Catherine Billeter Pratt “Dear old Katie, my mom, took everything in stride, and every one of us, right down to the great grandchildren, all knew they were so very much loved. She was the Mother of the Century".

email from Glen Arthur Pratt, age 86, July 23, 2009 Upper: Parley Parker Pratt and wife, Belinda Marden, followed by their son, Nephi below. Julius Billeter and Barbara Zweifel, with children Catherine and Ferdinand. Lower: Nephi Pratt and wife Hannah Phillips in family photos, William is in the upper right of both.

William Parker Pratt Catherine Billeter William Parker Pratt Catherine Billeter

Husband William Parker Pratt Wife Catherine Billeter Birth Date: 7 Jan 1876 Birth Date: 4 Jan 1882 Birthplace: Fillmore, Millard County, Birthplace: Seebach, Walliselle, Zurich, Baptism Date: 30 Sep 1884 Baptism Date: 4 Feb 1890 Marriage Date: 13 Sep 1899 Marriage Date: 13 Sep 1899 Where Married: , Utah Where Married: Salt Lake City, Utah Death Date: 11 Nov 1946 Death Date: 21 May 1974 Where Buried: Salt Lake City, Utah Where Buried: Salt Lake City, Utah Father's Name: Nephi Pratt Father's Name: Julius Billeter Mother's Name: Hannah Phillips Mother's Maiden Name: Barbara Zweifel

Child 1 Elmer William Pratt Child 4 Florence Billeter Pratt Child 7 Harold Billeter Pratt was born on 28 Oct 1900 in Salt Lake City, Utah. was born on 5 Jul 1907 in Salt Lake City, Utah. was born on 31 Jan 1912 in Salt Lake City, Utah. He He died 7 Nov 1957 in Denver, Colorado. She died 3 Jul 1993. died on 3 Feb 2002. • Elmer William Pratt and Margaret Genevieve • Florence Billeter Pratt and Harold Alfred • Harold Billeter Pratt and Murtice Elizabeth Robinson were married in Salt Lake City, Utah on Showell were married in Salt Lake City, Utah on 14 Davis were married on 22 Mar 1939. 29 Aug 1924. They had 3 children. Mar 1928. They had 4 children. They had 1 child. Margaret Genevieve Robinson was born 27 Jan 1904 Harold Alfred Showell was born 1 May 1906 and Murtice Elizabeth Davis was born on 18 Jun 1899. Estimated Age and died 1 Apr 1946 and was buried in Coalville, Ut. Estimated Age died 3 Nov 2000. Estimated Age She died on 6 Jun 1982. in Photo: 50 • Elmer William Pratt and Olga Mack were in Photo: 43 in Photo: 38 married on 4 Dec 1948. • Elmer William Pratt and Patricia Marie Dowling Landron were married 17 Feb 1952. They had one child. Patricia Marie Dowling was born 5 May 1918 in Denver, CO., and died there 03 Mar 1968. Child 2 Julius Billeter Pratt Child 5 Alice Barbara Pratt Child 8 Chase Billeter Pratt was born on 14 Dec 1903 in Salt Lake City, Utah. was born on 28 Apr 1909 in Salt Lake City, Utah. was born on 24 Aug 1913 in Salt Lake City, Utah. He He died on 25 Jan 1977 and was buried in Salt Lake She died on 7 Apr 1999. died on 1 Jul 1996. City. • Alice Barbara Pratt and Ernie Batory were • Chase Billeter Pratt and Mary Esther Jarman • Julius Billeter Pratt and Cora Shindlebower married 7 Jan 1956. Ernie Batory was born 24 Nov were married on 26 Jun 1940. Mary Esther Jarman were married on 16 Aug 1926. 1912 and died 25 Sep 1982. Alice had 1 child. was born on 24 Jan 1917. • Julius Billeter Pratt and Elizabeth Broderick They had 4 children. Estimated Age Hopkins were married on 18 Sep 1937 in Rockville, Estimated Age Estimated Age in Photo: 47 Montgomery, Maryland. They had 2 children in Photo: 41 in Photo: 37

