A Banner is Unfurled Volume 1

Book Series: A Banner is Unfurled
Title:             No Title
Author:         Marcie Gallacher & Kerri Robinson
Publisher:     Covenant
Publishing date: 2005
Pages:           377
Number of Chapters: 15
This volume spans four years, 1828-1832

There are *chapter notes* at the end of the book

To Julia Hills Johnson, our third-great grandmother, and to our children, the jewels in our crowns.

Family Chart/list: The Children

1. Joel 26 yrs old married to Annie they had a daughter who died at 2, one son, Sixtus, still alive. Joel founded the city of Enoch (yes that one by Cedar City) and wrote "High on the Mountaintop"
2. Nancy grey eyes, loves horses, would like to be married one day-riding accident leaves her crippled
3. Seth the spiritual leader, serious, scholarly, 23 and still not married, dark eyes and hair, head of house
4. Delcena a lovely young woman, engaged to be married to Lyman Sherman he is 24 
5. Julianne around 21 or 22, a certain boy has his eye on her!
6. David 18 years old with brown eyes, curly light brown hair, hardworking, a good catch
7. Almera the 16 year old beauty of the family, can't wait to be married herself
8. Susan 14 years old, quiet, serious, deeply spiritual knows no boy will ever eye her 
9. Joseph 12 going on 13 loves to study herbs hopes to become a doctor one day
10. Benjamin 11 has dark eyes like his other siblings, a good son, hardworking
11. Mary 9 years old
12. Elmer died at 18 months
13. George 
14. William
15. Esther almost two

Prologue  March 1787
Ashford, Connecticut

      Ezekiel Johnson is 14 years old, the only child of his mother who bore him out of wedlock. He has no idea who his father is except that he was a brave man who lost his life at Bunker Hill. His mother married Jonathon King who takes every opportunity to shame the young boy about his paternity. Ezekiel has a married stepsister with whom he is close, along with her husband, Isaac, who stops by the field to invite "Zeke" to an activity in town next Thursday. Jonathon tells Zeke he can go only if he gets all his chores done, including the plowing of the other field.
     Feeling very proud of himself, Ezekiel sneaks out of the house and stays up all night, overworking the horse to complete the job so he might be allowed to go. It backfired as his stepfather whipped the boy until he finally broke down and cried under the lash, for abuse of the animal and for wanting to have a day of devil's idleness. Meanwhile, his meek and subservient mother, Sethiah, passively stirs the pot and does nothing. Ezekiel makes a promise that very day to himself-he will never strike animal or child. He will never be so cruel as his stepfather, or weak and submissive like his mother.
   Two weeks later, Zeke eats the good breakfast his mother sets before him but he is annoyed as his stepfather (currently absent on a trip to town) is making him sell the beloved old horse out of spite, Zeke knows, for what happened. His mother is thirty (or so) her husband at least twenty years older. Zeke is very troubled by this dysfunctional relationship with this man his mother married. Why is he so unlovable? He wonders aloud. This good mother tells her son he is easy to love but she also believes God has withheld more children from her because of her sin and her husband probably encourages this. Ezekiel wishes his mother would simply leave this abusive marriage. He would take care of her. But Sethiah would never leave her husband.
   Ezekiel rises and bids his mother farewell. He's off to sell the horse but without any words spoken both know Zeke is going to keep the money for himself and run away. Sethiah suggests he take some extra food and the coat belonging to his stepfather. She hugs him goodbye.
   Zeke stops by Isaac's tool making shop and tells him of his plans to run away. Isaac understands. He promises to watch out for Sethiah and gifts the boy with his first rifle-a fine gun. He refers the boy to a good man he knows in another town to whom Zeke could apprentice himself to learn the carpentry trade. He tells Zeke to go with God. Zeke just shakes his head. For him, there is no God.

September 1798 Eleven years later (which makes Zeke around 25)
Grafton, Massachusetts

    Meet 15 year old Julia Hills-a lovely and god-fearing young lady with shining dark brown braids pinned neatly around her head and eyes so dark as to be almost black. Her older brother Joel teases his sister who smiles and teases him right back. A knock at the door reveals a young man, average height with soft, ginger hair and blue-grey eyes asking after their remarried mother, Esther Forbush. They invite him in. Julia is kind to him, perceiving this sensitive and strong young man needs love. He is a good man and very single.
   When Esther and the rest of the family arrive from their errand in town, they also welcome Ezekiel and invite him to stay for supper. Zeke is here to inquire what Esther might know of his mother and biological father. He knows he was born in this area, but his mother and stepfather moved, maybe to Canada-they never even bothered trying to contact Ezekiel or left him any word. Zeke got Esther's name from Isaac the day he ran away, now he's here to learn the story of his birth. Esther and Zeke take a walk after supper so she can tell him the story:
     She and Sethiah were good friends growing up. Sethiah was 12, Esther was 8 when Sethiah came to work for her family as "nanny" It would seem everyone in this story has a stepfather for Sethiah's stepfather was stern but not cruel like Zeke's. When Sethiah was about 15, a dashing bachelor named Ezekiel Johnson came courting with eyes only for Sethiah but her stepfather did not approve so she broke up with him. Ezekiel was, indeed, a proud patriot who believed in the cause for liberty and freedom from England. He was soon "called up" by the Sons of Liberty to join their next campaign at Bunker Hill. Before he left, he sent a note by way of Esther who had no idea it contained instructions for the lovers to meet where Ezekiel Jr was conceived. (*chapter notes* say this took place May 31, 1772 and the authors used some fictional licence to have Sethiah Guernsey work for this family who family records show were close as the Guernsey and Forbush families are buried close to each other) Sethiah loved him, you see, and he flattered her into believing God sanctioned their relationship. Ashamed at being with child, Sethiah kept it a secret and while her mother and stepfather certainly weren't happy, they also helped keep the unhappy truth hidden from the gossiping neighbors and community as long as they could. Word came months later that the famous rouge was engaged to be married to another girl in another town. Esther pleaded with her friend to tell him she was carrying his child to prevent this marriage of sin and a charge, by law, of fornication which they would both be found guilty of. She refused. Had the baby. Esther's parents paid the fine and continued to let Sethiah work for them. Esther took care of baby Zeke-a joy to all. Word reached the father who came to confront the mother. How could he marry this other girl now-except she is also with child! He left to fight in Bunker Hill, the rest is history...

