120 years ago today - Jan 31, 1893

[James E. Talmage] This day in an interview with Presidents [Wilford] Woodruff and [Joseph F.] Smith of the First Presidency, I was appointed to now proceed with a work before given and subsequently withdrawn. ... I am requested to prepare a work on Theology, suitable as a text-book for our church schools and other organizations. In making the appointment Pres[ident]. Woodruff gave me his blessing. I told the brethren that I would accept the appointment as a mission; with no expectation of any pecuniary reward should the work ever be published, hoping that the book would be sold more cheaply if I waived all claim to royalty in the sale. Without the blessing of the Almighty, and the support of the brethren I should shrink from even attempting such a work.

[Source: James E. Talmage, Diary]

120 years ago today - Jan 31, 1893 (Tuesday)

In the Fourth District Court, at Ogden, the cases against the following named individuals, for transgression of the Edmunds law, were dismissed on recommendation of U.S. Attorney Charles S. Varian, who gave as a reason that the evidence in these cases was insufficient to put the defendants on trial; ... [52 individuals listed] ...

[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

145 years ago today - Jan 31, 1868

[Brigham Young Sermon] Pres. Brigham Young'-spoke on the impropriety of the youth of Zion marrying instead of getting sealed. He also spoke on the cleanliness of person, before going to get their endowments; a woman should not go for a week after her menses were upon her, a man should not have intercourse with his wife for several days, but should be clean in body and exercised in spirit previous thereto; his clothing should be changed once or twice before going there.

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

15 years ago today - 1/30/1998

[Same-Sex Marriage] Capitol Resource Institutes Assistant Director Randy Thomasson sends a memo to Loren C. Dunn thanking him "for your interest in considering funding a California ballot initiative to protect marriage. I am looking forward to receiving a phone call today from Marlin Jensen,..." The memo outlines several questions and suggests that a ballot initiative in California "will greatly increase the chances of winning in Hawaii, and will protect California at the same time. A California initiative would divert and dry up the sizable national resources of the opposition." It further suggests that if $1 million is spent to qualify an initiative for the ballot in California, gay-rights activists would throw away $10 million in a losing battle to fight it. "For these reasons, as well as the reasons outlined in my previous correspondence, I believe it would be very worthwhile and helpful to Hawaii (as well as California and the nation) for LDS leadership to fund a ballot initiative in California." Andy Pugno writes letter to BYU Prof Lynn Wardle on State Senator Pete Knight's letterhead asking Wardle to review the text for the proposed Prop 22 language. Specifically, Pugno asks if it's better to use "one man and one woman" or "a man and a woman" and also asks, "Is there a better way to draft the text of this initiative,

[Source: Mormons for Marriage: A Prop 8 Timeline, http://mormonsformarriage.com/?page_id=68]

25 years ago today - Jan 30, 1988-31

Seven stakes were created in one weekend in Lima, Peru, by Elder Charles Didier of the Seventy.

[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]

100 years ago today - Jan 30, 1913

Succession of Joseph Smith III-- Historian's Library, Salt Lake City, Utah.

This is one of the few books to carry the endorsement or more properly the recommendation of the First Presidency. This however does not constitute an endorsement of the contents as doctrine or as the official viewpoint of the Church on the subject treated.

SUCCESSION OF JOSEPH III

Is Joseph III the True Successor of Joseph the Prophet in the office of President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

A DISCUSSION Written by O. A. Murdock OF BEAVER CITY, UTAH

THE DESERET NEWS Salt Lake City, Utah 3

ENDORSEMENT

The undersigned take pleasure in recommending this book to the consideration of all who are interested in the subject on which it treats. We approve of its contents, after having carefully examined it, and we hope it will have the effect intended by the writer. He presents his arguments from a legal standpoint and in a somewhat different manner from anything of the kind which has heretofore been attempted. JOSEPH F. SMITH, ANTHON H. LUND, CHARLES W. PENROSE, First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

January 30, 1913 {1913-January 30-Title page and endorsement from book. Church}

[Source: Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]

25 years ago today - Jan 29, 1988

The Utah Board of Pardons deliberates 27 minutes and decides not to grant a parole or rehearing date for forger/murderer Mark Hofmann. The decision by the board virtually guarantees that Hofmann will spend the rest of his life behind bars. Although the board had suggested earlier that Hofmann serve only seven years as part of a plea bargain through which authorities hoped to learn all the details of Hofmann's extraordinarily complex case they change their mind, according to Board Chair Victoria Palacios, because of the "large number of [Hofmann's] victims" and his "callous disregard for human life"

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

120 years ago today - Jan 29, 1893

[Francis M. Lyman] [Letter to Brigham Young Jr. and George Teasdale:] I was instructed by Pres[ident] Lorenzo Snow and the Quorum to extend to you and Elder George Teasdale a request to met with us at our next quorum meeting which will convene at 2 P.M. on the 21st day of March next in our room in the Temple. At that time we shall continue our meetings together from day to day as long as it shall be considered necessary to fully prepare ourselves for our labors at the dedication of the Temple on April 6, 1893 ... It will be a joyful time to see all our quorum together again.

[Source: Francis M. Lyman, Diary]

150 years ago today - Jan 29, 1863

[Civil War] The most significant clash between federal troops and Indians took place on 29 January 1863, in what has become known as the Battle of Bear River or the Massacre at Bear River. Connor's force of 300 troops attacked a Shoshoni encampment on the Bear River and killed more than 250 men, women, and children. They also burned the village and thus broke the strength of the Indians in the area.

[Source: Utah History Encyclopedia: Civil War, http://www.media.utah.edu/UHE/c/CIVILWAR.html]

25 years ago today - Jan 28, 1988

Early in the morning, on the Singer-Swapp compound in Marion, Utah, officers with dogs hide in a nearby building and wait for Addam Swapp to start his morning chores. Emerging at about 8:30 a.m., Swapp and his brother Jonathan are surprised by the hidden lawmen. During the gun battle, Addam Swapp is wounded and police officer Fred House was killed. The remaining family members in the Singer home surrender and the thirteen-day siege which began when Addam Swapp bombed a nearby LDS stake house ends.

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

115 years ago today - Jan 28, 1898; Friday

Elder Heber J. Grant returned from Chicago [Illinois] this afternoon, where he had been to endeavor to raise funds on his Theatre stock security, in which he had not yet succeeded.

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

120 years ago today - Jan 28, 1893 (Saturday)

The Beehive house, formerly the property of Pres. Brigham Young, was sold at public auction in Salt Lake City.

[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

170 years ago today - Late Jan. 1843

[Joseph Smith] A group of young people gather at Heber C. Kimball's home. Their "loose style of morals" was made evident because they wasted time with "too frequent attendance at balls, parties, etc." Elder Kimball offers to give them some instruction. Soon they begin meeting regularly. This leads to the formation of the "Young Gentlemen and Ladies Relief Society," a forerunner of future Church youth organizations.

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

170 years ago today - Jan 28, 1843

[Joseph Smith] Joseph plays ball with the brethren. The city council approves paying him $500 a year as mayor and $3 a day when he sits as justice of the municipal court.

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

180 years ago today - Jan 28, 1833

John Taylor: Married Leonora Cannon 28 January 1833 in Toronto. Four children: George John, Mary Ann, Joseph James, and Leonora Agnes.

[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]

5 years ago today - Jan 27, 2008

President Gordon B. Hinckley, the longest-lived president in the history of the Church who served as president for nearly 13 years, died in Salt Lake City at age 97.

[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]

115 years ago today - Jan 27, 1898; Thursday

[George Q.] Cannon desired the mind of the Council as to the course he should pursue. The sentiment expressed was that the Saints never expected to be so mixed up with the gentiles as circumstances had led them into, but that the United Order would be established and our financial affairs regulated thereby; also that success could not be expected until that system should prevail among the Saints. However, it was conceded that under the present laws of the land, it would not be possible to establish that order, but that a change might come when it would be practicable. The result of the conversation was, that the sense of the meeting was that Pres. Cannon should accept the invitation to meet the President of the Chamber of Commerce, and do what he could in the direction indicated.

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

130 years ago today - Jan 27, 1883

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] There was an incident took place to day I Consider worthy of record. As the Meeting house was not large Enough to hold all the people some 15 deacons gave up their seats to others, and they went and got axes & surrounded President George Teasdales wood pile of several Cords, & Cut it all up into Stove wood. They then went and done the Same by some half a dozen widows in the place. Also Cut up the wood pile of one of the Deacons who had met with an accident so he Could not Cut his wood and they Continued through the day in that Employment and if other Deacons who are young men would follow their Example it would help many of the Needy. When Br Teasdale arived home to his surprise He found all his wood pile missing, but was much pleased to find it all Cut up and nicely piled up in his wood shead. God bless such Deacons.

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

140 years ago today - Jan 27, 1873

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] /I met in Council with the school of the prophets./

[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 - Jan 26, 1913 (Sunday)

A Latter-day Saint Sunday school at Ipswitch, England, was broken into by an infuriated mob, and a scene of great disorder and violence followed.

[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

110 years ago today - Jan 26, 1903

[Smoot Hearings] William M. Paden and seventeen others formally submit complaint regarding seating [Apostle] Reed Smoot as U.S. Senator from Utah.

