Victor LeCheminant

Victor LeCheminant is the twin brother to Victoria
LeCheminant Anderson. I had the privilege
many years ago to visit his curious house he built
out of pioneer trash (or treasure depending on your point
of view). The story of his house high above Salt Lake
City was built by years of “picking” out in the desert
with such things as glass and antiques that had been
bleached by the sun to give it an iridescent rainbow
effect. Once he found a stone that looked just like
Abraham Lincoln. An entire wall was made of colored
wine bottles with the bottom facing in and the neck
protruding to the outside allowing light to brighten up
the wall in a type of stained glass effect. He took great
pride in large pieces of cedar tree stumps and limbs that
he polished and sealed with varnish to produce a glass
top coffee table, bowls and various lamps. As a child I
was fascinated by his large jar of old marbles of various
colors and sizes which, no doubt, was played by pioneer
youngsters in their new home following their trek across
the plains. Likewise, the many broken porcelain dolls
must have brought great happiness to the pioneer girls so
many years ago.  He was always quite an adventurer. He
helped build the Boulder Dam in Nevada. He had three
sons. This was through the first marriage to Viola. He
tried his luck at inventing. Whatever he liked to do he
would go ahead and do it. He said that he considered
himself an artist and his house was his art. Today it is
questionable as to whether the house has survived
modern-day progress since Wasatch Boulevard is a
main thoroughfare going into the Salt Lake Valley.– J.D.

Victor LeCheminant

Victor LeCheminant, son of Peter J. and Martha Hayes LeCheminant, was born March 24, 1889, in Pleasant Green (now Magna), Utah.  He was baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints May 27, 1897.  He was a high priest, member of a ward bishopric, served in ward M.I.A. presidency, and served two home missions.  He was a high school graduate, enjoyed working in rock, wood and driftwood, and was a building supervisor.  He married Viola Segrid Soderlund December 24, 1915, in Salt Lake City, Utah, later solemnized in the Salt Lake Temple January 25, 1923.  Victor and Viola were the parents of four children:  Viola Selma (premature child born and died July 30, 1916, in Pleasant Green, Utah), Victor Hugo, Lavaur Royd, Lincoln Clair.  He later married Helen Nelson Murray, a widow, December 20, 1945, in Salt Lake City, Utah. He died October 31, 1971.

---

Deseret News Article
November 2, 1958

Rock Collector’s Delight
His Home Is Conversation Piece

Victor LeCheminant has built himself a house by the side of the road and he’s friendly with anyone who wants to stop and see it.

Many people do, because it’s a most unusual house.  Almost the entire home, inside and out, is covered with mosaic patterns of stones and pieces of old china he has been collecting for years.

During the past four years since his retirement, Mr. LeCheminant has been building the little house himself at 5600 Wasatch Blvd.

Conversation Piece

While some people have a conversation piece in their house, his whole home is a conversation piece.  His living room is a rock, china, desert glass, or root collector’s delight.

The bottom half of the walls from the floor up are in sections of hundreds of different kinds of stone or rocks.  From midway up to the ceiling the walls are sections with bits of broken plates, cups and other china set in mosaic patterns.

Over the doorway leading from the kitchen to the living room is the “farm section.”  This has bits of china with pictures of animals on them – dogs, cats, horses, the cow jumping over the moon.

Fascinating Heads

Another fascinating section is a small square with seven little doll heads set into the cement.

One can almost read the whole history of the country in bits of picture plates showing the statue of liberty, the signing of the Declaration of Independence, a stagecoach, ships and countless floral patterns.

A gorgeous fireplace, inlaid with stones, of course, has on the mantel two large, beautiful polished roots, one manzanita with one end shaped like a deer head and the other a gnarled piece with a large stone still entrapped as the root had grown around it.

Mosaic Patterns

Even the kitchen, bathroom and bedroom of the small home have their walls at least partially done in the mosaic patterns.

In one corner of the living room sits a lovely table which Mr. LeCheminant made from a huge old tree root.  It won a prize at the last Utah State Fair in the driftwood division.

There’s no end to his talents.  He’s made a lamp using the slender tubes of seltzer bottles to hold different colored bits of glass.  The light glows through the bottles and colored glass.

Collection of Marbles

Mr. LeCheminant has had hundreds of visitors who couldn’t resist stopping and asking about his unusual house.  He’s glad to show them around.  One New York couple recently sent him some colored pictures they took of his house.

He knows some people think his home might be a little strange.

“I stand at the door after they leave and listen,” he said, cupping his hand to his ear, “and if they say, ‘I think he’s lost his marbles, I can call them back and show them this . . .”

And he lifts a bowl filled with marbles off a stand and says, “I’ve got all mine, but here are some I’ve picked up that other people lost.”

But if people think his hobby is strange now, they would really have raised their eyebrows during his collecting years.

He kept all the pieces of stone, rock, china and glass in bushel baskets in the basement of his home in town at 1220 S. 8^th East.

He had nearly 50 basketsful that he’d collected from old mining camps, ghost towns and city dumps in Utah, Nevada and Colorado when he started to build his new home.

He estimates there are at least 5,000 pieces of china in the house now.  But the number of rocks is anyone’s guess.

Victor LeCheminant, (and probably one of his sons)

Obituary

Victor LeCheminant, 1226-8th East, Oct. 31 [1971] of natural causes in a Salt Lake rest home.  Born March 24, 1889, Pleasant Green, Salt Lake County to Peter J. and Martha Hayes LeCheminant.  Married Viola Segrid Soderlund Dec. 24, 1915; she died Oct. 24, 1944.  Married Helen Nelson Murray, Dec. 29, 1945. Artist, rock and wood sculpture, house builder.  High Priest, 31st LDS Ward. Survivors: widow; sons, Victor H., Lavaur R., Lincoln C., Salt Lake City; 17 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren. Funeral Wednesday 11 a.m., 31st LDS Ward Chapel, 9th East and Princeton Ave.  Friends call Tuesday 6-8 p.m. 4670 Highland Dr., Wednesday at ward chapel prior to services.  Burial Wasatch Lawn Cemetery.

Victor and Viola

Victor and son Lavaur

Son Victor Hugo, Edith, Viola & Victor

Remembering A.J. Anderson – by Victoria Le Cheminant Anderson

One of life’s greatest challenges is the passing of a spouse.  Here is an intimate look at an amazing pioneer couple, Andrew and Victoria Anderson.  Previously, we have spent a fair amount of time exploring their lives and knew them both to be hard working and totally devoted to their children.  They were sealed in the Salt Lake Temple in 1908 making this year their 111^th wedding anniversary.  Victoria spent 21 years as a widow and expressed her time apart from Andrew in poetry showing her deep sadness at their separation.  Andrew died of cancer at the age of 72 and Victoria similarly died of cancer at the age of 78.  Death separated them for a time but they were never very far apart from each other in thought and in spirit.  The account of A Special Visitor found below confirms this.   A final poem, How Precious Time written by Victoria, reminds us to not take for granted the time that we have been given and to make the most of our lives while we are still here.  My only thought is, thanks Grandma and Grandpa for sharing your stories and lives with us, your posterity.  Perhaps learning of their hardships that they endured and still finding joy all along the way can be inspiration for us as we experience our own challenges in life.
“For God has put us here to know
The bitter and the sweet
So let’s radiate with sunshine
When we another meet” – VLC
J.D.

One of the greatest blessings that came to me was being blessed with one of God’s chosen young men as my companion. In the early part of the year of 1908 I met the man who was to become my husband for time and eternity. Andrew had just returned from filling a mission to his native land, Sweden.

After a courtship of nearly a year, we were married November 26, 1908 in the Salt Lake Temple by John Rex Winder who, at that time, was first counselor to President Joseph F. Smith. The greater part of our married life, Andrew was employed as a carpenter foreman at the Utah Copper Mills in Magna.

To us were born nine children. Great sorrow came into our home with the passing of our last baby, Andrew John Jr. (Buddy Boy) who was with us for only six months. Having been reared in a happy Latter-Day Saint home and large family, the children learned to share freely. They participated in the Church, school and civic activities. The death of my mother at an early age helped me to assume more freely the responsibilities of marriage as I had learned self-sacrifice and hard work. Both my husband and I gave much of our time promoting the church.

Today our children are living from coast to coast. The fond memories they have of the home they were reared in and their parent’s teachings has been a guide for good in their lives. They and their families are all held in high esteem in the respective towns in which they live.

Fond Memories
Fond memories are the jewels that sparkle in the brooch of time.

Dawn of Day
The sun slowly rises in the Eastern sky
‘Tis the dawn of another day.
The days are oh! so lonely
Since you went away.

In Memory
The sun sinks slowly to the West
‘Tis the eve of New Year’s Day
I’m thinking of the happy times
Before you went away.
An Old Sweetheart of Yours

You
You were always sweet and lovely
To everyone so dear,
And when we meet together near
How we wish that you were here.

In Memory of My Sweetheart
We carved two hearts upon a tree
One for you, the other for me
Many years have passed
Since we were there
Beside me is an empty chair
Tho’ the days that have passed
Have been lonely and sad
My memory goes back
To the joy we have had
My love for you is still the same
My faith in God, will always remain
V.L.C.A.

Memory
They say that time erases
Absent faces
From the memory of the heart;
That always years will dry
The tears,
Cleanse the memory’s better part.
There must be some,
Perhaps but one,
Lone place where nature slips,
For still at night
I awaken with
Your Daddy’s name upon my lips.

The Picture on the Mantel
His voice was oh! so pleasant
His advice was always good.
Telling what we should not do
And the many things we should.

The days tho’ full are lonely.
The nites are always long
But the kindly look
Upon his face
Turns sorrow into song.

Here near the Temple of the Lord
We reared our family seven.
Here’s where the work
That we must do,
To again all meet in heaven.

He’s there, still watching over us,
With a true, abiding love
Like an ever guiding light
From the realms above
Praying that we here below
Will cleave unto the right.

A Special Visitor
A friend of Victoria’s, who was an elderly gentleman, belonged to the same social club as Victor and Victoria. Both he and Victoria had each lost their mate.  One day, he suggested that they live together in their old age and get married.

Before Andrew had died he told her that if anyone comes into her life, to go ahead and marry and not be lonely.  This bothered her a great deal all that day and kept her awake that night.  She got up and went to the living room to sit.  As she sat there in the night, she looked up and saw Andrew. He wasn’t on the floor but in the air.  What surprised her was that he wasn’t dressed with his temple clothes on, but rather was dressed in his everyday work clothes.  He said to her, “Mother, you do what you think is best, but you will always be mine.”

In her telling her children, she asked if it could have been a dream, but she knew she was awake.  She knew that she had seen her Andy.

… She never did remarry.

How Precious Time
Twenty, thirty, forty years
How time doth slip away
Time is Gods most precious gift
We cannot bid it stay

Life has many happy days
Our hearts are young and glad
Tho’ we all must bravely take our share
Of the lonely and the sad

Let’s reap our share of joy while here
By kindly deeds to others
Our sorrows fade, our joys grow great
By sharing with another

Life deals to all a justly part
Of the precious things we love
If we but keep our hearts in tune
And seek guidance from above

For God has put us here to know
The bitter and the sweet
So let’s radiate with sunshine
When we another meet (or)
While we Christ’s gospel teach

The sun will shine, the clouds will pass
They are not here to stay
And when the shadows have gone by
We’ll feel heavens Golden Ray.
Victoria L. Anderson

P.S.  This came to me one morning 2 weeks ago and by 9 o’clock a.m. I had it all written.

A.J. Anderson – Journal Entries

A journal is a window for the living to get a peek at the life of someone who is no longer with us.  It has been an interesting journey to see the life of my grandfather A.J. Anderson, whom I have never met.  The first excerpt is a campout he took with friends or family up into the American Fork Canyon here in Utah which is the beginning of the Alpine Loop around Mt. Timpanogas with its majestic peaks and beautiful aspens.  The story has a surprise and I thought it interesting that he didn’t disclose that discovery until everyone was safely home.  I included all 4 attempts to write this story to demonstrate how hard he worked at perfecting his English.  The next entry records an account of the Gift of Tongues received by a Geo. O. Noble in 1902 but recorded 2 years later.  This gift today is very prevalent with missionaries going to foreign countries.  It is interesting that one person spoke while yet another was able to interpret.  Another experience that Grandpa Anderson recorded was President Wilford Woodruff expounding on the last days which we are all a part of and are witnessing some of those prophecies today.  He records his entry as 1904.  And finally he recorded the dedication of the land of Japan which was a significant step for the Church at the time.  If you have a further interest in this event, compare Grandpa’s journal entry with Alma Taylor who was there on September 1, 1901:  https://josephsmithfoundation.org/account-of-dedication-of-the-land-of-japan-by-heber-j-grant/

A Trip to American Fork Canyon (Practicing English)

(Account #1)
Taking a great deal of interest in the mountain scenery and the beauty of nature I always, whenever possible during the summer, take a trip up in the canyons.  Of course everything that you see there is not beauty.  This I found to be true on this particular trip on which I am about to speak.

