CHAPTER 3

CALVIN'S PARENTS

Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord:

And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, and the hearts of the children shall return unto their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse.

Malachi Chapter 4: 5-6

Marinda Elizabeth Griffith McOmber Clark
Calvin's mother

Born March 7, 1857 at Fairfield, Utah (Cedar Fort)
Blessed May 3, 1889
Baptized April 6, 1865 by George Thomas Hyde Park, Cache co. Utah
Confirmed April 9, 1865 by William Hyde Sr.
Married H. Hobson, May 15, 1876 Endowment House, Div. Remarried to Orange McOmber, 1884, Div. and remarried to A.B. Clark March, 1903 at Logan before leaving for the Old Mexican colonies
Sealed to Arthur B. Clark, October Feb. 6, 1914 at Logan Temple, along with Calvin and Minnie
Died June 29, 1916 Hyde Park
A TRIBUTE TO MARINDA, MY GREAT GRANDMOTHER
BY RUTH McOMBER PRATT , March 7, 1995

Dear Mother, pioneer so lovely and fine
In your vale of tears, did mourn and pine

Knew sorrow, loss of loved ones dear
Knew the sting of death, toil and fear

Knew the parting of husband, left alone
Single to nurture a son, true love shown

Strong to endure the physical pain
Stronger yet, eternal life to gain

But then came Arthur B. Clark, full of song and dance
Gave you a family, a home, and romance

Though late in life he made you wife,
He healed your longings and your strife

You fought a valiant, and faithful fight
You endured, you stood for truth and right

And look, LOOK at the prize you finally won
When you raised such a fine, great, wonderful son

And through you, through him, came US
Thankyou dear grandma, you are victorious!

Marinda is born March 7, 1857, Fairfield, Utah

What were conditions like when Marinda was born to Patison and Elizabeth? It was March 7, 1857 when she arrived. They were living at Fairfield, Utah. Marinda was only four months old when the unwelcome Johnstons Army came to reside in their back yard, known as Camp Floyd.

At this point, it is very instructive to review a little historical background of the area. CAMP FLOYD of Fairfield, Utah July 8, 1857-July 27, 1861.

CAMP FLOYD AND JOHNSTONS ARMY

After our pioneer ancestors came to the Utah Valley, they lived quite peacefully for about ten years. Things changed dramatically when Johnston's Army arrived being sent from the US Government. Due to rumors, false stories, and basic bad communication, the army was sent by President Buchanon to correct the conduct of the Mormons. The group consisted of 5,606 men, l6,000,000 pounds of freight including 3,500 wagons, 40,000 oxen, l,000 mules and over 4,000 men. June 26, 1858 they arrived . . . and the place President Young gave for their residency was: FAIRFIELD. The troops rode through the Great Salt Lake Valley. Before the army entered the valley, Brigham Young had ordered everyone to go to the mountains for refuge. A totally deserted and abandoned city awaited the soldiers. Right in the same place that the Carsons and Griffiths were living came the unwanted calvary. Marinda was a young baby when this threat to peace came to their little settlement of Fairfield. Though not a shot was fired, many were relieved when the army left Utah to fight the Civil War. The "Utah War" was over. In the end, the army's supplies did help the struggling mormon settlers. However, this part of US History was a great embarrassment and needless expense to the US government.

When the army resided here, overnight Fairfield became one of those typical hell-roaring, wild places of the West, and with Camp Floyd, soon had a population of some 7,000 or more people. Salt Lake City had only 15,000 people.

John Carson owned an Inn and since he was an elder of the Mormon church, did not allow smoking or drinking, nor round dancing. General Johnston thought highly of John Carson and his Inn served as a decent hostelry for prominent visitors to the place. ( Today one can see this Inn and visit it as a historic home of Utah, called the Stagecoach Inn.) Brigham Young called the Patison D. Griffeth Family to settle Hyde Park. They left Fairfield and with the Hyde family answered the call of Brigham Young. We can guess that they felt relief to be away from the worldly army.

Memories of my mother, Marinda Griffith McOmber Clark by her son: Calvin Delos McOmber Sr.

My mother, Marinda grew up as a pioneer girl at Hyde Park . She grew to young womanhood as a member of a family of girls with one living brother, Uncle Andrew. She was married to Henry Hobson as a second wife, to them was born a son whom they named George. The boy lived only three years.

A history of her married life with Hobson was given to me by his daughter of his wife, sister Wallace Strong. I met sister Strong at Oakley, Idaho. She spoke of having lived in Cache Valley which naturally struck a sensitive note in my life and I told her that Hyde Park, was the place of my birth and I asked her what her maiden name was. She said she was a daughter of Henry Hobson. I then asked her "if Hobson had two wives?" She said "yes, my mother and aunt Marinda." I Then asked her what kind of a woman was this "aunt Marinda" and she said, "she was a most wonderful woman and loved her very much and used to stay with her when she would otherwise be alone."

I told sister Strong that her aunt Marinda was my mother, she then gave me a pathetic story saying her mother was a very jealous and vindictive woman and when her father took aunt Marinda to Richmond, Utah to live, her mother would not allow him to build her a home excepting a little one room house that was moved some distance out in the field and aunt Marinda was not welcome in my mother's home except in times of sickness. Because of her jealousy she created a very unhappy and miserable life for both her husband and aunt Marinda, so much so that she lost her love and respect for her mother and wanted to live with aunt Marinda. After growing to womanhood, she wished she could see aunt Marinda and express her love for her. She said, " my mother's jealousy and meanness separated my father and your mother."

