60 years ago today - Feb 29, 1956

[David O. McKay] at presidency meeting: A discussion came up regarding a book that is being prepared for publication by Clare Wilcox telling of a dialogue between Joseph Smith and Willard Richards regarding the taking of other wives and urging that the matter be concealed. President Richards said that the author is a relative of his and he thought we should resist the publication of such material. In this connection President McKay gave the following: Statement by President McKay on polygamy: President McKay stated that his understanding of the revelation given to the Prophet Joseph Smith, contained in the 132nd Section of the Doctrine and Covenants is as follows: That the revelation was regarding the eternity of the marriage covenant; it was not on polygamy. And the Lord revealed to the Prophet that a man who conforms to that revelation, that is, who enters into the eternity of the marriage covenant, receives every blessing pertaining to the salvation and exaltation of man. =No blessing is withheld. The part of the revelation pertaing to the marriage covenant pertains only to one man and one wife; and then, after the Prophet received it, he asked the Lord what about Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, who had more wives than one. And then follows the answer of the Lord that, if a man marry another wife and she is given to him as this wife is given to him, he does not sin, but he does not get a higher glory. There are one or two verses which will lead one to think that this refers to the plurality of marriage. Plural marriage as a practice is not a principle. We have not abrogated the principle of the marriage covenant and we never will, and the practice of plural marriage is contrary to the law of the Church and the law of the land. President Richards said he agreed with this understanding one hundred per cent. President McKay said that some of our people taught it as a principle, which was not correct.

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

180 years ago today - Feb 29, 1836

A man called to see the House of the Lord in company with another gentleman. On entering the door they were politely invited by the gent[l]eman who has charge of the House to take off their hats. One of them complyed with the request unhesitatingly while the other observed that he would not take of[f] his hat, nor bow to Jo[e] Smith, but that he had made Jo[e] bow to him at a certain time. He was immediately informed by Eld[e]r Morey, the keeper of the House, that his first buisness was to leave for when a man imposed upon me [Joseph Smith] he was imposed upon himself [Elder Morey]. The man manifested much anger but left the house.

[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1835-36, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]

280 years ago today - Feb 29, 1736

Anna Lee, founder of the Shaker movement in America, was born in Manchester, England.

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

110 years ago today - Feb 28, 1906; Wednesday

Patriarchs, members of High Council, Bishops & presidents of quorums met to discuss the question of the introduction of waltz- ing in our social parties. The Prescy. of the stake, the Patriarchs, members of High Council, Bps. & others spoke. By unanimous vote it was decided that the present condition under which waltzing is not permitted in our social parties continue in force.

[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 - Feb 28, 1846

... at sundown to the [Nauvoo] Temple, where we spent the evening in holy conversation, administering the Sacrament, and speaking in Tongues, enjoyed the fruits of the Gospel.

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

170 years ago today - Feb 28, 1846

Communication to the Governor of Iowa ... to shield and protect the Mormons in their constitutional rights is pointed out the dilemma that faced the L.D.S. Church and its membership in Illinois in 1846: "To stay, is death by 'fire and sword,' to go into banishment unprepared, is death by starvation."

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

170 years ago today - Feb 28, 1846

Brigham Young notes that the Camp of Israel formed west of Nauvoo across the Mississippi River "consisted of nearly four hundred wagons all very heavily loaded" and "several thousand persons [who] left their homes in midwinter and exposed themselves without shelter, except that afforded by scanty supply of tents and wagon covers, to a cold which effectually made an ice bridge over the Mississippi river . . ." Young records: "Colonel Hosea Stout with about one hundred men acted as a police for the encampment; they were generally armed with rifles."

185 years ago today - Feb 28, 1831

"It is well known that Jo Smith never pretended to have any communion with angels, until a long period after the pretended finding of his book, and that the juggling of himself or father, went no further than the pretended faculty of seeing wonders in a "peep stone," and the occasional interview with the spirit, supposed to have the custody of hidden treasures."

"Walters assembled his nightly band of money diggers in the town of Manchester, at a point designated in his magical book, and drawing a circle around laborers, with the point of an old rusty sword, and using sundry other incantations, for the purpose of propiating [sic] the spirit, absolutely sacrificed a fowl, ("Rooster,") in the presence of his awe- stricken companions, to the foul spirit, whom ignorance had created, the guardian of hidden wealth."

[Source: Abner Cole, "Gold Bible, No. 5," Reflector, (Palmyra, NY), 28 February 1831, as quoted in A Topical Guide of Treasure-Seeking Rituals From the American Northeast during the 18th and 19th Centuries, Compiled by Joseph T. Antley (2010)]

35 years ago today - Feb 27, 1981

The First Presidency authorizes stake presidents to ordain patriarchs. Previously, the Twelve maintained that as an exclusive right, even denying it to the church's presiding patriarch.

[Source: The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]

120 years ago today - Feb 27, 1896

Court dismisses the long-standing indictment against John M. Higbee. Other participants say privately that he was the most blood-thirsty man at Mountain Meadows Massacre.

[Source: The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]

1816, 200 years ago this year.

Brigham Young owned a copy of an 1821 edition of Joshua Bradley's 'Some of the Beauties of Free-Masonry' (first published 1816). It discusses the seven days of creation in the context of the Masonic temple ritual, says that "The Bee-Hive is an emblem of industry" and mentions the "All Seeing Eye."

[Source: Grunder, Rick, Mormon Parallels: A Bibliographic Source]

50 years ago today - Feb 26, 1966

A temple-square talk by Apostle Ezra Taft Benson is printed in the DESERET NEWS. However references to the John Birch Society are deleted without Apostle Benson's permission. In the talk he said that he had read the Birch Society's Blue Book, Robert Welch's The Politician, and recommended that the audience subscribe to the Birch Society's official magazine American Opinion. His talk even included the mailing address."

[Source: "Stand Up For Freedom: Partial Text Of Talk Given to S.L. Group By Elder Benson," Deseret News "Church News," 26 Feb. 1966,10-12; Duane Price to D. Michael Quinn, 9 Aug. 1992, summarizing his meeting with Benson in April 1966. Price was a supporter of Benson's position on the Birch Society. Anderson, "Church and Birch In Utah," 35n29, alluded to the censorship of the talk in the Church News. From D. Michael Quinn, Ezra Taft Benson and Mormon Political Conflicts, Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought 26:2 (Summer 1992), also in Quinn, The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power Salt Lake City (Signature Books, 1994), Chapter 3.]

75 years ago today - Feb 26, 1941

[J. Reuben Clark] Bp Wirthlin'Telephoned about stopping George Martin going into Temple'a "New Polyg" I told him I would get in touch with David O. and let him know.

Telephoned Bro Chipman telling him about it. He said he would take care of it.'I asked him to look the Presid. Bishopric for further information and so informed the Presid. Bishopric'Bro. Wirthlin.

[Source: The Diaries of J. Reuben Clark, 1933-1961, Abridged, Digital Edition, Salt Lake City, Utah 2015]

85 years ago today - Feb 26, 1931

[Heber J. Grant] We have before us your letter of February 18, in which you say that in your Priesthood class one Brother claims that Adam 'had been through the experience of mortality on another sphere before he came here; that he was a celestialized being when placed in the Garden of Eden.' What this brother means by 'celestialized being' is not clear. We are informed that we all lived in the presence of God in the spirit world before we came here. In one sense we might say that this was a celestialized existence. If what is meant is that Adam had passed on to celestial glory through a resurrection before he came here, and that afterwards he was appointed to this earth to die again, the second time becoming mortal, then it is not scriptural or according to the truth. ... Adam could have remained in the Garden of Eden indefinitely if he had not transgressed the law which brought to pass mortality. Since Adam had not passed through the resurrection his spirit and body were not inseparably connected, hence it was possible for him to become mortal by partaking of the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. By so doing he received the seeds of death and brought to pass mortality in himself and caused all of his posterity to partake of like conditions and be subject to death. ...

[Source: Heber J. Grant, Letter to Joseph H. Eldredge, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]

115 years ago today - Feb 26, 1901

We held a special meeting of the First Presidentcy and Apostles ... This meeting was called to reconsider the Evans Bill relating to unlawful cohabitation [making it unlawful for anyone to bring a charge of adultery against a married man except the legal wife, she being the aggrieved party -- lessening the ability of church enemies to make charges of polygamy againt Mormons]. We all spoke on this subject. Pres[iden]t. Snow said he had not got the will of the Lord and wanted us to express ourselves. We all spoke in favor of the bill but Reed Smoot and he said it was simply a question of policy with him'he would vote with his brethren. Some very warm words were exchanged between Pres[iden]ts. Cannon and Smith. It was moved by Pres[iden]t. Jos[eph]. F. Smith and 2nd by F[rancis]. M. Lyman to sustain the Evans Bill. Carried unanimously.

[Source: Abraham Owen Woodruff 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 - Feb 26, 1896

Bro[ther] [B. H.] R[oberts] seems to have taken his farewell of his brethern among whom he has labored so faithfully for lo these many years [over the publication of his book, which included an attempt to harmonize evolution with church teachings].

[Source: Seymour B. Young, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]

120 years ago today - Wednesday, Feb 26, 1896

[John Henry Smith] F[rancis]. M. Lyman and I were weighed today and just weighed 248 pounds each. I had a tumor cut out of my back by Dr. Jos. F. Richards today.

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

125 years ago today - Feb 26, 1891

[Brigham Young Jr.] American mail this morning, first thing noticed in Des[eret] E[vening]. N[ews]. was raid after more property belonging to church & individuals The Temples in S[alt]. L[ake]. C[ity]. Manti & St. George [Utah] are mentioned by US Dis[trict]. Att[orne]y. I was so disturbed when reading of their mean[n]ess that I could scarcely contain my feelings. I would rather fight if it is the Lords will than submit longer to these curses who disgrace the Gov[ernor]. they represent. If it were in my power I would stand by those Temples and kill the first hound from the President of U.S.A. down to the dastardly U.S. Marshals from Franks down to Pratt before they should desecrate those sacred buildings. These were my thoughts until I was worked up to a pitch seldom reached by one of my temper. Suddenly I remembered the Lord was managing this business, and I prayed unto Him in my heart, O Lord give the Government and people of the United States something to chew besides the 562 L[atter]. D[ay]. S[aints].

