In July 1862, Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain, a 33-year-old professor at Bowdoin College, received a two year leave from the College to pursue his studies in Europe. However, exactly one year later, Chamberlain would find himself on a hill in Gettysburg called “Little Round Top”. His orders were to hold his positions at all cost. Out numbered and out of ammunition, they could not withstand another assault. They had to strike first. Colonel Chamberlain gave the order to his 20th Maine in one word. “Bayonet!!!!”

Chamberlain graduated from Bowdoin with highest honors in 1852. He then entered Bangor Theological Seminary where, along with regular courses, he studied Arabic and oriental languages. After graduation, Bowdoin College immediately offered him a position as special instructor in the department of natural and revealed religion. The next year he was elected professor of rhetoric and oratory and later appointed instructor of French and Germain. Now (July 1862), as a professor of Modern Languages of Europe, he was preparing for a well earned leave to study abroad.¹

Unfortunately, the war of secession was not going well for the Union. In a series of battles (June 25-July 1, 1862), the Confederate army under General Robert E. Lee drove back General George B. McClellan’s Union forces and thwarted the Northern attempt to capture the Confederate capital of Richmond, Virginia.² On July 2, 1862, President Abraham Lincoln put out a desperate call for more troops.

Joshua Chamberlain immediately tendered his services to the Governor for any military duty for which he might be capable.¹

Lieutenant Colonel Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain

Chamberlain’s decision to join the military was strenuously opposed by his colleagues in the faculty who filed a formal protest. Nevertheless, he felt it was his patriotic duty. After all, he had attended Major Whiting’s military academy at Ellsworth, Maine, where he prepared for West Point. However, by 1848 the Mexican-American war was over. And therefore, he chose to attend Bowdoin College.¹

The army offered him a rank of colonel to lead a new regiment, but he deemed it wiser to first serve under an officer of the regular army.¹ He was appointed lieutenant-colonel of the 20th Maine infantry under Colonial Adelbert Ames was a young officer who graduated from West Point in 1861, and was recognized for gallantry in the first battle at Bull Run.^3a

Chamberlain began duty on August 8, 1862, and by the end of the month, completed the organization of the one-thousand man regiment. The new regiment was assigned to Butterfield’s famous Light Brigade in the Fifth Corps of the Army of the Potomac.¹

Antietam, Maryland

The battle of Antietam was one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil war. During the carnage of September 17, 1862, the inexperienced 20th Maine was held in reserve. Their first sharp encounter with the enemy came three days later.

On September 20, they waded through Shepherdstown Ford of the Potomac in pursuit of Lee’s retreating army. Union artillery gave them some cover. A few units of the Fifth Corps crossed into Virginia the day before. Therefore, Stonewall Jackson hurried A. P. Hill’s troops to the high ground overlooking the river. Their repulse began when the 20th Maine and others were in the water.¹

As soon as they reached the Virginia shore the bugles sounded from the Maryland side calling for a hasty retreat. Incessant rifle fire from the bluff soon surrounded them with little water spouts. Seemingly unperturbed, Chamberlain calmly steadied his men through the treacherous water. Sitting on a white horse in the middle of the Potomac made him an inviting target. The confederates missed him, but his horse was shot out from under him. He soon arrived back in Maryland as wet as any of his men.^3b

Antietam was not the complete victory President Lincoln hoped for. Nevertheless, they chased Lee out of Maryland, and that would have to do. On September 22, 1862, he issued the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, announcing that, if the rebels did not end the fighting and rejoin the Union by January 1, 1863, all slaves in the rebellious states would be free. This boosted moral of the Union and dissuaded European powers from backing the confederacy.¹

A new commander, General Ambrose E. Burnside

President Lincoln replaced General George B. McClellan for not pursuing Lee more aggressively.  McClellan passed command of the Union army to General Ambrose E. Burnside on November 7, 1862.

Burnside organized his army into three Grand Divisions. The Right Grand Division under Major General Edwin V. Sumner, the Left Grand Division under Major General William B. Franklin, and the Center Grand Division under Major General Joseph Hooker. Hooker was commander of the Fifth Corps which included the 20th Maine.^3c

The battle of Fredricksburg, Virginia

Burnside knew that a more aggressive move was called for and proposed marching on Fredricksburg with the goal of moving south to Richmond ahead of Lee’s army.

A shipment of Pontoons needed to cross the Rappahannock River were greatly delayed. When they finally arrived, the window of opportunity had passed. Nevertheless, Burnside preceded with the plan. Lee’s 72,000 men were now dug in on highly defensive ground. Chamberlain was not at all impressed with the new commander.

A small brigade of rebel sharp shooters in Fredricksburg held off the 116,000 man Union army by firing on the bridge construction engineers. The Union responded by pulverizing the town with an artillery barrage and sent in infantry to flush out the small group of defenders.^3c

The army began crossing the Rappahannock on December 12. Burnside ordered Franklin to attack Lee’s right flank and roll it up, and Sumner to drive through the center left at Marye’s Heights. Hookers Division was held in reserve on the north side of the river to be used where needed.

The stone wall on Marye’s Heights

The Heights, on the other side of Fredricksburg, were defended by a stone wall behind which defenders stood three deep on a sunken road bed. The results of the attack at this location was a bloody catastrophe as wave after wave of Union soldiers were mowed down. In the meantime, Franklin’s attempt to roll up Lee’s right flank failed. Believing his superior numbers could break through, Burnside persisted in the assault.

On December 13, the 20th Maine crossed the narrow crowded pontoon bridge. It swerved and swayed. Horses were rearing and men lost their balance. Artillery shells were exploding all around. It was a nerve wracking experience.

They moved through Fredricksburg then toward the heights, stepping over and around the bodies of the fallen dead and wounded. The stone wall ahead appeared as a solid sheet of flame. At the final crest they dug in and exchanged volleys until dark.

There was little sleep to be had that night laying in the blood and mud next to the dead and moaning wounded. The cold wind prompted some to borrow coats from those who no longer needed it. Chamberlain, who had covered himself with the flap of an overcoat, was startled when someone tried to pull it away. The man jumped in freight when Chamberlain spoke to him.

At  dawn, about 200 confederates came from behind the stone wall to fire on their left flank where they had little protection. Quickly, the troops gathered the dead to build a breastwork of bodies. They crouched or laid there all day and somehow survived. That night they received orders to withdraw.^3d In the dead of night, they began the march back through the ghastly scene toward Fredricksburg.

The 20th Maine bivouacked in the streets of Fredricksburg for the rest of the night, where they endured constant shelling from confederate artillery.

