Mary Jane Hogensen Swensen

By Iris Swensen Hancock

Copy from the Estate of Paul Lorenzo Swensen (1921-2004)

Kristen Haagensen, later known in the United States as Christian Hogensen, was born 6 Feb. 1830 at Lier, Buskerud, Norway. He lived on a small farm, assisting in the maintenance of the home, by this course raising a little grain, hay, cattle and whatever was required to live. He remained here until grown to manhood, when he went to Drammen for employment to set up his own independence. He worked in a Mercantile Business.

To parallel this life, Karen Petra Larsen was born 20 Dec., 1830 at Lier, Buskerud, Norway. Her father died when she was very young. He was injured while working in the timber. A fractured leg was attended by the country doctor but resulted in a prolonged illness resulting in dropsy which led to his death. Prior to his illness they were comfortably situated, but the little savings diminished to pay for doctor services; in fact to make final payment, the doctor took their only cow. They were now in very dire circumstances. The mother was left to provide for herself and the children; Anne Mare, Nils and Karen Petra. Wages were low which necessitated the children also seeking employment in their young years. Petra, as she was called, at the age of nine years worked as a little nurse maid in a farm home. She also did many of the light chores. As she became older she obtained positions in larger homes, increasing her experience in this line. Certain school requirements were made. She fulfilled these in the country and graduated.

Her employment was then in one of the wealthy homes of the city of Drammen, as a cook, assisting also with some of the other household duties such as ironing and caring for the children's clothes, keeping them in repair. She seemed well liked by her employer, and favored. She was always with them on their summer vacations to their lovely summer home in the country. During the year 1858 she attended a meeting in Drammen and heard the Mormon Elders preach their doctrine, which appealed to her and which she readily accepted as the truth and was baptized. At these same meetings was Christian Hogensen who also accepted these valuable teachings of the Gospel.

At this time the people were so bitterly opposed to the Mormons that Petra's mistress thought it would not be wise to keep her in their employ, but the husband of the mistress could not see why it should make any difference as she was so efficient in her line of work and it would be difficult to replace her. She was so very dependable. This problem was taken to the minister. He advised them to keep close watch that she was not influencing the other servants who were several in number. If others were influenced in the least, Petra should be discharged.

The Elder, Olaf Larsen, who baptized these converts was imprisoned and his food consisted of water and dry bread for weeks; but this did not stop the work or have any ill effect in that way, as there continued to be converts.

The urge to be in Zion with the Saints was evident, for in the spring of 1859 a group of converts planned emigration to Zion. How Petra longed to be one of them, but she did not have the required money for passage on the boat. Here was an opportunity for Christian. Being a thrifty young man, he had saved more than enough for his fare and offered to loan her what she needed. He may have had other presumptions of something more than just a loan. Petra was a fine person. She was happy for the offer to go to Zion and quickly accepted his kindness.

This is what the shipping record shows:
Amount Passage Handcart Exchange
CHRISTIAN HOGENSEN $277.00 $154.00 $36.00 166/2/6
KAREN PETRA LARSEN 69.00

Foreign Coin Total
82 ½ $346.00 /2/6

They left their beloved homes, families and friends, likely never to see them again and joined other converts setting sail for Zion, with many more converts from Scandinavia, Switzerland and England; making a large company. During the sea voyage a romance developed between Christian and Petra. No doubt they could better approach this new life together, each helping the other. Of course the fact was, in Norway, a Mormon could not obtain license for marriage. They were married on board the ship "William Tapscott" by Elder Robert P. Neslen, the Elder in charge of the company. That was apparently Christian's remuneration for the loan of money.

From New York City to St. Joseph, Missouri was by train and then they travelled by steam boat up the Missouri river to Florence, Nebraska. The trip by train in those days was not much better than the cattle cars of today. The journey from there to Zion was by hand cart; leaving from Florence, Nebraska on June 9th, 1859. 235 souls, 60 handcarts and 9 wagons arrived in Salt Lake City on September 4, 1859. The usual experiences of such a company was theirs. The journey was not too severe although at times rations were very low. Christian and Petra resided in Salt Lake City the first year. He worked in the canyon for Perry Becker, while Petra hired out in homes, doing washings, or remained at home crocheting, knitting or any other work obtainable to help earn the necessities of life. She even braided straw hats, one of which was for Brigham Young. While in Salt Lake City they had the privilege of receiving their Temple Endowments, in the Endowment House, 22 August 1860. They had not yet learned the English language. President Young placed his hands upon Petra's head and said, "You shall be able to understand all that is said," which she did--a blessing very much appreciated, for she said it was as plain as if spoken in her own language.

The following year, 1861, inasmuch as many of their friends had moved to Logan, Utah, they also chose to go there to locate. Here their first child, a daughter, Caroline was born, 26 July, 1861.

In the summer of 1863 they received a call to join a company and help settle Bear Lake Valley, seventy miles distant, through the mountains. They arrived in what is now known as Paris, Idaho, the first day of November, having traveled by way of ox team and wagon. They scarcely had time to get a dug-out built--this was no more than a hole in the ground or hillside with a roof over it--by the time the second child arrived on November 9th. She was daughter Agnes, the first white baby girl born in Bear Lake Valley.

Early the next spring this company scattered in various directions, located in different sections of the valley. Christian and his little family crossed the valley to the east, crossing the river by ferry boat which they constructed. Location was made and was called Clover Creek but it was later named Montpelier by Brigham Young, named from Montpelier in his home state, Vermont. Robert Williams was the first appointed presiding Elder of this group and later was succeeded by John Cozzens. Because of the congeniality, friendliness and diligence, these people became a thriving, happy community, growing and prospering by their own diligence and faith in the Gospel, for which they were sacrificing much but were equally rewarded.

December 9, 1966 marked an important date in this family for another daughter came to bless this home by the kind assistance of Violet Dabell, a kind neighbor who never before had given such aid. Hence Mary Jane was from then on called "My Girl" by sister Dabell, who continued in assisting the women of this community as mid-wife and she became very efficient and much appreciated. A few days after the birth of Mary Jane, David Osborne was called in to give her a name and a blessing, for she was slightly ailing and should anything happen, this baby should not be without a name.

As the pendulum reached its full swing to happiness, so the following week it swung to quite the opposite motion, for on December 16th, sadness came to this home, for the oldest daughter, Caroline, was taken from them in sickness, pneumonia being the claimer. Winter was severe, the cold being so intense as to freeze the wheat and necessitated flour being obtained from Cache Valley in Utah. Sometimes they used flour from the frozen wheat but it was sticky and unsatisfactory.

The little home consisted of a single-room log house with a fireplace in the south end, which heated the place and in which all cooking was done. The floor was of wide-board, rough lumber but always scrubbed white and smooth with a scrubbing brush made of small birch twigs tied tightly together. The walls were whitewashed often. The dirt roof was more substantial than most of the neighbor's roofs, as it offered thorough protection from the weather. Many of the roofs leaked terribly, which of course caused much discomfort as well as annoyance, but they were more or less taken for granted because of prevailing conditions and because there was little better to be had. White muslin curtains with dainty crocheted edges adorned the windows. The furniture consisted of a hand-made turned-post bedstead, high enough to accommodate the trundle bed which was hidden underneath by a white muslin ruffle neatly adorning the large bed. Table and chairs were also of home construction. In this humble dwelling, Mary Jane had her first few years and she grew as any normal child in happy circumstances should grow and develop.

About 1868 this family moved to Richmond, Utah. Mother Hogensen felt that she liked it better. August 12, 1869 a little boy finally made this home happier. Charles Henry was his name. They settled on property they owned. Petra wanted to continue there but Christian said, "No." He had been especially called to assist in settling the Bear Lake Valley and that he must do so as planned. The property was sold and they returned to their home in Montpelier.

When in Richmond, Mary Jane was about three years of age. The Indians came almost every day asking for food. Mother Hogensen always gave them bread and butter or any little thing they happened to have. This day Father Hogensen had given them some special thing. To show their appreciation the whole group came to the house, serenading and dancing in the front yard in their Indian fashion.

One Sunday, (after they moved back to Montpelier) upon returning from church, the air was full of grasshoppers. When they entered the house, they found it full of grasshoppers which had come down the large chimney. They were on everything and had even eaten holes in their pretty curtains.

Father Hogensen had one mule and being true to type, it liked to kick. A cousin of Petra's, Martha Carlsen and her son John, who had recently emigrated were living at the Hogensen home. This young lad, although Mary Jane was only five, dared her to run under the mule. This little girl was a daring person and was not to be outdone by a newcomer in her own habitation. She did as she was told. Just at that appropriated moment, Father Hogensen came upon the scene and what a scolding that boy received.

