John, David - Journal (First part)

David John Journal

Volume One

I was born on the 29th day of January 1833, at 7:40 P.M. in the village of Little-new-castle, in the County of Pembroke, South Wales. My father Daniel John, was born, April 1, 1793, one mile distance from my birth-place, at a place named Martel Mill, in the Parish of Punchaston in the County of Pembroke, South Wales. He died in the house in which I was born, on the 31st of March 1856, aged 63 years to the day. He was 40 years of age, lacking 2 months and 2 days old, when he died. He was buried in the cemetry [sic], of the Baptist Church "Beulah", where his father Thomas John was buried. I attended my father's funeral, which was held at his own residence, conducted by the Rev. Benjamin Owen. My mother and my brother Thomas were present at the funeral. My father was an industrious, and honest man. He was strickly [sic] a moral man, in the fullest sense of the term, and was of a religious mind, and was a member of the Baptist Church. He attended family prayers, and called upon his sons, to pray in the household, in their turn, since they were 12 years of age. He taught his children to observe the Sabbath day strickly [sic], and to attend meetings, and Sunday School, in his Church. He was a kind husband and father and confered [sic] a liberal education upon his two sons, the only two of his children who grew to maturity, and survived him. My father was a clothier, and furnished employment to many men, he also carried on farming, and was always dealing in horn stock and sheep. His word was as good as his bond, and it was so considered, by all he dealt with, and who was acquainted with him. He kept me in school at his own expence [sic], to within seven weeks before his death, and then I left school of my own volition, for the purpose of preaching the Gospel.

My mother Mary Williams John, was born in the year 1801, at Llys-y-drew farm, in the parish of Punchaston, in the County of Pembroke, South Wales. She was 8 years younger than my father. He was 35 years of age, and my mother 27 years of age, when they got married. My mother was a religious woman, and was a faithful member in the Baptist Church, and taught her children, the religion she believed in. She was a kind and affectionate mother, and was devoted to the welfare of her husband and children. She died at her own residence in South Wales, on the 1st of July 1878, being 77 years of age. She lived a widow 22 years and 3 months, and was buried by my father's side. I have caused a tomb stone erected over her grave; although I have not seen it.

My brother Thomas John was born November 25th 1835, at 2:15 P.M. and died at 8 P.M. June 9th 1859, aged 23 years, 6 months, 14 days and 6 hours. He was buried in the same grave with my father. He was much beloved my me, he was a true friend to me in all my trials, I passed though after I united myself with the Latter-day-Saints, he was a member of the Baptist Church, and was inclined to be religious during his short life. He confessed to me, that he believed in the divinity of the Gospel as restored to earth, by holy angels, and promised to be baptized, but he died without being baptized. He was sick during the last three years of his life. When he died, I lost a true and loving friend. He was 3 inches taller then I was, but our countenances were much alike.

My sister Hannah John, the eldest child of my parents, was born, November 25th 1830, and died at 12:15 P.M. August 27th 1834, aged 3 years, 9 months, and 2 days. She was buried in the grave yard of Punchaston, by the graves of the parents of my mother. I was 1 year and 7 months old when she died. I can not remember seeing her, but I well remember her coffin, and the silver lace and plates which trimed [sic] it.

My second sister, also named Hannah, was born, at 9 P.M., November 12th 1837 and died February 20th 1841, aged 3 years, 3 months, and 8 days. She was buried in the [same] grave as her sister's.

One son and one daughter were born to my parents since the death of my sisters, the both died on the days on which they were born, the son was named Levi, and the daughter, Martha. Some children died at birth, and were not named.

My grandfather's name was Thomas John, he was born, in the same village, where I was, in the year 1769, and died December 11th 1834, aged 65 years. I was 1 year and 10 months old when he died. I do not remember him, but my parents told me that he nursed me many a time. He was buried in the same grave yard as my father was buried in. There were born to him, 3 sons and 3 daughters, namely Daniel, John, Thomas, Hannah, Ann and Mary. The maiden name of my father's mother, was Hannah Owen, she bore one child to my grandfather, which was my father, the name of the other--the mother of his 5 children was Mary--whom I well remember, she died on February 22nd 1855, aged 80 years, and was buried in the same grave as her husband. My father had two brothers, John and Thomas, and three sisters, Ann, Hannah and Mary. John was born in the year 1806, and died July 5th 1863, aged 57 years, he was a tall man 6 feet high, sandy complexion. He died un-married. I preached the Gospel to him many times, and I think, he believed it, but did not embrace it. He was an intelligent man, was a well to do- farmer, and was a member of the Baptist Church. His brother Thomas John, was a married man. I was present at his wedding, with my parents. The reception was held in his mother's house. He has raised a large family of children. I saw him last in the year 1871. He was a deacon in the Baptist Church. The three sisters of my father were married. Ann and Mary, had large families (of children) Hannah married to the Rev. David James, but bore no children.

My great grand father David John, was born in Cardiganshire, South Wales, in the year 1728, and died in the year 1792, aged 64 years. I can not vouch for the accuracy of these dates to be strickly [sic] correct, I received them from my mother, and she gave them me, from the best of her recollection. He was burried [sic] in the Parish of Little-New-Castle, Pembrokeshire, South Wales.

