James Samuel Page Bowler's Autobiography

James Samuel Page Bowler's Autobiography

Note: Very long, but worth the read
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Chapter I       My Birth
Leicester-England, September 4, 1845. Aunt and Uncle Page were down from London on their annual visit on the above date and appeared greatly interested in the advent of the first son born in this branch of the family tree. They had no children and although a devotee of the protestant faith Uncle Page imbibed quite freely his favorite champagne. That was Saturday and on the day following as the chimes of St. Margaret church floated through the air Uncle Page addressed the family group as follows: “What do you intend to name the boy?” “We thought of naming him James after his uncle, my brother,” was the reply of my mother. “Will you permit me to add to that my name Samuel Page which would make it complete for both his uncles and later should it be agreeable to all concerned we should be pleased to adopt him heir to our estate.” After a brief pause my mother replied Uncle Page for your first request is granted but the matter of adoption must not be seriously considered. With this mutual understanding I was christened James Samuel Page Bowler and before returning to their home in London a deed was drafted signed and delivered to my parents which gave me the title to certain property on Humberston Road Leicester-England. My parents and grandparents were firm believers in the Gospel of Christ as taught by the Mormon Missionaries and it was tacitly understood by them and Aunt and Uncle Page that an avoidance of religious contention should be strictly maintained. Protestantism and Mormonism is here mentioned as a means leading to an end or to show that man proposes and God disposes. Sealed packages with tokens of love frequently arrived from London each containing a guinea for the boy, JSPB and renewed invitation for an early visit to the metropolis. Aunt Page always solicitious for the time when her boy should be with her informed my parents that arrangements were in progress for the consummation of that event. Thus passed the winter of 1845 and spring of 1846 when a message from Uncle Page informed my parents that he was called to France on very important shipping business, he being a shipping merchant.
Early in August Aunt and Uncle Page came to Leicester for an extended visit and for a month their carriage made frequent visits to noted personages in that vicinity; the boy always accompanying them as a matter of presumed heirship to the privileges in the Page family. On the day following the first anniversary of my birth which was celebrated in right good old English style they were called home on very important business that required their presence in London. Upon their departure their request to return the compliment appeared almost imperative but unforseen events occurred that changed that arrangement and deferred our promised visit to London nearly another year. Sealed packages continued to arrive at our home as before even though Aunt and Uncle Page were touring the eastern continent for six months. Time arrived for their annual visit to our home and ere the elapse of another year I was ushered into their palatial home in London where for two years I was surrounded with all the luxury that wealth could procure. During that period my brother John was born December 3, 1847 and at brief intervals the carriage with the Page coat of arms conveyed Aunt Page and her boy, as I had become known to her many intimate friends, to the place of my birth. On each of those occasions might be heard a feigned dispute as to who had the best right to care for the boy especially so since the babe needed all my mothers care as my Aunt smilingly averred. What brighter prospect could be anticipated than my future appeared at that time unbounded love with all that employs fabulous wealth and social rank in society with the worlds allurements before me so early in youth. Was this to materialize or was there an overruling providence guiding my destiny for good? The sequel to the above query may prove very interesting to all for whom this book is written. The first visit of my parents and grandparents to the mansion was of the most pleasant nature and the most cordial intimacy was mentioned until their second and final reunion. On that occasion some mental foreboding of unpleasant happening seemed to be present to them and they took it as a warning to be prepared for whatever might transpire on their journey and in the near future. Although they were not superstitious they were sure that something of an uncommon nature awaited them. Their reception was all that could be desired nor was there anything lacking in any manner that a casual observer might interpret as signs of approaching disruption.
It appears to be an immutable law of the universe that nothing remains stationary and therefore the human family must bow to the inevitable. It had been an open secret that Uncle Page hinted that it was only a matter of time until he should openly proclaim me his adopted son and heir and that he contemplated me being trained for the ministry. “Oh consistency thou art a jewel” truth and error cannot assimilate when this subject was broached in the family circle the ball of opposition began to roll. We shall term the controversy Protestantism versus Mormonism and therein portrayed prejudice contention vindictiveness on one side and humble honest earnest truthful conviction on the other. My parents and grandparents testified that the gospel of Christ had been revealed from heaven to the prophet Joseph Smith and having embraced the truth that was to them the only safe anchorage through life. Uncle Page took exception to this and having imbibed too freely of champagne he became very aggressive and denounced Mormonism and all who adhered to it. Thus a breach was manifest that could not be repaired or entirely reconciled to the former status. The tongue is surely an unruly member as the wise man said and Uncle Page regretted that unguarded moment but it could not be recalled and he tried to appeal unrelenting. I was taken home during this estrangement but the question may be asked why should I have to forfeit all those fine and glittering prospects within my reach because of a difference upon religious principles? True religion has ever been a chapter of much sacrifice when considered by an earthly basis but experience has taught us that there are riches that surpasseth all understanding and in this instance there was no other alternative than to renounce one or the other. I shall now proceed to outline the ultimatum of this chapter in detail. Occasionally a sealed package came to our address from London containing the guinea for the boy as heretofore, but no urgent request for another visit to the metropolis. Thus the estrangement became very apparent to all concerned and which caused some comment because of the publicity of former events in the town Leicester where there had appeared no small recognition of the distinguished guests of the years previous. Coming events may cast their shadows before in some instances but there was a surprise in store for all of us as when my mother and grandmother were walking down Belgrave Gate the principal thorough fare in the town they saw a carriage stop and heard a familiar voice call aloud Ann, Ann. The wellspring of sisterly love was in evidence as Aunt Page took my grandmother affectionately to her and wept tears of joy caring not for the gaze of strangers passing by. All former formality was dispensed with as they proceeded to the abode where once many happy hours had been spent and where the boy first saw the light of day to the joy of all present. The absence of Uncle Page was noted on that occasion but very little reference was made to the fact more than it was surmised that he would appear later which proved to be without foundation. Aunt Page stated candidly that she came with the intentions of making a final appeal for the care of the boy and assured my parents that they need have no fear of my religious training. The matter was discussed pro and con not as in the home in London however but in a spirit of consideration towards each other. They made it a matter of prayer but as no answer came my mother kindly asked Aunt Page not to press the matter further but to try and recognize the fact that the sacrifice was too great. If the curtain could be drawn across this scene with justice to all concerned I should be pleased to do so but that would make incomplete the incidents leading to a full understanding of my early experience. Aunt Page then stated that she had hoped to persuade her sister and family to renounce Mormonism as a delusion and to show the extreme folly of making any sacrifice for such an unpopular religion. She also emphasized the aversion of Uncle Page to any innovation to the established Protestant church and stated that the law of the land would finally prohibit the Mormons preaching their new doctrine in England. How nearly this prediction was in after years disgracefully fullfilled many honest souls might could tell but truth is mighty and will prevail. Further discussion on that subject was precluded by the boy falling head long in the fire which for a time caused some little excitement in the family although nothing more serious happened than the boy losing his eyelashes and the pet dog Tiney he had been playing with was disposed of. “There” Aunt Page exclaimed “that is a judgement on you for keeping the boy when you have three children and I have none.” When on the day following Aunt Page said adieu as she said for ever and at the same time taking me in her arms she placed on the table before me an hundred pound note on which appeared a tear in parting. Childlike and having had so much attention I clung to my aunt seeming to realize her love for me at that particular moment. In order not to appear unkind my mother uninvited accompanied Aunt Page in the carriage to the market place, my grandmother taking her seat by the side of her sister. Silence reigned excepting the fond words spoken in my ear by Aunt Page. Words that have echoed in my ears so many times since especially so when in my wandering I have realized the fact that fortune does not always accompany the wanderer. There was another parting scene that might have been witnessed by the casual observer but no apparent relention on either side as the carriage disappeared on the London road on its journey homeward. Often have I in contemplation of that parting pondered on the words of our Saviour that tell us “ He that will not leave everything for the gospel sake etc. etc.” but it’s not my purpose here to question the propriety of my parents and grandparents on that occasion but suffice it to say that the original plan mapped out for me by Aunt and Uncle Page was changed entirely. The curtain now falls on the first scene of this drama.
 Chapter II
It has been truly stated that early impressions are lasting of which fact I am a living witness. Of all the heavenly music that I ever heard was when my mother sang in an unknown tongue and the interpretation thereof which thrilled every member of our family. My mother who could not part with me for a time not even to the care of my aunt who also appeared to love me most dearly. Mother had not a natural strong musical voice but on that day the music that reverberated in her room was of an heavenly nature. Shortly after that event my mother appeared to decline in health until she finally stayed in bed for several days. One day as we sat watching her she ceased to breathe and we sat there thinking her spirit had taken its flight. Even the neighbors who came in to see her pronounced her dead. My grandmother commenced to prepare her burial clothes when a voice as from the tomb said, “Mother I am not dead as you all suppose, but have heard all that has been said yet could not speak.” She then told in detail of many scenes she had witnessed in the spirit world and that she had been permitted to return for a short time to bring another child into this world but in just one year she must leave us. She speedily recovered her health to a certain degree and joy mingled with anxiety pervaded the minds of all concerned. In order to insure perfect health my mother was urged to have an extended visit with relations in Long Whatton, Leicestershire the birth place of my father that was noted for its healthy invigorating atmosphere. Mother appeared willing to comply with every request for the benefit of her health and happiness but could not be in any manner dissuaded from her conviction of the ultimatum.
While in Long Whatton Mother advised us quite frequently in such glowing terms of her health improvement that the shadow of apprehension of approaching demise was greatly dispelled. Faith and hope were not lacking in the family circle during those summer months and enjoyed also by my father’s parents and those with whom my mother was associated not withstanding her assertion of coming events. Arrangements were made for my mother to return home the first Monday in October. Two days previous to her departure she visited with her Aunt and Uncle Burrows at Dry Pot Lodge a farm by the road side about a mile from the village. She returned rather late in the afternoon. The aspect appeared to her most delightful and she sang her favorite hymn, Joy to the World the Lord will come and earth receive her king, the echoes of which reached the ears of a number of people who remarked how happy my mother must have felt at that moment. When she reached the pathway across the field it being much nearer that way than on the lane she decided to take the nearest but as she approached the entrance she saw a gray hound dog coming directly toward her and being afraid of such animals she stepped back for it to pass her. When within a few steps of where she stood the ground appeared to open and the dog disappeared from view. My mother was impressed with the meaning of that strong reminder. Upon relating the occurrence to my father’s parents they sought to evade their conviction, but my mother bade them accept the decree of heaven as she herself had done and was prepared to accept as for the best. That incident was kept secret in the family for some time but when my mother arrived home a few days later she not only made it known to her immediate family but also frankly repeated her experience many times to friends who inquired of her concerning her absence from home. During the interval between the above strange incident and September first Corrected date. The author had written March sixth (the birth date of half brother, George). following when my sister priscilla was born my mother often referred to signs pointing to the fulfillment of all that had been made known to her. After the child was born every attention was paid to my mother but without pain she did not gain strength but continued patiently looking for the time when her spirit should take its flight to that blessed mansion that she said was prepared to enter there. Just one year to the minute as mother had foretold she breathed her last so quietly and peacefully that all who were with her looked upon the scene with reverential resignation and I heard my grandmother whisper with a sigh “Thy will 0 God be done.” Grandfather took me and my sister Mary Ann to gather wild flowers and to take our attention from the death chamber and having taken a luncheon with us we did not return until evening.
Aunt and Uncle Page attended the funeral and by pleading with our family and my pleading also they took me to their local abode where I remained their idol for two weeks during which time I reigned as a prince on their throne. I was then five and a half years of age and can remember distinctly every thing of import that was said and that happened during that short period. For instance my sister who was over two years my senior came to visit me two or three times and really envied my position and left with tears on her cheeks. This was the property referred to that had been deeded to me at my birth and of which more may be said, anon. The parting at that time was made more amicably than on former occasions already referred to but nothing was said about adoption or me going to their home in London and after clasping me to her breast and fervently kissing me goodbye the carriage rolled away for London. My grandmother had promised my mother that she would be a mother to us children and well and faithfully did she keep that promise. The milk of human kindness and affection was shed around our home and all was done for us that loving thoughts could suggest but still there was a void that could not be filled and I would frequently go alone to the Hill Street Chapel grave yard where in a well built double brick grave rested that mother who in life could not part with her boy. I had to begin to realize that my mother had left us never to return and that I called to her in vain and that I should never hear her voice again on this earth and for a time nothing seemed to appeal to me as a reality or worthwhile. I was sent to the infant school where other children attended who had lost mother or father or both and where the good kind motherly governess would talk and sing to us about heaven and our loved ones there which to me was like oil upon the troubled water and I soon learned to love that dear old lady in some degree. The care of four motherless children was a tax upon grandmother and it was suggested that I be sent to Long Whatton to stay with my fathers parents for a while and when proper arrangements had been made I was placed on the train that went to Long Whatton eleven miles where I arrived about noon and was met at the station by the man that was to take me to my grandparents which he did in his dog cart. That was the mode of travel (C) in those days 1850 and even later but it was slow traveling to be sure and very unpleasant in stormy weather and also in that hot sunshine as there was no cover to train or dog cart. That change of taking me from the place where I had learned what real sorrow was to a child had a good effect upon my health and enjoyment. In addition to my parents in charge and their family I met for the first time my counterpart in the person of my cousin William Burrows (C) with whom I spent many days in boyish sportful fashion and for whom I formed an enduring tie of the fondest recollection. More anon. Upon my return home in Leicester I felt more at ease in company and sought companionship with those about my own age. My Uncle James Hutchinson who married Miss Mary Hall whose parents owned the hardware and music store in Belgrave Gate Leicester had one son only, named William and we became boon companions and we together with William Hill whose parents owned the Flower-de-luce a first class Inn in the same neighborhood formed what might be called a triple alliance which while it lasted kept us comparatively carefree. I here wish to portray the leniency of our parents and guardians and our youthful and agreeable and aspirations in order to make life as useful as possible. We owned the grocery store from which I could coax supplies from my grandmother and any kind of juvenile musical instruments we needed could be obtained by the same means by cousin Will. Thus being equipped with what we considered all things necessary for social entertainment we invited our intimate friends to the room set apart for our amusement at the Inn above mentioned, what we three could not think of or contrive in order to make our show a success was not to be considered for one moment. During the period which terminated all too abruptly my Uncle Bowler an eminent lawyer and I may add a perfidious scoundrel had entered into league with my Uncle Page to defraud me of my rightful inheritance. Thus he being the attorney that drew up the body of the deed knew there should not be any defects but he claimed that it had just occurred to his mind that there was a slight omission that should be rectified without delay. Unsuspecting any duplicity the deed was handed to him and with profuse promise of returning a deed that could not be contested he left ostensibly for the court house but that was the last seen of him or the deed. My parents learned through a particular friend Mr. Breedon from London that a bribe of five thousand pounds did the work and that Uncle Bowler went to America. In a letter addressed to my father the statement was made that Uncle Page had a son and heir but that he was anxious that I should receive as my portion one thousand pounds in fee simple. That assertion was known to be false and although that letter remained unanswered the thousand pounds came to hand which also remained as a silent witness to the flagrant deception. That lesson came to me when old enough to realize fully right from wrong and although we were not affluent in wealth our financial condition was the average of those around us at least. “Should the changes of life like the tide ebb and flow” was demonstrated when very suddenly Mrs. Hill and her son William my playmate disappeared for parts at that time unknown to but a few. My Uncle James and family changed their place of residence also and it was then I began to more freely realize that I was a motherless boy and life from then did not seem to be exactly the same to me. Not that I lacked attention and the very best of care for grandmother filled her position most faithfully as she had promised my mother, before she passed away. Missionaries from Utah frequented our home anon, whom were Jacob Gates and John I. Angus from St. George, Utah and the first principles of the gospel were taught to me in childhood and became plainer as the years passed by.
