Source: Lyman Omer Littlefield, Reminiscences of Latter-day Saints

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.181

The Times and Seasons, of course, was discontinued. Hence the writer had no employment in "the art preservative of all arts." He concluded to move with his family down to St. Louis, expecting there to find employment on some of the many papers published in that city. Accordingly, with my wife, Samuel Omer, and our little Donna Isora, we embarked on board a steamer for the place named. We arrived safely, rented rooms, and I began to search for a situation as a compositor. We had been there three weeks and no opening was presented to me and the prospect began to look gloomy.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.181 - p.182

Mrs. Littlefield, with her accustomed habits of industry, readily obtained all the sewing she could do from the ladies. At that juncture I received a letter from A. W. Babbitt, Esq., wishing me to return to Nauvoo as he was about to start a new paper there in defense of the rights of our people until the Saints could all sell their property and prepare for the removal of those who were necessarily left behind.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.182

After a consultation with my wife, we came to the conclusion that it was best for me to comply with the wishes of Mr. Babbitt, and she would remain for the present and accomplish what she could in her line. Of course, I was to remit money for the support of the home in St. Louis.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.182 - p.183

The paper we started was called The Hancock Eagle. Mr. Babbitt paid the expenses of the paper. It was edited by Dr. Matlock, whose given name I have forgotten. He was one of the "new citizens." This was an appellation applied to all non-Mormons to distinguish between the two classes. In justice to Dr. Matlock, I will state that in addition to his possessing more than ordinary talent, and being a gentleman of much refinement, he was deeply devoted to the interests of his country, was a lover of the Constitution and a patriot. During the course of the struggle, as he witnessed the unjust encroachments upon the rights of the people of Nauvoo, and saw that their constitutional rights were utterly disregarded by the governor and most of the officers of the state, he was filled with sorrow. His able pen had been vigorously used in elucidation of those sacred inherent rights which never should be infringed by any who hold dear the sacred rights which the early patriots died to secure to every American citizen. He gradually lost his health, sickened and died. It was thought by some of his most intimate friends that his death was hastened in consequence of his having laid the matter here alluded to seriously to heart. Every citizen entertained for him profound respect. Even his opponents in the editorial arena honored him for his ability, and none rejoiced at his loss, except perhaps it might have been the incendiary editor of the Warsaw Signal. He has made an enviable record and must be classed among the honorable men of the earth.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.183

After I had been there a few months Mrs. Littlefield came up from St. Louis to visit me, bringing with her our pet girl baby, but leaving Samuel Omer in school at St. Louis. Remaining with me four or five weeks, she returned, and I continued my labors on the paper, which, however, was discontinued in the fall.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.183

I then went to Keokuk and obtained a situation as clerk in a store, rented a house and went after my family. My wife received me most cordially and the children expressed their delight in those untutored ways so pleasing to all who delight in the innocent artlessness of childhood. She seemed as satisfied as possibly could be expected without the company of her husband, she only regretting that I could not remain in St. Louis. She finally asked my acquiescence in her wish to remain there during the winter. After much conversation upon the subject, I reluctantly consented for them to remain.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.183

When the time came for my departure, with a reluctant and heavy heart I stepped on board a steamer for Keokuk.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.183 - p.184

Soon after leaving the wharf I found myself seated in the main cabin in moody meditative silence. A feeling was forced upon me that I had made a mistake in consenting to let my family remain in St. Louis, and to make amends, resolved to send a letter back for my wife to take the next steamer for Keokuk, which I did. I do not know that she received my letter, but she did not reach Keokuk as I desired.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.184

After having been in the cabin a few hours, I noticed seated at the opposite side, some four men observing me with scrutiny. I recognized two of them as being among the leading mobocrats of Hancock County, who had been identified in the Daniels pamphlet as having been in the company that committed the murder at the Carthage Jail. After eyeing me closely for a time and indulging in low conversation among themselves, they walked out and passed up the side-stairs that led to the hurricane deck, doubtless to consult together as to the most appropriate manner of disposing of me. In due time they returned and sauntered back and forth along the entire length of the hall, at intervals observing me with much interest, but to all the attentions bestowed upon me I maintained an oblivious demeanor.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.184

At one time one of them, whom I recognized as being a justice of the peace at Warsaw by the name of Grover, seated himself at a side table and engaged himself in preparing a paper shaped as if it might have been a legal document.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.184

I was satisfied evil was intended me. What was I to do? was the question that revolved quickly and earnestly in my mind. Trust in God was my mental resolve. After importuning Him, I determined to follow, step by step, the whisperings of His spirit.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.184 - p.185

While standing before a large map that was suspended at the side of the hall, apparently trying to glean some information from it, but really on the alert if possible to learn something from the movements of these men, one of them for the first time approached me. This was John C. Elliott. The following talk occurred between us:

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.185

Elliott--"I believe I have seen you at Nauvoo?"

