Item Detail
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17470
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0
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0
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English
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Diary
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Mormon Diaries, Journals, and Life Sketches (Transcriptions) [Microfilm]
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Washington, D.C.
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Library of Congress
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Reel 3, Item 2
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September 15, 1852 to April 20, 1854. Empey receives a mission call to Europe. He crosses the Great Plains, noting the distance traveled, weather, place camped, encounters with Indians, and trail sermons by Parley P. Pratt and Orson Spencer. He travels by boat to New York, discussing religion with some Shakers. Empey sails from New York to Liverpool, England surviving sea-sickness and a severe gale. He notes the gale's move ashore, and the Duke of Wellington Flood that follows. Empey moves to Preston, where he lodges with Joseph Young. Authorized to announce the doctrine of plural marriage, he records the reaction of Saints, as well as common misconceptions. He also goes tracting, holds public meetings, and baptizes and re-baptizes members. Empey is transferred to Manchester, where the branch president has absconded with his girlfriend, causing the Church much embarrassment. Empey focuses on re-activating lapsed and former members, believing it to be his mission from God. Returning to Preston, he writes about the plight of women in the textile mills, and the Preston Lock-out. He takes special notice of the sporadic violence, suffering, hunger, and rise in prostitution that accompany the Lock-out. Empey is called to lead an immigrant company across the Plains and leaves England. Back in the States, he is unable to exchange his sovereigns for dollars, delaying his travel. Empey journeys to St. Louis, Missouri where he buys cattle and oxen for the company. He greets recently arrived Saints, securing their lodging and passage to Iowa. Many of the Saints are suffering from cholera, and he spends much time arranging for burials. The journal ends with the cholera outbreak worsening and Empey's prayer for relief.