My great grand father David John had 4 sons and 3 daughters, namely John John, born in the year 1760 and died in 1841, aged 81 years. Wm. John born 1763, and died 1835, aged 72 years. Henry John born 1766, and died 1837, aged 71 years. Thomas John, ( my grandfather) born 1769, died December 11th, 1834, aged 65 years. The first of these four sons - was John John, (whom I well remember, and whose funeral I attended, when I was 8 years of age. The Rev'd Joseph James preached, at his funeral, from the text, "the Lord taketh the righteous away, before cometh the evil day." When I went home from his funeral, I repeated the text to my parents, and have remembered his funeral and the text ever since. He had born to him three sons and three daughters, namely, Charles, David, John, Ann, Mary and Hannah. All of these (except Mary and John) raised large families, and are still alive, so far as I know, at this date, being the 23rd of May 1891) John John died un-married. Mary married, gave birth to two children, and died, her children also died. I attended the funerals of John and Mary, when I was a boy.

The second son of great grandfather was William John. He had born to him three daughters, Ann, Martha and Mary. These three were married, raised large families, I was acquainted with them all, and with their children. They lived when I was a boy in "Dinas", a place between Fishguard and Newport, in the County of Pembrokeshire, South Wales.

His third son was Henry John, he had born to him five sons, namely, David, Thomas, John, William and Henry. Henry died when I was a boy, William died, when I was about 18 years of age. John was un-married in 1856. That was the last time I saw him. He was then about 50 years old. David and Thomas, moved to "Rhymney", Monmouthshire, England, when they were young men. I saw them when I was about 15 years of age, have not seen them since, and do not know their families. The fourth son was my grand father, whose history I have already given. I have failed to trace the genealogy of my father's house farther back, that [than] I have written above. As I have mentioned already, my great grandfather, went to Pembrokeshire from Cardiganshire, and I have failed to connect him with the family, he left on the old home-stead.

My cousins and second cousins and their families, I shall leave for the present, as my chief aim has been to connect myself with the past, for the benefit of my posterity. Again, having been absent from my birth place the most part of the last 40 years, I have no general knowledge of the families of my relatives, during that time. I have further details of my kindred on both sides of the houses, in this journal, from pages 345 to 375.

My great grandfather David John, (I will here add, died 41 years, before my birth) I have failed to learn his wive's [sic] name, nor the family, from whence she descended. His daughter Hannah John, was married, to the Rev'd Benjamin Davis, but she bore no children. She was born in the year 1770, and died 1840, aged 70 years. She raised my father, I well remember her; I was 7 years old, when she died.

Hannah Owen was the mother of my father. She was the daughter of Daniel Owen of "Ceryg" farm, (Rock farm) two miles from Newport, Pembrokeshire, South Wales. So near as I can learn, Dl. Owen, was born at Newport, in the year 1727, and died in 1792, aged 65 years. I do not know how many children he had. One of his sons named Daniel had two sons, one of them was the Rev'd Wm. Owen, who was a Baptist preacher, and whom I saw in the year 1871. He lived for many years, in Cardiff, South Wales. He was the Editor of "Y Gwir Fedyddiwr", (the True Baptist ) for many years. He was married, but had no children. One of his brothers named, Daniel Owen, and one sister, name un-known to me, went to America, when they were young. I have no knowledge of them further than this. After the birth of my father, his father and mother, separated, after which the both married again, my grand-mother married, one Wm. Thomas, to whom she bore some children, concerning whom, I have no knowledge, only I was acquainted with one of her grand sons, named Wm. Evans, and I learned, that he emmigrated [sic] to America, a few years after I arrived there. My grand mother, Hannah Owen, (according to the memory of my mother, was born in the year 1775, and died in the year 1840, aged 65 years. I remember visiting her twice, in company with my father. I was 7 years of age, when she died. She was a member of the Presbeterian [sic] Church. I had her sealed to Wm. Thomas with whom she lived as wife for the period of 50 years. She lived and died, at a village named "Bryn-y-berian" on the borders of Pembrokeshire, and Cardiganshire, South Wales. This is all that I can record, of my relations on the Owen's part of the house. I was told by my mother, that they were very religious family, and well to do farmers. I well remember Wm. Thomas, who married my grand-mother, he lived many years, after she died. He was a good and respectable man.

My kindred on my mother's side

My grandmother (the mother of my mother's) was Mary Harris Williams. She married David Williams of Windy-hill farm, in the parish of Punchaston, in the County of Pembroke, South Wales. He was born about the year 1740 as near as I can learn, and died in the year 1780, aged 40 years. He had born to him the following sons and daughters. James, Thomas, David, Benjamin, Levi and Ebenezer, my mother and Ann, the latter [David Williams] died when young. He died as already stated at 40 years of age, leaving a large family of young children, to be cared for by their mother, but she was an exceedingly industrious woman, she managed her farm in a masterly manner, and raised her children up to usefulness. She lived to see her children all married, and settled on farms before she passed away, except Levi, who never married. I have seen scores the descendants of this man, but time and space forbid me to write or dwell further on their names and history at present.

His father's name was also named David Williams (my great grand father) who was born in the year 1700, and died in the year, 1750, these dates were given me verbally by my mother, and gave them to the best of her recollection, when she was 70 years old.

My great grandfather had one daughter, named Mary, she married Benjamin Thomas, they raised a large family. I remember three of her sons, namely, Benjamin, David and John. I was also acquainted with the children of these men. They had one sister named Ann, who married William Lewis, I was acquainted with them and their children. I also remember the sister of my grandfather, and the husband - Benjamin Thomas, mentioned above. I never learned the name of my great grand mother, the wife of David Williams the first, nor the family from which she descended, or whether she had brothers of sisters, I know not. I have not been able to trace this family, further back, that I have here written.

My grand-mother Williams and her ancestors,

The name of the father of my grandmother Mary Harris Williams was Alban Harries, he was born in the year 1710 and died in 1770, aged 60 years. He lived in "Ty-Gwyrr" (white house farm) on the borders of the north of Pembrokeshire, and the South of Cardiganshire in the County of Pembroke, South Wales. He was a wealthy farmer, and gave one thousand pounds to each of his children, on the day they married. I do not know the names of his parents, nor the name of his wife, nor the family from which she descended. She had two sons, named Thomas and John, and three daughters, Mary, Ann and [blank] who died unmarried, she lived with her sister Mary for many years. Mary was my grandmother. Thomas and John settled in "Punchaston," and raised families whom I knew. Thomas had a son named Thomas, who was a first cousin to my mother, who also had a son and one daughter, named Thomas and Ann, the last Thomas Harris, married a second cousin of mine, named Ann John. His sister Ann Harris, married David Davies, "Fagwrfram" farm, near Punchaston, Pembrokeshire, South Wales. John the son of Alban Harris, raised a large family in Punchaston. John Harris, the grandson of Alban Harris, and the brother of Thomas above mentioned, lived in "Castellfwch," and raised many sons and daughters, all of his children, I knew in my boyhood. Ann Harris, daughter of Alban Harris, married the Rev'd David Rees of "Frogol," near Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, all of their children died un-married.

All of the descendants of Alban Harris were people, who had an abundance of means, wherever they settled, they were prosperous, in their circumstances. I will here say, that in the year 1882, I labored four months in the Temple in St. George, Utah, and while there, I did much work in behalf of the dead, an account of which is written in this journal - see dates from Sep. 1st 1882, to December 31st 1882. In consideration, of what is there recorded, I will now leave the History of my kindred, and shall give a short synopsis of my own history.

David John was born on the 29th of January 1833. From 5 years old, 'till I was 12, I attended day school taught by Mr. David Williams, he was a distant relation of mine on my mother's side of the house. During the seven years, he taught at Little-new-Castle, Punchaston, and Castellfwch, I followed him, wherever he went, 'till I completed my term of seven years under his able tuition. During 4 years out of the 7 mentioned, my dear brother Thomas, attended school with me. From the years of 12, 'till I was 23 years of age, I spent the most of the time in school. In the year 1845, when I was 12 years of age, I was baptized to the Baptist Church, by the Rev'd Thomas Griffiths Jones. I attended all their meetings and Sunday schools, for years in my boyhood. In the spring of the year 1848, I first met the Elders of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints. Three of them visited my birth placed [sic], and preached in the open air. They were John Price, John Davies, and John Evans. They were native Elders. Their preaching had a great effect upon my mind, I believed their doctrine, when I first heard it. I followed them to their lodging house, and listened to a discussion between them, and many others, of various creeds of faith, thus listening deepened my convictions of the Divinity of their doctrine. When I entered my parents' house, I informed them, that I fully believed the doctrines advanced by the Elders. My father reasoned with me, saying "that visions, visitings of angels, prophecy, healing the sick, speaking in tongues etc., had long since ceased, and were not any longer necessary", I argued on the other side, and could not be convinced to the contrary. The Elders preached several times in the place during the summer's months and every time they preached, I attended their meetings. When the summer ended, they discontinued their preaching, for the reason that none were found willing to open to them, their houses, to preach in, and it was too wet and cold, to hold meetings in the open air in the winter season. In the month of February 1849, I met several of the Elders at Letterstone, two miles from my father's house, I attended a meeting a meeting [sic], on the evening of the day, I met them, when one Elder preached, by the name of Daniel Williams. My mind was fully made up to unite myself with the Church, at the close of the meeting. After the services were closed, I informed Elder Williams, that I was ready to be baptized. It was a dark night, and the rain fell in torrents, but we walked through it for two miles to reach water. On the way to the water, the power of God, and the powers of darkness, alternately were resting upon me, 'till my frame shook. Several times on the way I came to a came to a sudden halt, and could not, seemingly walk another step, my limbs and my whole body seemed powerless; Elder Williams, kept asking me, from time to time, what was the matter with me? I answered him, that some power whispered to me that I was deceived, and that I was bringing ruin on my head, and disgrace upon all my kindred. He replied "that is the power of the evil one, that endeavors to mislead you, and I rebuke it, in the name of Jesus Christ. Come, let me baptize you, and all your doubts will be drownded" [sic]. At his powerful rebuke, the powers of darkness departed, and my whole being was filled with the peace of God, and I was determined to be baptized. At length we reached the water, and he baptized me, in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. When he raised me to my feet, a great and marvelous power from Heaven, rested upon me, and I shouted at the full strength of my voice, "Glory to God, and the Lamb, for ever, in the highest; I am born of the water and Spirit." Elder Williams responded, "Amen", in a loud voice. This incident occurred before we had left the water. We went back to the house, from which we went, and Elder Williams, confirmed me the same night. I remained in the house, all of that night, and the spirit of God, seemingly, without measure, abode with us, during that never to be forgotten night. O! how I should like here to define my feelings, my peace, and my joy, on that night, and that week that followed, but I can not, pen can not write, tongue can not tell, the wondrous powers of Heaven, manifested to us; not in signs, wonders, and visions, but in the calm, peaceful influences of the Holy Ghost. Next morning I left Williams, we separated, and we never met since. He died in "Tooele" Utah, a few years ago. I went to my parents house, with my heart full of joy and gladness, to tell them the wondrous story, that I had found the truth - the Gospel, the Priesthood restored, the establishment of the Church of God on earth. I rejoiced to bring them the good news that angels had visited the earth, and that the Father and the Son, had appeared and spoken to Joseph, but to my utter disappointment, the message was not credited. A spirit of opposition was manifested, in my father's house, and in the whole region around. People flocked to my father's house to learn, if the report was true, that I had been baptized by the Latter-day-Saints, and when they were answered in the affirmative, much bitterness, was manifested towards me.

