Wednesday,
Mar. 9. I wrote to Brother Chr. Larsen.
Thursday,
Mar. 10. We still stayed in the same place.
Friday, Mar.
11. A child of Brother Pedersen died.
Saturday, Mar. 12. The wife of Brother C. Christensen died.
Sunday, Mar. 13. Brother Ipsen, Elder, died.
Monday, Mar. 14. At 1 a.m. Jens
Christian, son of Elder M. Chr. Jensen, died. The
body was buried. Shortly after noon two tugboats
came and towed us until in the evening, when anchor was dropped. It rained
heavily today.
Tuesday, Mar. 15. We again got under way, towed by the two tugboats, and
continued until late forenoon, when the tugboats left us. In the afternoon
we got under way, towed by one tugboat. The first house we saw was one in
which two black men lived. The house was built on poles, and outside of it
was a sort of house which could float on the water. We saw this on the
right hand side; on the left side was a lighthouse, and farther in were
several buildings. We sailed up the river, which was so wide that four
large ships could sail side by side. Trees could be seen on the banks of
the river.
The Mississippi
River Has Always Been a Major Route of Commerce
in the U.S.
Wednesday,
Mar. 16. We saw many small buildings; I heard the birds singing, and it
seemed just like spring. There
were ducks and geese, turkeys, pigs, horses, and cows. And I saw melons;
there were fields of beets, just as in Denmark; and the
trees looked just as they do in the spring. The banks of the river were
covered with driftwood; but everything looked full of life and very good.
There were white people who lived in these places; and I saw children who
were black. There were both men and women who were black. Many small,
beautiful buildings were built on poles, and we passed by a church. [p.
12] There were many animals, and in one place I saw some people driving in
a closed-in wagon. On the left side there was a factory, and elsewhere the
earth was cultivated. In one place they were plowing with four oxen hooked
together.
Thursday,
Mar. 17. This forenoon, about 10:30, we arrived
at New Orleans. (Andersen’s
case.) I was up in the bow with Elder John E. Forsgren
and several others, and bread was purchased for the brethren and sisters.
In the evening a child of Brother Christian Ipsen
Munk died. A meeting was held this morning, in
which Elder John E. Forsgren talked to the
brethren and sisters, and warned them against going up in the town, as
there were many ungodly people there and it was the worst place they could
go. After his counsel, he advised them to give Mr. Denziger
a gift. Elders Christiansen, H. J. Christensen, and N. Mikkelsen
spoke. The latter said he wished to return good for evil, and he wished to
give him a gift. It was unanimously agreed to give him twelve American
dollars. The meeting was closed with prayer by Elder Forsgren.
New Orleans
Port About the Time of the Forsgren Emigration
Company’s Arrival
Friday, Mar. 18. In the afternoon Brother Hans Larsen’s child died and was
buried in New Orleans, together
with Brother Munk’s child. A child was born to
Brother Dinnesen’s wife.
“Lafayette
Square, New Orleans, Louisiana”
Reproduced
from Ballou’s Pictorial Drawing-Room
Companion, ca. 1854
Saturday, Mar. 19. All of our belongings were brought on board a
steamship to which we were transferred, and at 4 o’clock in the afternoon we sailed for St. Louis. It was a
good ship. Brother W. Andersen and his wife left us at New Orleans. Almost
everyone was well; but Brothers C. Christensen and Anna Beckstrom
were not entirely well.
Riverboat Taking on Cargo and Provisions
Sunday, Mar. 20. No meetings were held. Provisions were dealt out to the
brethren and sisters. The ship stopped in the afternoon to take on a cargo
of sugar. We sailed again in the evening.
Monday, Mar. 21. We continued on our
way and had good weather.
Riverboat Travel Up the Mississippi
River
Tuesday, Mar. 22. The same.
Wednesday, Mar. 23. The
same, also, until Tuesday, Mar. 29.
Tuesday, Mar.
29. In the forenoon [possibly, afternoon] we arrived at St. Louis, with all
well except Brothers C. Christensen and N. Hansen. No accidents had
befallen us on this journey. The blessings of God were over us and all were
well.
Our City, (St. Louis, Missouri), Lithograph
by A. Janicke & Co., St. Louis
Wednesday, Mar. 30. We left the ship, and went
into the town (St. Louis) to a place
which had been prepared for us--this for the sake of our health, as it was not
wise to go up the Missouri River.
Another View of Saint Louis
Thursday, Mar.
31. Friday, April 1. Nothing of importance.
Saturday, Apr. 2. In the evening Brother C. Christensen’s son died. [p.
