[D and C] Doctrine and Covenants 138: A vision, given to President Joseph F. Smith in Salt Lake City, Utah, on October 3, 1918. In his opening address at the eighty-ninth Semiannual General Conference of the Church, on October 4, 1918, President Smith declared that he had received several divine communications during the previous months. One of these, concerning the Savior's visit to the spirits of the dead while his body was in the tomb, he had received the previous day. It was written immediately following the close of the conference; on October 31, 1918, it was submitted to the counselors in the First Presidency, the Council of the Twelve, and the Patriarch, and it was unanimously accepted by them.
[Source: Doctrine and Covenants, http://amzn.to/DoctrineandCovenants]
120 years ago today - Oct 31, 1893
[Francis M. Lyman] Had much talk [on the train] with Pres[iden]ts [George Q.] Cannon and [Joseph F.] Smith upon seniority in the Apostleship. They do dot agree upon the subject. Bro[ther] C[annon] holds that seniority rests with Apostles who have not been of the Twelve as well as the Twelve. Bro[ther]
S[mith] does not.
[Lorenzo Snow later decides an apostle must be a member of the Quorum of Twelve to have seniority, resulting in Joseph F. Smith becoming the next president of the church rather than John W. Young.]
[Source: Francis M. Lyman, Diary]
S[mith] does not.
[Lorenzo Snow later decides an apostle must be a member of the Quorum of Twelve to have seniority, resulting in Joseph F. Smith becoming the next president of the church rather than John W. Young.]
[Source: Francis M. Lyman, Diary]
175 years ago today - Oct 31, 1838
[Joseph Smith] Far West is surrounded by 2,000 troops, which are soon reinforced by 1500 more troops. The Saints are outnumbered by approximately five to one. However, neither side is eager to begin the battle, and the day is spent in a standoff, with each side trying to decide what to do. In the evening, Col. Hinkle goes out with a flag of truce to meet with the Missourians. Joseph, Sidney Rigdon, Parley P. Pratt, Lyman Wight, and George W. Robinson then go out to meet the flag and are taken prisoner. General Lucas marches them in front of the leering, screaming soldiers, who abuse them greatly. They are forced to sleep on the ground during a rainstorm while the guards mock them, asking Joseph to show them angels and miracles.
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
180 years ago today - Oct 31, 1833 (Thursday)
a mob attacked a branch of the Church, west of the Big Blue, in Jackson County, Mo., destroyed ten houses, and beat several of the brethren in a most brutal manner.
[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
35 years ago today - Oct 30, 1978
First Presidency announces emeritus status for general authorities due to age, physical infirmity, or other reasons. Members of First Quorum of Seventy are first general authorities to receive this retirement.
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
80 years ago today - Oct 30, 1933
[President Heber J. Grant Diary] Serge F. Ballif ... is very very anxious regarding Owen [Woodruff]'s course and so am I. He is connected with the publishing of a paper that is almost Communistic in its nature.
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
170 years ago today - Oct 30, 1843
Brigham Young's diary states: "Monday evening Baptized Sisters Cuoub [Auga Adams Cobb] & Hari[e]tt Cook." Two days later Joseph Smith marries these two women to Young. Auga Adams Cobb married Henry Cobb of Boston, Mass., in 1822. She left him five of her seven children to join with the Mormons. Her husband divorced her in 1847- four years after she married Brigham Young.
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
175 years ago today - 1838 30 Oct.
[Joseph Smith] Militia attack the Haun's Mill settlement and murder seventeen men and boys. Thomas McBride, the oldest victim, is "cut to pieces with a corn cutter...literally mangled from head to foot." Sardius Smith, one of the youngest victims, begs for his life from a militiaman who put "his rifle near the boy's head, and literally blowed off the upper part of it." Although her son Sardius and husband are dead, Amanda Barnes Smith is preoccupied with one of her surviving sons, because "the entire hip joint of my wounded boy [Alma] had been shot away." She reports obtaining "a vision" from God about the way to care for the injury and tells her son that "the Lord will make you another hip." She would later write: "It is now nearly forty years ago, but Alma has never been the least crippled during his life."
[Source: Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 7: Selected Chronology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]
[Source: Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 7: Selected Chronology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]
175 years ago today - Oct 30, 1838
[Joseph Smith] Haun's Mill Massacre. At about four P.M. approximately 240 men ride up to the small community of Haun's Mill (which has fewer than 15 buildings) and open fire on a flag of truce. Many of the Saints gather in the blacksmith's shop; guns are stuck through the cracks in the logs and fired until most in the building are dead. A few escape across the river into the hills. By the end of the massacre, 1600 rounds of ammunition have been fired at 40 people; 18 or 19 have been killed, and about 15 wounded. Among those killed are boys under 10 and men over 75 years old.As soon as Governor Boggs's exterminating order is received, General Atchison withdraws from the army at Richmond, Mo. At evening a state militia force of about 2,000 approaches and surrounds the city of Far West. They are led by General Lucas. The Saints spend the night building up fortifications and preparing for a massive battle in the morning.
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
60 years ago today - Oct 29, 1953
President McKay mentioned another matter which he said is one of great importance, and that is the new method of presenting the Endowment in our Temple that will be constructed in Europe. There will be no change in the endowment ceremonies but instead of having the members move from one room to another, we will bring the rooms to the people.20 He explained that that involves a great deal of study and preparation, and it will all have to be done here, undoubtedly in this [Salt Lake] temple before we introduce it there. The First Presidency feel that a committee should be appointed, who will be recommended by the Temple Committee, and will meet later, and probably Brother [Richard L.] Evans, assisted by Brother Gordon B. Hinckley, and some other specialists could be studying the modern use of the radio and television, and Brother Evans could render excellent service in that connection, and it would perhaps be well to have him here to partake of the spirit of this Council.
[Source: Minutes, meeting of the First Presidency and Quorum of Twelve, Oct. 1, 1953, included in David O. McKay diary, Oct. 29, 1953; as quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
[Source: Minutes, meeting of the First Presidency and Quorum of Twelve, Oct. 1, 1953, included in David O. McKay diary, Oct. 29, 1953; as quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
90 years ago today - Oct 29, 1923
I spent the day at the Temple. Jos[eph] F. Smith Jr. & Stephen L. Richards spent two hrs. with me in the Temple going over the Temple ordinances, considering proposed changes.
[Source: George F. Richards diary, Oct. 29, 1923 as quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
[Source: George F. Richards diary, Oct. 29, 1923 as quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
115 years ago today - Oct 29, 1898; Saturday
Bro[ther] [Heber J.] Grant told me how Rudger Clawson was called to the Apostleship. The Apostles
handed in names to fill vacancy. The Presidency considered these names. It is thought that his name was not mentioned by the Apostles. Pres[ident] [Lorenzo] Snow suggested Bro[ther] Clawsons name and said it was the will of the Lord and all united in accepting him. I can readily see that if the Prophet of the Lord suggests a man to fill any vacancy, it is the will of the Lord, yet I am in doubt that a direct revelation was given.
[Source: J. Golden Kimball, Diary]
handed in names to fill vacancy. The Presidency considered these names. It is thought that his name was not mentioned by the Apostles. Pres[ident] [Lorenzo] Snow suggested Bro[ther] Clawsons name and said it was the will of the Lord and all united in accepting him. I can readily see that if the Prophet of the Lord suggests a man to fill any vacancy, it is the will of the Lord, yet I am in doubt that a direct revelation was given.
[Source: J. Golden Kimball, Diary]
125 years ago today - Monday, Oct 29, 1888
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] It was learned our brethren were withdrawing from the church in Idaho in order to vote. After consideration it was concluded we could do nothing and they better go on and vote.
[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]
[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]
5 years ago today - 10/28/2008
[Same-Sex Marriage] A surge of donations from Texas, New Mexico, Idaho and Illinois begins flooding into protectmarriage.com's bank accounts following a $1,000,000 donation by Mormon Alan Ashton (who contributed a sum to match Bruce Bastian's $1,000,000 earlier donation to the No on 8 side). [Ashton and Bastian both made their millions together at Word Perfect corp.]
Some videos published at mormonsformarriage.com and YouTube are taken down at the request of the video authors who had been asked by their bishop to remove them from the web.
[Source: Mormons for Marriage: A Prop 8 Timeline, http://mormonsformarriage.com/?page_id=68]
Some videos published at mormonsformarriage.com and YouTube are taken down at the request of the video authors who had been asked by their bishop to remove them from the web.
[Source: Mormons for Marriage: A Prop 8 Timeline, http://mormonsformarriage.com/?page_id=68]
120 years ago today - Oct 28, 1893
Bertha Stone (Reeder), later the fifth general president of the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association (predecessor to the Young Women organization), is born in Ogden, Utah.
[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]
[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]
120 years ago today - Oct 28, 1893
[Apostle Marriner W. Merrill Diary] Went to Franklin in the forenoon and attended a meeting in Richmond at 2 p. m.; Brigham Young, F. M. Lyman, and President Orson Smith of Logan were present. I was adjudged in the wrong for sustaining the counsel of the First Presidency of the Church in an address to the Saints last March.
[Source: Notes from the Miscellaneous Record Book, 1886-1906: Selected diary notes from the journal books of Marriner Wood Merrill, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Notes from the Miscellaneous Record Book, 1886-1906: Selected diary notes from the journal books of Marriner Wood Merrill, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
180 years ago today - Oct 28, 1833
[Joseph Smith Diary] ... [We] had a good meeting. One of the sisters got the gift of toungues which made the Saints rejoice. May God incre[a]se the gifts among them for his Son's sake.
[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1832-34, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]
[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1832-34, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]
1913, 100 years ago this year.
[Joseph F. Smith] YWMIA adopts the Campfire Girls summer program; 1914, replaced with year-round Beehive Girls program.
[Source: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph F. Smith, Salt Lake City, Utah]
[Source: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph F. Smith, Salt Lake City, Utah]
175 years ago today - Oct 27, 1838
[Joseph Smith] A funeral is held for David Patten. Joseph testifies, "There lies a man that has done just as he said he wouldâ€"he has laid down his life for his friends." Governor Boggs's exterminating order is issued. Hearing the many rumors of the destruction and insurrection of the Saints, Boggs orders that "the Mormons must be treated as enemies and must be exterminated or driven from the state, if necessary for the public good. Their outrages are beyond all description."
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
175 years ago today - Oct 27, 1838
Governor Boggs issues an executive order, also known as the "Extermination Order", revoked in 1976 by then Missouri Governor Christopher S. Bond.
[Source: Wikipedia, 19th Century (Mormonism), http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/19th_century_(Mormonism)]
[Source: Wikipedia, 19th Century (Mormonism), http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/19th_century_(Mormonism)]
10 years ago today - Oct 26, 2003
Spencer LeVan Kimball, retired University of Chicago law professor and former executive director of the American Bar Association, dies in Salt Lake City at age 85. According to Illinois Bar Association Obituary: "A veteran of service as a Navy lieutenant during World War II and a Rhodes Scholar, Mr. Kimball graduated from the University of Utah Law School and became its dean at age 35. He later was a law professor and legal research director at the University of Michigan and dean of the University of Wisconsin. Mr. Kimball was director of the Wisconsin Statutes Revision Project, a model for insurance codes, and a founder of an international insurance law association." Spencer LeVan Kimball's disbelief in Mormonism is discussed in the official biography of his father Spencer W. Kimball.
