A Compilation of General Voyage Notes
"DEPARTURES. . . . The ship Constitution, which was engaged in consequence of the non-arrival of the Resolute, sailed for New York on the 24th, having on board a company of Saints numbering 457 persons, 45 of whom were from Switzerland, Bavaria, Wurtemburg, and the Netherlands, and 412 from the British Isles. The following named returning missionaries took their departure in the Constitution: -- Elders Joseph S. Horne and John Hoagland, from the Swiss and German Mission, and Elders Harvey H. Cluff, C. P. Liston, Hyrum T. Spencer, and Nephi R. Fawcett, from the British Mission; also Elder Hugentobler, who has been laboring in the ministry in Switzerland, and Elder Van Stetter, who has been laboring in the Netherlands. At a meeting held on deck, President F. [Franklin] D. Richards delivered an address to the Saints, instructing them upon their duties to God and each other upon their journey both by sea and land, and promising them, on conditions of faithfulness, a quick and safe passage across the deep. He then appointed Elder Harvey H. Cluff president of the company, and Elders Joseph S. Horne and C. P. Liston his counsellors. Elder Horne interpreted his remarks for the benefit of the Swiss and German Saints, and the whole company voted unanimously to sustain the appointments. Everything on board the Constitution was neat and in good order, and the Saints departed in excellent spirits. . . ."
"Wed. 24. [June 1868] -- The packet ship Constitution, the last sailing vessel which brought any large company of Saints across the Atlantic, sailed from Liverpool, England, with 457 British, Swiss and German Saints, in charge of Harvey H. Cluff. It arrived at New York Aug. 5th, and the immigrants continued by rail to Benton."
Journal of George Wilcox Burridge
[June] 20 Closed up all business and handed the money and accounts of the conference to Elder Thomas H. Sibley and put my box and board the steamer at 12 noon and left 7 Tower Hill at about 4 p.m. and went on board the steamer for Liverpool and sailed from the Bathurst Basin, Bristol at 6 o'clock and had fair passage except on rounding Saint David’s Head, when we had it rather rough and was very seasick. Landed at Liverpool at 12 o'clock at night on the 22nd and found our way to Number 59, Great Cross, Hall Street.
23 Got our luggage, etc. on board the ship Constitution and this ship pulled out into the river about 11 o'clock at night.
24th Went on board and after the usual manner got ready for sea. Brothers F. [Franklin] D. Richards, Penrose, & Preston holding a meeting and appointing a president and counselors & commending us to the Lord. They took leave of the brethren and the Saints giving 3 cheers. The ship was turned out to holly [UNCLEAR] by the steam tug where we beat about for the night, the wind being contrary.
25 Weather very fine. Wind still contrary all day in the Irish Sea. Issued provisions, etc. I have been appointed to preside over the number one Young Men’s Ward. Good order with a good feeling prevailing on board. 5 boys who had hid themselves on board were discovered and were sent to shore.
26 A beautiful day with very little wind. Still in the Irish Channel, landed on the west.
27 A very fine morning with a light wind from the southwest. Saint David in sight. Got out of sight of land in the afternoon. With the other brethren Cluff, Horne, Hagland, Spencer, and Fawncett & Liston, administered to some sick sisters. At about 10 o'clock p.m., the wind shifted to northwest and we stood on our course.
28 Sunday All well on board. A fine day and a good light wind and favorable. Held a public meeting on deck at noon where we were instructed by Brother Cluff, Brother Horne speaking in German to the Swiss Saints. Passed Cape Clare [UNCLEAR, PROBABLY Cape Clear] at 5 o'clock.
29 Had a very fine morning with fair wind but light. All well on board. A very good and kind spirit prevailing. [p.46]
30th A beautiful morning with favorable but light wind and a heavy fog.
1st July Winds still light and favorable. Very foggy and damp.
2nd Morning clear with a fair but light wind from the east.
3rd A very fine clear morning with the wind still light. Evening, the wind freshened a little.
4th A beautiful morning wind from southeast rather light, making about five knots an hour. Brother Spencer rather worries but general good health prevailing on board and a good feeling. All feeling happy. A little show was made at keeping the celebration of the independence of the United States of America by the firing of rockets and by dancing& singing etc. etc.
5 Sunday. A mild day. Wind light but favorable. Held a public meeting on deck. Brothers Liston and Hagaland [Hagland] preached after which two children were blessed. Another meeting at 6 p.m.
6th Morning fine but a little cloudy with a pretty good wind from the southwest. Several schools of fish around the ship. The seamen harpooned one. Afternoon, wind freshened and came on rough and continued during the night with rain.
7 Cloudy, the sea rough, but the wind got not so rough as yesterday. Towards evening it got somewhat calm and the night was favorable. During the rough weather there was a good deal of sickness. I have felt some unwell today but got better toward night.
8 A fine bright morning with a light and favorable wind. People are much improved, but some of the aged one still weakly. I am better but had a slight cold. I find it is good to be in the hands of the Lord.
9th Cloudy morning, good wind from the southwest. Health on board generally good. A few elderly people weakly.
10th Wet morning, damp all day. Good fair wind, foggy night.
11 Wet morning, light wind.
12 Sunday. Wet morning, a good wind. Dined in the cabin with the captain and the chief mate and doctor and 3 of the elders, [p.47] H.H. Cluff, Horne, and Nephi Fawcett. Meeting at noon and at six o'clock on deck I held forth at the latter.
