florence, Nebraska, where they spent the summer and winter of 1846 and where on the 26th day of September, their daughter Helen Mar, was born. In consequence of their limited facilities for traveling, Aunt Caroline14 made the trip from Nauvoo to the Salt Lake Valley with her parents. At Winter Quarters on the 13th day of September, 1846, she gave birth to a baby boy, named Thomas, who died in May l847. During their early life in the Salt Lake Valley, and until her husband could provide a home for his families, she lived with her father and mother. During their stay at Winter Quarters bread stuff became very scarce and he made a fine broadcloth coat from cloth which he had brought with him from the Isle of Man and took into Missouri where he exchanged it for 150 bushels of corn with which he relieved the suffering of his fellow Saints to their great comfort and blessing. During this trip to Missouri he was taken sick, and when the call was made for the Mormon Battalion he was so sick that he was unable to volunteer and for the reason of this sickness he was unable to accompany the first band of pioneers.15 When the time came for the Saints to take up their line of march for the unknown West, he exchanged his log cabin for six chickens and a log chain and made preparations for the long journey across the plains, hauling all of their effects with his one team of oxen. They also had one cow which provided them with milk for their camp use, and which proved to be of great benefit to them. They arrived in. the Salt Lake Valley September 26, l847, and endured many hardships during the following winter.16 On the 9th of April, 1848, with his wife, Helen Mar, and their two and one-half year old girl and a nursing babe, they went to live out on their farm on Mill Creek, to begin subduing the barren soil. Their food supply consisted of nine pounds of flour and a half-bushel of corn meal, with no hope of obtaining any further supply until harvest. They kept the flour with which to make bread for the child, Helen. Mar, and used the corn meal while it lasted to provide gruel which they used scantily in connection with their principal diet which consisted of thistle greens. For three months they lived without tasting a morsel of bread, and for six weeks the child, Helen Mar, was without bread, and they have often said that the saddest experience of their life was to witness the child crying herself to sleep begging piteously for bread, but they had none, neither could they obtain any. It has been said of him by his wife that he would come to the door from his farm work emaciated and reeling like a drunken man because of his intense hunger, and she had nothing with which to appease his hunger except a bowl of thistle greens. As he was preparing his soil and planting his seed he said that as he made each stroke of his arm he prayed to the Lord that He would bless the soil and make it fertile and also the seed which was soil therein, that it might prow and yield forth of its bounties for their support, and he there made a covenant with Him that if He would so bless the soil and his labors, he would honestly and. faithfully pay his tit1hes and offerings, and in every way- possible would keep all the commands of the Lord, and that he would advise and teach his children to do the same. He succeeded in planting a small crop, having but a limited amount of seed. It grew remarkably well, until the approach of summer when hoards of crickets came upon then and began a wholesale destruction of the crops, and with all their might and energy they fought the crickets until they had destroyed fully one-half of their crop, whereupon a cloud of seagulls came to their rescue and devoured the crickets until none could be seen. This was the hand of the Lord made bare in their behalf, and for this wonderful deliverance by the seagulls, they offered up their Thanksgiving and gratitude to the Lord The Indians, by which they were surrounded, became jealous for fear that the white people were going to take their country, and made war upon the settlers, who began a defensive, but the farseeing Prophet Brigham Young, advised the people that it were far better to feed than to fight the Indians, and thus within a very short time they became very friendly . . . . He participated in all of the Indians outbreaks from l849 to and including the Black Hawk War of 1865. Overcoming all of the trials, suffering and hardships incident to pioneer life, and by reason of their faith and diligent service in the work of the Lord, their prayers were literally answered and the barren desert was transformed into a veritable Garden of Eden. On the 16th day of April 1855, he began his work on the farm across the Jordan River and began stocking it with cattle and sheep.17 In the early part of the fifties, he built for his families a comfortable home on the corner of North Temple and First West Streets, in Salt Lake City, where he pursued his profession of tailoring whenever opportunity presented itself, until the year 1860 when he engaged in farming and stock raising. After his home was completed his two families lived in it for several years, and although the children had their misunderstandings and childish quarrels, their mothers frequently have said that not an unkind word ever passed between them, and when the second baby boy was born, Aunt Caroline, as she was familiarly known, asked for and was given the privilege of naming him and she gave him the name of Thomas Clark, who is the compiler of this narrative, and I hereby declare that I never knew any difference between her love for me and that of my own mother, and without a doubt they are of the nobility of the mothers of men. On the 17th day of September, 1855, he was ordained to the office of High Priest, and set apart to act as Bishop of the 17th Ward of Salt Lake City18 by Bishop Edward Hunter, to succeed Bishop Joseph L. Heywood, in which capacity he labored for six years. He was intensely interested in military life and on the 27th day of September, 1851, he was elected to the office of Captain of Company "B" of 1st Regiment of 1st Brigade of Cavalry of Great Salt Lake Military District, but his commission was not issued until the 27th day of April, 1855, when it was duly issued by His Excellency, Governor Brigham Young which provided that it was to take rank from the 27th day of September, 1851, it being the time of his election to office, the said commission being now in the custody of the compiler of this narrative. On the 29th day of April 1855, he was elected Lieutenant Colonel First of Cavalry in the Great Salt Lake Military District of the Nauvoo Legion. On the 2nd day of September 1857, he was elected to the office of Colonel of the 2nd Regiment Infantry, Great Salt Lake Military District of the Nauvoo Legion, and on the same date was duly commissioned to act in this capacity by his Exce1lency, Governor Brigham Young. The "SALT LAKE CITY 17TH WARD, Salt Lake Stake, one of the original nineteen wards organized Feb. 22, 1849, consists of Latter-day Saints residing in that part of Salt Lake City which is bounded on the north by 2nd North St. (or the 19th and 22nd wards), east by State St. and, irregularly, following the brow of the hill, westward, to its junction with 2nd North St. (or the 18th and Capitol Hill wards), south by North Temple St. (or the 14th ward), and west by 4th West St. (or the 16th Ward). When first organized, the 17th Ward contained nine ten-acre blocks, included within the limits of 2nd North and South Temple streets and Main and 2nd West streets. . . . In 1852 an adobe school house was erected in the ward which served also as a meeting house, and, in 1859, Isaac Bowman, an experienced teacher, was engaged to teach the school in the 17th Ward." The said commission being now in the custody of the compiler of this sketch. On the 10th day of October 1865 he was elected to the office of Colonel of the Pauvan or "Pauvan" Military District of the Territory of Utah, comprising the entire County of Millard, which position he successfully filled until released by the hand of death. A large detachment of his Regiment, in uniform, and one of the largest assemblies, which had ever gathered at a funeral service in Millard, was in attendance at his funeral service, which was an impressive and memorable occasion. In civic affairs he served the County of Millard during seven terms of the Territorial Legislature in the Lower House, and two terms he served the Counties of Juab and Millard in the Upper House. In 1862 he was elected member of the Constitutional Convention for the Admission of Utah into the Union as a State