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
35 years ago today - Oct 26, 1978
The Missionary Training Center in Provo, Utah, previously the Language Training Mission constructed in 1976, began training all missionaries.
[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]
[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]
80 years ago today - Oct 26, 1933
At temple council meeting his counselors and Twelve persuade Heber J. Grant not to distribute his Apr. and Oct. conference talks against repeal of national Prohibition. On Nov. 7 Utah's voters elect anti-Prohibition candidates who time their convention on Dec. 5 to make Utah the final state necessary to end Prohibition.
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
120 years ago today - Oct 26, 1893
[Patriarchal Blessings] [Patriarchal Blessing of James E. Talmage given by William J. Smith on October 26, 1893]
... And the Lord shall be with thee in dreams and visions in different languages and the interpretation of the same. Thou shalt have the spirit of revelation, and prophecy and discernment; your eye shall be like the eye of the eagle to see near by and afar off, with power to discern every false spirit under the whole heavens, that thou may'st not be deceived thereby: that thou may'st have power over devils and demons and that cruel and wicked monster that fell before the throne of God, that thou may'st escape his grasp. ... and thou shalt have power to perform any miracle that was ever wrought by man upon the earth, for the salvation and deliverance of Israel. .... Thou shalt live to see Israel gathered from the four quarters of the earth, to assist in the redemption of Zion, and be gathered to the center Stake ... Thou shalt have the ministering of angels to stand by thee, and protect thee from all evil....
[Source: Patriarchal Blessings]
... And the Lord shall be with thee in dreams and visions in different languages and the interpretation of the same. Thou shalt have the spirit of revelation, and prophecy and discernment; your eye shall be like the eye of the eagle to see near by and afar off, with power to discern every false spirit under the whole heavens, that thou may'st not be deceived thereby: that thou may'st have power over devils and demons and that cruel and wicked monster that fell before the throne of God, that thou may'st escape his grasp. ... and thou shalt have power to perform any miracle that was ever wrought by man upon the earth, for the salvation and deliverance of Israel. .... Thou shalt live to see Israel gathered from the four quarters of the earth, to assist in the redemption of Zion, and be gathered to the center Stake ... Thou shalt have the ministering of angels to stand by thee, and protect thee from all evil....
[Source: Patriarchal Blessings]
165 years ago today - Oct 26, 1848
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] I read an account of the Temple of Nauvoo being burnt on the 9th Oct by our enemies.
In reading the papers of yesterday I learned that All Europe was filled with Riot war distress And calamities of Almost evry kind Also that the Cholery had made its Appearance in London Glasgow Edinburgh & others places in that Country. Truly the wrath of God is resting upon the gentile world. $1,000,000 worth of fishing boats were destroyed on the Coasts of Scotland in one storm & 150 fishermen loss there lives. Also $1,000,000 worth of American shipping lost in one storm on our coast.
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
In reading the papers of yesterday I learned that All Europe was filled with Riot war distress And calamities of Almost evry kind Also that the Cholery had made its Appearance in London Glasgow Edinburgh & others places in that Country. Truly the wrath of God is resting upon the gentile world. $1,000,000 worth of fishing boats were destroyed on the Coasts of Scotland in one storm & 150 fishermen loss there lives. Also $1,000,000 worth of American shipping lost in one storm on our coast.
[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 - Oct 26, 1843
Joseph Smith performs a marriage ceremony between [Joseph's plural wife] Maria Lawrence and John M. Bernhisel, ostensibly to shield the Prophet from suspicion.
[Source: Hales, Brian C., Joseph Smith's Polygamy: History and Theology, 3 vols., Salt Lake City: Greg Kofford Books, 2013 (www.JosephSmithsPolygamy.com)]
[Source: Hales, Brian C., Joseph Smith's Polygamy: History and Theology, 3 vols., Salt Lake City: Greg Kofford Books, 2013 (www.JosephSmithsPolygamy.com)]
5 years ago today - October 25
[Proposition 8] Media reporting that due to criticism, the LDS church pulls the plug on out of state phone banks.
[Source: Latter-Day Army: Details of Mormons and Prop 8, http://www.stopthemormons.com/?p=486]
[Source: Latter-Day Army: Details of Mormons and Prop 8, http://www.stopthemormons.com/?p=486]
110 years ago today - Oct 25, 1903
Issue of the New York Times: "The imprisonment of Jacob Cochrane [sic] checked the spread of his dogma, but as the time of his release drew near his disciples grew rampant and received a new command to take "spiritual wives"... There were a few divorces, some marriages, and several elopements of spiritual partners, and finally emigration to Salt Lake City. Cochrane returned to his legal wife, broken in health and spirit, a "back number." One of Brigham Young's first "plurals," Augusta Adams Cobb (1802-1886) was a former Cochranite, or was influenced by the teachings of that sect, prior to her 1843 elopement with Brigham. Other prominent early Mormons who were possibly influenced by Cochranism include Mary Bailey (1808-1841) who married Elder Samuel H. Smith, and (even more likely) Agnes Moultin (1811-1876) who married Samuel's brother, Elder Don Carlos Smith. [http://www.truthandgrace.com/1828polygamy.htm]
[Source: Brooke, John L. The Refiner's Fire: The Making of Mormon Cosmology, 1644-1844. Cambridge: Cambridge UP, 1994. p.282]
[Source: Brooke, John L. The Refiner's Fire: The Making of Mormon Cosmology, 1644-1844. Cambridge: Cambridge UP, 1994. p.282]
120 years ago today - Oct 25, 1893
U.S. President Grover Cleveland signs congressional resolution for return of church's confiscated monies and personal property. Utah Supreme Court returns these properties to church authorities on Jan. 10, 1894.
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
160 years ago today - Oct 25, 1853
[Deseret] Paiute people attacked U.S. Army Captain John W. Gunnison and his party of 37 soldiers and railroad surveyors near Sevier Lake, Utah. Gunnison and seven other men were killed.
[Source: Legends of America, Old West Timeline, http://www.legendsofamerica.com/we-TimeLine2.html]
[Source: Legends of America, Old West Timeline, http://www.legendsofamerica.com/we-TimeLine2.html]
165 years ago today - Oct 25, 1848
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] ... arived in Boston ... got Blocked up by the great Procession marching through the City in celebration of the introduction of the water from the long pond into the City of Boston. The Procession was two hours and 30 minutes ...The night was passed with fire works & illuminations. While beholding these things going on the words of the Lord came with wait upon my mind which says "Broad is the road that leads to death & thousands flock together there while wisdom shows A narrow path with here And there A traveller."
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[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 - Oct 25, 1838
Apostle David W. Patten is killed while leading Danites against the Missouri militia in the "Battle of Crooked River." Apostle Parley P. Pratt kills a militiaman, and wounds another who (while unconscious on the ground) is mutilated by enraged Danites.
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
5 years ago today - 10/24/2008
[Same-Sex Marriage] The Salt Lake Tribune reports: Latter-day Saints are free to disagree with their church on the issue without facing any sanction, said L. Whitney Clayton of the LDS Quorum of the Seventy. "We love them and bear them no ill will." Still, he emphasized that most Mormons in California support the church's efforts on behalf of the initiative.
[Source: Mormons for Marriage: A Prop 8 Timeline, http://mormonsformarriage.com/?page_id=68]
[Source: Mormons for Marriage: A Prop 8 Timeline, http://mormonsformarriage.com/?page_id=68]
25 years ago today - Oct 24, 1988
President Thomas S. Monson of the First Presidency meets with officials of the German Democratic Republic (DDR) and asks for permission for the Church to send missionaries to the DDR and to call DDR citizens to serve missions to other countries. Government officials later grant his requests.
[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]
[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]
130 years ago today - 1883. October 24
(Hugh B. Brown) : Born in Granger, Utah, the fifth of fourteen children. He married Zina Young Card, a granddaughter of Brigham Young, in 1908. They were the parents of eight children, including a son, Hugh Card Brown, RAF pilot lost over the North Sea during World War II.
[Source: Van Wagoner, Richard and Walker, Steven C., A Book of Mormons, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Van Wagoner, Richard and Walker, Steven C., A Book of Mormons, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
175 years ago today - 1838. October 24
John D. Lee later wrote, "I admit up to this time that I frankly believed what the Prophet and his apostles had said on the subject. I had considered that I was bullet proof, that no Gentile ball could ever harm me, or any Saint, and I had believed that a Danite could not be killed by Gentile hands. I thought that one Danite could chase a thousand Gentiles, and two could put ten thousand to flight. Alas! my dreams of security were over. One of our mighty men had fallen, and that by Gentile hands!"
[Source: Van Wagoner, Richard and Walker, Steven C., A Book of Mormons, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Van Wagoner, Richard and Walker, Steven C., A Book of Mormons, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
175 years ago today - Oct 24, 1838
Thomas B. Marsh, formerly president of the Twelve, goes to Richmond to swear out an affidavit against Joseph Smith. He accuses Joseph of secretly backing the Danites in their many works of destruction, saying that Joseph claimed "he would be a second Mohammed to this generation, and that he would make it one gore of blood from the Rocky Mountains to the Atlantic ocean; that like Mohammed, whose motto in treating for peace was, 'the Alcoran or the Sword.' So should it be eventually with us, 'Joseph Smith or the sword.' " Orson Hyde, sick with fever, also signs the affidavit stating that he believes most of Marsh's accusations to be true.
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
175 years ago today - (Wed) Oct 24, 1838
Apostles Orson Hyde and Thomas B. Marsh left Far West, meet with Gentiles, and sign affidavits saying that Joseph Smith was plotting to take over the state of Missouri, and eventually the U.S. Other Mormons leaving or being forced out of the Church included: John Corrill, Reed Beck, John Clemeson, William W. Phelps, Sampson Avard and George M. Hinkle [Allen Joseph Stout].
[Source: Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]
[Source: Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]
175 years ago today - Oct 24, 1838
David Wyman Patten: Authorized to lead body of Caldwell County militia to rescue kidnaped Mormons in Ray County, Missouri, 24 October 1838.
[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]
[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]
50 years ago today - Oct 23, 1963
Apostle Joseph Fielding Smith, president of Twelve, writes: "I am glad to report to you that it will be some time before we hear anything from Brother [Ezra Taft] Benson, who is now on his way to Great Britain."
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
105 years ago today - Oct 23, 1908; Friday
I spent about two hours with Pres[ident]. Francis M. Lyman at his home considering church history, most of which is not found in the regular history of the Church. I read a controversy had between B[isho]p. C[harles]. W. Nibley & B. H. Roberts over the latter's attitude toward Elder Reed Smoot's candidacy to succeed himself as U.S. Senator. Read a letter from Pres[ident]. Wilford Woodruff addressed to Elder H[eber]. J. Grant on Succession to the Presidency to the Church also minutes of a meeting of the First Presidency and the Twelve held in Pres[ident] Lorenzo Snows day in 1890 [sic; 1900] where the question of right of seniority between Jos[eph]. F. Smith and Brigham Young Jr. was decided. I also read a sermon in Millenial Star preached by Amasa Lyman in Scotland many years ago which lead to his excommunication from the Church. In this sermon Apostle Amasa Lyman denied the efficacy of the blood of the Savior to atone for sins repented of holding that repentance alone was necessary i.e. turning away from sin.
