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The Place-Dejection to Triumph

THE HEAVY CLOUD of depression that settled on the spirits of these valiant colonists when they inspected the new townsite seemed impossible to disperse. That this narrow, rocky valley, little more than a river bed, should be regarded as "the place prepared" for them was too much for their imagination. Thus depressed they gloomily bowed their heads at the first gathering to join in a prayer of dedication by Moses Thatcher.

But with the first words of the prayer pulses quickened-something stirred within them as they heard that low pleading voice lay their problems before their Maker and ask for strength and wisdom to solve them. As Apostle Thatcher's fervency warmed and details of their problems were laid bare, it seemed that a conversation was taking place, that the quiet firm voice was speaking to a divine parent. Their spirits were lifted and a new vision opened before them. The "Amen" was chorused and they looked out on a changed world. Problems somehow seemed vastly shrunken; barriers seemed but challenges which if taken one by one could be hurdled and be the means of gaining additional strength.

With new eyes they studied the surveyor's map, knowing that what appeared as a spacious townsite included hills, river, and all-that streets running at right angles, level, long, and properly named on paper, in reality ran up and down an uneven valley, over the hills and through the river. Still, as a blueprint it gave hope and each could picture himself in relation to his neighbors.

"On this point," they said, locating a block reserved on a high spot, "we will build our church and schoolhouse, where from every part of town, eyes can be lifted to the learning and uplift it will symbolize. Here, will be the hotel, there the co-op store. The public square will front the natural depression on the river bank where a park can easily be made. Well placed terraces will control flood waters, we will fill in the ugly washes, and build the stones into foundations and rock walls. Trees massed and strategically placed will provide windbreaks and add beauty; sand banks can be leveled and fertilized. "What's more, they exulted, looking into each other's faces, "it's ours. It's permanent, for no one will want it badly enough to push us off. On it we'll build a society with management in our own hands. None will buy, sell, or trade except by permission from those in charge. Nor may one become unworthy and retain rights and standing in the community. The brotherhood we'll build will be founded on honesty and proper regard for the rights of others. Joy and happiness, the natural outgrowth of righteous living, will be a goal toward which all will strive."

"One word more," added Elder Thatcher as they prepared to disperse, "as long as saloons are banned, and profanity kept off the streets, this spot will remain a place of refuge for all who need it."

Building sites had been drawn by lot and with the map in hand, families were moved one and two at a time from the Old Town, each to the spot it had drawn.