Tag Archives: Colonia Chuhuichupa

Junius Romney

1878-1971

Born March 12, 1878, in St. George, Utah, Junius Romney was the son of Miles Park and Catherine Cottam Romney.

Miles Park’s father, Miles, had moved to St. George under the direction of Church leaders and was playing a significant role as a builder, supervising, for example, the construction of the tabernacle. Miles Park assisted in that construction as head of the carpentry shop. He had other business interests and civic commitments, most notable in drama, and served in various church administrative capacities. Catherine, Junius’s mother, was born to a family which had settled in St. George in 1862. Because Miles Park had five wives, several of whom had large families, brothers, sisters, and cousins abounded.

When he was three years old, Junius accompanied his his family to St. Johns, Arizona, one of several centers of Mormon settlement on the Little Colorado River. They first settled in town in a log cabin with a dirt floor, later replaced with a nice frame home. The Romney family was in the middle of an intense anti-Mormon campaign to which Miles P. responded vigorously as editor of a newspaper and which forced Catherine and others to flee their homes periodically. This persecution became so intense that Junius and most of his family returned to St. George in 1884.

This second period in St. George was temporary while Miles P. and others investigated places in Mexico to which they could flee for safety. Junius and his family lived with Catherine’s parents, the Cottams, who at the same time furnished a hiding place for Wilford Woodruff who was being pursued by government authorities. To help support the family, Junuius tended cows in the surrounding desert. So hot was the sand at the time that he recollects moving from the shade of one bush to another, crying as he stood on one bare foot and then the other to allow each an opportunity to cool. When he reached eight years of age, he was baptized in the temple font. Then in 1886, Catherine and her children were instructed to join Miles P. and others in Mexico. The Cottams generously outfitted them with clothing and, following blessing from Wilford Woodruff, Junius Romney and the others left for their new home in Mexico.

During January of 1887, they traveled by train to Deming, New Mexico, then by wagon into Mexico. ON the way, Junuius was thrown from the wagon and run over. His ear, torn almost completely from his head, was replaced and bandaged in place by his mother. On arriving in Colonia Juarez, the newcomers joined two of Miles P.’s other families—Annie’s, who was living in a dugout beside the river in the “Old Town,” and Hannah’s, who lived in a house of vertical poles called a “stockade house.” Catherine’s house was their wagon box to which were attached a bowery and a small wooden room.

Life was simple and family centered—simple clothes, straw or husk tick on the beds, a diet of corn, beans, molasses, greens and thinned milk, and occasional treats of wheat flour bread. In his later years, Junius still enjoyed the simplicity of a sweet apple off a tree or a dinner of cheese, bread, and milk.

After about a year in Colonia Juarez, the three Romney wives and the family of Helaman Pratt moved to Cliff Ranch, a small valley along the Piedras Verdes Riverin the mountains. Here they lived for about two years in seclusion. This required independence and innovation. Junius Romney recalls how his mother and the other adults provided religious and intellectual instruction in addition to the necessities of life. Work included herding cows barefoot in the snow and building irrigation systems. Natural greens, potatoes, and grains were staples with treats of molasses cake, nuts and potato pie. In addition to other qualities he may have developed there, Cliff Ranch increased Junius Romney’s appreciation of his family.

In the fall of 1890, the Romney’s returned to Colonia Juarez, and not long thereafter, Junius Romney moved to a farm which his father had purchased about a mile west of Casas Grandes. There, with his Aunt Hannah and her family, he worked for three years and received the benefit of three months’ formal schooling per year in Colonia Juarez.

In his 16^th year, Junius Romney became an employee of the Juarez Cooperative Mercantile Institution. This led him into his vocation as a businessman and into a close association with Henry Eyring, the manager. In that occupation, he became acquainted with the Mexican people, merchandising procedures, Mexican law, bookkeeping, Spanish, and the postal service. He soon became postmaster, a position he held for 13 years. Junius later observed how much he owed to Henry Eyring, who also taught frugality through making bags out of newspapers in order to save buying them commercially.

It was during this time that Junius Romney became acquainted with Gertude Stowell, daughter of Brigham and Olive Bybee Stowell. Brigham operated the mill on the east side of the river south of town and owned a cattle ranch north of town. Gertrude grew up willing to work hard, a trait she preserved throughout her life, and was also interested in intellectual activities and things of beauty. After she broke her engagement to another young man, Junius courted her earnestly. His correspondence with her progressed from “Dear Friend” to Dearest Gertrude” and culminated in their marriage in the Salt Lake Temple on October 10, 1900.

Junius Romney continued his work in the Juarez Mercantile as their family began to grow. Olive was born in 1901, Junius Stowell, called J.S., in 1903, and Catherine (Kathleen), in 1905. That Kathleen survived, having been born at only two and one-half pounds while both parents were suffering from typhoid fever, is something of a miracle. Margaret was born in 1909. Catherine, Junius’s mother, lived with them for a time after the death of Miles P. in 1904.

The typhoid fever that both Junius and Gertrude suffered was accompanied with pneumonia for Junius, but after limited professional medical care and extensive aid from family and friends, they recovered.

More important, for Junius, was the fact that an early administration by Church Elders did not heal him. He concluded that the Lord needed to impress him that he indeed had typhoid fever and his eventual recovery indicated that the Lord had a purpose for his life, a purpose he saw fulfilled in his role as leader during the Exodus of 1912. Successful healings from priesthood administration shortly thereafter reinforced this opinion.

The young couple lived in an adobe house directly north of the lot upon which the Anthony W. Ivins house once stood and the Ward building now stands. In about 1906, a substantial brick house, which still stands, was built. The bricks were cooperatively prepared with several other families.

The resulting structure with its clean lines and decorative wooden trim was equal to any similar sized house built in Salt Lake City at the time, and, in fact, reflected the strong North American orientation of the colonists.

Junius continued to work in the Juarez Mercantile store until about 1902. He thereafter worked for the Juarez Tanning and Manufacturing Company until about 1907. He continued as postmaster, handling business from a room made on their front porch. In addition to this work, Junius was very much involved in other business activities such as buying and selling animals and land, and supervising some agricultural production. He handled some legal matters for colonists and taught bookkeeping and Spanish at the Juarez Academy.

For two months during the summer of 1903, while Gertrude tended the post office and their two young children, Junius Romney went to Salt Lake City where he attended the LDS Business College. His studies included penmanship, bookkeeping, and typing. Among his extra-curricular activities were attendance at bicycle races at Saltair, as well as visiting relatives. In addition to the three three-month periods of schooling while he lived on the farm near Casas Grandes, and about three years of taking classes at the Academy just before his marriage, this stay at the business college concluded his formal education.

During these early years of marriage, Junius served as Second Counselor in the Stake Sunday School Superintendency. During a very busy January, 1902, he served as an MIA Missionary in which calling he participated in a flurry of meetings in Colonia Juarez. He also served as Stake Clerk, which with his Sunday School calling, led him to visit throughout the colonies and to become acquainted with the conditions of the Church and the people. He also learned much of Church administration.

Two major recreational activities occurred during these years. The first was a visit in 1904 by Junius Romney and a friend to the World’s Fair in St. Louis. The second was a trip in company with the Stake President, Anthony W. Ivins, into the Sierra Madres where President Ivins owned some land. Junius fished and hunted and, more significantly, enjoyed the association of the man whom he was soon to succeed as Stake President.

As the government of President Diaz came under attack and was eventually defeated by the forces of Francisco I. Madero, the Mormon colonies were drawn into the struggle. Junius processed various damage claims submitted by the colonists to contending parties, and, as President of the Stake, he became directly involved in the aftermath of the death of Juan Sosa, which occurred in Colonia Juarez in 1911. In the Sosa matter, he assisted in hiding colonists who, as deputies, had participated in the shooting. He eventually met with a local judge and sent a letter to President Madero on behalf of the fugitives. This letter at last reached Abraham Gonzales, formerly Governor of Chihuahua and then Secretary of the Interior in Mexico City. Gonzales directed that the prosecution of the Mormon deputies be discontinued. Eventually the matter was forgotten as the military struggle increased in intensity.

Soon after President Ivins was called to be a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles, John Henry Smith and George F. Richards of the same quorum came to Colonia Juarez to reorganize the Stake. In the meetings of March 7 and 8, 1908, these visiting authorities selected Junius Romney as the new Stake President with Hyrum H. Harris and Charles E. McClellan as Counselors. The visiting authorities indicated that plural marriages were no longer to be performed in Mexico as they had been since 1890. Because he had not been directly involved in these recent plural marriages and was living in monogamy, Junius was a good choice to implement that policy.

As Stake President, Junius traveled to Mexico City to review the missionary work there and at least twice attended general conference in Salt Lake City. He also traveled to Chihuahua City where he talked with the President of Mexico, Porfirio Diaz, who exhibited considerable interest in and affection for the Mormon colonists. The authoritarian government under Diaz and the work of the Mormon colonists were complementary. The government provided the climate in which the Church members could live in relative security with little interference. The colonists contributed to political and social stability and grew outstanding agricultural products, both qualities that Diaz wanted demonstrated to the native Mexicans.

Routine church business was also handled. His correspondence notes action on a possible Branch of the Church near Chihuahua City, operation of the Church auxiliaries with a Stake activity calendar for the four months through August of 1912, concern in one Ward over lagging tithing payments and pride of another Ward over anticipated benefits from a newly completed reservoir. That the Revolution was intruding upon Church work is indicated by the inability of President Romney to obtain signatures of all Ward Bishops on a document, and instructions to avoid purchasing grain from native Mexicans since the soldiers might need it.

Although the tempo of the Revolution demanded increasingly more attention, Junius still pursued his business interests in a way that indicated he intended to stay indefinitely in Mexico. He was involved in agreements to buy and sell land, a proposal to build a fruit cannery in Colonia Juarez, and the purchase of some 715 fruit trees to be planted on his land.

One of the first direct confrontations between the Revolutionaries and Mormons came in February, 1912, with a demand by Enrique Portillo for weapons. Portillo was a local leader of rebels under Pascual Orozco who by that time was opposing Madero. In company with Joseph C. Bentley and Guy C. Wilson, Junius told Portillo that the only way he would get Mormon guns was with smoke coming out of the barrels. After Junius reported this incident to the First Presidency in Salt Lake City, he received a letter from them which he considered very important. The First Presidency approved the action taken, but said that a different set of circumstances might call for a different response. They advised that the foremost concern should be the safety of members of the Church. A letter from Anthony W. Ivins at this time promised no loss of lives if the Saints were faithful. Some, not including Junius, interpreted this to mean that the colonists could always safely remain in Mexico.

Besides the admonition to care for the safety of the colonists, the policy of neutrality urged on the Saints was important to Junius. This policy was directed to all U. S. citizens from authorities in Washington, D.C. Moreover, the General Authorities advocated neutrality for Church members in Mexico. Regardless of personal feelings, Junius and other leaders attempted to be neutral. This was not an easy policy to follow since soldiers from both sides often forcibly requisitioned horses and other supplies. During the early stages of the Revolution, the soldiers were urged to respect neutrality.

While attempting to remain neutral, the colonists recognized a need to obtain weapons equal in quality to those possessed by the warring factions around them. Accordingly, the Stake leaders attempted unsuccessfully to import high powered rifles in December of 1911. Then in April, 1912, after the U.S. embargo was proclaimed, rifles were smuggled in and distributed to the various colonies from Junius’s home in Colonia Juarez.

After initial success against the government, Orozco was defeated in several battles in May, 1912, and retreated northward toward the colonies. At the same time, Mexicans responded to the killing of a Mexican, surprised during a robbery in Colonia Diaz, by killing James Harvey, a colonist. President Romney in company with several Mexican officials from Casas Grandes rode in a buggy to Colonia Diaz and defused the threatening situation. This experience further impressed Junius with the explosive conditions in which they found themselves and the danger of resorting to an armed defense. As a result, he reaffirmed his belief in the policy of neutrality and the necessity of the Mormons getting through the conflict with a minimal loss of life.

Junius wrote to the First Presidency requesting instruction on what to do and asking that Anthony W. Ivins be sent to the colonies to counsel with them. The First Presidency told Junius to do what he thought best after counseling with other Church leaders in the Stake. Elder Ivins traveled to the colonies and returned to El Paso where he remained throughout the Exodus.

After being defeated by federal forces in early July, 1912, the Orozco rebels moved to El Paso where they made their headquarters. This was usually a place where Revolutionaries could be resupplied with arms and ammunition, but because of the U. S. embargo, Orozco was unable to rebuild his army. So the rebels turned to the Mormon colonists who, they believed, had weapons they could obtain.