[Source: George F. Richards, Diary]
[Source: George F. Richards, Diary]
170 years ago today - Oct 23, 1843
[Joseph Smith Diary] Monday, October 23rd 3 The following named deceased persons were sealed to me on 26th of October [1843]. [See list on manuscript page 145.] [several lines left blank]
4 Hyrum began to act in his office as Temple committee. [several lines left blank]
It is reported that O[liver] H. Olney was married last Thursday eve[ning] to Miss Wheeler by Joseph Hacock. Cloudy, east wind.
[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1843-44, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]
4 Hyrum began to act in his office as Temple committee. [several lines left blank]
It is reported that O[liver] H. Olney was married last Thursday eve[ning] to Miss Wheeler by Joseph Hacock. Cloudy, east wind.
[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1843-44, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]
170 years ago today - Oct 23, 1843
[Brigham Young] I visited the Prophet Joseph, who was glad to see us. We paid him every cent of the means we had collected for the temple and Nauvoo House. He taught us many principles illustrating the doctrine of celestial marriage concerning which God had given him a revelation, July 12th [1843] [D&C 132].
[Source: Manuscript History of Brigham Young, 1801-1844, ed. Elden Jay Watson (Salt Lake City: Smith Secretarial Service, 1968).]
[Source: Manuscript History of Brigham Young, 1801-1844, ed. Elden Jay Watson (Salt Lake City: Smith Secretarial Service, 1968).]
175 years ago today - 1838 23 Oct.
[Joseph Smith] Albert P. Rockwood writes, "the Mob disperse by hundreds on the approach of the Danites (Brethren)."
[Source: Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 7: Selected Chronology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]
[Source: Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 7: Selected Chronology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]
175 years ago today - Oct 23, 1838
[Rev. Samuel Bogart to Major General David R. Atchison:] The Mormons have burnt Gallatin and Mill Port, and have ravaged Daviess county ... and they have threatened to burn Buncombe and Elk Horn and have been seen near and on the line between Ray and Caldwell." Bogart will patrol the line between Ray and Caldwell counties. [Atchison immediately replies:] You are hereby ordered to range the line between Caldwell and Ray counties with your company of volunteers, and prevent, if possible, any invasion of Ray county by persons in arms whatever ... [and] inquire into the state of things in Daviess county ...
[Source: Kenney, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://web.archive.org/web/20120805163534/saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml]
[Source: Kenney, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://web.archive.org/web/20120805163534/saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml]
More History?
Want more Mormon history? Check out LDS-Church-History, a topical approach to the history of the church. Topics from the past have included: - The Life of Lorenzo Snow - Speaking in Tongues - Rebaptism, - Word of Wisdom - Dreams in LDS history - The life of George Albert Smith - The history of Z.C.M.I. - Tithing More info can be found here: http://bit.ly/ldshst
10 years ago today - Oct 22, 2003
[U.S. Religious History] On the news program Crossfire, Jerry Falwell explained that God was responsible for the election and re-election of President Clinton. The reason: "I think that we needed Bill Clinton, because we turned our backs on the Lord and we needed a bad President to get our attention again. To pray for a good President. That's what I believe."
[Source: Cline, Austin, History of American Religion: Timeline]
[Source: Cline, Austin, History of American Religion: Timeline]
110 years ago today - Thursday, Oct 22, 1903
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ... The clerk read a letter from a Mr. [Allen C.] Sothern of Independence, Mo., in which he made a tender to the church of 25 acres of the original temple lot of 65 acres at Independence at a thousand dollars an acre. Pres. [Joseph F.] Smith reported that Pres. [James G.] Duffin of the S.W. States Mission had been instructed to proceed to Independence at once and negotiate for said property being authorized to offer not to exceed $20,000, but to get it for $16,000, if possible.
Pres. Smith explained that during the lifetime of President Woodruff a guaranty had been given to Joseph Banigan for $1,500,000. The honor and prestige of the church was behind said guaranty, but that during the Presidency of Lorenzo Snow, under the providence of the Lord in a miraculous manner, the said guaranty was released by the payment of what would be considered a trifling sum of money. At this point Pres. Smith exhibited the paper much to the gratification of all present.
[Source: Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson]
Pres. Smith explained that during the lifetime of President Woodruff a guaranty had been given to Joseph Banigan for $1,500,000. The honor and prestige of the church was behind said guaranty, but that during the Presidency of Lorenzo Snow, under the providence of the Lord in a miraculous manner, the said guaranty was released by the payment of what would be considered a trifling sum of money. At this point Pres. Smith exhibited the paper much to the gratification of all present.
[Source: Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson]
140 years ago today - Oct 22, 1873 (Wednesday)
The steamship Idaho sailed from Liverpool, England, with 522 Saints, in charge of John I. Hart. The company arrived at New York, Nov. 4th, and at Salt Lake City, Nov. 14th.
[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
175 years ago today - Oct 22, 1838
[Missouri War] Mormon troops return to Far West after driving nearly all non-Mormons from Daviess.
[Source: LeSueur, Stephen C., The 1838 Mormon War in Missouri, Appendix: Chronology of Events in Missouri, 1838-1839]
[Source: LeSueur, Stephen C., The 1838 Mormon War in Missouri, Appendix: Chronology of Events in Missouri, 1838-1839]
190 years ago today - Oct 22, 1823
The WAYNE SENTINAL in Palmyra, New York publishes an account of a vision "seen and received by Asa Wild, of Amsterdam, (N. Y.)" In the vision "the Great Jehovah" appeared and "He also told me, that every denomination of professing christians had become extremely corrupt; . . .He told me further, that he had raised up, and was now raising up, that class of persons signified by the angel mentioned by the Revelator XIV. 6, 7, which flew in the midst of heaven; having the everlasting gospel to preach, that these persons are of an inferior [social] class, and small learning; that they were rejected by every denomination as a body; but soon, God will open their way, by miracles, judgments, &c. that they will have higher authority, greater power, superior inspiration, and a greater degree of holiness than was ever experienced before . . ."
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
40 years ago today - Oct 21, 1973
First Presidency letter urges 78,800 Mormons in Washington state to vote against referendum to allow nineteen-year-olds to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages.
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
80 years ago today - Oct 21, 1933
[President Heber J. Grant Diary] I called at the office of Preston Richards and had a visit with an architect who is working out a plan of architecture along Mayan lines. His theory is that the Mayas were the fore-runners of the builders of the pyramids of Egypt. If his theories are correct we had any number of inhabitants upon this continent before Adam.
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
115 years ago today - Oct 21, 1898; Friday
Chat with Geo[rge] A[lbert] Smith during my second visit and he told me he would do all he could to aid me in making Mr McCune a Senator, I was pleased to get this assurance from him. I feel thankful for the 500 given by McCune to aid the [Mutual Improvement] League.
[Source: Heber J. Grant, Diary]
[Source: Heber J. Grant, Diary]
165 years ago today - Oct 21, 1848
Oliver Cowdery travels to meet Church (heading for West) at Council Bluffs, Iowa and granted request to be re-baptized.
[Source: Tidd, N. R., "Mormon Chronology"]
[Source: Tidd, N. R., "Mormon Chronology"]
180 years ago today - (Mon) Oct 21, 1833
Kirtland Township Overseer of the Poor, Roswell D. Cottrill, began serving a writ of "warning out of town" upon 49 Mormon families in Kirtland. The process was not completed until Dec. 20. Among the first names on his list were Joseph Smith, Jr., Hyrum Smith, and Sidney Rigdon
[Source: Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]
[Source: Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]
105 years ago today - Oct 20, 1908; Tuesday
... They had requested me to perform the ceremony but the First Presidency had recently ruled that the Twelve should not solemnize marriages outside the temples I had to excuse myself.
[Source: George F. Richards, Diary]
[Source: George F. Richards, Diary]
110 years ago today - Oct 20, 1903
Death of Green Flake, African-American slave who drove Brigham Young into the Salt Lake Valley on Jul 24, 1847. Green was owned by Mormon James M. Flake who lent him along with a wagon and two mules to the Church for the 1847 trek west. Upon the death of James M. Flake in 1850 his widow moved to California, a free state, but before leaving gave her "Negro slave Green Flake" to the Church as tithing. Green worked two years for Brigham Young and for Heber C. Kimball, and was then granted his freedom. After his wife's death he moved to Idaho. He returned to Salt Lake in 1897 to attend the 50th anniversary "jubilee" celebration of the arrival of the pioneers, where he received a certificate honoring him as a surviving member of the Brigham Young pioneer company. He is one of three slaves listed on the plaque on the Brigham Young monument in downtown Salt Lake City under the category of "Colored Servants."
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
120 years ago today - Oct 20, 1893
[Minutes, Quorum of Twelve] At 11-30 L[orenzo]. S[now]. F[ranklin] D R[ichards], F[rancis] M L[yman], J[ohn]. H[enry].
S[mith]. Geo[rge]. T[easdale]. A[braham] H Cannon-met the 3 Presidency at their office.
A telegram states that 5 persons therein named are reported up to the Attorney General with necessary proof offered of violation of Edmunds Tucker act & warning us to keep clear of any violation thereof. Decided to try & head off prosecutions even at heavy cost for varied & most important reasons of public importance.
[Source: Franklin D. Richards, Diary; James E. Talmage, Diary]
S[mith]. Geo[rge]. T[easdale]. A[braham] H Cannon-met the 3 Presidency at their office.
A telegram states that 5 persons therein named are reported up to the Attorney General with necessary proof offered of violation of Edmunds Tucker act & warning us to keep clear of any violation thereof. Decided to try & head off prosecutions even at heavy cost for varied & most important reasons of public importance.
[Source: Franklin D. Richards, Diary; James E. Talmage, Diary]
170 years ago today - Oct 20, 1843
- William Clayton writes: "Joseph gave us much instruction, showing the advantages of the E[verlasting] C[ovenant]. He said there was two seals in the Priesthood. The first was that which was placed upon a man and woman when they made the covenant and the other was the seal which alloted to them their particular mansion. After his discourse B. F. Johnson and his wife were united in an everlasting covenant."
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
120 years ago today - Oct 20, 1893
[Apostle Franklin D. Richards Diary] At 1130 LS, FDR, FML, JHS, AH Cannon met the 3 Presidency at their office. A telegram states that 5 persons therein named are reported up to the Attorney General with necessary proof offered of violation of Edmunds Tucker act & warning us to keep clear of any violation thereof. Decided to try and head off prosecutions even at heavy cost for varied & not important reasons of public importance(?).
