Daughter of George Francis Newland and Amelia Knight
Married William Henry Foster, 15 November 1869, Salt Lake City, Salt Lake, Utah
Children - Eleanor N Foster, Lucy May Foster, George Francis Foster, Oscar Newland Foster, Lillie May Foster, Emily Nora Foster
History - Retyped here from a copy in the files of Darrell R Eddington, a great grandnephew.
In the pleasant Thames Valley and the region south of it, we find some of England's most picturesque scenery. Here are the green meadows and hedgerow-bordered fields, where villages of quaint thatched cottages are nestled among stately manor houses. If you should continue southward, skirting the beautiful southern coast, you enter Hampshire, with the Isle of Wight lying off its harbor of Southhampton, and the great naval station of Portsmouth. It was in this historic setting at Kingstown Cross, near the great seaport of Portsmouth, that Eliza Newland was born on September 15, 1850. She was one of six daughters and one son of the family of George Francis Newland Sr. and Amelia Knight.
Both her parents were natives of this beautiful country, Hampshire. Her mother was born in Denmead, England on January 20, 1820. Her father's birthplace was just twenty miles from London at Windsor on January 4, 1814. This is one of England's oldest towns with the castle the chief point of interest. Windsor, which means "winding shore" was founded by William the Conqueror as a hunting post. The view from the old castle across the winding Thames [River] is one of enchantment. The gray antique towers and picturesque ivy-covered buildings of the old town vie with the famous old castle where King Arthur once had his Round Table. There is much of historic interest in the ancestral birthplace of Eliza Newland and that of her parents--being old in time and rich in legend.
Amid such surroundings where the daily life of the simple English folk moved serenely and undisturbed, Eliza was reared to girlhood. That her people were religiously inclined, especially her mother, we know from the influence the Elders of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints brought to bear upon them. During the 1850's the Mormon Elders were active in various parts of England. No doubt her mother read the literature of their tracts as well as listened to them and became converted. Once she had embraced the Gospel she could not be shaken, and her one desire was to gather with the Saints in Utah. She had her children baptized at the same time she was baptized.
At sometime during the years from 1860 to 1863, through her careful planning and industry, she saved sufficient money to send an older daughter, [Emma] to Utah. Then in the year 1863 she made preparations to emigrate Eliza. By the 30th of May 1864, the sailing vessel "Hudson" was ready to carry a group or company of converts to America. Eliza was then nearing her fourteenth birthday.
On June 2, 1864, anchor was weighed, a pilot boat towed them down the Thames River and into the English Channel--then the "Hudson" was left to make the journey on her own across the Atlantic to New York City.
It was hard to part with kindred and friends, and many a tear was shed as the shore line of their native land, England, gradually faded from view. To Eliza, barely in her teens and among strangers, it was indeed a trial. In after years to recall that voyage to mind was to relive the nausea of both homesickness and sea sickness.
It was an interesting sight to view an emigrant vessel. On the "Hudson" were 900 Latter-day Saints. [Including Ann Toomer Fry Littlefield and her six young children--all registered under the name of "Fry" rather than "Littlefield" for fear her second husband, William Littlefield, would try to stop them all from leaving England. Her first husband, John Fry, had been lost at Sea and the three children from that Union had sailed previously to America] There were English, Scotch, Welch, Irish, Danish, and others on board.
The Saints went steerage which meant they descended through a trap door to quarters below deck. Their berths were large shelves securely fastened to the ship's sides. Their trunks and belongings must be fastened firmly down to overcome the ship's motion when at sea. Also in the hold were great long tables where all the emigrants sat to eat their meals, that is those who were able to eat. The fare consisted mainly of salt beef, salt pork, rice and hard tack or ship's biscuits. None of the fare was enticing. It was almost necessary to break the biscuits open with a hammer. Each person was given a linen bag to hold these items, and at a specified time, they were to be at the commissary to receive the allotment of fresh water, etc.
Under such conditions strict discipline was necessary. John M. Kay was president over the company of saints on the Hudson. He was assisted by George Holladay, John L. Smith, and Matthew McDune. Prayers were maintained night and morning; meetings were held on deck every night, and all lights out by nine o'clock p.m.
The voyage was made without incident except the occasional sighting of an ocean liner or some other sailing vessel. Then, perhaps, the blurting of a whale would break the monotony. Once during the forty odd days at sea they were battened down during a storm which caused the boat to pitch and roll considerably. As they neared the shores of the United States, a confederate gunboat hailed them for inspection as the Civil War was on then.
The emigrants, cramped and huddled down like animals, had their sorrows along with their happier moments. Measles broke out among them. Nine little children succumbed. Each corpse was wrapped in a blanket and sadly lowered into a watery grave. And three babies, two boys and one girl, were born at sea.
It was early in the morning of July 16th that the shoreline of America was sighted. It was one experience never to be forgotten. In a few short hours a pilot [boat] had them towed safely into the harbor of New York. Here they were interviewed by the Customs Officers and placed in the "Castle Garden".