[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]

165 years ago today - Feb 26, 1851

President Young while speaking of the resurrection said that we should receive the same bodies that we lay down, if our dust was blown to the four winds of heaven.

[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]

20 years ago today - Feb 25, 1996

The proportion of Church members living outside United States surpasses 50%.

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

55 years ago today - Feb 25, 1961

During the baseball-baptism era a speech by First Presidency Counselor Henry D. Moyle is published in the CHURCH NEWS: "We need these young men [baptized teenagers]. How are we going to get this [labor] missionary building program carried out without them? The answer is, we could not. . . . You elders need have no concern, no matter from what source the criticism comes, as to whether your baptisms are too fast. . . . If you think that President McKay does not know what is going on and that Brother Moyle and Brother Woodbury, and Brother Brockbank are "pulling a fast one," so to speak, why you are mistaken about that. . . . I have noted a little apologetic tone in some of your voices about baptizing too many young people. Well don't put on the brakes."

120 years ago today - Feb 25, 1896

sisters Zina D. H. Young and Jane S. Richards, on behalf of the Relief Society, asked the following questions, and received the accompanying answers: ... Bishops and others have no right to interfere in this matter, nor to take possession or control of the wheat which belongs to the Relief Societies. The counsel and advice which Bishops may give are another thing. The wheat is entirely under the control of the Society to which it belongs.

[Source: Journal History, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]

135 years ago today - Feb 25, 1881

DESERET NEWS reports that first counselor Joseph F. Smith and Apostle Wilford Woodruff set apart seven recent graduates of Dr. Romania B. Pratt's course in midwifery. Oliver B. Huntington records in his journal: "I went to Provo to a quarterly Stake Conference. Heard Joseph F. Smith describe the manner of translating the Book of Mormon by Joseph Smith the Prophet and Seer, which was as follows as near as I can recollect the substance of his description. Joseph did not render the writing on the gold plates into the English language in his own style of language as many people believe. But every word and every letter was given him by the gift and power of God. So it is the work of God and not of Joseph Smith, and it was done in this way - The Lord caused each word spelled as it is in the book to appear on the stones in short sentences or words, and when Joseph had uttered the sentence or word before him and the scribe had written it properly, that sentence would disappear and another appear. And if there was a word wrongly written or even a letter incorrect the writing on the stone would remain there."

135 years ago today - Feb 25, 1881

[Wilford Woodruff] 25 We drove to St George. ... We drove to the Temple whare I took up my abode. I rejoiced to once more take up my abiding Place in the Temple of our God. We went to the Altar and had our Prayers. ... We slept in the upper part of the Temple. 3

[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 - Feb 25, 1856

President Young exhibited the Seers stone with which The Prophet Joseph discovered the plates of the Book of Mormon, to the Regents this evening

It is said to be a silecious granite color almost black with light colored stripes some what resembling petrified poplar or cotton wood bark[.] It was about the size but not the shape of a hens egg

[Source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

170 years ago today - Feb 25, 1846

At this meeting Brigham Young spoke ... he gave them a severe reprimand and declared that himself nor any other man had any right or exclusive privilege to pass or re-pass the guard and that he would know no man who had not the counter sign.

[Source: On the Mormon Frontier, the Diaries of Hosea Stout. Juanita Brooks, ed. Salt Lake City: University of Utah Press, 1964. 1:127, 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 - Feb 25, 1846

He [Brigham Young] then spoke against thieving, cutting strings from wagon covers, and said the brethren had gone contrary to council in cutting rail timber, etc. on the camp ground, and they must stop all such practices; that they had not made him the leader of the Camp as yet, but if they should do it, when they got out of the settlements where his orders could be executed, they would have justice done them, and, said he, "I should be perfectly willing to see thieves have their throats cut. Some of you may say, if that is your feelings Brigham, we'll lay you aside some time. Well, do it if you can; I would rather die by the hands of the meanest of all men, false brethren, than to live among thieves."

[Source: Manuscript History of Brigham Young, p.49, in Elden J. Watson, ed. Brigham Young Addresses, 1801-1877: A Chronological Compilation of Known Addresses of the Prophet Brigham Young, 6 vols. (Salt Lake City: Privately published, 1971)]

45 years ago today - Feb 24, 1971

A meeting of 150 students on BYU's campus condemns the U.S. participation in the Vietnam War. Among them is Apostle Spencer W. Kimball's grandson, a registered conscientious objector and returned missionary. He and several members of the group soon publish a pamphlet, 'To the Men of BYU,' which encourages them to consider conscientious objection against this war. Surveys by BYU sociologists find that about 10 percent of BYU students oppose the Vietnam War.

[Source: The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]

160 years ago today - Feb 24, 1856

Br. Brigham arose and spoke the plainest that I ever heard him ... I now say to all you [lawyers] that stir up strife and contention thieving and wickedness and don't repent, the curse of the Almighty shall rest upon you. I curse you in the name of Jesus Christ. Your children shall die, your substance shall wither and perish! ... Here is Judge Snow, to my right hand, a stink to this community, he goes around picking old sores, stirring up lawsuits to get business and for a mess of sugar and tea he can be bribed, he will wallow in his filth all the week and on Sunday come and stick himself in the stand by the side of me! I consider it a disgrace to me, to sit by him. I suppose he will want to speak now, but if he gets into this pulpit I will kick him out, It shan't be disgraced with him.

We have got the names of the loafers that attend court and we are going to send them on a mission and hope they won't be back in less than 5 years. We will send some good men with them, they may preach the gospel, or apostatize and go to hell. About a 150 names were called. -- SLC Tabernacle [Note: Zerubabel Snow asked the Quorum of Twelve for forgiveness. Heber C. Kimball warns, "When a man is appointed to take a mission, unless he has a just and honorable reason for not going, if he does not go he will be severed from the Church"]

[Source: John Pulsipher Journal, 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 - Feb 24, 1846

En route from New York to California aboard the ship Brooklyn, Mormon emigrant Sarah Burr gives birth to a baby boy, whom she names John Atlantic Burr. He is the first of two children to be born on board the ship. Later, a baby girl is born to Phebe and John Robbins and is named Georgiana Pacific Robbins.

170 years ago today - Feb 24, 1846

An early thaw ends and the Mississippi river freezes over at Nauvoo. This considerably aids the Mormons in their exodus out of the city that has been going on for over two weeks. Wagons can now be driven across the ice instead of having to be carried across on ferry boats. At 7 pm, Willard Richards noted the temperature was 12 degrees above zero.

35 years ago today - Feb 23, 1981

Provo's Jiffy Lube auto service center offers a complete lube, a chance to meet Elder Paul H. Dunn, a member of the Presidency of the General Quorum of Seventy, and a free autographed book to the first 50 customers-all for just $14.95.

90 years ago today - Feb 23, 1926

[Heber J. Grant] ... Told him of the temptations that came to me to resign because I had never seen the Savior and that I was unfit to be an apostle etc. I related to him the manifestation that I had in Arizona ...

[Source: The Diaries of Heber J. Grant, 1880-1945, Abridged, Digital Edition Salt Lake City, Utah, 2015]

120 years ago today - Feb 23, 1896

[Heber J. Grant] This morning about nine thirty he [i.e., his seven-year-old son, Heber] had another sinking spell and at the suggestion of Bishop Nelson A. Empey, who was present I ordained my little boy an Elder in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and I blessed him with all the earnestness of my soul, and dedicated him to the Lord to live or die which ever was His will, and covenanted with the Lord if he would spare my only son, and give him life and strength that I would dedicate his time to the service of the Lord and do all in my power to teach him the ways of truth and righteousness. I had wonderfully good liberty in blessing my son. He revived again. [His son died four days later.]

[Source: The Diaries of Heber J. Grant, 1880-1945, Abridged, Digital Edition Salt Lake City, Utah, 2015]

120 years ago today - Feb 23, 1896

[Brigham Young Jr.] I had a talk with Pres[iden]t Hammond Asked him did he endorse the doctrine when Pres[iden]t Woodruff called upon Patriarch John Smith to step down and out or quit smoking or use of tobacco. he said I do with all my heart. Then will you step down, he said yes. He had letter read Presidency sent him. I read it again when Pres[ident] H. proposed that people try him another 6 mo[nths]. ... People voted with 3 exceptions to try him another 6 mo[nths]. I felt obliged to let the matter rest until next Conference.

[Source: Diary of Apostle Brigham Young Jr., http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

135 years ago today - Feb 23, 1881

[Wilford Woodruff] I spent the night at the House of Widow Roundy. I laid hands upon her and sealed a Blessing upon her. The Angel of God Recorded it But I have not a Record of it in my Journal.

[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 - Feb 23, 1861

The President emphatically and distinctly said those who enter the glory of the Telestial World will have to dwell singly and separately apart; they will not marry there, they will be happy. It will be the same with the Terrestrial Glory they will not marry although their glory will be infinitely greater. None but the Gods will be allowed to multiply and increase. In Celestial glory there will be many who will be single also. -- Salt Lake City

[Source: Brigham Young Office Journals, 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 - Feb 23, 1856

Brigham Young exhibits brown seer stone obtained from Oliver Cowdery's widow. He explains that Smith used this stone to find gold plates of Book of Mormon.

