Early Pioneers of Magrath
Eli Bennett Jr. & Maria Elizabeth Berry 05 May 2022
Eli Bennett (46) and his wife Maria Berry and their family came to Magrath, Alberta in 1899. Maria, born in 1857 in Cedar Fort, Utah, was from a family of five surviving children. The Bennett’s travelled overland from southeastern Idaho with Eli’s younger brother, William David Bennett, and his family. Eli served as second counsellor to Bishop Levi Harker, the first bishop of the Magrath Ward of the Church. Eli owned a farm near Magrath, which the Bennett’s and their six surviving children farmed. Several years after moving to Magrath (1912), much of the Eli Bennett family returned to Idaho. (Sources: Magrath Museum; FamilySearch).
Eli Bennett Jr (far right), second counselor to Bishop Levi Harker (center) of the Magrath Ward.
Eli Bennett Jr. & Maria Elizabeth Berry 05 May 2022
Eli Bennett (46) and his wife Maria Berry and their family came to Magrath, Alberta in 1899. Maria, born in 1857 in Cedar Fort, Utah, was from a family of five surviving children. The Bennett’s travelled overland from southeastern Idaho with Eli’s younger brother, William David Bennett, and his family. Eli served as second counsellor to Bishop Levi Harker, the first bishop of the Magrath Ward of the Church. Eli owned a farm near Magrath, which the Bennett’s and their six surviving children farmed. Several years after moving to Magrath (1912), much of the Eli Bennett family returned to Idaho. (Sources: Magrath Museum; FamilySearch).
Eli Bennett Jr (far right), second counselor to Bishop Levi Harker (center) of the Magrath Ward.
Early Pioneers of Magrath
William David Bennett & Emma Neat 5 May 2022
William David Bennett (39) and his wife, Emma Neat, brought their family to Magrath in Southern Alberta in 1899. Emma, born 1869 in Worcestershire, England, had come to America as a ten-year-old. Both William David he and his older brother, Eli Jr., had received calls from the Church to go and help build an irrigation canal. At the time William David received the call, the family were finally getting established as settlers in the Dingle, Idaho (Bear Lake County) area. Their youngest child, Chauncey, was just beginning to walk. Now they were off again. Many relatives and neighbours tried to convince them that this call was like a death sentence, and they should ask to be released. But the Bennett’s were resolved to go, travelling overland in two wagons and a buggy, averaging thirty-five miles per day. Arriving in Cardston, and given the opportunity, they settled in Magrath. William David remained in the area until about 1907. then, to acquire more land (not yet irrigated), he relocated his family fifty miles northeast into the Taber, Alberta area. (Sources: Magrath Museum; FamilySearch).
William David Bennett family (L-R): Back--William David, Mary Louisa, William Alvin, Milford Eli, Emma Neat, George Chauncey (on knee); Front—Archibald F. (seated), and Margaret Emma.
William David Bennett & Emma Neat 5 May 2022
William David Bennett (39) and his wife, Emma Neat, brought their family to Magrath in Southern Alberta in 1899. Emma, born 1869 in Worcestershire, England, had come to America as a ten-year-old. Both William David he and his older brother, Eli Jr., had received calls from the Church to go and help build an irrigation canal. At the time William David received the call, the family were finally getting established as settlers in the Dingle, Idaho (Bear Lake County) area. Their youngest child, Chauncey, was just beginning to walk. Now they were off again. Many relatives and neighbours tried to convince them that this call was like a death sentence, and they should ask to be released. But the Bennett’s were resolved to go, travelling overland in two wagons and a buggy, averaging thirty-five miles per day. Arriving in Cardston, and given the opportunity, they settled in Magrath. William David remained in the area until about 1907. then, to acquire more land (not yet irrigated), he relocated his family fifty miles northeast into the Taber, Alberta area. (Sources: Magrath Museum; FamilySearch).
William David Bennett family (L-R): Back--William David, Mary Louisa, William Alvin, Milford Eli, Emma Neat, George Chauncey (on knee); Front—Archibald F. (seated), and Margaret Emma.
Early Pioneers of Magrath
George Washington Birch Jr. & Laura Elizabeth Hansen 5 May 2022
George Birch (25) came to Magrath, Alberta in 1899. He had, that same year, married Laura Hansen in Bennington, Bear Lake County, Idaho. Laura hailed from the area, her parents having immigrated from Denmark about thirty years earlier. A coronet player, George was the leader of Magrath’s first band, consisting of sixteen members, the total cost of their instruments being $480. He later (1902) became a member of the town’s first Amusement Committee. A few years after that, the family moved to nearby Taber—not yet irrigated—likely in search of more land. There, George also led a community band, while operating a farm. The couple went on to have thirteen children, most living to adulthood. (Sources: Magrath Museum, FamilySearch).
George W. Birch family (L-R): Rear--William Victor, Florence Gyzette, Horace Lyman, George W., Laura Elizabeth Hansen, Laura Maud, March Franklin, Lillis; Front—Floyd, Ruby Lucille, Heber Allen, Grace, Berta Earl.
