135 years ago today - Aug 31, 1873

Wilford Woodruff Journel 7:152 (See JD 16:160-171): [Brigham Young] said that a Man who did not have but one wife in the Resurrection that woman will not be his but [be] taken from him & given to another But he may be saved in the kingdom of God but be single to all Eternity.

[Source: Discourses of Brigham Young]

155 years ago today - Late August 1857

"About the last of August, 1857, some ten days before the Mountain Meadows Massacre, the company of emigrants passed through Cedar City."

[Source: Mountain Meadows Massacre timeline, Will Bagley]

140 years ago today - Aug 31, 1872 (Saturday)

Indians make a raid on Spanish Fork, Utah Co., stealing horses.

[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

45 years ago today - Aug 31, 1967

George W. Romney states on national television that U.S. government leaders and senior military officers have "brainwashed" him and every other American about Vietnam War. First Mormon to seek U.S. presidency since 1844, Romney announces: "I no longer believe it was necessary for us to get involved in South Vietnam to stop Communist aggression." U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara immediately responds: "I don't think Governor Romney can recognize the truth when he sees it or hears it." Three decades later McNamara admits that at this time he privately regards Vietnam War as misguided and unwinnable, despite his public statements to the contrary as U.S. ground troops in Vietnam increase to half a million. Romney's use of word "brainwashed" is ridiculed nationally and he withdraws as presidential candidate in Feb. 1968.

[Source: Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower]

125 years ago today - Tuesday, Aug 30, 1887

[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Salt Lake City

I found all well at home. It is said the Deputies have been watching my house for several days.

[Source: Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith]

150 years ago today - Aug 30, 1862

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 30 I attended the Endowments. We gave Endowments to about 42 persons. D H Wells Sealed 20 Couple W Woodruff 10 Couple. I went to President Youngs office & with him to the theater. I went to the Court House & paid my taxes mostly Cash $42.90 cts. I then met with the Doctors on Examination & spent the Evening at Presidet Youngs Office.

[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

80 years ago today - Aug 30, 1932

B. H. Roberts, senior Seventy's president and assistant church historian, writes complaint about censorship. Heber J. Grant requires him to remove from forthcoming volume of HISTORY OF THE CHURCH the statement of Brigham Young that Seventies are ordained apostles. "I desire, however, to take this occasion of disclaiming any responsibility for the mutilating of that very important part of President Young's Manuscript," Roberts writes, "and also to say, that while you had the physical power or eliminating that passage from the History, I do not believe you had any moral right to do so."

[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]

155 years ago today - Aug 30, 1857

With Johnston's army approaching Utah to install federally appointed territorial officials Heber C. Kimball preaches: "You ladies, too, will certainly have to do your part, or back out. I told you last Sunday to arm yourselves; and if you cannot do it any other way, sell some of your fine bonnets, fine dresses, and buy yourselves a good dirk, a pistol, or some other instrument of war. Arm your boys and arm yourselves universally, and that, too, with the weapons of war; for we may be brought to the test, to see if we will stand up to the line. . . . Can you live your religion, except you do as you are told? I have said, again and again, that if we live our religion, and do as we are. told, those men will never come over those mountains; for we shall slay the poor devils before they get there. I do not know of any religion, except doing as I am told . . . I have acknowledged myself as one of the people; and now I say, we will take our own name, and we will not be false-named any more. We are the Kingdom of God; we are STATE or DESERET; and we will have you, brother Brigham, as our Governor just so long as you live. We will not have any other Governor."

[Source: Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower]

160 years ago today - Aug 29, 1852 (Afternoon)

[Brigham Young Discourse] While the sacrament is passing, I will take the liberty of making a few remarks. Some truth has been referred to here, from the stand, with regard to the congregation. ....      You Elders of Israel, do you know whether these doctrines were borne off by you and others triumphantly? They have been successful among every people, nation, and kindred, and tongue, wherever they have been proclaimed. These doctrines are beyond the power of controversy and doubt; no caviller could confute or present the least argument which would prove successful in overthrowing the principles taught by the Elders of Israel. Brother Joseph introduced a great many new doctrines. ....   You heard brother Pratt state, this morning, that a revelation would be read this afternoon, which was given previous to Joseph's death. It contains a doctrine a small portion of the world is opposed to; but I can deliver a prophecy upon it. Though that doctrine has not been practised by the Elders, this people have believed in it for years. The original copy of this revelation was burnt up. William Clayton was the man who wrote it from the mouth of the Prophet. In the meantime, it was in Bishop Whitney's possession. He wished the privilege to copy it, which brother Joseph granted. Sister Emma burnt the original. The reason I mention this is because that the people who did know of the revelation suppose it is not now in existence. The revelations will be read to you. The principle spoken upon by brother Pratt, this morning, we believe in. and I tell you'"for I know it'"it will sail over and ride triumphantly above all the prejudice and priestcraft of the day; it will be fostered and believed in by the more intelligent portion of the world as one of the best doctrines ever proclaimed to any people. Your hearts need not beat; you need not think that a mob is coming here to tread upon the sacred liberty which the Constitution of our country guarantees unto us, for it will not be. The world have known, long ago, even in brother Joseph's days, that he had more wives than one. One of the Senators in Congress knew it very well. Did he oppose it? No, but he has been our friend all the day long, especially upon that subject. He said pointedly to his friends, '"If the United States do not adopt that very method'"let them continue as they now are'"pursue the precise course they are now pursuing, and it will come to this'"that their generations will not live until they are 30 years old. They are going to destruction; disease is spreading so fast among the inhabitants of the United States, that they are born rotten with it, and in a few years they are gone.'" Said he, '"Joseph has introduced the best plan for restoring and establishing strength and long life among men, of any man on earth; and the Mormons are a very good and virtuous people.'" Many others are of the same mind, they are not ignorant of what we are doing in our social capacity. They have cried out, '"Proclaim it.'" But it would not do, a few years ago; everything must come in its time, as there is a time to all things. I am now ready to proclaim it. This revelation has been in my possession many years; and who has known it? None but those who should know it. I keep a patent lock on my desk, and there does not anything leak out that should not. It pleases me a little to think how anxious this people are for new revelation. ...  I leave these remarks with you, and we will now have the revelation read. (Elder Thomas Bullock then read the revelation [D&C 132]. [Journal of Discourses. Liverpool, England, 1853-86. 6:277-283; Deseret News Extra. 9/14/52, 22-26]

[Source: The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009)]

160 years ago today - Aug 29, 1852

First public announcement of previously denied practice of plural marriage. Contemporary reports show this causes extensive disaffection among British Mormons.

[Source: Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower]

170 years ago today - Aug 29, 1842

Joseph Smith preaches: " Let the Twelve send all who will support the character of the Prophet, the Lord's anointed, and if all who go will support my character, I prophecy in the name of the Lord Jesus, whose servant I am, that you will prosper in your missions. I have the whole plan of the kingdom before me, and no other person has. And as to all that Orson Pratt, Sidney Rigdon, or George W. Robinson can do to prevent me, I can kick them off my heels, as many as you can name, I know what will become of them." Joseph writes in his journal, "I concluded my remarks by saying I have the best of feelings towards my brethren, since this last trouble began, but to the Apostates and enemies, I will give a lashing every opportunity and I will curse them."

[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]

120 years ago today - Aug 29, 1892

I wrote the following letter to Ass[istan]t US Attorney John M. Zane Panguitch 8/29/[18]92

["]My Dear Sir: I desire to draw your attention to the cases of two of my good Republican friends whom I understand are to be arraigned in the 2nd district court. B[isho]p Andrew P. Schow of Escalante [Utah] I believe is an innocent man of the charge against him and I should regret very much to see him taken away from his ward this fall where he would be an influential worker in the Republican cause at the supreme moment. The other case is that of Seth Alvin Johnson as I understand, charged with adultery. His transgression came about in this way as I understand; he had been engaged to the young lady for years with the confident hope that they would someday be allowed to marry, but the Manifesto of Pres[ident] [Wilford] Woodruff put an end to their hopes and they yielded to the tempter and sinned so grievously. What ever mercy you can extend to him under the circumstances without violating your official trust will be appreciated by me as a personal favor.

