James Hubbard served in the Southern States Mission from 1895 to 1897. In his mission acceptance letter to Wilford Woodruff, he wrote: “Dear Sir, I am in receipt of your favor, notifying me of my being chosen as a missionary to the Southern States. In reply will say, it is my desire to do as near as I can what I am called upon to do by those in authority in the Church.” Though Elder Hubbard was not assigned to Blount County and labored in surrounding areas throughout his mission, he visited members baptized in Blount County as a “traveling Elder,” to include: JC Garland, Samuel Harmon, Sarah Woody, John Goulder Harmon, Mary Harmon (Davis), Andrew Smith, as well as friends of the “Mormons” – who are mentioned in other missionary journals during this time period. Elder Hubbard provided valued insight into the first members here in Blount County. He also discussed his battle with tobacco early in his journal and his turning to the Lord to end the habit. He married Emma Pettingill in the Salt Lake Endowment House in 1880. At the time he received his call to serve, they already had seven children, one of which died at the age of two. They had two more after he returned home from his mission, raising eight children in Utah. He held various Church callings throughout his life, including Stake Patriarch. His original missionary journal was transcribed by students at Brigham Young University, in 1960, and is available on Family Search with other writings about his life. This journal below has been retyped and edited for greater understanding and with added punctuation and photographs, but mostly remains with as much authenticity as possible to the original transcription.
Mission Acceptance Letter
Departure for Mission
[Monday – 1 April 1895] Left home Apr[il] 1st, 1895. Traveled horseback to Garner [Train] Station. U.P.R.R. fare – $2.15. Arrived at Willard [at] 11 PM. Stayed at Father’s. Visited friends until Friday morning. Mt. Valini $2.
[Friday] – 5 [April 1895] Fare to conference – $1.75. Attended 3 meetings. Roomed at Davis House – $.50.
[Saturday] – 6 [April 1895] Attended morning meeting, afternoon visited county and city building – grand sight – 10 c[ents]. Supper – 15 c[ents]. [In the ]evening attended theater – 25 c[ents]. Poor.
[Sunday] – 7 [April 1895] Attended morning services. Afternoon crowded out of meeting. Back to Willard at 8 o’clock PM.
[Monday-Wednesday] – 8-10 [April 1895] At Willard, [Utah].
[Thursday] – 11 [April 1895] Bid goodby (sic) to father at 6:30 AM. Fare to Salt Lake [City] – $2.10. Arrived at Salt Lake [City] at 10:30. Went to President’s Office. Got ticket for Chattanooga – $24.75. Gave genea[logy at] Historian’s Office. Bought [illegible] etc. at juvenile office for my [illegible] at Z.C.M.I Basket and sweet oil – 55 c[ents]. Bot (sic) shirt etc. – $2.10.
[Friday] – 12 [April 1895] Went to the temple. Go[t] my mind refreshed on duties and covenants. Donate[d] $1. [At] 2 PM went to get set apart for my mission. Was ordained a Seventy and set apart by Apostle H[eber] J. Grant. Outline of instructions. We were cautioned against confidence men. They will play all kinds of smooth games to rob the victims of their confidence. We should keep aloof from women. Obtain the Spirit of the Lord and keep out of all sin. We should be very car[e]ful to retain a spotless character and, upon returning home, be dil[l]igent to observe the commands of God and not relax our dil[l]igent but strive to maintain the Spirit of the Lord. Paid for blessing – 50 c[ents]. We should not baptize any woman or child whose husband or parents object.
[Saturday] – 13 [April 1895] Walked the streets until tired. Rec[eive]d my certificate as a Seventy – 25 c[ents]. Bought lunch – 20 c[ents] – basket. Started from S[alt] L[ake] City [at] 7:40 PM. Arrived at Pueblo Col[orado at] 5 PM.
[Sunday] – 14 [April 1895] Bought lunch – 15 c[ents].
[Monday] – 15 [April 1895] Arrived at Kansas City [at] 5:30 PM. Lunch on the way – 55 c[ents]. Went to theater. Stayed at the [the] Midland.
[Tuesday] – 16 [April 1895] Took breakfast of oisters (sic) – 25 c[ents]. Looked around the city during the during the day, went to the top of a building 11 stories high and 2 floors higher in tower, which was a grand view of the city. Took train to Independence, [Missouri]. Visited temple block. It is [a] very nice location. Returned to Ka[nsa]s City. Took street car around in the city. [In the] evening, went to depot, bought bread and bananas – 35 c[ents]. Left Ka[nsa]s City at 10 PM for Memphis. Through mostly woodland, some nice farms. Some very nice woods near Memphis. Arrived at Memphis at 5 PM.
Arrival to Chattanooga
[Wednesday] – 17 [April 1895] Looked around the city a couple of hours. Went to the Missi[ss]ippi River. Saw some steamboats. Start[ed] from Memphis at 5 PM. Route taken D.R.G. to Pueblo, Col[orado] C.R.I. & P. to Ka[nsa]s City. K.C.F.S. & M. to Memphis. Memphis and Charl[e]ston to Chattanooga. For bananas – 25 c[ents], for tobacco on the whole – 20 c[ents], trying to quit. Very hard struggle. Hope to quit entirely soon. Arrived at Chattanooga at [the] Kennedy House [at] 9 AM.
[Thursday] – 18 April 1895 Soon were met by President [Elias S.] Kimbal[l], also Bro[ther David] Clark Hubbard of the office at Chattanooga. After all had had breakfast, we met in one of the hotel rooms. There Pres. [Elias S.] Kimbal[l] proceeded to instruct us. He gave us some very good and able advice. We should be pray[e]rful and faithful and God will bless us in our labors. Some business – as to getting suplys (sic) distributed properly – was attended to. Got cloth[e]s, shirt cuffs – $16.50. Paid 60 c[ents] to send old cloth[e]s home. After dinner, we went to visit Lookout Mt. about 2 1/2 miles southwest of this place. It affords a grand and beautiful scene of of (sic) the sur[r]ounding country, which is mostly a rolling wooded country. From different points of this hill can be seen three battlefields of the late war. In the museum near the top of the hill can be seen many old relics which tell a tale of severe fighting. We traveled on a cable car which goes directly up the mountain side. Fares for trip – 70 c[ents]. Returned to hotel.
Photo of Arriving Missionaries
[Friday] – 19 [April 1895] After breakfast all met to finish up business, received our appointments etc. Pres. [Elias S.] Kimbal[l] gave us some more instructions: We should go putting our trust in the Lord, depending on His aid for food, shelter, etc; we should go as commanded without purse or script (sic). The elders were all requested to speak, which they did. The power of God manifest our repentance, home sickness etc. I do not feel in the least homesick as yet but could not refrain from weeping, for the fear of the Lord was upon me very strongly. I have had the head ache very badly today but feel better now. I am awfully tempted with tobacco. I sincerely hope and pray that I may have strength to overcome the stuff. My book tracts etc. received here amounts to $12.33. My destination is East Tenn[essee]. The fare to where I am to go was $3.33. My bill here at hotel will be $2.75. I will have left to my credit here in the President’s office $14.66 for future use to buy tracts etc. We all voted to use $5 worth of books, tracts, etc per year distributing among the people. I hope to go forth and fulfil[l] my mission honorable before God and man. May the Lord assist me to do it is my constant prayer.
Arrival to Knoxville
[Saturday] – 20 [April 1895] The boys have all but myself and Brother Nordham departed for their various fields of labor. We start at 9:30 AM. I go into my field of labor without purse or script (sic). Will bid adieu to Clark and Chattanooga. I ran short of money before starting and drew of the office $2. At 9:30 proceeded on my way to Knoxvill[e]. Beautiful scenery on the way. Arrived at Knoxville at 12:55. Were met at depot by Elders [William Lehi] Hayes, [Joseph Cross] Orme, [John Roland] Halliday, and my brother, Elder [John] Hyrum Hubbard. Our greeting was very cordial. This is a very nice city. It is nice and green. The brethren here look very well and seem very hap[p]y. We stay in a rented room and buy our food.
Sunday – 21 [April 1895] Attended services at the Catholic Church at 10:30 AM. Their manner of worship is very peculiar. I do not see much sense in it with their bowing and kissing the Bible and other odd things. The sermon did not amount to much. After meeting, went home and took dinner. Rested [in] the afternoon. [In the] evening, attended the First Baptist Church. The services were very good. The sermon was for the young men. It was an answer to why the young men do not go to church and appeal to them to look after the things of God and their soul’s salvation.
Monday – 21 (sic) [22 April 1895] Went around the town. Saw the gas works, iron smelter and roler mills, which was very interesting. Also went through a street that is not so nice as it might be. Saw a little of the dark side of city life. Oh. The filth and corruptin there is in these cities is awful to contemplate. Returned to the quarters for dinner. Afternoon [was] resting, writing journal, reading, etc. Expense for grub while at Knoxville – 95 c[ents]. Drew on office at Chatt[anooga] for $1.
Arrival to Roane County
Tuesday – 23 [April 1895] Bid adieu to the brethren and started to our destination which is Kingston, Roane Co. by the way of the Tenn[essee] River on a steamboat. It was a beautiful day and the scenery very grand. The ride was exhilerating and pleasant in the extreme distance from Knoxville to this place. By the river is about 80 miles. Our ad[d]ress is at presnet (sic) Box 52 Kingston, Roan Co. Tenn[essee].
Wednesday – 24 [April 1895] First attempt at missionary labor. 1st went to P. O. and secured a box. 2nd went to find a place to get our washing done, which we did in the person of a Mrs. Wester, whose wife agreed to do our washing out in a southeaste[r]ly direction from Kingston to canvas[s] the people and warn them that the gospel has been restored and the judgements of God that shal[l] be poured out upon the earth. We were at an expense of $3.15 come from Knoxville to here. After completing arrangements at Kingston, we started out to do actual work in the field. We started out in a southeasterly direction and called at each house leaving with the people cards and tracts. We visited 6 families. Stayed with Mr. F. Smith. Were treated very kindly.
Thursday – 25 [April 1895] Continued our canvas[s]ing. Visited about 18 families. Were treated by some with contempt, by others with some warmpth (sic), very little spirit of enquiry manifested. The country is very rough and broken with poor soil lots of timber, very damp warm climate. We stayed all night with a Mr. Hall who is poor but treated us very kindly. We traveled about 7 or 8 miles. All is well.
Friday – 26 [April 1895] Started out about 7 o’clock to visit among the people. I feel as though our mission is not appreciated by the people. May God help and sustain us. We traveled about 4 or 5 miles. Visited 14 families, some of which were very poor and unenlihtened. Some treat us tolerable well, some cool. A very little spirit of inquiry shown, most of them self sanctified. Prevailing belief is no matter what sect of Christianity, all who profess will be saved. We saw a terrible case of idiocy. Oh! Horrible. Called upon a Mr. Rail for entertainment. Were treated very kindly by them. God bless them. We had a very good chat with them on the principles of the gospel. I think we made a good impression.
