Today in Mormon History - Jan 31

At the funeral of Charles Little, a child who had drowned the day before, Brigham Young says, "The question has often been asked how is it with little children? Will they grow or not after death? Joseph once said they would, and then he said they would not. He never had any revelation upon the subject, and I have no doctrine to give upon the subject. . . . Some have thought that it was ordained that children should die. But this is not true doctrine. It is not ordained of God that children should die, but it is the will of God that all children should live and grow up to manhood and fill up the measure of their days, . . ." (1)
-- 150 years ago today - Jan 31, 1861

[Joseph Smith] Repeated temple dedication ceremonies for those who could not be seated on 27 March, Kirtland. (2)
-- 175 years ago today - Jan 31, 1836

[President Wilford Woodruff Journal] Jan 31 1891 We have a hard snow storm which is much needed. I spent the day at the farm. We are passing through a great financial Difficulty. The Lord ownly Can help us out of it. I spent the day at the farm. (3)
-- 120 years ago today - Jan 31, 1891

1 - This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html
2 - Jessee, Dean, Esplin, Ronald and Bushman, Richard Lyman (editors), The Joseph Smith Papers: Journals, Vol. 1: 1832-1839, Chronology for the Years 1832-1839
3 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993

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Today in Mormon History - Jan 30

Brigham Young's office journal records: "Pres. Joseph Young related a dream he had to his brother the President as follows. He saw the first Presidency dealing out land and sections of land to the Brethren. In his dream he frequently saw the President with a Compass and chain in his hand, and sometimes working with it. Br. Joseph remarked he was sure he had dreamed this dream as often as one hundred times. Some of the brethren remarked it looked as if our inheritances would be dealt out to us in Jackson County. The President also related a dream In his dream he saw the children singing and dancing unusually merry, and the people also dancing and merry making with extraordinary energy." (1)
-- 150 years ago today - Jan 30, 1861

[Apostle Abraham H. Cannon Journal] ZCMI deducted tithing before paying wages to employees. (2)
-- 120 years ago today - Jan. 30th, 1891

At a meeting held at Nauvoo, Ill., Joseph Smith was elected sole Trustee for the Church, to hold the office during life, his "successors to be the First Presidency" of the Church. (3)
-- 170 years ago today - Jan 30, 1841 (Saturday)

1 - This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html
2 - Abraham H. Cannon Journal Excerpts
3 - Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology

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Today in Mormon History - Jan 29

Twelve Apostles meet and "voted to forgive each other's trespasses." (1)
-- 120 years ago today - Jan 29, 1891

[Joseph Smith] Administered and received ritual washing of feet with priesthood leaders in temple, Kirtland. (2)
-- 175 years ago today - Jan 29, 1836

Oliver to Joseph: 25 miles from Shawnees on south side of Kansas River at its mouth; has not heard from Joseph since he and other missionaries left in fall 1830; deep snow; met with chief and 18-20 council members; chief said "they were very glad for what I their Brother had told them and they had recived it in their hearts &c--But how the matter will go with this tribe to me is uncirtain."

-- (3)
-- 180 years ago today - Jan 29, 1831

1 - This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html
2 - Jessee, Dean, Esplin, Ronald and Bushman, Richard Lyman (editors), The Joseph Smith Papers: Journals, Vol. 1: 1832-1839, Chronology for the Years 1832-1839
3 - Kenny, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml

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Today in Mormon History - Jan 28

[Same-Sex Marriage] North America West Area Presidency (Loren C. Dunn, President) sends a letter to be read in all California wards, urging members to express their support for legislation against recognition of same-sex marriages being considered in the state. (1)
-- 15 years ago today - Jan 28, 1996

As Joseph Smith is organizing the Twelve Apostles in the assembly room of the Kirtland temple "Pres[ident] Sylvester Smith saw a pillar of fire rest down and abide upon the heads of the quorem . . ." After Sidney Rigdon gives a hosanna shout "Eld[er] Roger Orton saw a mighty Angel riding upon a horse of fire with a flaming sword in his hand followed by five others encircle the house and protect the Saints . . . Pres[ident] William Smith, one of the Twelve, saw the heavens op[e]ned and the Lord's host protecting the Lord's anointed. Pres[ident] Z[ebedee] Coltrin, one of the seven [presidents of the Seventy], saw the Saviour extended before him as upon the cross and crowned with a glory upon his head above the brightness of the sun." (2)
-- 175 years ago today - Jan 28, 1836