by the County of Millard, and in the same year he was elected State Senator in the Legislature of the State of Deseret from the counties of Juab and Millard In February 1872 be again served the County of Millard in a Constitutional Convention for the Admission of Utah into the Union as a State, and was also elected by the counties of Juab and Millard as a Senator in the State Legislature from said Counties. On the 13th day of October 1857 he received orders from Governor Brigham Young to proceed at once with his regiment to Fort Bridger, and intercept the onward march of an army of the United States19 which ill advisedly had been sent to quell a reported uprising in the Territory of Utah which never had taken place, but which had. been reported to the President of the United States by unscrupulous carpetbag politicians for the evident purpose of bringing persecution upon the saints, the culmination of which is a matter of history well known to the citizens of Utah. He spent the greater part of the winter on this campaign. During this campaign he endured all manner of hardship consequent upon his meager equipment. At the time this order was issued his daughter Isabella was lying at the point of death and grave fears were entertained for her recovery, but he told her mother, Helen Mar, that duty called him and he had faith that if he rendered the service the Lord would hear their prayers and spare the life of their sick child. She answered, "Yes, Thomas, you go on and we will trust in the Lord for her safety." The child recovered and is now the mother of a large and splendid posterity. He was always known as a Minute Man, and held. himself in readiness to respond to any call for public service. He was conspicuously active in all public improvements, such as building of roads in the canyons, making canals, erecting public buildings for school houses and for public worship, organizing cooperative companies, and he always favored any- and all measures having for their object the upbuilding of this great commonwealth. On the 10th day of April 1861, he received written call from President Brigham Young to go to Fillmore and preside as Bishop of Millard County. He began at once to make preparations to answer the call and during the following month, with his wife, Helen Mar, and their children, they bade goodbye to their friends and relatives and took their departure for his new field of labor. President Young followed within a few days, on his periodical trip to the South, and at Fillmore when he introduced the new Bishop to the people, he said, "If you cannot get along with this man you are not worthy of a Bishop" He began at once in his official capacity and soon ingratiated himself into the hearts of the people, and served in this capacity for a period of seven years, when a stake of Zion was organized. Excerpts from a history of Thomas Callister written by Laura Callister Wightman, a granddaughter Here they found another enemy, the Indians; but Grandfather [Thomas Callister] seemed to have some influence with them. He was always kind to them. Through his genial attitude toward them he was able to make friends. Many times he was called to pacify warring Indians. . . . He was an Indian agent and handled all the supplies that were sent by the government to that vicinity during the Walker War. In Fillmore, as in Salt Lake, he yielded a great influence over the Indians and was always loved and respected by them. Many times he was called to settle trouble between them and the white people. On one occasion, word came that they were on the warpath and getting ready to attack the people of Kanosh. He immediately left and on arriving at their village found them with their war paint on and their tomahawks all ready to fight. He talked and labored with them all night before he succeeded in pacifying them. At last they all smoked the pipe of peace. That was surely a long night for him and a night of anxious waiting for his folks at home. He was always kind and gentle yet firm with the Indians, and he had many friends among them." Excerpt from Thomas C. Callister’s history of his father, Thomas Callister During his presidency as a Bishop at Fillmore, he established public schools, Sunday Schools, organizations for the improvement of the young, such as Mutual Improvement for the boys, Retrenchment Society for the girls, Relief Society for the women, School of the Prophets for the men, cooperative companies for farming and stock raising purposes, which companies prospered and paid good returns to their stockholders, until selfish men began to acquire and. finally did obtain control, when the small owners were pinched out and cooperation was no more, but became a monopoly rather than a cooperation, to his very great discomfiture and surprise. He was an ardent admirer of everything, which had for its object home industries and took great pride in the slogan of the young ladies: "Let the beauty of your garments be the workmanship of your own hands." On 19th of December 1863, he and Mary Lovina Phelps were united in marriage and to this union eleven children were born, five of whom have died. On the 14th day of February 1878 he and Carlie Eliza Lyman were united in marriage, and she on the 20th day of March 1879 sacrificed her life on the altar of motherhood, leaving her baby boy, Joseph Platte, who was born March 7th 1879 and who is an honor to his noble parents. On March 9, 1869, a Stake of Zion was organized in Millard County and he became the President, which office he filed until 1877, when on account of failing health, he was honorably released.20 During the twenty-three years of his public service, he rendered such service without any monetary remuneration; during his presidency of Millard Stake of Zion he was granted a leave of absence for one year and in October 1875 was called on a mission to England where he had theretofore desired to go for the purpose of obtaining the genealogy of his ancestors. He left Fillmore Oct. 21st, 1875. Excerpt from Thomas Callister’s autobiographical account of his 1875 mission call October 5th 1875 arrived in Salt Lake City in company D.P. Lyman and others to attend the Semi annual conference. Stayed at Sister Bathsheba Smith’s21. My daughter Mary M. 22 was boarding there and attending the Normal School. The 6th attended Conference, which commenced in the New Tabernacle 10 A.M. The weather wet and disagreeable. 7th continued attending Conference. In the evening 8th continued at conference, where I and eighteen other Elders were presented to and sustained by the general conference to go on a mission to Europe. This day the Conference adjourned. 9th started for home, took train for the terminus, and went on to Nephi. Stayed over night at Bro. J.G. Bigler’s where I have always been made welcome with my family at any hour day or night. 10th came on to Scipio stayed at Bro. Jacob Croft’s where I was always made welcome. 11th Drove to Holden and stayed for dinner at Bro. Richard Johnson’s who has always made me welcome. Drove on to Fillmore where we arrived 5 P.M. found my family all well. 12th I had now nine days to prepare for my mission. I had commenced a family residence some time previous to my going to Conference, and the first story of brickwork laid. I had many hands to help on the building and the brick and other material to be hauled and would have to leave it in this condition, considering a call in the Priesthood a first consideration, also had to arrange my public business as Bishop in so short a time, having had the general supervision o this department in this Country for the past fourteen years and President of this Stake of Zion since its organization. I continued arranging my business as best I could, leaving the supervision of my private affairs with my son Thomas C. and the business of the Bishopric with Bp. Edward Partridge. Saturday 19th. Made arrangements to have all my family meet at my house this evening. All present except Mary Maranda who was in Salt Lake City. Forty-three present including a few friends. My own family numbered at this date three wives, seventeen children and fifteen grandchildren, five son-in-laws and one daughter-in-law. I endeavored to explain to my children the reasons why I left my native land to embrace this Everlasting Gospel and was now about to leave them with their mothers, home, friends and all that seemed dear on earth. I told them I knew that God had revealed the everlasting Gospel and that during the past thirty- five years I had been a member of the Church and promptly complied with every call made on me by my brethren in the Priesthood and setting this