Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Lt 136, 1909

Starr, G. B.

St. Helena, California

October 14, 1909

This letter is published in entirety in 10MR 232-233.

Elder G. B. Starr

Dear Brother:

I have seen representations of several locations in high altitudes that should be secured for sanitarium purposes. Your description of the property forty-eight miles from New York City seems to correspond to these representations. In such places the air is bracing and induces deep breathing, which is very beneficial. And the offer of this property for twenty-five thousand dollars or less seems to be very reasonable. 24LtMs, Lt 136, 1909, par. 1

I hope that Doctor Kress and others will examine this piece of property. I would be in favor of purchasing it if it commends itself to the best judgment of our brethren who see it. I am pleased with the description you have given, and especially of the water privileges. Some improvements would doubtless have to be made, but these need not all be put in at once. Strict economy should be exercised. It seems to me that our people should be able to raise the amount necessary for its purchase and equipment for sanitarium use. 24LtMs, Lt 136, 1909, par. 2

Our cities are to be worked with the third angel’s message. Notwithstanding the light that has been given, there seems to be but little accomplished so far. 24LtMs, Lt 136, 1909, par. 3

The place that we have just purchased here in California for our school contains wonderful advantages. It is situated on Howell Mountain, five miles from the sanitarium. There are over sixteen hundred acres of land in the property, one hundred five of which is good, arable land. There are twenty acres of orchard, bearing apples, pears, plums, prunes, peaches, figs, grapes, and English and black walnuts. There are thirty acres of alfalfa. Forty-five tons of prunes have been gathered from the orchard this year, and two thousand quarts of canned fruit were in the cellar when the place was purchased. 24LtMs, Lt 136, 1909, par. 4

The buildings are well planned and are completely furnished. There is an abundance of splendid water. The barn is filled with fine alfalfa hay. There are twenty good milk cows, thirteen horses, and six colts, and vehicles of various kinds. 24LtMs, Lt 136, 1909, par. 5

We attended the dedication two weeks ago; and although I was very weak and weary, I took part in the exercises. The last report from the school was that there were about seventy students in the home, and more are coming in from time to time. We are thankful to God that He has enabled us to secure this valuable property for school purposes. 24LtMs, Lt 136, 1909, par. 6