80 years ago today - 80 years (in 1 days) - Jul 31, 1935

[J. Reuben Clark & David O. McKay letter] We have your letter of July 29, 1935, dealing with the question of the handling of certain persons who, it would appear from your letter, are living in adultery, and trying to cloak their relations under the guise of plural marriage.

We enclose herewith a copy of the circular letter, dated Jun 17, 1933, by the First Presidency, and which covers the situation fully.

You will see from this circular that these people, if living as supposed, are not living the law of plural marriage, but are, on the contrary, simply adulterers.

From your statement it would seem that these people are committing crimes against the laws of Arizona. If this be true it is your duty to assist the civil offices in their efforts to uphold and enforce the law.

You are of course familiar as to the steps to be taken in the matter of excommunication from the Church, and you should proceed against these people at once in order to purge the Church of sin.

[Source: J. Reuben Clark and David O. McKay, Letter to Charles C. Heaton, 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 - 115 years (in 1 days) - Jul 31, 1900; Tuesday

[Anthony Ivins] Prest. [Joseph F.] Smith informed me that his visit was primarily to meet [BYU President] Bro. [Benjamin] Cluff [Jr.] & advise him to either disband his expedition [to look for Book of Mormon evidence in South America] or reorganize it. ... Prest. Smith said for some time reports had reached the Presidency from this expedition which were alarming. The idea had been conveyed that this was a church expedition. ... Bro. Cluff spoke. Said he greatly desired to go forward. If he returned now the expedition would be a failure & his reputation was worth [more] to him than his life. ... Prest. Smith said that he would not be placed in a position to be held responsible for the act of any individual you must choose for yourself. ...

[Source: 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) - http://bit.ly/AnthonyIvins]

170 years ago today - 170 years (in 1 days) - Jul 31, 1845

Thursday prayer circle meeting of males at 4 p.m. at Willard Richards's office where "prayers were offered for a number of the sick and for several other general subjects" . However, female members of the Anointed Quorum were told that there was "no prayer meeting to day" .

[Source: Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Signature Books, 1994, Appendex: Meetings and Initiations of the Anointed Quorum, 1842-45, http://amzn.to/origins-power]

180 years ago today - 180 years (in 1 days) - Jul 31, 1835

Patriarchal Blessing of Loren Babbit given by Joseph Smith, Sr. ... if thou wilt keep the commandments of God and observe the word of Wisdom[,] Thou shalt live to see thy three score years and ten and be satisfied with life... thou shalt be useful unto thy fellow men. through the seventy years: of thy life which thou mayest live upon the earth, if thou desire.

[Source: Patriarchal Blessing Book 1:112-113, quoted in Early Patriarchal Blessings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Joseph Smith Sr. (Author), H. Michael Marquardt (Editor), http://amzn.to/rCBHVe]

35 years ago today - 35 years ago - Jul 30, 1980

CALGARY HERALD reports: "Blood Indians camped, on the northern edge of Cardston, Alberta, Canada, pledging to pull all their money out of banks in the town of 3200 and refusing to purchase anything from Cardston businesses. . . . Anger was directed at Cardston residents and specifically at the Mormon Church. The town was founded by Mormon pioneers and is the site of a temple. This is the latest turn in the dispute over the Bloods' claim to land they say is rightfully theirs-land that takes in the town. Blood Indians claimed they have heard racist statements from town residents, been refused service in local businesses, and been refused treatment in the local hospital. They now plan to take their economic revenge."

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

90 years ago today - 90 years ago - Jul 30, 1925

[George F. Richards] Attended weekly council meeting in the Temple where I received the appointment to attend, alone, the Jordan Stake Conference Aug. 8&9. In my report I suggested that the last written speech of [recently passed away anti-evolutionist preacher] Wm. J. Bryan on Christianity & Evolution should be published in pamphlet form or in some form where it could be referred to and be accessible. Pres. Grant said it could be published in the Improvement Era. After the meeting I phoned Editor Ed. Henderson who said he would see to it &c.

[Source: George F. 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]

120 years ago today - 120 years ago - Jul 30, 1895

[Heber J. Grant] [Council meeting of all presidency, 6 apostles, stake presidents, Caine, Richards, King] The matter under discussion was the activity taken by our sisters in the political matters. Nearly all of us who were present expressed regrets that the sisters should have taken such an active part in political matters and gone out and made so many speeches, and while we regretted this the general feeling was that for the Presidency to now ask these sisters to stop their work would bring ill feelings about among those not of us, and the cry would go out that the Church was not allowing its members perfect freedom. It was decided to let the matter go along as it had started, but the feeling generally was that leading officials in the Relief Societies should have kept out of active work in political matters. ...

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

165 years ago today - 165 years ago - Jul 30, 1850

[Wilford Woodruff] Our Encampment or the first division of it was called to pass through one of those Horrid scenes to day which are so much dredded by all Emigrating Companies on the plaines which was A stampede of all the ox teams with the family waggons of the first division with the exception of the 10 Baggage who were in the rear. No person who has not Experienced or witnessed one of those dredful scenes cannot form any Correct idea of them And it is almost impossible to give A Correct description of it for to behold 30 or 40 ox teams from 2 to five yoke of oxen in each team Attached to a family waggon of goods & women & Children All in an instant like the twinkling of an Eye be deprived of all reason sens & government & be filled with madness frantic & fright & all dart off with lightning speed each running their own way, roaring, bellowing rolling & tumbling over each other waggons upsetting smashing their wheels Exles & tongues spilling the goods women & Child in the street, for the next teams to trample under their feet as they roar & charge on their way with their yokes bows & chains flying in evry direction is A scene not easily imagined or described. ...

[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 - Jul 30, 1845

[Patriarchal Blessings] Patriarchal Blessing of Gad Sprague given by William Smith ... for thou art a descendant of the house of Caleb partaking some little of the blood of Dan as made known by the Spirit in this blessing & like the fierce tempest or the waves of the troubled Sea when thy Soul is troubled because of wrongs thou shalt be borne on until Vengeance hath been afflicted on those who are the murderers of Prophets ...

[Source: Patriarchal Blessings]

10 years ago today - Jul 29, 2005

Yahoo webpage news story states: "The Mormon faith looks set to lose its 150-year-old dominance over US state of Utah by the year 2030 as more people leave the church than can be recruited, figures showed."

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

55 years ago today - Jul 29, 1960

Hugh Nibley writes in a letter, "The two greatest nuisances in the Church are (a) those who think they know enough to disprove the claims of Joseph Smith, and (b) those who think they know enough to prove them."

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

75 years ago today - Jul 29, 1940

[President Heber J. Grant] Spent the day at home in bed most of the time reading from the News and the Era. I had the pleasure of reading an editorial from the Deseret News which was considered too strong to be published. I wish we could publish it. It attacks President Roosevelt very strongly on running for a third term. I do not know how many Latter-day Saints would want to stop the News if we should publish it, but I almost feel like having it published even if we should lose a hundred or five hundred subscribers. I think we have almost got to the point where the Deseret News ought to take a strong stand against Roosevelt running for a third term, no matter how many people might be almost ready to apostatize.

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

80 years ago today - Jul 29, 1935

The attention of President Clark was called to a newspaper statement that Senator King had given notice that he intends to submit a resolution in the Senate for the purpose of investigating conditions in Germany relative to the German government's attitude toward the Jews and Catholics in that country and that a private inquiry might be made by German representatives and if they find that he is a member of the Church and representing the State of Utah in the Senate, there might be some reprisals on the part of the present German government against the Latter-day Saints in Germany and it might result in the expulsion of the elders from Germany. President Clark asked that a letter incorporating these ideas be sent to him at the Foreign Bondholders'.

[Source: First Presidency, Meeting with Presiding Bishopric, Minutes, 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]

90 years ago today - Jul 29, 1925

[George F. Richards] I read Wm Jennings Bryans speech prepared to deliver in court at Dayton, Tenn. in defense of Religion and Christianity and denouncing Evolution. I mailed the paper to my son Oliver in Germany. It was of about 9 or 10 columns length and was in this mornings Tribune. I indorse the article fully and think it should be published in pamphlet form as Mr. Bryans dying testimony. He died suddenly on the 26th inst. and before the speech was delivered.

[Source: George F. 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]

100 years ago today - Jul 29, 1915

Bruce Redd McConkie, later a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, is born in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

130 years ago today - Wednesday, Jul 29, 1885

[John Henry Smith] I spent five hours today at Mr. Warnacks talking with my Cousin Joseph Smith of the Reorganized Church. We canvassed a number of points but could not agree.

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

170 years ago today - Jul 29, 1845

Patriarchal Blessing of Samuel Swanner given by William Smith ... yet some foul and evil Spirit has watched thy path and laid a snare for thy Soul and endeavored to bring thee down into captivity and so destroy and bind thy Spirit that all of thy future usefulness might be hindered, but the days of thy captivity shall not be all the days of thy life for when the Saints receive thine [their] enduement [endowment] the Elders of Israel their anointings then shall the opening glories of this latter dispensation beam with greater effulgence upon thine understanding then Lo and behold thy deliverance shall come

and like the bird uncaged thy Soul shall be set free to flit itself in distant lands and amidst thy starry heavens the trackless skies thy Spirit shall rove ungovernable in the far off distance until lost in the contemplation of heaven the knowledge of God ...