[Source: The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]

165 years ago today - Feb 23, 1851

Pres Young who prophesied that the time is near when all the emigration of the Saints from Europe and the East will come by way of the [-] and South California instead of by the grave yards on the Mississippi, Missouri and Platte Rivers '- and that we should raise our cotton and sugar in the south, instead of from the States '- and that as most of the persons who were pearl fishers, were our own brethren, that we should command the pearl fisheries in our own hands. And the U.S. could not help themselves. He also said that many who were going south with Amasa Lyman and Charles C. Rich when they had wallowed in the mire long enough, that they would be glad to wash themselves and return here again. -- Salt Lake City

[Source: Historians Office Journal, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]

185 years ago today - Feb 23, 1831

D&C 42:78-93 (Kirtland): Methods for dealing with transgressors; murderers, thieves, and liars to civil authorities; adulterers to be tried before the church, bishop should be present, two witnesses required; other offenders rebuked in secret if offense was private.

[Source: Kenney, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://web.archive.org/web/20120805163534/saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml]

50 years ago today - Feb 22, 1966

During a visit at church headquarters the last week of February, Senator Moss found "a number of the Brethren boiling pretty good" about Benson's recent talk. These general authorities "decided that Brother Benson's Assembly Hall speech should not be printed in the Church News. This was the decision until it was found that President McKay had already approved its printing and his office had directed the Deseret News to print it."

[Source: Reported by U.S. senator Frank E. Moss to U.S. representative Ken W. Dyal, 2 Mar. 1966, folder 5, box 184, Moss Papers. Moss wrote that this assessment was based on conversations a week earlier with "the Brethren." However, his Daily Activity Log refers to meeting with only one current general authority—Hugh B. Brown on 22 February (box 713, Moss Papers). From D. Michael Quinn, Ezra Taft Benson and Mormon Political Conflicts, Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought 26:2 (Summer 1992), also in Quinn, The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power Salt Lake City (Signature Books, 1994), Chapter 3.]

105 years ago today - Feb 22, 1911

Trial of John W. Taylor before the Quorum of Apostles for some of his post-manifesto plural marriage activities. In his defense Taylor has read aloud and entered into the minutes the Sept. 27, 1886 revelation given to his father, President John Taylor. The revelation is discussed. Apostle Joseph Fielding Smith states that a he, himself, as placed the original of the revelation in the church archives. However, Heber J. Grant, who is present and participated during the trial, later, as president of the church, publicly denies the existence of this revelation claiming there is no knowledge or record of it in the church. During the trial Taylor asks that President Joseph F. Smith be called in on his behalf but the council refuses to contact President Smith. The Apostles formally excommunicate Taylor on Mar 28.

155 years ago today - Feb 22, 1861

Apostle Orson Pratt submits to the MATHEMATICAL MONTHLY (Cambridge, Massachusetts) a series of problems concerning mathematical laws relating to the origin of the solar system. He later recalls: "I prepared a series of problems relating to this subject, and forwarded the same to the editor of the Mathematical Monthly, . . . But in the consequence of the war then pending, the paper ceased its publication, and I heard nothing further from the manuscript. But as it was hastily and somewhat imperfectly prepared, it is perhaps better that it remained unpublished," In a letter to the editor of the Mathematical Monthly accompanying the articles, Pratt notes that his work was done without the aid of "any mathematical works." Pratt publishes CUBIC AND BIQUARATIC EQUATIONS and writes texts on differential calculus and determinants which he doesn't publish.

155 years ago today - Feb 22, 1861

The President [Brigham Young]] saw the foundation of the [Salt Lake] Temple was not laid even and he thought of taking some up and level it. The President observed to him that when he saw it he felt it was wrong. The B[isho]p said he wished the Pres[ident] had forcible told him so. The President said he did mention it, but men frequently have to much confidence in themselves. He further remarked he did not care about the expense of work but he wanted it laid out well and the work done properly. Pres. said he intended to have all the rocks taken up and he would get him T.O. Angel & Jesse Fox and overlook the laying of the rock, that it might be done properly. The President saw in a few hundred years some of the ancients will be here, and contrast our buildings with those that they have build. If we could see the buildings they put up before the flood we should see we had grown weaker and not wiser. -- Salt Lake City

[Source: Brigham Young Office Journals, 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 - Feb 22, 1846

At a meeting in the recently-completed Nauvoo Temple "the room was crowded and a great weight caused the new truss floor to settle nearly to its proper position. While settling, an inch-board or some light timber underneath was caught and cracked, the sound of which created great alarm in the congregation and some jumped out of the windows, smashing the glass and all before them. Philo Farnsworth smashed the northeast window while others ran out of the doors and many or those who remained jumped up and down with all their might crying Oh! Oh!! Oh!!! As though they could not settle the floor fast enough, but at the same time so agitated that they knew now what they did. . . .One man who jumped out of the window broke his arm and mashed his face, another broke his leg." Wilford Woodruff records: "I dreamed last night that there was a great Storm that killed thousands of Birds that were floating upon the water. I saw many that were not quite dead. I waided in 2 or three feet of water & picked out many of them & put them under a goose that was sitting & they were warmed brought to life & run about lively & well."

180 years ago today - Feb 22, 1836

The lower room of the [Kirtland] temple is ready for painting, and Brigham Young will superintend it. The sisters meet to begin making for the temple a white canvas curtain called the veil.

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

185 years ago today - Feb 22, 1831

Writing from Kirtland (OH), Joseph Smith instructs Martin Harris to "come as soon as you can ... bring or cause to <be> brought all the books [of Mormon] ... inform the Elders which are there that all of them who can be spared will come here without delay if possable this by commandment of the Lord ... send to Colesville and have either Hiram or Newel to come [-] immediately or both if they can be spared. You will not sell the books [of Mormon] for less than 10 Shillings".

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

20 years ago today - Feb 21, 1996

The Deseret News (with a follow-up on 28 Feb.) reports that LDS president Gordon B. Hinckley meets with Honolulu's Catholic bishop Francis X. DiLorenzo to coordinate "as part of a grass-roots coalition opposed to same-sex marriage" legalization.

[Source: The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]

25 years ago today - Feb 21, 1991

SALT LAKE TRIBUNE article "Dunn Story Proves Costly for Veteran Journalist" tells of how Lynn Packer lost his teaching job at BYU after breaking the story about Paul H. Dunn's false baseball and war stories.

95 years ago today - Feb 21, 1921

[James E. Talmage] ... By further action taken on unanimous vote of the High Council the branch hitherto known as the West Tintic branch of the Tintic Stake of Zion was disorganized. Thus all semblance of Church supervision in the affairs of that unfortunate little group of people has been taken away. When, more than a year ago, reports reached the First Presidency, to the effect that the people in West Tintic had undertaken to establish the 'United Order', they to have all things in common and to abolish all private ownership, I was appointed to investigate the matter. As a result of my first visit to the Tintic Stake with this as one of my appointed duties, I reported the facts as I found them, which were briefly these: That Moses Gudmundson, who was the leader and dominating figure in the movement, denied all intention of going ahead of the Church, specifically in the matter of attempting to start a colony according to the United Order plan; that I did not believe his protestations, but on the other hand was convinced that the people of West Tintic, then organized into an independent branch in the Tintic Stake, were being led by an evil influence. Many other investigations have followed; and we have found to our sorrow that what we saw as the inevitable development of evil unless the people placed themselves in strict harmony with the order and government of the Church, had become a reality, namely, erotic ideas and practises concerning the marital state and the sexual relation. The best I can say of the people is that they have become fanatical through the power of evil. They have made sacrifice their hobby. The eating of meat, the taking of animal life even to provide food, and many other practises common with other people have been forbidden there; while long fasts and particularly the sacrificing of comforts and wholesome desires have been held up as ideals. Now they have reached the abominable status of men sacrificing their wives to other men; and by this means they have put themselves under the laws of Church discipline and have made themselves subject to the punishment provided for by the law of the land. The present state is one of abominable immorality. Some of the women, notably the wife of Moses Gudmundson, and the wife of Gerald Lowry, withdrew promptly from the colony rather than countenance in any degree these ungodly practices. I believe that the judgment of the High Council in these cases is just; and that others than those already tried are involved.

[Source: James E. Talmage, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]

105 years ago today - Feb 21, 1911

[George F. Richards] The extent to which evolution and higher criticism is gaining ground among our school teachers is something alarming. The effects of such teachings in the B[righam]. Y[oung]. U[niversity]. are indeed alarming. These style themselves the progressive element. There are those making up the conservative element and then the orthodox Mormons.

[Source: George F. Richards, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]

110 years ago today - Feb 21, 1906

Joseph W. Summerhays performs ceremony marrying eighteen-year-old Athelia Voila Call to thirty-two-year-old William Galley Sears (whose first wife is unable to conceive) as his second living wife. When questioned by the Quorum of Twelve Summerhays insists that he had permission from President Joseph F. Smith. Smith denies this to Reed Smoot, Apostle and U.S. Senator. Summerhays is released from all church positions but is neither disfellowshipped nor excommunicated. In Washington D.C. Senator Albert J. Hopkins of Illinois tells LDS Apostle John Henry Smith that "we [the church] should do something with our recalcitrant Elders." This refers to Apostles John W. Taylor and Matthias F. Cowley of whom it is known that they have performed post-manifesto plural marriages. Taylor and Cowley are dropped from the Quorum of Twelve two weeks later.

115 years ago today - Feb 21, 1901 (Thursday)

The Utah legislature passed an anti-vaccination bill over the governor's veto.

[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

115 years ago today - Feb. 21st, 1901

[Brigham Young Jr.] Petition had some circulation asking my wife to resign Presidency of M.I.A. I advised her to resign, which she did.

[Source: Diary of Apostle Brigham Young Jr., http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

175 years ago today - about Feb 21, 1841

Joseph Taylor remembers that Joseph Smith prophesied to his worried mother that her son John would safely return from jail within a week after having been imprisoned in Missouri for six months; he returned six days later.