[Source: Paulos, Michael Harold (editor), The Mormon Church on Trial: Transcripts of the Reed Smoot Hearings, http://www.amazon.com/Mormon-Church-Trial-Transcript-Hearings/dp/156085152X?ie=UTF8tag=mormonchronic-20link_code=btlcamp=213689creative=392969]

175 years ago today - Jan 26, 1838

[Word of Wisdom] Oliver Cowdery drinks tea three times a day in winter for his health. David and John Whitmer drink tea and coffee--do not consider them hot drinks.

[Source: Kenny, Scott, Saints Without Halos, Mormon History 1830-1844, Word of Wisdom, http://www.saintswithouthalos.com/n/wow.phtml]

175 years ago today - Jan 26, 1838

In Far West, apostles Thomas B. Marsh and David W. Patten, and the high council reject David and John Whitmer, W. W. Phelps as presidents of Zion and arrange for neighborhood meetings on the case.

[Source: Kenny, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml]

25 years ago today - Jan 25, 1988

Polygamist researcher and author Ogden Kraut goes into the Singer-Swapp compound during a standoff with law-enforcement officers. Kraut is chosen because he is respected by both the Singer-Swapps and by law enforcement. Addam Swapp tells Kraut he had received a revelation that John Singer was going to be resurrected and that the setting in order of the Church, state, and nation would begin at the Singer farm. He says that a confrontation with the law is inevitable, and that there would be some bloodshed. Three days later Officer Fred House is killed during a siege which ends the standoff.

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

100 years ago today - Jan 25, 1913

DESERET NEWS favorably reviews "One Hundred Years of Mormonism," first commercial film about Mormons made with cooperation of church officials. The 6-reel, 90 minute silent film features one of Brigham Young's grandsons in role of his grandfather. During Joseph F. Smith's presidency, Hollywood produces other silent features which portray Mormonism less favorably: "A Trip to Salt Lake City" (1905), "The Mountain Meadows Massacre" (1912), "The Mormon" (1912), "Deadwood Dick Spoils Brigham Young" (1915), Cecil B. DeMille's "A Mormon Maid" (1917), and "The Rainbow Trail" (1918).

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

120 years ago today - Jan 25, 1893

[President Wilford Woodruff Journal] 25 I visited the [Salt Lake] Temple with Brother [Joseph] F Smith & Br Winder. We addressed the workmen And urged them to finish the Temple by the 6 of April. I said if I lived & Could stand on my feet I expected to go into that Temple & dedicate it on the 6 of next April.

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

120 years ago today - Wednesday, Jan 25, 1893

[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Salt Lake City

Joseph F. Smith sealed Augusta Winters to [Heber] J. Grant [2nd wife].

[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]

125 years ago today - Jan 25, 1888

David Whitmer: Died 25 January 1888 at Richmond, Ray County, Missouri.

[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]

140 years ago today - Jan 25, 1873 (Afternoon)

[Brigham Young Sermon] .... He asked them if they were willing from that time forth to seek with all their might, means, and ability to build up the kingdom of God upon the earth, and feel that hence forth it shall be the kingdom of God or nothing, and not build up the cities of the Gentiles, but labor for Zion. They all assented. Then Pres Young said if you are willing to do this, press and to let God dictate you thro his Servants, enter into covenant with him this day, and witness before him by raising the right hand up to the square. They all did so. Now there was a power and a solemnity about this covenant which seems to be felt by the entire Elders assembled, and every organization of the Holy Priesthood was represented from the first Presidency down.

[Source: Diary of Charles Lowell Walker. Andrew Karl Larson, ed. Logan: Utah State University Press, 1980. 359-360 as quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009)]

145 years ago today - Jan 24, 1868

[Brigham Young Sermon] Afternoon I attended the school of the Prophets. Speeches were made By Brigham Young, H. C. Kimball, Orson Hyde, John Taylor, & Wilford Woodruff'- President Young read the revelation and said that there had been so much Change in time that we do not know the Exact time that was the seventh day. President Young made many remarks upon various subjects. -- Salt Lake City [Wilford WoodruffÂ's Journal. 9 Vols. Scott G. Kenney, ed. Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1983-85. 6:389-391]

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

150 years ago today - Jan 24, 1863

Brigham Young (aged 61) marriage to Amelia Folsom (1838-1910) (aged 24) first marriage Rumoured to be Brigham's favorite wife.

[Source: Wikipedia, List of Brigham Young's Wives, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Brigham_Young%27s_wives]

150 years ago today - Jan 24, 1863

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 24 I spent most of the day in the Endowment House. We gave Endowments to 27. B. Young sealed 10 Couple. W. Woodruff sealed 10 Couple. <I think President Young took a wife 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]

165 years ago today - Jan 24, 1848

[Deseret] nine members of the discharged Mormon Battalion were at Sutter's Mill in California when gold was discovered.

[Source: History to Go, Pioneers and Cowboys, http://historytogo.utah.gov/timeline/pioneersandcowboys.html]

180 years ago today - Jan 24, 1833

The School of the Prophets commences in accordance with revelation of Dec. 27, 1832. One participant writes, "Much instruction received by the gift of tongues and the interpretation thereof. . . .[T]he science we engaged in for the winter was English grammar, of which we obtained a general knowledge."

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

95 years ago today - Jan 23, 1918

Elder Hyrum Mack Smith, eldest son of President Joseph F. Smith, passes away unexpectedly. His death is one of the events setting the stage for President Smith's vision of the redemption of the dead in October of the same year.

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

165 years ago today - Jan 23, 1848

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] In the lecture given by Professor [Orson] Pratt He intirely overthrows many of the systems of modern Phylosiphers & Asstronomiers & modern reasoning in many respects to overthrow the gentile christian Argument "that God made the Heavens sun, moon, & stars And the earth & all that in them are out of nothing in six days. He said that it was admitted by modern Phylosophers that stars had been discoverd through telescopes so remote from the earth that it would take thirty thousand years for the light of it to reach this earth though it should travel at the rate of two hundred thousand miles per second. So it must have been in exhistance 24,000 years before this earth was formed...

In speaking of the spirit of God He remarked to me that the Holy Spirit that was through all things, and round about all things, & that governed & controlled all things are intelligent atoms the same as God is composed of. Hence it is called the spirit of God, & he had no dobt but that there were some of these Atoms combined in all the mineral, vegitable, & animal Kingdoms & by the aid of those intelligent atoms were enabled to abide the law by which they were governed...

[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 - Jan 23, 1843

[Joseph Smith] Joseph publishes in the Wasp that he is revolted by the idea of having anything to do with politics, and that he wishes only to be left alone to attend to the spiritual affairs of the Church.

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

180 years ago today - Jan 23, 1833

On the second day of the "conference of High Priests" in Kirtland "Conference opened with prayer by the President [Joseph Smith] and after much speaking, praying and singing, all done in tongues, proceeded to washing hands, faces [and] feet in the name of the Lord, as commanded of God, each one washing his own, after which the President girded himself with a towel and again washed the feet of all the Elders, wiping them with the towel. His father presenting himself, the President asked of him a blessing before he would wash his feet, which he obtained by the laying on of his father's hands pronouncing upon his head that he should continue in his Priest[']s office until Christ come."

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

180 years ago today - Jan 23, 1833 (Tuesday)

[Joseph Smith Sermon] ... The president said, after he had washed the feet of the Elders, as I have done, so do ye, wash ye therefore one anothers feet, pronouncing at the same time through the power of the Holy Ghost that the Elders were all clean from the blood of this generation, but that those among them who should sin willfully after they were thus cleansed and sealed up unto eternal life, should be given over unto the buffetings of Satan until the day of redemption. Having continued all day in fasting & prayer before the Lord, at the close they partook of the Lord's supper, which was blessed by the president in the name of the Lord. All ate and drank and were filled, then sang an hymn and went out.

[Source: The Woodland Institute, http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]

180 years ago today - 22-Jan 23, 1833

[Joseph Smith] Organizes School of the Prophets (see D&C 88:70-80, 117-141) at Kirtland.

[Source: Highlights in the Prophet's Life, Ensign, June 1994]

More History?

Want more LDS history? Check out Mormon-Church-History, a comprehensive chronology of church history. It is a tour through church history, covering a little bit each day through the the history of the church. About a dozen chronological entries are posted daily, gradually covering the entire history of the Mormon church over the next several years. More info can be found here: http://mormon-church-history.blogspot.com/2008/12/welcome-to-mormon-church-history.html

15 years ago today - Jan 22, 1998

Governor Pete Wilson of California accepts a copy of a new LDS video depicting the role of the Mormon Battalion in developing the state.

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

25 years ago today - Jan 22, 1988

The WASHINGTON POST reports that the filming of the CBS mini-series based on the book THE MORMON MURDERS of the Mark Hofmann murders/forgeries had been postponed due to script rewrites as a result of pressure from wealthy West Coast Mormons.

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

40 years ago today - Jan 22, 1973

[U.S. Religious History] Decided: Roe v. Wade

This landmark decision established that women have a basic right to have an abortion Through various cases, the Supreme Court developed the idea that the Constitution protects a person's to privacy, particularly when it comes to matters involving children and procreation.