Chapter 1
A short poem by George W. Johnson about the dinner horn blowing and the comforts of home
December 1828
Pomfret, New York

     Julia Hills Johnson steps outside her home ready to blow the noon dinner horn and call her family in but before she does, she contemplates her large family/tribe. Joel who is married and living not far away, Nancy who loves to ride in breeches which Julia tries very hard not to mind, Seth-the true head of the family in spiritual matters and the local schoolmaster, Delcena who will be the next Johnson to marry, Julianne and David who would make anyone a fine spouse along with all the rest of her brood. They are truly the jewels in her crown. Black hair now streaked with gray, Julia  is 45 years old with her gang of children and another due any day. Her husband, Ezekiel, greets her tenderly and while they still love each other, Julia worries her husband loves his peach brandy at the local tavern more and is grateful for Seth who often helps their intoxicated father home most nights to put him to bed. They live in upstate New York, right on the shores of Lake Erie near Fredonia where Canadaway Creek flows northward through the small village toward the lake.
   The family has just finished the noon meal and is enjoying desert of cornmeal pudding and molasses when tall, dark, steady and serious Lyman Sherman with his spectacles and kind eyes comes knocking to officially ask for Delcena's hand in marriage which Ezekiel gives, albiet begrudgingly, for he loves and cherishes his children just as much as his wife. Lyman also brings news by way of his cousin, "Doctor" Philastus Hulbert (so named because he is the "special" seventh son-the rest of the Johnson family look at their own seventh son, who is too busy placing rocks in his pudding to care about grown-up matters, and laugh) it was through Philastus that these two met, fell in love and decided to marry. So while Philastus may be a bit full of himself at times, pompous and swaggering, the family is grateful for the connection. Philastus sent a copy of a peculiar article from a local newspaper in the area about a young man named Joseph Smith, his "gold Bible" and a new religion. The family is very curious about this for they have been taught by their mother to love the Bible which has a special place on a stand in the front room for all to read from and expound to each other.
With all this talk about God and religion, Ezekiel rolls his eyes and leaves for the barn where he and Nancy will spend the afternoon breaking a new colt.
While the two lovebirds take a walk, and the rest of the family disperses to other activities, Almera the family beauty, lingers to help her sisters clean up and to get her mother's advice on the envy she feels at wanting to be married too, right now, but having no opportunity...yet. Julia counsels her daughter marriage is not a destination but a journey, the beginning of new challenges and burdens as well as a new life, one of joy as God intended for a woman.

Chapter 2
Poem by Joel H. Johnson about doing the Lord's will always

    Sister-in-law Annie greets David and Seth who are here to help repair the roof of the home. They tell her of today's engagement which is no big surprise to Annie-women always know these things! She notes how David, 18, tall at 6"3 and still single with his curly light brown hair and eyes flecked with gold should have no trouble catching a girl himself. Seth has dark eyes and hair, is scholarly and deeply religious. A true gentleman, he cradles Annie's fussy baby Sixtus and sings to his nephew (Seth really is the perfect man) He was engaged once to a woman named Sophia who died before the relationship could progress any farther.
   Annie's husband, Joel (named for his mother's favorite brother we met in the prologue) greets his brothers. He is 26, tall and thin as a rail but blessed with intelligence for he invented and patented a shingle cutting machine which he is trying to market but the men who helped finance the new technology are muscling him out. The three brothers discuss moving to Ohio to seek their fortunes. It would certainly be better for Joel but he's apprehensive about moving his little family.
   Meanwhile, Nancy and her father break in the new colt, riding a few miles from the house, talking pleasantly for both love horses. Father Johnson warns his rather headstrong daughter not to try riding this "green" horse on her own just yet. Nancy scowls, a little defiant. Ezekiel declares he's off to the tavern now. Nancy worries her attitude might've driven him to it but 11 year old Benjamin, 12 year old Joseph and Seth (who just returned from Annie and Joel's) talk religion, encouraging each other not to give up on their father but to trust in God.

Chapter 3
poem by George W. Johnson expounding on famous opening stanza of another popular poem "Backward turn Backward, O Time in thy Flight..."
January 1829