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

180 years ago today - 1836: 21 February

[Patriarchal Blessing] Jonathan Crosby Jr. (Given by Joseph Smith, Sen.)

"...Thou shalt ... have power over the winds and waves. Be wafted from place to place, by the power of God. Be caught up to the third heavens, and behold unspeakable things, whether in the body or out. Thou shalt see thy Redeemer in the flesh, and know that he lives. Angels shall minister unto thee, and protect thee from thine enemies, so that none shall be able to take thy life. And when thy mission is full here, thou shalt visit other worlds, and remain a Priest in eternity.

Thou shalt stand upon the earth till the Redeemer comes, See the end of this generation, and when the heavens rend, thou shalt rise and meet thy God in the air. And thy thousands shall be with thee. Thy family also, and thy posterity also. ... And I seal thee up unto eternal life...

[Source: From a transcript; original in the Caroline Barnes Crosby Journal and Autobiography, 1807-82; Fd. 1, pg. 16, Utah State Historical Society Archives, in Selected LDS Patriarchal Blessings, New Mormon Studies CD ROM, Signature Book, 2009, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

180 years ago today - 1836: 21 February

[Patriarchal Blessing] Caroline Crosby. (Given by Joseph Smith, Sen.)

"... thou also shalt see thy Redeemer come in the clouds of heaven ... Angels shall minister unto thee. And thy husband shall receive strength from thy prayers when he is absent from thee. And you shall know each others state by the Spirit when in far distant lands, and be comforted.

Thou shalt receive an inheritance in Zion, for thee and thy children. See the glory of God fill the house. Even the glory of the kingdom of heaven. And if thou desirest thou shalt bid the grave adieu, and never sleep in the dust, but rise to meet thy Redeemer at His coming

Note: After the blessings, she wrote: "The Patriarch conversed with us sometime, told us we had come together right. And when we told him our ages, and places of birth, he observed--that he thought we were both born under one planet. But merely by way of merriment. Mother Smith was in the room. She also added her blessing, or confirmed what we had already received."

[Source: From a transcript; original in the Caroline Barnes Crosby Journal and Autobiography, 1807-82; fd 1, pg. 16, Utah State Historical Society Archives, in Selected LDS Patriarchal Blessings, New Mormon Studies CD ROM, Signature Book, 2009, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

55 years ago today - Feb 20, 1961

President Clark ... is now a Director and Vice-Chairman of the Board of the following Church-controlled or interested corporations:

Beneficial Life

Radio service Corporation of Utah (Station KSL)

Utah Hotel Company

Utah-Idaho Sugar Company

Z.C.M.I.

Director and Vice-President of Zions Securities Corp.

Director-Emeritus-Equitable Life Assurance Society

Member of Board of Trustees: Herbert Hoover Foundation Theodore Roosevelt

Foundation

Director'American Peace Society.

[Source: The Diaries of J. Reuben Clark, 1933-1961, Abridged, Digital Edition, Salt Lake City, Utah 2015]

55 years ago today - Feb 20, 1961

A staff member of the Church Historian's office writes to Presiding Patriarch Eldred G. Smith that patriarchal blessings had been given through ten of the twelve tribes of Israel, the two not mentioned being the tribes of Issachar and Asher. And fifteen other lineages had been named in blessings, including that of Cain.

95 years ago today - Feb 20, 1921

[James E. Talmage] Complaints of wicked and dangerous teachings and practises had been made against Moses S. Gudmundson, J. Elvan Houtz and others; and the Council of the Presidency and Twelve had directed that President Clawson and I be present at the trial. ... The testimony adduced proved conclusively that these men and other residents of the West Tintic branch had been so far misled as to disregard the sanctity of the marriage obligation, as administered in the Temples, and had adopted a system of 'wifesacrifice', whereby men were required to give up their wives to other men, and this under a diabolical misinterpretation of Scripture as to the law of sacrifice requiring one to give up all he has, even wife and children.

[Source: James E. Talmage, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]

105 years ago today - Feb 20, 1911

The BYU Board of Trustees meets. The board, presided over by LDS church president Joseph F. Smith, "agreed that the Presidency of the Faculty should Consider the Cases of the teacher[s] in the university Henry and Jos. Peterson and R. V. Chamberlain." The three professors, who refused to change their teaching on evolution, were either fired or resigned under pressure.

110 years ago today - Feb 20, 1906

[John Henry Smith to George Alber Smith] Since writing a few lines to you Bro[ther]. [Reed] Smoot has introduced me to some of my old friends and I have had some very pleasant conversations. They all seem to feel that we must do something to convince the public and also the Senators that we are not coniving in these later cases [of plural marriages]. One man [i.e., Theodore Roosevelt] told me that [John W.] Taylor [Matthias F.] Cowley and [Joseph M.] Tanner must be disciplined by the Church, not cast out but drooped from their positions, and that it must be done at a conference.

[Source: John Henry Smith, Letter to George Albert Smith, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]

110 years ago today - Tuesday, Feb 20, 1906

[Apostle John Henry Smith] I had breakfast with Vice President [Charles W.] Fairbanks. ... Our meal consisted of Baked apples & cream, corn cake and butter, Hominy & Cream, Fried Eggs and French fried Potatoes and Coffee.

[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]

120 years ago today - Feb 20, 1896

Elders Reed Smoot and B[enjamin]. Cluff, Jr., accompanied by brother Willard Young and sister Susa Young Gates, called on the First Presidency, who were all at the office, and expressed satisfaction at the proposition for the B[righam]. Y[oung]. Academy to pass into the hands of the Church. Brother Young and sister Gates thought that the first thing to do was to obtain legal advice in reference to the transfer, and that this should be done before consulting the heirs of the estate of Pres[iden]t. [Brigham] Young. Brothers Cluff and Smoot were advised to consult attorneys in reference to making the change. It was agreed that there would be no necessity to change the name of the Institution, and the general opinion was that by the Church assuming control of the Academy and building up a strong Normal Department, the intention of the late Pres[iden]t. Young in reference to the Academy would be carried out with greater efficiency than ever.

[Source: Journal History, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]

155 years ago today - Feb 20, 1861

Mail arrives via Pony Express containing news of the southern states seceding from the union. At Brigham Young's office a letter is read "to many of the brethren who had assembled themselves at the Office. A remark of Abraham Lincolns that was read, in which he likened the Union to a Free love arrangement elicited a hearty laugh from the President and brethren." The next day "Pres. [Young] again remarked it was a pretty cute remark of Abraham Lincoln comparing the Union to a Free love arrangement."

165 years ago today - Feb 20, 1851

[Wilford Woodruff] 20th I spent the day in Council. Had a good time. Was Anointed & Blessed under the Hands of President Young.

[Endowment ceremony is again administered on regular basis since coming west, in such places as Brigham Young's office and upper room of Council House.]

[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies; The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn]

175 years ago today - Feb 20, 1841

The court-martial of the Nauvoo Legion, by a unanimous vote, adopts a resolution: "That no person whatever, residing within the limits of the City of Nauvoo, between the ages of 18 and 45 years, excepting such as are exempted by the laws of the United States, shall be exempt from military duty, unless exempted by a special act of this court; and the fines for neglecting or refusing to appear on the days of general parade were fixed at the following rates: for generals, $25; colonels, $20; captains, $15; lieutenants, $10; and musicians and privates, $5; and for company parade at the following rates-for commissioned officers, $5; noncommissioned officers, $3; musicians and privates, $2. The 1st and 6th of Apr, and the 3rd of Jul, were fixed upon as days for general parade for this year."

180 years ago today - Feb 20, 1836

Patriarchal Blessing of Julian Moses given by Joseph Smith, Sr. ... thou shalt not fall a prey to that monster that fell from his high standing, before the most high: ... thou shalt have visions and shalt gaze upon the heavens, and the glories thereof, and thou shalt arise up to meet Christ in the air, while the earth shall reel to and fro and be cleansed and prepared for the saints ...

[Source: Patriarchal Blessing Book 1:53-54, 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]

25 years ago today - Feb 19, 1991

LDS publisher Bookcraft sends a memo to dealers who sell their books: "In view of the recent stories about Elder Paul H. Dunn and the accuracy of his books we thought it might be helpful if we provided you with some facts. We are enclosing with this letter a copy of Elder Dunn's official statement which was released after the initial story was printed. We believe this will help clarify the situation. We want to also remind you that just because something is printed in the newspaper or seen on television does not make it necessarily true. We believe that things Elder Dunn said to the Arizona Republic reporter were taken out of context and used in a way to change his original meanings. We know also that the original story and subsequent coverage have been deliberately slanted to hurt Elder Dunn and the Church. We want to call attention to the fact that after all the 'investigation,' these reports are dealing with stories that are a minuscule part of elder Dunn's writings. Bookcraft has been and is still proud to be associated with this fine man and outstanding teacher. We intend to continue publishing his books, and there is absolutely no question of any of his books being recalled."

35 years ago today - Feb 19, 1981

Apostle Bruce R. McConkie writes to BYU professor Eugene England: "Yes, President [Brigham Young] did teach that Adam was the father of our spirits, and all the related things that the cultists ascribe to him. This, however, is not true [doctrine]. He expressed views that are out of harmony with the gospel." McConkie admonishes England: "It is my province to teach to the Church what the doctrine is. It is your province to echo what I say or to remain silent."

50 years ago today - Feb 19, 1966

Ezra Taft Benson avoided the issue of American Opinion being a John Birch Society publication, nor did McKay bring it up. Instead, he repeated that "the magazine is considered a high-type magazine" on whose cover the pictures of Senator Barry Goldwater, J. Edgar Hoover, and other prominent men had appeared. Furthermore, he reminded McKay that he had given his word on the matter. Although McKay had been adamant only two days before, he now decided "that they had better go ahead with it since I had given my permission for this to be done." McKay did not tell any of his other associates that he had reversed field on the issue.