He is a live Republican worker and is needed by our party in Garfield Co[unty]. B[isho]p Schow s case I believe is all spite work perhaps by someone who had been dealt with by him for his church fellowship.["] [Francis M. Lyman, Diary]

[Source: Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1893]

170 years ago today - Aug 29, 1842

Joseph Smith preaches: " Let the Twelve send all who will support the character of the Prophet, the Lord's anointed, and if all who go will support my character, I prophecy in the name of the Lord Jesus, whose servant I am, that you will prosper in your missions. I have the whole plan of the kingdom before me, and no other person has. And as to all that Orson Pratt, Sidney Rigdon, or George W. Robinson can do to prevent me, I can kick them off my heels, as many as you can name, I know what will become of them." Joseph writes in his journal, "I concluded my remarks by saying I have the best of feelings towards my brethren, since this last trouble began, but to the Apostates and enemies, I will give a lashing every opportunity and I will curse them."

[Source: Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower]

180 years ago today - Aug 29, 1832

Revelation, 29 August 1832 [D&C 99]

Revelation given Hiram Portage County August 29. 1832 Behold thus saith the Lord unto you my servant John (Murdock) thou art called to go unto the eastern countries from house to house and from Village to Village and from City to City to proclaim mine everlasting gospel unto the inhabitants thereof in the midst of persecution and wickedness and whosoever receiveth you receiveth me and you shall have power to declare my word in the demmonstration of my Holy Spirit and whoso receiveth you as a little child receiveth my kingdom and blessed are they for they shall obtain mercy and whoso rejecteth you shall be rejected of my father and his house and you shall cleanse your feet in the secret places by the way for a testimony against them. And behold, <and> Lo I come quickly to Judgement to convin[c]e all of their ungodly deeds which they have committed against me as it is written of me in the volume of the Book. And now verily I say unto you that it is not expedient that you should go untill your children are provided <for> and kindly sent up unto the bishop in Zion and after a few years if thou desirest of me thou mayest go up also unto the goodly land to possess thine inheritanc[e] otherwise thou shalt continue proclaiming my Gospel until thou be taken Amen. [p. 148]

[Source: Book of Commandments and Revelations (Revelation Book 1) http://bit.ly/manuscript-revelations]

110 years ago today - Aug 28, 1902; Thursday

Meeting of First Presidency and Apostles. ...

Bro[ther]. [Matthias F.] Cowley reported attendance at Juarez [Mexico] Stake Conference. He set apart Helaman Pratt as first counselor to Pres[iden]t. [Anthony W.] Ivins, and Guy Wilson as his second counselor, and ordained Miles Romney a Patriarch. Bro[ther]. Ammon Tenney was present and represented the work being done among the Indians. They now have a membership of 250, consisting of eight small branches.

[Source: First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]

165 years ago today - Aug 28, 1847

William Smith: Announced revelation 28 Aug. 1847 that he was president of new church awaiting Joseph Smith III's maturity

[Source: 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, http://amzn.to/origins-power]

25 years ago today - Aug 28, 1987

[Capital Punishment] Lethal injection was introduced in Utah with the death of Pierre Dale Selby, on 28 August 1987. He was sentenced to die for killing three people in Ogden's HiFi Shop thirteen years earlier, and was the second black to be executed in Utah. Also two Hispanics and two Indians have been executed; all the others have been white men. Of the forty-seven executed men, twenty-five were non-Mormons, and eight Mormons; the religion of fourteen could not be specifically ascertained. The ages of those executed ranged from eighteen to sixty-four years of age--the age of John D. Lee when he was executed after being returned to the scene of the Mountain Meadows Massacre for execution, twenty years after the crime occurred.

[Source: Utah History Encyclopedia: Capital Punishment, http://www.media.utah.edu/UHE/c/CAPITOLPUN.html]

120 years ago today - Aug 28, 1892

[Apostle Anthon H. Lund Diary] [at a conference at Panguitch] "Adoption was referred to and the binding power of the priesthood"

[Source: Diary of Apostle Anthon H. Lund, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

165 years ago today - Aug 27, 1847. Friday.

[William Clayton Journal] Many of the brethren traded Sugar, Powder, Lead &c. to the Indians for robes and skins and meat. We started soon after 7 and traveled to the crossing of the Big Sandy then after halting an hour continued to the little Sandy making 25 1/4 miles today, but it was 9 o'clock before some of the wagons arrived . . .

[Source: George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]

85 years ago today - Aug 27, 1927

[Heber J. Grant, Anthony W. Ivins, and Charles W. Nibley to Pearl W. Peterson, Aug. 27, 1927] The only proper place for [a film] presentation [on the life of Jesus Christ] would be a holy temple, if the time could ever come when it might be deemed wise and proper to use the motion picture in these sacred places. We have no such intention at the present time.

[Source: Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]

75 years ago today - Aug 27, 1937

L. Jay Sylvester, later a world-class discus thrower, holder of six world records and six national championships, and an Olympic silver medalist (1968), is born in Tremonton, Utah.

[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]

45 years ago today - Aug 27, 1967

LOS ANGELES TIMES article "Race Discrimination Becoming Hot Issue in Mormon Church."

[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]

40 years ago today - Aug 26, 1972

CHURCH NEWS article about Mrs. Viola Clawson's recent retirement as supervisor of all-male guides on Salt Lake Temple Square since 1942. She had total discretion in their appointment, assigned days/hours, and release.

[Source: Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower]

170 years ago today - Aug 26, 1842

[Brigham Young] --26-- Met in the evening in council with the Prophet Joseph and some of the Twelve. We received much good instruction and counsel from Joseph, relative to the situation of the Church, and the policy to be pursued in sending many elders through the states to preach the gospel and disabuse the public mind in relation to the false statements of Dr. J. C. Bennett.

The Prophet also directed us to call a special conference on Monday next, and nominate the elders to go on this important mission, and give them their instructions; and that we should also get the affidavits against Dr. Bennett published, so that the elders might have authentic and strong testimony to lay before the public in relation to those matters.

[Source: Manuscript History of Brigham Young, 1801-1844, ed. Elden Jay Watson (Salt Lake City: Smith Secretarial Service, 1968).]

50 years ago today - Aug 26, 1962

The Glasgow, Scotland stake is organized with Archibald R. Richardson as President. It is the first stake in Scotland.

[Source: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, United Kingdom, "On This Day," https://www.lds.org.uk/show_oda.php]

165 years ago today - Aug 25, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] ... We shall leave this valley in the morning to start back to winter Quarters. We as A pioneer company have accomplished more this season then can be found on record concerning any set of men since the days of Adam. Having travled with heavy loaded waggons over one thousand miles having made our road more than one half of the way over & through the rough mountains & canions & searched out a glorious land as a resting place for the Saints & in one month after our arival laid out a city two miles square & built A fort & fortification of hewn timber drawn 7 miles from the mountains & of unburnt brick surrounding 10 acres of ground 40 rods of which was coverd with Block Houses, Besides planting about 100 Acres of corn, potatoes, Buckwheat turnips gardens &c. The pioneers did not exceed 150 men during the time. 140 of the Battalion arived. I think there was not over 100 men labouring on the work at a time, besides much exploring was done. And after accomplishing this work the company return to winter Quarters the place of Begining making nearly 2,500 miles traveling during one summer besides all the labour.

[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

115 years ago today - Wednesday, Aug 25, 1897

[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] ... We also attended to Adoptions linking the race together back to the Emigrant from England. It was a most happy day. ...

I called upon Mrs. Emma Robbins Riggs who is dangerously sick. She desires to be sealed to me in case she dies. In the presence of her sister, Mrs. Annie Robbins Barrett, this understanding was had...

We organized the Smith Historical and Genealogical Society, Joseph F. Smith, President. Elias A., John, Silas S. and John Henry Directors. Edith Ann was chosen Secretary and Recorder.

Cake and Ice Cream were passed. Short speaches were made by several and a good time was had. ...

[Source: Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith]

115 years ago today - Aug 25, 1897; Wednesday

Pres[ident]. Wilford Woodruff was at his office this morning, feeling bright and active; the heavenly visitation received by his daughter having revived his spirits greatly and filled his household with peace and happiness, imparting to him new vigor of mind and body. [see http://today-in-church-history.blogspot.com/2012/08/115-years-ago-today-aug-22-1897.html]

[Source: First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]

130 years ago today - Aug 25, 1882

[John Nuttle Diary] In the afternoon Pres Taylor & Smith decided that both tubs at Logan Temple shall be [illegible] feet long for Males and 6 feet long for females -- 24 inches wide at top -- 21 inches wide at bottom -- 20 inches deep the flare to be in front.

