David Fisk Stout

by Ruth McOmber Pratt

David Fisk Stout began his life February 3, 1855, in Centerville, Utah. He was a great example of courage, faith, and love of God and family. He was a great pioneer and valiant patriot. He loved his family and his church as he did life itself. He exemplified the patience of Job and the standards of Joseph of Egypt. One can honestly say that he was tested like unto Abraham. Truly it can be said of him that he laid the foundation of future generations. We, his descendants owe him our life, our standards of truth and righteousness, and a purpose and destiny that is still being felt a hundred years later.

Who am I? To understand who anyone is, we need to look at their parents. To understand who they are, we need to look at their parents. To understand why we are where we are, why we have the personality traits we have, why we have our physical ailments and strengths, we need to back up in time to look to the past to understand the present. We are part of a never ending story, weaving our own picture in a huge tapestry of many colors, many families of every hue and bonding together with the faith in Christ, the union of marriage, the adversity of illness, temptations, and death.

We all have our story. We all have our successes and failures. Does it help us to see the past generations so we can learn from them? Does it give us courage, when we see their courage? We too can conquer our own adversities and trials. We too can make future generations look to us as their heros, as we look to our fore fathers as our leaders, our heros. We cry with them, we laugh and rejoice with them, and we are ever better for knowing them. They are the pattern of our destiny. We are the continuation of their tapestry, the threads of their greatest dreams.

Allen J. Stout, David's Father

David's grandfather, Joseph A. Stout, the fifth child of 10, was born July 17, 1773, and his grandmother Anna Smith Stout, a cousin whom he married in 1797, were very religious and God fearing Quakers. Their ancestry can be traced back to Pennsylvania and Nottingham England.

David's father, Allen Joseph Stout, was from Kentucky, raised by strict Quakers. Allen was born December 5, 1815, into a family that had just experienced extreme hardships. He was the tenth child, born in the American frontier of Danville, Kentucky. When Allen's mother died of consumption (tuberculosis), on July 28, 1824, Allen and his brother Hosea were passed from home to home as hired help. Her loss to the family was well described by Hosea: "By her death I lost the only unwavering friend that I had and our family was now left like a ship without a rudder to be the sport of misfortune, and I sure felt and realized her loss, and now when deprived of her could begin to see my own ingratitude and disobedience to her." Allen made the comment: "I was a very weakly child; this man (a Martin Myers) used to abuse me by whipping me for things which I could not help." Hosea took his brother Allen to live with his cousin Ephraim Stout, Jr., to attend Jesse Stout's school for a time. Allen says he was the meanest man he ever saw. It was in the year of 1837 that Allen's sister, Anna married Benjamin Jones, a Mormon. At first Hosea wanted to disprove the new religion but soon became convinced of its truthfulness. Hosea remained at the Jones's home several days during which time he met his old friend Charles C. Rich, who was now a Mormon Elder.

Hosea states, "It is not necessary to mention our investigation which resulted in all cases in the loss of my position, while he always sustained his on the fairest possible terms. The perplexity which this threw me into can only be realized by those who have been through the same thing with the same anticipations before them that I had. I saw plainly that my position was wrong, and did also verily believe Mormonism to be correct." Though Hosea did not have courage at first to be baptized, he returned to Stout grove to teach the new doctrine to his astonished relatives. In 1834 Hyrum Smith and Lyman Wight passed through Stout Grove. He states, "The effect of their preaching was powerful upon us".... but Hosea still did not join.

During these years of Mormon proselyting, Hosea's brother Allen and father returned from their six year scout trip in Missouri and Arkansas. On their arrival father Joseph and son Allen investigated Mormonism with vigor. Allen writes: "I read the book: Doctrine and Covenants. I could not get hold of a Book of Mormon. I went to a number of Sunday prayer meetings, but still the most satisfaction I could get was what Hosea would tell me, for he was as well acquainted with the Gospel as he is now, but had not obeyed it yet. Soon after we got here (Illinois) Lyman Wight and Charles C. Rich came on from Missouri and held a meeting, so we all went to hear, and I was well pleased, and so was father, but to my great astonishment, some were very mad and said they did not teach the scriptures, but I knew better for I was well acquainted with the Bible."

After two months of study, Allen was convinced to gather with the Saints and be baptized. Their father went with them to Far West, Caldwell County, Missouri. August 6, 1837 they arrived but in poor health. Allen was out of money and had no choice but to stay. At first it seemed he had to return to the South after being rejected on a loan. Hosea came to his rescue by buying land and providing Allen with employment and shelter. Besides suffering physically he also suffered mentally for "I had become satisfied of the truth of the gospel and wished to embrace it, but still lingered back and had not courage to go forward and be baptized until the 22nd of April, 1838." His sister Lydia was baptized the previous day which may have helped him. His father Joseph never joined the church but seemed favorably impressed with Mormonism. Hosea finally was baptized August 24, 1838. Allen was a young man of 22 years at this time.

At the time of Allen's baptism he was a sick man. Allen writes that after Charles C. Rich baptized him "It seemed to me that I could almost rise and fly. As soon as I was immersed I felt relieved of a seemingly great weight, and as I went home I felt as though I could almost walk and not touch the ground. I had the Elders anoint me and I was healed of both my breast complaint and fever sores after the bone had been nacked all winter on my leg." After his baptism, he proved true to the tribulation that came to the church from the anti-Mormon mobocracy.

It was Allen who gave Orson Hyde a trip back on his wagon after Orson had betrayed the Saints. "I also divided my morsel of bread with him, but I was not much in love with apostates, . . . but I saw that Brother Hyde was on the stool of repentance and he did repent good."

At the young age of 24, Allen was called on a mission. He was set apart by Hyrum Smith April 20, 1840. He left Nauvoo on foot to go south. His intention was "to try to preach the Gospel, young and unlearned as I was, but I had never spoke in public in my life ...I did call on the Lord for strength and wisdom to enable me to perform my duty with an eye single to his glory." A letter was written to Allen from Hosea reporting the sad news that the prophet Joseph Smith was in danger in Missouri. Allen hastened back to Nauvoo. He worked as a carpenter, a fisherman, and received a commission as Third Lieutenant in the Nauvoo Legion October 20, 1842. At the age of 27 years and working as a teamster for Miles Anderson, he fell in love with Elizabeth Anderson and was married by Charles C. Rich on July 17, 1843.

On July 8, 1843, Allen was promoted to Captain, First Company, Nauvoo Legion. Hosea and Allen were determined to protect the life of the Prophet Joseph Smith. In Martha Cox's journal, page 78, she relates the following story: While Allen was serving as a bodyguard to the Prophet, they (Allen and the Prophet) saw a man coming toward them. When he was near, the Prophet said to Allen: "Wait here while I speak with this man." Allen waited for sometime a short distance away while Joseph Smith spoke with the stranger. When the Prophet returned to where Allen was, Allen was very upset for being so negligent as his bodyguard. The Prophet said: "That man wouldn't hurt me, he was John the Revealer."

Allen writes that after Joseph and Hyrum were taken to Carthage and jailed, the Prophet wrote an official order to Jonathan Dunham to bring the Nauvoo Legion to Carthage to save "him from being killed, but Dunham did not let a single man or mortal know that he had received such orders, and we (the Legion) were kept in the city under arms not knowing but all was well, "till the mob came and forced the prison and slew Joseph and Hyrum Smith".

Allen relates that the dead bodies were brought to Nauvoo. There he "saw their beloved forms reposing in the arms of death, which gave me such feelings as I am not able to describe." After the martyrdom of the prophet, Allen joined the Nauvoo Police Department. His salary was one dollar per day in "city script." In January, 1845, when the Illinois legislature repealed the Nauvoo City Charter even this pay ended. This act also ended the existence of the Nauvoo Legion. Brigham Young explained that they no longer could be paid, but if they would render their service, the Lord would provide for them. He was soon offered a job which gave him income. In 1845, Brigham Young asked him to be his own personal body guard. He served in that capacity until the following fall when he became Heber C. Kimball's personal guard. At the Kimball home, Elizabeth and Allen were sealed for all time and eternity. It wasn't until December 20, 1845 that the Nauvoo Temple was completed and Allen received his endowments.

During the winter months of 1845-46 Allen writes that they could not remain "in Nauvoo any longer, without fighting all the time." The Stouts were preparing for their journey to the West. The journey was very challenging due to his rheumatism attacks and the difficult weather. On February 10 the Stouts crossed the Mississippi. The severity of the weather forced the family to camp at Sugar Creek for several weeks. It was a difficult day when Allen lost his wife after she gave birth to their third child, Martha Ann. Elizabeth died January 30, 1848. Since 1846, they had remained in Council Bluffs.

Allen was left in "a benighted condition without a wife, with three little helpless babies and a journey of 1100 miles to perform without an animal to help me, and what to do I did not know. So I continued to pour out my soul in prayer to God day and night for him to open up some way for me to support my little ones and get them to the Valleys of the Mountains."

He sent his three children to live with his sister Anna. He hired a girl named Amanda Melvina Fisk to look after his children. She began work April 8, 1848. On April 30, Brigham Young performed the marriage ceremony for Allen and Amanda for all time and eternity. They moved to Pigeon Creek, Iowa where they rented land and planted a garden. He taught masonry and guarded cattle at night. All money was saved for the great trip west. Amanda gave birth to her first child April 16, 1849: Lydia Mariah Fisk Stout. Though illness came their way and financial trials were their lot, they were able to leave for the Rockies in July, 1851. March 9, 1851, their first boy arrived: Alfred Fisk Stout. In late June 1851 Allen bought a wagon and hired three yoke of oxen from the "Perpetual Emigration Fund," and was ready to make the trek to the land of religious freedom by July 4, 1851. It was a difficult journey but to their great joy and relief they arrived at the Salt Lake Valley October 2, 1851 at Hosea's home. Amanda was so sick she had to be carried into the house.

Amand Fisk Stout, David's Mother

Let us stop and look at Amanda Fisk Stout, our courageous mother of David and a great pioneer. We truly wish more was written by our women but reading and writing was a luxury on the American Frontier for women. Education was directed more toward the men who would be providers for their wives and children. Thus, education for women was very restricted. We can only imagine their fears and struggles as we listen to the narrative of their husbands. Amanda, daughter of Alfred and Mariah Sager Fisk, was born in Silver Creek, Chautauqua County, New York, June 12, 1832. Silver Creek lies on the shores of Lake Erie in western New York. Alfred and Mariah joined the Mormon church soon after it was organized. (Alfred is the tenth generation from Symond Fiske, an English Noble 1390-1464). He married Mariah about 1831. Parley P. Pratt was proselyting in their area but we do not know who converted them.

The Fisks and Sagers moved to Kirtland, Ohio soon after Amanda's birth. When Amanda was two years old (1832) she was blessed by the Prophet Joseph Smith. In 1834 her father, Alfred was called to go to Jackson Co. Missouri to redeem the land for the saints. He marched in Zion's Camp to the banks of the Missouri River. Cholera took the life of Alfred at this time. He was buried June 29, 1834. In the summer of 1835 his family started for Missouri. After they arrived there, Mariah also took sick and died, leaving Amanda an orphan at a tender age of three years. We suppose she went with her grandparents, Hezekiah and Rhodah Fisk, who were traveling west in the same company. By age 11, she saw many of her family die: her grandparents, and five of their children. With whom she lived we don't know. We know she was hired by Allen to care for his children at the tender age of 16 and married him that year on April 30, 1848. During the next twenty eight years, she gave birth to a child every other year. By nineteen she had crossed the plains to the Salt Lake Valley and had two little babies of her own giving her responsibility of five children.

July 23, 1852 she received her endowments in the Endowment House. She moved often with the task of "settling the West." She journeyed from Salt Lake to Centerville, on to Pleasant Grove, and off to "Dixie," Utah in 1861. Living in tents, covered wagons, and crude dwellings was her housing. Wet weather gave her attacks of rheumatism. In 1885 she stayed in Rockville, convalescing from a broken leg that never healed. She did temple work in her declining years and died of a stroke Sept. 21, 1888.

Daisie Stout Richardson remembers her Grandma Amanda:

"She lived in Father's home the last months of her life. She died of paralysis, the third stroke ending her life. The only thing I can remember of her in life was Mother, Aunt Julia and maybe Aunt Sadie staggering under her bulk as they attempted to move her from one part of the room to another. I can easily believe Father when he said her average weight was 235 pounds and that she had even been 275 pounds.

I remember her funeral.....and seeing Father cry. Grandfather Stout (Allen) followed her soon. I remember him much better; his large, long ears, his blind eye, and Aunt Julia cutting his hair at one time. He was not bald at all. I remember very clearly well sitting on his lap and hearing him call me `Darlin.' No other person ever called me that. I thought it a beautiful word. I suppose the wealth of affection prompting it made it music to my ears. I was five years old when he died and if Father cried at his funeral, I did not see him."

Getting Settled in the Valley

Getting settled was no easy job after Allen and Amanda Stout arrived in the valley of the Great Salt Lake. Charles Heber, their first son died November 19, 1852. Though this was a great sorrow, a new baby boy was born December 14, 1852: Hosea Fisk Stout. At this time Hosea, Allen's brother, had been called to China on a mission. Louisa, Hosea's wife passed away, so Allen and Amanda took care of his three children as well as their own. In 1853 Hosea's children went with their grandmother and Allen and Amanda moved to Centerville, in what is now Davis county. Here the family built a home and settled down. Allen raised a garden, hauled wood, sold essence, and manufactured ginger beer. The stream of California immigrants who were passing through Utah created an excellent market for his beer. It was here that the object of my research was born: David Fisk Stout, February 3, 1855, my great grandfather. In April, 1857, Allen moved his family to a farm on Big Cottonwood Creek. Because of the arrival of Johnston's army, all had to move again to Pleasant Grove. Here he built a home and proceeded to make malt beer for sale. This proved to be a profitable business. By 1861 the family was prospering and enjoying their farm and business. It was at this time Brigham Young called the Stouts on a mission to Southern Utah to settle Dixie. Hosea Stout was called to settle Dixie at the same time. The two families made the journey together. They arrived in Cottonwood Creek (Now Harrisburg) November 28, 1861. David was now six years of age and saw the great sandy red colors of the Southern land of Utah. His father suffered from frequent attacks of Rheumatism and from his sick bed in 1863 appealed to his children:

"To ever keep with the Church and observe the order of the Church. In all things obey council to the best of your ability. You must attend to the ordinances of the Priesthood for our dead parents, for we have not yet done our work. And if we do not live to attend to the holy ordinances, we want you to finish our work. We have worn out our bodies in laying the foundation for you to build on; we have grappled with the powers of darkness to help to commence a work which we know will never be destroyed, but we do not expect to live to enjoy much of the fruits of our labor; but we have labored for you that we might leave a rich reward with you. Be strong in the work of the Lord, and whether in life or death, your reward will be sure, and you shall conquer at last."

During this year, 1863, David was privileged to attend school. In March, 1864, Allen felt the need to move again, headed for the Mt. Carmel area, and staked out a claim about one mile and a half above Glendale called Lydia's Canyon, after his oldest daughter. They suffered great deprivations that year and survived with limited food, clothing, and shelter. In 1865, the family grew grain, potatoes, and vegetables. Allen had a serious eye injury from a branch of a tree which caused one eye to be blinded. On July 14, 1865, Orlando Fisk Stout was born, Amanda's 9th child and Allen's 11th. Now there was a new challenge: Indians. A fort was built, but the crises worsened so President Snow advised the settlers to move to St. George. This was a real problem for the large family and they narrowly escaped being attacked by the indians. The family arrived July 3, 1866, thanks to the kindness of W.C. McMullen who moved them there. With Allen's poor health and bad eyes, he took up basket weaving and fruit drying. Little Orlando died July 16, 1866. They moved into a home belonging to Isaiah Cox. From the depths of his adversities his joy was supreme in the knowledge that "I labor and toil in pain and sickness, my afflictions are light when I contemplate the glory that will come to those who endure to the end." In 1867 he discontinued the use of tobacco.

In the spring of 1868 he once again moved to Rockville. There he spent the last 21 years of his life. Five of his children attended Henry Jenning's school. Allen found employment teaching Masonry classes. Amanda gave birth to Marion Fisk on Nov. 20, 1876. She suffered greatly and was sick with dropsy for 12 weeks following. In April 6, 1877, Amanda and Allen attended the dedication of the St. George Temple, on which David had worked on a building mission. This was the second temple they had seen dedicated, the other being the Nauvoo Temple. Allen dedicated much of his life to temple work. Amanda died Sept. 21, 1888. June 5, 1889 Allen still made baskets for selling and drying fruit. He died December 18, 1889, spending his last 12 years doing temple work, outliving his two wives and brother Hosea. A great pioneer, a great father and husband, a man noble and true to the cause of the restored church of Jesus Christ. We are thankful for his life as our great-great-grandfather. We praise our grandmothers who were the unsung heroines of the pioneer settlements, who brought forth children under very limited and difficult circumstances. We praise you, oh valiant parentage. We thank our Father in Heaven for your example and sacrifice you gave to us, the future generation yet unborn.