Again I was taken to Long Whatton and while there many happy days were spent with my cousin William Burrows (C) at Dry Pot Lodge, days that knew no shade of sorrow, as the song gave it. Will was two years my senior and our meeting was as two kindred spirits as though we had been closely associated in the spirit world. The first trick he played on me was to invite me down to the spring at the lower end of the field, but he did not caution me to beware of the certain gentleman sheep (C) that was monarch of all he surveyed in that large enclosure. Will was as full of fun as an egg is full of meat and we were in the height of our glory when suddenly something from behind the tree came behind me with such force that it raised me up and landed me on the other side of the spring to the delight of my would be innocent companion and the dismay of the city boy as the boys called me. The railroad trip, the ride in the dog cart and the introduction to the spring were primitive scenes that left their imprints on my mind and I suppose will last while memory serves my purposes. Poaching or stealing game was a crime punishable by imprisonment but men would set snares in the hedges and risk being caught if only they could catch a rabbit or hare even watching half or all night for their prey. Occasionally a poacher would be daring enough to be shot by the game keeper and a song was composed on such event “Me and five more a poaching went to catch some game was our intent etc.” and my Uncle Joseph Hutchinson was one of them that were caught near the spring above named. Before my visit terminated I got even with cousin Will by making a noise imitating of a hare in the hawthorn hedge one night where I had hung a pail and he took the bait and water too and went all over him, but we simply laughed it off with a promise from him that there was one in store for me. My Uncle and Aunt Burrows related to me while at Dry Pot Lodge many things that my mother had confided to them that day when she was bidding them a final adieu as she told them for she was confined never to meet them again on earth, which was verily true. My association with cousin Will was of such congenial nature that I preferred to stay with him out there alone to being in the village with the boys and that caused some jealousy on their part but he proved equal to the occasion by inviting a number of the boys to a party and told them that was my farewell party and he wanted it understood that it was not my fault that I had been absent so much from them but because of him being alone so much. I promised the boys that my next visit to Long Whatton would be mostly with them but little did we know or think that never again should I be permitted to associate with them but little did I think I would never meet my dear cousin William Burrows again in this world, blessed be his memory.
Chapter III
Upon my return to my home in Leicester former scenes appeared to have changed because during my absence there was a change in our family residence and it was remarked that I had changed wonderfully in that short time. Well do I remember how different life and all my surroundings seemed to me at that time and after being baptized a member of the church of Jesus Christ I had a desire to learn a trade. Elder John Walsom who baptized me had a shoe shop nearby with one indoor apprentice Harry Glover and that seemed to attract me more than anything so that I was taken as an out door apprentice that is I was at home at nights and on Sunday. I was to remain in that position for seven years but before the first year ended I was free because of cruel treatment of the master. It was winter season and I was late one morning and just in the act of lighting the fire when the boss came in with his boots in his hand and he threw them at me which took my breath for a minute but that was the end of my apprenticeship. He tried his best to make me believe he thought it was Glover instead of me and told my father so but that did not justify the act no matter who it was, too much of that treatment was indulged in, in those days. John Walsom was a good shoe-maker but not a good christian as he changed his faith from Mormon to ranter and back again twice to my knowledge in a few years and yet he had a noble wife and family who came to Utah in early days. Betsey Patrick was my Sunday School teacher she also came to Utah and was married to John I. Angus making their home in Saint George, Utah. Our meeting house or the one rented at that time was in Denman St. Leicester, my father being chorister. Elder Aaron Nelson presided over that branch and they were another family that left and made their home in St. George and his going brings to mind an incident that occurred with William Nelson as one of the chief promoters. William, my sister Mary Ann, and myself were on our way to Sunday School when an evil thought was presented to his mind and he suggested that we take a stroll through the Abbey Meadow. When on the canal bridge I saw some boys having a fine time in the stream and without due consideration I plunged in to find that the water was too deep, for me and had it not been for help rendered and my sister taking hold of my hair that would have been my last trip but it learned me a lesson not to play truant from Sunday School again. The words of Aunt Page were verified at that period as I well remember on several occasions violent measures were resorted to to prevent the preaching of the gospel in public. Men and at times even women and children were ill-treated because of their religious belief but a few honest hearted souls always remained faithful under the most trying conditions. I was taken suddenly ill and for a time my life was in the balance the doctor giving but little hope of my recovery but my health was restored by the power of the holy priesthood and the faith exercised in my behalf. Another great change happened in our family when my father married Miss Mary Moore of Keyworth Leicestershire who was a great help to my father as leading soprano in his choir. I have heard and read much of a disrespectful nature concerning the proverbial meanness of a stepmother but my own experience does not confirm this discrepancy. Miss Moore had belonged to the Keyworth branch of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints a number of years and came to our home highly recommended by her former associates and I venerate her memory as being one of Gods nobelest women that has graced this earth a kinder mother never lived and I missed chastisement that my own mother might have administrated. My conscience bids me bear record of that fact. Conditions in England during that eventful period including the years 1853-4-5 were anything but pleasant. The Crimea war caused much suffering especially among the poorer class of people lack of employment with its attendant evils reduced the moral and spiritual atmosphere to a low ebb. An epidemic of measles did its deadly work. My sister Priscilla being a victim to the dread disease and we placed her in the brick grave by her mother in the Hill Street Chapel yard. My Uncle James Hutchinson and his little daughter also rested there until the year 1867 when all the bodies were transferred to the new cemetery on Wilford Road. Miss Jarvis my late Sunday School teacher went to St. George, Utah and was married to Louis Robbins of whom more anon. If I wished the good will of my playmates or to avoid being taunted about my religion I must attend the same church they did and imagine a boy of ten years being nic-named old Joe Smith and old Brigham Young every time I appeared on the public street. There was a protestant church school opposite our home while our meeting house was nearly a mile further and during one stormy season when the snow lay deep I repeatedly urged my upon my father to permit me to attend the school near home. He reluctantly consented which proved to be the best that could have happened to me as the sequel will show. To be sure my playmates were more agreeable which passed off very well according to outward appearances but my sister Mary Ann two years older than me absolutely refused to attend any other place of worship than ours in Denman Street and so persistent was she that for a time she went to Sunday School alone. That was a test I was not fully prepared for but it proved effectual in making me resolve to never again be ruled by an opposing influence. I was employed at that time in the hosiery department which occupation appeared quite suitable for few years and during the winter of 1861 (B) and 1860 the time when Prince Albert died I resided with my uncle Benjamin Bowler in Keyworth the birth place of my stepmother. (B) There was much opposition to the few Mormons in that neighborhood and I believe that was the most lonely Christmas I ever experienced in fact a gloom seemed to pervade everywhere and everybody to such a marked degree that instead of caroling according to custom one heard the funeral dirge. My uncle in praising the goodly life of Prince Albert to our neighbors incidentally mentioned our belief in the resurrection and degrees of glory in the immortal sphere. A sudden fit of prejudice burst forth which was to me another evidence that evil influence did exist and was manifest more or less wherever the truth was advanced. Not long after that occurrence we moved to Long Whatton (B) where I stayed until late that summer when on my return to my home in Leicester there was an increase in our family. On the sixth day of March previous brother George was born (B) he being named for his uncle George, who was then in India but who was expected to return shortly and pay us a visit. After the Indian mutiny where so many brave soldiers in the British Army met cruel treatment and death where General Havelock's daughter ended her life by falling into a well rather than submit to the fiends that sought her ruin and after Uncle George had helped take prisoner Nened Sab King of Delhi then he returned crowned with honors and plenty of money for gallant service rendered. Boy like I sat and listened with abated breath of the thrilling description of the relief of Lukno and the bravery of those nobel men in action who counted it an honor to save their flag from disgrace. Again the tables turned when Uncle George discovered that his sister Mary was a Mormon and he began to talk of leaving for Keyworth in a few days but she prevailed on him to try and think better of the condition and not leave so abruptly. Myself and brother John won uncle George Roper over and he stayed with us longer than he intended and we looked upon him as the biggest man we had ever known until he became resentful toward his sister and although our stepmother we could not accept that treatment from anyone. She knew in whom she had put her trust and nothing on earth could change her honest convictions. I was then employed in the Harris factory working from six a.m. until six p.m. which was considered a proper working day and being rather late one morning and seeing the boss coming toward me I started the machine and tried to hang the wrench in place while it was in motion. It was fortunate for me that the boss was near enough to throw off the belt just as the shaft met and broke my wrist or something more serious would have happened. I was home again in good time for breakfast but I did not want any and my mother hurried me to the hospital where I remained for two weeks as the doctor said my shoulder was also affected and I had a nervous shock. Uncle George Roper left us his photo in his regimental dress the 81St Regiment was noted for their valor and we felt proud of that photo although he never visited with us again. Uncle Thomas Greton of Kegworth wrote to his sister Mary that George was married and resided in Kegworth and if she wished to see him she would have to go there but she must not bring her religion with her. So fervant was our stepmother that although my father said he was afraid of crossing the sea she told him she was going to Zion even though she had to go alone and to that end she made all preparations but that was not to be. She was taken suddenly sick no pain but could not get around and she declined so rapidly that her spirit passed away just as the company left Liverpool that she intended to travel with (D) and my grandmother Bowler said she had gone to Zion anyway. That was an experience I never could forget as I took charge of the little two year old motherless boy George to keep him quiet as best I could that long dreary night and on the next morning at six a.m. I started on foot, it being Sunday to Long Whatton fifteen miles. Grandparents and I walked (D) the fifteen miles, back the next day but I was so tired that I could not keep up with them the latter part of the journey although the road was as smooth as could be made. The winter following was dreary and we felt lonely but my sister took the boy George to her home to care for him as her own. We all remember those troubled days in the year 1863 when war clouded the horizon everywhere and many were out of employment. I found a home suitable to my inclination with William Hardy and wife who had no children and he being a shoemaker I finished learning my trade with him. Their only child named James was dead and I seemed to take his place in their home and I began to study music at home and the Pitman Phonography and life was then a source of joy and satisfaction to me. My interest in these studies increased until it was my delight to study at all hours when not at work at the bench and often in the summer season did I awake at early dawn and go into the Abbey Meadow book in hand. One of those occasions (A) I was the means in the hands of the almighty in saving a young lady from a watery grave. My mind was engrossed as silently I bent my steps toward the pasture as it was known down by the side of that same canal that so nearly engulfed me years before as already related. This incident and my soldier experience (A) will be fully portrayed in my book of poems. The one entitled “Then and Now,” the other “Memory Recalls.” Mr. and Mrs. Hardy were as kind parents to me and much of my success in life is due to their wise counsel. Those were happy days for me the recollection of which will be vivid as long as I live and I hope to meet those benefactors in the great beyond. One Sunday I walked eight miles to Gilmorton to visit with a sister of Mrs. Hardy’s who had a rather large family and who seemed much interested in my visit. That was my first conscious awakening to the fact that I had an admirer in the form of their oldest daughter Harriet who unmistakably gave me to understand that my visit might be extended indefinitely. Much as I enjoyed their congeniality my mind was so entirely engrossed with my studies of music and phonography that I begged to be excused promising to call again in the near future. My brother John returned and I took him in the shop to work with me, but he did not stay very long in that position his mind being quite unsettled. I tried every plan I could think of to induce him to make or form a resolution to know that he wouldn’t wander around but all to no purpose for he just could not remain quietly in one place any longer. The result was that he came to the shop one morning and informed me that he had enlisted in the army and although I offered to pay the “smart” as it was termed I could not persuade him to accept my offer. My poor boy I said as he left me with a feeling of some unpleasant foreboding that I could not account for at that time but that was fully manifested when he deserted and went to America. I never saw him again but we corresponded until after I came to Utah. This was when his fiancee Mary King followed him and they were married and settled in New York state where he became a Baptist minister. In after years some of his family still reside in or near the old home established while he was living. I began to think myself a man about that time and there being a young growth of beard appearing on my face I called on my cousin James Staniforth, the barber, to shave me but he told me that if I did not commence that operation I never need to and I never have. But few converts came to our meetings in those days and the Leicester branch of our church was reduced considerably by emigration death and removal. Miss Harriet moved to the city and frequently came to see her aunt when if I was at home I had my share of her attention and would of course be gallant enough to escort her to her home. God bless the girl, noble minded she was but she cared more for me than I could reciprocate and we finally drifted apart to the destiny that awaited each of us. Still absorbed in my chosen studies I spent most of my spare time with my books fully determined to make myself proficient in that line before I engaged in my serious pursuit in life to detract my attention. Anyone who has undertaken to master these two studies alone without a tutor or teacher will appreciate may task. Granddad Hutchinson who lived to the good old age of ninety three who drank liquor that would drown him and smoked his weight in tobacco was just the kind hearted soul he was when so many years previously he married my grandmother. Old though he was and no relation only by marriage he was to me an inspiration in my study that helped me along greatly that is my object in mentioning this fact at this juncture. I do not mention items of discouragement for the simple reason that my readers could not appreciate the recital nor would it serve any good purpose here but suffice it to say that many thorns were very wisely and kindly cleared out of my path in life's journey that I am extremely thankful for. Many changes occurred that need not be mentioned at this time reference to which may appear later but the one great change that comes to all normally mortal beings was about to transpire and it seemed as though I was being prepared for it in a way that surprised myself and my most intimate friends. Before proceeding further I should introduce my brother John who like the prodigal son left his home several times during his boyhood in fact we never knew what hour he would be absent. This was a source of much anxiety in our family circle and when our stepmother died brother John was on the training vessel Cornwallis. My father thought it best for all concerned to cast our lot with a very good family whom he had known many years which proved to be very agreeable all things considered. The shoemaking business had changed considerably at this time as it was done in separate departments or branches. Machinery doing a good part of it and I was one of the first to learn the new method called the finishing. By this means shoes were made by the dozen instead of odd pairs as formerly and men who knew nothing of the art of shoemaking could learn a part or branch of it and earn more money than in the old way.
