[David O. McKay]
At the office at 7 a.m.'Busy with office affairs until 9 a.m., at which time I met with Brother Stephen L. Richards who has been appointed a member of a committee to study a plan for Priesthood insurance. I told Brother Richards that I would call Brother Virgil Smith of the Beneficial Life Insurance Company who I am sure, will be able to give some valuable advice regarding this matter. I later reached Brother Smith by telephone and asked him if he would meet with Brother Stephen L. Richards. I explained to him that for twenty or twenty-five years we have been trying to work out some plan for Priesthood insurance for the Quorums of the Church; that the Council of the First Presidency and the Twelve the other day approved of a committee's working a plan out, and approved of the committee's getting such help as will be necessary to get it on a sound basis. I told him, also, that Brother Stephen L. Richards had met with me this morning on it, and said that he would appreciate very much receiving his advice regarding it. Brother Smith said that he would be very happy to render whatever help he could, and that he would get in touch with Brother Stephen L. Richards immediately.
[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 - May 31, 1935
Dr. George W. Middleton and Heber Sears ask 'the opinion of the Church regarding sterilization of criminals, incompetents, etc." Heber J. Grant replies that "the Church had taken no stand whatever on this matter up to date."
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
120 years ago today - May 31, 1900
In a meeting of the Twelve Apostles it is decided that Apostle Reed Smoot should try for a seat on the Republican National Committee.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
120 years ago today - May 31, 1900; Thursday
Brother [Heber J.] Grant reported that in visiting the Granite [Utah] Stake it was evident to him that Bishop Apollos Driggs was not a fit man to preside over the Sugar House Ward. He found that he had paid five dollars tithing last year and his clerk ten cents, and for several years previous Brother Driggs had paid no tithing at all. It looks on the face of it that by himself and clerk paying a little tithing they realized that they would escape being put on the list of non-tithe payers. ... Brother Grant stated that he had decided in his mind that Brother Driggs should be asked for his resignation ...
[First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
[First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
145 years ago today - May 31, 1875
[Wilford Woodruff]
During the Evening My Brother Azmon Woodruff & his wife Elizabeth Pierce Woodruff arived at my house. I should not have been much more surprised if an Angel from Heaven had Called upon me. It had been 38 years since we had met before.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
During the Evening My Brother Azmon Woodruff & his wife Elizabeth Pierce Woodruff arived at my house. I should not have been much more surprised if an Angel from Heaven had Called upon me. It had been 38 years since we had met before.
[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 - May 31, 1845, Saturday
[William Clayton]
[Regarding the trail of the murders of Joseph & Hyrum Smith] From the testimony of brother Watt it appears the Judge Young is favorable to the mobocrats and manifests a disposition to acquit the murderers rather than bring them to justice. Calvin A. Warren also said if the prisoners were guilty of murder he himself was guilty, alleging that it was the public opinion that the Smiths ought to be killed, and public opinions make laws, and consequently it was not murder to kill the Smiths. Esqr. Browing also railed hard against the saints. In fact the whole proceedings of the court is nothing more than a farce, and it is evident there is no disposition on the part of the people to avenge the blood of the servents of God and it will yet be left for God himself to do it, in his own time and in his own way.
[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]
[Regarding the trail of the murders of Joseph & Hyrum Smith] From the testimony of brother Watt it appears the Judge Young is favorable to the mobocrats and manifests a disposition to acquit the murderers rather than bring them to justice. Calvin A. Warren also said if the prisoners were guilty of murder he himself was guilty, alleging that it was the public opinion that the Smiths ought to be killed, and public opinions make laws, and consequently it was not murder to kill the Smiths. Esqr. Browing also railed hard against the saints. In fact the whole proceedings of the court is nothing more than a farce, and it is evident there is no disposition on the part of the people to avenge the blood of the servents of God and it will yet be left for God himself to do it, in his own time and in his own way.
[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]
185 years ago today - May 31, 1835
[Patriarchal Blessing of George A. Smith given by John Smith]
... thou shalt be a mighty man in the earth, even like unto Alma of old, who by faith caused prison walls to fall to the ground, that they could not hold him, and like Ammon who by the power of his words caused Kings to fall prostrate before him, and even the man who raised his sword to slay him fell dead at his feet; thou shalt preach before the wise and the learned even kings and rulers, many shall bow down before you, and some will even worship you, if you do not tell them better; thou shalt be an instrument in the hands of the Lord, in bringing thousands to the knowledge of the truth and lead them to Zion; you shall do mighty miracles in the name of the Lord, to the astonishment of all who are about you; ... Angels shall minister unto you and console you in time of trouble;
... if you desire it, you shall see the winding up scene when the Heavens shall be unveiled, and you shall see the the face of the Lord and fly to meet him in the cloud; and from this hour your mind shall begin to expand and continue so to do, until you shall comprehend all things; you shall also be healed of all thy bodily infirmities ...
[Early Patriarchal Blessing Book 1:143-144, quoted in Patriarchal Blessings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Joseph Smith Sr. (Author), H. Michael Marquardt (Editor), http://amzn.to/rCBHVe]
... thou shalt be a mighty man in the earth, even like unto Alma of old, who by faith caused prison walls to fall to the ground, that they could not hold him, and like Ammon who by the power of his words caused Kings to fall prostrate before him, and even the man who raised his sword to slay him fell dead at his feet; thou shalt preach before the wise and the learned even kings and rulers, many shall bow down before you, and some will even worship you, if you do not tell them better; thou shalt be an instrument in the hands of the Lord, in bringing thousands to the knowledge of the truth and lead them to Zion; you shall do mighty miracles in the name of the Lord, to the astonishment of all who are about you; ... Angels shall minister unto you and console you in time of trouble;
... if you desire it, you shall see the winding up scene when the Heavens shall be unveiled, and you shall see the the face of the Lord and fly to meet him in the cloud; and from this hour your mind shall begin to expand and continue so to do, until you shall comprehend all things; you shall also be healed of all thy bodily infirmities ...
[Early Patriarchal Blessing Book 1:143-144, quoted in Patriarchal Blessings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Joseph Smith Sr. (Author), H. Michael Marquardt (Editor), http://amzn.to/rCBHVe]
45 years ago today - May 30, 1975
Maxine Conder is the second woman in U.S. Navy history to be promoted to admiral. In her biographical sketch for 'Who's Who in America,' Admiral Conder writes: "I am eternally grateful for my Mormon heritage."
[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 )]]
70 years ago today - May 30, 1950
[George Albert Smith]
I learned this evening that there has been a good deal of difficulty over the Brigham Young Monument dedication services. ... [political maneuvering over which senator should receive the monument is described] ... I am fearful that there was some politics involved in the matter but feel very keenly the fact that on such a sacred occasion such as the dedication of the monument to Brigham Young that any of the people from Utah would stoop to playing politics over such an event. ... Senator Watkins came up to the room after I had gone to bed and visited with Arthur and Emily and talked about the difficulty over the dedication. He is quite embarrassed and disturbed because the announcement was given to all the newspapers and was printed in papers over the country, particularly in Utah, indicating that he will receive the monument on behalf of the Senate and is at a loss to know just what he should do. I am very much disturbed over the situation.
[George Albert 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 learned this evening that there has been a good deal of difficulty over the Brigham Young Monument dedication services. ... [political maneuvering over which senator should receive the monument is described] ... I am fearful that there was some politics involved in the matter but feel very keenly the fact that on such a sacred occasion such as the dedication of the monument to Brigham Young that any of the people from Utah would stoop to playing politics over such an event. ... Senator Watkins came up to the room after I had gone to bed and visited with Arthur and Emily and talked about the difficulty over the dedication. He is quite embarrassed and disturbed because the announcement was given to all the newspapers and was printed in papers over the country, particularly in Utah, indicating that he will receive the monument on behalf of the Senate and is at a loss to know just what he should do. I am very much disturbed over the situation.
[George Albert 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]
105 years ago today - May 30, 1915
William Paul Daniels is the first black African to join the LDS church. An Elder in the Dutch Reformed Church of South Aftrica, he accepts baptism in Salt Lake City without opportunity for the LDS priesthood. He returns to Cape Town where he dies in 1936. Exactly sixty-five years after his baptism, Daniels receives his temple endowment by proxy.
[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 - May 30, 1890
Apostle Lorenzo Snow tells a meeting of the apostles, "I have thought of the necessity of establishing a mission in Jerusalem and to have a colony established there who should water their lands from the river Jordan."
Heber J. Grant also tells apostles that "he had never had an inspired dream in his life and that although he had always desired to see his father in a dream or vision that he had never been allowed to enjoy this great privilege." Decades later as church president, Grant often speaks publicly of an 1883 manifestation where he saw and heard a heavenly council meeting of his deceased father with Jesus Christ and Joseph Smith. However, he first describes this experience to other apostles as simply "the whisperings of the spirit to him" that he was called as an apostle because of such a meeting.
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database ( http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase )]]
Heber J. Grant also tells apostles that "he had never had an inspired dream in his life and that although he had always desired to see his father in a dream or vision that he had never been allowed to enjoy this great privilege." Decades later as church president, Grant often speaks publicly of an 1883 manifestation where he saw and heard a heavenly council meeting of his deceased father with Jesus Christ and Joseph Smith. However, he first describes this experience to other apostles as simply "the whisperings of the spirit to him" that he was called as an apostle because of such a meeting.
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database ( http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase )]]
130 years ago today - May 30, 1890
[John W. Taylor:] I have seen the power of God in vision. I have seen the Prophet Joseph [Smith] also Brother Brigham Young and my own father [i.e., John Taylor] since his death. I almost fear when I stop to think that I have seen the Lord Jesus Christ, knowing as I do that others who have similar manifestations have fallen away from the truth, and I am fearful lest Ifall. ...
Bro[ther] Jno. [John] H[enry]. Smith said last U[nited]. O[rder]. 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 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 readyto fight each other.
[Minutes, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
Bro[ther] Jno. [John] H[enry]. Smith said last U[nited]. O[rder]. 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 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 readyto fight each other.
[Minutes, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
175 years ago today - May 30, 1845
Nearly a year after the martyrdom of the Prophet Joseph Smith and Patriarch Hyrum Smith, the nine defendants charged with the murder of Joseph and Hyrum are acquitted.
180 years ago today - May 30, 1840
[Wilford Woodruff]
Yes glory Hallelujah I have now got a letter from Phebe. It is the first letter I have received from her since I have been in England. Her letter contained much intelligence of Interest. She informed me she was blessed with the birth of a Son, on the morn of the 22 of March 1840 at 6 oclock. His Name is WILLFORD WOODRUFF Jr. May he be preserved blameless unto the comeing of the Lord Jesus Christ for which I will ever Pray.
One letter was from Elder Brigham Young at Manchester informing us that the first No of the Millenial Star was out of press & that the Hymn Book & Book of Mormon would soon be in tipe. One letter was from Sister Richards, & one from Elder Whitehead & their was so much glorious news in thes letters that it drove sleep from our eyes for the night & I felt more like going out into the street & shouting glory Hallelujah than any thing els. <Elder Turley is> out <of prison.>
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
Yes glory Hallelujah I have now got a letter from Phebe. It is the first letter I have received from her since I have been in England. Her letter contained much intelligence of Interest. She informed me she was blessed with the birth of a Son, on the morn of the 22 of March 1840 at 6 oclock. His Name is WILLFORD WOODRUFF Jr. May he be preserved blameless unto the comeing of the Lord Jesus Christ for which I will ever Pray.
One letter was from Elder Brigham Young at Manchester informing us that the first No of the Millenial Star was out of press & that the Hymn Book & Book of Mormon would soon be in tipe. One letter was from Sister Richards, & one from Elder Whitehead & their was so much glorious news in thes letters that it drove sleep from our eyes for the night & I felt more like going out into the street & shouting glory Hallelujah than any thing els. <Elder Turley is> out <of prison.>
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
185 years ago today - May 26, 1835
[Martin Harris]
to be the first individual to receive an inheritance in Zion
[Martin Harris Chronology, Michael Marquardt, Sunstone Symposium 2016]
to be the first individual to receive an inheritance in Zion
[Martin Harris Chronology, Michael Marquardt, Sunstone Symposium 2016]
45 years ago today - May 29, 1975-Thursday
[Leonard Arrington]
In our executives meeting this morning Elder [Joseph] Anderson told a story with respect to one of the sermons delivered by J. Golden Kimball. He did not remember the year, but it must have been in the 1930s. In the sermon for some reason Elder Kimball got after the farmers in Idaho. He made all kinds of statements holding them up to ridicule-they didn't have enough sense to pound sand into a rat hole, etc. This was a general conference sermon. President [Heber J.] Grant felt that it was offensive to Idaho farmers and arose and excoriated Elder Kimball-got after him in the strongest language. Brother Anderson took verbatim minutes of the talk and sent it to Elder Kimball for his corrections. Elder Kimball greatly laundered the talk to eliminate the offensive references. When it came in Elder Anderson said to President Grant, "What shall we do? His talk as it is submitted for publication will be quite mild and will make your own remarks seem to be far too strong." President Grant said, "The answer to that is simple. You go to Brother Kimball"-President Grant loved Brother Kimball"and tell him that we will either publish his talk as originally given plus my comments as originally given or we will leave them both out." When Brother Anderson went to Brother Kimball he said, "Well, I guess the best thing, Joseph, is to leave both out," so that was a general conference proceeding which was completely eliminated.
Maybe we could have someone go through the general conference proceedings and find out what year and then look in the Salt Lake Tribune for its summary of Brother Kimball's talk. [[See Joseph Geisner, "Very Careless in His Utterances: Editing, Correcting, and Censoring Conference Addresses," Sunstone, Dec. 2011.]]
