Wilbur Fugate swears to an affidavit concerning the origin of the "Kinderhook Plates:" "they are a HUMBUG, gotten up by Robert Wiley, Bridge Whitton and myself. . . . We read in Pratt's prophecy that 'Truth is yet to spring out of the earth.' We concluded to prove the prophecy by way of a joke. . . . Bridge Whitton cut them out of some pieces of copper; Wiley and I made the hieroglyphics by making impressions on beeswax and filling them with acid and putting it on the plates. . . . Our plans worked admirably. . . .On the following morning quite a number of citizens were there to assist in the search, there being two Mormon elders present (Marsh and Sharp). . . . The Mormons wanted to take the plates to Joe Smith, but we refused to let them go. Some time afterward a man assuming the name of Savage, of Quincy, borrowed the plates of Wiley to show to his literary friends there, and took them to Joe Smith
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com, based on Michael Quinn's Mormon Hierarchy vols 1 & 2]
100 years ago today - Jun 30, 1914; Tuesday
This evening's papers announce the closing down of the "Dream Mine", near Salem, Utah. I regard this as a good occurrence in view of the conditions under which so many people have been deceived in connection with this ill-directed enterprise.
[Source: James E. Talmage, Diary]
[Source: James E. Talmage, Diary]
120 years ago today - Jun 30, 1894
[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] Some months ago I made a covenant with Him that I would devote nine tenths of all the profits which I might make from mining for a period of ten years to the Church as Tithing and that I would retain but one tenth of these profits for my own use. Inasmuch as I have not made a dolar in mining as yet and also seeing that I would get the credit on the tithing books for all such sums in case I were to make anyting from mining I have today in my prayers made a covenant to give all such sums for such purposes as the Presidency of the Church of some of the Apostles may direct instead of taking credit on tithing.
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
170 years ago today - Jun 30, 1844
Illinois Governor Thomas Ford orders "Colonel Fellows and Captain Jonas" to go to Nauvoo "and ascertain what is the feeling, the disposition, and determination of the people there, . . . ascertain whether any of them propose in any manner to revenge themselves, whether any threats have been used, and what is proposed generally, to be done by them." He orders them then to go to nearby Warsaw to ascertain "whether any attack is intended on Nauvoo. . . . [A]nd in my name forbid any such interference, without my request, on pain of being demanded for punishment."
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com, based on Michael Quinn's Mormon Hierarchy vols 1 & 2]
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com, based on Michael Quinn's Mormon Hierarchy vols 1 & 2]
170 years ago today - Jun 30, 1844
[Letter from Vilate Kimball to Heber C. Kimball regarding the death of Joseph & Hyrum Smith] My Dear Dear Companion
Never before, did I take up my pen
to address you under so trying circumstances as we are now placed
but as Br Adams the bearer of this can tell you more than I can write
I shall not attempt to discribe [describe] the scene that we have passed through
God forbid that I should ever witness another like unto it
I saw the lifeless corpes [corpse] of our beloved brethren when they
were brought to their almost distracted families. yea I witnessed
their tears and groans which was enough to rend the heart of an
adamant. every brother and sister that [ ] witnessed the scene fe[lt]
deeply to simpathyze [symphonize] with them. yea, every heart is filled with
sorrow, and the very streets of Nauvoo seam to morn. whare [where]
it will end the Lord only knows. we are kept awake night after
night by the alarm of mobs. these apostates say, their damnation
is sealed their die is cast, their doom is fixed. and they are
determined to do all in their power to have revenge. ...
[Source: Letter from Vilate Kimball to Heber C. Kimball]
Never before, did I take up my pen
to address you under so trying circumstances as we are now placed
but as Br Adams the bearer of this can tell you more than I can write
I shall not attempt to discribe [describe] the scene that we have passed through
God forbid that I should ever witness another like unto it
I saw the lifeless corpes [corpse] of our beloved brethren when they
were brought to their almost distracted families. yea I witnessed
their tears and groans which was enough to rend the heart of an
adamant. every brother and sister that [ ] witnessed the scene fe[lt]
deeply to simpathyze [symphonize] with them. yea, every heart is filled with
sorrow, and the very streets of Nauvoo seam to morn. whare [where]
it will end the Lord only knows. we are kept awake night after
night by the alarm of mobs. these apostates say, their damnation
is sealed their die is cast, their doom is fixed. and they are
determined to do all in their power to have revenge. ...
[Source: Letter from Vilate Kimball to Heber C. Kimball]
185 years ago today - ca. late June 1829
[Lucy Mack Smith] Traditional date for the restoration of the Melchizedek priesthood by Peter, James, and John.
[Source: Anderson, Lavina Fielding, Editor, Lucy's Book: A Critical Edition of Lucy Mack Smith's Family Memoir, 2001, Signature Books, http://bit.ly/lucys-book]
[Source: Anderson, Lavina Fielding, Editor, Lucy's Book: A Critical Edition of Lucy Mack Smith's Family Memoir, 2001, Signature Books, http://bit.ly/lucys-book]
185 years ago today - Circa Jun 30, 1829
According to David Whitmer, the [Book of Mormon] translation is completed by 1 July 1829 , or in late June.
[Source: Vogel, Dan, Early Mormon Documents, Appendix B: Chronology, 1771-1831, http://amzn.to/T5nY8w]
[Source: Vogel, Dan, Early Mormon Documents, Appendix B: Chronology, 1771-1831, http://amzn.to/T5nY8w]
150 years ago today - Jun 29, 1864
[Brigham Young Sermon] I will detain the people but a very short time. The matters which have been laid before you this afternoon are inseparably connected with our spiritual well-being. There is no man on this earth who can receive the Kingdom of God in his heart and be governed according to the laws of that Kingdom, without being governed and controled in all temporal matters. If you are not of one heart and mind in these things, never think of Jackson county, for you will not be wanted there....
As fast as possible, secure a year's supply of breadstuff, and then try to sustain yourselves without using any of that supply; and take the same course in the harvests of 1865-6-7, and so on, until you have a supply for seven years, then you are prepared either for a famine of that duration, or to feed the thousands who will come here hungry.
[Source: Journal of Discourses. Liverpool, England, 1853-86, 10:338; Deseret News; Also Deseret Evening News, Deseret News Weekly, Deseret News Semi- Weekly, and Deseret News Extra, Salt Lake City as quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
As fast as possible, secure a year's supply of breadstuff, and then try to sustain yourselves without using any of that supply; and take the same course in the harvests of 1865-6-7, and so on, until you have a supply for seven years, then you are prepared either for a famine of that duration, or to feed the thousands who will come here hungry.
[Source: Journal of Discourses. Liverpool, England, 1853-86, 10:338; Deseret News; Also Deseret Evening News, Deseret News Weekly, Deseret News Semi- Weekly, and Deseret News Extra, Salt Lake City as quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
170 years ago today - Jun 29, 1844
The bodies [of Hyrum & Joseph] are ... removed from the caskets in private, bags of sand are put in their places, and the caskets are closed. A public funeral is held, with W. W. Phelps preaching the sermon. The caskets are buried in a prominent place. Around midnight the coffins containing the real bodies are buried in the basement of the unfinished Nauvoo House. The ground is smoothed over to hide the actual place, and a rainstorm that night helps eradicate the footprints completely. This is all done to prevent the desecration of the bodies by enemies. (In the fall, the bodies were moved and buried side by side near the Mansion. The bodies of Joseph's and Hyrum's deceased children were soon moved to be next to them.) ___
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
170 years ago today - 1844. June 29
W. W. Phelps addressed the nearly ten thousand persons gathered to pay final respects to Joseph and Hyrum Smith two days after their murder. In his lengthy sermon at this memorial service, Phelps predicted: "Be assured, brethren and sisters, this desperate 'smite' of our foes to stop the onward cause of Mormonism, will increase its spread and prosperity an hundred fold ... The priesthood remains unharmed. … The 'Twelve' (most now absent) … when they return will turn the 'mantle' and step into the 'shoes' of the 'Prophet, priest and King' of Israel."
Phelps's hymn, "Praise to the Man," is a eulogy of continuing popularity in the Church.
[Source: Van Wagoner, Richard and Walker, Steven C., A Book of Mormons, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
Phelps's hymn, "Praise to the Man," is a eulogy of continuing popularity in the Church.
[Source: Van Wagoner, Richard and Walker, Steven C., A Book of Mormons, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
170 years ago today - Jun 29, 1844
Illinois governor Thomas Ford calls for the state militia in eleven counties to "proceed by voluntary enlistment to enrol as many men as can be armed in their respective regiments. They will make arrangements for a campaign of twelve days, and will provide themselves with arms, ammunition, and provisions accordingly, and hold themselves in readiness immediately to march upon the receipt of further orders."
Ford is worried that Mormons will attack Carthage in retaliation for Joseph Smith's assassination. In Nauvoo thousands pass by the bodies of Joseph and Hyrum. The Nauvoo Legion "was paraded and stationed in different parts of the City apprehending an attack by the enemy."
Ford is worried that Mormons will attack Carthage in retaliation for Joseph Smith's assassination. In Nauvoo thousands pass by the bodies of Joseph and Hyrum. The Nauvoo Legion "was paraded and stationed in different parts of the City apprehending an attack by the enemy."
180 years ago today - Jun 29, 1834
(Zion's Camp) A. S. Gilbert dies from the cholera. Although a faithful Saint, Gilbert lacked self-confidence concerning his public-speaking abilities, and had recently said that he would "rather die than go forth to preach the Gospel to the Gentiles." (History of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (7 volumes) 2:1 18-19.)
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
185 years ago today - 1829. June 29
(Hyrum Smith) : Baptized by Joseph Smith in Seneca Lake, New York. He later became one of the Eight Witnesses to the Book of Mormon.
[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]
140 years ago today - Jun 28, 1874 (Morning)
[Brigham Young Sermon] President Young spoke 18 Minutes'-He said all the virgins had been asleep 40 years & Just beginning to wake up & were wondering what New thing had Come in the United Order. -- Brigham City, Utah
[Source: Wilford WoodruffÂ's Journal. 9 Vols. Scott G. Kenney, ed. Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1983-85. 7:187 as quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
[Source: Wilford WoodruffÂ's Journal. 9 Vols. Scott G. Kenney, ed. Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1983-85. 7:187 as quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
140 years ago today - Jun 28, 1874 (Afternoon)
[Brigham Young Sermon] ... when the thousand years of rest shall come and thousands and thousands of Temples shall be built, and the servants and handmaids of the Lord shall have entered therein and officiated for themselves, and for their dead friends back to the days of Adam; when the last of the spirits in prison who will receive the Gospel has received it; when the Savior comes and receives his ready bride, and all who can be are saved in the various kingdoms of God'"celestial, terrestrial and telestial, according to their several capacities and opportunities; when sin and iniquity are driven from the earth, and the spirits that now float in this atmosphere are driven into the place prepared for them; and when the earth is sanctified from the effects of the fall, and baptized, cleansed, and purified by fire, and returns to its paradisiacal state, and has become like a sea of glass, a urim and thummim; when all this is done, and the Savior has presented the earth to his Father, and it is placed in the cluster of the celestial kingdom, and the Son and all his faithful brethren and sisters have received the welcome plaudit'" '"Enter ye into the joy of your Lord,'" and the Savior is crowned, then and not till then, will the Saints receive their everlasting inheritances.
... I say to my sisters in the kingdom, who are sealed to men, and who say, '"We do not want this man in eternity if he is going to conduct himself there as he does here'"'" there is not the least danger in the world of your ever seeing him in eternity or of his seeing you there if he proves himself unworthy here. But if he honors his Priesthood, and you are to blame and come short of doing your duty, and prove yourself unworthy of celestial glory, it will be left to him to do what he pleases with you. You will be very glad to get to him if you find the fault was in yourself and not in him. ...
When you want to get a bill of divorce, you had better wait and find out whether the Lord is willing to give you one or not, and not come to me. I tell the brethren and sisters, when they come to me and want a bill of divorce, that I am ready to seal people and administer in the ordinances, and they are welcome to my services, but when they undertake to break the commandments and tear to pieces the doings of the Lord, I make them give me something. I tell a man he has to give me ten dollars if he wants a divorce. For what? My services? No, for his foolishness. If you want a bill of divorce give me ten dollars, so that I can put it down in the book that such a man and such a woman have dissolved partnership. Do you think you have obtained a bill of divorce? No, nor ever can if you are faithful to the covenants you have made. It takes a higher power than a bill of divorce to take a woman from a man who is a good man and honors his Priesthood'"it must be a man who possesses a higher power in the Priesthood, or else the woman is bound to her husband, and will be forever and ever.
[Source: Journal of Discourses. Liverpool, England, 1853-86. 17:115-120; Deseret News. Also Deseret Evening News, Deseret News Weekly, Deseret News Semi- Weekly, and Deseret News Extra, Salt Lake City as quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
... I say to my sisters in the kingdom, who are sealed to men, and who say, '"We do not want this man in eternity if he is going to conduct himself there as he does here'"'" there is not the least danger in the world of your ever seeing him in eternity or of his seeing you there if he proves himself unworthy here. But if he honors his Priesthood, and you are to blame and come short of doing your duty, and prove yourself unworthy of celestial glory, it will be left to him to do what he pleases with you. You will be very glad to get to him if you find the fault was in yourself and not in him. ...