Ellis Island, used by the Federal Government, was a landing place for immigrants. At the entrance of the East River were the old Dutch Fortifications. The round fort was the assembly hall where the immigrants were herded to await admittance into the United States. This was known as Castle Gardens, but during the years when thousands of immigrants were arriving yearly, it belied its name. The place was not only rat-infested but the immigrants themselves were covered with body lice and stinking from the odor of the overcrowded ship's hold.
Years after, Eliza often told her children how her beautiful black lustrous hair came to near ruin through the drastic treatment to rid her of these parasites.
As soon as a company with freight could be located, the immigrants were loaded on railroad cars. The cars were neither clean nor comfortable. Most of them were box cars or those in which cattle were loaded. Delays of all kinds were met due to the Civil War. Bridges and railroad tracks were torn out by Confederate armies. Finally at Saint Joseph [Missouri], they were placed on a Missouri River boat which carried them to Winter Quarters, Nebraska, on August 6, 1864.
For two more weeks they lived in a little brush shelter awaiting preparations for the journey over the plains. Two companies were made up with Captain Rawlings in charge of one and Warren S Snow the other. Eliza was with Captain Snow's company, and to lighten the load, she walked barefoot much of the way.
Due to a scarcity of food for their oxen and cattle, Captain Snow took a different route than the other company. Some days they traveled only two hours and the journey was wearisome and hard. Finally, President Brigham Young sent supplies of food and clothing out to this company and assisted them to reach Salt Lake. All had suffered from cold and exposure as they had encountered early snow. From Winter Quarters to their arrival at the 8th Ward square where the City and County Building now stands, on November 2, 1864, their journey required three months.
The beloved president of the company on the ship "Hudson", John M. Kay, died on the plains. They made a rough box and dug a hole for burial beside the trail. Brother Kay and George Careless had cheered and comforted the saints throughout the voyage and the journey over the plains, with their sweet music.
It was while on the voyage over [from England] that Professor Careless wrote the hymn "The Morning Breaks" to cheer the weary saints. He would have them all singing as they arose in the morning and the same before retiring at night.
It was a cold reception they had upon their arrival at the 8th Ward Square in Salt Lake. They had no relatives or friends to greet them. The company remained together for two days and nights during which time most of them found places of employment. Eliza was taken into the home of a poor shoemaker and his large family in the 8th Ward. Then Eunice Neslen Foster, wife of William Henry Foster, heard of this plucky immigrant girl and took her into their home. Eliza made every effort to locate her sister, Emma, who had arrived previously, No trace was ever found of her, but they established the fact that she had gone south when the move south took place, but her identity became lost. About the year 1866, her young brother, George Francis Newland Jr arrived from England and he made his home for five years in the Foster home with his sister, Eliza.
On August 4, 1871, Eliza's courageous mother, Amelia Knight Newland, and three other sisters, Mary (Polly), Sarah, and Georgina (Gean) arrived in Salt Lake to establish a home -- long-dreamed-of and planned for among the saints. It was indeed a sacrifice on her mother's part, as it meant separation from her husband and one daughter for the rest of her life. From the time of her baptism and that of her children, the father had failed to see or understand the gospel. He could not comprehend how a mother would sacrifice all for its sake. He refused to emigrate to Utah with them, and one daughter remained with him.
The road up for Eliza was not an easy one. The story of every emigrant girl is much the same. By nature she was unselfish and forgiving. She readily adapted herself to her new surroundings. Although in the service of others, she was taught or given some schooling. Her patient way with small children drew forth admiration and respect.
When Eliza was nineteen years of age, the church leaders advised William Henry Foster to accept polygamy and take her as his second wife. They were married on November 16, 1869 in the Endowment House by Daniel H. Wells. For nearly ten years she continued to make her home with the first wife, whom she had always called "Auntie". This home was at 330 South West Temple. Before the birth of her fourth child, her husband had bought land and built her a home on South West Temple, just three blocks away. There were two sons and three daughters born to this union. She reared three to maturity. her eldest daughter and second son died in infancy. Auntie's family consisted of twelve children.
Eliza took an active part in the church. She was a teacher in the Sunday School and an officer in the Primary. In later life, she became an ardent Temple worker.
Making things do, and making the best of things are two of the unfailing recipes for peace of mind. William H. Foster was not only much older than she, but was constantly before the public, both in business and socially. His musical affiliations kept him engaged, not only locally but in all parts of the country and throughout the state. Seldom did Eliza share with him this wide circle of friends. Her world lay within the home and in her quiet unassuming way, she brought joy and happiness to all within the home circle.
If one of Auntie's daughters needed help in time of sickness or trouble, she was there giving her loving service. Together she and the first wife shared in the loss of their beloved husband who died on November 16, 1906. She stood by to comfort the sorrowing daughters and sons, now grown to womanhood and manhood, when the summons came for Auntie.
In her eighty-second year, the sparkle was not dimmed in the grave dark eyes and her black hair was still dark and lustrous. Though life had tested her in many ways, she still found it good. She had lived it fully with a simplicity and sweetness permeating it -- all that marks a noble character. Death came to her on November 3, 1933 at the home of her daughter, Lily May, who had so lovingly cared for her until the end.