In the early 1880's my mother again married as a second wife to Orange McOmber. Two children were born from this union, myself and my sister Elizabeth Marinda, known as Minnie. Minnie passed away at the age of about 19 months caused by whooping cough and pneumonia. I remember being lifted up by some person to see her in the casket, and the people mourning. Many people came to Grandfather Griffith's where the funeral was held. Her second marriage also ended in divorce. After several troubled years of hardship, sorrow, hard work and servitude to others, she again ventured into marriage and in March of 1902 she was married to Arthur B. Clark. After her marriage, we moved to Old Mexico, where the plurality of wives was accepted by the Government and the church.

During the winter of 1890, mother went to Star Valley to care for Aunt Phoebe, at the birth of LeRoy Griffith Hyde. Aunt Phoebe passed away early in January 1891. Mother then took her children, George, Ida, and LeRoy who was then two weeks old. They went to Hyde Park where mother cared for them for four or five years.

When George was about nine years old, his older brother Wilford took him to Star Valley to live with him. Ida and LeRoy remained with mother to provide and care for and moved with us to Grover Wyoming in November of 1897.

In 1902 Ida was married to Albert Miles and LeRoy went with mother and me to Mexico where LeRoy died in the summer of 1905. Having had LeRoy from birth, he was as much a part of mother as her own son and at his death, brought another sorrow into her life.

The Last years of mother's life, she was afflicted with rheumatism which made her an invalid whereof she had to be cared for by others until her death in 1916. She was laid to rest at the cemetery at Hyde Park beside her two children who had preceded her."

Many children died of the bad sanitary conditions of Old Mexico. Typhoid Fever took its toll on many. Calvin Delos also acquired that illness. He was very ill and remembers how his mother pleaded with the Lord to save her only living child. Her prayers were answered and Calvin grew to maturity. The story goes that he had invited a pretty girl named Achsah Stout to a dance, but the dance never materialized due to his illness. Achsah also became ill with the dread disease and spent many months recovering. Thank goodness they both got better and had no permanent side effects from the Typhoid Fever.

Calvin recovered and later served as President of the Sunday School with David Fisk Stout as first councillor and Achsah Stout as Secretary. Calvin began courting Achsah and soon asked Achsah's hand in marriage. Bishop Thurber performed the wedding at the Stout home, due to the chapel was still being built. Later they went to Salt Lake for the sealing. The diary of David Fisk Stout relates that their wedding was one of the best real family weddings the family ever had. It wasn't long after this joyous event that dark clouds of Civil war in Old mexico began to brew. Marinda with first Grandchild: Calvin Delos McOmber Jr.,
335 East, 4 North, Logan Utah
George Hobson, son of Marinda . Her first son later died and she divorced Mr. Hobson.

From a letter written by Axie (or Achsah) from Guadalupe, Mexico, January 8, 1911 to her mother-in-law, Marinda:

Dear Aunt Marinda,

We were very glad to get your letter and cards. Especially baby. He held his card and laughed over it and wanted to eat it, but Papa wouldn't let him. Baby has been cutting his second upper tooth and has been quite sick. He started at the beginning of the Holidays and was sick the rest of the time. Calvin hasn't been to but one dance and I haven't been to anything. Today I went to the after noon meeting. He is much better now, but his little gum is awfully swollen yet. One corner of his tooth was cut through, but it swelled over again.

Santa Claus made us a visit this year. Brought the baby two pair of stockings, Calvin two handkerchiefs, a glass spoon holder and me a trunk, a butter dish, sugar bowl, and cream pitcher. We had a tree and " we" helped trim it. Monday was the grandest Christmas Dinner. We had a feast of cream pies, cream puffs, and many other things too numerous to mention. They lasted us for a week.

The winter has been very pleasant. Only one or two unpleasant days. I took the baby out for a ride. Calvin fixed up the middle bedroom and put a partition in it making two rooms. It will give us a little more room.

We were over to the old house the other day and found everything all right. However, Calvin's coats were quite badly eaten with the moths. Our babe is so sweet. He can not stand to hear any body cry when he sees his little Aunt Unice May cry he feels worse than she does. The tears will roll down his cheek while hers will be dry, when he was so sick that he could hardly cry. He heard her cry then raised up and gave just one little cry and laid down again.

Ma and Grandma are very thankful for your lovely cards. Ma says she will write you one as soon as she can. We will send some letters to you from Sister Wagner. We would have sent them in the last letter but there wasn't room.

Write soon to us, with love, Axie
As Civil War raged in Old Mexico, the saints kept a neutral stance. However, the rebels became angry with the United States Government and ordered
all U.S Citizens and colonists to leave or die. From the 16th Ward bulletin written by Calvin D. McOmber Sr, reported by Calista Fairchild, he relates:

EXODUS FROM MEXICO

"Sunday morning, July 28, 1912 was quiet and beautiful, however, a feeling of anxiety weighed upon the souls of the LDS in Colonial Dublan and Juarez, Mexico. Because a large detachment, about 1600 men of the rebel army, under General Salazer were camped near Dublan and had requested that the Saints give up their fire-arms and ammunition to this rebel band. The orders were complied with in part, but not fully.

A committee of the leading brethren were organized to meet with General Salazer to obtain a pledge from him for protection of the Saints. After a lengthy meeting the pledge was given by Salazer and his staff to the effect that the lives and property of the saints would be protected. This meeting ended about 10 o'clock AM. About 2 o'clock PM of the same day the rebels were called to attention. General Salazer gave a fiery talk saying that the Mormons must be driven out of Mexico or exterminated. Some LDS boys, hearing the orders, rode swiftly to Juarez and Dublan to warn the saints of the impending danger. A messenger carried word for all families in small communities and those on farms to come into town promptly. The saints responded and were soon at the depot. Here word was received that the train on which we hoped to send women and children to El Paso was hours late, having been detained by burned out bridges. We therefore, found a vacant house where we spread our few blankets on the floor. My mother, who was afflicted with arthritis was put to bed along with the children. We were just settling down for a few hours rest when word came that we should be ready in a few minutes as wagons would be here to take us to the depot. Arriving at the depot we waited until seven o'clock AM. When the train came, only women and children under twelve were allowed to go. No older boys or men were permitted to go except those chosen by the committee.