13 A fine morning. Light wind and afternoon very heavy rain. Wind increased to a good breeze and continued all night.
14 Cloudy morning and a good strong wind. The day turned out to be very fine. The wind became light but freshened during the night. Felt poorly.
15 A very mild and fine morning with a light wind from the west. Felt well and comfortable. Joined in the dance on deck with the brethren and sisters and enjoyed it very much.
16 A fine day with a strong wind from the west. A good dance in the evening which I took part. The night pretty rough but all well.
17 Cloudy morning with fog. A light head wind. Cleared and became a fine day. A dance in the evening in which I joined and enjoyed.
18 Morning very fine and warm with a light head wind. All well and cheerful. In the afternoon the wind increased almost to a gale and continued rough all night.
19 Sunday. Morning wet and foggy but cleared up after 8 a.m. and we had a very fine day. Dined in the cabin and enjoyed the dinner with the captain, doctor, Brothers Cluff and Spencer after which the captain showed us his charts and explained to us the course of the ship and other matters of much interest. At 3 p.m. held a public meeting on deck where Elders Cluff and Horne preached after which the wind changed a little to the northwest.
20 Foggy and cold. Passed an iceberg at 1:45 this morning10 miles to the south of the ship. Spent the afternoon in dancing and enjoyed ourselves. The night foggy.
21 A cold foggy morning and the whole day on the banks of Newfoundland. We saw some specimens of land & shell from the bottom of the sea. Spoke with a fishing smack soon after dark, and was amongst fishing vessels all night. One boat came alongside in the morning.
22 Still on the banks with a fair wind at about 4 ½ knots the hour. Foggy and cold. Fishing vessels in sight. The wind changed from west to the east in an answer to prayer at the meeting on Sunday by Brother Liston. Sister Clara Orchard came on deck and was very ill. I helped her [p.48] down the stairs & to her berth and then with the other brethren administered to her, anointing her with oil in the name of the Lord. Spent the evening in a dance on deck very agreeably. Very calm, but the wind freshened after 9 p.m. and we had a good gentle wind all night.
23 Foggy morning. Two whales passed the ship this morning. The fog cleared away after which the day was fine. 3 sisters very ill: Eliza Thomas, Clara Orchard, and Emma Thick. Afternoon very calm.
24 Morning fine with good fair wind. The day was celebrated by firing guns and the ship was arrayed in many colors being decorated with flags. The 7 Valley-elders [PROBABLY MEANING elders from Salt Lake Valley] climbed in the first cabins with the captain and doctor after which the people assembled on deck and one address or oration was delivered by Elder Liston followed by Elder Cluff and afterward we were entertained with toast songs until it came on to rain. The evening was very agreeable. Spirit in the dance and closed by the firing of rockets and burning a Tar B. [UNCLEAR]. A very strong wind during the night and some very heavy rain.
25 Morning fine. The sea very rough which is causing some sickness. A strong northwest wind which increased in the night.
26th A rough stormy morning, the sea very rough. Things pitching about the ship. Slop pails being upset and their contents flowing about the deck. Storm abated about 12 noon. The afternoon was fine, but the ship rocking very much. No meeting on account of the rough state of the weather.
27 A damp morning. No wind the ship rocking very much. A very fine day, but calm.
28 Morning being fine with light wind favorable. The day very fine & pleasant. The wind became fair and increased to a moderate breeze before dark and continued good during the night.
29th This morning some cloudy. A light shower of rain and the wind still good and favorable. Afternoon, the people gathered on the roof and the quarterdeck and enjoyed themselves singing. The wind continued good during the day & night.
30th Fine clear morning with still good and favorable. [UNCLEAR] Became very light. We had some very good dancing in the evening. [p.49]
31st The morning clear & fine. Some jealous feelings with the sisters or amongst a few. The wind changed to the west about whip [UNCLEAR] and we are now standing south. The spirits of the people seem to fluctuate with the wind in a great degree. A steamer from New York passed us. Head wind. One dance this evening.
1st August A head wind but all well.
2nd Sunday. Wind still ahead. A steamer passed us on the south 11 a.m, rain, meeting on deck at 2 p.m. Addresses by Brothers Spencer, Hagland, & Cluff. Meeting in the evening addressed by Brother Cluff in English & Horne in the German. I felt a little weak and unwell and did not attend the meetings. Retired early to bed. A fine night.
3rd A head wind. Morning fine. I feel some better. Between one & two o'clock the pilot came on board. A dance and some songs in the evening. Heavy rain as night came on.
4th Rainy morning. People preparing themselves for going on shore. A very light wind with occasional heavy showers of rain, thunder & lightning. In the evening and night got in sight of land and saw the lighthouse, p.m.
5 6 weeks out. Foggy morning. Got to Sandy Hook and dropped at anchor at a ½ past 9 o'clock a.m. Threw over beds, and all old rubbish, dirt, and a great many livestock.
6 Aug. Weighed anchor and set sails to go up to New York. Was taken inland by a steam tug and brought up the river and passed the fort where we were branded by the health officers, and after passing inspection went up near Castle Garden and anchored for the last time, and retired for the night.