[Source: Diary Excerpts of L. John Nuttall, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

25 years ago today - Aug 25, 1987

National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences gives Emmy for public service spot "produced for the Church's Missionary Department by Bonneville Media Communications." LDS church is first religious organization to receive national Emmy (again 1988, 1993)

[Source: Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower]

80 years ago today - Aug 25, 1932

William Smith [brother of Joseph Smith who had been excommunicated by Brigham Young]: Baptized by proxy into LDS church 21 June 1932, and priesthood restored to him before proxy endowment on 25 Aug. 1932

[Source: 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, http://amzn.to/origins-power]

Aug 29, 1842

[Joseph Smith Journal] [Referring to Orson Pratt's planned suicide] ... Orson Pratt has attempted to destroy himself and caused all the city almost to go in search of him. .... O. Pratt and others of the same class caused trouble by telling stories to people who would betray me, and they must believe those stories because his Wife [Sarah Marinda Bates] told him so? I will live to trample on their ashes with the souls of my feet. I prophecy in the name of Jesus Christ that such shall not prosper, they shall be cut down in their plans. ... I prophecy in the name of the Lord Jesus, whose servant I am, that you will prosper in your missions. I have the whole plan of the kingdom before me, and no other person has. And as to all that Orson Pratt, Sidney Rigdon, or George W. Robinson can do to prevent me, I can kick them off my heels, as many as you can name, I know what will become of them... I will give a lashing every opportunity and I will curse them.

[Source: Scott H. Faulring, An American Prophet's Record: Journal, ca. 1841-43 'The Book of the Law of the Lord', http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]

115 years ago today - Aug 24, 1897

[President Wilford Woodruff Journal] Sister Sarah M. Kimball called on me this afternoon with a type written paper purporting to be a copy of the minutes of the first organization of the Relief Society in Nauvoo by the Prophet Joseph together with extracts of the minutes of other meetings and asked if there will be any objections in having the same printed in pamphlet form for distribution. I told her that myself & counselors would consider the matter.

[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

175 years ago today - --24 [August, 1837].

[Willard Richards Journal] --I preached under a shed--disturbed by noise.

[Source: Willard Richards Journal]

100 years ago today - Aug 24, 1912

[Joseph F. Smith, Anthon H. Lund, and Charles W. Penrose to John F. Tolton, Aug. 24, 1912] In recommending for second blessings, the purpose of the recommend should not be written [o]n the form * nothing in fact should be written excepting the names. A letter of explanation should always accompany such recommends, in which the recommend for higher blessings should be made.

[Source: Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]

80 years ago today - Aug 24, 1932

Robert D. Hales, later a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, is born in New York City, New York.

[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]

170 years ago today - Aug 23, 1842

Stephen and Zeruiah Goddard sign affidavit attesting that John C. Bennett and Sarah Pratt lived "as it were, [as] man and wife.

[Source: Hales, Brian C., Joseph Smith's Polygamy: History and Theology, 2 vols., Salt Lake City: Greg Kofford Books, 2011 (www.JosephSmithsPolygamy.com)]

130 years ago today - Aug 23, 1882

Rudger Clawson is tried for polygamy by a jury composed of 12 non-Mormons. Even though the polygamous marriage was performed before the 1862 Morrill act, he is tried ex-post facto, in clear violation of the Constitution of the United States. He is imprisoned and fined for his marriage.

[Source: Wikipedia, 19th Century (Mormonism), http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/19th_century_(Mormonism)]

30 years ago today - Aug 23, 1982

President Spencer W. Kimball is photographed with Brent and Charlene Ashworth with Mark Hofmann's forged "Lucy Mack Smith letter." The photograph and others are used extensively by the church to publicize the letter. At the meeting Kimball genially asks Ashworth, " Are you giving this letter to me?" Asworth replies, "I'll see that you get a good copy of it this afternoon."

[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]

155 years ago today - Aug 23, 1857

Heber C. Kimball preaches: "Some of you, ladies, that go abroad from house to house, blessing the sick, having your little circles of women come together, why are you troubling yourselves to bless and lay your hands on women, and prophesy on them, if you do not believe the principle? You make yourselves fools to say that that same power should not be on the man that has got the Priesthood, and with sisters that have not got any, only what they hold in connection will their husbands. We can tell what will come to pass; and one of you can talk in tongues and pour out your souls to God, and then one interpret; that is the course you take, and it is all right: go ahead, and God bless you and multiply blessings on you; but do not go round tattling about your husbands and talking against the Priesthood you are connected to. I do not say many of you do it; but you that do it are poor, miserable skunks." Kimball also preaches: ". . . let me tell you, the Holy Ghost is a man; he is one of the sons of our Father and our God; and he is that man that stood next to Jesus Christ just as I stand by brother Brigham"

[Source: Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower]

More History?

Want more Mormon history? Check out LDS-Church-History, a topical approach to the history of the church. Topics from the past have included Tithing, the Word of Wisdom, Z.C.M.I. and Dreams in Latter-day Saint history. More info can be found here: http://bit.ly/ldshst mh

115 years ago today - Aug 22, 1897

[President Wilford Woodruff Journal] ...

Statement of Miss /Mary/ [handwritten insert] Alice Woodruff Note made on Sunday evening, August 22nd, 1897.

About seven o'clock this evening, whilst I was lying on my bed, my father and mother and members of the family were out on the porch, Bro. Wm. McEwan was sitting near the bed. Bro. Louis Cannon, Edward Jenkins, Libbie Cutler, Joseph and Blanch Daynes called in to see me, they only stayed a few minutes, saying they were willing to help me all they could, but as all arrangements were made for my comfort, they said they would pray for me. As they left, I felt very sad with a feeling that I would never see them again, so I commenced to cry bitterly. William endeavored to comfort me with encouraging words. As he was talking I beheld a brilliant light, which frightened me. I held on to William and called "father, father." I then saw a most glorious personage standing near the foot of the bed, his feet were off the floor. On my calling for father, Will went out passing by this personage, almost touching his clothing, and father and the family came in. I motioned them all to go out but father as I thought he might also see this personage as I did. I sat up in my bed, quite awake, he stretched out his arms over my head and said in a distinct but under tone of voice, "The Lord has sent me to bless you, you shall be healed from this time forth. The Lord seals his blessings upon you." He then came to the side of the bed and said I must go to the Temple and there I should receive something (I have forgotten what it was I should receive) and further said the prayers of the circles in the heavens have been heard in your behalf, and the prayers of the circles here upon the earth, also the prayers of the saints have been heard; that I should stay here and be blessed in my life; that I should have joy and pleasure in my union, be blessed as a mother, having posterity. Said you are a daughter of Israel and shall stand as a representative in your father's kingdom. The Lord will give you health and strength and bless you so that you may love him and keep his commandments, for a great work is before you and he expects a great deal from you. I was so overjoyed I could not speak, I tried to do so but could not. He said many other things for my comfort and consolation, and just before leaving he stretched his hands over my head again and referred to my Temple work and blessed me saying: "The Lord will bless you with health and strength and make you well and strong, and he expects you to spend your strength in doing his will, I therefore bless you in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen. He then put his hands together in front of his face and dropped them down to his hips. I then saw him rise up to near the chandelier and pass out going towards the hall and thence towards the dining hall. I was so overjoyed I cried for joy. As soon as I could speak from crying and sobbing I related to father what I had seen as I did not know whether it was proper to speak of it or not; but I felt so overjoyed at such a manifestation and have felt so ever since that I can scarcely contain myself. All my pains ceased immediately. I felt like I could get out of my bed well and strong, like I was completely restored to health. I partook of some food with a relish.

This personage was the most beautiful man I ever saw. He had long hair and beard, was dressed in a white under garment, then a kind of skirt and something like a robe over his right shoulder, which was drawn across his breast and fastened on the left side about the waist. He had a small white bag trimmed with gold attached to his girdle, and had a small gold like book in his hand, which seemed to be transparent. I did not see any leaves, but I thought I could see print or writing in the book. His head was bare and a circle of light around it. His feet and hands were also bare.

About half an hour before this manifestation Bros. John R. Winder and James Sharp, father, Andrew Smith and Will administered to me. Bro. Winder anointed me and Bro. Sharp prayed. He seemed to be peculiarly wrought upon. He blessed me promising that I should be restored to health and strength, &c. Whilst they were doing this I did not seem to feel their hands on my head, but I felt so well under their administration...

