In This Issue

iicAo City 6oys Ejj in front of the Courtesy of Robert S. Mikkelsen.

With the centennial celebration of Utah statehood just a little more than a year away, it is appropriate that historians are showing a renewed interest in the events leading to Utah's long-awaited admission to the union of states. Two of the seven attempts to gain statehood came in the 1880s, but for reasons detailed in the first article, Congress was unwilling seriously to consider either. Focusing on territorial governor Caleb West as a conciliator, and using his split terms to gauge the degree of change, the analysis explains how and why the window of 1890-94 was so critical in Utah's history.

While local politicians were seeking statehood in the 80s, an important facet of Utah's "Americanization" was being shaped on an entirely different level: the antipolygamy campaign launched by the federal marshals and judges, subject of the second article Running the gamut from unlawful detentions to violent encounters, these raids colored the social and political climate of the time They promoted a legacy of distrust on both sides and left a touching record of pathos and emotion.

The next selection features a look at one of Utah's most colorful politicians, Frank J. Cannon, and his role in carrying the state's free-silver banner in 1896. His willingness to depart from party allegiance in favor of bimetallism is typical of Utah's electoral behavior in 1896 and goes a long way toward explaining the state's 100-year political traditions.

The final two articles are personal reminiscences. One describes the sights, sounds, earth-rumbling vibrations, and many other enduring memories of a boyhood in one of Utah's busiest and most scenic railroad communities. An award-winning entry in the Utah Arts Council writing competition, it will warm the heart of anyone who has ever harbored a wistful thought of youthful days now gone. The other recalls some amazing World War II experiences by a Utah veteran who managed to find meaning and inspiration in some of life's darkest moments.