Church Historic Site Guide Missionary in Nauvoo, Illinois. Author, Blogger, Speaker, Historian, Scouting Veteran, Camp director, Family Historian and researcher.
Note from Kevin: As I served as a Site Missionary in the Illinois Historic Sites Mission from 2024 through 2025, I created a plethora of blogs on a variety of historic subjects. Through the mission I created 75 blog articles. Most of these blog articles were created from extensive history research about Nauvoo, the prophets, ancestors, and others who lived and served there. Many of the blog articles ultimately became books of their own and the 20 books compiled in Nauvoo are available as free PDF files (upon request to me by email or text). These are also available for purchase on lulu.com. (Find the books – and many others of mine – with a search on the word “Nauvoo” and even more with a search on my name)
The 75 blog articles have been published on lulu.com in four volumes (each of just under 800 pages).
Above: Elder Hunt as the “night writer”.
Some of the blog articles were created as monthly newsletters of the Illinois Historic Sites Mission – as Sister Hunt and I served as the Mission Historians. These articles are not included in the published books but they will be included in the official 2025 full year mission history when published in January of 2026.
Above: Elder Hunt typing blog articles when not busy giving tours at the Sarah Granger Kimball (original) home
Above: Elder Hunt typing above the Orson Hyde home between tours
There are a variety of ways that you can access the blog articles:
All of the blogs are and will continue to be available on the blogsite of:
InNauvooWithKevandLou.wordpress.com
If you see one or more articles that you like and want a copy, send me a text or e-message with your e-mail address and I will be happy to send one or many of them to you.
Blog articles on the blog site are in descending order by date of publication. Note that some of the articles were published out of chronological order but that order has been corrected in the published books.
Above: Elder Hunt writing at the Browning Home and Gun Shop (nice office) when not giving tours.
At the bottom of this article I have included an index of all the published blog articles. The index (in chronological order) includes the Blog #, the Blog Title, the Date the article was published on the blog site, and the book volumes in which the articles are published on lulu.com.
If the links do not work or do not appear to be active, simply copy the link address into your browser and hit enter and it should come up.
Here is the link to the Blog Book #4 in a free PDF format
Being in Nauvoo just kind of grows on you (at least it has grown on me and our family). After being there, experiencing that “special Nauvoo Spirit” it tugs at the heart strings. Everyone who comes to Nauvoo feels of that Spirit. We have all felt it and it is marvelous and wonderful. The Nauvoo Spirit within us brings a desire to stay in Nauvoo forever and to return again, and again.
Sadly Nauvoo trips to come to an end. But as they do, the memories linger forever in our hearts. We remember the restored homes and shops, but most importantly the feelings that we felt as we were there. We feel the burning of the Spirit as He witnesses to us of the power of Jesus Christ and His Restoration of the Gospel in our day. We see and feel that Restoration all around Nauvoo and it touches our hearts.
A FAREWELL SONG OF NAUVOO
When I was a young missionary in Nauvoo – a hundred years ago … actually just half of that … 50 years ago … We had a mission song (sung to the tune of “Edelweiss” that we sang together as missionaries departed our sacred and special Nauvoo society. A copy of the song was given to departing missionaries by the mission president, Dr. J. LeRoy Kimball. Dr. Kimball was the visionary who began the restoration efforts in Nauvoo (so the song mentions “Kimball’s Hand”).
Here is my copy of song and certificate:
Twenty five years later, our daughter, Jackie was privileged to experience a BYU Nauvoo semester (in Nauvoo, of course). They had a song which they sang together:
For almost 25 years, that was the farewell song that was lovingly and tenderly sung by departing missionaries.
Then as we served in 2024 a senior sister missionary composed a new song – sung to the tune of the old “Mormon” song, “The Gallant Ship”. (This song was composed by the great Latter-day song writer, even William W. Phelps, and was sung by foreign Saints as they prepared to leave their native lands for Nauvoo and the hymn even appeared in Emma Smith’s “Sacred Hymns” 1835 hymnbook. Here is a link to the old Mormon era favorite:
The new song was nice and had the potential to be “peppy” in the tradition of “The Gallant Ship”. However, many missionaries, including Sister Hunt and me, liked the song that our Jackie also sang (and which we sang at the beginning of our mission as missionaries departed).
Each of the songs captured much of the feeling and Spirit of Nauvoo and departing the special place. And our own feelings were the same as our Nauvoo departure time approached far too rapidly – and certainly as it came the actual departure time.
DEPARTURE OF OUR LAST FAMILY VISITORS
We survived having all of our family here for most of three weeks. It was exhausting but also wonderful. We know that the family members felt strongly the Spirit of Nauvoo. They loved hearing of the Prophet Joseph Smith, their own Nauvoo ancestors, and experiencing all of the special restored homes and shops. We know that each family member will forever carry special memories in their minds and hearts about their visit to Nauvoo. It was such a great blessing to have them in Nauvoo with us for the final weeks and days of our mission.
Our mission was actually scheduled to end on October 1st. That is when most our April 1st 2024 MTC group departed. We extended our mission by 13 days to accommodate our many families who wanted to come – planning their trips around their Arizona school fall breaks.
On Saturday October 11th, We dropped Rusty and family back at the Moline airport.
We did not want to travel on Sunday so we planned to leave on Monday, October 13th. Still, however, we did have to work furiously on Sunday (against our wishes). The Nauvoo ox was mired up to its knees and beyond.
SO MUCH TO DO IN SO LITTLE TIME
We got back late in the evening from the airport, but then we had to get in high gear. We had only about 26 hours before we would be heading home and leaving Nauvoo. We didn’t waste any time. Back at home, we got right into the tasks looming before us. Lou packed many items. This is a relentless job and has taken much effort.
I finalized my guest log in my Tours spreadsheet. I did laundry (two batches), Lou and I packed up a lot of stuff for the return trip home. I did more mission newsletter tasks.
OUR FINAL FAREWELL TO MISSION FRIENDS
OCTOBER 12TH – SUNDAY
Sunday, October 12th proved to be kind of a tear-jerker. It pulled at the heart strings.
We went to our final mission church meetings. This was super sad. We attended sacrament meeting and then Sunday school. Two young sisters spoke on the gathering of Israel. Our mission leader, President Daniel S. Mehr then talked.
President Mehr shared a story of when he was the mission leader in the West Indies Mission ten or more years ago. He talked of doing a mission tour – with the help of his assistants. He had to go to one place that required a boat ride across a very wide river – taken by a guy in a canoe. On the other side of the scarry ride he saw glorious missionaries in white shirts and ties. He said that a general authority later came to visit and took the same canoe ride. President Mehr said that he promised the general authority that there would be light at the other side.
President Mehr has established a tradition of asking those whose last Sunday it is in the mission to stand. We missed that activity for our MTC group when we were at the Nauvoo Visitors’ Branch (per our duty) last Sunday. The departing missionaries can be couples or young sister missionaries. I told Lou that if we were the only ones in this situation today that I would not want to stand. Nice thought for a crusty old “fart” but It did not work that way.
When the question was posed, we stood up and yes, we were the only ones standing. We stood for just a moment and then sat down after the oohs and aahs as people digested the fact that we are leaving. But President Mehr immediately told us to remain standing. We were obedient. And he had us remain standing for what seemed like a long time.
President Mehr had high praise for us. He called us “an amazing couple”. He talked of Sister Hunt’s “ancient Nauvoo history” through his father and the original Nauvoo brick. Then he talked of her involvement with the new Temple brick design. He then said, “And Elder Hunt served the last few months of his young mission in Nauvoo.”
He then talked of how God orchestrates these experiences and connections individually for each of us. He said, “The Lord knows every missionary and he enjoys making such things come together. We are His covenant children. [And referencing his previous story …] We have to cross the river to help others. God has fun creating these experiences and connections for His children.” He also said, “I can’t wait until I can be in His position to also have fun creating these experiences for my children.” President Mehr got emotional as he talked of Lou and me. I think that he appreciates and is kind of overwhelmed at what we have contributed to the mission.
After the meeting, several folks came and said, “that was a great tribute to you guys from the mission president”. People who talked to me included Elders Harford, Lowe, and Sanders – and others.
STILL THINKING OF THE GRANDKIDS
After the meetings, we went to the home of Elder and Sister Hampton. Lou had made excuse for us not taking our grandson Lucas there for a geode and then had a change of heart and asked Elder Hampton if we could get one for him and Marinda’s children. Elder Hampton loves to share and his wife is all for giving away as many geodes as possible so that they don’t have to take them all home. He gave us some nice geodes. And she gave us a couple of bagels that she had made. (Lou has tried several times to make bagels – but each time without success.)
TRYING TO EMPTY OUT THE HOUSE
Sister Torri Sanders told Lou that she would accept any and all refrigerator food that she wanted to give away. So, as we got home, Lou immediately packed up two or three boxes of stuff. She also had amassed a large pile of stuff to take to the missionary D.I. We made both deliveries in one trip. It was great to get rid of all of “that stuff”. It was good to see it depart our home – since it diminished what we still needed to take home or otherwise deal with.
Today was a situation of a truly mired ox. And we worked the ox … We were kind of in a pickle. Kind of … we were really in a jam. Rusty and family were here and we needed to have car space to take them to the airport yesterday – and we needed to leave on Monday. So, this meant that our ox was in deep. We really didn’t have a choice.
We both labored extensively all afternoon to deal with our stuff. I broke down a lot of unused boxes and took them – and a leaky air mattress – to the small hidden dumpster located on Main Street by the Pioneer Pastimes pavilion.
PACKING THE WAGON TO GO WEST
As I began our mission … and these blog article, I compared our loaded vehicle to that of the pioneers who departed Nauvoo for the west. I then included the “Bill of Particulars” which was a list of needed supplies. We went way and beyond the “Bill of Particulars”. We had so much stuff. (And we had already sent a dozen or so boxes of “stuff” home with our son Keith. And we had arrived in our wagon – packed to the gills. How did we acquire all that more “stuff”? … It was a combination of my new Dutch oven, all of the books that I wrote while Nauvoo, the normal life accumulation of “stuff” and of course the convenience and draw of the missionary “Deseret Industries” (“the D.I.”). Anyway, it all crept in on us and now we had to deal with it.
My major task of the afternoon was that of packing up the car for our departure for home. And this truly was a major task – and an intricate test of my packing abilities (that I learned from my father).
We had so much “stuff” and only our mini-van (pioneer wagon) to haul all of the stuff home. I had to use all of my best skills to accomplish the task. I began by putting Lou’s Bosch, her sewing machine, and a newly acquired mixer that she just got from the D.I. – onto the floor of the van – between the second and third row seats. I then put one of our two 4’ tables. I put this atop of a couple of shrunk bags of clothing – to make the table sit flat. On this table, I put a board painting that Jenae started a while ago – about Jesus and children. I put a couple of other poster size photos. I then put the second table on top of these items. I packed towels and other soft stuff around the kitchen items – to secure them tightly. My computer printer – in a large cardboard box came next.
Lou had packaged twenty or more of those vacuum bags – of various sizes – so I began to fit these in everywhere I could – based upon size and stuff around them. I worked at this task for a couple of hours and wore myself out (like Wilford Woodruff building his house, “I wearied myself working on my house today …”) I also worked up quite a sweat – which is quite unusual for me.
EXTRA-MILE SERVICE IN OUR BEHALF
Elder and Sister Ballard (Dan and Wendi) of our Brigham District came over to say goodbye to us. She offered to take our massive collection of food storage (canned food). She said that she would also offer the same cans to young sister missionaries. I helped her load the boxes into her car. (He has a bad back.) She also took several boxes or collections of D.I. “stuff” and said that she would deliver this “stuff” there for us. They were “angels of mercy” in our behalf. They saved us a lot of effort and stress over what to do with all of that “stuff’.
Above: Elder and Sister Jones with Elder and Sister Hunt on the night before Nauvoo departure
Elder Ivan and Sister Ramona Jones (whom we hardly knew) were kind enough to invite us over to their home for dinner that night (knowing that we would be packing and kind of “out of food”. Sister Jones made a wonderful meal for us. She cooked a pork roast, had a greet salad, yummy green beans, a “pickle flavored” pasta salad and best of all a sour cream and chocolate chip cake that was amazing. We had an enjoyable visit with them. Elder and Sister have known the Mehrs for many years – after serving together in a previous mission. Elder Jones is to be a new counselor to President Mehr – after the departure soon of Elder Preston.
STILL GOADING THE OX
[Visitors to the Nauvoo “Oxen Experience” learn that the Teamsters guide the ox by use of a “goad” – a long, pointed stick – to prod and guide the animal forward.” (AI must have learned that from the Teamsters!)]
Above: Elder and Sister Hallows (him with the ox goad)
After we got home, we got into our ox management again. We hit it hard and heavy.
I later made another garbage run – and even another DI run about 10:30 PM.
Lou worked extensively on the take-down of the kitchen. This involved a lot of work. She mopped the floors. She did a hundred tasks that she had on her mental (and physical) list of things that needed to be done. She also wearied herself.
I also spent much time vacuuming all of the floors of the place. I did the main floor, the upstairs bedroom, and then the whole downstairs – including the large rag carpet that is on the floor.
Together we accomplished a great deal. We worked hard to get done with everything. Then each of us had showers to get rid of the sweat and to recuperate and rejuvenate from the hard day. That ox gave us a work-out! The showers were wonderful.
And by 11 PM we declared that we had done all that we needed to do that night. It was nice to get to bed at that early hour – so as to be rested for the anticipated long day of travel the next day. And the place looked wonderful. We still had a few things to pack on the morrow – the stuff used overnight, for showers, etc. but we were almost completely done and ready!
D-DAY (DEPARTURE DAY) FROM OUR BELOVED NAUVOO
We awoke this morning at our usual time – me at 6:15 AM. I got up and got ready. I packed up my bathroom stuff. I then packed my 3-day suitcase for the trip.
I went to the car and continued to pack things in. The “stuff” just seems to multiply. [And by the way, the word “Stuff” is actually a Biblical term used by Jesus in his teachings. See Luke 17:31 – even back to the beginning of time … See Genesis 31:37] We were already tight but I managed to find tight spaces to put everything. We still had a stack that we left for Sister Ballard to take to the missionary D.I. for us. We also left another box of food for her. After I got all of the stuff in the car, we worked together to strap on the two bikes.
Lou did some more cleaning and got the place in good shape. Elder Burr came as the district leader to check us out of the place. This was his first such check-out as a new D.L.. Elder Cox (who lives across the street north) on his bike. We asked him to take a photo of us.
Above: Elder Kevin and Sister Lou with car packed and ready to leave the Nauvoo Simeon A. Dunn home heading home to Arizona
I had taken photos of the vehicle and the clean house and this one was of the packed car with the Dunn home in the back.
Above: We left a spotless Dunn home as we departed
We also took a selfie out front of the house- with the Dunn home sign behind us – and holding our “Elder Kevin and Sister Lou Dene Hunt” sign that has been in our front window through our mission.
Above: Elder Kevin and Sister Lou in final Nauvoo photo taken October 13, 2025
Elder and Sister McArthur (our neighbors to the south) came and brought us some snack candy for the road. We appreciated this gift. We later took them a half gallon of milk.
At this point, we were all ready to leave for Maricopa and home. I had wanted to leave about 8:00 but it was right at 10:00 AM when we pulled out. I posted several departure photos for the kids.
AND THEN THAT TERRIBLE MOMENT CAME …
A new post might begin, “Farewell Nauvoo … homeward bound”. We had a prayer of thanksgiving for the glorious mission that has been ours. I gave the prayer and got choked up somewhat in doing it. Sister Hunt noticed it and she felt the same way. It was very sad to be leaving. This mission had been such a joyful time. We were and are grateful for the blessing of being in beautiful Nauvoo.
And a side note: In our desert land of Arizona, we are not blessed to experience Fall and the changing leaves. We loved the new experience of Fall in Nauvoo in 2024. We had hoped to again see those changing leaves before we departed Nauvoo but such was not to be the case. The weather was fabulous and beautiful but that meant too that we missed the orange and red leaves. I guess we can’t have everything!
OUR NAUVOO EXODUS BEGINS
And with that, we were off. We drove south to Keokuk – along the river route that we have been on probably 75 times (at least) but this green highway never gets old. It is one of the prettiest drives I have ever been on.
We went to the Walmart gas station and filled our tank. We had to back-track a bit to get to 7th street where we needed to turn south. We got on the Highway 136 and drove on this highway for a hundred or so miles.
This was very much a country road – just a 2-lane road. The scenery of the green rolling hills, the fields, and the country farm homes – was all gorgeous. I loved the drive. We went 60 miles per hour – and I didn’t want to go faster than that with our load anyway.
We crossed through the north end of Missouri and kind of went straight across. We then crossed into Kansas. (So we went through 4 states today – Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, and Kansas.)
We talked along the way with our children Jackie, Kaylea, Rusty and Marinda. (We talked to Lana at the hotel). We also listened to some of the recent General Conference of the Church.
We continued through the day with the goal of ending up in Great Bend, Kansas. There were no rest stops except near the end of the day. We had plenty of munchies – mostly sweets – to eat all of the way.
We stopped for gas at Abilene, Kansas. We got gas for just $2.22 per gallon – for premium. Wow! It has been years since I have seen gas for that low of a price. We stopped there for dinner at Subway and got good sandwiches.
WE SPENT THE NIGHT IN METROPOLITAN GREAT BEND, KANSAS
We arrived at the Quality Inn in Great Bend. We got checked in and went to our room 120.
Above: Our car looked marvelous in the moonlight of the Quality Inn in Great Bend, Kansas
The room was very nice but was very much lacking adequate lighting. We made it one third of our way home. We plan to go right at 500 miles each of the three days. This equates to right at 8 hours per day.
I got onto my computer and typed my journal entry for the day. I was behind on my writing. I did not write while Rusty and Fabriza were with us. I wanted to type more but the lighting in the hotel was atrocious. There were very small lamps on each side of the bed but no large central light. I finally had to abandon the hope of getting caught up on the journals since I could not read my index cards of notes.
We were surprised to receive a message tonight from Sister Mehr:
“Elder and Sister Hunt, we miss you already! Thank you for your incredible service—your incredibly productive service! We have loved learning from you both and serving together in such a sacred experience—with so much fun as well!
“We are both so grateful to you for the plentiful histories, the great information, the delicious treats, and just your company. We love you and are privileged to call you friends!
“Drive safely, and please stay in touch!
Much love!”
OCTOBER 14TH – TUESDAY (The journal continues …)
Day 2 of our westward journey …
We went to bed last night at 11 PM. I awoke this morning at 4:30 AM and could not really get back to sleep. This was frustrating. I did get up at my now usual time of 6:15 AM. Lou decided to get her shower first so that she could “work on her hair and make-up”.
Lou listened to the news station morning and learned that there was intense local fog that was to last until 9 AM. So, this being the case, I was not in a hurry to get out of the door. We only planned to drive for eight hours today so we didn’t need to hurry.
I spent a while working on my journal and completed writing from two days of notes. This was good. I needed only to write from one more note card.
We went and ate breakfast at the hotel “mini kitchen”. They had a decent breakfast. I got a small pastry roll, a really nice crisp waffle, orange juice, a yogurt, and some sausage. Lou had sausage, eggs, and a bagel.
Last night we noticed a Walmart store located across the street from the Quality Inn hotel where we stayed. We decided to go there to buy some snack goodies for our trip. (Wouldn’t the real pioneers have loved that opportunity!) It was a good thing that we saw the store sign last night. This morning it was totally invisible in the fog. We bought some grapes, a bakery package of banana walnut bread (so yummy), Pringles chips, a carton of lemonade, and a package of “thin mints” (chocolate cookies with a greet mint layer – and I have never seen such a “thin mint”. The name said it all!) We enjoyed munching on all of these items through the day. It was a good thing that we had these items because on the road that we travelled, we hardly saw a store or food joint all day.
FOLLOWING THE MORMON BATTALION ON THE SANTA FE TRAIL
For nearly 40 years, I have been a member of the “modern” Mormon Battalion.
Above: Kevin Hunt as member of the “modern” Mormon Battalion
The original Battalion traveled directly through what is now our town of Maricopa, Arizona. And about eighteen miles west of Maricopa is where the Battalion spent their bleak Christmas of 1846.
Above: Mormon Battalion “Christmas Camp” site – Christmas 1846 near Maricopa, Arizona
Battalion members were quite destitute at that point. Their clothes were “thread-bare” and their diet scant at best. They were literally saved by the Pima-Maricopa Indians who cared for them with pumpkins, squash and the like.
For most of those 40 years local Boy Scouts camped and hiked at the “Christmas Camp”. Our dedicated Battalion group staged campfire programs virtually every weekend from October (when the heat finally subsided) through April (when the heat hit again). In these programs we shared the story, faith and sacrifice of the original Battalion.
Above: Wagon ruts along the Mormon Battalion Trail in Arizona
I did not have the time to help much on these programs but I did make a major personal commitment in another way. After the Scouts had experienced the above out on the trail, and after they achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, Battalion members went to their Eagle Courts of Honor and presented a classy bull skull neckerchief slide. I believe that I made about 150 or more of those presentations through the years.
Above: Scouter Kevin Hunt making presentation of buffalo skull neckerchief skull to new Eagle Scouts
Above: Mormon Battalion buffalo skull neckerchief slide presented to new Eagle Scouts
So it is obvious that I loved the Mormon Battalion. And being also an avid historian, I wanted to combine the two.
As I anticipated our return home, I realized that the most direct route might be to follow the route taken by those hearty soldiers of the U.S. Army of the West (in the Mexican-American War between Mexico and the United States). On one of our church history immersion trips with the young sister missionaries I had picked up a brochure with a map of the Battalion route. I looked at it and it was perfect. It was exactly where we needed to go.
Above: Route taken by the Mormon Battalion 1846 from Ft. Leavenworth, Kansas to California
The Battalion was mustered into service at Ft. Leavenworth, Kansas – near our modern day Kansas City. Our first night hotel was carefully calculated along the Mormon Battalion trail just past Kansas City. I had to find just the right place to stay – to equalize out our travel days home. And another challenge was to find hotels along that route. They were kind of few and far between.
ALONG THE MORMON BATTALION TRAIL
I learned that the Battalion route almost exactly followed the historic Santa Fe Trail – that began westward from Independence. As we drove, I looked all along the way for signs or markers about the Battalion. I found one that commemorated the Santa Fe Trail.
The Journal for Tuesday, October 14 records: We left the town of Great Bend this morning heading for Santa Fe, New Mexico. The fog continued for another couple of hours. We were really on a remote road. We were almost the only folks on our side of the road. We only saw three or four other cars going our way. There were many more on the other side.
We drove through Kansas, then through a small corner of Oklahoma, and then into New Mexico. We followed the famed Santa Fe Trail. I had selected this route since it was also the approximate route of the Mormon Battalion. I hoped to find Battalion markers all along the way. In this I was disappointed, however. We did stop at many markers along the way but we did not find a single one about the Battalion. This was a major disappointment.
The drive was mostly quite bland – with little foliage or other excitement – other than some herds of cows. The countryside looked very much like the Indian reservation in northern Arizona – on our route up the Kaibab Mountain and into Utah. We missed the corn fields and other beautiful green rolling hills of Missouri as we had experienced yesterday.
We drove for right at 500 miles today – as we did yesterday – and as we will do again tomorrow. The Google maps said that the distance from Nauvoo to Maricopa is 1,501 miles. I was able to plan the trip so that we had three equal driving days – within minutes of each other.
I drove most of the way. I did have Lou drive for an hour so that I could take a nap. And this was wonderful.
Lou was in a major panic all day – stressed about traffic (or lack thereof … the threat of a break down out in the middle of nowhere), the rain, the fog, and more.
She clung to her phone and kept us on track with her navigation skills. I greatly appreciated her help but was a bit challenged by her OCD attention to obvious details, signs, and situations. She was a good navigator.
We had a one hour time change – so we got to our destination an hour earlier – but paid for it through a longer overall day.
President Oaks put out a message to all Church members of the world. He invited us to a special broadcast in which the new First Presidency would be announced. This was to be at 1:00 Pm (Utah time) and 2:00 PM our time. We had difficulty getting the broadcast so we didn’t actually get to hear it. This was a disappointment.
Above: New First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced October 14, 2025. President and Prophet Dallin H. Oaks (Center), Pres. Henry B. Eyring (left – 1st counselor, and Pres. D. Todd Christofferson – (right – 2nd Counselor)
Later we found the news that he had been ordained today as the 18th Prophet of this dispensation. The news did not say that Elder Jeffrey R. Holland would have been voice in the ordination but he is second to President Oaks in seniority. He will be the new President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (not just the “acting president” while President Oaks was in the Presidency with President Nelson). President Oaks picked as his counselors Elder Henry B. Eyring (who was 2nd counselor to Pres. Hinckley, 1st counselor to Pres. Monson, 2nd counselor to Pres. Nelson- and who will now again be 1st Counselor. He picked Elder D. Todd Christofferson as his new 2nd Counselor. Elder C. was kind of a surprise pick – though he will be great.
President Oaks is age 93 and Pres. Eyring is 92. Elder Holland is 84. None of these men are in good health. Many are showing signs of their advanced age. These brethren will likely all be gone within five years. Sad thought! Elder Christofferson is the “young buck” at age 80.
Along our way today we listened to several talks from General Conference. I liked the talk by Elder Uchtdorff about talents and Elder Rasband’s message about the “Family Proclamation”.
We experienced quite heavy fog as we were about an hour and a half from our Santa Fe destination. This was sad since the scenery along the way – possibly even mountains – looked gorgeous. We were sad that we could not see the beautiful country. I think that this was my first time through this country.
The fog lifted about 15 miles from Santa Fe and this was wonderful. By then, however, we had descended down into a less vegetated area. As we approached Santa Fe, I quickly noted what a beautiful city it is. I was impressed with the Spanish and South Western theme of the buildings, businesses, etc. The rolling hills and trees were all beautiful.
Above: The Inn at Santa Fe – the Inn where we spent the night en route home. A wonderful place!
We got checked into our hotel. We stayed in “The Inn at Santa Fe”. I soon learned to really like this place. It is decorated in a southwest theme. The room was quite nicely arranged. We got a room (#312) with a single queen bed but it is nicely furnished. And it had quite a bit more available light than we had last night.
As we headed toward Santa Fe, my taste buds were anticipating some great Santa Fe Mexican food. I figured that they would have the best. After we got checked into our room, we went to a little hole in the wall Mexican food place that Google recommended to us after we asked for “The best Mexican food near the Best Western Hotel in Santa Fe”) This place was called, “El Comal“. This was a little family run business that has been going since 1977. I got a combinacion plate with a tamale, a hard taco, cheese enchilada, and rice and beans. The tamale had been around a while and was not fresh. I am not into cheese so did not get into the enchilada. The other items were good. And the sopapilla was very impressive. It was about 8 inches long and was wonderful with honey. That made the meal.
Above: Elder Kevin and Lou Hunt eating Mexican food en route home from mission. Note the “Mormon Battalion” bolo tie worn by Elder Hunt
Back at the hotel room, we tried to find a TV show to watch but were disappointed with the lack in what we saw. Lou worked on her own journal for a while. I typed my entry for this past Sunday. I continued writing for today’s activities – even after Lou went to bed (10:30 Nauvoo time and 9:30 New Mexico time).
I got something in my right eye and this bothered me for several hours today. I tried eye drops, washing out my eye, using a damp cloth, etc. but nothing seemed to help.
JUST ONE MORE DAY HOME TO OUR MARICOPA
It was Wednesday, October 15, and I recorded: We awoke this morning at the beautiful Inn at Santa Fe. I loved this impressive place and its southwest theme décor. The goal for the day was to get home. Last night Lou said, “What hotel are we staying at tomorrow?” She wanted to get her GPS directions going. I said, “We are staying at the HuOnt hotel tomorrow.” She laughed and said, “Oh, yeah …”. So funny!
This morning we packed up our things and used a hotel cart to cart all of the stuff downstairs to the car.
We went to breakfast at the hotel. This was an amazing breakfast. I found one entrée interesting … beans with green chili on the side – perfect for Southwest Santa Fe. I was all over that one! Great stuff!
We were soon on our way. Today was our final travel day home. We got gas at a Love’s station in Albuquerque – $3.17 per gallon … the highest we have paid in many months. We traveled on I-25 south to Albuquerque and then west on the I-40 through New Mexico and then on into Arizona. We turned south on Highway 277 toward Payson.
WE FINALLY FOUND A MORMON BATTALION MARKER
All along our way, we continued to check out markers – hoping to find some about the Mormon Battalion. We found absolutely none. We found many markers about the Santa Fe Trail that we were following. Finally this morning we saw a large highway sign advertising a Battalion monument. We took the exit but could not find the monument. Lou got stressed as I drove on a couple of dirt roads (with our loaded car) in search of the monument. I then looked it up on Google and saw that it was in our area – and that it was 20 feet tall – with a wagon on the top of the monument. I recognized the monument – located about 100 yards – at least from the I-25 freeway. And there appeared to be no exit opportunity anywhere around.
Above: Mormon Battalion monument as we sped by on the I-25 freeway from Santa Fe to Albuquerque, New Mexico
There appeared to be no easy road to the monument so I had to settle for a zoom photo taken by Lou – and what I found on-line.
The original monument was located “32 miles north of Albuquerque on Highway 85.”[1] The 1996 monument is located “five miles northeast of San Felipe Pueblo, New Mexico […] near the dead end of a road reached via exit 257 on Interstate 25.”[2] It is located off a frontage road along the north side of Interstate 25.[3]
WELCOME TO ARIZONA
Getting closer to home!
GETTING A&W ROOT BEER FOR KEITH
We stopped in the lovely (not) town of Holbrook. We got gas again there. We stopped at the A&W Root Beer stand there. I think there are only a couple of A&W stands left in the whole state of Arizona and one of them is in metropolitan Holbrook. At least there is one positive thing about Holbrook. We bought a glass for Lou and me to share and also a gallon to give to Keith. He loves A&W root beer. It did taste pretty fabulous. It has been a long time since we have had A&W root beer.
The road 260 across the Mongollon Rim to Payson was beautiful, as ever. I love driving through the pine trees.
Above: The majestic Mongollon Rim near Payson, Arizona
At the town of Payson, we stopped at Walmart and did drink and drain. We then headed down the mountains from Payson toward home.
WE STOPPED EN ROUTE TO SEE JACKIE AND FAMILY
Jackie invited us to stop at her place for dinner on our way home. She made pulled pork sandwiches (on her homemade wheat buns), a cabbage salad, and chips. They greeted us with a large poster that said, “Nauvoo Busted”. (When we left for the mission their sign said, “Nauvoo or Bust”.)
We called Jackie to see if the family wanted to come outside for a photo with the sign. No answer … And then all three Bowles boys jumped up from hiding behind the 3’ wall in their front yard. They waved colorful banners. It was a fun surprise. It was great to see the family once again. We saw most of the family at Bryson and Annie’s wedding in June but Blake was not there. He had gone to EFY (or FSY) that week. Also, Michael was not there. So, we have not seen Blake or Michael since July of last year (2024) when they came to Nauvoo. Blake had grown quite a bit taller. He had just had a fresh new and very tight hair perm. They showed us a documentary about bee hives.
We then headed on home. By this time, it was dark. (It gets dark earlier than in Nauvoo. Arizona does not go on “daylight savings time”. Arizona is two hours “behind” Nauvoo. (So 7 PM in Nauvoo would be 5 PM in Arizona.)
We were kind of out of practice about roads to take home from Jackie’s. We got stuck in really stagnant traffic on the Highway #347. (Things have not changed!) The traffic was backed up totally from the I-10 freeway clear into Maricopa. This was long and frustrating. We certainly did not miss this horrible road while on our mission to Nauvoo (with the very quiet and mellow traffic).
We started to go to Keith’s house to deliver his root beer to him but as we were on the phone, our kids said that he was not at home. With this news, I “smelled a rat” thinking that the family might be gathered at our home. Kaylea (ready for the Zoom call) called to see what was taking us so long to get to our place. We soon found ourselves on a Zoom conference call with all of the out-of-town family members. The Zoom crowd included Kaylea and JD and family, Bryson and Annie, Lana and family, Dallin, and Jenae. It was fun to see them.
WE JOINED A WELCOME HOME PARADE
As we pulled onto our street from Porter – onto Iron Point Road, we noted the massive apartment complex which was completed on the corner as we were gone. When we left. The foundations for the structures were just being poured. These are visible over houses on our street to the east of us.
As we rounded the corner onto the little street just east of us, we soon discovered a plethora of our family members (in the dark). They were causing quite a stir with their noise and the signs that they were all carrying. I am sure that the neighbors were all wondering if they were about to have an invasion. It may have sounded that way. Each child had made his/her own sign – and these looked wonderful. Stuart and maybe others – took a video of the parade – and it was fun to see the fun that everyone was having. Excitement was at a high peak.
The parade followed us (or vice versa) to our own home on Plata Street. We happily greeted and hugged each family member. The assembled group included Keith and Kayla and their eight children, Marinda and Mike and their seven children, Larissa and Stu and their two boys, too. It was a joyous occasion to greet our loving family after being away from them for so long.
Above: Welcome home sign by Oliver
We greeted each family member with their own hug – and this was good for all. I tried to make sure that I greeted each one. Each of the children was proud of the signs that they had made. It was fun to see them all.
Above: Welcome Home signs by family
Kayla had made a large sign for the front of the house – and which was hung on the garage door. This was actually two long banner signs. The top sign said, “This is the Place” and the other said, “Welcome Home” (and it had a small house in between the words).
Above: Welcome home Elder Kevin and Sister Lou Hunt
I liked others that were made by Larissa and that said, “Served with Love, Returning with Honor”. and “Nauvoo … forever in our hearts”.
Our neighbor, William Phelps heard all of the commotion and realized that we had arrived home. He surprised us both with a hug. Interesting reaction from him! We are grateful for his repair of our sprinkler head once when the pipe burst recently.
It was also interesting to see the yard. We didn’t see much in the back but we checked out the front. The central willow tree had grown to be enormous – even higher than the house. The Chinese Pistache tree is marvelous. It has done well.
We went inside the home and were kind of in awe of the place. It looked so huge after our small Dunn home in Nauvoo. We were pleased to see our three new couches that we bought and which were delivered in our absence.
We had sent our other couches home with Larissa and Stu – and their dogs, too. We have a new WIFI provider. Larissa and Stu cleaned the place and did a great job. (They lived here in our absence for over a year. They moved at the end of May and got into their own place that is near to us.)
All of the family members were anxious to help us unpack the car – so we let them go for it. I pulled the great amount of “stuff” from the car and gave it to each family member – who also formed a long chain to get the “stuff” into the house. I tried to find just the right size and weight of packages for each child. Little Elliot – age two – was particularly pleased with the small fry pan that I gave him to carry in. With all of the many helpers, we soon had the car unpacked.
Above: Elliot doing his part carrying small pan
Above: Car stuff piled in the living room (front view) How did we get all of this “stuff” into our wagon coming west from Nauvoo?
We were all amazed at the at the large quantity of “stuff” that we had packed into the car. Lou could not believe that I had fit it all in. There was a large stack of “stuff” on the kitchen table, another in the living room and another in our bedroom.
Above: More stuff piled in the bedroom
It was about 8 Pm when we arrived at our home. It was a school night so the families did not stay real long after the unpacking. It was great to have their help and it was really great to be home with them all once again.
TRYING TO GET SETTLED … AT LEAST FOR THE FIRST NIGHT HOME
We decided to make a late-night trip to Walmart to buy much needed supplies. It cost us $174. Lou noted that it was like “starting over” since we had to buy standard stuff – like Hunt’s Ketchup, mayonnaise, mustard, paper plates, toilet paper, and much more.
While at the store we saw Scott Moore, the stake Executive Secretary. He surprised Lou when he said, “You guys must have just got home”. He had communicated with me previously about a possible time for us to be released from the Mission by President Weyroach. This president is to be released on Sunday and Scott does not know if he will release us or if the release will happen with the new president. It is a logistical thing for them – it really does not matter much to us.
In our mail today we received a reimbursement check from the Church for our expenses relative to our return trip home. It was based on a set formula for all missionaries and the mileage from the mission to home. Our mileage was 1,501 miles. Per the formula we were paid mileage at 22 cents per mile, and money for hotel stays and food en route. I think our actual expanses were about $500. I need to add up the receipts.
After I wrote the above paragraph, I added up the figures. We spent $196.30 on gas for the trip. This was 72.25 gallons. Dividing this figure into the 1,500 miles means that we averaged 20.76 miles per gallon – even with the very heavy load on our wagon – and going about 65 miles per hour much of the way. We spent only $90.32 new money on food and snacks. But we started the journey with many snacks which we already had. We spent $200 on hotels. So we spent a total of $487.22 for the entire trip. Not bad!
Above: Front bedroom full of stuff – no mattress even in sight
Our own bed mattress was buried really deep in the front bedroom. We looked at the room and decided it was not worth trying to un-bury it. It was just too much work. We therefore decided to sleep on the queen sized air mattress in our own bedroom. Lou set this up between the boards of our big bed frame (that had held Larissa and Stu’s own mattress) – and so the sideboards kind of held the air mattress in without it “wobbling” of bouncing with each turn. This actually worked quite well. It was actually quite comfortable!
THE MORNING AFTER – THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16TH
At the end of the day, I recorded: We were kind of tired last night so I set the alarm to go off at 7:45 AM. We actually slept to 7:15 AM. This was good.
I went right to work on the house. I first cleaned all three toilets. I then began to go through many of the boxes, bags, and suitcases that were piled high. I dealt with a multitude of items. I put these things away and then took the next items and put them away. In the process I pulled out all of my western shirts that I had stored away in my “office” before we left. I got my own closet stuff all organized.
Above: “The “office/museum” room stuffed full
Above: The front bedroom full of stuff
I set up my computer on the desktop that folds down and opens on our new couch. The desk is between two recliner seats. It is a great place to do my computer work. I also set up a small folding table (same brown color as the new couches) and on this I put my computer printer. It will be nice to have this right next to me as I sit on the couch at my computer. Looks like a great “office”. (I have “my side” and Lou has “her side”. It is truly great!)
Above: New “Couch offices” for Kevin and Lou. Fabulous!
I worked on the switches that go to the overhead lights, the printer, and the computer and got them all in order and functioning well. I really love this new desk arrangement. It is glorious and wonderful. It will be very comfortable and efficient for me to work at. The two recliner seats are also amazing. They will recline about ten ways. We tested them out last night. I told Lou that she will have a lot of nice options as she sleeps through Hallmark movies each night. (She said, “You too!)
Above: The new living room arrangement
I worked at my tasks through the whole morning and until about 1:30 PM. Larissa was kind enough to come to help Lou work on her kitchen and getting it put back together.
Above: Kitchen mess awaiting organization
Most of our kitchen stuff (except for what we took to Nauvoo) had been packed in the front bedroom – around the sewing cabinet. It was nice to get this stuff out of that room. They worked for two or three hours on the project and made good progress – but there is still much more to do.
Larissa left for a while to get Oliver from his little pre-school. He attends this school – taught alternatively by Larissa’s friends. He goes two days each week and the ladies take turns being the teacher and hosting the activity. This seems to work well for all. Larissa fed Oliver and then they both came back to our place for more kitchen organization. I enjoyed visiting with Oliver – the guy with “the 4-year old brain” as he says. He is a fun and a funny little guy (in what he says).
We went to the nearby town of Ahwatukee to watch Sienna play volleyball. We were traumatized by traffic at the 347 at Queen Creek Road entrance to the I-10 freeway. It was really backed up. We opted to go clear around on Price Road and then north. This was likely a mistake. We did finally make it to the beautiful and fabulous Desert Vista High School where Sienna now attends. We were late in arriving and missed the first set which Sienna and her team played and lost. We got to watch the second set – which they won. Both of these games went to 25 points. The teams then had to play a final match – to 15 points. This was a tight set and either team could have won. Ultimately Sienna’s team won 17-15.
Momma Lou was traumatized over the prospect of another night on the 347 Highway back to Maricopa. I suggested that we stall for time – to let the “rush hour” finish its course and that we could go out to dinner. I took Lou to the Cracker Barrel restaurant at Chandler Heights at the I-10 freeway. We missed Cracker Barrel while on our mission – since the nearest such place was 75-100 miles from Nauvoo. It was great to be back there once again.
We did not know it was, but we learned that it was Thursday Turkey Dinner night. This was wonderful. Lou and I both got this meal. I got carrots and mashed potatoes with my turkey, dressing, and cranberry. A great meal.
Back at home, Lou continued to slave over her kitchen. She and Larissa had earlier washed everything down so that everything would be clean to go back into the drawers and cupboards. Lou put the stuff into those places. She still has a lot to do, however. So much stuff and so little space in which to put it all.
Lou also did a search for her waffle irons (plural). She needs them to prepare waffles for the Roller children whom we are to tend tomorrow night. Sadie maintains that mini-waffle making is a big part of the traditional activities that we stage for them when we are sitting them as their parents are out.
I sent out several thank you notes to folks who assisted last night in the welcome home gathering. We seriously have the best family! They made us feel special. It was great to be back home amongst them once again.
Lou finished her kitchen project by finding a home for everything from the counter.
Above: Our kitchen in renewed glory
She sat down to try out the new couch recliner. She tried it in various ways that it reclines. She said, “With this couch, I may never see another Hallmark Movie again!”
GETTING RIGHT BACK INTO OUR GRANDPA AND GRANDMA DUTIES
On Friday, less than two days home, we got right back into the grandparent duties. We went to the Pima Butte School and there met Larissa and Oliver as well as Marinda and Mike – with Sadie (who is off school on Fridays), Rosalie, Elliot, and Maylee. The occasion was honor roll certificates to achieving students of the first quarter. In the 9 AM gathering, Samuel (3rd grade) was recognized with the “Principal List” designation for getting straight A grades. We then stayed for the 9:30 gathering wherein Cali was recognized on the A/B list for getting all A’s and B’s. She got all A’s except for one B. We were proud of each of them.
Larissa came back and was here all afternoon. She and Lou put up a lot of Lou’s clothes that were packaged up in the vacuum bags. They brought many items out of the front bedroom. Larissa also brought us burritos for lunch. Oliver kept me entertained with his funny words. Such a funny boy.
The kids have been looking forward to tonight. Whenever we talked to Grant he mentioned that we were going to tend them on the 17th.
Marinda missed us as we were gone – since they have seldom been able to have a date night (without paying huge bucks for a sitter) in our absence. (We are often their sitters!) In Nauvoo, we talked of our coming home. She thought that we would want a few weeks or something before we would be up for tending. She was thrilled when I suggested the 17th – just two days after our return.
Larissa and Oliver left soon after 3:00 PM. She needed to go get Andy from school. Marinda brought the seven kids soon after 4:00 PM. The place was still in a trauma but they were able to make it through the maze. The kids were happy to be here.
Upon arrival, the kids went straight to the “kid’s room” to play with the toys. Lou and Larissa had found most of the toys and there were toys in both rooms. They had a grand time playing together. Elliot brought me a plethora of stuffed animals for me to tell him what animal they were.
These grandchildren – and particularly Sadie – have known the whole routine which we follow when we have them over here at our place. She listed the many things that we usually do with them. So, per the list, Lou made them mini-waffles.
The kids loved these. I think that Grant (age 6) ate 22 of them!
We sat Maylee in a toddler seat and perched her atop of the dining table. I fed her applesauce, the waffles, and a banana (all in small pieces) as she perched there. She seemed to love the food also.
Earlier in the day, I had pulled out the trolley bike. This is a “quadricycle” that has four wheels, seats 11 with 2 babies or toddlers, and has six spots for peddlers. Oliver watched as I sprayed it down with water. It had collected a lot of dust. It cleaned up nicely. The lights did not work but everything else was normal. It was ready for riding. The kids were super excited and anxious to get on board. Their family size worked well for the available seats.
Above: 7 Roller children on Kevin and Lou’s Quadricycle
Typically we would have taken a trek on the Quad to McDonald’s (located about a half mile north of us) but Lou’s hip has been sore (and we are out of shape – having not exercised at all while in Nauvoo) and she did not want to go on an extended ride. We chose instead to pedal over to the little HOA park (located a couple of blocks north of us). We had fun on this trek. It was nice to have some older kids to help with the pedaling.
The kids were all excited about going to the park and they got right into it. Even little Maylee (just barely a year old) climbed up the play structure.
As we were there, a lady and her son came and talked to us. Her boy had seen our apparatus and was excited to see some “friends” to play with. He came and blended in with the kids. His name is Justin and he is about age 4. The lady was friendly. She said her name is Shay. We went to introduce ourselves and without thinking otherwise, I said “We are Elder and Sister Hunt”. (It was dark, but we had our name tags on – since we have not yet been released. Shay said that she is a member of the church. She lives in a home across the street from the park). She said that she and her non-member husband, Eric, had just moved in recently. I pulled up the ward directory and she and the two kids were listed there. She said that her husband has taken the missionary lessons two or three times and that they had recently met with the missionaries (Elders) and that he has been to church with her.
Of course I saw this as a missionary opportunity and so we invited them to come to dinner (in a couple of weeks after our lives stabilize a bit). She acted excited with the invitation. I look forward to having them come. I hope that we can hit it off with the husband.
We came home and Lou changed a messy diaper of Elliot. After she had changed him, he stood up and gave her a kiss of thank you. This surprised and pleased Lou.
We loaded up all of the kids into our wagon. Two kids had to share one seatbelt. We drove over to McDonald’s (about a half mile away) and went inside for ice cream cones. We caused quite a scene with our crowd. I bought cones for everyone – including Maylee. The kids were all pleased with the large size of the cones. Elliot (age 2) got big happy eyes as I handed him the cone. He thought he was big stuff. This was a fun activity.
Back at home, I gathered the kids around on one of our new couches. I read to them.
Above: Kevin reading to Roller children (inserting all of their names while reding and then a “bump on the head” to each one at the end of each book – per our tradition)
We had found some great pop-up books at the Fudge Factory in Nauvoo (on sale for just 50 cents each) and I read these four books to them. I even managed to stay awake as I read. Sadie in her list of things that we do said that they try to keep Grandpa awake during reading (and she said that they were thinking of ways on how they might keep me awake). I inserted their names as I read and this pleased them. I also did the “bump on the head” after each book. It was fun to read to them again.
We then let them watch a movie (also on the list). I had climbed up into the mountain of stuff in the front bedroom and had been able to pull the living room rug out from against the back wall. Lou was pleased that we had it for the kids. They loved being able to stretch out on the floor and the couches.
They picked the Disney “Aladdin” movie to watch. The kids were glued to the movie – as usual – and were really into it. I had a bit of a nap on my new couch. This new couch desk is way too comfortable. I fear that I will have this sleeping problem many times in the future.
We were grateful for the help of Larissa in getting the TV operational – after returning home – and with new WIFI for the home. She worked with Kaylea (via phone) to get all of the movie connections set up for us.
Mike and Marinda arrived back at our home about 11:30 PM. They had a fun night out together. They first went to the Mesa Temple and did a few sealing ordinances. I had found just a few names for them to do. They were there with just one other couple. They then hurried off to the Hale Theater in Gilbert – and arrived less than 10 minutes before the show of “Singing in the Rain” began. They love going to this place and Mike’s parents had given them tickets to see a show. They did not have money to go out to eat but Lou had cooked pot pies for them and gave them the pot pies, Hawaiian rolls, and a fruit salad (and Alyicia’s cupcakes) as a take-out meal on their way to Gilbert.
While Lou was fixing Mike’s pants, he went to our washroom and hooked up the washer and dryer units. This made Lou very happy. They were stored in the garage most of the time while we were gone since Larissa and Stu had their own units. Mike found a lot of dust in the units.
So, with all of the above, it was about 12:30 PM (Arizona time) when the family was able to make their departure.
We had a great time with the kids. They got along well and had big smiles in every photo that Lou took of them through the night. We were happy that we could tend for the folks and that they got a night out. They have not had many of those as we have been away.
Fun to be back with the grandkids! We have all missed that association.
MORE GRAND TIMES WITH THE GRANDS
On Saturday, Sister Hunt and I arose early and drove back to Tempe (about 40 miles north of Maricopa). We joined Jackie and family for a “mud run” out in the town of Apache Junction. We took great photos but avoided the mud. We stayed until the afternoon and went to a basketball game starring Caleb. He is getting pretty good at this sports stuff.
From the mud bog, Lou and I and Jackie went to watch Caleb play in a basketball game. That boy is all about sports.
Above: Kevin and Lou with grandson Caleb – my younger “twin” as a basketball star
We got back in the afternoon in time to tend once again for Mike and Marinda. This time they went to the afternoon leadership session of our stake conference.
OUR FIRST MEETING WITH THE HOME SAINTS
Then in the evening, Lou and I went to the stake center (still wearing missionary nametags – since we have not been released yet).
Upon arrival, we saw Kirk Evans of the Hidden Valley Ward. We exchanged “Greetings!” (My trademark word of 50 years.) We also saw our Bishop Scoresby. He said, “It looks as if you are taking up where you left off.” (Whatever that means!) Larissa was there ahead of us and she saved a couple of seats for us. On our same row were Mark and Emily Leavitt – our 3rd cousins. She came over and said that she had to hug Aunt Lou and Uncle Kevin. She calls us that to her children. Mark came over and I greeted him as “brother/cousin”. I got a great hug out of him. Later, after the meeting, we were greeted by another cousin – Ken Barnum – and another hug. He said that he read all of my missionary blog articles and enjoyed them.
After the meeting we talked to Brother Tom Bogle of our Bishopric. He said that they have been talking already of places for us to serve as we now have returned. We talked of their missionary son, Karston, who is serving in Mexico. We talked to Brother and Sister Burgoyne for a while. Lyle Hamblin talked to me for a bit. It was really fun to see all of these people and they seemed happy to see us. Brother Burgoyne said how much of an impression we have made on them and “the stake” through our willingness to serve and the way that we have been totally committed in our callings. This was a great compliment. We were Activity Day Leaders to their one son and it sounds as if he really loved us. We had his little brother for just a short while and I guess he has been sad at times when his brother talks of the good times with us.
A while ago I discovered a gift card for the Coldstone Ice Cream place. I called the number and found that there is still a balance of $38 on it. We had earlier determined to go there after the meeting and we invited Larissa to go along with us – to help eat up the balance. She was happy to go with us. (Stu had remained home with the boys.) It was funny that we saw Mark and Emily there also.
As we walked in, a little Spanish girl saw me in my checkered blue suit and she asked, “Are you the President? [of the United States]?” I replied that “no, I am not the president but I am a missionary for our church”. Her father was “Manny” and he said that he is a “Christian” in nearby Casa Grande.
I ordered “apple pie viva Coldstone” and this turned out to be fabulous. It had apple slices, cinnamon, and graham crackers “pounded” into the French Vanilla ice cream. I had them add pecans. And Wow! This was amazing and wonderful. That might just have to be my next go-to ice cream (since I will miss the Turtle sundae in Keokuk!)
Back at home, I worked for quite a while on the mission news history. I worked to copy and paste large group photos onto the cover page as well as many representing the FM missionaries onto 3 FM pages. Still doing missionary tasks – even at home … but we do still have our nametags on. No release in sight!
A NEW STAKE PRESIDENCY
On our first Sunday home, we went to our stake conference. Again we saw some more friends. And we sustained a new stake presidency – with Addison Horst as the new stake president.
We went wearing our missionary nametags. We still have not been released. I am sure that the old and new stake presidencies have been rather busy. We are not in a rush. I am sure that it will happen all too soon.
Back at home, I worked again on the August mission news history. I worked on a couple of pages about the Hawaiian luau that we staged on August 8th. Between Lou and me, we had quite a few good photos of that busy night.
Lou worked to unpack vacuumed bags in the bedroom. She got rid of many of the bags. The bedroom now looks amazingly “open”. I appreciated her efforts.