example before my sons at this time notwithstanding I was engaged in building and during our evening entertainment the Fillmore Choir came in and sang many of my favorite songs of Zion. I blessed my family and commended them to the care of God. Spent a very pleasant time, buy my family felt somewhat sorrowful ay my leaving them for an indefinite period of time. Sunday 20th. This being my last Sunday here for the present a large concourse of people assembled in the State House where we attended service in the forenoon also in the afternoon. I spoke in these meetings at considerable length, talking a farewell leave for a time of the Brethren and sisters over whom I had presided for many years, and I felt that I had the good wishes, the faith and prayers of all the Saints in this Stake of Zion. Previous to my leaving, Chief Kanosh23 and the principal men of his tribe came to bid me farewell and manifested much heartfelt sorrow at their father as they called me leaving to cross the big waters. Monday 21. The time had arrived to bid my family farewell. This was the most affecting scene that happened to me or them, but I knew that my calling required this sacrifice, and we parted, trusting in God. I was accompanied by Elder P.D. Lyman, who was also called on a similar mission, we were accompany by his brother, Joseph who kindly offered his services to take us to the terminimus of the railroad distance seventy five miles Went to Scipio, distance 25 miles and put up at Bro. Croft’s. There we received the usual welcome. Tuesday 22. Went to Nephi 37 miles put up at Bro. J.G. Bigler’s. 23rd. Drove to York the terminius of the Utah southern, distance sixteen. Here Josp. A. Lyman returned home. We took the train for Salt Lake City arrived 5 p.m. Seventy-five miles put up at Aunt Bathsheba Smith’s. Here I found my dear daughter Mary Maranda waiting my coming. 23 Andrew Jenson, Encyclopedic History of the Church p.390: "KANOSH, chief of the Pahvant Indians, in whose honor the town of Kanosh was named, gave some trouble to the saints in the early settlement of southern Utah, but, in 1854, he made his peace with Pres. Brigham Young and from that time forward was friendly and lent considerable aid in defending the settlers against marauding tribes. He became a member of the Church, and on May 11, 1874, was ordained an Elder by Dimick B. Huntington, the noted missionary to the Indians. He married Sally, an Indian girl, who was rescued from a band of Indians that were about to kill her. She was partly raised in the family of Pres. Young. As the wife of Kanosh she died Dec. 9, 1878, at Kanosh as a faithful member of the Church. The site of the town of Kanosh, Millard Co., Utah, is located upon part of the camping ground used by Kanosh and his tribe. Chief Kanosh died Dec. 4, 1881, at Kanosh." 24th. Went to meeting in the new Tabernacle at 2 p.m. I with others was called to speak. After meeting the missionaries were called together to organize for their journey. I proposed Thomas Harris for Pres. Of the company. Elder Jno. Taylor proposed that I and Hamilton G. Park should be his counselors. 7 p.m. went to meeting in the 17th Ward, where I had formerly resided fourteen years and bishop of the ware seven. Met many old acquaintances and spoke half an hour. 25th. Was rebaptized for the renewal of my covenants in the fount in the Endowment House by Elder Geo. Q. Cannon and confirmed by Elders Jno. Taylor and Jos. F. Smith the latter being mouth. Before returning home from Conference all the missionaries were convened at the assembly rooms 13th Ward where they were instructed with regard to their duties as missionaries y the brethren of the Twelve and set apart for their different fields of labor. I was set apart to labor in the European mission under the Presidency of Albert Carington and blessed under the hands of Charles C. Rich and Wilford Woodruff. Excerpt from Thomas C. Callister’s history of his father, Thomas Callister He preached the Gospel in England for one year, during which time he was assigned to the Isle of Man where he made several converts and encouraged many members to faithfulness who had become indifferent, and also obtained a record of his ancestors for about 100 years. On 27th day of December 1875 he baptized Titus Barlow and Mary Barlow, his wife, Mary Hampton and Mary Ellen Hampton, her daughter; ordained Titus Barlow to the office of an Elder and organized a Branch of the Church in the City of Douglas; thus once again a branch of the church was organized in his native land. The 21st of December he visited James Cowan, 89 years of age and father of Mary Hampton, and ordained him a High Priest. About the year 1873 he was ordained to the office of Patriarch, and served in this capacity until his demise, having blessed his own family and many of the Saints residing in Millard County. He was the husband of four wives and had a posterity of 32 children and about 500 grandchildren of various degrees of relationship. Prior to his death he began work in the Endowment House for the redemption of his dead kindred, but on account of his failing health was compelled to discontinue the work, and on his dying bed he enjoined on his children the faithful prosecution of this work. During his administration he enjoyed the respect and confidence of both members and non-members of the Church, and his kindly feeling for his fellowmen and for the youth of Zion endeared him to all. He also lived in. the confidence of the Indians and during the Black Hawk War he succeeded in. keeping our neighboring Indians from affiliating with the warring savages, notwithstanding the fact that they were blood relatives, and at his funeral services the Indian Chief, Kanosh, with tear-dimmed eyes, paid a glowing tribute to his memory, and said he had lost one of his dearest and best friends, but would meet him again in. the spirit world. Remarks made by Kanosh, Chief of the Pahvante Nation at the funeral of Thomas Callister, December 3, 1880, Fillmore, Utah, interpreted by R.A. McBride I behold before me my much beloved friend, Bishop Callister. Have known for some time past that he was sick, have been anxious to see him oftener than I have. I had hoped he would get well again and to die. Now I see him dead before me. You all behold him, the young, the old, the young men and the young women. Like President Young, Kimball, George A. and others he has gone and left us, the beloved of my nation and myself in Council. Now as the generation what will become of us? The great men who have always been our best friends have gone to the spirit world and left us here behind. From them we received words of counsel and comfort. They have supplied our wants, good, clothing, and have never turned us away destitute. We ask, to whom shall we look for comfort protection? Like these of our white friends those of my nation are passing away. Among the many good and leading men of my people I am the only one now left. How long I will remain I cannot tell, and my heart aches within me and my spirit mourns and weeps. While I live I shall try to do all the good I can. I shall live to cherish in memory all the counsel and advice of those who have gone to the spirit world. Although our bodies are laid in the lonesome grave, I believe that our spirits yet live, that they go to the Great Father where all is peace and no sorrow, that our mourning days will be past and in time we will return and receive our babies which we have left, that we will raise up and live, that we will meet all our friends and kindred never to be parted again by death it will be time of rejoicing for all the nations and people who have done right here on earth. Amen. Excerpt from the Thomas C. Callister history of his father, Thomas Callister He attended the dedication of the Temple at St. George in April 1877, and had a great desire to have continued his labor for the redemption of his dead, but on account of his failing health was deprived of this much desired privilege, and gradually declined until the end came. Shortly before his demise, he called his family together, blessed them, and recounted the story of his conversion to the Gospel, and as legacy to his offspring he bore his unfaltering and unshaken testimony of the truthfulness of the Gospel, and of the divine mission of the Prophet Joseph Smith, whom he declared was the man raised up in the latter days by the God of Heaven to restore the Gospel to the earth in its fullness, and admonished then all to remain true to the faith; and until the present time they are all members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but some are not as zealous as they should