Joseph, Emma, Sidney, and Edward Partridge start for Kirtland "T<o>wards the latter part of January." (3)
-- 180 years ago today - 1831 Late January

1 - Crapo, Richley, Chronology Of Mormon / LDS Involvement In Same-Sex Marriage Politics http://www.mormonsocialscience.org/?q=node/59
2 - This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html
3 - Kenny, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml

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Today in Mormon History - Jan 27

[Catholic Church in Utah] The vicariate developed into the Diocese of Salt Lake City on 27 January 1891 and still included seven counties in eastern Nevada. The new diocese numbered 8,000 in population and included fifteen churches cared for by fourteen priests. (1)
-- 120 years ago today - Jan 27, 1891

[Joseph Smith Diary] Wednesday [27 January 1836] Attended school as usual and other matters which came before me to attend to. (2)
-- 175 years ago today - Jan 27, 1836

On 24 January, Rigdon leaves Fayette by stage, while "The prophet Spouse, and while 'holy family' (as they style themselves) will follow Rigdon, so soon as their deluded or hypocritical followers shall be able to dispose of what little real property they possess in this region: one farm (Whitmar's) was sold a few days ago for $2,300.

-- (3)
-- 180 years ago today - Jan 27, 1831

1 - Utah History Encyclopedia: Catholic Church in Utah, http://www.media.utah.edu/UHE/c/CATHOLIC.html
2 - Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1835-36
3 - Kenny, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml

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Today in Mormon History - Jan 26

Joshua Seixas, former Hebrew teacher of Lorenzo Snow, begins instructing Joseph Smith and his colleagues of the "Hebrew School" in the Kirtland Temple, to enable them to translate biblical Hebrew texts. He gives two lectures per day, from 10:00 to 11:00 AM. and from 2:00 to 3:00 PM five days per week. The class has about forty students but more are added as the class continues. By mid-February, Seixas is teaching four separate classes. Joseph Smith says, "His introduction pleased me much. I think he will be a help to the class in learning the Hebrew." (1)
-- 175 years ago today - Jan 26, 1836
[Capital Punishment] On January 26, 1996, the last person to be executed by firing squad in the United States took place in Utah. (2)
-- 15 years ago today - Jan 26, 1996
[President Wilford Woodruff Journal] 26 I went to the Garde & Signed 51 Recommends. I received 23 Letters. (3)
-- 120 years ago today - Jan 26, 1891

1 - This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html
2 - Utah History Encyclopedia: Capital Punishment, http://www.media.utah.edu/UHE/c/CAPITOLPUN.html
3 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993

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Today in Mormon History - Jan 25

[Utah] Church News Section photograph of LDS basketball team in Germany giving "Sieg Heil: salute of Nazi Party. (1)
-- 75 years ago today - Jan 25,1936

Church Section article "If Christ Came To Germany," with photographs of "prisoners in a German concentration camp." (2)
-- 70 years ago today - Jan 25, 1941

[Apostle Anthony W. Ivins Diary] This evening I called upon Nora Cowley. She says she was married in Canada by a Patriarch. He was sick in bed & not expected to live. Bro. Cowley took her to the house and went in, leaving her on the outside, & told the wife of the sick man he wished a private interview with her husband. The woman went out & Nora entered. The Patriarch was propped up in his bed with bandages around his head. He spoke in a voice so low that she could not hear a word he said. Bro. Cowley told her when to say yes. After he finished she asked Bro. Cowley if that was all. He said, yes. She thought it a singular way to get married. Later Bro. C. warned her to carefully not violate the covenants she had entered into. She said she had made no covenants and called attention to the fact that she did not hear a word of what he said - the Patriarch. [191] Suggested to me by State Department that Mormons in Mexico take no side in revolution. Defend homes if necessary. Dia
z government cannot last much longer. (3)
-- 100 years ago today - Jan. 25th, 1911

1 - 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
2 - This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html
3 - Diary Excerpts of Anthony W. Ivins