Because of my mother's critical condition, I was chosen to go along to take care of her. Along with my wife, Achsah and our two children, Calvin Jr. and Emerson, I was given a company of 39 other woman and children to care for. About 4 o'clock PM the train crossed the Rio Grande River bridge into El Paso, the Stars and Stripes, city officials, and committees met the 500 souls who had been driven from their homes. Apostle Anthony W. Ivans represented the church authorities. After El-Paso City civic organizations had given help and comfort, the church began organizing in order to get the saints distributed to different parts of the United States where friends and relatives could assist them until they were able to care for themselves.On the arrival at their destination, bishops were notified and houses were rented. Emergency equipment was provided. Bedding, etc, was furnished from church funds and work found for those who could work. Doctors and medicine were provided for the sick. None were allowed to suffer. Hence, through the church, hundreds were helped temporarily until they could care for their own.

At this time all tithing was paid "in kind" and a block in the central part of Dublan was known as "tithing square". There was a building on one corner where the tithing was kept and other outbuildings scattered around the block. After the woman and children had been put on their way, all the men assembled themselves at tithing square and made beds in barns and on the hay.

After about two weeks the trouble got worse and word came that 3800 Mexican rebels were moving in to force the LDS out. All our men assembled and with one white-top buggy to accommodate the ill and elderly and the rest on horseback, they abandoned the town and rode across the border into the United States.

Many of the people settled in Arizona and New Mexico hoping that things would get better and they would be able to return to their homes. They never were able to return permanently.

I brought my wife and our two children (their ages at the time were 2 years and 6 months) my mother and my wife's' mother and brother and sister and we came by train to Logan We settled there two years, and then home steaded in the Oakley, Idaho area. Later we moved to Pocatello."

The following is the list of property owned by Calvin D. mcOmber Sr. and Achsah at Colonia Guadalupe and Colonia Dublan, Chihuahua, Mexico at the time of the exodus. Taken from Calvins records.

twenty one acres of irrigated land at $ 125.00 per acre $2625.00
Two and a half acres of irrigated land at $l50.00 $375.00
Hay in stack, 25 tons at $10.00 per ton $250.00
Hay in field 15 tons at $9.00 per ton $135.00
Wheat in bin 500 bushels at $1.00 $500.00
Corn in field seven acres 30 bushels per acre $250.00
Water melons one acre $100.00
Beans, three acres average yield per acre, 12 bushels $216.00
Molasses cane two acres $150.00
Sheds, corrals, and house building materials $500.00
Household furniture and furnishings $500.00
Well bred Perchion horses wght. 1450 to 1600 lbs. four ho. at 125. $500.00
Stock in imported perchion stallion, pure bred, $200.00
Well bred milch cows, four (4) head. at $80.00 per head $320.00
Two year old heifers at $50.00 per head (two head) $100.00
Two 1 year old heifers at $30.00 per head $60.00
Two six month old heifers at $15.00 per head $30.00
Seventy-five white leghorn hens at $.50 each $ 37.50
One hog (200 lbs.) at six cents per pound $12.00
One Mt. wagon, 3l25 in. and box $l25.00
Four qtr. inch x l6 foot log chains at $3.00 each $12.00
Two sets heavy farm harness at $30.00 each $60.00
Farm and garden impliments $200.00
Lost $7257.50 due to the Mexican Civil war and exodus from Mexico

MARINDA'S LAST YEARS

After leaving Mexico, Marinda went back to her beloved Hyde Park. She was an invalid and needed care from others due to her bad arthritis. She passed away on 1916 at the age of 59. She was a valiant mother to her son and she loved her grandchildren very much. She made sure the family photographer took pictures of them. Had she lived longer, there would have been more. Some of her keepsakes were given to her only grand daughter, Velma. She made a lovely flower picture, of hand woven hair made into flowerettes. She was gifted with her hands and made the tiny loops and knots to create the hair flowers. One can see similar hair art by the pioneers in the DUP Museum at Salt Lake City, Utah. She sang alto in the choir and was active in the church all of her life.

From Marinda's obituary, we read: "On June 29th, Sister Marinda Clark, wife of the well known dentist Arthur B. Clark, passed away after several years of great suffering from rheumatism. Funeral services were held in the meeting house on July 1, at 2 PM. Bishop C. G. Hyde presided. The services began by the choir singing, Tho Deepening Trials. Prayer was offered by H.W. Hancey. The choir further sang, Oh Lord Responsive To Thy Call." Speakers were Stephen Thurston, Rosel H. Hyde, with a musical number by Arthur Petersen, Oh My Father. George Clark spoke of the honest, cheerful, and pure life of Aunt Marinda, and spoke of the many blessings enjoyed by the saints here on earth, and of the glorious future awaiting God's faithful children. Bishop Hyde said she was one of the first pioneers of Hyde Park and had fought the good fight and was entitled to all the blessings of the Celestial Kingdom. The choir sang: Rest for the Weary, and the benediction was pronounced by William A. Seamons. Paul bearers: Edgar and Arvel Hale, William and Ivan Seamons, Arthur Bennett and Edward Griffith. She is survived by her husband Arthur B. Clark and one son, Calvin McOmber of Oakley, Idaho, two brothers and eight sisters. Her son is a young man that any mother may well be proud of, and like his noble mother, leads a pure upright life. Sister Clark will long live in the memory of a host of friends (Horace Hancey)

The grave was dedicated by J. W.D. Hurren. Left to Right: Arthur Benjamen Clark, Calvin Delos McOmber (back) with cousin LeRoy, & Marinda Elizabeth (McOmber) Clark. LeRoy was like a brother to Calvin. LeRoy came to live with Calvin and Marinda afer he was born, since his mother had died.