Chapter IV
The holiday widely known as the Lester or more properly Leicester races was a great attraction far and near. Thousands of excursionists thronged the race course on the London road each day and thousands of pounds changed hands during those two days in September each year. All kinds of slight of hand performances were in evidence to cheat people out of their money until a law was passed prohibiting gambling of that kind and even then when policemen were not in sight the nefarious games were played. In early youth I had my first horseback ride from a field nearby. I was offered “two pence” to fetch the horse and thought it a treat to look like “Dick Turpin” but the razor back animal nearly cut me in two before I could deliver him to the owner or the owner could deliver me from pain. This however is digressing from the narration of events I have in mind of that “great change” referred to in the preceding chapter. Invitations to the wedding reception of Miss Mary Cooper, whom I had known from early childhood, combined with being my birthday anniversary was a pleasant event, and I enjoyed it by twenty guests. Among them were Matilda Hill and her younger sister Annie the latter two being comparative strangers to me. At the table I was purposely or otherwise seated next to Miss Matilda and so shy or embarrassed was I that I dare not pick up my fork that fell to the floor. Whether or not that fact was noticed I could not decide and as songs and games were mirthfully enjoyed, midnight seemed to come all too soon for all present. Now my readers please take notice that I was invited with others to accompany Miss Matilda and Annie home in Havelock Street, fully a mile across the town. At first I thought it best to be excused but no sir the die was cast and I then resolved to enjoy the walk and company as best I could and before proceeding halfway I found myself equal to the occasion. At the end of our journey we parted with the understanding that we were to meet again in the near future which we did in a rather informal manner. I soon discovered the fact that I had met my affinity that Matilda Hill had in some way attracted me as nothing before or since could and I also learned that she was looking my way. At our next meeting I did not feel quite so bashful as on the former occasion and after spending a very pleasant evening at the home of the mother of the before mentioned bride. I with a little encouragement of our friends mustered boldness to ask the pleasure of visiting Matilda, at her home which was granted and I then became a frequent visitor at No. 36 Havelock Street Leicester. Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Hill were highly respected members of the Wesleyan church, Mr. Hill being a local preacher and home missionary. I then began to realize that life is real and that environment played a conspicuous part in forming daily evolutions and destiny of all flesh. Cupid held full sway as we mingled with the best of society hence our happy thoughts, intentions and aspirations were enjoyed to the full. Thus the months sped joyously along until winter spring and summer and then Leicester races again upon which occasion we named the day of our intended marriage but agreed to keep it a secret for the present. None but the immediate family were taken into our confidence until the banns were published, in the churches of St. Margaret and St. Mary our respective parishes that James Samuel Page Bowler and Matilda Hill were to be joined in wedlock if none gave just cause why this should not be. Our excursion to Mattock Bath in Derbyshire was an introduction to new friends new scenes and objects and for a curiosity we purchased some of the novelty there formed by those mineral springs chief among which was a pair of candle sticks of the most artistic design. The many happy hours spent at freemans common or the “gardens” as it was commonly termed, our attendance at the various places of worship and our social standing and our ability to earn plenty of money all conspired to lead us to that earthly paradise that make life what it should be. December 3’~”, the 17th anniversary of the birth of my brother John dawned unusually bright as the carriage conveying the bridal party J. S. P. Bowler and Matilda--Austin and Ann Hill to St. Marys Church where I for the first time realized the significance of signing my name in full, James Samuel Page Bowler. Ring out ye merry bells an old familiar phrase and the sun shines on both sides of the hedge, and the often repeated adage applied with force on that occasion as the bells did peal forth their chimes long and loud and the suns rays appeared brighter than ever known in the month of December. Our home had been rented and furnished in Fleet Street and thither we repaired where we were joyfully met by a host of our dear ones who were there to greet us with blessings in our new home. Among those present that day were Joseph Hill his oldest son Austin and wife Eliza and children the next oldest son John and wife Ann and all family relations who could attend in addition to our most intimate friends. It being Sunday moderate mirthfulness was observed and father Hill was duly respected in his ecclesiastical position but for a wonder religion proper was not discussed during the day. Thus we launched on the sea of matrimony with conditions most favorable to our reaching the blest harbor in peace and safety with blessings predicated for our future journey through life. In the course of events our first child was born April first 1866 and we changed our residence to one in Havelock Street where I past through one of those perplexing experiences known as sympathetic strike the first and last strike I ever participated in as it ended in contention and utter failure. During this time I found employment in Gisborough near Northampton and saw the many names and initials that were cut on the trees and fences in Nasby field and lane of people who had gone there to view the place where Oliver Cromwell took the king prisoner and won the great battle. Upon my return to Leicester my uncle Jabez Bowler called to see us and say goodbye as he was on his way to Liverpool to join a company of Latter-Day-Saints who were bound for Utah. That appeared to be the first intimation my wife had that I had been raised, yes I may say born and raised in the Mormon faith but she did not seem to take it very seriously at that time. August 12, 1866 our son James Samuel was born and trade conditions being still unsettled I went to Nottingham where I found suitable employment with Mr. Charles Bentley and after a six months test I sent for my family. This was our first great change as everything and everybody was strange to us but conditions were so much more favorable for us that we soon concluded to make our home there or in the suburb Sneinton. There in No. 2 Henry Street many of our children were born namely Ann Elizabeth, John Henry, Kate, Mary Ann, Florence Matilda, Walter Wallace, Francis Joseph. My object in specifically noting these events here is that my posterity may have no difficulty should they visit in those parts in England in being directed to the exact house and Street where most of my children first saw the light of day. It was there also that I renewed my covenant by baptism which I consider the most noteworthy in all my experience. Many false reports were circulated by the three P’s Public, Press and Pulpit regarding the conduct of the Elders or Missionaries from Utah and in justice to them and the behavior of those with whom I had been acquainted I cite one incident. It was Christmas Eve and as was the custom with young people to kiss each other under the mistletoe they attempted to take that liberty with Elder John Mendenhall from Salt Lake City. What happened right there was sufficient refutation for any honest soul and was no doubt to all there present. It was not alone his mild brotherly admonition but what his words conveyed was nobely grand. “The last woman I kissed was my mother and the next woman I kiss will be my mother.” I shall here recount that experience of my rebaptism to show how the two opposite influences operate upon the mind. I had attended meeting in the Coffin Chapel in Shakespeare Street several times and my old love for the Gospel of Christ had burned in my breast until I decided to return to the fold. In broaching the subject to my dear companion I did so as mildly as possible but as firmly as the everlasting hills. “Matilda it will be my birthday on Friday and I should like to have my change of underclothes on that day.” Why not wait until Saturday as usual was her response. I then made a clean breast of the whole matter that I had drifted from the teachings of my parents and grandparents and that I had known it to be right and that it was my privilege and I felt it to be my duty to renew my covenant by baptism. “You shall have your clothes but remember when you return you will not find me here,” and she meant every word she uttered to be verified. This apparently brought us to the brink of disruption but I felt assured that truth is mighty and will prevail. I had become thoroughly convinced that the Lord was directing our course and bringing us to a proper understanding of His marvelous work revealed through the prophet Joseph Smith. “Prayer is the Soul’s sincere desire uttered or unexpressed,” may typify the silent prayer of my heart when I left my home and during those two hours I was absent. There was no one at the public bath which fact I appreciated very much as quiet was needed me at that hour and afforded me the opportunity of offering up my “Soul’s desire” fervently to the throne of grace. That prayer had been heard and answered most wonderfully and upon my return my beloved companion the mother of my children was there to greet me although in tears. The Lord be praised I was not left in despair my trust in the God of our salvation was strengthened and I was conscious as never before that the “Judge of all the earth will do right.” From that very hour our love for each other became brighter than ever and a more loyal helpmate could not be found than sister Bowler was even before it was generally known that she had not rendered full obedience to the requirements of the plan of life and salvation. 0 how pleasant it was to have my wife and family attend meeting with me at that little Coffin Chapel and listen to the words of truth and light by Elder F. M. Lyman and others from Utah. Does the Lord chasten those whom He loves? Must we bear the Cross? Is it necessary that mortals should be thoroughly regenerated? I leave my readers to their own opinion but my testimony is that God will have a tried people to love and serve Him. President Francis M. Lyman was a frequent visitor at our home and was surprised to learn that sister Bowler as he addressed her had not as yet fully embraced the Gospel or been initiated in the Church of Christ which gave opportunity for discussion upon the doctrine and the social condition of the people residing in Utah. Thoroughly convinced or converted to the truth she was baptized by President Lyman on the very spot that I had been and where I offered up that earnest “Soul’s desire” in prayer. “God moves in a mysterious way His wonders to perform” may be attested by all who will seek to do His holy will by rendering obedience to the gospel of our Lord and Saviour. The voice once so hasty then became leading soprano in my choir for I was chosen chorister a position still retained by me after so many years and so many changes. It was then that I composed my first poem, the first stanza runs thus:
Oh, what love and joy and gladness
Reigns within each noble mind
Brightening hope dispelling sadness
Breathing peace to all mankind.
“Pass under the Rod” truer words were never written the full meaning of which cannot be fully realized only by experience. Our son James Samuel was taken suddenly ill and for a week remained unconscious and passed away at midnight. The day following--Sunday, was gloomy indeed to us at No. 2 Henry Street Sneinton, Nottingham, but for the hope we had of meeting our loved one in a happier sphere. His death card still hangs on the wall in our front room, James Samuel Bowler died April 3, 1870 aged three years, 7 months, with the following lines
Your sweet little rose-bud has left you,
To bloom in a holier sphere;
He that gave it in wisdom bereft you;
Then why should you cherish a tear?
The question of interment appeared to be a problem as the Minister at the Sneinton Church at first refused burial because the child had not been baptized in that church but he finally agreed to permit it upon my promise to call at the Vicarage and converse with him upon religion. The child was buried and I kept my word by visiting the Rev. Mr. Wanstall a number of times for discussion which became quite interesting on some points chief among which was the proper mode of baptism he claiming that sprinkling was sufficient while I maintained that immersion was essential according to the scripture. Now my readers listen to this the Rev. Mr. Wanstall Vicar of Sneinton, Nottingham, England kindly informed me that the mode of baptism need not stand in my way of joining the Church of England that if I preferred immersion he would baptize me in that form which I declined and we parted good friends true to our faith. Mr. George Earp came to reside as our next or nearest neighbor and in introducing himself stated that he was an infidel and had traveled all over the civilized world; returning the compliment and giving my name I informed him that I was a Mormon. From that we entered into a discussion that lasted in our spare time for a year or more. Here is portrayed one of those striking examples light and darkness, truth and error that was in evidence on all sides. Mr. Earp would not accept the Bible in any way and especially the seventh verse of the second chapter of Genesis, he said that was too childish and foolish for intelligent people to entertain. I proved to him that all flesh came from mother earth and taking himself as father of a family he must admit scientifically that the earth produced and reproduces everything animate and inanimate, man included and that you, Mr. Earp, when you die will go back to mother earth where you came from. “Why did not the ministers explain it to me in that way,” he said, “for that seems more plain to me than anything I have heard during my life.” I baptized Mr. Earp later and for a time he appeared to be perfectly satisfied with his conversion but his wife who at one time said, “Oh, to think my George is an infidel, I would rather he was a Mormon,” now said, “Oh, to think my George is a Mormon I would rather he was an infidel.” I say Oh, consistency thou art a jewel, more might be added but suffice it to say, Mr. Earp could not stand the test.
Chapter V
We moved from Henry Street to Edwin Street, where there was an open view in front of our house but it was much further from the center of the city, this was in the city of Nottingham, England. Our dear old friend, called Caleb Orton and family had immigrated to Utah and settled in Parowan and a few other members of our branch had gone to the land of Zion as we termed going to Utah. Our meetings were now held in the assembly hail on low pavement and many other changes occurred that need not here be recorded, excepting perhaps that I was sent on a mission to New Lienton where formerly there had been a branch of our church but at this time not a member remained of our faith. There I was the means, in the hands of the Lord to converting at least one family, who later came to Utah. The gospel was being preached as a witness. Many outdoor meetings and district meetings were held. On some of those occasions I was requested to take my choir to furnish music. We went to Mansfield, Eastwood, Hucknal, sheepshed, etc.. It was while in the last named town that Elder Ezra P. Terry said to me, “Brother Bowler when you go to Zion have you any particular choice of location in view? if not he would be pleased to have us go to Hebron where he came from.” Coming events cast their shadows before, as was verified in that instance as will be shown later. The school Centennial was a grand celebration where 35,000 children met in the market place each having a ribbon on their neck with a medal attached with the head of Robert Rakes stamped thereon, and there must have been at least 25,000 people there to witness the gathering and listen to the singing and music. It certainly was the grandest representation of education I ever witnessed and our children will always remember that celebration with delight. I have one of those medals kept as a choice souveniur of that event. I am here proud to record the fact that we had a quartet of voices in our family, myself and wife our eldest son Harry and eldest daughter Ann Elizabeth. With these and later our daughters Kate and Mary Ann whose voices were being well trained we were often called upon to entertain company at home and abroad. Just imagine our delight upon those occasions and the help in my choir which was pronounced the best choir in the European Mission by our President Joseph F. Smith. It may here be noted that those two studies which I was so determined to master in my youth was now very useful to me as chorister and Ward Clerk and very thankful I was that I had been successful thus far with Music and Phonography that was in constant demand and Joseph Hutchinson, that dear soul that filled the place of grandfather, in my childhood and who was always so good and kind throughout, should now pass away in death, blessed be his memory. Brother and sister Charles W. Stayner from Salt Lake City, good kind souls came as visitors to the Nottingham conference for a while and we enjoyed their visits to our home very much, more anon. President Joseph F. Smith, Francis M. Lyman, David C. Dunbar, George L. Farrell and Oscar Hunter were as lights set upon a hill filled with the spirit of their mission, with such men for our leaders no wonder that the spirit of gathering to the mountains of the Lords house was felt and enjoyed. We paid our semiannual visit to the home of my wife’s parents in Leicester, the place of my birth but I must say I had some misgiving as to our reception on that occasion because of the fact that we had not met since my wife had joined our church and I did not know how father Hill might feel about it. But to our surprise nothing could have been more agreeable than our welcome for which I have always been very thankful because that was the last time we were permitted to meet on earth. I should here recount a conversation after the family had retired that night, father Hill introduced the sacred ordinance of baptism as he had read it in the new testament and stated that he had made it a matter of prayer and felt that there was something lacking in the religion he had advocated but who must he apply to as the ministers declared that immersion was not essential but with this conviction he had been alone to the Abbey Meadow and immersed himself. I testified to him that the gospel plan had been restored to earth by and through the prophet Joseph Smith and that the authority to baptize was held only by the holy priesthood. It was midnight when we noticed the time and after a humble prayer we retired to rest feeling that light had been shed upon our understanding. Rumor had it that when once a person was in the confines of Utah there was no possible way of escape, that the destroying angels were on hand to keep them there or put them out of the way. This delusion was believed by many who appeared to be of sound mind. No wonder then that we were considered poor ignorant people when in fact it was themselves that lacked a proper knowledge and understanding of conditions as they were in the land so far away and so little understood by people in general. In refutation of the above rumor I will here state that my uncle Jabez Bowler before mentioned had now returned from Utah safe and sound after traveling in different parts of that country and several others who I could mention but suffice it to say people were not forced to stay in Utah. I was still employed by Mr. Bentley in the same business and there was perfect confidence between us so that although a Mormon I had the respect of those who knew me best. “Gods noblest work is an honest man,” the poet had said and I tried to exemplify that fact in all my dealings, which is no small part of true religion; although lacking by many who make great profession or outside show. My uncle Benjamin Bowler was sorely afflicted by the loss of his wife and daughter, he who had been full of faith and good works apparently was called upon to part with those he loved most dear. This was a test for him that he was hardly prepared to meet and for a time almost threw him off his balance in his ecclesiastical duties. He did not appear to be the same man with whom I had resided in early youth who had stood forth so valiantly in defence of truth and that was a warning to me not to put my trust in man. My sister Mary Ann her daughter Sara Jane and son James Samuel had immigrated to Utah leaving her daughter Elizabeth and son Joseph, the latter in my employ, until another season. Arthur Winter, his mother and two sisters joined our church and became zealous members in our branch. Arthur was a student of phonography and though it was unknown to him at that time was preparing to fill an honorable position in the presidents office in Salt Lake City. We held our meetings in the Saint Ann’s Street Chapel and although but few in number we certainly enjoyed the gifts of the gospel to a marked degree. When conference drew near my choir devoted much attention to our preparation for that occasion but just one week before the day set and advertised by posters in the city I was taken ill and a quinsy almost choked me. There I was on thursday night in that condition and so much attention to our preparation for so much depended upon me three days hence with my choir so well prepared if I could not be with them. I sent for President Francis M. Lyman and he administered to me and before he left my home I was enabled to eat a bowl of bread and milk, my quinsy was gone. Our conference was held in the Assembly Hall, the largest hall in the city and my choir certainly did their part grand as a number of people expressed it.