[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

175 years ago today - about Aug 22, 1837

Canada. Joseph Smith spent most of August in Canada, where he preached, baptized, blessed the Saints, and strengthened the branches.

[Source: BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith, http://byustudies.byu.edu]

25 years ago today - Aug 22, 1987

John Tarsnoh, the first convert of the Church in the southwest African country of Liberia, is baptized.

[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]

150 years ago today - Aug 22, 1862

President [Brigham] Young said to me [Wilford Woodruff,] Isaac Morley & Brother Levi Jackman that I want this [Salt Lake] Temple to stand through the Millannium and I want it so built that it will be acceptabl[e] to the Lord & I was not satisfied with the Foundation without taking it up & I want to hasten with it so as to get it as near done as I can before we go to Jackson County [Missouri1/2] the way things are going the way will soon be clear - I think It will not be more than seven years and I want to get the Temple most done before we go. I do not want to Finish any temple untill the one in Jackson County is finished - keep this a secret - dont tell of it lest some will be discouraged - But no Temple will be finished until the one pointed out in Jackson County by Joseph Smith - I want to have Father Morley & Brother Levi Jackman live to go back with me what are old Jackson Co[unty] members ... [Wilford Woodruff, Historian s Private Journal]

[Source: Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1893]

165 years ago today - Aug 22, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 22d Sunday I went to the warm springs & bathed in the morning. Met in conference with the Twelve & saints at 1 oclok & resolved universally to Call this place City of the great salt Lake of the great Bason North America. Named the stream runing through the City City Creek. The Utah outlet western Jordon & two creeks Coming out of the mountains great Canion Creek & little Canion Creek & one large stream Mill Creek. Voted to fence in the city or portions of it for farming purposes for the coming year. Voted to appoint A President, & High Council, & all other necessary officers in this stake of Zion. The Twelve write an epistle to leave with the saints in the City of the great Salt lake. Adjourned untill the 6th of October AD 1848.

[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

170 years ago today - Aug 21, 1842 (Sunday)

Sidney Rigdon testified in public meeting, at Nauvoo, that his daughter, Eliza, had been raised from the dead by the power of God.

[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

85 years ago today - Aug 21, 1927

Thomas S. Monson, later a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and First Presidency, is born in Salt Lake City, Utah.

[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]

175 years ago today - Aug 21, 1837

John Taylor: Ordained high priest 21 August 1837.

[Source: 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, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]

170 years ago today - Aug 21, 1842

Orson Pratt: "signified his intention of coming out in defense of the truth and go to preaching" 21 Aug. 1842

[Source: 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, http://amzn.to/origins-power]

45 years ago today - Aug 21, 1967

First Presidency letter: "It appears that some bishops and branch presidents remove the names of inactive members of their ward or branch from Church rolls in order that the ward or branch statistical records may present a better showing. . . . Even the fact that an individual has joined another Church in not always justifiable cause for excommunication. . . . some wives of non-members have been excommunicated because their husbands refuse to permit them to be active."

[Source: Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower]

Aug 21, 1877

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] Aug 21, 1877 I Wilford Woodruff went to the Temple of the Lord this morning and was Baptized for 100 persons who were dead including the signers of the Declaration of Independance all except John Hancock and [William Floyd]. ... It was a vary interesting day. I felt thankful that we had the privilege and the power to administer for the worthy dead esspecially for the signers of the declaration of Independance, that inasmuch as they had laid the foundation of our Government that we Could do as much for them as they had done for us.

Sister Lucy Bigelow Young went forth into the font and was Baptized for Martha Washington and her famaly and seventy (70) of the Eminent women of the world. I Called upon all the Brethren & Sisters who were present to assist in getting Endowments for those that we had been Baptized for to day....

[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

70 years ago today - Aug 20, 1942

[President Heber J. Grant Diary] Went to the temple at 10 o'clock and attended the regular temple meeting of the Presidency and Apostles. Remained until after the prayer circle and made my report and then withdrew. I told the brethren that I was not ready or willing to recommend Hyrum G. Smith's boy to be the Presiding Patriarch. I would like the brethren to be a unit in recommending him, and if they did maybe I would consent to his being put in, but I could not sign my name conscientiously to having him for our Patriarch. We have had a vacancy for ten years in the office of Patriarch, and I think it is all wrong. I think I should have insisted that we unite on someone other than Hyrum G.'s son, seeing that I did not feel impressed to appoint him.

[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

80 years ago today - Aug 20, 1932

The First Presidency announces plans to erect a monument on the summit of the Hill Cumorah.

[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]

20 years ago today - Aug 20, 1992

Elder Richard G. Scott begins a five-day tour of Africa, during which he dedicates Zambia, Botswana, Namibia, and Congo for the preaching of the gospel.

[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]

170 years ago today - Aug 20, 1842

Three apostles excommunicate Orson Pratt and ordain his replacement, Amasa Lyman, in the Quorum of the Twelve. Pratt is excommunicated for his anger against Joseph Smith who, Pratt found out from his wife, had propositioned Pratt's wife, Sarah, while Pratt was absent on a mission. Joseph, in maintaining his innocence, calls Sarah Pratt "a whore from her mother's breast."

[Source: Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower]

170 years ago today - Aug 20, 1842

[Amasa M. Lyman] Lyman was ordained an apostle at age 29 on 20 August 1842 by Brigham Young. He served twenty-five years as an apostle, including one and a half years in the church First Presidency as counselor to the prophet Joseph Smith. Amasa served with Zion's Camp, and was imprisoned with Joseph Smith in the Richmond jail. He was a regent of the University of Nauvoo, a justice of the peace, and a company captain in the first two pioneer treks to Utah. He helped to lead a detachment of the Mormon Battalion from Pueblo to the Great Salt Lake Valley, and helped to lay out the wards of Salt Lake City. He later served ten years in the Utah Territorial Legislature. He scouted the western and southern approaches to Utah and designed a defense against potential attack from enemies. He and Porter Rockwell evaluated the valley around Utah Lake for its first settlement.

[Source: Utah History Encyclopedia: Amasa M. Lyman, http://www.media.utah.edu/UHE/l/LYMAN%2CAMASA.html]

35 years ago today - Aug 19, 1977

The first annual Church Educational System Religious Educators Symposium (later known as CES Conference), a multiday conference for seminary and institute faculty highlighting the upcoming course of study, is held at Brigham Young University.

[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]

170 years ago today - Aug 19, 1842

The SANGAMO JOURNAL publishes "JOE SMITH'S MORALITY. What Joe's morality amounts to, can be learned from his letter to Miss Rigdon, which will be found in the 6th communication of Gen. Bennett, in this paper. Joe Smith, in the letter alluded to, undertakes to sustain by the Scriptures, by reason, argument, and GOD'S REVELATION TO HIMSELF, the lawfulness of his "spiritual wife doctrine." Joseph Smith's letter to Nancy Rigdon is given by John C. Bennett, former Assistant President of the Church, in his exposee of Mormonism: "Happiness is the object and design of our existence; and will be the end thereof, if we pursue the path that leads to it, . . . That which is wrong under one circumstance, may be, and often is, right under another. God said, thou shalt not kill, -- at another time he said, thou shalt utterly destroy. This is the principle on which the government of heaven is conducted -- by revelation adapted to the circumstances in which the children of the kingdom are placed. Whatever God requires is right, NO MATTER WHAT IT IS, . . . " Mormon leaders deny that Joseph wrote the letter and claim it is made up by Bennett. However long after the Mormons have moved to Utah the same "essay" is published in the History of the Church and later in "Teaching of the Prophet Joseph Smith" as being by Joseph Smith.

[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]

135 years ago today - Aug 19, 1877

Apostle Wilford Woodruff tells Sunday school meeting that he heard Joseph Smith say: "If the people knew what was behind the vail they would try by every means to commit suicide that they might get there but the Lord in his wisdom had emplanted the fear of death in every person that they might cling to life and thus accomplish the designs of their creator." Later Woodruff spends the evening preparing a "list of the Noted Men of the 17 Centaury and 18th including the signers of the declaration of Independance for Baptism on Tuesday the 21 Aug 1877." Though he did not record the incident in his journal, he later claims that he had been visited in dreams or visions by the signers of the Declaration of Independence, who had urged him to help redeem them by doing their temple work"

[Source: Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower]

115 years ago today - Aug 19, 1897; Thursday

At 11 A.M. the First Presidency and Apostles met at the Temple. Pres[ident]. Jos[eph]. F. Smith drew attention to the fact that some of the [Joseph] Smith family who had died had not received the Temple ordinances, and asked in relation to William Smith and Emma Smith, brother and wife of the Prophet. Pres[ident]. [Wilford] Woodruff thought it was better to leave those persons in the hands of the Prophet himself. ...