13]
Sunday, Apr. 3. Brother C. Christensen died in the afternoon; in the
forenoon Sister Dinnesen passed away. A meeting
was held this afternoon, which was opened with prayer by Elder Chr. Christiansen. Elder. J. E. Forsgren
spoke a few words, and then announced that there were three couples who
wished to enter into the bonds of marriage. It was unanimously sustained by
the congregation. The three couples were: Sören
Olesen and Berthe
Pedersen; Gerhardt Jensen and Else Marie Christensen; Frederick Jensen and Johanne Christensen. Elder Forsgren
next performed the ceremony. The meeting was closed with song and prayer by
Elder Forsgren.
[Gap in journal]
Sunday, Apr. 10. In the morning the brethren and sisters gathered in
meeting, which was opened with prayer by Elder H. J. Christensen. Elder M. Johnsen spoke and counseled with a spirit of love; he
was thankful for the privilege of talking. Elder J. E. Forsgren
spoke and explained several things to us. The blessings of the Lord were
over us. The meeting closed with song and prayer. In the afternoon another
meeting was held. Several brethren spoke and the Lord’s blessings were with
us. The Sacrament was administered. Elder Forsgren
wished to know if the brethren and sisters were willing to travel to
Keokuk. All were, and signified so by the raising of their hands. Brother Dinnesen’s child was blessed by Elder Christiansen. The
meeting closed with song and prayer.
Sunday,
Apr. 17. The brethren and sisters again met in meeting. Elder Forsgren offered the opening prayer. Elder Christiansen
read part of the revelation given December 16, 1833, and spoke of many things pertaining to the
Holy Ghost. His address was delivered with power, and a confirming of these
truths; he counseled us with a spirit of love. Elder Forsgren
spoke next, and touched on many things. He said that he did not place his
confidence in the money of the brethren and sisters, but in God alone. He
explained many things, especially regarding wives. There were several who
were afraid that they would not be able to retain their wives; and he said
that when there was a wife who did not wish to have him, he would let her
go; and he said that a man should be the head and not be led by a woman,
but, however, should be willing to receive good advice. Elder Forsgren continued to give us many things of
enlightenment, and explained also that if his brother should die, that it
would be his right and duty to be answerable for his call and to see that
his wives were sealed to him. Elder Forsgren said
that Miss Mathiesen wished to come back into the
Church, and he wanted to know if the brethren and sisters would hear her.
It was unanimously voted to let her speak. She then stood up and said that
she wished to become a member again and asked forgiveness [p. 14] for what
she had done against Erastus Snow. Elder Forsgren spoke again, and then it was unanimously voted
that Miss Mathiesen had not made a true
acknowledgment and could not be received into the Church without having the
fruits of repentance. The meeting closed with song, and prayer by Elder C.
Christiansen.
In the
afternoon another meeting has held. Elder C. Christiansen offered the opening
prayer. Elders Christiansen, J. Christensen and W. Andersen gave many
wonderful and inspirational thoughts, following which the Sacrament was
administered by Elder Domgaard and priest N. L.
Christensen. Hymns were sung and rich blessings were with us. The meeting
was closed with prayer by Elder C. Christiansen.
Tuesday, Apr. 19. A child was born to Brother P. Madsen’s wife.
Thursday, Apr. 21. 135 of the brethren and sisters left for Keokuk,
accompanied by Elders Forsgren and C.
Christiansen.
Sunday, Apr.
24. We held a meeting, which was opened with a song,
and prayer by Elder H. J. Christensen, who also spoke shortly and said he
wished to hear the brethren speak. Brother M. Johnsen
stood up and spoke a few words, then Elder K.
Christensen talked. He felt that he was not satisfied, and had only
occasionally had a happy day since we arrived at this house. Elder H. J.
Christensen talked briefly; he said that he knew that a man who was
righteous was not forced to have a wife who was unrighteous,
and the same for women. Elder W. Andersen also spoke briefly. The meeting
closed with song, and prayer by Elder H. J. Christensen. No meeting was
held in the afternoon. Brother Poul Chr. Larsen’s wife died this afternoon.
Death
Was Also a Companion of the Mormon Emigrants
Tuesday, Apr. 26. Brother Poul Chr. Larsen’s wife was buried. Elder Forsgren returned to us.
Friday, Apr. 29. Two still-born children were born to Elder C.
Christiansen’s wife. They were buried the same day.
Saturday, Apr. 30. Brother P. Madsen’s child passed away, and was buried.
In the afternoon the rest of us left for Keokuk.
Keokuk, Iowa
Sunday, May 1. We arrived at Keokuk in the evening and remained there
overnight.
