President George W. Bush visited the First Presidency [presided over by President Hinckley]
[LDS Newsroom, Time line of Significant Events as President, http://newsroom.lds.org/ldsnewsroom/eng/news-releases-stories/time-line-of-significant-events-as-president]
55 years ago today - Aug 31, 1966
[David O. McKay]
President [N. Eldon] Tanner referred to a question that had arisen as to the possibility of children who have themselves been sealed to their parents or who were born in the covenant attending a sealing where other children are being sealed to their parents. As an illustration he mentioned cases where parents who have children born in the covenant go to the Temple to have sealed to them children whom they have adopted. Under these conditions the parents would like to take their family with them to witness the sealing of other children. He stated that in two or three cases we have authorized this procedure, but that the Temple rule is that children under 21 years of age and only those over 21 who have had their endowments should be permitted to witness these sealings. President Tanner said that he and President [Hugh B.] Brown had discussed this with Elder Howard W. Hunter and it was their feeling that it should be a general rule that children under 21 may, where they desire to do so, and obtain the necessary recommends, attend and witness the sealing [of] adopted brothers and sisters.
[David O. McKay diary, Aug. 31, 1966, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
President [N. Eldon] Tanner referred to a question that had arisen as to the possibility of children who have themselves been sealed to their parents or who were born in the covenant attending a sealing where other children are being sealed to their parents. As an illustration he mentioned cases where parents who have children born in the covenant go to the Temple to have sealed to them children whom they have adopted. Under these conditions the parents would like to take their family with them to witness the sealing of other children. He stated that in two or three cases we have authorized this procedure, but that the Temple rule is that children under 21 years of age and only those over 21 who have had their endowments should be permitted to witness these sealings. President Tanner said that he and President [Hugh B.] Brown had discussed this with Elder Howard W. Hunter and it was their feeling that it should be a general rule that children under 21 may, where they desire to do so, and obtain the necessary recommends, attend and witness the sealing [of] adopted brothers and sisters.
[David O. McKay diary, Aug. 31, 1966, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
135 years ago today - Aug 31, 1886
U.S. officials at Staten Island, New York, send immigrants back to England because they are Mormons. They board the next ship, conceal their religion and destination, pass through American customs, and arrive in Salt Lake City on 27 Oct. For the next several years, European immigrants conceal their LDS religion and Utah destination.
[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)]]
165 years ago today - Aug 31, 1856
President Young Preached in the morning & prophesied concerning the oposition of the gentiles to us. <Said they could not drive us from this valley.> He was still govornor & should be untill the Lord saw fit to remove him. He spoke by the spirit & power of God
[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]
165 years ago today - Aug 31, 1856
[Brigham Young]
[1882 second coming prediction] "Mormons, can write it down if you please, but write it as I speak it. …after twenty-six years [1830] of faithful operation and exertion by our enemies, including the times when Joseph had scarcely a man to stand by him… In the days of Joseph it was considered a great privilege to be permitted to speak to a member of Congress, but twenty-six years [1882] will not pass away before the Elders of this Church will be as much thought of as the kings on their thrones. …Jesus Christ will be the President, and we are his officers, and they will have to leave the ground: for they will find that Jesus has the right of soil. This they are afraid of, do you blame them? No, I do not, and you should not: let them feel bad and worry. [26+1856=1882]
[President Brigham Young, Salt Lake City, August 31, 1856 Journal of Discourses, vol.4, p.4, as quoted in The Last Days and December 1890 2nd Coming of Jesus Christ, y George D. Speer Sr., privately circulated]
[1882 second coming prediction] "Mormons, can write it down if you please, but write it as I speak it. …after twenty-six years [1830] of faithful operation and exertion by our enemies, including the times when Joseph had scarcely a man to stand by him… In the days of Joseph it was considered a great privilege to be permitted to speak to a member of Congress, but twenty-six years [1882] will not pass away before the Elders of this Church will be as much thought of as the kings on their thrones. …Jesus Christ will be the President, and we are his officers, and they will have to leave the ground: for they will find that Jesus has the right of soil. This they are afraid of, do you blame them? No, I do not, and you should not: let them feel bad and worry. [26+1856=1882]
[President Brigham Young, Salt Lake City, August 31, 1856 Journal of Discourses, vol.4, p.4, as quoted in The Last Days and December 1890 2nd Coming of Jesus Christ, y George D. Speer Sr., privately circulated]
165 years ago today - Aug 31, 1856
[Brigham Young]
... we are now raised to a position where we can converse with kings and emperors. In the days of Joseph it was considered a great privilege to be permitted to speak to a member of Congress, but twenty-six years will not pass away before the Elders of this Church will be as much thought of as the kings on their thrones. ...
When '"Mormonism'" finds favor with the wicked in this land, it will have gone into the shade; but until the power of the Priesthood is gone, '"Mormonism'" will never become popular with the wicked. ...
I have traveled and preached, and at the same time sustained my family by my labor and economy. If I borrowed one hundred dollars, or fifty, or if I had five dollars, it almost universally went into the hands of brother Joseph, to pay lawyers' fees and to liberate him from the power of his enemies, so far as it would go. Hundreds and hundreds of dollars that I have managed to get, to borrow and trade for, I have handed over to Joseph when I came home. That is the way I got help, and it was good for me; it learned me a great deal, though I had learned, before I heard of '"Mormonism,'" to take care of number one.
[Journal of Discourses, vol. 4, p. 40, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
... we are now raised to a position where we can converse with kings and emperors. In the days of Joseph it was considered a great privilege to be permitted to speak to a member of Congress, but twenty-six years will not pass away before the Elders of this Church will be as much thought of as the kings on their thrones. ...
When '"Mormonism'" finds favor with the wicked in this land, it will have gone into the shade; but until the power of the Priesthood is gone, '"Mormonism'" will never become popular with the wicked. ...
I have traveled and preached, and at the same time sustained my family by my labor and economy. If I borrowed one hundred dollars, or fifty, or if I had five dollars, it almost universally went into the hands of brother Joseph, to pay lawyers' fees and to liberate him from the power of his enemies, so far as it would go. Hundreds and hundreds of dollars that I have managed to get, to borrow and trade for, I have handed over to Joseph when I came home. That is the way I got help, and it was good for me; it learned me a great deal, though I had learned, before I heard of '"Mormonism,'" to take care of number one.
[Journal of Discourses, vol. 4, p. 40, 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 - Aug 31, 1846
Young warns non-Mormon Thomas L. Kane (whom Young had just met) "that we had more influence with the indians than all other nations on the earth, & if we were compelled we would use it."
[Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 7: Selected Chronology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]
[Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 7: Selected Chronology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]
180 years ago today - Aug 31, 1841
[Minutes of the Apostles]
Resolved unanimously, that we deeply feel for our beloved President Joseph Smith & his fathers family on account of the great losses they have sustained in their properties on account of /by/ the unparalleled persecutions in Missouri, as well as the other many persecutions they have sustained since the Rise of the church, which has brought them to their present destitute situation; 'Therefore, Voted unanimously, /for ourselves & the church we represent/ that we approve of whel of the proceedings of president Smith so far as he has gone, in making over certain properties to his wife & children /& friends/ for their Support. & that He continue to deed & make over certain portions of church property /which now exist, or which may be obtained by exchange/ as in his wisdom he shall judge expedient, till his own & his fathers household shall have an inheritance secured to them ...
Resolved, that on account of the peculiar situation of the Church hitherto, it has been expedient & necessary that that the deeds. Bonds. & properties of the Church should be & have been taken & holden by committees of the church'& private individuals.'but that we now have a Trustte in Trust.' viz. President Joseph Smith appointed according to the laws of the Land....
... it was, voted unanimously that President Smith., as Trustee in Trust, be requested, & instructed /by the Conference on behalf of the Church/ to extend relief to such indigent suffering brethren., either by land or goods, as the properties of the Church would admit.
[Minutes, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
Resolved unanimously, that we deeply feel for our beloved President Joseph Smith & his fathers family on account of the great losses they have sustained in their properties on account of /by/ the unparalleled persecutions in Missouri, as well as the other many persecutions they have sustained since the Rise of the church, which has brought them to their present destitute situation; 'Therefore, Voted unanimously, /for ourselves & the church we represent/ that we approve of whel of the proceedings of president Smith so far as he has gone, in making over certain properties to his wife & children /& friends/ for their Support. & that He continue to deed & make over certain portions of church property /which now exist, or which may be obtained by exchange/ as in his wisdom he shall judge expedient, till his own & his fathers household shall have an inheritance secured to them ...
Resolved, that on account of the peculiar situation of the Church hitherto, it has been expedient & necessary that that the deeds. Bonds. & properties of the Church should be & have been taken & holden by committees of the church'& private individuals.'but that we now have a Trustte in Trust.' viz. President Joseph Smith appointed according to the laws of the Land....
... it was, voted unanimously that President Smith., as Trustee in Trust, be requested, & instructed /by the Conference on behalf of the Church/ to extend relief to such indigent suffering brethren., either by land or goods, as the properties of the Church would admit.
[Minutes, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
190 years ago today - Aug 31, 1831
Joseph Smith receives a revelation (unpublished) directing that Kirtland's sawmill operator, John Burk, and others immigrate to Missouri. The family of later sawmill owners Azariah Lyman and Austin Loud believe that this act disrupts Kirtland's sawmill operation.
[Mark Lyman Staker, Hearken, O Ye People: The Historical Setting of Joseph Smith's Ohio Revelations: A Selective Chronology of Significant Events in Ohio's LDS History]
[Mark Lyman Staker, Hearken, O Ye People: The Historical Setting of Joseph Smith's Ohio Revelations: A Selective Chronology of Significant Events in Ohio's LDS History]
55 years ago today - Aug 30, 1966
... Where persons who are involved in pending divorce or annulment proceedings make application for permission to go to the temple, brethren authorized to issue temple recommends should carefully and search ingly interview the applicant, and if it is found that he or she is in no cent of any serious wrongdoing in connection with the divorce or annulment and is otherwise worthy, a temple recommend may be issued. When the final decree of divorce or annulment has been entered, a divorce clearance must be obtained from the First Presidency by the parties involved, if they were previously sealed to each other in the temple, before they may be permitted to continue temple attendance or receive a temple recommend.... Divorces or annulments of marriage need not be cleared by the First Presidency for persons who were not sealed to each other in the temple....
[David O. McKay, Hugh B. Brown, N. Eldon Tanner, and Joseph Fielding Smith, circular letter, Aug. 30, 1966, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
[David O. McKay, Hugh B. Brown, N. Eldon Tanner, and Joseph Fielding Smith, circular letter, Aug. 30, 1966, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
115 years ago today - Aug 30, 1906
At a testimony meeting of the general board of the Young Ladies Mutual Improvement Association invited guests Lillie T. Freeze and Maria Young Dougall speak in tongues and interpret. Sisters Freeze and Dougall are general board members in other auxiliaries and speak in tongues and interpret at such meetings until they die in 1937. By then glossolalia no longer occurs in LDS meetings, since all Mormons with this gift have died without successors. After 1930s LDS leaders redefine the "gift of tongues" to be xenoglossia, the ability to learn unfamiliar language (such as Japanese), rather than spontaneous speaking of "unknown tongues" which correspond to no recognized language.
[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)]]
115 years ago today - Thursday, Aug 30, 1906
Bro. Reed Smoot was all broken up over some of Bro. Roberts talk on Polatics.
[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]
[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]
175 years ago today - Aug 30, 1846
Elder [Brigham] Young followed & gave many principles of interest. Said we must have experience. If we had done right & known how to have Magnifyed the Priesthood we should not have been driven from Jackson County. But must have experience in order to be prepared to govern the kingdom of God.
We met in council at 5 oclok at Br Kimbals tent. President Young there addressed the meeting And Said that it was an Eternal Principle that before God would Chose A man to rule any part of his kingdom He must first learn to be ruled And that the Lord was preparing A people for that purpose & fifty years would not pass away before many who are now present will each rule over many more than what I do this day.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
We met in council at 5 oclok at Br Kimbals tent. President Young there addressed the meeting And Said that it was an Eternal Principle that before God would Chose A man to rule any part of his kingdom He must first learn to be ruled And that the Lord was preparing A people for that purpose & fifty years would not pass away before many who are now present will each rule over many more than what I do this day.
[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 - Aug 30, 1831-31
D&C 63 (Kirtland): Sign-seekers condemned; adulterers and those who deny the faith not in first resurrection; purchase land, do not shed blood; wicked destroyed by fire; Joseph decides who moves to Zion; Newel K. Whitney church agent; millennium: children will be resurrected and grow, elderly will be changed in twinkling of an eye; Sidney's writing unacceptable--repent and rewrite.
[Kenney, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://web.archive.org/web/20120805163534/saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml]
[Kenney, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://web.archive.org/web/20120805163534/saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml]
195 years ago today - Aug 30, 1826
The LYONS ADVERTISER, in Lyons N.Y., ten miles from Palmyra, prints: "All wonders heretofore said or sung, from the legends of the Arabian Nights, down to the marvels of Cotton Mather, are flat & tame in comparison with many of the tales in this AUTHENTIC account of the WONDERS OF NATURE AND PROVIDENCE It's fame has spread far and wide among us." ." Josiah Priest's book, "The Wonders of Nature and Providence," argues that the Indians are descended from Hebrews, contains a condensed version of Ethan Smith's "View of the Hebrews," and is one of the more widely circulated books of the Manchester rental library (just five miles from Joseph Smith's home) in 1827.
15 years ago today - Aug 29, 2006
Warren Steed Jeffs (50), a fugitive polygamist, was arrested in Nevada. He was on the FBIs 10 most-wanted list for sex crimes in Utah and Arizona. Jeffs ruled the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS) since his father died in 2002. The sect had broken from the Mormon Church over a century ago.