On the 24^th of June, two years ago this summer, a party consisting of 12 persons, myself included, went through the American Fork Canyon for the purpose of feasting upon nature’s magnificent scenes. 

After having filled our wagon almost full of various things, our journey was begun, and upon reaching our destination about 2 o’clock p.m., I took care of the horses.

Our destination reached about 2 p.m.  We pitched the tent which we brought for the ladies while they were busily engage in preparing refreshment which, after being ready, was enjoyed much.  The remainder of the afternoon and evening was spent in singing songs by the youth while the older ones would relate their experiences.

That party finally retired and was soon fast asleep, myself excepted of course, sleeping in the open air where I was somewhat uneasy.  This was due to the fact that I began to think of the various kinds of wild animals for which this canyon is noted and as we boys, together with the rest of the boys, were sleeping in the open air.  This increased my fear considerably.  I did not miss my calculations very far.  Presently, I heard a very strange noise.  I threw the cover from off my head only to find what I had been thinking about, a huge bear less than twenty-five feet from where I was and looking strait at me.  How I felt is inexpressible.  Bruno left however, as guilty as he came and so did my sleep that night and not until we reached home did I tell of my experience.

(Account #2)
Being a lover of all that which is beautiful, especially in scenes of nature, I always, whenever possible, take a trip up in the canyons during the summertime.  Of course everything that you can see there in the canyon mountains is not beautiful.  This I found to be true on this particular trip on which I am about to speak.

On the 24^th of June 2 years ago this summer, I went, together with a few of a company consisting of 8 in all, myself included, went on a  pleasure trip through the American Fork Canyon.  We started ..

(Account #3)
About 2 years ago I ..

..to the first destination about 4 o’clock in the afternoon.  We boys pitched the tent while the girls were preparing lunch, which, when ready, we enjoyed exceedingly.  The remainder of the afternoon was spent in taking in the sights.  Evening was spent in singing and music and various gems till about 11 o’clock when I suggested we had better retire to the tent and the boys were to sleep on the grass.  About 20 minutes, all but myself were asleep when I suddenly discovered a huge bear not more than 20 feet where I was and looking strait at me.

(Account #4)
Being a lover of that which is beautiful, especially in the scenes of nature, I always, whenever an opportunity presents itself, take a trip up in the canyons during the summer time.  Of course there are lots of …

I thought my last hour had come and how I felt you can know-doubt imagine.  Bruno left however as guilty as he came.  I slept not a wink that and not until we reached home did I tell my experience.

Composition May 12, 1903
A.J. Anderson

 

A Sacred Account of the Gift of Tongues

Sunday, December 7, 1902
Lehi Fast Meeting
Brother Geo. O. Noble of Salt Lake attended our meeting upon which occasion Bro. Chas. Barnes spoke in tongues and Bro. James Kirkham interpreted it as follows:

Thus saith the Spirit, ye Saints of God lift up your hearts and rejoice for the Lord is pleased with many that are here today in your fastings and prayers before him and he will shower down many choice blessings upon you inasmuch as you continue to put your trust in him and do all in your power to build up Zion by bringing in your tithes and offerings that there may be meat in my storehouse and help establish righteousness in the earth.  Snows shall be stored in the mountains and grass shall grow on the hills and the parched ground shall be moistened by the dews of heaven and the trees and vines shall yield their rich fruits in the time and season thereof and the earth will yield in abundance for your comfort and support and my people shall rejoice and be blessed in very deed inasmuch as they will seek after me and be diligent in keeping all my commandments.  I will open the windows of heaven and pour out its choice blessings upon you that there will hardly be room to retain them and you shall wield a might power and influence in the earth for good and inasmuch as you will live like unto me sickness and disease shall be banished far from you.  Verily I say unto you the time is near at hand when my beloved Son shall reign on the earth and blessed indeed are they that are preparing themselves to meet him when He comes for they shall arise and shine and no power shall stay their hand and all things shall work together for their good.  Amen.

Lehi, Utah
December 29, 1904   
Andrew J. Anderson

 

Important Announcement by President Wilford Woodruff in Brigham City Tabernacle, June 24^th.

Much interest has been created among the Saints by an announcement made last Sunday, June 24^th at a large meeting held in B.C. Tabernacle by President Woodruff.  It was to the effect that the angels who had been designated and set apart to execute the Judgements of God upon the nations had already left the temples in Heaven and had come down to the earth to perform their work which would continue from this time onward until the coming of Christ.

Two conditions are here included – elemental disturbances and disturbances and uprisings and commotions among the hosts of men.  Under the first are earthquakes, cyclones, tornadoes, hurricanes, great noises and groanings in the bowels of the earth.  Terrible destructions upon he rivers and oceans, tidal waves which will rush inland and submerge great tracts and sweep every living thing from the face thereof, hailstorms, peculiar diseases, deafening thunders and blinding lightnings.

Lehi, December 29, 1904
Andrew J. Anderson

Dedication of the Land of Japan

September 1^st, 1901 was the day the Apostle Heber J. Grant, Elders Kelsch, Horace S. Ensign and Alma O. Taylor went into the woods at Yokahama and dedicated the land of Japan for the proclamation of the Gospel.

In order to celebrate the day in a fitting manner and enjoy, if possible, another outpouring of the Spirit similar to the one experienced two years ago.

The entire group of missionaries now laboring in Japan left Tokyo, Japan on the 10:50 train in the morning and winded their way to the hill near Yokahama which, because of its associations with the dedicatory services had become sacred to them all.

We arrived at the secluded spot shortly after noon and after a few moments rest began the exercises of our anticipated meeting.

Sing – We Thank Thee O God for a Prophet, etc.
Prayer by Elder Horace S. Ensign
Singing – Now Let Us Rejoice in the Day of Salvation, etc.

President Heber J. Grant expresses pleasure at being present.  Referred to the time when the four elders who first came to Japan were strangers in a strange land.  They were not familiar with the customs of the people, opposed by the papers, refused lodging at a boarding house and in every way opposed by those who wanted and tried to get them prohibited from preaching in Japan.  Spoke of the particular bitter attitude of the Japan mail.  The editor of which willfully lied about them and their position towards the doctrine of polygamy, which doctrine President Grant had personally assured him they did not intent to preach or promulgate.  Elder H.S. Ensign said this mind went back to the meeting held on the same spot two years before and he recalled the prayers and supplication which were offered up on that occasion for the success of the work here.  He referred to the mighty power of the dedicatory prayer offered by President Grant and the remarkable way in which it affect him.

Spoke of the shaking of the earth at the time the City of Enoch was taken into Heaven and asserted that the actual shaking of the earth could be felt.  To prove this he related an incident which came under his observation while on his mission in Colorado.  Said myself – Apostle John W. Taylor and two others were travelling along the road when Apostle Taylor had a revelation in which it was shown to him that one of the brethren was to be a savior in his father’s house.  This brother had witnessed his father’s excommunication from the Church long before. 

Upon Apostle Taylor’s suggestion, the company stopped upon the top of a summit which lay on chain road and there knelt in prayer facing the Temple.  Apostle Taylor being mouth, the Holy Ghost descended upon him and under its influence he prophesied many things that should come to pass and many of his predictions have been literally fulfilled.  Among other things he predicted the war between the United States and Spain and the manner of its beginning.  The ground around the kneeling brethren shook perceptibly.

The same power and influence of the Lord was manifested on the occasion of dedicating this land.

President Grant asked God’s blessing on Bro. Joseph H. Felt who had been an instrument in the hands of the Lord in touching the hearts of Elder Hodges.

Brother Felt is a man of sweet spirit and possessed with power to turn the wayward of men into God.  When Elder Hedges was speaking his voice sounded like the voice of Brother Felt and seemed as through Brother Felt was present with us.  Invoked God’s choice blessing upon the parents and relatives of the Elders.  Prophesied that the blessings of Heaven would rest upon the elders and they be filled with the Spirit of the Lord to which end he blessed them in the name of Jesus Christ and in the authority of the Melchizedek Priesthood as President Grant pronounced these blessings, the Spirit of the Lord rested upon him in rich abundance and we were filled with joy and gratitude.

Singing – God Moves in a Mysterious Way, His Wonder to Perform etc.
Benediction
Lehi, Utah, December 29, 1904
Andrew J. Anderson

 

A.J. Anderson – Swedish Poetry/Lyrics

Below are some examples of existing Swedish songs or poems that my grandfather, A.J. Anderson, copied around 1905 as he was about to depart on his 2 year mission to Sweden.  While on his mission he acquired a guitar to practice and loved singing.  These tunes, roughly translated by myself, were perhaps sung and even practiced on the guitar prior to his leaving.  His mind must certainly have been on missionary work and his desire to share the gospel message with the people of his home country.  The first is Evangelic Fiskare Sång [Evangelical Fishing Song] which is about being fishers of men with interesting analogies.  Coincidentally, six days after he wrote down these lyrics, he became a U.S. citizen on January 7, 1905 and three days later was set apart as a missionary on January 10th.  Also note the letters over some of the words, such as a G over Jag [I] and the C over dagen [day] which are the chords on the guitar.  The next song, Uppå Stranden af Den Stilla Floden [Upon the Shores of the Still River] is a touching song or poem, about someone’s mother and is now 10,000 miles away (or so far away that she can’t be visited).  Finally, Genom Telephon [By Phone] are lyrics or words of a little girl (min lilla fe [my little fairy]) asking why her dad is so sad.  The story is fanciful, humorous and yet, poignant.  Perhaps during this time Andrew was thinking of his father who had passed away just four years before in January of 1901.   One final song he wrote down in Swedish (not included) is Solsken [There is Sunshine in My Soul Today] –J.D.

Evangelic Fishing Song

1.
I want to go out, I want to go out, before the day is over
Should I be fishing again,
Should I sit here, when so many ask
To hear about the sinner’s friend?
No, oh no, I want to go out with the brothers,
Fishermen are few.

Fishers of Men

2.
Everything is ready before, I throw out the net
The working time can soon be over,
Then listen to someone who can, we must now as a man
Strong work everything we do;
Now is the morning’s moment, fish in the depth and on the ground,
hurry out, hurry out on the blue.

3.
Still, it is still in the sea bay, but soon the storm can erupt again;
Therefore hurry up! Who is most diligent now,
The reward comes from work after all.
Grab your hand and draw the net inland
Full of fishes on the beach of salvation.

4.
Delight in truth these fishermen received,
Eating out of the Evangelical net.
The one in the faith endures, receives, when the day is over,
The great reward of our God receive.
Therefore, hurry; calmly, sew the net also,
Soon to rest you are called to go!

5.
If the day be long, sing your fisherman’s song,
And pull the net with force, once again.
Oh, how puzzling to see that a net can give
Fishermen a hundred and fifty-three!
Both old and young, pray, work and sing,
and glorify the Lord our King!

Lehi, Jan. 1, 1905
AJ Anderson

Upon the Shore by the Still River

1.
Upon the shore by the still river ten thousand miles from here I have a dear mother whose dark hair has become gray.  I blame myself.  O how I long to see my mother there on the shore of the still river ten thousand miles from here. If I was a small bird I would fly so far from here to the shore of the still river ten thousand miles from here.

Calm River

2.
At night in a vision I dreamed I saw that she was bowing down and she hid a tear in her eye.  She prayed to God for me.  But by daylight I awake.  How can I think of my mother now as I sit ten thousand miles from here?

3.
One day I received a letter from my sister.  She was talking about my mother but oh if she were here.  It is said she is laid in the grave and therefor on the beach of the still river ten thousand miles from here.

4.
My heart wanted to burst because death is now my mother’s farewell.  It was the last time when I left home.  But in time I will see my mother on the new earth where the Lord himself will rule with the word of God.

By Phone

1.
Daddy, why are you sad, asked my little fairy? Since mother went to heaven, you never want to laugh. I shall call mother’s home by calling the Throne of Heaven. Wait, I shall speak only by phone — Hello Central!  If I get heaven where my mother is and she is at the same number as the angels of God, she will want to talk to me.  I certainly know that there is no shame calling her at home since she passed away.

My Little Fairy

2.
The young lady at the Central Station hears this little speech, her tender heart beating.  She probably understands the child’s anguish. I want to answer her.  Mother hurries to you from far away.  Kiss me mother! Kiss your loved one by calling on the telephone.  Hello Central! etc.