[Source: Patriarchal Blessings, Marquardt Papers]

170 years ago today - Jul 29, 1845

Patriarchal Blessing of Samuel B. Merrill given by William Smith ... it shall be given unto thee to be an avenger of the Blood of the Prophets & patriarchs to stand in the fierce conflict & contend for the rights of thy Brethren still it shall not be given unto thee to have a spirit of war for peace and union is uritten [written] on the tablets of thy heart but to defend the innocent and the cause of Zion thy soul shall rise up in Mighty strength and a Mighty spirit whose power is unknown so shall not thy strength be comprehended for in the day of battle thine arm shall be vexed with the power of Laban[']s sword and unto conquest shall thou be borne off Victorious ...

[Source: Patriarchal Blessings, Marquardt Papers]

115 years ago today - Jul 28, 1900

Advertisement in THE LOGAN NATION for "all wool Garments," with illustration of two men and woman in one-piece underwear from neck to wrist and ankle.

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

115 years ago today - Jul 28, 1900; Saturday

This morning Elders Heber J. Grant and Horace G. Whitney came to the office for the purpose of conferring with President [Lorenzo] Snow on the business [McCune expenses keeping the Herald solvent with is own funds]. President Snow came in the office from his room in the Beehive House and in connection with President [George Q.] Cannon heard what these brethren had to say in relation to the proposition to turn the Herald over to the Church and have some one appointed to run it as a Democratic paper as it has always been. President Snow told these brethren that there was but one answer to give, and that was that the Church could not undertake to do any such thing as this, and Brother Whitney was to coney this answer to Mr. [Alfred W.] McCune. With this decision President Cannon fully agreed. After this short interview President Snow again returned to this room as he was not feeling so well this morning.

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

120 years ago today - 1895. July 28

Moses Thatcher dedicated the [Matthew] Cowley home in Preston, "That herein might be born prophets, seers, and revelators to honor God."

[Source: Van Wagoner, Richard and Walker, Steven C., A Book of Mormons, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

125 years ago today - Jul 28, 1890 (Monday)

The Utah Supreme Court, in the matter of the estate of George Handley, deceased, rendered a decision to the effect that polygamous children could not inherit from the father.

[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

140 years ago today - Jul 28, 1875

DESERET NEWS reports one of meetings where apostles preach United Order: "The vote to renew their covenants by baptism was very general by the people."

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

145 years ago today - Jul 28, 1870

DESERET NEWS reports that on his return to Salt Lake City yesterday, Milando Pratt says that he and Thomas Rich saw Bear Lake Monster from shore: "The portion of the body out of the water was about ten feet long," with head like a walrus.

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

155 years ago today - Jul 28, 1860

[Wilford Woodruff] A Quorum of /70/ Apostles when united are Equal in authority to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.

The Twelve Apostles or traveling Council are to be special witnesses of the name of Christ in all the world. They are Equal in authority in there decissions to the Presidency of the Church. They are to preside in all the world whare the three first Presidency are not.

The three first Presidency Preside over the whole Church & administer in all the ordinances of the Church which Consists of a Presidet & his two Councellors.

The President of the Church holds the keys of the sealing powers & his Council act in Concert with him [in] all things.

Should the Presidency die The Twelve Could organize another Presidency & should the Presidency & Twelve all be slain the Seventies being Equal in power & Authority to the Twelve or first Presidency Could organize both Quorums.

A Bishop has two Councellors. There is no difference in the authority of his Councillors. The 2d has as much authority as the first. A Bishop should have his Councilers with him on the trial of a case in order to make it Legal as it takes three to make a Quorum.

The High Priest Could organize the Church in all its parts if all other Authorities were dead for they have the Melchezedek Priesthood out of which grow all of the Higher offices of the Church.

An Apostle is the highest office in the Church & kingdom of God. Joseph Smith was a Prophet Seer & Revelator before he was baptized or ordained to the Aaronic Priesthood or had any Authority to administer one of the ordinances of the house of the Lord. He was afterwords ordained to the Aaronic Priesthood then to the Melchezedek Priesthood & Apostleship which is the highest office in the Church & kingdom of God on Earth. When a man is ordained to the Apostleship & keys thereoff if he dies in faith He will hold those keys to all Eternity. All the Prophets Patriarchs & Apostles who ever did or ever will hold the keys of the Apostleship if faithful unto death will hold them forever.

Presidet Young was an Elder when he was ordained to be one of the Twelve Apostles. Some asked the Question how He could officiate as an High Priest not having previously been ordained a High Priest. Joseph Said the Apostleship covered all the offices of the High Priesthood the same as a private member ordained a High Priest Could officiate as a Deacon Teacher Priest or Elder.

Presidet Young said "I ordained most of the two or three first Quorums of the Seventies and Joseph gave me vary particular instructions to ordain them all High Priests which I did. When a man is ordained an High Priest Seventy or one of the Twelve He Can officiate in all the lesser offices of the Church whether He has been ordained to that office or not.

When I met with the Saints in Nauvoo at the first meeting after Josephs death in defending the true organization against Sidney Rigdon I had it in my mind all the time that there would have to be a Presidency of three Appointed but I knew the people Could not bear it at the time and on our return as the pioneers from the valley I Broached the subject first to Brother Woodruff and afterwords to the rest of the Quorum. They received it & finally sustained it.

[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 - Jul 28, 1845

Patriarchal Blessing of Rachael Sirrine given by William Smith ... I now seal upon thy head that is after the power of an endless life; a glorious immortality and a name written even golden letters in the archives of heaven enrolled upon sacred records deposited in the temple of God in the holiest of all, for it shall be given unto thee to live to see the prosperity and glory of Zion until her perfection and beauty shall go forth as a Lamp that burneth the Saints receive their enduement [endowment] and then shalt thou explore every apartment of the house of the Lord ... and him who has been appointed as thy companion here on earth shall prove thy Savior and thy Deliverer on Mount Zion and he shall preside over thee and great shall be his reward in the kingdom of heaven ... thou shalt shine forth as one of the Stars of the firmament, and none shall outshine thee in all their glory for with Angels thy voice shall be heard and that too with praises and Hossannas [Hosannas] to the most high God ...

[Source: Patriarchal Blessings]

170 years ago today - 1845 28 Jul.

Jonathan Dunham, despondent about disobeying Joseph Smith's orders to rescue him from jail, commits suicide. Later disclosures indicate that Dunham, who was a captain of Nauvoo's police, major-general of the Nauvoo Legion, and a Council of Fifty member, accomplished the suicide by asking a native American friend (Lewis Dana, fellow member of the Fifty) to "kill and bury him."

[Source: Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 7: Selected Chronology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]

175 years ago today - Jul 28, 1840

"There is a tradition among some of the descendants of Levi Hancock that Mrs. Hancock was sealed to Joseph Smith in Nauvoo and that one of her sons may have been his child. Since there seems to be no printed or manuscript evidence to support this story, however, it must be taken with considerable reserve."

[Source: Exploring Mormonism: Polygamy Timeline, http://www.exploringmormonism.com/polygamy-timeline/]

100 years ago today - Jul 27, 1915

Revolutionary followers of Emiliano Zapata execute Mexican branch president Rafael Monroy and Vincente Morales, also LDS, after each tells Zapatistas: "I cannot renounce my religion."

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

115 years ago today - Jul 27, 1900; Friday

Mr. McCune sent for Brother Whitney this morning and informed him that during the last fourteen months he had paid out of his private purse $56,000. to meet the expenses incurred in running the Salt Lake Herald; that his experience in politics has brought anything but pleasure to himself and family, but he had now concluded to withdraw from them (i.e. politics and the newspaper business) and to cease paying out any more money to keep the Herald alive; in fact, he had decided to cease entirely after meeting this week's payroll, which would amount to about $1,000. He fully realized that the downfall of the Herald would be a great triumph for the Salt Lake Tribune, and he asked Brother Horace G. Whitney to wait upon the First Presidency and inform them in confidence of what he proposed to do, and to say to them that if they could see their way clear to continue the publication of the Herald in connection with the News, he would turn it over to anybody among the loyal democrats who would be willing to form themselves into a company for the purpose of continuing its publication with the understanding however, that its expenses be met by them.

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

155 years ago today - Jul 27, 1860

Presidet Young read me a letter from Bishop Maughn Stating that there had been a fracus with the Indian. The Brethren had taken a one eyed Indian prisioner for Stealing and several Indians Came down to liberate him. The Indian started to run & the guard shot him dead. The other Indians shot at the guard & killed a Brother Reed & mortally wounded Samuel Cousins through the lungs. The Indians then took to the mountains & found two Merrils getting wood. They shot Ira Merrill dead & his Brother badly wounded. They took some Indians prisioners. The rest gathered their forces & Came down to liberate them & they met 100 rifles. They then held a Council. The Indians then agreed to go & get those who had shot the white men & bring them in & put them to death & make pease.

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

10 years ago today - Jul 26, 2005

SALT LAKE TRIBUNE article "Keeping members a challenge for LDS church" opens with, "The claim that Mormonism is the fastest-growing faith in the world has been repeated so routinely by sociologists, anthropologists, journalists and proud Latter-day Saints as to be perceived as unassailable fact. The trouble is, it isn't true."

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

115 years ago today - Thursday, Jul 26, 1900

Pres. Cannon also stated that Pres. J. F. Smith had been appointed by Pres. Snow to visit Mexico and investigate matters pertaining to the B. Y. Academy Scientific Expedition to South America, the expedition now being somewhere in the neighborhood of Nogales, Mexico..