[Ratnikas, Algis, TimelinesDb, http://www.timelinesdb.com/listevents.php?subjid=201title=Utah]
[Ratnikas, Algis, TimelinesDb, http://www.timelinesdb.com/listevents.php?subjid=201title=Utah]
30 years ago today - Aug 29, 1991
Arthur K. Smith is the first non-LDS president of the University of Utah.
[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)]]
75 years ago today - Aug 29, 1946
I was instructed by the First Presidency to write to Pres[ident] Edward J. Wood for the Alberta Temple at Cardston, calling his attention to reported irregularities, and innovations, seances &c introduced into the temple and temple ordinances with a request that such deviations must stop.
[George F. Richards diary, Aug. 29, 1946, in Anderson, Devery, The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
[George F. Richards diary, Aug. 29, 1946, in Anderson, Devery, The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
120 years ago today - Aug 29, 1901
First Presidency statement against secret orders and organizations. This is official culmination of half-century of estrangement from church's involvement in Freemasonry, which Joseph Smith thought would help protect him and Mormons.
120 years ago today - Aug 29, 1901
Apostle John W. Taylor marries two half-sisters, Rhoda and Roxie Welling, both on the same day. This increases his number of wives to five. Apostle Matthias F. Cowley performs the weddings at the Taylor home in Farmington, Utah. Taylor's third wife, Janet Maria Woolley (whom Taylor married four days after Wilford Woodruff's manifesto was presented to the Church in general conference) says that Taylor was given permission to marry the Welling girls by Joseph F. Smith, a counselor in the First Presidency.
120 years ago today - Aug 29, 1901
President [Joseph F.] Smith said that if the seventies generally could be convinced that they were simply elders with a special calling as aids to the Apostles in preaching the Gospel in foreign lands, and their minds could be disabused of the idea placed thereby the teachings of the late Elder Joseph Young, President of the Council of Seventy, to the effect that the Seventies were Apostles, some of them would not perhaps feel as they do now. Brother Cowley related a conversation he once had with the late President John Taylor, to the effect that a man holding the office of an Elder has all the authority necessary to preach the Gospel, and believing this to be true, thought the Elders should not be ordained Seventies in a wholesale way as they were now being ordained, but that they should be chosen according to their fitness to become aids to the Apostles. President Snow remarked that when elders were ordained seventies no more Priesthood was conferred upon them, but that they were merely called to work in a special field.
[Journal History, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
[Journal History, 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 - Aug 29, 1891
[Abraham H. Cannon]
"There seems to be a regular mania to commit suicide sweeping over this city. Scarcely a day passes but what one or more cases occur."
[Abraham H. Cannon Journal Excerpts, http://www.amazon.com/Apostles-Record-Journals-Abraham-1889-1896/dp/B000MFD1K4]
"There seems to be a regular mania to commit suicide sweeping over this city. Scarcely a day passes but what one or more cases occur."
[Abraham H. Cannon Journal Excerpts, http://www.amazon.com/Apostles-Record-Journals-Abraham-1889-1896/dp/B000MFD1K4]
175 years ago today - Aug 29, 1846
[Wilford Woodruff]
"Presidents Young & Richards Met at my tent And I Called my family together & I lade before them the Conduct of Caroline Barton & Sarah Brown [teen age wives added to Woodruff's family on the 2nd] in there night Ramblings with unprincipled young men. Many things were said upon the subject. They manifested a disposition to live els whare and I wished them to do so if they would not conduct better. Elder Richards prophesyed to them in the name of the Lord that they would see the day that they would be willing to have there right arm severd from there body if that would restore them to the place & station they were now loosing. But in consequence of there bad conduct I sent Caroline to her Father & Mother & Sarah left my tent to seek some place to stay. She went to Br Bakers untill she could get one."
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
"Presidents Young & Richards Met at my tent And I Called my family together & I lade before them the Conduct of Caroline Barton & Sarah Brown [teen age wives added to Woodruff's family on the 2nd] in there night Ramblings with unprincipled young men. Many things were said upon the subject. They manifested a disposition to live els whare and I wished them to do so if they would not conduct better. Elder Richards prophesyed to them in the name of the Lord that they would see the day that they would be willing to have there right arm severd from there body if that would restore them to the place & station they were now loosing. But in consequence of there bad conduct I sent Caroline to her Father & Mother & Sarah left my tent to seek some place to stay. She went to Br Bakers untill she could get one."
[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 - Aug 29, 1831
Kirtland, Ohio. While traveling to Colesville, New York, from Harmony, Pennsylvania, Joseph Smith and his company were miraculously delivered from their enemies, who were blinded and unable to identify them.
[BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith, http://byustudies.byu.edu]
[BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith, http://byustudies.byu.edu]
120 years ago today - 1901. August 28
Zina D. H. Young: Died of old age—sexton's records list "senility"—at her home at 146 Fourth Street in Salt Lake City at the age of eighty. Buried in the Salt Lake City Cemetery family plot of her first husband, Henry B. Jacobs, who had died of Bright's disease in 1886. Her epitaph is the motto of the Relief Society: "Charity never faileth."
[Van Wagoner, Richard and Walker, Steven C., A Book of Mormons, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Van Wagoner, Richard and Walker, Steven C., A Book of Mormons, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
140 years ago today - Aug 28, 1881
President John Taylor preaches, "And after the flood we are told that the curse that had been pronounced upon Cain was continued through Ham's wife, as he had married a wife of that seed. And why did it pass through the flood? Because it was necessary that the devil should have a representation upon the earth as well as God"
175 years ago today - Aug 28, 1846
28th Met in Council this morning with the Omaho's Chiefs & braves. We smoked the pipe of peace And then President Young spoke to them through there interpeter whose name was [ ] Informing them It was our desire to winter here And if they wished we would do some work for them make them a field & fix there guns &c. And many things were said which I Cannot now name.
And the big Elk replyed My Son thou hast spoken well. I have all thou hast Said in my heart. I have much I want to say. We are poor. When we go to hunt game in one place we meet an enemy & so in another place. Our enemies kill us. We do not kill them. I hope we will be friends. You may stay on these lands two years or more. Our young men may watch your cattle. We would be glad to have you trade with us. We will warn you of danger from other Indians &c. Many other things were said. The Council closed. The Indians were fed & returned home.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
And the big Elk replyed My Son thou hast spoken well. I have all thou hast Said in my heart. I have much I want to say. We are poor. When we go to hunt game in one place we meet an enemy & so in another place. Our enemies kill us. We do not kill them. I hope we will be friends. You may stay on these lands two years or more. Our young men may watch your cattle. We would be glad to have you trade with us. We will warn you of danger from other Indians &c. Many other things were said. The Council closed. The Indians were fed & returned home.
[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 - late Aug 1836
In Joseph Smith's absence some members call for David Whitmer to assume leadership of the Church. A similar situation happened during Smith's trip to Canada in July of 1837. Accounts of these two events are difficult to sort one from another. The earlier attempt to unseat Smith may possibly have been related to his affair with Miss Fanny Alger.
[Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]
[Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]
135 years ago today - Friday, Aug 27, 1886
[John Henry Smith]
It was agreed that the bond of George Q. Cannon should be paid. The Beck and Bullion Mine business was taken up and after a free discussion of the matter the brethren consented for President Taylor to guarantee the parties to the tune of one hundred thousand dollars. Who should become bondsmen. All of the Brethren expressed themselves as opposed to mining but the President. I gave some little offense to my brethren by my to candid expression of my feelings about the bond business.
[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]
It was agreed that the bond of George Q. Cannon should be paid. The Beck and Bullion Mine business was taken up and after a free discussion of the matter the brethren consented for President Taylor to guarantee the parties to the tune of one hundred thousand dollars. Who should become bondsmen. All of the Brethren expressed themselves as opposed to mining but the President. I gave some little offense to my brethren by my to candid expression of my feelings about the bond business.
[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]
150 years ago today - Aug 27, 1871
[Brigham Young]
"Now, I wish to make this request: that the Elders who return from missions consider themselves just as much on a mission here as in England or in any other part of the world. There is no people need preaching to more than those who live in this Territory and in these mountains. The Latter-day Saints, or those who profess to be, need talking to just as much as a child who begins to prattle and run around the house. It gets into mischief continually and its mother has to keep talking to it to keep it from meddling with things that it should not. It does not know how to guide itself, and wants guiding and correcting all the time; but not more than the Latter-day Saints who gather together."
"Now, I wish to make this request: that the Elders who return from missions consider themselves just as much on a mission here as in England or in any other part of the world. There is no people need preaching to more than those who live in this Territory and in these mountains. The Latter-day Saints, or those who profess to be, need talking to just as much as a child who begins to prattle and run around the house. It gets into mischief continually and its mother has to keep talking to it to keep it from meddling with things that it should not. It does not know how to guide itself, and wants guiding and correcting all the time; but not more than the Latter-day Saints who gather together."
150 years ago today - Aug 27, 1871
"I will turn again to the Latter-day Saints and to the world, and will say I would to God that the Latter-day Saints would take the word of Brigham Young to be law! I will defy the inhabitants of the whole earth to tell one word that he ever counseled that was wrong; or to point out a path that he ever advised man or woman to walk in but would lead to light, life, glory, immortality, and to all that is good or desirable by the intelligence that dwells upon the earth. What do you say, is that boasting? If any person has a mind to call it boasting, do so."
150 years ago today - Aug 27, 1871
[Brigham Young]
"[T]ake the Bible just as it reads; and if it be translated incorrectly, and there is a scholar on the earth who professes to be a Christian, and he can translate it any better than King James's translators did it, he is under obligation to do so, or the curse is upon him. If I understood Greek and Hebrew as some may profess to do, and I knew the Bible was not correctly translated, I should feel myself bound by the law of justice to the inhabitants of the earth to translate that which is incorrect and give it just as it was spoken anciently. Is that proper? Yes, I would be under obligation to do it. But I think it is translated just as correctly as the scholars could get it, although it is not correct in a great many instances. But it is no matter about that. Read it and observe it and it will not hurt any person in the world. If we are not to believe the whole of the Bible, let the man, whoever he may be, among the professed Christians, who thinks he knows, draw the line"
[Journal of Discourses 14:226-227, in WikiQuotes: Brigham Young, http://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/Brigham_Young]
"[T]ake the Bible just as it reads; and if it be translated incorrectly, and there is a scholar on the earth who professes to be a Christian, and he can translate it any better than King James's translators did it, he is under obligation to do so, or the curse is upon him. If I understood Greek and Hebrew as some may profess to do, and I knew the Bible was not correctly translated, I should feel myself bound by the law of justice to the inhabitants of the earth to translate that which is incorrect and give it just as it was spoken anciently. Is that proper? Yes, I would be under obligation to do it. But I think it is translated just as correctly as the scholars could get it, although it is not correct in a great many instances. But it is no matter about that. Read it and observe it and it will not hurt any person in the world. If we are not to believe the whole of the Bible, let the man, whoever he may be, among the professed Christians, who thinks he knows, draw the line"
[Journal of Discourses 14:226-227, in WikiQuotes: Brigham Young, http://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/Brigham_Young]
160 years ago today - Aug 27, 1861
A meeting was Held at the Historians Office to select a Company to go to Uinta valley. ... Presidet Young said ... I want a settlement there [Uinta valley] and I wish to pick my Company. The Gentiles will take possession of that valley if we do not & I do not wish them to have it. Anterro the Cheil of the Pampa Utes wish me to make a settlement there.
And I want to say a word to you Brother Bradley. I do not wish to Excuse you. I want you to go so that you Can neither make whiskey or get it. For any man that makes whiskey or Beer is quilty of putting the Cup to his Neighbors Lips and any man that will make whiskey to Sell here would sell the kingdom of God for a pickeyune.
I have shown by my acts what I think of whiskey making. I have the best still in the Territory and as soon as the Gentiles brought whiskey to this Territory I laid up my Still & I have not used it and I wish that all the whiskey that the Gentiles brought had been so filled with poison as to have killed all who drank it.
I despise the whiskey maker more than I do the Thieves. I have no fellowship for Either. If I had the power I would blow out the Brains of Evry thief in the Territory.... I would not kill a man who would make & sell whiskey & destroy the souls of men for dimes for I would co[nsider?] myself disgraced for I would want to kill a more [descent?] man if I killed any body.... Cursed be the man that puteth the Cup to his Neighbors Lips.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
And I want to say a word to you Brother Bradley. I do not wish to Excuse you. I want you to go so that you Can neither make whiskey or get it. For any man that makes whiskey or Beer is quilty of putting the Cup to his Neighbors Lips and any man that will make whiskey to Sell here would sell the kingdom of God for a pickeyune.
I have shown by my acts what I think of whiskey making. I have the best still in the Territory and as soon as the Gentiles brought whiskey to this Territory I laid up my Still & I have not used it and I wish that all the whiskey that the Gentiles brought had been so filled with poison as to have killed all who drank it.
I despise the whiskey maker more than I do the Thieves. I have no fellowship for Either. If I had the power I would blow out the Brains of Evry thief in the Territory.... I would not kill a man who would make & sell whiskey & destroy the souls of men for dimes for I would co[nsider?] myself disgraced for I would want to kill a more [descent?] man if I killed any body.... Cursed be the man that puteth the Cup to his Neighbors Lips.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
180 years ago today - Aug 27, 1841
Robert Blashel Thompson (Joseph Smith's secretary), was an associate editor of the Times and Seasons in Nauvoo. From May to August 1841 he worked there with Don Carlos Smith. On 16 August 1841, at the age of 29, he was seized with the same disease that had stricken Don Carlos Smith, and died 9 days later. William Law later said he died under 'suspicious circumstances:' "I know that several men, six or seven, died under very suspicious circumstances. Among them were two secretaries of the prophet, Mulholland and Blaskel Thompson. I saw Mulholland die and the symptoms looked very suspicious to me. Dr. Foster, who was a very good physician, believed firmly that those six or seven men had been poisoned, and told me so repeatedly."
[Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]
[Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]
50 years ago today - Aug 26, 1971
During the church's first area conference in Manchester, England, there is a formal meeting of a joint council of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. This is the first such council meeting outside of the United States in Mormon history.
[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)]]
120 years ago today - Aug 26, 1901
[Lorenzo Snow and Joseph F. Smith to apostle John W. Young]
Your wife Christine wrote to us recently representing herself to be in needy circumstance, and asking us to use our good offices to induce you to help her children. We wrote her in answer to this that on a previous occasion (about two years ago) she wrote a similar letter, and that you were communicated with respecting it, and that you answered in effect that inasmuch as it was a domestic affair it appeared only right and proper that she should address you direct regarding it. In reply to this letter Sister Christine has written again, from which we are sorry to learn that she failed to be informed of the contents of your letter referred to; and from her last letter quote as follows:
' ... I had neither home nor means, no parents, no relatives who were in a position to help me, he knew fully that there was nothing to keep me and his two children from want all these twelve years except the effort of my hands, and that my health was such as to make that effort a severe trial he too was mad acquainted with through letters from the children. ... I feel strongly that no man with a vestige of chivalry in his soul would humiliate a woman so as to force her to ask a favor of him that what in all human justice she has a right to claim as her due'the least reparation man can make for a life's happiness destroyed. ... '
We sympathize with Sister Young in the embarrassing position in which she is placed, and agree with her that she should not be required to ask for the assistance you may be able to render and which you should render her; and we trust therefore you will see your way clear to aid her, and that you will have the disposition to help her without further importuning on her part. We appreciate the fact that this is a delicate subject, and that you may feel sensitive about it, but there appears at present to be no other recourse for Sister Christine, and this must be our apology for writing you regarding it.
[Lorenzo Snow and Joseph F. Smith, Letter to John W. Young, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
Your wife Christine wrote to us recently representing herself to be in needy circumstance, and asking us to use our good offices to induce you to help her children. We wrote her in answer to this that on a previous occasion (about two years ago) she wrote a similar letter, and that you were communicated with respecting it, and that you answered in effect that inasmuch as it was a domestic affair it appeared only right and proper that she should address you direct regarding it. In reply to this letter Sister Christine has written again, from which we are sorry to learn that she failed to be informed of the contents of your letter referred to; and from her last letter quote as follows:
' ... I had neither home nor means, no parents, no relatives who were in a position to help me, he knew fully that there was nothing to keep me and his two children from want all these twelve years except the effort of my hands, and that my health was such as to make that effort a severe trial he too was mad acquainted with through letters from the children. ... I feel strongly that no man with a vestige of chivalry in his soul would humiliate a woman so as to force her to ask a favor of him that what in all human justice she has a right to claim as her due'the least reparation man can make for a life's happiness destroyed. ... '
We sympathize with Sister Young in the embarrassing position in which she is placed, and agree with her that she should not be required to ask for the assistance you may be able to render and which you should render her; and we trust therefore you will see your way clear to aid her, and that you will have the disposition to help her without further importuning on her part. We appreciate the fact that this is a delicate subject, and that you may feel sensitive about it, but there appears at present to be no other recourse for Sister Christine, and this must be our apology for writing you regarding it.
[Lorenzo Snow and Joseph F. Smith, Letter to John W. Young, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
125 years ago today - Aug 26,1896
Apostle Moses Thatcher begins treatment with Keeley Institute for his addiction to opium and morphine. First Presidency and apostles tolerated Thatcher as a "morphine fiend" and "opium eater", but on 26 Jul his family and friends considered involuntary commitment to treatment. His is most prominent drug addict in Mormon history. Twelve drop Thatcher from quorum membership on 19 Nov because of four year conflict over his insubordination in political matters, but Thatcher's drug addiction aggravates that conflict.
[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]
125 years ago today - Aug 26, 1896
A Ward Conference was held at Sugar House [Salt Lake City] this evening at which the Forest Dale Ward was organized out of a portion of the Sugar House Ward. President Angus M. Cannon and Counselor Joseph E. Taylor and C[harles]. W. Penrose officiated. Some opposition was manifested by a few of the members present, through a misunderstanding on their part in reference to the alleged nonresidence of Bishop [Apollos G.] Driggs in the Sugar House Ward, after the Ward should be divided. Elder Daniel S. Harrington became so excited that President Cannon had to require him to take his seat, and the constable named Harris, who was present, walked to the stand and commanded the peace. The Declaration of Principles was read and explained by Brother Penrose, and was sustained with one dissentient vote. James J. Jenson was selected and sustained as Bishop of Forest Dale Ward, with Royal B. Young and James Hendry as his counselors. This left Bishop Apollos S. Driggs with but one counselor. Frank V. Taylor was made first counselor and M. M. Atwood second counselor. These were sustained by unanimous vote, with this exception, four hands were raised against Bishop Driggs by persons who considered he was not a resident of the ward. It was explained that this would form no valid objection and the meeting closed with general good feeling.
[Journal History, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
[Journal History, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
150 years ago today - Aug 26, 1871
[Wilford Woodruff]
26 I Attended the school of the prophets. Many subjets were brought up & speeches Made. Presidet Young presented the subject of Making our will. He recommended to divide our property into so many shares & then divide the shares to the wives & Children according to our mind & will.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
26 I Attended the school of the prophets. Many subjets were brought up & speeches Made. Presidet Young presented the subject of Making our will. He recommended to divide our property into so many shares & then divide the shares to the wives & Children according to our mind & will.
[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 - Aug 26, 1856
Brigham Young's office journal records: ". . . Bro[ther] Brown lately arrived from Kanesville left a Bottle of Wine of his own make made from the juice of the grape as a present for President Young . . ."
175 years ago today - Aug 26, 1846
[Wilford Woodruff]
I also found an evil in the camp. A man by the name of Daniel (or John) Barnum not A member of the Church but A wicked man had joined with other young men And was spending there time nights in fiddleing & dancing And afterwards leading away young women into folley evil & wickedness. And Among others I found that [Wilford's new teenaged wives] Caroline Barton & Sarah Brown had been lead away by him & been with them At late hours of the night. As they were members of my family I forbid there going out any more with them on penalty of leaving my house. But they still continued to go out.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
I also found an evil in the camp. A man by the name of Daniel (or John) Barnum not A member of the Church but A wicked man had joined with other young men And was spending there time nights in fiddleing & dancing And afterwards leading away young women into folley evil & wickedness. And Among others I found that [Wilford's new teenaged wives] Caroline Barton & Sarah Brown had been lead away by him & been with them At late hours of the night. As they were members of my family I forbid there going out any more with them on penalty of leaving my house. But they still continued to go out.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
85 years ago today - Aug 25, 1936
Twenty-year-old Fawn McKay, niece of David O. McKay, marries non-Mormon Bernard Brodie, a graduate student in international relations, at a Chicago LDS ward after a six-week "whirlwind" courtship. On the same day she receives an M.A. in English from the University of Chicago. She is later excommunicated for writing NO MAN KNOWS MY HISTORY.
165 years ago today - Aug 25, 1856
The Martin handcart company and the Hodgett wagon train leave Florence (Winter Quarters), Nebraska, for the Salt Lake Valley.
170 years ago today - Monday, Aug 25, 1851
H[eber] C. Kimball being requested by the Prest.[,] Brigham Young stated that the business this morning was to investigate the fire works of Judge [Uriah] Brown, whether we shall purchase it, or rejected [reject it]. ... O[rson] Hyde wished to know what the expenses of the fire works would be and what would be the benefit of it if we should buy it. P[hineas] Young. He states that he [Uriah Brown] has an invention of liquid fire to destroy an army & navy. Many evidences of the power of the invention can be adduced. ... If pipes were laid in the Kanyon he could destroy an army instantly without injuring the operator. If we ever settle on a sea port he could destroy any number of vessels, any navy in an instant. A[lmon] W. Babbit referred to the favorable reception the invention met with from Pres. Jos[ep]h Smith. The Russian Mission &c. and the favorable notice of the U.S. government in regard [to it]. He then referred to the report of the committee on the experiment, which he read. He is in favor of carrying out the views of Joseph Smith and thinks it a matter worthy of our notice. … ...
[Selected Minutes of the Council of Fifty, Quinn Papers, Beinecke Library, as quoted in Jedediah S. Rogers (editor), The Council of Fifty: A Documentary History, Signature Books (2014)]
[Selected Minutes of the Council of Fifty, Quinn Papers, Beinecke Library, as quoted in Jedediah S. Rogers (editor), The Council of Fifty: A Documentary History, Signature Books (2014)]
180 years ago today - Aug 25, 1841
Joseph exchanges letters with Horace R. Hotchkiss concerning tardy payments for the Nauvoo lands. Apparently both Joseph and Hotchkiss assume that the Saints might get some financial compensation for their losses in Missouri, with which they might pay for the Nauvoo lands. When this does not come about, Hotchkiss begins to get quite anxious about the payment due him for his land. Joseph, of course, has little or no money of his own with which to pay for the lands.
[Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
185 years ago today - Aug 25, 1836
the CINCINNATI JOURNAL AND WESTERN LUMINARY prints a letter from Truman Coe pastor of the Old South Church in Kirtland, Ohio: "Mormonism, it is well known, originated with Joseph Smith in the town of Manchester, adjoining Palmyra, in the state of New York. Smith had previously been noted among his acquaintances as a kind of Juggler, and had been employed in digging after money. He was believed by the ignorant to possess the power of second sight, by looking through a certain stone in his possession. He relates that when he was 17 years of age, while seeking after the Lord he had a nocturnal vision, and a wonderful display of celestial glory. An angel descended and warned him that God was about to make an astonishing revelation to the world, and then directed him to go to such a place, and after prying up a stone he should find a number of plates of the color of gold inscribed with hieroglyphics, and under them a breastplate, and under that a transparent stone or stones which was the Urim and Thummin mentioned by Moses."
20 years ago today - Aug 24, 2001
Tom Green, a Mormon fundamentalist with five wives and 30 children, was sentenced by a court in Provo, Utah, to five years in prison in the state's biggest polygamy case in nearly half a century.
[Ratnikas, Algis, TimelinesDb, http://www.timelinesdb.com/listevents.php?subjid=201title=Utah]
[Ratnikas, Algis, TimelinesDb, http://www.timelinesdb.com/listevents.php?subjid=201title=Utah]
30 years ago today - Aug 24, 1991
The Church News prints the official reassurance of Jack H. Goaslind Jr. (First Quorum of the Seventy member on the executive board of Boy Scouts of America) that the LDS church is still in BSA: "'Learning for Life' [program for self-identified homosexual scouts] does not affect the use of traditional Scouting as a tool to further the goals of the Aaronic Priesthood. As far as the Church is concerned, we are still totally supportive of the Boy Scouts of America program as we know it." This is in response to distressed inquiries from parents about Goaslind's previously published statement that the LDS church "would withdraw from the Boy Scouts of America" if it permitted membership by self-identified homosexual teenagers. This retration represents either a reversal of a First Presidency decision or a repudiation of Goaslind's speaking out of turn.
[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)]]
50 years ago today - Aug 24, 1971
[Harvey Fletcher]
"You know they're not always agreeing in the Twelve on some of these things, particularly when it deals with science. He (now referring to brother [John A.] Widtsoe) said brother Joseph Fielding Smith and brother [James E.] Talmage used to have it pretty hot sometimes, and he said that brother Talmage, see he talked about fossils and that was part of his subject as a geologist, went down to Adam-ondi-aman where the altar of Adam is supposed to be and he had a pick and picked around through it and finally found a fossil right in the cement of this altar. He found two or three of them and brought them up and put them in a bag and brought them home. He said he came back at one of the meetings of the Twelve, and he said, 'Now brother Joseph, I understand that you thoroughly believe and are very sure that the first man on earth was Adam, the first life was Adam.' He said, 'I certainly do believe that.' He said, 'Well, what about these?' then, he handed out the fossils, and said, 'I found those in the altar.'"
[Oral History of BYU, #17, Harvey Fletcher, p. 11, in reference to Correspondence from First Presidency, Letter to Eugene T. Thompson (http://zackc.files.wordpress.com/2011/06/correspondence-from-first-presidency-in-re-fletchers-reminiscences.pdf, referenced 10.20.2014)]
"You know they're not always agreeing in the Twelve on some of these things, particularly when it deals with science. He (now referring to brother [John A.] Widtsoe) said brother Joseph Fielding Smith and brother [James E.] Talmage used to have it pretty hot sometimes, and he said that brother Talmage, see he talked about fossils and that was part of his subject as a geologist, went down to Adam-ondi-aman where the altar of Adam is supposed to be and he had a pick and picked around through it and finally found a fossil right in the cement of this altar. He found two or three of them and brought them up and put them in a bag and brought them home. He said he came back at one of the meetings of the Twelve, and he said, 'Now brother Joseph, I understand that you thoroughly believe and are very sure that the first man on earth was Adam, the first life was Adam.' He said, 'I certainly do believe that.' He said, 'Well, what about these?' then, he handed out the fossils, and said, 'I found those in the altar.'"
[Oral History of BYU, #17, Harvey Fletcher, p. 11, in reference to Correspondence from First Presidency, Letter to Eugene T. Thompson (http://zackc.files.wordpress.com/2011/06/correspondence-from-first-presidency-in-re-fletchers-reminiscences.pdf, referenced 10.20.2014)]
75 years ago today - Before Aug 24, 1946
In Post WWII Hamburg, Elder Benson found 500 Saints assembled for meetings. Many "were thin, weak and hungry, their clothes threadbare and hanging loos[e]ly from their starved bodies." "How I wish I could have had baskets full of things—especially food—to give them," Benson wrote. "If I could have for each of these families the food wasted in the average American home, it would be much more than their total food supply at present."
