11 memowjiE Eldreii Mnm (Ubite, mtt iaiiiel Offora. / f ' Ci^y^^PtaJ IaMvcZ^^ A MEMORIAL TO ELDRESS ANNA WHITE, AND ELDER DANIEL OFFORD, 0^ By LEILA S. TAYLOR. MOUNT LEBANON, N. Y. r NORTH FAMILY OF SHAKERS. 1912. Copyright, 1912, BY North Family of Shakers. ELDRESS ANNA WHITE. MEMORIAL OF ELDRESS ANNA WHITE. A CENTER of high thought and pure living, exist- ing in America since 1774, is found in an or- ganized community, whose basic principle is the life of purity and self-sacrifice, embodying and reflecting the Christ-life and the Christ Spirit. A member of this communistic order during sixty-two of her almost eighty years, amenable to its discipline, exemplifying its principles and embodying its spirit, ELDRESS ANNA WHITE, of Mount Lebanon, is a worthy exponent of that manifestation of Divine Motherhood known as Shakerism. The White family brought from Old to New England many of its best elements. Elder John White, a parish- ioner of the Rev. Thomas Hooker, from Chelmsford, Essex County, landing with his family at Boston, Septem- ber i6th, 1632. He settled on or near the site of Gore Hall, Harvard University, served as one of the seven first selectmen of Cambridge and four years later was with the one hundred, who journeyed afoot through the wilderness to the Connecticut River and founded the city of Hartford. At Hartford, Hadley, Northampton and Boston, Elder John White's judicial and religious ability and leadership were wrought into the structure and life of Massachusetts and Connecticut. a Eldress Anna White. His sterling qualities were transmitted to his des- cendants, of whom four generations resided at Middle- town, Connecticut. Calvin, youngest son of Deacon Moses White, born at Middletown in 1762, a graduate of Yale University, married Phebe Camp, daughter of Rachel and Capt. Nathaniel Camp, of Newark, New Jer- sey. A Presbyterian and then an Episcopalian clergy- man, he finally embraced the Roman Catholic faith and, after the death of his wife, studied for but did not enter its priesthood. The book "John White and his Des- cendants," Hartford, i860, says of him: "A devoted and accomplished scholar, he was one of the few who loved and thoroughly mastered the Hebrew tongue. In politics, he was a tory: and he never failed to refer to the war of the Revolution as 'the Rebellion.' iHe never voted in his life." He died at the age of ninety, in Derby, Connecticut, where he had formerly ministered for many years in the Protestant Episcopal Church. Of the seven sons of Calvin and Phebe White, all successful business men, Chandler was the most widely known as a promoter of the Atlantic Cable, associated with Cyrus Field, President and Director of the com- pany exploiting that enterprise ; and a prominent member of the New York Chamber of Commerce. Robert, the eldest, was born at Hanover, New Jersey, December ist, 1792. Inheriting his father's independence in religious thought, he became known in early manhood as a "most estimable young Quaker." On the 9th of April, 1818, in Friends Meeting, at Liberty Street, New York, he was married to Hannah Gibbs, of a prominent Quaker family. Daughter of Abel and Elizabeth Gibbs, her Quaker antecedents date back to the time of William Penn. Born July ist, 1795, Hannah Gibbs was brought up by an uncle, John Corlies, also a Quaker. On the Seashorx. 3 II THE fifth child and youngest daughter of Robert and Hannah White was Anna, born January 2lSt, 1831. Their residence, a pretty, white cottage, stood in a large green field at the corner of Orange and Willow streets, Brooklyn. Anna nearly lost ihcr birthright at the very beginning of her career, her father first discovering faint signs of life in the discarded infant and coming to her rescue. A feeble, wailing crea- ture, she made more trouble than all the other children. Her mother took her to the seashore in New Jersey, where she made acquaintance with old Ocean and, in the arms of the big man who had her in charge, would laugh and crow with delight as the friendly waves dashed over her. The Atlantic became her nurse, entered into her very being and saved the little one for a long and active life. When Anna was two years old, Robert White retired from business and purchased a farm on the New Jersey coast. In the country home at Shrewsbury, Anna and her brother John, four years younger, spent a happy child- hood. John, a handsome, lovable lad, was quite unlike his strong-willed, restless sister, but the two children were devoted to each other. A frequent playmate was Eric Parmley; another, a spruce little chap, was cousin Dick, son of Richard Mansfield White. Better known as Richard Grant White, cousin Dick was often at the New Jersey farm. A donkey. Jack, neighbor Eric's pony, dogs, cats, calves, chickens, figure in the sports of this I>eriod, but Ocean was the great playfellow. Whenever a party of guests visited the beach, intent on bathing, they were astonished to see the two children, who loved to dart ahead, already bobbing up and down, far out in the surf. They attended school some distance from home, boarding through the week with a Quaker family where they received motherly care. "Every Friday night, Fatiier 4 Eldress Anna White. would come for us and Mother would have an extra good supper, generally of chicken, for us hungry chil- dren." No animals were killed on the farm, creatures destined for food being carried away. One day, walk- ing with her mother in the city, Anna saw a wagon- load of young calves and began an inquiry as to their destination. Informed that they were to be converted into veal, a favorite viand, her grief was extreme and she expressed a determination, to which she adhered, never to taste veal again. In the home was a dear old grandmother, Elizabeth Gibbs. It was a great delight to the mischievous children to get grandma to spell her name, — "E-1-i-izzard-a-b-e-t-h." Many happy hours were spent by her side and, at any c^hildish mishap, "Now, child, what did thee do that for?" was her first query. In the Shaker home, when Anna White was approaching the years of this aged grand- mother, if some impulsive spirit had fallen into difficulty, how often would she say, with a twinkle in the keen, blue eyes, "Now, child, what did thee do that for?" The oldest living son, for the first child, Abel, had died in infancy, was Robert Cornell, commonly called by his middle name. Eight years her senior, generous and sympathetic, Brother Cornell was Anna's protector and, like her, was devoted to their mother. Born during their parents' temporary residence in Birmingham, England, he came midway between two sisters. An ideal elder sister to the group of high-spirited, affectionate children, Phebe was a second mother to Anna, helping the little girl over many a hard place. Rachel, good, sensible and kind, was very fond of her little sister, who warmly re- turned her affection. A frequent member of the family was Aunt Sarah, Robert's only sister, a sweet and noble woman, gratefully remembered. As with most children, in homes where the Bible is revered and loved, underneath fun and frolic rose the tide of religious thought and feeling. Trained to obey Inspiration FkoH Lucxbtxa Motv. $ thdr parents, it is easy for children to obey God. Loving the law of kindness and self-sacrifice, manifested through the life of God-fearing parents, it is natural to recognire the love of the All Father. The blessing at table, the hour of family worship, were remembered with gratitude. The White Children attended Quaker meeting, sitting through the long, quiet service with what patience they might. The restless Anna was often comforted by the broad lap of her mother, which soothed her to slumber when the tired head grew too heavy. But very early, Anna took an active interest in proceedings, not always of the silent order. Lucretia Mott was sometimes pres- ent and, a moved to speak, the child listened fascinated. One First Day, Anna heard Lucretia Mott abruptly silenced by the guardians of Quaker orthodoxy. On the way home, she asked, — "Mother, why did they stop Lu- cretia Mott from speaking?" "Well, cliild, what she said was not in accordance with the ideas of the leaders in meeting." "But why. Mother, I love to hear her the best of all?" "Well, child, thee will understand when thee is older." It is doubtful if Anna White ever understood why a woman should be silenced in meeting, or why any honest truth-seeker should be forbidden to utter the thought that is in him. How much that scene may have influenced the after-life of the little girl cannot be known, but she ever had a deep reverence for Lucretia Mott and an en- thusiasm for freedom of thought and speech. A Methodist society worshipped in a small, plain meeting-house near by, and Sabbath evenings, Anna and John were fond of attending Methodist prayer meetings. The Millerite excitement of the early 40's ran high at Shrewsbury, many of the neighbors abandoning their property, that they might be prepared to meet their Lord. Robert White, in his calm, benevolent fashion, quietly bought up or gathered in cattle, horses and other movable effects of these excited people, and, when the fateful night -6 Eldress Anna White. had passed and the bewildered