George Washington Birch Jr. & Laura Elizabeth Hansen 5 May 2022
George Birch (25) came to Magrath, Alberta in 1899. He had, that same year, married Laura Hansen in Bennington, Bear Lake County, Idaho. Laura hailed from the area, her parents having immigrated from Denmark about thirty years earlier. A coronet player, George was the leader of Magrath’s first band, consisting of sixteen members, the total cost of their instruments being $480. He later (1902) became a member of the town’s first Amusement Committee. A few years after that, the family moved to nearby Taber—not yet irrigated—likely in search of more land. There, George also led a community band, while operating a farm. The couple went on to have thirteen children, most living to adulthood. (Sources: Magrath Museum, FamilySearch).
George W. Birch family (L-R): Rear--William Victor, Florence Gyzette, Horace Lyman, George W., Laura Elizabeth Hansen, Laura Maud, March Franklin, Lillis; Front—Floyd, Ruby Lucille, Heber Allen, Grace, Berta Earl.
Magrath's first band: Back row--1. Rowan Fletcher, 2. Ammon Mercer, 3. Charles Harker; Middle row—6. Jessee Smith, 8. Raley Weaver, 10. Alvin Hansen; Front row—4. Levi Harker, 5. Claire Bennett, 7. Andrew Rasmussen, 9. Ray Jensen (drum), 9a. Ralph Winterton; Front—12. George Birch (leader, sitting), 13. Newell Rich.
Early Pioneers of Magrath
Fredrich (Fred) Bluemel & Maria (Mary) Augusta Grellert 5 May 2022
Fredrich Bluemel (43) and Maria Grellert (originally from Berlin, Germany) came with their family to Magrath in 1899. Hailing from Farmington, Utah, they briefly settled in Cardston, then moved thirty miles east to Magrath. At first living in a tent, their home south of town was soon completed. A carpenter by trade, Fred assisted in building the first six small homes in Magrath. He and Mary were industrious people, being ambitious gardeners. Their place was beautified with many fruit trees and vegetables. An extensive exhibitor in local fairs, Fred won many prizes for his fruits and vegetables. Mary had a quick whit, was kind and hard-working. Both were active in Church affairs. (Sources: Magrath Museum, FamilySearch).
Fred Bluemel family (L-R): Back—Oscar, Walter Charles, Amelia Esther, Johann Friedrich; Front—Horace, Maria Aguste Grellert, William (baby), and Helen.
Fredrich (Fred) Bluemel & Maria (Mary) Augusta Grellert 5 May 2022
Fredrich Bluemel (43) and Maria Grellert (originally from Berlin, Germany) came with their family to Magrath in 1899. Hailing from Farmington, Utah, they briefly settled in Cardston, then moved thirty miles east to Magrath. At first living in a tent, their home south of town was soon completed. A carpenter by trade, Fred assisted in building the first six small homes in Magrath. He and Mary were industrious people, being ambitious gardeners. Their place was beautified with many fruit trees and vegetables. An extensive exhibitor in local fairs, Fred won many prizes for his fruits and vegetables. Mary had a quick whit, was kind and hard-working. Both were active in Church affairs. (Sources: Magrath Museum, FamilySearch).
Fred Bluemel family (L-R): Back—Oscar, Walter Charles, Amelia Esther, Johann Friedrich; Front—Horace, Maria Aguste Grellert, William (baby), and Helen.
Early Pioneers of Magrath [[Use museum photo of family; identify individuals]]
Parley Pratt Carter & Hannah Cecilia Rasmussen 12 May 2022
In 1899, Parley Carter (28) and Cecelia Rasmussen brought their young family to Magrath, travelling from Utah together with their in-laws, the Rasmus Rasmussen family. The pioneers arrived by train at Stirling, then drove overland by wagon to Magrath. Parley and Celia had wed a few years earlier (1896) in Provo, Utah. Parley’s father, Dominicus Carter, was a prominent, early member of the Church. Cecilia’s parents (Rasmus Rasmussen & Hannah Zobell) had come to Utah from Denmark separately, later marrying. In Magrath, the Carter’s constructed one of the first ‘dugout’ homes in town, the shelter dug into a hillside north and possibly west of the current Diamond Willow Lodge (corner 2nd S and Centre St). Hard workers, the couple grew fine vegetables, winning prizes for their amazing garden. They were one of the only families in town to have a strawberry patch. By 1911 the Carter’s had relocated 300 miles further north to Edmonton, Alberta. A few years after that, they returned to the United States, settling in California. (Sources: Magrath Museum; FamilySearch).
Parley Pratt Carter & Hannah Cecilia Rasmussen 12 May 2022
In 1899, Parley Carter (28) and Cecelia Rasmussen brought their young family to Magrath, travelling from Utah together with their in-laws, the Rasmus Rasmussen family. The pioneers arrived by train at Stirling, then drove overland by wagon to Magrath. Parley and Celia had wed a few years earlier (1896) in Provo, Utah. Parley’s father, Dominicus Carter, was a prominent, early member of the Church. Cecilia’s parents (Rasmus Rasmussen & Hannah Zobell) had come to Utah from Denmark separately, later marrying. In Magrath, the Carter’s constructed one of the first ‘dugout’ homes in town, the shelter dug into a hillside north and possibly west of the current Diamond Willow Lodge (corner 2nd S and Centre St). Hard workers, the couple grew fine vegetables, winning prizes for their amazing garden. They were one of the only families in town to have a strawberry patch. By 1911 the Carter’s had relocated 300 miles further north to Edmonton, Alberta. A few years after that, they returned to the United States, settling in California. (Sources: Magrath Museum; FamilySearch).
Parley Carter family (L-R): back—?, Parley, ?, Cecelia, ?; front—?,?, ? (infant).