     Early morning. Julia is awake and feeling very pregnant, enjoying the comforting warmth of her husband's sleeping presence beside her. Today is Jan 12 (supposedly) the day they celebrate Ezekiel's birthday (family records state he told them he was born on this day, but since an illegitimate birth would not have been recorded, research done by the family years afterward discovered a "spinster" confessed to the town council her sin of fornication committed on the last day of May, 1772 and the math was done...). He will be 56, and it is also their 28th wedding anniversary today. Not one for giving presents as the family is poor (and it wasn't really done in those days anyway) Julia did save some of her income from sewing to buy a fine gold watch for her beloved husband.
    The older children are already up-boys in the barn doing the chores, older girls Nancy and Julianne preparing breakfast for the family. In the privacy of their room off the kitchen, Ezekiel tenderly presents a fine gold chain for his wife. Julia gives him the watch, remembering her 17 yr old self on her wedding day. She observes her husband's unabashed tears-he feels so unworthy of her, yet this man constantly lights her soul on fire every time she sees him. It is a sweet moment between the two.
   Out of 15 children, only one lost to death, Ezekiel reflects how important his children are to him yet, he's always struggled with low self-esteem (for good reason) he and Julia rise, dress and go to breakfast.
   Later that morning, other women come to help tie Delcena's wedding quilt. Nancy is 20 years old, and STILL unmarried as the largest woman and most outspoken but still the best midwife in town not-so-subtly reminds her.
   Three days later, the day before the wedding on Saturday, Julia's birth pains begin. The same outspoken midwife comes to help deliver the baby and stays the night so she might assist with the large family wedding. It's a boy and did not take long to come since Julia's done this plenty of times before! Julia would have this son, most likely their last child, named after his father but Ezekiel in adamant. No. They name him Amos instead, after one of Julia's uncles.
   Doctor Philastus Hurlbut arrives for the wedding and follows the lovely Almera outside to the barn so he can make wicked advances towards her, grabbing her and kissing her much to the girl's great alarm and dismay. They are interrupted and the proud man leaves. Mortified and ashamed, Almera stays behind in the barn until it is time to go inside for the ceremony. No one ever suspected anything.
   The wedding is lovely, the new baby later christened by the minister. That evening the entire family, minus one daughter, gather in the front room to play checkers, chess, mend socks and talk pleasantly. They comment how fast the "full-of-himself-Doctor" took his leave.
     In the master bedroom, Almera relaxes on the bed with her mother and new baby brother. They talk of "forbidden fruit" which Philastus called the lovely teenage girl who does not speak a word of the assault to her mother. Susan knows (she found Almera in the barn, weeping) and she is as silent as the grave. Sensing something is troubling her daughter, Julia admonishes her wisdom on forbidden fruit: how God sanctioned men and women to come together and procreate-which is both a sacred and beautiful commandment. Safe in her mother's love, Almera is comforted.

Chapter 4
Poem by Joseph E. Johnson of love and hope
February 1830
     Joel feels strongly he needs to move his family to Ohio. At first Annie is hesitant, but then she has a dream of her dead little girl in Ohio where all are smiling and happy. She wakes up and knows what they must do.

August 1830
      Delcena gives birth to twins, a boy and girl. Nancy is tempted to stay the night but her brothers are busy with work in the fields and she will be needed to help tend the younger clan. Nancy mounts one of the family horses and rides home, longing for a home and family of her own one day when the horse spooks and she is thrown...The riderless horse arrives back at the family farm. Thinking it's their father, David calls for his brothers and takes off alone on the animal to discover Nancy. The doctor declares her leg and hip badly broken. She may never walk again. Ezekiel is better and angry, the family declares they will trust in God but Zeke gets his gun intending to shoot the poor animal. Seth talks him down, holds him while he cries then follows his father to the tavern so he can help him home later. That night, Seth comforts Nancy who fears all of this is her fault.

September 1830
      Joel leaves to find a place for his family to settle in Ohio. David goes with him. They stop at their mother's favorite brother's house, the same favorite brother she named Joel after. It is a delightful visit as Uncle Joel wants to hear all the news of his nieces and nephews and dear sister. Uncle Joel encourages his namesake to relate a story to David (and the reader) of a miraculous near death experience. When he was a young boy, Joel came to visit his uncle's family and nearly drowned in the nearby river but he heard a "voice" instructing him what to do, next thing he knew, he was crawling out of the water onto the riverbank where his uncle found him and helped him home. David never heard this (True! see *chapter notes*) story before.
     Uncle Joel encourages his two nephews to settle here. They could use Joel as a teacher and handsome, hardworking David would have no trouble finding work and catching a young woman to marry and settle down. They would be welcome here. They thank him and dig into the pie their Aunt serves them.

October 1830
     During their stay, David meets a blonde haired, blue-eyed nineteen year old girl named Kathryn. She tells David of Mormonite preachers who are holding a meeting in the area. One of her friends, Almon Babbit (remember this name!) a lad of only seventeen but charismatic and intelligent and popular thinks very highly of this religious group. Kathryn prefers flirting. She also mentions a man nambed Pratt. They pull up in the wagon just in time to witness the "stu-boy" story (see Gerald Lund's Work and the Glory Volume II p. 184 where this same story is related) when Pratt tricked his guard who was keeping him in custody and escaped the dog's chase by ordering him to go ahead. David laughs until the tears roll.

Chapter 5
Poem by Joel H. Johnson about Joseph Smith-a true prophet sent from God
October 1830

     David is back home but very distressed at thin, weak Nancy's brave front while their father drinks more than ever-blaming himself for what happened. Nancy smiles encouragingly at her favorite brother, she's not dead yet. But family morale is very low. Joseph has been brewing herbs for teas in hopes of making Nancy stronger. David talks with Seth who is always encouraging and full of faith in God. Both go to their brother in law's to help out.
    It is decided Seth can let another teach the winter term of school this year, he will take their father to Cincinnati, Ohio where he can find some work and some respite from their depressing family situation. David will bring Annie west to Amherst, Ohio where Joel is waiting for them all. (On either side of Cleveland sits Kirtland on the east and Amherst on the west, both about 20 miles outside the main city, and both still very small, insignificant towns today)
   When they arrive in Amherst Joel, Annie and little Sixtus stay with a family, but the wife is not a big fan of Mormons and gets very upset when she discovers Annie reading the Book of Mormon Joel brought back from a recent meeting (Thanks Almon Babbit) she wants them all out of her house, along with that "devil's book!" Three weeks later, they are living in their own log cabin. Annie wants to be baptized. Joel supports her, intending to study his own beloved Bible and compare it to this new book. (He'll join soon and become a great leader!)
    Kathryn, called Katie, bursts into the brickyard where David is making (rather poor quality but it's the best they can do) bricks to earn some money. Katie heard all about the row between Annie and her hostess. Both chuckle at Annie's determination to learn more about this strange religion. Katie is so glad David has no interest in reading that wicked book.
   But after David talks with Annie, he agrees to accompany her to the next meeting where he meets Almon Babbit and fifteen-year-old Don Carlos Smith, the prophet's (and everyone's) favorite younger brother. These three young men will soon become fast friends. (This is historically accurate)
    Impressed by the maturity and demeanor of tall blonde, blue-eyed and handsome Don Carlos, reminding David so much of himself, the two walk and talk instead of attending the meeting and a friendship is forged for the Smith and Johnson families are very alike in having many siblings who vary in wisdom and spirituality. The late Alvin Smith was very much like Seth. Don Carlos testifies to David that his brother really did experience all the heavenly visions and manifestations the rumors claim. David believes.
    But when Kathryn discovers her boyfriend has taken up with the evil religion and intends to learn more about it, she promptly breaks up with him-she could never marry a Mormon lover! David goes for a long walk until it gets very dark, before kneeling in a field and praying for strength. He really thought he and the lovely Kathryn would marry...