Child 3 Ruth Billeter Pratt Child 6 LeGrand Billeter Pratt Child 9 Joseph Francis Pratt was born on 4 Sep 1905 in Salt Lake City, Utah. She was born on 11 Aug 1910 in Salt Lake City, Utah. He was born on 22 Aug 1915 in Murray, Utah. He died died on 16 Mar 1980 in Salt Lake City, Utah. died on 30 May 1984 in Salt Lake City, Utah. on 31 Mar 1980 in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. • Ruth Billeter Pratt and Rulon Shelby McGhie • LeGrand Billeter Pratt and Virginia Von • Joseph Francis Pratt and Mary Lois Ellwanger were married on 7 Mar 1927 in Brigham City, Utah. Brengelman were married on 9 Mar 1935. Virginia were married 18 Jan 1936. They had 5 children. Rulon Shelby McGhie was born on 2 Jan 1901 in Von Brengelman was born on 3 Oct 1913 in Mary Lois Ellwanger was born 4 Apr 1917. She died Salt Lake City, Utah. He died on 15 May 1958 in Cincinnati, Ohio. She died on 31 Aug 1947. 29 May 2006 in Lynchburg, Virginia. Estimated Age Salt Lake City, Utah. Estimated Age • LeGrand Billeter Pratt and Kathryn Worsley Estimated Age in Photo: 45 in Photo: 40 were married on 8 Apr 1953 in Las Vegas, Nevada. in Photo: 35 They had 2 children. Kathryn Worsley was born 21 Oct 1905 in Denver, CO and died in SLC, UT 23 Feb 2005. Husband William Parker Pratt Wife Catherine Billeter Birth Date: 7 Jan 1876 Birth Date: 4 Jan 1882 Birthplace: Fillmore, Millard County, Utah Birthplace: Seebach, Walliselle, Zurich, Switzerland Baptism Date: 30 Sep 1884 Baptism Date: 4 Feb 1890 Marriage Date: 13 Sep 1899 Marriage Date: 13 Sep 1899 Where Married: Salt Lake City, Utah Where Married: Salt Lake City, Utah Death Date: 11 Nov 1946 Death Date: 21 May 1974 Where Buried: Salt Lake City, Utah Where Buried: Salt Lake City, Utah Father's Name: Nephi Pratt Father's Name: Julius Billeter Mother's Name: Hannah Phillips Mother's Maiden Name: Barbara Zweifel

Child 10 William Parker Pratt Jr. Child 13 Catherine Pratt was born on 15 Sep 1916 in Salt Lake City, Utah. He Catherine Pratt was born on 25 Jun 1921 in Salt Lake died on 7 Dec 1977 in Twin Falls, . He was City, Utah. She died on 4 Mar 1993 in Van Nuys, buried on 11 Dec 1977 in Sunset Cemetery, Twin California. Falls, Idaho. • Catherine Pratt and Rulon L. Johnson were • William Parker Pratt Jr. and Virginia Mae married on 14 Dec 1941 in Boise, Idaho. They had 2 Adams were married on 5 Jun 1942 in Twin Falls, children. Estimated Age Idaho. They had 6 children. Estimated Age Rulon L. Johnson was born 29 Oct 1915. in Photo: 34 Virginia Mae Adams was born 6 Dec 1922. in Photo: 29

Child 11 Robert Billeter Pratt Child 14 Glen Arthur Pratt was born on 14 Jan 1918 in Salt Lake City, Utah. He Glen Arthur Pratt was born on 2 Dec 1922 in Salt died on 5 Sep 2004. Lake City, Utah. • Robert Billeter Pratt and Louise Ann Poynar • Glen Arthur Pratt and Lois Ruth Evans were were married on 15 Aug 1952 in Salt Lake City, married on 21 Jan 1946 in Salt Lake City, Utah. They Utah. They had 3 children. had 5 children. Louise Ann Poynar was born 29 Apr 1930. Lois Ruth Evans was born 14 Jan 1920. She died 12 Estimated Age Estimated Age July 1999. in Photo: 32 in Photo: 28

