Elias Smith - Journal of a Pioneer Editor

Utah Historical Quarterly

Vol. XXI, 1953 No. 4

ELIAS SMITH JOURNAL OF A PIONEER EDITOR March 6, 1859—September 23, 1863 (conclusion)

EDITED BY A. R. MORTENSEN

Sunday [September] 1st [1861].—I was under the necessity to attend to some items of business connected with the occurrences of yesterday which prevented my attending my circle meeting and from being present at the Bowery

Monday 2nd.—This being the day for holding the September term of the County Court I attended at the Court House at 10 AM for that purpose. As soon as there was a quorum present we commenced business and after attending to some items of business a recess was taken till after dinner, during which time I held an examination of the two prisoners (Manhard) arrested on Saturday and held them to bail in the sum of one thousand dollars each for their appearance at the September term of the Probate Court in default of which they were committed to prison

Proceeded with the business of the County Court in the afternoon. Bp Miller staid with us over night and I spent the evening with him very pleasantly

Wednesday 4th.—I was in attendance on the sitting of the County Court till the arrival of the Pony in the afternoon. The dispatch being lengthy, we did not get the regular "Extra" to press till midnight

Thursday 5th.—Having finished the business before the County Court, we adjourned in the afternoon

After having waited till my patience was severely tested for the paper mill to get into operation I had the satisfaction of receiving on sending for it this forenoon twelve reams and some five or six more in the evening I made arrangements immediately to start the press, and it was rolling by four p. M., giving the News establishment a more lively and business like appearance than it has presented for the last eight weeks. I hope it will not soon have to stop again for the want of paper

Friday 6th.—Joshua Arthur who has been with me in the News Office nearly three years having of late given himself up to much intemperence in the use of alcohol in drinks so much so that I could not endure it and having absented himself to day when his services if he had been sober were needed, I engaged George Keaton to take his place sorry nevertheless that I was compeled to do so but I have tried to persuade him to reform without success till satisfied that it was useless to at present to make further efforts. I was in my sanctum most of the day preparing for the issuing of another number of the Deseret News

President Young accompained by Prest Wells Elder G. A. Smith, G. D. Watt, F. W. Ellerbeck J. Nebeker R. J. Golding T. McKean and a few others started for Cache County about ten in the morning.

Saturday 7th.—I was quite busy in the forenoon The Pony arrived about one P. M. with a short unimportant dispatch which we published nevertheless

Sunday 8th.—I met with my circle at the usual hour then went to the News office and remained during the day all hands having to work in order to publish another number on Wednesday next hoping there after to be able to keep in operation without being compelled again to suspend

Monday 9th.—Commenced the September term of Probate Court for Great Salt Lake County at 10 A. M. A Grand jury consisting of the following named citizens previously summoned was empannelled sworn and charged to inquire into offences against the criminal laws of the Territory within the limits of the county and its attached Territory viz Levi Jackman, W. L. Brundage, Chapman Duncan, Samuel Varney, Harlow Redfield Wandle Mace, David Pettegrew, Solon Foster, Absalom P. Free, Samuel L. Sprague Manly Barrows, John Smith Samuel Bennion, William J. Perkins and Daniel Tyler Levi Jackman was appointed foreman In the course of the day they faced ten bills of indictment against John Ormond for the assault with intent to kill one John Reynolds on the 16th day of July last; Charles and Truelove Manhard for robbery, and larceny committed on the 16th of August by which one John Love was the sufferer, and against William Cockroft for the murder of Robert Brown on the 31st of July.

Ormond was brought into court and his case set for hearing on Wednesday. The two Manhards were arraigned plead not guilty and demanded an immediate trial which was had that evening resulting in a verdict of guilty punishment fifteen years imprisonment in the Penitentiary

Tuesday 10th.—The Prisoner Cockroft was brought into court and his trial set for Wednesday on the next in order after that of Ormond The prisoners Manhard's received their sentence in accordance with the verdict of the jury A case of the people of the County vs W. G. White for selling liquor without license was called up and disposed of by a judgment against defendent for one hundred dollars and costs

In a similar suit, brought by the prosecuting attorney, Mr. Miner, against William Howard for manufacturing and selling liquor without complying with the laws was called up and a judgement of eighty dollars rendered against defendant

The Grand Jurors were discharged on the adjournment of the Court in the afternoon on their report that they had disposed of all the matters before them

I was attending to my editorial duties all night without rest or sleep in order to get the News ready for delivery in the morning. The hands being behind with the work in consequence of my absence from my post as editor which I could not supply by a substitute

Wednesday 11th.—In Court. The case of the People vs John Ormond for assault with intent to kill was tried the Jurors William G. Perkins, Charles Crisman, Adam Spires, Albert Miles, Joseph Brown, Samuel D. Serrine, Edward T. Mumford, P. B. Lewis, William Jennings, Joseph Knight, George A. Willson & William V. Morris Verdict "guilty", punishment fifteen months imprisonment and twenty five dollars fine The case of the people vs William Cockroft for the murder of Robert Brown was called and the jury empannelled and sworn their names were Brigham Y. Hampton, Joseph Knight, George A. Willson, William V. Morris, William G. Perkins, John Hoagland, Philip B. Lewis, John Vance jr. & Samuel D. Serrine regular jurors and Phineas Richards Abraham Hoagland and Samuel Turnbow talesmen.

