Today in Mormon History - Mar 31

Today in Mormon History ...

[David O McKay] I said that the only reason I could see that we employ another secretary at this time is that two of the girls in the Council of the Twelve offices are planning to be married, and insamuch as the Church does not hire married women, that this new girl could take the place of one of these girls. I said that although there are a few married women in the building, it is against the policy of the Church to employ married women. (1)
-- 60 years ago - Fri Mar 31, 1950

A large group of "citizens of Salt Lake City" approve a memorial to Congress: "We -- are believers in the principle of plural marriage or polygamy," the petition declared, "not simply as an elevating social relationship and a preventive of many terrible evils which afflict our race, but as a principle revealed by god, underlying our every hope of eternal salvation and happiness in heaven." Encouraging the Senate to reject the Cullom Bill, the petitioners expressed the predicament they would be in should the bill become law. "It gives us no alternative but the cruel one of rejecting God's command and abjuring our religion, or disobeying the authority of a government we desire to honor and respect." The Cullom bill would bar believers in polygamy from serving on juries and would not allow polygamists to hold public office, voting, or becoming naturalized citizens. It passes the house but does not pass the Senate. (2)
-- 140 years ago - Mar 31, 1870

[U.S. Religious History] The ACLU filed a complaint against Judge Moore, charging that his display of Ten Commandments and his practice of initiating courtroom proceedings with a prayer, violate the First Amendment. (3)
-- 15 years ago - Mar 31, 1995


1 - McKay, David O., Office Journal
2 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com
3 - Cline, Austin, History of American Religion: Timeline, http://am-rel-hist.gu.ma

Today in Mormon History - Mar 30

Today in Mormon History ...

William Clayton, while on a mission in England writes: "Rebecca brought me raw egg in some red wine. . . . My feet were very sore to[night]. Sarah [Crooks] washed them and gave me a pint of warm Porter." (1)
-- 170 years ago - Mar 30, 1840

[Media] The Constitution of the State of Deseret is printed on Ramage press in Salt Lake Valley. (2)
-- 160 years ago - March/April 1850

[Utah] Quorum of Twelve recommends establishment of separate unit or branch for African-American members in Salt Lake City. (3)
-- 55 years ago - Mar 30,1955


1 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com
2 - Sherry Baker: Mormon Media History Timeline: 1827-2007, http://byustudies.byu.edu/showTitle.aspx?title=7984
3 - Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power, Appendix 5, Selected Chronology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1848-1996

Today in Mormon History - Mar 29

Today in Mormon History ...

At 11 A.M. at the Kirtland Temple, Joseph Smith and four counselors meet in "Most Holy Place in the Lord's House and sought for a revelation from Him to teach us concerning our going to Zion. . ." After uniting in prayer three times they "call the other Presidents, the two Bishops and their councils (each to stand in his place) and fast through the day and also the night." The "word of the Lord" comes through Joseph Smith "that those who had entered the Holy Place must not leave the House untill morning, . . .we must clens[e] our feet and partake of the sacrament . . . Accordingly we proceeded and cleansed our faces and our feet, and then proceeded to wash each other's feet." Sidney Rigdon and Joseph Smith's wash each other's feet after which Rigdon washes Joseph Smith Senrio's and Hyrum Smith's feet. Joseph Smith washes Frederick G. Williams's feet and then Hyrum Smith washes David Whitmer's and Oliver Cowdery's feet. David Whitmer and William W. Phelps wash each other's fee
t. "The Bishops and their councils were then washed, after which we partook of the bread and wine." They stay in the temple all through the night. (1)
-- 175 years ago - Mar 29, 1835

David Marks, a Free-will Baptist evangelist, stops at the Whitmers house in Fayette, New York. The eight witnesses "affirmed, that an angel had showed them certain plates of metal, having the appearance of gold that were dug out of the ground by one Joseph Smith." They explain to Marks certain basic points about the Book of Mormon and its contents but claim to have viewed the plates in vision only. Eight days later the Church is officially organized in the Whitmers house. At the Palmyra Presbyterian Church it is "Resolved that Hiram Smith, Lucy Smith, and Samuel Harrison Smith be and they hereby are suspended from the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper." They are suspended for 18 months for "Neglect of public worship and the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper" and for not appearing a the hearing concerning the matter despite having been issued two citations to appear. (2)
-- 180 years ago - Mar 29, 1830

Marion D. Hanks, of the First Quorum of Seventy, is the keynote speaker at President Eisenhower's National Youth Conference in Washington D. C. (2)
-- 50 years ago - Mar 29, 1960


1 - This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html
2 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com

Today in Mormon History - Mar 28

Today in Mormon History ...

Revelation on priesthood (D&C 107) given through Joseph Smith. (1)
-- 175 years ago - Mar 28, 1835

Joseph Smith announces a revelation on priesthood which includes statements that the First Presidency, Quorum of Twelve Apostles, First Quorum of Seventy, and central high council are all "equal in authority." The revelation authorized the Twelve to ordain patriarchs in "large branches," but not stakes where only the First Presidency ordained patriarchs until Oct 1844. The "Twelve met in council and had a time of general confession. On reviewing our past course we are satisfied and feel to confess also that we have not realized the importance of our calling to that degree that we ought. We have been light minded and vain and in many things done WRONG, WRONG. For all these things we have asked forgiveness of our Heavenly Father, and wherein we have grieved or wounded the feelings of the Presidency we ask their forgiveness." (2)

Kirtland, Ohio. Joseph Smith received the final portions of Doctrine & Covenants 107, a revelation concerning the order and offices of the priesthood. (3)


1 - Ludlow, Daniel H. editor, Encyclopedia of Mormonism, Macmillan Publishing, Encyclopedia of Mormonism, Vol. 4, Appendix 2: A Chronology of Church History
2 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html
3 - BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith

Today in Mormon History - Mar 27

Today in Mormon History ...