Child 12 Richard Billeter Pratt Child 15 Calvin Don Pratt was born on 6 Jan 1920 in Salt Lake City, Utah. . was born on 2 Nov 1924 in Salt Lake City, Utah. He • Richard Billeter Pratt and Bessie Marie Knight died on 30 Apr 1965 in Provo, Utah. were married on 7 Jun 1943 in Salt Lake City, Utah. • Calvin Don Pratt and Beverly June Spry were They had 4 children. married on 10 Nov 1948 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Bessie Marie Knight was born 27 Apr 1924. They had 4 children. Beverly June Spry was born 2 Jul 1925. Estimated Age Estimated Age in Photo: 30 in Photo: 26 Name in full: William Parker Pratt Father’s name: Nephi Pratt Mother’s Maiden name: Hannah Phillips When born: 7 January 1876 Where born: Fillmore, Millard Co. Utah When baptized: 10 January 1884 Office: High Priest, By whom: LeGrand Young, Date 9 August 1908 Married to: Catherine Billeter, Date: 13 September 1899 Where married: , by: John R. Winder Where endowed: Salt Lake Temple, Date: 11 October 1895 Where sealed: Salt Lake Temple, Date 13 September 1899 To whom: Catherine Billeter Departed for mission to: Southern States, William Parker Pratt was reared in a family of nine children. His Mother Date: 12 October 1895, When returned: 3 August 1898 was the 1st. wife of Nephi Pratt. He had two other wives. Some of the children Special appointments: 2nd Counsellor to Bishop Lewis A. were opposed to polygamy but they honored and respected their Father, and took Merrill in the 31st Ward, set apart by LeGrand Young. good care of their Mother. They were a jolly happy family. I was in their home Where died: Salt Lake City, Date: 11 November 1946 many times after our marriage and before. They never quarreled or criticized each Where buried: Salt Lake City Cemetery, other. Date: 15 November 1946 They all seemed to have a wonderful sense of humor and could see the funny side of most everything. Parker was very serious minded and when he was 19 he was called on a mission to the Southern States. Elias Kimball was Mission President at the time and was later replaced by Ben E. Rich. He returned home from his mission in 1898. I met him shortly after his return and we were married Sept. 13 1899. Our courtship days were the happiest of my life. About a year later Parker was appointed one of the first guides on the Temple Block. He had many wonderful experiences talking to tourists and explaining the Gospel to all that were interested. Many were just curious about the Mormons and especially about polygamy. He looked so young, and surprised many by his ready and intelligent answers to their many questions. Our first child, a boy, was born in Oct. 1900. He was named after Parker's faithful missionary companion Elmer Caldwell, William being his middle name. After three years our second son was born and we named him Julius Billeter, after my father. In 1904 we moved to our new home in the newly organized 31st Ward. The house was only partly finished, but it was to be our own home which gave us much satisfaction and happiness. We lived there for twelve years, improving the place and adding an extra room, porches, etc. During this time we had seven more children, and decided we needed more room and especially more land so we could raise our own fruit and vegetables, so we traded our home for one in Holladay with nearly three acres of land. We lived in Holladay only three years. It was too expensive to send our children to town to High school. During this time two more babies were born, both boys, making 11 children. Ruth was the oldest girl which left her with much responsibility helping to care for all these children. In 1918 we moved to our present location, 3313 So. 11th East, close to grade school also High school and Jr. High. We have now lived here 43 years and have added four more children to our already crowded home, making 15 children in all. We added more rooms to our home and managed pretty well all these years. We have had all the disappoints, heartaches, illnesses, etc. etc. that seem to go along with rearing a large family. But our blessings and happiness far out weigh our numerous problems and thru active church work and constant prayers can much of these difficulties be overcome. Many times our pay check didn't quite reach far enough to get us all the necessities, but probably were blessings in disguise which we couldn't see at the time. Parker worked most of the time selling real estate and often dealt with people with limited incomes and were unable to pay the commissions he was entitled to. But he never took advantage of a situation which could have brought him large sums of money, knowing that any dishonesty has its come backs. He was a loyal supporter of the Republican party, and held a number of jobs whenever the Republican party was in power. Elmer filled a mission in the Western States from 1919 to 1921. Calvin (our caboose) also filled a mission in the Central States from July 3 1946 to Summer of 1949. Soon after he left for his mission our dear Dad passed away very suddenly on Nov. 11, 1946. Name in full: Catherine Billeter Pratt Father’s name: Julius Billeter Mother’s Maiden name: Barbara Zwiefel When born: 4 January 1882 Where born: Seebach, Walliselle, Zurich, Switzerland When baptized: 4 February 1890 Where baptized: Salt Lake City, Utah Baptized by: Joseph Derbidge When confirmed: 6 February 1890 By whom: Alfred Solomon Married to: William Parker Pratt, Date: 13 September 1899 Where married: Salt Lake Temple, by: John R. Winder Where endowed: Salt Lake Temple, Date: 18 May 1899 Where sealed: Salt Lake Temple, Date: 13 September 1899 To whom: William Parker Pratt Patriarchal blessing by: Angus M. Cannon, Date: 11 April 1914 I was Secretary in 22nd Ward Primary. Attended Irving school on Second West Fourth North, until Washington school was built. New 22nd Ward now at Irving school site. Joined the Tabernacle Choir when nearly 16. Heard the great Caruso sing, also heard Sousa and his famous band, and many other famous artists. Shook hands with Pres. Joseph F. Smith, Heber J. Grant, George A. Smith. Attended dedication of Salt Lake Temple April 6, 1893. Sang with Tabernacle Choir at Pres. Wilford Woodruff's funeral Sept. 2, 1898. After Evan Stephens resigned as leader of the tabernacle choir he organized a youth chorus. When he resigned he was replaced by Prof. E.K. Bassett. During this time the operetta "Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs" was given in the old Salt Lake Theater at First So. and State St. I was chosen to play the part of the wicked queen. I sang many solos while in the 22nd Ward and took part in duets and quartets. I represented Switzerland in the "Float of all Nations" in 1897 which was an important event 50 years since the first pioneers arrived in Salt Lake. In 1898 I met William P. Pratt, a returned missionary. We became very friendly and before long we became engaged. We had no sidewalks in those days so we often walked on the railroad track from our Ward meetings. On one of these nights he gave me an engagement ring. It had a small diamond, but that little diamond looked awfully big to me. We were married the following Sept. and lived in the 22nd Ward for three years. Then with our two boys, Elmer, age 3 and Julius age 4 months, we moved to the newly organized 31st Ward, on Harvard Ave. and 10th East. Edrvin S. Sheets was Bishop at the time. We lived there for 12 years. By then we had 9 children and moved to Holladay, where we had plenty of room for cows, chickens and plenty of garden space. We only lived in Holladay three years, and then moved to 3313 So. 11th East in Wilford Ward. This is our 44th year at this same residence. During this time our family grew to the number of 15, 11 boys and 4 girls. Our dear old Dad passed away on Nov. 11, 1946 at the age of 70. I am very thankful that he was privileged to remain long enough to rear our children together. Eleven Sons Serve U.S.

