1890-09-17-Wisconsin

Letter from John U. Stucki - September 19, 1890

Stucki, John U., et al., [Letter], Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star 52:42, (Oct. 20, 1890) pp. 667-68.

S. S. "Roanoke," Sept. 19, 1890

President George Teasdale.

Dear Brother,--

At Queenstown we mailed you a short note of our trip to that port. After remaining there about an hour, we again resumed our journey westward, everything appearing bright and lovely. During the entire voyage we had beautiful weather, only a few showers of short duration, and on the whole we had a remarkably favorable passage across the ocean. We passed Staten or Quarantine Island about 5 p.m. on Tuesday, and landed at the pier at 7:15, where our genial friend Mr. Gibson soon appeared, giving us a friendly greeting.

On Wednesday a heavy rain caused some delay in the unshipping of our baggage; however, it was all accomplished about 12 noon, as well as the examination made by the custom house officers. We were then transferred to the Barge Office, where the steerage passengers passed the inspection officers. A complaint had been made by two passengers from the Wisconsin, that we had a number of girls who were being persuaded against their will to go to Utah; rather a singular charge, but anything, no matter how ridiculous, seems to be acceptable when applied to the "Mormons". As might have been expected, the complainants did not substantiate their ridiculous charges, still their object was partially accomplished, which was to cause us annoyance and detention.

The "Evening Sun" of Wednesday, Sept. 17th, contains the following:

A BATCH OF MORMONS Seventy Mormons arrived today in the steerage of the Wisconsin. The barge officers understand that they are under contract, and will detain them. It is also understood that among the Mormons are a number of young girls who are traveling among them against their wills."

These things caused an unusual close examination and delay, but as nothing could be elicited to warrant further action, they had to be passed. Through these proceedings we missed Wednesday's steamer, and were obliged to lay over until Thursday, the 18th.

Mr. Wiley, who represented Mr. Tenbroeck, and also Mr. Prindle, agent for the Virginia, Tennessee [p.667] and Georgia Air Line, met us on Wednesday morning, and rendered us every assistance possible. Captain Worral of the Wisconsin, Mr. Edwards the purser, and the chief steward, treated us with marked kindness and consideration, and from the others we received all the attention which could be expected under the circumstances, as the steamer was very crowded.

We are very thankful to our Heavenly Father for the many blessings received thus far, and feel to trust in him for our safe arrival in the land of his choice.

Ever praying that success may attend you, and the Spirit of God be your constant guide and companion, we remain your brethren,

J. [John] U. Stucki,

A. Budge,

C. Meyer.