1900s
A Small Section of Daniel’s Diary
Dairy, April, 1900
4th -- Snowed 4 inches last night, a boon to agriculturists.
5th -- Rained last night, a boon to agriculturists.
Brother Miller Greenville down with Small pox. Many exposed. Supposted quarantine today.
8th -- 3 inches snow last night, also rain.
A Dream (part of diary)
I dreamed last night that falsehoods had been circulated against the people of Utah by evil disposed people accusing our citizens of disloyalty to the general government etc. A U.S. Army was sent against us. We assembled for self protection. A consultation was held when the military commander demanded Utahans to surrender and be tried by court martial for treason. This was refused. We told them we were not military men and would only submit to the civil law. We would fight it out rather than be tried by soldiers. The commander insisted but to no effect.
The Prophet Joseph Smith was our commander. After some parlaying, Joseph sent a messenger to the military leader demanding an answer whether he would submit the matter to the civil law. He did not seem in a hurry to answer, but urged surrender to him. Here Joseph left us, passing unobserved in the rear of the U.S. Army.
A man who was our late Missouri friend, General Donophon [bottom line partly cut off] ... ... that he was still our friend. I also felt that as Joseph was out of their reach they would not be so anxious about us. Here I awoke, a little before 3 o’clock a.m.
I soon fell asleep and in answer to prayer was placed back where I awoke from. In my absence however, the matter had been settled and the Army withdrawn. Our forces soon disbanded and all rejoiced at the return of peace. Here I awoke again, feeling very happy when I opened my eyes and beheld the light of dawn emerging from my window.
The whole scene seemed a repetition of the doings of Far West, Missouri, except that none of our people were taken prisoners, neither were we expelled from our homes.
I omitted to state that when I first awoke I was tempted to ask the Lord in case the former troubles were to be repeated to let me pass away first, but did not yield, saying no, if my brethren have trouble, let me share it with them. These are still my feelings even should martyrdom be the result. I know Joseph Smith was sent of God and died a true martyr of Jesus Christ and I want no greater glory than to enjoy his society on the other side.
Letter Daniel Wrote Regarding Mormon Battalion
[This is From the Church Historian’s Office and May Be Printed Only With Their Permission.]
First Presidency
Lorenzo Snow
George Q. Cannon
Joseph F. Smith
Beaver, Utah
Aug. 23, 1900;
Dear Brethren,
First of all I must ask that you excuse my crooked writing as my sight at age 84 years of age has so far failed that I cannot see to follow the ruled lines.
In a late number of theJuvenilee Instructor [magazine], I observed a photo of the late James Furgeson and the remark that he was appointed historian of the Mormon Battalion. The question with those not posted would naturally arise that if Brother Furguson, a well educated, bright lawyer, was appointed Battalion historian, why did Daniel Tyler write a history of said valiant corps? Especially would that question arise should his history take the precedence which it be would likely to do, as his abilities and acquirements were far superior to mine and his story was written at the time of service and mine thirty six years subsequently.
I have not the slightest objection to his taking the precedence if the substance of the following statement of facts be stated in a note or preface of the publication, to wit: “I did not undertake the intricate labor on my own suggestion, although many times requested by comrades to do so, I did not feel competent. Elder Israel Barlow, an early member of the Church, wrote me a very lengthy and urgent letter requesting me to undertake the work. I laid his letter aside the same as I had others, without a thought of complying. Some days after, seeing it on my desk, read it again and felt impressed to mail to President Taylor, which I did, with the remark that I had never felt qualified to undertake it. He wrote for answer that if I felt like undertaking it, I should have his approval and any assistance he could give, and proposed that I get all I could from the Historian’s Office.
Under those circumstances I undertook the enterprise. Before publishing, I presented the manuscript to him for his consideration. He appointed President George Q. Cannon to examine it, remarking that whatever he (President and Co.) Approved he would approve, which was done with other help from both. I heard of Brother Ferguson’s appointment but failed to locate his history 36 years after it should have been in the Historian’s Office.”
Your Brother, Daniel Tyler
P.S. My health fluctuates. I am
well at present. I hope President’s
health has fully recovered. With
kindest regards to you all and Brother
Gibbs.
Daniel Tyler
Letter Daniel Wrote to his Grandson, Daniel about Genealogy
Beaver City, Utah
June 19, 1901
Mr. Daniel Tyler
Ako, Idaho
My Dear Grandson,
I send you a copy of a letter from Elder George F. Gibbs, President Lorenzo Snow’s private secretary, in answer to the question whether I should instruct my offspring to continue my Temple work in my interest or in their own. Copy:
The First Presidency of the
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Post Office Box B.