Saturday – 27 Apr[il 1895] About 7:30 bid good-by[e] to Mr. and Mrs. Rail, were invited to call again. Visited about 14 families. Walked about 5 or 6 miles, same old thing. Stayed at a Mr. Melton’s, were treated very kindly.
Sunday – 28 [April 1895] Talked with Mr. M. some upon the principles. Left his place about 8 o’clock. Went to the woods to rest [on] the Sab[b]ath day and pray to God for His comforting Spirit. Stayed in the woods until about 5 PM, then started out to canvas[s] to get a place to stay all night. We were refused entertainment 5 times, but at last got to stay with Mr. Allen, who treated us very nicely considering his circumstances.
Monday – 29 [April 1895] Started to Kingston to get mail and cloth[e]s changed. Stop[p]ed on the way to shave and black shoes. The distance is about 7 mi[les]. After arriving at Kingston, proceeded to the P. O. for mail. Was very much disappointed at not receiving any mail from home. Went to the place we get cloth[e]s washed and took a bath and changed cloth[e]s for washing – 20 c[ents]. Wrote a letter home. Started out again. Visited about 5 families. Stopped at a Mr. Johnson’s all night. Considerable talk on the gospel.
Tuesday – 30 Apr[il 1895] Started out visiting. Walked about 5 mi[les]. Visited 13 families. Stayed on Buck Creek at Mr. Norman’s who treated us very kindly. Shower in the evening.
Wednesday – 1 May [1895] Beautiful morning. Woods in full leaf bloom. Started out about 7 o’clock to canvas[s] as usual. Traveled about 7 mi[les]. Visited about 11 families. Made an appointment to preech (sic) on Sunday, May 5th, at the P. B. Church at Cave Creek. Stayed with William Hynes.
Thursday – 2 [May 1895] Fast day observed. Started out visiting in a northerly direction on the east side of our county. Visited about 24 houses. Got no dinner. Very weak both body and mind. Hor[r]ibly tempted for tobacco. Were refused entertainment 5 times. A fearful trial. I want to smoke so bad I can hardly endure it. Stayed with a Mr. Spracher, who was a smoker which made it worse for me.
Friday – 3 May [1895] Am almost on the point of yielding, in fact did yield to a few draws of the weed. Started out to visit about 6:30 in the morning. Traveled about 7 mi[les]. Visited about 20 families. Stayed at a Mr. Eldon’s who was very predudiced (sic). We left his place Saturday morning at 6:30.
[Saturday] – 4 May [1895] We traveled about 3 mi[les] to a Baptist Church and attended their meeting at 11 o’clock. The burder of their talk was a warning against the Mormons. I see opposition beginning to rise. We heard of two of our fellow laborers nearby. We went in search of them. Walked about 6 miles in the heat of the day but were unsuccessful in finding them. We then had to return to ward our country. We stayed at a Mr. Scarborough’s place, kindly treated.
Sunday – 5 May [1895] Started toward Cave Creek to fill our appointment. There were about 75 people in attendance at meeting. J[ohn] H[yrum] H[ubbard] did all the preaching. He gave a good sermon. We walked in all about 5 mi[les]. We stayed at Mr. Harvey’s, were treated very nicely but he offered us no oppertunity (sic) to talk about the gospel.
Monday – 6 [May 1895] In to Kingston to get mail and change cloth[e]s. Got a letter from Alma. For washing 30 [cents]. After having a bath and change cloth[e]s, and writing letters, we proceeded out in the country again. We stayed all night at a Mr. Wilson’s, a Baptist preacher who is a great talker, a very kind-h[e]arted believer in the Bible and nothing else.
Tuesday – 7 [May 1895] On our way [at] 7:30. Home sick but all [is] well. Traveled about 8 miles. Visited 18 families. Stayed at Mr. Curd’s who treated us very kindly and shows just a little interest in the work.
Wednesday – 8 [May 1895] Started out about 7 o’clock. Walked about 11 miles. Visited about 16 houses. Were refused entertainment twice. Stayed at Capt[ain] Waller’s, kind but cool. The weather is very damp since Sunday. The air is very damp and oppressive.
Thursday – 9 [May 1895] Started to travel about 7 o’clock. Very foggy this morning. Traveled about 6 miles. Visited about 19 families. Arranged for meeting at Bradbury School House for Sunday [the] 12[th]. Stayed at a Mr. Griscol’s, a very kind and clever man.
Friday – 10 [May 1895] Started at about 1/2 past 7 o’clock. Traveled about 5 miles. Visited 14 families. Met a preacher by [the] name of Kate who pitched us in great shape, whose only arguement (sic) was to defame the c[h]aracter of Joseph Smith and his followers. Truly they are blind leaders of the blind. Stayed at Mr. Rayburn’s place who was very kind. Truly there are some of the kindest h[e]arted people in this country that I ever saw.
Saturd[a]y – 11 [May 1895] Started about 7 on our journey again. Walked about 7 miles. Visited 7 familes. Met a Baptist preacher who sailed into us rough shod. Inconsistency untold. Man has no agency but is elected to salvation or hell. I think not. Got shoes fixed – 5 c[ents]. Stayed at Mr. Royl’s, the second visit to him, he seems favorable.
Sunday – 12 [May 1895] Left Mr. Rail’s to walk a distance of about 7 miles to place of holding meeting. Bradbury Meeting called to order about 2 o’clock. Singing, opening, etc. I spoke a few words telling our belief. Elder [John] Hyrum [Hubbard] then spoke about an hour. The Spirit of God was strongly manifest evidently. There were some congenial spirits there who were anxious to hear the truth. After [the] meeting we had three invitations to stop over, the first [time] that has occur[r]ed. One man had Orson Prat[t]’s works he had left to him by a relative. He wanted to hear more. We stayed at a Mr. Eldon’s who treated us royally.
Monday – 13 [May 1895] On our way at about 8 o’clock. Walked about 7 miles. Visited 4 families. Stayed all night at Mr. [illegible].
Tuesday – 14 [May 1895] On our way at about 8 o’clock, traveling through from house to house. This country has been almost all washed away. There has been lots of rain last week. We traveled about 7 miles. Visited 15 families. Stayed all night at Mr. Ladd’s, kind but cool in regard to the gospel.
Wednesday – 15 [May 1895] Started in to Kingston, arrived at 10 o’clock. Got a letter from home. Whoopee. Washing for last week – 25 c[ents]. After writing, shaving, changing, etc, we started to canvas[s] the town of Kingston. We visited 6 families. Traveled about 10 miles and stayed at a Mr. Davis’ who is very poor but a good soul. God bless him.
Thursday – 16 [May 1895] Back to Kingston to canvas[s]. Rainy day, not much success. Left town about 1 o’clock, out in the country about 6 miles, to find a place to stop. Stopped with a Mr. Baily [in] Poplar Springs.
Friday – 17 [May 1895] Traveled about 7 miles. Visited 10 families. Met with one young man who was full of bitterness created by J[ames] W[illiam] Buel’s history of the Mormons. Stayed with Mr. Peter Stalcup who has read O[rson] Prat[t]’s works and is now converted. He is very poor but very kind-hearted and reasonable. May God bless him and us that we do him good.
Saturday – 18 May [1895] After having talked with Mr. Stalcup considerable on the principles of the gospel, we were on our way. Oh what a heavenly feeling it brings to an Elder to meet with a friend who is investigating. Traveled about 5 miles. Spent most of the day studying. Stayed at Sam Johnston’s.
Sunday – 19 [May 1895] Held meeting at Shady Grove School House. Had a good crowd of listeners. Was very much depressed in my speaking. [John] Hyrum [Hubbard] gave them a good sermon. We were invited home by James Johnston, where we stayed all night. These people are very kind and hospitable to strangers.
Monday – 20 [May 1895] Went into Kingston to canvas[s]. Visited about 20 families, were received generally with kindness. Had some good chats. Went out into country about 4 miles to get entertainment. In all we traveled about 7 miles. I am beginning to feel tolerable well in my labors. I do not hanker seriously for tobacco. I think I will be able to conquor (sic). God help me.
Tuesday – 21 [May 1895] Back to Kingston again. Were received very coolly (sic) in the town today. We met a M. S. Minister. I there learned how they spiritualize the Bible which constitutes a denial of the same. Surely they are in a queer state of mind religiously, having a form of Godliness but denying the power thereof. We canvassed about 36 houses. Traveled 8 miles. got very tired. Stayed all night at Mr. Higler’s.
Wednesday – 22 [May 1895] Went back to town and finished canvas[s]ing the town. Visited 15 families. Went and changed cloth[e]s and went out releived (sic). Traveled 10 miles and stayed at Mr. Norman’s again. He is kind but cool, not inclined to investigate.
Thursday – 23 [May 1895] Started out to work in the country. Stopped in the woods to fix up our shoes. Visited 10 families. Walked about 6 miles. Met some extreme bitterness and one man who seemed interested.
Friday – 24 [May 1895] Rainy and muddy this morning. Stopped raining about 11 o’clock. We started to get over to Oral to meet on the morrow two of our friends who are laboring in Louden (sic) Co. Walked about 5 miles. Got into a school house and wrote some letters home. Stayed all night at Mr. Blackburn’s.
Saturday – 25 [May 1895] Rain traveled about 4 miles up to Oral where we met Elders [Frederick Moroni] Houston and [Thomas Rawlings] Smith. We had a good time. Visited all day. In the evening we changed partners and I and Elder [Frederick Moroni] Houston stayed at friend Stalcup’s, she is converted, is now reading the Book of Mormon.
Sunday – 26 [May 1895] We all four stayed at Stalcup’s until noon when Elder [John] H[yrum Hubbard] went with Elder [Frederick Moroni] Houston over into Louden (sic) and Elder [Thomas Rawlings] Smith and I went a distance of 6 miles to the Union Church to hold [a] meeting. After meeting, Mr. Tutterow invited us home. He is very kind and open-hearted.
Monday – 27 [May 1895] Traveled about 7 miles. Visited 11 families and had an enjoyable time with Mr. Kates where we stayed all night.
Tuesday – 28 [May 1895] Went into Kingston and got letter [from] home, all [is] well. Also rec[eived] a letter from D. C. H. and Pres. [Elias S.] Kimbal[l] enclosing $5.50 for J[ohn] H[yrum] H[ubbard]. We then went south of the Tennessee River to work. We traveled about 12 miles. Visited 8 families. Stayed at an old gent’s place on the banks of the old Tennessee.