When you want to get a bill of divorce, you had better wait and find out whether the Lord is willing to give you one or not, and not come to me. I tell the brethren and sisters, when they come to me and want a bill of divorce, that I am ready to seal people and administer in the ordinances, and they are welcome to my services, but when they undertake to break the commandments and tear to pieces the doings of the Lord, I make them give me something. I tell a man he has to give me ten dollars if he wants a divorce. For what? My services? No, for his foolishness. If you want a bill of divorce give me ten dollars, so that I can put it down in the book that such a man and such a woman have dissolved partnership. Do you think you have obtained a bill of divorce? No, nor ever can if you are faithful to the covenants you have made. It takes a higher power than a bill of divorce to take a woman from a man who is a good man and honors his Priesthood'"it must be a man who possesses a higher power in the Priesthood, or else the woman is bound to her husband, and will be forever and ever.
[Source: Journal of Discourses. Liverpool, England, 1853-86. 17:115-120; Deseret News. Also Deseret Evening News, Deseret News Weekly, Deseret News Semi- Weekly, and Deseret News Extra, Salt Lake City as quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
160 years ago today - Jun 28, 1854
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] President Young nominated John Smith the oldest son of Hiram Smith for a patriarch over the whole church. It was a clear vote.
[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]
170 years ago today - After Jun 27, 1844
After her entry about the martyrdom of Joseph Smith, Leonora Taylor (wife of John Taylor) writes in large letters filling a full page the following passage laden with innuendo:
Come Joseph[,]
Don't be filling that up with boltheads[.]
How is your garden this year[?]
I'll show you some Summer Apples[,] my Lady[.]
O Dear[!]
[Source: Diary of Leonora Cannon Taylor [--] Property of Franklin D. Taylor," George J. Taylor Papers. "The Records of the Utah Humanities Research Foundation," Marriott Library, has a selectively edited, 11-page typescript of her diary which skips (without ellipses or other acknowledgement) this entry. as quoted in "Evidence For The Sexual Side of Joseph Smith's Polygamy," Comments by D. Michael Quinn on Session #2A "Reconsidering Joseph Smith's Marital Practices," Mormon History Association's Annual Conference, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, 29 June 2012 (unabbreviated version, revised during July)]
Come Joseph[,]
Don't be filling that up with boltheads[.]
How is your garden this year[?]
I'll show you some Summer Apples[,] my Lady[.]
O Dear[!]
[Source: Diary of Leonora Cannon Taylor [--] Property of Franklin D. Taylor," George J. Taylor Papers. "The Records of the Utah Humanities Research Foundation," Marriott Library, has a selectively edited, 11-page typescript of her diary which skips (without ellipses or other acknowledgement) this entry. as quoted in "Evidence For The Sexual Side of Joseph Smith's Polygamy," Comments by D. Michael Quinn on Session #2A "Reconsidering Joseph Smith's Marital Practices," Mormon History Association's Annual Conference, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, 29 June 2012 (unabbreviated version, revised during July)]
170 years ago today - Jun 28, 1844
[Nauvoo Temple] Workmen suspended work on the temple to guard the temple walls.
[Source: Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple]
[Source: Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple]
170 years ago today - Jun 28, 1844
Willard Richards and Samuel H. Smith, Joseph's brother, take the bodies of Hyrum and Joseph back to Nauvoo in two wagons. They are taken to the Nauvoo Mansion, where the doors are closed and the thousands of mourners are told they will be able to see the bodies the next day. Dimick B. Huntington, William Marks, and William D. Huntington wash the bodies and dress them in white. Emma (four months pregnant) and Mary Fielding Smith and children are then admitted to see the bodies. Emma screams and falls back, and is caught by Dimick B. Huntington. She then falls forward onto Joseph's face and kisses him, calling him by name and begging him to speak to her once more. Mary Fielding Smith holds back her grief and keeps her composure. During this time Willard Richards and several others speak to eight or ten thousand Saints who have gathered, telling them to keep the peace and trust in the law to punish the assassins of Joseph and Hyrum.
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
170 years ago today - Jun 28, 1844
The day after the martyrdom, George Cannon (father of Church leader George Q. Cannon) makes death masks of Joseph and Hyrum Smith, providing historians with a valuable source of information about the two men's facial features.
[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database' (defunct)]
[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database' (defunct)]
170 years ago today - Jun 28, 1844
In the morning Orrin Porter Rockwell rides through Nauvoo crying, "Joseph is killed! Goddamn them! They have killed him!"
The bodies of Joseph and Hyrum Smith arrive in Nauvoo at 3:00 PM. William Clayton goes to see them and remarks: "Joseph looks very natural except being pale through loss of blood. Hyrum does not look so natural. Their aged mother is distracted with grief and it will be almost more than she can bear."
Allen Stout, former Danite, writes in his journal after viewing the bodies: "I stood there and then resolved in my mind that I would never let an opportunity slip unimproved of avenging their blood.... I knew not how to contain myself, and when I see one of the men who persuaded them to give up to be tried, I feel like cutting their throats yet"
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com, based on Michael Quinn's Mormon Hierarchy vols 1 & 2]
The bodies of Joseph and Hyrum Smith arrive in Nauvoo at 3:00 PM. William Clayton goes to see them and remarks: "Joseph looks very natural except being pale through loss of blood. Hyrum does not look so natural. Their aged mother is distracted with grief and it will be almost more than she can bear."
Allen Stout, former Danite, writes in his journal after viewing the bodies: "I stood there and then resolved in my mind that I would never let an opportunity slip unimproved of avenging their blood.... I knew not how to contain myself, and when I see one of the men who persuaded them to give up to be tried, I feel like cutting their throats yet"
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com, based on Michael Quinn's Mormon Hierarchy vols 1 & 2]
185 years ago today - Circa Jun 28, 1829
Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer, and Martin Harris are shown the plates by an angel . David Whitmer said the event occurred in the "latter part" of June 1829 . Whitmer told Edward Stevenson that the vision occurred on a "Sunday" about 11:00 a.m., perhaps 28 June . Whitmer also said he was shown the plates "shortly before the completion of the translation when but a few pages left".
[Source: Vogel, Dan, Early Mormon Documents, Appendix B: Chronology, 1771-1831, http://amzn.to/T5nY8w]
[Source: Vogel, Dan, Early Mormon Documents, Appendix B: Chronology, 1771-1831, http://amzn.to/T5nY8w]
55 years ago today - Jun 27, 1959
CHURCH NEWS headlines, "Sweden's King is Reading Book of Mormon," referring to Gustav VI Adolf.
65 years ago today - Jun 27, 1949
When stake president complains to First Presidency about pari-mutual betting on horse races, "Pres. Smith said that the position of the Church has always been against horse racing on Sunday." First counselor J. Reuben Clark immediately and emphatically adds, "on any other day, too, where there is betting."
125 years ago today - Jun 27, 1889
[Franklin D. Richards] Jane [S. Richards] was baptized 7 times for restoration of her health'-once for renewal of her covenants. then for her cousins Eleanor Snyder & Ann Jane Snyder, then also for Sarah Bates Pratt as she requested Jane to do before her death.
[Source: Franklin D. Richards Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
[Source: Franklin D. Richards Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
170 years ago today - Jun 27, 1844
Lucinda Morgan Harris Smith, plural wife of Joseph Smith and widow of Masonic marter William Morgan is seen "standing at the head of Joseph Smith's body, her face covered, and her whole frame convulsed with weeping. She was the widow of William Morgan, of Masonic memory, . . . I had called on her a few days previous to this occasion, and while conversing with her, put my hand on a gilt-edged volume lying on the stand. It was 'Stearns on Masonry,' and contained the likeness of William Morgan. She said she had taken it out, and thought if the mob did come, and she was obliged to flee, or jump into the Mississippi, she would take it with her."
[Source: Grunder, Rick, Mormon Parallels: A Bibliographic Source]
[Source: Grunder, Rick, Mormon Parallels: A Bibliographic Source]
170 years ago today - Jun 27, 1844
5 p.m. - A large group of men approaches Carthage Jail disguised with blackened faces. Joseph Smith at first assumes it is the Nauvoo Legion he has secretly ordered to rescue him. However, major-general Jonathan Dunham has disobeyed orders knowing that a prison escape would beam the annihilation of Nauvoo. Instead the vigilantes storm the upstairs room, instantly killing Hyrum Smith and severely wounding John Taylor. Joseph defends himself with a pistol (smuggled in by Cyrus H. Wheelock who had a written pass from Governor Ford allowing him to go "unmolested" in and out of the jail), fatally wounding two men in the mob. He then jumps out of the window, and begins to shout the Masonic cry of distress: "Oh Lord, my God, is there no help for the widow's son?" Masons in the crowd show no mercy and prop the semi-conscious Smith against a nearby well and shoot him several times at point-blank range. The Carthage Grays arrive at the jail moments later from their encampment half a mile away. Willard Richards is the only one not killed or severely wounded. Mormons immediately attribute this to the fact that he alone wore the undergarment given to endowed persons.
170 years ago today - Jun 27, 1844
At 4:00 PM, "Hyrum read extracts from Josephus." Josephus discusses such non-biblical things as Abraham's uncle-relationship to his wife Sarai, and his teaching of arithmatic and astronomy to the Egyptians.
[Source: Grunder, Rick, Mormon Parallels: A Bibliographic Source]
[Source: Grunder, Rick, Mormon Parallels: A Bibliographic Source]
170 years ago today - Jun 27, 1844
10 a.m. - Illinois governor Thomas Ford arrives to disband the state militia, then travels with some of his troops to Nauvoo. Although he spares the city the bloody assault planned by the Illinois militia, he leaves Joseph Smith under protection of hostile Carthage Greys, knowingly enabling the assassination.
Before leaving Carthage Jail at 1:30 p.m., Stephen Markham listens as Joseph Smith says he has lost the spirit of God for disobedience in returning to Nauvoo.
Before leaving Carthage Jail at 1:30 p.m., Stephen Markham listens as Joseph Smith says he has lost the spirit of God for disobedience in returning to Nauvoo.
170 years ago today - Jun 27, 1844
...5:30 A.M. Dan Jones also records that he demanded that Ford protect Joseph because Joseph was a Master Mason, and promised that if Joseph was killed, he would testify to the world that Ford knew about it beforehand....
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
175 years ago today - Jun 27, 1839 (Thursday)
[Joseph Smith Sermon] ... This first comforter or Holy Ghost has no other effect than pure inteligence. It is more powerful in expanding the mind enlightening the understanding & storeing the intellect with present knowledge of a man who is of the literal Seed of Abraham than one that is a gentile though it may not have half as much visible effect upon the body for as the Holy Ghost falls upon one of the Literal Seed of Abraham it is calm & serene & his whole soul & body are only exercised by the pure spirit of Inteligence; while the effect of the Holy Ghost upon a Gentile is to purge out the old blood & make him actually of the seed of Abraham. That man that has none of the blood of Abraham (naturally) must have a new creation by the Holy Ghost, in such a case there may be more of a powerful effect upon the body & visible to the eye than upon an Israelite, while the Israelite at first might be far before the Gentile in pure inteligence[.]
The other Comforter spoken of is a subject of great interest & perhaps understood by few of this generation ... the Lord will soon say unto him Son thou shalt be exalted. &c When the Lord has thoroughly proved him & finds that the man is determined to serve him at all hazard. then the man will find his calling & Election made sure then it will be his privilege to receive the other Comforter which the Lord hath promised the saints as is recorded in the testimony of St John in the XIV ch from the 12th to the 27 verses Note the 16.17.18.21.23. verses. (16.vs) & I will pray the father & he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever; ...
Now what is this other Comforter? It is no more or less than the Lord Jesus Christ himself & this is the sum & substance of the whole matter, that when any man obtains this last Comforter he will have the personage of Jesus Christ to attend him or appear unto him from time to time. & even he will manifest the Father unto him & they will take up their abode with him, & the visions of the heavens will be opened unto him & the Lord will teach him face to face & he may have a perfect knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom of God, & this is the state & place the Ancient Saints arrived at when they had such glorious vision Isaiah, Ezekiel, John upon the Isle of Patmos, St Paul in the third heavens, & all the Saints who held communion with the general Assembly & Church of the First Born &c...
An Evangeslist
Is a patriarch even the oldest man of the Blood of Joseph or of the seed of Abraham, wherever the Church of Christ is established in the earth, there should be a patriarch for the benefit of the posterity of the Saints as it was with Jacob. in giving his patriarchal blessing unto his Sons &c.â€"
[Source: The Woodland Institute, http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]
The other Comforter spoken of is a subject of great interest & perhaps understood by few of this generation ... the Lord will soon say unto him Son thou shalt be exalted. &c When the Lord has thoroughly proved him & finds that the man is determined to serve him at all hazard. then the man will find his calling & Election made sure then it will be his privilege to receive the other Comforter which the Lord hath promised the saints as is recorded in the testimony of St John in the XIV ch from the 12th to the 27 verses Note the 16.17.18.21.23. verses. (16.vs) & I will pray the father & he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever; ...