[Source: Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson]

145 years ago today - Jul 26, 1870

Apostle Joseph F. Smith performs proxy sealing of Scotland's Queen Maude (or Matilda. b. 1104) as eternal wife to martyred prophet Joseph Smith. Similar ordinances are performed by Apostle Wilford Woodruff on Sept 5, for eight political heroines or female rulers including Charlotte Corday (who murdered the radical Marat during the French Revolution) and Empress Josephine (wife of Napoleon). On Sept. 15 second counselor Daniel H. Wells seals two Catholic saints as wives to founding Mormon prophet: Saint Helena (mother of Roman emperor Constantine) and Saint Theresa (b. 1515 in Spain). These are first women of international prominence sealed as wives to Joseph Smith, but during fifty years after his death hundreds of deceased women are similarly joined to him, even though many had husbands during their lifetimes.

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

150 years ago today - Jul 26, 1865 (Wednesday)

The Indians attacked Glenwood, Sevier Co., Utah, wounded a man and drove off nearly all the stock belonging to the settlement.

[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

65 years ago today - Jul 25, 1950

[David O. McKay] At 3 p.m. Pres. Smith, Pres. Clark, and I met with Ernest L. Wilkinson on the proposition of his being appointed president of the Brigham Young Univ. There is no doubt but that Ernest Wilkinson has the right viewpoint of the mission of the Brigham Young University, especially with regard to its mission and the preaching of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. He senses clearly the fact that every department in the school should, as he stated, "be impregnated" with the spirit of the gospel, and that the teachings of the principles of the gospel should not be confined to a Theological Department with other departments feeling that they are estranged therefor. Brother Wilkinson is a clear thinker; he makes no pretense to having had any experience in school management; he possesses outstanding ability, which I believe he can direct towards a good organization. On the whole I was favorably impressed with him and earnestly hope and pray that he will succeed.

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

75 years ago today - Jul 25, 1940

[Heber J. Grant] We met Reed Smoot and his wife ... Reed is so thoroughly forgotten now. It is a case of 'gratitude is a lively sense of favors to come.' When Reed was a Senator working for everyone he was one of the most popular Senators in the United States. Today there is very little attention given to him.

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

90 years ago today - Jul 25, 1925

... Whenever possible brethren should be ordained Elders before coming to the temple for endowments. ... Sisters married to non-members should not be recommended to the temple to receive endowments. ...

[Source: Heber J. Grant, Anthony W. Ivins, and Charles W. Nibley to B. H. Roberts, July 25, 1925, quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]

145 years ago today - Jul 25, 1870

[Brigham Young] While I am making my remarks I sincerely request the attention of the congregation; I desire them to keep silence, let there be no whispering, nor talking to each other, nor moving of feet; and if the babies can outnoise me, why it will be because my lungs have grown weak. ... . While on our way to the Missouri river some kind of a spirit; whether it was intuitive knowledge, prescience or promptness of intellect, no matter. Something told me, that the government of the United States would make a demand on the camp of Israel for troops to go into the Mexican war. If the God of Heaven did not reveal it to me I should like to know who did. ... if the Government of the United States hunt us here and afflict our families while we are gone to find an asylum for them, I will hunt them all the rest of my life, so help me God.'" (Applause.) ... [The Mormon Battalion] fought no battles in all their career. But they were the first ones that ever raised the American flag on Mexican territory and preserved it there. (Applause.) ... I will say right here that of all men who ever did live upon the earth lawyers are the worst. Doctors and priests are bad enough, but lawyers will ruin everybody and send all to hell. They are the worst and the most unfit for human society of any beings that live... could we not live as other men do? Is it not my privilege to lead about a wife or a sister, a neighbor's wife or any female as much as any other man's? Certainly; but when I do it, I do it legally and lawfully, not clandestinely. This is the curse that is upon this nation, and one of the greatest curses in the sight of heaven and justice that now rests on the United States. It is their abuse of females; millions of them are wasted. According to their own showing thousands of females have perished in the streets of New York since we have been in these valleys, proba- bly double and almost treble the entire number of females we have in this Territory...

[Source: Manuscript Addresses of Brigham Young. 7 Vols. Elden J. Watson, ed. Salt Lake City: Smith Secretarial Service, 1979-84. 6:30-35, 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]

155 years ago today - Jul 25, 1860

One of Presidents Youngs waggons was turned over into the Big Cotton wood. It turned twice over with two women & several Children. One woman was hurt in the sholder. One Child Came near drowning.

[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 - Jul 25, 1845

[Patriarchal Blessings] Patriarchal Blessing of Vienna Jacques Shearer Smith(?) given by William Smith ... in peace thou shalt sit down in Zion & walk her streets unmolested and with Joseph[']s remnants thy Salvation shall be greatly extolled for as one of the seed of Joseph thou shall be numbered with the 144,000 partaking of the power and glory of the Priesthood of those who are called the honored ones of the earth ... & thy Soul shall enter into perfect rest and with loud Hossannas [Hosannas] to God & the Lamb exclaim it is enough my Soul is full and thou shalt be rewarded and thy reward is great and all thy past afflictions and scenes of sorrow and grief shall be forgotten ...

[Source: Patriarchal Blessings]

170 years ago today - Jul 25, 1845

July 25 1845 Friday Joseph Woodruffs [b.18 Jul 1845 - d.12 Nov 1846] Blessing received under the Hands of his Father Wilford Woodruff ... I seal thee against the power of Death sickness & the destroyer untill thy work is finished ... Thou shalt lay thy hands upon the heads of thy Father and Mother in their old age and bless them & thou shalt be a Comfort unto them. Thou shalt be Baptized the day thou art eight years of age ...

I ordain the to be a High Priest after the order of Melchisedic ... when thou shalt arive to years of accountability & discretion thou shalt have power to administer in the ordinances thereof..

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

175 years ago today - Jul 25, 1840

A Dr. John C. Bennett writes to the Saints stating his intention to move to Nauvoo and join the Saints. He will later become an influential member of the Church. He has the reputation of being both a genius and an imposter. In addition to being a professor, a preacher, a doctor, and a military leader, he is also claimed to be an abortionist, a wife deserter, and a traitor. When he gains Joseph's confidence, he helps draft the Nauvoo charter and push its passage through legislature, shows him how to drain the Nauvoo swamps, and administers quinine to the sick of Nauvoo, thus saving many lives. He later writes one of the most famous exposes against the Saints. In writing to Joseph a second time he states that "wealth is no material object with me. I desire to be happy."

[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology; History of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (7 volumes) 4:169-70.]

185 years ago today - Jul 25, 1830

Joseph Smith receives a revelation instructing missionaries to curse those who will not listen to them: "And in whatsoever place ye shall enter, and they receive you not, in my name, ye shall leave a cursing instead of a blessing, by casting off the dust of your feet against them as a testimony, and cleansing your feet by the wayside"

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

40 years ago today - Jul 24, 1975

President Spencer W. Kimball dedicates the new twenty-eight-story Church Office Building in Salt Lake City, Utah.

45 years ago today - Jul 24, 1970

LDS headquarters invites only prominent Republicans to Salt Lake City airport to greet U.S. president Richard M. Nixon who has asked to meet with First Presidency. This excludes Utah's Democratic governor Calvin M. Rampton who "almost had to force his way into the receiving line." First Presidency secretary Francis M. Gibbons latter acknowledges that this is "a snafu in protocol." DESERET NEWS reports that Nixon addresses crowd of 15,000 from steps of Church Office Building at 47 East South Temple Street, but Nixons cancel their scheduled tour of Temple Square because of what Utah's Congressional representative Laurence J. Burton describes as "stupid, crazy, threatening" posters of "dissident groups." Presidency secretary Gibbons later describes these as "militant blacks" and antiwar protesters.

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

115 years ago today - Tuesday, Jul 24, 1900

[Rudger Clawson] Pioneer Day. The ceremonies connected with the unveiling of the Brigham Young Statue at the head of Main Street took place at 10 a.m. The statue and pedestal were draped with American flags and a platform was built around them for the accommodation of the speakers and prominent people. ...

I have often said that if I were a wealthy man, I would set aside a portion of my means to be used in the temple for the salvation of the dead. There are many good people in the church who can be employed to work for the dead, and I have ascertained that it will cost from 75c to $1.00 for each dead person who is baptized for and endowed, which work, if accepted by them, means salvation to their souls; and Pres. Lorenzo Snow says that in nine cases out of ten the work will be accepted, so that, it might be said, there is very little risk connected with an investment of this kind.... Now, I am not a man of means, but to show forth the sincerity of my desire, I have decided to set aside a small part of my monthly income for the purpose above explained and shall start the fund with $4.00. I hope in the future to accomplish much good, under the blessing of the Lord, from this very small beginning.

[Source: Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson]

130 years ago today - Jul 24, 1885

[Wilford Woodruff] This is the Aniversary of the Arival of the Pioneers into Salt Lake Valley. I Carried President Brigham Young in my Carriag through Emigration Canyon into the valley of the Great Salt Lake 38 years ago this day. And this is the day Appointed By the Presidet of the United States, The General of the Armey, & Gov Murry to send An Armey unto Salt Lake to Destroy the Mormons if they Put the flag at half mast. And yet in the Providence of God President Clearland was under the necessity of Commanding all the People of the United States to place the flag at half mast on that particular day and Gov Murry Commanded the People of Salt [Lake City] to do the same for Gen [Ulysses] Grant was Dead [had died the day before] and the Lord had prepared him as a scape Goat to bear of the Sins of the Mormons.

