Orson Pratt Suffers from Severe Illness in New York City and Recovers

In spring of 1826, during a time when Orson Pratt was seeking employment in New York City at a cabinetmaking establishment, he experienced a life-threatening illness. As Orson recorded in his journal: 'In the spring of 1826, I was recommended by Mr. Greenock to a large cabinetmaking establishment in New York City, where I intended to remain until of age; but after tarrying a few months, I was taken violently sick and brought very low, so that my recovery, for some time, was considered doubtful.' This grave illness threatened to end his apprenticeship and potentially his life. However, through divine mercy, Orson recovered from this critical condition. He continued: 'When my strength permitted, I went into the country, to Hurlgate, and tarried with my brother Anson, until the spring of 1827, when I returned to Canaan.' This recovery allowed Orson to eventually embark on his apostolic ministry. The preservation of his life during this critical illness was essential to his later role in the restored Church, as he became one of the Twelve Apostles and a prolific defender of the faith.

Fuller account of this event (in the witness’s own words):

In the spring of 1826, I was recommended by Mr. Greenock to a large cabinetmaking establishment in New York City, where I intended to remain until of age; but after tarrying a few months, I was taken violently sick and brought very low, so that my recovery, for some time, was considered doubtful. When my strength permitted, I went into the country, to Hurlgate, and tarried with my brother Anson, until the spring of 1827, when I returned to Canaan.