Wednesday – 29 [May 1895] Off down the river to canvass. We visited 16 families and traveled about 8 miles. We met with a very kind family in the bend by [the] name [of] Chapman who we think will investigate. We stayed at Mr. Durham’s, kind but calm.
Thursday – 30 [May 1895] Out at six o’clock. Walked about 8 miles working down [the] Tennessee. Visited 21 families.
Friday – 31 [May 1895] Traveled about 10 miles in a big bend in the river. Visited 16 families, all of who were poor renters except on. The people in this part are nearly all renters. They are kind and hospitable. May God reward them.
Saturday – 1 June [1895] Started out at six o’clock for Pattie’s Gap to meet the boys tomorrow. Traveled about 8 miles. Visited five families. Very hot. Stayed in the woods most of the day. Stayed at a Mr. Kyle’s.
Sunday – 2 June [1895] Camped in the woods near the appointed meeting place and waited for the boys who came about noon. We had a very good time. In the evening we separated. Elder J[ohn] H[yrum] H[ubbard] and I got together. We walked about 2 miles. Canvassed 2 houses. Stayed at Mr. Ward’s place.
Monday – 3 [June 1895] Started out to work along Co. line from Pattie’s Gap to Tenn[essee] R[iver]. Visited 12 families. Traveled 5 miles. Stayed at Mr. Taylor’s, a Campbellite (sic). We had a long talk on the gospel. They are nearer right than some and have some good logic. They are persecuted by the world. They have a nearer form of Godliness but deny the power thereof.
Tuesday – 4 [June 1895] Went into Kingston to get cloth[e]s changed etc. Disappointed in not getting any mail. Bought coat vest and drawers – $3.90. The weather has been very hot the past week. From Kingston we proceeded south of the river again, fer[r]age 20 c[ents], washing 55 c[ents], p[ai]d 30 c[ents], bal[ance] due Wester June 4[th] 25 c[ents]. Stayed at Mr. Chapman’s.
Wednesday – 5 [June 1895] Made arrangements to have washing done at Chapmans. We had lots of gospel talk with them. It rains today. After it stopped raining we proceeded on our way very muddy. We visited 9 families. Traveled about 6 miles. Stayed all night at Mr. Bailey’s place, very kind but not interested in our work enough to talk.
Thursday – 6 [June 1895] Fasting this morning. Traveled about 7 miles. Visited about 20 families. Met some cranks who treated us with silent contempt. That is all right. We don’t care. Stayed all night at Mr. Cook’s.
Friday – 7 [June 1895] Started out to canvas[s] again very early. A long days work without particular incident. Visited 30 families, walked 8 or 10 miles. Stayed all night at Mr. Rose, kind.
Saturday – 8 [June 1895] Started at 6 o’clock. Canvassed down Stump Creek to Tenn[essee] R[iver]. Thence up r[iver] to Paint Rock Creek. Rested and read considerable. Traveled 6 miles. Visited 13 families. Stayed at Mr. [illegible].
Sunday – 9 [June 1895] Started at 7 o’clock to go to Paint Rock Church to hold meetings. Meeting held at 11:50 AM, present also at 8 PM. 25 present. Mr. Taylor invited home where we stayed all night, treatment [was] good [and there was] very good spirit in [the] meetings. Weather warm and nice.
Monday – 10 June [1895] At Fossil P. O. reporting. Canvassed down Paint Rock Creek to river a distance of about 5 or 6 miles. Visited 12 families, some of whom were very predudiced (sic) and refused our testimonies. A man in good circumstances invited us to stop over with him, which we did. Truly the predudice (sic) against us is dying out. I am so glad and thankful to God for it.
Tuesday – 11 [June 1895] Started East to Co. line 1 mile. Visited a very pleasant family on the banks of [the] river. Traveled about 6 mi[les]. Visited 8 families, among whom was an atheist of the rankest type. He produces some very hard arguement (sic) against the Bible. Stayed over at Mr. Sawhosn’s who is also a disbeliever.
Wedn[e]sday – 12 [June 1895] Started off at about 7 o’clock. I must admit I am sorely tried this morning. Traveled about 7 or 8 miles. Visited 19 families. I get to feel better. We stayed at a Mr. Barnard’s and receive[d] very good treatment. I have no cause to complain.
Thursday – 13 [June 1895] Started to post office. Received a letter of 7th June, all were well. Also from father who was well. Wrote a letter home. Traveled about 12 miles. Visited 5 families. Went at night to a prayer meeting of foolish traditions, such mockery. Stayed at Mr. Fuller’s.
Friday – 14 [June 1895] Started out to canvas[s]ing at 1/2 past five o’clock. Found some people in bed. I am very tired this morning as we did not get to sleep more than 4 hours. We traveled about 6 miles. Visited 21 families. Were treated kindly. Stayed all night at Mr. Holland’s in Paint Rock Valley. We are not getting so many come-backs on this side of the river.
Saturday – 15 [June 1895] Started out about 7 o’clock. Traveled about 7 miles. Visited 12 families. Stayed at Mr. Kyle’s. Some interesting conversation had on religion and other topics.
Sunday – 16 June [1895] Went to Patties Gap P. O. to mail some letters, thence to Pleasant Hill to hold [a] meeting. Arrived at the meeting place at 3 PM. Found 7 persons to hear us preach. We preached to them and went home with Mr. Sharp.
Monday – 17 [June 1895] Went back to P[atties] G[ap] P. O. to mail report, then came back to the same valley to canvas[s]. We met one crank today who had enough without religion. Traveled 5 miles. Visited 14 families. Stayed at a Mr. Lewis in Hurricane Valley.
Tuesday – 18 [June 1895] Started up this valley toward Kingston. Canvassed to cross Road then over into Ryleys Creek Valley. Going toward Megs Co. south of J. H. Went to post office 3 miles out of the way. Got no mail. Traveled about 10 miles. Visited 12 families. Met a religious crank, Fuller by name. Had quite [a] hard time to get in but got to stay at Mr. Williams who charged us $1.
Wednesday – 19 [June 1895] At breakfast at 4:30. Started at 7 AM. Canvassed down the valley to Megs Co. Crossed over ridge to river valley. Meet (sic) some cool treatment. About 6 miles. Visited 12 families. Stayed at Mr. Hornsby’s, cool treatment.
Thursday – 20 [June 1895] Went into bend of river at Jackson’s Ferry. We are near Half Moon Island which is seven miles long. We traveled about 70 miles up the river towards Kingston. We are now through with this side of the river. Visited 11 families. Our treatment has not been very good. Hard to get to stay all night.
Friday – 21 [June 1895] Started at 6 AM over ridge to Welker P. O. thence to Kingston. No mail from Kingston. To James Johnston’s. Traveled about 12 miles. Visited 2 families. Stayed at Johnston’s who is very clever but not at all interested in our work.
Sat[urday] – 22 June [1895] Started about 7 AM to go over toward Mr. Stalcup’s. Went into woods to fix a shoe and then to Hamilton’s School House, where we spend several hours reading. I have read twice the sermon of [B. H.] Roberts upon sin and repentance. It is a master sermon. We went from above place to Mr. Ladds, thence by Poplar Springs over ridge to Bradbury, a distance of about 6 miles. We stayed at a Mr. Wrights.
Sunday – 23 [June 1895] Went with Mr. Wright to S[unday] School. Stayed with Mr. Wright nearly all day. He is a very kind gentleman and somewhat interested. Went to a creek and had a bath and then to our friend’s, Stalcup’s, for the night. He is all right. It seems to call upon a friend. God bless him.
Monday – 24 [June 1895] Went from Bro[ther] Stalcup’s to Kingston. Received a letter from home date[d] June 15. Changed cloth[e]s and then started to Harriman. Went out about 4 miles and stayed with a Mr. Erickson, a Swede who treated us very kindly.
[Tuesday – 25 June 1895] Harriman about 9 AM, first went to see the mayor who received us very kindly. After looking over the city we commenced our visiting. The people here are cold and bitter but do not break out. They are mostly from the North, generally rich. We traveled about 5 miles. Visited 67 families, nearly one half of which refused to take tracts.
Wedn[e]sday – 25 (sic) [June 1895] Arose and ate our breakfast of sardines, tomatoes, and bread. got ourselves ready and started in again. We visited 118 families. treatment generally cool but not bad except in a few instances they are insulting.
Thursday – 27 [June 1895] We visited 89 families, cool and arist[o]cratic. I met one man who got cranky and ordered me away from his house. We got very near though. Thank God.
Friday – 28 [June 1895] Finished work in Harriman. Went cut and rested and wrote letters home in evening started toward Kingston. Travel[e]d about 5 miles. Visited 11 families. Were three times refused entertainment. Stayed at Mr. Godard’s way out in bend of Emory R[iver].
Saturday – 29 [June 1895] On our way for Kingston. Arrived at Kingston got mail for F. M. H. in regard to summer trip. Prepared to go for Bro[ther] Cook’s. From thence to go on my tour in company of Elder [Frederick Moroni] Houston. Fixed up my big grip to move it to Bro[ther] Stalcup’s. Went out about 1/2 way. Left big grip and went down to Sam Johnson’s to stay. Traveled about 12 miles. Mr. Johnson is cool.
Sunday – 30 [June 1895] On our way from Johnson’s for Stalcup’s left grip and went to Mr. James Curds to stay overnight. Traveled about 8 miles.
Monday – 1 July [1895] Went back to Mr. Stalcup’s, thence over the Clinch River to Mr. Dickinson’s, a half-brother to Mr. Stalcup’s, who is very clever. We had a very nice time talking and fishing. Stayed overnight with Mr. Dickinson.
Tuesday – 2 [July 1895] Went by Bro[ther] Stalcup’s, by way of there, by way of Paint Rock Ferry on Tenn[essee] R[iver], thence by Sweet Water to Bro[ther] Cook’s in Munroe (sic) Co. Bro[ther] Cook is a nice man. There are some of his neighbors interested. Walked a distance of 32 miles. Arrived at Bro[ther] Cook’s at about 9 PM.
Wedn[e]sday – 3 [June 1895] Spent the day resting and cleaning up. In pleasant conversation with Elders [Frederick Moroni] Houston and [Thomas Rawlings] Smith. Had a good day. In the evening we held [a] meeting, a few of the neighbors being present. Two of us were invited to go home with Mr. McCane, a very good friend who is investigating.
Thursday – 4 [July 1895] Dawned bright and glorius (sic), all is well. We hoed some corn for Bro[ther] Cook in [the] morning. Rested [in] afternoon. Evening sung some hym[n]s. Had some reciting from J[ohn] H[yrum] H[ubbard] and F[rederick] M[oroni] H[ouston].
