Reunion

Technique & Style

Figurative, Sculpture

Figures

pioneer

Notes

“After Manti was settled by the Latter-day Saints in 1849, Hannah Blakeslee Morley had a faith-trying experience with the Indian inhabitants of the region. One day Chief Wakara surrounded Manti with many warriors and demanded the custody of Hannah’s baby, Simeon, as a test of the sincerity of Isaac Morley in giving them supplies. He threatened to kill the villagers if the baby was not handed over. Knowing the Indians were capable of carrying out this threat, Hannah handed over her baby. The parents spent a sleepless night in fasting and prayer. The next day, Chief Wakara returned to the fort gate with Simeon. The child was dressed in complete Indian costume, including colorful, beaded moccasins, and with his body stained brown. He said, ‘Your squaw feel bad. I bring him back.’ My statue is of Hannah Morley and her child Simeon at his return.” —Benjamin Hammond

Exhibition History:

• “Our Heritage of Faith,” Church History Museum online exhibition, 2005

Church Name

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints