Wed. 22nd [May 21, 1856] We arose soon and I wrote and after breakfast we got our luggage [to] our office in Islington Street and got names signed to the ship and then the luggage to the ship in Bramley Moore Dock and our tickets for our certificates. [At] night I got my certificate for my birth and had a walk in Liverpool, retired to bed.

We came on board in the afternoon and of all the sights that I ever saw, it was the most astonishing. Luggage was piled on a piece of ground in front of the ship to a considerable, and hundreds were busy in getting in their [p.8] luggage. And about half past 10 or 11 I went to bed , where my wife and son already were, but I did not sleep until the noise of talking and laughing had subsided. I then slept better than I had done for some time and awoke refreshed in body and mind, grateful to my Father in Heaven for his blessings and favors.

Thursday 22nd I arose about 6 o’clock and wrote a letter to Sister Jane Gillson and wrote another to my son Christopher. Got my likeness taken and sent it by Elder Noble to my son for Sister Walker. I am writing in the midst of noise from above, beneath and around. It is a truly wonderful sight to see so many on ship board of all ages, sizes, complexions, and shapes. Some appear quite respectable while others appear to be quite poor. One is a poor cripple, another walks with crutches. In the afternoon we got our luggage on board where we slept for the night. I slept well when I got to sleep, but there was some time elapsed before I fell asleep on account of the laughing and talking that went on, on account of the novelty of our new position.

Friday 23rd The day appointed for our sailing. I arose about 4. The seamen were early at work getting the vessel out of dock. At about half past 9, we were getting into the river and before noon we were at anchor opposite Liverpool. We enjoyed ourselves here in getting our food and in passing up and down deck looking at one another and the different vessels that crossed the river. Retired early to rest.

Saturday 24th I arose as usual and attended to the getting washed in water boiling for breakfast, and then spent the day as usual. Wrote letters and spent the day in looking about wishing the time to come when we should set sail.

Sunday 25th I arose as usual and on going on deck, I found the seamen preparing for weighing anchor. The day was beautiful. There was but little wind. The sun shone in its strength and made all things look gay. A little after 9, we were all ordered on deck, about which time the steamtug came alongside bring a number of Saints with Franklin D. Richards. We were all told of in families and passed the doctor and in a while was called together [p.9] and was addressed by Franklin D. Richards in a feeling manner. Also by Elder Wheelock and [-].

May 25th I arose about 4 o’clock this morn, shave and washed and put on my things and sat down. Wrote part of a letter to Sister Walker. Got up and attended to the meeting for prayer. Got breakfast and finished my letter. But before I did so, the steamtugs came. The seamen drew the anchor and away we went. I finished my letter and before I had done, the cry was “all hands on board” and when I got up a grand spectacle presented itself. The Saints was crowding in every place likely to get a view of surrounding objects. We commenced to move about half past 9 and by ten we had got past the houses on one side and those to be seen on the other was at a considerable distance. We passed a many ships and packets as we passed along, and the sailors making the air ring with their songs as [they] worked away at the other end of the vessel. They are calling all by families for what purpose I cannot tell, but appears that we have to pass the inspector. The day continues beautiful as the steam tug takes us along. The scene is truly grand. During the afternoon when about 40 miles out from Liverpool Elder F.[Franklin] D. Richards took his leave of us, and before doing, he addressed us in a very effective manner. He observed that we were chiefly Saints that had been a long time church. Named that a few years ago the first elder came to England and sow the seeds of life that [we] were the crop that were being harvested. That we were going under peculiar circumstances to the valleys of the mountains. A many ships had gone out under peculiar circumstances, under propitious circumstances but none had gone out under circumstances so favorable as those under which we were going out. The captain were one of the best men that goes out of Liverpool, and was willing to indulge us as far as he could, consistent with the regulations of the ship. That some of us had been receiving instructions for 15 years and were now about to put it into practice. But if we would carry out our religion, there should not a soul be lost, nor anyone come to much harm. He urged upon us to act as Saints one towards another and we should [p.10] land safe and be blessed from now to our journey’s end and that the angels should be with us to guard the ship and us. The elements should be controlled in our favor, that the next ship should take all our names to go to the valley before us some months and we should be met by teams From the Valley. After his remarks were concluded, Elder Wheelock offered up prayer, and after a few remarks by him, Elders Hay [Haigh] and Dunbar was called to sing. When all was dismissed, or rather, their remarks were finished, and all settled, the brethren took their leave of us. The tug was unloosed and then we gave them 6 hearty cheers, which was responded to by those on the steamer and away they went and were soon lost to sight. We got tea and I came on deck as the sun declined in the west with scarcely as much wind as would ripple the ocean and as we passed along, the Welsh Mountains were plain to be seen with now and then a vessel in sight. The air is clear, scarcely a cloud is to be seen, while a great expanse of water lies on all hands. All is grand, but solemn. The Saints are singing in groups while the children are frisking about. Some are busy with their books, other with their music, one has just turned out with his fiddle which I am very glad to see for having heard about him, I want [to] hear his abilities. While I write, the Welsh Hills become very visible. Amidst all this grandeur I am not satisfied for I have left my son behind, and my dear Sister Walker, West, Wilkinson, Judson, and Gillson. Oh, what would I give to see them not [now]. God bless them. They are through their evening services, and last Sunday this time our parting was near. The usual time we retire to bed under peculiar circumstances.

Monday 26th I was awoke about 12 o’clock to rouse a number of men to go on guard. And about 1 o’clock we were about ready for and went on duty. I had to act as sergeant, and having put my men on duty, I commenced to walk around to the different posts and the wind blowing briskly. It produced sicknesses and by 3 o’clock I was altogether unfit for duty, but managed to potter on till relieved a little past 4, by which time I had vomited and purged freely. As soon as I could I got to bed and slept and forgot my trouble till [p.11] I awoke and found myself very sick. I continued sick through the day, no desire to move, nor for food, was truly glad when bedtime came. My wife did as well as she could to attend to getting water boiled and was assisted by Sister Amelia Holey and Brother James Lyster [Lister], whose kind services were highly beneficial. After retiring to rest, I slept well and awoke a little better.

Tuesday 27th I arose about 6 o’clock, but felt very queer. My wife brought me breakfast in bed and felt it to do me good. As I lay in bed, I watch the movements and different positions of the some of the Saints. Some were eating like farmers, others were vomiting like drunken men. Some emptying slop pails, others running with boilers and kettles. Some lay in bed sick, others sat and leaned against ought they could find while on deck. The Saints, men, women, and children, lay on deck one against another like pigs. Some could manage to walk about, but staggered like drunken men, while husbands had to paddle and otherwise carry their wives to the privy and other places. Some seemed as if nothing was the matter with them, while others were singing in groups. As to the Saints, there is a great variety. We are from all parts, England, Scotland, Wales, and Germany. We have have [SIC] old men with their grandchildren on board. Quite a many very aged men and women some in spectacles. And generally speaking, the old people take [it] the best. We have quite a number who go with crutches of both sexes. One is a very crooked legged cripple who [-] about and appears to be a little bit deficient in intellect. Some are very stout, straight young men likely to build up Zion. Some are repulsive in appearance, while others are interesting. But none please like those we have left behind. Though I have felt sickly all day, when I moved, yet, I did not vomit. Retired to bed about 10.