CONTINUING THE QUEST TO GET UNPACKED
Over the next several days, Lou and I worked all day many days to put “stuff” away. We both worked really hard at the tasks – and we wore ourselves out. I set up our Nauvoo bench – with the bench that I found on-line in Tempe and which Michael picked up for me. This bench has some boxes at the bottom and these spaces will work great for my Nauvoo books. boxes. I barely had enough space for the many books.
Above: Hunt bedroom – with Nauvoo hats on the corner rack!
We also got our bedroom set up. Lou cleared the mattress in the front bedroom so we were able to move our own mattress back onto our frame in the bedroom. I was able to get the bedroom shelves and end tables out of the “office” and into the bedroom. It was very nice to get our bedroom back into operation. It has been a while.
We pulled “stuff” from the two front rooms. This “stuff” has been stored there – floor to ceiling in both rooms – as we were And Lou did a multitude of loads of washing laundry. Late in the day Lou pointed to two large vacuum bags. I had thought that I was done with “my stuff”. After she found the bags, I said, “I don’t want any more bags.”
On Monday I noted that we were both exhausted after the work of the day and I knew that Lou did not feel like cooking a meal for us. We decided to go out to eat – and we both wanted the relatively new “Slim Chickens” restaurant which is located across the tracks by McDonalds. We got a 7-piece meal and shared it. This was like the meal that we get at “Raising Canes” – but it was cheaper than Cane’s. We were able to eat for less than $20 for the two of us. The chicken, toast, and French fries were wonderful – as was the brownie. We shared all.
We then went to Walmart where we bought eight large pumpkins for our family event this Saturday. These were just $3.97 each and this price was even quite a bit less even than Superstition Ranch. Lou hand-picked the pumpkins – according to size and the size of the “stems”.
Back at home, I had computer issues on several fronts. I could not find the master file for the “Missouri, Nauvoo, and Westward” church history book. This was frustrating. I finally had to open the PowerPoint original master and saved it to a PDF file. I had promised the file to Cousin Bev. I also lost the journal entry from last night. It took a while but ultimately I found the file rather late at night. I was grateful that I finally found the file. Computers can be such fun at times!
SO MUCH TO BE DONE …
Tuesday found Lou doing still more of same. The stacks just do not seem to come down.
I spent the full day working on the back yard. There was so much to do back there. My first task was to take cut the large branches that came down from the willow tree in a big recent storm. I then took down the trampoline. This has springs that have come detached from the pad. It took a while – and effort to get this taken apart. I stacked the metal alongside of the side gate. We have had parts to two previous trampolines – and have had the parts all over the back yard. I decided to get rid of all of these parts – since we recently purchased a new tramp for use by the grandchildren.
I picked up trash all over the place. I organized the yard. I then used the blower machine to blow off dust and debris from everything.
Marinda came with her three youngest children and Larissa came with Oliver. They helped Lou remove stuff and deal with it They also helped Lou put sheets and blankets on all of the beds – to get them ready for company. They made major progress.
Marinda then helped me spray down everything. She operated the hose and nozzle as I used a brush broom to brush off water and bird stuff. She was very helpful and together we got the place looking great.
Above: Backyard family gathering place for the Kevin and Lou Hunt family
With this, the yard was finished. It looked truly beautiful. Lou was really surprised with all of the work accomplished and how good everything looked. She thought that the tasks would take two or three days to complete.
Mike came over later – with all of his marvelous tools, screws, etc. He set up the new trampoline. He seemed to know exactly what needed to be done and he got right into it. It was obvious that he had done this before. The kids also had fun helping him with tasks that they could do. And Mike was great to let them assist. Before long, the trampoline was completely set up – including the tall safety net. The new unit was wonderful. We look forward to making the new trampoline available for the grandkids. It is fun to get a new tramp – after having so many second hand tramps that were worn out before we got them.
That same night, we also met with our Bishop Scoresby. We had good conversation with him about Nauvoo. He invited us to have a joint Temple interview – and this worked well for us since as Lou said, “We know all about each other anyway.” We opted for the new option of an electronic recommend – available on the church app on our phones. This is in lieu of the paper recommends of the past. Wow! It will be interesting to see how this works.
THE UNPACKING FUN CONTINUES
Wednesday (home a week) still remained very busy.
While in the office I opened a bunch of boxes to see what was in them. I put some of them into rooms – like the pantry, our bedroom, etc. I also separated out many boxes that I opted to leave in the room since it is not pressing to have the junk in the way at the moment. I was able to put our heirloom trunk and then several more boxes on top of this. By doing this I was able to pull many boxes out of the main entry and it was great to get this space cleared up.
Above: Books complied or written by Kevin Hunt
I was also able to pull out the shelf unit that houses my many books. I first had to pull the books out of the shelves – in stacks around the office. I then moved the shelf unit to its position in the living room. I spent some time organizing the books by kind – journals, my autobiography and the family heritage books. It was nice to get these sorted and back on the shelves in the family room.
Larissa (and Oliver) was kind enough to come again to help us on our place. This is a big effort since often she does not feel well. She has been very dedicated to us and our unpacking cause. Oliver came today dressed as a cowboy – with a western shirt and hat. He loves the outfit but doesn’t want to be called a cowboy. I sang him part of the song, “And if You get an outfit, you can be a cowboy too!”
She and Loui tackled the “grandkid room” today. They were on a quest to sort through books that we have collected over time. They came up with 4 boxes of books that we really do not need. They are kid books but are kind of boring. They got shelves put in the right places to maximize space to put the books in.
Above: Hunt Grandkids “Hang-out Room”
Larissa also sorted through my Dr. Seuss book collection. She sorted them to see which ones I had duplicate copies. She came to me for a decision on which to keep. I have over 50 books in my Seuss collection. Love it! I think that I have every book that he wrote.
Lou was able to empty many boxes that have been stored in the front bedroom – as we were gone. The room looks presentable now for guests – Kaylea and family who will arrive tomorrow. I got the days mixed up and thought that they were coming today. The extra day helped us get further on our cleaning and sorting.
About 3 PM I received a text from Scott Moore (the Stake Executive Secretary – and now the first counselor in the stake presidency). He asked if we could come at 6 PM for our mission release with the new President Horst. Interesting that we had been home a week and were just now getting released. I am sure that he had been very busy with the new stake reorganization.
I worked on the mission history/news this afternoon for a while. I created a page of photos about the missionaries in the Nauvoo Grape Festival and 5K run. I then felt that I was finished with the issue. I printed a black and white copy so that I could proof it adequately. I read through the whole document and found several errors that needed to be corrected. I then asked Lou to proofread the package – but of course she has a lot on her mind with all of the house stuff.
THE OFFICIAL MISSION RELEASE … A SAD DAY!
We had not been in too much of a rush for our mission release … and the new stake presidency had been plenty busy. The appointment was made for Wednesday evening – a full week after our return.
Above: Last missionary photo of Elder Kevin and Sister Lou Hunt – with nametags – before mission release October 22, 2025
Lou and I then dressed in our Sunday clothes to go meet with our new stake President Addison Horst. On the way to the meeting, I turned to Lou and said, “I have enjoyed working with you, Sister Hunt!” She said, “Why didn’t you tell me that earlier?” (“Women are from Venus and men are from Mars” as the old adage says!)
We went to the President’s office and had a very pleasant visit with him. He was intrigued as we talked about the mission. He thanked us sincerely for our service and expressed gratitude to Heavenly Father for the opportunity that we had to serve. Then came the moment that we had been dreading – the removal of our missionary nametags – which we have proudly worn for a year and a half. It has been a privilege and an honor to have had the name of Jesus Christ over our hearts.
Above: Missionary nametage of Sister Lou and Elder Kevin Hunt
While there we were also able to get our Temple recommends signed. President Horst met with me and Lou met with President Moore. We both opted for the “digital” recommends – so we can use our phones at the temple. After the interviews, the Presidents helped us figure out how to access the new recommends using Gospel “Tools”. We first did a sync that updated the system to reflect the new status change. We were then able to see my recommend with a scan code. All interesting technology.
I didn’t plan it such, but I suggested that we get a “selfie” photo before we left for the interview.
We then took another – without our nametags – as we got back to the parking lot. The one taken at home had a lot of light in it. The one at the chapel was pretty dark. An interesting contrast.
Above: Elder Kevin and Sister Lou Hunt just after missionary release October 22, 2025
We were expecting JD and Kaylea and their children to arrive the next day so we went to the front bedroom (the one that had all of the stuff earlier) and got the room finalized for their arrival.
Above: Front guest bedroom – from same view as before when it had all of the “stuff” piled high. Now ready for guests!
I was very tired as I tried to create my journal entry. I must have gone to sleep while pressing on the letter “A”. I got about ten pages of “A’s”. Funny, but sad, too.
The new recliner couch creates a wonderful place for late relaxation. They are probably too comfortable, however. They are way too conducive to sleep. Dangerous … especially when I have so much that I want to be doing.
I gave Lou the print-out of the August mission news but she had the same problem. She fell asleep mid page.
It had been a long day … but together we accomplished a great deal on the house.
PREPARING FOR HOMECOMING TALKS
Thursday morning the 23rd found both of us unable to sleep. I awoke this morning at 6:00 AM. I could not sleep. Then thoughts of my mind began flowing into my mind. I decided to get up to write the talk. I first prayed for specific guidance and revelation for the coming process. (And I soon learned that Lou had also awakened at an early hour with thoughts of her talk. I found her on the bed of the front bedroom writing away.)
I got some of my infamous 3×5” cards and jotted a few random thought as they came to me. The list was kind of a jumble of words to write about. I then began writing and felt inspiration of the Holy Ghost as I did so. I then typed out the entire talk. And then after the writing was complete, I looked back at my list. I had covered almost every item that I had listed previously. I was grateful for the inspiration of the Holy Ghost. So great to work in tandem with Him!
I proofed and re-read my talk about three times. I made minor changes as needed.
Lou wrote her talk on her phone. She said that she did not know how to print it. With a few clicks on her phone, I was able to receive her talk to my own phone. I read it and made minor grammatical corrections for her. I then printed it for her to review.
With all of the above, we could almost say that the unpacking and sorting was finished. That was not quite the case, however. Lou still had a stack of boxes along one wall in her front bedroom. And there are a multitude of boxes still stacked in “the office”. But all of this “stuff” can wait for another day. For now, the hallway is mostly clear (with just a stack of Nauvoo stuff remaining – as I await the new shelf to put it all on). There are only three or four boxes of stuff around the kitchen. So, the place is looking amazing.
It would be another three weeks or so before we got to the garage. We had it spotless before we left, but over time in our absence – and with the addition of more of our own “stuff” (suitcases and air mattresses), it had become horrible as it was filled with junk. It got so that we could hardly walk through a narrow passage to get to the garbage dumpsters.
Above: This is the clean garage after organizing. Nothing better than a clean garage!
It took us most of o full day working together to get the garage clean – but it was worth it. After we had cleaned it, I posed this photo to our family APP and said, “Major happiness is a clean garage!” We all got a laugh out of Keith’s comment (knowing of his garage) … He said, “A happiness I will never know!” Har, Har!
THE FAMILY GATHERS TO THE HOME FRONT FOR OUR OFFICIAL HOMECOMING
Joining our “Homecoming Parade” were Keith, Marinda, and Larissa – which included 17 of our 43 grandchildren. We had seen Jackie and family in the nearby town of Tempe as we were nearly home. We had just seen Lana in Nauvoo and so she decided that they could not manage another trip. We missed her. Jenae and Brianna flew down from Las Vegas. They stopped in to visit Jackie as she attended to her crossing guard duties. And BTW, Jackie is probably the world’s greatest crossing guard. She constantly wears new costumes (depending on holidays and themes around) for her and her little sloth shoulder friend.)
Above: Jenae and Brianna caught crossing guard Jackie on “Where’s Waldo” day.
Jenae’s man (the Lt. Colonel) drove down with their two sons late Saturday night.
Rusty had flown to Brazil – just a couple of days after he had been in Nauvoo. He went to help his in-laws fly from Brazil “to the states”. Then their departing plane out of Brazil had mechanical difficulties and they got stranded in a Brazilian hotel for four days. That would have been such fun! They finally made it back to Maricopa.
Then Kaylea and JD and Jett, Lucy, and Brodey all flew down from Salt Lake City.
Their oldest son flew down a couple of days later. They have a son on a mission in Washington. Kaylea and family spent several night with us at our home. We had cleared out the front bedroom enough for Kaylea and JD and a couple of the kids were in “the grandkid room”. Jenae and family spent sleeping hours (when they were not here with us) at the home of Larissa and Stu, too.
With all of this group here with us, it meant that we had all but 19 of the 64 of us here with us for the weekend festivities. Wow! This was wonderful and amazing.
I used my available resources to help the Stoddard family members feel involved and productive while here.
Jett worked on the trampoline. He used zip ties to strap the safety net to the tramp frame. We taught him some kitchen skills and he did great! He then spent the day reading one our teen church fiction books.
Lucy accepted the task of hanging up a bunch of the welcome home signs that the family members created. Brodey carried the 8 large pumpkins from the garage out to the backyard.
Lucy worked also to add the missionary photos and mission info on our missionary board. She added Sisters Katelyn and Abby. Later in the day I was able to get Bryson to answer his phone. He gave me information about Annie’s mission – the dates. She also sent me a better mission photo. The revised family missionary board looked great! (And above the board I hung Joseph Smith’s “Standard of Truth” which we always quoted in our tour of Joseph’s Red Brick Store in Nauvoo. And this large print showed up one day in the missionary D.I. – so I snagged it – and brought it home!)
Above: Kevin and Lou Hunt family missionary board
JD had several on-line work calls. But in between the calls, he hung a plethora of photos, changes out the microwave oven, worked on plumbing projects, and helped us get a new but used (and very nice) refrigerator for the garage.
Above: New Kevin and Lou Hunt family photo board … photos obtained or taken by Kaylea and hung by J.D.
Kaylea decided that our previous large family photo was very much outdated. We last took a family photo eight years ago. The photo was taken the day before the wedding of Larissa and Stu. She worked all day to create a new photo. She used as a foundation the photo taken of the family at the wedding of Bryson and Annie. She worked to add into the photo Michael, Blake, Stu, and the three missionaries – who were all missing at the wedding. She did a pretty good job of this. She is very skilled at this photo “editing” function.
Above: Full family of Kevin and Lou Hunt
JD, Brodey, Jett, and I were able to wheel the player piano back into the living room from its 18-month plus position hidden away in my “office/museum”. Jenae and Lou helped manage the furniture dolly – getting it into place under the piano as the rest of us lifted it. The piano is a beast – super heavy.
Above: Hunt family player piano shown with the new television screen bought by Kevin and Lou upon mission return (and hung by JD)
Many of the grands enjoyed playing the piano later in the day. I particularly enjoyed watching the young kids Samuel, Sadie, and Grant play “The Entertainer” and “Christmas melodies” – using the only two music rolls readily available for us.
The rest of the week – and through Sunday – proved to be a fun and big family reunion. It was glorious having everyone here together. We just “hung out” and had a grand time. Of course the food logistics for such a crowd was a bit of a challenge but everyone pitched in to help.
OCTOBER 25TH – SATURDAY … WHAT A GREAT FAMILY DAY!
Lou and I talked about things to do in our planned gathering with the family. We composed a “Nauvoo Quiz” with the plan for families to do these together. But we never had occasion to do the quiz.
I helped pack up two or three boxes of food stuffs to take with us. Lou cooked bread “bones” for our traditional “spooky dinner”. She made some “mummy hot dogs”. She cooked hamburger to make into Shepherd’s Pie. These are her traditional foods for the “Spooky Dinner” that she stages for me each year for my birthday. (And I checked back in journals and found that back in 2010 the Spooky Dinner was already “traditional” so we must have been doing the event for two or three or more years before that.)
Conveniently, my own Halloween birthday coincided with our mission homecoming reunion so we decided to combine the two family events – while everyone was here. This made for a very fun weekend – and a fun early birthday for me.
Above: Hunt family food from the annual “Spooky Dinner” created by Lou for Kevin’s Halloween birthday
A SPECIAL AND WONDERFUL FAMILY NAUVOO DEVOTIONAL
A couple of months ago Lou and I planned what we thought would be a fun event weekend for the weekend following our return from our mission. We then sent out a flier with our plan so that the out-of-towners could plan ahead to possibly come to be with us and the rest of the family to be gathered.
The kids have been gathering and this was fun just being together.
We all first gathered to the Homestead Chapel – where Rusty and family attend. He is in the Bishopric so he was able to reserve use of this building. Upon arrival, several people helped haul stuff into the kitchen. We got together in the Relief Society room. We had to wait for Marinda and Jackie and their families. Jackie and family were late arriving because they went to the wrong Maricopa chapel. Marinda and Mike were busy trying to get out of the door with their seven children. We waited for them to arrive.
I knew that my brother Ray was coming to join with us but was very surprised when our brother, Kyle, also came (with him). It was fun to see him. He came to Arizona from North Dakota to attend his divorce court. He spent the day with us and he seemed very happy to be with us. And all of our kids seem to love him and they have fun teasing him. i noted that they had aged a bit during our mission
Above: Ray and Kyle Hunt (brothers to Kevin) had aged a bit while we were on our missions. (AI assisted but what to look forward to!)
Above: Kevin Hunt with brothers – Ray (Left) and Kyle (Center)
Some of the family had not arrived yet but we had quite a crowd together. I counted 39 of the 64 family members present. Fabriza’s Brazilian folks and Ray and Kyle were with us. So Great!
Our first event of the day was a little devotional service. We weren’t sure how this would go but it was actually WONDERFUL. Wow! We began with a Hunt family monotone rendition of the song, “Come, Come Ye Saints” (As only we can do it with our 10-part monotone voices!) . Lucy led the song – with accompaniment on the phone app by JD. Dallen gave the opening prayer.
I opened the meeting and just shared some fun facts of our mission. Lou then talked and she shared some fun things also. We then opened it up for any of the family members who desired to participate. I first called upon Jackie (as the oldest of the children) and she had some good words. Most of the adults talked of their experiences on Nauvoo. We were pleased that almost everyone in the room had been to Nauvoo while we were there. I am grateful that we had the means to help them all come.
Above: Kevin and Lou Hunt remembering special Nauvoo moments with Jenae
Jenae talked of how she and Brianna had our own special Nauvoo time six months before our call to serve there. She told how Momma Lou and I were on the Parley street beach (on the Mississippi River) with her and Brianna. I guess we talked then about how great it would be if Lou and I could get to Nauvoo with each of the children. And it was a miracle that we got eight of our children to be there with us. That really is a “Nauvoo Miracle”. I think that each family had great experiences with us in Nauvoo. Such special moments together!
Almost all of the adults of the family stood and shared their feelings of what they saw and experienced. They all had special spiritual experiences. Even Keith shared positive thoughts to share. They all said how great it was to be there with Lou and I as their personal tour guides. They praised us in how we presented the history and tours for them.
Above: Grandsons at a Nauvoo devotional staged by Kevin and Lou Hunt for family
Lou and I felt good about our special gathering. The Spirit was strong and powerful with us.
Above: Kevin and Lou remembering special Nauvoo times with Jenae
Just as we were starting our meeting, Kaylea got a message from Bryson. He had taken Annie to the emergency room with some blood clotting. This was sad news with her pregnancy. We halted the meeting to have a group prayer for her. I called upon “Bishop” Michael to offer the prayer for all of us. We hope that things will work out in a positive way for her and them.
A “SPOOKY DINNER” IN CELEBRATION OF THE OLD MAN’S HALLOWEEN BIRTHDAY
After the meeting, Rusty led many of the men in setting up tables and chairs for a luncheon. Many people – including Lou – worked to finalize their food contributions. We all brought various “spooky items”. It was fun to see what everyone came up with. We had quite a variety. My favorite was a big pan of pulled pork that Rusty brought. He had a skull and bones crawling out of the pan. Very creative.
I was surprised to learn that Jenae had never been to one of our “Spooky dinners”. Larissa had not been since she was a teenager.
Fabriza’s parents arrived a few days ago with Rusty. Fabriza went today to get them. They joined us for our meal. Every one of our family members was excited to see them. It appears that they are kind of slowing down these days.
The large buffet meal spread was wonderful. The food was amazing. After we were done eating, everyone pitched in to help with the clean-up so the process did not take real long. We were soon done.
Above “Spooky Dinner” staged for Kevin Hunt 2025
Above: 23 Grandchildren of Kevin and Lou Hunt gathered at the Reunion and “Spooky Dinner” October 25, 2025
PUMPKIN CARVING AND COOKIE DECORATING
Jackie and Michael went back to Tempe. But all of the rest of the gang (including Kyle and Ray) showed up at our home with a plan to hang out for the afternoon. The family members just enjoyed a relaxed afternoon together.
JD installed the large new television that arrived today. We appreciated his efforts on our behalf. The unit seems much larger than the unit that we had before our mission. It is probably more than what we need but the grandkids should enjoy it when they come to be tended by us.
Late in the afternoon we staged a pumpkin carving event. Lou and I provided rather large pumpkins – enough for one for each family.
Each family was also given tools for carving. All of the families seemed to enjoy this activity together
Our next event was sugar cookie decorating. Each person was able to decorate a cookie as well as a cupcake.
I recruited Brodey as the commander of the quadricycle bike unit. On the given signal, most of the grandkids rushed out for rides. Brodey and Dallin rode in the front seat. And they filled up the rest of the seats with the cousins. There were more folks than the unit would hold at one time. The kids had fun riding and pushing the unit. Brodey took the kids around the “short block”.
I had stated in the promotional flier that we were doing “BYOP” food (meaning “Bring Your Own Pizza”). I had earlier had Jenae order Pizza Hut pizza for us, her, Brianna, Kyle and Ray. All of the others found their own pizza. JD ordered his pizza from Little Caesar’s and they waited all night for notice that their food was ready. The notice never came and they were frustrated as the rest of us ate.
Above: Hunt family at new “Moonlight Park” in Maricopa, Arizona
Marinda suggested that we go to a new park called “Moonlight Park” – in a new community that is ready to be built. This park proved to be a great place for our family gathering. We were there by ourselves (and the mosquitos) and this worked well. The kids were able to just run and chase as desired.
We all ate pizza and just had a grand time together. It was a good time.
Jenae and Brianna came home with us. Brianna and Lucy and Elsie put together a sleepover. Their plan was to hang out together in the grandkid room (where we have the “Murphy Bunk Beds” and the reading bench (that had a sleeping pad). Kaylea and JD and the other boys came a while after we got home. JD and the boys went on a food trek to McDonald’s and got dinner (since they had missed out on the pizza). Larissa came back over to just hang out with the family.
OUR OFFICIAL HOMECOMING TALK IN CHURCH
OCTOBER 26TH, a SUNDAY was also Keith’s birthday.
Lou and I both worked again this morning on our homecoming talks for church. Lou wanted several changes to her talk. I typed up these changes for her.
Jenae and family came over mid-morning. The men (Paul, Tanner and Trevor) had arrived about 3:00 in the morning from Las Vegas. Larissa and Stu came over too. She and Paul cooked breakfast for all of us (including Kaylea and family).
We left for church about 12:30 PM. Our sacrament meeting began at 1:00 PM in the Pacana Park Ward. We went (in Nauvoo pioneer costumes) with our family to present our mission homecoming talks.
We had nearly 50 people there with us – so we almost doubled the ward attendance for the day.
Above: Kevin and Lou Hunt family present at their mission homecoming talks in Sacrament meeting – October 26, 2025
Our gathered group included:
My siblings – Lesa with Charlie (from Mesa), Kyle (here from North Dakota), and Ray (also from Mesa). Darcy and Laura are on their mission in Vancouver, Canada.
Jackie and Michael with Blake, Caleb, and Darren (Abby is on a mission in Texas)
Jenae and Paul with Tanner, Trevor, and Brianna (Katelyn is on a mission in Colorado)
Kaylea and JD with Dallin, Jett, Lucy, and Brodey. (Bryson is married to Annie and they were unable to come, and Joseph is on a mission in Yakima, Washington)
Rusty and Fabriza with Sienna and Lucas
Keith and Kayla with their 8 children: Easton, Elsie, Stetson, Jackson, Weston, Emerson, Eliza, Emerson and Everly
Marinda and Mike with their 7 children: Sadie, Cali, Samuel, Grant, Rosallie, Elliot, and Maylee
Larissa and Stu with Andy and Oliver
It was good to be back to the ward after being gone for 18 plus months. I told Brother Barnum, the new Elder’s Quorum president, “Cousin” Jeff Barnum, that we will not be inactive but that we have commitments the next four weeks.
Lou and I wore our yellow Nauvoo costumes – to help set the stage for our report.
Our talks went well. (And I reported them in full text in a previous blog article.)
A GIANT FAMILY PHOTO SESSION
After the meetings, we gathered our family out to the east side of the building. We had Kaylea take a plethora of photos of the big group and then family groups with Lou and me. Kaylea is a great photographer and always does a great job. It was fun being there with the group.
Above: Re-enactment of an old photo. Up: Then, and Down: Now 2025
THE WEEKEND REUNION CONTINUES AT OUR HOUSE
We then all headed to our home. We planned to serve dinner but while it was a preparing, we all just hung out together and enjoyed the time. It was fun to watch the cousins playing and talking together.
I decided to make some of my famous punch for the meal. It was fun to see the reaction of the grandchildren as they realized that I was making the punch that they have missed for 18 months. They all got SUPER excited. I let Jett be the man on the giant whisk to stir the pot. All of the kids would have liked this task.
Above: Grandkids from several families playing together in the “Grandkid Room”
We served Hawaiian Haystacks. This is rice served with chicken gravy and then covered with various things like coconut, green peppers, onions, green onions, almond slices, pineapple, Chow Mein noodles, black olives, tomatoes, etc. This is a good dish to serve when feeding a large crowd. I recruited several of the grandchildren to help Lou cut and prepare the toppings. They all loved this.
As noted, this was Keith’s birthday. So, for his occasion, Kayla made several large “fruit pizzas” for our dining enjoyment. This was wonderful. I love this crust covered with various kinds of fruit – and a cream topping of some kind.
Above: Fruit pizza created for Keith on his birthday
Above: Many grandkids on the Kevin and Lou Quadricycle
Most of the crowd stayed here at our place for most of the evening. It was a great activity together. We all had fun. And we have enjoyed the whole weekend. Great times with our family.
After the crowd left, JD helped me to copy all of the mission files from the “mission drive”. I did this because our links to the drive will end in a month or so from the end of our mission.
Once again, we (Kaylea and family and Lou and me) remained up until about 1:00 AM talking.
THE CREATION OF TWO NAUVOO MEMORY WALLS
Nauvoo was so wonderful for Sister Hunt (now just “Lou”) and me – and for our families that we want to keep hanging on to that special Spirit of Nauvoo for as long as we can. It is now and will forever be a part of us … deep in our hearts and souls. And we want our children and their children to remember Nauvoo also … the special times and adventures – and the Spirit that we all enjoyed together in Nauvoo.
We created a full memory wall displaying the grand times, places, and people which we experienced in Nauvoo.
Above: Kevin and Lou created a special and sacred Nauvoo Memory Wall (called “A Shrine” by some – displaying photos of special Nauvoo moments, Nauvoo history, and mementos collected during the mission.
And on another wall in the same dining area, we created a grand photo collage of 20 large frames and about ten smaller frames. The larger frames each have five 5×7” photos in them. These photos depict our children and grandchildren as they experienced the various homes and shops and special times in Nauvoo with us.
Above: Kevin and Lou Hunt Nauvoo family memories wall featuring the Nauvoo Temple,
While we were in the mode of creating new memory walls after our return from Nauvoo, we also created a wall dedicated to Lou and I and our eternal marriage.
These photos are literally our Nauvoo scrapbook – just as all of Nauvoo is part of the Lord’s own scrapbook. The smaller frames capture some of the glorious flowers – the Lord’s creations which we saw blooming in Nauvoo. The centerpiece of the wall is a large print of the majestic Nauvoo Temple – reminding us of our sacred Temple covenants and the eternal nature of our own family through those covenants. We hope that this wall will draw the grandchildren to it each time that they come and that through the photos, they too will remember the Spirit, peace, beauty and testimony that they experienced in Nauvoo. We hope that the Nauvoo Spirit will live on in the minds and hearts of all of us.
HOMECOMING ACTIVITIES DONE AND REALITY SINKS IN
All of the fanfare was over. We survived the departure from our beloved Nauvoo. We survived the unexciting drive home along the lonely Santa Fe Trail. The parade ended. All of the kids went home. The unpacking of boxes was not finished but would continue seemingly without end for many days or weeks to come. The medical appointments (put off while we were healthy and happy in Nauvoo) were set up and follow-up appointments were also scheduled. We got into a mode of serving and helping our children and grandchildren. Sister Hunt returned to tutoring some of her grandchildren. We continued to go to all the special events involving the grandchildren. Christmas is upon us.
I finished writing the projected blogs about the mission. I finished the final monthly edition of the Mission history and the torch has been passed. I will still create the full annual 2025 history using monthly PDF files to be sent to me by the new guard for the final three months of the year.
My writing is not done, however. In the future I will publish a book of the final published blog articles. This will join volumes 1-3 that have already hit the press. I have an idea to publish a book showing all of the rooms of each of the Nauvoo homes and shops. We will see where that idea takes us. I want to create a book to memorialize the many Hunt family Nauvoo times, feelings and adventures over the past 50 years. The 2025 calendar year of journal entries will be published (at least for my current use). I might even publish a grand photo book of our beautiful Nauvoo. There is so much of God’s beauty there in the creation of Nauvoo. Somehow the Nauvoo vision will continue. So, stay tuned!
We have continued to keep in touch – at least at present – with the other dozen couples of our original MTC group. It is fun to her of their return to normal life adventures.
Life for us has begun to slow down – or to normalize somewhat.
Wish the rush of life and the return to “normalcy” (whatever that is), it almost seems as if we were never in Nauvoo. That has become a distant dream of the past. How could that be? And life just seems to move rapidly onward. But yet still in our minds, the distant Nauvoo memories will remain.
FAREWELL, NAUVOO, BUT NOT GOODBYE
Above: Kevin and Lou Hunt … the Nauvoo memories remain …!
FAREWELL, NAUVOO
And yes, our physical time in Nauvoo has come to a close and it is “Farewell Nauvoo” (at least for the moment). Nauvoo will always be a part of us. It is too special to forget.
And we say, as does “The Gallant Ship”:
“I go devoted to his cause,
And to his will resign’d;
His presence will supply the loss
Of all I leave behind.
His promise cheers the sinking heart,
And lights the darkest cell,
To exil’d pilgrims grace imparts—
[To beautiful Nauvoo] farewell.”
And in the prose of “Farewell Nauvoo”
“And so, Nauvoo, I say Farewell to you:
With numb and aching heart,
One last Adieu.
As through my tears I look to homes beyond.
… this home I leave will shelter mem’ries clear
Of all that I hold dear, in Old Nauvoo.
Farewell Nauvoo, Farewell Nauvoo.”
The Nauvoo trail has taken a fork in the road … looking forward to the next adventure!
This blog article is kind of a reflection of our mission and what we were able to do there as we served our Lord, Jesus Christ.
It was a glorious and wonderful mission. We served for 18 months in the Illinois Historic Sites Mission. This mission includes historic church sites in Nauvoo and Carthage, Illinois. Our Mission leaders were President Daniel S. Mehr II, and his wife Rebecca. We served as Senior Missionaries with principle duties as site missionaries.
The mission went by all too-fast. We cannot believe that it is over and that we are now home. And being home now gives us opportunity to reflect back on what we accomplished as we were in Nauvoo.
In our role, we had kind of specific tasks and functions that kept us very busy. Some Senior Couples are rather unique, however, in that sometimes they are not given specific tasks. These couples are left to kind of chart their own courses and how they will serve.
After our mission, we went to San Diego to visit with Sister Hunt’s brother, Elder Brad and Sister Kerry Belcher.
Above: Elder Brad Belcher, Kevin and Lou Hunt, Cousin Bev and Rob Jafek in San Diego
The Belchers were originally called to serve as support in an YSA ward. Just a week before their arrival a few Mandarin Chinese Saints were organized as a “group”. A group (including this one) is smaller than a ward and even a branch and is dependent upon a regular ward. The were asked to support this group in a variety of ways.
Elder and Sister Belcher immediately dug their heels into the work. They were creative in finding (or accepting) a wide variety of tasks. As they accepted these tasks, they often became a part of their daily or weekly routine. They drove people to the Chinese meetings and functions. They provided catering for many missionary conferences and activities. They became a support function to missionaries and members everywhere in the mission. They even used pickle ball as a way to connect with non-members and missionaries around them. (And Kerry beat everyone!) They created their own special niche and the missionaries and Saints around them loved them. And they seem to be loving their mission.
Elder and Sister Belcher are very busy. One of their roles is to serve as zone leaders for about 22 couples. In this role they work to welcome the new couples and to help them feel at home, socialize with them, and train them. They told us of one couple who had recently arrived in their zone. This couple didn’t feel as if they fit in with the mission and they mentioned to the Belchers that they really didn’t have much to do. This was kind of the opposite of Elder and Sister Belcher.
THE ROLE OF SENIOR MISSIONARIES
Above: Sister Hunt teaches brick making to young Sister Rivas
Above: Elder and Sister Hunt hosted Church History historians from Salt Lake City for a home-cooked meal (Curtis Ashton and Alex Stromberg)
As Senior Couples serve, it becomes their task and opportunity to utilize their own talents and to create missionary service opportunities based upon or around those talents. And often these talent opportunities don’t seem to fit the exact calling or function which their mission calls specified. Calls generally say the mission and the time for their service but give few other details.
THE LORD’S PARABLE OF THE TALENTS
I am reminded of our Lord’s Parable of the Talents as recorded in the New Testament in chapter 18 in the book of Matthew. In this chapter, it first appears that Jesus is talking about money management and opportunities. But it can also mean the talents (i.e.: spiritual gifts) given to people.
In the parable the Lord gave a man 5 talents, another 2, and another a single talent. After bestowing these talents, he went to a far country. In time, he returned and called for an accounting from each of the men relative to the talents (or stewardships) given to them. It is interesting that it was He who gave the talents – but then He also invited each to come to Him to “account” for their stewardships he had given to them.
AN ACCOUNTING IN THE STEWARDSHIP OF TALENTS
The servant who received five talents was industrious and expanded his talents to include five more talents. Likewise, the man given two talents also doubled his talents to four. And the third servant (whom the Lord called “Wicked”) did nothing with his talent. Instead of working to increase his talent, he actually went and buried it in the ground. So, he literally went “in the hole” or negative.
Upon hearing their reports, he bestowed double the amount or talent to each of the men who had magnified and multiplied their five and two talents. And to the man who had buried his talent, the talent was removed and was given to him who then already had 10 talents. And later on in Matthew, the Lord says that “unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance.”
MAGNIFYING AND USING TALENTS IN SERVICE TO OTHERS
It is interesting to see that when an individual uses his talents, shares them, and magnifies his talents, his number of talents increases. His capacity to receive and use more talents increases and he Is able to enjoy, experience and serve with even more talents. And the more that he serves with these talents (i.e.: gifts of the Spirit) he is able to serve even more. It is a beautiful principle!
That seemed to be the case with us on our mission. We recognized that the Lord had given us many talents (Gifts of the Spirit) and as we used them in service to others, our abilities and opportunities to serve increased – along with the capacity to do even more.
SERVING IN OUR MISSION STEWARDWHIP
In describing the above talent scenario, I used the word used by the Savior – that of “accounting”. That is an interesting word when used relative to church duties and service. I noted that when the Lord gives us talents and then opportunities to use them, he also expects us to give a later “accounting” to him. We are given opportunities to report back on the stewardships given to us. We are even commanded to “give an accounting” of those stewardships. So we are “stewards” of the sacred talents given personally to each of us.
In the Doctrine and Covenants, Section 72, verses 1-8, the lord states that the “elders are to render an account of their stewardships.” Verse 3 is especially impactful as it says, “… it is required of the Lord, at the hand of every steward, to render an account of his stewardship, both in time and in eternity.” Wow!
GRATITUDE FOR OUR MISSION STEWARDSHIPS
Now Sister Hunt and I would like to talk of the ways that we were able to use our talents in service to the Lord. In giving this “accounting” of our stewardships and use of our talents given us, it is our hope that readers of this blog will not think that we are just bragging about what we were able to do and accomplish. That is not the case. In giving this “accounting” we do so to acknowledge the entire Godhead and their blessings unto us. We express our gratitude for the assignments and opportunities to serve, but also recognize Their help in providing the resources, the connections, and Their guidance in accomplishing these tasks, functions, and responsibilities.
With the Holy Ghost with us as our companion, we were able to perform and accomplish in ways that were way beyond our own capabilities. (At least that is the way it was for me. The Holy Ghost inspired and guided me in my every effort and made me much better that I ever could have been on my own. Gifts of the Spirit are denoted in Corinthians, Moroni, and other places in the scriptures. But, in addition to those lists, I have come to believe that anything that we do for the Lord comes to us as spiritual gifts. I believe that all of these are also “gifts of the Spirit (meaning the Holy Ghost).” Sister Hunt supported me in all of my labors in my use of these talents and helped to facilitate them. And she herself was given additional talents which she used in service to others. We made a great team working in tandem with the Holy Ghost and Jesus Christ.
So, here is our accounting – along with our expressions of gratitude.
SERVICE AS SITE MISSIONARIES
Above: Elder Kevin and Sister Lou Hunt teaching on a tour of Joseph Smith’s Red Brick Store
As noted, we were called at “site missionaries”. This means that we were a part of a team of about 30 other site missionary couples. And together we were responsible to know and present tours in 28 restored homes and shops – that were lived in or operated by the early pioneer ancestors who lived and built in Nauvoo between the years 1839 to 1846. In just seven years they built a wonderful city and a strong foundation of faith for all of us who would come later.
Above: Elder Kevin Hunt with Brigham Young in his restored Nauvoo home
Many of the homes and shops were created by prominent people of the community – like Prophets and Apostles. But that doesn’t mean that the contributions of our own ancestors were not just as important. These specific homes have been restored because of their common heritage to all members of the Church. And they are representative of the total community.
The Church Historical Department has established a “site guide” which includes the key doctrines and stories that can be recited in each home. This Guide was the foundation for us as we prepared and presented tours in these many places. Sister Hunt and I noted on our first day of service – in the Jonathan Browning home.
Above: Elder Kevin and Sister Lou Hunt on April 17, 2024 – first historic tour given on their mission
The Turners had some really cool leather books in which they had captured the scripts for the many tours. We liked these and found some similar little leather books on-line – and they cost only about $13 each.
Above: Leather Nauvoo “Site Guide” book used by Elder and Sister Hunt
I copied each of the tours from the “Site Guide” – the full text – into a Word document. I then changed the format to fit within the small leather books. I printed these out. Sister Hunt and I each had our own personal set which we were able to make our own.
Sister Hunt then cut out each of the pages. She pasted these small pages into the books. We also purchased some colored tabs which helped us to more easily find the different tour guides as we were assigned to different house. There were so many tours that the material would not fit into a single volume. So we ended up buying second books for each of us.
At first we had to refer to these books frequently in preparation for the day ahead. Sister Hunt had me record each tour – as if I were reading them to my grandchildren. We often played these and listened to them together during our breakfasts. One might think the “remembering” task to be ominous and one could also muse about how it was possible to remember all of this. Remember, however, that we often repeated these tours many times through a day. So as we gave these ten or more times a day, we quickly remembered (or had brought to our remembrance through the Holy Ghost) what we needed to say. And over a short period of time, we got the scripts “down” so that we could more easily have them brought to our memory. And we didn’t need to refer to them so often.
I still took the applicable book to many of my tours. I used the books when I wanted specific quotes. I found it very impactful to read (with emphasis) from the book for these quotes. And the books themselves looked to “legit”. They looked like 1840’s scripture books. They really looked authentic and so quoting directly from them at times helped to bring the Spirit to our guests.
Sister Hunt’s parents, Elder Everett H. and Sister Verna Belcher served as senior missionaries in Nauvoo some 45 years ago (1979-1981). Their initial call was for 18 months but they had two 6-month extensions. And they served for the entire two and a half years in the very tiny Lucy Mack Smith home.
Above: Elder Everett and Sister Verna Belcher serving as site guides at the Lucy Mack Smith home (circa 1979-1981)
Things were different for sister Hunt and me in 2024 and 2025. We were assigned to a different home each day. So within each week, we served in six different homes.
Above: Elder Kevin Hunt teaching Terry/Pulsipher cousins at the Sarah Granger Kimball Home
Above: Elder and Sister Hunt giving a tour at the Lyon Drug and Variety Store in Nauvoo
(One day was our Preparation P-Day and this was a day off – to prepare for the coming week, do laundry, grocery shopping, and to just relax.) We actually really enjoyed this moving around. It seemed to keep us “fresh” in our tours and helped us not to be bored repeating the same things over and over again.
Sister Hunt and I are very different people in the talents that we have. We are kind of the opposite of traditional men and women roles. She is very much the “technical person” in our relationship. If a car has mechanical problems, she figures out a way to fix most things. As she says, “we are not very good at that mechanical stuff, but I am all we’ve got.” Gratefully she learned many of these mechanical skills from her father as she grew up. If she wanted a car to drive, she had to go out with him to help tinker and resurrect an old car from the family property. She learned early on to not trust me with any aspect of plumbing or electrical needs. Working on our plumbing did not go so well for me and for us.
My dad was a fabulous mechanic. He even served in the United States Air Force as a mechanic on the P-51 bomber during the Korean War.
Above: Russel Hunt with P-51 Bomber in US Air Force during Korean War (circa about 1951)
He scored the highest possible score on the mechanic tests of the time. And with his high scores, he was given special time off and other considerations. He could fix anything … but he hated doing the stuff. (Odd combination!) He worked and fixed cars and stuff as needed but didn’t really enjoy it. And he never taught me (or my siblings) any of those skills. (And I could never stand to get my hands dirty.)
Anyway, Sister Hunt gave all of the technical demonstrations that would have been mostly done by the men of the pioneer era. She gave the demonstration of show making in the Riser Boot Shop.
She gave the demonstration on how to make tin bowls in the Stoddard Tin Shop. She demonstrated how make a gun barrel in the Jonathan Browning gun shop.
Above: Sister Lou Hunt as School Marm at the Nauvoo Pendleton School
And she was the natural and very gifted teacher in the Pendleton School. (Of course she was a teacher for about 20 years).
I was and am different. I am very gifted in “administrative duties” – in planning, organizing, computer work and attention to detail. I have been given a gift of the Spirit to remember facts – history, people, places, dates, and other details. So, in our tours, I shared the history of the people and places and she gave the demonstrations. This system actually worked well for us. We each knew each other’s talents and abilities and together we made a really great team. We were able to touch people through our combined efforts.
Above: Elder Kevin Hunt doing computer work between tours at the Browning Gun Shop in Nauvoo
We were there on the job every day of our mission. We got up and got prepared for the day. We proudly wore our pioneer costumes. We took pride in wearing these and having them look nice. I researched the look of the day and got several vests, suspenders, and hats to look the pioneer part. I worked hard to look perfect for the time and Sister Hunt did also.
We were on-time and ready to serve each day at the appointed times. As we look back, we think that there was only one day in the 18-months that we were home-bound. That was a day that Sister Hunt was ill and unable to serve. We had to call in sick. Me …? That was actually a blessing because I needed such a day to catch up on my history work and the project of the day.
After each tour which Sister Hunt and I presented I pulled out my trusty 3×5” card and recorded the number of people in the tour and sometimes special people and experiences. Then at the end of the day I tallied the number of guests and input this into an Excel spreadsheet. At the end of the mission it was astounding to us that we personally had served 19,625 people on our own tours! Wow!
SISTER HUNT USED HER SEWING AND CRAFTING TALENTS
Screenshot
Sister Hunt used her talent of sewing and creating. We bought fabric for several dresses and aprons even before our mission – and more after we got there. Creating a Nauvoo pioneer woman dress was a challenge. Specific and very detailed patterns needed to be followed. And colors and “the look” had to be just perfect. She consulted the talented Sisters of the Sewing Room to get her dresses in the perfect mode.
All through the winter, Sister Hunt labored to create many new dresses. And she made a multitude of aprons in various colors – such that many of them were interchangeable with other dresses – to give her and guests different looks. We tried to look the authentic part of the real Nauvoo pioneers – our own ancestors.
We also enjoyed looking as if we were “together”. We worked hard to be color-coordinated whenever possible. She would first pick out her desired dress and color scheme of the day. (A woman thing …). Then after she had made her selection, then I created a composite color coordinated look (with pants, shirt, suspenders, vest, and hat) to go with her outfit. My only challenge was when she chose purple as the color of the day. I am not into purple (a guy thing) and so it was a challenge to come up with anything on those days. We received any comments and compliments by the young sister missionaries who saw and recognized our “together looks”.
For many senior couples, being together always is the dream- and often the reason for serving a senior mission. Couples envision working and serving together every day. That is not always the case, however. In Nauvoo, for instance, there are Teamsters. These are the guys who care for and drive the giant horses and oxen. They give tours along the way on the carriage ride (that goes up through the woods). And they drive – as a team on both the wagon and carriage rides. On the wagon rides one sister goes along and gives the narration. Often in their duties they are assigned in different directions. The Sister frequently is called to serve in a site as her husband is out “horsing around” (literally). Or one spouse could be in the office and the other in a site or in the sewing center. Some couples told us that they had not had any assignments together through their whole mission. Sad!
Sister Hunt and I were very blessed. There were only two or three times in our entire mission in which we were separated and had to serve individually. And in those cases, it was for just an hour or two. We are grateful that we could serve together every day.
SISTER HUNT AS A COOK AND MAKER OF DELECTABLE TREATS
Sister Hunt is known to her family and to many friends as a great cook. She often used these skills (one of her best talents) to share with others. She is particularly known for her cinnamon rolls.
Above: Sister Lou Hunt as master chef in Nauvoo
Lou made dinner rolls and cinnamon rolls frequently and shared them to all around her. She took these to many dinners staged by and for the missionaries. In preparation for the “Immersion trips” with the young sister missionaries, she went the extra mile made separate pans for each of the four or five cars that carried the young sisters on the trip. Often she made cinnamon rolls and several kinds of cookies for the same trip. She became a legend with the young sister missionaries and her cooking talents were greatly appreciated.
STAGING FUN EVENTS FOR THE DISTRICT, OUR MTC GROUP, AND EVEN THE MISSION
Using talents and skills given us years before – when we did catering or otherwise hosted and staged great events – many of them in our own log-cabin back yard, we were able to stage some great events in the mission. These events were for our district as well as for the mission.
Twice we staged unique Dutch oven dinners. These were different than the usual mission pot-luck dinner and were greatly enjoyed by the participants. I even purchased a 14” Dutch oven so that we could hold these events. Our first cooking event was for the 13 couples who were in our April 1, 2024 MTC group. Our group had reunion dinners every 3 months through the mission. When it came our turn to spearhead the event, we actually expanded the group to include about 10 other couples who came from the MTC alone – or just with another couple. We thought that everyone needed “a group”. The dinner was a grand success.
Later we staged the same Dutch oven dinner event for the eight couples of our own district.
One of my at-home traditions is pie making. I gather the grandkids together on the day of before Thanksgiving and we make a multitude of pies together. And then that same night we gather a crowd to eat the pie. We have found that by doing this, we can call better enjoy the pies – without already being “stuffed” with Thanksgiving food.
I requested permission to stage such an event for the mission. I was picturing kind of a low-key event that would be optional for anyone interested. It became a much bigger deal than I had envisioned. We were asked to create and host an event for the whole mission. We created a flier which was sent out to all of the 50 or so senior missionaries (this event was held in the winter – so no young sisters were with us). We created pie categories and worked to motivate folk – even men and others who had never made pies to participate.
Then at the event, we had judges present to taste and score all of the pies. We had separate competitions for men and women. We gave out some really great awards to the top three winners in each group. And the large collection of pies were fabulous.
We had an event wherein one of the couple sat at a table – decked out in a large garbage bag apron – while the other person stood behind them (without being able to see what was happening in front) and fed the front person pie. This was done with their hands only – and with no utensils – but we did give them gloves to facilitate the process. We had about fifteen couples who got coerced into doing this. (We committed them to pie eating before we shared with them how they were to eat it.)
The event came off wonderfully and was a grand success.
And incidentally, do any of you know the difference between sacrament meeting and a High Priest’s social? (Answer … they serve pie at the social!) That was the case with this collection of “old folks”. They were accustomed to really “dry” socials that consisted mainly of eating the pot-luck meal, hearing brief words from the mission leaders, and then putting away the tables and chairs. (But to be honest, we did have some fabulous events … like a campfire sing-a-long, a vintage dance, kite flying, sleigh riding, movies, and much more.) This pie-eating event was definitely out of everyone’s comfort zones. We got them up and moving and everyone had a great time. Many folks later told us that this was the best event that they had attended through their whole mission.
COORDINATORS AT THE JOSEPH SMITH PROPERTIES
The many historic homes and sites are administered by assigned “site coordinators”. We were very pleased that we were immediately assigned as coordinators for the Joseph Smith homes.
Above: Joseph Smith Homestead in Nauvoo (SE corner view)
Above: Nauvoo Mansion House of Joseph and Emma Smith
This meant that we were the coordinators for the “Homestead” of Joseph and Emma, their “Mansion House” and the little rock structure built in a later time by Lewis Bidamon (2nd husband to Emma after Joseph’s death). Someone else was assigned to Joseph’s Red Brick store. We were actually the first such coordinators for these Smith properties. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints purchased these properties from the Community of Christ on March 5th, 2024. We opened them for our own tours just a couple of weeks later and just a couple of weeks after opening “under new management” Sister Hunt and I were assigned as the new coordinators. We remained in that position for most of the rest of our mission.
Sister Hunt and I arrived in the mission just a couple of weeks later and were immediately assigned as coordinators for the places. This was a great blessing and honor. It was a very exciting assignment for us. Such a great honor!
We were “eyes and ears” to report any need for the structures. We did not do the actual repairs but we were the people who placed the call – or reported the need through the mission on-line reporting systems – to the Facilities Maintenance group. And then “FM” assigned missionaries (or a few full-time employees) who also served per their God-given talents – like for tree trimming, painting, plumbing, A/C and heating – or whatever the need. If others saw problems, it was us who reported the need.
Above: Elder Kevin Hunt cleaning the Joseph Smith Homestead in Nauvoo
During our summer or busy season operation mode, the sites are cleaned each day at the end of the shift by the missionaries who serve at each place for the day. In the winter, however, the coordinators have the cleaning tasks. This meant that we went once a week (or more often as needed) to clean our assigned Joseph and Emma homes.
Above: Sister Lou cleaning the Nauvoo Mansion House for Emma Smith
It was great to be able to serve Joseph and Emma in this way and we delighted in getting the places cleaned perfectly. I note that even we were not allowed to touch the historic items or collections in the homes. Those preservation tasks were reserved specifically for missionaries trained in those special and delicate tasks. But the cleaning- sweeping, vacuuming, etc. were our duties.
And in the winter, this also meant that we were the official snow shovelers for the walks all around each of these three places. The FM folks did snow plowing up to the sidewalks but we had the duty of the sidewalks.
Above: Elder Kevin Hunt “layered up” for snow sweeping at the Joseph Smith Homestead in Nauvoo
And each of these places had many linear feet of walks that needed to be shoveled. And that was quite a new thing for this Arizona desert boy. I was way out of my element but was blessed of the Lord to get the snow moved off of the walks.
When we were newly married, we lived in Ogden, Utah. I there had my first experience with snow.
Above: Ogden, Utah home (upstairs … and outside stairs at rear left) of Newlyweds Kevin and Lou Hunt
We lived on the second story of a home (on 12th Street) that had open outdoor stairs. And when it snowed, I had the unpleasant task of removing the snow. (I hadn’t learned the art of “sweeping” then, but the snow may have come more profusely.) On one such occasion, I slipped doing the task. I fell on my knee and was in a bad way for a couple of months.
