[Heber J. Grant]
I am absolutely opposed to any campaign which has for its purpose the promotion of 'moderate' use of alcoholic liquors. ... As I have stood at the graves of some of my near and dear friends who drank liquor to excess, I have pledged myself to fight to the day of my death the use of liquor. These men to whom I refer started with 'moderate drinking.' They made a wreck of their lives and died in middle age; some of them were naturally stronger physically than I was. I attribute my good health today, being in my 79th year, to abstinence from such things. To my mind, the suggestion of a campaign to educate people to drink liquor in moderation is a most vicious and dangerous proposal. ...
[Heber J. Grant, Letter to Mary E. Hudson, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
85 years ago today - Apr 30, 1935
[Heber J. Grant]
... you say 'It has always seemed hypocrisy to me for our church and leaders to preach the Word of Wisdom and then at the same time use our Church money invested in business which sells these very articles which it prohibits.' You refer particularly to the Z.C.M.I. and the Hotel Utah.
I think I am perfectly safe in saying that 90% of all the guests of the Utah Hotel are non- members of the Church. If the hotel did not serve the things that are served in other hotels it never could exist; people would naturally go where they could get the things they are accustomed to having. ...
[Heber J. Grant, Letter to O. N. Anderson, 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]
... you say 'It has always seemed hypocrisy to me for our church and leaders to preach the Word of Wisdom and then at the same time use our Church money invested in business which sells these very articles which it prohibits.' You refer particularly to the Z.C.M.I. and the Hotel Utah.
I think I am perfectly safe in saying that 90% of all the guests of the Utah Hotel are non- members of the Church. If the hotel did not serve the things that are served in other hotels it never could exist; people would naturally go where they could get the things they are accustomed to having. ...
[Heber J. Grant, Letter to O. N. Anderson, 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 - Apr 30, 1900
"A number of young ladies with a guitar" serenade L. John Nuttall who is awakened from his sleep and goes to the window to listen. They sing "O My Father" and other songs. Nuttall had served as personal secretary to Presidents Brigham Young, John Taylor and Wilford Woodruff.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
135 years ago today - Apr 30, 1885
Mass Meeting to send grievances to U.S. President
notified all the Bishops of St. George stake that a mass meeting will be held in St. George Tabernacle for the purpose of representating our griviences as a People to the President of the U.S. and the Nation, asking to be treated like other citizens
[Diary Excerpts of J.D.T. McAllister, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
notified all the Bishops of St. George stake that a mass meeting will be held in St. George Tabernacle for the purpose of representating our griviences as a People to the President of the U.S. and the Nation, asking to be treated like other citizens
[Diary Excerpts of J.D.T. McAllister, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
175 years ago today - Apr 30, 1845
[Nauvoo Neighbor]
Letter: Letter from Pittsburg about Sidney Rigdon -- Signed, "S. S." -- Letter written by a non-Mormon in Pennsylvania, which describes the fires and calamities that have taken place in the state ever since Sidney Rigdon showed up claiming to be the true prophet.
- Letter: Letter from Pittsburg about Sidney Rigdon (2) -- Signed, "Fred. Von Holstein" -- Describes the calamities in Pennsylvania, and Rigdon's supposed leadership of the Church.
[http://boap.org/LDS/Nauvoo-Neighbor]
Letter: Letter from Pittsburg about Sidney Rigdon -- Signed, "S. S." -- Letter written by a non-Mormon in Pennsylvania, which describes the fires and calamities that have taken place in the state ever since Sidney Rigdon showed up claiming to be the true prophet.
- Letter: Letter from Pittsburg about Sidney Rigdon (2) -- Signed, "Fred. Von Holstein" -- Describes the calamities in Pennsylvania, and Rigdon's supposed leadership of the Church.
[http://boap.org/LDS/Nauvoo-Neighbor]
175 years ago today - Apr 30, 1845
Brigham Young (aged 43) marriage to Emmeline Free (1826-1875) (aged 18) her first marriage, 10 children
[Wikipedia, List of Brigham Young's Wives, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Brigham_Young%27s_wives]
[Wikipedia, List of Brigham Young's Wives, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Brigham_Young%27s_wives]
185 years ago today - Apr 30, 1835
[Patriarchal Blessing of Jonathan H. Hale given by Joseph Smith, Sr. ]
... Thou shalt see the heavens open and view the glories of the upper world. ... Thou shalt speak forth marvelous things, and mountains shall flee before thee, rivers of water shall be turned out of their courses, and waters shall be divide at thy word, if necessary. Prison walls shall fall at thy command and nothing sahll [shall] hinder thee from filling thy mission; for thou shalt speak the words of God in power. Thou shalt have power to remain in the flesh and stand when the Lord unveils His face ...
[Patriarchal Blessings]
... Thou shalt see the heavens open and view the glories of the upper world. ... Thou shalt speak forth marvelous things, and mountains shall flee before thee, rivers of water shall be turned out of their courses, and waters shall be divide at thy word, if necessary. Prison walls shall fall at thy command and nothing sahll [shall] hinder thee from filling thy mission; for thou shalt speak the words of God in power. Thou shalt have power to remain in the flesh and stand when the Lord unveils His face ...
[Patriarchal Blessings]
55 years ago today - Apr 29,1965
BYU President Ernest L. Wilkinson makes first reference in his diary to receiving reports from student "spy ring" he has authorized and which becomes national scandal within ten months.
[Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power, Appendix 5, Selected Chronology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1848-1996, http://amzn.to/extensions-power]
[Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power, Appendix 5, Selected Chronology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1848-1996, http://amzn.to/extensions-power]
60 years ago today - Apr 29, 1960
At funeral, first counselor J. Reuben Clark criticizes quartet for leaving out verse concerning Mother in Heaven during their singing of "O My Father."
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
70 years ago today - Apr 29, 1950
[Spencer W. Kimball]
How grateful I am that the Lord has so nearly completely healed my vocal cords. While it is a bit husky yet, I was miraculously healed within hours after I was administered to by Elders Lee and Moyle and Pres. Clark. How very grateful I am!
[Spencer W. Kimball 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]
How grateful I am that the Lord has so nearly completely healed my vocal cords. While it is a bit husky yet, I was miraculously healed within hours after I was administered to by Elders Lee and Moyle and Pres. Clark. How very grateful I am!
[Spencer W. Kimball 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]
130 years ago today - Apr 29, 1890
[Brigham Young Jr.]
I notice that insignificant items of appeal from High Councils are brot. before the Presidency, and they are expected to see everybody no matter tho' the business is too small for a teachers investigation. All of the brethren seem to be investing in Banks and other money making institutions I am out and feel inclined to remain so. Our Quorum represents firms whose employees are at swords points and [?] brethren too. Let me stand aloof tho' I remain poor, or comparatively . ... Bro[ther] Jno. H. Smith said last U. O. [United Order] resembled communism too much, though present system of Cooperations would unite the people, perhaps better, I could not agree with him but said nothing. There is too much time given, to Cooperations, stocks, bonds, politics etc [ie. gentile politics, presum.] by leaders to please me. We are in all kinds of business interests, even the members of the Twelve represent businesses which are jealous of each other and almost ready to fight each other.
[Diary of Apostle Brigham Young Jr., http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
I notice that insignificant items of appeal from High Councils are brot. before the Presidency, and they are expected to see everybody no matter tho' the business is too small for a teachers investigation. All of the brethren seem to be investing in Banks and other money making institutions I am out and feel inclined to remain so. Our Quorum represents firms whose employees are at swords points and [?] brethren too. Let me stand aloof tho' I remain poor, or comparatively . ... Bro[ther] Jno. H. Smith said last U. O. [United Order] resembled communism too much, though present system of Cooperations would unite the people, perhaps better, I could not agree with him but said nothing. There is too much time given, to Cooperations, stocks, bonds, politics etc [ie. gentile politics, presum.] by leaders to please me. We are in all kinds of business interests, even the members of the Twelve represent businesses which are jealous of each other and almost ready to fight each other.
[Diary of Apostle Brigham Young Jr., http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
35 years ago today - Apr 28 1985
LDS Church News publishes text of Hoffman's Salamander Letter, while supporting its authenticity.
[Chronology of Mormon History (Mormon Stories), http://www.mormonstories.org/truth-claims/chronology-of-mormon-history/]
[Chronology of Mormon History (Mormon Stories), http://www.mormonstories.org/truth-claims/chronology-of-mormon-history/]
25 years ago today - Apr 28, 1995
The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints and the American Gathering of Jewish Holocaust Survivors have reached an agreement over the issue of the posthumous baptisms of Jewish Holocaust victims by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. ...
"From the very beginning these discussions were conducted in a positive and friendly manner," Michel said. "They concluded in today's agreement between the Church and the American Gathering of Jewish Holocaust Survivors," he added.
In a statement issue today, the Church agreed, among other actions to be taken, to remove from the next issue of its International Genealogical Index the names of all known Jewish Holocaust victims who are not ancestors of living members of the Church. The American Gathering agreed to communicate with and inform major Jewish organizations as to its agreement with the Church. Four other major Jewish organizations have also approved this agreement....
[A chronicle of the Mormon-Jewish controversy; The LDS Agreement: A JewishGen InfoFile, http://www.jewishgen.org/infofiles/ldsagree.html]
"From the very beginning these discussions were conducted in a positive and friendly manner," Michel said. "They concluded in today's agreement between the Church and the American Gathering of Jewish Holocaust Survivors," he added.
In a statement issue today, the Church agreed, among other actions to be taken, to remove from the next issue of its International Genealogical Index the names of all known Jewish Holocaust victims who are not ancestors of living members of the Church. The American Gathering agreed to communicate with and inform major Jewish organizations as to its agreement with the Church. Four other major Jewish organizations have also approved this agreement....
[A chronicle of the Mormon-Jewish controversy; The LDS Agreement: A JewishGen InfoFile, http://www.jewishgen.org/infofiles/ldsagree.html]
60 years ago today - Apr 28, 1960
The 100th General Assembly of the Southern Presbyterian Church (PCUS) passed a resolution declaring that sexual relations in the context of marriage but without the intent to conceive children were not sinful.
[Cline, Austin, History of American Religion: Timeline]
[Cline, Austin, History of American Religion: Timeline]
130 years ago today - Apr 28, 1890
[Telegram:] 'The house committee on territories this morning by strict party vote, ordered a favorable report on disfranchisement bill. No decision by Supreme Court.' ... The question of establishing a L.D.S. University with Elder Willard Young as president of thereof was talked over. Dr [James E.] Talmage told said it would suit him entirely to be at the head of a the scientific course department of such an establishment and be released from the duties of principal. Very busy in business meeting. I listened trying to store my mind with general information. Zion is growing and the multitude of business cares are piling up on the presidency. Their business must be systamatized or be neglected for no men can endure the strain and confusion now resting upon the First Presidency.
[First Presidency Office Journal, 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]
[First Presidency Office Journal, 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]
135 years ago today - April 28th, 1885
[Abraham H. Cannon Authority Abraham H. Cannon]
He (Frank) is arrested for unlawful cohabitation. And out on bail of $1500. "Frank is down from Ogden again and associating with whores."
[Abraham H. Cannon Journal Excerpts, http://www.amazon.com/Apostles-Record-Journals-Abraham-1889-1896/dp/B000MFD1K4]
He (Frank) is arrested for unlawful cohabitation. And out on bail of $1500. "Frank is down from Ogden again and associating with whores."
[Abraham H. Cannon Journal Excerpts, http://www.amazon.com/Apostles-Record-Journals-Abraham-1889-1896/dp/B000MFD1K4]
140 years ago today - Apr 28, 1880
[Joseph F. Smith]
The subject of the jurisdiction was taken up, Bro[ther] [Orson] Pratt having read a report or an address to the presiding authorities in the church. Some holding that the bishop's court can only disfellowship, but not excommunicate members from the church, others that bishops could cut off any member or officer for transgression. Pending the discussion the council adjourned. Bro[ther]. E[rastus]. Snow threw out an insult to me and M[oses]. Thatcher, but we let it pass.
[Joseph F. Smith Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
The subject of the jurisdiction was taken up, Bro[ther] [Orson] Pratt having read a report or an address to the presiding authorities in the church. Some holding that the bishop's court can only disfellowship, but not excommunicate members from the church, others that bishops could cut off any member or officer for transgression. Pending the discussion the council adjourned. Bro[ther]. E[rastus]. Snow threw out an insult to me and M[oses]. Thatcher, but we let it pass.
[Joseph F. Smith Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
180 years ago today - Apr 28, 1840
[Patriarchal Blessing of Mark Anthony Coombs given by Joseph Smith, Sr.]
... as thou art a man of faith thy prayers shall prevail with the heavens until like Enoch and the brother of Jared thou shalt behold within the vail [veil], and not many days hence thou shalt receive the ministration of the hosts of heaven and thy joy shall be full. ...
And the spirit says thou shalt go unto the Lamanites and speak unto them the words of life and thousands shall believe thy words. Thou shalt be brought to stand before mighty chiefs and they shall speak unto thee in their language and thou shalt ask the Father and he will give unto thee wisdom to speak and understand their language and they shall believe ... thou shalt pray unto God and he will open thy eyes to behold the hidden treasures of the earth, of which thou shalt take and minister ... even if thou shalt go into prisons and bonds thou shalt be delivered by the power of God and thou shalt be a conqueror ...
Thou shalt cross the seas and stand in the palaces of Kings and the great men of the earth, and so great shall be thy power of speech that they shall humble in thy presence for the power of God shall be manifested through thee, unto the convincing them of the truth. ... I say unto thee that there are no blessings in heaven or on earth too great for thee, for there is not a drop of Gentile blood in thy veins...
Thou shalt live to see the winding up scene and thou shalt preach the Gospel as long as there is a wicked man on earth to hear... I now seal thee up unto eternal life and say unto thee thou shalt appear with the Lamb on Mount Zion in the end of thy days with the hundred forty and four thousand having your Father's name written in your forehead and singing the song of Moses & the Lamb. amen.
[Patriarchal Blessings]
... as thou art a man of faith thy prayers shall prevail with the heavens until like Enoch and the brother of Jared thou shalt behold within the vail [veil], and not many days hence thou shalt receive the ministration of the hosts of heaven and thy joy shall be full. ...
And the spirit says thou shalt go unto the Lamanites and speak unto them the words of life and thousands shall believe thy words. Thou shalt be brought to stand before mighty chiefs and they shall speak unto thee in their language and thou shalt ask the Father and he will give unto thee wisdom to speak and understand their language and they shall believe ... thou shalt pray unto God and he will open thy eyes to behold the hidden treasures of the earth, of which thou shalt take and minister ... even if thou shalt go into prisons and bonds thou shalt be delivered by the power of God and thou shalt be a conqueror ...