At this age Mary Jane saw President Brigham Young the last time President Young visited Bear Lake Valley. It was at conference time in Paris. People were so excited and eager to see him as he passed through the various small towns. He came from Soda Springs to Montpelier. Here the children were gathered on the roadside to greet him as he went through town. What excitement! He took off his hat to the children and bowed graciously, which delighted the onlookers. He was such a wonderful man to all. The following day the family attended conference in Paris, in the bowery made of willows and brush. How thrilled Mary Jane was as she stood by her mother and Petra said, "Now there comes President Young." He walked down the isle carrying his white straw hat.

Just prior to Mary Jane's seventh birthday, she began her school life with a Mrs. Horace, who lived near to the Hogensen home for a while. Schools at that time were only for a few winter months and little was taught. The names of the letters was about all that was taught the little ones and only reading and spelling were given those up to twelve years. For older students classes in geography, arithmetic and grammar were given. Teachers were quite incapable. Anyone who would consent to accept the task was given the job.

The little log, one-room church was the school house also. It was nothing of much adornment inside or out, with its dirt roof, board floor, little windows and box stove. Religious services were a big part of their life and Sunday was devoted to worship in the form of Sunday School, which was divided by ages and the teacher would select the subject matter as she desired. They were not so fortunate to have wonderfully prepared religious education by leaflet and commentary books. In this Hogensen family, all attended Sacrament Services, which made for them a firm foundation of the Gospel which would be a ballast for their entire lives. The monthly fast meeting on the first Thursday of each month, at 10:00 o'clock in the morning was attended also, where each as they may desire gave voice to their faith and testimony of the value of the great Plan of Salvation in his or her life. Thursday afternoon, the ladies met in their Relief Society organization to carry out their responsibilities.

At the early age of six, Mary Jane was taught to do many things, in as much as many of the necessities of life were produced by the hands in the home. Aunt Martha Carlsen, Petra's cousin, taught Mary Jane to knit and her first accomplishments were garters which consisted of straight bands which fit snugly to hold up the knee-length stockings. At an early age, sewing too was taught and this was learned by sewing carpet rags, for the woven carpet of the day was an exceptional thing. Quilt blocks were then a good practice for better work and progress. Mary Jane received here home schooling in these things.

The lighting for dark nights was the tallow candle which Mary Jane soon learned to make. Molds were obtained in which the wicking, purchased in balls, was twisted and strung through the mold, which consisted of six tubes set in a frame. The end of the twine was brought from the point end of the mold and held in place firmly with a stick. Since it was the hardest of tallows, beef tallow was melted and poured into the mold. The tightly drawn wick held in the center then was surrounded by this hot tallow which, when cold, completed the process. The knot was cut at the outside small end and the candle could be pulled from the mold. The full supply was made in the winter, as success could be obtained only by having the candle harden in cold weather. Summertime was too warm to produce the better candle.

Mother Petra was always very systematic in her work, planning it well ahead of time, always preparing for the future time. Christian was also very adept in his work, having it done ahead of time rather than the last minute or late. This fine quality was expedient to comfortable living and instilling into children good methods of preservation and economy.

By the time Mary Jane was eight years of age, she was knitting her own stockings. Mother Hogensen spun the yarn for her on the big spinning wheel and helped shape the heels, which was a little difficult for small fingers. Home knit stockings and socks were all that were available. By twelve years of age, Mary J. learned to spin yarn. At first she found it quite a trick to measure the size of the roll and length of yarn it would take to have it consistent in thickness. Her first was very uneven and unfit for anything but to knit heavy socks for father to wear inside his big boots. But improvement came to the extent that she spun all of the yarn in the home. Sister Agnes was more apt at sewing and was happy to do most of that work.

On Mary Jane's eighth birthday, as she awakened, Agnes said to her, "what would you rather have, a doll or a dozen eggs?" Goodness! If she could just have a dozen eggs to take to the store and buy what she wanted! Such a thing as a doll was impossible. So Agnes teased, "alright then, I'll take the doll and you can have the eggs." Agnes brought forth the doll which she had hidden in the bed. That did away with the eggs. Mary J. had never seen such a beautiful thing. It was like a real live person to her. A beautiful china head--it was beyond all expectation--the lovely pink dress was most charming. This was her first doll. Father had purchased this china head when in Evanston, Wyoming. Mother had worked nights, after Mary J. was asleep, making body and clothes.

Christmas time was excitement. Special for this occasion, curtains were washed, walls whitewashed. It was not elaborate in any sense. One little gift and a little candy was the extent. But what a good time they had and how happy with this little unusualness. During the trip to Salt Lake City for the fall conference, these few little gifts would be purchased and hidden away until Christmas time. Once the gift for Mary J. was a little set of dishes, the first she had ever seen. The little cups were only as big as the end of a finger. Chicken was served on this special day. There were yule cakes, doughnuts, bockles or crullers. There were no Christmas Trees, even though they could have had choice trees right near. There was an apple each. These were brought from Salt Lake in the fall and buried in the wheat bin upstairs. In later years, peddlers began bringing in produce and as the railroad soon came, more of these things were obtainable and it was good to have more than just one Christmas apple.

Mary Jane was anxious to become an official member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, at the specified age of eight years but since her birthday came in December, there was no place to perform this ordinance and she must wait until warmer days. Spring came, then summer and finally a day was set; August 29, 1875 was specified and the family attended Sunday School and Sacrament meeting as usual, one following immediately after the other. Shortly after the service, a large group gathered at the bank of the Montpelier creek, at the corner of what is now Washington and 4th streets. Sister Calvin Bingham lived in a little house on the corner which was a residence until 1947. In this house preparations were made for the important event. All participants then gathered on the creek bank. Brother John Bunny officiated and each in turn were taken into the water, just as Christ had given the example. Mary Jane, being very eager to have this ordinance performed, was ready for her turn. That morning she had a toothache and mother Hogensen thought it best to wait but that was certainly not in accord with the will of Mary Jane and after the ordinance was performed she had no more toothache. The baptism was only the outward show of acceptance of the Gospel. When all were again dressed and in proper order and assembled in this little home, confirmation was made. Hands of those holding the Holy Melchizedek Priesthood were laid upon those who had been baptized and the Holy Ghost was conferred upon them as a guide if they were diligent and faithful. Charles H. Bridges, Sr. was the Elder confirming Mary Jane. She was very happy this day to become a member of the Church.

Mary Jane grew also in her daring personality, for by now she was a qualified granary ridge-pole walker. There was nothing of consequence she failed to attempt. But she could also be sufficiently sedate to attend a wedding. Mother Hogensen seemed to be the woman from whom all sought advice. About this time a young girl had recently come from Sweden. To Mary Jane, she was the most beautiful girl she had seen--brown eyes and hair which accentuated the lovely fairness of her skin. Joel Hoff took a distinct liking to this girl but neither could speak or understand the other's language. Nevertheless, they had their courtship and were happily married in the Hogensen home. Mary Jane was in attendance. After the ceremony by Brother Osborne, Mother Hogensen prepared a nice meal and invited all the neighbors.

People were so friendly in those days and so often would come in for an evening. Grandfather Osborne, David's father, one winter stayed with this son and how Mary Jane loved to have him come for these evening visits, as he had known the Prophet Joseph Smith very well, having lived and associated so closely with him. He would tell so interestingly these early-day experiences with the prophet.

Continually Mary Jane did her part in assisting in the household duties of caring for the home. One responsibility was to care for the calves. In the morning they were turned out of the corral, from which they could wander over the hills, feeding on the grass which plentifully covered them. In the late afternoon, before the cows came home, it was expected the children would have gone back into the hills and brought back the calves. Mary Jane was always in dread fear that she would meet an Indian, for as soon as warm weather came, they would come in large bands and camp along the creek which ran back of the home; usually the camp was toward the canyon. They never did damage or molest the people but it seemed to be their nature to pick up little things and keep them. One day an Indian lady came to the home with a piece of calico, about enough to make a dress, and wanted mother to buy it. Mother Hogensen knew she had stolen it but she bought it for a small compensation of money or food, as the Indian lady asked. Mother inquired about among the people finding that it belonged to one of the ladies several blocks away. This woman had made purchase of the material and taken it home, laying it on the table. She had left the house for just a short time, of course doors were not locked, and when she returned the material was gone. She had felt very badly about this loss but was very happy to have her new dress material returned to her intact.

