Doggie nightmare

 Here we are in 101 degrees in October Arizona: We are going on a trip to visit daughter #2.            This made me think of my last trip home from Maryland.                                                              My question, is it unfair to place animals alongside paying passengers?

The topper flight home from Maryland was last year...Thanks to United Airlines! 

I felt we were in trouble when I saw the dark clouds in the distance as we drove to Dulles airport.  After we arrived at the designated gate D3, we were shuffled down the boarding area to another gate a 15-minute walk away. And thus began the adventure. We boarded the plane about one hour late. 

Our seats were up front and in our row was a woman in the window seat. "You don't mind do you...I have a dog in a crate under the seat." I immediately responded, "I'm very allergic to any animal hair." I don't care was her attitude, and she said, "He's an Airedale terrier. No one is allergic to a terrier." 

I thought, "just watch me."

We had been sitting on the tarmac for about 40 minutes when she began to complain. "Oh, I'm so hot, my dog is hot, he's going to suffocate and die." As a steward walked by, she yelled blowing fetid breath across my face, "Do you want this dog's death on your conscious?"  

    Before long, the captain came on the overhead speaker, "We are in the line to take off, we are trying to circulate the air to keep everyone as cool as possible. We don't want to get out of the Que and lose our place, so please be patient everyone."
    The moaning and whining about the heat and a dying dog began again in earnest. "Isn't it against the law to make us be on the tarmac this long, we should be going back to the gate until the storm passes. We could die from the heat and lack of air." she repeated over and over to any crew person who passed by. Then the captain came on and said, "We are going back to the gate as we need to re-fuel and some of the crew need to be replaced."

I thought to myself, "Baloney, they are going back because of this complaining woman." 

    Back at the gate the dog lady exited after she got other passengers who were exiting to carry her dog. She said, "I need my cane." I never saw a crew member leave, nor did I see any additional fuel going on-board. Aha! I knew it, I hope she stays off and keeps her little dog too! (I was feeling a little bit witchy. But Alas... Oh not so! 

    I barely had time to use the postage stamp space that doubles as a bathroom when all the passengers who had exited the plane returned. And then I saw the devil lady and her dog. She had such a smug look on her face. Her hissy fit had just cost the 120 people on the plane a few extra hours of waiting for the storm to pass. The line of waiting planes ahead of us to take off had doubled.

    By the time we were in the air, dog-lady had her animal in her lap and my allergies kicked in. My eyes began to itch. I took out my contacts, applied ice to my rapidly swelling eyelids and could not see to read or do much of anything for the next five hours. When we landed, I was having difficulty taking a breath.

    We arrived in Phoenix after midnight, and it took a while to find a ride because we were too late to catch the Uber we had reserved. We noticed dog lady running to catch a cab. She was dancing along with her dog crate on wheels. She must have lost that cane as there was not one in sight!

Questions for United Air and all Air lines:
     Do air-crew persons have a right to change annoying passengers and their dogs from one seat to another at the expense of other passengers? (I learned two other passengers had refused to have her sit in their row.)
     Are there more people allergic to peanuts (1%) than animal hair (10%)? or is it just that more people have sued about peanuts on planes?
     Do dogs and their owners have more rights to a seat on the plane than other passengers?
     Do plane companies have the responsibility to ask passengers if they are allergic to animals before they seat them next to the pet parade.
     Should dog or cat owners sit in the back row all together with their animals...and bother each other? Yes I think so!

And I have decided I am way too nice! 

What do you think?

Escape from East Germany, the book of Ruth to be published, order on Amazon after November 2 2024

Oh Helen! 09/16/1917--09/18/2016

 An old-fashioned Girl 

I never thought my mother would get old I never thought I would write a story such as this Bittersweet, and strange for me to see I’m sad as I watch Helen fade away and realize as she struggles with life and death. One day if I allow it; she will be me, or I will be her.

1. Young Helen 

2. California Helen 

3. Poor Helen 

4. Helen Fades Away 

5. Helen Oh No! 

6. Oh Helen! 

Copyright ISBN 

1. Young Helen My mother, Helen Elizabeth Mills was born September 1916. She was the daughter of a domineering German father and a sweet demure...1/4 American Indian mother, (or so it is told; we are not quite sure.) Helen told me "My father loved my sister Ruth the best. She was a tomboy, and I was too fragile.” 

During her school days Helen’s best friend was named Helen too. They were born on the same day, at the same hospital, delivered by the same doctor (Richardson) less than an hour apart. Helen 2 was outgoing and able to coax shy Helen to participate in school activities and reach out to make friends. Percy Mills, Helen’s father, came from a large German, family. They were a happy group at picnics and lake swimming parties. 

Helen’s grandfather Jacob had a farm and grew vegetables, especially carrots and asparagus. All of Percy’s brothers worked on the farm as boys. Percy’s older brother Philip died during a flu epidemic at the age of eight. Percy’s brother, Leslie, later became a paperhanger, and Percy’s brother Arthur was repairing a roof and fell to his death. John Jacob and Arthur married Sisters. There were pranks and music and fun at family parties. 

Percy was the town inspector of construction and a plumber of renown (in his own stories or mind). Clever Clarence diversified with a gas station- convenience store and was the town poet. Helen quietly observed everyone and timidly reached out to make friends with a few in the raucous group. 

Minnie, Ethel’s mother, had been married to John Smith, but John died after they were married less than a year when he was thrown from a horse. Thomas Rattle, Minnie’s second husband, (left one day and never returned.) We discovered searching through census records that he had lived in California for many years and died there in a rooming house. No one had ever bothered to him. 

Minnie’s third husband, Horatio Reed, hired Minnie as a housekeeper and nanny to his five children. He was a Widower. On a following census I discovered Minnie was listed as his wife and an 1888 marriage certificate confirmed they had been married. Minnie and Horace had three children. Arthur, Ethel, and Ernestine who according to Helen did not live with them and visited infrequently. I don’t know if my mother knew she had an aunt or if my grandmother Ethel knew that she had a sister. I was surprised to find a birth certificate stating that the parents of Ernestine were Minnie and Horace. 

Horace and Minnie separated before Minnie died. She was buried by a Horace who was the son of her husband Horace’s first wife. 

When my father, Herman Herles saw Helen skating on the old mill pond he fell in love at first sight. Helen was only 14, but he was smitten and determined to wait for her to grow up and marry her. At the time Herman was 23. He didn’t mention his age to anyone, especially my grandfather until He and Helen were engaged. I guess Herm figured by then it would be too late for Percy to protest. 

Herman was the first boy in the Anna Rose and Herman Herles family. He was raised with a strong hand. He was an altar boy at the local Catholic church. (I have wondered if this experience as a young boy affected some of his later behavior.) He was expected to become the priest of the family but instead became the “Man” of the house, when his father moved out of the family home. Young Herman remained dedicated to the Catholic religion, attending church each Sunday, until the day he died.

 The arranged marriage of Herman’s parents was not a happy one and Herman Sr. left the home soon after the youngest child Rose was born. I was told, “Grandma kicked Grandpa out of bed and then out of the house because she said seven children are more than enough.” Although Herman’s parents never divorced due to strong Catholic beliefs, the abandonment of the family by Herman Sr. led to young Herman’s bitter feelings. Herman Sr. had a lifelong devotion to the Boy Scouts and participated in outdoor and scout activities with children other than his own. This led to such hostility on Herman’s part that he refused to let his own son, Timothy (my brother) become a member of the Boy Scouts. Herman Jr. found the Woodcraft Rangers at the YMCA and directed my brother Tim to those activities. It took me a long time to understand why my dad hated the Boy Scouts. 

I only remember meeting this grandfather once. Herman Jr. (nick-named “Sunny Jim) graduated college with an accounting degree and helped his family financially until he married Helen. Herms’ first job was with Western Electric. The company sent him for several years to night school for an additional degree where he earned a business accounting degree. He worked and went to school in New York City, living with his grandmother in her Brooklyn home. He helped in the family store and went to his mother’s home in New Jersey on the weekends to deliver goods from the family mercantile. He drove a horse drawn wagon and deliveries took all weekend. And of course, he courted Helen on Sunday after church. After Helens’ High School Graduation and Senior Class Trip she worked as a secretary for a Lawyer until she and Herman married. She used her shorthand to make notes and when I asked her, “What are those squiggly lines?” She said it was ‘secret writing’ and it was how she kept track of things she bought what she did and where she wanted to go. 

Before they married Herman purchased a house in Closter New Jersey near Helen’s parent’s home. The wedding took place in Helen’s parents’ home May 1932. None of the Herles family attended because Helen was not Catholic. The brand-new family grew with a dog, King, and the birth of one boy, Timothy and one girl, Patty Ann. Helen’s life was ideal.  Then the unexpected tragedy occurred that interrupted Helen’s perfect life. Helen was moved away from her safe New Jersey home to California 3,000 miles away. Away from her home, away from family and friends, away from all she knew at the age of 26. 

It was like moving to a foreign land but as a dutiful wife she packed up her life and relocated. Herman bought a furnished house in California so after the move, not even the furniture was familiar, and certainly not the weather. I don’t think my mother Helen ever recovered from this loss. 

They were uprooted because Herman had been offered a job as the controller in the sound production movie industry at Sound Services, Westrex. The same company that was part of the Westrex phone company in New York, and the one who had paid for a good portion of his college education. I doubt he realized what effect this move would have on his shy wife. The offer to take over money management at the sound studios was during the time when silent movies were on the way out and “talkies” were starting to take over. Studios were being built in California where land was cheap, and the weather was nice all year long. I was told they moved because there was a contract associated with the company who had supported his higher education and the offered salary and perks for moving was exceptionally good. 

One thing pleased Helen for sure, it took them away from Mother Anna Rose Herles and her vocal contempt for her oldest son’s young wife because she was a non-Catholic girl. Helen told me that a year after they married and before Timothy was born, they were married again in a Catholic church to please Herm’s mother. Anna Rose did not attend the wedding in Helen’s parents’ home. “Good grief, they were Lutherans!” This is the reason my brother, and I were raised away from family associations. No grandparents, aunts, uncles, or cousins nearby. And no religion either. Herman continued going to the Catholic Church, and since Helen stayed home, so did Tim and I. There was a Lutheran Church across the street when we lived in Sun Valley and Helen, Tim and I attended services there, but after we moved to Van Nuys there was no church nearby. 

Herman used his two-week vacation in the summer to make the drive across the country. This was for Helen’s sake, but after a while the trips were token attempts for Helen to stay connected to her relatives. We had snapshot glances at our grandparents. I loved spending time with Grandpa Percy because he was funny and told outrageous stories and my Grandmother Ethel took me on walks to teach me about the plants you could use as medicine. She told me she learned this talent from her mother Minnie who learned from her mother Leota who was a medicine woman for their tribe. Helen gave me a few things that had been her mother’s treasures. One was a doll made of leather and another was a ceremonial carved powder horn, which was stolen when she made the move from Van Nuys to Santa Clarita. The only thing I remember about Grandmother Anna Rose is from my perspective as a child. This grandmother came out to California every few years. During these visits I observed three things. She never smiled, her shoes were ugly, and she always wore black. I knew she didn’t like me much until one day I blurted out, “I want to be a Nun.” After that she hugged me, kissed my cheek, and told me, “God loves the women who devote their lives to him.” One time she gave me a storybook doll dressed in a Nun habit. I still have that doll in a box under the bed. She died before I was old enough to join a convent. Thank Goodness! 