religionists returned to their dismantled homes, to resume their wonted occupa- tions, their Quaker neighbor was at hand, restoring with- out charge animals and implements they had thrown away. In after years, Anna often related the story of that- night. She had listened to the arguments and ex- hortations of devoted Millerites in Methodist meetings, had heard the calm, sensible views of her Quaker parents and friends, but a child's superstitious fear was inten- sified by a deep, black cloud which overspread the heavens, — a. portent full of dread. Her father was away, she sat with her mother on the veranda. '^O' Mother, does thee think the Millerites may be right, after all, and the end of the world is coming?" "Nay, child," replied her mother, "it is only a thunder- storm. The end of the world is not at hand, thee need not fear." The tempest that followed was always referred to as the worst she ever experienced. Among the neighbors was a Baker family, distantly related. In 1844, Phebe White married George C. Baker, and three years later Rachel married the brother, Joseph, while the same day, Cornell was married to their sister, Hannah D. Baker. From the marriage of Phebe came one of the strongest ties that bound Anna to her home. A little girl, named Hanna, was added to the circle, whom Anna loved and petted with adoring devotion. A great trial of her girlhood was that she never had a new dress. Quaker thrift and the excellent ma- terials of the time produced gowns of such quality that, when Phebe and Rachel were through with them, enough always remained to make a pretty frock for their little sister. One day in her sixteenth year, her mother said, "Anna, if thee will help me take care of the hens and chickens this summer, I will give thee half the profits and thee can have a new dress." Anna took hold of the poultry business and early and late looked after her big family of chickens with such faithful care that the biddies Off to Boahding-School. 7 were unusually prosperous, and, in good time, she had the pleasure of buying a handsome silk dress, a piece of which is still cherished in her Shaker home. The district school had done its best for the White children and Anna was sent with Rachel to a Friends Boarding School at Poughkeepsie, known as the Mansion Square Seminary and presided over by Mr. William Gib- bons. It was her first separation from home. A deathly homesickness took .possession of her, she could not study, she could not eat nor sleep. All attempts at divers'ion, reasoning or sympathy failed. Rachel was at her wits' end, the child was crying herself sick. At last, she wrote home and Robert started for Poughkeepsie and appeared at Mansion Square. Summoned to meet her father, Anna felt sure of his sympathy and expected to be restored to her lost home. But, nay! "Daughter Anna" was treated to a course of paternal logic, was assured that she was expected to appreciate the advantages offered her and improve her opportunity for education to the best of her ability. The crying stopped and the homesick child be- came the eager student, her quick, inquiring mind awaken- ing to the delights of study. Natural science, grammar, literature and history were her delight. Her textbook in astronomy, a thin volume with steel engravings, published in Boston in 1838, is a commentary on her neat and care- ful habits. Devoid of stain or wrinkle, covered with brown cambric carefully stitched on, it bears the inscription. "Anna Wliite, 1846." In after-life, she loved to talk of this science and its wonderful revealings, — eager to learn of each new discovery, each wider outlook. From school routine, custom set her free much earlier than would happen to-day. At an age when the modern girl is entering upon her preparation for college or uni- versity, Anna returned to her home in New York City and, in accordance with Quaker custom, was given her choice of a trade. A highly respectable employment for women was tailoring, and in her eighteenth year, under 9 £u>nfeS8 Anita Whiic th« guidance of a skilled tailoress, Anna, learned that trade. She enjoyed many social advantages. Their home was frequented by thinkers and philanthropists, its doors open to preachers and elders of the Quaker faith. Her quick sympathies were enlisted in relief of the dis- tress found in the city and she was trained in systematic benevolence by her mother, the almoner appointed by the Quaker society to distribute relief to the poor of the church. Not only were the suffering of her own faith cared for by the benevolent Quakeress, but many abodes of poverty were relieved from her own stores. Anna accompanied her mother on these errands of mercy and thus became familiar with the sadder side of city Uf«. Ill SHAKERISM early became a factor in the family life. After the break in the Quaker church in 1827, Robert, a Hicksite Quaker, followed hi« natural bent toward independent thinking. Among the people with whom he dealt in his business of hard- ware merchant, he met certain grave, serious men, wear- ing a distinctive dress and noted for their honesty. Robert and Hannah often visited the Shakers, attracted by their neatness, simplicity and integrity. When Anna was six months old, her parents stopped at Hancock, on their way by carriage to Quaker Quarterly Meeting at Hudson, New York. An aged Shakeress, known as Mother Lucy Miller, coming into the room, took the baby in her arms, exclaiming in a prophetic manner, "This child is an Israelite indeed !" Robert became interested in the Shaker faith, whose peculiar tenets, expounded by clear-thinking leaders, ap- pealed to him as sensible spiritual interpretations of rtr*- Robert White a Convert. 9 lation. Finding therein the logical sequence to the Quaker faith accepted in earlier manhood, he became a Shaker, uniting with the society at Hancock, Massachusetts, and adopting the celibate life, the foundation stone of Shaker- ism. To Hannah White, this action of her husband was the subversion of every principle of right, — the betrayal of religious faith. While she honored his intellectual ability and trusted his integrity and purity of purpose, she felt that he had been misled and deceived. In ac- cordance with Shaker usage, when his wife could not follow him, Robert did not separate from her further than to adhere to the essential principles of his faith. Hannah was, henceforth, his sister in Christ. This re- lation was almost as abhorrent to her as if he had divorced her altogether. The grief and opposition aroused was not allowed to cause an open rupture. Robert went to his Shaker home, often visited by Hannah or the children, then, returning, would spend an equal time with his family. He could not countenance marriage and the children were married away from home, while restraint in expressions of natural affection showed the effects of Shaker discipline. He was generous with his Shaker relations, and, while careful to obey every requirement of the communistic home, added many a touch of comfort to its appointments and enlargement to its industrial outlook. He imported the locust, valuable for posts and timber, planting groves and lining highways with this beautiful tree. He did much to aid in publishing and distributing Shaker litera- ture. At one time, he brought to Hancock three little girls whom he knew, orphan children, who, growing up in the faith, became heads of the three families, beloved and honored by all who know them. Anna and John often visited at Hancock, playing in the old bams and sunny fields as happily as on their New Jersey farm. Anna gathered to the kind Shaker sisters, learned to love their sweet songs and to enjoy lo Eldkess Anna White. the spiritual meetings, whose zeal and devotion awakened to new life her religious feelings. Reminiscences of aged Believers were listened to and, little by little, in the heart of the Quaker girl, arose a love for the Shaker sister- hood, a thoughtful weighing of two religious systems, hardly to be looked for in so young a girl, save by those who, underneath the winsomeness of Anna White, could read her capacity for self-denial and devotion to truth. As Anna neared her eighteenth birthday, Robert real- ized that the opposition among his older children had begun to affect Anna's feelings. He addressed to her, in a long and touching letter, a statement of his faith, his generous plans of provision for his family and his desire that she might impartially observe the workings of his faith in the home of his adoption, opening his father's heart in a way that could but appeal to her sense of justice and strong filial affection. Its pages are too sacred for publication, but it contains these words, the key to a very marked characteristic of Anna White's after-life: "I covet for thee, my daughter, a glorious freedom from the shackles of other people's opinions, an independence of all save the approbation of thy own con- science; breaking the bands of pride and prejudice and acting as if responsible to thy Maker, conscious of His presence." As opposition grew to actual persecution, Anna's deep, soulful eyes became wells of sympathy and determination in which Robert White read the truth that his youngest daughter alone of all his