Salt Lake City, Utah
June 18, 1901
Elder Daniel Tyler
Beaver
Dear Brother,
Presidents Snow and Smith are pleased to learn that you have done what you could in the way of Temple work and that you are still interested in that direction. It is very proper that you should have your children continue the work not done by yourself. As to the question of their working in your interest or their own, all such labor must be mutual and freely done and all that can be said about it is simply this, that your offspring will be expected to do the work you may be unable to do in the way you would do it if done by yourself, but they will receive credit for what they do.
Your Brother,
George F. Gibb, Sec’y
I made no comments but simply asked the question. Now read the blessing I sent you the day you was born and see how nicely it corresponds with the letter referred to. As time rolls on you will see it more and more. Now will you and all your brothers and sisters take hold of the work, with your Uncle John and his children and do what you can reasonably when the names are received?
I expect the first volume of the “Tyler Family History” will be published about the end of this year. I send you a blank, which I hope you will fill out for said history. There will be three volumes. The price will be as indicated on the card. I have subscribed for the leather binding, cloth bindings don’t last half as long as leather. None will be published only what are subscribed for. My name, likeness, and family (not family likeness) will be in it.
I do not recollect whether I obtained or sent your father’s family or not. If not, send it to me and I will do so. They want all of the Tyler names, births, marriages and deaths they can get. When and where etc., even to your little one. I think I have given you our lineage as far as I have it, commencing with Job, our emigrant ancestor. I hereby send it again:
Job Tyler born (supposed in England) in the year 1620. Settled in North Andover, Mass. about 1640, where it is supposed he died at the age of 81 years. He married Mary ......., by whom four sons and one daughter. The four sons from whom four different races are of Tylers are now reconed [?]. Were named Moses, Hopestil, John, Samuel. Your descent is: Job (1), Moses (2), Ebenezer (3), Nathaniel Sen. (4), Nathaniel Jr. (5), Andrews (6), Daniel (7), Daniel Moroni (8), Daniel (yourself) (9). Hence you see you are in the 9th generation from our emigrant ancestor and little darling is in the 10th. Job Tyler is your sixth great grandfather and there is not any break in the line of descent from Job Tyler to your baby.
Now my dear beloved grandson, please tell me if you will get your endowments with Tillie. Get the little one sealed to you and her and lead out when you can and try and get your brothers and sisters, as fast as they get married, to join you in doing Temple work for our dead. There is likely to be as much as your Uncle John, yourself, and all my offspring can do for many years. Say you will do the best you can and I shall go to the other side satisfied.
Much love to you, John, Tillie and all. Answer.
Daniel Tyler
Letter to Daniel From Emily, His Daughter
July 1st, 1901
Dear Father, Brother, Sister,
we received father’s letter last night, after I wrote, with $5.00 in thereby making many many thanks. Could you spare it, my dear, dear father? We also received two from Em..., one from Dan’s wife. Dan got speechless and couldn’t swallow, just motioned all the time for them to take him to the doctor. Sent for doctor and he couldn’t come. They put bedsprings in the buggy and took him up to Cedar to the doctor. He said he can cure him. Dan has ulcer’s inside his ... [head or heart] and Bright’s Disease. Is in a very dangerous condition. He was staying at David Haight’s. Medicine and doctor and board bill will cost 15 or 20 dollars a week.
I suppose Leo, Emily’s boy, cut the cords into palm of ... his hand a few weeks ago and it cost him 15 dollars in less than a week. Emily and Florence took him up. Dan stayed one day and had to go home and leave him there. They hear every day he was improving some. I dislike to urge Joe and Allis to send him ten dollars, but do send it if I have to pay 50 percent interest.
Emily sent me a black shirt waist, the first I have had since I got my dear mother’s clothes, excepting one calico shirt waist two years ago. Had it on when my picture was taken. I ought to send Dan this five dollars but I owe part of it and have yet to have ... or can’t keep up to take care of Rufus. He feels a little better this morning.
We have young tame rabbits. He ate nearly a whole one. I have yet to take him to doctor. Saturday if he is able to ride. If not I will have to send for doctor. Don’t know as you can read this. Do write soon as you get this. My poor boy. Anything.
Your loving daughter. All send love to all,
Emily P. T. Adair
Letter From His Granddaughter, Esther
[This is beautifully and clearly written by then teenager, Esther]
Ako, Idaho
July 19, 1901
Dear Grand Pa and all,
I will try to answer your kind and welcome letter which we received some time ago and were pleased to hear from you again and that your health was good.
We are all well but Ma. She is sick today and don’t feel like writing or doing anything. We have awful hot weather up here. The boys are putting up the hay. They have been hauling every since the fourth of this month and they have it all up on the place Dan works on and will be done here about the twenty-fourth. Then they will have to put it up, that is on our farm. They have one hired boy. Ruth is here today. Tilda was here this fore noon.
We hope you all enjoyed yourselves on the fourth. We had a pretty good time. I don’t know as we will have much of a time on the 24th. I think I will stay to home or go to Milo ward. We are going to invite a crowd here and have some fun if we can.
