It is the responsibility of the researcher to obtain any copyright clearances. Permission to publish material from this/these transcript(s) must be obtained from the Supervisor of Reference Services and/or the L. Tom Perry Special Collection Coordinating Committee. William Griffiths Reese Journal, vol. 9, 21 June 1916 – 26 Nov. 1923 MSS 1952 [bracketed page numbers are used when original page numbering is incorrect or missing; journal is handwritten primarily in blue or black ink, exceptions will be noted; author did not insert page numbers on the first 27 pages of the volume.] [inside front cover] 14 3.25 10.50 [inside front leaf] [following 3 lines look like they were printed using a stamp] ELDER W.G. REESE, 110 WRIGHT ST. Adelaide. Number of our Case Automobile 1915 model – No. 27648. [1] 110 Wright St. Adelaide S.A. I commenced taking the following notes Sept. 9, 1907. [2] Historical Record of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. and of the Reorganized Church of Latterday Saints. Official Statement of Pres. Joseph F. Smith on polygamy. Inasmuch as there are numerous stories in circulation that Plural Marriages have been entered contrary to the official de- claration of Pres. Woodruff and adopted by the Church at its General conference Oct. 6, 1890, which forbade any mar- riages in violation of the law of the land, I, Joseph F. Smith, president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- day Saints, hereby affirm and declare that no such marriages have been [3] solemnized with the sanction and consent or knowledge of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and I hereby announce that all such marriages are prohibited; and if any officer or member of the Church shall assume to solemnize or enter into any such marriage, he will be declared to in transgression against the Church and will be liable to be dealt with accordingly to the rules and regulations thereof and excommunicated therefrom. Joseph F. Smith President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints. Salt Lake City, Utah. April 6, 1904. Deseret News, Apr. 7, 1904 (1906). [4] Resolution of Endorsement. F.M. Lyman, Pres. of the Apostles introduced the following:- Resolved that we the Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints in General Con- ference assembled hereby approve and endorse the statement and declaration of Pres. Joseph F. Smith, just made to this Conference concerning Plural Marriage, so will the courts of the Church in the enforcement thereof. Salt Lake City, Apr. 4, 1904 Deseret News, Apr. 7, 1904. [pp. [5]-[25] contain some entries in red ink, which is indicated by bold font.] [5] Name of the Church Beginning of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It arose and was organized under the laws of our country, New York, U.S.A. April 6, 1830. By command of God. For this shall my Church be called even the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Reorganized Doc. and Cov, Sec. 17-1 Doc. & Cov. 115-3-4. Unto all the Elders and people of my Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- day Saints scattered abroad in all the world. Thus shall my Church be called even the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Apr. 26, 1838 – On this date a revelation was given which among [6] other things settles definitely the name of the Church. Revelation in full given in Doc. & Cov. Utah edition Sec. 115. Josephite History Vol. 2 P. 15 1-2. In small print this is contrary to name given to Josephite Church. Reorganized named. Article of Incorporation Art. 1. The name of the association and organization shall be the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and it shall be incorporated under the Law of Illinoise under and by that name. The Church adheres to the doctrines and tenants of the Original Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints as organized by Joseph Smith (the martyr) now diseased, on the 6th day of April 1830, as the [7] same has been reorganized by by Joseph Smith of Plains, Illinoise with the advise and assistance of Jason W. Briggs, Zenos H. Gurley, Wm. Marks, Israel Rogers and many others. Adopted Oct. 21, 1872 Reorganized History Vol. 3 p. 709 Notes on Name of Church: -Utah Doc. and Cov. Sec. 28, 2-3. Rev. given Fayette N.Y. Sept. 1830 Doc. and Cov. Section 27: 12-13 Reorg. Doc. & Cov. Sec. 27:2 26:3. Same as Utah Edition. Reorganized Church admits Authority in Utah. It is my conviction that there are men in those Utah Valleys who hold a legitimate authority priesthood who will have to be recognized. Joseph Smith’s Statement. Kirtland Apr. 6, 1890. [8] Resolution on Organization. Resolved – That we believe that the Church of Christ Organized on the 6th day of April exists as on that day. Wherever six or more Saints are organized according to the pattern in the Doc. & Cov. Done at the Conference held June 1852. R.H. Vol. 8 P. 210. Reorganized or Josephites. The church caused by Jason W. Briggs. from Wm. Smith’s Church and Zenos H. Gurley from J.J. Strang’s Church. Uniting and Organized Church. Brigg’s Revelation. To reject polygamy that was taught by Wm. Smith, and teach Bible, Book of Mormon and Doctrine and Covenants. The prophet J.S } Received Nov. 18, 1857. was killed June 27. } Reorg. His. Vol. 3 P. 200. 1844 [9] Zenos H. Gurley’s “Revelation.” Spring of 1850. 1. While meditating on Isaiah, chapters 1, 2, 3 and ashamed of following Strang, received a revelation to rise up and cast off all who claim to be prophets, preach the Bible, B. of M. & D. & C. at Yellowstone Branch West Wis. 2. David Powell arrives with Brigg’s Revelation not accepted. 3. Fifteen days after, Gurley’s daughter speaks in tongues. After prayer Spirit says: - Seed of Joseph Smith is future prophet. 4. Accepts Briggs’ revelation. R. H. Vol. 3. P. 204-9 Daughter’s revelation R.H. Vol. 3 P. 207-8 D.H. Deam’s Revelation. Forgot to read it. R.H. Vol. 3 p. 735. Revelation in full, R.H. Vol. 3. 2-7-8. } 219 Greatest to preside R.H. Vol. 3 p } 213 } 223 } 223 [10] J.W. Briggs presided R.H. Vol. 3 p. 223. Greatest did not preside “ “ p. 223. Greatest In age Priesthood. R.H. Vol. 3 1. Z.H. Gurley Seventy “ “ p. 733 2. H.H. Deam H. Priest “ “ 784 3. J.W. Briggs Elder “ “ 739 “ “ “ “ “ p 225 Z.H. Gurley died in R.C. R.H. Vol 3 p. 627 “ “ “ “ “ “ “ 748. H.H. Deam cut off “ 230-1 J.W. Briggs “ “ “ 741. Josephite Revlations. Compare.. Utah Edition R. Church edition Doc. & Cov. Reorg. D. & C. Sec. 28: 2-7 Sec. 27 : 2 “ 43: 1-7 “ 43: 1-2 But one revelation approved by Joseph Smith. [11] Articles of Faith R.H. Vol. 2 –p. 570. 1. Reorganized Apostles. R.H. Vol 3. Deam (cut off) {230 {231 {736 J.W. Briggs (cut off) 741 Z.H. Gurley (faithful) 747 Reuben Newkirk (dropped) 749 John Cunningham (cut off) {230 {231 George White (dropped) {750 {223 {411 D.B. Racey (dropped {233 {422 {751 Reorganization. Organized R.H. Vol. 3 p. 218-19 Articles of Incorporation p 709 No. of people Temple Lot suit p. 39. Full No. in Church 300 “ 39. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Josephite argument of No. in Church in 1844-1845. In 1896 F.D. Richards makes state- ment that all in the exodus to S.L.C. was 27 000. D. Rupp say chr. consisted of 15,0,00 [12] Exclamation of Prophet Joseph Smith to Henry Clay: Great God to transport 150,000 souls to Rocky Mountains would cost $400,000. Josephites makes question on 15,0000 that it is only 2/15 of Church. Answer. 1. Rupp’s statement doubtful. 2. Joseph Smith’s statement no date is given. He was strung to high pitch. Only figurative. 3. No justified, no evidence in Church history anywhere. F.D. Richards made allowance for other leaders. No exact know- ledge given as to number of Church. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - When driven from Missouri where saints had been gathering since 1831 the highest estimate is 12 or 13000. Geo. Q. Adams to “Boston Bee” in March 15, 1843 gives number in the [13] U.S. as 50,000 British Isles 20,000 corrected by editor 10,000 T. & S. Vol. 4 p. 142. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Six or seven thousand followed Strang, Smith and others. Temple Lot Suit. Joseph Number 300 in 1860 p. 39. If 150,000 was Number where did they go to? ________________________________________ Whom Organizers followed Deam followed Strang R.H. Vol. 3 p. 735 Gurley “ “ “ “ 744. Briggs “ “ “ 737. Marks “ “ “ 723. Wm Smith “ “ “ 723. Followed Wm Smith Briggs R.H. Vol. 3 p. 738. Marks From this it appears that Briggs was in and out of several fractions of Church yet Josephites hold him in full faith. Temple Lot suit p. 196, 197. [14] Thus we have lost nothing by following Brigham Young. We are in full faith in Reorg. Church 1st Conference held R.H. Vol. 3. First conference held June 1852 at Beloit Wisconsin. R.H. Vol. 3. p. 209. 2 nd Oct. 6, 1852 “ “ 213. 3. Zarahemla Apr. 6, 1852 “ 218. Briggs presides. Revelation under resolution says highest in Priesthood presides p. 213. Briggs presides only Elder. Vol. 3 p 737. Ill feeling manifest – a disunion at reorganization – A woeful time. Young Joseph Smith to preside over Mormon Church R.H. Vol. 3 p. 264. [15] Young Joseph’s letter to Wm. Marks: I am soon going to take my father’s place at the head of the Mormon Church. xxxx I am somewhat undecided as to the best course for me to pursue and if your views are, uon comparison in unison with mine and we can agree as to the best course I would be pleased to have your cooperation. A man-made agreement anticipated. ___________________________ Young Joseph’s Pledge. p. 150 Joseph Smith accepts the Church presented by Gurley with peculiar notions as to Revelations. He says: I pledge myself to promulgate no doctrine that will not be accepted by you (the people) [15] or the code of good morals. At Ampoy conference. Apr. 6, 1860. R.H. Vol. 3 p. 247-50 Where was the Church and prophet Dan. 2: 46-47. _____________________________ Gurley presents the Church to Joseph Smith in the name of Jesus Christ. Mormon Church His. p. 764/ R.H. Vol 3 p 247 <(247> ____________________________________________ History of J.W. Briggs. Baptized June 6, 1841 by Elder O. Clark. Visited Navoo once (1843) Priesthood only Elder Fellowshiped with B.Young until 1846 Raises up Yellow Stone branch. R.H. Vol 3 <738> Joines Strang in 1849. R.H. Vol 3. 738 He follows Wm. Smith who teaches polygamy R.H. Vol 3. p. 738. An Apostle to Strang. Ordained Josephite Apostle p. 739 [17] Briggs ordained by {H.H. Deam {Z.H. Gurley {Reuben Newkirk Pretended Revelation Nov. 8, 1857. Withdraws from R.C. Apr. 8, 1886. Cut off. R. His. Vol. 3 p. 230-p.741. Died at Harris Colorado Jan 11, 1899. History of Zenos H. Gurley. R.H. Vol 3. Born at Bridge Water N.Y. May 29, 1801. R. C. Prominent man. One of first Seven Apostles. Ordained Elder by Blakeslee. 743 Ordained Seventy by Strang 743 On mission for Strang. On 1850 raises up 208 persons. Yellowstone branch for Strang 745 “ “ nucleus of the Reorganized Church 745 Branch was taught that Strang was Joseph Smith’s legal successor Vol. 3 R.H. p 207. [18] Not one belonged to first church Presided over branch by authority of Strang. Vol. 3 p. 745. Strang teaches polygamy 745. Is ashamed of Strang 206. Withdraws from all pretended leaders, viz., Strang, B. Young, Wm Smith, Colin Brewster, Alpheus Cutler, & Lyman Wight & others. Gifts of tongues by whom R.H. 3 746. Ordained Josephite Apostle. Apr. 8, 1852. Ordained by {J.W. Briggs {H.H. Deam {Reuben Newkirk. R.H. Vol. 3 p. 746. Died Aug. 28, 1871 at Joy Station. Briggs said either son would do to lead them or all the sons. p. 212. [19] Wm. Marks History At the death of the Prophet J. Smith Marks was Pres. of the Nauvoo Stake R.H. Vol. 3 p. 721. Born Rutland Vermont Nov. 15, 1792. In Sept 3, 1837 was chosen member of High Council at Kirtland P. 721. Acts as agt. on Church lands P. 72 & 722. Oct. 3, 1839 choses pres. of Stake 722. Feb. 1, 1841 Elected alderman at Nauvoo. Disfellowshiped Oct. 1844 on account of transgression R.H. Vol. 3 p. 723. Marks follows Rigdon for awhile, but renounces him p. 723. Follows Strang Vol. 3 p. 723. Became Bishop and member of H. Council of Strang & became coun- selor to Strang in 1849 and in June 11, 1859 was received into the Reorganization upon his original baptism and his ordination as high priest was recognized. R.H. Vol 3. p. 724. [20] After death of Strang Marks formed a connection with Apostle C.B. Thompson’s faction He was constantly changing but Josephites say he held his Priest- hood. _________________________________ W.W. Blair Never did belong to the original church. Oct. 8, 1851 he joins Wm Marks. In 1855 he met J.E. Page, Wm Marks John Gaylord, John Landers, Russel Ho[--] and others. R. His. Vol 3. p. 727 Joined temporary organization with them until 1856. R.H. Vol 3 p 728. In 1857 attends annual conference held at Zarahemla on Apr. 7. and is baptized by Gurley on 8 p. 729. Was ordained to office of High Priest Oct. 7, 1857 p 729 Ordained Apostle RH vol 3 p 729 [21] Wm Mark’s testimony. After mature and candid de- liberation, I am fully and satis factorily convinced that Mr Sydney Rigdon’s claim to the Presidency of the church of Latter-day Saints are not founded in truth. I have been deceived by his spurious pretences, and now feel to warn every one over whom I may have any influence to be ware of him. and his pretended revelations. The twelve are the proper persons to lead the Church. Wm. Marks Nauvoo, Dec. 9, 1844. Times and seasons Vol. 5 P 742. Marks was a counselor to Strang. R. His. Vol. 3 p 723-4. Read Reorg. His. Vol. 3 p. 265. [22] Prophecy. Removal of the Saints. On Sunday 25, 1844 in a meet- ing of the Saints at the assembly room in Nauvoo, Joseph Smith, the prophet, prophecied that within five years the Saints would be out of the power of their old enemies whether apostates or of the world, and he asked the brethren to re- cord it. History of Joseph Smith by George Q. Cannon P. 447. Mill. Star.Vol. 19 p. 630 Aug. 6, 1842 More evidence on p 302 Message to Congress-Church organ- ization 100,000 men to settle west. [23] Church never to Fall. D and C. Re[--] D & C. Sec. 1 - 25-27 Sec. 1 – 7 “ 38-39 “ 34-6 “ 65 - 2 √ “ 65 “ 112-30 √ “ 105-12 “ 24-19 “ 23-7 “ 90-2-5 “ 87-1-2 “ 49-24 “ 49-5 “ 97-21 Name R.H. Vol 3 p 108 Oct 1 “ 117-8-9 2 p 151-704 “ 115-34 2 P 47-157 Isaiah 2:1-4 Dan. 2: 44-48 Lyman Wight said more than once he declared that the Church would remain organized after he (Joseph Smith) was taken away - Address Joseph Smith R.H. Vol. 2 p. 790 How about 16 year’s break 1844 to 1860 and then reorganized. [24] Keys to Joseph Smith. Utah D of C. Reorg – D. of C. Sec. 20:1-4 Sec. 20: 1-4 “ 27: 12-13 “ 26: 3 “ 28: 2-7 “ 27:2 “ 112:15 “ 105:6 “ 90:1-5 “ 87:1-7 “ 124:127-8 : 107:40 Dan. 2:44 Isaiah 2:2-4 “ 4:2-5 See D & C. Sec. 90 Given Mar. 8, 1833. History of J.J. Strang. Baptized Feb. 25, 1844 Vol 3 RH p 36. Not much known until after the death of the prophet. Claimed letter of appointment from Prophet Joseph. RH. Vol. 3 p 36. Refuses revelation when Joseph is to appoint another p 36. Claimed angel of God ordains him June 27, 1844. P. 38. [25] Claims to have found plates of Laban – Book of law was translated p. 39. 8 published that seven witnesses saw plates. With scattered members built up Voice, Wisconsin. Claims Voice was the gathering place. The twelve knew nothing of the revelation. John E. Page supports Strang also John E. Bennett. Strang proclaimed king R.H. Vol. 3 p 47. Moved to Beaver Island on Lake Michigan R.H. Vol. 3 P. 45 P. 158 [26-27: pages are blank] [28] 1 Benson, June 21 – 1916. Having filled my other Redord I now begin another with a greatful heart for all the blessings we are enjoying, all the family being well, having plenty to eat, clothes to wear and a comfortable home in which to dwell. William was married on the seventh of this month to Winifred Foster, He and wife are now attending summer school at Albion, Idaho. Naoma is in Fillmore with her husband, A.P. Anderson. Our daughter Anna and her husband and two chil- dren, Evelyn and Weldon are living in Weston, Ione [29] 2 is at home with us. Sarah Wanda and Leland Ashcroft, her husband, are living in a comfortable home in Hyde Park Roland, Andrea, Gordon, Arvel, Norma, Lowell and Ruth are fine children as the others are and I hope they may grow up as intel ligent and good as their older sisters & brother. We are having a much needed beautiful rain this longest day in the year. The year, so far has been rather peculiar. We had a late frost that froze the lucern and some of the early sugar beets and was most destructive on the fruit. [30] 3 The outlook for hay to feed during the coming winter is discouraging. on account of the frost and the alfalfa weevil. We shall get along O.K. never- the less as: - “We have always been provided for And we shall always be.” 1934 1916 28 yr. [31] 4 Benson, Aug. 28 – 1916. The fifteenth inst being the fiftyninth annaverary of my birth, all my children in- cluding my son-in-law, John F. Reeder were present at our home. I also went to Logan and got mother in my auto. Naoma came up from Fillmore and Anna and her husband came down from Weston. It was a sourse of joy to me to have them with us and all were well & happy. They staid several days with us. On the 20th I took Anna and her children Evylen, Weldon home in the Auto. Carrie and some of the children went too. At the present writing Naoma is here with us. She has to leave soon as she begins teach- [32] 5 ing in the Lavan High school on the 5th of Sept. Last evening we had a very enjoyable time in having the Seventies of Hyde Park and their wives meet with us in our sacrament meeting. Benson. Nov. 6-1916. Nearly four months have elap- sed since writing the foregoing. In the mean time we have been very busy most of the time, getting our crops secured and harvesting our sugar beets. We succeeded in getting the sugar factory people to put in a scales and allowing us to pile our beets with the under- standing that if the inter urban was not put through to haul this year’s crop that we would haul them later on when not so busy [33] 6 I am employed to do the weighing. We now have nearly five thousand tons in the pile which is said to be the best shaped pile in the Co. as well as the best looking beets. Roland has done my hauling and Gordon plowed them out. Our beets were all in last Thurs. morning, Nov. 2, for which we have occasion to be very thankful as we are now having quite a fall of snow, which may make beet-digging very difficult. Of late we are in the midlst of a very exciting campaign with Woodrow Wilson Pres. of the U.S. on one side & Chas. E. Hughes, a candidate on the Republican ticket for President. Our sympathies are with the present President. [34] 7 There is also a sharp fight going on as to who will be elected gov. Simon Bamberger is the candidate of the Democratic party and Nephi L. Morris of the Republican party. Strenuous efforts are being made by both sides to have their various candidate elected. Yesterday our son Wm & his wife and Ione were home to visit us. Wm. is teaching in Lewiston in the Stephensen district and Ione is teach- ing in Providence. So far as we know all our children are well & prospering. The great European war is still raging, ships are being sunk, people killed by thous- ands and property is being destroyed to an alarming extent. [35] 8 Benson Dec. 22 – 1916. Our dear daughter Ione was married today to Newel Munk in the Salt Lake temple. Today I drove our car to Logan and took Andrea & Gordon along and they made many purchases. I bought a $15000 Graphonola and brought it home in the car. On the 19th. inst. Benice Smith died of pneumonia. We are grieved very much at her de- parture as she was such a lady-like, sweet little girl. The grief of the parents is great and our sympathies go our to them. We are having ideal winter weather and the moving of our 5448 tons of sugar beets from the pile is going on nicely. [36] 9 Benson, Dec. 31, 1916. On Christmas day Naoma and her husband, Ione and her husband and all of Carrie’s children were with us to take dinner. We were all well, with the exception of Arvel and Lowell who were afflicted with some of the after effects of Measels. Ruth had a severe attack of measels and suffered afterward with measels. On Thursday Andrew, Naoma, Ione and I went to Hyde Park. Carrie went as far as Smithfield and staid with her sick father. Wm. Winnie came while we were away and remained with us until noon when they left for Whitney. We were glad to have our children with us. Sarah Wanda & babe are getting along nicely Jno & Anna Reeder & children are well. How thankful we should be. [37] 10 Benson, Jan. 18 – 1917. On the 13, inst. we moved the last of our 5448 tons of beets to the Benson station. I hauled the last of them, We worked early and late notwithstanding the temperature was many points below zero. We did the hauling on sleighs hauling from 3 to 6 tons. I averaged over 5 ½ tons, Some are hauling gravel for the pumping plant in lower Benson others are hauling pulp. Roland hauled nearly 6 tons today with two span on the bobs; the ther- mometer registered 20º below zero today We are surely having cold weather. Last Sun. our ward conference was held in the Benson meeting-house Pres. O.H. Budge and Geo W. Lindquist were visitirs to our conference We had a good time but few were in attendance comparatively. [38] 11 I wrote a copious account of the conference to The Journal and the Logan Republican. The Utah Legislature is now in session. Gov. Simon Bamburger delivered his address to the Legislature in which he mentioned many matters for the consideration of that body among which was that of Prohibition. He urged economy and conservatism in the consider- ation of the interest of our state, We have had an epidemic of measels that have made it necessary to suspend our re- ligious gatherings among which has been our Sabbath School. The red flags have been taken down and we can now re- sume our work Roland was ordained a teacher at priesthood meeting last evening. [39] 12 Benson, Feb. 25 – 1917. On the 21, inst we had a most bluster- ous day; in fact it was a regular blizzard with a heavy fall of snow. We had on that day about 3 ft. of snow on the level and in many places the snow was piled up as high as the fences. On the 21, I wrote a letter to the Journal and one to The Logan Republican also a few stanzas of poetry. The Journal in introducing the lines said: Mark Twain remarked once that he new a man who could find humor in an attack of the cramp. Our friend, W.G. Reese seems to be such a person for while, but emphatically complaining about the weather, he breaks into song about it thus: The poem follows – [40] 13 Do not feel so downhearted, my brother, This cold weather won’t always last, The springtime will make its appearance, And then we’ll forget the cold past. Do not let the deep snow cause a wrincle, To form on your brow or your cheek, The sun and the south wind together, Will hurry it off down the creek. You look now on snowbanks and wonder, If spring days will ever appear, If the whistling winds, cold and chilly Will claim a large share of the year. The weather man often you censure; You think he is very unkind, For allowing unpleasant conditions To trouble your body and mind. Just forget it and feel an assurance That the future has good times in store, [41] 14 When the grains and the grasses and flowers, In abundance will serve as of yore. So cheerrup and laugh and be happy, And thank the good Lord you are here, Just call up the blessings around you, To help and to comfort and cheer. “The sun may be shining tomorrow Although it’s been cloudy today.” Is a song that you sang in your childhood And it helped you along on life’s way. Again sing this song – sing it louder, ‘Twill drive away sadness & gloom, And your vision