[Source: David O. McKay diary as referenced in Gregory A. Prince and Wm. Robert Write, David O. McKay and the Rise of Modern Mormonism. Salt Lake City: University of Utah Press (2005)]

65 years ago today - Feb 19, 1951

[Letter to Bishops from First Presidency] Dear Brethren:

It is unanimously recommended by the Presiding Bishopric, the Presidency of the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association, and the Advisors to the General Mutual Improvement Board that the close cooperation of the Bishoprics of Wards, the Sunday School and the Mutual Improvement Association leaders of the Girls' Program be continued as heretofore, even though the Girls' Program is now placed under the direct supervision of the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association.

... it seems not only advisable but essential that the Bishopric of each Ward hold at least two meetings each month-one with the officers and teachers of the Aaronic Priesthood, and another with the officers and teachers of the girls of corresponding age. We are informed that the meeting with the Aaronic Priesthood is already being held.

We now recommend that the Bishopric of each Ward arrange to hold a monthly meeting with the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association Presidency, and attendance secretary, Sunday School secretary, and the class leaders of the Bee Hive, Mia Maid and Junior Cleaner groups....

[Source: 1951-February 19-Original circular letter, L.D.S. Church, in Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]

120 years ago today - Feb 19, 1896

[J. Golden Kimball] Attended meeting of 1st Council [of the Seventy] held at Temple. ... Bro[ther] [B. H.] Roberts wrote that he would cancell all his appointments and not meet with council again until matters, or difficulties are arranged. Talked some with Elders Wells & Fjeldsted about Roberts case and wondered if we could do him any good.

[Source: J. Golden Kimball, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]

125 years ago today - Feb 19, 1891

A delegation of Mormon young women and plural wives attends the first meeting of the National Council of Women, which accepts the Relief Society as a charter member.

[Source: The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]

165 years ago today - Feb 19, 1851

[Lorenzo Brown] Attended meeting this evening at Israel Hoits good meeting & a good deal of talking in tongues because they could not talk in their own

[Source: Journal of Lorenzo Brown: 1823-1900]

170 years ago today - Thursday, Feb 19, 1846.

[First snowstorm after pioneers leave Nauvoo] The wind blew steadily from the northwest, accompanied by snow which fell to the depth of 7 or 8 inches, but much of it thawed as it fell. The storm was unceasing and there was very little passing in or out of camp. The evening was very cold, which caused much suffering in the camp for there were many who had no tents or any comfortable place to lodge.

[Source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

180 years ago today - Feb 19, 1836

Joseph Smith "conversed with Mr. [Joshua] Seixas [the Hebrew teacher] upon the subject of religion, . . ." Joseph writes in his diary, "He listened with attention and appeared interested with my remarks. I believe the Lord is striving with him by his Holy Spirit and that he will eventually embrace the new and everlasting covenant, for he is a chosen vessel unto the Lord to do his people good. But I forbear lest I get to prophesying upon his head."

50 years ago today - 50 years ago - Feb 18, 1966

[David O. McKay] Apostle Mark E. Petersen stated that the Church Information Service had received a bill for $25 for a color photograph of McKay for the cover o f American Opinion, "which is the John Birch Society organ…. Elder Petersen said that if my picture is so published it will certainly look as though the Church is endorsing the John Birch Society. ... I said that my picture should not appear on this magazine; that the Church has nothing to do with the John Birch Society. I authorized Brother Petersen to tell Brother Benson that he had brought this matter to my attention, and had been told by me to stop the printing of my picture on this magazine; that I do not want it used in that way. I said to Brother Petersen, "You are ordered in the presence of these men to stop it." I further said that I do not want to have anything to do with the John Birch Society; that the Church has had nothing to do with it in the past, and that so far as Brother Benson is concerned, I do not think we would hear anything more about it.

[Source: David O. McKay diary as referenced in Gregory A. Prince and Wm. Robert Write, David O. McKay and the Rise of Modern Mormonism. Salt Lake City: University of Utah Press (2005)]

105 years ago today - 105 years ago - Feb 18, 1911

Former apostle John W. Taylor comes into Apostle John Henry Smith's office "very much angered at president Francis M. Lyman and the Twelve. . . . He demanded an Interview with Pres[iden]t Joseph F. [Smith] and me. He was quite wild. He staid over two hours. . . . He demanded that President J. F. Smith call the Counsel of fifty to protect him from the Twelve in his violations of the law [for polygamy]." On Mar 28, 1911 John W. Taylor is excommunicated. At his excommunication trial (conducted by the Quorum of Twelve) he asks that President Joseph F. Smith be called on his behalf but the Quorum refuses.

125 years ago today - 125 years ago - Feb 18, 1891

Brothers Willard and Richard W. Young called and submitted a draft of a deed for the proposed university. We approved of it. There was some discussion concerning the name. They both favored calling the university 'Young University'. President [Wilford] Woodruff, Brother [Francis M.] Lyman and myself thought that would be a very good name. Brothers Lorenzo Snow and Jos[eph]. F. Smith did not seem to favor that name. They thought 'Brigham Young University' would be better. Brother [Heber J.] Grant did not express himself fully, though I rather think he favored the latter. The two points in my mind which made me favor calling it the 'Young University' are that the heirs seem to desire that name, and the name 'Brigham Young' is applied already to the college at Logan [Utah] and the academy at Provo [Utah], and the tendency would be instead of calling it 'Brigham Young University,' to call it the B.Y. University.

[Source: George Q. Cannon, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]

140 years ago today - 140 years ago - Feb 18, 1876

Sodomy or "crime against nature" becomes illegal in Utah Territory. Sodomy was defined as anal intercourse, a felony punishable by 5 years in prison. In 1907 the law changed the jail time to 23 years imprisonment. In 1923 hetero/homosexual oral sex added to sodomy statute. In 1953, sodomy is reduced from a felony to a class B misdemeanor.

[Source: Timeline of Mormon Thinking About Homosexuality, http://rationalfaiths.com/timeline-of-mormon-thinking-about-homosexuality/]

155 years ago today - 155 years ago - Feb 18, 1861

President Young & Orson Hyde had discussed the treatment for the cure of the Croup in children. The President said his medicine for the cure of the Croup was lobelia, consecrated oil & molasses. He remarked it was in the nature of lobelia to draw the disease to the stomach, and then puke it off He remarked lobelia should be used carefully because it was a stimulant, and after using large doses people felt exhausted. If a man had a sore upon his foot the lobelia would wither throw the disease out, or draw the disease to the stomach and then puke it out. Br[other] O. Hyde remarked that Spirits of Turpentine was very good for Croup. -- Salt Lake City

[Source: Brigham Young Office Journals, 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 - 165 years ago - Feb 18, 1851

[Hosea Stout] Went to se Major painting Parleys family group which looked splendid[.] It consisted of 7 wives & children

[Source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

170 years ago today - Feb 18, 1846

Brigham Young organizes the pioneer's camp across the river from Nauvoo: "if the brethren could not bring their minds to perfect order, they had better leave the camp and I would have no feelings against them; that after dark no man must leave camp without the countersign, nor approach the guard abruptly; that every family must call on the Lord night and morning at every tent or wagon and we shall have no confidence in the man who does not." A lost and found is set up and a system of colored flags is announced to call various leaders to come for instructions and two cannons are brought into camp. Afterwards Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball and others "returned to Nauvoo . . . and met for prayer in the Temple."

170 years ago today - Feb 18, 1846

An article appears in the WARSAW SIGNAL concerning the endowment ceremony introduced in the Nauvoo Temple two months previously and says that participants in the endowment are "in a state of nudity throughout the ceremony, . . ." Two months later, in the Apr 15, 1846, issue, a woman who signs her name "Emeline" writes a response. Although "Emeline" admits that she is breaking oaths and covenants she has made in the temple by revealing the contents of the ritual, she feels justified because church authorities were "the most debased wretches" and the that endowment was "nothing less than fearful blasphemy." Nevertheless, she denies that the ceremony takes place in a state of nudity, except for an initial robing ceremony during which only women were present and states that no indecency took place between men and women since they are admitted separately. Although she admits that she did not remember many of the details of the ceremony, she describes the rooms, some of the characters, as well as the fact that there were oaths, obligations, and penalties. February 18, 1850. While her husband, William Clayton plays with the band for a dancing party, his youngest wife Diantha, at her husband's suggestion, dances with a certain Mr. Grist, a gentile. The band, however, plays a waltz, and the sensibilities of some good Saints are shocked to see the wife of William Clayton waltzing with a gentile. News of this reaches top authorities and two days later, after Clayton has gone to work, an apostle and another elder arrive at his home and confront Diantha. They accuse her of three serious errors unbefitting a Latter-day Saint: (1) waltzing with a gentile, (2) "harboring and encouraging" gentiles in her home during the past winter," and (3) "slandering the authorities of the church to the Gentiles." That evening Clayton writes to Brigham Young: "The peace of my family is in a great degree destroyed," for the priesthood leaders had given his young wife a "very severe chastisement."

175 years ago today - Feb 18, 1841

In England Wilford Woodruff receives a letter from his wife: "It was truly a feast to me to hear from my Dear wife [and] child . . . after being separated nearly two years from them."

130 years ago today - Feb 17, 1886

George Q. Cannon, arrested for polygamy, is released on $45,000 bail. Apostles Heber J. Grant, John W. Taylor, Franklin D. Richards and John Henry Smith visit him at his home and "found him badly bruised but feeling cheerful." Cannon was "badly bruised" from jumping from a moving train in an escape attempt after being arrested.