General Salazar, a local rebel leader, called Junius to his headquarters in Casas Grandes and there demanded a list of the colonists’ guns. After consultation with the leaders in Colonia Juarez and Colonia Dublan, Junius requested the information from each colony.

Faced with this increased pressure, representatives from throughout the colonies met with the Stake Presidency to decide how to proceed. The group decided to continue to pursue a policy of neutrality and to act unitedly under the direction of the Stake Presidency.

On July 13, 1912, when news reached Colonia Juarez that rebels in Colonia Diaz were demanding guns from the colonists, a meeting of eleven local men and two members of the Stake Presidency was convened at Junius’s home. The group sent messengers to Colonia Diaz with letters previously issued by rebel leaders urging respect for the neutrality of the Mormons. Junius Romney and Hyrum Harris of the Stake Presidency were instructed to confer with General Salazar to persuade him to call off the rebels. Junius prepared a letter to General Orozco in EI Paso which he sent with Ed Richardson.

That same night Junius and Hyrum Harris rode to Casas Grandes where they located General Salazar. Having prevailed upon a guard to awake the general, Romney described the crisis. Salazar lashed out at the rebel leader in Colonia Diaz, saying that he should not have made that demand, todavia no (not yet). Junius reports that those last two words caused a chill to run up his back, since it seemed to be the general’s intention to sometime require weapons of the colonists. Such a demand, Junius foresaw, would perpetrate a crisis. Romney and Harris received an order from Salazar which they took to Colonia Dublan for delivery to Colonia Diaz.

The next day, Junius traveled by train to El Paso to confer with Elder Ivins. On the way he had a conversation with General Salazar who said he intended to do something to force the U.S. to intervene militarily in the Revolution. In El Paso, Elder Ivins seemed to think that Junius was overly concerned. Still, they jointly sent a telegram to the First Presidency requesting instructions. The reply said that “the course to be pursued by our people in Mexico must be determined by yourself, Romney and the leading men of the Juarez Stake.” Romney was looking for specific instructions, but received none. He later reflected that if the Lord intended to have his people removed from Mexico, it was better that he, rather than Elder Ivins who had put his life into building the colonies, should lead that evacuation. Although Ivins visited the colonies for several days during the next two weeks, he gave no more specific instructions on what to do.

Orson P. Brown, the colonists’ representative in El Paso, wrote Junius that the State Department had indicated that the Mormons could not expect U.S. governmental support in the event they defended themselves. Brown predicted that the colonists would have to leave their homes.

Fearing the worst, Junius wrote a letter on July 24, advising the mountain colonies to be prepared to leave on a moment’s notice, should the need arise.

Two days later, Junius, in company with four other colonists, traveled to Casas Grandes for a meeting with General Salazar. The general and his aid, Demetrio Ponce, a Mexican who lived among the Mormons, ordered Junius Romney and Henry E. Bowman to deliver Mormon owned guns and ammunition to the rebels. Junius refused to do so and was supported in his decision by Bowman. Bowman’s support was further evidence to Junius that the Lord was directing things since such support was essential to the later evacuation, and the older man had previously been somewhat critical of the young Stake President. Salazar then directed some soldiers to accompany the Mormons to Colonia Dublan where they were ordered to collect weapons, by force if necessary.

In Dublan, Junius Romney conferred with Bishop Thurber and other men. They decided that some compliance was required, so instructions were sent for colonists to bring in their poorest weapons. The rebels were temporarily pacified when these deliveries were made at the schoolhouse.

In the same meeting, it was decided to send the Mormon women and children to EI Paso for their safety. Henry Bowman left at once for Texas to arrange for their arrival and a few colonists departed with him that very day. Junius composed a letter to Colonia Diaz describing what had occurred and directing the colonists in that community to follow the same procedure for evacuation.

That same evening, Romney returned to Colonia Juarez where he joined a meeting of the men already in progress. Bishop Joseph C. Bentley and others were not in favor of anyone leaving the colonies, but after some discussion and a recommendation from President Romney that they evacuate their women and children, he and the others agreed to comply and to urge others to do the same. Those at the meeting also agreed to relinquish their poorest weapons to the rebels.

On Sunday, July 28, some weapons and ammunition from the Juarez colonists were delivered at the bandstand to the rebels. Junius sent messages to the mountain colonies of Colonia Pacheco, Garcia, and Chuhuichupa advising them to be prepared to give up some of their weapons and to send their women and children to EI Paso. He told his wife, Gertrude, that the Bishop was in charge of the evacuation and would help them leave. He bid his family farewell and departed to Casas Grandes to meet with General Salazar.

The actions on July 27 and 28 left the colonies occupied only by adult men. Each town was furnished with a small contingent of rebel soldiers who were responsible for keeping the peace and protecting the colonists who had presumably relinquished their weapons. During the next few days of relative calm, Junius wrote to the various colonies to apprise them of the situation and to advise them to act moderately, with the highest priority being given to safeguarding the lives of the men.

The situation took a turn for the worse when other rebel soldiers began moving through the colonies after having been defeated in a battle with the federals in Sonora on July 31. Uncertain about the intentions of these new arrivals, Junius and other men met in the store on August 2 and decided to call a general meeting for that night. Junius and some others understood that the night meeting was to decide on a course of action. However, as men were notified of the meeting, some understood that they were to leave town that night and go into the mountains.

That night, as Junius started toward the designated meeting place north of town, he was told that some men had already gone into the mountains. He was convinced that the rebels in town would conclude that those who left were on their way to join the federals and any men who remained would be in serious danger. Junius was unable to consult with other leaders as he had previously done, but what he needed to do seemed clear to him. His decision was to have all the men remaining in the colonies congregate at the Stairs, a previously designated site in the mountains farther up the Piedras Verdes River. Then he sat under a lantern in the bottom of the Macdonald Springs Canyon and prepared letters for Colonia Dublan and the mountain colonies, instructing the men to meet at once at the Stairs.

On the other side of the river, a significant number of the Juarez men had met at the designated site north of town, but when they did not find President Romney or the others there, they returned to their homes. When Junius discovered this later in the morning of August 3, he attempted to countermand his instructions to Dublan, but the men had already left. Later, Junius, his brother Park, and Samuel B. McClellan encountered these Dublan men and accompanied them to the Stairs.

The men who remained in Juarez, including Bishop Bentley, initially decided to go to the Stairs, but when the rebels were frightened away by the news of approaching federals, they wrote to those in the mountains expecting that they would return to the colonies. Later, when the men in town received pointed instructions from President Romney that they should go to the Stairs, Bishop Bentley and others complied.

After a preliminary meeting of the Church leaders at the Stairs, a mass meeting of all the men was held on August 5. At that time, those who had most recently arrived from Colonia Juarez urged the men to return to their homes. A majority of those there, including President Junius Romney, favored going to the United States. Junius had several reasons for his decision. He had witnessed the strong anti-American feeling among the Mexicans. He recognized the danger of international repercussions if American citizens were killed in Mexico. He wanted the smuggled guns they were carrying to reach the U.S. A vote to leave was made unanimous. The movement was made under the military leadership of Albert D. Thurber and the men crossed into New Mexico on August 9, 1912.

The fact that the colonists were out of Mexico did not release Junius as Stake President. He continued such functions as issuing recommends, counseling Ward leaders, and gathering information to help him decide what future action he would suggest. He interviewed the colonists themselves, talked with generals of the federal army, and took a three week trip back into Mexico.

The overall supervision of the refugees came under the control of a committee which included various colonists, Junius Romney, Anthony W. Ivins, and other Church representatives. This committee first concerned itself with the evacuation of the colonists in Sonora. Quite independently of the Chihuahua colonists, they evacuated their homes and were in the U.S. by the end of August.

The committee also considered whether the colonies should be reoccupied. Some returned soon after they left, mostly to recover cattle and other property. It was eventually decided that the colonists should be released from any Church obligation to live in Mexico, so that each family could make its own decision. Junius and his family decided not to return.

Gertrude and their four children had initially stayed in a Lumberyard in EI Paso with many others, but they soon moved to a single-room apartment. In the winter of 1912, they moved to Los Angeles with one of Junius’s brothers.

Junius traveled to Salt Lake City where he reported his stewardship to a meeting of the First Presidency and Quorum of Twelve. He reports that he “assured President Smith that I had lived up to the best light that I had been able to receive and consequently if the move was not right I disavowed any responsibility inasmuch as I had lived up to the best inspiration I could get and had fearlessly discharged my duty as I saw it in every trying situation which had arisen.” After hearing this report as well as those of other men and assessing other information they possessed, the General Authorities decided to release Junius as Stake President and to dissolve the Juarez Stake.

While in Salt Lake City, Junius was convinced by Lorenzo Stohl of the Beneficial Life Insurance Company that he ought to try selling life insurance. Junius was dubious about this proposal, but while he traveled on the train back to Mexico, he diligently studied the material he was furnished. Shortly after arriving in El Paso, he was confronted by his brother, Orin, and D. B. Farnsworth, who were looking for a particular Beneficial agent. Junius Romney identified himself as an agent and immediately embarked on a career in which he would be a marked success. During his first year of this work he saw his family only twice, a condition he deplored, but he was determined to succeed. He learned of a contest with a $300 prize for which he would have to sell $60,000 in insurance before the end of 1912. When he won, Junius endorsed the check directly to a creditor to whom he owed money for the purchase of land in Mexico. In the next year, he won prizes totaling $550, which he likewise applied on his debts. Not only did his work help him support his family, but it also resulted in his being given the job of superintendent of agents for Beneficial Life, a position he held for ten years.

By the end of 1913, Junius was able to move his family from Los Angeles to a rented home in Salt Lake City, and six years later, to a home they purchased on Douglas Street on the east side of Salt Lake City. To the four children they brought with them out of Mexico were later added two sons, Eldon and Paul.

While most of Junius’s time during these years after the Exodus was spent in selling insurance, he continued to be concerned with those he knew in Mexico. One project in which he took considerable pride was a resettlement project along the Gila River in Arizona. With Ed Lunt, he borrowed money from Beneficial Life to buy land which was divided into twenty and forty acre parcels and sold with little or no down payment to families from the colonies.

In order to spend more time with his family, Junius left Beneficial Life. Following work in several sales ventures and a few years handling real estate for Zion’s Savings Bank, he became manager of State Building and Loan Association in 1927. He continued in that position until 1957 when his age and ill health compelled retirement. Under his management, the company had expanded to Hawaii and became a leading financial institution in Utah. As part of this work, he sold sufficient insurance to be a member of the Kansas City Life Million Dollar Roundtable three times. He was also involved in various other business enterprises, often in real estate in partnership with others.

He continued to be a faithful Church member throughout his life. He served in various Ward and Stake positions, including the Stake High Council, and as a temple worker in his later years. In later years he suffered from a variety of ailments, perhaps the most serious of which was the loss of his sight. Because he was a man of action, this was especially difficult for him. He was also much troubled by the loss of his wife who served as his companion for sixty-five years in mortality.

He was always very thoughtful of friends and neighbors, as well as his family. As he grew older he expanded his philanthropy. Probably his most noted gift was a rather expensive machine to be used in open heart surgery at the Primary Children’s Hospital.

He kept his sense of humor. For his ninetieth birthday celebration, he appeared in a rather nice hair piece. His family cautiously complimented him on his youthful appearance until the joke became apparent. At that time no one laughed more heartily than Junius.

As his health failed, he began in the late 1950s to talk and write more about the colonies. He dictated and wrote several separate reminiscences about people and events and he gave some talks centering on the Exodus from Mexico to Church groups in the Salt Lake City area. Finally, in 1957, he returned to the colonies. He was interested in reliving that part of his life, but more important to him was explaining it to others, which he did by distributing copies of one of his talks.

When he died in 1971 at ninety-three years of age, he left a significant heritage. His impact on the Mormon colonies was monumental. In business he was a personal success and a builder. In the Church he was a faithful member and significant leader. Among many he was a friend and benefactor.

To his six children, thirty grandchildren, and forty-four great-grandchildren alive at his death, he was a living symbol of much that is good about life.

Joseph Romney, grandson

Stalwarts South of the Border, Nelle Spilsbury Hatch

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Robert Chestnut Beecroft

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ROBERT CHESTNUT BEECROFT

(1873-1958)

Robert Chestnut Beecroft was born in Holden, Millard County, Utah, July 15, 1873. He was the son of John Hurst and Ellen Chestnut Beecroft.

December 24, 1889 he arrived with his parents in Colonia Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico. There he remained with his uncle, Henry Chestnut, who was night-watchman at the Henry Eyring store, until March 1890, when he moved on to Colonia Pacheco.