Early Pioneers of Magrath [[See Magrath Museum for a family photo]]
Arthur Biggerton Critchfield & Lettie Lenore Conrey 12 May 2022
Arthur Critchfield (27) and Lettie Conrey came to Magrath in late 1899. They travelled by train to Stirling, then drove overland by wagon another fifty miles, briefly settling in Cardston. The couple (both born in the US) had been married in Denver, Colorado, where, as new members of the Church, they associated with Apostle John W. Tayor. Arthur’s sister, Eleanor, had wed John T. Spencer and in Farmington, Utah, both families accepted the Church call to move to Alberta. In Magrath, the two families lived next door to each—where their neighbourhood was known for brightening the mood during those hard pioneer times. Eleven of the twelve Critchfield children were later born in the town. Lettie, an active member of the community, belonged to the Women’s Institute, and the Helping Hands Club. Arthur worked on the canal, farmed, and learned to be a carpenter. A gifted entertainer, he is remembered for his comic songs, humorous monologues, and his part in amateur dramatic productions. The couple were married for more than sixty years. Arthur died in 1981 at 108 years of age. (Sources: Magrath Museum; FamilySearch).
Arthur B. Chritchfield and Lettie L. Conrey, on their 50th Wedding Anniversary
Arthur Biggerton Critchfield & Lettie Lenore Conrey 12 May 2022
Arthur Critchfield (27) and Lettie Conrey came to Magrath in late 1899. They travelled by train to Stirling, then drove overland by wagon another fifty miles, briefly settling in Cardston. The couple (both born in the US) had been married in Denver, Colorado, where, as new members of the Church, they associated with Apostle John W. Tayor. Arthur’s sister, Eleanor, had wed John T. Spencer and in Farmington, Utah, both families accepted the Church call to move to Alberta. In Magrath, the two families lived next door to each—where their neighbourhood was known for brightening the mood during those hard pioneer times. Eleven of the twelve Critchfield children were later born in the town. Lettie, an active member of the community, belonged to the Women’s Institute, and the Helping Hands Club. Arthur worked on the canal, farmed, and learned to be a carpenter. A gifted entertainer, he is remembered for his comic songs, humorous monologues, and his part in amateur dramatic productions. The couple were married for more than sixty years. Arthur died in 1981 at 108 years of age. (Sources: Magrath Museum; FamilySearch).
Arthur B. Chritchfield and Lettie L. Conrey, on their 50th Wedding Anniversary
Early Pioneers of Magrath
Charles Heber Dudley & Dorothy Ann Wallace 12 May 2022
Charles Heber Dudley (50) and Dorothy Ann Wallace were called by the Church to come to Canada in 1899 to help build an irrigation canal. Arriving in the Magrath area in February of that year, he built a two-room dugout along the Pot Hole River south of the present town. This was in a hill facing the stream (see the present historic site), just west of the future location of the Galt canal. Then Charles Heber returned to Utah for his family. The Dudley’s arrived in Lethbridge by train in April 1899, put their wagons together and rode out to the Pot Hole. The grass was knee high, waving like an ocean. Dorothy nailed muslin cloth to the inside walls of the dugout, having enough woven rugs to cover the entire floor, with a layer of straw underneath. They were crowded but together. The Dudley’s stayed through storms, hard winters, and droughts, making the best of what they had, settling the country as they and so many others had been called to do.
The Charles Heber Dudley family (L-R): Back—Wallace, Hannah Ida, George Benjamin, Dorothy Etta, Charles Heber Jr, Harriet, Oliver Thomas; Front—Thelma, Charles Heber Sr., Dorothy Ann Wallace, Emily.
Charles Heber Dudley & Dorothy Ann Wallace 12 May 2022
Charles Heber Dudley (50) and Dorothy Ann Wallace were called by the Church to come to Canada in 1899 to help build an irrigation canal. Arriving in the Magrath area in February of that year, he built a two-room dugout along the Pot Hole River south of the present town. This was in a hill facing the stream (see the present historic site), just west of the future location of the Galt canal. Then Charles Heber returned to Utah for his family. The Dudley’s arrived in Lethbridge by train in April 1899, put their wagons together and rode out to the Pot Hole. The grass was knee high, waving like an ocean. Dorothy nailed muslin cloth to the inside walls of the dugout, having enough woven rugs to cover the entire floor, with a layer of straw underneath. They were crowded but together. The Dudley’s stayed through storms, hard winters, and droughts, making the best of what they had, settling the country as they and so many others had been called to do.
The Charles Heber Dudley family (L-R): Back—Wallace, Hannah Ida, George Benjamin, Dorothy Etta, Charles Heber Jr, Harriet, Oliver Thomas; Front—Thelma, Charles Heber Sr., Dorothy Ann Wallace, Emily.
Early Pioneers of Magrath
F. Peirce Fisher & Sarah A. Gibb 19 May 2022
Peirce Fisher (17) and his horse, Old Tom, responded to a call to come to Magrath in 1899 to work on building the irrigation canal. Two years later, he met and married Sarah Gibb. She had just moved from Utah with her parents, the eight child in a family of twelve surviving children. In later years, said Sarah, “I thought nothing could be worse than leaving my friends, our wonderful home, and school at Brigham Young Academy.” Then she met Peirce in Magrath. He used his earnings to buy a farm and settle in the area. Peirce was the District Weed Inspector for many years and ‘operated’ a government experimental plot. He was a man of great faith in the Lord, and in the healing power of the priesthood. In 1910 the family of six children (eventually thirteen) relocated forty miles west to Hill Spring. There Peirce was Bishop of the Hill Spring Ward for fifteen years, and Patriarch of the Alberta Stake for thirty-seven years. Sarah served a five-year term as president of the Relief Society in the ward. (Sources: Magrath Museum, FamilySearch).