This injury occurred right at the end of the year. Being a “tough guy” I refused medical treatment – thinking that I could “man it out” and did not go to the doctor immediately. But the intense pain persisted into the new year. And by that time, it was into a new deductible for my insurance plan and I procrastinated still more.
Finally the pain was so intense that I gave in and went to the doctor. He did an x-ray and said that I had actually broken my knee-cap. He said that he really should have “rebroken” it to care for it properly but he chose not to do so. But he cautioned me that I had to treat my knee as if I “had an egg in my shoe” and could do absolutely nothing on the leg for at least a month.
And with that background, I had nightmares of a reenactment of that situation- but in Illinois and Nauvoo. That was a real fear. Gratefully those fears were never realized. I had to be very careful, but I was definitely protected in my service for Joseph and Emma.
Above: The Nauvoo Temple in the snow
I cannot speak to the norm or “always” of Illinois weather but we were really blessed (in answer to my own prayers) not to have extreme snows. I counted only eight snow storms during our time in Nauvoo (though there were many days when we endured sub-zero temperatures and conditions). And each of these snow storms were “light” – meaning that the “white stuff” came softly and gently – and that I could use a broom to “sweep” the snow off of the walks and into the nearby grass – or at least out of the way. But it also meant that I had to go quite early to the sites so as to get the walks clear before the sites opened to the public for tours. If not done before they came, the first foot prints “froze” the spots and it was almost impossible later to remove the frozen spots – and thus creating a dangerous situation.
Above: Elder Kevin Hunt snow “sweeping” at Joseph Smith Homestead in Nauvoo
The whole snow scenario – or threat thereof – was a constant fear for me.
I was, however, like Lucius Scovil, who owned a bakery in Nauvoo. (And I often quoted him directly from my little leather book …) As Lucius and his family were out on the pioneer trail west – out on the mud flats of Iowa and just six weeks or so from Nauvoo, he received a mission call to go serve in England. He left his new second wife and their combined 8 children out there on the plains. He said, “It seemed like a painful duty for me to perform, to leave my family to go into the wilderness and I to turn and go the other way. But inasmuch as I had been appointed go, I was determined to fill my mission if it cost me all that I had on this earth … I thought it was best to round up my shoulders like a bold soldier of the corps … and assist in rolling forth the kingdom of God.”
SERVING AS DISTRICT LEADERS
We served for a full year as district leaders of the Hyrum #3 – Brigham District. In Nauvoo, both partners in a senior couple are called to serve together as co-district leaders. In this role, we served eight couples. Four of them were of the “old guard” in that we came out basically together in the spring of 2024. There were four other couple with us for a few months but then they left for home. Then in the spring of 2025 we received four new couples.
Above: Hyrum #3- Brigham District members – photo taken August 30, 2025
In our roles as DL’s, we had several responsibilities and opportunities. We were responsible for the “ministering” functions within the district. As soon as we were notified of incoming missionaries to our district, we began to help and train them. We called them numerous times and gave them help and insights about the roles they would do, what clothing they would need, and a multitude of questions and concerns common to newly called missionaries. We helped them to get onto the mission computer “drive”. We connected them with people who had answers to questions that we could not answer. We assigned a couple to each new couple as their official ministers and worked to get them together.
A few days before the new couples arrived, we received the key to their assigned home. We took photos inside their place so that they could kind of envision where they would be and what they should bring to make the place their “mission home”.
And then we kind of kept in touch with them as they made the reverse pioneer trek – going or coming east from Salt Lake City (the MTC) to Nauvoo. And as they neared Nauvoo, we gave the final update to other district members relative to the projected arrival time. Then as they crossed the Mississippi River (from either Montrose or Keokuk, Iowa) we encouraged all who could break away from their usual duties to come to help them move in.
Above: Hyrum #3 – Brigham District helping Elder and Sister Hayes (Center) move in upon arrival in Nauvoo
And with so many helpers, the task of unloading the truck or the Volkswagon much easier. We generally formed a “chain” from the vehicle up or into their new home. I gave the keys to their new place to one of them – with a caution to put them into their pocket – after one couple immediately locked themselves outside (putting the keys on the table – only to be forgotten once all of the goods were in the house). That gave some added excitement!
We also arranged to have three different couples provide meals to the newly arrived to get them covered for their first three days in the mission.
We scheduled ourselves to them on a tour of Nauvoo – showing them the restored places (in a drive-through), the local (non-historic) post office, the few eating places, the missionary post office, Deseret industries (“The D.I.”), and much more. This all helped them to get acclimated to their new city.
We also had the task of planning a monthly training meeting to be held generally on the fourth Tuesday of each month. This was a bit of a challenge for us because three of our men were in mission administrative functions – with a lot of meetings – so not always available to be with us.
Sister Hunt and I also planned a plethora of extra-curricular activities, dinners, and tours for our district.
Above: District Christmas Dinner held at the small Simeon A. Dunn Home where Elder and Sister Hunt resided … and a district tour at the Statue of Liberty Statue in Ft. Madison, Iowa.
Above: Hyrum 3 – Brigham District trip to Pella, Iowa tulip festival
Then at the end of our 1-year of service, we prepared a beautiful color magazine or book which created a wonderful history of the district, the couples of the district, and our many activities. We printed copies of each booklet and presented them as memories of the good times in our district. (No other couple prepared such …) The book brought back special memories and much joy to us and we think to them too.
MAINTAINING MY DAILY JOURNALING HABIT ON THE MISSION
I got motivated by an exceptional former Bishop about the need to maintain a personal journal. That was with Bishop Darwin Gunnell as I was in his Sunday school class for young single adults. That was on May 20, 1973 in the old Mesa, Arizona 10th Ward. Bishop Gunnell challenged us to “go home that day” to begin writing. I took him up on his challenge. I went home that day and found a small green lined “record book” and made my first entry.
Above: Journals of Kevin Hunt
That happened 52 years ago and I have made an entry for EVERY DAY since that time. This equates to about 142 volumes. This habit continued on the mission. I made a detailed journal record for every day of the mission. These are in beautiful bound volumes (now made annually – and each annual book is about 750 to 800 pages. These journal volumes will be available to my posterity (and maybe beyond) to have, enjoy, research, and to find themselves in the books – for generations to come.
USING MY TALENTS (GIFTS OF THE SPIRIT) TO TEACH AND TRAIN FELLOW MISSIONARIES IN FAMILY HISTORY AND JOURNALS
I got hooked on genealogy and family history when I was just age 12. And the subject has been one of my greatest priorities throughout my life. I have been dedicated to the cause of my own ancestors and helping others to discover theirs.
Through the many ensuing years, I have been able to assist countless individuals and families in their family history research. (And incidentally, upon returning home from the mission Sister Hunt and I were called as ward family history consultants!) I have had hundreds of experiences that have given me much knowledge of the how and why of family history.. And that knowledge has been accentuated and multiplied through the Gifts of the Spirit in wonderful ways.
With that knowledge and experience base, I wanted to help others. History and records is and has always been a big thing for me but I realized that this is not the case for most folks around me. I find that most people are quite petrified of the whole genealogy and family history scenario. They all hope that Aunt Edith has “done” all of the work for them.
And journalling … that is another trauma for most folks. They all know that they should do it … and most WANT to do it. They just don’t know how to go about it. And a typical scenario is for people to begin writing and to immediately think that they need to begin with the moment that they made their exit from the womb. This is their major mistake. I have learned to tell people to just write for today … and to forget (at least for now) about what happened last week or last month – or when they first got married.
With this desire to assist others … and in anticipation of a long cold winter ahead (and one with fewer activities planned), I decided to plan and organize family history classes for missionaries. I determined that I wanted five teaching sessions to effectively introduce the subjects. I put the dates on the calendar (and that was hard to find a date convenient to all – devoid of meetings and other distractions) and spread the word to our fellow missionaries. It was like the building of the famous stadium – and words of a pro, “If we build it, they will come.” And come they did … about 20 people per class.
Above: Elder Kevin Hunt teaching family history classes in Nauvoo
I created separate detailed and colorful PowerPoint presentations for each class and presented them on a big screen in an Admin room at FM. Then later, I published these presentations on my blog site. And still later, I combined all five with other past material on the subjects into a nice printed and bound volume. (And I am willing to send a PDF of the book and any or all of these presentations to anyone who writes me with a request!)
The five subjects included:
Preserving Family History through Heirloom Records
Writing the Journal of your Life
Writing your Life Story
Collecting Records for your Family History
Compiling and Publishing your Family History
The classes were well attended and participants seemed very pleased. Over the next several weeks, people came up to me and said that they were now working on their personal history or that they had begun to keep a regular journal. Every time that little Elder Wise saw me he said, “Elder Hunt … I am working on my personal history!” Sister Ward reported often of her progress. And there were many others! Hearing these stories was such exciting news for me.
CREATING A NEW BRICK DESIGN
Sister Hunt’s father, Elder Everett H. Belcher served a mission in Nauvoo form 1979 to 1981. During that time, he researched the occupation and art of brick making. He built a kiln and began molding small Nauvoo imprint bricks. These bricks have been handed out to Nauvoo visitors for some 45 years.
Above: Elder Everett H. Belcher demonstrating brick making in Nauvoo brickyard (circa 1980)
Above: The original Nauvoo Brick created by Elder Everett H. Belcher about 1980
Our mission leaders – President and Sister Mehr learned of this family legacy. They then invited Sister Hunt and me to design a new brick. With the help of our Kaylea and JD (Stoddard), we created nine different pssi8ble designs.
Ultimately the Mehrs and the Church History department approved our design with the Nauvoo Temple. A number of miracles began to fall into place as we created and implemented the new Temple Brick.
Sister Hunt and I found the company in Quincy, Illinois where the Nauvoo brick mold was created about ten years ago. This was patterned after the original mold that Elder Belcher created. Our Keith, being a product design engineer, created the detailed design for the new brick. Ultimately the Quincy company was able to create the molds for the new Nauvoo Temple bricks. And we soon started producing these bricks in the missionary manufacturing room of the brickyard. The new brick debuted in the Visitors’ Center just a couple of weeks before we left the mission. This was all a great miracle achievement. President Mehr says that this new brick will be around for a very long time.
Above: New Nauvoo Temple Brick – Created 2025 by Elder and Sister Kevin and Lou Dene Belcher Hunt – 2025
We gave many families and missionaries tours of the brick making room. We taught many people the art or skill of brick making so that the bricks could be created and shared with many Nauvoo guests.
Above: Sister Lou Hunt teaching brick making at the Family Living Center
When we served in the Family Living Center we shared with people a short presentation about brick making in old Nauvoo. And Sister Hunt was able to share with people the history of how her father created the original brick demonstration kiln as well as the original Nauvoo brick. People were amazed and dumb-founded as she shared this story. And they gloried – as did we – that here we were as a couple serving in the same mission as her parents who had started the brickmaking function – as well as the distribution of the bricks to Nauvoo guests.
Even before the new Temple Brick was officially launched in the Historic Nauvoo Visitors’ Center, Sister Hunt shared the new brick and the miracles of its creation with special guests. She kept a little stache of the new bricks and she discreetly handed them out to folks who came from other countries or who might never have the opportunity to return to Nauvoo. She kept a little log and later discovered that she had presented the new bricks to special friends from 20 different countries of the world. So the new Temple brick has a worldwide presence.
We also created and presented PowerPoint presentations about brick history to three different zone groups.
HELPING OTHERS DISCOVER THEIR NAUVOO ANCESTORS
There is an “App” program for phones called “My Nauvoo Ancestors”. To access this, one should open the “Family Tree” App. Then at the bottom right (or sometimes the top left) click on “more”. Then click on Family History Activities”. Then after signing in with the Familysearch account, one can scroll down to the second line – and then to the right to the “Find My Nauvoo Ancestor”.
This proved to be an unknown resource to our Nauvoo guests. Using the process, anyone can look up their ancestors who were a part of the pioneer Nauvoo community. The “App” will open up to 100 ancestors who lived in Nauvoo. Then men (ages 20-70) show up – with women and children – in the index. Men were the property owners. And with this information, one can click on “memories” and details of the selected person will pop-up. And for ancestors who lived in Nauvoo, one can scroll down and find a “nauvoo file”. And within this file, is a map that shows the property location of property owned by the Nauvoo ancestor. And then Nauvoo guests could go out to locate the property – so see what might be there. (Some have buildings of the pioneer period and some are just vacant lots).
Above: Elder Kevin Hunt assisting guests with Nauvoo pioneer Land Records at the Nauvoo Visitors’ Center
I noted that this is an unknown resource. I was particularly skilled in the use of this program and I invited many of my guests to get onto the program. Once they figured out how to get into the system, they got very excited – not knowing before that this search activity was possible. It was so fun to see the joy experienced by the guests who found their Nauvoo ancestors – and their property.
I helped virtually everyone whom I greeted in the Visitors’ Center how to do this. And after many tours in other homes and shops where I greeted people (and shared the tour presentation), I asked the folks if they had Nauvoo ancestors and then this discussion generally led to the search described above.
Over the course of time, I probably helped 200 or more people access this special program.
[And I note that this same resource is available to people “at home”. It is not just a file that can be accessed while in Nauvoo. (But obviously it is more of a challenge to go check out the property if not physically in Nauvoo.)] There is much valuable information in the Nauvoo file and it is definitely worth finding and reviewing.
And a similar App on FamilyTree enabled us and all interested folks around us to check out “Relatives Around Me”. This application was very fun to use. Most folks who use the App find that they are eighth or ninth cousins. Most of us are related in this way. But occasionally, we found third or fourth cousins in our guests. This was really fun for all parties. And often, I was able to expand upon t
Screenshot
he connections with additional information, photos, and other historical information about our shared ancestors. I frequently sent these “cousins” new information via texts and e-mail messages.
SHARING THE SIMEON A. DUNN HERITAGE WITH HIS POSTERITY
We have noted before that we lived in the pioneer home of Simeon A. Dunn.
Above: A typical guest family of Simeon Dunn descendants
We welcomed twenty or groups of Dunn descendants in the home as they randomly showed up and as we caught them outside taking photos. The outside of the home is original but there is not much that is original within – except a fireplace foundation and the stairs that went upward from the basement to the side yard. We generally did not have any advance notice for Dunn visitors but we brought them in and showed them the home – all three stories. And at the end of our “tours” we invited them to sign the Dunn home guest register. I always got a kick out of people trying to figure out “how great” they were (meaning like the 4th great grandson of Simeon).
These Dunn action helped Dunn family members feel connected to their Dunn ancestors. We were happy to help them in their search.
SERVING AS THE MISSION HISTORIAN
I received a specific calling to serve as the Mission Historian. In this role I worked hard to research and present various elements of the Nauvoo heritage and history. I utilized various ways to help missionaries of the mission learn of the current mission – as well as people, places and events of the Nauvoo pioneer era.
Sister Hunt assisted in this role as she took photos everywhere. Her photos (and more of mine) were incorporated into our various publications.
Having served as a “young missionary” in Nauvoo, I used the 1975 Nauvoo history and helped share those insights with my 2024-5 guests.
DOCUMENTING “CHURCH HISTORY IMMERSION TRIPS” FOR THE YOUNG SISTER MISSIONARIES
In our roles as Church Historians, we had a special and wonderful opportunity. The Mission Leaders – President and Sister Mehr – invited us to be a part of a series of what they called, “Church History Immersion Trips”. These trips were planned for the 36 of the young sister missionaries who would depart for home in the fall. The trips extended from May through August.
Each group got to experience three separate trips to Church history sites. We first took an overnight trip to see the Missouri church history sites.
Above: Young Sister Missionaries visiting the historic Liberty (Missouri) Jail
We visited Adam-Ondi-Ahman, the 3 and 8 Witnesses monuments, the Liberty Jail, Independence and more. The second trip was to historic sites along the pioneer exodus trail through Iowa and Nebraska. These sites included Richardson’s Point, Garden Grove, Mt. Pisgah, Kanesville, Omaha (formerly Winter Quarters) and more. The final trip was to church history sites within a fifty or so mile radius around Nauvoo.
We repeated these same trips for a second group of young sister missionary. So, with all of these trips, it was a very busy time.
Sister Hunt took photos everywhere along the way of our trips. I took copious notes of talks, presentations, and learning opportunities.
The material that we compiled was used extensively by the many young sister missionaries as they made devotional presentations to all of the missionaries of the mission.
And after the tours were history, I compiled much of the information and published the material in a book prepared specifically for the young sister missionaries. It is hoped that this book will be a valuable and beloved memory of the trips and the feelings that they had as they share church history experiences and testimony with their future families (and for their own reference).
I also prepared a shortened version (a “synopsis) of this Immersion Trip history for President Mehr to share with the Church History Department.
Also I created four other books with the material from the trips. One book covers the Missouri sites, another covers Nauvoo and the surrounding area, and a third book features the Iowa and Nebraska sites. And the last book is a combination of all of these geographic areas.
CREATING A MONTHLY MISSION HISTORY OR NEWSLETTER
As Mission Historians we were also charged with the creation of a monthly history of the mission – to include people and activities that occurred each month. Again Sister Hunt provided many wonderful photos that were included in the history. Missionaries throughout the mission loved this publication and they looked forward to it each month.
These monthly packages (most from 30-36 pages in length) were then combined into an annual history of the mission. We were not the historians in 2024 but after the end of the year, I combined the PDF files for the year and had this book published (on lulu.com) and made it available for all missionaries to purchase. The completed book was also made available (for free) in a PDF format for distribution to all missionaries. The book was also submitted to the Church History Department as the mission history for the year.
Sister Hunt and I were in the mission until October 2025 and we were able to create the monthly histories for January through September. It January of 2026 it is projected that we will have received the October to December pdf files from the new guard and we will again publish a full history for them 2025 year. And again, this annual book will again be made available to all missionaries – as well as to the Church History Department.
RESEARCHING THE HISTORY OF NAUVOO
Though not specifically charged to do so, I continually did extensive historical research for the pioneer Nauvoo era. I researched Joseph Smith and others of the prophets. I researched my own 32 direct-line Nauvoo ancestors – as well as the 20 Nauvoo ancestors of my wife. I researched brick making in old Nauvoo. I researched the many church history related markers and monuments located in and around Nauvoo. I documented the 1975 era (when I served in Nauvoo as a young missionary) with the homes and shops as they appeared in 2024 and 2025 as we served as missionaries in Nauvoo.
We gave presentations to individuals, districts and groups about the history of Nauvoo. It was fun taking our district on a tour to local Nauvoo sites. We set up a Zoom conference call and district members could Zoom in to hear my narration along the way.
We gave three different presentations about the history of brick making in pioneer and modern Nauvoo.
WRITING HISTORIC BLOGS OF THE MISSION
After researching various subjects, people and places in Old Nauvoo – as well as current events and people, I wrote frequent blog articles of my findings. Each blog required extensive research. Sister Hunt’s photographs continued to add much excitement to the blog articles. We made a great team as these blog articles came together. I published these blogs on our missionary blogsite which was InNauvooWithKevandLou.wordpress.com. I published these to the world – to my distribution list of 100 people – and through on-line resources to an unknown multitude.
These blogs and all of the historic Nauvoo books were written while maintaining our full duties as historic site missionaries. So there was much overtime work – at nights – and at the historic sites when we were not giving tours.
Over the course of the 18 months (and since returning home) I published some 75 blog articles. These are published as a permanent historical collection that will continue to be available to interested parties.
Many of these blog articles also later found their way into hard-bound publications.
WRITING AND COMPILING HISTORIC BOOKS
I have noted my historic research on many subjects of Nauvoo history. Following my research on these many subjects, I compiled the information into hard-bound books that I printed on the lulu.com self-publishing platform. As an author, I can use this site to upload and then publish my books for the general public. Then anyone can find my books on the site and can order them anytime (nor or in coming years) as they desire. The books are searchable under the search word “Nauvoo” or by my own Kevin V. Hunt name. (There are a few other books in both searches that are not mine but each search will pull up a plethora of my published books.)
My personal practice is to not inflate my book prices. Lulu decides the publishing cost and I can “up” the price to anything that I want as I set-up the book publishing parameters. I do not charge what should be the cost for similar books but generally charge only $2-5 dollars above the publishing cost. I do this so that the books will be more accessible and affordable by all who might want them. By adding this minimal upcharge, the sales data will appear on my sales reports and I can see what books are being purchased. And through this plan, many people can later reference and purchase my many books – and thus enjoy the historical data that I have discovered and preserved.
Before my mission I spent months creating a 2-volume set of books about my grandparents, Ray V. and Augusta Wilcox Hunt – as a gift to them for their 100th anniversary of their marriage. These books documents many family memories and history during that 100 year time. I finished the creation of these two books while in Nauvoo and published the for the family.
I created a book about the Argentina mission of our grandson, Elder Bryson. This book included his weekly letters and a plethora of his photographs. His mother added a great many more photos. We published this book for Bryson, his mother, and other family members.
Above: 20 historic Nauvoo books complied by Elder Kevin Hunt while a senior missionary in Nauvoo
It is unbelievable to me that over the course of the 18 month mission, I compiled and published 20 book volumes. This was way beyond my own capabilities. Such a feat was only possible through very close inspiration and direction (revelation) from the Holy Ghost. This brings us back to my introductory writing about talents and Gifts of the Spirit. I definitely felt the power and direction of His assistance. And as I used the talents that the Holy Ghost gave me, my talents and capabilities increased (almost exponentially). He just kept giving me more and more talents – which I was able to share with others. It was a glorious experience working in tandem with the Holy Ghost and in the process, I hope that “we” have created products and material that will be used and enjoyed by missionaries, family, friends, and Saints in general for many generations. I am humbly grateful for being the medium through or by which these books were compiled or created. I stand in great amazement and gratitude myself.
Anyway, it truly did happen. Each book is available upon request to me – as a free a PDF file – which I am happy to share with others. And if one likes what they have seen, the hardbound books are available (for purchase as described above) on the lulu.com website.
Here is a list of my published books. The list includes some links to many of the PDF files. The links likely are not “active”. However, the link addresses can be copied into one’s own URL and with an “enter” can become the active files. Other PDF links can be shared for or to interested parties upon request.
SAINTS IN MISSOURI, NAUVOO AND WESTWARD
This is the book for Senior Missionaries (and anyone in the world). It combines all of the geographic areas of Missouri, Nauvoo, Iowa, and Nebraska into one book.
I have created 60 historical blogs (an average of one about every ten days) while I have been here. I have compiled these into three books (and will create a fourth book after the mission concludes). The blog site address is innauvoowithkevandlou.wordpress.com
Available as pdf and Lulu: Volumes 1, 2, 3
“A Nauvoo Walk Down Memory Lane” – I was here in Nauvoo as a “young missionary” 50 years ago (1975). I then took photos of Nauvoo historic homes. Then as I returned to Nauvoo last year, I took photos of all of the same places. The book compares the two eras and shows the effects of restoration in Nauvoo
“Nauvoo Homes and Shops” – This book details all of the 30 or so homes and shops in which we take tours. Many of these (two a month) have appeared the monthly newsletter – but this book is the full package.
“My Nauvoo Ancestors (Hunt Version)” – This book details my own 32 direct-line ancestors and includes biographical information on each. Names: Pulsipher, Alger, Wilcox, Rawson, Cheney, Terry, Wiggins, Robinson, Clark, and many more.
“My Nauvoo Ancestors (Belcher Version)” – This book details the lives of the 20 direct-line ancestors for my wife’s Belcher lines – including Perkins, Carter, Haws, Gardner, and many others.
“Nauvoo Homes and Brick Making” – This book introduces the history of brick making in Nauvoo – and tells about many of the brick homes in Nauvoo. It also introduces my father-in-law, Elder E.H. Belcher, who built the original (modern) brickyard – which teamster wives always talk about on wagon tours as you/they round the corner by the Lucy Mack Smith home. Elder Belcher built the round kiln out in front at the brickyard. And he created the original souvenir Nauvoo brick that has been given to visitors for 45 years. The book details his research, and a history of his brick making in Nauvoo.
“Nauvoo Temple Brick Miracles” – This book talks of the many miracles that came together – and the history thereof – of the new Nauvoo Temple Bricks which Sister Hunt and our family designed and which are now being produced by missionaries in the Brickyard..
“My Nauvoo Hyrum #3 – Brigham District” – This book details the many great people and times in our district as we have served as district leaders over the past year.
“Nauvoo Family History Inspiration” – In January and February of this year, I created and presented five different family history related presentations for Nauvoo missionaries. This book combines all of the five presentations. The five subjects are kinds of personal history records, writing your personal journal, writing a personal history, compiling a family history, and a detailed look at how to publish books (books on family history – and any Lulu book in general).
“Nauvoo Monuments, Markers, and the Dash” – I made a study of Mormon historical markers and monuments within a 50-mile radius of Nauvoo and wrote history of each site. This is a travel guide for those markers and monuments.
“Nauvoo, City of Joseph” – This book is a tribute to the Prophet Joseph Smith. It contains much valuable information about him and his prophetic mission.
“The Nauvoo Martyrdom and Burials of Joseph Smith” – This book details the events surrounding the death of Joseph Smith and the many (5) different burial places of Joseph and Hyrum.
My book writing and publishing has helped to inspire others to take the big step to write and create for their children and families. One sister was inspired to write a special story of how she and her husband were brought together. She got the book published and looks forward to sharing it as a special gift with her family. She wrote to me, “My 1st book. Thanks for your inspiration and help.”
Several of our Nauvoo friends have thanked me for my help to them and they are moving forward in their writing and sharing quest. It is a joy to see such great things happening. Like a stone rolling forth …!
SETTING AN EXAMPLE FOR OUR CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN
I stated in my mission farewell and also in my homecoming talks that one of the major reasons for our mission was that we served for our nine children and 43 grandchildren. That is very true. We thought of them every day of our mission. We enjoyed sharing frequent (often daily) photos and narrative of our special, fun, and sacred “Nauvoo Miracle” experiences with our family members. We were able to share our testimonies with them in ways that may not have been possible otherwise. The family members seemed to be in a spirit to hear and believe what we shared with them. This was indeed a great blessing. We knew that each family member was praying for us wherever they might be. And we prayed for them. We – and many of our famjiy members – were blessed through our mission experiences.
Above: The full family of Kevin and Lou Hunt – 2025
WELCOMING OUR FAMILIES TO EXPERIENCE THE NAUVOO SPIRIT
We had the special blessing and opportunity to welcome many of our children and grandchildren to exoerience Nauvoo with us. Because of our use of the Lord’s talents – and gifts of the Spirit – through my writing, we were able to assist many with needed resources to make the trip. Eight of our children and their families came were able to spend several days each with us. Those were glorious and wonderful days “never to be forgotten” (as Oliver Cowdery once wrote. See his words at the end of the Joseph Smith History in The Pearl of Great Price.)
We managed to house the families with us in our small Dunn home. We put out air mattresses for the crowds and sometimes were “wall to wall” in beds. We fed them and basked in special moments with them in our home.
With our experience as tour or site guides, we were able to share special tours with each family. We were able to share beautiful Nauvoo with them. We took each family to most of the homes and shops. We taught them of our own ancestors who lived in Nauvoo and who sacrificed their lives, strength and might for us.
We were able to testify of prophets who lived and served in Nauvoo. We helped each family to know and feel the influence of Jesus Christ in Nauvoo. We know that most family members felt the influence of the Holy Ghost as the Spirit whispered of truths to them. They were able to experience and feel of the power of the Restored Gospel and its great blessings to all of us.
We believe that miracles occurred in each family member as they received and participated with us in our mission. As senior missionaries in Nauvoo, we feel that we gave our full and dedicated commitment – we gave our full heart, might, mind, and strength in support of our Lord Jesus Christ, and we believe that this attitude and our service permeated on to our family members. They felt of our commitment, our testimony, and our service. I believe that the strengthening of our own family was the greatest element of and perhaps the greatest blessing of our sacred mission stewardships.
We indeed had many marvelous opportunities for service in ouir mission. We were able to use the many talents that the Lord had given us of the Holy Ghost, and as we used those talents in service to others, he gave us more and more. It was a great experience to see the Lord at work in our lives and for others. Our mission was a special experience for us. We loved it and the people who came to us. We are grateful to the Lord for the many “Nauvoo Miracles”, connections, and the ways that the Lord arranged special moments, times, and experiences. We will forever be grateful for our special Nauvoo service opportunity.
Sister Hunt and I have loved our mission to Nauvoo. It has been a glorious and wonderful experience. We served for 18 months and it went by all too fast.
This blog article details events, people, and activities that we experienced during the final month of the mission – September 2025 as things were winding down and as we prepared to head home.
To read this lengthy blog article, one can hardly believe that “things were winding down.” Far from that … it seemed to be cranked up in the highest of gears. In looking at this blog, it looks like it is its own book – and an overload from the mission photo album. This is all good for our own mission record but kind of a lot for the rest of you. Use the dark headings and the photos to pick and choose what interests you. Or just take it in installments – a bit at a time. However you do it, we hope that you enjoy this trip down September in the super fast lane. Fasten your seatbelts!
I have already written about a visit that we had with President Merrill of the Mission Presidency as we served at the Temple City Tour and specifically at the William Weeks home. On that occasion, he released us as District Leaders and as the facility coordinators of the Joseph Smith homes – the Homestead and the Mansion House.
On Saturday, August 30, Sister Hunt and I staged a Dutch Oven dinner as a final event with our Hyrum #3 – Brigham District. We had served as District Leaders for almost a year.
A HISTORIC DAY FOR US AND OUR DISTRICT AND ZONE
The next day, Sunday, August 31st became kind of a historic day for us and all of our district and zone. Our Hyrum Zone (under direction of Elder and Sister Atkinson, zone leaders) had the privilege to serve this morning at the Nauvoo “Visitors’ Branch”. This is a gathering for all guests in Nauvoo on a given Sunday and a zone is assigned each Sunday to give the talks, prayers, lessons, and music. Today it was our zone’s turn.
The Nauvoo Performing Missionaries sang a fabulous new “African” hymn that is in the new hymnbook. This is entitled, “I’m Gonna Live So God Can Use Me”. Wow! Such a great song – and the NPM’s were marvelous in their rendition of it.
After the meeting, all members of the zone went to the Relief Society Room. One of the challenges in serving at the Visitors’ Branch is that we generally miss out on the announcements that are shared only in the main mission meeting. I was grateful that today they had a meeting just for all of us at the Visitors’ Branch.
Elder Mitch Atkinson conducted the meeting and got kind of emotional as he realized that this would be his last time to assist (as ZL) at the Visitors’ Branch – and also in his function as Zone Leader.
President Robert Merrill, of the Mission Presidency, was there. He read a list of new zone and district leaders to serve as a host of missionaries are now preparing to head for home. Our new Zone Leader is to be Elder Van DenBrink and Elder and Sister Burr will become the new district leaders of our Hyrum #3 District. They will do a great job. It was noted that Elder and Sister Ballard will be moved out of the district and they will become district leaders in the Nelson Zone. All of these folks will do a great job as they now assume the baton of leadership in the mission. And thus our own tenure as district leaders has now officially come to a close. We are grateful for the opportunity and blessing that has been ours to serve.
Above: Elders and Sisters Burr and Hunt – District Leaders of the Hyrum #3 – Brigham District
We will forever remember the wonderful people with whom we have served in the district, and the special times that we have enjoyed together.
CREATING A MEMORY BOOK OF OUR DISTRICT PEOPLE AND EVENTS
On August 29th (a Friday), I recorded in my journal.
“Another great day ahead! “A great day for up …” (Dr. Seuss)
I typed up a list of when our family members will be here. I sent this to the mission scheduler, Sister Wallentine. She does an excellent job. I am sure that the list was a bit of a surprise to her.
My project of the day was documenting events that we have held with our H #3 Brigham district over the past year. Lou and I together rooted out a bunch of photos. It was Lou who suggested that we pull together many of the photos of our activities of the past year – to give to our district members. I went back to about September 26th of last year. That was when we were called to be the district leaders. Hard to believe almost a year has passed. Wow! The time here has really sped by.
Lou helped find photographs of our events together. I also did the same. I also pulled journal entries that went with the photos. I inserted the photos into the master document of the District book. I made progress but there was a lot more material than I had planned. This all cdame together well and we were pleased. I created a future blog of the material. I knew that the project would continue into the next few days.
WORKING TO CREATE OTHER BOOK PROJECTS
That same afternoon,and evening I worked for the entire afternoon on several book projects. I worked to begin publishing the many church history books. I began with the young sister missionary version. I think my computer got hacked for a bit. I think that it quit but I am not sure.
I tried to publish the YSM book on lulu.com. I had problems with the back cover. I had to delete the saved images and restarted with the file. I got well into the project and realized that I had a typing error in one word of the Table of Contents. I got this corrected and uploaded it into lulu. Then I could not get the lulu system to take my payee information. I tried several times to reset this – but to no avail. I had hoped to publish several of the books today but it did not happen. I had too many challenges in the attempts. I was tired and worn out by the end of the evening.
THE TIME IS SPEEDING BY TOO FAST!
Monday, September 1st … September already! Wow! Unbelievable. This means that we go home next month. How can that be?
Today was the Labor Day holiday for most of the country but for us in Nauvoo, it was just another “normal” day.
I had a busy morning.
On this day, Sister Hunt and I served at the Cultural Hall. It had been a long time since we served there. We anticipated a day with little action so Lou went home to get her sewing machine and materials for making her new peach-colored dress. She had a hard time hiding the machine even from guests.
SEVEN BOOKS PUBLISHED IN JUST ONE DAY!
I got onto Lulu.com and was able to finish the publication of the Young sister Missionary version of the Church History book. It helped to let the system rest overnight. It worked today. We had the opportunity to serve at the Cultural Hall. We have not served at this place for many moons. Upon arrival, I opened my computer and went to work. Lou realized that she will have a mostly free day and went home to get her sewing stuff to work on her dress.
I worked on book publishing tasks all day when I had free moments and I worked the whole night to finish my book publishing tasks. I worked at these until about 11 PM. I was then very happy over my accomplishments of the day.
I also recorded “Wow! This has been a day like no other. I actually published SEVEN new books today! Amazing. I don’t know what my previous publishing record is, but this has got to top them all. And there are probably not too many authors who can publish seven books in a single day. Another Wow! The task was made easier because I had previously created PDF files for each books guts and also images for the front and back covers.
I published the following:
YSM Immersion Trip 2025
Synoptic Summary of the Immersion Trip
Saints in Missouri, Nauvoo and Westward (for senior missionaries and the general public
Saints in Missouri Before Nauvoo – Study and Travel Guide
Saints in Nauvoo With Prophets Joseph and Brigham
Saints Go Westward from Nauvoo
Brigham District Yearbook 2024 – 2025 (With Sister Hunt and I as district leaders)
Getting the books published was a major relief. Creating the books has been my complete focus for the past three months. The project was a lot of work but I got great satisfaction in it. I just hope that it will be used and appreciated by many people.
My next task will be to place an order for the twenty or so books that I have published here in Nauvoo. President Mehr wants me to order 2 copies of each of the books.
THE CULTURAL HALL THEN AND NOW
A few days later, we served in the Cultural Hall. As we served at the Hall I worked on my computer – and this too, was out in the open – though I did close up the computer most of the time when we had guests present. No place to hide away for such tasks at the Cultural Hall. it is an open performing place – with a lot of seats. We sat in the back to be available to incoming guests.
The Cultural Hall is not a real structured tour. We just show people the place – upstairs and downstairs. I talk of what the place looked like (as in 1975 when I was here as a “young missionary” – when the place was 2 stories – and before it was restored to its original three stories. They have a photo of the place – that looks just like it did when I was here before.
Above: Cultural Hall as it appeared in 1975 before restoration
Above: The Cultural Hall as it appears in 2025 after Restoration
I like to take people upstairs to show them the original dance floor that emerged after the flattish roof was removed during restoration.
Our role was to welcome and host people who came for the performances. This was an easy task.
The highlight of the day was the 2:30 PM presentation of the “Vignette” by the ten sisters of the Nauvoo Performing Missionaries. We had not seen this “Sisters in Zion” show before so it was fun to see it. It was really wonderful and Spirit-filled.
We did have a few people who came to see the place. We hosted an interesting trucking couple from Utah. He had the long beard and the wife said specifically to us that she hoped that “Nauvoo would give her husband a testimony”. We hosted a lady who is a daughter of Kent Tryon of Mesa. (Kent is a brother to Esther, Marge, and Bill – all of whom I have known well.) This family now lives in Iowa.
I had about three groups together in the top floor. One couple asked if they could dance (to dance where Joseph and Emma, Brigham and Mary Ann, and others all danced in the Nauvoo era). They video recorded their dancing. They had fun in their action and the rest of us enjoyed watching them having fun.
At the end of the day we hosted a young family. Their two kids enjoyed staging some extemporaneous acting on the stage. They had a fun time.
Cleaning the Cultural Hall was a bit more involved than many other sites. There was a lot of vacuuming that I did and there were a great many benches for Lou to wipe off.
ELDER LOWE IN THE HISTORIC BRICK SCENE
Elder Robert Lowe is enamored with the Brick Yard, the kiln, and the whole process. He had a fellow missionary at FM create a small wooden mold that would allow us to use the original (larger) Nauvoo Brick that Elder Belcher designed. He wrote today saying that he had the square mold created and that he had received permission from President Mehr to create a few of the bricks.
Lou and I met Elder and Sister Lowe over at the brick yard tonight. Lou combined a couple of pugs into one rectangle to fit into the mold. Elder Lowe pressed the pug with the hydraulic jack. He then pressed the original Elder Belcher imprint into the clay.
Above; New brick mold and the original Elder Belcher imprint of the Nauvoo Brick
Above: Elder and Sister Hunt with re-made Belcher brick mold
Abpve” The re-created brick from the original Belcher Brick mold
The system worked really well. Elder Lowe was very happy as he helped to recreate Elder Belcher’s brick and legacy. (Elder Belcher would have – or does – love Elder Lowe. They would have been great friends!
We called our son Rusty while we worked and he recounted how Elder Belcher made bricks at the “This is the Place Monument” in Salt Lake City. Rusty worked up there with his grandpa for a couple of summers. He had good memory of Elder Belcher’s processes of brick making.
Above: The Belcher brickyard which he created at the “This is the Place” Park in Salt Lake City – and below: E. H. Belcher the “Brickmaker”
ORDERING MY BOOKS FOR THE PRESIDENT AND CHURCH HISTORY DEPARTMENT
The next day I spent the pre-hour (the hour before leaving for the day) working on the Lulu.com site. President Mehr asked me two or three times to order two copies “of all of your books” (one for him and “the mission” and the other set for the Church History Department). Since I got the last of the books published yesterday, all of the books are now on the Lulu system. So, I went down through the list of the 20 books which I have created here and ordered the two copies as the Presideht requested..
Above: 20 Church Nauvoo History books compiled by Kevin V. Hunt while a senior missionary serving in Nauvoo 2024-2025
I sent President Mehr a note telling him that the book order has been placed. We were both anxious to get the books here before Sister Hunt and I depart the mission. So exciting!
Sister Hunt and I were assigned to serve in the Post Office and John Taylor complex today. Elder and Sister Graham were here with us – as well as a pair of young sister missionaries. We were the lead. After prayer we dispatched the sisters to the print shop and the Grahams to the Taylor Home. Lou and I remained in the post office.
Above: Elder Kevin Hunt serving at the Post Office complex
SEWING, COMPUTER WORK AND MORE BRICKS
Lou soon decided that she wanted to go get her sewing machine. She discovered a wonderful set-up in the upstairs space at the Post Office. This is set up for quilting so it has irons, tables, and more. She went home to get the machine. She had to make another trip or two later on for forgotten items.
I also had to make a trip home. I forgot my computer mouse – and this is essential for the work that I do. I noted a lot of action going on at the Brickyard so I went over to check it out. I found Elder and Sister Rieske up to their ears with our Nauvoo Performing Missionaries (who were there on their p-days). They were making their own custom bricks. They were having way too much fun! I took a few photos of the action there.
The three Post Office teams determined that we would switch homes at 11:30 AM and 2:00 Pm. We did so about 11:45. Lou was having so much fun on her project upstairs at the Post Office that I left her working up there – with a promise to call her if we get any guests. But by noon we had not had a single guest – and the whole Nauvoo Main Street was completely devoid of people and action.
I went alone to hang out at the Print Shop. I took my computer and had plenty to do – including catching up on my journal writing.
Above: Elder Kevin Hunt serving at the John Taylor Print Shop
I sent photos of last night’s brick making activity out to our family (our kids) and they thought this very cool. I also sent the photos to Lou’s siblings – in honor of their father, Elder Belcher, “The Nauvoo Brick Maker”.
Brad, the “owner” at the Richardson’s Point church historic site (now mostly a pig farm), wrote me a note. I sent him links to the new books which include his Iowa Mormon Trail. He is not a member of the Church but is the president of the Iowa Trails Association. He really liked the books.
I sent a link to the Study and Travel Guide books to several church historians.
Wow! It has been a very busy morning! I am so relieved to have the books published and all of the above tasks complete. It is all very exciting and wonderful. I am grateful that I have been able to create these books under the direction of the Holy Ghost and I acknowledge His guidance and revelation in the production of the books. I have felt that I have worked under the guidance of the Godhead and in Their behalf. I am grateful that I have been able to be an instrument in their hands. I hope that many people will benefit from the books.
That evening we attended a mission training program – as we do almost every Tuesday evening. Two people (seniors) tonight mentioned my book. One Elder said that he had already ordered the book. Sister Maughn said that the book was “so fabulous”. She said that she had read much of it and loved it. This was great to hear.
Lou worked on her dress all day – and then later at home. She completely finished her new peach-colored dress today. She was happy with her progress.
I felt good tonight. All of my current pressures are gone (at least for tonight). I have accomplished the big deadline tasks.
A Senior missionary, Elder Lamb, came up to us tonight at the Mailroom and asked us what he should know and do as the new coordinator for the Mansion House. He said that he was assigned to be there effective September 1st. We knew that a release would come – but no one told us that a new person was to be installed.
LONG-AWAITED GOOD NEWS FOR THE BRICKYARD
The big news of the day was the arrival of the Brick Kiln. It has been on order for many months and no one has seemed to know of its arrival status. It is now at the FM warehouse. The current kiln is electric powered but the new one will be gas powered. I am sure that Elder Lowe is chomping at the bit to get the new kiln installed. It will be interesting to see how long it takes him to get it up and running.
SISTER HUNT AND I MUST BE GETTING OLD … AND SOME GREAT NEWS
On the evening of September 3rd, we got some fun news. Kaylea organized a family video call. She got all of her siblings on the call – except Rusty – who was on a Young Men activity.
sCREENSHOT – UPPER RIGHT BRYSON AND ANNIE MAKE A BIG ANNOUNCEMENT – SEPT 3, 2025
The big news then came forth … Our Grandson Bryson and Annie are expecting their first child. (What have you guys been doing at your place, Bryson?) Annie said, “We were not expecting this …” I said, “Well, now you are expecting.” This is very exciting. A first grandchild for Kaylea and a first great-grandchild for Lou and me. The baby is due to come forth about May. All of the family members were excited on the call.
AN IMMERSION TRIP DEVOTIONAL AND GREAT REMARKS FROM THE PRESIDENT
September 4th found me at a special meeting at the North Visitors’ Center. Sister Hunt was ill (kind of a rare occurrence) and remained home. I decided to walk the mile and a half or so to the Center – to clear my head. I had had a lot going on recently.
President and Sister Mehr happened to sit by me during the program. Afterwards, he said that he “can’t wait to receive my books”. I said, “It will blow your mind! You haven’t even seen all of the books.” He said, “Yeah, I know … that’s why I am excited about them. I can’t wait to read them.” He also commented that now that I have published the books, “they will be ‘out there’ forever.” I hope that is the case – and that many people will ultimately benefit from them.
I also walked home and loved the walk. I enjoyed the moon, the glow of the Temple “illuminated” on the hill, and the cooler weather (about 65 degrees). It was supposed to be down to about 50 degrees that night. The fall weather is coming. We hoped that we would get to see the fall changing of the leaves one more time before we leave. (We certainly don’t have any changing leaves in our native Arizona desert home.)
Back at home, I ordered a few book items to be sent here to Nauvoo. I ordered several of them to be sent to Rusty’s home in Maricopa (thinking that would be better than to my vacant home). I placed another order for 3 Brick Miracles books. I should have ordered them earlier with the other order … but anyway.
HOPING TO MAINTAIN THE BELCHER BRICK LEGACY
Lou also suggested that we put up the brick poster (created back in June) in the brickyard (where historians likely will not remove it). I converted the image to a jpeg file and sent this to Walgreens for enlargement. I printed an 11×14” photo for the brick yard, and one for our Nauvoo wall that we want to create at home.
A TREK TO A NEARBY BALLOON FESTIVAL
On Saturday, September 6th, our friends, Elder Craig and Sister Torri Sanders invited us to go with them to the town of Macomb – located about 30 miles from Carthage (where they are now assigned and live). We went to see a “Balloon Rally”. We hurried home after our at the Browning home and changed out of our costume clothes. We then drove to the town of Carthage.
We went to the home of the Sanders. They and a bunch of other missionaries all live in small residences in what is called “The Bushnell House”. This is a grand old house that is about 100 years old. We really loved the place. When we got back to their place, they showed us the magnificent staircase (that is shared by different companionships).
Above: Sister Torri and Elder Craig Sanders at the Carthage Jail visitors’ center
We rode with Elder and Sister Sanders to the town of Macomb. We parked and then walked a block or two to the balloon site. I should have brought a jacket but I have not felt cold yet. I was a bit chilled.
We soon got in line to get food at a food truck. We got pulled pork sandwiches. Elder Sanders paid for our meal – though we balked about this. The sandwich proved to be really excellent.
Above: Macomb, Illinois Balloon Festival September 6, 2025
The city – or whoever sponsors the event – had some balloon flying activities planned but the wind level was too high. They had to settle for a “glow event” wherein many balloons turn their “fire” on at the same time. Elder Sanders really got into taking photos of the balloons. There were about 15 very colorful balloons. It was fun to see the balloons as they hovered above the ground.
We remained at the balloon rally until about 9:00 PM. We then went back to Carthage where Sanders live. We then had another half hour trip back to Nauvoo. We very much enjoyed our evening out to the Rally. And we enjoyed being with the Sanders. They are very fun folks. Lou and Torri are great friends.
STARTING TO PLAN OUR WESTWARD EXODUS HOME
September 7th was a Sunday. Today was the first birthday for a little granddaughter who was born while we were serving on our mission. We met her at the wedding a few months ago but look forward to getting to know her much better after we get home.
I spent the time getting “trunky”. I have felt for a while that as we go home, we need or can follow the Mormon Battalion Trail (that the original Battalion members followed). I was pleased to discover that their route really is our most direct route to go to our own Maricopa home. I printed out some maps. Then I found the brochure that I have had for a while – and it was at the top of my list of “stuff” on the floor. This had a great map – along with the key cities to stop and go through.
Route of the Mormon Battalion March 1846
A SURPRISE VOTE OF THANKS
Sister Harford – in our district – wrote to us. She said, “Thank you so much for all your kindness and efforts! You and Sis. Hunt welcomed us before we got here and made this place a comfortable place to be before we left Utah. We are grateful for that … and arranging meals and help moving in, the district treats and the “ditch oven dinner” (I spelled Dutch wrong on a communication.) As our ministers you did a great job of letting us know we could count on you without being overwhelming. We really appreciated it … we didn’t need much but it was comforting to know you would help if we needed you. THANK YOU!!! Thank you for the books you’ve written and Sis. Hunt’s pictures. We don’t know how you got it all done so quickly. With love, Elder and Sister Harford.”
Above: Sister Peggy and Elder Doug Harford
Lou wore her new peach-colored dress. I resurrected my old shirt that I wore when in the “City of Joseph Pageant” 28 or 29 years ago. I don’t know why I have not worn it more. I guess when we first arrived, the blousy look was not the current missionary look. Now, however, it fits right in with what the sewing ladies are now creating. I wore the cravat that Lou made of the same fabric as her dress – and a brown vest. I have to admit that we made a classy looking couple.
We had a sister missionary take our photo with the backdrop of the Mississippi River and the colorful swamp flowers behind. It was a glorious photo. I think it has become one of my best favorites. Jenae loved seeing her mother in the new dress – with fabric that Jenae bought and gave to her (for her birthday). She said that this was the last fabric that she was able to buy at the Joanne’s craft store as it closed its doors forever.
SHARING TIME WITH OTHER CHURCH HISTORY SITE MISSIONARIES
On Monday, September 8th, A President Jim Johnson, the site leader for the Independence, Missouri Historic Sites Mission came to visit us in the Family Living Center where we were serving. He had come to Nauvoo with his seven or eight young sister missionaries. They were doing an “Immersion Trip” like we did recently with our young sisters. I visited with him about my new book about Missouri Church History and sites. He acted pleased to have me send him a copy of the book. I had wanted to anyway, but it was nice to talk to him to let him tell me that he wanted to have a book. The visiting Sisters enjoyed visiting with our sisters – especially about upcoming “outbound missions” – which their group and ours are going to do soon.
GETTING OUR DUNN HOME IN PRISTINE ORDER FOR COMING VISITORS
At home, I got into a cleaning mode in the basement. We needed it clean for so that we can host guests in just a couple of weeks. I vacuumed wherever I could get the vacuum wand. I sucked up bugs, dirt, dust, and more. I vacuumed the large rug – top and bottom. I organized the shelves and got everything off of the floor. (There is still more organizing to do.) I sent out a photo of the basement on the WhatsApp app to tell the family that the place is ready for them.
Meanwhile, Lou vacuumed or otherwise cleaned the window blinds in the kitchen. The blinds are difficult to clean. She cleaned the oven and pulled the oven out from the wall and cleaned behind and under it. So, we got a few big items checked off the list of tasks to be completed before our departure.
A WELCOME DAY WORKING AND CREATING BRICK AT THE BRICK YARD
On September 8th, we had the privilege of serving and working at the modern brick yard. We are always happy to serve there in the Belcher family legacy. We had two young sisters with us – Sisters Trappett and Templin.
Elder Rieske came over to get us on the right path. He is a good man and I like him a lot. He showed me a photo of the new gas kiln (from the manufacturer). This will be an upright version. The current model is a chest variety.
Above: New gas brick kiln
We had a lot of tasks to perform. I got the sisters going. They first “hacked” the bricks created yesterday. They then trimmed (sanded) the bricks made two or three days ago. There were a lot of bricks to trim. Lou checked the pub machine to make sure that the pug was the right consistency (water, sand, and clay). She then started to create bricks as the sisters created some custom bricks for the one sister. They then began to imprint with Lou. They ultimately created 8 ½ trays of new bricks.
I worked to extrude out the pug. The machine worked well so the task was soon done. I created two tubs full of the pugs. I had to stop because all of the tubs were then filled. I then took the pug tubes off and washed them. This cleaning was a chore but I got the task done.
We finished all of the tasks right at noon. We had a good day and accomplished a great deal.
Back at home, Lou got into a cleaning mode. Lou spent her afternoon upstairs. She pulled out all of the chests up there. She cleaned the trim boards on the walls. She is really going for her list – anxious to get the tasks all completed before our kids start arriving. I am grateful for her dedication to the task.
Later in the evening we decided to reward ourselves for all of our work and good happenings of late. I decided that we deserved a treat. I went to the Dollar General store (our only store and the Nauvoo “supermarket”) and bought a small carton of caramel flavored ice cream. I then went to the Red Brick Café and bought a couple of bottles of their new “Nauvoo Root Beer”. We have heard about this root beer. Sister Squires, the café owner, said that this is the famous root beer that the Community of Christ used to sell in Joseph’s Red Brick Store.
The root beer was fabulous. And we enjoyed the root beer floats.