[Source: Diary Excerpts of Franklin D. Richards, 1887-1897, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Diary Excerpts of Franklin D. Richards, 1887-1897, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
5 years ago today - 10/20/2008
[Same-Sex Marriage] Yes on 8 sends out letters to several businesses that had donated to the No on 8 campaign, explaining that unless those businesses donated a similar amount to the Yes on 8 campaign, the ProtectMarriage.com website would have to assume that "it would be a clear indication that you are in opposition to traditional marriage.... The names of any companies and organizations that choose not to donate in like manner to ProtectMarriage.com but have given to Equality California will be published. It is only fair for Proposition 8 supporters to know which companies and organizations oppose traditional marriage." The letter is signed by Ron Prentice (Yes on 8 Campaign Chair), Mark A. Jansson (Executive Committee Member, also LDS), Edward Dolejsi (Catholic) and Andrew Pugno (General Counsel for PM)
[Source: Mormons for Marriage: A Prop 8 Timeline, http://mormonsformarriage.com/?page_id=68]
[Source: Mormons for Marriage: A Prop 8 Timeline, http://mormonsformarriage.com/?page_id=68]
15 years ago today - 10/19/1998
BYU Prof Lynn Wardle writes memo to Elder Marlin K. Jensen (Chair, SGM Committee), David E. Sorensen, Loren C. Dunn, Lance B. Wickman (Office of Legal Services), and Richard B. Wirthlin regarding "A Proposal to Amend the U.S. Constitution to Prohibit Same-Sex Marriage" Wardle writes that hed attended a "strategic consultation" about same-sex marriage in which a bunch of anti-same-sex organizations were involved. "We heard very informative reports about the current situation in Hawaii (from Friz Rohlfing), Alaska (from Kevin Clarkson), Vermont (from Tom McCormick), and California (from Andy Pugno), and a summary of the pending lawuit[sic] in New York (from Bill Duncan). There were repeated expressions of appreciation from these persons for the leadership, support and efforts of the LDS Church in responding to the threat of same-sex marriage in those states." Wardle opposed the idea of a national amendment, but was not particularly well-received: "I was listened to politely, but little support (only from Andy Pugno) was expressed for my position." "If there is any bad news in November in Alaska (where things look very favorable at present, thanks largely to the Church's financial support) or Hawaii (where the matter was described as being very close),... or if same-sex marriage is legalized in any other state, some of our allies who oppose same-sex marriage may immediately call for a U.S. constitutional amendment to prohibit same-sex marriage. I thought that you should be aware of that and begin thinking about how the affected agencies and representatives of the Church might respond to that kind of a proposal."
[Source: Mormons for Marriage: A Prop 8 Timeline, http://mormonsformarriage.com/?page_id=68]
[Source: Mormons for Marriage: A Prop 8 Timeline, http://mormonsformarriage.com/?page_id=68]
170 years ago today - Oct 19, 1843. Thursday.
[William Clayton Journal] ... After we had got on the road he [Joseph Smith] began to tell me that E[mma] was turned quite friendly and kind. She had been anointed and he also had been a[nointed] K[ing]. He said that it was her advice that I should keep [Clayton's pregnant, plural wife] M[argaret] at home and it was also his council. Says he just keep her at home and brook it and if they raise trouble about it and bring you before me [as a case of adultry] I will give you an awful scourging and probably cut you off from the church and then I will baptise you and set you ahead as good as ever.
[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]
[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]
25 years ago today - Oct 18, 1988
At request of Counselor Gordon B. Hinckley, President Ezra Taft Benson appoints committee of three apostle-lawyers (Howard W. Hunter, James E. Faust, and Dallin H. Oaks) to formally investigate the publicly announced claims that as an apostle Hinckley allegedly had long-term homosexual affair with younger man. Circulated internationally by Protestant evangelicals through anti-Mormon video and book GODMAKERS II, these allegations are repudiated by apostolic committee as "pure fabrication" after "an extensive probe." Hinckley puts formal end to this investigation on May 6, 1993 when he reads statement to Presidency and Twelve. While he is counselor, temple council decides against making any kind of public denial. As church president Hinckley's authorized biography devotes three pages to this mater in 1996 but does not state whether he asked temple council to rescind its previous vote on matter.
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
50 years ago today - Oct 18, 1963
Robert McKay, David O. McKay's son as well as his secretary, writes to a U.S. Congressman concerning Apostle Ezra Taft Benson's assignment to Europe: "We shall all be relieved when Elder Benson ceases to resist counsel and returns to a concentration on those affairs befitting his office. It is my feeling that there will be an immediate and noticeable curtailment of his Birch Society activities." A week later, U.S. under-secretary of state W. Averill Harriman asks First Presidency First Counselor Hugh B. Brown how long Benson would be on this European mission. Brown replies: "If I had my way, he'd never come back."
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
165 years ago today - Oct 18, 1848
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] ... the visions of my mind have been open at times to see clearly my duty to my God to my wife and Children, to the Saints And world at large. I have also seen of late the Awful Certain judgments of God which like a gathering Storm are ready to burst upon the whole gentile world esspe-cially this Nations, who have herd the Sound of the gospel, rejected it with all the testimony of the servents of God, Have stoned And killed the Prophets are drunk with the Blood of marters And Saints And At last have driven the entire Church & kingdom of God with the Priesthood And Keys of eternal life & salvation out of their midst into the wilderness & the mountains of Israel. And by so doing have turned the last key which seals their Condemnation which lingereth not And their damnation which slum-bereth not. Therefore they cannot escape. Not ownly the Holy Ghost but that portion of the spirit of God that enlighteneth evry man that cometh into the world, like A faithful embassador has finished his work And is rapidly taking its flight from Gentile America And Wo , Wo , Wo is their DOOM.
The following verses I penned to my wife at Norwark Ct Oct 18 1848:
When Shall I hear from my dear wife
From those poor suffering Pilgraims too
Whose prayers shield me from that strife
Which daily flow from sin and wo?
It learns me how to prize their worth
When I am from them far away.
Earthly honors could not Call me forth
Or make me leave them for so long A day.
But O A message I am Call to bear
For Him who gave and holds my life.
In many A Sacrafize I'm Call to share
Often to leave my sons, my Daughters, and my wife.
O my Father Shield them with thy power
Behold their earnest Prayers which mount on high
Let Heavens watchers guard their silent Bower
Answer their prayers and note their evry sigh.
Their faith thou hast ever seen
Their sufferings Thou alone dost Know.
None but Thee can tell what all their trials have been
Since they were wandering pilgraims here below.
O my Father guard them through all time to come
Let their days and years be lengthend out.
O call them not to leave my earthy home
But make A Heaven of my humble Cot.
May they fulfill all their visit here
As did their LORD then rise to reign
Inthroned in glory beyound the reach of fear
Or sickness sorrow death or pain.
O! God forgive the past. Keep me from future Ill.
Let light, wisdom, truth and virtue fill my heart.
Prepare me for that glory which doth the Heavens fill.
From the most holy anointed vows may I never part.
O give me power to honor those noble treasures given
As the first pillars to build my Kingdom on.
Help me to firmly stand with them in Heaven
That I may prove A true and faithful son.
Then I will reign with my Dear wife and children to
With Joseph and Hiram and all of Abrams seed
I'll shout Hosannah to God and the Lamb with all who go
From their graves with the redeemed of our DEAD.
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
The following verses I penned to my wife at Norwark Ct Oct 18 1848:
When Shall I hear from my dear wife
From those poor suffering Pilgraims too
Whose prayers shield me from that strife
Which daily flow from sin and wo?
It learns me how to prize their worth
When I am from them far away.
Earthly honors could not Call me forth
Or make me leave them for so long A day.
But O A message I am Call to bear
For Him who gave and holds my life.
In many A Sacrafize I'm Call to share
Often to leave my sons, my Daughters, and my wife.
O my Father Shield them with thy power
Behold their earnest Prayers which mount on high
Let Heavens watchers guard their silent Bower
Answer their prayers and note their evry sigh.
Their faith thou hast ever seen
Their sufferings Thou alone dost Know.
None but Thee can tell what all their trials have been
Since they were wandering pilgraims here below.
O my Father guard them through all time to come
Let their days and years be lengthend out.
O call them not to leave my earthy home
But make A Heaven of my humble Cot.
May they fulfill all their visit here
As did their LORD then rise to reign
Inthroned in glory beyound the reach of fear
Or sickness sorrow death or pain.
O! God forgive the past. Keep me from future Ill.
Let light, wisdom, truth and virtue fill my heart.
Prepare me for that glory which doth the Heavens fill.
From the most holy anointed vows may I never part.
O give me power to honor those noble treasures given
As the first pillars to build my Kingdom on.
Help me to firmly stand with them in Heaven
That I may prove A true and faithful son.
Then I will reign with my Dear wife and children to
With Joseph and Hiram and all of Abrams seed
I'll shout Hosannah to God and the Lamb with all who go
From their graves with the redeemed of our DEAD.
[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 - Oct 18, 1838
Apostle David W. Patten, known by his Danite title "Captain Fearnought," descends on Gallatin, Missouri with a large contingent of Mormons and, after plundering the small village, burns most of it to the ground. Then the marauders pillage the Daviess County countryside, depositing their spoils, which they term "consecrated property," in the bishop's storehouse at Diahman.
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
5 years ago today - 10/17/2008
[Same-Sex Marriage] ProtectMarriage.com TV ad featuring the Robb and Robin Wirthlin family airs. The Wirthlins are related to both Richard Wirthlin, the Q70 member involved with the SSM memo referred to earlier in this timeline, and to Joseph B. Wirthlin, recently deceased Apostle. Elder Wirthlin was Robb's grandfather; Richard Wirthlin is Robb's great-uncle (Elder Wirthlin's younger brother).
[Source: Mormons for Marriage: A Prop 8 Timeline, http://mormonsformarriage.com/?page_id=68]
[Source: Mormons for Marriage: A Prop 8 Timeline, http://mormonsformarriage.com/?page_id=68]
20 years ago today - Oct 17, 1993
First Presidency issues statement concerning procedures for disfellowshipment and excommunication. 1995-1996 CHURCH ALMANAC states that this was in response to "extensive publicity given to six recent Church disciplinary councils in Utah." Coordinated by instructions from the Strengthening the Members Committee and apostle Boyd K. Packer to their stake presidents, six scholars and feminists had been excommunicated or disfellowshipped in Sep.
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
45 years ago today - Oct 17, 1968
Belle Smith Spafford, general president of Relief Society, is elected president of Natinal Council of Women in its eightieth anniversary year. She serves to 1970.
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
65 years ago today - Oct 17, 1948
Mormon Tabernacle Choir‘s 1,000th weekly ―Music and the Spoken Word broadcast.