be. Dec 1st, 1880, he passed peacefully to the Great Beyond surrounded by his devoted family and many sorrowing friends, and on the 3rd day of December 1880, the portals of the grave closed over one of the nobility of God. Peace be to the Dead--God bless the Living. The following is taken from LDS Biographical Encyclopedia, by Andrew Jenson, Vol. 1, p. 527 "Callister, Thomas, first president of the Millard Stake of Zion, is the son of John Callister and Catherine Murphy, and was born July 8, 1821, on the Isle of Man. He was left an orphan at an early age, and thus situated he was obliged to battle for life, with no other resources than courage and an honest heart. Early in 1840 he heard Elder John Taylor preach on the first principles of the gospel, and in March, 1841, he was baptized by Elder Wm. Mitchell and confirmed by Elder John Taylor. In the spring of 1842, he emigrated to Nauvoo, and during the subsequent years he endured with the Church the bitter persecution which characterized those days, In February, 1846, he left Nauvoo for the west, and after spending the winter of 1846-47 at Winter Quarters, he went to Great Salt Lake Valley, arriving there Sept. 25, 1847. Thus he was "one of the pioneers of Utah, as he had previously been of the principle of celestial marriage." He settled in Salt Lake City, and was soon actively engaged in public matters of various kinds. In 1853 he was sent south as far as Red creek, Iron county, to assist in pacifying some unfriendly Indians, and on his return was sent west on a similar mission. In 1855 Brother Callister was appointed Bishop of the 17th Ward, Salt Lake City. Many of the inhabitants of that Ward will remember the genial face of their former Bishop, and especially those that were acquainted with his untiring efforts to alleviate the sufferings of the poor during the "grasshopper war." And others who have since grown to man and womanhood will remember the "juvenile meetings," and feel grateful for the anxious care and fatherly interest manifested in their behalf by Bishop Callister. Sept. 18, 1857, he received orders from the commander of the Nauvoo Legion to march the next morning with a portion of the 2nd regiment to the Sweet Water country. He was absent on that expedition 76 days. Again on April 3rd following, he was ordered east with 100 cavalry and 500 infantry. He served as major. The last expedition took place coincident with the exodus south in 1858. On the return of the Saints to their homes, Brother Callister resumed the duties of Bishop of the 17th Ward, and continued to labor therein until the spring of 1861, when he was called to Millard County and appointed presiding Bishop of the county. He labored in that capacity till 1869, when he was appointed president of Millard Stake, which position he occupied for eleven years, or until 1877, when, in the language of Apostle Erastus Snow, he was "released for a [p.528] season that he might rest." Brother Callister was afterwards ordained a Patriarch for the Millard Stake. At the reorganization of the Nauvoo Legion, he was unanimously chosen colonel of the regiment raised in the district, known as the Pahvant. He was also a member of the Utah legislature for many years, and in all the positions occupied by him he was esteemed for his fidelity to right and justice. His hospitality was bounded only by the demands upon it, and for nineteen years many hundreds in all parts of Utah can testify to the heartiness with which he and his estimable family entertained the passers to and from the South. Pres. Callister's labors in Millard County were characterized by a kind and gentle spirit, and in his private as well as public career, and in his family relations he manifested his faith in love and kindness as being the greatest principles of government. His energy was almost tireless in his efforts to benefit the younger members of his flock. Sunday schools were organized soon after his appointment to preside in Millard County, and long before the Saints were "forced into" those organizations as a "measure of self-defense" for the "onslaught" of Sectarianism. Brother Callister was also a promoter of improvement societies, and in fact everything that was for the welfare of the Saints. And in his pacific policy with the red man he was always successful, and universally esteemed by them. He was the father of 32 children, not one of whom has ever denied the faith taught them by their father. In September, 1879, he was taken ill with cramp colic, and never was well afterwards, and for eleven months he was almost entirely confined to his house and bed, and gradually wasted away. The day previous to his death he requested the attendance of the choir. After singing and prayer, Bishop Jos. D. Smith and others administered the Sacrament to Brother Callister, when the choir again sang hymns of his selection. He then thanked the choir for past and present kindness, blessed them, and expressed the hope of soon meeting them in the great hereafter. The next evening, Dec. 1, 1880, he died at his home in Fillmore. In the death of Prest. Callister, Fillmore lost one of its most respected citizens and the Church one of its most sincere adherents and earnest defenders." 1 This history consists of a compilation of several historical accounts of Thomas Callister, including the following: (i) several autobiographical writings is taken from typed versions (typed by Francella C. Hale) of manuscripts in the possession of Marjorie Driggs (Mrs. Macoy, McMurray Collection, 2235 Bendamere Circle, Salt Lake City, Utah, originals of which are in the Church History Library (the spelling and grammar in the autobiographical writings have been retained as originally written); (ii) a history written by Thomas Callister’s son, Thomas C. Callister, which was dated December 1, 1921, Salt Lake City; (iii) diary entries from Thomas Callister’s mission in 1875; and (iv) additional materials which are given attribution in the footnotes. This compilation and the footnotes have been prepared by William Finlinson Atkin, a great, great grandson of Thomas Callister. 2 The names "Callister" is a contraction from MacAlister (i.e., Alexander’s son). The Greek name "Alexandros" was adopted by the Scotch. Several of the Scotch Kings were called Alexander. The name Callister is found chiefly on the northern coast of the Isle of Man, nearest to Scotland. This information is taken from the Isle of Man website. 3 He was born in the village of Kirkbraddan, Isle of Man. The Isle of Man is located in the Irish Sea between England and Northern Island in the center of the British Isles. It is about 33 miles long by 13 miles wide with a total land area of about 220 square miles. 4 Douglas is the capital and chief town on the Isle of Man. It is located almost in the middle of the Isle of Man on the east coast with a "magnificent semi-circular bay". Thinking that I had to overlook work that was made by men of experience and that had traveled over England and been to work in the first shops in London. However, I took courage and set down in my place with a strong determination to give satisfaction and to use all my exertions in doing so. But oweing to the limited knowledge I had of keeping accounts writing, etc., I labored under a great disadvantage. But I improved every opportunity in learning, etc. 5 Taylor, John, third president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, was ordained an apostle on December 19, 1838, by Apostles Brigham Young and Heber C. Kimball. Elder Taylor departed Nauvoo for England on August 8, 1839. He introduced the restored Gospel to the Isle of Man, the birthplace of his wife, Leonora Cannon. 7 Babbitt, Almon W., president of the Kirtland Stake of Zion, from 1841 to 1843. He was appointed the presiding Elder at Ramus, Hancock County, Illinois, in March, 1843 8 Susan Sessions Rugh, BYU Studies Vol. 32, No. 1, pg.149: "Less than a fifteen-minute drive northeast of Carthage, Illinois a sign announces, "Webster, Population 46."A boarded-up store, a tiny cafe, and a small white church with a bell tower mark the spot. Situated in a wide bend of Crooked Creek, Webster received its, name in 1847, less than a year after the departure of Latter-day Saint settlers who had founded the town as Ramus in 1840 and who renamed it Macedonia in 1843. In 1845 it was reputed to be the third largest town in Hancock County, and its population peaked at somewhere between five and six hundred before the Macedonian Saints left in the spring of 1846. Macedonia, like other rural Mormon settlements in Hancock County, was a casualty of the Mormon conflict centered in Nauvoo." 