[1st Presidency Changes] Joseph F. Smith Anthon H. Lund Death of John R. Winder (never ordained an apostle) (1)
-- 100 years ago - Mar 27, 1910 - 7 April 1910

Wilford Woodruff records that after a day of preaching and baptizing "two females had a fit in the evening. I lade hands upon them & they soon recovered." (2)
-- 170 years ago - Mar 27, 1840

[Harold B. Lee] Organizes the first stake in Europe at Manchester, England. (3)
-- 50 years ago - Mar 27, 1960


1 - Wikipedia, First Presidency (LDS Church), http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_Presidency_(LDS_Church)#Chronology_of_the_First_Presidency
2 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com
3 - Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Harold B. Lee, Salt Lake City, Utah

Today in Mormon History - Mar 26

Today in Mormon History ...

The Book of Mormon is first advertised for sale. 5000 copies are printed and the WAYNE SENTINAL publishes the title page of the Book of Mormon with the announcement: "The above work, containing about 600 pages, large Deuodecimo, is now for sale, wholesale and retail, at the Palmyra Bookstore, by E. B. Grandin." A few days later Joseph Smith gives Oliver Cowdery the brown "seer stone" with which Smith discovered the gold plates (according to Brigham Young) and translated the Book of Mormon into English (according to Smith's wife Emma, Cowdery's wife Elizabeth, Martin Harris, David Whitmer, Hyrum Smith, and William Smith who witnessed the translation process). Smith had previously used this seer stone in his family's quest for enchanted treasure. (1)
-- 180 years ago - Mar 26, 1830

Higbee, Elias: Left Clay County 26 March 1835. (2)
-- 175 years ago - Mar 26, 1835

[U.S. Religious History] In the encyclical Evangelium Vitae, Pope John Paul II ordered all Catholic voters, judges, and legislators to obey Vatican teaching in their decisions and votes: "In the case of an intrinsically unjust law, such as a law permitting abortion or euthanasia, it is never licit to obey it, or to take part in a propaganda campaign in favor of such a law, or to vote for it." (3)
-- 15 years ago - Mar 26, 1995


1 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com
2 - Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985
3 - Cline, Austin, History of American Religion: Timeline, http://bit.ly/Fwgbe

Today in Mormon History - Mar 25

Today in Mormon History ...

[Anointed Quorum] Prayer circle meeting in evening; anointing and endowment for "E. B." (WR). Could be Emmeline B. Woodward (plural wife of Newel Whitney), or Elizabeth Brotherton (plural wife of Parley P. Pratt who was in the eastern states at this time). William Clayton refers to "E. B." accepting Heber Kimball's polygamous "instructions" on 20 Sept. 1845. (1)
-- 165 years ago - Mar 25, 1845

Samuel W. Richards takes notes on Brigham Young's sermon: "Adam and Eve were made of the dust of the Earth from which they came -- they brought there bodies with them. They had lived and died and been resurrected before they came here and they came with immortal bodies, and had to partake of the fruit of this earth in order to bring forth mortal bodies, or natural bodies, that their seed might be of the dust of this Earth as they were of the dust of the earth from which they came" (2)
-- 155 years ago - Mar 25, 1855

[Mark Hofmann] "Mike Hansen" orders a second plate of the "Oath of a Freeman." (3)
-- 25 years ago - Mar 25, 1985


1 - Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Signature Books, 1994, Appendex: Meetings and Initiations of the Anointed Quorum, 1842-45
2 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com
3 - Whittaker, David J., The Hofmann Maze, A Book Review Essay with a Chronology and Bibliography of the Hofmann Case, BYU Studies Vol. 29, No. 1, pg.80,

Journals of Joseph Smith, Wilford Woodruff, & Eliza R. Snow on display

On the mountains of truth you can never climb in vain: either you will
reach a point higher up today, or you will be training your powers so
that you will be able to climb higher tomorrow. -Friedrich Nietzsche,
philosopher (1844-1900)

"Treasures of the Collection Open House"

http://www.lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?locale=0&sourceId=22b805133f847210VgnVCM100000176f620a____&vgnextoid=d1f9ec038356e110VgnVCM100000176f620aRCRD

Come enjoy a rare and unique display of historical items from the
archives of the Church History Library.

Friday April 2, 2010 5:00 pm-9:00 pm

Saturday April 3, 2010 12:00 pm-2:00pm and 4:00 pm-9:00 pm

See the journals of Joseph Smith, Wilford Woodruff, Eliza R. Snow and
other Latter-day Saints. Learn about the scriptures, including the
Book of Mormon manuscript and the rare 1833 Book of Commandments. View
photographs of Mormon pioneers and early Mormon scenes. Experience
Church history through these and other treasures of the collection.

Today in Mormon History - Mar 24

Today in Mormon History ...
Records of Presbyterian Church of Palmyra note: "Hiram Smith, Lucy Smith, and Samuel Harrison Smith not appearing pursuant to the citation served upon them by P[elatiah] West-Resolved that they be again cited to appear before his session on Monday the 29th inst. At this place at 2 o'clock P.M.- and that P[elatiah] West serve said citation." When they do not appear on the 29th they are "suspended from the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper." (1)
-- 180 years ago - Mar 24, 1830
[Joseph Smith] A disaffected Mormon writes that Theodore Turley, of the Council of Fifty, has prepared a press in Nauvoo for counterfeiting, and that Turley gave the man a counterfeit $5.00 bill. (2)
-- 165 years ago - Mar 24, 1845
First Presidency shortens "the standard term of service for lady missionaries" from 24 months to 18 months.
-- 40 years ago - Mar 24, 1970    

1 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com
2 - Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 7: Selected Chronology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47"

Today in Mormon History - Mar 23

Today in Mormon History ...

[David O McKay] Called Doyle Green, upon receipt of a letter from him dated March 23, in which he stated that the Editorial Staff had decided against publishing an article on sugar which I had sent to them sometime ago with the request that they publish it in an early issue of the magazine. I told Brother Green that I wanted and had requested that the article be published, and that I should take all responsibility." He answered that the reason for their decision was that it had not been proven scientifically sound and I answered him, "Neither was the other article you published against sugar scientifically sound."
March 31, 1950: I said that the only reason I could see that we employ another secretary at this time is that two of the girls in the Council of the Twelve offices are planning to be married, and insamuch as the Church does not hire married women, that this new girl could take the place of one of these girls. I said that although there are a few married women in the building, it is against the policy of the Church to employ married women. (1)
-- 60 years ago - Thu Mar 23, 1950

Christopher Stafford, a neighbor of Joseph Smith in Manchester, NY, and brother-in-law of Orrin Porter Rockwell writes in a signed statement, "Jo[seph Smith] was the laziest one of the family, and a dull scholar as were all the Smiths except Harrison and Catherine. . . . Joe claimed he could tell where money was buried, with a witch hazel consisting of a forked stick of hazel. He held it one fork in each hand and claimed the upper end was attracted by the money. . . . My mother-in-law Mrs. [Sarah Witt] Rockwell, said that the Prophet Jo Smith told her there was money buried in the ground and she spent considerable tie digging in various places for it. . . . Jo Smith told me there was a peep-stone for me and many others if we could only find them." (2)
-- 125 years ago - Mar 23, 1885

Higbee, Elias: Left Washington for Nauvoo 23 March 1840. (3)
-- 170 years ago - Mar 23, 1840


1 - McKay, David O., Office Journal
2 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com
3 - Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985

Today in Mormon History - Mar 22

Today in Mormon History ...

The first stake in Africa was organized in Transvaal, South Africa. (1)
-- 40 years ago - Mar 22, 1970

[Lucy Mack Smith] Eunice Stoddard, the first child of Sophronia Smith Stoddard and Calvin Stoddard, is born at Palmyra and dies in infancy. (2)
-- 180 years ago - Mar 22, 1830

[U.S. Religious History] American televangelist Pat Robertson was born. (3)
-- 80 years ago - Mar 22, 1930


1 - Church News: Historical chronology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
2 - Anderson, Lavina Fielding, Editor, Lucy's Book: A Critical Edition of Lucy Mack Smith's Family Memoir, 2001, Signature Books
3 - Cline, Austin, History of American Religion: Timeline, http://bit.ly/Fwgbe

Today in Mormon History - Mar 21

Today in Mormon History ...

[Anointed Quorum] Prayer circle meeting of "the Holy order" at Joseph B. Noble's house; second anointing for Heber C. Kimball and Sarah Ann Whitney (Smith, Kingsbury, Kimball), and for Brigham Young and Lucy Decker (Seeley, Young) (HCK, WR, DMQ). (1)
-- 165 years ago - Mar 21, 1845

Manchester, New York. Joseph Smith received Doctrine & Covenants 19, a revelation to Martin Harris concerning repentance and the Atonement of Jesus Christ. (2)
-- 180 years ago - about Mar 21, 1830

[Mark Hofmann] Wilding and Co. investors give Hofmann $22,500 to purchase rare books. (3)
-- 25 years ago - Mar 21, 1985


1 - Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Signature Books, 1994, Appendex: Meetings and Initiations of the Anointed Quorum, 1842-45
2 - BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith
3 - Whittaker, David J., The Hofmann Maze, A Book Review Essay with a Chronology and Bibliography of the Hofmann Case, BYU Studies Vol. 29, No. 1, pg.80,

Today in Mormon History - Mar 19

Today in Mormon History ...

[Black History] The Book of Mormon is published,
The dark skin is equated with a curse which was a result of rebellion, "And he had caused the cursing to come upon them, yea, even a sore cursing, because of their iniquity. For behold, they had hardened their hearts against him, that they had become like unto a flint; wherefore, as they were white, and exceedingly fair and delightsome, that they might not be enticing unto my people the Lord God did cause a skin of blackness to come upon them", cf. 2 Ne. 5:21.
The dark skin is explicitly presented as a "mark", a "curse... because of...transgression" and as a means of separating different cultures, "And the skins of the Lamanites were dark, according to the mark which was set upon their fathers, which was a curse upon them because of their transgression and their rebellion against their brethren, who consisted of Nephi, Jacob, and Joseph, and Sam, who were just and holy men. And their brethren
sought to destroy them, therefore they were cursed; and the Lord God set a mark upon them, yea, upon Laman and Lemuel, and also the sons of Ishmael, and Ishmaelitish women. And this was done that their seed might be distinguished from the seed of their brethren, that thereby the Lord God might preserve his people, that they might not mix and believe in incorrect traditions which would prove their destruction", cf. Alma 3:6-8.
It also states that it was "against [Nephite civil] law" to hold slaves, cf. Alma 27:9 and Mosiah 2:13. (1)
-- 180 years ago - Mar 19, 1830

Brigham Young's office journal notes: "Pres. Joseph Young reported that Almerin Grow would attend his councils at the Seventies Hall. The President requested Bro. A. Carrington to read an affidavit made by Almerin Grow that the Library was destroyed by Brigham Young. President Young observed he ought not to attend Seventies or Bishops Meetings." (2)
-- 150 years ago - Mar 19, 1860

A First Presidency letter stated: "There is much concern on the part of the brethren concerning the apparent increase in homosexuality and other deviations, and we call to your attention a program designed. . . to counsel and direct them back to total normalcy and happiness." The letter designated Apostles Spencer W. Kimball and Mark E. Petersen to "send material and give counsel." Apostle Kimball's "New Horizons for Homosexuals" (later titled "A Letter to a Friend") had sections titled "It is Curable" and "Multiply and Replenish," which recommended that homosexually-oriented young men should get married and father children as signs of overcoming their same-sex desires. (2)
-- 40 years ago - Mar 19, 1970


1 - http://www.xtimeline.com/events.aspx?q=Bif200802111550260291166
2 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com

Today in Mormon History - Mar 18

Today in Mormon History ...
Brigham Young's office journal records: "[Heber C. Kimball] observed that mormonism had made him all that he was: he was worth $20,000 now; and if he had remained in the States he would have been a poor man to this day." Devout Mormon writes: "Sunday preaching by John Taylor [is] long and dry." (1)
-- 150 years ago - Mar 18, 1860
Judge James B. McKean, with whom the Mormons had been unhappy, was removed from office by U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant. (2)
-- 165 years ago - Mar 18, 1845    While on a mission in England Apostle Wilford Woodruff dreams "a rattle snake bit me on the ancle. I pulled him off squoze him to death & much poison came out of his mouth. The interpretation is when we arrive in Edinborough I shall be opposed by the presiding elder for appointing Br Banks to preside over that branch of the Church & conference. (1)


1 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com
2 - Church News: Historical chronology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Today in Mormon History - Mar 17

Today in Mormon History ...
Brigham Young "remarked a woman purporting to be his wife used to lecture against Mormonism in the States; and a man used to accompany her as a protector, they were caught in bed together and published in the Eastern papers." (1)
-- 150 years ago - Mar 17, 1860
[Same Sex Marriage] Utah's LDS governor, Michael Leavitt, signs the country's first DOMA legislation which indicated that the state of Utah recognizes only marriages between persons of different sex, including those that might be performed in other states. (2)
-- 15 years ago - Mar 17, 1995
Former President Andrew Jackson returned home to Tennessee, and said that he left office "with barely $90 in my pocket." This marked the beginning of the Panic of 1837, an ensuing national depression, and the resultant need for the US Government to borrow money to meet its financial obligations. Practically every bank in the US stopped redeeming bank notes before the end of March.
-- 173 years ago - (Fri) Mar 17, 1837 (3)

1 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com
2 - Crapo, Richley, Chronology Of Mormon / LDS Involvement In Same-Sex Marriage Politics http://www.mormonsocialscience.org/?q=node/59
3 -  Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm

Today in Mormon History - Mar 16

Today in Mormon History ...

In England Wilford Woodruff obtains a preaching license. He has to classify himself as a "protestant" and swear allegiance to Queen Victoria. A few days later an Anglican rector sends a constable to arrest Woodruff for preaching without a license. Woodruff shows his license and invites the constable to stay for the sermon. The constable remains and afterwards asks to be baptized. (1)
-- 170 years ago - Mar 16, 1840

Brigham Young discusses "the abuses of the Postal arrangements, they are a set of thieves from beginning to end, In one instance they opened a communication that Geo[rge] A. Smith sent to his bro[ther] and published it." (1)
-- 150 years ago - Mar 16, 1860

In Thatcher, Arizona, a church court presided over by two apostles considers charges against Stake President Christopher Layton: "charged Bro. Layton with using ardent spirits and using profane language and of associating with bad men at Tucson." The first two charges are "fairly well proven" and "fairly well sustained" respectively but the third charge "fell to the ground. Bro. C. Layton confessed wrongdoing and asked forgiveness, which was granted." He is not removed from his position as stake president. (1)
-- 120 years ago - Mar 16, 1890


1 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com

Today in Mormon History - Mar 15

Today in Mormon History ...

The first stake in Asia was organized in Tokyo, Japan. (1)
-- 40 years ago - Mar 15, 1970

Tenth anniversary of Gordon B. Hinckley's ordination as President of the Church. (2)
-- 5 years ago - Mar 15, 2005

[Mark Hofmann] Thomas Wilding and Associate Syd Jensen, at Hofmann's invitation, agree to invest $22,500 in eighteen rare books. (3)
-- 25 years ago - Mar 15, 1985


1 - Church News: Historical chronology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
2 - Wikipedia, 21st Century (Mormonism), http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/21st_century_(Mormonism)
3 - Whittaker, David J., The Hofmann Maze, A Book Review Essay with a Chronology and Bibliography of the Hofmann Case, BYU Studies Vol. 29, No. 1, pg.80,

Today in Mormon History - Mar 14

Today in Mormon History ...

Utah makes unlawful cohabitation a felony. Even federal anti-polygamy crusade of 1880's did not do this. With encouragement for First Presidency, stake president Hugh B. Brown writes this bill and Mormon legislators pass it. (1)
-- 75 years ago - Mar 14, 1935

Palmyra, New York. Joseph Smith wrote what became the preface to the first edition of the Book of Mormon. (2)
-- 180 years ago - about Mar 14, 1830

Senator Thomas H. Benton of Missouri checks out BOOK OF MORMON from Library of Congress. He does not return it until Jun 3, 1851, first national leader to voluntarily show interest in Mormon scriptures. (1)
-- 160 years ago - Mar 14, 1850


1 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html
2 - BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith

Today in Mormon History - Mar 13

Today in Mormon History ...

Ephraim Smith, brother of Joseph Smith born at Royalton, Vermont; he lives only 11 days. (1)
-- 200 years ago - Mar 13, 1810

Apostle Heber J. Grant writes in his journal: "After we had had our Prayer Circle I asked the Presidency to give me their counsel and advice with reference to what action should be taken about Hyrum Grant or me marrying the widow of Geo[rge] Grant. I told them that I was better able to care for four wives from a financial standpoint than Hyrum was one. Told them that I had no desire to turn away from this matter in case there was a feeling that I should marry the widow. They were unanimously of the opinion that it would not be wise for me to take the step and suggested that I encourage Hyrum to do it." Plural wife writes of her husband: "We are more like lovers than husband and wife for we are as far removed from each other [-] there is always the embarrassment of lovers and yet we have been married more than 37 years." (1)
-- 120 years ago - Mar 13, 1890

The NON-MORMON NEWS, a BYU student paper for and by non-Mormons reports that when one student raised a question in class, his instructor told him to "go home and repent and put [his] thoughts in harmony with the teachings of the brethren." (1)
-- 30 years ago - Mar 13, 1980


1 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html

Today in Mormon History - Mar 12

Today in Mormon History ...

The Twelve Apostles meet in Kirtland: "It was then proposed that during their present mission, Elder Brigham Young should open the door of the Gospel to the remnants of Joseph, who dwell among the Gentiles, which was carried." (1)
-- 175 years ago - Mar 12, 1835

SALT LAKE TRIBUNE has article on recently-released book MORMONISM FOR DUMMIES by LDS authors Jana Riess and Christopher Bigelow: "Probably the trickiest part to write was the section on race, Bigelow said. 'We didn't want to call the church to repentance, but we wanted to acknowledge that many Mormons still don't think we've fully come to terms with our past racism.' Given that Mormons don't talk about temple rituals to outsiders, the chapter on temples was 'quite sensitive to write,' he said. 'During revision, we pulled back on several details about logistics inside the temple.'" (1)
-- 5 years ago - Mar 12, 2005

Tuxtla Gutierrez Mexico Temple; Location: Tuxtla Gutierrez, Chiapas, Mexico; Announcement: 25 February 1999; Dedication: 12 March 2000 by James E. Faust; Style: Classic modern, single-spire design (2)
-- 10 years ago - Mar 12, 2000


1 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html
2 - Wikipedia, List of Temples of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_temples_of_The_Church_of_Jesus_Christ_of_Latter-day_Saints#List_of_temples


--Like the Old Testament? http://old-testament.blogspot.com/

Turley and Walker, "Mountain Meadows Massacre: The Andrew Jenson and David H. Morris Collections" (reviewed by Blair Dee Hodges)


Review
======

Title: Mountain Meadows Massacre: The Andrew Jenson and David H. Morris Collections
Editors: Richard E. Turley, Jr., Ronald W. Walker
Publisher: Brigham Young University Press/University of Utah Press
Genre: History
Year: 2009
Pages: 342+ index [number includes the index, so is the format right?]
ISBN: 9780842527231
Binding: Cloth
Price: $44.95

Reviewed by Blair Dee Hodges

Andrew Jenson's 1892 mission call was unique. It was startling. As a full-time employee of the Church Historian's Office he was called—not to preach the good news—but to listen to the worst. Jenson's "letter of instructions" from the First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints outlined his purpose:

"There have been many facts already published concerning [the Mountain Meadows Massacre]; but there is an opinion prevailing that all the light that can be obtained has not been thrown upon it. Many of those who had personal knowledge concerning what occurred at that time have passed away. Others are passing away; and ere long there will be no person alive who will know anything about it, only as they learn it from that which is written. We are desirous to obtain all the information that is possible upon this subject; not necessarily for publication, but that the Church may have it in its possession for the vindication of innocent parties, and that the world may know, when the time comes, the true facts connected with it" (3).

The letter was a kind of recommend Jenson would use to seek information during his wintry 620-mile round trip through southern Utah. It had been over 30 years since more than a hundred California-bound emigrants were slaughtered by Mormon settlers and some Paiute Indians in the Mountain Meadows Massacre, "arguably the worst incident in Latter-day Saint and antebellum Ozark history" (preface).

Jenson returned from his trip exhausted, reporting to the First Presidency: "I . . . have been successful in getting the desired information…But it has been an unpleasant business. The information that I received made me suffer mentally and deprived me of my sleep at nights" (6). The fruit of Jenson's mission, scribbled field notes as well as polished reports, served as sources for Orson F. Whitney's "History of Utah." But the informants had been promised anonymity, further blunting their credibility. A portion of Jenson's 30-plus documents remained closed in the First Presidency's collection, another portion largely forgotten in the Church Historian's Office (6-7). This is known as the Andrew Jenson collection.

Another collection of documents wasn't so easily forgotten, due in part to historian Juanita Brooks. While researching for her path-breaking book The Mountain Meadows Massacre (Stanford University Press, 1950), Brooks became aware of a group of affidavits collected by David H. Morris, an attorney and judge from St. George. Morris said little about his purpose in collecting statements from people connected to the massacre. Several of the documents in his collection pertained to other matters altogether (292). Brooks knew of, and became particularly interested in, a telegram in the collection from a man named "Lund," whom she incorrectly suspected was Anthon H. Lund, a member of the First Presidency (295).

To Brooks's chagrin the little collection was given to the First Presidency by Helen Forsha Hafen (Morris's foster daughter) after Morris died in 1937. "My hell, we're not supposed to read these," her "cowpuncher husband" Paul exclaimed (293). Despite Brooks's persistence (and a letter of recommend from one of her local church leaders) she was never allowed access (293-295). There they remained, like the Jensen collection, inaccessible to researchers for decades.

Most of the statements in the respective collections had been given under a vow of confidentiality. Church leaders were worried about stirring up old wounds among Mormons or providing fuel for critics of Mormonism (295). Now, the Jenson and Morris collections are available in their entirety for the first time; from the First Presidency's vault to the bookshelf.

The collections came to light again in 2002 during research for the book "Massacre at Mountain Meadows" by Richard E. Turley, Jr., Ronald W. Walker, and Glen M. Leonard (Oxford University Press, 2008). Turley and Walker have put together a beautiful though haunting book, containing color scans and full transcriptions of each of the often-barely-legible documents. "Mountain Meadows Massacre: The Andrew Jenson and David H. Morris Collections" is intended as a "supplement" to "Massacre":

"All the materials we used [for Massacre at Mountain Meadows] that are owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are now available at the Church History Library in downtown Salt Lake City. Among these materials are two sets of documents in which historians have had an interest for many years. To make these materials more widely available to the public—particularly those individuals who do not have access to the library—we are presenting these two collections in their entirety in this book" (preface).

The thin rectangular book (11 x 8.4 x 1.1 inches) contains little analysis of the content of the documents. Instead, the editors have provided short but helpful biographical summaries and detailed footnotes to flesh out the background of each piece in the collections. Some of the documents barely pertain to the massacre, and one—an affidavit from a plural wife of Joseph Smith—is included only to ensure publication of the entire collections (fully blank pages are also not included).

In a few instances the editors give a glimpse into their earlier use of some of the sources: "No testimony of a human witness can ever be completely accurate," they write in regards to massacre participant Nephi Johnson's affidavit, "nor was Johnson's, especially because so many years had passed between the massacre and his affidavits. Like other white settlers who played a part in the massacre, Johnson gave varying accounts of the role of the Indians, failing in his version of events to give convincing answers about why they were willing to take part in the killing and making too much of their role. Still, much from Johnson's statements has the ring of truth. Some of his details were confirmed by other witnesses. Other details in his accounts are convincing because they fit into a general pattern of personalities and events. They agree with what was going on, and their sequence is right. And the affidavits had the weight of Johnson's overall reputation for honesty--despite the awful stain of having spent two days at the Meadows in 1857" (326, see also 296).