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

145 years ago today - Jul 24, 1870

[Brigham Young] It has been observed here this morning that we are called fanatics. Bless me! That is nothing. Who has not been called a fanatic who has discovered anything new in philosophy or science? We have all read of Galileo the astronomer who, contrary to the system of astronomy that had been received for ages before his day, taught that the sun, and not the earth, was the centre of our planetary system? For this the learned astronomer was called "fanatic," and subjected to persecution and imprisonment of the most rigorous character. So it has been with others who have discovered and explained new truths in science and philosophy which have been in opposition to long-established theories; and the opposition they have encountered has endured until the truth of their discoveries has been demonstrated by time. The term "fanatic" is not applied to professors of religion only...I will tell you who the real fanatics are: they are they who adopt false principles and ideas as facts, and

... Who can tell us of the inhabitants of this little planet that shines of an evening, called the moon? When we view its face we may see what is termed '"the man in the moon,'" and what some philosophers declare are the shadows of mountains. But these sayings are very vague, and amount to nothing; and when you inquire about the inhabitants of that sphere you find that the most learned are as ignorant in regard to them as the most ignorant of their fellows. So it is with regard to the inhabitants of the sun. Do you think it is inhabited? I rather think it is. Do you think there is any life there? No question of it; it was not made in vain. It was made to give light to those who dwell upon it, and to other planets; and so will this earth when it is celestialized. Every planet in its first rude, organic state receives not the glory of God upon it, but is opaque; but when celestialized, every planet that God brings into existence is a body of light, but not till then. ...

[Source: Journal of Discourses. Liverpool, England, 1853-86. 13:267-274, 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 - Jul 24, 1855

[Wilford Woodruff] On the 24 & 25 of July I attended the Polosophical society in the social Hall & Herd till midnight the most thrilling soul stiring speeches, essays, Addresses, songs, music &c &c that I ever herd. It was truly interesting to enjoy such a feast of the production of the strongest talent in the world. We also was addressed on saturday evening at the Universal Scientific Society by [ ] On the subject of Phrenology followed by O. Pratt & W Woodruff.

[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 - Jul 24, 1845

Thursday, "the Holly order" met at 4 p.m. at Willard Richards's "office" , and "the Quorum agreed to take no more snuff & tobacco for 6 weeks" .

[Source: Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Signature Books, 1994, Appendex: Meetings and Initiations of the Anointed Quorum, 1842-45, http://amzn.to/origins-power]

40 years ago today - Jul 23, 1975

First Presidency circular letter authorizes stake presidents to ordain bishops. Previously this was restricted to general authorities.

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

140 years ago today - Jul 23, 1875

[Mountain Meadows] The trial of John Lee opens in the courtroom of Judge Jacob Boreman. Payment for Lee's defense is arranged by Brigham Young. The prosecution's star witness is Philip Klingensmith.

[Source: Linder, Douglas, The Mountain Meadows Massacre Trials, http://www.law.umkc.edu/faculty/projects/FTRIALS/mountainmeadows/leechrono.html]

145 years ago today - Jul 23, 1870

[Brigham Young] There never was an earth without an Adam. There never was a time when earths were not coming into existence and going out. There never was a time when there was no Savior upon an earth, but man in his finite being cannot comprehend eternity. God the Father came and begotten a Son of the Virgin Mary, just the same as we beget out children; and consequently Jesus partook of his fathers divine nature, and was therefore competent in offering a sacrifice to satisfy divine justice. -- Salt Lake City

[Source: Leonard J. Arrington Papers, 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]

150 years ago today - Jul 23, 1865

The First Presidency and Twelve issue a statement condemning Biographical Sketches "for its inaccuracy."

[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]

160 years ago today - Jul 23, 1855

The foundation of the Salt Lake Temple was finished.

[Source: Church News: Historical Chronology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, http://www.ldschurchnewsarchive.com/articles/58765/Historical-chronology-of-The-Church-of-Jesus-Christ-of-Latter-day-Saints.html]

180 years ago today - Jul 23, 1835

[Wilford Woodruff] Rode in company for the last time with Elder Warren Parrish to the mouth of Sandy. ... The time had now arived however painful it might be for me [to] take the parting hand with Br PARRISH. I Know not that we shall ever meet again untill we meet in Eternity. May the blessings of God crown his days & prepare him for the Celestial Kingdom. O worthy Brother farewell but not forever.

I am now left alone without human aid to asist me in preaching the gospel. My circuit is about 100 miles in extent besides the care of all the Churches within the limits of the same. Who is weack & I not weack? Who is offended & I burn not? O may the LORD give me strength as my day & many souls as seals of my ministry. O GOD prepare me for the battle.

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

140 years ago today - Jul 22, 1875 (Thursday)

The trial of John D. Lee, indicted for murder, was commenced at Beaver.

[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

155 years ago today - Jul 22, 1860 (Sunday)

Smithfield, Cache Co., was attacked by Indians. A fight ensued; John Reed and Ira Merrill and two Indians were killed, and several others wounded on both sides.

[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

165 years ago today - Jul 22, 1850

[Hosea Stout] Attended Court Before Esqr Farr First case at 9 a. m. State vs Wm Maykin upon the complaint of J. C. Dill for stealing two of his horses in Echo creek Cañon. The Defendand was convicted & sentenced to 2 years hard labor.

[Source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

55 years ago today - Jul 21, 1960

First Presidency issues statement allowing young men to serve missions at age 19, even though they had not met educational and military qualifications previously required.

[Source: Church News: Historical Chronology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, http://www.ldschurchnewsarchive.com/articles/58765/Historical-chronology-of-The-Church-of-Jesus-Christ-of-Latter-day-Saints.html]

80 years ago today - Jul 21, 1935

President Heber J. Grant dedicated the Hill Cumorah Monument near Palmyra, N.Y.

[Source: Church News: Historical Chronology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, http://www.ldschurchnewsarchive.com/articles/58765/Historical-chronology-of-The-Church-of-Jesus-Christ-of-Latter-day-Saints.html]

90 years ago today - Jul 21, 1925

The infamous "Monkey Trial" ended and John Scopes was found guilty of teaching Darwinism.

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

105 years ago today - Jul 21, 1910 (Thursday)

Pres. Rudger Clawson and other Elders were arrested in Berlin, Germany, and spent the following night in jail.

[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

105 years ago today - Jul 21, 1910; Thursday

I learned today from Brother Ezra C. Dalby of Rexburg, Idaho, that Brother Josiah E. Hickman, of Beaver [Utah], and principal of the church school there had been excommunicated from the church for violating the instructions of the authorities of the church in relation to plural marriage. I am very sorry, because I look upon Brother Hickman as a very sincere and good man, who may have become over zealous. There are several others also implicated in the same conditions there, (apparently through the influence of Brother Hickman) who have been investigated by the authorities and handled. I do not know the extent of the investigation in their cases.

While I believe in the principle of plural marriage, I do not think we are under any obligations to violate the instructions of the President of the church in the matter. He has said there shall be no more such marriages performed in the church, and that those who go into that order of marriage now will be handled on their fellowship.

[Source: James D. Cummings, Diary]

115 years ago today - July 21st 1900.

... Bro. Cluff here to get supplies for his S.[outh] A.[merica] Expedition ...The idea had been conveyed that this was a Church expedition. Read letter of instruction from Pres. Snow...that it was the unanimous opinion the the Pres. & Apostles that the expedition disband, but if reasons exist which we do not know that a part of the expedition proceed. Cluff must assume the entire responsibility....

Bro. Cluff spoke. Said he greatly desired to go forward. If he returned now the expedition would be a failure & his reputation was worth more to him than his life. He would rather fail on the Isthmus or on the banks of the Magdelena River than turn back now. He did not desire to go forward, however, unless he could do so with the blessings of the Lord....

Pres. Smith made remarks. Bore strong testimony that the work of the Lord would spread till the L. D. S. would control in this land, (&) U. S....

[Source: Diary Excerpts of Anthony W. Ivins, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

120 years ago today - Jul 21, 1895

[Francis M. Lyman] [Parowan] I spoke for an hour and 50 minutes upon statehood and woman, or equal suffrage. I had fair liberty but the pitch of my voice was too high. I have never had better liberty in speaking on the subject.

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

140 years ago today - Jul 21, 1875

LDS political newspaper SALT LAKE HERALD publishes John D. Lee's "confession" that "all who participated in the lamentable transaction, or most of them, were acting under orders that they considered it their duty-their religious duty-to obey." Lee says that when informed of Mountain Meadows Massacre, Brigham Young "wept like a child, walked the floor and wrung his hands in bitter anguish."

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

165 years ago today - Jul 21, 1850

[Brigham Young] I asked him [Elder Day] how God looks as he was a preacher of the gospel - tell me how the kingdom of glory looks - after a long period he answered, '"I'll not pressure to answer the question how a spirit looks - how do you suppose Father Adam looked - he said like you. I smiled and asked how did his daddy look - he said he was in the image of his father ... the Jews has not 1/4 portion of the light of the advent to the gentiles know of the second advent of Christ, is it a marvel they rejected him - not half so much as the gentiles are now mistaken ... if I were to tell this congregation where they are - I now know and you will know, when the Lord led off those - he took them as the city of Enoch from the earth '- Gent this earth is divided - you may search this earth from earth to west, do you think they are frozen up. when the ten tribes return - you will find them millions and millions - they increased rapidly ... there is a curse on them for killing the Messiah - and the day is set and when it will be wiped away, we are at the very threshold when Saviors shall come and save the House of Esau, the gentiles, Ephraim in his first career was the savior of this fathers house and he said it is the house of Ephraim and Manasseh. Ephraim is to come up on Mount Zion and save the House of Esau, they have mingled with the blood of gentiles - only a drop in a family - every particle of a drop will be gathered out yet Ephraim will come up on Mount Zion -

[Source: Thomas Bullock Minutes, 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 - Jul 21, 1845

Patriarchal Blessing of Jane Rigby given by William Smith ... I bless thee with that power that shall have dominion over evil Spirits and they shall be rebuked. And by thy prayers they shall flee away ...