[Source: Cline, Austin, History of American Religion: Timeline]

170 years ago today - Jan 22, 1843

[Joseph Smith Sermon] Sunday January 22d Preached at the Temple on the setting up of the Kingdom. [Joseph Smith Diary, by Willard Richards]

[Source: The Words of Joseph Smith by Joseph Smith by Andrew F. Ehat and Lyndon W. Cook]

170 years ago today - Jan 22, 1843

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 22d Sunday President Joseph Smith deliverd an interesting discourse at the Temple to a large congregation. ... He remarked some say the kingdom of God was not set up on earth untill the day of pentecost & that John did not preach the Baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. But I say in the name of the Lord that the kingdom of God was set upon earth from the days of Adam to the present time whenever there has been a righteous man on earth unto whom God revealed his word & gave power & authority to administer in his name ....

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

180 years ago today - Jan 22, 1833 (Tuesday)

Joseph Smith, jun., Sidney Rigdon, Frederick G. Williams, Newel K. Whitney, Hyrum Smith, Zebedee Coltrin, Joseph Smith, sen., Samuel H. Smith, John Murdock, Lyman E. Johnson, Orson Hyde, Ezra Thayer, Levi W. Hancock and William Smith assembled in conference at Kirtland, O. On this occasion the Prophet Joseph, Zebedee Coltrin and Wm. Smith spoke in tongues, "after which the Lord poured out his spirit in a miraculous manner, until all the Elders and several members, both male and female, spoke in tongues." Praises were sung to God and the Lamb, and speaking and praying in tongues occupied the conference until a late hour at night.

[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

180 years ago today - Jan 22, 1833

School of the Prophets organized in Whitney Store at Kirtland, Ohio.

[Source: Hemidakaota, "Church Chronology from 1800-2000," http://www.lds.net/forums/scripture-study-forum/12108-church-chronology-1800-2000-part-1-a.html#post214550]

60 years ago today - Jan 21, 1953

We thank you very much for your letter of January 9 reporting regarding your visit with Patriarch Smith, and giving the result of your reading of blessings. We are very happy to get the information you give us regarding the number of blessings, and to learn of the character thereof. We think you might bring to his attention the points you make regarding the closing of his blessings, and suggest that he make the faithfulness clause apply to all of the blessing, and not to insert it where he now does in a way that would permit of some interpreting that the time of resurrection is without relation to faithfulness. We also think that you might wisely suggest to him that he read some of the blessings of some of the earlier brethren in order to familiarize himself with the work of the early patriarchs of the Church. We doubt that it would be wisdom to undertake to have him correct his English. It would probably do little more than make him self-conscious and so confuse rather than help him. [see today-in-mormon-history.blogspot.com/2013/01/60-years-ago-today-jan-6-1953.html for further context]

[Source: J. Reuben Clark, for the First Presidency, Letter to Spencer W. Kimball and LeGrand Richards]

90 years ago today - Jan 21, 1923

The first stake outside the traditional Mormon cultural area was created in Los Angeles, Calif.

[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]

130 years ago today - Jan 21, 1883

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] ... J F Smith spoke upon the Priesthood & Revelation. It was a vary interesting discourse. He said God will not keep any man on Earth to preside over the Church to lead the Church of God astray. He will take him away first and all Men should sustain the Authorities of the Church or Priesthood. ...

[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 - Jan 21, 1838

Oliver Cowdery writes to his brother Warren: "When he [Joseph Smith] was there we had some conversation in which in every instance I did not fail to affirm that what I had said was strictly true. A dirty, nasty, filthy affair of his and Fanny Alger's was talked over in which I strictly declared that I had never deviated from the truth in the matter, and as I supposed was admitted by himself." In Jul of 1872 former apostle and apostate William E. McLellin wrote to Joseph Smith III : "Now Joseph I will relate to you some history, and refer you to your own dear Mother for the truth. You will probably remember that I visited your Mother and family in 1847, and held a lengthy conversation with her . . .I told her I heard that one night she missed Joseph and Fanny Alger. she went to the barn and saw him and Fanny in the barn together alone. She looked through a crack and saw the transaction!!! She told me this story too was verily true."

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

25 years ago today - Jan 20, 1988

In his letter of resignation for tenured position as full professor of history at Brigham Young University, D. Michael Quinn writes that "academic freedom merely survives at BYU without fundamental support by the institution, exists against tremendous pressure, and is nurtured only through the dedication of individual administrators and faculty members."

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

40 years ago today - Jan 20, 1973

Representing Utah, the BYU marching band performs at the inauguration of Richard M. Nixon. Additionally, thirty members of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir sing at a private devotional service at the White House.

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

170 years ago today - January 20, 1843. Friday.

[William Clayton Journal] President Joseph Preached in the Temple on the Prodigal Son and showed that it did not refer to any nation, but was me[re]ly an answer to the remark "he receiveth the sinners and eateth with them." The Temple was crowded with people.

[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]

170 years ago today - Jan 20, 1843

[Minutes, Quorum of Twelve] ... O. Pratt remarked that he had rather die than go to preach in any other standing than I had before....

Young'said all he had against Orson was when he came home he loved his wife better than David.

Joseph'She lied about me'I never made the offair [of plural marriage] which she said I did.'II will not advise you /presumably Orson/ to break up your family /divorse her/'unless it were asked of me. then I would council you to get a bill [?] from your wife and many a virtuous woman'aXnd sire'[?]'a new family but if you do not do it shall (or she ll) xxxxx [forever?] threw it in your teeth.

Joseph 'Orson, I prophesy in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ that it will not be 6 months before you leave [have?] things which will make you glad you have not left us.'

... Orson, the latter part of your life shall be more joyful than the former' 3 o clcok adjourned to President Joseph 4 o clock Orson Pratt, Sarah Marinda Pratt & lydia Granger were baptized in the River ____...

[Source: Minutes; Minutes]

170 years ago today - Jan 20, 1843

[Joseph Smith Diary] ... Joseph told his dream in council[:] I dreamed this morning that I was in the Lobby of the Representative House at Springfield when some of the members who did not like my being there began to mar and cut and pound my shins with pieces of Iron. I bore it as long as I could, then Jumped over the rail into the hall, caught a rod of Iron and went at them cursing and swearing at them in the most awful manner and drove them all out of the house. I went to the door and told them to send me a clerk and I will /would/ make some laws that would do good. There was quite a collection around the /State/ house trying to raise an army to take me and there were many horses tied around the square. I thought they would not have the privilege of getting me so I took a rod of Iron and mowed my way through their way /ranks/, looking after their best race horrse thinking they might catch me when the[y] could find me when I was awoke.

To dream of flying signifies prosperity and deliverence from Enemies. Swimming in deep water signifies success among Many people. The word will be accompanied with power. Told Elder Hyde when he spoke in the name of the Lord, it should prove true, but do not curse the people.

Prophecy in the name of the Lord God. [Joseph said,] "As soon as we get the temple built so that we will not be obliged to exhaust our means. Thereon we will have means to gather the saints by thousands and tens of thousands."

Elder Hyde told of the excellent white wine he drank in the east [Palestine]. Joseph prophesied in the name of the Lord that he would drink wine with him in that country. Joseph [said], "From the 6th day of April next, I go in for preparing with all present for a Mission through the United States and when we arrive at Maine we will take ship for England and so on to all countries where we are a mind for to go." P[r]e[se]nt: H[yrum] Smith, B[righam] Young, H[eber] C. Kimball, Orson Hyde, Orson Pratt, John Taylor, W[ilford] Woodruff, Geo[rge] A. Smith, [and] W[illard] Richards.

[Joseph said,] "We must write for John E. Page. We must love the whole Quorum. We must send Kings and Queens to Nauvoo and we will do it. We must all start from this place. Let the 12 [Apostles] be called in on the 6th of April and a notice be given for a special conference on the platform on [the] House of the Lord. We are sure to go as we live till spring. If I live I [will] take these b[r]ethren through these United States and through the world. I will make just as big a wake as God Almighty will let me."

/4 P.M./ Baptized Orson Pratt and wife and Lydia Granger and confirmed them. Ordained Orson to all the authority of his former office.

[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1842-43, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]

180 years ago today - January the 20th 1833

[Hyrum Smith Journals] I Hyrum Smith BaptiseD two in to the visiBle Church of Christ in <the> Beautiful waters of Kirtland the S[c]hool of Christ Began in Kirtland myself Spa[ke] with tounges anD many others ...

[Source: Hyrum Smith Journals 1832-1833, Hyrum Smith Papers, L. Tom Perry Special Collections, Harold B. Lee Library, Preliminary Transcription by H. Michael Marquardt]

60 years ago today - Jan 19, 1953

The First Presidency informs stake presidents of the need for stenographers and other office help in the missions and suggests that a few properly trained women at least twenty-one years old be called as missionaries. The previous minimum age for sister missionaries had been twenty-three.

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

85 years ago today - Jan 19, 1928

The Process of searching for Joseph & Hyrum Smith's graves begins. They were left unmarked since their secret burial in Nauvoo 1844. After locating and exhuming the bodies, they are reburied in nearby, marked graves on this day.