Thursday 12th.—The case of the People vs Cockroft was tried and terminated at a quarter past ten in the evening by a verdict of "Guilty" of murder in the first degree

I was extremely weary on retiring to rest and glad of the opportunity

Friday 13th.—In Court. Passed sentence upon Ormond in the forenoon and upon Cockroft in the afternoon, ordering that he should suffer the penalty of the law by being shot on the 21st instant between the hours of two and five P. M

Saturday 14th.—Held Court in the forenoon to hear the record read and to do some few items of business. A Miners Esq resigned his commission as prosecuting Attorney for the County in anticipation of going to Uinta with a company selected to make a settlement there. In the afternoon at 5 o clock had an other sitting having taken a recess from 10 morning till that hour. Decided a chancery case for the foreclosing of a mortgage given by one Levi A. Abrams to A. W. Babbit in his life time. Suit brought by W. I. Appleby administrator of the Estate. Order for sale made: Also heard and decided a divorce case Sarah Jane Tobin vs John Tobin. Divorce decreed.

Sunday 15th.—Went to my circle in the morning but was not well and besides I was very tired having set up till a late hour last night to get out an Extra the last that will be published for some time.

Monday 16.—J. S. Davis commenced working in the office as a typo once more. I spent the day in my sanctum. In the afternoon issued a warrant for the arrest of one John Mellen accused of stealing nails from the Tabernacle. On his arrest inquired into the matter and set the trial for Tuesday afternoon to which time the Court was adjourned on Saturday

Tuesday 17th.—Held Court in the afternoon Mellen plead guilty to stealing the nails about twenty pounds. Fined him fifty dollars after hearing the evidence.

Sat up all night to get out the News

Wednesday 18th.—I was weary and sick but kept about most of the day and till late at night in order to get the papers mailed

Saturday 21st.—In the after [noon] went to the Court house and was there at the execution of Cockroft but did not witness it

Tuesday 24th.—Was unable to get to press till after midnight and being sick had to go home before reading the revised proof.

Saturday 28th.—Engaged much the same as on yesterday. The Pony did not come from the East till late at night

Sunday 29th.—The pony express was read at the Presidents School House 9 in the morning at which reading I was present and as it was meeting time when the reading was completed I did not go to my circle meeting but when [sic] home to my breakfast and then went to my editorial room

Wednesday [October] 2nd.—Held Court in the afternoon. A case between Cummings & Jones and Howard & Bowring came up for investigation, but there was but little progress made in the premises.

Thursday 3rd.—Stormy. The mountains covered with snow to their base and there was some considerable of an amount fell in the valley—but it melted as fast as it fell The suit between Cummings & Jones and Howard and Bowring progressed slowly. A jury was called to try the case and a verdict was rendered at about ten in the evening. On its rendition H Stout Esqr. Counsel for plaintiffs gave notice that a motion to set aside the verdict would be filed on the meeting of the Court next morning. The annual fair commenced

Friday 4th.—'The motion of which notice was given last evening was filed and argued at some length and from the nature of the case I was forced to sustain it set aside the verdict and granted a new trial After some considerable delay in the matter in endeavoring to compromise the parties agreed to submit it to the court upon certain conditions by them agreed upon in relation to evidence and five p m set for hearing the additional testimony I took the matter under advisement after hearing all the evidence adduced and the speeches of the parties and adjourned court till five P. M. next day

Saturday 5.—At the hour appointed I rendered judgement in the case which will probably end litigation concerning it as neither party will appeal the morning Visited the fair with my little boys in

Sunday 6.—The Semi-annual Conference commenced There was a vast concourse of people in attendance and at our house we had an unusual number of visitors, [illegible] Coleman wife child and Indian girl, Bishop Evans and his wife, Rebeca, Jesse J. Fuller, Amy Jane's mother and brother among the number

After going to my circle meeting in the morning I went to the News office and remained there till after meeting in the afternoon when I went to the Presidents School room to hear the Express read; the pony having arrived about two p. m. with a dispatch from Pacific springs 11 to which place the telegraph is completed The dispatch was printed which took till about one o clock next morning. I was very tired on going to bed and a little out of sorts withal

Monday 7th.—I was very busy in the News Office doing business with divers persons, but was very ill, especially in the afternoon and went home sick in the evening

Thursday 10th.—I engaged Jesse J. Fuller to take care of and wait upon bro M. F. Wilkie a few days as he was failing very fast and his mother was nearly worn out in waiting on him constantly almost day and night Engaged much the same as on yesterday Published a Pony dispatch

Saturday 12th.—A dispatch came in my mail last night which was printed this forenoon

Sunday 13th.—'The Pony arrived from the East this morning about 8 o clock with another dispatch which we reprinted The News by these dispatches has not been very important of late

Monday 14th.—At twenty minutes past five this morning Matthew Forbes Wilkie who has been sick a long time and had been at my house most of the time since Oct 12 1859 the day of his last arrival from California died, an event long expected to occur before the setting in of winter. He came to this Territory in the year 1854, and about the first of January 1855 entered the Deseret News office as a compositor where he continued to work till the following May when with Geo. Q. Cannon and Joseph Bull he went to San Francisco Cal. and assisted in printing the book of Mormon in the Hawian language. He contin[u]ed in San Francisco with Elder Cannon after the Book of Mormon was published working in the Standard Office till the spring of 1857 when his health being such he was forced to leave the office and spent the Summer travelling and preaching in California and Carson Valley and came from there when the Saints returned in the fall of that year