In Blount County with JC Garland, Sarah Woody and Samuel Harmon
Friday – 5 [July 1895] Started in company of Elder [Frederick Moroni] Houston to Bro[ther Joseph John Calvin (JC)] Garland‘s, a distance of about 56 miles.
Saturday – 6 [July 1895] Arrived 7:30 PM in an easterly course. It is east of Chilhowee Mt. in Millers Cove, Blount Co., Tenn[essee]. Bro[ther Joseph John Calvin (JC)] Garland is a large raw-boned man. A typical Southerner. A good Saint and has a heart like an ox. We were pained upon arrived at [Joseph John Calvin (JC)] Garland‘s to find our beloved brother, W[illiam] L[ehi] Hayes, down with fever. Also with him we found Elders [Joseph Cross] Orme and [John Roland] Halliday. We were delighted to see them.
Sunday – 7 [July 1895] Resting today. Nothing of interest transpiring.
Monday – 8 [July 1895] Elder [William Lehi] H[ayes is] a little better. Went after breakfast with Bro[ther Joseph John Calvin (JC)] Garland to cut some oats. After which he and I went into the hills to try to get a sheep, which we did after a hard hunt. The sheep, though domestic, are very wild and the woods so thick they were very hard to find and follow. Continual prayer in behalf of Bro[ther William Lehi] Hayes.
Tuesday – 9 [July 1895] I bound oats most all day for Bro[ther Joseph John Calvin (JC)] Garland. Bro[ther William Lehi] Hayes is improving. Elder [Joseph Cross] Orme and I went a distance of about a mile to stay with Mr. [Nathan] Demps[e]y Harris, a very poor but clever man whose wife, [Sarah Margaret Woody], belongs to the Church.
Wednesday – 10 [July 1895] Bro[ther Joseph John Calvin (JC)] Garland went to Knoxville to appear at U.S. Court to a charge of selling tobacco. Elder [Joseph Cross] Orme went with him to go home to Zion. God speed him on his way. Elder [Frederick Moroni] Houston also went with Bro[ther Joseph John Calvin (JC)] G[arland] but will return with him. Elder [William Lehi] Hayes [is] still improving. I think he will soon be up, although he is very low-spirited. I spent 1/2 an hour fixing my pants.
Thursday – 11 [July 1895] Wrote a letter home and went to Millers P. O. Was very happy to receive two letters from home. All were well, also very much delighted to receive their photograph. I received also a letter from the office enclosing $5. I went to Gambols P. O., thence to a store, where I bought a pair of shoes for $2. Returned to Bro[ther Joseph John Calvin (JC)] Garland‘s. Went to stay with Bro[ther] Sam[uel Patterson] Harmon, he is very poor. God bless them.
Friday – 12 [July 1895] Returned to Bro[ther Joseph John Calvin (JC)] G[arland]‘s. Elder [William Lehi] Hayes is much better. Rested and studied all day. Remained here all night.
Saturday – 13 [July 1895] Spent the forepart of the day reading etc. [In the] afternoon I bound oats for Bro[ther Joseph John Calvin (JC)] Garland. Remained here all night.
Sunday – 14 [July 1895] The whole [Garland] family and 5 elders resting and reading and studying the gospel.
Monday – 15 [July 1895] Nothing of interest. Elder [William Lehi] Hayes [is] slowly improving. Elder [Erastus Snow] Christensen went to [the] P. O. He got some mail for J[ohn] R[oland] H[alliday] and W[illiam] L[ehi] H[ayes], [and] some from Pres. [Elias S.] K[imball] from the office [who is] sending some medicine. This is our last day here I expect. We had a good time while here. Bro[ther Joseph John Calvin (JC)] Garland is so good. He would like to have all the Elders here.
Tuesday – 16 [July 1895] Started out to go over the m[oun]t[ain]s to Swain Co, NC. Traveled about 15 miles in a SE direction into Cades Cove, a very pretty little valley just under the foot of the Great Smoky Mountain. We got entertainment with Mr. John Anthony Jr who was very kind to us.
Wedn[e]sday – 17 [July 1895] Started on our journey at 1/2 pas six. Went up a canyon past a saw mill and followed a trail up the mountain to the summit, thence down a very steep zigzag trail through deep dark laurel gulches on Eagle Creek to Mr. Q. Rose’s place, where we took dinner. The scenery through this route is very nice, putting one much in mind of home only much more timber here. From Rose’s we passed on down Eagle Creek a distance of about 2 miles, then, baring to left over hill and across canyons, we finally arrived at Mr. Cogdale’s place near Hazel Creek, where we stayed all night and were treated very kindly and invited back. Traveled about 12 miles, very hard and rough traveling.
Outside Blount County
Thursday – 18 [July 1895] Off early on our journey. Four miles, landing us on the banks of the Little Tennessee River high in the m[oun]t[ain]s of North Carolina in Swain Co where President [Wilford] Woodruff once traveled and preached, thence up the river to forks, thence up the Tuckasege[e] R[iver]. Traveling about 21 miles, we stopped at Capt. Everet[t’]s summer camp in the hills near the river, 5 miles below Bryson City.
Friday – 19 [July 1895] Continueing (sic) on up the river to Whittier, thence up Connelly’s Creek to the south, we arrived at Sister Johnston’s, where we were received very kindly and given the privilege of resting our tired feet and bodies. Mr. John Johnston is very friendly but does not belong to the Church. Sister Johnston seems to be very kind and faithful.
Saturday – 20 [July 1895] Remained at Mr. Johnston’s resting, reading, and having all the good time we could. Stayed all night here.
Sunday – 21 [July 1895] Stayed with Mr. Johnston nearly all day. In evening went to Mrs. Isabel Herron’s and stayed all night with her. She is old and feeble. Her son, Thomas, is kind and obliging. He seems to be converted but don’t say anything about baptism.
Monday – 22 [July 1895] Went down to Whittier P. O. to post letters to wife [and] one to Bishop. Came back and took dinner at Mr. Johnston’s. [In] afternoon lots of rain. [In] evening went to Mr. Turpin’s to stay all night. We could get no talk out of either he or Mr. Johnston. They seem to know we represent the only religion, but they are in no hurry, the same with Mr. Herron.
Tuesday – 23 [July 1895] Bid adieu to the folks here and went up the creek to see friend Gunter and Sister Parris, a distance of about 3 miles, right back into the m[oun]t[ain]s. Arrived at Mr. Gunter’s at about 11 AM. Stayed with him [the] balance of day and night. Had some talk with him upon religion. He believes in our doctrine, I think, but has the idea of graded reward and punishment and talks as though he is satisfied to risk secondary salvation.
Wednesday – 24 [July 1895] Went from here to Mr. Parris’ place and from there I went down to Whitt[i]er to get my watch fixed again. The spring slipped. The tinker put in a new spring. I returned [again because] the spring broke before night. Stayed over at Mr. Parris’.
Thursday – 25 [July 1895] Spent the day at Mr. Pa[rri]s’. Sister Parris seems to be a good industrious woman and firm in her belief. Mr. Parris is kind and talkitive (sic) but shallow religiously.
Friday – 26 [July 1895] Went up to Mr. Gunter’s again where we stopped for dinner. After dinner we took our leave of Connelly’s Creek and crossed over the ridge on to Barker’s Creek, going down same to river thence up the river to Dillaborough, where we received mail from home. Found Bro[ther] Boone’s place, where we were welcomed by Sister Boone who seemed to be very glad to see us. We had an interesting conversation with Mr. Wallace. Sister Victoria Wakaster was here also, she and her sister. Sister Boone told us of the miraculous healing of the broken arm of Victoria.
Saturday – 27 [July 1895] Stayed at Bro[ther] Boone’s. Wrote letter home, reading etc.
Sunday – 28 [July 1895] Passed the day reading etc. Bro[ther] Boone arrived home wet as a drowned rat, having been thrown into the river by his mule falling. We had a splendid time in his company this evening.
Monday – 29 [July 1895] Bro[ther] Boone fixed our shoes for us. I had another spring put into my watch. Shoes and watch cost me $1.25.
Tuesday – 20 [July 1895] It is raining this morning. All is well but I get very lonesome some days. But I enjoy more of the Spirit of the Lord now. I see the necessity of the labor more fully. May God assert me to bear it.
Wedn[e]sday – 31 July [1895] Went back on Barker’s Creek. Took dinner with Mrs. Gunter, sister-in-law to Marion Gunter. She has a son in Utah. Thence, over the ridge to Marion Gunter’s where we stayed and were received kindly.
Thursday – 1 [August 1895] Very cool morning. Stayed around Mr. gunter’s, went to his corn mill, which is a queer little affair. In the afternoon we took our leave of Uncle Marion and Aunt Eliza Gunter, who cordially invited us to return. Went over the ridge and stayed with Widow Gunter and her son Samuel.
Friday – 2 [August 1895] Back to Dillsboro to Bro[ther] Boone’s. Spent the day writing, reading, etc.
Saturday – 3 [August 1895] Went to Bro[ther] Wacaster’s, a distance of about 15 miles up the road to a little above the Halls Station, thence through the m[oun]t[ain]s about 6 miles. The Wacaster family are very kind and seem to be very faithful. They are typical mountain people, very poor with little education. They are wild to get out to Utah.
Sunday – 4 [August 1895] Spent the day very pleasantly conversing with the family reading and so on.
Monday – 5 [August 1895] Resting, reading etc. Bro[ther] W[acaster] bro[ugh]t in 2 ground hogs.
Tuesday – 6 [August 1895] Nothing new, only we are living on ground hog and potatoes some of the time. Today I ate my first meal without bread.
Wednesday – 7 [August 1895] Same old thing. There is some perplexing questions for us to solve. Bro[ther] W[acaster] is very poor and a poor manager. He spends his time hunting sang, ground hogs, and bees. They are filthy and solven in their habits. They live from hand to mouth. Alice, his second daughter, is married and wants to leave her husband because he won’t support her and mistreats her because she is a Mormon. The women folks are earnest in theif faith and want to emigrate very badly. Alice is determined to leave her man and go if she can get means to go with. Talk about ignorance here, we find it among these mountain people.
Thursday – 8 [August 1895] Stayed around and read the gospel, gaining much instruction.
Friday – 9 [August 1895] Went over the mountains about 3 miles to gather huckleberries in company of four of Bro[ther] W[acaster’s] family. Had a good time. Got a nice lot of huckleberries, the finest I ever saw. God wet in the rain.
Saturday – 10 [August 1895] Went with Bro[ther] W[acaster] to hunt a bee tree. After hunting a few hours, it commenced to rain and we were obliged to give up the hunt and return. We got somewhat wet on the way.