Mormon Pioneer Overland Travel, Warren S. Snow Company (1864); Age at departure: 13
Utah Death Certificate
Married William Henry Foster, 15 November 1869, Salt Lake City, Salt Lake, Utah
Children - Eleanor N Foster, Lucy May Foster, George Francis Foster, Oscar Newland Foster, Lillie May Foster, Emily Nora Foster
History - Retyped here from a copy in the files of Darrell R Eddington, a great grandnephew.
In the pleasant Thames Valley and the region south of it, we find some of England's most picturesque scenery. Here are the green meadows and hedgerow-bordered fields, where villages of quaint thatched cottages are nestled among stately manor houses. If you should continue southward, skirting the beautiful southern coast, you enter Hampshire, with the Isle of Wight lying off its harbor of Southhampton, and the great naval station of Portsmouth. It was in this historic setting at Kingstown Cross, near the great seaport of Portsmouth, that Eliza Newland was born on September 15, 1850. She was one of six daughters and one son of the family of George Francis Newland Sr. and Amelia Knight.
Both her parents were natives of this beautiful country, Hampshire. Her mother was born in Denmead, England on January 20, 1820. Her father's birthplace was just twenty miles from London at Windsor on January 4, 1814. This is one of England's oldest towns with the castle the chief point of interest. Windsor, which means "winding shore" was founded by William the Conqueror as a hunting post. The view from the old castle across the winding Thames [River] is one of enchantment. The gray antique towers and picturesque ivy-covered buildings of the old town vie with the famous old castle where King Arthur once had his Round Table. There is much of historic interest in the ancestral birthplace of Eliza Newland and that of her parents--being old in time and rich in legend.
Amid such surroundings where the daily life of the simple English folk moved serenely and undisturbed, Eliza was reared to girlhood. That her people were religiously inclined, especially her mother, we know from the influence the Elders of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints brought to bear upon them. During the 1850's the Mormon Elders were active in various parts of England. No doubt her mother read the literature of their tracts as well as listened to them and became converted. Once she had embraced the Gospel she could not be shaken, and her one desire was to gather with the Saints in Utah. She had her children baptized at the same time she was baptized.
At sometime during the years from 1860 to 1863, through her careful planning and industry, she saved sufficient money to send an older daughter, [Emma] to Utah. Then in the year 1863 she made preparations to emigrate Eliza. By the 30th of May 1864, the sailing vessel "Hudson" was ready to carry a group or company of converts to America. Eliza was then nearing her fourteenth birthday.
On June 2, 1864, anchor was weighed, a pilot boat towed them down the Thames River and into the English Channel--then the "Hudson" was left to make the journey on her own across the Atlantic to New York City.
It was hard to part with kindred and friends, and many a tear was shed as the shore line of their native land, England, gradually faded from view. To Eliza, barely in her teens and among strangers, it was indeed a trial. In after years to recall that voyage to mind was to relive the nausea of both homesickness and sea sickness.
It was an interesting sight to view an emigrant vessel. On the "Hudson" were 900 Latter-day Saints. [Including Ann Toomer Fry Littlefield and her six young children--all registered under the name of "Fry" rather than "Littlefield" for fear her second husband, William Littlefield, would try to stop them all from leaving England. Her first husband, John Fry, had been lost at Sea and the three children from that Union had sailed previously to America] There were English, Scotch, Welch, Irish, Danish, and others on board.
The Saints went steerage which meant they descended through a trap door to quarters below deck. Their berths were large shelves securely fastened to the ship's sides. Their trunks and belongings must be fastened firmly down to overcome the ship's motion when at sea. Also in the hold were great long tables where all the emigrants sat to eat their meals, that is those who were able to eat. The fare consisted mainly of salt beef, salt pork, rice and hard tack or ship's biscuits. None of the fare was enticing. It was almost necessary to break the biscuits open with a hammer. Each person was given a linen bag to hold these items, and at a specified time, they were to be at the commissary to receive the allotment of fresh water, etc.
Under such conditions strict discipline was necessary. John M. Kay was president over the company of saints on the Hudson. He was assisted by George Holladay, John L. Smith, and Matthew McDune. Prayers were maintained night and morning; meetings were held on deck every night, and all lights out by nine o'clock p.m.
The voyage was made without incident except the occasional sighting of an ocean liner or some other sailing vessel. Then, perhaps, the blurting of a whale would break the monotony. Once during the forty odd days at sea they were battened down during a storm which caused the boat to pitch and roll considerably. As they neared the shores of the United States, a confederate gunboat hailed them for inspection as the Civil War was on then.
The emigrants, cramped and huddled down like animals, had their sorrows along with their happier moments. Measles broke out among them. Nine little children succumbed. Each corpse was wrapped in a blanket and sadly lowered into a watery grave. And three babies, two boys and one girl, were born at sea.
It was early in the morning of July 16th that the shoreline of America was sighted. It was one experience never to be forgotten. In a few short hours a pilot [boat] had them towed safely into the harbor of New York. Here they were interviewed by the Customs Officers and placed in the "Castle Garden".