Brother Harmon, who was in the Mormon Battalion, died last Friday, the 12th. He has been sick and in bed; could not move without help for eight weeks. He had about the same as my dear Pa died with.
No, I did not hear of any people by the name of Black in Rexburg. Oh, it is so hot, I don’t know what we would do if it was any hotter. We are very busy putting up fruit, and there are so many things to do, it keeps us all busy. I will have to stop and get supper for the boys. I hope and pray that Ma will soon be all right again. It seems like it makes me feel sick to see her sick. I can’t stand it to see her not well.
I will close for this time, hoping to hear from you soon. I remain as ever your loving niece and grand daughter,
Esther
P.S. You said Jennie’s wrist troubled
her but did not say what was the matter
of it. I would be pleased to hear from
her if she feels like writing.
Esther
Letter From Daniel’s Grandson, Daniel
Ako, Bingham Co.
Aug. 3rd, 1901
Dear Grandfather,
I received your letter some time ago and was very much pleased to hear from you. I have been very busy lately, or all summer, and have been careless in answering, but will try and do better next time. It looks like rain here now. We have had an awful, dry, hot summer here. But plenty water and we are starting to cut grain and second crop of hay is almost ready to cut.
I am going to try to go to the Temple this fall if possible and if there is anything I can do I will do the best I can with it. I would like very much to have one of those Tyler Histories and shall try and get one.
We would like very much to come and make you a visit this fall but don’t know how it will be. I am trying to buy ;some more land. I am getting tired of renting and working for someone else all the time, and want a place of my own. I have got about 200 herd of sheep, but if I buy a place will have to sell them. There is good money in them and I don’t know hardly whether to rent a few years and keep them and the increase, or whether to sell them and get a place and try and make another start.
Well, don’t know of any more news so will stop for this time, hoping you are able to write us a good many more letters yet. Tilda joins in love to you all,
Daniel Tyler
Resolution of Respect
To
Daniel Tyler - Late President
Of The
High Priest Quorum of
Beaver Stake of Zion
Whereas: In the providence of the All Wise Supreme Being: Our Patriarchal President has attained to the advanced age of four score years and five and has been permitted to preside over our quorum for more than thirty-four years. And,
Whereas: In consequence of his great age, his impaired faculties have to some extent enfeebled his memory and his hearing, which has brought about his voluntary resignation of the position he has so long and so ably filled with ability; honor to himself and satisfaction to the quorum. Now, Therefore,
Be it Resolved: that in parting with our esteemed brother as our presiding officer, we tender to him this feeble acknowledgment of our appreciation, our heartfelt blessing and high esteem and invoke the choicest blessings of heaven and the communion of the Holy Ghost to abide with him as a comforter to impart to him guidance in the future as well as satisfaction and comfort for the past.
Resolved: that these resolutions be entered upon the minutes of this meeting and a copy thereof be presented to our worthy brother and friend.
John Lang
W. G. Nowers
D. L.
Com.
Passed by the High Priest Quorum of Beaver Stake, December 8, 1901.
W. G. Nowers, Clerk
Letter From Relative in Romeo Michigan
[Partly illegible]
Romeo, Mich.,
Jan. 5, 1902
My Dear Cousin, Mr. Tyler,
I don’t know what you will think of me for this apparent neglect. I hope you have not forgotten me, as I perhaps deserve to be forgotten. I had a great deal of mind trouble. That is much that harassed me and caused what might be called brain fog. I do not mean to infer that I have been insane, for I am not aware of having been, and had nothing more serious than a worn out brain from several causes.
My bodily health has been good though. I have taxed my ... for I do the utmost day after day and week after week. My Wheeler’s alive and well as usual. Mother and Hiram and wife remain in the old home. Mother’s general health is better. She still has the unpleasant head trouble. My object in writing is to inform you of our condition and to learn if you will have the kindness to write how you are. Cold weather is here, not severe at present but we have had some very cold weather.
My Cousin, I am still seeking for hidden treasure and have the assurance that it will be my happy lot to find it. I hope it will be while you remain visible in the flesh. Please tell me how you are progressing. I am studying Lessons in Divine Light by William Bower of Ava, Ill. He also intercedes for his students to give them Light and understanding. I don’t think I advance as fast as some, owing perhaps to things of an ... nature. [The rest of this paragraph I just can’t make out on this very poor copy.]
I received a letter a few days ago from Aunt Esther Howard’s sister, cousin Josephine Tanner [I think]. They had had ... letter ... since last April. [illegible].
... also of your daughter, Cousin Alice Tanner. I have no word from Pennsylvania since writing you.
I will close, hoping you will pardon my long silence and favor one with an early reply. I send love from Mother, Mr. Wheeler and myself. Mother wold also love to hear from you, and I expect has been impatient over my delay in writing.
Very Affectionately,
Esher E. Wheeler
Romeo, Mich.