9 This event is described by Susan Sessions Rugh, BYU Studies Vol. 32, No. 1, pg.162, as follows: "Ironically, the Latter-day Saints were responding to the Expositor incident in a similar manner. Delegates were appointed to travel to each precinct "to lay a true statement of facts" before the public. The Macedonia companies of the Nauvoo Legion were called in to defend Nauvoo. Benjamin F. Johnson remembered that "to avoid attack [the men] traveled all night across the prairie through mud, rain and darkness, terrible to those who were there." Because of the heavy rains, they had to make their way across twenty miles of prairie "half a leg deep in water." Many of the men did not have shoes, but some were armed. According to a report given to Joseph Smith by commanding officer Uriah Yager, the company miraculously passed through an attack by a mob five miles out of Macedonia. As Joseph retold it, "The company from Macedonia opened fire about ten feet apart and marched past them within rifle shot, while the mob fired several guns at them, the balls whizzing past their heads." When they arrived safely at daybreak, Joseph directed the Legion's quartermaster to issue shoes to those who had walked barefoot. He was "glad to see them, and to hear that you were all alive in the midst of the ragings of an infatuated and blood thirsty mob." He advised them to retreat to Nauvoo if attacked by a superior force, "but never give up your arms, but die first." The men from Macedonia rested a few days before they were sent home to keep up a guard there." 10 Smith, John, the fifth presiding Patriarch of the Church, was born July 16, 1781, in Derryfield (now Manchester), Rockingham county, N. H. He was a son of Asael and Mary Smith (formerly Mary Duty) and uncle to the Prophet Joseph. In 1815 he married Clarissa Lyman, by whom he had three children—George Albert, Caroline and John Lyman. Caroline Clara was the wife of Thomas Callister. John Smith was called in 1843 to settle in Macedonia and preside over the Macedonia Branch. John Smith gave Thomas Callister a patriarchal blessing on January 27, 1844. 11 This is a reference to the Nauvoo Legion was the largest militia in the State of Illinois, at one time consisting of over 5,000 men and boys. Joseph Smith mobilized the Nauvoo Legion to defend the city and declared martial law in June 1844 as tensions mounted between the Latter-day Saints, dissenters, and hostile neighbors. Six months after the deaths of Joseph and Hyrum Smith, the Illinois legislature revoked the Nauvoo Charter thus legally dissolving the Nauvoo Legion. However, the Nauvoo Legion continued unofficially to protect the Saints in and around Nauvoo from the hostile activities of mobs. 12 Susan Sessions Rugh, BYU Studies Vol. 32, No. 1, pg.166: "Frightened by the burning of Morley's Settlement, the residents of Macedonia prepared to defend themselves. Thomas Callister, a British convert who arrived in Macedonia in spring 1842, kept a day-by-day account of events in September 1845. His eyewitness reports reflect their fears. News of the "wolf hunt" arrived in Macedonia on September 5, and on the next day the brethren met "to consult what was best to be done for the mob was burning houses in the other branches turning sick women and child out to doors in a most shameful manner." They decided to post a guard at night. When word came the next day to organize their company of the Nauvoo Legion, Callister was chosen for first guard duty. He was out on guard at night on September 10 when "news came that the mob was rageing and burning houses in all directions." In a September 11 letter to all the outlying settlements, Latter-day Saint leader Brigham Young advised them to "give them the cold lead, or obey the sheriffs counsel" if they were disturbed by mobs. He directed them to evacuate if necessary but planned "to sustain you where you are." 13 Susan Sessions Rugh; BYU Studies Vol. 32, No. 1, pg.166: "The shooting of anti-Mormon Franklin Worrell of the Carthage Grays by Sheriff Backenstos on September 16 intensified the hostility against the Mormons. The Warsaw Signal announced the murder of Worrell with a blazing headline, "Call to arms!" The story warned that "there is no longer peace for Hancock. Blood will and must flow if necessary to rid the county of the cursed authors of our troubles." The men of Fountain Green rallied to editor Thomas Sharp's call to arms. On September 20, Callister infiltrated a gathering at Fountain Green: "I whent and fount about 50 men Arnold . . . Maclery . . . swerying he would drive the Mormons out with some difficulty I got home unhurt." Saying there was "some little stir about our borders and the mob are training today at Fountain Green," on September 22, Bishop William G. Perkins hastily penned a request to Brigham Young for fifty to one hundred troops to arrive by evening. By midnight the next night, the posse arrived from Nauvoo, fewer than half the amount requested. To defuse the situation, Governor Ford appointed John J. Hardin to take military control of the area at the end of September. The vigilantes dispersed." 14 This is a reference to Caroline Clara Smith Callister, Thomas Callister’s first wife. In polygamous families, other wives were commonly referred to as "aunts". 15 He was supposed to leave with the first company of pioneers, but he contracted cholera which delayed his departure until the summer with the second company of pioneers (Daniele Spencer’s company). 16 Their first winter was spent at the Fort in Salt Lake. 17 Andrew Jenson, Encyclopedic History of the Church p.590: "NORTH POINT WARD, Salt Lake Stake, consisted of Latter-day Saints residing in that part of Salt Lake City, Utah, and vicinity, which is bounded on the north and west by the Great Salt Lake, east by the Jordan River and south by Camps Lane (or Redwood Road) from the point where that road turns west between 13th and 14th North streets (or Center Ward). The first settlers in that part of Salt Lake City which later became the North Point Ward were Levi W. Reed, Simeon Baker and Thomas Callister, who are believed to have located there as early as 1849 18 Andrew Jenson, Encyclopedic History of the Church p.751: 19 Johnston's army. During this time, Joseph F. Smith served under the command of Colonel Thomas Callister. Joseph F. Smith reported the following about this experience: "The day following my arrival home I reported myself to President Young and immediately enlisted in the legion (militia) to defend ourselves against the encroachment of a hostile and menacing army. From that time until the proclamation of peace, and a "free and full pardon" by President Buchanan came, I was constantly in my saddle, prospecting and exploring the country between Great Salt Lake City and Fort Bridger, under the command of Col. Thomas Callister and others. I was on picket guard with a party of men under Orrin P. Rockwell, when Commissioners Powell and McCollough met us near the Weber River with the President's proclamation. Subsequently I was on detail in the deserted city of Great Salt Lake, until after the army passed through the city, and thence to Camp Floyd. After this I assisted my relatives to return to their homes, from which they had fled, going to the south some time previous." Joseph Fielding Smith, Life of Joseph F. Smith, p.195 20 About the year 1871, then Stake President Thomas Callister called Fredrick Rich Lyman, Platte D., Edward L., Joseph A. and Walter C. Lyman, George Finlinson, John W. Dutson and others to settle on Oak creek for the purpose of strengthening the small colony which was then located at that place. 21 Bathsheba Smith was the wife of Caroline Clara Smith Callister’s brother, George Albert Smith, who was the first counselor to President Brigham Young, from 1868 to 1875. He was ordained an apostle on April 26, 1839. 22 Mary Maranda Lyman, daughter of Thomas Callister and Caroline Clara Smith. Mary Maranda was the wife of Edward Leo Lyman, Jr., the son of Amasa Mason Lyman and Lydia Partridge. I went to President Young’s office. Several members of the quorum of the Twelve were present. Bro. Geo. Q. Cannon told me that my son Thomas Clark was selected to go on a mission to Europe, and also if he could go, I told him he was on hand would go. Elder Jos. F. Smith had recently returned from Europe and become acquainted with my sister and other of my relatives in Liverpool, and he considered it would be better for me to go in place of my son. He and Bro. Cannon proposed this to me. I answered whatever was thought best that to do. This matter was brought before the council and Thomas C. was released and my name put instead.