[Confessions of a Mormon historian : the diaries of Leonard J. Arrington, 1971-1997, Gary James Bergera, editor, Signature Books, 2018]
In our executives meeting this morning Elder [Joseph] Anderson told a story with respect to one of the sermons delivered by J. Golden Kimball. He did not remember the year, but it must have been in the 1930s. In the sermon for some reason Elder Kimball got after the farmers in Idaho. He made all kinds of statements holding them up to ridicule-they didn't have enough sense to pound sand into a rat hole, etc. This was a general conference sermon. President [Heber J.] Grant felt that it was offensive to Idaho farmers and arose and excoriated Elder Kimball-got after him in the strongest language. Brother Anderson took verbatim minutes of the talk and sent it to Elder Kimball for his corrections. Elder Kimball greatly laundered the talk to eliminate the offensive references. When it came in Elder Anderson said to President Grant, "What shall we do? His talk as it is submitted for publication will be quite mild and will make your own remarks seem to be far too strong." President Grant said, "The answer to that is simple. You go to Brother Kimball"-President Grant loved Brother Kimball"and tell him that we will either publish his talk as originally given plus my comments as originally given or we will leave them both out." When Brother Anderson went to Brother Kimball he said, "Well, I guess the best thing, Joseph, is to leave both out," so that was a general conference proceeding which was completely eliminated.
Maybe we could have someone go through the general conference proceedings and find out what year and then look in the Salt Lake Tribune for its summary of Brother Kimball's talk. [[See Joseph Geisner, "Very Careless in His Utterances: Editing, Correcting, and Censoring Conference Addresses," Sunstone, Dec. 2011.]]
[Confessions of a Mormon historian : the diaries of Leonard J. Arrington, 1971-1997, Gary James Bergera, editor, Signature Books, 2018]
130 years ago today - May 29, 1890
[Heber J. Grant]
[Apostles meeting called by Lorenzo Snow to achieve perfect unity.] Moses Thatcher felt that it was a good thing to be here. He felt that the Lord was with us. I have been filled with solemn thoughts since Pres[iden]t Snow was moved upon to call us together. The hope of our becoming one has given me more joy than anything I can think of. If we can become as one it will be a glorious thing. The First Presidency are one and if we can become one and then become one with the First Presidency it will be the beginning of the establishment of the Kingdom of God, preparatory for the coming of our Lord and Master Jesus Christ ...
[Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Apostles meeting called by Lorenzo Snow to achieve perfect unity.] Moses Thatcher felt that it was a good thing to be here. He felt that the Lord was with us. I have been filled with solemn thoughts since Pres[iden]t Snow was moved upon to call us together. The hope of our becoming one has given me more joy than anything I can think of. If we can become as one it will be a glorious thing. The First Presidency are one and if we can become one and then become one with the First Presidency it will be the beginning of the establishment of the Kingdom of God, preparatory for the coming of our Lord and Master Jesus Christ ...
[Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
130 years ago today - May 29, 1890
[Brigham Young Jr.]
Pres[ident] L[orenzo]. Snow & others of the Twelve met at the Historians office upper room at 10 a.m. We came together fasting and enjoyed the holy Spirit. Pres[iden]t Snow said 'You brethren will live to behold the savior, You shall not die death shall have no power over you. You have the great work to perform. You were called and ordained to it in an other sphere. Be faithful and you shall never taste death.'
[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[ident] L[orenzo]. Snow & others of the Twelve met at the Historians office upper room at 10 a.m. We came together fasting and enjoyed the holy Spirit. Pres[iden]t Snow said 'You brethren will live to behold the savior, You shall not die death shall have no power over you. You have the great work to perform. You were called and ordained to it in an other sphere. Be faithful and you shall never taste death.'
[Brigham Young Jr. Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
145 years ago today - May 29, 1875
Missionary and future apostle John Henry Smith writes of arriving in Berlin: "took a Cab and went to the Hotel D'Angleterre, took rooms, washed and took Table D'Hote. There was 13 courses. Cousin J[oseph] F. S[mith] & I drank Clarret. . . . One thing is very evident here, and that is military rule, troops and Police on every hand, and the people seem afraid of them."
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
150 years ago today - May 29, 1870
Brigham Young teaches: "The aborigines of this country are the descendants of this very people whom Jesus visited, to whom he delivered his Gospel, and among whom he organized his Church. They were obedient for over three hundred years, and served God with an undivided heart, after which they began to apostatize."
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
150 years ago today - May 29, 1870
... I will commence by satisfying the curiosity of almost everybody that comes here, or with whom our Elders converse when away. A great many men and women have an irrepressible curiosity to know how many wives Brigham Young has. I am now going to gratify that curiosity by saying, ladies and gentlemen, I have sixteen wives. If I have any more hereafter it will be my good luck and the blessing of God. '"How many children have you, President Young?'" I have fortynine living children, and I hope to have a great many more. Now put that down. I impart this information to gratify the curiosity of the curious. '"President Young, did you come here naked and barefoot?'" I will say, very nearly so. '"How many of your wives had shoes to their feet, after leaving every thing you had in the State of Illinois?'" I do not think that more than one or two of my wives had shoes to their feet when we came here. We bought buckskins of the Indians and made moccasins of them. How many of these Elders had whole pantaloons when they reached here? I do not believe a dozen of them had. They had worked in the dead of winter ferrying the people across the river until they had nothing, and they came here naked and barefoot, that is, comparatively. We had to have faith to come here. When we met Mr. Bridger on the Big Sandy River, said he, '"Mr. Young, I would give a thousand dollars if I knew an ear of corn could be ripened in the Great Basin.'" Said I, '"Wait eighteen months and I will show you many of them.'" ...
I have heard some make the broad assertion that every word within the lids of the Bible was the word of God. I have said to them, '"You have never read the Bible, have you?'" '"O, yes, and I believe every word in it is the word of God.'" Well, I believe that the Bible contains the word of God, and the words of good men and the words of bad men; the words of good angels and the words of bad angels and words of the devil; and also the words uttered by the ass when he rebuked the prophet in his madness. I believe the words of the Bible are just what they are. ...
'"Did you not go to school?'" Yes; I went eleven days, that was the extent of my schooling. ....
'"Mr. Young, I suppose that you would obey Joseph Smith, let him tell you to do what he might?'" '"Well, I think I would.'" '"Suppose that he should tell you to kill your neighbor or to steal, or to do this, that or the other, that is wrong, would you do it?'" I would reply, '"Wait till I am told. I have never yet been told from heaven, by Joseph Smith, the Old or New Testament, the Book of Mormon or the Book of Doctrine and Covenants, to do a wrong thing; and I will wait until I am, before I say what I would do; that is time enough.'" ...
[Journal of Discourses. Liverpool, England, 1853-86. 13:170-178, quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
I have heard some make the broad assertion that every word within the lids of the Bible was the word of God. I have said to them, '"You have never read the Bible, have you?'" '"O, yes, and I believe every word in it is the word of God.'" Well, I believe that the Bible contains the word of God, and the words of good men and the words of bad men; the words of good angels and the words of bad angels and words of the devil; and also the words uttered by the ass when he rebuked the prophet in his madness. I believe the words of the Bible are just what they are. ...
'"Did you not go to school?'" Yes; I went eleven days, that was the extent of my schooling. ....
'"Mr. Young, I suppose that you would obey Joseph Smith, let him tell you to do what he might?'" '"Well, I think I would.'" '"Suppose that he should tell you to kill your neighbor or to steal, or to do this, that or the other, that is wrong, would you do it?'" I would reply, '"Wait till I am told. I have never yet been told from heaven, by Joseph Smith, the Old or New Testament, the Book of Mormon or the Book of Doctrine and Covenants, to do a wrong thing; and I will wait until I am, before I say what I would do; that is time enough.'" ...
[Journal of Discourses. Liverpool, England, 1853-86. 13:170-178, 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 - May 29, 1845
[Anointed Quorum]
"Prayed that the Lord would overrule the movements of [Patriarch to the Church] Win. [William] Smith who is endeavoring to ride the Twelve down; also that the Lord would overrule the proceedings of the mob so that we may dwell in peace until the Temple is finished" .
[Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Signature Books, 1994, Appendex: Meetings and Initiations of the Anointed Quorum, 1842-45, http://amzn.to/origins-power]
"Prayed that the Lord would overrule the movements of [Patriarch to the Church] Win. [William] Smith who is endeavoring to ride the Twelve down; also that the Lord would overrule the proceedings of the mob so that we may dwell in peace until the Temple is finished" .
[Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Signature Books, 1994, Appendex: Meetings and Initiations of the Anointed Quorum, 1842-45, http://amzn.to/origins-power]
180 years ago today - May 29, 1840. Friday.
[William Clayton]
Brother Kimball and Young came to Hardman's and sung some and afterwards spake with each other in tongues.
[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]
Brother Kimball and Young came to Hardman's and sung some and afterwards spake with each other in tongues.
[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]
15 years ago today - May 28, 2005
The Church News reports comments from Elder Marlin Jensen:
"[W]e're working on what I think will be the single most significant historical project of our generation: the Joseph Smith papers. With the help of scholars at the Joseph Fielding Smith Institute for Church History and our own staff here, we have under way a project that will collect all of the papers of Joseph Smith's lifetime: his journals, his diaries, his correspondence, articles, notices, everything of a written nature that he generated."The result of the 10-to-15-year project, he said, will be a work of up to 35 volumes that will enhance the collective scholarship about the Prophet in that no credible historian will be able "to write about early Church history or Joseph Smith without showing a mastery of this material."
[R. Scott Lloyd, "'Historian by yearning' collects, preserves: Elder Marlin K. Jensen is historian/recorder," Church News, May 28, 2005, Z12, quoted in Joseph Smith Papers Timeline: History of the Joseph Smith Papers Project, MormonWasp Blog (defunct)]
"[W]e're working on what I think will be the single most significant historical project of our generation: the Joseph Smith papers. With the help of scholars at the Joseph Fielding Smith Institute for Church History and our own staff here, we have under way a project that will collect all of the papers of Joseph Smith's lifetime: his journals, his diaries, his correspondence, articles, notices, everything of a written nature that he generated."The result of the 10-to-15-year project, he said, will be a work of up to 35 volumes that will enhance the collective scholarship about the Prophet in that no credible historian will be able "to write about early Church history or Joseph Smith without showing a mastery of this material."
[R. Scott Lloyd, "'Historian by yearning' collects, preserves: Elder Marlin K. Jensen is historian/recorder," Church News, May 28, 2005, Z12, quoted in Joseph Smith Papers Timeline: History of the Joseph Smith Papers Project, MormonWasp Blog (defunct)]
95 years ago today - May 28, 1925
[Heber J. Grant]
At 6:30 this morning I met Elder Reed Smoot. He has just returned from Los Angeles with Bishop Nibley. I told Reed that I had decided to select Brother [Charles W.] Nibley [not ordained an apostle] as my second counselor, promoting Brother [Anthony] Ivins to First Counselor, succeeding Brother Penrose.
[Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
At 6:30 this morning I met Elder Reed Smoot. He has just returned from Los Angeles with Bishop Nibley. I told Reed that I had decided to select Brother [Charles W.] Nibley [not ordained an apostle] as my second counselor, promoting Brother [Anthony] Ivins to First Counselor, succeeding Brother Penrose.
[Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
160 years ago today - May 28, 1860 (Monday)
The Indians attacked the mail station at Deep Creek, Tooele Co., shot a man and stole several horses.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
170 years ago today - May 28, 1850
[Nauvoo Temple]
Nauvoo city officials "declared that the southern and eastern walls would soon fall down, and that to avoid any serious accident, it was better to destroy them." The walls were then razed, leaving only the west facade standing.
[Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple]
Nauvoo city officials "declared that the southern and eastern walls would soon fall down, and that to avoid any serious accident, it was better to destroy them." The walls were then razed, leaving only the west facade standing.
[Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple]
175 years ago today - May 28, 1845
[Heber C. Kimball]
My wife under tem[p]tation had a dream. Sau [Saw] Evels Spirrits winding strings around hur neck, but I brock them and rent them a sunder, and she was delivered.
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
My wife under tem[p]tation had a dream. Sau [Saw] Evels Spirrits winding strings around hur neck, but I brock them and rent them a sunder, and she was delivered.
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
175 years ago today - May 28, 1845, Wednesday
On Wednesday the 28th of May the first ``bent'' of the attic story of the [Nauvoo] temple was raised by the carpenters, and up to this time they continued to raise the timber works with pleasing rapidity.
Thus the work of this temple has progressed from the beginning to the present time without any serious accident except in the incident which happened at the stone quarry. The blessing of God has attended the whole progress of the work, and it has advanced beyond our most sanguine expectations. Our enemines have threatened all the time, and for the last two years we have had very little cessation from writs and other efforts of the enemy to prevent our finishing it. Many prophecies have been uttered against it; but the Saints have invariably pursued a steady course of perseverance. As the building has progressed, the Saints have increased their donations and tithings; and this Spring has exceeded all past times for liberality and donations from the brethern.
[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]
Thus the work of this temple has progressed from the beginning to the present time without any serious accident except in the incident which happened at the stone quarry. The blessing of God has attended the whole progress of the work, and it has advanced beyond our most sanguine expectations. Our enemines have threatened all the time, and for the last two years we have had very little cessation from writs and other efforts of the enemy to prevent our finishing it. Many prophecies have been uttered against it; but the Saints have invariably pursued a steady course of perseverance. As the building has progressed, the Saints have increased their donations and tithings; and this Spring has exceeded all past times for liberality and donations from the brethern.
[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]
190 years ago today - May 28, 1830
The Indian Removal Act was a law passed by Congress during the presidency of Andrew Jackson. It authorized the president to negotiate with the "Five Civilized Tribes" in the Southern United States for their removal to federal territory west of the Mississippi River in exchange for their homelands. It paved the way for the reluctant migration of tens of thousands of American Indians to the West, an event widely known as the "Trail of Tears," a resettlement of the native population.
[Indian Removal Act]
[Indian Removal Act]
150 years ago today - May 27, 1870
[Wilford Woodruff]
I spent most of the day drawing a waggon she[et/af?] through my grain to ketch grass hoppers. We caught many bushels but still the Earth was nearly Covered. It seems a vary hard method to save any grain this season on my farm they have Eat my wheat Barley oats & Corn & it looks as though we [will] not raise any thing. But I would rather have a grass hopper war than a gentile war.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
I spent most of the day drawing a waggon she[et/af?] through my grain to ketch grass hoppers. We caught many bushels but still the Earth was nearly Covered. It seems a vary hard method to save any grain this season on my farm they have Eat my wheat Barley oats & Corn & it looks as though we [will] not raise any thing. But I would rather have a grass hopper war than a gentile war.