130 years ago today - Feb 17, 1886

[Wilford Woodruff] My abode was visited to day by 2 spotter. They did not finally search the House But they made a great Deal of Enquiry about the House but finally went off. <I was hid.>

[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 - Feb 17, 1856

Prest Young said: if a man has many visions he is more liable to be overcome by the devil than the man that has no visions.... When this Church goes to Jackson Co. they will go from the West towards the East and not go through South America or Texas as many think. But before we go there we must live in a desolate place where gentiles can't, till we get a large company. When people leave a gathering place of the Saints to find a good country where they can live easy, they will apostatize or be driven from it. -- SLC Tabernacle

[Source: John Pulsipher Journal, BYU. 38, 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 - Feb 17, 1856

[Brigham Young] When a person apostatizes, he continues to decrease until they are wilted out to nothing - My spirit in me was not a particle contaminated by the fall of Adam but in consequence of being connected with the body it must continue until it is released - The devil had not a particle of power over the spirit but if I die in my sins then he continues his power - he will destroy sin and he that hath the power of it - he will decompose it into element but not annihilated - the individuality is annihilated - The earth and the air is full of the properties of the grape. -- Salt Lake City

[Source: Leonard J. Arrington Papers, Special Collections, Merrill-Cazier Library, Utah State University, Logan. (A reference reading LJA 12-55-5, 10, means LJA Series 12, Box 55, Folder 5, page 10.) 9-13-4, 169, 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 - Feb 17, 1856

Brigham Young "asked Elder Orson Pratt what He thought of his preaching that intelligent beings would continue to learn to all Eternity. O. Pratt said that He believed the Gods had a knowledge at the present time of every thing that ever did exist to the endless ages of all Eternity. He believed it as much as any truth that he had ever learned in or out of this Church. President Young remarked that he had never learned that principle in the church for it was not taught in the Church for it was not true. It was fals[e] doctrin[e] For the Gods and all intelligent Beings would never cease to learn except it was the Sons of perdition they would continue to decrease until they became dissolved back into their native Element & lost their Identity." This is only one point of doctrine over which Brigham Young and Orson Pratt differed throughout their lives. In 1980, Apostle Bruce R. McConkie calls Brigham Young's doctrine that God continues to learn a "deadly heresy" and says: "[t]his is false-utterly, totally, and completely. There is not one sliver of truth in it."

170 years ago today - Feb 17, 1846

[Brigham Young] instructed the brethren to ... never to borrow without asking leave and then be sure and return the same lest your brother be vexed with you and in his anger curse you and then you will be cursed according to the power of the priesthood that a brother professes, and evil will come upon you; that all dogs in the camp should be killed if the owners would not tie them; that any man who would keep a horse in camp that had distemper should forfeit all his horses; ... He then called upon all who wanted to go with the camp to raise their right hand, and all hands were up.

[Source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

175 years ago today - Feb 17, 1841

[Heber C. Kimball] And it come to pass that we went to Barttalomy [St. Bartholomew] Hospital. We went threw one room whare we saw as menny as 20 bodies of men and wimmen Laid in diffrent Situations under diffrent stats [states] of decetion [dissection], some just brought in with thare mouths soad [sewed] up. I must confess It gave wonderfull feelings.

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

10 years ago today - 10 years ago - Feb 16, 2006

L A Times front page story "Bedrock of a Faith is Jolted" on fact that DNA studies show no Hebrew ancestry to Native Americans.

25 years ago today - 25 years ago - Feb 16, 1991

Arizona Republic' publishes an analysis of decades of talks by Seventy's president Paul H. Dunn who has misrepresented his military and baseball careers in order to tell "faith-promoting" stories to LDS youth and young adults. This is based on the research of investigative reporter Lynn Packer, whose teaching employment is terminated at BYU after the story's publication. In an interview Dunn defends himself by saying that parables of Jesus are not literally true either. On 23 Oct. Dunn writes an "Open Letter to the Members of the Church," confessing his "inaccurate" sermons and "other activities inconsistent with the high and sacred office which I have held." He acknowledges that general authorities "have censured me and placed a heavy penalty upon me." In addition to receiving emeritus status in 1989, five years before its normal implementation at age seventy, the unnamed "heavy penalty" allegedly now includes Dunn's loss of LDS privileges. Without formal disfellowshipment this would be similar to the 1911 decision concerning Matthias F. Cowley, who also had been previously released as a general authority before his added punishment.

[Source: The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]

25 years ago today - 25 years ago - Feb 16, 1991

Leftist rebels in Santiago, Chile, set a Mormon chapel afire and leave pamphlets protesting the U.S.-led war against Iraq. According to the Associated Press, the attack is one of a number of attacks against U.S. and European targets in South America after the war began.

65 years ago today - 65 years ago - Feb 16, 1951

[George Albert Smith to Arthur Haycock] ... You know as much or more about my affairs as anybody. I am not gaining any strength, and unless the Lord takes a hand it will not be long before it is over. ... Zion's Savings Bank has been appointed my trustee, as you know, and my will provides for the division of the real estate amongst my children, share and share alike. I don't think my girls have any idea how near I have been to the other side. I haven't felt that my work was done at all.... The big automobile belongs to the Church. It isn't mine. One of my regrets is that I have been unable to organize a library and dispose of it. I don't know how I ever got here (in the hospital). They never talked to me about it. I don't like the idea of being in the hands of doctors all the time. I want to leave some of it up to the Lord. Arthur, I want you to know that I have absolute confidence in your faith and integrity and in you as a member of the Church. My family feel toward you just as I do. The Lord bless you, and many, many thanks for your kindnesses. As long as I have the money I want to pay my own hospital expenses. I don't want the Church to do it.

[Source: 'Statement Made by President George Albert Smith to His Secretary, D. Arthur Haycock, Friday, February 16, 1951, 10:15 A.M., L.D.S. Hospital, Room 703', as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]

105 years ago today - 105 years ago - Feb 16, 1911; Thursday

[John W. Taylor to Joseph F. Smith] Beloved President:

I earnestly request that you call a meeting at your earliest convenience of all of the members of the Kingdom of God [Council of Fifty].

The rights and liberties of some of my co-religionists, my family and myself are now being unjustly attacked and trampled under foot by members of our organization, contrary to our sacred rights that we are entitled to enjoy under the provisions of our constitution.

... In the name of every thing that is sacred to the heart of man, I implore you as Prophet, President and King, to grant unto me a hearing at once, that I may more fully set forth the reasons for my grievance which the consitution of the Kingdom of God so fully guarantees to its members.

Anxiously awaiting an answer, I remain with the sentiments of the highest esteem, Your brother in the bonds of the New and Everlasting Covenant and fellow laborer in the Kingdom of God.

[signed] John W. Taylor

[Note at top of letter:] Not granted I think the demand most absurd. J[oseph]. F. S[mith].

[Source: John W. Taylor, letter to Joseph F. Smith, and Joseph F. Smith, handwritten response, Quinn Papers, original in LDS Archives]

130 years ago today - 130 years ago - Feb 16, 1886

[Wilford Woodruff] It is Confirmed to day that Georg Q Cannon is arested & in the Hands of the Marshals. We are in the Midst of a National Persecution. The United States Government is making war upon the Latter Day Saints. Judgment is begining at the House of God. But if the Saints Suffer for their Religion Our Persecuters will Suffer for thir sins. Great things await this Generation. Behold the signs of the time. Watch for the Coming of the Son of Man.

[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 - 170 years ago - Feb 16, 1846

Brigham Young, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, organizes the Camp of Israel at Sugar Creek, Iowa, preparatory to the Saints' trek across the plains. The organization includes captains of tens, fifties, and hundreds.

20 years ago today - Feb 16, 1996

[Same-Sex Marriage] Rex E. Lee, issues a position paper arguing for the limitation of marriage to opposite-sex partners.

[Source: Crapo, Richley, Chronology Of Mormon / LDS Involvement In Same-Sex Marriage Politics http://www.mormonsocialscience.org/?q=node/59]

175 years ago today - Feb 16, 1841

Wilford Woodruf writes while in England of "the awful Judgments that await the Nations. WAR WAR is [at] the door between England & America. O Lord Deliver us."

180 years ago today - 16Feb36

[Joseph Smith] Shows Papyri

[Source: The Parallel Joseph, http://www.boap.org/LDS/Parallel/]

105 years ago today - 105 years ago - Wednesday, Feb 15, 1911

[Second Counselor John Henry Smith] Salt Lake City

I paid To Willard T. Cannon the final payment on the Dover Hotel building for J[osephine] G. Smith $258.41.

[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]

105 years ago today - 105 years ago - Feb 15, 1911

Former Apostle John W. Taylor is summoned by the Quorum of Apostles: "By these presents you are summoned to appear before the Council of the Twelve Apostles in the Salt Lake Temple at 10 A.M. on Wednesday February 22, 1911, to vindicate yourself of the claim entertained by your brethren that you have married a plural wife within the last six years contrary to the discipline of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and that you have aided and encouraged others to enter such a relationship. You will also be required to answer any and all questions that may be put to you by the Council upon these points, to tell us the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. Do not fail to appear as we shall be in session there and then to receive you."

105 years ago today - 105 years ago - Feb 15, 1911

Met with some of the Twelve in Temple. Had up method of reaching J[ohn]. W. Taylor. Decided to summon him to appear one week from date, [Anthony W.] Ivins to serve it also to postpone [Matthias F.] Cowley case for one week.

[Source: Charles W. Penrose, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]

110 years ago today - 110 years ago - Feb 15, 1906; Thursday

The regular meeting of the First Presidency and Apostles was held in the temple this morning.

It was decided to reorganize the Wayne [Utah] Stake Presidency, and Gearson S. Bastian, first counselor to President [Willis E.] Robinson, was unanimously chosen as the new President, in the understanding that he enter upon the duties of his office at once, and be set apart later. President Robinson is to be advised of this action and requested to turn over the affairs of the stake in his custody to Brother Bastian. This was done on motion of President Francis M. Lyman.

A letter was read from Sister Martha H. Tingey, asking whether or not the Young Ladies Mutual Improvement Association should continue to retain membership in the National Council of Women's organizations and to send delegates occasionally to its conventions?