[Source: Sherry Baker: Mormon Media History Timeline: 1827-2007, http://byustudies.byu.edu/showTitle.aspx?title=7984]
[Source: Sherry Baker: Mormon Media History Timeline: 1827-2007, http://byustudies.byu.edu/showTitle.aspx?title=7984]
75 years ago today - Oct 17, 1938
Some unfortunate and untoward incidents following the giving of endowments to wives of Church members who have not been through the temple, and to the wives of non-members, have brought this matter again in review by the Council of the First Presidency and the Twelve. After fully considering the whole matter the following decision has been reached: Hereafter you will not give a recommend, under any circumstances, to a wife whose husband is not a member of the Church. You may use your own good judgment and wisdom in explaining to those who apply that our experience has shown that the results of giving endowments to women whose husbands are not members of the Church have led to regrettable and unfortunate conditions, which frequently have made most difficult the lives of the women receiving their endowments. You will give recommends to wives of members of the Church who have not had their endowments only if the husband is absolutely willing that the endowment should be given to his wife. You will therefore be expected personally to interview the husband in order to assure yourself that he has no objection whatever, and, in addition, he must express his willingness and consent in writing. ...
[Source: Heber J. Grant, J. Reuben Clark Jr., and David O. McKay to Stake and Mission Presidents, Oct. 17, 1938, in MFP, 6:60-61 as quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship. Note there is no equivalent requirement for Mormon husbands to get permission for their non-Mormon wives.]
[Source: Heber J. Grant, J. Reuben Clark Jr., and David O. McKay to Stake and Mission Presidents, Oct. 17, 1938, in MFP, 6:60-61 as quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship. Note there is no equivalent requirement for Mormon husbands to get permission for their non-Mormon wives.]
120 years ago today - Oct 17, 1893
[President Wilford Woodruff Journal] 17 I Met with G[eorge] QC[annon]. J[oseph] F. S[mith] with several of the Twelve & McCallister, D. H. Cannon M W Merrill who preside over the Three Temples & L Snow of Salt Lake Temple & spent three hours in harmanizing the Different M[ode?]s of Ceremonies in giving Endowments. <I burned up> $10,000,000 Notes.
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[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 - Oct 17, 1893
Democratic SALT LAKE HERALD (of which Apostle Heber J. Grant is vice-president) reports meeting of "Afro-American Club, recently organized here for the purpose of promoting the social and political interests of the colored people of this city." The club's leader comments that "the [anti-Mormon] Liberal party has always treated Afro-Americans WITH DISTAIN.
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
165 years ago today - Oct 17, 1848
FRONTIER GUARDIAN editorial "Dancing" observes: "Among the Saints, it is regarded not only as a civil recreation, but a religious exercise when conducted by the sanction and under the government of the Church."
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
10 years ago today - Oct 16, 2003
Utah's Attorney General Mark Shurtleff, backed by the Peace Officer Standards and Training Council, announces his intention to investigate the Hildale police force and recommends decertification for all officers who have multiple wives.
[Source: Gartner, Hana, Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, Timeline: History of Polygamy, http://www.cbc.ca/fifth/bustupinbountiful/timeline.html]
[Source: Gartner, Hana, Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, Timeline: History of Polygamy, http://www.cbc.ca/fifth/bustupinbountiful/timeline.html]
25 years ago today - Oct 16, 1988
[Mark Hofmann] Richard P. Lindsay, managing director of public communications for the LDS church, tells Deseret News that the Church plans to publish "a complete list of errors, misquotes and exaggerations" in The Mormon Murders.
[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,]
[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,]
85 years ago today - Oct 16, 1928
Dear Sisters:
The auxiliary executives have unanimously recommended that the Mutual Improvement Associations and the Primary Associations be given the duty of conducting or directing the leisure time and recreational activities of the Church, except where recreational and social activities of the quorums and auxiliary associations of the Church are used to foster fellowship within organizations.
We approve the above recommendation that the Primary Associations shall have charge of the conducting or directing of the leisure time and recreational activities of the children of the Church-boys 4 to 12, girls 4 to 14.
Sincerely your brethren, HEBER J. GRANT, ANTHONY W. IVINS, CHARLES W. Nibley, First Presidency. {1928-October 16-Children's Friend 27:425, November, 1928.}
[Source: Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
The auxiliary executives have unanimously recommended that the Mutual Improvement Associations and the Primary Associations be given the duty of conducting or directing the leisure time and recreational activities of the Church, except where recreational and social activities of the quorums and auxiliary associations of the Church are used to foster fellowship within organizations.
We approve the above recommendation that the Primary Associations shall have charge of the conducting or directing of the leisure time and recreational activities of the children of the Church-boys 4 to 12, girls 4 to 14.
Sincerely your brethren, HEBER J. GRANT, ANTHONY W. IVINS, CHARLES W. Nibley, First Presidency. {1928-October 16-Children's Friend 27:425, November, 1928.}
[Source: Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
105 years ago today - Oct 16, 1908
[James Henry Martineau] Attended a reunion of Temple workers, at which the wid. of W. W. Phelps was present and spoke in tongues.
[Source: An Uncommon Common Pioneer: The Journals of James Henry Martineau 1828-1918, edited by Donald G. Godfrey XXX Rebecca S. Martineau-McCarty]
[Source: An Uncommon Common Pioneer: The Journals of James Henry Martineau 1828-1918, edited by Donald G. Godfrey XXX Rebecca S. Martineau-McCarty]
45 years ago today - Oct 15, 1968
[David O. McKay diary, Oct. 15, 1968] It was reported that requests have been received for permission to issue temple recommends to women to go to the temple to receive their endowments who are not divorced but have been separated from their husbands for some years and have not heard from them during that period of separation, nor do they know where they are. President [N. Eldon] Tanner said it was his feeling that where the law of the state where the parties reside says that a man who has deserted his wife and has not been heard of for a designated number of years is considered dead, that the woman in such a case should be given a recommend to the temple to receive her endowments. I concurred that under conditions of this kind the woman should be granted permission to go to the Temple to receive her endowments if she is otherwise worthy.
[Source: Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
[Source: Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
170 years ago today - 1843 15 Oct.
Joseph Smith preaches, "The only fault I find with the Constitution is, it is not broad enough to cover the whole ground. Although it provides that all men shall enjoy religious freedom, yet it does not provide the manner by which that freedom can be preserved, nor for the punishment of Government officers who refuse to protect the people in their religious rights, or punish those mobs, states, or communities who interfere with the rights of the people on account of their religion."
[Source: Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 7: Selected Chronology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]
[Source: Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 7: Selected Chronology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]
170 years ago today - Oct 15, 1843
[Joseph Smith Diary] "I prophecy in the name of the Lord God [that] anguish and wrath and trembulity [trembling] and tribulation and the withdrawing of the spirit of God await this generation until they are visited with utter destruction. This generation is as corrupt as the generation of the Jews that crucified Christ and if he were here to day and should preach the same doctrine he did then, why they would crucify him. I defy all the world and I prophecy they will never overthrow me till I get ready...
"The secrets of masonry is to keep a secret. ...
[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1843-44, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]
"The secrets of masonry is to keep a secret. ...
[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1843-44, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]
175 years ago today - After Oct 15, 1838
Battle at Crooked River between Mormons and Samuel Bogart's men three Mormons killed (apostle David W. Patten, Gideon Carter, and Patterson [or Patrick] O'Banion), Yokum crippled, one of the State Militia killed and Samuel Tarwater severely disfigured, causing subsequent severe retaliation.
[Source: Tidd, N. R., "Mormon Chronology"]
[Source: Tidd, N. R., "Mormon Chronology"]
105 years ago today - Oct 14, 1908; Wednesday
I did speak of the conversation had with Dr H. J. R. at time of Crusade at which time he told me plural marriages must cea[s]e. I answered never in this world. I expected we would be driven to the wall and at last God would make bear his arm in behalf of his people but when the manifesto came I received it as the word of the Lord. So I had received every revelation and every instruction from the Authorities and had never found myself in rebellion and am always on hand to do what I can for the church and to go & come as my presidents direct.
[Source: George F. Richards, Diary]
[Source: George F. Richards, Diary]
110 years ago today - Oct 14, 1903; Wednesday
$150. appropriated in favor of the orthodox Jewish Synagogue. An appropriation was made some time ago in behalf of this building. Mr. Isadore Morris now called representing that the building had been erected but that it was mortgaged for $2500., and that it was without seats, also heating apparatus. He asked a little further assistance, and the above appropriation was made.
[Source: First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
[Source: First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
170 years ago today - Oct 14, 1843. Saturday.
[William Clayton Journal] A.M. at President Joseph's. He was conversing with some strangers one of whom I believe is Dr. Turner the Phrenologist and another a mesmerist. They had a pretty warm debate. Joseph said they could not prove that the mind of man was seated in one part of the brain more than another &c
[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]
[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]
175 years ago today - Oct 14, 1838
Under the direction of the state militia, Mormons organize as an official state militia and march to disband the forming mobs in Daviess County. Allegations of property destruction and theft are made against the Mormons. No lives are lost.
[Source: Wikipedia, 19th Century (Mormonism), http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/19th_century_(Mormonism)]
[Source: Wikipedia, 19th Century (Mormonism), http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/19th_century_(Mormonism)]
175 years ago today - 14-Oct 15, 1838
Joseph Smith made his "... religion by the sword" statement at Far West, MO. Rigdon said that any Mormon who refused fight the Missourians should be forced to do just that, in the front ranks of battle.
[Source: Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]
[Source: Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]
5 years ago today - 10/13/2008
[Same-Sex Marriage] Sacramento Bee reports that LDS "Church members have donated about 40 percent of the $22.8 million raised to pass the initiative since July, according to Frank Schubert, campaign manager for ProtectMarriage.com, the primary backer of the "yes" campaign."
[Source: Mormons for Marriage: A Prop 8 Timeline, http://mormonsformarriage.com/?page_id=68]
[Source: Mormons for Marriage: A Prop 8 Timeline, http://mormonsformarriage.com/?page_id=68]
45 years ago today - Oct 13, 1968
The first branch in the Asian country of Singapore is organized, with John McSweeny as president.
[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]
[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]
140 years ago today - Oct 13, 1873
Salt Lake City School of Prophets discusses practice of Patriarch John Smith and others who ordain infant boys to priesthood. Second counselor Daniel H. Wells "said some had ordained children when thought they would die-this had been a comfort to some parents, though there was no law or revelation given for or against it, consequently he could not see any harm or wrong in having it done, neither could he think there was any particular virtue in it."
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
170 years ago today - Oct 13, 1843
[Joseph Smith Diary] A Phrenologist came in and examined Joseph's head an hour.
[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1843-44, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]
[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1843-44, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]
175 years ago today - Oct 13, 1838
[Wilford Woodruff Journal] This was a serious day to me. I arose in the morning with a severe cold & commenced walking up the foot of the green mountains. I was soon attacked with a painful dissease resembling the Collery. I stoped into a house while going up the mountains for about two hours during which time I was Constantly vomiting & purging after which I went to bed in my waggon & Elder Holmes drove my horse for me. I called upon the elders to lay hands upon me. They did so & I was healed.
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
5 years ago today - October 12
[Same-Sex Marriage] Mormon Jyl Holiday makes comment on blog that in her congregation "they have us knocking doors to warn people about it. Calling like telemarketers, and EVERY talk is about Prop 8, every RS, priesthood class is based around the proposition, it is starting to deterr members from even going to church. I TOTALLY see why the general presidency is asking for us to fight here in CA, but some of the members feel that it is just too much of shoving down the throught for them to handle."