Information on Marinda Elizabeth Griffith McOmber Clark
Born March 7, 1857 in Fairfield, Utah. (Cedar Fort)
Baptized April 6, 1865 by George Thomas
Confirmed April 9, 1865 by Wm. Hyde Sr.
Sealed to parents November 19, 1884
Endowed May 15, 1876 when married to Hobson. Divorced and remarried to Orange McOmber. Divorced or separated and remarried to Arthur Benjamin Clark.

Grandfather's records say they were married on March 12, of 1902, sealed Oct. 7, 1909 Logan Temple. There are some conflicting data on her marriage date to AB Clark, some records are still not in agreement. One account says she was married to Arthur in Preston, Idaho and then went to Old Mexico, another account says she was married in the Colonies in 1902 by President Ivins and later sealed to him in 1909 or 1912 and research has not verified its certainty. Grandfather, Calvin, remembers being sealed to him in the Logan Temple, along with his late sister "Minnie" but doesn't have a consistant date.

Because it was against the U.S law to have polygamist marriages, many plural marriages were kept secret, and unpublished.
Marinda had a very happy life with Arthur B.Clark and the family was very loving and kind to Marinda and Calvin. They were a great and wonderful family.
Died June 29, 1916 at the Hyde Park Cemetery.
Devoted mother to Calvin D. McOmber, Sr.
A Patriarchal blessing given to Marinda
Logan Utah, April 26, 1903

A blessing given by Lorenzo Hill Hatch, Patriarch, upon the head of Marinda Elizabeth Griffith, daughter of Patison Griffith and Elizabeth Carson, born in 1857 near Lehi Utah.

Dear Sister Marinda, in the name of Jesus Christ thy Redeemer, I have placed my hands upon thy head and seal upon thee a Patriarchal and Fathers blessing. My heart is full of blessings for you and the Lord will remember you. He has heard your prayers. He has witnessed your tears and the many sacrifices thou hast been called to make and there is better days in store for thee. His angles have watched over thee and for every sacrifice thou hast made thou shalt be rewarded an hundred fold. Thy days shall be lengthened out. The prayers of the widow and the orphan will ascend up in they behalf. For thou hast been born of goodly parents. The promises made unto thy father and mother shall be verified. Other dead shall be redeemed and of their generation there shall be no end. Behold there is a great work required at thy hands as a representative of thy fathers and mothers house in behalf of they kindred dead. The Lord will open up thy way and His mind and will shall be made known unto thee from day to day. For your whole trust is in the Lord and thou shalt be provided and beloved and stand by the side of a man of God. By which the promise made unto thee shall be verified and fulfilled and thy heart shall be filled with thanksgiving. For thou art a lawful heir and every promise that has been made that thou should stand as an honored mother for thou art through the loins of Ephraim. Fear not for I seal upon thy head every blessing that thy heart can desire in righteousness. For there is many difficulties to encounter. But the Lord will open up thy way. Thou shalt know the mind and will of the Lord and thy guardian angel will never forsake thee. I seal upon thy head the blessings of peace for thou hast had sorrow. Thy heart shall be filled with joy unspeakable and thou shalt acknowledge the hand of God and His providences unto thee. For thou has been called to pass through tribulations and I pray for thee and say unto thee read the words of this blessing and it shall be a source of strength and it shall be as an anchor to they soul and there is a crown and a mansion prepared for thee and I seal upon thy head all these blessings that thou mightest reign as a queen and princess in connection with a man of God and to him associated with the most honored mothers of Israel. I seal these blessings by the Authority of the Priesthood and in the name of Jesus Christ Amen.
This blessing was among Achsah Stout McOmber's keepsakes.

She received two blessings. This other one was given by Charles Pulsipher, Patriarch, date not recorded. Found among Achsah McOmbers keepsakes.

Sister Marinda Elizabeth, I lay my hands upon your head and seal upon you a Patriarchal blessing. Thy lineage is of the House of Israel through the loins of Joseph. Thou art entitled to all the blessings of the new and everlasting covenant for thou hast come upon the earth in the gospel dispensation and thus bear the souls of men that will be an honor and glory unto you and help carry out your labors which the Lord requires at you hands in assisting to minister the Holy ordinances for and in behalf of thy numerous dead relatives. Thou shalt have joy and satisfaction in the work of the gospel. Therefore continue thy faithfulness and you shall be blessed and strengthened in your body and enabled to fulfill every duty and obligation in life. You shall be blessed with means sufficient to meet all thine necessities that you shall be able to feed thy thousands, and still thou shalt not be in lack. For many will look unto you as a faithful mother in Israel and your reward shall be great because you have entered into the high and holy order of marriage and made sacrifices of thy feelings for the sake of the gospel in these holy principles. Therefore be of good cheer for the Lord is well pleased with thy works and laid up a blessing in Heaven to meet thy reward. And while you enjoy the blessings of the earth, be wise and minister unto the wants of the poor and this shall return unto you fourfold and you shall also receive the true riches of eternity which you shall meet when you pass behind the vail. Then let thy faith fail not and all the desires of thy heart in righteousness shall be thine. For I seal this blessing upon thy head and reconfirm and seal all former ordinances and blessings and seal you up unto the morning of the first resurrection to come forth with thy companion and numerous posterity and receive a glorious celestial body and I do this by virtue and authority of my Holy Patriarchal calling in the name of Jesus Christ Amen. AB Clark, Scribe.