It was decided to advise Sister Tingey to continue the Association's membership in the National Council, and to send delegates as heretofore. ...

Brother [Charles W.] Penrose said on Friday evening he went to Richmond [Utah] with others to attend the funeral services of Brother [Marriner Wood] Merrill at Richmond on Saturday. The Richmond tabernacle had been fitted up temporarily for this purpose. House crowded to the utmost capacity with quite a number of people outside, a large number having come from Logan [Utah] and other places by special train. Pres[iden]t. Anthon H. Lund was present. Good, timely remarks made by all the speakers.

President Lund said he was very much struck with the quiet, peaceful expression of Brother Merrill's face, he looked as though he had just dropped off to sleep.

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

110 years ago today - 110 years ago - Feb 15, 1906

The regular meeting of the First Presidency and Apostles was held in the temple this morning. It was decided to reorganize the Wayne [Utah] Stake Presidency, and Gearson S. Bastian, first counselor to President [Willis E.] Robinson, was unanimously chosen as the new President, in the understanding that he enter upon the duties of his office at once, and be set apart later. President Robinson is to be advised of this action and requested to turn over the affairs of the stake in his custody to Brother Bastian. This was done on motion of President Francis M. Lyman. A letter was read from Sister Martha H. Tingey, asking whether or not the Young Ladies Mutual Improvement Association should continue to retain membership in the National Council of Women's organizations and to send delegates occasionally to its conventions? It was decided to advise Sister Tingey to continue the Association's membership in the National Council, and to send delegates as heretofore. ... Brother [Charles W.] Penrose said on Friday evening he went to Richmond [Utah] with others to

attend the funeral services of Brother [Marriner Wood] Merrill at Richmond on Saturday. The Richmond tabernacle had been fitted up temporarily for this purpose. House crowded to the utmost capacity with quite a number of people outside, a large number having come from Logan [Utah] and other places by special train. Pres[iden]t. Anthon H. Lund was present. Good, timely remarks made by all the speakers. President Lund said he was very much struck with the quiet, peaceful expression of Brother Merrill's face, he looked as though he had just dropped off to sleep.

[Source: Journal History, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]

110 years ago today - 110 years ago - Thursday, Feb 15, 1906

[Apostle John Henry Smith] Washington, D.C.

I met Senators Tom Carter of Montana, [Jacob] Gallinger of New Hampshire, Teller of Colorado. With the later two I had nice free conversations on the position of Reed Smoot. They feel that he will keep his seat.

Reed Smoot, F. S. Richards and myself met A. S. Worthington and talked over the situation. Ed. Loose left for home.

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

115 years ago today - 115 years ago - Feb 15, 1901; Friday

It was fully two o'clock this morning before I went to sleep. In thinking over my call to Japan and the many things that might happen during my absence, it seemed that I could not possibly go to sleep. I looked at my watch just before two o'clock and just about that time I hoped sincerely that Karl G. Maeser would be alive when I returned from Japan. I met him yesterday afternoon in connection with my associates at a board meeting of the Sunday School Union meeting. He was looking and feeling well. As I walked down town this morning and passed the Deseret news office, I read a bulletin, announcing the death of Karl G. Maeser. He must have died within an hour or so from the very time that I was hoping he would live until my return from my mission. ...

Ten A.M. attended director's meeting of the Utah Idaho Sugar Co[mpany]. and a 35% stock dividend was unanimously declared. I thank the Lord with all my heart for this dividend as I feel sure that within a very few days the advance in stock will make me from 415,000 to $25,000 directly or indirectly.

[Source: Heber J. Grant, Diary]

115 years ago today - 115 years ago - Friday, Feb 15, 1901

[Apostle Rudger Clawson] Salt Lake City. Cloudy and cool. I spent the day in Brigham City, going in the morning and returning in the evening. I attended to some matters of business while there. Pres. Chas. Kelly is suffering with an attack of his kidneys and is quite sick.

Upon returning home I was shocked to hear of the sudden death of Brother Karl G. Maeser, who passed away during the morning with heart trouble. Brother Maeser has been a very active and faithful man in the church. Under the direction of President Brigham Young, he built up the Brigham Young Academy of Provo and has done a great work as general supt. of Church Schools, asst. supt. of Religion Classes, and general asst. supt. of the Sunday Schools throughout the church. He will be greatly missed.

[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]

120 years ago today - 120 years ago - Feb 15, 1896

At the request of Elder Seymour B. Young, the sum of $15 per month was appropriated by the First Presidency towards the support of the widow and child of the late Elder Herriman of the Presidency of Seventies; $50 was appropriated to aid Elder Ira Hatch who had been on a mission to the Indians of Uintah.

[Source: Journal History, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]

120 years ago today - 120 years ago - Feb 15, 1896

[Apostle Franklin D. Richards] Apostle Moses Thatcher moved from Logan corner of the Temple Block a place bought of Aurelius Miner & formerly owned by Elder William Clayton now metamorphosed into a Palace.

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

125 years ago today - 125 years ago - Feb 15, 1891

[President Wilford Woodruff] 15 Sunday I spent the day in the House reading.

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

125 years ago today - 125 years ago - Sunday, Feb 15, 1891

[Apostle John Henry Smith] Manassa

It is quite lonesome. No meetings of any kind, owing to the small pox scare.

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

130 years ago today - 130 years ago - Feb 15, 1886 (Monday)

In the Third District Court, Samuel F. Ball, and James O. Poulson, charged with u.c. [Unlawful Cohabitation, I.E. living with a polygamous wife], testified in their own cases, and were each adjudged guilty by the jury. Two other indictments against each of them were continued for the term. After trial, in which Eliza Shafer was forced to testify, the jury returned a verdict of guilty against John W. Snell. Robert Morris was sentenced by Judge Zane to six months' imprisonment and $150 fine, and taken to the Penitentiary. Martha T. Cannon, wife of Pres. Geo. Q. Cannon, was insulted in court.

[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

130 years ago today - 130 years ago - Feb 15, 1886

Martha J. Cannon is brought into the third district court. The grand jury complains that she will not answer certain questions, including: "Are you not now a pregnant woman?" .... "Are you not now with child by your husband, [First Counselor] George Q. Cannon?" On still declining to answer the court adjudges her guilty of contempt, and pending sentence she is placed under bonds of $2,500, which are subsequently raised to $5,000.

130 years ago today - 130 years ago - Feb 15, 1886

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff] 15 I wrote Letter to M. E. Teasdale & Mrs P A Christofferson.

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

130 years ago today - 130 years ago - Monday, Feb 15, 1886

[Apostle John Henry Smith] Salt Lake City

Their is no question now but what Bro. G. Q. Cannon has been arrested. Marshall E. A. Ireland says he has fallen from the train and is badly hurt. A. E. Hyde telegraphed that Bro. Cannon was hurt but not seriously.

[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]

135 years ago today - 135 years ago - Feb 15, 1881

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff] 15 I wrote 3 Letters to F Scott, Jesse Hobson & M Cowley.

[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 - Feb 15, 1876

First Presidency Counselor George Q. Cannon publishes an editorial in the JUVENILE INSTRUCTOR criticizing waltzing as "not conducive to health" and "considered improper by the servants of God who are placed to teach us."

145 years ago today - 145 years ago - Feb 15, 1871

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff] 15 I returned to the City. Brother Roberts had returned from the East & Brought 240 stands of Bees of the [-]. I spent most of the day at work among 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 - 155 years ago - Feb 15, 1861

The President noticed that Pres. J. Buchanan had been in London and engaged himself to the British Government to do three things: to annex Cuba, take Mexico, and drive the Mormons. Prest. remarked it was the intention of the Soldiers at Camp Floyd to take and sell what they get from the Government property in camp Floyd. -- Salt Lake City [Brigham Young Office Journals, Special Collections, Merrill-Cazier Library, Utah State University, Logan.; Archives, Church History Library, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Salt Lake City, Utah.; New Mormon Studies CD-ROM]

[Source: 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 - 155 years ago - Feb 15, 1861

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff] 15 We left Ogden & returned home to Great Salt Lake City & spent the night at home. Whole Distance to Box Elder & Back again 130 miles.

[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 - 160 years ago - Feb 15, 1856

[Hosea Stout] Friday 15 Feb 1856. Court met at ten a. m. Several motions were argued and some few cases continued over and court adjourned till Monday next to give place for Elections of Delegates to the state convention tomorrow

[Source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

165 years ago today - 165 years ago - Feb 15, 1851

[Hosea Stout] Saturday 15th February 1851. Last evening Charles Shumway and M. D. Hambleton came in from San-Pete[.] They bring news that M. D. Hambleton on last Sunday killed Dr. J. M. Vaughan for similar conduct with Mrs. H. as took place with Dr & Foots wife last summer.

Hamilton will have a trial on the case befor the Supreme Court soon I suppose, when more will be heard about the matter. I spent the day about the City and at home not however doing much business.

[Source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

165 years ago today - 165 years ago - Feb 15, 1851

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff] 15th I spent the day at home. Sister Mary Nobles died to day.

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

170 years ago today - 170 years ago - Feb 15, 1846, Sunday

[William Clayton Writings] Sunday, 15th. Riding around to get teams and things together. Sent two teams over the river.

[Source: Fillerup, Robert C., compiler; William Clayton Nauvoo Diaries and Personal Writings, A chronological compilation of the personal writings of William Clayton while he was a resident of Nauvoo, Illinois. http://www.boap.org/LDS/Early-Saints/clayton-diaries]

170 years ago today - 170 years ago - Feb 15, 1846. Sunday.

[William Clayton] Riding around to get teams and things together. Sent two teams over [].

[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 - 170 years ago - Sunday, Feb 15, 1846.