The Early Years:
1821-1846 I, Thomas Callister, son of John and Catharine Callister, was born on the Isle of Man 8 July 1821. I lived with Father and Mother until I was fourteen years old. I had no opportunity of going to school, no school being within several miles of where we lived. But I always had a great anxiety for learning, and my Father took a great deal of trouble in teaching me to read and write. When I was in my 13th year, my Father sent me to learn the Tailor’s Trade. He and John Quayle entered into an agreement that I should work with him as an apprentice six years. The last four years he was to furnish me with clothing, etc. to which I agreed. During these thirteen years there is a great many things that I should like to mention that took place in the days of my youth on the Green Hills and in the Valleys of the Isle of Man, but there is a great many things that I have forgotten. Besides, my chief object is to keep a correct Journal of the things that transpired in my life from the time that I embraced the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I always had a great desire from my youth to have a true knowledge of eternal things on the Plan of Salvation; and often times inquired and thought what the reason was that angels did not visit the earth now as they did anciently. But I must return to the subject. After my Father and Mr. Quayle made the foregoing arrangements, I went to work. I worked at my trade for two years before my Mother died, I think in the month of October 1836. My Father died eight weeks later, which would be December the same year. After their deaths, Mr. Quayle and I made a different arrangement about my apprenticeship. He agreed if I worked for four years, he would be satisfied. I was glad of the change and we entered into an agreement to that effect. When the four years expired, I was free from all agreements or ties as far as my trade was concerned and at liberty to do what I pleased. I knew if I went to the city to work that the work would be different, and I was afraid I could not do it. I considered the matter and was very anxious to know all about my business. I knew if I stayed in the country, I would not know any more about city work than I did then, so I concluded to go. I went to Douglas, the largest town or city on the Isle of Man and worked for George Morrison four months. I was somewhat dissatisfied with my situation. The reasons were these: his run of business was very much inferior to others in the city and besides this, he was a very highminded disagreeable man, in my opinion. Because of this I concluded I would go to see if I could get work in a first rated shop in the city which was kept by Hugh Kerruish. He had a large establishment, Tailor—Draper, etc. I went in one evening to see what the prospect was for getting work in his shop. I think it was some time in January 1838. I told him my circumstances, that I had been to work in the country four years but was not yet able to finish nice work as done in the city. He told me in three months he could give me work. The next thing was to get rid of Morrison. While I stood in Mr. Kerruish’s shop I saw Morrison pass by the window, the shop window being very large. It was in the evening, and I stood close to a gas light. He saw me very plainly, and I saw him. He gave me a very sour look and passed by. This circumstance took place Saturday evening. Monday morning I went to work to Morrisons as usual but determined to leave him for I knew he was put out with me. About 9 o’clock in the morning he came into the workshop where I was. I thought he looked like some savage being. He turned up the white of his eyes at me and said, "Thomas, you have been into Kerruish’s, haven’t you?" "Yes sir, I called into his shop last evening," I answered. "If you are going to work for Kerruish I want you to leave." "Sir, I calculate to," I said, and he made some other remark to which I made no reply, but gathered up my things and in about ten minutes I was ready to start. He then spoke more mildly and said, "You had better stay to dinner." "I am now ready to go," all but settling with you." I replied. So we settled, and I started off. After three months I went to work in Kerruish’s shop. He told me to sit down beside his brother, and if I wanted to know anything about my work, he could tell me. After I had worked two days, he told me he wished me to work on coats with his brother, and he would insure me to be a workman. I cheerfully went to work. This brother was an excellent workman direct from London and foreman of the shop at that time. He took a great deal of pride in instructing me in finishing work. His kindness is long to be remembered by me. After I had been to work with him nine months he was going to leave his brother and set up shop in a town 10 miles distant. By this time I could finish work equal to any man in the shop, but yet I felt bad on account of him leaving. After he, Daniel Kerruish, left, his brother became much attached to me. He told me he thought in as much as I had been studying at work and paid great attention to my business that if I chose he would entrust me with all the business of the shop in his absence and in all other cases where he could not attend to it, inasmuch as I would become responsible. After a moment’s hesitation, I told him I thought I had not experience sufficient to such an undertaking. His answer was he would risk it. I told him providing he would instruct and assist me. His reply was that he would, so I had to muster up all the courage that I was in possession of to take the foreman’s place in the shop next Monday morning. I think the number of men to work at that time was eight. Monday morning I had some personal feelings concerning the matter as I entered the shop, thinking that I had to overlook work that was made by men of experience and that had traveled over England and had been to work in the first shops in London. However, I took courage and sat down in my place with a strong determination to give satisfaction and to use all my exertions in doing so. But owing to the limited knowledge I had of keeping accounts, writings, etc., I labored under a great disadvantage. But I improved every opportunity in learning, etc. The first ten months I worked for Mr. Kerruish I boarded at a boarding house a quarter of a mile distant from my shop, and had but little time to attend to anything but my work. At the end of the ten months, Mr. Kerruish told me it would be a great advantage to both of us if I boarded with him. I found it was a great advantage to be by my work, for the rule was in summer time to be to work at six o’clock in the morning, one hour and a half to dinner, half an hour at five o’clock, and more work till eight. In fall and winter, we had to be at work by eight in the morning, one hour off at noon, and work til eight in the evening. But after I had the care of the shop I had to be the first in the morning and the last at night. But still being right there, I had a good chance to study. Mr. Kerruish assisted me much in studying arithmetic, so that in a little time I could attend to my business without difficulty, and everything went on well as far as shop matters were concerned. In the fall of 1840, John Taylor came to the Isle-of-Man to preach what he called Mormonism. And as I was walking along one day, I saw a handbill published by John Taylor informing the people that on such an evening he would preach in the Wellington Hall on the faith once delivered to the Saints. I felt very anxious for the evening to come and went to hear Mr. Taylor. He preached on the gifts and blessings that the ancient saints received through faith, and that the same blessings and promises extended unto the later generation on the earth that believed in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and held the Priesthood. Likewise he plainly showed that the Priesthood was taken from the earth and that the people had changed the laws and ordinances of the Kingdom of God, etc. He met with a great deal of opposition from the different sects, etc. And I began to search the Bible and likewise believe the Gospel and on the 30th day of March, 1841, I was baptized and confirmed a member of the Church of Jesus Christ. I was baptized by William Mitchell and confirmed by John Taylor. I soon found out that my old friends had become distant and cold. Kerruish wanted me very much to abandon Mormonism, etc. I lived on the Isle of Man after I had joined the church for nearly twelve months. But in the meantime making every preparation to move to America, almost forsakened by friends and despised by old acquaintances until I was about to start. When they saw that I was so determined they began to cool off a little and wanted very much that I should live on the Isle of Man. The first of January, 1842, I began to settle up my business preparations to leave the 4th day of January. I went to see my sisters, Isabella and Catherine, and bid them farewell. They felt very bad that I was going where they could not see me. They cried much and put their arms around my neck and kissed me. I blessed them in the name of the Lord and told them how the