Now what is this other Comforter? It is no more or less than the Lord Jesus Christ himself & this is the sum & substance of the whole matter, that when any man obtains this last Comforter he will have the personage of Jesus Christ to attend him or appear unto him from time to time. & even he will manifest the Father unto him & they will take up their abode with him, & the visions of the heavens will be opened unto him & the Lord will teach him face to face & he may have a perfect knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom of God, & this is the state & place the Ancient Saints arrived at when they had such glorious vision Isaiah, Ezekiel, John upon the Isle of Patmos, St Paul in the third heavens, & all the Saints who held communion with the general Assembly & Church of the First Born &c...
An Evangeslist
Is a patriarch even the oldest man of the Blood of Joseph or of the seed of Abraham, wherever the Church of Christ is established in the earth, there should be a patriarch for the benefit of the posterity of the Saints as it was with Jacob. in giving his patriarchal blessing unto his Sons &c.â€"
[Source: The Woodland Institute, http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]
175 years ago today - Jun 27, 1839
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] Among the vast number of the Keys of the Kingdom of God Joseph presented the following one to the Twelve for there benefit in there experience & travels in the flesh which is as follows:
In order to detect the devel [devil] when he transforms himself nigh unto an angel of light. When an angel of God appears unto man face to face in personage & reaches out his hand unto the man & he takes hold of the angels hand & feels a substance the same as one man would in Shaking hands with another he may then know that it is an angel of God, & he should place all Confidence in him. Such personages or angels are Saints with there resurrected Bodies.
But if a personage appears unto man & offers him his hand & the man takes hold of it & he feels nothing or does not sens any substance he may know it is the devel [devil], for when a Saint whose body is not resurrected appears unto man in the flesh he will not offer him his hand for this is against the law given him & in keeping in mind these things we may detec the devil that he decieved us not.
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
In order to detect the devel [devil] when he transforms himself nigh unto an angel of light. When an angel of God appears unto man face to face in personage & reaches out his hand unto the man & he takes hold of the angels hand & feels a substance the same as one man would in Shaking hands with another he may then know that it is an angel of God, & he should place all Confidence in him. Such personages or angels are Saints with there resurrected Bodies.
But if a personage appears unto man & offers him his hand & the man takes hold of it & he feels nothing or does not sens any substance he may know it is the devel [devil], for when a Saint whose body is not resurrected appears unto man in the flesh he will not offer him his hand for this is against the law given him & in keeping in mind these things we may detec the devil that he decieved us not.
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
20 years ago today - Jun 26, 1994
[Nauvoo Temple] The sunstone, which had been on display in the Nauvoo State Park, was relocated to the Temple Block, amid impressive ceremonies, under the direction of President Howard W. Hunter. The stone was encased in a special glassed-in case to preserve it from further deterioration.
[Source: Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple]
[Source: Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple]
115 years ago today - Jun 26, 1899; Monday
At 12:30 P.M. the following telegram, signed by President Cannon, and in answer to the one sent to him on Saturday, "Will answer your inquiry as to liability when we get Banigan's reply".
The following telegram was received from Elder Joseph S. Horne, of the Sevier [Utah] Stake Presidency: "William S. Riley was cut off several years ago; we don't know whether former blessings have been conferred. Is it right and proper to bury him in Endowment clothes?" The understanding had concerning this matter was that the deceased was in full fellowship when he died, but it was not known for sure that his former blessings, those given prior to his excommunication, had been reconferred upon him at the time of his return to the Church. The following answer was sent: "It would be proper to clothe body in Temple clothes (Signed) Lorenzo Snow".
[Source: First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
The following telegram was received from Elder Joseph S. Horne, of the Sevier [Utah] Stake Presidency: "William S. Riley was cut off several years ago; we don't know whether former blessings have been conferred. Is it right and proper to bury him in Endowment clothes?" The understanding had concerning this matter was that the deceased was in full fellowship when he died, but it was not known for sure that his former blessings, those given prior to his excommunication, had been reconferred upon him at the time of his return to the Church. The following answer was sent: "It would be proper to clothe body in Temple clothes (Signed) Lorenzo Snow".
[Source: First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
170 years ago today - Jun 26, 1844
[Prophecy] Dan Jones to visit Wales - "Soon after Dr. Richards retired to the bed ... and when all were apparently fast asleep, Joseph whispered to Dan Jones, "are you afraid to die?" Dan said, "Has that time come, think you? Engaged in such a cause I do not think that death would have many terrors." Joseph replied, "You will yet see Wales, and fulfill the mission appointed you before you die" HC 6:601 -- Jones did visit Wales.
[Source: Wikipedia, Prophesies of Joseph Smith, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prophecies_of_Joseph_Smith,_Jr.]
[Source: Wikipedia, Prophesies of Joseph Smith, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prophecies_of_Joseph_Smith,_Jr.]
170 years ago today - Jun 26, 1844
Joseph Smith, in Carthage Jail, sends a note to Governor Thomas Ford. Ford comes to the jail to meet with Joseph. Joseph tells him " the origin of the difficulty, the facts relating to the Expositor press, the course pursued by the City Council; the legality, as they thought, of their legislation; the pledges that he had made by letter and sent by expresses to his Excellency, that he was willing to satisfy all legal claims in case it should be shown that the City Council had transcended their legal bounds, etc., and that the Legion had been called out for the protection of the city, while it was threatened with immediate hostilities by an infuriated mob, until his Excellency could afford relief, and not for the purpose of invasion." William Clayton writes to Joseph " to inform you that Mr. Marsh, who lives down the river, and of whom you have had corn, pork, etc., has sent word if you want any bail he is ready for one to any amount; . . ."
180 years ago today - Jun 26, 1834
[Heber C. Kimball diary - Zion's Camp] "From that time the destroyer ceased, having afflicted us about four days; sixty-eight were attacked with the disease. Fourteen members of Zion's Camp died, eighteen died altogether; the remainder recovered, as we found out an effectual remedy for this disease, which was, by dipping the person afflicted into cold water, or pouring it on him. Some of the brethren, when they were seized, plunged themselves into the stream and obtained immediate relief.
[Source: Whitney, Helen Mar, Jeni Broberg Holzapfel, and Richard Neitzel Holzapfel, A Woman's View: Helen Mar Whitney's Reminiscences of Early Church History, Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 1997]
[Source: Whitney, Helen Mar, Jeni Broberg Holzapfel, and Richard Neitzel Holzapfel, A Woman's View: Helen Mar Whitney's Reminiscences of Early Church History, Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 1997]
185 years ago today - Jun 26, 1829
The Wayne Sentinel publishes the Book of Mormon title page and mentions that the book will be published as soon as it is finished.
[Source: Vogel, Dan, Early Mormon Documents, Appendix B: Chronology, 1771-1831, http://amzn.to/T5nY8w]
[Source: Vogel, Dan, Early Mormon Documents, Appendix B: Chronology, 1771-1831, http://amzn.to/T5nY8w]
130 years ago today - Jun 25, 1884
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] Attended Council in the Afternoon and went to the Theater in the Evening. <I saw> 24 <pair of legs of women.>
[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 - Jun 25, 1864 (Afternoon)
[Brigham Young Sermon] ... The first cotton we raised in the region we call our '"Dixie'" cost us about $3.65 a pound; we proved that cotton could be raised there. The next season it cost $1.84, and the next season about 70 cents, and that is the way we proved to the people that we could raise cotton. The experiment cost us thousands of dollars, but now we have cotton. They have shipped cotton to California. We sent some to the States to show that we could raise cotton here, and it sold for some 70 cents a pound, not so much as it would have brought if it had arrived a few days earlier. We now have some cotton factories in operation... I now have machinery sufficient to keep thirty-five power looms going, and I wish I had them; but this will not supply the Territory. ... If we go to work and manufacture for ourselves, we can stop the continual drain upon us through purchasing the articles of clothing which we require. It has been said '"Cotton is king.'"
[Source: Journal of Discourses, Liverpool, England, 1853-86. 10:332-334; Deseret News. Also Deseret Evening News, Deseret News Weekly, Deseret News Semi- Weekly, and Deseret News Extra, Salt Lake City as quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
[Source: Journal of Discourses, Liverpool, England, 1853-86. 10:332-334; Deseret News. Also Deseret Evening News, Deseret News Weekly, Deseret News Semi- Weekly, and Deseret News Extra, Salt Lake City as quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
170 years ago today - Jun 25, 1844
... 3:00 P.M. Joseph asks several military officers if they think he looks like a desperate character. They answer that they cannot see into his heart. He replies, "Very true, gentlemen, you cannot see what is in my heart, and you are therefore unable to judge me. . . . I can see what is in your hearts, and will tell you what I see. I can see that you thirst for blood, and nothing but my blood will satisfy you. It is not for crime of any description that I and my brethren are thus continually persecuted. . . . You and the people thirst for blood, I prophesy, in the name of the Lord, that you shall witness scenes of blood and sorrow to your entire satisfaction. Your souls shall be perfectly satiated with blood, and many of you who are now present shall have an opportunity to face the cannon's mouth from sources you think not of. . . . They shall seek for peace, and shall not be able to find it. Gentlemen, you will find what I have told you to be true."...
5:00 P.M. Bail is set at $500 each ($7,500 total). The Saints claim that the judge is trying to set bail at a higher amount than they can afford, but the amount is paid, and the defendants are freed.
/8:00 P.M. Constable Bettisworth arrives with a mittimus, a warrant committing Joseph and Hyrum to jail on a charge of treason (a different charge from the one for which they had paid bail). Joseph's lawyers, Reid and Woods, argue that such an order without a preliminary investigation or a possibility of paying bail is illegal. Woods requests that he be given time to appeal the order to Gov. Ford. Bettisworth says he will wait five minutes.
9:00 P.M. Woods returns from Gov. Ford, saying that Ford has told him that an executive cannot interfere in a civil judicial process; therefore he will not intervene. Robert F. Smith, who issued the illegal mittimus, is also a captain of the Carthage Greys ... Captain Dunn and 20 men escort Joseph and Hyrum together with Willard Richards, John Taylor, John P. Greene, StephenMarkham, and four others to jail.
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
5:00 P.M. Bail is set at $500 each ($7,500 total). The Saints claim that the judge is trying to set bail at a higher amount than they can afford, but the amount is paid, and the defendants are freed.
/8:00 P.M. Constable Bettisworth arrives with a mittimus, a warrant committing Joseph and Hyrum to jail on a charge of treason (a different charge from the one for which they had paid bail). Joseph's lawyers, Reid and Woods, argue that such an order without a preliminary investigation or a possibility of paying bail is illegal. Woods requests that he be given time to appeal the order to Gov. Ford. Bettisworth says he will wait five minutes.
9:00 P.M. Woods returns from Gov. Ford, saying that Ford has told him that an executive cannot interfere in a civil judicial process; therefore he will not intervene. Robert F. Smith, who issued the illegal mittimus, is also a captain of the Carthage Greys ... Captain Dunn and 20 men escort Joseph and Hyrum together with Willard Richards, John Taylor, John P. Greene, StephenMarkham, and four others to jail.
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
170 years ago today - Jun 25, 1844
The general of the Carthage militia signs a secret order for a military attack against Nauvoo, with the march of forces to begin at Golden's Point at 2 p.m., Jun 27, 1844. In Carthage, Joseph Smith is charged with "crime of treason against the government and people of the State of Illinois aforesaid."
175 years ago today - Jun 25, 1839
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] ... Orson Hide was one of the number, & a more humble & penitant man I never saw, & well he might be for in the time of the persecution in Zion or far west, he deserted the Cause, denyed the faith & betrayed his brethren, & assisted Thomas B. Marsh (the president of the Twelve Apostles) in jeperdizing the lives of Joseph & his Council & the whole church in Zion & the blood of the whole of them would have been shed if they had not been spared by the immediate hand of God. Brother Hide for several months past has had a deep scense of his high handed wickedness & the horrors of hell has roll'd oer his soul even to the wasting of his flesh & he has now humbled himself in the dust desiring to return to the Church.
The manner that O. Hide & T. B Marsh Jepopardized the Church was by bearing fals testimony against the presidency & the Church before the authorities of the State of Missouri which was a leading Cause of the Governour's calling out thirty thousand of the Militia against the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints ...
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
The manner that O. Hide & T. B Marsh Jepopardized the Church was by bearing fals testimony against the presidency & the Church before the authorities of the State of Missouri which was a leading Cause of the Governour's calling out thirty thousand of the Militia against the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints ...
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
180 years ago today - Jun 25, 1834
[Zion's Camp] Camp splits into small groups and are taken in by brethren living in the area. Joseph writes Col. Thornton, and attorneys Doniphan and Atchison, "to quiet the prejudices and fears of some part of the citizens of this county, we have concluded that our company shall be immediately dispersed, and continue so. till every effort for an adjustment of differences between us and the people of Jackson has been made on our part, that would in any wise be required of us by disinterested men of republican principle."
[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]
30 years ago today - Jun 24, 1984
Members of the First Quorum of the Seventy were appointed to serve as area presidencies in 13 major geographical areas of the Church â€" seven in the United States and Canada and six in other parts of the world.