MAKING A PLUG FOR JOURNALS AND RECORDS
On September 10th, I wanted to talk to Elder Hayes to see if he might have two or three summary PowerPoint slides from his May presentation (for inclusion in the mission history for that month). I thought about talking to him – about 7:20 AM. I thought that he might be available since the feeding of the horses is at 7:45 Am. I did not know or remember that the 20 or so Teamsters meet each morning for a devotional (before they horse around). I placed the call to Elder Hayes and Elder Atkinson answered the phone (since Hayes was about to give the morning message).
I found myself on a voice call with all of the Teamsters. I had the full audience. Elder Atkinson had just been talking to the group about my writing of books. We had talked of that last night. With the group listening, he asked me how many books I have written while in Nauvoo. I said, “20!” They were all amazed. He then asked me about my journal writing. I told them all that I have a daily entry for every day since May 20, 1973. Elder Atkinson later told me that virtually none of the men are good at journal keeping.
Above: Journals written by Kevin Hunt
After the conversation, I typed out a list of all of my Nauvoo books – with descriptions for each one. I sent this on to Elder Atkinson and said, “Thanks for being my marketing manager.” He has been a big fan of my books.
CONNECTIONS AND FAMILY CIRCLES
We served the day at the Wilford Woodruff home. On one fun tour we had two couples come to visit. The second group was fun. This was two couples. The one lady was sister to the guy from the other couple. And their name was Lee. I asked them if their ancestor was Francis Lee who was here in Nauvoo. They were surprised that I had heard of him. And then I surprised them more. I pulled out my phone and showed them the home that their ancestor lived in.
Above: Frances Lee Home 1975 (likely changed dramatically over time)
The place is no longer there but I saw it when I was here as a young missionary. I described the house for them. They all took a photo of my photograph. I forgot to tell them that my ancestor, Horace Strong Rawson, would have been their next door neighbor.
The one couple is from Mt. Pleasant, Utah and they knew my Aunt Winona (my mother’s sister). Winona was in their ward up to her death.
I showed the folks how to do “My Nauvoo Relative” and they got so excited about this. One lady had a trauma trying to get connected with her phone. She got frustrated. We learned that the Lee siblings descend from Zerah Pulsipher – as do I. Zerah Pulsipher is the missionary who tracted out and baptized Wilford Woodruff.
Above: Zerah Pulsipher photo and priesthood ordination certificate (ordained by the Prophet Joseph Smith
We did “Relatives Around Me”. We learned that Wayne Lee and I are 3rd cousins – once removed – which is quite a close relationship.
The other brother-in-law showed a relationship to Ebenezer Fairchild Wiggins – my 4th great grandfather. This was a side line relative – so not too close – though it provided a fun conversation.
A DINNER TRAINING MEETING
That evening we joined with our fellow missionaries for a dinner training meeting. As we got home, we changed out of our costume clothes. We then headed out to the Performance Building for a pot-luck dinner. Lou made some wonderful brownies (full of chocolate chips) that morning. The dinner was great. Elder and Sister Jestice were in charge of the event and they had set up the hall with multiples of two tables together – in a square to seat 8 people. This was a pleasant change from the long banquet tables. The food was excellent. We sat with Elders and Sisters Atkinson, Parker and McArthur. We had a good visit with them.
After the meal we talked of ways to enhance our tours – through personal connections, bringing Christ into the tour conversation, etc. Some good ideas were presented.
Fourteen of our young sister missionaries were all leaving for home the following. It was sad to sing “God Be With You” to them. We have enjoyed our association with these special ladies.
CELEBRATING 47 YEARS OF MARRIAGE
Our anniversary would not be for three days, but on September 11th, we then went to the town of Quincy – located about 50 miles south of Nauvoo. We wanted to go to eat – in recognition of our Sunday anniversary. We decided to go on a night when we could leave earlier than our would-be 5:00 PM (after our site service).
We first went to Keokuk and Montrose to check out some historic sites. We then drove about 60 miles south to the community of Quincy (of those towns). We went to the Texas Roadhouse restaurant – which we enjoy.
Above: Kevin and Lou Hunt – Anniversary 47 celebration at Quincy, Illinois Texas Roadhouse
We were seated immediately. I got my usual food. – pulled pork, baked potato and chili beans (which I always on top of the potatoes). I really ought to “branch out” to try some different foods. Anyway, it was a pleasant evening in celebration of our 47 years of marriage. Forty seven … Wow! Hard to believe!
And earlier in the week we celebrated birthday #46 with our oldest daughter. And a couple of months ago our “baby girl” turned 30. How is that possible? We can’t be that old!
Above: Elder Gene R. Cook – long an LDS Church General Authority
I learned that day of the death on September 9th of Elder Gene R. Cook, a general authority Seventy for three decades. Gene grew up in our Mesa 10th Ward and I knew him well. I even babysat his kids on occasion (when Lesa, their usual sitter, was full with her calendar). He was/is a great man. He died at age 84. I sent the obituary on to my siblings.
A SCHEDULE MIX-UP
Another great day (September 12th) in Nauvoo! I noted that “I am grateful for each special day here. It has been such a great blessing and opportunity to have served here (again). The Lord was gracious unto us in bringing us here. We have had amazing experiences.
On this day, Lou and I thought that we were to serve at the South Visitors’ Center. (Admittedly, we failed to check “the drive” this morning as we are told to do. We went to the Visitors’ Center and could not find the key to the place. We called Elder Batteen – thinking that he might have the code. Then at that moment, an FM worker showed up with a key.
We got into the place and kind of got settled for the day. Then Sister King, a Teamster wife, came in. She said that she had just learned that she was to be there (alone) for the day. We checked the schedule and learned that our schedule had been changed to serve today at the Homestead and Mansion House of Joseph and Emma. We had to go home to change out of Sunday dress clothes and into our period costumes. Peach was the color of the day.
We rushed over to the Smith properties. We were a bit late. We served with a pair of young sister missionaries as well as a triple-up – so there were plenty of ladies around there.
A FINAL REUNION GATHERING OF OUR ORIGINAL MTC GROUP
On the evening of September 13, wee went to the Family Living Center and joined the other 12 couples from our original MTC group. This was our last “reunion gathering” before we all go home. We will leave on October 13 and the Rieskes extended for six more months. All of the rest of the couples head home on October 1st. It is hard to believe that our 18 months have come to a close already.
We had a pot-luck dinner and there was some wonderful food. I love pot-luck meals. There is always a variety of great food.
We sat with and visited with Elders and Sisters Graham, Parker and Ward. I enjoyed visiting with Elder Ward (whom I knew on my young mission in Alabama).
After the dinner, I persuaded the group to gather for a group photo. There was a pair of young sisters there and they took the photo for us. I wondered if we have ever had a photo with all members of the group but we accomplished it on this night.
Above: April 1, 2024 Mission Training Center (MTC) Group final reunion held September 13, 2025
Also after the meal, we gathered into a big circle. Elder Dennis Jones entertained us with his off-the-cuff humor. He is always hilarious. He mentioned strange things that many group members have done through our mission.
FUN TO RECEIVE FIVE BIG BOXES AT THE MAILROOM
We served at the Sarah Granger Kimball home on Saturday, September 13. We love serving at this special place.
We did not have any guests all morning. Then at 1 PM, we were ready to eat lunch. I said, “Let’s eat … and someone will come.” And that is exactly what happened. We opened our bags and a car pulled up. It was two couples – whom we had yesterday. Then a third couple came as we were just finishing with the first couples.
On our way home, we went by the mailroom. I was pleased to see five big boxes there for me. WOW! I knew that it was the book order for President Mehr. This was exciting to receive these.
The five boxes of books came coated with some weird dust. I got a wet wash rag to dust off the boxes. I then hauled all of the boxes inside. I opened each box and spread out the various books in matched pairs. These stacks took up the whole living room. The stack of my own books “did my own heart good.” So great! One pair of books was wrong. It had my book guts inside but it had some strange (not mine) cover. I sent a message to Lulu.com to tell them about the error.
I sent a message to the Mehrs saying that “Christmas is Here – the books arrived today.”
To celebrate the day, we decided to eat in Nauvoo. We first went to Annie’s Custard. We bought her large cinnamon roll – which she calls the “wagon wheel” roll. This had just come out of the oven – so this was great to get a fresh one.
We went home and changed out of our costumes.
We then returned to the Red Front Café. We both ordered the “Durfee Turkey” sandwich (mine without cheese). These sandwiches are excellent. We each ate only half of our sandwiches (and saved the rest for later. (This is actually our mode most of the time when we eat out.) Back at home, we ate some of the cinnamon roll. Yum!
OUT ACTUAL SUNDAY ANNIVERSARY ON SEPTEMBER 14TH
Our wedding anniversary. Lou and I have been married for 47 years. Wow! Hard to believe. It does not feel like yesterday but it does not feel like 47 years! Jenae commented yesterday about us and them having an anniversary. I said, “Yes, in three years it will be your silver anniversary, our gold, (and I added diamond for my folks – since all three couples got married on the same day 25 years apart.).” Jenae suggested that we ought to plan a cruise for our 50th but I wrote back and said that “Mom and I have talked about cruises and we find no joy in them.” Keith wrote, “That is too bad … since they are sure fun.”
We attended our “missionary ward”. It was a great day for the meetings. We went early so that we could assist the Elders of our zone to prepare the sacrament. I enjoyed this service with the other men. It is amazing to see the huge group of missionaries gathered together. We will miss this wonderful “ward” when we leave Nauvoo for home.
Above: Senior couples in sacrament meeting … could that many people be asleep?
President Mehr took a few minutes in Priesthood meeting. He said that next year there will be 80 young sister missionaries here. We had 72 this year. Wow! Quite a bunch!
THANKS, ELDER LOWE! (Elder Belcher would be proud!)
After the meetings, we talked to Elder and Sister Lowe. I love that guy. He is really into the whole brick scene, Elder Belcher, the brick molds, and our modern connection. He has found some of the really old brick molds (with the larger size) in the “auto shop” of the FM building (of all places). He wants to get us over there to see them.
Above: Antiquated brick molds with the Elder Belcher original Nauvoo Brick molds
The large bricks that we made with him are now in the kiln and have been fired. They are done but will have to remain in the kiln for another 24 or more hours to fully cool before the kiln door is opened. Elder Lowe is fascinated at how the Lord facilitates all of these “miracles” – bringing people and experiences of the past to us today. He is pretty amazing and wonderful – and I give my gratitude to Him for His blessings.
Larissa’s boys – Andy and Oliver had parts today on their Maricopa EL Dorado ward Primary sacrament meeting program. She had someone in their ward send us a link to the meeting so we were able to view the program. We saw Rusty on the stand as 1st Counselor to the Bishop. We saw Fabriza (a Primary teacher) as she introduced a group of speakers. Oliver had a 1-line “talk”. He said in his little squeaky voice, “I can choose the right.” (Cute kid!) Andy said, “I can pray like Joseph Smith did.” It was fun to see both boys.
THE CLEANING AND SORTING TASKS CONTINUE
Lou finished cleaning and organizing the last of her kitchen cupboards. She vacuum packed all of the bags that she has been creating. She created a couple of costume covers. So, she was a very busy girl.
After dinner another night, Lou and I worked on her list of to do things that need to be done before our departure. That night’s project was the living room. We pulled all of the furniture away from the walls and scrubbed the walls and vacuumed all around under the furniture. We worked together. I pulled out the furniture and dusted the high walls as she did the vacuuming. It was good to get the task completed.
OUR TASKS ARE COMING TO AN END
While we were at the Family Living Center one day, Sister Hallows came in. She said that she and her husband have been asked to serve as the new coordinators for the Joseph Smith Homestead. And Elder and Sister Lamb have been called to be over the Mansion House. So, I guess we are officially done with both. Sister Hunt and I coordinated and served at three Smith homes – the Homestead, the Mansion House, and the after-period Bidamon structure. We cleaned all of these places once a week in the winter and also shoved the snow as it arrives. It is sad that we have completed these tasks. We have really enjoyed serving Joseph and Emma and taking care of their homes. We have felt it a sacred opportunity.
BEING IN THE RIGHT PLACE AT THE RIGHT TIME
September 16th, a Tuesday, found us serving at the Pendleton School.
Lou transported her whole sewing center with her – sewing machine, and more. There is a very small but secluded room there that she can use. While at the place, she created an “Emma collar” to be worn on the bodice of dresses. This looks very nice.
, Corey Wheeler and wife, come in. They said that they are from Kentucky. I said, “Oh, my Hunt family lived in Kentucky for 50 years. They were in Muhlenberg County.” The lady said, “I am from, Muhlenberg County.” I then said, “They lived in Greenville or the Hunt Settlement.” She said, “I am from Greenville.” We were both very surprised.
Above: Original church built by ancestor John Hunt in Hebron (Greenville) Kentucky circa 1802
Above: Hunt Settlement (circa 1802) in Hebron (Greenville, Kentucky)
We talked about the Hunts in Kentucky and how they joined the church there. They had no idea that there were any church members there back in the 1840’s. I told them how the Hunts joined the church there and then moved on to Utah. The guy said that his father used to be the Bishop in the Greenville … so they were fascinated with this ancient history. They said that they would have to go study more about the Hunts and their conversion there. These folks were about the only church members there when they were growing up.
I showed the guy how to find his Nauvoo ancestors. We found two of them (different lines) and they lived a half block away from each other – both on Young Street.
We had a great conversation with them. We were all kind of in awe of everything. The lady said, “I think we were supposed to come here to visit with you.” We said, “We call these ‘Nauvoo Miracles’ and we experience them all of the time here. It is so interesting and unbelievable how the Lord puts all of these puzzle pieces together for us and the guests who come to us. We are grateful for these special moments.
I shared Pendleton history and Miss Lou was the teacher. Lou loves teaching in this 1840’s classroom.
SHHH … DON’T ASK, DON’T TELL
September 18th, a Thursday was a fun day. We had a lot going on.
Elder Lowe found a bunch of old brick molds on top of an office – like up by the ceiling – in the auto shop at the FM building. He invited us to go over to see them.
Upon arrival, he and I first gave a blessing to Lou. She had something going on with her eye and she put some medicine on it – and then had an allergic reaction to it. The eye is now puffed up and is bothering her a lot. We did give the blessing to her. I appreciated Elder Lowe’s assistance in the administration of the Priesthood.
Elder Lowe then got a ladder and put it up against the office cubical. He climbed up there and brought the brick molds down. We got a photo of them. I talked him into letting me take one of them (one of four) to ask President Mehr if we can have it. There are four of these. The bricks are Elder Belcher’s large molds – that are the 6” bricks (like the wooden mold that Elder Lowe helped to create for us). (But there are still two other sets – to hide away for years or for the historians to later discover.)
We did leave with a full set of the old molds (with Elder Belcher’s design). He said, “I don’t know anything about this. I don’t know what you are talking about …”
A few days later, we had occasion to be with the Mehrs – for our surrey ride with them. I took the set of molds over to show to President Mehr. I hadn’t said anything to him yet. He looked at them and instantly said, “How great that you get to take those home with you.” He also confessed, “I don’t know anything about this. I don’t know that you have them.” (We’ll keep the secret if you all will too!)
After the trip to the FM warehouse, I took Lou home. She wanted every free moment to work on her cleaning and de-junking project.
THE NEW TEMPLE VISITORS’ CENTER
I went over to visit Elder and Sister Hampton. They are historians and kind of the project manager on the construction of the new Visitors’ Center that is being built to focus on the Temple. It was fascinating to talk to them about the progress of the Center. He gave me some great photos to use in my June history/news. I want the edition in June to feature visitors centers of Nauvoo over the years.
Above: Construction underway for the new Nauvoo Temple Visitors’ Center (scheduled for comletion Spirng 2026)
The Hamptons also enjoyed hearing some of my stories of mission life back in 1975. I shared many things of historical things of the time.
WE DISCOVER A WONDERFUL SHOW STAGED BY THE NAUVOO PERFORMING MISSIONARIES
It was our “preparation (P-day). Lou and I then went to the “South” Visitors’ Center. The Nauvoo Performing missionaries staged a program there. They used the big staircase for their grand entry. Then they kind of mingled among the gathered group. They sang many of the early songs of Zion. The music – and the place acoustics were amazing. We were in awe of the wonderful program.
Sister Tammy Hunt (and Brad) were also at the music program. She came over to our place after the event. We talked about the May Teamster article for the mission history. I showed Sister Hunt my “oops” book that I received from Lulu. Normally Lulu does well on my book printing but they made a mistake on a recent order. The cover of the 2 books had the title of “Toby Needed Help”. And inside the book was my guts – the “Christmas Is …” Cantata. She thought this was pretty cool and she wanted it. I gave it to her.
A TYPICAL P-DAY AND TRIP TO KEOKUK
Lou and I went to Keokuk for our weekly p-day shopping. We first went to Walgreens and picked up an order I had placed – for another brick poster. We then went to the ALDI store for produce and a few other items.
We then went to Walmart. We decided to get the oil changed in our vehicle – in preparation for our upcoming long trip back to Maricopa. We bought the “standard oil change” package because it included a check of a multitude of fluids, etc. on the vehicle. We were able to go do our shopping as the work was done on the vehicle. This worked well. They finished about the time that we finished our shopping. I left Lou with the groceries at the front door as I went around to get the vehicle.
We got gas at the station there at Walmart and it cost us only about $12.50 for a week of driving. I like that kind of a gas bill. We got our usual “Whopper Junior” sandwich (2/$5). We like this burger. We then made our usual stop at Dairy Queen. Lou had a “double dipped cone” and I got the “pecan mudslide” sundae. Yum!
We received a package with seven booklets that we created about our H3-Brigham District activities over the past year. We had determined that we would go around to the homes of all of the district members tonight. We went individually to all of the seven homes and did not find even one couple at home. We were awe-struck that this could happen. I guess most of the folks were off on Friday night dates.
I spent the evening working on the June Mission History/Newsletter. This had become a fun edition as I compiled a focus on the history of visitors’ centers here in Nauvoo. I also created a “photo album” page with multiple photos. I created a timeline of visitor center events here in Nauvoo over the past 100 years. I liked the end result of this timeline.
CREATING THE TRADITIONAL MISSIONARY “FAREWELL CARD”
On the morning of September 20th (before our service work elsewhere) I worked all morning before service – to create a “farewell card” to distribute to other missionaries of the mission. It is kind of traditional here for missionaries to create a card to give out. Most of them have about 20 very small photos – in various outfits and poses – that are very hard to read. Lou and I both wanted something very simple – with a single , nice photo. I pulled the photo of us at Joseph’s Red Brick Store three or so weeks ago. We are wearing the peach colored outfits (me in my “City of Joseph” shirt from long ago. I created a document on Publisher. I first imported this photo and enlarged it to fill the entire 5×7” frame. I then typed in our address, phone and contact information. At the bottom, I inserted a photo of Lou and I at the Belcher brickyard (the kiln that Gramps Belcher built), and then photos of the original Belcher Brick as well as the new Temple brick. On the other side at the bottom, I wrote, “60+ Historical Blogs and 2O books” (with the blogsite and lulu.com under this. I then put a gold frame around the whole picture. We both liked this a lot.
I then ordered 110 prints from Walgreens. I ordered 4×6” size prints at 15 Cents each (after a 50% off deal that expired today). I had kind of wanted 5×7” prints but even at half price, they would have been $1.50 each (so $150 or more). We both liked the price of the smaller print more. Within an hour, I got a note from Walgreens saying that the photos were printed.
FUN CONNECTIONS AT THE SCOVIL BAKERY
We went to serve at the Scovil Bakery. Lou had to go home because she did not bring her “activity bag”.
We hosted a couple from Harrisville, Utah (west of Ogden). We told them that we used their “cabin” facility years ago for a Belcher family Thanksgiving dinner. This is the same event where Sister Hunt forgot to put the turkey in the oven … but that is another story!
Our guests found this interesting. I mentioned that I have Rawson relatives from that area. His phone was not cooperating – relative to internet but he finally got it to work. We learned that we are 4th cousins through Horace Strong Rawson.
Our guest was Corey Dinsdale. I told him where the Rawson home was – now in the horse pasture – and across the street from the home in which I lived when I was a young missionary.
As we were struggling to get on “Relatives Around Me” a ginger-haired guy from northern Utah helped us. He said that he used to work for FamilySearch. His name was Stuart Edgington. He is a descendant of David Yearsley – who owned the 3-story home here in Nauvoo. I also took this guy for a tour at the Masonic/Cultural Hall. He wanted that tour but the young sisters could not take him (without others on the tour). He was in total awe of the place. He loved what I told him relative to when I was here as a young missionary. I enjoyed time with this guy. We were 7th cousins on an unknown family line.
We hosted the Harper family of 5. It was fun to learn that they are from Cullman, Alabama – one of my mission areas. He knows the Drake family – whom I knew 50 years ago. He took one of my “business cards” to deliver to Cumen Drake.
We had a good day. We had, I think, 89 people on our tours through the day.
I noted the appointments of Elder and Sister Lamb to be coordinators for the Mansion House and Elder and Sister Hallows have been appointed to shepherd Joseph and Emma’s Homestead. They split the homes between two couples. We covered them all and made the recommendation for the split. Somehow in the transfer, however, “they” forgot about the Bidamon structure. This meant that we still had responsibility for them.
We got a message that the restrooms in the Bidamon structure were out of toilet paper. (This is a constant challenge. We write up a work order and the FM folks take just a couple of rolls over there. It is more of a challenge for them since the places do not have the large roll dispensers as in every other home or shop site. Hence, just the regular home rolls is what is required.) We knew that there would be no action for such a problem until Monday so I dispatched Lou to go to our home to get several rolls to take to the Bidamon place.
It began to rain as we got done at the Scovil Bakery. It rained through much of the evening. We drove in the rain to Keokuk. I slowed down to be safer.
We first went to Walgreens and picked up the farewell cards. These turned out very nice. We both loved them (and especially the price). We then went to Walmart. Lou wanted some pills of some kind – and body wash. And we bought toilet paper for the Bidamon place. Sometimes it is just easier to buy such things on our own than to go through the cumbersome system of the various mission departments. It was raining very heavily as we were in the store and we heard the extreme pounding of the rain on the metal roof. And getting to the vehicle was quite tricky. I ran to the car – and got my shoes wet. I met Lou at the door.
Back in Nauvoo, we went to the mailroom. We put a hundred or so of our new farewell cards into the mail boxes of a bunch of senior missionaries.
At home I got onto the phone and reported the count for all of our tours of the day. This is a frustrating task. It is just kind of tedious to enter the date, time of the tour, number of people on each tour and also the site name. But I got the job done.
ANOTHER SURPRISE CONNECTION
Sunday, September 20th found Sister Hunt and I serving at the John Taylor Complex (the three tours).
A visit with a husband, wife and two daughters – was fun. I also showed them how to do “My Nauvoo Relative”. The husband was Parley Holliday, Jr. His father, age 91, is Parley Holliday, Sr. I knew Parley, his dad, when I was here as a young missionary. He was the Nauvoo Restoration “project manager”. I liked Parley. This guy thought it really cool that I knew his father. This guy would have been about age 7 in 1975. We talked of Gene McMein and his final month or two as we reconnected with him.
The guy was surprised when I was able to pull up on my phone the photo of the 1975 Missionary tie cutting ceremony – of me and Parley. I had fun talking to this guy. And I was pleased to hear that Parley Sr. is still alive and is over age 90!
Above: 1975 Nauvoo Missionary tie-cutting cereony. Kevin Hunt center (Parley Holliday not shown but he was there)
While at the Post Office, we got onto a Zoom call in which we heard Elder Joseph Stoddard and his companion, Elder Hardinger (of Arizona) talk in church. They both gave great talks. Joseph talked of his love for The Book of Mormon. He has been a good missionary and we are proud of him and his missionary work.
OUR FINAL RIDE WITH OUR MISSION LEADERS
We served September 22nd at the Joseph Smith Homestad. We left soon after 10:30 AM. We went up to the horse barns. We were scheduled to ride this morning with President and Sister Mehr on the surrey ride. This is a tradition here for departing missionaries. All of the missionaries look forward to this ride with great anticipation.
Above: Elder Kevin and Sister Lou Hunt on Surrey ride with Pres. and Sis. Mehr (at right), Elder Kevin and Sister Selena Hart
Elder Kevin and Sister Selena Hart rode with us and President and Sister Mehr on the surrey. They go home tomorrow. I like these folks. They were here previously but both of them got quite ill and they had to go home. They returned to finish out their 18 months. Our drivers were Elder White and Cousin Jake Hunt. Our horse team was Porter and Parley – both beautiful gray horse. The horses went into a panic once when in front of the Browning shop.
Above: Elders and Sisters Kevin Hunt and Kevin Hart and wives with President and Sister Mehr on surrey ride. Photo taken in front of the “Red Barn” home where Elder Hunt lived when a young missionary in 1975
President and Sister Mehr showed up. We got some good photos of us, the horses and the red barn. We then headed off on our ride. We rode for just over an hour. We drove down Main Street. All of the missionaries serving in the Main Street shops came out to greet us. The folks at Browning waved flags of some kind.
We later looked at the photos and one of them said, “Hoorah for Israel”. Other flags said other things. These kind of spooked the horses – as did as obstinate driver of the “Nauvoo Tours” bus. He did not know of the horse circumstances but he was determined to speed by us.
We had pleasant conversation all along the way – on a variety of subjects. Elder Harford was our official photographer. He had pre-selected many good photo op places. He took several photos of us at the Red Barn at the beginning of the ride. He stopped for photos in front of the Browning home, the Webb Blacksmith Shop, Joseph’s Red Brick Store, and the mansion house. Our final stop was on the grassy area on the hill below the Nauvoo Temple. I think that he took some great photos.
It was after the ride that I showed President Mehr the brick molds. He then said, “I don’t know anything about this.” We gratefully “hid” it in our car to take home with us.
Lou made some fudge for President Mehr. He loves fudge. (She has frequently made fudge for him. I tell him that he “looks good in it”.
I called Elder Lowe and he was excited about the brick mold news. He said also that he knows nothing but he agreed to somehow retrieve the other two parts of the mold combination (so that we would have a complete set). He said, “My name is Schwartz!”
COMPARING DANISH DNA
We then returned to the Homestead for the rest of the day. It was kind of a slow afternoon. I was very pleased with a group that we had. This was Jens and Niels Andersen and wives – from the country of Denmark. They are from Copenhagen but knew about Nakskov and Halsted and also Maribo County – the counties where my people lived. The two men knew English well but one wife had to be helped a bit by her husband. I told them that my recent DNA test revealed that I am 50% Danish. One of them quipped, “We are 100% Danish.” Har, Har!
Above: Jens and Niels Andersen, Danishmen, with wives and Elder Hunt at the Joseph Smith Mansion
Elder Jestice has composed many poems about Nauvoo and he has used an on-line app to create the music for the poems. I asked him for his help. I have written many poems that it would be fun to generate music for but the one that came to mind was “The Book of the Law of the Lord” – about the donations in Joseph’s Red Brick Store.
We worked all afternoon to try to get to the app so that he could show me how it works. We first had major challenges trying to get internet. Internet service is terrible in the Bidamon structure. And then the program itself was giving us headaches. He was baffled by this. The program works well on his computer. We finally got onto the app and it gave an error message saying that I needed to be approved to continue. I waited all afternoon for the approval. That message finally came about 9:00 PM.
A SURPRISE RECOLLECTION OF PAST SHARED EXPERIENCES
Above: Marriott Family Bikers
Alex Stromberg, one of the now-local Nauvoo Historians came to the site. He brought a large group about 30 people – who arrived on big fancy bikes. One of the group leaders is part of the Marriott family – great financial gurus who donate millions to good causes. Alex came and gave them tours. He took much longer than the rest of us do on his tours – and warned us ahead of time that he would do this. This kind of put the normal tours on hold for the afternoon.
Alex surprised me a bit. He said that he had just been reviewing the “Century of Honor” book that I helped to write for the Church back in 2013. He saw on the credits page that we had both worked together on this project. I thought that his name was familiar but he said (in current time) that he recently worked at the “This is the Place” monument in Salt Lake City – and didn’t mention the Church History Museum where I thought that he worked when we were on that project. I never physically met him since my contributions were by conference calls (with him in Utah and I was in Arizona). I guess he was very ill on the day when we had the big banquet and a photo op for all of the book crew. All of this was quite interesting and amazing.
Above: The 2013 “Century of Honor” book with Alex and Kevin Hunt listed as a part of the team
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, PRESIDENT MEHR!
That evening we went to the Performance Center. We participated with the missionaries We gathered for an ice cream social. The event organizers and the other members of the mission presidency tried to hide the true event details from President Mehr since it was staged as a birthday celebration for him. We stopped at the Dollar General store on our way to the Center and got ice cream. We saw about five other missionaries who were all there buying their ice cream.
There was a multitude of kinds of ice cream and toppings. It was a true smorgasbord. Elder Dennis Jones is our resident MC (master of ceremonies) and he is always hilarious. They had a giant card – about 6’ long and 3’ wide which most folks signed for the President. His own son and family were present from Utah.
After the ice cream, we all sang to the President. Then all of the young sisters came forward and shared their favorite quotes from President Mehr. Some were spiritual quotes from his talks but others were some of his famous sayings when given “off the cuff” when he has been “unhinged”. Those are great moments. It was evident that all of these young sisters greatly love their President.
I would hate to be as old as President Mehr – but I guess I will be in about five weeks.
MAKING AND GIVING A BRICK MAKING PRESENTATION
Back at home, I opened two files about brick making. One was the original book or presentation created on PowerPoint – about brick making in Nauvoo. The other was the book (not a presentation) about the miracles of the new brick creation. I saved the later as a PDF file and then converted it into a PowerPoint presentation. I deleted about half of each presentation and then combined the two into one presentation. We were to present this the next night to a district of which Elder Hopkinson is the district leader.
Above: “Nauvoo Homes, Brick Making and the Nauvoo Legacy of Elder E. H. Belcher” Book
Above: “Nauvoo temple Brick Inspiration and Miracles” Book
The next night (after the Rasmussen dinner), we went to the East Theater in the Historic Nauvoo Visitors’ Center. We had been invited by Elder Hopkinson to make a presentation about brick making in Nauvoo. There were a dozen or more people there – including Elders and Sisters Ward and Lowe – some of our best friends here. We met Elder Hopkinson and together we got my computer hooked up to the VC system. We had to call Elder Turner for some phone instruction. We got everything working.
Elder Hopkinson got the meeting going with prayer and announcements. He then turned the time to us. We used the computer system and cast it up onto the large VC screen. I used my “pointer” (remote clicker) to move from one screen to the next. This worked well until the small unit ran out of battery juice.
Lou and I went back and forth in the presentation. We made a good team. The presentation went well. We were pleased – and the people all seemed to enjoy it. We also took a number of bricks to display for the folks to check out.
CONTINUING CONNECTIONS AT JOSEPH’S RED BRICK STORE
Joseph’s store seems to be a place for connections and miracles. And September 23rd proved another day for such miracles.
As we were coming down the stairs, we saw Sister Groscost whom we have known in Mesa for many years. She has been a widow (wife of Jeff) for more than 20 years. She was on the tour with Sister Hatch (who also knew her from Mesa).
We hosted a family of 3 from South Carolina. The couple had a little boy who was about a year and a half. He had a lot of energy and he explored almost every inch of the place as we tried to give a tour with his folks. He was a cute little kid.
We had a group of 17 people. In this crowd were the daughter-in-law of President Mehr – with her three sons and also her parents. We hosted three ladies – maybe 3 generations.
We then hosted a very fun group of six people. Two of the men were named Rasmussen. They had a sister here and her husband is a great-grandson of Simeon A. Dunn. We invited them to our place to see the Dunn home but he didn’t have the interest in this. We had a great conversation with all of the group. They were really interested in our mission history – me being here years ago, the Brick legacy. We were surprised when they invited us to go to their home to eat dinner tonight. The one Rasmussen couple are Temple ordinance workers.
Our next to the last group was quite fun. This was Sister Black, a current Nauvoo Performing Missionary – and her folks and siblings. I enjoyed this group. They seemed to enjoy the messages. A man in the same group (not sure if they were related) gave the “Standard of Truth” as I invited him to do so. He got all choked up as he read and this brought the Spirit to us strong.
We served 77 people today. We were pretty swamped all day. We hardly had a chance to breathe all day. As we finished one tour, we went right into the next. We did find about ten minutes about 1 Pm for a real quick lunch.
We got home about 5:45 PM and quickly changed out of our costumes. We then went to the Rasmussen home (located in Temple housing on Partridge Street). The three couples were all anxiously awaiting our arrival. They fixed a wonderful lasagna dinner – with rolls, and salad and snickerdoodle cookies for us. This was all scrumptious.
We enjoyed a great conversation with the folks. They loved hearing our missionary and brick stories. It was a fun time with them.
PLANNING FOR VISITS FROM OUR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
Leaders of our mission encouraged visits of family members to their senior missionary grandparents. The summer before our mission we spent several glorious days with Jenae and family in Nauvoo. Our daughter Jackie and family and three other grandchildren came to visit us our first mission summer – in 2024. Then this July, Marinda and Larissa came with their families. We had invited all of the other families to come and kept hoping that they would.
They all wanted to come sooner but time and financial resources were hard to align for them. Then as our departure time was drawing near, the pressure was on. We were able to assist many of the families in their desires to come.
I have talked in the past about our little Simeon A. Dunn home and the basement. With the size of the place, we really could not handle more than one family at a time. We told them that we wanted them to come but that they could not come at the same time as any other family – purely a logistical thing (though it would have been fun to have bigger reunion groups).
It happened that we were to have a very busy final three weeks of our mission. They all decided to come at once. We had only about three days when no one was here – and there was no overlap of the four families. The intense schedule began September 23rd with the arrival of Lana and Spencer and four children. They were with us until the 27th. And then Keith and Kayla and their eight children arrived in their BMW (“Big Mormon Wagon”) the next night. They were here from September 28 through the 1st of October. Kaylea and JD came (without any children) on October 4th. (Two of their children had come the previous summer with their Texas youth groups.) Kaylea and JD flew into the Quad Cities airport in Moline, Illinois and we went to pick them up. They were here until Wednesday the 8th. We took them back to the airport early that morning. Then we waited around for a few hours to receive Rusty and Fabriza and their two children. They were with us to October 11th. (And we actually extended our mission by 13 days to accommodate their Fall Break schedule.) Whew! We were excited for the challenge!
The mission established some new guidelines for visits from families. In the past, there really was no system. The new plan was that missionaries could take off two days to hang out and take tours with families (plus their p-day). When “they” made that guideline, they didn’t plan for four Hunt families to come in rapid succession. About a month before their arrivals, I had created a comprehensive plan of the dates and had submitted this to the mission scheduler. She was very helpful and willing to work the schedule around our unique needs. We were so grateful (though we felt a bit guilty). But this was what the mission established … it was just a challenge that all of our peeps came in such a short time.
We did work during the time, however. We did not just sit on the couch and visit. We kept the families running crazy to see as many home and shops as possible. We wore our costumes each day and gave most (but not all) of the tours with the family. And on most of the tours, we welcomed other guests to join us. And many of the places where we visited, were actually closed on the day we visited. So, the guests with us actually got to see some homes that were otherwise unavailable to them. I think that we continued to help serve many people.
SETTING UP FOR OUR FIRST FAMILY GUESTS
After the brick presentation – described above, we went home and set up basement air mattresses for Lana and family. They were delayed by about three hours after trouble on a tarmac, delayed plane, etc. They flew into the “Quad Cities” Moline airport. They got a rental car. They had planned to be at our place about 9 Pm but that turned into about midnight.
It was about 12:15 AM when Lana and family arrived. It was great to see them. They left their home in Idaho Falls about 5:00 AM. They had to drive to Salt Lake City to catch an airplane. They rode a plane to Chicago and then had to get on another flight from there to Moline, Illinois. They got a rental car there and drove here to our town.
I will not here share a multitude of experiences with each family – but will share some highlights. Most of their experiences were pretty much the same – but there were some unique elements for each group.
LANA AND FAMILY EXPERIENCE NAUVOO WITH US
We did take Lana and family to the brickyard. All of the family members like to go there to feel of the family spirit and legacy. On the day we went there, we found that place had been purged of most items used in the brick production. They were trying to prepare for the changing of the kiln – from the old electric model to the incoming gas model. This switch was supposed to happen soon. We still showed them the clay pile in the storage barn. We showed the two stacks of the old and new bricks.
It appeared that the supply of the Belcher brick inventory is just about gone. (Sad!) And the stack of the new Temple brick is growing nicely. We sure wish that the formal “roll-out” of the new brick could have happened as we have been here.
The kids all took three four different bricks – cooked to various stages. They took the Nauvoo Brick as well as the Temple bricks.
It was in the midst of a historic day with the brickyard. The FM workers – including Elder Robert Lowe and employee Aaron Garrison were there working. They had a bunch of equipment that they used at different times. Their task was to switch out the old and new kilns. Their first task was to uninstall the old electric kiln. The two men worked together on this task.
Above: Elders Kevin and Bruce Rieske, Aaron Garrison, Elder Robert Lowe and Sister Lou Hunt
We (Lou and I) kind of popped in and out of their operation. We took many different photos of the various stages. Elder Belcher would have enjoyed being a part of this action.
We went down to participate in the Trail of Hope. The Nauvoo Performing Missionaries staged their little vignettes. This was our first time to see these in the daylight. Always before, we have seen it in the dark – with their little lanterns. All of the performers did well. The Allreds all seemed to enjoy the activity.
Above: Lana’s children on the Trail of Hope with the Nauvoo Performing Missionaries
After all of the Trail vignettes, we walked on down to the Mississippi River. We got there in time to see a big tug boat pushing barges. These are always interesting to watch. The Allreds enjoyed walking along the River, taking photos, etc.
We took Quincy to the Temple to perform baptisms. He was baptized for three of our family names. (Not sure how they are related – or if they are on some of the lines that I have researched for friends.) The new Temple President first talked to us. His name is President Thurman. Spencer baptized Quincy. The personnel let us go right up to the edge of the font – on steps opposite from the witnesses and recorder – to watch. This was great.
We made a stop at the Nauvoo Fudge Factory. We all bought more of the wonderful stuff than we needed. Yum!
We asked the kids what they wanted to see and they all wanted to go see where Joseph Smith lived. We went over there and Lou and I gave our usual tour presentations.
Above: Elder Kevin and Sister Lou Hunt teaching at the Joseph Smith Homestead
t was fun to present to our own grandchildren and children. I showed them the various spots where Joseph and Hyrum were buried. We took the family through Joseph’s Homestead and then the Mansion House. We then went to Joseph’s Red Brick Store. This was also a good tour with the Allreds.
We then went to see Elder Hampton. He said that he had some geode rocks that he could share with the kids. He has two rooms of his house that is full of these rocks – and more out on the back porch. I didn’t know, but I guess he was a professional geologist for 40 years. His wife was happy to see some of the rocks go out of the door. I guess our Carson loves rocks and has collected them for many years.
The kids would have liked to have taken more rocks but they simply did not have room for them in their already full luggage (too much weight).
I showed Spencer another approximate location where his Isaac Allred ancestor could have lived – per the map from “My Nauvoo Relatives”. Just as we arrived there, we were able to see a lot of action with a tug boat and its many barges. This seemed to just be stationary – not going anywhere. There were a multitude of barges attached to the tug boat. We then noted another barge coming slowly up around it. We were able to get photos of the two tug boats together. This was super cool.
We took the family to the Oxen experience. A young couple (a bearded guy) joined us there for the story. When it came time for the wagon ride, Lou and I opted not to ride – to make room for this family – the dad, mom, and two young boys. So Lana and Spencer and the four kids and these other four people rode on the wagon. Lou walked along behind and took photos. I had taken many photos that included the young family and I invited them to send the photos to themselves. This made them happy.
I talked to the husband and wife (separately) and learned that their names are Tyler and Emma Brinkerhoff. They are from Utah (I think from Spanish Fork). Upon learning their name, I told them about the homestead that still exists of their ancestor James Brinkerhoff. I tried to explain where it is located.
A couple of hours later, we were having a picnic on one of the benches at the Pioneer Pastimes Pavilion. We went to the picnic tables adjacent to the Pioneer Pastimes place. We there had a “wagon wheel picnic” (with the giant cinnamon roll from Annie’s).
We had brought plates, a knife, napkins, etc. Every one of us loved the rolls. I had bought two of them. I told everyone that they could each have a quarter of one of the rolls. Yum! And a fun little picnic activity.
Just as we were finishing the rolls, Tyler Brinkerhoff and family tracked us down and pulled up rapidly next to our car. He came to our table and asked me where his ancestor home was located. I decided that it would be easier to just lead him over to the place. He followed me to the fenced foundation site of the former James Brinkerhoff home. They were very happy to know where the ancestor lived. I took their photo. He pulled up James as his 3rd or so great grandfather and I showed him how to find his property map. The map corresponded to the information and site where I led them. Tyler had told his father about meeting me and me saying that I knew where the site was. It was his father whom persuaded him find me. The father said, “You need to find our family place.”
Above: Nauvoo Pioneer homesite of James Brinkerhoff
I told this Tyler that this whole activity is what we call a “Nauvoo Miracle”. I said that the Lord put us together. I told him that there is likely no other missionary who could have told them about the homesite location. I was grateful that I could be a part of their miracle.
We went to the Stoddard Tin Shop. We had previously met an Irish couple and had taken them on a couple of tours with us. This Irish couple acted as if they wanted to continue with us – so I invited them to come along. They got a kick out of inside family jokes – like Spencer being afraid if mice. I gave the history narration as usual and Lou did the presentation on how to make the tin pan.
We all – including the couple – went to the John Taylor home. I again did not cut any of the information about John Taylor as a prophet and witness of the Prophet Joseph Smith. We started the tour outside in the front of the house – since there was already a tour going on inside. I shared church stories of John – and also the final testimony of John of the Prophet Joseph. (I love reciting this!)
“i know that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God. I do not think it – I know it.” (One prophet testifying of another)
We all then went to the Print Shop. The couple again went with us – so they were with us in five different houses where Lou and I were the guides. At the print shop, Lou got all of the kids decked out in the printing outfits – and they all enjoyed this activity.
Sister Hunt and I gave the presentation to the family at the Riser Boot Shop and that was fun. Making shoes … A new Etsy opportuity!
OUR FINAL TIME AT THE MISSION HELLO-FAREWELL DINNER
We went Friday, September 26th to the Pageant building for the monthly hello-goodbye gathering. This was a happy sad evening. We took Lana and Spencer with us – though we were not sure if we could or should take them. It worked out okay, however, to have them there. There was plenty of food – as there always is at such events. A few people came and talked to Lana and Spencer and acted pleased that they were there. Sister Mehr later commented on the family and said that “we make beautiful children”.
The menu of the night was lasagna, salad, bread and desserts. They had about eight serving tables set up and this made the food line go smoothly. We sat at the end of one table and no one sat near us.
After the meal the MC (whom neither Lou nor I knew who he was) called upon all new couples to stand and be acknowledged. He then had departing young sister missionaries stand. The Temple missionaries were present with us. About fifteen of these couples are departing in October as the Temple closes for two weeks. He then called forward the folks who were in our MTC group – all 13 couples. We took several photos.
It hardly seemed possible that we could be going home. Where did that time go? It seems that we just arrived here. Then the chorister led the group in two versions of the “Farewell Nauvoo” song. Lou shed a few tears during these songs. I was saddened but maintained my emotions.
On the way home I noted that it appeared that the Zion’s Mercantile store was still open. It was right at 8:00 PM. We did not know if it was open so I parked the car and went over to check it out. I went in and asked if they were still open. A guy said, “We can be …” so I motioned for the family to come over. The Allred family enjoyed browsing the place – as I knew that they would. They bought several items. Lana also bought us a blue china plate – a replica of the one commissioned by Lucius Scovil when on his mission to England.
I had hoped to see Brian Christiansen, the owner of much of Nauvoo – and a friend of ours – to say goodbye to him. His son-in-law said that he was probably at the Fireside BBQ place located next door. We walked over there and could see him inside but the place was locked. He later showed up at the Mercantile. It was great to see him. I had hoped to see him once more before our departure.
Above: Brian Christiansen of Zion’s Mercantile with Lana’s children
Brian came in with six or so people and was preparing to take them on a tour of his “Tomb of Joseph” museum downstairs. When he learned that we had visiting family, he invited us to join his tour. This was good – since we had told Lana and Spencer that they should go down there to check out the place. We have been through this tour many times before but it was fun to be there with Lana and Spencer. We had to laugh at how Brian harassed Spencer. At one point he called him by name and asked him a question. Spencer was in his own world. Brian said, “Spencer … you are in the tour!” This was hilarious.
At this time, Keith and Kayla and their clan were progressing in their van toward Nauvoo. He last checked in with us about midnight. We prayed for them all along their way.
The next day, Lana and family went on their own (as we worked at the Weeks home) and saw many more homes. We took them to the Stonecutter’s Lodge (part of the Temple City tour where we were. The kids loved cutting and chipping on the limestone – as if it was for the temple. And then they headed off for the airport and their return trip to Idaho.
Keith and family continued their travel all of that day toward Nauvoo. Lou tracked them all day. We were worried that they needed to stop to rest but they didn’t do much. Keith drove most of the time. Kaylea drove for only a short bit.
KEITH AND FAMILY MADE IT TO NAUVOO
We continued communication with Keith and Family as they traversed today to Albuquerque, New Mexico, to Texas, to Kansas, Missouri and then toward Nauvoo. About 11:30 Pm they predicted a 12:15 Am arrival. They got here about 12:45 AM. They had had a long drive. It took them 27 hours to get here from our town of Maricopa, Arizona. (And we will be making that trek – in reverse in just a couple of weeks … but we plan take it in three days – with two overnight stays en route.)
We gave the family a tour of our place. We got them set up to sleep downstairs. They seemed to be okay with the accommodations. The only trauma was a moth that found its way downstairs. The Keith kids are all paranoid about bugs. This is always so funny to watch them go into a major panic over any bug.
By this time it was September 28th – Sunday. With all of the excitement of getting into the place and somewhat organized, we ended up being up until 1:45 AM. We were all ready for bed by that time.
DEATH OF OUR BELOVED PROPHET PRESIDENT RUSSELL M. NELSON
As we were engaged in the above, we received the message (not sure from whom) that our Prophet and Church President Russell M. Nelson had died. He died last night (September 27th) about 10 PM at his home, He had just had his 101st birthday on September 9th. He lived a long and wonderful life. He spent his early years as a medical heart surgeon – and pioneered the artificial heart. I read that he conducted about 5,000 surgeries before he became an Apostle 40 years ago.
President Nelson was our Prophet for about seven years. He was sustained in January of 2018. He implemented many changes to the church systems – including changing home teaching to ministering. He made the decision for the church to leave the Boy Scouts of America. Under his leadership, he announced about 150 new temples which have now been completed or are in various stages of development.
It is interesting that he died just a week before our General Church conference. So, this should be a really interesting week. I am not in charge but it would be my guess that the first presidency will be reorganized prior to the conference and that a solemn assembly might be held as a part of the conference.
Per long established pattern as set by the Lord Jesus Christ, the senior Apostle will become the next prophet. This means that President Dallin H. Oaks will become our new prophet. I have taught the succession process for a Prophet change – on every tour that I have presented in Joseph Smith’s Red Brick Store.
THE FUN BEGINS WITH KEITH AND FAMILY
We were asked to attend the Nauvoo Visitors’ Branch that Sunday. It would have been great to have been at our own missionary “ward” to hear final messages by young sisters and many senior couples – who are all leaving soon but I felt it our duty to go as requested to the Branch. We got there early enough to help set up chairs (6-7 rows only) in the cultural hall.
Lou had a very difficult time the night before (after Keith had arrived). Late evening, she developed a bad case of Vertigo – a situation where the body gets “off balance” and she said she had a spinning sensation. She tried to do various exercises that she found on-line relative to the situation. As I went to sleep, she was battling the trauma and was not in a good way. She was distressed again this morning and did not feel well. After the chair thing, I asked Elder Burr to help me give her a priesthood blessing. I was grateful for his assistance – and also that we had the power from the Lord Jesus Christ to perform such an ordinance.
Keith and family remained at home. Keith greatly needed sleep after his long driving ordeal. But soon after we returned home, they were up for touring. We first took them to the Visitors’ Center where we showed them the introductory movie, “Remembering Nauvoo”.
We then drove out to the Carthage Jail. Keith had me drive his vehicle and he and Kayla sat in the very back of their large van.
Sister Christine Graham presented a great Carthage Jail tour to us. She was joined by Elder Graham later on. Both of them gave good tours. Sadly, our tour was probably the last tour that Elder and Sister Graham will give on their mission. Sad!
Above: Elder and Sister Hunt with son Keith anf family at the Carthage Jail
The next morning, we went to the horse barns to watch the Teamsters bring the horses in for their grain. This is always so fun to watch. The Teamsters were on a reduced crew today. All of the men who came from the MTC with us were not there. Only Elder Ward was there to assist them. Our family loved watching the horse action. The horse John revolted and caused a scene.
Two teamsters invited our family over to have prayer with them and the horses as they prepared for their day. This was great for Keith and family to be a part of this.
The same teamsters invited our family to go on the “bonus ride” from the barn to the wagon barn located behind the Scovil Bakery. Lou drove our car and went home and got Elsie. I drove Keith’s van but first went to the Visitors’ Center to get tickets for the “Book of Mormon” show (not that name) later at the 70’s Hall.
We went to the South Visitors’ Center to watch the “Songs of Zion” musical program staged by the Nauvoo Performing Missionaries. This is such a great program. Several of the YPM’s took a lot of individual time with Keith’s kids. They talked with them, learned their names, and challenged them to do good things. I was really proud of Elder Mersed, Peterson, and others. They were terrific.
Elder Mercer learned of Eliza’s name and he started calling her “Eliza R. Snow”. Our Eliza really liked this.
We had thought to go to the Joseph Smith properties but Elder Mercer suggested that we go hear the “Youth of Zion” performance – held in the back yard of the Heber C. Kimball home. We had never seen this performance. As we arrived, Elder Mercer said loudly, “Hey, here is Eliza R. Snow”. (So great!). He also called our Emerson “Ralph Waldo Emerson”.
Elder Mercer went to a nearby giant tree with gigantic leaves. He brought one of the large leaves from the tree and presented it to our Eliza with the suggestion that it could be an umbrella to shade her for the sun. Such a funny guy!
The performance was fabulous. It talked of youth organizations here in old Nauvoo. After the show, we visited with Elder Wells). He was totally amazed at the brick story of Lou and Keith (as engineer of the new Temple Brick). It was fun to visit with him.
We went to the Sunset stage for the “Sunset by the Mississippi” song and dance program. We took Keith and company to the side of the stage where part of the very old stage is still kind of visible. We got Keith and family to get the traditional Hunt family pose on the bridge (in descending order from oldest to youngest – top down to bottom.)
Above: Keith and family at “City of Joseph” bridge
Above: Kevin and Lou Hunt and clan on Stage Bridge – “City of Joseph” Pageant cast 1997
The Elders came and talked to our kids – and Elder Mercer got excited with he saw “Eliza R. Snow” before the show.
The show was wonderful, as usual. Our group seemed to love it. The performers even got Stetson, Jackson, Weston, Eliza, and Everly to go onto the stage for the children’s addition to the show. Lou and I enjoyed visiting with Elder Moody. I think that this guy looks and acts like our Grant Roller.
As ever, the show was wonderful. I enjoyed watching the various performers – and especially since we have come to know many of the men (mainly from their interaction with our kids today).
After the show, Elder Mercer rolled around, danced, and played with about 15 kids. Many of our kids were in this group. We visited with the little Elder Ellis (from Salem, Utah) came and talked with us. We had good conversation. He talked of Elder Mercer entertaining the kids and said, “I don’t know how he does that … it is a spiritual gift”.