Letter To His Grandsons, Daniel and John
Beaver, Utah
June 10, 1902
Daniel Tyler
John P. Tyler
My Dear Grandsons,
We are all well and hope you and the rest of our Kindred are all the same. We are all pleased that you and the rest of the family are doing so well and we hope you all appreciate it and thank the Lord for it. I hope you will not get weary of my writing so much and often about our work for the dead. My reason is that at my age I cannot hope to remain very much longer to tell you what I want and expect of you. Your Uncle John will do what he can while he lives but hi is poor and a family to support from his labor and we cannot expect much from him. Besides, he will soon be getting old and when he passes away, you will be the next nearest of kin to me and will take the lead in our Tyler Temple work, which you already know will be a great and good work.
Your Uncle John’s children will work with you when they are old enough, also the young members of your father’s and mother’s family. I think you and John should each subscribe for the Tyler Family History. I sent you blanks to fill out. If you don’t know how to fill them out, write me which priced ones you want and I will fill them out and forward them. I have ordered the leather bound because the cloth bound is not much account. I wrote Daniel about whose interest the Temple work should be done, but I have since learned that the blank book in which the work is to be recorded does not say anything about that, so it will be recorded to those who do the work.
I cannot see the lines to write on them. I am also hard of hearing and my memory broken. All join me in much kind love to you all.
Most Affectionately,
Daniel Tyler
Letter to Daniel From His Granddaughter, Florence Adair
Logon, Nev.
June 22, 1902
Mr. Daniel Tyler
Beaver, Utah
My Dear Grandfather,
Excuse me for not answering your kind and welcome letter I received some time ago. I have been so busy I haven’t had time to write. Well, Grandpa, if ever I am able and can, I will do all I can to help you get your work that you spoke about. But I can’t at the present time. But when the children get big enough so I can leave them, I would do all I can and be glad to do so.
Do you ever hear from Ada? Well, dear Grandpa, your letters are a comfort to me, but Grandpa, you mustn’t blame me for grieving for my darling. We thought so much of each other and you know I am young to have my darling husband taken away from me. I know it was the Lord’s will and he took him for some good purpose but I can’t help but feel lonely and sad. So don’t be angry at me. If I was old like you so I would know that it wouldn’t be long until I would meet my darling. But if I live to be as old as you are, just see how long I will have to be here alone without him.
I hope this will find you all well. It leaves us all middlin’ well. I would like to see you all. Give my love to all and accept the same yourself. I would be pleased to hear from you at any time.
From your loving Granddaughter,
Florence Adair
Letter to Alice From Niece, D. T. Adair
Logon, Nev.
June 22, 190...
Mrs Alice Tanner
Beaver, Utah
My Dear Aunt,
After so long a time I will attempt to answer your most kind and welcome letter, which I received some time ago. I have been so busy lately that I didn’t have time to write. We are all middlin’ well at present and I hope this will find you all well. Everybody is getting ready for the fourth of July and I am doing quite a bit of sewing. I have got two or three nice dresses to do before then, so you will see it will keep my busy. I have been sewing carpet rags the last three days. I got 10 cents a lb. And I sewed 30 lbs. The last three days. I am a going to weave new carpets too.
I have been living with my folks all winter and spring. They live about 25 miles from here but I thought I would try and help myself a little. So I came down here about a month ago. I have had work nearly ever since I came down. Pa and Ma are getting old and I thought I was just as able to work as they were. The folks are pretty good with me. They always let me have work whenever they have it.
It is pretty hot here now. I would rather be in Utah where it isn’t as hot but if I had somewhere to go where I could get work, I can’t hardly stand the hot weather. The last letter I had from sister Em, she said Ed was worse again. Well, Aunt Alice, I try hard to control my feelings when I write, but it is pretty hard to do. Now how Grandpa is, he is old and now he don’t think I ought to grieve and feel bad but I can’t help it. I know he means alright but he is to ... realize how young I am to be left when I thought so much of my ... husband and he thought lots of me. ... little ones. If I was old, I guess I could stand it a little better. Then I would know it wouldn’t be long until we would meet again. But I was only 26 and he ... 28 of May, so you see, I may ... a long while yet. We can’t tell. ...if I can raise the children like they ought to be raised so they will be able to meet their father and if I can live so I will be worthy of him. I will do the best I can and stand best I can but it is pretty hard and every day seems worst instead of better. I miss his kind loving ... and caresses. Our boy reminds me so much of my darling. Oh, Aunta, you don’t know how I suffer. Please excuse me writing this way. I can’t help it. I tried hard to keep from writing ...to you.