of life will be broader, Optomistic ideas will bloom. So do not feel daunted, my brother, And think the day black as the night; For he who takes care of the sparrow, will overrule all things aright. [42] 15 Yesterday and today we are having a very strong southwind and a little rain so the snow is going off very fast. This morning I took a load to Sunday School and the road is getting almost bare. If this weather continues we shall soon have bare ground, which will be a great blessing, as some people are very short of feed. Yesterday and the day before I was in Logan and the streets were full of snow and slush which made it hard to get around. The passenger traffic on the interurban was quite heavy. Tues. & Wed. & Thurs. last the weather was so bad and the snow do deep the trains could not run regularly and some of the time not at all especially across the divide on through the canyon. On the 15, ist, it being the 84 anna- versary of mother’s birth, we seven brothers and our wives met at Andrews, where [43] 16 mother is staying and spent a pleasant evening. Dear mother is suffering a good deal from a fall she had some time ago when staying at Chas. A’s. The fall caused a rupture of her right eye and has destroyed the eyesight. Many infirmities seem to be the legacy of old age. The Utah legislature is busily en- gaged in working on numerous bill. We are glad to have a prohibition law now, which we trust will put down the liquor business. Governor Simon Banburger signed the Young bill after the Clause providing for a commissioner was eliminated. [44] 17 Benson. Mar. 10-1917. It is snowing again today and the snow is very deep on the ground. Yesterday we had a heavy wind and a heavy snow- storm. People are grumbling a great deal about the bad weather, which, of course, does a lot of good? On Thursday last the soldier boys of troop H. arrived in Logan and there was a big reception for them. On the 1st of this month mother came up to stay with us. At times she suffers a good deal with her eye that was injured by her fall some months ago. The tention existing between the U.S. and Germany is very unpleasant as it may result in war at any time. We hope and pray that it may not come, rather we would have peace established among the warring nations. [45] 18 Benson. Mar. 25-1917. We have had a regular blizzard today, which was very unwelcome as the snow is already very deep and cattlemen are getting quite discouraged onaccount of lack of feed. Every one’s cry is lack of feed for their animals and some are going so far as to kill their animals. Mother has suffered a good deal today but is better tonight. We are all well and so are our children who are absent as far as we know. It looks like we shall have war with Germany. Or- ders have been given and contracts let for the building of submarines and battleships. [46] 19 Benson. Mar 26-1917. The weather this morning is cold and the snow is still deep. The sun is coming out bright and clear with no clouds. Carrie went to Smithfield to take Andrew to school and to see her father who is still ill. On Fri. night Carrie and I went to Logan to hear the concert of Harrie’s music Co. which was held in the taberna cle, Elizabeth Spenser and Alexander Bond were there to demonstrate the accuracy with which the Edison talk- ing machine can reproduce the human voice and instru- ments. It was excellent. The Tab. was filled to overflowing. Mother is with us and seems to be much better. I am taking care of her today. [47] 20 Benson. Apr. 4-1917. We still have a lot of snow, and, while the days are quite warm, the nights are so cold that the snow is going very slowly. Carrie and I went to Logan yesterday to arrange for conference. We expect to go down tomorrow on the O.L. & I. Feed gets scarcer and scarcer every day, and it look bad for the future unless we have the cars of hay sent in that are expected. Brother A.J and wife left for a trip today; they go to Cal. We received a letter from John and Ann Eliza Reeder today. Annie has been poorly in health but is getting better. We received a phone message from William on Mon. Apr. 2, say- ing he was the father of a fine son born at 11 o’clock that day. Mother and babe were doing fine [48] 21 On April 1, I wrote news itims of Benson to The Journal and The Logan Republican. I also sent the following lines. Hope Hope! what would life be without thee? Dark and dismal – black as night. But thy rays, illuminating, Make our pathway clear and bright. When the storm clouds When the stormclouds thickly gather And our plans are all upset; And our indignations rises Leading us to fume and fret, When Old Winter’s claims are lengthened Far beyond our expectations And supplies are downward going To a point of meagre rations; Were it not for hope – fair omen. We should falter on life’s way [-] So aloud we sing the praises – Cheerer of life’s darkest day. [49] 22 Benson, Apr. 11-1917. It has been raining this forenoon, but now 1-30 p.m. the sun is beginning to shine. On Thurs. Apr. 5 Carrie and I went to Salt Lake City, via the interurban route Chas. & Mary. T.H. and Maggie, A.V. and Rhoda, Dave & Lyle, Bp. Howard Reese & wife, M.E. Rogers & wife, Philip Purser & wife, W.J. Funk & wife, EA Parsons & wife, John W. Ricks & his mother, & sister Mrs. Barrett Geo Reese, Otto Beutler also went. There was a large crowd from Cache went down to conference. The Reese’s staid at the Lemloh, Lee Reese & wife also went down. On the 3 of Apr. AJ Reese & wife & son Foster started on a trip to Oregon by way of Cal. They intend to visit their relatives including Libbie’s parents. We had a fine time at Conference, There were many thousands of people in the city from different parts of the U.S. Pres. Smith presided. [50] 23 The weather was most delightful snow snow, but when we got back home the snow was quite deep but in two days after it was all gone. It is doubtful if ever so much snow in Cache Co. went off in one day as went last Tues, since the valley was settled. We certainly appreciate bare ground after the long winter. [51] 24 Benson, May 22-1917 We have had a nice rain, it began raining Sat. afternoon, May 20; and has rained mostly ever since. I had 10 a. of sugar beets drilled in on Sat, so now I have 15 acres in. Had it not rained I should have had 7 acres more ready today. How- ever the rain will no doubt do much good. The rivers are raging and the outlook is that we shall have higher waters still so that much damage may result. Yesterday Carrie and I attended the funeral services of Mrs. Syl- vester Low. The attendance was large and the services very good. The floral decorations were beautiful. Mother is still with us feeling quite well. Ione and her hus- band have been with us a [52] 25 few days and today they are gathering up their belongings in Benson and are moving to Richmond today where they are going to start housekeeping. Roland is moving them. It is rather trying to have our sons and daughters leave the “homestead”. The war is still raging with small prospects of it quitting for some time to come. The sentiment throughout the country is growing strong in favor of industry. [53; page is blank] [54; page is written upside down] Benson, May 28 I returned from Salt Lake City on the 26 with A.J. and Libbie & A.V. & Rhoda A.V. took us down to get our glasses on We expected to be the 23 on the 25 but the Co, which ground the glasses had the misfortune to break A.J.’s which delayed us another day. The Religion class officers took their classes to the temple on the 23 to be baptized for the dead. Norma and Lowell were each baptized for twenty Norma was invited to play the organ for the singing at the temple and got along fine in doing so. [55] 26 Benson, June 1-3 – 1917 Yesterday I disked up ten acres of my sugar beets due to a very faulty stand on account of contin- uous rains for about 10 days after planting and poor seed. T.H., my brother, helped me do the disking and Roland did the leveling. Today I drilled them in and I think I did a very good job and the land is in better condition than I ever had land before. The lateness of the season makes it rather uncertain about a good yield. However we shall find out in time and I shall make note from time to time of the condition of the crop Grandma is still staying with us and is feeling pretty well but unable to get around. We are all well & hearty. [56] 27 Naoma has been visiting with us over a week. She is looking and feeling well. Naoma and Wanda went to Richmond today to see Ione, who now resides with her husband in Richmond, where he is practicing dentistry. The crops are looking pretty good especially the alfalfa. Last night we had a frost but too slight to do damage. Willis H. Reese enlisted in the army last Sat. and went to Salt Lake City after successfully passing an examination in Logan, but he was rejected in S.L.C. on accout of being flat footed. The war is still raging & the U-boats are still doing their mischief. U.S. soldiers are now on the battlefield of France [57] 28 Benson June 16 – 1917. On the 12th. inst. Harold Jenson was taken to Logan and operated upon for apendicites at 1 o’clock A.M. Now he is in a very precarious condition, the doctors say the chance of his recovery is very meagre. Harald died and was buried in Logan. I spoke at his funeral. Benson Aug. 20-1917 Time passes along and brings many changes. Many of our boys have been drafted into the terrible war that is raging and that we are hoping and praying will come to a close soon. As Naoma and her husband were up here from Fillmore, it was decided to have a [58] 29 family gathering in honor of my <60th> birthday on Aug. 14- A.P. and Naoma Anderson, John and Ann Eliza Reeder and their two children Evelyn and Weldon, Newel and Ione Munk, Leland and Wanda Ashcrof and babe. W.G. jr. and Winnie and babe were all here with us inclulding Grandma; Carrie, Roland, Andrew, Gordon Arvel, Norma, Lowell, and Ruth = 24 in all. We had a very enjoyable gathering. On Sun. Aug. 12 the family all motored to Richmond and took dinner with Newel & Ione, At this writing we have got up our meadow hay, our second crop of lucern and are now hauling our wheat Still have two loads to haul be sides oats and barley not yet cut [59] 30 On July 23 our friend R.B.T. Taylor and his wife and their nephews Reed and Chauncy Cannon came up from S.L.C. and spent the Twenty fourth with us. Today Carrie and some of the other wives of the Reese Bros. have been cleaning up mother’s room as she is going home to live for a while She has been with us since Mar 1st She is much better in health now than she was then. [60] 31 Benson, Aug. 31 – 1917. Yesterday T.H.; A.V.; and I finished putting up Jas. Quayle’s hay on shares. We started last Monday. We have put up two stacks. We are having beautiful weather. Mother is going to move home today; she has been with us 6 mo. Sister Emily Weakley spent 4 days visiting with us. The terrible war is still on. The Austrians and the Germans are driving the Russians and the Italians are driving the Austrians and seem to have a good chance to capture Viena [61] 32 Benson, Oct. 27 – 1917 Tonight we are all lit up with electricity. It certainly looks fine. We have burning 655 wats. It seemed that they were slow in getting in the electric light as we were promised them early in the summer; but now we have the light we appreciate it the more. Yesterday Roland finished hauling our sugar beets. I am weighing beets and we have taken in at the East Benson nearly 4000 tons for the Amalga- mated Co. Gottfried Beutler is doing the tareing. The crop is not as good as last year accor- ding to the acreage, but we had a larger acreage. Gordon has plowed out my beets & Arvel has been general chore boy. Andrea is attending the B.Y. College; [62] 33 she registered on the 25th of Sept. On Sept. 23 A.V. Reese & wife and Carrie and I returned from a five days’ trip to LaVan. We had a very pleasant trip in our Case car not having had one minute’s trouble, although the last day it rained hard on us most of the time. We feared we should have trouble crossing the divide but did not.Aat LaVan we had a short but pleasant visit with Naoma & her husband. At Provo we visited the mental hospital. We were much interested in what we saw In Salt Lake we went through the State Capital. It is cer- tainly grand. The Governor’s re- caption room cost $65,000.00 From the man in charge of the building we received a card telling the following: [63] 34 Rug made in Scotland 22 x 48 cost $3500 Curtain Florance Italy per pair $250 Portier hangings, each window $2250 Chandeliers Utah silver & gold $7300 Furniture Causassion walnut table $1750 Murial Painting, by Paul Chittle $5000 Utah Birds’ Eye Marble used in this room. Tapestry per yard $3600 Total cost of capital $2,739,528.54. I have seem the finest buildings in Australia and England, including the British House of Parliament but have never seen a building more grand. I attended conference in S.L.C on Oct. 6 and attended the Austra- lian gathering and there met many friends including Bro. Allen N. Tanner. The gathering at Conference was the largest ever. It was a fine conference Andrew and Naoma were up from LaVan. [64] 35 Benson, Nov. 25, 1917. It started to rain yesterday afternoon and gave us quite a shower thus mak- ing it difficult to haul beets from the pile to the factory, a job we have been at over two weeks now, Roland hauls 5 ½, 6, 6 3/4 tons per day at $1 00 per ton. There are about 20 teams hauling. Yesterday afternoon I took Carrie, Gordon and Arvel to Logan to get winter supplies of shoes & clothes. The road across the cut-off was quite sleek but we got through O.K. Came back by way of Smithfield. It rained quite hard on us the last half of the trip. Today it is stormy but we went to Sunday school in the Auto. but at the meeting-house my car slipped and the right front wheel went off the bridge at the entrance to the meeting-house lot, but no damage was. Sam Hobbs pulled me out. [65] 36 Today is Carrie’s birthday; she is 41 years of age having been born in 1876, We are invited to take dinner at the home of John W. Rees and wife. We expect to go. I am very thankful to say that we are all in the enjoyment of good health. and fairly pros- perous. We now have the electric lights in our home and an electric pump that furnishes water for our home giving us a good preassure. We find it a great convenience of the hand pumping. The pump works automatically and never needs any attention. Our modern conveniences are very good, but we have to work hard to pay for them. The war is still raging and thous- ands are loosing their lives, [66] 37 Benson, Jan. 2, 1918- We are now entering upon another year and we trust many trying conditions in the world will come to an end e’er the present year comes to a close. We hope an honorable world peace wil be es- tablished. The past year has had many things happen that have been distressing, such as the sinking of hundreds of ships with the loss of thousands of lives. The Halifax disaster was a shock to the world, the distruction of lives and property by fires, accidents, incendiaries, earth- quakes all give evidence that we are certainly living in perilous times. Notwithstanding these things we have much for which to be very thank- ful in the way of prosperity & plenty. As a family we are all enjoying the best of health, and have been favored with the opportunity fo spending pleasant [67] 38 times together during the holidays Naoma and her husband came up from Lavan and spent several days with us. John & Anna, Newel & Ione, Leland & Wanda were here with us Christmas having come Christmas Eve and brought many nice presents. Wm. & Winnie were not able to be with us Xmas but they called to see us Monday last. and they were well. The weather is still very fine, no snow or frost and auto travel is pretty good – Yesterday We went to Smithfield to see Father Anderson and from there we drove to Logan and spent a short time and them came home after having a pleasant ride. On Friday last we finished hauling our beet pile for which we were very glad. The West Cache pile is being moved now and may be all moved this week. [68] 39 Benson, Feb. 7- 1918. It has been snowing hard this morning and is still snowing now at 12.30. We have had very little snow this winter and not much cold weather On Jan. 31 and Feb 1. we had the coldest weather being 16 ½ º below zero. It soon got warmer and while it would freeze at night the roads would thaw during the day. On Thurs. last we had a fine ward reun- ion and on Friday a gathering of the S.S. chil- dren who were given a dance & picnic. On Sat. Carrie and I attended a gathering of the members of the Society of Equity where a good program and banquet were furnished by the management out of the dividends. Had a fine time. I staid with my brother Chas. A. Sat. night so I would be in Logan in time to attend the S.S. convention of the Cache, Hyrum & Benson stakes the following day. On the 3rd of Feb. the Convention was held and many good things were taught. [69] 40 The terrible war is still on and many are loosing their lives daily and many are getting wounded. The Russians are still in a bad condition internally as a condition of anarchy prevails to a great extent. The Americans are now in Europe fighting the Germans & Austrians. Some have been killed. There is a good deal of trouble in the American Congress, some claiming that the war matters have been poorly managed especially by Sec’y Baker, while other members of Congress say things are just as good as could be expected. It seems to me that the contentious stand of Chamberlain, Hitchcock and others are damaging to our cause. On Mon. I received my $400 Libery Bond and Roland his $100. Gordon and Arvel have each secured four war Stamps & I bought one for Norma and one for Andrea last Monday. We expect to do all in our power to help win the war with the Allies, Germany must be conquered. [70] 41 Benson, Feb. 18 – 1918 Last night and today we are having the heaviest fall of snow by far we have had before this winter. It is still snowing and drifting. Yesterday was warm and the snow on the roads was gone. Last week was one of pleasure for the East Benson people as we had an evening gathering at the homes of R.O. Reese, Bp. Howard Reese two evenings, and at the home of Jonathan Smith. On Thurs. Carrie entertained at dinner, our old neighbors, Mr. & Mrs. Nephi Martineau and Bp. & Mrs. Howard Reese. Mother passed her 85th birthday on the 15th. inst She is feeling fine for her age. The investigation in the U.S. Congress of Sec’y Baker’s management of war mat- ters proved that Baker had managed affairs as well as could be expected of any man under existing conditions. [71] 42 Benson. Apr. 2 – 1918. The weather has been ideal to date but now we are having a cold noth wind and a little snow. We have planted some garden & done a little farm work including the hauling out of firtilizers on the land. We are all in the enjoyment of good health. Father Anderson is daily growing weaker and his long spell of illness has reduced him to a mere skeleton. He is very desirous to pass from the pains and aches of mortality. The terrible war in Europe is still raging with terrible slaughter on both sides. The Germans are using a gun that shoots over 60 miles. The Teutons have been on the offensive and have driven the Allies back but the tables are turning – So may it be. [72] 43 Benson, May 4 – 1918 On April 26 father Soren Anderson died at 4 o’clock a.m. at his home in Smithfield and was buried in the Smithfield cemetary on the 28. He was born in the year 1834 Oct 30. so he was 83 and ½ years old. Funeral services were held in the 2nd ward Tabernacle where he served as janitor sixteen years during which time he was ever faithful to duty as he was to every thing he undertook to do. Of the family there were present – Andrew, Soren, Mary Seeley and Carrie A Reese – his children, and their wives & husbands and several grandchildren. The speakers at the funeral were Peter Hanson, C.J. Plowman, Sylvester Low and Bp. Wm Winn all of whom spoke in the highest terms of father Andersons noble qualities. He was sure a good faithful man and a true L.D.S. [73] 44 One week and one hour from the time of father Anderson’s death, mother’s spirit took its departure of mortality as she died Friday morning at 5 oclock May 2. When we drove down to see mother Sunday evening after attending the funeral of father Anderson mother remarked to me – Well, the dear old gentleman has been released from the cares, pains and troubles of mortality to and was buried today Next Sunday you will lay me away to rest. I asked her if it was her desire to go and she said “yes I long to be free from the incumbrances of this mortal body and to meet the dear ones on the other side. Her favorite quotation was: - I’m willing to be chastened and bear my daily cross, I’m willing to be clensed from every kind of dross [74] 45 All needful tribulation, I’m willing to pass through. All needful tribulations & count them my just due (See hymn – Farewell all Earthly honors &C.) It was mother’s oft repeated desire to pass away when the weather was fine and the roads good and she has had her desire granted – Tomorrow we shall lay dear mother’s remains away in the silent tomb tomorrow Benson, May 5, dear mother was laid to rest. The funeral was large there being over 60 loaded automobiles. The floral offerings were generous and most beautiful. The speakers were truly generous in their eulogies all telling of their love and admiration of dear mother. The singing was appropriate and well ren- dered and the instrumental music by Chas & Frank Harris and S.B. Mitt[-]n was touching and beautiful. [75] 46 The speakers were Elders H.W. Ballard, N.W. Kimball. George Barber Dr. George Thomas, R.B.T. Taylor, Bp. Howard Reese. Pres. Joseph [-]. Quinney of the Cache Stake presidency and Mrs. Orson Smith of the Stake Relief Society Brother K Hatch Mrs. E.B. Lundquist, of Smithfield accompanied by the Har[--]s Bros on their violins and Prof Mitten on the piano, sang most touchingly. Mrs. Annie Ricks sang very sweetly, with the choir singing the chorus.- Not Half Has Ever Been Told. Opening prayer was offered by Bp. Chas. G. Hyde and Bp. Chas England pronounced the benediction. Elder Henry T. Rogers dedicated the grave. As a family we can never for- get the love, sympathy and friendship shown us by our numerous friends. and when sorrow comes to any of them I trust we shall manifest the [76] 47 same consideration for them as we were shown. The Relief Society of Benson dr[-]w up the following resolutions. Whereas our Heavenly Father has seen fit to call from this stage of action one of our beloved sisters, Sarah G. Reese, we the Relief Society of Benson of which she was a faithful president for many years, feel to bow in submission to the Lord’s will. Therefore be it resolved that – We the members of this society do hereby express our sorrow in the great loss of our devoted sister. And be it further resolved that we spread upon our minutes a copy of these resolution and that a copy be sent to each member of her family, expressing our sym- pathy. Mary Munk, Elvira Ballard and Libbie Reese – Presidency. [77] 48 Benson May 13 – 1918 Today I planted the last of my beets about 4 acres. The weather is warm and the ground is getting quite dry. Richard O. is plowing up some of the beets he planted early as the ground was too wet and is now hard. Last evening we Carrie & I went up to hear a musical entertainment given by the Logan choir in honor of Prof. Evan Stephens. He was present and gave a brief account of the circumstances under which each piece sang was written as he was the author of every number sang He also gave a brief sketch of his life which was very interesting. [78] 49 Benson June 16 – 1918 Today (Sunday) I took Bp. Howard Reese and Gottfried Beutler to the High Priest meeting in the Logan Tabernacle. Bro. Beutler and I were ordained High Priests. I was ordained a High Priest by Brother J.Z. [-]tewart who was assisted by President B. M. Lewis and his counselors Eld Mitchel & Elder John E. Carlile and Wm. Hyde. I was requested to speak a short time which I did as was also H.P. Barber, who was also or- dained a H Priest, and G. Beutler also Elders Meacham and Cunningham. We had a very enjoyable meeting.