Monday, May 2. We formed our camp, and in the evening Elder John E. Forsgren called the brethren together in a meeting. He
said that when we were camped in this fashion that we should have a
sergeant. Brother H. C. Hansen was unanimously appointed to be that man who
should have charge of the camp. Elder Forsgren
closed the meeting with prayer. [p.15]
Tuesday, May 3. This afternoon the brethren met again. Elder Forsgren spoke on Sergeants. It was proposed and
unanimously accepted to appoint him as sergeant of meetings. Elder Chr. Christiansen spoke extensively on the grace of
God; how he had been led to this place, and how through the grace of God we
had come over. the many waters to this place. He
was thankful to God for the work which had been accomplished, and was also
thankful for the work which had been done by Elder Forsgren.
It was proposed that all who were satisfied with that which Elder Forsgren had done, and for Brother Heth’s
diligence in obtaining wagons, and for all that we had received, to show it
by the uplifted hand. Everyone’s hand was raised. The meeting closed with
prayer by Elder Forsgren.
Thursday, May 5. A meeting was held in the afternoon at which several
Swedish visitors were present. Elder Chr.
Christiansen opened with prayer and then spoke. He was followed by O. Svendsen and H. J. Christensen. The meeting was closed
with prayer by Elder H. J. Christensen.
Sunday, May 8. The morning meeting was opened with prayer by Elder Forsgren, who then spoke to our enlightenment and
edification. Elder Forsgren closed the meeting
with prayer. The afternoon meeting opened with a song, and prayer by Elder Chr. Christiansen, who then spoke. Elder Forsgren bore a powerful testimony and spoke words of
encouragement. The spirit of God was with us and all was well. The closing
prayer was offered by Elder Forsgren. After the
meeting the brethren and sisters met again. Elder Forsgren
said that there was a couple who wished to be married, namely, Peter Adolph
Forsgren and Kirsten Knudsen. If anyone had
anything against this marriage, they should show it by uplifted hand. No
hands were raised, and it was unanimously sanctioned for the ceremony,
which Elder Forsgren then performed.
Wednesday,
May 11. Elder Forsgren offered the opening
prayer, after which he said that he wished to hear Elder Chr. Christiansen speak and say who he thought was best
to be our president. Elder Christiansen stood up and said that he was
satisfied with Elder Forsgren the day we sailed
from Copenhagen, and had not
felt otherwise in all this time. He proposed that all who wished that Elder
Forsgren should continue to be our president
should show it with uplifted hand. H. J. Christensen seconded the
proposition. Elder Forsgren said that he felt
satisfied with Elder Chr. Christiansen, and
proposed that he be appointed president over 50 unanimously accepted. Elder
Forsgren proposed that Brother H. J. Christensen
be appointed captain over the first ten unanimously accepted. Elder Chr. Christiansen proposed that Father Christiansen be
appointed captain over the next ten, Priest Lars Alexander Justesen captain over the next ten, M.
Chr. Jensen captain over the next ten. Unanimously
accepted. The meeting closed with prayer by Elder Chr.
Christiansen.
Sunday, May 15. Elder John E. Forsgren and many
of the brethren and sisters attended conference in the English camp. In the
afternoon the brethren and sisters met in the Danish camp; prayer was
offered. Elder Forsgren spoke many powerful
words. He proposed, just as had been done in the English conference, that
we sustain the Prophet Brigham Young and his counselors, Patriarch John
Smith, the Twelve Apostles, the Seventies, and all Elders, Priests,
Teachers and Deacons-unanimously accepted. Thereafter, it was proposed and
unanimously accepted that Brother Heth be
president of the whole camp, both the English and Danish, also that Brother
Willach be his counselor.
Elder Forsgren spoke, and said that if anyone was
found drunk in the Danish camp he should be cut off from the
Church--unanimously agreed. He wished to know if there were any who did not
wish to be under a captain. It was proposed that those who wished to go in
a company under a captain should show it with uplifted hand-unanimous....
He said that if any of the brethren and sisters wished to be blessed that
they should first bless them and not try to hinder them. He prayed for the
blessings of the Lord upon us all. He said that if anyone wanted to put his
accounts in order that he was prepared to do so.
Elder Chr. Christiansen stood up and said he was
glad to see the things which had been done... He continued that everyone
could receive the same blessings who would seek the Lord in humility, which
were promised in the scriptures. He read from a letter from Copenhagen that the
Church membership there was 1400, and that before Willard Snow returned
home it had risen 300 more. The brethren in Norway had been
released from jail; several persons had been baptized in Sweden. He spoke of
many edifying things and prayed for the Lord’s blessings over us.