To understand the call to Dixie or the Cotton missions, let us look at the purpose of the "cotton mission" which was the call given by Brigham young. The call to the converts who were from the South to try and grow cotton was accepted by Allen and Amanda. The call was as important to settle Dixie as any proselyting mission. There was a cotton shortage in America. One can only analyze history to understand why. Who were the cotton growers of America? The Southern plantation owners. What was happening at this time in American history? The Civil war was festering. The same anger of mobocracy that drove the pioneers to the Rocky Mountains was now enraging into a Civil war that was the worst war in our American history. Thankfully, our people were safe in the tops of the Mountains while the terrible carnage was taking place. We were obeying God's first commandment "to multiply and replenish the earth", and they were forgetting the commandment: Thou shalt not kill. Missouri was the state in which the church was so badly treated and curiously, it was the state that was burned and swept with great destruction. Vengeance is the Lord's, so be it. Though there were great persecutions to the early members, though they lost their homes and their properties and loved ones, being driven out of Missouri was a "blessing in disguise" for it prevented their participation in one of America's worst wars. Due to the war, cotton needs were important to the Church, and Alan and Amanda accepted the call to see if they could, indeed, be productive in this matter.

Jehu Cox, David's Wives' Paternal Grandfather

To understand the great wives that David married, we need to see the great pioneer ancestors of Henrietta, Julia and Sarah Cox, three sisters who David married. Let us turn the time table back and look into the Cox family. David's second wife, Mary Jane Terry, will not be reviewed in this paper.

Jehu Cox was the father of Isaiah Cox, who in turn was the father of the three Cox sisters. Jehu embraced Mormonism in 1838 in the state of Missouri by a missionary: Benjamin L. Clapp. He and his wife Sarah joined the church and followed the saints to Illinois. His roots go back to Pennsylvania 1703 (residence of grandparents). Jehu later moved to Virginia, and then Knox Co. Kentucky, then to Salt Creek Ohio, then to Bloomington, Indiana. The Bloomington area is where he met his wife: Sarah Pyle. After their marriage in June 13, 1824, Jehu moved again. He wanted a place where the family would be healthier. He chose the Ozark Mts. Missionaries came to the Ozarks and Jehu and Sarah recognized the truth and were baptized Jan. 12, 1838. In 1842 Jehu moved 3 miles near Nauvoo into Hancock Co. They left Nauvoo to cross the Mississippi River May 20, 1846, to Council Bluffs. At this time, their son Henderson ate 17, joined the Mormon Battalion there and marched off, never to be seen alive again. Henderson made the long march to California. He was discharged and became involved with the Gold Rush of Sutter's Mill (Jan. 24, 1848). He obtained a bag of gold and was on his way home when he was seized upon by Indians. His body was buried near the Sierra Nevadas . A historic point called tragedy Springs memorializes that sad June 27th.

The Cox family was traveling to Utah and may have been half way between Council Bluffs and Utah, not knowing the fate of their son, until arriving in the Salt Lake Valley. Jehu and Sarah spent 10 months at Winter Quarters, where a son was born but died the same day. Finally they were able to go west with the Heber C. Kimball company May 18, 1848. The company arrived at the Salt Lake Valley on Sept. 24, 1848, a critical time to face a hard winter with nine children. During their journey their little girl, Lucretia was run over by a wagon and killed on June 15. Jehu was appointed captain on one of the units during the westward movement.

In 1849 Jehu moved his family to the south bank of Little Cottonwood Creek (known as Union then). His fifteenth child Martha was born there Aug. 2, 1849. On Jan. 18, 1815, Jehu was ordained a seventy by B.L. Clapp, the same one who baptized him in Missouri. Later served in bishoprics and High Priest Groups. In 1855, He took his children and two married sons to explore Mt. Pleasant and Fairview. A grandson was born there. They took up sheepherding and farming. Indian problems followed them, taking their sheep and killing one son-in-law, David Jones. The Black Hawk war was on, so in April 1866 the family moved from Fairview to Mt. Pleasant, where they built a high fortress, known as fort Union.

In may 1874, the United Order was organized in Fairview, Jehu served as second Vice President, later served as President of High Priests' quorum. He served for 25 years as a Bishops councillor. In 1877 he went to St. George to do temple work. Returned to Fairview and died December 26, 1893. Sarah died Aug. 25, 1891.

Asenath Slafter Janes

David's Wives' Maternal Grandmother

Now let us look at the life of Asenath Slafter Janes, the mother of Henrietta, who was the mother of the three Cox sisters who married David. She was born at Mansfield, Tolland co., Connecticut, Aug. 18, 1796. At 36 years of age she married Josiah Janes (born Nov. 11, 1792). They married December 6, 1832 in Mansfield, Connecticut. They had three children. The first were twin boys that lived only a few days. On March 8, 1835 Henrietta was born. In 1839 Josiah joined the church. It took Asenath two more years to join and she and her mother and two sisters, Julia and Lucinda, also joined the church.

They moved to Nauvoo on May 15, 1841. Henrietta, only 9 years old remembers seeing the Prophet Joseph Smith. Sept. 6, 1844 Josiah died of suicide, perhaps being distraught with the prophet's death and the violence of the era. Sad indeed for a little girl and a wife to loose their provider.

Aseneth remarried in the Nauvoo temple to Samuel Bent. Samuel Bent later died Oct. 1, 1846. She also lost her sister Lucinda Sept. 12, 1846. Death had taken her twin boys, two husbands and now her sister. Henrietta and Aseneth had no traveling equipment to go west so they stayed on the west bank of the Mississippi River for four weeks before teams came from Council Bluffs, Nov. l. She arrived at Garden Grove 15 days later. Nine months later she traveled to Council Bluffs, crossing the river to Winter Quarters. She remained there until May, 1849. On June 25, 1848, her mother died: Eunice Fenton Slafter, 81 years old. On December 5, 1842 Aseneth remarried Benjamin Gibson but later separated. Undaunted, she went West alone, with her daughter Henrietta Janes, on June 4th, and arrived in the Salt Lake Valley 100 days later, Sept. 12, 1852. Henrietta, a lovely girl of 17 had walked nearly the entire distance. In 1854 they lived in Union Fort. Her daughter, Henrietta met and married Isaiah Cox, Jan. 1, 1856, the son of Jehu and Sarah Pyle.

Aseneth remained with her daughter and died Oct. 5, 1865 in St. George, Utah. One can only admire her endurance and faith as she lost so much in her life but gained so much through her faith and her only daughter Henrietta Janes.

Isaiah Cox and Henrietta Janes

David's Wives' Parents

Isaiah Cox was born May 18, 1839 soon after Jehu and Sarah were converted to Mormonism. He was the tenth of sixteen children. Isaiah was only seven when he crossed the mighty Mississippi River May 20, 1846 on to Iowa to Council Bluffs. He saw his elder Brother Henderson, march off with the Mormon Battalion never to see him again. The trek to the Rockies began on Isaiah's 9th Birthday May 18, 1848 and ended 129 days later, Sept 24, 1848. Union, or Cottonwood was his first home in the valley.

On May 13, 1849, almost 10 years of age, he was baptized into the Church by John Lowry. Due to Indian threats, the family helped build a 12 foot wall around a 10 acre lot. He was a builder as well as a night guardsman. Within this 10 acre fort were Asenath and Henrietta. Although Isaiah was only 16, he fell in love with Henrietta, age 20 and they were married on Jan. 1, 1856. Their first child, a daughter arrived Nov. 25, 1856 and was also called Henrietta, but she went by "Rettie". Feb. 10, 1858 they were sealed by Pres. Heber C. Kimball in the endowment house.

Isaiah was a real frontiersman and pioneer. He was active in the Echo Canyon war. He joined Lot Smiths company and helped harass Johnston`s army to prevent their entering the valley. Oct. 3, 1857 he helped burn 52 wagons filled with army supplies. Later they moved to Mt. Pleasant. Henrietta gave birth to Isaiah Jr. June 5, 1859, the first white child born at Mt. Pleasant. Thirty miles north of Mt. Pleasant (at the north bend of the river) is North Bend, which was their next move. June 30, 1861 Julia was born and the Coxes also received a mission call from Brigham Young to Settle Dixie. This meant another move to southern Utah. The family arrived in St. George the following October.

Washington County was a difficult and challenging region to develop. Isaiah was called to pioneer the cotton endeavor, do carpentry work on the old St. George tabernacle, and dedicated much time and energy in the pioneer effort of St. George. He helped assemble the first reaper in Dixie, and he brought the first horse powered thrashing machine in Washington Co. and operated it for many years. He entered polygamy Oct. 38, 1865 and was married by George Q. Cannon to Elizabeth A. Stout, daughter of Hosea Stout. Dec. 6, 1869 he married Martha Cragun, a fine teacher. His home was the United Order in miniature. " It was founded on character, integrity, virtue and charity. These are the four pillars on which a plural family is builded ."

1871 Isaiah was told by Brigham Young that a new temple would be built at St. George. With his carpentry skills he contributed much work and toil to see its completion. A trying time came to Isaiah and Henrietta and his wives when he invested 700 dollars in the Grand Gulch Mine. A Mr. Blackburn who sold him the stock, skipped town, and he had to pay his note in full while supporting 3 wives and 13 children.

In 1884 Isaiah was called on a mission to colonize Lower Muddy in Nevada. He was bishop there Dec. 29, 1884. In 1887 a very difficult time came to challenge their family and all Mormons. A crisis for the Cox family was caused by a federal law called the Edmunds Tucker Act. This act outlawed polygamy and scattered a very happy and united family. Henrietta went to live with her daughter "Rettie" Stout in Rockville. Martha went to teach in a mining town of Nevada, and Elizabeth went to relatives. But Isaiah married a fourth wife: Mary Jane Millet Sept 22, 1888 in St. George Temple and settled in Colonia Juarez Mexico until 1892. He also married the 5th time to Sophie A Morris.

Isaiah died April 11, 1896, having 29 children . He was 57 years of age.

Settling St. George and the Cotton Mission

The Cox and Stout families were sent by Brigham Young to see if they could use their Southern planting skills in order to produce cotton. They have similar accounts since they both had Indian problems, flooding and grasshopper trials, Governments injustices dealing with Johnston's army and the Edmund Tucker law. Their families merged with the marriage of David to "Rettie", Sarah or "Sadie" and Julia, all three cox sisters. Both families worked on the St. George temple, both families practiced polygamy, and both families were very devoted to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints or "Mormons". They followed Gods servants, the prophets and were steadfast in their faith, even if it meant walking from Illinois to Salt Lake City, to Saint George, and south to Mexico. For over fifty years the church tried to grow cotton and silk. Both families helped to build the Saint George temple as Labor missionaries. Both families participated in living the United Order and served proselyting missions.

Brother Andrew L. Larson has given us some background concerning the settling of southern Utah in his book: "I Was Called to Dixie". He gives us some insights and feeling for the area. He shares the Stout journal: The Virgin Basin was a village composed of cotton growers who were from the southern states, transplanted to see if they could reproduce their art of "cotton growing" in Utah. Mr. Larson states: "Stout was an exception to the usual Cotton Mission pioneer; at least he said he was happy when he got the call to go to Dixie, whereas most of them--the settled ones, at least-- accepted the call because it came from the church, not because they wanted to go. Being a southerner, Stout wanted to be " where I could raise some southern products". However, the weather was much wetter than Kentucky. From Allen's journal we read:

"I had no house but lived in a tent and wagons but I worked at building a hut between showers and in the rain.....My brother and me and our boys now began to plant cotton, corn and cane...but I had to mill every four weeks as a general thing, but by boys made a good crop with me to help them. In the fall of 1862 we harvested our cotton and cane and corn, and then worked at making a stone fence.

In the spring of 1863 we set in to make another crop....and I got out 300 fruit trees and some garden stuff. I am laid up with a pain in my side, so as to disable me from work, but my boys are out in the fields at work with all their mights...

July 9, 1863, The weather is very hot, and our water is nearly gone, so that it is uncertain whether we can save our crops or not....

July 21st...Rains in the mountains have cooled the air and raised the stream so we have plenty of water. Crops look well.

Aug. 24th. I gathered 65 melons and went North to trade them for breadstuff. I went 40 miles and got 16 l/2 bushels of wheat, but had to pay cotton for 14 bushels of it. I got some wool, cheese and butter....

Sept. 21st 1863, We began to pick cotton and that will be our work the rest of the fall. The week ending September the 5th I was laying up a loom house while the boys were watering, picking cotton and ground cherries, and working with the oxen.

Sun. 20th, I went to picking cotton and stripping cane the rest of the week.

28th Began to haul cane and get my molasses made, which took until Oct. 5th, I then helped Mr. Mullen get his cane out which took until the 8th of October. On the 9th I went with my family and three other boys and we picked 245 pounds of cotton.

29th I hauled some cane seed and the boys cut corn and picked cotton.

Due to flooding in the area, Harrisburg, (as this settlement was named) gradually declined and became deserted.

The grasshoppers have literally stripped everything we had here this spring. but our fruit trees are again making a start to grow. The vines are beginning to look well. We have planted all our wheat land to corn, which is looking well, so our prospect for a good crop of corn and cane is very good. None of us feel discouraged, for we know that Dixie will soon be the pride of Utah. We have no sickness, plenty of water, and an abiding trust in the Lord."

President Smith said" A great many Elders have been called to go on this Mission to raise cotton, and they should consider themselves as much on a Mission as if they were among the nations preaching the Gospel."

Yes, there was the opportunity to raise peaches, fruit, cotton, sugar cane, grapes, fall wheat, summer corn,but there was also the heat, the rugged mountains, the malaria.

It is believed that the area settled St. George was named for George A. Smith. Droughts and flooding were the trials of the new area.

Entertainment was various literary lights, livened up with readings, songs and musical selection. Sports were always favorites. A branch of the School of the Prophets was organized dealing with the spiritual and temporal problems. Social groups with the single students were held to enjoy subjects pertaining to literature, music, biography, history, and geography. Discussions on the Constitution of the United States, debates on the political issues of the day were interests.

Among the first settlers at Glendale (MT. Carmel)was Allen J. Stout
(First known as Berryville) He had 30 acres of land which they planted nine acres of corn, cane and garden stuff which grew well in the virgin soil. They made two hundred sixty rods of fence and built a rough log cabin in which to house his family, and then Stout returned to Harrisburg to bring the rest of the family, leaving the boy to look after the crop and the cows. Allen writes:

On the 6th of July, 1864 we set out for Long Valley. The weather was hot so we had a hard trip, for we had but one wagon, and the children had to walk; but before we got through the old wagon broke down; and we left the main part of our load and went in on two wheels. We got in on the 14th and found the boy well. On the 16th I went back and got the rest of the load and the broken wagon. We were now out of bread and had to live on meat and milk until the green corn came; but we lived through and made out to raise some corn, beans and other vegetables; but there was no mill, so we pounded and grated our corn. We had a deep snow which lay all winter, but the weather was not very cold. so my wife and daughter made clothes to keep us from freezing and the boys and me done all we could at fencing; and in the spring of 1865 we began to get in a crop."5

The Moapa Valley (as the Muddy Valley is called today) had serious challenges. The roads were a nightmare. The communications were difficult. No water and difficult traveling could mean quick disaster to the novice traveler. Building homes was a problem because of the long distance to the timber.

One the pioneers wrote

"we would go down in the swamps of the Muddy and gather these cat tails, tie them in bunches six inches in diameter. They grew ten and twelve feet tall. These were piled and tied on the roof and when laid in bundles evenly on the stringers and then on the cracks and tied and weighted, they shed the snow and rain and made a dry shelter. The Muddy proved to be a easy stream to control, and was really a clear stream."

The Legend of Utah's Dixie Sego Lilies:

A pioneer woman said she would stop crying
if her husband could find just one beautiful thing
in this wasteland of Utah.
"Day after day, as from his field returning
with shouldered shovel, he was watching, yearning
For some small offering that might bring peace
In to his home, and bitter tears would cease.

At length his faithful searching was rewarded,
No lovelier floral gems has earth afforded
Than those sweet Sego Lilies which he brought,
Whose brown eyes in their lavender chalice sought
the eyes of her who said no Art was found
in all these many, many miles around.

She clasped them to her heart and blessed the hand
Of him with whom she came to Dixieland.

George A. Hicks, 1864 wrote this and it sounds like the Stouts sentiments:

"Once I lived in Cottonwood
And owned a little farm,
But I was called to Dixie
Which did me much alarm;
To raise the cane and cotton
I right away must go;
But the reason why they called on me,
I'm sure I do not know."

DEDICATION

by Andrew K. Larson

Dixie Pioneers:They came, and left their loved ones far away.
Broke paths where human feet had seldom been,
Made glad the desert, tamed the rivers sway
Reclaimed for use the wasteland's frowning scene;
compelled reluctant earth her wealth to give
And worked with hearts near-breaking from their toil
In this hard land where weaklings could not live
Subdued the alkali, redeemed the soil;
Made stern, rude nature of her bounty yield--
They battled all her force on steady feet--
Gave earnest of their strength and will now steeled
To vanquish sickness, quicksand, drouth, and heat;
No longer frightened by the lusty river's roar,--
Its toughness stamped upon its conqueror--
Subdued the burning rocks and swelt'ring sand
And gave the name to Utah's Dixie Land!

Brigham Young was governor of the Territory of Deseret. This included about a sixth of the United States: Nevada, Utah, one third of California, a liberal slice of Oregon, some of Idaho, one third of New Mexico, half of Colorado, and one fourth of Wyoming. San Diego and San Bernardino Valley was part of Brigham Young's governorship. Brigham Young truly was the greatest American colonizer this country has ever known. The "colonizing" missions of the church were given with as much zeal as the proselyting missions. Such was the case with our great-great-grandparents.