My love to all and write when you can. I am always glad to hear from .... Does me good to get letters from folks. I know then that I am still ... in my sad and lonely life. I remain as every, your loving niece,
Mrs. D. T. Adair
Logon, Lincoln Co., Nevada
C.R. Savage
Art Bazar
Jobber, Wholesale Dealer in
Frames, Mouldings, Books, Stationery, Art Material,
Photo Goods, Fancy Goods and Notions
12 and 14 Main Street
Salt Lake City, Utah, July 12, 1902
Dear Brother Tyler,
Your favor enclosing $6.00 for the enlargement duly received. I am glad it suited you. The regular prices for that size done in the style and finish of yours is $7.50 but I cut down the cost as much as possible for friendship sake. You can get them done as large for a cheaper price but if they are not good they are not worth anything to anybody.
I am much interested to learn of your noble lineage and hope that God may bless and preserve you until you have accomplished all you desire to do.
The weather is very warm just now. We are having some glorious times with the Old Folks -- nearly 1500 assembled at Lagoon and all was made happy.
Yours very truly,
C.R. Savage
Letter From Daniel’s Daughter, Emily, to her Niece, Jennie Tanner
[Envelope addressed to: Miss Jennie Tanner, Box 65, Beaver, Beaver Co. Utah.
From E.P.T. Adair, Blanco, N.M.]
8 March, 1903
My Dear Jennie,
We received your letter late last evening. We are as well as usual. My dear Father. I am trying to prepare myself for the worst but I cannot. In never expected to see him again in this life but that doesn’t make it any easier to bear when I hear of his suffering so. I do hope and pray he is better. He always said not to mourn for him and we ought not to when he will be so much happier. But oh my Heavenly Father, don’t take him yet. Leave him here for a comfort and to give us advice. Dear Allie, I am so sorry for you too, so sorry you are not well. Write soon, my dear sister.
Lovingly, sister and aunt,
Emily P. T. Adair
Yes, I think 60 is right
... to B... Johns if he comes.
Love to all.
Letter Daniel Wrote to Grandson, John in Idaho. No date given.
Mr. Jno. P. Tyler
Ako, Bingham Co, Idaho
My Dear Grandson,
We received your very welcome letter a few days ago. It lifted a heavy weight from my shoulders to know that you are willing to take hold and do what you can. I forgot to tell you in my last letter that your Uncle John has made a beginning in connection with your Grandma and me, in the St. George Temple, a good many years ago, and when you get ready, you can make a start and call on your brothers and sisters to help, when they are of suitable age. But you must have the Tyler History, by all means. You can’t get along without it. Be sure and get the leather binding as cloth does not hold up. The book can only be got by subscription. I subscribed and paid in advance for a copy a few years ago out of a little back pay I received from Government. But as Alice had the labor of caring for me, I felt it my duty to give it to her when published. I will send you a blank and the address. Be sure to attend to it right away. I believe you do not need to pay until you receive word that it is ready to publish, and money is needed to pay for printing.
I was also real pleased to receive such a nice letter from your wife. I remember very well her grandparents as good neighbors of mine. I would gladly give her a blessing were I able. But I am so feeble and my mind so broken that I have been compelled to quit giving blessings, although frequently solicited to do so.
All join in love to all,
Your affectionate Grandfather,
Daniel Tyler
I will say to Myrtle and all others who are
in the Tyler family, and their children. As
long as there is Tyler blood in their veins,
are legal heirs and entitled to work for
their dead as long as any die, and I hope
they will do so. Please give my kind regards
to your relatives of the Strong Family,
Grandpa
Letter Written by Alice For Daniel To His Grandson, John
22 Feb., 1903
Dictated by Grandpa
Mr. John P. Tyler
My Dear Grandson,
I am now old and feeble and feel that my work is about done. During the last half century I have spent over one hundred dollars ($100) and a great deal of time in hunting the genealogy of our ancestors who are anxiously waiting to be let out of their prison cells, and have done all I can in that direction myself. But I have only made a beginning in that great work. I have a great many names and expect several thousand ;more before the end of the year when the first volume of the Tyler History is published. Leading men in the Church told me years ago (what I already knew), that after I had done all I could in that direction, the work would devolve on my descendants.. I have written and sent messages to Daniel, your brother, upon whom your dear father and I had dotes as being the proper one to carry on the work. But I have received no response, and now I feel that it is my duty, if you will accept it, to roll it upon your shoulders with all the authority I possess. John Comins, the first heir, is willing but has not the means at his command to permit his carrying on the work.
There will be more than can be accomplished by all who are willing, when the book is published. It will require time and means, but you can work continuously and not cripple yourself to destroy your usefulness, but labor in the Temple in the Fall and Winter when you cannot do much else. You will require a blank record book, and blanks, and perhaps other items which do not occur to me now. But I want you to feel as I do, that you have a responsibility in this work. You may find things in my records that you cannot understand. But if you do, do not destroy the papers, but lay them aside and go on with what you can understand.
