A Life of Perseverance and Pioneer Spirit: Thomas Hand Reid
On July 7, 1826, in the picturesque landscapes of Scotland, Thomas Hand Reid came into the world, destined to live a life marked by resilience, faith, and unwavering dedication. His journey, one of hardships and triumphs, weaves a tapestry of commitment to family and a pioneering spirit that continues to inspire generations.
From Scotland to England:
At the age of 23, Thomas Hand Reid embarked on a transformative journey. Leaving his native Scotland, he ventured to England, where destiny intersected with faith. It was in England that he encountered the gospel, and on December 23, 1849, he embraced the faith of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints through baptism. Just two years later, he was ordained a priest and appointed as the president of a branch, setting the stage for a life dedicated to service.
A Journey to Zion:
Embracing the call of Zion, Thomas Hand Reid joined 333 other saints on a voyage via New Orleans to Utah. A pioneer’s heart beat within him as he crossed the plains, driving yokes of oxen and hauling sugar for the church. His spirit of dedication and hard work was a beacon of inspiration to all who journeyed alongside him.
A Union of Hearts:
In Salt Lake City, fate introduced Thomas to Ann McFarland. The two kindred spirits were united in marriage on February 9, 1854. Their love story flourished amidst the backdrop of pioneering efforts and the establishment of a new life in the west.
Settling in Beaver:
Called to help settle Beaver, Thomas and Ann answered the call with courage. They made the journey with two small children and a heart full of hope. Four more children were born to them in Beaver, a testament to their enduring commitment to their family and community.
Life’s Challenges:
Life’s challenges tested Thomas’s resolve and spirit. His feet were frozen, and he had no access to medical care. Undaunted, he took matters into his own hands, using his pocket knife to amputate his toes. With sheer determination, he knelt to plow and plant his crops, showcasing his unyielding determination.
A Journey of Resilience:
Over the years, Thomas and Ann’s journey took them to different places. They resided in Salt Lake City for two decades, then moved to Woodland, followed by a period in Old Mexico. Eventually, they settled in Hanna, Utah, where they continued to till the soil and tend to their garden, a testament to their enduring pioneer spirit.
A Final Chapter:
Thomas’s remarkable journey came to a close on May 7, 1922, at the age of 94. His life, marked by grit and unwavering determination, left an indelible mark on those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Ann McFarland: A Pioneer Heart:
Ann McFarland’s journey was a tapestry of dedication and faith. Born in Stirling, Scotland, on February 6, 1835, she grew up in a family touched by the gospel’s embrace. The influence of missionaries led to her baptism at the age of 11, forging a path of devotion that would shape her life.
A Life of Trials:
Ann’s journey was marked by both triumphs and trials. Her father’s untimely passing left her family to fend for themselves, a testament to their strength and resilience. With faith as their guide, the family embraced the gospel and made their way to the Salt Lake Valley.
The Pioneer Spirit:
Ann’s voyage to America aboard the ship Ellen Marie was a remarkable chapter in her life. As a member of the first group of Perpetual Emigrating Fund pioneers, she set foot in the Salt Lake Valley on September 3, 1852. Her courage and determination were echoed in the hearts of all pioneers who sought a better life in the west.
A Heart of Sacrifice:
Ann’s marriage to Thomas Hand Reid was a union of kindred souls. Together, they settled in Bountiful and later moved to Beaver. Tragedy struck when she passed away at the age of 32, leaving behind a legacy of love, sacrifice, and an unyielding commitment to family.
A Tapestry of Legacy:
The lives of Thomas Hand Reid and Ann McFarland stand as beacons of hope and inspiration. Their journeys, though marked by trials, were driven by an unwavering faith and a pioneering spirit that continues to resonate through generations. Their stories are a testament to the power of resilience, love, and dedication in the face of life’s challenges.