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.185

Myself--"It is quite possible, sir, I have frequently been in that city."

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.185

Elliott--"Is your name Littlefield?"

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.185

Myself--"Yes, sir."

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.185

Elliott--"Do you know William M. Daniels?"

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.185

Myself--"I have heard of a man by that name."

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.185

Elliott--"Do you know where he is at the present time?"

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.185

Myself--"I cannot tell you where he is."

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.185

At this, Elliott turned away, pettishly exhibiting ill suppressed signs of displeasure.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.185 - p.186

The next best step for me to take seemed to be to secure a state room, as it was approaching the evening hour. I applied to the clerk of the boat who informed me that all the rooms were occupied as the boat was crowded with passengers. I went away and in an hour or two from that time I felt impressed to apply to him again for the accommodation. This time he gave me a similar answer. I asked him to grant my wish if it were possible, as I was a stranger and was not feeling in the best of spirits. He studied a moment and said: "Well, there are a couple of gentlemen to get off at Hanibal, and the best I can do is to give you their room after our arrival at that place. I thanked him and told him that would do. Just as the boat left the wharf at that place I applied to the clerk again and he gave me the keys with which I unlocked the doors and entered the apartment with a light heart. I could then lock out intruders and retire from the vigilant gaze of my enemies.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.186

I found the room exactly to my liking. It was situated just at the foot of the side-steps that led down from the hurricane deck where there was a door opening opposite to the one that led into the main cabin. This was arranged to suit my purpose. Locked within this little apartment, my spirit could peacefully commune with my Heavenly Father. I did not retire, for sleep and rest was no part of my program.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.186

I knew that sometime during the night we should land at Quincy, on the Illinois side. When the boat lay at that landing I took my carpet sack and walked boldly into the cabin and saw that it was convenient for me to pass close by my enemies, which I did, wishing to create within their minds the belief that I had left the boat at that place. Instead of passing down the steps which led to the planks which were launched out for persons to walk to the shore upon, I turned to my right and quickly ran up the short flight of steps that led me to the hurricane deck, passing over which to the opposite side of the boat, I descended the short flight of stairs and found myself at the door opposite to the one through which I had just passed. I opened it and soon found myself in my room again with both doors securely locked. I lay down and slept until morning.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.186 - p.187

When I awoke the sun was shining in all its splendor. I learned from the conversation in the cabin that we were at Warsaw. While meditating upon my situation, which I considered to be somewhat peculiar, two men were promenading to and fro in the cabin, in conversation with each other. As they were passing opposite and close to my room, one of them said: "Your Mormon left the boat last night, did he?" "Yes, he got off at Quincy, and it is d--d well for him that he did," was the reply. These words satisfied me that all my suppositions regarding their designs of mischief against me had been well founded. They were baffled by supposing I had gone ashore at Quincy, and thereby I was delivered out of their hands. In a quiet way I had followed the whisperings of the Holy Spirit faithfully and an intense feeling of thankfulness filled my heart at the happy termination of the affair. This to me was an important lesson which showed me the ease with which the Lord can frustrate the designs of the wicked when His servants act by the dictates of His Spirit, to which, had I not have given heed, I have no doubt but what the evil designs of these men would have been successful.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.187

My conclusions at the time were that Squire Grover had made out a paper for my arrest which was to be made while the boat was laying at the wharf at Warsaw with the view of getting me off the boat, after which they would have me in their power to treat me according to their wicked designs. But I was now free from their hands. As soon as the boat passed up stream towards Keokuk, I left my room and walked out into the cabin to enjoy the freedom of the boat.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.187

I arrived in safety at Keokuk and went to my situation in the store.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.187

My wife not coming up from St. Louis as I had desired disappointed me very much. I felt lonesome and discontented and longed to know how my Nauvoo friends were situated whom I knew to be scattered along the pioneer trail as far west as Council Bluffs and Winter Quarters.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.188