Chapter 6
Poem by Joel H, Johnson petitioning God for holy direction in the name of Jesus
May 1831

    Annie, Joel and David are all baptized but David is troubled after the man who baptizes him falls into a sort of fit, confused about what he is doing here, mounts his horse and rides away.(He will later leave the church) Almon teases his two friends about joining up with "Us Mormons" Next day, David and Almon work hard in the field with the other men in the area, bringing in the hay. Katie arrives with the men's lunch. They remind her of her "promise" to reward the best mower with a kiss. She responds she would...if that person were not a Mormon. Impertinent Almon declares it is her loss for he is both the best mower and the best kisser! David's cheeks are red with embarrassment while Katie picks up her skirts and storms away, fighting tears.
    Walking home later Katie tries to talk to David but he is resolute about both the religion he believes in and his choice of friends. The men following the same path as David and Almon witness Katie screaming at Almon that she hates him, David nicks one of the men with his scythe and the fight quickly ends. Nobody wants any real trouble. Almon is nearly faint with a sudden fever. David helps him to the ramshackle hut and dirty straw bed. Almon's younger brothers begrudgingly assist but it is obvious this is no loving home but a place where it is every filthy, scrawny child for themselves.
    The warm scene awaiting David at Joel and Annie Johnson's home is very much the opposite of the Babbits. Still upset almost killing a man, David talks and eats the warm meal Annie left for him and is comforted. But he does not take the sacrament next day at Sunday meeting. Annie thinks he's being too hard on himself. David accompanies two other elders to give Almon a blessing. Immediately afterwards, Almon gets to his feet, completely recovered. He invites himself back to Annie's with David for Sunday supper. David just shakes his head, wondering if his beloved sister Nancy could experience such a blessing.
   Back home in New York, Seth is struggling with his feelings as to whether or not the Book of Mormon he's been reading is true. He tries to pray and hears otherworldly cries and howls as if from an animal but when he goes to look outside-nothing. Julia receives word of David and her son-in-law's baptisms and is glad. The rest of the older siblings-Nancy, Seth, Julianne, and Almera, hope it is the truth their favorite brother is seeking and not falsehoods. All have decided they will read and study this new Book of Mormon together as a family. That way bedridden Nancy can also listen and participate. Always at the tavern, Ezekiel is hardly home in the evenings anymore anyway.

Chapter 7
Poem by Joel H Johnson titled, "The Lord Bless You!"
October 1831

     There is to be another "General Conference" to be held thirty-five miles away in Orange, Ohio (just south of Kirtland on the East side of Cleveland). Annie, Joel, David and Almon are all going. Little Sixtus too, of course. Annie packs food for the wagon they will be driving and in which Annie, her husband and Sixtus will sleep while the two young men will camp underneath. (Since church records state Joel Johnson as being in attendance at this conference, the writers decided it was possible Annie and the two men might also have been there and decided to include them too.)
    Up very early the first morning for a special meeting, Joel is thrilled to be introduced to the Prophet-Brother Joseph Smith-tall, broad, full features, with a commanding yet warm and friendly nature. Upon request, he shares the latest news of his trip West to Independence, Missouri to preach both to the Indians and to begin the building up of the Kingdom to welcome the Savior as prophesied for the last days. A temple site has been dedicated and it is only a matter of time...
   Back at the camp, the others are very happy to welcome a visit from Emma and Mother Smith who have heard great things about (no not YOU Almon Babbit! *smile*) David Johnson from Don Carlos who is also here with the party. Emma brought her twin babies, Julia and Joseph who are almost a year old. The boys leave to hunt some wild turkey to be enjoyed by all at the conference, Mother Smith takes the babies back to the main house where the conference is being held leaving Emma and Annie alone to talk and get to know each other better. Annie learns the true parentage of the twins and weeps hearing Emma's trials. She can relate as she too lost a treasured child.
   Later that night as the men sit around the campfire, Annie is about to drift off to sleep in her wagon bed when she hears the booming voice of Brother Joseph. She peeks under the canvas to get a better look at him and is impressed. The men go off to help husk the corn in the barn of the man who is hosting the conference. The reader goes with them. Moved at being in the presence of a prophet of God, Joel recites inspired verse that has been forming in his mind all day-Joseph has already read some of this talented man's writings. All are moved.
   Next day is the meeting and while Annie is disappointed not to hear the prophet speak, she enjoys the sermons from Hyrum Smith and Sidney Rigdon among others. She gets her opportunity to formally meet the prophet the next morning as they are breaking camp to leave. Joseph feels Joel and David should travel to Pomfret, New York to teach the rest of the Johnson Clan. He promises Annie that while her husband is gone, she will be blessed, her husband will return to her and the child she carries will be born safe and healthy.