Ellis Island, used by the Federal Government, was a landing place for immigrants. At the entrance of the East River were the old Dutch Fortifications. The round fort was the assembly hall where the immigrants were herded to await admittance into the United States. This was known as Castle Gardens, but during the years when thousands of immigrants were arriving yearly, it belied its name. The place was not only rat-infested but the immigrants themselves were covered with body lice and stinking from the odor of the overcrowded ship's hold.
Years after, Eliza often told her children how her beautiful black lustrous hair came to near ruin through the drastic treatment to rid her of these parasites.
As soon as a company with freight could be located, the immigrants were loaded on railroad cars. The cars were neither clean nor comfortable. Most of them were box cars or those in which cattle were loaded. Delays of all kinds were met due to the Civil War. Bridges and railroad tracks were torn out by Confederate armies. Finally at Saint Joseph [Missouri], they were placed on a Missouri River boat which carried them to Winter Quarters, Nebraska, on August 6, 1864.
For two more weeks they lived in a little brush shelter awaiting preparations for the journey over the plains. Two companies were made up with Captain Rawlings in charge of one and Warren S Snow the other. Eliza was with Captain Snow's company, and to lighten the load, she walked barefoot much of the way.
Due to a scarcity of food for their oxen and cattle, Captain Snow took a different route than the other company. Some days they traveled only two hours and the journey was wearisome and hard. Finally, President Brigham Young sent supplies of food and clothing out to this company and assisted them to reach Salt Lake. All had suffered from cold and exposure as they had encountered early snow. From Winter Quarters to their arrival at the 8th Ward square where the City and County Building now stands, on November 2, 1864, their journey required three months.
The beloved president of the company on the ship "Hudson", John M. Kay, died on the plains. They made a rough box and dug a hole for burial beside the trail. Brother Kay and George Careless had cheered and comforted the saints throughout the voyage and the journey over the plains, with their sweet music.
It was while on the voyage over [from England] that Professor Careless wrote the hymn "The Morning Breaks" to cheer the weary saints. He would have them all singing as they arose in the morning and the same before retiring at night.
It was a cold reception they had upon their arrival at the 8th Ward Square in Salt Lake. They had no relatives or friends to greet them. The company remained together for two days and nights during which time most of them found places of employment. Eliza was taken into the home of a poor shoemaker and his large family in the 8th Ward. Then Eunice Neslen Foster, wife of William Henry Foster, heard of this plucky immigrant girl and took her into their home. Eliza made every effort to locate her sister, Emma, who had arrived previously, No trace was ever found of her, but they established the fact that she had gone south when the move south took place, but her identity became lost. About the year 1866, her young brother, George Francis Newland Jr arrived from England and he made his home for five years in the Foster home with his sister, Eliza.
On August 4, 1871, Eliza's courageous mother, Amelia Knight Newland, and three other sisters, Mary (Polly), Sarah, and Georgina (Gean) arrived in Salt Lake to establish a home -- long-dreamed-of and planned for among the saints. It was indeed a sacrifice on her mother's part, as it meant separation from her husband and one daughter for the rest of her life. From the time of her baptism and that of her children, the father had failed to see or understand the gospel. He could not comprehend how a mother would sacrifice all for its sake. He refused to emigrate to Utah with them, and one daughter remained with him.
The road up for Eliza was not an easy one. The story of every emigrant girl is much the same. By nature she was unselfish and forgiving. She readily adapted herself to her new surroundings. Although in the service of others, she was taught or given some schooling. Her patient way with small children drew forth admiration and respect.
When Eliza was nineteen years of age, the church leaders advised William Henry Foster to accept polygamy and take her as his second wife. They were married on November 16, 1869 in the Endowment House by Daniel H. Wells. For nearly ten years she continued to make her home with the first wife, whom she had always called "Auntie". This home was at 330 South West Temple. Before the birth of her fourth child, her husband had bought land and built her a home on South West Temple, just three blocks away. There were two sons and three daughters born to this union. She reared three to maturity. her eldest daughter and second son died in infancy. Auntie's family consisted of twelve children.
Eliza took an active part in the church. She was a teacher in the Sunday School and an officer in the Primary. In later life, she became an ardent Temple worker.
Making things do, and making the best of things are two of the unfailing recipes for peace of mind. William H. Foster was not only much older than she, but was constantly before the public, both in business and socially. His musical affiliations kept him engaged, not only locally but in all parts of the country and throughout the state. Seldom did Eliza share with him this wide circle of friends. Her world lay within the home and in her quiet unassuming way, she brought joy and happiness to all within the home circle.
If one of Auntie's daughters needed help in time of sickness or trouble, she was there giving her loving service. Together she and the first wife shared in the loss of their beloved husband who died on November 16, 1906. She stood by to comfort the sorrowing daughters and sons, now grown to womanhood and manhood, when the summons came for Auntie.
In her eighty-second year, the sparkle was not dimmed in the grave dark eyes and her black hair was still dark and lustrous. Though life had tested her in many ways, she still found it good. She had lived it fully with a simplicity and sweetness permeating it -- all that marks a noble character. Death came to her on November 3, 1933 at the home of her daughter, Lily May, who had so lovingly cared for her until the end.