\ This is a beautiful day but a rain would be very benificial to the crops. My sugar beets are pretty good and so [---] the other crops. Some sugar beets in the Co. ex- pecially at Cornish are not doing well, in fact some have been plowed up. [79] 50 Benson, Aug. 10 – 1918 Yesterday we laid to rest the re- mains of our highly respected and beloved Brother, W.W. Roundy. The funeral services were held in the Benson meeting house and interment was in the Logan cemetary. The speakers were Elders H.W. Ballard, T.H. Reese Joseph E. Cardon, S.F. Ballif and Bp. Reese all of whom spoke of his many splendid qualities; and emphasized his faithfulness to the gospel and devotion to duty. The choir, and F.G. Baugh, and Mrs. Rinda Parsons and Mrs. Annie T. Reese furnish[-] the vocal selections. B.M. Lewis offered the opening prayer and J.Z. Steward pronounced the benediction – I dedicated the grave. W.W. Roundy was 70 years of age, leaves two excellent wives and many sons and daughters and grandchildren to mourn his departure, and they will greatly miss his fatherly care and faithful services for their physical comforts. [80] 51 As the summer passes along our crops are ripening and our grain is being harvested. I have my wheat in the slack and today my grain is being cut. On Mon. last I finished putting up my meadow hay- T.H. and I worked together in the putting up of our hay, putting his up first. The crop was the best I ever had. Our beet crop is looking good, and we are expecting a good crop, which is greatly needed in these war times. Sugar is dealt out sparingly each one being allowed by the Gov. only 2 lb. per month. The congress of the U.S. has a bill under consideration making all between the ages of 18 and 45 subject to draft. Many of our young men are going to the front and we may find difficulty in the carrying on of our farm work and in the various occupations. The situation at the front look very favorable for the Allies as the Germans are being driven [81] 52 back and are loosing many pris- oners, as well as sustaining heavy losses of killed and wounded. O how thankful we shall be when the bloody struggle comes to an end and the world is made safe for Democracy and decency. O how glad we shall be when our dear boys all come marching home. May our heavenly Father over-rule for the speedy return of peace to the earth. This is a time of the rapid fulfillment of prophecy and we have the assurance that the time is at hand for the preperation of the World for the coming of the Savior to rule and reign upon the earth. I hope I may be spared to live to see the ushering in of a reign of righteousness upon the earth. My desire is to help to teach the gospel to my fellow man. [82] 53 Wed. Aug. 14, 1918. Carrie is in Richmond having a set of teeth made by Dr. N.E. Munk Ruth is there with her. Wm & Winnie came down from Whitney last Mon. and Wm hoed beets Mon & Tues. and went back to Whitney last night We shocked up our oats yesterday & this forenoon we gathered up 2 loads of peas that should have gone to the pea factory but we were not notified, so now we shall thresh them. The war is still raging but the Allies now have the iniciative and are driving the German army back every day a few miles It looks good for the Allies and I hope they will be sustained by the Great Ruler of the earth until the victory is won and peace established upon the earth There is a bill before Congress to make the draft age from 18 to 45 inclusive [83] 54 Benson, Aug. 27 – 1918 Last evening at 9.30 oclock Howell T. Reese, Chas. Llewellyn and Chas. Lionel Reese and Leonard Purser entrained in Logan, in company with nearly 70 others for Camp Lewis. The largest crowd I ever saw in Logan were there to see these soldiers off. At the gather ing in the Court house Judge Call gave a most excellent talk to the soldier boys He spoke of the benifits that would come to them through their living a clean virtuous life and doing their duty. Dr. R.K. Merrill May Bullen E.R. Owen & JH Barker all spoke in- couraging words to the Soldiers. The Booster’s club furnished the soldiers luncheon at the Blue-bird & at Murdocks. At 8 o’clock the soldier boys and an immence crowd gathered at the Court house and listened to speeches [84] 55. and music. Attorney A.A. Law was the principal speaker of the evening and he surely spoke eloquently. I took A.J. & wife, Chas. & Georgie and Mrs. Foster to Logan in my car. Benson. Sept. 2 – 1918 - Yesterday Carrie and I with three of the children, Norma, Lowell & Ruth. motored to Richmond in the afternoon according to an invitation of Newel and Ione to bless their little son. We all attended Fast meeting and I, in connection with two brethren, blessed the boy and gave him the name of Cleave Newel. I also assis- ted in the blessing of one other babe and the confirmation of three as members of the church, one of which I was mouth. On Sat. Chas. A.; A.J. A.V., and I retur- ned in my Chandler car from S.L.C. where we went on Thurs. to Attend Bro. Neal’s funeral service. [85] 56 Benson, Oct. 4 – 1918. We have just had a fine rain. We are all blessed with good health and sufficient food & clothing. Ann Eliza had a daughter on the 18, of last month and Naoma had a 10 lb. son the 2nd of this month. Both got along fine. We have threshed and secured our crops with the exception of digging our sugar beets, which we expect to begin on the 10th inst. Last Mon. I sold 101 bu. of wheat to the Thatcher Milling Co. recd $190.31 be- sides paying for the use of 80 sacks. 4¢ each. The B.Y. College has given a two week’s vacation. [86] 57 Benson, Nov. 2 – 1918 Sat. eve. On Oct 10 I began weing sugar beets at the E. Benson weigh house, and have been weighing up to the present time and there are many tons yet to come in, We have over 5000 already in the pile. We have never before had such a fine crop of beets in our locality. Last week we had heavy rains and some showers the fore part of the week which made beet hauling very difficult, and farmers were very anxious, but the clouds have cleared away and we are having beautiful weather We have harvested our beets and delivered all but about 4 loads – 20 tons. We are rejoicing over the success of our Allies on the battle fronts and the many evidences of an early end of the terrible war. Turkey has sur- rendered unconditionally. Austria- Hungary has devided. and are wanting peace. [87] 58 An epidemic of Spanish influenza is raging throughout our county and many are dying from pneumonia which follows the “Flu”, as it is called. Many young people are passing away and much sorrow is being experience. All public gatherings are suspended, and every precaution is taken to prevent the spread of this dread disease. It is surely perilous times we are experien- cing. Great events are taking place. So far as I know all our family are well. [88] 59 Benson. Nov. 17 – 1918. At 2.15 a.m. on the 11 inst. the good news came that an Armistice had been signed by Representatives of the German government which put an end to the terrible war that has been raging Oct.14 1st 1914 and in which the Americans entered Oct. 6, 1917. The Armistice provides that the Germans shall comply with conditions that will make her most helpless. The rejoicing of the world at the con- clusion of the war is beyond words to describe. The Spanish Influenza, a most dread disease is playing havoc among the people Many people are dying. There is very sel- dom a train arrives that does not have a corpse on from some place of C[--]he Co. Mr. Martin of the U.I.C. Station at Logan told me yesterday that every day a corps comes in from the outside. Many strong young people are taken off, which is very distressing. [89] 60 Yesterday many beet farmers were in Logan with their beet checks to pay up their bills. I settled for my auto note of $700 & inst. also my taxes of nearly $270. It is a great satisfaction for one to be able to pay his obligations The sugar beet industry of our Western states has saved the nation from a sugar famine. We have a pile of beets at East Benson which I have weighed of 6986 tons and shall have about 100 tons more. We have had a fine fall for harvesting beets but on Friday night a heavy rain pre- vented the hauling of beets. The roads are still muddy. It is to be hoped the roads will soon be dry again so we may con- tinue hauling from the pile to the factory. Roland, Otto & Wm. Beutler & Lee Reese have hauled about 100 tons. I am very thankful we all continue in good health; in fact we have very little sickness in the ward. The electric light is being installed in our meeting house. We still have no public gatherings [90] 61 Benson, New Year’s Day – 1919- Today we finished hauling the East Benson sugar beet pile of 7044 tons. As I write the steam shovel is just puling up the road. Nearly all the pile has been loaded with the steam shovel and it has been a grand success. There have been about 50 teams hauling. I have hauled 223 tons and Roland has hauled over that no. of tons. Wm. Winnie & Edna Foster have taken dinner with us today. We had a fine dinner. Leland & Wanda took Christ- mas dinner with us in fact they spent the day and night with us and next day we all went to Weston to see Jno. & Anna. We had a fine dinner with them Wm. & Winnie were in Whitney. There is no snow on the ground [92] 62 which is hard and dusty; so we have the very best of roads for hauling, which has been a blessing It is usual with the haulers to load from 4 to 8 tons to the load. I haul 5 ½ and over & Roland over 6 tons – 6 ½ once today. He has hauled two loads today Jan. 7 – 1919. We continued hauling beets as long as the E Benson pile lasted which was on New Year’s Day, when the steam shovel moved up to the pile at Carliles. Roland continued hauling from there until the pile was moved which was today. On Jan. 3 – Carrie, William, Winnie and I started at 7.30 a.m. for Lavan in the Chandler for Ione. We had a nice ride over a fine road and reached Lavan about 5 o’clock. We stopped a short time in S.L.C. to get gas and found that we had made the trip on 5 gal. 20 mi. to gal [92] 63 We also made a short stop in Provo. When we got to Springville we found the ground covered with snow, and at Lavan we found they had 3 or 4 inches of snow, but the road was fine. We took Andrew, Naoma & Ione by surprise. They were very glad to see us. We spent over Sunday with them and had a most pleasant visit. The next morning about 8.45 we left Lavan for home which we reached about 5 p.m. All were well at home and got along alright during our absence. A little incident on our way down led us to wonder how we would fare when we got to Lavan. As we were entering Nephi and were hailed by an officer who asked if we were going through, as the town was quaranteed for influenza as the epidemic had broken out afresh there being 120 cases Lavan was also under quarente[--]ed but we got in without any question. [93] 64 Ione is visiting with us. Today I was in Logan to meet Mr. Newton Farr deputy collector of Income Tax. I did quite a little business besides 1919 Benson, Jan 18, Saturday Last Sunday Rola[-]ed took ill and, as we suspected it turned out that he had influenza. It was not long until we were all attacked with the epidemic and quarantined. Dr. Rees was called and he told us we were victims of the “Flu”, put up the quarantine flag and prescribed for us. I went to Smithfield in my car for the medicine. Carrie was not taken with the ‘Flu’ and she has been our nurse and well she as performed the part of nurse This morning our temperatures were all reduced to normal and we all sat up [94] 65 to the table for our breakfast. Our neighbors (relatives and friends) have been very kind to us and have sent evidences of their kindness in the shape of soup, oranges, pudding, cake &C, all of which we have enjoyed. Ione, who was with us when Dr. Rees came to see us went home with him by his urgent request as a pro- tection to her and her little son. She has phoned every day to learn how we were getting along. Anna and Wanda have also phoned to learn about us also William and his wife, who were in Whitney came down when I told them of our condition to do our chores. So we have great reason to be thankful for the great kindness and love shown us in our trouble. The great number of cases of the Flu around us and the many deaths that are occurring make us all anxious and distressed. [95] 63 This morning I had the pleasure of talking to my nephew Chas. L. who, with his wife, have just returned from Camp Lewis where he has been in the U.S. Service since Aug. 27 last when they entrained at Logan for Camp Lewis. He says the other Benson boys at the camp will be home next week. This comes as good news. Pres. Willson, who is in Europe at the Peace conferences, is giving a good account of himself as he always does whereever he acts. The terrible slaughter that is going on in the world among contending factions of the defeated nations in the great war just ended is very distressing and the great mortality from the influenza scourge throughout the world looks like the full- fil[--]nt of the prediction of the prophet Joseph Smith wherein he says that a great devastating scourge should sweep over the earth. [96] 67 Benson, Sun. Jan. 20 1919 And still the weather keeps fine, but it looks cloudy this morning. Last evening we were made happy when Newel and Ione knocked at our front dore. Newel had just arrived from New York where he went from camp Oglethorpe. He looks fine and feels well. It is certainly a comfort to Ione to have her husband home again. With sorrow we all saw him leave a few months ago, not knowing what might happen to him as it is never known what might befall a person who goes to war. The 145th division arrived it Logan Last Friday for demobilization. A fine re- ception was accorded them by the people of Cache and Logan in particular How glad we are to have our young men return! We shall soon be from under the quarantine. I think as we are all well. How thankful I am that we got through so well! [97] 68 Benson, Tues. Feb. 4. This morning we learned of the death of Sam Christiansen from pneumona, following Spanish Influenza. He leaves a wife and three children – 2 boys and 1 girl, without a home or any property. However we have heard that the wife is to receive the benefits of her brother, Francis insurance of $1300000 which will be an inscome of $5700 per mo. Francis was killed in France. We are now having the first snow- falls of the season and so far it is light but may have more as the conditions of the weather are threatening. During the past week we have been hauling gravel to make some improve- ments. The B.Y. College opened yesterday after a suspension of 4 mo. on account of the influenza epidemic. Andrea went back yesterday. I took her up in the car, but the road was rather slick. [98] 69 Benson, Feb. 13 – (Thurs) 1919. At 8 o’clock on Feb. 6. “Grandpa” John Rees died at his home. Carrie and I had been with him 24 hours. At the time of his death John W. Ines Thain, Jesse T. Florence Roundy and LeRoy his five living children were at his bedside, also their wives of the sons & Carrie and I. His death was very peaceful caused by pneumonia. Samuel Christiansen was buried Sat. Feb. 7 at the Hyde Park cemetary. Services were held at the home of C.W. Anderson I was called upon as the first speaker Sam’s death was caused from pneumonia following influenza. On Sunday, Feb. 8. funeral services were held in the Hyde Park cemetary over the remains of grandpa John Rees. Arrange- ments had been made to hold services in the Benson meeting house but onaccount of Mrs. Jesse T. Rees and her son Doyle coming down with influenza on Sat, the change was made. [99] 70 At the funeral services the choir of Benson assisted by a male quartette from Smith- field viz. Nathan Doan, Robert Rees, Hugh Rosh, and David Roskelly, and some H.P. singers offered the opening hymn. B.p. Chas. G. Hyde offered the opening prayer. The Smithfield quartette sang. The speakers were Dr. George Thomas, W.G. Reese Pres. Serge F. Ballif, Bp. H.T. Rogers, Bp. H.W. Ballard, Bp. Havard Reese were the speakers. Elder George Z. Lamb pronounced the benediction and Bp. Howard Reese dedicated the grave. The weather was rather stormy and the roads were very muddy for our Autos. Carrie staid with her sister, Mary on the way home as she was bedfast. She staid in Smithfield until Tues. when I went for her. I had spent the forenoon writing an account of the funerals of Sam. Christiansen and John Rees for the papers. which account appeared in Tuesday’s Journal in the Wed. Republican. [100] 71 We are having rather blusterous weather alternating with rain and snow with sun- shine in between, something like Mar. weather Monday Mar. 17, 1919. This is a beautiful day and the snow has all gone with the expe exception of scattered bunches around the land. For several days past the weather has been unsettled and last Thurs. night we had a lot of moisture fall in the form of rain and snow – mostly snow. The roads are in a bed shape and traveling is very heavy. Last week use were working for a bridge across Bear river on the meridian line, with the Co. commissioners – Ephraim Burgesen, David Murry and Moses Thatcher. A committe of ten met with them last Monday in special session; but as M. Thatcher had gone to Salt Lake City, a committe of five met with Thatcher on Thurs. We think we shall get a bridge, but shall know today. A committe of four meet with the Com. today. [101] 72 We started Sunday School again yes- terday; we have not been able to hold S.S. since the second Sunday in Nov. on ac- count of the flu epidemic, which has been very destructive of health and life & at present it is still bad, there being over 700 cases in Logan now and several other towns in the Co. are afflicted. We have no cases in Benson now. The last we had was the Berry Family; they had a bad siege, loosing their son Lorin, who was buried a week ago yesterday. It was a very sad parting as he was a fine young man and his father needed him so badly. The father is most distressed as is also the mother & children Mary, Ivy and John Alden. There have been many sad deaths this winter. On Wed. last I made up my income tax paper assisted by Jno. H. Bankshead who also helped Bp Reese. [102] 73 Benson April 3, 1919 I began plowing today, breaking up alfalfa on the grandpa land. The ground is in the finist condition Roland disked east of where I worked. I had two fine spans of horses, I showered about 4 o’clock and I got wet and had to quit. Yesterday Wm. & Roland were ditch ing & Parley and I made a cement headgate in the ditch running through the grandpa land. Wm. Arvel & Gordon have been repairing fence in the first pasture today. On April 1, Wm & Roland worked in the meadow today. On account of the influenza epi- demic, the church authorities decided it best to postpone the Annual conference in Salt Lake City. However T.H. & wife & A.V. & wife have gone to S.L.C. to the cattle show and on business. [103] 74 Fri. April 5 – I plowed up lucern on the grandpa land today and then went to Logan and bro’t home Andrea & Maggie. I took the teacher, Miss Larson to Logan Wm has been fixing fence assisted by Gordon. Roland disked this a.m. and plowed in the orchard this p.m. It looked very threatening for rain today but after a big bluster and a light shower it has cleared off, and now at 7.10 p.m. the sun is shining. [104] 75 April 24 – 1919 Today I planted 7 a and yesterday afternoon 4 a. of sugar beets. I have 10 a. of ground ready to plant. This evening I subscribed for $350 Victory bonds, paying $35. down. We are having beautiful weather. Wm. & Gordon have been ;lowing to- day; Gordon with 3 horses & Wm. four. Naoma and Anna spent a few days this week visiting with us. They in- tend coming back. Naoma & Ione went to Salt Lake City yesterday with McMurdie who went down to get an auto. for Newel. Anna came down to have her babe doctored, as the little darling has a bad case of indigestion. Sunday Apr. 28 – Attended Sunday school this a.m. and went to Logan to S.S. union meeting this p.m. Yesterday I planted 10 a sugar beets [105] 76 John Reeder came down this afternoon and took Annie home Nephi Jenson bro’t him down in his car. Andrew Hyer a most valuable citizen and a fine man in every way had a nervous break-down some time ago which affected his mental faculties, which resulted in his drowning himself a few days ago. and he was buried today in Lewiston. It is a very sad affair. He was a friend of mine as we have worked together in the Farmer’s Equity. Very complimentary statements were made regarding he many de- sirable qualities of heart and brain through the local papers and by the speakers at his funeral [106] 77 Benson, May 18 – 1919. I have just come home from S.S. The attendance was fairly good. and we had an interesting session. Norma is recovering nicely from her accident of having her leg broken. One week ago today W.G. III broke his leg above the knee and put out his knee joint. He is at the Utah- Idaho hospital in a plaster case which he will have to wear for a long time. On Friday night there was a collision of a car from Ogden and Henry Hancey’s car of H.P. between H.P. & Smithfield. In the 1st were 4 2 passengers – men of Ogden and 4 in the other. The six men were badly hurt one has died since- Hawkins of Ogden and Hancey is in a very bad condition with his jaw wired together so he will have to take nourishment for 6 m[- through a quill. [107] 78 Through the recklessness of many Auto drivers there are many accidents. We are having very dry weather and a good long rain would be very desirable. Prospects for rain are poor. June 19 – 1919. We are having a long dry spell as there has been no rain since the last of May when we had a pretty good downpour. On the 31 of May Carrie and I went down to conference. We had one of the most enjoyable times we ever had. The meetings of conference were very good and the attendance was great. On Sunday memorial services were held for the late Pres. Joseph F. Smith as no services were held pub- licaly at the time of his death due to the influenza situation. [108] 79 Last Sunday we received word that Carrie’s brother Andrew was dead and the following day, June 16- we drove to Central and attended the funeral and returned the same day having traveled 179 mi. Roland and Bp. C.J. Plowman went with us. There was a large attendance at the funeral there being nearly 30 Auto’s, full of people who followed the remains to the cemetary. The speakers told of the faithful services of Andrew and especially as the leader of the Central choir during the past 15 years and of the proficiency to which the choir had attained under his leadership. Last Sunday we drove to Weston for Naoma and had a nice visit with John and Run[--], who, with their children were well. [109] 80 June 27 - Yesterday Carrie and I returned from Salt Lake city where we went to take Naoma on her way to Fillmore and Wanda who went with Naoma to spend a while visiting. We went down Tues. and spent two nights in the city. The weather was uncomfortably hot and we were glad to get home, so we can rest more comfortably. We found all well at home and the work went on alright. The dry, hot, windy weather continues