The first time Herman’s mother Anna Rose came to visiting us in California I was about seven years old. Whenever people would visit with us, we took one-day trips to the same places; Sequoia National Park, Knotts Berry farm, Tijuana, Sunset Blvd, and the beach. One time I got car sick on a road trip to Sequoia National Park. I had been asleep on the floor of the car and when I sat up, I threw up on Grandma Anna. We stopped along the way to buy us both clothes so that we didn’t smell bad. It was right after the Bakersfield earthquake in 1952 and we drove around for what seemed like hours before we could find a store that was open. It’s the only time I saw this grandmother dressed in a color other than Black. After we got back in the car, I looked over at her new dress that was made of a soft green material covered with bouquets of roses. It made her cheeks look pink and her face less stern. I recall considering throwing-up on all of her black dresses. As I got older my dad told me, “Please never wear a black dress.” And I never did while he was alive. 

Helen rarely left our home in Sun Valley California. Although she had a driver’s license in New Jersey, after they settled in California, she never drove a car again. This led to her becoming isolated and more introverted. Groceries were purchased by Herman from a list that Helen made. She had become the perfect isolated old-fashioned wife who devoted herself to husband and children. Herman was a jovial man, very outgoing and made friends easily. Herman’s friends in this new neighborhood of Sun Valley became Helen’s. All the people on the block were living in post-world-war housing, which featured plastic doorknobs and cramped space. Herman was not drafted to serve in WWII, or the Korean war because his work with communication was considered essential to the war effort. Herman was also moved to the top of the list to get a car because there was no public transportation built in California like there was in New York. He needed to drive through the Sepulveda pass to the Hollywood Westrex Sound complex which later became Sound Services, and then Todd AO Sound which is still there in the same building. Elizabeth Taylors' husband Michael Todd had purchased the company.

Timothy and Patty Ann’s childhood was filled with new friends and visits from the New York family. Suddenly it seemed like many people from across the country wanted to visit and see what the West had to offer. Herman was the master of the six-hour drive and the “Chevy Chase” 2-3 bounce-look at a National Park landscape or whatever we were visiting. Then everyone was rushed back into the car. As I look back at this strange childhood, I realize now I never got to explore these magical places. I always wore a frilly dress, patent leather shoes and ruffled socks. Not the clothing to play or investigate my surroundings. On our cross-country trips to New York took 3-1/2 days. Tim, and I were tucked into the back seat of the car with a roll of lifesavers and a comic book. This was to keep us quiet all day. I don’t think cars in those days had radios and no MP3 players either. However, we became experts of the line-down-the middle of the car seat. 

Because we had so many visitors, I remember Helen lamented there were only three bedrooms in our small house. Then one day she was cleaning the living room, turned over the seat cushions and discovered the couch had a hide-away bed inside. She recited that story frequently and how it solved the problem of visitors crowding into our little house. I loved it when she told the story because it made her laugh. Then we moved to a much larger home in Van Nuys. 

Homestead Lonely and Alone

On hand braced her tired back, the other raised to shade her eyes                                                      squinting at the fence to nowhere and cobalt cloudless skies

The waiting was a daily chore; her skirt entwined bare legs and feet                                                    Like a sentinel she watched for him to make her life complete

He was the stockman, whistling at doggies, and slapping his chaps with a lariat                                    He passed her school of brown skinned kids, and on that day their eyes met

Then later that year he bought two bags each of flour, beans and rice                                                      and went to her school "Would you wed me and share my homestead Mam, that would be mighty nice."

So, she traded her dreams for a prairie flat, and section of dry thirsty land.                                                That begged for moisture almost more than her cracked and callused hands 

Today she pulled the galvanized tub beside the lean-two home                                                                and scrubbed on the washboard in rhythm and hummed, all alone

The washboard read Saginaw, Memphis number eight-hundred and one.                                                  She dragged the tub with the cool as it moved and raced to beat the sun

Clothes flapped on the line, and the old windmill whined, as hot dusty wind blew                                  and she wondered who might have washboard, number eight-hundred and two 

No longer could she climb on Old Bessie's back and travel bumping into to town                                    So patiently sat vigil and told tales to the little one kicking beneath her gown

With the setting sun she needed to see him riding along the cedar post fence                                        The pains came and went getting harder and fear masked her countenance

But he didn't come, and she couldn't wait, so went down the trail by the rusted gate                          Seven sum miles and she walked all the way to the neighbor's house at the end of the day 

She got to the home as the labor was done, then sat on the steps and she bore him a son                       He found her there after riding the range; and looked at the babe and he vowed to change,

So, he went into town and bought three bags each of four beans and rice                                                  and said, "Thank you Lord, my family's mighty nice.  

(1927 Ruth Fuller was the school arm at the Moccasin Indian Reservation on the Arizona strip when she met Harold Hanrion. This true story was told to daughter-in-law Patricia, the wife of her youngest son Patrick who was the only one of her five boys born in a hospital. Not long after that Ruth gave Patricia her old washboard; Chicago, Saginaw, Memphis #801)

  

 

Open Letter to Our National and Arizona State Leaders,                                        3/15/24

It is easy to sit in a tall building looking down at what the common folk must manage and tout your flawed perception of kindness for all.  After suffering through the pandemic and the many ramifications that effect physical and mental health it would be wise to use constraint when welcoming anyone to cross our United States border from who knows where?

                My entire working life, as an RN at the young age of eighteen, I have experienced the disasters of health and safety, from the Asian flu, Spanish Flu, Ebola, Aids and Covid to name just a few.

                I had nursing students in a pediatric clinic in Los Angeles where they treated entire families for tuberculosis.  Half the first graders at an elementary school were treated for over a year with a TB medicine because a grandmother from Mexico would stand at the gate waiting for her grandchildren to walk them home…keep them safe. All the while she was coughing at everyone who left the campus through that gate.

The most dangerous thing law breaking people crossing our southern border bring to our country along with drugs, is disease.  That is why it is important to ensure everyone entering our country does NOT have a communicable disease.

                Catch and release or “return for a court date” does not work.  Our system should test for disease before anyone can enter. Last year after an extended stay in Canada, we (as passport carrying citizens) needed to provide a negative covid test before entering our own country.

 I ask, “How is it fair to legal citizens, working and living in our country for you to release drug pushing, gang members with the great possibility they carry disease into our cities. Ellis Island tested immigrants for a variety of diseases including “pink eye.”  My grandparents described, “Officials would lift eyelids with button hooks to look for red sclera of the eye, and a temperature was taken of each person who departed the ships that were pouring onto the docks along the east coast. On top of that everyone was required to have contact with a citizen and resident of the USA to give support during adjustments to new language and living circumstances.

To prevent a health and economic disaster in our country we need to carefully re-visit our laws (which are not followed) for health and safety before people have the privilege of entering our country.  We have the law. Why are they Not being adhered to? Why have other state leaders recognized this crisis. Why are you putting this burden on hard working law-abiding families.  

From a retired Professor of Nursing, Wife, Mother of five and Grandmother of 14.         

                        I had a special request for this adventure, so here it is again, enjoy!

Our California house in Christmas Glory!
The new owners will never match this!

It's a beautiful day today, blue sky, white fluffy clouds, and the newscaster said it would rain...I guess if you're a weather person it doesn't matter what you say! It was supposed to rain and snow last week...I didn't do that either...It hasn't snowed for 20 years, and It's never snowed around Christmas. I guess that's why I always tried to create a perfect holiday since we don't even have the cold weather to add to the spirit. I can blame almost burning the house down twice to the great California weather.

(Now we are in Arizona, with no fireplace...my husband is very glad.)

But, I digress....this is the story of my quest for the perfect Christmas which pretty much exploded right along with the Christmas tree...innocently of course. That year to save money we cut our own tree and it was quite lopsided...however...we put it in a corner to disguise the misshapen limbs, then after the children and I had it all decorated, (Patrick was at a church meeting and we were going to surprise him when he got home with our beautiful decorated tree.) I decided to straighten out the crooked limbs by snipping some of the parts that stuck out with the garden sheers....(BAD decision)

Well you guessed it...I snipped through the strings of lights and when the live wires came in contact with the metal sheers all the strings of

Safely away from fireplaces and real Christmas trees in Arizona

lights and half the ornaments exploded in one horrific POP SIZZLE. Now the kids were delighted...never had they seen such a grand display of fireworks...and right inside the house...I had to open all the back windows to get the smoke and electric smell out.  and quickly loaded the kids in the car, Pajamas and all...and we drove to the Do It Center and bought new lights and several boxes of ornaments. We had the tree all re-decorated by the time Pat got home and he never knew the difference...until the kids told him about the light show!

A few years after that I almost set the house on fire. I was once again naive enough to try and come up with the perfect Rockwell moment (since we don't have snow). 

I've given up the quest for holiday perfection and I don't try that anymore, but at the time I still thought I could make it happen. Anyway, it was around five in the morning, dark and cold....unusual for December, I wanted the family to come down the stairs to see a beautiful lit tree surrounded by gifts...a fire in the fireplace with hot chocolate and warm sweet rolls set out.

Now, remember it's rarely cold enough to light a fire so we have not had many fires in the fireplace, and even then they were started by Patrick or Michael with their Eagle Scout skills put into play...But I... in my exuberance thought I had seen them do it enough to get the yule log going myself...not so...I had the flue shut! Oh I got the paper and twigs under the log blazing away, but the smoke rolled out into the living room like a thick black blanket..realizing my mistake I tried to reach in and push the handle the other way, but by now the flames were not only going...they were licking up and out of the fireplace setting the garland and some of the other decorations on the mantle, on fire.

The fire alarm went off (which usually means dinner is ready, as my cooking skills are a bit lacking) and big Pat came bounding down the stairs. He and son Michael threw water at the fire and had it out in seconds. but the black smoke had laid a thick layer of soot up the front of the fireplace and across the ceiling. All the decorations near by had melted into green and red blobs. What a mess. I was so mad at myself and could only think of having to clean up along with getting the turkey dinner on the table for the 26 people we were expecting to arrive in about 4 hours.

Without even stopping to scold myself I pulled it together and went to work with cleaner and got the soot removed immediately. I moved around some of my decorations and filled in the empty places where things had gone up in smoke. The only thing left was the smokey smell and I got rid of that by opening all the windows and doors (learned from experience) and lighting some candles. By the time Patrick came back down the stairs with a camera to record my fiasco...HA! the mess was gone! And thank goodness there was no record of my mistake to show our guests or tease me with....

Now...I must brag...One year we had the perfect outdoor display of holiday decorations. You see our house looks a bit like the Griswold's house in the movie "Christmas Vacation" (When we were done I put up a sign saying "Griswold's" and freaked out the mailman as he thought we had moved...he had never seen the movie with Chevy Chase.)

Michael, our youngest son had always wanted to put up tons of lights so I said okay...not realizing the pull of electricity would constantly flip the fuses and turn off lights everywhere in the house. We solved the problem by running electric cords from different outlets all around the place. I must have run to the hardware store ten times, not only for lights, but new extension cords...and that year the bill was outrageous...but it was worth it.

Ever since then the neighbors have tried to keep up with the extravagance even though we only put up the 60 strings of lights one time. And it was the only time my grand plans turned out okay...well almost, except for having to reset the breakers several times every evening.

Mike proud of his illumination victory in 2010

Since Michael got married and moved away, (He was my partner in Holiday illumination) I 've been cured of trying to have our holiday resemble anything close to what you see in any of the classic Christmas films...and as my decorations get faded or broken I force myself not to replace them. So each year the boxes I drag out of the loft gets smaller in number and next year I'm going to order a cooked turkey from the grocery store. Heck, the weather's great and I've got better things to do than cook!  (Like plan my next fiasco)

Patricia, daughters Colleen & Megan, grand daughter Jess...crazy decorating

 There is a silver lining out there somewhere!

Why don't my pants fit?  I weigh almost the same as I did ten years ago.  I think gravity has something to do with my wardrobe malfunction.  It's gravity and the fact that my adipose tissue seems to migrate.  

I mean move around.  I see the advertisements for Brazilian butts.  I have the same butt only thing it's in the front.  I guess I should walk backwards and then I'd be in fashion. 