Lookout out for them Yanks!

On the afternoon of the 15th, there was a rumor brought by prisoners that Stonewall Jackson was about to swoop down on the right side of town and drive the whole Union army into the river. Chamberlain had little doubt that he could do it. At night fall, the 20th Maine and two other regiments were again sent out to the front to cover movements of the enemy. Their orders: “Hold to the last.” Last of what? Chamberlain wondered.^3e

The men quickly dug in to build a protective mound of earth between them and the enemy. The Southern trenches were so close they could hear the anxious chatter of the enemy. Chamberlain crept along in the dark to check his defenses. He noticed one man digging his fox hole incorrectly. “Throw to the other side, my man. That is where the danger is!” Chamberlain corrected.

“Don’t ya s’pose I know which side them Yanks be?!!! came his retort.

Hiding his surprise, Chamberlain responded in his best southern accent, “Dig away then, but keep a right sharp lookout.” Then walked swiftly away.^3f

“The whole army is across the river!”

They had just finished the trenches when a staff officer rushed in with a message “Get out of here as quick as God will let you, the whole army is across the river.”

Chamberlain was startled, not at the message, but that it was so loud that the enemy was alerted to the army’s retreat. “Steady in your places men, this is a stampeding coward! Arrest this man as a spy, and hold fast your lines.”.^3f

His voice tone calmed his men and the enemy alike. They held the line for a time, then slowly and calmly the odd numbered men of the regiment dropped back about 100 yards and formed a new battle line. Then the even numbered men alternately repeated the maneuver.

The pitch black stormy night aided their stealth retreat. However, a brief break in the clouds made their muskets glisten in the moonlight. A musket cracked in the distance and a volley of musket balls passed over their heads as the men hit the ground. When the clouds closed in and darkened the moon again, the quiet retreat continued.^3g

When they got back to Fredricksburg they found the army was gone and the shattered town completely deserted. Dead were seen everywhere on sidewalks roads and home porches.  There were some wounded who could not be moved and some devoted surgeons and medical staff who volunteered to stay for their care.

The 20th Maine had buried their four dead and carried out their 32 wounded. The ghostly quiet town prompted great anxiety that they had arrived too late to cross the river. However, they made it in time and as soon as the last man crossed into Maryland, the cables were cut and the pontoons removed.

Chancellorsville, Virginia

Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain’s part at the battle of Chancellorsville was not what he wanted or expected. They were detailed to guard the telegraph line from Falmouth to General Hooker’s headquarters.^3h This assignment may have been given because some men in his regiment had contracted smallpox. They were sequestered and put into a quarantine camp by itself.

When Colonel Ames was detached as an aide on the staff of the corps commander, General Meade, left the regiment in command of Lt. Colonel Chamberlain. Chamberlain immediately rode to general headquarters and begged to have his regiment given some place at the front. His request was denied. In frustration, he presented his final plea, “if we can’t do anything else, we can give the rebels the smallpox!”¹

Calming a mutiny

On May 20, 1863  Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain was promoted to Colonel. A short time later a hundred and twenty men of the Second Maine Volunteers were transferred to his regiment. They were in a state of mutiny. Though they had signed up for three years, they had served as long or longer, but were not being discharged with men with two-year contracts. They had openly refused to obey orders and they were sent to Colonel Chamberlain under guard of a Pennsylvania regiment with loaded rifles and fixed bayonets. Orders from the corps commander were to fire on them if they refused duty.

Colonel Chamberlain immediately rode to General Meade and got permission to manage the men in his own way. He then took off all the guard, supplied them with proper clothing and food, and assigned them to companies without giving them any specific orders. He expected them to be treated and behave like other soldiers. They caused no more trouble except for a couple of men who were tried by court martial. The men from the Second Maine were afterwards among his very best.¹

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

After Robert E. Lee’s great victory at Chancellorsville, the confidant General decided to take the offensive in the north. General George Mead replaced Joseph Hooker as commander of the Army of the Potomac on June 28, 1863. On June 30 Lee was in southern Pennsylvania with Mead in pursuit. They met in the small town of Gettysburg on July 1, 1863.

Little Round Top

On the morning of July 2, 1863 the Union established their battle lines. In the great confusion, General Daniel Sickles of the Third Corps, failed to protect a very strategic position, a boulder laden hill called Little Round Top. If this location were held by the confederates, they could rain cannon fire down on cemetery ridge and most of the Union army.

That afternoon, General Meade sent General G. K. Warren, to assess the situation on Little Round Top. Warren was horrified to find Little Round Top completely undefended. He hastily sent messengers to Meade and Sickles requesting immediate assistance. By then Sickles was engaged in battle and had no troops to spare.⁴

Colonel Strong Vincent’s 3rd Brigade

Colonel Strong Vincent commanded the 3rd Brigade in the 1st Division of the Fifth Corps.  A harried courier informed him of the immediate threat at Little Round Top. Vincent led his men to the hill at the double-quick and lined his four regiments along the south-western base of the hill. These regiments, placed from right to left, were the (356 man)16th Michigan, (313 man) 44th New York, (308 man) 83rd Pennsylvania and the (358 man) 20th Maine under Colonel Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain.⁴

Vincent left Chamberlain with the following instructions: “I place you here. This is the left of the Union line. You understand? You are to hold this ground at all cost!” .³ⁱ

Immediately after Vincent’s troops had taken up their positions, the (415 man) 4th Texas and (409 man) 5th Texas regiments, of General John B. Hood’s division, charged up the slope. The battle was fierce and Colonel Vincent was mortally wounded. Under the massive assault, the right-center defensive line was greatly weakened and on the verge of collapse. Colonel Patrick O’Rorke’s (526 man) 140th New York rushed in and saved and greatly strengthened the right flank of 3rd Brigade.⁴

Colonel Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain’s 20th Maine

Chamberlain was to protect the left flank of 3rd Brigade which was the left flank of the whole Union army. However, he also had to protect his own exposed left flank. He lined up nine companies (314 men) in a right angle so that his formation faced both the south and the east.

He stationed his (44 man) Company B, led by Captain Walter G. Morrill in a ravine to the far left.  They were separated from, but within supporting distance of the main regiment. They were to act as needed. A fourteen man squad of Major Homer Stoughton’s 2nd U. S. Sharpshooters, armed with .52 caliber breechloading rifles, was attached to Company B.⁴

The Confederate action quickly extended toward the left flank. Soon, the 20th Maine was engaged in fierce combat with the (275 man) 4th Alabama and part of the (133 man) 47th Alabama.