Elder H. J. Christensen spoke next to our enlightenment and instruction,
and was thankful for the pleasant day which we had had. He also wished the
blessings of the Lord over us. It was announced by the president that a
meeting should be held at 6:30 at which the
captains would have the opportunity to express their feelings. Meeting
closed with a song and prayer.
A song and prayer opened the evening meeting. Captains M. Chr. Jensen, Father C. Christiansen, H. J. Christensen
and Justesen spoke their feelings in a spirit of
humility, followed by Elder C. Christiansen. Elder Forsgren
expressed his feelings and said he was satisfied with the captains who had
been chosen that it was just as God would have brought to such a position.
He sealed the blessings of the Lord upon them in the name of Jesus Christ,
Amen. The meeting closed with song and prayer.
Monday, May 16. Elder Forsgren left to obtain
some oxen.
What
animal would pull the emigrant’s covered wagons? Horses were quickly
rejected because they could not live off prairie grasses along the way. As
a result, most of the emigrants decided on oxen. They were strong; could
live off grass or sage; and were less-expensive. One emigrant wrote: “The
ox is a most noble animal, patient, thrifty, durable, gentle
and does not run off. Those who come to this country will be in love with
their oxen. The ox will plunge through mud, swim over streams, dive into
thickets and he will eat almost anything.” There was just one problem: oxen
were slow--about 2 miles-per-hour. There was an alternative for those in a
hurry--mules. Mules were faster, and they too could live off prairie
grasses. But many believed mules didn’t have quite the staying power of
oxen. But perhaps the
biggest problem with mules was their cantankerous disposition.
Tuesday, May
17. A child of Brother R. Andersen passed away. In the evening Brother C.
Christiansen and the other 4 captains met and decided to hold meeting at 7 o’clock this evening with all companies. The meeting
was opened with prayer by Elder Chr. Christiansen
and closed by Elder H. J. Christensen.
Wednesday, May 18. Elder John E. Forsgren
returned with some oxen.
Thursday, May 19. At noon we left our
camp in Keokuk, and in the evening made camp ten English miles out.
Friday, May 20. We traveled four miles and camped. Elder Forsgren and C. Christiansen returned with the rest of
the cattle to Keokuk.
Sunday, May 22. The remainder of the brethren and sisters arrived at our
camp. It had been a hard trip for them as we had had bad weather the
preceding night. It had rained very hard during the night and also the day.
A child was born to Sister Andersen. In the morning the brethren and
sisters met in Elder Forsgren’s tent. A song was
sung, and prayer offered. Elder H. J. Christensen spoke briefly, and said
that he wished to hear his brethren speak. Elder M. Johnsen
then spoke, and several brethren. The meeting was closed with song and
prayer.
Monday, May 23. In the evening Elder Forsgren
called the brethren together and opened the meeting with prayer. He said
that he wished to observe Fast Day tomorrow, with thanksgiving to God.
Elder Chr. Christiansen said he wished the same,
and also that he and his house might serve the Lord. Elder H. J.
Christensen was also satisfied, and wished to hold such an observance. He
made the proposition and it was unanimously agreed. The meeting closed with
prayer by Elder C. Christiansen.
Tuesday, May 24. At 2 p.m. the Saints
met. Elder Forsgren bowed himself with the others
and prayed the Lord’s blessings on us. He spoke briefly, and said that he
and his family were united and would serve the Lord, and he wished to hear
the brethren express their feelings. The captains over tens said they were
thankful for such a day and wished the Lord’s blessings upon us. Many
brethren spoke, expressing their feelings to the inspiration and comfort of
all. The sisters knelt down and prayed, and the blessings of the Lord were
so richly over us, giving us power to repent from all evil. The meeting
lasted until 6 o’clock, when it was
closed with song, and prayer by Elder Forsgren. He spoke briefly to us before closing the
meeting. He was well satisfied with the blessings of the day and prayed the
Lord’s blessings on us all.
Wednesday, May 25. The president over 50 called his group together this evening.
After a song and prayer, Elder Chr. Christiansen
spoke encouragingly to us and wished us to remember to pray for our
captains. He wished us to meet every Wednesday evening at 7 o’clock, camp and weather permitting. Elder H. J.
Christensen spoke to our edification and consolation. The meeting closed
with a song and prayer.
Friday, May 27. We left our camp ground in the morning and continued on our
journey. In the forenoon we arrived at Sugar Creek and camped there [NOTE: Sugar Creek Camp was the first
winter encampment in Iowa
nearest Nauvoo and is approximately six miles west of Montrose].