Examining these sources brings readers a harrowing step closer to the tragic murders. It also brings into sharp focus the difficulty of researching or writing about the massacre, considering the partial or conflicting reports, the scattered recollections, and the high potential for prevarication and justification. Seeing actual handwriting and imagining the circumstances of these collections can put flesh on these ghosts, some of whom made great efforts to keep things hidden. Consider the chilling statement of Mary S. Campbell, a resident of Cedar City, who recalled:

"After the massacre the teachers were sent around enjoining upon the people to keep their mouths closed Example: If you see a dead men laying on your wood pile dead, you must not tell but go about your business. The people of Cedar was aware of the white's being guilty and hence causioned to be caref silent from the first" (45).

This meticulously edited and excellently produced book is a welcome addition to the ongoing BYU Studies series, "Documents in Latter-day Saint History." Its editors, publishers, and other contributors deserve much praise for their efforts to increase historical understanding by making these sources available. The intent behind this particular volume runs deeper, however, as noted by the editors: "While the massacre continues to shock and distress, we hope that the publication of these documents will be a further step in facilitating understanding, sharing sorrows, and promoting reconciliation" (preface).

-Blair Hodges

Today in Mormon History - Mar 11

Today in Mormon History ...

Cathy Rowland is born. She is the first Mormon to be Playboy magazine-s -Playmate of the Month- Aug 1971. (1)
-- 60 years ago - Mar 11, 1950

Nauvoo, Illinois. Joseph Smith wrote a letter to Robert D. Foster. (2)
-- 170 years ago - Mar 11, 1840

Oaxaca Mexico Temple; Location: Oaxaca, Oaxaca, Mexico; Announcement: 3 February 1999; Dedication: 11 March 2000 by James E. Faust; Style: Classic modern, single-spire design (3)
-- 10 years ago - Mar 11, 2000


1 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com
2 - BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith
3 - Wikipedia, List of Temples of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_temples_of_The_Church_of_Jesus_Christ_of_Latter-day_Saints#List_of_temples


--Like the Old Testament? http://old-testament.blogspot.com/

Today in Mormon History - Mar 10

Today in Mormon History ...
Reverend A. E. Campbell and H. Jessup report back to the Presbyterian church in Palmyra: "The committee appointed to visit Hiram Smith, Lucy Smith, and Samuel Harrison Smith reported that they had visited them and received no satisfaction. They acknowledged that they had entirely neglected the ordinances of the church for the last eighteenth months and that they did not wish to unite with us anymore. Whereupon Resolved that they be cited to appear before the session on the 24th day of Mar inst., at 2 o'clock P.M. at this Meeting House to answer to the following charge to wit: Neglect of public worship and the sacrament of the Lord's Supper for the last eighteen months." On Mar 29, they "are suspended from the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper." (1)
-- 180 years ago - Mar 10, 1830
 
Mormon Benjamin Blackbury is arrested in Nauvoo on a charge of perjury. However approximately 125 armed Mormons take him from the custody of the sherriff. Word of the incident reaches the governor who is asked to order a posse comitatus to take Brackenbury. Brigham Young then relents and sends Blackbury with a bodyguard of six men to answer the charges. (1)
-- 165 years ago - Mar 10, 1845

1 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html

--Like the Old Testament? http://old-testament.blogspot.com/

Today in Mormon History - Mar 09

Today in Mormon History ...

Brigham Young's office journal records: "Conversation . . . fell upon the subject of the unpleasantness which attends marrying women of property, the President observed he had been singularly fortunate on that head for one or two of his women had a little property coming to them but they did not get it, and the other woman had but little." (1)
-- 150 years ago - Mar 9, 1860

Apostle John Henry Smith examines the foundation of the St. George Temple and finds "the Mineral is eating away even the black rock as it does the sand stone." (1)
-- 100 years ago - Mar 9, 1910

Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, Orson Pratt, Parley P. Pratt, George A. Smith, R. Hedlock sail to England, arrive in Liverpool 6-Apr; Wilford Woodruff, John Taylor, Willard Richards, William Clayton, and John Moon also there [per Brigham Young]. (2)
-- 170 years ago - Mar 9, 1840


1 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html
2 - Tidd, N. R., "Mormon Chronology," http://bit.ly/14Qt5F


--Like the Old Testament? http://old-testament.blogspot.com/

Today in Mormon History - Mar 08

Today in Mormon History ...

Paul Toscano is asked to be a witness at the temple wedding of Ron and Kathy Ray in Mesa, Arizona. At the door his and Margaret Toscano's recommends are confiscated and they are refused entrance. The temple president informs them that their bishop, Sheldon Talbot, called the temple president requesting that action. The Toscanos immediately call him. He gives them no information except that they are "unworthy" to enter the temple, even though they accompanied Kathy for her endowments the day before. Distressed and humiliated the Toscanos participate in the brunch and reception and then return to Orem, Utah, where they discover that several friends have received summonses to church courts, essentially as "accomplices" of the Toscanos. Finally, they learn that Talbot is acting on rumors that the Toscanos have been conducting the temple endowment in their home, are performing plural marriages, have been teaching false doctrine, and have been leading others out of the church. Elde
r Mark E. Petersen refuses to meet with Paul. A former BYU bishop intervenes with Elder Petersen. The scheduled courts are canceled. Over the next six months, the Toscanos meet with their stake president and bishop three times in lengthy sessions of five to six hours each. The stake presidency's investigation concludes that there is no substance to the rumors. Their temple recommends are returned to them. (1)
-- 30 years ago - Mar 8, 1980.