He worked some in the news office during the fall and winter but spent most of his time in the mountains with the force that were watching the army of the U. S. sent out by Buchanan to distroy the saints When the News Office was moved South in the spring of 1858 he went with the hands to Parowan and from there to San Francisco again from which place he returned to Great Salt Lake City on the 12th day of October 1859 in poor health and continued thereafter to waste away gradually untill death released him from his sufferings. His disease was consumption

Tuesday 15th.—Attended to the interment of the deceased after getting out a dispatch in the forenoon The weather beautiful

Wednesday 16th.—Published a dispatch from the East in the morning and held court in the afternoon and heard and ruled on a motion for an execution to issue in the case of Cummings and Jones vs Howard & Bowring in which case a judgement was obtained on the 15th instant and bond subsequently filed for stay of execution tho insufficiently of the bond being the matter in question A suit commenced by Staines Needham & Co vs J. M. Bollwinckel in debt was dismissed on motion for insufficiency of complaint and a case Chambers vs Bollwinckel in replevin was heard and determined. Spent the evening with my family at home

Friday 18th.—Held a session of Court in the afternoon and disposed of one or two divorce cases adjourning to Friday 25th inst. The telegraph line from the Missouri river to Great Salt Lake City was completed yesterday and this morning the First message was sent over it which was from President Brigham Young to Hon. J. A. Wade of Cleveland Ohio President of the Pacific telegraph Company Numerous other messages were sent and were received in the course of the day among which was a dispatch for the News which was printed immediately

Saturday 19th.—A very busy day with me as some more paper was received and preparations were made for publishing another number of the News after a suspension of three weeks

Tuesday 22.—After working deligently all day to get the 24th number of the News to press I had to continue my labor through the night in order to accomplish what ought to have been done sooner but could not under the circumstances.

Wednesday 23.—There was a great rush for the papers at [sic] it was with difficulty that they were printed as fast as called for, and there was only bro Keaton and myself to attend to the work of distribution including the folding. Retired to rest at 10 o clock in the evening exceedingly weary having much work unaccomplished

Thursday 24.—The Telegraphic dispatch today announced the death of Col E. D. Baker of Oregon, Senator in Congress and an officer in the Army He was killed in a fight between the Federal and Confederate Armies at Edwards Ferry Virginia on the 21st of October

In the evening shortly before 7 o clock the Western portion of the Pacific Telegraph having been completed a message was sent over it to Hon H. W. Carpenter Prest. of the Company in San Francisco by President Brigham Young which was replied to soon after. President Youngs message was dated at 6:50 p m and the reply at 6 P. M.

The wires were used all night in sending messages to Friends from California to the States and from th[e] States to California and from Great Salt Lake City East and west and visa versa. It was a time of general rejoicing with all interested in the great enterprises

Friday 25th.—A Special session of the county court was held which I attended but not till afternoon having much business to do in the forenoon among which was the printing of a very important dispatch from the seat of war in Virginia &C.

Tuesday 29th.—Held court in the afternoon. One or two cases were disposed of, but a suit between Charles Crisman and Staines Needham & Co involving several thousand dollars was not so easily moved forward the parties not being ready for trial so it was adjourned till next day at 10 a m.

Wednesday 30th.—In Court from 10 am till evening excepting a short recess at noon The case commenced yesterday was called up and the entire day consumed in making dilatory pleas without joining issue and it was at length dismissed and the Court adjourned till Tuesday November 5th at 10 A. M.

Tuesday [November] 5th.—Held Court. There was only one case tried which took all day and till in the evening, and that was a matter between Charles Crisman and Staines Needham & Co the same that was dismissed on Friday last. The Plaintiff having commenced anew A Jury was called to try the issue There verdict was in favor of Plaintiff for some thirty three hundred dollars

Wednesday 6th.—There were more than a few called at the News Office for papers and I felt grieved that circumstances were such that the News could not be published for want of paper and that I was obliged to say no to the many who inquired if the papers were published to day.

There were two telegrames received from the East, one in the forenoon which was printed shortly and the other in the evening which was set up but not completed till a late hour at night. The civil war is progressing rapidly and the nation seems to be sorely vexed

Saturday 9th.—Held court and heard & decided a case Soffe vs Matthews, which occupied most of the day

Monday 11th.—A very windy day, the sand and dust moving about almost to suffocation. A short telegraphic dispatch was received in the evening, the first since Fryday last as the wires have been down at some point on the Platte

Tuesday 12th.—Published a telegraphic dispatch part of which was received last evening and some this morning or afternoon. Nothing very important but it is evident that the naval fleet that went south from the Chesapeake the last of October have entered Port Royal harbor South Carolina and captured the forts at the entrance of the bay

Wednesday 13th..—The wires came down again and there was no communication from the seat of war The weather somewhat cool but pleasant for the season.