[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 - May 27, 1855
[Wilford Woodruff]
... we found that nearly all the wheat crops & other vegitable were eat up by the grass hoppers through the Territory as far as we went & most of the crops & vegitables in the city gardens were also destroyed..
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
... we found that nearly all the wheat crops & other vegitable were eat up by the grass hoppers through the Territory as far as we went & most of the crops & vegitables in the city gardens were also destroyed..
[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 - May 27, 1855
[Brigham Young]
I have asked this people not to sell their grain, but to preserve it to a day of need ...
[Journal of Discourses. Liverpool, England, 1853-86. 2:279-284, quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
I have asked this people not to sell their grain, but to preserve it to a day of need ...
[Journal of Discourses. Liverpool, England, 1853-86. 2:279-284, quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
170 years ago today - May 27, 1850
[Nauvoo Temple]
During 1849-1850 the Icarians had begun to repair the Temple, placing a series of new piers in the basement, planning on refurbishing the building for their use. On this day, as they were working, a tornado suddenly arose and toppled the north wall, leaving the east and south walls severely damaged. The workmen barely escaped with their lives, scrambling out of the ruins in stinging hail, pouring rain, thunder and lightening, all accompanied by violent winds.
[Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple]
During 1849-1850 the Icarians had begun to repair the Temple, placing a series of new piers in the basement, planning on refurbishing the building for their use. On this day, as they were working, a tornado suddenly arose and toppled the north wall, leaving the east and south walls severely damaged. The workmen barely escaped with their lives, scrambling out of the ruins in stinging hail, pouring rain, thunder and lightening, all accompanied by violent winds.
[Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple]
175 years ago today - May 27, 1845
Brigham Young receives "a respectful letter from Governor [Thomas] Drew in reply to our Memorial to him as governor of Arkansas; stating his inability to protect us in the state of Arkansas, and suggesting the propriety of our settling in Oregon, California, Nebraska or some other country where we will be out of the reach of our persecutors." Young's "Memorial" to Drew, sent May 1, asked, "Will it be too much to ask you to convene a special session of your State Legislature, 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]
180 years ago today - May 27, 1840
In England, Parley P. Pratt issues the first number of The Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star, which would become the longest-running publication in the Church (1840–1970).
75 years ago today - May 26, 1945
"When our leaders speak, the thinking has been done. When they propose a plan — it is God's plan. When they point the way, there is no other which is safe. When they give direction, it should mark the end of controversy. God works in no other way."
[ Ward Teachers Message, Desert News, Church Section, p. 5]
[ Ward Teachers Message, Desert News, Church Section, p. 5]
105 years ago today - May 26, 1915
[Letter to Joseph F. Smith]
...The anti-Mormon crusade in the East is still somewhat active, and resolutions are passed occasionally urging congressional action, particularly for an anti-polygamy amendment to the Constitution, with a caution not to include in it a general regulation of the marriage question, but to confine it to the 'crime' of polygamy. This does however appear to create very much of a furor. ...
[Anthon H. Lund and Charles W. Penrose, Letter to Joseph F. Smith, Honolulu, 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 anti-Mormon crusade in the East is still somewhat active, and resolutions are passed occasionally urging congressional action, particularly for an anti-polygamy amendment to the Constitution, with a caution not to include in it a general regulation of the marriage question, but to confine it to the 'crime' of polygamy. This does however appear to create very much of a furor. ...
[Anthon H. Lund and Charles W. Penrose, Letter to Joseph F. Smith, Honolulu, 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 - May 26, 1890
[Brigham Young Jr.]
Appraisers of B[righam]. Y[oung]. Estate met with me at 2 p.m. in parlour. Appraised the estate in one hour. Footed up according to Judge Elias Smith & Jesse Fox Jr. to $595,930.00 These apprisers are perhaps as well posted as any men in the City. This is an increase of something like $440,000.00 since it passed into our hands a little over twelve years ago. If one is not talented he can be honest.
[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]
Appraisers of B[righam]. Y[oung]. Estate met with me at 2 p.m. in parlour. Appraised the estate in one hour. Footed up according to Judge Elias Smith & Jesse Fox Jr. to $595,930.00 These apprisers are perhaps as well posted as any men in the City. This is an increase of something like $440,000.00 since it passed into our hands a little over twelve years ago. If one is not talented he can be honest.
[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]
130 years ago today - May 26, 1890
[Letter to Wilford Woodruff]
The rule has been, for the woman to be Sealed to a man in the Priesthood, and the children Sealed to them, and the former husband be Adopted into the family. And where Such Sealings have taken place heretofore, the matters have been Submitted and [the] former Sealing Cancelled * We do not now Seal women to men out of the Church, but some few cases were done in the Endowment House Sometime Ago. Whatever you may feel pleased to direct in these matters, we will carry out.
[Daniel H. Wells to Wilford Woodruff, quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
The rule has been, for the woman to be Sealed to a man in the Priesthood, and the children Sealed to them, and the former husband be Adopted into the family. And where Such Sealings have taken place heretofore, the matters have been Submitted and [the] former Sealing Cancelled * We do not now Seal women to men out of the Church, but some few cases were done in the Endowment House Sometime Ago. Whatever you may feel pleased to direct in these matters, we will carry out.
[Daniel H. Wells to Wilford Woodruff, quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
170 years ago today - May 26, 1850
[Brigham Young]
Now to the sons of Joseph, the children of Manasseh mixed with a very few of Ephraim - that is a key to the Lamanites - you know they have fallen in every respect in habits custom, flesh, spirit, blood, desire, all is fallen - at the commencement of the work the vision of my mind was open, but my natural disposition and taste it loathes the sight of those degraded Indians - but the Spirit of the Lord shews the state they must come into the Book of Mormon says not many generations will pass away until they become a delightsome people - We have got to do something - sometimes when God curses a man woman or nation - sometimes it comes sudden - sometimes gradual - when they are ripened in iniquity then the Lord will sweep them out of existence ...
[Thomas Bullock Minutes, quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
Now to the sons of Joseph, the children of Manasseh mixed with a very few of Ephraim - that is a key to the Lamanites - you know they have fallen in every respect in habits custom, flesh, spirit, blood, desire, all is fallen - at the commencement of the work the vision of my mind was open, but my natural disposition and taste it loathes the sight of those degraded Indians - but the Spirit of the Lord shews the state they must come into the Book of Mormon says not many generations will pass away until they become a delightsome people - We have got to do something - sometimes when God curses a man woman or nation - sometimes it comes sudden - sometimes gradual - when they are ripened in iniquity then the Lord will sweep them out of existence ...
[Thomas Bullock Minutes, quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
185 years ago today - May 26, 1835
W. W. Phelps sends his wife, Sally, the first six printed forms of the Doctrines and Covenants and writes that when Zion is redeemed, Martin Harris will receive the first inheritance, Joseph the second, and W. W. the 16th. Joseph preached a 3 1/2-hour sermon, "and unfolded more mysteries than I can write at this time." [I]f you and I continue faithful to the end, we are certain to be one in the Lord throughout eternity."
[He also writes "They keep the word of wisdom, drink cold water, and don't even mention tea and coffee; they pray night and morning."]
[Kenney, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://web.archive.org/web/20120805163534/saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml]
[He also writes "They keep the word of wisdom, drink cold water, and don't even mention tea and coffee; they pray night and morning."]
[Kenney, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://web.archive.org/web/20120805163534/saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml]
190 years ago today - May 26 1830
Congress passes Indian Removal Act, forcing Indians west of Mississippi. Mormons view displacement as "God's work", fulfilling prophecy of a literal gathering.
[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/]
45 years ago today - May 25, 1975
At a special early-morning "Adults only" fireside in the Seattle East Stake Apostle Mark E. Petersen states that oral sex in an "abomination." Peterson also tells the congregation, "I've been married to my wife for 44 years, and never once have seen her body uncovered".
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
80 years ago today - May 25, 1940
CHURCH SECTION prints Mrs. Horace Eaton's 1881 account that the prophet's mother Lucy Mack Smith performed various forms of divination, including palmistry. Apostle David O. McKay writes to N. B. Lundwall: "Regarding your proposed new book on "Temples of the Most High", I suggest that you confine your statistics to those which have already been approved by the General Authorities for publicity. Even some already published by the Arizona Temple, by Brother Frank T. Pomeroy, are now withheld from the general public. No statistics should be given out by any of the Temples until the items are first submitted to the First Presidency."
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
105 years ago today - May 25, 1915; Saturday
[James E. Talmage]
This evening's issue of the Deseret News contained the official announcement on reverse side of this sheet. This is the outcome of a report which I recently made to the First Presidency
and Twelve, copy of which follows:
Salt Lake City, Utah.
May 11, 1915.
President Joseph F. Smith and Counselors,
City.
Dear Brethren:
I have received an inquiry from the Presiding Bishop's Office relative to the correct or approved spelling of the proper name by which the Higher Priesthood is distinctively designated. Numerous questions relating to the same subject have come to me from unofficial sources. I venture to suggest, inasmuch as uniformity in the matter is greatly to be desired, that a ruling be made as to the approved spelling of the name to be used in our Church literature.
I submit for your consideration the following facts:
In the Old Testament MELCHIZEDEK, and in the New Testament MELCHISEDEC appear.
In literature other than scriptural both the foregoing forms are used with a decided preponderance in favor of the first.
Funk and Wagnalls "Standard Encyclopedia", the Encyclopedia Britannica, Smith's Bible Dictionary, and the Standard Bible Dictionary all give preference to MELCHIZEDEK.
The Century Dictionary adopts the same spelling but gives as an alternative form the New Testament spelling MELCHISEDEC.
The only work of recognized authority examined by me which gives the New Testament form first place is the New Standard Dictionary; and this specifies the more common MELCHIZEDEK as correct.
The Book of Mormon spelling is the same as that in the Old Testament, MELCHIZEDEK.
The Doctrine and Covenants introduces a spelling found nowhere else except in the writings of some of our own people, namely, MELCHISEDEK. Another variant form used only by some of our own writers is MELCHIZEDEC.
From the foregoing it will be seen that the spelling almost universally used by Theologians and writers in general outside of our Church is MELCHIZEDEK; and this is the form given in both the Old Testament and the Book of Mormon.
I respectfully recommend that this last spelling be adopted as the approved form of the name to be used in the publications of the Church.
It is interesting to note that nowhere outside the Doctrine and Covenants, and the writings of our own people is the name used as an adjective. We so use it in speaking of the MELCHIZEDEK PRIESTHOOD. The New Standard Dictionary gives MELCHISEDICIAN and MELCHIZEDEKIAN. as the adjective forms derived from the proper nouns MELCHISEDEC and MELCHIZEDEK. I do not think a departure from our usage in this particular is advisable.
Should you deem it wise to make a ruling as to an approved form of spelling, I respectfully suggest that notice thereof be sent to each of our Church publications, at home and abroad, and, if deemed advisable, that a brief article on the subject be published.
Respectfully your brother in the Gospel,
(Signed)
[James E. Talmage, Diary]
This evening's issue of the Deseret News contained the official announcement on reverse side of this sheet. This is the outcome of a report which I recently made to the First Presidency
and Twelve, copy of which follows:
Salt Lake City, Utah.
May 11, 1915.
President Joseph F. Smith and Counselors,
City.
Dear Brethren:
I have received an inquiry from the Presiding Bishop's Office relative to the correct or approved spelling of the proper name by which the Higher Priesthood is distinctively designated. Numerous questions relating to the same subject have come to me from unofficial sources. I venture to suggest, inasmuch as uniformity in the matter is greatly to be desired, that a ruling be made as to the approved spelling of the name to be used in our Church literature.
I submit for your consideration the following facts:
In the Old Testament MELCHIZEDEK, and in the New Testament MELCHISEDEC appear.
In literature other than scriptural both the foregoing forms are used with a decided preponderance in favor of the first.
Funk and Wagnalls "Standard Encyclopedia", the Encyclopedia Britannica, Smith's Bible Dictionary, and the Standard Bible Dictionary all give preference to MELCHIZEDEK.
The Century Dictionary adopts the same spelling but gives as an alternative form the New Testament spelling MELCHISEDEC.
The only work of recognized authority examined by me which gives the New Testament form first place is the New Standard Dictionary; and this specifies the more common MELCHIZEDEK as correct.
The Book of Mormon spelling is the same as that in the Old Testament, MELCHIZEDEK.
The Doctrine and Covenants introduces a spelling found nowhere else except in the writings of some of our own people, namely, MELCHISEDEK. Another variant form used only by some of our own writers is MELCHIZEDEC.
From the foregoing it will be seen that the spelling almost universally used by Theologians and writers in general outside of our Church is MELCHIZEDEK; and this is the form given in both the Old Testament and the Book of Mormon.
I respectfully recommend that this last spelling be adopted as the approved form of the name to be used in the publications of the Church.
It is interesting to note that nowhere outside the Doctrine and Covenants, and the writings of our own people is the name used as an adjective. We so use it in speaking of the MELCHIZEDEK PRIESTHOOD. The New Standard Dictionary gives MELCHISEDICIAN and MELCHIZEDEKIAN. as the adjective forms derived from the proper nouns MELCHISEDEC and MELCHIZEDEK. I do not think a departure from our usage in this particular is advisable.
Should you deem it wise to make a ruling as to an approved form of spelling, I respectfully suggest that notice thereof be sent to each of our Church publications, at home and abroad, and, if deemed advisable, that a brief article on the subject be published.
Respectfully your brother in the Gospel,
(Signed)
[James E. Talmage, Diary]
135 years ago today - May 25, 1885 (Monday)
Elders Wiley G. Cragun and Franklin A. Fraughton were mobbed in South Carolina; Fraughton received forty lashes with a whip and Cragun was shot in the chin.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
160 years ago today - May 25, 1860
The [Pony] Express arived From Calafornia Bringing a report that Indians have Commenced war upon the whites & have killed sixty men somewhare about the sink of the Carson. They have broaken up the mail Stations on the middle route From Camp Floyd to Carson & have killed some of the men one of the Streep[an/er?] Boys who lived in the 14 ward. The Mail Carriers & Mail is said to have been destroyed. The Express Boy was also shot at who brought word.
The Eastern Express also arived this Morning 5 days From St Joseph's & News 6 days From washington.