At Keith’s suggestion, we took the family up to the Temple (“to see it”). Sadly, we found all of the gates locked and so we were not able to get into the grounds. (it was only 8:00 PM). We took may group photos taken in various poses. Keith learned a new trick or photo skill today. He used a function called “Add Me”. With this he can take a group photo, then one of just him – and he can get the photo to show him as if he was in the original photo. This created a professional “selfie” view.
We took the family to the Brickyard.
Keith was anxious to go there. When he was just nine years or so of age, he spent a couple of weeks working with his grandpa Belcher at his brickyard that he had established at the “This is the Place” monument in Salt lake City. And of course he was the engineer who created the CAD files for the development of the new Temple bricks. He was invested!
Above: Sister Lou Hunt and Keith Hunt examining the new Temple brick that he helped to engineer (also Elder Dennis Jones)
Above: Keith and Lou Hunt displaying new gas kiln
We liked seeing the new gas kiln. There were FM missionaries there trying to get the gas line installed. We took several photos reminiscent of the Belcher legacy. We learned from Elder Rieske that Elder Jackson (new) will now become the coordinator for the brick yard. The Rieskes extended for a month to shepherd getting the new kiln in. He also said that the new Temple Brick began to be given out yesterday at the Visitors’ Center. This all made this day a very historic moment.
Later that day, Keith kind of wanted to get Temple photos in the day time. We were there the night before – so we were limited in what we could photographs. We had fun there. Eliza wanted the task of organizing and posing all of us for photos. She had fun and got some good photos.
We could tell that the sunset was going to be amazing so we hurried to the beach at the end of Parley Street. We got some great sunset photos and of the people in various poses in the sunset.
I later shared some history stuff with Keith on various subjects. He is interested in this stuff.
I prepared a bunch of boxes to be sent home with Keith. He said that he has a lot of space in his big van. This will be a very major help to us. We would otherwise be very cramped for space.
Last night most of the kids (like six of the eight) ended up sleeping upstairs (in our very tiny living room) with the folks. They are all afraid of any and all bugs and they thought that they might have an invasion of them downstairs. So, the folks pulled one over on the kids. They made their own beds downstairs (alone) and left the children upstairs. So funny!
The next morning (October 1st) Kayla worked on their vehicle – to give it a cleaning for their return trip home. Keith got some good sleep. This was good – since they will likely drive straight through the 27 hours.
Kayla saved quite a bit of space in the back of their van. They had more stuff but they had room for about a dozen of our boxes. This was a very major blessing for us. We have known that we were overstretched with junk to get home. Lou has been quite worried about the situation. I loaded the boxes into their van and got everything in that I wanted to send. This timely help will make it possible for us to get the rest of our stuff (I think) into our van. I gave Keith $200 for gas for the way home – and in gratitude for him taking our stuff home. a GREAT investment!
We went to the visitors’ center so that Lou could take a photo of Keith with the new Temple brick. Elder Rieske said that they put the new ones there yesterday.
Above: Sister Lou Dene Belcher Hunt and Keith Hunt – co-designers of the new Nauvoo Temple Brick 2025
Keith also wanted to go to the sewing room – on Lou’s recommendation. As Keith and Lou came back to the cars, Keith came to me and said that Easton really wanted to say goodbye to the Nauvoo Performing Missionaries – who have become friends to all of the family. This was a great but surprising request of the shy and quiet Easton. I looked at the NPM schedule and saw that they were to come to the visitors’ center for their “Remembering Joseph” production that was set to start in 25 minutes. I said that the NPM’s would arrive soon.
We started for the Sewing Center. As we were rounding the corner onto Young Street, we saw one of the NPM vans coming around the opposite way. I got them stopped and said that our kids wanted to say good-bye to the NPM’s. We made a U-turn and headed back to the center parking lot. We pulled up and all of the kids piled out as the missionaries did likewise. Elder Mercer remembered the names of all of Keith’s kids. Again he called Eliza “Eliza R. Snow”. She was all smiles. We got some good photos of our kids posed with many (but not all) of the NPM’s that we have associated with the past couple of days.
Above: Keith and Family saying good-bye to their Nauvoo Performing Missionary friends
We then went to the sewing center. Sister Roxanne Beauregard, the head of the sewing center, graciously took our kids on a tour of the place. Everyone was in awe of the place and what they produce there. Sister B. was great with the kids. She also gave them each some candy – at the end of the tour.
And then they were off … heading back to Arizona.
OUR EXIT INTERVIEW WITH PRESIDENT AND SISTER MEHR
Keith and family headed for Arizona and we went to our home. Lou and I had to scurry around to vacuum and put some stuff away – to tidy up the house. We expected President and Sister Mehr to arrive at 2:00 PM at our place – for our exit interview. We didn’t have a lot of time but we got the place looking good.
As the Mehrs arrived, we talked of Keith. We had hoped to get the two of them together. We called Keith on the phone and the two talked for a few minutes. President Mehr thanked him for his work on the new Temple brick. Keith said that they were then at David’s Chamber eating their lunch (that Lou had packed for them). Keith had kind of wanted to go there – following a “City of Joseph” memory of going there to dig geodes when he was about nine years ago.
Above: Elder Kevin and Sister Lou Hunt (outsides) final photo with mission leaders President Daniel S. Mehr, II and Sister Rebecca Mehr October 1,2 025
We had a good visit with the Mehrs. He asked us what we will take home with us from Nauvoo and what we have learned here. The pres. has been wanting to receive the books that I have written here in Nauvoo and I thought that this transfer might happen today. Not so! He set a calendar reservation for October 12th to get with us again. That is the night before our departure for home.
We somehow got onto the subject of the fudge that Lou has made a few times for them. They both raved about Lou’s famous fudge. Lou then divulged her recipe: Heat a can of sweetened condensed milk and mix in a 12 ounce bag of chocolate chips until the chips are all melted. Then add nuts if desired. Cool, eat and enjoy. Sister Mehr was dumfounded to hear that the recipe was that simple. She said, “that is deceptively easy”.
We talked a bit about my books and I said that I am good at writing but not at all good at marketing and getting others to buy the books. He then told me what I need to do. He said, “You need to begin a podcast to share the history with people.”. He was serious. Sister Mehr said that I could call the show, “Greetings from Nauvoo.” President Mehr then imitated (very well) my “Greetings” – even getting my voice inflection perfect. So funny! (The young sister missionaries and many other folks all seem to enjoy my “Greetings!” It is my “trademark”. That has been my “word” since I was about age 12!)
We gave Pres. Mehr the Belcher brick poster that we made. We could not tell if he liked it or not, but he did ask me to send it to him digitally.
I gave Pres. Mehr a copy of my “Peter the Apostle” book and her a copy of my musical cantata. I also gave Pres. Mehr a list of my published books.
We had a phone conversation with Marinda – and then Lana. Both wanted to know about our visit with Keith and family. We talked momentarily with Grant and Elliot. Although we will have been home only two days, two or three weeks before this we had agreed to tend the seven children while the parents went on a date. In today’s call, Grant mentioned that we are to tend them on October 17th. I guess they are looking forward to it. Sadie reiterated the full routine that we do when the Roller children come to our place. It will be fun to get back into that groove with the grand kids.
We got a text from Keith at dinner time. They made it to Kansas City. While he was here, I loaned Keith a hat. He had forgotten one and he has to wear one always for sun protection. I pointed him up to my closet and my hat collection. I told him that he could pick any hat that he wanted to borrow. He found a soft brown felt-like hat – one that I really like. Then today he forgot to return the hat back to me.
In his message, Keith said that Jackson had said that he loved the hat and he wants to latch onto it. I wrote back and said, “Confession Time … I actually have another hat just like it … not sure how that happened.” I said maybe Jackson and I can wear the hat and be the same sometime. He wrote back, “Haha, even better”.
ALWAYS WILLING AND ANXIOUS TO ASSIST NEW FRIENDS WITH FAMILY HISTORY RESEARCH
The next day, October 2nd, Sister Hunt and I were scheduled to work at the Seventies Hall.
After we were both ready for the day, we called up a special broadcast prepared by President Dallin H. Oaks, our new prophet.
This program was in honor of President Russell M. Nelson. This was kind of like a funeral program. He talked as did President Jeffrey R. Holland, Elder Cook of the 70’s Presidency, Bishop Causse – the Presiding Bishop of the /church and a couple of ladies from General Presidencies. It was a wonderful presentation on the life of President Nelson. Everyone shared special memories of his love, care, knowing and loving everyone. He will be greatly missed. He left a wonderful and lasting legacy.
Lou and I served today at the Seventies Hall. We did not have to report until 10:00 AM. We went to the “winter site schedule” the day before. So, the sites open at 10 AM and close at 4 Pm. (It was 9 AM and 5 PM.)
At the beginning of the day a cable install worker came in his company truck. His name is Trenton Martin. He is a young guy about age 25. He was impressive. He needed to access the cable tower that was located within the horse corral – with the hot electric wire to keep horses inside the fences. I called Jessie at Facilities Maintenance and she sent Barant out to work with the folks.
As we were waiting, I talked with Trenton about Nauvoo and all that is available to guests here. He had no clue that there were so many homes and shops to see. He said it is cool that all of this history is here. Somehow this led to the topic of family history. He said that he has always been interested in family history but didn’t know how to do it. I said, “I can help you!” I asked him for the name of his Martin great grandfather and he even knew the name and that he lived around Galesburg, Illinois. I got the guy’s name – Paul Martin and I estimated his birth year at 1920.
I told Trenton to come in to see me before he left the job site. I went in and began researching the family line. I found enough information to help him to know that I had found his family. I told him that I would continue to research his family and would send him some information – but maybe not until after I return from my mission. He gave me his e-mail address and phone or text number.
I continued to work on his research and found quite a bit of information. This was a fun diversion from my usual history research of the moment.
I told Trent that I would continue to work at researching his family lines but that I would be going home in just a couple of weeks. I told him that after I got home and things have settled down a bit, I would again take up his research. I promised to send him more information. And true to my work, I did this. I researched on his family for a couple of weeks and then created a package of 160 plus research documents, a pedigree chart and more. It was all great, but I was especially happy to send him a special gift. This was a 6-generation pedigree chart – with every name filled it. Wow!
THE BOOK OF MORMON
That same day at the 70’s Hall, at 3:00 Pm, we hosted the men of the Nauvoo Performing Missionaries. These were all of the guys that we became close to with Keith and family. It was fun to connect with them again as friends. We again got to experience their performance of “The Spirit of God” – about The Book of Mormon.
Two days previous, Elder Mersed connected with Eliza as noted above. And yesterday (just before Keith and family left for home) we took Keith and family to the missionary Deseret Industries unit in the mail room. Some of the family members found something that they wanted to keep and Lou let them. Eliza was drawn to a blue Book of Mormon. Lou noted her selection, but also that it was in Spanish. Lou found an English version (already marked) and traded her books.
Today in the “Book of Mormon” program, Elder Mersed held up a blue Book of Mormon at the end of the program. As we saw him hold up the Book, it hit Lou and me at the same time that this is why Eliza wanted the Book – because she had a connection with Elder Mersed and remembered him holding it up. Wow! It will be interesting to track the future of this book with the family.
We shared this story with Elder Mersed and it made him very happy. He could not believe it. It was all kind of cool.
UNPLANNED EXCITEMENT AT HOME AND IN OUR RETURN PREPARATIONS
Mike noticed a couple of weeks ago that there is evidence of termites in our home in Maricopa. They have a friend in their ward who treats for these pests. Mike and this Brother Hoffman went to the place tonight and they found much evidence of termites. This was not at all good news. We received an estimate from Sister Hoffman and it said that it would cost $630 to complete the eradication – with a 2-year warranty. I hate to spend that kind of money but I guess we do not have a choice in the matter. They discounted the price to $630 from $840. I was grateful for this.
We also had to buy new front tires for our vehicle – and then this led to an alignment. These things all added some challenge to our financial situation.
KEITH’S TRIP HOME
It was Friday, October 3rd. We tracked Keith and family along their travel way home. The last Lou heard from him (as she made her frequent calls) was about 7 PM our time and he said that they had about four more hours of driving time from Show Low where they were – and to their/our Maricopa home. He is crazy to drive that far going straight through. They did stop a couple of times for food – and even for two or three hours at a truck stop along the way.
We called Keith as we were getting into bed. We helped to “talk him home”. We talked to him to help keep him awake. We talked as he was from Apache Junction clear home. He told us that he fell asleep momentarily at one point and swerved over into the ongoing traffic. It was a miracle that he did not have an accident. We know that the Lord protected him because of the prayers of family members. We were grateful that he and all of the family members were spared alive.
We served that day at the Browning home and gun shop. On one tour we hosted a guy named Weech – from Surprise, Arizona. I told him that my parents used to live by a Weech family on Greenfield Road in Mesa/Gilbert. We determined that these folks are his grandparents. We were both amazed.
A SPECIAL NIGHT OUT
That evening we went and ate at the ritzy Hotel Nauvoo. I have known of this place for years. I ate there once – maybe twice – as a young missionary. (And BTW … I just read in my 1975 journal and the buffet cost then was $7.50) We ate there once when we were here for the pageant. We have kind of wanted to try the place but we heard that it cost $86 for two people. We have felt that this cost was way out of our budget and interest. Lana got wind of this desire and surprised us with a $100 gift certificate to the place. I am grateful for her kindness to us but in taking it, I feel as if we are robbing the “widow’s mite”. I know money is kind of hard to come by for her and them.
The place says that it was built in 1840. They brag about their dinner and salad buffet (cost of $30). The salad bar is about like the one in Keokuk but more expensive. The main dish options were not anything special. We decided that the bill pays for the ambiance of the place. The place really is decorated elegantly. It was a wonderful night out!
By October 4th, I had been spending every free moment (when not on tours with our family) trying to complete the history for the July mission history/news.
I sent the file to Sister Mehr for review at 5:23 PM and she sent it back to me as approved at 10:03 PM on the same day. Wow! I wrote to her and said that if the old saying is true that “a picture says a thousand words, then this speaks volumes” (because of the plethora of photos contained in it. She wrote back, “Elder Hunt, this looks really great. Love it! It’s great to send in.”
Sister Mehr also said, “I have to tell you about Elder Jackson, a new site missionary – he was wondering where all of this great information has been coming from … that just shows up in his email, and he gets to read all about Nauvoo and the history. He is thrilled! Thanks for all your amazing work.” Wow … nice!
We served that day at Joseph Smith’s Red Brick Store. Sister Hunt forgot her notes for the store and had to go back for them. This left me outside (not being able to be alone with the ladies inside). I noted that there were a lot of bugs, spider webs, and other bug stuff on and around all of the windows and doors of the Store. I got the broom and swept down all of the store front (that I could reach). The place was greatly improved after my efforts. I also swept all of the walks around the place.
We received our first group about 11 Am and this was 8. Included with the group was the Halblieb family from the Santa Cruz Ward in Maricopa. They used to be in the same ward as Marinda and Mike but also know Rusty and Fabriza. We took them on a tour earlier this week. A great family.
The folks were not on our tour but I enjoyed visiting with a guy named Eric Wheelright and his teen son, Blake. I asked him about Nauvoo ancestors. He mentioned that he has Rawson relatives. I said, “Let’s do ‘Relatives around Me”. I predicted that we would be 3rd cousins and we found that we are fourth cousins once removed. He was a great guy and I enjoyed visiting with him and telling him where our Rawson ancestors lived – across the street from the horse barns. He got excited with this information.
Today was a bit traumatic – since it was our last scheduled tour of our mission – but it was great that it was at Joseph’s Red Brick store – one of my favorite places and tours. It may not be our final tour, however, since we may give tours next week to Kaylea and Rusty and families. This is all very sad! Where has that time gone?
While at the Store, I worked to clear the name of our former neighbor, Silver Dills, for Temple work. She was our neighbor in Santa Paula, California and we loved her. Since she is not a relative, we had to wait until she turned age 110 in order to do her work. Today was the 110th anniversary of her birth – so I got her name cleared. I got her cleared for baptism work, endowment, and sealings to her parents and husband (divorced). This was exciting for us.
I wanted to do her work the next week. I wanted to do it while Kaylea is here but that will not work. They have only 9 and 10 AM baptism sessions on Tuesday and that doesn’t jive with their endowment times. We are planning to go to the Temple for an endowment session with Kaylea and JD. And Tuesday afternoon the temple is closed for the funeral of President Nelson.
In addition to the above, today was our church’s General Conference. We wanted to see and hear it but this was not really possible with our guests. We heard only a few minutes here and there. President Oaks conducted as the President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (which is now 14 since the First Presidency was dissolved at the death of President Nelson).
At the beginning of the first session – which we missed, Pres. Oaks talked of Pres. Nelson. He said that in honor of Pres. Nelson, they were going forward with the Conference schedule that he planned months ago. He also noted that he had requested other speakers to just give their planned talks – without extensive talking about Pres. Nelson (since that could occupy the whole conference. Plus, Conference talks are written weeks in advance for language translation, etc.).
We really did not hear any of the conference. Sad! We will have to try to listen to the sessions later.
WE WELCOMED KAYLEA AND JD
Kaylea and JD were to fly to us today. The plan was for them to get on a United Airlines flight from Salt Lake City to Denver, Colorado. They boarded the plane and were ready to head out. Then they received news that planes cannot land in Denver (for some undisclosed reasons). This created trauma for Kaylea and JD. They were able to get a change of flight – to fly to Chicago instead of to Denver. Luckily there were two late flights that could take them from Chicago to Moline. There were more delays.
We headed out to go to Moline. We had hoped to eat at the little hamburger drive-in that is located east of the city of Dallas City. I was psyched up for food at this place and the atmosphere that it might provide (interesting milk shake flavors, etc.). We got there and sadly learned that the place had closed for good on September 14th. I hate to see family businesses close.
We got to the airport about 10:15 PM and learned that Kaylea and JD would not arrive until 11:30 PM. We found a quiet place – one of the few that was not right under an airport garage light. We there had a nap for an hour and this was very good. I needed the nap in order to make the drive home.
We went inside and met Kaylea and JD about 11:45 PM. We got there just as they were coming down the terminal. It was great to see them again. Sadly, with all of the airline stuff that was going on, their two suitcases did not catch up with them. We had to leave without them – and JD would spend most of the next day trying to track them between Salt Lake, Denver, Chicago and Moline. Kaylea was not real pleased – since all of her “cute” clothes and her big camera were in her lost suitcase.
The drive went okay and we visited en route home. We arrived home after 2:00 AM and did not get to bed until almost 3 AM. Not fun! We set up the air mattresses and got Kaylea and JD comfortable.
It was October 5th – a Sunday. It was also a day for our Church General Conference. Sadly we were not able to watch the conference sessions. We had Kaylea and JD with us and we needed or wanted to take them to various sites (since it is not everyday that one gets to Nauvoo). There was so much to see and homes to visit we needed to maximize our time with them.
We then went to the Visitors’ Center once again. We had previously acquired tickets to be a part of the “Love of the Savior” presentation staged by the Nauvoo Performing Missionaries (as their final production for this season). Lou and I were excited about this show as we had never seen it before. The show was absolutely fabulous. They sang many hymns and had good narration. The Spirit was very strong. I wish that I could remember specifically some of the hymns that they sang.
I especially enjoyed the final song sung by Elder Logan O’Donnell. I love his voice. Later that night, Elder O played the role of Brigham in one of the Trail of Hope vignettes. Quoting Brigham, he said, “Let the fire of the covenant burn in you …” He was amazing.
We happened to sit right in front of President and Sister Mehr. We were happy to introduce them to Kaylea and JD. They had a good conversation – starting to talk about the new bricks and the role of Kaylea and JD relative to the development of the new design.
Right after the program we headed off toward Carthage. We were anxious to take Kaylea and JD there. I had failed to remember that the schedule of the day reverted to winter hours – and that tours would end at 4 PM. Luckily we arrived there about 3:35 PM. We had Elder James and Sister Duthie as our guides there. They team tagged the tour and they were really amazing. I think that they gave the best tour I have heard at Carthage (at least in recent times). They did an excellent job and they spoke with the power of the Spirit.
We went out to the courtyard and were pleased to visit with sister Torri Sanders. Lou was pleased to introduce her to our Kaylea – whom they had talked about before.
I realized that Sister Duthie’s maiden name is Lisonbee and that she is related to Reed Lisonbee – whom Kaylea dated for some time. I mentioned this connection and Kaylea and Sister Duthie had fun reminiscing about Reed and him coming to Carthage with Kaylea back in 2002.
Above: Kaylea Stoddard with Sister Duthie
After the tour ended, we went back into the center. Elder Duthie was there listening to the final conference talk of President Oaks. We joined him for the last part of the talk.
Above: Watching General Conferenmce from the Carthage Jail … surreal!
We did go to the Trail of Hope. This was their last such presentation (and the last of any of their presentations this season. All of the Nauvoo Performing Missionaries leave for home on Tuesday. A sad day when they depart.
Kaylea and JD tried all day long to connect with the Moline airport and United Airlines but had no success in getting their suitcases brought to them in Nauvoo. Late in the afternoon, they got confirmation that the two bags had arrived in Moline (separate flights). The suitcases were being held in the secured area for the airline. Kaylea really wanted her clothing and camera from her suitcase.
We decided that it would be best to make the 100-mile (one way) trek back to the airport. Just the thought of this was quite traumatic – since we were all very tired after the very late night last night. We went home and ate a quick dinner. We then headed out. We got out as far as the Pageant Building and Kaylea realized that she didn’t have her ID and she was in a panic thinking that they would be required to get the luggage. So, we turned around and headed back to our home for her identification.
I drove to the airport but was very tired as I did so. It was hard to stay awake but I somehow was able to do so.
As we got to the airport, Kaylea and JD went inside. They could find any worker there to get the luggage to them. Lou and I went and parked in the long term parking lot and walked in to the terminal. As we got to them, they saw a worker who was able to assist them. I was so tired that I could not drive home. I let J.D. do the return drive home. I mostly slept – and this was good.
It was about 1:00 AM when we got home. This was way too late after several late nights.
In spite of the late night the night before, we took Kaylea and JD to see the Teamsters. Lou and I went to the brickyard. The activity of the day was the moving of the various furniture” elements of the place into a new configuration – in order to accommodate the new large kiln.
Above: Brick room redo with new gas brick kiln at right. (Pug mill at left)
I guess the kiln specs say that there has to be a 3’ space all around the structure. This meant that all of the shelves and tables needed to be rearranged also. There was not much for me to do. There were a half dozen men there from the Facilities Maintenance operation. They had things well under control. I took on the role of taking a bunch of photos to document the historic occasion and I enjoyed watching the men in action. I talked to a new Elder Spjut. He seemed quite sharp. I watched Elder Jackson- who will become the new coordinator for the brickyard after Elder Rieske departs at the end of the month.
We returned to the horse corrals. Kaylea, JD, and Lou all decided to ride with the teamsters to the wagon depot. I followed behind in our vehicle.
Just before they arrived, I received a phone call from Elder Lowe. He had the other two parts of the old brick old to give to me. He used the phrase, “I don’t know anything about this … I know nothing.” (That is also what President Mehr said.)
At Elder Lowe’s direction, I met him at the end of the FM weld and machine shop and he gave me the mold frame as well as the small piece called the “positive” – so now we have both the positive and the negative. I said to Elder Lowe, “Thanks for nothing!” He just smiled.
Later in the day We went back to the brickyard and showed Kaylea and JD the brick making processes. We could not demonstrate everything since the place has been dismantled for a while – and is just now getting setup once again.
JD helped Lou screw a plastic box shelf into the wall at the brickyard. In this box Lou put a copy of my book about the “Miracles of the New Nauvoo Temple Brick”. She was anxious to put this there for reference by future missionaries so that “the Belcher legacy” can be kept somewhat alive. (Otherwise after our departure there will be no future evidence of the Belcher legacy. We had hoped to get a few more things going to maintain the legacy – but this didn’t happen (since the local historians do not seem to be in favor of anything. And our buddy Susan – the regional communications lady is not into the bricks at all.) Lou also posted a laminated poster about the Brick process and the legacy.
Above: Belcher and Nauvoo Brick information poster (left center) posted on the wall at the Brickyard
We put these items there since the historians do not monitor what goes on in the brickyard – since it is secluded and unseen by our guests. So, we did our best to install just a bit of history in the place. It was also fun earlier to document the new design of the brick-making facility.
On Tuesday, October 7th, I recorded: “Wow! What a busy day! We really packed it in.” We could say that about every day that we spent with our families.
We began the day with a trip to the Temple for an endowment session. It was a great experience to take Kaylea and JD to the fabulous Nauvoo Temple. It is such a beautiful place!
After the session we took Kaylea and JD into the hallway at the left of the main entrance. We saw the sword that belonged to James Allred – an ancestor of Spencer. This sword was given to James in Carthage as he was there with Joseph and Hyrum.
We went to the Sunset Stage. We talked of parts of the old “City of Joseph” stage that kind of peek out of hidden corners. We took our traditional photos at the vine-covered bridge where we came out to enter the stage when in the production.
All of the sites closed today at noon for the funeral – so we had free reign of these places.
We went to the Visitors’ Center and joined a bunch of missionaries for the funeral of President Russell M. Nelson, our recently deceased prophet. The funeral was wonderful. President Oaks conducted. Speakers included a Nelson daughter and their only son (among nine daughters). It was fun to hear from Russell M. Nelson, Jr. He seemed like a great guy.
Then we heard from Sister Camille Johnson, the general Relief Society President, President Jeffrey R. Holland, President Henry B. Eyring, and then President Oaks. All were great talks and we learned much of the love, organization and accomplishments of President Nelson.
We took Kaylea and JD to the Print shop. Kaylea was anxious to go there – since she used to help in the printing of the newspaper in Bastrop, Texas. As we entered the door, we smelled a very strong natural gas smell. We determined that there was a gas leak from the downstairs gas furnace. We opened the doors on both sides of the building to let fresh air in and to try to air out the gas.
We also went to the Family Living Center. Kaylea was pleased there to see a demonstration of pottery making. She wants to start a pottery business.
I called President Preston and he was able to get Charles – the Brazilian A/C tech to come check out the problem. We spent quite a bit of time waiting for this situation to be taken care of. We gave much of the tour outside but Kaylea still got to see the printing stuff inside.
We then went to the Lucy Mack Smith home. We shared many photos of Verna and H Belcher as they served at this home (1979-1981) and Kaylea re-enacted many of these photos with Lou and me in the Belcher roles.
soster??????????
Above: Sister Belcher as Lucy Mack Smith
Above: Sister Lou Dene Belcher Hunt posing as Lucy Mack Smith just as her mother had back in 1979-1981
Later that night we were able to tell JD and Kaylea that we had shown them everything. Wow! We were exhausted after the very long – but wonderful day. It was great to be home.
Back at home, Kaylea and JD repacked their things. I helped JD learn how to use “My Nauvoo Relative” and he checked out all of his 58 or so ancestors – plus more folks on the various FamilySearch indexes. I handed Kaylea the two books of our Nauvoo ancestors. She really got into the autobiography of Elizabeth Jane Perkins and she read it aloud to us. She was really loving what she read.
A LONG AND BUSY DAY AT THE MOLINE AIRPORT
We got a very early start the morning of October 7th. I got up at 4:40 AM to shower and get ready to leave the house by 5:30 AM. I drove us to Moline – again. We are keeping that highway really hot this week!
We got to the airport about 7:45 – in plenty of time to get their luggage checked in. We watched them proceed through the security process. It was sad to see them leave. We have enjoyed the visit with them.
We needed to wait around the airport since Rusty and family were set to arrive about 12:15 PM. We decided to leave the airport. We went to a nearby McDonald’s fast food joint and ate breakfast. Everything on the menu had egg and cheese (not my favorites). I got a plain sausage biscuit.
We returned to the airport terminal. We both worked on our journal entries of the past few days. I typed full entries for Monday and Tuesday – both very BUSY DAYS. I was able to get caught up on my writing so this was very good. I finished this task about 11:30 AM.
RUSTY AND FAMILY ARRIVE TO BE WITH FOR OUR FINAL DAYS IN THE MISSION
Rusty, Fabriza, Sienna and Lucas arrived safely about 12:30 PM. This was good. They brought only one large piece of luggage.
They were very anxious to eat lunch at a nearby Olive Garden. This worked well – except that it kind of cut us close to get home. We all got the soup, salad, and bread sticks. I got a bean soup. The food was good (though cheesy Italian is not my favorite).
We needed to be home for a 4 PM appointment with President Mehr. We were all kind of monitoring the distance and estimated time. We got in some construction delays.
We called President Mehr and they came about 4:40 PM. The purpose of the visit was for the Mehrs to check out and receive the 20 or so books that I ordered for him (and an equal number for the Church History Department). It was fun to give him each book – with a brief explanation of what each was. We all enjoyed a fun visit with Pres. and Sister Mehr.
After the Mehrs left, we all walked over to the Joseph Smith properties. We showed the family the Nauvoo House (as created by Emma and Lewis Bidamon – not as the Lord planned it to be).
We talked of the burial grounds of Joseph, the emigrant landing place near the Homestead, and the normal Homestead tour.
Above: Rusty and family at Joseph Smith’s Homestead
Above: Rusty and family with Kevin and Lou at the Nauvoo Mansion House of Joseph and Emma Smith (reminiscent of the Kevin and Lou Hunt family in the same pose while in the “City of Joseph” pageant cast (Circa 1996-7)
We then went to the Mansion House.
Above: The Kevin and Lou Hunt Family at the Mansion House 1996-1997. Rusty is in green toward left end
We saw a family from Draper, Utah – the Wendtke family (dad, mom and recently returned missionary son) wandering around the Homestead. We invited them to join us for our family tour of the Mansion and they gratefully joined us. This made for a fun tour group.
We then took the other folks along with Rusty and family- and went to Joseph’s Red Brick Store. I felt that we gave a great tour there. This was a happy/sad occasion since it meant that this was our final tour of this – my favorite Nauvoo tour.
We then went to the Smith Family Cemetery. We had a quiet visit there.
FINAL PACKING FOR THE TRIP HOME
Lou and I continued to pack away some of our items. I packed my ties and bolo ties. Lou brought me a small suitcase and I packed all of my costume hats into this. This should protect them more than if I had them loose or in a plastic bag. Lou packed anything and everything into big vacuum-packed bags. It is a good thing that the sink was attached to the wall or it might have been packed!
Lou selected costume dresses for the rest of the week and I matched the outfits. We then separated all of the rest of the items for packing away in vacuum packs.
We emptied the small clothes rack that has held our costume clothes. We collected more items to be taken to the sewing room and to the missionary D.I. Later we made a trip to these places and got rid of a lot of items. We also returned a fan and a heater both to the FM offices. It was nice to see several items depart the place. Each such departure helps our own departure seem to come together more. We need the piles of stuff to diminish. We made a bit of progress.
We went to the Cultural Hall. There were no other missionaries there so we got to take our own tour. We invited a young family to join us. We found out that the guy’s is Troy Lunt. As we talked I realized that I used to work with his father, Larry – the veterinarian. I worked for them for several months. He thought that this was all very interesting.
On Friday, October 10th, our morning began at the print shop. The kids enjoyed getting dressed up in the printer outfits. Of course this was a good photo op.
We then went to the Taylor home. Fabriza was touched by the quote at the end- John’s testimony (written on the 10-year anniversary of the martyrdom) about Joseph Smith … and as I said, “One prophet testifying of another” at the end.
We also went to the post office. People always are amazed at the “crossing and recrossing your lines” – wherein one writes in one direction and then turns the page to write in the 90 degree page.
From the post office we went to the Temple. We had gone on the tours wearing Sunday clothes. Rusty baptized the two kids. Fabriza (in white clothes) was a witness. (Sienna witnessed for Lucas.) Lou and I were in Sunday clothes and witnesses from the opposite side of the font. Rusty then confirmed the two kids. We had a beautiful experience there. The spirit was strong. And it was wonderful to be there in that gorgeous Temple.
We went home to change into our costumes. We went to the Sarah Granger Kimball. I love this tour and the story of Sarah wanting to “donate” her son for the Temple construction.
We went to the brick yard and showed them the full process. It looks as if bricks are again being created. There was a hiatus while the electric kiln was removed and the gas kiln installed. Not sure if the gas connection is there yet.
We ended the day with activities at the Family Living Center – where they demonstrate craft and vocation skills that Elder Belcher began in the Coolidge House. Lou demonstrated the Belcher brick making and candle making. I taught them barrel and rope making, as well as bread making to Rusty (as Fabriza did something else).
We went home exhausted after the long and busy day.
Rusty took all of us to the Hotel Nauvoo to eat the salad and entrée buffet. Interesting that we had wanted all of our mission time to eat there – and then here we ate there twice within a week. The food was so-so, but the atmosphere made the dinner worth it. Jackie’s long-time friend, Tonia Smith came and visited with us. Lou later sent the photo to Jackie. (Hotel Nauvoo twice within as many weeks. Wow!)
The next day, We began the day with a self-guided trek down the Trail of Hope. We missed the Nauvoo Performing Missionaries and their wonderful little vignettes. (They all went home a few days before.) We took turns with all of us reading the various plaques. The plaques are from real people who made the pioneer exodus down Parley Street to go west. The experience was impactful to Rusty and family. It was a good experience for all of us.
Lucas has been wanting to play or whatever at the Mississippi River and he had fun there for a few minutes.
We then drove to Carthage to visit and experience the Carthage Jail where Joseph and Hyrum were killed. Young sisters presented the tour for us and they did a great job. All of the family members later said that this was their favorite and most spiritual tour.
On the way home we made a quick pass through the Camp Nauvoo where our family stayed when we were in the Nauvoo “City of Joseph Pageant” in 1996 and 1997. This brought back fun memories for Rusty, Lou and me.
We then went to eat at the Red Front Café. We saw Sister Morgan Squires, the owner. She was surprised and sad to learn that we will be leaving Nauvoo for home on Monday. We took some photos with her
.
Above: Morgan Squires of Red Front Cafe with Elder and Silster Hunt
We asked Fabriza if there was anything else that she wanted to see before their departure. I was surprised at her answer. She said that she wanted me to demonstrate bread making for her at the Family Living Center.
We then went to the Temple City tour. We showed them all three homes and the stone cutting pavilion. Lucas liked sawing the limestone. We went to the Temple Quarry located at the NORTH end of Main Street.
IT’S REALLY OVER! SO SAD!
We had an hour to spare before we needed to be home for dinner and departure to the airport. We had told Rusty and family that we had literally been to every one of the restored homes and shops. Wow! It has been a real effort but we did it. I asked the family what they wanted to do in the final hour. Fabriza wanted to return to the FLC for the break making demo. I nhad presented this earlier Rusty and Sienna.
Above: Elder Hunt demonstrating bread making to Fabriza
Sister Ramona Jones was there at this place. She surprised us by inviting us to dinner at their place tomorrow night. This was great. It was surprising since we really do not know these folks.
Our final tour was at the Wilford Woodruff home. We had four other people join us there for our tour. The tour went well. It was very sad as I realized that this was to be our final tour of our whole mission. I mentioned this to the family and they got out of the car to get a final tour photo with us. So sad … I can’t believe that the mission is really over.
Above: Elder and Sister Hunt took Rusty and family on a tour of the Wilford Woodruff home. Sadly, this was the very last – the final tour of our now completed mission.
We then headed off for the town of Moline and the Quad Cities Airport. I drove half of the way and let Rusty drive the rest. I was able to nap for a bit – getting strength and vitality to make the drive home. At the airport, we bit adieu to the family. We have all enjoyed our Nauvoo time together.
IT REALLY IS TIME TO HEAD HOME
We were in such a whirlwind of activity the last month that we hardly had time to catch our breath. We literally didn’t even have time to really think about our pending departure. But sadly, all good things must end. And such it was with us.
Eighteen months we had been in Nauvoo, and now it was time for us to depart.
I will plan to write a couple more final blogs. In one, we will share our reflections of what we accomplished on the mission and what it meant to us. And the other will talk about our homecoming activities with the family.
There was just so much happening over the summer … so many good times, miracles and connections. All are worthy of honorable mention.
In Part 1, I suggested a break for my readers – , a stint of jumping jacks. Now that those are over, let’s get on with the great things of summer in Nauvoo.
CONTINUING CONNECTIONS AND MIRACLES AT JOSEPH AND EMMA’S HOMES
August began with Sister Hunt and I serving at the Joseph Smith Homestead and Mansion House.
Above: Joseph Smith’s Mansion House – Photo taken by and @by Rusty Hunt 2025
We served with four different pairs of young sister missionaries. We had fun with all of them. They are great ladies. We were in charge for the day. I called upon Sister Nelson to offer the prayer.
Above: Elder and Sister Hunt teaching in the Joseph Smith Homestead
Somehow three Dunn family relatives heard about our Dunn place. They were supposed to come this morning before our day to check out the place. They did not arrive as planned. Then I happened to meet the folks in front of the Homestead. They were a part of a tour group and their schedule was at the mercy of their bus driver. They had a few minutes to spare so I had Lou take them in our vehicle to go to our Dunn home. The folks were ecstatic over their ancestor home. We were happy to get them connected with Simeon A Dunn.
We were kind of surprised that we were not busy. And with five teams of missionaries, we seemed to have a lot of time between our next tours. The weather was gorgeous (as it was yesterday – a bit of a breeze and a nice temperature). This was very different from Monday and Tuesday when the heat index (combination of temperature and humidity) was about 110. The Index was so high then that the horses and their wagons could not even run on those days.
At the end of the day we had a handicapped boy (Terrick – age 18) on our tour. He sat on a historic chair in the Joseph Smith homestead cabin and I asked him not to sit there. This got him upset. Lou brought over two chairs (one for him and one for his mother) to sit on and this calmed him down. Lou carried the same two chairs into the 1840 room addition and this worked well for the young man.
I was surprised that at the end of the tour of the homestead, he said “Thank you” to me. He somehow survived the Mansion House. After the tour we were outside with him and his family. Lou talked to the mother and found out that the boy lost his hearing when about 14 months old. The folks faced the difficult decision of getting hearing mechanisms installed on his head. (Ironically last night we watched a movie about the same kind of scenario – so Lou was able to talk intelligently with the mom today.
This young man gave me and Lou big hugs as he was departing. He was out in the parking lot and turned to look at us. We asked his mother his name. Then Lou and I both hollered to him, said his name, and waved heartily. He heard us and waved big. This seemed to please him. He then came back to us and gave us both another couple of hugs. We enjoyed the young man and our connection with him.
SAYING GOODBYE TO THE SUMMER CAST OF PERFORMING MISSIONARIES
Saturday, August 2nd was a happy/sad day.
We were assigned to serve for the day in the post office (which means also the print shop and the John Taylor home). We remained in the Post Office and the other missionaries went to the Taylor home and the Print Shop. We agreed to switch places at 11:30 AM and 2 PM.
I went outside to watch the final parade with the Nauvoo Brass Band. The band leaves Nauvoo on this coming Tuesday. It has been great having them here. They add much excitement and energy to the total Nauvoo scene. It was a thrill today as they came down Main Street. We had no business then at the Post Office so I went over to the tree to watch and to hear the event. Lou remained at the Post Office.
Performing missionary, Elder Patterson, was the lead (as Heber C. Kimball) in the morning announcement activity at the “Singing Tree”. He did a great job and it was fun to watch him in action. As noted, he and I have become brother/friends. It seems as if we have known each other forever. I noted too, that he was to go home just a couple of days later. The “summer cast” finished their performances and service. I wished him the best in his new endeavors. He told me that he appreciated my “spirit” here in Nauvoo.
At the event, they staged The Star Spangled Banner and then had prayer. Then all of the performers broke into “An Old Fashioned Day in Nauvoo”. This song generates a lot of energy and is a lot of fun. The phrase itself is loaded with so much fun and energy.
A Scott Walters came in. He had read the November 19, 2024 “Church News” article about the three Hunt cousins in Nauvoo. He had not met “my teamster cousins”. He said that his mother is a Hunt.
We thought that we were probably also 4th cousins. We did “Relatives Around Me” and found that we are actually 3rd cousins – both descending from the same 2nd Great Grandfather, Elias Hunt. We both thought this great – and appreciated the family connection. He was very interested in the story of my brother, Dean. He had heard of him – even though he was somewhat younger. He remembered Dean’s leadership award given at Westwood High School and he has wondered if they were cousins. He also things that his brother knew my brother, Ray, in young adults. This Scott and family lived in Salem, Utah. I told him that I had 3 missionary companions from there – Elders Boyer, Hatch and Tanner.
A FULL MISSION PHOTO
With the pending departure of the Nauvoo Brass Band and the summer cast of the Nauvoo Performing Missionaries, we needed to capture a historic moment.
The day was Sunday, August 3rd. After our church meetings in the morning, we went to the steps of the Nauvoo Temple. We joined 300 or so of the missionaries of the mission for a full-mission photo. We did a re-run of the photo from last year. Elder Mills – who has been home fighting cancer – was back again and he and Elder Harford worked together to stage the photo.
Above: Elders Mills and Harford atop a RV to take mission photo
Two sets of young sister missionaries rushed into the photo at the last second. We all took our places and the whole process did not take long.
Above: Full Illinois Historic Sites Mission Photo taken August 3, 2025
THE DUNNS JUST KEEP ON COMING
We received a call from a guy who said that his wife is a Simeon A. Dunn descendant. He asked if they could come to see the house. We said, “We are home …. Come on over.” They did so. On their way into the place, they saw some other Dunn relatives parked outside to take a photo. So, he invited these folks to come in also. So, we had quite a Dunn crowd with us – about eleven people. Simeon would have been proud!
We gave them the usual Dunn tour and I taught them about the man Simeon. It was fun to teach them of the family. They all signed the family book. It was fun to have the folks here.
AUGUST 4TH – MONDAY
August 4th, found Sister Hunt and me serving at Joseph’s Red Brick Store. We served with Elder and Sister Shane Summers (Ricks College roommate of Brad Belcher years ago.) We also had two young sister couples there with us.
Above: Elder Shayne and Sister Kimberly Summers
We were at the top of the list so we had the first tour. This was after 10:00 AM. We had two families – with 11 people. A young boy on the tour got intrigued with keys. I showed him the very big key that goes to the front door and let him open the door a couple of times.. He loved this.
President and Sister Mehr came by Joseph’s Red Brick Store on the surrey buggy. With them were President and Sister Workman. It is sad to see these folks go home. We have enjoyed our association with them.
YOUNG SISTERS RECEIVE NEW MISSION CALLS
That same night, we enjoyed a fun activity. This was the night in which the young sister missionaries received their new mission calls – to go serve “outbound” for the next six months. We gathered with many other senior missionaries at the Seventies Hall to join the excitement. Lou didn’t want to stand outside – for fear of bugs bugging her. We therefore sat in the car and watched the building doors – awaiting the grand exit of the sister missionaries. We heard many screams as the ladies inside found out where they have been called to serve.
The mission presidency members met individually with the sisters (about ten per each presidency member) and handed the girls their new mission calls. Then all of the ladies gathered to the main hall where they learned where the others were to serve. We heard much excitement through the screams, clapping, and whooping! When they were done with all of this, they made their exit outside.
We mingled with the ladies as they came out. We really only talked to about four of them. One is going to North Carolina, another to Minnesota, and one to St. Louis. Sister Avery is going to Ft. Collins, the place of my birth. The ladies were all excited and happy. It was a great scene.
ONGOING BRICK YARD CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES
Speaking of Elder Rieske – and the brickyard …. An FM (Facilities Maintenance) Elder Lowe has been working diligently to get the brick kiln repaired. The coils have had major problems. He got to the point yesterday that he loaded the kiln with 400 bricks (mostly custom bricks made by the Nauvoo Performing Missionaries) and cranked the heat to increase over many hours. Elder Rieske went over there this morning and the system looked good. The heat had risen to 1,900 degrees without getting a short in the electrical system. This was good news. The old kiln has not worked for about six weeks. A new gas kiln has been ordered but no one has a clue as to if or when it will arrive.
Above: Elder Robert Lowe and employee Aaron Garrison work on the old brick kiln
IN SEARCH OF STILL MORE HISTORIC SITES
I wanted to go to Montrose (directly across the Mississippi River from Nauvoo) in search of the Sugar Creek Camp. This was the first campground of the Saints after they crossed the river. I had found the place once before – but we came from the west and I wanted to locate it from the east – from Montrose. I had found directions on the Ensign Peak Foundation Website (by photographer Kenneth Mays) before this trip – so it was easily found on the J6 highway – west of Highway 218. I again took some beautiful photos of the place.
I also located on-line a physical address for a Zarahemla Temple that was supposedly to be built by the Saints in Montrose. I have not found any reference to this Temple in Church history. The only place that I have seen it referenced is in a letter written by my 3rd Great Grandfather, Nathan Calhoun Cheney – to his wife’s non-LDS family members back east. But the thought has always intrigued me so the Historian in me made me go check out the site
Above: Possible “Zarahemla Temple Site” located in Montrose, Iowa
Above: Niew of Nauvoo across the river from possible Zarahemla Temple Site at Montrose, Iowa
I was anxious to check out this site. so we went to the Montrose site – located right at the river’s edge. There was absolutely nothing on the site except a healthy patch of grass. I was disappointed, but at least I can say that I saw the site located at the address of 2504 280th Street in Montrose
We then headed toward Keokuk. I also wanted to see the 1830’s Galland School (built by Isaac Galland – who sold much Iowa property to Joseph Smith and the Church). We took a wrong road and found ourselves in a major construction site. A guy came and chased us out of the place. We did find the school. It was a cool place – just a one-room log school that was 12×16’ in size. (Google said that the original school was torn down but a restoration was later contructed. Still cool!)
Above: The Galland School in Montrose, Iowa
Above: The Galland School plaque notes that this was the first school built in Iowa.
ONE MORE CHURCH HISTORY TOUR WITH THE YOUNG SISTERS
I have noted previously the trips with the young sisters to nearby church historic sites. August came and there was one more trip to be taken. This was a “local” day trip to sites surrounding Nauvoo. We arose August 7th and prepared to go with the Young Sister missionaries on the last of the Church History Immersion trips. We got to the Visitors’ Center parking lot about 8:15 AM. It was raining upon arrival so we met inside for our devotional and opening prayer. Then we were off. We got into four different vehicles – three of the giant vans and one mini-van. Sister Hunt had again made a plethora of her famous cinnamon rolls and other goodies for each of the vans and their occupants. Yum!
Our plan of the day was to go to Quincy and to Montrose. We traveled in the rain – first to the town of Ramus. President Mehr had never heard of the Perkins family involvement in Ramus – nor the plaque about the family (Lou’s 4th great grandparents).
Above: Drawing of Ute Perkins
I led the group to the plaque and then read it to them.
Above: Ute Perkins family family plaque located in Ramus (Now Webster), Illinois
Above: Sister Lou Hunt at the Ramus/Webster grave of Ute and Sarah Perkins – her 5th great grandparents
We went to the cemetery and the folks found the grave of the sister of Joseph Smith (Catherine). I showed the folks our Perkins family graves
We also went to see the very odd door at the old church.
Above photo: The odd door that presently stands on the foundation and cornerstones of the original Ramus Church – the first LDS Church constructed in Illinois.
We then travelled to the town of Quincy. We went first to the Mississippi River. We used the restrooms and then viewed the rock plaque there. This is kind of a non-descript monument – on a rock that is about three feet tall. There were also many good places for photos. We went to the program on May 10th and a new plaque was unveiled. We noted today that the new plaque has not been placed yet.
Above: Young Sister Missionaries at the Quincy Mormon Crossing site
We then went together to eat at Cane’s chicken. Most of the YSM’s love Cane’s. I was surprised that some of the couples had never eaten there. We sat out on the front porch outside and this was pleasant. The rain had stopped and the weather was quite pleasant.
Above: Newcomb-Stillwell Mansion in Quincy, Illinois
We then went to the Newcomb-Stillwell Mansion home. This is not a church site, but it was super fascinating. This home has 20,000 square feet. It is truly magnificent with ornate and wonderful wood throughout.
Above: Ornate woodwork throughout the Newcomb-Stillman Home in Quincy, Illinois
It was built by the Newcomb family about the year 1900 and then passed to his Stillwell daughter. We had a volunteer guide who took us throughout the place and told us good stories and history. I loved the place. Amazing and spectacular. And it was good for all of us site missionaries to experience a site tour given by some other entity.
We then got on the freeway and drove north to Montrose. We went first to the Sugar Creek Camp. I was glad that I had gone there the day before because I could lead the group there with confidence. I was able to show them where the Saints camped in 1846 after departing Nauvoo. We got a group photo on the bridge – while some cars sped by us.
We needed restrooms and had a challenge with just the Casey’s store/station in Montrose. We went to the river and the young sisters enjoyed walking out on the floating docks (which reminded me of some of our former Scout camps and docks at the waterfront or lake). I shared info about the Montrose barracks and the signs with the group.
We met an LDS guy named Lance Gardner there. He was trying to find the right location to place two new plaques on behalf of the National Park Service and the Mormon Trails Association. (And I was pleased a couple of months later to receive photos of the new signage. Nice!)
Above: Two new Iowa Trail and Mormon Trail route signs – placed at Montrose Crossing on the Mississippi River – Placed October 2025. Photos courtesy of Brad Klodt, Chairman of the Iowa Mormon Trails Association
We drove on the Mississippi River Road back to Keokuk. I shared with my car folks more information about a couple more historic spots along the way (the Galland School, the Keokuk statue, and the plaque at the “Triangle Park”. We got back to Nauvoo about 4:30 PM – just as projected.
The following Sunday evening, we went to a special event. Young Sisters Nelson and Duncombe (sister assistants to President Mehr) organized a wonderful slide presentation. And each of the young sisters shared feelings and testimonials of their recent Church History Immersion trip. Each of the sisters presented their slide of the show and some added some additional feelings.
Lou and I enjoyed the presentation. It was cool that she and I took all of the slides used in the presentation.
IN THE BEST OF THE POLYNESIAN TRADITION
My journal states taht Friday August 8th became a great night for a mission activity. The journal states: “I arose that morning at the usual time. I went to the kitchen to bake. I stirred up and baked a chocolate sheet cake and then a blonde sheet cake. These were for the mission luau dinner later that evening. I did the chocolate fine but then forgot to put the blonde version into the oven. This left me just enough time to get it baked before we needed to depart.
We were assigned to serve today at the Temple City tours. We reported for duty. We labored with Sister Wagner and Sister Tammy Hunt as well as a set of young sister missionaries. Elder Wilson (going home soon) came to orient us on how to introduce the Nauvoo Performing Missionaries for their vignette. (The Fall Cast was still in Nauvoo until about the 6th of October.)
We waited for the Nauvoo Performing Missionaries and thought that they were to come at 10 AM. That time came and went. They arrived about 10:40 AM. They had never performed the show before so this was a “dress rehearsal”. Actually, they just got handed the scripts a few minutes before their performance and had to read the lines. Elder Moody was in the role of William Weeks and he was impressive. All of the team did quite well – under the circumstances.
The NPM’s performed twice and each time, I greeted the group and introduced William Weeks. He was later joined by his “wife” (Caroline), Eliza R. Snow and Parley P. Pratt characters.
After our tours of the day, Sister Hunt and I went home and both got into matching Hawaiian outfits that we had ordered previously. The shirts were red with blue flowers. We looked great together. We were one of just three couples who were in look-alike outfits. One couple was Elder and Sister Jones. I didn’t know the other couple.
Above: A sampling of photos from the Missionary Luau held August 8
This was a “hello-farewell dinner”. The theme was Hawaiian Luau. Sister Debi Wilson (who went home a month or so later) was in charge of the event – as the mission activities chair. She really did a great job at activity planning.
Above: Elder Mitch Atkinson, often the meat cooker
Elder and Sister Atkinson were in charge of the meat cooking. They also did a good job. They cooked pork and served it with rice. Other missionaries were invited to bring veggie or fruit plates – or desserts. We took our two cakes that I made this morning – and came back with about half of each kind.