Each fall father and mother went to October conference in Salt Lake City. This was their opportunity to restock household necessities. Their trip always required at least two weeks, as it took four and a half to five days to make the trip one way with the horse-team and covered wagon which had no springs but the seat was set on with springs which made riding quite comfortable, comparatively. Their return trip was anxiously awaited by those at home, for it meant new materials for dresses, a supply of brown and white sugar, dried fruits and some special treat which would be saved for Christmas.

One return trip in these early years, Mary Jane and Agnes had a special treat. Father had bought a grand thing. Carefully it was unpacked and cleaned, a marble-like base, and upright glass stand upon which rested a bowl into which was put kerosene and into this kerosene dipped a woven cotton wick, of about three-fourths inch width. This was lighted and a glass chimney set over it and what a beautiful bright light it gave--a truly lovely thing--new and exciting. It was so much better than the candle and a rare and special thing to possess.

Because of Mary Jane's diligence in the Church and her now being thirteen years, she could begin to assume responsibilities in religious affairs. Stake authorities from Paris came to organize the Primary and young Women's Mutual Improvement Associations and to reorganize the Relief Society. At this time, Mary Jane was sustained as treasurer of the Primary--April 30, 1879. She enjoyed this bit of responsibility. The Saints worked diligently in the Church and such appointments were of importance to them and assumed with dignity, humility and seriousness. Mother Hogensen was appointed president of the Relief Society, replacing Sister Sarah Phelps, wife of Morris Phelps, who were called to go to Arizona. This office required all the sewing of burial clothes and caring for the dead properly. Such a thing as an undertaker was unknown and the arts and conveniences of such were unknown in the community. Brother Charles Bridges assisted greatly in this work by caring for the menfolk who passed away. Many nights and days were given to caring for the sick. It was also necessary for various reason to attend to the dead continually day and night. There were many other responsibilities of the Relief Society, as the name implies.

No prepared lesson outlines or meeting schedules were available, as in later years; hence it required their own efforts to prepare outlines and programs. Many of the meetings were given to testimony bearing.

On one occasion, during harvest time, Mother Hogensen had Relief Society obligations to fulfill so she left Mary Jane to make preparations for the noon meal, expecting to be back in time to make the biscuits. Mary Jane felt assured of the meat, potatoes, etc, but not biscuits. She had never made them. Time passed and mother did not come. Eleven-thirty came and Mary knew that the meal must be ready on time and the biscuits must be made. There was not choice--to get busy--she did, but worried fearing they would not be edible. Her integrity and effort counted for something and her first batch of biscuits were a success and not those of the usual jocular story.

When Mary Jane was but thirteen and a half, Father received a call to fulfill a mission to Norway. He was the first missionary called from Montpelier. Father was always an excellent financier and manager and his affairs were in fine shape. He was in good circumstances and was able to care for his family and himself without financial sacrifice. But the past winter had been severe and he had lost many cattle; in fact, the morning he left, several had starved to death there in the yard on account of short feed, due to a very long winter. The hired men cared for the farm during the twenty-seven months absence. The family missed him very much but could easily sacrifice their husband and father to have the wonderful message of the Gospel taken to others in their native land, where they had been give the opportunity and privilege of hearing it.

After a little over a year of his absence, an epidemic of diphtheria swept the country. The most terrible that ever struck and even more drastic because of no doctors, no understanding of the disease and no control of it. Many homes were left almost desolate; some families buried as many as four children within two weeks. The Hogensen home did not escape. About the latter part of June, Mary Jane became a victim of this dread disease. She was at death's door for about two weeks and no one expected any recovery. July 24th, this was 1881, sadness came to this little home; the youngest child of the family, Lorenzo, who had been born to this household December 26, 1875, also contracted the disease and within a week was taken from this world. There were no services permitted for this dear one. Mother hogensen and Brother Bridges cared for and laid away this little lifeless body.

For weeks Mary Jane lay almost helpless; then more weeks passed in which she could not walk but would stagger and fall. Her legs were so weak. Neither could she talk for many weeks. However recovery came very slowly and in due time health was restored with no ill effect except a little deficiency of the throat. The pallet was almost entirely destroyed and she easily choked but it was nothing to impair her future health in dutifully and beautifully filling her life's mission. By fall she was able to be about and she attended the usual winter school.

Thomas B. McCan, patriarch of the Bear Lake Stake came to the home and gave to Mary Jane a Patriarchal Blessing. Therein he made some very important statements and gave her great promises. The spirit of the Lord should rest upon her and show her things past, present and future. She should grow in grace and trust and would be able to comprehend the ways of the Lord. She should assist in the work for the dead in the temples. The blessing of health should rest upon her that she should endure. The gift of prophesy and revelation should rest upon her and she should be wise and council with the daughters of Eve. She was to visit the sisters when sick, having faith to bless them and with their faith to receive it they would be healed for it was a gift only needing to be developed. In due time a companion congenial to her mind should be hers and she should fill the mission assigned to her coming to the earth--and raise up sons and daughters that would be an honor to her for she would teach them the ways of the Lord and they would bless her because of her attention and good instructions for by the spirit of the Lord she would be enabled to train the children in the way they should go and the principles taught them would be enduring. She would see the signs of the coming of the Redeemer, and distress of nations and hear of it with great perplexity, the heavens filled with error and dismay and men's hearts failing them for fear of that coming to the earth. "Thou shalt see the salvation of the Lord and the Saints delivered and their enemies confounded."

By July of the next year, 1882, there was great excitement and expectation in this family circle. Father was soon to come home to America. As there was no railway yet into the valley, great plans were made to meet him in Ogden, Utah. Charles R. Pearce, employed by Father Hogensen, took Mother and Mary Jane in a covered spring wagon, which had been purchased some four years previous. Agnes and Charles remained at home to assist in caring for the home and farm. Mary could go to meet Father! This was the first trip since her baby days that she was going out of Bear Lake Valley.

Starting was early the morn of July 1st, 1882. Two other wagons were in the company and when the days travels were to their extent, a camp was made where supper was prepared over the cheery camp fire and there was much enjoyment. The other girl, Mary Cederland, a little younger than Mary Jane was in the group. They were good company for one another. Bedding down was a simple matter. Since a load of wool was being taken to market, Mother made a bed on the wool bags. Mary Jane had her nook in the front the of wagon box and Charles slept on the ground, as did the other men.

The late evening of July 3rd, brought them to their destination. The immigrant train had not arrived so there were a few days more of anxiety. The wool was sold and the wagon left in the yard of Wm. Pearce, uncle to Charles. These good people insisted that in their home, meals would be prepared for these three travelers. Mother Hogensen and Mary Jane had a good bed in the wagon box for night time. They visited about and enjoyed the city which was small--to Mary Jane it seemed quite a sizeable one. Sunday was their time to attend church services where it was announced the time of arrival of the train. In good time they were at the station counting off the minutes. This was the first Mary Jane had seen a train. But the most important thing was that it brought her father, whom they were extremely happy to greet after so long a time away from them. The following day Father Hogensen boarded the immigrant train for Logan as it was his responsibility of caring for these people to their destination--that is those who had not remained in Ogden, or traveled south to Salt Lake City. The family met him in Logan after having stopped at Mantua overnight. From Logan they proceeded homeward through the canyon. At this time the temple was just being constructed and only the frame work was erected. One of the workmen asked Mary Jane if she would like to go up to the top and view the surroundings. In child-like glee she readily ascended and up the ladder she went to the top, as usual unafraid. She could see far over all the valley. The hill about the temple was then a barren rocky ground with the usual sage brush covering over the whole.

Father had an interesting story to tell them. When he had arrived in Norway, he went to greet a sister. Ingaborg, a niece, who was a grown young lady of about eighteen years, went out of the room for he was a Mormon and she was afraid of Mormons. When his mission was completed, he again went to his sister to bid her goodbye and Ingaborg was there. She had seen him several times but still harbored that dread of Mormons. She watched Father Hogensen shake his sister's hand and heard him bear testimony of the truthfulness of the gospel. Ingaborg said how it went through her and she felt such a thrill and received there for herself a testimony of its truthfulness. She immediately began attending the gatherings of the Latter-day Saints and soon joined their group as a member.

The happy family with a supply of bolts of cloth and unbleached muslin, dress prints and a few little things, as well as some food supplies, were on their way home. But their numbers were increasing, for Father had hired two of the young men immigrants from Norway. One was Ole Swensen, to whom Father had brought the precious gospel message; the other was Joseph Josephsen. Father had offered to pay Ole's ticket, give him a good home and board, also clothing, if he would work one year for him. He later worked three more years for hire. This little party arrived home Thursday afternoon, to greet those anxious waiters at home. Travelers were not common so any such were greeted as they passed along, by those who saw them coming. Grandpa (John) and grandma (Ann) Bunny were on hand to do their part. The trip was over, father home and everyone settled down to the routine of a normal home life.