[Gary James Bergera, "Ezra Taft Benson's 1946 Mission to Europe" Journal of Mormon History 34:2 (Spring 2008)]
[Gary James Bergera, "Ezra Taft Benson's 1946 Mission to Europe" Journal of Mormon History 34:2 (Spring 2008)]
100 years ago today - Aug 24, 1921
A letter is sent out expresseing the interest and concern of President Grant and the First Presidency regarding the nation-wide distribution and showing of a motion picture, "Riders of The Purple Sage," based on a novel by Zane Grey, which the Church considered to be "scandalous" so far as its portrayal of Mormon history was concerned
It is evident from the letter of September 14th that Senator Smoot's influence with William H. Hays of the National Board of Motion Picture Review was sufficient to cause the elimination of the picture "from the screen.
President Grant's notes: "Sometimes I think we are too passive and do not defend ourselves as we should against such onslaught".
[Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
It is evident from the letter of September 14th that Senator Smoot's influence with William H. Hays of the National Board of Motion Picture Review was sufficient to cause the elimination of the picture "from the screen.
President Grant's notes: "Sometimes I think we are too passive and do not defend ourselves as we should against such onslaught".
[Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
160 years ago today - Aug 24, 1861
[Brigham Young]
The feelings of the Brethren are gratified by hearing of the continued success which attends the Southern Confederacy [during the civil war]. -- Salt Lake City
[Brigham Young Office Journals, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
The feelings of the Brethren are gratified by hearing of the continued success which attends the Southern Confederacy [during the civil war]. -- Salt Lake City
[Brigham Young Office Journals, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
30 years ago today - Aug 23, 1991.
Two weeks after the Sunstone Symposium in Salt Lake City, "the Council of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles" issues a statement expressing concern about "recent symposia . . . that result in ridiculing sacred things or injuring The Church . . . detracting from its mission, or jeopardizing the well-being of its members." Lowell Bennion, a Sunstone participant, comments, "We are asked to love the Lord with all our hearts and minds. It is a poor religion that can't stand the test of thinking."
Salt Lake City resident Christian Fonnesbeck, who wrote a letter to the First Presidency saying he was "puzzled" by the statement, is called in by his bishop, acting on instructions of his stake president, Herbert Klopfer, and relieved of his church calling as a Blazer-B instructor. He is told the action is taken on instruction of "high church officials." (He has since been put in charge of scheduling the building.) Kim Clark writes a letter to the editor, published in the Salt Lake Tribune, commenting on the statement. His stake president calls him in and tells him that he is "undertaking an investigation that could result in disfellowshipment or excommunication."
At October general conference, Elder Boyd K. Packer refers explicitly to the joint statement and comments on "the dangers of participating in symposia which concentrate on doctrine and ordinances and measure them by the intellect alone. . . . There is safety in learning doctrines in gatherings which are sponsored by proper authority." Apostle Marvin J. Ashton says, "Some of us may be inclined to study the word with the idea in mind that we must add much where the Lord has said little! Those who would `add upon' could well be guided by the anchor question of, do my writings, comments, or observations build faith and strengthen testimonies?" Elder Charles Didier of the First Quorum of the Seventy instructs Saints to build testimony "by asking your Heavenly Father in the name of his Son Jesus Christ. Do not turn to public discussions and forums."
[Anderson, Lavina Fielding, "The LDS Intellectual Community and Church Leadership: A Contemporary Chronology," Dialogue, Vol.26, No.1]
Salt Lake City resident Christian Fonnesbeck, who wrote a letter to the First Presidency saying he was "puzzled" by the statement, is called in by his bishop, acting on instructions of his stake president, Herbert Klopfer, and relieved of his church calling as a Blazer-B instructor. He is told the action is taken on instruction of "high church officials." (He has since been put in charge of scheduling the building.) Kim Clark writes a letter to the editor, published in the Salt Lake Tribune, commenting on the statement. His stake president calls him in and tells him that he is "undertaking an investigation that could result in disfellowshipment or excommunication."
At October general conference, Elder Boyd K. Packer refers explicitly to the joint statement and comments on "the dangers of participating in symposia which concentrate on doctrine and ordinances and measure them by the intellect alone. . . . There is safety in learning doctrines in gatherings which are sponsored by proper authority." Apostle Marvin J. Ashton says, "Some of us may be inclined to study the word with the idea in mind that we must add much where the Lord has said little! Those who would `add upon' could well be guided by the anchor question of, do my writings, comments, or observations build faith and strengthen testimonies?" Elder Charles Didier of the First Quorum of the Seventy instructs Saints to build testimony "by asking your Heavenly Father in the name of his Son Jesus Christ. Do not turn to public discussions and forums."
[Anderson, Lavina Fielding, "The LDS Intellectual Community and Church Leadership: A Contemporary Chronology," Dialogue, Vol.26, No.1]
75 years ago today - Aug 23, 1946
[J. Reuben Clark]
Judge Rulon Clark with First Presidency Took up question of sending sub-normals to Am. Fork School'where they are sterilized. Question really turned on Church attitude towards sterilization I strongly urged caution, that we knew too little to make our determination certain. He turned over a list of those now in question,'some 36 names. We decided we would investigate the ward membership in the area from which they came'Redwood Ward. I called Pres Child and asked him to take charge of matter and have it done (this at F.P.'s request). He said he would and got in touch with present Stake Presidency.
[The Diaries of J. Reuben Clark, 1933-1961, Abridged, Digital Edition, Salt Lake City, Utah 2015]
Judge Rulon Clark with First Presidency Took up question of sending sub-normals to Am. Fork School'where they are sterilized. Question really turned on Church attitude towards sterilization I strongly urged caution, that we knew too little to make our determination certain. He turned over a list of those now in question,'some 36 names. We decided we would investigate the ward membership in the area from which they came'Redwood Ward. I called Pres Child and asked him to take charge of matter and have it done (this at F.P.'s request). He said he would and got in touch with present Stake Presidency.
[The Diaries of J. Reuben Clark, 1933-1961, Abridged, Digital Edition, Salt Lake City, Utah 2015]
125 years ago today - Aug 23,1896
Sugar House Ward congregation votes against man proposed as Bishop of new ward to divided from the old. Salt Lake stake president Angus M. Cannon furiously shouts, "Sit down! and shut your mouths, you have no right to speak!" When Cannon engages in shouting match with dissenting congregation, a ward member and policeman threaten to arrest stake president for disturbing the peace. Cannon more calmly repeats his attempt but is voted down "again several times." Secretary of the First Council in attendance writes: "I have been taught that the appointing power comes from the priesthood and the sustaining power from the people and that they have the right of sustaining or not sustaining appointees."
[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]
165 years ago today - Aug 23, 1856
President Young said while conversing upon Eternal improvement that He knew by revelation while in England that there would be an Eternal increase in knowledge & as we now are God once was & as he now is we shall be if we continue faithful. I told this to Br Lorenzo Snow. While Conversing with Brother Wilard Richards upon the things of God it came to me that the Priesthood is a perfect system of Government.
[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]
170 years ago today - Saturday, Aug 23, 1851
A[lexander] Badlam [speaking]... He [Orrin Porter Rockwell] was willing to die for brother [Orson] Hyde. It is right to obey the presiding authority. Bro. Rockwell was acting under the authority of the Prest. of this council. Is in favor of brother Rockwell being remunerated. … The brethren finally concluded to forgive each other and endeavor to bury the past. Porter [Rockwell] is not willing to shake hands with them because he does not love them as well as he used to but he will forgive them, and endeavor to do them good.
[Selected Minutes of the Council of Fifty, Quinn Papers, Beinecke Library, as quoted in Jedediah S. Rogers (editor), The Council of Fifty: A Documentary History, Signature Books (2014)]
[Selected Minutes of the Council of Fifty, Quinn Papers, Beinecke Library, as quoted in Jedediah S. Rogers (editor), The Council of Fifty: A Documentary History, Signature Books (2014)]
175 years ago today - Aug 23, 1846
[Mormon Battalion]
Capt. John Allen dies at Fort Leavenworth. Overriding Allen's prior agreement with Brigham Young that the battalion's own officers would assume command in the event of his death, the Army appoints Lt. A.J. Smith, not a Latter-day Saint and destined to become unpopular among the men of the battalion, to be the unit's acting commander.
[Mormon Battalion Timeline, Herald Extra, March 25, 2010]
Capt. John Allen dies at Fort Leavenworth. Overriding Allen's prior agreement with Brigham Young that the battalion's own officers would assume command in the event of his death, the Army appoints Lt. A.J. Smith, not a Latter-day Saint and destined to become unpopular among the men of the battalion, to be the unit's acting commander.
[Mormon Battalion Timeline, Herald Extra, March 25, 2010]
40 years ago today - Aug 22,1981
Apostle Boyd K. Packer instructs BYU religion faculty, all seminary and institute teachers, and administrators of Church Education System that Mormon history, "if not properly written or properly taught, may be a faith destroyer," and he affirms that Mormon historians are wrong in publicizing controversial elements of Mormon past. BYU Studies publishes this address in full. At request of students, BYU history professor gives his perspective on Elder Packer's talk and role of historical inquiry to meeting of BYU's history majors. Summarized within days by off-campus student newspaper Seventh East Press, this conflict between some apostles and some Mormon historians is subject of Feb 1982 Newsweek article which quotes BYU professor that "a history which makes LDS leaders flawless and benignly angelic would border on idolatry."
[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]
120 years ago today - Thursday, Aug 22, 1901
Pres. Snow made remarks and said in substance that he doubted whether we were justified in keeping the Twelve Apostles and Seven Presidents of Seventies at home as much as we do. Their special calling is to preach the gospel to the nations, and he felt that a great work must be accomplished in this regard before the coming of the Savior. The president of the Twelve should think about this matter, should pray about it, that his mind might be broadened to comprehend what is needed. It is a matter worthy of thought and consideration.
[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]
[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]
140 years ago today - Aug 22, 1881
[James E. Talmage]
The authorities have often spoken of my age and diligent labors in public and even President Woodruff was not an exception, but I see one thing, that this very circumstance imposes on me an onerous duty—to keep opinion of self down. [...] Some think me conceited, but I think they are those that know me but little. I am not so; indeed, I am impetuous, rushing, energetic, and these trains are often taken for self-conceit.
[The Journals of James E. Talmage—Excerpts, Compiled by J. Trevor Antley, https://docs.google.com/document/d/1dOE6pgN6OkBJIq-X73JGpCdt0p5b8_UdfTfLREz4uTg/]
The authorities have often spoken of my age and diligent labors in public and even President Woodruff was not an exception, but I see one thing, that this very circumstance imposes on me an onerous duty—to keep opinion of self down. [...] Some think me conceited, but I think they are those that know me but little. I am not so; indeed, I am impetuous, rushing, energetic, and these trains are often taken for self-conceit.
[The Journals of James E. Talmage—Excerpts, Compiled by J. Trevor Antley, https://docs.google.com/document/d/1dOE6pgN6OkBJIq-X73JGpCdt0p5b8_UdfTfLREz4uTg/]
170 years ago today - Aug 22, 1851
At Council of Fifty meeting Phineas H. Young admits plotting with Indians to kill Apostle Orson Hyde in Iowa, because Hyde ordered someone to kill Phineas. Hyde mentlons William A. Hickman but doesn't admit responslblllty for an attempt on Phineas' life. Brigham successfully reconciles these two members of the Fifty.
[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)]]
170 years ago today - Aug 22, 1851
... ["]H[yde] advised the people to beat the Indians out of [Pottawattomie] County. [I] saw two Indians whipped there unmercifully. I said this was a bad policy. Thought such a course would stir up the Indians to prevent emigration, and thought it was done to prevent emigration. When he came through he met with the Indians. [Logan] Fontainelle complained and he told [the Indians] to take Hyde's skelp [scalp] but let the people alone.["] O[rson] Hyde-Has never had any difficulty with brother P[hin ehas]. ["]The difficulty has been with him alone. I have said or done little.["] In regard to P[hinehas] going East. He [Hyde] wanted [Bill] Hickman to let him have a horse, and advised Hickman to steal another.
… [In the afternoon] H[eber] C. Kimball [said:]. ["]The difficulty between Joseph Young and Bro. Hyde seems to be settled. But the matter between Bro Hyde and Phineas Young does not appear to be settled. Bro. Phineas Young has laid plains [plans] with the Indians to take the life of one of the anointed of the Lord, of a member of this council and we all know what our obligations are, and we cannot fellowship brother Phineas as a member of this council unless he makes full satisfaction. O[rson] Spencer accords with the sentiments advanced by coun[selor] Kimball. Also referred to the case between E[lde]r Hyde and Jos[ep]h Young. P[hinehas] Young. Wish[ed] the Council to understand that in consequence of what had taken place he had said what he did say. He acknowledges he has done wrong and wishes brother Hyde and the council to forgive him. Bro. Hyde need have no fears of him for he will not injure him. David Fullmer made remarks similar to those by O Spencer. O Hyde wished to know why P[hinehas] Young believed that H[yde] wished to kill him. P[hinehas] Young. Related the circumstances of his being at Kanesville during the election. Of his hearing of a plan being laid to assassinate him. Of his being shot at one night after dark. This made him think there were designs against his life and did not know why men should do it unless they were told to. A[lexander] Badlam thinks if bro. Hyde is willing to forgive P[hinehas Young] he don't know why he should withstand. There is wrong all around according to the acknowledgments, but he could not consent to taking life. A[lmon] W. Babbit. Referred [to the fact] that there had been wrong on both sides. Bro. Hyde acknowledged to having had [ill] feelings [against Young ever] since O[liver] Cowdrey came to Winter Quarters. Referred to what his [Babbit's] own feelings would have been towards bro. Hyde if the reconciliation had not taken place. Thinks there is more gass in Bro. Phineas than intention to injure bro. Hyde. Thinks they ought to settle the matter as it was [done] last evening. ... J[edediah] M. Grant. Said that bro. Phineas has boasted to the citizens of this place that he had advised the Indians to kill bro. Hyde. He considers the crime a great one. If the U.S. Officers become informed of the fact, the U.S. will not deal with brother Phineas as mercifully as we do. If one member of this council can be trampled upon with impunity, [then] the wild savages can be set on him with impunity. H. C. Kimball. Spake of his good feelings towards brother Phineas. He will tell brother Phineas some things which will lead him down to hell [if he persists], i.e., if he don't bind himself up and not talk so much carelessly and it will do so [anyway] by any man if they don't quit it. Pres[ide]nt Brigham Young. His feelings are if Bro. Phineas will take back what he has said wherever he has stated it, and write the letter, and then make a solemn covenant never to take a step against any member of this council or an anointed of the Lord again without proper evidence, he will feel to forgive him. If he will make a covenant to never let his tongue make a fool of him again and make restitution he may be forgiven. The above decision of the president, was then put to a vote and passed in the affirmative.