and it is evident that there will be crop shortage and crop failures. Strenuous efforts are being made to utilize the water supply as far as possible People are praying for rain i,e, some people are praying for rain and others are swearing because we do not get rain. [110] 81 Today is the day set for the Germans to sign the Peace terms but they are very reluctant about doing so, however they have promised. Benson, July 1 – 1919. While in Logan this morning, word came to me that Annie’s baby died this morning at 9.30 o’clock, and that Annie & babe were coming down to our home with Dr. G.L. Rees and in talking with John, he said he would follow. Anna is feeling very sad in being called to part with her sweet babe, as she had built up the hope that the babe, Mary Naoma, was gaining strength and gave promise that she would be strong and live long. It was gratifying to hear that the Germans had signed the Peace Treaty, which was done last Sat. at 3.13 p.m. Pres. Wilson left for Breast immediately and expected to set sail Sun. on the George Washington for home. [111] 82 Benson, July 12 – 1919. It has been arranged for the Cache Stake Choir to go to Bear Lake today and I was asked to go and take some of the members so Carrie and I are going and take four choir members. The Army worms are playing havoc with the sugar beets. Wm. & I have done some spray- ing and expect to do more. The weather continues hot & dry. Chas. A went to Salt Lake city this week to be examined by an X-Ray to see what ails his stomach, He went to the L.D.S. hospital and underwent a careful examination and was told that there is a growth at the outlet of the Stomach so he must undergo an operation. R.O., A.V and M.M. went down with him in B.O’s car. [112] 83 Benson, July 3 – 1919. Yes, our dear bro. Chas. A went to the Utah-Idaho hos- pital and underwent an oper- ation, I,e., he was opened and it was found that there was a cancerous growth on the liever for which nothing could be done so he was sewed up and left for the fatal day that was near. While in the hospital he was given morphine that he may not suffer. We were allow- ed – as a family to visit him & he seemed to appreciate our be- ing with him. The operation occurred on the 14 and on the morning of the 24th at 1 45 a.m. he breathed his last surrounded by his wife, sons, daughters, brother & their wives, [-]; it was sad to have our dear brother leave us. [113] 84 Funeral services were held in the first ward chapel on Sun. July 28. There were many relatives and sympathizing and sorrowing friends present and a most elaborate supply of flowers two beautiful wreaths being furnished by Maruyama and Murakamy two Japanese who had worked for Chas. and who were much attached to him. People were in attendance from nearly every town in the Co. from Salt Lake City, Ogden, Wyoming & Idaho. The speakers were S.C. Stepens of Ogden, R.B.T. Taylor of S.L.C. JWD Hur- ran of H.P. John Quayle, Dr. Geo. Thomas, H.E. Hatch, A.M. Smith, & S.F. Ballif Geo. Baugh sang a Solo. C.M. & Frank Harris gave a musical selection. Mrs. C.L. Reese & sister Miss Wahlen sant a Duet. [114] 85 and the choir rendered beautiful and appropriate music. Elder J. E. Cardon offered opening prayer and H.W. Ballard pro- nounced the benediction. Bp Howard Reese dedicated the grave, A long line of Autos followed the remains to the cemetary. The body was laid away in a beautiful metal casket that cost $700. in a cement vault. Rest in peace my much-loved Brother ‘Till the resurrection day. Then come fo[-]rth and shine forever, Is the wish for which I pray. In your going you have left us With our hearts so very sad But when we again shall meet you It will make us all so glad. When our work on earth is finished And the call has come to go To a lifes that’s never ending, We shall meet you there, I know [115] 86 Benson. Aug. 24 – 1919 On the 20th inst. the people of Logan and Cache Valley had a big Welcome Home celebration in Logan for the returned Soldier boys. It was the occasion of the biggest gathering Logan ever witnessed. The parade consisting of beautiful floats, bands of music and marching soldiers. After the parade a meeting was held on the Tab. square and after the meeting the soldiers were seated at long tables on the north of the tabernacles and served with an abundan[-]s of good things to eat. A ball game on the B.Y. Campus between the Logan & Rexberg teams resulted in a score of 8 to 7 in favor of Logan, The Logan team had just been badly defeated in two games by the Rexberg team at Pocatello. Betting was very prevalent and much money changed hands [116] 87 Yesterday the High Priest of the Cache Stake went through the temple in two companies; the first consisted of 488 men & women which was two many for to be conveniently accommodated. T.H. and I went up in my car. I think there were 100% or nearly so of the Benson H.P. in attendance. Benson, Oct. 30 – 1919. I have been plowing out beets today in the snow. We had a heavy snow storm of over one foot deep on the 24th and there were many thousands of tons of beets in the ground and the conditions are very discouraging and it will be by the greatest effort that the crop will be harvested. Yesterday I went to Logan to appraise the Estate of Jense Jensen of College [117] 88 Carrie went with me in the Grant car and the road was very bad. I broke a spring on the car. As I have so much trouble with the car I traded it for an Oakland thus getting a comparatively new car for an old one by paying $450 00 by paying for the repairing of the spring and the straightening of the front axel of the Grant. If there is anything worse than an automobile to cause expense I have not seen or heard or read about it. Like Walt Mason sa[-]ys; - “It takes my every red to keep my auto speeding” “Twill keep me broke ‘till I am dead and forty years thereafter.” [118] 89 Oct 30- I attended conference in Salt Lake City, Carrie did not go. T.H. and I roomed to- gether at the Semloh. A.J. & wife, A.V. & wife and Bp. Howard Reese and wife were down and staid at the Semloh. We had a most excellent con- ference. The League of Nation’s was endorced by Pres. Grant and nearly all of the speakers. On the 22 inst. a Welcome Home party was given in Benson in honor of the returned Soldier boys. Out of the 20 who were in the service 18 returned. Francis Monk was killed in France and Wm. Funk died at Camp Kearney of pneumonia. I composed the following lines of verse and read them at the gathering [119] 90 We love you boys who left our homes at duty’s call to go, To meet upon the battlefield the fierce and cruel foe, Whose horrid modes of warfare on land, in air, on sea, Were never known on earth be- fore – and ne’er again should be. -2- You boys went forth to meet a foe whose purpose was to gain, The mastery of all the world but all his hopes were vain; The brave, courageous, dauntless boys, who breath Columbia’s air Maintained their ground and soon gave proof that they could do and dare. -3- To night we give a welcome hand, and heart that swells with joy. To every mother’s son of you, - to each dear soldier boy, [120] 91 And as the years roll swiftly by and register each act, May nothing ever happen that can from your fame detract. May boys and girls with anxious ears surround parental fires, and listen to the thrilling tales of brave and loving sires. -4- Let us all pray that war again shal never more be known; That rulers who would plan for war may down be quickly thrown; That loving hearts may ne’er be wrung with anguish from a call, For sons and husbands, brothers to face the cannon’s ball. 5 Our joy tonight would be complete were it not that we lack The presence of two of our boys who never will come back, Who gave their lives for Freedom’s over P 94 [121] 92 Wed- Nov. 26 – 1919 We have beautiful weather since the snowstorm Oct. 24 and farmers have been able to get their beets out of the ground and many tons delivered to the factory. When the snow was off the weather became warm and the factory refused to take the beets in the piles as it was thought the beets that were frozen would spoil. I plowed out beets for Parley 2 ½ days and hauled 45 Ton from the field to the factory for him at $1.50 per ton. It was certainly a blessing that we have had such fine weather so long; but it is now snowing and the weather is quite blizzardly. There are thousands of tons yet in piles on the fields. we have a large pile on my land to haul. [122] 93 The U.S. Senate refused to ratify the Peace treaty and the League of Nations, which seems to be a source of joy to Germany. The World is certainly in a state of turmoil, with strikes, and other troubles A big coal strike in the U.S. has caused considerable trouble. Sat- Dec. 6. Last Monday morning we had quite a fall of snow. A large crowd gathered from dif- ferent parts of the Co. to witness a pulling match between a team of Olif Cronquist and Fritz Jensen. It was declared a draw. In another sense it might have been called a drawing card for Smith- field as it brought so many there. I got two span of horses shod and have been hauling pulp ever since and Wm & Roland gravel. [123] 94 cause and thereby proved their worth In Standing for a cause that ne’er should “Perish from the Earth,” The roads are hard and sleek so that unshod horses can hardly stand. Blacksmiths are kept very busy shoeing horses. Teams are hauling from the West Cache beet pile and the Amalgated Sugar Co. want tean to begin hauling next Monday. Quarterly conference of the Cache Stake is in session today and tomorrow. [124] 95 Benson, Dec 28 – 1919. We had a pretty good Sunday School today although it was quite cold. On Christmas day we had no one visit with us but today Robert Seeley & wife and Sern took dinner with us also Flora Beutler. We had a fine dinner. Mr. John Carlile, an old resident of Benson, but sold out last spring and moved to Logan, was laid to rest today. So the old Benson residenters are passing away. Our dear children have kindly remembered us with many nice pres- ents. John T Reeder sent me a pair of nice dress gloves. I received many nice presents from the family I presented my wife with a good watch and she presented me with many little tokens of love and affection. What a blessing it is to live to- gether in love and affection [125] 96 The Sunday School gave a children’s dance Christmas afternoon The Benson orchestra. Guy Rees, Mar[-]nus, Clair Mortensen, Wm G. jr. and Athen Reese – furnished the music gratis. Wm. came down from Whitney to play and went back to take Christmas dinner, which showed that he had he was faith- ful to his promise, a quality most desirable in one’s character. [126] 97 Benson, Jan. 28 – 1920. We are having beautiful weather, the snow has all gone and only patches of ice are on the land. It is more like March than January. The roads are bad but will be dry soon if this weather continues. On Jan. 2nd, a Farm Bureau was organized in our ward and I was elected sec’y & Treas. Since then we have held two meetings. We have 100% membership in East Benson. There is a good deal of agitation in favor of silos. The sugar beet question is one of considerable attention. Far- mers are intending to get due con- sideration the coming year. We feel that we ha[-]e not had just treat- ment during the past year. Some very official[--]s officers of the Amalgamated Sugar Co. have antagonized the farmers and it is time they knew about it. [127] 98 Sunday. Benson. Feb. 22 – 1920 We have had beautiful weather this month up to today; the snow went off the last of Jan and the ground has been bare so cattle could get a good deal of picking out, which has helped out the feed situation. Today it has snowed and tonight it looks like we might have a good deal of snow by morning. I expected to plow tomorrow. I have spent two weeks with a number of others making road on the meridian through the bottoms. I have stood the work pretty well but when night came I was very tired. Wm. & Roland worked some too. Arvel and Gordon have hauled a good many tons of pulp, especially has Arvel hauled a good deal as Gordon was in school in Logan. He was out most of last week on account of the epidemic of “Flu”, [128] 99 Cousin James T. Reese had the grief of loosing his wife and little three year <15 month> old girl leaving him with two daughters and three sons. It is very sad to have such an experience The funeral was held at the home on Friday, Feb. 13. All the Reese Bros. were there except Alma V. who was in the Utah Idaho hospital having gone there to undergo an operation for cataract. The Reese Bros. were the pall barers. I was the first speaker. Samuel Melson and George Done were the other speakers. Nation Done and Mrs. Sparks sang also Mrs. Lundquist The choir also sang. There was a large crowd attended the funeral. A subscription paper is being cir- culated in Smithfield to help James The Committee sent us one. We are giving $10 00 each to help him. [129] 100 Feb. 23, 1920 Last night there fell about 4 inches of snow and today looks very wintry. We are anxious for spring as feed is so scarce and expensive. Easter Sunday Apr. 4. It has stormed nearly every day since the above was written and as a result the roads are in an almost impassable condition. While the snowfall has been light yet its being so continuous there has been considerable moisture and there is little fear about there being any scarcity of water this summer. On Mar. 13 our daughter Ann Eliza gave birth to a daughter in the Utah-Idaho hospital and on Feb. 24 Ione gave birth to a daughter in the same place. They both got along fine and [130] 101 are still feeling fine. Carrie and I almost decided to go to conference but the weather is so stormy and for other reasons we staid at home. On the 22 of Mar we – Wm Edwards, D.H. Thomas and myself – the Inheritance tax appraisers, sat on the case of Mrs. Evaline D. Hunsaker and on the 23 the case of Wm C Nielsen and on the 29 Gideon E. Olsen of Paradise. On April 2, the case of Geo. H. Champ came up. His estate was valued at nearly $400 000. Yesterday there was a farm Bureau meeting held in the Assembly room of the Logan High School building. The object of the meeting was to consider the action of Pres. Ephraim Bergesen in his deciding to accept the contract of the Sugar. Companies. I moved the adoption of the action of Pres. Bergesen – carried unanimously, much ja[--]ling was indulge in on some sore heads. [131] 102 Friday Benson, April 16 – 1920 We are still having heavy rains and our farm land is altogether too wet to plow and therefore our farm work will be very late this year. The roads are almost impassable and feed is very scarce and when hay does come in it is almost im- possible to haul it from the stations. Rail-road men are on strike, which makes shipping very un- certain. The disturbed condition of the whole world is very distressing. It is as bad in many respects as during the war, What the outlook may result in is hard to foresee. We are sure living in perilous times. On Wed. evening we met at the home of A.J’s to show respect to “Aunt” Libbie, it being her 49th birth- day. Their children, Bp. Reese & wife, A.V. and Carrie & I were present. A nice lun- cheon was served. [132] 103 May 3 – Mon. Began plowing beet land and as soon as we had any land plowed we prepared it - 3 or 4 acres at a time and planted the beets, while the land was damp. On Mon we finished plowing our beet land an on Tues. put in the last of our beets. We plowed our wheat land on Wed. Thurs. & Friday and finished drilling it in on Friday. That evening we had a nice rain tht was very beneficial to the crops throughout the county. Today Sunday May 23 the day is very beautiful. The pastures are unusually good now due to the copious supply of moisture. The funeral services of John W. Reese were held last Sun. in the Benson Meeting house which was filled to overflowing. 63 autos followed the remains to Smithfield where they were kept [133] 104 at the home of Dr. Reese awaiting the arrival of Simpson from Oklahoma He arrived Mon, evening and on Tues. a short service was held at the home of Dr. Rees and then the remains were taken to Hyde Park cemetary & laid to rest. Sixteen Autos formed the funeral procession from Smithfield. [134] 105 1920- Benson, August 18 – Many things have happened since the foregoing was written Last Friday I started cutting my meadow hay and today we finished putting it up. We are working with Howell and his hay is ready to put in the stack and had it not been for a heavy shower last eve- we would have put some of it in today. I have been on a trip to Idaho Falls with Louis Cardon this summer. There were seven of us in inhou[---] Studebaker We saw a lot of fine count[-] including a large tract of land belonging to the Sugar Co. which they offer for sale Cardon Bros. are the agents. They are agts for the sale of a large tract in Peterboro. [135] 106 On Aug. 4. Carrie and I rode to Salt Lake with A.V. and Rhoda and Frank in his new Oldsmobile Sport Model Bp. & wife and A.J. and wife also went down in the bishop’s Case car, On the 5, we all went to [-]ingham piloted from S.L. City by Bro. R.B. T. Taylor who was accom- panied by his wife and two of his nephews. We had a fine trip but anlittle ac- cident occurred to Sister Taylor tht detracted from the pleasure [--] that she was going down an embankment in a hurry for water to throw on A.V.’s Auto wheel that the brake made so hot it was thought to be on fire, and broke her foot ancle. [136] 107 The following day we took in the sights of the city in the forenoon and in the afternoon we went out to the lake and had a swim and a boat ride and dan- ced in the large dance hall on the 7 we came home and found all well. Probably the matter of greatest importance now is the consideration of who will be the next pres. Gov. Cox has been named by the Democrats and Harding by the Republicans. Parley P. Christiansen of Utah has been named by the Labor Party, so called. There will no doubt be a hotly contested campaign this fall – It is alrady warm. [137] 108 Benson Aug. 23 – 1920 We finished getting up the meadow hay at noon Sat. at 12 o’clock and in the afternoon Gordon, Arvel & I put up the fence around the hay. Gordon had worked on it during the A.[-]. Yesterday I attended Union Meeting. Finished Benson, Oct. 2 - 1920 Today we finished putting up Wm. Homer’s silage consisting of corn and sunflowers. The sunflowers are very bad to handle and I think we better not raise them on that account. Those who have raised them this year say they will not raise them again. I have filled my silo by buy- ing 18 loads from A.J. at a cost of $4.15 per ton. Last week our Co. Fair was held in Logan. We attended three days. [138] 109 We are having beautiful weather after a copious rain last week, which helped the beet crop. John and Anna & Naoma just called on their way home frorm Logan. The past three Sundays we have had family gathering – one Sun. here, the next at Weston and last Sunday at Hyde Park at the home of Leland and Wanda’s. Andrea has finished her first month’s teaching in Riverside Arvel is attending the Junior high in Smithfield. Gordon would have gone to Richmond if he could have made the connection with the street car. Last Sat. the Democratic and the Republican conventions were held in Logan at which men were nominated for Co. offices. Sanater King delivered an eloquent address on Democracy in the evening at the Logan High [139] 110 Benson, Oct. 13, 1920 Wed. It is so stormy today that we are not working in our sugar beets. We began digging beets on the 7th inst. and have been getting along fine. Last Sat. night it began raining and rained almost continuously until Mon. morning when it cleared up and looked like we were going to have fine weather for a long time, but it has been rather stormy so far this week. Recently the West Cache Sugar Co. sold out to the Amalgamated and now the raisers of beets for the West Cache are rather peeved at the way things are going. A very sad affair happened in Logan recently when John William Gardner was elotrocuted while adjusting his electric range and a heavy storm had disarranged the wires of the Logan City power plant. [140] 111 Bro. Gardner was a very good Latter- day saint, an able lawyer lawyer and a first class man who was very highly respected by the community. Benson, Nov. 1, 1920 The stormy weather continued almost throughout the mo. of Oct. but toward the latter part of the mo. it was only an occasional shower and the wind and sun more than overcame the wet and the land dried considerably and we were able to continue harvesting and hauling our beets. This morning there was a slight fall of snow on the ground but by 93.0 a.m. it had gone. Wm, Gordon, and Arvel have topped and loaded six loads of beets, with over four tons to the load and Roland has hauled five loads and has one load on way on. [141] 112 Tomorrow, Nov. 2, is election day and I am one of the judges There is much interested in the vote this year throughout the nation and also locally. Nov. 2- Election today. A.J. Reese E.A. Parson and myself were the judges. The vote stood 37 democratic and 16 Republican votes with three notes spoiled. Nov. 3 – The Co., the state and the nation have gone strongly Republican. Nov. 4. I finished plowing out our beets by 12 o’clock and went to Logan in the afternoon, Carrie Norma and Ruth went with me in the Chandler. The roads were pretty good, considering the past heavy storms Nov. 5 Today the boys finished topping and hauling the beets. [142] 103 Our crop has averaged 18 4/5 tons to the acre. The weather is getting colder tonight. Nov. 15 – Received beet check ammounting to $4375.00 - $75 for beet seed Dep. $3690.15 On this date I paid out checks as follows. Farmer’s & Merchants Bank $515.15 Howell Bro. 55.00 S.E. Needham 14.00 W.T. Reese, jr. his share in crop 1218.00 Paid for Wm. at Thatcher Press 609.09 Cow. W. & Machine Co. infull 28.25 North Utah Auto Co. (car tires) 242.91 Wm. Doutre (an Olds note 535.00 Total $3217.40 Leaving in Bank $472.75 Carrie went to Logan with me. and we took dinner at Ione’s Leland & Wanda and Wm. & Winnie were there. The road was very heavy for Lucli[-] on the buggie. We are having very wet weather. [143] 114 Nov. 16 – Drove the mules on little buggy to Smithfield – Carrie went with me and spent the day with her sister Merry and after doing some business in Smith- field I went to Logan on the street car. I deposited $100. each for Gordon and Arvel of their money for topping beets on Savings in Thatcher Bros Bank. After doing some other business, I rode back to Smithfield with Lu. Larsen & his son as I did not want to wait for the 6 p.m. car. The road home was very muddy. Nov. 17. started plowing. ground rather wet but the land plows good “ 18 – Continued plowing down by trees. Roland got through at noon today hauling beets for Munk & boys and came home. This has been a beautiful day – just like a spring day in May. [144] 115 Benson – Dec. 19 – 1920 Today – Sunday – I and four of the family – Andrea, Gordon, Arvel and Lowell – attended S.S. The day has been beautiful but the attendance at Sunday School was poor; but we had a good time. My wife has been very poorly in health for some time – There is a reason – It seems so sad around the home with her ill. I attended sacrament meeting today – Took Bp. and wife & A.V. to meeting in my car. Yesterday I attended a meeting in Logan of the Co. Farm Bureau, Made a talk against a motion to have a membership fee extend over three years. The vote was lost There is considerable discussion going on between the farmer and [145] 116 sugar factory officials regard- ing the price of hauling beets from the piles to the sugar factory. From the pile on my land the factory offers 85¢ (they have come up to $1.10) while the