Lord had spoken from the heavens and revealed His will to man, etc., and I was going to gather with His people to the Land of Zion, etc. I bid them farewell and started. I then made calculations to leave the Isle of Man the tenth day of January, 1842. But I received word on the 9th that I had to be in Liverpool. On the 10th the ship would start. So I packed up and got ready for I already paid my passage to New Orleans and likewise paid for my board. I had yet to go and see my only brother who was very hard against my going. But I started to see him and told him I was going to start that evening for Liverpool and should like well if he would accompany to Douglas, a distance of ten miles. He cried and said he would. He was to meet me at Charles Cowley’s which he did about sundown. Charles Cowley harnessed his horses and put them on to a cart, and I started, accompanied by my brother and many friends. Arrived in Douglas about nine o’clock in the evening. The steamship "Mona Isle" was to leave for Liverpool at half past ten. I went to see a great many of my old friends in Douglas until it was time to go aboard. I got sadly disappointed by Brother Boston (or Roston) who was going to accompany me to Nauvoo. But when the hour arrived to start, his wife would not go. This disappointment made me feel bad for I depended on him for company for I was young and unacquainted with traveling, for I had never been off the Island. And now I had to undertake such a journey among strangers. But I was fully bent on going whether among strangers or friends. My brother told me just before I started if I would turn back and quit Mormonism, he would give me half he was worth. But all the Isle of Man would not have tempted me to turn back on them terms. The time had come and the bell rang for the steamboat to start. I bid my brother and friends farewell and went aboard. Nothing on earth would have tempted me to leave at that time but the Gospel of Jesus Christ. After the boat had started a great many bid us good bye. Some voices I knew and some I did not. I looked back on my native island for the last time, but owing to the dark night, could see nothing but the town lighted up with gas light. About break of day I could see Liverpool lights and when it came daylight I could see the town off Liverpool, and a harbor full of ships which was to me quite a sight. When we got to Liverpool, I met Brother Reed. I was glad to see him for there was not one passenger on board that I knew. We were only a little ways from the ship "Tremont" then bound for New Orleans and chartered by the Latter-day Saints, on which I was going. I took my chest, etc., and put it on board ready to start. I went into the town. I got break— fast and went down to the ship. The Captain told me they would not start until the 12th. I was glad for I had two sisters living a little ways out of Liverpool that I wanted to see, but that day I spent in visiting at curious sights of Liverpool. Among these were the New Market, the Customs House, etc. Before the Customs House there is the portrait of several Kings that was taken by the Government of England. Cut out of stone, the portrait is in a form chained down—some in one position and some in another. On the 11th day of January I went to see my sister, Margaret. Had not seen her before for 18 months. Found her well. She had already learned that I was going to America, and my brother sent her a letter telling her that I had joined a sect of people called Mormons and that they would be my ruin and wanted her if possible to stop me going. She asked what these people believed in and I began to preach the Gospel unto her to which she had no objections. My other sister, Jane, had gone to London so I did not see her. My sister Margaret made me some handsome presents. In return, I gave her a "Voice of Warning" and a Hymn Book. She came with me to Liverpool, and there I parted with my last relative. The next day being the 12th day of January, 1842, I went aboard the ship "Tremont" and she left Liverpool dock at half past ten p.m. She was towed out by a steamboat, it being a beautiful, calm day. Elder Parley P. Pratt was on board and delivered an oration to the Saints. It was a New York ship and had an American flag. I recollect him telling that the stars and stripes had reference to a land of liberty and that they had now left the oppressive lands of England and was now on the way to the land of liberty and land of plenty and would no longer have to give sixpence for a small loaf of bread, etc. When we got out of the harbor the steamship returned back and Elder Pratt and many others returned who accompanied us thus far. It was about four o’clock in the afternoon when we parted. It was a beautiful calm evening. It was now all hustle and bustle on board our vessel, for each passenger was trying to find out where his berth would be. I do not know the exact number of passengers but in a little while we were all placed, and each one having his own station. I will explain a little the manner, or in other words the way, we were situated in our new home. We were steerage passengers and where we stored away our things and slept was a large open space between decks. The berths where we slept were on each side of the ship from one end to the other and one above the other. The first was about three feet from the floor and the second about six or eight. I was now totally among strangers, not a face that I ever had seen before in my life, and left all my folks and not knowing as I would ever see them again in my life. I felt considerably downhearted and sad but keeping up appearances as well as possible. I and two other men concluded to sleep together and picked out our berth which was a lower one. The weather being so beautiful we all concluded there was no need of fastening luggage of any kind until next day, so we packed our chest, bags, etc. in the midway of the ship. Each one or family had cooking utensils which consisted principally of tinware, cups, etc. Each passenger went to work and drove nails around his berth and hung up his cups, coffee pots, etc. round his berth. I among the rest prepared a place and hung up mine and so I got everything fixed ready to go to bed. After being in bed about two hours, the wind began to blow and the sea began to roar and about midnight the cry was "All hands on board!" The storm grew worse and worse. It was as much as I could do to keep myself in bed. Our tinware and luggage rolled first from one end of the ship and then to the other. When it came daylight our room was an awful sight. Almost every person was sick. Everything that was not fastened was mixed together. I got up and went on deck. the sea was very rough and remained so for three days, during which time I could get nothing to eat for those that had the management of the provisions was sick and could not attend to it. The fourth day the storm abated some, so that they dealed out some provisions. After the storm we had quite a good time, and I began to get a little acquainted. The seventh day after we started we were out of sight of land and continued to have good weather. In forty—one days we were in sight of land again, and forty—eight from the time we left Liverpool——being forty-one days out of sight of land, during which time a great many things transpired that I shall pass over. We had a very pleasant voyage, saw almost all kinds of fish, and I caught some. I worked considerable at my trade while on the sea. Had a room on the Quarter deck in which I worked, doing considerable work for the Captain and Cabin Passengers, and others. The most of the passengers were Saints. We arrived in New Orleans the sixth day of March, 1842, it being fifty-five days from the time we left Liverpool until we arrived in New Orleans, and fifty-eight since I left the Isle of Man. We tarried in New Orleans twelve days. I went to see some old acquaintances and faired with them first rate until I left there. The company chartered a steamboat to St. Louis, and we started from New Orleans the 18th of March, except some that stayed there. We arrived in St. Louis the 28th of March and next day started for Nauvoo. I had come thus far without any accident. But on the 30th of March I fell through the hatchway backward and lay there lifeless for half an hour. It was supposed the first one that saw me was Charlotte Isles, a young lady I got acquainted with soon after we left Liverpool. I was taken up and laid on a bed and remained lifeless for about one hour and senseless the greater part of the day. The first thing I recollect I was inquiring where I was. I was taken into the cabin and soon got well. A great many told me they never expected to have seen me well again. The first of April in the morning we got to Warsaw. Mr. Isles and his family stayed there. They did not belong to the Church. About sundown, we arrived in Nauvoo, being eighty four days from the time I left the Isle of Man until I arrived in Nauvoo. I went ashore and saw Elder Taylor. I was glad to see him for there was none other that I was acquainted with as I knew of. He invited me to his house, and I was glad of the invitation. Next day I went to see