In Pacheco, he went to work at a sawmill, first for Al Farnsworth and later for John Campbell. He dearly loved the people of Pacheco. The memory of friendships with such men as John E. and Walter H. Steiner and William and David P. Black were cherished memories all of his life.

There in Pacheco Robert Chestnut Beecroft met Lilly Marinda Rowley. They were married April 14, 1894. To them were born a boy, Nello Robert, August 11, 1896 and a girl, Emma, January 4, 1898.

Besides working at sawmills, “Rob” did freighting.

In March 1898 he moved his family to Colonia Oaxaca, Sonora, Mexico. There, two girls were born to them, Lilly Mae, September 30, 1899, and Ellen, July 27, 1902.

Rob carried on as a freighter, hauling ore from the El Tigre mine, near Colonia Oaxaca to Nuevo Casas Grandes, Chihuahua, Mexico. The road he traveled over was truly a pioneer road. The treacherous Bavispe River had to be crossed. The Pulpit Canyon road was next to impassable. It was solid rock for miles and in places it was like a staircase.

At one point called “The Squeeze” it was so narrow that a wagon could barely pass through. There were drops from ledge to ledge to ledge; the wagon tongue would knock the horses from side to side, even knocking them down at times. His own words tell it thus:

I made my living freighting, driving six to eight horses on one line and three wagons. The mountain roads were so rough that could only take one wagon at a time, taking it to the top of the mountain, leaving it, and going back after the next. After getting the last wagon to the top, I would put the ore all in one wagon. The trip was then made the rest of the way to Nuevo Casas Grandes. The ore was then loaded on the train and taken to El Paso, Texas to the smelters.

In Colonia Oaxaca, Rob built a brick house for his family. Later a flood came down the Bavispe River, washed sixteen houses away and took the roof of his new brick home.

His wife Lilly died in 1904, so he moved back to Pacheco with his young children. His brother John took Nello and Emma to Colonia Garcia. Mae went to live with Lilly’s sister, Ozella Rowley. Ellen went to another sister of Lilly’s, Orissa Rowley, while Rob continued freighting.

There in Pacheco he met and married Nancy Erina Buchanan, October 18, 1905. At this time, Robert had acquired some farm land and farmed in season. He also worked on adjoining sawmills, being fireman and engineer.

December 3, 1906 they had a son born, William Elvin.

Rob said:

In 1908 I was called to go on a two year mission in Mexico. I took my wife and baby with me to Salt Lake City. There we were sealed. Then we took the train back to El Paso. We had to walk across the bridge crossing the Rio Grande River which separates the USA and Mexico. Edna and the baby took a train for the colonies which was the way back home for them, while I took another train for Mexico City and my mission, where I labored for a little over two years. I arrived back home Christmas Eve 1910. While on my mission in Mexico State I was living at Ozumba. I presided over eight different branches. Rey L. Pratt was President over the Mexican Mission, with Will Jones as first counselor and myself as second counselor.

While laboring there I was fined for not paying taxes on my wages. We were in court two days. The judge said either my church paid me or the people over whom I presided paid me. I told him that neither of them did, but that I paid my own way. I appealed to Chalco, and the officers at Chalco appealed to the state capitol. But I never did hear from them again.

His mission being ended, he took a train for home, arriving at the nearest railroad station in Pearson, Chihuahua, near Colonia Juarez where his wife Edna awaited him. His son Nello met him at Pearson with horses. “Horseback” they returned to Pacheco arriving Christmas Eve, 1910. For the first time he saw his daughter Marva, who was born four months after he left for his mission. She was born February 17, 1909.

Again in Rob’s own words:

Back to work again, sawmilling. We moved to Cumbre sawmill working for Lester Farnsworth and John Whetten. They had acontract to build a bridge which was the highest bridge in America,being 800 feet high, and took one million feet of timber. At Cumbre was a tunnel that was three-quarters of a mile long which the train went through.

October 5, 1911 a baby boy was born to us, Carl J.

In 1912, because of the Mexican Revolution, we were told to leave Mexico. In August of that year we put our women and children on the train and sent them to El Paso. All men over fifty years of age, and boys under sixteen years had to go with the women. All boys over sixteen had to stay with the men. So my son Nello stayed with me, as he had just turned sixteen August 11.

Early the next morning, the train left Pearson for El Paso, Texas, USA, while we men and boys headed back to the mountains and our homes and our crops.

I had to stay to a meeting in Colonia Juarez, at President Bentley’s place, and before I got back to my home at Pacheco, which was thirty-five miles from Colonia Juarez, our Bishop met me and sent me through the hills, away from the road to Colonia Garcia as a runner, to tell the Garcia men to meet with the Pacheco men at a certain place in the mountains. Then the valley men were to meet us and all head for the USA together. In our travel overland, Bishop A.D. Thurber was chosen captain. He chose Lester B. Farnsworth as first assistant and Robert C. Beecroft as second assistant of the company, which consisted of 240 men.

The night we left our homes at Pacheco the Mexicans set fire to the town, burning all the lumber houses.

Our daughter Valoise was born August 6, 1915 at St. Johns, Arizona.

I went back to Mexico because our land and everything we owned was there. In our company going back was myself and family, brother John and family, Frank 0’Donnal and family, John and Bert Whetten and their families.

We landed at Colonia Dublan. I was the night watchman at the Farnsworth and Romney store for about one year. I then hired a 200 acre farm. Our crops were alfalfa, wheat, and beans. I farmed there for a number of years.

We had another daughter Ethel born January 22, 1922 in Colonia Garcia.

While working with Lester B. Farnsworth in 1922 at Garcia he acquired 140 head of cattle. The men of the town of Garcia together purchased the Jacobson cattle, with the UT brand. These cattle were located on the ranch near the Dublan Lakes. They were paid for with lumber from the Garcia mill. Later he moved these cattle to the North Valley Ranch near Chuhuichupa, where he also moved his family. There he also farmed, raising corn, oats and potatoes.

February 18, 1925 a daughter, Maurene, was born in Chuhuichupa.

In the autumn of 1926, because of illness of his daugher Ethel, he and Edna with their family moved to Douglas, Arizona to give medical care to
Ethel.

Douglas was born while there, February 18, 1927.

In 1928, Rob sold his cattle that he had on the North Valley Ranch. He invested the money with the Farnsworth and Romney Mercantile Company. They owned a store in Sabinal, a rich silver mine on the Corralitos Ranch. They sent Robert there to run the store. His family was in Colonia Juarez where Elvin, Marva and Carl were enrolled in the Juarez Stake Academy.

Later Rob was transferred to the store in Juarez, owned by the same Mercantile Company.

In 1931 he sold his equity in the Mercantile business for cattle. He moved his cattle and his family back to Chuhuichupa.

In 1932 he rented his cattle out and moved to Mesa, Arizona. Later he sold his cattle and bought a home near the Arizona Temple in Mesa.

Robert passed away October 2, 1958 at his home, 240 Wood Lane, Mesa, Arizona.

Ellen Beecroft Farnsworth, daughter

Stalwarts South of the Border,

Nelle Spilsbury Hatch pg 27

Hyrum Jerome Judd

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Hyrum Jerome Judd

1847-1898

Hyrum Jerome Judd was born February 7, 1847, at Kanesville, Hancock County, Iowa, a few months before his father was released from military duty with the Mormon Battalion.

His father, Hyrum Judd orphaned at the age of 16, went to work for Lucious H. Fuller in Warsaw, Illinois, where he met and married Lisania Fuller, in 1844. Hyrum Jerome was two years old when he crossed the plains with his parents and baby sister, arriving in Salt Lake city in the fall of 1849. They settled in Farmington, Utah, until 1857, when his father was called to help settle southern Utah at Santa Clara, Washington County.

Here he lived his boyhood days in a nice little home his father built and he helped get the young orchard planted and growing nicely, except for the need of more water. A new dam was built on the Virgin River with a canal carrying water to the new townsite. This project was finished on Christmas Eve, of 1861. The day the ditch was finished the rain began to fall and continued for more than a month; clothing and bedding couldn’t get dried. The dugouts and other shelter gave poor protection, even with all the pots and pans employed to catch the dripping water. Food molded, fires were hard to keep burning and harder to start if they went out. It was a month of misery and suffering for all. Then came the big flood, in the dark of night in January, 1862. They were forced to flee to higher ground with what belongings they could take with them, while their home and land were washed away.

The family then moved to Meadow Valley and were busily engaged in the dairy business, when his father received another call to help settle the community of Eagle Valley, Nevada, in 1865. Hyrum Jerome Judd married Sharon Boyce, daughter of Benjamin and Susanna Content Boyce, April 28, 1866 in the Salt Lake Temple (Note Salt Lake temple wasn’t finished until 1893). While living there, five, children were born to them: John Jerome in 1866; Susan Content in 1871; Lisania in 1872, Hyrum 1870; and Arza Hugh who died in infancy, in 1874. During this time Jerome worked on the Salt Lake Temple. They moved to Panguitch, Utah where his father had settled. Here Benjamin Boyce was born in 1876. Jerome helped his father fence land near Lake Panguitch, where fishing was good. Ira Leroy was born in 1877 in Salt Lake City.

Hyrum Jerome Judd followed his father into northern Arizona in 1877 in company with his sister Jane and her husband Joe Knight, with all of their household goods and livestock, traveling slowly in order to find the best route for water and grass. His father left a letter for him in a split stick at Black Falls. They made a fine crossing of the Colorado River and up over Lee’s Backbone, the worst piece of road a wagon was ever taken over. They arrived at Sunset, Arizona, in early 1878, the most desolate place he had ever seen. He and his father joined the United Order and helped establish Sunset, Brigham City and Joseph City, all three camps practicing the United Order.

Joe Knight decided against joining and went across the river with the Kartchner’s and other families to a little community called Obed. Joe became ill and Jerome brought him into Sunset for better care, but he died where she joined the Order and later married Israel Call. The Judd’s, along with the families of William C. McClellan, Levi Savage, James McNeil, Joe James, Israel Call, Hubert Burkle, Freehoff Neilson and Samuel Garnes stayed with the Order, while others came and went. Jerome and Hubert Burkle had charge of the range cattle and horses of the Order, and the Judd family made all the cheese at Mormon Lake near Flagstaff. His father was Presiding Elder there. Wilford Woodruff Judd was born to them at Sunset 1880.

There Hyrum Jerome Judd took a second wife, who was Sarah Garn. They were married in the St. George Temple on October 18, 1880. Their first child, Paralee America was born October 6, 1881 at Sunset. The United Order disbanded in 1882 and he moved to several different places in Arizona and New Mexico, taking some land in Smithsville (Pima) where Elizabeth was born to Susan in 1883. Lois Dianna and Ann were also born to Susan at Ramah, New Mexico in 1884 and 1886. Lois Dianna lived only a few months. Mary Aliza (Mae) was born in 1886 to Sarah at Ramah.

Jerome moved his families to Mexico in 1887, settling in Colonia Juarez. There he lived with his families for several years, making a living for their support by freighting and serving as cook on long cattle drives. They made several drives to Fort Apache, Arizona. Susan’s last child, Heleman, was born in Colonia Juarez in 1890. To Sarah were born Don Carlos on October 7, 1887, Samuel Garn on October 8, 1890 in Colonia Juarez, and Lucinda Jane (Jenny) October 26, 1892.

Colonia Chuhuichupa was settled in 1894 and Jerome moved his families there where he engaged in farming and cattle raising. Edgar Riley was born to Sarah in Chuhuichupa on January 13, 1898. Jerome’s health was not good, so he went back to Colonia Juarez where he could get better medical care. Sarah spent part of her time taking care of him there. He received his Patriarchal Blessing from William R.R. Stowell on August 12, 1898 and died of cancer of the throat August 30, at the age of 51 years. He was laid to rest in the east cemetery at Colonia Juarez beside his father who had preceded him in death by two years. He was survived by two wives and 15 children.

Compiled by Earnestine Hatch from material furnished by Elva Judd Stevens, and a family history written from memory by Daniel Judd, son of Hyrum Judd and brother of Hyrum Jerome Judd.

Stalwarts South of the Border, Nelle Spilsbury Hatch, page 380

John Edward McNeil

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John Edward McNeil

1848-1915

John Edward McNeil was born December 18, 1848, in Douglas, Isle of Man, England. He was the son of John Corlette and Margaret Cavendish. They were married October 10, 1847. They belonged to the Church of England. They also attended other religious groups, especially the Methodists, but none of these seemed to satisfy their spiritual hunger. Finally John investigated the Latter-day Saint Church. He was thrilled and satisfied at last. He took Margaret to hear their teachings. After some time she too felt it was right but hesitated to be baptized. About this time, Margaret, who was always frail and often unable to do her work, became ill and had to be taken to her mother’s home. It was feared she would not recover. One day the Mormon Elders came and gave her a special blessing. The pain left and she was restored to health. To her, this was a testimony of the truth of the Latter-day Saint Church. She was baptized April 4, 1851. A month later, May 6, John was baptized and on the ninth of May he was confirmed. He was ordained a Priest June 8, 1851.