Lieutenant James Nichols of K Company summoned Chamberlain’s immediate attention. There was more trouble just over the horizon.

Chamberlain leaped onto a boulder where he could see “thick groups in grey” between the two round tops. They were marching toward his left flank. It was Colonel William C. Oates’ (499 man) 15th Alabama^3j who had just hiked 25 miles in 11 hours. They were worn and thirsty, but eager to erase the thin blue line that now held the key to victory.

Colonel William C. Oates’ 15th Alabama

The Alabamans made their assault on Chamberlain’s front and what they believed would be his exposed left. However, to their surprise, every tree and rock seemed to suddenly explode with bursts of fire and smoke. The Alabamans fell back to regroup and then attack the two fronts with even more vigor and greater numbers.

Again and again was this mad rush repeated, each time to be beaten off by the ever thinning line that desperately clung to it’s ledge of rocks. -Captain Howard Prince, 20th Maine.^3k

The line moved back and forward over and over again. Oates thought his Alabamans had penetrated Maine’s stubborn defense five times, but each time the Northerners somehow drove them back. The action seemed to go on forever. Chamberlain compared the line of action to ocean waves against the shore:

The edge of conflict swayed to and fro, with whirlpools and eddies. Gaps opening, swallowing, closing again with sharp convulsive energy… All around, strange mingled roar, shouts of defiance, rally and desperation. -Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain^3k

The flag was still there

Company F, which included the color guard, was at the apex of Chamberlain’s 90 degree angle formation. When some sudden brutal crossfire hit the center of his regiment, Chamberlain feared that the color guard had been annihilated. However, when the smoke cleared, he was relieved to again see his three color-bearers. It was especially remarkable to see Sergeant Andrew J. Tozier with his left arm wrapped around the flag, loading, firing and reloading a borrowed rifle.^5a

“Ammunition!”

After repelling the third assault, their situation was critical. About one third of Chamberlain’s men had fallen. His right foot was bleeding from a wound and his left leg was badly bruised when a Minnie ball hit his sword scabbard.^3l

He then heard a terrifying demand from his own men. “Ammunition!”, they shouted.

The regiment had shot off almost 25,000 rounds, nearly depleting the 60 round per man allotment. They gathered ammunition from the dead and wounded on the slope but there was little to be found.^3m

The 47th Alabama opened fire on Captain Ellis Spears’ left wing, and the formidable 15th Alabamans were now orderly moving toward the center with quiet determination. With no ammunition the 20th Maine could not stand another assault. They had to strike before they were hit with overwhelming force.^6a

The rebels were now thirty yards away and pressing forward up the hill.^5a

“Bayonet!!!”

Chamberlain told Lieutenant Holman Melcher of F company to prepare for the order, “right wheel forward” of the entire regiment. Melcher stepped out in front. Tozier lifted up the colors.

Chamberlain yelled his order in one word, “Bayonet!!!”³ⁿ

“One word was enough. It ran like fire from man to man.”^6a All eyes were now focused on the banner of red, white and blue.

Melcher listened for the steel on steel clatter to subside as blades were fixed in place. He then leaped forward, his drawn sword flashed in the sunlight.³ⁿ Sergeant Tozier’s flag billowed as it moved forward through the air. About two hundred wildly shouting men with steel blades were now charging down the hill toward the bewildered enemy.

Captain Ellis Spears’ was already under fire. His company was the first to introduce themselves to the rebels and flush them out from between the rocks. A scattering of the enemy in the advanced position had only time to chose between surrender and cold steel.^5b

Chamberlain’s other eight companies were close behind. The surprised Alabamans were in a state of confusion and panic. One Confederate officer drew his pistol and fired it point blank at Chamberlain’s face. He missed, or the pistol miss fired. He threw down his weapons and surrendered at the point of Chamberlain’s sword.³ⁿ

Captain Walter G. Morrill’s Company B

The second line of Alabamans had time to regain their composure. They headed for a stone wall. From there they could certainly make a stand and turn the tide on their ammunition impaired rivals.

However, hope quickly turned to shock and panic when fifty-eight men in blue or green uniforms arose from behind a wall with rifles blazing. It was Captain Morrill’s Company B and the squad of sharpshooters that Oates had driven off of Big Round Top.

Now under attack from front and rear, Oates gave the order to retreat. However, he did not anticipate the severe panic that would follow. “We ran like a herd of cattle”, Oates later admitted.^3o 

Company B’s position, which was separate from the rest of the regiment, had not been under assault from the rebels. Therefore, they had the needed ammunition to turn panic into a route.^6b

The road to Richmond

The 20th Maine was like a swinging gate. While still hinged to the 83rd Pennsylvania on their right, their sweep completely cleared the southern slope of Little Round Top. Chamberlain’s men were on a roll and nothing could stop them. Some declared they were on the road to Richmond.^3o

When they reached the front of the 44th New York, Chamberlain called a halt, got his men under control and returned his regiment to their assigned position.

Securing Big Round Top

That night Chamberlain received a message from brigade commander Colonel James C. Rice. They were to secure the heights of Big Round Top where the 15th Alabama had fled. The ammunition and re-enforcements requests had not arrived. So once again he called on his weary but heroic men to press up the mountain through the darkness with bayonet alone.¹

They secured that part of the field and captured 25 more prisoners from the 4th Texas. This brought the total number captured to almost 400.^1,3p

Brigade commander

At about noon on July 3, 1863, the 3rd Brigade which includes the 20th Maine, was relieved of their stations at the Round Tops. And after replenishing their cartridge boxes, they moved about a mile up the battle line near Fifth Corps headquarters.

There, as they were away from the from front line action, they received numerous visitors who had heard of the bayonet charge and had to get more details. Chamberlain’s first mentor, now Brigadier General Ames, was first to congratulate him.^5c

All of Chamberlain’s superiors recommended him for promotion to the rank of brigadier-general for heroic conduct on Little Round Top. The promotion was not made, but Colonel Chamberlain was immediately placed in command of his brigade.¹

Spencer Chamberlain

Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain is a descendant of William and Rebecca Chamberlain, William immigrated to America in 1635. Spencer Chamberlain, also a descendant of William, is a 3rd cousin twice removed of Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain.

On September 11, 1814, 14,000 elite British soldiers invaded Plattsburgh, New York. Only about 2000 American ground troops were there to hold the city against this overwhelming force. Spencer Chamberlain was with the Vermont 31st Infantry. Their orders were to defend Fort Brown in Plattsburg “to the last man”. Chapter 17- Spencer Chamberlain in the Battle of Plattsburgh

© Copyright Dennis D. Chamberlain, All rights reserved. The Chamberlain Story, 2022.