7 A fine morning. Got up luggage. Brother Staines came on board and gave instructions relation to our going ashore. Landed at Castle Garden at half past 8 o'clock a.m. After passing through the offices we went on up the river to the railway station and weighed our luggage and took a stroll in the city. At 12 o'clock the train arrived and having got on board we started at 2 o’clock on the Hudson River Line Railroad. Got to Albany on the 9th August where we stayed and changed cars and then made another start. Enjoyed the trip up the Hudson and rejoiced to be again in the land of Zion. Got to Rochester and while stopping here went and saw the Genesee Falls. Went on the ten Aug. and passed the Niagara Falls at about 10 o'clock a.m. and arrived at Windsor at 3 o'clock p.m. [p.50]
August 11. Got on the cars and started for Chicago where we arrived at 9 ½ o'clock on the 12th. [p.51] [ABRUPT END TO DIARY]
BIB: Burridge, George Wilcox. Diaries (Typescript) (Ms 8667), vol. 1, pp. 46-51. (HDA)
Autobiography of Harvey Harris Cluff
Monday 22-23 Tuesday. These were two very busy days. President Richards informed me that he had appointed me president of the company of Saints to sail on the Constitution, as the “Resolute” had not arrived in port & he desired me to arrange the passengers in their berths. I met the Scottish as they arrived and conducted [them] to the Constitution. The arranging of the Saints was no small matter. It was a very late hour before I attempted to retire and even then I did not sleep during the whole of the night. In the evening of the twenty-third the Constitution pulled out into the Mersey.
Wednesday 24th. All hands and all things was prepared. The government officers came on board before whom the Saints passed one by one. Not an objection to anyone. This done, President Richards assembled the Saints and addressed them briefly upon the duties and faithfulness that they should diligently observe to insure a safe voyage over the water. He then informed the people that he had selected Elder H. [Harvey] H. [Harris] Cluff to preside over the Saints during the voyage and asked them to manifest their willingness to sustain me in this calling. The vote to sustain me was unanimous. He then presented J. [Joseph] S. Horne and C. P. Liston as my counselors who were sustained by vote. "We promise you a safe voyage beloved Saints, through your faithfulness to and humility before God." The officers and President Richards and elders left the Constitution amidst shouts and waving of handkerchiefs. There was no sorrow hanging upon the countenances of the passengers, the entire company of over four hundred souls.
The Constitution, as I have said, was a substitute for the “Resolute” and was a substitute really unworthy the cognomen. The Constitution had sacrificed the upper deck by fire some years ago and since that event, it had been used as a lumber freighter, & only from the fact that it was the only vessel in port belonging to the company, the “Resolute” failing to arrive on scheduled time. We were not aware of the condition of the vessel or great fear would have frenzied the people and given them such a fright, a stampede might have occurred before sailing. (Note further on what the [p.100] captain says concerning the Constitution. One very important change made inside of the vessel which must have been conducive of the health which was enjoyed by the emigrants. I refer now to the arrangements inside which were entirely new. The sleeping berths were put up with new lumber and as the ship had been freighting lumber there was no bad smell.
At 2 o'clock p.m. the tug pulled us out into the open channel and did not leave us until midnight. I addressed a brief letter to President Richards. On the following day we waltzed first towards Ireland there to Wales, tacking and retacking with scarcely breeze enough to swing us around. Towards evening five stowaways were discovered on board. We effected a complete organization dividing the decks into wards and placing an elder over each ward.
On the 26th the Captain William Hatten awoke me early to write a letter to President Richards if I chose to as a vessel was approaching and he could forward a letter to England. I therefore wrote another short letter to Brother Richards. The five stowaways were put on this vessel and sent back to England. We are still waltzing on the bosom of the quiet deep: but on Saturday the 27th a big breeze waltzed us towards America at about 9 knots per hour, and as the ship began to heave, the passengers began heaving also. The deck was soon minus passengers and huddled below, such of the passengers who had never been on the ocean and experienced seasickness, were frightened and myself and returning elders were frequently called upon to administer to such. Others again were frightened to walk the upper deck for exercise notwithstanding we urged them to do so. The huddling of four hundred people below in the throws of seasickness, produced a nausea to well folk. So when we elders visited the sick below we found it very difficult to keep our stomachs from heaving. Elder Liston especially was unable to retain food on his stomach for eight or ten days, yet strange to say he relished his eat and took a good square meal.
The cooking range was insufficient for such a large body of people. The time for cooking was divided pro rata with the six wards so that each ward would have its time and not interfere with the time of another. Some cooks were more expeditious than others [p.101] were and always ready to let their successor have access to the range at the stated time. Then when the hungry successor failed to get access to the range, loud and unpleasant words followed by imprecations, was the result. One very disagreeable characteristic is brought to the surface more prominently in Latter-day Saints when traveling. If the man or woman is not constantly in the enjoyment of the Holy Spirit, small things irritate and disturb their equilibrium. On the other hand, the man or woman in the full enjoyment of the Spirit of the Lord, would not notice small things or if noticed, he or she would be so imbued with patience that they would be able to maintain equilibrium and brotherly kindness. So when the whole sum of the matter is up, the character of fruit is perceivable and by words and our works are we judged. You cannot gather grapes from thorns, nor figs from thistles. We therefore accept the company composed of English, Scotch, Irish, Welsh and Swiss, and will do the best with each possible.
A moderation in the wind about eleven o'clock Sunday the 28th enabled us to hold meeting at the noon hour, which was addressed by myself and Counselor Horne.