The first Sabbath, after my baptism arrived, early in the morning, I was preparing to go and attend a meeting of the Latter-day-Saints, a few miles distant from my father's house, but my father forbade me. I remained at home that day, and refused to attend services in the Baptist Church. In the afternoon, I took a walk, alone, in my father's fields, in deep meditation, as to what course to persue [sic] in the future. The Spirit of God rested upon me, in a powerful manner. Every this [thing] became new to me. The earth appeared a paradise to me, the horses, cattle, sheep, colts, calves, etc., in the fields around me, appeared as they never did before, all the work of creation appeared majestic and grand. The land scape, for twenty miles before me, appeared to me, as the garden of the Lord. Still my best friends on earth, had turned the cold shoulder towards me. I offered a silent prayer to the throne of grace, "Lord what shall I do?" The calm answer came back to my soul, "Leave thy father's house, and go East to Glamorganshire for a season." I made my intentions known to my father and mother, they opposed my leaving home, but wished me to remain at home and attend school, for a few more years, and prepare me for the ministry of the Baptist Church.

One evening, after my parents had retired to bed for the night, I walked seven miles to a town, named Fishguard, where I had learned, a meeting of the Elders, would be held at 12 o'clock that night. The reason for the lateness of that hour, was, because they could not hold meetings, without being disturbed by their enemies, hence they met, after the masses had retired for the night. I reached the brethren, about mid-night, attended their meeting, laid my circumstances before them, and asked for advice. Elder Phillips Sykes, presided in that meeting. They advised me to obey my father's wishes 'till I came of age, and attend school, as he desired me to do, promising the time would come, when I should reach my majority, and become free to act on my own agency. I returned to my father's house, before any of the family, were up from bed. I then remained with my father from the spring of 1849, 'till the month of April 1850. I felt that I was in bondage of mind, during this year. I kept myself at home, and did not associate much, with any public meetings. In the mean time, I spent much of my time in reading, and studying the Scriptures. Towards, the latter end of April 1850, I told my father that I wished to go to "Bridgend", Glamorganshire. He told me that on conditions that I would promise him to keep away from the Latter-day-Saints, 'till I was 21 years of age, he should give his consent for me to go. I made him that promise. I left my father's house, and traveled on foot to "Maesteg," Glamorganshire. This was 100 miles from my father's house, but I walked that distance in three days. At "Maesteg", I found a man, named Henry Davies, I worked for him, early and late for seven weeks. I then left him, and went to "Black-Mill", near Bridgend. I found work with a man, named Hopkin Jenkins; I fell in love with him and his family, and they fell in love with me. It was only a few days, after my arrival, 'till I found they regarded me, as one of their own children. Their kind treatment of me, and their continual love and kind deeds towards me, made me feel, that I had met friends indeed. A few days, after my arrival, I learned that Mr. Jenkins was a Baptist preacher, and a minister of the Baptist Church at the place. I work [sic] for him and attended school alternatively. The day school was taught by one Mr. Martin, M.A. a refined gentleman, and highly educated. He loved me, and gave me, much extra attention and service in my studies, which I greatly appreciated. He taught me the English, Grammar; Latin, and Greek Grammars, and other branches of education. I made rapid progress, under his tuition, and he spared no time, to make my studies a success.

In one year from the time I arrived in Black-Mill, Mr. Martin, (who was a minister in the Presbyterian Church) suggested to Mr. Jenkins, that I should be recommended for the ministry, and educated to that end. Mr. Jenkins, submitted to me the recommendations of Mr. Martin, saying that he fully endorsed them, adding that as my parents belonged to the Baptist Church, that he thought I should be prepared, for the Baptist ministry. I told him, that I did not believe the Lord wished me, to be a minister in the Baptist Church. He urged that my doubts and fears in this regard, were strong evidences to him, that the Lord, had made the call, though Mr. Martin and himself, adding that the Lord does not call the conceited, the proud and haughty, to his ministry. The next Sunday after this conversation, to my astonishment the Rev. Mr. Jenkins, announced from his pulpit, "that D. John will preach in this church to-morrow at 7 P.M.". This was April 1851 ( I was at this time 18 years and 3 months and 3 weeks old.) Much against my desires, I filled my appointment, and preached to a full house. I did not at this time have a particle of faith in the Divinity of the Baptist Church. I believed in the scriptures, and preached from them, but I had a great thirst for education, and could see my way clear before me, to obtain it, by persuing [sic] this course, now opened to me. I remained with Mr. Jenkins and Mr. Martin, after preaching this sermon, one year and 9 months, preaching on Sundays in the Baptist Churches, as per appointments made by Mr. Jenkins. Then I made a partial change for 3 months, I left school, but remained in the neighborhood preaching. In the meantime, Mr. Jenkins, had made an application, to the Baptist College, "Haverfordwest," for my admittance as a student. An answer was received, that I should be admitted, in the month of May 1854.

I left Mr. Jenkins, and his kind family, in the month of Dec. 1853. After living with him 2 years and 8 months. I went to my parents, who received me with much joy. I left Jenkins with sorrow, for he had been a father to me, but joy returned to my heart, when I met my parents, and my brother Thomas. I yet lacked 2 months nearly, of being 21 years of age. I rested a few weeks with my parents, but I could not rest long, I was anxious to get a good education.