[Source: Patriarchal Blessings]

170 years ago today - Jul 21, 1845

Patriarchal Blessing of James Rigby given by William Smith ... as an avenger of the blood of Prophets & Patriarchs thou shalt stand as a mighty warrior and contend with great strength for the cause of Zion ...

[Source: Patriarchal Blessings]

170 years ago today - Jul 21, 1845

Patriarchal Blessing of Benjamin Chase given by William Smith ... as a Savior on Mount Zion thou shalt stand in the last days numbered with the 144,000 ... the names of thy fathers shall be revealed unto thee, up to the time they lost the Holy Priesthood.

[Source: Patriarchal Blessings]

20 years ago today - Jul 20, 1995

Presbyterian General Assembly of the United States adopts resolution that LDS church is "a new and emerging religion that expresses allegiance to Jesus Christ in terms used within the Christian tradition." This ecumenical statement is at odds with Protestant denominations which define Mormonism as non-Christian cult. However, in recognition of LDS church's own claim to be neither Catholic nor Protestant, this document adds that LDS church is "not within the historic apostolic tradition of the Christian Church of which the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) is a part." This pro-Mormon resolution is drafted and presented by Utah's Presbytery, eighty-five years after it fomented several anti-Mormon campaigns nationally.

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

30 years ago today - Jul 20, 1985

One hundred thousand people attend a Church dance festival at the Rose Bowl in Southern California.

70 years ago today - Jul 20, 1945

[David O. McKay] President McKay, upon the insistence of President Smith and President Clark, took a much needed vacation from the office.

[Source: David O. McKay 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]

105 years ago today - Jul 20, 1910

The Christian Endeavor Society of Missouri, an early forerunner of the American Religious Right, instituted a campaign to ban movies depicting kissing between non-relatives.

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

130 years ago today - Jul 20, 1885 (Monday)

A monster mass meeting was held in Paris, Bear Lake Co., remonstrating against the political oppression in that county, and petitioning Pres. Cleveland for redress.

[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

170 years ago today - Jul 20, 1845

[Brigham Young] I believe and know that no mans body changes in all his life - if the body changes in seven years I wonder what body that was, gotten by the Eternal Father born of the Virgin Mary and suffered for the sins of the world - put down in death and laid in the sepulcher by Joseph - it is the corruptible system that passes away the refined body stays - I am forty, I wonder which body will be resurrected - I have been long enough in this church to have two bodies, I would hate to have six or seven bodies for one spirit - I should be a kind of a monster - ... the refined particles stay and the corrupt particles flee away - Jesus Christ rose with the same wounds that he died with.

[Source: Thomas Bullock Minutes, 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]

175 years ago today - Jul 20, 1840

Patriarchal Blessing of Robert D. Foster given by Joseph Smith, Sr. ... thou Shall not loose [lose] thy inheritance, ... thou Shall speak to the raging Sea, and its angry waves Shall be Still the winds Shall be Still at thy bidding, ... thou Shalt behold thousands fall by the Sword, and hundreds perish in famine... and I seal thee against the destroyer, and the Devil, and all delusion Spirits, and the destroying Angle [Angel] Shall pass by thee I seal [thee] up to Eternal life in the name of Jesus Christ Even So Amen

[Source: Patriarchal Blessings]

40 years ago today - Jul 19, 1975

LDS church and its Bonneville Productions receive national advertising award ("Clio") for its "Homefront" advertising on television. Church also receives Clio awards in 1979, 1980, 1984, 1992, and 1993.

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

115 years ago today - Jul 19, 1900; Thursday

[Heber J. Grant] I explained tha some of the [Benjamin Cluff] party were giving glowing and wonderful accounts of what the party was to accomplish namely--that Brother Cluff was to unearth the City of Zarahemla; that Prof[essor]. Wolfe was to discover plates and have the gift to interpret them; that they were going to accomplish things greater even than the discovery of the plates containing the Book of Mormon; this expedition meant the dawn of freedom to the Church etc. etc.

The general feeling of the brethren was that somebody should be sent to Mexico to intercept the expedition and decide whether it should be abandoned or a small party should proceed.

[Source: Heber J. Grant, Diary]

115 years ago today - Jul 19, 1900; Thursday

Mosiah Hancock, a man well on to seventy years, to accompany the [Benjamin Cluff] expedition [to Central/South America] believing that they might find some new plates as a result of their explorations. Brother Grant could not help but believe that they would be in jeopardy of their lives and belongings while traveling in Mexico.

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

175 years ago today - Jul 19, 1840

[Joseph Smith Prophecies] ... speaking of the Land of Zion [DEL: that :DEL] It consists of all N. & S America but that any place where the Saints gather is Zion which every righteous man will build up for a place of safety for his children [DEL: that :DEL] The olive trees are 12 stakes which are yet to be built not the Temple in Jackson [County, Missouri] as some suppose for while the 12 [DEL: olive :DEL] stakes are being built we will be at peace but the Nations of the Earth will be at war.

... we will continue pleading like the Widow at the feet of the unjust judge but we may plead at the feet of Majistrates and at the feet of Judges At the feet of Governors and at the feet of senators & at the feet of [DEL: the :DEL] Pre [s]idents for 8 years it will be of no avail. We shall find no favor in any of the courts of this government. The redemption of Zion is the redemption of all N & S America and those 12 stake must be built up before the redemption of Zion can take place ...

We shall build the Zion of the Lord in peace untill the servants of that Lord shall begin to lay the foundation of a great and high watch Tower and then shall they begin to say within themselves what need hath my Lord of this tower seeing this is a time of peace &c--Then the Enemy shall [DEL: brak :DEL] come as a thief in the night and scatter the servants abroad when the seed of these 12 Olive trees are scattered abroad they will wake up the Nations of the whole Earth Even this Nation will be on the very verge of crumbling to pieces and tumbling to the ground and when the constitution is upon the brink of ruin this people will be the Staff upon which the Nation shall lean and they shall bear [DEL: away :DEL] the constitution away from the very verge of destruction --Then shall the Lord say go tell all my servants who are the strength of mine house my young men and middle aged &c come to the Land of my vineyard and fight the battle of the Lord--Then the Kings & Queens shall comethen the rulers of the Earth shall come then shall ail saints come yea the Foreign saints shall come to fight for the Land of my vineyard for in this thing shall be their safety and they will have no power to choose but will come as a man fleeth from a sudden destruction--But before this the time shall be [DEL: when :DEL] these who are now my friends shall become my enemies and shall seek to take my life and [DEL: shall be m :DEL] there are those now before me who will more furiously pursue me [DEL: and :DEL] the more dilligently seek [DEL: to :DEL] my life and be more blood thirsty upon my track than ever were the Missouri Mobbers You say among yourselves as did them of old time it is I & is it I But I know these things by the visions of the Almighty.

... And it is now wisdom in God that we should enter into as compact a city as posible for Zion and Jerusalem [DEL: and :DEL] must both be built up before the coming of Christ [DEL: This will near a half of a century :DEL] How long will it take to do this 10 years Yes more than 40 years will pass before this work will be accomplished and when these cities are built then shall the coming of the Son of man be

... --And I prophecy in the name of the Lord that the state of Illinois shall become a great [DEL: mountain :DEL] and mighty mountain as a city set upon a hill that cannot be hid and a great that giveth light to the world [DEL: and :DEL] The city of Nauvoo als [o] shall become the greatest city in the whole world.

Curse that man who says to his neighbor you are a mean man because you do not believe as I do I now invite all liberall minded men to come up to Nauvoo and help to build up the city of our God We are not greatly distressed no nor ever will be ... We will build upon the top of this Temple a great observatory a great and high watch tower and in the top thereof we will Suspend a tremendous bell [DEL: whi :DEL] that when it is rung shall rouse the inhabitants of Madison wake up the people of Warsaw and sound in the ears of men [in] Carthage Then comes the ancient records yea all of them dig them yea bring them forth speedily

Then shall the poor be fed by the curious who shall come from all parts of the world to see this wonderful temple Yea I prophecy that pleasure parties shall come from England to see the Mamoth and like the Queen of Sheba shall say the half never was told them. School houses shall be built here and High schools shall be established and the great men of the [earth] shall send their sons here to board while they are receiving their education among us And even Noblemen shall crave the priviledge of educating their children with us and these poor saints shall chink in their pockets the money of these proud men received from such as come and dwell with us

Now brethren I obligate myself to build as great a temple as ever solomon did if the church will back me up. Moreover it shall not impoverish any man but enrich thousands I prophecy that the time shall be when these saints shall ride proudly over the mountains of Missouri and no Gentile dog nor Missouri dog shall dare lift a tongue against them but will lick up the dust from beneath their feet and I pray the father that many here may realize this and see it with their eyes. And if it should be (Stretching his hand towards the place and in a melancholly tone that made all hearts tremble) will of God that I might live to behold that temple completed and finished from the foundation to the top stone I will say Oh Lord it is enough Lord let thy servant depart in peace, which is my ernest prayer in the name of the L Jesus Amen ... [Howard and Martha Coray Notebook]

He (J.S.) says Zion is all North & South America The 12 Olive trees are 12 stakes J. Co. Mo. is the centre. The government is fallen & needs redeeming. It is guilty of Blood & cannot stand as it now is but will come so near dessolation [sic] as to hang as it were by a single hair!! -- Then the servants goes to the Nations of the earth, & gethers [sic] the strength of the Lord's house! a mighty army!! -- And this is the redemption of Zion -- When the saints shall have redeemed that government & reinstated it in all its purity & glory!! -- That America may be an asylum for the remnant of all nations [Orson Pratt to George A. Smith, 21 January 1841, Orson Pratt Papers, LDS Church Archives]

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

175 years ago today - Jul 19, 1840

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff] John Jones came to oppose us & his carriage broke down & flung him in the mud. He came to meeting but the Lord shut his mouth & he could not utter a word but left the room as soon as I closed.