Part of the Virgin River and its lower tributaries, the Muddy and the Santa Clara, are strategically located on the route to San Bernardino, and was very likely thought to be a way station for immigration from Europe to Utah, (by way of the Isthmus of Panama and California over the Old Spanish Trail). The purposed re-routing of immigration would have the advantage of winter travel which is nearly always practicable over that part of the Old Spanish Trail from the Santa Clara to California.

When Brigham Young asked for colonizers to go to San Bernardino, five hundred responded. They were dedicated to the cause of Zion and few became "gold seekers" as one may suppose. Actually, the colony was abandoned in 1857 when the brethren called them back due to the threat of the approach of Johnston's Army. San Bernardino was never reoccupied by the Mormons. However,the merchants of Salt Lake City continued their freighting goods with ox and mule team from the California ports.

Why was Brigham Young so insistent about production of cotton? Economically speaking, it was very expensive to buy from the East. The Civil War was raging which meant meager supply. Furthermore, the back bone of the mormon culture was to be self sufficient and not depend on others for what we can do for ourselves. October 1861 the call came to settle the Virgin to raise "cotton, sugar, grapes figs, almonds, olive oil, and such other useful articles as the Lord has given us, the places for garden spots in the South to produce."There were over 309 head of families called to the mission, including groups from San Pete county which were Scandinavians.

Allen records in his Journal as he attempted to settle Mt. Carmel:

On the 6th of July, 1864, we set out for Long Valley. The weather was hot so we had a hard trip, for we had but one wagon, and the children had to walk; but before we got through the old wagon broke down; and we left the main part of our load and went in on two wheels. We got in on the 14th, and found the boy well. On the 16th I went back and got the rest of the load and the broken wagon, We were now out of bread and had to live on meat and milk until the green corn came; but we lived through and made out to raise some corn, beans and other vegetables, but there was no mill, so we pounded and grated our corn. We had a deep snow which lay all winter, but the weather was not very cold, so my wife and daughter made clothes to keep us from freezing, and the boys and me done all we could at fencing; and in the spring of 1865 we began to get in a crop."

Now we know what David did when he was a young boy growing up under Allen's stewardship.

Grinding their grain was a real problem. They were so far away from the other settlers that it was too difficult to find a miller. In the case of Allen J. Stout, John Brimhall did the first grinding on a hand mill. John Harris built a primitive water power mill, using black volcanic rock in its construction. Though it was crude it did produce a fairly good grade of flour. The settlers produced good crops in 1865. One said, "I never saw better wheat, nor much better potatoes grow that we raised this year." The potato gave these early settlers a staple which was a good substitute for bread and little land is necessary to produce enough for a large family.

Celebrating July 4th and 24th

Besides the regular holidays of Christmas and Easter, July 4th, is an American holiday celebrating our independence from England. July 24th is a Utah holiday celebrating the first pioneer coming into the Salt Lake Valley in 1847, also known as the "Days of '47".

Because David F. Stout was the narrator for the July 4th celebrations, let us look at what our family did. July had two holidays which were dear to their hearts: Independence Day and July 24, Pioneer Day. Even though the weather was very hot, they enjoyed it the best of their ability. On July 4th, the day began with a sunrise salute of thirteen guns honoring the original thirteen colonies. A splendid bang was produced by two blacksmith's anvils and a small quantity of black powder. In the early morning, the music of bands were hear, brass or string serenaded the citizens. Next was a patriotic program usually in the meeting houses which were used for religious gatherings, school, and parties. Nearly always there was a parade. Recorded in C L Walkers diary:

"Warm and cloudy. The ceremonies of the day opened by an Artillery Salute, and Martial music and some little parade. About 10 a.m. the Citizens congregated under the Bowery where the Declaration of Independence was read. Orations, songs, and toasts were the order of the day. I gave a toast for the first time in my life."

The 24th was also a great time of celebration. A great parade with a Marshal of the Day led the way on horseback with both civic and church dignitaries following. The original pioneers were given a place of honor. Children were dressed in white and some youth, dressed in white,represented the different counties. Miss Utah as the central figure of the parade, was a beautiful young lady dressed in white and wearing a crown bearing the title "Utah." Not only must she be stately and beautiful, she must be gifted as well, able to recite, sing or speak during the program. The day began with the firing of salutes at sunrise, the serenading by the bands, a parade and then the program which everyone attended. The program had a talk by one of the pioneers from the first company to enter the Salt Lake Valley in 1847. William Carter often had this honor since he was in the first band and plowed the first ground in Salt Lake City. Someone from the Mormon Battalion gave a talk and Charles Walker's poem would be recited which was a harsh critique of congress and the country president that refused Utah statehood due to polygamy.

"Dear friends I pray just lend an ear while I relate a song. I do not mean disloyalty, or anything that's wrong. But all of you will bear me out in what I now relate, That Uncle Sam has been unkind in denying us a state."

Many stanzas poked fun of the rascalities of the federal judges: Brocchus, Brandebury and Drummond.

"In Fifty-seven the Army came to kill us all; you know
God placed a hook right in their jaws, and kept them in the snow,

While we a few rough Mormon Boys thought we'd give them relief,
By burning trains and driving stock and killing us some beef.

How much they suffered in the snow no mortal man can tell,
Half froze they wandered 'round Ham's Fork, and wished the saints in hell,

Whilst we were all quite blithe and gay, not fearing Johnston's fools,
The "Flower Uncle Sam's Army" were feasting on dead mules.

After a few more stanzas the grand finale, the last chorus:

God bless the noble Pioneers, God bless the Twenty-fourth;
God bless our thriving settlements, from extreme south to north;

God bless the old Battalion Boys, who went to Mexico;
God bless the Saints in Dixie Land, and God bless brother Snow

Chorus: Then shout and sing, Oh Zion's Sons, three cheers for Deseret;
Although they've often killed us all, we're all alive, you bet!

This pattern was similar throughout the many colonies of Deseret.

Today the 24th of July parade is one of the largest parades in America.
A great tradition for all of the Stout family.

On June 1, 1863 the Dixie saints held services for the cornerstone of the St. George Tabernacle. President Young spoke and admonished the saints to develop musical talents. He called Charles J. Thomas, who was the conductor of the Tabernacle choir to Dixie to teach music. David F Stouts Brother, Hosea (same name as his uncle) participated in the church choirs. Hosea had taught David singing lessons and taught a church choir in his ward.

Some miscellaneous stories of pioneers is of Mary Langston Stout, whose husband Alfred had a leg terribly mangled in a fight with a bear, saved her mate's life by poulticing the wound with hot bread and milk after gangrene had set in. (Grandma Achsah Stout McOmber used the same idea on my father Calvin D. Mcomber when he had eaten some poisoned wheat. After digesting it, he had relief).

In 1884 Alfred and John Stout were sawing timber on the mountains when they had an encounter with a bear. Alfred wounded the bear, but did not kill it. The enraged animal got hold of him and gave him a terrible mauling. As the bear grabbed for him, he instinctively brought up his knees to protect his face and throat after the bear had knocked his gun from his grasp and sent him sprawling with a swipe of a huge paw. The animal got his claws and teeth in to Ap's leg from ankle to above the knee, and by the time his brother John had managed to fire a shot to a vital spot the bear had torn young Stout's kneecap loose and had clawed and chewed the leg into a bloody mass. To get him to a doctor was out of the question--it was a two-day's journey to Rockville. They made the bed for the wounded man on the cabin floor. When they took off his boot, it was full of blood, and he was near to fainting. The men dressed the wound, and on the second day Mary's brother Calvin had her watch how it was done, for she would have it to do with the men at work getting out lumber. There were fifteen of them to cook for as well as the care of her own children the youngest a baby of only four months. But let her tell the story herself:

"The next day I stayed in to help, and as Brother Cal kept saying, "When you dress this in the morning to fix it this way." I told Daddy that he expected me to dress it. Daddy did not want me to, thought I could not stand it, but the next morning I dressed it, and from then on it was my job. I had to keep the kiddies out of doors all day, because he was so nervous and thought they would fall on him. He was lying on the floor on a pallet in the middle of the room and we had little bed room that the children and I slept in... They got some wild sage and I steeped it and washed his leg till it was the color of buckskin. Then I was told to get some bark and steep it together and bathe it with that. They brought the bear down and skinned it and I rendered the oil from it. I made salve of the oil and the balsam off trees and sugar and it was the best salve I ever used. He got along fine till the ninth day when a fever came on and for three days he was delirious. He did not sleep nor let me sleep. Toward morning on the third night I was so done up I could not stand alone so I called Jake to come and stay with Daddy till morning. The boys were hurt that I did not call them before, but I thought I could make it all right. One day, I do not just remember just what day, some Indians came in and asked if they could watch me dress it. I said yes. Then I took the bandage off they threw up their hands in the air and told me to cover him and let him die. That he could not live. I laughed at them and told them he would not die. They were scared but ignorance is bliss for I did not know the green patch on the wound was gangrene but they did. I thought it was caused from the herbs I was bathing it with. They went to town and told the doctor and he said that if the Indians told the truth that Ap was dead before then. Well, One morning I dressed it and it looked all right, but about an hour later he began to beg me to undo it and see what was the matter. He said it felt like a stick was sticking it. I told him it was all right, but finally I undone it and there was a black streak. It went up from both wounds and was within eight inches of his body. Well, I knew what that was--inflammation--and was I frightened. I thought, well, if I go down to the mill and tell the men, they will say it is all up with him, and I just could not do it, so I put the cloth over him and told him to hold it there so the flies could not get to it. I went to the bedroom and asked the Lord to let me know what to do and He knew I meant it and needed his help. I came back, went to the milk cupboard and put a six quart pan of morning milk on the stove. Took a warm loaf of salt-rising bread, and put the bread in the milk. When it was hot, I put on the wound a bread and milk poultice. When I had changed it twice he was asleep, and the black streak was all gone. God blessed my efforts and he got well, but he laid on his back on that pallet on the floor for twenty-one days without getting up. He weighed about 250 pounds when he went down, but was only skin and bone now. He had to go with crutches for a while but when I tell you that blow-flies were very thick and no way to keep them out of the house and that they blowed the bedding on the outside till I would get as much as a teaspoon full; Although it was the last of July we had to keep a fire all the time. For gauze I tore up my sheets and tablecloths. Of course I have not told you all that happened but you can imagine the rest. Even then you will never know all that happened. But I do know the Lord will come to your aid if you pray and trust in him."

The environment was a religious, educational, and challenging one. It had many life threatening moments. In spite of the great adversities, they survived and kept their faith. They learned to work hard and to have pleasure through music and dancing. Games were played. " Rook" was a favorite card game played by many of the Stout family members. Singing and sports were favorites. But the most important blessing of this age, was the fact that families worked together, had had struggles together, and shared each others burdens. This is what bonded the family and helped them succeed. Yes, it was a time of struggle and hardship, but it was also a time of giving and helping and sacrificing all one had for the family and the cause to build the Lord's kingdom here on earth. No wonder it was the ground work of great men and women. No wonder it produced a strong generation to lead the future.

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RETTIE COX AND DAVID FISK STOUT

(Parents of the Author's Grandmother, Achsah Stout McOmber)

The first wife of David, Henrietta Cox, is the daughter of Henrietta Janes and Isaiah Cox, known as "Rettie". Rettie was the first child of her mother and 17 years old when she was introduced to David Fisk Stout. David was visiting his cousin, Elizabeth Stout Cox (daughter of Hosea and second wife to Isaiah.) Young David was called to St. George on a building mission for the St. George temple. A romance developed between Rettie and David and the couple were married on May 17, 1875. Apostle Wilford Woodruff performed the ceremony for all time and eternity in the endowment house at Salt Lake City. Rettie left St. George and moved to Rockville with David. They lived there for 22 years.

in Rockville. David was a gardener, fruit grower and student of government and theology. Rettie taught school the first two years until her first baby was born: Henrietta III, May 4, 1878. To their sorrow, their first little girl died June 11, 1879. Rettie suffered from ill health and David struggled with rheumatism attacks which afflicted him all of his life. Their sorrows healed as a new child was born on December 23, 1881: David Fisk Stout, known as young David. This baby also became very sick and the young couple pleaded for his life. This request was granted.

David served as counselor to the mutual in 1875 -- Later was President Dec. 2, 1879, which he held until his mission in 1886. In 1876, Rettie was president of Y.L.M.I.A., which she served until Dec. 5, 1881. At this time David prayed earnestly about the truthfulness of the gospel and the doctrine of plural marriage. He felt the doctrine was true and wanted Julia's hand in marriage. She refused which was discouraging to David. However, two years later he was successful. David loved the Church and gained a strong testimony of its divinity. David hauled grain to the mill & worked in the molasses mill in Springdale- Rettie taught school while her mother came with her 5 year old daughter, Artemesia to help care for little David.

David was involved in the Edmunds' Act being debated in Congress. Feb. 26, 1882, David took an active part trying to win Statehood. May 22, 1882, David voted "yes" to Utah's proposed Constitution. David was convinced God's law of Polygamy was higher than man's law,

(See end notes about the federally proposed : Edmund Act.)

We suppose their first home was two miles below Rockville - which once was Grafton. After Grafton, David made a deal with Paul Huber for a big rock house in Rockville. March 16, the family moved into their new home where they lived for 16 years. Nineteen children were born there. It was 36' long, 20 ft wide & 15 ft high. The 10 acres it was located on gave David ample work and room for his big family. On January, 24th, David was appointed Justice of the Peace by the Washington County Court. His jurisdiction was between Springdale and Grafton. This is where my grandmother Achsah was born. I would like to quote her about the Rockville home.

"On the banks of the Virgin River, in a large rock house which nestled at the foot of lofty canyon walls, a small band of pioneers settled. Brave they were and religious too, for it was at the call of Brigham Young, their prophet, that they settled this historical spot. Twice before it had been abandoned, but these brave, thrifty pioneers stayed at their post bravely fighting against tremendous odds. It was at this little town, Rockville, Utah, on November 12, 1889, I was born. Of all the places I have lived none was more dear to my heart than this, my first home. How well I remember the huge Mulberry trees that grew in front of our home. A limb or two had been cut off for making a churn or a chair. How often my sisters and I had climbed into this play-house in the tree and played. The Indians used to gather the mulberries from these trees. They would make human ladders of themselves. A squaw would stoop over while another would climb on her back, grasp a limb, and swing into the tree. After shaking the limbs vigorously she would climb down, join her co-laborers in gathering the berries, and then march off.

The large rocks on this little place were almost as dear as the members of the family. Two large rocks I remember particularly. One was located in the center of our garden. Grapevines had been planted around it and they had literally covered it up. It resembled a huge green bee-hive. Very often my brothers and I dug our little toes in the vines, climbed to the top, and filled our little tummies with the delicious grapes. The other rock provided an excellent fence for the corral. We children used to dance and play upon it while the folks milked the cows and tussled with the calves. During the summer the folks dried tons of fruit. We little girls filled and empties the pans or baskets of fruit and set it out to dry. With the proceeds of this and teaching school, father was able to go on a mission (1894). He served as President of the Northern States Mission. At the age of 7, 1897 my family left this delightful home and moved to Hinckley where it was cold, windy and muddy. It was a country full of hay and cattle. How I hungered for the fruits and vegetables of dear old Rockville."

An Account of David's Life, condensed from his Journal

The following information is a condensed version of David's journal

In the years of 1883-84, Julia Cox, Rettie's sister, also taught school at Shoonesburg, three miles up the River. Julia would visit her sister on weekends.In 1884- David records a talk given by President John Taylor and George Q. Cannon at a conference exhorting them to "withstand the trials which were coming as Abraham of old." The scriptures said that to receive the blessings of Abraham one must be tried as Abraham. Was not Abraham promised to have posterity as numerous as the stars in the sky and the sands of the sea? Polygamy certainly would fulfill that promise. President Cannon spoke very firmly: "The spirits in Heaven would say: 'Father give me a birth under the covenant where I can hear thy word taught in my childhood!"- With humble prayer, David decided to obey the law of plural marriage.

June 13, 1884, David married Mary Jane Terry, daughter of James P. and Mary Richard Terry. Born Sept 26, 1857, Draper, Utah.

On June 18, David took another wife, Miss Julia Cox, Rettie's Sister - Both in the St. George Temple.

"God has given me two Bright & pure jewels." Since the Edmund Tucker law put "heat" on these marriages, David kept it unknown to the community. By law anyone practicing polygamy could not hold office - David resigned as Justice of the Peace Oct. 17th.

Aug. 1884- Daisie was born to David & Henrietta. By October
22nd Mary Jane helped babysit while "Rettie" went back to School teaching. David made molasses for trade and was YMMIA President.

In 1885, the federal government sent marshals to imprison anyone practicing polygamy. David took caution from the Federal lawmen seeking after him. David sought refuge in Learnington where he worked for his brother-in-law and cousin, Lewis Stout, son of Hosea. David cut timber, made railroad ties and hauled them. Mary Jane went to Rockville where her first son was born: Morgan Terry Stout April 16, 1885.

Later on Julia had a son. Irving Waldo was born unto Julia Sept 30. -David traveled by Night to visit & rejoiced to see two new sons.

All 3 wives were school teachers.

Rettie taught in Rockville, Julia at Duncan & Mary Jane at Springdale. Henrietta, (Rettie's mom) was chief cook.

In 1886 Anna Stout Jones died on Jan. 16th. We are indebted to her for marrying a Mormon in 1831- who introduced Allen Joseph and Hosea to the Church.