F. Peirce Fisher family (L-R): Rear--Glen, Mary Phyllis, John Robert (baby), F. Peirce (father), Neff, Sarah A. Gibb (mother) Orin, Emma; Front—James Milton (toddler), Minerva, Carol?, Ada, Ethel.
F. Peirce Fisher & Sarah A. Gibb 19 May 2022
Peirce Fisher (17) and his horse, Old Tom, responded to a call to come to Magrath in 1899 to work on building the irrigation canal. Two years later, he met and married Sarah Gibb. She had just moved from Utah with her parents, the eight child in a family of twelve surviving children. In later years, said Sarah, “I thought nothing could be worse than leaving my friends, our wonderful home, and school at Brigham Young Academy.” Then she met Peirce in Magrath. He used his earnings to buy a farm and settle in the area. Peirce was the District Weed Inspector for many years and ‘operated’ a government experimental plot. He was a man of great faith in the Lord, and in the healing power of the priesthood. In 1910 the family of six children (eventually thirteen) relocated forty miles west to Hill Spring. There Peirce was Bishop of the Hill Spring Ward for fifteen years, and Patriarch of the Alberta Stake for thirty-seven years. Sarah served a five-year term as president of the Relief Society in the ward. (Sources: Magrath Museum, FamilySearch).
F. Peirce Fisher family (L-R): Rear--Glen, Mary Phyllis, John Robert (baby), F. Peirce (father), Neff, Sarah A. Gibb (mother) Orin, Emma; Front—James Milton (toddler), Minerva, Carol?, Ada, Ethel.
Early Pioneers of Magrath
Willard T. Fletcher & Mary P. Wooley 19 May 2022
Willard Fletcher (50) and his family were some of the first to come to Magrath (1899), moving into one of the new, small homes that had recently been completed there. He and his wife, Mary P. Wooley, brought their six children from Salt Lake City, Utah. Willard said they only had four weeks to prepare for the move. They left at the end of May, travelling by train to Stirling, in company with Peirce Fisher, the Leonard Hardy and Isaac Jacobs families. The Fletcher’s had brought enough provisions for a year, even sacks of bread, unsure they would ever see another white person again. Willard worked on the canal and started Magrath’s first store. It was established in a tent, under the care of his son, Rowan. Willard acquired 160 acres of farmland west of Magrath. He put up the first fence in the district. He also kept a hotel, feed barn, and a fine livery stable. Willard, who crossed the plains to Utah on his mother’s back as a frail infant at four months of age, lived to be 87 years old.
Willard T. Fletcher family (L-R): Back--Arthur W., Samuel Willard, Rowan W., Ira Camille; Front—Catherine Irene, Willard T., Mary P. Wooley, Cyrus Mehring.
Willard T. Fletcher & Mary P. Wooley 19 May 2022
Willard Fletcher (50) and his family were some of the first to come to Magrath (1899), moving into one of the new, small homes that had recently been completed there. He and his wife, Mary P. Wooley, brought their six children from Salt Lake City, Utah. Willard said they only had four weeks to prepare for the move. They left at the end of May, travelling by train to Stirling, in company with Peirce Fisher, the Leonard Hardy and Isaac Jacobs families. The Fletcher’s had brought enough provisions for a year, even sacks of bread, unsure they would ever see another white person again. Willard worked on the canal and started Magrath’s first store. It was established in a tent, under the care of his son, Rowan. Willard acquired 160 acres of farmland west of Magrath. He put up the first fence in the district. He also kept a hotel, feed barn, and a fine livery stable. Willard, who crossed the plains to Utah on his mother’s back as a frail infant at four months of age, lived to be 87 years old.
Willard T. Fletcher family (L-R): Back--Arthur W., Samuel Willard, Rowan W., Ira Camille; Front—Catherine Irene, Willard T., Mary P. Wooley, Cyrus Mehring.
Early Pioneers of Magrath
John Lye Gibb & Sarah A. Smith 19 May 2022
In 1899, John Lye Gibb (50) and his wife Sarah A. Smith were called by the Church to move from Lehi, Utah, to the District of Alberta in the North West Territories of Canada. They were to settle in the village of Magrath, a yet undeveloped community. John had two wives, and since he could only bring one of them into the country, it was agreed by mutual consent that the second (Hannah Simmons) would remain with their nine children near her family in the United States. John ran a shoemaker and harness shop on main street in Magrath. Their first home there was a dugout in the side of a hill, with a slab roof and a dirt floor. For Sarahh, this was quite a change, where there were no doctors, no electric lights, and no running water. In Lehi, John had led the church choir and he was now the first choir director in Magrath. He served on the School Board and was the Village Overseer for a number of years, policing the community. He planted many trees and flowers, to beautify his home and the community. Sarah, meanwhile, continued to teach her children to pray, and she taught them to love the gospel of Jesus Christ. (Sources: Magrath Museum and FamilySearch).