farmers want $1.25. We had a fine crop of sugar beets this year. [146] 117 Christmas morning- 1920 We as a family are all very happy this morning. Each has remembered all with a token of love and affection. We have plenty to eat, sufficient to wear and in debt to no one whom we cannot pay as we have had a prosperous year Many of our friends have remembered us. among whom was Bro. & Sister Taylor who sent a pretty card containing beautiful sentiments. I wrote to them the following lines. Dear friends full well I know the card you sent contains in part your heart’s true sentiment. For many years this fact I well have known By acts of kindness you to me have shown -2- I know you give “full measure, running o’er” To those who knock upon your open door Of aid and cheer and warmth that make one feel Your tender hearts are true as tempered steel. -3- As years roll on and we grow older too My heart e’er be[-]ts most lovingly for you Each day I feel true friendship is a prize. One of the greatest b[--]ns beneath the skies. [147] 118 Sunday Dec. 26 – 1920 Went to S.S. and took charge. we had a good S.S. My assistants Geo. Cowley and H.W. Ballard jr were there. We discussed the needs of our school. We made several changes in the work. Attended the sacrament meeting at 2 p.m. The stake presidency, J.E. Cardon J.W. Lindquist & Walter Everton were with us and told us many good things. Mon 27 Gordon and I hauled sugar beets. Tues 28 “ “ “ “ “ “ Wed. Gordon & I hauled beets; he helped me load and I drove to the factory. Took over two loads before dinner and then we all got ready and went up to Newel’s & Iones for dinner. It was a family dinner. Andrew and Naoma, and son Reese, John & Anne and their children Evelyn, Weldon & Aletha; [148] 119 Wm and Winnie and Will G. their son. Leland and Wanda & daughter Barbara, Carrie and I, Gordon, Arvel, Norma, Lowell and Ruth were there Andrea was in Salt Lake attending the Utah Educational Association. Roland was off with some of his friends. Newel, Ione, Cleve and Maridine in connection with all of us whom they entertained made a large crowd. The dinner was all that could be desired. We had a very pleasant time Naoma & Reese came home with us and Andrew went to salt Lake on business. Thuss. Have been hauling beets today. The weather is too warm to keep the roads in condition for hauling beets and if it does not get colder we shall have to stop hauling. There are about 4000 tons in our pile yet and it is sincerely to be wished that the weather may get better. [149] 120 Jan 4 – 192 – Chandler was run to date 7746 mi. Jan. 9 Went to S.S. and meeting. Taught the Priesthood meeting after the sacrament meeting. Bro. W.A. seamons Mrs. J.Q. Adams and Sister C.C. Ammussen were at the Sacrament meeting and gave instructions regarding the genealogical society. It has been snowing all the afternoon Wanda and Leland are staying with us while Leland is hauling beets. On Friday. the 7th inst I had a very dangerous ride down the hill to the factory with a loads of beets and the wagon tongue was broke and I was nearly thrown in the [---] [-]sit with the load. [150] 121 Jan. 12 – 1921. Yesterday I acted as an appraiser on the estate of Dr. W.B. Parkinson. It was the last case for me as the Republican Judge A.A. Law appointed two of his party. Today I have hauled beets The day has been very cold, and we were lined up with loads about a quarter of a mi. long as the belt of the beet elevator broke and it took a long time to fix it. The last of the Carlile pile was hauled today. [151] 122 Benson. Feb, 5 – In company with A.J.; AV. R.O. and Wm Anderson, I went to Logan today to at- tend the Dairymen’s meeting at at W.A.C. We went up in R.O.’s car, It showed a good deal last night and the road was hard to follow. When were a couple of miles on our way the gas would not feed in the engine and we were stranded until T. H. came along and we hiched on behind his car with some barb wire and he pulled us in, but we were late at the A.C. meeting; however we had a good time. There was an auction sale of ten young Holstien sires I was selected as one [152] 123 to draft resolutions in be- half of the sale of milk &C. We were rather late get- ting home but we have had a pleasant day. Many interesting events have transpired lately including the ward re union last week. a children’s dance &C. Parley A. Reese had the mis= fortune to break his leg by having a horse fall on it while driving cattle on ice. He is in a Logan hospital. Dr. G.L. Rees was operated upon a week ago for ap

endi- citis and is in the Utah-Idaho hospital, not getting along very well. We are all well at present for which I feel to thank our Heavenly Father. [153] 124 Feb. 15- Yesterday and today it has been warm and springlike; the snow has almost gone. -16. Last night, after quite a frost and wind there was quite a fall of snow. Today it is rather raw but thawing. We are all well. Last Thurs. Sarah Wanda Under- went an operation at the Utah-Idaho hospital. She is getting along nicely. On Mon. evening last I attended the meeting of the Stake presidency & high Council, bishoprics of the wards of the Cache Stake and the sec’ys and Teacher’s training, as a teacher of the Teacher’s training class in our ward. we had a good time. [154] 125 Benson, April 1 – 1921 We are having beautiful weather and the land is nearly ready for cultivation. We have purchased a pumping plant to install in Bear river. It will be an expensive undertaking but no doubt it will be worth the cost, as we need water for irrigation. We are having a hard proposition to face in the raising of sugar beets as the price is low and the factory officials insist on doing away with our inland piles and in having each farmer pile his beets on his own land. [155] 126 Apr. 13 – We had a heavy fall of snow since last night Apr. 14 The country is experiancing one of the worst storms of the season. Colorado seems to be suffering most. Fri. Apr. 15 Still stormy 16, still threatening Sunday – 17 Day fine – drove car to Sunday school and meeting Mon. Went to Logan to arrange for money to pay for pumping plant. Got it. my share was $180.00 Mon. Evening went to a surprise on Bro. & Sister Philip Purser About 25 were present. Tues. Spent the day at home. A Mr. Hodgson took about 3 hr. of my time talking up the Pioneer sugar factory. I was not persuaded to sing contract. Wed. Mr. Whitney the president of the U.I.C. interurban R.R. and the Co. engineer came to Benson to talk with the farmers about putting in a R.R. spur to haul our sugar beets. He, with us will consider the proposition a couple of days. [156] 127 There is a great deal of controversary in our community in regard to the Co. with which to contract – the Pioneer or the Amal. Mon. Apr. 25 – 1921. There were a large number of the Benson farmers met with Mr. Whitney, president of the Utah-Idaho- interurban R.R. to see if we could get an extention of the R.R. through our sugar beet section to haul our sugar beets to the factories. Apr. 27 – There were sixtyfive people met at the home of Andrew Munk. to surprise them. We had a fine time until 2.30 a.m. An interesting program, games, chatting and a picnic furnished the enjoyment of the evening. The continuous rains keep our land too wet for cultivation, however there is evidence of better weather. Apr. 28- We got our pumping plant home today. The clouds are clearing away and the sun is shining. I wrote to Naoma today. The Com. A.V. Reese W.[-]. Thain & John Ricks went to Ogden to see the sugar factory people about [159] 128 July 3- 1921- At 1-30 a.m. this mor- ning Carrie gave birth to a fine <10 lb.> boy. Dr Rees was in attendance with Mrs. Gheen as an assistant. Ione was also here with us. Carrie passed through the ordeal fine, and is getting along nicely. so is the babe. Naoma is going to stay with us until all are well. We appreciate her kindness especially as she had planned to go to Fillmore with her husband for a short stay. The crops are looking good but we were threatened with frost last night as it turned very cold after the hot weather we have been having. We have not got our pumping plant working yet but are working at it. [160] 129 Aug – 11 – 1921. Today we finish putting up our meadow hay. For months we have not had scarcely a drop of rain for but we now have our pumping plant running which furnishes plenty of water, for our crops. We are having fine weather for harvesting our crops. The 24th of July was very interestingly celebrated in Benson. Benson. Aug. 21 – 1921 Sunday - We are kept busy with our farm work. Last evening Carrie and I went to the picture show in Smithfield in the Chandler. I had much difficulty in driving as my eyes are getting so bad. It is very discouraging to find ones eye- sight getting bad. Our baby boy is growing fast and he is sure a fine chap. I hope and pray that he may grow up to be a good man. 12 [161] 130 Sept – 3 Began cutting corn at Bp. Reese’s. Sept. 4 – Our babe was taken to Fast meeting and blessed and given the name of Cecil Everet. He was blessed by his father assisted by Bp. H.W. Ballard jr. and counselor Sylvan Peterson and High Councilmen H.W. Ballard and Howard Reese. We are all blessed with good health Oct. 14 – 1921 We finished getting up and selling our potato crop on Wed. Oct. 5 and started on our sugar beets on Oct. 4 and had them delivered at the factory on the 13, Our crop was light. Roland and Parley hauled them. Last Sunday Hans A. Pedersen, one of the presidency of the Logan stake was buried, Funeral services were held in the Cache stake Tab. Bro. Pedersen used to be one of my counselors in the 6th wd- M.I.A. [162] 131 Hugh Dowdle was kicked by a horse some days ago and had three ribs broken that punctured his lungs from which he died on the eve of the 12. and is to burried Sun. next. Andrea is not getting along very well as she suffers so much from her head. as a gathering of puss threatens trouble and her mother is kept busy applying hot packs and using an atomizer. Those who signed with the Pioneer sugar company are having no end of trouble and have not yet sold their sugar beets. This has been a very dry sum mer and the ground is so had it was with much difficulty that we plowed out our sugar beets/. There was much loss by the breaking off of the beets, however I am glad we have the crop delivered. I am thankful I had the good sense to sign with the Amalgama ted sugar Co. [163] 132 Benson. Nov. 17 – 1921 We have had ideal fall weather for several week which has been a great help in the harvesting of our crops. Since we got through with our beets I have done a lot of plowing. Roland has hauled a great many tons of beets for others Gordon helped in the topping and loading of Howell’s & Robs beets; he worked side by side with three Japps and kept up with them. Arvel is attending the B.Y.C. and staying with Newel & Ione. Andrea is home with us yet, she is not at all strong. The both babes; Cecil our little son and our little grandson are growing fast. Roland is making arrangements [164] 133 to leave for a mission Dec. 17th His call is to the Cannadian mission. The farmers who signed with the Pioneer (fake) Sugar Co. have had no end of trouble, however the Amalgamated Co. finally bought their beets, but paid only $500 per ton for those hauld from the field, and $5.50 for th[-]se hauled from their individual piles. It looks like the Farmer’s Equity Imp. of Logan will go into he hands of a receiver & we shall lose our stock, mine being $110 or 22 shares. The Farm Bureau is now making a drive for membership. It is a national organization and should be helpful to the farmers however it is hard to tell. [165] 134 Benson Jan. 1, 1922. “One more year has gone” and we are entering upon another. On Dec. 5, I went with Roland to S.L. City on his way on a mission. I spent the 6, mostly at the bishop building where a large number of Elders were set apart for his mis- sion <7th > I came to Logan with Bro Joseph C. Jorgensen on the late in- terurban car arriving at 11 oclock I spent the night at Newels. Next day I went to H.P. and had a visit with Wanda and then took the inter- urban to Smithfield where Gordon came to meet me. Found all well at home. I worked on the road three days and then a heavy storm came on and continued until the snow fell about two feet and up to date no road work has been done. [166] 135 Christmas day was spent at home with only the family at home. During Christmas holidays Gordon, Arvel, Lowell and I have been busy hauling hay and pulp and doing business There has been distressing time with farmers who signed with the Pioneer Co. to get their money. Monday Jan. 2 – 1922. We are having a very stormy day; it rained most of the mor- ning and then began to snow and there has been a driving storm from the north ever since; however it is not very cold. We are feeling quite well in health and with the exception of colds. We have received several letters from Roland all of which show that he has the spirit of his mission and that he is enjoying himself. [167] 136 [remainder of page is blank] [168] 137 Jan. 11- 1922. For over a week now we have had very cold weather with the ex- caption of yesterday, which was com- paratively mild; however today is cold again but not as cold as the 7, 8 & 9. Carrie and I have bad coughs in connection with heavy colds. There is considerable illness among people at present; it seems to be the Lagrippe The sleighing is ideal. The snow is deeper in the mountains, according to the forest rangers than it has been for 17 years, thus insuring plenty of moisture for the present year. There have been destructive floods in many parts of the U.S. and Canada has been buried in snow especially Nova Scotia. Very cold weather has been experienced in the New England states and as far south as N.Y. [169] 138 Jan. 12 Still cold. Carrie & I both have bad coughs and heavy colds. This afternoon the bishopric called on us on their visits through the ward. They held a cottage meeting with us. We received some letters from Roland today; he was well and enjoying his labors. My eyes seem to be getting dim- mer as it is with difficulty that I see the lines. Jan. 13 – Last night was about the coldest we have had this year; I think it was the coldest. Today the sun is shining but it is very cold. Gordon has gone to the meadow for hay. [170] 139 Benson, Jan. we – 1922. We have had the coldest weather the past few weeks we have had for 17 years the temperature going to 42º below zero. A very sad thing occurred on Mon. of last week when our cousin, James Reese died very suddenly in the truck on his way to his work in the Richmond condenser. He ran to catch the truck and froze one of his lungs, which caused his death. The funeral services were held in the 1st ward meeting house on Thursday – the coldest day of all the thermonetor registering 41º at the sugar factory that morning. Andrew J. and I were among the speakers at the funeral. I added to my cold and have been housed up ever since. The weather is getting milder. [171] 140 Sat. Feb, 18 – 1922. One of the most desirable things for our community is the finishing up of the grave- ling of our roads. Today the teams are hauling gravel in front of our homes, which is the last piece to be done. We now have a graveled road to Smithfield, to Logan and to the meeting. house. The snow is still deep. I bought 8 tons of wild hay from Dane yesterday and today Arvel, Lowell and Ivel the hired man have taken the colts and a bunch of cows and heifers out to the meadow to feed. I am improving in health and hope to be out soon. I expect to get my eyes attended to soon as my sight is very dim. [172] 141 Feb. 22. I am still housed up. Carrie, too, has been afflicted the past three days with a cold in her head and ear ache which is worse thi morning. The weather is still wintry and the snow is deep. How gladly we shall hail spring! Carrie is suffering very much from a pain in her head caused by a gathering in her ear. Feb. 23- Carrie suffered all night and is still suffering from ear ache and gathering in her head, which seems to be an epidemic as several have been similarly afflicted Aunt Rhoda is here helping us today Cecil slept with me last night and behaved very fine. He is a dandy boy. I have written a letter to William & Ione to Roland today. I write one or two letters nearly every day. [173] 142 March 3- We are having very cold weather; yesterday morning it was 15º below zero. and the day before wh we had a most terrific windstorm we have had for a long time. The snow is about 3 feet deep. and, while the sun is shining brightly this a.m. yet it is very cold. Gordon and Joel Robinson who is staying with us have gone to Newton for hay. Two weeks ago Carrie, my wife, took ill two weeks ago with a sore throat which caused an infection in the ear from which she has suffered greatly, but she is better now, Norma is ailing now, but we think she will be better soon I am feeling quite well now, but as it is so cold. I still stay in, fearing lung trouble. [174] 143 -3- Last night was very cold and, while the sun is shining brightly this morning, it is still very cold. We are all better this morning and hope we shall soon be in good health again and able to perform our daily tasks. The recent or might say present cold, stormy wave has caused much suffering and many deaths throughout the country. On Monday last, the Cache Valley and Farmer’s & Merchants banks merged into one and will be known as the Cache Valley Bank. On Wed. night there was a dance of the married people in Benson under the auspices of the farm bureau. The Hyde Park band furnished the music. A good time was had by those present. [175] 144 Sunday Mar. 12 I was in hopes that I would be able to go to Sunday School today but was not as my lungs are so clogged up that it is not safe for me to go out especially as it is so cold being below zero a good many degrees Carrie still suffers from ear ache and pain in her head and sore throat. This is a beautiful clear day and may warm up some. We are all getting anxious for spring to come. [176] 145 George & Johan [-]amb <3> of H.P and their sons Willis and Ferren began chopping [--] [----] home trees Then [---] Light people & the Telephone Co. each sent down a man to look after the wires and to climb the trees to put ropes on them that they might fall right, The men climbed up about 80 ft. The trees were all fallen along the side walk which was due to the manner in which they were cut. -14- Today the men finished Cutting the trees about 10.30 Some of the trees were [---] 15 [line illegible] today might be regarded as the spring thaw – -16- Snow still going rapidly but it will take time to take it all off. [177] 146 Apr. 6 – 1922 went to S.L.C. Victor met me at the depot and took me to the Semloh in his sedan, which was a great help to me. Apr. 7 – AJ. and I arranged with Dr. AR Irvine to go to the L.D.S. Hospital Sun. evening at 5 oclock to get ready to have our eyes operated upon at 8 a.m. Mon. Went to a show in the Hipodrome in the evening. Apr. 8 – The day was stormy Visited with Naoma & Ione at the Hotel Utah and with friends most of the day. Attended Priesthood meeting in the tabernacle in the eve- ning. Had a fine meeting in the Tab,; it was filled to overflowing so was the Asembly [178] 147 Had a fine meeting. Got ready to go to the hospital and at 5 oclock, accom- panied by Libbie, Naoma A.V. we took the street car and went to the hospital and were soon located in our room, A Bro. Hanson also occupied the same room He had the misfortune on New Year’s mor[--]g. while on his way to the R.R. shops of being run into by an auto and getting his legs crushed one so badly that it had to be amputated in the thigh. and his other leg is still in splints. Had a hole punched in his back. but seems q[---]te happy in his condition Apr. 10 1922 – Operated upon for eyes. [179] 148 Being almost blind. I had the misfortune of letting the ink drop off my pen on my journal, which I very much regret. Today is May 9 – and the sun is clear & bright, which has not been the cace since Sunday the 7 We have planted 4 acres beets, 4 acres wheat & 4 a. wheat and lucern seed. The spring work lags on account of so much moisture. Gordon, Willis & Chas. L. Reese are hauling manure with A.J’s spreader. We have a lot of manure this spring as none has been hauled during the winter. I spend a lot of my time tending Cecil. [180] 149 Yesterday I received a letter from Dr. Irvine saying A.J. and I may go to S.L. City any time after next week to get glasses; or even now if the redness had left our eyes. [181] 150 July 16 – Yesterday I got through cultivating my beets for the 5th time While most of the crop looked very discouraging at first, now they are looking much better; i. I, the beets, We have not had a decent shower of rain since spring opened & that is the chief cause of the poor stand of beets as there was not enough moisture to germinate the seed. [182] 151 We have not had very warm weather during the summer, however there have been a few hot days and yesterday was one of them, I have not got read- ing glasses yet and therefore my writing is almost alto gether by guess. As I am u- able to read I feel the loss very keenly. and shall be very glad when I get glasses so I can read and write again. [183] 152 A fierce fire has been raging in Washington & Oregon timber for a good while causing great looss in the destruction of good timber for lumber. It is thought that the I.W.W. people are re- sponsible for the fire, however the charge may be false. It is hard to believe that human beings would be guilt of such out- ragous distruction of the country’s resources. [184] 153 Sept. 18 – 1922. This morning we started putting in my corn into the silo; on the 15; & 16 we put Jonathan Smith’s corn in his silo. The weather is beautiful. I have four teams hauling and three men in the field and three men in the silo and Arvel hauling water. I went to Smithfield this morning for meat. We are getting along pretty well with our work. I am thankful I am able to see well now both to read and to get around by the aid of reading glasses and distance glasses, which A.J. and I got on the first of this month. On Aug. 30 A.J. & Libbie; A.V. and Rhoda and Carrie & I went to Salt Lake in my Chandler for this purpose. Oh! how thankful I am to be able to see again. [185] 154 Yesterday Carrie & I attended conference in Logan and had an enjoyable time - good meetings. Andrew and Naoma & Reese; John F. Reeder & wife, & Evelyn and Weldon and Aletha stopped with us last evening on their way home to Weston from Logan as they came down to conference there. We continue to get encourag- ing letters from Roland; he is well and enjoying his mission- ary work. The corn-cutter broke down at 3 oclock so work had to be suspended, until next day, On the 19th the corn-cutter was one houre in the fore-n finishing my job and went to Howard Reeses the rest of the day and Gordon & I helped him. On the 20th I hired Willis Lamb & he & I helped Howard all day & finished his silage at 5 oclock [186] 155 Sept. 21 – Gordon & I helped Ether Tarbet put up silage – I worked in the Silo. Yesterday Gordon, Arvel, and Lowell hauled hay. Sept. 22, I helped Ether Tarbet and Gordon, Arvel & Lowell hauled hay. just as the corncutter got ready to start it was dis- covered that a bolt in the cluch of the Case Tractor was broken at Harold & I went to Smithfield and got in fixed but we did not get started on the silage until about Eleven o’clock. We got through about 3 and I came home and helped the boys haul hay. We have been too busy all week to go to the celebration in Logan of the American Legion, Sept. 24 Sunday. Supt. Ray West. and his 2nd Assistant Wm. L. Wanlass, Inid Ruff and Della Morrell visited our S. school. [187] 156 also Bros. W. A. Seamons and John Lamb were present and spoke to the parent’s class on the subject of geneological works. Benson, Nov. 2 – 1922 We have had beautiful for harvesting our Sugar beets, up to date but today it is snowing, however I have been over with one load and Gordon & Arvel have topped a load and Lowell has been plowing out beets. Our beets are larger this yr. than any we have heretofore raised but the sta[--]as not good so our tonnage is not very good as an average. Most of the people have har- vested their sugar beets, but there are a good many tons still in the ground so it is to be hoped that we shall have much good [188] 157 weather yet. A week ago last Sun. Elston Rees was buried in the H.P. ceme- tary. Funeral services were held in the 2nd wd. chapel in Logan. Elston was killed while work- ing on the sewer trench in Logan. The question of greatest in- terest at present in the election The Republicans have Ernest Bamberger at the head of their ticket as U.S. Senator and the Democrats have W.H. King. Yesterday there was a big dem onstration by the Dem’s. for King who came to the Co. to speak. He was met at Wellsville by about 50 Autos) and after a meeting there the caravan went to Hyrum and held a meeting & from the eve. to Logan where King spoke in there. in the Auditorium [189] 158 We continue to receive nice letters from Roland, which makes us very happy and compensates me for working so hard in the harvesting of the beets, as I do the hauling and help in loading We have several hundred bu of potatoes pitted as the price has been too low to justify selling them as it would have necessitated the hiring of a good deal of help to haul & load them on the cars and then get 30¢ per cwt. We hope to have a better some in Logan for 60¢per cwt. Apples this year are selling at 15¢, 25¢, & 30 per bu. wheat at 75¢ per bu. [190] 159 Nov. 14 – 1922. This is a beautiful clear morning but quite cold and the ground is frozen so hard that it is difficult to plow out beets; however nearly all have dug their beets. Gordon has gone over to top for Lionel today; he & Wm. & Geo. Beutler finished toppings Newel’s yesterday For a few days last week it looked like there was little chance to finish getting out the beets and potatoes that were not dug. The recent election in Utah resulted in the election of Rigby and Olsen on the Democratic ticket in Cache and W.H. King as Senator according to the count to date [191] 160 Nov. 16 – 1922. Received beet check amounting to the sum of $604.63- Paid out as follows. 