This Latter-day Saint family living in the Isle of Man now had a strong desire to come to America. They wanted to make their home with the Saints in Utah. IN January of 1852 John Corlette, his wife Margaret and son John Edward with two brothers, Richard and William, boarded a ship for Liverpool, England. They later set sail for America, landing in New Orleans. They were transferred to another boat, sailing up the Mississippi River to St. Louis, Missouri. The family arrived there in May 1852 and soon set up shop. Here, on June 27, 1854, Margaret passed away, a victim of the dread disease cholera. John Corlette later met and married Mary Jane Quinn in September of 1854. Little John Edward had a mother again, a very kind and good one.

The McNeil family now bent every effort to prepare to move across the great western plains to Utah. They were unable to get everything ready for the trip with the immigrant train and this was a great disappointment, but they were not afraid to go alone. Finally the day arrived. With a wagon, two yoke of oxen, two heifers and a horse, John Corlette and his family started the journey. In addition to John Edward McNeil, there were three other sons: Thomas, William and Richard. The distance was 1,700 miles across uncharted desert land. There would be wild beasts, Indians, cold and heat, scarcity of food and drink, and many other problems, but there were happy to be on their way. After traveling a few days, they came to a fork in the road. Not knowing which road to take, they prayed to be guided. Their choice was unanimous and right. Once they saw in the distance what seemed to be a large band of Indians approaching. The father said, “Do not be afraid, we must feed them; but pray as you have never prayed before.” They then took soda crackers from their supplies and passed then to each Indian. It took two dishpans full to go around. The chief took some of his braves aside and they whispered together. The McNeils were so relieved when he returned and gave orders for all to ride on. I’ve always wondered if it wasn’t thirst, after eating the salty crackers that helped make the decision.

Tired and weary after four months of traveling, they arrived and camped near Fort Douglas, Utah, August 1, 1859. After a few days they moved to Woods Crossing where they lived in a log cabin belonging to Daniel Woods. The boys and their father helped Mr. Woods harvest his crops that autumn. Later the family moved to Bountiful where John Corlette started a small store. In addition to this they had a shoe business. They manufactured and repaired shoes. He also bought land and built a home, for three more sons had come to bless their family.

Between the time of his arrival in Utah in August 1859 and March 1874 when John Edward was married, we have no written record. But we do know that he had some formal education in medicine. His father, John Corlette, decided he should have this after his son filled their home and barn with sick or injured birds and animals. They both loved medicine.

The father became known as “Doctor McNeil” and his son as “Doctor John.” They worked together helping the sick and needy. It has been said that no man was ever turned away from the McNeil home and had plenty to do the year around. We know what his father did so we can be assured that John Edward McNeil helped. Their skills were so much the same. They loved helping the sick, carpentering, raising cattle and farming.

They were industrious people. They kept beautiful flowers growing in the yard. They did truck gardening and had a find orchard and vineyard. They sold produce in Salt Lake City. They hauled logs of the First Ward Chapel in Bountiful, in addition to giving time to hauling material for the Salt Lake Temple, which was at that time under construction.

Of course there was always livestock to care for—cows, horses, pigs and chickens. John Edward McNeil studied medical books and learned much about music and musical instruments. He could play drums, various kinds of horns, the violin (or fiddle, as it was called), also the harmonica. In later life he trained and led Ward choirs.

In 1871, a widow, Lavinia Duffield Snyder, with her two daughters, Margaret Conrad, age 32, and Maria Todd, age 16, came to Salt Lake City by way of train. Lavinia heard Joseph Smith speak while on a tour through Pennsylvania and she was very interested. Evidently her husband, George Snyder, was not. However he was much older than she. He died and left her a very young widow. Lavinia left her home and farm in Philadelphia to her son, and wet west. Lavinia was the daughter of Jesse Duffield and Mary Knowles. She was born February 17, 1816 in Philadelphia. Her parents and grandparents were wealthy landowners and business people. She and her children therefore knew nothing about pioneering or western life. Although they missed the easy life in the East, they were happy in Salt Lake City, and after becoming acquainted with the Mormon Church and its people they were baptized.

At age 25 John Edward McNeil married Margaret Conrad on March 16, 1874. She was born October 5, 1850 and was 23 years old. Margaret had a very good education for those early days, but she was a delicate girl. Because a doctor advised John Edward to take her south to a warmer climate, they decided to move to Arizona. Seven years passed, however, before they were able to go. In the summer of 1881 they were ready for the move so they sent word to his father they were coming. John Corlette, already living in Arizona, went to Kanab, Utah to accompany them to Show Low. Winters in this locale proved too sever for one with delicate health. Consequently, Margaret was told by an Apache doctor that she had consumption and dropsy. Many of the Saints were currently moving to Mexico because of polygamy. John Edward McNeil decided to join them, for it would be a warmer climate there.

John Edward and Margaret traveled in a company with others. According to a record of Joseph Samuel Cardon, they left in early February, 1885. My mother was told me of many experiences she had on the trip. At night she and Joseph Cardon’s oldest daughter, Minnie, could see each other around their family campfire, but during all that trip these little nine-year-old girls could never get together to visit or play. They were both the oldest ones in their families and there was always so much for the children to do.

In March, according to this same record, they arrived on the Casas Grandes River, near the Mexican town of La Ascension. They remained in camp a few weeks while making arrangements to pass the custom house. Then the camp was divided by Apostle George Teasdale. Some stayed to build up Colonia Diaz, but the McNeils went on to the open country near Casas Grandes. The Latter-day Saint Church had, in the meantime, bought large parcels or tracts of land from the Mexican Government. The place to which John Edward McNeil’s family went was later named Colonia Juarez. This was in honor of Benito Juarez, a great Mexican General and President. Located on the Piedras Verdes River, the climate was mild and the valley wide. One problem was scarcity of water, but with the Sierra Madre Mountains near, surely dams could be built to hold the water back for irrigation in the growing season. Their hopes were high. Streets were laid out, trees planted and a meeting house built. It was a crude building with split logs for benches, but it was a good start.

The homes were dugouts along the high banks of the river. Poles were set in front and across these three branches were laid, making shade for each one. This would all be replaced someday with nice brick homes, gardens and orchards. The settlers however began to hear rumors that they were on the wrong land. After some investigation, this was proven true. The land, after being surveyed, belonged to the San Diego Grant. They had to move. Their ground was about two miles on up the river in a long narrow canyon. This was a shock to all, of course, but there was not time to lose and so they moved. This disappointment proved a blessing they could not know at the time. The soil in the new location was just right for fruit growing. Warm days and cool breezes from the canyon at night helped to give fruit a good flavor.

These were some of the early experiences of the McNeils in Colonia Juarez. When they arrived, there were four children. The McNeils had lost one daughter, Lizzie Duffield, born October 11, 1878 in Bountiful, Utah. Margaret’s health did not improve greatly but they were happy in their new home in Mexico and were quite comfortable.

On March 29, 1886, Melissa Snyder was born. Margaret seemed to be improving, and was able to sit up. However, after helping her family sing a song, she slumped over and was gone. This sad event occurred on April 8, 1886, 10 days after the birth. Their grieving father wrote her mother in Philadelphia, telling all the family there the sad news. This letter was preserved and later returned to the family. In it he said he wished he could have gone with her, but he was glad to be able to stay and care for the children. In those days it was almost impossible to raise a child without breast feeding it. Melissa was given good care but she lived only a month. She died May 1, 1886. John Edward had now lost a wife and two children. He and the Relief Society sisters together cared for the motherless ones.

It was at this time that Rhoda Ann McClellan, about 14 years old, and her mother Alameda went to the McNeil home to see if there was anything they might do to help the family in their time of bereavement. As they walked, the ground seemed to be moving under their feet. They stopped and looked about them. It was an earthquake. They hurried on, anxious to visit and return home. At the McNeils everything was in confusion, with broken dishes on the floor and precious window glass shattered to bits. Otherwise the family was well and bearing its grief bravely. The tremors continued in to the late afternoon and evening. From the hills nearby, rocks, large and small, came rolling down. Trees burned along the forest line, lighting up the surrounding country as if for some special celebration. Many homes were cracked and some laid to the ground. In general, there was concern and excitement everywhere.

After Mother Nature quieted down, the people of little Colonia Juarez were overjoyed. There was a larger stream in the river, fissures the length of the Piedras Verdes had opened up. Now there was more water. This was a special blessing they had received.

On December 24, 1886, John Edward McNeil married Mary Emeline Johnson. This lovely girl was the daughter of Sixtus Ellis and Mary Stratton Johnson and was born November 15, 1870, in Virgin City, Utah. They were neighbors in Colonia Juarez. To this union five children were born. Mary Emeline was a devoted mother and stepmother to the first family of children. Two years after marrying Mary Emeline, John also married her younger sister, Luella Jane Johnson. To this union nine children were born.

From Colonia Juarez, John moved his two families to Colonia Chuhuichupa, also in the State of Chihuahua. Here Mary Emeline died, August 11, 1896, when her son Eloy was four weeks old. She left five children behind. These her sister Luella Jane (Aunt Ella as she was lovingly called) took to her heart and home, to raise as her own. She had four children but lost John Franklin soon after.

About 1900 the family left Chuhuichupa. It was such a lovely little mountain town, but cold in the winter and spring. Snow would sometimes pile up three feet deep. They moved to Colonia Oaxaca in the State of Sonora. There it was a milder climate and the family all enjoyed good health. Here they lied about ten years until, in 1905, a flood came down the river, washing out most of the homes.

On February 16, 1907, the McNeil family moved to Colonia Morelos, Sonora, where they were very happy, living in a brick home purchased from Bishop Orson P. Brown. Ed and Joseph had to leave school to help support the family. They found work at the El Tigre mines about 50 miles away. They weren’t able to come home often as horses provided the only mode of travel. The family owned a sheep ranch and also a cattle ranch in the mountains.

The Exodus in July 1912 forced all the Mormons to leave the colonies. The McNeil family moved to Douglas, Arizona, the closest American town to the border. As was true of all others at the time, they could take only a few clothes and a minimum of bedding. Everything else was left behind. At the time the weather was warm. It was in October, 1912 and all got along fine, although I’m sure living in tents in the winter was not comfortable. Douglas at this time was very small and the water supply was not sanitary. In the fall of 1913 there was a typhoid epidemic and give of the McNeil children became ill with the disease. The health authorities visited the family and tried to have all take to the hospital but John Edward McNeil wanted to keep them home. He finally let them take three children, but two of these died. They were Charles Leland, age ten, who died November 6, 1913 and Sixtus Earl, age 16, who passed away November 16, 1923.

John Edward McNeil and his family were also among the pioneers of Pomerene, Arizona. While living at Pomerene their grown son, Harlem Leon, was killed in the mines at Bisbee, Arizona, on November 16, 1923.

Always a carpenter and able to do cabinet work, John Edward McNeil enjoyed building nice homes, churches and places of business. He served as justice of the peace for a time while living in northern Arizona. Before leaving Douglas, he was asked by our government to serve as a scout in helping to hunt Pancho Villa. He directed the search several months in Sonora and nearby states.

John Edward McNeil was a sincere, humble man but also had a sense of humor. With Ed McClellan he helped extend many short programs with spontaneous wit. This he especially enjoyed in the early days of Colonia Juarez. His funny streaked helped him over many rough spots. Fortunately, several of his grandchildren today have been blessed with the same gift.

Early in 1915 he became so ill that Luella Jane, with two younger daughters, Edna and Ina took him back to Bountiful for special treatments in Salt Lake City. Here he passed away among his cousins and relatives on September 4, 1915 and was laid to rest in the Bountiful cemetery.

Mary Johnson Cardon, granddaughter

Nelle Spilsbury Hatch

Stalwarts South of the Border, page 455

James Christian Peterson

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James Christian Peterson

1858-1929

Mormonism was brought to the Nils Persson family in Soder Rorum, Sweden in about 1856 by the Mormon missionaries. Grandpa Persson first learned of this new religion but it was Grandma Persson, Maria Livisa Danielsson, Persson, who first accepted it and was baptized in 1858. The Persson home was a haven to the missionaries as Grandma and Grandpa were very hospitable and welcomed the missionaries.

