Ariah Coates Brower Mission Journal

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Brower, Ariah Coates 1817-1884 Mission Journal 1869-70

Ariah Coates Brower

father of

John Taylor Brower

father of

George Stephen Brower

father of

Stephen Leon Brower

Mission Journal 1869

(taken from Brower Family Organization 1963-64 News Letters and from a copy of the original hand

written journal in the possession of the Daughters of the Utah Pioneers)

Oct. 29, 1869 This morning I left my home for the coast to fulfill a mission, which was opened me on

the 8th of Oct. Two days was spent before I reached the railroad, on the 1st of Nov. at 3p.m. I took the

cars, with between 60 and 70 Elders, when a slight collision took place between Salt Wells and Point of

the Rock Station on the 2nd day of our trip, injuring two or three of the cars, and bruising Br. Rydalchs

right arm and cutting a little slit in Bro. Scenas left cheek. Bro. Galloway from Tooele City was standing at

the time on the platform between the cars, and had it not been for some invisible power moving him

instantly to the ground, could not have escaped instant death.

Arrived at Omaha on Friday the 5th, at 10:20 a.m. Left Omaha at 2 p.m. took the St. Jo. Ex. Train to

Pacific City, then took the coach to Glennwood, arrived at sundown, from thence to my sister-in-laws on

foot some time after dark.

7th Visited and talked upon the principles of the latter day work with great satisfaction to myself and I

trust to those that listened.

19th For the last 11 days I have endeavored to do all that I could for the advance of the cause of truth

in visiting and preaching the gospel to my friends. Last Sabbath evening, the 14th, I had the pleasure of

lecturing to a crowded house 6 miles below Glenwood in the bottom. The people seem to be very

anxious to hear the Mormon Elders preach. At the close of the meeting a very intelligent young man

come to me and gave me a dollar, he said that it was the last he had. I told him that I had not asked for

money, but he insisted that I should take it and say nothing about it to anyone. The next day he came

where I was and spent about 5 hours in talking and asking questions about the gospel, which I had

preached. He became convinced, and is going to be baptized and go to Utah in the spring. But on

account of his wanting to make an outfit to go with, he wished it to be kept a secret. His name is John S.



Ferris. He thanked the Lord that he had found a Father in the gospel. These things make my heart

rejoice, and is a strong testimony to the truth of the latter day work and makes me try to live closer to

my Heavenly Father. In more than one or two more cases I have sown the seed in good ground, and I

think that it only requires time to develop the same. I can truly say that Pres. Young promises to me are

being satisfied, yea to the very letter, yea, even more. I have not heard anyone speaking one word

against me. And the prospect is flattering that the Elders will do a great work this winter, and will not go

home in the spring empty, but crowned with sheaves, which I most humbly desire.

21st This evening I Preached to a full house, good attention was given. I spoke 1 1/4 hours on the first

principles of the gospel. My lungs are quite weak.

22nd This day as well as most of any time was spent in defending the principles of truth. Wrote a letter

home to my family and one to Bishop Merrill. There is quite a disposition among my friends to inquire.

23rd This morning I left Cordelias on my way to Pepin to visit my sister and brother-in-law. Traveled

six miles to the switch of the railroad, but being too late for the cars I went to Bens and took dinner and

from thence to my nieces, Benjamin Gunsolleys daughter by my sister, Eliza Ann, where I spent the night

and taught her and her husband the principles of truth in my weak way.

24th Being 20 miles from Council Bluffs I started early, but again missed the cars. Not liking to be

disappointed again, I started on foot and made the Point about 2 oclock p.m. where I met the Elders

who started from Utah on the 20th and traveled with them to Rock Island, where we arrived early in the

morning.

25th I started this morning north for Pepin, Wisconsin.

26th I arrived at Madison, the junction, and started again at 9:20 p.m. for Prairie du Chien.

27th Arrived at P. du C. at 6 ½ in the a.m. breakfasted, when I found that I was yet 200 miles off from

my friends. I became discouraged, as my money was getting short, went to the ticket office and

procured a ticket to go back to Rock Island, went into the car and took a seat, when I was impressed

upon not to go back. I then left the car, gave up my ticket, crossed the river, and 9 ½ p.m. again took the

car for the upper country.

28th I arrived at Oruatonna, Minnesota, from thence I took the car to Caslon. There I was about 60

miles from my brother-in-laws, and as there was no railroad from this place to Pepin, so I started on foot

and traveled 18 miles after 10 oclock p.m., when I landed at Pine Island, a small town, where I got good

accommodations at an inn.

29th I started this morning soon after 7 oclock, and traveled hard all day, but on account of my feet

being sore I was not able to go only about 20 miles when I put up for the night.

30th About 2 p.m. I reached the long sought for spot, met with my sister. She was greatly rejoiced at

my presence, the not having seen me for 34 years before. On leaving my boots, I found that my feet

were very sore after which I was obliged to stay in the house for 6 days before I could again get on my



boots. Which time I spent very agreeable in preaching the gospel and expounding the scriptures to my

friends and I sincerely hope that the time has not been spent in vain. Since arriving here I have written

two letters, one home and the other to Cordelia.

Dec. 6th I have again got on my boots, and am about, but not without pain. I hope soon to be able to

get around and go to preaching again among the people and my desires are that I may, through theblessing of the Lord, be enabled to do much good before returning to my home in Utah.

Dec. 7, 8, 9, 10, 11th My time was mostly occupied in preaching to my friends and expounding the

scriptures to them; they do not gainsay anything that I have as yet taught to them.

12th I attended the Methodist Church in Pepin and heard an old fashion sermon the like I had not

heard before for over 34 years, but such folly. I was led to explain; my sister is a member of the church.

In the evening I visited at Mr. Lockwoods, who lives about 1 ¼ miles from my sister. They seem to be

very much interested, and I had great liberty and before it was over was solicited to make an

appointment for Wednesday evening the 15th. At which time they told me they would invite some of

their friends to hear also. Mr. L. is using his influence to procure a place in Pepin for me to speak

publicly. I think there is some wheat in this place.

Dec 13 This day was mostly spent in studying the scriptures, for I find that I am very deficient in them,

because I have not applied myself in the past as faithfully as I might have done. The balance of the time

was spent in teaching.

14 - This day I spent as most of the time has been since I arrived, with the exception of helping my

brother-in-law a little. I feel to acknowledge that the Lord is with me all the time, and that is help, on the

account of which, up to the present time, there has no one been able to successfully compete with me

on the scriptures. The power by which I teach is a mystery to them all; some begin to believe.

15 The day was spent in reading. In the evening I attended an invitation at Mr. Lockwoods, who had

invited a few of his friends to listen to my instruction. We had a very pleasant time, and when we

parted it was 11 oclock p.m. and I am satisfied that good will yet be done in this place.

16 Today my sister an myself went across the river to my nieces where I had a good time in talking to

Mr. White, my nieces husband. Called in some friends in the evening to hear me. We talked till 10

oclock, when a good impression was made upon their minds and much prejudice removed. It is

astonishing the amount of falsehood that is in circulation concerning the Latter-day Saints. I have had

questions asked me that I never had dreamed of before. I learned since I have been in the States that I

had 16 wives at the time I left Nauvoo, 23 years ago. This is quite as correct as most of their knowledgeabout us as a people. We tarried all night, and spent part of the 17th giving instructions to my friends,

and got back home in the p.m.

18 Was spent in reading and counseling with my friends upon the general principles of the gospel and

writing letters for my sister to her friends in Illinois and Nebraska.