I know my condition is the result of time passing, yes, I admit it. Getting older is the pits.  A while back I went to a gerontology class so I could teach Medical Surgical Nursing.  Ha, the information they talked about is my life!  

First they mentioned your vision not only fades, but colors become more difficult to match as detailed perception also fades.  So I end up looking like a Johnny Depp character from Alice with bright colors. Ones that I thought were faded and subtle. 
And who knew..Ha..I wear glasses sometimes WITH my contacts to read pharmacy labels which are written for the little itsy bitsy Whos in the Horton story.

  
Then they mentioned that your taste is the next to go. Some young whipper snappers of about 50 years or so said "you are born with 100% of your taste buds, they don't grow back so when you destroy them with hot liquids...brain freeze cold, and Tabasco sauce your taste begins to disappear."  I think that means that by the time you are 80 you have anywhere from 25-20% of those taste buds left...that's why some of the things I hated as a kid... you know like...garlic, onions, avocados, you like in your senior years.  

That's also why old people chew on mints constantly to get rid of the bad breath from the noxious foods they eat.  Eating strong foods can at least allow you to get some enjoyment of food.  Salty and Sweet still remain, but chewing may be a problem.  I remember Patrick's dad being hooked on chips and doughnuts...makes sense now!

Balance can go pretty quick so that's the broken hip thing as you fall down because the message to the brain to re-adjust your posture or "Quick..you'll FALL" is pretty slow.  

Hot also takes a long time to reach the old thinker too and that's why my mother-in-law could take out a tray of cookies from the oven without hot pads to protect her hands...

I'm still going to try and get this five baby baggy belly to reposition or go away...but decided if I did; it would be worse.  Hmmm, one giant boob, no... a hump back, one large hip, Oh DARN! Naw.

Then I thought, "how about the thing I saw on TV the other day that flattens your stomach.  But where does that fat go...right up into your neck and thoracic cavity so you look like you have a goiter and can't breathe to boot.  So there you go!

Asphyxiate to death, while looking good!  I don't like that option.   
This is grim...so picture this, a weirdly dressed, smelly, falling down, person who is able to stand extremes of temperature due to slow neuro movement. 

But then I tried to think of one good thing as I usually do.  And decided there was one good thing; as Social security runs out WA-LA who cares!  You won't care or be bothered when forced to eat cat food and crackers because the taste and smell will not matter due to zero taste buds and a lack of  olfactory sense. (maybe not so okay with lumpy or stringy texture) 

You won't care about lots of mis-matched old clothes either for now you can't distinguish anything except how bright the colors appear to you...

Hmmm , that's a silver lining, Sort-of-I guess. 

I am reposting this thought because,

 #1 No one read it ten years ago when I first posted it and 

#2 With Thanksgiving on the way...the yearly struggle to lose weight begins! 

This is a reader's theater, which can be performed with adults and youth. It was performed in Santa Clarita and Valencia California Stakes during their handcart treks. It was written at the request of our Stake President in 2011 by Patricia A. Hanrion.  It was researched and based on accounts of several handcart treks that were documented and also used stories in personal Journals during the trecks that took place in the fall of 1856-1860. All references are listed.                                                                    

Dedicated to those Saints in the handcart companies who never saw their “Beautiful Zion in the Mountain.”

Handcarts to Zion, A Reader’s Theater in 3 parts By Patricia Hanrion,

  (may request abbreviated version by contact with patgunny@gmail.com)

 

 The bugle sounds: participants and audience gather around the campfire.

The setting is minimalist “in the round or half circle” with wagons, "hand carts" gathered around a fire ring. Cast is placed on boxes and stumps, enough for the performers to use as the stage.  

Presented as a reader’s theater with acting, some movement and emotion, without the need to             memorize the script; participants should be skilled enough to deliver feeling and emotion with limited rehearsals.

Audience can be seated on stumps and quilts on the floor, or traditional seating.

Parts one, two and three can be presented in one evening (as the abbreviated version indicates) or two and three afternoons or evenings can take place in other venues, using a similar setting with easy transport to a trek site.

Optional Portable screen behind the setting to project gobo or digital scene:

 Other options Can lead in with digital projection of emigration from Europe, and eastern states.   

 During the 2^nd and 3^rd parts optional projection of appropriate trek scene and during the singing of “Come, Come ye saints” slides of pioneer scenes or youth during trek.

 See references for sources of all accounts. Although all stories told are fully documented and recorded in Journals, not all occurred on: The Fifth Handcart Company Trek Captained led by Edward Martin

 

Cast for Handcarts to Zion:

                                                 Accent                                                     plains crossing

Brother Edward Martin                                                  5^th HHC Captain        

Brother Archer Walters              (English)                     1^st HHC Capt. Ellsworth

Brother J.D.T. McAllister                                               3^rd wagon train

Brother William Clayton          (English)                       1^st wagon train Capt. Young

Sister Mary Bathgate              (English)                         2nd HHC Capt. McArthur

Sister Isabelle Park                 (English)                         2nd HHC Capt. McArthur

Brother Kirkar Sarkis             (Armenian)                     1890 wagon train

Brother Arshak Sarkis             (Armenian)                    1890 wagon train

Sister Arick Sarkis                    (Armenian)                    1890 wagon train

Sister Sarah Egan                                                           6th HHC Capt. Evans   

Brother Charles Gregory             (Irish)                        5^th HHC Capt. Martin

Sister Mary Gregory                     (Irish)                        5^th HHC Capt. Martin

Brother Joseph Roberts             (English)                       3rd HHC Capt. Bunker

Sister Emily Hill                     (English)                       5^th HHC Capt.  Martin                       

Jim Bridger                                                                   1800’s Mountain-man    

Music:

 Cheer Saints Cheer                

 Come Come ye Saints                        

 High on a Mountain Top                 

Oh Ye Elders of Israel

 As Sisters in Zion 

Now Let Us Rejoice                                        

 

Not included in song book

            “Prayer Song” from “The Order is Love”, only main cast sings as indicated

Instruments Needed:

Bugle

Concertina, Harmonica, violin, guitar, can also use recorded instrument back-up 

Props:

For each member in the audience a Company Trek Guide Book,

Page one and two are rules and instructions for the trek

Followed by the words to the seven hymns that will be sung

            And Journal pages 

Sister Hill needs colander or a pot to tie to her apron strings

 Costumes:

Edward Martin: Military leadership signification,

Pioneer period, humble and worn, including old footwear

hats, coats, shawls, and blankets are worn

Jim Bridger: Mountain Man Attire with skins and raccoon cap, can carry ax and or rifle 

Cast clothing is fresh, no aprons, bonnets or hats

Wagon master, Brother Martin: Dressed in pioneer clothing, as are all participants, who are seated on the stumps placed around the risers: (Jim Bridger only is seen in Part two)

 Roll call, of the wagon groups and other business to be accomplished by Brother Martin. 

(At the conclusion of the roll call he begins to address the entire company, the audience becomes part of the Martin Company)

Introduction Brother Martin: Can be cut...

My Dear Brethren and Sisters:

The Saints have been scattered by persecution from Pottawattamie Iowa to St. Louis Missouri and now through the inspiration of our Prophet Joseph Smith we will gather to our mountain home. (Everyone cheers) I am Brother Martin who has been assigned to your company to ensure you reach your destination safely.  I am heartened to see you are all present and prepared to begin our journey tomorrow.  Four Handcart companies have gone before us.  The Ellsworth, McArthur, Bunker and Willie companies are now on the trail and should arrive in the great Salt Lake Valley soon.  I am heartened by the word which has come to me that they have made the majority of the trip with little difficulty. 

Along with Brother Willie, who departed July 15 ...we will be the last group to leave this year.  There are plans for five additional companies in the next few years to be led by Brothers Evans, Robinson, Stoddard, Rowley and Christiansen.  In all we shall be nearly 3,000 souls to journey across the plains pulling handcarts.  I pray we will all complete the journey safely...even though it is late in the season” 

It is prudent at this meeting that I advise you of the order of things.  When you hear the bugle call as you did this evening you shall report immediately to the fire circle area.  No exceptions.  This is the rule and important for organization and accountability for all who are to make this momentous journey. 

Please refer to your Trek Guide Book so you can acquaint yourselves with its important contents.  You should know that many of these hymns were gathered by the Prophet’s wife as a righteous prayer unto God.  It is hoped that until more are composed the songs in this little book will serve to daily inspire and uplift as we march along.  

Several in our company have prepared an opening song, led by Sister Gregory.  You will find it in the book you have all received and can follow along on page three to learn the words and tune and for some it will assist you to learn your new language. 

Song by Chorus:

“Cheer Saints Cheer”, by J.F. Bell 

Chorus:

Cheer, Saints Cheer! We’re bound for peaceful Zion;

Cheer Saints, Cheer! For that free and happy land!

Cheer, Saints, Cheer: we’ll Israel’s God rely on,

We will be led by the power of His right hand! 

 

Long, long in Bab’lon we have liv’d in sorrow,

But God in His mercy hath open’d up our way

“Hope points before, and shows the bright tomorrow,

“Let us forget the darkness of today.” 

 Chorus:

Cheer, Saints Cheer! We’re bound for peaceful Zion;

Cheer Saints, Cheer! For that free and happy land!

Cheer, Saints, Cheer: we’ll Israel’s God rely on,

We will be led by the power of His right hand! 

Come; come away unto the “hill of Zion;”

Come come away to the temple of the Lord

Come ye and hear the roaring of the lion

Where Ephraim’s children tremble at the word 

Chorus: (Third verse left out for time constraints, could begin at 3,4,5)

Cheer, Saints Cheer! We’re bound for peaceful Zion;

Cheer Saints, Cheer! For that free and happy land!

Cheer, Saints, Cheer: we’ll Israel’s God rely on,

We will be led by the power of His right hand! 

Away far away to the everlasting mountains

Away far away to the valley of the west

Away far away to yonder gushing fountains

Where all the faithful in latter days are blest 

Chorus:

Cheer, Saints Cheer! We’re bound for peaceful Zion;

Cheer Saints, Cheer! For that free and happy land!

Cheer, Saints, Cheer: we’ll Israel’s God rely on,

We will be led by the power of His right hand! 

Sing; sing aloud the song of adoration

Yea sing aloud for the goodness of our King

Ye who are blest to see this great salvation

Lift up; your voices and make the mountains ring 

Chorus:

Cheer, Saints Cheer! We’re bound for peaceful Zion;

Cheer Saints, Cheer! For that free and happy land!

Cheer, Saints, Cheer: we’ll Israel’s God rely on,

We will be led by the power of His right hand! 

Official Part One: Brother Martin:

Since you all have your booklets out at this time I will begin to acquaint you with the “Camp Rules” that you will find in the front of your Trek Guide Book and Journal.  Make sure that you use this journal to record your blessings and trials along your journey and keep it close, so you can refresh yourselves of the regulations for camp decorum should any of you forget. 

Everyone follow along as I review, and those who cannot read, or do not speak English, take heed that we will have classes after supper on Mondays and Wednesdays to help you with your speech. Every five adults will be assigned to a cart and I have also appointed teamsters of carts and captains of tens and twenties who are to report any difficulty or infraction of the rules.  For some it may even be that eight youth will be assigned to a young family.  Also be apprised that there is only one supply wagon for every 15 handcarts so be very frugal in your packing.  Some of these wagons have mules but others will be pulled by Oxen which take a bit of skill to control. If anyone has experience with these beasts please see me after this meeting.  Now Lets Begin!

 

1. First, you shall be called to wake by morning bugle at 5:00 AM (Sunrise).  This is the sounded signal for every man and woman to valiantly arise and attend to their prayers before leaving the sleeping tent.

2.  This will be followed by two hours to cook, eat, and feed any stock you have brought along, tend to any other chores and prepare yourselves for the days travel.