Orange McOmber
Marinda's second husband
Calvin's father

Born October 9, 1844
son of Richard and Eliza Cook McOmber
At Gaines Orleans, New York
Fought in the Civil War
Baptized and confirmed December 17, 1882 at Lewiston, Utah
Became an Elder Dec 17,188?
Married April 24, 1866 to Vilda (Lucinda Avilda) Vorce in Michigan
Married to Marinda Elizabeth Griffith about 1884 Div.,Hyde Park
(Taken from Lewiston Ward,FJL film 0,025,596)
Last wife is Mary Ann Dine, Baptist
Died November 4, 1932 in a house fire
Buried Nov. 5, 1932, Soldier's home, Roseburg, Oregon

Why did Orange come west after he fought in the civil war? This question was answered by some research done by Nikki McOmber, Avilda's Great Grandson. "Vilda" Vorce or Lucinda Avilda Vorce, married Orange on April 24, 1866 at Michigan. Vilda, or Avilda, was Orange's first wife.

Vilda's mother, Semantha Tolles Vorse (1809-1878) was baptized into the Mormon Church September, 1843, in Pavilion, Kalamazoo, Michigan. Semantha was born May 19, 1809 (daughter of John Tolles and Catherine Sibley) In Bennington, Genessee Co. New York. She and her husband were the first settlers in an area that is now known as Pavilion, Kalamazoo Co., Michigan. It was part of the Michigan Territory when her husband Carlo received 166.49 acres on May 15, 1834 for farming. This is where Avilda Vorse was born, on April 12, 1842, Pavilion Michigan. Avilda was ten years old when her mother joined the church. Her father died in 1850, leaving Samantha a widow at the age of 40 years old. Interesting to note that Samantha Tolles Vorce has a link of heritage to Parley P.Pratt, Both Parley and Semantha have the same great grandfather: Ebenezer Tolles.

Being the only member of the church in the Vorce family, Samantha (Vilda's mother) migrated to Utah in the 1860's. Her daughte, Vilda married Orange McOmber at this time period in Michigan. Semantha settled at Bountiful Utah. Records show that Orange and Vilda followed Samantha, also settling in Bountiful. In 1869 Avilda and Orange had their first son, Charles Orange McOmber on June 21, 1869 in Bountiful, Davis Co., Utah Territory. According to Charles O., the family was baptized when he was twelve years old.
According to the 1870 sensus of Bountiful, Semantha was a resident on August 15, 1870 of Bountiful, Davis Co., Utah. In 1873 she moved to Woodruff, Rich Co.Utah. In 1873 Vilda's two year old son Charles O., came to live with Grandma Samantha when his younger brother Ray was born on June 21, 1873. Young Charles lived with Samantha and Uncle Marcus for two years until Orange and Avilda moved to Woodruff. Grandma Samantha died in 1878, age 69 August 21, 1878 in Woodruff, Rich Co., Utah. She was a pioneer woman who came west and her children followed her, though they did not join the church until after her death. Samantha's son, Marcus, also joined the church and resided in Woodruff. He never married and records show he gave his property to his sister Avilda McOmber. Orange McOmber and Avilda Vorce McOmber as young marrieds

A patriarchal blessing was given May 8, 1867 from John Smith in the city of Bountiful, Davis Co., Utah, to Samantha Vorse, born May 19, 1809.

In her blessing she was promised that many of her posterity would yet embrace the gospel, that through her untiring energies and faith, would rejoice with her in the gospel. "For thou shalt receive thy reward, for every desire of thy heart in righteousness shall be granted thee, for thou hast, thru yielding obedience unto the work of God thru his servants, secured unto thyself salvation and also many of thy kindred."

It was through Samantha that Vilda and Orange came to Utah and both joined the church here after Samantha had passed away. Her blessing came true. After Vilda and Orange came to Utah they went to Hyde Park. Interesting to note that both Patison Delos Griffith and Orange are from Orleans County New York. Perhaps there is a connection here of friendship, for Orange takes Patison's daughter Marinda for his second wife. They have two children: Calvin Delos and "Minnie", which is a nick name for Marinda, named after her mother. Minnie died of Whooping Cough and Calvin survived it as a young child.

Why did Orange leave Hyde Park and leave his families? Those questions may only be answered in the next life. For a new convert as he was, to be subjected to the trials, persecutions, and responsibilities of church members at that time, it may have been too much for him. Perhaps it was easier to move to Roseburg, Oregon and marry a Baptist. We do not know why he moved away, but we do know that there was a separation, he left, and his children had no contact with him. He was a six foot tall, handsome man, from Scottish decent. He came from the eastern McOmbers. Most of the Massachusett McOmbers were from the Quaker registry. Chapter 7 has more on the McOmber's for more information. From Orange's obituary we read:

Mr. McOmber, who was born in New York state, October 9, 1844 served as a corporal in Company K, 8th New York calvary, during the civil war. He was admitted to the Oregon state soldier's home from La Grande, May 6, 1913 and had made his home continuously in Roseburg since that time. He came to Oregon from Idaho in 1901.

During recent years he and his wife had been living in the small cottage which they had purchased, located near the Fullerton school. For a period of several years Mr. McOmber was employed as operator of the elevator at the Perkins building, becoming well known to many residents of the city. In late years he had been an invalid.

Surviving Mr. McOmber in addition to his widow, are a son, James R. McOmber, California; a daughter, Mrs. CJ Black, La Grande, Oregon, a step daughter: Mrs JH Kanes, Roseburg. (Also Calvin D McOmber Of Pocatello)

Funeral services were held at the soldiers' home cemetery this afternoon. Arrangements were in charge of HC Stearns.

