Early morning on Sunday, March 12, 1916, word reached the saints in Colonia Dublan that Pancho Villa and his army had attacked Columbus, NM and was heading towards Dublan. "Word came to us that he was coming to the Colonies and would continue his slaughtering of all Americans." ("Life Story of Anson Bowen Call", pg 28.) Grandpa Call (the Bishop) called an emergency priesthood meeting to discuss what should be done. It was decided that Grandpa Call and a couple of other brethren would drive over to Colonia Juarez to ask Stake President Joseph C. Bently for his advice. At about 8:00 PM, Grandpa Call and party returned to Dublan. Upon their return, Grandpa Call told the saints that had quickly gathered around them what Pres. Bently had said. "President Bently told us that we know the conditions here better than he, and to do as we think best." ("Life Story of Anson Bowen Call", pg. 28.) Various proposals were presented and discussed. When all opinions had been voiced and discussed it was Grandpa Call's turn to speak. "Standing thoughtfully for a few moments, he than raised his head and looked around at the crowd of anxious faces. 'Let us all go home,' he said quietly. 'I feel impressed that we should go back to our homes, pray, blow out all our lights, and go to bed'. There was a moment of stunned silence; then one man spoke: 'That's a hell of a thing to tell us to do!' he said.'" ("Anson Bowen Call - Bishop of Colonia Dublan", pg.410.) The saints followed the inspired counsel of their Bishop and did as he advised. Early morning on Monday, March 13, Villa's army approached Dublan. They arrived on the outskirts of of town about 3:00 AM. They then turned east and rode away without entering or disturbing the town. None of the saints knew they had come and gone. Later evidence was discovered on how close Villa's army had been. Later it was also learned that Villa and his men had seen camp fires and armed men walking around the town. The colonists understood that something truly miraculous had happened on their behalf. The next Sunday, March 19, 1916, Bishop Call presided at a special assembly to give thanks to God for His divine intervention.
-----We celebrated the 1st Annual Call Holiday on Saturday night. We ate dinner on the porch and had a bonfire in mom and dad's backyard. During the bonfire, dad told us all this story. You should have seen Jack's eyes. They got big as Papa talked about "the Bandits." We then had s'mores (Can't have a bonfire without s'mores!) This is a great idea to help generations to remember the example of obedience and faith that was set for each of us by our ancestors.
Grandpa Call...I think Uncle Don looks the most like him, but then again maybe it's just the mustache! :)
Pancho Villa...in this story he wasn't a fan of the Mormon's, but other stories say that they actually had a mutual respect for each other.
