California Tent by Joseph Harvey Waggoner

Pacific Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Oakland, Cal. · Jul 29, 1875

California Tent.

By Joseph Harvey Waggoner

We took down the tent in Gilroy, Monday, July 19, and pitched it the same day in Hollister. We were favored in the location, as we now find that we have the best place in the village.

Hollister is beautifully located in a narrow valley near the San Benito River. The valley of the river, which is also called San Juan, opens directly toward the ocean, and the wind blows every day with great force. Having a double top the tent is not so easily handled in a wind as if it were a single top and we have concluded that it is necessary to procure more ropes, and put extra guards upon it to secure it from the violence of the winds. No one who has not experienced it can well imagine the effect of such winds over a plain which has no rain for months. Yesterday afternoon we were reminded of the driving snow storms on the prairies. The air was filled with dust, and everything in the tent became covered with it. But the wind as invariably goes down every night, leaving a pleasant time for meetings. The interest to hear thus far is good; the congregations have increased in numbers from the first, and they seem mostly to appreciate the force of the truths spoken.

We heard only discouraging words concerning this place before we came here, of the high winds, cold nights, alkali water, &c., but we felt constantly impressed that it was duty to make an effort here. We ask the prayers of all who love the truth that we may be prospered in our efforts.

I have been agreeably disappointed in one respect in this State. The order in the tent meetings is as good as I ever saw in any State, and the tent and everything about it remains undisturbed both by day and night. It seems providential, and we are thankful for peace and quiet in our temporary home.

J. H. WAGGONER.