Chapter 8
Poem by Joel H. Johnson "Hail, Book of Mormon!"
October 1831

    Delcena's husband, Lyman Sherman, comes over to join the family in their Book of Mormon study. Delcena lost her first baby (the twin boy from Ch 8) she had last year but had another whom they named Mary but she's been sick with a cough so Delcena is staying home to care for her. Susan and Benjamin wish very much to join the rest of the older siblings in their study but Julia would rather they didn't. She finally allows them anyway after they were caught listening in the stairwell to Nephi's interpretation of his father's vision. All are moved by the Holy Ghost, Seth counsels them all to beware any kind of deception from the devil but even he has to admit, these are no ordinary words. This book is scripture, revealed from God and nobody else.
    Two weeks before Christmas, a knock at the door reveals David, Almon and Joel. The family is happy to report they have been reading the Book of Mormon and all believe it to be of God, except Seth who is struggling with doubts that such incredible verses could truly be inspired from on High. Joel bears testimony it is all true. Nancy is on crutches now, able to move about as best she can. Almera is "dating" the minister's son but fears she may have to break up with him once he learns she is partial to Mormonism. David can well relate.
   Next morning, Almon awakens to an empty room. The others have gone to their chores, letting him sleep in as a guest. Stretching and smiling in the morning light, Almon recalls his troubled sleep, wondering which of the lovely Johnson sisters he should pursue for (like Laurie from Little Women) there is no doubt in his mind he should be part of this special family. So different from his own dysfunctional home.
   On the stairs, he stops, intrigued. Someone, a female voice, is singing! Who could it be? The lovely Almera? Too intense for him. Quiet yet wise Susan who blushed when he offered one of his dashing smiles her way? No, she wasn't the one for him. It couldn't be Nancy. Too bad Mary, only twelve, is not yet old enough to court.
    The singer turns out to be Julianne, who is preparing a distaff of flax for the spinning wheel. All the other Johnsons are either at school or went to the Sherman house (where Julianne stayed last night helping Delcena while her husband was here for the family scripture study). She directs Almon to the plate of breakfast they left covered for him. Almon is only 18 while Julianne is nearly five years older. They flirt but Julianne knows she is far too old for him. Besides, it is obvious which Johnson sister likes him most-Susan could talk of nothing else this morning at breakfast.

Chapter 9
There are no chapter notes in the back of the book for this chapter.
One very short verse by Julia Hills Johnson praising God for all rich blessings that come from above.
December 1831

    Joseph Brackenbury bids his dear wife goodbye. He is off to the Pomfret, New York area to help Joel and David preach the gospel. He is especially looking forward to meeting the rest of the Johnson clan and perhaps baptizing some of them. Wife requests he say hi to all the Johnsons for her and send her love to all their friends he will meet on the way while he is traveling. She is happy to let him go, full of faith her husband and his companion who will join him in Kirtland, are doing the right thing and will soon return to her and their children.  (foreshadowing!)
   Philastus Hurlburt enters the Fredonia, New York carpentry shop where Ezekiel, hard at work crafting an item, eyes him warily. Philastus informs him his own sons are going around preaching Mormonism and, as a member of the family, he is concerned. Jospeh Brackenbury is also here with his companion and have joined Joel and David-stirring up trouble!
   We join these same men Philastus was just talking about. They are happy, leaving a neighbor's house and, while they were not very successful in getting them to believe, they are confident doing the Lord's work. They sing "Joy to the World" to further lift their spirits.
    Julia desires baptism. So does Lyman. Elder Brackenbury performs the ordinance on a freezing night where, under cover of darkness, they won't be disturbed by their critics yet, Philastus Hulburt is also in attendance, holding one of the little ones. Almera tries not to mind while also resisting the urge to snatch the precious child away from the viper in their bosoms. As the party walks back to the house, David carries his older sister, Nancy who would also be baptized if her health would allow it. She desires very much to walk again but understands it may not be God's will. David wants to see it happen, surely their father and others would believe the gospel message if such a miraculous healing took place.
   Seth and Joseph Brackenbury stay up late, talking of restored gospel doctrine and the history of Christianity. Seth is still wavering, he won't join until he KNOWS without any doubt this is from God. Brackenbury gives Seth a paper to read on which is copied what will one day be Moses 7 of the Pearl of Great Price-the word of the Lord to Enoch. Seth weeps reading it, feeling the spirit. He believes!
    Philastus, pretending great distress, finds Ezekiel in his shop and tattles on the family-his own wife has betrayed him, going behind his back to join those Mormons! Word also reaches Almera's beau, the minister's son who is also not happy. Both Ezekiel and the boy confront the family. A tense discussion follows. Julia is not here to defend herself but Seth leads the children's arguments in doing what they know to be right. It soon becomes clear Almera is no longer engaged to be married. Seth is not baptized yet, but he will be soon. Weeping (his partial intoxication is no help) Ezekiel stumbles out of the house and back to the tavern.