the Temple, the Nauvoo House, and other buildings. Nauvoo far exceeded my expectation in buildings, etc. I came back to Elder Taylor’s. The next night inquired of him if he knew anything of Quayle and M. Cowley. He told me they lived in Ramus, distance from Nauvoo twenty miles. I made some inquiry in Nauvoo about getting into work but found no encouragement. I concluded to go to Ramus and see Quayle and Cowley as I had been acquainted with them on the Isle of Man. So I started the third day of April to Ramus. Got there sometime before night. Found Quayle and Cowley farming. They were glad to see me, and Quayle wanted I should come to live with him. He told me he thought we could get plenty of work at the Tailor Trade toward the latter part of the summer. I partly concluded to stay there as the prospect for work in Nauvoo I thought was poor. I would, however, have to go back to Nauvoo and get my things. I concluded to go by way of Warsaw and see Mr. Isles and his family. After staying in Ramus three days I set off for Warsaw——distance twenty miles——a foot and got there sometime before night. Found Mr. Isles. He had rented a room. I stayed with them overnight. His family wanted to go to Nauvoo and join the Church, to which he would not consent but wanted to go back down the river, thinking he would be better. I stayed there one day and then went up to Nauvoo. Stayed there one night and went back to Ramus and went to work with Brother Quayle upon his farm for two months. Then once in awhile I would get a little to do at my trade. I felt very lonesome the greater part of the time having little or no acquaintance there. After sometime I got acquainted with Brother Tomkins and family that came there sometime after I did. They were from Wales. Time rolled along without anything very interesting happening. I soon wrote a letter to Brother Charles Cowley. It was dated April 20, 1842. There had been previous to this time, some letters sent to the Isle of Man by those who had become disaffected, trying to put down the Doctrine of Gathering, etc. I wrote a considerable, lengthy letter, as I was well known among the Saints and others, bearing my testimony to the work that we had embraced. I likewise wrote several other letters to the Isle of Man in April — to my brother and others. I went to Nauvoo several times through the summer and saw and heard Joseph and Hiram preach and wished many times I lived there. In August, 1842, I was ordained an Elder under the hands of Brigham Young and Orson Hyde in Ramus and a call was made for the Elders to go out and preach. I concluded to go in company with Isaac Clark but did not get started until February 16, 1843. We started a foot, snow about one foot deep, traveled that day fifteen miles — very tired, stayed with Brother Dungan. He lived in a small town, do not recollect the name. Next evening we had an appointment to a Mr. Green’s in that neighborhood. We went there accompanied by Bro. Dungan and family. The house was crowded with people to hear us preach. Brother Clark opened the meeting, and I for the first time in my life stood up to preach to the people. After traveling about two months from place to place, preaching every opportunity, for the people was very much prejudiced against our people, we started for home having done considerable good. Returned home the latter part of April 1843. Remained in Macedonia until after the death of Joseph, frequently visiting Nauvoo. In the Spring of 1844, I with a few more of the brethren urged the necessity of a better organization of the militia of our little place as the mob was prowling in all directions and threatening to destroy our little village. This we accomplished by organizing a company, electing A. W. Babbitt Captain. No sooner was this done than we were more or less called into service, keeping out a guard day and night, and at times expecting an attack hourly. All the efficient men would gather at one house nights except those on guard, numbering in all seventy, all ready and on hand, and as far as I know could be trusted at ‘that time, but how few there are left of those seventy in the ranks of the Saints now (1867)! I acted a good share of the time as a Scout, often meeting in company with the mob and learning their plans. About the 20th of June, Joseph Smith called on all the brethren of this place to come and help save Nauvoo. The company was called together to consult. All were ready except the Captain, A. W. Babbitt, who argued that it was contrary to law to comply with such a call. We were somewhat exasperated at his conduct and appointed the next in command to take his place, which was Lt. Sweney. As the sun was setting we were ready to march. Father John Smith prayed and blessed the company. We started for Nauvoo leaving our little town and leaving our women and children with no protection from the mob but God. The mob was aware of our move and declared we should not get to Nauvoo and they, for this purpose, gathered in a point of timber to give us battle. When we came in sight they fired their signal guns. We called a halt to consult. Some few quaked and wanted to scatter through the timber, but a large majority moved to continue straight ahead. We were all on foot except some six men which were our advanced guard. We marched in the following order: horsemen in front, then foot men — single file, then baggage wagons, then rear guard. Strung out this way in the dark we made quite an appearance, so much so that we passed unmolested, and the mob declared after, that we numbered at least 500. There were not to exceed 70 all told. After marching the greater part of the night, wading creeks and saturated with rain, we halted to rest at what was called the Seven-mile House. This was seven miles from the temple. This house was occupied by a Mr. Ray who professed to belong to the Church. Some of our men were sick. We asked him for permission to have the sick lay on his floor and get them out of the rain. This he refused, and said he could not be troubled. We then made a small fire of his wood. He opened his window and forbade us burn any of his wood. At this insolence, his wood pile was stacked on the fire and then his fence. At this he became very kind. Our sick were taken in the house and otherwise well treated. At daylight we were again on the march. The mud was very deep, and we were well-covered with it. Joseph came to meet us accompanied by the Brass Band. A halt was called. Joseph spoke and blessed the company. We then marched into the city and was quartered on the hill, near the temple. Here we remained some three days and the Nauvoo Legion was dispersed by its Lt. General, Joseph Smith. He gave himself up to what proved to be a cruel mob, under the plighted faith of the Governor of State, Thos. Ford. Our little company returned home reluctantly, found all well, nothing disturbed. The mob continued to rage while we acted on the defensive. On the ever Memorial Night, 27th of June, I was standing guard on the road leading to Carthage. Two strangers came from that place. I hailed them. They stopped and told me that Joseph and Hyrum Smith were murdered by a mob in Carthage Jail. I told them I did not believe it. They asked me what object I thought they could have in telling a lie, as they were strangers passing through the country. I went into our little town with them which was soon in commotion. The rest of this tragic scene is too well known to need comments. I remained in this place making improvements, and I bought of A. W. Babbitt property known as the Cottage House, consisting of a cottage house, a large frame barn and a bearing orchard of 1.25 acres. This was a pleasant home and valuable place, and I improved it considerable. Bought stoves and other furniture and fitted up the house. Here I spent many happy days. Aug 31, 1845, I married Caroline Smith, daughter of John and Clarisa in Nauvoo, Ill. Ceremony performed by Pres. B. Young. Moved her to the Cottage in Macedonia where we commenced keeping house, Helen N. Clark living with us. On Oct 5th, I went to Nauvoo to attend the first meeting held in the Temple of the Lord after the roof was constructed. I also attended the first Conference held in the temple in Nauvoo, commencing Oct 6th and continuing until Oct 8th, 1845. This fall we moved to Nauvoo, preparatory to starting to the Rocky Mountains, as we then said. Received endowments in the Temple. Dec 16, 1845, I married Helen N. Clark. The ceremony was by John Smith, Patriarch. I was selected among the company that was to start early in the Spring for the Rocky Mountains. We were now making all the preparation we could with our limited means to get ready for our journey. Selling property of any kind was out of the question. Feb 10, 1846 we started. left our House with the furniture in it; took what little we could put in one wagon. We crossed the Mississippi River. Went on to Sugar Creek and camped some three weeks. It was stormy weather, hard snowstorms, and much suffering in the camp here. I came . Journal ends
|
|
|
Copyright © 2004 Julie Ann Bliss Hammons. All rights reserved. |
Julie Bliss Hammons
Clarkdale, Arizona
relativebliss@hotmail.com