Historical Context

This letter, dated May 26, 1932, was written by Leland Stephens, who had recently returned home from his mission. It captures a candid and somewhat anxious moment in Leland's life as he returns to the realities of the Great Depression at home.

Leland’s mention of "no knew-job [new job] awaiting you" and his goal to eventually find a "sails [sales] job" reflects the massive unemployment of the era. For returning missionaries, the transition from spiritual service back to a collapsed economy was often jarring.

U.A.C. refers to the Utah Agricultural College, now known as Utah State University (USU) in Logan.

Decoration Day is now known as Memorial Day. Leland's travel schedule (Logan to Provo to Santaquin to Ogden) shows a busy itinerary typical of a young man reconnecting with family and social circles after a long absence.