Mr. Long, Unitarian minister, was so elated with an anthem we rendered that he requested a copy and I told him to call at my home in a few days and I would have the four parts prepared for him. When I presented it to him he stated that he had been to America but not to Utah and that the anthem we sang on Sunday sounded better than anything he ever heard. My sister’s son and daughter joined their mother in St. George Utah and a few other good faithful members of the Nottingham branch immigrated to Utah but still the good work was spreading far and wide not withstanding the opposition manifest against us as a church. My brother George was now a young man and had been a member of our family several years, he and our son Harry working with me in the shop. George was a temperance boy and on one of our trips to Leicester, the place of our birth, he became acquainted with a young lady that later became his wife. We took a trip to London the great city where I was an idol of my aunt Page and where my uncle Page once denounced mormonism and all who adhered to it. We visited the principal places of attraction, St. Paul's, the tower, the London Bridge, the House of Parliament, etc., and so my wife was being introduced to changing scenes preparatory to the great change that awaited us in the near future. When at our priesthood meeting at the conference house 39 Sabina St. Nottingham October 17--l880, I received a telegram from the Liverpool office stating that the ship Wisconsin would leave Port on Saturday the 23 inst., for New York and for us to leave Nottingham not later than Friday the 22, three days in which to communicate that intelligence to my father who resided in Hyson Green, to our sister Ann Wallis, in Leicester and all we loved far and near. To dispose of our belongings, the contents of six rooms well furnished, such short notice meant a considerable sacrifice in real value. There was also my business interest to be closed and debts to be collected by some good friend and in this way Tuesday was occupied and arrangements made as well as could be expected all things considered. My father then past sixty-one years of age appeared most affected for although he had taught me in youth that it was right for the Saints to gather to the headquarters of our church yet when we were about to part never to meet again on earth, for so it proved to be, he wept silent tears at parting. Our brother and sister Wallis seemed quite sanguine that we should return and promised to assist us to do so should we find conditions contrary to our anticipation while others encouraged and urged us to trust in the Lord for all that was to come. The hymn composed by G. Careless, “Yes my native land I love thee, can I leave thee, far in distant lands to dwell?” may be applied here. All who have left all for the gospel, and there are legions, know what is meant by leaving all that had been near and dear to them on earth. There was a moment when my wife questioned the wisdom of almost giving away what we had worked so hard for and it certainly was a question viewed from a worldly standpoint, but we reasoned the matter with our president, Oscar Hunter and decided to go with that company. We numbered ten in family as follows: myself and wife, Harry, Ann Elizabeth, John Henry, Kate, Mary Ann, Florence Matilda, Walter Wallace and Francis Joseph, the proverbial 2-4-6-8- so often used by their mother in counting them on our journey. Friday morning , dawned bright and fair and bidding adieu to our loved ones we left Nottingham on the 7:35 train for Liverpool, where we were met by Brother and Sister Charles N. Stayner with whom we spent many happy hours in Nottingham and who on this Occasion also proved themselves to be the type of friends in very deed. They voluntarily took my family, excepting myself and Harry to their hotel while we two looked after our baggage and I went to the office to arrange for our voyage. My reception at the Liverpool office was certainly a surprise to me when my name was mentioned there came forth a corps of Elders to greet me and wish me Gods speed with that spark of brotherly love that only true servants of God can enjoy. I ordered our outfit but in the hurry I neglected to sign as steward of our company, a position President John Nicholson had asked me to occupy in our company across the ocean. At midnight Brother and Sister Stayner brought my family to the vessel and saw them safe on board; a kindness I shall never forget and when President Nicholson called over the names of those having ouffits for the voyage my name was called twice. I asked him if there were any who had no outfit and when he said there were I told him to give the other one to any who needed it, but said this one is more costly than the one you ordered and was sent from the Elders at the office--so thankful was I for the many acts of kindness received that I refused to take more. But little sleep was enjoyed that night by our company that numbered three-hundred-fifty-eight souls but the spirit of fond anticipation was manifest in the greetings of people who had never met before. There were also a number of returning missionaries with us to join in thanks and praise to our Heavenly Father that they were now returning to their home and loved ones in the land of Zion after devoting more than two years in the cause of truth. I tried to be as helpful to President Nicholson as possible in caring for so large a body of people with ways strange to each other and tons of baggage to be taken care of and when all was arranged in order the signal was given and we weighed anchor at 12:20 p.m. on Saturday October 23, 1880. When we arrived at Queens Town Ireland quite a number of immigrants were taken on board in the fore-part of the vessel and it was then discovered that I had not signed as a steward of our company. President Nicholson came hurriedly and told me that the Captain sent for me at once. This is what he said, What is your name, I told him and he gruffly stated your name is not on our book, the ship’s register, and we must put you off at once. This is when President Nicholson explained the matter satisfactorily to him, that I did not understand the rules but that I should act as steward of our company under his direction. Again the gruff voice asked me if I had been to sea before and almost before I could answer he dismissed me by saying go to work and the ship glided away as usual. When I informed my family of the circumstance and we realized the situation more fully we praised God from whom all blessings flow and all went well with us until in mid ocean when a terrible storm commenced to rage which continued three days. Every member of our company were sea-sick excepting Elder Nixon and myself and instead of our usual evening meeting with singing and prayer could be heard moaning in all the berths. On Sunday at midnight as I sat with one arm holding on the pillar and the other holding our little Francis Joseph on my knee the head steward came and told me in no uncertain terms to put that kid in bed and come to business, which I did and he told me then that the ship was taking in three feet an hour and that unless the break could be mended we should have to lower the boats. How long we sat waiting I cannot tell but I know that if ever I prayed in earnest it was at that time and if ever I thanked my heavenly father for his mercies was when we heard the pump commence to work again. Now my readers please take note on Monday morning it seemed as though I must heave up Jonah, and I got the bucket for that purpose but at that very moment a power unseen took me into the middle of the floor and the seat I had occupied a moment before and the match-wood bucket too. Tons of trunks and baggage lay there in a heap that had broken loose during the heavy storm but not the slightest warning had been given to any one except me, as here stated, I was not sea-sick. We learned on arriving at New York that a ship right behind us went down with all on board but all were well with us and our prayers ascended to the throne of grace for our safe arrival on land. Upon reaching Castle-Garden home changes were made especially the changing of money into American dollars and cents which but few understood even after the change was made but we had plenty of time to talk matters over as we stayed there all that day. What are we waiting for was a question asked many times but no one seemed to know and we rather enjoyed the change of scenery until evening when Brother Emmanuel Wooley suggested trying to get outside and have a look at New York City. Without consulting our people we did go and purchased a few things that we thought would be necessary but was gone longer than we intended and when we returned there was not a soul to be seen. Now what shall we do said Brother Wooley my wife has my ticket, and I had all our tickets, and there we were not knowing where our company had gone. We were not long in doubt however as Elder George Crane appeared and motioned for us to hurry that way which we did to find that the boat had arrived to the port to take us across the river to the Pennsylvania Railroad. Again we had the pleasure of witnessing the fatherly consideration of President John Nicholson when he said, “Brother Bowler you and your family will occupy the car with the returning missionaries and no matter where we change, night or day you may need no further advice as I shall be busy all the way through.” That surely was an act to feel greatful for with a family of ten in a strange country and so late in the season, and as a further consideration Sister Grey was to accompany as midwife, in case my wife should need her services on the journey. Was not that brotherly love in very deed? With our well trained voices we accompanied each other and endeavored to reciprocate by singing the songs of Zion in which the Elders heartily joined, “We’ll make the air with music ring, shout praises to our God and King” that had so often been sung while in Nottingham was now realized more fully as we journeyed westward to the land of our choice and the home of the Saints. The horse-shoe-bend at Pittsburgh was an object of curiosity where one end of our train appeared to be nearly opposite the other and that abase with smoke reminded one of the lower regions the ministers used to talk to us about when I was a boy. It might have appeared rather amusing to a casual observer the way my wife kept track of our children with her count of 2-4-6-8- at every change. The most awfully grand sight I ever witnessed was the prairie fire for although at a distance it seemed as though the whole world was in flames and we were hastening into the conflagration especially so when the night was very dark or the wind blew in an opposite direction. The methodical life in England had nothing in comparison with such scenes as witnessed in the transition from one country to another to say nothing of the objects of interest pointed out to us by the returning missionaries and many stories told and incidents recounted of the trials and hardships experienced by those noble pioneers who took their weary march over nearly the same ground we were then gliding over so smoothly and rapidly but the prairie fire was to me the all absorbing object that my mind dwelt upon for a short time, and indeed it has appeared in my dream often since. Occasionally we saw a real Indian with garb and feathers something similar to pictures printed in books, but those we saw there were alive and moving along. The wide expanse of country and traveling day and night brought to my mind the first trip I made on the railroad and the dog cart journey in the year 1852, only fifteen miles all together and it took about five hours to make the trip. A wonderful trip and a wonderful change to be sure and yet everything appeared to come about quite natural to be sure. It seemed as though we were never going to find a real stopping place before we reached Chicago and even when we did reach there, there was but a very short time to look around and purchase a few things that we might need on our further journey westward. Our next change was one never to be forgotten by me, at least. No large city there to attract our attention, just the railroad station and a few houses was all that reminded us of civilization when we reached there on Saturday night, but we soon discovered that we must stay there indefinitely. There was something wrong about the cars not being ready or not enough of them ready for our use to proceed further, nor did we leave there until Monday morning. I said, “never to be forgotten” for the reason that during that Sunday we had to stay I never heard so much profanity and abuse as when a few men approached me and stated that they had just returned from Utah. Oh, yes they knew all about Brigham Young and the whole click, of Mormons, and in fact what they did not know I don’t want anyone to try to find out, they tried to persuade me to try and turn my face homeward as they said while I had a chance for if we went any further “it was all up” with us. Not very encouraging to be sure if true, but was it? I did not seek their company or advice but as I walked around they followed me and as before stated I never heard such blasphemy in all my life, and I certainly had heard many rash speeches concerning the people commonly called Mormons, nearly all my days. I reasoned this way have I not associated with this people from childhood, my parents and grandparents before me, do I not know that their character in general has been grossly and I must say cruelly misrepresented and here when I supposed I was free from slanderous reports I am assailed more shamefully than ever, if ever I realized that the two influences were operating, it was then that I needed to be on my guard constantly and take warning by what I might meet with from such people as had once been friendly to those who they now spoke so much evil about, again “consistency thou art a jewel,” and man is man’s worst enemy. The gospel of light and truth is the only means of salvation to the human family helped me to say as did our Savior, get thee behind me. I assure my readers that I kept pretty close to my family during the remainder of that day and until we left that spot.
We crossed the river early on Monday morning and stopped a short time at Omaha and there purchased some provisions and then proceeded on our way toward the rocky mountains, the place we had heard, read, and sung so much while in our native land. Where the Saints of God have met, and where we fondly anticipated meeting them. One sad incident occurred on the way in the death of an infant whose father was in Denver and where the fond mother was hastening to meet him. Here again President Nicholson showed a fatherly care and consideration by having a coffin made so that the child might be taken to her father. Are acts like these not worthy of note, is it not a denial to the lies above reported? That poor mother could not speak or understand the American language but was cared for as well as she could have been in her own home and country and she met her husband in Denver with the best of care and the sympathy of every soul in our company. The scenery from Denver changed considerably surpassing all imagination and so we speeded from the state of Colorado, Wyoming into Utah. Mountains everywhere so strange and yet so enchanting that we sang, “Oh, Ye Mountains High” as we imagined it while singing that favorite hymn in other countries. Thus we speeded on to Ogden, Utah where we arrived on Friday afternoon and we were met at the station by our old time President Joseph Morley and his good wife who took us to their home for entertainment and a happy meeting that was to be sure during the short stay before our train proceeded on to Salt Lake City, that night.
Chapter VI
I have never returned to Ogden but the memory of those good people will always be green in my mind. Our train stopped at a small station and a lady came in and introduced herself as Mrs. Bowler formerly from England and urged us to stop and make our home there which in justice to others and to keep my word with them I could not do but I promised to write to her when we were settled. She left the car with tears in her eyes stating that she had read our names in the Deseret News and was in hopes that some of her kin-folk were coming to live near her. We did not know the name of that place and when we tried to get in touch with them later no one seemed to know even the name of the person or the place we referred to. On our arrival at Salt Lake City that night no one was there to meet us as they had been informed that the train would not come in till the next morning. This was our first great disappointment as we did not know where to go and our eight children were sleepy, but by watching a group of people standing there I concluded they were in the same condition as ourselves and I said to my wife we will go where they go and so we passed the night in the tithing house as best we could, but even that was better than thousands of others who came to this country in early days. On Saturday morning Bishop Hunter sent for me in his office and informed me that he had a letter from Bishop Terry stating that he could not meet us in Salt Lake City as he intended but would meet us at Milford. Another disappointment but as I handed Bishop Hunter a letter from his son Oscar who was president of the Nottingham conference another change took place. That was all the introduction necessary for a fatherly clasp of hand and an invitation for my family to make their home there until we could do better or go to Milford. Early on Sunday morning many of our former friends with whom we had shared the blessings of the gospel in our native land came to greet us and invite us to their homes and truly a very pleasant day was spent with them. Every inducement was offered to us to make our home in the city of the Saints but had I not before leaving Nottingham promised Elder Zera P. Terry that we would go to Hebron? I could not make any other promise at least we must go on until that promise was kept in honor to all concerned. Elder William Brimhall from Springville who had so often visited at our home in Nottingham and the good kind Sister Groosback of Salt Lake City especially urged us to stay with the best of promises for our future but to all I very kindly answered I must keep my promise with Elder Terry. So kindly were we treated that blessed Sunday that we really had forgotten for the time the pressing invitation of Bishop Hunter to spend the day at his home which we regretted very much when too late in the evening to make our way there. We were forceably reminded however early on Monday morning when the bishop came to his office. I tried to explain to him the cause but he felt bad about it all the same. Brother and Sister Hardy guardians in my youth with whom I resided so many years and who taught me my trade showed the parental affection as formerly. No wonder that such a good impression was made upon our minds the few days we dwelt in Salt Lake City. When leaving his office on Monday evening Bishop Hunter took each of my family by the hand and gave them a father’s blessing, a blessing that has been realized in the years that have passed. Never can I forget how strictly he charged the attendant to prepare provisions to last us a week and to be sure and have the carriage ready in good time to meet the train early in the morning. At the depot we met Elder Nelson Empy who had been President of the Nottingham conference and again we were urged to stay where so many of our former acquaintances resided but our arrangements were now complete and we bid adieu to our many dear friends for the present at least. Milford was the southwestern terminus of the railroad at that time and although but little more than two hundred miles from Salt Lake City we did not reach there until midnight and was told that they had some difficulty with the engine during the day. That was a bitter cold night the 16th of November 1880 in a strange place not a light to be seen and our children asleep. We asked the conductor the privilege of staying in the car until morning and he told us that could not be done because he had to take the train on to Frisco that night. That was our first introduction to that mode of travel and so far from home and so near the wilderness but help was at hand in a form altogether unexpected. A voice rang out in the still night air, is that you Brother Bowler. The voice sounded quite familiar to be sure and there I recognized Brother William Ashworth from Beaver who had come to meet his cousin from England. Our feelings may be better imagined than expressed at the sudden turn of events and the firm grip of a hand as true as steel in the bonds of friendship and brotherly love. I mention names of persons who were well known to verify my statements and also to acknowledge our appreciation of their acts of kindness to us this being one of them. Brother Ashworth realized our condition that night and proved himself equal to the occasion by escorting us to the only hotel available and would have paid our bill--more anon. November 17, 1880 presented the strangest aspect we had ever seen and one never to be forgotten by myself and family the open desert. Brother Aaron Huntsman came forward and introduced himself as the man sent by Bishop Terry to convey us to Hebron. We soon discovered that he had one team and wagon and there being ten of us with two or three trunks we naturally wondered where he could crowd us in. We did not remain long in doubt however as Brother Maudsley a total stranger agreed to take our trunks to Cedar City and leave them there until we could have them forwarded, another kind act in a strange country, but that being fifty miles out of our way we did not receive them until late the next spring. We started our hundred mile journey that afternoon, found ourselves on the open desert with nothing in view but sage brush and space, a wild appearing aspect to be sure to person that had been born and raised in a city with as many inhabitants as there were in Utah Territory at that date. Brother Huntsman and myself and our oldest son had a good walk before the sun went down and then what happened? Oh, well the team stopped and the harness was taken off and turned out to pick what bit of grass there was, but were we to do the same? There was no house in sight, no fire, no shelter, no nothing, what then were we going to do? We were quite tired and rather anxious for a good soft bed but by that time we discovered a smoke near by and were introduced to our bill of fare or to be plain about matter, our entertainment for the night. I recall how sick my wife was after drinking tea cooked on the sage bush fire while sitting on, not a nice easy chair but a quilt laid on the ground. Our bedroom that night was about one hundred miles square with no one near to dispute our rights of spreading our quilts in either direction. We retired quite early and might have enjoyed a good sound slumber had not the denizens of the wild west aroused us and brought us up standing--hair and all. Something new but not called for. I suppose we imagined there were ten thousand evil spirits within one thousand yards of us. Goodbye sleep for that night although Brother Huntsman tried to reassure us that it was only a few coyotes barking. The second night we camped at hot springs the only house we saw on our journey a family of foreigners keeping a kind of small store there made it appear a little more like real life to us. We were still on the lookout for any and all kinds of objects that might be presented but nothing more ferocious appeared than wild horses and antelope, of which there were plenty at that date 1880. We were becoming somewhat acquainted with that mode of travel but Brother Huntsman not having the best of health and the slow way of traveling made us a little uneasy for fear a storm might overtake us so far away from shelter and we had always been accustomed to going by railroad. I was or thought I was a good walker by the time we reached Antelope Springs on the third night, about mid-way across the desert where we were greeted by a lone sheep herder which seemed to break the monotony and afforded a brief rest. It certainly was amusing to see our large family accept an invitation to join or form a company around the campfire that night and partake of the mutton broth as though they had never had a good meal in their lives. They declared that it was the best they had ever tasted. We had to smile at that remark because we knew that at home they would have objected to that kind of fare entirely but they romped around and appeared to enjoy their freedom to the limit while we had a good talk with sociable friend the herder. Upon retiring as before there was a repetition of sounds as on the two nights previous, only in fact they were louder and closer, but we were brave enough by this time to stay under our quilts, if not calm enough to close our eyes in slumber. We read of the shepherds watching their flocks by night in far off Judea Plain and had always pictured them as having habitations at least when off duty, having no idea of the reality of such conditions until on the desert wild ourselves. Saturday November 19, 1880 dawned, here let me state however that it was the thirty-eighth anniversary of the birth of my wife and under present conditions a day of some anxiety on our part as our son was born less than two months later. That day was full of anticipation of reaching our destination ere another dawn. We started quite early and as the team neared their home they made better time by far than the days previous so that a little after dark we stopped to water the team at the Holt Reservoir about twelve miles from Hebron, a Bible name and the end of our journey. Several times during those three or four hours the question was asked, how far is it now, oh, not far Brother Huntsman would say and then some of the children would sing again and so the time seemed to pass with them but not so with my brave hearted wife who had sat cramped in that position so long, too long for any person in her condition but the time was near when we would have a change and rest and that brightened her hope and stimulated her to endure to the end. When the team finally stopped and we heard the word here we are we naturally looked for lights but there were not any to be seen and we wondered yes wondered.