If the 11 sons of Mr. and Mrs. William P. Pratt, 3313-11th East, suddenly withdrew from their respective war activities, the war's progression probably would feel a jolt. For, of the 11, six are with the army and navy, four in vital war industries, and one in the employ of the federal government, Washington, D.C. A six-star service flag hangs in the front window of the Pratt home. Pearl Harbor began it all, and the following month, January, 1942, the first of the Pratt sons donned navy blue. He was Yeoman 1/c Robert B. Pratt. The last to enter service was LeGrand Pratt, who has been with the navy just a year. LeGrand Pratt, 34, electrician's mate 2/c with the navy, now is stationed in San Francisco, Cal., in ship's repair. His wife is with him. W. P. Pratt Jr., 28, also an electrician's mate 2/c, navy, is serving with ship's repair in New Orleans, La. In the navy since January, 1944, his wife and daughter are with him. Robert B. Pratt, 27, navy yeoman 1/c, is aboard a destroyer escort "somewhere in the Atlantic." Enlisting in the navy in January, 1942, he has been on sea duty about two and a half years. Corp. Richard B. Pratt, 25, is stationed at Lincoln, Neb., with the air corps. He is serving in the office of records and assignments, and has been in the army since September, 1942. His wife, Bessie Knight Pratt, formerly of Salt Lake City, is with him. Sgt. Glen A. Pratt, 22, who went in the service in January, 1943, has been overseas, now in England, about two and a half years with a special service unit. A musician, himself, he arranges entertainment for the forces. Pfc. Calvin D. Pratt, 20, is with Patton's Third army in . In the army since June 1943, he has been overseas since November, 1944. Formerly serving with the air forces, he recently was named an assistant chaplain with the infantry. A grandson, Reed Pratt, 18, is with the navy in Arizona, and two step grandsons, Ted and Brent Johnson, 19 and 24, respectively, are also with the navy, too. Besides 11 sons, Mr. and Mrs. Pratt have four daughters, all of whom are married. The six Pratt brothers in the armed forces are Granite high school graduates.

Glen Richard Calvin Robert LeGrand William Early Apostle Grandson Dies William Parker Pratt DO YOU REMEMBER

William Parker Pratt, 70, 3313-11th East, Funeral services for William Parker Pratt, 70, active church worker and grandson of Parley Do you remember, dear, the lowly ways grandson of Parley P. Pratt, early apostle of the P. Pratt, early apostle of the Church of Jesus We walked together here, those far off days Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who died Christ of Latter-day Saints, died Monday at When it was bliss to be, for love was new, Monday evening at his residence of a heart ailment, 4:20 p.m. at his residence of a heart ailment. And you were all to me, and I, all to you. A resident of Salt Lake City for the past 65 will be conducted Friday at 3 p.m. in the Hillcrest Ward Chapel, by Bishop Linden Mather. Friends years, Mr. Pratt was born Jan. 7, 1876, in Do you remember still the long, sweet years, Fillmore, Millard county, a son of Nephi and may call at the family home, 3313 Eleventh East St. Hannah Phillips Pratt. Friday from 11 a.m. till 1:30 p.m.. In which, as with one will, in joy or tears, He filled a mission to the southern states Internment will be in Salt Lake City Cemetery. We toiled along life's way, still side by side for the LDS church and had served as a Fond as we were that day, when groom and bride? counselor in the bishopric of the Thirty-first LDS ward. PRATT- Funeral services for William Parker Pratt Do you remember me, in Heaven's light, At the time of death, he was an instructor in will be held Friday at 2 p.m. in the Hillcrest LDS As I remember thee in sorrow's night; the high priests’ quorum of the Lorraine LDS Ward chapel. Friends may call at the mortuary, 260 And where now unto thee all things are new, ward. Mr. Pratt was connected with the Zions East So. Temple St., from Thursday 4 to 8 p.m. and Security Corp., and for many years had been Do you still long for me as I for you? in the real estate business in Salt Lake City. Friday at the residence, 3313 So. 11th East, from 11 Survivors include 11 sons and four a.m. until 1:30 p.m. O, if our God above is just as true daughters, Harold B., Chase B., William P. Jr., Internment in the City Cemetery under direction of To us as is the love between us two, the Larkin Mortuary. Robert B., Richard B., and Glen A. Pratt, all His everlasting grace and power sublime of Salt Lake City; Elmer W., Julius B. and Will bring us face to face some glad, sweet time. Joseph F. Pratt, Washington, D.C.; LeGrand B. Pratt, California; Calvin Pratt, serving a mission in the east central states; Mrs. Ruth McGhie, Salt Lake City; Mrs. Florence Showell, Mrs. Alice Goddard and Mrs. Catherine Johnson, all of California; one brother and three sisters, Frank M. Pratt, Spokane, and Mrs. Mary Morris, Mrs. Florence Leaver and ____ J. Schulze, all of California. ____grandchildren.