Sunday, May 29. A meeting was held in the morning at which Elders C.
Christiansen, H. J. Christensen, Father C. Christiansen, M. Chr. Jensen, R. Johnsen and Aagren expressed their thoughts. The blessings of the
Lord were with us to our comfort and cheer. The meeting was opened and
closed with song and prayer. At the afternoon meeting, following a song,
Elder P. Madsen offered prayer. Elder Chr.
Christiansen said that the best way in which to receive blessings is to be
obedient. He read a vision, and spoke to the comfort, and edification of
those present. Elder H. J. Christensen spoke briefly. Father Christiansen
closed the meeting with prayer. Elder Forsgren
left for Keokuk. In the morning we had a storm, with rain, hail and wind.
Monday, May 30. Elder Forsgren returned, and in
the afternoon meeting he told us that we should travel tomorrow. He said
that President Heth had asked him if the brethren
and sisters were satisfied with what he had done for them. He had answered
that they were well satisfied, and that if they had the provisions at hand
they would give him a present. All were agreed therein.
Tuesday, May 31. Three companies began to travel this morning, but as
several oxen belonging to the third company were lost, they remained in
camp on Sugar Creek. During the afternoon we traveled through Farmington, and camped
in the evening. The weather had been very good, with only a little rain.
Brother Kofod’s wagon, in which were riding his
wife and child and Elder Hansen’s wife and child, tipped over in a ditch,
but no one was hurt and the wagon was not broken. All went well; we passed
over some high hills today.
Wednesday, June 1. In the afternoon Captain Justesen’s
company came up to us. Elder Forsgren, who had
gone to Farmington, arrived
back in camp, and so we broke camp and traveled over several hills to the
other side, where we again camped. Shortly before we stopped for the day it
commenced to rain heavily and continued all night, with lightning and
thunder so strong that it shook the ground.
Friday, June 3. In the morning we pulled out again; passed through ‘Dogs Town’, and camped
3 miles from it.
Sunday, June 5. 1 was in Farmington. No meetings
were held. In the afternoon we continued on our way, traveled several
miles, when it began to -rain and hail, with thunder and lightning. Brother
Peter A. Forsgren, as he was driving up a hill,
slipped and fell under his wagon. The wheels passed over him, and his back
and arm were slightly hurt,10 miles from Dog Town.
Monday, June 6. We continued oft our way again and camped in the evening.
The weather was good. We passed through String Town, 1 mile east
of Drakesville.
Log Cabin Built in Drakesville
by Mormon Pioneers in 1840s
Wednesday, June 8. Continued on our journey in the morning. It began to
rain before we stopped for noon, and
continued steadily, with lightning and thunder through the afternoon and
evening, accompanied with some wind towards evening. We camped three miles
west of Drakesville, having passed through that
town.
Thursday, June 9. We continued on our journey and camped in the evening at
Soap Creek, 10 miles from our last camp, and 3 miles from Unionville,
having passed through that town. The weather was good, very warm.
Saturday, June 11. The weather was good. In the evening we camped 9 miles
west of Doddirsjoid, [untranslated]
having traveled 22 miles today.
Sunday, June 12. A meeting was held in the morning, which was ,opened with
a song, and prayer by Elder Forsgren, who then
spoke on the creation of the world; that there were gods who had been
instructed “by God to create the world. His words were instructive and
good. Elder Chr. Christiansen warned and
instructed the Saints. We were happy, and the spirit of the Lord was with
us. Elder Forsgren again spoke briefly, and the
meeting closed with song and prayer by Father Chr.
Christiansen. We continued on our journey in the afternoon and camped 7
miles cast of Chariton pond. The
weather was good all day. Traveled 7 miles.
Chariton Pond
Monday, June 13. During the night a child was born to Elder H. J.
Christensen’s wife. The weather remained good all day, and we traveled 17
miles and camped, 10 miles east of Chariton. We passed
through this town in the morning.
Chariton, Iowa
Tuesday, June 14. The weather was still good. Camped towards evening 7
miles west of Chariton. We traveled
20 miles.
Wednesday, June 15. Traveled 12 miles and camped on a little stream. The
weather was good all day. In the evening a meeting was held, which was
opened with song, and prayer by Elder H. J. Christensen. Elder Forsgren spoke to our edification and instruction,
followed by M. Johnsen, who desired the prayers
of the brethren and sisters, after having made a confession.
Thursday, June 16. We continued on our journey this morning, passed by Four
Mile Stream and Seven Mile Stream, and also Mount Pisgah and the
stream there. We camped in the evening 1-1/2 miles from Pisgah. Traveled
16-1/2 miles today.