References:

1- George Thomas Little and A. M. Litt. D. Lewis The Genealogical and Family History of the State of Maine, Historical Society Publishing Company, New York, 1909.

2- Seven days battles, https://www.britannica.com/

3- Willard M. Wallace, Soul of a Lion, A Biography of General Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain
Page numbers: a p.38, b p.42, c p51, d p.55, e p.56, f p.57, g p.58-59, h p.67, i p.92, j p.93, k p.97, l p.100, m p.101, n p.102, o p.103, p p.107. q cover photo

4- Defense of Little Round Top, https://www.battlefields.org/learn/articles/defense-little-round-top

5- Edward D. Longacre, Joshua Chamberlain, The Soldier and the Man, Combined Publishing, 1999
Page numbers: a p.137, b p.142, c p.149

6- John J. Pullen, Joshua Chamberlain, A Hero’s Life and Legacy, Stackpole Books, 1999
Page numbers: a p.140, b p.144

7- James B. Vickery, Walter G. Morrill: The Fighting Colonel of the Twentieth Maine, 1968, University of Maine Special Collections. Little Round Top

The Chamberlain Story has often told of the importance of the temple in the lives of members of our family. During this Easter and Passover season I have been thinking about the connection between Latter-day Saint temples and the ordinance of Passover, and how to prepare for the promise of peace that these may bring to those living at the time the Savior returns to the Earth. Readers may also find interesting my interpretation of the recent prophetic fulfillment of Revelations 7:9-10.

“Come, O Thou King of Kings”

According to a 2006 survey by the Pew Research Center’s Forum on Religion & Public Life, 79% of Christians in the U.S. say they believe that Christ will return to Earth someday. However, they are in less agreement over the timing and circumstances of his return. Only 20% of the respondents in 2006 said they believed he would come in their lifetime.³

Latter-day Saints express great joy and longing for that day in many hymns. “Come, O Thou King of Kings, we’ve waited long for thee.” When Christ will “make an end to sin, and cleanse the Earth by fire”. However, one’s desire to live during this time in history may diminish when we realize this event will be preceded by a time of great tribulation.

For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be. And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect’s sake those days shall be shortened. (Matt 24:21-22)

When Christ comes in his glory, he will judge the people of all nations. On his right hand will be those who care for the needy and have compassion for others. The Father will prepare a kingdom for them. (Matthew 25:32-33) Good people of all religions, and even no religion, will be on the earth after the return of the Lord.

Nevertheless, it will be a terrifying time for those who live through these years of tribulation. However, a promise of peace is given to those who follow the Lord’s instructions, that the “destroying angel shall pass by them, as the children of Israel”. (D&C 89:21)

The Jewish holiday of Passover

The Jewish people have celebrated the holiday of Passover for over 3300 years. It is a celebration of God’s miracle that delivered the Children of Israel from bondage.

It was the tenth and final plague in Egypt, the death of the first born in every household. The Lord gave the Children of Israel some specific instructions. Their meal that night would be of lamb, cooked with fire, unleavened bread and bitter herbs. They were to mark the side and upper door posts of their home with the blood of the lamb.

They obeyed the Lord’s instructions (Exodus 12:14) and the plague passed over their homes, sparing them from this terrible affliction.

Passover is an eternal ordinance

In Judaism today, Passover is not only a memorial of Israel’s freedom from bondage, but it also looks forward toward the time of the coming of the Messiah. The Lord said unto Moses,  “And this day shall be unto you for a memorial.., and ye shall keep it a feast by an ordinance for ever.” (Exodus 12:14)

During the family Seder dinner on Passover, the fifth ceremonial cup of wine is poured in honor of Elijah. It is left untouched, for according to tradition, Elijah will arrive one day as an unknown guest to herald the advent of the Messiah.¹

This tradition likely originated when the Old Testament Prophet Malachi promised that Elijah would return to the prepare the world for the coming of the Lord:

Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord: And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse. (Malachi 4:5-6)

The anticipated appearance of Elijah at Passover implies that before the coming of the Messiah, there may be another even greater “Passover” event. “But who may abide the day of his coming? And who shall stand when he appeareth?” (Malachi 3:2)

“I will send you Elijah the prophet”

Latter-day Saints believe that Elijah the Prophet returned to the earth and restored the Keys of temple work to “turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers”. This happened on April 3, 1836. In the Jewish calendar, this is the 16th of Nissan, the second day of Passover.²

Elijah restored the temple ordinances and worship at that time through the Prophet Joseph Smith. This is the reason The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints emphasizes family history. Members of the church often call the desire to do this work “the spirit of Elijah“.

Under direction from the Lord, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints built their first temple in Kirtland, Ohio. They built it during a time of poverty at great sacrifice. The Latter-day Saints dedicated the Kirtland Temple to the Lord on March 27, 1836

There, one week later, three messengers, appeared to Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon. They restored all of the ancient covenants including the temple covenants. Jesus Christ appeared that day in his temple to accept the offering of the Saints.

Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the Lord of hosts. (Malachi 3:1)

A latter-day promise of Passover

“The Word of Wisdom” is in Section 89 of the Doctrine and Covenants. This revelation tells us that alcohol, tobacco, tea and coffee were not good for the body and also gives other health related instruction. Section 89 was about “the order and will of God in the temporal salvation of all saints in the last days” (D&C 89:2)

This section of the D&C ends with a promise to those who “keep and do these sayings, walking in obedience to the commandments”. Living the Word of Wisdom while obeying the commandments qualifies one as worthy to enter the temple. It is there they will “find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures”.

This scripture contains a modern promise of Passover. Like the promise given in Egypt 3300 years ago, it is contingent on obedience to the Lord and following his instructions.

And all saints who remember to keep and do these sayings, walking in obedience to the commandments, shall receive health in their navel and marrow to their bones; And shall find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures; Shall run and not be weary, and shall walk and not faint. And I, the Lord, give unto them a promise, that the destroying angel shall pass by them, as the children of Israel, and not slay them. Amen. (D&C 89:18-21)

“Awake and arise and go forth to meet the Bridegroom”

Latter-day revelation gives a different perspective to the event that many Christians refer to as “The Rapture” described in the Bible.