President Young got a letter From Capt Hooper saying that the Bills to organize Five New Territories was rejected in the House. The Homestead Bill was killed in the senate. Abram Lincoln of Illinois was nominated By the republican Convention For President & Hannibal Hamblin of Maine For Vice President. The ship Tapscott was Chartered by the Saints in Liverpool to bring 700 Saints to New York. Asa Calkings will Come with them.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
The Eastern Express also arived this Morning 5 days From St Joseph's & News 6 days From washington.
President Young got a letter From Capt Hooper saying that the Bills to organize Five New Territories was rejected in the House. The Homestead Bill was killed in the senate. Abram Lincoln of Illinois was nominated By the republican Convention For President & Hannibal Hamblin of Maine For Vice President. The ship Tapscott was Chartered by the Saints in Liverpool to bring 700 Saints to New York. Asa Calkings will Come with them.
[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 - May 25, 1855
The grasshoppers are doing very much damage to the crops yet there are much wheat which looks well and bids fair for a good crop[.] The people seem to be in good spirits fighting grasshoppers and planting & sowing where the crops are eaten up.
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
75 years ago today - May 24, 1945
[Joseph Fielding Smith]
The regular council meeting of the First Presidency and the Apostles was held in the Temple with President Smith presiding. For several years we have held these meetings without the presence of President Grant, only occasionally, and during the past two years scarcely at all.
[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]
The regular council meeting of the First Presidency and the Apostles was held in the Temple with President Smith presiding. For several years we have held these meetings without the presence of President Grant, only occasionally, and during the past two years scarcely at all.
[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]
125 years ago today - May 24, 1895
[Apostle Francis M. Lyman]
I was told that my talk on statehood would hurt the cause. Riley Huntsman said "it was that same old church influence being used"
[Excerpts of Apostle Francis M. Lyman Diaries, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
I was told that my talk on statehood would hurt the cause. Riley Huntsman said "it was that same old church influence being used"
[Excerpts of Apostle Francis M. Lyman Diaries, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
150 years ago today - May 24, 1870
[Wilford Woodruff]
24 I went to the farm & spent the day fighting grass hoppers & choreing.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
24 I went to the farm & spent the day fighting grass hoppers & choreing.
[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 - Saturday, May 24th, 1845
[John Taylor]
... we repaired to the Temple with great secrecy for the purpose of laying the [capstone] corner stone, there were but few that knew about it; the band playing on the walls and the people hearing it, hurried up. About six o'clock A.M., the brethren being assembled, we proceeded to lay the stone; at quarter past six the stone was laid; after which Bro. Young prayed, his voice being heard distinctly, by the congregation below; and the congregation shouted Hossanna, Hossanna, Hossanna to God and the Lamb, Amen, Amen, and Amen. ...
['The John Taylor Nauvoo journal, January 1845-September 1845,' BYU Studies 23:3 (1983) edited by Dean C. Jessee]
... we repaired to the Temple with great secrecy for the purpose of laying the [capstone] corner stone, there were but few that knew about it; the band playing on the walls and the people hearing it, hurried up. About six o'clock A.M., the brethren being assembled, we proceeded to lay the stone; at quarter past six the stone was laid; after which Bro. Young prayed, his voice being heard distinctly, by the congregation below; and the congregation shouted Hossanna, Hossanna, Hossanna to God and the Lamb, Amen, Amen, and Amen. ...
['The John Taylor Nauvoo journal, January 1845-September 1845,' BYU Studies 23:3 (1983) edited by Dean C. Jessee]
175 years ago today - May24, 1845
Sister Young came in & brought a bottle of wine from Sister Clark The president [Brigham Young] gave a toast.- and all responded.-
Wm [William] Smith asked the views of the council about his patriarchal office.- Prest Young said it was his right.-
Wm Smith received his patriarchal blessing by Prest Young.- [Apostle William Smith becomes Patriarch to the Church, even though the previous day, the Twelve had discussed his "improper course" and as "the greatest danger". He is the first Presiding Patriarch ordained by apostolic authority, rather than by patriarchal ordination within the Smith family.]
[Minutes of Quorum of Twelve Apostles, May 24, 1845 [Willard Richards]]
Wm [William] Smith asked the views of the council about his patriarchal office.- Prest Young said it was his right.-
Wm Smith received his patriarchal blessing by Prest Young.- [Apostle William Smith becomes Patriarch to the Church, even though the previous day, the Twelve had discussed his "improper course" and as "the greatest danger". He is the first Presiding Patriarch ordained by apostolic authority, rather than by patriarchal ordination within the Smith family.]
[Minutes of Quorum of Twelve Apostles, May 24, 1845 [Willard Richards]]
110 years ago today - Monday, May 23, 1910
[John Henry Smith]
We had a most excelent time Watching the [Halley's] Commet and seeing the Eclipse of the moon and eat[ing] Cake, Cream and strawberry[s].
[Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith]
We had a most excelent time Watching the [Halley's] Commet and seeing the Eclipse of the moon and eat[ing] Cake, Cream and strawberry[s].
[Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith]
115 years ago today - May 23, 1905 (Tuesday)
Elder Junius F. Wells in behalf of the Church purchased the Mack farm, in Sharon, Windsor Co., Vermont, where the Prophet Joseph Smith was born.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
135 years ago today - May 23, 1885 (Saturday)
Elder August Valentine, who labored as a missionary on Bornholm, Denmark, was arrested for preaching the gospel. He was brought to Copenhagen, and there imprisoned for five days, after which he was banished from the country.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
145 years ago today - May 23, 1875
[Wilford Woodruff]
We dined at Bishop Hess 6 of us 4 Bishops & 2 Apostles. We Counted up to see how many living Children we 6 men had and we found that we had 147 living Children making it equally divided 24 1/2 each.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
We dined at Bishop Hess 6 of us 4 Bishops & 2 Apostles. We Counted up to see how many living Children we 6 men had and we found that we had 147 living Children making it equally divided 24 1/2 each.
[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 - May 23, 1860
DESERET NEWS editorial: "Murder after murder has been committed with impunity within the precincts of Great Sale Lake City, till such occurrences no not seemingly attract much attention, particularly when the murdered have had the reputation of being thieves and murderers or of associating with such characters from day to day . . ."
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
165 years ago today - May 23, 1855
[Samuel Richards]
"I attended the High Priests Quorum meeting at which Elder Curtis E. Bolton was tried for taking a woman and getting her pregnant which Bro. Brigham had allowed him to adopt into his family as a daughter. She had been heretofore his wife but during his late mission, she had been married to two other men, and had a child by one of the men who was a California Emigrant. . . . He was disfellowshipped from the Quorum, subject to the revision of Prest. Young when he returned from his southern expedition."
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
"I attended the High Priests Quorum meeting at which Elder Curtis E. Bolton was tried for taking a woman and getting her pregnant which Bro. Brigham had allowed him to adopt into his family as a daughter. She had been heretofore his wife but during his late mission, she had been married to two other men, and had a child by one of the men who was a California Emigrant. . . . He was disfellowshipped from the Quorum, subject to the revision of Prest. Young when he returned from his southern expedition."
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
165 years ago today - May 23, 1855
[James Henry Martineau]
Zilpha, wife of Elder G. A. Smith spoke in tongues with great power: also Job P. Hall: and Prest J. C. L. Smith sang in tongues. Prest Smith gave the interpretation of Sister Zilpha's tongue, which was to encourage the missionaries; and warned and reproved the sisters for their non-compliance with the law of celestial marriage, and predicted many things that should come upon them, and the trials shortly to come upon the saints.
[An Uncommon Common Pioneer: The Journals of James Henry Martineau 1828-1918, edited by Donald G. Godfrey XXX Rebecca S. Martineau-McCarty]
Zilpha, wife of Elder G. A. Smith spoke in tongues with great power: also Job P. Hall: and Prest J. C. L. Smith sang in tongues. Prest Smith gave the interpretation of Sister Zilpha's tongue, which was to encourage the missionaries; and warned and reproved the sisters for their non-compliance with the law of celestial marriage, and predicted many things that should come upon them, and the trials shortly to come upon the saints.
[An Uncommon Common Pioneer: The Journals of James Henry Martineau 1828-1918, edited by Donald G. Godfrey XXX Rebecca S. Martineau-McCarty]
175 years ago today - May 23, 1845, Friday
Wm. Smith is coming out in opposition to the Twelve and in favor of [George J.] Adams. The latter has organized a church at Augusta, Iowa Territory with young Joseph Smith [III] for President, Wm. Smith for Patriarch, Jared Carter for President of the stake and himself for spokesman to Joseph. Wm. says he has sealed some women to men and he considers he is not accountable to Brigham nor the Twelve nor any one else. There is more danger from William than from any other source, and I fear his course will bring us much trouble.
...I presented to them a proposition to write a short history of the building of the Temple from its commencement, together with other matters and deposite the history in the corner stone, about to be laid tomorrow. They acquiesced with the plan. ...
all the stone on the outside of the wall was laid, except, the south-east corner stone. This progress was a great rejoicing to the Saints.
The Rigdonites have prophecied that the walls would never be built, but through the blessing of God we have lived to see the predicition come to naught.
[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]
...I presented to them a proposition to write a short history of the building of the Temple from its commencement, together with other matters and deposite the history in the corner stone, about to be laid tomorrow. They acquiesced with the plan. ...
all the stone on the outside of the wall was laid, except, the south-east corner stone. This progress was a great rejoicing to the Saints.
The Rigdonites have prophecied that the walls would never be built, but through the blessing of God we have lived to see the predicition come to naught.
[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]
195 years ago today - May 23, 1825
The Lewiston convention publishes "Revelations of Freemasonry" to suppliment William Morgan's expose', focusing on higher order Masonry (America)
[Homer, Michael, 'Similarity of Priesthood in Masonry':The Relationship Between Freemasonry and Mormonism, Dialogue, Vol. 27, No. 3]
[Homer, Michael, 'Similarity of Priesthood in Masonry':The Relationship Between Freemasonry and Mormonism, Dialogue, Vol. 27, No. 3]
45 years ago today - May 22, 1975
Association of Catholic Communications gives "Gabriel" award to LDS church for "Homefront" public-service advertising which soon receives this award almost yearly.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
90 years ago today - May 22, 1930
[Heber J. Grant]
Brother B. H. Roberts called, and we discussed the contents of his new book, telling him of the feeling of the brethren of the Twelve that they could not approve of some parts of it. He was determined not to make any change and finally requested that we drop the matter for the time being, as he was leaving for California to attend a stake conference and did not feel like discussing the matter. I feel very sorry to think that Brother Roberts is determined to put in the book some things that I think are problematical and cannot be demonstrated. Inasmuch as the Church has furnished him a stenographer while he was in New York and since he returned, to compile this book, I think that before it is published we must come to an understanding as to what shall go into it, and we object emphatically to his putting anything in it that the Presidency and Apostles cannot approve.
[Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
Brother B. H. Roberts called, and we discussed the contents of his new book, telling him of the feeling of the brethren of the Twelve that they could not approve of some parts of it. He was determined not to make any change and finally requested that we drop the matter for the time being, as he was leaving for California to attend a stake conference and did not feel like discussing the matter. I feel very sorry to think that Brother Roberts is determined to put in the book some things that I think are problematical and cannot be demonstrated. Inasmuch as the Church has furnished him a stenographer while he was in New York and since he returned, to compile this book, I think that before it is published we must come to an understanding as to what shall go into it, and we object emphatically to his putting anything in it that the Presidency and Apostles cannot approve.
[Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
95 years ago today - May 22,1925
Deseret News editorializes in favor of new Utah law which legalizes horse racing and pari-mutual betting. Legislature has appointed Brigham F. Grant as chair of Racing Commission. He is manager of Deseret News and brother of church president, Heber J. Grant.
[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]
175 years ago today - May 22, 1845
Brigham Young (aged 43) marriage to Mary Elizabeth Rollins (1818-1910) (aged 26) married to non-Mormon Adam Lightner and plural widow of Joseph Smith, Jr. sealed to Joseph Smith, Jr. for eternity and Young for time; remained living with Lightner
[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 - May 22, 1835
[Heber C. Kimball]
"I told him [a baptist preacher] if he did not repent of his sins, and be baptized for the remission of them, he would be damned; which made him mad."
"We then passed on until we came to a pure stream of water, and there cleansed our feet bearing testimony against him, as the Lord commanded."
[Whitney, Helen Mar, Jeni Broberg Holzapfel, and Richard Neitzel Holzapfel, A Woman's View: Helen Mar Whitney's Reminiscences of Early Church History, Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 1997]
"I told him [a baptist preacher] if he did not repent of his sins, and be baptized for the remission of them, he would be damned; which made him mad."
"We then passed on until we came to a pure stream of water, and there cleansed our feet bearing testimony against him, as the Lord commanded."
[Whitney, Helen Mar, Jeni Broberg Holzapfel, and Richard Neitzel Holzapfel, A Woman's View: Helen Mar Whitney's Reminiscences of Early Church History, Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 1997]
30 years ago today - May 21, 1990
U.S. Supreme Court rules that direct donations to LDS missionaries are not deductible under U.S. tax laws. Therefore, First Presidency advises church members to make their donations directly to church, while earmarking funds for individual missionaries.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
45 years ago today - May 21, 1975
[Ezra Taft Benson]
"I had this bad habit—I guess you call it bad," he explained, "of laying things on the line economically just as hard and cold as I could based on the facts, so they'd register with people, and not giving them a lot of soft soap, try and build up good will immediately."
[Ezra Taft Benson, Oral History, Interviewed by Maclyn Burg, May 21, 1975, 23–24, Dwight D. Eisenhower Library, Abilene, Kansas.; Gary James Bergera, '"Rising above Principle": Ezra Taft Benson as U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, 1953-61, Part 1', Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought (Fall 2008, v 41)]
"I had this bad habit—I guess you call it bad," he explained, "of laying things on the line economically just as hard and cold as I could based on the facts, so they'd register with people, and not giving them a lot of soft soap, try and build up good will immediately."