3.  At 7:00 am the camp is to move at the sound of the bugle.

4.  A teamster is a strong man who can handle the stock and know how to handle a gun.  Each assigned teamster is to stay beside his wagon, or cart with a loaded gun or have it at the ready where it can quickly be put into action.

5.  Extra men are to walk opposite a cart with your firearm on your shoulder.

6.  No man may leave his post unless he obtains permission from his commanding officer.   

7.  No one may stray from the train of carts due to the risk of wild animals or Indians, or snakes.

8.  In case of danger or hostile attack we will travel double...that means two abreast or if space permits four carts abreast until the fear has removed itself.  I will give that order to my captains of tens, fifties and hundreds. 

9.  When asked by a leader of equal or higher rank to accomplish a task or to assist another, you are to respond with immediate compliance.

10.  Travel is to be silent, or at the very least with little noise.  Keep voices down, no running, or horse play is permissible at any time.  Reverence is the rule of the day.  Mothers do your best to quiet your infants.

11.  Ev’en-time, after the dinner meal we will move one mile past our dead fires before we put up our tents.

12.  The order of encampment is to be a circle with the handle of the cart to the outside, wheel to wheel for protection.

13. Tents will be pitched, and stock tied in the center of the circle. 

14. After the bugle has sounded at 8 and a half p.m. or in the case of a threat the captains will silently direct you to evening prayers, you will have ½ hour before you are required to retire.

15. You are to maintain still and quiet throughout the night, so we do not attract the attention of Indian or beast.

16.  Men assigned to night guard are to remain alert as the safety of the company will be in your hands. 

Because of announcements by missionaries overseas and in the Millennial Star, many of you have sacrificed friends, family, and your familiar homeland as you’ve strived to join the saints in Zion.  Many have already experienced a difficult journey from your homes of Switzerland, Ireland, Scandinavia, Armenia, Wales, and England.  Our journey, this part of your journey to join the saints will commence further from this Council Bluffs outfitting place.

The report from your ship captains was that you left a favorable impression.  You were said to be orderly and clean, and those who sailed in my ship, I already know were of exemplary conduct.  You all need to maintain this behavior if we are to have a safe journey.  

To those of you who have signed agreements or made your mark on a contract to use the Perpetual Emigration Fund, I have been instructed by Brother Brigham to review your financial obligation. Brother Walters, who is my immediate captain, will read the agreement. 

Brother Walters: (clears throat and reads from document)

“We do severally and jointly promise and bind ourselves to continue with and obey the instructions of the agent (that would be, Brother Martin) appointed to superintend our passage thither that we will receipt for our passages previous to arriving in Utah we will hold ourselves our time and our labor subject to the appropriation for the Perpetual Emigrating Fund Company until the full cost of our emigration is paid with interest.” 

(Nods at Brother Martin and sits down) 

Brother Martin:

Thank you, Brother Walters...When the Emigration fund was first announced at General Conference in 1849, $5,000 was immediately donated to assist Saints wishing to gather to Zion. Later when Heber C Kimball, Counselor to President Young made another appeal as the 13th General Epistle, he spoke of a letter from his son serving a mission in England, stating that many in Europe were starving to death.  He said “How can we in the midst of our luxury, enjoying the blessings of the Lord see our own Brethren so afflicted, and not enlarge this fund?  So, be mindful that you honor your agreement and pay it back with a generous increase as soon as possible so that others may enjoy the benefit of this inspired plan of assistance.

(Looks around to find sisters)

Sisters Mary Bathgate, and Isabella Park both had need of the fund... will you Ladies please tell us of your journey from England? (Both sisters come forward)

 Sister Bathgate:

My friend and I heard the missionaries in our tiny English country hamlet.  We recognized the truth of their words immediately, Didn’t we Bella (looks over at Isabella who nods) and were forthwith baptized.  Being widows we were without family or script but we could both sew quite well so made kid-gloves and sold them to obtain most of the money we needed for travel, but for a certain portion we requested to use the fund.  

Sister Park:

We had need of the Emigration fund for we were afraid if we waited too long, we would never see Zion since we are both over 60 years old and are not as spry as in the past. 

Sister Bathgate: (interrupts)

Speak for yourself! (Gives crusty look)

We bid farewell to our homeland and sailed with over 500 other saints on the good Ship “Enoch Train”.  After six weeks on the ocean cooking our own meals and with little space to sleep we docked in Boston in early May.  Since our arrival we have traveled by way of train, steamer and walked some of the way to arrive at this place.  (Pause, sigh)  

Sister Park:

Elder John Taylor of the Quorum of the twelve apostles boarded our boat before we sailed, quite a handsome man may I say... 

Sister Bathgate: Don’t be so forward Isabelle. 

Sister Park: No harm in looking Mary, Well.... this fine figure of a man asked God to bless us for a safe journey so you are all lucky to travel with us as we have been promised we will see the great valley at the end of our journey. 

 Sister Bathgate: We crossed the Mississippi river in a small boat and then continued on in a train of boxcars that had no seats so we sat on our baggage.  We had no room to lie down at night and on the boat we did not have sufficient blankets to keep us warm, so we both held one of the children in our lap and that served us well to keep away the cold.  (Firmly) We have used our last bit of money to purchase two tightly woven wool blankets for this...the last of our journey. 

Sister Park: That is not quite true Mary as we have set aside the $5 required for our handcart and would like to hand it to Brother Walters, (gestures to Brother Walters) the craftsman who so generously made it for us.  (Brother Walters comes forward to accept the money, Bella is entranced) 

Sister Bathgate: (Pulls Bella back from following Brother Walters)

We are strong women and plan to walk the entire way so...do not think we will slow down the train as we have the wind of the Lord at our backs and the gospel to guide us. 

Sister Park:  Do you think he has more than a few wives?  (Elbowed by Mary) Shhhhh...

(Mary is trying to maintain her dignity, but underneath her denial is looking for a man)

 Brother Martin: Thank you, sisters Mary and Isabella for sharing your, (clears throat)...inspiring testimonies. 

Brothers and Sisters, we should rejoice in the inspiration of our Prophet Brigham Young to use these hand carts because our travel will not be hampered by the slowness of oxen or time lost searching for missing animals as in the earlier covered wagon companies.  Parley Pratt said a family of five needed three yoke of oxen, two cows, two beef cattle and three sheep.  The extra time required to travel with so much livestock has contributed to much illness and fatigue. Also, many items needed for travel are now very costly because of the gold-rush and we can conserve our resources by using these handcarts.  Another blessing is that there will be few animals to tempt the Indians so we should not need to devote as much care in guarding our company.  This will save energy for the labor of pulling our carts.  And each day we shall grow stronger and stronger.  With handcart travel we should encounter no delays, well... unless the weather changes, or there is an early winter in the mountains, but there has not been a severe winter in many years. 

Along the way, each cart will take its turn leading the company so as to divide the chore of breaking the road.  Scouts will ride ahead to look out the route and assure our safety.   

The trail we travel should be a good hard road, packed by those who have gone before us. 

Be advised, we will not follow the Oregon Trail because we do not want to encounter those travelers from Missouri or Illinois going west for gold, who would have cause to give us trouble.  They seek temporal riches.  Ours are of the spirit.  I have a testimony that our gold will be found in our new mountain home and the freedom we will enjoy to build our Temple and worship as we please. 

Brother Kirkar Sarkis: (stands up with hat in hand...shy, wife and his brother also stand)

Brother Martin I have a question regarding the taking of turns leading the company?  My wife and I have come afar from Armenia with my younger brother Arshak who was to help me to pull the cart but now has a crippled leg.  My dear wife Arick is with child.  I will be needing to do all the chores myself and pull the wagon carrying both my wife and my brother as neither can walk alone for very far.  I do not think we will ever be ready to lead the company and break the road as you just avowed.  I must tread alone most all the way and know my toil shall be too slow to lead and even worry that we will always be the last and breath of chocking dust throughout the day.  If it is a requirement to lead, as much as I wish, I...we...could fulfill this request, then I fear to slow us all ‘til fall has passed and winter well begun. 

Sister Arick Sarkis: It is wretchedly true, Brother Martin, that Arshak joining us was to lighten my husbands load but now encumbers us and this because Arshak went to help another family.  

Brother Martin: Dearest Brother and Sister, each individual, family and cart is to do its part to the ability it may, for some it will be a little, and for others more.  I testify it is a joy to wear the workers’ seal and have a strong back to lend a hand for others...Of your turn to lead, do not be troubled, if you cannot meet this chore, I will gladly take your turn Brother Sarkis that you may care for your family. 

Brother Arshak Sarkis: I thank you Brother Martin as I have been much troubled that my affliction would hinder us from reaching the great valley. When we heard Elders Pierce and Taylor speak of the gospel and the gathering to Zion, we knew we needed to join the Saints.  We three have left our family and all we know behind. And then I broke my leg helping to build a cabin in Nauvoo and soon after we had to flee for fear of our lives so my leg has never healed up quite right, but my faith remains strong as I look about and see many in this company who already have offered help. 

Brother Martin: Now...are there any other questions about the journey as I have explained things so far? 

Brother Charles Gregory, (This couple has been whispering and both stand) Brother Charles Gregory here, and my wife Mary, We came from Ireland where it is green and moist most the time.  We have heard that the prairie lands of the Great Plains we must pass beyond to reach our new home is dry as a bone and without a tree.  

Sister Gregory: Yes...and how am I to cook without wood for fuel? 

Brother Martin: (raises voice to reach all) To all you sisters who are worried you will have no wood to heat your water or cook your Johnny cakes you are not to give this a thought. 

Brother Gregory, You are correct in that the grass is short and cannot be used for fuel...but we will pass through buffalo country where I can stand upon my cart and see more than ten thousand of these beasts...the meat is very sweet and as tender as veal, it can be dried in the parched heat of the day, and makes the best jerky I have ever tasted...but more than that, the dry buffalo dung that many call chips, can be found everywhere, makes a very good hot fire, adds no flavor to your food, and has no odor to speak of.

 Brother Joseph Henry Roberts: Unless you step in it when it’s still wet! (Slaps leg, laughs, others join in) 

Sister Sarah Egan:  (raises hand and quickly  stands) Is it true we must cross the Platt River over 100 times...I can’t swim? 

Brother Joseph Henry Roberts: Oh Sister Egan, there’s no need to fret...I have been to the Platt, The Platt river is a mile wide, but only an inch deep, it will not even wet the top of your socks...it is a strange bit of water...too thin to plough and too thick to drink.  (The company laughs at his comment) 

Brother Martin: All right everyone let us refrain from such jocularity, this is a serious meeting, and you must hear much more information before the bugle sounds for the train to move in the morning.  

It is fortuitous that Brother Archer Walters, (pats him on shoulder) here is traveling with this company and is a carpenter from England.  He has helped to build the 146 carts we will be using and can show us how to grease the axels to smooth the way.  He will tell us of the care and repair of our handcarts.  Brother Walters, will you tell us about yourself and how to care for the carts you crafted for this Martin Handcart Company? 

Brother Walters: Surely, Brother Martin, All My wife and five children have become acquainted with these two fine ladies and most of the others in this company also, as nearly all of us made sail on the ship Enoch Train.  Since we have arrived here in winter quarters I have not stopped working, turning wheels and showing others how to assemble the carts.  (Raises his voice and speaks to the group) 

Now that you have reached this outfitting point you will need to care for and pack your cart. 

All carts are the width of a wide track wagon, about 3 feet; it has a thimbles axle, with about a

2½ inch shoulder and 1 inch point.  The box is 4 feet long with side and end pieces eight inches high.  As directed by President Young, it is made of hickory wood without a particle of iron, with wheels made of Hard Hack wood, hooped and turned on a lathe, made strong and light.  We have taken care to mortise the spokes and they are rounded to prevent sand from gathering.  The cost has been kept low at the charge of $5 as there is no need for planing or polishing.  