The
Mormon History of Mount Pisgah Located in Union County, Southwest Iowa is
Commemorated by this Plaque. More Information is available by clicking here
Friday, June 17. In the evening camped 20 miles from Pisgah. Traveled 19
miles today.
Saturday, June 18. Camped in the evening 22 miles from our last camp, on a
place called the Middle Branch of the Nodaway. The weather was good.
Plat of Nodaway Township, Taylor County, Iowa
Sunday, June 19. We stayed in camp all day. Meetings were held in the
forenoon and afternoon. Powerful talks were given by Elders Forsgren and Christiansen, and confessions were made by
the brethren. It was proposed that Priest Justesen
be ordained to the office of Elder, unanimously accepted. He was then
ordained under the hands of Elders Forsgren and
Christiansen. Sister A. Andersen’s child was blessed by Elders Christiansen
and Forsgren.
Monday, June 20. In the morning we continued our journey, traveled 15 miles
and camped on the West Branch of the Nodaway.
Tuesday, June 21. Traveled 18 miles and camped in the evening by Indian Town. The weather
was good. We passed over the Nishebole River.
Wednesday, June 22. During the night we had a very strong wind, with
lightning and thunder and rain; it rained a little in the morning. We
continued our journey in the afternoon for 10 miles and camped in a place
where there was no firewood.
Lightening on the Prairie Can Be a
Spectacular Sight
Thursday, June 23. We started off in the morning, but as Brother Justesen’s horses were missing, we stopped. He found
his horses and returned to camp. Elder Forsgren
called the brethren together to find out who had money to cross the next
river... When we came to the River Nishebole, and
started to cross it, it so happened that Peter Forsgren’s oxen went into the water with the wagon, but
as it became very deep they started to swim to shore again. As they headed
for shore the wagon box became loose from the wheels and was left behind.
The brethren sprang into the water with their clothes on and fished the
wagon box up. Petrea Petersen was riding in the
wagon but was not hurt, and no one was injured. However, as the two lead
oxen were being hitched to the wagon again they started to run, and stepped
on Brothers A. Poulsen and Soren
Olesen.
Friday, June 24. We continued on our journey, traveled 10 miles and camped.
The weather was good until afternoon, when it began to rain a little.
Saturday, June 25. We traveled 16 miles and arrived at Council
Bluffs, where we camped. We have arrived here all
well and good, having been lead and protected by
the almighty power of the arm of God, both men and animals, wagons and
tents, wherefore God shall have the honor, the praise and the thanks
forever.
Views of Council
Bluffs in the 1850s. More Information
is available by clicking here
Sunday, June
26. The brethren and sisters held a meeting, which was opened with prayer
by Elder H. J. Christensen. Elder Forsgren said
he wished to hear the brethren speak. Elder Geo. P. Dykes stood up and said
he was thankful to God that he had been brought to this place, that the
Danish brethren and sisters had also arrived here, and that everything had
been so enjoyable and well for us. He counseled us against talking with any
of the people of the town, as there was no place where the Devil had more
power than right here, and the people would do all they could to keep the
Saints here. He prayed for the Lord’s blessings on us all.
Elder H. J. Christensen spoke, followed by Father Christiansen, who said he
was thankful to God for His hand which had been over us, and that he did
not wish to remain here, no matter how much he was offered, as he could
have just as well remained in Denmark, but wished
with all his heart to come to Zion. Elder H. F.
Petersen acknowledged his weakness and imperfections, and said he was glad
to be able to read the Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covenants. Elder
Chr. Christiansen said that he and his house
would serve the Lord, and spoke many enjoyable words to our edification.
Elder Forsgren spoke briefly and said he was not
afraid of the Devil, and that he wished to speak a little this afternoon,
but that his lungs were weak. Elder Dykes closed the meeting.
In the afternoon the Saints again met. Prayer was offered, following the
opening song. Elder Forsgren talked, and reminded
the Saints of their covenant. He portrayed the wretchedness which awaited
those who forsook their covenants. The meeting closed with song and prayer.
Monday, June 27. New provisions were received, which were divided.
Tuesday, June 28. More provisions were divided. Niels
Pedersen and family left us and would not go on farther.
Wednesday, June 29. The dealing out of provisions was finished, and in the evening
the captains and several others were called together in a meeting. Elder Forsgren offered prayer and then Elder Justesen said that he had talked with Jorgen Nielsen,
who had said that he wished to remain here in Kanesville.