For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first. Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17)

The Doctrine and Covenants, instructs Latter-day Saints to prepare themselves so that they may meet the Lord at the time of his coming. It also instructs them to invite “all people” to prepare for this event:

Yea, let the cry go forth among all people: “Awake and arise and go forth to meet the Bridegroom; behold and lo, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. Prepare yourselves for the great day of the Lord. Watch, therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour”. (D&C 113:10-11)

In Jesus’ parable of the five wise and five foolish virgins, all ten virgins were believers and wanted to meet the Bridegroom. However, the five foolish virgins, “while the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him”. (Matt. 25:5-6) But sadly, their lamps were empty, they were not prepared and they were shut out.

The beginning of the millennium

Chapter 8 of John’s great revelation, foretells the opening of the seventh seal. This is the beginning of the seventh thousand year period, (D&C 77:7)  In other words, the following verse from The Book of Revelation tells of the beginning of the Millennium.

And when he had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour. (Revelationc 8:1)

Apparently, there will be a half-hour of silence after the Millennium begins and before the tribulation. A description of the tribulation period immediately follows this verse. Therefore, the tribulation and the Lord’s return will occur, not at midnight, but some time after 12:30 am of the Millennial Day.

“Those who are alive shall be quickened”

When Christ returns “the dead in Christ shall rise first. Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air”. (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17)

Those who are prepared to meet the Bridegroom will be quickened, which means that they will no longer subject to mortal afflictions, including death. Mortals must be quickened before they can withstand the presence of the Lord.

When will those who are living be quickened? The following latter-day scripture tells us this will occur sometime “immediately after” the half hour of silence, and sometime before they are caught up to meet him. In other words, this may happen anytime during the tribulation period, perhaps even at the beginning.

There shall be silence in heaven for the space of half an hour; and immediately after shall the curtain of heaven be unfolded, as a scroll is unfolded after it is rolled up, the face of the Lord shall be unveiled; And the saints that are upon the earth, who are alive, shall be quickened and be caught up to meet him. (D&C 88:95-96)

How and when will we be quickened?

Some rather spectacular events will happen immediately at the end of the millennial half hour of silence (20.8 years). For the curtain of heaven will be “unfolded as a scroll”, and the face of the Lord unveiled. Apparently, there will be new “wisdom and great treasures of knowledge” revealed from heaven at the beginning of the tribulation period.

It seems reasonable that we may learn at that time what it means to quickened, and how and when this will happen. If one is quickened during the tribulation period, it gives new meaning to the often quoted scripture, “If ye are prepared, ye shall not fear”. (D&C 38:30)

The ancient Passover blessed those within the homes marked with the blood of the lamb. The Latter-day Passover also may extend to those within their homes. “Wherefore, stand ye in holy places, and be not moved, until the day of the Lord come”. (D&C 87:8)

The Hosanna Shout

The dedication of the Kirtland Temple in 1836 was accompanied by many spiritual manifestations, much like the day of Pentecost in the New Testament. It was the first Solemn Assembly (Joel 1:14-16) of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. These very special sacred gatherings include the Hosanna Shout. Those in attendance shout “Hosanna, Hosanna to God and the Lamb, Amen and Amen” while waving a white handkerchief.

The white handkerchiefs represent palm leaves and the shout of “Hosanna” is the welcoming of Jesus Christ to reign on the Earth. “Hosanna!”, means “God saves” or “Save now”.⁴

On the Sunday, before Passover, Jesus rode on a donkey during his victorious entry into Jerusalem. The people welcomed him by shouting “Hosanna” as they waved palm leaves and laid them along his path. Christians still remember this day as Palm Sunday.

“The Spirit of God Like a Fire is Burning” was written for and sung during the dedication of the Kirtland Temple in 1836. It is a popular LDS church hymn about the Hosanna Shout and the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.  (Don’t miss video at end of this post)

“Great multitude” giving Hosanna Shout prophecy

President Gordon B. Hinckley dedicated three modern temples at locations of great significance in church history. These locations are Palmyra NY, Winter Quarters (near Omaha Nebraska), and Nauvoo, Illinois. These dedications were broadcast via satellite to meeting houses so that many members of the church could participate. A temple recommend showing temple worthiness was required to attend.

The Palmyra Temple is near the location of Joseph Smith’s first vision. President Hinckley dedicated this temple on April 6, 2000. An estimated 1.5 million members through out the United States and Canada attended and participated in the Hosanna Shout.

The Book of Revelation accurately describes the Hosanna Shout given by a large multitude.

After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands; And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb. (Revelation 7:9-10)

These verses in Revelation were at the end of the sixth seal. Therefore, many have the opinion that the dedication of the Palmyra Temple on April 6, 2000 marked the beginning of the millennium. However, I do not believe this is correct.

Only one temple dedication fulfills the prophecy

Only one of these three temple dedications perfectly fulfills and completes the prophecy of “all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues”.  This was the temple at Nauvoo, Illinois.

The Nauvoo temple dedication broadcast was the first on an international scale. Its reach far exceeded any previous Church satellite broadcast. An expanded satellite system allowed it to go to areas of the world that have never before received any type of Church satellite broadcast, including Japan, Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, the Philippines, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Thailand, Armenia, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Russia, and Romania.⁵

President Hinckley dedicated the Nauvoo temple, fulfilling the prophecy of Revelations 7:9-10, on June 27, 2002.

The time of this prophetic fulfillment is important because the next chapter, Revelation 8, tells of the opening of the 7th seal which is the beginning of the Millennium and the half hour of silence before the tribulation. This silence in heaven will by broken by the sound of 7 trumpets sounding one after another. “When he had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour. And I saw the seven angels which stood before God; and to them were given seven trumpets. (Revelation 8:1-2)

“These are they which came out of the great tribulation”

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints hold Sunday services in their chapels.  Therefore, temples are not open on Sundays. Members work in the temples during the week, serving day and night. The following verses seem to indicate that those who serve in the temples will be protected during the tribulation and that, after his return, the Lord will dwell among them.

And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes? Whence came they? And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them. (Revelation 7:13-15)

Other stories:

Chapter E6- Sir Isaac Newton: the Athanasian Creed and Bible Prophecy.  Isaac Newton wrote over 1.3 million words on the prophecies of the Bible and early Christian Church History. These writings were hidden until they were discovered in 1936. Newton believed that the Christian Church doctrine had been corrupted. As a result, this “Apostasy” would continue until just before the 7th trumpet and second coming of Christ. At that time, Newton believed, there would be a universal teaching of the truth through out the world. He implored those who are seeking truth to study the scriptures and ask God.

Chapter 22- Mary Ellis Chamberlain: The Mormons Return to Iowa. 
Mary Ellis’ father grew up near Palmyra New York in 1827 and heard news reports of the discovery of the Book of Mormon. Her brother was a preacher who spoke against the Mormons. Two missionaries were sent to Spencer Iowa to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ in the 1890s without purse or script. They received no compensation. They served with prayers and a promise that: “The honest in heart shall be prepared to receive thy testimony, to feed and clothe and give thee money”.