Mormon Pioneer Overland Travel, Warren S. Snow Company (1864); Age at departure: 13
Utah Death Certificate
Daughter of George Francis Newland and Amelia Knight
Married William Henry Foster, 15 November 1869, Salt Lake City, Salt Lake, Utah
Children - Eleanor N Foster, Lucy May Foster, George Francis Foster, Oscar Newland Foster, Lillie May Foster, Emily Nora Foster
History - Retyped here from a copy in the files of Darrell R Eddington, a great grandnephew.
In the pleasant Thames Valley and the region south of it, we find some of England's most picturesque scenery. Here are the green meadows and hedgerow-bordered fields, where villages of quaint thatched cottages are nestled among stately manor houses. If you should continue southward, skirting the beautiful southern coast, you enter Hampshire, with the Isle of Wight lying off its harbor of Southhampton, and the great naval station of Portsmouth. It was in this historic setting at Kingstown Cross, near the great seaport of Portsmouth, that Eliza Newland was born on September 15, 1850. She was one of six daughters and one son of the family of George Francis Newland Sr. and Amelia Knight.
Both her parents were natives of this beautiful country, Hampshire. Her mother was born in Denmead, England on January 20, 1820. Her father's birthplace was just twenty miles from London at Windsor on January 4, 1814. This is one of England's oldest towns with the castle the chief point of interest. Windsor, which means "winding shore" was founded by William the Conqueror as a hunting post. The view from the old castle across the winding Thames [River] is one of enchantment. The gray antique towers and picturesque ivy-covered buildings of the old town vie with the famous old castle where King Arthur once had his Round Table. There is much of historic interest in the ancestral birthplace of Eliza Newland and that of her parents--being old in time and rich in legend.
Amid such surroundings where the daily life of the simple English folk moved serenely and undisturbed, Eliza was reared to girlhood. That her people were religiously inclined, especially her mother, we know from the influence the Elders of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints brought to bear upon them. During the 1850's the Mormon Elders were active in various parts of England. No doubt her mother read the literature of their tracts as well as listened to them and became converted. Once she had embraced the Gospel she could not be shaken, and her one desire was to gather with the Saints in Utah. She had her children baptized at the same time she was baptized.
At sometime during the years from 1860 to 1863, through her careful planning and industry, she saved sufficient money to send an older daughter, [Emma] to Utah. Then in the year 1863 she made preparations to emigrate Eliza. By the 30th of May 1864, the sailing vessel "Hudson" was ready to carry a group or company of converts to America. Eliza was then nearing her fourteenth birthday.
On June 2, 1864, anchor was weighed, a pilot boat towed them down the Thames River and into the English Channel--then the "Hudson" was left to make the journey on her own across the Atlantic to New York City.
It was hard to part with kindred and friends, and many a tear was shed as the shore line of their native land, England, gradually faded from view. To Eliza, barely in her teens and among strangers, it was indeed a trial. In after years to recall that voyage to mind was to relive the nausea of both homesickness and sea sickness.
It was an interesting sight to view an emigrant vessel. On the "Hudson" were 900 Latter-day Saints. [Including Ann Toomer Fry Littlefield and her six young children--all registered under the name of "Fry" rather than "Littlefield" for fear her second husband, William Littlefield, would try to stop them all from leaving England. Her first husband, John Fry, had been lost at Sea and the three children from that Union had sailed previously to America] There were English, Scotch, Welch, Irish, Danish, and others on board.
The Saints went steerage which meant they descended through a trap door to quarters below deck. Their berths were large shelves securely fastened to the ship's sides. Their trunks and belongings must be fastened firmly down to overcome the ship's motion when at sea. Also in the hold were great long tables where all the emigrants sat to eat their meals, that is those who were able to eat. The fare consisted mainly of salt beef, salt pork, rice and hard tack or ship's biscuits. None of the fare was enticing. It was almost necessary to break the biscuits open with a hammer. Each person was given a linen bag to hold these items, and at a specified time, they were to be at the commissary to receive the allotment of fresh water, etc.
Under such conditions strict discipline was necessary. John M. Kay was president over the company of saints on the Hudson. He was assisted by George Holladay, John L. Smith, and Matthew McDune. Prayers were maintained night and morning; meetings were held on deck every night, and all lights out by nine o'clock p.m.
The voyage was made without incident except the occasional sighting of an ocean liner or some other sailing vessel. Then, perhaps, the blurting of a whale would break the monotony. Once during the forty odd days at sea they were battened down during a storm which caused the boat to pitch and roll considerably. As they neared the shores of the United States, a confederate gunboat hailed them for inspection as the Civil War was on then.
The emigrants, cramped and huddled down like animals, had their sorrows along with their happier moments. Measles broke out among them. Nine little children succumbed. Each corpse was wrapped in a blanket and sadly lowered into a watery grave. And three babies, two boys and one girl, were born at sea.
It was early in the morning of July 16th that the shoreline of America was sighted. It was one experience never to be forgotten. In a few short hours a pilot [boat] had them towed safely into the harbor of New York. Here they were interviewed by the Customs Officers and placed in the "Castle Garden".