[Selected Minutes of the Council of Fifty, Quinn Papers, Beinecke Library, as quoted in Jedediah S. Rogers (editor), The Council of Fifty: A Documentary History, Signature Books (2014)]
… [In the afternoon] H[eber] C. Kimball [said:]. ["]The difficulty between Joseph Young and Bro. Hyde seems to be settled. But the matter between Bro Hyde and Phineas Young does not appear to be settled. Bro. Phineas Young has laid plains [plans] with the Indians to take the life of one of the anointed of the Lord, of a member of this council and we all know what our obligations are, and we cannot fellowship brother Phineas as a member of this council unless he makes full satisfaction. O[rson] Spencer accords with the sentiments advanced by coun[selor] Kimball. Also referred to the case between E[lde]r Hyde and Jos[ep]h Young. P[hinehas] Young. Wish[ed] the Council to understand that in consequence of what had taken place he had said what he did say. He acknowledges he has done wrong and wishes brother Hyde and the council to forgive him. Bro. Hyde need have no fears of him for he will not injure him. David Fullmer made remarks similar to those by O Spencer. O Hyde wished to know why P[hinehas] Young believed that H[yde] wished to kill him. P[hinehas] Young. Related the circumstances of his being at Kanesville during the election. Of his hearing of a plan being laid to assassinate him. Of his being shot at one night after dark. This made him think there were designs against his life and did not know why men should do it unless they were told to. A[lexander] Badlam thinks if bro. Hyde is willing to forgive P[hinehas Young] he don't know why he should withstand. There is wrong all around according to the acknowledgments, but he could not consent to taking life. A[lmon] W. Babbit. Referred [to the fact] that there had been wrong on both sides. Bro. Hyde acknowledged to having had [ill] feelings [against Young ever] since O[liver] Cowdrey came to Winter Quarters. Referred to what his [Babbit's] own feelings would have been towards bro. Hyde if the reconciliation had not taken place. Thinks there is more gass in Bro. Phineas than intention to injure bro. Hyde. Thinks they ought to settle the matter as it was [done] last evening. ... J[edediah] M. Grant. Said that bro. Phineas has boasted to the citizens of this place that he had advised the Indians to kill bro. Hyde. He considers the crime a great one. If the U.S. Officers become informed of the fact, the U.S. will not deal with brother Phineas as mercifully as we do. If one member of this council can be trampled upon with impunity, [then] the wild savages can be set on him with impunity. H. C. Kimball. Spake of his good feelings towards brother Phineas. He will tell brother Phineas some things which will lead him down to hell [if he persists], i.e., if he don't bind himself up and not talk so much carelessly and it will do so [anyway] by any man if they don't quit it. Pres[ide]nt Brigham Young. His feelings are if Bro. Phineas will take back what he has said wherever he has stated it, and write the letter, and then make a solemn covenant never to take a step against any member of this council or an anointed of the Lord again without proper evidence, he will feel to forgive him. If he will make a covenant to never let his tongue make a fool of him again and make restitution he may be forgiven. The above decision of the president, was then put to a vote and passed in the affirmative.
[Selected Minutes of the Council of Fifty, Quinn Papers, Beinecke Library, as quoted in Jedediah S. Rogers (editor), The Council of Fifty: A Documentary History, Signature Books (2014)]
30 years ago today - Aug 21, 1991
Money magazine ranks Provo-Orem as America's "No. 1 most-livable metropolitan area." By 1985 it also has the highest rate of church membership in the nation.
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
80 years ago today - Aug 21, 1941
... There are in the Church today thousands of men holding the Melchizedek Priesthood who are inactive. Many of these men never understood the full significance of the meaning of Priesthood and what the obligation is upon them to magnify their callings when ordained. ...
This laxness has resulted in many men who have received the Priesthood, and who are not really worthy, returning to their evil habits and indifference, if these were ever forsaken. ... these presiding officers should faithfully impress upon all candidates for ordination the seriousness and responsibility which ordination to the Priesthood entails, and the dreadful consequences of disobedience or the violation of the covenants which are received when offices in the Priesthood are accepted. ... The new "Recommendation for ordination in the Priesthood" is to replace all other forms and each candidate is required to answer all the questions in person and sign the recommendation as indicated on its back.
Very sincerely your brethren, HEBER J. GRANT, J. REUBEN CLARK, JR., DAVID O. MCKAY, First Presidency.
[1941-August 21-Original circular letter, L.D.S. Church Archives, Salt Lake City, Utah; also Improvement Era 44:616, October, 1941, in Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
This laxness has resulted in many men who have received the Priesthood, and who are not really worthy, returning to their evil habits and indifference, if these were ever forsaken. ... these presiding officers should faithfully impress upon all candidates for ordination the seriousness and responsibility which ordination to the Priesthood entails, and the dreadful consequences of disobedience or the violation of the covenants which are received when offices in the Priesthood are accepted. ... The new "Recommendation for ordination in the Priesthood" is to replace all other forms and each candidate is required to answer all the questions in person and sign the recommendation as indicated on its back.
Very sincerely your brethren, HEBER J. GRANT, J. REUBEN CLARK, JR., DAVID O. MCKAY, First Presidency.
[1941-August 21-Original circular letter, L.D.S. Church Archives, Salt Lake City, Utah; also Improvement Era 44:616, October, 1941, in Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
160 years ago today - Aug 21, 1861
Had a conversation about the Characters of Abraham Lincoln & Stephen A. Douglas. President Young speaking of Abraham remarked if the Kingdom of God was not in the way, Abraham was a pretty good man, but he acted as if he would rather the Kingdom of God was out of the way; he was not the man to raise his voice in favor of Joseph Smith when his enemies were persecuting him, he with many others had assented to the deaths of innocent men, and through that he is subject to the influence of a wicked Spirit. -- Salt Lake City
[Brigham Young Office Journals, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
[Brigham Young Office Journals, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
190 years ago today - Aug 21, 1831
Nat Turner led about seventy slaves on a killing spree across the plantations of Southampton, Virginia, leaving fifty-five whites dead, escalating fears that and increasing rhetoric over the slave issue. Joseph Smith would prophecy on Dec 25, 1832 that "slaves shall rise up against their masters, who shall be marshaled and disciplined for war." (D&C 87:4).
In the Evening and Morning Star Extra of July 16, 1833, W. W. Phelps reassures the Missourians that "we fear, lest, as has been the case, the blacks should rise and spill innocent blood: for they are ignorant, and a little may lead them to disturb the peace of society ..."
[Grunder, Rick, Mormon Parallels: A Bibliographic Source]
In the Evening and Morning Star Extra of July 16, 1833, W. W. Phelps reassures the Missourians that "we fear, lest, as has been the case, the blacks should rise and spill innocent blood: for they are ignorant, and a little may lead them to disturb the peace of society ..."
[Grunder, Rick, Mormon Parallels: A Bibliographic Source]
130 years ago today - Aug 20, 1891
Brother [Heber J.] Grant questioned the advisability of our taking the ground that the manifesto was intended to cover the ground of our recognizing the validity of the law as far as unlawful cohabitation was concerned, as well as polygamous marriages. He thought if we went before the court stating that the manifesto was intended only to stop plural marriages, but that we recognized it to be our duty to live with our plural wives, at our own risk, it would be a better position to take. This led to Brother F[ranklin]. S. Richard explaining to Brother [John W.] Taylor that our going into court was not an original suit on our part, but that we were required to go, and explain the meaning and the scope of the manifesto, as it was on the ground that our Church funds were used for the purpose of propagating unlawful marriages that our property was escheated, and our showing the court that we were sincere in the issuing and adopting of the manifesto would be fundamental ground for the recovery of our property, besides the political standing it would give us before the nation. ... Brother Grant, having had a previous conversation with President [Joseph F.] Smith, asked him if he was now satisfied with regard to the manifesto being a revelation from God. President Smith answered emphatically no. He then went on to explain how he did regard the manifesto. He believed that President [Wilford] Woodruff was inspired to write the manifesto in consequence of the situation in which we were placed, and that because of the circumstances in which we were placed before the government, the Lord sanctioned it. But he did not believe it to be an emphatic revelation from God abolishing plural marriage. President Cannon, referring the remarks of President Smith, said he regarded President Smith's understanding upon this matter to be his [i.e., Cannon's]; that he himself did not regard the manifesto as a revelation abolishing polygamy, for the reason that that was an eternal principle, and could not be abolished by anybody; but in believing that President Woodruff was inspired to write the manifesto, he also believed it to be a revelation from God, for the reason that a revelation, as he conceived it to be, was a communication of God's will to man, irrespective of the form in which it may be written.
President Cannon's view was fully endorsed by Brother L[orenzo]. Snow and the Council generally. President Woodruff, expressing himself in this connection, said he foresaw what was coming upon us; that our temples were in danger, and the work for the dead liable to be stopped, and he believed he would have lived to have witnessed the hand of the government extended to crush us; but the Lord did not intend that Zion should be crushed, and He averted the blow by inspiring me to write and issue the manifesto, and it certainly has had the effect of doing it so far. How long it may remain in force it is not for me to say, that is for God alone to say. As for the principle, it is eternal and will stand forever. Brethren, you may call it inspiration or revelation, or what you please; as for me, I am satisfied it is from God. A general expression of endorsement was made.
[First Presidency Office Journal, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
President Cannon's view was fully endorsed by Brother L[orenzo]. Snow and the Council generally. President Woodruff, expressing himself in this connection, said he foresaw what was coming upon us; that our temples were in danger, and the work for the dead liable to be stopped, and he believed he would have lived to have witnessed the hand of the government extended to crush us; but the Lord did not intend that Zion should be crushed, and He averted the blow by inspiring me to write and issue the manifesto, and it certainly has had the effect of doing it so far. How long it may remain in force it is not for me to say, that is for God alone to say. As for the principle, it is eternal and will stand forever. Brethren, you may call it inspiration or revelation, or what you please; as for me, I am satisfied it is from God. A general expression of endorsement was made.
[First Presidency Office Journal, 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 - Aug 20, 1891
Pres[iden]t. W[ilford] W[oodruff]. Stated object of meeting to decide what showing to make before the Master in Chancery as to a scheme for dividing or awarding about $400,000. of Personal Property seized by Receiver in the late Church suit of disincorporation. Answers to Questions by Pres[iden]t Snow & Elder A[nthon]. H. Lund, were read considered & generally app[ro]v[e]d.
[Franklin D. Richards, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
[Franklin D. Richards, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
135 years ago today - Friday, Aug. 20th, 1886
[Abraham H. Cannon]
After breakfast we went out for a walk when Father [George Q. Cannon] told me that Bro. Moses Thatcher had preached that the people were to be robbed of all their political rights and brought into great bondage, and when it would seem as though there was no escape the people would cry unto God who would then send to them the man like unto Moses of whom the Doc. and Cov. speaks; this should be the Prophet Joseph resurrected, Bro. Thatcher claims no revelation for these things, which he says is all to occur within five years, but has made deductions from ancient and modern prophecies. Father says it has not been made known to him that this doctrine is correct, and he does not approve of its being taught. Father told me of his deep financial embarrassments. Besides his bonds, which he feels he must in honor pay, he seems on the point of losing considerable in John Beck's mine, where he invested at Pres. Taylor's wish and suggestion. He says he sees nothing but ruin ahead, though he has faith God will yet relieve him.
[Abraham H. Cannon Journal Excerpts, http://www.amazon.com/Apostles-Record-Journals-Abraham-1889-1896/dp/B000MFD1K4]
After breakfast we went out for a walk when Father [George Q. Cannon] told me that Bro. Moses Thatcher had preached that the people were to be robbed of all their political rights and brought into great bondage, and when it would seem as though there was no escape the people would cry unto God who would then send to them the man like unto Moses of whom the Doc. and Cov. speaks; this should be the Prophet Joseph resurrected, Bro. Thatcher claims no revelation for these things, which he says is all to occur within five years, but has made deductions from ancient and modern prophecies. Father says it has not been made known to him that this doctrine is correct, and he does not approve of its being taught. Father told me of his deep financial embarrassments. Besides his bonds, which he feels he must in honor pay, he seems on the point of losing considerable in John Beck's mine, where he invested at Pres. Taylor's wish and suggestion. He says he sees nothing but ruin ahead, though he has faith God will yet relieve him.
[Abraham H. Cannon Journal Excerpts, http://www.amazon.com/Apostles-Record-Journals-Abraham-1889-1896/dp/B000MFD1K4]
150 years ago today - Aug 20, 1871
Apostle Orson Pratt preaches: "Some may inquire, 'Do you think the sun is a glorified world?' Yes, in one sense. It is not yet fully glorified, redeemed, clothed with celestial power, and crowned with the presence of the Father in all the fullness and beauty of a celestial mansion, because it is still subject to change more or less. If it were fully glorified; if it had passed through its temporal existence and had been redeemed, glorified, and made celestial, and had become the eternal abiding place of celestial and glorified beings, it would be far more glorious than our eyes could behold, the eyes of mortality could not endure the light thereof." ...