[Ezra Taft Benson, Oral History, Interviewed by Maclyn Burg, May 21, 1975, 23–24, Dwight D. Eisenhower Library, Abilene, Kansas.; Gary James Bergera, '"Rising above Principle": Ezra Taft Benson as U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, 1953-61, Part 1', Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought (Fall 2008, v 41)]
55 years ago today - May 21, 1965
Priesthood blessings are restored to excommunicated apostle John W. Taylor. His son Raymond Taylor stands proxy as Apostle Joseph Fielding Smith performs the ordinance. His other son Samuel W. Taylor writes: "it is an error to say that my father "apostatized." He never did. He accepted the role of scapegoat for the welfare of the Church, as his reinstatement certifies. And as further evidence, my mother, his third wife, continued to receive her share of his salary as an apostle each month for the remainder of her life. I took the check to the Farmers and Merchants Bank in Provo, with strict orders to deliver it to Brother Olson and nobody else." On the question of reinstatement of Taylor's three post-manifesto plural marriages the decision was "if the Lord should judge Brother Taylor in being justified in his last three marriages, he can adjust it in the realms beyond the grave."
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
75 years ago today - May 21, 1945
[Spencer W. Kimball]
[Regarding the reorganization of the First Presidency:] I was impressed especially by the humble, sweet, soul-searching expressions of the Counselors J. Reuben Clark Jr. and David O. McKay who had been in actual leadership of the Church so long and now voluntarily took their places in order of seniority in the Twelve. To see great men weep and shed tears as they evidence love and devotion to their brethren and a Cause is stirring. All spoke including the Patriarch. ...
Pres. Grant had never been to a meeting in the temple since I had been among the authorities.
[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]
[Regarding the reorganization of the First Presidency:] I was impressed especially by the humble, sweet, soul-searching expressions of the Counselors J. Reuben Clark Jr. and David O. McKay who had been in actual leadership of the Church so long and now voluntarily took their places in order of seniority in the Twelve. To see great men weep and shed tears as they evidence love and devotion to their brethren and a Cause is stirring. All spoke including the Patriarch. ...
Pres. Grant had never been to a meeting in the temple since I had been among the authorities.
[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]
75 years ago today - May 21, 1945
Conference sustains George Albert Smith as church president with J. Reuben Clark and David O. McKay as counselors. He is "set apart" (not ordained) by Apostle George F. Richards, who is also a patriarch. Smith is only unmarried man to become LDS church president an only one who has no marital companion during his entire presidency. He remains unmarried widower last fourteen years of his life.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
120 years ago today - May 21, 1900; Monday
[Angus M. Cannon]
I spoke to Bro[ther]. [Charles W.] Penrose about an article he wrote for the [Improvement] Era, calling the woman of Endor a witch. I told him Pres[ident]. John Taylor told me in spring of 1855, that the Prophet Joseph [Smith], said that woman was a prophetess of God, who dwelt in seclusion because of the edict of Sam[ue]l. against any one possessing a fermiliar [sic] spirit. Parley P. Pratt, when I mentioned the same thing to him, in fall of 1856, he said she was one of Samuels wives.
[Angus M. Cannon, Diary]
I spoke to Bro[ther]. [Charles W.] Penrose about an article he wrote for the [Improvement] Era, calling the woman of Endor a witch. I told him Pres[ident]. John Taylor told me in spring of 1855, that the Prophet Joseph [Smith], said that woman was a prophetess of God, who dwelt in seclusion because of the edict of Sam[ue]l. against any one possessing a fermiliar [sic] spirit. Parley P. Pratt, when I mentioned the same thing to him, in fall of 1856, he said she was one of Samuels wives.
[Angus M. Cannon, Diary]
135 years ago today - May 21, 1885 (Thursday)
Elder John P. Ibsen, while preaching the gospel in a private house on Bornholm, Denmark, was arrested and brought to Ronne, where he was tried and imprisoned three days for preaching. Soon afterwards he was sent as a prisoner to Copenhagen.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
160 years ago today - May 21, 1860
Brigham Young's office journal comments on a letter sent by the Church to President Buchanan: "This was an interesting letter, it commented upon the prostitution which had always attended monogamy, both in the days of the Romans and in all modern nations; also remarking that the Nations who practiced polygamy were to a far greater extent free from Harlots."
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
165 years ago today - May 21, 1855
[Wilford Woodruff]
I got an Indian boy of Brother James Bosnel. He was about a doz years of age. His name was Moroni Eliga Bosnel.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
I got an Indian boy of Brother James Bosnel. He was about a doz years of age. His name was Moroni Eliga Bosnel.
[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 - May 21, 1855
[Brigham Young]
The Seventies are Apostles, differing a little from the Twelve Apostles in their calling. When the Kingdom is organized more fully upon the earth, a Seventy will not be chosen as a Bishop's counselor, a Bishop, or even as a President of a stake.... ... D.B. Huntington at a meeting of the natives last evening cut off your old Indian chief because he would not work, and appointed a young man as chief in his place, that would work and Kenosha has had to come to it at last. Bro. Kenosha said that we chiefs should work, and when they ceased to work, they ceased to be a chief, as Bro. D. said that our chiefs did work.
[General Church Minutes, quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
The Seventies are Apostles, differing a little from the Twelve Apostles in their calling. When the Kingdom is organized more fully upon the earth, a Seventy will not be chosen as a Bishop's counselor, a Bishop, or even as a President of a stake.... ... D.B. Huntington at a meeting of the natives last evening cut off your old Indian chief because he would not work, and appointed a young man as chief in his place, that would work and Kenosha has had to come to it at last. Bro. Kenosha said that we chiefs should work, and when they ceased to work, they ceased to be a chief, as Bro. D. said that our chiefs did work.
[General Church Minutes, quoted in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
175 years ago today - May 21, 1845
Trial begins in Carthage, Illinois of five men charged with the murder of Joseph Smith. All are acquitted.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
May 20, 1940
[J. Reuben Clark]
Pres McKay: 830 a.m. Talked about the war: found him so pro-ally he is ready to go to war, almost,'probably no so much pro-ally as anti-Hitler. ...
[The Diaries of J. Reuben Clark, 1933-1961, Abridged, Digital Edition, Salt Lake City, Utah 2015]
Pres McKay: 830 a.m. Talked about the war: found him so pro-ally he is ready to go to war, almost,'probably no so much pro-ally as anti-Hitler. ...
[The Diaries of J. Reuben Clark, 1933-1961, Abridged, Digital Edition, Salt Lake City, Utah 2015]
130 years ago today - Tuesday, May 20, 1890
[Apostle John Henry Smith]
The morning papers announce that the Supreme Court has decided to confiscate our Church property, Fuller, Lamar & Field Dissenting.
[Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith]
The morning papers announce that the Supreme Court has decided to confiscate our Church property, Fuller, Lamar & Field Dissenting.
[Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith]
May 20, 1885
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff]
20 I receivd 2 letter from Sarah & Mary & wrote 3 Letters to Sarah Newton & Mary. I looked over my sealing record & found I had sealed 1,095 Couple up to Jan 1885. W Woodruff had sealed to him of his dead relatives {336}.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
20 I receivd 2 letter from Sarah & Mary & wrote 3 Letters to Sarah Newton & Mary. I looked over my sealing record & found I had sealed 1,095 Couple up to Jan 1885. W Woodruff had sealed to him of his dead relatives {336}.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
May 20, 1855
"Elder E[zra] T. Benson exhibited part of an ancient sword which had been dug up about 10 ft. under ground while excavating for a well, which called forth a few remarks from him."
55 years ago today - May 19, 1965
By authorization of First Presidency, ex-apostle John W. Taylor is baptized into LDS church. On May 21 Apostle Joseph Fielding Smith performs proxy ordinance of restoring all priesthood blessings to the deceased apostle.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
105 years ago today - May 19, 1915
President Charles W. Penrose of the First Presidency dedicates the cornerstone of the new Church Office Building (later known as the Church Administration Building) at 45 East South Temple in Salt Lake City, Utah.
120 years ago today - May 19, 1900; Saturday
... Mr. John W. Rigdon, son of the late Sidney Rigdon, called and met President Snow this morning in the Beehive House, and afterwards met Presidents Cannon and Smith in the office. The President reported that he had a very pleasant conversation with Mr. Rigdon who talked freely to him. During the conversation Mr. Rigdon admitted that he once had doubts concerning the authenticity of the Book of Mormon; but after talking with his father on his deathbed those doubts were removed partially, and his investigations and reflections since then had tended fully to confirm in his mind the truthfulness of his father's dying testimony. He, in talking with his father during his last hours said, "Father, you are now an old man, and I want you to tell me if you still believe the Book of Mormon to be what it represents to be, and if Joseph Smith always maintained that it was true and a genuine record?" His father answered in the most solemn manner that it was a true and genuine record, and that Joseph Smith always maintained its genuineness, and that he translated it by the gift and power of God from the gold plates shown to him by the angel. Mr. Rigdon said that for the last six years he had believed the Book of Mormon to be what it represents to be, but he said he was sorry to say his wife and children not only disbelieve it, but regard the Mormons as enemies, that they spoke very harshly of them, and they would sometimes talk against his own father, but which however, they had ceased to do in his presence. He said his father died an unhappy man, but in hopes and assurance of a glorious resurrection.
[First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
[First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
130 years ago today - May 19, 1890
[Wilford Woodruff]
The Supreme Court of the United States Decided to day Against the Church of Jesus Christ of latter Day Saints. They Decided to Escheat all the Church Property Real & Personal. This is turning the Last that will seal the Condemnation of this Nation.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
The Supreme Court of the United States Decided to day Against the Church of Jesus Christ of latter Day Saints. They Decided to Escheat all the Church Property Real & Personal. This is turning the Last that will seal the Condemnation of this Nation.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
130 years ago today - May 19, 1890
U.S. Supreme Court upholds the Edmunds-Tucker Act and confiscation of LDS properties ruling that the LDS church had engaged in illegal activities; committee of U.S. Senate recommends disfranchisement bill.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
160 years ago today - May 19, 1860
Brigham Young remarks "while talking over the untimely deaths of Brewer & Johnson, [two men found shot to death two days previously in Salt Lake City] that he was much gratified that the time had come when mormons could not be insulted mobbed and destroyed as they once were." Wilford Woodruff referred to Brewer and Johnson as "both Desperate wicked men."
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
170 years ago today - May 19, 1850
[Brigham Young]
President Young explained the law of property tithing. He said, suppose a man owes a hundred thousand dollars when he comes into the church. He pays 10,000 which is his property tithing in full. Then suppose that a man takes his family and effects to come on to the church and trades and exchanges on the way and clears 20,000 dollars besides paying his expenses. He then owes 2,000 dollars tithing which is all the property tithing due etc. -- 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]
President Young explained the law of property tithing. He said, suppose a man owes a hundred thousand dollars when he comes into the church. He pays 10,000 which is his property tithing in full. Then suppose that a man takes his family and effects to come on to the church and trades and exchanges on the way and clears 20,000 dollars besides paying his expenses. He then owes 2,000 dollars tithing which is all the property tithing due etc. -- 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]
175 years ago today - May 19, 1845
The trial of five men accused of the murder of Joseph Smith begins in Carthage, Illinois. Judge Richard M. Young begins by empanelling a 23-man Grand Jury which contains nine Mormons including the foreman Daniel Spencer. He then empanels two "petit juries" of 24 men each. The first contains ten Mormons and the second eleven. Upon defense motion the juries are discharged and new juries chosen from men present at the trial. Since Mormon leaders instructed them to keep away from the trial there are only four Mormons among the 96 potential jurors and no Mormons on the final twelve-man jury.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
35 years ago today - May 18, 1985
[East German Secret Police report]
"In the May 18, 1985, political-operational report of Department XX … regarding the political-ideological orientation of the US-American Mormons, it was determined that they are to be classified as representatives of the right wing of American conservatism. There are close connections between their leadership and ruling circles within the government [at that time the Reagan administration]. Relationships also exist between persons and institutions of the church and the American secret service."
[Karlheinz Leonhardt, Die Ersten Hundert Jahre, 358 (1985 internal report by Stasi, the East German secret police) as referenced in Gregory A. Prince and Wm. Robert Write, David O. McKay and the Rise of Modern Mormonism. Salt Lake City: University of Utah Press (2005)]
"In the May 18, 1985, political-operational report of Department XX … regarding the political-ideological orientation of the US-American Mormons, it was determined that they are to be classified as representatives of the right wing of American conservatism. There are close connections between their leadership and ruling circles within the government [at that time the Reagan administration]. Relationships also exist between persons and institutions of the church and the American secret service."
[Karlheinz Leonhardt, Die Ersten Hundert Jahre, 358 (1985 internal report by Stasi, the East German secret police) as referenced in Gregory A. Prince and Wm. Robert Write, David O. McKay and the Rise of Modern Mormonism. Salt Lake City: University of Utah Press (2005)]
70 years ago today - May 18, 1950
First Presidency letter to make 30 percent increase in living allowances for general authorities.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
75 years ago today - May 18, 1945
[Spencer W. Kimball]
It [i.e., Heber J. Grant's funeral] was most impressive and inspiring to me when [Senior member] Pres. George Albert Smith stood at the pulpit, called the meeting to order and announced that PRESIDENT J. REUBEN CLARK, Counselor to Pres. Grant would conduct the services. Then when Pres. Clark announced the speakers he said 'President' George Albert Smith will now address us etc' then 'ELDER DAVID O. MCKAY OF THE COUNCIL OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES will address you' then 'ELDER J. REUBEN CLARK JR. OF THE COUNCIL OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES will address you' Such humility!!! Such power!!! Such honor!!! (Most any where else in the world that I know if, there would have been evidence of ambition, envy, jealousy, ill felling) It is the work of the Lord. These are truly great and inspired and 'called' men of God who have been leading the Church through the declining days and months and years of Pres. Grants presidency.
[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]
It [i.e., Heber J. Grant's funeral] was most impressive and inspiring to me when [Senior member] Pres. George Albert Smith stood at the pulpit, called the meeting to order and announced that PRESIDENT J. REUBEN CLARK, Counselor to Pres. Grant would conduct the services. Then when Pres. Clark announced the speakers he said 'President' George Albert Smith will now address us etc' then 'ELDER DAVID O. MCKAY OF THE COUNCIL OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES will address you' then 'ELDER J. REUBEN CLARK JR. OF THE COUNCIL OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES will address you' Such humility!!! Such power!!! Such honor!!! (Most any where else in the world that I know if, there would have been evidence of ambition, envy, jealousy, ill felling) It is the work of the Lord. These are truly great and inspired and 'called' men of God who have been leading the Church through the declining days and months and years of Pres. Grants presidency.