John Lye Gibb Sara A. Smith
John Lye Gibb & Sarah A. Smith 19 May 2022
In 1899, John Lye Gibb (50) and his wife Sarah A. Smith were called by the Church to move from Lehi, Utah, to the District of Alberta in the North West Territories of Canada. They were to settle in the village of Magrath, a yet undeveloped community. John had two wives, and since he could only bring one of them into the country, it was agreed by mutual consent that the second (Hannah Simmons) would remain with their nine children near her family in the United States. John ran a shoemaker and harness shop on main street in Magrath. Their first home there was a dugout in the side of a hill, with a slab roof and a dirt floor. For Sarahh, this was quite a change, where there were no doctors, no electric lights, and no running water. In Lehi, John had led the church choir and he was now the first choir director in Magrath. He served on the School Board and was the Village Overseer for a number of years, policing the community. He planted many trees and flowers, to beautify his home and the community. Sarah, meanwhile, continued to teach her children to pray, and she taught them to love the gospel of Jesus Christ. (Sources: Magrath Museum and FamilySearch).
John Lye Gibb Sara A. Smith
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Early Pioneers of Magrath
Heber Chase Harrison & Mary Capitolia Bierdneau 27 May 2022
Heber Harrison (44) and Capitolia Bierdneau (Bierdman) brought their family of six children to Alberta, Canada, from Pocatello, Idaho in 1899. They first came overland via Cardston, after receiving a letter from Charles Ora Card, encouraging them to do so. Heber, a carpenter, helped build the head gates near Kimball, and south of Magrath, and the flumes all along the main irrigation canal. At Magrath, he built a two-room house for the canal company near the headgates. After the main construction was over, his family lived there until he moved them a half mile north into the village. Heber later added on to his residence, making it the first two-story home in Magrath. The Harrison’s were known as honest people who lived in harmony with their neighbours and with the Church. Capitolia was an energetic worker, said to be an excellent cook by the many threshing crews her food helped to sustain. She raised canaries, and for many years was the secretary/treasurer of the Relief Society in Magrath. (Sources: Magrath Museum, Doug Harker Memories, FamilySearch).
Heber Harrison home, first 2-story house in Magrath, located on 2 Ave. S.,
along the north side of the street, halfway between the lane and 2nd St W.
Heber Chase Harrison & Mary Capitolia Bierdneau 27 May 2022
Heber Harrison (44) and Capitolia Bierdneau (Bierdman) brought their family of six children to Alberta, Canada, from Pocatello, Idaho in 1899. They first came overland via Cardston, after receiving a letter from Charles Ora Card, encouraging them to do so. Heber, a carpenter, helped build the head gates near Kimball, and south of Magrath, and the flumes all along the main irrigation canal. At Magrath, he built a two-room house for the canal company near the headgates. After the main construction was over, his family lived there until he moved them a half mile north into the village. Heber later added on to his residence, making it the first two-story home in Magrath. The Harrison’s were known as honest people who lived in harmony with their neighbours and with the Church. Capitolia was an energetic worker, said to be an excellent cook by the many threshing crews her food helped to sustain. She raised canaries, and for many years was the secretary/treasurer of the Relief Society in Magrath. (Sources: Magrath Museum, Doug Harker Memories, FamilySearch).
Heber Harrison home, first 2-story house in Magrath, located on 2 Ave. S.,
along the north side of the street, halfway between the lane and 2nd St W.
Early Pioneers in Magrath
Carlos Vivian (Charlie) Harris & Minerva Thomas 27 May 2022
Carlos (Charlie) Harris (33) and Minerva Thomas came to Magrath in 1903 from Lehi, Utah. Charlie saw this as a land of opportunity, farming SW of the village. The Harris’ brought their six children, with another five born later. Although arriving after the main irrigation canal had been constructed, there was still plenty of pioneering work to do. Minerva at first lived in a home with no running water and only a coal stove for heat. Minerva was known as a great cook, her cinnamon buns, puddings, and pies being especially tasty. Charlie, interested in music, helped organize the town’s first brass band. He was a peddler (rural salesman) for the Raleigh Company, using horse and buggy to do so for 10 years. Later in life, Charlie was a caretaker for the Magrath 2nd Ward chapel and took care of the small, memorial town park (cnr Main & 1st Ave S.), where the post office now stands. He lived to be 100 years old. (Sources: Magrath Museum, FamilySearch).
Carlos V. (Charlie) Harris family (L-R): back—Raymond, Iva, Ervin, Leroy, Darrel, Zelpha; front—George Leonard, Warren S., Carlos Vivian (father), Rolla D., Minerva Thomas, Zella Mae, Thomas Earl.
Carlos Vivian (Charlie) Harris & Minerva Thomas 27 May 2022
Carlos (Charlie) Harris (33) and Minerva Thomas came to Magrath in 1903 from Lehi, Utah. Charlie saw this as a land of opportunity, farming SW of the village. The Harris’ brought their six children, with another five born later. Although arriving after the main irrigation canal had been constructed, there was still plenty of pioneering work to do. Minerva at first lived in a home with no running water and only a coal stove for heat. Minerva was known as a great cook, her cinnamon buns, puddings, and pies being especially tasty. Charlie, interested in music, helped organize the town’s first brass band. He was a peddler (rural salesman) for the Raleigh Company, using horse and buggy to do so for 10 years. Later in life, Charlie was a caretaker for the Magrath 2nd Ward chapel and took care of the small, memorial town park (cnr Main & 1st Ave S.), where the post office now stands. He lived to be 100 years old. (Sources: Magrath Museum, FamilySearch).