A.J. Anderson’s Missionary Journal – Part IV

This concludes A.J. Anderson’s journal entries covering the two years he served in the Swedish Mission of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, from January 10, 1905 until he departed from Liverpool, England on February 8, 1907.  Andrew was called as a missionary by the First Presidency, Joseph F. Smith, John R. Winder, and Anthony H. Lund.  Afterwards he was appointed to the Skåne Conference by Christian D. Fjeldsted, President of the Scandinavian Mission and released by Peter Matson, President of the Swedish Mission [pictured below].  I never knew my grandfather since he died of cancer the year before I was born in 1946.  But have come to know him in part by the journal he kept while serving a mission in Sweden.  I have come away impressed that at his young age he saw the necessity of doing genealogy and understood the importance of temple work.  He faithfully visited many people, delivering tracts and selling copies of the Book of Mormon as was the practice then.  He studied daily and became proficient in public speaking.  His responsibilities including the collecting of tithes and other financial matters of individuals and the Church.  Daily he would retire to a grove of trees or a secluded place by the sea to commune with God.  He was intrigued by the sights of Sweden as well as appreciated a “fine day” weather-wise.  Somewhere along the way he acquired a guitar which he practiced right up to his voyage back to America.  He took all of these things with him and left a legacy of service and friendship with members and “outsiders” as he called them.  [Note the map below of the many places he served.] –J.D.

1906

Monday July 2 (Stockholm, Sweden)

At 11 a.m. a priesthood meeting was held.  All elders being called upon to bear their testimonies, there being somewhere about 55 or 60 elders present.  President Ballif of the German Mission, Pres. Nibly, Nephi Anderson, editor for Millenial Star and Pres. P. Mattson and Grant spoke to the elders, the latter imparting valuable instructions.  A concert was held in the evening.  I did not attend it, however.  Slept with Rex Pherson at Svartensgatan No. 3 [Stockholm].

July 4

Drottingholm Palace

 

Several of us took a trip to Drottingholm by S.S. Tuffi.  Round trip was 1.00 there.  We went through a palace where King Oscar spends his vacation in the later part of the summer.  It was very elaborate and interesting.  We tipped our guide 12 öre each.  We strolled around on Drottingholm and enjoyed it much.   On leaving we took some lemonade and cakes 41 öre each and left 3:15 p.m. arriving in Stockholm 30 minutes later.  On the way I had the pleasure of seeing what is known as “Kungshatt”, an iron pole is standing on a rounding cliff with an iron hat upon it to mark the place where a Swedish king once escaped from his enemies, they only getting the hat. 

Kungshatt (The King’s Hat)July 7

I left Stockholm at 12 Noon for Mölltorp and Frökarr, my birthplace.  Arrived about 10 p.m.  Distributed 3 tracts on the train.

July 8

I took a stroll out on my onkels [uncle] August Hansson’s farm. He was herding his 2 cattle.  Wrote a letter home and had 4 conversations.

July 9

I took a woke to Karlsborg and there saw Anna Johanson, a cousin of mine.  She worked on Karlborg Hotell.  She treated on a glass of lemonade.  I then took a walk to Rödesund where I met and boarded S.S. Juno.  Ingelström Hilma Söfstrom and Pierson were aboard.  I went with them to Forsvik where I took a walk to the old flour mill.  Went in a bakery and got a bottle of lemonade and some cakes whereupon I continued my journey to Frökärr, arriving quite late.

July 10

I helped my uncle to grind some sythes [scythes].  Visited Augusta Larson and her daughter Helga.  I promised them I would send my photos and Helga would send hers to me.  I went for to see Eva Petterson but they had all gone to a mission house known as “Kärra Missoushus” [Dear Mission House] and I went there also where I listened to a preacher from the Swedish Mission Society, on Karl Jonsson frön [from]Kärret was there.  I introduced myself and told him what my mission was.  He would not have anything to do with me however, when he found me to be a Mormon.  Eva treated on supper and was very kind.

July 13

I took a walk from Mosshult to Mölltorp and continued to Vältå where I saw Anders.  I also had the pleasure of seeing an old sofa [sofa] he bought from my mother when she emigrated to America.  This sofa I used to sleep on as a boy.  I also saw a sleigh he had bought from her.  It was made by my father and was well preserved.

Swedish Sleigh

He, Anders i [from] Vältå, thought the world of the sleigh as it was so easy running.  I also had a good conversation with him.  Left for Frökarr in the evening.  I visited Olansa in Skagerud.  They treated on saft and cakes.

July 14

I visited Augusta Sundquist.  Had a good conversation with her.  I visited Anna Johanson to Lindgrens.  She with her mother is related to A.G. Johnson in Lindon.  The old lady’s name is Beata Larson in Skallhult and is a sister to A.G. Johnson’s mother (Jona Gumma).  Her daughter Anna Johanson is wife to Alfred Johanson.  He used to be the gardener in Huntzgården.  She treated on milk and cakes.  I also had a conversation with her on the gospel.  Visited Augusta Larson, a sister in the covenant.  She treated on dinner after which I returned to Aug. Hansson and prepared to leave for Töcksfors.  I stayed over nights mostly to Hanson’s, my uncle and had many good conversations with them.  I left Frökarr about 1 p.m.  I bought a ticket to Herrljunga arriving 6:45 where I stayed over night to one Mörk.  Price was 75 öre.  Mörk was a painter.  His place was opposite the depot.

July 16

After having taken a cup of milk and some cakes, I proceeded to Östergård which is about 4 English miles north of Töcksfors but found the place without any difficulty.  I inquired about Anders and Emil Erickson as they were the ones of Andrew Fjeld relatives I desired to see first.  She showed me where both of them lived.  I went to Emil’s house first, that being the nearest.  He was out in the field mowing hay but Anders was there grinding a scythe.  Upon me introducing myself, Alma Johanson, who was turning the grindstone, called Emil up to the house.  He invited me to come in and Alma and his sister Josephina prepared dinner.  They all lived in the house in which Andrew Fjeld’s mother was born.  Had long conversation with all of them during the day.  In the evening I went to Ander’s place where I remained during my stay, that is as far as lodging is concerned.  Heard the coko or “joken” [cuckoo bird] in the evening.

July 18

Was in Östergård all day.  Visited Hilda Olson and Mina Svenson both relatives to Andre Fjeld.  They both received me very good and treated on milk and cakes while the latter treated on saft and cakes.  Also had a good conversation with her and her husband Adolph. I also invited them as well as all people in Östergård to attend a meeting I had arranged for in the home of Anders Erickson.  Mina however expressed fear of attending out meeting.  I held the meeting at 8:45 p.m.  The house was full of both men, women and children and a good spirit prevailed.

July 20

It was rather stormy weather, but I left Östergård for Kristiania 8:30 a.m. but owing to the difficulty of travel, I had to walk about 18 kilometers to a place called Örje in norge [Norway].  To make that road a little shorter A. Erickson rowed me over a small lake.  He was quite moved when I parted with him.  I got a ride part of the way to Örje which cost me 75 öre.  Arrived Örje 11:30 a.m.  I had dinner and took the stage to Mysen, a distance of 28 kilometer.  Fare was 2.00.  Arrived 5:30 p.m.  Took a lunch for 30 öre.  Took the train to Kristiania.  Fare was 2.05.  Had a good conversation with the stage driver and a passenger.  The weather was changeable and cold all day.  Arrived Kristiania 9:25 p.m.  Went to LDS office Osterhausgade 27.  The passenger referred to above showed me the way.  I stayed in the office.  That is, I slept there during my stay in Kristiania.

July 22

I attended Sunday School in the morning held in the big hall.  After dinner in the steam kitchen, 55 öre, we went to another district where another Sunday School was held under the management of the LDS.  All of the children were outsiders.  Attended a meeting in the big hall in the evening.  I was first called upon to speak.  I spoke a short time and bore my testimony of the gospel and of the divinity of the mission of the Prophet Joseph Smith.

July 24

I took in what sights I could.  Bought some view cards.  Witnessed a balloon ascension with a man in it.  The balloon was tied by a long line however.  This being the 24th of July, the Saints or rather the choir gave a party in honor of the early pioneers.  I attended, admission was 35 öre.  I stayed until 10:30. When I left Kristiania for Göteborg by S.S. Uddevall.  Was followed to the dock by Misses Lagartha Hermanson, Anna Otterson, Thora Hanson and Ranghild Anderson.  The steamer left 11 p.m.

July 29

Attended Sunday School where I spoke to the children.  Visited Josephina Karlson in the afternoon.  She treated on cake.  Attended meeting in the evening.  I spoke some time on the gospel and exhorted the saints to live for the same.  After meeting we, Pierson Annette, Judith Berndt and I took a walk to the Tivoli [funfair].  Annette gave me a cane she had found.

August 20

After dinner I, together with Wm Jenson, started tracting with a new tracts “Strålar af Lefvande Ljus” [Rays of Living Light].   I had 3 con., dist. 26 tracts and sold 3 books.  I read and studied Church History.  We changed [our] boarding place to the “Star” Restaurant at supper time.

Rays of Living Light

August 27

I wrote a letter to my cousin Anna Johanson.  In the afternoon I tracted some and sold a number of books.  I also hired Templar Salen [Temple Room] for a meeting on Wednesday the 29th.  Also inserted an ad in the “Aurora” of the meeting to be on Wednesday.

August 28

We, Jenson and Rex and myself, went through the Ystad Sugar Factory.  We secured permission from the superintendent and he sent a man with us and showed us all parts of the factory.  We went out to Svart and tried to hold a meeting but the priest in that place, Carl Axchir Balkåhra, had induced one Nils Hanson not to let us hold any meetings and therefore we could not get his place for the purpose of holding meeting.  Nils Lindskag treated on supper.  We walked back to Ystad in the evening.  Wrote a letter to Ida Jenson.

August 29

After breakfast we, Rex and I, visited some old friends of his.  The first was Mrs. Jeppson on lilla strandgatan.  Next, we met Mrs. Homkvist, a widow.  Next one woman who was selling milk.  She belonged to the Salvation Army.  Next visited a storekeeper, Mrs. Kjersti Göranson.  And then to Shoemaker Lindquist.  We invited all to a meeting to be held tonight in the Templar Hall at 8 p.m.  Held the meeting at the pointed time but with a very small attendance.  I called upon Rex Pherson to speak.  He spoke ½ hour upon the godhead.  I took up the remainder of the time telling what I had seen in Utah and how I found the Latter-day Saints.  Bore my testimony of the gospel.

August 30

I sent our monthly reports.  Also a letter to Amma Emanuelson.  In the morning or afternoon we went out to Köpingebro to Helena Ingelström’s  place.  She was gone to Cepenhagen.  I delivered the Stars [Millenial Star] to her sister who was there together with Helena’s daughter, Rex Pherson and G.W. Jenson was with.

The “Star”

On our way going out there, we called in at the Ystad Slaughtering House.  We secured permission to go through and was shown the several departments and was asked to call back in the morning when they would be killing pigs.

August 31

We went out to the slaughtering house where we saw how pigs were killed which was interesting.  Coming back we bought some cakes and “dricken” [drinks].  Rex Pherson left for Malmö on the 2 p.m. train.

September 3

I arose early in the morning and went out to Salt Sjöbaden.  I first retired to a place in among birch trees where I engaged in prayer to the Lord.  I then proceeded to the seashore which was close by and took a bath in the sea.  I enjoyed it much.  Wrote a letter to Severina Anderson, Halstad in answer to one I had received.  After dinner I tracted some.  Also lent Evangelina Sanna Grundsatair to one Mrs. Olin, a lady who manifested some interest in us on a couple of meetings held in Templar Hall, Ystad August 12 and August 29.  I had one conversation with one Mrs. Mopberg.  I was greatly assisted by the Spirit in defending the cause of truth.

September 4

Like yesterday, I again took the same morning preparation.  Today I received a letter from Home.  Some time ago I promised a Sister Hannah Person in Simrishamn that I would do work or see that the temple work was done for the following which are her parents – Per Anderson, born in Vemmerlöv, Sweden Oct. 3, 1817 – died 14 Dec. 1890.  His wife, Kjerstena Person, born in Tomarp, Sweden Oct. 3, 1817 – died July 4, 1894.  Wrote a letter home.  I tracted some in the afternoon.  Distributed 54 tracts, sold 15 books.  In the afternoon or evening rather, Pres. A.O. Ingelström, came from Kristianstad.  He stopped over night with us.

September 12

With a supply of tracts and books we started out in the country for Sjöbo about 11:30 a.m.  We tracted along the way and I sold 18 books.  We passed through a very beautiful country with rolling hills.  We secured lodging near a place called Häghult.  The mistress of the house was Bengta Johanson, a widow.  Her daughter and her husband were also living in the same room.  We were received very kindly.  We paid 1.00 for both of us.  I talked on the gospel with them and particularly explained the object of baptism and the mode thereof.  Also showed the inconsistency of children baptism.  In passing through Sögdestad I had a nice conversation with one Kjersti Olson.