Thursday 14th.—A beautiful day. Isaac Hardman commenced hauling rock to finish stoning up my well. A short telegram from the east received in the afternoon confirmatory of the taking of forts Beauregard and Walker at the entrance of Port Royal Harbor South Carolina by the Federal forces about one week since. The event has caused great rejoicing in the Country

Friday 15th.—I was nearly sick, having a severe cold. Printed two dispatches.

Saturday 16th,—There was one dispatch printed late in the day after which there was another received which I thought best to lay over and print on Sunday morning

Sunday 17.—We had no circle meeting as the house was occupied in giving endowments There were so many came from

Sanpete and Cache Counties to receive their endowments on Friday and Saturday that it was impossible to get through with them all and Prest Young thought best to devote Sunday to that purpose as the persons were anxious to return home as soon as possible. Most of the day in the office

Monday 18.—The telegraph wires were down at some point East of Laramie and there was no communication from Uncle Samdom during the day somewhat stormy Snowing in the mountains and blowing in the valley

Tuesday 19th.—The wires were in operation and a telegram was received in the afternoon The war progressing Held court in the forenoon. The case of Camp vs. Camp in Divorce was called and after some arrangements were agreed upon by the parties it was continued till Saturday the 30th inst

Wednesday 20th.—A stormy uncomfortable day and I was nearly sick with the cold I have had for many days. Two short telegrams were received containing however but little intelligence and were [blank]

Thursday 21st.— A short dispatch was received in the forepart of the day but not of sufficient importance to justify its publication after which the wires were out of order eastward and there was no communication from the seat of war that day

Saturday 23rd.—The wires yet down.

Sunday 24th.—Met with my circle and then spent part of the day publishing a dispatch received in the morning Went to the Ward meeting in the evening

Thursday 28th.—Sent a team to the paper mill with a load of rags from the Tithing Store House. There has been so much falling weather of late that the roads are exceedingly muddy.

Friday 29th.—The uncovering of the Temple foundation was commenced which together with large company of stonecutters at work on the Temple Block made quite a show indicative of better days for the saints than those in which the work on the Temple was discontinued in consequence of the invasion of Utah by the Army of the United States in 1857

The roads are so muddy, that the teams that have been hauling stone for the Temple for sometime quit work till the roads become passable or more suitable for travelling than they now are

Sent another load of rags to the paper mill from the Tithing store house

Saturday 30.—Held court and heard the evidence and argument in the case of Camp vs Camp in Divorce which was continued from the 19th and in a case between Houtz & Bringhurst and Philander Bell

Monday [December] 2.—I went to the Court House at 11 A M and delivered my decision in the Divorce case before the Court on Saturday and also in the case of Houtz & Bringhurst which I held under advisement.

Thursday 5th.—I was attending the session of the County Court during the day The President Message was received by telegraph early this morning but I was not prepared for putting it in type this day, as I was of necessity compelled to be in attendance at the Court and could not prepare it for the compositors

Friday 6th.—At about half past eight in the evening having disposed of what business there was before the Court an adjournment was taken till the 23rd of January next to enable the Assessor and collector to complete his collection and be prepared for setting up his accounts with the County Court The message was set up but not printed

Saturday 7th.—Printed the message I had no relaxation from the cares of business during the day and I did not accomplish all that I desired for the want of time

Monday 9th.—Commenced the December session of the Probate Court and heard and determined two divorce cases Sarah Littlewood vs Martin Littlewood and Eliza Beckwith vs A. S. Beckwith Court adjourned till Saturday the 14th at 10 A M

After Court was adjourned I went to the Council Chamber of Legislature which assembled this day for the holding of the 11th Annual session and by request and administered the usual oath to the members of the Council and the officers elect for the Present Session From the Council Chamber by invitation I went to the Representatives Hall and administered the oath of office to the Members and officers of the branch of the Legislature. The balance of the day after performing the aforesaid duties I spent in the News office

Tuesday 10.—I attended at the Representative Hall during the joint Session of the Assembly and heard the Governor's Message read by himself after which I returned to my office and attended to the duties thereof the remainder of the day

Thursday 12.—The signs being favorable I am preparing to re-commence publishing the News

Monday 16th.—Received a quantity of paper from the Mill which was a very desirable sight to behold and things look more like olden times than they have of late about the office I was in my Sanctum till late at night

Tuesday 17th.—Pushed every thing about the office as hard as I could in order to get the News out in season and as the boys were a little behind with the work I remained in the office all night to accomplish my purpose in which I succeeded satisfactorily

Wednesday 18.—got the paper to press but not as early as I intended. The report that the publication of the Deseret News had again commenced spread through the City like wild fire and there was a tremendous rush at the office at an early hour in the day and the papers were taken away about as fast [as] they were struck off I did not retire to rest till after midnight. H. B. Bennet arrived from Fillmore

Tuesday 24th.—The Legislature Adjourned till the 3rd day of January next. Despite all my exertions I was behind hand in getting the papers to Press

Wednesday 25th.—After getting matters arranged in the office so that the clerks could prepare the papers for the mail I went home and endeavored to get a nap but did not succeed to my satisfaction. In the evening with Lucy & Amy Jane I attend the Legislative Ball at the Social Hall where I met with most of the members of the Legislative Assembly and many others among whom were some of the Federal officers, Mail agents, Telegraph operators

Thursday 26th.—I assisted the clerks in delivering the papers to the city subscribers who called for them so rapidly that we could not get them from the press fast as they wanted them

After getting the papers distributed I took a sleep

Friday 27th.—Attended a Union Festival in the evening at the Social Hall which had been arranged by the City, County and Territorial officers. It was one of the best of the season with whom all present were well pleased

Tuesday 31st.—I was in my sanctum early and late and then did not get the News ready for press till after Midnight and thus passed away another eventful year in my history

January, 1862

Wednesday 1st.—I closed the office doors the same as on Christmas day and worked at folding papers and preparing them for the mail as some of them whose business it properly was to do them up wished to spend the day in amusements It was after midnight when the work of mailing was finished as the papers could not sooner be struck off. The pressmen and others who assisted in getting the work done were extremely tired when the labors of the day finished.