Small Pox became evident in this community and before knowing what it was, many were exposed. Dr. Hoover offered to vaccinate free of charge and he went from home to home and did that service. Mary Jane was among those who were vaccinated at this time. When her vaccination was at a climax, her sister Agnes, who lived in Wardboro, and not having access to this early service, was vaccinated by scratching with a hot needle Mary Jane's vaccination and transferring the substance to Agnes's arm. Neither of them at any time in their lives took the disease, though in later years they nursed many cases of it.

About six months of winter time was a school-time and the subjects taught even now were only reading, writing, arithmetic, geography and grammar. There was but one teacher for the little group of about 50 students, ranging in age from six to eighteen, with no law of compulsion. A student was left much to his or her desires and those of the parents. School was still in the log church house. But this building was a replacement of the early one and was more accommodating and better for size, a shingle roof and generally more conducive to progress. The teachers were usually men and seemed to change each year. When Mary Jane was sixteen and had completed all the books in the school, so did not go further, although she felt she could learn more of geography, grammar and such subjects. Alvirus Snow, then the teacher, tried to convince father to send her to Provo to receive instructions to be a teacher. But to send her to Provo alone was a terrible thought. However, her time was fully occupied with the required tasks of home, for there was much to do. Spinning, knitting, cooking, cleaning, rags prepared for weaving, all had to be done. After the coming of the railroad in 1882, shipping facilities lightened household duties, since the spinning wheel became almost idle because yarn could be purchased. It saved much time and effort in spinning and also dying the wool, if other than the natural color of the wool was desired.

Harvest time, when grain was to be thrashed, meant added work for there would be eighteen to twenty men for whom to prepare big meals--dinner and supper each day for usually three days time. Father Hogensen owned the first self-binder in Montpelier. This machine was a great asset, as previously it took one man to drive the reaper which cut the grain and five men to bind it into bundles, while the self-binder required only one man to drive. In both cases the young folk were kept busy, as they were required to shock the grain. Mary Jane was among these and her hands were then so sore from handling the dry, stiff shocks. There were no gloves. But it was just assumed as a part of their work in their younger years. In all things Father Hogensen was always ahead with his work and planned in such a way that preparations were not last minute rushes but all was readiness for the job when it came due. Never a minute lost. Time was so precious and should be well used. There was also concern for his neighbors. He was extremely charitable. Very often did he load a bag of flour, five gallons of kerosene, some potatoes or the like to take to some one in need, but never did he talk of it. No one would ever know of his assistance to others but continually was he quietly assisting those who were without sustenance.

In the distant homeland was a poor widow, discouraged by the gradually increasing ill health due to tuberculosis. She became so seriously affected to the state, that death was inevitable and she was unable to care for her family. Her worry was their being cared for. This woman became a member of the Church when Christian Hogensen had labored there. She went to the President of the mission with her problem and pleaded that if President Hogensen would take her boy, she could die in peace. The President wrote to Father Hogensen who looked at the matter squarely. He knew that caring for the boy would be greatly the responsibility of his wife who was already well occupied with her own family, so he left the decision with her. He was willing to give the support. Petra, in her usual kindness and consideration said, "Yes." Hence, the money was immediately sent for emigration. The dear woman (Josephine Olsen) died very soon after she received the message of acceptance. She died 4 Feb. 1884. So with the group of emigrants who left Norway in June of 1884, came this nine year old boy who was Alfred Julius Olsen, but who was taken to the House of the Lord in Logan, Utah and sealed to Christian Hogensen and his mother, for time and all eternity. This was 1 July 1887. He became a true son and brother in this family, as if he were their own blood relation. Great was the endless appreciate of this lad for what was being done for him.

At eighteen, the year 1884, Mary Jane was requested to be the secretary of the YWMIA. This organization too had to prepare their own lesson outlines and make their own programs. No doubt they would have been thoroughly amazed to know what the future programs and accomplishments would be for those who would participate in this and other auxiliaries of the Church. She was also carrying the responsibility of teacher in Sunday School--a group of five to eight girls, about twelve and thirteen years of age.

Social life was almost entirely within the bounds of the church and neighborhood. The coming of the railroad, in 1882, brought into the town usually people of little religious interest and sometimes rather undesirable in their social gatherings, inasmuch as their standards and ideals were not of the same caliber. It was recommended that the Saints not frequent the gatherings of those people. This almost divided the town into two separate units for some time. The saloon keeper had made the boast that they would drive the Mormons out. He went so far in his boast as to make selection of the Mormon home that would be his when confiscation was made of Mormon property.

In a few years of Father Hogensen's employing Ole Swensen, his living with the family and associating church offices, worship and social life, there grew between him and Mary Jane some companionship. However she seemed little concerned with men. She did go to dances with Ole, inasmuch as he lived there and was much like one of the family. Sometimes he had to do a bit of persuading but apparently he persuaded often enough. Ole wrote in his journal--"being now more than 25 years of age, I thought best to put a little attention about getting married; and having the consent and good will of Bro. Hogensen and wife, the father and mother of Mary Jane, and also her consent, we decided upon a trip to Logan, Cache County, Utah and had our endowments in the Logan Temple, as well as being married by Elder Marriner W. Merrill, On Oct. 21, 1886. This train trip was one day to McCammon, staying there over night and arriving in Logan the next day. They were unaccompanied and Temple workers were not too helpful but the tie was accomplished and they returned to Montpelier to make their home. During the first month they remained with father and mother while Ole built a little one room lumber house (about a block south of the present Ole Swensen home, 254 South 4th St.), on the two acre plot purchased from Charles R. Pearce, the husband of Mary Jane's sister Agnes. The furniture for this humble dwelling consisted of a bed, six chairs, a table, a cupboard, a cabinet flounced with a flowered curtain and with a mirror above it. This served as a dresser. There was a small range, with no water reservoir but they felt they were quite comfortably located and settled to homemaking.

A nice garden provided food for summer and winter time. The small root-cellar built the following summer was a good storage for all foods. Flower gardens were not neglected for they added the touch of artistry and culture to an abode. Starts of lilacs were taken from Hogensen's and produced fine bushes for adornment of the home.

In Ole's apprenticeship in Norway, he had learned much of painting and paper hanging as well as upholstering, so this was his trade, at which he began to labor to earn the living. He had studied the English language well prior to this time. With Ole and Mary Jane, the life of one was the life of the other. They had been so joined together under the power of the Priesthood in the House of the Lord and their days were congenial and happy. October 4, 1887 brought greater happiness to them for a darling baby boy was born to them and by request of the baby's grandmother, he was named Lorenzo, no doubt this was in fond love for her little Lorenzo who was taken in childhood, from her. The next year Mary J. was released as secretary of the YWMIA, a work she had performed well. At this time two small rooms were added to the home as there was need of more living room and storage for the small wheat crop they had harvested. One of the rooms was used as a granary. The next summer they raised a few potatoes beyond their own needs but could hardly dispose of them. The return was but twenty-five to thirty cents per hundred.

Their healthy, happy normal child was just two years old when on October 25th, 1889, a brother was born. The name given him was Clarence Odean. By this time, addition made to the one room structure was needed and they were comfortable situated with a kitchen, bedroom and living room, referred to as the "front room". Meals were set there especially when company came for dinner.

March 4, 1892 a baby girl, Miriam Janette, came to the home; a very beautiful child she was. But only for a short time did they enjoy her, for on the eighth of November 1892 pneumonia took its toll and this child was taken back to her spiritual home. It caused much sorrow to part with this baby girl but the plan of salvation as taught by the Gospel gave them assurances of a future family relationship and reuniting whereby they would yet have the privilege of raising this child, thus the burden of death lost its sting.

In the year of 1893, Mary Jane accepted the position of YWMIA president and chose as her counselors, Martha Cruikshank and Rose Hillier. At this time their oldest boy began school in the Washington School, just completed for use. The fall a year later brought a surprise. A letter from Salt Lake City asked Ole to respond to a call to fulfill a mission. Financial circumstances were not particularly considered a question in that day or the immediate answer would no doubt have been--"it is impossible." Ole did not see how he could accept this call, as surely they were not at all prosperous. Income had been about sufficient for immediate daily needs. If he could get enough, however, to pay his fare there, he surely could manage. He had about $75.00 coming on his father's estate, which he could obtain after his arrival there. It would leave Mary J. to do the best she could with the two little boys. She urged him to go promptly, if he were going at all, so the decision was settled. Two good paper hanging jobs, with which Mary Jane assisted, brought some income and the people gathered for a farewell for Ole and Charles, Mary Jane's brother who also had been called to Norway. So the offerings of these good people just about made enough to pay the fare. He was released as superintendent of the Sunday School, which position he had held since 1884. He was set apart Dec. 1, 1893 for his mission.