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Today in Mormon History - Jan 24

New York Times reports conversion to LDS church of Eldridge Cleaver, former Black Panther radical of 1960s. He is first nationally prominent African-American to convert to Mormonism. In 1995 he publicly reaffirms his faith in Mormonism, although he no longer actively attends LDS services. (1)
-- 30 years ago today - Jan 24, 1981

[1st Presidency Changes] Joseph Smith, Jr. Hyrum Smith (Assistant President) Sidney Rigdon (never ordained an apostle) William Law (never ordained an apostle) John Smith (never ordained an apostle, Assistant Counselor) Hyrum Smith called as Assistant President of the Church; William Law replaces Hyrum Smith as Second Counselor (2)
-- 170 years ago today - Jan 24, 1841 - 8 April 1841

[John Nuttle Diary] Bp T W Smith called on me this A. M. eat breakfast he starts east tomorrow (3)
-- 130 years ago today - Monday Jan 24, 1881

1 - This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html
2 - Wikipedia, First Presidency (LDS Church), http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_Presidency_(LDS_Church)#Chronology_of_the_First_Presidency
3 - Diary Excerpts of L. John Nuttall, http://www.signaturebookslibrary.org/journals/nuttall.htm

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Today in Mormon History - Jan 23

[Same-Sex Marriage] The Hawaii Supreme Court rejects the churchs appeal of the circuit courts denial of the churchs petition to become a party to the Baehr case, and the court reiterates the reasons given by the circuit court as valid. (1)
-- 15 years ago - Jan 23, 1996

School of the Prophets established [per Zebedee Coltrin]. (2)
-- 180 years ago - Jan 23, 1831

[Joseph Smith Diary] Saturday, 23rd Attended at the school room as usual. We came together filled with the spirit as on the past evening and did not fe[e]l like studying, but commenced conversing upon heavenly things. The day was spent agre[e]ably and profitably. Father /Elder/ Alvah Beeman had been tempted to doubt the things which we rec[eive]d on Saturday evening. He made an humble confession and asked forgiveness of the school whi[c]h was joyfully given and he said he would try to resist Satan in [the] future. (3)
-- 175 years ago - Jan 23, 1836

1 - Crapo, Richley, Chronology Of Mormon / LDS Involvement In Same-Sex Marriage Politics http://www.mormonsocialscience.org/?q=node/59
2 - Tidd, N. R., "Mormon Chronology"
3 - Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1835-36

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Today in Mormon History - Jan 22

[Mark Hofmann] Third examination by Throckmorton and Flynn, joined by Al Lyter. Exam conducted at Utah State Crime Lab. (1)
-- 25 years ago - Jan 22, 1986

The Twelve Apostles, the presidency of the Seventy and others were blessed and anointed in the Lord's House, at Kirtland. (2)
-- 175 years ago - Jan 22, 1836 (Friday)

Lowell L. Bennion, director of the University of Utah Institute of Religion, organizes the women's chapter of Lambda Delta Sigma (from the Greek letters of "LDS"), a men's organization that had been recently established at the institute and that paralleled the fraternities on campus at the University of Utah. (3)
-- 75 years ago - Jan 22, 1936

1 - 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,
2 - Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology
3 - The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com

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Today in Mormon History - Jan 21

Book of Mormon first published in Liverpool, England for Brigham Young by J. Tompkins (4,050 copies). (1)
-- 170 years ago - Jan 21, 1841

[D and C] Doctrine and Covenants 137: A vision given to Joseph Smith the Prophet, in the temple at Kirtland, Ohio, January 21, 1836. HC 2: 380-381. The occasion was the administration of the ordinances of the endowment as far as they had then been revealed.
1-6, The Prophet sees his brother Alvin in the celestial kingdom; 7-9, The doctrine of salvation for the dead is revealed; 10, All children are saved in the celestial kingdom. (2)
-- 175 years ago - Jan 21, 1836

Zebedee Coltrin: Ordained elder 21 January 1831 by John Whitmer. (3)
-- 180 years ago - Jan 21, 1831

1 - Sherry Baker: Mormon Media History Timeline: 1827-2007, http://byustudies.byu.edu/showTitle.aspx?title=7984
2 - Doctrine and Covenants
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 - Jan 20