[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]
75 years ago today - 24-Jun 25, 1939
[Nauvoo Temple] Over 700 Latter-day Saints gathered in a conference at Nauvoo, under the direction of Byrant S. Hinckley (Northern States Mission President), commemorating the centennial of the city's founding, as well as the death of Joseph Smith and Hyrum Smith. The activities sparked a mission to restore Nauvoo.
[Source: Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple]
[Source: Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple]
170 years ago today - Jun 24, 1844
Sidney Rigdon, having prophesied that Joseph Smith would die and Nauvoo would fall, leaves for Pittsburgh with his family.
[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)]
170 years ago today - Jun 24, 1844
[Emma Smith] Emma and Joseph see each other for the last time. [Joseph goes to Carthage].
[Source: Emma Smith, Woman of Faith, http://emmasmithmormon.com]
[Source: Emma Smith, Woman of Faith, http://emmasmithmormon.com]
175 years ago today - Jun 24, 1839
[Joseph Smith] Isaac Galland sells the whole town of Nashville, Iowa, together with 13,000 other acres of half-breed land, to the Saints for over $38,000. Because Galland has no clear titles to many of these lands, which had originally been designated by the government for half-breeds, many of the Saints who move here end up losing their money and their lands.
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
180 years ago today - Jun 24, 1834
[Heber C. Kimball diary - Zion's camp] The destroyer came upon us [colera], as we had been warned by the servant of God. About 12 o'clock at night we began to hear the cries of those who were seized. Even those on guard fell, with their guns in their hands, to the ground, and we had to exert ourselves considerably to attend to the sick, for they were stricken down on every hand. ... We were not able to obtain lumber to make them coffins, but were under the necessity of rolling them up in their blankets and burying them in that manner; ...
Our hopes were that no more would die; but while we were uniting in prayer with uplifted hands to God, we looked at our beloved brother, Eber Wilcox, who was gasping his last. At this scene my feelings were beyond expression. Those only who witnessed it can realize anything of the extent of our sufferings; ... I felt to covenant with my God and my brethren never to commit another sin while I lived. We felt to sit and weep over our brethren, and so great was our sorrow that we could have washed them with our tears. To realize that they had traveled a thousand miles through so much fatigue to lay down their lives for their brethren increased our love for them.
... thus it continued, until five out of ten were taken away.... Brother Joseph, seeing the sufferings of his brethren, stepped forward to rebuke the destroyer, but was immediately seized with the disease, and I assisted him a short distance from the place, when it was with difficulty he could walk. All that kept our enemies from us was the fear of the destroyer which the Lord had sent among us. After burying these five brethren I was seized by the hand of the destroyer as I went into the woods to pray; I was instantly struck blind, and saw no way whereby I could free myself from the disease, only to exert myself by jumping and threshing myself about until my sight returned to me and my blood began to circulate in my veins; I started and ran some distance, and by this means, through the help of God I was enabled to extricate myself from the grasp of death.
[Source: Whitney, Helen Mar, Jeni Broberg Holzapfel, and Richard Neitzel Holzapfel, A Woman's View: Helen Mar Whitney's Reminiscences of Early Church History, Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 1997]
Our hopes were that no more would die; but while we were uniting in prayer with uplifted hands to God, we looked at our beloved brother, Eber Wilcox, who was gasping his last. At this scene my feelings were beyond expression. Those only who witnessed it can realize anything of the extent of our sufferings; ... I felt to covenant with my God and my brethren never to commit another sin while I lived. We felt to sit and weep over our brethren, and so great was our sorrow that we could have washed them with our tears. To realize that they had traveled a thousand miles through so much fatigue to lay down their lives for their brethren increased our love for them.
... thus it continued, until five out of ten were taken away.... Brother Joseph, seeing the sufferings of his brethren, stepped forward to rebuke the destroyer, but was immediately seized with the disease, and I assisted him a short distance from the place, when it was with difficulty he could walk. All that kept our enemies from us was the fear of the destroyer which the Lord had sent among us. After burying these five brethren I was seized by the hand of the destroyer as I went into the woods to pray; I was instantly struck blind, and saw no way whereby I could free myself from the disease, only to exert myself by jumping and threshing myself about until my sight returned to me and my blood began to circulate in my veins; I started and ran some distance, and by this means, through the help of God I was enabled to extricate myself from the grasp of death.
[Source: Whitney, Helen Mar, Jeni Broberg Holzapfel, and Richard Neitzel Holzapfel, A Woman's View: Helen Mar Whitney's Reminiscences of Early Church History, Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 1997]
185 years ago today - 24 June?, 1829
According to Lucy Mack Smith, as Joseph Smith was setting off to Palmyra to sign the contract with Grandin for the printing of the Book of Mormon, he was informed by a Dr. M'Intyre that a group of 40 men was forming to interfere with his journey. As the men sat along a fence along the way, Smith greeted them cheerfully, one-by-one and by name, and was allowed to pass by. He signed the documents and returned to Manchester. (Anderson 2001, p. 458).
[Source: Wikipedia: Chronology of Mormonism, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_Mormonism]
[Source: Wikipedia: Chronology of Mormonism, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_Mormonism]
10 years ago today - Jun 23, 2004
George W. Bush, President of the United States, awards Gordon B. Hinckley, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor awarded by the United States, in a ceremony at the White House. The press release put forth by the White House states:+"Gordon B. Hinckley [...] has inspired millions and has led efforts to improve humanitarian aid, disaster relief, and education funding across the globe."
[Source: Wikipedia, 21st Century (Mormonism), http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/21st_century_(Mormonism)]
[Source: Wikipedia, 21st Century (Mormonism), http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/21st_century_(Mormonism)]
20 years ago today - Jun 23, 1994
Jeffrey R. Holland is ordained an Apostle, replacing Marvin J. Ashton, who had passed away.
[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]
40 years ago today - Jun 23, 1974
Modifications are made to the administration of the Aaronic Priesthood and the Young Women programs, and the MIA youth programs are discontinued. Ruth Hardy Funk is called as the seventh general president of the Young Women, with Hortense Hogan Child and Ardeth Greene Kapp as counselors.
[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]
125 years ago today - Jun 23, 1889
[Apostle Abraham H. Cannon Journal] Father [George Q. Cannon, 1st Presidency] proved to my entire satisfaction this morning by passages from the Book of Mormon and Doctrine and Covenants that all men, even the sons of perdition, will be resurrected and stand before God to be judged. He believes that Jesus Christ is Jehovah, and that Adam is His Father and our God; that under certain unknown conditions the benefits of the Savior's atonement extend to our entire solar system. Jesus, in speaking of Himself as the very eternal Father speaks as one of the Godhead, etc. Many obscure points of doctrine were made plain to me by the conversation of this morning. [Note: excluded from 'An Apostles Record: The Journals of Abraham H. Cannon']
[Source: Diary of Apostle Abraham H. Cannon, http://www.amazon.com/Apostles-Record-Journals-Abraham-1889-1896/dp/B000MFD1K4]
[Source: Diary of Apostle Abraham H. Cannon, http://www.amazon.com/Apostles-Record-Journals-Abraham-1889-1896/dp/B000MFD1K4]
140 years ago today - Jun 23, 1874
Poland Act became law, forcing Mormon polygamists to be tried by federal courts.
[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 - 23 June 1844, Sunday
[William Clayton Writings] Fully aware of the plot afoot to take their lives, Joseph and Hyrum had decided that the best thing for them as well as for the church was to flee across the Mississippi and perhaps find refuge in the Rocky Mountains. Joseph, Hyrum, and Willard Richards were preparing to leave, and Joseph told William W.l Phelps, another close friend and scribe, to inform their wives and get their feelings on the subject. When Clayton arrived at the river, Joseph whispered his assignment to him: he was to give the records of the Kingdom of God (i.e., the Council of Fifty) to a faithful man who would take them away to safety, or he should burn or bury them. Clayton certainly could not bear to part with or destroy the sacred and important records he had so faithfully kept, so he hurried home and early that Sunday morning gathered up not only the private records but also the public records and buried them.
[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]
[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]
170 years ago today - 1844 23 Jun.
Word of the prophet's departure causes near panic among his devoted followers. ... Joseph and Emma Smith burn the original manuscript of the 1843 polygamy revelation, presumably on this evening. William Clayton preserves a copy.
[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 - Jun 23, 1844
They reach the Iowa side at daybreak. Joseph immediately writes Emma a note asking her to let him know her whereabouts. They send Rockwell back across the river. He finds Nauvoo full of confusion, with people unsure whether to defend or flee the city. A posse arrives to arrest Joseph, but they cannot find him. When the news that he has fled fills the town, many who had thought themselves in great danger now consider him a coward. (Gov. Ford later says that he thought Joseph had taken the best solution.) Dr. Bernhisel and Reynolds Cahoon cross the river to see Joseph. At 1 P.M. Emma sends Porter Rockwell back across the river to beg Joseph to return to Nauvoo. Reynolds Cahoon and others accuse Joseph of cowardice, holding that, inasmuch as Gov. Ford has promised him a fair trial, he has nothing to worry about. When Joseph hears that he is considered a coward, he says, "If my life is of no value to my friends it is of none to myself. . . . What shall I do?" Rockwellsays, "You are the oldest and ought to know best; and as you make your bed, I will lie with you." Joseph asks Hyrum for advice. Hyrum says, "Let us go back and give ourselves up, and see the thing out." After a few moments, Joseph says, "If you go back I will go with you, but we shall be butchered." Hyrum says, "No, no; let us go back and put our trust in God, and we shall not be harmed. The Lord is in it. If we live or have to die, we will be reconciled to our fate." Joseph writes a letter to Ford stating that he will give himself up. They head back in the afternoon, but Joseph says, "It is of no use to hurry, for we are going back to be slaughtered." He desires to speak to his people one more time, and Rockwell offers to get them out by starlight, but when Joseph sees his family, he decides to spend the eveing with them.
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
180 years ago today - Jun 23, 1834
[Heber C. Kimball - Zion's Camp] A council of high priests met according to a revelation received the previous day, to choose some of the first elders to receive their endowment; being appointed by the voice of the spirit, through Joseph Smith jr., president of the church.
They proceeded: Edward Partridge is called and chosen, and is to go to Kirtland and receive his endowment with power from on high; and also, stand in his office as bishop to purchase land in Missouri.
W. W. Phelps is called and chosen, and it is appointed unto him to receive his endowment with power from on high; and help carry on the printing establishment till Zion is redeemed.
Isaac Morley ... John Whitmer ... David Whitmer ... A. S. Gilbert is called and chosen, and it is appointed unto him to receive his endowment from on high in Kirtland; and to assist in gathering up the strength of the LordÂ's house; and to proclaim the everlasting gospel till Zion is redeemed. He said in his heart he could not do it, and died in about three days.
Peter Whitmer ... Simeon Carter ... Newel Knight ... Thomas B. Marsh ... Lyman Wight ... Parley P. Pratt ... Solomon Hancock is called and chosen, and it is appointed unto him to receive his endowment in Kirtland with power from on high; and assist in gathering up the strength of the LordÂ's house, and proclaim the everlasting gospel...
[Source: Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
They proceeded: Edward Partridge is called and chosen, and is to go to Kirtland and receive his endowment with power from on high; and also, stand in his office as bishop to purchase land in Missouri.
W. W. Phelps is called and chosen, and it is appointed unto him to receive his endowment with power from on high; and help carry on the printing establishment till Zion is redeemed.
Isaac Morley ... John Whitmer ... David Whitmer ... A. S. Gilbert is called and chosen, and it is appointed unto him to receive his endowment from on high in Kirtland; and to assist in gathering up the strength of the LordÂ's house; and to proclaim the everlasting gospel till Zion is redeemed. He said in his heart he could not do it, and died in about three days.
Peter Whitmer ... Simeon Carter ... Newel Knight ... Thomas B. Marsh ... Lyman Wight ... Parley P. Pratt ... Solomon Hancock is called and chosen, and it is appointed unto him to receive his endowment in Kirtland with power from on high; and assist in gathering up the strength of the LordÂ's house, and proclaim the everlasting gospel...
[Source: Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
180 years ago today - Jun 23, 1834
[Heber C. Kimball - Zion's Camp] 23 On the 23d of June, Brother Joseph received a revelation, as before stated, saying that the Lord had accepted our offering, even as he accepted that of Abraham, therefore he had a great blessing laid up in store for us... Before we separated the money which had been put into the hands of our paymaster, and had not been used, was equally divided amongst the company, making one dollar and sixteen cents each. ...
[Source: Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
[Source: Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
180 years ago today - Jun 23, 1834
When Zion's Camp gets within five or six miles of Liberty, at the pleadings of Gen. Atchison, the Saints' lawyer, they decide not to enter Liberty because of the feelings of the people there... Some are very angry because Joseph turned away from Liberty and because they would not get a chance to fight. Some say they would prefer death to returning without a fight.
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
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
5 years ago today - 6/22/2009
[Same-Sex Marriage] An article in Time magazine, "The Storm Over the Mormons," presents the story of Mormons and Proposition 8.
[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 - Jun 22, 1949
The Council of the Twelve was informed several weeks ago that you desired that further consideration be given to the matter of inviting the Patriarch to meet with the First Presidency and the Twelve in the weekly Temple meetings. Obedient to your wishes, the Twelve have devoted parts of several meetings to a discussion of this subject and now submit the report of their deliberations to you.
It is our considered judgment that it would not be wise to reinaugurate a practice, which, in our opinion, does not seem to fully carry out the revealed order in Church government. .... We are not able to see the place of the Patriarch in such an administrative council. The nature of his office is such that he would not seem to be vested with the right to vote in the proceedings and he is not charged with the responsibility of 'setting the Church in order.' We believe that it is generally agreed his office is one of blessing and is not executive in nature. His inclusion in the administrative meetings would seem to us to be somewhat confusing to the order of the Church.
The fact that the Patriarch is sustained in conferences as 'Prophet, Seer, and Revelator,' together with members of the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve, has received our attention. While we confess our inability to understand fully the meaning of these traditional terms as applied to anyone other than the President of the Church it does seem reasonably clear to us that the application of the terms does not operate to place all the men to whom they are applied on an equality of authority and privilege. Were it not so every man so sustained would be on a part with the President. The construction that seems most tenable to us is that each man shall be deemed to be 'a Prophet, Seer and Revelator' within the sphere of his particular calling or that these designated powers are conferred to be held in abeyance until such time as the person or persons so designated shall be called to act in the chief administrative office. The President of the Church is the 'Prophet, Seer and Revelator' to the whole Church in all matters. There are undoubtedly some limitations in this respect on the Twelve and very likely further limitations on the Patriarch to the Church. We do not know that the limitations have ever been defined, but we feel sure they must exist.
Another aspect of the matter we feel worthy of mention. We are all agreed that the office of the Patriarch comes by right to one of 'the blood.' It has also been agreed in previous discussions that one who is in line of succession, who is not unworthy, must be chosen. Eligibility for the office therefore may not and does not entail capacity for administrative functions. In his capacity as Patriarch, the man who holds the office may be filled with inspired blessings for the people. That should be his inheritance. ...
In relation to our council meetings in the Temple we venture a suggestion, namely: That all of the other brethren of the General Authorities be invited to join us in the Temple for the observance of one fast day in each quarter during the year. They would then have the opportunity of participating in our prayer circle on these days and partaking of the sacrament, privileges which, we think, few, if any of them, enjoy at the present time. After the administration of the sacrament and hearing such remarks as the President may feel to give they could be excused. In the interest of conserving time for the business of our meeting and for the other General Authorities as well, it could be understood that the prayer circle and sacrament services would not occupy more than one hour and a quarter. We feel sure that such an opportunity would be highly esteemed by our brethren and that the service would make for interested spiritual unity and good will.
We have assumed, of course, that you desired us to give our best judgment in the matter and this we do frankly and most respectfully.
[Source: Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Letter to George Albert Smith, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
It is our considered judgment that it would not be wise to reinaugurate a practice, which, in our opinion, does not seem to fully carry out the revealed order in Church government. .... We are not able to see the place of the Patriarch in such an administrative council. The nature of his office is such that he would not seem to be vested with the right to vote in the proceedings and he is not charged with the responsibility of 'setting the Church in order.' We believe that it is generally agreed his office is one of blessing and is not executive in nature. His inclusion in the administrative meetings would seem to us to be somewhat confusing to the order of the Church.
The fact that the Patriarch is sustained in conferences as 'Prophet, Seer, and Revelator,' together with members of the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve, has received our attention. While we confess our inability to understand fully the meaning of these traditional terms as applied to anyone other than the President of the Church it does seem reasonably clear to us that the application of the terms does not operate to place all the men to whom they are applied on an equality of authority and privilege. Were it not so every man so sustained would be on a part with the President. The construction that seems most tenable to us is that each man shall be deemed to be 'a Prophet, Seer and Revelator' within the sphere of his particular calling or that these designated powers are conferred to be held in abeyance until such time as the person or persons so designated shall be called to act in the chief administrative office. The President of the Church is the 'Prophet, Seer and Revelator' to the whole Church in all matters. There are undoubtedly some limitations in this respect on the Twelve and very likely further limitations on the Patriarch to the Church. We do not know that the limitations have ever been defined, but we feel sure they must exist.
Another aspect of the matter we feel worthy of mention. We are all agreed that the office of the Patriarch comes by right to one of 'the blood.' It has also been agreed in previous discussions that one who is in line of succession, who is not unworthy, must be chosen. Eligibility for the office therefore may not and does not entail capacity for administrative functions. In his capacity as Patriarch, the man who holds the office may be filled with inspired blessings for the people. That should be his inheritance. ...
In relation to our council meetings in the Temple we venture a suggestion, namely: That all of the other brethren of the General Authorities be invited to join us in the Temple for the observance of one fast day in each quarter during the year. They would then have the opportunity of participating in our prayer circle on these days and partaking of the sacrament, privileges which, we think, few, if any of them, enjoy at the present time. After the administration of the sacrament and hearing such remarks as the President may feel to give they could be excused. In the interest of conserving time for the business of our meeting and for the other General Authorities as well, it could be understood that the prayer circle and sacrament services would not occupy more than one hour and a quarter. We feel sure that such an opportunity would be highly esteemed by our brethren and that the service would make for interested spiritual unity and good will.
We have assumed, of course, that you desired us to give our best judgment in the matter and this we do frankly and most respectfully.
[Source: Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Letter to George Albert Smith, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
170 years ago today - June 22, 1844. Saturday.
[William Clayton Journal] Joseph whispered and told me either to put the r[ecords] of K[ingdom] [IE Quorum of Fifty] into the hands of some faithful man and send them away, or burn them, or bury them. I concluded to bury them, which I did immediately on my return home.
[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]
170 years ago today - Jun 22, 1844
[Joseph Smith Diary] 6 P.M. Prophesied that /in/ the sickly season that sickness would enter into their houses and vex them until they would fain repent in dust and ashes and they will be smitten with the scab &c.
[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1844, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]
[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1844, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]
170 years ago today - Jun 22, 1844
Joseph sends a letter to Gov. Ford containing all the affidavits showing the Saints' side of the conflict. The Nauvoo Legion continues to prepare to defend Nauvoo, digging ditches, pitching tents, and setting up camp. Late the night before, John Taylor and Dr. John M. Bernhisel had gone to Carthage to meet with Ford, and had spent a terrified night, as the town was full of anti-Mormon rejoicing and celebration. Early on the morning of June 22, Taylor and Bernhisel meet with Ford, but find him surrounded by William and Wilson Law, the Higbees, the Fosters, etc. Whenever Taylor or Bernhisel try to explain their side of the Expositor story, they are immediately contradicted, and communication is almost totally blocked. After a five-hour wait, they receive a letter from Gov. Ford to take to Joseph Smith. It states that Joseph has committed one illegality after another and should plan to come to Carthage at once. Ford says, "I will also guarantee the safety of all such persons asmay thus be brought to this place from Nauvoo either for trial or as witnesses for the accused." Joseph begins to write a reply to Ford, having decided that only the United States president, John Tyler, could truly decide the legality in a matter like this. He ends his letter to Ford with the statement, "We again say, if anything wrong has been done on our part, and we know of nothing, we will make all things right if the Government will give us the opportunity. Disperse the mob, and secure to us our constitutional privileges, that our lives may not be endangered when on trial." However, the more Joseph thinks about Ford's reply, the more he realizes, "There is no mercyâ€"no mercy here." Hyrum adds, "No; just as sure as we fall into their hands we are dead men."Unsure of what to do, Joseph gets a sudden idea. "It is clear to my mind what to do. All they want is Hyrum and myself. . . . Let them search; they will not harm you in person or property, and not even a hair of your head. We will cross the river tonight, and go away to the West." Joseph prepares to cross the river, and as his final recorded quote in his personal life's record, he writes, "I told Stephen Markham that if I and Hyrum were ever taken again we should be massacred, or I was not a prophet of God. I want Hyrum to live to avenge my blood, but he is determined not to leave me." The Prophet prepares to flee to the West, and to put his and Hyrum's families on the Maid of Iowa. Joseph, Hyrum, and Willard Richards wait on the banks of the Mississippi and as they do, they instruct W. W. Phelps to take their families to Cincinnati, and from there to petition the president of the United States. At midnight, Joseph, Hyrum, Willard Richards, and Orrin Porter Rockwell get in the boat, and at 2 A.M. Rockwell rows them across the Mississippi in a leaky skiff. Hyrum and Joseph bail water all the way.
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
180 years ago today - Jun 22, 1834
[Revelation: Minutes, 17 February 1834 [D&C 102] Organization of high counsel Kirtland February 17, 1834] ... Verily I say unto you, who have assembled together that you may learn my will, concerning the redemption of mine afflicted people; behold I say unto you, were it not for the transgression of my people speaking concerning the church and not individuals, they might have been redeemed even now; but behold, they have not learned to be obedient to the things which I require at their hands, but are full of all manner of evil and do not impart of their substanc[e] as becometh saints; to the poor and afflicted among them and are not united, according to the union [DEL:of] required by the law of the celestial kingdom and Zion cannot be built up unless it is by the principoles of the law of the Celestial kingdom ... I speak not concerning those who are appointed to lead my people who are the first elders of my church for they are not all under this condemnation, but I speak concerning the church abroad... it is expedient in me that mine elders should wait for a little season for the redemption of Zion ... and the things which I require at their hands, and this cannot be brought to pass until mine elders are endowed with power from on high... I will fight your battles, behold the destroyer I have already sent forth to destroy and lay waste mine enemies, and not many years hence they shall not be left to pollute mine heritage ... Now behold, I say unto you my friends, in this way you may find favor in the eyes of the people, until the armies of Israel become very great, and I will soften the hearts of the people as I did [DEL:I] the heart of Pharioh from time to time, until my servant Joseph and mine elders whom he shall appoint shall have time to gather up the strength of my house; and to have sent wise men to fulfil that which I have commanded concerning the purchasing of all the lands in Jackson County that can be purchased and in the adjoining Counties round about, for it is my will, that these lands should be purchased that my saints should possess them according to the law of consecration, which I have given. And after these lands are purchased I will hold the armies of Israel guiltless in taking possessions of their own lands and of throw[i]ng down the tower of mine enemies that may be upon them, and scattering their watchmen, and avengeing me of mine enemies, unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me. ... ...
[Source: Book of Commandments and Revelations (Revelation Book 1) http://bit.ly/manuscript-revelations]
[Source: Book of Commandments and Revelations (Revelation Book 1) http://bit.ly/manuscript-revelations]
180 years ago today - Jun 22, 1834
[Heber C. Kimball] ... Brother Thayre was taken sick with the cholera, and also Brother Hayes. We left them there, and also Brother Hancock who had been taken with the cholera during the storm. Bro. Joseph called the camp together, and told us that in consequence of the disobedience of some who had not been willing to listen to his words, but had been rebellious, God had decreed that sickness should come upon us, and we should die like sheep with the rot; and said he, Â"I am sorry, but I cannot help it.Â" When he spake these things it pierced me like a dart, having a testimony that so it would be. In the afternoon of this day, we began to receive the revelation known as the Â"Fishing River revelation.Â"
[Source: Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
[Source: Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
185 years ago today - 22 June?, 1829
According to Lucy Mack Smith, the company from Fayette who had been among the Eight Witnesses "went to Palmyra to make arrangements for getting the book printed; and they succeeded in making a contract with one E. B. Grandin, but did not draw the writings at that time." The June 19 date is suggested because Lucy Mack Smith said the event occurred on a Monday of the week prior to the Thursday on which the demonstration to the Eight Witnesses occurred.
[Source: Wikipedia: Chronology of Mormonism, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_Mormonism]
[Source: Wikipedia: Chronology of Mormonism, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_Mormonism]
60 years ago today - Jun 21, 1954
After quoting 3 Nephi 1:13 "Tomorrow come I into the world" First-Presidency Second Counselor J. Reuben Clark states (in a talk at BYU): "But it seems possible that the spirit may not be present in the embryo till at least shortly before birth, whether the birth be regular or premature."
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com, based on Michael Quinn's Mormon Hierarchy vols 1 & 2]
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com, based on Michael Quinn's Mormon Hierarchy vols 1 & 2]
110 years ago today - Jun 21, 1904
Discussions between the First Presidency and promoters begin regarding the feasibility of creating a complete stereo-view set of Mormon history sites. Eventually, "'The Latter Day Saints' Tour from Palmyra, New York to Salt Lake City, Utah through the Stereoscope," with a booklet written by Elder B. H. Roberts describing Church historical sites and providing historical background, is completed and sold nationally and internationally by Underwood & Underwood of Ottawa, Kansas, the largest producer of this popular medium.
115 years ago today - Jun 21, 1899
Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith gave an interview to Apostle Brigham Young [Jr.]; Bishop [William B.] Preston also being present. Brother Young had concluded to go into a business enterprise with his son-in-law...
President Snow, after hearing Brother Young's statement, told him that he very much questioned the right of an Apostle to go into business in such a way as to tie himself up, so that he would not be free to attend to the duties of the Apostleship; especially in view of the fact that he is so well remunerated for his services. Moreover, the President questioned the wisdom of Brother Young's doing as he proposed, since he would have to borrow money.
Brother Young reminded President Snow that nearly all the Apostles were engaged in some kind of business, and he, being an exception to the rule, was desirous of doing something too.