September 13

After breakfast we started out on our journey.  The morning was somewhat cold but clear.  The country was a perfect autumn scene with gray stubble all over which all seems to say after the after the harvest days are over.  We walked a short distance.   When we arrived [at]a grove of “bok”[beech] trees, where we held morning prayer.

A Grove of Birch (Bok) Trees in Sweden

We continued tracting along the road towards Ericksdal.  I sold a number of books there and found one Hannah Åkeson (her maiden name)(she kept a store close to the station), her husband’s name was Nils Svenson.  This woman had relatives in Utah.  A sister-in-law had been writing to her.  Her name and address was Johanna Agren, Harrisville, Utah.  This Johanna Agren was married to Hannah’s brother.  Hannah appeared to be a good affectionate woman.  She treated on a bottle of lemonade and gave me some cakes.  This was in her store.  I explained the principles of the gospel to her and gave her tracts.  She was much moved and could not hold back the tears.  She had heard the elders before.  Some of her relatives in Utah was members of the Church.  I bore my testimony to her and left continuing with Elder G.W. Jenson towards Sjöbo where we arrived about 3:30 p.m.  We bought a few cakes for lunch whereupon we visited a Blacksmith Löfkvist where we slept over night.

September 25

I made out the financial report for Ystad Branch and tracted in the afternoon.  Took a stroll out to Sandskogen after tracting.

Sandskogen

October 9

I wrote a letter to Pres. Matson asking if he would let me be transferred to Gothenburg this fall.  I wrote one letter to Eric.  I finished reading the Book of Mormon to-day.  I went out to Köpingebro and delivered the Stars.

October 11

Arrived Ystad by foot about 12 Noon.  In the afternoon we tracted some.  I found one old lady Ingrid Johanson by name who had a married daughter in America in New York that had not written to her.  Her name is Gustafva and her husband’s name is Rudolph Sandstedt.  Miss Emma Jonson, 254 West 37th St.  C/

Janitor, New York is an acquaintance with Ingrid Johanson, Stora Ostergatan 29 Ystad.  And this Emma Jonson will very likely know where Gustafva lives.  I promised Ingrid that I would do all I could to assist in locating her daughter Gustafva’s whereabouts.  Received letter from Sofia B. Halmstad.

October 12

I wrote and sent letters to Emma E. and Sofia B. Halmstad and tracted in the afternoon.  I was shown through the Ystad Biograph Theater by one of the proprietors.

October 16

Left Ystad for the country about 11 a.m.  Continued the road towards Rägle.  On arriving there, we went to one “Olas” place, a relative to Elder Alvin Peterson, the man was not home.  We picked up some apples that had blowed down and sat down under the apple tree and feasted on them and rested a little, after which we continued the road towards Hemmestrop and tracted as we went.  Being overtaken by night, we secured lodging to one Anders Persson in Kagshult where we had supper.  They did not charge us anything and we gave them a few books.

October 19

We paid 25 öre each for lodging.  Continued and tracted as we went.  Arrriving Wänstad about 11 a.m.  After tracting this place we continued towards Esperäd.  We tracted also a portion of this placed and from here we took the 4 o’clock train for Ystad.  We felt to acknowledge the blessings of the Lord in giving us health and strength to perform the journey and in giving us lodging and much success in spreading the gospel in tracts and books, etc.

October 22

I took a walk out to Svart and delivered the Star to Nils Lindskag.  They were not home, however so I left the Star in the door.  I continued up to Balkåkra tracting along the way.  In one place I had the misfortune of getting bitten by a vicious dog who tore the pants and inflicted a large flesh wound back of the knee.  The lady of the house sewed the pants together after which I continued to Balkåkra where I desired to see the Priest.  I found him and had quite a conversation with him.

October 23

Carbolated Vaseline

I felt quite knock out today on account of a sore leg. I treated it with carbolated Vaseline and took a stroll out to Sandskagen to keep it limbered up.

 

November 6

We both started out for Kennekulle.  Before starting however, I received a letter from home (and answered it) with 111.52.  I sent one to Rex Pherson and sent in it an order on 30.00 Kr that I had borrowed from him.  Also sent one to Emil Erickson asking for an explanation as to stock account which I found to be short.  On our way to Knnekulle we visited the following saints – Gustaf Biel and his wife (on Billingen) and Carolnia Wallin.  She treated on caco [cocoa] and cakes and Johnnes Peterson and his wife.  They were both old.  We stopped over night with them.  The lady desired me to do work for her brother whose name is Karl Wilhelm Stenander, born Nov. 18, 1816.  She does not know now whether he is dead or not.  I told her the temple work could be done for him 100 years after birth if it could not be ascertained whether he is dead or not.  His father’s name was Sven Stenander and his mother’s maiden name was Kajsa Stina Malmstedt.  He is supposed to have been born in Wettlösa County in Stenbacker.  I promised I would see the work done for this Karl Wilhelm when it could be done.

November 19

Took the train for Tidan supplied with books and tracts.  From which place we proceeded by foot to Beateberg arriving P.O. Sandin’s place after dark.  He is a member of the Church but his wife and daughter is not.  We had supper and stopped over night.  He paid 2.40 tithing and followed us on the road a little ways giving us encouragement to continued faithful.  He was a deep and well-grounded man.

November 21

We continued towards Skallhullt and on the way I called at Fusshullt and Ingresvaded.  Arrived at Emil Anderson’s place in the afternoon where we had cakes and hot water.  The family is in the Church.  Continued to Torpet where we took in for the night.  “Pera Johan i [in] Mosshullt” had leased Torpet.  He was a friend to my father.

November 23

I bought a suit of underclothes from Aug. Anderson.  We left about Noon and proceeded to Nytorp where I got some genealogy from the Priest “Agner” and then went to Frökärr where we stopped over night.

November 27

Started early for Rödesund where I arrived about 7 a.m. and took steamer Motala Ström for Wadstena.  I proceeded direct to the archives where I labored to get genealogy.  After getting through the day there I rented a room 1.00 per night.

November 28

Continued work for genealogy.  Tracted a little in the evening.

November 29

Continued with the same work.

November 30

Continued with the same.  Was quite successful in the work in hand.  I left on 2:53 train for Motala where I secured a room for the night and took a stroll to Borenhult along the canal.

December 4

Went up to Mohlm to see a Sister Svenson.  She was sick in bed.  We administered the sacrament to her upon her own request and prayed for her and gave her 2 crownes.  She told us that she had had a dream in which she saw us elders and saw and recognized me, although she had never seen me before this being my first visit to her.  We left for Skövde in the evening.  Received a letter from home.

December 5

Started out early and took the morning train for Carlsborg on our way to Undenäs where I got some genealogy.  It started snowing today.  We walked back to Carlsborg where we stopped in Carlsborg Hotell.

December 24

Left on the 7 a.m. train for Hönsäter where we visited Gustaf Omer and family.  Arrived in the forenoon.  After dinner time we dipped bread in the old Swedish fashioned pot Xmas eve, which was enjoyed.

Happy Christmas

I sent a Xmas card to a school teacher, And. Person Veberäd (Skåne).  Bought one dozen of oranges.  Had fish (stock) and rice for supper.  Also helped putting candles in the Xmas tree.  Sang some songs and passed a fine evening.

1907

January 7

I tracted some today and met one Alma Nelson, a very nice woman who had been in New York.  I explained the gospel to her in English and also Swedish.

January 16

Received a letter from Geo. C. Smith containing an emigration blank which he directed me to fill out and send to Stockholm if I desired to go home on the emigration leaving Liverpool Feb. 7.  I accordingly filled the blank out and sent it to Mission President P. Matson, Svartensgaten 3, Stockholm stating that I would be ready to go home at that time.  I also wrote a letter to Geo. C. Smith.

January 22

Left Skövde on the 7:10 a.m. train for Mölltorp.  I went to Frökärr and I gave my Uncle August Hanson one coat, one pair of shoes and some shirts.  I went to Mölltorp and took the Noon train for Karlsborg where I took Steamer “Skårgarden” for Motala and directly took a train from there to Wadstena.  I put up for the night.

January 23

After taking a cup of chocklate in a café I proceeded to the archives where I resume my labor in getting genealogy and succeeded fairly well.  I took a snapshot of the archives, having borrowed a Kodak after getting through.   I took the train for Motala where I put up for the night.

January 24

I was informed that Steamer Skårgarden had discontinued making its regular trips today because of ice.  I therefore had to take the train for Skövde via Hallsberg arriving in the evening.  Received a card from Geo. C. Smith.

January 25

I took the 7:10 a.m. train for Mölltorp and walked from there, the big road passing Svärtebäcken.  I called at “Pera” but only the hired girl was home.  Continued to Carl Petterson’s in Noltorp.  They received me fine and treated on breakfast.  Had a fine gospel conversation with them and gave some books away.  Continued to Mosshult where I took some pictures of the place, after which I went to the priest in Nyttorp for the purpose of getting genealogy but I could not get any as he refused to deliver the books because one Augusta (in Noltorp), Hellberg Edvin’s wife, had told the priest a story about me and the Mormons and as a consequence I could not persuade the priest to give me the books.  I left and called on Lovisa in Nyttorp and gave her a tract.  I continued to Nyborg where I saw Gustaf in Skålaberget and his wife.  Also Petter in Korpås and his wife and I found out from them that we are relatives.  I received a photo of Gustaf and the children and I promised I would send one of our family when we have some taken.  I left and went to August in Österbo but he nor his wife was home, only the children.  I left for Frökärr calling at Olles.  Krestina treated on milk and cakes.  I gave them some books and had a nice conversation.  Said good by to Eva (Pettera Eva), Gustaf and Boens Petter.  Stopped over night to August Hansson’s.

Shakespeare Theatre in Liverpool

January 30

I took the 12:20 p.m. train for Copenhagen arriving 5:35 p.m. and went up to Korsgade 11 and stopped in the mission office.

February 1

Took the train in company with other elders.  Strolled around Copenhagen buying a few trinkets to take home etc.  Went to a show in the evening but it did not amount to anything.

Shakespeare Theatre in Liverpool

February 6

I took in the sights in Liverpool and bought a rope and wrapped my trunk.  In the evening we went to a show in the Shakespeare Theatre.  The play was “Mother Goose”.  The price was 1 shilling, 6 pence.  This was in the evening of the 5th instead of the 6^th.

February 7

Last night we attended a meeting held at 295 Edge Lane, Liverpool.  We elders were given the privilege to bear our testimony.  I responded among others.  After meeting we received our S.S. tickets to Boston.  After breakfast we settled up our bill with the hotel which was 8/6 for 2 days board and 3 nights lodging.  Took the stage to the dock about 10:30 a.m. and boarded the S.S. Cymric. February 7

S.S. Cymric

About an hour later we left Liverpool 3:05 p.m.  It was somewhat dark and cloudy.  Before leaving, Pres. Penrose came aboard and shook hands with the elders.  It was 22 elders, myself included, going home and something like 32 or 33 Saints.  Wrote a letter to Josefina B., card to Anette and Judith and J. Jenson.

February 8

Arrived Queenstown about 10 a.m. where passengers were taken aboard.  It was a beautiful day with sunshine.

February 9

All went ok but it was a heavy sea and I felt a slight touch of sea sickness.  The weather was clear and windy.

February 13

It was little rough today and rainy.  It was reported that a Jew died from appendicitis.  He was buried in the sea.  In the evening I practiced on the guitar and read some in Doc. & Cov.

Places A.J. Anderson Labored in for 2 years

First Presidency 1905

Christian D. Fjelsted, Scandanavian Mission President

Peter Matson, President of the Swedish Mission

Andrew J. Anderson 1905-1906, Halmstad, Sweden

 

A.J. Anderson’s Missionary Journal – Part III

There is a fair amount of reading to undertake even though I have only selected some excerpts from the daily life of A.J. Anderson while on his mission in Sweden.  He is assigned to Halmstad but is later transferred to Varberg even though extensive travels are recorded throughout his journal.  It is interesting to note the details including the names of just about everyone he meets or ministers to.  We also get to see what the weather is each day along with what he ate or bought at the market, as well as the books he studied.  We find that he is still caring for the needs of a Sister Johanna Svenson who is suffering from continuing illness, even bring her home from the hospital in a horse-drawn carriage.  He continues his practice of the guitar and is fond of singing from the Swedish hymnal that is used at church containing Latter-day Saint favorites.  His grasp of English is very impressive as I have read his journal with very few mistakes.  On a weekly basis he records teaching English class.  Another trait is that he thoughtfully remembers a number of birthdays, such as getting up at 4 a.m. to surprise someone with a birthday card or present, along with a party.  These selections will take us through June of 1906 or ¾ through his two year mission. –J.D.