[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]
135 years ago today - Monday, May 18, 1885
[John Henry Smith]
Bros. Francis C. Gunnell myself and five other brethren went over to Lyman [Idaho] and held meeting. I presented Bp. Weeks to the Saints to be sustained. 14 voted in his favor and 18 against. He resigned and his resignation was accepted. The people voted unanimously to sustain Bro. George Arnold as a presiding priest.
[Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith]
Bros. Francis C. Gunnell myself and five other brethren went over to Lyman [Idaho] and held meeting. I presented Bp. Weeks to the Saints to be sustained. 14 voted in his favor and 18 against. He resigned and his resignation was accepted. The people voted unanimously to sustain Bro. George Arnold as a presiding priest.
[Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith]
135 years ago today - May 18, 1885
John Taylor tells Abraham H. Cannon, "It seems that some so-called Saints in various parts of the country are beginning to weaken and talk of compromise. Some of the leading men in Idaho are even in this frame of mind. Such talk is an evidence to me of utter lack of faith in God and His promises." Five years later WIlford Woodruff issues the Manifesto.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
180 years ago today - May 18, 1840
Mary Pitt had not walked except on crutches for 11 years. Was healed by laying on of hands.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
55 years ago today - May 17, 1965
Ezra Taft Benson wrote to FBI director Edgar Hoover with a plea. "Word has come to me, not yet fully confirmed, that some of our liberal 'soft-on-communist' groups are planning to put pressure on you to come out with a statement against the John Birch Society." He urged Hoover not to do so. "It is my conviction that this organization is the most effective non-church group in America against creeping socialism and godless communism," Benson wrote.
Hoover, however, in response to a question at a news conference soon thereafter, said he had little respect for the society or its founder, Robert Welch.
After Hoover's disavowal of Welch, Benson decided to meet with Hoover to explain his support of the society and how Welch's writings had convinced him that Eisenhower aided communism.
Files show that Hoover's aides twice told Benson that he was unavailable for such a meeting — as memos had advised them to do. So Benson wrote Hoover the sensitive "personal-confidential" letter of May 28, 1965, outlining his conclusions about Eisenhower.
Benson also soon sent a book by Welch titled The Politician, noting it was what led him to his conclusions about Eisenhower.
In the book, Welch argues that Eisenhower was either ignorant, a politician blinded by opportunism or was "consciously aiding the communist conspiracy" — and said it really didn't matter because "they all come to the same end … namely tragedy."
Benson wrote Hoover that he inscribed the following words on the flyleaf of the book after he first read it:
"Have just finished this shocking volume. ... While I do not agree with all or the extent of some of the author's conclusions, one must agree that the documented record makes the thesis of the book most convincing.
"How can a man [Eisenhower] who seems to be so strong for Christian principles and base American concepts be so effectively used as a tool to serve the communist conspiracy?
"I believe the answer is found in the fact that these godless communist conspirators and their fellow travelers are masters of deceit — who deceived the very elect. How our people need to be alerted and informed."
Benson added that he hoped the $1 book would be made available widely.
"This story must be told even at the risk of destroying the influence of men who are widely respected and loved by the American people. The stakes are high. Freedom and survival are the issues," he had written in his copy of the book.
Benson also wrote of Eisenhower: "I presume I will never know in this life why he did some of the things he did which gave help to the [communist] conspiracy. It is not my divine prerogative to know the motives of men. It is easier, however, to judge the consequences of man's actions."
["Ike and the Birch Society," Lee Davidson, Salt Lake Tribune, November 16, 2010]
Hoover, however, in response to a question at a news conference soon thereafter, said he had little respect for the society or its founder, Robert Welch.
After Hoover's disavowal of Welch, Benson decided to meet with Hoover to explain his support of the society and how Welch's writings had convinced him that Eisenhower aided communism.
Files show that Hoover's aides twice told Benson that he was unavailable for such a meeting — as memos had advised them to do. So Benson wrote Hoover the sensitive "personal-confidential" letter of May 28, 1965, outlining his conclusions about Eisenhower.
Benson also soon sent a book by Welch titled The Politician, noting it was what led him to his conclusions about Eisenhower.
In the book, Welch argues that Eisenhower was either ignorant, a politician blinded by opportunism or was "consciously aiding the communist conspiracy" — and said it really didn't matter because "they all come to the same end … namely tragedy."
Benson wrote Hoover that he inscribed the following words on the flyleaf of the book after he first read it:
"Have just finished this shocking volume. ... While I do not agree with all or the extent of some of the author's conclusions, one must agree that the documented record makes the thesis of the book most convincing.
"How can a man [Eisenhower] who seems to be so strong for Christian principles and base American concepts be so effectively used as a tool to serve the communist conspiracy?
"I believe the answer is found in the fact that these godless communist conspirators and their fellow travelers are masters of deceit — who deceived the very elect. How our people need to be alerted and informed."
Benson added that he hoped the $1 book would be made available widely.
"This story must be told even at the risk of destroying the influence of men who are widely respected and loved by the American people. The stakes are high. Freedom and survival are the issues," he had written in his copy of the book.
Benson also wrote of Eisenhower: "I presume I will never know in this life why he did some of the things he did which gave help to the [communist] conspiracy. It is not my divine prerogative to know the motives of men. It is easier, however, to judge the consequences of man's actions."
["Ike and the Birch Society," Lee Davidson, Salt Lake Tribune, November 16, 2010]
80 years ago today - May 17, 1940
[President Heber J. Grant]
They have re-elected me as a director of the Union Pacific Railroad, also of the Oregon Short Line Railroad, and the Salt Lake Los Angeles Railroad.
[Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
They have re-elected me as a director of the Union Pacific Railroad, also of the Oregon Short Line Railroad, and the Salt Lake Los Angeles Railroad.
[Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
90 years ago today - May 17, 1930
International Hygiene exposition at Dresden, Germany, includes LDS exhibit on Word of Wisdom. This is church's first formal participation in national or international exposition. In 1933, church has exhibit which includes sculptures by Avard Fairbanks in Hall of Religion at Century of Progress Exposition in Chicago. In 1935 church has its first exhibit building at California-Pacific International Exposition in San Diego.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
120 years ago today - May 17, 1900; Thursday
[Lorenzo Snow and George Q. Cannon, letter to Bishop George W. Bramwell]
We have just had a conversation with Brother Grant Geddes, in regard to your decision in the case of Sister Margaret Geddes [who had confessed to an adulterous affair, but refused to give the name of the man to protect his reputation. He was actually her post-manifesto husband - David Eccles], and have decided that it would be right and proper in this case that you accept of her confession and forgive her transgression without any further requirement.
[See Today in Mormon History, May 16, 1900]
[Lorenzo Snow and George Q. Cannon, letter to George W. Bramwell, typed excerpt in Quinn Papers, original in LDS Archives]
We have just had a conversation with Brother Grant Geddes, in regard to your decision in the case of Sister Margaret Geddes [who had confessed to an adulterous affair, but refused to give the name of the man to protect his reputation. He was actually her post-manifesto husband - David Eccles], and have decided that it would be right and proper in this case that you accept of her confession and forgive her transgression without any further requirement.
[See Today in Mormon History, May 16, 1900]
[Lorenzo Snow and George Q. Cannon, letter to George W. Bramwell, typed excerpt in Quinn Papers, original in LDS Archives]
120 years ago today - May 17, 1900
Apostle George Teasdale (sixty-eight years of age) marries twenty-three-year-old Letitia Dolly Thomas in the Logan Temple. Teasdale had lost four of his five wives through death. He formally divorces the fifth, (after a marriage of 24 years) just prior to this marriage charging that she was unable to have sexual intercourse, an impediment he discovered "immediately after said marriage took place." Teasdale had taken a post-Manfesto plural wife, Marion E. Scoles, three years previously but she had died in childbirth. After Apostle Teasdale's death Letitia married one of his sons (by a previous wife) George Washington Teasdale and thus became her own step-mother-in-law
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
130 years ago today - May 17, 1890
LDS political newspaper SALT LAKE HERALD condemns "the scheme of the conspirators to consummate the political debauchery of making Utah a Republican state."
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
95 years ago today - May 16, 1925
[President Heber J. Grant]
At 9:30 tonight I was called on the phone and learned that President Penrose had just died. It was after midnight before I was able to go to sleep, thinking of the life and labors of President Penrose and who to choose as a successor to him in the Presidency. I shall ask Brother Ivins to be my first counselor and whoever I choose to fill the vacancy in the presidency to be my second counselor. While I naturally would have some personal preferences, I hope and pray to select the man that will be most useful and who will be pleasing to our Heavenly Father.
[Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
At 9:30 tonight I was called on the phone and learned that President Penrose had just died. It was after midnight before I was able to go to sleep, thinking of the life and labors of President Penrose and who to choose as a successor to him in the Presidency. I shall ask Brother Ivins to be my first counselor and whoever I choose to fill the vacancy in the presidency to be my second counselor. While I naturally would have some personal preferences, I hope and pray to select the man that will be most useful and who will be pleasing to our Heavenly Father.
[Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
120 years ago today - May 16, 1900; Wednesday
Bro[ther]. Grant Geddes had a talk with President [Lorenzo Snow]. It appears that his deceased brother's wife (Margaret) who is a widow, has confessed to the a charge of adultery in the Bishop's court, and that the court had given her time to reveal the name of the man [i.e., David Eccles] in transgression with her. This she had refused to do on the grounds that he was a man of family, respected in the community, and to do so would do no good, but only bring reproach upon his family, and add to her mortificaiton. She was willing to make a public confession and ask forgiveness, and desired that she may be permitted to do this in order to retain her standing in the Church. The court held however that she must obey its requirement, and Bro[ther]. Geddes' business was to consult the Presidency in regard to the matter.
[Office Journal of the First Presidency]
[Office Journal of the First Presidency]
120 years ago today - May 16, 1900; Wednesday
Elder Anthon H. Lund called and had a talk this morning with Presidents Snow and Cannon in relation to the employment of Brigham H. Roberts as editor of the proposed history of the Church, Elder John Henry Smith was also present. Brother Lund reported that Elder Roberts, while drawing $1200. a year as compensation for church services, wanted another $2,500. for doing this work, making $3,700 a year. Presidents Snow and Cannon thought this was too much, especially in view of the fact that the work to be done did not require the ability of an author. The names of Elders James E. Talmage and Joseph M. Tanner were mentioned for the honor ... in consequence of a remark of one of the brethren that perhaps President Cannon might be able to do this work, at least so far as supervising it was concerned... President Snow then asked President Cannon if he felt that his physical condition would permit him to undertake the task. President Cannon answered that if this was the mind of President Snow and the committee, he had no other alternative than to place himself at their services, and this he did freely and willingly, promising to give the publication of the work his best attention. Elder Lyman expressed himself more than satisfied at the turn things had taken, and withdrew saying he would seek an interview with Elder B. H. Roberts at once and inform him of it.
[First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
[First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
120 years ago today - Wednesday, May 16, 1900
[Apostle John Henry Smith]
Salt Lake City
I rebaptized and re-confirmed John Henry Evans, he having been guilty of fornication. It was attended to at the Hot spring bath house.
[Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith]
Salt Lake City
I rebaptized and re-confirmed John Henry Evans, he having been guilty of fornication. It was attended to at the Hot spring bath house.
[Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith]
130 years ago today - May 16, 1890
New Canadian law prohibiting polygamy goes into effect. This law closes an existing loophole: previously it had been illegal only to take an additional wife while already married. However a Mormon had publicly pointed out that marrying two wives simultaneously was therefore legal under the existing law.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
150 years ago today - May 16, 1870
[Wilford Woodruff]
16, 17 & 18 I Fought Grasshoppers.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
16, 17 & 18 I Fought Grasshoppers.
[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 - May 16, 1860
Testimony of Jeremiah Stokes and William Green
"I was setting up with the Corpse of Elder John W. Brown about 3 oclok in the morning (Friday May the 4th 1860) When I beheld a vary bright light hovering near the door which Fronts to the west. Near the top of the door on the left side was a Crown shineing Brilliantly below was a Circle of 12 stars also vary bright and Beautiful. On the left was a representation of Br Browns Coffin. On the right lower down was a large Stone the Express image of the one that killed Brother Brown. This light remained without Changing its position one hour and a half. There were two Candles burning in the room but the light far surpassed there Brilliancy.
Brother William Green was also present and testified that the above is Correct and Adds "I saw the light before Brother Stokes and previous to seeing the light on the door I saw on the lid of the Coffin two small looking glasses vary Clear & bright set in Stone. In a moment more I saw Brother John Brown standing on the opposite side of the Coffin. He looked as he did when found after his death. He soon disappeared and then I saw the light on the door.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
"I was setting up with the Corpse of Elder John W. Brown about 3 oclok in the morning (Friday May the 4th 1860) When I beheld a vary bright light hovering near the door which Fronts to the west. Near the top of the door on the left side was a Crown shineing Brilliantly below was a Circle of 12 stars also vary bright and Beautiful. On the left was a representation of Br Browns Coffin. On the right lower down was a large Stone the Express image of the one that killed Brother Brown. This light remained without Changing its position one hour and a half. There were two Candles burning in the room but the light far surpassed there Brilliancy.
Brother William Green was also present and testified that the above is Correct and Adds "I saw the light before Brother Stokes and previous to seeing the light on the door I saw on the lid of the Coffin two small looking glasses vary Clear & bright set in Stone. In a moment more I saw Brother John Brown standing on the opposite side of the Coffin. He looked as he did when found after his death. He soon disappeared and then I saw the light on the door.
[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 - May 16, 1845
[Wilford Woodruff]
16th + I left my family & friends in Liverpool & took the Steemer Victorie for Carlisle at 4 oclock in the afternoon. As soon as we went out of the dock I discoverd the boat was newly Painted so that one could not sit down in any place from the stem to the stern of the boat without carrying the paint with him the whole bigness of the place he sat in or touched. And as the sea began to be rough I found it necessary to get some place to lie down & as the last & ownly resort I paid 2/ shillings for the use of a bunk among the sailors on the fore castle over the bow for the night.