Carlos V. (Charlie) Harris family (L-R): back—Raymond, Iva, Ervin, Leroy, Darrel, Zelpha; front—George Leonard, Warren S., Carlos Vivian (father), Rolla D., Minerva Thomas, Zella Mae, Thomas Earl.
Early Pioneers of Magrath
Benjamin Matkin and Ellen ‘Nellie’ Burns 03 June 2022
Benjamin ‘Benji’ Matkin may have come to Canada (Cardston, Alberta) with his father, Samuel Matkin, as early as 1887. By 1899, Benji (28) was married to Ellen Burns, and they had two children. Ellen was one of the orphaned twins that her older sister, Martha Burns, had raised as her own child. So, when Martha’s husband, Levi Harker, was called by the Church to move from Cardston to Magrath (thirty miles east), to become the first bishop there, the Matkin’s went along. Benjamin traded his land in Cardston (nearby Aetna), for land in Magrath. There, active in local dramatics, Ben was chairman of the Amusement Committee for many years. He was also active in other community affairs. Ellen, affectionately known as ‘Aunt Nellie,’ served everyone and was loved by all. (Sources: Magrath Museum, FamilySearch).
Benjamin Matkin and Ellen ‘Nellie’ Burns 03 June 2022
Benjamin ‘Benji’ Matkin may have come to Canada (Cardston, Alberta) with his father, Samuel Matkin, as early as 1887. By 1899, Benji (28) was married to Ellen Burns, and they had two children. Ellen was one of the orphaned twins that her older sister, Martha Burns, had raised as her own child. So, when Martha’s husband, Levi Harker, was called by the Church to move from Cardston to Magrath (thirty miles east), to become the first bishop there, the Matkin’s went along. Benjamin traded his land in Cardston (nearby Aetna), for land in Magrath. There, active in local dramatics, Ben was chairman of the Amusement Committee for many years. He was also active in other community affairs. Ellen, affectionately known as ‘Aunt Nellie,’ served everyone and was loved by all. (Sources: Magrath Museum, FamilySearch).
Early Pioneers of Magrath
Jedediah H.C.G. Kimball & Elenor O.M. Lufkin 27 May 2022
The son of prominent Church leader Heber C. Kimball, Jedediah (45) came to Canada at the turn of the 20th century (perhaps 1899), as the result of a call issued by Church President Lorenzo Snow. The couple and their six children travelled overland by wagon from SE Idaho/NE Utah (near Bear Lake) to Cardston, Alberta. Elenor drove a team of horses the entire way. Soon after, the family made their home in Magrath. They built and operated a hotel and a confectionery. After a few years of pioneering, most members of the family relocated to the state of Oregon in the United States. (Sources: Magrath Museum, FamilySearch).
Elenor O.M. Lufkin and Jedediah H.C.G. Kimball.
Jedediah H.C.G. Kimball & Elenor O.M. Lufkin 27 May 2022
The son of prominent Church leader Heber C. Kimball, Jedediah (45) came to Canada at the turn of the 20th century (perhaps 1899), as the result of a call issued by Church President Lorenzo Snow. The couple and their six children travelled overland by wagon from SE Idaho/NE Utah (near Bear Lake) to Cardston, Alberta. Elenor drove a team of horses the entire way. Soon after, the family made their home in Magrath. They built and operated a hotel and a confectionery. After a few years of pioneering, most members of the family relocated to the state of Oregon in the United States. (Sources: Magrath Museum, FamilySearch).
Elenor O.M. Lufkin and Jedediah H.C.G. Kimball.
Early Pioneers of Magrath
Levi Harker & Martha Burns 19 May 2022
In 1899, Levi Harker (34) and his wife Martha were called by the Church to move to their young family to Magrath from nearby Cardston, Alberta. He was the first bishop of the Magrath Ward, a position he filled for 32 years. Known as the ‘Father of Magrath’, Levi was an active member of the community. When the village became a town, he was the first mayor, serving two terms. Levi was a well-tempered, wise, and just man. He is remembered as a good boxer and wrestler, as well as being a crack shot with a rifle. His wife, Martha, was known for her spotless house, her tremendous cooking, and her good-natured personality. Born in Derbyshire, England in 1863, she had come to Utah as a sixteen-year-old and only lived there a few years before immigrating to Canada. She died in Magrath in 1937, just two years before her husband. (Sources: Magrath Museum, FamilySearch).
Levi Harker family (L-R): back—Martha Burns, Linnus¸ Levi, Charles; front—James,
Mabel, Orin (infant), Earl, Nephi.
Levi Harker & Martha Burns 19 May 2022
In 1899, Levi Harker (34) and his wife Martha were called by the Church to move to their young family to Magrath from nearby Cardston, Alberta. He was the first bishop of the Magrath Ward, a position he filled for 32 years. Known as the ‘Father of Magrath’, Levi was an active member of the community. When the village became a town, he was the first mayor, serving two terms. Levi was a well-tempered, wise, and just man. He is remembered as a good boxer and wrestler, as well as being a crack shot with a rifle. His wife, Martha, was known for her spotless house, her tremendous cooking, and her good-natured personality. Born in Derbyshire, England in 1863, she had come to Utah as a sixteen-year-old and only lived there a few years before immigrating to Canada. She died in Magrath in 1937, just two years before her husband. (Sources: Magrath Museum, FamilySearch).