Hosea Stout taught music lessons and was the leader of music in Rockville. David took weekly singing lessons and attended his ward choir.
May 25 - David was called on a mission by President John Taylor.
He accepted. Mary Jane's only son, Morgan, became ill and May 31st
David was scheduled to go to Harrisburg. After David left, Morgan died and David returned to comfort Mary Jane. The funeral was June 1st and David prepared for this missionary departure with sorrow.
June 8th David left for Salt Lake- He boarded a train headed for the East.
June 19th David arrived in Minneapolis. His first assignment with Elder Johnson June 23 was Chester, Olmstead Col., 80 miles, Southeast of Minneapolis.
June 27th 1st town meeting where David was (after departing) threw stones at him.
July 1st- Dixter was very hostile - No one attended meeting - then headed for Chatfield, Fillmore County, bathed in the Root River - (whose waters were as sweet & clean as any he had seen in Utah."
David wrote an article for the Juvenile Instructor

Vol 21, page 295 - "Justice of Divine Judgments" his companion bought him a suit due to his meager appearance.
"He met many & preached & found Stouts in Stoutville- 70 attended their Nov. 28 meeting, though no one was baptized. George Stout refused & mocked them, & they shook off the dust from their feet against him. East- Ringgold - again great rejection.

His mission was met with great prejudice persecution - Industry, Pittsburgh, Liverpool, to Forestville, 2 weeks with the Fisks.

N.Y. met his mother's cousin Ellen Doby. On to Kirtland, Ohio sought another Mother's cousin Eliza Morley & visited the temple - The reorganites were hostile especially toward polygamy.

In Ohio he attended a Josephite meeting in the Kirtland temple and met "young" Joseph (the Prophet's son & leader of Reorganized.) For David it was difficult to understand how a prophet like Joseph Smith could have a son that would fall into such apostasy!
April 15 - David returned to Pittsburgh concluding that Kirtland was a "den of Apostates."
Coal Valley held a meeting & baptized 7 people at Costello, Potter County, David & the elders held 17 meetings, walked 300 miles & "Many gospel conversions in July".
Went West to McKean, to Kane - baptized Mr. & Mrs. Charles Peterson - Visited the tomb of Thomas Kane, friend to the Mormons. In coal Valley he met James P. Terry his father-in-law who was also in hiding from officers of the Law due to polygamy.

Four persons were baptized in Liverpool, Ohio and Rochester Pa.

In 1887 - David walked 2000 miles, blessed 17 children, baptized 17 persons, confirmed 12 others, held 181 meetings, preached 154 sermons - & shook off the dust at 14 persons.
1888 - Mission Completed (May 14)

Homesick Missionary

David knew what is was like to be homesick. He longed for his family, his wives and his children. His mother suffered from a stroke and he longed to see her. Brother Terry wrote him a poem of encouragement which is needed for all missionaries laboring in the field:

A Missionary's Dream

Home Sweet Home
To my loved ones at home.
I do pray for you wherever I roam.
So may the Lord bless you
My dear ones at home,
For I can assure you there is no place like home.
Home sweet home, there is no place like home.

But with honest good will
I shall stay here till mission filled
And when it is done
With joy and thanksgiving
To my home I will come.
Home sweet home
There is no place like home.
Then for me do pray
That no harm or evil shall come my way.

Response:
Dear husband and father
We are thinking of you
By day and by night
We pray to the Lord
That He will keep you
And shield you from every harm
That when your mission is done
Again unto us
You surely will come.

Signed: James P. Terry, David's Father-in-law.

David received encouragement from these words and gathered strength of finish his mission. At thirty three years of age, he was now called to be president of the Pennsylvania Conference.
Received word that DE Harris would replace him as Mission President. He worked in Fayette to solve some difficulties there.

After his mission he attended the 17th ward at Salt Lake City. As he made his way to Millford, the conductor hid David in the "official car" lest there might be marshals at the Milford depot waiting for his arrival. The conductor let David out after he had made sure "the coast was clear". The journey home was on foot, a lift to Minersville, through Cedar City to Crystal Springs, traveled all night to reach his family at 4:00 AM Not until evening did David dare to visit his dying mother, lest the marshals find him.

The marshals were very active during this time, friends were arrested and the Cox home was raided. The authorities advised David not to bring his new bride to the Temple. He proposed marriage to his fourth wife, Sarah L Cox, sister of Rettie and Julia, and was married in secrecy June 26th. They were married in the Tabernacle in secrecy. (Sarah was born Dec. 20, 1866). Sarah joined her sisters, but Sarah and Rettie narrowly escaped the marshals by hiding in the cornfield.

He was advised not to attend his Home coming missionary report due to the marshals. July 28th Emerald, a new son was given a name and blessing.

Daisie Richardson remembers when her father returned from his mission.

"This mission served to keep the marshals from catching him, as well as to give him the great privilege of preaching the gospel to those who were in darkness. When he went on this mission, three of his five children were living. David, Irving and I.

Father's mission ended and he returned dodging the dreadful marshals as soon as he reached Utah, especially Southern Utah where we lived. Speaking of marshals, I might mention that for many years all polygamists were hounded by the law. All tried to escape the marshals, women as well as men. Children were taken as witnesses. Many amusing incidents might be told, some not so amusing. Men were taken and imprisoned. As for me, my childhood was darkened by the fear of the marshals. We were taught our prayers (secret) and we always prayed that the marshals would not get "Poppee".

They never caught him although they tried many times. The last time I remember that they tried to get him (finally the marshals ceased their persecution--I suppose because of the manifesto) I was eight years old. Mother was teaching school on the Muddy; I think Aunt Mary Jane was living temporarily with her parents, Aunt Julia was teaching school at Harrisburg, and Aunt Sadie was living in the old Rockville home. Aunt Sadie was washing when Father came in quite excited and said, "Dyer is in town," (the dreadful marshal) and then disappeared. He got his niece, Mayne Stout Hirschi, to come finish the wash while Aunt Sadie and I disappeared also. Before she arrived and as soon as I heard the news, I lifted up my voice and wept both long and loud.

Something had to be done about the racket I was making, so Aunt Sadie did it. "If you don't stop crying the marshals will come and carry me off and you'll never know it." (My eyes always went shut when I laughed or cried so there was truth in her comment.) As I remember it my noise ceased. Mayne came and Aunt Sadie and I (and what children she had) went across the road and hid in the Relief Society one room house. I well remember her kneeling and praying for protection in a whisper. After a few hours we emerged from our hiding place safe and sound. Father was not caught, as I have mentioned before."

July 18th Mary Jane had the 7th child, Vernon Wesley, and David returned to the rugged mountains of northern Arizona. David returned to Rockville to see the eighth child born, Achsah, Nov. 14th, Rettie's daughter. (The authors Grand-daughter)
Dec. 18, 1889 His father died.
Feb. 24, 1890, Wendell Snow was born, Sarah's first child.
Vernon Wesley, died Aug. 15th, Mary Janes 2nd son to die.
1890 David returned to Rockville back to his mill in Trumbull
May 31, 1891,, David named and blessed Valeria, the 10th child and first daughter of Mary Jane, born May 23, 1891.

Illness strikes again. Valaria is ill, with Mary Jane. David and Rettie are quite sick.
May 24th, the 14th child arrived: Madona, Mary Janes daughter.

David was interested in assisting the construction of a new canal in an area known as Hurricane. However, on March 12th David received a letter from the first presidency calling him to the presidency of the Northern States Mission. His family supported his call though it weighed heavily upon his mind to leave them. "My family feel the call quite heavily as it certainly leaves upon the heads of my family the heavier burden...."But not one of the inmates of my home would see me refuse to obey the call to go on this mission."

April 5th, he spent three days of intense preparations, speeches, farewells, and parties. Tearfully goodbyes and difficult partings were felt by all the family. Rettie accompanied him to Milford .

April 13th, David was set apart by John H. Smith, Francis Lyman and S.B. Young. April 14th left Salt Lake and arrived in Council Bluffs the following day. Many Josephites were in the Omaha area. June 5th left for Onawa and June 24th baptized Charles A Hall at Centropolis, formerly president of Hedrickite Church. George A Cole was also baptized. (He Later came to Utah and became a lawyer and chiropractor) (The Hedrickite church was located on the temple lot in Independence).

June 29th Reported traveling 679 miles preaching 11 sermons, baptizing 6 people. His work took him from Onawa to Kansas city.

David traveled from Kansas city to St. Johns, Kansas... back to Council Bluffs for conference. David directed elders from chicago to Marion Indiana, Covington on Wabash River, Indianapolis, Dayton Cencinvali, to Wilmington doing missionary conferences.
On Oct. 20th, he received word that Sarah had given birth to their 16th child, born Oct. 10th, her name was Genevieve. (pg 145) There were many travels and conferences to old mission grounds. On Dec. 12, David suffered an attack of rheumatism. He wrote to Pres. Wilford Woodruff and reported illness.

David recommended Joshua Reuben Clark (Father of Pres. J. Reuben Clark) Jan. 3rd, 1895 David received an honorable release to return home from Pres. Woodruff. Trying in desperation to cure his rheumatism, David tried some medicine which caused him great agony and suffering. The elders prayed for his life and the hands of the destroyer were stayed.

He returned home to be nursed back to health by Mary Jane and Sarah. Four months later David was well.

1896 Utah was admitted into the Union. There was a celebration. Feb. 14, he met Rettie who was teaching in St. Joseph (or Logan) that winter.

Rettie's father, Isaiah Cox, died April 11, while recovering from a bad accident.. David went back to the mill at Mt. Trumbull.
Aug. 22 Child 17 was born, Mary Jane's fifth, Melvina Agnes. They had a homestead in the mountains. In May Julia added their 18th child, named Ruth. David voted for the first time in twelve years, republican William McKinley and Rettie voted for William J Bryan. David went back to Mt. Trumball. It was David's custom to accept products in exchange for lumber, a trip to Harmony and Cedar City for trade.

David helped draw up city lots and organize townsites in Hurricane. 1897, Rettie returned to teaching.
March 20th David bought a 40 acre farm belonging to Warren Black in Hinckley which meant more room for a growing family. George Cole helped out and gave valuable assistance.

In June the Hinckley ward welcomed the Stout family. David was released from the Bishopric and left Rockville where he lived 29 years. He orated Independence Day and taught government in mutual. His brother Hosea was superintendent of Sunday School.

Nov. 9 Sarah had her fourth child (his 19th), a son named Carlyle.
Nov. 18th, the old Rock house was sold to Oliver DeMill.
May 2nd Rettie gave birth to a son :Dewey the 20th child of the family. Named after commodore Dewey.

Mary Jane, Rettie, Sarah completed the move from Dixie. David got active in Republican co. convention in Fillmore 1899 Jan. 16 Mary Jane had the 21st child Willard Richards Stout, her 6th and last child. Daisie began suffering from rheumatism. The colder climate was not helpful.

April 4, David left for SLC to attend general conference and returned home to see Daisie crowned May Queen, the entire town celebrated May Day . At this time, David bought 1/2 interest in a creamery as a new business in Hinckley. President Hinckley, Bishop William H Pratt and George Black were stock holders. Forty two pounds of cheese were manufactured the first day. They profited 30 dollars.

Their three room house was crowded so David purchased a farm at Church Farm (Abraham). The man he bought the farm from Mr. Sawyer became dissatisfied with the deal and terminated the contract. Bishop William Pratt stepped in and helped David out. " What could have turned out to be a great calamity, turned out to be a great blessing " wrote David. Besides farm work, the creamery, and home work, he made trips to Milford after a load of molasses which had been sent there from Rockville . Lumber was traded for the molasses at Scipio.

May 31 Sarah sold the family homestead for $450.00, which helped the hard pressed family. Julia contributed the 22 child: Thurlow on May 26.
June 12 -Debate between David & J.W. Peterson of Reorganized Church. David was helped by God to convince the members of the divinity of the true Church of Jesus Christ.

Their farm grew lucerne seed, hay for the horses and cattle.

Young David reports of his love for the gospel, and David S. writes, "I, having this day, heard what I have long looked forward to as a most desirable aim in life." David's greatest joy was the testimonies of his obedient children. Nothing made his happier than the success of his family.
July 4th- David is Orator again at Hinckley.
The family had 24 children - The farm had produced 112 bushels of lucerne and enough hay in the barns for the winter.
1900 - The turn of the century meant change for the Stout family.

The 80-acre farm was sold to George A. Black Feb. 6. March 17 David returned from a trip looking at a Job at a saw mill "Tom's Canyon" at Deep Creek. Four days later Rettie added -#23- Leland Moroni Stout - 9 1/2 lb. Sister Stocks served as Mid-wife. April 7 Milton Stout (David's Brother) died.
David took Sarah and left for Deep Creek April 17 - to operate Mr. Taylor's Saw Mill. Trials to get the mill operating discouraged Hosea, so he went home.
May 9th The mill began to run and his sons: Allen, Franklin, & Emerald assisted him. While David was gone, Daisie's health was becoming serious. She lost weight, had suffered greatly. Rettie decided a warmer climate in Dixie (Rockville) might be helpful, so she and Julia loaded up their children: Achsah, Juanita, Artie, Dewey, Leland & Victor (baby of George A. Black) and journeyed there. David went along as teamster to return the outfit to Hinckley.
"David writes " All offered a petition to our Heavenly Father for our dear afflicted Daisie, who is reduced to a mere skeleton of skin and bones. Oh, God grant to our dear girl deliverance from threatened death." Daisie recovered completely, later married and had six children, though she suffered a great deal from crippling arthritis.

I, Ruth, remember Aunt Daisie coming to visit my grandmother Achsah when I was about 9 yrs. old. She hand crocheted a little pink petty coat edge which I saved for many years. (I gave it to her grand-daughter Janean Richardson, while visiting in Kaysville.) "I treasured that heirloom
because I saw her crippled hands, curled & snarled with Arthritis, make the lovely edge of my Petty Coat. I kept it all these years.

Aunt Daisy would sing and hold little babies (which my Grandma Achsah baby sat) to her heart and rock & rock. She died at grandma's home 2715 Pole Line Rd. Pocatello, Idaho - In the same bedroom which I later had when we moved into grandma's house, I remember seeing my grandma crying & crying as they took Daisy away in the hearse, Daisy suffered a great deal. But she had a true pioneer soul. She never gave up and was a woman of endurance and strength and was an inspiration to me.
1901- David is troubled with Daisie's illness and the bondage of debt.
Aug. - Water supply ends and David leaves the Mill returning to Hinckley Sept. David returns and finds the farm under David Jr.'s care as a "splendid job."-

The Move to a Mormon Colony in Mexico

Francis Bunker of Bunkerville, Nevada - invited David to move to Mexico to avoid religious persecution. David accepted the invitation. The trip started Oct. 2. Two Wagons left Rockville traveled to Hinckley, and then to St. George where he joined Rettie and five children. They then headed for Bunkerville.
Four days of intensive preparations with Francis Bunker and their four wagons were ready to move south.
Oct. 19th The company: Rose Cox Bunker + 4 of their children, Rose's 2 sisters : Evelyn & Geneva (Henrietta Cox, & her daughter Misha & Edward Cox accompanied the party to Colorado River - then returned to Bunkerville. The Route: Down the Colorado River to St. Thomas Bonnelli's Ferry was $7.50 to cross the River,three days of climbing up Detrital Wash was necessary before roads were reached.

From the top of the mountains of Phoenix it required 10 days of desert travel; from Hackberry, Wikicup, Signal, & Congress Junction - to Wickenburg - Nov. 8th the family was in Mesa and went on through Florence - Redrock - Tucson - Benson.
Fairbanks to Naco, Arizona, In Naco (Nov. 21. David stepped on foreign soil for the 1st time.)
In Naco -Francis & David parted Company because Francis had problems with Passport papers --- David waited 25 days and decided to "move on"
Dec. 17 -- John Patten & Edwin Van Luven accompanied David - through Oaxaca over the Continental Divide - Horrible Roads to Colonia Dublan - Arriving Dec. 24. The Stouts were greeted by D. E. Harris - previous missionary companion & Mission President - Evelyn & Geneva stayed there for schooling.

The Blackest year for David's life was 1901 - After David traded his Hinckley Farm with a man in Diaz, where Irving helped prepare land for planting. David sent for his family to make preparations to move to Mexico. Rettie & children were in Bunkerville & were exposed to whooping cough. Little Leland died Feb. 17, 1901 -- After the burial, they moved up to St. George. David Jr. & Wendall arrived to move them again to Bunkerville. Rettie, accompanied with William Black, Bundy family, & Martha Cox left Bunkerville..... Crossed the Colorado River and followed the same Route to Naco.

Martha Cox noted in her journal the Casa Grande ruins -once of Book of Mormon times, Perhaps a temple. It is now in the town of Coolridge. David Jr. was employed freighting with his team & wagon in Naco . David Jr. contracted Typhoid fever, and succumbed Oct. 4th, A loss David Sr. never fully recovered.

The journey to Mexico was a journey the family will never forget. Many times Achsah would say in here latter years how the children would put hankies over their faces to protect them from the hot sun. " I remember seeing water spraying some horses in Tucson", perhaps a longing to enjoy such luxury with the horses. It must have been a time of thirst and heat for these children. The loss of David was a very difficult blow to all the family. Achsah related many times how she loved and adored her beloved older brother David. Before he died, David told his parents he saw the Savior. David was thrilled, but his parents realized that he was near to dying and they all sorrowed greatly.