In the first days of January 1854, I entered an Academy, at Haver-ford-west, 9 miles from my father's house. The Principal of the Academy was the Rev. Mr. Brown, of the established Church of England. He was a highly educated gentleman, and gave much of his time and attention to me, and my studies for 4 months. My chief studies, under his tuition were, the Greek and Latin languages, also Geometry. During these 4 months, I preached on Sundays, in the Baptist Churches, and several times in the Churches of my parents-"Beulah," and "Smyrna." The first time I preached in Beulah, my father shed tears of joy, in seeing me, in the pulpit and Church, he loved so well. My mother, and Brother were also present on that occasion, and scores of my kindred. I entered College of the first of May 1854, and continued there, during school days, until, February 6th 1856.

In the month of September 1854, we had one month vacation, during this month, I preached in the Churches in Pembrokeshire. We resumed our studies in October 1854, and continued them, 'till June 1855. When we again had vacation, for one month. I was requested to visit the Baptist Churches, in Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, Glamorganshire, and Monmouthshire. Which I did, and preached three times on Sundays, and every night in the week, excepting Saturday nights. I worked very hard during this month, traveled through 4 Counties, and preached 32 times. I returned in the month of July 1855, and attended College, 'till the 30th of September 1855. We had then a vacation for 7 weeks. We were commissioned to visit Baptist Churches, preach, and use our influences in behalf of the College, and to receive subscriptions to aid it. We received our various appointments, and I filled mine as follows. I went on board a Steamer from Milford Haven, to Liverpool, distance 200 miles, and labored there 9 days. I preached in all the Baptist Churches, in Liverpool. From there, I went to "Anglesey" [Anglesey], North Wales, Carnarvonshire [Caernarfonshire], Montogomreyshire [Montgomeryshire], Merionithshire, Cardiganshire, and preach in all the Baptist Churches, in the Counties named. It was indeed a hard mission, for the short space of time, given me perform it. From Cardiganshire, I returned to my parents, remained with them one day, and returned to College, at the end of October 1855. From the 1st of Nov. 1855, 'till the 6th of February 1856, I attended College.

On the night of January 28th 1856, the last day of my 22nd year, I had a remarkable dream, or night vision, while I was alone, in my bed-room, in the College building.

I dreamed that an angel of the Lord visited me, he placed his right hand on my left shoulder. His eyes were of a dark color brown color [sic], but full of glory. His voice was clear, and full of divine power, and authority. While in his presence, I beheld exceedingly high mountains. He told me, "they were the Everlasting Hills, over, or by which the Latter-day-Saints, were passing to their gathering place." He asked me, "Why are you, spending your time here, in vain? Why is it, that you will not join the Church of Christ?" "And spend your time there?" "I hoped that I was in the Church of God now," was my reply, "Am I not?" He replied firmly, "you know better", and added, "Do not ask questions, that you know perfectly well, but go on unto perfection". He directed me, to "look towards the firmament." I looked upwards, and beheld people of every sect and party. There, I saw Christ sitting upon his throne in great glory, and the people gathered themselves before him, to be judged. Those who had obeyed his commandments, He commanded to stand on His right hand, and those who had not, on His left hand. He judged one by one, that is one at a time, 'till they formed two single files, being about one mile in length. The two files faced each other, and appeared in the vision, to be about forty feet apart. Those on His left, were men of the different sects and parties of religion; they appeared to be much disappointed, and bowed down, with sorrow and grief. They turned their faces from Jesus, and could not abide His presence. Those who composed the file, who stood on His right hand, were Latter-day-Saints. They seemed to be full of joy, and satisfaction. They all smiled and appeared lovely. They looked on the face of Christ, with the most perfect freedom. Christ appeared, in the Majesty of His calling, and as the Great Judge of mankind. He appeared calm and greatly dignified, but there was no appeal from his decisions. I addressed the Angel, and said, "According to this vision the Latter-day-Saints are right, but the others are wrong". He answered kindly, but firmly, "You can see, who is right, and who is wrong." He then said, "look towards the right of thee", I looked and beheld an extensive valley. the most beautiful land I ever saw. We were standing on one side of the valley, which was even or flat on its surface, on the side, where we stood, were [a] high and beautiful row of trees, under full foliage, and under the shadow of one of them, we stood, from the heat of the sun, which was very powerful. On the other side were mountains, but not high ones. The mountains extended to the extremity of the valley, and beyond. The beauty and glory of the valley, which was full of precious fruits of various kinds, is beyond my power to describe it. It appeared to my view to be between 3 and 4 miles, wide 30 miles long. I exclaimed, "Oh, my God, I never knew before, that such a beautiful scene as this belonged to our earth". The angel replied, "This shall be thy inheritance, and thy seed after thee for ever, if thou wilt obey the commandments of God, and do right in the flesh." The Angel again spoke, and said to me, "Look behind thee." I turned around, and found myself in a large and beautiful building. There I saw one on the stand, preaching the Gospel (it was my brother Thomas, he was alive then, but he will be saved, for I beheld him in a saved condition.) The angel addressed me saying, "This is the house of the Lord." At this remark, I was arroused [sic], and I believe that the Spirit of God, and His holy angels, filled my room. I arose from my bed, and bowed myself before the Lord in solemn prayer, and desired Him, that if that messenger was sent by Him, to make it known to me, by the same messenger; if not, to hide the vision from me. I again, laid on my bed, and soon fell into a deep sleep, (at least it appeared so to me) when at once the same personage appeared by my side, and made known to me some of the same things as before; but he mildly rebuked me for spending my time where I was, He also said, Thou wast foreordained before the foundation of the world, to come forth in this age to assist to build the Kingdom of God upon the earth, and now the time is up. If thou will obey the commandments of God, thy days shall be long on the earth; if not, thy days shall be short, saith the Lord. These words pierced my soul, and I again awoke, and spent the remainder of the night, in deep reflection, and some what grieved in spirit, and at other moments, I rejoiced exceedingly.