Sunday – 11 [August 1895] Read a sermon by O[rson] F. Whitney, a beautiful sermon. Wrote a letter home.
Monday – 12 [August 1895] Started to Cache Co., Tenn[essee]. Sister Wacaster felt very bad at parting with us. It was with a deep feeling of sorrow that we bid them good-bye. We traveled a northeasterly direction across the m[oun]t[ain]s to Allens Creek, thence down said creek to Waynesville. From there to left over ridge to Johnathan’s Creek down to Mr. James Boyed’s where we stayed overnight.
Tuesday – 13 [August 1895] Crossing Johnathan’s Creek at a mill went up a cove creek over m[oun]t[ain] to Catalooch Creek right across said creek up the side of Mt. Starland and down about 5 mil[es] to Mr. White’s where we stayed.
Wednesday – 14 [August 1895] And down the main road to Mrs. Jenkin’s, then to right dow[n] branch to river and Bro[ther] Naylon’s where we arrived at about 12 AM. Found [them] all well and glad to see us. The distance from Bro[ther] W[ataker’s] to here is about 48 miles. Upon arriving here, I was very much pleased to receive mail from home. The route is mountainous and picturesque. My left foot got very lame. Elder [Edward William] Payne and [Robert Newton] Egbert came in and we had a very cordial meeting with them. We stayed overnight with Bro[ther] E. W. Naillon.
Thursday – 15 [August 1895] Spent a very enjoyable day with the folks here. Went across Pigeon River to Bro[ther] Jos[eph Reed Vance] Naillon‘s to stay all night.
Friday – 16 [August 1895] Held meeting with the Saints here. Had a good time with about 8 or 10 in attendance. Went to Mr. Setherwood’s to stay all night.
Saturday – 17 [August 1895] Crossed back to old Bro[ther Joseph Reed Vance] Naillon. Wrote letter home. These folks here are very poor, but most of them are midling (sic) faithful.
Sunday – 18 [August 1895] A few of the Saints gathered here at Bro[ther Joseph Reed Vance] Naillon’s to hold Sunday School. But a few of those who came attended. After dinner we held [a] meeting with them. Elder [Frederick Moroni] Houston spoke upon the pre-existence of spirit. Then I and Elder [Robert Newton] Egbert spoke a few words, having pretty good attendance and attention. After [the] meeting, Elder [Robert Newton] Egbert and I went to Geo[rge Francis] Naillon‘s to stay overnight, we had a very good evening with them.
Monday – 19 [August 1895] Went to [the] P. O. and back to Bro[ther Jonathan] Woody‘s where we took dinner. We then went to Mr. [James Bennett] Laws to stay overnight, a distance of about 10 miles.
Tuesday – 20 [August 1895] Had a feast of peaches. Left Mr. [James Bennett] Laws and went to Mr. Arrington. These gentlemen are very friendly investigators. Stayed at Mr. Arrington’s all night.
Wednesday – 21 [August 1895] Returned by way of Mr. [James Bennett] Laws where we took dinner and had a conversation with Sister Sarah Ann [Laws] Naillon, Mr. [James Bennett] Laws‘ daughter. [Then] to Bro[ther Joseph Reed Vance] Naillon‘s where we stayed all night. Sister Marg[a]ret Naillon [Sutton] did our washing, she is the most faithful of all these folks. We promised her a picture of the Elders at conference.
Thursday – 22 [August 1895] Returned again to Mr. Ar[r]ington’s by way of big road. 12 miles. Was sick all night and next morning.
Friday – 23 [August 1895] Remained at Ar[r]ington’s until after dinner when, I being better, we departed over the m[oun]t[ain]s to the west to Sister Gilispie’s, [illegible] miles. We got in company with Elders C. and S. at a Brother Mantooth’s place.
Saturday – 24 [August 1895] Traveled to the west by south toward Sevierville. Traveled about 22 miles and stayed at a Mr. Dicky’s place. He treated us very kindly. He told us a great deal of his own sins and also the sins of society. He being quite wealthy, was prepared to know something about society in high circles. It is most shocking to contemplate the condition of the world, and yet, they cry those awful Mormons.
Sunday – 25 [August 1895] Under stress of circumstances we continued our journey on through Sevierville and over to [the] south up Walden’s Creek to Bro[ther] and Sister Clinton’s, distance 13 miles. We were very much pleased and surprised to meet Elders [John Matthew Johnson] Allen, [James Alma] Muir, [George Barlow] Wintle and [Ernest Rupert] Needham. Bro[ther] Clinton was real sick. The above-named Elders baptized Bro[ther] and Sister Morgan of Sevier Co., east of Sevierville. Bro[ther] Clinton would also have been baptized if he had been well enough to go to the water.
In Blount County with JC Garland
Monday – 26 [August 1895] Continued our journey SW into Blount Co. to Bro[ther Joseph John Calvin (JC)] Garland‘s, distance 18 miles. The other four Elders above-named, making eight of us traveling together, it was a plumb sight in the world. We arrived at Bro[ther Joseph John Calvin (JC)] G[arland]‘s all well and happy, but very much disappointed at not finding Elders [William Lehi] Hayes and [John Roland] Halliday here. Elder [William Lehi] Hayes had just departed for home. We are all glad that he is to go.
Tuesday – 27 [August 1895] All hands resting and having a general good time preparitory (sic) to separating to our various fields of labor. May God go with us. The varied experiences of our last six weeks will long be remembered.
Wednesday – 28 [August 1895] I and Elder [Robert Newton] Egbert with Elders [George Barlow] Wintle and Woodward down to Gambol’s P. O., they going on their way to Scott Co, we returning.
Thursday – 29 [August 1895] Elders [Edward William] Payne, [Robert Newton] Egbert, [Thomas Rawlings] Smith and [Ernest Rupert] Needham took their departure for Knoxville. I feel lonely since they left but trust the Lord will remain with me.
Friday – 30 [August 1895] Stayed at Bro[ther Joseph John Calvin (JC)] G[arland]‘s until after dinner. Then, Elder [John Matthew Johnson] Allen, Bro[ther Joseph John Calvin (JC)] G[arland] and I went to Tho[mas] Hear[o]n‘s to pay him a visit. He is a nice old gentleman. Seems to be converted but puts off baptism. I know not why.
Saturday – 31 [August 1895] Returned to Bro[Joseph John Calvin (JC)] G[arland]‘s. Mr. [Thomas] Hear[o]n accompanying us. Mail came from President [John Roland] Halliday informing us of J[ohn] H[yrum] H[ubbard] having his release and that I will be separated from Elder [Frederick Moroni] Houston. I feel to thank the Lord that I have been considered worthy to bear His gospel to the nations. I know that it will prove a great blessing to one, if I can only profit by the experience gained here.
Sunday – 1 [September 1895] Remained at Bro[ther Joseph John Calvin (JC)] Garland‘s. [In the] afternoon held a meeting, very few in attendance but had a good time. Elders [John Matthew Johnson] Allen and [James Alma] Muir took their departure for Sevier[e] Co.
Monday – 2 [September 1895] Went to the P. O. expecting to hear from Pres. [John Roland] Halliday but were disappointed.
Tuesday – 3 [September 1895] I went along to [the] P. O. getting no mail. Spent the balance of [the] day studying. Elder H. went with Bro[ther Joseph John Calvin (JC)] G[arland] hunting stock.
Wednesday – 4 [September 1895] Helped Bro[ther Joseph John Calvin (JC)] G[arland] shear his sheep. Last night Elders [Alfred Woodock] Nebeker and Bertosl arrived here bringing instructions for us to proceed. Elder N. and I to Roane Co. Elders H and B to Louden (sic) Co. After finishing shearing the sheep, we rested ourselves studying etc.
Thursday – 5 [September 1895] Remained at Bro[ther Joseph John Calvin (JC)] G[arland]‘s. Nothing of interest occurring.
Friday – 6 [September 1895] Bid good-bye to Bro[Joseph John Calvin (JC)] Garland and family and took our departure for Louden (sic) and Roane counties. Traveled unmolested to Brick Mill a distance of about 20 miles. We stopped a couple of times on the road to refresh ourselves on melon, which are plentiful and cheap. We stayled all night with Mr. J. I. McIntruff, who treated us very kindly and invited us to call again.
Outside Blount County
Saturday – 7 [September 1895] Continued our journey, Arriving at Loudon about 4 o’clock. We stayed at Mr. James Lanter’s where Elder H. gets washing done. We had to buy our food, costing us 40 c[ents] each. We attended a revival meeting, and, of all the horrible religious services I ever beheld, that was the most horrible. May God have pity on their ignorant souls.
Sunday – 8 [September 1895] Wrote a letter home, then started on my way to Roane Co. very much disappointed not getting letters from home. [In the] afternoon walked into Roane Co. Called upon Mr. Cormany, a friend made by the Lord. Of J. H.’s we had a good time that evening talking with young James Cormany. He is a deep thinker but rather sceptical.
Monday – 9 [September 1895] We went over to Bro[ther] Stalcup’s about 7 miles. He received us with a kind welcome. We spent a very pleasant evening talking with him and his brother, William, who is skeptical.
Tuesday – 10 [September 1895] Proceeded over Clinch R[iver]. Called at Mr. Dickinson’s. Made arrangements to have our washing done there. At a welcome dinner. Had a nice chat. [At] 2 o’clock started out to canvass the country on [the] north side of Clinch R[iver] in Roane Co. Visited 19 families. Traveled about 8 miles. Stayed overnight at Mr. Cooley’s who treated us kindly.
Wednesday – 11 [September 1895] Continued our canvasing up toward co[unty] line and near the river. Had quite an arguement (sic) with one fellow. Traveled about 7 miles. Stayed at Mr. J. D. Goodwin’s.
Thursday – 12 [September 1895] On our way at about 7 o’clock. Had a good conversation with one family. It seems strange they can’t believe that baptism is essential to salvation, and while they claim to be Christians and to believe the Bible, you cannot make them understand. Surely they are blind, made so by blind leaders. Stayed all night at Mr. John Grubbs who treated us very kind. We had some gospel talk with them.
Friday – 13 [September 1895] Canvassed a few houses. Tried to get meeting house to hold meeting in Sunday, but failed. Went over to Wheat P. O. Got mail from home. I was very much pained and worried by the news that two of the children were sick. We traveled about 11 miles today. Very hot, with hot shower, and hot after. Nights are getting a little cooler. We stayed all night at Mr. Franklin Gribb’s who is very kind-hearted.
Saturday – 14 [September 1895] Continued our canvasing. Met one man who was very clever. Spent about 4 hours and took dinner with him. Finished Racoon Valley. Called at one house to stay, were promised by the man after staying about an hour until nearly dark. The woman induced the man to send us away. We succeeded in getting in with Mr. Davis nearby who was rather cool, especially his wife.
