Undoubtedly, Kimball's opposition was behind Benson's non-acceptance of the U.S. presidential nomination from the Concerned Citizens Party in 1976. Involving former members of the American Party (which Benson had publicly endorsed) and LDS members of the Birch Society, the "Concerned Citizens party will be dedicated to individual rights under the Constitution," and proposed to bring God "back into government."
["Party Qualifies For Utah Ballot," Salt Lake Tribune, 6 Mar. 1976, B-5; "LDS Official Says 'No' to Politics," Salt Lake Tribune, 25 Mar. 1976, B-4, and "Party Clarifies Stand on Benson Selection," Salt Lake Tribune, 29 Mar 1976, 38. From D. Michael Quinn, Ezra Taft Benson and Mormon Political Conflicts, Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought 26:2 (Summer 1992), also in Quinn, The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power Salt Lake City (Signature Books, 1994), Chapter 3.]
60 years ago today - Mar 6, 1966
BYU Religion professor Rodney Turner, in a speech during a six-stake fireside, quotes a poem: "Women are doormats and have been / The years those mats applaud,- / They keep their men from going in / With muddy feet to God.'" then comments, "I am afraid that is only too true, A man needs that kind of support so that he can go back home without muddy feet. A help meet to God, fulfilling the procreative power that you have; a sustainer of your husband; a homemaker; a rearer of children; and a husband-prodder-these are just a few things you can begin with." The speech, "Woman and the Priesthood" is published as a pamphlet by BYU.
130 years ago today - Mar 6, 1896
President Wilford Woodruff asks Apostle Brigham Young Jr., "Woodruff asked me, "what is your opinion about bro[ther] B. H.] Roberts?" Young answers, "He has passed beyond our help the Lord must handle him." Young writes later, "I found the Presidency felt about the same way." Roberts had been temporarily dropped from the First Quorum of Seventy and suspended from exercising his priesthood and given three weeks to agree to sign the Political Manifesto which states that all church leaders must get permission from above before seeking political office.
140 years ago today - Mar 6, 1886
2,000 LDS women gather at the Capitol Theater in Salt Lake City to address the reports that they were violating Christian marriage principles. Among other speakers, Ellis Shipp of Salt Lake City, a physician and the first of Milford Shipp's four wives, explains: "True we practice plural marriage, not, however, because we are compelled to, but because we are convinced that it is a divine revelation, and we find in this principle satisfaction, contentment, and more happiness than we could obtain in any other relationship"
145 years ago today - Mar 6, 1881
{William H. and Edmund L. Kelley visited Palmyra and Manchester, New York, and interviewed Thomas H. Taylor, William and Mary Bryant, Danford Booth, Ezra Pierce, Orin Reed, Orlando Saunders, Abel Chase, John H. Gilbert, and Hiram Jackway. They also interviewed John Stafford in Rochester. Notes of these interviews were written in pencil in a small notebook, apparently in the handwriting of William Kelley.}
... Ezra Peirce. Says Joes[eph] [Smith] did not know any thing more about Hyglyerics [hieroglyphics][.] Lyman Cowdry was a Lawyer. O[liver]. Cowd[r]y [was a] School Teacher. Characters good. ["]I know that Joe Smith was ignorant." Has pulled sticks with Joes[eph] for a gallon of Brandy but never knew [him] to get drunk. ... Orlando Saunders. Say 78 year old in April[.] Smiths worked for him and they were good fellows to work[.] Hyram and the old man were coopers[.] very good people. Every bod[y] drank in those days and the Smith[s] drank also. but they never got drunk. They were the best family in the neighborhood in case of sickness. One was at my house nearly all the time when my father died. Martin Haris was [remainder of sentence written sideways on page] one of the first ones of the Town.
Able D. Chase. 67 years old. Old man Smith was a cooper[.] Alvin was the oldest [-] 6 boy[s] 2 girls--&c Alvin[,] Hyr[am]--Josep[h][,] [Samuel] Harrison[,] Wm & Carlos. Every one drank. I was young and dont remember only general character--poorly educated[,] ignorant and selfish--super=sticious Shif[t]less but do a good days work.... Jo[sep]h [Smith] got a [singular] looking stone which was dug up out of my fathers well[.] A sister that [had] a stone she could see in, but it was not the one that Smith had ...
Lorenzo Saunders says [Sidney] Rigdon was in the neighborhood befor[e] B[ook] of M[ormon] was published 18 months[.] Lorenzo Saunders lives in New Adrian[,] Mich. James T. Cob[b] of Salt Lake writes <<Corresponds>> with Colonel Gilbert He knew Lyman and Oliver [Cowdery][.] Lyman was a petifogger[.] Oliver was a school teacher--[Martin] Harris was a very honest farmer but very supersticious--He saw the Book with his spiritual eyes. 79 years of age.
Hyram Jackway 65-6 [year old][.] Saw Joe and his Father Drunk in a hay field[.] Knows nothing about them stealing. Stafford was a Sailor. Wm S=tafford He was the one that furnished the Black Sheep. [-] Smiths translated in the farm hous[e]. Maj Gilbert said they translated in a cave Hyrum and his Father owed Mr. Jaynes 150$ Martin Harris was an honest man[.]...