In the first place, there are many of those that I have done the work for, who have not been adopted as children to their parents. As far as you can understand, I wish you to have them adopted [sealed?]. My Grandfather, Nathaniel Tyler Jun. was a forerunner of this work and predicted its coming forth in the lifetime of my father, but not in his own. He died in 1829. He appeared to my father in a dream and told him that this was the true Church. I wish him to have his second anointing. I will send ... birth and age later.
The Tyler historian, W.I. Tyler Brigham, died last September, the month he had expected to have completed the first volume of the history. He contracted disease while hunting genealogy in the cold, damp climate of England, which caused his death. He was an outsider, but gave his time and labor, asking only that the Tyler Association pay his expenses, while doing this work, which is now left with his widow, a brother, and an old lady named Ladd, to complete.
Please answer this right away. Accept much love for yourself and wife, your mother and the rest of the children. We received Esther’s kind letter and will try and answer soon. If none of you have subscribed for the Tyler History, which I advised Esther to do, I will send you a subscription blank, as you will by all means need the book.
Your Grandfather, Daniel Tyler
Per Alice M. Tanner
Beaver, Feb. 22nd, 1903
All join in love to all.
Letter Written in Daniel’s Own Hand to a Granddaughter
[The writing is legible, though very shaky and crooked]
Beaver, Utah
Feb. 8, 1904
Dear Granddaughter and All,
Your most welcome letter to hand. We are pleased your fine dwelling is so near finished. I am pleased you inquired [about the] Tyler History. You should have one in the family by all means. You will not have to pay until the matter for the book is all in, when the historian will notify you. Then it must be on hand. The family should all help. Certainly you can raise $15.00. You have the farm, the sheep etc. I cannot expect you to see the importance of it as well as I do, who have been in the ... since before you were born (except your mother). ...to your Uncle John, you are the nearest relatives. The first heirs. When one of you is married, your companion becomes a relative of his people. So he can work for his males and you for his females. Your Grandmother and I worked that way. There will be some current expenses but you can see what your Grandma and me have done in our poverty and do the best you can and be satisfied. [No ending -- perhaps a page is missing.]
Letter From Daniel’s Cousin, Louisa Mitchell
Salt Lake City, Utah
21 Sept. 1904
Cousin Daniel Tyler,
I received your letter two weeks last Saturday and was very glad to hear from you. I haven’t had an opportunity to answer it until this evening. I was also pleased to hear that you was pretty well, and I myself am having better health than I have seen for some time. I hope you will regain your eyesight and get able to come and visit us once more that we ... and have a good time.
You spoke about my brother Alvin in your letter. Well, I don’t know what can be done. He never was cut off from the Church that I know of and if anything could be done, his wife could have it tended to.
Our weather here is simply beautiful for this time of year, although a storm has been threatening for several days. We have considerable sickness in the city. Typhoid fever is r aging throughout. We are well at present and hope to hear that this letter will find you all the same. I will bring my letter to a close, hoping to hear from you at your earliest convenience as a letter is always welcome.
I remain your affectionate cousin, Louisa Mitchell
Address: 163 N. 7th West
Salt Lake City, Utah
Adding the Following At The End
Recollections of the Prophet Joseph Smith by Daniel Tyler
(During 1891 and 1892 the Juvenile Instructor magazine published a series of articles entitled Recollections of the Prophet Joseph Smith. People who had known him personally contributed articles. We found several of these articles written by Daniel Tyler, our ancestor. They are as follows:)
Brother Daniel Tyler was born in Semproneous, Cayuga County, New York, November 23, 1816. He joined the Church in Springfield, Erie County, Pennsylvania, July 16, 1833. At this place he first met the Prophet, who came there to his father’s house. His impression of the Prophet’s character was, as states, that he was a meek, humble, sociable, and very affable man, as a citizen and one of the most intelligent of men, and a great prophet.
This testimony he also bears concerning him:
“My subsequent acquaintance with him more than confirmed my most favorable impressions in every particular. He was a great statesman, philosopher and philanthropist, logician, and last, but not least, the greatest prophet, seer and revelator that ever lived, save Jesus Christ only.”
Following are some of the recollections of the Prophet which Brother Tyler mentions:
“A short time prior to his arrival at my father’s house, my mother, Elizabeth Comins Tyler, had a remarkable vision. Lest it be attributed to the evil one, she related it to no person except my father, Andrews Tyler, until the Prophet arrived, on his way to Canada, I think. She saw a man sitting upon a cloud, clothed in white from head to foot. He had on a peculiar cap, different from any she had ever seen, with a white robe, underclothing, and moccasins. It was revealed to her that this person was Michael, the Archangel. She was sitting in the house drying peaches when she saw the heavenly vision, but the walls were no bar between her and the angel, who stood in the open space above her.
“The Prophet informed her that she had had a true vision, and it was of the Lord. He had seen the same angel several times. It was Michael, the Archangel, as revealed to her.