Thereafter R. Johnsen said he had talked with
Jorgen Nielsen who had said that there were liars and slanderers among us,
and that it was no better among us than any other place in the world. Elder
Sorensen also said that Nielsen did not feel good among the Saints and was
not satisfied. Elders C. Christiansen and H. J. Christensen corroborated
the other statements on the poor conduct of Nielsen and that he was
possessed of an evil spirit. J. Nielsen then stood up and said that he did
not wish to continue with us any longer, and gave some excuses which were
nothing more than what the spirit of darkness gives to people to support
themselves with on such occasions. Elder Forsgren
declared that according to the testimonies which had been borne against
Jorgen Nielsen, that he was found to be in transgression, and had slandered
the Church, and that he could not sustain Jorgen Nielsen in such
circumstances as a brother in the Church. It was then proposed and seconded
that Jorgen Nielsen be excommunicated from the Church, which was voted unanimously.
The meeting closed with prayer by Elder H. J. Christensen.
Thursday,
June 30. Jorgen Nielsen and family left us.
Friday, July 1. Frederikke Frederiksen
left us. In the afternoon we finished our preparations and traveled to the Missouri
River, one mile from Kanesville.
The Route
from Kanesville to Salt Lake Valley
Saturday, July 2. This morning J. Nielsen, accompanied by a police
officer from the city, came to camp to force us to turn over the oxen to
him, for which he had searched the day before, but could not find as H. J.
Christensen had driven off. The officer stopped Brother Christensen and
forced him to return to the city, where he was compelled to pay eleven
dollars.
Sunday, July 3. A meeting was held this morning, which was opened with song
and prayer. Elders C. Christiansen, H. J. Christensen and Mikkel Johnsen spoke, to our
comfort and cheer. A song and prayer closed the meeting. Another meeting
was held in the afternoon, opened with song, and prayer by Elder L. H. Justesen. N. C. Christiansen spoke, to our comfort and
encouragement, and bore a strong testimony with the spirit of truth. C.
Christiansen spoke next, being filled with the spirit of God. After a song had been sung, Elder
Christiansen asked if there were any opposed to the uniting in marriage of
Hans Jorgensen and Dorthe
Christensen. There were none, and so Elder Christiansen performed
the marriage ceremony....
Tuesday, July 5. It rained very hard during the night, accompanied by thunder
and lightning. We began to ferry over the Missouri
River, and four wagons got across, also several
oxen. The brethren had been building a bridge over a slough a short
distance from the river. This we crossed in the afternoon, and traveled a
short distance farther with the four wagons, and camped.
Council
Bluffs Ferry, 1853
Wednesday, July 6. We began to build another bridge, which we drove over
and camped a short distance farther on. Several more wagons crossed the
river. We had good wind and weather. A child was born to Brother Overlade’s wife.
Saturday, July 9. All the wagons finished crossing the river, and all the
oxen except four which should remain, as there was one brother who had been
excommunicated and had broken his covenants, and had brought up a case
against Elder Forsgren.
Sunday, July 10. Elder Forsgren arrived in camp
this morning and a meeting was called. A song was sung, after which Elder
J. E. Forsgren offered prayer and then spoke many
things to us. He reminded us that we were free here to serve the Lord with
all our might and strength, and be thankful to Him for having been led to
this place then He would loose our bonds so we could go forward. Brother Forsgren knew that there were some among us who were
not worthy, and they would have to strive for a long time before they could
obtain the blessings. And everyone should not try to do what he thought
best after reaching the valley, but take the advice of the president. He
said we did not talk like those who would fall away. He thanked the
brethren for their willingness to work during the crossing of the river. He
wished us all to remember our blessings and to wander in humbleness and
meekness. He felt happy to think that we were here, and said that we had
seen enough of the Holy Ghost to understand that mankind must be made
perfect; and that when the day comes that they should be baptized again,
that they would see and know their imperfections which they had had in
their travels, and know that they had not done all that they could have
done. The unworthy cannot take part in the blessings unless they repent. He
spoke of many things which I in my imperfections do not have the power to
remember and write. In closing he prayed the Lord to strengthen us so that
we might remain faithful until the end. May it so come to pass, in the name
of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Elder Forsgren then said that he wished to
reorganize the company, and desired to lay the proposition before us.
Inasmuch as there were nearly 100 men, he had decided to have I captain
over 100 men, 2 captains over 50, 4 captains over 10 each in 4 wagons, and
1 captain over 10 each in 3 wagons in the first company of 50. And in the
second company of 50-3 captains over 10 each in 4 wagons,
and 1 captain over 10 each in 3 wagons. Elder Chr.
Christiansen felt that this was the right thing to do, and H. J.