Chapter VII
No one to greet us and it being too dark to discern the outline of the town and being anxious for a rest we made hasty preparation for repose by spreading quilts on the floor and our children were soon snoring to beat the band. The first object to meet our gaze at early dawn was an Indian Wigwam right opposite our window, an object harmless enough in itself we learned afterwards, but enough to create surprise, if not alarm for the moment. We were not left long to ponder however before we saw occupants emerge from their curiously constructed abode and move around quite unconcerned about our arrival in that vicinity. Brother John Pulsipher was an early caller and bespoke for us a hearty welcome to our new home. “Welcome Home,” was his salutation which almost conveyed the idea that we had been away and just returned. Thus it was, as has been before mentioned that in every place we were greeted as though we had been of one common family instead of foreign birth. My readers may possibly have wondered why we had ventured out so far from our sphere of action and been so persistent in going there despite the many inducements offered us of an alluring nature. The explanation my good reader may be given in a few words, thus Elder Zera P. Terry came as a missionary to Nottingham, England and upon one occasion when I was requested to take my choir to a district meeting held in Sheepshed, some twenty miles distant Elder Terry broached the subject of my family moving to Hebron his birth place stating that my services were greatly needed there and I came as shoe maker and music teacher. Intending to go to Zion and taking Elder Terry at his word I promised to go to Hebron to make our future home and having made that promise I held it sacred of fulfillment. We left all that had been dear to us by the ties of nature, crossed the ocean, the American Continent, the Escalate Desert and now we were in the last settlement, West in Utah Territory. There were sixteen families in Hebron at that time who appeared just as happy and contented as though they had everything they desired and here again early impressions were made that are not forgotten. To connect this narration “Welcome Home,” it is only just to say that “Uncle John” as most of the people called him was a leading light in that community and therefore spoke with authority and our conversation became mutual so much so that for a short time we almost forgot that we were strangers in a strange land. Promptly on time the bell rang for Sunday School the sound of which was not as familiar to us as the chimes we had so often heard, nevertheless it was the call to sacred duty and thither we went. As might have been expected nearly all the inhabitants were there assembled and Bishop Thomas S. Terry suggested that we hold regular Sabbath services this morning instead of Sunday School, this meeting with the approval of all present, Brother J. S. P. Bowler was introduced to address the Saints for the first time in the land of Zion. Never did I enjoy occupying that position or feel to speak more freely than on that occasion which reminded me of the parting words of President Oscar Hunter when leaving Nottingham that the spirit of my calling would rest mightily upon me in the midst of the people. I was convinced that I had been called to fill a mission of usefulness in that the spirit of my calling, in that out of the way place; a feeling that seemed to be shared by all present that bright Sabbath morning. Brotherly love was manifested in that throng of sincere worshipers and it was made apparent that the gospel was the tie that binds in the church of Christ no matter where convened. The name Hebron was taken from the Bible where father Abraham dwelt in peace if not like seclusion and the hymn “Rejoice, Rejoice Oh Israel, and let your joys abound the voice of God shall reach you wherever you are found” appeared very appropriate to the surroundings. When Bishop Terry expressed the desire that I be engaged to teach music, assist in Sabbath School and Mutual Improvement Association I realized more fully that our course had been directed aright. This had been my calling for a number of years and nothing could have given me more pleasure than to mingle with the youth of Zion and help to train their eager minds. In December it was our quarterly conference in Saint George, and we were invited to accompany Bishop Terry and others who were going to attend. My sister Mary Ann and family who had come out a year or so previous were residing there and we were anxious to meet them there. The first night we stayed and held meeting in the home of Brother David Canfield in Fort Hamblin, or known as the Mountain Meadows. Meetings held in those small settlements were fully appreciated by the few residents and on that occasion I listened to the liveliest sermon by Jacob Truman that I ever heard. On the next day we passed alone dwelling and upon inquiring concerning who the occupants were was agreeably informed that it was the home of Brother and Sister Henry Chadburn, a man I had known so well in Nottingham England but it being rather late we could not stop that evening but must be sure to do so on our return as the very name of that dear brother was to me like rain upon a parched desert. We enjoyed a spiritual feast in conference and had a good visit with my sister and family and saw the temple, place we used to sing so much about at home. “Lo the temple long expected in Saint George shall stand, by Gods faithful Saints erected here in Dixie Land,” but this was a realization of former anticipation and we rejoiced to know that we were privileged to view the scene before us. We also had the pleasure of meeting a number of old time acquaintances my teacher in Sabbath School, Sister Angus, also John Carter who had recently been to England on a mission who appeared delighted to meet us there, also Charles Smith once President of Conference in my youth. Taking all in all we rejoiced exceedingly. On our return trip we called to see Brother Henry Chadburn and it would have done his mother good to see our meeting. We laughed and wept alternately and how long that continued I cannot tell but we were reminded that the best of friends must part however we had a most enjoyable time. Happier moments were never spent on earth, true genuine friendship after an absence of a few short years. Arriving home we found preparations being made for the Christmas holidays and for a settlement so completely isolated the anniversary of the birth of Christ was celebrated in right good Christian form which lasted the entire week, including New Years Day. Each evening my family were requested to entertain with their musical voices to the delight of all present as we were well prepared to do justice to the occasion and thus a mutual enjoyment began. January 15, 1881 marked the birth of our only child born in America. Another tie that binds and we named him George Hebron a name that may always remind him of the place of his birth and of our adoption in the new world. Then the rainy season commenced and we soon began to think it would never quit or that it might be a repetition of the deluge at the time of Noah’s flood but time only tells. Music hath its charms, was verified during those wintery months affording me much pleasure in training the musical voices for surely they had good natural voices but needed training and they were anxious to learn so that they could join in singing with the choir. I may here state that this was a stepping stone to what Bishop Terry termed, “future greatness,” by the fact that three of those pupils later became choir leaders in Utah and Nevada, should that calling be considered great is of course a matter of opinion but useful to say the least. Thus the winter of 1881 sped by as pleasantly as circumstances would permit my dear wife playing a noble part under those strange conditions, and so far from the line of direct communication. Mr. Peck taught school that winter and at the approach of spring the general aspects appeared brighter and called for active operations for the farmers in the field and on the range after cattle. Oh, how I longed to join them in their regular pursuits and occupations for it was then that I began to comprehend my lack of knowledge of what was plainly before me. This was a strange avocation, after a life spent indoors but the whole universe appeared inviting me to put forth a helping hand and I looked on almost dismayed for the condition presented that I had arrived at the crossroads, and for the moment I could not decide which land mark or guide post I should follow. Our two oldest boys had begun to make themselves useful in various ways either carrying pony mail, herding sheep or any other occupation compatible with their age or capacity and were adapting themselves to present conditions very agreeably and satisfactorily to all concerned. The 24th of July 1881 was celebrated with high honors and a number of people from other towns joined heartily in the celebration not forgetting to tell, us English, people that their ancestors sent Johnnie Bull home to mind his own business, of course we accepted this with a balance of patriotic fervor and tried to appear as circumspect as possible knowing that it was really not intended for us personally. When that spell of National zeal subsided and the holiday was over I was quietly informed that a tannery had been started in Cedar City, Iron County, some fifty miles east and that a shoemaker was needed there to complete arrangements for business. I mentioned that fact to Bishop Terry and he told me that he intended to visit with his daughter residing there and that I might accompany him and ascertain what the prospects were. I had a good kit of tools and I at once accepted the invitation feeling assured that the way was open for me to the kind of employment most suitable and under present conditions most profitable. I may here describe the line of travel from Hebron to Cedar City at that time so very different to what it is later, as we went up Pinto Canyon, past Iron Town. There was no town of course there had been a few houses there when an attempt had been made to make Iron. Over Iron Mountain, and that truly was properly named and may prove a wonder to future generations then onward to Leaches Spring noted as herd-ground where we camped that night and where again I was regaled with those melodious sounds from the midnight howling coyote. Here I should refer to a remark I made while crossing the desert where Enterprise now stands. If that were in England there would be a large city, the foundation is there at this writing.
Chapter VIII
Why they named the city Cedar was more than I could understand, a quaint old town appeared to me more suitable, but the Cedar part was true to nature all right as there was an abundance of that growth of tree visible in all directions. To be sure everything and everybody was strange to me but I soon discovered that there was an enterprising people, a whole community awaiting the time and opportunity for further development that was sure to follow. Arrangements for employment were agreeable and I was to have a room and board with Sister Haight but I must wait a few days for a bench and a few fixtures to be made suitable for my workshop and Bishop Terry returned home leaving me one of the loneliest mortals this side of the promised land, or paradise. I learned that Parowan was only about twenty miles further on the road and that gave me what I considered a favorable opportunity to visit my old time neighbor Caleb Orton who I heard resided there. I hired a horse and, “Oh, my that ride,” hours in the saddle for although the road was fairly good the journey was experience although, altogether new to me so that when I did arrive I was quite easily induced to rest for a few days. Brother Orton I found in sorrow as his dear wife had passed to the great beyond recently so our time was spent principally in talking over events of our past life not forgetting the object of our coming to Zion as we always termed coming to Utah. I stayed in Parowan three days but did not make many new acquaintances other than the Orton families, there being four branches residing there, brothers and cousins. Upon my return, again, that ride! And I will here state that about half way I met an Indian, real live one and to make me realize that he knew I was trying to get out of his way, which I certainly was, he crossed the road in front of me but just at that we spied a coyote and he chased after it while I rode on as though quite unconcerned. But I surely was watchful if not fearful that day. Yes upon my return I was agreeably surprised to find that Bishop Arthur had made all necessary arrangements for me to commence business in connection with the Co-op Store and Tannery. The next day being Sunday I enjoyed a much needed rest. On Monday morning I was quite busy in my small room and being supplied with necessary material I felt more at home soon had orders for boots and shoes and repairs of various kinds. Bishop Arthur proved himself to be a genuine friend to me a stranger and I shall always remember him as such for when an offer was made to me to take a neat little home if my family would come and reside there he encouraged me with promises of assistance if needed. For three months I enjoyed the pure mountain breeze, the quiet surroundings and the confidence of the people, but sickness in my family called me home before final arrangements could be made for us to make our permanent home in Cedar City. Good Sister Haight had been like a mother to me. Bishop Lunt, Henry Leigh and Joseph Coslet also were as brothers during my brief stay and when I had to leave I could hear them remark, Brother Bowler we had contemplated having you stay and make your home here but as sickness has intervened we hope you may be permitted to return in the near future. Before leaving however I was called in consultation with the leading authorities and the proposition they laid before me was I might take sufficient leather and other material to work up and pay them in boots and shoes as I had been doing. Very different this from those false predictions of those apostates in Council Bluffs and thousands of other people that I had heard tell of the terrible condition that prevailed in Utah and how a stranger was mistreated and robbed. When my son arrived with the wagon three hundred dollars worth of material was loaded and God bless you Brother Bowler was the parting expression from all present. Words that have found lodgement in my very soul. I hastened homeward only stopping to feed the team and take a short rest as at times they appeared tired. Upon our arrival I found my dear wife somewhat improved in health and delighted to see me looking so well, that was a hearty reception to be sure and upon telling my family of the kind treatment I had received while in Cedar City we all rejoiced exceedingly to realize that such good noble minded people were to be met with. Needless to state that I was soon engaged in cutting and arranging boots and shoes uppers for goods to be sent to Cedar City as per agreement and although rather cramped for room in the carpenter shop of Brother Don G. Robbins I was progressing fairly well for about a month when the greatest disaster of my life occurred. Early one Sunday morning I was startled by the cry of fire , fire, and discovered the shop in flames with no water at hand so that although every man in town was soon there to render assistance nothing could be done to save anything at all. Never can I forget that Sabbath morning. My tools were gone and also the material brought from Cedar City which fairly left me as it appeared helpless in a strange country, nothing was left that I could use or make use of, all was destroyed both mine and that of Brother Robbins. If ever I felt discouraged it was then and I felt as though I should lose my senses. Oh, my poor head seemed to burst as the sight of all future prospects seemed to fade and I shed bitter tears before relief came. Though one hundred miles from the railroad and fifty miles from Saint George there was a telegraph station in Hebron, Brother Daniel Tyler in charge and the news was spread far and wide. Here again I had the pleasure of learning that I was not entirely left or forgotten when help was needed for our dear old friends, Apostle F. M. Lyman, in Salt Lake City, Bishop George L. Farrell in Smithfield, William Ashworth, superintendant of the Beaver factory and other well known brethren read the news and proved themselves true brothers in very deed. This was a source of much encouragement to realize that I was associated with such noble minded people far and near and proved conclusively that the members of our church are far above the estimate placed upon people called Mormons by the world in general. A better lesson could not have been given to my family in their youth to show them where “True christians live, and know what souls are worth,” even in that isolated condition. I was engaged to teach school that winter and I here state truthfully that as a family we appreciated the fact of being connected with a band of true worshipers of the God of our salvation enjoying the spirit of the true and everlasting gospel revealed through the Prophet Joseph Smith. The confidence reposed in me by the parents and the love shown by the children in school, music class Sunday School and Mutual Improvement Association was to me a greater joy than anything on earth could have been in any other position. Thus we find that mans extremity is Gods opportunity, and the promise although a test and it certainly had been a test had the desired effect of knitting us more closely together in the bonds of brotherly love and fellowship thankful to our heavenly father for his love and mercy shown on that occasion, as on others also. We received hopeful encouragement from Cedar City which was to us more than words can express because we had been troubled in mind to know how we could meet our obligation there, more anon. The Christmas holiday was enjoyed much as usual, considerable call for musical talent as the school children were advancing in that art very nicely and enjoyed taking an active part to the delight of all concerned. Our boy George Hebron was now a year old and a fine promising child to be sure, pet of the home to be sure, and all our family enjoying the best of health made it plain that, there is joy in every sound when there’s love at home. Thus the winter of 1881-82 passed very agreeably along. Something useful, helpful in many ways every day so that we became more and more reconciled and accustomed to the new conditions by which we were surrounded and we so reported to our relations and friends in England and other places. As spring approached we began to consider what would be best for us to do as my tools were burned and none to replace them in that out of the way place and being convinced that I could not adapt myself to farming or looking after cattle as the men did there so we finally agreed that I had better write to Brother William Hardy of whom I have written as the man who at least partly learned me my trade in England and now resided in Salt Lake City. We received a favorable reply to my letter and when school closed we began to make necessary preparations for our journey and as Sister Pulsipher wished to care for three of our children, Harry, Ann Elizabeth, and Florence Matilda we agreed that they should stay until a suitable home could be procured for them with us. Brother John and George Laub were preparing to go to Milford and having no conveyance of our own we gladly accepted their offer to go with them and a parting that was to be sure with our children and the school children and our dear friends and neighbors. The hundred miles across the desert did not then appear quite as strange as when we first made the trip nor was it under as favorable conditions, especially with my dear wife, it being spring time instead of November so we made good time arriving at Antelope Spring about dark. The first night we spread our quilts, had a cold bite and retired. But not to a quiet sleep because just as I was dozing with my head close to our “grub box” something tried to raise the lid. This appeared to be more sociable than welcome and I sat and watched a while not caring to tell anyone of our hungry visitor. I don’t know how long we must have slept when the same howling as on the first trip bid sleep be gone, for the present at least. We lay and talked over the difference between our bed chamber there and those in England. Brother John and George Laub were two of the most sociable men we had the pleasure of traveling with and we were happy to reach Milford in good time feeling very thankful for the good health and many blessings enjoyed since last we saw the railroad. Only eight in number now we found accomodation a little more handy but our thoughts were almost constantly reverting back to those we had left behind, not doubting for one moment that they were in good care with the good people in Hebron. Morning dawned rather cloudy and after a hasty meal we felt prepared to continue our journey with hopes as firm as the hills around us for our future. With a hearty handshake and God bless you Brother and Sister Bowler we parted from those two good brethren and entered the train then nearly ready to take us to the city of the Saints, as Salt Lake City was known by a good many at that
Chapter IX
We arrived in Salt Lake City before April conference where we again met with great kindness. It was snowing as heavily as I ever saw it. We made our home with Brother and Sister Hardy for a few days and then rented a very comfortable home which was owned by Brother White in the 17th Ward for $15.00 a month. I found employment in the Z. C. M. I. shoe factory and all appeared favorable with us more so than we might have expected all things considered for which we certainly felt very thankful. There appeared to have been quite a change made in the city during the eighteen months we had been down South but changes were the order of the day anyway everywhere. We soon adapted ourselves to this change and having a good size lot we raised a good garden and quite a sample of good fruit which was much help with our large family. In due time I was agreeably surprised to receive a letter from Cedar City informing me that the debt for the material that was burned in Hebron was canceled and wishing us all the good we could desire. Another noble act by those good people with whom I had associated but briefly and which proof gave denial to the false rumors abroad in the world. This took from my mind a weight of care and anxiety and placed therein a debt of gratitude for all concerned, God bless them forever. The first change of note was when the factory closed indefinitely for the installation of new machinery which of course threw all hands out of employment for the time being anyway. But for me another door opened immediately in the person of Brother James Heathcote who was married that day and wished to take a honey moon trip for a month, would I kindly fill his place at the Depot until he returned? Of course I accepted the kind offer readily although I did not like night work but that was no time for choosing, for me anyway with a family like ours. Seven p. m. until seven a. m. was the hours but I could do that better than to work on Sunday, something I had never done before, but there was no other alternative but to comply with the rule. At the end of the month James Heathcote returned and of course I supposed my work at the Depot was ended but the foreman told me he had a job for me if I wished to take a place as I suited him. He would much rather employ married men than single ones because they were much more dependable. That morning as I sat at the breakfast table a messenger came to tell me that I was wanted at the factory. Here I was informed that four of us had been chosen to start the new arrangement. Thus I had the choice of two positions. I accepted the one in the factory as most suitable to me at that time. When all was in working order and the hands returned to work a new system was adopted that of doing the work in separate branches, the machinery doing the finishing part. Brother John Butler came from Nottingham, England, and made his home with us. I secured employment for him in the factory, he was one of my men working with me before we came to Utah and he stayed with us just one year. As his wife would not come out he returned, I trust to give a good report of conditions in Utah, for he was certainly treated well while here.