Levi Harker family (L-R): back—Martha Burns, Linnus¸ Levi, Charles; front—James,
Mabel, Orin (infant), Earl, Nephi.
Early Pioneers of Magrath
Henry Thomas Hillier & Elizabeth Perkins 27 May 2022
Henry Thomas Hillier (35) was called by the Church in 1899 to go from Montpelier, Idaho to work on the Southern Alberta Irrigation Project in Magrath, Alberta, Canada. He left a comfortable home and his wife and four young children behind, to go and prepare a place for them. But Elizabeth was anxious to join her husband, so, she sold what she could not take, and with her children, journeyed to Magrath by train that fall. Another child, Erma, was born two years later. That first winter, due to illness, Henry had been unable to complete a house and the family had to live in a tent. According to the children, it was very cold, with strong winds. They recall being tucked under the covers, with their father tying a rope around the bed to prevent the quilts from blowing off during the night. The Hilliers had a farm and were very active in the Church and the community. Elizabeth Perkins is remembered for her expert needlework, and for her repeated involvement in sewing and preparing burial clothing for the dead, long before it was commonly available in the stores. (Sources: Magrath Museum, FamilySearch).
Henry T. Hillier family (L-R): Mildred Amy, Henry Thomas (father), George William (baby), Jesse Emmeline, Hannah Elizabeth Perkins (mother), Annie Laverne.
Henry Thomas Hillier & Elizabeth Perkins 27 May 2022
Henry Thomas Hillier (35) was called by the Church in 1899 to go from Montpelier, Idaho to work on the Southern Alberta Irrigation Project in Magrath, Alberta, Canada. He left a comfortable home and his wife and four young children behind, to go and prepare a place for them. But Elizabeth was anxious to join her husband, so, she sold what she could not take, and with her children, journeyed to Magrath by train that fall. Another child, Erma, was born two years later. That first winter, due to illness, Henry had been unable to complete a house and the family had to live in a tent. According to the children, it was very cold, with strong winds. They recall being tucked under the covers, with their father tying a rope around the bed to prevent the quilts from blowing off during the night. The Hilliers had a farm and were very active in the Church and the community. Elizabeth Perkins is remembered for her expert needlework, and for her repeated involvement in sewing and preparing burial clothing for the dead, long before it was commonly available in the stores. (Sources: Magrath Museum, FamilySearch).
Henry T. Hillier family (L-R): Mildred Amy, Henry Thomas (father), George William (baby), Jesse Emmeline, Hannah Elizabeth Perkins (mother), Annie Laverne.
Early Pioneers of Magrath
James Arthur Meldrum and Beatrice Naylor 03 June 2022
James Meldrum (23) came to Magrath from Provo, Utah in 1899, as part of a small wagon train. He had received a call from the Church to help settle Southern Alberta, Canada and left a comfortable existence attending Brigham Young ‘college’ behind. He drove his wagon along with the Andrew Allan Watson family and others. Within a year of his arrival, James married Beatrice Naylor, the daughter of George and Isabella Naylor, who had come to live in Magrath about the same time. The Meldrum’s later raised a family of eight children. James spent his first summer working on the irrigation canal. Then, with the money he earned, he bought 160 acres of farmland, three miles due south of the village. In constructing the canal and later as a farmer, James walked many miles behind a team, pulling a single plow. Politically, he was actively involved in the United Farmers of Alberta. (Sources: Magrath Museum, FamilySearch).
Beatrice Naylor and James A. Meldrum.
James Arthur Meldrum and Beatrice Naylor 03 June 2022
James Meldrum (23) came to Magrath from Provo, Utah in 1899, as part of a small wagon train. He had received a call from the Church to help settle Southern Alberta, Canada and left a comfortable existence attending Brigham Young ‘college’ behind. He drove his wagon along with the Andrew Allan Watson family and others. Within a year of his arrival, James married Beatrice Naylor, the daughter of George and Isabella Naylor, who had come to live in Magrath about the same time. The Meldrum’s later raised a family of eight children. James spent his first summer working on the irrigation canal. Then, with the money he earned, he bought 160 acres of farmland, three miles due south of the village. In constructing the canal and later as a farmer, James walked many miles behind a team, pulling a single plow. Politically, he was actively involved in the United Farmers of Alberta. (Sources: Magrath Museum, FamilySearch).
Beatrice Naylor and James A. Meldrum.
Early Pioneers of Magrath
Ammon Mercer and Sarah Amelia Shelly 04 June 2022
In 1899, Ammon Mercer (40) and his family were called by the Church to assist in the colonization of the district around Magrath, Alberta, Canada. Living in nearby Cardston, the family had come to that settlement two years earlier from Utah, with their five (or six) children. An additional child was born in Magrath. Ammon was to be first Counselor to the new bishop, Levi Harker. Ammon was the first postmaster in Magrath, driving the stagecoach between Lethbridge and Cardston. He was one of the early organizers and shareholders of the Magrath Trading Company. The Mercer’s had a big red barn and possessed a good well, charging 15 cents a barrel for the sale of their water. During those early days, Sarah’s home was referred to by the Mercer men as the ‘King Hotel.’ She was a hospitable woman and when her home was pressed into service, her household floors and even the tables were used as beds. She was known as “one of Magrath’s best-loved women,” a person of fine taste, having a cultured mind. (Sources: Magrath Museum, FamilySearch).