family stood with him. As her leaning toward her father's faith became known, every effort was exerted to win her back. Her great love for her mother, for Phebe and Rachel, for Cornell and John, for the little Hanna, now a sweet, precocious child of four years, were as so many bands of steel binding the affectionate girl to her home. A bachelor uncle on the mother's side, possessed of large wealth, had already Anna Comes to Lebanon. ii designated his favorite niece as his intended heir. Now, he proposed, if she would give up her Shaker schemes, to settle a large sum upon her at once, making her in- dependent, the whole property to become hers upon his death. This offer, in her young enthusiasm, she cast beneath her feet. The sterner side of Anna White's nature, hitherto unknown even to herself, her persistent obedience to conscience, the old Puritan and Quaker in her, enabled Iher to stand firm, to resist the entreaty, over-ride the opposition and govern her own deep feeling. Visits already paid to Hancock and New Lebanon were fol- lowed by another in her nineteenth year, when her father took her to four societies, that she might judge for her- self. In 1848 and 1849, the battle seems to have raged within and without Anna's soul, growing more intense as the crisis drew near, when her decision should forever seal her destiny. In the summer of 1849, Anna came to Mount Lebanon as a guest in the North Family, where Robert was a member. To the older sisters, she gathered at once in trustful simplicity, and to a young sister, about her own age, the gentle, afifectionate Eliza Rayson, she became warmly attached. A large family, by the name of Greaves, had just come, seven brothers and one little sister, delicate and sweet, the idol of them all. Upon Anna White's arrival, Ann Maria Greaves was sent to entertain the visitor. The Elder Sister, coming to look after her charges, inquired what they had been talking about. To her amusement, they frankly avowed that they had been discussing the fashions in their respective homes. She afterward told them that, because of their honesty, she felt sure she could make Shakers of them both. The friendship thus begun lasted for sixty-two years, unbroken by separation or misunderstanding; the "twin sisters," as they called themselves, devoted to each other, until that December morning, when Anna, on a bridge of early sun- 12 Eldress Anna White. beams, slipped away to the other country. This sum- mer of 1849, the solemnity of the step before them did not weigh too heavily on their spirits for them to enjoy the mirth that filled their girl natures and innocent hearts. The beautiful mountain home and the attractive scenes occupied many hours, the three friends often forgetting the dignity of their years to romp together as if chil- dren still. Before this visit ended, Anna's choice was made. Her decision is thus expressed in a letter to her father. "New Lebanon, 8 mo. 19th, 1849. "To My Kind and Affectionate Father: "According to thy desire I will now endeavor as far as my pen is able to give thee an accurate accoimt of my feelings during the few days past in which my soul has been bowed down even to the very dust and my spirits dipped as in the waters of affliction. I can now feel that thy prayers on my behalf have not been put up for naught, but that they have been answered, and in the sincerity of my heart I can say that I thank my God for giving me such a wise and good parent, who will lend a helping hand and encourage me to press forward towards the mark of my high calling, so that I may live day by day as I would wish to die, and the time has now come for me to renounce the world, to give up all the enjoy- ments that are in it and live a holy and pure life ac- ceptable to God and to His holy Angels. And O, how fervently have I prayed to Him to give me power to overcome all evil propensities, so that I might devote all my might and strength in serving Him, now while young in life, for I feel as though this was the most acceptable time ^ of offering, and by forsaking the world, what troubles, what afflictions shall I escape! "And He has at last condescended to hearken to my supplications, and by asking of Him counsel and advice to point out and show me which was the right way where- Taught Iw a Drbam. t$ in I should walk, He has granted my request in the simili- tude of a dream. It was this day week between the hours of one and two o'clock in the morning, I was aroused from a sound sleep by a rumbling sound, as of distant thunder, the earth seemed to shake and tremble at its approach, all had fled terrified and horror-stricken at the awful appearance. It threatened to sweep all before it, yet still I stood alone and unprotected, trembling, yet dared not stir : but not long did this last, it gradually died away, and in the distance could be heard singing such as never was heard by mortal ear. O how sweet, how melodious it was, as though the whole company of angels had mingled together in one united band and were offer- ing up their sweetest songs in praise and thanksgiving to their holy patron ! How inviting was the song, and they appeared to be beckoning for me to come and join with them. Still all was invisible, save a light that broke forth instantaneously as the singing ceased. It was not the dazzling brightness of the sun, but a soft and gen- tle light diffusing itself around and about the place where I was, and seemed to encircle me on every side. Words cannot express the happy feeling that I experienced ; when I awoke, a deep peace settled on my mind and things wore a cheerful aspect, nothing dark and gloomy was left, all had fled, leaving me in peace and quietness. I distinctly saw the way which had been so clearly mani- fested unto me to be opened, and I am determined to walk in it, and nothing can hinder or turn me aside. The world is a blank to me, I can leave all without a regret. I can never return to it ! Nay, never ! and although thou didst provide for me a good home and I iv^as blest with kind relations and friends, yet nothing can induce me, for what are they compared to my gos- pel relations? For these I feel a pure, heavenly, divine love, such as I never experienced before, and I hope that feeling may ever exist in time and in eternity. I have had a fair opportunity of judging for myself the 14 Elprkss Anka White. principles and manners of this 'singular people' and tKx one has ever influenced me in the least, it is my ow;n free choice and I hope it is a wise one. I can bear all the reproaches that will be cast upon me for they will be but few, and would to God they were more! The burden will be thrown I know on thee more than any one else. And in conclusion I will! say, 'Thy people shall be my people and thy God shall be my God.' In bonds of pure love* and affection, I remain as ever thy attadhed daughter, Anna White." Robert promptly replied : "2nd day morning, 8th mo. 20, 1849. "Daughter Kind and Greatly Beloved: "I am glad to own the delig'ht and comfort that thy communication of yesterday has ministered to my spirit. Thankfulness and joy abound yet not without sympathy in thy trials. But lift up thy heart to God and thy head in hope. He that hath called thee will sustain thee in every proving dispensation. Remember that a sense of dependence leads to seek protection, and that even Jesus was so stripped as to cry out to God, 'Why hast thou forsaken me?' A feelingi of hunger and want is begot- ten that we may enjoy the fullness of the bread and waters of life. Trials and temptations are permitted that we may exercise our faith and increase therein. In looking forward be not anxious, but cultivate faith and confidence, that according to the requirements of each day, so will strength be administered. Seek not to avoid conflicts, but rather for strength to meet and overcome in them. It ■ still feels to me that I should be willing for. thee to look to returning with Hannah and Phebe, with the un- derstanding that thy feelings have become attached to thy father's people and the intention of examining further into the truths of their profession and a willingness to hear and consider every objection that can be brought. CAiRE OF SmiTUAL Guides. tS Thlit in the strength of Truth thee will be no coward, btit as a simple seeker and follower of it, thou wilt hot be turned out of its paths. I would have thee re- Wemher the words of Isaiah, 'He that believeth shall not make haste.' Not that thee should lag behind; but evidence a considerate, thoughtful, prayerful course, Gideon-like, turn the fleece again and again. I have con- fidence in thy discretion and leave thee with my love and blessing. Thy ever affectionate father, Robert White, Jr." Anna complied with her father's request, returning with her mother and sister. Hannah remarked to the Elder Sisters, — "If Anna has made up her mind, thee might as well try to move East Mountain as to move her!" The next month brought a letter, breathing the love and care of spiritual guides, closing with the words, "And now, little one, we feel to commend you to the care and keeping of Him who is ever ready to hear the cries of the needy and keepeth a constant watch over the tender lambs of His fold." A