I got ready and started. Following on their trail, I visited their various encampments or locations. At Pisgah they had opened and fenced farms, built residences of various kinds, from the dug-out and rude hut to that of quite comfortable log houses.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.188

Many of the Saints having died and been buried at Pisgah induced Sister Eliza R. Snow, at my solicitation, to write the following poem:

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.188

THREE HUNDRED GRAVES IN PISGAH.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.188

Pisgah was then a wilderness, Where none but redmen's feet had trod, Until its dearest sands were pressed By the mob-driven Saints of God.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.188

We'll stop and drop a loving tear O'er those we leave in sacred trust; Three hundred graves are huddled here, And each enwraps a sacred dust.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.188

Robb'd of our wealth, and driven forth From homes, and lands, and country dear, As exiled wanderers in the earth, We stopp'd to rest a season here.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.188

But sickness came and added care To destitution's pressing woe, And death, soon following, met us there, And laid three hundred dear ones low.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.188

Why are they buried on the wild? O, tell us wherefore did they roam? Why not the father, mother, child, Lie in their sepulchers at home?

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.189

'Twas persecution's purple rod That drove them to the wilderness; And why? They dared to honor God And do the works of righteousness.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.189

And now we leave them here to rest, As Abram went not knowing where; We turn our faces to the west, And hope for PEACE and JUSTICE there.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.189

These lines from the pen of this celebrated writer were written under date of July 29, 1887, at Salt Lake City. Her death occurred at the Lion House, December 5, 1887, at five minutes past one o'clock. These dates show that this must have been among the last, if not the very last, of her poetic effusions. For this we prize it all the more, as we can place it on record in evidence of her faith in the gospel, and her fidelity to the memory of the Saints, to the very close of her mortal career. As to her superior ability as a writer, we do not here undertake to eulogize her. Her writings are printed upon the historic page of the Church which, combined with her pure and spotless life, will continue as a monument down through the years that are to swell the future ages. She requires no meed of praise from our pen to brighten the examples which link together the chain of her long and useful life. She was born in Becket, Berkshire County, Massachusetts, January 21, 1804.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.189 - p.190

Garden Grove also contained many improvements for so new a place. Besides these two places there were several smaller encampments of the Saints before reaching Council Bluffs and Winter Quarters. I crossed the Missouri River about eight miles above the site where Omaha now stands. The place was then called Winter Quarters, as a large portion of the journeying Saints passed the winter of 1847 there. After their departure, the name of the place was changed to that of Florence.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.190

On the night of the 12th of April, 1847, a vote was passed in council of the Twelve Apostles appointing me a mission to preach the gospel on the British Islands. My letter of appointment was signed by Brigham Young, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and Willard Richards, clerk, on April 14, 1847.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.190

On the 10th of May I left Winter Quarters for Liverpool, England. I left that place in company with Brother Alexander McRae who took me in his buggy as far as Savannah, Missouri. From there I rode with Brother Daniel Spencer to St. Joseph, from which place I went with Brother Campbell and daughter, Brother Jesse W. Fox, and Miss Polly Thompson, thirty miles to Weston, at which place Brother Fox, Miss Thompson and myself took passage on the steamer John Hardin. We arrived in St. Louis on the morning of the 28th. A large number of Saints resided there. They were in good spirits and held meetings regularly for the preaching of the gospel.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.190 - p.191

On the morning of the 29th [April, 1847], we left the wharf at St. Louis. The morning was a lovely one. Brother Fox and myself were seated on the hurricane deck to enjoy the pleasure of a "goodbye" sight of the city. The view presented to us was splendid. The distant city with its towers and bright domes--the many steamers at the wharf, motionless and still, while others passed and repassed on the bosom of the broad Mississippi--presented a scene of business and wealth. But my mind was occupied with other matters, from which it could not be diverted by the alluring prospect. I had expected to have met my family in that city. But upon learning that Mrs. Littlefield had gone to New Orleans, the disappointment fell with crushing weight upon my spirits.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.191

While at Winter Quarters--previous to my being appointed a mission--I wrote her a letter which I sent by Brother Frodscham, requesting her to come with him, by steamer, to Winter Quarters. He was to fetch his family when he returned and it appeared to be a lucky opportunity for her to come comfortable, as I sent money to pay her expenses. This was strange to me. For my part, I had not got tired of following the Church, though it should be in exile.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.191

There was but one path for me to travel and that was the one to which the finger of duty pointed.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.191