Achsah relates the following story while living in Naco:

While my brother David was freighting to the Canninea Mines, Artie and I were eager to go with him. Other teamsters were allowing members of their families to accompany them. Why couldn't we go too? So after much coaxing, mother and David consented to our going to the mines. As I remember it took two days to reach the mines. The teamsters set up camp just outside of the town limits. The women folk stayed at camp while the men drove their freight into the mines, unloaded the coke, replaced it with the sacks of ore. As there was time on our hands, we with the other women, decided to go down into a big canyon and gather choke cherries. After wading through scrub oak, willows and brush, we arrived where the choke cherries grew in abundance. Our buckets were soon filled and we returned to camp to enjoy the luscious fruit at our evening meal. The following morning we asked brother David if he would like more choke cherries. Upon his reply in the affirmative, Artie and I set out, this time alone, down the deep canyon. Where were the choke cherries? Across, up and down and farther up we went, but no berries. At length, I heard the snap of a twig. Looking up the canyon, I saw a black swarthy Mexican coming toward us leading a burro. I touched my sister. She looked at my terrified face and followed my trembling finger. She paled, "Oh God, save us.". My heart hammered so, I feared more than ever. He certainly could see us as we crouched behind a leafless bush of willows some twelve feet from him. God not only closed his ears, but shut his eyes as he slowly passed us. We crouched there until he was far enough down the canyon that he could neither hear nor see us. We scurried up the canyon and onto the road, where we found we had wandered two miles from camp.

On the next and last trip, my brother made to the mines, I went with him alone. Artie apparently had had enough. At night as we looked into the starry heavens, my brother explained about the Lord's great creations, their marvelous order, their functions, the mission Jesus Christ, his part in it, the plan of salvation and doctrines. ....This was David's last trip to the mines. He came down with Typhoid fever; mother had studied and practiced medicine to quite an extent, but she labored long and desperately to no avail to conquer this disease. I remember one morning David woke up and looking earnestly at mother said: "mother, I've seen Jesus Christ; he told me my life had been acceptable to the Lord, and that I was a privileged character; I could go anywhere or place in his kingdom." I was thrilled but when I looked at mother's face it alarmed me. It expressed fear, apprehension and anguish. She quickly left the room and broke down and wept long and sorrowfully. I learned later that she and father had promised the Lord when David was an infant and desperately ill (they had lost their first child in infancy) that if He, the Lord, would restore and heal David until he reached manhood, then they would let him go or the Lord could take him. David was now critically ill.....He died at 9:00 PM..I sobbed and cried the whole night. It was the saddest funeral I ever attended and the most heart breaking experience. He had been so close to me. He was tender, kind, yet firm. He had all the virtues a mortal could acquire; his spiritual teachings, advice and counsel and most of all his example were never forgotten. His life was as a guiding light leading me to the best that was in me.

As soon as possible, after David's death, we packed our few belongings and were on our way to Colonia Diaz in company with other colonists, which was fortunate for us as we did not know the road. How I dreaded the coming reunion of Mother, Father and my Aunt's, father's other wives. Since the separation of our family at Hinckley, Utah, Leland, Melvina, and my older brother David and passed away. It was the most heartrending meeting I ever witnessed.

After settling in Diaz we felt our troubles were over but death struck again, and beautiful brilliant Carlyle, Aunt Sadie's boy of four, was stricken with pneumonia, and in four days he died. Ruth, a golden haired, angelic girl of Aunt Julia's took sick one morning just before I left for school and before I came home, she, too, died! Death was picking the flower of the flock. Typhoid struck again and Irving, another stalwart son was stricken and died. Would it ever end? Father fasted and prayed for four days. He looked so terrible and stricken, I feared for his life too! The folks then moved out of town on an acreage hoping the country might improve the family's health. While father was plowing, little Willard, Aunt Janes's youngest and only son followed his father, sitting on the damp earth which had just been plowed. Whether this caused his sickness and death, I do not know but in three days he too sickened and died.

After the death of Willard, Father, in desperation, moved to another location, Hop Valley, a small settlement west of Juarez. He left Aunt Julia and family with Daisie and me in Juarez, a town abundant in fruit orchards. Our purpose for staying was to can and dry fruit. Juarez was also the center of church activity down in that part. It boasted the only church academy in Mexico. The president of the stake, which included all the colonies, and all the church leaders lived her. In September 1903, sickness hit the family again. I was the victim abut here was a doctor who knew the disease and under his care I soon recovered. Mother, who had signed a contract to teach school in Diaz was called to my bedside. As soon as I was able to travel, father moved mother and family, along with Wendell, Aunt Sadie's oldest son, to Guadalupe, a little town south of Dublan. This little town was a branch of the Dublan ward and boasted twelve families. After arriving, father and mother converted one of the large rooms into a school room where together with the other children of school age, were taught the regular elementary subjects by mother. I remember this and the following year as the most fun time of my life. I was captain of a ball team and a dandy team at that.

Father maintained a home in Juarez too, where his children could attend the academy in the winter, and can and dry fruit in the summer. It was in this village my sister Daisy met and married Edmund Richardson.

In the spring of 1903, Arthur Benjamin Clark bought the said farm and his wife, the former Marinda McOmber and her son, Calvin, operated it. As Guadalupe was a small village and our home, the only place in which one and all could meet together, church activities were held there. It was at these socials, entertainments, M.I. A. and Sunday School organizations that I met, became acquainted, fell in love with, and eventually married Calvin Delos McOmber, stepson of A.B. Clark and son of Marinda Griffith McOmber Clark.

How well I remember at a Christmas party held in 1905, Calvin asked if I would go to a dance in Dublan the coming week. I replied I'd have to ask my mother. However, this date never materialized, for he was stricken with Typhoid Fever that night, which almost cost him his life. It took weeks and months before he recovered.

In 1905, I began to attend the Juarez Take Academy where I majored in a normal course in Teacher Training. I think this little Academy boasted some of the best teachers in the church. George Romney, Father of our Apostle, Marian G. Romney, Erastus Fellerup, Charles McClelland and last but certainly not least, my beloved Guy C. Wilson, who inspired and determined my future actions and standards regarding the training and disciplining of my children. He taught Theology, History, and Psychology. Throughout all the teachings of these subjects he brought out the overall plan of God in shaping the destinies of mankind: That he plants his footsteps on the sea, and rides upon the storm" For the good and salvation of his beloved children. In psychology he taught this truth, that one becomes strong by living a positive life, by determined effort in mastering difficult tasks of great achievement; that one is not strong by partaking of sin and vice then "repenting" of these sins...that one who sins is a slave to sin..that we are weak as long as we are tempted."

Knowing these truths, I took great pains to teach my children to shun the very appearance of evil, to form good food habits, as habits can be our friends or enemies. I took advantage of the great spiritual growth the Church affords. I literally lived by the church standards. The church was my staff and my stay in helping me shape the habits and character of my family. All that I or my family are or hope to be we owe to our Heavenly Father and His wonderful church.

In the summer of 1908, my husband and I started dating and continued through the winter as we attended the Juarez Stake Academy and in the summer of 1909, June 24, were married in Guadalupe by Bishop A.D. Thurber of the Dublan Ward. Three months later we boarded the train for Salt Lake City where we were sealed on October 7, 1909, in the Salt Lake Temple. We decided to remain in Blackfoot, Idaho and other towns in this locality as Emma Hale told us any one holding a hammer could draw a wage of five dollars a day, which was big wages for those days. However, my husband didn't find employment as a carpenter but began working for one Harvey Allred, selling Raleigh goods, spices, extracts, and other household items. This job lasted three months...We then moved to Groveland, Idaho, a few miles north of Blackfoot. My husband worked at anything he could find from sorting potatoes, hauling beans, to carpentry. How we longed to be in Mexico on our farm! But it took cash to travel and we were expecting our baby in April At 6 o'clock, April 11, 1910, I felt the greatest thrill I had ever known, the most miraculous thing I had ever witnessed: I looked upon my new born infant and thought what God had wrought!

This was the birth of her first son, Calvin Delos McOmber Jr. one of the finest people ever to be born on this earth, the author's father. Following the great event of our son, Calvin's birth, my husband found employment in building a home for Aunt Nellie Hale which afforded enough cash to buy our tickets to our home in Guadalupe, Mexico. "The Folks" gave us a room in their home there to set up housekeeping. It was here, January 24, that we were blessed by the birth of our second son, George Emerson. We had really begun our life's career.

Now back at the ranch in Mexico. May 21, 1901, Mary Janes daughter Melvina Agnes died of measles.

At this time David was chosen and sustained as first counselor to Bishop W.D. Johnson. They worked to raise a crop, and made many trips for wood for fuel.

Five children died in 9 months. Two more children died of Typhoid two months later. While Achsah was recovering with Typhoid Julia had given birth to a new son: Derby Elmer, David's 25th child.

David writes of Mexico: In the two years, seven of my children have fallen by the hand of death, and two in the past year. Irving's death on March 18, the day little Wayne was eight years old, I suppose was the very capstone of my sorrows. But Mary Jane had to part with her youngest child, her only son, the bright, beautiful Willard, on the 19th of April.

David's reaction to his two years in Mexico is best expressed in his own words: "The change in me and in my family is almost too terrible to think of. I shrink from writing it so will confine my words mostly to the one year past which has left its ghastly wounds that can never heal, neither can my broken, wasted, utterly changed and destroyed life be, until God reaches out the hand of mercy to show me why I have been so crushed by the heavy hand of judgment."

"I cannot understand it. However, I know the God I have tried to serve is He who controls the elements. He has taken them, for by His power, life is given and taken. Blessed be His name. He gave and has taken. Blessed be His name for the gifts though so cruelly taken away."

The entire family grieved greatly with the loss of their dear children. However, life goes on and the family had to work to keep going.
President Ivins gave great comfort to the family at that time. President Ivins offered grazing lands located just east of Guadalupe which he could pay for on terms. During the time of three years in Mexico, eight children had died. Indeed a very difficult and sorrowful time.

Guadalupe was supplied with water for irrigation purposes by a system of canals. David's turn for water came which he took, but to his surprise, he was summoned to Casas Grandes to appear in court for"unlawfully" taking of water. It was a mistake of the water master, but David received a warning that $25.00 would be fined to from him. Many water quarrels with the Mexicans caused trouble with the colonists.

While Rettie continued to teach school, David decided to increase his income by hauling produce to the San Pedro Mines. (30 miles no. of Dublan). He made regular trips with fruits and vegetables to sell to the Mexicans. Rettie taught the Allreds, the Mortensens, the Johnsons at her school, among her own sisters.

In December David came close to losing his life when he made his trip for lumber. A small hurricane and gust of wind aided when his rear wheels locked, causing a plank to real directly for his head, missing him by hairs. The family was grateful for his safe return.

The family canned and dried great volumes of fruit. They had a productive stock of dairy cattle for milk and butter. The chickens supplied them with eggs and meat. Their ranch was prospering and times were looking up. In 1904, Arthur Benjamin Clark with four wives and seventeen sons, moved to Guadalupe. A step son was Calvin Delos McOmber, son of Marinda Elizabeth Griffith (formerly divorced from Orange McOmber). Dr. Clark was a dentist who later pulled the balance of David's teeth and made him a pair of false ones (Feb. 13). Rettie took sick and had to go to Juarez for recovery.

David worked by chopping ties near Hurst saw mill. He started his own business as "supplying" food produce to San Pedro mine. He became a grocery man for the miners, a job he continued until 1908. With his wagon and his route, it took about a week, and he traveled homeward on Friday. Saturday morning he arrived in Dublan, paid his debts, bought household necessities for the home and arrived in Guadalupe in late afternoon and cleaned up for Sunday. Sunday morning at nine o'clock every person in the family was supposed to have his chores completed, bathed and cleaned up for Sunday School.

When the family gathered, they discussed problems and made plans. All took part in singing the sacred songs, then all knelt in a circle for prayer. When David was praying it seemed he was talking face to face with his Maker, so natural and spontaneous was his speech. After these services all who were well, attended Sunday School and sacrament meeting. David knew how to keep the sabbath and he permitted all in his household to do likewise. Only when there was an "ox in the mire" was work done in the Stout home.
In early September there were unusually heavy rains throughout the colonies and in the mountains. There was great flooding and the people of Dublan made a frantic effort to save their town by building a large levy to keep the waters out.

November 6, President A.W. Ivins, and counselors came to Guadalupe to organize their branch.

In November Rettie came down with Small Pox. She was rushed to a hospital in El Paso, where she was treated for the disease. A special fast was held in her behalf. Another fast was held December 18th. Finally Julia received a letter telling of Rettie's recovery. The family all rejoiced. On the day the message arrived, Edmund and Daisie Richardson came to Guadalupe to spend Christmas. Edmund inoculated the entire family against Smallpox.

1905, the family received a second cheerful message, Rettie would be able to return home in January. Though badly marked up by Pox, Rettie returned to Guadalupe January 26.

Aunt Viola Stout was a little girl in primary at this time and she remembers how everyone prayed for Aunt Rettie. "Aunt Rettie never fully recovered from this illness. She was quite sickly."

One can only imagine the trial this must have been to Great Grandmother Rettie. I would like to imagine what it was like:

Perhaps she would say: My heart cries for my family, my loved ones. God grant thy merciful hand upon my aching body and heal the scared and ugly marks of Small Pox. Will my family love me with such ugly scars left on my body? I am here in this home of strangers, wanting to see their dear faces and tears burn in my eyes as I weep for rescue from death's door. Will I see my dear children again and feel their loving embrace? Their prayers and love have given me courage and hope for a recovery. This disease has eaten at my skin and left my beauty only to return in the resurrection. When will I return? God bless my children in my absence. Aunt Viola said she wasn't badly scared. Her year away from home was hard on her but she had three other mothers helping her with the family.

The Sunday School in Guadalupe was reorganized on Lincoln's birthday. Calvin D. McOmber was made superintendent, Frederic J. Clark and David F. Stout were his counselors. Calvin was also ordained an Elder on that same day. Later Achsah was chosen (May 14) to be the secretary of the organization.

On March 29th, David's 26th child was born: Abraham Lincoln Stout from Sarah. Patriarch Charles Pulsipher came to Guadalupe May 21 to give the children blessings. Sunday school took turns from the Stout home to the Allred home, to the Clark home. A church house needed to be built so a meeting was called. A building committee was selected: Calvin D. McOmber, Frank E. Wall and Mr. Kock.

The Stout home had a special visitor: Grandma Henrietta Cox and her daughter: Artemesia Cox Black.

David lost three months of a severe attack of rheumatism. The disease took complete possession of his limbs, "but, through the mercies and power of God and through the faith and administration of Elders James Mortensen, B.H. Allred, George M. Haws, and George A. Black, I was soon restored to health. No man or no human power could have raised me so suddenly from that loathsome disease."

In 1907 a great snow storm struck and almost completely destroyed the fruit trees which affected their season of produce to one-half. David's family attended the Juarez Academy that year. Emerald, Wendell, Achsah, Valeria, Juanita and Artie were all sent to Juarez that year.

1908 The meeting house was ready to hold services by May. Unfortunately, one of the first services was a funeral. George A. Black, a great worker on the churches construction was killed by Mexicans wanting water. This was a great sorrow to the people . He had served as Branch President. Replacing him as Byron Allred, who served until 1912. ( Aunt Viola's Father. After the exodus he died of an heart attack trying to get the branch safe into homes in El Paso after the Exodus from Mexico) See Oral interview with Aunt Viola.

In 1908, Guadalupe had its first school. Geneva Cox, a graduate from Juarez Academy was the teacher. Emerald returned to run the farm in Guadalupe while the older children stayed at the Academy.

In 1909 David lost his business at San Pedro Mines. From March to June, he was offered a job with Union Mercantile Store at Dublan. He gathered eggs, butter for his store, worked on commission for Mr. Henry Bowman. Mr. Bowman decided to send David to California to learn to the art of packing and shipping fruit. David was given new clothes and a five month excursion ticket to San Francisco. At this time Achsah married Calvin. It was the first and last real wedding party the family ever enjoyed in Mexico. Calvin and Achsah made their first home at the old A.B. Clark residence during their first three months of marriage. Their third son Arthur is named after Calvin's step father, Arthur Benjamin Clark.

In California, David received an education from Henrick Victors, on tree culture, packing and shipping. He looked up the elders and joined in on street meetings and taught investigators. He visited the Agriculture Dept. at University of California in Berkeley. In Sacramento, (July 23) Earl's fruit co. and then on to Gridley, Auburn, New Castle, and Loomis.

Sept 29th David had his first ride in an automobile. On sept. 27th David was in El Paso and met Achsah and Daisie en route to SLC for the temple marriages and endowments.

By October l David reported to Mr. Bowman about his business trip and became the one in charge of packing and shipping for Mr. Bowman. He made a grader to size apples. In five weeks the rail road cars were ready for shipment to Mexico City. David reports that 1909 was a successful year. He had completed 19 books and earned 60 dollars more than expected. Feb. 6th Sarah had a new baby: Eunice, his last child, numbering 28 children.

A story relating to David by his grandson David McOmber (Achsah's son): " It was common for Grandfather to take his books along with him in his wagon. He would lay down in his wagon and let the horses take the journey home while he read. One day, some Mexicans saw a wagon with horses and no driver, so they pursued it. As the mexicans approached the wagon they were surprised to see David, who quite surprisingly, asked them what they wanted. It startled the Mexicans, so they took off".

War Clouds over the Colonies

On Dec. 17th, Apostle Ivins warned of political unrest and to remain neutral. Also, a warning to anyone who takes plural marriage since April 6, 1904 would be under condemnation. This was David's most prosperous year. Christmas was celebrated with dancing and singing. A ball game between married and single men were played.