Thou shalt cross the seas and stand in the palaces of Kings and the great men of the earth, and so great shall be thy power of speech that they shall humble in thy presence for the power of God shall be manifested through thee, unto the convincing them of the truth. ... I say unto thee that there are no blessings in heaven or on earth too great for thee, for there is not a drop of Gentile blood in thy veins...
Thou shalt live to see the winding up scene and thou shalt preach the Gospel as long as there is a wicked man on earth to hear... I now seal thee up unto eternal life and say unto thee thou shalt appear with the Lamb on Mount Zion in the end of thy days with the hundred forty and four thousand having your Father's name written in your forehead and singing the song of Moses & the Lamb. amen.
[Patriarchal Blessings]
185 years ago today - Apr 28, 1835
[Quorum of Twelve minutes]
Elder Mc Lellin then read the commandment given concerning the choosing of the twelve before the Council. Motioned and carried that we each forgive one another every wrong that has existed among us; and that from hence forth each one of the twelve love his brother as himself in temporal as well as in spiritual things, always enquiring into each others welfare.
[Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: Minutes of Meetings and Other Documents--Excerpts, 1835-1896, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
Elder Mc Lellin then read the commandment given concerning the choosing of the twelve before the Council. Motioned and carried that we each forgive one another every wrong that has existed among us; and that from hence forth each one of the twelve love his brother as himself in temporal as well as in spiritual things, always enquiring into each others welfare.
[Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: Minutes of Meetings and Other Documents--Excerpts, 1835-1896, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
185 years ago today - April 28-30, 1835
Doctrine and Covenants 107:1-58. Kirtland, Ohio.
Melchizedek and Aaronic Priesthoods; presidency of the High Priesthood (Melchizedek) can officiate in all offices ; high priests and elders concerned with spiritual affairs ; bishopric presidency of Aaronic ; bishop's "priesthood" lineal ; Aaronic priesthood ministering angels ; church presidency ; Quorum of the Twelve equal to quorum of the church presidency ; seventy missionaries ; quorum of seventy equals Quorum of the Twelve ; Twelve presiding high council ; Twelve direct the seventy ; standing high councils equal traveling high council ; Twelve ordain evangalists [patriarchs] ; lineal priesthood ; Enoch ; Adam's blessing in Adam-ondi-Ahman ; Adam Michael.
...Not printed in the Book of Commandments.
1835 Doctrine and Covenants 3 heading: ON PRIESTHOOD.
[Kenney, Scott; Saints Without Halos, 'Doctrine and Covenants,' http://web.archive.org/web/20120805163534/saintswithouthalos.com/s/_dc.phtml]
Melchizedek and Aaronic Priesthoods; presidency of the High Priesthood (Melchizedek) can officiate in all offices ; high priests and elders concerned with spiritual affairs ; bishopric presidency of Aaronic ; bishop's "priesthood" lineal ; Aaronic priesthood ministering angels ; church presidency ; Quorum of the Twelve equal to quorum of the church presidency ; seventy missionaries ; quorum of seventy equals Quorum of the Twelve ; Twelve presiding high council ; Twelve direct the seventy ; standing high councils equal traveling high council ; Twelve ordain evangalists [patriarchs] ; lineal priesthood ; Enoch ; Adam's blessing in Adam-ondi-Ahman ; Adam Michael.
...Not printed in the Book of Commandments.
1835 Doctrine and Covenants 3 heading: ON PRIESTHOOD.
[Kenney, Scott; Saints Without Halos, 'Doctrine and Covenants,' http://web.archive.org/web/20120805163534/saintswithouthalos.com/s/_dc.phtml]
105 years ago today - 105 years ago - Apr 27, 1915
This communication was prepared by Brother Edward H. Anderson, he having brought to the attention of the Presidency the "Home Evening" gathering, said by him to have been quite successful in the Granite Stake.
Dear Brethren and Sisters:
...we advise and urge the inauguration of a "Home Evening" throughout the Church, at which time fathers and mothers may gather their boys and girls about them in the home and teach them the word of the Lord. ...This "Home Evening" should be devoted to prayer, singing hymns, songs, instrumental music, scripture-reading, family topics and specific instruction on the principles of the gospel, and on the ethical problems of life, as well as the duties and obligations of children to parents, the home, the Church, society and the nation. For the smaller children appropriate recitations, songs, stories and games may be introduced. Light refreshments of such a nature as may be largely prepared in the home might be served.
Formality and stiffness should be studiously avoided, and all the family participate in the exercises. ...
We request that the Presidents of Stakes and Bishops throughout the Church set aside at least one evening each month for this purpose, and that upon such evenings no other Church duties shall be required of the people. ...
[The First Presidency asks LDS families to have "Home Evening" once a month. Mormons generally ignore this and similar appeals for fifty years.]
[1915-April 27-Original letter. Church Historian's Library, as quoted in Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes); http://www.cumorah.org/libros/english/Discourses%20and%20Conferences/Conference%20Report%20-%201910%20a%201919.pdf#page=1558 this conference talk from 1915 , [New Mormon History database ( http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase )]]
Dear Brethren and Sisters:
...we advise and urge the inauguration of a "Home Evening" throughout the Church, at which time fathers and mothers may gather their boys and girls about them in the home and teach them the word of the Lord. ...This "Home Evening" should be devoted to prayer, singing hymns, songs, instrumental music, scripture-reading, family topics and specific instruction on the principles of the gospel, and on the ethical problems of life, as well as the duties and obligations of children to parents, the home, the Church, society and the nation. For the smaller children appropriate recitations, songs, stories and games may be introduced. Light refreshments of such a nature as may be largely prepared in the home might be served.
Formality and stiffness should be studiously avoided, and all the family participate in the exercises. ...
We request that the Presidents of Stakes and Bishops throughout the Church set aside at least one evening each month for this purpose, and that upon such evenings no other Church duties shall be required of the people. ...
[The First Presidency asks LDS families to have "Home Evening" once a month. Mormons generally ignore this and similar appeals for fifty years.]
[1915-April 27-Original letter. Church Historian's Library, as quoted in Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes); http://www.cumorah.org/libros/english/Discourses%20and%20Conferences/Conference%20Report%20-%201910%20a%201919.pdf#page=1558 this conference talk from 1915 , [New Mormon History database ( http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase )]]
105 years ago today - 105 years ago - Apr 27, 1915
This communication was prepared by Brother Edward H. Anderson, he having brought to the attention of the Presidency the "Home Evening" gathering, said by him to have been quite successful in the Granite Stake.
Dear Brethren and Sisters:
...we advise and urge the inauguration of a "Home Evening" throughout the Church, at which time fathers and mothers may gather their boys and girls about them in the home and teach them the word of the Lord. ...This "Home Evening" should be devoted to prayer, singing hymns, songs, instrumental music, scripture-reading, family topics and specific instruction on the principles of the gospel, and on the ethical problems of life, as well as the duties and obligations of children to parents, the home, the Church, society and the nation. For the smaller children appropriate recitations, songs, stories and games may be introduced. Light refreshments of such a nature as may be largely prepared in the home might be served.
Formality and stiffness should be studiously avoided, and all the family participate in the exercises. ...
We request that the Presidents of Stakes and Bishops throughout the Church set aside at least one evening each month for this purpose, and that upon such evenings no other Church duties shall be required of the people. ...
[The First Presidency asks LDS families to have "Home Evening" once a month. Mormons generally ignore this and similar appeals for fifty years.]
[1915-April 27-Original letter. Church Historian's Library, as quoted in Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes); http://www.cumorah.org/libros/english/Discourses%20and%20Conferences/Conference%20Report%20-%201910%20a%201919.pdf#page=1558 this conference talk from 1915 , [New Mormon History database ( http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase )]]
Dear Brethren and Sisters:
...we advise and urge the inauguration of a "Home Evening" throughout the Church, at which time fathers and mothers may gather their boys and girls about them in the home and teach them the word of the Lord. ...This "Home Evening" should be devoted to prayer, singing hymns, songs, instrumental music, scripture-reading, family topics and specific instruction on the principles of the gospel, and on the ethical problems of life, as well as the duties and obligations of children to parents, the home, the Church, society and the nation. For the smaller children appropriate recitations, songs, stories and games may be introduced. Light refreshments of such a nature as may be largely prepared in the home might be served.
Formality and stiffness should be studiously avoided, and all the family participate in the exercises. ...
We request that the Presidents of Stakes and Bishops throughout the Church set aside at least one evening each month for this purpose, and that upon such evenings no other Church duties shall be required of the people. ...
[The First Presidency asks LDS families to have "Home Evening" once a month. Mormons generally ignore this and similar appeals for fifty years.]
[1915-April 27-Original letter. Church Historian's Library, as quoted in Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes); http://www.cumorah.org/libros/english/Discourses%20and%20Conferences/Conference%20Report%20-%201910%20a%201919.pdf#page=1558 this conference talk from 1915 , [New Mormon History database ( http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase )]]
55 years ago today - Apr 27, 1965
BYU President Ernest Wilkinson wrote to Apostle Benson's son Mark for "any specific information that will be helpful to me respecting [professor] Richard Poll and his associates . . ."
[Ernest L. Wilkinson to Mark Benson, 27 Apr. 1965, Wilkinson 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.]
[Ernest L. Wilkinson to Mark Benson, 27 Apr. 1965, Wilkinson 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.]
65 years ago today - Apr 27, 1955
The First Presidency and Church Board of Education send out a letter stating that Ricks College would return to its status as a junior college after having been a four-year school since the 1949–50 school year.
19150427
105 years ago - Apr 27, 1915
[1915-April 27-Original letter. Church Historian's Library, as quoted in Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes); http://www.cumorah.org/libros/english/Discourses%20and%20Conferences/Conference%20Report%20-%201910%20a%201919.pdf#page=1558 this conference talk from 1915 , [New Mormon History database ( http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase )]]
[1915-April 27-Original letter. Church Historian's Library, as quoted in Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes); http://www.cumorah.org/libros/english/Discourses%20and%20Conferences/Conference%20Report%20-%201910%20a%201919.pdf#page=1558 this conference talk from 1915 , [New Mormon History database ( http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase )]]
120 years ago today - Apr 27, 1900
President [Lorenzo] Snow was at the office, President [Joseph F.] Smith also. President Snow authorized the surrender to Elder Heber J. Grant of an I.O.U. given by him in 1893 for $2,000. as a donation for the Salt Lake Temple. At that time special donations were called for the purpose of completing the Temple. Elder Grant donated $3,000. for himself and family; and the year after paid $1,000 of that amount but soon after the financial panic came and he lost all the means he had and was left greatly in debt. On the 16th of March last he paid another $500. on his note and then President Snow voluntarily told Elder Grant that as his circumstances were not in the best shape he would surrender the I.O.U.
President Canute Peterson of Sanpete [Utah] wrote some little time ago to the effect that the board of trustees of the Sanpete Stake Academy intended to change the name of their school with a view of doing away with the idea that the patronage of the school is supposed to be confined to Sanpete county or Stake, and in the hope of getting leading men of other stakes interested in it. He stated that the board would like the permission of naming the school The Lorenzo Snow Academy. President Snow took the matter under advisement feeling disinclined to have his name used at all, but on the urgent request of other brethren to day had the following written to President Peterson: In answer to yours asking President Snow's permission that your Academy be called after his name, namely 'The Lorenzo Snow Academy,' I am directed to say that while the President does not like to decline the honor you thus desire to confer upon him, he does not feel that he can permit his name, as suggested, to be given to it, but is willing that it be called 'The Snow Academy,' and thus divide the honor between his deceased friend and brother, Erastus, and himself and hopes this will meet your mind and that of your board, Yours &c, George F. Gibbs, Sec[retar]y.
[Journal History, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
President Canute Peterson of Sanpete [Utah] wrote some little time ago to the effect that the board of trustees of the Sanpete Stake Academy intended to change the name of their school with a view of doing away with the idea that the patronage of the school is supposed to be confined to Sanpete county or Stake, and in the hope of getting leading men of other stakes interested in it. He stated that the board would like the permission of naming the school The Lorenzo Snow Academy. President Snow took the matter under advisement feeling disinclined to have his name used at all, but on the urgent request of other brethren to day had the following written to President Peterson: In answer to yours asking President Snow's permission that your Academy be called after his name, namely 'The Lorenzo Snow Academy,' I am directed to say that while the President does not like to decline the honor you thus desire to confer upon him, he does not feel that he can permit his name, as suggested, to be given to it, but is willing that it be called 'The Snow Academy,' and thus divide the honor between his deceased friend and brother, Erastus, and himself and hopes this will meet your mind and that of your board, Yours &c, George F. Gibbs, Sec[retar]y.
[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 - Apr 27, 1885 (Tuesday)
[Future apostle] Abraham H. Cannon, of Salt Lake City, was arrested on a charge of u.c. [Unlawful Cohabitation, I.E. living with a polygamous wife], and placed under $1,500 bonds.
The jury returned a verdict of guilty against [Stake] Pres. Angus M. Cannon, for u.c.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
The jury returned a verdict of guilty against [Stake] Pres. Angus M. Cannon, for u.c.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
145 years ago today - Apr 27, 1875
Missionary and future apostle John Henry Smith records in his journal: "Chester Call had been perpetrating a fearfull outrage upon a 12 year old daughter of Bro. Scott. The letter was shown to Bro. Call, and he owned to the fact that he had put his hand under her clothes and fingered her privates. The brethren decided that Bro. Call should stop away from meeting on Sunday which he did. On Monday Bros. Lyman and MacFarland went and saw the parents of the child, who told substantially the same story as bro. Call with the exception that the child said he put his finger up her three times. . . . Bro. Call did not try to go any farther in this affair. He went away from the House and was gone three days and returned to Bro. Scotts and asked them to forgive him and they said they would." Chester Call is sent "home as soon as possible."
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
150 years ago today - Apr 27, 1870
An abandoned child was left at the door of Mrs -- The first circumstance of the kind known in Salt Lake City.
[Richards, Franklin Dewey and Little, James A., Compendium of the Doctrines of the Gospel, Church Chronology, Ch.66, p.306, http://www.amazon.com/Compendium-Doctrines-Gospel-ebook/dp/B002LTY4Z0?ie=UTF8tag=mormonchronic-20link_code=btlcamp=213689creative=392969]
[Richards, Franklin Dewey and Little, James A., Compendium of the Doctrines of the Gospel, Church Chronology, Ch.66, p.306, http://www.amazon.com/Compendium-Doctrines-Gospel-ebook/dp/B002LTY4Z0?ie=UTF8tag=mormonchronic-20link_code=btlcamp=213689creative=392969]
165 years ago today - Apr 27, 1855
Lieutenant in Colonel E.J. Steptoe's command at Salt Lake City writes friend about his romance and near seduction of wife of Brigham Young's son Joseph (who is on mission): "Mary [Ayers] Young I had to give up. Brigham sent me word-that if I took her away he would have me killed before I could get out of the Territory. He is a man of his word in little matters of this sort and I concluded I had better not do it, although I went back to the city purposely to get her. We wrote each other affectionate notes."