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

130 years ago today - Jan 19, 1883 (Friday)

The thermometer stood about 35 degrees F. below zero, in Salt Lake City.

[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

150 years ago today - Jan 19, 1863

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 19 Jan 1863 The Deserett State Legislature Met this morning in the Council House and organized. ... Govornor Young then addressed the assembly. .... All of our moves here are feared by the nations of the Earth Esspecially the United States. This body of men will give laws to the Nations of the Earth. .... Our [U.S.] Government is going to peaces and it will be like water that is spilt upon the ground that Cannot be gathered. ... the time will Come when these men will give laws to the Nations of the Earth. Joseph Smith organized this Government before in Nauvoo and He said if we done our duty we should prevail over all our Enemies. We should get all things ready & when the time Comes we should let the water onto the wheel and Start the machine in Motion. ...

[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 - Jan 19, 1843

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 19th This was also an interesting day in consequence of the return of Orson Pratt to the quorum of the Twelve. He had returned & repented in dust &

ashes, as it were for opposing Joseph & the Twelve &c. We met at Brigham Youngs the first Presidency & the Twelve & conversed over the subject & Orson Pratt desired much to return to the quorum of the Twelve. We had an interesting time together.

We then assembled at the river & Joseph the Seer went into the river from the Ice & Baptized Orson Pratt & his wife & widow Granger. Joseph confirmed them & ordaind Orson Pratt to the Apostle-ship & his former standing which caused Joy to our hearts.

Elder Amasa Lyman who had been appointed in his stead as a member of the quorum of the Twelve was taken in to the first Presidency which left the place again vacant for Orson Pratt. [Orson Pratt had been upset because his wife claimed Joseph Smith had proposed to her while he, Orson, was away on a mission]

[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 - Jan 19, 1838

[Wilford Woodruff Journal] I arose to speak & the Power of God rested upon me. I Prophesied of the judgments of God & spoke in tongues & interpeted the same.

[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 - Jan 18, 1913; Saturday

Yesterday and today, have been engaged in work at the President's office. This evening's Deseret News contains a splendid article entitled "Joseph Smith, Jr., as a Translator," by Robert C. Webb, Ph.D. The articles that have heretofore appeared in answer to the [Solomon] Spalding pamphlet have been rather in the nature of demurrers in the case. The Webb article published today meets the question and appears to be a complete reply.

11Explain that Webb was Homans's pseudonym.

[Source: James E. Talmage, Diary]

120 years ago today - Jan 18, 1893

[President Wilford Woodruff Journal] 18 Brother Joseph was with me to day. We spent an hour in the Temple. ...

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

120 years ago today - Jan 18, 1893

[L. John Nuttall] ... Woodruff & Jos[eph] F Smith in regard to the Monthly Free Will Offering Fund & they instructed me to suspend the collections for the present in consequence of the calls on the people for the completion of the Salt Lake Temple.

[Source: L. John Nuttall, Diary]

170 years ago today - Jan 18, 1843

Willard Richards is sealed to his first and second plural wives, Sarah and Nanny Longstroth.

[Source: Hales, Brian C., Joseph Smith's Polygamy: History and Theology, 2 vols., Salt Lake City: Greg Kofford Books, 2013 (www.JosephSmithsPolygamy.com)]

170 years ago today - Jan 18, 1843

[Joseph Smith Diary] January 18th 1843 Party /began to/ assembleet at the time appointed and before 12 o'clock the Jubilee songs—by Gen[eral] Law and Miss [Eliza R.] Snow were distributed by the governor of the feast to fifty individuals—the party invited ... who sung the same. Elder Taylor then read a vision from a New Orleans paper. ...

Dreamed that a sheriff came after me [Joseph]. A man put a musket in my hand and told me to keep him [the sheriff]. I took the musket and walked around him. When he went to go away, I would push him back and if others came to trouble him I would keep them off.

... Joseph stated that this was not only a Jubilee but commemoration of his marriage to Emma. Just 15 [16] years this day. ...

[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1842-43, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]

55 years ago today - Jan 17, 1958

[David O. McKay diary, Jan. 17, 1958; emphasis in original] ... I told Brother [Wendell B.] Mendenhall that the First Presidency had approved of his suggestion that a white cloth moccasin for use as footwear in the New Zealand [temple] be made. This will overcome the problem of fitting the feet of the native people. The Temple Committee is to be authorized to go ahead with the project. Although Brother Mendenhall had advised that we have a stretchtype moccasin, the Brethren of the First Presidency chose a terry cloth moccasin.

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

115 years ago today - Ca. January 17-Mar 2, 1898

[George Q. Cannon] I have been desirous to see some of the city council in relation to the franchise to be granted to the Union Light and Power Company, and the following members came to the office today: Arthur Barnes, John Allen, E. M. Weiler and Henry Wallace. I explained to them with some detail what we were aiming to accomplish, and set before them our situation and how desirable it was that our brethren in the city council should recognize what we were doing, and not treat us as a foreign corporation.

I afterwards spoke to them about the Arthur Pratt businessâ€"not so much that either as to bring to their attention the necessity of union; that it was a city council of thirteen Mormons and two Gentiles and that the Latter-day Saints would be blamed for everything that was not right and therefore they ought to act in harmony and not as partisans.

Arthur Barnes made the remark that they were elected as Democrats, on a Democratic ticket. I dwelt on that and showed that they should be latter-day Saints first, above all things. I told them that if they divided and pulled against each other, as they had started out to do, they would bring themselves into discredit. I talked with exceeding plainness to these brethren, as did President [Wilford] Woodruff also.

I fear that this conversation will not effect any great change in their feelings, but we shall have given them our views, and if they do not act upon them they will be without excuse. In parting with them I told them, as a servant of God, that they would always be safe in following the counsels of the servants of the Lord.

[Source: George Q. Cannon, Diary]

140 years ago today - Jan 17, 1873

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 17 /& 18/ I Spent this day getting out a synopsis of my Journals for the last 28 years.

[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 - Jan 17, 1853

[Hosea Stout Diary] Monday 17 Jan 1853. Strolling around the city viewing the wonderful State of society. The Stores, the groceries churches, gambling houses, Houses of ill fame, Hotels, Hawkers, brokers, Bankers Law offices and innumerable other establishments all mingled and all mixed & inter mixed with every degree of compound, as though all classes and grades of society were of one heart and mind & in full fellowship with each other and all trades, professions, misteries and occupations were equally honorable.

[Source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

170 years ago today - Jan 17, 1843

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 17th This was an interesting day. A day that was appointed by general procklamation for humiliation fasting & Prayer & thanksgiving for the release & delivery we had received. Meetings were appointed in each ward throughout the city.

I met at President Joseph Smith's & we had an interesting time. Br Joseph spoke to some length on the kingdom of God & the Baptism of John. He said the kingdom of God was set upon the earth in all ages from the days of Adam to the presant time whenever there was a man on earth who had authority to Administer the ordinances of the gospel or a priest of God & unto such a man God did reveal his will concerning the Baptism of John. It was the Baptism of repentance unto the remission of sins for the receiving of the Holy Ghost & it was the gospel Baptism. These were questions which had been in debate for many years & in some degree among the Saints.

He also spoke upon the subject of honor & dishonor &c. Many prayers & exhertations were made. I spoke twice & felt much of the spirit of the Lord & had an interesting time.

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

25 years ago today - Jan 16, 1988

Addam Swapp, son-in-law of deceased Fundamentalist John Singer, uses 87 sticks of dynamite to bomb LDS stake center in Kamas, Utah. He leaves behind an Indian-like spear, with an attached noted bearing the date "Jan. 18, 1979," (the date of John Singer's death at the hand of law enforcement officers) stuck into a baseball diamond near the church. This begins several-week stand-off between this polygamous clan and law enforcement officers. This results in even more cooperation between law enforcement and Mormon Fundamentalists, who repudiate Singer family's actions and seek peaceful solution. One lawman dies in arresting family.

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

30 years ago today - Jan 16, 1983

Ending policy of 132 years and six months, DESERET NEWS (of which Counselor Hinckley is senior director) begins printing Sunday edition.

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

40 years ago today - Jan. 16-25, 1973

[George F. RIchards Jr.] One of the practices in the temple when I first went to the temple was that you were expected to make a donation as you went in the door to help temple work. That was eliminated later. I don't remember a time when to my knowledge it wasn't customary to allow a certain amount of money for the indigent people who would spend their time in the temple, going through for the dead for endowment work. It used to be fifty cents for a man or fifty cents for a woman, I think. Then people like my father who didn't often have the privilege of going through the temple paid a lot of folks for doing that kind of service for them. It helped some of the elderly people to live, to have groceries to eat and places to rent.

[Source: Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, George F. Richards Jr. oral history, Jan. 16-25, 1973; p. 58, excerpt in Buerger Papers http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]

70 years ago today - Jan 16, 1943

Instructions relative to conducting of dances or socials under the auspices of the Church organizations in the stakes and missions of the Church. The instructions were designed to reach at least two main goals: (1) To provide wholesome recreation for the membership of the Church under controlled conditions meeting Church standards. Admission to these Church recreational functions was to be by ticket only, to be issued by Bishops or Branch Presidents. Provisions were made for the issuance of guest tickets by the Bishop to those who "are of high moral character and capable of maintaining Church standards." (2) To provide wholesome recreation for L.D.S. servicemen at the ward or branch nearest their duty station.

[Source: Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]

120 years ago today - Jan 16, 1893

[President Wilford Woodruff Journal] 16 ... J. [Joseph] F. Smith had a tumor taken from his oldest daughter. Weighed 20 lbs.

[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 - Jan 16, 1843 (Monday)

The ship Swanton sailed from Liverpool with 212 Saints for New Orleans, led by Lorenzo Snow. The emigrants arrived at Nauvoo April 12th.

[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

175 years ago today - Jan 16, 1838

In Dublin, Indiana, Joseph Smith "destitute of money" says to Brigham Young, "You are one of the Twelve who have charge of the kingdom in all the world; I believe I shall throw myself upon you, and look to you for counsel in this case." Brigham Young helps "Brother Tomlinson" sell his farm and Joseph "got three hundred dollars from Brother Tomlinson, which enabled me to pursue my journey."

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

25 years ago today - Jan 15, 1988

The First Presidency renews the call for all Church members to be active in volunteer service and political, governmental, and community leadership.

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

70 years ago today - Jan 15, 1943

No Church auxiliary organization meeting during war except by special permission ... [d]ue to wartime restrictions on gas and rubber ... except by special permission of the First Presidency.

[Source: Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]

130 years ago today - Monday, Jan 15, 1883

[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Manchester

I met with the Elders and gave them some instruction in regard to their duties, explained to them how to confirm and confer the priesthood and how to ordain and set apart. I warned them against women and to be always upon their guard.

[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]

165 years ago today - Jan 15, 1848

[Hosea Stout Diary] President Young went to the Tabernacle today to a feast called the Jubelee.

[Source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

175 years ago today - Jan 15, 1838

[Wilford Woodruff Journal] ... while [Elder Ball] was speaking to our edification a canon or swivvle was discharged near the house on the sea shore and was soon followed by the discharge of small arms.

He soon closed and I arose. The spirit of God rested upon me. I declared the word of God to the people in great plainness. My words were at times mixed with the report of musketry that were echoing outside of the house. I was Plain in declairing to the people the judgments of God. I shook my garments in the presens of the people & informed them that I was clear of their Blood. I asked if any wished to receieve the gospel & two arose to Be Baptized. We closed the meeting after the evening had borne its report to heaven we blessed three children of Br Sterrett's and spent the night with him. <Distance> 4 miles.

[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 - Jan. 15-16, 1838

[Joseph Smith] The printing press in Kirtland, formerly owned by the Church but attached for debt payment in December, burns down. Those loyal to Joseph blame the apostates. The apostates, of course, blame those loyal to Joseph.

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

130 years ago today - Jan 14, 1883

Apostle John Henry Smith preaches in England: "I spoke upon the history of Joseph Smith and also upon the baptism for the dead and also upon the doctrine of plural marriage, stating that we do not teach that principal in England as it is contrary to the law." At the time plural marriage was also contrary to U.S. law.

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

60 years ago today - Wed Jan 14, 1953

[David O. McKay Office Journal] 8 a.m.--Met by appointment Brother Henry D. Moyle and Harold B. Lee, concerning political matters. In Wyoming an effort is being made to pass a law legalizing gambling and permitting the placing of slot machines in public places. Governor Miller has appealed to Bishop Don P. Fowler of Cheyenne, suggesting that the bishops ask their members to write to the legislature protesting against it. The brethren were agreed that this is the kind of case where we can express our views. It was decided when I reported that matter at the meeting of the First Presidency to call the Stake Presidents in Wyoming by phone asking them to request their bishops to be active in protesting against it.

[Source: McKay, David O., Office Journal]

30 years ago today - Jan 14, 1983

[Mark Hofmann] Elwyn Doubleday sells the Lounsbery Collection of Letters to William Thoman. Hofmann will claim he purchased the Harris 1830 letter from Thoman in March 1982. Police later show that this Doubleday sale to Thoman occurred on 14 January 1983.

[Source: 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,]

40 years ago today - Jan 13, 1973

Taiwan Mission President Malan R. Jackson baptizes the first Mongolian covert, Wu Rung Fu, in Taipei, Taiwan.

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

120 years ago today - Jan 13, 1893

[Francis M. Lyman] Pat Lanan s request to see the Presidency, to get assurances from them as to whether gentiles and particularly our enemies would receive fair treatment if Utah is admitted as a state in the union.

It was decided on motion of Pres[ident] [George Q.] Cannon as follows: "I move that these brethren, F[rancis]. M. Lyman and John Henry Smith be authorized to say to Mr. Lannan for the Presidency and Apostles that we are willing to make and pledge which honorable men could be asked to give, or honorable men be willing to receive that whatever influence we may have will always be exerted in favor of the equal rights of all classes of citizens before the law. and that we feel fully warranted in giving the strongest pledge that no non Mormon whatever his past attitude towards the Mormon people may have been shall ever be disturbed in his person of business in any way whatever in the event of our territory being admitted into the Union."

Armed with a copy of the above with Bro[ther] Smith and B[isho]p [Hiram B.] Clawson met Mr. Lannan in ZCMI office and deliberately talked the situation over. Lannon was not satisfied with the above so concluded to formulate a list of questions to be answered concerning the "Kingdom of God," which he will let us have later on. He says statehood is coming and no mistake and he and his friends are very much frightened. He says they will pack up their means and get out of the country.

We reported to Pres[iden]ts Cannon & [Joseph F.] Smith the result of the interview. They were pleased.

[Source: Francis M. Lyman, Diary]

140 years ago today - Jan 13, 1873

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] I attended the School of the Prophets in the Evening at the City Hall.

[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 - Jan 13, 1843

[Joseph Smith Diary] ... Then went to Bro[ther] W[illia]m Marks to see Sophia who was sick. Heard her relate the vision or dream of a visit from her two brothers who were dead-Touching the associations and relations of another world.

[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1842-43, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]

175 years ago today - Jan 13, 1838

[Lucy Mack Smith] Luke Johnson arrests Joseph Sr. for performing a marriage without proper authority but also helps him escape. Joseph Sr. hides at Oliver Snow's for two or three weeks.

[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]

175 years ago today - Jan 13, 1838-March 3

LaRoy Sunderland, Methodist minister and editor of Zion's Watchman, publishes "Mormonism Exposed and Refuted" in New York. In April Parley P. Pratt responds with "Zion's Watchman Unmasked, and its Editor, Mr. L. R. Sunderland, Exposed: Truth Vindicated: the Devil Mad, and Priestcraft in Danger!"

[Source: Kenny, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml]

180 years ago today - Jan 13, 1833-14

Hyrum Smith and Orson Hyde write the bishopric of Zion ... objecting to their "accusing Brother Joseph in rather an indirect way of seeking after monarchial power and authority."

[Source: Kenny, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml]

120 years ago today - Jan 12, 1893

[Apostle Marriner W. Merrill Diary] Thursday. I am feeling better this morning. Went to President's office to meeting with Twelve and First Presidency where matters relating to Apostle Thatcher's recent campaign speeches were discussed as not being with the Presidency in sentiment and feelings. After a 6-hour meeting I moved that we all forgive one another and hereafter work in harmony with the First Presidency; seconded and carried unanimously.

[Source: Notes from the Miscellaneous Record Book, 1886-1906: Selected diary notes from the journal books of Marriner Wood Merrill, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

175 years ago today - Jan 12, 1838

[Joseph Smith Diary] January 12 Revelation Given at the French Farm in Kirtland, Geagua /Geauga/ Co[unty], Ohio In the presence of J[oseph] Smith, Jr., S[idney] Rigdon, V[inson] Knight, and Geo[rge] W. Robinson, January 12th 1838.

When inquiry was made of the Lord relative to the trial of the First Presidency of the Church of Christ of Latter Day Saints, For transgressions according to the item of law found in the Book of [Doctrine and] Covenants, 3rd Section, 37th Verse [1835 ed.], Whether the descesion [decision] of such an Council of one Stake Shall be conclusive for Zion and all her stakes.

"Thus Saith the Lord, Let the First Presidency of my Church be held in full fellowship in Zion and all her Stakes untill they Shall be found transgressors by Such an High Council as is named in the above alluded Section in Zion by three witnesses standing against each member of Said Presidency. And these witnesses Shall be of long and faithfull standing and Such also as cannot be impeached by other witnesses before such Council.

"And when a descision is had by such an Council in Zion, it shall only be for Zion. It shall not a/n/swer for her stakes, but if such descision be acknowledged by the Council of her Stakes, then it shall answer for her Stakes, But if it is not acknowledged by the stakes, then such Stake may have the privilege of hearing for themselves or if such descision shall be acknowledeged by a majority of the stakes, then it shall answer for all her Stakes.

"And again, The Presidency of my Church may be tried by the Voice of the whole body of the Church in Zion and the voice of a majority of all her Stakes.