He died a tragic death: the obituary states: Orange McOmber, 88 year old civil war veteran, well known in Roseburg, where he has resided since 1913, was burned to death and his wife, 82 years of age, was critically burned when their cottage located just west of the city limits of Roseburg, near the Fullerton school, was destroyed by fire shortly after 10 o'clock last night.

Mr. McOmber, who had been in very poor health for several years, attempted, it was reported, to warm himself before a fire made of newspapers. On previous occasions he had, it was learned, built a fire of papers in a bucket, and it is believed that this practice resulted last night in setting fire to the curtains of the home, causing the fire which occasioned his death. (1932 Nov. 4).

Mrs McOmber tried to extinguish the blaze, and in doing so was burned about the face and arms. Mr. McOmber was too feeble to escape from the house, and lacking the strength to assist him, Mrs. McOmber hurried outside to secure help. By the time assistance was secured, the building was ablaze to such an extent that a rescue attempt was impossible. Mrs. McOmber was treated at Mercy hospital and is in satisfactory condition. (She passed away the next day.)

As the story goes, Orange worked as a lumberman when he met Marinda. She was a cook for the crew and later married Orange. She was his second wife. Calvin D. Sr. Writes

"My father, Orange, evidently spent most of his time at Lewiston, Utah, about 20 miles north of Hyde Park, where he owned a farm, and where Aunt Vilda, his first wife, lived. My mother, his second wife, was Marinda Elizabeth Griffith. About the time we moved in with my grandparents, my younger sister, Minnie and I had whooping cough, at which time she also had pneumonia, and died at the early age of 20 months.

When I was four, Mother and I went to Bennington, Idaho to visit my father and Aunt Vilda. Father had many farm horses, which I enjoyed looking at in the corral. I have thought, in later years, that the purpose of the visit was to determine whether or not my parents would be divorced. Evidently, they decided to separate, for I didn't see my father again until the summer of 1925 when I visited him at the Soldier's Home in Roseburg, Oregon. He was burned to death there."(Nov.4, 1932 was time of death.) A letter written to Calvin from his father Orange McOmber From the State of Oregon, Soldiers' Home After the United State Marshals were sent to Utah to imprison Polygamists, due to the Edmund Tucker law, many left for Old Mexico to keep their families in tack. Many plural marriages were not announced due to the illigality of polygmany. The legal pressures may have caused some marriages to be shattered.

A letter from Orange to his son Calvin: Jan. 19, 1926
238 Roosevelt Ave. Pocatello, Idaho
(See the original on page 72)

Calvin, you want more than I can give you of my people. I cannot give you any dates or ages for I have not heard from them for years. So I can't tell what I don't know,
My Father's name: Richard McOmber, My mother: Eliza McOmber,( Eliza Cook)
My Brothers:
Richard, Herman, Charles,
Sisters: Francis, Balinda
From Orange McOmber

From 1850 Census, Orleans Co. New York F N.Y 2 pt 61, serial no. 3988: Calvin records:
Town of Gaines:
Asa McOmber m 47, painter NY
Morella f.41
Marion
Julia
George
Merritt
Jane
Fanny
Fred
Eunice
Pardon McOmber M. 73 Wagon maker
Eunice
Akin M, Instrument Maker

Richard McOmber 37 m. Born in NYLaborer
Eliza 32
Frances, belinda, Mariah, Orange, Dick, Olive and Olive born in R.I. From Orange's Family:
1. Richard McOmber, 1847
2. Oranges'brother: James McOmber
3. Children of James A. and Mary Murwin McOmber. Sitting: Byron George, Loyd Horace, Ernest Murwin, Flora Lovina
Standing, Clara Lucinda, Edith Eliza, Howard Elmer
4. Etta McOmber and husband, Frank Lombard.

Charles Orange McOmber,
son of Orange and Vilda, writes about his family.

"I was baptized when I was twelve years old, when my folks joined the church in 1981 at Lewiston, Utah. My folks moved to Bountiful, then to Cache Valley. I don't know much about my father (Orange). His father's name was Richard McOmber and his mother's name was Eliza Cook Holland. His brothers and sisters were Richard, Hyrum, Francis, Balinda, and Henrietta. Orange and his 4th wife were burned to death when their house burned. His first wife, was Lucinda Avilda Vorce, my mother. His second wife was Marinda E. Griffith, she was Calvin's mother. His other two wives, I do not know their names, but I know he was married four times."

Vilda died April 16, 1919 at St. Anthony, Fremont, Idaho. When Charles O. died in 1958, Calvin D. Sr. said the prayer at his funeral.

When Ray McOmber died in Pocatello, Calvin D spoke at his funeral.

Calvin D. McOmber did some research on the McOmbers and believes that the family were MayFlower descendants. He states:

The Calendar of Devenshire wills show Thomas MaComber of Exeter made his will in 1697. Through a genealogist in Devonshire England, thought the inventory of Thomas MaComber of Exeter was recorded in 1621. He left a widow Jane. He was a grocer in a large way of business, leaving property in Ireland.