President Snow reminded Brother Young that brethren of the Twelve had gone into business and deplorably failed, and that the Church had to come to their rescue at great expense. It was time, he thought, that the Church should protect itself against a repetition of such things. ...
[Source: Journal History, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
President Snow, after hearing Brother Young's statement, told him that he very much questioned the right of an Apostle to go into business in such a way as to tie himself up, so that he would not be free to attend to the duties of the Apostleship; especially in view of the fact that he is so well remunerated for his services. Moreover, the President questioned the wisdom of Brother Young's doing as he proposed, since he would have to borrow money.
Brother Young reminded President Snow that nearly all the Apostles were engaged in some kind of business, and he, being an exception to the rule, was desirous of doing something too.
President Snow reminded Brother Young that brethren of the Twelve had gone into business and deplorably failed, and that the Church had to come to their rescue at great expense. It was time, he thought, that the Church should protect itself against a repetition of such things. ...
[Source: Journal History, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
140 years ago today - Jun 21, 1874
[Brigham Young Sermon] While we were in England, I think, the Lord manifested to me by visions and his Spirit, things that I did not then understand. I never opened my mouth to any persons concerning them, until I returned to Nauvoo. Joseph had never mentioned this, there had never been a thought of it in the Church that I knew anything about at that time. But I had this for myself, and I kept it to myself, and when I returned home and Joseph revealed these things to me, I then understood the reflections that were upon my mind while in England. But this was not until after I had told him what I understood. I saw that he was after something by his conversation, leading my mind along, and others, to see how we could bear this. This was in 1841; the revelation was given in 1843, but the doctrine was revealed before this; and when I told Joseph what I understood, which was right in front of my house in the street, as he was shaking hands and leaving me, he turned round and looked me in the eyes, and says he'"'"Brother Brigham, are you speaking what you understand,'"are you in earnest?'" Says I'"'"I speak just as the Spirit manifests to me.'" Says he'"'"God bless you, the Lord has opened your mind,'" and he turned and went off. ......
I want to prophesy that he and his Ward will be prepared by and by, and I hope my prophecy will be fulfilled.
How many are there in this Church who are now wavering and shaking because they have spoken against the ordinances of heaven, and especially against that ordinance which God has revealed for the exaltation of the children of men in celestial [plural] marriage? Hold that as sacred as your own soul: if you cannot see the beauty and glory of it, and feel it in your own hearts, say nothing against it. ... The fact is, let the pure principles of the kingdom of God be taught to men and women, and far more of the latter than the former will receive and obey them. What shall we do with them? They want exaltation, they want to be in the great family of heaven, they do not want to be cast off, then they must be taken into the families of those who prove themselves worthy to be exalted with the Gods. ... -- SLC 3rd Ward
[Source: Journal of Discourses. Liverpool, England, 1853-86. 18:235-249; Deseret News. Also Deseret Evening News, Deseret News Weekly, Deseret News Semi- Weekly, and Deseret News Extra, Salt Lake City as quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
I want to prophesy that he and his Ward will be prepared by and by, and I hope my prophecy will be fulfilled.
How many are there in this Church who are now wavering and shaking because they have spoken against the ordinances of heaven, and especially against that ordinance which God has revealed for the exaltation of the children of men in celestial [plural] marriage? Hold that as sacred as your own soul: if you cannot see the beauty and glory of it, and feel it in your own hearts, say nothing against it. ... The fact is, let the pure principles of the kingdom of God be taught to men and women, and far more of the latter than the former will receive and obey them. What shall we do with them? They want exaltation, they want to be in the great family of heaven, they do not want to be cast off, then they must be taken into the families of those who prove themselves worthy to be exalted with the Gods. ... -- SLC 3rd Ward
[Source: Journal of Discourses. Liverpool, England, 1853-86. 18:235-249; Deseret News. Also Deseret Evening News, Deseret News Weekly, Deseret News Semi- Weekly, and Deseret News Extra, Salt Lake City as quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
170 years ago today - Jun 21, 1844
Joseph Smith exchanged letters regarding the growing crisis in Nauvoo with Thomas Ford, governor of Illinois, and prepared affidavits for him.
[Source: Joseph Smith Resource Center: Daily Events in the Life of Joseph Smith, http://josephsmith.net/josephsmith/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=e581001cfb340010VgnVCM1000001f5e340aRCRDlocale=0]
[Source: Joseph Smith Resource Center: Daily Events in the Life of Joseph Smith, http://josephsmith.net/josephsmith/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=e581001cfb340010VgnVCM1000001f5e340aRCRDlocale=0]
180 years ago today - Jun 21, 1834
[Heber C. Kimball diary - Zion's Camp] 21 On the 21st, Colonel Searcy and two other leading men from Ray county, came to see us, desiring to know what our intentions were; for said he, Â"I see that there is an Almighty power that protects this people, for I started from Richmond, Ray county, with a company of armed men having a fixed determination to destroy you, but was kept back by the storm and was not able to reach you.Â" When he came into the camp he was seized with such a trembling, that he was obliged to sit down in order to compose himself. When he desired to know what our intentions were, Brother Joseph arose and began to speak and the power of God rested upon him. He gave a relation of the sufferings of our people in Jackson county, and also of all our persecutions and what we had suffered by our enemies for our religion; and that we had come one thousand miles to assist our brethren, to bring them clothing, and to reinstate them upon their own lands; that we had no intentions to molest or injure any people, but only to administer to the wants of our afflicted brethren; and that the evil reports, which were circulated about us were false, and were circulated by our enemies to get us destroyed.
After he got through and had spoke quite lengthy, the power of which melted them into compassion, they arose and offered him their hands, and said they would use their influence to allay the excitement which everywhere prevailed against us. They accordingly went forth and rode day and night to pacify the people; and they wept because they saw we were a poor afflicted people, and our intentions were pure....
[Source: Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
After he got through and had spoke quite lengthy, the power of which melted them into compassion, they arose and offered him their hands, and said they would use their influence to allay the excitement which everywhere prevailed against us. They accordingly went forth and rode day and night to pacify the people; and they wept because they saw we were a poor afflicted people, and our intentions were pure....
[Source: Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
185 years ago today - 21/Jun 28, 1829
Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer (who remembered that it was a Sunday), and Martin Harris become, at their request, the Three Witnesses.
[Source: Anderson, Lavina Fielding, Editor, Lucy's Book: A Critical Edition of Lucy Mack Smith's Family Memoir, 2001, Signature Books, http://bit.ly/lucys-book]
[Source: Anderson, Lavina Fielding, Editor, Lucy's Book: A Critical Edition of Lucy Mack Smith's Family Memoir, 2001, Signature Books, http://bit.ly/lucys-book]
40 years ago today - Jun 20, 1974
Mission names changed to reflect headquarters city and state or country.
[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]
110 years ago today - Jun 20, 1904
The following telegram was received by President [Joseph F.] Smith from President Anthony W. Ivins: 'Doctor telephones [Abraham] Owen [Woodruff] very gravely sick [Small Pox]. Fears fatal termination tonight. Tell Sister Woodruff.' The following telegram received about 10 o'clock p.m.: '[Abraham] Owen [Woodruff] died this morning. Doctor, nurse and President [William R.] Hakes assured me he would speedily recover. Ate hearty dinner today, (yesterday), heart failure this (in the) evening.'
[Source: Journal History, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
[Source: Journal History, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
115 years ago today - Jun 20, 1899
[Post-Manifesto plural marriage] James Brace Darton, born at Salt Lake City, Utah, February 17, 1872
Ann Eliza Gibbons Pace, born at Glenwood, Utah, February 24, 1874
Married at Colonia Juarez, June 20, 1899
[Source: Stanley Ivins typewritten copy of Anthony Ivins "Record Book of Marriages" [Plural] performed in Mexican colonies, Anderson, Elizabeth Oberdick, editor, Cowboy Apostle: The Diaries of Anthony W. Ivins: 1875-1932, Signature Books, Salt Lake City in association with the Smith-Pettit Foundation (2013), Appendix A]
Ann Eliza Gibbons Pace, born at Glenwood, Utah, February 24, 1874
Married at Colonia Juarez, June 20, 1899
[Source: Stanley Ivins typewritten copy of Anthony Ivins "Record Book of Marriages" [Plural] performed in Mexican colonies, Anderson, Elizabeth Oberdick, editor, Cowboy Apostle: The Diaries of Anthony W. Ivins: 1875-1932, Signature Books, Salt Lake City in association with the Smith-Pettit Foundation (2013), Appendix A]
145 years ago today - Jun 20, 1869
The Paris Stake, the first stake in Idaho, is organized, with David P. Kimball as president.
145 years ago today - Jun 20, 1869
First counselor in the First Presidency George A. Smith preaches: "When Joseph Smith was about 15 years old there was, in the western part of the State of New York, a considerable excitement upon the subject of religion . . . .Joseph reflected much upon the subject of religion . . . . He was led to pray upon the subject in consequence of the declaration of the Apostle James: 'If any of you lack Wisdom, let him ask of God that giveth to all men liberally and upbraideth not.' He sought the Lord by day and by night, and was enlightened by the vision of an holy angel. When this personage appeared to him, one of his first inquiries was, 'Which of the denominations of Christians in the vicinity was right?' He was told they had all gone astray, they had wandered into darkness, and that God was about to restore the Gospel in its simplicity and purity to the earth; he was, consequently, directed not to join any one of them, but to be humble and seek the Lord with all his heart, and that from time to time he should be taught and instructed in relation to the right way to serve the Lord."
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com, based on Michael Quinn's Mormon Hierarchy vols 1 & 2]
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com, based on Michael Quinn's Mormon Hierarchy vols 1 & 2]
145 years ago today - Jun 20, 1869
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] Rool [Roll] Called of the School of the Prophets. D. H. Wells Prayed. C. C. Rich was Chosen the Presidt of the school of the Prophets. David Parley Kimball (son of Heber C Kimball) was Chosen vice Presidet of the school of the Prophets And President of this Stake of Zion. He was ordained A High Priest By Presidet Young & the Twelve Apostles. Presidet Young told him to Chose his own Councillors & ordain them at his leasure. He Could Chuse them abroad & bring them with him if He Chose. W Woodruff dismissed.
... It was the opinion of the Prophet Joseph that the City of Enoch was in the gulf of Mexico, And that Adam offered his sacrafice & Built his first Altar in Adam Ondi Ahman, & the Stones of his Altar are there now to be seen. The City of Enoch was taken up but the City of Zion which we shall build will remain & not be taken away as his City was...
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
... It was the opinion of the Prophet Joseph that the City of Enoch was in the gulf of Mexico, And that Adam offered his sacrafice & Built his first Altar in Adam Ondi Ahman, & the Stones of his Altar are there now to be seen. The City of Enoch was taken up but the City of Zion which we shall build will remain & not be taken away as his City was...
[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 - Jun 20, 1844
[Joseph Smith Diary] Thursday, June 20th 1844 At day break send the Guard out of the city /to pitch upon ground to/ to meet the enemy. 10 A.M. Southwick ... said a cannon from Quincy arrived at Warsaw. No excitement at St. Louis. [It was] reported to him a great excitement at Far West &c. 11 [P.M.] reviewed the troops facing the Mansion and went onto parade on the bank of the River.
... [Theodore] Turley had orders to commence Making cannon.
[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1844, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]
... [Theodore] Turley had orders to commence Making cannon.
[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1844, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]
170 years ago today - 1844 20 Jun.
Joseph Smith writes the apostles to return to Nauvoo immediately and, probably on this occasion, instructs them to destroy their endowment undergarments.
[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 - Jun 20, 1844
[Joseph Smith] tells his brother Hyrum to take his family to Cincinnati. Hyrum answers, "Joseph, I can't leave you." Joseph says, "I wish I could get Hyrum out of the way, so that he may live to avenge my blood." Willard Richards writes James Arlington Bennett on behalf of Joseph, asking for his help, stating, "All the horrors of Missouri's murders are crowding thick upon us. . . . [We] invite you to come to our assistance with as many volunteers as you can bring. . . . Will you come? . . . If you do not, your turn may come next; and where will it cease?"
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
75 years ago today - Jun 19, 1939
Wilford Wood purchased the Liberty Jail in Missouri on behalf of the Church.
[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]
85 years ago today - Jun 19, 1929
[President Heber J. Grant Diary] Sister Ellis L. Musser called and made an appeal to me to allow her to go to the temple to witness the marriage of her daughter. I told her I could not think of such a thing as overriding any decision that was made by the bishop and the president of her stake in regard to giving temple recommends. Unless the local authorities recommend people I would not think of doing such a thing. I feel very sorry for Sister Musser. I am sure she is in sympathy with her husband who took another wife after the declaration of President Smith, and he was excommunicated from the Church. In my heart of hearts I cannot help feeling that any woman who is in sympathy with a husband that has been excommunicated ought not to be recommended to the temple but I did not care to tell her as I did not wish to hurt her feelings.