Chapter 10
Another short, single, verse by Julia Hills Johnson

    Next morning, when Ezekiel wakes, Julia is sitting beside him ready to both comfort her distressed husband and defend her decision to be baptized for her love for God has always come first before her love for her husband, as it should be for all God's children.
   The heated discussion continues over breakfast where all the Johnson clan, even two year old baby Amos who doesn't know any better, raises his chubby hand with the others to vote, "yes" on desiring baptism in this new religion. Ezekiel fears his entire family has turned against him, not so much the religious part only that no one consulted him first about it. He thought he was head of this family. The two visiting Elders and Almon eat and observe the scene in silence. Almon is especially incredulous. Can't this stubborn man see what a blessing he has in such a good and kind wife and children always striving to do what's right in honoring their husband and father? Ezekiel Johnson is a fool. Once again, Ezekiel leaves for the tavern and his carpentry shop in town where he has work to do.
   The New Year arrives and an official branch of the church has been organized here in Fredonia, with Lyman Sherman as President. Nancy also desires baptism along with Seth and Julianne but she has come down with a bad cough and fever. Before Elder Brackenbury gives her a priesthood blessing, David takes him aside, requesting he include a special blessing that she might walk again. The blessing is short but full of promises that Nancy will recover to be baptized, her name will be remembered by future generations...but no commandment to rise and walk. Disappointed, David stumbles from the room, smothering his sobs.
   Next day, Nancy is ecstatic that she is well enough to be baptized. She tells David not to be troubled for she has hope and faith in God that all will be well, no matter what happens to her. Seth and Julianne are also baptized by Elder Brackenbury. A special friendship has formed between this family, Seth especially, and this good man.
   Julia, David, Nancy, Seth and Elder Brackenbury are invited to tea and an "intervention" at a neighbor's house where two of the local leaders of the churches confront them about the evils of Mormonism. If only dear Nancy were healed by this so-called restored priesthood power, THEN they might believe. The five Mormons bear their testimonies and leave, unable to do much else in preaching the gospel. Only a wicked and perverse generation seeketh a sign, you know...
   While harvesting ice on the frozen lake not many days afterward, Elder Joseph Brackenbury is almost literally struck down by a chronic illness. Doubling over coughing, the family helps him to his bed in the house and tends to him. Not wanting the younger children to witness a possible death, Julianne leads them in roasting apples, onions, potatoes and popping corn over a roaring fire. They play games and are successfully distracted. But as the days pass, it becomes evident this dear friend is not going to recover. Ezekiel is sympathetic and supportive. He even makes a coffin for the funeral which is held sometime after January 7, 1832-the day Joseph Brackenbury passed away. The entire family mourns. Zeke holds his wife that night as she weeps and, for the first time in months, he remains in bed with her that evening, instead of going off to the tavern.
   Fearing enemies of Elder Brackenbury might disturb his grave, medical students digging up a body-illegally-so they might study it, (very common in those days) the older Johnson boys run to the grave to chase off the robbers and rebury their friend's coffin. Father Ezekiel is also here with his trusty gun (the one he received in the prologue) to back them up. Almon reminds David, "Mormon boys stick together!"

Chapter 11
Poem by Joseph E. Johnson about the joys of attending school in a country schoolhouse
January 1832

    Today is the first day of school since winter break. Locals refer to the younger Johnsons-Benjamin, Mary, George and seven-year-old William as "the tadpoles." Like a good older brother, Joseph Johnson promises Seth he won't let any of the local prejudice against Mormons affect the little ones. As schoolmaster, Seth fears his recent baptism may get him fired from his position. His classroom numbers have gone down since word got out he'd become a Mormon. He counsels Joseph to use caution with his friends if they reject him but Joseph is confident nothing has changed in his relationships with his two best friends-one is a pretty girl.
   Nevertheless, contention does erupt today during recess. Unable to stand the persecution against her older brother, Mary takes the other boys home. Later that afternoon, members of the school board pay Teacher Seth a visit and are sorry to inform him they must let him go. A troublesome article in the local paper was published, feelings are high, parents don't want their children taught by a "dirty Mormon." Some of the children weep saying goodbye. Late that night, Julianne finds Seth nearly frozen, too depressed to come home, in the solitary hut in the woods where he often goes to ponder, study the Book of Mormon and reflect. She helps him home, feeds him and warms him up.
   Almon arrives back in Ohio with letters for Annie from the family and a special one from her husband. Annie feels her unborn child kick and sheds a few tears, missing her husband but knowing he is on God's errand. She is very distressed learning of the death of Elder Brackenbury. His wife, her good friend, will be devastated.
   Joseph Smith and Hyrum pay a special visit to Annie a few days later. Emma told them of Annie's melencholy and they come with news, their brother Samuel is going East to preach the gospel and it would be no trouble if she would like to send a letter back to Pomfret for him to deliver when he passes through the area. Samuel is also taking a letter for Almon, with special instructions to deliver it to one of the Johnson sisters. Annie smiles, wondering which one Almon has set his cap for.
   Benjamin accompanies oldest brother Joel on his mission to preach in Ohio, on his way home to Annie whom he is very anxious to see again. They stay with a friendly member neighbor who feeds them a hot meal. Ben retires to bed while Joel and the man stay up discussing the latest news. A similar Book of Mormon manuscript the famous "Solomon Spaulding Manuscript" is rumored to be the source of Joseph Smith's gold bible. Two other men, who were baptized with this man have already left the church because of it. Joel and this man know these manuscript rumors are not true.
   Before her husband arrives home, Elder Brackenbury's good wife, now widowed, assists Annie with the birth of her baby girl whom Annie names Sariah, after the famous Book of Mormon mother. The reunion for husband and wife is sweet indeed. Benjamin is also warmly welcomed inside where Sixtus is ecstatic to see them.