William Parker Pratt, Catherine Billeter Pratt and their first 7 children.

In order of age: Elmer, Julius, Ruth, Florence, Alice, Legrand, Harold. PERSONAL HISTORY FROM CATHERINE BILLETER PRATT

I was born in Zurich, Switzerland in 1882. I was the 10th child in the family. My Mother accepted the Gospel thru the missionaries when she was 16 years old. She was married to Father for 15 years before he joined the church. Father's folks lived in Italy for a few years, and during that time he was born. All his ancestors came from Switzerland as far back as we can trace his line. When I was 2 1/2 years old we emigrated to America. Five of the children died while still quite young. There were only Father, Mother, Julius, Louise, Ferdinand, Barbara and myself that landed here in 1884. Father had joined the church before leaving Switzerland. Father being a good mechanic soon got a job with the Oregon Short Line Railroad. He worked there until he retired at 70. Also in 1884 we went to the Logan Temple and were sealed to our parents for Time and Eternity. The Salt Lake Temple wasn't completed for several years later. I was brought up in a humble home where the days always began and ended with family prayers. Paying tithing and fast offerings were very important all our lives. My sister Barbara died when she was 8 years old (broken appendix) which left a very lonely place in our home. At fourteen years of age I was secretary in the Primary Association in the 22nd Ward. I was also invited to join the ward choir. I had a strong alto voice and was therefore privileged to take part in many entertainments, mostly in our own ward. I also belonged to Evan Stephen’s children’s chorus later conducted by Prof. E. K. Bassett. During this time I took the part of the wicked Queen in the opera "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" given in the Salt Lake Theatre at 1st So. and State St. (About 1896) In 1897 I joined the Tabernacle Choir and was a member until my marriage. About this time a very wonderful thing happened to me. I met a returned missionary who visited our ward. I'll never know why he should have paid any attention to little old me when I can name at least a dozen girls who would have liked to have called him their beau. We only went steady about eight months and were married in the Salt Lake Temple Sept. 13 1899. What a glorious happy day it was. I had the handsomest husband in the world. He was six years older than me and I looked up to him almost like he might be a king. We just automatically knew we belonged to each other. The next 40 or 50 years were very strenuous, but also very rewarding. In looking back it seems so easy to forget the many aggravating, irritating, unpleasant things that happened. But nothing ever happened to make us lose our love for each other. Our first child, a boy, was born in 1900 so it wasn't very difficult to remember his birthday. When Elmer was 3 years old and our second boy was about 4 months old we moved to the newly organized 31st. Ward. We named our second boy Julius Billeter Pratt, because he looked so much like my Father whose name was also Julius. Julius had very little hair while Elmer had an abundance of black hair, and I do mean black. Some amusing sayings of the children when they were young: Elmer - Why do they build houses out doors? Elmer was called the holy child. Julius was called King Never Sweat. Florence said the Lord must have had a grudge against us because he sent us so many boys. Harold said we could have done without the last five. Florence said she was thankful for all her blessings but was especially thankful that she didn't have a roman nose. Said to Joe: How could you get thru with your bath so quick? Are you sure you're clean? Joe: Well come and see if the water is dirty enough. Bill was the champion rock thrower in the neighborhood. "You have been a naughty boy Cal and I'm mad at you". Cal: Let me see your mouth. September 13, 1966.

This is our 67th wedding anniversary. I hope Dad will remember it and I wish he could be here so we could celebrate together and have all our children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren here too. What a wonderful time we could have.

Even though I hobble around with a cane, I enjoy life and am always grateful for my many blessings.

Recently we sold our old home on Eleventh East and are now living in a duplex apartment on Lavon Drive. I like this place very much. A nice clean neighborhood, rather quiet after all the noisy traffic on 33rd South. Poor Ruth has lived with me nearly ten years. Shelby passed on eight years ago. It wasn’t easy for Ruth to give up her life and all she had in California, I couldn’t blame her for being homesick for her old life, but I think she is beginning to adjust to things around here a little better, except for the snow. I don’t like it either, however I don’t have to go out in it as she does. She has made a big sacrifice putting up with me and my funny old ways. She probably won’t be much different when she’s eight-four, only I won’t be here to say "I told you so". Anyway we are sharing this home together and everything else I own, which isn’t very much.

I have depended on her so much the last few years and she has done a marvelous job, taking care of all my needs and advising me always for the best. At the same time she has had a full time job.

All the children have helped with gifts and flowers and in many other ways to make me happy. I bless them all.