Wednesday 28th I arose a little bit before 6. Washed, got warm water, and just as I was about to get breakfast had to muster with the guards but was dismissed till a quarter to 1 o’clock. Came and got breakfast and came on deck and found the ship at a dead calm. The sea smooth with scarcely a ripple on its surface and continued so until about 2 p.m. A little after 1 o’clock, I was [p.12] requested to go on guard so that I might be at liberty at 4 to take tea with Brother Robinson in celebration of his marriage, and complied. About 5, the tea was ready and was taken on boxes, set in a line with a tablecloth on. About 37 sat down together, waited upon by my wife and Brother Robinson’s wife. Amongst the guests was President Martin and his counselors, Evens [Evans] and Wough [Waugh]. After tea, we retired on deck where they went forth in the dance being the humble person who had to do the fiddling and was assisted by a tambourine player. Retired about 10 p.m.

Thursday 29th I arose about 6 o’clock, washed, dressed, and attended prayer meeting. Afterwards I attended to getting water boiled for breakfast. Afterwards walked on deck a little and saw on right hand the elevated portions of Old Ireland. Went below got potatoes then came on deck and found the wind still, the on a gentle ripple and the sun shining beautifully and the Saints basking in the same. I spent the remaining part of the day rather uncomfortably, being given to understand that there was a general holiday throughout England that brought to mind associations of an unpleasant nature. In the evening I took my fiddle on deck to play for the sailors, but was stopped by President Martin, and though mortified was glad to get away from the sailors. Retired to bed at a little to 10 just before the horn was sounded for bed, which was done to the tune of “Cottage in A Wood.” I awoke in the morning out of a dream. I thought that I and Brother Thomas Child and the late Edward Milnes, and Sister Elizabeth Walker were going to emigrate and were about to take our fare on the railway, but Sister Walker being absent, I left the train again and after waiting a while, I thought she came to me through a wood where some masons were working. And as I felt to rejoice in her company, I awoke.

Friday 30th At about six the horn was sounded to the rising to the tune of “The Girl I Left Behind Me” which reminded me of my dream. Dressed, attended to prayer meeting, carried water afterwards, and got breakfast before which I discovered that I had lost my pen holder, which Brother John Brough gave me. During the day the wind gradually rose till night when [p.13] it blew quite a gale which made the ship heave very much and brought on much sickness; so much so that so that [SIC] an aged sister died about 2 o’clock. Just as I was going to bed I felt sick and in vomiting my throat became very sore, which caused me much misery. This day weak. We left the dock and we were only so far that I could see the land in Ireland up to 6 o’clock p.m.

Saturday 31 I awoke about 2 o’clock and the ship was rocking, heaving in a very unpleasant manner. I heard much crying which caused me to think that someone was dead. I got up about six, but felt free from sickness, but had a deal of pain in my throat. I found that the wind had abated but the sea was still on motion with the force that it had acquired. After dressing I carried our water to boil. Attended prayer meeting, and afterwards Elder Broderick administered the ordinance of laying on of hands. Got breakfast and felt a little better afterwards. During the morning Sister Eliza Pears was confined, gave birth to a daughter, which makes the 3rd birth on ship board. Afternoon very fine. Spent a good deal of time with my fiddle. About 5 we got tea, could not eat much, felt rather chilly, and reflecting that it was Saturday night I thought of home and those we left behind which made me sorrowful. After much reasoning with myself I concluded to try to put away my sorrow. After tea we had a good deal of conversation with Sister Wadsworth, our opposite neighbor from Pilling near Barnsley and found her of a nice spirit. Her husband was president over Pilling Branch for 6 years. Also Brother Andrew Taskard [Tasker] and others came to see and chat with us. Had a walk on deck. The night was beautiful and the air, though cool, was moderate still. Retired to bed about ten, at which time the wind was blowing favorably with a stiff breeze and as we retired to rest the ship was rocking which caused many to be sick. I tried to raise my heart in thanksgiving to our Father in Heaven for my state of health, which if not good was better than a many enjoyed. I soon fell asleep and slept well till morn, and found the ship in motion, heaving to and fro.[p.14]

Sunday, June 1st 1856. I awoke out of a dream which pleased me. I thought that I had parted with my friends at Bradford and amongst others I thought of Sister Elizabeth Walker and felt the spirit of poetry come over me and felt to write write [SIC] my feelings of her absence in poetry and I thought it would be well to write my mind and narrate events as they occurred daily. I thought thought [SIC] the place I was in was a beautiful garden. I had not thought long about my dream before the horn sounded for rising. I got up, washed, shaved, dressed, carried my water to fire for breakfast, attended prayer meeting, where a very appropriate prayer was offered by a young man. From here I went for water, got breakfast, and then attended to journal. About eleven, according to announcement, we had a meeting on deck, which was called to order by President Martin in midship. Sung “The Morning Breaks,” prayer by President Martin. Sung “Glorious Things,” then the meeting was addressed by Elders Martin, Evens [Evans], [George P.] Waugh and [Thomas] Broderick, upon the our privileges, duties, and prospects. Meeting dismissed by prayer. Got a little dinner of pickles, onions and gruel, made by Sister [Amelia] Haley and brandied by her. At 3 p.m. I attended our meeting on deck which was opened and addresses was delivered by a number of presidents over wards the last who spoke being Elder Broderick who spoke to edification. Had tea and a little bread and felt much better. Yesterday about 7 o’clock Sister Eliza Pear’s child died and the old woman who died in the morning was launched into the deep through the porthole without any ceremony. Attended prayer meeting and retired to rest about 10 o’clock. A brother died about 7 o’clock, he came on board very ill. He was thrown into his watery grave after we got to bed. The wind was blowing the ship on at a brisk rate when we went to bed and made a many sick.

Monday 2nd I arose before six and just as the horn was sounding. Got water, attended meeting, got water, up for breakfast and after waiting a couple of hours got tea with my wife and John and others on deck. We made but little progress during the day which was fine, but cool at times. Very little sickness. Had dinner of broiled beef, potatoes, pudding with preserves in which [p.15] Brother [Andrew] Taskard [Tasker] gave us, that is the pudding. I enjoyed it much. In the afternoon I spent much time in getting two cakes baked which made us a good drinking. After tea I spent a good deal of time with my fiddle and enjoyed myself much better than formerly, retired to bed about ten. Attended to prayer meeting. Nothing passed of any note except that we had a good wind all day. After much patience in waiting I got some potatoes boiled which with some Porte I had got frizzled and an excellent dinner. Between 2 and 3 p.m. Elder Thomas B. Broderick called us together in the capacity of a fellowship meeting, which was attended by a many, some from other wards. President Broderick made some good remarks, he called on Elder J. [John] B. Pears, who spoke a short time. Elder [George B.] Waugh and others spoke as did counselor Elder Martin Heaven who spoke highly of our charity and blessed us in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Meeting closed about 4 o’clock. Attended to tea and did not go out much afterwards. Spent some time in fiddling, attended to prayer meeting and then to bed.