On January 29th 1856, (my birth day) I could not attend my studies in College, that heavenly personage and his sayings, occupied my mind. I went to the house of an Elder and procured several books of the Church, I read them for 8 days and nights, till I was about worn out, my strength seemed to have left me. On Friday evening, February 1th 1856, I went home to my parents. I informed my mother, and brother, of my vision and of my intention to unite myself with the Church. They cried bitterly, pleading with me not to do so. They beged [sic] of me, not to inform my father, as he was quite feeble in health, and it might take his life. I obeyed my mother, and did not inform my father at that time. On Feb 2nd 1856, I returned to College. On Sunday evening, Feb 3rd 1856, I attended a meeting of the Latter-day-Saints. I did not attend any meeting of the Baptist Church on that day. On Monday, Feb 4th 1856, I visited Elder John Griffiths, who resided in the town. I also visited him, on Tuesday, Feb. 5th. Several of the Baptist ministers, waited on me, they having heard, that I intended, to unite myself with the Church of Jesus Christ, of Latter-day-Saints. They pleaded with me, not to do so, I firmly informed them, that it was my intention to do it, and gave them my reasons for the course, I was taking. On Wednesday, at 5 P.M., being February 6th 1856, I was rebaptized by Elder Jno. Griffiths, in the tide of the sea, in the town of Haverfordwest, South Wales. At 7:30 P.M. of this date, I was confirmed by the Elders, at a meeting of the Saints. Within five minutes after my confirmation, the Holy Ghost fell upon me in a powerful manner. The house was filled, with the spirit of God. I heard a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the house, in which we sat. All in the house heard it. Thus, we received the same manifestation, in every particular, as was received on the day, of Pentecost. The gift of tongues were also conferred on many present, and one sister had an open vision. I prophesied by the Gift of the Holy Ghost, and afterwards bore my testimony to the Divinity of the work.

My history since the above date is embodied, in this book and other books, hence, I need not repeat here. I married Miss Mary Wride, at Cardiff, South Wales, Feb 8th 1860. (see page 132 of this book. We lived in Nottingham England 16 months, before we emmigrated [sic] to America. I married Miss Jane Cree, at Salt Lake City, October 10th 1865. My first wife is the mother of 9 of my children, and my second wife, is the mother of 11 of them. On the following page, see their names, ages, etc.,

Children of David and Mary Wride John

Children of David and Jane Cree John

Feb. 1856

7 Feb. I remained in Elder Griffith's house all day, and wrote a long letter, conserning [sic] the first principles of the Gospel, to the students of the Baptist College, but never received any answer.

8 Feb. I wrote another impressive letter on the same subject to my Father. I humbly and faithfully bore my testimony to him, but it was not received.

9 Feb. I was at Griffith's house when my mother and Bro. Thomas came to see me about 10 A.M. In consequence of hearing the news that I was baptized they came to see, and found it so, which made them to feel bad, they cried bitterly at times, during the day my mother brang [sic] another 11 to see me, all tried to overcome me but failed.

My mother went to the house of my cousin, John John, and there found my writing-desk, broke it opened, and found in it a Bank Book, containing receipts amounting to about £13 or £14 in my name; she took the Book with her. She also went to the Watchmaker's shop, and took with her my watch; in the evening I went for these articles, but they were gone.

She left me a commandment from my Father never to go near his house during his life. We parted in the afternoon, they went home and I remained where I was.

10 Feb. I was at Haverfordwest all day being Sunday. I attended the prayer meeting, in the morning, sacrament in the afternoon, and preaching in the evening, Elder John Gibbs, and John Griffiths preached.

11 Feb. I occupied the day in reading the "Stars", and Zion's Trumpet, (Udgorn Seion), in the evening attended a prayer meeting.

12 Feb. My cousin Wm. John (now dead) and John Morris Weaver visited me, after a long conversation they concluded, that I was insane.

13 Feb. I wrote a letter to my parents and brof. wrote lengthily on the first principles of the Gospel. Had a long conversation again with John Morris Weaver, his mind was greatly influenced and changed, and he made me a promise to be baptized.

14 Feb. I wrote letters to my uncles Charles John and David John, touching the principles of the Gospel, bore my testimony of them, and recommended them to embrace the same. They never answered them, but Charles (being very pious) told my mother afterwards, that I and my religion was too far beneath his notice, to make any reply.

15 Feb. I visited cousin John John and his wife, there met Wm. Charles an old apostate; had a long conversation conserning [sic] the Gospel and its Doctrines.

16 Feb. Capt. Dan Jones arrived Swansea, and many, Elders and Saints from the country branches, attended council in the evening.

17th [Feb.] Conference was held, attended three meetings, received profitable instructions and found myself blessed during the day. Many attended in the evening.

18th [Feb.] The Conference continued, I presented a piece of poetry to Elder Dan Jones which contained a short account of the persecution we suffered on the 9th inst; which was published in the "Udjohn" a week or two afterwards.

