I remember a story my grandma told me about my ancestors. I even recall the story was published in a book.
Anyway, the story takes place in Norway. I understand it as the “family” introduction to the Church.
One year a cart of missionary pamphlets was found on the shore line. It was among other cargo that also washed ashore.
Apparently some lady, possibly an ancestor of mine found the cart, liked what she read, dried out the papers, and handed them out.
By the time missionaries came to the small town many where fairly well informed and interested in joining.