Ellis Island, used by the Federal Government, was a landing place for immigrants. At the entrance of the East River were the old Dutch Fortifications. The round fort was the assembly hall where the immigrants were herded to await admittance into the United States. This was known as Castle Gardens, but during the years when thousands of immigrants were arriving yearly, it belied its name. The place was not only rat-infested but the immigrants themselves were covered with body lice and stinking from the odor of the overcrowded ship's hold.
Years after, Eliza often told her children how her beautiful black lustrous hair came to near ruin through the drastic treatment to rid her of these parasites.
As soon as a company with freight could be located, the immigrants were loaded on railroad cars. The cars were neither clean nor comfortable. Most of them were box cars or those in which cattle were loaded. Delays of all kinds were met due to the Civil War. Bridges and railroad tracks were torn out by Confederate armies. Finally at Saint Joseph [Missouri], they were placed on a Missouri River boat which carried them to Winter Quarters, Nebraska, on August 6, 1864.
For two more weeks they lived in a little brush shelter awaiting preparations for the journey over the plains. Two companies were made up with Captain Rawlings in charge of one and Warren S Snow the other. Eliza was with Captain Snow's company, and to lighten the load, she walked barefoot much of the way.
Due to a scarcity of food for their oxen and cattle, Captain Snow took a different route than the other company. Some days they traveled only two hours and the journey was wearisome and hard. Finally, President Brigham Young sent supplies of food and clothing out to this company and assisted them to reach Salt Lake. All had suffered from cold and exposure as they had encountered early snow. From Winter Quarters to their arrival at the 8th Ward square where the City and County Building now stands, on November 2, 1864, their journey required three months.
The beloved president of the company on the ship "Hudson", John M. Kay, died on the plains. They made a rough box and dug a hole for burial beside the trail. Brother Kay and George Careless had cheered and comforted the saints throughout the voyage and the journey over the plains, with their sweet music.
It was while on the voyage over [from England] that Professor Careless wrote the hymn "The Morning Breaks" to cheer the weary saints. He would have them all singing as they arose in the morning and the same before retiring at night.
It was a cold reception they had upon their arrival at the 8th Ward Square in Salt Lake. They had no relatives or friends to greet them. The company remained together for two days and nights during which time most of them found places of employment. Eliza was taken into the home of a poor shoemaker and his large family in the 8th Ward. Then Eunice Neslen Foster, wife of William Henry Foster, heard of this plucky immigrant girl and took her into their home. Eliza made every effort to locate her sister, Emma, who had arrived previously, No trace was ever found of her, but they established the fact that she had gone south when the move south took place, but her identity became lost. About the year 1866, her young brother, George Francis Newland Jr arrived from England and he made his home for five years in the Foster home with his sister, Eliza.
On August 4, 1871, Eliza's courageous mother, Amelia Knight Newland, and three other sisters, Mary (Polly), Sarah, and Georgina (Gean) arrived in Salt Lake to establish a home -- long-dreamed-of and planned for among the saints. It was indeed a sacrifice on her mother's part, as it meant separation from her husband and one daughter for the rest of her life. From the time of her baptism and that of her children, the father had failed to see or understand the gospel. He could not comprehend how a mother would sacrifice all for its sake. He refused to emigrate to Utah with them, and one daughter remained with him.
The road up for Eliza was not an easy one. The story of every emigrant girl is much the same. By nature she was unselfish and forgiving. She readily adapted herself to her new surroundings. Although in the service of others, she was taught or given some schooling. Her patient way with small children drew forth admiration and respect.
When Eliza was nineteen years of age, the church leaders advised William Henry Foster to accept polygamy and take her as his second wife. They were married on November 16, 1869 in the Endowment House by Daniel H. Wells. For nearly ten years she continued to make her home with the first wife, whom she had always called "Auntie". This home was at 330 South West Temple. Before the birth of her fourth child, her husband had bought land and built her a home on South West Temple, just three blocks away. There were two sons and three daughters born to this union. She reared three to maturity. her eldest daughter and second son died in infancy. Auntie's family consisted of twelve children.
Eliza took an active part in the church. She was a teacher in the Sunday School and an officer in the Primary. In later life, she became an ardent Temple worker.
Making things do, and making the best of things are two of the unfailing recipes for peace of mind. William H. Foster was not only much older than she, but was constantly before the public, both in business and socially. His musical affiliations kept him engaged, not only locally but in all parts of the country and throughout the state. Seldom did Eliza share with him this wide circle of friends. Her world lay within the home and in her quiet unassuming way, she brought joy and happiness to all within the home circle.
If one of Auntie's daughters needed help in time of sickness or trouble, she was there giving her loving service. Together she and the first wife shared in the loss of their beloved husband who died on November 16, 1906. She stood by to comfort the sorrowing daughters and sons, now grown to womanhood and manhood, when the summons came for Auntie.
In her eighty-second year, the sparkle was not dimmed in the grave dark eyes and her black hair was still dark and lustrous. Though life had tested her in many ways, she still found it good. She had lived it fully with a simplicity and sweetness permeating it -- all that marks a noble character. Death came to her on November 3, 1933 at the home of her daughter, Lily May, who had so lovingly cared for her until the end.