Holiday time came and with the father being gone, Mother Hogensen took this little family, for they were lonely, to their home for this festive season. About three days after Christmas, Clarence became very ill with pneumonia and was not expected to live. Sister Bridges, who served better than any town doctor, came to assist. She did not come in to tell what to do but took over and stayed as long as the case required. She doctored this child with hot baths, rubbing, plasters and whatever was known to do at that time. Brother Bridges and Brother Osborne, through the power of the Priesthood, administered to him, anointing with oil and laying on hands and calling upon the help of the Lord. Improvement came, but before he was well enough to be moved, Mother Hogensen took very ill. Mary Jane continued to stay and care for him, thus the greater part of the winter was in the Hogensen home. In the spring Mary Jane and her two boys moved back to their three-room home. Several weeks after this, Agnes, the sister, with her husband Charles, came in from Wardboro due to a severe cough he had contracted. They had no where to live in town so Mary Jane suggested the could, with a little fixing, use the granary, which was new and would make for comfortable living. Agnes had another plan. She didn't see why they couldn't use the bedroom of the home. Mary could move her range into the living room and use the kitchen as a bedroom and all could use the living room. There was not much Mary could say, as she was not the obstinate type of person; so the plan was carried out. Charles and Agnes moved in with three children and another expected soon. Mary Jane was also preparing for another arrival. This was quite a family for three rooms. They brought in a couple of milk cows so there was ample supply of milk, butter and cheese, as well as eggs, meat and garden produce.

A little girl, Irene, was born to the Pearce's July 27th and on August 5th a little girl to Mary Jane. She was named Edna Olena. Naturally the father in far away Norway was much concerned about home conditions and how everything would be. In a dream, it was made known to him that the baby girl had arrived and all was well. Mary Jane had not told him before he left for his mission that there was to be another child. She did not want him to have any worry at that time; but later she let him know of it. His dream gave him peace of mind for he had great faith in the working of our Father in Heaven. The incident was verified when word finally reached him of home happenings.

By fall Charles had built a two-room log home into which they moved and Mary had her home again, with her three children. From the produce of the four cows, there was a little income; calves were sold also--three nice yearling steers brought $21.00 and a cow and calf brought $17.00. She did a little plain sewing for hire and even helped about in homes. Every bit of extra cash was sent to Ole to sustain him in the work of the Lord. It was an immediate sacrifice but for an eternal blessing. All the work of caring for the stock was done by Mary herself, as was also the work of the garden. In the summer, John Stephens took some of the stock to Thomas Fork, where he operated a dairy. Mary Jane obtained cheese in this way. Father Hogensen always assisted by harvesting the hay and grain crops.

Mary Jane did not hesitate to continue faithfully in her duties. She would take her babe-in-arms and leading the two little boys attend church meetings. There were no street lights and some nights were very dark. On one such night, she returned home with her three little ones and just as she stepped into the gateway, which was set back a little, there sat a man. It frightened her terribly. He apologized and felt sorry it had happened, for it was not in any way intentional. The man was Walter Phelps whom she knew well. He was just waiting for a ride home with his brother, William Phelps, who was to pick him up after taking a girl friend home. The gateway had just been a good place to wait.

After marrying, each Christmas all would gather at the Hogensen home on Christmas day, until there were most too many families and then it would be in one of the daughter's homes where the children would gather. But the event of the first Christmas Tree was the second Christmas Ole was in Norway--1895. Uncle Charles Pearce procured the tree from the mountains and hid it in the shed. The youngsters were totally unaware of this. As planned, all gathered at Grandma's home. Mary hurried away a short time to perform the evening chores and then to the Pearce home where she, Alfred and Charles decorated the tree with tissue paper patterns, frills and teasels which they made. Candies set in little metal holders were placed all over the tree. They then joined the group and all had dinner at Grandma's. Charles and Alfred slipped away and hurried ahead of the group, lighting the tree and sneaking out of the back door as all the children poured into the room full of great surprise and excitement. They were definitely convinced that Santa had done all of this. From this time on there was a tree each year and a great time.

After twenty-seven months of being father and mother to this household and sacrificing much, Mary finally borrowed $25.00 that Ole would have sufficient to return; this was the first she had borrowed in all this time. Ole returned February 18, 1896 after a successful time and was very happy to join his good wife, the two boys and the baby girl, with whom he must make acquaintance--his daughter now twenty months of age. He immediately had work offered him, as Frank Oakley, a paper hanger and painter, hired him and paid $2.50 a day, which was considered a good wage. There was a great opportunity to learn new methods and ways of doing this work which would prove very helpful in later times, when he again would be working for himself.

In Ole's journal he wrote: "My wife was not well, having had a hard time while I was on my mission. It looked for a time like I was going to be without wife, and children without mother, but by work and the blessing of the Lord through the Priesthood, she survived and became strong again and has since been the mother of four healthy children--two boys and two girls."

February 6th, 1897, another baby boy came to this family but for a very short stay. Pneumonia again visited the home and the wee one was taken March 5th, only a month old. He had been given the name of Reuben. The snow was so deep to the cemetery, the women were not permitted to go. John Perkins went with an empty sleigh ahead of the party of men to make tracks for the mothers to follow, who brought the little body to is final resting place in the cold earth.

Not until April 29, 1899 were they blessed with another child; this was also a boy, Marriner, whom they welcomed.

At one time in the winter months, when Father Hogensen was climbing onto the back of a load of straw, he was jolted off and injured quite severely--apparently a break the doctor did not discover, as from then on he was almost bedfast and when improvement came a little and the family hoped for the best, Mary Jane and Agnes sat with him one night but Mary felt he would not continue his life here. The following morning she hurried home to prepare the children for school and within the hour he passed away, leaving Alfred and Mother Hogensen. Charles had earlier married and set his own household. For about a month Mary Jane and Ole stayed with them, by insistence of Mother Hogensen. They had received word of the immigration of a niece of Father Hogensen. He was her only relative who had joined the church and she too desired to be with the Saints and elected to come to him. This was Ingaborg who had been so strongly impressed with his final testimony to her mother, just prior to his leaving Norway. When she arrived, it was a great and sad surprise to learn that her Uncle Christian had died. It was good she came for she was very good to Mother Hogensen and took over the care of the house. It was a good home for her. They purchased a loom for Ingaborg, who had learned the carpet weaving trade. A room was set up where she could carry on this work and thereby have her income.

The Swensens were progressing fairly well, for they had added to the construction of the home, another room used for the kitchen, a clothes closet and pantry, the original rooms now being a living room and two bedrooms. In the summer of 1901 the home was lifted and moved a block nearer town, on property purchased from Charles Pearce. Soon after, electricity was to be had and this was wonderful--a new world at night.

December 28, 1901, a little baby girl came to the home and was named Lydia. She seemed to be a fine bouncing baby but every few weeks had a sick spell. But in time she overcame this trouble. The following November, the General Board of the M.I.A. called missionaries of each stake and assigned them to other stakes, in the interest of the growth of the M.I.A. work. Ole was called to go to Sevier County, Utah. This left Mary Jane alone again with the family; but there were five now to care for. The two oldest boys were able to take care of the chores and helped in many ways. This mission was for a few months and in March 1903 Father Swensen returned, finding all well at home. School had progressed greatly and the children who were of age attended it nine months of the year. Teachers were usually fairly well qualified and good with an occasional exception of one who thought the rod was the only method of discipline.

March 16, 1904 another baby girl was welcomed and named Lillas. Having been released from the M.I.A. organization, Mary Jane was now made secretary of the Relief Society. The one ward had grown considerable by the increase and growth of the town since the coming of the railroad. Main street had been changed from 4th street, running North and South to Main Street running East and West, from the hill to the railroad.