Christensen seconded the proposition.
Elder Chr. Christiansen stood up and said he was
thankful to God for His guiding spirit, and admonished the brethren saying,
“Watch over yourselves and be obedient.” He was glad that God had appointed
His servants upon the earth to do His will, and he wished Elder Forsgren to be with us, be our president, and lead us
with all the power which God would give him; and he proposed that we
sustain Brother Forsgren as president and give
him blessings both temporal and spiritual. Unanimously agreed.
Elder Forsgren proposed that we sustain Elder Chr. Christiansen as captain of 100, H. J. Christensen
as captain of the 1st 50, C. Christiansen as captain of the 2nd
50-unanimously agreed. The following were proposed as captains of 10 in the
first company of 50: Peter A. Forsgren, captain
of the 1st 10, of 4 wagons; Carl Kofod, captain
of the 2nd 10, of 4 wagons; L. A. Justesen,
captain of the 3rd 10, of 4 wagons; N. C. Christiansen, captain of the 4th
10, of 4 wagons, and H. C. Hansen, captain of the 5th 10, of 3 wagons.
Unanimously agreed.
In the 2nd 50 M. Chr. Jensen as captain over the
1st 10, of 4 wagons; H. Pedersen as captain of the 2nd 10, of 4 wagons (and
that he be ordained a Priest); P. Madsen as captain of the 3rd 10, of 4
wagons; H. Dinnesen as captain of the 4th 10, of
3 wagons, and also that he should be ordained a Priest. Unanimously agreed.
It was thereafter appointed that Capt. M. Chr.
Jensen with his company, and Capt. H. J. Christensen with his wagon should
travel this evening to the Elkhorn River as pioneers to build a ferry on
which to cross the river.
Elder Forsgren said that everything which would
delight the soul would be found in the land of Zion. The
ordinations were performed, and the meeting closed with a song, and prayer
by Elder C. Christiansen.
Monday, July
11. It so happened this morning that H. J. Christensen’s son fell out of
the wagon and one wheel passed over his face, so that his head was somewhat
flattened out. His nose was pushed into the head, and he looked terrible.
The brethren joined in prayer, anointed him, and took a bone out of his
nose.
Tuesday, July 12. In the morning Elder Forsgren
went to Kanesville (Jorgen Nielsen’s affair, and
had to pay 30 dollars). The rest of Capt. C. Christiansen’s company left
for the Elkhorn River this
morning.
Kanesville, Iowa by Federick Piercy, 1853. That
year was significant also for in 1853 after most of the remaining Mormons
went to the Salt Lake Valley at the request of Church leaders, those who
took over Kanesville renamed the very active
frontier town Council Bluffs. This was to capitalize on the name of the
area on both sides of the Missouri
River that had been so named by fur traders and
trappers even before 1846.
Wednesday, July 13. The rest of us started on our journey this afternoon,
traveled 3 miles and camped in the evening. We had some rain and lightning
in the night.
Thursday, July 14. Early in the morning we started on our way, and camped
in the evening after having traveled 18 miles.
Friday, July 15. Traveled 10 miles this morning and arrived at Elkhorn, then
traveled 4 miles farther and came to the Elkhorn River, where we
crossed with our oxen and wagons in good condition, through the goodness of
the man and the spirit which God poured out. The man here was willing to
let us borrow the ferry without cost. From the ferry we traveled about 1
mile and camped. We could see the prairie stretching out before us. In the
evening Elder Forsgren baptized Rasmus Justesen and Peter Justesen at the Elkhorn Crossing.
Elkhorn River Ferry Stop
by Frederick Piercy, 1853
Another View
of the Ferry Across the Elkhorn River 25 Miles
Northwest of Omaha. From an
1854 Drawing by George Simons, Whose Uncle, Norton Simons, Owned the Bellevue Ferry
Saturday, July 16. We continued our journey this morning, passed
river, and camped in the evening, having traveled 15 miles-we are now 16
miles from the Elkhorn.
Sunday, July 17. Today was a day of rest. A meeting was held in the
afternoon, opened with a song and prayer by Elder Forsgren,
who then spoke briefly and said he wanted to hear the brethren and sisters.
Elder Christiansen spoke, followed by H. J. Christensen, who talked about
his son who was run over on July 11th, and he was thankful to God and was
satisfied, and hoped that his son would soon be well again. H. Dinnesen expressed his thoughts, and then Father
Christiansen stood up and bore his testimony with the spirit of truth and
thankfulness to God for having led us to this place. Several brethren
acknowledged their faults, and the sisters raised their prayers and thankfulness
to God. Ras