Tuesday 3rd I arose soon after 5 o’clock, after a good nights sleep. Attended to our daily water, prayer meeting, and breakfast, and had a good walk on deck afterwards. After much patience I got dinner ready and enjoyed our meat, pudding boiled. Had a little sleep after dinner and got on deck and wrote a little of our genealogy, came down and got a good drinking of baked bread. After tea we had much fun in seeing the ship toss on another about by rocking like a cradle. Men men [SIC], women and children fell on one another. I spent a good portion of time on deck after tea and read a portion of Byron’s Don Juan. About 9 o’clock we had a general meeting in mid-ship which was addressed by Counselor Martin Heaven and President Martin in reference to cleaning, being careful of provisions and watching our children lest they should be drowned. After the meeting I went on deck and beheld the new moon and stars of the first magnitude, all was still and beautiful, the air serene and clear with scarcely a cloud to be seen which the broad ocean lay stretched out on all sides, smooth and unruffled. Our noble vessel remained as it had done all day, stationery except for rocking to and fro. While viewing the scene around I [p.16] conversed with a sister who seemed to be a Saint, and was much resigned to her lot. The thought of those we left behind came over one’s mind and produced its effect. I came below, got to bed and in a few minutes was aroused by a crash followed by voices. From what I had learned, some of their beds had broke down, and caused a little confusion, but it was taken patiently and the boards being nailed fast again they went to bed. The ship continued to rock like a cradle and the boards made awful cracks and creaks and before I got to sleep there was another big crash followed by a shout of “Get up! Get up!” I raised my head and put on one side our screen when lo and behold Brother Wadsworth’s berth was filled with boards and bed from the berth over and he was literally fast. A number of brethren came and helped to release them and when those in the upper berths had got up, those in the lower berths was liberated. All was aroused in 12 berths and 11 souls had to have beds made on the floor, 9 in one and 5 in the other, it being unsafe to sleep in the berths again. I felt content when they had got to bed, and in a while fell asleep.

Thursday 5th I arose a little to six and got up the best way I could, seeing I had to stride over a brother who lay in bed at our feet, got water, carried water to boil, attended prayer meeting, got breakfast, got tea and pepper, and attended to other things. At a little to 3 we had a meeting in front of our berths and Elder Broderick preached to us and then unfolded our past, present, and future states and his remarks were truly grand. After meeting got tea and about half past nine retired to bed.

Friday 6th I arose about a quarter to six and attended to my usual duties. During the night we had gone on at a tremendous rate. For some days we had been at a stand still, but yesterday the wind arose and became a good gale before bedtime. This morn we were in high wind and continued all day. The ship leaned on one side which made it hard to walk. After tea the wind blew quite a gale, it looked to us like a storm. The ship went at the rate of 11 miles an hour and blew so strong that it tore one sail right up from the bottom [p.17] to top. For fear of something worse all of the crew was ordered to work to fold up some and to reef others, which gave us a grand opportunity to see the activity of sailors in climbing the ropes and their daring in going to the top gallant and amidst all the wind and wet to perch at the end of the sail yards. There was as high as 24 up at a time. Providentially no harm happened and about 9 o’clock I went to bed, expecting to be called up at 12 a.m. but the brethren tried to manage without disturbing me.

Saturday 7th I arose a little to six as did my wife and found we had a calm. I got my rice on stove, got my days water but missed the prayer meeting with looking after my rice. Got breakfast and went on deck. Nothing of any particular note occurred during the day except our ship was becalmed till towards night, then a gentle breeze arose which increased to a nice wind and continues through the night. As night drew on it brought to remembrance the Saints at Bradford and the interesting times we had for a long time on Saturday. Truly amidst my great blessing privileges, I could not help feeling sorrowful at the thoughts of being separated. I spent a good portion of time on deck. The night was beautiful and serene but cool. I attended to the prayer meeting, went on deck again til near ten, then came to bed and slept well till 2 in the morning.

Sunday 8th I arose between 5 and 6, shaved, washed and dressed, got water and carried water for breakfast, went on deck and was pleased with the sight of a brig at a short distance from us bound to America, but which we soon left behind. At half past ten, attended meeting on deck. Meeting was opened by some Saints from Manchester. They sang “The Prodigal Son” and after singing, prayer etc. we were addressed by Elders Jaques, Evenans [Evans], Robinson, and others and concluded about 12. Went below, got dinner of cold ash [PROBABLY: hash] and thence went on deck again to a meeting in our ward. When all the 9 wards held meeting at the same time, commencing about 2 and continued till 3. I bore testimony. After meeting carried water up for tea. I spent most part of the evening below deck but went up about 8 o’clock and found the Saints from Manchester singing [p.18] their favorite tunes for the captain. Today we had new regulations. 1st to be allowed to sleep until six in the morning. 2nd to have all off deck at 9 at night, and 3rdly to hold fellowship meetings in every ward during the afternoon of Sunday. The evening was beautiful. Attended prayer meeting about 9 o’clock and then went to bed.

Monday 9th I awoke about 2 o’clock and slept but little till near four. As I lay awake I thought of home and those we had left behind, particularly of Sister Judson who I felt assured was up about then, busy at prayer and reading her lessons. I arose about six, got dressed and water on the stove, read a little of Byron’s Don Juan. Came below for prayer meeting, got breakfast of biscuits and preserves of Damsels given us by Brother Redman, who little knows how much that gift has ministered to our comfort. I ask Thee, oh Father in Heaven, to bless him and those that ministered to our present comfort, even Sister Mary Swain, Tabitha West, Elizabeth Walker, Jane Gillson, Rosehanneh Knowles, Nancy Judson, Elizabeth Lee and Mr. and Mrs. Briggs, Brother Joseph Walker and Brother Benjamin Judson. May their cups overflow with blessings even as they have blessed us. I ask it in the name of Jesus, Amen. During the morning the wind gradually increased. About half past twelve got a good dinner of rice soup. We got some porking and bread backed this morning. Got tea late and went on duty at 6 p.m. and remained till 9 during which time I saw many queer scenes arising from the ship rocking with the wind for the wind had increased so much that the seamen had to furl and reef sails. Sometimes the waves would come over and drench quite a number of persons. A few were lamed by being driven against pieces of wood with great violence. At half past 8 the Saints were ordered to their berths. Near 10 o’clock I retired to bed which was rendered uncomfortable by the ship heaving and rocking and by leaning on one side so that our feet was higher than our head. The winds grew louder and the waves roared like a mighty blast, but notwithstanding I fell asleep, [p.19] after commending myself and my family to God.

Tuesday 10th A little after 12 a.m. I was awoke by a loud noise which sounded as though something was thrown on deck with great force and while thinking about it I was startled by the horrid and awful of “Fire! Fire!” by a man near our berth. This so alarmed some that they gave a scream and quite a number got up, amongst others was Elder F. O. Robinson who at once ordered all to bed. The idea of a fire really sounded awful for I believe the report sounded terrible and felt that I could like to get up but being counseled to lay still I did so. So soon as the first alarm had subsided I thought I had to go to Zion so felt composed. Our fears happily were soon removed by being assured by the guard that there was no fire but that a sail had been torn in ribbons. Not withstanding our fears of fire was gone, I could not sleep for hours and awful indeed was the sound of the wind and wake. The ship rocked like a cradle, the boards creaked as if coming from together. The officers of the ship were shouting to the seamen to furl sails. The seamen was running to and fro hauling the ropes and singing their usual songs all the while and this continued until I was overpowered between foul and fine. Slept till about 6 when the horn sounded and I got up rejoicing that it was morn and that we were spared to see it. The wind had abated, the sea was not so alarming nor was the ship too restless although it was so much so as to render it very difficult to stand and I had all our tins to keep roped. I went on deck and fell. Came down, got water with difficulty, went to privy with my wife and lost my feet again while keeping the door shut with my back while down I got hold of a rope and but for which I do not know where I should have gone. Got breakfast and spent much of the morning on deck. Got dinner past one of ash [PROBABLY: hash] and about half past two attended a meeting where we had useful advice given about preventing fire and so on. Got tea a little after five, and spent a portion of time at my journal and a part on deck watching the sailors take up sails and prepare for an expected gale. [p.20] Attended prayer and thence to bed.