The next year Mary was called to be President of the Primary, as well as continuing in the Relief Society. This responsibility was taken with sincerity as was any other responsibility Mary Jane accepted or which fell to her lot. One of the outstanding traits of character always evident in the life of Mary Jane and Ole was dependability, being on time for appointments and always fulfilling their appointments to the very best of their ability. Rearing their family did not in any way keep them from performing their duty and keeping the commandments of the Gospel. When the children were small they were taken with parents; even the baby was wrapped and mother took it along and never did give the excuse that she must stay home to care for her family or that the children would be too noisy and the numerous other excuses one often hears and which seem to eventually kill the energetic spirit and zest for the things of our Father in Heaven.

Emma Bowen and Susan Mouritsen were selected as counselors and were both very faithful and diligent workers. Bishop Clark was insistent that at least once each year a fine entertainment should be prepared where the children participated. Often it seemed too big and the effort too great. These officers suggested a dance or something to raise funds but the growth of the children was the big thing of consideration; hence, these fine ladies continued in diligence with the weekly responsibilities and the yearly presentation regardless of the time, effort, worry and struggle that it was most of the time. But surely their efforts were not in vain, for those youngsters who participated will never forget these things. With those memories will come appreciation for those who had the patience and perseverance with them.

July 23, 1906 marked the date of the arrival of the ninth child and the fifth girl, Iris. She was a cheerful nature until her mother was out of her sight and she was afraid of strangers, which gave the mother some little trouble.

Every summer, there was a trip of about three days with the Pearce family and often others, out on the shores of Bear Lake. This was via the white-top buggy. It was a great time for all and each summer was welcomed for this big occasion. The summer of 1907 was the usual trip to Bear Lake and Swan Creek. The Winters family joined the party but one of the youngsters had whooping-cough and Mary Jane's baby took it. This was about the fourth time this disease had been in the family with the young ones and of course required much care and doctoring.

This summer, circumstances had improved generally and the boys were old enough to assist so that a new home was begun on the same spot as the old home. The house having been moved to the rear. Materials were purchased on credit--to be paid by installments, which was so very satisfactory with the dealer who was exceptionally nice, lenient and congenial. The house was a large two-story structure, as Mary Jane and Ole wanted something large enough to comfortably and properly accommodate their family of nine living people. Then, anything Ole tackled must be well done. The task was a big one but they accomplished it sufficiently that part of it was livable by the summer of 1908. The two front rooms were not completed but this was a small matter, as there were not furnishings for them. But it was a wonderful improvement over the former home, which had so well supplied the needs of the increasing family.

The following winter was very cold but a new member was added to the family January 23, 1908. This was a boy, Winslow, to even the number living to four boys and four girls. The doctor attending, Dr. Poynter, usually made his calls by horse-back or with a sleigh, if going any distance; or in the summertime these trips were by buggy. This was the only means of transportation and at times was very difficult to make calls but he was ready to answer every beck and call, day and night. If people needed assistance, it was their responsibility to do all within their power.

In the fall of the year a call came for Lorenzo to go to Norway, to fulfill a mission for the Church. Answering a duty of the Church was always first--a way could be provided. Yes, it would mean quite a sacrifice, for the home was not yet paid for, the account for the materials was not yet completed. When this creditor heard of the son going on a mission, he changed his attitude very promptly and made the statement. "If you can afford to send your son on a mission for the Church, you can afford to pay your bill." He was prejudiced to the Church--definitely. Father Swensen immediately secured the loan of enough to pay this bill that there should be no contention and trouble.

Only two months after Lorenzo left, a siege of smallpox came to the community and Lydia stayed home from school very ill. She and Lillas broke out with it about the same time. Business people who felt themselves of great importance hid the fact that the disease was in their homes so that they could go and come at will. This was definitely not a public service as it scattered the disease much more than if precautions had been taken. It was because of this dishonesty on the part of some that this Swensen family was exposed and contracted the disease. But the Swensens were more strictly quarantined and no one dared come nearer than the gate, which was some distance from the house. In about two weeks, Iris and Winslow had it. Even after the children were over the disease, through which they had so carefully been cared for by Mary Jane and Ole, the city officials would not remove the quarantine sign until into March. One day the boys, having been confined so closely home, thought they would take a ride up the canyon where they would likely never contact a soul; but they were reprimanded very severely for it. But there were a few thoughtful souls during these very trying and tying days. Aunt Ingeborg occasionally sent a choice bit of something--a loaf of raisin bread or a dainty of some sort. And then there was Grandpa Winters, postmaster, who came every day to the gate to bring mail and see if there was anything needed, which if there was he immediately obtained it. His daughter, Lizzie never forgot these shut-in-kids. She was always sending uncalled for catalogues for entertainment in looking and cutting which occupied many hours. This helped Father and Mother Swensen very much to pacify this well and restless family, unnecessarily shut in. There was no end of fuss and trouble of the fumigation process. But finally they were free again and with no ill effects to any of the four who had been afflicted.

Economy and frugality were always admirable qualities in this home and by using care and economy, the boy was maintained in the mission field and the borrowed money almost paid back, even though 8% interest was required. June 1912, Lorenzo returned, and all were glad for his return and to hear of the relatives in Norway and his interesting experiences.

To maintain a family of ten was no easy thing and it kept parents really digging. Providing the necessary income meant long, hard days for father. Very often company dropped in for a day or two at a time, in the interest of the Church or just passing through town. This made another plate or two at the table and another bed to rearrange but they were always made welcome by Ole and Mary Jane.

Ingaborg married, which would have left Grandmother Hogensen alone. This could not be. She expressed her wish to come to Mary Jane. Rearrangements were made and the family fitted into the three upstairs bedrooms. The usual table was set for eleven people, three times each day; and for the company, places were always provided. This meant baking of bread every day or the consumption of about fifty pounds of flour each week. Hungry mouths require a large quantity of the staff of life as well as plenty of other wholesome food. Then washing for this crowd was no small thing. However, the day of the wash-board was past and a hand washer was used. Then the children who were about--not in school--were required to turn the washer. Among the younger ones who couldn't do too much, turns were taken, counting off so many rounds each. But all had to help if Mary Jane was to keep atop of it all. Clothes were washed in the washer, then boiled in a large boiler of water with soap and lye added. This was on top of the coal range. It kept the clothes very white but in winter time especially was very undesirable because of the large amount of steam from the boiling water. For many years all of the water was carried in from the pump but as soon as available and possible, the city water was piped into the lot for use from an outside hydrant. This helped greatly to be able to draw water without pumping. When it could be afforded, the unfurnished space which had been build for a bathroom was equipped and this was indeed a wonderful asset to the household work.

Father Swensen was always anxious to provide whatever he could to help lighten the responsibilities of Mary Jane, to make a more comfortable and pleasant home. At this time he was employed by the Nielsen Furniture Company and was able to purchase an electric washer. It had a wooden tub bound with metal hoops; a lever swinging back and forth through a set of cog-wheels, on top of the lid, turned the dolly inside the tub. This was a wonderful help, but even then the big washing required the greater part of the day. But Mary Jane seemed to be quite capable of keeping atop of keeping home clean and the children decently and cleanly clothed.

Along with all this, she still carried on her church duties. She had been released from the Primary Association in 1912 but Relief Society responsibilities were many. January 1913, she was called to be secretary of the First Ward Relief Society and worked closely and constantly with the Presidency. This meant going to the bedside of the sick and the dying and spending much time with them, day and night, in the various homes afflicted. At the time of death, care of the dead was still the responsibility of the Relief Society as there was even at this late date no undertaker. All clothing for the dead had to be made by these women and Mary Jane was always on the job. Her family understood the need of others and the call of duty; hence were willing to cooperate; but Mary Jane did not neglect her family. She seemed to be able to cope with circumstances. Extra rushing and preparations and arrangements for some one to be responsible were always made, so that the duties of the home were kept in line. There was never complaining, irritableness, or gossip about these requirements and obligations. They were met with a sense of helpfulness and service to fellowmen. Nor was the frequent tramp or beggar asking for a meal or the begging Indian ever turned away from the door without a bit of food.

Patience, cheerfulness, love and kindness were evident in all her acts, in and out of the home. Never did she cease to do more than her share of the work and very often more than one might say was her share, whatever it might be.

About this point in the life of Mary Jane, her family began to decrease in one sense and increase in another. May 18, 1916, Lorenzo was married and set up in a new household, by purchasing the old Hogensen home from Grandmother. Beatrice Eloise Wride was the bride of this new home. Her home having been in Payson, Utah.

On October 2, 1917, Grandmother, at the age of eighty-seven years, passed away quietly, after about two weeks illness. Ole and Mary Jane had been happy to have her with them and to provide for her a comfortable place of abode during her last years. She seemed never to have been annoyed with the lively activity and noise of the children. Never did she attempt to change the ways of the family or how things should be done. One could have found her most always near the front window where she could watch the activity of the street or read quietly there.