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
90 years ago today - Jun 19, 1924
St. George Temple president David H. Cannon recounts how Apostle George F. Richards had "criticized [him] very severely for not adhering to the unwritten part of the ceremonies as he had been instructed to do." He tells the assembly of local Church leaders that Richards had instructed him to either burn the old rulings and instructions or send them to Salt Lake-"If we want any information, not contained in the 'President's Book' we will refer to the authorities of the Church for that information, but not refer to any of the old rulings." St. George Stake president Edward H. Snow (who became the temple president in 1926) then mentions one of the recent changes, "in no longer praying that the blood of the prophets and righteous men, might be atoned for, because this prayer has been answered and [is] no longer necessary." As if to pass approval on this change, Cannon recalled comments by Anthony W. Ivins (second counselor in First Presidency) given at a conference in Enterprise, stating that Ivins "took exception to the way the Law of Retribution was worded, and said he [Ivins] thought the language was harsh and that the authorities [had] thought of changing that" Three years later a letter from Apostle Richards to all temple presidents directed that they "omit from the prayer circles all reference to avenging the blood of the Prophets. Omit from the ordinance and lecture all reference to retribution"
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com, based on Michael Quinn's Mormon Hierarchy vols 1 & 2]
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com, based on Michael Quinn's Mormon Hierarchy vols 1 & 2]
120 years ago today - Jun 19, 1894
[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] At noon met with the Apostles in the Historian's office and listened to the testimony of Lorenzo Dow Hickey, one of the followers of Jas. [James] J. Strang and an apostle in the Strangite Church. He presented to us a book which he called "Book of the Law of the Lord." He claimed that this would have to be accepted by us and also the Josephites. I never listened to a more absurd recital in all my life that to the position that he took. He claimed that Jas. J. Strang was the true and lawful successor of the Prophet Joseph Smith and that he had called and tried to get Jos .Smith the son of the Prophet to allow him, Strang, to anoint him as the Prophet and leader of the Church and young Joseph had declined to let him do so, and that Strang had got into his house and anointed him the Patriarch of the Church and that today young Joseph was the right head od the Church. When asked whey he did now follow Joseph he said that he rejected him and his works but acknowledged his authority. Bro. Franklin D. Richards made full notes of what was said and I will not attempt to do so here. I have had some funny ideas expressed to me during my life but Bro. Hickey has about the strangest I have ever heard from any one who claimed to have good common sense.
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
145 years ago today - Jun 19, 1869
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] ... Brother Rich & Presidet B Young Spoke of organizing a school of the prophets. We met for that purpose.... At the Close of the Meeting a list of Names was Called to form a Branch of the school of the prophets.
We met in the school House. The list of Names was red. Presidet Young then Spoke of organizing A Stake of Zion & a High Council & the school of the Prophets. C. C. Rich spoke a short time. President B Young Called a vote to know if the Elders wished this to be So. A united vote. ...
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
We met in the school House. The list of Names was red. Presidet Young then Spoke of organizing A Stake of Zion & a High Council & the school of the Prophets. C. C. Rich spoke a short time. President B Young Called a vote to know if the Elders wished this to be So. A united vote. ...
[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 - Jun 19, 1844
Joseph Smith reportedly appoints James Jesse Strang to be his successor. [Per a Yale University document.]
[Source: Tidd, N. R., "Mormon Chronology, Rev 01 Volume 01" http://bit.ly/tiddchron]
[Source: Tidd, N. R., "Mormon Chronology, Rev 01 Volume 01" http://bit.ly/tiddchron]
170 years ago today - Jun 19, 1844
The NAUVOO NEIGHBOR prints Joseph's and Hyrum's testimony before the Nauvoo City Council explaining that Hyrum Smith "referred to the revelation, read to the High Council of the Church, which has caused so much talk about a multiplicity of wives; that said revelation was in answer to a question concerning things which transpired in former days, and had no reference to the present time." The article quotes Joseph Smith as having said, "They make it a criminality for a man to have a wife on the earth while he has one in heaven." He added that "the order [was] in ancient days, having nothing to do with [t]he present times." This issue also carries Hyrum's statement accusing William Law of adultery. Both Joseph and Hyrum are secretly practicing polygamy at this time.
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com, based on Michael Quinn's Mormon Hierarchy vols 1 & 2]
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com, based on Michael Quinn's Mormon Hierarchy vols 1 & 2]
170 years ago today - Jun 19, 1844
With a posse, David Bettisworth travels toward Nauvoo to arrest Joseph again. As he tries to pick up men on his way, they refuse to go with him, saying his orders are forgeries. Joseph orders General Dunham to put guards completely around the city and on all roads leading out of town. All powder and lead are readied for use by the legion. Joseph estimates that there are approximately 600 men surrounding Nauvoo at this time.
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
180 years ago today - Jun 19, 1834
[Heber C. Kimball diary - Zion's Camp] "This night we camped on an elevated piece of land between two branches of the Fishing River. Just as we halted and were making preparations for the night, five men rode into the camp and told us we should see h—I before morning, and such horrible oaths as came from their lips I never heard before. They told us that sixty men were coming from Richmond who had sworn to destroy us; also seventy more were coming from Clay County, to assist in our destruction. These men were black with passion and armed with guns, and the whole country was in a rage against us, and nothing but the power of God could save us. All this time the weather was fine and pleasant. Soon after these men left us we discovered a small black cloud rising in the west, and not more than twenty minutes passed away before it began to rain and hail, but we had very little of the hail in our camp; all around us the hail was heavy. The thunders rolled with awful majesty, and the red lightnings flashed through the horizon, making it so light that I could see to pick up a pin almost at any time through the night; the earth quaked and trembled, there being no cessation; it seemed as though the Almighty had issued forth his mandate of vengeance. The wind was terrible. Many trees were blown down, and others twisted and wrung like a withe. The mob came to the river two miles from us, but the river had risen to that height that they were obliged to stop without crossing over. The hail fell so heavy upon them that it beat holes in their hats, and in some instances even broke the stocks off their guns. Their horses fled, leaving their riders on the ground; their powder was wet, and it was evident the Almighty fought in our defense; This night the river raised forty feet. In the morning I went to the river, in company with Brothers Joseph Smith, Hyrum Smith, and Brigham Young and others, as we had it in contemplation to proceed that morning to Liberty, Clay County; but we could not continue our journey as there was no way to cross the river, it was then overflowing its banks; previous to this rain falling it was no more than ankle deep; such a time was never experienced by us before. Still we felt calm all night and the Lord was with us. The water was ankle deep to us all night, even on that eminence, so we could not sleep. * * *
[Source: Whitney, Helen Mar, Jeni Broberg Holzapfel, and Richard Neitzel Holzapfel, A Woman's View: Helen Mar Whitney's Reminiscences of Early Church History, Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 1997]
[Source: Whitney, Helen Mar, Jeni Broberg Holzapfel, and Richard Neitzel Holzapfel, A Woman's View: Helen Mar Whitney's Reminiscences of Early Church History, Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 1997]
185 years ago today - 19 June?, 1829
Eight Witnesses, Christian Whitmer, Jacob Whitmer, Peter Whitmer, Jr., John Whitmer, Hiram Page, Joseph Smith, Sr., Hyrum Smith, and Samuel H. Smith, visit a grove near the Smith family home in Manchester (Anderson 2001, pp. 455-56) and have an experience described in a later "Testimony of Eight Witnesses" published as part of the 1830 Book of Mormon. The statement says, with regard to the golden plates, that they "did handle with our hands and we also saw the engravings thereon, all of which has the appearance of ancient work and of curious workmanship." There are differing opinions on whether the witnesses believe they had seen the plates in vision, or with their natural eyes. Lucy Mack Smith says that the plates had been carried by this grove by "one of the ancient Nephites." The June 19 date is suggested because Lucy Mack Smith said the event occurred on a Thursday, and that the following Monday, the company went to visit E.B. Grandin to see if he will publish the Book of Mormon.
[Source: Wikipedia: Chronology of Mormonism, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_Mormonism]
[Source: Wikipedia: Chronology of Mormonism, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_Mormonism]
55 years ago today - Thu Jun 18, 1959
[David O. McKay Office Journal] [At Temple Council meeting] Since Elder Marion G. Romney is leaving soon to tour the European Missions, he inquired regarding the counsel he should give to the Saints in Europe regarding their emigrating to this country so I gave the following instructions to him: There is no command regarding this matter, but we wish the people to build up the branches where they live so that those who never can get away from those countries over there will be built up spiritually, and receive their temple endowments and all blessings they could obtain if they were to come here. . . . The same condition exists in South Africa where an entire generation of men and women had never even seen a member of the Council of the Twelve. I think we should have a temple there some day. It is a long way for these people to go to a temple and the distances are great in that country and under present conditions they are obliged to live and die without having the blessings of the Temple and realize the significance of them.
[Source: McKay, David O., Office Journal]
[Source: McKay, David O., Office Journal]
100 years ago today - Jun 18, 1914; Thursday
President Lyman reported that on Monday the Twelve heard the case of Bro[ther]. Donald McGregor, who had entered into an unlawful and unauthorized marriage. As he answered every question without hesitation, and as they felt he had been sincerely misled, they did not feel like excommunicating him, but disfellowshipped him; also for the further reason that he had entered into this marriage before any who had done likewise had been dealt with on their standing in the Church. the Twelve also met on Wednesday to further consider the case of [Apostle] M[atthias]. F. Cowley, in view of recent reports about him. After due consideration the Council decided that no further action could be taken in his case.
[Source: First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
[Source: First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
130 years ago today - Jun 18, 1884
[John Nicholson to Lorenzo Snow, June 18, 1884] ... Applications are, as you are aware, being constantly made for the privilege of having women sealed to their husbands who have heretofore been sealed to other men who were not their husbands. Similar applications are being made in the cases of sealing children to parents who have heretofore been sealed to men who were not their natural fathers. I have been unofficially informed that when such cases are pla[i]n, and when the applications are in harmony with the teachings given at the last April Conference, the rule in the Temple should be to proceed without application to President [Wilford] Woodruff. If this be the decision of the First Presidency, I would be obliged if I could be so informed officially by the placing of a plain "yes" or "no" upon this sheet. [Written in pencil:] yes, W[ilford] Woodruff
[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]
155 years ago today - Jun 18, 1859
"Prest. Young told Br. [Jacob] Hamblin that as soon as a court to Justice could be held, so that men could be heard without the influence of the military he should advise men accused to come forward and demand trial on the charges preferred against them for the Mountain Meadows massacre." Hamblin (who did not participate in massacre) refers to his conversation when he testifies at trial of John D. Lee in 1876.
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com, based on Michael Quinn's Mormon Hierarchy vols 1 & 2]
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com, based on Michael Quinn's Mormon Hierarchy vols 1 & 2]
170 years ago today - Jun 18, 1844
Joseph Smith says the Holy Ghost is waiting to take a body like Jesus Christ and the Gods before him.
[Source: Tidd, N. R., "Mormon Chronology, Rev 01 Volume 01" http://bit.ly/tiddchron]
[Source: Tidd, N. R., "Mormon Chronology, Rev 01 Volume 01" http://bit.ly/tiddchron]
170 years ago today - Jun 18, 1844 (Tuesday Afternoon)
Joseph Smith to the Nauvoo Legion his Last adress in which he called for all philanthropic men from Main to the Rocky Mountains & from the East & the west & from the North & the south to the help of this people also he cursed the Mob.â€"with thunder & lightning & the sword plague Earthquakes & pestilence & devouring fire.
[Source: William Clayton Diary -Words of Joseph Smith, 383]
[Source: William Clayton Diary -Words of Joseph Smith, 383]
170 years ago today - Jun 18, 1844
Joseph proclaims martial law in the city of Nauvoo. The Legion and the police force are ordered out, and the 5,000 men of the Nauvoo Legion line up close to the Mansion House. Joseph stands on the top of the frame of the building in full uniform to address them, which he does for an hour and a half. This is his last public oration. He notes that the Saints are innocent of the charges that are being put against them. But he says that as American citizens, it is time to stand up for their rights. He draws his sword and raises it to heaven and says, "I call God and angels to witness that I have unsheathed my sword with a firm and unalterable determination that this people shall have their legal rights, and be protected from mob violence, or my blood shall be spilt upon the ground like water, and my body consigned to the silent tomb. . . . I do not regard my own life. I am ready to be offered a sacrifice for this people; for what can our enemies do? Only kill the body, and theirpower is then at an end. Stand firm, my friends; never flinch. Do not seek to save our lives, for he that is afraid to die for the truth, will lose eternal life."
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
180 years ago today - Jun 18, 1834
Outside of Richmond, Missouri. On the Zion's Camp march, Joseph Smith was in poor health and had no provisions, but he managed to travel 17 miles before eating.
[Source: BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith, http://byustudies.byu.edu]
[Source: BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith, http://byustudies.byu.edu]
18890618
[Wilford Woodruff to Phineas W. Cook, June 18, 1889] 125 years ago - Jun 18, 1889
[Source: temp]
[Source: temp]
100 years ago today - Jun 17, 1914; Wednesday
M[atthias]. F. Cowley's case. He was not convicted of conniving at new plural marriages.
[Source: Rudger Clawson, Record of Meetings and Activities, Quinn Papers, original in LDS Archives]
[Source: Rudger Clawson, Record of Meetings and Activities, Quinn Papers, original in LDS Archives]
100 years ago today - Jun 17, 1914; Wednesday
M[eetin]g B[isho]ps B[ui]ld[in]g--10 council Matthias F. Cowley--Geo[rge] J. Cannon--
Afternoon same--10 Council there--all spoke--
Decided take no action against Bro[ther]. [Matthias F.] Cowley.