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database ( http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase )]]
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database ( http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase )]]
175 years ago today - Apr 27, 1845
Orson Hyde gives a speech in which Nancy Rigdon [who rejected a proposal by Joseph Smith] is described as: "poor miserable girl out of the very slough of prostitution"
[Exploring Mormonism: Polygamy Timeline, http://www.exploringmormonism.com/polygamy-timeline/]
[Exploring Mormonism: Polygamy Timeline, http://www.exploringmormonism.com/polygamy-timeline/]
175 years ago today - Apr 27, 1845
Old Father Cowles [former high councilman] one of Laws apostates was there, a company of boys assembled to whistle him out of Town but I prevented them. I came home and in the evening went to police,on my way was informed that the old man had been whistled out immediately after meeting. I met police & came home before dark.
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
175 years ago today - Apr 27, 1845
Orson Hyde refers to Negroes as the cursed lineage of Canaan and says that the curse of servility which they bore was for actions in the Preexistence. He also expressed the fear that the curse of Cain would come on him and his posterity if he did not repent his apostasy.
["Speech Delivered Before the High Priests Quorum in Nauvoo", MS in Utah State Historical Society referenced in Crapo, Richley, Chronology Pertaining to Blacks and the LDS Priesthood]
["Speech Delivered Before the High Priests Quorum in Nauvoo", MS in Utah State Historical Society referenced in Crapo, Richley, Chronology Pertaining to Blacks and the LDS Priesthood]
55 years ago today - Apr 26, 1965
Covert surveillance occurs by BYU-Birch student in the form of either correspondence, classroom questioning, or private meetings to extract "pro-Communist" views from their professors.
[Whittaker and McClellan, "The Collection: Description," 2, register of Hillam Papers; Stephen Hays Russell to Ernest L. Wilkinson, 26 Apr. 1965. 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.]
[Whittaker and McClellan, "The Collection: Description," 2, register of Hillam Papers; Stephen Hays Russell to Ernest L. Wilkinson, 26 Apr. 1965. 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.]
120 years ago today - Apr 26, 1900 (Thursday)
The Supreme Court of Utah sustained the order of the Board of Education of Salt Lake City, to exclude unvaccinated children.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
125 years ago today - Apr 26, 1895
[Wilford Woodruff]
I had an interview with Judge Powers & Patt Lannan. They wanted to get the promise of the Tabernacle for A United States Political Convention for the Nomination of A President. We agreed to Give the use of the Tabernacle for that purpose.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
I had an interview with Judge Powers & Patt Lannan. They wanted to get the promise of the Tabernacle for A United States Political Convention for the Nomination of A President. We agreed to Give the use of the Tabernacle for that purpose.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
135 years ago today - Apr 26, 1885
[J.D.T. McAllister Diary]
Vision of future events in St. George
This night had a Vision, the top parts of the houses in the first St. George ward and as far as I could see were demolished. my own Ann E. place altered. trees cut down one with the side walk--strangers building large places. Some large ones already.
[Diary Excerpts of J.D.T. McAllister, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
Vision of future events in St. George
This night had a Vision, the top parts of the houses in the first St. George ward and as far as I could see were demolished. my own Ann E. place altered. trees cut down one with the side walk--strangers building large places. Some large ones already.
[Diary Excerpts of J.D.T. McAllister, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
185 years ago today - Apr 26, 1835
Thomas B. Marsh and Orson Pratt are ordained apostles and members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Elder Marsh, erroneously thought to be the eldest, is ordained the president of the quorum.
[Wikipedia: Chronology of Mormonism, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_Mormonism]
[Wikipedia: Chronology of Mormonism, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_Mormonism]
50 years ago today - Apr 25, 1970
CHURCH NEWS has headline reference to recently sustained LDS president as "The Prophet," which is repeated in May 9 article "A Tribute To The Prophet." Joseph Fielding Smith is first LDS president identified by CHURCH NEWS headlines as "The Prophet" throughout his administration. This practice intensifies for his successors.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
70 years ago today - Apr 25, 1950
Ezra Taft Benson was sealed in marriage to his recently deceased cousin, Eva Amanda Benson (July 6, 1882–August 10, 1946). Eva was the never-married daughter of Benson's uncle Frank Andrus Benson. Benson's wife Flora had first suggested acting as proxy for Eva, then did so during the vicarious ordinance performed by Elder Joseph Fielding Smith in the Salt Lake Temple. "I have never witnessed a more unselfish act on the part of any person," Benson recorded, "and I love Flora all the more because of it. The Lord will richly bless her for this act of unselfish love for Eva and me and the Kingdom. Flora is one of the choicest daughters of our Heavenly Father."
[Ezra Taft Benson, Diary, April 25, 1950; Gary James Bergera, "Weak-Kneed Republicans and Socialist Democrats": Ezra Taft Benson as U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, 1953-61, Part 2, Dialogue : A Journal of Mormon Thought, (Winter 2008, vol 41)]
[Ezra Taft Benson, Diary, April 25, 1950; Gary James Bergera, "Weak-Kneed Republicans and Socialist Democrats": Ezra Taft Benson as U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, 1953-61, Part 2, Dialogue : A Journal of Mormon Thought, (Winter 2008, vol 41)]
125 years ago today - Apr 25, 1895
The First Presidency and Twelve meet in the Salt Lake Temple and "we took up the sub[c]jet of H B [B. H.] Roberts & M[oses] Thatcher Advocating Subject in the [statehood] Convention against our interest." Wilford Woodruff states that B.H. Roberts "had done the saints more harm in his Speeches in the Convention than all the liberal element in the city." Roberts had vigorously opposed women suffrage which was favored by the First Presidency.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
135 years ago today - Apr 25, 1885
Mormon colonists in Mexico are ordered by the chief magistrate of Casas Grandes to leave the country by this date. Church leaders appeal to Mexican President Porfirio Diaz who has already decided to let the Mormons stay and has fired the official who issued the expulsion order.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
160 years ago today - Apr 25, 1860
[Brigham Young]
... There is another vary important subject which I wish to speak of & that is the Temptation you will have From women. This has Caused the down fall of more Elders in this Church than any other thing. There is some Elders who go on there missions all there lives and keep themselves Clean & pure all there lives. Others Comes home and are shady. There Countenance Falls. They Cannot look you strait in the Eye. They [have] fallen in the snare.
Joseph Said in speaking to the First Twelve that they would have to watch against this snare For they would have more trouble From this source than any other. Now let evry woman alon while you are gone. Dont lay your hand upon any woman, but keep yourselves Clean. Some have to bring a group of women with them. They have to get a new dove into there house while they are gone. Let those things alone while abroad. But what is done upon that subject let it be done here....
[Brigham Young remarks as quoted in Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
... There is another vary important subject which I wish to speak of & that is the Temptation you will have From women. This has Caused the down fall of more Elders in this Church than any other thing. There is some Elders who go on there missions all there lives and keep themselves Clean & pure all there lives. Others Comes home and are shady. There Countenance Falls. They Cannot look you strait in the Eye. They [have] fallen in the snare.
Joseph Said in speaking to the First Twelve that they would have to watch against this snare For they would have more trouble From this source than any other. Now let evry woman alon while you are gone. Dont lay your hand upon any woman, but keep yourselves Clean. Some have to bring a group of women with them. They have to get a new dove into there house while they are gone. Let those things alone while abroad. But what is done upon that subject let it be done here....
[Brigham Young remarks as quoted in Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
165 years ago today - Apr 25, 1855
[Brigham Young ]
Evening attended the [first meeting of] '"Deseret Theological Institute'" in the Social Hall and heard an address by President B. Young who stated that the whole object of the Institution was comprehended in these words. To know the only wise God and Jesus Christ whom he has sent, which is Life Eternal. Spoke of Adam being a God and head of the human family. to know him was to learn his true character. He spoke for more than an hour. -- Salt Lake City
[Sermons and Writings of the Restoration. 4 Vols. Ogden Kraut, ed. Pioneer Press, 1994, quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
Evening attended the [first meeting of] '"Deseret Theological Institute'" in the Social Hall and heard an address by President B. Young who stated that the whole object of the Institution was comprehended in these words. To know the only wise God and Jesus Christ whom he has sent, which is Life Eternal. Spoke of Adam being a God and head of the human family. to know him was to learn his true character. He spoke for more than an hour. -- Salt Lake City
[Sermons and Writings of the Restoration. 4 Vols. Ogden Kraut, ed. Pioneer Press, 1994, quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
175 years ago today - Apr 25, 1845
James H. Monroe, a convert and school teacher in Nauvoo who taught the children of Joseph Smith and Brigham Young, writes in his diary: "My time was spent, when not occupied with my school, in reading Fowler's Phrenology, a very valuable work in my estimation, and containing much information of especial benefit to me in my present capacity, as it enables me to form a better opinion of the tastes, feelings, and powers of my little protiges and thereby suggests the proper mode of education, and tells me which faculties are necessary to be cultivated. I think I must make out a chart of their heads with a description of their character as shown by the development of their organs, and then concoct a plan for their education in accordance with those principles." Four days later he complete's the phrenology chart of Joseph Smith III's head, "which [was] admitted to be correct by his mother "
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
105 years ago today - Apr 24, 1915
[Harold Reynolds to Walter Monson]
The first Council of Seventy, however, have been asked to get 100 seventies for the European mission, and they will have difficulty and it is a question whether or not they will be able to get the number asked for. Of course these brethren will be sent to Europe as they have not had any missionaries arrive or go to Europe since last June, and an effort is being made now to supply them with the help they are so greatly in need of. They have released many elders since the war broke out and as you know most of their elders were transferred to the missions in the United States, so it will be impossible to send you 75 seventies.
[Harold G. Reynolds, Letter to Walter P. Monson, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
The first Council of Seventy, however, have been asked to get 100 seventies for the European mission, and they will have difficulty and it is a question whether or not they will be able to get the number asked for. Of course these brethren will be sent to Europe as they have not had any missionaries arrive or go to Europe since last June, and an effort is being made now to supply them with the help they are so greatly in need of. They have released many elders since the war broke out and as you know most of their elders were transferred to the missions in the United States, so it will be impossible to send you 75 seventies.
[Harold G. Reynolds, Letter to Walter P. Monson, 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 - Apr 24, 1895
[Brigham Young Jr.]
Loafed around the office for want of something better to do. Have read Bro[ther] [Apostle] M.[oses] Thatcher's speech on the Convention and disapp[r]ove of it, he is out of order-- abusive, he is not united with his quorum. Learn that certain are employing spotters to catch leading men on Unlawful Cohab. The cloven foot is coming out gain the Repub[lican], organ is firing big gums at Church authorities. The "Lib" Party begins to wriggle & spit venom.
[Diary of Apostle Brigham Young Jr., http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
Loafed around the office for want of something better to do. Have read Bro[ther] [Apostle] M.[oses] Thatcher's speech on the Convention and disapp[r]ove of it, he is out of order-- abusive, he is not united with his quorum. Learn that certain are employing spotters to catch leading men on Unlawful Cohab. The cloven foot is coming out gain the Repub[lican], organ is firing big gums at Church authorities. The "Lib" Party begins to wriggle & spit venom.
[Diary of Apostle Brigham Young Jr., http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
130 years ago today - Apr 24, 1890
[Brigham Young Jr.]
Presidency cannot Consent to have our people promise to obey the 'law,' repudiate all wives but one, tho' some of the brethren who are actually obeying the law want to know what the difference is. In our circle meeting this afternoon I had a strong intimation or impression, I thought of the spirit, that Joseph F. Smith & myself will wear this anti Polygamy law out, and ere long we shall ride in these streets with our wives and children.
[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]
Presidency cannot Consent to have our people promise to obey the 'law,' repudiate all wives but one, tho' some of the brethren who are actually obeying the law want to know what the difference is. In our circle meeting this afternoon I had a strong intimation or impression, I thought of the spirit, that Joseph F. Smith & myself will wear this anti Polygamy law out, and ere long we shall ride in these streets with our wives and children.
[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]
135 years ago today - Apr 24, 1885 (Friday)
Bishop Hiram B. Clawson, of Salt Lake City, was arrested on a charge of u.c. [Unlawful Cohabitation, I.E. living with a polygamous wife], and placed under $1,500 bonds.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
175 years ago today - Apr 24, 1845
Emma Smith argues that the Nauvoo high council is the presiding authority of the church and that William Marks is the lawful successor to her husband. She bases this on an 1835 revelation (D&C 107). Brigham Young writes a letter to U.S. President James K. Polk asking, "Will it be too much for us to ask you to convene a special session of congress and furnish us an asylum, where we can enjoy our rights of conscience and religion unmolested?"
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
185 years ago today - Apr 24, 1835
Smith, the Mormon Prophet, was recognised, on Wednesday last, by Justice Miller of this village, for his appearance at the next Court of Common Pleas, to answer to a charge of Assault and Battery committed upon the person of his brother-in-law. [The hearing is postponed when the brother-in-law leaves the state for a time.]
[Kenney, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://web.archive.org/web/20120805163534/saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml]
[Kenney, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://web.archive.org/web/20120805163534/saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml]
40 years ago today - April 22 1980
Church trades $20,000 worth of items from its archive to obtain Hoffman's forged Anthon Script.
[Chronology of Mormon History (Mormon Stories), http://www.mormonstories.org/truth-claims/chronology-of-mormon-history/]
[Chronology of Mormon History (Mormon Stories), http://www.mormonstories.org/truth-claims/chronology-of-mormon-history/]
55 years ago today - Apr 22, 1965
Ezra Taft Benson's son Reed publicly endorsed John Birch Society founder Robert Welch's accusation that U.S. president Eisenhower had been a Communist agent. Then the loyal son probably consulted Apostle Benson in advance about his apparent plan to use the Birch Society to disrupt the next general conference with rumors of a violent demonstration by African-Americans. Ezra Taft Benson's official biography by Sherri Dew (Deseret Book) is silent about Benson's and his son's devotion to the Birch Society but observes that in 1965-66 Reed Benson "continued to be involved in the fight for freedom which his father supported . . ."
["Reed Benson Says Welch Was Correct in Calling Eisenhower Communist," Provo Daily Herald, 22 Apr. 1965, 2; Dew, Ezra Taft Benson, 391. 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.]
["Reed Benson Says Welch Was Correct in Calling Eisenhower Communist," Provo Daily Herald, 22 Apr. 1965, 2; Dew, Ezra Taft Benson, 391. 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.]