Sunday – 15 [September 1895] Went out in the woods to spend the day writing home, reading etc. In the evening we started out to find a place for night. We went to Mr. Copeland’s. He sent us away and then called us back and treated us very kindly.
Monday – 16 [September 1895] We started out to canvass, finding some very pleasant experiences talking with different people, getting new ideas all the time. We traveled about 7 miles and visited 23 families. We were refused entertainment 3 times but finally were taken in by Mr. Heglar on the banks of the Clinch [River]. It rained very hard in [the] evening making very hard walking.
Tuesday – 17 [September 1895] Went up the river to Mr. Dickinson’s to change cloth[e]s. We were received by friend Dickinson and wife very kindly. She refused to receive any pay for washing for us. We took dinner with them and spent a little time after dinner very pleasantly. Went to see Mr. Freels about getting his house to preach in. Completed arrangements to hold meeting there Sunday, September 22. Canvassed a few houses and stayed all with Mr. John Hembr[illegible].
Wedn[e]sday – [18 September 1895] Traveled about 8 miles. Visited 22 families, pretty well-received by most all of them. Had [a] rather hard time to get in but finally found a friend in Mr. Cal. Edwards who treated us kindly and invited us back.
Thursday – 19 Sept[ember 1895] Canvassing to and fro without incident. Very hot weather. Traveled about 10 miles got into a cool community. Visited 27 families, some of them very bitter. We had a hard time to get in and the man – who did finally after dark take us in – would scarcely speak to us and refused to take a tract, saying that he wanted no Mormon doctrine in his house. It is surely the Lord who interfered in our behalf in such cases, for there are communities where we would surely suffer if it was not for His interposition.
Friday – 20 [September 1895] Continued our labor down the country to the river across into another valley and so on around. Visited 18 families. Traveled about 10 miles. Stayed with Mr. Joseph Ladd, nephew of Mr. Joseph Ladd, with whom we stayed in the spring.
Saturday – 21 [September 1895] We worked our way back around the vicinity of Wheat. We finished up in that neighborhood and crossed over into Bear Valey south[ward]. Revisited Mr. Russell, with whom we stayed all night. He treated us very kindly. Is somewhat interested but is skeptical but blinded by old tradition. We may make a good friend out of him. We gave him a “Voice of Warning.”
Sunday – 22 [September 1895] Took a shave before leaving Mr. Russell’s. We then went to the woods to rest until meeting time. We went at 3 o’clock and commenced our meeting, having a very good sized crowd. I spoke first about one half of an hour. Elder [Alfred Woodcock] Nebeker then followed about same length of time. The Spirit of God was with us and we held good attention. When we were throug[h], a man got up to r[e]fute our doctrine, and such a malignant, dev[i]lish spirit, but rather his harangue strengthened us. After meeting we went to J. B. Dickinson’s to stay overnight, where we were treated very kindly.
Monday – 23 [September 1895] Changed cloth[e]s and after dinner started out again. Walked 7 mi[les] and stayed with Mr. Chas Beniger.
Tuesday – 24 [September 1895] Walked 9 miles. Visited 11 families. Stayed with Mr. John Taylor who treated us kindly and invited us to call again.
Wedn[e]sday – 25 [September 1895] Walked 8 miles. Vis[ited] 18 families. Stayed with Mr. William Hudson.
Thursday – 26 [September 1895] [Walked] 10 mi[les]. 26 fam[ilies] vis[ited]. Rec[eive]d mail from home. Stayed with Mr. Monroe. Had a good time while there.
Friday – 27 [September 1895] [Walked] 8 mi[les]. 15 fam[ilies] vis[ited]. Made arrangements to hold meeting at Kries School House [on] Sunday. Stayed [with] Mr. George Smith.
Saturday – 28 [September 1895] [Walked] 9 miles. 17 fam[ilies] vis[ited]. Stayed with Mr. Sam Dicky. The labor of the week has been without any striking incident. Few conversations had. It was in Poplar Creek Valley and next one on the NW side of it.
Sunday – 29 [September 1895] After shaving we left Mr. Dicky’s and went to the woods. Our home to spend the time until time to go to meeting. Writing up, journal reading, etc. At about one o’clock we went to hold meeting, stopped to mail letters at Kris P. O. Were invited to dinner by the PM [with] Mr. May. After dinner went to meeting. We had a good crowd who paid good attention. We enjoyed the Spirit of [the] Lord and had a good meeting. Mr. May invited us home to spend the night, he treated us very well.
Monday – 30 [September 1895] Frost this morning. We proceeded on our way, visiting 24 families, walking 12 miles, working in the vicinity of Harriman. Stayed all night with Mr. John De Armond. We were very late in getting in and tired. No supper.
Tuesday -1 Oct[ober 1895] Worked up r[ail]r[oad] Oliver Springs 10 miles. 25 families [visited]. Late again getting in. But struck a good friend Frank Day.
Wedn[e]sday – 2 [October 1895] We went to Bro[ther] Peter Stalcup’s. Got my heavier coat and vest. 12 miles
Thursday – 3 [October 1895] Went back toward Oliver [Springs]. 12 miles [walked]. 4 families [visited]. Stayed at Mr. Thomas Wright.
Friday – 4 [October 1895] Sailed in to canvass Oliver [Springs]. It is quite a little town. I met one educated preacher, had a long talk with him. Also, met a Seventh Day Adventist. They all have peculiar ideas. Every man in this country has his own religion. Went down the r[ail]r[oad]. Were very late and had to call on [a] friend [named] Day. 7 m[iles walked]. 88 fam[iles visited].
Saturday – 5 [October 1895] Finished our canvassing in this section of the county. 10 miles [walked]. 13 families [visited]. Stayed with a friend, John Taylor.
Sunday – 6 [October 1895] Went over to a friend, Dickinson. Wrote letter home. Wrote journal up to date. Went over to a friend, John Wright, who received us kindly and seemed somewhat interested in the gospel.
Monday – 7 [October 1895] Went over into McKinney Bend to visit a friend, Kates, he proved a little cool and not much interested. Distance of 6 miles.
Tuesday – 8 [October 1895] Traveled to Mr. Rail’s place on Tennessee River. Were received moderately kind.
Wedn[e]sday – 9 [October 1895] Came back to Peter Stalcup’s a distance of 8 miles and stayed overnight. Not much gospel talk. He seems all right but not ready for baptism.
Thursday – 10 [October 1895] Crossed over to J. B. Dickinson’s and stayed there until after mail time [at] 2 o’clock. No mail. Then, proceeded to go to Anderson Co. to conference. Traveled. Received shoes from C. C. Boone of NC – cost $3.50. About 10 miles and stayed with Mr. Chas Smith in edge of Anderson [Co.]
Friday – 11 [October 1895] Continued our journey, arriving at Mr. [Wesley] Burnett’s, where conference is to be held. Found all of the Elders there. We were very warmly received by all and had a splendid time. We went to Mr. Ruth Cox’s to stay overnight where we were warmly received and kindly cared for. My feet were very sore. One of my toes having a great blister. Traveled 23 miles.
East Tennessee Conference (October 1895)
Saturday – 12 [October 1895] Returned to Mr. [Wesley] Burnett’s at about 8 o’clock. Pres. [Elias S.] Kimball arrived. After a happy greeting, we all assembled in counsel meeting in the woods. All the Elders were called upon to give in the report of the labors. At a little after 10 o’clock, counsel meeting broke and we went to the house to commence our conference meetings. There was quite a good crowd of people there. Most of the forenoon was occupied by Elders speaking upon their various subjects and bearing testimonies. Also, afternoon was occupied in the same way. Most of speaking today did not occupy much time each, but nearly all bore a good testimony. After [the] meeting we were assigned our various places to go. I went to Mr. Edmundon’s. We were treated wonderfully kind by these people. They surely deserve praise.
Sunday – 13 [October 1895] We all convened again in counsel meeting at about 8 o’clock, where reports were finished giving in. Regular meeting convened at about 10 AM with about 300 people in attendance. Elder [Edward William] Payne spoke upon the Book of Mormon with very good spirit, making a good impression. President [Elias S.] Kimball followed speaking with much force on general subjects. [The] afternoon meeting was also very good and, in fact, the Spirit of God prevailed to a great degree and all we enjoyed ourselves most wonderfully. Again, we were sent to our several places. I went to Mr. Hodge’s a distance of 2 miles.
Monday – 14 [October 1895] Assembled at 8 AM in counsel meeting. President [Elias S.] Kimball occupied the whole day speaking with much power and the Spirit of God was there more than I ever experienced before. The nature of our instructions were to travel that way strictly. Our labors would be more successful and that the promise of the Lord was that he would raise up friends on all sides. Also, that we would have more of the Spirit of the Lord. He laid great stress upon holding meetings, that this would also give us greater success. We are also told to revisit more and try to hold meetings wherever we go. He also told us we must teach the Saints to obey the Word of Wisdom and the Law of Tithing, and that we should hold meetings amongst them when we were visiting them. He also wanted us to interest ourselves in behalf of the railroads, who favor us. President [Elias S.] Kimball uttered a prophesy to the effect that we would hold 10 to 1 more meetings than we had been doing. In the evening when he had finished his unstructions to us, he called upon all of us to hear testimonies. The Elders all spoke with much feeling. Elder [George Barlow] Wintle prophesied that this would become the greatest conference in the mission. Elder [Erastus Kruse] Fillerup also uttered a prophesy to the same effect. If I ever felt the power and influence of the Holy Ghost, it was today. I fell very much strengthened in my faith. We were then paired off, Elder J[ohn] H[einer] Hin[c]kley being my companion. We then were sent to our several places to rest again. I to Mr. Hodge’s.
Tuesday – 15 [October 1895] Again we met in counsel. President [John Roland] Halliday instructing us the minor details of our labor. About noon, most of the boys started out for their various fields of labor with a renewed determination to do the duties devolving upon them, being greatly strengthened by the good Spirit and instructions received during conference. I remained here at Mr. Burnett’s while Elder [John Heiner] Hinckley sent over to Knoxville to get his grip. I feel that I know that God is with us and that if we will obey the counsels given, we will be able to do a great work while here. May the Lord grant it to be so. Amen. Elder [John Heiner] Hinckley and I went to stay with Mr. Hodge who treated us kindly.
Wedn[e]sday – 16 [October 1895] Returned to council ground. Met all the Elders. Pres. [John Roland] Halliday gave us some more instructions, we then began to separate, the boys starting off in various directions for their fields of labor. Elder [John Heiner] Hinckley and [Alfred Woodcock] Nebeker went to Knoxville. I remained at Mr. [Wesley] Burnett’s with Elder [Ernest Rupert] Needham. Sowed some wheat for Mr. [Wesley] Burnett.