[Source: Heber J. Grant, Diary]
Afternoon same--10 Council there--all spoke--
Decided take no action against Bro[ther]. [Matthias F.] Cowley.
[Source: Heber J. Grant, Diary]
100 years ago today - Jun 17, 1914; Wednesday
Sat with Council of the [Matthias F.] Cowley case. Nothing new proved. Evidence insufficient to convict.
I think he is as much sinned against as sinning.
[Source: David O. McKay, Diary]
I think he is as much sinned against as sinning.
[Source: David O. McKay, Diary]
100 years ago today - Jun 17, 1914
[Apostle George Albert Smith Journal] "Wednesday June 17/14 was in meeting all day with my quorum in M F [Apostle Matthew F.] Cowley case. Am glad nothing further was found to add to his guilt."
[Source: Journals of George Albert Smith]
[Source: Journals of George Albert Smith]
100 years ago today - Jun 17, 1914; Wednesday
Prayer was offered by President [Francis M.] Lyman, who afterwards stated that he would like to clear Brother [Matthias F.] Cowley's case up so that he will not have to appear before us again. I desire to direct attention to the fact that since the administration of President [Wilford] Woodruff and President [Lorenzo] Snow that there has been no legitimate authority given to perform these [plural] marriages. That President Snow made it very clear, as Brothers [Heber J.] Grant and [Rudger] Clawson will remember that these things must stop. At the beginning of 1900 he laid it down to the Church and to the world that there was no member of this Church who had the right to enter into such marriages or perform such. Now it appears that Brother Cowley has been the prime mover during the administration of President Lorenzo Snow and very nearly all that he has done has been done since that time. Dr. James E. Talmage on request read the declaration of President Snow also that of President [Joseph F.] Smith who has been particularly moved in this desire to find out who is doing these things. Now, said President Lyman, I believe that we have discovered that Brother Cowley has been the prime mover in this thing and at the head of it all especially since President Snow's time. He has been the prime mover in getting prominent brethren presidents of [s]takes and officers in the Church into this condition. I think we have discovered that he has been right in it from 1898 until the declaration of President Smith in 1904. That he carried on the business as far as he could and when he came to the danger point of doing this himself, I believe that he arranged for some one else to do this thing in Canada and other places and his brother-in-law Woolf now stands in a very grave condition. Brother Woolf's son John came and plead with me to handle his father but not to publish it to the world. Brother Cowley set the trap for Brother [Judson] Tolman and then for Brother John W. Woolley and I think he got Brother John W. Taylor into his trouble. I want Brother Cowley to stand up here and tell us what he has done that we don't know, he has not been required to do these things. In the presence of John Henry Smith, A[nthony]. W. Ivins and myself, John W. Taylor advised us that you had offered him the privilege of entering this relationship and that he accepted although your senior. You seem to think you had the authority and took brother Thomas Chamberlain and others away from me after I had advised them that this thing could not be done. Brother Merrill of Pocatello [Idaho] also claimed that you encouraged him although he never got a wife.
Brother Cowley, in answer to President Lyman's charges said: I appear before you now, brethren humbly as I have each of the ten times I have been before you heretofore. I answered nearly all
Brother Lyman's accusations four years ago. I never started Brother Woolley out and I never started Brother Woolf and did not know he was doing this thing unauthorized. President [Charles O.] Card was appointed by President [George Q.] Cannon and when he became a little demented, I understand Brother Woolf was attending to it, but I had nothing to do with it. I did not start Brother Tolman out. I did not know about him until James A. Eldredge told me. I never encouraged [Donald] McGregor, in fact discouraged him the same with Woolfenden who I heard claimed Tolman had the authority, but I told him that Tolman did not have the authority. Bro[ther]. Cowley referred to Bishop Robinson's case (of Mexico) who tried to influence me to marry him and I refused, but he later got a woman so I understand, but I had nothing to do with it. The first one I married was Ben E. Rich in 1898. Brother [Marriner Wood] Merrill kept a record of all these marriages in the Logan Temple under the direction of President Cannon. Brother [Douglas M.] Todd was the next, as I remember. I married Thomas Chamberlain after he had gone to President Cannon. I married Joseph Robinson. Brother Merrill married his son Ezra in the Logan Temple, if I am not mistaken. I had nothing whatever to do with the marriage of that man. I feel that it is an awful injustice to me to accuse me of being at the bottom of all of these cases. I knew of the declaration of President Snow, but at the same time President Woodruff made a declaration which was violated during his administration and he knew of it and did not sop it. I went direct to President Snow regarding Joseph Morrell and Louis Kelsch and Brother Snow told me that he could do nothing but would not interfere with the unfinished work of President Woodruff and President Cannon. I cannot prove this statement as there was no one present except President Snow and myself. I was married to Sister Harker by the Apostle who was the president of the Logan Temple [i.e., Marriner Wood Merrill]. President George Q. Cannon authorized me under the administration of President Woodruff in 1898. I was made an Apostle in 1897. President Cannon told me personally to attend to these matters. There was no laying on of hands, but he gave the authority personally. The commission at this time was to marry Brother Ritch [sic], but later I was told by him that I could attend to suitable cases. He never told me to stop and no one has told me to stop, except Brother Ivins claims he brought me the word from President Smith that unless a bigger man than he came there (Mexico) I was to quit. This was after President Smith's declaration and I never performed a ceremony after that and for some time before that time. When people came to me before this time and after I discouraged the parties, especially after John W. Taylor and I were dropped from the Quorum. I don't think the people who go into this are induced except by themselves, it seems to be in them. I have discouraged those who have come to me in private but have not the opportunity to publicly declare against it. Arthur Clark has come to me and I have told him that it could not be done but he says that he cannot be convinced that it is not right, that the principle is correct and that the Lord will provide a way for it to be practiced. I have heard from George Parkinson that Nathan Clark says he feels
alright about his present condition and hopes to get another wife within a short time. Brother Cowley referred to a prophecy which Arthur Clark says President Smith made about thirty years ago about plural marriages. I married John M. Cannon, George M. Cannon, Frank Y. Taylor, but not Edwin Bennion ... I have not told missionaries in the Temple that they could be taken care of after they came home. Have not stated in the Southern States or any other mission that any one who did not accept plural marriage as alright and right to practice it now would be entitled to his release. I do not remember being present when President Smith's declaration was considered in the Council, I was traveling in the mission at the time President Smith came in. I think the last ceremony I performed was in 1901 for President Udall. I did not go to him he came to me.
President Lyman: How many marriages did you perform between 1898 and 1901?
Cowley: I don't remember, I have no idea. I married [Abraham] Owen Woodruff, Brigham Young [Jr.] and others but did not marry Brother [George] Teasdale.
President Lyman: Brother Cowley married about fifty men.
Cowley: I married Bro[ther]. Parkinson to Miss Woolley in Colorado. Brother Parkinson told Brother Lyman Brother [Marriner Wood] Merrill performed this marriage.
G[eorge]. A[lbert]. Smith: President Snow was very much put out when he heard of Kelsch's marriage. Brother Cowley explained the reason that he had let other people know about it. President [Arthur] Winder remarked that it was President Cannon's folly.
G[eorge]. F. Richards: What caused you to discontinue the marriages.
Cowley: I dont remember any personal interview but as these things were closing down and growing closer all the time, I suppose I felt they should stop. I never encouraged any one after 1901 or 1902. My last wife was married in 1905 in Canada by Brother Woolf. Brethren, I feel that I have been punished sufficiently in the past and should not be punished again. I am willing to do anything I can to stop these things if you will tell me what to do. I have been misrepresented, I have not done what has been claimed.
President Lyman: There is very little evidence of Brother Merrill doing that kind of marrying and Brother Taylor also, but Brother Cowley has been the man who has done it by the scores. It is quite possible that Brother Card was authorized to perform marriages and sealings, but not plural marriages.
Cowley: Brother Woolf got the authority I understand from President Cannon. He married Heber Allen and Brother Wood. Brother Merrill had a list of names of those he married.
[Source: Excerpt from the Minutes of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles]
Brother Cowley, in answer to President Lyman's charges said: I appear before you now, brethren humbly as I have each of the ten times I have been before you heretofore. I answered nearly all
Brother Lyman's accusations four years ago. I never started Brother Woolley out and I never started Brother Woolf and did not know he was doing this thing unauthorized. President [Charles O.] Card was appointed by President [George Q.] Cannon and when he became a little demented, I understand Brother Woolf was attending to it, but I had nothing to do with it. I did not start Brother Tolman out. I did not know about him until James A. Eldredge told me. I never encouraged [Donald] McGregor, in fact discouraged him the same with Woolfenden who I heard claimed Tolman had the authority, but I told him that Tolman did not have the authority. Bro[ther]. Cowley referred to Bishop Robinson's case (of Mexico) who tried to influence me to marry him and I refused, but he later got a woman so I understand, but I had nothing to do with it. The first one I married was Ben E. Rich in 1898. Brother [Marriner Wood] Merrill kept a record of all these marriages in the Logan Temple under the direction of President Cannon. Brother [Douglas M.] Todd was the next, as I remember. I married Thomas Chamberlain after he had gone to President Cannon. I married Joseph Robinson. Brother Merrill married his son Ezra in the Logan Temple, if I am not mistaken. I had nothing whatever to do with the marriage of that man. I feel that it is an awful injustice to me to accuse me of being at the bottom of all of these cases. I knew of the declaration of President Snow, but at the same time President Woodruff made a declaration which was violated during his administration and he knew of it and did not sop it. I went direct to President Snow regarding Joseph Morrell and Louis Kelsch and Brother Snow told me that he could do nothing but would not interfere with the unfinished work of President Woodruff and President Cannon. I cannot prove this statement as there was no one present except President Snow and myself. I was married to Sister Harker by the Apostle who was the president of the Logan Temple [i.e., Marriner Wood Merrill]. President George Q. Cannon authorized me under the administration of President Woodruff in 1898. I was made an Apostle in 1897. President Cannon told me personally to attend to these matters. There was no laying on of hands, but he gave the authority personally. The commission at this time was to marry Brother Ritch [sic], but later I was told by him that I could attend to suitable cases. He never told me to stop and no one has told me to stop, except Brother Ivins claims he brought me the word from President Smith that unless a bigger man than he came there (Mexico) I was to quit. This was after President Smith's declaration and I never performed a ceremony after that and for some time before that time. When people came to me before this time and after I discouraged the parties, especially after John W. Taylor and I were dropped from the Quorum. I don't think the people who go into this are induced except by themselves, it seems to be in them. I have discouraged those who have come to me in private but have not the opportunity to publicly declare against it. Arthur Clark has come to me and I have told him that it could not be done but he says that he cannot be convinced that it is not right, that the principle is correct and that the Lord will provide a way for it to be practiced. I have heard from George Parkinson that Nathan Clark says he feels
alright about his present condition and hopes to get another wife within a short time. Brother Cowley referred to a prophecy which Arthur Clark says President Smith made about thirty years ago about plural marriages. I married John M. Cannon, George M. Cannon, Frank Y. Taylor, but not Edwin Bennion ... I have not told missionaries in the Temple that they could be taken care of after they came home. Have not stated in the Southern States or any other mission that any one who did not accept plural marriage as alright and right to practice it now would be entitled to his release. I do not remember being present when President Smith's declaration was considered in the Council, I was traveling in the mission at the time President Smith came in. I think the last ceremony I performed was in 1901 for President Udall. I did not go to him he came to me.
President Lyman: How many marriages did you perform between 1898 and 1901?
Cowley: I don't remember, I have no idea. I married [Abraham] Owen Woodruff, Brigham Young [Jr.] and others but did not marry Brother [George] Teasdale.
President Lyman: Brother Cowley married about fifty men.
Cowley: I married Bro[ther]. Parkinson to Miss Woolley in Colorado. Brother Parkinson told Brother Lyman Brother [Marriner Wood] Merrill performed this marriage.
G[eorge]. A[lbert]. Smith: President Snow was very much put out when he heard of Kelsch's marriage. Brother Cowley explained the reason that he had let other people know about it. President [Arthur] Winder remarked that it was President Cannon's folly.
G[eorge]. F. Richards: What caused you to discontinue the marriages.
Cowley: I dont remember any personal interview but as these things were closing down and growing closer all the time, I suppose I felt they should stop. I never encouraged any one after 1901 or 1902. My last wife was married in 1905 in Canada by Brother Woolf. Brethren, I feel that I have been punished sufficiently in the past and should not be punished again. I am willing to do anything I can to stop these things if you will tell me what to do. I have been misrepresented, I have not done what has been claimed.
President Lyman: There is very little evidence of Brother Merrill doing that kind of marrying and Brother Taylor also, but Brother Cowley has been the man who has done it by the scores. It is quite possible that Brother Card was authorized to perform marriages and sealings, but not plural marriages.
Cowley: Brother Woolf got the authority I understand from President Cannon. He married Heber Allen and Brother Wood. Brother Merrill had a list of names of those he married.
[Source: Excerpt from the Minutes of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles]
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