125 years ago today - Apr 22, 1895
[Apostle Brigham Young Jr.]
Alas one of our number [Apostle Moses Thatcher] seems to persist in walking alone and tho' weak in body professes to be strong in the Lord. I fear much for his life & sta[n]ding in his Quorum. If he were more humble God would spare his life [from illness] I believe.
[Diary of Apostle Brigham Young Jr., http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
Alas one of our number [Apostle Moses Thatcher] seems to persist in walking alone and tho' weak in body professes to be strong in the Lord. I fear much for his life & sta[n]ding in his Quorum. If he were more humble God would spare his life [from illness] I believe.
[Diary of Apostle Brigham Young Jr., http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
130 years ago today - Apr 22, 1890
[Apostle Marriner W. Merrill]
Brother Poulter taking us with his team in company with his wife (one of Thomas Grover's girls, and one of his 52 children) to Snake River, about 25 miles ...
[Notes from the Miscellaneous Record Book, 1886-1906: Selected diary notes from the journal books of Marriner Wood Merrill, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
Brother Poulter taking us with his team in company with his wife (one of Thomas Grover's girls, and one of his 52 children) to Snake River, about 25 miles ...
[Notes from the Miscellaneous Record Book, 1886-1906: Selected diary notes from the journal books of Marriner Wood Merrill, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
135 years ago today - Apr 22, 1885
[J.D.T. McAllister Diary]
Bore testimony to wives and children
A.M. wrote to my families in Salt Lake wives and Children. bore my testimony to God's great work including the Order of the Priesthood Celestial Marriage. or plurality of wives.
[Diary Excerpts of J.D.T. McAllister, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
Bore testimony to wives and children
A.M. wrote to my families in Salt Lake wives and Children. bore my testimony to God's great work including the Order of the Priesthood Celestial Marriage. or plurality of wives.
[Diary Excerpts of J.D.T. McAllister, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
140 years ago today - Apr 22, 1880
Bro[ther] [Wilford] Woodruff's revelation was read and considered, but no action was take in relation to it.
[Joseph F. Smith, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
[Joseph F. Smith, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
145 years ago today - Apr 22, 1875
Future apostle John Henry Smith writes in his missionary journal, " When I got up this morning I found that Sister Ellen Drybury had went to work and washed out my stockings and got them dry for me. It is the first time one of the sisters had been so thoughtfull, and I shall ever remember her thoughtfullness as my stockings were very nasty."
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
175 years ago today - Apr 22, 1845
[Heber C. Kimball]
At 10 Oclock the Council of Fifty met in the Seventies Hall. Brother Joseph Tomson gave me one dollar in cash as a Token of his love to me.
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
At 10 Oclock the Council of Fifty met in the Seventies Hall. Brother Joseph Tomson gave me one dollar in cash as a Token of his love to me.
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
75 years ago today - Apr 21, 1945
The Church News reports that due to a ward's lack of deacon-age boys, the bishop has called young girls (ages 12 to 14) to do the work of deacons such as collecting fast offerings.
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database ( http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase )]]
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database ( http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase )]]
80 years ago today - Apr 21, 1940
Captain William Losey is killed by a bomb during the Nazi invasion of Norway, the first U.S. serviceman to die in World War II. A returned LDS missionary, he is a military aide to the U.S. ambassador. Despite his and other American deaths in the Nazi war zone, the United States remains officially neutral until Dec. 1941.
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database ( http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase )]]
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database ( http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase )]]
130 years ago today - Apr 21, 1890
[Brigham Young Jr.]
Appointment to meet heirs Father's [i.e., Brigham Young's] Estate at Pres[iden]t office. Bro[ther]. Geo[rge]. C[annon]. felt I ought to be the[re] so I crossed the street at 1 p.m. Number of people saw me. Meeting with 17 of 29 heirs was satisfactory. Voted for Trustees to settle up estate. Committee of Seven of heirs or representatives were appointed to devise a wayto close up the Estate and provide liberally for the widows. Adjourned sine die. ... Drove to Bro[ther] [George Q.] Cannon's farm in evening. Very dark, roads muddy but safe from enemies. Talked with Bro[ther]. C[annon]. about estate, we are united in our opinion that it should be settled up as soon as practicable. I think some of those heirs who have been settled with are becoming very hungry for money and look with longing eyes upon the fat the estate has gathered in the last 12 years.
[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]
Appointment to meet heirs Father's [i.e., Brigham Young's] Estate at Pres[iden]t office. Bro[ther]. Geo[rge]. C[annon]. felt I ought to be the[re] so I crossed the street at 1 p.m. Number of people saw me. Meeting with 17 of 29 heirs was satisfactory. Voted for Trustees to settle up estate. Committee of Seven of heirs or representatives were appointed to devise a wayto close up the Estate and provide liberally for the widows. Adjourned sine die. ... Drove to Bro[ther] [George Q.] Cannon's farm in evening. Very dark, roads muddy but safe from enemies. Talked with Bro[ther]. C[annon]. about estate, we are united in our opinion that it should be settled up as soon as practicable. I think some of those heirs who have been settled with are becoming very hungry for money and look with longing eyes upon the fat the estate has gathered in the last 12 years.
[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]
160 years ago today - Apr 21, 1860
[Wilford Woodruff]
I also learned that Thomas Williams & Permanic Jackman while on the way to Calafornia was murdered by the Indians. They were shot by arrors. Thus was Ended the life of the Thomas Williams who has apostitized from the Church and became an Enemy to the Saints. His [He] has received his reward.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
I also learned that Thomas Williams & Permanic Jackman while on the way to Calafornia was murdered by the Indians. They were shot by arrors. Thus was Ended the life of the Thomas Williams who has apostitized from the Church and became an Enemy to the Saints. His [He] has received his reward.
[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 - Apr 21, 1845
[Nauvoo Temple]
At 3 p.m. William Player placed the first star stone in the frieze of the entablature at the southeast corner, "the 'stars' will add much to the beauty of the Temple." The southeast corner was called "Joseph's corner."
[Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple]
At 3 p.m. William Player placed the first star stone in the frieze of the entablature at the southeast corner, "the 'stars' will add much to the beauty of the Temple." The southeast corner was called "Joseph's corner."
[Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple]
180 years ago today - Apr 21, 1840
U.S. Post Office Department designation for Commerce, Illinois is changed to Nauvoo, "a Hebrew term signifying a beautiful place." Although credit for the inventive name is usually given to Joseph Smith, contemporaries attribute it to George W. Robinson, Robinson, appointed Nauvoo's first postmaster, had studied under Kirtland's Jewish tutor Joshua Seixas and was "quite a Hebrew scholar."
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
55 years ago today - Apr 20, 1965
A Birch student-spy had been involved in the 1965 monitoring of BYU Professor Richard Poll, had publicly accused Poll of having a Communist subversive speak to his classes.
[E. Eugene Bryce, "Campus Speaker Affiliated With Subversive Groupings," Provo Daily Herald, 20 Apr. 1965, 10. 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.]
[E. Eugene Bryce, "Campus Speaker Affiliated With Subversive Groupings," Provo Daily Herald, 20 Apr. 1965, 10. 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.]
55 years ago today - Apr 20, 1965
Upon receipt of your letter of April 14 [1965], I took the first opportunity which was presented to submit the matter of reinstating your father [i.e., excommunicated apostle John W. Taylor], and President [David O.] McKay asked if you intend to be in this area soon. He stated if you are he would be very glad to see you and discuss this whole matter with you.
It is my opinion that President McKay is very sympathetic to your father's situation, but he did want to talk with you a bit with respect to it. The first time you are in the city perhaps you will wish to call on him. Let me be helpful if I can. Greetings and best wishes always.
[Hugh B. Brown, Letter to Samuel W. Taylor, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
It is my opinion that President McKay is very sympathetic to your father's situation, but he did want to talk with you a bit with respect to it. The first time you are in the city perhaps you will wish to call on him. Let me be helpful if I can. Greetings and best wishes always.
[Hugh B. Brown, Letter to Samuel W. Taylor, 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]
70 years ago today - Apr 20, 1950
8:30 a.m.'Judge Nephi Jensen was the next visitor to the office. He had previously written asking for an appointment. He wanted to know why his article on 'Grace' has not been printed. He has been notified that it was submitted to Joseph Fielding Smith. Judge Jensen cannot understand why that article, which is the product of 20 years of study, should not be printed.
[David O. McKay, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
[David O. McKay, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
70 years ago today - Apr 20, 1950
[Spencer W. Kimball]
... then I was administered to by Pres. Clark Elder Lee and Elder Moyle. It was a marvelous blessing and they visited quite a while consoling me and building up my faith. I have had a trying week and in fact a trying month. Facing the possible cancer of my vocal cords was not a happy outlook.
[Spencer W. Kimball 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]
... then I was administered to by Pres. Clark Elder Lee and Elder Moyle. It was a marvelous blessing and they visited quite a while consoling me and building up my faith. I have had a trying week and in fact a trying month. Facing the possible cancer of my vocal cords was not a happy outlook.
[Spencer W. Kimball 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]
70 years ago today - Apr 20, 1950
[David O. McKay]
8:30 a.m.'Judge Nephi Jensen was the next visitor to the office. He had previously written asking for an appointment. He wanted to know why his article on 'Grace' has not been printed. He has been notified that it was submitted to Joseph Fielding Smith. Judge Jensen cannot understand why that article, which is the product of 20 years of study, should not be printed.
[David O. McKay Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
8:30 a.m.'Judge Nephi Jensen was the next visitor to the office. He had previously written asking for an appointment. He wanted to know why his article on 'Grace' has not been printed. He has been notified that it was submitted to Joseph Fielding Smith. Judge Jensen cannot understand why that article, which is the product of 20 years of study, should not be printed.
[David O. McKay Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
85 years ago today - Apr 20, 1935
[Heber J. Grant]
President Harold B. Lee of Pioneer Stake called. Brother McKay and I had a long talk with him regarding proposed plans for Church relief, outlined by President J. Reuben Clark, Jr. something over a year ago. He expressed his perfect faith that the plan should be carried out and our people taken care of by going back to the old system of taking tithes in kind and building warehouses to take care of surplus crops in one section and moving them to another.
[On April 18 of the following year, Lee is called to preside over the Church Security Program (renamed Church Welfare Program in 1938). Initially devised to help members who had been impoverished by the Great Depression, the Church Welfare Program is declared a permanent undertaking of the church on April 5, 1949.]
[Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies; http://www.heraldextra.com/content/view/282148/]
President Harold B. Lee of Pioneer Stake called. Brother McKay and I had a long talk with him regarding proposed plans for Church relief, outlined by President J. Reuben Clark, Jr. something over a year ago. He expressed his perfect faith that the plan should be carried out and our people taken care of by going back to the old system of taking tithes in kind and building warehouses to take care of surplus crops in one section and moving them to another.
[On April 18 of the following year, Lee is called to preside over the Church Security Program (renamed Church Welfare Program in 1938). Initially devised to help members who had been impoverished by the Great Depression, the Church Welfare Program is declared a permanent undertaking of the church on April 5, 1949.]
[Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies; http://www.heraldextra.com/content/view/282148/]
125 years ago today - Apr 20, 1895
[Wilford Woodruff]
While discussing the subjet the spirit of the Lord rested upon us & Designated Edward Partridge as President [of a Stake] & David John as first & Reed Smoot as second Councillors so we Settled upon that as we were all united upon that.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
While discussing the subjet the spirit of the Lord rested upon us & Designated Edward Partridge as President [of a Stake] & David John as first & Reed Smoot as second Councillors so we Settled upon that as we were all united upon that.
[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 - Apr 20, 1895
[Francis M. Lyman]
GQC [George Q. Cannon] said chief cause of apostasy was speaking against Lord's annointed, then adultery and fornication
[Excerpts of Apostle Francis M. Lyman Diaries, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
GQC [George Q. Cannon] said chief cause of apostasy was speaking against Lord's annointed, then adultery and fornication
[Excerpts of Apostle Francis M. Lyman Diaries, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
140 years ago today - Tuesday, Apr 20, 1880
[Franklin D. Richards]
Had lengthy conversation with Prest. [John] Taylor on various subjects. Learned the Key word of the K[ingdom].
[Franklin D. Richards journal, as quoted in Jedediah S. Rogers (editor), The Council of Fifty: A Documentary History, Signature Books (2014)]
Had lengthy conversation with Prest. [John] Taylor on various subjects. Learned the Key word of the K[ingdom].
[Franklin D. Richards journal, as quoted in Jedediah S. Rogers (editor), The Council of Fifty: A Documentary History, Signature Books (2014)]
175 years ago today - Apr 20, 1845
[Brigham Young]
... I thought I would speak upon the principle of becoming a God - is simply to be in possession of a kingdom and that makes him an Almighty man to that kingdom as Joseph said it is written in your scriptures '"to whom the word of God came - they were Gods'" - when a man is in possession of the principles of revelation, who obtains knowledge more than any other being - it actually make a God of him - if you go to the heathen nations and find a man who has knowledge more than any one else - he is a God to them - there are a many Gods and when we get through from chief to chief of them we shall find there is one who is head of all - there are lords many and gods many but to us there is but one God - and that tabernacle can be but in one place at once, but the intelligence that fills that body can fill the immensity of space - Jesus was but in one place at a time - the character of God is the influence that is bestowed upon his subjects, and this is the Almighty God - if I had the influence. I could rule over all the people as an Almighty being - our Savior can come and rule as king of nations as he now is king of saints ... Gentile blood is rebellious blood - it was in Cain, and the translators have translated rebellious blood Gentile blood- ... - every man that does not come up to the help of the Lord will be handed over to Satan and he will sift them - if this church is able to arise without being whipped and mashed it will not be five years before the rich men of the world will want to lodge their money in the hands of our bishops and it will be the greatest safety fund in the world - ... - I say it in the name of Israel's God - hang up your fiddle - let it be burnt up and give your Bishopric to another you will be cursed, in your goods, your cattle, your clothes shall be moth eaten - and you shall be cursed if you wont do your duty - when you have done your plowing and planting - put your horses and your teams to work at the temple and the Nauvoo House - and you shall be blessed.