Thursday 2d.—The rush for papers was great as soon as the office doors were opened and it kept all hands busy to supply the demand till sometime after twelve o clock at noon

Monday 6th.—Attended the mass meeting of the citizens at the Tabernacle held to take into consideration the propriety of holding a convention for the adoption of a constitution and State government. The plan was unanimously approved of and the delegates of which I was one were appointed, the others were D. H. Wells, A. O. Smoot, Reuben Miller, James Ferguson, Wilford Woodruff, Archibald Gardner, Albert Carrington and John Taylor. The convention to meet on the 20th instant at the Court House in this City

Wednesday 8th.—The rush for papers was the same as it has been for the last few weeks

Monday 13th.—The Legislative Assembly being near the close of its session the members begin to work in good earnest I issued warrants for the arrest of Lot Huntington, Isaac Neibaur, Moroni Clawson, Wood Reynolds and Jason John M. and Wilford Luce on the affidavit of Tillotson for the assault on Governor J. W. Dawson at Mountain Dell on the night of Dec 31s

Tuesday 14.—five of the foregoing persons were arrested and lodged in jail, but Clawson and Huntington could not be found Another warrant was issued for the arrest of Lot Huntington and John P. Smith on a charge of theft as alleged as circumstances pointed them out as the individuals who a day or two previous stole eight hundred dollars from an employee of the Overland Mail Company. Search was made for them but it was subsequently ascertained that they fled from the city on Tuesday evening. Stole an animal from John Bennion at Jordan Mills, then went to Draper and took Clawson with them and moved westward by way of Fort Crittenden

Wednesday 15.—After assisting in the distributing of the News in the forenoon I commenced the examination of the prisoners arrested on Tuesday, but in consequence of the absence of witnesses I did not get through with the examination.

Thursday 16th.—Held court all day for the trial of civil cases, mostly in which the late and present merchants of this city were parties. A divorce case Harris vs Harris was also heard and determined by a dissolution of the bonds of matrimony.

In the afternoon heard by telegraph of the arrest of Moroni Clawson and John P. Smith at Faust's station, Rush vally early this morning by O. P. Rockwell and a posse of four men from Gardner's Mill and that in an attempt to escape Huntington was killed

Friday 17th.—Rockwell arrived in the city with his prisoners before daylight in the morning, and on getting out of the Stage at Townsend's hotel he placed them in charge of some policemen to take to the jail, but before they had proceeded far in an attempt to escape Clawson and Smith were both shot and killed I inquired into the matters of homicide on the return of the writs and fully came to the conclusion that the officers were fully justified in all that they had done After disposing of the dead men and giving orders for their interment I resumed the examination of the prisoners and after examining all the witness that had been subpoenaed I required Jason and Wilford Luce and Wood Reynolds to give bonds in the sum of one thousand dollars each and J. M. Luce and Isaac Neibaur in the Sum of five hundred dollars each for their appearance at the March term of the Court to answer further in the premises which the two latter and Wood Reynolds complied with, but Jason and Wilford Luce could not find responsible men who would file their bail bonds In the evening after disposing of the prisoners as above stated I went up into the Representatives Hall and remained there till the session closed which was a few minutes before eleven O clock

Monday 20.—I attended the Constitutional Convention at the Court House as a Delegate from Great Salt Lake County and had the honor of being one of the committee of five appointed to draft a constitution for the State of Deseret for the consideration of the convention. At the close of the session on this day an adjournment was taken till Wednesday the 22 at 1 P M On a Warrant issued by me for the arrest of Thomas Miller on the affidavit of Henry Heath, the said Miller was taken into custody by the sheriff he was accused of having received and [illegible] stolen property. It was late in the day when the arrest was made and I did not examine into the alleged offence that evening as I was extremely busy in preparing the News for publication

Tuesday 21st.—I was more than busy and did not much in drafting the Constitution. George A Smith, the Chairman Albert Carrington Zerubbabel Snow and John Taylor the other members of the committee doing most of the work

Wednesday 22d.—After getting things properly arranged at the Printing office I went to the Court House and proceeded with the examination of Thomas Miller till the hour of Meeting of the Convention and after the adjournment concluded the investigation, and discharged the prisoner as no very strong evidence was given against him

Thursday 23.—The constitution presented by the committee on yesterday, having been adopted by the unanimous vote of the Delegates and ordered to be engrossed was reported ready for receiving the Signatures of the members on the assembling of the convention at 1 P M The instrument was read and signed Speeches made by Judge Kinney the President of the Convention. Hon D. H. Wells and others after which the convention dissolved.