19 I attended Methodist meeting at 2 p.m. and at 6 this evening. I preached to a good house on the

first principles of the gospel; good attention was paid. There is a good many old Nauvoo Mormons in

this neighborhood. They are very friendly and are anxious to hear me preach, in fact it was through their

influence, in part, that the house was obtained, the Hicks are some of them.

20th This evening I went, in company with my friends, to visit by invitation, a family by the name of Holden, who had invited in some of their friends to hear the Mormon talk. We had a good time, and

they listened to me with great interest. We went home about 10 p.m.

21 Very cold day, stayed at home, spent my time in talking or teaching, and in the evening wrote a

long letter home to my family.

22 I spent part of the day at Mr. Lockwoods preaching to them the principles of polygamy. The rest of

the day I spent at home, with the exception of going to town, where I received three letters from home,

via Glenwood. I was introduced to two or three Masons. In the evening I wrote two letters, one to

Cordelia and the other to Mr. Hutchins, near Glenwood.

23 It being about the coldest day I ever witnessed, stayed at home and talked and read the scriptures

to my friends till 9 p.m.

24 This morning was spent in going with my brother-in-law over his wood-land, it being a very pleasant

day. This afternoon I went to Pepin and got 3 papers from the office. I spent the evening reading.

25 Christmas In the a.m. I helped Josh kill a beef. [Ariahs sister Eliza, with whom he was staying, had

a son named Joshua.]. This p.m. I wrote a letter home to my family, wishing them all a Merry Christmas.

I would like to have spent this day with my family in Utah; but the best that I can do is to pray for, and

wish them well, and live in hopes, in due time of the Lord, of seeing them again. These are among the

happiest days of my life; and all that I have to regret is that I am no better qualified to preach the gospel.

Oh! If I had my life to live over I would try to get more knowledge by reading and doing my duty better

at home, but the past can only be bettered by doing better in the future.

26 I spent the day at home in reading and trying to prepare myself to be more useful for the future

than I had hither to been. Visited home with Mr. White, my nieces husband. I learned this evening that

some of the citizens of Pepin had procured a hall for me to preach in and me to state the time when I

would speak to them on the subject of polygamy. This subject I do not like to speak upon first to any

people, but would like to speak upon the first principles of the gospel once or twice, and then I am ready

for polygamy. I think that this course will have the best effect upon the minds of the public. I always like

to give them a good dose of the first principles to prepare their minds for the rest.

27th Dec. Today I spent the time at home reading and instructing my friends in the ways of life.

28th This day my brother-in-law and myself went up to Pepin to the P.O. [post office] and also to see if

I could have the hall to lecture in , but on account of some little misunderstanding about the hall, the

lecture was put off till Thursday, the 6th of Jan. 1870, when I anticipate a good house. While in town and

in a store of a friend he made an attempt to introduce me to a man that was in the store. The man never



even so much as looked up, but merely gave a grunt. His name was Boyd Newcomb, He was considered

very ungraciously by the merchant, and as for me, I only considered it as the boy did when the ____

____ kicked him.

While I am on this subject, I will mention a circumstance that took place on the 19th. Just before I went

to hear the Methodist preacher preach this day, Mr. Lockwood wrote out an appointment for me topreach in the evening, and my sister handed it to the preacher, (she being a member of this church) and

asked him he would read the notice. After he read it he handed it back to her and said that he could not

read it. I guess that his objection was that he was afraid of some of his flock following me off. His name

is Felix Wells, and he is considered by most of the people quite an ignoramus, but not withstanding all

this, I had four or five times as large a congregation as he did. This evening I went in company with my

brother-in-law over to Reeds landing, on the opposite side of the river to visit my niece again. We had a

very good time, set up till 11 oclock in the evening. Her husband seems to be very interested in my

talks. I expect to soon deliver some lectures at that place.

29th This morning I spent as I did last evening in teaching; ½ past 2 p.m. we started for home. This

evening we have some neighbors in to talk with me by the name of Flint and his lady. We passed the

evening in talking polygamy and the first principles of the gospel. They seemed to be much interested in

my explanations. We kept up the conversation till 10 oclock when we retired to rest. I was very tired,

for I was obliged, as Mr. Flint was hard of hearing, to speak very loud.

30th 10 oclock a.m. Mr. Shaw came here to talk with me. He seemed to understand all of our

principles with the exception of polygamy, but three hours seemed to satisfy him on the subject. I think

that he has been an Old Mormon, but yet did not hint at any such a thing. He is anxious to have a further

talk with me at some future time. This afternoon I again went to Pepin to see if there was any news from

Utah for me. I am generally very anxious to hear from my family as often as possible. This evening I

spent in writing in my journal. I anticipate going to bed willing early tonight, as we have been up rather

far a few nights.

31st The last day of the year. I wrote a letter of 6 pages to my family and one of 4 pages to Bro. Joseph

Bull, and have done but very little in talking upon the principles of the gospel today.

1870

Jan. 1st I spent the day at home, went with my brother-in-law to the woods and helped him get a pair

of sled crooks, and spent the evening in reading the Book of Mormon to my friends.

2nd The afternoon I spent in writing and at 2 p.m. I attended a Methodist meeting, they seemed to bevery much concerned about me. So much is their concern that when the preacher was praying he said,

Oh, Lord, preserve us from false doctrines, and from that crying evil called Mormonism, and from

licentious and abominations, which they are trying to teach in our midst. And in his sermon he said that

we did not believe in the Holy Ghost, but I think those who hear me preach believe to the contrary. This

evening I preached to a crowded house on polygamy; I spoke one hour and fifty minutes, and I think

that they were generally satisfied with my remarks. I had great freedom. At the close of the meeting I



took a vote of the house, and a majority of them voted to hear me again, so two weeks from this

evening I will preach to them again, if the Lord wills.

3rd I wrote a letter for my sister of four pages to my sister-in-law in Iowa. I also wrote one to the same

person for myself of four pates telling her how I am getting along. This p.m. I read some of the

Revelations of John to my friends in this place, and in the evening I wrote a letter to Geo. Q. Cannon, Edof Deseret News.

4th Tuesday Read part of the day and helped Josh a little on Bobbys sled. Went after the cows in the

evening for exercise. Talked some in the evening with my friends upon the principles of the gospel.

5th Wednesday I went over the river this morning to see my niece and nephew again and talked

some more to them, and returned again this evening, feeling tired, having walked 12 miles. This evening

we have had a good chat about Utah; the manner of farming and the amount of labor connected there

with. Also gave them a brief account of the size of vegetables, and I told them I had seen parsnips and

carrots that were three feet long and well proportioned, being about 4 inches in diameter at the butt

end. We also discussed the quality of fruit, and when I said that I had seen peaches that could measure

10 ½ inches round, they thought that these things looked a little fishy. I sent the following note to Pepin

to be read in the schools to wit.

Pepin, Jan. 5, 1870

Elder A.C. Brower, from Utah, will deliver a lecture on polygamy tomorrow evening at 6 oclock at

Miarsels Hall.

The teachers of the several schools will please be so kind as to read the above notice, so that general

notice may be given of the lecture.

Your friend, A.C. Brower

6th Thursday I spent the day at home helping some on a sled that my brother-in-law was making and

in the evening I preached at Pepin on polygamy to about 70 people. I never had so hard a time in my life

to speak, the words seemed to come back at me, and I had no freedom of speech at all, but done the

best I could. I spoke a little over an hour, and was glad to get away. I do not know how to account for it,

unless it was because I had forgotten to fast this morning, it being the regular day for the Saints to fast. I

try to live my religion to the best of my ability, God being my helper. I will try not to forget next fast day.

It was rather late this evening before the people came in, and then the hall was rather cold, so I had to

talk to a trembling congregation, and that rather confused me. I am in hopes of doing better for thefuture.