A.J. Anderson’s Missionary Journal – Part III

A.J. Anderson about 1906

1906

Tuesday January 30 (Halmstad Sweden)

I delivered 74 tracts, sold 20 books, lent one away and had 7 gospel con.  I got kicked out in one place today, held M.I.A. in the evening.  I sent in the monthly report.

Thursday, February 1

It was a beautiful day.  I sold books to Bro. C.O.W. Pierson as follows 15, Lära Sonning, 20 Durant, 10 M. Syner, 20 F. Plannen, 20 Sanningröst, and tracts as follows 100 “D.S. Evangelist”, 2100 “Enda Vägen” 100, “F. af Nåd”, all of which was paid together with last month’s account (branch expenses) which amount together with the books was 13.52.  The branch amount was 4.19 out of 13.52.  I also took from the branch 100 “Det Sr. Evangelist”, rec’d the “News” today.  I read some of the L.D.S. Conference Sermons, which was held in Salt Lake October 1905.  I wrote a card to M.W. Poulson in Malmö.  We had a prayer meeting in the evening, well attended and a good spirit prevailed.  I received 250 from Sister Karlson in tithing.

Wednesday February 7

I wrote a letter to Geo. A. Smith.  It started to snow this morning.  Went out to Emma E.  Took some pictures of her place.  She treated on water and cakes.  We left and took a few more picture along the harbor.  Took one roll of film to the photographer.

Friday, February 9

I arose and made breakfast after which I read in the Bible.  The morning was clear and sun was shining.  I took from the Book Stock of Branch as follows 10 Durrant and 200 Det Somm Evangelist.  I took Johanna Svenson up to her home in a carriage.  She having been released from the hospital.  The fare was 50 öre.  Emma and Sophia came shortly after the arrival and talked a few minutes.  I went from Johannes home out to the east part of Hamstad to tract.  I delivered 30 tracts, sold 2 books and lent one away.  Held English Class in the evening.  Judith Persson paid the 150 she had borrowed.

Saturday, February 10

I arose and made breakfast and read a Swedish paper called “Halland”.  Bro. C.O.W. Pierson and I went out to Risarp.  We were received well and treated good.  Jakobana paid 1 crown in tithing.  It had snowed a little during last night but the roads were fine.  We sang a few songs to Mathilda’s place.  I became acquainted with her husband today for the first time.  He looked like a buffalo to me.  We left between 4 and 5 and arrived Halstad 2 hours later.  The office had been washed and cleaned up by Sister Severina Anderson while we were gone.  She and Josephina paid us a visit in the evening.

Friday, February 16

I arose and made breakfast and read in the Bible.  Dist. 47 tracts, sold 6 books, 4 conversations.  The weather was good today.  We held, as usual, English Class in the evening.  Emma called in on her way to Emamiels =  kyrkan [church, pronounced sheer’kah] as the Salvation Army was to have a social, etc. there.

Salvation Army “kyrkan” in Sweden

Sunday, February 18

I took a walk up to Galgberget early in the morning where I engaged in prayer, attended S.S. as usual, had dinner with Törn family.  Visited Johanna Svenson, a sick sister.  Visited also Severina Anderson who had invited us to have cake and water with them.  Held regular service in the evening a 6 p.m.  Josephina paid 50 öre on the Book of Mormon leaving  a balance of 1 crowne.  I received the Stars and also a telegram from A.O. Ingelström that Pres. P. Mattson was coming to Halmstad.

Monday, February 19

We went to meet Ingelström and P. Mattson who arrived at Halstad 11:10 a.m.  After arriving home, we prepared dinner.  Before we were ready to eat Detective Linderrot and a polisman [sic] came to investigate if we had arrived on the train and stated that a robbery had taken place on the train.  Bro. Carl Peirson ad myself answered the description very well, and the detective wanted us to go with him but as Mattson was here, we did not go until we had seen him off.  We then went to the police station and the man who had been robbed on the train came to see if we were the party that had robbed him, but he declared that he had never seen us and we were released.  We had English Class in the evening.

Monday, February 26

I together with Brs. Pierson left Halmstad on the 6 o’clock train a.m. from Varberg.  We had a number of books and tracts with us.  We arrived Varberg at 8 a.m. and after securing a platt [flat or room] or plan [also flat, but meaning level] in a book store over the city.  I and Pierson then went to the graveyard and selected a place where we dedicated the City of Varberg  to the work of spreading our tracts and books which we were now about to begin.

Varberg Cemetery Today

It was snowing in the morning but cleared up during the day.  I dist. 145 tracts and sold 38 books and gave 4 away, had 10 gospel conversations.  In the evening we together with one Gerda Larson, a relative to a Mathilda Nilson, we were received very kindly and then treated on cakes and saft (raspberry juice).  Later we retired to a lodging house called Fasten’s Café where we slept.  The price being 75 öre.  I visited 129 homes.

Wednesday, March 14

I took a trip down to a lumber yard office where I revisited a couple of clerks.  Had long conversation with them.  I gave them a Deseret News and a new tract.  They could both speak English fairly well.

Tuesday, March 20

After drinking a cup of coco, we took a stroll up on a very conspicuous hill in Oskarström from which a good view over the place is obtained.  We also engaged in prayer while here.  We returned to Axel Åberg and his wife Susanna.  Had dinner prepared which we enjoyed.  We then left Oskarström for Halstad on the 12:15 noon train.  I wrote a card to Böcker and received one from A. Ingelström and a letter from home.  While in Oskarström we visited the place on a hill the King Carl , the IX of Sweden were supposed to have camped while he was engaged in a war with Denmark.  The following inscription was on the rock:  [See insert]

This is supposed to have been chiseled in the rock by himself.  I received a letter from home and I answered it also.  Held M.I.A. in the evening.

 Thursday, April 5

Nothing of any importance transpired today.  We were not well but not sick in bed.

Wednesday, April 11

Today was in Halmstad what is known as “marknad” a general market day.  We took a stroll around town to see what we could and bought a few novelties.  I also bought a Duffy hat.

Thursday, April 12

I arose early and took a walk out to the sea.  I read a few chapters from the New Testament and held prayer while out there.  The morning breeze was most fine.  I bought a  pair of shoes.

Friday, April 13

I arose early and took a walk out to the sea.  I read some while out there from the New Testament.  Went to the Methodist Church in the morning.  Went to Severinas A.  in the afternoon.  Annette and Judith treated on cakes and water.

Saturday, April 14

I went out to the sea and read some from the New Testament.  I went to the torg [town square] and bought a “tjog” [a score or 20, pronounced showg] of eggs, one for Johanna Svenson.  I tracted and delivered 46 tracts and sold 14 books, 5 conv.

Saturday, April 21

I had caught a severe cold in the stomach and did not feel very well.  In the afternoon I went uptown and bought some lemonds [sic].  Emma visited us in the evening or afternoon, rather later in the evening.  I took very sick and nearly fainted because of pain in the stomach.  I laid down on the floor on my back and Brother Pierson poured some cold water on me and I soon got better.  Annette, Judith and Berndt Adamson visited us later in the evening.

Wednesday, April 25

Received a letter from Karl and E.H.  I took an inventory of the stock of Halstad Branch which amounted to 36.56 with 8.25 common on the Star making a total of 44.79.  We settled the branch accounts which was 4.46 each.  Pierson also a book  accounts which was 7.32 making a total of 11.77. In the evening I baptized Franziren Anette Karlson, her mother Josephina, Severina Anderson, Fru Karolina Törn, and Elder Carl O.W. Pierson being present.  Pierson confirmed her later in the evening in the office at vester 60 Litt. B.  I had been quite sick during the day but felt much better in the evening.

Tuesday, May 1

I received birthday cards from Emma, Anette, Severina, Josephina and Sophia Bentror, all saints in Halmstad Branch.  I wrote a letter home asking to send 40 dollars so I would receive them about June 20.  Wrote a card to Emma in the afternoon.  We had the pleasure of seeing a demonstration of the various labor organizations.  In the evening a Relief Society Conf. was held.  I reported the R.S.l from Halstad.

Wednesday, May 2

In the morning we Geo. C. Smith, Alf. Person, Louis Anderson, M.W. Poulson, A.L. Quist, and myself went out to Sofiero.  We took the street car as far as we could.  “Sofiero” is a castle where, in the evening, the feast was given by the Relief Society of Helsingborg which was enjoyed by all present.

Thursday, May 3

We left for Malmö 8:55 a.m., arriving 1-1/2 hr later.  Louis Anderson and Robert Draper and myself were the ones that went, was met at the deport by A.M. Nelson.  We walked up to Kornettsgatan 9 where the L.D.S. office was located.  Louis Anderson and myself went to the Ångkök [steam kitchen] where we had dinner.  In the evening they had choir practice to which I listened a while.

Sunday, May 6

I attended a fast meeting and the sacrament was also administered in the new hall at Malmö.  Bor. P. Mattson offered the dedicatory prayer.  Elders and saints bore their testimony.  At 2 p.m. another meeting was held.  I spoke a short time on authority.  At 6 p.m. another meeting was held.

Saturday, May 19

I read a book “Fränlingen Fråm Västern” [The Angel from the West].  I also for the first time in Ystad tracted.  Delivered 70n tracts and sold 5 books, had 2 con., one with a Barber Dahlbom was his name.  He said he was acquainted with Andrew Christofferson and spoke well of him.  The other con. Was with a woman of about 28 or 30 yrs old.  She was very reasonable in her talk, but expressed herself to the effect that she would not be a Mormon.  I asked her for permission to call again, which she did not promise directly.  I made out the weekly report and sent them.  Wrote a letter to A. P. Cumilin.

Friday, June 1

We had breakfast after which we started out to Krågarp.  It was rainy weather and the roads became very bad.  Therefore we did no tracting on the way.  But we called in at one Martin Jönson in Gattelljing.  The woman of the house had a brother and a son in Utah.  The son should be in Springville and is a tailor by profession.  The lady treated us on bread and butter, cakes and milk and invited us to call at any time we could do so.  We continued the way.  Arrived Rydsgård Station about 3 p.m. and still raining at intervals.  Arrived Krågarp about 4:00.  The women of this place was related to Elder Peterson’s parents.  Were treated on milk and cakes and suppler.  The man of the house, Lars Gabrielson took us afterwards up to a sister to his wife.  We had a lively ride.  After arriving, Per Nilson, the man of the house, took out a big bottle of whiskey and offered us some.  After telling him we did not drink any of that kind, the woman brought out some milk and cakes for us.  We slept here during the night.

We started out in the country in a tracting tour.  Left Ystad 11:00 a.m.  Arrived Svarta about 2 p.m.  Delivered the Stars to Lindskorg’s.  We continued towards Skivarp tracting along the way.  Arrived Skrivarp about 5 p.m.  We bought some cakes and butter which we ate.  And then we tried to get a place to stay overnight.  We were refused many times but finally got to stay with one “Konduktor Anderson”  We had a good bed and a fine room.  I dist 34 tracts, sold 6 books, visited 24 homes, had 2 conversations.Wednesday, June 6

Friday, June 8

We started out for Lilla Bedinge and tracted on the way.  I dist 52 tracts and sold 16 books, visited 22 homes, had 2 con.  We passed Jordberga Sugar Factory and asked permission to go through which was granted.  We first took in the limekiln.  It was very large.  We then took in the other departments such as the press room, boiler room.  It contained 9 boilers in all.

Beet Juice Boiler Control Room (Abandoned Sugar Mill)

The outside ones was very large as those 2 furnished the steam for all the machinery.  The middle one, 7 in all, made all the steam used to boil the sugar, etc.   The machinery together with the carbonators, evaporators,  centrifugals and the sugar pan was not of modern type.  After leaving the factory we went in to a store and bought some cake and then retired along the road an ate it.  We both felt a little tired from the walk yesterday, went through Killstrop and arrived Lilla Bedinge  and called at Matts Nilson’s where a relative (Johanna Olson) to Elder Person worked.  We found her out hoeing weeds in the garden and talked to her about 15 minutes.  Then we went back a little way and called at another relative of Elder Peterson, martin Olson.  He was not home but his wife had just arrived home from the beet fields.  She treated on hot water and cakes and later on some milk.  I explained the principle of the gospel to her.  We went back to Jordberga and again stayed overnight with Nils Begtson where we also had supper.