A great program was staged. The Young Sister Missionaries – led by Sister Langi – did a great dance routine. They were really wonderful. And the ladies all looked beautiful. It was fun to watch them in their act. Elder and Sister Williams (released recently – but back for her to do an internship) sang and played the ukulele. Elder Hopkinson sang a Hawaiian song. The YSM’s then did another dance number. Then the Senior Sisters did a dance number. They were really great. Lou was a part of this act and she did very well. She wore a “lava-lava” that she had purchased for the occasion.
Lou and I both took many photos of the various events and participants.
Elder Atkinson then took the microphone. He recognized new missionaries who have arrived to the mission in the past two months (since our last such event). He introduced six or eight new senior couples as well as many new Young Sister Missionaries. He then read the names of YSM’s who will leave in the next six weeks for their “outbound” missions. He read the names of many YSM’s who will be going home within the next six weeks. He then introduced six or eight senior couples who will depart in the next six weeks. We have many friends in this group. I noted in my journal that “It will be sad to see them go – but we will go ourselves soon after these depart.”
After the gathering, Elder Craig Sanders came to me. He and his wife have been serving in the Carthage Jail. He wanted to know some history (structurally) of the place. I showed him many photos that I took when I served in Nauvoo (and visited the Carthage Jail) 50 years ago. The place looks the same now as it did when I was here before.
A WELCOME GREETING FROM ONE OF OUR YOUNG GUESTS
On Tuesday, Augst 12th, Sister Hunt and I were privileged to work again at the Nauvoo Historic Visitors’ Center. On our way to the Center, we met the wagon teamsters and horses coming toward us – on their way to their wagon depot (behind the Cultural Hall and Scovil Bakery). We could see that they had passengers going along with them for “the ride”. I looked into the wagon and young Henry – about ten years old popped up. He yelled to me, “Hi, Elder Hunt!” I hollered back to him, “Hi, Henry!” He was on our tour a couple of days ago at the Homestead. He asked me a lot of questions and I had fun with him then. We also had them the next day at Joseph’s Red Brick Store. I enjoyed the moment. Henry made my day!
CHANGES A COMING AT THE VISITORS’ CENTER (AND MORE FUN CONNECTIONS)
I took on a task at the Visitors Center. I went around everywhere to take photos of all of the displays. We have learned that the visitors’ center as we know it today is going to be dismantled in October. All of the current displays are going to be removed and revitalized in preparation for future placement in the new “Temple Visitors’ Center” that is currently under construction. I wanted to take the photos before the displays all disappear.
Above: Nauvoo Visitors’ Center 2025 before remodeling began.
Above: Young Elder Kevin Hunt manning the desk at the now Historic Visitors’ Center in 1975
I also “dug up” some of the old photos of me and the visitors’ center in 1975. I e-mailed all of these photos to myself so that I can create a master file of all of the photos.
I helped a couple of ladies. One was handicapped severely. The older lady was the mother and the wheelchair girl was the daughter. The ladies are not members of the church but the mother has done data entry of family history material on the church’s FamilySearch site. I learned that the younger girl (through her father) has Alger family heritage. The lady was surprised to learn that I also have Alger heritage. Our common ancestor is Samuel Alger.
Above: Samuel Alger (born in 1776)
We talked family history for quite a while – and then I suggested that they also go up to the FamilySearch center for more detailed help.
We had a fun experience. We welcomed two couples. One couple was American and they had a grown daughter with them. We could not tell if she was married to the guy with them who is from Perth, Australia. The Aussie was Paul Mortley. Upon hearing that this Paul was from Perth, I pulled Lou into the conversation, knowing that the son of Ian and Inga Oates is from Perth. Paul said that Marcus and family live in his ward. This was amazing for all of us. Lou took a photo and sent it on to Ian via a text. We had fun visiting with the folks.
Above: Elder and Sister Hunt at Nauvoo Visitors’ Center with Aussie Paul (2nd from left)
I then helped a couple named Magnusson (Swedish) and their returned missionary son. They were from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. The young man went on a mission to El Paso, Texas. I helped them at the Land and Records desk and they were excited and grateful.
I then helped another family – couple to learn how to find their Nauvoo relatives. This guy was Kyle Hoisington. We did “Relatives Around Me” also. We were 9th cousins (like everyone in the world.) Meeting and helping this guy was a bit unusual. It was one of those truly wonderful situations where I felt that I had known this guy forever. We were instant brothers and I found him to be a very great man. This was in keeping with the words of President Mehr. Every time that he talks, he tells us that we were pre-ordained to come here to serve in Nauvoo at this time. At the end of the conversation, Kyle and I broke into a great hug. I was grateful for this special association – here in modern earth time.
MY REPUTATION FOLLOWS ME
It was August 13th. Sister Hunt and I went across the street in the evening to the place where Elder and Sister Pearce live. I guess he cannot do stairs and wanted to live in a new place. FM assigned him to one of the four homes located across the street south from the Visitors’ Center. There were many missionaries there and we formed a human chain getting stuff out of the old place and into the new one. So the job was quickly done. We have lost three of our neighbors in the past month or so – the Sanders (who went to Carthage), the Workmans (who went home) and now the Pearces (who moved today).
I got a chuckle out of one scene as we were moving. I pulled together a group of the movers – for a photo – in my role as Historian of the mission. Elder Atkinson said, “You folks probably don’t know who you are dealing with here. Elder Hunt REALLY is a historian. He told Elder Ward, “We were in the same mission, you talked at a district meeting in Alabama, and you showed him a photo to prove it.” Everyone laughed. He said, “That is such a great story!”
WRITING ON “THE LORD’S ERRAND”
I have thought recently how I believe that I am on the Lord’s errand with my writing and publishing. I had this thought while in the Temple recently. And Elder White said this (essentially) in a recent Priesthood blessing that he gave to me. I very much feel that I am writing for Him. This thought inspires me and keeps me moving forward even though the task seems so overwhelming at present. I do not know how the material will be used or marketed, but I am working accomplish the work.
Lou and I went to serve today at the Post Office. We were the lead and there were two sets of young sister missionaries with us.
We hosted a couple from Cortez, Colorado. They were white but had three black children. Their name was Smith. Their black daughter says that she is the “blacksmith” (har, har!). (I later shared this with Elder Jones and he got a big laugh out of this.) This family from Cortez know our long-ago friends, Andy and Cherie Brock – who were our friends in Santa Paula, California 40 years ago. After the tour we took photos for them to send to Andy. The folks are also related to Eric Farabee formerly from Maricopa – and a friend to Rusty (and me).
PLANNING FOR FUTURE FAMILY EVENTS
There was discussion with the family at home relative to a post-mission gathering with the gang after our arrival home. We talked of options – the weekend after we get home (which is Stake Conference) and the next weekend. They determined that the weekend ten days from our home arrival would be the best. I wrote a text to our Bishop Scoresby asking if we might have a homecoming talk on October 26th. I don’t think that he knows that we have been serving on a mission.
A REAL NAUVOO MIRACLE
Kaylea wrote saying that they had received a text from a seminary teacher, Brother Caspar, in Lehi and that he had met us on a Nauvoo tour. I had given him Brodey’s contact information – with the hope that he get Brodey signed up for Seminary. She said that they were to have an appointment with him tonight. This was so exciting! Another Nauvoo miracle!
A few weeks ago, we had on our tour, this Brother Caspar – who is a seminary teacher in Lehi, Utah – near where Kaylea and JD live. I gave him information about our Brodey and how he ought to be enrolled. This guy went (on God’s errand) and visited with the family. Brother Caspar called that next night and reported back. He said that Brodey had attended seminary the next day and that “he loved it”. This is so exciting. Brother Casey said that he knows that our meeting in Nauvoo was not “by chance”. This connection should be a great thing for Brodey – in gospel learning, finding some friends, and for mission preparation. I am grateful for this special blessing. (Brodey and his family lived for a couple of years ago in a very remote place in Texas and Seminary participation was not feasible there.)
WE ALWAYS WELCOMED OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVE IN THE BRICK YARD
Although it was a Saturday on August 16th, Sister Hunt and I served the day at the Brick Yard. Of course we were pleased to do so – since when we are there, we feel that we are keeping alive the legacy of her father, Elder Belcher, the Nauvoo Brickmaker.
Above: Sister Lou Hunt serving at the Nauvoo Brick Yard
We served with young sisters Avery and Babcock. They seemed happy to be there. Sister Avery had not been there before. I first put the sisters to work “hacking” (turning) the bricks made yesterday. The ladies were pretty fast in their stamping of new bricks.
Lou helped me get the chemistry right – combination of clay, sand and water – to make another batch of pugs. There was only one pug tub pre-made as we arrived and the ladies went through this fast.
I worked to create more pugs. Upon arrival we mixed the stuff in the pug machine to get it ready to make pugs. I quickly emptied the machine, however. I was able to only create one new tub. The ladies went through these by noon.
About 10:15 AM we loaded the mixer with more clay, sand and water (a double batch). We ran out of pugs so the young ladies left soon after noon. Sister Babcock was anxious to go to the FamilySearch center to work on her family projects.
With the batch of mix that we created, we were able to get three more tubs full of pugs. The material extruded in good fashion with little constipation. Then at 1:45 PM, we mixed a new double batch. We were supposed to go back at 3:45 PM to shut it off. Lou set her alarm for us to return. Not sure what happened with that …
Anyway, as I was typing this entry at 9:30 PM, it hit me that we had not gone over as planned. I called Elder Rieske and he had trusted us and had not returned to the place after we were there. I called Simosi the weekend night security guard and he met us over at the Brickyard. He disarmed the alarm and let us in. The machine ran six extra hours beyond what it should have. We were in a panic over what might have happened. The machine was super hot but seemed to be okay.
While we were at the brick yard earlier in the day, we were visited by Elder Robert Lowe. He has kind of adopted the kiln. He has spent several Saturdays (his pe-days) trying to get the broken kiln operating again. It has been out of commission for about six weeks – after the elements all crumbled. He has repaired the current kiln (as a band-aid until the new gas kiln arrives). He has fired one kiln load successfully. He came in today to fill the kiln for firing. He decided that he should bring in some under-fired bricks from the storeroom. He wants to refire them to get them a deeper red color (which happens when the bricks are fired to about 2,200 degrees. I helped him transport some of the tubs of bricks and then to put the bricks into the kiln. We put about 600 bricks in the kiln.
Above: Elders Kevin Hunt, Bruce Rieske, Aaron Garrison, Elder Robert Lowe, Sister Lou Hunt
I enjoyed visiting with this Elder Lowe. We seemed to have a lot in common. First, we determined that we both went to the same Florida-Tallahassee Mission. He finished his mission the month before I got there to serve. We both served under President Spencer H. Osborn and we both served stints in the office. We both served in Tallahassee and Birmingham. We both knew the patriarch in the Tallahassee stake. He told me of a miracle healing experience of the patriarch. He was dying in the hospital but Elder Spencer W. Kimball – who was reorganizing the stake – felt that he was the man and went to the hospital and issued the call to him. And he was miraculously healed and became the patriarch.
Elder Lowe said that he would really like to visit with Elder Belcher about bricks making. We told him the story shared with us by Jenae (about her Grandfather speaking to her at the Belcher cabin the weekend after the Bryson/Annie wedding) and he found this quite interesting. Elder Lowe says that he has been “guided by inspiration” – to do many things that he would not have thought of – nor did he know how to do them. It seems that he has had many spiritual experiences like that here in Nauvoo. Maybe Gramps was guiding him! We like to think so.
Elder Lowe learned that we had both been to camps Loll and Bartlett (in the Lake Bonneville Council). In fact, his father was the one who went to his rich neighbor named Bartlett and got him to donate the money to build the camp. He knew Jed Stringham – whom I knew and loved in camp scenes. He knew Delose Conner, long-time camp director (and knew that he died recently). I read to Elder Lowe a blog article that I had written years ago about Jed and his legendary “Jed Work” for camp staff. He loved hearing this story.
Then he said that he lived for a while in the Rose Park area of North Salt Lake. I remembered that my cousin Carla and husband Bill Tippetts, lived in that area for years – as well as Richard Nash (my step-father). He knew all of these folks. Wow!
Lou again has been cleaning every nook and corner of the house. (She still has a few corners to go …). She came up with several bags of stuff that she wanted to part with. It was stacked in our living room. I suggested that we take it that night to the missionary D.I. We made a trip over there and Lou got the stuff organized and on hangers.
The next night we talked with Elder and Sister Lowe after our sacrament meeting. She told us how much he enjoyed his time with us yesterday. She also said, “He thinks you guys are the coolest couple”. It sounded as if he went home and told her our every conversation from yesterday. She wished that he had called her to come share the stories with her and us.
We talked to Elder and Sister Lowe again a few days later. We love these folks. He is really into the brickyard thing. Lou was telling him about some of the bricks that Elder Belcher created. They came over to our place and we had a fun visit with them. He had never heard of the Isaac Hill (I Hill) imprint. He was in absolute awe of my I Hill brick. He said, “Does the Church History Department know that you have this?” (Shhh … don’t tell!)
MORE HOMECOMING PLANS
Lou and I spent some time planning a family reunion gathering for after we arrive back at home in October. We decided that we want kind of fireside event for the grandchildren. And we got the idea to have our annual “spooky dinner” (in honor of my birthday – at the same time.
We received a surprise note from our Bishop Scoresby of our Pacana Park Ward. He confirmed that we can give a mission homecoming talk on the 26th of October. We were pleased that he wrote back. Wow!
I also created a flier about the reunion and homecoming activity that we want to have with the family when we get home. We decided to expand our homecoming activities to also include our annual “Spooky Dinner” that Lou traditionally stages for my birthday (as a special gift). We planned a 2-day event – for October 25 and 26. This should be a lot of fun. I finished the flier and sent it off to all of the family under the guise of “Announcement #31” (taking up where I had left off a year or more ago).
ON A MISSION OF CLEANING AND DE-JUNKING
Sister Hunt and I spent much time in August cleaning and de-junking. On one occasion, I got industrious and cleaned all of the windows (or four of them) on the bottom floor of our place. I have wanted to do this for some time. I found some of the windows painted or otherwise permanently shut so I could not access the inner windows of double pane windows. I did have some positive effect on the windows. They looked nice.
Lou worked hard many nights on her cleaning and de-junking projects. She cleaned the kitchen and went through all of her cupboards. She made super progress. She made a few stacks of stuff. I knew that she would enjoy seeing it gone completely so we took it late to the missionary D.I. It was good to see the stuff depart from us. Much of it was stuff that she had earlier brought home from the same place.
A SURPRISE VISIT FROM A LONG-TIME BROTHER FRIEND
August 24th found Sister Hunt again at Joseph’s Red Brick Store. We served with two pairs of young sister missionaries. Sister Tanner was one of them. This was her final day to serve in the sites. She goes home on Wednesday. She had to leave at 2:30 PM for a mission thing but got to give one last tour. I showed Sister Tanner her half page of testimony that will appear in the final church history book. She loved the whole file. I promised to send her a .pdf file of the book later on.
We had just finished a tour and it would have been our turn for another tour. A single guy showed up. (Young sisters are not allowed to take single men on tours alone.) I put him off long enough for me to make a quick trip to the bathroom. I went over and came back. One of the young sister pairs came around the corner with their guests having just completed a tour. The guy was not in view. I heard the lady say that she is from Mesa, Arizona. I told the single guy that I would be with him in a moment. He was patient.
I went to talk to the lady from Mesa and then her husband came to view. We looked at each other and I said, “Hey, I know you!” We realized at the same time who the other was. It was Fred Slade – a friend from back in high school at Westwood High School. I said, “Fred”, and he said, “Kevin”. We then broke into a big spontaneous hug. We then had a good talk. His wife, Marty Moffat died a few years ago and he met this lady (whose husband had died). It was fun to visit with him for a few minutes. His wife’s brother and wife serve in the Temple.
Above: Fred Slade and Kevin Hunt – August 24, 2025 in Nauvoo
Meanwhile, I was worried about the guy whom I had left. Two sisters could not take him alone on a tour so I made a quick decision and asked the four of them to take him all together. The sisters loved this opportunity. And we got a report later that a couple of the sisters were drooling over the guy and flirting with him. They thought that he was “cute” (a lady’s always term).
At the end of the days, Sister Doman was still amazed at the “brotherly reunion” between Fred and me. She even twice reenacted the scene with her fellow sister missionaries. This was so funny. Sister Doman said, “That was so great! I am glad that I got to see it.”
THE VISITORS’ CENTER WORK CONTINUES
On August 26th, Sister Hunt and I went to serve today at the Visitors’ Center. We had a whole team of church historians flooding the place that day. They were on a mission to dismantle and take down the various displays in the whole center.
Above: Church Historians at Historic Nauvoo Visitors’ Center August 26, 2025
Their first task was the gigantic panoramic diagram that has been in the center of the room. The model of the Temple will come out very soon. They plan to put all of these items into the new Temple visitors’ center that is presently under construction. It is weird, however, since the completion of the place is not supposed to be for eight months or so. They want to “refurbish” the stuff that they are taking down.
Above: Church Historians from Nauvoo and Salt Lake City discuss plans for removal of the panoramic diagram at the Historic Nauvoo Visitors’ Center.
A HISTORIC AND GLORIOUS TALK WITH OUR MISSION PRESIDENT
Thursday, August 28th was kind of historic day for me. Kind of? No, it really was great!
Above: President Daniel S. Mehr II, Illinois Historic Sites Mission Leader
I was surprised to receive a phone call about 8:15 AM from President Mehr. We talked of all of my writing projects. He said that I could publish the April newsletter/history (after my earlier corrections). He said that he loves the “Synoptic Overview” (of the Young Sister Immersion trips) and said that I can publish this. I told him about the magazine format that I can print this in. He has not seen this format but I told him that I think that he will really like it.
He also loved the book version created for the Young Sister Missionaries and knew that I had included many of his quotes and other history notes that I reported or recorded on the immersion trips. He liked this. He was in awe of this file.
We talked of the book to be created for the senior missionaries and I noted that I removed the testimonies and the immersion trip organization and plans. He said, “Oh, this would be a “travel guide”? I said, “Exactly”. He said to go ahead with this.
We talked about the May/June/July newsletters and I noted that I was waiting on this back from Sister Mehr. She promised to have the edited document back by Wednesday next week.
He gave me authorization to publish all of the books on Lulu.com. He also wants me to order two copies of ALL OF MY BOOKS. One copy will be for “him” here in the mission and the other set will be to sent to Salt Lake City to the Church Historical Department. This is a very exciting development for my own books and possibly getting the eyes of many to see the books. I told President Mehr that there will be about 15 books that I will order. Amazing that I have been blessed to create this many books while here. That will be quite the Lulu order. I look forward to doing this. I want to order them in order to arrive here before we leave the mission.
He gave me “editorial authorization” to go forward with all of this! Wow! This was amazing and exciting!
He said that he was amazed at my talents. He noted that this writing comes natural to me. I told him that the writing and publishing are gifts of the Spirit to me. He also said that he has never seen anyone who gives attention to detail as I do. I can tell that he is very impressed. I am grateful for his praise but gratefully acknowledge the help of the Holy Ghost in all of these talents and abilities.
I was very jazzed about the conversation. I had gone to bed the night before quite discouraged thinking that I would never get authorization on any of the projects
SEWING, PERFORMANCE, AND FRIENDS AT THE 70’S HALL
On August 29th, a Friday, we served alone at the Seventies Hall. We had a very quiet morning. Sister Hunt brought her sewing machine. She worked to create a dress of the apricot colored fabric that Jenae gifted to her. She got a lot done – until the fire incident and that made her back off. We had an extension cord connecting the wall plug to Sister Hunt’s sewing machine and my computer.
At one point, the plug began to hiss like a big snake. Sparks began to fly. Lou acted quickly and jerked the plug out of the wall. We were grateful that we did not burn down the 70’s Hall. Wouldn’t that be a great news story? “Elder and Sister Hunt burn down the historic Nauvoo 70’s Hall!”
I spent quite a bit of time outside sweeping the walks. The grass mower had just been here and got clippings everywhere.
We were bothered by many flies as we sat at the place. I finally got the swatter and sent a few of them off to the next world. (Will flies be resurrected?)
I typed up a list of when our family members will be here. I sent this to the mission scheduler, Sister Wallentine. She does an excellent job. I am sure that the comprehensive list was a bit of a surprise to her.
I spent quite a bit of time outside sweeping the walks. The grass mower had just been here and got clippings everywhere.
The men of the Nauvoo Performing Missionaries (10 of them) came and presented a show about “The Book of Mormon”. They were excellent..
I enjoyed visiting with a young man named Logan O’Donnal. He played today the role of Brigham Young. I showed him my beard photo when I looked just like Brigham Young (28 or so years ago).
He really liked the photo (and my natural beard). Lou and I visited with some of the other young Elders.
Above: Kevin as Brigham Young with Joseph Smith
We helped usher the people into the place and took their show tickets. There was enough interest that the Elders performed twice. The 70’s Hall was completely packed the first time (about 60 people) and about 40 people in the next show.
We were surprised when Don and Alayne Favreau (long Mesa, Arizona friends) came in. They used to be in our Mesa South Stake and they were involved in everything in the stake. Then about 15 years ago they moved to the “Lehi Crossing” subdivision up in north Lehi. They have been on two missions. We sent their photo out to our family – and especially to Lana – who used to date their son, Aaron.
Above: Elder and Sister Hunt with Don and Alayne Favreau
ANOTHER GREAT PHOTO OP MOMENT
After we served that day at the Seventy’s Hall, we went home and were there just long enough to change into our yellow costume outfits.
Above and below: Elder Kevin and Sister Lou Hunt in Nauvoo
We then went to Joseph’s Red Brick Store. We gathered there with all of the “site missionaries” as well as the 70 or so young sister missionaries. It was fun to see everyone dressed in their best costumes. Everyone looked amazing. We gathered for a grand photo of the whole group. Elder and Sister Harford were the photographers. They arranged us with women on benches and their men standing behind them. The young sisters knelt or sat on the ground in front of us. It did not take long for the photo session. It was a fun activity together.
Nauvoo was inhabited by Germans and French Icarians after the Latter-day Saints left Nauvoo. Both groups were into the drinking of wine – and they planted many grape vines in the local area around Nauvoo.
And for many years, the mainstay of the Nauvoo economy was the famous Nauvoo Blue Cheese. For almost 30 years, Nauvoo was home to the Nauvoo Blue Cheese factory. This was here when I was a young missionary. Another company purchased the factor around the year 2000 and closed the Nauvoo facility. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints later purchased this property and it is becoming now a parking lot for the new Temple Visitors’ Center that is currently under construction.
When I was in Nauvoo as a young missionary in 1975, the city boasted of and hosted the annual “Wedding of the Wine and Cheese” in a full Labor-Day weekend of events. The event was highly advertised in all of the tourist magazines through much of Illinois.
My journal of that time records how busy we were then:
The next day (also Sunday August 31 that year – just as in 2025) I wrote:
THE MODERN ANNUAL NAUVOO “GRAPE FESTIVAL” AND 5K RUN
Now fifty years later, the Labor day weekend is still a big deal in Nauvoo. The cheese is gone … so things are not so cheesy but the cheer remains. Now, however, it has evolved into what they call the annual “Grape Festival” which includes a 5K run. Typically this event is held the Saturday of the Labor Day Weekend. That Saturday came early this year – even in August – since Labor Day this year was on September 1st.
The mission has long been a supporter of this great event (and all community Nauvoo events).
We left the home early and went to the Nauvoo State Park – located about two blocks east of our Simeon A. Dunn home. We walked over to the park. We found Elder and Sister Graham walking too, so we walked with them and very much enjoyed the walk with them. They are great folks.
Above: Elder Fred and Sister Christine Graham
We got to the Highway 96 just as the 5K race participants were coming down the highway toward us.
I think that all of the young sister missionaries ran or walked in the community race. President and Sister Mehr participated in the run. Many senior missionaries also participated.
Above: Mission Leaders – President and Sister Mehr made it to both the start and finish of the 5K race.
We got to the park and went to the Stevenson Ramada where the local Scout troop was serving a pancake breakfast. It was an “open well” meaning that people could donate what they wanted. We put a $20 bill in the large jar. The Scouts have this breakfast very well organized and they quickly serve the food. We ate pancakes, sausage, and grape juice. It was all excellent.
While there, I talked to the Scoutmaster. I had hopes of using the ramada that evening. He said that his troop had the place reserved all day but that they would be out of the place by 11:00 AM. He said that it would be okay to use the ramada. This made me happy. I had determined that this is where I wanted our event and there was a “monkey wrench” in that we did not know the impact of the festival of the weekend. The Scouts used the ramada for breakfast this morning and the Catholic school was to do a breakfast there tomorrow.
STAGING A DUTCH OVEN DINNER FOR OUR DISTRICT MEMBERS
Knowing that Sister Hunt and I would soon be released as District Leaders of our great Hyrum #3 – Brigham District, we decided that we would like to stage a final gathering for all of the couples of the district. Whenever I think of really special gatherings, I often think of my hobby and skill of Dutch Oven cooking. And I needed to further justify my mission purchase of yet another 14″ Dutch Oven. So we planned big gathering for the group.
After the excitement (or our excitement for the annual Nauvoo Grape Festival event) held the morning of August 30th, Sister Hunt and I went home to make preparations for the Dutch oven dinner we had planned for later in the evening. I sent a notice to the district about the location availability of the place that I had wanted. I had kind of been keeping everyone in suspense relative to the location for our dinner.
Lou made her famous rolls and they were fabulous, as usual. She also cut potatoes and carrots for stew. I cut onions and celery. She and I worked together to pack the box of things to take with us for the event.
I cleaned my Dutch oven. I packed everything into the van to take to the park.
We went over to the Stevenson Ramada at the Nauvoo State Park about 3:30 PM. Lou ran back and forth to get additional items. My first task was to get the charcoal lit and burning. I had borrowed a fire lighting “chimney” from Elder Ward. He also loaned me a couple of Dutch ovens – to go with my own 14” oven that I bought a while ago.
I got one chimney full of coals and it soon began to heat up well. I put some newspaper in the bottom of the chimney and the can quickly sucked up the fire and pulled it upward to light all of the coals. It took only about 20 – 25 minutes to get the coals white hot. I soon had enough hot coals to stack the ovens three high. In the bottom oven, I put my famous stew (using the recipe I was given by Murial – the cook at Camp Kiesel – Ogden Scout camp 40 plus years ago. She fed it to big camp crowds and it is still just as great today. The middle oven had a chocolate cake – doctored with pudding, sour cream, and chocolate chips. I topped it off with German Chocolate topping made of coconut. Way too much Yum! And the mini oven on top was given to me for Christmas by my daughter Lana and today I used it to make a 3″ cake in honor of Elder Turner’s birthday (3 days ago – when the dinner was originally to be held)..
I then put all of the ingredients for the stew into the hot pan. I put even heat top and bottom with the coals.
Elder Ballard came about this time. I gave him the ingredients to make my punch. He had brought a cooler jug and a shovel from the FM department where he works.
Elder Burr had said that he would come to help. He rode up on his bike (even with his bum leg that he hurt a while ago). There was not a whole lot for him to do but I gave him a few things to do. It was great to visit with the two men.
Above: Elder Hayes watches as Elders Burr and Ballard “lick” the cake bowl.
The food was all ready as the rest of the folks from the district arrived. The event was set to start at 6:00 PM.
President and Sister Preston were in Utah so they were not with us. All of the rest of the district were there. The gathered group included Elders and Sisters Harford, Ballard, Burr, Hayes, Turner, Parker and Sister Hunt and me.
Above: Elders and Sisters: (L to R) Hayes, Burr, Parker, Turner, Harford, Ballard and Hunt of the Nauvoo Hyrum #3 – Brigham District
The event came off well. The food cooked to perfection. The stew was excellent and the cake (which we topped with German Chocolate coconut topping) was moist and wonderful.
I invited Elder Parker to ask a blessing on the food . We sang “Happy Birthday” to Elder Turner. He and his wife seemed to like the little cake.
Lou and I provided the main dish, the cake, and the rolls. We invited others to bring salads or side dishes. We had a good variety of food. All of it was very good.
There were several picnic tables out in the grass – under large trees. The site was green and beautiful. It was the perfect setting for our group and the activity. I think that everyone loved it.
We ate together and enjoyed good conversation together. It was a beautiful event and we all had fun (I think).
We packed up the vehicle to take everything home. Then at home, I cleaned up Elder Ward’s Dutch oven. I then took his ovens and tools back to his home on Young Street.
Back at home, I cleaned my own Dutch oven. I washed all of the dishes and cleaned up the mess that we had made earlier. It was nice to get the place cleaned up.
So, the event tonight was our final function on behalf of the district. And it was a grand success. Such fun – with such a great group.
Labor Day weekend … the traditional end of summer. And thus it was for us!
i recorded also the same day: “Time is quickly passing by …”
WOW! WHAT A MISSIONARY SUMMER WE HAD IN NAUVOO!
Thanks to all of you for sticking with me. I know that this blog article was kind of long … but what should I have cut out? I hope that you all read it in installments. At least I got it all written “for the record” – for me, my family, and for others in the future. It is so fun running and doing it all on the Nauvoo trail.
Wow! It really was a remarkable, fun and memorable summer in Nauvoo. We experienced such great times with great people. We did very much enjoy the good times, the continuing miracles and ongoing special connections with special friends in Nauvoo. We were grateful that those special moments just kept on coming!
Sometimes life gets a bit crazy. And we have so much fun in the moment that we don’t have or take the take the time to record them. That is kind of what happened to me. The summer months in Nauvoo were so busy with so many good things, that it was a challenge to keep up with them. I had to choose among many good things – good, better, and best. They all seemed best so it was hard to choose.
Among the great moments, I participated with the mission presidency and young sister missionaries in many “Church History Immersion Trips”. In the role of Mission Historians, Sister Hunt and I were privileged to make many trips to various Church history sites in Missouri, Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska.
Above: Young sister missionaries in Bonaparte, Iowa on church history immersion tour.
And as a side note: Sister Hunt was very busy with each of the trips. She chose to create cinnamon rolls, a variety of cookies and goodies in general for each of these trips. And it was not just one big collection of delictables. She created a customized box (of all of the above) for each of the four or five vans that went on each trip full of missionaries – and driven by a member of the Mission Presidency. She created each box with much love … and they became legendary. And she just kept doing and making the special goodies with so much love. She was also the photographer for all of the trips. Great job, Sister Hunt!
And after the trips, we created several books about the beautiful and inspiring historic sites.
I was also engrossed in the compilation of the mission history covering many months.
Life was kind of busy for Sister Hunt and me.
We all know that there are only 24 hours in each day and in those hours – even with high prioritization, it is impossible to do every good thing. So I have just kept my eyes on the many possibilities – and with the goal to do all that I have desired – but to take them I stride as time and resources came together.
Now I get to take the time to move on to some other projects. And one of these is to blog some of those summer good times, miracles, and connections. They are just too good not to record – for me and for others.
I have previously blogged some key summer events. One article was about our Hiatus for the Bryson/Annie wedding.
Another was the blog about the Immersion trips with the Young Sister Missionaries,
And then there was an article about our connecting with our friend, Cecelia Hitch – whom Elder and Sister Belcher helped to bring into the church. But, here is more …
RECONNECTING WITH A SPECIAL FRIENDS
Our son Keith is kind of unique. I think he has only really dated two different ladies and it is interesting that both of them are named Kayla. So, the family designated them as Kayla I, and Kayla II. He ultimately married Kayla II but our family has always still loved Kayla 1. So we were pleased when Kayla I wrote to us and told us that she and her family were going to come to Nauvoo. We were thrilled as we anticipated their visit in early June.
June 2nd was the day that Kayla I and family – consisting of her man, Stan the MAN and their four beautiful daughters arrived from Yokon, Oklahoma.
Stan and Kayla came into our place and we gave them a tour – including the original downstairs limestone fireplace and steps. We visited for quite a while and enjoyed the visit. Lou and I were both very impressed with this Stan. He seems like a really great guy. He is a returned missionary, active in the church, and seemingly successful.
We gave them suggestions on what to see here in Nauvoo and they went off to do some of them.
We told Kayla that we could take them on a couple of “after hours” tours if they desired us to. They called and suggested that we meet at the Lucy Mack Smith home. We went over there and first took them on a tour of the brickyard and showed them the processes there. We then took them to the Lucy Mack Smith home and they seemed to like it. Stan was very tired, however. He had come off of a 24-hour work shift as a fireman and then drove clear to here from Oklahoma. We then took them to tour the Joseph Smith Homestead and Mansion House.
We went with them to the stage to see the “Sunset on the Mississippi” program. We liked the show better this time. (The first time we saw this year’s production was just as the new summer cast was getting started. Now with a few performances under their belts, they became really great. The group was more practiced and confident in their performance. The Avant family all loved the show.
LONG TIME FRIENDS SEEM TO POP UP EVERYWHERE
We were serving one day in the Family Living Center. As one looks toward the entry door, it is a scene full of light from the outside. And in this light, it is hard to tell who people are as they come in. They have the advantage – in that they can see us. As a new group came, we kind of squinted to see them but they saw and knew us right away. We welcomed Andy and Anita Hansen of Mesa. They are the parents of sons Jared and Jacob. We have known them well over the years. We met them as we both participated in the Mesa Easter Pageant (“Jesus the Christ” Pageant).
After the greeting niceties, Lou and Anita did “Relatives around me” and were surprised that they are 4th cousins – through the Abiah Carter line.
Lou had a unique experience. She was just ready to give a brick tour (demonstration talk) when a guy came up to her and called her “Bucket Head”. With this unusual greeting, she knew that it had to be someone who knew her very well on her mission to Australia. (That was a term that she and the missionaries coined – for whatever reason.) Anyway, this guy turned out to be Paul Peterson, who served with Lou in the same Australia district.
Lou only got time to take his photo and talk for a few seconds since her tour group was waiting.
A TRIP TO A UNIQUE ARTIST’S STUDIO AND SURROUNDING PARADISE
We met a Brother Michael Bedard at a community event meant to introduce missionaries and others to resources and opportunities in the town. At this gathering, we met Brother Bedard and learned that he has an art studio located a few miles south of town. He said that he welcomes people to his studio. We decided to take him up on his offer. As District Leaders, we arranged to take our full district to his art studio. We gathered at the parking lot of the Visitors’ Center and pooled rides. We rode with Elder and Sister Parker. The Ballards rode with the Harfords. The Burrs had been to medical appointments and met us at the road turn-off as we turned onto the gravel road. Three of our couples were unable to attend.
We were met at the studio by Michael and his wife. She told us about the main floor of the place and Michael showed us his studio downstairs. He was very spiritual in his presentations as he told us the background of many of his church history paintings. He then invited us to go outside to push and pull a handcart.
Most of us took a turn at both pushing and pulling. We went up through his beautiful property. This was such a fun activity.
STARTING OFF THE DAY WITH THE NAUVOO BRASS BAND
June 12th was a typical day in Nauvoo. It began at the Cultural Hall and the Nauvoo Brass Band made their morning band parade south to the big tree that is across from the Taylor complex where we were. We went over for the performance.
I there enjoyed visiting with Elder Patterson – one of the performing missionaries. He went on a previous mission to Jamaica and has been home from that for only about six months. I enjoyed the visit with him. He and another missionary had come a few days before as I was serving at the Pioneer Pastimes Pavilion. I got them organized to do leg wrestling – just as they were called away to their next commitment. I really did not see Elder Patterson much, but it just seemed that we had known each other as brothers forever.
SHARING MEMORIES WITH POST OFFICE GUESTS
Also that day, as Sister Hunt and I were serving in the Post Office. We had a group that included two people who were from Georgia. I told them that I serfvede on my young mission in southern Georgia. They asked me if Seth Redford was my mission president. I told them that he was int he Georgia Atlanta mission. I then told them of how wewere to send about 45 issioaries (2 zones – from Biringham and Huntsville, Alabama) who to be transferred over to the aqtlanta Mission from ourm mission.
Above: Florida Tallahassee Mission “MOPS” (Mission Office President’s Staff) back l to r: Elders Jespersen, Todd, Kevin Hunt, and Patch. Front L to R: Elder Stallings, President Spencer H. Osborn, Elder Higgins
Our mission President Spencer Osborn loved nice suits – no matter what the color. Redford was adamant that Elder coming to his ission wear only dark blue suits, ties, and socks. I was then in the mission office with President Osborn (and other office staff) when Presidents Osborn and Redford talked on the phone. President Redford said, “President Osborn, do not send me any missionaries who do nothave dark blue suits.” President oSBORN SAID, “SETH, why are you so hung u on blue? Is that the color of your eyes”
Our guests – named Peck, got a real kick out of this story. l Both of their fathers had served in stake presidencies with Redrord and they had exactly the same opinion of him as I had. At least the guy was consistent! They laughed and the brother said, “I can’t believe that we are hearing about Redford here in Nauvoo!”
I HELPED A FAMILY FIND A NAUVOO FAMILY
Later that same morning, a guy naed Jon Searcy (from Post Falls – located ear Coeur d’Alene, Idaho – near where I attended the 1973 National Scout Jamboree). I helped the family do the “My Nauvoo Relative App”.
Their son Spencer, about age 16 learned that the family descends from Isaac Hill – one of the brickmakers in Nauvoo. They had never heard of Isaac hill, Spencer’s 6th great grandfather, but I was able to share about him. (And there was no other missionary who could have told about Isaas Hill. Another miracle …!) I told them of the “I Hill” brick that I have and then invited the family to come to our place at 6:00 PM to see it. The family included his wife and three children. A great family! (Isaac put his unique I HILL imprint on every 100th brick that he created.)
The Searcy family came to our Dunn home They all loved the I Hill brick. We then took them over to the brickyard (after getting permission from the facility scheduling missionaries (per new instructions). We showed them the brick-making process and Lou gave them one of the new bricks.
As Sister Hunt went to an art class, I took the Searcy family over to see the 1790 Boston Carriage that belonged to Lucy Mack Smith. They all loved this. I guess Spencer loves cars. Anyway, they were all quite pleased with the “extra mile” things that I showed to them. They were a fun family.
NAUVOO BRICKS GOING ON AN EXTENDED MISSION
Lou’s brother, Brad, called and requested 22 of the new bricks for some event that he has going in his San Diego Mission where he and his wife are now serving. The legacy continues. I went to the brickyard and got 26 bricks. I wrote them off on the check-out form.
Back at home, Lou packed up the bricks for mailing to Brad. She tried to package them such that they will not break in transit.
A REUNION WITH OUR MTC GROUP
The thirteen couples of our MTC group has tried to have a quarterly gathering of the group. And by the calendar, that meant a June gathering – which we had on July 2nd. Elder and Sister White were not there initially but came in time for a photo. We met at the BBQ area behind the place where Elder and Sister Rieske live. I was in total awe of the new porch and steps that were built recently by Elder Preston. Wow! It was really amazing and beautiful.
The gathering was billed as a “BYOM” meat affair. That means, “bring your own meat”. We were compliant and we grilled our own burgers. Everyone brought side dishes. Lou took a fruit salad. All of the salads were excellent.
It was fun to visit with everyone. We could not believe then that we all were to have only three months left on our mission. We took a full group photo on the steps and porch and this turned out pretty cool.
A VISIT FROM OUR DAUGHTER MARINDA AND FAMILY
Senior missionaries serving in Nauvoo greatly look forward to visits from their family members. We were no exception. It was so fun to have Marinda and her man and their seven children come to visit us. We planned a full schedule of fun things to do with them as they arrived in early July.
One activity that we did with them was a walk down the Exodus trail – known today as the “Trail of Hope”. This is located on Parley Street and it is the road that the ill-prepared Saints walked as they made their way in the freezing February weather toward the icy Mississippi River and westward.
On the evening of our Hope adventure, we were first greeted by several members of the Nauvoo Brass Band. Their beautiful music set the stage for what would follow. We then proceeded down the trail. We enjoyed the Nauvoo Performing Missionaries as they presented little vignettes – some spoken, and some combined with song.
Little Rosalie and Grant both held my hand. Mike pushed Eliot and Maylee in a large wagon that they brought with them. My cousin, Brad Hunt, caught up to us and at the end, introduced us to another “cousin” who actually lives here in Nauvoo.
The next morning we were anxious to get the family down to the Cultural Hall so that they could join the band for the daily march. Then at the “singing tree”, our Call was invited by the Elder Wilson (or was it Ferrin) to be the flag bearer as the band led us in “The Star Spangled Banner”. She loved this opportunity and was so cute as she stood there smiling.
After the ceremony, some of the “kids” (young adults but kids for a 70-year old Grandpa) of the Nauvoo Band came and talked to our kids and showed them how to play their instruments. The youth pumped the air on clarinets, trumpets, etc., but let our kids play the keys. Such a fun activity for young children.
ANOTHER VISIT TO THE HORSES AND TEAMSTERS
“Cousin” Elder Brad Hunt suggested that we go again to the horse barn to see the big horses come up from the long pasture – located some distance away. We went up there and parked by the stream. Grant could not find his shoes – thinking that they must be in the family van. I felt bad for him as he walked on rough terrain without them.
The horses looked grand as they came up through the pasture. We then went for a repeat of yesterday. There were about 75 people there for the event. Several missionaries were there with their parents (for a young sister missionary), or children with grandchildren. It was a fun time. We watched as the teamsters put one horse up on a tall rack. I guess the horse had an infection its foot and it got treated by Elder King, the veterinarian.
Elders McBride and Bristol were heading with their team and wagon to the Wagon Depot – located over by the Family Living Center. They invited us to ride with them. Lou walked back to the car and then met us over at the Depot. The rest of us rode the wagon and it was a great ride in the early morning. The kids all loved the Temple as we passed below it.
We made it to the Depot and enjoyed horsing around with the Teamsters and the 4-legged missionaries a bit. We then drove the kids up and around the Temple. Grant said in awe, “This is the first time that I got to get this close to the Nauvoo Temple.”
TAKING THE FAMILY ON NAUVOO TOURS
About noon we went out and about. We first took the family to the Belcher Brickyard. They found this interesting. We walked down to the Pendleton School. Elder and Sister Summers were there and they did a good job with the teaching. We then walked down to the Riser Boot Shop. Some young sisters presented this tour and they did a great job.
We left about 6:30 PM. We all went to the Sunset by the Mississippi stage. We got to hear the band play. The kids enjoyed being called forward to join a little march through the audience. We then stayed for about 20 minutes of the Sunset performance. The kids were really into the songs, dances, and energy of the Nauvoo Performing Missionaries. We were sorry that we had to drag them away from the show.
We left so that the kids could participate in the “Country Fair”. This is such a fun event with all of the pioneer games and activities. The kids all did six or eight events and did not even scratch the surface of what was available there. They all had a really fun time.
The Pageant began at 8:30 PM. Our group had been kind of all over the scene but they managed to find me at the seats that I had reserved for the group. Toward the end of the show, Lou and I went forward to the pageant stage. We went to participate in the finale of the British Pageant. We got to see a good portion of the show and it was wonderful. We did our thing and went to the stage – as a part of about 100 missionaries – young and old. We “stood resolute” (erect and quiet) and sang three songs with the rest of the British cast. Marinda later noted how she got teary-eyed as she watched her parents standing there as missionary witnesses of the Lord Jesus Christ. We were pleased to be a part of that elite group of soldiers.
After the program, Phil, Mather, his wife, and daughters found us. They lived in our town of Maricopa for many years but a year ago they moved to Tennessee. We had known that they were to be in town today but didn’t know where we would connect. It was fun to visit with them and they were very happy that they connected with us. We have seen these folks for years at the school as we attended awards ceremonies for their children and our grandchildren.
Later that night, we visited with our kids until midnight. I recorded: “What a day! We wore out everyone but in the end, Marinda thanked us for being “good tour guides”. Score!
MARINDA AND FAMILY HAD OTHER NAUVOO CONNECTIONS
Marinda had a Snow College roommate, Tiffany who lives in Illinois. Knowing that Marinda was going to be in Nauvoo, she and her four children made the effort to come down to connect with Marinda and family. They got together as Sister Hunt and I served at the Visitors’ Center. That is where the two families found us. They had been to a few places together. They went to the Cultural Hall, the 70’s Hall, and Pioneer Pastimes.
It was funny … Marinda later said that it was really weird to go visit homes without us with them. Without us, they were just regular “guests” and did not get the attention that they got when with us. Without us, no one knew them. She missed the attention, I guess. So funny! Sorry about the demotion, Marinda!
CONNECTIONS AND SERVICE IN THE VISITORS’ CENTER
The two families came and watched the movie in the Visitors’ Center. We took a lunch break about 2:00 PM and went with Mike and Marinda. They left their kids with Tiffany in the west theater to see the Nauvoo Performing missionaries.
We first went to the stage and Mike and I (and Grant) saved fifteen seats for the later pageant. We went to the home of William Weeks. Every time that I have gone down these stairs, I have thought of Mike and him going down that steep and very tight space. I sent him down and he literally could not spread his full breadth in the space. We got some funny photos of the scene.
Lou had an interesting interaction with a couple. They wanted to go to the Temple but forgot their dress clothes to enter the Temple. She made a quick trip to our missionary DI. She got the guy some pants and a white shirt. She got two dresses for the lady and the lady found one of the two that she liked – and which fit her. Lou decided that she liked the other dress. This was a maroon dress and Lou wore it later in the day. She looked very nice in this dress.
I helped a couple on their people records. We learned that her Whiting family lived in the village of Yelrome (Morley backwards) – present day Tioga – along with our Hancock family members. I took her over to a couch and on my computer showed them photos of the place, the plaque that we witnessed (at its setting) in 1997. She found all of this very interesting. We always find these special connections to be fun and interesting. Interesting how our God pulls such connections together!
The night before at the Country Fair, I met another man who told me that he remembered me from my tour in the Mansion House last year. I had found out that he was/is a Hancock cousin and then gave him new information (new to him) about our common Hancock family. He comes through Mosiah Hancock and we come through his sister, Clarissa. He remembered our conversation from back then. Wow!
Right at 5:00 PM, Lou greeted an “older” couple. They were very anxious to see the movie. Lou felt inspired to let them in to see the movie even though we were supposed to be closing. They had come from a long distance to come to Nauvoo. As she seated them, she learned that they are not members of the Church. The guy said that he had seen the movie years ago and he wanted his wife to see it. He was delighted that he recognized it as the same movie. Lou had a lot of good conversation with them. I suggested to the man that he could get on the “Churchofjesuschrist.org” website to request that missionaries come to visit with them. He seemed agreeable to this. They had no clue that we have all of these restored homes here. He acted as if he wanted to come back again to see them.
We then all went direct to the Country Fair. The kids had a grand time last night there and wanted to do it again. Once again, they all had fun doing the various activities. We also went to the photo booth. We all dressed in costumes and had a group photo taken of us pushing and pulling the handcart. The handcart is not historically correct for Nauvoo. It came much later – but it makes for a great photo op.
The background of the photo is a city scene and the handcart is up front. We put many kids in the cart and the rest of us stood around it. This was a fun activity.
We all (with Marinda and Mike and Tiffany and kids) went to the Nauvoo Pageant. The Nauvoo pageant is staged on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. The British pageant is on Wednesday and Friday nights – for three weeks.
This show was also fabulous. I loved it. We sat with the family for most of the show. Lou held Rosalie for a while.
A SPECIAL JULY 10TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION FOR AN ELECT LADY
Sister Hunt and I served on this date at the Joseph Smith Homestead and Mansion House. We served with Elder and Sister Turner (who were in charge, along with Sister Sandy Hunt (wife of “Cousin Jake”), and several young sister missionaries.
At 10:00 Am, we went to the Smith Family Cemetery. We joined a birthday party held there for Emma Smith, wife of the Prophet Joseph Smith. The annual event was conducted by Sister Kimberly Smith – a 2nd granddaughter of Joseph and Emma Smith.
About 40 people heard that there were to be doughnuts and showed up for them. Sister Pierce led us in singing “Happy Birthday”. We were pleased to get a doughnut roll that Sister Smith and others made. (In the Mansion House, we tell our guests how Emma often (without time or resources for other options) made “fried dough with honey”. How fun that Emma made scones! (A Hunt family favorite!)
We did not stay long. It was our turn to give a tour and we got a call by Elder Turner to get back to the Homestead.
Above: Men of the Nauvoo Brass Band
On our way back, we met a long line of Nauvoo Brass Band members (the guys) coming at us in their red outfits. They made a very classy scene there together. I had them stop in their line so that I could take their photo. The ladies (most of the group) then came and I got their photo as well.
We took our first tour about 10:30 AM. This was a group of 16. One family were descendants of Levi Ward Hancock. This was super fun. Levi is a brother to my 3rd great grandmother, Clarissa Hancock Alger. It was enjoyable telling them about the desk (now in the Mansion House) that Levi made for the Prophet Joseph Smith.
Late in the afternoon, we were privileged to take Marinda and family on tours of the Smith homes. They all seemed to enjoy our tour. Later when Marinda was asking the kids what their favorite thing today was, Grant said, “Going to Joseph Smith’s Home”. We were glad that they were on our tour. This is the only tour that we have been able to present to them.
After the dinner, we went to experience the rest of the “Sunset by the Mississippi” program by the Nauvoo Performing Missionaries. We had left the show early the other night and the kids were anxious to return. The performing youth certainly stage a fun program.
After the show we took Marinda to the part of the old stage (1997) that is still visible. It was fun to remember together when we were in the pageant as a family. We re-staged a photo of the family coming over the bridge to enter the stage for our opening scene of the show.
Marinda remembered some of the show – even though she was only about five or six years old when she was in the former “City of Joseph” production. This was a fun activity.
HORSING AROUND WITH MARINDA AND FAMILY
I was surprised on July 11th that Marinda and family all wanted to go see the horse operation again. It took us a while to get there. We arrived about 8:00 am. The horses had already gone into the corral. We watched them in the barn. The kids also got to visit with two Santas – Elders White and Reed. Both have played the role many times.
After the horse activity we took the kids to the sewing room. Marinda wanted her girls to experience the place. Sister Gail Beauregard was fabulous with the kids. She showed them all through the place and also some costume combinations. The kids were thrilled with her kindness and willingness to spend time with them.
The kids decided that they wanted to make thank you notes for Sister Beauregard (who has never had children). The cards that they made were cute. We then went to her home and the kids delivered them to her. She seemed very pleased and gave each of the children hugs. (Sister Beauregard was thrilled and we later found the colored paged on the bulletin board of the Sewing Center.
CRAZY MARINDA PRAYED FOR A STORM AND HER PRAYERS WERE ANSWERED
Mike is into big pieces of machinery. He noted a giant turbine (mechanical part) that used to be a part of the Keokuk dam (from 1913 when the dam was constructed – to 2021). This was about 15 feet in diameter and it weighs 190,000 pounds (80 tons). We all went down river to check this out. It was quite interesting. We took photos and as Mike and most of the children climbed up into the turbine (and got rusty pants in the process).
I can’t imagine why, but Marinda actually had the hope of seeing a tornado while in Nauvoo. It wasn’t a tornado – but it was close to it. It appeared that Marinda might get her wish:
This was the prediction of the afternoon:
We had a tremendous rain storm on the way home from the turbine trip. It was really coming down in torrents.
Above: The storm view from our windshield
I had to slow way down and still had almost zero visibility. Lou was in rare form doing her panic mode. The rain was so heavy that the British pageant got cancelled for the night. We never received official notification but I am sure that there was no way that it could be staged with the rain. We also got a lot of lightening. Mike was really into this. He and some of the children also went out and played in the rain.
AN UNEXPECTED GUEST VISITS US AT THE POST OFFICE.
It was Saturday, August 12th and Wow! What a day!
We bid adieu this morning to Marinda and Mike and the family. It was their day to head home. We have really enjoyed our time with them. We had a lot of good times together. It is amazing how many places that we were able to experience together. We had a lot of tun. They did a drive-by at the John Taylor home where we were serving and we got another dozen hugs from Marinda. We got a few photos of the kids in the van. And then they were off. They had a long drive ahead of them. We thought that the trip would take them 3 days (but crazy Mike drove about 25 straight hours … but that would not be us!).