During the time of our severest experience when the waves dashed furiously against the ship and occasionally over the upper deck sweeping everything off not made fast. We were in the midst of a cyclone, so the captain said, the fury of which passed around us. This was fortunate for us, as our frail vessel could not endure the full force of a cyclone. As it was water came in the side of the ship by force of the waves, so that bedding of the passengers was made wet and remained so until the weather permitted putting them out to dry. After the storm subsided, we the elders, worked diligently to keep clean below by washing and fumigating from day to day. By the sanitary vigilance which we preserved kept the health of the passengers was kept [UNCLEAR] in very good condition during the entire voyage. One very important arrangement which we adopted by special permission of the captain was to keep the passengers on deck until bedtime. The nights were very delightful and sitting on deck enabled friends to visit and count their suffering over or sing songs that enlivened and cheered our souls. It can be said of a truth that the Saints had very [few] regrets in making [p.102] their journey to Zion.
The services of the ship doctor was only called upon once during the entire voyage, that was to see a child. The mother of the child became alarmed and desired the doctor to see the sick child. I had to lead the doctor below as he was unable to walk the deck alone. The doctor Mr. Johnson gave certain prescriptions and after I returned him to his room on the upper deck, I repaired to the sick child, the mother in tears. I said, "Sister, do you wish to follow the advice of the doctor?" She said "No!" Then said I, "What would you like done for the child?" "I desire the Elders to administer to my child." "That," said I, "is the very thing I have desired you to ask for, but I wished you to be satisfied as to a doctor, by him visiting you." I called the elders and we administered to the child and the next morning the child was quite well.
The doctor entered a complaint to the captain, because I did not deal out to him one quart of beer and a pint of wine daily, which amount he said he must have. The captain said the beer, wine, and brandy were in the possession of Mr. Cluff, and can only be given out to sick emigrants. The doctor also complained because he was not called upon to visit the sick. "Doctor" said Captain Hatten, "these people are Mormons and don’t believe in doctors, but of course the government compels us to have a doctor on board, hence you are here, and unless Mr. Cluff requests your services you are not to go among the people."
The monotony of the voyage in calm weather was sometimes broken by shoals of porpoise which were very diverting in their swimming all in one direction, which was evident as they shoot out of the water and then plunge into the water all headed one way. It might be termed a "stampede" for the whole surface of the sea was in commotion for a long distance.
The two incidents that I am about to relate were with the carpenter and captain, and the captain and first and second mate. The carpenter got angry with a pig, which the captain intended for fresh meat before the voyage was over, and threw it into the sea, and when the captain discovered it struggling for life, he started with his vocabulary of swearing and never stopped until he reached the end of all applicable adjectives and our Captain Hatten was certainly an expert at swearing if the term be proper in this case. [p.103] The row in the other incident began with the first and second mate, which culminated in the second mate drawing a knife to stab the first mate which however was prevented, but the captain's ire was again in fever heat, and repetition of swearing was indulged in. The captain was better versed in the use of profanity than any other part of the English language. The result of the fracas was the confinement of the second mate in chains. The faults of the captain were somewhat mitigated in our feelings by the feeling of kindness which he showed toward us and our people. He granted to us the “freedom of the ship” so to speak and when any of the elders who were sick, especially C. P. Liston, he would have the steward prepare something extra from his own table. The cabin passengers who ate with the captain were, the first and second mate, the doctor and myself.
The 4 of July was only recognized by the captain sending up fire rockets and the loading of a large barrel with combustibles and touching fire to it and lowering it down which was seen burning for a long time after the lowering. Songs, toasts and cheers whiled away the evening to the amusement of the passengers and at a late hour all retired to get a few hours sleep.
As we advanced towards the promised land, the captain grew more familiar and confiding with me so that he imposed, (implied) confidence in me. He confidentially told me of the unsafe ship Constitution; that it was unseaworthy and no emigrant but Mormons would venture to cross the sea in such a ship. "I tell you Mr. Cluff, I will not attempt to take this ship back to England," said he.
No greater danger to navigators is met within this track of the ocean than the iceberg especially in the vicinity of Newfoundland banks. On the 21 of July we passed a huge iceberg three miles in length and probably four miles long. The coldness in the vicinity of this mountain of ice made one feel that he was within the fridged zone.
I now copy my letter of appointment from President Richards as I failed to insert it in its legitimate place in the journal.
42 Islington, Liverpool June 23 1868 [p.104]
To the Latter-day Saints on board the ship Constitution.
Beloved Brethren and Sisters:
This certifies that Elder Harvey H. Cluff has been appointed to preside over you during your passage hence to New York and Elders Joseph Horne and C. P. Liston, his counselors to assist him in all the duties of the presidency.
You are exhorted beloved Saints to receive these brethren in the capacity to which they are appointed and receive their counsels with joy and gladness that you may have peace and blessings during your passage over the ocean and confidence to grow in all that exalts the righteous in the estimation of our God and secure to you his constant favor and protection. Especially I exhort you to avoid the least shadow of discord on account of speaking different languages, realizing that all are equally the children of God who keep his commandments. One and all of the Saints on board are particularly requested to aid in preserving cleanliness and good order, that health and happiness may reign predominant among you; remember your prayers at the appointed time, that the Lord may not forget you when you most need his arm outstretched for protection.