Thursday – 17 [October 1895] Stayed at Mr. [Wesley] Burnett’s. Helped pick some beans. Elders [John Heiner] H[inckley], M, C and B returned. All stayed together at Mr. [Wesley] B[urnett]’s. Had a good time.
Returning to Roane County
Friday – 18 [October 1895] Started out for Roane Co. Elders [Ernest Rupert] Needham and [Alfred Woodcock] Neb[eker] accompanying us as far as Clinch R[iver]. Continued on our way through Clinton. Stayed with Mr. James M. Smith who is very friendly.
Saturday – 19 [October 1895] Continued on down through Oliver Springs, getting two letters from home. Stayed at friend’s, Frank Days. Held meeting in evening. Had a good time.
Sunday – 20 [October 1895] Continued down r[iver] to Elverton, where I rec[eive]d two more letters from home. All [is] well. Turned over the ridges to Mr. Joseph Ladd’s to stay overnight. He is kind. We left him a “V[oice] of W[arning].”
Monday – 21 [October 1895] Went over to friend’s, Dickinson. Bathed, changed cloth[e]s, etc. Stayed all night.
Tuesday – 22 [October 1895] Went over to Peter Stalcup’s and from there hunted up comissioners of school and got permission to hold [a] meeting. We went to meeting at about 7 o’clock. Held meeting [for] about an hour. No impression visible. Stayed with Peter Stalcup.
Wednesday – 23 [October 1895] Started for Rockwood. Traveled about 15 miles. Stayed at Mr. McKamey’s.
Thursday – 24 [October 1895] Made arrangements to leave grips at store of Mr. Joseph. Called at [the] P. O. Got box. Received a letter from home. Started down r[ail]r[oad] canvassing. Stayed with Mr. Hinds.
Friday – 25 [October 1895] Made arrangement to hold [a] meeting in [a] Christian Church at Glen Alice. Had a good crowd and good attention.
Saturday – [26 October 1895] Canvassed up another valley east of r[ail]r[oad]. Stayed with mr. Poor, quite clever.
Sunday – 27 [October 1895] Wrote letters etc. until noon. Took dinner with Mr. Poor. Went to Methodist meeting. After that, tried to secure house to preach in but failed. Stayed with Mr. East, a Methodist preacher, had quite an arguement (sic) with him.
Monday – 28 [October 1895] Went in to Rockwood to get mail but failed to get any from home. Tried to hunt up a man to get a house to preach in but failed. After finishing up what we had to do at Rockwood, we went out to canvass. Traveled about 12 miles. Vis[ited] 22 familes. Rec[eive]d 9 re[fusals]. Were quite late getting in, but finally got to stay with F. Smith.
Tuesday – 29 [October 1895] Canvassed the settlement at Post Oak. People here are very bitter. Refused us their church to preach in.
Wednesday – 30 [October 1895] Canvassed Emory Gap. Two school trustees refused us the use of [the] school house in their district. We vis[ited] 54 fam[iles], traveled 10 mi[les], had 10 re[fusals], but finally got in with a poor renter a long ways from where we were canvassing. This is the hardest part of the co[unty] I have been in. It rained in the night.
Thursday – 31 [October 1895] It was quite muddy and we were late starting. We canvassed a few houses and made arrangements to hold [a] meeting at Pine Grove.
Friday – 1 Nov[ember 1895] Being out of tracts, we went to Rockwood. Got tracts. No mail from home. Disappointed! We traveled about 20 miles and again had a hard time to get in. Mr. Bowers, a rich farmer, took us in and entreated us kindly.
Saturday – 2 [November 1895] Canvassed around the river by Hoods Landing, and so on. Held [a] meeting in the Gambol School House. Stayed with a Mr. C. N. Furguson.
Sunday – 3 [November 1895] We traveled a short distance to Pine Grove. Went to the house of Mrs. William Love and accompanied him to S[unday] S[chool]. Very poor. After that, prayer meeting nonsensicle (sic). Took dinner with Mr. Love. Stayed at his house. Wrote a letter home. In the evening, held a good meeting. Stayed overnight with Mr. Love.
Monday – 4 [November 1895] Started out early to canvas[s] up the Clinch R[iver]. Had a nice little arguement (sic) with a fellow who believed all the Bible but don’t believe in baptism. Went into the woods to write up the journal etc. Walked about 9 miles. Visited 15 families. After tramping about an hour after dark we got in with Mr. Erickson who treated us very kind.
Tuesday – [5 November 1895] We endeavored to get a Methodist Church to hold [a] meeting but failed. We finally got a school house and had a good meeting. Friend Ericksen was there and his interest was aroused. He invited us to come to see him again. We stayed at Mr. William’s who was very kind.
Wedn[e]sday – 6 [November 1895] Visited around up Emory R[iver]. Called back and stayed with Mr. Erickson.
Thursday – 7 [November 1895] We visited most all of the families left not canvassed in the Swan Pond Neighborhood. Traveled about 12 miles. Stayed with a Mr. Swisgood.
Friday – 8 [November 1895] Went into Rockwood. Was delighted to get a letter from home. All were well. Went out southwest of Rockwood in Waldon’s Ridge. Stayed with Mr. Evans.
Saturday – 9 [November 1895] It rained all day and remained overnight. Treated kindly and invited back.
Sunday – 10 [November 1895] We visited a few families to let them know we would hold [a] meeting. Had a good meeting. Went and stayed with Mr. Evans.
Monday – 11 [November 1895] Went along the ridge into Rockwood. Mailed letter etc. Went back to the ridge. Visited all the houses we could find. [Walked] 12 mi[les]. [Visited] 19 fam[ilies]. Stayed with Jon Kendrick.
Tuesday – 12 [November 1895] Continued in the ridge to Harriman, where I bought a pair of Broadcloth pants – $1.50. Stayed with Mr. Felosia. Treated kindly.
Wedn[e]sday – 13 [November 1895] Started out to work the camps toward Rockwood. Stopped in woods to fix the new pants, having busted. Wrote journal. Visited 49 families. Held a good meeting. Stayed with J. E. Hawkins, who had been acquainted with some of our Elders in NC.
Thursday – 14 [November 1895] Canvassed the town of Cardiff, but were disappointed in not getting a house to hold [a] meeting. 68 f[amilies] v[isited]. Stayed with Mr. Pyott.
Friday – 15 [November 1895] Went to Rockwood. Got mail from home. All [are] well. Thank God. F[amilies] v[isited] 26. [Stayed with] Mr. Hicks.
Saturday – 16 [November 1895] Tried but were unsuccessful in getting three houses. F[amilies] v[isited] 30. [Stayed with] F. Abston.
Sunday – 17 [November 1895] Went to Campbelite (sic) S[unday] S[chool]. Tried to get house but had to go hunt up trustees. Spent most of the day to get to hold meeting. Our meeting was poorly attended. [Stayed with] F. Ashton.
Monday – 18 [November 1895] Canvassed Big Bend. Stayed with A. H. Poor who welcomed us.
Tuesday – 19 [November 1895] Went to Rockwood. got house to hold meetings in and sailed in to work the town. F[amilies] v[isited] 98. Held meeting and very near got left out. We finally went to a boarding house and had to pay for [a] bed.
Wedn[e]sday – 20 [November 1895] Visited 143 families. Held meetings in the evening. The people of this town are cool. Did not [at]tend our meeting, in fact, they don’t care. Stayed with a Mr. Brown. Poor but kind.
Thursday – 21 [November 1895] Finished canvassing the few houses left. Got my umbrella fixed by a kind old jentleman (sic), no charge. Mr. Joseph, a Welshman, once a member of the Church, treated us kindly. We took several meals with him while working in town. He had no spare bed or he would have kept us all the time. We keep our grips in his store. Rec[eive]d a letter from home, all [is] well, and one from Pres. [John Roland] H[alliday] assigning us to Buncom Co., NC. [In the] afternoon, started out to finish up canvassing. F[amilies] v[isited] 27. Stayed with Mr. J. Smith.
Friday – 22 [November 1895] Proceeded over eastward to bend in the river. Procured house to hold [a] meeting. Visited the people of the bend and held a good meeting at night. Good turnout. Good order. Good friend found, Mr. Shilling.
Saturday – 23 [November 1895] Canvassed up the valley. Tried to get [a] house to hold [a] meeting but failed. Visited 16 families. Stayed at Mr. Delaney’s. The people of this valley are rather bitter.
Sunday – 24 [November 1895] Went into the woods and spent the day reading. In the evening called on a Mr. Hill to stay overnight.
Monday – 25 [November 1895] Went into Rockwood. got mail. Took dirty cloth[e]s and started for Mr. Ericksen’s, a distance of 12 miles from Rockwood, to get a change washed. Found Mr. Ericksen sick but he welcomed us home.
Tuesday – 26 [November 1895] Canvassed a few scattering houses toward Harriman that we had left. Then, went down Emory R[iver] to Mr. F. William’s to stay all night. He and his neighbor, Mr. Adkinson, are both very friendly.
Wedn[e]sday – 27 [November 1895] Went over to Mr. Erickson’s, two miles. Had a good talk with him. Stayed overnight. Got cloth[e]s all clean. All [is] well.
Thursday – 28 [November 1895] Went back to Rockwood. Got mail. Were disappointed about the fair in several ways. Made up our minds to go to Knoxville by way of Bro[ther] Stalcup’s. Went over to friend Abston’s to stay over.
Friday – 29 [November 1895] Walked by Kingston to Stalcup’s 21 miles. At Kingston I bought 10 c[ent] lunch, pair [of] cuffs and collar button – 30 c[ents]. Shoe soles – 10 c[ents]. Mr. Johnston is as clever as ever.
Saturday – 30 [November 1895] Tacked on soles to my shoes. Went to Paw Baw. Got garments and a note from home [that] all [is] well. Thank God. After dinner wrote up journal. Went over to J. B. Dickinson’s. Found them all well and still friendly but not much interested. Stayed all night with them.
[Sunday – 1] Dec[ember 1895] Sunday morning fasted. Wrote letter home. After dinner took leave of the folks here and went back over to Stalcup’s. We spent the evening pleasantly with them.
Monday – 2 [December 1895] Took leave of Bro[ther] Stalcup and family and proceeded on our way to Buncome Co., NC. We stopped at a brook and washed our feet in testimony against Roane Co. and asked the Lord to accept our labors therein. We walked 23 miles through the mud, then got on the train for Knoxville. Were delighted to find Elders [Thomas Rawlings] Smith, [Erastus Kruse] Fillerup, and [John William] Webster there.