Prior to this time, the expanse of the Bear Lake Stake was great and the population of the Church membership had sufficiently increased that the Bear Lake Stake was divided and a new stake created on the east side of the valley and to be known as the Montpelier Stake. This was December 23, 1918. Mary Jane was called to be secretary of the Stake Relief Society Board. Her labors as ward secretary had been so well and faithfully done that this greater responsibility was deemed not above her ability to care for in an excellent manner. Many other diligent and able women were called to comprise the whole board. Agnes Pearce, sister of Mary, was called as President. These women seemed to work with great unity and unlimited energy. This Stake position meant traveling from Ward to Ward, many of which were outlying settlements. Among them were: Bern, Nounan, Georgetown, Geneva, Raymond, Wardboro, Dingle, and Alton. Cars were not plentiful and none of these women had them or could drive, so the help of men would be enlisted and they very graciously took them to the various places. Praise must be given to these good men for this service. Winter time was different. Cars were not a winter vehicle in Bear Lake Valley, or any other snowy climate. Then the trips were made in bob-sleighs. Lunches and warm bricks were a part of these treks and a lot of warm clothes and covers. Again, the good men were called upon to make these trips, which took good full day at least, sometimes arriving home rather late. But such a merry, happy bunch and how they enjoyed these visits. At times the Ford wouldn't crank, or they walked up hills which were too steep for the car to pull the load, or the sleigh might give them a tip-over; but they took it all in a very jovial manner and as the years went by these experiences became a source of much humor.

Mary Jane was always in the front ranks to do her duty. The record work was much increased as at that time much reporting was done and the "wheat fund" was part of this work. The yearly report for each Ward was almost a book and comprised of many figures and statistics. They must balance and be just right. These were then compiled into a Stake report which must also balance. It was quite a task to get all the Wards into the running and have them understand how to do the reports--usually there were mistakes and contacting them to make corrections and gather necessary information was difficult. All of the compiled reports had to be into the general office in Salt Lake City by a certain time. Many hours of checking and double-checking were done, as Mary Jane would not think to have a report go in without being right. Seldom was there ever an error in her reports and she was highly commended for her fine work in this capacity. Figures were not her only responsibility along with the visiting. She still went to the bedside of the sick or those in need. The First Ward had been many times engaged to serve big banquets, in the Pavilion, for such organizations as the Railroad Engineers, etc. They always did such a wonderful job that the opportunity came two or three times a year and with these Mary continued to help. It was a source of income for the Relief Society and with which they could carry on their work from a financial standpoint. The turkeys for these meals were put out into the homes for roasting and occasionally when a bird was turned over for carving, the under-side leg would be missing. These times always meant at least two full days of hard work away from home, planning thoroughly and then working the plans. There were quiltings and sewing of rags for rugs, in the interest of the welfare of the people.

She was released as secretary of the Relief Society Stake Board July 17, 1932, at the age of nearly sixty-six. Her labors did not end here. She continued to serve in a Ward capacity as a Visiting Teacher in the Relief Society and assisting in every way possible in every activity, whether it be cooked food sales, scrubbing the church, quilting, serving banquets for Ward Reunions or what ever might be at hand. During this time the numerous home duties were receiving their due attention. Lorenzo and Eloise were having babies and she was always there to care for them Her niece, Nellie Pearce Perkins, was also needing help with her babies. Nellie made the expression that Mary Jane had been a second mother to her and that she had cared for her and all of her babies for at least two weeks after their arrival, with the exception of Lowell, her first. During this time Nellie lived next house to the Swensens. Grandmothers often make good baby-sitters and Mary Jane often did this, even in her eighties.

The last years of the nineteen twenties, Mary's husband, Ole, began to weaken in health. He had so long been a victim of rheumatism and at times it was very painful. He had always worked beyond his strength and it began to make its mark. His work in public had to practically cease and he kept himself occupied writing and concerning himself with genealogy, is which he had actively sought to get the records of his ancestors. For about the first six months in 1929 he was bedfast and Mary Jane hardly left his side, day and night, attending him in all love and devotion of a good wife. How she ever maintained her own health and proper equilibrium under this constant watching strain was a wonderful thing. On July 24, 1929 he departed this life, which left her to go the way partly alone. This is a time when a family is a blessing to ease the burden of loneliness in the loss of ones life-long partner.

With the strong testimony of the Gospel and a full knowledge of it, Mary J. continued in her duties of home and church in full activity. But it must not have been an easy task. However, she made adjustments very well, because of her good reasoning and strength of character. Probably all of this was her good Norwegian heritage, to be hard-working, enduring and dependable.

Mary J. never did speak the Norwegian language. She felt very self-conscious about it, saying that she could not do it right so it was better she not speak. But she understood the language perfectly and could also read it. It would have been a wonderful opportunity for the whole family to have learned another language but for some reason it was not done. In a bit of fun at times, Ole would speak it for the amusement of the youngsters; but when he took this country as his, he tried to do it whole-heartedly, even in language.

During her tenure as a Relief Society Stake Board Member, she never missed the annual Relief Society Conference in Salt Lake City, preceding the semi-annual conference in October of each year. No doubt at times it must have been a sacrifice, inasmuch as ready cash was not always available. Father Swensen was never paid a good wage, yet because of his concern and faithfulness in the Church, he desired Mary J. to fulfill this part of her duty and he helped in any way that was possible in order for her to go to Salt Lake City and reap the benefits of the special meetings which would help her to more fully accomplish her work in the church. It always meant several days getting along without mother. Previous to her going, she would prepare extra baking and cooking and see that the household duties would be cared for and her family not neglected. No doubt those at home accustomed to her care and doing, appreciated her the more and were always anxious for her return and to hear of her trip.

As years passed, the children grew up and one by one finished their high school and reached out for that which would keep them busy and maintain themselves. Many events in their lives transpired which naturally were close to their Mother, Mary Jane. She loved to have her family near her and their activities were her greatest interest. Lorenzo taught manual arts and other subjects in the local High School. Clarence owned and operated a farm in the Hatch country. This he later sold and returned home to live, being employed in the Frank Miles flour mill. In 1918, Marriner and Clarence were drafted into the service of the U.S., which was an undesirable and anxious experience. At this time a family group picture was taken, as who knew but what it might be the last time the family would all be together. Father had smaller size pictures made for the two boys, that they might carry with them. Very fortunately neither of them left the country, as peace terms were made before any call beyond the U.S. borders was made of them.

Edna had taken schooling in dressmaking and became a very efficient seamstress, having her own shop in Montpelier and later moving to Salt Lake City. Marriner filled a mission in the Southern States, from January 21, 1920 to 1922. Later Marriner and Lydia followed the teaching profession, gaining much of their required education by teaching during the winter and attending summer schools. Lillas engaged in private teaching of piano and had three winters of music training at the McCune School of Music and Arts.

The family had owned a little organ when the children were small. Mary J. used to play it. Desiring that the children be taught to play, the little old organ was sold and a nice new piano came into the home. That was a great day. However, Mary J. never would play it. Now that all the children were passed the lullaby stage, she never would sing anymore, claiming she could not sing....very self-conscious. She thoroughly enjoyed the family to get together and sing, as was often the case. Many times was the special "Home Evening" an event with much singing.

Clarence filled a mission in the Central States for two years, beginning February 17, 1927. Marriner married Adella Wright, from Hyrum, Utah, June 14, 1928. Clarence Married Martha May Nelson, from Salt Lake City, June 17, 1931. Winslow filled a mission in Norway and afterward attended school in Salt Lake City. Iris was transferred in her work to Pocatello, Idaho. Winslow married Velma Etta Litchfield from Raymond, Alberta, Canada, September 20, 1939. All of these and other events caused more or less of a continual going and coming of family members. Mother Swensen was always happy to have them come home and regretted having to see them leave again. She was most satisfied when all the family were near her. If she expected any of them to be coming from a distance, she would watch continually for them--especially at night she would become anxious and make many trips to the front windows or door, peering into the night and hoping that the next car on the highway going past the home would be the one to turn into the driveway to relieve her worry. It was not uncommon, for those coming to see her silhouetted in the oval glass door.

The latter part of May in 1935, Mother Swensen returned from a trip to Salt Lake City. She contracted a bad cold, with a severe cough. It was necessary to call the doctor, who said she almost had pneumonia. This was a very rare occasion for Mother to be sick in bed. It was nearly a month before recovery, but she was soon well and spry at this age of seventy.