Their joys were stilled when Francisco Madero began his crusade (three miles from Guadalupe to over throw the government. He promised to "take the land away from the rich and divide it among the land hungry peasants." May 10, 1911, In route to Guadalupe from the camps, David was surrounded by a band of armed Soldiers and ordered to stop. David remembered Brigham Young's admonition "It is better to feed the Indians than fight them". He handed them bread and cheese. After finding out that he had no gun, he was permitted to drive on.

1911 Daisie added a new grandson : Justin Earl, her second child.
Jan. 22, a terrible tragedy occurred: Elizabeth Mortensen, just l/4 mile away from the Stouts home, was raped, robbed and murdered. George Kock tried to rescue her but was also killed. Seven colonists were killed by the Mexicans. President Ivins spoke at the funeral. Later a public meeting was held and all decided to arm and prepare for defence. Sarah and David visited Juarez to see their first son graduate from High School: Wendell. He desired a college education and had been a good student. David bought Edward Eyring's home for $2000.00 so his children could attend the academy, which serviced them for three winners. David said"it gives me great joy" to see his children gain an education.

The Guadalupe Sunday School had Calvin D. McOmber as Superintendent, Willard Lake and Shirley Black as counselors. and Henry Allred as Secretary. David Stout was teacher of the Parent Class.

In David's journal he wrote: " Old Diary, that if my children or descendants care no more for me than they do now you will never be read and these blooming pages of risking life and all the tales of exposure contained will be like May flowers, born to blush unseen and waste their sweetness on the desert air." We can thank Wayne Stout, his son, for sharing his writings with us.

The teaching position at Guadalupe was a difficult one. No teacher lasted longer than one year. July 30 the trustees met and chose Calvin D. McOmber to teach the school the following winter. The family enjoyed a fairly prosperous year in spite of floods and weather challenges. That year Christmas was a joyous time and the family had parties and went to community gatherings. All the children, including Dewey the younger, attended the school taught by Calvin D. McOmber. Those attending the Juarez Academy were Emerald, Valeria, Juanita, Artie, Madona and Wayne.
In 1912 the family continued their studies and David continued his deliveries and on January 24th the family welcomed George Emerson McOmber, David's 5th grandchild.

By March 23rd, President Ivins gave the people sound advice relative to the revolution. By May David attended the graduation of Emerald, Valeria and Juanita. The graduating class presented Shakespeare's "Winter's Tale", Emerald, Valeria and Juanita all taking active parts in the play. Juanita read a humorous selection describing each graduate's future role in life. Emerald played a violin solo and Valeria played a piano solo. David was highly commended by Principal Guy C. Wilson for his determination to educate his children.

Law and order was increasingly difficult with the Mexican rebels. The rebels were plundering and looting the stores without restraint. David's old customers could no longer buy from him. Though David did considerable traveling between Pearson, Juarez, and Guadalupe, he never had anyone rob him. Little, did they realize that the July 24th celebration would be their last one in the colonies.

The Polygamy Question and the Mexican Government

After David decided to practice the doctrine of polygamy, he was sought after by US Marshals to be put into prison due to a federal law called : The Edmund Tucker Law.

If one should honestly study the statutes of this law, it truly was the most unjust, unconstitutional, tyrannical law ever imposed to US citizens in the history of America. Let us take a look at its contents to see why the Stout family felt they had to leave America in order to find freedom to live a religious principle.

One must ask the question: Why Polygamy? Simply, it was a revelation from God. Joseph Smith had studied about the prophets of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and asked the Lord about their practice of Polygamy. The Doctrine and Covenants 132:l-4, 28-40 and also section 110:13-16 refers to it. " To raise up a righteous generation unto me "was the intention to give God's spirits the privilege of a righteous environment, with honorable homes and loving parents.

Joseph Smith said: "It mattereth not whether the principle is popular or unpopular, I will always maintain a true principle even if I stand alone in it". (TPJS p. 332) President Lorenzo Snow relates:" He (Joseph Smith) knew the voice of God--he knew the commandment of the Almighty to him was to go forward--to set the example, and establish Celestial plural marriage. He knew that he had not only his own prejudices and pre-possessions to combat and to overcome, but those of the whole Christian world...but God...had given the commandment."

Abraham of the Old Testament was given the commandment. How was it possible that Abraham was promised his seed would be as numerous as the dust of the earth? "So that if a man can number the dust of the earth, then shall thy seed also be numbered." Gen 13:16. Genesis 16 talks of Hagar, his second wife.

Probably no other revelation caused so much persecution, so much ridicule and contempt as did the doctrine of Plural Marriage. Our early pioneer forefathers were harassed and tormented by the ugly accusations and social mockery which they received. Yet, as Abraham of old, they knew it was the Lord's will and they strove to keep a higher law. We owe them our lives and are grateful for their obedience to the Lords will.

THE EDMUND TUCKER ACT-- This is the law that drove many members to Mexico. One can read this unconstitutional mockery, enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in congress. Volume 22 pg 30 Bigamy, Polygamy or Unlawful cohabitation--the husband or wife may testify.

Section 3: Adultery punished by imprisonment in penitentiary for three years., Incest, three years in prison. Fornication, six months imprisoned.

All sections 5-9 were anti-polygamy.

8. Marshals of said territory of Utah, and deputies shall possess and may exercise all the powers in executing the laws of the U.S. or of territories, exercised by sheriffs, constables, and their deputies.

9.Full certification and witnesses of all marriages by the marshals. Punishment of $l,000 or imprisonment.

10. That commissioners appointed by the Supreme Court and district courts of Territory of Utah shall "possess and may exercise all the powers and jurisdictions...by the justice of the peace...appointed by circuit courts of U.S.

13. Proceedings to forfeit property of corporations in Utah to be bought.

15. The Perpetual Emigration Fund Company dissolved. Page 637 states that the production of books, records papers be disbanded.

17. (This is really the real axe):That the corporation of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints be and are "hereby disapproved and annulled, is hereby "dissolved", That it shall be the duty of the Attorney General of the United States to cause such proceedings to be taken.....

Section 20: That it shall not be lawful for any female to vote at any elections in the Territory of Utah

21: Legislative laws for voting annulled

22: Present election districts abolished and only U.S. citizens to vote.

23-24 No public office, no voting privileges, "No person shall be entitled to vote in any election in said territory or be capable for jury service, or hold any office.

25: Government take over of schools, polygamists school districts, all school teachers and all statistics reported to congress, and territorial school laws suspended.

26: Trustees for real property of religious Corp

27: Militia law of Utah annulled.

These are shocking to a people who love their country and who believe in a Nation inspired by God and who love their freedom to worship.
One can only feel the great anxiety in the hearts of the Stout family who already left their homes in Nauvoo and found the "promised valley" for religious freedom. Would they follow the law of God or man? If it meant leaving their beloved Utah homes, to move to Mexico for refuge, then that is what it must be.

Sister Nelle Hatch gives her account of the colonies, which is briefly summarized as follows.

In 1885- A place of refuge to the harassed members of the church was answered with the colonization of Old Mexico.

A Mormon migration which resulted in eight colonies were established in Mexico. President Thatcher and MacDonald were cheerful that the "place prepared" was selected. This Mission was given by President Taylor when the passing of the Edmund Tucker Law began.

Their homes nourished culture, cemented home ties of love and understanding. Most importantly was the fact that the family life for which they had gone into voluntary exile was made possible.

Children fathered by one man, but nurtured by two or more woman in separate homes were kept in a family unit. The mothers in the respective homes worked together like sisters endeared themselves to all the children. One was mother and the other "Auntie". In the case of grandma Achsah "the folks" were one mom and three aunts and their father David. Achsah said: "I had four mothers. One was my teacher, one was my nurse and each one took turns "mothering" our needs. We never were lonely and always had someone looking after us children. We were the happiest children alive." They exemplified a family united.

Children were regarded as "the heritage of the Lord", Gods greatest gift and creation. They were the pride of the father who stood at the head of his large family in true patriarchal style. Children working and playing together provided every social need within the family group. There were many hours of friendship and fun among members of the same age within the family.

Many times grandma Achsah commented on the fun dances and parties she attended with her brothers. Nowhere was the moon so full, the stars so close, and the night so enchanting as in Mexico. This was a very peaceful area for settlement.

The light of learning, love of learning was embedded in the very foundation of their colonization. Teacher accepted the doctrine:"the glory of God is intelligence". Annie Romney was placed in charge of teaching an excellent program."Be good, do good, and you will be happy". Dr. Karl G. Maeser incorporated Juarez into the system. Elder Teasdale was president, Professor Wilson was principal of Juarez Stake Academy, Sept 11, 1897. Dec. 29, 1913 groundbreaking of the building, then finish and opened by Jan. 8, 1904 for instruction.

There were four equipped buildings and 18 faculty members. The carpentry shop, the domestic art dept. with four new sewing machines, domestic science dept, each occupied rooms in the Ivins home. The library, the orchestra and band where members wore green uniforms with white trim were ready for fine instruction. There was a wide choice of vocational and professional subjects: Education, agriculture, business, art, drama, carpentry, domestic art and science, theology and missionary training were offered. Guy Wilson had great personality and a desire to teach morals and scholarship.

Mormon Exodus from Mexico

Let us back up and take a look at the Mexican government and the conditions that prevailed at the time when the Stout family moved to the Colonies. Thomas C Romney's account of the Colonies gives us a picture of what the families were dealing with at the time of the Exodus and revolution. Dr. Romney was a teacher at Juarez Academy. Here is a brief summary:

President Diaz, ruler of Mexico when the Mormons entered, was a political figure very much like the Czar of Russia: total domination. He was a harsh dictator. There was no freedom of press and the death penalty was the penalty for any opposition toward him. The living conditions of the people were appalling and poverty was common except for a few who reigned as feudal Lords, controlling the lives of millions. Their homes were usually of adobe with one or two room. Others lived in dugouts. Little furnishings were the norm and beds were only mats. The roofs and floors were made of mud. Pigs, chickens and dogs slept with the family. The food was coarse, mostly tortillas and beans. Due to the unsanitary conditions and lack of nourishing food, outburst of contagious diseases infested the land such as Small Pox, Malaria and Typhoid. The common wage of fathers as farmers was a mere 35 centavos per day for feed, shelter and cloth their usually large families. Many were given a mere pittance of a wage. Masses worked similar to the system used by the Pharaohs of Egypt--as peons. Economic bondage to the unjust rulers over them was harsh.

In the years of 1881, April 6th, fifty one years after the restoration, mormon elders were called to Mexico on missions, under President Moses Thatcher. The mission began at a conference at Mt. Popocatapetal. There were 65 conversions. Later, on May 1885, Elder Anthony Ivins and Milson R. Pratt were called to serve there and were asked by Heber J. Grant to look for land suitable for colonizing. After a successful mission of another 57 new members, the church launched a program to buy lands there due to the hostility and opposition to polygamy in the United States. Was there a "place of refuge" from the oppression of the U. S. government?

Arrangements were made and President Diaz welcomed the colonists and said his government was "anxious" to have them help develop his country. Suitable locations in Sonora and Chihuahua were obtained and the Mormons were welcomed by the Mexican government. Colonists streamed to Juarez. The first families were: Sevey, Williams, Turley, Nelson, Elmers, Moffats, Romney, Nielson, Skouson, Judd, and Taylor. Miles Romney built the first dugout and it was his wife who gave birth to the first child born that year.

The colonists rejoiced with their new land away from oppression. It was a beautiful land by the picturesque Piedras Verdes River. The first desire was a community building to serve the needs of the saints. They erected a crude and rustic building and thanked God for it.

"It was under the shade of that old dirt roof that some received their first lessons in the fundamentals of arithmetic, reading, and spelling. There came into the lives of the pupils an inspiration to push on to higher levels of intellectual and moral living. As I recall those boyhood days spent in the Stockade building in happy communion and fellowship with the group of barefoot boys and girls and under the inspiration of a sympathetic and competent teacher, I am forcibly reminded that buildings nor equipment make a school".

In 1890, a cooperative mercantile establishment was installed with Henry Eyring as manager and Miles Romney as president. In 1892 a cannery was built. Over 5000 cans of tomatoes and fruit were shipped to Chihuahua and Mexico. Fruit grew in abundance at Colonia Juarez.

December 3, 1893 the Deseret News reported $ 6,000 worth of cheese had been produced for export. It said that the barns were full and the stacks are plentiful. "No profanity exists here within our gates, nor saloons for drinking, nor sabbath breaking. Socially, our young are a credit to their parents and an honor to the church".

Such was the conditions that David so earnestly wanted for the Family.
He had been told it was a heaven for the practicing polygamists and he would not be harassed by the Marshals in Mexico. The Stout family all were sent to Juarez academy. The Stout family sacrificed much that their children would be well educated. This attitude still prevails today.

Colonia Dublan, the largest of the Mormon Colonies, had its beginnings in 1888. It is 170 miles from El Paso and 150 miles from Deming, New Mexico. It took eight tedious and difficult travel to make the trip for supplies from US to the colonies. The task of supplying goods was a difficult one. When the railroad came, it proved to be a great value for goods. Corn meal was plentiful and flour was scarce, so much cornbread was eaten.

The relationship between the native mexicans and the colonists was a congenial and friendly one. Besides a few incidences of theft, their interactions were positive. After living here 10 years one of the Mexican leaders spoke at a fair and said:" We acknowledge your superiority and we appreciate the example of thrift, prosperity, and progress you have set for us and we hope to improve by it. We open our arms to you and welcome you as brothers."

It was the revolution initiated by Francisco I. Madero against the Diaz regime that caused great disturbances among the colonists. Their lives were in danger and fear came over all. Demands were becoming outrageous. Safety was in question. Lootings of the stores were made and tensions were high. A dear friend of the Stouts, Brother Black, was murdered over the water rights. " I tell you if conditions continue long as they are, there will be a reign of terror here such as you can hardly imagine." There was no respect for law and order among the rebels.

There was a meeting and it was decided that the women and children were to be sent out first to El Paso. On July 1912 a newspaper reported"the Mormon settlers in Mexico number about 4,000 people.....well to do....possessing large tracts of land. Residences have been built, irrigation projects and canal systems, property value is in the millions of dollars."

The rebels requested that all colonists hand over their fire arms.
July 28th was the date set for our fire arms to be delivered to the rebels. Brother Romney says,"I recall vividly the faces of scores of men as they made their way toward the public park with guns on their shoulders or in their hands to turn them over to men whom they felt could not be trusted, but without just provocation would use these fire arms against their lawful owners."

While the guns were being collected, the rebels were looting the homes of the colonists and stores. (However, none of the community arms imported from the US fell into the hands of the rebels). The colonists were deserting their homes and fleeing for safety. It was a big days travel by team to entrain for El Paso. Since railroad cars were not plentiful, those poor exiles were crowded together almost to the point of suffocation, and were not provided with any water to drink and left in total darkness when night came.

"On this memorable day a sad procession of about 35 wagons moved away from Garcia, including the women and children of the settlement and a few men to drive the teams. We left everything behind but a few trunks and rolls of bedding".

Elder Ivins reported on Aug. 15 that all the colonies have been looted. Heavy rains made conditions at refugee camps distressing. Friends in the north are assisting with funds which were very gratefully received.

The men stayed in hopes conditions would improve so they could return. But that was not the case. President Romney wrote to the other men to meet at a place called "the stairs" an impassible place in the mountains, where they would decide their exit.

Their exodus was a close encounter, if not scary. The rebels, finding that the men had gone, went in hot pursuit after them. When they came within range, opened fire upon the fleeing men, assuming that they were unarmed. One of the bullets struck a young boy, William Smith. At this junction, the captain of the colonist band, Bishop Thurber, ordered ten men to fall back and open fire on their enemy with their long range guns. The order was obeyed and the rebels were halted in their pursuit.

On Aug. 7, the march toward the boarder began for these valiant fathers and brothers. Though hard was their journey, soon the men were with their families, many of whom were in El Paso. A happier meeting cannot be imagined. Tears of gratitude and sweet reunions were deeply felt.

The Mormon colonies brought forth some of the great minds of America: Nathan Whetter, Juarez Academy Phd. in Sociology; Edward Eyring Phd, Carl F. Eyring, Phd. Frank Harris, Hyrum Harris, Phd. Field of Economics, Sanford University. Dr. Eyring is world renowned Physicist and has had great contribution in the field of Chemistry and Physics. He has received awards from all over the world. These were the men that our grandparents rubbed shoulders with and were taught the great lessons of character, love of God and fellowman.

The Stout and McOmber Exodus

David describes the exodus as a very traumatic time for the family. The colonists were told that there would be no guarantee of protection to life or property and that all must surrender unconditionally all arms and ammunition. Dublan was surrounded by rebel forces. The leaders of the church decided that July 27th all guns and ammunition would be taken to the public square.

Achsah relates: Aunt Misha Black whose husband had been murdered in 1908 moved from her farm and occupied the north two rooms of father's home. From this time on we lived in constant fear. My husband secured two revolvers and a rifle. We kept one revolver in the East and where there was an outside entrance of the large room where we were living: the other one (revolver) was kept in the west end where we slept, and which end had also a door leading out..... How I dreaded the thought of ever using those guns! Practically every night I would spring up, grab the gun under my pillow prepared to shoot the imagined Mexican I thought had entered our living quarters.
Viola Allred Stout was eight years old when she left the colonies.