"And again, Except a majority is had by the Voice of the Church of Zion and a majority of all her Stakes, The Charges will be concidered not sustained. And in order to sustain such Charge or Charges, before such Church of Zion or her Stakes, such witnesses must be had as is named above, that is the witnesses to each President, who are of long and faithfull standing, that cannot be immpeached by other witnesses before the Church of Zion or her Stakes.

"And all this saith the Lord because of wicked and asspiring men. Let all your doings be in meekness and in humility before me. Even so. Amen."



Revelation Given the same day, January 12th 1838

Upon an inquiry being made of the Lord whether any branch of the Church of Christ of Latter Day Saints can be concidered a Stake of Zion untill they have acknowledged the authority of the First Presidency by a vote of such Church.

"Thus saith the Lord, Verrily I Say unto You, Nay. No Stake shall be appointed except by the First Presidency and this Presidency be acknowledged by the voice of the same, otherwise it shall not be counted as a Stake of Zion.

"And again, except it be dedicated by this Presidency, it cannot be acknowledged as a Stake of Zion. For unto this End have I appointed them in Laying the foundation of and establishing my Kingdom. Even so. Amen."



Revelation Given the same day, January 12th 1838

"Thus Saith the Lord, let the Presidency of my Church take their families as soon as it is practicable and a door is open for them and moove to the west as fast as the way is made plain before their faces. And let their hearts be comforted for I will be with them.

"Verrily I Say unto you, the time has come that your labors are finished in this place for a season. Therefore arise and get yourselves into a land which I Shall Show unto you, Even a land flowing with milk and honey. You are clean from the blood of this people. And wo unto those who have become your enimies, who have professed my name, Saith the Lord, for their Judgement lingereth not and their damnation Slumbereth not. Let all your faithfull friends arise with their families also and get out of this place and gather themselves together unto Zion and be at peace among yourselves O ye inhabitants of Zion, or their shall be no saf[e]ty for you. Even so. Amen."



It hap[pe]ned about these times that some excitement was raised in the adjoining Counties, that is Ray and Clay, against us in consequence of the sud[d]en departure of these wicked character[s] of the apostates from this Church into that vicinity repor[t]ing false stories and statements, but when they come to hear the other side of the question their feeling[s] were all allayed upon that subject especially.

The emigration to this land is verry extensive and numerous. Some few are troubled with the ague and fever. The First Presidency are chiefly engaged in counciling and settling the emigrants to this land. The Prophets' [prophecies] are fulfilling very fast upon our heads and in our day and generation. They are gathering from the North, and from the South, from the East, and from [the] West unto Zion for safety against the day of wrath which Is to be poured out without mixture upon this generation according to the prophets.

[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1838, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]

175 years ago today - (Fri) Jan 12, 1838

Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon fled Kirtland, on horseback to escape possible arrest there. Before leaving, the prophet dictates a revelation "concerning the trying of the First Presidency" which requires three unimpeachable witnesses and ratification of the decision by a majority of the church's stakes.

[Source: Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]

175 years ago today - Jan 12, 1838

[Black LDS History] Elder Joseph T. Ball begins first mission,

[Source: http://www.xtimeline.com/events.aspx?q=Bif200802111550260291166]

30 years ago today - Jan 11,1983

[Utah] Second counselor Gordon B. Hinckley pays document dealer Mark Hofmann $15,000 for alleged Joseph Smith letter about his treasure digging activities. He has Hofmann agree not to mention the transaction to anyone else and then he sequesters document in First Presidency's vault. First Presidency does not acknowledge its existence until Los Angeles Times is about to release story about document, which Hofmann later admits he forged.

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

30 years ago today - Jan 11, 1983

Elder LeGrand Richards dies.

[Source: Wikipedia, 20th Century (Mormonism), http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century_(Mormonism)]

100 years ago today - Jan 11, 1913; Saturday

In attendance at the President's Office during the greater part of the day. In the evening attended meeting of the Correlation Committee. This Committee consists of two members from each of the auxilliary organizations and has been created to consider the matter of correlation of work in the various organizations.

[Source: James E. Talmage, Diary]

120 years ago today - Jan 11, 1893

[Apostle Marriner W. Merrill Diary] ... It was also decided to meet again as a Quorum on Tuesday, March 21st, in the Salt Lake Temple in a room set apart for the Twelve. It was decided that the Twelve furnish their own room, which would probably cost $2,000.00. The Twelve then went to the Temple and viewed it all through. I then came to my room tired and sick after fasting all day.

[Source: Notes from the Miscellaneous Record Book, 1886-1906: Selected diary notes from the journal books of Marriner Wood Merrill, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

150 years ago today - Jan 11, 1863

[Brigham Young Sermon] President Young preached in the Afternoon. He read the Vision given to Joseph Smith & Sidney Rigdon then He preached upon it. He spoke of the various glories & the different Characters who would occupy them. He said all Children who died in childhood would go to the Celestial kingdom and their Mothers if they do not keep the Celestial law will not go where there children are & will never see them again. But the Children will be given to others. He said many interesting things.

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

170 years ago today - Jan 11, 1843

[Brigham Young] January 11, 1843-- The Quorum of the Twelve wrote a proclamation to the Saints, to observe the 17th inst. as a day of humiliation, fasting, prayer and thanksgiving for the great blessings which our Heavenly Father has conferred on us in the deliverance of our beloved president, Joseph Smith who has been honorably discharged from his arrest under the Missouri writ by the U. S. District Court of Illinois; Judge Pope presiding.

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

130 years ago today - Jan 10, 1883

[Franklin D. Richards] Labors of Auditing committee were discussed which led to altercation between Br[other]

E[rastus]. Snow & Pres[iden]t [Wilford] Woodruff about accounts & doing generally at St George [Utah] & in the Temple-decided that Br[other] E[rastus]. Snow report his own arrears in a/cs [accounts] till end of last year & that from Jan[uary] 1-1883 he have $2,500. per year.

[Source: Franklin D. Richards, Diary]

130 years ago today - Jan 10, 1883

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] Jan 10 1883 I attended the Council in the Afternoon and a vote was taken to raise the wages of Erastus Snow to $2,500 a year and that he send up his back account and it should be allowed him. <Erastus Snow answered [--] in an [excited?] [-] caused a wound that time cannot heal. It made me ache. I could not [-] he slandered [--] his eyes [-] for it.>

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

130 years ago today - Wednesday, Jan 10, 1883

[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] London

Bro. J. A. West and myself visited the British Museum and the National Art Galery. We called at the American exchange and Registered and we visited Westminster Abbey. I enjoyed myself very much. I looked over J. A. Wests accounts. Bro. Whitney saw what is claimed to be the missing link, a mixture of human and animal.

[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]

130 years ago today - Jan 9, 1883

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 9 I received 2 Letters from Roskelley & a revelation from a fals Prophet at Jackson County Mo.

[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 - Jan 9, 1843

[Joseph Smith Diary] ... While there Joseph spoke of his friends particularly his father's family in general and particularly of his brother Alvin, that he was a very handsome man. Surpassed by none but Adam and Seth and of great strength. While 2 Irishmen were fighting and one was about to gouge the others eyes, Alvin took him by his collar and breeches and threw him over the ring which had been formed to witness the fight. ...

[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1842-43, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]

60 years ago today - Jan 9, 1953

In accordance with assignment given us, we have read approximately thirty blessings given by Patriarch Eldred G. Smith from April 22nd, 1947, to the end of December 1952. We have felt that Brother Smith’s blessings are not extravagant, but are modest and inspiring, and on the whole very satisfactory. [Description of blessings with pros and suggestions for improvement]. We note that Brother Smith has given approximately forty-two hundred blessings in the period from April 22, 1947, to the last of December 1952, which is five and two-thirds years, and approximately three hundred and seventy-four what might be termed comfort blessings, which were terminated last April 16th upon receipt of a letter from the president of the Council of the Twelve. This is approximately eight hundred and twenty blessings a year, approximately sixty-eight per month, and approximately three per day for the five day week. In conclusion may we say again that we feel that the blessings of Elder Smith are safe, encouraging and inspiring to the people, and that he should be commended.

[Source: Spencer W. Kimball and LeGrand Richards, Letter to the First Presidency]

70 years ago today - Jan 9, 1943

Church Section lists non-U.S. rulers who have received Book of Mormon since Queen Victoria (1842), King Frederick VII of Denmark (1851), King Kalakaua and Queen Kapiolani of Hawaii (1877), Queen Emma of Holland (1890), King Oscar II of Sweden (1897), Emperor Matsuhito of Japan (1900), Empress Haruko of Japan (1909), Crown Prince Yoshihito (later Emperor) of Japan (1909), Queen Liliuokalani of Hawaii, King Albert and Queen Elizabeth of Belgium (1919), President Thomas G. Masaryk of Czechoslovakia (1930), Presindent Jose F. Uriburu of Argentina (1931), President Eduard Benes of Czechoslovakia (1937), and President Getulio Vargas of Brazil (1940).

