Much has been written about Palmyra, the Sacred Grove and the Hill
Cumorah in the early years of the Church. But what became of those
historic sites after the Prophet Joseph Smith and his family left their
small farm in upstate New York? The properties fell into the hands of
non-Mormons who became increasingly more prejudiced and belligerent in
their hatred towards the Church and its followers.The Saints were driven
out of their New York home in 1831. It wasn't until June 10, 1907, that
Apostle George Albert Smith was able to purchase the farm for the sum
of $16,000. Seven years later, he deeded the property to the Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for $1.00.After gaining possession of
the farm, the Church Authorities were faced with the task of finding a
suitable family to occupy it. They needed a man, a fighting man, who
could not only farm the land and care for the property but make friends
and eventually converts in the hostile community. Those essential
qualities were found in Willard Washington Bean.The trials and
experiences of the following 24 years are noteworthy as well as
interesting and inspiring. The experiences that shaped the lives of
Willard and his wife Rebecca Peterson, prior to this call give insight
into their growing testimonies and willingness to serve their Heavenly
Father. These stories will inspire and uplift and entertain all whose
who desire o learn more about the early history of the Church of Jesus
Christ and the trials of the Saints.This book has recently been brought
to the big screen with the full length feature film in T. C.
Christensen's: "Willard Bean - The Fighting Preacher."