The Persson children were all born in Soder Rorum with the exception of the eldest son, Olof, who was born in Farlov, Sweden. Austusta Persson the baby of the family, was born on February 29, 1864. She often told us of the missionaries coming to their home and how brother Erastus Snow would put his arm around her and put her on his knee, something a child would remember.

In 1863, the eldest son, Olof, went to Denmark and there was associated with the Mormon converts. Later, the whole Persson family moved to Denmark as the families of brother Nils Persson and Maria Lovisa Danilesson Persson were embittered over their joining this new religion. At the time Grandma Person was a soloist in the Swedish Luteran Church.

James Christian Peterson was born in Mygind, Denmark, January 26, 1858. He became acquainted with the Mormons and when 17 years of age was baptized on October 10, 1875. His parents did not join the Church at this time. He met Matilda Persson while in Denmark at the Mormon activities.

The Persson family immigrated to American and traveled to Salt Lake City, Utah from 1874 to 1876. James Christian Peterson and his mother emigrated in 1877. They came to Salt Lake City. James’ mother, Anne, was baptized February 2, 1886, in Utah.

In Denmark James learned the trade of fine shoe making and repairing of shoes. When young people learned a trade in the old country they were skilled. After arriving in Salt Lake City, he secured employment with ZCMI and Solomon Bros. Later, after his marriage to Matilda Persson in 1879 in the Endowment House, Salt Lake City, and after their first three children were born, they oved to Ephraim, Utah. There James opened a mercantile store.

Matilda and James Christian Peterson were an outstanding couple in church work and talents. Six of their eight children were born in Utah, John Henry and Florence Viola being born in Colonia Juarez.

Augusta Persson and James Christian Peterson were married in the Manti Temple on August 28, 1890. They, with several other couples, went to Colonia Juarez, Mexico, to establish their homes. Matilda Peterson and family were living in Ephraim at this time. James came for them in 1891 and they moved to Colonia Juarez with him.

James commenced his trade of shoe making and repairing of shoes when he arrived in Colonia Juarez. He was an expert in this trade and taught some of the local men the shoe making business. Later, after establishing himself and having built separate homes for his two families, he opened up a mercantile store on the main street in Colonia Juarez.

James was interested in getting ahead financially. He acquired timberland in Chuhuichupa. He was prospector by nature and he located several mining claims. He interested some people from England in the mines. They came and looked over the property. Due to the inaccessible roads and location of the mines, the English people declined the process of extracting the ore and cost of shipment to the States would be exorbitant. So the deal was not closed.

Grandma Persson or Peterson lived with the two families until her death in 1904. Nils Persson died in Salt Lake City, Utah on June 28, 1882. He was only in America six years. Grandpa and Grandma Persson were a cultured, refined and talented couple and loved their children and religion dearly. In Colonia Juarez, Matilda Peterson acted as midwife and brought many of the babies in Colonia Juarez into this world. Augusta Peterson, 10 years younger than her sister Matilda, had her own dressmaking shop in Salt Lake City before her marriage. She often spoke of the women in Colonia Juarez coming to her with material for a dress to be cut out. She said she nearly always wound up making the dress for them. Augusta was very artistic. Her home was always most attractive; she just had that touch. Both Matilda and Augusta were very good cooks.

James was called on a mission to Denmark. Later he was made Branch President. Being able to speak the language and knowing the country I am sure he converted many to the Gospel. He was a Christian gentleman. He had a very good disposition, loved to read, and spoke several languages fluently. Matilda and Augusta Peterson were both outstanding and had charming personalities and good dispositions.

Leah, a daughter of Augusta and James Christian Peterson, died in Colonia Juarez, July 4, 1906. Matilda and her family moved to Salt Lake City, Utah in 1907, and Augusta and family followed the next year. John Henry and Florence Viola and all of Augusta’s children were of school age. The

James sold some of his holdings, including the homes, but the timberland and mines were never sold. He never was paid in full for the homes, because of the problems caused by the Mexican Revolution.

Some of the Peterson children received university educations. Nearly all the grandchildren have graduated from college and the great-grandchildren are headed that way. They possess many talents, hold good positions, are well respected in the communities in which they live and most are active in Church.

Hilma Peterson, daughter

Stalwarts South of the Border, Nelle Spilsbury Hatch page 326

Alma Platte Spilsbury

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Alma Platte Spilsbury

(1850 – 1920)

Alma Platte Spilsbury parents, George and Fannie Smith Spilsbury, except in the Gospel in England in 1842.

As soon possible they were married, they emigrated to Nauvoo in order to see and, if possible, talk to the man who had seen God, who had talked with Jesus Christ, and who was visited by angels and ancient prophets. Seated in the unfinished temple and Nauvoo, they recognize the Prophet of once though they had never seen him or even a picture of him. “He was his bold a lion, yet meek as a lamb, and his eyes pierce to my very soul,” wrote George later in his journal. They mourned with the Saints when the prophet and his brother were martyred and were present in the Grove when “the mantle of the Prophet” fell upon Brigham Young.

They evacuated Nauvoo at the time of the Exodus, and moved to St. Louis, then to St. Joseph, Missouri, in order to earn money to buy wagons, teams, seed and other necessities for settling in a faraway land. During that time, four little girls were born to them, each in turn dying. Belmont, their fifth child and first son, was born August 5, 1850, on the banks of the Platte River somewhere in Nebraska. When he was eight days old, the wagon in which she was born and was riding overturned in the Platte River in the oxen in their haste to slake their burning thirst rushed into the river. The mother was rescued at once, but by the time Edward Hunter, whose company they were traveling, had found the baby lodged against the stump, he seemed lifeless. Detecting a flicker of life, Hunter asked for the privilege of blessing given him a name. “Name him Alma,” his father said anxiously, “for the Book of Mormon Prophet.” “And I’ll add Platte to it,” said Bishop Hunter, “to commemorate his ducking.”

The family arrived in Salt Lake City on October 3, 1850, where the first eight years of Alma’s childhood were spent. His father replied the trade of mason to keep his ever-growing family supplied with necessities. Alma was 18 years of age when his father settled in Toquerville, in southern Utah, having spent one summer in Springville when Johnston’s army entered Salt Lake City, three years in Draper, four years in Grafton and four years in Rockville. Being the oldest son, Alma stood guard when Indians menaced, went with parties in search of stolen property, and help build their homes and provide for the family. Schooling during that time was incidental and possible only when other matters were not pressing.

On June 22, 1869, he married Sarah Ann Higbee, when he was but 19 years of age. His first daughter, Fanny Ann, was born September 1, 1870. On December 11, 1879, Sarah Ann died at the birth of their fifth child. She was survived by three children: Fannie Ann, David Moroni, and John Summers (Alma Platte Jr., and Ella having previously passed away). Immediately following this bereavement, Alma accepted a call to the Northern States Mission, leaving the care of his children to his mother. He left in April 1880, but in the cold, damp climate of the Great Lakes area he developed a cough that soon turned serious, and in July he was released.

On October 6, 1880, he married Mary Jane Redd of New Harmony, Utah, a girl he met when he stayed overnight with the Redd family on his way from his mission. With her he began a new life for himself and his motherless children in the old Spilsbury home in Toquerville. Mary Jane’s Katie Pearl was born and Sarah Ann’s Johnny died while they lived there.

March 2, 1883, he married Margaret Jane Smith is Cedar City, Utah, who had been preconditioned for his proposal by seeing him in a dream and being told distinctly, “This is the men you are going to marry.” Because of persecutions assailing those who entered the world marriage, he was advised by Apostle Erastus Snow to marry her in the St. George Temple and move his family at once to Arizona. In preparation for the movie fitted himself with for wagons, five teams, some loose horses, a race horse and a cow and left for Arizona, arriving the first of May. They settled in Mesa, then a struggling hamlet of a dozen families. With his extra horse he bought 40 acres of land from Fred Mullins, and moved his two wives into the one room Adobe house already built, and set about improving the property. Mary Jane second baby girl, Sarah Ann, was born June 2, 1883, and nine months later, March 3, 1884, Janey’s first girl, Estella May, was born before another room was added to the one-room adobe.

Eluding the U.S. Marshals, who were soon on the trail, was the beginning of dangerous times for this family. Although Alma believed in “facing the music,” going underground was so distasteful to him, he accepted a call to explore northern Sonora in company with Heber J .Grant and party, headed by Brigham Young, Jr. They spent four months hunting land suitable for colonization.

On his return he was arrested and stood trial in federal court in Phoenix in the spring of 1885, and was among the first to plead guilty as a test case. Others before him had pled “not guilty,” and had been sentenced to three months in eastern penitentiaries plus a fine. The “guilty” plea was made in hopes it would lessen the penalty. Pleading guilty also seemed more honest Alma, so he disregarded the advice of his lawyer. The result was a six-month sentence in the state penitentiary at Yuma, Arizona.

His prison term began April 1885, and lasted until October of the same year. Mary Jane’s third child and first son, Lemuel Hardison, was but a month old. Making friends with his jailers and gaining special privileges that mitigated the daily rituals and scorching heat was characteristic of Alma’s tactics in a hostile situation.

Serving his penitentiary term gave no relief to the persecution and when the chance came to choose between giving up part of the family were going into exile, he chose the latter. Leaving Mary Jane to liquidate his business, he took Janey with Estella May and Ernest Moroni (George Phillip having died at age two) and went with a company of Saints to Mexico. Janye’s fourth child, Carmelita, was born in Dublan shortly after they arrived. They settled in Colonia Juarez, and their Mary Jane followed in November 1891, with her six children: Katie, Sarah, Lemuel, Nellie Keziah, Della Redd and Ruby Vilate. His oldest daughter, Fannie, had married Isaac Dana and remained in Mesa. He gave up valuable property for the sake of living peacefully with his family.

Life in Mexico was a series of living on ranches in the summer time and in Colonia Juarez ares for school in the winter. Eight years were spent in the Strawberry Valley 25 miles northwest of Colonia Juarez, where he raise corn and potatoes, made cheese for sale and cared for the T-five (Church) cattle on a profit-sharing basis. Four years were spent on the Palo Quemado Ranch it miles south of Colonia Juarez which he used as a base for his lumber hauling. Loads of lumber were delivered each week, and still he spent the night at home. In 1905, he moved his families to Chuhuichupa for three years the farm, dairy and raise cattle. The highlight of living in this secluded hamlet 90 miles southwest of Colonia Juarez was the visit of his aged and revered father, George Spilsbury, who weathered the hard trip in order to give his grandchildren a Patriarchal Blessing.

Inaccessibility to high school privileges for his growing family induced a move to the valleys, and he settled his families on fruit farms four miles up the river from Colonia Juarez. From here he moved them in to town and the first comfortable homes either had enjoyed. Hardly were they settled when the political upheaval scattered the Mormon colonists all parts of the southwestern United States, and forced temporary abandonment of these newly-acquired homes. In the general Exodus came, Alma, by permission, remained in town alone, thinking he could save property and be instrumental in easing strained relations by doing so. By using tactics learned in the Yuma penitentiary, he made friends by being friendly. As a consequence, he never was harmed. Within a month Mary Jane’s family joined him. Janey and her children stayed in United States.

He was strictly honest. He never treated in a trade nor took unfair advantage in a deal. He never told a lie except once to save a favorite horse from rebels. No word of contempt could aptly express his aversion to the fellow who would tell you one thing while thinking another. He was a stickler for fundamentals. If the Gospel is true, its teachings were a correct guide. Family prayer is as regular as the morning and evening meal. Alma thank the Lord for what he had, asked him for what he needed. Mothers and each of the children took their turns praying.

He was as honest with the Lord as with his fellow man. He had little to tie, but such as there was, was carefully calculated and scrupulously paid every 10^th load of hay, wood, or lumber was piled into the tithing yard. Attendance at Sacrament Meeting and the Sabbath Day was strictly observed. Saturday evening his teams were turned out. Sunday morning is liveliest team of mules was hitched to the light wagon, and into it was loaded all the family. The mules and rested until time to return from Sacrament Meeting. He was supposed to buggy rides, often indulged in on Sunday afternoons, because horses needed their rest, too.

He loved horses. Had life dealt him what he craves, he would have been a horse fancier. When he moved to Mexico, he was wealthy with blooded horses which were taken with him. They were the first to succumb to the rigors of a hard country. As one by one they died, he saw something as Hardy as himself to take their place, and found it in mules. It mattered not whether he drove one span or two or three, or had them hitched to one wagon were to; his teams made his living.

No tools of a craftsman could have had better care. Teams that stayed with him until the day’s work was done often spent 16 hours in the harness. Yet he never had one refused to do his bidding. He had no patience with one who abused a balky horse, maintaining that if the driver knew as much as the horse, no mistreatment would be necessary.