"Much might be said in this connection with regard to the doctrine of plurality of wives. There is a difference between the male and the female so far as posterity is concerned. The female is so capacitated that she can only be the mother of a very limited number of children. Is man thus capacitated? . . .Were not many of the ancient prophets and inspired men capable of raising twenty, forty, fifty, or a hundred children, while the females could only raise a very limited number on an average. . . . Would a monogamist have power to fill a world with spirits sooner than a polygamist? Which would accomplish the peopling of a world quickest, provided that we admit this eternal increase, and the eternal relationship of husband and wife-after the resurrection as well as in this world?" ...
"There are no marriages among spirits, no coupling together of the males and females among them; but when they rise from the grave after being tabernacled in mortal bodies, they have all the functions that are necessary to people worlds. As our Father and God begat us sons and daughters, so will we rise immortal males and females, and beget children and, in our turn, form and create worlds, and send forth our spirit children to inherit those worlds, the same as we were sent here, and thus will the works of God continue, and not only God himself, and His Son Jesus Christ have the power of endless lives, but all of His redeemed offspring."
[Journal of Discourses 14:242]
"Much might be said in this connection with regard to the doctrine of plurality of wives. There is a difference between the male and the female so far as posterity is concerned. The female is so capacitated that she can only be the mother of a very limited number of children. Is man thus capacitated? . . .Were not many of the ancient prophets and inspired men capable of raising twenty, forty, fifty, or a hundred children, while the females could only raise a very limited number on an average. . . . Would a monogamist have power to fill a world with spirits sooner than a polygamist? Which would accomplish the peopling of a world quickest, provided that we admit this eternal increase, and the eternal relationship of husband and wife-after the resurrection as well as in this world?" ...
"There are no marriages among spirits, no coupling together of the males and females among them; but when they rise from the grave after being tabernacled in mortal bodies, they have all the functions that are necessary to people worlds. As our Father and God begat us sons and daughters, so will we rise immortal males and females, and beget children and, in our turn, form and create worlds, and send forth our spirit children to inherit those worlds, the same as we were sent here, and thus will the works of God continue, and not only God himself, and His Son Jesus Christ have the power of endless lives, but all of His redeemed offspring."
[Journal of Discourses 14:242]
30 years ago today - Aug 19, 1991
A legal holiday commemorates one hundred years of Mormon presence in Tonga, which issues two postage stamps for the occasion. King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV speaks at commemorative services. One-third of Tonga's population is LDS.
[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)]]
100 years ago today - Aug 19, 1921
[James E. Talmage]
A decision is made for the Church to widely distribute the Book of Mormon to public libraries.
[Chronology of the Life and Work of James E. Talmage, J. Trevor Antley, https://docs.google.com/document/d/1MJsHY83JZL_n6CjWq11y1trT_CVXMMXAx2uYOWAwn0c/edit#heading=h.2zfdaoa]
A decision is made for the Church to widely distribute the Book of Mormon to public libraries.
[Chronology of the Life and Work of James E. Talmage, J. Trevor Antley, https://docs.google.com/document/d/1MJsHY83JZL_n6CjWq11y1trT_CVXMMXAx2uYOWAwn0c/edit#heading=h.2zfdaoa]
115 years ago today - Aug 19, 1906
Philo T. Farnsworth, Mormon inventor and ―the father of television, born near Beaver, Utah.
[Sherry Baker: Mormon Media History Timeline: 1827-2007, http://byustudies.byu.edu/showTitle.aspx?title=7984]
[Sherry Baker: Mormon Media History Timeline: 1827-2007, http://byustudies.byu.edu/showTitle.aspx?title=7984]
120 years ago today - Aug 19, 1901
It is decided to create a visitor's center near the south entrance to Temple Square. The center will be "provided with a tract for free distribution, specially written to cover a brief history of the church, its first principles, and a description of places of interest in Salt Lake City, general tracts treating the principles of the gospel from our standpoint, and other church literature; that the bureau should be in charge of two young men, naturally adapted for the work, to be called as missionaries for two years, one to distribute the literature and the other to operate as a missionary on the temple block."
155 years ago today - Aug 19, 1866
[Brigham Young]
... The man Joseph, the husband of Mary, did not, that we know of, have more than one wife, but Mary the wife of Joseph had another husband. On this account infidels have called the Savior a bastard. This is merely a human opinion upon one of the inscrutable doings of the Almighty. That very babe that was cradled in the manger, was begotten, not by Joseph, the husband of Mary, but by another Being. Do you inquire by whom? He was begotten by God our heavenly Father. This answer may suffice you'"you need never inquire more upon that point. Jesus Christ is the only begotten of the Father, and he is the Saviour of the world, and full of grace and truth.
... if you have in your hearts to say: '"We will pass along in the Church without obeying or submitting to it in our faith or believing this order, because, for aught that we know, this community may be broken up yet, and we may have lucrative offices offered to us; we will not, therefore, be polygamists lest we should fail in obtaining some earthly honor, character and office, etc,'"'"the man that has that in his heart, and will continue to persist in pursuing that policy, will come short of dwelling in the presence of the Father and the Son, in celestial glory. The only men who become Gods, even the Sons of God, are those who enter into polygamy. Others attain unto a glory and may even be permitted to come into the presence of the Father and the Son; but they cannot reign as kings in glory, because they had blessings offered unto them, and they refused to accept them. The Lord gave a revelation through Joseph Smith, His servant; and we have believed and practiced it....
The Lamanites or Indians are just as much the children of our Father and God as we are. So also are the Africans. But we are also the children of adoption through obedience to the Gospel of his Son. Why are so many of the inhabitants of the earth cursed with a sin of blackness? It comes in consequence of their fathers rejecting the power of the Holy Priesthood, and the law of God. They will go down to death. And when all the rest of the children have received their blessings in the Holy Priesthood, then that curse will be removed from the seed of Cain, and they will then come up and possess the priesthood, and receive all the blessings which we now are entitled to. The volition of the creature is free; this is a law of their existence, and the Lord cannot violate his own law; were he to do that, he would cease to be God.
[Journal of Discourses, Liverpool, England, 1853-86, 11:266-272, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
... The man Joseph, the husband of Mary, did not, that we know of, have more than one wife, but Mary the wife of Joseph had another husband. On this account infidels have called the Savior a bastard. This is merely a human opinion upon one of the inscrutable doings of the Almighty. That very babe that was cradled in the manger, was begotten, not by Joseph, the husband of Mary, but by another Being. Do you inquire by whom? He was begotten by God our heavenly Father. This answer may suffice you'"you need never inquire more upon that point. Jesus Christ is the only begotten of the Father, and he is the Saviour of the world, and full of grace and truth.
... if you have in your hearts to say: '"We will pass along in the Church without obeying or submitting to it in our faith or believing this order, because, for aught that we know, this community may be broken up yet, and we may have lucrative offices offered to us; we will not, therefore, be polygamists lest we should fail in obtaining some earthly honor, character and office, etc,'"'"the man that has that in his heart, and will continue to persist in pursuing that policy, will come short of dwelling in the presence of the Father and the Son, in celestial glory. The only men who become Gods, even the Sons of God, are those who enter into polygamy. Others attain unto a glory and may even be permitted to come into the presence of the Father and the Son; but they cannot reign as kings in glory, because they had blessings offered unto them, and they refused to accept them. The Lord gave a revelation through Joseph Smith, His servant; and we have believed and practiced it....
The Lamanites or Indians are just as much the children of our Father and God as we are. So also are the Africans. But we are also the children of adoption through obedience to the Gospel of his Son. Why are so many of the inhabitants of the earth cursed with a sin of blackness? It comes in consequence of their fathers rejecting the power of the Holy Priesthood, and the law of God. They will go down to death. And when all the rest of the children have received their blessings in the Holy Priesthood, then that curse will be removed from the seed of Cain, and they will then come up and possess the priesthood, and receive all the blessings which we now are entitled to. The volition of the creature is free; this is a law of their existence, and the Lord cannot violate his own law; were he to do that, he would cease to be God.
[Journal of Discourses, Liverpool, England, 1853-86, 11:266-272, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
165 years ago today - Aug 19, 1856
[Wilford Woodruff]
I procured A Utah Mountain spider or Tarantula which I preserved in a tin Box to send with other insects to Dr Fitch of New York.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
I procured A Utah Mountain spider or Tarantula which I preserved in a tin Box to send with other insects to Dr Fitch of New York.
[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 - Aug 19, 1856
Brigham Young's representative "Wild" Bill Hickman and his Indian wife Margaret, both dressed in their beaded-buckskin suits, meet with forty lodges of Indians (numbering about three hundred). Gifts are distributed. The Indians believed Brigham Young had supplied the gifts, when they were in fact presents from the U.S. government.
175 years ago today - Aug 19, 1846
[Letter to Mormon Battalion]
Camp of Israel, Omaha Nation, Cutler's Park, August 19, 1846. To Captain Jefferson Hunt and the Officers, and Soldiers of the Mormon Battalion:- We have the opportunity of sending to Fort Leavenworth this morning, by Dr. Reed, a package of twenty-five letters, which we improve, with this word of counsel to you all: If you are sick, live by faith, and let surgeon's medicine alone if you want to live, using only such herbs and mild foods as are at your disposal. If you give heed to this counsel, you will prosper; but if not, we cannot be responsible for the consequences. A hint to the wise is sufficient.
In behalf of the Council, BRIGHAM YOUNG, President. W. Richards, Clerk.
[1846-August 19-RCH 2:239, in Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
Camp of Israel, Omaha Nation, Cutler's Park, August 19, 1846. To Captain Jefferson Hunt and the Officers, and Soldiers of the Mormon Battalion:- We have the opportunity of sending to Fort Leavenworth this morning, by Dr. Reed, a package of twenty-five letters, which we improve, with this word of counsel to you all: If you are sick, live by faith, and let surgeon's medicine alone if you want to live, using only such herbs and mild foods as are at your disposal. If you give heed to this counsel, you will prosper; but if not, we cannot be responsible for the consequences. A hint to the wise is sufficient.
In behalf of the Council, BRIGHAM YOUNG, President. W. Richards, Clerk.
[1846-August 19-RCH 2:239, in Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
115 years ago today - Aug 18, 1906
[Andrew Jenson]
Worked at the H[istorian's]. O[ffice]. I also called on Patriarch John Smith to see the Seer Stone formerly in possession of the late Edward Rushton. It is about the size of a duck's egg and somewhat similar in shape. But I could see nothing in it, though at first I thought I could.
[Andrew Jenson 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]
Worked at the H[istorian's]. O[ffice]. I also called on Patriarch John Smith to see the Seer Stone formerly in possession of the late Edward Rushton. It is about the size of a duck's egg and somewhat similar in shape. But I could see nothing in it, though at first I thought I could.
[Andrew Jenson 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 - Aug 18, 1896
Wilford Woodruff receives revelation concerning recent death of Apostle Abraham H. Cannon, which Woodruff relates next general conference. Paraphrased text published in DESERET NEWS report of his Oct. 1896 sermon. This revelation's full text is never published or canonized. Woodruff also relates that on this night "I was vary much troubled in the fore part of the night with Evil spirits that tried to Afflict me. Finally A spirit visit[ed] me that seemed to have power over the Evil spirits And they departed from me. I had Concluded not to attend the Mormon Meeting for Testimony in the City but the spirit said to me it was wisdom for us to Attend the Testimony Meeting as the Saints knew we were here in the City and if we did not attend it would have a bad Effect upon the Saints so I Concluded to Attend."
165 years ago today - Aug 18, 1856
... Most of the Crops [in the Salmon River Mission] had been destroyed by the grass hoppers but thought they had raised about 200 bushels of wheat 50 of which would be Cut & the remainder would be draged in for seed.
[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]
165 years ago today - Aug 18, 1856
The Willie handcart company leaves Florence (Winter Quarters), Nebraska, for the Salt Lake Valley.
180 years ago today - Aug 18, 1841, Wednesday
In conformity with the foregoing item of law, 7 in the Summer and Fall of the year 1841, the brethern entered into measures to build a baptismal font in the cellar floor near the east end of the temple. President Joseph approved and accepted a draft for the font, made by Brother William Weeks; and on the 18th day of August of that year, Elder Weeks began to labor on the construction of the font with his own hands. He labored six days and then committed the work to carpenters.
[Fillerup, Robert C., compiler; William Clayton Nauvoo Diaries and Personal Writings, A chronological compilation of the personal writings of William Clayton while he was a resident of Nauvoo, Illinois. http://www.boap.org/LDS/Early-Saints/clayton-diaries]
[Fillerup, Robert C., compiler; William Clayton Nauvoo Diaries and Personal Writings, A chronological compilation of the personal writings of William Clayton while he was a resident of Nauvoo, Illinois. http://www.boap.org/LDS/Early-Saints/clayton-diaries]
70 years ago today - Aug 17,1951
First Presidency statement that church's restriction on negroid peoples receiving priesthood "is not a matter of the declaration of policy but of direct commandment from the Lord."
[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]
135 years ago today - Aug 17, 1886 (Tuesday)
Apostle John W. Taylor was arrested at Pocatello, Idaho, on a charge of treason.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
170 years ago today - Aug 17, 1851 (Sunday)
Apostle Orson Hyde, Albert Carrington and others arrived in G.S.L. City from Kanesville, Ia., accompanied by Perry E. Brocchus, one of the newly appointed judges for Utah; they brought with them a brass cannon.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
175 years ago today - Aug 17, 1846
[Wilford Woodruff]
It was Announced this morning that Porter Rockwell had arived in Camp And brought the Mail from Nauvoo. ... The same Paper informed us that the mob spirit was still alive in Hancock Co that they were still mobing, whiping, And killing each other in that County. The Saints were leaving as fast as possible And the new citizens had taken the matter in hand And the war was now between them And the mob.
I was in council with the Twelve & High Council. Porter Rockwell was with us. He was kept in jail as long as they Could & when brought to Court no man appeared against him so He was discharged & came to the Camp.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
It was Announced this morning that Porter Rockwell had arived in Camp And brought the Mail from Nauvoo. ... The same Paper informed us that the mob spirit was still alive in Hancock Co that they were still mobing, whiping, And killing each other in that County. The Saints were leaving as fast as possible And the new citizens had taken the matter in hand And the war was now between them And the mob.