At Kirtland an additional 69 brethren are blessed for having "assisted in building the House of the Lord in Kirtland." (2)
-- 175 years ago - Mar 8, 1835

Future apostle James E. Talmage writes in his diary: "According to an appointment of long standing, I this day went to Provo and there delivered a lecture on the "Theory of Evolution" before the County Teacher's Convention. The convention, after listening to the lecture, asked permission to publish it. Because of the importance of the subject and the ease with which misunderstandings arise as to a speaker's intentions, I read the lecture from notes" As an Apostle Talmage supported the theory of evolution against efforts by Joseph Fielding Smith to discount it. (2)
-- 120 years ago - Mar 8, 1890


1 - Anderson, Lavina Fielding, "The LDS Intellectual Community and Church Leadership: A Contemporary Chronology," Dialogue, Vol.26, No.1
2 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html


--Like the Old Testament? http://old-testament.blogspot.com/

Today in Mormon History - Mar 07

Today in Mormon History ...

In Kirtland, Ohio "a meeting of the Church of Latter Day Saints was called in this place for the purpose of blessing in the name of the Lord those who have heretofore assisted in building by their labor & other means, the House of the Lord in this Place." Concerning the uncompleted Kirtland Temple Joseph Smith preaches "that those who built this house should own it, and have the control of it." Fifty men are "blessed in consequence of their working on the House of the Lord Kirtland . . ." It is clarified that the "right in the House of the Lord" that the men are blessed with "is according to each man's labor or amount of donations." "W[illia]m Carter, who was blind, was promised a blessing of being restored to sight if faithful." (1)
-- 175 years ago - Mar 7, 1835

CHURCH NEWS reports that Ken Shelly and his partner have won U.S. Figure Skating championship for pairs. They win again (1971, 1972), and Shelley also wins men-s national comnpetition (1972). Billy and Cori-Joe Petrunik receive gold medal as LDS pair of figure-skaters at Canada Winter Games (1975). Holly Cook receives bronze medal at World Figure Skating Championships (1990). (1)
-- 40 years ago - Mar 7, 1970

Actor and former child star Rick Schroder appears as a guest on "shock-jock" Howard Stern's radio show. Schroder, an LDS convert of 4 years, is asked about his temple garments. Schroder says he is wearing them but declines to show them to Stern. Schroder also says that masturbation is not against his religion. (1)
-- 5 years ago - Mar 7, 2005


1 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html


--Like the Old Testament? http://old-testament.blogspot.com/

Today in Mormon History - Mar 06

Today in Mormon History ...
Joseph Smith Jr.: Completed Book of Mormon translation with brown seer stone, announced its publication 26 Mar. 1830, and gave brown seer stone to Oliver Cowdery (1)
-- 180 years ago - Mar 6, 1830
[Apostle John Henry Smith] After fighting challenges to election, takes seat in convention and is elected president. Presides until its conclusion in May. (2)
-- 115 years ago - Mar 6, 1895
Heber C. Kimball tells Apostle Woodruff: "The North will never have the power to crush the South [-] No never. The Lord will give the South power to fight the North until they will destroy Each other."
--145 years ago - Mar 6, 1865    

1 - Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 6, Biographical Sketches of General Officers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47
2 - White, Jean Bickmore, Church, State, and Politics, p.xviii, A John Henry Smith Chronology

--Like the Old Testament? http://old-testament.blogspot.com/

Today in Mormon History - Mar 05

Today in Mormon History ...

Orson Pratt gives a "lecture upon Philosophy" at the Tabernacle in Salt Lake City. "He treated upon light and the two theories by which it is conveyed also vibration music, sound, its velocity in air & water and showed how the velocity of light was discovered by stars astronomer while taking an observation of the four moons of Jupiter. . . . He was followed by John Taylor concerning what the Lord says about his being the light of the Sun and of all worlds & the power by which all things were formed." Joseph Smith III writes: "I am soon going to take my father's place at the head of the Mormon Church." He becomes president of the RLDS church soon afterwards. (1)
-- 150 years ago - Mar 5, 1860

The Coalville Tabernacle, called "one of the four or five outstanding LDS buildings still standing" by the Utah Heritage Foundation, is officially listed on the Utah State Register of historic sites. (1)
-- 40 years ago - Mar 5, 1970

Nauvoo, Illinois. After his return from a fruitless visit to Washington, D.C., to seek redress for injustices the Saints suffered in Missouri, Joseph Smith proclaimed the iniquity and insolence of Martin Van Buren, the president of the United States, with whom he had visited. (2)
-- 170 years ago - about Mar 5, 1840


1 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html
2 - BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith


--Like the Old Testament? Check out http://old-testament.blogspot.com/

Today in Mormon History - Mar 04

Today in Mormon History ...

The U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee considered the Mormons' petition for redress and ruled that they should pursue their case in the courts of Missouri. (1)
-- 170 years ago - (Wed) Mar 4, 1840

Brigham Young: "it floods my heart with sorrow to see so many Elders of Israel who wish everybody to come to their standard and be measured by their measure. Every man must be just so long, to fit their iron bedstead, or be cut off to the right length." Brigham Young says, when visiting with his counselors and three apostles: "I did not say to [Orson Pratt] that God would increase to all Eternity. But I said that the moment that we say that God knows all things Comprehends all things and has a fulness of all that He ever will obtain that moment Eternity ceases you put bounds to Eternity & space & matter and you make an end and stoping place to it.... No man can understand the things of Eternity And Brother Pratt and all men should let the matter of the gods alone I do not understand these things Neither does any man in the flesh and we should let them alone." (2)
-- 150 years ago - Mar 4, 1860

Phil Tuckett is first Mormon to receive national "Emmy" from National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (sports cinematography, 1978-79 season). Lynda Day George is first LDS nominee for Emmy (1973), followed by nominees Robert Brunner (1978) and Merlin Olsen (1979, 1981, 1983). Other LDS Emmy winners include: Phil Tucket again (1979-80, 1981-82, 1982-83 seasons), Tony Geary (lead actor, daytime drama, (1981-82). LDS church receives Emmy (public service spot, 1987, 1988, 1993), M. Curtis Price for sound-mixing (1988), Kurt Bestor and Sam Cardon for their music scoring of 1988 Winter Olympics telecast. Raised as both a Jew and a Mormon in Salt Lake City, Roseanne Barr Arnold receives Emmy (best actress in comedy series, 1993). A favorite with Salt Lake City's younger audiences during her early days of stand-up, Roseanne Barr receives American Comedy Awards (Funniest Female Performer, (1988, 1989), People's Choice Awards (Favorite Actress in New Program, 1989; Favorite Fe
male Entertainer, 1990). Above list excludes regional Emmys and similar awards of local, state, or regional status. (2)
-- 30 years ago - Mar 4, 1980


1 - Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm
2 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html


--Like the Old Testament? Check out http://old-testament.blogspot.com/

Today in Mormon History - Mar 03

Today in Mormon History ...