Tuesday – 3 [December 1895] After dinner we parted from the other boys and walked 9 miles to Mr. Sam Cruse where we stayed overnight.
Wedn[e]sday – 4 [December 1895] Traveled 25 miles to Bro[ther] Morgan’s in Sevier Co. Night very cold.
Friday – [6 December 1895] Rested. Had a good visit with Bro[ther] and Sister Morgan.
Saturday – 7 [December 1895] Proceeded 18 miles to Sister Gilispie’s. The weather moderated and it got very muddy.
Sunday – 8 [December 1895] Rested at Sister G[ilispie]’s. Wrote letters home. Bro[gh]t up journal etc. My legs are quite lame from walking through the mud. Stayed overnight at Sister G[ilispie]’s and were treated very kindly.
Monday – 9 [December 1895] Very soft, wet weather and very muddy, but we took our departure for Lee Arington’s where we arrived about 1 PM. We were kindly received and stayed overnight.
Tuesday – 10 [December 1895] We stayed at Arington’s until after dinner. We then went over to James [Bennett] Law‘s. The old folks were not very well but received us kindly.
Wedn[e]sday – 11 [December 1895] Went down Big Creek to Delrio, thence up the French Broad [River] on [the] r[ail]r[oad] tracks to Hot Springs, where we stayed with Steve Place. He is kind but quite poor.
[12 DECEMBER 1895 – 31 JULY 1896: LABORING IN NORTH CAROLINA]
Heading to Cherokee, NC for Conference
Saturday – 1 Aug[ust 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 7. We started early and went over m[oun]tain onto Beesley’s Cr[eek in] Macon Co. Called on Elder’s D’s friend, Tom Hurst. Were kindly received.
Sunday – 2 [August 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 2. We fasted in the morning. Spent the day reading and in pleasant [company]. [In the] evening, talking on scripture etc.
Monday – 3 [August 1896] Got Mr. B’s folks to wash for us. In the mean time, wrote, patched etc. Went out in the field with MB’s folks and helped them harvest oats a little while. Then, we took our departure and went down to Pat Shepherd’s.
Tuesday – 4 [August 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 14. We proceeded through Franklin to Mr. Isaac Connelly’s where we were kindly treated. We remained here all night have some good gospel talk.
Wedn[e]sday – 5 [August 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 14. We went west over [the] m[oun]t[ain]. Reached John Moore’s where we rested over[night].
Thursday – 6 [August 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 15. We continued on. Went to Andrew’s, then up in the hills to Mr. Hardin’s.
East Tennessee Conference (August 1896)
Friday – 7 [August 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 29. We went on through Murphy. I was disappointed not getting my cloth[e]s. Went on to Mr. H. Taylor’s, finding there Pres[iden]t [James Ellingham] Hart, [Elias S.] Kimball and others. A very enjoyable meeting. We went to Mr. Sedford’s.
Saturday – 8 [August 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 5. We came back to place of meeting. Held 2 counsel[s] and 2 public meetings. Had [a] good crowd and [a] good time. Elder [John Heiner] Hinckley and I went to Mrs. Holland’s.
Sunday – 9 [August 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 4. We again assembled and held 2 meetings. Had our photo taken, then held a counsel meeting. [Stayed at] Jack Sedford’s.
Monday – 10 [August 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 3. Returning to counsel ground, we all met to receive instruction from President [Elias S.] Kimball. He spoke [for] 6 h[ou]rs with great force, instructing us on many points, commanding us: to go strictly without money; to preach only on the first 4 principles; to be charitable; to hold lots of meetings; and dispense with many books; and many good things if followed out will surely result in good. The Elders were all requested to bare (sic) their testimony. We enjoyed a very good spirit all through and it was a time long to be remembered. We stayed with T. B. Garland.
Tuesday – 11 [August 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 10. We gathered once more and received the balance of our instructions and [were] given our companions. Elder A[dams] W[esley] Ensign was my companion. Bidding good-bye to each other, we separated in different directions. We stayed with Jessie Combs.
Wedn[e]sday – 12 [August 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 24. We passed through Murphy and on out to Mr. Hardin’s where we found 8 others. We held [a] meeting and had a good time.
Thursday – 13 [August 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 5. We all entered upon a two-days fast for the health of the Elders. I went down to Andrews and purchased [a] p[ai]r of shoes. Sent $7.40 to [the] office. Held [a] meeting etc. There is a few good, kind friends here. I am very weak [in] body and spirit. Stayed over with Mr. H. H. Weatherman.
Friday – 14 [August 1896] Continued our fast holding 2 meetings, baptizing Bro[ther] Hardin’s wife and sister-in-law. In the evening broke our fast. Stayed with Bro[ther] H[ardin].
Saturday – 15 [August 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 9. We went over the m[oun]t[ain] into Graham Co. 6 of us stayed with Mr. Hooper and had the greatest time argueing (sic).
Sunday – 16 [August 1896] We fasted and held 2 meetings with the Cherokee Indians. We had a splendid time. Stayed with Mr. Trull.
Monday – 17 [August 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 17. We walked to the NW over hill and hollows to Mr. De Hart’s, where we stayed and held [a] meeting, having a good time.
Tuesday – 18 [August 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 3. We walked over a m[oun]t[ain] to Mr. Garrison’s where we stayed. He is a fine friend.
Wedn[e]sday – 19 [August 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 23. We crossed another m[oun]t[ain] to [the Little] Tenn[essee] River, then on over [the] point of [the] Smok[y] M[oun]t[ains]. Stayed at a Mr. Richard Evans near [the] river.
In Blount County with JC Garland
Thursday – 20 [August 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 13. We continued on to Abrahams Cr[eek], thence up to Happy Valley, getting lost and losing considerable time and distance. We were welcomed at Thomas He[a]ron‘s.
Friday – 21 [August 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 10. We came on to Bro[ther Joseph John Calvin (JC)] Garland‘s. Find all [are] well.
Saturday – 22 [August 1896] Rested, changed cloth[e]s etc. Held one meeting and all stayed at Bro[ther Joseph John Calvin (JC)] G[arland]’s.
Baptism of Mary Jane Harmon (Davis)
Sunday – 23 [August 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 7. [Held] S[unday] S[chool] at Bro[ther Joseph John Calvin (JC)] G[arland]’s. Then, held a meeting. After dinner, we all went up the cr[eek] 3 mi[les] to Bro[ther John Goulder] Ha[r]m[o]n‘s, where we held a meeting, then baptized Sister [Mary Jane Davis] Harm[o]n. Then, we all went back to Bro[ther Joseph John Calvin (JC)] G[arland]’s.
Monday – 24 [August 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 4. Elder[s Erastus Kruse] Fillerup, [William Henry] Carter, [Adams Wesley] Ensign, and I left for Knoxville. We reached Chas Otts, where we stayed.
Tuesday – 25 [August 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 14. We continued on past Knoxv[ille] to Bro[ther] Turner’s.
Wedn[e]sday – 26 [August 1896] Stayed all day at Bro[ther] Turner’s.
Thursday – 27 [August 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 10. We went to Knoxv[ille] where I got mail from home. All were well after finishing our business. Elder [Adams Wesley] Ensign and I took our leave of the other boys and started out eastward. We were lucky to strike the river and get across without trouble. We got in with William Fisher just [at] dark.
Meeting with Andrew Smith
Friday – 28 [August 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 5. We continued on to Andy [Johnson] Smith‘s, where we held [a] meeting in the afternoon.
Saturday – 29 [August 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 17. We passed on up through Strawberry Plains, on to Mossy Cr[eek], through some of the best country in East Tenn[essee]. We had a hard time but got in about 9 o’clock at Samuel James’. He was very kind.
Sunday – 30 Aug[ust 1896] We remained all day and all night at Sam James’. They treated us very kind. We tried to hold [a] meeting but could not. All is well.
Monday – 31 [August 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 18. We proceeded on our way through Morristown. A little after dark we got in B. F. Cobble Whitsbg. Holmen Co. (sic)
Tuesday – 1 Sep[tember 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 24. We continued toward our co[unty]. Just after dark we arrived at Chas Kitchen’s, a good friend in Greene Co. He received us kindly. My feet were quite tired.
Wedn[e]sday – 2 [September 1896] We went into Greenville. Got [a] card from Pres[iden]t [James Ellingham] Hart, instructing us to make a change with [Erastus Kruse] Fillerup and [William Henry] Carter, preparitory (sic) to meeting new men. I was very much disappointed in this. We went out 4 miles to Marion Jones’, very kindly rec[eive]d.
Thursday-Sunday – 3-6 [September 1896] Remained at Mr. Jones’ on ac[coun]t of Elder [Adams Wesley] Ensign‘s foot being lame. We were kindly treated and had a good time but could hold no meetings.
Monday – 7 [September 1896] Elder [Adams Wesley] E[nsign] went in a wagon to Sister Blackburn’s. I went to town. Then out to B’s we were kindly rec[eive]d and held a meeting.
Tuesday – 8 [September 1896] Elder [Adams Wesley] E[nsign]‘s foot not being yet well we remained here again. I hope to get work soon. It seems that we never will get tarted in to do our work according to council (sic). May God help me, for I am very weak.
Wednesday – 9 September [18]96 M[iles] w[alked] 7. We fasted in the morning, then proceeded to Greeneville. We visited the editors and made a good impression on them, we believe. One of them told us we could have his paper while in the county. We visited several houses and people to try to get acquainted and get the use of a church. In the evening we got entertainment of James Wampler Boarding House.
Thursday – 10 [September 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 5. We continued our search for a house but were not able. Went out to Kitchens’.
Friday – 11 [September 1896] M[iles] w[alked] 7. We tried the courthouse but failed in that. We then tried the street and held a meeting. We made some friends but they were from out in the country. We went to Marion Jones’ to stay.
Saturday – 12 [September 1896] We set out early for town again. After brushing up we went on the street again. Forenoon had [a] good time. After meeting, some devils tried to corner us and there was a very hostile spirit manifest. Afternoon, we again went on the street and held a very good meeting, making some friends. After we got through, we went to Marion Jones’. We were ver hourse (sic) and worn out by our great exertion. All is well that ends well.
[LABORING OUTSIDE BLOUNT COUNTY FOR REMAINDER OF MISSION]
Source: Mission Diary of Hubbard, James Willard; M270.1 H86; Copied by Brigham Young University, 1960, https://www.familysearch.org/photos/artifacts/101328729?p=58587622&returnLabel=James%20Willard%20Hubbard%20(KWCZ-1X9)&returnUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.familysearch.org%2Ftree%2Fperson%2Fmemories%2FKWCZ-1X9 (accessed: September 21, 2024)
Smoky Mountain Ward 