I found a family of Meacomber and Macomber in the Vicinity of Ashburton and Totnes. The dates range from 1590 to 1630 and the names are Walter, Christopher, Gregory, Margaret, and Edmund. These items point to Devoneshire England as the home of the ancestors of the Macomber family. In America the name was spelled as in England Macomber and Macumber. Noticeable that Thornasine Macomber widow of probably or Thomas Macomber married John Adams. Combe is old English word and means "Valley." The Massachuset McOmber's show a high percentage of them were of the Quaker religion.
From a letter to Grandfather we read:

Dear Friend Calvin D. McOmber,

From: 1015 Roseland Ave, Kalamzoo, Michigan,

"I happen to have a genealogy of the McComber family. It is excerpts of the original work done by Everett S. Stockpole about 1910 and published by the Journal Company of Lewiston Maine. The book also includes the spelling of the name, the family in Scotland, crest and coat-of-arms. The first generation is William Macomber and Ursilla Wm. Born 1610, died 1670. The second generation: William Macomner and Mary (?) Wm. Died 1711
Third generation William Macomber and Elizabeth Randall, William Born Sept. 26, 1674. Died 1767. Elizabeth Rogers, Timothy Born Oct 8, 1711, died 1791, (fourth generation)
Fifth generation, William McOmber and Sarah Brownell, Wm. Born Mar 26, 1740, died 1824,
Sixth generation, Roger Macomber and Anee Waterman, Roger gorn 1763, died 1843
Seventh generation: Allen Macomber and Ester Howe, Allen born March 17, 1807, died 1887.
Eighth generation, Lewis Allen Macomber and Fanny S. Smith. Lewis born March 14, 1844, died 1915
Nineth generation Mark Allen Macomber and Helen L Heath. Born May 20, 1871 died 1945
Tenth generation Richard Mccomber and Rodetta I. Martin, I was born Oct 10th, 1911. He could not find a Richard McOmber. I can not see your side of the family mentioned.
Love from Richard A. Macomber.

ARTHUR BENJAMIN CLARK
Married Marinda E. Griffith McOmber
Stepfather to Calvin D. McOmber Sr.

Calvin Delos's beloved Step Father
Born March 22, 1854 in Barking Essex England
Immigrated to Zion with Parents and five children in 1864.Three sisters preceded
Presiding Elder of Star Valley
Bishop of Star Valley June 17, 1891
Also served as Chorister, Organist, entertainer, and violinist
Became a Dentist about 1895
Married Marinda 1902 in Old Mexico by A W Ivins
Calvin, Minnie and Marinda were sealed to Arthur in the Logan Temple
Exodus from Mexico 1911
Set apart as Stake Patriarch
Died July 26, 1917 at Blackfoot Bingham Co. Idaho

The Clark family had lived in Colchester, Essex, England. It was here that the Mormon Elders taught the family the Gospel and converted them. Arthur's parents and older sisters were baptized. His mother Elizabeth and father Daniel found themselves victims of ridicule. Their children were denied admission to the local schools. When the army proposed to put soldiers in their home, Daniel took his family and moved to Barking, near London. Daniel had served as branch president in Colchester. He also served as Branch President in Barking.

Elder Charles W. Penrose labored in England as a missionary while the Clark family lived at Barking. Arthur remembers sitting upon his lap as the family would gather in song. Brother Penrose wrote many of our LDS Hymns. Daniel was a musician and played the concertina and a six sided accordion. When Arthur was very young he begged to play the concertina. His father told him he was too young. Arthur managed to get to the concertina and practiced secretly while his father was working at the shoe store. One day as Daniel returned from his work, he could hear a tune being played on the concertina, and being played very well. Upon entering the house, he found Arthur engrossed in his playing. He complimented Arthur on his skill and gave him permission to play the concertina whenever he wished. Arthur learned to play the tin whistle, the piccolo, fife and flute well. He also learned to play the coronet or trumpet. He sang many solos during his life and accompanied himself on the organ. He mastered the violin and became the best violinist in any of the pioneer settlements. He was a natural musician and the violin was his favorite instrument.

As with most early converts to the Church, the Clarks had a great desire to emigrate to Zion. By 1961 they sent their three oldest daughters. It was not until June 3, 1864 that they were finally able to sail from England on the ship "Hudson". George Careless was also a musician aboard ship and perhaps they had music crossing the sea, and land to the great valley of Salt Lake City. It was a five month journey which ended November 3, 1864.

It took seven weeks to cross the ocean and due to the Civil war they took the Canadian route to Omaha, Nebraska, then south to Omaha to begin the rest of their journey to Utah by ox team. They were in the William Hyde company. Daniel, took his turn guarding the cattle at night, and worked long hours repairing shoes for the family and others in the company. Exposure and work made him ill and he died Aug. 28, 1864 along the bank of the North Platte River, near Kearny Nebraska. This was a crushing blow to the family.

When they arrived at the valley, the three older sisters greeted them with joy but what sorrow to learn of their fathers passing. Elizabeth and the children stayed with the married daughters in Grantsville.

When Arthur grew to manhood, he was six foot 3 inches, weighed about 220 pounds. He had very dark hair and hazel eyes. Most of his adult life, he wore a full beard. He held many leadership positions, especially choir director. He was a very fine singer and had an excellent range -- high tenor to low bass. He was in great demand for programs due to his ability to entertain and enjoyed mimicking. The song of the Bear Lake Monster, was his favorite piece.

Arthur was a practicing polygamist and was trying to avoid the U.S. Marshals who would imprison anyone who was so practicing. He took his family to Afton Wyoming to avoid them. Star Valley was first settled by the Clarks along with other polygamists. Arthur Clark was made presiding Elder over the church members of the Salt River Valley. It was at his home, that sunday school, primary, socials were held as well as the mail delivery outpost.

The Freedom Ward was organized June 17, 1891 where Arthur was called as Bishop. George Osmond was called as Stake President of the Star Valley Stake, organized August, 1892. In 1896 A. B. Clark was the Choir Director, with Raymond as organist. Aunt Marinda Griffiths, sang alto and Helen (Nellie) was the soprano. The bass and tenor each had about four men. Arthur was an energetic but unpretentious leader. They learned many songs and sang them well. "During the first 25 years of his married life, father (Arthur) enjoyed and continued to contribute to the lighter side of life when time and occasion would permit. He enjoyed good clean jokes and funny stories. He knew dozens of them and could mimic any man, woman or child so that the listeners could imagine the person being mimicked. He was a good entertainer both with the violin and as a singer. In either of the Star Valleys, he was the most popular man singer from 1885 to 1900. The song of the Bear Lake Monster was the most called for in parties and dances and the most entertaining in the funny class." (Taken from The Clark About, January, 1966, Number 2, Compilation of History of A B Clark)

Arthur learned the profession of making false teeth. He went all over the valley, from Star Valley, to Bear Lake Valley, Salt Lake City, to Bountiful extracting teeth and making dentures. His quality was excellent for the time, lasting 30 to 40 years.