The wheelwrights have taken care to select good dry timber however, since we leave so late in the season the best wood is gone and some of the carts are made with green, soft wood, because we have not had the time to dry it out sufficiently.  For that I am much aggrieved as I know some of the carts may be weaker than others.  (Take deep breath) 

When you have been assigned your cart you may wish to sew a strip of ticking across the bars on the bed of the cart to protect your goods and not rip your bags of flour.  Sisters Park and Bathgate have offered their sewing talents (giggle) and can assist you to sew a canvas protective sun cover if you have the money for yardage.  Running along each side of the bed is a seven foot pull shaft ending with a three foot crossbar used to push or pull your 60 pound cart.  Keep the hubs well oiled, and make sure to keep dirt, and sand from the spokes or it will wear them down like sandpaper.  Doing this our handcarts will serve us well.  (Nods at Brother Martin, and sits back down) 

Sister Emily Hill: Brother Martin, since my sister Julia and I Sailed with you on the ship “Thornton”, you are well aware we apprenticed ourselves to a milliner in Northampton to escape our parent’s opposition to our joining the church.  We came from very comfortable circumstance in our home of Wiltshire England but have consecrated ourselves to the church ever since we heard the strong testimony of the divine mission of the prophet Joseph Smith.  We would be pleased also to help anyone with sewing or darning.  We will help with any task you ask of us.   

Brother Martin: Thank you Sister Hill for your willing hands...now; to go on, each adult may have 17 pounds of baggage including clothing bedding and utensils.  Only one change of clothing is needed.  I recommend you dispense with any wooden chests or heavy items as the cart can only carry 250 pounds of provisions.  There will be a weigh-in tomorrow at 6 AM and please remember to present your Trek Guide Book along with your provisions to the company clerk as part of your weight allotment unless of course you carry it in your pocket. 

Sister Parks: (Sister Parks jumps up again) Since you said that about carrying things...I know we can only have 17 pounds in the cart but if we carry something in a pocket or put it in a pack on our back...is that permissible Brother Martin? 

Brother Martin: Why yes, that is permissible, but don’t forget you will be pulling your cart and to have loaded pockets or a heavy pack on your back will make your journey all the more difficult.  And...Just make sure you don’t sneak something back in your cart as they may be re-weighed along the way to assure you have not over-burdened the teamster who will be assigned to assist you sisters. 

Sister Parks: Ohhh Mary, did you hear that we’ll be assigned a TEAMSTER. 

Sister Bathgate: Shhh Bella, you are beginning to sound desperate. 

Brother Martin: Now let’s continue with our instructions... (Clears throat) As you know there are five adults assigned to each wagon and five wagons to each sleep tent.  If you have not seen the tents yet, you will observe they are supported in the center by one stake and are of a round construction.  The twenty in your tent are to sleep with your feet to the tent pole and your heads to the outside, much like the spokes of the wheels that will carry us to Zion. 

We pray that our hearts and our burdens will be light but we know along the way we may have need to be uplifted so before we continue on with our business I would like Brother McAllister to come up and tell us about the song he has composed to cheer us on our way.   

Brother J.D.T. McAllister: (Nervous, excited) Hello my dear brothers and sisters. I am so full of joy to be leaving to the mountains with this fine company.  I am a native of Delaware and responded to the words of the missionaries soon after I heard them speak at a town meeting.  (Sisters Parks and Bathgate lean forward)

I came here to gather to Zion, and hopefully to find a YOUNG bride of similar interests who shares my faith. (Looks away from the sisters as they appear much too interested, the sisters then sit back disappointed) My talent is to be musically inclined.  I have played in a brass band and performed in dramatic roles, I look forward to the day that I can play or sing at the Tabernacle that has been planned for our city of refuge in the valley, high in the mountains.  

I have been here at this outfitting point helping the first emigrants prepare for their handcart trek.  At first I was chosen to lead the second handcart company but was later made commissary and Brother McArthur is now taking my place leading that company to Zion.  It is my hope that this little tune will lift us all when we are weary and in need of encouragement.  It has been included in your Trek Guide Book pg. # 4, so you can join in...

I am happy to say that several of our company has learned it to show how spirited it can be...

Sister Gregory, and those who have already learned this tune please come forward and help us get started. 

Chorus sings: (Spirited, lively, the group is enjoying themselves)

“Handcart Song”  (some verses may be cut) 

Ye saints that dwell on Europe’s shore Prepare yourselves with many more

To leave behind your native land, for sure God’s judgments are at hand 

Prepare to cross the stormy main Before you do the Valley gain

And with faithful make a start To cross the plains in your handcart. 

For some must push and some must pull As we go marching up the hill

So merrily on the way we go Until we reach the Valley Oh! 

The land that boasts of liberty; You ne’re again may wish to see

While poor men toil to earn their bread; And rich men are much better fed, 

And people boast of their great light; You see they are as dark as night

And from them you must make a start; To cross the plains with your handcarts 

But some will say it is too bad; The Saints upon their feet to pad

And more than that to push a load; As they go marching up the road. 

We say this is Jehovah’s plan. To gather out the best of men

And women too, for none but they; Will ever gather in this way 

As on the way the carts are hurled; T’would very much surprise the world

To see the old and feeble dame; Lending her hand to push the same 

The young girls they will dance and sing; The young men happier than a king

The children they will laugh and play; Their strength increasing day by day 

But ere before the valley gained; We will be met upon the plains

With music sweet and friends so dear; And fresh supplies our hearts to cheer 

Then with the music and the song; How cheerfully we’ll march along

So thankfully you make a start; To cross the plains with your hand carts. 

When we get there amongst the rest; Industrious be and we’ll be blessed

And in our chambers be shut in; While judgment cleanse the earth from sin 

For we’ll we know it will be so; God’s servants spoke it long ago

And tell us it’s high time to start; To cross the plains with our handcarts 

Brother Martin: Thank you all for that rousing rendition and I hope we’ll gain strength from that happy little tune... (As chorus leaves...shakes hands, slaps on backs, in thanks)

Now...before we leave this resting place for our 1,300 mile trek, I feel inspired to share with you some of my impressions and experiences... 

Our dear Prophet Joseph, long before he died, had discussed moving the church to the west and away from opposition. He made a request for protection from mob violence to President Martin Van Buren.  His request was rejected by these words, ”Your cause is just, but I can do nothing for you”.  Joseph asked for direction from the Lord and knew the church must move away from others to survive. 

 In 1842 he shared his foreknowledge of the trek west when he said, “The saints will continue to suffer much affliction yet and will be driven to the Rocky Mountains.  Many will leave the church, others will be put to death by our persecutors or lose their lives in consequences of exposure or disease but many will live to build cities and see the Saints become a mighty people in the midst of the Rocky Mountains, where the devil cannot dig us out!” 

Brigham Young later received a vision of Joseph Smith showing him a mountain and an ensign banner upon its peak saying “Build under the point where the colors fall and you will prosper and have peace.”  This vivid picture has guided the Prophet to our place of refuge 

I was there during the advance company arrival in Utah on July 24^th 1847 when Brigham Young was in his wagon ill from mountain fever and looked upon the great valley basin from the mouth of Emigration Canyon.  From his resting place he asked that the wagon be turned sideways so he could look out across the expanse...then, after some time of meditation, He said to Wilford Woodruff who was driving his carriage, “I am satisfied with the appearance of the valley as a resting place for the Saints, It is enough. This is the right place...drive on!” 

Latter Day Saints are bound in our faith to fulfill the prophecy to make the valley seen in that vision blossom as a rose.  As your leader I am charged with the duty to help you reach that destination.  Our journey may be one of trials, so to lift any sorrow and lighten burdens, I have seen that a special song be added to our guide book. We are fortunate to have traveling with us Brother William Clayton who wrote this song at the direction of President Young himself.  “Brother, if you please... would you come and tell us about yourself and the hymn you wrote”. 

Brother Clayton:

Well Brother Martin, I’m a native of Lancashire England.  Missionaries, Heber C. Kimball and Orson Hyde were preaching in our little town in 1837 when I was 24 years old.  I immediately recognized the truth in their words.  I read the book of Mormon and soon after that I was baptized, ordained to the priesthood and set apart as a missionary.  

I closed up my business and devoted myself to missionary work in Manchester and soon had a branch congregation of 240 members.  I immigrated to America in 1840, sailing on the ship North America to New York. I first located on the banks of the Mississippi River and became clerk of the high council of Iowa.  I was blessed to serve and have as a dear friend the Prophet Joseph Smith.  I was sad to leave Nauvoo in 1846 because I played with the Nauvoo Brass band but President Young wanted me in his company so I became one of the original pioneers to cross the Mormon trail.  

I plan to form the Salt Lake Theatre Orchestra and hope that some in this company are musically inclined as I can always use a few more violins and wind instruments.  I am most proud that I have been given responsibility for many church dealings, and consider myself a man of integrity.    

As I said, I first crossed the plains in the company of President Young along with Brother Martin.  When the journey progressed, many were sick with mountain fever and President Young was feeling great anxiety. We were 43 days out and camped at Locust creek near the Iowa-Missouri state line when I got news that my wife who was left behind in Nauvoo had given birth to a healthy boy. ( Mary and Belle  give moan determining that he already has a wife) At the same time there were increased murmurings in the camp of Israel,  Brother Young said to me “Brother Clayton, I want you to write a hymn that the people can sing at their campfires, in the evening, something that will give them succor and support, and help them to fight the many troubles and trials of the journey.  

I withdrew, and within two hours returned with the hymn “Come, Come Ye Saints”. The tune is of English origin and was called “All is well”.  But I gave it a new meaning and tailored it to fit the wearying hardships, unfaltering faith and unconquerable spirit of the Pioneers who were making the trip to the Salt Lake Valley. I can truly testify that the speed with which I was able to arrange the music and words I know that I was under the favor and inspiration of the Lord. 

Song “Come, Come ye Saints” is led by Brother Clayton 

Who sings first verse alone; cast joins in for second verse

Chorus joins in for third,

Then Brother Clayton begins to lead and all audience invited to join in.

Come, come ye Saints, no toil nor labor fear, But with joy wend your way                                                      though hard to you this journey may appear, Grace shall be as your day.                                                  Tis better for for us to strive, Our useless cares from us to drive,                                                          Do this, and joy your hearts will swell—All is well! All is well!

Why should we mourn or think our lot is hard? ’Tis not so; all is right!
Why should we think to earn a great reward, if we now shun the fight?

Why should we think to earn a great reward, If we now shun the fight?
Gird up your loins, fresh courage take, Our God will never us forsake;
and soon we’ll have this tale to tell—All is well! All is well!

We’ll find the place which God for us prepared; Far away in the West;
where none shall come to hurt or make afraid; there the Saints will be blest.

We’ll make the air with music ring, Shout praises to our God and King;
above the rest these words we’ll tell—All is well! All is well!

And should we die before our journeys through, Happy day! All is well!
We then are free from toil and sorrow too, with the just we shall dwell

. But if our lives are spared again To see the Saints their rest obtain
O how we’ll make this chorus swell—All is well, all is well!

 Brother Clayton: I had a story told to me just a fortnight ago...It so happened that in the second hand cart company one of the brethren was ill with fever.  That evening some of the other men attended to his part of camp duties to allow him rest.  After supper this very sick man sat down before the camp-fire on a large rock and sang in a very faint but sweet voice the song I wrote “Come come ye saints”.  For some reason, even though usually whatever song is started by one, others join in... No one joined in...He sang the hymn alone.  The next morning he was found dead in his wagon. After we buried him we thought of the stone he was sitting on the night before when he sang. So we rolled the stone over to the grave and set it in place as his headstone.  That incident reinforced the custom of all previous wagon trains and hand cart companies that whenever a person begins the “all is well” song, anyone who is in hearing distance joins in.  On this trek I would like to suggest that as a way of giving support and encouragement, if anyone starts this song we all join in.  It is not intricate or difficult to learn and Emma Smith has been so kind as to include it in her book.