7th Friday Was at home all day reading a very little, and the rest of the time I spent in helping on the

sled. This evening I spent in writing in this journal and in as much as I received two letters from home

last night, I occupied the remainder of the evening in writing to my family.



8 Saturday This a.m. I finished my letter to my family, which contained 10 pages. This afternoon I

went to Mr. Samuel Hicks who had given out the appointment for me to preach at Plumb Creek. I spent

the evening in talking and reading to them, until quite late hour, when we retired to rest, after having

prayers.

9th Sunday This morning Mr. Hicks took his team and took me to Plumb Creek, 3 miles where Ipreached to a very small congregation, it being a very stormy time. After meeting was invited to have

some dinner which we did, after which we went back to Hicks, where we spent the evening talking

upon the principles of the everlasting gospel till near 12 oclock.

10th Monday This morning I read a note from a man by the name of Rodger Parker of Fall City, Dunn

Col Wis., giving me a kind invitation to come there and make them a visit. He wished me to come and

stay some time, and promised to get me a house to preach in. He belongs to the Church, has sold out,

and is going to Utah in the spring, and is desirous of obtaining information from me how that he can go,

to be the most advantageous to him. He has some relatives in Utah. I shall try to get up there as soon as

I can, and give him all the information that I can in proportion of that will be of use to him. At 10 oclock

a.m. I started to home stopped at Mr. Lockwoods (who is very friendly towards me) and after a very

pressing invitation, I stopped to dinner after which they prevailed upon me to stay all night and go to

the Methodist meeting in the evening, which I did. And during the service the preacher used the most

abusive language towards me and the Saints in Utah. He has forbidden the members of his church

coming to hear me and is trying to getup an excitement against me. Through which the people begin to

talk of mobbing, tar, and feathering and putting me under the ice. What all this will amount to I am not

present able to determine, but I hope for the best and try to prepare for the worst. Oh, the wickedness

and the abominations that are practiced in this country about almost makes me home sick.

11th Tuesday I spent most of the a.m. at Mr. Lockwoods After a kind invitation to call again, I left for

home, where I arrived all safe and sound, a little before noon. On my arrival my sister presented me

with a letter which had arrived during my absence from my family. These items are most welcome to

me. This evening I wrote a letter home and went to bed early.

12th Wednesday Spent the day in reading. [The following sentence was crossed out. In the evening

wrote a letter to John S. Ferris, Pacific City, Mills, County, Iowa.]

13th Thursday This day I am fifty three years old. I enjoyed myself first rate. Spent most of the day in

reading the Bible, and trying to qualify myself better to perform my duty as an Elder in Israel. This

evening I spent in writing a letter to a friend at Pacific City, Mills, Co., Iowa, and one to my brother-in-

law in the same place of four pages, each.

14th Friday Helped my brother-n-law haul wood. Spent the evening in reading and explaining the

scriptures.

15 Saturday Read the Bible nearly all day. In the evening Mr. S. Hicks and wife came and visited with

us. We spent the evening in discussing upon topics in general. About 8 oclock Mr. Shaw (whom I had



recently talked with) came in and stayed all night. We set up (after Mr. Hicks had left for home) and

talked till a very late hour, when, after prayers, we all retired to rest.

16th Saturday This morning conversation was continued upon the principles of the everlasting

gospel until nearly 12, when Mr. Shaw started for home and prepared myself for the evening meeting.

Stopped at Mr. Lockwoods; took supper, and tarried there till near 6, when we went to meeting, itbeing a very rainy night, but five turned out. I read considerable out of the New Testament, upon the

first principles, made a few remarks, in shape of a testimony, when I dismissed the meeting without

giving an appointment for another meeting, on account of the opposition that is raging in the

community against the Latter-day Saints. Stopped at Mr. Lockwoods, by invitation, and talked to them

till about 10, when we went home, prayed and retired to our rest.

17 Monday This is one of the stormiest mornings that I most ever experienced. It blows the snow to

that degree that it is almost impossible to be out of the house. In consequence of which I thought that I

would spend part of the day in writing to my family.

18 Tuesday Read most of the day and talked upon the scriptures the balance of the time.

19 Wednesday Having caught some cold on last Sunday evening, going through the rain to meeting,

was obliged to keep in the house all day on account of my lungs being sore. My sister made me a plaster

which I put on my chest, and I occupied my time in reading the Bible and marking it to accommodate my

brother-in-law, for he wished to learn the first principles of the gospel that he might be able to cope

with the sectarians of this country.

20th Thursday This morning I feel some better, but still keep the plaster on my chest. I think that it is

doing me good. My brother-in-law and sister went over the river today to see their daughter who has

lately been confined of a fine boy, and is not coming back till tomorrow, and I am staying home to takecare of their grandson, (who is l iving with them) and the house while they are gone from home. This

afternoon I wrote a letter to my family and one to O.P. Bates, my son-in-law, at Tooele City, Utah, and

this evening I read the Bible.

21 Friday This day I received three letters; one from home, one from Cordelia and one George

William Brower, my nephew from Iowa. The day has been occupied by reading them and writing an

answer to Cordelia. Last night late, Joshua lost a last springs calf and Robert and myself searched the

same, and did not retire to bed till near 12, very tired and sleepy. Today we have been keeping old batch

by way of a change. My sister and husband come home and I spent the evening in reading to them in

the Book of Mormon, which they seemed to be very much pleased with. At a reasonable hour, after

prayers, we retired to rest.

22 - Saturday This forenoon I spent in writing letters, one for myself to my nephew, George William

Brower, of Glenwood, Mills Co., Iowa, and one for my brother-in-law to his daughter living at Salt Creek,

Cass Co., Nebraska. I also wrote a letter in answering to one I received from Rodger Rarker, at Fall City,

____ Co., Wis., inviting me to come and make them a visit, as they were going to Utah in the spring.



23rd Sunday This a.m. I spent in reading the Deseret News, as I received three last night. These

papers are always a great to me. This p.m. I had a visit from a gentleman by the name of Luthers. He is

very friendly and is desirous to learn our principles. I told him plainly that it was no use for him to

investigate, unless, if he become convince, he would embrace the same. He cannot see how the world

are going to get around polygamy. I read to him Dr. Allens defense of polygamy from Prest. G.A.Smiths

pamphlet, which is a clincher to everyone who hears the same. I also read President Taylors reply to

Colfaxs speech which he gave on the 5th of October in Slat Lake City, which he seemed to enjoy very

much as he was an old citizen of Boston, and knows that the principles of iniquity discussed by Pres.

Taylor are all true to the very letter. He listened attentively to all that I said; I had great freedom and felt

first rate. He is anxious to hear me further. He stayed till some time in the evening. After he left I

continued the subject till quite late in the evening, when after prayer, we all retied to rest.

24 Monday As my brother-in-law was going over the river with his team to haul wood two or three

days for his son-in-law, I turned to and helped him get ready. He started about 11 a.m. after which I

wrote one hour in this journal to catch up. Then, as I had nothing very particular to do, I wrote a letter

home to my family of four pages, in reply to the one that I received last Saturday. I was glad to learn thatmy family are all well and the Lord was prospering them, and that they had enjoyed themselves during

the holidays, and that the brethren had not slighted them in the least, for which I am very thankful. This

evening we had a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Lockwood, also an Elder of the Christian Church by the name

of Haggard. We discussed the principles of religion till near 12. I find that his belief, so far as the 1st

principles are concerned, are just like ours, but when we came to the blessings that should follow them

that believe, then we differed. He believed that anyone had the right to preach the love that Christ and

the Apostles left with us. I felt my weakness on this occasion more than at any previous time since I left

home. Mr. and Mrs. Lockwood listened with great attention to the conversation. The talk was conducted

with perfect decorum and we parted as best of friends.