Affectionately,
Your brother in the gospel
F. [Franklin] D. Richards
To furnish a change of program from the monotony which has prevailed for some time past, the 24th of July came along reminding us of the arrival of the pioneers in the valley of the mountains, the place to which we are bound and in honor of the day, the captain hoisted flags and at night illuminated the ship. We held a meeting on deck and C. P. Liston acted as orator of the day. Speeches, songs, recitations, toasts entertained the audience for two hours. The captain gave a toast in honor of Apostle O. [Orson] Pratt with whom he had crossed the Atlantic Ocean twice. He spoke very highly of the Apostle. The captain got up a fine dinner and invited the returning missionaries: Joseph S. Horne, C. P. Liston, John Hoagland, Hiram T. Spencer, George Burridge, Nephi Fawcett, and David Dunn to dine.
The following are the names of the company of Saints which I [p.105] presided over crossing the sea and through the states: [THESE NAMES ARE LISTED ON PAGES 106-108 AND ARE INCLUDED IN THE PASSENGER LISTS].
. . . It was on the 3rd day of August when the pilot from New York came on board 12:30 o'clock p.m. We were delighted in the fact that we were near land yet we could not see it. The pilot reported that the Emerald Isle [arrived], which sailed four days before the Constitution in which we are sailing. The 4th day of August was a joyful day for it was on that day that the land of America was sighted, a sight long desired by all on the Constitution. We all felt that no regrets would occur with any of the passengers in removing from the Constitution to land, and for land transportation as a change from the sea voyage.
How can we feel grateful enough to our Heavenly Father for the blessings which he has so graciously bestowed upon the passengers of the Constitution. Considering the kind of ship, the crowded passengers into a corral as it were, and the leakage of the old tub, makes our preservation still more to be thankful for. While it is true we had some sickness, yet the perseverance of the elders in watching their wards and looking after health of the people, administering to the afflicted and giving comfort to the despondent and cheering up the downcast. Thus we arrived in the port of New York without losing a single passenger and without any contagion, and four days ahead of the ship Emerald Isle which was considered a good seaworthy vessel. I think Dr. Johnson was the most feeble man on board the Constitution. He remained on his bed [p.108] most of the time, under the influence of opium. He will not crave in the future permission to be a doctor on a ship with Mormon emigrants.
Sunday Aug. 5 late in the evening the Constitution cast anchor off from Castle Garden, New York. I went ashore with the captain hoping to meet H. B. Clawson, the church shipping agent, but failing to find him, I put up at a hotel near where the captain stayed with a friend. I felt disappointed in not meeting with Elder Clawson and in the morning, I hastened to the ship. From the shore I reached the ship by canoe for which I paid fifty cents. The tugboat was there taking on the luggage of the passengers to transport to the Castle Garden, for inspection by the government revenue officers. Here is the first trial that emigrants encounter on land. Every box, trunk, and grip is torn open and their contents hauled out to find if possible contraband goods. Usually Mormon emigrants are not possessed of goods liable to confiscation, if however an emigrant suspects he is liable and he may if he is up to the "tip" business, induce the office to look at his trunk with one eye shut, if he opens it at all. When the officers were through their investigation, the luggage and emigrants were reshipped on the tugboat and taken up the Hudson to the railroad station. Here the luggage and emigrants were booked for the west.
Aug. 7th 2 o’clock p.m., the train pulled out following up the Hudson River. I remained at the Church shipping office to finish up some business with the agent Clawson. Business finished, I jumped aboard the express train and stopped at the first station after passing our emigrant train and waited until our train came up and I joined my company joyfully. The following morning we researched Albany, capital of the State of New York where we remained until noon. As I held the ticket for the entire company, the railroad agent called me to his office and said he wanted to count the company and would go through the train just [as] it was ready to pull out and he desired me to go through with him. This gave me an opportunity of saying to the friend I could depend upon to remain outside and especially see that all the emigrants were inside. Agent Clawson gave me [to] remember that it was possible that some poor person might join us while we were passing through [p.109] the states. Such had occurred with other trains carrying our people and if you have any board the train and join the company you might get along with railroad officials the best you can. I passed through the cars with the agent and counted every person and when finished, we had the exact number as I had tickets call for and yet there were six men outside showing evidently that six persons had joined us since leaving New York.
In order to have order in the cars during our journey we appointed one elder to each car as we had done on shipboard. The duty of these brethren was to keep track of their number of passengers, keep things tidy in the cars and have prayer night and morning and avoid contention. I was again informed that the company would be counted at the Suspension Bridge passing over the line into Canadian dominion and therefore I took the opportunity of being left at Rochester and after the train had gone, I informed the railroad agent that I was left and that I had the ticket for the entire company and he requested the agent at the Bridge to let the company pass. I boarded a freight train to the bridge and got on the express train Sunday evening and next morning overtook the company at Detroit, as it was just ready to pass back into the United States. Here the people had a little time to provide themselves with a few necessaries in the food line. We leave Detroit about 10 o’clock a.m. and arrive in Chicago the following morning. From Chicago to Omaha we only had 3 passenger cars, the other cars to make sufficient for the company were box cars. I experienced the greatest difficulty in pacifying the people. The three passenger cars were not capacity for the women and children and of course single men rushed into and filled them. The only inducement I could offer was “All ye single and able bodied men and boys come with me and let the women and children and aged occupy the passenger cars, we will have at an unknown age jolly time together.” It was very galling for them to give up cushioned seats and go into old box cars. It was a trying time and a most ridiculous requirement from the officials of the railroad. I had the headache, backache, side ache, bellyache, leg ache, feet ache, and conscience ache, but we arrived in Omaha without anything worse than the aches [p.110].