[The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
... I thought I would speak upon the principle of becoming a God - is simply to be in possession of a kingdom and that makes him an Almighty man to that kingdom as Joseph said it is written in your scriptures '"to whom the word of God came - they were Gods'" - when a man is in possession of the principles of revelation, who obtains knowledge more than any other being - it actually make a God of him - if you go to the heathen nations and find a man who has knowledge more than any one else - he is a God to them - there are a many Gods and when we get through from chief to chief of them we shall find there is one who is head of all - there are lords many and gods many but to us there is but one God - and that tabernacle can be but in one place at once, but the intelligence that fills that body can fill the immensity of space - Jesus was but in one place at a time - the character of God is the influence that is bestowed upon his subjects, and this is the Almighty God - if I had the influence. I could rule over all the people as an Almighty being - our Savior can come and rule as king of nations as he now is king of saints ... Gentile blood is rebellious blood - it was in Cain, and the translators have translated rebellious blood Gentile blood- ... - every man that does not come up to the help of the Lord will be handed over to Satan and he will sift them - if this church is able to arise without being whipped and mashed it will not be five years before the rich men of the world will want to lodge their money in the hands of our bishops and it will be the greatest safety fund in the world - ... - I say it in the name of Israel's God - hang up your fiddle - let it be burnt up and give your Bishopric to another you will be cursed, in your goods, your cattle, your clothes shall be moth eaten - and you shall be cursed if you wont do your duty - when you have done your plowing and planting - put your horses and your teams to work at the temple and the Nauvoo House - and you shall be blessed.
[The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
35 years ago today - Apr 19, 1985
Elder Bruce R. McConkie dies.
[Wikipedia, 20th Century (Mormonism), http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century_(Mormonism)]
[Wikipedia, 20th Century (Mormonism), http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century_(Mormonism)]
105 years ago today - Apr 19, 1915; Monday
[James E. Talmage]
Finished the actual writing on the book "Jesus the Christ", to which I have devoted every spare hour since settling down to the work of composition on September 14th last. Had it not been that I was privileged to do this work in the Temple it would be at present far from completion. I have felt the inspiration of the place and have appreciated the privacy and quiteness incident thereto. I hope to proceed with the work of revision without delay.
[James E. Talmage, Diary]
Finished the actual writing on the book "Jesus the Christ", to which I have devoted every spare hour since settling down to the work of composition on September 14th last. Had it not been that I was privileged to do this work in the Temple it would be at present far from completion. I have felt the inspiration of the place and have appreciated the privacy and quiteness incident thereto. I hope to proceed with the work of revision without delay.
[James E. Talmage, Diary]
155 years ago today - Apr 19, 1865
[Wilford Woodruff]
19 {AL} This is the day Set apart by the Nation for the funeral Seremonies of Abram Lincoln in all the States & Territories. A Large Assembly met at the Tabernacle at 12 oclock of all Classes Civil & Military Jew & Gentile. Elder F. D. Richards made the opening prayer. Elder A Lyman Delivered an address of about 30 minutes. Then Rev Norman M.C. Leod delivered an Eulogy upon President Abram Lincoln. W. Woodruff delivered the benediction at the Close I called at Presidets Youngs office.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
19 {AL} This is the day Set apart by the Nation for the funeral Seremonies of Abram Lincoln in all the States & Territories. A Large Assembly met at the Tabernacle at 12 oclock of all Classes Civil & Military Jew & Gentile. Elder F. D. Richards made the opening prayer. Elder A Lyman Delivered an address of about 30 minutes. Then Rev Norman M.C. Leod delivered an Eulogy upon President Abram Lincoln. W. Woodruff delivered the benediction at the Close I called at Presidets Youngs office.
[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 - Apr 19, 1840. Sunday.
[William Clayton]
Had conversation with Mary Darrah. She says she cannot believe the testimony. She has long seen baptism to be a duty. She asked if God was no respecter of persons why had he not sent an angel sooner &c.
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]
Had conversation with Mary Darrah. She says she cannot believe the testimony. She has long seen baptism to be a duty. She asked if God was no respecter of persons why had he not sent an angel sooner &c.
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]
190 years ago today - Circa Apr 19, 1830
Willard Chase asks Hyrum Smith to return the seer stone. Martin Harris is present. Chase says that Hyrum was indignant and shook his fist at him . On 19 April 1830, Abner Cole published a note, perhaps written by Chase, warning Hyrum "not to be quite so impertinent, when decent folks denounce the imposition of the `Gold Bible'".
[Vogel, Dan, Early Mormon Documents, Appendix B: Chronology, 1771-1831, http://amzn.to/T5nY8w]
[Vogel, Dan, Early Mormon Documents, Appendix B: Chronology, 1771-1831, http://amzn.to/T5nY8w]
40 years ago today - 40 years ago - April 18 1980
Governing Board of LDS Church, including Prophet Kimball, meets with Mark Hoffman to scrutinize what turned out to be a forged Anthon Script.
[Chronology of Mormon History (Mormon Stories), http://www.mormonstories.org/truth-claims/chronology-of-mormon-history/]
[Chronology of Mormon History (Mormon Stories), http://www.mormonstories.org/truth-claims/chronology-of-mormon-history/]
90 years ago today - 90 years ago - Apr 18, 1930
[Heber J. Grant]
I spent many evenings until a late hour at Capt. [John] Codman's home. ... Upon one occasion he told me: 'I feel sure you are going to get statehood, Mr. Grant. I crossed the ocean coming home from my last European trip, with Frances Folsom. She was coming from Europe to marry Grover Cleveland.'| He said: '1/2She is one of the most beautiful talented ladies I have ever met'beautiful in face and form. We were joint editors of a manuscript paper on the steamer crossing the ocean. I told her of the Mormon people, how they were misunderstood, and that they are entitled to Statehood; and she promised me that if she had any influence with her husband she would see that Utah got statehood.'| He felt absolutely certain that no old bachelor who married such a beautiful, talented, and intelligent woman as Frances Folsom could refuse her anything. I never learned whether Frances had anything to do with our getting statehood but we did get it while Grover Cleveland was in the Presidential chair of the United States.
[The Diaries of Heber J. Grant, 1880-1945, Abridged, Digital Edition Salt Lake City, Utah, 2015]
I spent many evenings until a late hour at Capt. [John] Codman's home. ... Upon one occasion he told me: 'I feel sure you are going to get statehood, Mr. Grant. I crossed the ocean coming home from my last European trip, with Frances Folsom. She was coming from Europe to marry Grover Cleveland.'| He said: '1/2She is one of the most beautiful talented ladies I have ever met'beautiful in face and form. We were joint editors of a manuscript paper on the steamer crossing the ocean. I told her of the Mormon people, how they were misunderstood, and that they are entitled to Statehood; and she promised me that if she had any influence with her husband she would see that Utah got statehood.'| He felt absolutely certain that no old bachelor who married such a beautiful, talented, and intelligent woman as Frances Folsom could refuse her anything. I never learned whether Frances had anything to do with our getting statehood but we did get it while Grover Cleveland was in the Presidential chair of the United States.
[The Diaries of Heber J. Grant, 1880-1945, Abridged, Digital Edition Salt Lake City, Utah, 2015]
130 years ago today - 130 years ago - Apr 18, 1890
[Brigham Young Jr.]
Pres[ident]s. [George Q.] Cannon & [Joseph F.] Smith instructed me privately and detailed an entire change of base in land matters advising brethren, when offered great prices to sell their places get part town and take trust deeds for balance. Pres[iden]t C[annon]. remarked that since their determination on this point the 'Boom' has waned.
[Brigham Young Jr., Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
Pres[ident]s. [George Q.] Cannon & [Joseph F.] Smith instructed me privately and detailed an entire change of base in land matters advising brethren, when offered great prices to sell their places get part town and take trust deeds for balance. Pres[iden]t C[annon]. remarked that since their determination on this point the 'Boom' has waned.
[Brigham Young Jr., 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 - Apr 18, 1880
Apostle Joseph F. Smith writes of his belief that the Great Pyramid's measurements predict future events.
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database ( http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase )]]
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database ( http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase )]]
110 years ago today - Apr 18, 1910
[Joseph Fielding Smith]
I spent the afternoon at the Historians Office and learned that early this morning an attempt was made by dynamiters to blow up the steel work of the Utah Hotel; great damage was done and the windows in the neighborhood were broken. This is the second attempt of this kind.
[Joseph Fielding Smith Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
I spent the afternoon at the Historians Office and learned that early this morning an attempt was made by dynamiters to blow up the steel work of the Utah Hotel; great damage was done and the windows in the neighborhood were broken. This is the second attempt of this kind.
[Joseph Fielding Smith Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
115 years ago today - Apr 18, 1905
President Joseph F. Smith and eight of his sons sit in his official box at the Salt Lake theatre to watch a prize fight that lasts for "twenty gory rounds."
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
125 years ago today - Apr 18, 1895
[Brigham Young Jr.]
Pres[iden]t. [George Q.] Cannon M[outh at the altar]. I was much affected during his prayer, my heart melted within me. ... George & I had a pleasant chat on doctrine of marriage etc. His views are peculiar, but I know the responsibility of this whole question rests upon him, and how can he meet the demands? Rulers in this nation will have a heavy bill to settle when they reach the spirit world.
[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]
Pres[iden]t. [George Q.] Cannon M[outh at the altar]. I was much affected during his prayer, my heart melted within me. ... George & I had a pleasant chat on doctrine of marriage etc. His views are peculiar, but I know the responsibility of this whole question rests upon him, and how can he meet the demands? Rulers in this nation will have a heavy bill to settle when they reach the spirit world.
[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 - Apr 18, 1855
Deseret News uses the word "sodomy" for the first time quoting an account of Elder Nathanial Vary Jones, a returned missionary who served in Burma, near India. The missionary says (incorrectly) that "150 years ago" India was on the verge of becoming "extinct" because a "national evil" prevailed which was "the crime of sodomy." The missionary said the reigning Indian king and queen decreed all women must wear a sari in order to "reclaim the men" and save the country from homosexuality.
[Timeline of Mormon Thinking About Homosexuality, http://rationalfaiths.com/timeline-of-mormon-thinking-about-homosexuality/]
[Timeline of Mormon Thinking About Homosexuality, http://rationalfaiths.com/timeline-of-mormon-thinking-about-homosexuality/]
190 years ago today - Apr 18, 1830 (Sunday)
Late in April the Prophet Joseph visited Joseph Knight, at Colesville, Broome Co., N. Y., where, under the Prophet's administration, the first miracle was wrought in this dispensation, viz: casting out devils.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
85 years ago today - Apr 17, 1935
[Heber J. Grant]
I regret that so many young people seem to be determined not to dress modestly; I would be happy if it were otherwise.
[Heber J. Grant, Letter to Rachel Stromberg, 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]
I regret that so many young people seem to be determined not to dress modestly; I would be happy if it were otherwise.
[Heber J. Grant, Letter to Rachel Stromberg, 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 - Apr 17, 1900
Brigham Young Academy president Benjamin Cluff Jr. along with a company of two teachers and about twenty students leave Provo expecting to be gone for two years. Their destination is South America where they hope to locate rivers, cities, and places that would "throw light on the divine claims of the Book of Mormon." When the expedition reaches Spanish Fork they are received with a Brass Band and a Banquet in their honor. They are received with so many banquets that they don't cook their own food until eleven days into the journey. At the Mexican Border Cluff negotiates with border officials to allow passage through Mexico while the rest of the group boards with church members in Thatcher, Arizona. Cluff lingers in Mexico hoping to marry a polygamous third wife, Florence Reynolds, daughter of George Reynolds, and one of his former students. Florence had been using his last name for the previous year. While Cluff is in Colonia Diaz, he orders other expedition members to begin proselyting in Thatcher. The students discover why Cluff had prolonged his stay and became disheartened and angry. His assistant, Professor Walter Wolfe, reacts to the news of Cluff's delay by escaping to Nogales for an "extended three-day alcoholic spree." Wolfe (who had been told in a dream that he would find gold plates on the expedition and be able to translate them) later sells his mule to buy liquor. The students determine not to do any more missionary work and "took every opportunity to visit with the young ladies and to attend the weekly dances" in Thatcher. Apostle Heber J. Grant learns of the expedition's behavior while traveling in Arizona. He informs President Lorenzo Snow who sends Second Councilor Joseph F. Smith. Smith authorizes Cluff's plural marriage but instructs the group to either disband or proceed on their own as a "purely scientific" group without church endorsement. Most return to Provo but Cluff and five others press on to Columbia. A week after arriving, all but one student, Chester Van Buren, return to Utah. Van Buren remains in Colombia long enough to conduct scientific investigations. When he finally returns to Provo, his wildlife specimens become a prized collection. Cluff is censured by the Board of Trustees for "unwarranted use of authority" and is kept as Brigham Young Academy's president for only one more year. One of his last official acts is to change the name to "Brigham Young University."
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
130 years ago today - Apr 17, 1890
[First Presidency Office Journal]
Our quorum is not exempt from the division we find among the people Tho' I believe a peace is established at present. Strong feeling about shares in Bullion Beck silver mine. So far the [John] Taylor faction have fumbled themselves when it came to the test.
[First Presidency Office Journal, 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]
Our quorum is not exempt from the division we find among the people Tho' I believe a peace is established at present. Strong feeling about shares in Bullion Beck silver mine. So far the [John] Taylor faction have fumbled themselves when it came to the test.
[First Presidency Office Journal, 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]
150 years ago today - Apr 17, 1870
[Brigham Young]
The world may in vain ask the question, '"Who are we?'" But the Gospel tells us that we are the sons and daughters of that God whom we serve. Some say, '"We are the children of Adam and Eve.'" So we are, and they are the children of our Heavenly Father. We are all the children of Adam and Eve, and they and we are the offspring of Him who dwells in the heavens, the highest Intelligence that dwells anywhere that we have any knowledge of. Here we find ourselves, and when infants, the most helpless, and needing the most care and attention of any creatures that come into being on the face of the earth.
...Talk about polygamy! There is no true philosopher on the face of the earth but what will admit that such a system, properly carried out according to the order of heaven, is far superior to monogamy for the raising of healthy, robust children! A person possessing a moderate knowledge of physiology, or who has paid attention to his own nature and the nature of the gentler sex, can readily understand this. ...
[The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
The world may in vain ask the question, '"Who are we?'" But the Gospel tells us that we are the sons and daughters of that God whom we serve. Some say, '"We are the children of Adam and Eve.'" So we are, and they are the children of our Heavenly Father. We are all the children of Adam and Eve, and they and we are the offspring of Him who dwells in the heavens, the highest Intelligence that dwells anywhere that we have any knowledge of. Here we find ourselves, and when infants, the most helpless, and needing the most care and attention of any creatures that come into being on the face of the earth.
...Talk about polygamy! There is no true philosopher on the face of the earth but what will admit that such a system, properly carried out according to the order of heaven, is far superior to monogamy for the raising of healthy, robust children! A person possessing a moderate knowledge of physiology, or who has paid attention to his own nature and the nature of the gentler sex, can readily understand this. ...
[The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
175 years ago today - Apr 17, 1845
[Patriarchal blessing of Sarah Griffith Richards by John Smith]
... The destroyer shall have no power in thy habitation. The number of thy years shall be according to thy faith, ever to enjoy every blessing which you desire, & marvellous things shall be revealed unto thee in visions of the night. Thou shalt see the day when thou shalt have men & maid serv[ants] to do thy business. I seal all these blessings upon thee in common with thy companion & I seal thee up to Eternal life. Amen.