I sent the weekly reports.  After dinner we went out to Köpingebro to see some horse races.  The race was conducted on a different mode.  They have in the race track a fence about 3-4 feet high that the horses had to jump while going at full speed.  One of them fell in the attempt, throwing the rider violently to the ground, but did not kill him which was a wonder.Sunday, June 10

Thursday, June 14

We took a stroll around Sjäbo and visited a wind mill [see insert] and other parts of town after which we left for tracting a little on the way.

Old Windmill at Sjöbo (a city landmark)

We arrived Hemestorp about 5 p.m. and stayed with a school teacher whose name was person.  In the evening we heard the nightingale but as the weather was rainy and cold, he did not sing very much.

Friday, June 29

Several of us missionaries took a trip to the fair ground, the price was 1.00 each.  We visited nearly all the building such as good Templars.  We signed our names there in a book for that purpose.  Also visited mechanical art building and what was known as the “Konst och Industria Hall”  [Art and Industry Hall] in which were many interesting things – an envelope machine which was operating, was of special interest.  We stayed on the ground all day.

Unidentified Woman in Sweden

Unidentified Woman in Sweden

A.J. Anderson with friends in Sweden (sporting a bowler hat, center)

A.J. Anderson’s Missionary Journal – Part II

Continuing the missionary journal of A.J. Anderson in Sweden, Grandpa Anderson is teaching us the value of genealogy.  He not only collected vital dates of our ancestors, but made sure that the temple work was done for those who had passed on.   To put things in context, Andrew’s father, Carl John Anderson was born in Österbo (1849) and his mother, Maria Kajsa (pronounced kii’sah) Hanson was born in Frökarr (1848). Of course the entire journal could not be included but, while in Halmstad, he visited the market almost daily for June ripened strawberries.  Perhaps this is where he later had a small strawberry farm in Lehi which the family worked every summer.  We discover that he bought a guitar, borrowed a mandolin, liked to sing and dance, and go for strolls around where he was staying.  It was particularly touching to see his concern over a Sister Johanna Svenson who was sick with “an eye sore”.  He recorded at least 15 visits during a two month period.  He also recorded frequent prayers and fasting (one such time was a 2-day fast and the following day another fast) as well as constant study on a daily basis.  Another entry was when his brother Gustave (whom he frequently wrote letters to) graduated from the University of Chicago and sent him a photo.   Two dreams were recorded that perhaps had some significance.  A letter sent and received from George Albert Smith was left without explanation.  Perhaps someday he might elaborate on some of these interesting entries. –J.D.

A.J. Anderson’s Missionary Journal – Part II

1905
Saturday June 24

I went with coffee and refreshments to August Hanson till Mosen.  I gave him 10 kronor while out there.  Later I went with Anna och [and] Britta to Breviks Church.  On returning I went with Ann to Pettera Eves and her son Gustaf.   He said he was born the 28 of April 1876 and Eva was born the 2nd of October 1830.  Krestin Karlson was there.  She said she was born in April 1847.  Pettera Anna was also there.  She was just like her but they had all become much older.  Eva treated on cakes and fish, potatoes, cheese, butter and bread.  I was in and saw and talked to Skousa Frans och [and] Hans Huston.  I also met August Johanson (Vanasa August) and Gustave Anderson’s boy in Skålaberget.

Sunday June 25

In the afternoon I with Anna took a walk to Nordvik where we met Gustave Lind and went with him up to his daughter Amanda.  She treated on saft [juice] and cakes and I had a good long conversation with her.  On my way back I visited Kristin Carlson who treated on supper and showed us fotografs ect .  Everything on the route to Norvik looked about the same except that birch bush had grown up where torf masen once was.  Bryggan [the bridge](the pair) in Nordvik was torn up.

Monday June 26

While at Krestin Karlson’s yesterday I got the age of her husband August and the children which was as follows:  August born in 1838 and died the 29 Oct 1881, Elin born 14 Feb 1870, Vernar born 3 Oct 1871, Christina born 21 Oct 1872, död [died] 26 Oct 1872, Clara born 7 Nov 1873, Victor 6 Aug 1876, Agnes 23 July 1879, Ida 17 June 1882.  The above dates are birth dates of August Carlson’s children.  I took a walk down to Mosen where I knelt down in prayer.  I went up to August Larson (Petter Larson’s Augusta) to see here.  She was glad to see me.  She treated on saft [juicel] and cakes.  She gave me her father’s name and I promised her that I would see that the temple work would be performed for her father Johannes Anderson who was born the 5 of Jan 1819 (Torpen?) and he died 14 Feb 1904.  We, Aug Hanson and Britta and I, went to Mölltark and had their pictures taken.  I bought a collar and a few view cards.

Tuesday June 27

It was thunder and lightning and a little rainy today.  I took a walk down to Österbo.  I saw Svenson and his wife.  They treated on saft [juice].  I stayed there about 2 hours and had a good long talk with them.  I went to August I Österbo but did not find them home.  That is August.  Hilda, his wife treated on saft and cakes and talked of everything.  I received a fotograf of my father that I took to have it reproduced.  I saw Petterson in Österbo (Maskinsten).  He was well but was much older.  I returned to Frökär in the evening.  I got the following information.  (Boens Jon) was born the 1st of Dec. 1828, Petterson’s Österbo born 8 Sept 1835, his wife Mathilda was born about March 1845 and died the 26 of Sept. 1894.  I promised Petter Larson’s Augusta that I would send her my photos.

Wednesday June 28

I took a walk to Grefbäch for the purpose to obtain some genealogy but I was told that the books were removed to Hintzening where I saw Gustave och [and] Jon.  They treated on supper and saft.  I then continued to nearly Hintzegården where I spent the night in the open air as it was quite warm.  I did chiefly because I intended to see the priest who was living at Hintzegården but I was disappointed after all as he was not home.  I gave Jon a book and Gustaf’s family 3 …  Jon was born Oct. 17, 1825.

Thursday June 29

I arrived in Frökarr about 10 a.m.  I hired Johan Sundquist to take the photographer over.  We went and had a picture of Moshult taken after which we went to Frökarr and had 2 pictures taken there.  I went back to Mölltorp and had a picture of my father reproduced.

 

Carl John Anderson – A.J. Anderson’s Father

Friday June 30

I went to Hintzegården to see the priest and went to Brevik’s church where we secure some genealogy.  I then went to Hellberg’s and then home.  I went to Pettera Anna’s and she treated on cakes etc and then to Kristin Karlson where we had saft and cakes.  I then went to Grytåsen and had supper with Carolina Johanson and stopped over night there.

Saturday July 1

I arose early and went to Frökärr.  I went to Sköfde on the noon train and found Bro. Emil Ericson home.  We took a walk out in the evening and had the pleasure of seeing a Swedish dancing party.  I took a bath.

Sunday July 2

I went with Bro. Erickson out to Tidholm where he held sacrament meeting at Sister Hall’s place.  We were received very kindly.  The weather was very oppressive and warm.

Monday July 3

I had a light breakfast and bought a few view cards and left on the 12:40 a.m. train for Mölltarp.  I bought me a collar there and receive 3 photos from the photographer and I gave Marbrar one of the place in Frökarr.  I went down to August’s Österbo with my father’s photo.  I had supper there and stopped over night.  I gave them 3 books and 2 tracts.

Tuesday July 4

I left Österbo in the morning for Frökärr.  Called in at Maja Sundqvist’s.  Mathilda was home.  I went up to Augusta Larson (Petter Larson’s Augusta) to say farewell.  She treated on saft.  I went with Anna Johanson to Pattera Eve’s.  She treat on supper.

Wednesday July 5

Morbror and Anna went with me to J…  They both were much moved as I parted with them.  Saw Lisa’s Aug.  who treated on cakes and saft.  Said good by to Ander’s Nylyckan and Ander’s Nolby, and Augusta Sundqvist.  At noon I left Frökärr for Göteborg via Molltorp and Rödesund where I took S.S. Astrea.  The weather was fine.  I wrote a letter to Eric.  Mailing it at Törebada.

Thursday July 6

We left Sjtorp at daybreak arriving Venersborg in the afternoon.  I had 2 gospel con. During the day.  Arrive Göteborg 6:30 p.m.  I went directly up to the office at Plänagegatan 15 where a meeting was held.  In the evening I spoke a few minutes.  I slept there during the night.  I had intended leaving on the boat for Halmstad the next morning but I missed the boats så [so] had to stay.

Wednesday July 26

I went down to the torg [square] and bought some strawberries which were nice.  I prepared me with books to go out tracting.  I distributed 60 tracts, visited 48 homes, sold 10 books, had 3 con. [conversations]  I met today the roughest man since coming to Sweden.  He drove me out of his shop and prevented me from tracting a small alley.  I wrote a letter to Fru [Mrs.] Isakarvidson in Bolnar asking permission to come up there and hold a meeting at her place.

Monday August 7

I wrote a postal to Okarström telling them we were coming out there on Friday.  Next we held a priesthood meeting laying out plans for the travels and meetings to be held the next few days.  We also took under consideration what should be done with Hulda Anderson who had on 3 different times been cut from the Church and now had recently applied for babtisms [sic].  It was decided to lay the matter before the saints on a meeting tonight.  We had hot water and cakes to Mrs. Törn’s in the afternoon.

Tuesday August 8

I wrote a card to Oskerström.  Had dinner with Fru [Mrs.] Törn.  Took a walk to the tivoli [amusement park] in the afternoon.  Held a meeting in the hall in the evening and cottage meeting after the public meeting in which we discussed the case of Hulda Anderson.  Bro. A.O. Ingelström made a motion that we admit Hulda Anderson a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  It was seconded by Elder H.A. Oakeson that she be admitted on conditions that she promised that she would live a life of a true Latter-day Saint to which she answered yes and was accordingly admitted.

Tuesday August 15

I arose early and went to the sea and had a bath.  I took along the Doc. & Cov. and read a few chapters.  I also held prayer while out there.  I receive a letter from Eric and one from Pearl Davis.  I tried to practice on the guitar.  Held prayer meeting in the evening and also organized MIA with myself as President and Josephina Karlson as first and Sophia Bingtson as 2nd counselors.

Friday September 22

We continued our journey toward Bygget where we arrived at noon.  Tracted the place and left for Breared where we arrived in the evening from which place we took the train for Halmstad.  Sold 20 books today.  We enjoyed the trip very much and feel that we have accomplished some good trust that the seed sown may grow and bear fruit in due time.

Thursday October 19

I finished recording the reports in the ledger.  Received from Gustave a catalogue of the Columbia University of New York.  Also a graduating photo of himself from the U. of Chicago.  I dist. the Stars.  Rec’d from Fru Törn 2.00 on the Star.  Went to Hulda Anderson’s place where we spent the evening.

Gustave Anderson A.J. Anderson’s Brother

Wednesday November 1

I went to Helsingör to buy some vanilla for Svalberg and visited some points of interest such as Hamlet’s grave, Ophilia Spring from which I drank water, etc.  Returned to Helsingborg at 6:25 p.m.  The R. Society held a bazaar and served a nice supper in the evening.

Thursday November 9

I was reading a book called “The Women of the Bible”.  Took a walk to the post office.  Bought an order to Emil Clausen (fotographer) for 3 crowns, and stamp for 1.00.  We had prayer meeting in the evening.

A.J. Anderson – Note the photographer’s name “Emil Clausen”

Wednesday November 15

I received photos from Helsingborg.  We visited Sister Sophia Bengtson.  She treated on hot water and cakes.  At 7 p.m. the children came to office and practiced or rehearsed the exercises to be carried out on the Feast at Christmas.

Wednesday November 30

I went out to tract.  Distributed 35 tracts, visited 20 homes, 10 tracts otherwise,
sold 13 books.  I visited with sister Josephina Karlson and sister Sophia Bengtron.  Treated on hot water and cakes.  I dreamed last night that I labored very hard with a bicycle over a sticky road and all of a sudden I saw before me 6 pc. 4×6 about 20 feet long.  I pushed them before me with comparative ease through a winding trail, a little down grade.  At the bottom was a ditch and my 4×6’s landed across it.  I took my cape off and wiped the sweat from my brow.  Then Hulda Anderson and Sophia Bentson came along.  The former seemed somewhat disappointed while Sophia was ok.