“The Spirit of God Like a Fire is Burning”

Disclaimer

The comments and opinions in this article are those of the author and may not reflect the official position of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

© Copyright Dennis D. Chamberlain, All rights reserved. The Chamberlain Story, 2022.

References:

1- Elijah’s-cup (https://www.britannica.com/topic/)

2- A Look Inside My Mormon Jewish Passover. (https://forward.com/scribe/)

3- Christians Views on the Return of Christ, pewresearch.org

4- Palm Sunday April 10, 2022, https://nationaltoday.com/palm-sunday/

5- Nauvoo Illinois Temple Dedicated, The Ensign, 2002 09, Churchofjesuschrist.org

Four months to solve a mystery debated for over 100 years, write and publish a book. Could I do it? Then I missed my flight! How could I make it to the bicentennial in time? Amazing coincidences? Or, was someone helping me?

This is how and why I wrote my book Run Chamberlain, Run- Solving the 200-year-Old Mystery of Runaway Pond. It is much more than a story about a flood. It is an incredible interaction between six generations of the Chamberlain/Phillips family to correct a mistake and defend the truth.

 

Our family history, as I remember it at age 12

When I was twelve-years-old, I was fascinated by family stories that my mother told me. Ironically, all of these stories were from my father’s side of the family. My Grandfather Harry Chamberlain told them to my Grandmother Annie. Mother became a captive audience to my grandmother for an hour or two each month after our family dinner. My mother then repeated these stories to me. Third hand tales of events that happened over a hundred years ago, what could go wrong?

This is how I remember Chamberlain family history from when I was twelve.

Our family descended from John Chamberlain who fought a duel with the Indian Chief Paugus.  John got off the first shot by priming his rifle with a thump on the ground. The chief’s bullet grazed John’s hair. The duel would decide the victor of the battle at Lovewell’s Pond. After this heroic event he became known as Paugus John Chamberlain.

Paugus John had a son or grandson, also named John, who married an Indian named Winona. They named their son Spencer Chamberlain.

Spencer lived in Glover, Vermont and married Millie French. Her mother was against the marriage because Spencer was half Indian. No record can be found of the marriage since the court house burned down and marriage records were destroyed. Spencer’s mother-in-law undoubtedly set the fire.

One day Spencer hiked  with a group of men to a lake near town to provide more water to run the mill. The water broke loose and the whole lake began rumbling down the valley taking out trees and anything in its path. Spencer Chamberlain was a champion wrestler and runner as fleet as a deer. The men realized the miller’s wife was working in the mill in the valley below. She was in the direct path of the roaring water. They quickly summoned the young athlete, “Run Chamberlain, Run!”

Spencer ran with all the might and strength he had. He got ahead of the flood rushed into the mill and pulled the miller’s wife out of the mill and up the hill.  The flood washed the mill away. The miller’s wife and Chamberlain were caught up to their waste in water.

Were these family stories true?

When I was twelve year’s old these stories of family heroes were magical and mythical, almost sacred. But were they true? Did they actually happen?

The story of Runaway Pond was 144 years ago when I was twelve. Certainly, I thought, no one will ever know if the incredible run of Spencer Chamberlain ever really happened.

When I was much older, (in about the year 2001), our family received some exciting information. My cousin Bruce Chamberlain learned that each year the town of Glover, Vermont had a race that celebrated the run of Spencer Chamberlain. Also, there was a poem that told the whole story of the Runaway Pond.

One verse of the poem seemed most remarkable:

Chamberlain’s the man for that long chase,
A half-blood of the Indian race!
With Chamberlain’s name the hills resound:
“Run Chamberlain, Run!” He gives a bound.

Wow! The story was really true!

Family invitation to the Runaway Pond bicentennial celebration

In 2008, I bought the book “Runaway Pond: The Complete Story” by Wayne H. Alexander from the Glover Historical Society. Joan Alexander, secretary of the GHS, included a small sample of the quicksand collected from Long Pond with my book order.

Joan was always very helpful with my questions, and in a later email she invited me and the Chamberlain family to come to the Runaway Pond Bicentennial celebration, a three day event planned for June 2010.

In July 2009, there was a Chamberlain family reunion in Salt Lake City, Utah, for my Aunt Lois Chamberlain Roos’s 90th birthday. During this event, Bruce Chamberlain told the story of Runaway Pond. Many younger members had not heard about Spencer Chamberlain. Everyone was intrigued to hear that there was a Chamberlain Run race each year in Vermont.

I extended the invitation to attend and began coordinating the effort.

Bruce and I had sold the Chamberlain family on a legendary super hero who was about to be honored in a bicentennial celebration. So much so, that about twenty excited family members planned to make the 2000 mile journey to attend the three day event. These included four generations of Chamberlains ranging in age from six months to ninety-four years.

Sumberg’s blog “Runaway Ponders”

Meanwhile back in Glover, Vermont, Jack Sumberg bagan to raise questions about the historical events of 1810 in his blog named “Runaway Ponders”. His post of January 7, 2010 began:

“Writing to the local paper about the events at Runaway Pond on June 6, 1810 is an old custom in Orleans County and since 2010 brings us the bicentennial of that famous day I would like to open the floodgates once again…. There are smoldering questions still to be answered, and maybe a few yet to be asked.”

Some of those smoldering questions came in 1860 after Rev. Pliny H. White gave the address, at the fifty year anniversary. When he mentioned the story of the heroic runner, he said that the man who ran ahead of the flood was– “Solomon F. Dorr.”

Sumberg’s blog expounded on White’s interpretation of the heroic runner:

“I would note that Rev. White did not call Spencer Chamberlain the hero. In fact, the one mention of him in the speech is for conduct not exactly ‘heroic’.”

After the 50th Anniversary speech by White, the people of Orleans County suddenly realized there were some huge contradictions among them. What happened on that day?

Everyone had heard the story over and over again from the witnesses of that day, their parents and grandparents. Each of these stories were from a different perspective.

In one old timers opinion, the whole story of a heroic runner was a “humbug”. Sumberg’s blog points out that synonyms from the dictionary are “a hoax”, “a fraud”, “a sham”.

More poetry than truth?

Sumberg gives the poem written by Harry Alonzo Phillip’s much of the credit for capturing the hearts and minds of Glover. The Bread and Puppet Theater presents a puppet show each year which follows along the lines of the poem.