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

75 years ago today - Jan 8, 1938

[President Heber J. Grant Diary] This evening at 6:30 I was at the Lion House at a banquet given in honor of George Albert Smith. ... I made brief remarks and told the joke about the two drunkards at the time George Albert Smith was sustained an apostle, one drunkard asked the other if he would like to know his opinion of the new apostle, and he said Yes, and the answer was "There are too d----d many Smiths." The other said "Do you want my opinion of your opinion: Well, it is my opinion of your opinion that the Lord doesn't give a damn for your opinion."

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

145 years ago today - Jan 8, 1868

Brigham Young, 1868-01-08, marries (aged 66) Mary Van Cott (1844-1884) (aged 23); divorced from James Thornton Cobb (son of wife no. 4); 1 child

[Source: Wikipedia, List of Brigham Young's Wives, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Brigham_Young%27s_wives]

165 years ago today - Jan 8, 1848

If I [i.e., Heber C. Kimball] want a wife & Bro[ther] Pulsipher or I has a daughter, you cannot go & make overtures to her. must first ask the one who holds the keys if I have a right to get wife & if he can get a wife, then he has no right still to go to the daughter, but to her father, & if he permits then he can ask ... this is calculated to console the feelings of women, they have lost confidence in their husbands, & men have lost confidence in the 12 because of wickedness of man. telling you how to save yourselves by not touching that that ain t your own [-] any man that comes to my house & wants my wife or my daughter[,] let him come and ask me or, I will kick his d--d [damned] ass out of the doors & then knock his teeth down his throat & God justify me in it .... Great many men & women on this side & on the other side of the river living in adultery & many go to hell unless atonement made. no woman can covenant with a man & on that covenant live with them as man & wife this always true, & I heard it from Joseph himself & my senses teach me so. I would rather that the Bre[thren] would take knifes sharp or blunt, & skin me from head to foot than be separated from the woman who has raised a large family by me, how will it look in eternity [to] see the wife one place & the children & the husband in other places. it will be a disgrace through all eternity. ...

H[eber]. C. K[imball]. one thing felt. I should be plaguily ill off to take any woman that had a husband, expect she would find out when not so well attended so that she would leave me, & if a woman leaves a good husband she will betray you.

[Source: Minutes, Quorum of Twelve]

200 years ago today - Jan 08, 1813

Albert Carrington, later a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and a Counselor in the First Presidency, is born in Royalton, Vermont.

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

120 years ago today - Jan 7, 1893 (Saturday)

Jacob P. Albertson and John G. Jorgensen were discharged from the Penitentiary [after the president of the U.S. declared amnisty for plural marriage offenses].

[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

170 years ago today - Jan 7, 1843

[Joseph Smith Diary] January 7th, Saturday 8 1/2 [A.M.] Left Judge Adams on our way to Nauvoo .... While riding Gen[eral] Law sang the following hymn [written by William Clayton]:

And are you sure the news is true?

And are you sure he's free?

Then let us join with one accord,

And have a Jubilee

Chorus

We'll have a Jubilee, My Friend

We'll have a Jubilee

With heart and voice we'll all rejoice

Because /In that/ our Prophet's free

2d

Success unto the Federal Court.

Judge Pope presiding there;

And also his associates too,

So lovely and so fair

3 Chorus

Also to our learned Councillors

We owe our gratitude

Because that they in freedom's cause

Like valiant men have stood

4 Chorus

In the defence of Innocence,

They made the truth to bear;

Reynolds and Carlin's baseness both

Did fearlessly declare

5 Chorus see [1]13, 114 page[s]

/Edwards and Butterfield and Pope

/The names of Pope and Butterfield

We'll mention with applause

Because that they like champions bold

Support the Federal Law

7 chorus

One word in praise of Thomas Ford

That Democrat so true;

He understands the people's rights

And will protect them too.

8 chorus

There is one more we wish enrol'd

Upon the Book of fame

That master spirit in all jokes

And Prentice but in name

8 chorus see P[age] 114

/12/ With warmest heart we bid good bye

to those we leave behind

The citizens of Springfield all

So courteous and so kind.

15 chorus

And now we're bound for home my friend

A bond of brothers true

To cheer the heart of those we love

In beautiful Nauvoo.

We'll have a Jubilee My friends

We'll have a Jubilee

With heart and voice we'll all rejoice

In that our Prophet's free

[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1842-43, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]

170 years ago today - Jan. 7-10, 1843

[Joseph Smith] Joseph travels back to Nauvoo after his trial. The axle on the carriage breaks and they all agree that Gov. Boggs should pay the damage. Many friends assemble to greet Joseph back in Nauvoo.

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

1813, 200 years ago this year.

The Smiths are afflicted with typhoid fever in Lebanon (NH) . Lucy says that the fever struck in 1813 for one year. During this time, Joseph Jr. underwent a grueling leg operation in which several pieces of tibia were removed without anesthetic. Soon after, he went to live with his uncle Jesse Smith in Boston. Richard L. Anderson has pointed out that Nathan Smith, the attending physician, moved from Dartmouth College to Yale University in the fall of 1813 and wrote in his 1831 memoirs that he and professor Perkins began treating cases of "typhus" in the fall of 1812. Anderson concludes that it is "highly probable" that Smith's operation took place in the winter of 1812-13.

[Source: Vogel, Dan, Early Mormon Documents, Appendix B: Chronology, 1771-1831, http://amzn.to/T5nY8w]

40 years ago today - Jan 6, 1973

Rahman Fatafitah of Beirut is first Muslim to join LDS church in Middle East. Other Muslims had been baptized in Utah decade earlier.

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

60 years ago today - Jan 6, 1953

[Spencer W. Kimball] According to assignment Elder LeGrand Richards and I read some 28 Patriarchal blessings of the Patriarch [i.e., Eldred G. Smith] covering some 6 years. We found them generally good blessings and modest and quite satisfactory.

[Source: Spencer W. Kimball, Diary]

80 years ago today - Jan 6, 1933

[Apostle George Albert Smith Journal] "I was appointed to Alpine Stake Conference but my nerves are trembling so I have been excused."

[Source: Journals of George Albert Smith]

120 years ago today - Jan 6, 1893

[President Wilford Woodruff Journal] 6 We had a Meeting with many of the Brethren & we visited the Temple and decided about the paintings on the wall. I Paid $500 to day on the Temple which made $2,000 on the Temple for 1892, & $200 on tithing which made $980.40 cts in /92.

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

180 years ago today - Jan 6, 1833

Unpublished revelation calls Frederick G. Williams "to be a councellor and scribe unto my servant Joseph." He is to consecrate his farm "for bringing forth of the revelations."

[Source: Kenny, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml]

30 years ago today - Jan 5, 1983

[Mark Hofmann] Hofmann calls G. Homer Durham, managing director of the LDS church historical department, about a letter he says he has just found. In contacting Durham, Hofmann skirts the normal Church channels for acquiring documents. Durham takes Hofmann directly to President Gordon B. Hinckley. The document is the earliest known holograph of Joseph Smith, a letter to Josiah Stowell, dated 18 June 1825. The price agreed upon is $15,000. The Church insists on establishing its authenticity.

[Source: 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,]

75 years ago today - Jan 5, 1938

Charles E. Bidamon notarizes statement that he has sold [for $50] to LDS collector Wilford Wood, Joseph Smith's "sliver piece" inscribed "Confirmo O Deus Potentissimus" and that his step-mother frequently said this medallion belonged to Joseph Smith. Comparison of this artifact with illustrations for Francis Barrett's 1801 "The Magus" verifies that this is Jupiter talisman inscribed according to instructions in Barrett's book.

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

120 years ago today - Jan 5, 1893

[Francis M. Lyman] From the Herald I read this morning that Pres[ident] Harrison. did yesterday issue his proclamation of Amnesty good for all offenses up to November 1, 1890 against the laws against Polygamy, Bigamy and unlawful cohabitation. Those who have sinned since that date or do not accept of this amnesty are to be vigorously prosecuted. That is what we get. I presume we should be thankful for it.

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

170 years ago today - Jan 5, 1843

Judge Nathaniel Pope rules that the extradition request from Missouri Governor Liburn Boggs to have Joseph Smith extradited to Missouri shall be quashed and that Smith "shall be free from any attempt to secure him. He should be troubled no more in relation to the matter touching this prosecution." Smith was charged with being an accessory to the attempted murder of Boggs.

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

175 years ago today - Jan 5, 1838

[Lucy Mack Smith] At a conference in Far West, the Saints reject David Whitmer, John Whitmer, and W. W. Phelps as the local presidency; then the high council excommunicates Phelps and John Whitmer.

[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]

50 years ago today - Jan 4, 1963

First Presidency publishes message: "We deplore the presumption of some politicians, especially officers, co-ordinators and members of the John Birch Society, who undertake to align the Church or is leadership with their political views." Apostle Ezra Taft Benson's son Reed is Birch coordinator for Utah.

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

120 years ago today - Jan 4, 1893

The President of the United States, Benjamin Harrison, issued a proclamation of amnesty to all polygamists who had entered into that relationship before Nov. 1, 1890. The Utah Commission soon ruled that voting restrictions in the territory should be removed.

[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 - Jan 4, 1863

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] I went to the printing office & stoped untill 10 oclok to get the Telegraphic dispatches. We got President Abraham Lincoln Message delivered on the first day of Jan 1863 Setting free all slaves in all the Cotton States who were in arms against the Northern States.