He [Joseph Smith] was a real clever jovial boy--What [Pomeroy] Tucker said about them was false absolutely--My father was never connected with them in any way--Smiths with others were hunting for money previous to obtaining plates[.] My father Wm S[tafford]. had stone which some thought they could look through--and Old Mrs. S[mith]. came there for it but never go it.--76 years old--... I lived a mile from them. My father is said to have furnished a sheep--but I dont think my father was there at [the] time they say [the] sheep was sacrificed-- Cousin Christopher Stafford [of] Aburn[,] Geauga Co. Ohio, Oliver Cowdry Taught school in house 3 1/2 miles from Palmyry--Cowdry good Character. [Martin] Harris not very religious before B[ook] of M[ormon]--was an Honorable farmer. Dont know whether he was skeptic=al or visionary--old Joe claimed he understood Geology and could tell all kinds of minerals--& they fixed up a dose for him. Joe was quite illit[erate]--until after they
began to have school at their house--and they had school at at their house. ... Saw them dig 3 or 4 years before B[ook of Mormon] was found--Joe not there--The neighbors use to Claim Sally Chase Could look through stone she had & find money--Willard Chase use to dig when she found where the money was[.] Peaceable among themselves--<<old woman>> Had a great deal [of] faith [that] their Child[ren]. was going to do something great. ...
[William Kelley, Notebook, No. 5, 1-16, William H. Kelley Papers, RLDS Church Library-Archives, Independence, Missouri., as cited in Dan Vogel, Early Mormon Documents: Kelley Notes]
... Ezra Peirce. Says Joes[eph] [Smith] did not know any thing more about Hyglyerics [hieroglyphics][.] Lyman Cowdry was a Lawyer. O[liver]. Cowd[r]y [was a] School Teacher. Characters good. ["]I know that Joe Smith was ignorant." Has pulled sticks with Joes[eph] for a gallon of Brandy but never knew [him] to get drunk. ... Orlando Saunders. Say 78 year old in April[.] Smiths worked for him and they were good fellows to work[.] Hyram and the old man were coopers[.] very good people. Every bod[y] drank in those days and the Smith[s] drank also. but they never got drunk. They were the best family in the neighborhood in case of sickness. One was at my house nearly all the time when my father died. Martin Haris was [remainder of sentence written sideways on page] one of the first ones of the Town.
Able D. Chase. 67 years old. Old man Smith was a cooper[.] Alvin was the oldest [-] 6 boy[s] 2 girls--&c Alvin[,] Hyr[am]--Josep[h][,] [Samuel] Harrison[,] Wm & Carlos. Every one drank. I was young and dont remember only general character--poorly educated[,] ignorant and selfish--super=sticious Shif[t]less but do a good days work.... Jo[sep]h [Smith] got a [singular] looking stone which was dug up out of my fathers well[.] A sister that [had] a stone she could see in, but it was not the one that Smith had ...
Lorenzo Saunders says [Sidney] Rigdon was in the neighborhood befor[e] B[ook] of M[ormon] was published 18 months[.] Lorenzo Saunders lives in New Adrian[,] Mich. James T. Cob[b] of Salt Lake writes <<Corresponds>> with Colonel Gilbert He knew Lyman and Oliver [Cowdery][.] Lyman was a petifogger[.] Oliver was a school teacher--[Martin] Harris was a very honest farmer but very supersticious--He saw the Book with his spiritual eyes. 79 years of age.
Hyram Jackway 65-6 [year old][.] Saw Joe and his Father Drunk in a hay field[.] Knows nothing about them stealing. Stafford was a Sailor. Wm S=tafford He was the one that furnished the Black Sheep. [-] Smiths translated in the farm hous[e]. Maj Gilbert said they translated in a cave Hyrum and his Father owed Mr. Jaynes 150$ Martin Harris was an honest man[.]...
He [Joseph Smith] was a real clever jovial boy--What [Pomeroy] Tucker said about them was false absolutely--My father was never connected with them in any way--Smiths with others were hunting for money previous to obtaining plates[.] My father Wm S[tafford]. had stone which some thought they could look through--and Old Mrs. S[mith]. came there for it but never go it.--76 years old--... I lived a mile from them. My father is said to have furnished a sheep--but I dont think my father was there at [the] time they say [the] sheep was sacrificed-- Cousin Christopher Stafford [of] Aburn[,] Geauga Co. Ohio, Oliver Cowdry Taught school in house 3 1/2 miles from Palmyry--Cowdry good Character. [Martin] Harris not very religious before B[ook] of M[ormon]--was an Honorable farmer. Dont know whether he was skeptic=al or visionary--old Joe claimed he understood Geology and could tell all kinds of minerals--& they fixed up a dose for him. Joe was quite illit[erate]--until after they
began to have school at their house--and they had school at at their house. ... Saw them dig 3 or 4 years before B[ook of Mormon] was found--Joe not there--The neighbors use to Claim Sally Chase Could look through stone she had & find money--Willard Chase use to dig when she found where the money was[.] Peaceable among themselves--<<old woman>> Had a great deal [of] faith [that] their Child[ren]. was going to do something great. ...
[William Kelley, Notebook, No. 5, 1-16, William H. Kelley Papers, RLDS Church Library-Archives, Independence, Missouri., as cited in Dan Vogel, Early Mormon Documents: Kelley Notes]
185 years ago today - March 1841 (about 6 March)
Section 125 instructed the Saints to build up opposite Nauvoo a city to be named Zarahemla. In addition, the town of Nashville was to be built up.
[Cook, Lyndon, Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]
[Cook, Lyndon, Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]
190 years ago today - Mar 6, 1836
Joseph Smith goes to Hebrew teacher Joshua Seixas for private instruction. The next two days the "first class" (of which Joseph is a member) translates, from the Hebrew, chapters 17 and 22 of Genesis, both of which deal with Abraham.