Brother Martin:

Thank you Brother Clayton, I believe that is a good suggestion you have given and will support your proposal to have all members of the company join in, as possible, when another starts this song of faith and trial.

 Now, I believe this has been enough of rules and instruction we are already passed when the second bugle should call, so we must make haste to have our prayer song and then our Martin Company of Saints will meet here bright and early on the morrow at the sound of the Bugle. 

Cast:   (during lament, last note of lead in is held, all have heads bowed in prayer while the one                speaking raises head, and looks up...when done, the head goes immediately down) 

“Evening Prayer”

Oh Lord

We thank the for our lives, And for the great blessing

Of the hand cart company Bless us

And give us joy in our labors

 Sister Bathgate: (spoken) Lord please bless our handcarts. And our boots that they will both make it to Salt Lake. We are thankful for our comforts. For tents and food

 Sister Gregory (spoken)I have never seen a buffalo chip but; I am sure it makes a very nice fire

We are thankful for our leader Brother Martin And we ask the to bless him

Brother Walters (spoken) Give Brother Martin, faith and strength and wisdom.  And help us to be mindful of all the rules.

 Sister Egan (spoken) Instead of putting them in my bag to be weighed. I am going to wear my two extra dresses and three petticoats. Help us to remember that; All are thy children, And equal in thy sight

 Brother Roberts (spoken Pleases assign me as teamster to the pretty Hill sisters;                                    And not those worn out old crones. And forgive those who have used; All handcart dry wood,. Ahh; hemm leaving us only the greeeeen

Truths' Truth’s standard would unfold. Her light should there attract the gaze;                                                            of all the world in latter days. 

His house shall there be reared (Cast joins in) His glory to display. And people shall be heard                                  In distant lands to say,

We’ll now go up and serve the Lord. Obey his truth and learn his word

 

For there we shall be taught; The law that will go forth

With truth and wisdom fraught; To govern all the earth

Forever there His ways, we’ll tread And save ourselves with all our dead

 

Then hail to Deseret (all company invited to join in)

A refuge for the good; And safety for the great. If they but understood 

That God with Plagues will shake the world,. Till all its thrones shall down be hurled

 

In Deseret doth truth; Rear up its royal head. Though nations may oppose; Still wider it shall spread

Yet, truth and justice love and grace. In Deseret find ample place.

Part Two:

Brother Clayton: 

Brother Martin, I have some glad news...as we move toward our Deseret we have been able to travel very steadily on the packed trail and even the ones we break and pack ourselves...I am glad to say I have been able to tally the miles traveled and keep a record by counting rotations of a wagon wheel.  In this way have I have crafted an odometer.  It is a geared device with graduated cogs to measure miles...I used the design of Elder Orson Pratt and Brother Appleton Harmon helped me construct it from a feed box and scraps of iron. I’ve attached it to a wagon axel and hope to write a trail guide to assist others who may make this journey behind us. 

Brother Martin:

Thank you for that report Brother Clayton and now we have a pressing need to review some of the rules of our company that seem to have been neglected.  Brother Gregory, please... 

Brother Gregory:

I need to remind all captains, you are to look after everything in general and to see that you keep track of your portion of provisions and assist in all that would aid for the betterment of the company.  You are to dole out the daily flour in allotments of one pint for each person, no! (Corrects himself) we are down to ½ pint for adults and half that for children and make sure to equalize as much as possible all labor. If we are to make a safe journey we must all abide by the rules most perfectly.  

Brother Martin:

And to all, make certain that no one abuses any animal, hog, ox, or cow.  No one is to be up late at night, and all fires are to be out and cold before the light is gone from the sky. I must remind you to be careful to evoke no loud noise, nor yell, nor cry out and abide by our agreed upon Martin company motto that “Faith, Obedience, Mutual Support and Joyfulness” are to be the guide in all things if we are to be  assured of reaching Zion. 

Sister Bathgate:

I do not wish to complain, but it is difficult to be joyful all the time as I have cared for 38 souls with dysentery, fever and whooping cough, 26 of which have joined our Dear Brother Joseph in the heavens.  Also we had Henry Walker who was killed by lightning during yesterday’s storm.

But I do need to report that I, once again have had my faith strengthened and this through the power of a Priesthood blessing I received after a rattle snake bit my leg, and I thank Brother McArthur for rebuking the influence of the poison that was in my body and for cutting the wound with a pocket knife and sucking out the bad blood.  Although, I must admit that I had to ride in the cart for two days but now am beginning to feel my full strength return.  

 Sister Park: 

I too have found the bitter and the sweet in our trials.  Mary and I have assisted with the birthing of eight healthy infants, but I am sad to report that four other wee ones suffered demise within the womb and two mothers also, have joined their babes.  

Sister Bathgate: (trying to remain positive)

But don’t forget Anna Marie Sorenson from Scandinavia who, while we were at Wood River retired from the camp and under some willows gave birth to her little girl.  She wrapped the baby in her apron and returned to pull her hand cart in the morning...and both are doing quite well. 

Sister Park: 

That is true, we have experienced great blessings as well as sorrows, and Brother Martin, I too wish to thank the Priesthood for an anointing and blessing and also Brother Leonard who pulled me out from under the hind wheel of one of the supply wagons that passed over both my hips, and then over my ankles as the oxen would not come to a stop...I fell down under the wagon when trying to help Mary after her rattlesnake mishap.  The wagon was with such a load as to be pulled by four oxen, which is why they were difficult to halt... There must have had two tons of goods in the box, yet not a bone in my body was broken and I know this is due to the blessing I received and the faith of many in this company.  After the anointing I was quite sore, but full able to walk and even pull my cart, and did not need to ride for even one hour.

Great thanks to the Priesthood and the Elders of Israel. 

(Men begin to sing spontaneously as if in thanks led by Brother Gregory)

Men’s Chorus and Men in Cast Sing: 

“Ye Elders of Israel” by Cyrus H Wheelock       

Ye elders of Israel, come join now with me; And seek out the righteous where’er they may be:

In desert, on mountain on land or on sea. And bring them to Zion and pure and the free

 O Babylon O Babylon we bid thee farewell. Were going to the mountains of Ephraim to dwell 

The harvest is great and the laborers are few. But if were united we all things can do

Well gather the wheat from the midst of the tares. And bring them from bondage from sorrows and snares

 

We’ll go to the poor like our Captain of old. And visit the weary the hungry and cold

We’ll cheer up their hearts with the news that he bore. And point them to Zion and life evermore 

Brother Walters: (complaining)

I love that song, I have friends on the sailing ship George Washington who sung that very song on April 11, 1857 as they left England and many on that voyage have already endured this trek and are happily in Zion.  Now... Brother Martin, I do have a worry, I’m a carpenter.  I make chairs, and build houses, and wagons and carts, but we were only out from Council Bluffs a few weeks before my skill was needed to craft a tiny coffin.  My cart repair duties have been set aside for the making of the many coffins needed, and soon we shall have no timber left with which to give respect to our dead.  Why the Elliker family from Zurich Switzerland has had four of their numbers succumb to illness and just days ago Konrad the oldest boy of 16 sat by a stream to rest for a bit and was never seen again.  Soon we won’t even have enough wood from the worn out poorly crafted carts to make containers to lay our companions and children to heavenly rest. 

Sister Egan: (Whining)

The mosquitoes are huge, they certainly gave me a very hearty welcome...And the children are getting unruly and frequently misbehave! We have so many that are traveling without a parent or a relative to take responsibility.  Yesterday Ellen Perks loaded up a cart full of little ones and babies.  Oh, I think she was well intentioned, wanted to give the mothers a break.  They were rolling along singing and laughing...such a pretty sight.  But at the last river crossing while waiting in line for help to cross she took the cart into the shade under the reeds and fell asleep along with the children.   When they awoke, all the babies were soiled, hungry and crying.  It wasn’t until we were gathering chips when several of the mothers became alarmed because their children were no where to be found. We were getting together a search party when we saw them coming over the rise...Well I don’t think that young lady has ever gotten such a tongue lashing...Humph...unruly that’s what their becoming. 

Brother McAllister: (Joining in...Whining)

It has been so cold that I awoke this morning with my hair frozen to the tent.  And we break the ice from our buckets to wash. We need to find more food for our children.  None of us can survive on but 1/4 pound of flour as it has now been cut.  Forget the chips! Such a scant amount of flour makes a gruel so thin it is useless to try and cook...so we must drink it and the children are calling it skilly.  Some of their little stomachs reject a supper cooked in water taken from a buffalo wallow. 

Brother Roberts:

We are all hungry, but most of all it is hard for me to see the children so thin and endure this hard travel with so meager a ration.  It takes away any little strength they have.  Just yesterday I found my brother Brigham Henry Roberts in the molasses barrel.  The lad only wanted to ride in the cart for a bit as he was near exhaustion but knew it was “agin” the rules so not wanting to be found out sneaked into a barrel he thought was empty.   Brigie told me he was surprised to discover the barrel still had several inches of the sticky stuff inside and when the sulphur of the molasses stung his little cracked feet he let out nary a cry as he was too weak and sunk to the bottom with no strength to climb out again.  It was not until the next morning when he was missing from roll call that I found him all cramped from such a tight space, and his trousers will remain heavy from the stuff and stuck to him until we find a stream that is not ice cold where he can bathe. 

Sister Gregory: (Sniffs)

I want to remind us all of something that Jens Neilson said after he gave all he had to the church save the money for his cart that “Obedience is more righteous than Sacrifice”.  (Scowls at Brother Roberts) And I need to report that we do have some extra clothing in the furnishings wagon that was turned into the company supply after the last weigh-in (Clears throat looks at Sister Egan) for any who may have a need of pants or a shirt.  I will set aside some trousers to cut down for little Michael Jensen, Brother Walters, and. (turns to Brother Roberts) I think I have another pair that can replace the sticky ones your brother has been wearing. 

Sister Emily Hill: (positive)

It does seem amazing that some very slim persons became quite stout (giggles) with the many layers of coats and petticoats they wore so as not to have the extra clothing put on the scale.  However, we all must remember that putting this extra load in our already weak carts will not help when we must cross the last of the sandy bogs.  Now if you do as Sister Jones and tie your colander or extra pots to your apron strings and carry this extra weight yourselves Brother Martin has said it is permissible.  (Shows bag or cooking item tied to her apron strings) 

Sister Egan: (sheepishly)

Ummm, Maybe some people have thin blood and need more clothing Sister Hill.  Anyway, our trip would have been much easier if half our men had not been conscripted into the Mormon Battalion.  How can we have our strength so weakened by the Government who did nothing to help us from the persecution of the mobs?  For this purpose we have left the Colonies and fled to find safety. Why should we help them now?   My husband would be here to help pull this cart instead of my 8 year old son Ryan, if My Howard had not gone to California to fight the Mexican war. And I don’t know if he will ever return. 

Brother Martin:

Sister Egan, We have been promised by Brigham Young that none of our men who have gone to help the United States in their conflict will be harmed. 

Sister Sarkis:

What we need to do is increase our prayers, remember when we were near starved to death and the gold-rush party went by us going to Pikes’ Peak?  That night we joined in prayer for food, and ah, fasting was not optional...The Lord must have heard our prayers and touched the heart of the wagon master because after they went past us they killed a buffalo and a day later we found it by the side of the road with a notice on the hide that read, “This is for the handcarts”.  I know if it were not for that bit of meat I would have lost my child. 

Brother Kirkar Sarkis, (nods and agrees)

Yes more prayer is good.  I have increased the length of my morning prayers, hmmm, (finally connecting) maybe that’s why we are always last in line... but (cheerful) my strength is increasing also...especially now that our baby is born. (Looks lovingly at Arick) 

Brother Arshak Sarkis,

I too have increased my prayers.  And my leg is beginning to heal, and I can even pull the cart a bit to give my brother a rest. 