Joseph Smith performs a wedding attended by "The Presidency and their companions in the first Seats, the Twelve Apostles in the second, the 70 in the third and the remainder of the congregation seated with their companions." After the ceremony "Eld[e]r O[rson] Hyde, Eld[e]r L[uke] Johnson, and Eld[e]r W[arren] Parrish who served on the occasion then presented the Presidency with three Servers filled with glasses of wine to bless. It fell to my [Joseph Smith's] lot to attend to this duty, which I cheerfully discharged. It was then passed round in order, then the cake in the Same order. Suffise it to say our hearts were made glad, while partaking of the bounty of the earth which was presented until we had taken our fill." (1)
-- 175 years ago - Jan 20, 1836

The Tabernacle Choir participated in the inaugural festivities for President Ronald Reagan. (2)
-- 30 years ago - Jan 20, 1981

Geo. Reynolds was released from the Penitentiary, his term of imprisonment having expired. (3)
-- 130 years ago - Jan 20, 1881 (Thursday)

1 - This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html
2 - Church News: Historical Chronology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, http://www.ldschurchnews.com/articles/58765/Historical-chronology-of-The-Church-of-Jesus-Christ-of-Latter-day-Saints.html
3 - Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology

Today in Mormon History - Jan 19

[The Parallel Joseph, http:
www.boap.org/LDS/Parallel/] Joseph Smith Sermon 170 years ago - 19Jan41
-- 5

[Polygamy] 2nd Wilford Woodruff revelation on polygamy
Wilford Woodruff submitted a revelation to church president John Taylor and the Twelve promising the Apocalypse and God's interventions into the affairs of the saints. Woodruff was asked to draw up the list of enemies and to write the prayer of damnation , which he did, which contained 400 names of the enemies of the church. The First Presidency and Twelve met together for this reverse prayer in the temple and "we all performed the ordinance of washing our feet against Our Enemies And the Enemies of the Kingdom of God according to the Commandment of God unto us." (Susan Staker, "Waiting for World's End" p. XVII.) (2)
-- 130 years ago - Jan 19, 1881

A revelation is received by Joseph Smith ordering the church to build a temple in Nauvoo. Also, the order of baptism for the dead is laid out. The church is also excused from building the temple in Jackson County due to the persecution at that time. (D&C 124) (3)
-- 170 years ago - Jan 19, 1841

1 - years ago - 19Jan41 18410119
2 - Tungate, Mel, Mormon Polygamy, http://www.tungate.com/polygamy.htm
3 - Wikipedia, Joseph Smith Chronology, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_Joseph_Smith,_Jr.

Today in Mormon History - Jan 18

Brigham Young and Willard Richards "commenced reading the Book of Mormon, and preparing an index to the English edition." (1)
-- 170 years ago - Jan 18, 1841

[President Wilford Woodruff Journal] 18 Sunday I spent the day in the House reading. (2)
-- 120 years ago - Jan 18, 1891

The General Sunday School board announces the first major change in curriculum in more than a decade. The new studies are designed to give a well-rounded knowledge of the gospel to all members of the Church. (3)
-- 70 years ago - Jan 18, 1941

1 - This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html
2 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993
3 - The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com

Today in Mormon History - Jan 17

while the First Presidency, the Twelve, the Seventy, and the Councilors of Kirtland and Zion are gathered together in conference, "the gift of tongues came on us also, like the rushing of a mighty wind". Five days later the gift of tongues again comes to this group "in mighty power". (1)
-- 175 years ago - Jan 17, 1836

The Utah Southern Railway Company was organized, with Wm. Jennings as president. (2)
-- 140 years ago - Jan 17, 1871 (Tuesday)

The Louisville Stake, the first stake in Kentucky, is organized, with Henry H. Griffith as president. (3)
-- 40 years ago - Jan 17, 1971

1 - This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html
2 - Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology
3 - The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com

Today in Mormon History - Jan 16

[Joseph Smith] Upon complaints by the Quorum of Twelve Apostles, the First Presidency formally apologizes for not showing them due respect. (1)
-- 175 years ago - Jan 16, 1836