195 years ago today - March 6 or 7, 1831
[Revelations]
Kirtland, Ohio. Doctrine and Covenants 45. The Son reminds the Father of his blood and suffering. Believers become his sons, perform miracles. Reasons with followers. City of Enoch. Jews to gather to Jerusalem. Fulness of gospel revealed at beginning of the times of the Gentiles. Scourge and desolation at end of times of the Gentiles. Signs of second coming. Resurrection followed by destruction , conversion of the Jews, who weep for persecuting their king. Satan bound , Jesus' return. Wicked will be cast into the fire, righteous receive earthly reward. Joseph to translate the New Testament. Wars begin soon in America. Gather out of the east. Collect funds to purchase inheritance. New Jerusalem a land of peace, safety.
Manuscripts in the Church Archives, one in the hand of Edward Partridge and another in the hand of William E. McLellin, date the revelation March 6, 1831.
[Kenney, Scott; Saints Without Halos, 'Doctrine and Covenants,' http://web.archive.org/web/20120805163534/saintswithouthalos.com/s/_dc.phtml]
Kirtland, Ohio. Doctrine and Covenants 45. The Son reminds the Father of his blood and suffering. Believers become his sons, perform miracles. Reasons with followers. City of Enoch. Jews to gather to Jerusalem. Fulness of gospel revealed at beginning of the times of the Gentiles. Scourge and desolation at end of times of the Gentiles. Signs of second coming. Resurrection followed by destruction , conversion of the Jews, who weep for persecuting their king. Satan bound , Jesus' return. Wicked will be cast into the fire, righteous receive earthly reward. Joseph to translate the New Testament. Wars begin soon in America. Gather out of the east. Collect funds to purchase inheritance. New Jerusalem a land of peace, safety.
Manuscripts in the Church Archives, one in the hand of Edward Partridge and another in the hand of William E. McLellin, date the revelation March 6, 1831.
[Kenney, Scott; Saints Without Halos, 'Doctrine and Covenants,' http://web.archive.org/web/20120805163534/saintswithouthalos.com/s/_dc.phtml]
30 years ago today - Mar 5, 1996
Former British prime minister Margaret Thatcher accepts an honorary doctorate at Brigham Young University.
[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)]]
105 years ago today - Mar 5, 1921
[Heber J. Grant]
Bishop Nibley remarked that he expected me to appoint my cousin Anthony W. Ivins as my counselor, that there was no doubt in his mind that people generally would expect it, as he considered Bro. Ivins the best informed and wisest man among the Apostles and that he would be the greatest help to me as a counselor. I incidentally remarked that the Presidency would be strictly Democratic, and he said, yes, but thought that would make no difference at all in my choosing my cousin as my counselor. Personally there is no man living who would please me more to have as a counselor than my own relative. However I desire to choose whoever the Lord wishes me to and certainly do not want to make a choice because of any personal preference.
[The Diaries of Heber J. Grant, 1880-1945, Abridged, Digital Edition Salt Lake City, Utah, 2015]
Bishop Nibley remarked that he expected me to appoint my cousin Anthony W. Ivins as my counselor, that there was no doubt in his mind that people generally would expect it, as he considered Bro. Ivins the best informed and wisest man among the Apostles and that he would be the greatest help to me as a counselor. I incidentally remarked that the Presidency would be strictly Democratic, and he said, yes, but thought that would make no difference at all in my choosing my cousin as my counselor. Personally there is no man living who would please me more to have as a counselor than my own relative. However I desire to choose whoever the Lord wishes me to and certainly do not want to make a choice because of any personal preference.
[The Diaries of Heber J. Grant, 1880-1945, Abridged, Digital Edition Salt Lake City, Utah, 2015]
125 years ago today - Mar 5, 1901
[David H. Cannon] gave instructions in regard to Adam offering signs at the altar. Adam does not offer signs at the altar in the Telestial Room. He did not want any innovations in the endowments. Spoke of Pres[iden]t [Brigham] Young coming to him in vision and giving him important information in relation to his duty; visiting him three times in one night.
[Temple Minute Book, St. George, Mar. 5, 1901, typed excerpts in Buerger Papers, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
[Temple Minute Book, St. George, Mar. 5, 1901, typed excerpts in Buerger Papers, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
130 years ago today - Mar 5, 1896
[J. Golden Kimball]
At 10 AM agreeable with appointment met with the Presidency of the Church, Quorum of Apostles, and 1st Council of Seventies at the Temple in the large room occupied by Twelve Apostles. ... The object of the meeting being to consider Elder B. H. Roberts case. ... They agreed that they concurred with the apostles in not sustaining Elder Roberts unless he would humble himself and seek Council from the Pres[idency] of the Church ... Pres[idents]. Jos[eph]. F. Smith, Geo[rge]. Q. Cannon and Pres[ident] Willfo[r]d Woodruff spoke plainly upon the sustaining of the priesthood, and also regarding the position Bro[ther]. Roberts had taken in political matters viz. sep[a]ration of Church and State and Woman Suffrage. Elder Roberts then spoke explaining why he had taken such a course. Justified himself in accepting a nomination from the Democratic party without consulting with the Authorities. Presumed from conversations had with the bretheren that he had their permission, but in accepting a
position in the Herald as Editor without their consent he believed he was wrong. He stated in answer to a question put to him by Pres[ident] Geo[rge] Q. Cannon that he considered it improper to ask council regarding political matters from men who were Republicans, and that it was ill becoming to an American citizen. ... The instance was called to his attention regarding the time he rebelled against the issuance of the Manifesto, You were wrong then, could it not be possible that you were wrong again. He manifested no change, notwithstanding the labors of all the brethren for 8 hours the first meeting and six hours at this meeting; There seemed to be no willingness to follow council. His mind was darkened and he desired the matter to be settled at once. Apostle [Brigham] Young [Jr.], after some talk from the brethren, motion[ed] that Brother Roberts be dropped from the Council of the Seventies, as one of its seven presidents, and be suspended from all action in the functions of the
Priesthood. This meant that even if he repented at some future time he loses his place as one of the 1st council of the Seventies. The Brethren felt reluctant in crowding the matter and Apostle [Heber J.] Grant moved that three weeks from date of this meeting be given Bro[ther] Roberts before action be taken on Apostle Youngs motion. If at the expiration of that time Bro[ther] Roberts could not humble himself before the Quorum above mentioned action was to be taken agreeable with the resolution. It was a most solemn occasion and one that I will never forget...