Jim Bridger: (Enters and drops down a bag, or pack, or some skins)

Howdy there folks, Jim Bridger here... jest passing by and heard you were camped here on your journey to the high valley and that there were several ladies in need of a gentleman’s company. (He tips hat, looks around, ladies are not sure to be interested or not...he is dressed like a mountain man)  I thought to give report of the Company of settlers and the Battalion of your men I met at Pueblo, and again at Fort Bridger.  Some needed a place to stay last winter as they marched to California and they accepted my direction to go South with me and about 15 of my mountain men. (Continues to look around at the young ladies)  All are well and healthy...(others are not sure if he is talking of the Battalion or the young ladies) In fact there was a man called Brother Egan who said his family traveled with a handcart company,  and traded two rifles for 19 buckskins, and 3 elks, for the making of shoes he said. (Not getting any looks from the young ladies...he sees the older sisters who are now leaning forward and fixing their hair...he figures “What the heck”, puts out his chest and turns to them) 

Sister Egan:

Ohhh, that must have been my Howard, he was always very good at trading in-kind, and must have realized almost everyone would need shoes when they got to Salt Lake, for the wear on our shoes has truly put holes in them all. (Other sisters share the joy of her news) 

Jim Bridger:

I believe he did speak of making shoes for his children and others of this company, and to give the soft leather to some olderrr...(stops self)...More Mature sisters to make some gloves for his bride. 

Sister Parks:

That must be us Mary. (Giggles, puts head down fiddles with apron) 

Jim Bridger:

I know you folks plan to join up with the ones already in the Salt Lake Valley, but take my advice.  I have traveled the west over, know the land and conditions.  I was the first white man to see the great salt lake and the valley beyond and I can tell you the valley you are going to will not grow corn or any other crop.  The dirt is full of salt, it starves all plant growth, and the early frost will kill everything that has a shoot above the ground and some that are below.  There are locusts that seem to know when your crops are ready for harvest and will swoop down to devour them in hardly a day, leaving you more hungry than you are right now.   Brother Moses Harris may tell you to come to Weber Valley, but without a good irrigation system...nothing will grow. 

I am of the opinion that you should pass right by that valley and go on to California the land of plenty. Yerba Buena, to the north has a fine port, the soil is rich and the winters so mild you can grow your crops year round.  I am so sure that no one will be able to harvest a crop that I have a bag of gold for anyone who can harvest a full bushel and then have one of these lovely ladies (points to older sisters, who giggle) cook me a bit of corn bread from it, for I don’t believe it will ever be done and I know my gold is safe. (Pats pocket) 

Brother Martin:

Mr. Bridger, our plan is to follow the prophet and if he goes no further than the mountain valley then neither will we.  Right now I look over my company and see their faces sun burnt, footsore and their lips parched, but there is cheerfulness in every heart and joy beams from their countenance.   You see before you the builders of a nation, Shovelers, plowers, sowers and reapers, machinists architects, masons and woodworkers, organ builders, mathematicians, and many men of letters who have gathered from the four corners of the earth in answer to the call from our Prophet to gather.  

See over there those two very young sisters who have left their parents to travel over the seas and this vast land to start a new life in Zion. 

And over there those children huddled together traveling alone...with the parents waiting and trusting they will be shepherded to them safely by others. 

And here two sisters who have left all they have know, who have made this difficult trek in the winter of their lives hoping to hear the words of their prophet. 

And there a large family who lost four of their number in one week...with not one word of complaint that they regret their choice to join this trek. 

And this courageous little family from Armenia with their loyalty, integrity, and devotion who travel in a cart with cracks in the bed of the wagon and hubs of the wheels which break daily and who are last in line each day and must bear dense clouds of dust the others before them on the trail have stirred into the air...The dirt fills their eyes, and ears...dense and suffocating, and they never see the blue heavens.  Yet I only hear them speak of joy and hope 

Mr. Bridger, I’m sure your advice is well meant but I doubt you will persuade any to abandon the quest they have sacrificed so much to accomplish.  

Lone voice begins. Others one by one sing then others form a choir.

Come, Come Ye Saints...           

Come, come ye Saints, no toil nor labor fear, but with joy wend your way                                        though hard to you this journey may appear, Grace shall be as your day.

’Tis better far for us to strive, Our useless cares from us to drive,
Do this, and joy your hearts will swell—All is well! All is well!

Why should we mourn or think our lot is hard?’Tis not so; all is right!
Why should we think to earn a great reward, if we now shun the fight?

Why should we think to earn a great reward, If we now shun the fight?
Gird up your loins, fresh courage take, Our God will never us forsake;
and soon we’ll have this tale to tell—All is well! All is well!

We’ll find the place which God for us prepared, Far away in the West;
where none shall come to hurt or make afraid; there the Saints will be blest.

We’ll make the air with music ring, Shout praises to our God and King;
above the rest these words we’ll tell—All is well! All is well!

And should we die before our journeys through, happy day! All is well!
We then are free from toil and sorrow too, with the just we shall dwell

 But if our lives are spared again To see the Saints their rest obtain
O how we’ll make this chorus swell—All is well, all is well!

Chorus goes back to audience and cast gather to kneel for Prayer, Brother Martin adlibs,

Cast: (during lament, last note of lead in is held, all have heads bowed in prayer while the one speaking raises head, and looks up...when done, head goes immediately down)

“Evening Prayer”Oh Lord, We thank the for our lives, And for the great blessing,                                   Of the hand cart company; Bless us and give us joy in our labors

 Sister Park (spoken): I am grateful my knees, Are getting stronger But it sure would be nice                                      To find a man along the way. We are thankful for our comforts, For carts and tents and food

Sister Bathgate (spoken: Though it is clear that a stout, Woman such as I should get A bigger allotment of flour, Than that skinny Sister Egan; We are thankful for our dear Prophet;And we ask the to bless him

Brother Martin (spoken) I pray for strength of Samson. The courage of Helaman And the wisdom of Solomon, Help us to be mindful of all the rules.

Brother McAllister (Spoken) Though it is clear that I should have Been made captain of fifty instead of just ten. Help us to remember that We are All are thy children And equal in thy sight

 Sister Egan (spoken) Though it does seem unfair that all the teamsters Are running to help those Hill sisters.When I could use some help too...                                                                                           Forgive those who have been Unfaithful in their labors and Trifling their time awaaaaay

Brother Clayton (spoken)Like Brother McAllister                                                                  

Sister Hill (spoken) Like Sister Gregory

Sister Gregory (spoken) Like Sister Egan

Brother Walters (spoken) Like Brother Roberts

 Brother Roberts: Like those Sarkis brothers

Amen

 

 

Part. Three  (All participants clothing is ragged and worn, women have shawls, men blankets)

Bugle sounds to gather participants and audience

Roll call begun by Brother Walters, assisted by Brothers McAllister and Gregory 

Brother Martin: (weary)

Before we have reports let us have our handcart song, I truly need a bit of cheer

All cast chorus and audience are invited to sing Handcarts:

Sister Gregory gathers up choir (song may be abbreviated) and;

Chorus sings: (Spirited, lively, the group is trying to enjoy themselves)

“Handcart Song” Led by Sister Gregory 

Ye saints that dwell on Europe’s shore. Prepare yourselves with many more

To leave behind your native land, for sure. God’s judgments are at hand

Prepare to cross the stormy main. Before you do the Valley gain

And with faithful make a start. To cross the plains in your handcart.

 For some must push and some must pull As we go marching up the hill

So merrily on the way we go. Until we reach the Valley Oh!

 The land that boasts of liberty. You ne’re again may wish to see

While poor men toil to earn their bread. And rich men are much better fed,

And people boast of their great light. You see they are as dark as night

And from them you must make a start. To cross the plains with your handcarts

 But some will say it is too bad. The Saints upon their feet to pad

And more than that to push a load. As they go marching up the road. 

We say this is Jehovah’s plan, To gather out the best of men

And women too, for none but they; Will ever gather in this way

As on the way the carts are hurled; T’would very much surprise the world 

To see the old and feeble dame. Lending her hand to push the same

The young girls they will dance and sing; The young men happier than a king

The children they will laugh and play; Their strength increasing day by day

 But ere before the valley gained; We will be met upon the plains

With music sweet and friends so dear; And fresh supplies our hearts to cheer

 Then with the music and the song; How cheerfully we’ll march along

So thankfully you make a start. To cross the plains with your hand carts.

 When we get there amongst the rest; Industrious be and we’ll be blessed

And in our chambers be shut in; While judgment cleanse the earth from sin

 For we’ll we know it will be so; God’s servants spoke it long ago

And tell us it’s high time to start; To cross the plains with our handcarts

 Brother Martin: “Reports Please”

 Brother Walters: From the supply wagons, there is no food to keep track of, so no report sir.

 Brother McAllister: Each death weakens our forces, and I cannot raise enough men in my hundred who have the strength to pitch a tent, so many are sleeping under carts and wagons to stay out of the snow. The ground is frozen, so even if there was the strength to dig graves, it would be impossible. Those that perish are wrapped in cloth and placed in crevices which we cover with stones to prevent animal desecration. 

Sister Egan: Brother Martin, of the health or our company; we began with 500 and 366 remain.  That number includes the 14 births and those that perished to this day of October 20th, the year of or Lord 1856.  Of those who have gone to heavenly rest, most have suffered exposure, dysentery, and cholera as the cause of their demise.  However, there is a positive; Now that there are no supplies in the furnishings wagon there is room to carry the sick and the dying. 

Sister Bathgate:And the dead....

Sister Egan: (Tries to be cheery) ...so the Oxen can travel quite fast now.

 Brother Walters: President, I don’t think we can continue...the pass here is blocked by snow and ice, After the last river crossing and the Platt filled with lumps of ice many of the children have frozen feet.  We have been without water for several days.  Just snow water.  Sister Egan, I have news that four more died last night so your records need to be amended.  Surely the temperature has been at least 15 below zero every night for the last few days.  This is the right name for this pass...Devil’s gate.

 Brother Gregory: Jens Nielson has both feet frozen and asked his wife to leave him by the side of the trail...I heard him beg her to save her life and keep up with the company.  Their son Neils was one of the ones we left in that shallow grave two days ago. She refused to leave her husband by the trail too, and she put him in their cart vowing to pull him over the mountain.  She has made it over Rocky Ridge by herself though she is at the end of the company with the Sarkis cart.  I believe that only her undaunting courage is keeping her going as it cannot be food for the flour was gone three days ago.

Sister Emily Hill: How can she do that? She is barely 4 ft tall and he is well over six feet...Oh My!

Brother Martin: The Lord encourages us. No!  he pushes us to walk by faith to the edge of the light and beyond into the unknown...this is a trial of our faith.  He once again shines the light ahead of us and our journey of faith and courage continues in every footstep we take.  Heavenly Father never said it would be easy.  Many have upbraided us along the way and said our plight is a curse upon us and the few cattle that remain are so lean they have not enough fat to make a bar of soap, but I say the promise of our prophet is that Utah will produce a richer crop of hay and alfalfa than Illinois or Missouri can do.  And we will always have enough salt that is for sure.  (A few try to laugh)

 Sister Bathgate: We cannot go back or move forward either, the snow is now so deep we cannot move our carts, we have no food, and we are all so hungry, has the Lord forgotten us? (Comforted by Sister Parks)

 Brothers Clayton, and Roberts: (out of breath) Captain, we have found Mary Goble Pay,

 Brother Roberts: She went down to the spring last night to get her mother a drink of water with Sister Griffiths. (After this scene he leaves to bring back message of rescue)

 Brother Clayton: They were halfway there and found Brother Gates frozen in the snow and Mary was sent back for help because they couldn’t pick him up, he was frozen so stiff and would soon die.

