Evan Call Family - 19330326

Historical Context

This letter was written on March 26, 1933, by Evan's father Thomas to Evan. It offers a remarkable, firsthand look at one of the most critical weeks in American economic history.

Thomas’s anxiety over insurance premiums and potentially delinquent taxes reflects the broader financial distress of American households. Because families couldn't afford to keep missionaries out in the field, the overall missionary workforce plummeted across the world, explaining Thomas's comment that "the boys are returning in all parts of the church."

Afton, Wyo. Mar. 26th 1933.

Dear Son Evan:

We appreciate your position in the Eastern States Mission. With only a few Elders there and some of them but now longer than yourself, you do not feel that you are doing your part to leave them when you are needed so badly. We have only you and Richard Burton out from the ward here at present. The boys are returning in all parts of the church, no doubt, and only few are obtainable to fill their vacancies in the mission.

You know our financial resources here at home. My income is uncertain. All I can say is I will continue to do what I can to get you money, if it is for the best that you stay a while longer. May be you could arrange your time to return latter part of June, or first July so we would not have to send money after June 15th. That would give you about two and one half months over two years counting time as we do here,

which will date from Apr 18th.

I think you had better not plan on staying longer than that date., my insurance is due in July. Taxes may have to go delinquent. The 10.00 per month less should help some.

I am happy that you are contented enough that you are willing to remain. But I may say that your life naturely will not be so free and happy after you come home. Now that your are into the work there, altho' you carry a lot of responsibility, is it not true that you are having a joy unequalled outside the ministry of the Lord.

We are enjoying health. And we are thankful for all the blessings we we have.

The last month has been a real winter month, six below zero night of 24th. Weather is warming some now and we feel that spring will soon come.

Write soon as to what Pres. Moyle thinks of your time to come home July 1st, not later.

Your Father,

Thomas J. Call,

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