Apostle Wilford Woodruff tells conference of Young Men's Mutual Improvement Association in Ogden, Utah that "there were thousands of young men living among this people now that would live to see the Savior come to the earth." He adds that they will "be changed to immortality in the twinkle of an eye without tasting death." (2)
-- 130 years ago - Jan 16, 1881

Nauvoo, Illinois. Joseph Smith taught that men have power to resist the devil; he explained the consequences of murder; and he spoke on Adam, the priesthood, and several parables from the New Testament. (3)
-- 170 years ago - Jan 16, 1841

1 - 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"
2 - 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 - Jan 15

[Joseph Smith] Further organizing the priesthood, presidents of each priesthood quorum are called for the Kirtland Stake of Zion, as is a president of the Kirtland Temple, now nearing completion. (1)
-- 175 years ago - Jan 15, 1836

[U.S. Religious History] Alabama Chief Justice Roy Moore was sworn into office, pledging that "God's law will be publicly acknowledged in our court." (2)
-- 10 years ago - Jan 15, 2001

John Edward Page: Reproved by First Presidency for delaying mission to Jerusalem 15 January 1841. (3)
-- 170 years ago - Jan 15, 1841

1 - Wikipedia, Joseph Smith Chronology, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_Joseph_Smith,_Jr.
2 - Cline, Austin, History of American Religion: Timeline
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 - Jan 14

Brigham Young's office journal records: "Bp Edward E. Hunter asked the President if he did not think our dancing parties were Kept open too late. The President said he should say no more about it. He formerly had wished the Bps to close early and he had always left the dances early by way of example of himself but he did know that a Bp knew a word about it." (1)
-- 150 years ago - Jan 14, 1861

Address given at LDS Institute of Religion; Joseph Fielding Smith; Salt Lake City, Utah; January 14, 1961.
Why did Adam come here? Not subject to death when he was placed upon the earth, there had to come a change in his body through the partaking of this element---whatever you want to call it, fruit---that brought blood into his body; and blood became the life of the body instead of spirit. And blood has in it the seeds of death, some mortal element. Mortality was created through the eating of the forbidden fruit, if you want to call it forbidden, but I think the Lord has made it clear that it was not forbidden. He merely said to Adam, if you want to stay here this is the situation. If so, don't eat it. (2)
-- 50 years ago - Jan 14, 1961

[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] I called at the Gardo House where I met Pres[iden]ts Woodruff and Smith. They congratulated me very heartily on the success that had attended my trip . . . (Says Thatcher jealous of success on trip.) (3)
-- 120 years ago - Jan 14, 1891

1 - This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html
2 - Quotations Dealing with the Relationship of Our First Earthy Parents to Our Heavenly Parents (1830-1978)
3 - Diary Excerpts of Heber J. Grant,

Today in Mormon History - Jan 13

Deseret Club is organized at UCLA as church's first social organization for LDS college students outside Utah. Current organization is LDS Students association (LDSSA) for students at every non-church college and university. (1)
-- 80 years ago - Jan 13, 1931

[Hinckley] Named one of the most admired men in the world for the second consecutive year by an annual survey of Americans - included on the list were Pope John Paul II, President Bill Clinton, Gen. Colin Powell and President-elect George W. Bush (2)
-- 10 years ago - Jan 13, 2001

[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] [Written at Manassa, March 4, 1891] I should have written a lot for my Journal, but my machine is a little out of order. I over a month behind with my Journal and regret that the machine is not all right so I could partially catch up. I shall save the letters written today and make a copy in my letter book before they are mailed. (3)
-- 120 years ago - January 13th, 1891

1 - This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html
2 - LDS Newsroom, Time line of Significant Events as President, http://newsroom.lds.org/ldsnewsroom/eng/news-releases-stories/time-line-of-significant-events-as-president
3 - Diary Excerpts of Heber J. Grant,

Today in Mormon History - Jan 12

[Joseph Smith Sermon] All Sins are not Vice
Resurrection - Eternal Judgement - Murders Cannot be Redeemed in this Life (1)
-- 170 years ago - 12Jan41

Between this date and the 17th fifteen lives were lost through snowslides in Little Cottonwood and American Fork canyons; $60,000 worth of property was also destroyed. (2)
-- 130 years ago - Jan 12, 1881 (Wednesday)