[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 - Jan 4, 1843

Joseph Smith stands trial on a Missouri writ in Springfield before Judge Pope who is accompanied by several ladies, possibly his response to the rumors of polygamy. Joseph Smith is acquitted.

[Source: Hales, Brian C., Joseph Smith's Polygamy: History and Theology, 2 vols., Salt Lake City: Greg Kofford Books, 2013 (www.JosephSmithsPolygamy.com)]

180 years ago today - Jan 4, 1833

"By Commandment of God" and "by the authority of Jesus Christ" Joseph writes a lengthy letter to the editor of the American Revivalist and Rochester Observer, warning that "not many years shall pass away, before the United States shall present such a scene of bloodshed as has not a parallel in the history of our nation: pestilence, hail, famine, and earthquake will sweep the wicked of this generation from off the face of the land. to open and prepare the way for the return of the lost tribes of Israel from the north country ... there are those now living upon the earth whose eyes shall not be closed in death until they see all these things, which I have spoken, fulfilled. "

[The letter explains the reasons for the plagues in the U.S. (such as the Asiatic cholera). "I think that it is high time for a Christian world to awake out of sleep. ... this is what has caused me to overlook my own inability, and expose my weakness to a learned world. ... I step forth into the field to tell you what the Lord is doing, and what you must do to enjoy the smiles of your Savior in these last days."

[Source: HC, Vol. 1, pp.315-316]

20 years ago today - Jan 3, 1993

The Mormon Tabernacle Choir‘s ―Music and the Spoken Word is telecast from Jerusalem.

[Source: Sherry Baker: Mormon Media History Timeline: 1827-2007, http://byustudies.byu.edu/showTitle.aspx?title=7984]

65 years ago today - Jan 3, 1948

[Frank Evans] Colonel Elmer Thomas phoned me re Mrs. Russel L. Tracey, tenant in Eagle Gate Apartments, and her conversation with President Smith in which he (Col. Thomas) said that Mrs. Tracy stated that President Smith promised her preference over all other applicants on the ground of her kinship to him (Pres. Smith)!!! I told him that could not be true, ...

[Source: Frank Evans, Diary]

180 years ago today - Jan 3, 1833

Revelation, 3 January 1833 [D&C 88:127-137]

A Revelation given Jany 3. 1833 Kirtland The order of the house prepared for the presidency & instructions in all things that is expedient for the officers or in other words them who are called to the ministry in the church begining at the high priest [DEL:hood] even down to the deacons & this shall be the order of the house he that is appointed to be a teacher shall be found standing in his place which shall be prepared for him in the house of God in a place that the congregation in the house may hear his words correctly & distinctly not with loud speach. And when he cometh into the house of God for he should be first in the house behold this is beautiful that he may be [DEL:an ensample] an example let him offer himself in prayer upon his knees before God in token of the everlasting covenant & when any shall come in after him let the teacher arise & with uplifted hands to heaven yea even directly & salute his brother or brethren with these words saying art thou a brother or brethren I salute you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ in token of the everlasting covenant in which covenant I receive you to fellowship in a determination that is fixed immoveable [DEL:and] [DEL:thanksgiving] & unchangable to your friend & brother through the grace of God in the bonds of love to walk in all the commandments of God blameless in thanksgiving for ever & ever. And he that cometh in & is a brother or brethren shall salute the Teacher with uplifted hands to heaven with this same prayer & covenant or by saying amen In token of the Same Behold verily I say unto you this is a sample unto you for a salutation[DEL:s] to one another in the house of God & to you the called to the ministry of the ordinances of the house of God & ye are called to do this by prayer & thanksgiving as the spirit shall give uterance in all your doings in the house of the Lord that it may become a sanctuary a tabernacle of the Holy Spirit to your edification Amen

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

180 years ago today - Jan 3, 1833

Kirtland, Ohio. Joseph Smith received a portion of Doctrine & Covenants 88, the revelation that he designated as the -"olive leaf . . . plucked from the Tree of Paradise, the Lord's message of peace to us.-",

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

20 years ago today - Jan 2, 1993.

William O. Nelson, director of the Evaluation Division, Correlation Department, identifies as significant "doctrinal developments by the First Presidency under Priesthood Correlation" after 1990 the "statement of the First Presidency on symposia--public versus private discussion of sacred matters" and the 1992 First Presidency statement affirming "the King James Version of the Bible as the official text in English."

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

80 years ago today - Jan 2, 1933

[Apostle George Albert Smith Journal] - with wifeÂ's (?) illness, "My nerves are nearly gone but am holding on the best I know how

[Source: Journals of George Albert Smith]

170 years ago today - Jan 2, 1843

[Joseph Smith Diary] January 2nd, Monday After breakfast Joseph prophesied in the name of the Lord God, "I shall not /go/ to Missouri dead or alive." ....

E sq[ui]r[e] Lamborn remarked "Mr. Smith is a very good looking, jovial man." "Examine his head," said Laconly, "I think he is not particuarly given to burglary, rape, and Murder."

....5 o'clock went to Mr. W[illia]m Sollar's. Mr. Bridewood visited in the eve. Elder Hyde was present and after Supper asked, "What is the situation of the Negro?" [Joseph replied,] "They come into the world slaves, mentally and physically. Change their situation with the white and they would be like them. They have souls and are subjects of salvation. Go into Cincinati and find one educated [and who] rid[els in his carriage. He has risen by the power of his mind to his exalted state of respectability. Slaves in Washington [are] more refined than the president. Boys will take the shine off those they brush and wait on."

Says Elder Hyde, "Put them on the [same] level and they will rise above me." Joseph [said], "If I raised you to be my equal and then attempt to oppress you would you not be indignant and try to rise above me? ...

Objections being made to the Prophet's [lack of] meekness/ "I am meek and lowly in heart. I will personify Jesus for a moment to illustrate and [for] you inquirers. 'Wo unto you ye Doctors. Wo unto you ye scribes, pharisees, and Hypocrit[e]s.'

''You cannot find the place where I ever went that I found fault with their food, their drink, their board, or their Lodging. No never. This is what is meant by the meekness and Lowliness of Jesus."

Mr. Sollars stated that James Mullone, carpenter, of Springfield told him he had been to Nauvoo and seen Joe Smith the Prophet. He had a grey horse and I [Mullone] asked him where he got it and the Prophet said, "you see that white cloud?" "Yes." "Well as it came along I got the horse from that cloud." Joseph replied, "It was a lie. I never told him so." ...

[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1842-43, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]

170 years ago today - Jan 2, 1843

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 2d It is an important erea in the history of the Church about these days. Joseph Smith the Prophet & Seer of the Church has been Persecuted & driven into the willderness from his family & Church in Nauvoo in consequence of illegal oaths, affidavits & edicts, from men in authority Govornors &c. But having a new govornor Joseph Smith came forth & deliverd himself up to the authorities & demanded a trial & it has been granted him within a few days past before the Circuit Court of the United States & has been honorably acquited according to the law of the Land, & is now returning to Nauvoo to have a jubilee.

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

15 years ago today - Jan 01, 1998

The Melchizedek Priesthood and Relief Society classes begin study of the Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Brigham Young, the first manual in the series Teachings of the Presidents of the Church.

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

125 years ago today - Sunday, Jan 1, 1888

[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] St. Johns [stake conference]

... In the evening I met with the Presidency, high Council and Bishops and after talking over the Waltzing business it was voted to restrain it.

[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]

130 years ago today - Jan 1, 1883

[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] Have been so busy of late that I have neglected my Journal. Seeing I am so far behind have concluded to start a new journal today and fill this one up from Novr 27/82 to Jany 1/83 as opportunity will allow. --I have pencil memorandums for most of the data needed.

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

140 years ago today - Jan 1, 1873

Apostle Joseph F. Smith strikes his neighbor-s head -three times with my cane- for insulting him and letting his livestock trespass on Smith-s property. He voluntarily pleads guilty to assault and battery to Mormon justice of the peace. On Christmas night Smith had dreamed of using his cane repeatedly on opponent-s head, -intending to kill him, but was partially prevented from striking him with full force by my wives.-

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

170 years ago today - Jan 1, 1843

[Joseph Smith Diary] ... Joseph explained the nature of a Prophet, "[The] spirit of Prophecy, which is the testimony of Jesus, is necessary to constitute a witness or a preacher or a prophet." ....

While supper was preparing Joseph related an anecdote. While young, his father had a fine large watch dog which bit off an ear from David Stafford's hog, which Stafford had turned into Smith['s] corn field. Stafford /shot the dog and/ with six other fellows pitched upon him [Joseph] unawares. Joseph whipped the whole of them and escaped unhurt /which they swore to as recorded in Hurlburt's or Howe's Book [Mormonism Unvailed]/.

[Joseph also related,] While in Kirtland a Baptist Priest came in my house and abused my family. I turned him out of doors. He raised his cane to strike me and continued to abuse me. I whipped him till he begged. He threatened to prosecute me. I sent Luke Johnson the constable after him and he run him out of the County into Mentor. 7 [P.M.] returned to Judge Adams.

[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1842-43, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]