Chapter 12
A poem about spring, by George W. Johnson
May 1832

    Susan spins wool, thinking of Almon knowing he will never be interested in her the way he is in Julianne. Downstairs, Mother Julia kneads the bread dough, thinking of the growing divide between her and her husband but the church is growing in their area. Thanks to Elder Brackenbury, ten more people were recently baptized and she will be hosting the meeting this coming Sabbath. Her children are all healthy and happy, what more could any mother ask for.
   David is working hard with his younger brother, sowing and planting the field when a young woman, Hope, arrives on the scene. They have been "seeing" each other but nothing official. Hope is an orphan girl, raised by charity and working as a nanny for a prominent family in town. The dinner horn blows but David will be joining Hope for lunch today at Seth's hut in the woods. But when they arrive, an argument ensues for Hope laid out a blanket on the floor with flowers everywhere anticipating David would get intimate with her-she cares not that he is one of those Mormons, she loves him! Overcome with hormones while they kiss passionately, David resists her advances and leaves before he can even enjoy the picnic lunch she brought.
     Fearing he was only put on this earth to ruin every girl he meets, David finds his father and two other brothers planting corn in another field. Ezekiel expresses his disapproval of his older son going off with a single woman, unchaperoned. David fears he'll never be worthy to be ordained to the priesthood now.
    Persuaded by Seth, Zeke agrees to attend the Sabbath meeting that Sunday, since it's being held in his own yard, might as well. He notices David does not partake of the sacrament and wonders what's troubling him. Julia has been hosting all the missionaries coming to the area to preach, while Zeke doesn't really approve, there's not much he can do. One of these Elders gives today's sermon-follow the Lord and seek the truth. Ezekiel wonders if his wife will take their children and leave him for Kirtland to join rest of the believers. He vows to himself he would never allow it.
   Julia sits at the kitchen table with her older children. All speculate what it will mean for the family if Delcena and Lyman end up moving to Kirtland. Julia thinks David and Seth should go and find a place where they could live. Seth has already expressed to his father a desire to take him to Kirtland and meet the prophet, perhaps find a place to set up a carpentry shop in the area if they end up relocating. While Zeke seemed partial to the idea of taking a trip, he didn't agree to anything.
   Julianne finds Susan in the room they share, brushing out her hair. Taking the brush, Juli takes over and the two sisters have a nice chat about their feelings for Almon Babbit-he would have to grow up quite a bit before either would even consider him-and the future of the family's possible move to Kirtland. Juli feels Susan should be the woman to go and keep house for the men. The trip would be good for her-and she would see Almon. Wise Susan knows men like Almon Babbit could never be interested in someone like her, shy and plain and dull. She wishes she were more like her vivacious older sister. Juli calls her God's masterpiece, Susan corrects her-she is God's handmaid. But she would like very much to travel to Kirtland and meet the prophet. Juli promises her one day a man will love and admire her, just like they do.
    Still troubled by all the recent events, David feels strongly he should be baptized again. One of the visiting Elders performs the ordinance and David feels much better. He is reborn and ready to move forward!

Chapter 13
Poem by Joel H. Johnson about faith in the Lord
August 1832

    As the family gathers for the noon meal, Lyman (who was helping bring in the hay today) tells the family he and his cousin Philastus will be traveling west to Kirtland as he and Delcena have definite plans to relocate to Zion to join the Saints. Father Ezekiel is not pleased. His son-in-law would leave his wife who is with child again (her third) and unwell alone. Perhaps they should cancel the trip. Almera originally planned to travel with Seth and Susan and the others to Kirtland but if Philastus is going she would rather not-she does not voice this concern aloud but declares she, Almera, will stay behind to help care for Delcena. Julia would rather Susan not be the only woman in a company of men but agrees to let her go anyway. Seth expresses it is deepest wish his father come with them to Kirtland. It is all decided then.
    Almera and Susan talk later in private. Despite the incident that happened almost four years ago between Philastus and Almera she declares she can never trust that man! While Susan would prefer the company of another woman in the party, she will go as planned.
   Later that day, Ezekiel is sitting in the tavern, nursing his drink when Hope finds him. They go outside to talk. She is with child. No, it is not David's but if he would only marry her...but she knows that can never be for David does not love her. She is leaving the area to stay with a Quaker friend who can help her get a job in a textile mill. She just wanted Father Johnson to know his son is innocent of any gossip that might arise after she leaves. Partial to her situation, Zeke gives her some cash money and makes her promise not to let any man treat this innocent babe harshly. With tears in her eyes, Hope declares him an angel sent from heaven. Zeke just shakes his head.
    Only a few days later, Father Ezekiel Johnson is in Kirtland, Ohio meeting the Prophet Joseph Smith for the first time. He has to admit he's impressed with the young man's earnestness and genuine love and friendship for one like him who openly declares he has no belief in a higher Deity, especially one who would take such a good man as Brother Brackenbury breaking the hearts of his precious children. Such a tragedy a prophet of God should've foreseen and prevented.
    Seth, Philastus, Lyman and the others cringe but, with tears in his eyes, Joseph agrees. He relates to Ezekiel his own trials-he too was poisoned but his friend laid his hands on his head and healed him by the power of God who also told him if he were to fail to keep the promises he made God would find another worthy to be His prophet-he understands his responsibility. Yet, being spared from death does not mean equal ease from heartache and violence. Just a few nights ago, a mob attacked his house, dragging him outside, leaving one of his young adopted babies, already sick with measles, exposed to the cold who later died. He does not know why these things happen, but Brother Joseph knows, without a doubt, that the restored gospel is back on the earth again, blessing the lives of all. He wishes he could remove this burden of unbelief Ezekiel carries. Zeke tells Brother Joseph he has enough to be worried about. The two men thank each other and wish each other the best.
    Back at the inn where Susan is resting in her own room and the men are discussing the latest news from Independence, Missouri where the church is growing, Ezekiel excuses himself to take a walk. Philastus catches up to him, offering to buy him a drink, so he can return to the Inn and try and get Susan to open her door to him. She blatantly refuses. Later, as moonlight streams through the window, Ezekiel comes stumbling in, intoxicated. Earlier, Susan had been thrilled getting to meet the prophet and had written a letter home relating the experience. She covers her Papa with a blanket while he mumbles how she needn't worry, her father and brothers will always be here to take care of her. Susan just smiles and kisses his scruffy cheek (Ezekiel is always clean-shaven avoiding beards).