Dispatched from New York in accordance with a now-unknown revelation, John Whitmer arrives in Kirtland with the newly revealed book of Moses and other revelations designating Kirtland as the eastern edge of the land of Zion--which extends to the Pacific Ocean--and directing the Saints not to sell their lands, but rather to purchase as much as they can. (3)
-- 180 years ago - 1831 January [12-17]

1 - The Parallel Joseph, http://www.boap.org/LDS/Parallel/
2 - Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology
3 - Kenny, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml

Today in Mormon History - Jan 11

[Abraham H. Cannon Journal] ". . it (letter from Sarah) tells me also of my brother Frank's disgraceful conduct which made me feel very sorry for him. Sarah does not know about all his actions but from all reports he must have committed some terrible crime.' (1)
-- 130 years ago - Jan 11, 1881

Eight cut off from the Church [per Orson Pratt]. (2)
-- 180 years ago - Jan 11, 1831

The Texas Mission is organized. (3)
-- 80 years ago - Jan 11, 1931

1 - Abraham H. Cannon Journal Excerpts
2 - Tidd, N. R., "Mormon Chronology"
3 - The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com

Today in Mormon History - Jan 10

Fawn McKay Brodie, niece of David O. McKay and author of NO MAN KNOWS MY HISTORY (for which she was excommunicated) dies of cancer in Santa Monica, California at age 65. During her last months she refuses pain medication fearing that it will interfere with her final work - a biography of Richard Nixon. She does, however, ask for and receive a blessing from her active, LDS brother. This later leads to the false rumor that she returned to the Church at the end. At the time she states, "any exaggeration about my requests for a blessing meaning that I was asking to be taken back into the Church at that moment I strictly repudiate and would for all time." Her remains are cremated and the ashes scattered to the wind over the Pacific Palisades area she loved and protected. (1)
-- 30 years ago - Jan 10, 1981

John Corrill (a Campbellite) joins Church. (2)
-- 180 years ago - Jan 10, 1831

Wilber Denton and Jenkins Salisbury in the morning, Samuel Smith and Don Carlos Smith in the afternoon. "They all did well considering their youth." Martin Harris baptizes three. (3)
-- 175 years ago - Jan 10, 1836

1 - This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html
2 - Tidd, N. R., "Mormon Chronology"
3 - Kenny, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml

Today in Mormon History - Jan 09

[Mark Hofmann] Terri Christensen delivers Steven Fred Christensen, Jr., by cesarean section. It would have been Steve's thirty-second birthday. (1)
-- 25 years ago - Jan 9, 1986

Zebedee Coltrin joins Church. (2)
-- 180 years ago - Jan 9, 1831

Attends feast at N. K. Whitney's with his parents and Emma. Large assembly. Joseph Sr. blesses several. Could this feast and that of the 7th be the same? (3)
-- 175 years ago - Jan 9, 1836

1 - 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,
2 - Tidd, N. R., "Mormon Chronology"
3 - Kenny, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml

Today in Mormon History - Jan 08

Brigham Young's Office Journal notes: "Bishop Edwd Hunter called in, The President remarked he had 41 Children living, Br Lewis enquired of him if he knew them all." (1)
-- 150 years ago - Jan 8, 1861

[Lucy Mack Smith] According to Lucy's date by 15 Jan. 1831 John Whitmer arrives at Kirtland to preside over the branch there. (2)
-- 180 years ago - Jan 8, 1831

[Joseph Smith] The First Presidency publishes a proclamation to the Saints scattered abroad, explaining and expressing gratitude for the Nauvoo charter. They say the advantage of the Nauvoo Legion is that "it will enable us to show our attachment to the state and nation, as a people, whenever the public service requires our aid, thus proving ourselves obedient to the paramount laws of the land, and ready at all times to sustain and execute them." The University of Nauvoo is also praised. The Presidency asks the Saints coming into Nauvoo from abroad to have patience with the imperfections of man. (See History of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (7 volumes) 4:267-73.) (3)
-- 170 years ago - Jan 8, 1841

1 - This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html
2 - Anderson, Lavina Fielding, Editor, Lucy's Book: A Critical Edition of Lucy Mack Smith's Family Memoir, 2001, Signature Books
3 - Conklin, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology

Today in Mormon History - Jan 07

[Mark Hofmann] Second examination in LDS historical department by Throckmorton and Flynn. About this time the FBI lab in Washington, D.C., reports that its tests had determined that the Harris 1830 letter was not a forgery. Neither, according to the FBI, was the 1829 printing contract for Book of Mormon. (1)
-- 25 years ago - 1986 7-20 Jan

Feast at Bishop N. K. Whitney's "after the order of the Son of God--the lame, the halt, and blind were invited, according to the instruction of the Saviour." Joseph Smith Sr. prays, gives N. K.'s parents patriarchal blessings. (2)
-- 175 years ago - Jan 7, 1836

[President Wilford Woodruff Journal] 7 I signed 33 Recommends. I received 15 Letters. I signed 6 pub letters. I met with the Bank Board. I met with the Presidency of the Webber Stake for a Donation of $5,000 for the Academy. We Donated that amount to the Academy. (3)
-- 120 years ago - Jan 7, 1891

1 - 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,
2 - Kenny, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml
3 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993

Today in Mormon History - Jan 06

Joshua Seixas, author of "Manual of Hebrew Grammar for the Use of Beginners" (1833, second edition 1834) and former Hebrew instructor of Lorenzo Snow, is "hired" for a term of seven weeks, to teach "forty scholars," beginning in about fifteen days. It is reported that he will "give us sufficient knowledge during this term to start us in reading and translating the language." He does not actually arrive in Kirtland until Jan 26. (1)
-- 175 years ago - Jan 6, 1836

John Singer was born in New York on 6 January 1931. He was a member of the Mormon Church who was later excommunicated for his fundamentalist beliefs, including the practice of polygamy. Singer gained public notoriety because of his stand against what he felt was the immorality of the school system. (2)
-- 80 years ago - Jan 6, 1931

Lucy Mack Smith interviewed at Waterloo, NY. (3)
-- 180 years ago - Jan 6, 1831

1 - This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html
2 - Utah History Encyclopedia: John Singer, http://www.media.utah.edu/UHE/s/SINGER%2CJOHN.html
3 - Tidd, N. R., "Mormon Chronology"

Today in Mormon History - Jan 05

Joseph Smith organizes the Nauvoo Lyceum where men could give presentations on theology "for the benefit of the Elders who are calculated to proclaim the Gospel to this Generation." He also announces a revelation against phrenology, text unavailable. (1)
-- 170 years ago - Jan 5, 1841

Joseph Smith writes in his diary: "Attended Hebrew School [and] divided them into classes. Had some debate with Elder Orson Pratt. He manifested a stub[b]ourn spirit, which I was much grieved at." The next day he writes, "Spent most of the fore noon in set[t]ling the unple[a]sant feelings that existed in the breast of ElderO Pratt. After much controversy, he confessed his fault and asked the forgiv[e]ness of the whol[e] school and was forgiven by all." (2)
-- 175 years ago - Jan 5, 1836

[D and C] Doctrine and Covenants 39: Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet to James Covill, at Fayette, New York, January 5, 1831. HC 1: 143-145. James Covill, who had been a Baptist minister for about forty years, covenanted with the Lord that he would obey any command that the Lord would give to him through Joseph the Prophet.
1-4, The saints have power to become the sons of God; 5-6, To receive the gospel is to receive Christ; 7-14, James Covill is commanded to be baptized and labor in the Lord's vineyard; 15-21, The Lord's servants are to preach the gospel before Second Coming; 22-24, Those who receive the gospel shall be gathered in time and in eternity. (3)
-- 180 years ago - Jan 5, 1831

1 - 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"
2 - This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html
3 - Doctrine and Covenants

Today in Mormon History - Jan 04

Joseph Smith and associates begin their first day of "Hebrew School." However they receive a message from the teacher they had hired, Doctor Piexotto, that he will not be able to give his first lecture for two days. The school votes to drop Piexotto and to hire a new teacher. Joshua Seixas is hired two days later for "the term of 7 weeks for $320.00" to teach 40 students. Joseph Smith writes of Seixas, "He is highly celebrated as a Hebrew Schollar and proposes to give us sufficient knowledge in the above term of time to read and translate the language." (1)
-- 175 years ago - Jan 4, 1836

