Joseph H. Dean and Companions Survive the Deadly 1889 Apia Hurricane — Spared While Seven Warships Sink in the Harbor

In March 1889, Latter-day Saint missionary Joseph H. Dean and his companions Edward Wood and Adelbert Beesley set out on a 70-mile journey across the waters of Samoa in a small sailboat called Faa'aliga, meaning "Revelation."

After their boat filled with water and nearly sank, they eventually reached Apia, only to find themselves caught in the devastating Samoan hurricane of 1889. From their fragile shelter near the harbor, they watched as enormous waves battered seven warships, sailors fought for their lives, and vessels were wrecked along the shore.

About 200 people died in the disaster, but Dean and his companions survived and continued their missionary work.

Their experience is a reminder that following Jesus Christ doesn't mean the storms of life won't come. But when we build our lives on Him, He can help us weather them.