[Source: First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]

120 years ago today - Aug 19, 1892

[Francis M. Lyman] Assisted Governor Thomas and a gentleman from Pittsburgh to get a peep into the temple.

[Source: Excerpts of Apostle Francis M. Lyman Diaries, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

170 years ago today - Aug 18, 1842

Joseph Smith writes to Newell Whitney, Newell's wife and seventeen-year-old daughter Sarah Ann who became Joseph's plural wife three weeks earlier: "Dear, and Beloved, Brother and Sister, Whitney, and &c.-I take this oppertunity to communi[c]ate, some of my feelings, privetely at this time, which I want you three Eternaly to keep in your own bosams; for my feelings are so strong for you since what has pased lately between us, that the time of my abscence from you seems so long, and dreary, that it seems, as if I could not live long in this way: and if you three would come and see me in this my lonely retreat, it would afford me great relief, of mind, if those with whom I am alied, do love me, now is the time to afford me succour, in the days of exile, for you know I foretold you of these things. I am now at Carlos Graingers, Just back of Brother Hyrams farm, it is only one mile from town, the nights are very pleasant indeed, all three of you can come and See me in the fore part of the night, let Brother Whitney come a little a head, and nock at the south East corner of the house at the window; it is next to the cornfield, I have a room intirely by myself, the whole matter can be attended to with most perfect safty, I know it is the will of God that you should comfort me now in this time of afiliction, or not at [al]l[;] now is the time or never, but I hav[e] no kneed of saying any such thing, to you, for I know the goodness of your hearts, and that you will do the will of the Lord, when it is made known to you; the only thing to be careful of; is to find out when Emma [Smith] comes then you cannot be safe, but when she is not here, there is the most perfect safty: only be careful to escape observation, as much as possible, I know it is a heroick undertakeing; but so much the greater frendship, and the more Joy, when I see you I will tell you all my plans, I cannot write them on paper, burn this letter as soon as you read it; keep all locked up in your breasts, my life depends upon it. one thing I want to see you for it is to git the fulness of my blessings sealed upon our heads, &c. you will pardon me for my earnestness on this subject when you consider how lonesome I must be, your good feelings know how to make every allowance for me, I close my letter, I think Emma [Smith, his first wife] wont come tonight[,] if she dont dont fail to come to night. I subscribe myself your most obedient, and affectionate, companion, and friend."
[Source:  Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower ]

20 years ago today - Aug 18, 1992.

Keynoting the devotional for the estimated 30,000 participants at BYU Education Week, Elder Neal A. Maxwell criticizes some intellectuals: "Exciting exploration is preferred by them to plodding implementation, as speculation and argumentations seem more fun to these few individuals rather than consecration, so they even try to soften the hard doctrines. By not obeying, they lack knowledge and thus cannot defend their faith, and a few become critics instead of defenders."

[Source: Anderson, Lavina Fielding, "The LDS Intellectual Community and Church Leadership: A Contemporary Chronology," Dialogue, Vol.26, No.1]

130 years ago today - Aug 18, 1882

The Utah Commission, authorized in the Edmunds law, arrived in the territory. The five members of the commission, appointed by the U.S. president, had responsibility of supervising election procedures in Utah. Since the result of its activities was to enforce the disenfranchisement of much of the Mormon population, Church members considered its work unfair.

[Source: 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]

5 years ago today - Aug 18, 2007

[Finances] Church contractors implode a 20-story office building in downtown Salt Lake City, the final step in preparations to begin construction on City Creek Center, a $1.5 billion redevelopment project. (Presiding Bishop H. David Burton has stated that no tithing funds will be used in the completion of this project.)

Church publicists announce that City Creek Center is scheduled to be completed in 2011.

[Source: http://www.heraldextra.com/content/view/282148/]

15 years ago today - Aug 17, 1997

The Abidjan Ivory Coast Stake, the first stake in the West African country of Ivory Coast, is organized, with Cyr Philippe Assard as president.

[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]

170 years ago today - Aug 17, 1842

Joseph Smith denies claims of polygamy and cites the Article on Marriage, saying a man should have one wife.

[Source: Tidd, N. R., "Mormon Chronology"]

155 years ago today - Monday, Aug 17, 1857

Pitchforth reports Fancher party passes through Nephi

S. B. Honea with Captain Nicholas Turner: "On the 17th of August, passed through the city of Salt Lake. Remained only three or four hours. Had a conversation with a merchant, a Gentile, who stated that on the previous Sunday, Brigham Young had declared, in the Temple, that henceforth Utah was a separate and independent Territory, and owed no obedience or allegiance to any form or laws, but those of their own enactment."

[Source: Mountain Meadows Massacre timeline, Will Bagley]

140 years ago today - Aug 17, 1872

Brigham Young privately tells Wilford Woodruff that he "would like to put 1,000 families on My farm [presumably his Cache Valley operation] which would make 10 Acres each & Commence the [United] order of Enoch but I would want a Revelation to know who to put there. . . . I know of 2 Men that I think would do right & that is you & me. I Could not say about our families."

[Source: Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower]

70 years ago today - Aug 17, 1942

The USS Brigham Young, a Liberty class ship, was christened. General

[Source: 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]

175 years ago today - Aug 16, 1837

John Murdock: Wife, Amoranda, died 16 August 1837.

[Source: 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, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]

80 years ago today - Aug 16, 1932

[President Heber J. Grant Diary] Had a little chat with David O. McKay and told him I thought the little pamphlet that had been issued regarding Prohibition, signed by himself and others, was unwise and would do more harm than good in trying to reelect Reed Smoot the (sic) to the senate. I assured him that I did not propose personally to ask any man to vote for Brother Smoot but that I should be happy if he is returned to the senate.

[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

120 years ago today - Aug 16, 1892

[President Wilford Woodruff Journal] 16 I spent the day in the Office. I had an interview with Judge Granger & several others with Judge Judd.

[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

100 years ago today - Aug 15, 1912; Thursday

Attended council meeting of the First Presidency and Twelve in the Temple.

In the matter of publication of colored post cards showing temple interiors, referred to under date of 8th inst., the First Presidency has directed that the entire edition be destroyed.

[Source: James E. Talmage, Diary]

155 years ago today - Aug 15-16, 1857

- Apostle George A. Smith preaches fiery sermons at Cedar City in southern Utah. Smith left Salt Lake City on Aug. 13 and brings latest news of U.S. army's "invasion," also report of Apostle Parley Pratt's murder in Arkansas. Smith likes wearing a holstered revolver in public, appeals to memories of Missouri persecutions, and has been preaching "speedy vengeance" for a decade. From all accounts he leaves Mormons of southern Utah filled with hatred and fear of their approaching enemies. A clerk records that in traveling north on Aug. 25 G. A. Smith meets "a party of emigrants who seemed to be much excited and placed a double guard as soon as we arrived." A few days later that emigrant party camps farther south at a place called Mountain Meadows.

[Source: Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower]

20 years ago today - Aug 15, 1992

Commemorating the "second rescue" of the ill-fated Willie and Martin handcart pioneers, President Hinckley dedicated three monuments in central Wyoming. The Riverton Wyoming Stake researched family histories and performed temple ordinances for those pioneers whose work was not previously done.

[Source: 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]

25 years ago today - Aug 15, 1987

The Church's Genealogical Department was renamed the Family History Department.

[Source: 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]

20 years ago today - Aug 14, 1992.