"It was in July of 1912 when all the Mormon colonists became involved. I recall being out in the tomato patch (my favorite spot while they were in season) sitting on the ground eating tomatoes with my salt shaker in hand as usual, when Lavon came running out to tell me that we were going to leave...yes move away...and that in 24 hours we would not be there anymore and I recall sitting there a long time and tried to visualize what it would be to not be there, to leave, and be somewhere else!! People were coming and going, back and forth, hurrying up the street, and returning.....

The transition of moving from the "big house" to Marinus' home had been quite a change but now Lavon had told me that TOMORROW we would leave here--MY HOME, my dolls, our dog, our garden, our EVERYTHING...and go somewhere else! It seemed hours before Mother missed me and called me to the house. I recall dreading to enter and hearing that what Lavon had told me was true. Little children are so helpless and hindersome at such times, wandering from room to room, watching the activities as adults hurry about. Father dug a hole behind Marinus' house and there many things were buried. I can see Father greasing guns and farm implements, wrapping them in burlap and after depositing them and covering over with sod, patting it down and then there was something else we could do, walk back and forth over the ground to eliminate evidence of the "burial" place.

For such a large family we left with mighty little, two or three trunks, as I recall, and about that many rolls of bedding. I remember Father negotiating with a Mexican family that lived somewhere north of Guadalupe. They were to move into the big house and for the privilege of it, they were to "keep an eye" on the other homes and thus discourage the two factions of Army, Federalists, and Revolutionists from taking turns ransacking the places. Even as Father reassured us repeatedly that we were being evacuated from Mexico only for the duration of the revolution, there still seemed to be a finality about it.

As we drove down the road toward Dublan, our dog whom we loved, as usual started to follow us. Father gently but of necessity, firmly ordered him back to the house and I recall the reaction we had to this and Father's assurance that the Mexican family would take good care of him.

At the station in Dublan there was much confusion. People from all the Mormon Colonies were assembling and with limited space everyone had to eliminate part of their baggage. Father being branch president was put in charge of our Guadalupe group and I saw little of him during what seemed hours as people were assigned seats and making last minute adjustments to luggage. I only remember, as the train pulled out, many a trunk and "grip" was left lying on the ground by the side of the tracks! At seemed to me that my mother cried most of the time. Auntie was our bulwark. She seemed to be more cheerful. Father and the older boys rode in the baggage cars. I do not know where Aunt Matilda rode, probably close by and busy with her own family, but Auntie seemed to take over Lavon and me, and our problems, as she often did so on many occasions. Her life was to mother someone.

I have no idea the hours spent on the train. It is only about 150 miles north to El Paso but I know it was dark when we arrived. Whether it was government or city officials which had made preparations for us, I do not know, but many cars were at the station top transport us to a temporary refuge. I do know that mother did not want to ride in one and as it was not many blocks distance, she took me by the hand and we walked. We needed only to follow the stream of cars to find the large dance hall where several hundred refugees bedded down on the floor for a sleepless night. The next day we were all moved to a lumber yard where each family was provided a "stall" to set up temporary quarters. I remember we ate. We sang there. It was the Mormon theme song: Come, Come Ye Saints. From that day to this day that song so impresses me."

David writes:

" We drove home with sad hearts to Guadalupe and found the folks considerably stirred up by the news." All were told to pack up and leave for Dublan and that message put Guadalupe into a panic. The men were hitching up teams and the women were packing trunks and family possessions. Four wagons were necessary to take the belongings of the McOmbers and the Stouts. With Wagons packed, they looked like pioneers ready to cross the plains. Henrietta Janes Cox was in this company. This was her third experience being an exile. As a teenager she was driven from Nauvoo, as a resident of St. George, and now the colonies of Old Mexico. Grandma Cox was indeed a woman of endurance and strength, with great faith that God would see them through.

During these tense times, David was in flight with Bishop Thurber. They crossed the river just in time to see the rebels after them. After the rebels realized that the colonists were armed, they retreated. The brethren had organized their forces of 235 men, 500 horses, and crossed into American soil Aug. 10th. They arrived in El Paso, finding their wives and children in the lumber yard with 2000 refugees, penniless, but well fed by the U. S. government.

Achsah relates as she left in the Exodus:"how my heart ached at leaving my dear father and brothers. There they were, standing below us as the train pulled away. Would I ever see them again? My husband's mother Marinda was bedfast, and had to be carried. Consequently Calvin was allowed to board the train with the women and children. At 7:00 PM we arrived in El Paso. As I stepped off the train, I saw our beautiful flag, the stars and stripes, fluttering up above me, in the gentle breeze. My heart leaped and my eyes filled with tears. Thank God for the flag and what it stood for: security, freedom and life! The 2,000 refugees were provided with food, shelter, bedding, etc. at a large lumber yard east of El Paso and on the outskirts of the city. Bathroom and kitchen facilities were soon installed by the city aids.

For two weeks we waited in the lumber camps for word from the church authorities as to whether to go back to our homes or not. The church leaders advised us to seek temporary residence in the United States until the government in Mexico was more stable. Some of my husband's relatives lived in Logan, Utah. My husband had spent his early life in this vicinity. We decided to make Logan, Utah, our home for the time being, and while here, hoping to find suitable employment. On August 12, 1912, my husband, two children, ages six months, and two years, my mothers sister, Artie, brother Dewey, my husband's invalid mother, and I bid farewell to the lumber camps in El Paso, Texas and boarded the train for Logan, Utah. We soon were housed in a fairly comfortable brick house with some furniture and food provided by one of the good bishops of Logan.

My husband found employment at the AC college, where he built hen houses and pig pens. My sister, Artie, entered the B.Y. college of Logan. My brother, Dewey began his schooling at the Lowell Jr. High School."

After staying two years in Logan, the church advised Achsah and Calvin to look to the United STates for settling. The young couple decided to homestead land for dry farming in Oakley, Idaho.

David waited to return to see how his home conditions were faring. In September he found his home in Diaz in ashes, burned. The government did not seem stable, so David packed up some of his left furniture and headed for New Mexico with Julia. The family scattered. Emerald went to BYU in Provo, Utah to be with Wendell. David and Sarah stayed in tents in Douglas Arizona. By May Valeria was married to Roswell De Mill. Edmund Richardson invited David to file a homestead at the "Corner". David wrote: " a bleak desert where there is no water and no timber but some scrubby brush" Here David began to build for the sixth time. The area was not one David wanted for Daisie "much depressed" to see her future home on the sands of desolation".

Nov. 20-23 David and others made a trip to Colonia Diaz after corn and writes "Half the homes in Diaz have been burned and many of the others have been stripped of their floors. Desolation reigns. I surely felt sorrow at heart to see the old home we lived in"

Dec. 18th Daisie added her 6th child to the family. It was in a tent there, not even a roof over her head. Sarah served as mid wife.

This time of resettling was a difficult time for David. He realized he could not go back. He had lost his home, his job, and his family was scattered. Not happy with the corner ranch, the family moved to Thatcher, Arizona to see if that would be their settling place. The difficult journey took nine days. April 25th David rented a city lot in Thatcher and moved the family there. His business there was rejected. Employment was not easy, especially at his age. " Desolation and heart burnings were feeble words to express my feelings". December 29th David comments, 1914:
It (1914) was filled with mistakes, foolish failures and damnable disappointments".

1915: Much time was spent working on ditches, preparing foundations, clearing land, hauling posts and rocks, plowing and planting. Feb. 27-28: The sermons of Apostle David O. McKay and President J. Golden Kimball were highly appreciated by the family. On March 7th, the family set aside a time to " unite our prayers and ask the Lord to prosper our efforts to get a home."

Juanita married John Ray, June 17, 1914 David and Edmund Richardson had a disagreement and David left. Juanita added a joyous 10 lb. boy Sept 3: John A Ray Jr. Madona arrived to attend school in Thatcher. 1917 David thanked the Lord that he could pay $ 32.00 in tithing. Madona graduated from Gila Academy and went to work at Klondyke Ranch where she met her future husband: William W. Schmidt.

1917 Daisie's 4th child Glenn Allen passed away. She was poorly provided for from Edmund.

1919, David and Rettie moved to Logan Utah, where they occupied the home belonging to Donald C. Black at 231 E. 3rd No. David did temple work the rest of his life. The dry farm in Arizona proved "fruitless and dry, so the family sold teams, wagons and furniture and left for Gilbert Ariz to see Juanita. Logan was their final home. While working at the Logan temple, David met an old acquaintance of 1875 from St. George: Nephi Heward, a cousin of Mary Jane, who attended school with Rettie. Nephi met Genevieve and married her in the Logan Temple April 15, 1920.

Times of Adjustment and Times of Change

As we see our families being refugees in El Paso, having a lumber yard as their shelter, we feel the heart beat of mothers, worrying about their children and husbands. I am sure many prayers and pleading to God were heard and many tears were shed in that lumber yard that night.

" He that is abased shall be exalted, and he that is exalted, shall be abased." ( find reference). How would I feel if everything I had worked for and sacrificed for, was - over night-- taken from me??? I am sure my testimony would be tried and my faith in God would be tested. As the refining fire of life, would I hold up to it's rude blast?

Children don't fully realize how hard it is on parents to see their homes taken, their lively hoods shaken (if not destroyed), and their material substance of this earth gone forever. If there is love and life, then all these things can be replaced and there is still a happy tomorrow.
the children had been given education, their souls had been fed truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ, and their God would help them through another crises. "All things shall pass away, but my word will not pass away, sayeth the Lord". Because they had their lives on a firm foundation, and because of their great faith, they went forward to find a new home in the great land of the United States.

God had given the "green light" to practice polygamy and now He gave the "red light" to no longer practice polygamy. The prophet Wilford Woodruff gave the church strong direction that God had fulfilled the purpose of it, and now it was the will of God to have it stopped. This was another adjustment for David and his wives. Though it meant they would live a semi-monogamy life style, they were bonded with great love and kept up their communication, even from a distance.

Rettie went to Idaho to be with Achsah, Aunt Jane went to Rockville to be with Valeria, or Portland Oregon with Madona, Aunt Julia went to Mesa, Arizona to be with Juanita. Sadie kept the "mother" of the home in Logan with David because she was the youngest and had the dependent children. They lived at 242 E. 4th No., Logan. During their times together in Old Mexico, the four wives of David were very united: Aunt Viola writes:

" There was never confusion and never a dull moment. It was a co-cop, if I've ever seen one. Henrietta was the teacher, Mary Jane the business manager (assigned the tasks etc.), Julia was gardener and Sarah (Sadie) the house keeper. (Everyone over 5 yr.old got an assignment.) A more humble, loving family never lived. I always said David F. was a "hen-pecked man" because those women were united, opinionated, unselfish and loving. I never heard him try to change their decisions. ( He really was a happy Man too.)"

David had his family and all were blessed to have their lives spared from the Mexican rebels.

The last chapter of David's life was working at what ever he could for his family, temple worker and gardener. Since many of his children had married and found their own livelihood, he spent more time in the Logan temple and did much good serving in his church callings. He never stopped being a "produce man", however. He made his own hand cart and went from store to store in Logan. His resourcefulness saw a need for everything, and nothing should be wasted. He took the surplus and put it to good use.

Though Daisie had been very happy in Old Mexico after her marriage, she was left in a very difficult situation after the exodus. In Mexico she relates: "My days were full of delight and my nights were sweet and perfect." She was the fourth wife, with a lawyer husband, Edmund Richardson, 26 years older than herself. The four corner ranch that Edmund provided for her was harsh, hot and Daisie and her family suffered greatly there. Due to her crippling arthritic condition, and the Manifesto, she moved near her family for the care she needed in Logan. Polygamy was against the law and banned by the church, so she raised, on her own and with very little sustenance, five children.

The Lord giveth, the Lord taketh away, blessed is the name of the Lord.
By Ruth McOmber Pratt, June, 1993
The life long toil of my hands
The work, pain, and living; enduring this land.

The ache, the wrenching of my heart
How can I again leave and make a new start?

My bones and body ache and moan with pain
Will God succor me, heal and sustain?

We've been driven and our homes raided
From Nauvoo, to Utah, to Mexico..hated.

Our children have cried for food and for water
We've plowed, we've planted, goods we did barter.

Like the plagues of Egypt, we've daily seen
The crickets, the drought, the floods; It was mean!

We've cried unto thee, oh God for taking our Babies
Their graves by the way, I feel my sorrow like Hades.

This hostile desert, this lonely desolation
The heat, the scorching and lonely isolation.

The thorns of the cactus, the heat of the sun
The toil and the hardships, the work never done.

Forgive the weeping, the tears--we've complained
We implore thy healing, our heads we've ordained.

Driven one more painful time!
Where will we settle? We haven't a dime.

Lost is my business, my job, and my home
Wandering in this cruel desert to roam.

Tents for our shelter and leaks over head
The storms, the tempest, and illness I dread

I'll do anything Lord, to make a small living
Dig ditches, a watchman in Idaho? I'm leaving...

Work, selling sewing machines, I'll try my hand (?)
My age is against me to conquer this land.

I'm too old to start a new vocation
I must find a home, a new location.

Is it "Four Corners, or Thatcher, our families apart
Where can I make a new living and home, a new start?

I have sweat on my brow, have toiled and plowed
God, thanks for your mercies and goodness endowed

I know where one door closes, another opens
Just find me a job, an income I'm hopin'

The Blacks home was opened to me and my Sadie.
God's mercy sent me to Logan's great city.

We'll retire here, our bones we will rest
But finish in God's temple, and do our very best.

David's Last Testimony of the Restored Gospel

I am glad to greet once more your interesting and diversified views on current topics and family interest.

Sarah thinks I am to blame if any of my children doubt the divinity of Mormonism because I have been neglectful in my duty of bearing my testimony to them. It may be true. When I received a testimony of the gospel, I was so overwhelmed with the flood of light that descended upon me I thought I'd tell it to everybody and that no one could doubt it. But I read from a sermon delivered by President John Taylor about that time that personal testimonies given to people who sought them diligently were for their own personal guidance, not for everyone.

It was brought to my mind how in the great debate, President Taylor had in "France, they sought to entrap him and brow-beat him to make him tell the details of his vision, but he positively refused to give it. I was also reminded that the prophet Alma when preaching to the wicked city of Ammonihah had said something like this: "It is given unto many to know the mysteries of God, nevertheless they are laid unto a strict admonition or constraint not to import only certain portions of his word."

As I said it was overwhelming but I cannot give you but a small portion of it. Suffice it to say the past and the future were laid before me in equal plainness and vivid display. I was shown that every prayer I had ever uttered had been heard and the evil deeds I had been guilty of were all brought back to my mind till my blood felt cold in my veins. The mercies of God were so vividly depicted before my spiritual vision in their granting me a remission of my many sins that I wept like a child and have done so many times since.

Now I might tell you a few things I saw for the Holy Ghost tarried with me nearly two months; not constantly but every day during that time when I sought it in earnest prayer, until it seemed as though it would consume my flesh and dry up my blood and I could see that a little more of that same power and spirit could change mortality into immortality in the twinkling of an eye. I was shown if I would obey the fullness of the new and everlasting covenant I and my children and descendants would be heirs of the blessings promised to our progenitors, Allen Joseph Stout and Alfred Fisk.

Read the words of Joseph the Prophet to Brigham and Joseph Young. He said something like this: "I have seen the estate, the glory given those who died in Zion's Camp ( of whom Alfred Fisk was one), and the Lord knows I will be satisfied if I attain to the same blessing as they." Five or six of the Fisk family died of the exposure and suffering in the expulsion from Missouri in the winter of 1838-39.

Read Doctrine and Covenants Section 38:18-20, 64:29-32. You will see some of the Lord's promises to our parents. But as the Lord says: "All these things must come in their time."

This is said in all SOLEMNITY of my living testimony and will be my dying testimony. The children of mine who curtails their posterity will diminish their glory and inheritance.

Signed, David Fisk Stout

Before David died, he suffered from "sinking spells." Daisie writes:

Two years before he died he would have sinking spells. He never fainted or lost consciousness, but he would go deathly pale and very weak. He would usually lie down and sleep awhile or rest and then be as usual. He began to have a pain in his side, I think, about February, 1932. ........He had one of these sinking spells in the Temple when in the last room, I believe. A woman thought he was going to die right there. A brother Reuben Perkes, took him and Aunt Sadie, home in his car, and it proved to be the last trip to the Temple for him in this life.

When I went over to their place about noon, he called and said" Can you come over tonight and play Rook?" I answered, "Are you able to?" and he said: "Oh, yes", and I said "All right, I'll come."

He attended one more fast meeting (April, I'm sure) and bore his testimony, which was the last time for him in this life. "

David Fisk Stout passed away October 1, 1932. The funeral was held at the Logan Fourth Ward. Bishop S.B. Benson conducted the services and also spoke.

At the last tribute to David, his funeral, Professor C.E. McClellan spoke. "I have never known any man who came more nearly accepting in full in belief and in practice the commission given by Christ at the close of that greatest of all sermons, when he said, "Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and It's righteousness, and all these things shall be added." This was the guiding star in the life of David F. Stout. I know of no man who has more consistently, day in and day out, year in and year out, through all his life, lived up to the principles of the Gospel as determined by the Ten Commandments, the Sermon on the Mount, and the Golden Rule. I do not know of a single principle of the Gospel that Brother Stout did not accept in full in faith and belief, consistently attempting to carry out, and with a high degree of success."