letter written after her return from a visit at Watervliet, reveals the work- ings of her mind. "New York, loth mo. loth, 1849. "To Arabella Clark : "Dear Friend — After I reached home last week thy lietter was handed to me by Mother, and after reading it I feel best satisfied to comply with thy request to write to thee, for I desire to feel thankful for every expression of friendly interest in my welfare. I will now inform thee that the resolution which I have taken (hasty and inconsiderate as it may appear to thee and others) has by me been a subject of calm deliberation, and one which has occupied my mind for some length of time, sufficiently so to satisfy myself as to the course i6 Eldress Anna White. which I intend pursuing. I know it is an all-important step, but it is one that I have seriously reflected on; and it is from a sense of my responsibility to God as my Creator and my duty to myself and parents that I have made this choice, and come what may, I am de- termined not to act contrary to my conscientious views of right. Time is swiftly passing along and how neces- sary is it for every individual to yield strict obedience to the best light that is given them, and is it not right that every one should have a privilege, who have arrived at the years of understanding and are capable of judging for themselves, to make a free and independent use of their reason as regards matters of religion? Many may think that I have been deluded and led away by this singular people who are 'everywhere spoken against' Well, so be it! Let the world say what it may, I am determined, unmindful of earthly friends or foes, to per- severe in the work, that I am called to labor in. All the essential testimonies of early friends I hold to, and will strive to emulate their noble example of patient suffering reproach and derision for the truth's sake. "During the summer I had an excellent opportunity of knowing and judging for myself whether these really were the people they profess to be, and I have found it to be true, 'By their fruits ye shall know them.' So that judg- ing them by their fruits, I am compelled to acknowledge that if God has a people on the face of the earth these are they, and I long to be gathered to them; but think not that I do it without much tribulation of spirit. As to my Mother, I never before knew that I loved her so much, and my brothers and sisters never seemed more near and dear to me, so thee is mistaken if thee thinks that ray love for them has diminished, but it is the reverse. I am sensible of my obligations and duty to my Mother and am sure there is no abatement of my affec- tions for her. With respect to my Father, I would not have thee suppose that he has used any influence to Opposition From Relatives. 17 bring mc to his views, and my confidence in him is not impaired by thy remarks upon him. "If thee wishes to be informed of the principles of the Society, thee will find by candidly reading the books I send thee that the Scriptures of Truth are held by it to the fullest extent of thy recommendations, and after reading these books I will be glad to see thy objections as being contrary to the teachings of Christ and the Apostles. "Affectionately thy friend, "Anna White." To the copy of this letter is added in pencil, in her handwriting of later years, "Never received an answer." Of the final parting, it is doubtful if any recital was ever heard, save by her Elders in the Order of the gospel to which she was called. Cornell was bitter and unkind to his sister in her choice of a religious life, regarding her purpose fanatical, her choice a needless cruelty to their mother and her persistence a reprehensible ob- stinacy. Two only aside from her father had a good word to say for her. Her brother-in-law, the genial George Baker, gave his sympathy to the persecuted girl, urging his wife and the rest of the family to let her go in peace. The other was her grandfather. Rev. Calvin White, who gave her his blessing and approved her choice, bidding her Godspeed. Robert accompanied Anna to her Shaker home and, returning, had to meet the accumulated feelings of the family. He writes to Anna that he loves to think of her living in her attic room with her pleasant companions, Rhoda and Phebe. These were two sisters, older than herself, and the attic chamber with sloping sides and a high-studded end facing the north, occupied a space now lost in two large rooms. In one letter, he says: "I have taken thy plaid silk dress and put it in my valise. I looked for thy bonnet, but could not find it." A letter i8 Eldress Anna White. from grandfather Calvin contains this sentiment: "I am glad Anna has composed her mind on a subject which has given Hannah some anxiety, and I do not know why Anna should not have a right to make a choice of life as well as her sisters." The date of her entry into the North Family, the Novitiate Order of the Shaker Church, is thus recorded by herself : "Anna White, Born ist mo'th, 21st, 1831. United with Believers Tenth mo'th, i6th, 1849." Long years after, she gave expression to the fact that she was a little disappointed at the time that she had not been assigned to Hancock, where her feelings were first gathered. IV AT the head of the North Family, stood Elder Richard Bushnell and Brother Frederick W. Evans, Eldress Sarah Smith and Sister Mary Antoinette Doolittle. The next year, Eldress lS«irah was released from her position, returning to her former home in the Church Family, and Eldress An- toinette was appointed to the first place with Sister Har- riet Bullard as her associate. Anna found a close union to her Elders and entered eagerly into the family life, assisting in kitchen, bake- room, dining-room, laundry and ironing-room, washing dishes, weaving, spinning, sewing, even milking the cows, at that time the regular task for sisters, night and morn- ing. There were but few books, and those of Shaker publication, the "Millennial Church" and the "Second Ap- pearing of Christ," being the most important; no papers, rarely, a newspaper article read aloud by the Elder Brother. Little time was there for reading. Knitting was at hand when the day's task of spinning, weaving AS A VOlXi; (AMI.. Happy in Her New Life. 19 or palmleaf work was completed. In place of her father's sumptuous home, Anna now shared with from two to six others a large, plain, white-washed room, pictureless, carpetless and without ornament, sleeping two and some- times three together. Tasks were brightened by pleasant conversation, help- ful tales of earlier days and by singing, — the sweet songs of Zion, unlike any other earthly music. Anna loved those songs, and, as she pared apples or potatoes in the kitchen, learned to sing them, until the gift of song des- cended upon herself. It was a time of inspirational gifts. Songs, received by scores and hundreds, were written down with the melody beneath in the original Shaker musical notation. Then, there were the meetings, full of strong testimony and alive with spiritual gifts. Besides Sabbath services, there were meetings for singing, read- ing, testimony or exercise, while a weekly union meet- ing cultivated the social element. It was not a day when members did what seemed right in their own eyes, or proclaimed their opinions to all within the sound of their voice. There was a Lead in Zion. The law of the Lord went forth and the standard of the Gospel was to be followed. The Order of Ministry and Elders were the anointed leaders. Obedience was the keynote of the Shaker life, the straight and narrow path to regenera- tion and redemption. That Anna was contented and happy in her new life is shown by her letters. To her father, she writes : "I feel a continual increase of love the longer I remain with this happy people, and I am thankful, yea, I am sensible that it is good for me to be here, and that I have been called to renounce the world and the pleasures therein while young in life. Words are inadequate to express my thankfulness for the blessed privilege that I now enjoy in worshipping God unitedly with those who serve Him, and I have been thinking whether it would not be better for me now that I have united myself to ao Eldress Anna White. Believers, to resign my membership with Friends, and thereby save them the unpleasant business of dismissing me, which they must necessarily do according to disci- pline. I do not wish to be a defaulter and I feel best satisiied to send in my resignation. I have written a document which I think will answer, and will thee be so kind as to give it to Sister Rachel so that she may hand it in to the monthly meeting, if she is willing to do so? It has been an act of my own and I have consulted with no one upon the subject. Please give my love to Mother, brothers and sisters and other inquiring friends. With much love I bid thee adieu. Affectionately thy daughter, Anna White." The accompanying letter of resignation was not an- swered for six years, the requested dismissal being sent in 1855- "To the Monthly Meeting of New York. "Dear Friends : "Having after due consideration united with another Religious Society than the one wherein I have a birth- right, I think it most proper to send you my resignation, as