The band parade came down the street from the Cultural Hall – heading south to where we were serving at the John Taylor home. I love this band activity. It makes for a very picturesque scene as they pass through on Main Street. As noted, they then stop at the “singing tree” for “daily announcements” and music razz-ma-tazz.
We went outside to welcome the band. And while we were out there, we got a bit of a surprise. We were approached by two guys on bikes. They came as we were standing outside. There are a lot of bikers through Nauvoo everywhere – so it was normal to see bikers. And as we do in Nauvoo, we approached them to be friendly and welcoming. One guy had a USA t-shirt and the other a BYU T-shirt. They both had bike helmets that hid their true identity. I did not have any inkling of who they might be. They just looked like “normal Nauvoo bikers”.
The visitor in the USA shirt put out his hand and said, “Who are you?” We introduced ourselves. I then asked, “And what is your name?” I was very surprised when he said, “Ronald Rasband” – as in the apostle Elder Rasband. Wow! I said, “It is because of you that we are serving here!” He said, “You are the fourth person here who has told me that.” I told him that I had served in Nauvoo previously as a young missionary and Sister Hunt mentioned that her folks had started the brickyard 45 years ago and that her dad designed the Nauvoo brick.
One of our fellow missionaries commented on Elder Rasband’s Facebook post:
The above references the talk that Elder Rasband shared in the October 2023 General Conference talk about senior missionaries. Sister Hunt and I were inspired by that talk – and we put our missionary papers in the next week. What a blessing to know that it was the Lord who wanted us – and many other couples to serve.
We asked Elder Rasband if we could get a photo with him. He agreed but said that “It cannot be published on “social media”… this is just for your family.” True to our promise, we did not post his photo – even on this blog. A promis is a promise … especially to an Apostle. After we got our photo with him he noticed 4 young sister missionaries not too far away. He asked who they were and where they were from.
Then he said, “Let’s get a picture … I know you want one!” (and of course, they did want one). We took the photo for them. One sister pointed to Lou and me and told Elder Rasband, “The Hunts are our mission historians”. He thought that this was interesting but didn’t verbalize that.
A fun and interesting association with one of the Lord’s Apostles here in Nauvoo … another Nauvoo Miracle.
We later enjoyed a photo of Elder and Sister Rasband with their own family who were in the Nauvoo Pageant cast. A classy looking group!
Above: Elder Ronald and Sister Rasband with their family who performed in the Nauvoo Pageant. (Photo from his Facebook page)
MORE GREAT CONNECTIONS AT THE JOHN TAYLOR HOME
On this day, we had a group of seven people in two groups. It was interesting that the two groups learned through the tour association that half of the group descend from John Taylor directly – and the other half come through the Cannon side of the family. (John’s wife was Leonora Cannon). We all enjoyed the scenario. The Cannon guy was very helpful. He helped me to understand the family dynamics. I thought that Leonora was/is a sister of George Q. Cannon – but she is actually his Aunt. I was glad that this Brother set me straight.
The July 12th excitement continued as we served through the day. We had a large group of 14 people. We talked about Ebenezer Robinson as one of the publishers of the Times and Seasons publication. One couple realized that Ebenezer was his relative. I told them that he was a brother of my relative, Joseph Lee Robinson and wife, Maria Wood. We then realized that we both come through his daughter Anna Maria Robinson who married Ezra Thompson Clark. This was a great conversation. The folks were Jeff and Kristen King – currently from near Springfield, Missouri. I really enjoyed these folks.
I went to the pageant stage. I put out twine to reserve nine seats – in anticipation of James Head and family joining us.
WELCOMING MORE DUNN FAMILY RELATIVES
The Dunn family seems to be prolific: Yesterday, Sister Bonnie Reed said that they have some friends from Arizona who are descendants of Simeon A. Dunn (whose home we live in). She said that the folks were interested in coming to our place. We saw her as we made our exit from the Taylor home and she pointed to a departing car. She said, “There they are right now … they are heading to your placed to take a photo.”
We rushed home to try to beat them there. They arrived just after we did. I helped them take photos with the front Dunn home. This was a group of 11 family members.
The grandmother was a lady named Billlie Jean Pew. She is somehow related to Ralph Pew with whom I went to high school. She found this so great. She took a photo of us to send to Ralph.
We brought these people into our home. We were unsure of what we might find in our home – since we left for the day before the Roller clan departed and we didn’t know what the place might look like. We need not have worried. The Rollers left the place spotlessly clean and it was wonderful. We gave the folks our usual Dunn family tour and the people were so excited about everything that we showed to them. They were very grateful for our tour of their ancestor home. We had them all sign the Dunn book – right after I had entered my own name as a newly discovered Dunn relative.
The people happened to mention that they wanted to go where they make bricks (thinking of the old place). I brought them all back into the house and they sat on the couch and the floor and listened intently with interest. Lou told them all about the Belcher brick story. They loved all that she told them. She gave them two of the new Temple bricks. (She has maintained her own secret stash for such an occasion.)
THE EXCITEMENT STILL DID NOT END
We had a large group of 14 people. We hosted a guy and his wife. His name is Devin Bean. Dave Bean – who is married to my cousin, Natalie Atkin, is his uncle. This was interesting for both of us.
We were pleased to welcome the Tuckers (Roy and Gail) – who know our missionary granddaughter Abby who is serving in Texas on her mission. These folks were cool. We enjoyed the time with them. I guess they have not been married for too long. We learned that the man is a Baptist but he supported his wife in a visit to Nauvoo. She came here for the Temple endowment of her grandson – who plays in the Nauvoo Brass Band. Lou told this lady her family brick story and she was in absolute amazement. Lou gave her one of the new Temple bricks.
We had a couple come in and she is from The Philippines. She said that everything she is experiencing in Nauvoo has come alive because of her seminary classes when a youth. I was amazed. I guess I didn’t know that they had seminary there – but why would they not? She loved the tour.
ANOTHER FAMILY CONNECTION
The day continued with still more excitement. Lou’s grandnephew, James Head, son of her niece Melody and Rex Head – came to visit with his wife and five children.
We sat and visited with them at our home after their arrival. It was fun to connect with them. They are on a cross-country tour of church sites. And of course, James wanted to know all about his great-grandfather’s Nauvoo brick. He was delighted to hear “the rest of the story” as Lou detailed the “original” and the “new” Temple brick. Lou gave him a brick and also a “first run brick” (fired March 9th) for him to give to his mother. This made him happy.
We took all of the family over to the pageant Country Fair. Upon arrival, Lou took the wife – Sasha – and the two girls with her. She showed them many fun “girl games” to go to. I went with James and the three boys – Joseph, Kenny and Louie (?). We went to the stilts, log sawing, tug-o-war, and many more. They all loved these activities. We also went to the dress-up photo station. It was fun to see the enthusiasm for this activity. We got one photo of just their family, one with us in it, and one with just Lou and me.
Above: Rex Head and family photo
We got the family into the pageant parade and they marched into the pageant area. They had fun in the march.
As noted, I had reserved seats for the nine of us. We went along to the pageant with them. I love this pageant. It really is great. The guests loved the show.
After the show, I showed James that I had taken a plethora of photos of him and his boys as they did the events. He did not even know that I had been taking the photos. He was surprised and pleased. He figured out how to do a “cloud transfer” from my phone to his.
Wow! Could all of that have happened in just a single day? I guess it did! My journal tells all of the stories. Talk about good times, miracles, and connections!
GRANDPARENT PARTICIPATION IN GREAT FAMILY EVENTS VIA TECHNOLOGY
On Sunday, July 13th, the good times and miracles continued.as we got to witness a great event via computer technology. (You gotta love it!) About 1:45 PM (our time) we got onto a Zoom conference call. We got to witness as our son-in-law ordained our grandson to the office of Elder after conferring the Melchizedek Priesthood upon him. JD got very emotional in the prayer – perhaps remembering his participation with his father as Robert Stoddard (the grandfather patriarch) gave Jett his patriarchal blessing. We are pleased with Jett’s preparation and progress.
Late that evening we made a trek to the town of Moline, Illinois – located about a hundred miles north of Nauvoo. We were thrilled to welcome another daughter, Larissa and her two young boys as they flew into the “Quad Cities Airport”. (Her man had just started a new job and couldn’t get the time off for the trip.)
FUN TIMES WITH A DAUGHTER AND SONS
Monday, July 14th, we got an early start with Larissa and her boys. We hit the ground running and didn’t stop running until late in the evening. We went first to see the horses at 7:45 AM. The boys loved this. The horses put on quite a show. One horse “bolted” and took off – not wanting to be put in the stock or whatever it is called.
Andy was quite intrigued with Richard, the barn cat.
The Teamsters invited us to ride the wagon down to the wagon depot. Lou rode with them this time. I met them in our car near the wagon depot.
We went home for “breakfast”. They boys heard that we had corn on the cob and they really wanted to eat this for breakfast. Grandma Lou obliged them.
We went over to the Cultural Hall. We joined the band parade and marched with them down Main Street.
This is always a very fun activity. We listened to the announcements of the day. At the end, as the band played, “An Old-fashioned Day in Nauvoo”, I pulled Larissa up and we did the swing dance (is that what it was)? Boy was she shocked with the dance moves of her old dad.
We went to the Scovil bakery and heard Sister Tammy Hunt give the presentation and the kids got to have the famous ginger cookies.. Sister Tammy Hunt was a bit long-winded. At one point, little Oliver said, “Why is this taking so long?” (Kids are so honest!)
Sister Hunt told the boys about the “bustle oven” (that is like an oval oven that kind of sticks out in the back of the house. Sister Hunt asked the boys if they knew what kind of oven this was. Andy emphatically said that it is a “pizza oven”. He had seen a pizza oven at the home of his Uncle Rusty. So funny!
Andy informed Sister Hunt that his younger brother has a 4-year old brain. And in the next breath, he told her that he himself “has a 100-year old brain”. Good to know. That explains a lot.
CONNECTIONS AT JOSEPH’S RED BRICK STORE
July 15th found Sister Hunt and I serving that day at Joseph’s Red Brick Store. We served with Elder and Sister John Hale. This guy is such a very funny guy. Also there were young sister missionaries.
Sister Hunt and I were at the top of the list for tours so we hosted a family of 8 soon after 9 Am. This was a McApney (or something like that) family from Vernal, Utah. I kind of connected with their 16-year old son, Thomas. I had him stand and recite “The Standard of Truth” with gusto! He did really well. After the tour, I showed this Thomas and others of his family how to do “My Nauvoo Relative” and they were pleased to find out how to do this. The internet was not working well and we had trouble connecting. Thomas came back a while later just to tell me that the program started working and he was able to begin to find their people.
We were sitting outside when a family came up to where we were. He recognized me and told me that his name is Chris Glidewell. Wow! I was his Blazer Scout leader (when he was age 11) before he moved to another ward. He seemed very pleased to see me. We broke into a “half hug”. I told him that he was a great Scout. He said that he later earned his Eagle Scout award. I was sorry that I did not get a photo of Chris and me.
A later group of 18 people included 18 people. One guy had the name of Ripplinger. I asked him if he has known a Karl Ripplinger. He said that Karl and Alena were his great grandparents. I told him that I was their newspaper carrier when age 11 to 15. These folks used to farm in Idaho but came to Mesa (on my paper route) for the winters. This guy was totally surprised that I knew his GREAT grandpa. I also mentioned Terry Ripplinger, my assistant camp director one summer at Camp Bartlett. This turned out to be his own uncle. Another mind-blower for both of us. So funny!
Later that night we took Larissa and boys to the Nauvoo Pageant. Andy was very interested in Joseph Smith (from our tours with him at the Smith homes). And so at the pageant, he was intent on watching the Jospeh Smith character. After the show we took the boys up to stage front and introduced them to Joseph Smith. The actor was very kind and gave them some individual attention and time. Such a great guy!
RE-ENACTING PAST HISTORY AND GOOD TIMES
We later took Larissa and boys to the Women’s Garden of statues. We took a fun photo of Larissa and her boys. In 1997 our family was in the Nauvoo “City of Joseph” pageant. She posed in a scene with her mother, with her (as just a toddler) and older sister, Marinda. She restaged the scene with the roles reversed.
PORTUGEUSE BIRTHDAY WISHES FOR OUR SON
Lou and I served a few days later at the Sarah Granger Kimball home. It was fun to be there. It had been quite a while since we were there. I enjoy this tour. We got a photo of us in Sarah’s front yard – with the Temple behind us.
We really enjoyed Bruno Augusto and his wife and son and daughter. They were from Brazil and they spoke Portugeus. The parents both spoke pretty good English. We had a good time with them. When they came in, we talked to them about our son, Rusty. We told them that his birthday was that day. We called Rusty and the Brazilians sang “Happy Birthday” (or the Brazilian traditional of the song) to him in their Portugeus language. He was surprised and pleased.
We hosted a very special group later that day. This group was really great. It was 54 seminary teachers who all arrived at once on their tour bus. We could not handle that many people in the home at once so we gathered them in the shade of a large tree outside and taught them there.
We really enjoyed this experience and I think that the teachers did too. After we talked and gave the Sarah and Hiram history, we sent them inside in a long line to pass through the place. This seemed to work well.
Soon after we got home, we were visited by a Brother and Sister Peterson. They served a mission a year ago in New York City. The lady was a Dunn descendent. She was very anxious to see the family home. Andy noticed them literally just outside of our front door – taking a photo. We have not seen people at our door before. They were brave. They loved the place – as all of the relatives do. And of course they signed the family book.
CONNECTIONS CONTINUED JULY 18TH AT JOSEPH’S RED BRICK STORE
Lou and I served at Joseph’s Red Brick Store. I always enjoyed serving there. Miracles seemed to always happen there.
We were connected with several people whom we have known or whom our family has known. We med a Paul Heywood and wife of Lehi, Arizona.
They are in a ward with my brother Ray and they also knew my deceased sister, Laurie. Paul is a brother to Ross Heywood who is my age. Paul said that his brother has stage 4 prostate cancer. Not good.
It was a day for special visitors. We visited with Delwyn Allred and wife.
Delwyn is the stepfather of our son-in-law, Spencer Allred. They live in Colorado. It was fun to visit with them briefly.
ELDER BELCHER (THE MODERN VERSION) GAVE A BRICK REPORT
On July 21ST – a Monday P-day in San Diego, we received a note from Sister Hunt’s brother.
“We had our Senior Missionary Zone Conference on Saturday. Sooooo glad that’s over. We along with our Senior District Leaders, the Broughs, had to plan it. It turned out Great. I asked myself to introduce the theme, or maybe Kerry asked me to do that? Anyway, the theme was, The Majesty of This Moment! What were some of the majesty of this moment that has happened to you while you have been on your mission? This was the question that I asked. We got some great responses. Then I held up a Nauvoo Brick and asked how many of you have one of these? Almost all raised their hands. Do you know the story of how the Nauvoo Brick got started? No one knew. So I went through the Majesty of the Moments when a Senior Missionary Couple named Everette and Verna were called to serve as a site couple at the Lucy Mack Smith Home. At the end of the Old Nauvoo Brick story I said, “Why do I tell you this story? 1-Everette and Verna were my dad and mom. 2-Here is the rest of the story. Most of you know the story. If not you can go to the link below and read the book authored by my brother in law Kevin Hunt.
“I was able to tell the story of the new brick and how it points to the temple. I ended the presentation with the “Temples Will Dot The Earth” video. To top it off My sister Lou sent me enough New Nauvoo Temple Bricks to hand one out to each couple.” He reported to us later that the missionaries were then in stunned amazement.
I later wrote Elder Brad for a photo of the experience. He reported back, “Sorry, no photos. They all rushed the box so fast I got knocked down and my phone went flying.” (So much for that moment in history!)
A JOINT GAME NIGHT WITH YOUNG SISTER MISSIONARIES AND THE OLD FOLKS
On July 23RD, my journal note read:
“Lou made some cookies (last night) for us to take to a gathering tonight. This evening we went to the Visitors’ Center. A zone of young sister missionaries invited our Hyrum zone to participate with them in a game night. They needed a laptop computer for their Jeopardy game so I volunteered mine. They were able to get it set up with the theater system – and this worked well.
The Sisters had put together a great Jeopardy game – patterned after the TV game show. We chose categories and point amounts. And in each of these areas, there were questions that the two teams were to answer. Lou thought that I would know all of the answers, but I really only knew two or three of them. It was a fun game. We had a good time together. We then enjoyed cookies that the seniors had brought.”
And I note that Sister Hunt often created cookies to share with her Nauvoo friends. She made many batches of various kinds for the young sisters missionaries in each van on our immersion trips with them. She had quite a reputatiion for them! Thannks, Sister Hunt.
CELEBRATING PIONEERS WITH SOME UNEXPECTED GUESTS
July 24th … a day to celebrate the pioneers and their lives and legacy. We thought that we should dress up in Pioneer costumes for the day … Hey, I like that idea! (Actually, we get to dress and play “pioneer” every day!)
As we were ready to leave this morning, we had a surprise outside of our door. We found garbage strewn all over the yard. This stuff all came from our garbage can. The can was sealed (we thought) by the closed lid with the strap tight. It was obvious that an animal (likely a raccoon) had somehow got into the can and pulled everything out. I did not have time then to clean up the mess. I cleaned up as we got home this afternoon. It was a gross mess. Lou had cleaned out the fridge a few days ago and so there was a variety of old garbage that attracted the creature.
NAUVOO PERFORMING MISSIONARIES AT THE HOME OF ARCHITECT WEEKS
We spent Pioneer Day serving at the Temple City homes (a combined tour of the Weeks, Hunter, and Gheen homes). We played host to some special vignettes staged by the Nauvoo Performing Missionaries at the William Weeks home. They did a little mini-show about William and his wife, Caroline, and their neighbor, Eliza R. Snow.
Young Elder Spencer played the role of William Weeks and did a great job. The protocol called for a senior missionary to greet the folks who came to the show and then to make a hand motion to signify the time for Elder Spencer to come out. He came out and I shook hands with him and he and the other folks presented their show. They sang several songs that were fabulous with their excellent singing voices. I loved their music. Elder Spencer sang, “High on the Mountain Top” and the ladies (Caroline Weeks and Eliza) sang “O My Father”. They sang “The Morning Breaks”.
Then at the end of their little production, I went out and introduced the Temple City tours available to the folks. The plan was for me to take them inside and then send them on to the Hunter and Gheen homes.
In our Temple City tour we continued to talk about architect Weeks and his work with Joseph Smith in the creation of the Temple design.
Later, as the performers were down in the basement, the missionaries told me that they loved me working with them. They said that I was the best senior missionary that they have worked with. This made me feel good.
A FUN BLAST FROM MY SCOUTING PAST
I met a guy in the Temple City guest group. Somehow I learned that he is from Mesa/Gilbert and he said that his grandfather is Leon Jones. I also learned that his mother is Marie Miller – whom I knew years ago when she and I became Blazer Scout leaders about the same time in our Mesa North Stake. We also concluded that we were both on the 1973 Scout Jamboree trek – when our troop and his (and one other from Lehi) traveled together. He said that his mother Marie is age 90. I always thought that Marie was one of the classiest” ladies I have known.
Above: Danny Turley’s 1973 National Jamboree Troop
Above: Kevin Hunt (top center) with his 1973 Scout Jamboree Troop 155.
On our way to the Scout Jamboree, we stopped overnight in Richfield, Utah. We took this photo of the three Mesa troops together. So, Danny and I are probably both in the bottom right photo.
And speaking of the Jamboree, I can’t resist posting my all-time photo taken along the way. This was my Troop 155 checking out the Glen Canyon Dam (quite the dam shot!)
The Daniel Turley whom I had met earlier (the Miller son) came to our place. We shared Jamboree photos between computers. We had good conversation. We called his mother (age 92 or 93) and talked to her for a while. This was fun. I learned that he knew my brother Kyle in high school and they were friends. We called Kyle and they had a fun conversation. This Danny was very excited about all of these little “coincidences”.
Above: Danny Turley and Kevin Hunt
Danny later wrote to me: “Greetings! It was definitely a treat for me too. What a blessing to find you and Sister Hunt at the William Weeks home. It was such a great experience to hear the thrill in my mother’s voice as you told her how much she meant to you. Thanks for the memories of the Jamboree.”
The next morning I recorded that “Last night at midnight we had terrific lightning. It was really clapping down for quite a while. The bolts seemed to be surrounding our place.”
A ”CHANCE MEETING” OF MY FIRST COUSIN
It was Friday night – and Lou was to have a hula practice the next night. (Typically we have reserved Saturday nights as a Nauvoo date night.) Thus, we wanted to go out to eat on this night. Lou didn’t want to go too far – since we needed to be on the stage later and it was raining a bit. We decided to stay “local” to eat. We decided to drive up Mulholland Street (the main drag in Nauvoo) to check out a couple of new places. Randomly, we picked a place that had a sign saying that it is a Brazilian eatery. We decided to go try the food at this place. It is in the same place where the “River Sidon” café was located a few months ago, and where we went once for breakfast.
Upon entry into the place, a guy on the other side of the room called my name and came running over toward me. I found him to be my first cousin, Kib Hunt.
Above: Cousins Kib and Kevin Hunt with wives. (Can you tell we are related? My mother always quipped, “If you see one Hunt, you’ve seen them all!)
Kib is the son of my Uncle Richard and Aunt Joy (my dad’s middle brother). He lives in South Carolina but came to Nauvoo to rendezvous with two of his former BYU roommates (one of which is a Nauvoo senior missionary and wives. We had a good conversation together. It was great fun to see him. And another “Nauvoo Miracle”.
MEETING THE BORGHOLTHAUS IN-LAWS
On July 31st we went to the British Pageant. Once again we “stood resolute” in the show finale.. We joined many missionaries on both sides of the stage.
After the show, we were “found” by Steve and Holly Borgholthaus. Steve is the brother to Jay (who is the father of our Stuart). Larissa had told us that they were coming here … and she went overboard in telling them where we would be at all moments.
The family did indeed find us once again – this time at the Joseph and Emma Smith Mansion House as we were serving there. Good job, Larissa. Thanks for bringing us together. Always nice to meet the In-laws!
And on this date, the Nauvoo Pageant “Core Cast” staged a little vignette near the Joseph and Emma Mansion House. We were able to catch a photo of Joseph and Emma there at their own home.
MISTAKEN IDENTITY IN THE RISER BOOT SHOP
We were given the blessing and opportunity of serving one day in the Riser Boot Shop. I enjoy this place.
Above: Sister Hunt – the Boot Maker (“Wanna a boot?)
We were really caught off guard by a group of 9 young kids. They looked and acted like an LDS stake youth group. I targeted a young man who looked very much like an LDS prospective missionary. I asked him if he was coming for “missionary shoes”. He gave me a weird look. We found out that these kids are non-members but are a Christian youth group from Missouri. They were to be in Nauvoo for four more days and they were planning to see much while here – including the pageant. The kids were highly impressive.
One girl looked me in the eye and confronted me. She caught me by surprise. She said, “share your testimony with me”. Wow. I looked her in the eye and testified of Christ, modern prophets, and that the true church has been restored on the earth.
We hosted another large group about 4 PM. One family was named Laws. The other half of the group was a guy named Brother Matthews – here with his wife and four of their grandchildren who all completed a reading of The Book of Mormon. The trip was given in recognition of their accomplishment. (They didn’t say how many grandchildren missed the trip by non-reading.) This family was super cool. We loved them. Lou went outside and gave each of the children one of the new Temple bricks. She enjoys giving these out selectively to special people – and these folks met her standard. As we finished with the Matthews family, we had a family of 8 waiting outside – even though the time was then about 5:15 (and we close the sites at 5:00).
On our way home, we happened to spot the Matthews family (him being very visible in his very bright blue shirt). Lou had wanted to give them one of our business cards – and specifically the link to her father and the brick story. The guy was happy with the info.
And somehow Lou invited the folks over to see our Dunn home. They did come – walking. We gave them the usual Dunn family tour and brought them in. They loved everything. I also showed them the 1846 Nauvoo photo taken from the bathroom window of our place. The guy sent this to himself. I also taught them how to use “My Nauvoo Relative”. He had no Nauvoo relatives. I have seldom found this to be the case with folks I have done the app with. Sister Matthews learned that she has about 60 Nauvoo relatives and this made her very happy. Brother Matthews said that this new “revelation” would keep his wife very busy for quite a while.
MEETING FORMER NEIGHBORS IN THE VISITORS’ CENTER
JULY 28TH – MONDAY
On July 29th, a Monday, we served at the Visitors’ Center. We were there with two sets of sister missionaries. Our first group was one of 7 people and they descend, as do I, from Zerah Pulsipher.
We had another group of 7 and in this group, I met a brother Jason Branch. I asked him where he is from and he said, “Phoenix”. I asked him who his father is and he said, “Kerrel”. I had to think about that one for a minute. Hmmm … Kerrel. I said, “So, is that Kerry?” He replied that Kerry is his father. I really surprised the guy when I told him that our Hunt family was back-fence neighbors to his grandparents, Arland and Leila (and his great grandparents, Ether and Julia (and 2nd wife, Pearl) Ferrin – who also lived on 2nd Street (Mesa) near the grandparents when I was a teen. Wow! We had a good visit. We also learned that his son is presently in the Denver North Mission – where our Katelyn is serving on her mission. We each took photos of the two of us and we each sent them to our missionaries. Katelyn responded, “That is so great. Thanks for sending that to me.”
HOSTING A GENERAL AUTHORITY SISTER
We had very intense thunder and lightning on a morning before our tours. The thunder was clapping around us. I was glad that the sites were not closed.
Lou and I served at the Stoddard Tin Shop. It was good to be there. It had been quite a while since we last served there.
In one of our tours (18 people) the group included Sister Kristin Yee, the 2nd Counselor in the General Relief Society Presidency.
I recognized her and she acknowledged that she is that lady. It was great to have her with us. She brought several of her family members. I introduced the angel Moroni (made by Nauvoo tinners) who topped the Nauvoo Temple. Sister Yee noted that he represented the many angels who came as a part of the Restoration. That was cool insight.
We were in a bit of a challenge to end the tour in order to get home. We wanted to get home by 5:00 PM to jump on a Zoom phone call. We just barely made it.
JOINING ANOTHER GREAT ZOOM CALL FOR A MILITARY PROMOTION CEREMONY
On July 30th, we joined a Zoom call with many family members. JD and Kaylea (visiting in Las Vegas) arranged the call.
The occasion was the “promotion” of our son-in-law, Paul Merrill (formerly a Major in the Air Force) to the new rank of Lieutenant Colonel. This proved to be a grand celebration with much of military pomp and ceremony. We were sad that the sound was not better. We had a hard time discerning what was being said. We did get to catch some of it.
A “citation” was read about Paul’s military accomplishments. Paul himself got to express his thoughts. The Colonel let Jenae say a few words as the military wife. Paul and Jenae gave gifts to their children. Paul’s parents, Joe and Bonnie Merrill were in attendance. Our Keith flew up to Las Vegas for just the day and was able to attend the ceremony (in his Army uniform). Several other family members were a part of the call.
We were happy that we were able to participate via the Zoom call and technology.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
OKAY, TIME FOR A BREAK … Go for lunch … do some jumping jacks …
come back when you are ready to hit it again!
This blog article has expanded beyond the capability of the platform and of necessity, the summer adventures will continue in Part 2. So stay tuned. Check it out for MORE GOOD TIMES, MIRACLES, AND CONNECTIONS in our Nauvoo summer.
One of the “perks” of being senior missionaries is that they are given a bit more “freedom” in their missionary service than their younger Elder and Sister counterparts. With authorization, senior missionaries can actually take a brief “hiatus” from service for things like births, marriages, deaths, and other vital family events. This is a very positive thing for the seniors who don’t want to miss out on those special family times.
Our own mission hiatus came back in June. (Yes, and I apologize that this blog is not in true chronological order. (But it will be in the right order when I print it in a book.) At the time that this part of life was happening, Sister Hunt and I were quite busy with the “church history immersion trips” with the Young Sister Missionaries and our historian duties relative to those trips took precedence. Yet it is amazing that we were able to fit everything – even a mission hiatus – into the packed schedule.)
WEDDING BELLS ANNOUNCED
Two or three months ahead of our June events, we were pleased to receive news that our grandson, Bryson, was soon to marry Annie Hunt. Hunt, yes, and don’t be alarmed … Bryson and Annie actually served in the same mission but only met briefly once on their missions. They connected afterwards. And yes, Annie’s maiden name is Hunt. It turns out that the two lovebirds were actually 4th cousins – but per AI and other reports, that seems to be a “safe” arrangement for protection of the family genes. But they didn’t put two and two together – relative to their relative connection – until they were madly in love – and then it was too late to back out.
They announced plans to be married June 6th in the Taylorsville, Utah Temple. (Taylorsville is located in the SW Salt Lake valley.)
Upon hearing the news of the pending nuptials, we approached our mission president and sought his permission for a trip. Permission granted! Thank you, President Mehr!
PLANS FOR A TRANS-CONTINENTAL TRAIN TRIP
Sister Hunt and I have become fans of riding Amtrak trains. Their prices are great – as compared to costly air flights, they do the driving, and in the process, passengers get to see some great country (and hundreds of miles and several states full of corn fields). A couple of years ago – the summer before our mission, I surprised Lou on her birthday with news of a coming whirlwind trip on Amtrak. This trip would take us from our city of Maricopa, Arizona east to Austin, Texas to see Kaylea and family, then the second leg to St. Louis to see Jenae and Family. And it was then that we went with them up to Nauvoo where we spent four wonderful and glorious days together.
(Little did we then know that just 9 months later we would be on a mission to the Nauvoo we were enjoying. And we made a commitment then that we would try to go to Nauvoo with each of our children and their families – thinking this might be a decade-long endeavor. It is a miracle how that all later happened while we were missionaries.)
Then our third train trip leg took us to Provo, Utah where we joined family gatherings and fun. We had previously taken our car to Utah for other events and had left it there for future reference. We reconnected with our car and drove to Idaho for the baptism of a granddaughter. It was a great trip and we loved it.
And so, with the wedding bells chiming, for Bryson and Annie, we checked out options and determined that the train was the way to go. We made our reservations and looked forward to the coming trip. Our hiatus meant that we would have to be gone from June 3 to the 9th of June. (And admittedly, that brought some feelings of guilt – though it really should not have.)
The best travel option was for us to embark upon our journey at the town of Burlington, Iowa – located about 30 miles north of Nauvoo – also on the banks of the Mississippi River. We made an advance trek to Burlington to check out the station location, the parking, and other possible details of meeting the train.
Above: Burlington, Iowa train station
On the appointed day, excitement and anticipation was high. We were ready for the action. We served in a Nauvoo site for much of the day and then headed in the late afternoon for Burlington. We first went to eat at a local food drive-in and took the food with us to eat in the train station parking lot. We found ourselves being in one of just two cars in the expansive parking lot.
Above: The Burlington luggage trailer stands as a silent reminder of glory days of the past
We went into the train station. This station was grand and glorious. It was obvious that in its “heyday” this station had been a major hub of energy and excitement with the trains – freight and passenger – of the day. Not so today! The grandeur was still evident in the magnificent structure but the place had an eerie feeling of abandonment leaving only haunting hints of the past.
As we entered the place, we found only one older lady. She was kind of the spooky guardian of the past. She sat on a bench near the front door – having long since completed her meager cleaning duties of the place for the day. She greeted us cheerfully. She pointed us to the exit doors across the station – from which we would catch our train. This almost seemed like a scene from Harry Potter’s Platform #9 of the Hogwarts Express. There were many similarities.
There was no station attendant, no ticket takers, no sales of tickets, no hustle or bustle and certainly not a commotion of anxious and excited trip takers. Luckily the bathrooms were still operable – though they were also of a vintage of a time gone by. We decided to wait outside for our arriving train. We noted that a couple of teen boys later entered the grand hall and they sat with their mother (not going with them) awaiting our departure time. And then one older guy by himself – also joined us. That was our departing group. So, there we were together … all standing on Platform #9 with the hope that there really would be a train coming to our deserted island.
OUR HIATUS BEGAN WITH A ROARING START
The train did ultimately come to that lonely spot. And that was a major relief. It came as a tornado roaring in. We were poised and ready. As soon as it stopped, the train doors opened up to us. We embarked with our several heavy suitcases. We really did have a ton of bricks with us. We had packed several versions of Nauvoo bricks with us – including many of the new Nauvoo Temple Bricks. We knew that our family would be excited to receive the new generation of Belcher family Nauvoo bricks. We made sure that we were the ones to carry and lift the heavy suitcases – fearing that if a train guy lifted them, we might be banned from the scene because of baggage overload. We really didn’t need to worry, however. There were no scales, no security, and no one to really monitor what we were doing. Glad that we passed those tests!
We boarded and got our luggage secure on the lower level. We then went to our pre-assigned seats. We got ourselves all situated and comfortable in the giant theater-type seats.
We put our feet up and were in a great state of anticipated joy in the comfort of the moment. And then we were off! (“And 20 women fainted …” as my Scoutmaster G. K. Nelson, used to say. He told the story of a woman who was at the races and experienced grief as she noted that her girdle and garters were departing the structure. She passed the word down the line of 20 women – seeking help in the dilemma. And with the excitement of the start gun, the lady and all of her friends heard the fatal words, “They’re off!” … and 20 women fainted. I thought you all might enjoy that historical tidbit of the past.)
We had just boarded when literally within just five minutes, we received some startling news. There was a tornado warning – not just a “watch” – meaning that there was indeed a tornado in our close proximity. Are you kidding me? Just the words “tornado warning” put a fear of terror in the hearts of everyone – and we were no exception.
Our train conductors broke the news to us. And then they took immediate action to protect us. They stopped the train and we were put on permanent hold. I am not sure where we parked but it was pitch black around us.
It was a scene of quiet panic. But we felt protected and mostly safe. We were told that we would be grounded for over an hour until after the tornado was out of our area and imminent danger. We were stopped on our tracks and quietly waited for over an hour.
The news of the tornado watch told me that Nauvoo was likely under the same “watch” guidelines.
ATTENDING TO MISSION DUTY EVEN REMOTELY
Among our many mission duties or callings, we served as District Leaders for our Hyrum #3, Brigham District. The mission had strict guidelines or procedures for making sure that all are safe in such situations. There is a specific communication “chain” to be followed. Each district leader is to personally contact each member of his district to determine where each person was and their status in those whereabouts.
Sister Hunt and I began to make those calls. We found our brothers and sisters in some unusual places. The Ballards were with some of their visiting family in the lower level of the parking garage across the street from the Temple. Some folks migrated down to the scary basements of their historic homes. (We were blessed to have a “finished” basement in our Simeon A. Dunn home … many of the basements were in a state of historic abeyance of the original 1839 to 1846 pioneer era. So, they had their own unique experiences hiding out in those basements.
Above: Elders and Sisters Duthie and Munns hunkering down in Nauvoo basement protected from the tornado action around them
And many of the folks hunkered down together in the basement under the “West Theater” of the Visitors’ Center. That is kind of a scary place now – with its interesting collection of historic relics from many by-gone eras. When I was there 60 years ago, this was a nice space. We even held our mission dinners and activities there. Interesting what time does to physical spaces.
Above: Nauvoo missionaries together in the Nauvoo Visitors’ Center basement safe from the tornado watch around them
Anyway, within a few moments, we were able to account for all of our district members. All were safe – but maybe not “sound”. We made our report upward to our Zone Leader, Elder Mitch Atkinson … and he reported for all of his districts – on up the chain.
With the threat of the tornado, the mission training that was scheduled for the evening got cancelled. So, Elder Duthie did not have to take any notes for me.
Gratefully, the tornado passed us by. We did learn that a freight train about 30 miles away had tipped over in the weather action. Glad that was not us.
I now refer to my personal journal for more details of our hiatus trip:
OUR TRAIN ADVENTURE MOVED WESTWARD
We sent our family a few updates and they responded that they were all praying for us. It is always so nice to have so many people praying for us.
A fellow passenger, Kenny, seated ahead of us heard me talking to my district members and decided that he should talk. He is a military veteran who is living miracle. He was hit in a fox hole and for about a year and a half he was in a coma. He experienced every possible trauma with operations etc. Sounds as if he has had a hard life. He has had two children (now age 20 and 23 who seem to be doing very well. He talked on and on but it was good for us to listen to him, I guess. We patiently listened to him for quite a while.
I spent the night working to create a description of the directories of the saved materials for the Church History Department. This turned into a big project – about 8 pages worth. But, by working diligently, I was able to accomplish the task.
Lou spent some time reading (for the first time) the book that I prepared for her about her Nauvoo ancestors. She said that it was interesting to read the book – after teaching in the sites – and to learn about her own people going through some of the same events and trauma. She read about some of the women weaving and spinning thread to make clothes for a great many family members. She read of corn roasts, Dutch oven cooking, “sociable” and activities. I was pleased that she enjoyed the book.
About 10:00 PM, a train spokesman (maybe the driver) got on the intercom. They had been announcing about the storm status and our current whereabouts. The guy made a final announcement for the evening and informed us that they will resume communications at 7 AM in the morning.
We made a joint trip down the very steep and narrow stairs to the bathrooms. I like to use the handicapped facility as it is very spacious – like a full room – rather than the very small other bathrooms.
We reclined our chairs to be the most comfortable for sleeping. I put my computer up in the rack and I got all of the blankets and pillows down for our use. We then went to sleep.
OUR TRAIN TREK CONTINUIED
JUNE 4TH – WEDNESDAY
We awoke about 6:30 AM in our reclined sleeping seats. Sleep during the night was kind of hit and miss. I could not get totally comfortable, but it was fairly comfortable under the circumstances. I awakened about every hour and a half through the night. We were generally awakened when the train whistle went off as we approached a new village along the way. We spent the night crossing Iowa. We awakened in Nebraska this morning.
We saw much of Iowa before we went to sleep but still missed much of it after dark. And as we slept, we totally missed Nebraska. About 7:00 am this morning we saw an Amtrak sign saying that we were in Ft. Morgan, Colorado. So, we are making progress. A couple more passengers joined us for the ride.
Lou brought breakfast for us. It was just like home. She had cold milk for cereal, bananas and even orange juice for me. Wow. Thanks, Lou!
But, “what goes in must come out” … so something to look forward to. Ugh! Another trip down the stairs!
Lou found a “current bush” (right there at our seat) so she was able to curl her hair as usual. She looked good.
And with the same current bush, I was able to work comfortably at my computer – with the help of a pull-out tray in front of me. This worked quite well. I finished my journal entry from yesterday.
I then began to work on my presentation/book about the recent YSM “Church History Immersion Trip”. I prayed for guidance. With that guidance, I was able to create the full Table of Contents – which is my way of creating the “vision” for the coming book. This is always an exciting accomplishment. It means that the book will really happen. So, here goes …!
We stopped for about a half hour in Denver. We got out and walked about a bit and enjoyed the views of the grand station (which had much more life than the Burlington Depot).
The fresh air felt wonderful and it was great to walk and stretch.
Back on the tracks, we continued westward. We stopped in Frazier Park briefly.
We went up over the Rocky Mountains and the scenery was spectacular. We had been on this route a couple of years ago so I did not just sit and focus on the scenery – as gorgeous as it was.
I loved the views of the majestic Colorado River – which we followed as we traversed down through Colorado (the great state where I was born).
I worked for a while on my “Immersion Project”. We went to the “observation car” for a few minutes. The view was great but I could not get the WIFI to do anything.
We stopped briefly at Glenwood, Colorado. We found an LDS lady to talk to. She saw our missionary badges.
Our Rosalie turned age 4 today. We called her but it was hard to hear with the connection – and with interruptions around us on the train. It will be great to see her in two days.
The afternoon rolled into the evening. We rode through Grand Junction – where Lou’s sister, Emylee lives. The eastern Utah countryside was not real impressive. It got dark and seemed late.
I called Craig Shaltes, one of my young Nauvoo companions, for his birthday. We had a good visit. I tried to talk him into coming to Nauvoo while we are here.
I spent the rest of the day on my “Immersion” project. I created sub-heading pages for each location that we visited. I then put photos to Nauvoo, Adam-Ondi-Ahman, and for Far West. Lou was anxious to assist in finding photos. We did not have enough unique photos for Far West – even between us.
About 10:00 PM, I gave up on the project. I could not get the internet to work and so there wasn’t much that I could do. I packed up the computer and then took a nap for the last hour of the ride.
We then drove up through Green River and Helper. We arrived in Provo about 10:45 PM. We were actually right on time. So, they made up some time somewhere. The Provo Station is nice – but it is secluded and is another scene devoid of any activity.
Kaylea and JD were there to meet us at the station. There was no action or other people there. It was good to see them again – after being away from them for 14 months.
Above: Lou Hunt with our luggage at Provo “station”
We rode with Kaylea and JD to their new home in Lehi, Utah. We had not seen their place before. It is gigantic and beautiful. Kaylea and JD have it fixed up and the many framed art pieces look amazing. They really do a great job in decorating their places. (And as I prepare this blog article on October 28th back at our Maricopa, Arizona home, they are again doing their decorating thing … re-hanging our photos and creating a new photo wall – with all of our family members. So great! Thanks, JD and Kaylea! We are glad we married you!)
Bryson and Annie (the soon-to-be-weds) were here. Lucy and Jett were asleep. We got to visit with Kaylea, JD and Brodey. It was fun to hang out with them all. We figured that it has been two and a half years since we have seen Bryson. We have not seen him since he went on his mission – in January of 2023.
We slept in the “theater room”. This is a giant and comfortable room with their big white couch. We did not go to sleep until about 2:30 PM – Utah time (which is an hour earlier than Nauvoo).
A BELCHER SIBLING REUNION
JUNE 5TH – THURSDAY
We had a long but very enjoyable day. We awoke at the home of Kaylea and JD. We slept last night on the couch. We all got ready to head out. We left in two vehicles. Lucy, Lou, and I rode with Kaylea in her cute pink Bronco vehicle. Brodey rode with JD. They do not have a vehicle that would hold us all.
We had planned with Lou’s siblings to meet for lunch at the Draper Chuck-A-Rama restaurant. This is the same place where we met them for dinner when we were in the MTC. (Chuck-A-Rama has long been one of my favorite buffet places.)
We also invited our children to join us, Jenae and Paul and their kids came up from Las Vegas. We rode to Draper with Kaylea and JD and they had three kids with them. Bryson and Annie were there with us. Dallin drove his own vehicle and met us there.
Dave Belcher, Lou’s brother, did not come. His wife had to work today. Gary and Holly Evans were there. They are both looking much older. They have both aged a lot in the 14 months since we have seen them. Vern and Celia Belcher were there. Kay and Jack Bollwinkel joined us. Emylee and Ken Patterson did not come up from Grand Junction. We don’t know if they got the two messages that we sent out. Jerry and Jerrie Lee did get our messages. They had planned initially to come to be with us for the lunch but their plans changed. And of course, Brad and Kerry are on a mission in San Diego
Above: The Belcher Siblings and spouses June 5, 2025
Keith and Kayla and their whole clan all came to be with us. They were late but it worked out. We had half of the large room to ourselves. We shared the space with a large Tongan family. So, we had three of our children and 13 of our grandchildren present with us. It was so fun to be with everyone once again. It was a joyful reunion. The teen cousins were all happy to hang out together.
IN THE BEST OF THE BELCHER TRADITION AND LEGACY
Keith quipped that he was eating a lot of bread – thinking of Gramps Belcher. When he was very young, he and Rusty came to Utah and spent a summer with Gramps – and they worked with him at the “This is the Place Monument”. Gramps often took them to eat at Chuck-A-Rama. And in those days, Gramps chastised the boys for eating bread at the place. He said, “If you want bread, I will take you to a grocery store and buy you a loaf for a dollar.” He didn’t think that they should be wasting Chuck-A-Rama by eating bread.
In an effort to maintain pride in the Belcher brick legacy, we took one of the new Nauvoo Temple bricks to each of the Belcher siblings. They loved these. We also showed them the book of Nauvoo ancestors and also the book about the new brick miracles. They liked both of the books.
I think that equates to 29 people! A fun group!
Above: The family group gathered at the family luncheon
We also showed them the book about their Nauvoo Belcher ancestors and also the book about the new brick miracles. They liked both of the books.
Above: Keith Hunt, design engineer, shows off the new Nauvoo Temple brick
At the end of the activity, Lou and I staged a historic moment. We gathered with us, Kaylea and Jd, and Keith for a photo op. We were the design team that together designed and created the new Nauvoo Temple Brick. The designers included Lou and me as the masterminds, JD and Kaylea who created the 9 designs from which the mission President and Church History Department chose the Temple design, and Keith who was the engineer who created the CAD files for the company who created the new brick molds.
Above: The design team for the new Nauvoo Temple Brick: (L to R) JD and Kaylea Stoddard, Keith Hung, Kevin and Lou Hunt
The whole activity was wonderful. It was great to have so many of the family there with us. We had a fun time. We took many photos at the event and afterwards.
WEDDING PREPARATIONS AND SUPPORT
We went back home to Lehi with Kaylea. I soon left with JD. We went shopping to buy food for the wedding luncheon that Kaylea and JD are staging after the wedding tomorrow. We went to Costco and then to Smith’s Food King. I bought a bunch of food to feed many family members on Saturday at the Belcher cabin). I bought ingredients to make German Pancakes – per the request of Marinda (who can be very forward in suggesting food for others to make for her). I bought watermelon, frozen fruit, plates and cups, Costco rolls, muffins, eggs, etc. JD brought materials for the luncheon.
Lou gave the new bricks to Keith, Jenae and Kaylea. They were all very pleased to receive them. Keith spent time reading the book that I made about the creation of the new brick. He appears in the book.
OUR EXPANDING FAMILY
All of the family were travelling today. Marinda and Mike got a late start leaving from Maricopa. He had to make a work stop on the Indian reservation somewhere. Jackie is traveling with her two boys and they are all riding with Larissa and her two boys. Lana and husband and four children were to arrive from Idaho later. Their two older daughters are coming on their own tomorrow. Rusty and Fabriza – with their son and daughter came on their own and they got here safely – but we have not seen them yet.
Michael is not coming for whatever reason. Stuart just got a new job so could not get off work. Blake is attending FSY (the church youth conference) this week. We have the three missionaries – Katelyn, Abby, and Joseph all still serving.
When Annie joins the family, we will have 64 family members. Twelve will not be here but 52 of the family will be here for the wedding.
Annie, the bride, called and said that they needed help to move a giant tent that is to be a part of the reception tomorrow. So, many of us headed up to Taylorsville (Salt Lake City) where she and her family live. It was a challenge to bring together people from all over to help with the task. But, once we got everyone collected, most of us got on a single pole of the tent and helped move it 90 degrees.
I was pleased to meet Annie’s father. He seems like a good guy. He was kind of challenged at the moment with wedding preparations. He is Jonathan (John) Albert Hunt. He and I are third cousins (not removed). His great grandfather was Zera Pulsipher Terry Hunt who is a brother to my Elias Franklin Hunt. So, Annie and I are third cousins once removed. She and Bryson are 4th Cousins once removed. (Kaylea and Annie are 4th Cousins). This is all interesting and fun.
I said, “Well at least we are not all living in Alabama, Oklahoma or Arkansas.” They said it was interesting getting the wedding license – since Bryson has Hunt in his full name.
I met Jason, who is Annie’s brother. He is about age 19. He has a girlfriend and the family is holding the luncheon tomorrow – and the wedding reception both at the home of this guy’s girlfriend’s grandparents. I asked her what their name is and she said, “Hancock”. I said, “Then we are cousins!” We tried to run the “Relatives Around Me” phone app but she had to load it onto her phone and it was not working really well.
PREPARATIONS AND MORE FAMILY TIME
JD took all of the luncheon food – as well as his musical equipment down in his truck. He is going to be “JD the DJ” tomorrow night.
Lou and I went to dinner with Jenae and Paul and family, Kaylea, JD and some of their family). We dined at a very unique and interesting restaurant. The place has authentic racing cars suspended all over above our heads – and hanging down from the ceiling. The place is called “The Garage Grill”. We all got burgers of some kind. Mine was way too much food (especially after eating the big lunch meal at Chuck-A-Rama).
The restaurant was not busy so we were able to just hang out and visit together. This was very fun.
We went back to the Kaylea/JD home to hang out more. Lana and Spencer – with the four children about 9:00 PM. It was also great to see them all. They came inside and visited with everyone for a while.
Jenae and Paul took their kids and some girl cousins to their nearby Air BandB place. The three girls had a grand time knitting animals together. All three are very “crafty”.
We had quite a crowd here at Kaylea’s place tonight. (Keith and family spent the night with his former mission companion, Parker. They ate dinner with them tonight.)
Bryson staged a “bachelor party” tonight for his Arizona friends. He said, “They all came”. They went to dinner and then to a mini-golf place. They showed up at the Stoddard home to watch a movie. I was pleased to see Brecken Bogle and Kirk Evans. I talked to Brecken about our common Pacana Park Ward and missionaries currently serving from the ward. Kirk got home from his mission about three months ago. He went to Africa. His brother, Russell also went to Africa. Their missions overlapped. Kirk was able to fly to Minneapolis where Russell had a layover for a couple of hours on his way to Africa.
The rest of us – with Jenae, Kaylea, and Lana and families all visited tonight. This was fun.
Lou and I slept in the soon-to-be newly-weds suite. Bryson and his six or so bachelor buddies spent the night in the theater room. (Not sure where they all slept!)
THE WEDDING DAY FOR BRYSON AND ANNIE
JUNE 6TH – FRIDAY
Wow! What a day!
The bachelors stayed up to 4:30 AM. Bryson also followed the same schedule. Lou had her shower last night. I got up at 6:30 AM to get mine. Bryson was soon in there as the other guys slept. Bryson was next. He got into a very fancy beige suit and he looked amazing. One by one, all of his friends found their way to the shower. I am surprised that there was enough time to get everyone through.
I read several chapters from the book of Alma. This was good. I read of the end of the Nephite wars – in the days of Moroni and Helaman.
We all left about 8:30 AM. Lou and I rode with Kaylea. JD drove his truck. Dallin drove his vehicle. We drove to the Taylorsville Temple. I had not been there before. The Temple was beautiful.
We had all kind of planned for Keith and Kayla to help tend or herd the many other grandchildren while their parents were in the Temple. This back-fired a bit. He had engine trouble. He backed out of a driveway and hit another car that was behind him. I am sure that this made him very sad. The door of the other vehicle was damaged but his big van suffered little abuse.
THE TEMPLE SEALING
Above: Elder Kevin and Sister Lou Hunt at Taylorsville, Utah Temple
We had a multitude of family gathered at the Taylorsville Temple for the wedding. It was great to have all seven of my women and one son and a daughter-in-law there on the row with me. (I note that I have often said that I fulfill scripture with my “seven women”. (Isaiah 4:1, and 2 Nephi 14:1)
The sealer had an interesting name – which I did not remember. It was something like Hereon. He was great, however. He saw my missionary name tag as he entered the sealing room and singled me out and shook my hand and said, “Elder Hunt, it is good to have you here and thank you for serving a mission.”
The mothers of the bride and groom were seated at the end of the room. Lou joined Kaylea there in an adjacent seat. The sealer switched the seating spots of the witnesses Jon Hunt and JD Stoddard so that they were facing their wives.
There were about 40 people in the ceremony. It was great to know that we were also related to most of the folks on the bride’s side of the family. We were all descendants of Elias and Aluna Terry Hunt. I hope that all of the ancestors up through them were there though I did not feel them individually.
It was a beautiful and sacred time as Bryson led his lady, Annie Hunt inside and was seated. They looked great together. The “new” ceremony is wonderful. Bryson looked directly into the eyes of Annie the whole time. She focused upon the sealer. He also could not stop smiling. So, another Celestial union was begun. Very exciting.
After the ceremony we went outside to get reunited with the many grandchildren. We went to the east side of the Temple where they have the newlyweds make their exit for photographs. Keith and Kayla and family had settled their trauma (at least temporarily) and were able to join us. Excitement was high as the new couple made their grand exit from the Temple. Bryson gave Annie a dipping kiss and many more to come.