She was constantly faithful to her church duties and she lived the principles of the gospel to the best of her knowledge and ability. She never refused or missed paying a full tithing, fast offering, donations to building the new church building or helping a missionary or whatever the need or call may be. The Church was a first throughout her life. This no doubt accounted for the many blessings for which she was always grateful. The home was never without family prayer--night and morning. This was a strong family tie in the home and a great teacher as well.

June 12, 1945, Lydia passed away in the L.D.S. hospital in Salt Lake City, after a few months illness. Mother took this event in the usual calmness and assurity as she seemed to have done all her life. However, she felt that through the power of the Priesthood, this daughter was spared longer suffering of a cruel disease, by being taken in death.

In 1946, Iris left to fill a mission eastern Canada. By letter she urged Mother to write the events of her life briefly and when Iris returned they together would complete a short history. The constant reminding did not bring results until about two weeks prior to homecoming. To comply with this request, mother took a large sized envelope, which had enclose a greeting card. She carefully opened it thusly and proceeded. She wrote, beginning at the tip, of her parents joining the church and emigrating to the United States, of their marriage on the boat, as they journeyed across the ocean, of their travel by hand-cart to the west and such events. This filled the envelope to the bottom of both points. By then the final statement was of the birth of Mary Jane. Upon asking her why she had not written more she replied, "There was nothing more to write."
Self-praise or esteem was not hers to speak. Little did she ever publicly speak praise of her family. If what they did was good, it would speak for itself and did not need further applauding. Some of her friends were quite constantly proclaiming their families and people generally condoned it but wearied of the self-praise. She did not wish to be of this nature. She was very humble about such things. In her heart she was glad for her family and what they did and particularly that they were diligent in the Church. She was concerned that they attend to their duties nd other things would be taken care of accordingly.

In April 1949 Lillas left for a mission in the California Mission. This was the first time Mary Jane had been alone. Her family were now gone from the home. Clarence and Winslow, with their families, lived just south and Lorenzo was two and one-half blocks away, Marriner in California, Edna in Salt Lake City and Iris in Pocatello. never-the-less, she kept her home clean and in good order with the assistance from the boys, for harder tasks. The grand-children were of help to her also and kept her from becoming lonesome. Her health during this time was exceptionally good and loneliness apparently did not bother her. She still owned at least one cow. She felt that a necessity to have a supply of milk, butter and cream rather than to purchase it. The owning of a cow seemed to give her a sense of security. She had always been used to a plenteous supply of dairy products.

She was glad when Lillas returned, November 9, 1950. But it seemed that very soon age began showing. She could not get about too easily, as she had some trouble with her feet. Too, she was not able to accomplish as much in the line of home duties that she had taken care of. She still tried to rake the lawn and water the garden, flowers and lawn with the hose. She cared for the daily household tasks but gradually more of that fell to Lillas. She had not held a church responsibility since about 1945, then being released from Relief Society block teaching. But she never missed Sunday School, Sacrament meeting and Relief Society. She kept busy with hand work and reading. All her life had been a busy one with no idle moments and it was difficult to see idle moments go by.

She braided many rugs from worn clothing and pieced many quilt tops. She did crocheting until she was eighty-seven. In the early part of her eighty-eighth year she pieced three quilt tops within about three months time. Much of this had to be done with the assistance of Lillas who tried to provide her with ample things to occupy time. But to give her work that she would have something to pick up at odd times was in a sense futile as she would feel she must get it done in a hurry and would tire herself. Her work was, of course, not what it had been in years past. She had been an exceptionally good quilter and it would be difficult to number the many she had done in her life, for her self and also assisted others. Many are the quilts under which the youngsters played. The four long frames were set up in a square and tied at the corners to the backs of chairs. The quilt was sewed to the frames on all sides. As
the quilting progressed, the two opposite sides were rolled. It was always a relief when the quilting was completed and out of the frames and the room put back to normal order.

Mother always enjoyed riding in the car and was usually ready to go on the spur of the moment, but never for long at a time, as she felt she must be back home to have the chores done on time. On one of these short rides up Montpelier Canyon, when viewing the phosphate mines, she said she had heard her folks talk of Brigham Young saying the mountains in this canyon would yield wealth of mineral. They had thought that to be a rather foolish statement. She abhorred being late with the milking, separating the milk and supper. All her life she had milked cows and even when well up into years would lend a too willing hand if the boys were occupied or a little late. After she was finally convinced she really was not able to do this chore and that it was unsafe for her, she still fussed if the boys were not getting the milking done when it should be. She still would not dispose of her only cow. She felt she had nothing by way of support if she did not have this cow.

During the last couple of years, more time was passed with just sitting by the window to watch the traffic of the street or sleeping. Too long rides tired her and she became less apt with her hands. She always read much--usually Church books and many books of compilations on lives of church leaders. As she aged, her memory became less apt, especially for current happenings and she often had dizzy spells. She began to feel she must be a bother to others and it was very annoying to her that she could do such a little and that she could not remember. She worried over many little things which were of such little consequence but seemed to be magnified in her mind. She realized this but could not help it. Then she became very much concerned of being alone. Moments almost seemed like hours to her. During the illness of Lorenzo for about two years, she worried constantly for his welfare and grieved so much that he should have to bear such pain. On November 5, 1955 he passed away and this was very upsetting to her. She could not carry through such occasions as in years past.

She continued in fair health, still having full use of her senses and faculties. However, she felt at times the light were not as bright as usual. She never missed Sunday School and Sacrament Meeting and was very often to Relief Society. She usually returned very tired and rested much of the day or two following. She gave her full support to Church activity. Wednesday, February 22, 1956, was First Ward Reunion. Lillas felt she wouldn't mention it, as if Mother went, she would be so very tired and it would be too much strain. The doctor called that day and mentioned the reunion. "Oh, is it the Ward Reunion, then we must get ready and go." So she was there and seemed to enjoy it fully but did become very tired. She rested much of the following days but was up and dressed as usual.

The saturday morning following she awoke early and very ill. This was likely the only time she expressed herself as, "I am so sick" and likely the first time she was glad to have Dr. Burgoyne come. Other times when Lillas had called him, Mother felt it unnecessary. That afternoon she went to sleep--a stroke or cerebral hemorrhage having taken place. From then on she apparently sensed no pain or awareness. The following Thursday, March 1, 1956, the sleep ended and she had finished her mortal life. Lillas had cared for her during these last years with much patience and some times endurance, but never failed to give the best of care and supply every want. Mother often said how she appreciated her sons and daughters and how much they always did for her. She felt too that she had the best daughters-in-law that could be and she appreciated the much consideration they gave her and the many things they did for her. The three of them who lived near were right there to give every assistance in her last days.

Mary Jane's life's blessings had been many; she had never been without the necessities of life, although at times it had been difficult and a puzzle as to how to make "ends meet". After childhood, she had never been subjected to any of the tragic diseases of the times. She had maintained active senses and had not been subjected to suffering and helplessness. She had thoroughly enjoyed her family, which at the time of her death was three sons--Clarence, Marriner and Winslow--, three daughters--Edna, Lillas and Iris; fifteen grand children and nine great-grand children. Her brother, Alfred, had proceeded her in death on December 9, 1955. Her half-sister Clara Hogensen Hancock is living in Logan, Utah.

Her life was one of devoted wife and Mother of whom we could say "She had no guile." Patience, cheerfulness, love and kindness were evident in all her acts, in and out of the home. Never did she cease to do more than her share and very often much more. In her youth she had been given a promise at the hand of the Priesthood that she would "Have health resting upon her and enduring to the end." Surely this promise was completely fulfilled.

She wanted most of all that her family be happy, that there be good feeling for one another. Each had their own ways and personality but she knew they were good. She was most happy for their diligence in the activities of the Church and that they were striving to be faithful in the Gospel, which truly was the way of eternal life. She was pleased that they had all participated in temple work and that all the marriages in the family had been performed in the temples. She had often gone to the temple herself and knew it to be important and necessary. She loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and thrilled with their visits. To her, life was good, and she was good to life.

Her life was parallel with the scripture, Proverbs 31:10-31 and in many ways in an honest interpretation of her manner of living.

A great woman has gone to a greater life.

She always leaned to watch for us,
Anxious if we were late,
In the winter by the window,
In summer by the gate.

Although we mock her tenderly,
Who had such foolish care,
The long way home would seem more safe
Because she waited there.

Her thoughts were so full of us;
She never could forget.
And so I think that where she is
She must be waiting yet.

Waiting 'till we come home to her,
Anxious if we are late,
Watching from heaven's window,
Leaning from heaven's gate.