I wish to give you no unnecessary trouble on my ac- count. I take this opportunity to express my thankful- ness for the privilege and protection that have been ex- tended to me while a member with you, and assure you that I retain the same regard for every important testi- mony that Friends profess that ever I did. I "I remain in love your friend, "Anna White." To her mother, she writes, — "Be assured, my Mother, though hard and trying it may now seem to thee, the time will come, either here or in another state of exist- ence, that thee will rejoice and be thankful that I am united to those who die daily unto sin, and live a pure and holy life. I say this for thy comfort." These words QUAXEKISlf SHAKBN OOi. 92 were speedily fulfilled, for, within a year, her netkcr blessed her choice and said, "Thee gives me more com- fort than all my other children." At the Head of the Ministry was the venerable Ruth Landon, successor of Mother Lucy Wright, who had seen and remembered Mother Ann Lee. One day she called upon the North Family Elders and Anna was summoned for introduction and inspection. Eldress Ruth, tall, com- manding, with piercing black eyes, looked the young con- vert through and through, as if reading her very soul, and uttered these encouraging words, "Well, Anna, if you are faithful, I can promise you all the tribulation you are able to endure. But you will always have strength given you to bear it !" Eldress Anna used to say, "I have proved her words true." Her father writes : "Prirc thy privileges my dear daughter, to make thyself worthy of them by improvement. Every temporal and spiritual good is within thy reach if thou wilt but labor for them." Anna found great difficulty in learning the Shaker dance. At last, a sister said, "Anna, don't you know how to skip?" "Skip, why, of course I do!" "Well, that is all there is to it." She had skipped through all her happy outdoor life, and now the quick-step was turned to the service of God in the exercise which Father Joseph Meacham had seen angel hosts practicing. Anna had not been with the family long, when she herself had a quick-song and according to custom came to her Eldress, singing and dancing the simple words. Eldress An- toinette heard her through and remarked with her motherly smile, "Well, Anna, I think the Quakerism is pretty well shaken out of you." It had been agreed that Anna should pay her mother an annual visit, and this she did, accompanied by an older sister, for several years. When she made her first visit, a farewell letter was given her, with verses ex- pressive of the sympathy and encouragement of her yoimg companions, in what was felt to be a time of testing. 1t$ Eldress Akna White. To this letter, which was signed "Emily S ," she replied : "New Lebanon, June nth, 1850. "Dear Sister; "I received your very kind letter the day before I left home, and I cannot express to you how good it seemed to me. I felt that I needed the strength of my young sisters and when I read your letter it gave me fresh courage, and I felt that I could fearlessly press through every obstacle that might appear in my path. Your love was indeed a strength and comfort to me as was also the love which you gathered from those who have travelled many years in the work of redemption. And while with my connections in the bustle and jar of the wicked world, I could feel the holy flowings of pure gospel love in my soul, which nourished and supported it when temptations surrounded me on every hand. And I feel thankful for that power which was given me to re- sist the influences of those who would gladly have called me back to dwell with them in the haunts of the wicked. When I think of the sacrifice that I have made, it is but small, very small, compared to the reward I have already received; for here have I found in the gospel that which satisfies my soul, and which I know if I am faithful will prove an abiding treasure when the transient things of time are at an end. And I feel determined to unite with you and labor to prize my privilege more highly, to bear the cross more faithfully and to live day by day as though it were the last, and in doing this I know that I shall receive a blessing. And in conclusion I will send my thanks and best love for every gospel grace which you have bestowed upon me. I will treasure them up and labor for an increase, that I may be more worthy to re- ceive them." She cherished through the years a letter from Eldress Some Good Advice. ^ Antoinette, dated December ist, 1850. "You will doubt- less, my young sister," she writes, "as you travel along in the gospel path, meet with many things that will try your faith; but it is a good thing for us all to remember, that a Faith untried is uncertain. The way of redemption is necessarily the way of the cross, and it is requisite that we all pass through the furnace of affliction and be tried, even as gold is tried, to prove us, whether we will honor and serve God in adversity as well as in prosperity, and give up all to follow him, even to our life. We may for- sake father, mother, brother and sister, riches, honor and fame, easier than our life. * * * * It is what we all would choose, to have our own ways, fix and execute our own plans, think our own thoughts, speak and act as we please, without dictation. But the gospel calls all its subjects to pursue an entirely different course ; to receive the king- dom as little children, all to subject our wills and move in strict conformity to the Head, as members of one liv- ing body. And I would say to you. my young friend and sister, never flinch in the hour of trial ; be firm, be con- stant in your duty, ever listen to the kind and gentle monitions of conscience, to the still, small voice which says, 'This is the way, walk ye in it!' and you will be guided safely through all dangers. * * * * You justly re- mark that tlie faith which you have received in the gos- pel is a gift of God to \'ou. T hope you will ever regard, love and cherish it as such. T can unite with you in thank- fulness for the gift. Also for the good use you have thus far made of it. And I hope you will fearlessly declare it, at home or abroad, to friend or foe. May you be a cheer- ful and fruitful Zion traveller!" The work of Eldress Antoinette in developing the character and capabilities of Anna White was not the least of her many noble achieve- ments. Anna did not receive sympathetic treatment from every one, nor was she able to read consistency in every life «4 AjNcMfi Akna Wxn& about her. When balked by some startling discrepancies between faith and practice, she went to her Elders, ask- ing, "What shall I think?" "Think?" ejaculated Eldress Antoinette, "Why put it down to poor human nature, — and do better yourself!" Jealousy was not unknown and one woman, in particular, who afterward left the order, made every effort to harass the young beginner. But Anna ibore it calmly and was fond of testing herself, to see how much she could stand. Her father writes, — "The time will come when inno- cency and integrity, if but with one talent, will weigh down all the accumulations of this world's riches, the attainments of science, literature, art and popularity. In that hour, how happy will it be for those who have chosen the simple, childlike graces of humility and truth. May our portion be with these !" Shaker testimony was strong in regard to relationship end the necessity of making a complete separation from the natural to find a union in the spiritual. Anna united with all such testimony and, her native energy now turned in full force upon the conquest of her lower nature, the overcoming of wilful, wayward tendencies, and the devel- opment of the spiritual being, she sometimes went beyond what the ideals of self-sacrifice inculcated by her Shaker teachers would demand. One day, she threw into the kit- chen fire two daguerreotypes of her father and mother. These sun-pictures, invented about ten years before, were rare and expensive. In her severity against her natural yearnings, she burned them and said, "The crackle of them in the flames was sweet to me!" Some one told the Elders and they called her and asked for an explanation. "Why, Anna," they said, "you need not have burned them. We would have kept them for you." "O, I did not wish to trouble you with them !" was her reply. The endurance of whatever sacrifice presented itself as useful or neces- sary was ever a silent one. Joy in Her Work. iS One day, she was appointed with several others to clean the meeting-room. In a row across the wide room, each scrubbed a certain width of board, and thus in kneeling procession saw the white floor pass immaculate from their hands. Anna, tired of the uncomfortable posture, finally uttered a wearied sigh of complaint. An older sister at her side, said, sternly, "Anna, anything is better than the fllesh!" Abashed, Anna accepted the reproof and deter- mined never again to utter complaint of hardships en- dured under the gospel gift of freedom from the bond- age of the world. She certainly kept her vow. Few of the hard and disagreeable tasks which fell to the sister- hood in that day of hand lalxir, which could in any way be compassed by her, but she accomplished, often