The officers of the convention were Hon D. H. Wells, President, William Clayton Secretary and Patrick Lynch and Robert L. Campbell Assistant Secretaries; Robert T. Burton Sergeant at Arms; Andrew Cunningham Foreman John W. Woolly Doorkeeper and James F. Allred Assistant Doorkeeper, David P. Kimball Messenger and Henry Heath Assistant messenger

After the adjournment I made some inquires into an alleged violation of law by Isaac Neibaur who had been arrested on a warrant issued by me in the forenoon upon the affidavit of John W Ely accusing him with others confederate, the same individuals who assaulted Gov. Dawson of having stolen an over coat from him on the night of the assault. On being brought before me he confirmed having the coat and told where had deposited it.

Friday 24th.—Neibaur accompained by two officers went over the Little Mountain on the Mail route and got the coat in question returning just at dark

Saturday 25th.—A pleasant day. I had plenty of business on hand. Finished the investigation of Neibaur's case and held him to bail again in the sum of five hundred dollars for his appearance at the next term of Court

Monday 27.—I was as usual preparing for the publication of the News during the day and in the evening attended a Military party at the 14 Ward New Buildings with Lucy. Had a pleasant time and a fine party which all seemed to enjoy

The City was thrown into the greatest excitement by the discovery of grave robbery operation which had been carried on for upwards of two years by one John Baptiste an employee of Col Little city sexton. The horrible deed was brought to light by the disinterment of the body of Moroni Clawson who was killed in attempt to escape from arrest on the morning of the 17th instant. The clothes had been taken from the body and suspicion resting upon Baptiste, his house was searched and a large amount of grave clothes were found which he subsequently acknowledged that he had taken from the dead by disinterring the bodies after burial. The Monster was arrested and placed in jail otherwise the populace wo[u]ld have torn him in pieces such was the excitement produced by the unheard of occurrence.

Tuesday 28th.—It was late at night when the News was ready for press nearly morning

Wednesday 29th.—The rush to the office for papers was as great as ever and it was with difficulty that they could be struck off as fast as called for

Saturday February 1st.—Finished the investigation of Henry Angle and William Eachols arrested at Deep Creek California Mail Route on sundry charges for stealing, two of which were substantiated so clearly on the investigation commenced on Thursday and continued for witnesses till to day, that I required them to give bail in the sum of eight hundred dollars each for their appearance at Court on the 10th of March next in default thereof to be confined in the county prison.

After having disposed of that matter I had John Baptiste out of his cell and heard his statements as to how he came to engage in the business of robbing the dead and his confession as to the extent to which he had carried the operation. According to his ackowledgement he had robbed many graves, but how many he could not or would not tell

Wednesday 5.—I assisted the clerks in distributing and handing out the papers for which there was the usual demand In the evening attended with my family a party at the Court House got up by the county and city officials and most of those invited were of the "Working Men's party". It was decidedly the best party I have attended this winter had supper at Townsend's Hotel which in point of style and quality could not well be excelled

Thursday 6th.—In the news office in the forenoon at the Court House in the forenoon at the Court House in the afternoon with Mayor Smoot, Sheriff Burton, Alderman Clinton Capt Cunningham and W. A. Hickman holding a Consultation meeting at the request of the latter who feels a little alarmed at certain reports in circulation of late, and in the evening I attended a social party of High Priests at the Social Hall with my wives and enjoyed myself vastly.

Saturday 8th.—Crowded with business and was late in getting out the dispatches. Engaged a new hand—William Adams, whose business it is to be to set the dispatches (telegrahes) hereafter

Sunday 9th.—Attended my circle meeting in the morning and then spent the Sabbath as usual this winter

Got a sound thrashing, as reported, from President Young in the tabernacle for being dilatory with the business devolved upon me, which I might have deserved but think not. Some tattling, lying spirit having accused me of what I have never done, and of leaving undone what I never did when I could reasonably avoid it to the President. To which I have to say The Lord judge between me and those who have thus accused me and reward every man according to his works

Tuesday 11.—Labored deligently to get the "News" ready for press

Wednesday 12.—After helping the boys & clerks to distribute the papers I took a snoose and in the evening went to a select party at the Social Hall with Amy Jane and spent the time till 12 o clock exceedingly pleasantly.

Friday 14th.—Attended the Printers festival at the Social Hall with Lucy and her daughter Emily Jane. Sophine Fuller S Caroline Sehmblin who has boarded with us this winter and attended school. The Party was one of the best I have attended this winter & the best Festival of the type I ever attended. Presidents Young, Kimball & Wells were there and other friends of the Craft, which made the boys feel first rate, never better

Tuesday 18th.—Despite all my exertions I was late in getting to press

Wednesday 19th.—I was not well but assisted in distributing the papers, then took a nap after which I worked in the office till one o clock at night in making up packages for the mails

Saturday 22.—A very windy day chilly air but thawing a little Geo. W. Gee came down from Provo to make us a visit. I was in the office till late getting out a dispatch

Wednesday 26.—Helped to distribute and mail the papers which took till after midnight

Thursday 27.—Held court for the hearing of several suits between late and present mercantile firms in this city. These suits were heard and determined two by juries and one by the court. The last case took till midnight to dispose of It was between W. F. Dyer 6 Co 6 Gilbert & Gerrish The sum claimed and for which verdict was given was over seven thousand dollars

Friday 28.—An adjourned term of the County Court was held at which I was present and presided Not being able to accomplish all the business necessary to be done an adjournment was taken till next day at 10 A M

Monday [March] 3rd—The First general election under the constitution was held throughout Utah—Deseret—It was a stormy day but there was a very general attendance in this city at the polls

Tuesday 4th.—I did not attend the county Court as I was behind with the News which took me all day and all night to get ready for press.