Special favors among his horses were legion, and would be hard to name. Any animal once broke to his ritual was a favorite. Sometimes it was hard to tell who’s law was deepest, the horse’s or its master’s. More than one of them saved his life at various times by split-second timing in response to his jerk on the line or his sudden command. His pride in his team extended to the roads over which they took him. He took many a kink out of the crooked bit of road by plowing a more direct route from one point to another. He never failed to leave a road better than he found it. His pick and shovel were ever handy to remove an embedded boulder, dig down a wash, or fill in a chuckhole, and his children were always handy to throw out loose rocks.

In spite of his love of horseflesh, his children by no means took second place in favoritism every dollar was made the hardest way, no child was unwelcome. The last of his 28 causes much rejoicing as the first. This rejoicing was doubled when his wife, Mary Jane, gave birth to a pair of twin girls. His strategies then looked as if he claimed all the credit. When his cuatas were still mere babes he took them to Mesa to show what his move to Mexico had netted him. Yet even that was not allowed to eclipse another member of his family, nor allow any child to wish he had been born between. “This is the best child I’ve got,” he’d say as he patted the head of the child nearest him.

He want investors children. But more than closer fine things, he wanted them to be honest, diligent and trustworthy, and to learn the dignity of work. “What you are, you can take with you when you leave this world,” he often said. His love for his children went to a desire for them to be loyal to him and to show it as his forces did. To make it so, he instituted some hard and fast rules: how my son down on Sundays; in bed by 10 p.m. after parties, and by midnight after dances; no sleeping away from home. The hardest of all was: no dates without first getting his permission. “Do you think I’d allow anyone to take my mules from the corral without first asking my permission?” He would say. “And you think I love my mules more than I do my girls?” When times change, he change with them. His younger children heard only, “You’ve been taught correct principles, govern yourselves. But no late hours.” His children rarely forgot.

He was proud to be a member of the first High Council organized by Anthony W. Ivins. When cases were tried, he was invariably assigned to defend. This was because, as explained by President Ivins, Alma Spilsbury was a friend to the erring one. He lost older people on the downward slope of life and his were returned to finding some way to make life writer for them. Hearing of gala occasions in Utah where older people were honored, and attending such an occasion in Mesa, he turned to sell the idea to community leaders, who immediately planned and Old Folks’ Day, and placed him in charge of it. He went himself and by every person in town over 50 years of age of both races, and when the day arrived, he met all honored guests and chivalrously escorted them to their assigned places in the hall. They use corsage was placed on the oldest person present, thus making him the center of attention. As a jovial master of ceremonies Alma lead in the singing of old-time songs. Then, following a sumptuous banquet, all were in a mood to reminisce, and experiences were aired that provoked both tears and laughter until it was time to take them to their homes again.

This first successful Old Folks Day in Colonia Juarez was made into an annual affair, and it was a stake organization under his direction, with Miles A. Romney and Daniel Skousen as helpers. After his death, Old Folks’ Day was held each year on his birthday, August 5, until in later years it lost its identity. Being in charge of such occasions supplemented his dread of growing old, but nothing could really hide the fact from him. Called “old man Spilsbury” for the first time was like a lash from a whip. His family writhed with him, but secretly enjoyed his quick retort: “Looky here, young man, when you can throw more mud out of the ditch in a day than I can, you can call me old.” He never heard the words again.

Eulogies of the dead irked him. “Why couldn’t they have told that poor fellow all those nice things while he was alive?” Life and how was lived were more important to him than how he was buried. “All I ask is that the Lord will let me live as long as I am useful, and then let me die in the harness.” These words were literally fulfilled. In June 1920, following a load of wool on a lonely mountain road, his wagon overturned, killing him and his favorite horse. His body lay in the hot June sun for two days before he was found. He was laid to rest June 22, 1920, in the Colonia Juarez Cemetery.

He was survived by 16 of his 28 children, 14 of whom were born in Mexico, and his posterity numbers around 300 at this writing. Many of his numerous posterity are found in Stake in Ward leadership, also as Stake and full-time missionaries for the Church. Many grandchildren served in all branches of the armed forces during World War II, with but one casualty. There are apt craftsman to be found among his children and grandchildren. Professional men and women are numbered in the fields of medicine, art, science and music. In the field of education are teachers from elementary to university level, as well as principles of high schools. All of which proves, as in the life of Alma P. Spilsbury himself, that hardships and meager opportunities are no bar to achievement if proper incentive is supplied.

Nelle Spilsbury Hatch

Stalwarts South of the Border page 628 Nelle Spilsbury Hatch

Benjamin Julius Johnson

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Benjamin Julius Johnson

(1857-1937)

Benjamin Julius Johnson was born to Benjamin Franklin Johnson and Sarah Melissa Homan Johnson, May 10, 1857 in Santaquin, Utah. His family moved to Spring Lake, Utah when he was 8 years old.

His father was engaged in agricultural pursuits and was also somewhat of an expert in horticulture, planting quite a large orchard and engaging in making syrup, ketchup, keeping bees, using the whole family to help with the work. So Benjamin Julius was brought up learning various occupations, which knowledge served him well in the task of pioneering.

He married Isabelle Millican Russell, November 28, 1878. Sometime between 1880 and 1883 he with his family wife and twin boys moved to Tempe, Arizona, where he engaged in general farming, specializing in bee culture and honey. A daughter, Isabelle Melissa, was born at Tempe, May 19, 1883. Shirley H. was born April 12, 1886. About this time, he moved out on the “Bench” in Mesa, Arizona and developed a large apiary. While at this place he became interested in a young lady by the name of Harriet Jane Hakes and, with the consent of his wife, Belle, they decided he should marry Jane and all move to Mexico where they could live polygamy legally.

A covered wagon was outfitted for the trip, and with a single team of horses they headed for the newly established colonies. Starting early in the fall, they crossed the line at Palomas and camped at a nearby lake. Here Alexander F. Macdonald caught up with them and that same night performed the ceremony then joined Harriet Jane Hakes in marriage to Benjamin Julius Johnson as wife number two. This was October 22, 1889. The stepson of L. V. Guthrie traveled with them and he, too, was married to Winnie Johnson, the same night by A.F. Macdonald.

They traveled on to Colonia Juarez where they bought a house and a small plot of land. The house stood against the hill at the northeast corner of town, above the crossing of the Eastern canal. The plot of land was situated under and adjacent to the west side of the canal. He later built a four room house and tore down the old Orvel Allen two-room shack. The plot of ground served as a family garden and help supply the family food.

These were really hard times, at least for a season, as most of his resources have been spent on the journey. But Benjie, as he was called, was resourceful and versatile. He had learned plastering, and, as a number of brick and Adobe houses were being constructed, he obtained considerable employment, which brought much needed income.

The Johnson family contributed to the cultural life of the colony. Belle had some literary talent and also gave lessons on the organ. Benjie, with natural music talent, played various instruments. He was especially efficient with the violin, and made an excellent fiddler when square dancing was an informal social exercise. He with his lively fiddle and “Uncle Pete” Wood with his flute, playing for many of the hometown dances.

In May, 1895, Benjie moved to Chuhuichupa, where four or five other families had already settled. Sometime later a Branch was organized under the jurisdiction of the Bishop of Pacheco and Benjie was called to be the Presiding Elder until George M. Haws of Colonia Juarez was called to preside over the Chuhuichupa Ward. Benjie was then set apart as a Counselor to the Bishop. Later he was ordained Bishop.

The Johnson family became a sort of hot for cultural and social activities with Benjie at the center as chorister and dance fiddler, and daughter, Belle, at the organ. Later his son Frank became the choir leader, school principal and a leader in academic activities, which “relieved” Uncle Benjie’s overcrowded agenda of Ward duties. Besides serving as leader in religious activities, Benjie set the pace in home beautification. Although not blessed with great financial resources, he did the best he could with what he had. He planted the first apple and cherry orchards in Chuhuichupa. On his farm he raised oats, corn and potatoes. He also worked at sawmilling between farming seasons. His favorite activity was horticulture, and, inasmuch is Chuhuichupa did not seem to fulfill his expectations in this field, he looked elsewhere for a better opportunity. The search led him to Coahuila, Mexico, where his cousin Derby Johnson was promoting a colonization project. This appealed to him as “the Place.” So he decided to make the move and in the early spring of 1911 he moved to Coahuila. However, because of the Revolution in Mexico, he became apprehensive and didn’t stay long in Coahuila, moving to Blue Water, New Mexico, where Colin Hakes, brother of his second wife, Harriet Jane, presided as Bishop. Here Benjie with his two sons Frank and Shirley, engaged in the business of burning lime. But this was not the occupation for Benjie, so he with his sons moved to Mesa, Arizona, in the winter of 1913.

There he engaged in farming, gardening and dairying, until his health began to fail. Then he became a full-time worker in Mesa Temple until the time of his death on February 10, 1938, ten years to the day after his wife Bell passed away. He was buried beside Bell in the Mesa Cemetery close to the graves of his father and mother.

Isabelle Johnson Sevey, daughter

Stalwarts South of the Border, Nelle Spilsbury Hatch page 341

David Brigham Brown

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David Brigham Brown

(1847 – 1920)

Descended from sturdy New England forbears, David Brigham Brown was born January 21, 1847 in Des Moines, Iowa. His father and mother were both faithful members of the church, having resided with the Saints in Kirtland, Ohio and Nauvoo, Illinois. His mother, Lydia M. Lathrop, died of cholera while traveling to the great basin with the company of Saints in August, 1852.

Samuel, David’s father, continued with his family to Utah and settled in Fillmore where David grew to manhood. David early displayed a love for horses, was an expert with them, and with the pony express rider, carrying mail on the road between Fillmore and a point near Camp Floyd, northwest of Lake Utah.

The family later moved to Payson, Utah where David met and married Cynthia Selena McClellan on October 6, 1873. They moved to Gentile Valley, Idaho, where their first four children were born. Two other children were born in Grass Valley, Utah. Tragically, the last child was but a few days old when the mother sickened and died. They then married Anna Helena Rasmussen on February 11, 1885. When their first child, George Andrew, was one year old, David moved his family to San Luis Valley in Colorado. Two more children were born there.

The climate in the San Luis Valley could be severe, however. Crops were slow to mature and the hard winters took a heavy toll on livestock. David dust decided to move south. Working their way down the Rio Grande, the family finally stopped at Deming, New Mexico. There the Browns put up a livery stable and operated a kind of open house where meals were served and beds provided. This developed into “half-way” house for those living in the Mormon colonies, and was often used as a kind of headquarters for many of them. As church leaders visited the colonists, they frequently stayed at the Browns’, going and coming. Eventually, in the mid-1890s, David moved his family to Colonia Diaz. After another stay in Colonia Juarez, they settled in Chuhuichupa, farthest south of all the colonies. There David followed farming, stock raising and dairying. As his family grew, they married and settled near their parents, pursuing the same occupation.

Wherever David lived, he was active in the church, serving as a counselor in several bishoprics. He had a generous nature and, during their life together, he and Lenie made their home welcome to all who needed care and shelter. There was scarcely a time when guests were not living in the Brown home. To mention only a few, there were John and Rob Beecroft, David Fife, George and Mary Russell, and the three Elliott children, Louise, Romula and Jesse who were taken into the Brown home after the death of their mother. The Browns took a young Mexican couple into their home, Dulce and Marie Gonzalez to work on the farm and help in the house. The Browns converted the couple to Mormonism with many of their children, in turn, continuing as active members of the Church. Delbert and Blythe, the last of the Brown children, were both born in Chuhuichupa. During all this time Anna Helena (known as Lenie) worked as a midwife and nurse, caring for the sick with love and kindness.

Along with others, David and his family left Chuhuichupa with most of their possessions at the time of the Exodus of the colonists in the summer of 1912. They erected a livery stable in El Paso as a source of income. Later yet, they rented a 500 acre farm in the Rio Grande Valley. Nostalgia grew, however, and the Browns eventually returned to the colonies, first to Colonia Juarez and then to their beloved Chuhuichupa. They loved the quiet little valley in the high Sierra Madre. It was there that David died on August 9, 1920 and was buried in the little cemetery north of town. Lenie closed her life on September 30, 1943 in Colonia Dublan.

Ruby S. Brown, daughter-in-law

Stalwarts South of the Border by Nelle Spilsbury Hatch page 70

Harry M Payne

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Harry “M” Payne

(1857 – 1940)

Harry “M” Payne was born on December 3, 1857 in Cassup, Durham, England. His parents were Edward Payne and Emma Powell, who were both of English descent and bother were converted to the Church prior to their marriage on September 16, 1854.