... The destroyer shall have no power in thy habitation. The number of thy years shall be according to thy faith, ever to enjoy every blessing which you desire, & marvellous things shall be revealed unto thee in visions of the night. Thou shalt see the day when thou shalt have men & maid serv[ants] to do thy business. I seal all these blessings upon thee in common with thy companion & I seal thee up to Eternal life. Amen.
180 years ago today - Apr 17, 1840
[Wilford Woodruff]
This being good friday the quorum of the Twelve met at penworthham to visit the Saints & spend the day together. Before we parted Sister Moon opened a bottle of wine for us to bless & partake of which she had kept for 40 years. After spending the day conversing about the things of the Kingdom of God we returned to preston & spent the night.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
This being good friday the quorum of the Twelve met at penworthham to visit the Saints & spend the day together. Before we parted Sister Moon opened a bottle of wine for us to bless & partake of which she had kept for 40 years. After spending the day conversing about the things of the Kingdom of God we returned to preston & spent the night.
[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 - Apr 17, 1840
[Brigham Young]
frida spent at Father Moones drank of wine that was made in the year eighteen hundred making it 40 years old
[Brigham Young Journal (1801-1877) Journal #2 July, 1837- Mar. 1845]
frida spent at Father Moones drank of wine that was made in the year eighteen hundred making it 40 years old
[Brigham Young Journal (1801-1877) Journal #2 July, 1837- Mar. 1845]
175 years ago today - 16 April 1845
[Nauvoo Neighbor]
NOTICE.
BY the counsel of the Twelve, Mrs. Hyrum Smith and Mrs. Thompson request all those sisters who have received papers to collect the penny subscription, to forward them as soon as possible that they may be able to ascertain whether all those employed as collectors have been faithful: as it appears that there is suspicion resting upon a certain individual of having kept the money which she had collected.¿They would say for the satisfaction of the sisters that about one thousand dollars have been received, and most of the sisters with whom they have conversed, seem inclined to continue paying their cent a week until the temple is finished; and money being wanted to purchase other things besides glass and nails, they invite all those who are able and feel so disposed to pay up for the present year; and as there are some poor sisters who are extremely anxious to throw in their mite who cannot possibly raise money, they would say that any kind of useful articles will be received from such.
MARY SMITH.
MERCY R. THOMPSON.
April 1845¿bp
['Notice.' Nauvoo Neighbor, 16 April 1845, 3/4 (provided by Joe johnstun).]
NOTICE.
BY the counsel of the Twelve, Mrs. Hyrum Smith and Mrs. Thompson request all those sisters who have received papers to collect the penny subscription, to forward them as soon as possible that they may be able to ascertain whether all those employed as collectors have been faithful: as it appears that there is suspicion resting upon a certain individual of having kept the money which she had collected.¿They would say for the satisfaction of the sisters that about one thousand dollars have been received, and most of the sisters with whom they have conversed, seem inclined to continue paying their cent a week until the temple is finished; and money being wanted to purchase other things besides glass and nails, they invite all those who are able and feel so disposed to pay up for the present year; and as there are some poor sisters who are extremely anxious to throw in their mite who cannot possibly raise money, they would say that any kind of useful articles will be received from such.
MARY SMITH.
MERCY R. THOMPSON.
April 1845¿bp
['Notice.' Nauvoo Neighbor, 16 April 1845, 3/4 (provided by Joe johnstun).]
15 years ago today - APRIL 16, 2005
Winston Blackmore holds a polygamy summit in Creston, British Columbia and invites Attorneys General from Idaho and British Columbia. They don't attend.
Winston appears to offer his followers more freedom. Fifteen of Winston's plural wives attend a conference in Winnipeg that focuses on sexual abuse in closed communities.
The wives make national news by urging the federal government to raise the age of sexual consent to 16 from 14.
[Gartner, Hana, Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, Timeline: History of Polygamy, cached at http://www.icsahome.com/view_document1_nonicsa.asp?ID=6890]
Winston appears to offer his followers more freedom. Fifteen of Winston's plural wives attend a conference in Winnipeg that focuses on sexual abuse in closed communities.
The wives make national news by urging the federal government to raise the age of sexual consent to 16 from 14.
[Gartner, Hana, Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, Timeline: History of Polygamy, cached at http://www.icsahome.com/view_document1_nonicsa.asp?ID=6890]
35 years ago today - Apr 16, 1985
[Mark Hofmann]
Letter of David and Peter Whitmer to Bethell Todd (dated 12 August 1828) sold to LDS church for $1,500 by Hofmann.
[Whittaker, David J., The Hofmann Maze, A Book Review Essay with a Chronology and Bibliography of the Hofmann Case, BYU Studies Vol. 29, No. 1, pg.80,]
Letter of David and Peter Whitmer to Bethell Todd (dated 12 August 1828) sold to LDS church for $1,500 by Hofmann.
[Whittaker, David J., The Hofmann Maze, A Book Review Essay with a Chronology and Bibliography of the Hofmann Case, BYU Studies Vol. 29, No. 1, pg.80,]
40 years ago today - Apr 16, 1980
Newlywed (married seven months) Dori Hofmann comes home from work to find her husband Mark looking through the pages of a seventeenth-century Cambridge Bible. She watches Mark separate two pages which are glued together and observes an old folded paper between the pages. Mark succeeds in getting the paper out of the Bible, but the glue along its edges hold it closed. By peeking inside they can see writing and a signature that seems to read "Joseph Smith, Jr." This is Mark Hoffman's "Anthon Transcript" forgery-his first major forgery of fake LDS documents.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
160 years ago today - Apr 16, 1860
L[orenzo] Snow called in and enquired in the course of conversation if he thought the emigration would meet with any hindrances from the US. The President [Brigham Young] said he did not, and expected the U[nited] States would burst up in five years. Conversation changed to the subject of polygamy and the Pres[ident] remarked the very women that object to a plurality wives would not object to a plurality of husbands. Pres[ident] Buchanan has five mistresses learn and they have illegitimate children by them. -- Salt Lake City
[Brigham Young Office Journals, quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
[Brigham Young Office Journals, quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
180 years ago today - Apr 16, 1840
During a two-day conference, Church leaders and members in the British Isles vote to publish the Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star, a monthly periodical in pamphlet form that would continue to be published until 1970.
190 years ago today - Apr 16, 1830
D&C 22: All ordinances are done away, all must be baptized into the church.
[Kenney, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://web.archive.org/web/20120805163534/saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml]
[Kenney, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://web.archive.org/web/20120805163534/saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml]
65 years ago today - ca. Apr 15, 1955
[First Presidency to Disney Studios]
Dear Mr. __________: With some awareness of what we are asking, we are, nevertheless, persuaded to write to you as pertaining to the possibility of your permitting us to purchase some three minutes of footage from Fantasia: specifically that part from the third reel which has to do with ^portrays^ the emergence of a nebula out of the darkness of unorganized matter to the appearance of the round earth in the firmament. This footage, if the favor were granted, would be reduced to 16 millimeter film and would be accompanied by a brief citation of some scripture and other spoken lines descriptive of how the Lord God brought the earth into being. ... To begin with, our contemplated use would be without music, and would therefore, without any of ^avoid^ the "Ascap" or Tetrille ^A[merican] F[ederation] of L[abor],^ complications. Our use would further be for a strictly limited group of our own Church members only, for instructional purposes, and the footage would never be shown publicly. All copyright and other protective assurances that we could give you as concerning our respect for your granting this permission would be observed. Again we say, we think we know something of the magnitude of the favor we are asking, but were much impressed by this sequence, and have never seen anything of the kind done so well, and we know of no possible ^feasible^ way of duplicating it or approaching it ourselves. Time is a pressing element with us in this hoped for use, and if you look upon this request with favor, we should be most pleased to send you one of our appointed representatives to meet with you at your convenience to arrange such documentary assurances and considerations as the circumstances suggest. Thank you for your consideration of this request. * P.S. Some years ago you graciously accommodated us with permission to use a minute or two of footage from ["]the Grasshop[p]er and the Ant["] for a Church Welfare film, which we were making at the time. We have not forgotten the magnitude of that favor and are grateful for it.
[LDS First Presidency to Disney Studios, undated draft, ca. Apr. 15, 1955 , typed excerpt in Buerger Papers as quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
Dear Mr. __________: With some awareness of what we are asking, we are, nevertheless, persuaded to write to you as pertaining to the possibility of your permitting us to purchase some three minutes of footage from Fantasia: specifically that part from the third reel which has to do with ^portrays^ the emergence of a nebula out of the darkness of unorganized matter to the appearance of the round earth in the firmament. This footage, if the favor were granted, would be reduced to 16 millimeter film and would be accompanied by a brief citation of some scripture and other spoken lines descriptive of how the Lord God brought the earth into being. ... To begin with, our contemplated use would be without music, and would therefore, without any of ^avoid^ the "Ascap" or Tetrille ^A[merican] F[ederation] of L[abor],^ complications. Our use would further be for a strictly limited group of our own Church members only, for instructional purposes, and the footage would never be shown publicly. All copyright and other protective assurances that we could give you as concerning our respect for your granting this permission would be observed. Again we say, we think we know something of the magnitude of the favor we are asking, but were much impressed by this sequence, and have never seen anything of the kind done so well, and we know of no possible ^feasible^ way of duplicating it or approaching it ourselves. Time is a pressing element with us in this hoped for use, and if you look upon this request with favor, we should be most pleased to send you one of our appointed representatives to meet with you at your convenience to arrange such documentary assurances and considerations as the circumstances suggest. Thank you for your consideration of this request. * P.S. Some years ago you graciously accommodated us with permission to use a minute or two of footage from ["]the Grasshop[p]er and the Ant["] for a Church Welfare film, which we were making at the time. We have not forgotten the magnitude of that favor and are grateful for it.
[LDS First Presidency to Disney Studios, undated draft, ca. Apr. 15, 1955 , typed excerpt in Buerger Papers as quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
155 years ago today - Apr 15, 1865
[Wilford Woodruff]
Presidet Lincoln Died 30 minuts past 8 oclok A.M. [on the 14th] & Secretary Seward a little After 9 oclok. One was Stabed 30 minuts after the other & died 30 minutes after. All the flags in Great Salt Lake City are at half mast & dressed in Crepe.
[All businesses were closed in Salt Lake]
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
Presidet Lincoln Died 30 minuts past 8 oclok A.M. [on the 14th] & Secretary Seward a little After 9 oclok. One was Stabed 30 minuts after the other & died 30 minutes after. All the flags in Great Salt Lake City are at half mast & dressed in Crepe.
[All businesses were closed in Salt Lake]
[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 - Apr 15, 1860
[Brigham Young]
The man who has been speaking to you is Almerin Grow. ... he says that he is willing to atone for his sins with his blood. He can spill it himself as soon as he pleases. He is a dangerous man. There is no knowing when he would take up an axe and split a wife's head and scatter her brains. A man that would take a kind, good wife's dresses from her trunk, and commit them to the flames, would just as soon knock her brains out with an axe. He Says that he is willing to do anything that he is asked to do to atone for his sins. ... He is a curiosity. If you should send him out in January over these mountains with nothing but a pair of breeches upon him he would not freeze. You might as well try to kill Lucifer. If you were to tap him, to fulfill his own wishes. I question whether he would bleed. ...
[Leonard J. Arrington Papers, Special Collections, Merrill-Cazier Library, Utah State University, Logan, quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
The man who has been speaking to you is Almerin Grow. ... he says that he is willing to atone for his sins with his blood. He can spill it himself as soon as he pleases. He is a dangerous man. There is no knowing when he would take up an axe and split a wife's head and scatter her brains. A man that would take a kind, good wife's dresses from her trunk, and commit them to the flames, would just as soon knock her brains out with an axe. He Says that he is willing to do anything that he is asked to do to atone for his sins. ... He is a curiosity. If you should send him out in January over these mountains with nothing but a pair of breeches upon him he would not freeze. You might as well try to kill Lucifer. If you were to tap him, to fulfill his own wishes. I question whether he would bleed. ...
[Leonard J. Arrington Papers, Special Collections, Merrill-Cazier Library, Utah State University, Logan, quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
165 years ago today - Apr 15, 1855 (Morning)
'-President Brigham Young'-Long life was desirable. We will all be rewarded according to our work. If we live 100, 150, or 200 years our works will be greater than if we lived but 50 years, and our reward will be great in proportion'- Spoke against indulging in the many luxuries which have been commonly in use. His appetite was simple, and he would stop going out visiting if the people did not stop cooking so for him. It had become quite a nuisance. -- SLC Tabernacle
[[Sermons and Writings of the Restoration. 4 Vols. Ogden Kraut, ed. Pioneer Press, 1994 as quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
[[Sermons and Writings of the Restoration. 4 Vols. Ogden Kraut, ed. Pioneer Press, 1994 as quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
175 years ago today - Apr 15, 1845, Tuesday
He [Thomas Ford] recommends us to go and establish an independent government in California
[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]
[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]
180 years ago today - Apr 15, 1840
[Wilford Woodruff]
[15th] At a general conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints held in the Temperance Hall Preston, Lancashire England; ...
Mooved by Er. H C. Kimble secd. by Er W. Richards that Elder Peter Melling be ordained an Evanjelical minister in preston....
I Willford Woodruff being led by the spirit visited Frooms Hill in Herefordshire England 5 miles North of Ledbury on the 5th day of March 1840 & commenced preaching the word of God unto the people & many received my testimony & I commenced Baptizing such as should be saved, & in one month & 5 days I Baptized Mr Thomas Kington the superintendant of the Church of the United Brethren which came out of the methodist connextion & I also Baptized forty Eight Preachers of the United Brethren & 112 of the members making 158 souls in all. ..
when I left this vast field of Labour to go to Preston to attend the conference their was nearly 200 souls ready to be baptized as soon as an opportunity offera ...
Mobs have arisen against me in some instances. On one occasion they stoned me while baptizing. ... I feel thankful to God for all his mercy & kindness unto me & all the Saints in opening so many doors that the kingdom of God may roll forth that there may be a people prepared for the coming of Jesus Christ...
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[15th] At a general conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints held in the Temperance Hall Preston, Lancashire England; ...
Mooved by Er. H C. Kimble secd. by Er W. Richards that Elder Peter Melling be ordained an Evanjelical minister in preston....