Wed. 11th I arose about six after a very agreeable nights repose although I was kept awake much with coughing. The hilt of the ship was just that, that felt agreeable. I dressed and got my water up for breakfast and loitered about till dinner which we took about 12, of boiled beef and potatoes. Our ship made but little progress because the wind was against us. We baked a large parkin and two cakes and got tea a little after five. This evening I learned from President that we had not gone one half our journey as yet which gave me much grief. I spent some time in fiddling, a little on deck in listening to the Manchester Saints sing some of their favorite pieces for the captain. From here I came and spent a little time in cook house and thence to prayer meeting and then to bed and soon fell asleep.

Thursday 12th I arose about six, washed, carried water up for breakfast, attended prayer meeting, had a better sing in consequence of Wadsworth striking the tune. Got water for the day, vessel comparatively still. Got breakfast after 8 o’clock and then attended to journal. Wadsworths [Wadsworth] and others are very busy putting their tent covers together. Dined off ash [PROBABLY: hash]. The wind got up and went at the rate of 11 miles an hour. I went on guard at 2 came off at 5 p.m. The seas run high and came on me and others in spray. Got tea and spent the evening agreeably. Attended prayer meeting and got to bed before ten.

Friday 13th I arose before six and carried some pork to render, fetched water and attended prayer meeting and offered up prayer. Got breakfast of rice and spent the morning in looking after and in preparing dinner, and got the same a little past 12. Had beef, pork and potatoes to the same. Wind still as air increased a little before dinner, and blew brisk at night. Got a comfortable drinking a little after four and about 7 o’clock was sent for on deck to fiddle for a party of dancers and went and played with a tambourine and a clarinet players. Came down in a short time and played at our berth. Went on deck afterwards. Was at the prayer meeting and thence to bed while [p.21] the ship lay so that our feet was as high as our head.

Saturday 13th [14th] I arose a little to six and worked, carried up my rice, came and shaved, thence on deck, brought our rice and got a good breakfast. I got up with pain in my inside and was purged. Got a good dinner of ash [PROBABLY: hash] which was ready before 12. The day is fine with a good wind. The day passed but not without feeling that it was Saturday and that we had left those behind with whom I use to spend some agreeable hours. It is indeed hard to be parted from dear friends. The sight was lovely with scarce a breath of air. The ship was completely becalmed and lay too. At 8 I went on guard and came off at 11 and felt very ill. Went to bed, but was obliged to get about one in the morning, very much pain.

Sunday 15th I spent most of the morning in the privy till about six o’clock. Carried up our rice and then came and got to bed and slept a little, and a little after 8 had a little breakfast in bed, afterwards was obliged to get up with cramp. Went to privy and spent the remainder of time up to half past ten with the sailors with whom I got information in reference to trade and wages in America and other things. Attended meeting and was highly delighted by remarks by Brodrick [POSSIBLY: Broderick], Martin and Haven. Closed about twelve and came and got dinner. At about 2 p.m. we met in fellowship meeting which was opened by Elder Brodrick [POSSIBLY: Broderick] who gave liberty to speak as the spirit should dictate. Elder Wadsworth bore testimony and said the spirit was in our midst and if we would cultivate we should have a manifestation. Sister Rosehannah Pears bore testimony and spoke in tongues which was interpreted by Elder Tifton [Tipton] viz that every soul should be brought through and go to the Valley inasmuch as we would be faithful. After a few had born testimony Sister Franklin bore testimony and spoke in tongues which was interpreted by Brother Tifton [Tipton]. I bore testimony and felt well. We had a good time. At the close I went for water which was boiling and my wife prepared a good tea. I spent much time on deck after tea and I had the pleasure of seeing two brigs, one of which came so near to us that I could see those on board, particularly the helmsman. [p.22] These two make the fourth vessels that has been seen today. Our captain tried to speak to the ship but could not. We rode gallantly on all day with a point or two out of our way. We went very steady. A many crowded on deck tonight because it was fine. I came below and spent the remainder of the night at my berth and felt so sleepy about 9 that I did not attend prayer meeting but went to bed and soon fell asleep. I suppose they had conference at Bradford. We often spoke about them.

Monday 16 I arose about 5 and washed and changed my shirt, and attended to journal. A few are up and some are washing about their berths. The morn is fine and our ship is going at the rate of 9 knots an hour. I have had a good nights rest and sleep and feel well, for which blessings I thank my Father in Heaven. My wife and John enjoy good health. She frets about Christopher and Sisters Elizabeth Walker and Jane Gillson and Tabitha West and Fanny Holroyd whom we have left behind. What would we give for their company. Fetched our daily water, attended prayer meeting, got breakfast, and assisted my wife in preparing dinner and while cooking, waited on deck till ready . We got a good dinner of boiled beef and potatoes. The afternoon was fine. I spent much time on deck and saw many beautiful shellfish, as we passed rapidly along. We got a good drinking about five and again promenaded on deck. Our ship bore us nicely along in a near course. Attended prayer meeting about 9 and then to bed.

Tuesday 17th I arose about five and washed and dressed, and lay down a little. Carried water up about six, attended to water, fetching, prayer meeting and got to breakfast about 8 o’clock. Afterwards went on deck and found a many seamen watching because of the mist lest we should come in contact with icebergs or fishing vessels and was cautioned not to make noise on deck, so that any word might be passed from forecastle to aft if needful. Ship going at the rate of 8 miles an hour. I did not get any dinner because of neglect to carry up our boiler. Went on deck about dinner time and stayed till about 2 p.m. I then came down and attended a meeting in our ward which [p.23] was truly a good one. Elder Brodrick [POSSIBLY: Broderick] gave us some good instructions. Meeting closed a little after four and I then went for our drinking water which I got and then our tea. We learned from captain that we had traveled 600 miles in 3 days and we have only 800 miles to Boston. This news gave us joy. Spent a portion of the evening at my berth and afterwards, roasted a few potatoes, came and attended meeting and got supper and to bed. We passed a few vessels so near to one that we could see the passengers. We had a good wind all day.