Ammon Mercer family (L-R): back--Mary Ellen, Ammon Julian, Jared Alma, Sarah Amelia Shelly; front—James Lee, Ammon Mercer (father), Emma Elizabeth, Sarah, Alberta Maude (inset).
Ammon Mercer and Sarah Amelia Shelly 04 June 2022
In 1899, Ammon Mercer (40) and his family were called by the Church to assist in the colonization of the district around Magrath, Alberta, Canada. Living in nearby Cardston, the family had come to that settlement two years earlier from Utah, with their five (or six) children. An additional child was born in Magrath. Ammon was to be first Counselor to the new bishop, Levi Harker. Ammon was the first postmaster in Magrath, driving the stagecoach between Lethbridge and Cardston. He was one of the early organizers and shareholders of the Magrath Trading Company. The Mercer’s had a big red barn and possessed a good well, charging 15 cents a barrel for the sale of their water. During those early days, Sarah’s home was referred to by the Mercer men as the ‘King Hotel.’ She was a hospitable woman and when her home was pressed into service, her household floors and even the tables were used as beds. She was known as “one of Magrath’s best-loved women,” a person of fine taste, having a cultured mind. (Sources: Magrath Museum, FamilySearch).
Ammon Mercer family (L-R): back--Mary Ellen, Ammon Julian, Jared Alma, Sarah Amelia Shelly; front—James Lee, Ammon Mercer (father), Emma Elizabeth, Sarah, Alberta Maude (inset).
Early Pioneers of Magrath
George Naylor & Isabella Insley 04 June 2022
George Naylor (47) was called by the Church in 1899 to come to Magrath, Alberta, Canada to help build up the country. He and his wife, Isabella Insley and several of their eight surviving children made the trip overland with teams of horses, stock, and the tools of his trade—a blacksmith. The Church assigned the Naylor family to one of the first six houses small houses that it had built in the village. As a blacksmith, George won considerable esteem for his work. He was a man of honourable method and strict integrity. He built a workshop of clapboard, tearing apart his hay wagon to secure the wood needed for a roof. The ceiling and walls were then covered with tarpaper. It was the first business building constructed in the village. George was also interested in farming, having purchased land near Magrath. (Sources: Magrath Museum, FamilySearch).
Isabella Insley and George Naylor.
George Naylor & Isabella Insley 04 June 2022
George Naylor (47) was called by the Church in 1899 to come to Magrath, Alberta, Canada to help build up the country. He and his wife, Isabella Insley and several of their eight surviving children made the trip overland with teams of horses, stock, and the tools of his trade—a blacksmith. The Church assigned the Naylor family to one of the first six houses small houses that it had built in the village. As a blacksmith, George won considerable esteem for his work. He was a man of honourable method and strict integrity. He built a workshop of clapboard, tearing apart his hay wagon to secure the wood needed for a roof. The ceiling and walls were then covered with tarpaper. It was the first business building constructed in the village. George was also interested in farming, having purchased land near Magrath. (Sources: Magrath Museum, FamilySearch).
Isabella Insley and George Naylor.
Early Pioneers of Magrath
Alma Davis Pierson & Sarah Jane Williams 04 Jun 2022
In 1899, Al Pierson (22) was called by the Church to go to Southern Alberta to help build an irrigation canal. This call came just before he was to be married in the fall. To accommodate matters, he and Sarah Williams were married earlier than planned, in the Logan Utah temple, before moving north into an “unknown territory.” They were strenuously dissuaded from leaving SE Idaho by family concerned about them surviving the “harsh Canadian winter,” who felt this might be the last time they ever saw them again. Yet the Pierson’s viewed this to be the “same thing as being called on a mission,” later referring to the trek as their honeymoon trip. Sarah kept a detailed account of the overland journey of more than eight weeks via horse and wagon, travelling largely in company with three other families. Once in Magrath, something she agreed was “the bald-headed prairie,” they moved a shack onto a lot in late October. On Christmas Eve, a strong wind accompanying a blizzard tore the roof off the nearby Hillier tent. That family and their canary stayed overnight with the Pierson’s. But the next morning there was no canary, because the Pierson’s had not put out their cat! (Sources: Magrath Museum, FamilySearch).
Sarah J. Williams Al D. Pierson
Alma Davis Pierson & Sarah Jane Williams 04 Jun 2022
In 1899, Al Pierson (22) was called by the Church to go to Southern Alberta to help build an irrigation canal. This call came just before he was to be married in the fall. To accommodate matters, he and Sarah Williams were married earlier than planned, in the Logan Utah temple, before moving north into an “unknown territory.” They were strenuously dissuaded from leaving SE Idaho by family concerned about them surviving the “harsh Canadian winter,” who felt this might be the last time they ever saw them again. Yet the Pierson’s viewed this to be the “same thing as being called on a mission,” later referring to the trek as their honeymoon trip. Sarah kept a detailed account of the overland journey of more than eight weeks via horse and wagon, travelling largely in company with three other families. Once in Magrath, something she agreed was “the bald-headed prairie,” they moved a shack onto a lot in late October. On Christmas Eve, a strong wind accompanying a blizzard tore the roof off the nearby Hillier tent. That family and their canary stayed overnight with the Pierson’s. But the next morning there was no canary, because the Pierson’s had not put out their cat! (Sources: Magrath Museum, FamilySearch).
Sarah J. Williams Al D. Pierson
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