going be- yond requirements in the thoroughness of her work. Though delicate, she had well-developed muscles and re- joiced in her strength of limb and hand. It was a pleas- ant jest, in years when muscular exertion was no longer expected of her, if some one found a weight heavy, to exclaim, "Why, I can carry that with one finger!" and seizing basket or bundle, off she would trot, with quick step and laughing glance. January 8th, 1854, is the date of an appreciative letter to her mother. She writes : "I have now lying beside me thy welcome letter and I feel to express in words of gratitude and thankfulness the friendly and interested feeling manifested in thy various communications to mc. I can bring to remembrance the many trying positions that thee has been placed in, in bygone days, and when reflecting with what undaunted courage and perseverance thee has been able to brave the storms that threatened the destruction of thy little bark, and to ride with Chris- tian fortitude over the swelling waves of affliction, I can see that the beneficent hand of an All-Wise Creator has been and still is extended to support the feeble knees and raise the drooping spirits. As thy older children 2|^ Eldress Anna White. were separasted from thee and made their choice in life, they went with a Mother's blessing. I was left. Good and evil were set before me, and many were the temp- tations and allurements which beset me in that critical period of my life. I panted after pleasure, I sought for enjoyment, but found them not. Here, however, was laid open to my view substantial pleasures and pure enjoy- ments, a heavenly, spiritual relation not only to be en- joyed in time, but through the endless ages of eternity. And feeling desirous to be numbered with those who can say in truth, 'Lo, we have forsaken all to follow thee,' and giving heed to the still, small voice that whispered in my ear, 'This is the way, walk thou in it,' I saw that it would give that peace and comfort to my soul that the world I knew tould not give nor take away. Thy feelings alt tihat time were rather prejudiced against Believers, and with unceasing efforts strove to save (as thee then thought) thy erring child from impending danger. Though the struggle at first was severe and trying, yet from that time to the present I feel that I owe a debt of gratitude to thee for the noble manner thee has exhibited and an ex- ample of patience worth following. I am very thankful that thy health is improving though age is fast approach- ing, yet thee may still live many years. Both brethren and sisters very often inquire after thee, those who know of my writing desire to be remembered to thee. Give my kind love to Father and say to him I have received his letter. Thee wanted to know if we continued to like the sewing-machine. We do like it very much, I should hardly know what to do without it. Charlotte and Elizaette both send their particular love, to which I will add the love of thy affectionate daughter, Anna." During the last few years of Robert White's life, he re- mained more with his family, coming less frequently to Lebanon, partly on account of business necessities and the care of the estate. The softening influence of the years I Loss OF A Father. 27 and the presence of his prattling grandchildren wrought a change, thus described by his eldest daughter. "Father shows an increased paternal interest for all of us in every way, age calls it forth so kindly, that we in our hearts joy in the change that has been wrought in him, and would fain forget much of the past in the bright sun- shine of the present. Grandchildren climb his knee so fearlessly and he joins so in their merriment that I often question if it can indeed be true," — forgetting, apparently, that a change had also been wrought in her own feelings and manner toward him. A little letter from eight-year- old Hanna says, — "I hope thee will come to see us this summer at Woodside." This was the name of the large estate near Deal, New Jersey, the summer home of the White children and their families. Now the property of her brother John, the adopted son of their uncle John Oor- lies, whose name he bore, Woodside would have belonged to Anna, had she not been disinherited because of her adherence to her Shaker faith. In January, 1856, at Woodside, where the family was then residing, after a few days of slight indisposition, Robert White, while at breakfast, suddenly became uncon- scious and, after forty-eight hours of insensibility, passed quietly away, at the age of sixty-four. It was a severe winter, mails were delayed, telegraph interrupted, and John sent a letter to Anna by the hand of a trusty messen- ger. Her journal reads : "Sabbath, Jan. 13th. Cold, icy winds with drifting snows have been our constant attendants since last Christ- mas. To-day, the elements seem to be engaged in a se- vere contest, snow, hail, rain and wind all striving to ob- tain the victory. "Monday, 14th. A letter from Sister Rachel informing of Father's indisposition, it is thought to be only a slight cold. Elder Richard also received one from him saying that he was quite feeble. Snow continues. 29 Eldress Anna White. "Wed., i6th. The announcement of the sudden depart- ure of a loved parent to the spirit land reached mine ears this morning at an early hour, 3 o'clock. Preston La Fetra arrived with the news about 12, bringing a letter from Brother John urging me to come immediately. What feelings ensued cannot be described and can never be for- gotten. Eldress Antoinette was to accompany me, which was siome releasement, knowing she would feel as no other could feel, and sympathize as a mother in the trying scenes before me. Left our home at half-past 5 o'clock with Preston. A long ride of fourteen or fifteen miles through snow drifts almost impassable, with a cold wind blowing from the north-west, we reached Chatham about 10. Ar- rived in New York at 4 P. M. and went to Brother Cor- nell's, but found the family had gone to New Jersey, only the servants and youngest child being at home. After an early supper retired to rest but not to sleep, for thought could not be controlled. "Thurs., 17th. Gladly did I hail the first gleam of morn- ing, if only for the change! Last night it was so long, hour after hour passed away — all so dark before me — though oft when fervidly engaged in solemn prayer, a ray of light as if some bright-winged angel hovered near, whispering doimfort to my aching heart throbbing within me. And then a thought would cheer me that the prayers of righteous souls were being sent toward the throne of mercy and love for me, poor child of earth, imparting strength and blessing. And I was blest, for with a tender Mother by my side ever bestowing love and holy power, T had no cause to fear and could bid defiance to the grim powers of darkness, for all these will never be able to shake my holy faith or overthrow the rock on which my feet are firmly established. We reached Port Monmouth about 5 P. M. Eighteen miles were yet to be travelled before reaching Deal, and it was a continual jolt, jolt, jolt, the roads were miserable in the extreme. Found the family To THE Last Resting-Place. 39 all Qonvened in the little sitting-room, twenty-three, includ- ing ourselves. It was 9 o'clock. We were cordially wel- comed and after a light supper retired. I now felt some releasement, knowing the feelings of the family, and I was soon wrapped in slumber and from slumber into a long, deep sleep. "Friday, i8th. Very cold miorning, at 11 o'clock the fun- eral began. Sat in silence an hour and a quarter. Eldress Antoinette preferred remaining at home, which we did. Between forty and fifty sleighs followed the remains to the last resting-place. In trying scenes how doubly precious is the love of kindred souls! and I am more and more thankful for all that I have gained by this pure love, made more so through suffering; and how contemptible are earthly riches in comparison with the durable riches of the gospel gained by the cross of Christ and self-denial; all things else sink into insignificance — therefore, I will glory in naught else. "Jan. 2ist. At half-past 3 were on the move. Break- fasted with Joseph (Baker) who accompanied us up. Phebe, Rachel and John arose and saw us comfortably seated in the sleigh, took leave of Mother, who bore up under her feelings remarkably well. It was about 5 when we left Woodside, 1.20 found us in New York. This even- ing we feasted on love and union, and sweet it was, for we felt poor and needy. Quite unexpectedly, a number of brethren from various quarters, hearing we were in the city and our whereabouts, called to see us, which was refreshing to our spirits. To feel the ministration of love and strength, peace and gospel union, when weary in spirit and drooping in heart, was more to me than all the vain pleasures and enjoyments that this world could afford, and I know that I realized it as a blessing. Twenty-five years this very day since first I breathed the breath of life. "Jan. 23rd. Charles met us at the depot with a doublt 30 Eldress Anna White. team and extra cloaks, which were very acceptable. This was the worst part of our journey, roads unbroken and snow-drifts