Living History: Bror Sorenson, the Davies community, & the Walla Walla Jesus

Bror Sorenson, played by his great-great-grandson Ron Klicker, will describe his family’s immigration from their native Sweden to Utah, where they became followers of Joseph Morris, a new prophet challenging Brigham Young. After Morris and his followers were attacked by authorities and Morris killed, many went into exile and in 1867 some, including Sorenson, followed William W. Davies to the outskirts of Walla Walla. Here, Davies proclaimed a piece of land on Scenic Loop near what is now Mormon Grade a consecrated place, where he established what he called “the Kingdom of Heaven on Earth” and revealed himself as the incarnation of the Holy Spirit. In 1868, Davies proclaimed his newborn son the incarnation of Jesus Christ, and in 1869 identified another son as God the Father. After a diphtheria epidemic struck the religious commune in 1879 and his wife and sons died, several of his followers sued Davies in Walla Walla County Superior Court for the return of their pooled property and compensation for the labor they contributed to the community. After a trial, Davies’ land was sold to satisfy the judgment awarded against him, and the community was ultimately dissolved. Some, including Sorenson, remained faithful to their prophet throughout their lives. Ron Klicker is the owner of Klicker Berries & Antiques on East Isaacs in Walla Walla. In his experience with the Living History Company, he has portrayed Dr. Dorsey Baker, Capt. John Mullan, Lt. Col. Edward Steptoe, and H.E. Holmes. Living History performances take place in the Museum’s pioneer village on Myra Road, weather permitting, otherwise in the Grand Hall. Visitors are encouraged to question re-enactors about their experiences and views, and visit the Museum’s many displays and historic buildings.