Harry Alonzo Phillips is the great-grand son of Spencer Chamberlain, and the third generation to defend the Spencer Chamberlain version of the story. The alternate version of the story is told by the Willson and Dorr families.

Sumberg surmises that the Phillip’s poem may be the predominant reason that Glover favored Chamberlain rather than Dorr:

Can we conclude that that it was the power of poetry that ultimately caused the Chamberlain-Phillips version of the story to predominate in the public mind? If the Willson-Dorrs had fathered, or mothered, poets would the battle for the hearts and minds of Glover still rage today? Could a new film or TV docu-drama succeed in overthrowing the triumphant story?

Overthrow the triumphant story?

What if Sumberg should succeed in overthrowing the Spencer Chamberlain story? Or, what if he persuades the town that there was no runner at all? In either case, Spencer Chamberlain would be considered a fraud and the story of his heroic run considered a hoax!

One can only imagine what our reception in Glover might be.

As strangers to the town of Glover, we were not sure how literal was “the battle for the hearts and minds”, nor how much “rage” it might stir. My young niece, when learning of the controversy inquired, “Are they going to shoot us?”

Runaway Pond: The Complete Story

I had read Runaway Pond: The Complete Story (second edition) by Wayne H. Alexander, which is a compilation of all the information about Runaway Pond collected since the event. In the preface Alexander wrote:

“We have tried in this book to keep the material as close to its original state as possible with all its period misspellings, capitalizations and inconsistencies. We hope that in a particular twist of grammar or awkward turn of phrase, some scholar may find a new window on some of the historical problems created by the pond that ran away.”

In this compilation there are massive contradictions between the many reports and there are many questions to answer. However, Alexander’s collection of material was exactly what was needed. I don’t consider myself a scholar, but his preface seemed to be an invitation to look for that new window.

Sumberg was also searching. He said he had been plowing through the old accounts of Runaway Pond for the last year or so. “I had hoped to unearth some ancient nugget”, Sumberg wrote, “that when brought forth into the clear air of the 21st century, it might spontaneously burst into flame and illuminate some dust-bunnied corner of humanity’s Gloverian history.” He called this his impossible dream.

Questions began to flow into my mind, “Can I find Alexander’s new window?”  “Would I be able to find answers to the many questions and write a book?”  It was the middle of January 2010. I had four months.

Time to write

Our house needed some painting and it was time to plant the garden. Also, I had volunteered for some time commitments at church. I really didn’t have time for another major project. Then something happened that changed everything.

One day as I was riding my bicycle home from town, the wheel struck the curb. I stuck my foot out to prevent a fall and broke a bone in my foot. The doctor gave me an orthopedic boot to wear and a pair of crutches. He told me to keep off my foot and to keep it elevated.

Anyway, I couldn’t paint, garden or participate in certain volunteer projects. Doctors orders! Almost the only thing I could do is sit in front of my computer with my leg elevated and write.

Sometimes I felt like there was an ancestor or someone who really wanted me to write that book, and was trying to “help” me.

Editing, printing and publishing

Everything seemed to go incredibly smooth. My sister Deanna Grant was editor and gave technical  support. My aunt Louise Chamberlain proof read my manuscript. Joan Alexander in Glover also read it. She made sure I didn’t say something too stupid, since I was writing about a place where I had never been.

I had previously published a book with American Book Publishing in Salt Lake City and was familiar with the quality of their printing company. I wanted to them also to print my new book.

When I called the owner he said, “Sorry, we don’t print books for authors, only for publishing companies.”

I told him that I own Mount Olympus Publishing Company registered in Yolo County, California. He was quite surprised, but said, “OK then, we can print it for you.”

After winning a dispute with American Book Publishing, they returned to me all rights to my first book. In 2005, I paid Yolo County $10 to set up Mount Olympus Publishing Company in case there was a need for a second printing. There never was a need, but in 2010 when I was ready to publish Run Chamberlain, Run!, I owned my own publishing company.

The Cover

The cover is a masterpiece by artist Seth Hippen. It depicts Spencer Chamberlain in action as he bounds through the air just ahead of the flood. Seth created this from the description of Spencer and the story of the flood, and also a photo of Spencer’s son Alonzo Chamberlain.

Seth, a cousin on my mother’s side, accepted an affordable offer. This book would not have a professional cover without his help. At that time he was looking for work as an animation artist. He soon landed a job at Blue Sky and then Disney. Seth worked on Epic and other movies including Encanto which is to be released at Thanksgiving 2021.

Defending the Legacy

Jeanette Chamberlain Phillips, (daughter), Alonzo Chamberlain Phillips (grandson) and Harry Alonzo Phillips (great-grand son), defended the heroic run of Spencer Chamberlain beginning in 1860 until Harry wrote his poem in 1929.

It was humbling to me that this third-great-grandson was now continuing what they had started. I would be the fourth generation to defend the legacy of Spencer Chamberlain. It was a position that I had never sought, but one for which I was completely prepared.

Sometimes it seemed as tough someone was helping me along. I began to wonder, “After all these years, was this something that was still important to them?”

Solving the mystery

I sat down with my copy of Wayne Alexander’s compilation of resources and a topographical map of northern Vermont and went to work.

In Pliny White’s address in 1860, the runner and hero of the day was Solomon F. Dorr. Many of the reports supported this version of the story.

Ironically, the runner’s stop for a drink of whiskey along the way gave us a huge clue. The location of that house and the mill were important pieces of the puzzle. As well as which side of the river the runner traveled. Was it, as some say, on the east side? Or as others believed, was it on the west?

These clues could prove the true runner.

I studied this problem for several days. When I finally realized the actual path of the runner, my mind lite up and my eyes filled with tears. For that brief moment, I could see him running and feel his pain.

Five hundred copies

Everything seemed to fall in to place and by May 19. Five hundred copies of Run Chamberlain, Run were printed. This was way more than needed, but the price per book was much better at this quantity. The printer sent the books to my home in California.

I immediately sent out twenty-eight pre-ordered books to family and friends, plus nine complimentary copies to all who had helped with the book. This included one to Jack Sumberg who’s questions inspired me to write it. In return he sent me his publication of Runaway Pond, an illustrated pamphlet of Harry Alonzo Phillips’ poem with drawings by Peter Schumann.

Eight promotional copies were sent to newspapers and and media stations in Vermont.

A full case of sixty books were sent to the Glover Historical Society Gift Shop which would be made available in Glover for the bicentennial on June 4 through 6. This seemed like more than enough for Glover, Vermont population 1100.