[Source: Latter-Day Army: Details of Mormons and Prop 8, http://www.stopthemormons.com/?p=486]
[Source: Latter-Day Army: Details of Mormons and Prop 8, http://www.stopthemormons.com/?p=486]
50 years ago today - Oct 12, 1963
Dedication of Polynesian Cultural Center near temple at Laie, Hawaii, which becomes mecca for tourists to Hawaiian Islands.
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
115 years ago today - Oct 12, 1898; Wednesday
At 6 P.M. met with the General Board of the Y.M.M.I.A. at the Presidents office. There were present Apostle [Heber J.] Grant, Elder Badger, Morris, Wells, Done, [Thomas] Hull & Apostle [Abraham Owen] Woodruff. We got along very nicely, until Bro[ther Grant wanted his brother B[righam] F. Grant to be assistant manager of the "Improvement Era," and unintentionally said, if I can get him there, the Gen[era]'l Board will find him so useful that they will want him to be one of the General Board. B[righam] F. Grant was a wicked man about a year ago and because he has repented and is a brother to Heber J Grant we have to have him crowded on us, and hear of him on all occasions. My brother Solomon has repented for sixteen years and received no recognition at all.
[Source: J. Golden Kimball, Diary]
[Source: J. Golden Kimball, Diary]
125 years ago today - Oct 12, 1888
[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] We concluded in case the decision of the Idaho Courts was averse [sic] to our people registering that we would be willing for them to give written notice of withdrawal from membership in the several wards in which they lived and after the election to join again.
[It became illegal for Mormons to vote in Idaho]
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[It became illegal for Mormons to vote in Idaho]
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
130 years ago today - Oct 12, 1883
[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] At 9 A.M. met as per appointment in the Endowment House with the First Presidency, Twelve, Counselor Wells, Prests of Stakes & 4 others-we had met together fasting and for the purpose of organziing [sic] the School of the Prophets--Last evening or this morning all had taken a bath & put on clean cloth garments--excepting Bros Wells and Smoot, they knew nothing of this requirement. Prest Taylor requested them to bathe and change their garments. [On the following pages, Grant gives an account of John Taylor washing the feet of the 38 men assembled there, starting with Zebedee Coltrin, after which ordinance they all drink glasses of wine and eat bread.]
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
170 years ago today - Oct 12, 1843
Date given by [1st Presidency member] William Law (on May 23, 1844) when indicting Joseph Smith as the beginning of adulterous relations between him and his plural wife Maria Lawrence. (The reason for choosing this date is unclear according to current research.)
[Source: Hales, Brian C., Joseph Smith's Polygamy: History and Theology, 3 vols., Salt Lake City: Greg Kofford Books, 2013 (www.JosephSmithsPolygamy.com)]
[Source: Hales, Brian C., Joseph Smith's Polygamy: History and Theology, 3 vols., Salt Lake City: Greg Kofford Books, 2013 (www.JosephSmithsPolygamy.com)]
20 years ago today - Oct 11, 1993
Steve Benson goes public concerning a conversation he had earlier with Apostle Dallin Oaks concerning Apostle Boyd K. Packer contacting Paul Toscano's stake president, Kerry Heinz, concerning Toscano's disciplinary council. Oaks had publicly stated that "if Elder Packer is having any conversation with" President Heinz, "it is contrary to what I know about Elder Packer and how he operates." Benson states that Oaks had previously told him that Packer had contacted Heinz and that, "You can't stage manage a grizzly bear," adding that "it was a mistake for Packer to meet with Heinz and a mistake for Heinz to ask for the meeting."
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
45 years ago today - Oct 11, 1968
... it was the committee's proposal that we buy a ship and outfit the ship and make it a temple ship and that we take this ship to the ports of the earth where our people are. He [Elder Garf] said that with a ship we could outfit a temple and take that temple to 30%. Included in the 30% would be people in the United States who are not accessible to the temple and those throughout the world. He said that this could be done for between a million and a half and two million dollars, that a ship could be purchased and remodeled and that we could get the crew and could sail the seas at about a half a million dollars a year. This would mean that there are 50,000 Melchizedek Priesthood members in the Church that we would reach by bringing the ship to them in these ports, and in addition, their wives and children. He said there are plenty of people in the Church who would be willing and who are able to serve as captain and crew members. In this manner he said that we could take a ship to the people of the earth for less money than it costs us to build a temple anywhere in the United States or elsewhere. He thought that they could get this thing underway within a year and could buy the ship and rig it up for our purposes. ...
[Source: Alvin R. Dyer, minutes of a meeting with the First Presidency, President McKay's apartment, recorded in Elder Dyer's diary, Oct. 11, 1968 as quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
[Source: Alvin R. Dyer, minutes of a meeting with the First Presidency, President McKay's apartment, recorded in Elder Dyer's diary, Oct. 11, 1968 as quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
130 years ago today - Oct 11, 1883
Once after returning from a mission, he [Zebedee Coltrin] met Bro. Joseph in Kirtland, who asked him if he did not wish to go with him to a conference at New Portage. The party consisted of Prests. Joseph Smith, Sidney Rigdon, Oliver Cowdery and myself. Next morning at New Portage, he noticed that Joseph seemed to have a far off look in his eyes, or was looking at a distance, and presently he, Joseph, stepped between Brothers Cowdery, and Coltrin and taking them by the arm, said, "lets take a walk." They went to a place where there was some beautiful grass, and grapevines and swampbeech interlaced. President Joseph Smith then said, "Let us pray." They all three prayed in turn--Joseph, Oliver and Zebedee. Bro. Joseph then said, "now brethren we will see some visions." Joseph lay down on the ground on his back and stretched out his arms and the two brethren lay on them. The heavens gradually opened, and they saw a golden throne, on a circular foundation, something like a light house, and on the throne were two aged personages, having white hair, and clothed in white garments. They were the two most beautiful and perfect specimens of mankind he ever saw. Joseph said, They are our first parents, Adam and Eve. Adam was a large broad shouldered man, and Eve as a woman, was as large in proportion.
[Source: Salt Lake School of the Prophet, Minutes, 1883, pp. 69-70; CHO CR/390/1/Box 1, Oct 11, 1883. The following account took place on 7 May 1834 at New Portage, Ohio which is about 50 miles from Kirtland, Ohio. See where the Prophet went here in HC 2:64 & Life of Joseph Smith the Prophet, by G. Q. Cannon, p. 173. See also quotation #3. as quoted in "Concepts Quotations Dealing With the Origin, Identity Position of Adam Eve"]
[Source: Salt Lake School of the Prophet, Minutes, 1883, pp. 69-70; CHO CR/390/1/Box 1, Oct 11, 1883. The following account took place on 7 May 1834 at New Portage, Ohio which is about 50 miles from Kirtland, Ohio. See where the Prophet went here in HC 2:64 & Life of Joseph Smith the Prophet, by G. Q. Cannon, p. 173. See also quotation #3. as quoted in "Concepts Quotations Dealing With the Origin, Identity Position of Adam Eve"]
130 years ago today - Oct 11, 1883
[Franklin D. Richards] Pres[iden]t [John] Taylor-he asked Zebedee Coltrin-the only one living in the Church who was a member of the first School of P[rophets]. in Kirtland [Ohio] in 1833-related visions of Father & the Son appearing to them-of seeing the Heavens opened & with Joseph [Smith] & Oliver [Cowdery] seeing Adam & Eve on a glorious throne also of Reynolds Cahoon transparency [sic?].
[Source: Franklin D. Richards, Diary]
[Source: Franklin D. Richards, Diary]
130 years ago today - Oct 11, 1883
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] Zebedee Coltrin related a vision in the Temple in Kirtland After the school of the Prophets was organized. He said while sitting in Council a personage passed through the room dressed in usual Clothing. Joseph said that was the Savior. Soon another personage passed through the House Clothed in fire. His features & feet were visable but his body was wrapted in flames. Joseph said that was God the Father. He said He was with Joseph & another Man in the woods praying and Heavens was opened and they saw a Man sitting upon a Throne whose hair was white as wool & a woman sitting beside of him Both dressed in white. Joseph said it was Adam & Eve.
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
190 years ago today - Oct 11, 1823
[Oliver Cowdery] Sidney Rigdon was condemned for heresy and removed from his pastorate at the Pittsburgh First Baptist Church by representatives of his congregation and of its governing Redstone Baptist Association.
[Source: Broadhurst, Dale R., Oliver Cowdery Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/Cdychrn1.htm]
[Source: Broadhurst, Dale R., Oliver Cowdery Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/Cdychrn1.htm]
50 years ago today - Oct 10, 1963
[Quorum of the Twelve] Thomas S. Monson ordained.
[Source: Wikipedia, Chronology of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (LDS Church), http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_the_Quorum_of_the_Twelve_Apostles_(LDS_Church)]
[Source: Wikipedia, Chronology of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (LDS Church), http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_the_Quorum_of_the_Twelve_Apostles_(LDS_Church)]
105 years ago today - Saturday, Oct 10, 1908
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] The Resolution in favor of Woman Sufrage presented by Mrs. Craig was passed. I spoke in favor of 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]
[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]
110 years ago today - Saturday, Oct 10, 1903
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] On Saturday I talked with Lydia in relation to the subject of plural marriage, and she expressed a willingness for me to take another wife provided that I should not take the step without her knowledge. I assured her that in case such a step were taken she should be fully advised.
[Source: Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson]
[Source: Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson]
130 years ago today - Oct 10, 1883
[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] The prests of Stakes and Bros Henry Eyring & Geo Reynolds joined us and Prest Taylor instructed the brethren with reference to the organization of the School of the Prophets.
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
180 years ago today - (Thr) Oct 10, 1833
Construction on the Kirtland Temple was suspended and work began on the new Church office building just west of the Temple
[Source: Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]
[Source: Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]
5 years ago today - 10/9/2008
[Same-Sex Marriage] The Mormon Times reports about the Oct. 8th broadcast, stating: Elders Ballard and Cook stressed that members need to remain civil and respectful in their conversations about the issue. "There are good people who disagree with the church's teaching on marriage," Elder Cook said. "There are (also) faithful, temple worthy members of the church who struggle with this great challenge, often in silence, fear and great pain."
[Source: Mormons for Marriage: A Prop 8 Timeline, http://mormonsformarriage.com/?page_id=68]
[Source: Mormons for Marriage: A Prop 8 Timeline, http://mormonsformarriage.com/?page_id=68]
115 years ago today - Sunday, Oct 9, 1898
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Salt Lake City
President George Q. Cannon presented the Authoraties and the Apostles voted ... All were unanimous but in the case of John W. Taylor. Some few voted against him for remarks made on Friday about Kamas Ward and the Salt Lake Tabernacle Choir.
Bro. John W. Taylor at the close of the meeting met with the choir and arranged his trouble with them.
[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]
President George Q. Cannon presented the Authoraties and the Apostles voted ... All were unanimous but in the case of John W. Taylor. Some few voted against him for remarks made on Friday about Kamas Ward and the Salt Lake Tabernacle Choir.