Wed. 18th I arose about 5 o’clock. Washed, shaved, carried up water and in due time made pottage. Got breakfast and missed prayer meeting in attending to breakfast, not knowing that the ward had met. Got our water, and assisted my wife in paring potatoes. Carried up some some [SIC] pork pork [SIC], but could not have it attended. We saw several ships or vessels with fish, which indicated that we were on the banks of Newfoundland. Got a good dinner of ash [PROBABLY: hash] about 12 and went on deck afterwards and watched the fishing vessels which lay in the distance. I saw four at once. Got tea about half past 3 and afterwards signed our hands to our promissory note to refund our emigration monies. We have had strong mists at times today which has gone away and returned again, but this evening is clear and beautiful. The wind has shifted a little and is very low, which has caused the seamen to chain ship or shift sails, which [had] not been shifted since sometime last week. Our berth being near to portholes, one on either side of the ship, which lets in air and light, causes a many to resort here to sew and sonon [UNCLEAR] and there being rather more room the children make a playground of it. Amongst others who are here, sewing tent covers is Sister Brodrick and a young woman who cleaves close to her. In looking down the gangway or passage on either side of our berths it looks like a long bazaar. Some are eating, some preparing food, some reading, others passing to to [SIC] and fro, one making a bed. It is one continued scene of bustle from morn to night. But amidst all this bustle and jostling together we do not hear one cross word, but all moves on like clockwork, such is our [p.24] lot, but how are our dear brothers and sisters at Bradford. It is their fair, and a busy time, and we may be forgot, but I hope not. Oh Father in Heaven may events be so controled that we may soon meet again in Zion. This grant I ask in the name of Jesus, Amen.

I understand there is a party in the young men’s hospital celebrating 2 marriages which has just taken place. The young men just named were only having a social meeting. Attended prayer meeting and retired to bed a little after 9 o’clock.

Thursday 19th I arose a little to six. Got dressed, washed, carried water up and soon had breakfast. Attended to meeting, fetched water and walked out on deck, saw the mast top of the ship and 2 other vessels. The morning very fine, but not going in our course. Dined soon of ash [POSSIBLY hash]. After dinner I spent some time in watching a vessel pass, which came so near as to see all on board and to hear one speak to our captain which is the first since we have left the channel, we have spoke. Got tea soon and enjoyed my biscuit better than formerly. Wrote parts of a letter to Christopher, and left it to see a vessel pass which came so near as to hear them give a cheer, which we returned with interest. They sent out a boat manned with two persons, which brought a good supply of codfish which the captain bought and gave us 7 of them. This being done the boat got back again and dusk came on. I came below, attended meeting and got to bed. A child 3 weeks old was lowered into its watery bed.

Friday 20th I arose about half past five. Washed, dressed, carried up water, and soon had it down and got breakfast. Fetched water, attended prayer meeting. Saw a vessel at a great distance. The morning being fine, I spent a good portion of time on deck. Got dinner in good time and spent the afternoon on deck, got tea about four and spent a good portion of time in writing a letter to Christopher. I attended prayer meeting about 9 and then retired to bed.

Saturday 21st I was awaked about a quarter to 3 and about 3 was placed on guard with Elder John Peel and remained till six. The wind blew unfavourable. [p.25] The first and second mate quarreled. My wife got up and carried up water for breakfast and I assisted her in siding things and she washed the floor. I fetched water and attended prayer meeting and got breakfast. My wife buttoned or fastened the top uke [UNCLEAR] of her gown, a thing she has not been able to do for many years. The air is very cold and unfavorable. Boiled beef and pudding. Brother Taskard [PROBABLY: Andrew Tasker] furnished us with preserves. I spent a good deal of time on deck. Got a good drink of pudding and tea. At nightfall a 3 masted ship passed us for Boston which we signaled. It left Liverpool 5 days before us. Attended prayer meeting, and was glad to get to bed.

Sunday 22nd I arose about 5. Washed, shaved, carried up water for breakfast and found an unpleasant morning. Very foggy, got breakfast, fetched water and went on deck. Attended meeting at half past ten, which was addressed by Brothers Havens, Waugh, Broderick, and President Martin. They thought it might be the last meeting on ship board on a Sunday on deck. Elder [John] Toone also spoke a short time and begged we would not get intoxicating drinks. Meeting closed a little past 12. Came and got dinner and went on deck again where I remained until about 2. Came, attended meeting, felt well, bore testimony, closed about four and carried water up for tea which we got after 5. The night was very foggy and unpleasant. Attended meeting at 9 and was glad to go to bed.

Monday 23rd I arose a little after 5, washed and wrote a little. Carried water up and found morning fine. A good wind, ship near its course, morning fine. Spent much time in looking after dinner, dined near 2 and at 5 our ward sat down to a grand tea drinking. Tables were made of boxes set in rows and reached the entire length of the ward. Elder Brodrick [Broderick], our president was the promoter of it and he got up in good style. The tea was put in the copper in the cook house and was brought down in large cans and turned into our cans and pots. The cooks took in our bread and baked it the first. We had a good tea. Afterwards there was a social party. The Saints recited and sang and kept up the interest of the meeting till past 9 o’clock. Not feeling to relish the idea of staying below, I went on deck and spent the evening [p.26] on the forecastle viewing the great waters and declining sun as he hastened to and set behind his watery bed. The air was clear, but cool, a few clouds were gathered to the west and more fantastically shaped and illuminated by the rays of the setting sun. I came down at 9 o’clock and found the tea meeting had not broken up. Got to bed near ten.

Tuesday 24th I was roused up about 12 o’clock at night, to go on guard and stayed till 3 o’clock. Morn was grand the moon shone bright and the sky was lit up by Venus the morning star, and others of the first magnitude. The wind being brisk and favorable we went at a brisk rate, which was cheering to think of. A little after 3 I went to bed and slept well till near six and found my wife up, who had carried up our breakfast water. I fetched water, and attended breakfast. After breakfast I went on deck and saw a vessel in the distance, and came and assisted my wife to repack our boxes, and finished after dinner. Day fine and wind favorable wind. Got a good tea and went on the forecastle where I stayed till 8 o’clock, about which time I watched a ship pass or we passed it after seeing it before us all day. We were so close to it that I could see persons walking about on the quarter-deck. I came below, attended meeting and got to bed a little after 9.

Wednesday 25th I arose before five o’clock after a good night’s rest being awoke by a rumbling noise which shook the ship. I looked out of bed and the first object that presented itself was Brother Wadsworth in bed looking through his telescope at the ocean which he could see through the porthole. I got up looked down the hatchway into the lower deck and saw that they were getting provisions from the hold and was rolling them to the aft of the ship. No wind, no motion of vessel, scarcely going a few knots per hour and the sea as smooth as glass almost. My wife is up, I have washed and shaved and attended to my journal.

Dined about 1 o’clock, and soon after I saw the smoke of a steamer ascending above the horizon which passed behind our ship about 4 o’clock just after I had got my drinking. While passing the emigrants gave us a good cheer which was [p.27] responded to by the Saints with us. Retired to bed a little after nine. There was a tea party in No. 1 Ward.

Thursday 26th I arose a little to six and attended to the usual business. The morn was fine with a strong breeze us. A few ships in sight in the distance and one came close to our bow about one o’clock. We had a strong wind all day in the wrong direction rather. Many vessels was seen today in the distance. I got a good dinner at half past 2 and at 3 was put on guard and came off at 6 p.m. My wife had tea ready which I got and then went on deck where I spent much of the evening. Went to bed a little after nine.