Peggy Fletcher Stack's Salt Lake Tribune article reporting the First Presidency statement begins: "Mormon Church leaders say they have a scriptural mandate to keep secret files on outspoken members." Ross Peterson is quoted as saying that the statement "is `stretching the scriptural justification. Comparing Sunstone and Dialogue folks to people who were shooting Mormons in 1839 Missouri is unfair." He described his own "grill[ing]" by his area presidency who "continually drew photocopied items out of a file and asked him about things he had written decades ago. The file was sitting on the churchmen's desk, but Mr. Peterson was not allowed to see its contents." "Files are a strange carryover from a paranoia that resembles McCarthyism," says Peterson. The article also cites unnamed "LDS Church employees" who tell the Tribune that William O. Nelson "shares President Benson's John Birch Society politics" and that "the church has kept files on outspoken members for decades. In the late 1970s a church librarian, Tom Truitt, told researchers in the LDS historical department that he was `on a special assignment from the brethren' to read all LDS historical articles, underline `objectionable parts' and send them on to the `brethren.' His clipping system was influential in having the one-volume history of the LDS church, Story of the Latter-day Saints, removed from the shelves at Deseret Book stores and dropped from the reading list at LDS institutes." Linda Newell points out, "It's one thing to know who your enemies are. But it's quite another thing to label as an enemy church members who love the church, who work in the church, who pay their tithing, who go to the temple, and who only want to help the church."

[Source: Anderson, Lavina Fielding, "The LDS Intellectual Community and Church Leadership: A Contemporary Chronology," Dialogue, Vol.26, No.1]

165 years ago today - Aug 14, 1847. Saturday.

[William Clayton Journal] Started at 20 minutes to 9 in company with a number of others for the Salt Lake. We arrived at 3 o'clock and estimated the distance 22 miles. We all bathed in it and found the reports of those who had previously bathed in no ways exaggerated. We returned back to the river where we arrived at 11 o'clock at the beginning of a light thunder shower. There is no pure fresh water between the river and the Lake.

[Source: George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]

30 years ago today - Aug 14, 1982

President Gordon B. Hinckley of the First Presidency dedicated seventeen restored historical sites in Nauvoo, including the Nauvoo Temple block.

[Source: Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple]

170 years ago today - Aug 14, 1842

Eliza R. Snow [plural wife of Joseph Smith] moves into the Homestead to live with the Smith family.

[Source: Hales, Brian C., Joseph Smith's Polygamy: History and Theology, 2 vols., Salt Lake City: Greg Kofford Books, 2011 (www.JosephSmithsPolygamy.com)]

70 years ago today - Aug 13, 1942

[President Heber J. Grant Diary] Came to the office at 11:30 and had a long talk with Elder Levi Edgar Young regarding the speech that he made over the radio on the Church of the Air program. I told him that I was astonished that he did not testify to the divine mission of the Prophet, he simply said that a Prophet had said, quoting his language, without giving him any credit. He told me that he had been advised by Brother Stephen L. Richards and the committee that the Columbia Broadcasting Company objected to our utilizing the radio broadcasting system to preach our faith, and that we had to be very careful. He testified to me that he had perfect faith in the divine mission of the Prophet, for which I feel very grateful because I felt that he was lacking in faith, and I hope that I was mistaken. The interview was very satisfactory indeed and I so announced to Brother Clark.

[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

20 years ago today - Aug 13, 1992.

The First Presidency issues a statement in response to "extensive publicity recently given to false accusations of so-called secret Church committees and files." The statement cites Doctrine and Covenants 123:1-5, which enjoins "the propriety of all the saints gathering up . . . the names of all persons that have had a hand in their oppressions" during the Missouri period and then continues: "In order to assist their members who have questions, these local leaders often request information from General Authorities. . . . The Strengthening Church Members committee was appointed by the First Presidency to help fulfill this need and to comply with the cited section of the Doctrine and Covenants. This committee serves as a resource to priesthood leaders throughout the world who may desire assistance on a wide variety of topics. It is a General Authority committee, currently comprised of Elder James E. Faust and Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. They work through established priesthood channels, and neither impose nor direct Church disciplinary action." The statement counsels members with "questions concerning Church doctrine, policies, or procedures" to "discuss those concerns confidentially with their local leaders."

[Source: Anderson, Lavina Fielding, "The LDS Intellectual Community and Church Leadership: A Contemporary Chronology," Dialogue, Vol.26, No.1]

120 years ago today - Aug 13, 1892

[Francis M. Lyman] [Afton conference, President Joseph F. Smith] counseled the Saints in the upper valleys to refrain entirely from round dances, He made a political talk advising division on party lines giving every man liberty to aline himself with his choice of parties. I followed on same subject and told them my predilections for home industries as I have been educated by Pres[ident] Young.

[Source: Excerpts of Apostle Francis M. Lyman Diaries, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

130 years ago today - Aug 12, 1882

[Apostle Rudger Clawson] Marries Florence Ann Dinwoodey at the Salt Lake Endowment House. Child: Rudger Elmo.

[Source: Larsen, Stan (editor), A Ministry of Meetings:The Apostolic Diaries of Rudger Clawson, Significant Mormon Diaries Series No. 6, A Rudger Clawson Chronology, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson]

170 years ago today - Aug 12, 1842

Zarahemla, Iowa. It became apparent to Joseph Smith that the entire proceedings of his arrest and trial by Thomas Carlin, governor of Illinois, and others were entirely illegal.

[Source: BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith, http://byustudies.byu.edu]

175 years ago today - Aug 12, 1837

[Brigham Young Journal] (p) Brigham Young one perrfesion August 12 1837 from chanaster to hyrum (bad illegible) Brigham Young one pan f thers in 1837 from chanc to Lamite Mr. John Bullen lives in South Port on Pike River West bonson Comstock Hotel at the Soenenye of Albany Bason I am to leave the Rockwood sent a letter for me I arrived I read when I arived at the Home J. or L. Herbner

[Source: Brigham Young Journal (1801-1877) Journal #2 July, 1837- Mar. 1845]

165 years ago today - Aug 11, 1847. Wednesday.

[William Clayton Journal] Early this morning a large company of the Utah Indians came to visit the camp and it was with difficulty they could be kept outside the wagons. There are few of them who have any clothing on except the breech clout and are mostly of low stature. They have scarce anything to trade and not many women and children with them. They are camped about 3 miles north of west and supposed to be going north hunting. One of them was detected stealing some clothing which lay on the bushes to dry, but was made to leave it. When they found they were not permitted inside the circle they soon moved off to their camp.

The brethren have commenced laying the adobie wall today which will be 27 inches thick and nine feet high. The adobes are 18 inches long, 9 inches broad and 4-1/2 inches thick.

The brethren in camp have finished the skiff and launched her in the creek to soak . . .

[Source: George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]

45 years ago today - Aug 11, 1967

At a meeting in the Tustin Ward Chapel of Santa Ana, California, Hugh Nibley states that the papyrus text for the Book of Abraham and the Book of Joseph were not destroyed in the Chicago fire but are still in existence. The first official announcement of the papyri's existence occurs over three months later.

[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]

80 years ago today - Aug 11, 1932

[President Heber J. Grant Diary] I called at my son-in-law George J. Cannon's and listened to President Hoover's speech of acceptance. I thought it was far ahead of Roosevelt's speech in Chicago-to my mind, more statesmanlike. Maybe I do Roosevelt an injustice, but I give Hoover credit for being less of a politician and more of a statesman.

[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

5 years ago today - Aug 11, 2007

HUNTINGTON, Utah, USA Church members were counted among the six coal miners trapped inside the Crandall Canyon Mine near this small community in central Utah.

[Source: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, United Kingdom, "On This Day," https://www.lds.org.uk/show_oda.php]

170 years ago today - Aug 10, 1842

Joseph Smith goes into hiding to avoid Missouri lawmen.

[Source: Hales, Brian C., Joseph Smith's Polygamy: History and Theology, 2 vols., Salt Lake City: Greg Kofford Books, 2011 (www.JosephSmithsPolygamy.com)]

165 years ago today - Aug 10, 1847

William Clayton writes in his journal of the progress the pioneers have made since their arrival 18 days ago: "in addition to the plowing done week before last they have plowed about 30 acres which is mostly planted, making a total of about 80 acres. . . . the brethren are now making adobies, hawling logs &c. Elder [Henry] Sherwood continues surveying the City. [Thomas] Tanner and [Burr] Frost are setting wagon tire and have set 52 today. The brethren who went to the Lake on Monday to boil down salt have returned this evening and report that they have found a bed of beautiful salt ready to load onto wagons. It lays between two Sand bars and is about 6 inches thick. They suppose they can easily load ten wagons without boiling. I have received from Elder Kimball a pair of buckskin pants, as a present I suppose, but as I have on similar occasions been branded with the idea of receiving a great many kindnesses without consideration, I will for this once state a little particular on the other side of the question. I acknowledge that I have had the privilege of riding in a wagon and sleeping in it, of having my victual cooked, and some meat and milk, and occasionally a little tea or coffee furnished. My flour I furnished myself."