25th Tuesday This morning no sooner than I had the chores done up then a gentleman came to see

me by the name of Henry Hoage, pretended infidel, who came not only to have a talk with me, but came

as a committee to invite me to give a lecture or two at Lake City, on the opposite side of Pepin Lake, the

people of that place being desirous to hear an Elder of our Church lecture. The time to preach is yet in

the future. There is new avenues opening every day or two and I trust that much good will yet be done

before I leave this place. As I was up late last night, we retired to bed after prayers, about ½ past 7.

26 Wednesday Spent the day at home reading the Bible and doing the chores and talking upon the

first principles of the gospel.

27th Thursday Most of the day I spent in writing to my family and to Pres. Young, 8 pages to thePres. and 6 to my family. The evening, as usual, was spent in reading and talking upon the merits of the

gospel.

28th Friday Spent the day in doing the chores and reading and explaining the scriptures to my sister,

who is very attentive. This evening Joshua came home, and his son-in-law, Mr. White, came with him.



This evening I talked to the folks about 2 hours, upon the first principles of the gospel, with great

satisfaction, not only to them, but to myself also. About 10, after prayers, we retired to rest.

29th Saturday This morning I went with my brother-in-law to Mr. Lockwoods where he goes nearly

every Saturday to dress his mill stones, and I spent most of the day in preaching to Lockwoods wife

upon the principles of the Latter-day work. The evening was spent in reading the Deseret News, which Ihad just received. My friends here seem to take a deep interest in the news from Utah, the paper

continued the final indignation meeting and two letters from myself, one from Bro. Cannon and one to

Bro. Bull.

30th Sunday This day I spent at home with my brother-in-law, in reading to him the papers, and

discussing other matters of importance. My sister went to Pepin to the Methodist meeting. This evening

I talked and read the Book of Mormon to my brother-in-law and sister.

31st Monday I helped fit up my brother-in-law to go over the river to haul wood for White, his son-

in-law, after which I spent the balance of the day and the evening in reading and explaining the

scriptures to my sister.

Feb. 1 Tuesday I done the chores and the balance of the time I read and preached to my sister.

2 Wednesday After having done the chores this morning, I received a call from Albert C.Fuller, who

wishes to have a talk with me upon the principles of our holy religion, and especially polygamy. During

our conversation two gentlemen came from Lake City, Minnesota, to invite me to go over there and give

a few lectures upon our doctrine. They wished to know my terms I told them that my lectures were all

free, never-the-less, when I got through, if any one wished to give me anything to help me on my way to

preach the gospel, I would receive it very thankful and they would be blessed therefore. They had

already procured the Concert Hall for me to speak in. Mr. Richardson, one of the men who came toinvite me, belonged to no church, and had taken quite an interest in my behalf. He said that he had sent

to Salt Lake for the Book of Mormon and did not know the reason why it had not come. He is a

merchant of that place. After they left I continued conversation with Mr. Fuller till near night when he

went home, but promised to come and make me another visit for he had got some ideas from me that

he thought a great deal of. I let him take the Deseret News which contained my letter to the editor of

that paper and also Br. G.A. Smiths pamphlet. This evening I read a sermon of Elder O. Pratt to my

sister. She thought that I was a first rate one.

3rd Thursday Today I made a visit to Mr. Haags, spent about 3 hours with him, and returned home

in time to do the chores. This eve I spent in writing in this book, and to my family.

4th Friday After I got the chores done, I fixed myself and started for Lake City. I found my friends

ready to receive me, which they did very kindly and introduced me to a host of the leading men of that

place, who came in through the day. My notice having been published in the Lake City newspaper. The

people had a good chance to see the notice. At 7 p.m. the large Concert Hall was full, and at my entering

the room every eye seemed to e directed towards me. This being the largest congregation that I had

met, it made my heart go pitty-patty, but the Lord stood by me and bestowed upon me, His unworthy



servant, a good portion of His holy spirit. I lectured upon the rise and progress of our Church, resting

some upon the persecutions through which we had passed, interspersing the whole, then, with

quotations from Jesus and the Apostles, upon the first principles of the gospel. I spoke an hour and a

half, after which the people donated nearly four dollars. This evening the Hall was tendered to me free

of charge. I think that was the first time that the hall had ever been given to anyone with out charge.

After the meeting I gave out an appointment for tomorrow evening; subject, polygamy. I then retired

to my boarding house, and answered questions and talked upon subjects until 11, when I retired to my

room for the night.

5th Saturday As soon as I was up, conversation commenced, and I had no chance to go from the

room (except to get breakfast) till 11 a.m., when I went over to the ___ and very agreeably spent the

balance of the day, during which I had numerous introductions to gentlemen, who more or less were

anxious to make inquiries about Utah and her inhabitants. My address was taken by quite a number

who seemed anxious to correspond with me at some future time. Also, I received cards and a few

photographs of some new machinery. Many told me that they thought of visiting Utah at no distant day

and some wanted me to call again for they wanted more conversation with me. 7 p.m. at last arrivedand with a full house, people told me that is was the best house of the season. Many of the first ladies of

the place were there. As I reached the stand, the house gave me a very handsome cheer, which I did not

allow to throw me off my guard. The spirit of the subject for the evening, in answer to my prayer, came

upon me. Three or four times during my lecture I was compelled to stop for a few moments to give the

house a chance to cheer. The lecture seemed to give general satisfaction. I thanked them very kindly for

their good feelings toward me. I spoke nearly 2 hours. They made another small donation to me; the

expenses of the hall was then paid for the night and after making a promise to call upon a lady relative

of Pres. B. Young, I retired to boarding house, and on the way had my hand shook by some who wished

me goodnight and much success. One gentleman by the name of W.A. Doe, lumber merchant,

volunteered to take me home in the morning. After getting to my boarding house, conversationcontinued for some time, when on account of my lungs being very sore, I retired to rest.

6th Sunday People seemed to be anxious for me to do all the good that I could, kept me busy till the

gentleman arrived to take me home, with the exception of ½ an hour I spent with the lady relative of

Pres. Young, whose name I did not learn, was very friendly. On arriving at home I found my niece and

her husband had come over to make a visit. I them gave them a brief statement of my success while

absent. Before leaving Lake City I promised to visit them again, which I anticipated doing at no distant

day. My niece and nephew told me today that they intended to go to Utah. I told them that I was glad of

it, but first wanted to drown them in the Mississippi River so far as their sins were concerned and she

said that so far as she was concerned she was ready. And I told her that God would help them and openthe way for them that they could go. The work seems to assume a new appearance in this place, which

is very flattering to me as a servant of God.

7th Monday This a.m. I spent principally in writing and talking to my niece, p.m. the same. This

evening we had a very good time, I never was anymore filled with the Spirit of God in my life, and of

course, I talked very plain and bore a faithful testimony to the truth. My niece and nephew say that they



are satisfied with my religion, and are willing to go to Utah as soon as they can make an outfit. They

seem to be very honest hearted.

8th Tuesday This a.m. I spent in answering some letters which I received last evening, and one to my

family. This p.m. and evening I spent in teaching and reading with the blessing of the Lord, to a very

good effect.

9th Wednesday This morning White and family went home, he came back in the evening with the

team and this eve we had a very good time in talking and reading till a late hour when after prayers we

all retired to our beds.

10th Thursday Went home with Mr. White, where the gospel sermon was continued. In the evening

Mr. Albert Fuller came and made us a visit. He is believing. We had a very interesting time of it till about

11, when we parted. All seemed to be well satisfied.