Saturday December 2

I ordered coal for 1.60.  Took a trip to Galgeberg where I engaged in prayer to the Lord.  After which I went to Johanna Svenson.  She was still sick but somewhat better.  Emma E. Paid us a visit.  I bought some cakes and cooked water so we had a little feast.  Last night the 1st of Dec. I dreamed among other things that I saw myself in an attempt to climb a step ladder extended from the water on a good size boat.  The upper part of the boat was rounding and painted as it were white.  On this rounding was 3 rods of iron extending from the top of interior of the boat rather and pointed to the step ladder.  I was trying to reach the ends of those rods, in some places of the ladder a good many steps were missing and great boxes were throwed [sic] in to fill the space.  I labored long and hard before I succeeded in reaching the rods but finally got hold of them and continued until I got over this rounding and was safe on the deck which was surrounded by a very strong and high enclosure.  In the sea all about the boat and around the bottom of the step ladder I saw numerous people trying to reach the ladder and all labored for their lives.  At the top end of the ladder where the rods began that is on this rounding, were no steps and the only way to get up was to cling, as it were, to the rods and slide on the knees.  After I came up, I saw a few men there, probably 5 or 6 or even more, but never counted them.

Monday December 11

Received a couple of songs from Oscarsström,.  I tracted about an hour, delivered 19 tracts and sold 2 books, one con.  I took a trip to Sophinea, B. Emina was there.  Sophia treat on milk and cakes.  Sent a letter to Geo A Smith.

Sunday December 24

We held S.S. in the usual time and regular meeting at 2 p.m. after which Emma and I went to see Johanna Svenson.  Emma paid 3 crownes [kronor (Swedish), or crowns (English); 1 krona = 11¢ today] on her debt which was 11 krona leaving 8 crownes debt.  In the evening we were invited to attend a Christmas eve gathering at Josephina Karlson’s.  The evening was spent in songs and was otherwise entertaining.  A delicate prepared supper was prepared by sister Karlson and her daughter Annet, both of which gave me Christmas presents consisting of an ink stand from Annet and one egg cup from sister Karlson.  Yesterday I also received from Emma E. a card stand and one egg cup as Christmas presents.  Leverina A. also gave to the office one table cloth and ½ doz. table spoons.  Bro. Böcker and I presented Severina with a photo album.  Price was 3 crownes, 1.50 each.  Sent a Christmas card to H.A. Oakeson.  Held meeting at 2 p.m.

Good Christmas! and Good New Year!

Monday December 25

I arose 6:30.  Dressed up and went to Jutottan in the Lutherians Church in Halstad.  The balance of the time was spent home supper to Hulda A.

Tuesday December 26

We had dinner to Törns.  Prepared for a feast which we held in the evening and we all danced around the Christmas tree.

 

1906
Monday January 1

We prepared the hall for an MIA feast which was held in the evening.  Chocklad and cakes were served to all present.

Wednesday January 3

I wrote a letter to G.E. and sent some letters and papers to Böcker.  Emma paid me a visit.  Severina treated on herring and potatoes for dinner.  In the evening I took a money order, a card and a letter down to B. Bengtson.  He treated on water and cakes.  I received a letter from Geo. A. Smith and Pearl Davis.

A.J. Anderson’s Missionary Journal – Part I

By way of background, Andrew J. Anderson was set apart as a missionary on January 10, 1905 in Salt Lake City.  Details are scant as to who set him apart but the next day he met with Apostle George A. Smith, spending a couple of hours there with his brother Eric.  Andrew was 30 years old at the time.  Through his other brother Gustav, he was able to receive money to fund his mission.  He spent two years in Sweden preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  His journal is a meticulous account of specific names of people he met, how many books he “sold” each day, the number of tracts handed out, the “conversations” held, and even the songs he and his companion sang each day.  Never a day was missed that he did not write in his journal.  Time and space limit what can be included.  Selected are some interesting entries as he begins his mission.  Some of the early trials he faced were being seasick, at least eight visits to the dentist, sickness, facing anti-Mormon prejudice, and dealing with disciplinary measures with a wayward member.  He also describes the beauty of his surroundings including a favorite knoll overlooking the sea and the woods where he and his companion would retire to pray.  It was peculiar to hear many accounts of the woman of the house inviting him in to hot water and cake.  The offer most likely was tea and cake but in obedience to the Word of Wisdom he probably settled for “hot water”. –J.D.

1905

Monday Jan. 9

Left Lehi on a mission to Scandinavia.  Arrived Salt Lake about 10 a.m.  Met John J. Scott and he took me to dinner at Gallager’s Restaurant after which I bought overshoes, shirts, fountain pen and a few other things and prepared myself for the journey.

Tuesday Jan. 10

I went up early and went to the temple and was baptized for 8 of my father, brothers and relatives, the names of which will be found on our family temple record.  About 10 I went up to Bro. Spence and made arrangements for transportation after which I had my trunk brought up from the R.G.W. Depot to Mrs. Ida Sandberg, 172 Social Hall St. where I was staying.  In the evening I went to see Ida Jensen, 345 South West Temple.  Was set apart for my mission 2:00 p.m.

George Albert Smith

Wednesday Jan. 11

Arose early and went to the temple where I registered and received my endowment.  I came out of the temple at 3 p.m. and I went to see Eric at 725 Own St. at 5 p.m., but after coming from the temple I went by invitation to Mrs. A. S. Forslund, 148 South W. Temple where she had a nice dinner prepared for me.  She gave me addresses and sent with me handkerchiefs as presents to her friends.  I had supper with the folks where Eric stays,  Mr. and Mrs. Davis.  Went with Eric to Geo. A.  Smith where we stayed about 2 hours, after which we parted and I went to Mrs. Julia Smith 289 Center St.  We all had a pleasant evening and I stayed there all night and slept with Aug. Carlson.

Thursday Jan. 12

I arose early, had breakfast and went up to 172 Social Hall St. to get my temple clothes and went up to the temple and registered for Henry’s endowments which I took during the day.  Came out of the temple 2 p.m.  Met Eric at the corner of Zions Savings Bank and he gave me 60 dollars in accordance with previous arrangement.  Met also John Scott.  We all went together and hunted up an expressman who took my trunk down to O.S.L. Depot after which we went down to 289 Center St. to Julia Smith’ where I had a bite to eat.  She also prepared a very nice lunch for me consisting of chicken, eggs, pickles, graham and white bread, about ¼ lb butter and cheese.  Also apples.  I enjoyed it very much during my trip through America.  Her kindness to me shall not be forgotten.  I left her place for O.S.L. Depot about 4:30 p.m. in company with Eric and John Scott, Mrs. Smith and Aug. Carlson also came down and brought the lunches.  Was met by Ida Jenson at the Depot and we all boarded the car and had a few minutes chat. They all went off and I went out on the car step and after conversing a few seconds with Eric the train pulled out and I waved my hat to them all.  I left Salt Lake 5:45 p.m.

Wednesday Jan. 18

I took a shave and brushed myself up.  Had breakfast and went up to 84 State St. where I made arrangements for my ticket to Liverpool.  I was received with courtesy by Mr. Langley to whom I present my letter of introduction.  I got the address of the other boys who were stopping at Mrs. Sherman’s in Charlestown.  I found them without any difficulty.  I wrote a letter home and had dinner with the rest of the boys whose names were

Oscar S. Backer              from    Salt Lake City
J.E. Openshaw                “            “                      “
William E. Baird             “         Baker City, Oregon
Ole P. Peterson               “          Star Valley, Wyoming
Wm Knudson                  “          Provo, Utah
Oscar Turnquist              “         Ogden,              “
Jesper Hepworth            “         Bountiful,         “
Ernest Rossity                 “         Salt Lake City, “

We took a stroll through Boston.  Went to the Lealand Docks in East Boston and saw the steamer “Canadian” on which we boarded at 7:30 p.m.  All of us in the best of spirit.

Monday Jan. 30

Heber J. Grant

Arrived early in the morning.  Prayer by me. We were met by Elders Fairbanks and McAllister who took us up to the headquarter for the European mission where we were met by Apostle Heber J. Grant, who after being introduced to us gave us soul inspiring instructions and laid especial stress on the importance of living pure lives and said the thoughts can be controlled if we will Work! Work! Work! And do all we can to do good.  Promised by the virtue of his office that if we would from henceforth serve God our sins committed up to that time would be forgiven us.  And as a token that we would serve the true and living God forever we all raised our right hand.

We bought tickets to Copenhagen.  Price $12.00.  We left the office about 12 noon and had dinner in Leeks Hotel after which we in company with Bros. Fairbank went to the Depot and left over the “Great Central Railway” for Grimsby, England.  Arrived there at 6:30 p.m. upon which we immediately boarded the steamer “Botania” for Esbjerg, Denmark.  Left about 10 p.m.  I wrote a letter for home, also a postal to home and to Eric and Gustave from Liverpool.  The letter for home from Grimsby, England.

Sunday, Feb. 5

It being fast day, we fasted, attended Sunday School in the morning 10 a.m. Held fast meeting at 2 p.m. where Bro. Bocker and myself bore our testimonies to the truthfulness of the Gospel of Christ for the first time in Sweden and in that language.  Attended meeting in the evening.  Bocker was called up to speak first after which I was called and we occupied about 5 or 6 minutes each.  I told the people that we had been called to preach the gospel with the same calling as the apostles in the days of Christ and that we had not accepted this call because of money or hire but because of the love that we had for mankind that also they should receive a testimony of the divinity of this work.

Tuesday, Feb. 21

Copenhagen, Denmark (Scandinavian Mission Headquarters) to Kalmar, Sweden (First Area)

We sang song 154 “Han komer snart”  [“Redeemer of Israel”] etc. After breakfast we Rex Person, Loni Anderson and myself went out for a walk on Norre Landsvagen in Kalmar until we had walked about 2 ½ miles.  Rex and me went on the first road to the right to enter in the woods.  Bro. Anderson continued Landsvagen.  He had his grip [gripsack or valise] with him and was going out to tract after Bro. person and myself reach the wood.  We hunted a suitable place to pray.  After having found one we knelt down, facing the temple and sent up our hearts to our Heavenly Father.  I prayed first and during my prayer I was overcome by the Spirit.  Bro. Person than offered prayer after which we talked together for a few minutes.  He then suggested that we kneel down again, which we did.  He offered prayer again after which I offered prayer asking the Lord that he would grant unto us power and influence among this people.  I was filled with the Spirit of God and after we arose I prophesied that if the people of this city Kalmar would not repent, they would be destroyed.  I did it in the name of Jesus Christ after which I blessed the spot upon which we stood with authority of the Holy Melchizidek Priesthood.  I have never experienced such feelings I had at that time.  We returned home after having been out about 4 hrs.  We had lunch after which I wrote a letter to R.G. Yargesen, Sandy, Utah and a view card to Ida Sandberg, 172 Social Hall St., S.L.City, Utah.

Friday, Feb. 24

We sang song No. 49 “Kom Israels Aldste” [“Ye Elders of Israel”].  After breakfast Rex Pehrson and me went out in the woods to pray.  Bro. Pehrson also administered to me and anointed me with oil as I was afflicted with a sore itch that the Elders were afflicted with at Helsingborg where I no doubt contracted it.

Trädgårdsgatan Today [Garden Street]

After returning, we went out to tract.  I had two gospel conversations, sold 3 books and distributed 25 tracts, visited 22 families.  I labored on Trädgårdsgatan [Garden Street].

The name of one of the families where I had a conversation was Friberg.  He had been in Rock Springs, Wyo. and both he and the lady of the house were bitter enemies to our people.  The lady was walking up and down the floor praying while the old man was pouring out a lot of anti-Mormon papers and ridiculed our people.  I talked at some length on defending the cause of truth and on the first principles of the gospel.  And I bore my testimony that God had again spoken from the heavens in this, the dispensation of the fulness of times.  That the Gospel of Jesus Christ had been restored to the earth through the instrumentality of the Prophet Joseph Smith.  I told them that his testimony would stand as a witness against them at the last day if they did not obey the Gospel.  They both looked at me with a sort of surprise.  I left a tract with them and it was accepted but when I first came they would not accept it.

Sunday, Mar. 5

Kalmar Castle

Arose early in the morning together with Bro. Rex Pehrson. Went out in the woods to hold prayer.  We enjoyed the morning walk and also the spirit of prayer.  We sang the first verse of “We Thank Thee O God for a Prophet”.  This being the regular fast day, we fasted after returning.  Fixed ourselves up for Sunday and sang the song “Nar din lefuads dag synes bister” after which we held prayer.  We then went up to Kalmar Slott [castle] for the purpose of visiting but we were disappointed as no admittance could be secured at that time.  One of our neighbors came in to us and we had a good conversation on the Book of Mormon.  We then returned to the (Slott) Castle of Kalmar.  We went through its various departments, among which was Erik XIV’s private room which was the most elaborate and interesting.  The door was made of all kinds of wood put in the shape of flowers and ornaments.  The walls and floor inside was also inlaid with wood of all kinds.  The whole thing represented fine and elaborate wall paintings such as Kalmar Slott, great flowers, lions and other castles and every shade and particle of the whole was made and jointed together and shaded of various kinds of wood, finished in natural wood finish.  It was the finest workmanship I have ever seen and it must have taken over a century to complete the work.  I signed my name as a visitor in the book there for that purpose.