[Source: Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower]

5 years ago today - Aug 10, 2007 - 6 October 2007

[1st Presidency Changes] Gordon B. Hinckley Thomas S. Monson Death of James E. Faust

[Source: Wikipedia, First Presidency (LDS Church), http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_Presidency_(LDS_Church)#Chronology_of_the_First_Presidency]

15 years ago today - Aug 10, 1997

Lee Groberg's Trail of Hope: The Story of the Mormon Trail makes its world premier on PBS.

[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]

165 years ago today - Aug 09, 1847

Catharine C. Steele, wife of John Steele, gives birth to a daughter they name Young Elizabeth Steele; she is the first white child born in the Salt Lake Valley.

[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]

165 years ago today - Aug 9, 1847

The Twelve had decide on a name for their settlement "and a caption for all letters and documents issued from this place, which is as follows: Salt Lake City, Great Basin, North America."

[Source: Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower]

20 years ago today - Aug 9, 1992

General authority Jacob de Jaeger tells Salt Lake City congregation that Latter-day Saints have responsibility "to get along with everybody-and that includes those that read the ENSIGN and those that read SUNSTONE."

[Source: Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower]

15 years ago today - 1997 9-10 August

[Hinckley] Addressed 56,000 people in four nations in South America: Paraguay, Ecuador, Venezuela and Uruguay

[Source: 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]

100 years ago today - Aug 8, 1912; Thursday

Attended council meeting of the First Presidency and the Twelve in the Temple.

A very regrettable condition has come to light in connection with the publication of temple pictures. The city is flooded with cheap, gaudy post-cards containing pictures of the temple interior. A matter of possible violation of copyright is held for investigation pending the return of President Joseph F. Smith. In the meantime I have been instructed to serve notice on the "Souvenir Novelty Company", to suppress the cards and all announcements of same.

[Source: James E. Talmage, Diary]

170 years ago today - Aug 8, 1842

[Brigham Young] ...Assisted by Elders H. [Heber] C. Kimball and Geo. [George] A. Smith, I spent several days laboring with Elder Orson Pratt, whose mind became so darkened by the influence and statements of his wife, that he came out in rebellion against Joseph, refusing to believe his testimony or obey his counsel. He said he would believe his wife in preference to the Prophet. Joseph told him if he did believe his wife and follow her suggestions, he would go to hell.

We reported to the Prophet that we had labored with Brother Orson [Pratt] diligently in a spirit of meekness, forbearance and long-suffering. He requested us to ordain Brother Amasa Lyman in Brother Orson's stead. After receiving these instructions, we met Brother Orson near my house, and continued to labor with him. He said to us, There is Brother Amasa Lyman in your house, Brother Young; he has been long in the ministry, go in and ordain him in my stead.

[Source: Manuscript History of Brigham Young, 1801-1844, ed. Elden Jay Watson (Salt Lake City: Smith Secretarial Service, 1968).]

170 years ago today - 1842 8 Aug.

Joseph Smith is arrested as an accessory to the attempted murder of ex-Governor Lilburn Boggs. Nauvoo's municipal court claims jurisdiction over Joseph Smith and discharges him....

[Source: 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, http://amzn.to/origins-power]

20 years ago today - Aug 8, 1992.

An Associated Press story by Vern Anderson quotes church spokesman Don LeFevre's acknowledgement that the "Strengthening Church Members Committee" "provides local church leadership with information designed to help them counsel with members who may hinder the progress of the church through public criticism." It also reports the experience of Omar Kader of Washington, D.C., formerly of BYU's political science department. Kader says a BYU administrator told him that Nelson, then Kader's stake president, kept a file on his political activities as a Democrat in Provo in the late 1970s. Nelson "categorically denied keeping a file on Kader" and also denied "knowing Omar and Nancy Kader."

Nelson is director of the Evaluation Division, Church Correlation Department, which reports to Elder Boyd K. Packer, and was executive assistant to Ezra Taft Benson while Benson was president of the Quorum of the Twelve (1974-85).

[Source: Anderson, Lavina Fielding, "The LDS Intellectual Community and Church Leadership: A Contemporary Chronology," Dialogue, Vol.26, No.1]

Aug 7, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] ... In the afternoon the Twelve went onto the Temple Block & picked out there inheritances. President Young took a block east of the temple & runing S.E. to settle his friends around him. Br H. C. Kimball took A Block North of the Temple. Will settle his friends on the north. O. Pratt south of the Temple Joining the temple Block & runs south. W. Woodruff took A Block Cornering on the Temple lot at the S. west Corner Joining O Pratts Block & will settle his friends on the south. A Lyman took A Block 40 rods Below & west of W. Woodruff Block & runs S West of the Temple to settle his friends. G. A. Smith took A Block Joining the Temple on the west & runs due west. It was supposed Br Richards would take his inheritance on the east near Br Young. None others of the Twelve were present in the Camp. Br Benson had gone back to meet the camp & 3 of the quorum was in winter quarters.

During the evening in company with the Twelve I went to one of the pure streams of Cold water that runs through the City & H C Kimball baptized 55 members of the Camp for the remission of their sins who were Confirmed under the Hands of President[ts?] Young O Pratt, W Woodruff, A Lyman, & G. A. Smith. B Young was mouth in confirming the greatest number of them.

[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

30 years ago today - Aug 7, 1982

41-year old Orem native Merlin Olsen is inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame only five years after his retirement from football-the first year of elegibility. Olsen, who is also a member of the collegiate Hall of Fame goes on to become a well-known television actor and personality.

[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]

Aug 7, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Saturday Aug 7th 1847. Sent 5 men out on guard & staid in. This morning Henry Phelps son of W. W. Phelps attempted to wrest their horse out of the stray pen & I gave him a severe caining & broke a good fancy hickry cain given me by Br Stewart, all to pieces[.] He ran through the lot and cried so lout that he excited the whole neighbourhood which caused much to be said for & against us a police.Henry was a young about grown & needed all he got for his imprudence for he was a rebllious person and had threatened us on former occasions if we did not do as he wanted.I reported the affair to Presidents Cutler & Harris who approved of it & thought it would do him good.I was around as usual and on guard till one oclock at night.

[Source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Aug 7, 1847

When the first pioneers arrived in the Salt Lake Valley, Church leaders dammed City Creek and used the resulting pond for rebaptisms and baptisms for health.

[Source: Stapley, Jonathan and Wright, Kristine, '"They Shall Be Made Whole": A History of Baptism for Health,' Journal of Mormon History, Fall 2008]

15 years ago today - Aug 7, 1997-14

President Hinckley delivered 12 addresses to about 56,000 people in four nations of South America: Paraguay, Ecuador, Venezuela and Uruguay.

[Source: 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]

150 years ago today - Aug 6, 1862

"Monogamy, or restrictions by law to one wife, is no part of the economy of heaven among men. Such a system was commenced by the founders of the Roman empire....Rome became the mistress of the world, and introduced this order of monogamy wherever her sway was acknowledged. Thus this monogamic order of marriage, so esteemed by modern Christians as a holy sacrament and divine institution, is nothing but a system established by a set of robbers.... Why do we believe in and practice polygamy? Because the Lord introduced it to his servants in a revelation given to Joseph Smith, and the Lord's servants have always practiced it. 'And is that religion popular in heaven?' it is the only popular religion there,..." -- Brigham Young, The Deseret News

[Source: LDS Quotations, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html]

165 years ago today - 1847 6 Aug.

Apostles in Salt Lake Valley rebaptize, reconfirm, and reordain each other and the next day begin rebaptizing and reconfirming all pioneers in the valley.

[Source: 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, http://amzn.to/origins-power]

70 years ago today - Aug 6, 1942

[President Heber J. Grant Diary] Had a very pleasant visit with Preston Nibley and I told him that I wanted to tell him one thing and that was that inasmuch as some of our brethren, John W. Taylor, Owen Woodruff, and Matthias Cowley got on the wrong track and were urging plural marriage, I had no ill-will towards his father-in-law, George C. Parkinson. If a man could not believe three of the Apostles whom could he believe. Brother Parkinson and others who got into that relationship and then discontinued it, I said there was never ill will towards them, and I wanted him to know that.