“During his short stay he preached at my father’s residence, an humble log cabin. He read the 3rd chapter of John and explained much of it, making it so plain that a child could not help understanding it if he paid attention. I recollect distinctly the substance of his remarks on the 3rd verse: Except a man be born again he cannot see the Kingdom of God.
“The birth here spoken of, the Prophet said, was not the gift of the Holy Ghost, which was promised after baptism, but was a portion of the spirit, which attended the preachings of the Gospel by the elders of the Church. The people wondered why they had not previously understood the plain declarations of the scripture, as explained by the elders, as they had read them hundreds of times. When the read the Bible it was a new book to them. This was being born again, to see the Kingdom of God. They were not in it but could see it from the outside, which they could not do until the Spirit of the Lord took the veil from before their eyes. It was a change of heart but not of state; they were converted but were yet in their sins. Although Cornelius had seen an holy angel, and on the preaching of Peter the Holy Ghost was poured out upon him and his household, they were only born again to SEE the Kingdom of God. Had they not been baptized afterwards they would not have been saved (see Acts, 10th chapter). Explaining the 5th verse, he said to be born of water and of the Spirit means to be immersed in waster for the remission of sins and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost thereafter. This was given by the laying on of hands of one having authority given him of God.
“His discourse was, I think, entirely on the first principals of the Gospel and he quoted many passages of scripture, but I do not recollect any other so clearly defined as those I have quoted. I have given his exact language, as near as I can recollect it, after a lapse of over fifty years --- nearly sixty years.
“The joy that filled my juvenile soul no one can realize except those who have had a foretaste of heavenly things. It seemed as though the gates of heaven were opened and a living stream flowed directly to the holy man of God. It also filled the house where we were sitting. To this day, when I think of it, which is quite often, and always when I hear those scriptures referred to, a thrill of joy and of testimony permeates the inmost recesses of my soul.
“About the time the doctrine of re-baptism for members in the Church was first revealed in Nauvoo, Joseph, the great seer and revelator to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, made some remarks on the subject. On one occasion he read, among other scriptures, Hebrews, 6th chapter, first and second verses as follows:
“Therefore, leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, of faith toward God, of the doctrine of baptism and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead and eternal judgement.’
“The Prophet said the first verse should read: ‘Therefore, ‘NOT leaving the first principles of the doctrine of Christ, etc.’ This explanation not only made the entire subject of the two verses clear but reconciled them with other scriptures. Notwithstanding, Paul is made to say leaving etc., the inference is clear that if the foundation of repentance, baptism, and the laying on of hands should be relaid, they would have to perform those works over again, as every careful reader of the text must see. This also corroborates a revelation to the Church of Ephesus: ‘Remember therefore, from whence thou art fallen, and repent and do the first works.’ All Latter-Day Saints know that the first works after repentance are baptism and the laying on of hands for the reception of the Holy Ghost. Here we find a presiding elder of a branch or ward of the Church commanded to perform these works over again, under pain of removal if he failed to obey the divine behest. Many more passages might be quoted to the same effect, but these are sufficient for my purpose. Joseph’s translation not only reconciles the text with itself, but also other scriptures, as already shown, and as was explained by the Prophet.”
Haun’s Mill
“Everyone has probably heard or read of the terrible martyrdom at Haun’s Mill. At this late date some may be led to inquire why did not the Prophet foresee this and avert the terrible calamity. The older saints, or those of long standing in the Church, understood all the particulars, but there are your young folks and future generations, who, not understanding some unpublished facts, would be liable and almost certain to marvel, as some already do. This is not strange, as the history of the Church shows that the man of God was in Far West, only about 20 ;miles distant.
“Well, young brethren and sisters, the following are a few of the facts: Brother Haun owned the mill, a grist mill, which took his name. From two to four days prior to the massacre, the citizens of the little settlement assembled in a mass meeting and appointed Brother Haun a committee of one to go to the city for advice to know what to do. The whole country was under arms and excitement. The Apostle David W. Patten, with Brothers Gideon Carter and O’Banion, had already sealed their testimony with their blood. Under these circumstances it was quite natural that small settlements should begin to inquire what was best for them to do.
“Brother Haun repaired to the city, and as the Prophet was but a private citizen and minister of the Gospel, in the legal sense, he first went to Captain John Killian, of the Caldwell County Militia, informed him of his appointment, and inquired what he and his brethren should do.
‘Move into the city,’ was the prompt reply.
Brother Haun: ‘What, and leave the mill?’
Captain Killian: ‘Yes, and leave the mill.’
Brother Haun: ‘What! To the mob?’
Captain Killian: ‘Yes, to the mob.’
“Brother Haun then left the captain and went to Brother Joseph, as the Prophet was familiarly called. He asked him the same questions and received the same answers, word for word. ‘But,’ responded the selfish mill owner, ‘Brother Joseph, we think we are strong enough to defend the mill and keep it in our own hands.’ ‘Oh well,’ replied he, ‘if you think you are strong enough to hold the mill you can do as you think best.’