Mormon Pioneer Overland Travel, Warren S. Snow Company (1864); Age at departure: 13
Utah Death Certificate
Married William Henry Foster, 15 November 1869, Salt Lake City, Salt Lake, Utah
Children - Eleanor N Foster, Lucy May Foster, George Francis Foster, Oscar Newland Foster, Lillie May Foster, Emily Nora Foster
History - Retyped here from a copy in the files of Darrell R Eddington, a great grandnephew.
In the pleasant Thames Valley and the region south of it, we find some of England's most picturesque scenery. Here are the green meadows and hedgerow-bordered fields, where villages of quaint thatched cottages are nestled among stately manor houses. If you should continue southward, skirting the beautiful southern coast, you enter Hampshire, with the Isle of Wight lying off its harbor of Southhampton, and the great naval station of Portsmouth. It was in this historic setting at Kingstown Cross, near the great seaport of Portsmouth, that Eliza Newland was born on September 15, 1850. She was one of six daughters and one son of the family of George Francis Newland Sr. and Amelia Knight.
Both her parents were natives of this beautiful country, Hampshire. Her mother was born in Denmead, England on January 20, 1820. Her father's birthplace was just twenty miles from London at Windsor on January 4, 1814. This is one of England's oldest towns with the castle the chief point of interest. Windsor, which means "winding shore" was founded by William the Conqueror as a hunting post. The view from the old castle across the winding Thames [River] is one of enchantment. The gray antique towers and picturesque ivy-covered buildings of the old town vie with the famous old castle where King Arthur once had his Round Table. There is much of historic interest in the ancestral birthplace of Eliza Newland and that of her parents--being old in time and rich in legend.
Amid such surroundings where the daily life of the simple English folk moved serenely and undisturbed, Eliza was reared to girlhood. That her people were religiously inclined, especially her mother, we know from the influence the Elders of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints brought to bear upon them. During the 1850's the Mormon Elders were active in various parts of England. No doubt her mother read the literature of their tracts as well as listened to them and became converted. Once she had embraced the Gospel she could not be shaken, and her one desire was to gather with the Saints in Utah. She had her children baptized at the same time she was baptized.
At sometime during the years from 1860 to 1863, through her careful planning and industry, she saved sufficient money to send an older daughter, [Emma] to Utah. Then in the year 1863 she made preparations to emigrate Eliza. By the 30th of May 1864, the sailing vessel "Hudson" was ready to carry a group or company of converts to America. Eliza was then nearing her fourteenth birthday.
On June 2, 1864, anchor was weighed, a pilot boat towed them down the Thames River and into the English Channel--then the "Hudson" was left to make the journey on her own across the Atlantic to New York City.
It was hard to part with kindred and friends, and many a tear was shed as the shore line of their native land, England, gradually faded from view. To Eliza, barely in her teens and among strangers, it was indeed a trial. In after years to recall that voyage to mind was to relive the nausea of both homesickness and sea sickness.
It was an interesting sight to view an emigrant vessel. On the "Hudson" were 900 Latter-day Saints. [Including Ann Toomer Fry Littlefield and her six young children--all registered under the name of "Fry" rather than "Littlefield" for fear her second husband, William Littlefield, would try to stop them all from leaving England. Her first husband, John Fry, had been lost at Sea and the three children from that Union had sailed previously to America] There were English, Scotch, Welch, Irish, Danish, and others on board.
The Saints went steerage which meant they descended through a trap door to quarters below deck. Their berths were large shelves securely fastened to the ship's sides. Their trunks and belongings must be fastened firmly down to overcome the ship's motion when at sea. Also in the hold were great long tables where all the emigrants sat to eat their meals, that is those who were able to eat. The fare consisted mainly of salt beef, salt pork, rice and hard tack or ship's biscuits. None of the fare was enticing. It was almost necessary to break the biscuits open with a hammer. Each person was given a linen bag to hold these items, and at a specified time, they were to be at the commissary to receive the allotment of fresh water, etc.
Under such conditions strict discipline was necessary. John M. Kay was president over the company of saints on the Hudson. He was assisted by George Holladay, John L. Smith, and Matthew McDune. Prayers were maintained night and morning; meetings were held on deck every night, and all lights out by nine o'clock p.m.
The voyage was made without incident except the occasional sighting of an ocean liner or some other sailing vessel. Then, perhaps, the blurting of a whale would break the monotony. Once during the forty odd days at sea they were battened down during a storm which caused the boat to pitch and roll considerably. As they neared the shores of the United States, a confederate gunboat hailed them for inspection as the Civil War was on then.
The emigrants, cramped and huddled down like animals, had their sorrows along with their happier moments. Measles broke out among them. Nine little children succumbed. Each corpse was wrapped in a blanket and sadly lowered into a watery grave. And three babies, two boys and one girl, were born at sea.
It was early in the morning of July 16th that the shoreline of America was sighted. It was one experience never to be forgotten. In a few short hours a pilot [boat] had them towed safely into the harbor of New York. Here they were interviewed by the Customs Officers and placed in the "Castle Garden".