It was in the morning of August 13th when we arrived in Omaha and in the evening of the same day when we pulled out. We were on a grass plot near where the train was to stand. I should [UNCLEAR, PROBABLY stood] about one hundred yards away. Before the people were allowed to board the train the agent came to me and said, “I want to count your people before the train starts,” “Yes sir said I. How do you propose to do it?” “We will [place] several men about half way between the people and the cars and count them as they pass to the tram.” Well if the agent had known what the people had endured coming from Chicago to Omaha, he would never [have] adopted that mode of counting. I was never so amused on the whole trip from Liverpool to that place. There were six passenger [cars] trained up in full view of the people. Six cars for nearly five hundred five hundred emigrants. I said to the people as instructed by the agent, “You must not go to the train until the agent gives the word.” Everyone with his food basket, grif [UNCLEAR] and parcel was ready and when the word was given, you never saw a greater stampede of people than occurred upon that occasion. Counting the people was as difficult as it would have been to count a herd of cattle in a stampede. Why the agents had to get out of the way or be trampled down, and they did get away uttering and muttering imprecations, oaths and threats, but the stampede continued until all were in the cars. The agent concluded to telegraph to a station ahead and instruct an agent to count the people while the train was in motion. I concluded we reached the climax and that the fourteen person [UNCLEAR] who swelled our number would certainly be caught. I did not feel responsible for the presence of these people on the train and therefore I had no right to put them off. The train pulled out from the Omaha Station at 7 o’clock p.m. It taxed our our [SIC] most patient energy for two hours to get the people quieted down and reconciled to their crowded condition. One disagreeable incident occurred which marred our peace. Elder Spencer and Brother Neil got into a disputation which resulted in a fight and as Spencer struck Neil he fell back, his elbow striking a young lady in the breast which caused her to faint. I succeeded in restoring quiet and repentance effected between the two assailants and we move on without any trouble worth mentioning and arrive in Benton which was on the 16th of August. Benton is the terminus of the railroad. Here the wagon company of Captain Gillispie from [p.111] Utah was waiting our arrival. We were taken by Captain [John] Gillispie out to his camping grounds where we remained in camp until the arrival of the luggage of the emigrants. We received the goods and on the 23rd we started out crossing over an unbroken country . . . [p.112]
. . . We had two deaths at Hardie Station in Parley’s Canyon. That made four deaths in the company during the journey from Liverpool to Salt Lake City. From Hardie Station, I walked to Salt Lake City in advance of the company. This was September 15th 1868. . . . [p.113]
BIB: Cluff, Harvey Harris, Autobiography and Journals (Ms 1687, vol. 1, pp.100-5,108-13. (HDA)
Letter of Harvey Harris Cluff - June 26, 1868
Ship Constitution, June 26, 1868.
President F. [Franklin] D. Richards.
Dear Brother,–The captain just disturbed my slumbers by asking if I desired to send a few lines to you, so I am scratching away in a hurry. The captain is sending to land five stowaways. The poor, miserable fellows were forced to make their appearance through starvation. We are now off Wicklow Head. The wind has been very unfavorable, so we have the pleasure of cruising first to examine the coast of Ireland, then Wales, then for variety sake, the Isle of Man. When we are fully satisfied with the excursionary part of our voyage, we expect to leave these washings, and acquaint ourselves with a better country. We are taking it like the wise man who performs a long journey–slow and easy at first, which will gradually ensure the passengers, so that the roughness, when it comes, will not be so severe on them. There has been very little sickness as yet, and all feel first rate. I never in all my life saw a more peaceable company of people. Every one seems to be as cheerful as though they were at home, and some perhaps more so.
Getting the supplies together has caused us considerable difficulty, for the mate did not know where the varieties were, and we have overhauled so as to make a selection, but we shall get along all right when once broken in.
Those five persons who were secreted somewhere in the ship are young men, but where they were has not yet been found out. They were not below among our people. The captain is very kind and sociable, and I think we will get along all right.
I am, with love to all, yours respectfully,
H. H. Cluff. [p.445]
BIB: Cluff, H.[Harvey] H.[Harris]. [Letter], Latter-day Saints’ Millennial Star 30:28 (July 11, 1868) p. 445.
Letter of Harvey Harris Cluff - August 5, 1868
Ship Constitution, off Sandy Hook, August 5, 1868.
President F. [Franklin] D. Richards.
Dear Brother,--As we are nearing the port of New York, and soon expect to set our feet upon land, we write to give you a little information in regard to our voyage across the sea, and the general health of the passengers; knowing that you will be pleased to learn of our progress, and especially to know that thus far we have pursued our journey towards Zion without losing a single soul.
We left Liverpool, as you are aware, on the 24th of June, about one o’clock p.m., under very favorable circumstances, and after cruising along the coasts of Ireland and Wales, endeavoring to work our way out of the channel, we managed, after thus spending a few days, to get into the open sea. Though we have not been far off the right course, yet the calms have been so frequent, and of longer duration than the breezes, that we have had a longer passage than was anticipated when we left Liverpool. One thing, though, has been greatly in our favor: the gentleness of the fore part of the passage gave the people a gradual hardening to sea life; so that, when afterwards the sea became rough, it did not have such a serious effect upon them as it otherwise would have done. By this, and other means connected with the providence of God, the lives of all have been spared, and not one taken from our little company by death or otherwise, for which we greatly rejoice in the Lord.