197.00 $407.63 G[-] Gordon W. $70.00 Arvel C. 70.00 Lowell S. 10.00 Norma M. 4.00 Ruth 1.00 $155.00 Paid to the Con W. & M. C. on a/c 40.00 Haitstone 2.00 $197.00 Redeemed note at Cache Valley bank amounting to $400 + <$>14 inst $414.00 as follows. Liberty & Bonds $302 Note $112 due 2 mo. $414 $414.00 Dec. 22 received bonus from the Amalgamated Sugar Co. 75¢ per ton. $129.49 [192] 161 Jan, 2 – 1923. We are now entering upon another year under quite favorable conditions financially and otherwise; however on Sunday morning last while milking I had the misfortune to hurt my back from which I have suffered ever since, but am getting better. We have had quite a fall of snow since Sunday morning but this is a beautiful day. Gordon and Arvel started with the others in the ward who are attend- ing the North Cache High school, to school. They were up early and did the chores. Every week or oftener we get a nice letter from Roland stating that he is well and enjoying his work. On Sat. last we had a pump meet- ing and an assessment – (the 5th) was made to clear up our indebtedness to date. My amount was $16900 but as A. Jorgensen said he could not carry his stock the rest of us may have to dig up $141 $9100 more among us as per share [193] 162 On Nov. 30 – 1922, All our children & grandchildren and Sons-in-law & daughters in-law, with the exception of Roland took Thanksgiving dinner with us. There were 29 of us altogether. Dec. 26. Carrie and I went with Leland and Wanda to Weston and had dinner with John & Anna. Naoma & Andrew were also present. Had a very pleasant time. Cecil was quite ill two days before Christmas but his mother soon nursed him back to health. Some of the other children were also ill a day or two. Jan. 3. Newel called around in the evening and insisted that I should go to Logan with him as he thought a change might improve my health. As I wanted to get some of my teeth out, I went in with him and spent the night with him & Ione. Jan. 4 Word came early saying that Blain was quite ill. I went down [194] 163 town in the afternoon and had two teeth extracted and came home in the evening with A.J. in his car. It snowed a good deal in the afternoon but we came along alright. Geo Lowley was with us. As Blain was very sick Carrie went to H.P. with Willis who came for her. The Dr. said Blain had bronchial Pneu- monia and his temperature was 104º We all felt considerably concerned. Jan. 5. Carrie staid in H.P. all night and I took care of Cecil; he was very good with me. Word was received early that Blain was much better. Cecil seems very dumpish today; he has slept a good deal and when he is awake he wants me to rock him. This is a nice day and there are a good many passing with pulp and hay. Some recently hauled loads of gravel in front of our place makes it hard for teams to haul their loads. [195] Jan. 6. – Blain is still ill but Carrie came home tonight. Jan. 7 – Sunday. Willis called saying that Blain was worse and Andrea was sick and wished Carrie would come up. I drove my car up and took Carrie up prepared to stay. About 1 o’clock Willis took Andrea to the Utah-Idaho hospital and a short time after she got there she gave birth to a fine daughter. From the above date until Fri. 12- Carrie staid in H.P. nursing Blain, but Cecil took sick Fri. morning so Leland & Wanda came down & brot. Carrie. It was found that Cecil had a temperature of 104 so his mother started in doctoring him. Late at night it was reported that Blain was worse & we felt very anxious. Jan. 13. Blain was reported better this morning after a bad night. Cecil is some better. [196] We had a light fall of snow last night. and the weather is a little colder. On Wed last I received a summons to be in Salt Lake City on the 16th inst, requesting me to act as a Petit Juror. How to get away from the sick folks is a worry to me. On Jan. 15, <1922> I left home for Salt Lake City, and arrived there at 6 p.m. and went to the Semloh. 16. Reported at the Feberal building and at 10 a.m. my name was called and with over 30 others I was sworn in as a juror, and was called called in the first case in the Judge Page Morris court. Mr. Morris is from Minn. and is acting as judge while Judge Tillman D. Johnson is attending to business in the East. The case upon which I was called to act was a liquer case from [197] Bingham. After a long di- cussion the jury brot in a virdict of Guilty. Served next on a case from Springvill, which was also a liquor case. After much dis- cussion, which lasted from about 2 o’clock one day until 12 o’clock the next day, the jury failed to agree and the jury so reported to the judge and was dismissed. The Jury was kept by the state over night in the Hotel Utah. Fourteen of us slept in the same room. We were given supper & break- fast. The judge announced that hereafter the jury might go to their homes or hotels and not be kept together. Jan. 23 - I was chosen as a juror in a Mann Act case against two [198] Greeks named Sargus & Pantages in a charge brot by Rose Lavell from Baker, Oregon, who lived here in a hotel owned by Pantages. After a trial lasting until the 26, the jury was unable to agree on a virdict The names of the jury on this case were, D.M. Gillis, Adam L. Peterson, Joseph Skeen, F.L. Hines, Edwin D. Wooley, Arthur L. Thomas, H.F. Savage, John Lundberg, R.B. Moitherwell, Perry A. Bingham, C.E. Allen & W.G. Reese. Sunday. Jan. 28 – 1923 – I attended the Ensign Stake quarterly conference The speakers were Pres. Rudgar Claw- son, and Chas. H. Hart. On the way up the street I had a pleasant visit with with Bros. Hart & Clawson. Bros. Joseph A. Smith and W. Henderson came down from home tonight. Each had talked with Carrie and reported that Cecil had been very ill, but [199] was some better now. Jan. 29 – Met in Court at 10 a.m. The Judge passed sentence on several who plead guilty. One was that of two young men who plead guilty of selling narcotics and were sentenced to 1 yr. & 1 day to the Reformatory at Leavenworth Kansas. The jury was chosen but I was not on. The defendant in the case was found guilty by the jury on first ballot. My no. was not called on the next case. It was a case against a woman for selling morphine & Cocain, and a second count of having the stuff in her possesson Woman was convicted & sentenced to Leavenworth Prison. Jan. 31 – A case against one Mike Morris came up for being guilty of a violation of the Mann Act. The Jury found his guilty on 2nd bal [200] Feb. 1. The case of Mike Morris was continued and as I was not on the jury I took a walk up to the Templeton to see an old mis- sionary companion, Dr. A.B. Callison He & his wife are Chirotractors. When walking up the street by the Templeton Bro. J.M. Tanner came up behind me and tapped me on the shoulder and took me to lunch in the Z.C. Café. Later I called on Dr. Irvine who tested my eye and said it was in fine condition; he prescribed a change of lenz, which I had done at the Western Optical Company, located in the Kearns building Feb. 2 – Jos. A. Smith and I went to see Othello played in the S.L. Thea Feb, 3. A V. and Moses came down on business – Moses sold his farm to A.V. Will I. Andersen & I went to the America Sat eve. & saw Hearts Aflai[--] [201] S[--]. Feb. 4 – This p.m. at 2 oclock Bro. Jos. A. Smith & I called on Pres. CW Penrose and received a warm welcome with many others who called upon a general invitation to congratu- late this venerable church official upon his 91 birthday. He was feeling fine; that A.M. he preached a funeral sermon over an old friend of his age. Refreshments were served. In the evening Bro. Smith & I atten- ded a Methodist episcopal church Mon. Feb, 5 – I was chosen as a juror in the case of Joes. Gosse who was charged with stealing fruit out of a car. The case lasted two days. On the second ballot a verdict of not guilty was unanimous. Fruit was taken out of a car that had been opened by Gosse’s ten yr. old by & 11 yr. old girl. [202] Feb. 7 – The James Pingree Case came on for trial. I was one of the jury which consisted of the following named persens – Frank L. Hines – Salt Lake City Absolem Burris – Logan Wesley W. Ferrer – Beaver E.A. Bloomfield S.L. City Chris Peterson Tremonton C.M. Gillis S.L.C. W.G. Reese. Benson. Thos. Waldron Tremonton H.F. Savage S.L. City. Arthur L. Thomas “ N.F. Vernon “ Joseph A. Smith (foreman) Providence The prosecuting attorney is the case was Mr. Morris and the attorney’s for the defense were H.H. Henderson - Ogden Mr. Johnson, son of Tillman D. Johnson of Ogden. [203] This case lasted from the 7 to the 2. of Feb. when Judge Morris gave his charge to the Jury. The judge instructed the U.S. Marshall to take the jurors to the best restaurant in the city for their meals, and care for them until a virdict was reached, which he did. It was a hard fought battle among the jurors for 49 hr. One night we were lodged in the NewHouse hotel and the next night in the Hotel Utah. Of the seven counts against the defendant he was found guilty on only one count. and that meant a sentence of a maximum of 5 yr. in the Lea- venworth Federal Prison $5000 fine in the discression of the judge. [204] When the jury reported about noon ofn Feb. 23 we were releasd until the next morning at 10 a.m. 24 The Judge then discharged us & we settled up our affairs at the Hotel and came home. It was 6 o’clock when I got to Logan and Newel brot me home, where I found all quite well. Andrea and her two children were stay ing at our home. Mar. 25. We have had stormy weather most of the time since I came home and there have been many bad storms through- out the country. The weather is better now but there is still some snow and feed is getting scarce; and expensive. April 3 – Since writing the above many things have happened amon[-] which was the death of Bro. Chas R. Ashcroft. [205] who died in March and of the death of Wanda, a daughter Bro. Stephen Thurston of Hyde Park. [ink blot] Bad blot I say Spring weather has been with us for some time and the snow has all gone but since Mar. 30 it has been raining off and on but this evening after quite a snowstorm today it has apparently cleared and gives promise of fine weather. I have bought five tons of hay at $10 per ton from Bro. Munk so with another ton from Lionel I shall no doubt have enough to see me through. Feed is not quite so scarce this yr. as it has been. Today I received a letter from Judge Page Morris in answer to one I wrote him; it is a nice letter and coming from such a fine man, I much appreciate it. I wrote to Roland today. He is getting along fine. [206] 1923 Apr. 12 – Started sacking potatoes with Gordon, and Willis Lamb helping sold to Joseph McCann – price $ 40¢ per cwt. in sacks I bought @ 7¢ a piece. thus netting 33¢ per cwt. Weather fine with the exception of a short shower. A.J. and Libbie came home from conference and from seeing their son, Foster off for a mission to the cCntral States. 13 – Continued sacking potatoes. Beautiful day – clouded up toward evening. The sad word came from S.L.C. that A Dolph Mortensen had committed suicide He had just seen Foster off and returned to where he was working and told the manager that he was going to quite work and then went into another room and shot himself. This morning Leland phoned from H.P. saying that Wanda had given birth to a son – mother & babe alright. Animals are eating out now, with but little feed given them. [207] Apr. 27 – This morning at about 9 o’clock Wanda’s baby boy two weeks old died. Carrie went to H.P. last evening and held the baby on her lap until he died. I took Olric to Providence to sell him. After seeing a number of farmers, I left Lucile and Olric at Wm. Chugg’s barn & his son drove me to Logan in their car. Newel and I went to H.P. and I stayed at Andrea’s from 11 o’clock p.m. until 5 a.m. when I went to Leland’s and staid until car time and then went to Providence. After spending a few hours and driving around seeing farmers about buying my horse Mr. Chugg said he would find out how many would take stock in the horse & let me know Sunday. I then came home. Last Sat. & Sunday we had a terrific snow storm which caused the land to be very wet so that we have not been able to do any farm work yet. It looks discourage- about putting in our crops. [208] Saturday evening May 5 – 1923 – This has been a very busy week with us. The manure has been hauled and odds and ends have been taken care of – Yesterday I began plowing, and Willis and Gordon have been plowing today. I have planted Jonathan Smith’s corn today. Our ground has been too wet up to now. We are having beautiful weather lately On April 27 Wanda’s little boy died and on the 28 it was buried. Funeral services were held at the home, which was filled to overflowing and the services were good. Ione and Wanda are not getting along very well. I trust they will soon be O.K. June 21 – Thurs. Crops are looking fine; we have been favored this spring with generous rains. Today we have had a good down-pour as well as a nice rain during the night. [209] As hay harvest time has ar- rived we do not need rain as it would prove more harm than good. Some have a large quantity of hay down. I cut yesterday after noon and not regret doing so. The alfalfa crop is unusually good. On Sunday last the Cache Stake conference was held. Carrie & I at- tended both days. Pres. H.J. Grant and Apostle Ballard were in at- tendance and gave much very valuable instructions. R.O. & wife and A.V. went in with us Sun. A big banking convention was held in Logan Fri & Sat. last. Letters from Roland convey the good news that he is well and enjoying his labors. He and the Elders from the Ontario & Toronto conferences with Pres. Quinney have been over visiting the birthplace and other places of inst of the prophet Joseph smith & had a glorous time. [210] Yesterday my old friend Joseph Thatcher and his wife, mother, son & daughter came down from Logan to see me. I took them over the river in my car to see the old homestead of Joseph’s father, where Joseph & I often associated together. It was a source of great joy to me to see this dear friend of my boyhood days June 22. It has rained nearly all night and is cloudy and dark this morning – Vegitation looks fine June 23 – Sat. The boys and I were busy fixing up around the place with hauling off trees and digging out tiling &c. June 24. Sun. We had a good Sunday School this morning; this afternoon at 2 p.m. we have a S.S. union meeting in Logan. The weather is rather threaten- ing. We need dry weather now Ceril Munk was sustained as S.S. teacher [211] Sun. July 15 – 1923. The weather is fine and hot; everything is growing fast even weeds. Last Thurs. was the Cache Stake Old Folk’s Day in Logan. Carrie & I were in attendance and had a good time. Fri. & Sat. were Father’s & Son’s day and Sat was Mother’s & daughter’s day. We were too busy to go. Our beets are good but weedy as they have not been hoed. Seamons with four others worked on them yesterday. I cultivated them for the fourth time. Crops are looking good. Last. Mon . I sold Clip to Alfred Kearl of Lake Town, bear lake for $135. He bot several others but paid only $125 each. Last Monday our daughter Naoma gave birth to a fine baby girl at the Utah-Idaho hospital; she and babe are getting along nicely. [212] July- 20. Friday. Three Mexicans and Gordon and Arvel will finish hoeing my beets today; Seamons was too busy to do them. I am intending to go up Logan Canyon this fr. m. to join the missionaries of the South Sea-Islanders. The Saints – in fact everybody from the S.S.I. are invited. The last two days I have been ir- rigating and have worked very hard. Yesterday we received a very interesting letter from Roland; he feels well and fine in his work. Says the weather is Kitchener is fine, as it is here. Tues, Aug. 14- <1923> Today I got my false teeth from our son-in-law; Dr. N.E. Munk. They help my looks very much and I think I shall be able to get along fine with them. I have already eaten apples and my sup- per with them. What a blessing it is that our defects can be overcome to quite an extent [213] Today Carrie and I attended the funeral services of a brother of Robert W. Seeley in Smithfield He was run over by a train up in Echo canyon & Robert went up and got him & bro’t him home. The poor man was cut to peces but his face was not hurt badly. Nice funeral services were held at the Seeley home. Bp. Jno. O. Peterson took charge and the speakers were Sylvester Lowe, John J. Plowman & Bp. Peterson. The second ward choir furnished the music. C.J. Plowman offered the opening prayer and James Kirkbride pronounced the benediction & Joseph Peterson dedicated the grave. After the funeral Carrie & I went to H.P. and saw Leland & Wanda & Willis & Andrew Wanda went to Logan with us. The Elks are having a big celebration in Logan the past two days including today. [214] Last night there was a terrible rain storm in the mountains above Willard and down through as far as Farming ton resulting in floods that were very disasterous, killing many people, washing away houses, barns haystacks and stopping traffic. The bad storms we have had this summer looks like a fulfillment of the prediction of the prophet Joseph regarding the destruction that should come in the Latter-days. which should begin at the House of the Lord or in other words among the people of God or Latterday Saints. No doubt we need chastisement to make us realize our obligation to the Lord in letting our light shine so the World may see our good works and be led to glorify our Father which is in heaven. The promise is that the Lord will cut his work short in righteousness [215] Gordon arrived home from the Yellowstone National Park last Sat. evening; he & Cash Smith & Ivel Robinson left for the Park on the Sat morning before and thus they were gone nine days They had an enjoyable time While they were gone we Arvel, Lowell and I put up our meadow hay by changing work with uncle T.H. Our crops look good. We continue to receive nice letters from R[-]land. On Sunday last our sons & daugh ters and their children came as a surprise to see us in honor of the 66 anniversary of my birth There were present, A.P. Anderson & Naoma & Reese their son [-] their baby girl, John & Annie Reeder and their children Evelyn, Weldon & Aletha Wm. Winnie & W.G.II Foster, Newell, & Ione, Munk and their children Cleve, Marid[--] [216] 1923 and their babe, and Leland & Wanda Ashcroft and their daughter Barbora We spent a very enjoyable afternoon Sept. 25, 26, and 27 the Cache Co. Fair was held but on the 26 it rained so hard that there were no races and that night it rained so hard and was so rainy the next day that the Fair was adjourned. I won a blue & a red ribbon on Olrick. Great preperations had been made for the Fair in the way of cattle, horses, farm products &c. Last Sat. Friday week, Sept. 20, I finished putting up any silage & Sat & Mon. I worked for Howard Reese putting up his silage. Tues. I went to Fair. Sun. Carrie & I went to Logan to be at services in the Tab. to hear Sen Reed Smoot and Pres. Joseph Quinney speak. Had a fine meeting. Pres. Q said Roland & Milton are doing a fine mis- sionary work. [217] I threshed on Mon. and took the grain to the Smithfield grist mill yesterday. I rained last night so we could not haul hay today. There have been many serious catastrophies lately among which was an earthquate in Japan that killed many thousand people and many tidal waves and floods and R.R. wrecks. We seldom pick up a paper with learning of some dreadful distruction. Oct. 17 – We are working in sugar beets; We started Monday to haul; I took a load to sugar factory in the forenoon and Gordon took load to pile. The weather now is good but rather threatening for storm that keeps us very anxious. It is hard to get help this year to harvest the beet crop – The tonnage is better than usual this year On the 15 inst we got another bonus of 59¢ per ton on last year’s crop. [218] Benson. Oct. 20, 1923 – Carrie as Pres. of the primary of east Benson and her conselor Emma Reese arranged to take as many of the primary children to the temple to be baptized for the dead. I took a car load and Emma did also. We arrived at the temple at 12:45 p.m. and left at 4 p.m. Those wo went were Lennis Jorgensen & Lowell, Norma & Ruth Reese Maxine Smith, Leah Jorgensen, Vera Clark, Blanch Reese. = bap. for 60. May last 1922. The Religion class went to the temple for the same purpose. Norma was baptized at that time for 24 Lowell was baptized “ “ “ 24 Jan. 31 – 192[-] <1922> Norma was bap. for 20 Oct. 21 – Lafayette Hatch, who died in Holland while doing missionary service was buried in Logan. Funeral services were held at 2 oclock. instead of Stake conference of the Logan stake. Oct. 22 dug sugar beets – “ 23 snowed and rained [219] Oct. 27 – Today and yesterday we are having fine weather after the heavy rain Sunday night and Mon, which made the ground so soft that it is with difficulty that we get the beets off the land. At the beet pile there are many teams get stuck every day. This a.m. Gordon had a small jag on and the wagon went down to the axle and it took three teams to pull out. Clouds are gathering again today, A letter from Roland yesterday, stated that he was in attendance with the Elders