I went below to take my bed among the Sailors which was a small confined place. I had no sooner gone below than I was inveloped in a Stench the most Horrid of any thing I ever experianced. It arose from the cargo which consisted of goano A kind of dung dug out of the earth brought to this country to put on to land. It is supposed to have origionally been birds dung but the worst die pot I ever saw was plesant in comparrison to this stench. I lay down but my stomach was immediately so filled with the stench that it made me as sick as Death.
I immediately commenced vomiting which continued for five hours. At times I gaged upon an empty stomach untill I strained myself to such a degree that blood run out of my nose almost a stream. I suffered much through the night & the sailors smoked their pipes & filled the hole with tobaco smoke. Though this was nacious to me it was much better than the stink that arose from the cargo. And in addition to this the seas were breaking fore & aft over the boat & the boat pitching badly. This with breathing the sent of the paint guano & tobaco smoke made me vomit to that degree that my sufferings were great & I thought it the most horrid night I ever spent on the water.
In the morning I crawled out into the air on deck but felt vary week & feeble. Could scarcely walk. Distance to Port Carlisle 190 miles.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
16th + I left my family & friends in Liverpool & took the Steemer Victorie for Carlisle at 4 oclock in the afternoon. As soon as we went out of the dock I discoverd the boat was newly Painted so that one could not sit down in any place from the stem to the stern of the boat without carrying the paint with him the whole bigness of the place he sat in or touched. And as the sea began to be rough I found it necessary to get some place to lie down & as the last & ownly resort I paid 2/ shillings for the use of a bunk among the sailors on the fore castle over the bow for the night.
I went below to take my bed among the Sailors which was a small confined place. I had no sooner gone below than I was inveloped in a Stench the most Horrid of any thing I ever experianced. It arose from the cargo which consisted of goano A kind of dung dug out of the earth brought to this country to put on to land. It is supposed to have origionally been birds dung but the worst die pot I ever saw was plesant in comparrison to this stench. I lay down but my stomach was immediately so filled with the stench that it made me as sick as Death.
I immediately commenced vomiting which continued for five hours. At times I gaged upon an empty stomach untill I strained myself to such a degree that blood run out of my nose almost a stream. I suffered much through the night & the sailors smoked their pipes & filled the hole with tobaco smoke. Though this was nacious to me it was much better than the stink that arose from the cargo. And in addition to this the seas were breaking fore & aft over the boat & the boat pitching badly. This with breathing the sent of the paint guano & tobaco smoke made me vomit to that degree that my sufferings were great & I thought it the most horrid night I ever spent on the water.
In the morning I crawled out into the air on deck but felt vary week & feeble. Could scarcely walk. Distance to Port Carlisle 190 miles.
[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 - May 16, 1845
[Patriarchal Blessing of Israel Barlow by John Smith]
... Thou shalt have the ministering of Angels. Thou shalt converse with them face to face as with thy familiar friends. This will enable thee to escape all dangers. Thou shalt gather thy thousands & lead them to Zion with much riches. ... Thou shalt live to see the end of this Gentile race ...
[Patriarchal Blessings]
... Thou shalt have the ministering of Angels. Thou shalt converse with them face to face as with thy familiar friends. This will enable thee to escape all dangers. Thou shalt gather thy thousands & lead them to Zion with much riches. ... Thou shalt live to see the end of this Gentile race ...
[Patriarchal Blessings]
45 years ago today - May 15, 1975
U.S. Soldier Ralph Cocroft is killed in Okinawa. Paul H. Dunn later admits that his buddy Harold Lester Brown didn't die in his arms on Okinawa as he said (Brown lived a long life after the war) but that Dunn took "Harold Brown's relationship and combine it with Ralph Cocroft's dying." Cocroft, however, neither lived on, wounded, through the night nor died in Dunn's arms as the story was told concerning Brown.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
70 years ago today - May 15, 1950
The L.D.S. Girls Program administered under the direction of the ward bishoprics to be transferred to the jurisdiction of the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association.
[1950-May 15-Original circular letter, L.D.S. Church Archives, quoted in Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
[1950-May 15-Original circular letter, L.D.S. Church Archives, quoted in Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
90 years ago today - May 15, 1930
[Quorum of Twelve to First Presidency letter]
The Council of the Twelve, to whom was referred the work of Elder B.H. Roberts, 'The Truth, the Way, the Life,' for consideration, beg to report that they do not regard said work in its present form as a suitable study for the Priesthood quorums of the Church.
Their objections to Elder Roberts's work are clearly set forth in the exceptions taken by their sub committee, who with Brother Roberts read the manuscript carefully and discussed the doctrinal points in question. Elder Roberts declined to make the changes or modifications suggested by the Twelve.
Th Twelve now submit herewith a copy of the exceptions referred to and also a letter addressed by Elder Roberts to the sub committee, dated April 28, in which he defines his attitude in regard to his work covered by the manuscript.
Sincerely your brethren,
[Attachment]
Doctrinal points questioned by the Committee which read the Manuscript of Elder B. H. Roberts, entitled ' THE TRUTH, THE WAY, THE LIFE. Ch. Page Subject 16 7 That the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil had in it the seeds of life and death, is questioned by the committee. 19 9 The committee questions the advisability of stating any give time when the spirit unites with the body. This question has never been definitely settled although it has been asked of the First presidency from time to time. The record in the Book of Mormon where Nephi received the word that the savior was to come into the world is not looked upon as a criterion by which we are to be governed. 27 5 Intelligence and Spirit as used in this chapter are confusing terms. The thought may be gathered that 'Intelligence' ' that eternal entity which was not created, may, and some times does, rebel against truth and God. We do not so understand it. Those who revealed in the world of spirits were begotten spirits, who, if they had remained faithful, were prepared to come into this mortal world. The revelation which speaks of intelligence says: 'Man was in the beginning with God.' (when was this beginning?) Then this thought follows: 'Intelligence, or the light of truth, was not created or made, neither indeed can be.' Again we are taught that Light an truth' ' intelligence ' 'forsaketh that evil one.' This being true, and treating intelligence as an entity, then that entity cannot rebel against light an truth, for it would rebel against itself. 27 12 The use of the expression 'Spirit-body of Christ,' and 'the Word,' is not made clear to us, and we are left to wonder if these terms apply to the 'Intelligence' or to the begotten spirit of Jesus Christ. 27 12 The use of 'Mind, spirit, and soul,' appears confusing to us. 29 5 'Baptisms for the remission of sins.' We question the plural. 30 6 The place of man in the order of creation is questioned, as it is taught in this chapter. The expression, 'the first flesh upon the earth also,' is not interpreted by member of the committee as you have expressed it here. We feel that the arguments as give contradict the accounts given in all our scriptures, and more especially in the temple ceremonies. As we understand it the term, 'first flesh also' doe not have reference to Adam as being the first living creature of the creation on the earth, but that he, though the 'fall' became the first 'flesh,' or mortal soul. The term 'flesh' in reference to mortal existence is of common usage. We find it so used in the scriptures. Adam having partaken of the fruit became mortal and subject to death, which was not the condition until that time. We are taught in the Temple as well as in the scriptures that man was the last creation placed upon the earth, before death was introduced. Adam was the first to partake of the change and to become subject to the flesh. This is the view expressed by President Joseph F. Smith and President Anthon H. Lund. ...
This entire chapter deals with the question of 'pre-Adamites. 'This doctrine is not taught by the Church; it is not sustained in the scriptures. It can only be treated as an hypothesis, and the result will be uncertain, confusing, for after all is said it is speculation leading to endless controversy. We are aware that one of the brethren ...
[Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Letter to the First Presidency, 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 Council of the Twelve, to whom was referred the work of Elder B.H. Roberts, 'The Truth, the Way, the Life,' for consideration, beg to report that they do not regard said work in its present form as a suitable study for the Priesthood quorums of the Church.
Their objections to Elder Roberts's work are clearly set forth in the exceptions taken by their sub committee, who with Brother Roberts read the manuscript carefully and discussed the doctrinal points in question. Elder Roberts declined to make the changes or modifications suggested by the Twelve.
Th Twelve now submit herewith a copy of the exceptions referred to and also a letter addressed by Elder Roberts to the sub committee, dated April 28, in which he defines his attitude in regard to his work covered by the manuscript.
Sincerely your brethren,
[Attachment]
Doctrinal points questioned by the Committee which read the Manuscript of Elder B. H. Roberts, entitled ' THE TRUTH, THE WAY, THE LIFE. Ch. Page Subject 16 7 That the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil had in it the seeds of life and death, is questioned by the committee. 19 9 The committee questions the advisability of stating any give time when the spirit unites with the body. This question has never been definitely settled although it has been asked of the First presidency from time to time. The record in the Book of Mormon where Nephi received the word that the savior was to come into the world is not looked upon as a criterion by which we are to be governed. 27 5 Intelligence and Spirit as used in this chapter are confusing terms. The thought may be gathered that 'Intelligence' ' that eternal entity which was not created, may, and some times does, rebel against truth and God. We do not so understand it. Those who revealed in the world of spirits were begotten spirits, who, if they had remained faithful, were prepared to come into this mortal world. The revelation which speaks of intelligence says: 'Man was in the beginning with God.' (when was this beginning?) Then this thought follows: 'Intelligence, or the light of truth, was not created or made, neither indeed can be.' Again we are taught that Light an truth' ' intelligence ' 'forsaketh that evil one.' This being true, and treating intelligence as an entity, then that entity cannot rebel against light an truth, for it would rebel against itself. 27 12 The use of the expression 'Spirit-body of Christ,' and 'the Word,' is not made clear to us, and we are left to wonder if these terms apply to the 'Intelligence' or to the begotten spirit of Jesus Christ. 27 12 The use of 'Mind, spirit, and soul,' appears confusing to us. 29 5 'Baptisms for the remission of sins.' We question the plural. 30 6 The place of man in the order of creation is questioned, as it is taught in this chapter. The expression, 'the first flesh upon the earth also,' is not interpreted by member of the committee as you have expressed it here. We feel that the arguments as give contradict the accounts given in all our scriptures, and more especially in the temple ceremonies. As we understand it the term, 'first flesh also' doe not have reference to Adam as being the first living creature of the creation on the earth, but that he, though the 'fall' became the first 'flesh,' or mortal soul. The term 'flesh' in reference to mortal existence is of common usage. We find it so used in the scriptures. Adam having partaken of the fruit became mortal and subject to death, which was not the condition until that time. We are taught in the Temple as well as in the scriptures that man was the last creation placed upon the earth, before death was introduced. Adam was the first to partake of the change and to become subject to the flesh. This is the view expressed by President Joseph F. Smith and President Anthon H. Lund. ...
This entire chapter deals with the question of 'pre-Adamites. 'This doctrine is not taught by the Church; it is not sustained in the scriptures. It can only be treated as an hypothesis, and the result will be uncertain, confusing, for after all is said it is speculation leading to endless controversy. We are aware that one of the brethren ...
[Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Letter to the First Presidency, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
140 years ago today - May 15, 1880
These additional powers [second anointing] include all the keys that belong to the holy priesthood on the earth, or were ever revealed to man in any dispensation, and which admit men and women within the veil. They enable them to pass by the angels and the gods, until they get into the presence of the Father and the Son. They make of them kings and priests, queens and priestesses to God, to rule and reign as such over their posterity and those who may be given to them by adoption, in the great jubilee of rest which is near at hand. It gives them the right to the tree of life, and the "seal of the living God in their foreheads," spoken of by John the revelator.
[Daniel Tyler, "Temples," Juvenile Instructor as quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
[Daniel Tyler, "Temples," Juvenile Instructor as quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
175 years ago today - Tuesday, May 15th, 1845
[John Taylor]
On the 15th of May, I with some others of my brethren had to secrete ourselves, to escape the hands of mobbers, who would have murdered us, if they had us in their power; they with the design of entrapping us, had made out writs against us to appear at this session of the Court to answer to charges preferred against us. We went to Brother Hunter's, and afterward to Bro. Pierce's to hide; and were employed in correcting and preparing Church history for the press.
['The John Taylor Nauvoo journal, January 1845-September 1845,' BYU Studies 23:3 (1983) edited by Dean C. Jessee]
On the 15th of May, I with some others of my brethren had to secrete ourselves, to escape the hands of mobbers, who would have murdered us, if they had us in their power; they with the design of entrapping us, had made out writs against us to appear at this session of the Court to answer to charges preferred against us. We went to Brother Hunter's, and afterward to Bro. Pierce's to hide; and were employed in correcting and preparing Church history for the press.
['The John Taylor Nauvoo journal, January 1845-September 1845,' BYU Studies 23:3 (1983) edited by Dean C. Jessee]
185 years ago today - mid May 1835
At about this time, Solomon W. Denton [a boarder at the Smith home] borrowed two pistols from his boss in the Church printing office, Oliver Cowdery. With these guns Denton reportedly accompanied M. C. Davis to make a murder attempt upon Grandison Newell. The attempt was unsucccessful; exact date unknown.
[Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]
[Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]
190 years ago today - May 15, 1830
[Rochester Gem]
Some months ago a noise was made among the credulous of the earth, respecting a wonderful production [about the coming forth of the Book of Mormon].... The author, who has the "copy-right secured according to law," says, `that he was commanded of the Lord in a dream,' to go and find, and that he went and found. At one time it was said that he was commanded of the Lord not to show the plates, on pain of instant death--but it seems he has shown them to the said witnesses, and yet is alive! At another time it is said that none could see them but he who was commanded;--that though they should lie in the middle of the street beneath the broad glare of a meridian sun, in the presence of hundreds, yet no eye but his could see them! ...
This story brings to our mind one of similar nature ... it was in the year 1815, that a family of Smiths moved into these parts ... They had a wonderful son, of about 18 years of age, who, on a certain day, as they said, while in the road, discovered a round stone of the size of a man's fist, the which when he first saw it, presented to him on the one side, all the dazzling splendor of the sun in full blaze--and on the other, the clearness of the moon. He fell down insensible at the sight, and while in the trance produced by the sudden and awful discovery, it was communicated to him that he was to become an oracle--and the keys of mystery were put into his hands, and he saw the unsealing of the book of fate. He told his tale for money. Numbers flocked to him to test his skill, and the first question among a certain class was, if there was any of [Captain Robert] Kidd's money hid in these parts in the earth. The oracle, after adjusting the stone in his hat, and looking in upon it sometime, pronounced that there was. The question of where, being decided upon, there forthwith emerged a set, armed with "pick-axe, hoe and spade," out into the mountains, to dislodge the treasure. ... [They] sallied out upon the hills east of the river, and commenced digging--the night was chosen for operation--already had two nights been spent in digging, and the third commenced upon, when Northrop with his pick-axe struck the chest! The effect was powerful, and contrary to an explicit rule laid down by himself he exclaimed, "d--n me, I've found it!"