to excite our timidity, tipping the sleigh first one way and then the other. However, we were bound home and the thought inspired us. It was reached at last and with thankful hearts. I never was more wearied, and so completely used up : it seemed as if every prop for my support was taken away and I was left to myself, — ^^all ap- peared like a wild dream and with a bewildered brain I retired to rest. Elizaette slept with me in the little garret, as I felt unlike seeing many of the good folks that night. "Jan. 24th. Rested and picked up my journey things. Took an inventory of Father's books, clothing, etc., to send to Mother soon. Still confused in mind. I cannot think that I am no more to see my Father — even now, I imagine that I hear his step or see his form — peace to his spirit! Much do I owe to him for his exemplary life and the example he set me — respectful to all, doing good and aiding the poor and needy of this world !" More than a half century later, a thinker and philan- thropist wrote of Robert White, — "It was he who so im- pressed our sainted Theodore Parker of most blessed memory with the reality of the Motherhood of God. May his memory be blessed for thus exerting such an influence upon the grandest prophet of the century just passed!" Anna had been appointed to care for women visitors and inquirers, entertained at the second dwelling, which also held the nurses* apartments. The sister in charge, she was expected to sleep in the room with guests, in whose admission little care seems to have been exercised. Once, she found an insane woman with murderous ten- dencies under her charge, and watched and controlled her through the long night alone. Again, another, not much better, whose rum-bottle she discovered after the house had been closed for the night. The bottle she took awiay and the woman she governed by her strong mental con- Sister Eunice Cantrhx. JI trol. Frequently, there were groups of children, and often one, two, or three babies to be cared for. The year 1856 was marked by the coming of many people, including chil- dren. March was cold and stormy. Visitors came and went. After the departure of one group, "Cleaned up the visitors' room for the next gathering. 20th. My thoughts have been in the future, looking forward to the increase of truth, to the spread of the gospel, and of the great neces- sity of being faithful in the work of salvation, so that in after years, I can look back with perfect satisfaction upon my gospel travel." Christmas brought changes in the Ministry. She writes : "I love and bless every gift in Zion, love those who have through suffering and tribulation kept the gospel for me. I will walk in their footsteps." "1857, Dec. ist. Death has visited us. Our much loved sister Eunice (Cantrell) has left us to dwell in the land of spirits. Never shall we behold her pleasant visage, or be partakers of the good she imparted from temporal labors. All shared in them alike. It is very near eight years that she has worked in the dairy. We shall miss her much, because we loved her, — ready and willing to perform any little act of kindness to a brother or sister that lay in her power. May she hover around us, a guard- ian angel, aiding and bestowing power to the needy from her bright home in heaven ! Farewell, dear sister in love, may I so live that thee may greet and welcome me when I have finished my work on earth! "Dec. 3rd. The funeral services were held. The new burial ground has been for the first time broken open. A windy, blustering day, and we felt it much on the moun- tain, sang one song and returned from the solemn scene, praying that we may be reconciled to the heav}' blow. Sis- ter Eunice is in her forty-seventh year. "Dec. 20th. A day of fasting and prayer. We improve in the yearly sacrifice. A beautiful day and I rejoice in the 33 Eldress Anna White. work of salvation. Miay this continually be the breathing of my soul, that saving power may be mine, that truth and honesty may be my guide, and that repentance may reach the inmost recesses of the heart, washing and cleansing from all sin, even the very stains of sin, — O good angels, help me !" Before Christmas, she records the going of Asenath Clark, released the year before from the Ministry. "A be- loved Mother in Israel, a tried and faithful soldier of the Cross, has finished her work on earth, and, like a sheaf of corn fully ripe, is gathered to her own beautiful man- sion with redeemed and purified souls, there to dwell for- ever. Many are the encouraging words she has given me, and I am thankful that I have seen and been owned and blessed by her as one of Mother's first-born. Peace to thy spirit, so meek and full of hope !" Anna's love of the mountains about her Shaker home was second only to her love of the sea. What it meant to her to give up the blue, beckoning waves, none but herself ever knew. Her keen delight on the few rare oc- casions when she visited the ocean is well remembered. But she delighted in the mountains. In long summer days she and her companions roamed over them, gathering the berries which everywhere grew abundantly, garnering har- vests of beauty, health and inspiration. In June, the hills were rosy with wild strawberries, and for years the sisters supplied the family table with their sweet, spicy flavor. The land was blue with violets, and, as long as she was able, each springtime found her in some haunt of these flowers. Nutting in autumn was sometimes enjoyed, the sisters having many a happy day under the care of the brothers, as they and the boys shook down the brown beauties of the autumn woods. From brooks, spicy with mint, beautiful ravines, flashing in foam from the water- falls, their cool, deep woods bright with flowers and sweet with bird-songs, from sunny, open pastures and rich, wide Elder Richard Bushnell. 33 meadows, flowed, year by year, into her receptive nature the tide of pure, glad inspiration — the sense of the beauty, the love, the goodness of God. "1858, May 30th. Beautiful is the unfolding of Nature! Lovely is creation adorned with rich blessings descending from an All- Wise Parent! In sweet harmony let me join m praises and, thanksgiving, for all created things appear to swell in gratitude to their Maker. Then let me not be stupid or void of feeling, but unite in simplicity with the little birds of the field and sing songs of praise, and with the frisking lambs, innocent in their merry sports, dancing joyously; with the trees of the wood, with every flower and shrub bursting in gratitude and gladness into new life! This is what I want, new life, like the spring." In October, Elder Richard Bushnell was removed tem- porarily to the Ministry. The event calls forth these re- flections : "Through the varied scenes of time, perhaps tribulation more frequently visits the aibodes of Zion and distills in the hearts of her inhabitants that sorrow, that g«dly sorrow, that mdteth the contrite and boweth low the soul who is given up in simple obedience to the re- quirements of the gospel, than any other one thing. Still, there is comfort in sorrow, in weeping and sighing, yea, more pleasure and enjoyment to be derived therefrom(if the soul works with God) than any transitory pleasure, however enticing or captivating to the carnal mind. The followers of the Lamb can and do rejoice in it, for to such He draweth near with healing in his wings, with a staff of support and strength, with a iS^pirit full of Truth and Power, with a heart overflowing with love and mercy. Our Heavenly Father and Mother oareth for the tender lambs of the fold. Therefore, there is no cause for fear, no need of unreconciliation. Elder Richard wanted us to look cheerful, cheerful. With such examples of self-sac- rifice as these, I can but bless the gift, believe it is of God, and can bow in reconciliation to His will, as made known 34 Eldress Anna White. through the holy Anointed. Elder Richard has ever been a Father to me, and the precious words he has uttered, so fraught with love, will be treasured up with care as precious pearls. Many a lesson of wisdom have I learned by his goodly instructions and I have striven to lay them up in an honest heart. "1859, Miarch 20th. The brethren have commenced opera- tions on the barn, are now very busy sawing, sat up every night this week. No visitors at present, A good time for serious meditation." The big stone barn, then the largest in the United States, built of loose stones gathered from fields close by, was completed and occupied for the first time on March 4th, i860. "Sabbath, April 24th, 1859, is marked by an event that has never happened before. At the Presbyterian Meeting- house in the Valley, an invitation was given to Elder Frederick to attend service. The invitation was accepted and over thirty from the Shaker Village attended." "August 8th. We have a great privilege in meeting with our dear gospel friends from Canterbury, Brother David Parker, Eldress Sister Dorothy Durgin and Sister Mary Whitchor. We have a lovely visit from them this evening, or rather, a religious meeting, singing, speaking, etc. There has been a work of God at Canterbury — of humility and repentance, and of these they administered, particularly Eldress Sister. She is one, I think, that is wholly devoted, body, soul and spirit, to the gospel. If I can be clad with a garment of purity, of meekness and love, for what more can I ask? (Nothing, for these combined form the gospel." At the close of a wearisome, heated month of service in the dining-room, she records : "Aug^ust 29th. Ended the kitchen turn. Sept. 3rd. Sabbatli. Went down to the sick-room and gave myself up to the nurses. Chills and fever are prevalent." Five days later, she opens her jour- nal to record the death by accident of a worker on the big Anna "Nigh Unto Death." 