[J. Golden Kimball, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
At 10 AM agreeable with appointment met with the Presidency of the Church, Quorum of Apostles, and 1st Council of Seventies at the Temple in the large room occupied by Twelve Apostles. ... The object of the meeting being to consider Elder B. H. Roberts case. ... They agreed that they concurred with the apostles in not sustaining Elder Roberts unless he would humble himself and seek Council from the Pres[idency] of the Church ... Pres[idents]. Jos[eph]. F. Smith, Geo[rge]. Q. Cannon and Pres[ident] Willfo[r]d Woodruff spoke plainly upon the sustaining of the priesthood, and also regarding the position Bro[ther]. Roberts had taken in political matters viz. sep[a]ration of Church and State and Woman Suffrage. Elder Roberts then spoke explaining why he had taken such a course. Justified himself in accepting a nomination from the Democratic party without consulting with the Authorities. Presumed from conversations had with the bretheren that he had their permission, but in accepting a
position in the Herald as Editor without their consent he believed he was wrong. He stated in answer to a question put to him by Pres[ident] Geo[rge] Q. Cannon that he considered it improper to ask council regarding political matters from men who were Republicans, and that it was ill becoming to an American citizen. ... The instance was called to his attention regarding the time he rebelled against the issuance of the Manifesto, You were wrong then, could it not be possible that you were wrong again. He manifested no change, notwithstanding the labors of all the brethren for 8 hours the first meeting and six hours at this meeting; There seemed to be no willingness to follow council. His mind was darkened and he desired the matter to be settled at once. Apostle [Brigham] Young [Jr.], after some talk from the brethren, motion[ed] that Brother Roberts be dropped from the Council of the Seventies, as one of its seven presidents, and be suspended from all action in the functions of the
Priesthood. This meant that even if he repented at some future time he loses his place as one of the 1st council of the Seventies. The Brethren felt reluctant in crowding the matter and Apostle [Heber J.] Grant moved that three weeks from date of this meeting be given Bro[ther] Roberts before action be taken on Apostle Youngs motion. If at the expiration of that time Bro[ther] Roberts could not humble himself before the Quorum above mentioned action was to be taken agreeable with the resolution. It was a most solemn occasion and one that I will never forget...
[J. Golden Kimball, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
140 years ago today - Mar 5, 1886
Joseph Smith III, president of the RLDS church writes: "You know that while I believe father was not the author of Utah polygamy I have not and am not now making the battle against the Utah church on that ground but upon the ground that plural marriage is not of God no matter whoever the revelation, so called, came through or who taught or practiced it."
145 years ago today - Mar 5, 1881
[Wilford Woodruff]
March 5, 1881 This was an important day with me in several respects. I had invited 50 of my Brethren the leading men of this part of the vineyard to meet me in the Temple of the Lord to give them some instruction and to meet them in the Prayer Circle. But my sickness Pain & distress was so severe I was not able to attend although I got ready to go into the Prayer room. A Pain struck me through the Stomach as though a Dart was shot through me and I was in great distress untill the Prayer was Ended. The revelation that was given me in the wilderness was read and they washed their feet & bore Testimony unto God against those men who had Shed the Blood of the Prophets and Apostles and had persecuted the saints. They then went Before the Lord and offered up Prayers from the Altar upon this subject And the Devil seemed Determined that I should have no hand in it and I was kept in great pain untill the servises were over. I was administered to by the Brethren, and Br James Bleak
administered to me the Medicine.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
March 5, 1881 This was an important day with me in several respects. I had invited 50 of my Brethren the leading men of this part of the vineyard to meet me in the Temple of the Lord to give them some instruction and to meet them in the Prayer Circle. But my sickness Pain & distress was so severe I was not able to attend although I got ready to go into the Prayer room. A Pain struck me through the Stomach as though a Dart was shot through me and I was in great distress untill the Prayer was Ended. The revelation that was given me in the wilderness was read and they washed their feet & bore Testimony unto God against those men who had Shed the Blood of the Prophets and Apostles and had persecuted the saints. They then went Before the Lord and offered up Prayers from the Altar upon this subject And the Devil seemed Determined that I should have no hand in it and I was kept in great pain untill the servises were over. I was administered to by the Brethren, and Br James Bleak
administered to me the Medicine.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
145 years ago today - Mar 5, 1881
[J.D.T. McAllister]
Bore testimony against wicked at Temple Sat.