[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 - Jul 19, 1835

"The remainder of this month, I was continually engaged in translating an alphabet to the Book of Abraham, and arranging a grammar of the Egyptian language as practiced by the ancients." On this same date, W. W. Phelps writes to his wife, "These records of old times, when we translate them and print them in a book, will make a good witness for the Book of Mormon." (In reference to the above Phelps letter, Hugh Nibley argues that because Phelps said "we translate them," all of Joseph Smith's notes, Egyptian grammars, etc., were not necessarily prepared by Joseph alone, if at all. Phelps apparently tried his hand at some of these things too, and scholars should be careful not to attack Joseph for the alphabet and grammar if they were, in fact, only vain attempts by W. W. Phelps.

[Source: History of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (7 volumes) 2:238; Brigham Young University Studies (various issues), Su '71, 394 - referenced in Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]

190 years ago today - Jul 19, 1825

[U.S. Religious History] Liberal members of Congregational churches in New England founded the American Unitarian Association.

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

35 years ago today - 35 years ago - Jul 18, 1980

[Spencer W. Kimball letter] ... This is an official invitation from the President of the Church for both of you to receive the most holy second anointings which it is planned will be given to you in the Ogden Temple on Sunday, August 24, 1980, at 3:00 p.m. For this you should arrange to bring your temple clothing and come also with a temple recommend. Other instructions will be given to you when we meet at the temple. If you wish to receive these blessings, please advise me immediately by letter. These blessings are to be given only upon your total worthiness. We would like you to indicate in your reply regarding this matter. This whole program should be totally confidential; and as a reply to family members as a reason for your being away from home that day, you may say you are going to a special meeting at the temple. * P.S. If you do accept, please complete the enclosed form and return it with your letter of reply.

[Source: Spencer W. Kimball, Letter dated July 18, 1980, quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]

115 years ago today - 115 years ago - Jul 18, 1900

With permission from First Presidency First Counselor George Q. Cannon, Apostle Matthias F. Cowley performs plural marriage ceremonies for Cannons son Hugh J. Cannon and nephew John M. Cannon.

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

140 years ago today - 140 years ago - Jul 18, 1875

G[eorge] Q Cannon made some Remarks then read the rules of the United Order, which the greatest part of the Assembly voted to receive.

At the Close of the Meeting the Congregation surrounded a pool of water and Elder G Q Cannon went down into the water and Baptized 27 of the leading men of Davis County including the Bishops & their Councillors and Elders John Taylor and W Woodruff Confirmed them.

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

140 years ago today - 140 years ago - Jul 18, 1875

Apostle Orson Pratt preaches in Salt Lake City that rebaptism "seems to be a kind of standing ordinance for all Later-day Saints who emigrate here, from First Presidency down; all are rebaptized and set out anew by renewing their covenants. After his counselor Daniel H. Wells euloguzes Emmeline Free Young, Brigham Young stuns those at funeral by instructing her children and grand children not to follow his plural wife's "bad example." In her manuscript "My Father's Wives," Susa Young Gates explains that "Aunt Emmeline became addicted to morphine in the later years of her life."

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

150 years ago today - Jul 18, 1865

President Young spoke 20 minuts on disease & its Cures. He said for the gravel [kidney stones] use Onions, or wintergreen. For the piles [hemorrhoids] or costivenees [constipation] use the syrenge. For sore Eyes put wet Earth in a rag & put on the Eyes. For heart burn let the wind go downwards & not upwards.

[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 - Jul 18, 1845

Patriarchal Blessing of Mary Walker given by William Smith ... the blessings of the living and the blessings of the dead are upon thee and thou shalt live to see many days and years to come and thy Soul shall not faint within thee neither shall it suffer the pain of death.

[Source: Patriarchal Blessings]

170 years ago today - Jul 18, 1845

Lucy Mack Smith obtains a copyright on her manuscript for her history of Joseph Smith and his progenitors. Seven years later Orson Pratt has the manuscript published in Liverpool England after many changes which include inserting Joseph Smiths account of the First Vision which was not mentioned in the original manuscript.

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

170 years ago today - Jul 18, 1845

[Wilford Woodruff] July 18th 1845 This morning at half Past Seven oclok Just 30 minutes past 7 Mrs Phebe W. Woodruff was deliverd of a fine Son After a Short sickness. I laid hands upon her at the commencement of her sickness. I told her it should be well with her & with her Child which was the case. This was the first Child we have had since our endowment & I thank the Lord that it is a Son for unto us a child is born unto us a Son is given. His name shall be Called JOSepH for unto him the Priesthood belongs. He is the first fruits of the fulness of the Priesthood out of the loins of Ancient Joseph through the linage of Ephraim given unto us in answer to our Prayers for we Asked the Lord to give unto us a Son And he has granted unto us our request.

We have dedicated & Consecrated him unto the Lord even from his mother womb he is Holy unto the Lord. My Prayer to my Heavenly father is that his life may be preserved to stand among the Sons of Zion bear the Priesthood with honor And bless his Father and Mother in their old age And Honor them that his days may be long upon the land which the Lord God of Israel shall give unto him.

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

45 years ago today - Jul 17, 1970

First Presidency letter ends financial independence of Relief Society by stopping payment of dues, prohibiting traditional Relief Society bazaar ("a noisy, carnival-like or commercial atmosphere"), and requiring that individual "Relief Societies sould immediately turn over to the appropriate Stake, Mission, Ward, Branch, or District presiding officers all assets which they have accumulated." This clarifies full intent of brief letter of Jun 10. Eliminating Relief Society's autonomy is central goal of Harold B. Lee's vision of church "correlation."

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

70 years ago today - Jul 17, 1945

3:30 p.m. Bishop Parley Eccles called at the office and reported the following:

Segolite Company'Don B. Colton, Bishop Parley Eccles, and V. A. Olson, Directors. They interested President Grant in the project and he invested several thousand dollars. Company has gone broke. It seems that some blame President Colton for having induced President Grant to invest. Brother Eccles says President Colton is not to blame, but rather than have aspersions directed at either President Colton's or his name, Brother Eccles offers to pay back personally the money President Grant put in.

[Source: David O. McKay 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]

100 years ago today - Jul 17, 1915

Two young Mormons, Rafael Monroy and Vincente Morales, are shot-execution style-in Mexico by supporters of Emilio Zapata and become the earliest martyrs of Mormonism in Mexico.

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

135 years ago today - Jul 17, 1880

Meeting held on July 17, 1880:

"Sister Whitney then sang one of her sweet songs of Zion in the language which was spoken and sung (the Prophet Joseph said) by our first parents in the Garden of Eden. Sister Snow explained that Joseph Smith told Mother Whitney 'If she would use the gift with wisdom it should remain with her as long as she lived.' Sister Zina then gave the interpretation. The theme of which was rejoicing and praise to the Great Author and Giver of good."

[Source: R[elief], S[ociety]. Reports," Woman's Exponent 9 (September 1, 1880):54]

140 years ago today - Jul 17, 1875

Wilford Woodruff writes: "I met at the Endowment House at 2 oclok [with] the Presidency & Twelve. President Young & G[eorge] A Smith went into the font and G. A. Smith Baptized President Brigham Young for the renewal of his Covenant and as an Example to others. G. A. Smith & Daniel H. Wells Confirmed him. President Young then Baptized G A Smith & Daniel H Wells & Confirmed them. President Young then Baptized Wilford Woodruff, Orson Pratt, & Albert Carrington and Confirmed them. Seven of the Twelve were Baptized by D H. Wells at Sanpete County several weeks ago. They were Confirmed by President Young."

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

175 years ago today - 1840: 17 July

[Patriarchal Blessing of John Landers given by Joseph Smith, Sen.] ... thou may remain till the Saviour of the world makes his appearance, and comes to the world without sin unto salvation. ... little or not gentile blood remaining in thy veins. ...

[Source: Typescript, P8 f22, RLDS Archives, in Selected LDS Patriarchal Blessings, New Mormon Studies CD ROM, Signature Book, 2009, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

120 years ago today - Jul 16, 1895

... In regard to the stories Father knew of only the one, that the golden plates <<and a stone>> through which he <<Smith>> had to look to read them were found in the side of a hill near Palmyra while he was diggin[g] for buried treasure. Father had nothing to do with making of the plates, they and never saw them; as a great favor he was allowed to "heft" them and to feel them in the bag in which they were kept and which was made like a pillow case. He does not think that any one besides "Joe Smith" ever saw the plates ... Father says that he never knew of their being dishonest accordin[g] to the common acceptation of the word. They were a good natured, ignorant, shif<<t>>less family, disliking hard work, spending their time in selling gingerbread, telling fortunes, locating water for wells, and digging for hid <<buried>> treasures; it was the ridicule, which people thought, which made him into he received for dig=ging whi that made <<him>> invent the story of the golden plates. ...