Missed flight to Vermont

The day arrived, June 3, 2010. I got up early in the morning and drove to the Sacramento Airport. Unfortunately, the time to take a shuttle from parking and get through security was more than expected. When I finally got through, it was too late. There was no way I could get on that plane.

I couldn’t believe it. I had missed my flight!

The next flight from Sacramento to Houston was full, but there might be some cancellations. I gave it a try and got on the standby passenger list. It was my only chance.

Houston was the first of three segments from Sacramento to Burlington Vermont. I planned to arrive that evening in Burlington and catch a ride to Glover with my sister and her husband.

I waited in the Sacramento airport for the next flight.

Boarding began and ended. They then began calling standbys, one by one. Finally, they called “Chamberlain”. And I really mean “finally.”  I was the last one called, but I was now on my way.

I was soon in Houston, Texas. However, by that time I had missed my flight to Newark, New Jersey. The next flight wouldn’t leave until the next morning. That flight was also full. So, once again, the standby passenger list was my only chance.

I slept that night in a chair in the very quiet Houston Airport terminal. This gave me some time to think. “What could I do for the week-end in Houston.” At least I had tickets for a return flight to Sacramento on the June 8.

The next morning boarding began and ended for the Newark. They then began calling standbys, one by one. Yes! I was the last one called, and I was now on my to New Jersey.

I arrived in Newark and quickly signed up on the standby passenger list for the next flight to Burlington, Vermont. Now, much better off than when in Houston, I could rent a car and make the seven hour drive to Glover. Oh, how I hoped I wouldn’t have to do that.

I waited. Boarding began and ended. They began calling names from the standby list. It was a long list. Twenty names, or more it seemed. Then they began calling the same name over and over again. Every few minutes they would call that same name. For about twenty minutes, the same name over and over again.

I prayed he wouldn’t show up.

It was now time for take off. “Chamberlain!” they called. As soon as I entered the airplane, they closed the door and started the jet engines. When my plane arrived in Burlington, my sister Deanna and her husband Chuck were there and ready to take me to Glover.

After contemplating this experience, I came to the following conclusions. Someone was helping me, and they wanted me to know they were helping me. And, whoever that might be, they have a warped sense of humor.

Graveyard Ghosts

No pun intended. This was the actual title of the program that was in progress when we arrived in Glover, “Graveyard Ghosts Remember Runaway Pond”. It was a delightful show put on by the Glover school children who were dressed in costume and portrayed 1810 residents sharing their memories.

It was held in the school gym. However, a night performance was planned for 9 pm in Westlook Cemetery, with path lit with luminaries. This was a fitting location for the spirit of the occasion, where markers designated the current address of the original cast of characters.

Small town hospitality

The town of Glover went all out to make the twenty-one Chamberlain family members welcome. They put on a Saturday morning Chamberlain descendant breakfast at the Runaway Pond Cafe for our whole group. They provided us with great food and live entertainment. A local singer/song writer played a number of songs about the Runaway Pond of a folk/bluegrass venue.

We were also invited to be part of the Glover Village parade. My father Ernest, uncle Robert and I rode in the cab of a horse drawn carriage. My son and his wife walked behind with two children in a stroller. Robert’s family followed each wearing a white tee shirt embossed with the Chamberlain coat of arms. These were made special for the occasion. My two sisters and their families were more modest than the rest of us and blended in with the spectators.

Some of Roberts family participated in the Chamberlain Run race from the lake bed to the village.

On Sunday, June 6 the activities were held in the Long Pond dry lake bed. These included picnic lunch, the Bread and Puppet Theater puppet show, unveiling of the road side marker, remarks by Governor Douglas and others, and many more activities and fireworks.

The main event of the Sunday activities was the firing of the cannon at the moment the event occurred in 1810.

Three days of fame

Four news articles about my book and the runner controversy hit the stands a couple of days before our arrival. This buzz made me a short term celebrity author.

On Saturday, after the Chamberlain breakfast, a reporter for Seven Days found me for a television interview. This was for their state wide series called  “Stuck in Vermont.”  I then went to the Glover Town Hall which was adorned with beautiful home made quilts on special display for the celebration. There, I enjoyed talking to local residents while signing books.

While I was at the book signing, other family members took a guided bus tour of Runaway Pond. The guide mentioned that the oldest living descendant of Spencer Chamberlain was on the bus. This was my dad, Ernest M. Chamberlain age 94. Many jumped up from their seats and ran back to have him sign their copy of the book.

By Sunday the books sent to Glover were sold out. During the activities at the dry lake bed one young boy shouted, “Look dad, there’s one!” He pointed to someone carrying a copy of my book. It was the first time he saw one.

On Sunday, I met the son of Wayne Alexander. He asked me what I did for a living and seemed interested in how I wrote my book. “Oh, how I wish my father could be here,” he said. “He would be so tickled to see you Chamberlains here in Glover.” He told me he bought my book yesterday and couldn’t put it down until he finished it at 1 am. Then he called his son over and introduced me. “I want you to met Mr. Chamberlain who wrote the book”

I have never felt more honored in my life.

The heart of the fathers to their children

Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord: And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers. (Malachi 4:6)

The Old Testament Prophet Malachi implied that in the last days there would be important interaction between the fathers and their children. Latter-day Saints believe that it is important for us to connect and record our kindred families through genealogical research.

A message from Alonzo Chamberlain Phillips

My grandfather Harry Ellis Chamberlain was researching our family genealogy in the 1920s. Alonzo Chamberlain Phillips, in Glover, Vermont, was the one who answered his many questions and helped him in this effort.

Ironically, in 2008, I did the research and compiled the genealogy records for Alonzo C. Phillips and his immediate family. As I did this, I felt a close connection to Alonzo Phillips.

Alonzo C. Phillips was the grandson of Spencer Chamberlain, and a strong defender of his run. In 1927, he sent a message to my grandfather Harry Chamberlain which he addressed: “To my family in the West”. He told of the controversy still raging in Glover:

I now wish to correct a mistake that was made by White at the 50th anniversary of the letting out of the pond… This mistake was what caused my mother (to write) her piece giving her father the dues that rightfully belong to him.- Alonzo Chamberlain Phillips- 1927

Thank you, I got your message.- Dennis Chamberlain- 2010

Important Links

How to order my book, or see more photos of the Runaway Pond Bicentennial.

Seven Days 5 minute video “Stuck in Vermont.”

“What Could go wrong?” What was true, and what were the misconceptions in my age 12 memories of Chamberlain family history

© Copyright Dennis D. Chamberlain, All rights reserved. The Chamberlain Story, 2021.