I was in council with the Twelve & High Council. Porter Rockwell was with us. He was kept in jail as long as they Could & when brought to Court no man appeared against him so He was discharged & came to the Camp.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
40 years ago today - Aug 15, 1981
LDS Church News reports that a married couple has been "teaching folk, square and some ballroom dances" to Indians in primarily Christian Goa, while "serving as Church representatives to teach recreation in India." LDS missionary work in India is limited by laws forbidding foreigners to overtly proselytize. Since the conversion and baptism in 1965 of S. Paul Thiruthuvadoss, who sought out LDS leaders to teach him, proselytizing on the Indian subcontinent is conducted by native converts.
[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)]]
55 years ago today - Aug 15, 1966
A First Presidency letter that "after the expiration of one year from the date of death, temple ordinances may be performed for all deceased persons, except those of known Negro blood, without the consideration of worthiness or any other qualification." Until the 1970s the LDS Genealogical Department flags the records of "those of known Negro blood" to avoid the performance of proxy endowment and sealing ceremonies for them. In 1974 church authorities quietly agree to end this practice, after being informed of a potential NAACP lawsuit and Congressional investigation of this racially discriminatory use of such federal records as the U.S. census.
[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 - Aug 15, 1951
CHURCH NEWS reports that Finland has given its "Silver Cross" to LDS mission president Henry A/ Matis for allowing one of his missionaries to coach Finnish National Basketball team for international competition.
145 years ago today - Aug 15, 1876
Brigham Young sermon: Very Few Will Inherit Celestial Glory - Lust After the Things of the World Produces Apostasy
[Journal of Discourses 18:212 - 217, http://jod.mrm.org]
[Journal of Discourses 18:212 - 217, http://jod.mrm.org]
175 years ago today - Aug 15, 1846
[Wilford Woodruff]
I Baptized Phebe in the evening for the restoration of her health. It seemed to be a benefit to her.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
I Baptized Phebe in the evening for the restoration of her health. It seemed to be a benefit to her.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
180 years ago today - Aug 15, 1841
Joseph's 14-month-old son, Don Carlos, dies in Nauvoo. Death is becoming so widespread at this time in and around Nauvoo that Sidney Rigdon begins preaching a "general" funeral sermon.
[Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
190 years ago today - Aug 15, 1831
A non-Mormon journalist who visited the Manchester/Palmyra area writes, "On the sides & in the slopes of several of these hills, these excavations [by Smith and his associates in search of chests of money] are still to be seen".
[Bennett, James Gordon (31 August 1831), "Mormonism-Religious Fanaticism-Church and State Party", Morning Courier & Enquirer 7 (562) in Arrington 1970, 5 (online ed.), in Wikipedia: Chronology of Mormonism, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_Mormonism]
[Bennett, James Gordon (31 August 1831), "Mormonism-Religious Fanaticism-Church and State Party", Morning Courier & Enquirer 7 (562) in Arrington 1970, 5 (online ed.), in Wikipedia: Chronology of Mormonism, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_Mormonism]
40 years ago today - Aug 15, 1981
LDS Church News reports that a married couple has been "teaching folk, square and some ballroom dances" to Indians in primarily Christian Goa, while "serving as Church representatives to teach recreation in India." LDS missionary work in India is limited by laws forbidding foreigners to overtly proselytize. Since the conversion and baptism in 1965 of S. Paul Thiruthuvadoss, who sought out LDS leaders to teach him, proselytizing on the Indian subcontinent is conducted by native converts.
[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)]]
55 years ago today - Aug 15, 1966
A First Presidency letter that "after the expiration of one year from the date of death, temple ordinances may be performed for all deceased persons, except those of known Negro blood, without the consideration of worthiness or any other qualification." Until the 1970s the LDS Genealogical Department flags the records of "those of known Negro blood" to avoid the performance of proxy endowment and sealing ceremonies for them. In 1974 church authorities quietly agree to end this practice, after being informed of a potential NAACP lawsuit and Congressional investigation of this racially discriminatory use of such federal records as the U.S. census.
[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 - Aug 15, 1951
CHURCH NEWS reports that Finland has given its "Silver Cross" to LDS mission president Henry A/ Matis for allowing one of his missionaries to coach Finnish National Basketball team for international competition.
145 years ago today - Aug 15, 1876
Brigham Young sermon: Very Few Will Inherit Celestial Glory - Lust After the Things of the World Produces Apostasy
[Journal of Discourses 18:212 - 217, http://jod.mrm.org]
[Journal of Discourses 18:212 - 217, http://jod.mrm.org]
175 years ago today - Aug 15, 1846
[Wilford Woodruff]
I Baptized Phebe in the evening for the restoration of her health. It seemed to be a benefit to her.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
I Baptized Phebe in the evening for the restoration of her health. It seemed to be a benefit to her.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
180 years ago today - Aug 15, 1841
Joseph's 14-month-old son, Don Carlos, dies in Nauvoo. Death is becoming so widespread at this time in and around Nauvoo that Sidney Rigdon begins preaching a "general" funeral sermon.
[Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
190 years ago today - Aug 15, 1831
A non-Mormon journalist who visited the Manchester/Palmyra area writes, "On the sides & in the slopes of several of these hills, these excavations [by Smith and his associates in search of chests of money] are still to be seen".
[Bennett, James Gordon (31 August 1831), "Mormonism-Religious Fanaticism-Church and State Party", Morning Courier & Enquirer 7 (562) in Arrington 1970, 5 (online ed.), in Wikipedia: Chronology of Mormonism, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_Mormonism]
[Bennett, James Gordon (31 August 1831), "Mormonism-Religious Fanaticism-Church and State Party", Morning Courier & Enquirer 7 (562) in Arrington 1970, 5 (online ed.), in Wikipedia: Chronology of Mormonism, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_Mormonism]
45 years ago today - Aug 14,1976
New York Times reports U.S. patent granted to Mormons G. Richard Jacobs, Cluff Peck, Dean G. Doderquist for "speaking mannequins" at LDS information centers.
[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]
125 years ago today - Aug 14, 1896
[Apostle Franklin D. Richards]
Today I received a copy of the "Moses Thatcher memorial of his friends" &c with the intimation that it was or would be suppressed A pamphlet of 86 pages octavo.
[Diary Excerpts of Franklin D. Richards, 1887-1897, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
Today I received a copy of the "Moses Thatcher memorial of his friends" &c with the intimation that it was or would be suppressed A pamphlet of 86 pages octavo.
[Diary Excerpts of Franklin D. Richards, 1887-1897, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
140 years ago today - Aug 14, 1881
Wilford Woodruff continued to warn church members of the approaching "hour." At an 1881 conference in Manti he promised "that thousands of the children of the latter day saints would not die but would live to see the Saviour come."
[Larson and Larson, Diary of Charles L. Walker, 2:563-64, 14 Aug. 1881., http://signaturebookslibrary.org/?p=5708, as quoted in The Last Days and December 1890 2nd Coming of Jesus Christ, y George D. Speer Sr., privately circulated]
[Larson and Larson, Diary of Charles L. Walker, 2:563-64, 14 Aug. 1881., http://signaturebookslibrary.org/?p=5708, as quoted in The Last Days and December 1890 2nd Coming of Jesus Christ, y George D. Speer Sr., privately circulated]
165 years ago today - Aug 14, 1856
Wyman's Saint Louis Museum advertises in the SAINT LOUIS MISSOURI DEMOCRAT that "two mummies from the Catacombs of Egypt" are on display. These mummies formerly belonged to the LDS church. They stay in St. Louis for fifteen years before being moved to Chicago. Papyri found with the mummies are also displayed at the museum. Leipzig Egyptologist Gustavus Seyffarth was able to read the name of the person for whom Facsimile No. 3 was made. A contemporary account reports: ". . . according to Prof. Seyffarth, the papyrus roll is not a record, but an invocation to the Deity Osirus, in which occurs the name of the person, (Horus,) and a picture of the attendant spirits, introducing the dead to the Judge, Osirus." When the original of facsimile No. 1 resurfaces in 1967 the hieroglyphs in the margins give "Horus" as the person for whom the scroll was written.
195 years ago today - Aug 14, 1826
William Morgan, a disaffected Freemason from Batavia, New York, registers a copyright for an exposé of Masonic rituals. (See December 1826 entry, regarding publication.)
[Wikipedia: Chronology of Mormonism, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_Mormonism]
[Wikipedia: Chronology of Mormonism, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_Mormonism]
165 years ago today - Aug 13, 1856
... The small pox has been brought into Great Salt Lake county by a company which lately came in from the States ... And in case any of the inhabitants should be seized by a disease, which has been so scandalously kept secret, all parties concerned are required to use every precaution to prevent its spreading beyond such persons. Among the precautionary measures, let every locality of the disease be amply guarded by plain and abundant notices conspicuously posted at every approach thereto; and let there be no communication with the diseased, except by those who are not liable to the contagion. BRIGHAM YOUNG, HEBER C. KIMBALL, JEDEDIAH M. GRANT.
[1856-August 13-DN 6:181, in Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
[1856-August 13-DN 6:181, in Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
175 years ago today - Aug 13, 1846 (Thursday)
About this time the mobbers in Hancock County, Ill., concluded to drive the few remaining "Mormon" families from Nauvoo.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
30 years ago today - Aug 12, 1991
Associated Press Story: "Mormon Church officials lied when they said they had no way of 'finally verifying' whether a former church official's accounts of his war and baseball experiences were accurate, a reporter claimed Saturday. Lynn Packer, whose research into Paul H. Dunn's stories showed several had been fabricated, said members of the faith's Quorum of the Twelve Apostles were well aware the stories were false when Dunn was abruptly retired from the church's hierarchy in 1989 for reasons of 'health and age.' Packer told an audience at the Sunstone Symposium that church leaders had conducted at least two internal inquiries into the veracity of Dunn's stories and whether he had falsified copies of tax documents. The second investigation was headed by a church attorney, Harry Pugsley, with whom Packer, a Mormon, said he cooperated. 'His report, confirming the allegations, was delivered to the Quorum of the Twelve just couple of weeks before Paul Dunn was given emeritus status,' Packer said."
60 years ago today - Aug 12, 1961
U.S. president John F. Kennedy appoints Esther W. Eggertsen Peterson as assistant secretary of the U.S. Labor Department, the first Mormon woman in a sub-Cabinet position.
[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)]]
120 years ago today - Aug 12, 1901
[William H. Smart]
After dinner Apostle [Matthias F.] Cowley desired that we take a ride up to Bro[ther]. Shanks and get some flowers. On the way he said he wanted to have a private talk with me. He said although Plural marriage had to be suspended on account of our enemies yet it is an eternal principle and he gave me to infer that in the due time of the Lord it will be again practiced. He said that the people should be taught that it is right, yet in wisdom. He said I should teach it to my wife and with prayerful hearts we should seek to be ready to embrace it when or if opportunity is afforded. He said such men as me'full of faith and integrity proven'should have this blessing. I told him my wife and I are converted to this principle and that upon recommending to the temple or ordaining to the priesthood and setting apart to offices I had often asked this question as to their belief. He heartily commended me for this.
[William H. Smart, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
After dinner Apostle [Matthias F.] Cowley desired that we take a ride up to Bro[ther]. Shanks and get some flowers. On the way he said he wanted to have a private talk with me. He said although Plural marriage had to be suspended on account of our enemies yet it is an eternal principle and he gave me to infer that in the due time of the Lord it will be again practiced. He said that the people should be taught that it is right, yet in wisdom. He said I should teach it to my wife and with prayerful hearts we should seek to be ready to embrace it when or if opportunity is afforded. He said such men as me'full of faith and integrity proven'should have this blessing. I told him my wife and I are converted to this principle and that upon recommending to the temple or ordaining to the priesthood and setting apart to offices I had often asked this question as to their belief. He heartily commended me for this.
[William H. Smart, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
155 years ago today - Aug 12, 1866
Brigham Young preaches: "Why does not our government make a law to say how many children a man shall have? They might as well do so as to make a law to say how many wives a man shall have."
155 years ago today - Aug 12, 1866
[Brigham Young]
... Do we wish to destroy people? We do not, not even those ignorant, bloodthirsty Lamanites. Did we ever destroy? No; it is not our doctrine; but our doctrine is to build up and save life instead of destroying it. Is it necessary on any occasion, and under any circumstances whatever? Yes, let a man meet me with a design to kill me, and I am going to get the first blow if I can. I have not come to die for the sins of the world as our Savior, Jesus Christ, did. It was necessary for him to be killed; but it is not necessary for me. ... The man who was referred to this morning has given testimony against us, respecting matters here, which is utterly false. After making such infamous statements, that man could not live here twenty-four hours, if it were not that we are Latter-day Saints who live here. By letting him alone, however, he will kill himself. There is also a man down the street who tried to exhibit the endowments to a party who was here. You will see what becomes of that man. Do not touch him. He has forfeited every right and title to eternal life; but let him alone, and you will see by and by what will become of him. His heart will ache, and so will the heart of every apostate that fights against Zion; they will destroy themselves. It is a mistaken idea that God destroys people, or that the Saints wish to destroy them. ...
[Journal of Discourses. Liverpool, England, 1853-86. 11:257-263, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
... Do we wish to destroy people? We do not, not even those ignorant, bloodthirsty Lamanites. Did we ever destroy? No; it is not our doctrine; but our doctrine is to build up and save life instead of destroying it. Is it necessary on any occasion, and under any circumstances whatever? Yes, let a man meet me with a design to kill me, and I am going to get the first blow if I can. I have not come to die for the sins of the world as our Savior, Jesus Christ, did. It was necessary for him to be killed; but it is not necessary for me. ... The man who was referred to this morning has given testimony against us, respecting matters here, which is utterly false. After making such infamous statements, that man could not live here twenty-four hours, if it were not that we are Latter-day Saints who live here. By letting him alone, however, he will kill himself. There is also a man down the street who tried to exhibit the endowments to a party who was here. You will see what becomes of that man. Do not touch him. He has forfeited every right and title to eternal life; but let him alone, and you will see by and by what will become of him. His heart will ache, and so will the heart of every apostate that fights against Zion; they will destroy themselves. It is a mistaken idea that God destroys people, or that the Saints wish to destroy them. ...