19th [Feb.] Elder Dan returned to Swansea, the Elders and Saints went to their respective holmes [sic]; and I accompanied Elder Thos. Evans, to Letterstone within 2 miles to my father's house.

20th [Feb.] I worked at my trade with Bro. Evans, saw many of my acquaintances, heard that my Bro. Thomas was sick, wrote him a letter.

21st [Feb.] I left Letterstone for Haverfordwest in company with Elder Thos. Evans (wodden [sic] leg) and Sis. Phebe John; on the way met many of my old friends, and had several conversations.

22 Feb. Left Pembrokeshire for Merthyr in company with Elders John Price, Thos. Evans, and E.D. Miles. Arrived at Merthyr in the evening, and saw very many of the Elders.

23 Feb. Conference was held, Captain Dan, delivered a discourse in the morning, and Elders, Whelock, Martin, Atud[?], (American Brethren) spoke in the evening.

24th Feb. Sunday. The Conference continued, held three meetings, during the day, Elders Joseph Young, F.D. Richards, Spencer, Whelock, Martin, Atud[?], Dan Jones, Daniel Daniels, Israel Evans, and Benjamin Ashby spoke. It was appointed Daniel should preside the Welsh Mission and Israel Evans and Ashby to be his counsellors [sic]. The Apostle Franklin D. Richards, spoke influentially on "digging deep" and to "get our faith founded on the principle of revelation." I formed acquaintance with many Elders, and spent my time mostly with Elder Benjamin Evans, Monmouthshire, afterwards the Pres. of the Welsh Mission.

25. Feb. The Conference continued, spoke during the day, many of the same Elders, had a concert in the evening.

26. Feb. Elder John Price and I left for "Morris Town," near Swansea, and lodged in the house of Elder Hopkin Jones.

27. Feb. Left for Swansea, went to the "Udgorn Seion's Office" in the afternoon, and there met Elders, Dan Jones, D. Daniels, F.D. Richards, Whelock, and Joseph Young. Took tea with them. Elders Richards, and Spencer left the town; in the evening attended meeting, Elders Whelock, and Young preached, our Hall was crowded.

28. Feb. Left for Haverfordwest, in the train by going, had a short debate with D. Harries, St. Cleals, conserning [sic] the spiritual gifts.

29. Feb. At Griffith's house H. West all day, engaged in writing and reading.

March 1856

1st March. At the same place, saw and conversed with some of my old acquaintances.

2nd March. Sunday. I attended 3 meetings Haverfordwest, and preached in the evening, the first time, I was ordained a Priest the previous night (1st March) under the hands of Elders Wm. Bowen, John Gibbs, John Griffiths, and E.D. Miles.

3rd March. I spent this day at Elder Griffiths' house, working at my trade.

4th March. In the same place and at the same work.

5th March. Engaged in the same, in the evening attended meetings, the Saints in this Branch were greatly blessed with the spiritual gifts.

6th March. At Griffiths' house at my work.

7th March. At my work all day.

8th March. Engaged in reading and writing, saw many from home, received a letter from home stating that my father was sick, and desirous to see me, before he would die.

9th March. Sunday. Attended 3 meetings at H. West Branch, but felt somewhat grieved conserning [sic] my Father's sickness.

10th March. Left for my Father's house arrived there in the afternoon. Met mother and Bro. with many relations within few yards to the house.

Mother called me and the Saints after nearly every evil and fowl name, so much was her rage this day, 'till all the neighbors gathered around us, and wondered at the spirit manifested. She told me that she did not want to see me "within her door". I told her that if that was the case, that I could return on my way "you sent for me and I came, but now you don't want me to enter the house, so I can return said I. You are at liberty to return said she, by this I returned a few steps, when my Bro. called after me and said, "David don't return, my father sent for you, and he wants to see you, the house belongs to him, not to mother go in, and listen not to her tongue". By this I turned and entered the house, and found my father by the fire side, very sick. "David my child", said he, "you came once more to see your Father, and it makes me glad, he clasped me by the hand, I offered to kiss him, but he refused saying, I can't find it in my heart to kiss you, after you have brought such disgrace upon yourself, upon me, and our family, by joining the Saints. By this my mother again rushed to the house and began saying as before. "Silence" said he, "I won't have it." Said he, "I don't intend to quarrel with you David, it is far from me, I brought you up as I thought was right, in the same faith as myself, 'till you grew up, I have discharged my duties towards you as my child, I have given you much education, for years, and now I feel my conscience void of offense, that I have done my duty, so from this time forth you must answer for your own acts. You have arrived to the years of maturity and you will be responsible for your own deeds in the future. But as I said before so say I again, I don't want to quarrel with you, but this understand, I will not reckon you any longer, as my son, and my house will be no longer a home for you, so remember you must not think to make a home here, but this week you can stay and then go, David David, how hast thou fallen to this disgrace and dishonour", and here he bursted out and cried bitterly for a long time, and my Bro. and I cried with him. But my mother began again to call me, and my father commanded her to quit the room, and she went by and buy. Thus all the evening was spent, 'till bed time.

11th Mrch. I spent at home all day, talked much with my father during the day; the spirit of persecution filled nearly all that came to see me.

12th Mrch. At home all day, met Captain Evans Tregwynt, an old apostate had a long conversation with him.

13th Mrch. At home, had a long talk with David Thomas Shoemaker, he promised me to be baptized. In the evening had a long talk with my uncle Dl. John.

14th Mrch. At home, talked much with my brother, he began to believe some principles of the Gospel.