We organized the company into wards, placing an elder over each ward; after which, we selected some trusty brethren, who were free handed, from each ward, to look after the welfare of the sick, and to assist in keeping cleanliness among the people. These brethren, laboring in conjunction with the presidents of each ward, and all in connection with us, enabled us to keep things in a healthy condition, taking all things into consideration. We established a time for prayer, both in the morning and evening, which was pretty punctually attended to by all. We also held Divine Service every Sabbath except one, which, owing to a severe rain storm and rough sea, was skipped. A splendid feeling was enjoyed in our meeting, and excellent instructions given. Our arrangements for the good of the company were so nicely carried out, and the faith of the whole company so great, that the doctor became dull and stupid, and, no doubt, would have had a very severe attack of the gout, had not the “medicine chest” contained a good supply of opium. Of course, the doctor felt as though his profession was fast falling into disrepute, and that he would have to follow farming soon for a living, or become lean.
Great praise is due to Captain Hatten for the interest he manifested towards the passengers, and the many liberties extended to them, which had a great tendency in enabling us to keep the health of the company good. He also took much interest in adding to the little celebration which we endeavored to get up for the 24th of July, as also the 4th, by hoisting flags, shooting rockets, and illuminating the ship. Speeches, songs, and toasts were indulged in, added to which the captain provided a good dinner for the elders returning home, and thus the day was spent with joy and rejoicing, and no doubt will long be remembered by the Saints who were on the ship.
We are now above Sandy Hook, having passed it without any difficulty, and are in hopes to have a tug boat soon. We expect to land this afternoon. I think all will be able to land without any difficulty. The company are all well, unless it be a few aged, who were feeble when they came on board.
With kind love to yourself, and all the brethren with you, we remain, most respectfully, your brethren in the gospel of peace,
H. H. Cluff
J. S. Horne
C. P. Liston [p.572]
BIB: Cluff, H.[Harvey] H. [Harris], [Letter], Latter-day Saint’s Millennial Star 30:36 (September 5, 1868) p. 572. (HDL)
Autobiography of Joseph Smith Horne
. . . June 15th Brother Maeser went to Basel to arrange for emigrants who will gather there tomorrow. In the evening a number of the Saints, Brother Hoagland and I spent a very pleasant evening at Sister Giague's. Some were ready to emigrate. Our social continued until 3:15 a.m. on the 16th, when we who were ready to travel set out on our journey to Basel. Our luggage was sent on the 15th. In Basel we found Brother Maeser and several who are going Zionward. In Mannheim 4 persons joined us. So we are now 44 adults and 2 children. In Liverpool we were kindly treated by our brethren, also emigration agents. Went on board the ship Constitution a sailing vessel. Our company now consists of 384 adults, 36 children and 20 babies and 7 returning missionaries. Elder Harvey H. Cluff was appointed president with C. P. Liston and J. S. Horne counselors. Our company was divided into 6 wards, with one of the returning elders to preside over each. The 6th Ward contained the Swiss and [p.60] Germans. I was appointed to preside over it. Our captain's name is Hatten. Had a tedious but safe voyage, being 42 days on the water. On July 4th we saw a beautiful sun fish. We had a little "social" on the deck in the evening, and the captain surprised us with some nice fire works. Services were held on deck each Sabbath day, and we always had some men on guard to maintain order. There was dancing on deck on the 15th. The captain and first mate quarreled. The captain became angry, took the mate by the hair, shook him and scolded, swearing dreadfully. On the 27th, 28th and 29th I assisted the captain in making out 3 lists of passengers. I gladly accepted his invitation to dine with him in the cabin.
On Aug. 1st I collected money from the Swiss passengers who wanted to have American money instead, so the business could be soon attended to in New York. In New York Harbor officers examined us as to our health. Thus, Aug. 6th we were welcomed to Castle Garden by our agent, William C. Staines and aids. On the 7th at 2 p.m. we started west on cars. Our course was via Albany, Rochester, Suspension Bridge, Detroit, Chicago, Omaha to Benton, the railroad terminus. Here men and teams from Utah waited our arrival, and on Sunday 16th we were taken by wagons to "Mormon Emigration Camp" 4 miles distant. . . . [p.61]
BIB: Horne, Joseph Smith, Autobiography, Utah Pioneer Biographies, vol. 2, pp.60-61. (FHL)
Letter of Joseph Smith Horne - July 22, 1868
Ship Constitution banks of Newfoundland, July 22, 1868.
President F. D. Richards.
Dear Brother,--Having been released from my labors in the Swiss, Italian, and German Mission, to return to my home in the mountains, I felt a desire to write a few lines to you before crossing the mighty deep; but having so short a notice to get myself, and the Saints now emigrating from said Mission, ready and in Liverpool in time to sail on this vessel, and being much hurried, I was not able to do so; I therefore improve the present opportunity, and give you a [p.570] few items.
At a special Conference held in Salt Lake City, April 10, 1856, I and several others were called to go on missions to Europe, and notwithstanding my own weakness and inexperience, I felt willing to do the best I could and trust in the Lord, realizing that he was able and ready to assist his servants in the fulfilment of their missions and calling. We had a pleasant journey across the Plains and through the States. I and twenty-six other brethren crossed the sea to Liverpool in the steamship Louisiana.