At present Ruth is on vacation in California, having a much needed rest. I would not like her to know how much I miss her, or — should she know? — This just isn’t home without her and I will be very happy when she gets home again. I am glad to be so close to Chase and Mary. I told them I was not afraid to stay at home alone at night, which isn’t exactly true. The children bring in my paper, mail, and carry out the garbage can. Mary sent over a lovely cooked Sunday dinner- enough for two meals- and was it good.

Oh yes - we lived in the old house forty-eight years. Our last four children were born during this time, bringing the number of children to fifteen, eleven boys and four girls. Someone once said the Lord must have had a grudge against us for sending so many boys. Even small families have problems, we had a double dose, but heartaches and disappointments are easily forgotten when children grow up to be fine men and women like ours are today.

A great sorrow came in the passing away of two of our boys. Elmer at age 57 in 1957 and Calvin at age 40 in 1965. Our six boys who served actively in the armed services during WWII all came home safely. My Favorite Mother by Carma Lee Smithson Sunday, May 17, 1953

"But we're just an ordinary family. There's nothing about us to tell," protested Mrs. Catherine B. Pratt. Now, 15 children makes no ordinary family, and there is a great deal to tell about the endless work, patience, and wise direction of parents who gave the community 15 useful citizens. However, the children modestly and sincerely concur that a family merits no acclaim merely by reason of its size, and they agreed that any public recognition of them should be in a tribute to their mother. A son, Elmer, summed his sentiment in these words, "I feel that any honor, great or small, received by my mother can be no more than she deserves." Their mother, 71, lives at 3313(South)-11th(1100) East, the family home for nearly 15 years. Besides her own children, she has had with her three of her grandchildren.

Still Being Needed "After dad passed away seven years ago, I wanted to turn away from people. I fought against it, but it was the feeling of still being needed by those grandchildren that offered consolation and really made me happy". Born in Switzerland, Catherine was the youngest of a family of 10 which Julius Billeter brought to Salt Lake City in 1884. In 1898, when William Parker Pratt, a grandson of Parley P. Pratt, returned from the Southern States Mission, she met him at church in the Twenty-second Ward. They were married the following year in the Salt Lake Temple. "Later, as the children kept coming along, there were times when some of them couldn't see why we had to have so many babies," Mrs. Pratt recalled. "No one else did, they would say to dad and me. Because I couldn't do all the work, the older ones had to share responsibilities. Everyone helped, but Elmer, the eldest, was especially good with the little ones".

Everyone Should Learn "There are some rules everyone should learn," Mrs. Pratt continued, "but in a large family it is a necessity to live by those rules". "We insisted that they respect each other's rights. One child never wore another's clothing without the owner's consent. We taught them cooperation. Everyone had to take part in work for the family, helping wherever and whenever needed. We prayed together and gave them religious training. One very important value we stressed was the development of right attitudes toward work, people, and the world in general. Along with that comes patience". "Perhaps the most important thing for us as parents was our effort to set a good example. You can't expect children to do what you are unable or unwilling to do yourself." According to Mrs. Pratt, there is no pat formula for rearing children. It is a combination of hard work, love, and much careful thinking as new problems arise. "We sometimes had to try several ways before a problem was solved, but usually we could work it out to please everyone. Some quarrels couldn't be avoided, but we found it best to separate them by giving one a task to do and sending the other on an errand."

Credit Due Husband Mrs. Pratt feels that much credit is due her husband who always insisted that she have an hour of rest every afternoon no matter how much work had to be left undone. "I seldom miss that hour even now," she said. "Simple relaxation gives one added strength to finish the day." Mr. Pratt was in the real estate business for 30 years. He also was a clerk in the County Recorder's office and was one of the first guides on Temple Square. "All our life together," Mrs. Pratt recalled, "it was our custom to meet in town on Saturday afternoon. We shopped, had dinner, and went to a show. My husband believed it was important for me to have some entertainment away from the family. When the children would ask what time we'd be home, dad would say, "When you have the dinner dishes washed and the littlest ones tucked in."

Have Afternoon Free "He always wanted me to look fresh, but he didn't know how hard I sometimes worked to get the washing, ironing, and so on finished so I could have that afternoon free with him. I didn't like to leave too much for the children to do." When the children came home from school if mother were away or resting, there would be a note in the kitchen assigning the work among them. "Bill, milk the cow. Bob, feed the chickens. Dick, wash dishes. Catherine, peel potatoes for dinner. Glen and Calvin, weed the garden." Each child would run to see what his task was and the work would begin. There was always time left over for them to play or study or pursue individual interests. Most of the time life ran very smoothly, but occasionally one child would have a problem that would upset the whole family. Then it would take wise counseling to straighten it out so everyone could feel happy again. "Faith and prayer helped smooth the way " Mrs. Pratt explained. "We learned the wisdom of not crossing bridges ahead of time. Many problems that worried us solved themselves when the critical time came. "If there was jealousy, the children didn't show it after they were big enough to understand," Mrs. Pratt went on. "Each child had an individual temperament so that one needed attention in one way while others needed attention in a different way". "If one child felt there was favoritism for another, we explained that those who were following our instruction didn't need as much attention as those who were a little way ward—like the story of the lost sheep." "We learned that it was unnecessary to punish for minor offenses. Children outgrow many irritating or bad habits so it is enough to tell them to change those ways unless it is the type of offense that may lead to serious consequences such as lying or stealing. Then, if talking doesn't correct it, punishment should be resorted to." "We believed in spanking, 'but none of them got many, and it didn't hurt any of them. When one was spanked, it helped the whole family as the others would all sit up and behave themselves."