Wednesday 5th.—Held court empannelled swore and charged the grand jury and then took a recess till afternoon During the recess I was attending the County Court and assisted in finishing up the business of that court which adjourned till the 1st Monday the 5th day of May. After the adjournment in the afternoon of the Probate Court till Thursday at 10 AM I assisted E. W. East Esqr Clerk of the Probate and County Courts for G. S. L. County to canvas part of the election returns. We continued our labors till 10 o clock in the evening, when we adjourned till next day. The returns from the precincts not having all been received

Thursday 6th.—The Grand Jury returned two bills of indictment against William Eachols and Henry Angle for larceny one for stealing an ox and the other for stealing a mule. On the first they were arraigned plead "Not Guilty" were tried and found guilty by the jury who were empannelled to try the case While the jury was out, a recess of the court was taken during which I helped the clerk finished canvassing the election returns and made an abstract for the Secretary of the convention as provided for by the constitution

After the rendition of the verdict by the jury I discharged the traverse jurors in attendance upon the court till Monday the 17th at 10 AM and adjourned court till next day at the usual hour

The Court over I went home and with Lucy and my little daughter Lucy Elizabeth and my nephew Amos B. and Asahel L. Fuller went to the dedication of the New theater by invitation from President B. Young. There was a snow storm in the afternoon which made the streets very muddy but the Theater was filled to its utmost capacity

After the dedicatory service and ceremonies were performed the dramatic company favoured the audience with an exhibition of the popular Comedy "The Pride of the Market" which was creditably performed and all returned home pleased with the services of the dedication and with the "play"

On Wednesday the 5th yesterday according to previous arrangements We commenced moving the News office from the Council House where it has been since 185 [1] excepting during the summer of 1857 during the move South when the News was printed at Fillmore, to the Deseret Store so called into the room occupied by the News establishment in 1851-2-3-4 and where the 2d 3d and part of the 4th volumes of the News was published which room has been recently fitted up for the purpose. The whole force of the office was engaged both yesterday and today in removing the fixtures of the office without completing the work The business office will not be moved for a few days as the room intended for that purpose is not yet completed

Friday 7th.—Held court in the forenoon and passed sentence upon Eachols and Angle convicted for Larceny yesterday. The afternoon I was in my office part of the time

Saturday 8th.—Held Court. The Grand Jury presented one bill of indictment against Irvine Fisher for pettit larceny, stealing some shingle timber after which I discharged them till Monday the 17th at 10 AM to give the District Court a chance to operate

Wednesday 12th.—Issued the 37th number of Vol 11 Deseret News for which there was an unusual call by city subscribers

The Office hands commenced moving the News office fixtures from the Council House to the Building heretofore known as the Deseret Store which has been fitted up for the purpose that is the second and Third stories the same as used for the printing office in 1851 2, 3 6 A.

Thursday 13th.—Continued the moving operation getting over the Printing presses fixing up 6c.

Friday 14th.—The room intended for the sanctum not being in readiness I continued in my room in the Council House but things were in such confusion that I could not do much business

Saturday 15.—Spent the day in the discharge of various duties, giving directions about fitting up things in our new location &C.

Sunday 16th.—Met with my circle and then went to my room in the Council House to see about distributing and mailing some Telegraphic Dispatches

The wires which got out of order on the 5th on the line eastward got in operation again on the 14th and continued to operate till this evening when they failed again. The emigrants it was said burned up some of the poles on the Platte in a snow storm which occured there

Met with the Mayor 6 some of the city authorities at the City Hall on business in the evening

Monday 17th.—Held Court pursuant to adjournment. The Grand Jury presented bills of indictment against Frank Matthews for larceny, against Wood Reynolds, Jason Luce, Isaac Neibaur, John M. Luce and Wilford Luce for assault, Isaac Neibaur and John M. Luce for larceny and against Wilford Luce for larceny. Having no further matters for consideration the Grand Jury was discharged

Reynolds, Neibaur and the three Luces were arraigned. Reynolds and Jason R. Luce plead guilty, the other three not guilty The jury found Wilford Luce guilty and assessed a fine of fifty dollars as the punishment The other two I. Neibaur and J M Luce were found not guilty and were discharged but shortly after arrested on a warrant issued on the indictment for larceny and arraigned again Neibaur pleading guilty and Luce not guilty of the charges preferred. Their trial was set for Wednesday. Wood Reynolds was fined $25 dollars and Jason R. Luce fifty dollars by me on hearing the evidence in relation to their guilt. Adjourned court till the 19th.

