Trying out a potential new series with this entry. This one is almost like a set of minutes; other letters will be more personal. If there’s a particular mission or period you’d like to hear from, tell me and I’ll see if I can find something.

T.C. Flat, Feb. 15th, 1897

Our Conference commenced with a Priesthood meeting at the home of Brother Higdon and concluded with another in the parlors of our friend Mr. Gagman. A number of public meetings were held in the district school house, the trustees giving us control of the same during our sojourn in the locality. A kindly competition was entered with y our friends in their efforts to outdo each other in kindness toward the elders. After each session of our most interesting meetings, the Elders were taken to the homes of the various friends in order that all might become acquainted.

In connection with the various subjects spoken on by the elders of this particular conference Elder Andrew Kimball, president of the mission, gave a lecture on the Gospel, illustrating the same on a black-board extending across the hall. The house was filled to its full extent and judging by the remarks of satisfaction, the lecture will do considerable good. In company with Elder Kimball was Elder John M. Knight, assistant secretary, of the mission, who also took an active part in the public meetings. Elder Kirkman’s sweet tenor voice singing the songs of Zion was greatly appreciated by all those who were so fortunate as to be present.

A box supper was afterwards given, partly in honor of the elders, and to use their ability while here. It was one of the most interesting entertainments that ever had been given in these parts. Elder B.D. Nebeker was master of ceremonies; and one who witnessed the demonstrations would certainly be convinced that the numbers given by the Elders were well received. There were mandolin and guitar duets by Elders Nebeker and Kirkman, solos by Elder Kirkman and the comic and pathetic recitations of Elder Knight and Elder Kimball. But the most interesting and beneficial of all was the fast and testimony meeting, the striking feature being the power with which the Holy Ghost was poured out upon our Elders when each one stood up and bore a powerful testimony of the truthfulness to the work they were engaged in. It was the first time some here had felt the burning impression of that divine influence which accompanies all who will comply with the glorious truth brought forth through the Prophet Joseph Smith.

The following Elders are laboring in the Oklahoma Conference: –

John J. Gallacher, Charles M. Holmes, Franklin Raleigh, George V. Morris, Jr., Thomas G. Naylor, Charles H. Robison, John M. Kearns, Even Evanson, William Spillmor, Wells Hess, John A. Eardley, our conference president, and B.D. Nebeker, our conference secretary.

After a hearty shake of the hand and “a God bless you,” we separated, going to our respective fields of labor, with the determination to travel without purse or scrip and with a full assurance that God would administer to His servants. May the prayers of the Saints be offered up in our behalf that we may enjoy health and have the Holy Spirit to be with us continually is the wish of all Elders of the Oklahoma Conference.

BYRON D. NEBEKER
Secretary