at Hamilton and that they were having a fine time. In a letter which I sent to the Logan Republican and The Journal and which came out in the papers yesterday I complained of the heavy tax on the district # two as a preliminary tax. [220] Benson, Oct. 5 – 1923. For over a week now we have had very fine weather and beet harvesting have gone on fine. We are all through except on the Grandpa land and have only six acres left there. The ground is very soft, but by loading light I think we shall get along O.K. We continue to get good news from Roland Nov. 15. The weather is fine although we had a heavy rain during Saturday night and again Sunday night and Mon. forenoon. We finished our beet harvest last Tues. eve- The ground was wet and only small loads could be hauled off. Nearly every one is now through digging. Angus Funk is having a bad time getting his beets of the land Gordon helped Uncle Heber’s folks four days Kumen Tarbet one day and now he and some of the other boys are helping Cronquist Oct. 19 – Gordon joined with a number of others in hauling beets from the pile [221] 1923. Dec. 1, All last week and this week there have been 30 and 40 teams hauling beets at the rate of about 400 tons per day. There were over 5000 tons net in the pile and expect to have them hauled by tomorrow, Sat. night. The weather has been ideal with a full moon for morning and night. Yesterday was Thanksgiving. Leland & Wanda & Andrea were all we had to dinner. On the 25, (Sunday) Carrie’s birth- day, Noama Ione, Wanday & Andrea arranged a birthday dinner in her honor at Ione’s home. A fine dinner was served. In the evening a number of the neighbors brot their picnic and came in on us as a surprise on Carrie. An enjoyable evening was spent. During the night it snowed and rained but is clearing off this morning. [222] Last evening I wrote a letter to Roland and concluded the letter with the following lines. May the angels guard the pillow, Upon which your head is laid; May sweet slumber be your portion, Is the boon for which we’ve prayed. If at times you feel discouraged, And should think your efforts vain, May the sunshine of God’s presence Fill your soul with joy again, In the work that you are doing For the spread of gospel truth And in having thus enlisted In the glorious days of youth. It will soon be two years since Roland left for his mission and the splendid spirit that he has manifested in his letters gives evidence of the faithfulness he has exhibited in his missionary work and furnishes us compensation for what we have done for him in a financial wayx [223] 1923 Dec. 4 – The last of the Reese beet pile was hauled yesterday; Gordon taking the last load. The weather has been very fine nearly all the time during the haul- ing of the beets to the factory. While the campaign has been short it has been snappy there being grouned from 1000 to 1200 tons per day. A few days ago I received a S.L. Tele- gram in which was a picture of my old friend John James and an account of his being made vice consul for Utah, a position of honor and distinction, and one never held by any one in Utah before. Dec. 7 – On Tues. last the U.S. officer rather vetinarian was here testing animals for tuberculosis. and today he came and found my animals O.K. He found a few cases in the ward. Yesterday I sold my stallion Olric. Too[-] a Chrivolet car as part pay. Gordon traded his Ford on it. [224] Christmas – 1923. All our children and grand-children except Roland who is on a mission in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada, are home with us today. Elcluding our in- lawls are. Andrew & Naoma and their children, Reese and Venice, John & Anna and their children Evylin, Weldon and Aletha, Newel and Ione and their children Cleve, Maridine, and Veda May, Leland and Wanda & daughter, Barbara, William Winnie & son Will G, Willis & Andrea & their children Blain & Laree, Gordon, Arvel, Norma, Lowell, Ruth & Cecil. Carrie prepared a very nice dinner and, as we were all in good health we enjoyed it, O how much we have to be thankful for! Plenty to eat, a home well heated, and many of the comforts of life The weather is beautiful and the ground is bare and dry and the roads are fine. I wrote to A.N. Tanner and Homer Woolf this morning. [225] Dec, 26 – It snowed part of the night and is snowing today Wm. & Winnie stayed with us over night and are going home this morning due to the storm. We are going to take Weldon to H.P. as his parents went up there to a dance last night. Later. The arrived home safe although the snow & storm made it hard driving. We staid in H.P. only a short time, as it was so stormy otherwise we would have spent the day there and took dinner with Leland & Wanda. Other members of the family took dinner with them, including Andrea & Willis. Thurs. Dec. 27 – The storm cleared and the weather turned cold, but our heatrola warms up the home fine. This afternoon Carrie & I made a flying trip to Logan where I had my battery and the solution in my water system of my car tested. I also did a little bank business at the Cache Valley bank. [226] Jan. 1. All well. I went to Smithfield and brot RW Seeley and Mary down and they spent the day with us. We had a nice visit. I took them home in the evening. Jan. 2 Last night was very cold 15º below I went to the meadow in the [-]abs & fed the horses and brot in a jag of hay After chores we went up in the Buick for the Ford which got so cold Sunday night that Gordon could not get in to run. Gordon, Arvel and Lowell went. We got the ford started after we had pulled it below the depot. The weather is still very cold. Jan. 3 – It has been cold and stormy today. I read in The Journal to- day that Joseph A. Smith was very ill with pneumonia, so tonight I called up the home and was stricken with grief to learn that my dear friend passed away yesterday. He and have been friend many years [227] I had never learned to love him so well until last winter when he and I were jurors in the Federal Court, and staid together at the New Grand. We took our meals together, attended religious services and places of amusement together and arm in arm we spent many pleasant times stroll ing together around the streets talk- ing of our experiences in life in a most confidential way. It was a great pleasure to me to hear him recite selections from the poets and writers with whom he was better acquainted than any one whom I have ever conversedxwith The number of quotations he could give from the authors was truly marvelous. The articles he has been furnish- hing the papers of late on Mormon Hym- nal Literature has been very interesting. I think it was I who had some influence in getting him to thus write. [228] 1924 Jan. 16 – This is a nice day after a light fall of snow. Yesterday Joseph Waite was buried in Hyde Park. I did not go as I have not been feeling well for several days and seldom go out doors since last Sat. Today I wrote a short poem about Bro. Joseph A Smith, which is copied in the back of this book. The annual Farm Bureau meeting is in session today, tomorrow & Fri. in S.L.C. Brother M. Jensen Falslev went down. Jan. 22 – The weather is still cold. I have just written a letter to Roland. The health of the family is pretty good but I still keep in doors most of the time. The lines I wrote in memory of Bro. J.A. Smith appeared in the Sat. issue of The Journal & the Logan Republican. I have received a number of compliments for my work . Pneumonia is taking of a good many peo- ple just now. Bro. Thos. Irvine was buried last week. [229] Sunday – Jan. 27 – Attended S.S. and then took Bro. Howard Reese, Geo. Cowley and A.V. Reese to Logan to Union meeting. The weather is rather cold but fine & the roads are good for careful driving. I received a nice letterday from my friend John James. He says he has been confined to his room for over two weeks with “flu”. I also received a letter from a man in S.L.C. named Thos. D. Reese inquiring about my ances- tors. - We are all quite well now. Feb. 10. Sunday – Last Friday we received a letter from Roland saying that he had been released from his mission, so we shall expect him home soon. We are having beautiful weather It has been thawing today and the snow has nearly gone. However it is colder tonight, Norma & Ruth has been sick a few days but are all right now except Norma has a cold. [230] Woodrow Wilson died last Sun. Feb. 3 and was buried on Wed. All nations have joined in condolences, and in speaking words of praise of this great man The many eulogies that have been paid him by leading men give evidence of the love and esteem in which he was held. I always have held him in high esteem and loved him for the great service he has rendered mankind. A headline of one paper said Wilson was one of the most be- loved and the most hated man in the world. This shows how political prejudice can influence people. Feb. 27 – Many things have happened since writing the above. We have had beautiful weather most of the time. Yes- terday was stormy but today has been fine. [231] On the 3rd inst Roland wrote us a letter from Toronto saying he was there in attendance at con- ference and that he had been released and would soon be home Yesterday (26) we I e, Carrie and I attended the funeral services of Maggie Jorgensen – Munk - McKenna which was held in the Logan Fourth ward. Last night I wrote an extended report of the funeral for The Journal and the Republican. The Farm Bureau and the Sugar factories, after considerable discussion, reached an agreement on the price of sugar beets it being 50-50 division on the net returns with a $600 first pay- ment. The pea growers and the pea factory people have been having a very trying time. March 4 – Went to Logan for Roland & Carrie & I. He looks fine. [232] He spent two days in Salt Lake City. He and Milton Jorgensen slept at Bro. Taylor’s Leland & Wanda & Willis and Andrea were here when Carrie, Roland and I got home from Logan. We had a pleasant evening hering Roland relate his experiences. March 5. It snowed about 1 ½ inches in the night and is damp & chilly today but it looks like it is going to clear up. Roland harnessed & hitched up Brant this forenoon. While she is very touchy I think, with good cation in handling her she will be alright & make a fine animal for work. Roland has a number of good church works and gospel pamphlets. He has a strong liking for church literature It seems good to have him home again after an absence of nearly twenty seven months. – I have written four letters this morning. [233] Mar. 15. When we looked out this morning we found there were several inches of snow on the ground and it was still snowing with a cold north wind. We have only done our chores this morning and tonight. Carrie, Roland, Lowell & Cecil & I went to Hyde Park yesterday; we intended to go to Weston but it was too stormy. Last Sat & Sunday was the Cache Stake quarterly conference. Roland spoke in the afternoon of the Sunday conference and spoke very well many have told me Andrew. & Naoma and John & Anna and their children came down from Weston Sunday to see Roland. Then Winnie came down from Whitney Friday night and remained until Sunday evening Roland came down from Logan after the afternoon meeting to see the folks. and He & Norma and I went up to the evening meeting which was very Good Elders, Chas. [-] D. Co[-]k & Geo. Albert Smith spoke [234] May 8. I have planted my beets about 13 acres. corn 6 or 6 ½ a. wheat and lucern seed. 5 acres. Yesterday We – Gordon & I [-]ot the grandpa land ready for planting oats. We have had a long spell of good weather but rather cold. A rain now would be good. On April 23 our ward confer- ence was held. I was released from the superintendancy of the S. School after twelve years service. Cyril Munk. E.S. Roundy & Milton Jorgensen were sustained as the superintendancy. Melvin Ballard, Angus Funk & May 13. On the 10, I planted the gardon lot with wheat. Gordon and I worked all day on it getting out stumps & weeds, leveling & c[-]t. We have very dry weather for some and a rain is very desirable. [235] 1924 – May. Yesterday, while plowing in the farther field the [--]vis came out of the 3 horse evener, and as the plow pulled hard and I was holding tight on the lines, I was pulled out on the plow leaver & struck one of ribs of my right side so today I am laid up. One week ago last Wed. night, Frank Reese had his new Ford Coupe stolen while he was in the Capital Theatre and so far he has heard nothing of it. May 31 – After a long dry spell which was very prejudi- cial to the crops such as sugar beets, grain, lucern seed &c, it began to shower and did quite a lot of good, but we can stand more with profit I never remember when every body were clamering so much for rain before. I have been cultevating [236] sugar beets today but the beets are not hardly large enough and the stand is poor. Yesterday – Decoration Day, I took my family to Smithfield; H.P. and Logan, where we laid some flowers on the graves of our departed loved ones. The day was mostly fine although quite chilly, Had dinner at Lelands & Wandas. At the Democratic convention held last Sat. in the Court house in Logan, I was chosen one of the delegates to attend the Dem. Convention in Ogden June 5. for the purpose of selecting delegates to the Natl. convention at New York for the purpose of Naming the candidate for Pres. of the U.S. W.G. Mcadoo is the favorite of the Democrats and evedently he will be nominated, [237] June 18 – Went to Logan today with the motor of the house pump. The boys, Gordon, Arvel & Lowell were cutting & raking hay. On the 9th inst Arvel C. was ordained a priest in the Aaronic priesthood by me and on the 16th Lowell was ordain- ned a Deacon. The National Summer school opened at the Agricultural College on June 8 – Naoma is attending. William’s wife, Winnie was operated upon for Appendicitis in Pocatello Monday 2 – and came home June 15th We have had a dry spring as a result of which vegetation, especially sugar beets have not done well in germinating many seeds remaining hard. All over this Western country we hear of poor crops which means discouraged farmers. [238] August. 15 – 1924 – Heber and I got through today putting up our meadow hay. My hay was put up last and we finished about 10-15 a.m. Had a good crop. Heber & Gordon did the stacking, Howell run the fork, Arvel did most of the raking. I run the buck-rake. While the crops gave evidence early in the season of a poor harvest and we have had very little rain this sum- mer, yet the crops are getting better – and and we shall have fairly good crops This morning Bro. & sister Cowley lost their little six year old daughter, Mildred. Tonight I settled up with Gordon & Arvel for thinning & hoeing beets in full. I paid Lowell $400 [239] Benson, Nov. 8 – Beet harvest and today the 3000 tons “Reese Pile” will all be hauled to the factory. Our crop was some over 100 tons. Election is over and nearly everything went Republican, except that George H. Dern, Democrat, was elected governor. Calvin Coolidge was re-elected Pres. by a large majority. We have had beautiful weather during the beet campaign harvest, but last Wed. in snowed and it has been rather stormy & cold the past few days. Gordon & Norma are attending the North Cache High school this year. Lowell & Ruth are also attending school Arvel is helping me this winter Roland is still working on the road running a truck hauling gravel over between Corinne & Brigham city. Yesterday I had the misfortune of having a horse step on the side of my right foot & I fear my little toe is broken. [240] While my health is pretty good and I was able to haul all my beets to the pile with a little help part of the time in unloading. As Gordon & Arvel were topping & Lowell plowing out, yet I feel that I am failing – getting worse for the wear & [---] of time. Last Sunday we went to Whitney to see Wm & Winnie, Leland & Wanda & Willis and Andrea were also there and in the evening Andrew & Naoma, came also. I went with Wm. to meeting & spoke. I received a kind invitation to come again by the bishopric. Winnie is teaching school in Whitney Andrew & Naoma are teaching in the Weston High and Anna is teaching in the Cornish district, so several of our family are following the teaching profession, as Wm. Ione & Wanda and Andrew have all taught school. Frank Reese was married to Miss Pond in the Logan temple last Wednesday. [241] Dec. 9-24 Yesterday I received a letter from cousin Ethel Mayo of Scranton Penn. She says the weather there is very cold as it is here. Last night the mercury went down to 16º below zero. It is getting cloudy & warmer tonight. Today Bro. Howard Reese and I were down to administer to Bro. Marenius Anderson who is very ill and cannot lie long. He is afflicted with cancer of the stomach & liver – a dreadful thing. We are having good ward gathering this winter. I have charge of the Melchizedek priesthood Mon. evenings Pres. Joseph E. Cardon, G.W. Lindquist and Wm. M. Everton were in attendance. We had a little discussion in the class in regard to the translation of the Book of Mormon. Bro. Everton claimed that Joseph Smith cop

ied from Isaiah in the bible where Nephi refers to his writings; I claimed that he translated from the Records of Mormon. [242] While the Saints are growing stronger and better in their religious duties the other denominations are drifting away from their creeds. There are numerous auto accidents these days some of which are very distressing often resulting in death. A few days ago the Bank at Bountiful was robbed of $1500. Later in the day five Salt Lake men were out on a business trip and stopped near an automobile which proved to be the car in which the robbers were and they opened fire killing a very fine young man named Heath. The other men were not hurt. The banditts left the car and fled but were soon captured and taken prisoners. They confessed to the crime. There is seldom a paper comes to us that does not tell of some horrible deed of robbery and murder. [243] I am very thankful that we are all well and have sufficient to eat, to wear and to make us comfortable especially when we stay in the house by the fire. Dec. 17, A very cold wave, register- ing 46o below zero in Benson on the 18 & 19, has recently passed over the country, causing much suffering and many deaths It began snowing Sat. evening and con- tinued all night & Sun. & Sunday night and Monday so the snow is quite deep, making traveling quite difficult. Roland is home for awhile as work on the road has been suspended for awhile until the weather gets better. Sunday Jan, 4. We attended, as a family, S.S. and Fast meeting today. We went down in a sleigh. I drove Bell & Brant. Some of the neighbors went down with us. We had a good S.S. and meeting. The weather is rather cold but not unendurable. [244] Roland went back to work the day before New years, as the cars were loaded with gravel and the contractors did not want to pay demur[--] We were sorry to see him go as it was cold and the snow was deep. Leland & Wanda and Willis & Andrea took New Year’s dinner with us. Today sister Winona had her baby blessed and requested that I be “mouth”. the babe was named Winona. We received Christmas cards from Mr. & Mrs. R.B.T Taylor, Dr. & Mrs. W.E. Munk, John James (Christmas Carol) Inis, Annie Vaughan, Walk &Mary Seeley. Mr. & Mrs. A.P. Anderson Wm. & Winnie, Wanda & Leland, and Old Lady Steele and one from Elder Athen who is on mission in Hawaii. Sunday, Jan. 11 – Just returned from S.S. Went down in the Buick Barbara & Leon went with us. Carrie did not go as she was not feeling very well. I, too, spent a [245] bad night with a bad severe headache most of the night, but got better toward morning. Norma was not able to go to school Thurs. & Friday, she is still ailing but is getting better. Dave Reese is very ill in the Cache Valley Hospital; he has been there several days and is not expected to live long as his heart is so enlarged that it cannot pump the blood through his body and therefore his circulation is so bad that one of his feet is practically dead. It is surly too bad, especially when it is evident that his trouble has been bro’t on him on account of dissipation. To think of his leaving his wife and family of small children, makes one feel very sad. He has been a very good neighbor and we shall greatly miss him. He has many friends who will be greatly greased grieved when he goes. [246] Benson, Feb. 9 – When I last wrote Dave Reese was in a very critical Condition & not expected to live. His foot was amputated also part of his leg above the ankle and he is recovering for which we feel thankful. We have had spring weather lately and the snow has mostly gone. Yesterday Benson ward conference was held in the afternoon & evening. Roland came home from his work on the road by Corrinne last Friday night as the road is too muddy to run the truck Followers of the Roevenist Cult were expecting the end of the world last Sat. night and as it did not come to pass the followers of Rowena is beginning to loose faith in her as a prophet. It seems strange that some people are so foolish as to believe any thing almost that comes along in the shape of a prediction, yet they can- not see the truth when taught. [247] Feb. 9 – continued. Today I received a letter from the Cache Stake presidency asking me to act as a member of a committe to raise funds to help the B.Y. College. An effort is being made to raise an endowment fund for the B.Y. Feb – 13. My wife and I were in atten- dance at the Hyde Park ward reunion and so were T.H., A.J., A.V. and their wives as we all received a special in- vitiation for “Old times sake”. We had a very enjoyable time in meeting so many old friends, listening to the fine program and partaking of the splendid dinner We had supper with Leland & Wanda & then went to the dance, which was very crowded. Feb. 17. We are having beautiful weather and we are all well. Dave Reese is coming home today. It is a miracle that he recovered from his illness. Roland was home Sunday; he is still working on the road by Corinne. [248] 1925 Feb. 23 – The past three days including today, have been stormy including rain & snow. The snow has about all disappeared. Grass is be- ginning to shoot up. We are all well. Andrea & children spent most of last week with us. As far as we know all our children are well. Roland was home over Sunday. Benson, April 22 – For over a week we have had stormy weather especially since last Friday have we had a lot of moisture and today it is cold and cloudy by there are some signs of clearing. Arvel and I had the piece north of the house and the piece by Mr. Mathew’s place nearly ready for planting to sugar beets and oats & Lucern seed. The first to beets & the piece by Mathews place to lucern & oats. On Sat. last I plowed some over an acre in the east field. As it was land that had been in lucern several years it was hard plowing but I had four head of good horses. – Dick & Duke and Bell & Brant. [249] A good many farmers around here have planted their beets and corn, but any land was two wet to start on it early. So far we think we are having a nice spring. The recent storm period has wrought havoc in many parts of the country. destroying by fire and flood many towns and killing many people, and causing much distress. On Easter Sunday I took my family to Weston where we took dinner with A.P. & Naoma. J.F. Reeder & family were also here. We had a very enjoyable time. On Sun. last (19) R.B.T Taylor & R.O. Reese took dinner with us. Roland was also with us and brought two of his lady friends with him from Corinne where he is still running a truck for the bridge construction company. He boards at the home of Mr. & Mrs. Turner the parents of the young ladies above mentioned. Clive spent from Turs, eve until Sat eve with us as his parents were on an outing to Pocatello. [250] Apr. 22. At present there is considerable agitation over a move to have Sun. Shows in the Logan theatre houses. The Chamber of Commerce and some of the business men of Logan thought it would furnish amus ment for the force of men working on the Utah Power & Light Co. dam in the canyon on Bear river. The Church of Jesus Christ of L.D.S. of the Logan Stake voted almost unanimously against it. Today I received a nice letter and a copy of The Druid from my friend John James of S.L. May 4 – We have had beautiful weather since the rain and I planted my sugar beets on the 28, and 29 of April and they are beginning to appear above the ground. I think it was well that I did not plant before the storm as the beets planted before the rain are held back by a heavy crust that formed On Sat last May 1, Gordon planted the corn. We had the ground in good shape Planted on the 7 a. on Grandpa land. [251] Today I planted oats & lucern seed on the two acres & gardon lot, in the forenoon and this p.m. I planted some oats in the farther field. Arvel and I were working the ground near the [-]asture for oats; we expect to be through there on Thus. I think we are putting our ground in better shape this spring than we ever have before. Carrie has sure made the ground surrounding the house look nice with many beautiful flowers some of which are now in bloom. She certainly deserves much credit for the work she has done in helping to beautify our surroundings While writing Norma is playing the piano and she certainly plays well. Gordon and Norma as still attending the Richmond or rather North Cache High Ruth & Lowell are also in school across the road. E.J. Clark is their teacher. Cecil is growing to be a strong built lad and he is a general favorite with all [252] Benson, May 11-1925. Monday. We are having a nice shower this morning Yesterday was “Mother’s Day.” We all went to Sunday School. Gordon offered the opening prayer; it was his first time to prayer in public and he was quite embarrassed but he got along very well. There were 263 present. Each of the mothers was presented with a nice little book- let of poems by W.A. Morton. At night there was a large gathering and a nice program was rendered. Bp. Stoan of Logan was the speaker I rose was given the mothers. On Sat. last we finished putting in our crop. We planted one acre of potatoes, Russets, in the farther field. Our sugar beets are all coming up fine, better, I think, than if I had planted before the rain. Yesterday – Andrew & Naoma and their two children Reese & Venice; Leland & Wanda & Barbara, Willis[-] & Andrea and Blain & LaRee took dinner with us; Roland was also with us as well as our children who are home. Newel & Ione and Cleve, Maridine, Veda May and Renie [253] also were here a short time in the evening. Newel & Ione and A.P. & Naoma gave Carrie a[-] nice box of chocolates and Andrea & Willis gave here some rose bushes. We have much for which to be thankful. Sun. May 17. Wm. Winnie <& Will. G.