[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

30 years ago today - Aug 6, 1982

... BYU's public television station KBYU cancels last in a three-part series on homosexuality in Utah because "it did not meet the standard of accuracy set by the station." The third part of the student production contained interviews with homosexual students at BYU with lighting techniques used which darkened the faces of the students being interviewed. The DAILY UNIVERSE quotes KBYU's news director Louise Degn as saying, "Nothing was wrong with the story journalistically, and I told [KBYU's General Manager] Joe White I felt he was wrong in his decision to cancel the story."

[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]

170 years ago today - 1842 6 Aug.

While attending a Masonic ceremony Joseph Smith prophesies that Mormons would settle in the Rocky Mountains.

[Source: 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, http://amzn.to/origins-power]

90 years ago today - Aug 05, 1922

L. Tom Perry, later a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, is born in Logan, Utah.

[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]

125 years ago today - Aug 5, 1887

[Apostle Franklin D. Richards Diary] Today succeeded in comparing, completing and reading an Article for Gay & Coy to put in their Â"What the World Believes" & wrote them a letter ... NY permitting them to use my name and title as Apostle & asst Historian conditioned they would make corrections in gally slips as marked & insert article on Polygamy in Utah without alteration.

[Source: Diary Excerpts of Franklin D. Richards, 1887-1897, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

165 years ago today - Aug 5, 1847

[Hosea Stout Diary] Thursday Augt 5th 1847. Sent out 5 men on guard & staid at home.

Louisa, now my only child, who had been sick for a long time died today which seemed to complete the dark curtain which has been drawn over me since I left Nauvoo. My family then consisted of 8 members & now but two.Five of whom has died & now I am left childless but I shall not dwell on this painful subject.

[Source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

155 years ago today - Aug 5, 1857

[Deseret] Brigham Young declares martial law. This date is somewhat anomalous however. No evidence supports the claim that this declaration ever circulated during August. However, a slightly different declaration of martial law was issued and received wide circulation on September 15.

[Source: Wikipedia, Utah War, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Utah_War#Timeline_of_events]

175 years ago today - Aug 5, 1837

[Joseph Smith] The Saints in Far West agree to build a relatively modest house of the Lord, with Bishop Partridge as treasurer for the venture. Elder Goodson in England, in direct violation of Joseph's orders, reads D&C 76 publicly, "which turned the current feeling generally, and nearly closed the door in all that region." (History of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (7 volumes) 2:505.)

[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]

20 years ago today - Aug 5, 1992.

The 13th Annual Sunstone Symposium convenes in Salt Lake City with about 1,500 attendees. According to Salt Lake Tribune religion editor Peggy Fletcher Stack, who does not disclose her sources, "Several departments in the LDS Church Office Building threatened employees with dire consequences if they attended. But the Public Affairs Department sent six `observers,' as they have for years." At least one BYU faculty member, Michael Allen, is "advise[d] against" participating. Sunstone editor Elbert Peck acknowledges that some BYU faculty "chose not to participate" while others "made a point of participating" and describes the impact of the 1991 First Presidency/Council of the Twelve statement as being "to make presenters much more thoughtful and careful than they have been in the past."

[Source: Anderson, Lavina Fielding, "The LDS Intellectual Community and Church Leadership: A Contemporary Chronology," Dialogue, Vol.26, No.1]

70 years ago today - Aug 5, 1942

First Presidency's finincial secretary refers to German-born Horst Scharffs as President Heber J. Grant's bodyguard. Apparently this is first time since 1887 that hierarchy has bodyguards.

[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]

135 years ago today - Aug 4, 1877

Brigham Young obtains cancellation of his debts in Ogden, Utah, dating back to 1849.

[Source: Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower]

15 years ago today - Aug 04, 1997

Time magazine features the progress and material wealth of the Church in an article entitled "Kingdom Come."

[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]

175 years ago today - Aug 4, 1837

[Joseph Smith] Jenetta Richards, daughter of the Rev. John Richards, is the first to be confirmed in England. The ordinance is performed by Heber C. Kimball. Jenetta will later marry Dr. Willard Richards while he is on a mission, which causes a great deal of bickering among the new English converts. The Saints also dislike her because she wears nice clothes (representing the upper class). She takes to wearing her worst clothes.

[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]

120 years ago today - Aug 4, 1892

[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] At 2 P.M. we assembled again. Prests Wilfold Woodruff and Lorenzo Snow each made some remarks regarding the necessity of perfect union among the brethren of the Presidency and Apostles.

[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

180 years ago today - Aug 4, 1832

Joseph Smith says plates were 6" x 8" and thinner than tin and 6" high, 40 to 60 lbs and had the appearance of gold.

[Source: Tidd, N. R., "Mormon Chronology"]

170 years ago today - Aug 4, 1842

Nauvoo, Illinois. Joseph Smith and 15 other brethren practiced fencing with Colonel Brewer.

[Source: BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith, http://byustudies.byu.edu]

125 years ago today - Wednesday, Aug 3, 1887

[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Salt Lake City

I met my much loved kinsman Joseph F. Smith this morning for the first time in nearly five years. With what excessive Joy I took him in my arms and huged him. ...

[Source: Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith]

170 years ago today - Aug 3, 1842

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 3d Was awoke in the morning by bleeding at the nose. Bled 1 pint. Felt vary weak. Much paine in the head. Not seen a well day since I left home. Commenced business before breakfast. Continued at it untill 2 oclock. Got all goods & things on board the steem boat Rapids & Bills of Fraite made out. Got dinner. Went to bed tired & Sick enough. Left St Louis at 6 oclock PM.

[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

160 years ago today - Aug 03, 1852

Workers begin to construct a wall around Temple Square in Salt Lake City, Utah. Work on the temple itself begins in April 1853.

[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]

140 years ago today - Aug 3, 1872

Brigham Young dissolves School of Prophets in Salt Lake City and throughout Utah because of breaches in meeting's secrecy that end up in anti-Mormon SALT LAKE TRIBUNE.

[Source: Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower]

125 years ago today - Aug 2, 1887

[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] [Pages 297-342 have been removed. The last sentence on page 296 reads: "Called at Prest's office where I met Bros Cannon, Smith and others." There follows a note written in pencil on the back of page 296: "Pages 297-342 were minutes of a meeting of the Apostles & were removed at father's request Nov 24 Rachel G. Taylor." The top of page 342 is excised, leaving this conclusion to the entry:] ... One law for all is what I hope and pray for and at the same time I am anxious that in my desires to have the law carried out that I may not forget that charity and mercy is a duty I am owing to my fellows. I sometimes fear that I am lacking in charity. I do pray God for strength to do right and set an example before my children that shall be worthy for them to follow. Someday my lack of charity may come home to me in a painful manner and I shall try from this time to cultivate a more forgiving spirit.

[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

170 years ago today - Aug 2, 1842

Illinois governor Thomas Carlin, signs an order for Joseph Smith's arrest and delivery to Missouri officials to answer charges in the case of the attempted assassination of Missouri Governor Boggs.

[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]

150 years ago today - Aug 2, 1862

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 2d I spent the fore part of the day in the Endowment House. All the presidency were there. Brother Wells done the sealing. Mrs Woodruff was quite sick. I administered to her by the laying on of hands. I went to the field in the Evening. We drew 4 loads of Hay. I attended meeting with the D A & M society.

[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

150 years ago today - Aug 1, 1862

Brigham Young writes to a local bishop: "my advice is for bro james T.S. Allred to marry the Indian girl in question. It is written that 'not many generations shall pass away before they become a white and delightsome people.'" Dozens of men marry Native Americans as plural wives in pioneer Utah and Arizona.

[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]

170 years ago today - Aug 1, 1842

Apostle Parley P. Pratt publishes a rebuttal to John C. Bennett's claims that Joseph is secretly teaching polygamy: "But for the information of those who may be assailed by those foolish tales about the two wives [Bennett had written "that God had given a revelation that men might have two wives"], we would say that no such principle ever existed among the Latter-day Saints, and never will." Pratt's autobiography later states that Joseph Smith disclosed to him the revelation on celestial marriage in Jan 1840.

[Source: Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower]

180 years ago today - Aug 1, 1832

[Lucy Mack Smith] Jesse Gause and Zebedee Coltrin take a mission for the East. Coltrin, ill, returns on 19 August. Gause disappears; his name is replaced in church records by Frederick G. Williams.

[Source: Anderson, Lavina Fielding, Editor, Lucy's Book: A Critical Edition of Lucy Mack Smith's Family Memoir, 2001, Signature Books, http://bit.ly/lucys-book]