Bro. John W. Taylor at the close of the meeting met with the choir and arranged his trouble with them.
[Source: Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith]
115 years ago today - Oct 9, 1898
[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] [Nine years after the manifesto] Gusta, my cousin Anthony W. Ivins and I chatted until 1115 Speaking of plural marriage he said there were quite a number of them being performed in Mexico. Said he was on hand and willing to take another wife if his brethren felt that it was the wisest thing to do under all the circumstances. He had no desire for another wife, but at the same time had a strong desire to [not] to [sic] fail in doing any duty devolving upon him and he wanted me and my fellow apostles to know that he was on hand to perform any and every duty required of him.
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
130 years ago today - Oct 9, 1883
In several hours of meeting with stake presidents, First Presidency and apostles give instructions about "Masturbation...self-pollution of both sexes and excessive sexual indulgence in the married relation." This is the first-known Mormon reference to female masturbation.
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
160 years ago today - Oct 9, 1853 (Afternoon, Conference)
[Brigham Young Sermon] ... Nine tenths of those who come into this Church are the pure blood of Israel, the greater portion being purely of the blood of Ephraim. ... Those who are Gentiles in our midst, have numbered themselves with Israel through the ordinances of the Gospel... You will never see a man called to preside in the Priesthood of God on the earth who is not purely of the blood of Abraham. You may set every man down to be a pure descendant of Abraham, who holds a position in this Kingdom, and holds the keys of, and officiates in, the ordinances of the Holy Priesthood. Either God has not called him, or he is a pure offspring of faithful Abraham. ...
[Source: The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
[Source: The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
165 years ago today - Oct 9, 1848
Arsonists burned Nauvoo Temple.
[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]
[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]
170 years ago today - Oct 09, 1843
Joseph Smith speaks at the funeral services of James Adams and remarks, "Could you gaze into heaven five minutes, you would know more than you would by reading all that ever was written on the subject" (History of the Church, 6:50).
[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]
[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]
175 years ago today - Oct 9, 1838
[Joseph Smith] Mr. Caldwell, who took the Saints' plea for help to the governor, returns with the governor's reply that because the quarrel is between the mob and the Mormons, they might "fight it out" on their own. Captain Samuel Bogart, a former mobber, is placed in control of the militia forces. Several of the Saints start to fight back against the mob.
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
5 years ago today - October 8
[Same-Sex Marriage] The Associated Press reported that "Mormons Recruit Out-of-State for Gay Marriage Ban. Mormons living outside California have been asked to volunteer for a telephone campaign to help pass a ballot initiative banning same-sex marriage in the state."
[Source: Latter-Day Army: Details of Mormons and Prop 8, http://www.stopthemormons.com/?p=486]
[Source: Latter-Day Army: Details of Mormons and Prop 8, http://www.stopthemormons.com/?p=486]
60 years ago today - 1953. October 8
(Richard L. Evans) : Called to the Quorum of the Twelve by President David O. McKay. His committee responsibilities included Church magazines, Temple Square activities, world fair exhibits and other Church information centers, the Tabernacle Choir and the Choir broadcast, general conference broadcasts, the Hill Cumorah pageant, Church historical sites, management of Church communications, public relations, publications, translation and distribution, and temple ceremonies.
[Source: Van Wagoner, Richard and Walker, Steven C., A Book of Mormons, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Van Wagoner, Richard and Walker, Steven C., A Book of Mormons, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
130 years ago today - Oct 8, 1883
[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] Yesterday morning I made it a subject of prayer as to who I should endeavor to secure for a second wife I felt that the time had come when I should again make an attempt to practice plural marriage.
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
170 years ago today - Oct 8, 1843
Amasa M Lyman: "anointed" second counselor 1 Oct. 1843 to replace Sidney Rigdon but general conference 8 Oct. 1843 refused to drop Sidney Rigdon
[Source: Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 6, Biographical Sketches of General Officers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]
[Source: Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 6, Biographical Sketches of General Officers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]
170 years ago today - October 8th 1843
Spirits can only be revealed in flaming fire or glory. Angels have advanced further, their light and glory being tabernacled; and hence they appear in bodily shape. The spirits of just men are made ministering servants to those who are sealed unto life eternal, and it is through them that the sealing power comes down.
Patriarch Adams is now one of the spirits of the just men made perfect; and if revealed now, must be revealed in fire; and the glory could not be endured. Jesus showed Himself to His disciples, and they thought it was His spirit, and they were afraid to approach His spirit. Angels have advanced higher in knowledge and power than spirits. [History of the Church, 6:51, Joseph Smith, Sunday, October 8th 1843; TPJS, p. 325.]
[Source: Paper, "Concepts Quotations Dealing With the Origin, Identity Position of Adam Eve"]
Patriarch Adams is now one of the spirits of the just men made perfect; and if revealed now, must be revealed in fire; and the glory could not be endured. Jesus showed Himself to His disciples, and they thought it was His spirit, and they were afraid to approach His spirit. Angels have advanced higher in knowledge and power than spirits. [History of the Church, 6:51, Joseph Smith, Sunday, October 8th 1843; TPJS, p. 325.]
[Source: Paper, "Concepts Quotations Dealing With the Origin, Identity Position of Adam Eve"]
170 years ago today - Oct 8, 1843
[Anointed Quorum] Sunday evening prayer circle at Mansion House; anointing and endowment ceremony for Harriet Denton (Adams), Elizabeth Ann Smith (Whitney), Clarissa Lyman (Smith), and Lucy Mack (Smith); second anointing for Hyrum and Mary Smith . Emma Smith probably performed the ordinances for the women.
[Source: Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Signature Books, 1994, Appendex: Meetings and Initiations of the Anointed Quorum, 1842-45, http://amzn.to/origins-power]
[Source: Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Signature Books, 1994, Appendex: Meetings and Initiations of the Anointed Quorum, 1842-45, http://amzn.to/origins-power]
5 years ago today - 10/7/2008
[Same-Sex Marriage] "Ryan" who lives in Utah posts comment to blog and states he was in a propaganda video shot by the Mormon church with LDS leader Elder Bednar. He also says, "I live in Utah (though I'm from California) and the church has asked my stake to have 250 member ready to man a call center on the subject." There is no record that the Church paid for any phone banking from Utahns, but Lawrence Research (headed by Gary Lawrence) paid Voter Link of Highland, UT $20,495.38 for phone banking. The Melaleuca company in Rexburg, ID was also involved in phone banking, allowing Idahoans to use its facilities to call California voters.
[Source: Mormons for Marriage: A Prop 8 Timeline, http://mormonsformarriage.com/?page_id=68]
[Source: Mormons for Marriage: A Prop 8 Timeline, http://mormonsformarriage.com/?page_id=68]
65 years ago today - Oct 7, 1948
[Thomas S. Monson] Married Frances Johnson in the Salt Lake Temple.
[Source: Deseret News, Timeline: Thomas S. Monson, http://www.deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,695250351,00.html]
[Source: Deseret News, Timeline: Thomas S. Monson, http://www.deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,695250351,00.html]
70 years ago today - Oct 7, 1943
At 10:00 A.M. the Twelve met the [First] Presidency in their office in the Church offices building and Pres[ident] [Heber J.] Grant ordained Spencer Kimball and Ezra T. Benson apostles and set them apart members of the quorum of the Twelve. We then repaired to the Temple excepting Pres[ident] Grant & Pres[ident] [J. Reuben] Clark, the latter being out of the State. By request of Pres[ident] [David O.] McKay, I instructed the brethren on the tokens &c.
[Source: George F. Richards diary, as quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
[Source: George F. Richards diary, as quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
115 years ago today - Oct 7, 1898
[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] F D Richards ... In his opinion wars are necessary for the establishing of Gods work in the land (referred to American Revolution, Civil War opened South to missionary work, Franco-Prussion had Germany) ... [Lorenzo Snow:] When we were in great trouble over plural marriages Pres[iden]t Woodruffs' counselors desired him to go and ask the mind and will of the Lord and he had done so and the result was that the Manifesto was given to Pres[iden]t Woodruff. But for the Lord giving to us His mind and will Pres[iden]t Snow said he was sure the saints would have felt like going on practicing plural marriages and suffering the consequences. The Lord many times reveals things that we cannot explain and at the time do not understand.
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
150 years ago today - Oct 7, 1863 (Afternoon, Conference)
[Brigham Young Sermon] ...Joseph Smith that now is living in the state of Illinois, the son of Joseph the Prophet, will never lead the Latter-day Saints; he may lead apostates, and will lead them to hell. ... Long before his death Joseph [Smith Jr.] said to me, '"I shall have a son born to me and his name shall be called David; and on him in some future time will rest the responsibility that now rests upon me.'" ... If Joseph Smith was a prophet we will take his words for what they are worth. If he was not a prophet then are we deceived and our professions and testimonies related to the Kingdom of God are void. There is now considerable whispering among us concerning the Josephites [RLDS or Community of Christ] as they are called. What are they? They are apostates. .... [if there were a revelation] that revelation will dictate that son of Joseph to come directly to your humble servant, Brigham Young. And I will be as ready to receive him as any man that lives on this earth....
[Source: The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
[Source: The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
165 years ago today - Oct 7, 1848
Brigham Young instructs his special counselor, Presiding Patriarch John Smith, to select men to go to California on "Gold Mission" for church. Among "Forty-Niners" who travel to California are about fifty gold-digging Mormon missionaries.
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
5 years ago today - October 6
[Same-Sex Marriage] Mormon blogs about "zealousness" about Prop 8 within Mormon congregations and says "many bishops and other Mormons have circulated the document 'Six Consequences if Proposition 8 fails'" and expresses distress about the honesty of the claims.
[Source: Latter-Day Army: Details of Mormons and Prop 8, http://www.stopthemormons.com/?p=486]
[Source: Latter-Day Army: Details of Mormons and Prop 8, http://www.stopthemormons.com/?p=486]
50 years ago today - Oct 6, 1963
First Counselor Hugh B. Brown reads statement in favor of full civil rights for all people. BYU's president comments, "This was obviously in response to request that had come to the First Presidency from the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People [NAACP]."
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
65 years ago today - Oct 6, 1948
[President George Albert Smith Journal] "My nerves are giving me some discomfort as a result of exhaustion."
[Source: Journals of George Albert Smith]
[Source: Journals of George Albert Smith]
75 years ago today - Oct 6, 1938
[President Heber J. Grant Diary] I then called Richard L. Evans to come to my office, and told him of his selection to be one of the Seven Presidents of the Seventies. I could see that he was very much disappointed. I had a confidential talk with him and learned that it had undoubtedly been suggested to him. He did not say. He said he told his brother the one and only place of authority in all the Church that he hoped he would never be called to fill is one for the Seven Presidents of the Seventies.
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
130 years ago today - Oct 6, 1883
King David Kalakaua speaks at LDS conference in Laie, Oahu, Hawaii. He is first reighning monarch to speak at Mormon meeting. King Kalakaua's premier (1882-87) is Walter Murray Gibson, former Mormon.