[Source: Philana A. Foster to E. W. Taylor, 16 July 1895, Theodore A. Schroeder Papers, Archives, Wisconsin State Historical Society, Madison, Wisconsin., as cited in Dan Vogel, Early Mormon Documents: Philana A. Foster To E. W. Taylor]

120 years ago today - Jul 16, 1895

[Brigham Young Jr.] Pres[iden]t [Lorenzo] Snow returned from Soda Springs. Met him at the Temple and we enjoyed a very interesting chat on the gospel. He is rather inclined to believe that our spirits always existed.

[Source: Brigham Young Jr. 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]

145 years ago today - Jul 16, 1870

Non-Mormons organized the Liberal party, which markedly divided Utah citizens for more than twenty years. "Godbeites" joined with the Gentiles for political purposes, with members of both groups calling for all who opposed "despotism and tyranny in Utah" and who favored separation of church and state to join in a founding convention held in the Gentile stronghold of Corrine.

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

150 years ago today - Jul 16, 1865

Presidet Young spoke one hour & 12 Minuts. He advised the people to get up 100 well disiplined Mounted men & to be in readiness at a moments warning to defend you against all Indians, & do your duty & say nothing to any man ... Use up [IE kill] thes wicked Indians who are killing the inhabitants & if these indians who profess to be friendly will not help bring them to justice, do not let them stay with you but treat them as Enemies, & if [a] white man will not help [-] make him...

[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 - Jul 16, 1845. Wednesday.

[William Clayton] ... Soon as she [5th wife, Diantha] got laid down she began to toss about and rave as if in great pain which seemed to increase untill she was perfectly out of her mind and raging. She tore her hair ... about half past 10 Sister Farr went and called Brother Farr. He came down and laid hands on her and rebuked the evil spirit and commanded it to leave her in the name of the Lord. She immediately calmed down and seemed to fall into a mild sleep. Soon after she commenced talking or rather answering questions. She seemed to be in the world of spirits on a visit, and about the first she conversed with was Brother Joseph and the conversation seemed to be on the subject of the massacre. She then appeared to go and visit a number of dead relatives who invariably enquired about their relatives on earth. The answers she gave were literally facts as they exist. She then enquired for William Smiths wife Caroline. She was soon taken to her and entered into conversation. Caroline asked about William of course, how her two girls were and whether he had got married. To all these interrogatories she answered in the nicest manner, avoiding carefully any thing which would wound Carolines feelings. She then enquired for Sister Richards and soon met with her. It seemed by her answers that Sister Richards asked how the Doctor felt when she left him, how his children were, and whether Lucy lived with him, all which she answered correctly. She then visited Wm. Snows first wife and conversed about Wm. and his daughter and father. She then appeared to go back to Brother Joseph and Hyrum Smith and Father Smith. Joseph asked about Emma and the children and how the Twelve and Emma felt towards each other &c. all which she answered wisely but truly. He also asked about Lydia [Moon] and gave her some instructions for Lydia. He asked about me and told her I was a good man. When she parted with her friends she always bid them "good bye" but when she parted with Joseph she said, "I am not in the habit of kissing men but I want to kiss you" which she appeared to do and then said "farewell." She then seemed to start back for home. She appeared all the time in a hurry to get back. She said she would like to tarry but she could not leave father and mother and another, but she would soon return and bring them with her and then she would tarry with them. She conversed about two hours in this manner and seemed overjoyed all the time. A pleasant smile sat on her countenance which continued after she awoke. It was one of the most interesting and sweet interviews I ever witnessed, and a very good spirit seemd to prevail all the time. I left about 1 o clock apparently much composed and comparatively free from pain.

[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://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]

170 years ago today - Jul 16, 1845

[Patriarchal Blessings] Patriarchal Blessing of Rhoda Reid given by William Smith ... to this end [d]ear sister, I seal thee up unto eternal life, and also seal upon thy head the blessings [of] the Resurrection power, to stand in that day numbered with the holy ones of the earth [a]nd priests and kings of heaven ...

[Source: Patriarchal Blessings]

170 years ago today - Jul 16, 1845

[Patriarchal Blessings] Patriarchal Blessing for Ann B. Peterson (deceased) given to Mary Ann Peterson (proxy) by William Smith ... A blessing by Wm Smith Patriarch in favor of Ann B Peterson deceased daughter of Edward and Mary Dennis born Monmouth Co New Jersey April 1818 On the head of Mary ann Peterson sitting as proxy daughter of William C & Elizabeth Patten born Lancaster Co Pen[n]sylvania 23d July 1822

Dear Sister I lay my hands upon your head in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazereth to seal upon you a blessing by proxy for her who is dead yet whose Spirit lives in heaven above ... but the fulness of her Salvation cannot be made perfect until her companion is with her ...

[Source: Patriarchal Blessings]

170 years ago today - Jul 16, 1845

[Heber C. Kimball] 16 Wensday. Spent part of the day at the Temple. B. Young and my self got teames to draw Lumber. At 6 Ockock Wm. Geen was buried most of the Twelve present. After dark I went to the River and Baptized Sarah [Ann Whitney] and Si[s]ter Winchester. [already baptized]

[Source: Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]

170 years ago today - Jul 16, 1845

[Brigham Young Sermon] I went with sister [Patty] Sessions to brother Green's Funeral. Pres B Young spoke. May I never forget the words that fell from his lips. He spake of the power the Saints would have over disease, The fall of the Earth, its redemption, also all those that ware destined to this planet or world. -- Nauvoo, Illinois

[Source: Zina Jacobs Young Journal, BYU Studies 19:3, 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]

190 years ago today - Jul 16, 1825

The REPUBLICAN ADVOCATE in Batavia, New York publishes the text of a speech in defense of Freemasonry: "He [Enoch] also caused a triangular plate of gold to be made, each side was a cubit long, . . .- he then engraved upon it the INEFFABLE CHARACTERS," Joseph Smith later uses the name "Enoch" to refer to himself.

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

100 years ago today - Jul 15, 1915; Thursday

[James E. Talmage] Attended Council meeting of the First Presidency and Twelve. Today I learned that during my absence I have been appointed by the First Presidency and Twelve to represent the Church in an address in San Francisco on July 29th in connection with the World's Congress of Religious Philosophies. At the time of the Columbian Exposition in 1893 the World's Congress of Religions was held, Elder Brigham H. Roberts presented himself as a representative of our Church and was promptly refused recognition. Though Brahminism, Confucianism, Shintoism and other oriental religions, as well as the so-called Christian sects, each and all could have a hearing the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was refused recognition. It is interesting now to note that the World's Congress of Religious Philosophies extends a very cordial invitation to the Church to be represented on their program.

[Source: James E. Talmage, Diary]

120 years ago today - Jul 15, 1895

THE RETURN, an RLDS publication, publishes a letter by Emma [Smith] Bidamon, Joseph Smith's widow: "I always feel a peculiar satisfaction in giving all the information on that subject that I can. Now the first that my husband translated, [the book] was translated by the use of the Urim, and Thummim, and that was the part that Martin Harris lost, after that he used a small stone, not exactly, black, but was rather a dark color, . . . ."

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

125 years ago today - Jul 15, 1890

Anti-Mormon party wins SLC school election

In another devastating blow to Mormon independence, on July 15, the anti-Mormon party wins the Salt Lake City school elections. This was part of a string of disasters. On July 1, the US Senate introduced a bill to ban Mormons from homesteading in Wyoming. On July 29, the Utah Supreme Court ruled that polygamous children could not inherit their fathers estates, and on August 5, the anti-Mormon party won almost every county office in Salt Lake and Weber Counties.

[Source: Tungate, Mel, Mormon Polygamy, http://www.tungate.com/polygamy.htm]

125 years ago today - Jul 15, 1890

[Heber J. Grant] I think more of the confidence of my friends than I do of all the other successes that have attended my labors

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

150 years ago today - Jul 15, 1865

[Wilford Woodruff] [Manti] A Company of 50 men went out to try to overtake & punish the Indians who were killing the people. Col Warren L Snow had Charge of the Command.

Our Meeting opened by prayer by W. Woodruff. John Taylor Spoke 28 minutes. (While speaking it was found that many had loaded guns in the Congregation. All that were loaded was taken out & stashed outside & a guard put over them.)

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

155 years ago today - Jul 15, 1860

[Brigham Young] The Lord would open the Earth & swallow up such Cities as New York, Boston, Philadelphia, & other great Cities of the Nations and the sea would heave itself beyound its bounds and famines would spread not ownly over this Continent but it will spread & be felt in States, Nations, & Continents and the Saints will Close there Eyes upon the scene and their hearts will be filled with paine.

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

160 years ago today - Jul 15, 1855

[Brigham Young] The Lord in his wisdom has appointed our location in the midst of Israel [Indians], which is a astounding miracle. How many times have you heard it spoken in tongues and prophesied of in days past and said that you should yet go and teach the Lamanites. If the Latter-day Saints are faithful in these things of teaching that people, all will be well with us ... I want to know if you feel to realize the promises in the Book of Mormon. Will you turn them [Indians] away empty? Instead of their being our inferiors, they are our superiors in many things, as they are the lawful heirs and we have sprung from the Gentiles

[Source: 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 - Jul 15, 1855

... At the close of the meeting President Snow nominated his two Councellors. Diminicus Carter was first Councellor. The people did not all vote. Two voted against him.

Their is a strange spirit in provo. Many do not pray & have not the spirit of God. In the Commencemet of the meeting it was very hard work to preach. The people seemed Cold & indifferent ...