A rather perplexing message from Hebron caused us to sit up and take notice, coming as it did, from Uncle John Pulsipher informing us that our daughter Ann Elizabeth, who we had left there was about to marry his son, if we had no objection. They wished to know immediately, or as soon as possible. We were not long deciding what our duty called for. I took the first train to Milford trusting to chance for crossing the desert and as a streak of luck I found Brother Orson Huntsman at Milford having come for merchandise and a very agreeable traveling companion he was during that lonely journey of one hundred miles. We arrived in Hebron in good time no one knowing that I was there until I sent for my daughter to the Post Office but I immediately regretted doing so in the way I did because of the effect the sudden surprise had upon her which almost caused a collapse. I then sent for our son Harry but although much surprised at my sudden or unexpected appearance he was better able to control himself than his sister. We sat and talked a while but nothing mentioned of the errand I came on. On the morrow however after a rather lengthy discussion of the errand, I gave my consent upon the following condition that I would write and ask her mother for her consent and await her answer and also that all the children, Harry, Ann Elizabeth and Florence should return with me to Salt Lake City. Bishop Terry then asked me to take a missionary trip to Clover Valley which I did and when I returned our people had gone to Conference in Saint George and I lost no time in following them to find my answer in the Post Office. Thus all necessary arrangements were made and on the morrow we went to the Temple where our daughter and John David Pulsipher were sealed for time and all eternity. I having the privilege granted by president David H. Cannon to witness the marriage ceremony a privilege not extended to any who had not been through the Temple themselves. We enjoyed the conference very much and then returned to Hebron to arrange for our starting for Salt Lake City as soon as possible which was expected of us by former agreement with mother. The usual journey across the desert was made and with the remainder of our children and daughter’s husband found a happy greeting at home. This was certainly a happy reunion and myself and oldest son found employment with the Salt Lake Herald, our son in the press department, which occupation did not appear quite suitable to him and he did not remain very long. Brother David C. Dunbar and his venerable father had the management of that publication and were highly esteemed in that capacity. Our daughter and husband did not remain with us long but returned to Hebron and our son Harry returned also shortly after. This was really the beginning of the end of our sojourn in the city. Brother Arthur Winter, his mother and two sisters, Annie and Kate came from Nottingham, England and made their home with us and he being proficient in phonography soon found a suitable position in the President’s Office where he remained a number of years. I should mention here a few of our close friends with whom we had agreeable times in England, when they were in the mission field. Brother Charles W. Stayner, John Nicholson, David C. Dunbar, Nelson Empy and others. Brother William H. Roe sent for me to act as night watchman in the factory, to have a gun but not to use it unless absolutely necessary. He hinted that there was an attempt at burglary but he said he had perfect confidence that I would use proper discretion. I was to be on duty when the factory closed at five p.m. and remain until seven a.m. fourteen hours and to keep enough steam in the pipes to prevent them from bursting by the frost. That was a rather lengthy and lonely position but I had the satisfaction of knowing that I was chosen to act in confidence. The first night passed off quietly and I so reported but two a.m. on the second night a man muffled to beat the band appeared at the glass or the upper part of the door being glass opposite the office. When he began to turn the knob I exerted myself and warned him to stay outside or take the consequence for it appeared to me that the time had come when it might be absolutely necessary to defend life and property without too much risk. He repeated two or three times that he was the night watchman on that beat and had keys to each business establishment but not recognizing his voice I still held him at bay and told him positively that if he opened the door he did so at his own peril. Finally at the end of our colloquy I was convinced of his sincerity and opened or allowed him to open the door and was thankful to know that he had been as he represented himself to be discharging a duty legally. I was more than pleased to take his hand in friendship instead of his life as I had a few moments before supposed I must. Supt. Roe came at his usual hour whistling up the steps I met him to give an account of what had or might have happened, imagine my surprise when he said with apparent indifference, “I heard you had a visitor last night.” Was I mistaken? He actually laughed aloud until I told him that I came within an ace of killing an innocent man then he threw up his hands and exclaimed, “My God would you have killed him?” I felt righteously indignant when I said why did you not inform me that I might expect such a visitor and not to run such a terrible risk of what might be termed cold blooded murder if that was the method adopted to test my fidelity it certainly was fraught with too much danger on the part of all concerned. I may have killed on the battle field but the thought of shedding innocent blood is to me appalling in the extreme and I trust Brother Roe that this disdainful incident may be a lesson to us through the remainder of our days. I may here state however that truer friendship never existed than was manifest between Brother Roe and I after that episode. On one occasion through jealousy he was told something derogatory to my character he plainly stated they were wrong that my record and work of honor was sufficient guarantee to justify the act in controversy. One Sunday evening my wife and I visited the resting place of President Brigham Young and while commenting upon his life and great achievements a man suddenly appeared and asked if we had been acquainted with Brigham Young in life to which I replied that I had not met him in person but that his character was an open book. Cunningly he pointed to the tomb and said, “place a gold twenty there and see him come and take it,” and he walked away as though he had made a wonderful impression, which he had but not as he intended it to be. We were silently willing to admit that none are perfect but to reproach the dead in the presence of strangers was beneath the standard of a true gentleman and though we never met that person again we were convinced that he was of that same stripe that told or tried to tell us so much to sour our minds when in Council Bluffs. The next exciting occurrence in the city was the murder of Sergeant Burk of the police without warning or the slightest provocation and the speedy ruthless killing of the soulless assassin by a righteously indignant community. Those acts always affected me and many others to have to witness. The next exciting event was at midnight when an explosion shook our homes and brought the people to view the fire that threatened the destruction of the business section and even the Tabernacle was in danger. We only took one excursion trip to the great Salt Lake where I enjoyed a mild sea bath but found it most difficult to swim as my feet would find the surface at nearly every stoke. As we came home we passed through a place with a few houses called New Brighton I thought what a difference to the Brighton in England. This one an exclusive bed of saleratus all around and our curiosity was roused. The warm spring baths a few blocks below our residence was often visited and tram cars passed back and forth drawn by mules, this was another strange arrangement to us. Some of the men became dissatisfied with the new arrangements in the factory and called a meeting to decide whether they should strike as they called it, I was there and tried to show the folly of such a move and in a few days Supt. Roe and myself persuaded them to reconsider the matter and let well enough alone. I was then in the overall department and at conference time as usual many old time friends came to visit with us and among them was Bishop Thomas S. Terry from Hebron with his wife Mary Ann and their children. They stayed with us a week but I could not be with them only in the evenings as it was stock taking in our department, inventory to be more proper, so busy was I that my dinner was furnished at the restaurant each day. I was made acquainted with the fact that the chief topic of conversation during my absence was Hebron and our children there who had returned as before stated and the changes in conditions, how nice it would be for us to make our permanent home there. Each evening this same argument was repeated but I could not be convinced that it was for our best good or at least before spring, it seemed folly to move again in the winter. Here are two mothers appealing to my sense of duty as a father which when all else failed appeared send the arrow straight to my heart and having no more to say was taken to mean that silence gives consent. Bishop Terry was planning to return but I had not fully consented, to accompany them even when I went to the factory that morning their parting words were, you had better join us at Provo. These would not be silenced. I took off my coat as usual, on arriving at the factory, and thought to commence work but something seemed to whisper quiet and without second thought I put on my coat and after saying goodbye to my associates I went down to the office and told Brother McAllister that I had decided to go back to Hebron. The plain simple truth appeared to mystify the good brother but what could I say of the matter other than the facts. “Why brother you have been down south before and did not succeed you had better see Brother Roe and have a talk with him,” and after a kind friendly talk with him I rather reluctantly left the office. The man I met on the main street was Brother Roe on his way to the factory and in his cheerful manner he saluted me with, “well Brother Bowler are you taking a morning stroll?” If I ever felt a loss of words it was surely then and I supposed I appeared as confused as I felt but he relieved my embarrassment by adding, “Is there anything I can do for you?” In a moment that brought out a positive no Brother Roe and that appeared to unseal my tongue. I briefly told him our intention of moving south again at the same time thanking him for the many acts of kindness received. “Well I’ll tell you Brother I think you are foolish to risk your future prospects down there but if you must go you will remember my address” and so we parted for aye in this world as he passed beyond the vale and I have not returned to Salt Lake City. It was now definitely understood that we should rejoin Bishop Terry and family at Provo or Milford and we called on Sister Phoeby Woodruff for our daughter Kate who had been in their family for some time and they did not wish to part with her. President Woodruff stating that we had a large family and might not miss her. They did not understand as did my wife that she had once left some of our children behind for nearly a year and could not forget the anxiety she felt at being separated so long. We explained these matters very kindly and with a God bless you Brother and Sister Bowler we parted from two of the best people we ever met in this world. All arrangements being made for our departure we took leave of Sister Winter and family, John Oliver, and a host of dear old friends an experience I shall never forget thus ended our journey in Salt Lake City. Being weighed in the balance it was akin to leaving England but it appeared to be the will of Him who ruleth the universe whose will we came to obey. I dwell on this momentous event in our lives as being by a power unseen. Can a rolling stone gather moss, is a question yet to be answered but that there may be exceptions to every rule future events may disclose. I had a full kit of tools again and we started westward with hopes of better prospects in the future than when we left. The train stopped at Provo but Bishop Terry and family had left but there being quite a number of saints returning from conference we had a pleasant trip until we reached Juab where we were informed that the flood had damaged the bridge over the Sevier River. They telegraphed to Milford for a train and all the passengers walked to the canyon this side of the bridge, supposing that we may not have to wait very long. We gathered something to make a fire and light and tried to keep it burning and thus we passed the night. A night never to be forgotten in the cold until the train came early in the morning and we arrived in Milford thankful that nothing more serious had happened. Quite a change in appearance here during the two and twelve years past but the next three days were as before the same old desert with the same barren aspects. The weather being favorable and the company agreeable the one hundred miles did not appear so long or lonely as before and we arrived in Hebron with thankful hearts for the blessings vouchsafe to us. A cordial if not elaborate reception awaited us, that same good influence enjoyed as when mingling with those people a few short years previously not forgetting the meeting our dear children who had preceded us. In expressing our appreciation of the good will of all towards us I said that if that was the place God had appointed for us to make our home we must adapt ourselves to these conditions, by which we were surrounded and do all the good possible in our humble way. Many times I have reflected upon the way we were wrought upon to cast our lot with some of Gods chosen people in the secluded part of His vineyard, free from the fascinating allurements of Babylon and the wickedness of the world.