(He pulled Achsah's teeth after she married to Calvin. It was supposed that ill health was caused by poor teeth, so he extracted Achsah's teeth. This experience must have been very painful, for she never saw a doctor again even if her life depended on it.)

Persecution came to Star Valley from the U.S. Marshals. Arthur Clark, along with Byron Harvey Allred Jr., and Warren Longhurst, decided to move to Mexico to live polygamy without harassment and imprisonment. Arthur married Ethel A. Shirly and a divorced woman, Marinda Griffith McOmber. They moved to Mexico in 1903.
The Clark record states that Arthur B. Clark went into Old Mexico and married his two new wives in 1903 by President A.W. Ivins. Because it was a federal offense to marry another wife in the U.S., he married them in New Mexico where it was accepted by the church and the land.

"Father (Arthur B Clark) gained the consent of 'Aunt Marinda' E. Griffith of Grover and also Ethel Adolophia Shirley, a novel convert from Mississippi, to become his plural wives. Father, with Helen and her unmarried children, Harvey Allred and Warren Longhurst, with their new companions, went into Mexico in 1903, and were married by President W. W.Ivins".

Calvin D. McOmber Sr. says that they (Marinda, Calvin, and Minnie) were later sealed in the Logan temple in 1909 to Arthur B. Clark after they returned from Mexico.

Most of the Clark family went to Mexico.

After the Mexican exodus, Arthur practiced dentistry in Wyoming, Idaho, and Utah for six years. He joined the Blackfoot ward and lived with his wife Mary.
Later he had a serious car accident and died from injuries. At the funeral President Duckworth of Blackfoot Stake stated that, in his short acquaintance with Arthur B. Clark , he considered him a man who felt that his family was his glory, and also that he was a man who "sought and honored the Kingdom of God before any other pursuit in life."

At the time of his death, Arthur had been approved by the First Presidency of the Church to be sustained at the next regular session of the Quarterly Conference, as Patriarch of the Blackfoot stake. It may be interesting to note that three of his sons, Raymond Clark, Calvin D. Mcomber and George H. Clark, and a grandson, Calvin D. Mcomber Jr. have served as Patriarchs in their respective Stakes. He was a very loved and honored man by his children, his step children, and his posterity.

Calvin Delos McOmber spoke very highly of his step father, Arthur, and named his third child after him. He loved his large Clark family and felt like a real brother to the sons of the families. He was treated kindly and happily enjoyed many hours of their great spirit and friendship. His step brother George was very beloved to Calvin. He named his second son after George. He related many happy memories of horse back riding, sledding, and musical experiences with the Clarks.

Calvin Delos mcOmber with his Clark brothers at a Clark family reunion in the 60's: Orlan, Orson, Ray, George, LeRoy, Calvin McOmber Sr., Orson, Shirley, Lucius, and Fred.
The Clark family as Calvin knew them when he was young. Calvin's closest brother was George. He named his son after George, also a grandson is so named.
Front: Frederik, Marion, George H., Orlan, LeRoy, Clayton, Ray
Back: Shirley, Alma, Darrill, Wallace, Orson, Parley, Lawrence, Nephi, Lucius, and Ernest Taken about 1902
Arthur's Patriarchal Blessing

A BLESSING GIVEN BY LORENZO HILL HATCH, PATRIARCH UPON THE HEAD OF ARTHUR BENJAMIN CLARK: Son of Daniel Clark and Elizabeth Gowen, born March 22nd, 1854, in Barking Essex, England.

Dear Brother Arthur,
At your request, I lay my hands upon your head and in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, I seal upon you a Patriarchal and Fathers Blessing. The Lord is well pleased with the integrity of thy heart and will bestow upon you as He has done great blessings even beyond the comprehension of finite man. Behold, I say unto you the angels of the Lord have watched over you and your life has been wonderfully preserved, that you might fulfill the covenants and obligations that was made before you came from the spirit world. You understand the nature of the great work of the last days to be born of goodly parents and to stand as a minister of life and salvation. Your testimony has gone forth. Your words of warning shall continue to be given with much assurance for thou knowest that God lives and that His purposes shall be accomplished. You shall stand at the head according to your right in your Fathers House and the head of a mighty race, as a Savior upon mount Zion. Behold your dead shall rise up and call you blessed and your posterity shall perpetuate your name through all generations and of your increase there shall be no end. The Prophets declared concerning your day when saviors should come upon Mount Zion. Thou art one of them.

A descendant through the loins of Ephraim and entitled to all the blessings of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. I seal upon your head the spirit of prophesy and revelation. Lift up your voice long and loud and fear not. It is your privilege to assist in the redemption of the Center stake of Zion and witness the overthrow of the ungodly. You shall also be able to abide the coming of our Lord and Savior and shall stand upon the Earth when the reigns of government pass from the wicked into the hands of the just. The magnitude of your blessing cannot be written. It pertains to this world and the world and eternities that are to come. There is a mansion prepared for you and all your Fathers house. Continue therefore and officiate in your calling as it shall be revealed from time to time. You shall be associated with Apostles and Prophets. These blessings are yours through your faithfulness with a crown of Eternal life. I seal them upon your head with your former blessings that you may be exalted with wives and posterity to reign as a King and Priest in the Celestial Kingdom in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.