I Willford Woodruff being led by the spirit visited Frooms Hill in Herefordshire England 5 miles North of Ledbury on the 5th day of March 1840 & commenced preaching the word of God unto the people & many received my testimony & I commenced Baptizing such as should be saved, & in one month & 5 days I Baptized Mr Thomas Kington the superintendant of the Church of the United Brethren which came out of the methodist connextion & I also Baptized forty Eight Preachers of the United Brethren & 112 of the members making 158 souls in all. ..
when I left this vast field of Labour to go to Preston to attend the conference their was nearly 200 souls ready to be baptized as soon as an opportunity offera ...
Mobs have arisen against me in some instances. On one occasion they stoned me while baptizing. ... I feel thankful to God for all his mercy & kindness unto me & all the Saints in opening so many doors that the kingdom of God may roll forth that there may be a people prepared for the coming of Jesus Christ...
[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 - Apr 15, 1840
Joseph Smith sends Orson Hyde on a mission to dedicate Palestine for return of Jews. Hyde's wife Nancy becomes a plural wife of Joseph Smith in Orson's absence.
70 years ago today - Apr 14, 1950
[David O. McKay]
At 11:45 a.m., I called on President George Albert Smith at his home. He phoned earlier this morning and said that he had been sick all night''worried as well as sick.' Said he was worried especially regarding the appointment of the President for the B.Y.U. I then said that probably I should come up to see him, and he said, 'yes, I wish you would.' He then said that he had not talked to his son Albert, but had found out that his (Albert's) compensation is $15,000. Said with respect to the B.Y.U., 'it is a case of our calling him (Albert) on a mission to this position, and I am sure that there is no doubt he would respond.'
[David O. McKay Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
At 11:45 a.m., I called on President George Albert Smith at his home. He phoned earlier this morning and said that he had been sick all night''worried as well as sick.' Said he was worried especially regarding the appointment of the President for the B.Y.U. I then said that probably I should come up to see him, and he said, 'yes, I wish you would.' He then said that he had not talked to his son Albert, but had found out that his (Albert's) compensation is $15,000. Said with respect to the B.Y.U., 'it is a case of our calling him (Albert) on a mission to this position, and I am sure that there is no doubt he would respond.'
[David O. McKay Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
115 years ago today - Apr 14, 1905
Speaking at Brigham Young University, Mary Elizabeth Lightner, plural wife of Joseph Smith says, "I went forward and was sealed to him [Joseph Smith]. Brigham Young performed the sealing, and Heber C. Kimball the blessing. I know he [Joseph] had six wives and I have known some of them from childhood up. I knew he had three children. They told me. I think two are living today but they are not known as his children as they go by other names."
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
120 years ago today - Apr 14, 1900
Office of The First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Salt Lake City, Utah, April 14th, 1900.
Prest. David H. Cannon, St. George
DEAR BROTHER:
During the lifetime of the late President Wilford Woodruff a rule was established by him not to permit a woman to be anointed [2nd anointing] to a man unless she had lived with him as a wife. This was a restriction of the rule in such cases which obtained during the lifetime of Presidents Brigham Young and John Taylor. After considering the matter we have concluded to restore the practice as expressed in the following, and which will govern in such cases in the future:
Any woman, who has been sealed to a man in life or by proxy, whether she has lived with him or not, shall have the privilege of being anointed to him inasmuch as he shall have had his second blessings.
LORENZO SNOW, GEORGE Q. CANNON, JOSEPH F. SMITH.
[1890-April 14-Circular letter, Church Historian's Library, as quoted in Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
Salt Lake City, Utah, April 14th, 1900.
Prest. David H. Cannon, St. George
DEAR BROTHER:
During the lifetime of the late President Wilford Woodruff a rule was established by him not to permit a woman to be anointed [2nd anointing] to a man unless she had lived with him as a wife. This was a restriction of the rule in such cases which obtained during the lifetime of Presidents Brigham Young and John Taylor. After considering the matter we have concluded to restore the practice as expressed in the following, and which will govern in such cases in the future:
Any woman, who has been sealed to a man in life or by proxy, whether she has lived with him or not, shall have the privilege of being anointed to him inasmuch as he shall have had his second blessings.
LORENZO SNOW, GEORGE Q. CANNON, JOSEPH F. SMITH.
[1890-April 14-Circular letter, Church Historian's Library, as quoted in Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
165 years ago today - Apr 14, 1855
Brigham Young promised us that if we were faithful, we should be blessed of the Lord and should have the privilege of seeing one of the three Nephite Apostles'- President Young had promised us that the Lamanites would come to meet us and insist on us baptizing them'-(Lamanites came to out camp and were very friendly. Many fathers among them brought their daughters and desired us to marry them, but, no understanding the meaning of the term '"identify'" as used by President Young, he, knowing that if we should take this course, it would have the effect of uniting us and causing them to remain our friends. When they found we would not take their daughters, they departed'- Brother [Brigham] Young asked the president of the mission why we had not identified ourselves with Israel'-President Young replied that Brother Kimball says for you to go and get your wives from among daughters of these Lamanites, but I do not say for you to marry them, but I say for you to go and try, for I think the time is past, it is now too late.
[Pleasant Taylor Journal; Our Pioneer Heritage 7:144, 174-175 as quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
[Pleasant Taylor Journal; Our Pioneer Heritage 7:144, 174-175 as quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
165 years ago today - Apr 14, 1855
President Young ... elders, who realize their calling, would not be guilty of any overt act, etc. He was followed by Bros. Hyde, Snow, and Kimball, who spoke of the necessity of our forming the strong ties of matrimony with the Lamanites. President Young again spoke, confirmed remarks about matrimony, but said we should so live that we could be guided aright and not take to wife any that would be a disgrace to us, etc. ...
[Jacob Miller Journal; Our Pioneer Heritage 7:187 as quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
[Jacob Miller Journal; Our Pioneer Heritage 7:187 as quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
180 years ago today - --14 [April, 1840].
[Willard Richards journal]
"--With the Twelve in council at my room in Preston, I was ordained to the Apostleship by President Young, under the hands of the quorum present.
O my God, I ask thee to enable me to execute the duties of the office in righteousness unto the end, with my brethren the Twelve, that we may ever be of one heart and one mind in all things, and be saved with thee in thy kingdom, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen."
[Apostle Willard Richards Journal]
"--With the Twelve in council at my room in Preston, I was ordained to the Apostleship by President Young, under the hands of the quorum present.
O my God, I ask thee to enable me to execute the duties of the office in righteousness unto the end, with my brethren the Twelve, that we may ever be of one heart and one mind in all things, and be saved with thee in thy kingdom, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen."
[Apostle Willard Richards Journal]
180 years ago today - 1840: 14 April
[Patriarchal Blessing of Heber C. Kimball by Peter Melling]
... thou shalt push the people together from the ends of the earth. ... thou shalt have the gift of healing greater than thou hast hitherto had, even to the anointing and opening of the eyes of the blind in the name of Jesus Christ and also the deaf to hear and also rebuking of fevers and many more works shalt thou do, thou shalt see great slaughter and destruction of the enemies of the Lord, and when men will run to and fro in great amazement fear and consternation because of the mighty judgements of the Lord which will come upon the wicked and workers of iniquity, and when the earth will reel to and fro and stagger and when there will be great signs in the heavens, yea, and thou shalt also be standing upon the earth when the voice of the bridegroom shall be sounded forth and when the heavens will be unveiled, and when the son of Man will appear and when he will shine forth in his glory ... thou shalt see many great and glorious sights before the great winding up scene--
... thou shalt have power to rebuke the winds and the seas ... thou shall possess the land of Joseph for an everlasting possession ...
[Selected LDS Patriarchal Blessings, New Mormon Studies CD ROM, Signature Book, 2009, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
... thou shalt push the people together from the ends of the earth. ... thou shalt have the gift of healing greater than thou hast hitherto had, even to the anointing and opening of the eyes of the blind in the name of Jesus Christ and also the deaf to hear and also rebuking of fevers and many more works shalt thou do, thou shalt see great slaughter and destruction of the enemies of the Lord, and when men will run to and fro in great amazement fear and consternation because of the mighty judgements of the Lord which will come upon the wicked and workers of iniquity, and when the earth will reel to and fro and stagger and when there will be great signs in the heavens, yea, and thou shalt also be standing upon the earth when the voice of the bridegroom shall be sounded forth and when the heavens will be unveiled, and when the son of Man will appear and when he will shine forth in his glory ... thou shalt see many great and glorious sights before the great winding up scene--
... thou shalt have power to rebuke the winds and the seas ... thou shall possess the land of Joseph for an everlasting possession ...
[Selected LDS Patriarchal Blessings, New Mormon Studies CD ROM, Signature Book, 2009, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
180 years ago today - Apr 14, 1840
Willard Richards: Appointed apostle by written revelation 8 July 1838, ordained 14 Apr. 1840, but never sustained as a "prophet, seer, and revelator"
[Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 6, Biographical Sketches of General Officers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]
[Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 6, Biographical Sketches of General Officers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]
55 years ago today - Apr 13, 1965
Asked about Elder Benson's recent conference talk, Hugh B. Brown replied "tartly" to reporters that the apostle "speaks strictly for himself. My statement is the official Church position. It was personally approved by President McKay . . ."
["Benson Ties Rights Issue to Reds in Mormon Rift," Washington Post, 13 Apr. 1965, A-5. 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.]
["Benson Ties Rights Issue to Reds in Mormon Rift," Washington Post, 13 Apr. 1965, A-5. 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.]
120 years ago today - Apr 13, 1900
[Benjamin Cluff]
President [George Q.] Cannon came to Provo [Utah] and spoke to the members of my [Central/ South America exploration] party in College Hall. Among the things he said, 'This is the most important expedition the Church has ever sent out.'
[Benjamin Cluff Jr. Diary, April 15, 1900, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
President [George Q.] Cannon came to Provo [Utah] and spoke to the members of my [Central/ South America exploration] party in College Hall. Among the things he said, 'This is the most important expedition the Church has ever sent out.'
[Benjamin Cluff Jr. Diary, April 15, 1900, 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]
175 years ago today - Apr 13, 1845
... there was some officers there with writs for Br Young & others.the U. S. Martial was one[.] Elder Taylor spoke on the Stand give them to understand that if they made an attempt to serve the writs it would cost them their lives & also told them how they had murdered two of our best men while under a civil process and the authorities of the State pledged for their safety & that we would submit to no more such outrages on our lives and liberties.
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
180 years ago today - Apr 13, 1840
[Wilford Woodruff]
13th I recieved & read the singular & striking prophecies of Robert Dixon the celebrated Cheshire prophet in the reign of Henry VII from Lady Cowpers correct copy also an account of his life & death Published by John Fregorth 1829.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
13th I recieved & read the singular & striking prophecies of Robert Dixon the celebrated Cheshire prophet in the reign of Henry VII from Lady Cowpers correct copy also an account of his life & death Published by John Fregorth 1829.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
190 years ago today - Apr 13, 1830
Manchester, New York. Joseph Smith received Doctrine & Covenants 22, a revelation directing converts who had been previously baptized in other churches to be rebaptized as members of the Church.
[BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith, http://byustudies.byu.edu]
[BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith, http://byustudies.byu.edu]
15 years ago today - Apr 12, 2005
"The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints makes another [failed] attempt to address concerns of Jewish groups who complain that Holocaust victims are showing up on Mormon baptism rolls. Mormons believe that after death, baptisms save souls. Ten years ago, Mormon leaders agreed to try to stop this practice. Now, they vow to try again."
[National Public Radio, Morning Edition, Howard Berkes "Mormons Aim to Stop 'Baptism' of Holocaust Victims" as quoted in A chronicle of the Mormon-Jewish controversy; The LDS Agreement: A JewishGen InfoFile, http://www.jewishgen.org/infofiles/ldsagree.html]
[National Public Radio, Morning Edition, Howard Berkes "Mormons Aim to Stop 'Baptism' of Holocaust Victims" as quoted in A chronicle of the Mormon-Jewish controversy; The LDS Agreement: A JewishGen InfoFile, http://www.jewishgen.org/infofiles/ldsagree.html]
35 years ago today - Apr 12, 1985
U.S. Senator Jake Garn (Utah) blasts off in the space shuttle Discovery, becoming the first Latter-day Saint to enter space. A few weeks later aboard the Challenger, astronaut Don Lind becomes the second member of the Church to travel in space.
35 years ago today - Apr 12, 1985.
Steven F. Christensen, who purchased the Salamander letter in January 1984 from Mark Hofmann, donates it to the church. Only after Hofmann leaks copies and a session of MHA is devoted to it is the text published in the Church News.
[Anderson, Lavina Fielding, "The LDS Intellectual Community and Church Leadership: A Contemporary Chronology," Dialogue, Vol.26, No.1]
[Anderson, Lavina Fielding, "The LDS Intellectual Community and Church Leadership: A Contemporary Chronology," Dialogue, Vol.26, No.1]
55 years ago today - Apr 12, 1965
An LDS student wrote a letter to the Utah Chronicle that Elder Benson "told a damned lie" when he instructed LDS general conference that Communists controlled the NAACP.
[Leon Johnson, "Benson Told A 'Damned Lie,'" Daily Utah Chronicle, 12 Apr. 1965, 2. 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.]
[Leon Johnson, "Benson Told A 'Damned Lie,'" Daily Utah Chronicle, 12 Apr. 1965, 2. 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 - Apr 12, 1945
[Joseph Fielding Smith]
[Regarding the death of Franklin D. Roosevelt:] It has been a marvelous thing how Mr. Roosevelt influenced so many people and since his death, the crie has gone forth from many people as reported in the papers that the nation is now left helpless, or in a critical condition, with Mr. Roosevelt gone, and unable to guide the ship of state. There are some of us who have felt that it is really an act of providence. This man has been in office too long for the good of the nations. He built up the greatest political machine that was ever known; he increased the number of government employees ten times over any predecessor. It is considered that with the number on the government payrolls, and those financially influenced thereby, with their friends, something like six million votes have been controlled, if not more, and there is little chance for any other candidate with this handicap against him. Moreover, we are rapidly falling into a dictatorship, comparable with those which have been condemned by us in other countries. The liberties of the people are curtailed more and more, and the exercise of authority has been placed in the hands of boards who act as both judge and jury and jailor without justification of the law. The Supreme court of the country has fallen from its high pedestal, and has become a political machine, reversing old and staid decisions of justice, when the expediency of politics demands.
[Joseph Fielding Smith Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
[Regarding the death of Franklin D. Roosevelt:] It has been a marvelous thing how Mr. Roosevelt influenced so many people and since his death, the crie has gone forth from many people as reported in the papers that the nation is now left helpless, or in a critical condition, with Mr. Roosevelt gone, and unable to guide the ship of state. There are some of us who have felt that it is really an act of providence. This man has been in office too long for the good of the nations. He built up the greatest political machine that was ever known; he increased the number of government employees ten times over any predecessor. It is considered that with the number on the government payrolls, and those financially influenced thereby, with their friends, something like six million votes have been controlled, if not more, and there is little chance for any other candidate with this handicap against him. Moreover, we are rapidly falling into a dictatorship, comparable with those which have been condemned by us in other countries. The liberties of the people are curtailed more and more, and the exercise of authority has been placed in the hands of boards who act as both judge and jury and jailor without justification of the law. The Supreme court of the country has fallen from its high pedestal, and has become a political machine, reversing old and staid decisions of justice, when the expediency of politics demands.