Chapter 14
One line of verse by Joseph E. Johnson

     Leaving Kirtland, the family will board with Lyman and Annie in Amherst while Lyman and his cousin Philastus visit Lyman's mother and his two unmarried sisters who live with her in an area just west of Amherst on the shores of Lake Erie. The women have all been baptized. Philastus eyes the younger daughter, who is sixteen, with lustful eyes.
    Susan apprehensively agrees to join Benjamin and Almon watching them fish along one of the rivers in the area of Amherst. Almon peppers her with questions about her family. Knowing he is digging for more info on Julianne, Susan smiles to herself as she informs Almon her older sister does have one other man interested in her, neglecting to mention the man is a forty-year-old, bald, widower with six children. Despite his bragging that he will catch the biggest fish, Almon quickly admits defeat as he spent most of his time that afternoon flirting and chatting with Susan giving Benjamin the advantage. It is now time to go. Ben goes ahead to show off the fish to Annie. Just as they reach the door of Annie's, Almon makes a clumsy proposal. He loves her family and would have one of the lovely Johnson sisters to wife. This upsets Susan who openly declares she knows which sister Almon really loves. Weeping, she begs him to be true to his own heart and pursue Julianne, not her (though such an admission is breaking her own heart). With hope in his eyes, Almon seeks her advice on how to prove himself to the more mature Juli. Susan encourages him to continue with his plans to become a lawyer so he can support a family and to let Juli know how he feels about her.
   Susan is very quiet all that evening, she eats little while the rest enjoy the fresh fish and retires to bed early. Uncomfortable by the talk of new revelations and other religious subjects, Zeke leaves for the tavern. Seth gently rebukes him, pleading with his father to pray to God for abstinence, to give up drinking. While Zeke will defend Joseph Smith as an honest man, he believes the boy suffers from delusional thinking and foolish dreams. He leaves the house, shutting the door hard behind him.
   Ben wakes up in the middle of the night, feeling something is wrong. He checks and discovers Seth is gone! Suffering from a strange mental state, Seth fled the house and ran all the way from Amhurst to Kirtland on foot. He is brought to the home of the prophet's parents where Seth rests. Brother Joseph comes to see him, Seth feels he is being consumed by flames. Joseph counsels him it is Satan, who also tormented him in the Sacred Grove. He lays his hands on Seth and gives him a blessing rebuking the evil spirit. Seth returns home with Don Carlos, feeling a little better but not completely healed. (This is a true story, recorded by Ben in his journals about his brother's "mania" he suffered for a period of time that had the entire family worried caused by their father's refusal to be redeemed from both drink and be converted.)
    Ezekiel is about to go looking for Seth when he and Don Carlos come stumbling into the clearing of the house. Ben rushes to hug his brother, sobbing with relief Seth is not dead. Ezekiel is frustrated hearing why Seth ran off. His mind is broken, there are no flames, he's being ridiculous. Seth is brought inside where Susan tends to him. Don Carlos, after explaining how he already knows David, Joel and Annie is welcomed by the thankful family.

Chapter 15
One short verse by George W. Johnson

    The party returns to Pomfret, New York. On the steamship, a friendly young man strikes up a conversation with Zeke. There a little town called Chicago developing over in Illinois, a promising place. Best part about it? No Mormons allowed. This gets Father Johnson thinking. His family really wants to relocate, perhaps they could all move there.
    Julia and the others are glad to see everyone who quickly scatter, some go straight over to the Shermans'. Susan isn't feeling well and goes upstairs to lie down. Next morning, Julia does her chores while her very youngest child, Amos, fusses before finally falling asleep. Seth is still troubled, even Julia can tell the calm, intelligent son that left four weeks ago returned a changed man. Something is very wrong. She talks to her husband about it who is convinced it's this Mormon religion that is ruining their lives. It took the life of a dear friend and now his son is ranting about hellfire and the family falling to pieces because he refused to give up drinking and join some foolish religion after meeting a man who claims to be a prophet. It's not for him. They will sell the farm and move next spring but NOT to Kirtland. The Shermans will be vacating their place. Seth can move in with one or two of his siblings to keep him company.
   As the fall harvest and projects are accomplished, the entire family works hard with the subject of religion left strictly alone while Father Johnson helps. Seth and Nancy talk one night at the cabin, with Nancy reclining on a cot, due to her bad leg. Seth is encouraged by Nancy's words of faith and hope in God. He is going through a refiner's fire and (like a future Elder Maxwell who battled cancer, see Elder Bednar's talk) he WILL NOT SHRINK.
   Delcena gives birth to a healthy baby boy. The entire family takes turns visiting, Nancy sends over cunning little baby clothes and other items for the two older girls so the Shermans know she is thinking of them. Father Zeke also pays a visit, happy to be a grandfather once again. He has sold the farm and the family will be moving next year.
   Seth travels to Kirtland to get Benjamin who stayed behind to help Annie and Joel with their own fall and winter harvest. But before he goes over to the house to see his brother, Seth first pays a visit to the Prophet's home where Emma recently gave birth to a baby boy they named Joseph Jr. Seth is doing better but is still troubled by the contention caused by his father's drinking and his plans to relocate the family to Chicago instead of Kirtland. After the visit, Seth takes a walk to a plot of land where, nearby sits a small schoolhouse where the Prophet often gathered others to teach and instruct. Like a vision, Seth beholds a two story house, a swing hanging from a nearby tree, his mother and all his younger, unmarried siblings enjoying various activities and perfect family harmony.
But when Seth tries to picture his father, he can't find him...
(The prophet did actually counsel Joel to purchase this very property, located on the Kirtland Flats which is now owned by church and now houses a visitor's center in a replica of a small house like the schoolhouse nearby. The property would later be in Julia's name)

THE END