 Brother McAllister: Sister Griffiths returned last night and we have been searching for Mary since dawn.  Mary said she lost her way and began to think of the Indians, got frightened and waded around in the thick snow up to her knees all night.  I fear her feet are frozen. 

Sister Egan: Brother McAllister...be careful to put her feet into the water slowly, rub her legs down with loose snow first or the frost will turn to gangrene.  

 Brothers Sister Park: Maybe we better help you...come on Mary; we can’t move our handcart.  This will take your mind off food.

 Sister Bathgate: My stomach thinks my throat has been cut!

 Sister Gregory: Isn’t Sister Pay, her mother, one of the sisters in the wagon?

 Sister Egan: Shhh, I think she’s dead already.

 Sister Emily Hill: Another mother dead in the wagon...and her little girl with frozen feet and legs... Oh how can we bear it. (All sisters try to comfort her, she is crying, but continues) Mary, Isabella, and Sarah, Arick, Mary, and Hannah.  If it were not for you all I would have laid down in this snow and looked up to the Lord and given up, you have lifted me up when I was weary, made me laugh, and wiped my tears.  I have been so blessed to have known you all.  I need to thank you for all you have done and the many kindnesses you have given unselfishly to my sister and I...  (Shyly, pulls a crumpled paper from her pocket) I, have written a poem for you all...and I hope some day, maybe you Brother Clayton or Brother McAllister....or maybe even a sister yet to be born...will write a tune for it, and maybe it can unite other sisters and lighten burdens, and help them to know of the comfort of sisterhood in the gospel.....you know...I can almost hear it...

(Emily Begins: “As Sisters in Zion”, joined in 2^nd and 3^rd verse by cast)

 As sisters in Zion, we’ll all work together; The blessings of God on our labors we’ll seek.                        We’ll build up his kingdom with earnest endeavor; We’ll comfort the weary and strengthen the weak.

(All cast sisters gather round)

The errand of angels is given to women; And this is a gift that, as sisters, we claim:
To do whatsoever is gentle and human,To cheer and to bless in humanity’s name.

How vast is our purpose, how broad is our mission, If we but fulfill it in spirit and deed.
Oh, naught but the Spirit’s divinest tuition;Can give us the wisdom to truly succeed.

Text: Emily H. Woodmansee, 1836–1906 

Brother Kirkar Sarkis: Brother Martin, I know we have been criticized for our decision to leave winter quarters.  I cannot say if we were wise or foolish, but of you captain I have no uncertainty about your direction, heroism or the guidance you have given.  And to those who say we were foolish to leave so late in the year, they need to know this.   It was no mistake we joined you or the others we have traveled with.  I have pulled this wagon when I was so weak and weary from illness and lack of food...all I could think of was to get to the next patch of sand, or hill slope and I have thought...If I can only go that far, and rest but then I look in the handcart and see Arick wincing with pain at the jostling as we go over rocks and Arshak with his twisted leg shielding our baby from the wind and dust and snow and I know I cannot give up. And I get to the top of the hill and feel something pushing from behind.  And I think “Did Arshak get out to help?”  but no! I look back and my eyes see no one.  I knew then that the angels of God were there pushing us.

Brother Arshak Sarkis: We have suffered beyond anything most people can imagine, exposure, cold and starvation, but you will never hear me complain or criticize this decision.  I know more now than ever that the Gospel is true because this trek and this company has given me absolute knowledge that God lives...and I have become very well acquainted with him.

 Sister Arick Sarkis: Are we sorry that we chose to come by handcart?  No. Not now, not ever...The price we pay to become acquainted with our God is a privilege.  I will never regret we have traveled with the Martin Handcart Company and will testify to anyone that asks that this is so. 

Brother and Sister Gregory: (stand) And so say we.

 Sister Hill: (stand)And me also

 Sisters Bathgate and Parks: (stand) And we too!

 Everyone else (stand) And us, and us, we too, and Yes, Yes

 (A lone harmonica begins to play...he walks up to the front...joined by Violin music

Which leads into the last two verses of Come, Come Ye Saints...)

 

“Come Come ye Saints”: slide show

Started by cast, then chorus

Others join in and audience encouraged to join, careful not to block digital slideshow (if used)

Come, come ye Saints, no toil nor labor fear, But with joy wend your way

Though hard to you this journey may appear, Grace shall be as your day.

’Tis better far for us to strive, Our useless cares from us to drive,
Do this, and joy your hearts will swell—All is well! All is well!

Why should we mourn or think our lot is hard? ’Tis not so; all is right!
Why should we think to earn a great reward, if we now shun the fight?

Why should we think to earn a great reward, If we now shun the fight?
Gird up your loins, fresh courage take, Our God will never us forsake;
and soon we’ll have this tale to tell—All is well! All is well!

We’ll find the place which God for us prepared Far away in the West;
where none shall come to hurt or make afraid; there the Saints will be blest.

We’ll make the air with music ring, Shout praises to our God and King;
above the rest these words we’ll tell—All is well! All is well!

And should we die before our journeys through, happy day! All is well!
We then are free from toil and sorrow too, with the just we shall dwell

 But if our lives are spared again To see the Saints their rest obtain
O how we’ll make this chorus swell—All is well, all is well!

Brother Roberts:  (running in)

Rescuers, are coming, they’re coming, I saw them shoveling the pass, and packing the snow with their horses.  And there are Mules and at least 20 wagons loaded with food and clothing. (Everyone cheers) 

Behind the food are wagons to carry the sick and provisions such that you have never seen.  Brigham Young learned of our desperate need and told everyone that their brethren would be apt to perish or suffer extremely if they did not send assistance.  He told the Bishops, not to wait until tomorrow or the next day.  

I spoke with Brothers George Grant, Robert Burton, and Harvey Cluff who were of the first through the pass.  They said to take the lower road and thus be protected from the storm by the thick reeds along the Sweetwater...and Sisters...he tells of 12 tons of flour, and meat, 40 strongmen come with 60 spans of horses and mules with harness, stretchers and chains.  “Go and bring the people from the plains, otherwise your faith will be vain.” This was their charge and they came...we are saved.”

 Sisters Bathgate and Parks: (Looking off to the distance) Oh Look! Look, there they are we can see them, 

 Sister Parks: Look at all those men!

 Sister Hill: Oh look at the leader; he is so handsome, He’s just like I saw my dreams...my goodness, sometimes dreams and hopes do come true.  Oh we made it. We really truly have made it.!

Cast and Chorus:  Now Let us Rejoice

Now let us rejoice in the day of salvation. No longer as strangers on earth need we roam.
Good tidings are sounding to us and each nation, And shortly the hour of redemption will come,
When all that was promised the Saints will be given, And none will molest them from morn until ev’n,
And earth will appear as the Garden of Eden, And Jesus will say to all Israel, “Come home.”

We’ll love one another and never dissemble But cease to do evil and ever be one.
And when the ungodly are fearing and tremble, We’ll watch for the day when the Savior will come,
When all that was promised the Saints will be given, And none will molest them from morn until ev’n,
And earth will appear as the Garden of Eden, And Jesus will say to all Israel, “Come home.”

In faith we’ll rely on the arm of Jehovah to guide thru these last days of trouble and gloom,
and after the scourges and harvest are over, we’ll rise with the just when the Savior doth come.
Then all that was promised the Saints will be given, And they will be crown’d with the angels of heav’n,
And earth will appear as the Garden of Eden, And Christ and his people will ever be one.                          Text: William W. Phelps, 1792–1872. In the first LDS hymnbook, 1835.Music: Henry Tucker, ca. 1863

Brother Martin: Brethren, and Sisters;   We have made the mightiest trek that history records since Israel’s flight from Egypt, as we watch the sun set below the mountains, shining on the glistening snow that somehow is not so cold anymore; our journey comes close to its end. I want none of you to ever forget that you were among the bravest souls to reach Zion, Zion, beautiful Zion, City of our God.   Cast:  “Evening Prayer”

Oh Lord,  We thank the for our lives And for the great blessing

Of the hand cart company Thank you for the joy of our labors                                  

Brothers Kirkar & Arshak Sarkis: We are triumphant in our victory and thank thee for our rescue

We are thankful for our comforts For releasing us from despair                                                         

Sister Bathgate (spoken)I thought I was starving and now we have more than we need...                                     

Sister Park (spoken) Do you think I could convert that nice Mr. Bridger?

We are thankful for our dear Prophet And we ask thee to bless him

Brother Roberts (spoken) Such an inspired man to know of our need. My testimony has grown ten fold

Help us to not forget this lesson in faith

Brother McAllister (Spoken) Forgive me that I ever doubted we would complete our journey

Help us to remember that We are all thy children; Equal in thy sight       

Sister Egan (spoken) I have heard of the United Order And would like to go if the prophet calls

Lord, forgive us who have been Doubtful that you loved us; Or the Holy Ghost would guide us:               

Brother Walters (spoken) You gave us faith.

Sister Hill (spoken)You gave us patience. 

 Brother Clayton (spoken)You gave us hope

 Sister Sarkis (spoken)You showed us love

 Brother, Sister Gregory (spoken) You taught us charity

 Brother Martin You gave us courage

 All, You taught us to endure, we felt your comfort and love.

Amen 

References

 “Book of Mormon, Seminary Lessons”, Unit 7 Week 4

Hafen L.R., Hafen A. W., “Handcarts to Zion”, The Story of a Unique Western Migration 1856-          1860, The Arthur H. Clark Company Glendale, California 1981

Kelly, M. “And They Shall be Gathered”, General Board of Mutual Improvement Associations of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 1969

Madsen S. A., “I walked to Zion”, Deseret Book Company Salt Lake City Utah, 1994

Pyper’s G.D. Stories of Latter-day Saint Hymns

 Articles Retrieved from LDS. Org. April 14, 2007

Clark, R.C., “Classic Discourses General Authorities: To Them of the last Wagon”, New Era, July 1997

Ballard, M.R. “Faith in Every Footstep”, Ensign, November 1996

Dekker, L., “Some Must Push and Some Must Pull”, Ensign, July 2006

Hartley, W. G., “Gathering the Dispersed Nauvoo Saints”, 1847-1852, Ensign July 1997

Walker N.R. “They walked 1,300 Miles”, Ensign, July 2000

Personal Journal of Julia Hill-Ivins

Why did I write this Readers Theater Presentation?                                                                          Well, I was asked to write "something" about the pioneer handcart treks that took place in 1847-52 by our Stake President. He said, "During a meeting with the leaders of our youth pioneer handcart treck, they asked me to find someone to write about the hardships that took place during the treks to get to the promised valley. They suggested it be something that could be told or performed as an evening devotional during the three nights the youth would be pulling handcarts and camping on a trail. 

"When is the trek?" I asked. 

"It will be in two weeks from this coming weekend," I was told.

My head began to spin with all that I had coming up along with the logistics of putting together people who could help tell the story. 

I had a School Board conference to attend over the weekend, and work and family stuff, so a bit reluctantly responded "Okay, yeah I can do it." That night I prayed for assistance in writing a script that would be entertaining and help the youth understand the hardships the handcart pioneers endured.

That weekend was the conference in San Francisco but instead of clothing, most of my suitcase was full of books about handcart companies. I wanted the presentation to be authentic but also entertaining.  

A reader's theater with only one or two rehearsals was the idea the popped into my head.  

I went to the planned school presentations at the conference but instead of networking or eating out with other Board Members I went back to my room and read and wrote. I did this for three days and returned to Santa Clarita with a completed script. I did not get much sleep that weekend but did not feel tired. It was surreal because I felt as if the handcart pioneers were pushing and assisting me to accurately tell their story.

 I know I was helped by my heavenly father to complete the presentation in such a short time. Every person I called about participating was available, had pioneer clothing to wear and was excited about the project. It was inspiring to know I could help the youth participating in the trek understand the sacrifice early members of the church suffered so we could enjoy the blessings of the gospel today. (But I know I got help!)