11th Friday spent part of the day up town at Reeds Landing, answering such questions as were put to

me by merchants and others, who all seem to give me the preference in regard to our doctrine. The p.m.and evening were spent in discourse upon the principles of the gospel, and our company was honored at

the company f Mr. Alvin Fuller and wife, who, when left, had their eyes opened a little with regard to the

religion of the Latter-day Saints and the signs of the times.

12th Saturday as this was one of the coldest days of the season we kept close to the house,

consequently the day was well spent in discoursing upon those matters calculated to do the most good.

[The following was crossed out: This evening White and myself went to hear an Episcopalian preach, it

was quite a treat to me, for it was the first one of the kind I had ever heard, and as for myself, I thought

if I wanted to read the prayer book and Bible I could do it at home and save me the trouble of going to

meeting.]

13th Sunday The same subject was continued all day with the exception that they wanted me to

name and bless their son, as I had agreed to on a former occasion, which I did. I called it Arieh Bosley

White, its mothers maiden name being Bosley. They were all satisfied with the blessing and name, and

often during my visit expressed themselves perfectly satisfied with our religion, and many times

inquired how to manage to get to Utah, and are going either this spring or in the fall. This evening White

and myself went to hear an Episcopalian preach. But I thought such folly and delusion and could not

help thinking that the fool killer was neglecting his duty.

15th Tuesday Helped haul wood. Last night received a letter from home, from my daughters. Read

the Book of Mormon in the evening to my friends.

16th Wednesday This morning, upon an invitation previously received from Col. B. Allen, at Pepin,

for me to make him a visit. I shaved and prepared and went to visit him. I found him at home, and very

glad to see me, so also was his wife, notwithstanding she being a Spiritualist. The day was spent very

agreeable to all. A variety of questions were asked and answered. Mrs. Allen attempted three or four

times to debate the merits of her ---___ with me, but she getting the worst end of the bargain, she soon



left off, and the coast was clear for me to talk and explain things to her in the way the Latter-day Saints

understand things. Mr. Allen is a gentleman in the broadest sense of the term. He said that the object he

had in view for sending for me was that he might get to understanding what the Mormons believed in,

for he said that he was getting old, and had never joined any church, and he thought that it time for him

to find out the best doctrine and join. He did not feel disposed to gainsay anything that I had preached

to him. Had lived where the church was organized near, Fayette, N. Y., and was aquainted with some of

the first member of the church, but had never investigated any of the principles before, and was

astonished to hear now we had been persecuted, he had heard some of it, but not the truth. Thought

that congress should find some better employment than to meddle with us. We talked till a late hour,

when we retired to rest.

17th Thursday Conversation upon general topics were resumed and during the day and evening I

read nearly all of G.A. Smiths pamphlet to them, besides quoting largely from the Old and New

Testaments. He thought that polygamy was a grand improvement upon the monogamous order of

things. He was perfectly aware of all the evil practice of the age. Was very elated with the idea of being

sealed for eternity and the perpetuation of the lives, but Mrs. Allen could not see into the philosophy of such things, but thought Freedomism the best way, and thought that hereafter we would all be mated

according to our desires, and did not believe in any ordinances whatever. We discoursed till 11, when,

after attending prayers, by their request, we all retired.

18th Friday This a.m. was well spent in trying to do good. At 12 p.m. I shook hands, God blessed

them, and after receiving a pressing invitation to come again I left, and in 2 miles travel I was again at

my headquarters, where, as usual, I was very warmly received. After dinner I read the papers a short

time, when I catched up with this journal. This evening I spent in reading and talking to my friends, and

can say that the Lord is blessing me all the time with His Holy Spirit, and I trust that I may be able to do

much good.

19th Saturday This day was occupied in writing letters. I wrote three, these as follows: one to my

family of 6 pages, one to Cordelia of four pages, and to Bro. Bull of four pages. The evening in general

conversation and reading.

20th Sunday I went over the river to again make Mr. White a visit for the day. Spent the day very

agreeable. Home before dark and with one of the neighbors spent the evening very agreeable in

discussing the principles of the gospel till after 11, when after prayers, we retired to rest.

21st Monday I started this morning for the purpose of going to visit Bro. Parker at Mud Creek.

Stopped at Mr. S. Hicks to make them a visit and stay all night. While here I learned that some of Bro.Parkers sons had been within two or three miles of here twice, and had not called to see me, so I

concluded that they did not wish to see me very bad, and as I am not very much on the walk since I lost

my great toe nails, I concluded that I could occupy my time to a very good advantage in this

neighborhood, I did not go. In the evening we took supper with an old bachelor by the name Peter Little,

but as he had a little of the spirits of alcohol in his upper story, I had but very little to say to him. At 9 we

got back to Mr. Hicks, talked till 11 and after, when after prayers, we all retired to rest. However, upon



my arrival at Mr. Hicks, a Methodist preacher, Rev. Dyton, was there taking dinner. I was introduced to

him, also his wife and daughter, but they had no curiosity to make any inquiries about Utah, or us as a

people, so I had no conversation with him. I think that he had hold of an Elder before and did not relish

him very much.

22nd Tuesday I left and returned home, leaving an appointment to visit them in company with mybrother-in-law and sister on next Saturday, if the Lord wills. I spent the evening at home reading an

discussing the principles of the gospel. This evening I received the Deseret News and a letter from Sister

Beckley of Fond du Lac, telling me that her husband did not want me to come and see them, but

desired an interest in my prayers that she might obtain the desire of her heart in righteousness, leaving

me to imagine the balance, which I understood to be that she wanted to be gathered with the Saints in

Utah, either through her husband doing right and going to Utah, or that she might be delivered from

him. She was my faith and prayer in her behalf.

23rd Wednesday I stayed home today and read the News to my brother-in-law, who is deeply

interested on the news from Utah, and says that we are more than a match for all the rest of the world,

and does not see how they are going to do anything with us politically or religiously. A great deal of my

time has been spent with my brother-in-law, in answering his questions and teaching him the principles

of the everlasting gospel, as he has been very anxious to learn and embrace the same, but before

embracing, he wished to have a thorough understanding what he was about, and he is now only waiting

for the ice to leave and for it to get a little warmer, as he is 64 years old, has a little dread to cold water,

and there is several more waiting for the same purpose. We spent the evening in reading the Book of

Mormon and expounding the same, and writing a letter to my family.

24th Thursday Helped my brother-in-law haul 6 loads of wood, and spent the evening in reading and

discussing religion.

25th Friday as my brother-in-law was sick with the toothache I done the chores, and all the rest of

the time I was in the house and read to him. This evening I received a letter from home of 8 pages, and

was very much pleased to hear that the family were all well, but some of their weights are getting

enormous.

26th Saturday My brother-in-law is not much better this morning. About ½ past 10 Mr. S.Hicks came

for us to go and make him a visit; as my brother-in-law was not able to go, my sister and myself went

with Mrs. S. We had a very good time. I preached to them about 2 hours. On our arrival home, just dark,

and found Mr. and Mrs. White here. But on account of my lungs being sore I did not talk very much

through the evening. I again put a plaster on my chest, and taking some composition tea, retired to bedabout ¼ past 9, after prayers.

27th Sunday We spent the day very pleasantly in discussing the principles of the gospel, and

occasionally reading, and explaining the Bible to them. About 3 oclock by the request of my brother-in-

law, I fixed the pinchers on his decayed tooth, when, upon two attempts, we succeeded in pulling the

thing out; after which he felt much better. The evening was occupied as was the day.