The U.S. Postal Service releases a stamp honoring Utah's centennial; it is designed by McRay Magleby, the creative director of BYU's Publications and Graphics Department. (2)
-- 15 years ago - Jan 04, 1996

[President Wilford Woodruff Journal] 4 Sunday I spent the day reading. (3)
-- 120 years ago - Jan 4, 1891

1 - This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html
2 - The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com
3 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993

Today in Mormon History - Jan 03

William Smith and Marvel C. Davis were re-baptized into the LDS Church. The fact that both were re-admitted at the same time may possibly indicate some connection between their respective alienations from the Mormons. (1)
-- 175 years ago - (Sun) Jan 3, 1836

The six-year legal battle over the Church Plaza, located between the Salt Lake Temple and the Church Office Building in Salt Lake City, ended when the deadline passed for the ACLU and its plaintiffs to appeal a decision by the 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Denver, Colo. The appeals court on Oct. 3, 2005, upheld the sale of one block of Main Street to the Church. (2)
-- 5 years ago - Jan 3, 2006

[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] NYC took train for Hartford . . . I feel very thankful indeed that I have been so successful on this trip (sent telegram that I had secured another $50,000) plus 10,000 for self, 5,000 Dinwoody (3)
-- 120 years ago - Jan 3, 1891

1 - Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm
2 - Church News: Historical Chronology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, http://www.ldschurchnews.com/articles/58765/Historical-chronology-of-The-Church-of-Jesus-Christ-of-Latter-day-Saints.html
3 - Diary Excerpts of Heber J. Grant,

Today in Mormon History - Jan 02

The Kirtland High Council heard the case against William Smith, heard his confession and voted to allow him back into the Church. (1)
-- 175 years ago - (Sat) Jan 2, 1836

[D and C] Doctrine and Covenants 38: Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet, at Fayette, New York, January 2, 1831. HC 1: 140-143. The occasion was a conference of the Church.
1-6, Christ created all things; 7-8, He is in the midst of his saints, who shall soon see him; 9-12, All flesh is corrupted before him; 13-22, He has reserved a land of promise for his saints in time and in eternity; 23-27, The saints are commanded to be one and esteem each other as brethren; 28-29, Wars are predicted; 30-33, The saints are to be given power from on high and go forth among all nations; 34-42, The Church is commanded to care for the poor and needy, and to seek the riches of eternity. (2)
-- 180 years ago - Jan 2, 1831

[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] Hon. John T. Caine arrived from Washington (NY) this AM he had had a telegram from the Presidency asking that we call on the illustrated American and try and see what, could be done to get them to stop publishing the lies they were publishing about our people . . . Had a chat with As[sistan]t Editor Mr. Potter but we failed to get any satisfaction from Him. I became fully convinced that he did not care a cent how many lies he published about our people as long as the articles had the effect of increasing the circulation of his paper. He all but admitted that he had written the articles . . . (3)
-- 120 years ago - Jan 2, 1891

1 - Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm
2 - Doctrine and Covenants
3 - Diary Excerpts of Heber J. Grant,

Today in Mormon History - Jan 01

The Church's JOURNAL HISTORY records that there is "a division among the Twelve also among the Seventy and bickering and jealousies among the Elders and the official members of the Church." (1)
-- 175 years ago - Jan 1, 1836

Section 40, Place: Fayette, Seneca County, New York.
Historical Note: Upon Covell's rejection of the Lord's counsel (see section 39), section 40 was received by Joseph Smith. Section 40 is the last of the revelations in the Doctrine and Covenants that were received in New York before the Church membership moved west to Ohio.
Publication Note. Section 40 was first published as chapter 42 in the Book of Commandments in 1833. (2)
-- 180 years ago - January 1831 (after Jan 5, 1831)

Joseph Fielding Smith: Sealed to Edna Lambson 1 January 1871. Ten children: Hyrum Mack, Alvin Fielding, Alfred Jason, Edna Melissa, Albert Jessie, Robert, Emma, Zina, Ruth, and Martha. (3)
-- 140 years ago - Jan 1, 1871

1 - This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html
2 - Cook, Lyndon, Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants
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