35 barn. "A staging gave way, one was killed and two others seriously injured." This was her last entry. Lx)ng weeks followed of delir- ium and fever. Sanitation was not understood, fifty years ago, and fevers, now practically unknown in Shaker homes, were frequent. Much had been brought to bear upon the devoted young sister, during her ten years of Shaker life, severe trials from without as well as the difficult experi- ences of a young disciple within the order. Perhaps a chief cause of the trouble was the poisoned atmosphere often breathed in the sleeping-room shared with women visitors. Congestion of the brain accompanied the fever, and a prolonged and violent hemorrhage threatened to end her life. A skillful physician, resident in the Society, took charge of the case, and to his devoted care was largely due the successful termination of the illness. The beauti- ful autumn weeks, so glorious in her mountain home, Anna lay nigh unto death, and after the fever had subsided, weak as an infant, in the tender care of the nurses. Her family were sent for, her mother, sisters and brother John visited her, thinking never to see their loved one again on earth. Their sorrow, deep and sincere, was equalled by the grief that wrung the hearts of her spiritual kindred, whose love had been gained by her sweet humility, her loving, self-sacrificing spirit. But, God was good, and she was restored. When, after many weeks, she stood upon her feet, she found herself utterly unable to walk, and had to learn to walk, like a little child. On Christmas Day she resumed her journal. "O blessed day, in which I live, the blessed cross to bear. None other blessing do I ask, all are supplied with care. Father and Mother have I found, I dwell with them each day; They are my comfort and delight, they're my support and stay. , 36 Eldress Anna White. They feed me when I'm hungry, they clothe me when I'm poor, Lo, at this fountain I will drink, yea, drink and thirst no more." "Assemble at ro o'clock with our Canaan friends for meeting. Beautiful testimonies are delivered. Many spoke their faith and many ministering angels were present, be- stowing beautiful gifts which were improved. With thank- ful heart I caUj say that I am able to exercise and enjoy the worship of God in a small measure. Had it not been for kind and sympathizing friends, my dear gospel rela- tion, I should not have sustained life. For some unknown purpose I am permitted and privileged to remain awhile longer, thankful that I can bear the cross and be traveling farther and farther away from a carnal nature, into the purity of the gospel. May I ever prove worthy of the love and affection, the sympathy and interest, that have been and still are extended to me, from kind fathers and mothers, brothers and sisters. The great debt of gratitude to them I owe, and can only be paid by faithful obedience in being truly honest and simply good. This I can do and will, all shall know, see and feel where my treasure lies and where it is hid. "January ist. i860 has fairly commenced. A happy, happy New Year, I would wish all, happy in being good and doing good. I will with the year set out anew and find a permanent increase. Had a song this morning, 'I hear a Voice.' The gift of songs is a beautiful gift, which I desire to prize greatly and be more thankful for the measure I have." Anna White's gift of song was truly a beautiful one. Songs and hymns, throbbing with spiritual life and love, redolent of the sweet airs of the heavens in which her spirit dwelt, are found here and there in the printed vol- umes, in books of manuscript melodies and in the mem- ories of the few who remain of her early associates. Never Willing to Obey. 37 regarding herself as a singer, her rich, sweet voice, full of the power of the Spirit, added beauty and strength to the united tones of family and society, while her memory was alive with song. VI HER appointment to the Elders' Order, in 1865, upon the transfer of Eldress Harriet Bullard to Watervliet, was a most unwelcome surprise. To her remonstrance, Eldress Antoinette replied, "Well, Anna, you can obey me, can't you? You are pretty good at obeying." The sisters tell of her that after the interview, she re- treated to the kitchen, retired behind the stove, and sat down 'on a bench against the wall, with face hidden in her hands and elbows on her knees. "What is the matter, Anna?" was asked. No answer. At last, some one drew out the tearful reply, "You are all so much older and wiser than I am!" They lovingly assured her that she had their union and blessing in the call. As associate El- dress, she had especial care of the girls, and, with her great love for >'<5ung people, she was very gifted in the gathering of young sisters, the development of their char- acters and the nurture of their spiritual life. In a letter to the Ministry, after nineteen years' ex- perience, she says : — "Theories are good in their place and knowledge of divine things is necessary, but I would rather be void of this knowledge, unless I can put into practice the benefits derived therefrom. It was this beauti- ful practical religion of Believers that attracted me to them. And from that time to this, I have grown stronger in the faith of practical works. I see the result of it upon individuals who are working out their salvation. They are the salt of the earth — Saviors — their bearing in every 38 Eldrbss Anna Wmite. way denotes the purity of their lives and their counten- ances reflect the image of our Heavenly Father and Mo- ther. Such I would become, to have my Father's and •Mother's name written upon my forehead — stamped upon my character." A cherished bundle of home letters tells of changes that left but two of the circle surrounding her youth. Phebe's loving letters grow fewer, consumption had seized upon her. John, whose health had begun to fail, spent a year in Europe, hoping for recovery. A graduate of Har- vard, he had been a student under Professor Agassiz, to whom he was warmly attached. The last letter from her mother, dated in October, 1871, was written from Rachel's home in Orange, New Jersey, inviting Anna to visit them. In July, 1872, Rachel writes of the sudden death, by hem- orrhage of the lungs, of their brother John, who was taken at the home of Cornell, while alone, with only the servants. The next September, their mother passes away, and, in the following February, their sister Phebe was released from suffering. While these events were transpiring among her natural kindred. Shaker homes were astir with life and energy. Sister Anna writes in March, 1871, "Spiritual elements are ripe and rife for the truth. Progress among mankind really wonderful, endorsing the leading principles that constitute Believers' testimony. (Good angels speed the work, good angels in the body!" Sister Anna was an active participant in a missionary movement, started at Mount Lebanon, in which other societies united, holding conventions at central points, sometimes in connection with Spiritualists and Free-thinkers. In the summer of 1871, Elder Evans, in company with his friend and ad- mirer. Dr. James M. Peebles, went on a missionary tour to England. A trip was made to New York. "Here we meet Elder Frederick. After breakfasting, we turned our whole attention to him, saw some to his clothes, and then Thiy Meet the Maine Ministry. 30 went with him over to Jersey City to visit the great steamer Atlantic. We crowd into the little stateroom and James requests a song, 'God is infinitely able.' Something gives way inside and there is a brejikdown. We put to again and succeed tolerably well. Sing 'A few more Shadows,' and 'Pure Love,' then the adieu. Burdens of home gather about us with the shadows. We pray as we never prayed before." "Our Eastern Journey," by M. P. and A. W. is a lively story, full of appreciation and enjoyment. "Thursday A.M., July loth, 1873. All creation seemed lit with beauty on this lovely morning, and joy burst forth from bird and insect. The waving grain, the grand old woods and fragrant flowers seemed no less joyous, they speak one language, harmony and love. But how is it with us? I rather think there was a blending of joy and sor- row. We felt rather sad at leaving home, and the little burdens that we could have borne were left for others to shoulder. However, it was not our own gift, and I think we united with it pretty well upon the whole." The sisters met the Maine Ministry at Hancock and journeyed home with them. At Boston, they met the Har- vard Ministry, who accompanied them as far as Portland. "We put up at the Marlborough House. Walk on Boston C