While teaching school that winter my impression was that I was filling a mission that had been marked out for me and that my efforts were being crowned with success. Better children could not be found than in attendance at that time and I look back on those days as being among the most enjoyable of my earthly career, honor and respect was the order of the day. My family had not increased since January 15, 1881 and all were with us excepting Ann Elizabeth and her home was within a stones throw of ours making life a bliss complete where there’s love at home, was applicable then and there. Our oldest sons were employed carrying mail and herding sheep and I purchased a small field with a spring known as sheep spring which we developed for I could not remain inactive although I realized the fact I might not make a success of farming. To be sure I had my tools and knew how to use them if only I had leather and material which was remote from there at least fifty miles or more. The glorious fourth dawned auspiciously and a program befitting the occasion was rendered. The twenty fourth of July our pioneers day also considered a general holiday, it being the anniversary of the arrival of the pilgrim Saints in Salt Lake Valley in the year 1847. Having crossed the plains on nearly the same route as they, but under different conditions, they with ox teams and us in railroad cars we appreciated this celebration fully, and took an active part therein, as usual. Thanksgiving day displayed the gifts bestowed upon the husbandman during the summer season and we rejoiced with them as having participated in some degree in their labors. School called my attention now with a larger attendance than the year previous and I felt more at home in that vocation than any I engaged in, especially so with those dear children with whom I had taken so much interest and that was fully reciprocated by them and it is doubtful whether any community, large or small had more real social enjoyment than we at that time. One feature of conduct I may briefly mention here with regard to our amusements which was strictly adhered to for many years. One round dance, or waltz only each evening in compliance with the instructions given by the presiding officers, or leaders of our church. Our sabbath school, sacrament and mutual improvement meetings were well attended thus keeping temporal and spiritual matters excellently balanced to the enjoyment of all concerned. My choir were attending practice well and they were attaining a degree of proficiency which was only a type of things to come as will be made plain later. “Dispise not the day of small things,” looms up well here. Could it be possible that I should be blessed and prosper to the limit without being tested as was that exemplary man, Job? Is it not written “The Lord will have a tried people?” Should I not taste the bitters as well as the sweets, if so why should I murmur or complain? I was staking down the trough in the pig pen when the animal bit my leg but I paid but little attention to it at the time. There was a foot of snow on the ground and after attending our mutual improvement meeting that evening and while sitting by our fireside my leg began to ache quite badly. I did not rest very well that night and on the morrow I applied such remedies as we had at hand but my leg began to show signs of inflammation or still worse I feared blood poison. I went to Gunlock and good old Sister Jones applied a homemade remedy that for a time appeared to relieve the pain but a change for the worse in a few days was evident. I went to Saint George where it was treated by good old Sister Barnes one of a handcart company that crossed the plains and she was the doctor all right but she told me that it was almost sure to break out again if exposed to extreme cold or frost. While there Brother Edward H. Snow was married and I wrote some words on a broom handle for them that caused some little comment. I was too lame to accept their invitation to join them at their wedding. I had the pleasure of attending September Quarterly Conference, many visitors were present among whom was James Wadsworth from Panaca, Nevada who told me that his father came from England and that if I had not planned for the winter he would be pleased to have me take my tools and commence business with him which I promised to do. Proper arrangements being made I commenced operation in the back part of the Wadsworth store and soon learned that the name Bowler was not at all strange with that family as in conversation with Brother George Wadsworth Sr. I was informed that my grandfather Benjamin Bowler baptized the man when a young man in Derby Shire England and that seemed to form a tie of closest friendship. My boot and shoe shop was very well patronized by residents and Bullionville close by and I learned that burglars had entered the store some time previous and helped themselves to a small amount of goods but signs indicated that they had been interrupted and might try their luck again. As in Salt Lake City I was requested to be on night duty by taking my bed and intercept their movements should they make another attempt but as they did not I was just as well satisfied on my part to know our arrangement had succeeded. I spent Christmas holidays with my family in Hebron and a right good festive week we had which terminated all too soon after New Years eve. My family were anxious to join in my new enterprise but proper arrangements had not been completed for their convenience and I returned on the mail at midnight and a bitter cold trip it was and I contracted a severe cold which finally settled in the old wound in my leg and soon it was so swollen and painful that I could have no rest night or day. Then a blessed thought came to mind why not try the remedy my grandfather Hutchinson applied on such occasions, but the nearest drug store was in Pioche. My dear friend Jeter Snow kindly offered to take the prescription and in the shortest time possible returned with the very thing needful, God bless his memory for ever he is now Bishop of the Pine Valley Ward loved and respected by a vast number of acquaintances. I purchased a home on the Co-op block but never lived in it as the family that rented it had no place to go. We rented a home of Martin Neilson. My family came and Brother or Mr. Neilson was kind though rather eccentric, being a bachelor. Bullionville was booming then and I was kept busy from early morn till late at night with a ready sale for boots at $10.00 a pair. Word was received that Sunday School Conference would convene in June and that the Stake Superintendency would be in attendance very agreeable to all and preparations commenced immediately to make the occasion one that would be appreciated by all concerned. I was urgently requested to organize and train a juvenile choir especially for that event which I did and they certainly rendered their parts very credibly and received joyous approval of parents and all present. I regret to state however that their accomplishment caused jealousy on the part of Brother Finley the Ward Choir Leader which caused a breach that was never fully reconciled. Myself and oldest son Harry went to Pioche and took out our naturalization papers and in July our family were called together and we went through the Temple in Saint George for their adoption. In September we took a week vacation in Little Pine Valley, a dairy ranch where our daughter Ann Elizabeth and husband resided during the summer and while there I took a ride through Cave Canyon one of the most picturesque scenes in that neighborhood and in wandering around I lost my bearings but noticed a rather peculiar rock a small piece of which I broke off and put in my pocket, but paid no further attention to it as I became aware of the fact that I was minus a compass. It was getting late in the afternoon when I discovered flat top mountain the only familiar guide to direct my homeward trip where I arrived so late that the folks began to feel uneasy about my safety. That was my first bewilderment in the mountains, but not my last by any means as all elevations appeared so much alike that I never attempted a journey of that kind after without more or less misgiving. The good people in Hebron asked me to come and teach their school that winter but I told them I had plenty of business on hand. I thanked them for their good will of course. Upon my return I found plenty of work accumulated in the shop and in a few days my old friend John Reese from Pioche came to pay his usual visit and to show me a specimen of rock he had just found and his glowing description aroused my curiosity and brought to mind the rock I had in my pocket but I was not all prepared for the exclamation, My God man you’re a millionaire. I looked closely at the man to see if I was mistaken to find that he was in earnest. He smelt of the rock, turned it over a number of times, put his tongue to it as though eager to test its value and said you will of course allow me to take this to Sam, meaning Samuel Godby Jr. in Pioche. It was amusing to see him carefully wrap it in paper enough to bury it. Little Samuel Godby Sr. was in New York in quest of money to fully test the new process of roasting the tailings from Pioche that he considered rich in mineral value but not succeeding there he went to England and there he failed in his purpose also. Finally a cablegram came for Bullionville to close down tight immediately. Such unexpected termination of operations caused something like a slight panic in that vicinity for a short time. Prior to this I had purchased a load of hides and taken them to Cedar City and exchanged them for leather and on that trip in the meadow canyon I experienced one of the stormiest nights I ever was in anywhere. Lying on my quilts by my wagon I realized that water was underneath as well as above and though it was midnight I got up and took my medicine for in either event I must have a good soaking and make the best of it. After what had happened in Panaca and Bullionville there was only one course for me to pursue in justice to all concerned and after arranging business matters with James Wadsworth we bid adieu to the state of Nevada and returned once more to Hebron. As stated we had not resided in our home in Panaca and it was now left in the care of the family residing there with the understanding that they pay the taxes and keep the place in proper repair but they did neither but instead without advising me they moved away as if by stealth. I did then what I aught not to have done neither would I had I known the danger of the undertaking. Having sold the house to Mr. Rich I was requested to send the deeds to him in Pioche and receive the money there which I did entrusting all in the care of our son John, just a boy. Bless the boy he held to the deeds until he received the money and though a stranger and in a mining camp late in the evening, more than fifty miles from home he went to Panaca with all speed and passed that night in a chicken house. He reached home late the next night after traveling through a foot of snow and busy as I was I then realized what had happened to the boy in anxiety, and what might have happened on an undertaking of that kind and wished I had taken the risk myself. He was certainly a faithful son. Providence had directed our course to unite our efforts with those good people with whom we had spent many happy days and thus for the third time our lot was cast where to all human appearances the Lord had intended us to be. Surely He acts in a mysterious way his wonders to perform, and had we not come to Zion with the sole intention of devoting our time and all that He saw fit to bestow upon us to His service?
Chapter X
Additional responsibility was given to me on this occasion being elected Justice of the Peace, Supt. of Sunday School, and President of Mutual Improvement Association and the Lord was my helper in giving me much joy in my labors and we resolved to devote our best efforts to the accomplishment of every good that might be presented. The hymn “Our life as a dream our time as a stream glides swiftly away,” more of a reality than we ever realized before. The good impressions implanted upon the minds of the youth during that season I trust may never be forgotten by those who participated although I did not fully realize until later that I had not given my own children attention I had to others which was demonstrated later when they did not reach the standard of education necessary for their advancement. It had been my aim to be just to all and partial to none which I believe was accredited to me by all my pupils so that it could not be said that I had given most attention to my own children. Time glided swiftly along and many changes must of necessity occur for nothing remains stationary and on the fourth of July a change was awaiting us which was entirely unlooked for. My choir did themselves grand with the parts rendered. Bishop Joseph S. Huntsman of the Gunlock Ward was so favorably impressed that he gave us a pressing invitation to give his Ward “Our Best” as he termed it on the 24th of July. This we did and had a very enjoyable time with the few Saints there. Gunlock appeared to be a war-like name and aroused my curiosity and upon inquiring I teamed that Apostle George A. Smith so named it as a kind of memento of events connected with William Hamblin and pioneer life. Being only about three thousand feet above sea level the climate was rather warm but not barren by any means in the town proper it having an abundance of fruit of all kinds which appeared quite a luxury in those days to us. Being so favorably impressed I accepted the request to go and teach their school the following winter which appeared quite agreeable to all concerned. Thus another change which culminated in our removal to Dixie as the southern district of Utah was known and properly so I presume for it was Southern. Here I found another field of usefulness for musical talent and teaching school and other duties connected with the ward which we enjoyed very much during the mild winter months. The greatest change was early in the new year when Bishop Huntsman made the following proposition to me. Brother Bowler I am going to move away and I want you to buy me out, so strange was this sudden announcement that at the moment I did not take it very seriously but upon his repeating those same words I realized that he was in earnest. I therefore purchased his whole interest in Gunlock for it was then made plain to me that this was my sphere of action. Franklin 0. Holt was sustained Bishop with William Jones and myself counselors and by Apostle Erastus Snow. During the five years following I taught school alternately in Gunlock and Hebron in which capacity I enjoyed the confidence and consideration of a number of the best people it was my pleasure to associate with anywhere. We were busy during the growing season in field and garden with fruitful orchard and vineyard there being abundance of peaches. It was customary to have bees to spread the peaches out to dry, after they were cut open. these being placed on a temporary scaffold. I may add to throw them at each other was also customary. This with other social amusement characterized the mode of living in those primitive days when money was scarce and willing hands were ready to join in some kind of mutual entertainment. The first and last crop of cotton we raised was a reminder of those cruel slavery days, they used to sing about and “they never did come again” but that everlasting picking for which we received nine cents a pound. I always had Christmas holidays with my family and on one of those occasions I did not know but that would be the last in this world, it was the thirty-first of December, and I had promised to celebrate New Years day with my school in Hebron but being detained rather late with our neighbors I urged my horse on the way to find while passing through the Mountain Meadow settlement that he showed signs of lameness. There was fifteen miles further to go and my promise appeared vividly before my mind so I must be patient and give my horse plenty of time and when at Holt’s Ranch twelve miles yet to go I passed the mail carrier, Benjamin Knell Jr., who told me to stay right there that night for in half an hour it would be black as h---. His words proved true for a blacker night I never saw when I reached the open desert and the rain came also with an occasional streak of lightening and my horse refused to stay in the road but I thought I could coax him to go through all right. That horse taught me one of the most potent lessons by telling me plainly as he knew how that “that night cometh when none should work.” The first I discovered in the darkness was that I was among the tall sage bush, which side of the road I did not know. Matches were of no use but I was well protected from the strong storm with overcoat, chaps and top boots but although thus heavily loaded when I found the road I concluded that the safest plan for me was to walk if only I could endure to the end, or reach Brother Taylor’s home at the mouth of the canyon about six miles further. I had heard it said that such is life in the far west and they had rightly named it, for so it appeared to me that night or until morning I assure you. Early next morning Bishop Terry came along and anxiously inquired for me and in an excited manner stated that when he stopped at Holt’s Ranch and heard that I had gone he just pictured me in just the condition I really was, as related. Now, just listen, he drove on and I saddled my horse and followed him to see his buggy turned over and him not in sight, was he dead was my first thought. No for at that moment he crawled from under side and although slightly bruised he was able with my help to straighten things out and we went home. The next year I taught school again in Hebron but decided to try a different mode of travel when going home for Christmas so although I hired the same horse I harnessed him to a two wheeled cart but the traitor tried his best when near Cane Spring to upset the whole business and would have succeeded had I not been too quick for him and keeping a tight line. He did turn the cart over and then looked to see if I was there. My readers may think these experiences were funny and I believe the horse may have had that same thought but I did not enjoy the joke as fully then as while relating these incidents briefly to you. I will pass along however not entering too lengthy in detail and state here that the following summer was agreeably spent at home and again I was requested to teach school in Gunlock which proved very satisfactory to all concerned. I was elected Justice of the Peace and the first case that came before me was of rather exciting nature, a complaint was entered that a sheepherder had pointed a gun at one of our respected citizens and a warrant of arrest was issued. At the preliminary hearing the evidence faltered with reference to the gun other than in self defence and the case was dismissed. And there was but little need for officers of the law in those primitive days. The same regime was observed in our amusements, only one round dance, or waltz and our social gatherings were of the most agreeable nature, to be found anywhere. By adapting ourselves to the various conditions we became acquainted with the customs of the comparatively new country and the song we sang in days gone by “some day I’ll wander back again to where the old stands” had to some extent lost its charm. My school season dawned auspiciously and proved to be one of the most enjoyable occasions I ever had in that vocation, at the close of which I took the Mail contract from St. George to Pine Valley, forty-two miles and back the next day except Sunday on horse back. This was tedious in the summer and disagreeable in winter when the snow was deep my boys assumed the responsibility while I was in school and performed their duty faithfully. Not being accustomed to riding in the saddle and especially on such rough roads forty-two miles each day, this occupation was quite unpleasant for me. By the request of our neighbors I promised to return in the night to celebrate on Independence day. Postmaster Pymn in St. George granted me this privilege by handing me the return mail at nine p.m. on the third day. I started for Gunlock but my horse was tired as myself and played a trick on me by going to the field instead of the Santa Clara Post Office, this in the darkness took me by surprise but he tried the same trick again on the trip home. Day dawned ere I reached tired and sleepy but the captain of artillery was just firing his first salute which was a signal for all to keep awake, at least till his ammunition was exhausted. Forty-two mile ride was having its effect on me and sleep I must for an hour or two before I could take my part in the program so with my dear wife on guard I had brief repose. On those occasions, in small settlements we had to all take part which we certainly did in one way or other, the fiddler and a few heels on the boots doing their share. It not being customary in England to attend dance halls we had not learned to Balance all etc., but we did now enjoy looking at the children go through the several evolutions in such graceful form and dignified deportment. Shortly after I was called to witness the first death in our family connections in Utah, returning to St. George my last trip for the week on Saturday evening a telegram was handed to me from our daughter Ann Elizabeth in Hebron stating that their little James was very ill would I come at once. Come, of course although after riding two-hundred-fifty-two miles that week in the saddle I was quite in need of rest on the Sabbath. My horse again tried to trick me but I was on the alert and made fairly good time to Gunlock where Bishop F. 0. Holt kindly loaned his buggy and we arrived in Hebron about three p.m. to find the child past human aid. All had been done that could be and he passed to the home of eternal light the next morning while my hands were on his head in answer to my prayer that our heavenly father would set his spirit free. We did not remain long in Gunlock after the Mail contract was completed but those five years had been quite pleasantly spent and the new change altogether unsought presented itself. I might here mention an incident that occurred previous to this however, while teaching school in Hebron. I hired a horse one Saturday intending to go home and return on Sunday apparently forgetting a rule I had strictly observed from my youth. All appeared favorable however until I reached the desert and it was then I was made to realize my condition as snow began to fall in large flakes before I reached Spring Creek it was a blizzard. During that night a flood came rushing down near the room I slept in and at intervals it sounded as though the world was falling to pieces. Myself going to fall in the whirl pool and after a sleepless night I started for Hebron not knowing the danger ahead of me. While trying to cross the old torrent my horse absolutely refused to go until I crowded him so closely that he fell in and I had to roll off or be drowned and he also. We scrambled out separately and so remained the remainder of the journey and I said as I had often avowed before that Sabbath breaking is risky business. Our boys had been investing in cattle and concluded that Gunlock was not quite suitable for that industry and finally persuaded me to trade our home to John F. Laub for his in Hebron and we for the fourth and final time moved back to the old stomping ground. Again I was appointed Justice of the Peace, taught school once more and made myself useful in every way during that winter. In June following at the general roundup or public drive when trying to prevent a stampede a heavy log fell on my foot and mashed my big toe to a pulp. In that condition Merkens Terry insisted on me taking himself and daughter and her babe to Milford and although I remonstrated I could not pacify him so lame as I was I started on the one-hundred mile journey and camped at the old rendezvous Antelope Spring. We started in the morning in a cloud of dust so dense it was that I missed the direct road and went around by Rush Lake where we arrived at midnight where with much pleading the mother and babe were admitted to the home, but Brother Terry and I found quarters in the wagon. While going down the canyon the next morning off came one of the tires to the dismay of my company they having been accustomed to city life they felt that all was lost for it was about so rough a road, it could not be called a road. This is the colloquy that followed: “Brother Terry please hand me that tin plate from the dinner box,” “Wha--wha-- what are you going to do what wha--wha--,” “And those scissors too,” “Wha--wha-- do you want them for.” I cut the plate into shreds and we fastened the tire on and without further trouble arrived at Minersville for noon with a lame horse and I thought a new shoe was needed so I asked a boy standing by the low house to loan me a hammer and pincers and he proceeded to do the job himself but the first nail he drove to the head and when he pulled it out blood followed. The result was that my horse was so lame that we did not reach Milford in time for the train and no trains running on Sunday we had to wait until Monday. We stayed with an English man named Hardy, not the Hardy of former acquaintance but a machine agent and shoe maker and I purchased some things necessary for my home work, and trade. On the train was Apostle Francis M. Lyman one of the dearest friends I ever met both in England and also in Zion who took charge of Brother Terry, daughter and babe. With God bless you Brother Bowler the train proceeded to Salt Lake City. Alone I started for home with a lame horse but no load excepting feed for my team and myself but I would not care to duplicate that journey and what followed. Poor old Bally faithful animal though he was doing his best but it was painful to see him limp along and I helped him all I could by alternating the shoes by tacking them on and then taking them off. The first night I camped by the hot spring and the next night I met a drove of cattle which blocked the road so long that I had to make a dry camp, there I had a dream in which I saw a man shot, that man was shot to be sure but by his own hand. When I reached Antelope Spring I tore a pair of overalls in two and soaked it good to keep the dirt from the horses foot and thus I traveled to Pinto Canyon that day. My feed being gone I turned my team loose on the desert knowing they could not wander far away. About midnight I was awakened by Henry Holt and Sarah Canfield on their way to investigate the report of the death of Moroni Canfield which proved to be too true. I doubt if ever home sweet home was sung with more vim than on my late arrival on the 9th after leaving just in time to celebrate the glorious fourth of July which we did in right good Yankee fashion. The 24th or pioneer day was rather quietly observed because of several being from home and a case of sickness that took the attention of most of those present. In August it was reported to me that two men, strangers had killed a cow belonging to Henry Barnum and a warrant of arrest was issued for their arrest returnable at 10 a.m. the day following. Those men being well armed it was arranged to take them by surprise at early dawn which was done in true western style and their guns were of but little use to them. Court convened at once and they were proven guilty and sent to the District Court but through some misunderstanding they returned stating they had a choice of two things to stay or leave the state at once they chose the latter and did it quickly. I had risked my life once with them in the following manner, on the night they were held in our back room they soon appeared to be sound asleep and there being a dance in the school house opposite I was left alone with the prisoners but they soon came between me and their guns. I did not appear to notice their actions and just as the opportunity presented itself the constable appeared and intercepted their movements and a guard was placed over them until morning.