The charm was broken!--the scream of demons,--the chattering of spirits--and hissing of serpents rent the air, and the treasure moved! The oracle was again consulted, who said that it had removed to the Deep Hollow. There, a similar accident happened--and again it was removed to a hill near the village of Penfield, where, it was pretended the undertakers obtained the treasure.
... He predicted that the enemy [War of 1812] would make an attack; and that blood must flow.--The story flew, and seemed to carry with it a desolating influence--some moved away into other parts, and others were trembling under a full belief of the prediction. At this time a justice of the peace of the place visited the oracle, and warned him to leave the country. He gravely told the magistrate that any one who opposed him would receive judgements upon his head, and that he who should take away the inspired stone from him, would suffer immediate death!...
["Imposition and Blasphemy!!--Money Diggers, &c.," Rochester (NY) Gem 2 (15 May 1830): 15., as cited in Dan Vogel, Early Mormon Documents: Rochester (Ny) Gem]
Some months ago a noise was made among the credulous of the earth, respecting a wonderful production [about the coming forth of the Book of Mormon].... The author, who has the "copy-right secured according to law," says, `that he was commanded of the Lord in a dream,' to go and find, and that he went and found. At one time it was said that he was commanded of the Lord not to show the plates, on pain of instant death--but it seems he has shown them to the said witnesses, and yet is alive! At another time it is said that none could see them but he who was commanded;--that though they should lie in the middle of the street beneath the broad glare of a meridian sun, in the presence of hundreds, yet no eye but his could see them! ...
This story brings to our mind one of similar nature ... it was in the year 1815, that a family of Smiths moved into these parts ... They had a wonderful son, of about 18 years of age, who, on a certain day, as they said, while in the road, discovered a round stone of the size of a man's fist, the which when he first saw it, presented to him on the one side, all the dazzling splendor of the sun in full blaze--and on the other, the clearness of the moon. He fell down insensible at the sight, and while in the trance produced by the sudden and awful discovery, it was communicated to him that he was to become an oracle--and the keys of mystery were put into his hands, and he saw the unsealing of the book of fate. He told his tale for money. Numbers flocked to him to test his skill, and the first question among a certain class was, if there was any of [Captain Robert] Kidd's money hid in these parts in the earth. The oracle, after adjusting the stone in his hat, and looking in upon it sometime, pronounced that there was. The question of where, being decided upon, there forthwith emerged a set, armed with "pick-axe, hoe and spade," out into the mountains, to dislodge the treasure. ... [They] sallied out upon the hills east of the river, and commenced digging--the night was chosen for operation--already had two nights been spent in digging, and the third commenced upon, when Northrop with his pick-axe struck the chest! The effect was powerful, and contrary to an explicit rule laid down by himself he exclaimed, "d--n me, I've found it!"
The charm was broken!--the scream of demons,--the chattering of spirits--and hissing of serpents rent the air, and the treasure moved! The oracle was again consulted, who said that it had removed to the Deep Hollow. There, a similar accident happened--and again it was removed to a hill near the village of Penfield, where, it was pretended the undertakers obtained the treasure.
... He predicted that the enemy [War of 1812] would make an attack; and that blood must flow.--The story flew, and seemed to carry with it a desolating influence--some moved away into other parts, and others were trembling under a full belief of the prediction. At this time a justice of the peace of the place visited the oracle, and warned him to leave the country. He gravely told the magistrate that any one who opposed him would receive judgements upon his head, and that he who should take away the inspired stone from him, would suffer immediate death!...
["Imposition and Blasphemy!!--Money Diggers, &c.," Rochester (NY) Gem 2 (15 May 1830): 15., as cited in Dan Vogel, Early Mormon Documents: Rochester (Ny) Gem]
35 years ago today - May 14, 1985
John C Bennett: Baptized by proxy into LDS church 23 Apr. 1985, and his priesthood was restored before proxy endowment 14 May 1985.
[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 - May 14, 1965
Upon request of the First Presidency Elder [Delbert L.] Stapley called and presented samples of the new ceremonial garment which is to take the place of the string garment now being used in the Temples. This new garment will have buttons instead of strings, and [a] closed crotch. It will also have a collar on it. Elder Stapley showed samples of the new ceremonial garments for men and women, and they were approved by me. Letters will be sent to the Presidents of Temples notifying them of this change. This new garment pattern had been presented to the Brethren in the meeting of the council of the First Presidency and the Twelve on January 21, 1965, at which time it was unanimously approved by the Council.
[David O. McKay diary, May 14, 1965, quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
[David O. McKay diary, May 14, 1965, quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
75 years ago today - May 14, 1945
The death of Heber J. Grant, who is also the last surviving member of the theocratic Council of Fifty. As his funeral procession passes the Roman Catholic Cathedral of the Madeleine, its bells toll and assembled priests bow in respect.
[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 )]]
125 years ago today - May 14, 1895
[Heber J. Grant]
This evening Gusta and I attended the meeting held in the interests of the Woman's suffrage cause in the Assembly Hall. Susan B. Anthony. Rev. Anna Shaw and others addressed the meeting. I was pleased with all that was said, but was amused beyond expression by Miss Shaw's address. It was brim full and running over with good things and delivered with force and ability She has a very amusing way of telling things and I do not think that I ever laughed so much in a half hour before in my life as I did when she was showing up some of the absurdities of those apposed to woman's suffrage.
[Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
This evening Gusta and I attended the meeting held in the interests of the Woman's suffrage cause in the Assembly Hall. Susan B. Anthony. Rev. Anna Shaw and others addressed the meeting. I was pleased with all that was said, but was amused beyond expression by Miss Shaw's address. It was brim full and running over with good things and delivered with force and ability She has a very amusing way of telling things and I do not think that I ever laughed so much in a half hour before in my life as I did when she was showing up some of the absurdities of those apposed to woman's suffrage.
[Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
135 years ago today - May 14, 1885
Apostles Brigham Young Jr. and Moses Thatcher meet with Don Carlos Pacheco of the Porfirio Diaz cabinet to obtain permission for polygamous Mormons to settle just across the border from the United States. Although polygamy is illegal under Mexican law, Pacheco says that Mexican authorities will not bother a polygamist unless his wife files a complaint. Mormon colonies center in Colonia Juarez (named after Mexico's national hero) and include colonies named after President Diaz and cabinet member Pacheco.
[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 )]]
145 years ago today - May 14, 1875
"after urging," Elizabeth Ann Whitney spoke in tongues with fluid ease for some five minutes. Eliza R. Snow affirmed that it was the "pure tongue of Adam."
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
150 years ago today - May 14th 1870
[Paris Idaho School of the Prophets]
... Elder Wixom asked a question with regard to the word of wisdom its observance and obligations. ...
Prest. Rich said none of us fully kept the word of wisdom. He did not feel over strenuous in the matter every man ought to know before the Lord what he should do in these things. If he did not who should. Although in some very rare instances it might be wise to use a little of the articles mentioned in the word of wisdom still this should not be taken as a pretext for indiscriminate use. ...
[Paris ward - Bear Lake Stake - School of the Prophets minutes 1869-72, typescript by Michael Nielsen]
... Elder Wixom asked a question with regard to the word of wisdom its observance and obligations. ...
Prest. Rich said none of us fully kept the word of wisdom. He did not feel over strenuous in the matter every man ought to know before the Lord what he should do in these things. If he did not who should. Although in some very rare instances it might be wise to use a little of the articles mentioned in the word of wisdom still this should not be taken as a pretext for indiscriminate use. ...
[Paris ward - Bear Lake Stake - School of the Prophets minutes 1869-72, typescript by Michael Nielsen]
155 years ago today - May 14, 1865
... She wished us to pray that she might spedily die as she Could not live. Presidet Young dedicated her to God for her death & burial. In about 12 hours she died.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[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 - May 14, 1860 (Morning)
A. Carrington read'-an extract relating to Joseph Smith, son of the Prophet being accepted as President of the '"True Church of Latter Day Saints'" a new organization [RLDS / Community of Christ]. The President [Brigham Young] observed it will do good, it will attract the Spirit of the nation to observe its doings, and thus be the means of diverting the attention of the Nation instead of watching us; he further remarked it would have been well if the Apostates that had left us had known of the existence of this new organization, they might have liked to have joined.
[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]
160 years ago today - May 14, 1860 (Evening)
The President remarked one race of men have oppressed another, but finally the best blood will rule.
[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]
175 years ago today - May 14, 1845
The capstone was placed on the Nauvoo Temple
[Homer, Michael W., Joseph’s Temples: The Dynamic Relationship between Freemasonry and Mormonism, Chronology]
[Homer, Michael W., Joseph’s Temples: The Dynamic Relationship between Freemasonry and Mormonism, Chronology]
175 years ago today - May 14, 1845
[Nauvoo Neighbor]
- Announcement: "Fasting and Prayer" ...
- Story: Nauvoo Vigilance Committee -- Editorial -- Describes and encourages actions by vigilant citizens of Nauvoo.
... - Story: "Spiritual Wife System in the Right Quarter" - Millerism -- Editorial -- Describes several published allegations about the kissing practices of Millerism.
- Letter: William Smith's Letter to the Nauvoo Church" -- William Smith -- Denies the "Spiritual Wife System," and seeks to find favor with the Nauvoo Saints.
...
[http://boap.org/LDS/Nauvoo-Neighbor]
- Announcement: "Fasting and Prayer" ...
- Story: Nauvoo Vigilance Committee -- Editorial -- Describes and encourages actions by vigilant citizens of Nauvoo.
... - Story: "Spiritual Wife System in the Right Quarter" - Millerism -- Editorial -- Describes several published allegations about the kissing practices of Millerism.
- Letter: William Smith's Letter to the Nauvoo Church" -- William Smith -- Denies the "Spiritual Wife System," and seeks to find favor with the Nauvoo Saints.
...
[http://boap.org/LDS/Nauvoo-Neighbor]
175 years ago today - May 14, 1845
The Twelve appoint the next Thursday (third week of the month) "as a day of public FASTING AND PRAYER to Almighty God." In Aug, it was the second Thursday, and Thursday remained fast-day for Utah Mormons until the 1890's.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
180 years ago today - May 14, 1840
[Wilford Woodruff]
... preached but amid much disturdance & as the meeting was about breaking up the congregation was besmeared with rotten eggs.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
... preached but amid much disturdance & as the meeting was about breaking up the congregation was besmeared with rotten eggs.
[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 - 1830 May 14
Wayne Sentinel: -The Book of Mormon- on sale now!
[https://docs.google.com/document/d/10ttN3vOzf2UcVhruCrvDf9pF27T0o0PP0Xj1X98tKBc/edit?fbclid=IwAR3HXLgL-X-M_c5LT2W-_F7AYqsqqaQ0yIhfNuyeFsX85irSPuEO6_Q993A]
[https://docs.google.com/document/d/10ttN3vOzf2UcVhruCrvDf9pF27T0o0PP0Xj1X98tKBc/edit?fbclid=IwAR3HXLgL-X-M_c5LT2W-_F7AYqsqqaQ0yIhfNuyeFsX85irSPuEO6_Q993A]
25 years ago today - May 13, 1995
Gordon B. Hinckley presides at "ground-breaking" ceremony for temple to be constructed by remodeling nearly ninety-year-old Uintah Stake Tabernacle in Vernal, Utah. This is first time new temple is to be created from pre-existing building which had other uses.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
55 years ago today - May 13, 1965
First Presidency approves the posthumous rebaptism and restoration of blessings for former apostle John W. Taylor who was excommunicated in 1911. His son Samuel Taylor had requested this two days previously.
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
120 years ago today - Sunday, May 13, 1900
R[eed]. S[moot]. Expressed a desire to magnify the office of an apostle. The great evil existing in the world and to some extent among our people of restricting and limiting by unlawful means the number of children in our families; warned the saints against the practice.
R. S[moot]. Related a vision he had while on a mission to England, which was fulfilled and which he related to a railroad conductor to prove the existence of a God. ...
[Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson]
R. S[moot]. Related a vision he had while on a mission to England, which was fulfilled and which he related to a railroad conductor to prove the existence of a God. ...
[Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson]
125 years ago today - May 13, 1895 (Monday)
The Intermountain Woman Suffrage convention convened in Salt Lake City; Susan B. Anthony presided.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
135 years ago today - May 13, 1885
A delegation, appointed by a mass meeting held in the Tabernacle in Salt Lake City on May 2, met with U.S. President Grover Cleveland in the White House in Washington, D.C. They presented to the president a "Statement of Grievances and Protest" concerning injustices brought about because of the Edmunds law.
[Church News: Historical Chronology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, http://www.ldschurchnewsarchive.com/articles/58765/Historical-chronology-of-The-Church-of-Jesus-Christ-of-Latter-day-Saints.html]
[Church News: Historical Chronology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, http://www.ldschurchnewsarchive.com/articles/58765/Historical-chronology-of-The-Church-of-Jesus-Christ-of-Latter-day-Saints.html]
175 years ago today - May 13, 1845
[Patriarchal Blessing of Truman O. Angell]
... Thou shalt live to see the winding up scene of this generation according to the desire of thy heart; and all things accomplished which the Prophets hath spoken concerning the latter day Glory; and the Temple built which is to be done before all this generation pass away. Thou shalt be one of the laborers in that Temple to accomplish the curious workmanship for the woodwork of the same ...
[Patriarchal Blessings]
... Thou shalt live to see the winding up scene of this generation according to the desire of thy heart; and all things accomplished which the Prophets hath spoken concerning the latter day Glory; and the Temple built which is to be done before all this generation pass away. Thou shalt be one of the laborers in that Temple to accomplish the curious workmanship for the woodwork of the same ...
[Patriarchal Blessings]
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