[Willard Richards] Very fine morning. Snow 3 or 4 inches deep. William Kay and his wife stayed with me to help me till I left. At 12 noon, got in my carriage furnished by Daniel Parrot and driven by his son, Henry, with Amelia E. P. and Sarah L. Richards, Ellen, Heber John, and Rhoda A. Jennetta, with my buggy lashed behind and tent poles, and arrived across the river about 2 p.m., ... where [there] was President Young and about 50 loaded wagons and carriages, and B. [Brigham] Young would not go on till all who were going at that time were ready. We started about 4, okay. Traveling very bad; about 4 miles out, come to a bad hill and President Young would not go on till he had seen all the teams up, laboring with his own hands. Left the hill at dusk and arrived at Sugar Creek camp about 8. All in conference in camp. 9 miles.

[Source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

170 years ago today - 170 years ago - Feb 15, 1846

[Thomas Bullock journal, Feb. 15, 1846] At home until 5 [p.m.] when I went up to the Temple to pray. We assembled in the Upper Room [attic] at 6 [p.m] [There were] 29 [people] assembled for prayer and Benjamin L. Clapp was leader.

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

170 years ago today - 170 years ago - Feb 15, 1846

[Hosea Stout] Sunday Feb 15th 1846. After regulating the guard I went to Nauvoo as I had been informed that there could not be any waggons procured to carry the public muskets in & I thought that I could make a raise of one. When I landed on the other side of the river I met President Brigham Young just ready to go aboard of his boat to cross over from Nauvoo to the camp[.] He told me to send the rest of the guard over also as soon as possible[.] Accordingly I proceeded to the Temple and sent out orders to the different captains to proceed forthwith accross the river and from thence to Br Noah T Guymans to raise a team there belonging to Robert Johnson[.] After much ado and persuasion he agreed to go & I staid untill he was ready to start and came with him to the Temple and took in about one hundred muskets and while loading them Genl Rich came with a man and a team also for the muskets so I took my load and left him to bring on the rest and then started to the river[.] While going down the hill west of the

Temple my horse being very unruly broke his bridle bits and I leaped off as soon as possible but not before he was near full speed which threw me heels over head down the hill in the watter & sand but not materially hurt otherwise. I proceeded to the river & crossed over and there found Br. Young just ready to start to the other camp who told me to come on with four or five companies[.] I then set all hands to preparing to move leaving Hunter in charge at the camp till morning. We started about four oclock and over took Brigham at the hill 2 miles from the river about dark[.] His teams could not get up the hill without doubling them[.] He was there at work in the mud assisting the teamsterswe also assisted them up and they went on and we were a long time getting up as all our teams had to be doubled also. It was now some time in the night and very cold and the women & children cold and disagreeable. After getting on the hill we proceeded to camp and found Brigham just driving to his fire on the

East side of Sugar Creek which we called Kedronwe also encamped west of him also on the East of the brook.

It was about Eleven oclock when we was through and ready for rest[.] After posting our the guard we retired to rest untill morning.

[Source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

170 years ago today - 170 years ago - Feb 15, 1846

Brigham Young, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, leaves Nauvoo for the West, crossing the Mississippi River and traveling nine miles to the camp on Sugar Creek.

170 years ago today - 170 years ago - Feb 15, 1846

Young leaves Nauvoo with his family, reaching Sugar Creek, Iowa, in the evening.

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

170 years ago today - 170 years ago - Feb 15, 1846

Brigham Young and other leaders cross the frozen Mississippi River, leading exodus west.

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

170 years ago today - 170 years ago - Feb 15, 1846 (Sunday)

Apostles Brigham Young and Willard Richards, with their families, and Apostle Geo. A. Smith crossed the Mississippi river for the West. They traveled nine miles, and camped on Sugar Creek, where Pres. Young spent the following day organizing the camps of the Saints.

[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

170 years ago today - 170 years ago - Feb 15, 1846

Brigham Young leaves Nauvoo with his family, reaching Sugar Creek, Iowa. in the evening.

170 years ago today - 170 years ago - Feb 15, 1846

Brigham Young: Left Nauvoo 15 February 1846.

[Source: Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]

170 years ago today - 170 years ago - Feb 15, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff] 15th Sunday The cold is increasing & getting into our cabins. I have now been with my feet wet boots daily soaked with water 23 days without deing near any fire And we are now dailly obliged to go to bed to warm our feet. This is the coldest day we have had. We had a still night And we got a good nights rest.

[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 - 175 years ago - Feb 15, 1841

Joseph, as chairman of the committee on vending of spirituous liquors, suggests a bill that would prohibit selling whiskey in smaller quantities than a gallon. After a long debate it is passed. Joseph says, "I spoke at great length on the use of liquors, and showed that they were unnecessary, and operate as a poison in the stomach, and that roots and herbs can be found to effect all necessary purposes." (History of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (7 volumes) 4:298-99.)

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

175 years ago today - 175 years ago - Feb 15, 1841

[Heber C. Kimball] 15. I recieved a leter from my wife baring date December the 30 [1840]. All well but the prospect gloomary [gloomy]. I had much Sorrow before the Lord.

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

175 years ago today - 175 years ago - Feb 15, 1841

On a mission in England Heber C. Kimball receives a letter from his wife Vilate relaying a message from Joseph Smith "for the Twelve to come immediately home for our personal Safety, as great Judgments are nigh in this land even at the Door." Kimball, Wilford Woodruff and Lorenzo Snow are apostles on missionary assignments to England at this time.

175 years ago today - 175 years ago - Feb 15, 1841

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff] Feb 15th Elder Kimball received a letter from his wife Dated Nauvoo Dec 30th. She informed us that + Joseph had written for the Twelve to come immediately home for our personal Safety, as great Judgments are nigh in this land even at the Door. ... We feel the forebodeings of the things that are at the door, & spedily await the World. Their is no doubt but what troubles will Soon arise between England & America but may the Lord prepare his Saints for the worst.

[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 - 180 years ago - Feb 15, 1836

[Wilford Woodruff] 15 Spent the day at Sister Matlock's to attend the sale of her Property after the Death of Deacon Caswell Matlock Who died Dec 24, Aged 27 Yrs.

I Solicited Contributions through the day for the building of the house of the Lord at Kirtland Ohio & Procured $25.00 cts from the honourable men & Saints to be applyed to that purpose. Then rode to Br Crawleys. 10 miles. I also contributed $6 dollars myself for the house of the Lord.

[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 - 180 years ago - Feb 15, 1836

[Joseph Smith Diary] 15th Monday the 15th Attended the Hebrew School at the usual hour. Spent the afternoon in reading Hebrew and receiving and waiting upon visitors. On this day we commenced translating the Hebrew language under the instruction of Professor Seixas. He acknowledg[e]'s that we are the most forward of any class he ever taught the same length of time.

[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1835-36, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]

180 years ago today - 180 years ago - Feb 15, 1836

Hebrew school continues translating the Bible from Hebrew. Professor Seixas being absent in the afternoon, Joseph unites in prayer with the other brethren asking that, just as Seixas has been their teacher in Hebrew, they may become his teacher in the gospel, that he might believe the Book of Mormon and be baptized.

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

180 years ago today - 180 years ago - Feb 15, 1836

Joseph Smith writes in his diary: "attended the Hebrew School at the usual hour, - spent the afternoon in reading Hebrew, and in receiving and waiting upon visitors - on this day we commenced translating the Hebrew language, under the instruction of professor Seixas, and he acknowled[e]g's that we are the most forward of any class he ever taught, the same length of time."

185 years ago today - 185 years ago - Mid-Feb. 1831

A woman named Hubble and a man named Hawley have been receiving revelations causing confusion among the Saints. In relation to this Joseph receives D&C 43. He also receives D&C 44.

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

185 years ago today - 185 years ago - Feb 15, 1831

Eber D. Howe "A scene of the wildest enthusiasm was exhibited,. . . they would fall, as without strength, roll upon the floor, . . . they exhibited all the apish actions imaginable, making grimaces both horrid and ridiculous.... At other times they are taken with a fit of jabbering that they neither understand themselves nor any body else, and this they call speaking foreign languages by divine inspiration." [Painesville (Ohio) Telegraph, 15 February 1831, 3]

[Source: Dan Vogel and Scott C. Dunn, '"The Tongue of Angels": Glossolalia among Mormonism's Founders,' Journal of Mormon History Vol. 19, No. 2, 1993]

185 years ago today - 185 years ago - Feb 15, 1831

Lengthy letter from M. S. C. [Matthew S. Clapp] in the Painesville Telegraph reports early Lamanite missionary efforts in the fall of 1830. They arrived "about the last of October, 1830" from Manchester and Palmyra, New York, bringing a pretended revelation, entitled the "Book of Mormon." They came to the brethern of the reformation in Mentor, saluted them as brethern, and professed to rejoice at finding a people walking according to the scriptures of truth, and acknowledging no other guide. ...

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[Source: Kenney, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://web.archive.org/web/20120805163534/saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml]

185 years ago today - 185 years ago - Feb 15, 1831

The Painesville, Ohio TELEGRAPH reports: "He [Sidney Rigdon] then spoke of the supernatural gifts with which he said [Jospeh] Smith was endowed; he said he could translate the scriptures from any language in which they were now extant, and could lay his finger on every interpolation in the sacred writings, adding, that he had proved him in all these things. But my friends knowing that Mr. Rigdon had no knowledge of any language but his own vernacular tongue, asked him how he knew these things, to which Mr. R[igdon] made no direct reply. Mr. Smith arrived at Kirtland the next day; and being examined concerning his supernatural gifts by a scholar, who was capable of testing his knowledge, he confessed he knew nothing of any language, save the king's English. Mr. R[igdon] asserted that our revelation came to us upon human testimony - this we denied, and gave him reasons which he himself formerly urged against DEISTS. He then said the OLD revelation was confirmed by miracles, but the Book of Mormon would never be; it was not designed to be thus confirmed."