Friday 27th I awoke about four and heard the sailors busy turning sails. Thinking they had cast anchor I got up and found President Martin and others standing in front of the opposite porthole. Brother Franklin came out of bed and in our shirts we watched them bring an old sister on board wrapped in a winding sheet, who had just fallen asleep in death. I retired again to bed. Slept till near six, I then arose, dressed & carried up our water, and looked round on deck, expected to see land but found that we were going the wrong way. Got breakfast and water, attended prayer meeting and then went on deck and saw vessels in the distance one of which hung about a long time and then sent a boat, and the same men took back some letters for Boston. They had been out fishing since April 15th. Got dinner before 12 and got refreshment about 2 again. After attended to my journal. Today has been very fine and warm. Many vessels has been in sight and much seaweed and many other things indicating our near approach to land had been seen. I wrote a portion of a letter to Sister Judson. Attended prayer meeting about 9 and then went to bed.

Saturday 28th I arose about four and looked out of the porthole but could see no land. I went to bed again, and laid till half past 5, washed, shaved, carried up water, and about 7 o’clock I hear a person say he saw land from the first landing on the mast. I ventured up and the 3 of our company to see land for the first time for near 5 weeks. About 9 o’clock we could see land very plain from the ship side of the forecastle. The same Saints seem [p.28] highly pleased with the sight. I feel grateful to my Father in Heaven for his goodness in sparing our lives to see the land of Zion, the land of the free and home of the brave. The land of Joseph’s, choice above all lands. Glory to God in the highest and goodwill to men. I got breakfast after prayer meeting, and then went on deck, and beheld from the ship side the distant hills which indeed appeared lovely to those who have been a long time deprived of the sight of [-]. I stood on the forecastle and with joyous feelings beheld our noble vessel glide rapidly through the yielding waters and bringing us nearer to the sand hills in the distance. About noon we had got opposite the hills which lay on the left side of the ship and in a short time we were opposite Cape Cod Fishery and opposite the Cape Cod Lighthouse. In the neighborhood which was a wind hill and at a short distance from this was a number of houses, the first I had beheld since the channel. We continued our course about a mile or so from the shore and could see one sandbank after another until, I discovered with my small glass, large fields clothed with waving corn and yellowing for the harvest. This sight was truly gladdening to behold. I could see the fences separating field from field. We were all ordered to our berths and having obeyed orders we saw but little of what passed, but though I took off a lock from a box and put on another yet being near our porthole I had a grand chance of seeing village after village as we passed along. We came to a point of land that retired and a great basin was formed, and we could see but the dark mountains in the distance. In a short time we came up with the land again and at this juncture I asked to go out to [-] and got on deck finding a number of Saints up, I thought I had as much right up as anyone so I stayed. For a long way as we went a short distance from one side of the shore while on the other side lay the wide ocean. As we passed along we came opposite village after village with fields interspersed between dotted here and there with trees. Now was a gentle slope inclining to the sea covered with fields, houses here and there, and then an opening beyond which we could see the water as far as we could see. By and by we came to a large [p.29] embankment which we were told was Naval Fortifications. About this time we began to be enclosed on both sides with land at a short distance and passed no less than 3 lighthouses. Here we came to little islands and then we had on our right hand an opening to the wide ocean and ships or vessels gliding in all directions. Every now and then a large boat passed us which skimmed lightly along. The individuals who manned them were dressed elegantly. The sights that presented themselves all on all sides baffles all description. Such was their grandeur, splendor, and sublimity. Among other buildings as we passed was custom house and quarantine hospital, on our right, which when we had neared, the first mate at the orders of the pilot, cast an anchor, at 25 minutes to 6 p.m., for we had got the pilot on board a little before he being brought in a light barge. He is the picture of a Yankee. Having cast anchor I came below deck and found the porthole by our berth crowded with Saints all anxious to catch a glance of things as a view was afforded through the hole. I got tea and attended to writing till we had privilege to go on deck. It was a little before sunset that we got on deck and lovely indeed was the evening as the orb of day went out of sight, right behind the city of Boston. A many boats came past us and two large ships passed for Boston. The shades of night soon followed. The setting of the sun and shut from our sight the lovely landscape that surrounded us and left the eye not to rest upon but the dim outlines of some near objects and the lights of the lamps in Boston and those of a revolving and stationary lighthouse. After chatting a little with Brother Jesse Haven upon the resources of the Americans in case of war &c. I came down and got to bed. Thus ended one of the most important days that ever dawned in my history.

Sunday 29th I was roused about five minutes to 3 o’clock. About 3 a.m. was placed on guard by one of the lower hatchways. The day was beginning to dawn and the harbinger of day had begun to throw a lurid glare on a few fleecy clouds that stretched themselves athwart the horizon. The narrow slip of light of the waning moon was bright and lovely and I remembered that when we [p.30] had been about a week on the deep we saw the moon when it was about the same size when new changed and we have watched it wax and wane which shows the time that we we [SIC] have been on the mighty deep. When I got up I felt the atmosphere quite smothering but have to guard near a hatchway I found a refreshing air to blow. Such was the heat that Elder Brodrick [Broderick] got up and on observing that it was too soon to rise he muttered that he did not intend to sleep in that berth anymore. Laying a few things in the hatchway he lay down and slept till after six. I saw that the Saints seemed most smothered indeed with heat. About four some began to arise. One was writing, another was parking cloths, some dressing themselves. At six I came off guard. Carried up water for breakfast and came down, attended to my journal and went to look around on deck and found the Saints pleased with sights around us while Boston lay stretched in a great length before us at about four miles distance. About 9 o’clock we were ordered on deck where we were arranged in families and as such we passed the government doctors and our ship was allowed to go to port. During the morn the captain and family and friends came on board in a fine yacht and stayed till afternoon and then went out at our porthole. At 3 o’clock we were called on deck. Meeting opened by prayer and singing after which President Martin introduced the captain who said he had undertaken to bring us over as a matter of business and as such he said he felt to keep a good spirit towards all and while the Saints sing “They Will Marry None but Mormons,” he would carry none but Mormons. After remarks from Brother [John] Toone and President [Edward] Martin and his counselors, the meeting closed. We gave 3 cheers for captain, 3 for his mates, and 3 for his crew. The day was remarkably fine, which caused many boats to come around the ship. About 6, a 3 mast ship passed us and anchored a little below, and about 8 at night a very large 2 decker emigrant ship came past which left Liverpool 10 days before us. The emigrants crowded on deck and gave us 3 cheers as they passed. They cast anchor just below us. I attended on deck until half past 9, then came on board to bed. We spent a little time in [p.31] arranging our boxes.