At the Temple. Prayer circle. a Meeting of the Priesthood we went forth and washed our feet and bore testimony against the wicked, who have shed the blood of the Prophets and Saints. And those of the present day who desire to make war on the Saints.
[Diary Excerpts of J.D.T. McAllister, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
Bore testimony against wicked at Temple Sat.
At the Temple. Prayer circle. a Meeting of the Priesthood we went forth and washed our feet and bore testimony against the wicked, who have shed the blood of the Prophets and Saints. And those of the present day who desire to make war on the Saints.
[Diary Excerpts of J.D.T. McAllister, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
135 years ago today - Mar 4, 1891
[Franklin D. Richards]
B[isho]p Tho[ma]s Wallace called spent some 3 hours with us considering politics & the wisest means of presenting the same to the people for their education and enlightenment so that the younger inexperienced may understand & wisely choose which of the national parties to join affinity with I felt blest in enjoining moderation & respect for each others views. Great danger that contention will drive the Holy Spirit from the bosoms of the Elders who indulge in it.
[Diary Excerpts of Franklin D. Richards, 1887-1897, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
B[isho]p Tho[ma]s Wallace called spent some 3 hours with us considering politics & the wisest means of presenting the same to the people for their education and enlightenment so that the younger inexperienced may understand & wisely choose which of the national parties to join affinity with I felt blest in enjoining moderation & respect for each others views. Great danger that contention will drive the Holy Spirit from the bosoms of the Elders who indulge in it.
[Diary Excerpts of Franklin D. Richards, 1887-1897, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
140 years ago today - Mar 4, 1886
President John Taylor, living underground to avoid prosecution for polygamy, answers a request from a member: "Your letter asking the priviledge of 2nd anointing for your parents John Perry and Grace Williams Perry who are deceased, has been received. You are at liberty to have them officiated for and receive their 2nd Anointings; but those who officiate for them must be those who have already had that sacred ordinance. By presenting this to Bro. M. W. Merrill he will have the Ordinance attended to. Very respectfully, John Taylor"
[John Taylor to Eliza Perry Benson, Mar. 4, 1886]
[John Taylor to Eliza Perry Benson, Mar. 4, 1886]
145 years ago today - Mar 4, 1881
President Arthur A. Garfield in his inaugural address says, "The Mormon Church not only offends the moral sense of manhood by sanctioning polygamy, but prevents the administration of justice through ordinary instrumentalities of law" After Garfield's assassination, his successor, Chester A. Arthur, proclaims polygamy "this odious crime, so revolting to the moral and religious sense of Christendom."
165 years ago today - Mar 4, 1861
The President [Brigham Young] remarked that Joseph Smith Jun. had predicted 20 years ago that 70 years from that time not one stone would remain on another in the City of New York.
[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]
175 years ago today - Mar 4, 1851 (Tuesday)
The ship Olympus sailed from Liverpool, England, with 245 Saints, bound for Utah, under the direction of Wm. Howell. Some fifty non-Mormon passengers were converted and baptized on the voyage to New Orleans, where the company arrived about April 27th.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
25 years ago today - Mar 3, 2001
Church issued guidelines for the proper use of the church's name in media. The Church's should be referred to by its full name, and the use of "Mormon Church" was discouraged.
[Correlation Timeline, Compiled by Lisle Brown]
[Correlation Timeline, Compiled by Lisle Brown]
55 years ago today - Mar 3, 1971
The demolition begins of the old tabernacle at Coalville, Utah, formerly on the national register. Mormons and non-Mormons (primarily non-residents of Coalville) waged a court battle and petitioned the First Presidency not to destroy this meeting house now regarded as obsolete by church authorities. The First Presidency publishes a statement in defense of the demolition, which attracts enough attention to merit a feature story in the New York Times.
[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)]]
60 years ago today - Mar 3, 1966
Apostle Benson notified the Twelve's president that President McKay had approved the apostle's acceptance of all invitations to speak at testimonials for the Birch Society's president, Robert Welch. "I feel no compunction to make the Church popular with liberals, socialists, or communists. I do feel responsible to tell the truth," Benson wrote. Of the fact that Mormons were joining the Birch Society and Birchers were becoming Mormons, he added: "and those who love the truth will embrace it without compromise and that is exactly what is happening."
[Ezra Taft Benson to Joseph Fielding Smith, 3 Mar. 1966, MS 4940, LDS archives. From D. Michael Quinn, Ezra Taft Benson and Mormon Political Conflicts, Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought 26:2 (Summer 1992), also in Quinn, The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power Salt Lake City (Signature Books, 1994), Chapter 3.]
[Ezra Taft Benson to Joseph Fielding Smith, 3 Mar. 1966, MS 4940, LDS archives. From D. Michael Quinn, Ezra Taft Benson and Mormon Political Conflicts, Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought 26:2 (Summer 1992), also in Quinn, The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power Salt Lake City (Signature Books, 1994), Chapter 3.]
60 years ago today - Mar 3, 1966
The entire First Presidency decided that "Elder Benson to be told not to mention Birch Society."
["Copy of First Presidency minutes digest 3-3-66," in "Hugh B. Brown's File on the John Birch Society." From D. Michael Quinn, Ezra Taft Benson and Mormon Political Conflicts, Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought 26:2 (Summer 1992), also in Quinn, The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power Salt Lake City (Signature Books, 1994), Chapter 3.]
