In reading about the Mormon pioneers, I ran across an interesting story. Lorenzo Snow, who would later serve as President of the Church, was put in charge of a group of pioneers. Food was running low; children cried as they were put to bed hungry. Sickness had swept its way through the camp, claiming many lives. Spirits were low.
Elder Snow recognized that the people in his charge needed to keep their spirits up. With that in mind, he organized the building of a log meeting house. There, the pioneers performed for each other, providing recitations, singing, and other wholesome entertainment. However, the building was dark and caused Elder Snow and other leaders to ponder over how to provide lighting.
Inspiration came in the form of turnips. The most evenly shaped turnips were chosen, hollowed out, then fitted with small candles. These improvised candle holders were then hung on the walls of the building.
So, for today, I am grateful for turnips ... and for the ingenuity of pioneer ancestors.
I've never heard the turnip story before. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteWhat a neat story, one that I haven't heard before.
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