On the morning of May 30th [1847] we entered the mouth of the Ohio River. Its clear water presented a strange contrast to that of the riley appearance of the Mississippi.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.191 - p.192

The scenery along the Ohio River in many places was very fine. Cincinnati is certainly a very tidy place, with streets clean and neat. We left Cincinnati June 3rd [1847]. At the junction of the Erie and Cleveland canals we parted company with Brother Campbell, daughter and sister Polly Thompson. They followed up the Erie canal and we the Cleveland. We had to pack our trunks three-fourths of a mile before we could find a tavern, which gave us a relish for our bed. At Warren, Brother Fox and I parted, as he had to go by way of Akron. I walked across the country to Kirtland where I arrived at 4 o'clock, June 9th, with swollen and blistered feet. I was received by my father-in-law, John Andrews, and his family, with the utmost kindness and treated with perfect respect during my stay.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.192

In two or three days Brother Fox arrived. We found there several members of the Church--some of them firm in the faith, some rather lukewarm. There were plenty of apostates, the leader of whom was William E. M'Lellin, once one of the Twelve Apostles.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.192

Being anxious to see the inside of the temple, on Sunday I went to meeting, feeling doubtful whether I would have another opportunity, as M'Lellin had possession of the key. A man by the name of Knight--who joined J. J. Strang but at that time a follower of M'Lellin--occupied the stand. He dwelt upon the abominations he said the Church had entered into, in consequence of which the Saints had been driven into the wilderness to suffer.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.192

M'Lellin followed him and talked of the secret orders which he falsely said were in the Church--said they were contrary to the Book of Mormon, said David Whitmer was the man to lead the Church, that Joseph Smith transgressed about the year 1831, and only had power left with God to appoint another in his stead, which he said Joseph did in 1844 by appointing David Whitmer. To confirm this he referred to a conversation he had in Pittsburg with Benjamin Winchester.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.192

After meeting I was shown through the interior of the temple. I also went upon the top or roof of that noble structure where a delightful view was obtained of Kirtland and the surrounding country.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.192 - p.193

While in Kirtland, M'Lellin called upon me at Jacob Bump's residence. He commenced upon me in relation to the Church, its authority, its transgressions, etc. I argued in defense until 12 o'clock at night, when he withdrew but returned the next morning before breakfast. This time Mr. Bump joined with him against my arguments. I bore my testimony faithfully which made no apparent impression, but I felt that I had done my duty towards them.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.193

While there I made the acquaintance of Brother Luman Heath and wife and rebaptized her mother in the Shagrin River for the renewal of her covenant, according to her desire. I also made the acquaintance of Brother and Sister Kent and many others.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.193

I preached twice to full houses and on Monday, June 21 [1847], Brothers Fox, Heath, Wilcox and myself attended M'Lellin's conference in the temple. I counted seventeen of his followers, all apostates from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The speakers indulged in a tirade of abuse against the authorities of the Church.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.193

Monday, June 27 [1847], Brother Reuben McBride took Brother Fox and myself to Painesville, ten miles, where we took passage in a stage for Buffalo. At Lockport, I left the canal boat and took a stroll several miles in search of relatives, but was unsuccessful.

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.193 - p.194

July 4 [1847], about noon, I inquired again concerning my namesakes and the man of whom I enquired pointed to my Uncle Lyman Littlefield's house which stood within a few rods of the canal. Not more than ten minutes from the time I made the inquiry, I knocked at my uncle's abode and a hospitable voice bid me enter. Being seated, the scene presented within the compass of that room, to me was of vast moment. I knew that venerable head was my uncle, that the matron at his side was my aunt, and the young men and the one young lady at the table I felt sure were my cousins! This was an auspicious moment, to occur on the anniversary of our nation's independence! The memories of childhood were instantaneous in crowding among the most sacred recesses of recollection! My uncle so much resembled my father! I could not wait longer for recognition! The following conversation ensued:

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.194

Myself--"Is your name Littlefield?"

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.194

Uncle--"Yes, sir."

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.194

Myself--"Have you relatives in the west?"

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.194

Uncle--"I suppose I have a brother somewhere in the western country. He went away with the Mormons and I have not heard much about him for twenty years."

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.194

Myself--"What was his given name?"

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.194

Uncle--"Waldo."

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.194

Myself--"I am well acquainted with a man out there by that name."

Lyman Littlefield Reminiscences (1888), p.194

Uncle--"That must be my brother. How long have you known him?"