["Copy of First Presidency minutes digest 3-3-66," in "Hugh B. Brown's File on the John Birch Society." From D. Michael Quinn, Ezra Taft Benson and Mormon Political Conflicts, Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought 26:2 (Summer 1992), also in Quinn, The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power Salt Lake City (Signature Books, 1994), Chapter 3.]
65 years ago today - Mar 3, 1961
BYU paper DAILY UNIVERSE article, "Archaeologists Explore Probable City Bountiful," claims that BYU expeditions into Central America from 1947 to 1956 have "discovered important evidence bearing on the location of the Book of Mormon city of Bountiful in the Xicalango jungle of western Campeche [as well as] the location of the major Book of Mormon city of Zarahemla in the middle Usumacinta valley"
125 years ago today - Mar 3,1901
Lorenzo Snow promises Salt Lake temple workers that "some of us would go back to Jackson County, Missouri."
[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 - Mar 3, 1861
[Brigham Young]
If Christ was to Come now to reign you would not like his dictation as well as you do mine for I am more like you than He is and he would be more strict in his dealings & dictation with you than I am. ... speaking of our government He said Our Nation will not Have a general war all at one & then be settled in a year or two but the spirit of war, madness & disunion will increase for a number of years. They will Commence to fight little by little & keep increase until they will have a general mash up & destruction throughout the Land.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
If Christ was to Come now to reign you would not like his dictation as well as you do mine for I am more like you than He is and he would be more strict in his dealings & dictation with you than I am. ... speaking of our government He said Our Nation will not Have a general war all at one & then be settled in a year or two but the spirit of war, madness & disunion will increase for a number of years. They will Commence to fight little by little & keep increase until they will have a general mash up & destruction throughout the Land.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
170 years ago today - Mar 3, 1856
[Wilford Woodruff]
Received a mission from President Young to day to prepare and go East in the spring to get the Deseret Alphabet type made & sore [some] books printed in it.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
Received a mission from President Young to day to prepare and go East in the spring to get the Deseret Alphabet type made & sore [some] books printed in it.
[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 - Mar 3, 1836
Joseph Smith authorizes the ordination of African-American Elijah Abel to the office of elder. On Dec. 20 Abel is ordained to the office of Seventy. A skilled carpenter, Abel worked on the Salt Lake Temple but was never allowed to receive his endowments or have his family sealed together because of his race.
195 years ago today - Mar 3, 1831
Smith again writes Hyrum, warning him that creditors again pursuing Smith Sr. for unpaid debts. "Come to Fayette, bring father, do not go through Buffalo for they lie in wait for you."
[Natural Born Seer, Richard Van Wagoner p. 459, Chronology of Mormon History, http://followtheprophets.com/chronology-of-mormon-history/]
[Natural Born Seer, Richard Van Wagoner p. 459, Chronology of Mormon History, http://followtheprophets.com/chronology-of-mormon-history/]
55 years ago today - Mar 2, 1971
A First Presidency letter asking "ALL GENERAL AUTHORITIES" to stop "utilizing Church employees and equipment for personal purposes without reimbursement to the Church." The letter specifically refers to the maintenance of the hierarchy's homes.
[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)]]
60 years ago today - Mar 2, 1966
The First Presidency learned that the Birch Society's March Bulletin encouraged Birch members to write "Personal and Confidential" letters to President McKay and to his two new counselors, Joseph Fielding Smith and Thorpe B. Isaacson.
[The John Birch Society Bulletin (Mar. 1966): 22-24; "CROSS REFERENCE SHEET," 2 Mar. 1966, in "Hugh B. Brown's File on the John Birch Society." From D. Michael Quinn, Ezra Taft Benson and Mormon Political Conflicts, Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought 26:2 (Summer 1992), also in Quinn, The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power Salt Lake City (Signature Books, 1994), Chapter 3.]
[The John Birch Society Bulletin (Mar. 1966): 22-24; "CROSS REFERENCE SHEET," 2 Mar. 1966, in "Hugh B. Brown's File on the John Birch Society." From D. Michael Quinn, Ezra Taft Benson and Mormon Political Conflicts, Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought 26:2 (Summer 1992), also in Quinn, The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power Salt Lake City (Signature Books, 1994), Chapter 3.]
140 years ago today - Mar 2, 1886
Quorum of the Twelve accepts John Taylor's statement that it is "the mind of the Lord" for George Q. Cannon to forfeit the $25,000 bond and for that to be paid from the church mining revenues. This may be the date of the second revelation on Bullion, Beck, and Champion Mining Company, which George Q. Cannon describes to apostles on 27 Apr. 1899. Text is unavailable. Cannon skips his trial on 17 Mar. and forfeits bond.
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
145 years ago today - Wednesday, Mar 2, 1881
[Apostle John Henry Smith]
Kingston, Piute County
The people here live in the United Order but they are in an unpleasant situation, as some of their members are drawing off, and the best of feeling does not exist. We had a long talk with four of the King brothers in relation to the affairs of the order and found that they were in doubt in regard to the final wind up of matters.
[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]
Kingston, Piute County
The people here live in the United Order but they are in an unpleasant situation, as some of their members are drawing off, and the best of feeling does not exist. We had a long talk with four of the King brothers in relation to the affairs of the order and found that they were in doubt in regard to the final wind up of matters.
[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]
165 years ago today - Mar 02, 1861
The U.S. Congress creates the territory of Nevada out of the western half of Utah Territory.