[Journal of Discourses. Liverpool, England, 1853-86. 11:257-263, 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 - Aug 12, 1861
[Brigham Young]
Some of the women might be favorable to a plurality of husbands observed the President, and that might induce them to join Morris[.] He said a continuation of their Slothfulness would bring [Morrisites] them to the level of Indians and those that had joined had been induced through promises of getting an easier living.
[Brigham Young Office Journals, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
Some of the women might be favorable to a plurality of husbands observed the President, and that might induce them to join Morris[.] He said a continuation of their Slothfulness would bring [Morrisites] them to the level of Indians and those that had joined had been induced through promises of getting an easier living.
[Brigham Young Office Journals, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
165 years ago today - Oct 12, 1856
In a Sunday afternoon address in the Bowery on Temple Square, Mormon Apostle Heber C. Kimball declares, "You might as well deny 'Mormonism,' and turn away from it, as to oppose the plurality of wives. Let the Presidency of this Church, and the Twelve Apostles, and all the authorities unite and say with one voice that they will oppose that doctrine, and the whole of them would be damned"
[Journal of Discourses, Vol. 5, p. 203 in Watchman Fellowship Inc, Historical Events, Notable Doctrines: Mormonism Overview, http://www.watchman.org/lds/ldshst96.htm]
[Journal of Discourses, Vol. 5, p. 203 in Watchman Fellowship Inc, Historical Events, Notable Doctrines: Mormonism Overview, http://www.watchman.org/lds/ldshst96.htm]
175 years ago today - Aug 12, 1846
[Hosea Stout]
The whole "Camp of Israel" was now Divided into two grand divisions that is Brighams Company the first and Hebers company the second division.
It was to day divided into sub divisions by order of the council and Brigham came around to day dividing it off and set me to making out a roll of one of these Sub divisions to be ready for organizing this evening which was done by a meeting called by the President and a Forman apointed to each sub-division who was to have the charge of all the men & boys in his sub division and all were to work under him & he be subject to the council. Thus all the force of the camp could easily be called into requisition by the council to advantage
I was in the Fourth sub-division in the First Grand division of the Camp of Israel and Welcome Chapman was appointed Foreman. There was ten sub-divisions in the First Grand Division.
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
The whole "Camp of Israel" was now Divided into two grand divisions that is Brighams Company the first and Hebers company the second division.
It was to day divided into sub divisions by order of the council and Brigham came around to day dividing it off and set me to making out a roll of one of these Sub divisions to be ready for organizing this evening which was done by a meeting called by the President and a Forman apointed to each sub-division who was to have the charge of all the men & boys in his sub division and all were to work under him & he be subject to the council. Thus all the force of the camp could easily be called into requisition by the council to advantage
I was in the Fourth sub-division in the First Grand division of the Camp of Israel and Welcome Chapman was appointed Foreman. There was ten sub-divisions in the First Grand Division.
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
190 years ago today - Aug 12, 1831
[Revelations]
McIlwaine's Bend, Missouri River. Doctrine and Covenants 61. ... On August 9, Joseph and ten elders leave Independence Landing for Kirtland. They travel fourteen miles by canoe to Fort Osage the first day.
W. W. Phelps vision of the destroyer on the waters/Nothing very important occurred till the third day, when many of the dangers so common upon the western waters, manifested themselves; and after we had encamped upon the bank of the river, at McIlwaine's Bend, brother Phelps, in open vision, by daylight, saw the destroyer in his most horrible power, ride upon the face of the waters. Others heard the noise, but saw not the vision. ...
The next morning after prayer, Joseph receives this revelation.
[Kenney, Scott; Saints Without Halos, 'Doctrine and Covenants,' http://web.archive.org/web/20120805163534/saintswithouthalos.com/s/_dc.phtml]
McIlwaine's Bend, Missouri River. Doctrine and Covenants 61. ... On August 9, Joseph and ten elders leave Independence Landing for Kirtland. They travel fourteen miles by canoe to Fort Osage the first day.
W. W. Phelps vision of the destroyer on the waters/Nothing very important occurred till the third day, when many of the dangers so common upon the western waters, manifested themselves; and after we had encamped upon the bank of the river, at McIlwaine's Bend, brother Phelps, in open vision, by daylight, saw the destroyer in his most horrible power, ride upon the face of the waters. Others heard the noise, but saw not the vision. ...
The next morning after prayer, Joseph receives this revelation.
[Kenney, Scott; Saints Without Halos, 'Doctrine and Covenants,' http://web.archive.org/web/20120805163534/saintswithouthalos.com/s/_dc.phtml]
190 years ago today - Aug 12, 1831
[D&C 61]Commandment given Aug 12th. 1831 on the Bank of the River Distruction (or Missorie) unfolding some mysteries &c &c Behold & hearken unto [DEL:him] the voice of him who hath all power ... Behold there are many dangers upon the waters & more especially hereafter for I the Lord have decreed in mine anger many distructions upon the waters yea & especially upon these waters ... I would not suffer that ye should part untill [DEL:ye] you are chastened for all your sins that you might be one that you might not perish in wickedness ... I the Lord in the begining belessed the waters but in the last days by the mouth of my servent John I cursed the waters wherefore the days will come that no flesh shall be safe upon the waters & it shall be said in days to come that none is able to go up to the land of Zion upon the waters but he that is upright in heart & as I the Lord in the begining cursed the land even so in the last days have I blessed it in its time for the use of my saints that they may partake the fatness thereof & now I give unto you a commandment & what I say unto one I say unto all that you shall forewarn your brethren concerning these waters that they come not in Journeying [DEL:on] upon them lest their faith fail & they are caught in her snares I the Lord hath decreed & the destroyer rideth upon the face thereof & I revoke not the decree I the Lord was angery with you yesterday but to day mine anger is turned away ... & now concerning my servents Sidney [Rigdon] Joseph & Oliver [Cowdery] let them come not again upon the waters save it be upon the canal ... unto whom it is given power to command the waters unto him it is given by the spirit to know all his ways ... be sober looking forth for the coming of the Son of man in an hour you think not pray always that you enter not into temptation that you may abide the day of his coming whether in life or in death even So Amen
[Book of Commandments and Revelations (Revelation Book 1) http://bit.ly/manuscript-revelations]
[Book of Commandments and Revelations (Revelation Book 1) http://bit.ly/manuscript-revelations]
40 years ago today - Aug 11, 1981-Tuesday
[Leonard Arrington]
... While the Mormon Heritage Series had good support from Elder [Alvin R.] Dyer and Elder [Joseph] Anderson we became aware in 1978 that it did not have full support from all members of the Twelve [Apostles]; specifically two members of the Twelve had reservation about the series: Elder [Mark E.] Petersen and Elder [Boyd K.] Packer. [Arrington describes this series: "Early volumes projected in this series were: letters of Brigham Young to his sons to be edited by Dean Jessee; letters of Brigham Young to Indian Chiefs to be edited by Dean Jessee; the holograph [handwritten] writings of Joseph Smith to be edited by Dean Jessee; the sermons of Heber C. Kimball to be edited by Stan Kimball; documents relating to the spread of the gospel overseas to be edited by Spencer Palmer].
Both had their confidence in our judgment marred by our leaving in the Brigham Young letters to his sons volume a reference in which Brigham tells his son Brigham Young, Jr., while on a mission in England that he ought to give serious consideration to giving up his use of tobacco while he was a missionary. There may have been other little things in the volume they did not like. [O]f course our own thinking was you do not build confidence in the integrity of your book if you leave out all of the passages that reflect any problems. We did have excellent reviews on the book and we felt, and continue to feel, very proud of it. We have no second thoughts about how it was handled.
But because of this observation Deseret Book, under the influence of their cautious president Marvin Ashton, have been less enthusiastic about the series than they were in the early 1970s. The result is the heavy editing of some of our things and the name "Mormon Heritage Series" has been removed from some of these books. Examples of the heavy editing are the Spencer Palmer book on The Expanding Church which was cut by about 1/3; the women book by Godfrey and Derr which was cut by about 1/3, the Dean Jessee volume of Joseph Smith holographs which apparently will be run as two volumes published in separate years. ...
[Confessions of a Mormon historian : the diaries of Leonard J. Arrington, 1971-1997, Gary James Bergera, editor, Signature Books, 2018]
... While the Mormon Heritage Series had good support from Elder [Alvin R.] Dyer and Elder [Joseph] Anderson we became aware in 1978 that it did not have full support from all members of the Twelve [Apostles]; specifically two members of the Twelve had reservation about the series: Elder [Mark E.] Petersen and Elder [Boyd K.] Packer. [Arrington describes this series: "Early volumes projected in this series were: letters of Brigham Young to his sons to be edited by Dean Jessee; letters of Brigham Young to Indian Chiefs to be edited by Dean Jessee; the holograph [handwritten] writings of Joseph Smith to be edited by Dean Jessee; the sermons of Heber C. Kimball to be edited by Stan Kimball; documents relating to the spread of the gospel overseas to be edited by Spencer Palmer].
Both had their confidence in our judgment marred by our leaving in the Brigham Young letters to his sons volume a reference in which Brigham tells his son Brigham Young, Jr., while on a mission in England that he ought to give serious consideration to giving up his use of tobacco while he was a missionary. There may have been other little things in the volume they did not like. [O]f course our own thinking was you do not build confidence in the integrity of your book if you leave out all of the passages that reflect any problems. We did have excellent reviews on the book and we felt, and continue to feel, very proud of it. We have no second thoughts about how it was handled.
But because of this observation Deseret Book, under the influence of their cautious president Marvin Ashton, have been less enthusiastic about the series than they were in the early 1970s. The result is the heavy editing of some of our things and the name "Mormon Heritage Series" has been removed from some of these books. Examples of the heavy editing are the Spencer Palmer book on The Expanding Church which was cut by about 1/3; the women book by Godfrey and Derr which was cut by about 1/3, the Dean Jessee volume of Joseph Smith holographs which apparently will be run as two volumes published in separate years. ...
[Confessions of a Mormon historian : the diaries of Leonard J. Arrington, 1971-1997, Gary James Bergera, editor, Signature Books, 2018]
50 years ago today - Aug 11, 1971
Two well-known business consulting firms (Cresap, McCormick and Paget, Inc. And Safeway Stores, Inc.) submitted their reports to the General Authorities after a five-month in-depth study of the internal operations of the Church. The Cresap report pointed to the obvious problem that the General Authorities had become too heavily burdened with administrative responsibilities and recommended that most of these functions could be turned over to full time managing directors. By doing this the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve would be freed to attend to their roles as spiritual leaders and policy makers. This recommendation was up approved. Upon the recommendation of these two consulting firms, the Church created two new departments: External Communications (later changed to Public Communications and then to Public Affairs), for matters related to public relations; and Internal Communications, to solve the problems of getting materials to Church units in a timely fashion. The directors of these two departments reported directly to members of the Quorum of the Twelve.
[Correlation Timeline, Compiled by Lisle Brown]
[Correlation Timeline, Compiled by Lisle Brown]
120 years ago today - Aug 11, 1901
Of the men attending a stake priesthood meeting, one-third admit they do not observe the Word of Wisdom.
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
175 years ago today - Tuesday, Aug 11, 1846.
Heard a good report from Brother Pratt concerning the Battalion and Colonel Allen. Said it was reported in Missouri that President Polk had issued his proclamation that the Mormons had better not be in haste in going to California, that they should be protected and paid for all their losses in Missouri and Iowa....
In the council, President Young referred to a man who had passed $15 bogus below the settlement and gone on west in Miller's company; that he had sent for him to return immediately and pay the man, satisfy him for his trouble, repent and make satisfaction to the Church, or he should pay fourfold if [it] took the last farthing he possessed, and be cast out from among us, and that is the law to Israel, and you may write it.
[Apostle Willard Richards Journal]
In the council, President Young referred to a man who had passed $15 bogus below the settlement and gone on west in Miller's company; that he had sent for him to return immediately and pay the man, satisfy him for his trouble, repent and make satisfaction to the Church, or he should pay fourfold if [it] took the last farthing he possessed, and be cast out from among us, and that is the law to Israel, and you may write it.
[Apostle Willard Richards Journal]
180 years ago today - Aug 11, 1841
[Nauvoo Temple]
William Weeks turned over the carving of the oxen to Elijah Fordham, who spent the next eight weeks carving the twelve animals. Others may have also helped with carving. John Carling is also mentioned as a carver of the font's wooden oxen.
[Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple]
William Weeks turned over the carving of the oxen to Elijah Fordham, who spent the next eight weeks carving the twelve animals. Others may have also helped with carving. John Carling is also mentioned as a carver of the font's wooden oxen.
[Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple]
185 years ago today - Aug 11, 1836
The Rev. Truman Coe writes a description of Mormonism in the Ohio Observer, including the statement that "they believe that the true God is a material being, composed of body and parts; and that when the Creator formed Adam in his own image, he made him about the size and shape of God himself." This is one of the earliest recorded statements concerning the Mormon belief on this doctrine.
[Brigham Young University Studies (various issues), Sp '77, 354; Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Brigham Young University Studies (various issues), Sp '77, 354; Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
190 years ago today - Aug 11, 1831 (Thursday)
The returning Elders reached McIlwair's Bend (of the Missouri river) where Wm. W. Phelps "saw in open vision, by daylight, the Destroyer in his most horrible power ride upon the face of the water; others heard the noise, but saw not the vision."
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
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