Monday 30th I arose a little to four and with my wife arranged our loose things into bags, during which time the Saints was emptying their bed into the river through the portholes. We had to throw out our good flocks and have some 3 months to lay on hard boards or ground. We got our things arranged, washed our floor, and being invited I went on shore and was in through this business [UNCLEAR] I felt comfortable. We breakfasted on cold water given to us by Sister Peel and about 7 the steam tug came and about 8 o’clock we were on tugged to Boston. I went on deck and enjoyed the scenery and the view of buildings next the sea as we passed along. The town is a great length along the side of the bay and presents a dazzling prospect from the water, but our joy was short for we were ordered below with orders that a man was not to stir, except by leave. While below I got up some boiled rice, and about this time the anchor was cast and double guards were placed at each of the hatchways to prevent parties from coming to plunder us. While a number of awkward looking men came and wanted to come in our midst. About eleven I was asked to go onshore with our president and went with him and quite a number of the brethren in search for provisions and I had cheese, butter, and bread bought by Elder Brodrick [Broderick], who exerted himself as he always has done for our well-being. The Saints had the privilege given to go on deck so I went up before Elder Brodrick [Broderick] was ready and looked abroad and Elder Brodrick [Broderick] having come to us I went out of the ship on the quay, followed by my son John, who so soon as he felt the floor, he stamped with one foot and then the other exclaiming, “I have put my feet on ground again.” I now felt joy to spring up because I had got to land and thought of those who had kissed the very ground when they first touched the shore. I felt on free soil for the gospel has made me free and I will live under its banner while I live and in death I will sail under it into another world, and in the resurrection I will be a more than conqueror under its ample folds and life giving principles through the spirit of God. [p.32] When Elder Brodrick [Broderick] was ready in company with a many brethren we went into Boston and traveled a great part of a street that runs alongside the quay or harbor till we came to the marketplace, and there we purchased a large cheese and some butter and while [-] there the sweat flowed freely from us in consequence of our weak state, the sharp walk and the exceeding weather. The parties of whom we bought our provisions inquired where we had come from and where we were going and one gave the address of his brother-in-law who resides in Provo, Salt Lake Valley and presented me with a last Saturday’s newspaper which afforded me the news that the American government had dismissed Mr. Crampton, the English minister and that England was likely to dismiss the American minister. Strange news, what I oft feared., I felt glad I had escaped. We got a good drinking of new bread, principally with butter and cheese, what luxury. I wrote a letter for my Brother William and finished a letter for Brother Peel, in which I enclosed my letter for brother William. I wrote much in journal and felt happy. I got the privilege to go out again a little before 8 o’clock and in company with Brother John Pears went through a many streets, and while out we were passes by few water engines which was drawn at a good run by the men who was going to put out a fire. We should have gone further but I began to rain very hard. The rain passed off and we hastened on to ship which we reached a little after 9. The streets and houses was brilliantly lighted up by lightening ever now and then. Got some American coin for half a sovereign, I gave to Elder Brodrick [Broderick] to get changed. Attended prayer meeting and about 10 went to bed on the boards. A many put their beds on the floor in the gangway. Some slept on boxes, others on bags. Brother Litter [James Lister] and others cracked jokes and kept us our merry as pipers. [UNCLEAR]

Tuesday, July 1st. We arose about 4 this morn, and found a refreshing breeze blowing. The morn was fine and cool. We got into town and visited the common of about 12 acres laid out in walks, grass plots, trees, flowers, all kinds, water, and every variety of garden flower and walk was there. We also [p.33] went through a many very good streets, highly tastefully laid out with shops, public buildings and so on. I and Brother Taskard [Tasker] bought a little bread & got home about 12 at noon and found that the inspectors had been round and we were to pack up and get out our things in wards, which was accomplished by eight o’clock at night. About 2 p.m. I was appointed to guard at the entrance on and from ship and did not get relieved till near 9 except that I got a person to guard for me till I got tea. We retired about 9½ and slept soundly on our boards.

July 2nd Wed. We awoke and got up about 3 and attended to packing, and before six we got breakfast and packing finished. I then got our things out and then guarded for a brother while he got his things out. About 8 o’clock I was on my way to station, on a van loaded with our luggage and set on tins to keep them on. When arrived we got our things weighed and kept an eye on them till my wife and John came that we could go into our carriage, which was a cattle van. Our luggage had to be box for seats, and at night our beds. I felt highly delighted as we passed along in seeing the various streets and houses. A little past eleven we were steaming away from Boston towards Iowa City. I had some delightful reflections as we beheld the splendid buildings and beautiful landscapes that spread out before our eyes as we rapidly passed along. We passed Malbro [LOCATION UNKNOWN] and a many interesting villages with their chapels and spires. At six we were at Springfield, a large city and stopped a while and while there we were asked many questions about our passage, the numbers on board, deaths & the places from whence we started and where we were going. One apostate tried to dissuade us from going further, some laughed and turned up their noses with scorn. We had got 100 miles from Boston, and had got to Albany, which place we reached about 12 at midnight. Our carriages were luggage vans vans [SIC], and our seats were our luggage which was in our way. We were uncomfortable in some some [SIC] things, but comfortable in mind. We were cramped with being confined, some slept in the [p.34] carriages and some laid down on the ground and some walked about till we had orders to pack up and go a quarter of a mile to a camping ground near the ferry called Offman on a broad part of Hudson. We crossed the ferry and had near a mile to carry our provisions to station, which we found in the middle of a street unfenced off. We were soon on our journey which was rendered very pleasant with being in good carriages and having good Saints about us. We passed Utica a large city and arrived at Rochester early in the morning.

Thursday 3rd We were on the road for for [SIC] Rochester and passed Utica, a very beautiful town, and as we stayed there a short time we were scanned over the populace. There were some very large buildings, the River Burgon [NAME OF RIVER UNKNOWN] passes at the low side of the city through the vales of which we rode a many miles. Here we were a short distance from the falls of Niagara. We left Rochester in the afternoon just after getting some hot water boiled. Taking it on board, we eat and and [SIC] drank as we passed along. At night closed in we saw a little display of fireworks. The night was beautiful and as I sat with my left hand to the carriages I had a good chance for looking abroad till I felt sleepy. I had a good nights rest and sleep and I felt refreshed in the morning.

Friday 4th Awaking pretty early, about 3 o’clock, I looked out for the demonstration of celebrating the Fourth of July, but there was only a few here and there well dressed persons and engines decorated with ribbons, evergreens, and flags. As the day advanced we saw more signs of the day of days with Americans. We passed Battavia and got into Buffalo about 11, changed carriages and got tea, then started off about 2. We had amongst others squires, tenants for a carriage passenger. Before we changed carriages and when we got into the other carriages we had Mr. Tenant for our nearest neighbor. He had his wife, her mother, and his child. What had Mormonism done? Such a spectacle was scarcely ever witnessed as to see one who has been so rich, so high in life, to come to be huddled together with the poorest of the poor and see how patiently he endures all things is truly wonderful. Our first [p.35] carriage was a cattle pen and 2nd was an improvement which had a place of convenience for us at one end the 3rd change. Our 3rd change was an improvement on the others, and our fourth had not only padded seat backs but very soft padded seats; where we had our rich brothers for our next neighbor. Our fourth change was made at [-] Cleveland and was made about half past 8 o’clock on the morn of [-].