Erik XIV Room (Kalmar Castle)

Missionary Authorization – Skåne Conference (Southern Part of Sweden) – February 2, 1905

A.J. Anderson – Patriarchal Blessing

A patriarchal blessing is a special blessing given by a patriarch for the benefit of the recipient which is held sacred and personal.  Grandpa Anderson received his in 1901and is shared here for the family as well as for its historical context.  The patriarch at the time was Patriarch John Smith, the son of Hyrum Smith, Joseph Smith’s brother.  A brief bio of Patriarch Smith is contained below.  In the blessing is declared the lineage of Ephraim to which the majority of LDS members belong, the tribe given the primary responsibility to lead the latter-day work of the Lord.  To this charge grandpa was promised the blessing of returning to his native land (Sweden) to bear the message of the restored gospel.  In this situation he made the blessing a reality by qualifying himself to go on a mission just four years after this blessing was given and served from January 10, 1905 to January 17, 1907.  He was also mindful of his kindred and did much genealogy and temple work as well.  He used his blessing as a road map based on what the Lord instructed him to do.  Sometime in the early 1900’s, while living in Utah, grandpa used a piece of scratch paper to word an opening and closing prayer for Sunday School, probably to get his English correct.  It gives us a rare insight into his prayers and spiritual thinking. – J.D.

Andrew J. Anderson, about 1910

PATRIARCHAL BLESSING
Salt Lake City, March 9th, 1901

A Blessing given by John Smith Patriarch, upon the head of Andrew John Anderson, son of Carl John and Maria Kajsa Anderson, born Frokarr, Skaraborgs Lan, Sweden, May 1st, 1874.

Brother Andrew John Anderson, by virtue of my office I place my hands upon thy head, and as the spirit shall direct, pronounce and seal a blessing upon thee.  Thou art of the house of Israel.  And through obedience to the gospel thou art entitled to the blessings promised unto the Saints. And although born in a foreign land, thou art numbered among the sons of Zion of whom much is expected.

It is therefore necessary that you strive to inform thy mind and be prepared for events to come, for thou art chosen to be a Savior in thy father’s house, and to secure salvation unto kindred and friends for there are many honest in heart both among the living and the dead who look to thee as thou art the legal heir to this privilege holding the priesthood. Thou art of Ephraim which is the lineage of thy progenitors, many of whom would gladly unite with thee in the kingdom of our Father if convinced of the truth.  Be diligent in the discharge of duty seeking wisdom of the Father, and by listening to counsel, and thou shalt have joy in thy labors and the time is not far distant when thou shall be called into counsel among thy brethren and it shall be thy lot to preside among the people. Therefore be prudent and remember that there is a God in Israel in whom we should trust, and it shall be well with thee, and thou shalt also be prospered in thy labors temporal, and shall gather of this world’s goods, all which shall be necessary, although it shall be thy lot to feed the hungry, and to provide for widows and the fatherless.

It is thy privilege to live to a good old age and to see much of the world, and let thy voice be heard in the defense of truth, virtue and righteousness where so ever thy lot shall be cast.  It shall be thy privilege in the near future to return to thy native land bearing the message of good tidings of joy unto kindred and friends and also unto strangers.  Therefore look forward to the future with pleasure with a prayerful heart, and an inquiring mind, and when necessary thou shalt have the gift of discernment, and shall detect error and also evil and choose the good, and if thou wilt live up to thy privileges, thy name shall be perpetuated and live in the memory of the Saints.  Therefore, be of good cheer and be buoyant in spirit and it shall be well with thee both here and hereafter.

This blessing, with the blessing of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, I seal upon thee in the name of Jesus Christ and I seal them up unto eternal life to come forth in the morning of the first resurrection with many of thy kindred and friends.  Even so amen.

Patriarchal Blessing Transcript – March 9th, 1901

An Opening Prayer

Our Heavenly Father, we a few of thy children have assembled our selfs [sic] together in the capacity of Sunday School and we ask thee whilt  [sic] we are thus asabled [sic] to let a portion of thy Spirit be with us especially upon those who are to speak and instruct that they may be guided by its holy influence to say words which will be beneficial to each and every one of us.  We ask thee to forgive us our sins and follies and give us strength to resist temptations and evil.  Strengthen our faith and quicken our minds to understanding by thy holy spirit.  Bless the missionaries that they may be able to gather out the honest in heart and bring them into the fold.  This [sic] favors and blessings we ask in the name of thy son, amen.

A.J. Anderson’s Handwritten Note – Opening Prayer

 

A Closing Prayer

Oh Lord our Heavenly Father, we thy children unite our selfves [sic] in calling upon thy holy name at the close of this meeting and we thank thee for thy goodness and the bondless [sic] mercies which thou has continually showered upon us.  We ask thee to let thy holy spirit go with us to our various places of abode and that we may be able to treasure up from time to time that which is pleasing in thy sight.  We ask thee to increase our faith and give us strength that we may always be able to resist temptations and overcome all evil and that we may always remain faithful and observe thy laws and commandments that we may be united with thee in thy celestial kingdom.

A.J. Anderson’s Handwritten Note – Closing Prayer

 

---

 

Patriarch John Smith (September 22, 1832 – November 6, 1911), was the fifth Presiding Patriarch of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His father was Hyrum Smith, the older brother of Joseph Smith, the founder of Mormonism.

Patriarch John Smith

John was born in Kirtland, Ohio, to Hyrum Smith and his first wife, Jerusha Barden Smith, during the early days of the Latter Day Saint movement. He was among the first generation of children raised in the church. The office of Presiding Patriarch was initially created to honor Joseph Smith Sr., the father of the religion’s founder. Before his death in 1840, Joseph Smith Sr. declared his eldest living son, Hyrum, would receive the office of patriarch by virtue of lineal succession. Hyrum at this time was one of the most influential members of the church and was widely seen as the most likely successor to its leadership should he outlive his brother. However, in 1844, both Hyrum and Joseph Smith were assassinated by a mob in Carthage, Illinois.

This event left the church leaderless. By consensus, it was expected that the title of Presiding Patriarch would pass to Hyrum Smith’s eldest son, John. However, because John Smith was only 11 years of age at the time of his father’s death, the position was instead claimed by a younger brother of Joseph Smith Jr., William, and later by the younger brother of Joseph Sr., John Smith, who was known to the church as “Uncle John”. Meanwhile, Hyrum’s son John Smith traveled with the family of Heber C. Kimball to Winter Quarters, Nebraska. In 1848, John Smith, along with Kimball, reached the Salt Lake Valley to join Brigham Young, who had assumed leadership of the largest Latter Day Saint faction, the LDS Church.

In February 1855, the younger John Smith succeeded his great uncle, “Uncle John” Smith as Presiding Patriarch of the LDS Church, following the latter’s death. In this capacity, he acted as voice in the setting apart of his younger half-brother, Joseph F. Smith as president of the church. He became the longest-serving Presiding Patriarch in LDS Church history, remaining in that position for 56 years, until his death from pneumonia in 1911 in Salt Lake City. Among his accomplishments during this time was; a mission to Scandinavia, begun in 1862. Following his death, he was succeeded by his grandson, Hyrum G. Smith. Smith was buried in Salt Lake City. – Wikipedia

A. J. Anderson – about 1901

A.J. Anderson

A. J. Anderson

 

 

Do You Remember (Part 3)

Memorial Day was originally established as Decoration Day three years after the Civil War ended on May 5, 1868.  It is believed that date was chosen because flowers would be in bloom all over the country.  After World War I the day was expanded to honor those who have died in all American wars.  In 1971 Memorial Day was declared a national holiday by an act of Congress.  The National Moment of Remembrance encourages all Americans to pause at 3 p.m. local time as a way of putting the memorial back in Memorial Day.  Utahans place special significance on the Sego Lily that was perhaps placed on graves of early pioneers that they collected and ate the bulbous roots in the mid-1800’s during a crop-devouring plague of crickets in Utah.  As Grandma Anderson takes us for a May walk, we can almost visualize the peace found in the mountains as the children gather May flowers to be placed on their family members’ graves and to decorate and brighten up their home.  A simpler time for sure, but a reminder for us not to forget and appreciate those things in life that are most important.  And thanks to our service men and vets for the freedoms we enjoy here in the good old USA. – JD

Do You Remember

by Victoria Le Cheminant Anderson

 

Do You Remember – Going for a May Walk Upon the Hills?

Yes, a May walk could take place any day from the time the first buttercups peeked out in the very early spring or the late fall flowers were still in bloom.

Let’s pack a bit o’ lunch and a little bottle of water and spend a day upon the hills.  We must start real early so we can get to the peak before the sun gets too hot.  Oh yes, we must go right to the peak or this trek has been incomplete.  On the foot hills and over Hog’s Back, now the steep climb to the peak – out on the big flat rock.  What an inspiration!  No other point in all the country round could afford a finer view.  No, not even that memorable spot where Brigham Young said those historic words, “This is the place.”

What joy must have come to those tired, footsore Pioneers as they viewed the possibilities of this beautiful valley.

Let’s climb to the crest of the peak and view this valley.  Today we see another picture – the great area of sage brush has been converted into a productive valley, the like of which cannot be surpassed in the entire world.

It has been said we could be self-sustaining within these borders; the productiveness of this great valley is so complete.
“One hundred years of Mormonism.”
“And they shall come here from all parts of the world to enjoy the blessings and beauties of this valley.”

Truly our people have immortalized those words; the desert has been made to blossom as the rose.

Let’s sit down on the big flat rock and rest before we start down the hill.  What exciting stories have been exchanged on this wonderful old rock.

What joy in our memories when we are in tune with God and Nature.

The evening sun is falling so we must start down the hill and get home before dark for the longest part of the trip lies ahead.  A May Walk would never be complete until we had visited the graves of our loved ones.

Oh, don’t you remember a long time ago

When flowers bright grew on those hills?
Larkspurs and lilies and sweet buttercups,
Before we had smelters and mills.
We children would wander on mountains so green.
We’d pluck the wild flowers so gay,
We’d gather great armfuls of posies to place
On the graves come Decoration Day.

We shall always remember the Sego Lily, our state flower.  It grew in those hills in such great abundance in early days.  Besides the beauty of the Sego lily, its little bulb root did much to sustain the lives of our early pioneers.  The legends say –

Where Indians fought and bled,
This lovely flower reared its head
To be a lasting token of their peace
And war’s surcease.

We arrived home late in the evening tired and hungry; arms full of flavors, packets full of arrow heads and sea shells.

Arrow heads – a living testimony to the story of the Book of Mormon.

Sea shells – the evidence that this valley had at one time embodied the great Lake Bonneville.

What a wonderful day we have had.  Tired and weary we climb into bed with a prayer of gratitude for the day we have spent “upon the hills”.

V.LC.A.

 

Do You Remember –

World War I … when the boys left home to fight the battle that was to put an end to wars?

After many months of hard struggle came the Armistice.  Remember how happy we were when the boys came home and victory (?) was ours.  Some never came back home.  In wars, the supreme sacrifice must be made by some.

How thankful we were that the war to end all wars was over.

Remember our sorrow and disappointment when war clouds again began to arise in foreign lands.  Satan was busy preying on those would be aggressors who sought for unrighteous power and dominion; those who disregarded the commandments of God; those who did not love their neighbors as themselves, nor kept the Golden Rule.

Remember wars, riots and strikes are not started by the masses but by individuals who are seeking power and wealth.

Then came World War II.  The hope for a peaceful world was again shattered.

Remember the call for help from our European neighbors.  Remember Pearl Harbor?

Wars and rumors of wars, turmoil and upheaval were now stalking the whole world.  Even the elements seemed to be angered.  Peace was again taken from the earth and the prophecies, made by our ancient prophets, were being fulfilled.

Remember – we had been told, unless we kept the commandments of God, we should be left to the buffetings of Satan.

Remember – the promises made of this land, “And the Lord would not suffer that they should stop beyond the sea, in the wilderness, but he would that they should come forth even unto the land of promise, which was choice above all other lands, which the Lord had preserved for a righteous people; and he had sworn in his wrath unto the brother of Jared, that who so should possess this land of promise, from that time henceforth and forever, should serve him, the true and only God, or they should be swept off when the fullness of his wrath should come upon them.”  Book of Mormon – Ether, Ch. 2 verses 7-8.

We rejoice at the close of World War II and the return again of our sons to the good old U.S.A.

May we always remember those who have made the supreme sacrifice, those who are crippled and maimed and the loved ones of those who will never come home.

May this truly be a time of Thanksgiving, peace on earth and good will toward men.

Remember – he that taketh to the sword shall perish by the sword.

V.L.C.A.