We all then went to the north face of the Temple. Kaylea was the “mother of the groom” but she was also the event photographer. She staged a multitude of poses with various family groups. I was happy to get a full group photo.
This is always a laborious task – for both the photographer as well as for those being photographed. And the heat became stronger the longer we were out there. Everyone was patient with the exercise.
THE WEDDING LUNCHEON AND AFTERNOON FESTIVITIES
We then went en masses to the location where the luncheon and the later reception was to be held. This is the home of a Brother Hancock. His granddaughter is being dated by a brother to the bride and this guy consented to let the party to be held at his home. This guy is a widow. His wife died about a year ago.
The home was very unique. It was a hexagonal shape. In the center of the place was a very large “pit” and in this pit was a sunken trampoline. The family room (without the tramp) would have been quite large. The trauma with this house was that there was only one operational toilet (and there was a large crowd there throught the day).
JD and Kaylea (by wedding tradition) were in charge of the wedding luncheon and we planned for about 125 people to be there. JD had asked Lou and me – and Kaylea’s sisters – to help stage the event. We all went work to prepare the food for the crowd. We prepared trays with ham, cheese, and rolls. Paul cut up watermelon. Jenae and Jackie cut up rolls and meat. Lou kind of functioned as the “kitchen manager” and she did well in the role. I made the punch – as usual. The Kool-Aid was tropical punch flavored – not my favorite. I made two 5-gallon tanks of the punch. I later had to add a bit more water to the mix.
We all agreed that the kitchen was a “loser”. It was not at all conducive for staging a big party. We did the best that we could under the circumstances.
We ate outside in a very large yard. The weather was quite pleasant. JD and Kaylea should have (also by tradition) also been in charge of the luncheon but the other Hunts had a son-in-law serve as the MC. (This even though JD brought much of his sound equipment and thought that he was to be the “DJ” for the event.) We were ready with the food much earlier than the other folks were ready to start. Many of our posterity wanted to help. Easton and Trevor were very helpful in taking stuff from inside to the outside area.
We ate lunch – and by this time everyone was quite ready to eat. I enjoyed visiting again with “cousin” Jon – the bride’s father and his father – Zera Hunt.
I did the dishes from the event and straightened up the kitchen. I then needed to “see a man about a horse” and did not want to use the grungy bathroom facility I had already experienced. I made a trek to a park located across the street.
We went to a small park nearby and then Annie told the family of a bigger and better park located a mile or so away. This proved to be a wonderful place. It was replete with a variety of slides, swings, paths, etc. We all gravitated to a quiet place in the shade. We let the kids play about and the adults just sat and talked. This was a fun time together. We all enjoyed the informality of the situation. We were there for two hours or so.
On the way to the park, Rusty went to a local service station. He offered to buy drinks for his family and for me. I found an interesting milk shake making machine. It was a bit of a challenge to figure out the machine but we finally did so. I got a mint chocolate chip milk shake for both Lou and me. Lou seemed to enjoy the shake – as did I.
A VERY UNIQUE AND FUN WEDDING RECEPTION
We returned to the Hancock home for the rest of the wedding festivities. The venue was gaily decorated. There was a giant tent – under which there were many tables and chairs, and a big space for dancing. The food serving area was located centrally in the area.
The food for the evening included purple “power shakes” and pizza. They kept Domino’s Pizza coming hot and ready all night. I enjoyed just a single piece of the pizza. I was still full from the earlier meal.
Bryson and Annie stood (without parents) under a lace arch that was decked out with beautiful flower arrangements. These arrangements and the multitude of corsages and boutonnieres made by the florist reminded me of my own pleasant days of being a florist. I worked at Crismon’s Flowers for nearly three years before my mission and for a couple of years later (in Mesa and in Provo, Utah) after my mission.
Lou and I passed through the “line” early on. We enjoyed visiting with our Boy Bryson and Annie. Annie is personable and friendly and she is already calling Lou and me Grandpa and Grandma. We like her a lot. We think that she is a great addition to the family. We love her already. Bryson and Annie seem to make a great pair.
I was pleased to get a photo of me with grandsons, Bryson and Caleb. We are definitely look-a-likes. All of our photos through the years look alike.
i got a photo of me with my kid brother, Ray. I would hate to look as old as him!
I was surpIised to look over to see Stephanie (Hunt), the daughter of my deceased cousin Bruce Hunt. And she was very shocked to see me (in Utah, no less). I guess she and John, the father of the bride, have been friends for many years – since high school. It was fun to see her reaction when she saw me – and a shock to John as Stephanie told him that she was related to both Hunt sides of the wedding. Stephanie called her mother, Jane Hunt, and she came over and visited for a while.
I enjoyed meeting MANY cousins at the events of the day. Jonathan Albert Hunt is the father of the Bride. His father is Zera (and his grandfather is Zera Pulsipher Terry Hunt – who is a brother to my great grandfather, Elias Franklin Hunt. I liked visiting with him. He introduced me to another of his sons – Andrew. We got a great photo of Jane, Stephanie, Andrew, John, and my sons, Rusty and Keith. This was great!
I liked visiting with many of my posterity – and giving hugs to all of the children. It was nice to be reunited again after the 14-month absence away from them. I visited with a few of Bryson’s friends. It was fun to again see Chase Woodhouse. We got to know him quite well as Bryson’s friend in Maricopa. He recently came home from a mission to Texas.
Lou and I got a photo with our 35 grandchildren (36 with Annie). This was a bit tricky to corner them (and their parents) at once but my persistence paid off. So great to have to many together at once. We were missing Blake Bowles (FSF), thee missionaries – Joseph Stoddard, Abby Bowles, Katelyn Merrill and the four children of K.C. and Celeste. I loved the photo.
Annie and Bryson staged a dance and got many folks (mostly young adults) going for it. It was fun to watch their energy.
Annie and Bryson did the traditional “feed each other the cake” thing. Bryson danced with Kaylea. I told her that was probably the longest time she has had with just him in a few years. She agreed.
After the above activities, the bride and groom (him in different pants) decided (pre-planned) to go jump into the swimming pool. She was in her wedding gown still. This was a fun activity for all to witness. Then many other folks decided to jump into the pool also. Even Kaylea got into this action. She said that the water felt really great after the heat and stress of the day.
Then it was time for the bride and groom to make their exit. All guests were invited to come out near the get-away car. We lined up in two long lines and the couple ran through between us. And to add to the fun, we all were given water balloons and we got to bombard the newlyweds as they made their escape.
And then they were gone. Tomorrow they will leave for a nearly week-long trip to Mexico to “moon their honeys”.
Many people said later that this reception was the best or most fun they had ever experienced. It certainly was a lot of fun.
After the couple departed, our family pitched in to help take down all of the tables, chairs, etc. We soon had the job completed.
ANOTHER GATHERING AT THE BELCHER “EVEY CABIN”
Rusty and Fabriza went off to their Air BandB – as did Jenae and Paul. Jenae and Paul took two of Kaylea’s kids with them for the night. Lana and Spencer went to an Air BandB also. All of the rest of us – Lou and me, Jackie and boys, Kaylea and JD with 3 kids, Keith and Kayla and their 8 kids, Marinda and Mike and their seven, and Larissa and boys (I think that makes 32 people) all went up Provo Canyon to Heber City.
We all spent the night at the Belcher (“Evey’s family cabin”.)
Lou and I rode with JD and Kaylea. We were about an hour behind the rest of the group. We did not get there until about midnight. Jackie had already been able to get most of the kids asleep. We were literally all laid out in every available space. Lou and I had opposite ends of the couch. Jett and Dallin were in very strange places – on very narrow cushions.
JD, Kaylea, and Jackie laid three to a bed. And Lou’s couch was adjacent to JD’s narrow space on the bed. I told him that he ought to be happy being in bed with three women. Keith and their eight children were up on the top floor of the A-frame. Larissa was on a large chair on the lower floor. Marinda and family had the middle floor.
We are grateful that we were able to obtain use of the Belcher cabin. A note about use of the family cabin. Things have changed a bit. There are only a few people who still have ownership in the place. The taxes for the place have become exorbitant. In an effort to save money, those still in, have contracted reservations and use of the place through an outside company called VRBO.
It was like 1:00 AM when we finally got to bed. It had been a grand day … so much fun and so many great experiences with the family. We are grateful that most of our family could be here with us – and we are grateful that we were able to get authorization for us to be here ourselves. We thank the Lord for our family and the blessings of the Gospel that make our eternal family so special.
A SPECIAL REUNION TIME IN THE SPACE AND SPIRIT OF GRAMPS BELCHER
JUNE 7TH – SATURDAY
The crowd awoke this morning at the Belcher “Evey’s Cabin” (which he and other familiy members helped to create). Such a beautiful space! And all of us felt the spirit of gramps Belcher there with us.
There were many stories shared about the evening spent in the cabin. The worst war story was the snoring of Mike Roller – whose z’s rocked the place and reverberated and echoed down the walls. I was happy that I slept well. I did not hear the other noises that others complained of. I was able to get in a shower before the rush. This was good.
My next task was to help facilitate breakfast for the crowd. Mike volunteered to cook pancakes. The ladies decided that it was a bit too traumatic to try to cook the German pancakes for such a crowd. While he cooked the pancakes, I helped to organize all of the rest of the stuff. We had muffins, bananas, mixed berries, milk, small oranges, cold cereal, and more. We had quite a spread of stuff to choose from.
About the same time, Lou and Larissa mentioned the opportunity for kids to dig in the sand with the hope of finding coins hidden in the sand (leftover from previous Belcher gatherings). There was a mad dash to the pile and the digging activity kept the kids very active and enthused for hours. This proved to be a fun activity for them.
Lou and all of the other adults checked their pockets and purses and found many coins that could be buried for the kids. Later, after the pile had been greatly explored, Lou upped “the ante” and said that the first kids to come forth with a penny could trade their penny for a bill (and she found $5.00 bills). She also buried three $5 bills. Lucas came forward first and got the $5. He also found two of the other bills. Samuel, Grant, and even little Rosalie came one at a time later and wanted the bill. Lou managed to scrounge for then ($1 for Rosalie … and she was pretty proud of it.)
A TOUR OF THE BELCHER CABIN PROPERTY
With the meal done, the entire family was ready for more action. I offered to take the crowd on a walk-about around the place. We were surprised at how many folks had not been there for twenty five or more years. This included Jackie, Jenae, Marinda, and Keith. Kaylea, Lana and Larissa have been to the place in recent years.
Just as we were organized to go on our hike, Lana and Spencer arrived with their family. We halted the action and I went in to assist them in getting breakfast. We were ready to head out then – though the arrival time of Rusty and Fabriza, Jenae and Paul was still an unknown.
Above: A bunch of the Hunt cousins at the Belcher Cabin
Larissa (the able family scheduler) had arranged with Lou’s brother, Dave Belcher, for us to go up to his coral or barn to watch him feed his zebra and buffalo. He called and said that the animals had come down from “above” and were ready to eat. He said that we could come earlier.
Above: Dave Belcher telling stories to the family members
Dave was in the height of his glory having an audience to entertain. He loved having us there. I told him that we had 50 members of our family present. He was excited and impressed. (Minus Bryson & Annie, Cambrie, and Maycie from the wedding day.) The kids loved seeing the animal action. Some got to feed the animals carrots and of them cautiously kept their distances.
Lou sent me back to the cabin because she had forgotten to take the Nauvoo Temple brick that she had brought for Dave.
Dave shared with a bit of the history of the acquisition and the development of the Belcher cabin property – beginning with H. Belcher who first acquired the initial property as payment for his movement of some giant building structures. For many years it was unusable since it had no water rights. Later, after the death of Gramps, Dave was able to buy additional property to secure water rights and the right to build two structures – one on his property and the lot where the cabin stands.
Jenae and Paul and kids arrived about this time. Rusty and family came last. Dave let the men cut some of the timbers. The saw is massive.. JD, Keith, Paul, and Mike all tried their hand at using the giant saw – and each was very happy with this opportunity. It was a sure sign of “manliness”.
Dave continued our tour of the place and we followed him around the place – over the woods and through the river. We were all enthralled with his stories. I was quite surprised at how enwrapped with the whole activity that even the youngest kids were. They all seemed to enjoy the activity.
GRANDMA LOU SHARES THE STORY OF THE BELCHER BRICK LEGACY IN NAUVOO
When we got back to the coral with the animals, I announced that Grandma Lou wanted to say something. She had the Temple brick in hand – in the Nauvoo Fudge Factory box. She then proceeded to tell all of the posterity about the development of the new Temple brick and our role in making it happen.
This proved the perfect setting for her to tell the story. It was good for all of the kids to hear the story – and the Gramps Belcher legacy – and us being able to carry on the legacy. She also told of the roles of Kaylea and JD, and Keith in the development of the new brick. This was a good thing and a fun time. Lou had previously created and distributed packages of the new bricks to each family – with enough of the new bricks for all family members (even down to the youngest). I am glad that all of the kids got to hear the story.
Lou then presented the new brick to Dave. He loved the whole scene and also the new brick
MORE REUNION FUN TOGETHER
We all then returned back to the cabin. And of course, all of the kids could not wait to get back into their treasure digging. The fun continued for them. (This is a long-standing tradition – also started by Dave – and has been the tradition in Belcher family reunions for over 20 years.)
Lunch for all was the next item on the agenda. We had meat and cheese left from yesterday. We put out all of the leftovers from breakfast. We also put out cake, chips, fruit, and more. Again there was a great buffet of options. There was plenty of food for everyone – and it was fun to be together.
I think that all of our children were grateful to be at the property. Several said that they felt the power and presence of Grandma and Grandpa Belcher – and others – a quiet sanctity being there. This made us happy. We were so grateful that they had this special feeling.
MAKING OUR DEPARTURE FROM THE REUNION AND CABIN
Then, all too soon, it was time for us all to depart the cabin. I had washed the dishes and cleaned up the kitchen. Everyone else worked to pack up their own things. Jackie, and Larissa and even Keith had talked of staying an extra night but they decided also to head out toward home.
Everyone had very full cars all loaded “to the gills”. I had a hard time even finding space in the vehicles for food leftovers.
After the last of the people and gear had departed from the cabin, I swept and mopped the place. This was a bit of a job. It reminded me of the many times I have done this in the management roles in Boy Scout camps through the years.
Someone got the idea to have a “grand send-off” for each family as they were loaded with children and gear and were ready to head off. One by one, we gathered for each family and we clapped, hooted and waved to the departing family. Lou and I were next to the last to leave. Marinda wanted to be the final car – or it just worked out that way. This was a fun way to depart the cabin and our special time together.
Lou and I – again in Dallin’s car – and with JD as the driver, headed down the mountain and Provo Canyon. I thought of Paul’s accident there just a few weeks before he was to marry Jenae. I also thought of my cousin, Christopher Kam Hunt, who was killed in an accident on the same highway years ago. Paul later (tonight) recounted his memory (or non0memory) of his accident experience.
Rusty and family headed home to Maricopa. They made it to St. George where they had a hotel for the night. Lana and Spencer were the first to get home – to Idaho Falls. Keith and family went to visit Kayla’s sister who lives in the Salt Lake area. They also ended up spending the night there. Larissa dropped Jackie and boys off at Kaylea’s place. She went to eat dinner with her mother-in-law. Jenae and Paul came to the Stoddard home with us – and remained there until late. Marinda and Mike drove to Cedar City where they stayed (all of them) with some friends from their mission(s). Larissa came to the Stoddard home later after the evening with the mother-in-law.
So we ended up with another crowd at Kaylea’s place. Paul had arranged with JD to buy dinner (together) for all of us. They barbequed hamburgers as the rest of us sat outside (in very pleasant weather) and visited. The teens – Trevor, Lucy, Dallin, Caleb, Darren, and Jett all went swimming and sat in the 90 degree hot tub.
The hamburgers proved to be wonderful. Both guys know the art of grilling to perfection. The food was all good.
Then we again sat around and visited some more. Larissa returned and she and Jackie and boys also found space to spend the night.
It was way late – again and Lou and I needed to get to bed – since we had to depart at 3:30 AM (tomorrow) for our return trip home. We all had to get more photos of every possible group. Kaylea took family group photos with us in them and then individually with each family member. She is a great photographer (as are other family photographers – Jenae, Lana, and Rusty). She is also the “energizer bunny” when it comes to taking photos. She just keeps going and going. And thankfully, her photos do turn out beautifully.
Jenae and family headed off to their local Air BandB place. They will connect with his folks tomorrow before heading back to Las Vegas.
We finished all of the above and headed to bed about 11:30 PM. Lou and I again spent the night in the bed that will become that of the newlyweds, Bryson and Annie. I dreaded getting up at 2:30 AM.
SUCH A JOYFUL REUNION AND FAMILY GATHERING
But Wow! What a joyful weekend it has been with all of us together. We have had so many special times and activities. All of the adults got along well (and we didn’t even have any arguments). And the many cousins loved being together and just hanging out together. The time could not have been more perfect and wonderful. It was a great blessing for all of us to be together. We were grateful that everything came together as it did. I am grateful for our wonderful family that the Lord has blessed us with. And per my patriarchal blessing that I received years ago, and other church teachings, I believe that we were together in heaven before coming to earth and that we actually chose our families even then. I believe that we came to Earth in those chosen families to grow together, to help and to serve one another.
We are grateful that Bryson and Annie have come together and we look forward to many special family times with them in coming years. They headed off for a week of “mooning their honey” in Mexico. They will then go on a gathering with her family. They will ultimately return to live in the basement of Kaylea and JD in kind of secluded quarters – yet close to the family. We hope that everyone survives each other in this arrangement.
TIME TO HEAD BACK TO NAUVOO
JUNE 8TH – SUNDAY
I got up at 2:30 AM top get ready to leave – and showered even at that hour. Lou had previously showered. She had all of her bags – and joint things packed as I emerged. I quickly finished my own final packing. We had a lot less weight – with the subtraction of the many bricks – but still had the same number of bags.
Kaylea and JD willingly took us (even at the unearthly hour of 3:15 Am) to Provo train “station”. This is hardly a station. There is a nice little ramada and a couple of benches – but no trace of train administration. We visited and I kept checking on the Amtrak mobile app to track the pending arrival time of the “Train #6 – the California Zepher. The train started the day in Salt Lake City and arrived exactly on time to us at 4:19 AM. We got our last hugs and Kaylea took her final photos – even of us through the train door.
THE TRAIN TREK BACK EAST TOWARD NAUVOO
After we got settled on the train, we slept for 3 hours. This was much needed and welcome rest.
After the sleep, I read the rest of the book of Alma. Lou put out breakfast for us. Jenae had bought us many goodies for the “road”. This was so kind of her.
I then read of Iowa Sites in National Parks booklets. The Parks did a fabulous job in their descriptions of the many places along the Iowa Mormon trail. This proved to be great info for the Immersion book. I continued this reading for a couple of hours. Reading this information helped me insert new “chapters” (sites) and to put them into chronological order. This was all great! Again, however, I was “thrashed” with the lack of internet. I had previously (at Kaylea’s place) downloaded a plethora of photos from e-mail messages hoping that I would have enough to proceed – but it did not work out that way. I continued to need additional photos and sent them to myself. The messages came through on my phone but not on my laptop where I needed them. So, again limited progress and continued frustration.
We made a 6-minute stop at Grand Junction, Colorado – where Emylee Patterson lives. We were there at 10:15 AM (20% of trip!)
We met Amtrak “Conductor” (see photo) Cody Muse (German name) and visited with him for several minutes. He lives in Colorado. He was very friendly as he did his seat inventory job. We talked of Nauvoo and our role there. (He said, “Yeah, I saw your nametag!”) He said that he wants to go to Maricopa to visit our train museum there. We told him that we would love to “put him up” if he does get to Maricopa. He was a pleasant young man.
Lou wrote in her journal. She was behind a few days in her writing. Many photos were received from Jenae. Throughout the day, we watched on the family WhatsApp program. It was fun to note the progress of the various family members as they made their stops and progression toward their Arizona homes. At this writing, we have heard from Rusty, Jackie and Larissa who made it safely home. We await news of the others.
We stopped for about 5 minutes at Glenwood Springs, Colorado. This was a place of beautiful scenery and a fun station environment.
Again we enjoyed the grandeur of the mountains, the greenery, the Colorado River, and all of the rest of the beauty of the world around us as we traveled. I worked mainly on my project but did look up occasionally to enjoy the majestic views.
We stopped for almost an hour in Denver. Many people got off of the train and many more on-boarded. Lou and I went walking and found our way to a bar and grill (not bad in atmosphere). We there ordered milk shakes – which we enjoyed on a nearby bench.
We had to be back on board the train at 6:45 PM. We heard the sound of the train whistle and hurried back to get on-board. The train personnel were there to greet us. They do well at remembering their passengers. We returned to our seats – numbers 25 and 26 in our car (I don’t remember the car number). Our luggage was downstairs and seemed secure.
I got engrossed in my journal writing for the past two days and Lou also worked on her journal. We braced for another night on the train – spending the night – and with a projected arrival time of 10:35 AM in Burlington, Iowa tomorrow morning. It is a challenge to sit for so many hours but we do welcome the brief “air “ breaks (refreshing but no so cool with the many smokers who get off and share their smoke with us). We get off anyway and it is good to stretch our legs – and to use the loo again. We get “TB” (tired buns) but it is bearable – and still a great way to travel. It is nice not to drive, pay gas, find stops, motels, etc.
ALMOST BACK TO NAUVOO
JUNE 9TH – MONDAY
I awoke this morning on the train about 5:30 AM and could not get back to sleep. I saw a beautiful sunrise and took a photo of it. Gorgeous. I am not sure if it was Nebraska or if it was Iowa.
We traveled most of the day in the state of Iowa. We stopped at Osceola, Ottumwa, Iowa. We really did not have a major stop.
I spent the morning again working on my Immersion project. I got several photos posted appropriately. I was pleased that I had a period or two where the internet was working.
We talked with a young conductor guy who served us yesterday and today. I don’t know when he sleeps. He said that he works for six days on. Wow. This guy, D.J. Steele, said that this trip is first on the job.
TRAVELING WITH MANY AMISH COMPANIONS AND TALKING FAMILY HISTORY
At Osceola, a crowd of Amish folks embarked. I enjoyed visiting with a couple of young guys – who are cousins. I mainly talked to the guy who was closest to me across the aisle. His name is Chester Yoder. He is age 21. I asked him many questions about being Amish.
Is Amish a religion or a lifestyle? He said it is not a religion
What is your occupation? Carpenter
How long do you go to school? Through 8th grade (then focus upon a trade)
Do you use electricity? No
How do you travel? We drive buggies driven by horses
Do you make your own wagons? There are a few places where they are made and can be purchased.
How many people can fit in them? Mom and Dad in the back and maybe six kids in the back.
Can you choose your own girl for marriage? Yes, we are not set-up
Do you use telephones and cell phones? No cell phones … phones if operated by a battery pack – and not electricity
This guy is age 21 and seemed quite sharp. He had blonde hair and a “bowl cut”. I asked him if he has ever used a computer and he replied that he has not. I told him that I mainly use mine for research. I also told him about my journal and he found this interesting. I told him that the first 101 volumes were hand-written. I showed him how I have scanned all of the volumes and then can open each. I randomly opened one that is handwritten. This is from 1974. He was intrigued with this. I think he saw the year and asked me how old I am. He was probably a bit surprised when I told him “70”.
I also talked genealogy with him. I told him that the phone could be used to do research on the internet. An old guy in the seat in front of Chester heard our conversation. He is into family history research – but obviously does not use a computer to do it. He said that he knows a lady who helps him occasionally.
I told Chester about census records and how they are not released until about 72 years after they are taken. I told him that his grandfathers were probably listed with their families. I got onto Ancestry and tried to look up 2 grandfathers. I was thrashed by the internet that was working only sporadically – and that with a “mobile hotspot” through my phone. This was frustrating. I finally got this to work kind-of. He knew that his grandfather was John Yoder and knew that he died in 2012. I estimated his birth year as 1935. I found the grandfather on Ancestry and was just ready to show Chester what I had found. Then it was time for us to depart the train at our Burlington station.
Knowing that Chester had no phone or e-mail capability, I hurried and pulled out a card and suggested that if he wants me to help him, he can write me a letter with information on how to reach him. (And of course at home, later, I looked up the grandfather and found his line back about seven generations in Pennsylvania. Wow! I hope that he writes me back.
ARRIVAL IN BURLINGTON AND HEADING BACK TO NAUVOO
We arrived in Burlington just after 10:30 AM. This was right at the scheduled time. DJ and others helped us get our stuff off of the train. Lou and I took several photos to document our arrival. We were the last of the family to arrive home after the weekend.
We went to the parking lot and found that our vehicle was still all in one piece – even though it was out in the open – with no one else around. We put all of our luggage into the car and headed off toward our Nauvoo mission home.
We went home via the Burlington “Great River Bridge” because it does not have toll payment (as the Ft. Madison bridge does when heading back to Nauvoo). The bridge was magnificent. This route also put us on a route of about 20 miles that we had never on before. We enjoyed the green countryside.
Wow! We had a great hiatus away from the mission with such grand family times together. We felt a bit guilty about being away but were so grateful that we were able to make the trek. Our family bonds were strengthened and they are just as important as is the mission. Both are important functions and sometimes we have to make a choice between two wonderful options. That is what this hiatus was.
I decided that I could just call this little hiatus another part of the mission. I was glad that we made the effort to go to the wedding and the reunion. Such special memories that tie to and complemented our overall mission experience!
A mission hiatus … such a special time … and then we were ready to get back to work.
Well we are officially home from our mission. It has been a bit of a shock transitioning. We have spent days trying to get unpacked and settled back into our house – while also having a multitude of our family here with us. An adventure, for sure.
It was interesting that it took eight days after our arrival home to officially get released from the mission. Our stake got a new stake presidency the weekend after our return and they were obviously rather busy. We ultimately met with the new President.
This blog does not come in true chronological order (as I would desire) so there will ultimately be other blog articles that should be inserted here … but anyway …
Here are the homecoming talks that we presented in our Pacana Park Ward sacrament meeting on October 26th. We dressed in our Nauvoo pioneer costumes just for added effect.
This is what Sister Hunt said:
MISSION HOMECOMING TALK PRESENTED BY SISTER LOU HUNT IN THE PACANA PARK WARD ON SUNDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2025
Good afternoon. I’m happy to be with you today. it’s good to see so many friends and family here. We were privileged to serve in the Nauvoo Illinois mission. Actually, the mission was called the Illinois Historic Sites Mission and it included Nauvoo and Carthage.
Above: The Nauvoo costumes worn at their mission homecoming sacrament meeting October 26, 2025
The Pioneer outfit that I’m wearing today was our missionary attire, which we wore every day, except if we were serving in the Visitors’ Center and wore Sunday dress or at the Brickyard where we wore work clothes as we created 150 bricks each time that we served there.
We had to learn 28 tours of homes and shops of the Pioneer Saints that lived in Nauvoo during 1839 to 1847. The Lucy Mack Smith home was our second home to give tours in our first week. She is, of course, the mother of the Prophet Joseph Smith. My parents served in this exact home 45 years earlier. They served for 2 and ½ years, retelling the Lucy Mack Smith story.
The first tour I gave in this home I was overcome with emotions and could not speak. Finally, my husband, Elder Hunt, stepped in and said, “I think I know why my wife can’t speak, her parents served here 45 years ago.” Elder Hunt ended up giving most of the tour.
Elder E.H. and Sister Verna Belcher serving their mission in the Lucy Mack Smith home in Nauvoo (1979 to 1981)
Above: Sister Verna Belcher as Lucy Mack Smith
Above: Sister Lou Hunt posing as her mother, Verna Belcher, 45 years before.
It was pouring rain that day and we had 2 separate groups each made up of 5 Mission Presidents and their wives. They were in Nauvoo to receive training. They were wet from the rain and dressed in their nice Sunday clothes. Talk about feeling a little intimidated, I was! I began sharing the story of Lucy Mack Smith and was crying as I told her story and read her testimony.
Lucy dedicated her life to remembering and honoring her sons Joseph and Hyrum. Just a few months after they were killed, she began working on a history of her family to stand as a testimony of Joseph’s prophetic calling. quoting her she said,
“…I shall leave the world to judge concerning what I have written as seemeth them good. But this much I will say, that the testimony which I have given, is true; and will stand for ever. And the same will be my testimony in the day of God Almighty…” {End of quote).
I apologized more than once for being overcome with emotion. One of the Mission Presidents thanked me for the spirit that he felt as I told Lucy’s story. I thought to myself this is going to be a long day if I cry through every tour.
The restored homes and shops testify of the Saints that lived in them and of their faith in the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ. Take for example the story of George C. Riser that we shared at the Riser Boot Shop. Before he joined the church he said, “Up to this time I had many entreaties to join the various religious sects, but I did not understand that they were right. My mind was not satisfied and I made up my mind to travel the world over to learn what I could & try and fill an aching void in my mind.”
Above: Elder Kevin and Sister Lou (on P-day) with grandsons at the Riser Boot Shop in Nauvoo
George Riser had a shoe shop in Ohio. He hired an apprentice to help in his shop. Ebenezer Kerr was a Mormon but George said of him, “He was not as good of a Mormon as he was a shoe maker.” Nevertheless Ebenezer became the means by which George eventually moved to Nauvoo and joined the church.
After hearing about the persecution of the church in Missouri, Riser was integrated enough to investigate further, he sold his business and relocated to Nauvoo where he heard the prophet Joseph Smith preach, convincing him of the truthfulness of the gospel. He was also influenced by a miraculous healing of his young child, John, by the Prophet, George and his wife Christiana were baptized, cutting a hole in the frozen Mississippi river on December 12, 1842.
Above: George Riser (Nauvoo Pioneer) Photo
Can you imagine the faith of the Riser’s strong conviction in the Lord Jesus Christ to be baptized in the icy Mississippi river. What faith!
Telling and retelling the stories of these faithful Saints has strengthened my own testimony The Saints were pushed out of their homes in Kirtland, Missouri, and Nauvoo. Such faith to keep pushing forward. I tried to imagine if I could have kept going forward in the faith of the Gospel with so much persecution.
We had the privilege being a part of a reenactment of the Exodus of the Saints last February in the bitter cold, walking through town and following the Trail of Hope where the Saints left to go west into the unknown future – making their way across the frozen Mississippi river. When we arrived at the river it was frozen just as it was for the Saints in 1846. I tried to imagine what it must have felt like.
Above: Elder and Sister Hunt at frozen Mississippi River at Parley Street Crossing – February 1, 2025
The Saints were given a list of needed supplies to take on their trip west. This was called the “Bill of Particulars”. The list called for a wagon to be full of supplies – things like 1000 pounds of flour, 200 pounds of sugar, 1 bushel of beans, 20 pounds of soap, seeds to plant gardens, cooking utensils, pots, pans, etc..
The pioneer wagons were pulled by 2 or more oxen weighting 2000 pounds each and the weight of the wagon over-flowing with all needed supplies. Would I have the faith that the ice would hold as we crossed? I tried to imagine getting to the other side and wondering if I could ever get warm again. The Saints had such un-wavering faith to push forward. This experience strengthened my faith. The Saints did hard things and I also know I can do hard things, as I dedicate my life to the Lord and His restored Gospel. My trials seemed nothing compared to the early Saints.
The men were sent on missions to England and other faraway places. Many of the men were gone for 3 years. Leaving their wives and children to manage without them. Brigham Young held meetings in the 70’s Hall and from the pulpit he would call upon multitudes of men to serve missions without much notice.
We had 70 young Sisters serving in Nauvoo. I felt honored to witness the young Sisters getting called to a 6 month outbound mission from the same 70’s Hall. From outside the Hall we could hear the Sisters screaming with excitement to go and serve in whatever state they were called. This was so great to see their excitement to serve.
Above: Nauvoo 70’s Hall – scene of “Outbound Mission Calls” for Young Sister Missionaries
There are many things to tell about Nauvoo. The “Nauvoo miracles”, as we called them happened daily. The following is one of them.
Our mission President, President and Sister Mehr, whom we loved dearly – approached us last May 2024 – soon after our arrival in Nauvoo. They told us the church was going to change the design of the souvenir brick. They knew my father, Elder E. H. Belcher had created the first design and they wanted us to have the opportunity to create the next brick design and to carry on the family legacy. My husband and I went to work taking pictures of the Temple and the statues located across the street from the Temple of Joseph and Hyrum riding horseback.
My daughter Kaylea and her husband JD helped us create 9 designs on the computer for the new brick. Our son Keith is an engineer. He was able to take the Temple design which the church finally picked, and put it into a CAD file that enabled the company in Quincy, to create the mold for the new brick. On March 9th, 2025 – on my Dad’s Birthday – we pulled the first new Temple brick out of the kiln. It was a miracle how it all came together.
Just about 2 weeks before finishing our mission the new Temple brick was made available to Nauvoo guests. We were so excited! I feel honored that I was able to carry on my Mom and Dad’s legacy. God knows where we need to be! President Mehr said “It was no accident that you were called to serve in Nauvoo at this time.”
Above: Sister Lou Hunt cleaning Nauvoo Mansion House of Joseph and Emma Smith
One of our mission tasks was to be the coordinators of the newly acquired Joseph Smith properties. I felt honored to clean the homes of Joseph and Emma Smith each week during the winter months. I felt their spirits as I imagined Emma cooking over her fireplace. I imagined Joseph and Emma saying their last goodbyes as Joseph headed to Carthage to be killed by mobs. Joseph Smith was a martyr who sealed his testimony with his own blood. He was a Prophet of God that I know to be true. My testimony has been strengthened as we learned about the Saints and their sacrifices. I feel honored for being given the privilege to serve in Nauvoo.
Above: Elder and Sister Hunt at Nauvoo Temple
We loved going to the temple almost weekly. The temple is a beacon on the hill and can be seen from virtually every point in lower Nauvoo. It is the most amazing Temple! I stood in constant amazement of this magnificent building – especially for that time period – and wondered how they could have created it.
Nauvoo is a special place with a special spirit. Everyone should take the opportunity to visit. Another Nauvoo miracle for us was having our children come to visit Nauvoo as we were there.
The summer before our mission, we went to Nauvoo for several days with our daughter Jenae – then of St. Louis.
After many beautiful experiences together, she said, “You guys have to get all of “the siblings” to Nauvoo.” She suggested that we should somehow arrange trips with each of them and us over the next few years.” We did not then know that we would be called a few months later to Nauvoo.
Above: Kevin and Lou Hunt in Nauvoo 2023 – Where we set a goal to get all of our children to Nauvoo with us
I feel grateful that my children and grandchildren took the opportunity to experience the spirit of Nauvoo. It was a blessing to be with them. They now have a better understanding of the Saints and their sacrifices. We had a family gathering yesterday and the family shared their experiences they felt in Nauvoo. They each felt the spirit of their ancestors and of the Saints who lived in Nauvoo. They also felt the power of the Restoration of the Gospel and of Joseph Smith as the Prophet of God.
My own testimony …
“NAUVOO MISSION EXPERIENCES AND MEMORIES”
By Kevin V. Hunt
MISSION HOMECOMING TALK PRESENTED IN THE PACANA PARK WARD SUNDAY, OCTOBER 26TH, 2025
Greetings! This is a grand experience to be here with you in our home ward. It is a great blessing to have been able to serve a mission in Nauvoo and now to return home for a season.
Above: The gathered family of Kevin and Lou Hunt (19 posterity not pictured)
It is amazing and wonderful to be joined today by so many of our friends and family who have come to be with us. Thank you for your support. I felt each day that we were serving for our children and grandchildren. We really did serve for them – for you – and I think that they felt special feelings and blessings because of our service. We also felt of their support each day. It was amazing to know and feel the power and faith of all of our children and grandchildren whom we knew were praying for us in their own family and personal prayers each day. There is strength in family and God heard and answered your prayers. He did bless us and we felt Him in our lives with you each day. Thank you!
As we met with Bishop Scoresby after our mission we talked of this meeting gathering today. He said, “I don’t care what you talk about … just so that it is Christ-centered.”
Everyone whom we met in Nauvoo talked of the “special spirit” that is there. It is real. It is everywhere. It is so special. Even people not of our faith could feel it. Many people commented on the Nauvoo Spirit. That Nauvoo Spirit really was Jesus Christ and the entire Godhead strongly present and guiding everything that happened. God the Father and Jesus Christ guided us and all of our guests – putting us together in special circumstances so that we could touch the hearts of those who came. We rejoiced in the “Nauvoo Miracles” as we called them. We experienced these miracles continuously and almost every day as we served. We were able to share the Light of Christ with many people. We know that Jesus Christ was with us. We felt His presence as He and They directed the affairs and personalized faith promoting experiences that became the Nauvoo Miracles for us and all who came to be with us. The Lord definitely brought us together with our guests.
As we were soon to depart the mission, our Mission President, President Daniel S. Mehr (who by the way with his wife was fabulous) had us stand in our Sunday meeting. He talked of Sister Hunt and me and how the Lord had brought us specifically to Nauvoo at this time. He noted that it was God who orchestrated everything for us – and for the benefit of others. He mentioned how I had served for many months in Nauvoo as a part of my original youth mission. And here I was back again … I mean how many missionaries get to return to serve again in their old mission. Wow! And this time with my own companion. It was a great honor and blessing to serve together with her. We made a good team – having God, Christ, and the Holy Ghost with us.
President Mehr also mentioned the Nauvoo heritage of Sister Hunt through her father, the Nauvoo Brickmaker. He said that she was brought to Nauvoo to carry on the Belcher family heritage through the development of the new Nauvoo Temple Brick. President Mehr said that our God loves to orchestrate such amazing and beautiful circumstances for the blessing of us and all of His children.
Serving a mission in Nauvoo was the greatest possible missionary experience. Everyone wants to go on a mission to Nauvoo. We did not specify or request on our initial application a desire to serve in Nauvoo. We were willing to serve anywhere and for as long as might be needed. As I departed for the mission I spoke at this pulpit about my own mother and step-father. They thought that they had all of the t’s crossed and I’s dotted to go to Nauvoo and they got called instead to teach institute in the bush of Toowoomba, Australia. So, we serve where we are needed and called. It soon became evident to us that God knew us specifically and wanted us in Nauvoo. He knew that we had talents and abilities that He could use to bless the lives of others.
I had been in Alabama, Flawda and Jawja but was called on special assignment with 20 other young Elders to Nauvoo. I spent the last six months of my mission there. Wow! What a tremendous blessing. Having previously served in Nauvoo “50 Years ago” (1975) was a blessing to me and our guests every day. I was able to speak with the Spirit of the past and the current moment – bringing both together for the benefit of our guests.
I felt strongly the power of the Holy Ghost each and every day and knew that He was guiding and inspiring me through His divine guidance and as I received specific revelation on many projects that we were able to create together. I received this revelation that guided my use of numerous Spiritual Gifts given to me of the Spirit. I felt His guidance, power and strength as I wrote blog articles and many history books about Nauvoo and shared them with others. I know that I was guided to write for the benefit of others. I felt that I was an instrument in His hands through the Gifts that He gave to me. I wrote way beyond my own capacities and I gratefully acknowledge Him in His direction. What author – no matter how good they are can alone write 70 historic blogs and 20 full books in an 18-month period? The Holy Ghost definitely guided my pen and my computer writing and I am thankful that I could become greater than myself through Him.
One of my first Nauvoo experiences with the Holy Ghost is very memorable.
As we were driving from the Utah MTC to Nauvoo, we received an e-mail message that gave us instruction that we were to serve in the Lucy Mack Smith home. Seriously? We thought that we would serve our full mission there (just as Lou’s parents did for two and a half years back in 1979-1981). Elder and Sister Belcher did not get moved to other sites. We thought this might be the case with us. We later learned that as “Site Missionaries” we would need to know all of the 28 tours of the Nauvoo’s historic homes and shops and that we would be moved around through them. In every week, we served in six different homes and had to know the messages for each.
Anyway, for our first day and tours, we had prepared to teach about Lucy Mack Smith, the mother of the Prophet Joseph Smith. We studied and felt that we were prepared to teach for her and her home.
Then came our first day to serve in the site. We were excited and anxious for the opportunity. And then at the last minute, we received a surprise call. We were not to serve that day at the Lucy Mack Smith home, but instead, were to serve at the Jonathan Browning home and gun shop with Elder and Sister Turner. We had been given no guidance, or shadow training by anyone. (And I note that the system is now much better. Each arriving missionary is given shadow guidance and training for several days before giving their own tours). Such was not the case with us. We were given nothing except the “Site Guide” and the Spirit.
We reported for duty with no real advance preparation, practice or knowledge of Jonathan Browning and we had just a few minutes with the Turners. They were soon off together with our first tour group of the day. They were about half-way through their tour when another big group of guests came in the front door wanting a tour. The Turners kind of went into a panic – trying to figure out what to do and how to handle both groups.
I surprised them as I said, “No worries … I’ve got this!” They got this really shocked look on their faces, showing, “Yeah, how is that possible?” but they let me go for it.
Anyway, it was then that the Spirit took over. The Browning home was one of the eight tours that I knew and presented as a young missionary. And in that moment, that entire tour of 50 years ago was brought back to my remembrance by the Spirit. The words flowed into my mind and I was able to present the whole tour. (The 1975 and 2024 tours were almost identical per the scripts.) It was an amazing miracle for me (and the Turners) and for our guests – though they did not know “the rest of the story”. I acknowledged with gratitude the power of the Holy Ghost on that special occasion. Wow!
Above: Jonathan Browning – Gun Inventor
And speaking of Jonathan Browning … he was very accomplished as an inventor and gunsmith. Many guests came for his tour not realizing that this great man was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It was special to share with them what Jonathan himself said: “The greatest accomplishment of my life was joining the Church and having my posterity active and participating in it.” I also enjoyed sharing with guests one of Browning’s life themes. Even on his guns, he put a plate which said, “Holiness to the Lord … our Preservation” (from the Old Testament scripture in the book of Zephaniah). And it was so much a part of his life that he put it on a gun no less … our preservation!
I often told people that I was doing exactly the same thing in 1975 as I now was doing in 2024 and 2025. “I was then and now am a site missionary.” I said that “we then had 8 home tours and now we have 28.” I quipped that “the only difference was that back then I wore a white shirt and tie and I now wear (or wore) pioneer costumes every day.” I loved the costume look and being able to more fully portray the lives of those faithful pioneers.
Above: Elders Craig Shaltes and Kevin Hunt in Nauvoo 1975
When a young buck missionary, I went around and took photos of all of the historic homes of Nauvoo. I made an effort then to learn as much as possible about the homes that were still standing (a hundred and thirty years later). When I returned to Nauvoo in 2024, I did the same thing. I returned to each of these places and again took photos.
Above: Home of William Weeks Architect of the Nauvoo Temple – photo taken 1975
Above: Home of William Weeks as shown in 2025 after previous restoration
I was able to publish a book showing and comparing then and now and the effects of Nauvoo Restoration over the years.
One major change from then and now was the Temple. When I was there previously, the Temple lot was there but was pretty sparse. It had only a few stones around the outside perimeter of the Temple, the baptism font location and the spiral staircases. We took people there and tried to help them envision the grand structure that had once stood there. This took a lot of imagination on their parts.
Above: Nauvoo Temple Lot as seen in 1975
Now as I returned to Nauvoo, the grand and magnificent structure had been rebuilt. It was rebuilt in 2002 under the direction of then President Gordon B. Hinckley.
In the tour of the home of William Weeks, the architect of the Nauvoo Temple, we told of Weeks and how he and the Prophet Joseph worked together on the Temple design. Weeks, as an architect had some definite ideas – based on past experience and trends of the day. Joseph’s vision for the Temple did not always match those of Weeks.
Joseph felt strongly that the Temple should have round windows. This did not meet with Weeks architectural views. Joseph Said, “I wish you to carry out my designs. I have seen in vision that glorious building illuminated and will have it built according to the pattern shown me.” How cool! Joseph taught Brother Weeks that he had a vision for the Temple and that it needed to be built according to the plan that Jesus Christ had shown to him. (This was just as the Lord himself, a carpenter, had taught the Brother of Jared and Nephi how to build ships.) And I loved sharing this with our guests. The Temple was built with the round windows.
Above: Nauvoo Temple with Round Windows (shown at center)
And I loved the part about the illumination. In Joseph’s time, the lighting of that day was by candles. Candle power alone could scarcely have lit the inside and certainly could not have illuminated the exterior of the Temple. I think that Joseph saw our day … and well beyond his own day. He did not even get to see the Temple construction finished – but it was built according to the vision he had seen. And today it stands in grand illumination each night.
Above: The Nauvoo Temple Illuminated
Also in the Weeks tour we shared the story of how Weeks later in Salt Lake City took a turn away from the Church and lived the rest of his life in California. His posterity grew up without the influence of the Church. Around 1948 Weeks’ grandson, Leslie Griffiths, then a non-member, became friends with some missionaries. One of the Elders was about to return home at the end of his mission. The Weeks grandson said, “Wait … I have something for you.” He went up into his attic and returned with a large roll of paper – about 8” round and 3’ long. These were the original plans for the Nauvoo Temple. Following instruction by Leslie, the missionary accepted the challenge, took the papers and with them knocked on the door of the First Presidency in Salt Lake City. One can only imagine their surprise at the gift presented by the Elder.
And with Weeks’ original plans, the Church in 2002 was able to duplicate the new temple to be very much like the old. The footprint and the exterior of the building are almost identical in size and material. The inside, however, had to be changed dramatically to accommodate the modern systems of plumbing, electrical, elevators, etc. This was all a great miracle as guided by the Lord Jesus Christ. Truly a major “Nauvoo Miracle”.
Above: Nauvoo Temple on the Hill above the community
The Nauvoo Temple stands majestically today on a hill overlooking the community below. It is visible almost everywhere on the lower area of town where our restored homes and shops are located. The pioneer Saints were able to see the Temple and watch with front-row seats its construction. And each man was asked to dedicate a tenth of his time for the construction. Each of Nauvoo’s ten wards were assigned specific days for their members to work and donate to the construction.
I liked the words and teachings of one of our guests. After leaving our tour this mother said that she planned next to take her children up to “touch the Temple”. What a great concept and guidance of the Spirit. And that is a lesson for each of us … to touch the temple – but also to let it touch us.
As Sister Hunt said, it was a special blessing for us to be able to go to the Temple often. And it was truly amazing that we could drive to it within five minutes or less from our home. Wow! This was a great blessing for us to be touched by the covenants made there with Jesus Christ. My vision of the Temple was expanded within me and my understanding of it grew within my soul.
As with all Nauvoo missionaries, the Lord used and expanded our capabilities to bless the lives of others. After each tour I wrote on one of my trusty 3×5” cards, the numbers in the tour – and sometimes special experiences and Nauvoo Miracles evident in the tours. Then at the end of each day, I recorded in a spreadsheet the tour numbers and also recorded the numbers and thoughts in my personal journal. This took me only a short time each day but at the end of the mission, I had a full record. And the record showed that just in the tours of Sister Hunt and me, we personally took through 19,625 guests. Imagine that … 19,625 people. Wow! So unbelievable and wonderful. I wish that we could see the end result of those connections. Maybe someday we will.
With my affinity to family history and history in general, I was able to contribute to the Lord’s Nauvoo kingdom in special ways. I created and presented 5 presentations on family history, journals, personal and family histories.
I composed books about our own Nauvoo ancestors. In one book I detailed the lives of my own 32 direct-line ancestors who were in Nauvoo. Another book detailed the 20 direct ancestors of Sister Hunt. I often taught people how to use “Find My Relatives” and it was truly amazing how many third and fourth cousins that I connected with. Perhaps you read in the “Church News” back in November of three of us Hunt cousins who all got to serve together in Nauvoo.
Above: Three Cousins – Elders and Sisters (L to R) Lou and Kevin Hunt, Sandy and Jake Hunt, and Tammy and Brad Hunt
We had unknown strangers to us approach us months later saying, “We remember reading about you in the “Church News”.
I also enlightened hundreds of guests – to their great joy – how to use the fun “Find My Nauvoo Relative” phone app. I taught them how to find their Nauvoo pioneer relatives and the property that they owned so that they could go check out the property themselves. And I can do the same for any of you who might have the interest (even here away from Nauvoo).
We were appointed as the Mission historians. Each month we created a comprehensive history of events, training meetings, and activities within the mission. This newsletter was greatly enjoyed and appreciated by our fellow missionaries. And at the end of last year and again at the end of this year we did and will create a composite of those monthly histories into a full year history to be made available and published for the missionaries. And each annual history is submitted to the Church History Department for permanent storage in the records of heaven. I am glad that our records will be a part of “The Book of the Law of the Lord” as we taught of in Joseph’s Red Brick Store.
In this role as Mission Historians, we were able to go with the Mission President and wife as they took the young sisters on what he called “Church History Immersion Trips”. We went on multiple of these trips. Sister Hunt was the photographer and I took copious notes everywhere. I later was able to publish four books about the Church history sites in Missouri, Nauvoo, Iowa and westward.
I studied the life of the Prophet Joseph Smith and was able to compile books about his life, his ministry, and his many burial sites. I was able to document historic monuments and markers in and around Nauvoo. I was able to document the history of brick making in old Nauvoo connecting Elder Belcher brick making and then the miracles of the new Temple Brick development of which we were privileged to play a major role – along with our children, Kaylea and JD, and Keith.
While serving in the Stoddard Tin shop, we showed a very bad photo of the place before restoration. I said, “I can do better than that!” I opened up my Nauvoo mission slides from 1975 – and which grandson, Brodey and I had digitized just before our mission. I found a much better photo of the Stoddard home and printed this and my photo was used by all other missionaries.
With my experience with history, Nauvoo, and the Saints, I was able to help and serve others in ways that likely no other missionary could have. We were where the Lord needed us and we were pleased to be the Nauvoo miracle for many others. This was such a great experience and opportunity.
As I reflect back upon my writing, our mission in general (and today’s talk) , I feel like Mormon, the great historian and compiler of the Book of Mormon as he said in 3 Nephi 5:8: “And there had many things transpired which, in the eyes of some, would be great and marvelous, nevertheless, they cannot all be written in this book: yea, this book (and this talk) cannot contain even a hundredth part of what was done among so many people [us and our mission] in the space of [eighteen months].” And paraphrasing Mormon in verse 9, “But behold there are records which do contain all the proceedings of Elder and Sister Hunt while serving in Nauvoo as Site Missionaries.”
Being in and serving in Nauvoo was one of the greatest times of our lives. It was so wonderful to be there and to experience the influence of Jesus Christ, God and the Holy Ghost each day through Their Nauvoo Miracles. It was such a blessing to have had such a wonderful companion and being and serving there together.
We felt the love of our Savior and were so grateful for the opportunity to serve in this sacred and holy place. I felt the presence and feelings of many of the early prophets as well as our own special ancestors who likewise walked the streets, lived, and sacrificed in faith that we might enjoy the freedoms and joy of the Gospel in our lives.
I like the words of the Prophet John Taylor as he testified of the Prophet Joseph Smith 10 years after the Martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum. He said, “Joseph Smith was a Prophet of God. I do not think it … I know it!” One prophet testifying of another … I also testify of Joseph the Prophet and the work of our God in Nauvoo. I am also grateful to my own ancestors and the Nauvoo legacy of faith that they passed on to me and to our family.
Nauvoo comes alive each summer with the many Nauvoo Performing Missionaries and their many performances. The Nauvoo and British Pageants draw big crowds. It is so exciting to experience the energy, the faith, the testimony and the spirit that these many performers bring to Nauvoo.
This blog article highlights many of those performing groups.
Yes, these performances and performers do so much to share the Light of Christ here in Nauvoo. They add much to the spirit of old Nauvoo.
Nauvoo, Historic Nauvoo, Senior Mission Couple, Historic Sites, Missionary, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day SaintS
On the Nauvoo Trail 