Chapter XI
October 1893 I accepted the call to teach school in Fort Hamblin, commonly known as the Mountain Meadows, fifteen miles south from Hebron, our present home. It had been said “what is there in a name” and I soon discovered that much meaning was attached to that name at least as in answering a letter from my brother John in New York which called for an early reply, I incidently mentioned “Mountain Meadow” that was the last of our correspondence he never wrote again. In England I had been daunted with that same stigma as though I had any connection with the massacre seven-hundred miles away. I was now in a position however to state that not only my pupils but their parents were innocent of that or any crime connected with it as thirty-six years had passed and not one of the former inhabitants now dwelt there. I learned to love those dear children and in our comparative solitude that winter passed peacefully and very agreeably although the snow was quite heavy most of the time. As usual I spent Christmas holiday with my family. Miss Eva Canfield, one of my pupils being an honored guest. The weather and social conditions being favorable an enjoyable week was spent. Not so however with our return trip as snow had fallen quite deep in Meadow Canyon making it difficult to travel for about a mile so that we had to take it on foot each foot breaking through the snow that was not frozen hard enough to hold us up. Snow remained from one to three feet deep for some time but with warm hearts and cheerful dispositions we turned darkness into day and as one happy family we bided the time until spring. Never can I forget the last day in school how cutely those children arranged a surprise for me that spoke volumes of the regard they had for their teacher, not in grandeur with blast of trumpet, colors flying martial music or ostensible appearance, but quiet dignified honor and delight that won for them a warm place in my heart that bore fruit in after years. That was my eleventh and last term in school and after sowing our wheat in Sheep Spring field May 1894 I felt anxious to launch out in some other branch of usefulness or find employment in a more settled form than heretofore. While inwardly debating what course to pursue Julia Barnum asked if I would drive her team to Cedar City as she was going to visit with her parents Brother and Sister Tate who resided there. This was just the kind of trip I needed. After staying there one night I decided to go to Parowan and visit with our old English friend Caleb Orton and by invitation I rode to Enoch as far as they were going so I must take the road on foot with my kit of tools weighing many pounds but the road was fairly good. When I reached Summit I was pretty tired and sat down on the old mud wall to rest or wait until a conveyance of some kind might come along, which it did but the best they would do was to take my tools and I followed that much lighter. They stopped in the Lane and taking my load I shall never forget the salutation of the children at play, “there goes an old tramp,” and I could have responded Amen had I given way to my feelings but I tramped along that lovely evening with a determination to make a change one way or another. A hearty welcome awaited me in the Orton family which compensated me for my arduous journey and on the morrow I was introduced to Morgan Richards Supt. of the Co-op store and shoe shop and forthwith I commenced to work in the shop in company with other brethren from England. Prospects appeared fairly good and thus that summer passed with the way opening for my family to join me and make their home among many friends, new and old. In the fall I went to Hebron and disposed of some of our property and with our two youngest sons Francis Joseph and George Hebron we moved to Parowan where we purchased a home but rented one from Brother Donald McGregor for that winter. The management of the shoe department was given to me by the confidence of the leaders and request of the patrons and during the five years sojourn with good saints in Parowan we had the best of health and our married children paid us a visit at intervals and we were granted a week vacation each summer to visit our loved ones. I was reelected Justice of the Peace and it being the County seat my judicial experience was amusing, in some cases but not in others. It was my pleasure to join in the bonds of wedlock a few happy couples but in criminal cases my sympathy or disdain was felt according to the merits or demerits of the case before me. Two instances here may suffice, one of each character, late one Friday evening I was called to the courthouse and there found a couple from Kanarraville who had traveled all day in a snow storm and upon asking the bride to be her age she answered seventeen sir. The County Clerk and I exchanged glances and informed her that eighteen was the proper age but she proved equal to the occasion by producing a note from her mother and when the knot was tied she said, “Is that all?” and the next day they traveled as they came in a snow storm. The opposite case was that of a man about as near seventy as seventeen who had stolen a cow and I had to commit him to the district court of course. Our home consisted of two lots and twelve acres in the field, the latter I offered to the city if suitable to build the Branch Normal School, but it was built in Cedar City. I ordered ten thousand brick but my wife desired to move to Gunlock and dwell near our children. Our lad Harry H., the oldest son was herding sheep and appeared to enjoy that as did the shepherds of old for a time but finally he settled at Sheep Spring, the place I mentioned before going to Parowan. Our tanner, William Prichard was also trying to operate a tannery in Saint George, and I was invited to go down and start a shoe shop, on my way I went through Gunlock and purchased our old home there from John F. Laub. For nearly a year I thed to make that shop a success but the leather was so poor that it proved a failure, as I had tried to make them understand it would. That being the first time in my life that I felt a complete failure and I was compelled to quit an undertaking of any importance while trying, against odds to make it a success. However I was hastily called home on account of sickness that for a time held life and death in the balance and I therefore concluded that I was needed at home, my wife recovered and appeared to be perfectly contented , as she stated she was now where she wanted to be near her children. Our oldest son Harry and our son-in-law Josiah Leavitt were called on a mission to the Southern States and in June 1900 I was appointed Census Enumerator, traveling about four hundred miles in the saddle. During those twenty-six days I met with some of the best people to be found in business transactions and excepting the arduous horseback ride I enjoyed the duty very much, remuneration being six dollars per day, with over time also. Our visits with my sister Mary Ann became quite frequent and our work in the Temple of the highest order for the living and the dead, “Thy will 0 God not mine be done,” appears before my mind as the trying events that followed will show. December 15th 1900 after a very brief illness my dear wife Matilda passed to the great beyond her only murmur being that she was tired and the breast plate on her coffin read “AT REST.” I was thankful then that I had complied with her request by purchasing our old home so that all our children excepting our son that was on his mission could attend her funeral. So lonely did I feel that I prayed that I also might go to my final rest but I was made to realize that I was needed even more than before as our two youngest sons still needed my care. To add to my trouble shortly after Christmas our little granddaughter was burned so badly that she also was taken from us. Her father still being in the mission field and it seemed almost past human endurance but my constant prayer was to be faithful to the end. I felt strongly impressed to join our brother Henry Hill in his new enterprise in Honolulu but a few words pathetically spoken by our son Francis was sufficient to bring me to fully realize my paternal duty and I went to Saint George to visit with my sister and while there my wife appeared to me, in vision and told what was best to do. Our son-in-law Josiah Leavitt returned from his mission and was taken down with small pox and after staying with him through that dread disease I went to Parowan seventy-five miles on a trusty horse and visited with my former friends who thed to share my trouble with the kindest words I had ever heard, or so it appeared to me then. Upon my return home I took a trip with a prospecting party passing through a strip of Arizona into Nevada, the most desolate country I had ever seen in all my many thousands of miles I had traveled which was considerable but the mine was of but little value anyway as it proved to be too far from the railroad. Our two youngest sons married two of Bishop Holt’s daughters and it appeared as though I must be left alone a condition quite foreign to my anticipation which I felt almost deserted for a time. I made it a matter of prayer that I might be directed aright and my prayer was answered by being directed to Sarah Canfield a widow with two children, David and Edna aged respectively nine and twelve or nearly so. It was Christmas again and our son Harry returned from his mission and soon after took to wife Miss Hattie Canfield in the Saint George Temple and then it did appear that I was too lonely so I asked Sarah E. Canfield to share our earthly prospects and we also were sealed, for time in the Saint George Temple which was a blessing to both of us under existing conditions. Being still choir leader our organ was in use quite frequently and our —girl Edna became so anxious to learn to play it that she progressed so well that she was chosen our Ward Organist a position she held for years, or until she was married to William H. Jones who then resided in Enterprise , Utah. The boy David worked alternately with me on the farm and in adjacent settlements as opportunity and inclination directed until he married Miss Almira Burgess who resided in Mesquite, Nevada, where they made their home. With our nine surviving children there soon appeared a large increase in grandchildren, the Lord was watching over us for good and directing us in a path of truth. May 1904 I received my Commission as Post Master in Gunlock which together with other duties, Justice of the Peace, Superintendent of Sunday School, President of Mutual Improvement and Choir Leader kept me fairly employed. In June 1910 I was again commissioned Census Enumerator for this district which embraced Gunlock, Indian Reservation, Santa Clara, Bloomington and Atkinville not covering so much territory as in 1900. I anticipated a pleasant time but was disillusioned when the Indians refused to answer questions needed to fill our government reports. Had it not been for the assistance of the agent and one Indian named Shem, who acted as Bishop of the tribe I should have been compelled to summon an interpreter which I was anxious to avoid as my time was limited to the twenty-six days in June. One week in Santa Clara was a very pleasant experience and especially so in the home of Adolph Hafen with whom I stayed and enjoyed so much during those few days, they seemed almost like my own family. I did just finish my report in time to file it in the office of the County Clerk on Saturday afternoon and then return home in so much pain that I could scarcely retain my seat in the saddle. Whether the change of water or the heat and dust was the cause I could not tell but for a week I suffered day and night until there appeared to be no hope left. Our oldest daughter and family, also our youngest son and family moved to Mesquite, Nev. the first to homestead, the other to teach school where later he became Principal, both families making a success for years. In my correspondence with relatives in England I discovered the address of my dear cousin William Burrows of Dry Pot Lodge, referred to who like myself had raised a large family and lost his wife and communication soon commenced with them, the dear old boy, I had given up hope of ever seeing or hearing from him in this world. More anon. My dear friend Arthur Winter came to Saint George with President Joseph F. Smith and company to conference and when I learned that I was not long in joining them my horse seeming to the twenty-three miles did not amount to much that day. My but I did enjoy the few hours spent on that occasion with Arthur who I had not seen for a number of years nor have we met since that day. I bought a home in Enterprise thinking to move there but conditions changed so that we remained in Gunlock and I concluded to let well enough alone, for the present any way. At our family reunion held in Gunlock nearly all being present, Bishop Thomas S. Terry congratulated me in the course pursued since coming to Utah and encouraged us to remain united as heretofore that we may progress in every good work and deed. In the year 1916 we numbered over one-hundred souls and at this writing we nearly have one-hundred grandchildren and about half that number of great grandchildren. Praise God from whom all blessings flow. The Lord had blessed me with a good clear voice and musical talent that has been applied in singing His praise and also enabling me to train many to follow in my footsteps to the honor and glory of our Heavenly Father. On many occasions my heart has been made to rejoice in the manifestations of kindness shown me by youth and age in inviting me to social parties to show their appreciation of my services with them.
I should here retrace to my first home missionary trip to Pine Valley in the year 1882 to show how service is appreciated by the Latter-Day-Saints in Utah. Snow fell so deep the first night that Elder Orson W. Huntsman and myself had to stay a few days in Grass Valley with Brother John Gardner and family. A family loved and respected by all and a bond of friendship was formed that will last between us forever. Another item I had overlooked that should be inserted here is when our son Harry was herding sheep and we had not heard from him for several days only that he was supposed to be alone but where was the question. Without waiting to consult the trustees I left school and as quickly as my horse would carry me to Gunlock, back to Chadburn Ranch, on to the Foster Ranch, to the Hunt Ranch but no one seemed to know where the boy was and finally about midnight I saw the shadow of a fire at the distance and there he was camped under a ledge of rock. He had heard the report of my gun and started a fire or I could not have found him that night but we laid down tired I surely was and at dawn we were under a foot of snow. It was not so bad the next night in Cotton Wood Canyon, but we were thankful it was no worse, and that I had found the boy. The trite remark that three moves are as bad as a burn out” and that “a rolling stone gathers no moss” may be questioned here when I state that we moved from England to Hebron then to Salt Lake City; back to Hebron; thence to Panaca; back to Hebron; thence to Gunlock; back to Hebron; thence to Parowan; back to Gunlock where the sign Gunlock Post Office now marks the old familiar spot. A number of years having elapsed we will take a retrospective view of events during that interval. Our Edna was my assistant in the Post Office until she was married, a responsibility faithfully discharged after which the many pressing duties at home have kept me well occupied. A thp to St. George, Parowan, Littlefield, Mesquite, Bunkerville and our neighbor towns Central and Veyo make the limit of my wanderings during the last few years. To be sure we have not been strictly stereotyped in our sphere of action. In addition to responsible positions before mentioned, that of Ward Clerk and care of Telephone business have claimed my time and attention in no small degree and affording much pleasure and satisfaction withal. The hand of death has been laid upon us quite heavily too. First our bright intelligent, faithful missionary grandson Ernest Pulsipher was laid to rest in Mesquite, Nevada, leaving wife Juanita and babe Ernest and parents to mourn his loss. My poem “Peaceful Sleep” has appropriate place. Less than two months later our daughter Mary Ann Leavitt was called to her reward in Bunkerville, Nevada, March 13, 1921. Annie as we always addressed her was the mother of 17 children, 14 of whom survive her. This bereavement weighed heavily upon me the more so because my health at that time would not permit me to attend either of their funeral services. My poem for Annie, “Mother” is descriptive of her true maternity and I trust may be kept in loving remembrance for all time. It has often been remarked by those who knew her best that Annie Leavitt filled a wonderful mission here on earth. Our son Francis Joseph has held the responsible position of Bishop of the Gunlock Ward for a number of years and has the same number of children that we had, the eldest, Erma, has her diploma and may teach our district school. Our oldest son Harry has a homestead a mile above town and with his family enjoy the quiet surroundings during the summer season returning to their town residence during the winter. Their oldest daughter, Golda, choosing to make her home temporarily with old time friends, Brother and Sister Adams on the desert near Newcastle. Our son John and family own the Bigelow Ranch and other property which makes them comparatively independent of outside resources. Our daughter, Florence Matilda, and family occupy a similar situation a mile or two further so that most of our immediate family reside within a few miles distant from us. Ann Elizabeth and family residing in Mesquite are very comfortably situated; Walter Wallace and numerous family reside in Enterprise engaged in the sheep industry and our youngest son George Hebron and family are somewhat divided in homes and interest.