Form Habits Early "Children form their habits early. Little ones can't use good judgment because they don't have it, so the parents are responsible for setting the early pattern. If the parents leave the choice for the child to make after he is grown, he may not go the way the parents desire because the habits were never established." "It does a child no harm to be forced to do some things he may think unnecessary or disagreeable. Especially should early religious training be insisted upon. Then if the child follows another course after he is grown, at least the parents know they did their duty." "When the child learns his first prayer, it means little to him, but realization of values comes with growth. A child may dislike going to religious services, but he should attend anyway." Mrs. Pratt thinks a mother's place is in the home except in time of emergency. Then she should work only if her children are properly cared for during her absence. "A working mother does learn from outside contacts," she commented, "but she can benefit as much by reading and keeping up with world events. She can have outside contacts in some special activity. Mine has been church work." Mrs. Pratt considers the in-law question a two-way problem for she is mother-in-law to 13 sons- and daughters-in-law. "I have to be good to them because they are all so good to me. We have never had a minute's trouble." Her formula is both sensible and simple. "We all mind our own business. We are helpful whenever we can be, but we respect each other's privacy. I don't walk in on them except when I have an errand or am invited. Naturally I miss the children when they move to their own homes, but I am proud that they can manage their own affairs."

Expect Too Much "Parents shouldn't expect too much attention from their children but should realize that each one has his own life to live and so should learn to let them go." "Sometimes," Mrs.. Pratt recalls, "one of the children would say. "Wait until I'm old enough, then I'll repay you for all you've done for me.' We would always reply that parents don't expect pay, that we wanted them to reward us by growing into good, useful citizens loyal to the ideals we were trying to teach." The number in a "large" family is a relative thing as shown by one child who once protested, "Mother, why did we have so many children? It seems to me you could have done without the last five." "Before I was married," Mrs. Pratt recalled, "any little freckle-faced boy would steal my heart, and I always hoped most of mine would be boys Later, when it had turned out that way, I once said that the Lord had blessed us by sending so many boys. One of the girls (like many an older sister) said, 'I think He has a grudge against us.'" Despite her fondness for boys, when the 13th child was a girl after seven boys in a row, Mrs. Pratt said 13 was really her lucky number. At present, all 11 sons and one daughter live in or near Salt Lake City, three daughters having settled in California. In order of age, beginning with the eldest, the children are: Elmer, Julius, Ruth (McGhie), Florence (Showell), Alice, LeGrand, Harold, Chase, Joseph, William P. Jr., Robert, Richard, Catherine (Johnson), Glen and Calvin. There are at present 35 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Mrs. Pratt is justly proud of her family's war record. Six boys were in the service, three in the Army and three in the Navy. In addition, two sons-in-law were in the Army and three grandsons in the Navy. At one time during World War II, 13 of the children were engaged in occupations directly connected with the war effort. Family gatherings are always the occasion for merriment and reminiscences. "They are all loyal to one another," Mrs. Pratt says, "and I'm thankful for their sense of humor, too. A large family has special needs for a funny bone". Although Mrs. Pratt has been active in church work as much as possible, she always felt that her family came first. However, she was never too busy at home to give time, sympathy, or help to her neighbors and friends. Grandchildren and neighbors' children alike flock to her yard to play, and she is known affectionately as "Grandma" to them all. The 15 sons and daughters of Mrs. Catherine Pratt are, from left, Harold, Robert, Chase, Calvin, Julius, William, LeGrand, Richard, Glen. Inset from left, Joseph, Her personal philosophy has been that with a good husband, health, faith and many Ruth, Alice, Catherine, Florence and Elmer Pratt. Elmer is oldest. friends, one can meet anything life has to offer.

The older Pratt children, left to right: Elmer, Julius, Harold, Chase, Joe, Bill, Bob, Dick and Kitty around 1924-1925, before Elmer was married and moved away. April 22, 1962

Recording made for Gene:

This is Catherine Billeter Pratt. I am now 80 years old. As the years go by, I find my faith and testimony stronger than ever. My greatest joy and pleasure comes from seeing our children living the Gospel which comes by our activities in the church. By right living brings us renewed faith and determination to live all the commandments of God. I realized this more since my husband passed away 15 years ago. With no one in the home holding the Priesthood, which is essential, I have had to double my efforts to keep the right spirit in the home.