28th Monday I wrote three letters today, one to my family of 6 pages, one to Bishop Maughan of 4

pages, and one to Bro. and Sis. Beckley of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. As my friends are still here we spent

the evening in reading and preaching the principles of the gospel to them, when after prayers we all

retired to rest.

1st March Tuesday This was a stormy day till about 12 when it cleared off and was mild the balanceof the day. I occupied my time in teaching my friends the principles of the gospel, and made some very

favorable impressions upon them.

2 Wednesday This afternoon we had Mr. and Mrs. Haling from Pepin, to make us a visit. Haling is a

Spiritualist and seems to be satisfied with that as his religion. I showed up the folly of it to him and

contrasted it with the gospel of Jesus Christ and the principles of life and salvation, and told him that the

Lord never did choose women to reveal his mind and will to the children of men in no age of the world

nor never would, and that Spiritualism was nothing more nor less than the opposite power and

influence from that of truth, and that it existed in every age of the world when God was giving

intelligence through His Holy Angels to the children of men, and that it was the same power that the

Egyptian astrologers had in the days Moses, and the same power by which the Witch of Endor called up

the prophet Samuel. I instructed my friends till bed time.

3rd Thursday This a.m. I wrote a letter to my family, as I am going to start this evening for Fond du

Lac to make Bro. and Sis. Beckley a visit, as they have been so kind as to solicit it, and have sent me $10

to defray the expenses of the trip, this is the kind of Saints. This evening we occupied ourselves in talking

and reading upon the old topic and trying to improve ourselves.

4th Friday About 2 p.m. after bidding my friends good-bye, I started for Reeds Landing, in Minnesota,

where I arrived all safe, stayed all night with Mr. and Mrs. White, talked with them till quite late hour,

when after prayers we retired to rest.

5th Saturday At 9 this morning I started in the stage for La Cross and as it is Saturday the stage did

not go any further than Winona. I put up at the Huff House.

6th Sunday 2 p.m., I again took passage on the stage for La Cross, where I arrived a short time after

dark, sick from inhaling so much tabacco smoke in the stage. Most everyone in this country smoke to a

great excess.

7th Monday At ¼ past 5 a.m. I shipped aboard the train for Watertown, Wisconsin and from thence

to Fond du Lac, where I arrived all right ½ past 6 p.m. Was kindly received by Bro. and Sis. Cones, Bro.

and Sis. Beckley having started the night previous for Cincinnati to be gone from some 8 or 10 days,during which time I intended to visit Bro.and Sis. Bates, friends in Jefferson County. I have been in about

12 miles of them already as I passed through Watertown on the way to this place.

8th Tuesday Got up this morning at 7 oclock, right side up among my friends, and I do feel to rejoice

and thank God that I can breathe a little natural climate once more. I feel that there is quite a work to

do in this place, whether I will be the happy instrument in the hands of the Lord to accomplish it, time



alone will develop. Wrote two letters through the day. This evening was occupied in answering

questions of a general nature about the church in Utah, during which time much good instruction was

given. I enjoyed a good degree of the Spirit of the Lord. At a late hour we, after prayers, retired to rest.

9th Wednesday I spent the a.m. at the house talking with the sisters. p.m. went up to the office after

which I took a walk down to the lake. The evening was occupied in discussing the merits of polygamy,during which some objected to the principle so far as they were concerned. So I referred to many of the

strongest points infavor of it. I think that a very good result will follow. One that listened did not belong

to the church who acknowledged that he did not see any inconsistency in it according to the Bible which

he had strong belief in. It is an easy thing to get along with people who will acknowledge a belief in the

Bible. Thus far I have passed the time very agreeable since I have been here, and I hope, if possible, it

will be more agreeable when Bro. and Sis. Beckley returns home.

10th Thursday I spent part of the day at the office of Bro. Beckley, and part at the house discussing

the gospel.

11th Friday The same.

12th Saturday The same. This evening at 7 oclock, Bro. and Sis. Beckley returned home. They were

pleased to see me. We did not retire till about 12 for a good reason.

13th Sunday a.m. I attended, in company with Bro. W. Coone, the Methodist church, after which I

took a ride around the city with Bro. Beckley in his cutter. The evening was agreeably spent in the girls

playing on the piano and singing. The rest of the time till near 12 was spent in answering questions

propounded by the folks here upon different parts of the gospel, very satisfactory to all, when we

retired to rest after prayers as usual every night.

14th Monday Visited Mr. Davis again today, who introduced me to a friend of his by the name of Jas.

H. Lockwood, who gave me money to send to Salt lake City to get him a Book of Mormon. Spent part of

the day at the gas office of Mr. Beckley talking with different persons upon the subject of Utah. This

evening I was visited by an unmarried lady by the name of Lucinda Clark who is very to learn something

of our religion, as she has not found any to suit her as yet. She seemed to be very will satisfied with my

talk thus far. She seems to be in earnest. After the rest of the family went to bed Bro. Beckley and

myself sit up and talked till 5 min. to 12.

16th Wednesday Wrote a letter to Bro. George Q. Cannon for the Book of Mormon for Mr.

Lockwood and also a paper for Bro. Beckley and I received a letter from home of 23 Feb. This p.m. I

wrote the following notice, which was published in the Journal.

Elder A.C. Brower, from Utah will deliver a free lecture at the Music hall on Friday evening, 18th, visit at

7 oclock.

This evening we talked until 11, when we retired in good order.



17th Thursday I spent part of the day at the office, being introduced to several strangers discussing

the Utah question, and the rest of the time at the house. Went to the Methodists prayer meeting this

eve after which we talked till after 11.

18th Friday as this was lecture evening, and as my lungs are not very strong I thought that I would

talk but little and read much. Bro. Beckley paid for the hall this morning, $6. There is quite a stir _____town today about the Mormon lecture, and I hope to have a full house. Everything is being done on

the part of Bro. and Sis. Beckley, as well as myself, to get the people to turn out. Much credit is due to

them. At the commencement of the lecture there were but a few, but they kept coming till there were a

middling good house. They all listened with good attention with but one exception, and rather than to

be put out of doors he stopped his noise. I spoke an hour and a half with freedom and good portion of

the Spirit of the Lord to assist me. Lecture again Wednesday next. After meeting we discussed the merits

of things till near 12, when after prayers, we retired.

19th Saturday I talked with several today, they seemed to be well satisfied with the lecture, and

promised to come next Wednesday to see the head and horns, as I told them I would lecture on

polygamy, which seems to be the all absorbing theme in this country. This a.m. I wrote a letter to my

family, also I sent a paper to Bro. Cannon containing quite a long communication upon Mormons, by

Mr. Davis, an infidel. This evening was occupied as usual, which was interesting.

20th Sunday We spent the day in discussing the principles of the gospel. We had the best visit of any

since my arrival in this place. This p.m. Bro. Beckley asked me how many wives I had, and upon telling

him, he gave me 50 cents a piece for them in silver, and told me to give it to them with his compliments

and best wishes and kind regards. Bro. B. enjoined upon me to tell the Saints and the authorities of the

Church, and especially Bro. Cannon, that he wanted in all cases to, when the Elders were coming to

Wisconsin, to come to his house and make it their home and that he would do all he could for them and

to assist and further them on their journey to preach the gospel. Bro. B. seems to be like Saul of Tarsus,

whose name is Paul, he desires to do all the good that he can, and I think that he will prove to be a

mighty man in Israel. He intends to close up his business and get to Zion as soon as he possibly can, And

I pray that that may be soon. This evening we went to hear a lecture from a Baptist elder on the

resurrection, and I must say that the fool killer had not done his duty or the elder would long since been

taken, I want none of it in mine. I would like to have spoken about 15 minutes, I think that through the

blessing of the Lord I could have enlightened their minds a little on that subject.