170 years ago today - Mar 2, 1856
President Young ... reproved the people. He considered the people were not ownly asleep but working wickedness. He considered many of the people were like a company of Men rushing to a precipice on a dark night on horsback whare neither horse nor rider could see any thing but would soon be dashed to peaces. He wanted the Elders to put away their velvet lips & smooth things & preach sermons like pitch forks tines downwards that the people might wake up.
... President Grant ... rained down pitch forks & forked lighting figuratively speaking upon the Gentiles who were working wickedness upon this people & defiling the females. ...
The Indian war Continues. 3 more brethren have been killed. Squash one of the war Chiefs was put in prision & the report is that he cut his own throat. He is dead.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
... President Grant ... rained down pitch forks & forked lighting figuratively speaking upon the Gentiles who were working wickedness upon this people & defiling the females. ...
The Indian war Continues. 3 more brethren have been killed. Squash one of the war Chiefs was put in prision & the report is that he cut his own throat. He is dead.
[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 - Mar 2, 1856
First Presidency Counselor Jedediah M. Grant preaches: "I want the Gentiles to understand that we know all about their whoredoms and other abominations here. If we have not invariably killed such corrupt scoundrels, those who will seek to corrupt and pollute our community, I swear to you that we mean to, and to accomplish more in a few hours, towards clearing the atmosphere, than all your grand and traverse juries can in a year."
170 years ago today - Mar 2, 1856
[Brigham Young]
There are men here, by the score, who do not know their right hands from their left, so far as the principle of justice is concerned. Does our High Council? No, for they will let men throw dust in their eyes, until you cannot find the hundredth millionth part of an ounce of common sense in them. You may go to the Bishops' courts, and what are they? A set of old grannies. They cannot judge a case pending between two old women, to say nothing of a case between man and man. We have already dropped many of them, and we are picking up young men. We will train them, and tell them to serve God or apostatize. The time is coming when justice will be laid to the line and righteousness to the plummet; when we shall take the old broad sword and ask, '"Are you for God?'" and if you are not heartily on the Lord's side, you will be hewn down.
[Journal of Discourses. Liverpool, England, 1853-86. 3:221-22, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
There are men here, by the score, who do not know their right hands from their left, so far as the principle of justice is concerned. Does our High Council? No, for they will let men throw dust in their eyes, until you cannot find the hundredth millionth part of an ounce of common sense in them. You may go to the Bishops' courts, and what are they? A set of old grannies. They cannot judge a case pending between two old women, to say nothing of a case between man and man. We have already dropped many of them, and we are picking up young men. We will train them, and tell them to serve God or apostatize. The time is coming when justice will be laid to the line and righteousness to the plummet; when we shall take the old broad sword and ask, '"Are you for God?'" and if you are not heartily on the Lord's side, you will be hewn down.
[Journal of Discourses. Liverpool, England, 1853-86. 3:221-22, 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 - Mar 2, 1851
The Assembly was addressed By P. P Pratt ... Those [sisters] who marry out of the Church marry those who are doomed to destruction & their posterity while those who are in the Church & are faithful will live & their Children to the last Generation....
[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]
185 years ago today - Mar 2, 1841
At Joseph Smith's request, Bishop George Miller reported from John C. Bennett's former residence that "his wife left him under satisfactory evidence of his adulterous connections." In April, Bennett would be appointed Assistant President to Joseph Smith and becomes heavily involved "spiritual wifery" in Nauvoo.
15 years ago today - 2011-03-01
The "Book of Mormon" musical opens on Broadway
[Mormon Women's History Timeline, http://www1.chapman.edu/~remy/MoFem/mormonwomen.html]
[Mormon Women's History Timeline, http://www1.chapman.edu/~remy/MoFem/mormonwomen.html]
60 years ago today - Mar 1, 1966
[David O. McKay]
In response to an inquiry from a brother as to whether his 34 year old son, who is suffering from cerebral palsy, might be permitted to refrain from wearing his garments after receiving his endowments in the Temple, it was decided to tell this brother that we think it inadvisable for his son to receive his endowments at this time under the circumstances.
[David O. McKay diary, Mar. 1, 1966, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
In response to an inquiry from a brother as to whether his 34 year old son, who is suffering from cerebral palsy, might be permitted to refrain from wearing his garments after receiving his endowments in the Temple, it was decided to tell this brother that we think it inadvisable for his son to receive his endowments at this time under the circumstances.
[David O. McKay diary, Mar. 1, 1966, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
135 years ago today - Mar 1, 1891
[President Wilford Woodruff]
I did not know but I would be Called to die upon my Birth Day [due to severe illness that day].
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
I did not know but I would be Called to die upon my Birth Day [due to severe illness that day].
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
145 years ago today - Mar 1, 1881
[Wilford Woodruff]
This is my birth day. I am this day 74 years of Age And I wish to bear my Testimony to all persons whomsoever may read this Journal that the God of Israel has sustained me and watched over me by his power or agency from the hour of my birth up to the present hour. I have spent my birthdays in this Temple of 1870, 71, 72, & 74. I spent my 73d birth day in Sunset Arizona.
This is one of the most glorious days of my life. This morning we had appeared at the Temple 239 for Endowments the greatest Number we Ever gave Endowments at any one day in this Temple since it was dedicated /Except one/ and 77 Male Members got Endowments for my Dead and 23 femals. Total 110 Endowments for my dead. Praise the Lord O my soul for this Blessing. What rejoicing in the spirit world. I sealed 1 Couple & adopted 1. We had a glorious day. The spirit of God was with us. I spent the Evening at an Entertainment in the City Hall.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
This is my birth day. I am this day 74 years of Age And I wish to bear my Testimony to all persons whomsoever may read this Journal that the God of Israel has sustained me and watched over me by his power or agency from the hour of my birth up to the present hour. I have spent my birthdays in this Temple of 1870, 71, 72, & 74. I spent my 73d birth day in Sunset Arizona.