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
140 years ago today - Oct 6, 1873
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] President Young spoke upon the Babylonian fashion in our Midst upon the Cooperative principles & the Tithing & the Temple. He said those who did not pay their tithing & sustain the cooperative Store would Apostitize. Write it down & watch the result.
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
150 years ago today - Oct 6, 1863
[Brigham Young, Oct. 6, 1863 , Journal of Discourses, 10:251 ] There are some of the sealing ordinances that cannot be administered in the house [Endowment House] that we are now using; we can only administer in it some of the first ordinances of the Priesthood pertaining to the endowment. There are more advanced ordinances that cannot be administered there; we would, therefore, like a Temple, but I am willing to wait a few years for it. I want to see the Temple built in a manner that it will endure through the Millennium. This is not the only Temple we shall build; There will be hundreds of them built and dedicated to the Lord. This Temple [in Salt Lake City] will be known as the first Temple built in the mountains by the Latter-day Saints. And when the Millennium is over, and all the sons and daughters of Adam and Eve, down to the last of their posterity, who come within the reach of the clemency of the Gospel, have been redeemed in hundreds of Temples through the administration of their children as proxies for them, I want that Temple still to stand as a proud monument of the faith, perseverance and industry of the Saints of God in the mountains, in the nineteenth century.
[Source: Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
[Source: Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
150 years ago today - Oct 6, 1863
Brigham Young prophesies to general conference: "Will the present struggle [of the U.S. Civil War] free the slaves? No..... and men will be called to judgment for the way they have treated the negro." U.S. president Abraham Lincoln has already signed on Jun 20, 1862 law which prohibits slavery in all federal territories, and this emancipates the few dozen slaves in Utah. On Jan 1, 1863 Lincoln has also issued his proclamation which emancipated all slaves in Confederacy but does not free slaves in Maryland, West Virginia, Kentucky, and Missouri. The 13th Amendment legally ends slavery in the United States in 1865.
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
170 years ago today - 6 October 1843, Friday
[William Clayton Writings] ... At this conference charges were again preferred against the temple committee, and a public investigation was entered into; ...
He stated that the Temple Apostles were not about to go East to raise means for the temple and also for the Nauvoo House. He suggested that they give bonds to the amount of two thousand dollars each; and that this rule be enforced upon all the Elders from this time forward. ...
During this conference, also, Elder Sidney Rigdon was tried for his fellowship, charged with a long course of conduct which rendered him unworthy of a place in the Church. President Joseph told the Saints that he had carried Elder Rigdon long enough and that he should do so no more. But notwithstanding this, the Patriarch Hyrum pleaded for mercy in Sidney's behalf; and the conference voted to sustain Elder Rigdon in his position as counsellor to the First Presidency.
[Source: Fillerup, Robert C., compiler; William Clayton Nauvoo Diaries and Personal Writings, A chronological compilation of the personal writings of William Clayton while he was a resident of Nauvoo, Illinois. http://www.boap.org/LDS/Early-Saints/clayton-diaries]
He stated that the Temple Apostles were not about to go East to raise means for the temple and also for the Nauvoo House. He suggested that they give bonds to the amount of two thousand dollars each; and that this rule be enforced upon all the Elders from this time forward. ...
During this conference, also, Elder Sidney Rigdon was tried for his fellowship, charged with a long course of conduct which rendered him unworthy of a place in the Church. President Joseph told the Saints that he had carried Elder Rigdon long enough and that he should do so no more. But notwithstanding this, the Patriarch Hyrum pleaded for mercy in Sidney's behalf; and the conference voted to sustain Elder Rigdon in his position as counsellor to the First Presidency.
[Source: Fillerup, Robert C., compiler; William Clayton Nauvoo Diaries and Personal Writings, A chronological compilation of the personal writings of William Clayton while he was a resident of Nauvoo, Illinois. http://www.boap.org/LDS/Early-Saints/clayton-diaries]
100 years ago today - Oct 5, 1913
Heber J. Grant preaches: "I seldom hear a hymn written by Sister Eliza R. Snow sung in any of our meetings, or sing one myself, that I do not thank God for the gift of tongues to that noble woman. She gave to me a blessing when I was a child, predicting incidents in my life, promising me that I should grow to manhood and become one of the leaders in the Church of Christ, Sister Zina D. Young giving the interpretation."
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
170 years ago today - Oct 5, 1843
Concerning "the doctrine of plurality of wives," JosephSmith's manuscript diary reads: "Joseph forbids it and the practice thereof. No man shall have but one wife." HISTORY OF THE CHURCH, 6:46 makes an addition which reverses this absolute denial.
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
120 years ago today - Oct 5, 1893
[Apostle Franklin D. Richards Diary] Pres[iden]t GQ Cannon HB Clawson and Nephi Clayton were in from California. Representatives in Congress passed the Bill to return to the Church the personal property which they plundered us of $450,000 dollars more or less.
[Source: Diary Excerpts of Franklin D. Richards, 1887-1897, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Diary Excerpts of Franklin D. Richards, 1887-1897, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
50 years ago today - Oct 4, 1963
Thomas S. Monson is sustained to Quorum of the Twelve at age thirty-six, youngest man ordained apostle since Joseph Fielding Smith at age thirty-three in 1910. Monson is first World War II veteran to servea s apostle and also first general authority with a Master of Business Administration. As of 1996 Other general authorities with MBA or other graduate degree in business are Robert D. Hales (appointed in 1975), Gene R. Cook (1975), John H. Groberg (1976), Ronald E. Poelman (1978), Henry B. Eyring (1985), Glen L. Pace (1985), Helio R. Camargo (1985), Monte J. Brough (1988), Albert Choules, Jr. (1988), Joseph C. Muren (1991), Stephen D. Nadauld (1991), Dallas N. Archibald (1992), John E. Fowler (1992), V. Dallas Merrel (1992), H. David Burton (1992), Richard C. Edgley (1992), Neil L. Andersen (1993), Dieter F. Uchtdorf (1994).
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
50 years ago today - Oct 4, 1963
Nathan Eldon Tanner: Second counselor to David O. McKay in First Presidency 4 October 1963-18 January 1970.
[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]
[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]
60 years ago today - Oct 04, 1953
General conference is televised live from Salt Lake City to locations outside the Intermountain West for the first time.
[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]
[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]
80 years ago today - Oct 4, 1933
[President Heber J. Grant Diary] We decided on ... John H. Taylor to fill the vacancy in the First Council of the Seventy. Brothers John H. Taylor and Oscar A. Kirkham each received four or five votes from the brethren... Personally, I made no suggestions to anybody in favor of John H. Taylor, and I am very glad indeed that the brethren felt to call him to this position. ... I am very happy indeed that my son-in-law has been considered worthy to become one of the General Authorities of the Church.
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
95 years ago today - Oct 4, 1918
President Joseph F. Smith [announces that he has received] D&C 138 by revelation, concerning the afterlife and the ministry of Jesus Christ in that world during his three days death.
[Source: Wikipedia, 20th Century (Mormonism), http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century_(Mormonism)]
[Source: Wikipedia, 20th Century (Mormonism), http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century_(Mormonism)]
120 years ago today - Oct 4, 1893
[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] Moses Thatcher ... related that he had had something in the nature of a vision wherein he had seen a personage who was thin and very repulsive and another which was very beautiful and he was impressed with the feeling that death to him at this time in his life was not desireable but that it was very desirable for him to live and he had been impressed with faith by this impression ...
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
130 years ago today - Oct 4, 1883
[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] In the afternoon attended a Council meeting in Prest Taylor's office--A revelation given to Prst Taylor last April was read. It was voted that the Trustee in Trust loan to Prests Taylor & Cannon $25,000[.]00 for such time and with such securities, as he may think proper.
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
170 years ago today - Oct 3, 1843
Joseph Smith opened the Mansion House to the public with a memorable dinner party for "more than one hundred couple [sic]." Notices of the occasion prepared for publication in the Nauvoo Neighbor reports that "General Joseph Smith, the proprietor of said house, provided a luxurious feast for a pleasure party; and all having partaken of the luxuries of a well spread board, the cloth was removed, and a committee appointed to draft resolutions suitable to the occasion."
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
130 years ago today - Oct 3, 1883
[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] In the morning called at Prst Taylor's office--met some of our quourm [sic]. Prests Taylor & Cannon and a number of other brethren, among them Zebedee Coltrin He is the only living member of the brethren that were admitted to the School of the Prophets on the day of its organization. He related some of the interesting manifestations they had had in some of their meetings, among others he related the appearance of our Heavenly Father and his son Jesus Christ. ...
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
180 years ago today - about (Wed) Oct 3, 1833
Oliver Cowdery left Kirtland with $800 to purchase a new printing press and type for the Church. His destination was probably Canandaigua, New York.
[Source: Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]
[Source: Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]
170 years ago today - Oct 3, 1843
[Brigham Young] ... dined at Brother J. B. Nicholson's, and in the evening partook of an oyster supper at Mr. Jeffrey's, who undertook to get us drunk, but only succeeded in intoxicating himself. We consecrated several bottles of oil.
[Source: Manuscript History of Brigham Young, 1801-1844, ed. Elden Jay Watson (Salt Lake City: Smith Secretarial Service, 1968).]
[Source: Manuscript History of Brigham Young, 1801-1844, ed. Elden Jay Watson (Salt Lake City: Smith Secretarial Service, 1968).]
130 years ago today - Oct 3, 1883
[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] In the morning called at Prst Taylor's office--met some of our quourm [sic]. Prests Taylor & Cannon and a number of other brethren, among them Zebedee Coltrin He is the only living member of the brethren that were admitted to the School of the Prophets on the day of its organization. He related some of the interesting manifestations they had had in some of their meetings, among others he related the appearance of our Heavenly Father and his son Jesus Christ. ...
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
170 years ago today - Oct 3, 1843
A gala dinner party is held at the grand opening of the Nauvoo Mansion. One hundred couples attend. The guests unanimously approve a series of resolutions made at the party, including tributes to "General Joseph Smith, whether we view him as a Prophet at the head of the Church, a General at the head of the Legion, a Mayor at the head of the City Council, or as a landlord at the head of his table, if he has equals, he has no superiors." Toasts are also made to the 15,000 citizens of Nauvoo, the Nauvoo Legion, the Nauvoo Charter, and Gov. Thomas Ford. (History of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (7 volumes) 6:42-43.)
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
25 years ago today - Oct 2, 1988
Michaelene P Grassli, general Primary President, is first woman to speak in general conference in 133 years.
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
130 years ago today - Oct 2, 1883
Bishop Orson R. Whitney begins participating in regular spiritualistic seances about this date. In 1889 Twele learns of this activity, reverses its decision to call Witney as new apostle, yet allows Whitney to remain bishop. Among those who attend these seances are Arthur and Charles Stayner and Maud May Babcock. Bishop Whitney continues to participate until 1900.
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
175 years ago today - Oct 2, 1838
[Joseph Smith] The "Kirtland Camp" arrives in Far West, after traveling 3 months through difficult conditions.
[Source: Wikipedia, Joseph Smith Chronology, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_Joseph_Smith,_Jr.]
[Source: Wikipedia, Joseph Smith Chronology, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_Joseph_Smith,_Jr.]
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