[Joseph Fielding Smith Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
75 years ago today - Apr 12, 1945
The Mormon Tabernacle Choir performs on the nationwide radio broadcast for the memorial service of President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
[Sherry Baker: Mormon Media History Timeline: 1827-2007, http://byustudies.byu.edu/showTitle.aspx?title=7984]
[Sherry Baker: Mormon Media History Timeline: 1827-2007, http://byustudies.byu.edu/showTitle.aspx?title=7984]
85 years ago today - Apr 12, 1935
[Heber J. Grant]
In all my life I have had but two dreams that were significant, and one of them was to the effect that my first wife came for her little boy, who died when he was only even years of age. I felt the impression that he was sitting in a chair between me and my present wife, waiting for him to breathe his last breath, so that she could accompany his spirit. I turned to my wife and asked if she felt the presence of any one with us, and she said 'Yes, I feel like Heber's mother is sitting here between us.'
[Heber J. Grant, Letter to Mrs. N. E. Munk, 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]
In all my life I have had but two dreams that were significant, and one of them was to the effect that my first wife came for her little boy, who died when he was only even years of age. I felt the impression that he was sitting in a chair between me and my present wife, waiting for him to breathe his last breath, so that she could accompany his spirit. I turned to my wife and asked if she felt the presence of any one with us, and she said 'Yes, I feel like Heber's mother is sitting here between us.'
[Heber J. Grant, Letter to Mrs. N. E. Munk, 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 - Apr 12, 1900; Thursday
[First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
... The subject of secret societies was discussed. Several letters had been received by the brethren asking if connection with secret societies was a bar to the temples, and the secretary had been requested to hunt up all that had been said or written on this subject and report....
President Snow [a Mason] remarked that brethren who had joined secret organizations should not be denied the Temple, if otherwise worthy; but they should be advised to gradually withdraw from them....
President Smith moved that the Bishops be advised to counsel their ward members against joining secret orders and if they did so after being warned they might be excluded from the Temples, and that such men should not be put in presiding positions in the wards or Stakes of Zion. Although no vote was taken the motion became the sense of the counsel.
[First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
... The subject of secret societies was discussed. Several letters had been received by the brethren asking if connection with secret societies was a bar to the temples, and the secretary had been requested to hunt up all that had been said or written on this subject and report....
President Snow [a Mason] remarked that brethren who had joined secret organizations should not be denied the Temple, if otherwise worthy; but they should be advised to gradually withdraw from them....
President Smith moved that the Bishops be advised to counsel their ward members against joining secret orders and if they did so after being warned they might be excluded from the Temples, and that such men should not be put in presiding positions in the wards or Stakes of Zion. Although no vote was taken the motion became the sense of the counsel.
[First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
130 years ago today - Apr 12, 1890
[John T. Caine telegraph:] 'Bill introduced by Cullom yesterday to make Idaho test oath applicable to Utah territory. Judge Wilson wants your views whether it is deemed best to resist passage of the bill to disfranchise. Do not want to make contest that will be unwise, but ready to act upon SA [?] line as you think best. Please answer quickly.'
[Reply:] 'Telegraph received. What reasons can there be for not fighting Cullom's bill. Our policy always has been to resist everything of this character.' [The Idaho Test Oath required voters to testify they were neither polygamists, nor members of an organization that promoted polygamy]
[First Presidency Office Journal, 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]
[Reply:] 'Telegraph received. What reasons can there be for not fighting Cullom's bill. Our policy always has been to resist everything of this character.' [The Idaho Test Oath required voters to testify they were neither polygamists, nor members of an organization that promoted polygamy]
[First Presidency Office Journal, 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]
175 years ago today - Apr 12, 1845
[Hosea Stout]
... went with my wife to the Masonic Hall to a feast of beer and cakes prepared by the old police. The Old police and wives and some of the Twelve were present We had a joyful time as much cakes & beer as we could eat and drink we broke up about 9 oclock P. M. & I then came home.
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
... went with my wife to the Masonic Hall to a feast of beer and cakes prepared by the old police. The Old police and wives and some of the Twelve were present We had a joyful time as much cakes & beer as we could eat and drink we broke up about 9 oclock P. M. & I then came home.
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
15 years ago today - Apr 11, 2005
Jews and Mormons decided Monday to jointly scrutinize a Mormon database that includes the names of thousands of deceased Jews including Holocaust victims who were given unwanted, posthumous baptisms.
A committee with members of both religions will study how names get into the massive International Genealogical Index which has an estimated 4 million entries what processes are followed, and how greater order can be brought to the unwieldy listing.
The move lets Mormons "see what we can do that doesn't compromise our core beliefs and practices" while still addressing the concerns of Jewish leaders, said D. Todd Christofferson, a member of the Presidency of the Seventy, a high-ranking church leadership body. "We're going to do a lot of fact finding, and we will go from there."...
[Jews, Mormons Agree to Study Database of Those Who Received Posthumous Proxy Baptisms by MARK THIESSEN Associated Press Writer as quoted in A chronicle of the Mormon-Jewish controversy; The LDS Agreement: A JewishGen InfoFile, http://www.jewishgen.org/infofiles/ldsagree.html]
A committee with members of both religions will study how names get into the massive International Genealogical Index which has an estimated 4 million entries what processes are followed, and how greater order can be brought to the unwieldy listing.
The move lets Mormons "see what we can do that doesn't compromise our core beliefs and practices" while still addressing the concerns of Jewish leaders, said D. Todd Christofferson, a member of the Presidency of the Seventy, a high-ranking church leadership body. "We're going to do a lot of fact finding, and we will go from there."...
[Jews, Mormons Agree to Study Database of Those Who Received Posthumous Proxy Baptisms by MARK THIESSEN Associated Press Writer as quoted in A chronicle of the Mormon-Jewish controversy; The LDS Agreement: A JewishGen InfoFile, http://www.jewishgen.org/infofiles/ldsagree.html]
125 years ago today - Apr 11, 1895
"It is reported that old time Liberals will try to get not only Suffrage but Prohibition into the constitution & then defeat the whole thing."
[Franklin D. Richards Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
[Franklin D. Richards Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
130 years ago today - Apr 11, 1890 (Friday)
The Canadian Parliament, in a session at Ottowa, amended the criminal law of the Dominion so as to make polygamy punishable with five years' imprisonment, instead of two, as heretofore. This was undoubtedly done with a view to reach the "Mormons," who had settled in Alberta.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
175 years ago today - Apr 11, 1845
At 9 Oclock the Kingdom [Council of Fifty] met in council at the Masonick Hall, 47 Present. ... Last Eve the Boys Whisel [whistled (I.E.intimidated)] a man out of the city.
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
175 years ago today - Friday, Apr 11, 1845
Masonic Hall, Nauvoo
Upper California [by] John Taylor The Upper California, O that's the land for me, It lies between the mountains, and great Pacific Sea, The Saints can be supported there, and taste the sweets of liberty With flocks and herds abounding, O that's the land for me, O that's &c.
... Our Towers and Temples then shall rise along the great Pacific Sea. In Upper California, O that's the land for me, O that's the land, &c. We'll ask our cousin Lemuel, to join our heart and hand, And spread abroad our curtains, throughout fair Zions land. 'Till this is done, we'll pitch our tents beside the great Pacific Sea, In Upper California, O that's the land for me, ...
[from the Church History Library, quoted in Jedediah S. Rogers (editor), The Council of Fifty: A Documentary History, Signature Books (2014)]
Upper California [by] John Taylor The Upper California, O that's the land for me, It lies between the mountains, and great Pacific Sea, The Saints can be supported there, and taste the sweets of liberty With flocks and herds abounding, O that's the land for me, O that's &c.
... Our Towers and Temples then shall rise along the great Pacific Sea. In Upper California, O that's the land for me, O that's the land, &c. We'll ask our cousin Lemuel, to join our heart and hand, And spread abroad our curtains, throughout fair Zions land. 'Till this is done, we'll pitch our tents beside the great Pacific Sea, In Upper California, O that's the land for me, ...
[from the Church History Library, quoted in Jedediah S. Rogers (editor), The Council of Fifty: A Documentary History, Signature Books (2014)]
190 years ago today - 1830 11-16 April
A Fayette, New York, branch of the church is established. Cowdery delivers the first public discourse of the church and performs baptisms. A revelation is received regarding individuals who have been baptized in other Christian churches (BC 23; LDS D&C 22; RLDS D&C 20). [Joseph Smith is a hesitant speaker and typically assigns other to make major sermons up through 1839]
[Marquardt, H. Michael and Walters, Wesley P., Inventing Mormonism:Tradition and the Historical Record, A Chronology of Mormon Origins, p.xxvi, http://www.amazon.com/Inventing-Mormonism-Tradition-Historical-Record/dp/1560851082]
[Marquardt, H. Michael and Walters, Wesley P., Inventing Mormonism:Tradition and the Historical Record, A Chronology of Mormon Origins, p.xxvi, http://www.amazon.com/Inventing-Mormonism-Tradition-Historical-Record/dp/1560851082]
30 years ago today - Apr 10, 1990.
Changes in the temple ceremony that eliminated symbolic violence and somewhat broadened the role for women trigger articles by the Associated Press, the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, Time Magazine, U.S. News and World Report, and many local papers. Mormons who are quoted ... are interviewed by their stake presidents. ...
[Anderson, Lavina Fielding, "The LDS Intellectual Community and Church Leadership: A Contemporary Chronology," Dialogue, Vol.26, No.1]
[Anderson, Lavina Fielding, "The LDS Intellectual Community and Church Leadership: A Contemporary Chronology," Dialogue, Vol.26, No.1]
110 years ago today - Apr 10, 1910
Stake president writes of church members "complaining on account of so many Smiths being chosen." Recent conference sustained John Henry Smith as second counselor and President Smith's son, Joseph Fielding Smith, as new apostle. In addition to appointing his son Hyrum M. an apostle in 1901. Smith also appoints his son David A. Smith to Presiding Bishopric in 1907.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
130 years ago today - Apr 10-11, 1890
- Both U.S. Senate and House propose bills to disfranchise all Mormons. With delaying tactics by Mormon allies in Congress, these two bills make slow progress into summer, but Supreme Court decision in Feb. 1890 assures eventual enactment.
130 years ago today - Thursday, April 10th, 1890
The resolution of the First Presidency of June 30/[18]90 in regard to plural marriages was read. It is to the effect that none shall be permitted to occur even in Mexico unless the contracting parties, or at least the female, has resolved to remain in that country.
[Abraham H. Cannon Journal Excerpts, http://www.amazon.com/Apostles-Record-Journals-Abraham-1889-1896/dp/B000MFD1K4]
[Abraham H. Cannon Journal Excerpts, http://www.amazon.com/Apostles-Record-Journals-Abraham-1889-1896/dp/B000MFD1K4]
135 years ago today - Apr 10, 1885
[Wilford Woodruff]
I dreamed last night I was arested by 2 Marshal for Cohabitation with my wives. This is the 2d time I have dreamed this.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
I dreamed last night I was arested by 2 Marshal for Cohabitation with my wives. This is the 2d time I have dreamed this.
[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 - Saturday, Apr 10, 1880
At 10 met with the Council of 50 first organized by Joseph [Smith] the Prophet March 10–1844,-but which has not met for several [12] years. The last Roll & Records since 1850 being absent and about 20 vacancies having occurred by death since last session the morning Session was occupied in Organizing... The Name & Constitution of this Council of the Kingdom were stated as given by Revelation in the beginning. Several of the first members spoke of certain important items of great interest to all present; especially to the new members. All seemed to rejoice.
[Franklin D. Richards journal, as quoted in Jedediah S. Rogers (editor), The Council of Fifty: A Documentary History, Signature Books (2014)]
[Franklin D. Richards journal, as quoted in Jedediah S. Rogers (editor), The Council of Fifty: A Documentary History, Signature Books (2014)]
145 years ago today - Apr 10, 1875
Brigham Young changes the ranking in the Quorum of the Twelve and demotes Orson Hyde and Orson Pratt beneath John Taylor for the first time in nearly thirty-seven years. This makes Taylor the senior-ranking apostle after Young. This action also releases Hyde as president of the Quorum of the Twelve, an office to which he had been publicly sustained since 27 Dec. 1847. However, because of their mutual dislike Young declines to sustain Taylor in Hyde's former office either privately or publicly.
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database ( http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase )]]
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database ( http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase )]]
150 years ago today - Apr 10, 1870
Apostle Orson Pratt: "We have ... confidence in returning to Jackson county... There are many of the old stock still living, whose faith in returning to Jackson County, and the things that are coming, is as firm and fixed as the throne of the Almighty."
[Journal of Discourses, vol. 13, p. 138 http://journalofdiscourses.com/13/16, as quoted in The Last Days and December 1890 2nd Coming of Jesus Christ, y George D. Speer Sr., privately circulated]
[Journal of Discourses, vol. 13, p. 138 http://journalofdiscourses.com/13/16, as quoted in The Last Days and December 1890 2nd Coming of Jesus Christ, y George D. Speer Sr., privately circulated]
155 years ago today - Apr 10, 1865
Special conference of the Church held in Salt Lake City where motion passed to erect a telegraph line from St. Charles, Utah (near Bear Lake) to St. George, Utah. Members are called to build the line, and are instructed in telegraphy.
[Sherry Baker: Mormon Media History Timeline: 1827-2007, http://byustudies.byu.edu/showTitle.aspx?title=7984]
[Sherry Baker: Mormon Media History Timeline: 1827-2007, http://byustudies.byu.edu/showTitle.aspx?title=7984]
175 years ago today - Thursday, April 10, 1845
[E]ve[ning] The same [i.e., Elders Hyde, Kimball, Lyman, Richards, Smith, Taylor, and Young] & Bishop[s] [George] Miller & [Newel K.] Whitney at prayer meeting at my office. prayed for ... a curse on [Thomas] Sharp. [F]osters. Laws Higbees &c - blessings on the saints & our protection from enemies[.]
[Willard Richards, Diary, as quoted in Joseph Smith's Quorum of the Anointed 1842-1845 A Documentary History edited by Devery S. Anderson and Gary James Bergera]
[Willard Richards, Diary, as quoted in Joseph Smith's Quorum of the Anointed 1842-1845 A Documentary History edited by Devery S. Anderson and Gary James Bergera]
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