21st Monday Spent the a.m. with Bro. Beckley in visiting around town and being introduced to many

of the first men of that place, among whom was the mayor of the city. This p.m. I visited a man by the

name of Jones, an engineer who invited me to make him a visit at the next lecture which I gave on lastFriday eve. I had a very pleasant time with him. He is very friendly toward the Saints, and is going to

attend the lecture tomorrow eve on polygamy, which, if the Lord wills, I shall deliver. This eve I spent

with Bro. Beckley and family, after the family retired, him and myself set up till over 12 and talked about

the endowments to be given to all the faithful saints, which he was very anxious to be worthy to receive.

He talks, if he cannot sell out this spring, of visiting Utah some time this coming summer and make a

commencement and help build up Zion.



22nd Tuesday I spent most of the day in the office of Brother Beckley, received many instructions to

brother Masons by Brother Beckley, the masons are all very friendly. We occupied the evening till near

12 when we retired to bed.

23rd Wednesday This day I spent most of the time in the house, as I am to lecture in the evening on

the subject of polygamy, and I applied my mind to the subject. Brother Beckley got 1000 bills printedand had them circulated through the city, the consequence was that the large concert hall would not

hold much more than half of the people that turned out to hear. I lectured near two hours with great

freedom and a good portion of the Spirit of God. I spoke one hour on polygamy, and the rest of the time

on the resurrection and the reign of Christ upon the earth a thousand years, contrasting it with the

views of the different sects of the19th century. After the lecture was over the people donated $155 to

assist to pay the expense of the hall for two nights and the printing of the bills, which in all amounts to

over $15, which was settled by Brother Beckley. I had a visit today from Brother Oliphants son who lives

in this city. He seems to be a very good boy, but has joined the Episcopal Church, but he says that he

may some day change his mind and go back to Utah and make that place his home.

24th Thursday This a.m. at the office. This evening through the blessings of God I was enabled to

baptize six, two of which had been baptized before. They were baptized in a bathtub. In confirming I had

a full flow of the Spirit of God and we had a good time. I gave them the instruction that I deemed

necessary, after which I administered the sacrament to them. Brother Thomas Fipps gave me three

dollars to help me on way with. The names of the baptized were: Jesse Beckley, Wm. O. Coons, Cornelia

Coons, Thomas F. Fipps, Eliza Fipps and Miss Lucinda Clark.

25th Friday This morning I have a little headache, but I do not think it will last long. Brother Coons

gave me $2 this morning. Brother Beckely had me go to the tailors shop and had me measured for a suit

of clothes which cost $34. I wrote certificates of membership to those whom I had baptized and gave

them, and counseled them to go to Zion as soon as they possibly could, which they are very anxious to

accomplish. I can say that the Lord has blessed greatly, for which I feel to thank His name and praise His

holy name for. I had designed to leaving here today, but on account of the clothes I am compelled to lay

over till next Tuesday. We spent the evening very agreeable.

26th Saturday Spent most of the day in the office answering questions to different ones who I was

introduced to during the day. We were up this evening till after 12. Just before retiring Brother B. gave

me $45 in cash to help defray my expenses home, for which I feel very grateful to him and to my

Heavenly Father. After I retired to my room I poured out my soul in prayer and thanksgiving to my God

for the blessings which I had received, and wept like a child.

27th Sunday This a.m. I spent at the house till after diner, when Brother B. and myself took a walk

over town to see the place, after which we stopped at the gas office, during which time Brother B.

expressed his great desire to get his Endowment this summer if it would be approbated by the

authorities of Zion. Having sit up till very late for a few nights past, and being very tired, I retired to bed

a little before nine.



28th Monday In company with a few friends I spent the a.m. in the office giving all the information

concerning the people in Utah to them that I could. Mr. A.W. Reeder, one of them, is Mason, and is

very friendly toward us as people and does not sanction the course that congress is taking towards us as

a people. During the time the Saints were moving through Ohio in canal boats on their way to Missouri,

and stopping at Columbus to stay over Sunday, Mr. Reeder was the one that procured a place for the

Elders to preach in on that day, the house was full he said, and he said that he was well pleased with the

preaching. The other gentlemans name was Wedge, who was also well pleased with my remarks. He

talks of going to Utah in a few weeks, and from there to White Pines. Brother W. Coons made me a

present of a nice cap for me to wear home, for which I thanked him very kindly. Brother B. said that in as

much as the people in this city would select him as representative to congress next fall, he thought that

it would be a good plan for him to get that office, if it should be thought that he could be of service to

the Saints by so doing. I received my suit of clothes at 6 this evening and they are nice. This eve I went to

the theatre with Brother B. It was very good.

29th Tuesday All ready to start on the 10 oclock train. Cornelia Coons presented me with two new

shirts and an neck tie. I bid the folks good-bye, and took my leave. Brother Beckley paid my fair to La X[La Cross], but I had to stop and make a visit to Farmington to see T.O. Bates friends. I arrived at 4 p.m.,

all right, the folks were glad to see me.

30th Wednesday Visited among the friends, with but little prospects of conversion.

31st Thursday The same

April 1st Friday Started for La X where I arrived safe three hours time. We were detained by an earth

slide.

2nd Saturday Crossed the river this morning, and arrived at Winona at 10 p.m.

3rd Sunday I took the Buck Eye for Reeds Landing, it being the first boat of the season on account of

the ice running. We were till dark getting to Reeds Landing. Stopped at my nephews and niece who were

very glad to see me.

4th Monday This morning I wrote a letter home to my family, and one to Br. Beckley at Fond du Lac.

This p.m. I crossed over the river to my brother-in-laws where there was one letter from home and

several papers on hand for me.

5th Tuesday - Spent this a.m. in reading the papers. P.m. went to town and got a letter and a paper.

6th Wednesday Spent the day at home in hunting and fishing, caught one fish and one squirrel, and

enjoyed myself first rate.

7th Thursday - Wrote a letter to Chicago to have the money replaced to me that I had overpaid on my

passage to that place, which was over and above the amount contracted for by President Young with

the R.R. Co. I hope that I will get the money as I am short of means to go home with and every little

helps; it will be over $10. This p.m. I went to the post office. I sent one pound of Sweet Corn home for



seed. Spent the evening at Mr. Allens at Pepin. He has been investigating the principles of the gospel

since I was last there and is very favorable towards them, and was very anxious to know when I was

soon to baptize and I think that his object is to be baptized and I think that his wife, notwithstanding her

having been a spiritualists, will be baptized too. We spent the evening very pleasantly.

8th Friday Spent this a.m. at Mr. Allens. Took dinner at Mr. Bosleys. After which I started to makeMrs. S. Hicks another visit; stopped at Mr. Lockwoods, and spent a couple of hours with his wife

discussing the principles of the gospel. I would not be surprised to baptize her before I leave this place.

Arrived at Mr. Hicks just before dark. Talked till a late hour with them when we retired to bed.

9th Saturday I spent nearly all day with Mr. Hicks and family. He intends to be baptized before I

leave. But it is doubtful about his wife. Got back just before dark.

10th Sunday I had the pleasure of having another visit from Mr. Shane today, and also an accidental

visit from a lady who has been very bitter against the Saints, but she leaves with quite different feelings

as I have not the least doubt but what I shall baptize her before I leave. Also Mr. Shane, unless he is

influenced by some outside influence. I had a good time and much of the Spirit of the Lord upon me all

day and especially in the evening, during which time I read most of the Hoopers speech in congress

against the Cullom Bill. I call it star speech, and calculated to do much good to those who will read it.