“What more could he say? His method had always been, when his counsel was asked, to give it freely and leave parties to receive or reject it. He cold not, nor would not, if he could, take away people’s free agency. Brother Haun returned and reported that Brother Joseph’s counsel was for them to stay and protect or hold the mill. The rest the reader knows, or can become acquainted with by reading the published account of the terrible tragedy. The foregoing facts I had from the late Captain Killian in person.”
Second Article
Hearing the Prophet in Prayer
“At the time William Smith and others rebelled against the Prophet, as recorded in his history, when the walls of the Kirtland Temple were raised but a few feet above the ground. I attended a meeting on the flats, where Joseph presided. Entering the school house a little before the meeting opened, and gazing upon the Man of God, I perceived a sadness in his countenance and tears trickling down his cheeks. I naturally supposed the all-absorbing topic of the difficulty must be the cause. I was not mistaken. A few moments later a hymn was sung and he opened the meeting by prayer. Instead, however, of facing the audience, he turned his back and bowed upon his knees, facing the wall. This, I suppose, was done to hide his sorrow and his tears.
“I had heard men and women pray -- especially the former -- from the most ignorant, both as to letters and intellect, to the most learned and eloquent, but never until then had I heard a man address his Maker as though He was present, listening, as a kind father would listen to the sorrows of a dutiful child. Joseph was at that time unlearned, but that prayer, which was to a considerable extent in behalf of those who had accused him of having gone astray and fallen into sin, that they might see aright -- that prayer, I say, to my humble mind, partook of the learning and eloquence of heaven. There was no ostentation, no raising of the voice as by enthusiasm, but a plain conversational tone, as a man would address a present friend. It appeared to me as though, in case the veil were taken away, I could see the Lord standing facing his humblest of all servants I had ever seen. Whether this was really the case, I cannot say; but one thing I can say, it was the crowning of all the prayers I ever heard.
“When Joseph arose and addressed the congregation, he spoke of his many troubles, and said he often wondered why it was that he should have so much trouble in the house of his friends, and he wept as though his heart would break. Finally he said: ‘The Lord once told me that if any time I got into deep trouble and could see no way out of it, if I would prophesy in His name, he would fulfill my words,’ and added: ‘I prophesy in the name of the Lord that whose who have thought I was in transgression shall have a testimony this night that I am clear and stand approved before the Lord.’ The next Sabbath, his brother William and several others made humble confessions before the public. What their testimonies were, I never knew.”
[There is quite a bit more to this article I’m not typing. Joseph Smith prophesying that many would be martyred for the cause of the Gospel, and Joseph knowing ahead of time whether or not it was to be necessary to close a meeting or end a parade because of rain.]
A Third Article
Tells about the “Salt Sermon” and about the Prophet welcoming back a man who had turned against the Prophet and gave false testimony regarding him.
A Fourth Article
Tells about how the Prophet Joseph Smith was a great reconciler of discrepancies in passages of scripture which seemed to be in conflict with each other. He gives several examples.
From the Improvement Era, December 1947
The following was taken from the Improvement Era magazine, December 1947, volume 50, no. 12, from an article titled, “Joseph Smith -- Prophet”, by Levi Edgar young, president of the First Council of the Seventy. Page 798. It was about the building of the Kirtland Temple and the author of the article did not state the source of this writing of Daniel Tyler’s:
Says Daniel Tyler: “How often have I seen those humble, faithful servants of the Lord, after toiling all day in the quarry, or on the building, when the walls were in the course of erection, weary and faint, yet with cheerful countenances, retiring to their homes with a few pound of corn meal that had been donated. And in the case of those who lacked a cow to give a little milk, the cornmeal was sometimes for days together, all they and their families had to subsist upon. When a little flour, butter meat came in, they were luxuries.”
Other Writings of Daniels’s
There are other Juvenile Instructor articles by Daniel Tyler that we have photo copies of.
First: “An Unexpected Conversion.” About a talk he gave in Salt Lake in 1852.
Second: Several articles on Temples.
Land Records
Found on Microfilm # 929259 in Family History Library.
Beaver County, Utah ----Book C, page 24 -- Deeds.
This record shows that Daniel paid $3.00 on 4 October, 1872 that made a legal record of the “public lands” that he was living on. It also gives the description of the land.
Another record shows that his son Daniel Moroni Tyler and his wife Sarah, also owned a lot in Beaver. The date of this recording was the 28th of March, 1874.
Daniel sold his home in Beaver sometime in 1900 for $800.00. The letters he sent and received indicate that he continued to live in Beaver until his death, so we have to assume that his daughter, Alice Tanner’s family also had property in Beaver. Could it be that the lot originally owned by Daniel and Moroni was sold within the family?