The good Lord has blessed me in so many ways. I have learned to acknowledge His hand in all things even though He says “No” to some of our petitions. When I miss sacrament meeting or a visit to the Temple, I always find plenty of good reading, sermons from all our Church leaders, from Joseph Smith down to present-day leaders. It always gives me inspiration to carry on.

My testimony runs much deeper than just a firm belief. It’s something you can’t quite explain and we have to keep in touch with those who receive revelation and inspiration from a divine source. We need all this to give us security. Daily prayers are our main guide. MY LITTLE BREAD AND BUTTER LIFE

CATHERINE B. PRATT Age eighty-three

I love my bread and butter life Nor would I change it for another. I’m just an average sort of wife. An ordinary sort of mother. I feel that fancy things are vain Like caviar on gold-trimmed dishes, Contentedly, I find my plain Old bread and butter is delicious. For me there’s no monotony Because of one-meal repetition. And I look forward gratefully To each meal’s pleasure and nutrition. Catherine B. Pratt I know that others yearn for more And find my bread and butter meager; Finds Many Uses for Greeting Cards But, often, all they’re looking for Catherine Billeter Pratt, who was born in Zurich, Switzerland, was brought by her parents Leaves them somewhat more bored than eager, to Utah in 1884, when she was two years old. She married William Parker Pratt, grandson of Parley P. Pratt, and they became the parents of fifteen children. There are now forty-four And I have friends that I love dearly, grandchildren, thirty-five great-grandchildren, as well as many step-grandchildren and Whose lives are bread and butter, too. step-great-granchildren. Over the years, Mrs. Pratt has received thousands of beautiful greeting cards - for We share our simple tastes and clearly her birthdays, for Christmas, for Valentine’s Day, Easter, Mother’s Day, and other Old-hat, old-fashioned point of view. occasions. Finding these cards “too beautiful to throw away,” Mrs. Pratt has made colorful scrapbooks for children, especially for children’s hospitals; and she has included greeting So let those who desire their pheasant cards with special messages in Books of Remembrance, in family histories, and in With its accompanying strife, photograph albums. She finds her “happy hobby” to be inexpensive, interesting, and important to herself, her family, and to her many friends. Her hobby is a way of keeping Have all they want. What I find pleasant? the time and the people and the places that might be lost or forgotten otherwise . . . a way My little bread and butter life! of remembering words of encouragement and friendship to mark the years and the seasons of a long and lovely life. Mrs. Pratt loves to write and read poetry, and she especially loves the poetry which appears in The Relief Society Magazine. She has been a member of the Tabernacle Choir and has served many years as a Relief Society visiting teacher. “My main hobby is people,” she says, “and I believe that if we do the best we can, the Lord meets us halfway”. I see her in her rocking chair When day's long work is done. I visualize her beauty rare. To MY MOTHER I know the love she's won. I see the toil of months and years Well worn now in her brow. I see her calming all my fears. I see it plainly now. I marvel at her tender love, And at her gracious care. I kneel before the throne above To give this humble prayer; Take care of Mother Dear, oh God, And bless her in Thy sight, For on Thy righteous path she's trod To bask in gospel light. She's taught each daughter and each son To love and honor Thee; A great reward she's rightly won For all eternity. And so, dear God, in thy Son's name, I humbly ask tonight, That thou wilt keep alive the flame Of Mother's holy light, To send it forth thru all the earth, To spread Thy truths again. For all these things of priceless worth I thank Thee, God; Amen. Your Son, (May 9, 1944, 19 years of age) Calvin This tribute to Catherine Billeter Pratt was inspired by a booklet , originally started as a fact finding project by William Parker Pratt, Jr.’s wife, Virginia, and her daughter Lawana Palmer, many years ago.

According to Lawana, “Sitting on Grandma’s footstool at her knee, gave me the peace and energy that the strong roots of heritage provide to the spreading branches of our own families. She taught me, and encouraged me to continue her tradition in preserving this family heritage”.

Grandma Pratt gave so much of herself, for so many children and layers of grandchildren, that her life seems like an obvious starting point around which to build family histories in her family for generations to come.

This book and computer document was first published in September of 2009.

Glen and Dick remain with us, of Catherine’s 15 children. Glen has reached 87, and Dick survives as senior sibling at an impressive 89 years.

This account is a modest summary only, consistent with the enviable character traits ascribed to Grandma Catherine. We would like this to be a creative nucleus for more stories, photos, articles and documents that our beloved Katie began when she married her sweetheart, William Parker Pratt, and started her impressive family. Send uplifting materials from your own collection, and links to your family web pages, so the continuing influence of this wonderful woman, and the results of her diligence and faith can continue to be enjoyed by her succeeding generations.

This is Edition 1.3, December 2009. To send or receive more information and current updates, please visit Grandma’s website: www.catherinebilleterpratt.com