The leaders of the Presbyterian Church in Palmyra meet and and, decide "that the Reverend A. E. Campbell and H. Jessup be a committee to visit Hiram Smith, Lucy Smith, and Samuel Harrison Smith and report at the next meeting of session." (1)
-- 180 years ago - Mar 3, 1830

In England William Clayton writes, "Went to see Brother Burgess wife and child. She has been disobedient. She seems very penitent. She has a cow dung plaster on her breast. We promised her in the name of the Lord that if she felt to repent and begin to live faithful she should receive a blessing. . . . Sarah Crooks bath my forehead with rum and gave me some mint drops." (1)
-- 170 years ago - Mar 3, 1840

Death of Howard W. Hunter, whose presidency is briefest in Mormon history-less than nine months. This is half of previously shortest tenure served by any LDS president: Harold B. Lee's seventeen months and nineteen days. (1)
-- 15 years ago - Mar 3, 1995


1 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html


--Like the Old Testament? Check out http://old-testament.blogspot.com/

Today in Mormon History - Mar 02

Today in Mormon History ...

Brigham Young's office journal records: "Howard Egan called upon me in relation to Bro[ther] H. S. Sherman discontinuing his services on the western line with him. I told him Bro[ther] Shermans state of health required him to discontinue traveling that he might bestow more attention upon himself and use remedies to entirely cure himself of the piles and tumor he was afflicted with. Howard then left. I told Bro[ther] S. & S. Sherman yesterday that I had been obliged to use a syringe since my sickness in Nauvoo, and now I could not live months without using it; I believe the the [sic] frequent use of it has considerably benefitted my health as I am much better now than I have been for years. I enjoy my food much better that [sic] I used years ago. The use of the syringe strengthens my bowels I am persuaded that in nine cases out of ten the bowels become deranged before the stomach does, and the bowels being deranged soon affect the stomach. I charge the syringe frequently with
composition sometimes I mix consecrated oil with it. I have sent for some good olive oil if it can be procured; for the oil the merchants import here is so unpleasant I cannot take it. Another good remedy for the piles is the grease that is attacked to the pizzle [sic] of pig that fat lying near the anus of the animal, this fat is particularly efficacious in the cure of the piles. I gave this remedy with the injections; or rather told my clerk David A. Calder to use these remedies, and he has not been sick since (48) and he was frequently away a few days sick with biliousness and piles. I have my own composition powder prepared it consist of Kyan [sic] pepper, ground ginger, cloves, barberry &c. I will here remark for the benefit of those who may read, that I feel it the duty of all men to take care of their health and use such medicinal remedies as are known to be good, I do not ask the Lord to do for me what I would not do for myself" (1)
-- 150 years ago - Mar 2, 1860

introduction of "Consolidated Meeting Schedule" of three-hours on Sundays. This eliminates week-day meetings of auxiliaries, as well as traditional twice daily Sunday meetings. This eases transportation and weekly scheduling but erodes fellowshipping opportunities and diminishes tightly knit social environment of LDS Wards. By 1996, this has severely diminished emotional ties of North American Mormon youth to LDS community, eroding what is called "Mormon ethnic identity." Most dramatic manifestation of this trend is fact that for first time in Mormon history, young women cease LDS participation at greater percentages than young men (according to general authority Jack H. Goaslind's statement in BYU Daily Universe, 31 Aug 1992). Likewise, despite absolute increase in missionary numbers, proportion of Mormon males who accept full time missions has decreased significantly in North America. (1)
-- 30 years ago - Mar 2, 1980

The WAYNE SENTINEL reports: "More than two hundred souls have become hopeful subjects of divine grace in Palmyra, Macedon, Manchester, Phelps, Lyons, and Ontario since the late revival commenced. This is a powerful work; it is among old and young, but mostly among young people.... The cry is yet from various parts, 'come over and help us.' There are large and attentive congregations in every part, who hear as for their lives." (1)
-- 185 years ago - Mar 2, 1825


1 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html


--Like the Old Testament? Check out http://old-testament.blogspot.com/

Today in Mormon History - Mar 01

Today in Mormon History ...

Mark Hofmann, student at Utah State University, writes: "Today I just found out the story of Grandpa's and Grandma's wedding." His grandfather, William Gailey Sears had taken his grandmother, Alethia Call as a post-manifesto, plural wife on February 21, 1906. The wedding was performed by stake president Joseph Summerhays with permission from President Joseph F. Smith. (1)
-- 30 years ago - Mar 1, 1980

Lewis Dana of the Oneida tribe is admitted to full membership in the Council of Fifty. A group of eight men are chosen "to fill Josephs measures originally adopted by this Council by going West to seek out a location and a home . . . the Council finally agreed to send out a company with Brother Dana . . . These brethren are expected to start immediately after Conference and proceed from tribe to tribe, to unite the Lamanites and find a home for the saints." John D. Lee is also among those admitted to the Council of Fifty on this day (1)
-- 165 years ago - Mar 1, 1845

Alex Campbell tells of a man reporting a vision where he saw the Savior at the tree tops and gave him forgiveness. (2)
-- 190 years ago - Mar 1, 1820


1 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html
2 - Tidd, N. R., "Mormon Chronology," http://bit.ly/14Qt5F


Like the Old Testament? Check out http://old-testament.blogspot.com/