This young couple was not satisfied nor happy with the conditions under which they had to work and live, and in their hearts was a longing and desire to gather with the Saints in the Salt Lake Valley. Quietly, they began to make plans and to pray that the way might be opened that they would be able to emigrate.

Harry’s father Edward, was employed in the coal mines, but working conditions were poor and pay was meager. Each miner was bound to his employer by a contract, which made it impossible to improve working conditions or seek other employment. About this time, Edward and three other men, who were members of the Church, decided to break their contracts with the mines. They felt justified in doing this because they were working only half-time.

Consequently, these four men quietly sold what household possessions they could spare to help raise sufficient funds to take them to America. They hoped to find employment and save enough money to send for their families. The men took passage on a sailing vessel and upon arrival in New York were offered employment in the coal mines in Fallbrook, Pennsylvania. This was during the early part of 1863 when the Civil War was being fought in the United States. Therefore, laborers were scarce and the wages high. Edward, with his three companions, decided to do contract work instead of day labor.

In the fall of 1863, Edward, Harry’s father, sent for his wife and four children— George, Harry “M”, Lucy, and Thomas. He also sent passage money for his father-in-law, George Powell. When this group was finally able to leave England, they were joined by the families of the other men, who were with Edward in Pennsylvania. They secured passage on the same sailing vessel and arrived safely in New York on Christmas day 1863. One of the men working in Pennsylvania met the party in New York and took them to Fallbrook, where they joined in a most happy reunion. They Payne family spent the remainder of the winter and the next spring there.

In July, Harry’s mother, brothers, sister, and grandfather left Fallbrook and continued their journey toward Zion. They went by ox team to St. Joseph, Missouri, and from there up the Missouri River to Winter Quarters companies were formed and they began the long, arduous journey across the plains.

The Emigration Fund, sponsored by the Church, afforded the Payne and Powell families the opportunity to borrow money to finance their journey across the plains. There was an unusually large number of Saints from England at this time at Winter Quarters, and the transportation from the regular companies was found to be inadequate. Fortunately, there was a large freight outfit leaving Winter Quarters at the same time, so the belongings of 375 of the group were piled on top of the loaded freight wagons.

To more clearly understand the circumstances, I quote fhe following from Harry’s lips: “My mother and her family, her father and his family, my mother’s sister and her family, making a group of 16 souls in all, were assigned to one freight wagon.” Whe we think fo their baggage, and all the earthly possessions of 16 people being loaded on the top of the wagon, we can readily conclude that all who were physically able had to walk. Grandmother Powell was ill and rode all of the way. The smaller children rode part of the way and occasionally they were allowed to ride the oxen.

On their journey to Zion, Harry and the family saw their first Indians. An Indian chief approached the company and asked for flour, promising that if he were granted the request, the company would have buffalo meat awaiting them on the road the next day. The following day, the came upon Indians who were waiting with three or four dressed buffalo to pay the debt incurred for flour.

This was a treat because, prior to this, the menu had consisted of bread, salt bacon, gravy and small portions of dry foods. They gathered berries and dried them for future use. Usually, the Saints in Utah sent help to travelers by sending dried fruit, squash, beans and any other food.

When nearly halfway to Utah, Thomas, the baby, two years of age, took sick. He died on August 22, 1864, as they camped at Bitter Creek. As the train left camp the next morning, the wagon carrying the sorrowing family lingered behind, while they dressed the child, sewed him up in a sheet, as there was no material for a coffin, and then laid him in a grave, the end of a wagon gate placed over him.

Welcome was the day when they came in sight of the first settlements and people met them with loads of vegetables and fresh foods. The freight wagon which had been used by the Payne’s was going to Heber City, so the three families stayed with the wagon and settled temporarily in Heber. Here, they stayed in the school house for a few days and neighbors brought in milk, butter, and fresh vegetables. So they feasted sumptuously for a time. Only two weeks after the family arrived, Harry’s mother gave birth to a new daughter, Elizabeth.

The next fall, Harry’s father purchased a farm. With the help of his boys, they tried to make a living, but the fourth year of farming was marked by the grasshopper plague. As farming was the only means of support, Edward walked 50 miles to a railroad construction camp where he obtained employment. Later he returned to Heber City and moved his family to Coalville, where they worked in the mines. Harry began working in the mine two months before he was eleven years old. He worked 12 hours per day for .75 cents. His job was to lead a mule which pulled the coal cars. Every other week he had to work at night. The next summer, 1869, the East and West were joined by rail with the completion of the Union Pacific to Salt Lake City.

The family spent the next six years working in the mines, but grew tired of it, so they moved to Glenwood, Utah, where the boys could work on a farm. Shortly after their arrival there, the Church commenced the United Order. Edward told his boys that he was going to join the Order, but they could choose for themselves. By this time, Harry was 18 years old and he joined the Order also. His father divided the property, giving him a pair of oxen and a cow, which he turned into the Order.

Harry had admired a lovely young lady, Helen Amelia Buchanan. Their friendship grew into courtship, and they made plans for marriage. Late in February of 1878, they started for the St. George Temple, 200 miles away, to be married for time and eternity. Another young couple, also to be married, traveled with them. As they were still living in the Order, they were provided a team, feed and wagon, five dollars in cash and 100 pounds of flour to give as a donation to the Temple. It took them a week to make the trip to St. George and on March 6, 1878, they were married and the following day started their homeward journey. A small adobe house with a dirt roof was their first home and what was left of the five dollars set them up in housekeeping. Harry’s assignment in the Order was to haul timber from the mountains and for this purpose he was provided with a team of young oxen and a wagon. After five years the United Order was closed. Harry remained until his termination and drew his equity with which he bought a city lot, a team of horses and a wagon. Very shortly he built a well-constructed, two-room, adobe house, which was their first real home.

Their first child, Harry Lorenzo, was born January 18, 1879. Two years later on January 8, 1881, a daughter, Elnora, blessed their home. At this time Harry found it necessary to leave home to find work, so he went to Marysvale and obtained a job making railroad ties. While there, on April 2, 1882, a call came to fill a mission to what was then known as the Northern States Mission. After his departure, his wife taught school for one year and also worked as a telegraph operator to support herself and her two children. Owning to conditions at the time, the missionaries were required to spend only two summers and one winter, as it was almost impossible to do much tracting during the winter months.

Harry returned from his Mission in December, 1883 and in April of the next year, he moved his family to Rabbit Valley. Here they intended to make their new home, but five days after their arrival, Harry received a letter from President John Taylor calling him to preside as Bishop over the Aurora Ward of the Sevier Stake of Zion. He was only 26 years of age when his family moved to Aurora and there, on April 11, Harry was sustained as Bishop.

At this time polygamy was being practiced and Harry, like other Church leaders, was requested to live this principle. He talked the matter over with his wife Helen, as he did not wish to shirk his responsibility. They looked about for someone to help them live this higher law, and after much deliberation and prayer were led to a young woman by the name of Ruth Curtis. Harry broached this subject to Ruth’s parents and obtained their consent to take their daughter in plural marriage. He then went to Ruth about the matter, gained her consent, and began to court her. Their courtship was short of necessity secret, because of the opposition of outside forces. In order to obey the principle, Harry and Ruth traveled 400 miles round trip from Aurora to St. George by team and wagon to be married in the temple on March 3, 1886.

Harry, Helen and Ruth had lived under trying circumstances because of the crusade against polygamy, but were true to the principles in which they so firmly believed. On June 15, 1887, a daughter, Edna, was born to Harry and Ruth, and as the deputy marshals were constantly seeking to arrest anyone with two wives, Harry took employment up in the mountains in a timber camp. Here he remained until he received a letter from his wife Helen, asking him to come home for short time. He not been home long before Helen gave birth to a son, Junius Edward, on October 3, 1887. A day or two later, Harry’s brother Edward, came to warn him that he would soon be arrested. Harry went immediately to the President of the Stake for counsel and was advised, “You can do more good in the mission field than in the penitentiary.” With the recommended from the Stake President, he reported to Apostle Franklin D. Richards, and was soon on his way to Great Britain. He remained there until October 1889.

On October 30, 1889, Harry returned from his mission and was promptly arrested by S. F. Mount, deputy marshal, for “unlawful cohabitation.” This term meant that a man acknowledged his plural wife whether he was living with her or not. The charge carried a penalty of six months imprisonment and a $300 fine. On February 24, 1890, Harry and his two wives appeared in court. The two ladies were called to witness before a grand jury, but refused to testify against her husband. Nevertheless, sufficient evidence was obtained to get an indictment, so on March 6, Harry was sentenced to six months imprisonment and a $300 fine.

While serving his sentence, Harry decided he would move to Mexico, for he had no intention of learning his plural family. He was released a month early for good behavior. Immediately they prepared for the moved to Mexico. President Wilford Woodruff issued the Manifesto on September 24, 1890, in which he advised the Saints to obey the laws of the land. It was made plain by Church Authorities that the only way in which they could continue to live with their families was to go to a country where there was no law against a plurality of wives. Harry began at once to prepare to move. At last things were ready and their wagon, plow, farm implements, supplies, furniture, bedding, stoves and other household items were are all loaded into a freight car on the Denver-Rio Grande Railroad and the team forces was put in one end of the same car. Harry went along on this trained to care for his animals. The families were scheduled to follow on a passenger train to Deming, New Mexico. Friends met the Paynes in Deming with a team and wagon to assist them in making their way to the colonies in Mexico. They arrived there October 25, 1891.

In Colonia Dublan, Harry and his families were very active in both civil and church affairs. They were poor at this time and had to forgo many pleasures, but managed to sustain themselves. The first year was the hardest, and an example of their poverty is related by second wife, Ruth. Their menu consisted mainly of bread and gravy. Once in a while, they would get a handful of beans and would have a treat of bean soup. When the Payne’s first arrived in Dublan, they lived in a small two-room house. It was here that Ruth’s second daughter, Lucinda, was born on February 12, 1892. Harry’s first job in Dublan was helping to make molasses, and his pay was also in molasses. When winter came, he took a job about 6 miles west of town at Jackson’s flour mill, where he was able to secure flour enough to feed his families.

In the spring of 1892, he rented a small farm from Philip H. Hurst and planted wheat crop, but it proved to be an unusually dry year. The family desperately needed that crop, so they fasted and prayed for rain. The Lord, in answer to their place, sent the “dews of Heaven” to save the wheat and keep it growing another day. In the fall of 1892, the families moved into a house on the main street of town. It was a very cold, open, rough-sawed lumber house. On December 8 18, 1892, Helen’s 4^th son and 6^th child, George, was born. It was snowing at the time of his birth and it was necessary to hang canvas around her bed to keep out the cold wind. In the spring of 1893, Harry found the farm that he could by he could raise the down payment. Anson B. Call, a friend and a neighbor, offered assistance to close the deal by lending him $25.

Harry set about to provide better home for his families. During the next four years, he built to homes and a granary to care for his week. In 1897, Harry purchased a city block in the townsite, and the new home was built for Ruth on the southwest corner. A large tent was pitched on the Northwest corner for Helen. This located the Payne families just across the corner from church and school. Later, another home was erected where the tent had been pitched, and living conditions were much improved for both families. Harry was a man of action, full of vigor, resourceful and determined. These characteristics, along with his faith and testimony of the Gospel, made him an outstanding leader wherever he went.

His first church appointment after arriving in Dublan, Mexico was as an assistant Sunday School teacher. Following this, a Ward was organized in Dublan late in 1891 with Winslow Farr as the Bishop, Frederick G. Williams, First Counselor, Philip H. Hurst Second Counselor, and Harry “M” Payne as Ward Clerk. Shortly after this, Harry was chosen as a regular teacher in the Sunday School. Approximately 2 years later he was sustained as Superintendent and served for several years. Harry was quite musically inclined and talented and singing. Shortly after his arrival in Dublan, he was asked to help lead the singing in the meetings. There is no piano or organ to accompany the singing, so he used a tuning fork to get the pitch for the songs. He served on the first High Council, which was before the Juarez Stake was organized, and served through the administration of President Anthony W. Ivins. During the years of his Stake assignments, he was faithful, and visited all the Wards and Branches by team and wagon or on horseback. In 1894, Harry was called as President Of the Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Association. He was also called to do home missionary work. He traveled 60 miles to the north to visit Colonia Diaz, 150 miles to the west to visit Morelos and Oaxaca, and 90 miles to the southwest to Chuhuichupa. Harry’s eldest son, Harry L., Was the first missionary to leave Dublan by train. He went to the Southern States Mission in the summer of 1897.

In Mexico, the chief industry was farming and, besides caring for his farm, Harry took the job as water master on one of the canals. This job lasted from 1903 to 1912. In overseeing the jurisdiction of water for 1,500 acres of farmland and 300 city lots, much of his traveling for this job was done on the bicycle. Besides this work, he went on the week thresher every season from 1891 to 1912.