Having permission from President D. H. Wells, I was on a visit to the Kent Conference, where I found several of my mother’s relatives, none of whom were members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, when I received information that I and Brother John Hoagland had been appointed to labor in the Swiss, Italian, and German Mission, under the direction of Elder W. P. Nebeker; consequently I made my way to London, where Brother Hoagland joined me, and we proceeded to our field of labor. Our first and greatest labor for the remainder of that year, was to study the German language, of which we were entirely ignorant, and which we should have to use in this country.
Being now amongst people with whom we could not converse, we were unable to teach either Saints or sinners by precept, nevertheless we could and did endeavor to teach some by example, and I believe we did some good in that way. By diligent study, and through the assistance of the Spirit of God, by which our minds were enlightened and our memories strengthened, we soon became sufficiently acquainted with the language to enable us to converse with the people a little, and we began to feel as though we could do something now. Our labors were blest, our hearts were cheered and comforted, and we rejoiced in doing what we could for the cause of Zion and to spread the truth.
I labored as traveling elder in Canton Zurich and Thurgan, making an occasional tour to East Switzerland, until being appointed by President B. Young, Junior, in April 1867, to succeed Elder Nebeker as president of the mission. After he and Elder G. B. Spencer started home (in April), Elder Hoagland and I were the only valley elders in the mission, till Elders Maeser and Ursenbach arrived in August last.
The Lord has greatly blessed me since I left home. My labors have been pleasant to me, and I trust that I have done some good. I feel as though I can return home with a clear conscience, realizing that I have done something for the advancement of the kingdom of God, and hoping that my labors have been accepted to Him and his servants.
The Saints in Switzerland are a good people; they are poor, and have to work hard, but they are warmhearted, and I say, may God abundantly bless them for their kindness to me, and may those who are honest soon have the privilege of gathering home to Zion. They rejoice in their knowledge of the truth, are zealous in trying to serve the Lord, and may their faith and good works increase, until they share the blessings promised to the faithful in Israel.
Perhaps a few words about our present voyage might be interesting to you. As is usually the case, we had not been long on the water before some were affected and became seasick. We have had many calls to administer to the afflicted, and in almost, if not every case, the prayer of faith has healed them. We certainly have great reason to be thankful to our Father and God, for he has greatly blessed us, and up to date not one person has died. There are only a few sick at present, none dangerously ill, and we all hope to live to see the peaceful vales of Utah, and join the Saints there.
Although rocking on the ocean, we have had our pleasures and enjoyments; our meetings, held every Sunday, have been very interesting, and the instructions given have been to the point and beneficial to all. Some of the brethren (returning missionaries) have been rather unwell. Brother C. P. Liston has had an unpleasant time for two weeks past, but he feels a little better now. Brothers Burridge, Spencer, and myself, have stood it [p.571] the best thus far. We have had a good wind for a day or two until 10 a.m. to-day, since which we are moving very slowly.
Ever praying God to bless you and all the faithful, and with best respects to all in the office, I remain your brother in the gospel. . . . [p.572]
J. S. Horne
BIB: Horne, Joseph S. [Smith], [Letter], Latter-day Saints’ Millennial Star 30:36 (September 5, 1858) pp. 570-72. (HDL)
Journal of John Thomas Lazenby
I left Hull June 22nd after staying at my mother's, in company with Walter [Lazenby] and Annie Tether (who became my wife), Sister Tomlinson and her family, for Liverpool. A company of Saints joining us on the steamer to cross the River Humber to New Holland. Brother John Leak and his family, Robert J. William and two daughters, Brother Busly, Elder Hide came along. Stayed in Liverpool at the house of Mrs. Ramsden. Monday night and embarked on board the ship Constitution in the Bramley Moore Dock with a company of about 400 Saints, some Welsh, some Scotch, some Swiss, and English under the presidency of W. Cluff [H. H. Cluff], [G. B.] Spencer, [J. S.] Thorne and others and hauled into the River Mersey on Tuesday and towed down the river on Wednesday, 24th of June, 1868. After a six weeks voyage “to a day” we arrived and dropped anchor in the River Hudson. Our voyage across the Atlantic was very pleasant to me, only one rough day, on Sunday when about half way across. [UNCLEAR] Arrived safe and well with Walter and Annie Tether. Landed at Castle Garden after passing a doctor's examination on the River Hudson. [p.3] Came on the cars on the Hudson River Railroad to Albany, then crossed to the Canada side where we were put into cattle trucks and jolted to Victoria when we were crossed again over the river to Detroit. Came on to Chicago, thence to Omaha where we crossed the Missouri River and took the Union Pacific cars for the west. After an overland voyage of ten days we reached the North Platte River where we camped for seven or eight days waiting for our baggage. . . . [p.4]
. . . Arrived at the head of Echo Canyon on the September 14th, ‘68, and here I bid adieu to my wife and boy and went to work for John W. Young upon the railroad, which I had agreed to do on arriving at New York for which I received a free pass from Omaha to the end of the track. I received 2 dollars and ½ per day and board. Stayed at work six weeks and then came on to Salt Lake City. . . . [p.5]
BIB: Lazenby, John Thomas. Journal (Ms 6043), pp. 3-5. (HDA)