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

165 years ago today - Jul 15, 1850

[Wilford Woodruff] During the Evening we were visited with A terrible Thunder storm. The lightning struck all around us & while the teams were crossing A slew the lightning burst into their midst & shocked many persons & beast & it killed 3 oxen & one man dead. It was Brother Ridge from Lane End Staffordshire England that was killed & his team. He was buried in the evening. He belonged to Elder Whipples fifty.

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

175 years ago today - Jul 15, 1840

WESTERN WORLD, published in Warsaw Illinois reports that some residents of Hancock had begun to complain of "petty depredations... such as the loss of various small instruments of agriculture." Particularly aggrieved are some residents of Tully, Missouri, who complained of the loss of a variety of items. A depot of stolen goods identified as the Tully items are found on a farm not far from Warsaw. Tully residents stake out the depot, and take four Mormons prisoner who are found in the vicinity of the stolen items. They kidnap the four, take them across the river into Missouri, and extract confessions from three of them by tying them to trees and beating them.

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

20 years ago today - Jul 14, 1995

USA TODAY reports: "A Bountiful, Utah man discovered that his wife of 3 1/2 years is a man who is now jailed on charges he ran up $40,000 in phony credit card charges. Bruce Jensen, 39, says he feels 'pretty stupid' that he didn't know Felix Urioste, 34 was a man." Jensen and Urioste (using the name Leasa) were married in Lyman, Wyoming in Dec of 1991 and later were sealed for time and eternity in the Salt Lake Temple.

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

120 years ago today - Jul 14, 1895

[Francis M. Lyman] [Oak Creek] I spoke much of Statehood and equal suffrage also of the improvements that should be made to emphasize the town. After [the] meeting I learned that my brother Jos[eph] A. and his wide did not like my talk on the suffrage ...

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

125 years ago today - Jul 14, 1890 (Monday)

The election of a board of school trustees for Salt Lake City, under the new law, resulted in the election of eight "Liberals" and four People's party men [Mormons]; but the latter were kept out of their offices for some time, while the court tried the case.

[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

125 years ago today - Jul 14, 1890 (Monday)

Frank H. Dyer resigned his office as Receiver of the confiscated Church property.

[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

135 years ago today - Jul 14, 1880

[Joseph F. Smith] President [John] Taylor presented his views in writing on the subject of the priesthood which were read to the council. Some enquiries and explanations were made, and some doubts expressed by Bro[ther]s. O[rson]. Pratt and Geo[rge]. Q. Cannon. Ithink the President's views are verycorrect and I can most freely endorse them.

[Source: Joseph F. Smith 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]

155 years ago today - Jul 14, 1860

[Brigham Young] President Joseph Young called in and enquired of the President if it was necessary to cut presidents of Quorums [off] from the church for drunkenness. '"Should not presidents and bishops be cut off also for the same vice?'" -- Salt Lake City

[Source: Brigham Young Office Journals, 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 - Jul 14, 1855

[Brigham Young] I have a few words to say concerning one item of doctrine, that I seldom think of mentioning before a public congregation; I refer to the doctrine pertaining to raising up a royal Priesthood to the name of Israel's God, for which purpose the revelation was given to Joseph, concerning the right of faithful Elders, in taking to themselves more than one wife. I frequently hear from others that this doctrine is laughed at and ridiculed; I heard yesterday of its being laughed out of doors, even jeered and sneered out of a Bishop's house. I am not personally cognizant of any one jeering at and deriding this doctrine; still, I hear that there are some few who are opposed to it. Once in a while sentiments reach my ears which sound very curious and strange, and when I hear them, I do really wish that some were possessed of better sense; I will, therefore, tell you a few things that you should know. God never introduced the Patriarchal order of marriage with a view to please man in his carnal desires, nor to punish females for anything which they had done; but He introduced it for the express purpose of raising up to His name a royal Priesthood, a peculiar people. Do we not see the benefit of it? Yes, we have lived long enough to realize its advantages. Suppose that I had had the privilege of having only one wife, I should have had only three sons, for those are all that my first wife bore, whereas, I now have buried five sons, and have thirteen living. It is obvious that I could not have been blessed with such a family, if I had been restricted to one wife, but, by the introduction of this law, I can be the instrument in preparing tabernacles for those spirits which have to come in this dispensation. Under this law, I and my brethren are preparing tabernacles for those spirits which have been preserved to enter into bodies of honor, and be taught the pure principles of life and salvation, and those tabernacles will grow up and become mighty in the kingdom of our God. ... This law was never given of the Lord for any but his faithful children; it is not for the ungodly at all; no man has a right to a wife, or wives, unless he honors his Priesthood and magnifies his calling before God. I foresaw, when Joseph first made known this doctrine, that it would be a trial, and a source of great care and anxiety to the brethren, and what of that? We are to gird up our loins and fulfil this, just as we would any other duty. (High wind and clouds of dust prevented speaking for several seconds.) It has been strenuously urged by many, that this doctrine was introduced through lust, but that is a gross misrepresentation. (A thick cloud of dust prevented speaking for about two minutes.) This revelation, which God gave to Joseph, was for the express purpose of providing a channel for the organization of tabernacles... I know quite a number of men in this Church who will not take any more women, because they do not wish to take care of them; a contracted spirit causes that feeling. I have also known some in my past life, who have said, that they did not desire to have their wives bear any children, and some even take measures to prevent it; there are a few such persons in this Church. When I see a man in this Church with those feelings, and hear him say '"I do not wish to enlarge my family, because it will bring care upon me,'" I conclude that he has more or less of the old sectarian leaven about him, and that he does not understand the glory of the celestial kingdom. ... It is not through lust that men and women are to practise this doctrine, but it is to be observed upon righteous principles; and, if men and women would pay attention to those instructions, I would promise, in the name of the Lord, that you would never find them lustful in their dispositions, and you might watch them as closely as you pleased. Plurality of wives is not designed to afflict you nor me, but is purposed for our exaltation in the kingdoms of God. If any man had asked me what was my choice when Joseph revealed that doctrine, provided that it would not diminish my glory, I would have said, '"Let me have but one wife;'" not because it is not a great comfort to me to have children, but if I have not children I know them not. Some of these my brethren know what my feelings were at the time Joseph revealed the doctrine; I was not desirous of shrinking from any duty, nor of failing in the least to do as I was commanded, but it was the first time in my life that I had desired the grave, and I could hardly get over it for a long time. And when I saw a funeral, I felt to envy the corpse its situation, and to regret that I was not in the coffin, knowing the toil and labor that my body would have to undergo; and I have had to examine myself, from that day to this, and watch my faith, and carefully meditate, lest I should be found desiring the grave more than I ought to do. You will probably wonder at this, and that such should have been my feelings upon this point, but they were even so. Now if any of you will deny the plurality of wives, and continue to do so, I promise that you will be damned; ...

[Source: Journal of Discourses. Liverpool, England, 1853-86. 3:264-268, 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]

165 years ago today - Jul 14, 1850 (Morning)

[Brigham Young] I am a phrenologist and can tell a man by looking at him - and it is the big soul a little soul ...

[Source: Thomas Bullock Minutes, 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]

165 years ago today - Jul 14, 1850 (Afternoon)

[Brigham Young] When Brother Snow sat down I felt like getting up to shout hallelujah ...

[Source: Thomas Bullock Minutes, 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 - Jul 14, 1845

Patriarchal Blessing of Richard Simcock given by William Smith on ... thou shalt live to a good old age to see the glory of God and the final exaltation of the Saints, and in peace shalt thou walk the streets of Zion, and triumph over all thine enemies, and all they of thy household shall be in subjection to thy law and great shall be their reward, for thou shalt preside over them, and ovover many in the kingdom of immortal glory, none of this blessing shall fail, but shall all be fulfilled for I seal it upon thy head with all the blessings of the spiritual kingdom, powers an[d] privileges of the holy Priesthood, by the authority of the office of Patriarch and in the name of Jesus christ Even so Amen.

[Source: Patriarchal Blessings]

170 years ago today - Jul 14, 1845

[Patriarchal Blessing of African American Joseph T. Ball given by William Smith] ... when thy name is enrolled with the house of Israel upon sacred Records deposited in the archives of the temple, as a memorial and a testimony of thy faithfulness and good works the names of thine enemies shall be forgotten forever, & their moral worth shall not be counted... the powers and blessings of the holy Priesthood are upon thine head after the order of Melchisedec even ordained a High Priest by the Spirit of Revelation from under my hands which is again confirmed by the same authority and sealed on earth & Ratified in heaven, and no power under the heaven shall take it from thee, for upon thine head has been ordained this authority & power from before the foundation of the world, and the purposes of God shall never fail, for unto Joseph[']s remnants in this last dispensation has the blessing of the Holy Priesthood been handed down and thou art of that Royal Stock, to whom the blessings and promises were made ... high and lifted up shall be thy throne, beautiful and exalted shall be thy mansion of glory, and into it shall be gathered all nations, who are of the labors of thy ministry, & of the fruits of thine own loins, and as a king and a mighty prince shalt thou reign and rule over many even ten kingdoms ... thou shalt be called to a mighty Prophet a minister of peace & righteousness, for by Revelation shalt thou speak and by the power of the Holy Ghost thou shalt make known the great mysteries of the kingdom, and the Salvation of Israel[']s God to a dying world & many shall be gathered and saved in the kingdom by thy labors with thee for I seal all this blessing upon thy head with all the blessings of the Spiritual kingdom and a Salvation that is after the power of an endless life in the name of Jesus Christ Amen

[Source: Patriarchal Blessings]