Brother McClellan reviewed how the Stout family was an example of gaining knowledge and an education in the colonies, even though it meant great financial sacrifices. David wanted his children well educated. The glory of God is intelligence was part of his fiber. The Civil War in Mexico destroyed the Stouts possessions, but it could not take away their educations from Juarez Academy. Brother McClellan said he taught over 10 of David's children and felt he had raised one of the finest families and a credit to any community. He ended his talk by saying:"He never sought for wealth or honor or fame, but for the Kingdom of God, and I hope that we may seek to emulate the example of his life and may find in the memory of his life a constant inspiration for the things for which he stood."

President Joseph R. Shepherd spoke highly of David. "I wish that I could see him now in his spirit form. I am sure that I would see him a magnificent spirit. He would not be handicapped by the ailments of the flesh as he has been the past few years, but in the dignity and majesty of his spirit. I am sure that I would see him a magnificent spirit. I would see him marching on and associating with such characters as the Prophet Joseph and Brigham and all of the leaders of Israel that have passed on before, because brother Stout, in his lifetime, was true as steel to the Church. He was true to the Priesthood callings in the Church, and he showed it by his works."

President Shepherd said that David gave his children true riches, not so much of this earth, but of the next life. He valued the wealth of learning, he valued the wealth of good works, he valued the truthfulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and tried to live accordingly.

What more can a man leave his children? What greater inheritance is there than that? To me, his great grand daughter, there is no greater inheritance and I thank him for being the foundation of a great and wonderful family. We have built upon that foundation, we have been part of the tapestry that he and his wives began. We pray that we will weave yet another picture of dedication, devotion and integrity, that we may know and love him in the eternities. This is my prayer,

Ruth McOmber Pratt.

Appendix A:
Hinckley, Utah

Known as the cleanest town in Utah and claimed the purest drinking water obtained from artesian wells. In 1858 Hinckley was a wilderness where the wild Pahvant Indians roamed. In 1853 the Indians massacred an exploring party under Captain John Gunnison. However, in 1858 Brigham Young sent a party out under Jacob Croft to explore lands for future settlements. In 1859, thirty Fillmore farmers decided to colonize the region receiving 40 acres a piece to make his home. The land was cleared, irrigation canals were dug, and an irrigation dam was built.

It was first called Deseret. By 1862 their biggest challenge was the flooding problems, the Sevier River caused damage to the dams and was so "severe" that many settlers packed up and left town. By 1964 a new dam was built and prosperity was the result. The greatest challenges they had were Indian threats (so they built a fort) and the grasshopper invasions. Education was of utmost importance for the children so a school was built (costing $500) Millard county had a threat from Black Hawk himself who wanted war but realized the colonizers had guns, so they left.

The community was centered around the Mormon church and on Sundays, the school was used for church. This little community loved to celebrate the 4th of July and the 24th. Survival was utmost for the earlier settlers.

The Hinckley Family was highly revered and the town was re-named "Hinckley". In 1892 there were 528 new citizens. The US Census for 1900 gave the settlement 591. Political rallys were important to the new community. Election day and voting were highly esteemed. Page 41, 42, have pictures of Wayne Stout in the Band as a drummer and Juanita as a third grade teacher in 1912-1913.

Appendix B:
Why Johnston's Army?

One of the great concerns of Brigham Young during l857-l858 was the unannounced visit from federal troups sent by President Buchanan. Getting the valley settled was a hard enough job by itself, not to mention the Indian problems, the weather adjustments, the providing of housing and food for immigrants ect. ect. On Presidents Young's door step was 2500 troups sent to liberate "white slavery". So many untrue and ugly lies had been told about the "Mormon polygamists" that the government became outraged. We must remember that there was no communication of telephones, televisions, not even telegraph. Such a misunderstanding would not have happened had their been true reports and good communication. Without the help of God no other establishment could have survived the many obstacles and challenges as did our early pioneers. President Buchanan sent Cummings to replace Brigham Young, which President Young graceously acknowledged. President Young Surrendered his political title and formed a good relationship with Cummings.

However, the arrival of government troups was not a welcome wagon either. President Brigham Young put out a "PROCLAMATION BY THE GOVERNOR": "We are invaded by a hostile force who are evidently assailing us to accomplish our overthrow and destruction. Brigham Young so eloquently said:" For the last twenty five years we have trusted officials of the Government from Constables and Justices to Judges, Governors, and Presidents, only to be scorned, held in derision, insulted and betrayed. Our homes have been plundered and then burned, our fields laid waste, our principal men butchered while under the pledged faith of the government for their safety, and our families driven from their homes to find that shelter in the barren wilderness and that protection among hostile savages which were denied them in the boasted abodes of Christianity and civilization."

Brigham called on the Nauvoo Legion to impede the progress of the army using "scortch tactics", or in other words, burning of the supply wagons etc. Not one person was killed but it did cause a great deal of worry, tension, and ernest prayer on our part. By the time the army had come to Salt Lake City, the city was totally evacuated. All residents had moved south in temporary abodes. President Young would rather have had all homes burned to the ground than to have the enemy take hold of our city. As it was, Johnston's Army rode through a deserted settelment.

They went on to build Camp Floyd forty miles away in Fairfield. They stayed for three years until they were called to fight in the Civil War. It was an embarrassment of President Buchanon and the "misunderstanding" cost the government needless dollars and took Utah forty more years before they were accepted as a state.

One can only feel the worry of the Stout and Cox families after they had traveled across the plains, had sacrificed their homes, their loved ones, and their fortunes to come to the "promised valley of the Rockies", to find that they still had the threat of an army to deal with. God was their trust and all things worked for their good. When the army left, there were many supplies the army had left which the early settlers used and enjoyed./P

Bibliography

Carter, William. Ghost Towns of the West. Menlo Park, Calif.: Lane Magazine and Book Co., 1971.

Hatch, Nelle Spilsbury. Colonia Juarez. Salt Lake City, Utah: Deseret Book Company. Special Collections BYU Library.

Larson, Andrew Karl. I Was Called To Dixie. 1961, second printing, 1979. Orem City Library.

Romney, Thomas Cottam. Mormon Colonies in Mexico. Logan, Utah: Deseret Book Company, 1938. Special Collections, BYU Library.

Stout, Wayne. Our Pioneer Ancestors, Genealogical and Biographical Histories of the Cox-Stout Families. Salt Lake City, Utah, [no publisher], 1944.

------. Genealogy of the David Fisk Stout Family. Salt Lake City Utah [no publisher].

Stout, Viola. My Life---I've made it so far...and still striving! Salt Lake City, Utah, [no publisher], 1992.

ARTICLES

Bachman, Danel, and Esplin, Ronald K. "Plural Marriage." Encyclopedia of Mormonism, ed. Ludlow, Daniel H. New York: Macmillan, 1992.

Furniss, Norman F., and Poll, Richard D. "Utah Expedition." Encyclopedia of Mormonism, ed. Ludlow, Daniel H. New York: Macmillan, 1992.

Poll, Richard. D. "Thomas L. Kane and the Utah War." Utah Historical Journal. 1993, pp. 113-131.

UNPUBLISHED LIFE HISTORIES

McOmber, Ruth. The Life History of Achsah Stout. Salt Lake City, Utah: [unpublished], l964.

Richardson, Daisie Stout. A Centennial Memorial. Gardena, Calif: Dickson Feature Service (17700 Western #69, Gardena Calif. 90248), l984.

ORAL HISTORIES

Stout, Viola. Oral History tape. Interview by Ruth McOmber Pratt, Salt Lake City, Utah, June 1993. Video tape in author's possession.

McOmber, David. Oral History tape. Interview by Ruth McOmber Pratt, Salt Lake City, Utah, June l993. Tape with David McOmber.

McOmber, Winston. Oral History tape. Interview by Ruth McOmber Pratt, Salt Lake City, Utah, May 11, 1993. Tape and transcript in author's possession.

OTHER SOURCES

U.S. Statutes at Large, Volume 24, 49th Congress 1885-1887, pp 635-641, concerning The Edmund Tucker Law.

Atlas of Utah Westward Migration Maps, Mormon Trail, BYU Library.

Pictures and memory book by Achsah Stout, "Letters from Pa", etc. from Achsah's scrapbook in author's possession.

Sketch of our traverls from the time we left Kanesville until we arrived in the Valley of the Great Salt Lake which are the travels of the Second fifty I shall first give the heads of families the number of Souls, wagons, oxen, cows, loose cattle, and horses, that belonged to the fifty

8	3	24	1	3	1
7	2	14	1	1	1
7	1	6	0	0	0
4	1	6	0	2	0
11	3	20	2	0	0
3	1	2	2	0	0
4	1	8	1	8 (sic)	0
5	1	4	2	0	0

there was four more companies

after we left Kanesville, we camped at the holler near little pidgon, which is about eight miles from Kanesville and waited there for all the wagons to get to gather that intended to emigrate to the Valley, we stopped there until the 20th of June and then started for the ferry. Crossed the Missouri River on the 21st and 22nd inst and camped on the river bank near Winter Quarters, and on the 23rd we started and traveled as far as the six mile grove and (sic) then camped, and we have (sic) stayed there eight days and we have (sic) had rain most of the time. Sunday, June 29th, Brother Orson Hyde came into camp today and we organized a company of fifty and they roled out. Morris Felps was chosen Captn, Brother James W. Cummings, Captn of the whole crowd, made some very appropriate remarks with relation to guarding, herding, carreling, and watchfullness and prayer. And hethen called on Brother Hyde to make some remarks and Brother Hyde said he had nothing to say-only listen to the council that has been given and you will prosper and may God bless you and he then started on his way to the Valley. Brother Orson Pratt is expected in camp today with his wagons and teams. The day is fine and prospects of fair weather. Our camp is healthy at present and all in good spirits. Tuesday July 1st, the day broke very cool and cloudy and about 8 o'clock it commenced to rain or something like soft snow and continued about one hour at intervals. Captn Cordon ordered us to yoke up and we went at it and at 10 o' clock we rolled our traveled 12 miles (p. 9) and camped neat the regular camp ground at 4 o'clock the day was very favorable for traveling and some of the Brethren wore their overcoats while they were driving we all some along safe we found plenty of wood and water. Wednesday, July 2nd we yoked up and started on our journey traveled about 10 miles stopped and watered ou cattle and then went 5 miles farther and camped on the regular camp gournd about quarter of a mile from the main road the morning was cool when we started, but in the agter part of the day was very warm the water and wood is a full quarter of a mile from the camp ground as soon as each ten turned their cattle out into the herds we gor supper and then each ten assembled for prayers the guard was posted out an we allwent to bed.Thursday Morning, July 3rd the camp was arroused at day break by the blowing of hte horn the weather cooland a cloud raising and it is now beginning to rain a little and has the appearance of a heavy shower it is now 7 o' clock an we are still in camp waiting for some Brethren to come up that belongs to Cordons fifty the brethren come up with us at 10 o'clock and then we roled out and traveled 12 miles today and camped at 5 o'clock along side of the road wood scarce and water plenty about a quarter of a mile from camp. The weather cleared of about 11 o 'clock an it has been a very good road. Our camp is healthy and all seems (sic) to enjoy each other society. Friday, July 4th 5 o'clock in the morning very cool and raining cold enough for an over coat and a large fire. It is now 9 o'clock, still raining but Captn Cordon thought it best for us to role our and we yoked up and started on our journey and in about one hour it stopped raining. We had very muddy roads all day and we come 12 miles and camped at 4 o'clock and as soon as we got Car-(p.10) eeled it commenced to rain and the thunder and lightning was terrific. It has rained very hard and a great quantity of water fell. It is now 8 o'clock at night and still raining and their appears to be another cloud rising. We passed a grave today and on the head board was written in black letters "Hester Ann Hamblin, wife of Lansford Hamblin and daughter of Liman Stoddard, died 29th and entered on 30th of June." Our teams come along very well although the most of them are young unbroke cattle where we camped to night the wood and water is full quarter of a mile from the camp. Our camp is healthy and in good spirits.
Saturday, July the 5th we yoked up at 8 o'clock and roled out about 9 o 'clock and have come 17 miles and camed on the road about half past 4 o'clock water plenty, but no wood. In the fore part of the day the roads were muddy and slippery in the after part of the day their were good roads and the weather was very very favorable for traveling. We got a piece of paper from the road side that was left by Elder Orson Hyde advising us to keep a strong guard atound the carrell and to take the left hand road. We have traveled on the dividing ridge for 2 days between the Elk horn and Missouri Rivers and the calculation is to head the horn and loup fork rivers. The way we have come is a new road and we travel nearly in a North West direction and our road is as winding as the Missouri River. Sometimes we go 2 and 3 miles to get one. When we camped today, one of the the brethren's cows got loose with the yoke hanging to her and she ran to and fro like a mad bull, but we got her stopped before any damage was done. Sunday, July 6th 4 o'clock in the morning it is very foggy and the atmosphere is very close and it is very warm and has been all night. 6 o'clock- the fog seems to break a little and the Captn and brethren think it wisdom to roll out until we come to wood and water. If we had wood (p.11) here we would stop all day and let our cattle rest, but necessity compels us to do so, for some can not get anything to eat with out some fire for they have no bread baked up. Last evening when we camped some boiled a pot of mush eith weeds; some paked weeds while other pot. At 8 o'clock the cattle was drove up and we yoked up and rolled out and come 2 miles and then had to stop to let our cattle cool for they had befun to lol. And it was said by some that they never experienced a hotter day in August. We then rolled a gain and stopped at intervals all day, we drove until 6 o'clock and then camped. We found plenty of water but no wood could be seen as far as they eye could see. Captn Cordon rode a head today accompanied by Benjn Alen for the purpose of finding a good camp ground and just after we started we found a stade that was left by some of the compys that were a head of us and we could read miles on it, but what number of miles we could not make out for it was written with chalk and very poorly done or the rain must have washed out, their is a nice breeze a blowing tonight and we all feel quite refreshed the traveling today was very good and the roads was solid and our wagons run well on it. We have come 10 miles to day. One of the Brethren's cow's was sick and he sopped his team and gave her some salt and she got well immeadiately and one of his oxen fell sown with heat but he soon got over it and then rolled on to camp. At about 8 o'clock the horn wa blown and the Brethren assembled themselves together for the purpose of hearing some remarks that were made by Captn Cordon. He spoke with relation to our cattle especially the wild cattle. He advised the company to yoke all the wild cattle first and not have us detained every morning by yoking up the cattle that is well broke and easy to catch. He said he wantee every head to be yoked up and hitched on to the wagon's by 8 o'clock and another thing he said he did (pg 12) not want the Brethren and Sister's riding a head and running in before those that were in the main road, he told the company to all keep to gather and then if the Indians come uppon us we could carrell and be ready for them and he spoke with regard to watering the cattle in the middle of the day. He said he did not want to make a law on that subject, but he said he did not think they wanted feed or water and spoke at some great length on that subject. He said that cows can live withour water and he had heard some of the Brethren say that the fattest beef was fattend withour water. He spoke with relation to the Captns of tens making complaints to him because some of the company would not obey orders and he spoke a long time on that he said if any man can and will not stand up to his duty he shall suffer the consequence and no man can go with us that will not obey the council that was given by Captn Cummings and if we all will be united we shall role into the walley of the Great Salt Lake and we shall be blessed of the Lord. Let a man break down his wagon or loose his cattle and if we are not united where will we be, we will be left to suffer on the plains, but if we are united every man will seize a pound or a fifty pound's of loading and the individual can prosecute his jouney. He then called on the company to make what remarks they liked and several of the Brethren spoke on different subjects some concerning cattle some guarding some herding some prayer and several of them said that cattle could do without food or water in the middle of the day and if they did drink it would be an injury to them. Captn Cordon arose and brought up the story of the old king and his sons and the bundle of arrows. The king told them to take tahe bundle and break it, but they could not and he then gave them an arrow at a time and they were soon broken this was to show the company what strength there was in being united. He also spoke with relation to prayer and told the Brethren to attend to that little matter he (pg. 13) also spoke about the Brethren in Kanesville fasting and praying for our prosperity in crossing the plains and why should we, the subjects, of that prayer not attend to our prayers night and morning and he called on all of the Captns of tens to attend to it and see that it was attended too. Some of the company make a move to appoint a Captn of herd as well as Captn of guard. Brother William Holt, Captn of guard, was chosen for that purpose business being over. We all joined in general prayer and then reired to our wagons.
Monday, July 7th 4 o'clock in the morning there is a good wind, blowing and it has the appearance of rain. 6 o'clock- it is getting very warm and sultry and the cloud seems to be passing round. At half past 7 o'clock we rolled out and traveled 15 miles and camped neat the road aavout one mile from water and no wood. The day was very warm and the cattle were very much fatigued, and one of the oxen gave out and could go no farther, so we had to leave him until we got carrelled and then went back after him and drove him in to camp about 9 o'clock. At 10 o;clock there was a cloud come up and the wind blew a hurrican and rained tremendous. The cattle was very restless and the guard had hard work to keep the cattle in carrell.
Tuesday, July 8th 5 o'clock in the moring the air is cool and the sky is nearly clear. 9 o'clock: it is now getting warm and has the appearance of a hot day we rolled out at quarter past 9 and the day was a good one for traveling for there was a cloud hid the sun just after we started. We have come about 15 miles and camped no wood, but plenty of water to the right of the road our teams seems to stand traveling very well. Our camp is generaly healthy with the exception of a man whose name is ransom L. Mark. He appears to have the billour fever.
Wednesday, July 9th We hitched up and started at 8 o'clock and traveled 7 miles and camped at 11 o'clock (pg.14) for the purpose of wshing and cooking. The water here is a hald mile off and the wood near 2 miles, but we made out to get both the day passed of very well and our cattle has got a good rest.