Ellis Island, used by the Federal Government, was a landing place for immigrants. At the entrance of the East River were the old Dutch Fortifications. The round fort was the assembly hall where the immigrants were herded to await admittance into the United States. This was known as Castle Gardens, but during the years when thousands of immigrants were arriving yearly, it belied its name. The place was not only rat-infested but the immigrants themselves were covered with body lice and stinking from the odor of the overcrowded ship's hold.
Years after, Eliza often told her children how her beautiful black lustrous hair came to near ruin through the drastic treatment to rid her of these parasites.
As soon as a company with freight could be located, the immigrants were loaded on railroad cars. The cars were neither clean nor comfortable. Most of them were box cars or those in which cattle were loaded. Delays of all kinds were met due to the Civil War. Bridges and railroad tracks were torn out by Confederate armies. Finally at Saint Joseph [Missouri], they were placed on a Missouri River boat which carried them to Winter Quarters, Nebraska, on August 6, 1864.
For two more weeks they lived in a little brush shelter awaiting preparations for the journey over the plains. Two companies were made up with Captain Rawlings in charge of one and Warren S Snow the other. Eliza was with Captain Snow's company, and to lighten the load, she walked barefoot much of the way.
Due to a scarcity of food for their oxen and cattle, Captain Snow took a different route than the other company. Some days they traveled only two hours and the journey was wearisome and hard. Finally, President Brigham Young sent supplies of food and clothing out to this company and assisted them to reach Salt Lake. All had suffered from cold and exposure as they had encountered early snow. From Winter Quarters to their arrival at the 8th Ward square where the City and County Building now stands, on November 2, 1864, their journey required three months.
The beloved president of the company on the ship "Hudson", John M. Kay, died on the plains. They made a rough box and dug a hole for burial beside the trail. Brother Kay and George Careless had cheered and comforted the saints throughout the voyage and the journey over the plains, with their sweet music.
It was while on the voyage over [from England] that Professor Careless wrote the hymn "The Morning Breaks" to cheer the weary saints. He would have them all singing as they arose in the morning and the same before retiring at night.
It was a cold reception they had upon their arrival at the 8th Ward Square in Salt Lake. They had no relatives or friends to greet them. The company remained together for two days and nights during which time most of them found places of employment. Eliza was taken into the home of a poor shoemaker and his large family in the 8th Ward. Then Eunice Neslen Foster, wife of William Henry Foster, heard of this plucky immigrant girl and took her into their home. Eliza made every effort to locate her sister, Emma, who had arrived previously, No trace was ever found of her, but they established the fact that she had gone south when the move south took place, but her identity became lost. About the year 1866, her young brother, George Francis Newland Jr arrived from England and he made his home for five years in the Foster home with his sister, Eliza.
On August 4, 1871, Eliza's courageous mother, Amelia Knight Newland, and three other sisters, Mary (Polly), Sarah, and Georgina (Gean) arrived in Salt Lake to establish a home -- long-dreamed-of and planned for among the saints. It was indeed a sacrifice on her mother's part, as it meant separation from her husband and one daughter for the rest of her life. From the time of her baptism and that of her children, the father had failed to see or understand the gospel. He could not comprehend how a mother would sacrifice all for its sake. He refused to emigrate to Utah with them, and one daughter remained with him.
The road up for Eliza was not an easy one. The story of every emigrant girl is much the same. By nature she was unselfish and forgiving. She readily adapted herself to her new surroundings. Although in the service of others, she was taught or given some schooling. Her patient way with small children drew forth admiration and respect.
When Eliza was nineteen years of age, the church leaders advised William Henry Foster to accept polygamy and take her as his second wife. They were married on November 16, 1869 in the Endowment House by Daniel H. Wells. For nearly ten years she continued to make her home with the first wife, whom she had always called "Auntie". This home was at 330 South West Temple. Before the birth of her fourth child, her husband had bought land and built her a home on South West Temple, just three blocks away. There were two sons and three daughters born to this union. She reared three to maturity. her eldest daughter and second son died in infancy. Auntie's family consisted of twelve children.
Eliza took an active part in the church. She was a teacher in the Sunday School and an officer in the Primary. In later life, she became an ardent Temple worker.
Making things do, and making the best of things are two of the unfailing recipes for peace of mind. William H. Foster was not only much older than she, but was constantly before the public, both in business and socially. His musical affiliations kept him engaged, not only locally but in all parts of the country and throughout the state. Seldom did Eliza share with him this wide circle of friends. Her world lay within the home and in her quiet unassuming way, she brought joy and happiness to all within the home circle.
If one of Auntie's daughters needed help in time of sickness or trouble, she was there giving her loving service. Together she and the first wife shared in the loss of their beloved husband who died on November 16, 1906. She stood by to comfort the sorrowing daughters and sons, now grown to womanhood and manhood, when the summons came for Auntie.
In her eighty-second year, the sparkle was not dimmed in the grave dark eyes and her black hair was still dark and lustrous. Though life had tested her in many ways, she still found it good. She had lived it fully with a simplicity and sweetness permeating it -- all that marks a noble character. Death came to her on November 3, 1933 at the home of her daughter, Lily May, who had so lovingly cared for her until the end.
Mormon Pioneer Overland Travel, Warren S. Snow Company (1864); Age at departure: 13
Utah Death Certificate
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