Early in the first decade of the new century, there began to be political disturbances in Mexico. The colonists were not alarmed. The rumblings of revolution constantly grew louder and soon actual war broke out in the country. This caused much concern for the safety of all American citizens living south of the border. As the majority of the colonists had retained their American citizenship, they were told to take no part in the Revolution. After much counseling by Authorities, it was decided that all Mormons who were willing to leave their home should return to United States. Harry, with other men, was requested to go on the train that was to take the women, children and older people to the states, and to look after their safety and welfare.

The people of Dublan all gathered at the Union Mercantile to meet the train which was to take them to the States. When the train finally arrived it was loaded almost a capacity with Saints from other colonies, so the Dublan people had to wait for another. In the meantime it started to rain and the dismal weather seemed to add a spirit of sadness. When an extreme came, it was still raining and as the people were getting into the cars, one dear old Englishman said, “Ah, even the ‘evens are weaping with us.” When the trains caring the women and children arrived in El Paso, Texas, the problem of housing caring for them proved to be a real challenge. City officials and immigration officers were very helpful and cooperative in doing what they could to make everyone as comfortable possible. One of the Twelve Apostles, Anthony W. Ivins, who had been the former stake president in Mexico, was sent to El Paso to represent the church in this hour crisis.

All were advised to make their own decisions as to whether they would remain in the States or return to Mexico. Most of the Payne family returned to Utah, leaving behind forever their entire accumulations of 20 years. Many of the refugees settled temporarily along the Rio Grande River, but were desirous of finding a place to establish themselves permanently. Martin L. Harris, who and also settled there, started first Sonora, Mexico, in the summer of 1913. He passed through Lordsburg, he saw Mr. Frank Stowell, a former colonist, who persuaded him to go to Richmond and look at the Valley along the Gila River. Mr. Harris was impressed, so after his return from Sonora he aroused the interest of other refugees in looking at the Valley with intent to make a settlement.

A committee of three men was appointed to look over the proposition. They made the trip immediately after Christmas of 1914, and upon their return the committee, Frederick W. Jones, John B. Jones, and Peter Mortensen, gave a most favorable report. In February 1915, Frederick W. Jones and Samuel A. Brown were sent from the Rio Grande, Peter Mortensen and Joseph Mortenson of Deming accompanying them to meet with Mr. Virden and Mr. Cherry in Duncan, Arizona. They made arrangements to purchase a tract of land belonging to Mr. Burton and Mr. Cherry. As soon as the people began moving into the Gila area, 40 acres were surveyed and divided into blocks for lots and streets, with added acreage for a school. Two lots were reserved for a church and park. About six months after the townsite was laid out, award was organized and the name of the town was changed from Richmond to Virden.

On February 24, 1918, Harry was ordained a Patriarch in this ordination took place at Layton (now Safford), Arizona under the hands of Orson F. Whitney, a member of the Council of the Twelve Apostles. He held this office until his death. Here Harry was still active in the Sunday School, and before his service terminated, he had worked over 50 years in this one organization. This picture and an account of some of his work in the Sunday school appeared in an issue of The Instructor magazine, under the caption, “A Veteran Sunday School Teacher.” In his article, he expressed his confidence that the Sunday School would keep growing and doing much good. He also stated that this organization had done him a great deal of good in broadening his view of the Gospel and giving him an opportunity to serve.

Harry “M” Payne enjoyed a long and active life, but the years always take their toll. He buried his loving wife, Helen, on January 3, 1936. Gradually his shoulders became stooped and his hair turned a beautiful snowy white. But his spirit only grew more stalwart and his noble influence on family and friends more broad and deep. One of Harry’s greatest joys was to be with his children and grandchildren. He was always willing to share some interesting story, experience, or song at family gatherings. On his 81^st birthday, December 3, 1938, his oldest son Harry Lorenzo, known as H.L., paid his father a wonderful tribute when he read a poem and sang the song “That Silver-Haired Daddy of Mine” over the radio from the Safford, Arizona station. In the evening, his children and grandchildren gathered at his home to express her love and appreciation and to wish him health and happiness. In January 1940, he suffered a slight stroke and was cared for with love and tenderness by his devoted wife, Ruth, with the assistance of his sons and daughters who were living nearby. Death came peacefully, on February 28, 1940, in his 83^rd year.

Myrtle Jones Nelson, granddaughter

Stalwarts South of the Border Nelle Spilsbury Hatch page 519

James Andrew Jesperson

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James Andrew Jesperson

1883-1970

James Andrew Jesperson came with his parents, James Peter Jesperson and Emma Ida Johnson, to the colonies in 1896 at the age of 13. Although the first colonists arrived a number of years before his family, James, my father, was indeed one of the true pioneers of the Mormon Colonies in Mexico. He lived in all the colonies of Chihuahua at one time or another because his father James Peter had one of the worst cases of pioneer fever the West had ever known. He finally settled in Colonia Chuhuichupa because his sons were old enough to have a voice in the matter of moving. When his father left Richfield for the colonies, Great-grandfather Christian Jesperson told him that if he ever found a place where he was certain he would stay to let them know and they would come join him. Grandfather was their only child and they wanted to be near him. After his sons refused to move any more, Grandfather decided this was the time to send for his parents.

Great-grandfather Christian Jesperson and Great-grandmother Ane Marie Johansen arrived in Casas Grandes in 1898 on the Noroeste train from El Paso. It was an exciting time for all the family to go down from the mountains to Casas Grandes to meet their grandparents. A new wagon was unloaded from the train and assembled and all their belongings loaded into it. There was a stove, brass beds, a sewing machine, plow and harnesses and many items with which to start life again on a new frontier. As soon as the wagon was loaded they drove over to the cooperative mercantile store in Colonia Dublan. Many necessary items like flour, sugar, and spices were not yet available in “Chupie” (Chuhuichupa) so these things were purchased in large enough quantities to last three or four months.

Grandfather James Peter Jesperson owned a block of four acres on the northwest corner of “Chupie.” Great-grandfather bought two acres to the north. They were closer to the church house. Grandfather Jesperson also owned 40 acres of farm land in the fenced off property of the valley. The fence belonged to the community but each family owned their own land within the fence. No one could own more than 40 acres in this area. The fence kept out the animals which were turned loose to graze around the town lots. After the harvest the animals were put inside the fence. Some of the families owned large cattle ranches in the mountain areas.

Christian and Ane Marie Jesperson took great pride in their vegetable garden. They both spent long hours during the growing season weeding, watering and tending their gardens. They soon had the reputation for the best crops in town. They are both buried in “Chupie.” Great-grandfather died before the Exodus, from a horse kick, and Great-grandmother died after the Exodus. She returned to “Chupie” with her son and his family in 1922.

When my father, James Andrew Jesperson, was 15 years old he went with Erick Jorgensen and his 15-year-old son, Hyrum, to Nogales, Arizona. Brother Jorgensen had contracted to make 16 miles of railroad bed from Nogales into Mexico. They had a hand scraper pulled by horses. They started work at 7:00 a.m. every morning, working six days a week, 10 hours a day. Father worked for two pesos a day, or one dollar and meals. There was thick dust moving through the air and dust was on everything. They had to shoo flies with one hand while eating with the other. He worked a month here and then went to Douglas, Arizona to a freighting job. They hauled freight from Douglas to a mining town in Mexico. His sister Ida was married to John Whetten and living in a camp halfway between Douglas and the mining town. John was also hauling freight. They would drive into Douglas, load the wagons, drive back to camp, stay overnight, then drive out to the mining town and back during the day. Father remembered this camp as a pleasant place under cottonwood trees and by a pretty stream. When the job was finished, Father went back to “Chupie” on horseback, traveling with Bert Whetten who had been working there also. Brother Whetten stopped at his home in Garcia and Father went on alone to “Chupie.” He was now 16 and with the money he earned he bought the lot next to Grandfather’s.

The only high school in the colonies was in Colonia Juarez and Father was anxious to get back in school. It was springtime so Father spent the summer working El Paso, Texas building a railroad bridge.

About this time there is a big economic boom around “Chupie” because of the sawmill industry. William Greene’s Gold-Silver company was building a town around them mother sawmill at Madera. The town mushroomed with the needs of the company and its employees. They were building offices, hospital and homes for the workers. Madera was up in the forest country about 30 miles from the railroad stop at Temosachic. After school was out father got a job bringing supplies by wagon from Temosachic to Madera. He made three trips a week hauling flour, vegetables, tools and other items to the growing town. After this job it was back to school again and the following summer he went back to the same company as a “pony express” rider.

The company was surveying land from Casas Grandes to Madera for a railroad that could close the gap from Chihuahua City to Madera and from Madera to Casas Grandes. They were sending out several surveying groups to survey two different lines. One line went east from Casas Grandes, making a big loop through the valley to Galeana on the south to El valle then to Namiquipa and from there to Temosachic. Father and three other Academy boys got jobs carrying mail. Two of them were Lee Memmott and Earl McClellan. Lee took the mail from Casas Grandes to Galeana. Earl rode all night from Galeana to El Valle. The next carrier took it from El Valle to Namiquipa. Every 10 miles a Mexican had a fresh horse ready. The company had set up small adobe station posts. Father took the mail the longest route from Namiquipa on, about 60 miles to Temosachic. He would ride all night and get in before noon the next day. Another writer took the mail on to Madera which completed the circuit. The other route the company was surveying went through San Diego by the San Miguel River. The mail job lasted only a month because the San Diego surveyors had finished and the company decided to run the railroad straight up through the mountains from Casas Grandes to San Diego and on to Madera.

In 1906, before the Revolution, a Mr. Pomroy of the same company hired father as a scout to lead a group of company men to hunt out the best timberland. In the party was an engineer to decide the most accessible heavy timber locations for the Madera sawmill. There was also a timber expert and a man to cook and pack the mules. The company had leased a large tract of land with timber rights. Large cement monuments were built on the corners to mark the property. Some of the monuments were from 75 to 100 miles apart. The group father was guiding would travel on the leased land until they ran out of supplies and then return for more.

The first place father took them became the first portable sawmill. This was called Chico and became a railroad stop in small town. From Chico he took them to the mountain south of “Chupie,” called the Candelaria Peaks. They started sawing there and workers made a road for the wagons to take the logs about 5 miles to “Chupie” where they started a third sawmill which gave added income to some of the colony men. From “Chupie” he took them to Mound Valley where the timber was high all around the valley. Here they located the fourth sawmill. West of Mound Valley, down across the head of the Gavilan River, they traveled next to the Big Blues covered with timber. They located sawmills on all the main places father took them.

He worked at the scouting job for five months then went back to the Juarez Academy for the last semester of 1907. This is where he met Flora May Williams. They were married September 6, 1908 just after father received a “Box B” letter calling them on a mission to Mexico City. Mother took a job teaching school in “Chupie” and Father went on his mission, which lasted two and a half years. Mother received $25 a month and food donations.

When Father returned from his mission he farmed his land and purchase cattle. The first year he planted vegetables because he knew the sawmill’s paid good prices for fresh produce. The first crop was a wagon load of turnips. He drove to Chico with the wagon bulging with his freshly harvested load and didn’t even have to get out of the wagon to sell it. At the sawmill they bought the whole wagon full for 80 pesos or 40 dollars. Father was certain he would be a rich man with the next season’s harvest, but then came the Revolution and the Exodus of the Mormons.

Father, along with Bishop Tom Sevey and Howard (Howd) Veater, was chosen to be one of the captains to lead the 30 to 40 men down out of the mountains to the border and safety. He was a young man for this job but with much experience for what he had to do. After the women and children had been sent out on the last train to the border, the younger men stayed behind with the hope of protecting the homes in fields and cattle. When the rebels came, the men were far outnumbered and from their lookout point on North Peak all they could do was watch their homes being plundered and burned and their animals killed and crops destroyed.

Father accumulated considerable wealth in his later years in spite of the fact that he had started over again several times in his life. The Exodus from Mexico left him destitute of properties. And the moved from Tucson to San Diego, California some 25 years later, for the sake of mother’s health forced him to sell during depression times. His love of the land and the pride of ownership and his early experience in the colonies gave him outstanding business acumen. When he died February 7, 1970, he left an income for each of his nine children the property that they could look to with pride. The fact that he wrote a letter to each of his children stating he would prefer the first priority on this income be given to sending his grandchildren on missions is a good indication of his values relating to the sharing of the Gospel.

Leanor Jesperson Brown, Granddaughter

Stalwart’s South of the Border, Nelle Spilsbury Hatch page 334

Las Colonias – The Mormon Colonies in Mexico

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