Saturday 5 We arrived here 5 o’clock and remained a considerable time in the carriage. When we got out I sought water, got breakfast and waited till seated about 8 ½ . The places we passed this morn was of minor importance being mostly woods. Yesterday we traveled for a considerable time at a distance from and having Lake Erie in view, and as soon as we awoke this morning we saw it near at hand and soon came up to it and passed over a portion of it. I should calculate that it is larger than England. I did not rest so well the past night having had a rather awkward place to lay in. But thanks be to [-] our Father in Heaven. Our weather is good. We left Connecticut Cleveland [APPARENTLY THE TYPIST CORRECTED THE PLACE NAME WITHOUT DELETING CONNECTICUT] at 10 minutes the 10 a.m and reached Toledo about 3 o’clock. We passed 3 rivers the last a very large one, and in a swamp connected with it we saw a tortoise feeding on something white. On arriving at our the station we got out of carriages and some got into others immediately but being too late I did not get a carriage till 10 minutes past 7. In the meantime I assisted a little in changing luggage from van to van, and then came to my wife. Got some water, and a brother who had a pan and a fire burning loaned me his can in which I boiled water, and had a good tea. As soon as tea was done an empty carriage was brought up into which we got and about 8 o’clock, was again on our journey. Pleased once more to view the open fields and almost boundless woods. The sun setting about 8, darkness soon followed unless the moon lends her rays, as at this time she did but feebly, being about three days old. As we passed along I sat at our window. Watched the woods and fields and cottages by the moon and stars. Feeble light till about 9 o’clock and then laid down in my trousers and stockings on the boards with my head on a small sack, and something under my buggons [UNCLEAR, PROBABLY MEANING Buttocks] ] and slept well till near four, [p.36] Saturday 6, at which time I got up and dressed. And the trains soon after stopping, a brother got his kettle and a number of us gathered wood and we had a fire and kettle boiled in a few minutes and soon we had a good breakfast of tea, bread and cheese which we got while the train was moving. Just as we were finishing breakfast Elder [Edward] Martin came around with bread for those who had none for breakfast. After breakfast, I washed, shaved, dressed, and felt comfortable. The morn was remarkably fine. The sun shone in all its brilliancy. As we passed along we saw much ripe corn and one field in attack, the straw being short. There is a much wooded land all the way as we passed. As we passed along I reflected of home and of our dear friends and thought that absence makes the heart grow fonder. I paraphrase the poet:

With thee conversing I forget

All time and things and care.

My labor is blessed and all is sweet,

If thou, my Lizz, is here.

July 9th 1856. I thought of another as I stood on guard at the door of our carriages and the tear tear [SIC] started to my eyes. We met nothing of importance today, there being nothing but large villages and parties here and there gazing at us, dressed in their Sunday clothes. All seemed surprised at the number of carriages, for besides filling about 17 carriages, we had our luggage with us and two engines to [-] to draw us. We went very slow for many miles, and got into Chicago about half past 6. We found the people all alive about us, and that they were a little excited. They flocked around us like bees. When we alighted we was in the open street which gave the people a chance of mixing amongst us and of viewing us as though we had been a quantity of cattle. We were soon taken out of the street to a large luggage warehouse where we we [SIC] commenced to prepare for our nights rest. Having got a berth I went to look after some milk, but did not get any. I came back and then went to assist in sorting some of our luggage from some other, and then I came back, got some refreshment, retired to bed. The spectacle presented by [p.37] so many crowded into so small a space looked strange indeed and was much like Babylon with the chattering of men, children, and women. Being tired and sleepy we were soon in silence.

Monday 7th. I was awakened about 12 o’clock by voices of a man and his wife who were jarring about a light some one had taken. However, I soon fell a sleep and after short naps I awoke about half past 2 and got up, looked round and the scene was laughable. The floor of the extensive warehouse was covered with human beings that there was scarcely room to put your foot down without treading on someone. We dressed and packed our things, ready for off and then went out a little. Came back and a brother loaned us his boiler, which filled with water and carried and put it on a good fire and before it had been on a minute the word was passed to get on train. I then took my tin and hastened on to our carriage and the brother having given us a can of tea, we got a hasty bite and sup or 2 and hastened off to train and was just in time to get a place, and about 6 o’clock we were away again leaving Chicago behind us. As we passed along we came to a large village and an occasional city, but not of any importance. The train moved on with speed when going but stopped very oft. Thus so far has been remarkably fine and since [-] 12 has been very hot. Our rest having been short of late we felt frequently overpowered with sleep, and as we are much shaken we are awakened very soon out of strange dreams. I have seen some tortoises and beautiful birds. One pair was large and was decorated about the head with red feathers and on the root of their tails was very white, which contrasted with their dark bodies. In our ride we came to Rock River, a very large stream. After a pretty long ride we got to Rock Island, and as we got in about 8 o’clock darkness set in so we had to stop all night in our carriages close up to the Mississippi River, which I visited and handled its water. I felt glad that my eyes beheld the mighty river, the father of waters about which we had heard so much, and upon whose waters such mighty [p.38] events have transpired in connection with the work of the last days. A few great steamers were a little above where I witnessed a large steamer coming to anchor. Lights being held out gave me a chance of seeing its great outlines. I went a little into the city and conversed with a person who told us that 700 and odd Saints passed this way a few days ago. The night was as beautiful as the day had been only more lovely because more cool and serene. I went to berth, got the last bread we had. Then laid down beside my son John and slept soundly. I retired about 9.

Tuesday 8th I awoke about 4 o’clock and got up, went to the Mississippi, washed, got water for and got breakfast. So soon as breakfast was over we were moved a little and about [-] took our passage on a ferry boat across the river, leaving the state Illinois and entering the state of Iowa. Being near the gangway I was soon onshore keeping up with President [Edward] Martin. He gave me the word to keep on and lead the way to railway depot, which I did. Brother Thomas Smith keeping next to me, my wife following behind with John, being the first woman on the line of march. We soon came to the depot and rested; and in a little time we got into the luggage vans provided for us. We are now waiting the luggage being brought here. So soon as that is arranged I expect to move from this place called Davenport.

We left Davenport about 14 minutes to 11 p.m. Passed a large tract of rolling prairies with very little wood. We passed much prairie land yesterday and a little a day before. At about 17 miles from Iowa City we passed passed [SIC] or crossed a large river, the name of which I forget, and after a tedious ride under painful circumstances arising from the heat, about 6 o’clock we came to Iowa City and after shifting about from place to place, we were allowed to go to camping ground, a part of our luggage going by a van. I, my wife and John set out for the camping ground along with others and having walked near 2 miles and a half. The lightning flamed athwart the air, the thunder murmured in the distance and the rain poured down in torrents and [p.39] found us unsheltered amidst the pitiless elements until we came to a farmhouse in the yard of which was 3 covered wagons in one of which I just recognized Sister Eliza Pear whom I accosted and was invited to their shelter. I turned back and got my family into this wagon and found a grand shelter, not only so, but the owner gave us the privilege of sleeping and fetched us his best bed. . . .[p.40]
[HE WORKED AS A JOURNALIST IN IOWA AND WAS NOT IN SALT LAKE CITY UNTIL THE FALL OF 1859 (SEE HIS JOURNAL VOL 7. P.1)]

September, Friday 2nd 1859 I awoke at day break and got up a little after 5. About 7 we sat down in Brother Brigham’s and partook of a good breakfast. This morning I and Christopher went in search of Brother Pinder who had told my wife he had a house ready for us and we wanted to go into it as our services were ended I connection with the Church train. We found him but found also that he had no house for us, and after having come 4 miles to find him we had the same road or distance to make back again, and arrived at Brother Barlow’s where we found my wife and where we partook of refreshments, rested and arranged about sleeping in a tent in President Young’s yard. I also went to the office where the Deseret News is printed and got work for a few days on the 2nd No. of the Mountaineer. . . .[vol. 7, p.1]

BIB: Beecroft, Joseph. Journal (Ms 1915), reel 1, vol. 6 38p. (Mss.) and reel 3, bx. 2, rd. 6, vol. 6, p. 10-40, vol. 7, p.1 (typescript). (HDA) (source abbreviations)