11th Monday Sowed some wheat for Joshua, after which I wrote three letters; on to Cordelia, and

two to Ohio for Joshuas friends, and done some talking and reading all tending to do good.

12th Tuesday Sowed some more wheat for my friend.

13th Wednesday Sowed some more wheat, after which I went over the river to Mr. Whites and

stayed all night.

14th Thursday Mr. White and family came over in order to be baptized on next Sunday and are not

going back until after that time. This evening we discussed the principles of the gospel till bedtime when

we retired to rest.

15th Friday Sowed some more wheat this a.m. and gave my views of the gospel being a savor of life

until life or death unto death which they seemed to understand tolerable well. This p.m. I went to Mr.

Lockwoods stopped there most the p.m. From thence I went to Mr. S. Hicks to spend the night for the

last time while I stay in this country. Spent the evening very agreeable and not without good

impressions.

16th Saturday I stopped at Mr. Hicks till near noon, when I took my leave. Stopped at Mr.

Lookwoodss but on account of their having company I did not stay long. Towards evening I went to

Pepin. Got 2 letters, one from Chicago on the subject of an half price ticket from Rock Island to Omaho,

which is granted to me, and one from Br. Beckley of Fond du Lac. I stopped at Mr. Allens, stayed a short

time, when I came back home. I granted Mr. Allen the privilege to come and see me baptize, which he

was very thankful for. Spent the evening at home.



17th Sunday this p.m. is the time set for attending to the ordinance of baptizing. I baptized 4 to wit;

Joshua Bosley, Mirit N. White and Minerva White, his wife, and I also baptized Samuel Hicks; after which

I confirmed them and administered the Sacrament, and gave them such counsel as the Spirit directed,

and tied to impress upon them the necessity of adopting and keeping up their family prayers as well as

praying in secret. And I promised them if they were faithful that the way would open for them to be

gathered to Utah. I think that there are some others who will be baptized if I stay a week or ten days

longer, but I would like to get off in three or four days. My sister intends to be baptized before I leave

the country.

18th Monday Stopped at home this a.m. p.m. went to Pepin to visit with Mr. Allen again by

appointment and spent the evening very agreeable.

19th Tuesday This morning before leaving Mr. Allen told me that he was a Mormon at heart and

calculated to be in Utah in July if he lived so long. I proposed to him to be baptized, but on considering

upon it over night he said he would defer until he came to Utah. He is now closing up his business and is

trying to sell his property which cost him $15,000. And he says that he will sell it if he cannot get but

$2000. He is a man much respected and was a Colonel of the 16th Wisconsin volunteers and is now a

lawyer and justice of the peace. At 8 a.m. we . , blessed each other and I left. Spent the balance of

the day and evening at home.

20th Wednesday spent most of the day at home. P.m. I went up to the P.O. with my brother in law.

Got a letter from home and a paper from Slat Lake City. By brother in law borrowed $30 to defray the

expenses of my sister to Nebraska to visit her daughter.

21st Thursday This is on of the most pleasant mornings I ever saw. We arrived at Rock procured our

tickets for Rock Island on the 22nd me shipped at 8 a.m.

22 Friday, Saturday and until Sunday morning we were trendling down the river on the steamer

Musectine [?].

24 - Sunday as the cars did not fun on Sunday we were obliged to lay over till Monday morning.

25 Monday At 8:45 we took the car for Tock Island. They let me have a ticket at half price through

the kindness of Mr. E. St. Johns of Chicago. Arrived at Rock City at 12 at night.

26 Tuesday At 9:45 we again took the cars for the south to see our friend in Mills county. Got to

Frank sisters at 12:00 in the p.n. we went to Bens.

27 Wednesday This p.m. we went to Biron Browers, took supper and tarried all night.

28 Thursday Benj. Gunsolley and wife and Biron and ourselves that is my sister and myself took

wagons for Cordelias, where we arrived just before noon. Spent the day very agreeable at this place we

met an old acquaintance by the name of Hannah Faunce, a Mormon with _____ _____ knocked off. That

is one who does not believe in gathering tything [tithing] or polygamy; whish is lonely the shell of a

pumpkin without any meat in it.



29th Friday This morning all right. The morning hours were spent in letter writing. The p.m. spent in

talking with some neighbors, when my old friend Mr. John S. Ferris come to see me. He spent about two

hours, told of his search since I left for the north last fall. I went with him a short distance on is way

when we sat down and talked till about dark. I told him the necessity of being baptized for a remission

of his sins and receive the Holy Ghost and that if he wanted to preach I would ordain him an Elder. He is

coming to Utah in July to make that place his home for the future and as we were about to part he

embraced and kissed me two or three times and of course I returned the compliment and I told him that

it was a holy kiss and he went off with tears in his eyes saying that he would see me again before I left

for home.

30th Saturday Spent most of the day in walking over my brothers old place. The dog (_____) and

myself caught a squirrel. It seemed very much like old times when I was a boy living in the states. This

evening my sister-in-law made me a present of a ten dollar bill saying that it was the widows mite for

which I thanked her very kindly and told her that God would bless those who helped His Elders.

May 1st Sunday We all went over to Mr. Hutchins, his coming after us with his carriage and made

them a visit. Returned home about five p.m. where I had a long talk with Mr. Kirkpatrick; ;he is still

inquiring and promised to see me again.

2nd Monday Spent the day at home in trying to find ____ ____ hens nest so that I might get a

setting of eggs to bring home.

3rd Tuesday The same without success

4th Wednesday We had company but they had no inclination to talk.

5th Thursday A rainy day. Spent my time in reading and writing.

6th Friday at home

7 Saturday at home

8 Sunday started for Nebraska

19 Thursday Returned from Neb. Had a very good visit and I trust had a lasting impression upon their

minds, promising me that they would further investigate the principles I had taught them as our

doctrine was something so different from what newspapers had reported it to be that they were quite

surprised. Received a letter from home and also one from Bro. Beckley of Fond du Lac containing a $30

Post Office Order to defray my expenses home with and I can say God bless him.

20 Friday at home. Wrote two letters and visited with Mr. Hutchins.

21st Sunday Cordelia A. Brower, my sister in law, gave me $5. On a previous occasion she gave me

$10and also $ ___ for which I feel very thankful. I think in all I have now enough to see me home.



22nd Monday Went to Genwood and had my watch repaired and strolled by my brothers old place

and bid it a farewell, at least for the present.

23rd Tuesday This a.m. at 5 I started for Glenwood in company with J. Hutchins. On my return to

Utah, leaving my blessing upon all who have assisted me in word, clothing or money to preach the

gospel, and I can truly say that my wants have been truly cared for by my friends since I arrived in thisplace last fall and may the Lord bless them according to their liberality is my prayer, in the name of Jesus

Christ, amen. Took the cars at 7 a.m. Left Omaha at 1 p.m. had a very pleasant time in crossing the

plains to Ogden, where I arrived at 4 p.m. Thursday the 25th at 5. Took an excursion train for S.L.City at

5 and before 7 p.m. was in S.L.C.

26 Visited Pres. B.Young and the historians office. Reported myself O.K. Was received very kindly by

the President and the Priesthood generally who welcomed me back and seemed to be well satisfied with

my lavors.

27 Took the morning train for Odgen. My team arrived at Ogden which I previously telegraphed for,

arrived and was soon on my way again for home where I arrived on the evening of the 28 and was

welcomed by my family who were very glad to see me return in peace and safety and felt to thank the

Lord for the privilege I had had of going on a mission and preaching the gospel.

Documents

Ariah Coates Brower Mission Journal