> came down from Whitney and spent part of the day with us. Wm. & I have taken a walk over the farm and find the sugar beets, the oats and the lucern coming fine. We continue to have rain at frequent intervals. Some think we are having too much, but others including myself, think it is alright up to date. On Thurs (14) I attended James Purser’s Purser’s funerl at Hyde Park. I went up with A.J. I was one of the speakers. Sunday – June 7 – 1925 – Today is the [-]7th anniversary of William’s wedding, the 7 annversary of Cleves birth, and the 27 anniversary of the departure of Mary from earth. We have all been to S. School except Gordon & Arvel. [254] For over a week we have been having heavy rains, and it has very greatly. interfered with beet thinning and the beets are getting large. Benson, June 15- Naoma has been in the Utah-Idaho hospital for over a week suf- fering from a complication of troubles, but mostly from an enlarged liver. C.D. (Dave) Reese passed away about 2 o’clock today after suffering for a- bout 2 weeks. Some time ago he had one of his legs imputated below the knee caused by a blood clot This operation was in Feb. and it was thought he would be alright; but not so. He got along nicely for some time, moved with his family to Logan and it was sincerely hoped that he would be alright but not so;- his other leg got so bad it was amputated above the knee but the strain on his vitality was too heavy an after untold agony he passed away. [255] He leaves a wife and six children It is so sad to see a young man like he was pass away and leave a wife and young children who need so much the help of a companion and father The weather has been very un- settled for a long time now and we have been favored by copious rains one of which was during last night when there was a heavy down-pour. We are getting anxious about our hay crop, as the weather does not give any promise at present for a clearing away; however the kind Al-Father has always cared for us and no doubt always will. Last Friday the boys finished thinning my beets and the crop looks good. All kinds of vegita[-]n is looking good. [256] 1924 June 18 – Dave Reese was buried today. There was a very large number in attendance at the Logan 1st ward Chapel. and the services were very good. June 19. Cultivated sugar beets in the fore- noon and corn in the afternoon. 20. Began cutting alfalfa today. The weather is rather threatening for rain. We are hoping the weather may keep fine until we harvest our hay crops. Aug. 3. Many things have happened since writing the above. We got our alfalfa crop in without being rained on. Last week we finished putting up our meadow hay including T.H’s and cut our second crop alfalfa Gordon, Arvel. & Lowell hauled Sat. and today, Monday. Yesterday mor- ning I had a bad pain strike me on the small of my back and have been laid up ever since. I am unable to do anything [257] Aug – 3 – continued. We have had fine weather here but there have been showers around in the Co. and in parts of the U.S. there have been very destructive storms and floods. Of late have been several sudden deaths among which was that of B.F. Riter – a dear old friend of mine for many years. also also Wm Jennings Bryan one of American’s greatest men, also Brigham Hendricks of Richmond. All these men were younger than I. Our daughter, Naoma left home with us last Saturday after a months stay with us. She has several complications that threaten her life one of which is albuman also a goiter the doctors say. This evening we received a ‘phone mes- sage from Naoma who is staying with Ione saying that Cleve had been thrown from his Shetland pony a had his arm broken. Some time Reese was thrown from the same pony a had his arm broken. [258] Benson, Aug. 17 – 1925- Yesterday (Sunday) There were 31 members of our family present at our home by in- vitiation of my wife who served a dinner in honor of the 68 anniversary of myself and the 21 anniversary of the birth of Gordon W. A very nice dinner was served and later ice-cream & cake. We spent an enjoyable afternoon. Andrew and Reese were in Fillmore and Willis Lamb had not returned from the canyon where he had gone for wood three days before. Our birthday was on the 15th but as the family could not get together on Sat it was celebrated on Sun. On Thurs. evening Pres. Andreas Peterson called me up and requested me to speak Summoning at the High Priests meeting on the subject of the resurrection. On Sat, Carrie A.V. & I attended the funeral Robert D Roberts who was killed Sun. night by an automobile. [259] The past few days have been quite cool especially have the nights been cold. Sept. 24. Carrie & I have been to Smithfield Hyde Park & Logan this afternoon. At Smithfield we called to see Aunt Mary, who gave Carrie some Lemon Lilly, Pink Ponies and Beefsteak Begonia bulbs. At H.P. we called to see Wanda, & Andrea, In Logan we called at Dr. Monk’s to see Cleave who is just recovering from an attack of pneumonia; he was feeling pretty well but Ione was feeling miserable. Andrew, Naoma & Reese were in Logan. They came down to see Andreea’s brother C.H. who was recently operated upon for appendicitis at the Utah-Idaho hospital. We have had heavy rains recently that has been good for beets & fall grain but hard on alfalfa & alfalfa see. I have mine cut and raked but it is too wet to haul, [260] Due to the recent rain the Fair officials called it off, but the past three days have been beautiful Last Sunday Carrie, Roland & I at- tended the Cache stake Conference in Logan Pres. C.W. Nibley & apostle Geo. F. Richards were in attendance. both of whom gave valuable in- structions and encouraging talks. Oct. 31 – The month of Oct. has been a very busy month. On the second Carrie and I left home at 7 o’clock a.m. for con- ference in the Buick and A.V. Rhoda left in their Olds. At Logan T.H. & Maggie joined us. We made a quick trip to S.L.C. arriving there shortly before noon. We put up at the Semloh. We spent Sunday in at- tendance at conference, which was good Mon: we attended the State Fair. It was so stormy however that we did not get much out of it exhibits the exhibits in Farm, Dairy, garden products and in [261] various manufactured articles. In the evening Carrie and I ate dinner and spent the evening at Bro. & Sister R.B. T. Taylor’s. He took us to the hotel in his car We had a splendid time with them. Tues. forenoon I attended conference while the others attended business. At 1 o’clock we left for home at arrived about 6 p.m. found all well and everything O.K. On the 7 & 8th we dug out potatoes. Two Mexicans, whom Doan brot to help me in the beets, helped Arvel & me. Gordon was in Whitney helping Wm. with his beets On Fri. Friday <7th > afternoon I began plowing out beets and Arvel & the Mexicans began topping Sat. Arvel began hauling. The Mexican staid only a few days and it looked like we were not going to have help, but three Hyde Park boys, Golden Jensen Bert. Balls and Adelbert Seamons came and helped us until we finished which was on Friday Oct. 23. Had 324 tons. ]262] Mon. Oct 26 Arvel & I began plowing on the Grandpa land and finished at noon on Thurs. and then started in the farther field. We have done the deepest plowing I have ever done especially on the grandpa land. I expect to plant sugar beets there next year and as I have not succeeded in getting much of a crop there the past 3 years I though we had better plow up another farm that was under- neath. Gordon has been helping in topping A.V.’s beets. All the farmers are getting a good beet tonnage this year. The ‘Reese” pile must have in it about 8000 tons with more to come. There is hardly rooms enough now in the yard to hold the rest of the beets in the fields We are having beautiful weather in Utah so far this fall, but it has been very bad in many parts of the country Some time ago it snowed in Idaho [-] Montana Heavy rains on the South prevented the harvesting of the cotton crop and droutht in other parts prevailed. [263] 1925 Nov. 1st Today we all attended S.S. except Gordon. There was a large attendance. When. we got home we found Naoma & Andrew & children here. In the afternoon Leland & Wanda, Willis and Andrea & their children – Later Newel and Ione & children came down and spent a short time. Carrie & I took a drive to Smithfield to see Walk & Mary as we had promised to get a piece of deer which Walk had shot the day before in Blacksmith fork canyon. Little Venice is very poorly in health. but she is on the sweetest little things. We went to conjoint meeting in the eve- ning. There were two returned missionaries Elders Green of Smithfield & Eliason of Hyrum present who spoke. There was Miss Holman also who sang two songs very beautifully. Nov. 2 – Stormy today. Boys killed pig. [264] 1925 Nov. 3 – Snowing this morning. considerable moisture has fallen. cold & cheerless. Nov. 6. Yesterday Carrie and attended the funeral services of L.L. Cash 95 years of age, at Hyde Park there was a large attendance of people from Logan, Smith- field & Benson as well as many H.P. people He was quite a character & a firm L.D.S. Today hauling sugar beets from the Reese pile began. Gordon hauled two loads Arvel took dolly and Molly to Smithfield to get them shod. I received a nice letter from John James. British Vice Consul at S.L.C. He spoke in highest praise of the Royal Welsh Singers of Perth, South Wales. The weather is not so cold as last night, but it is getting cloudy and may storm soon again. A short letter from Naoma stated that she was going to S.L. City with Venice as the dear little girl has to have the caste changed on her leg. [265] 1925 Nov. 25. Today is Carrie’s birthday. The girls had decided to have a party at Wanda’s in her honor, but arrangements had been previously made for the officers to give the primary children a party so she felt that she had to stay with them. I have not been able to do any work this week as my lungs have been in a condition threatening pneumonia and my throat is sore. I feel weak and much “under the weather”. Gordon and Arvel have been very busy hauling beets from the pile this week but Gordon hauled over one load this morning and had now left for a trip with Geo. Thain and Dean to S L. City Arvel has’hauled 3 loads each day this week or 12 loads. The pile is nearly all gone but as tomorrow is Thanksgiving there will be no hauling otherwise the pile of 8000 Tons would be finished. We are having beautiful weather and the roads are fine. The plan having a picture show after the Mon. night meetings is re[---] in drawing a large crowd. [266] Nov. 26 – Thanksgiving. The only ones of the family who ate dinner at home today were father, mother, Roland, Arvel, Norma, Lowell, Ruth and Cecil. Had a nice dinner. A drizzling rain prevailed all day. Thoughts of thankfulness. √ How thankful I am that my parents in youth, Had the courage and faith to accept of the truth And leave their dear brothers & sisters and friends And all that the land of ones birth comprehends For their love of the gospel of Christ as restored By heavenly messengers sent by the Lord. ______ How thankful I am for our home in the West Where in peace we reside and with plenty weer blest. Where the laws of the Lord and the laws of the land. Are faithfully taught by our Father’s command. Where brotherly love and good feelings abound More potent by far than can elsewhere be found. ________ How thankful I am that I have not a doubt That the Gospel restored will put error to route. That truth in the end will prevail over wrong And the Latterday Kingdom grow mighty and strong ]267] √ When the gospel of Christ will illumine the world And falsehood and error to Hades be hurled, _______ The joys and the sorrows we mortals must bear, For friends who are true, whom you certainly know, Are not feigning a friendship for profit or show; Whose grasp of the hand gives a thrill of delight, Conveying assurance h[--] hearts is just right. ________ How thankful I am for our nation so grand. Eclipsing all others of every land. For leaders devoted to their country’s cause Maintaining its prestige, upholding its laws Extending to all without favor or fear The justice to every American, dear. [268] √ On the morning of Jan. 16 – 192[-] I wrote the following lines to the memory of my friend Joseph A. Smith of Providence who died Jan. 2, 1924. The voice of our dear friend is still. On earth his form we ne’er shall see; In answer to The Master’s will He bid adieu to you and me. -2- His going was a heavy blow To those who dearly loved him here, He lived for service, not for show In life’s great school, he was sincere -3- No idleness he ever knew He keenly felt ambition’s thrill; To ignorance he bid adieu And stood on learning’s lofty hill. -4- Retiring, gentle, modest, brave Were qualities of heart and brain To patious promptings ne’er a slave His life’s career was not in vain. [269] -5- It ever was his constant aim To raise his mark in life’s grand school He never sought for worldly fame - He never could be4 made a tool. -6- Discouragements he often met But did he murmur or complain? Or did he fume around and fret Not he! he struggled on again. -7- His makeup was of sterner stuff. Celestial fire within his breast Enabled him to stand rebuff, While on through life he boldly prest. -8- A hero! yes a man of God, With songs of praise upon his lips, He firmly held the “iron rod”; In faith but few could him eclipse. -9- How glad I am I knew him well, His memory to me is dear; [270] My heart with fond emotions swell While oft I shed a silent tear. 10 O may I meet him over there Where partings never shall be known, And there with loved ones ever share The glory round our Father’s throne. [271] [-] I wrote the following lines for July 24-1921 Is anyone so very dense he cannot understand. That the Pioneers were guided by a Providential hand In their journey to these mountain tops where prophets had <(foretold> That Israel in these latterdays may righteousness unfold. -2- Can anyone conceive the thought that poor nearsighted <(man> Could consummate a work so great, or institute a plan To gather souls from hear and far, e’en lands beyond <(the sea> And make them strong and happy, patriotic, brave and -3- No! No! ‘tis not in human power such marvels to perform. The God of heaven was leading them in sunshine and in storm Protecting, guiding, giving strength in times of sorest need. That in the task before them Israel surely would succeed. -4- It is altogether fitting that throughout these moun We should sing our songs of gladness and relate the <(many tales> Of trials and of hardships that the Pioneers passed through [272] To blaze the way across the plaines and over mountains too. 5 In recounting all the blessings that kind Providence bestows Our hearts should swell with gratitude – as everybody knows, Our faith in Providential power should every day be strong. And we should strive untiringly to help God’s work along. -6- Many of the pioneers have gone to their reward. And what they here accomplished we all have a high regard. And with a firm and high resolve all Utahns should maintain Their standard high and glorious while we on earth remain. [273] -7- While strife and turmoil fill the earth world, how blessed it is to be - How blessed it is to Located in these peaceful vales where everyone is free To persue his avocation, without restraint or fear. And uphold religious liberty to righteous men most dear. -8- So let the glorious stars and stripps wave high o’er this fair land And may we join in song and praise, united heart and hand, To bring to pass the purposes for which God brought us here Ad may we never fail in this through haughtiness or fear. [274 is blank] [275] Important events – Feb. 22 – 1922 p154 Apr. 10. AJ. and I were operated upon for the removal of a cataract from our eyes by Dr A.R. Irvine at the L.D.S. hospital. Aug. 30 We got our reading & far sighted glasses. 1923 Apr. 13. Wanda gave birth to a fine boy. April 27 – Wanda & Leland lost their baby boy May 27 – Gordon Wayne Reese was ordained a Priest by [-] [-] Ballard jr (Utah Idaho) July 9 – Naoma had a baby girl in U-I hospital Sept. 25 – Ruth Maurine was bap- tized in the Logan Temple by Bp. W.R. Sloan. July 3 – 1921 Cecil Everet was born in Benson Sept. 4 – 1921 Cecil Everet was blessed by his father W.G Reese in the Fast meeting. 7 Benson Mar 4 – Roland arrived home from Canada June - <9th> 1924 – Arvel C. was ordained a Priest by WG June 16. Lowell was ordained a Deacon by Bp. H.W. Ballard Jr. [276] 1925 – June 15 C.D. Reese died today at the Cache Valley hospital. [277] 75 Lines written upon the death of Bernice, the 12 year old daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Jonathan Smith, on Dec. 19-1916. Dear Friends, how heartrending to part with Bernice! A daughter so gentle and kind: Whom to know was to love, with intensified love With a knowledge of her noble mind. Our hearts throb with sympathy for your distress, And are grieved at the loss we too bear; In having her sweet little angelic soul, Pass beyond our companionship here. Her life, though so brief was filled to the brim, Of qualities greatly admired; Which made her attractive to old and to yong. And her presence was always desired. [278] If I were but able to lighten your grief, Or help you, your sorrow to bear, I’d take a deep draught from Your most bitter cup. And of your deep anguish I’d share. [279] Important Events. June 7 – 1916 William Grover was married to Winifred Foster in the Logan Temple. Carrie, went through with them. Dec. 22 – 1916 Sophronia Ione was married to Dr. Newel Munk in the Salt Lake Temple. Jan. 17 – 1917 Roland A. Reese was ordained a teacher at priesthood meeting by Bp. Howard Reese, AJ Reese Marenus Jensen the latter being mouth. 1918 Sun. June 16 – I was ordained a High Priest by Elder J.Z. Stewart who was assisted by B.M. Lewis Fred Mitchell and J.E. Carlisle. Sunday 1918 – Sept. 1 – I blessed my grandson and At Richmond – gave him the name of Cleave Newel. Munk, son of Newel and Ione who was born June 7st [280] Wed. Sept. 18 – 1918 Ann Eliza Reeder gave birth to a daughter at Weston Wed. Oct. 2. 1918 Mary Naoma Anderson gave birth to a son at Nephi. 1919 – Jan. 5, I blessed Naomi’s baby at Lavan and gave him the name of Reese Claytor other Wm. Jr. assisting – On the same day Anna’s babe was blessed by the Bishopric at Weston & given the name of Mary Naoma. On Sept 10 – 1918 Norma Marie was baptized in the Logan te[-]pel by S Erastus Lamb confirmed by Thos. Morgan Feb. 4 – 1919 Sam Christiansen died this morning of pneumonia See page 68 On Oct. 11 – 1885 I was ordained a Seventy by Elder Junius Fullmer. June 16 – 1919 Andrew Anderson, “ 15 “ He died Carrie’s brother, was buried. July 1 – 1919 – John & Anna lost their little daughter Mary Naoma – She was buried July 3. [281] Important Events. 1919 July 24 - Chas A. Reese died. buried July 28- February 24 – 1920 Our daughter Mrs. Ione Munk gave birth to a daughter in the Utah-Idaho 1920 hospital. Mar. 13 – Ann Eliza Reeder gave birth to a daughter in the Utah-Idaho hospital. Sun. Mar. 28 – I blessed Anna’s baby. named her Aletha May 1919 July 1 – The sweet little girl died and was buried in Hyde Park 1920 May 25. Lowell Sern was baptized in the Logan temple by Sylvester and confirmed by Thomas Morgan. Thurs. Feb. 3 – Gordon Wayne was 1921 ordained a teacher by M.J. Falslev Sun. July 3 – 1.30 p.m. baby boy was born – (Cecil Everet July 6 <1921> Andrea was married to Willis Lamb. [282] 1921 July 3, baby boy was born. “ Sept. 4 Baby <(Cecil Everet> was taken to meeting house and blessed by his father assisted by Bp. H.W. Ballard jr. & counselor Sylvan Peterson H.W. Ballard & Howard Reese and named Cecil Everett. Oct. 5 – Andrea gave birth to a son [---]. 29 – 1921 Roland was ordained an Elder by Jno. Quayle. Dec. 1, Roland went through the Logan temple. Dec. 6. Roland was set apart for a mission in the Bp’s building by Apostle Melvin J. Ballard for a mission to Canada. Jan. 1, 1922 Andrea’s boy was named Blaine Reese Lamb and blessed by W.G.Reese. This makes seven of my twelve grandchildren that I have blessed. [283] Pasturing cattle and horses 1917 C.A. Reese June 1 -14 head. Otto Beutler June 9 – 1 colt 2 calves. Leland Ashcroft. May 31 two colts. Heber Lundberg June 15 mare & colt. 1919. Geo Sorensen put a colt in my pas. about Mon. Nov. 24-1919 – The men who are appointed to classify the land in township thrirteen, viz. George Toolsen, Alma Hillyard, Henry Mickle, classified my land in this township as follows. A. 31, B. 6, D. 37.62 and waste 2 acres. Jan. 9. Sold 3 veals to Gutkie on acct weighing respectfully 108-95 & 80 lb @ 12¢ or total of 283 – 6 = 277 @ 12¢ = $33.24 [284] 283 6 277 12 33.24