15th Mrch. I left home in the afternoon, my father felt grievous, he gave me again my watch, on condition that I should keep it, "and not give it to the Mormons". It so happens that this was the last time I saw him alive. I travelled to H. West and attended council there.

16th Mrch. Sunday. Went to Sutton Branch in the afternoon, and H. West in the evening. Elder John Price preached his farewell address before leaving for Zion.

17th Mrch. I spent the day in the company of Elders John Price and E.D. Miles, attended prayer meeting in the evening.

Mrch 18th I spent the day at H. West.

19th [Mar.] I spent the day at Griffiths' house at my work.

20th [Mar.] At the same place and work.

21st [Mar.] Engaged in the same work.

22nd [Mar.] At the same place, saw many from home.

23rd [Mar.] Sunday. I attended 3 meetings at Haverfordwest Branch.

24th [Mar.] I worked all day, attended meeting (prayer) in the evening.

25th [Mar.] At H. West at work.

26th [Mar.] I spent the day the same, attended a Saint's meeting in the evening.

27th [Mar.] Spent the day at work, but every evening engaged in reading, or writing.

28th [Mar.] Spent the day at work again.

29th [Mar.] At H.West, some friends from home visited me, received a note from my bro. stating that my father was very sick and that he should like to see me home to see my Father. In the evening I attended a council, I was called and ordained an Elder, under the hands of Elders E.D. Miles, Bowen, and John Gibbs, Elder Bowen being mouth. I was also appointed to preside over the Fishguard Branch.

30th [Mar.] Sunday. I attended three meetings at H. West, was much troubled in my mind because of my father's sickness.

31st [Mar.] I went to Littlenewcastle in company with Elder Phillips Dell, part of the way. On the way met Richard Richards, a baptist preacher, had a long talk with him at "Cross Inn." Reached home at 2 P.M. and found father dead; he died 2 hours previous to my arrival. I spent the afternoon and evening in much sorrow, with my mother and brother.

In the evening many of my relations and neighbors came to see us, and all seemed united to persecute me; many told me, that I was the cause of my Father's death[!!] But my brother when he saw all united against me, felt sorry for me, and would not join them. I went to bed about mid-night, in grief and sorrow, I never saw the clouds so thick and dark before. I was far from the Saints, and all that surrounded me with a few exceptions, looked upon me, as though I was the murderer of my father. His case laid thus, when I joined the Church, he was unwell, when I joined he believed from his heart, that I did wrong, so it gave pain and anguish to his soul, so much so, that it influenced his mind, that he could not eat, drink nor sleep but little, and so he pined away, believing that I was going head-long to destruction. So he died in about 7 weeks after I joined the Church; and many said that I was the cause of his death. So when I went to rest I had a very remarkable dream, I dreamed that I saw two tall personages, which filled my heart with joy. They told me that they were Joseph and Hyrum Smith, and said one of them. "The Lord has seen thy trouble and the persecution against thee, yea, he has heard thy prayers; thou hast overcome thus far, and power will be given thee to overcome, inasmuch as thou continuest humble and faithful; and the day comes when thou shalt sit with us, and with our God; yea and with Gods higher than our God, says, the Lord", by this I awoke full of the good spirit and gave thanks to God.

April 1856

1st April. At home all day, many of my relations were with us, and the [sic] my uncles of Llys-y-drew and their familys [sic], felt Hellish against me.

2nd April. This day my father was burried in Beulah's Church Yard. Benjamin Owen a Baptist Minister preached in his funeral. My relations accompanied us home from the Church Yard. My uncle Charles John, and I had a discussion on the principle of the pre-existence of man. He gave way soon. My Father's will was read, my name was credited with £ 5,0,0, and all the rest to mother and my brother, some cross words passed conserning [sic] it. My Bro. took my part, offered me the will and told me to burn it, and give them what I pleased, I refused.

3rd April. At home all day, and tried to convert my brother.

4th [Apr.] At home all day.

5th [Apr.] I left for Haverfordwest, many met me on the road, going home from market. Evan Morgans Fynone and wife cursed me over and over again, I kept going, they then stopped the car and shouted after me, and told me over and over that I killed my father. So many were such tales, so I left the road, and walked through the fields for a long time. In the evening attended council at Haverfordwest.

6th April. I attended 3 meetings at H. West (being Sunday) felt myself greatly blessed and refreshed during the day.

7th April. At H. West. attended prayer meeting in the evening.

8th April. Spent this day at H. West.

9th April. Went to Milford Haven, with the immigrants, and meet others, on their way to Zion, they sailed with the Packet to Liverpool. Returned to H. West, and attended meeting in the evening.

10th April. Went to Littlenewcastle

11th April At home all day, talked to my brother and others all the time conserning [sic] the Gospel.

12th April. At home all day.

13th April. Went to Fishguard and attended meetings there, Elder E.D. Miles was with us, we had a good time together all day.

14th April. I spent the most part of the day with Dl. Williams Tailor Fishguard, he believed many of the principles, but his wife was near with evil spirits.

15th April. I returned to my mother's.

16th At home at work.

17th At home working.

18th At home working.

19th At home working at my trade all the week.

20th Went (Sunday) to Fishguard, held a Saint meeting in the afternoon and preached in the evening.

21st I went home to Littlenewcastle.

22nd At home working with my Bro.

23rd At home at work.

24th At home working.

25th At home again at work.

26th I went to Fishguard, held a prayer meeting in the evening, and after re-baptized one John Morris.

27th Sunday. We held 2 meetings at Fishguard, sacrament in the afternoon and preaching in the evening. Returned again home, 7 miles distant.

28th At home working, with my brother.

29th At home working.