Tuesday 18th.—Being out of paper the news which was nearly ready for the Press remained in statu [s] quo waiting for the manufacturer

Wednesday 19.—Held court. John M. Luce was tried and found guilty and sentenced by the jury to six months imprisonment and Wilfor[d] Luce was also put upon trial on the charge of larceny found guilty and required to serve one year in the Penitentiary. I also inquired into the extent of Neibaurs guilt and sentenced him to fifteen months imprisonment

At an evening session I passed Sentence on John M Luce and Wilford Luce in accordance with the verdict of the jury in their cases respectively

Adjourned court till Saturday the 22d

Thursday 20.—Got the paper from the mill and made ready for the printing no 38 of the current volume of the News having date of the 19th

Friday 21st.—Busy disposing of the papers to those who were hungry for the news. There was a rush for them as soon as it became known that they were printed

Saturday 22.—Held Court. Fisher was tried and acquitted. I then heard and disposed of two divorce cases Avery vs Avery and Davis vs Davis and adjourned court for one week or till Saturday the 29th at 2 P M

During the session beside the matters I have mentioned others were attended to including a divorce case Shoplin vs Shoplin &C &C.

Sunday 23d.—After meeting with my circle I went to my sanctum in the New establishment into which I moved on Thursday last and spent most of the day there preparing for the next issue

September, 1863

Friday 18th.—Since the 23 day of March, 1862 nearly one year and a half in consequence of receiving a somewhat severe lecture from President Young who from some untruthful reports had been led to believe that I was not that attentive to my public duties, as in duty bound and that among other things I spent too much time in keeping a journal (about five minutes each day) I have not made any special memorandum of the daily occurrences and incidents of life, as I had been want for many years before, not that I felt or believed that I had not the right to devote that much time to my own private or personal affairs but because I did not wish to do any thing that would offend A change in my labors has now taken place, for between nine and ten o clock this evening, I received a note from Prest B. Young informing me that my connection with the News office had terminated, consequently I am now at liberty to write a letter occasionally to a friend, and make some notes of my history as time wears away, which may refresh my memory in after days concerning my labors and toils, as well as to the transpiration of events affecting my temporal affairs, which bid fair to be of importance to me under existing circumstances

Saturday 19.—In accordance with the instructions received from President Young, I turned over the News Office and all its appurtenances to Professor Albert Carrington as early in the day as convenient and took leave of the concern after having been connected with it nearly twelve years, during most of which time I have had charge of, and managed its finances and for the last four and a half years have, in addition to the business department of the establishment edited the Deseret News for better or worse. After leaving the office I, of course, had some sober refflections in relation to the matters for I did not exactly know what influences had brought about the change, not that I cared anything about it, if it had been deemed for the good of the saints and there had no one been seeking to tarnish my reputation for uprightness of purpose and honesty of action, as I had some reasons for believing was the case from what I had seen and heard. I trust that whatever may transpire the result may be favorable to the triumph of truth and for my good in all things connected with my future history

I held a short session of Court in the afternoon at which there was but little business transacted I spent the evening at home feeling well, after assuring myself upon mature reflection that all was right and upon reflecting that I had ever come out "neck and shoulders" ahead nearly every time I have been assailed since stepping upon the stage of life, and when clouds had obscured my path way, brighter scenes had appeared after they had been dispelled as I firmly belive will be the case with me now. Altho I know not how long the dark appearances now hanging over me may obscure the vision of th,e future I feel assured that my Father in heaven will order all things right and that ere long I shall be more comfortably situated than I have been since I have dwelt in these mountains temporally and spiritually

Monday 21st.—After breakfast I took a lesson in manual labor in building or fixing up some scaffolds for the drying of fruit I moved slowly, but at the end of two hours I was quite weary and concluded that short lessons would be more suitable for me under existing circumstances than long ones till I should become some what seasoned to hard work of which I have not done much (physically) since I arrived in the Valley of Salt Lake

In the evening I had a friendly visit from Elder John Taylor and Mayor Abraham O. Smoot which was interrupted, to my regret, by a call from T. B. H. Stenhouse Esqr who had surmised that I had become his enemy and wished explanation which I trust I done to his satisfaction

Tuesday 22d.—I assisted in gathering some peaches in the morning. Received several visits in the course of the forenoon and in the afternoon spent an hour or so in writing my validictory to "the Patrons and readers of the Deseret News" after which I went to the Historian's office to see Geo. A. Smith who had just returned from Provo as I wished to hear from my sister and my other relatives there. From the Historians office I went in company with George A. to see Prest. D. H. Wells who has been ill for some time but is now getting better. He is however quite feeble yet

Wednesday 23d.—I spent the morning in reading writing and in attending to some matters demanding my personal supervision. The weather was warm and the heat of the sun was so oppressive in the middle of the day, that I thought it not best for me to expose myself too much to its influence and therefore I kept in-doors, till towards evening, during which time, I had several calls from persons on business in which they were severally interested

The 10th number of Vol Thirteen, Deseret News, was published and I have to confess, that I felt injured, mortified and grieved, that my old friend Professor Carrington, who had succeeded me in the office, had thought proper not to make any allusion whatever to his predecessor, approvingly or disapprovingly. It may be all right but I do not fully comprehend the policy of the studied reticence. If I have done wrong let that wrong be made known that I may know what it is and be prepared to meet it, but let there be no implication of error or unfaithfulness made in a way which I cannot reply

For full citations please view this article on a desktop.