This is one of the most glorious days of my life. This morning we had appeared at the Temple 239 for Endowments the greatest Number we Ever gave Endowments at any one day in this Temple since it was dedicated /Except one/ and 77 Male Members got Endowments for my Dead and 23 femals. Total 110 Endowments for my dead. Praise the Lord O my soul for this Blessing. What rejoicing in the spirit world. I sealed 1 Couple & adopted 1. We had a glorious day. The spirit of God was with us. I spent the Evening at an Entertainment in the City Hall.
[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 - Sunday, Mar 1, 1846.
The first wagons leave the encampment at Sugar Creek in Iowa, headed for the Great Salt Lake Valley. Heber C. Kimball addressed the camp:
"no doubt many would be tried, but he would see the kingdom of God established and all the kingdoms of this world become the kingdom of God and of his Christ. ... that we were not going out of the world, but out of his majesty's dominions. If Nauvoo has the most holy place, it will be the most wicked place. ... A plague came into our camp for disobedience when on our way to Missouri and our best men fell victims, and so it will be again under like circumstances. I want no man to touch any of my things without leave. If any man will come to me and say that he wants to steal, I will give him the amount. Cease all your loud laughter and light speeches, for the Lord is displeased with such things, and call upon the Lord with all your might.
About noon, the camp began to move ..."
[Apostle Willard Richards Journal]
"no doubt many would be tried, but he would see the kingdom of God established and all the kingdoms of this world become the kingdom of God and of his Christ. ... that we were not going out of the world, but out of his majesty's dominions. If Nauvoo has the most holy place, it will be the most wicked place. ... A plague came into our camp for disobedience when on our way to Missouri and our best men fell victims, and so it will be again under like circumstances. I want no man to touch any of my things without leave. If any man will come to me and say that he wants to steal, I will give him the amount. Cease all your loud laughter and light speeches, for the Lord is displeased with such things, and call upon the Lord with all your might.
About noon, the camp began to move ..."
[Apostle Willard Richards Journal]
180 years ago today - Mar 1, 1846
Lucy Mack Smith signs a published statement in support of the succession claim of James J. Strang.
[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]
185 years ago today - Mar 1, 1841
Nauvoo city ordinance that "the Catholics, Presbyterians, Methodists, Baptists, Latter-day Saints, Quakers, Episcopals, Universalists, Unitarians, Mohammedans, and all other religious sects and denominations, whatever, shall have free toleration, and equal privileges." This law provided for a $300 fine and 6-month imprisonment for anyone convicted of ridiculing a person's religious beliefs. At this time, several states of the U.S.A. prohibited Jews and other non-Christians from voting or holding public office.
[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]
120 years ago today - Feb 28, 1906; Wednesday
Patriarchs, members of High Council, Bishops & presidents of quorums met to discuss the question of the introduction of waltz- ing in our social parties. The Prescy. of the stake, the Patriarchs, members of High Council, Bps. & others spoke. By unanimous vote it was decided that the present condition under which waltzing is not permitted in our social parties continue in force.
[Anderson, Elizabeth Oberdick, editor, Cowboy Apostle: The Diaries of Anthony W. Ivins: 1875-1932, Signature Books, Salt Lake City in association with the Smith-Pettit Foundation (2013) - http://bit.ly/AnthonyIvins]
[Anderson, Elizabeth Oberdick, editor, Cowboy Apostle: The Diaries of Anthony W. Ivins: 1875-1932, Signature Books, Salt Lake City in association with the Smith-Pettit Foundation (2013) - http://bit.ly/AnthonyIvins]
180 years ago today - Feb 28, 1846
... at sundown to the [Nauvoo] Temple, where we spent the evening in holy conversation, administering the Sacrament, and speaking in Tongues, enjoyed the fruits of the Gospel.
[Samuel W. Richards journal, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
[Samuel W. Richards journal, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
180 years ago today - Feb 28, 1846
Communication to the Governor of Iowa ... to shield and protect the Mormons in their constitutional rights is pointed out the dilemma that faced the L.D.S. Church and its membership in Illinois in 1846: "To stay, is death by 'fire and sword,' to go into banishment unprepared, is death by starvation."
[Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
[Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
180 years ago today - Feb 28, 1846
Brigham Young notes that the Camp of Israel formed west of Nauvoo across the Mississippi River "consisted of nearly four hundred wagons all very heavily loaded" and "several thousand persons [who] left their homes in midwinter and exposed themselves without shelter, except that afforded by scanty supply of tents and wagon covers, to a cold which effectually made an ice bridge over the Mississippi river . . ." Young records: "Colonel Hosea Stout with about one hundred men acted as a police for the encampment; they were generally armed with rifles."
195 years ago today - Feb 28, 1831
"It is well known that Jo Smith never pretended to have any communion with angels, until a long period after the pretended finding of his book, and that the juggling of himself or father, went no further than the pretended faculty of seeing wonders in a "peep stone," and the occasional interview with the spirit, supposed to have the custody of hidden treasures."
"Walters assembled his nightly band of money diggers in the town of Manchester, at a point designated in his magical book, and drawing a circle around laborers, with the point of an old rusty sword, and using sundry other incantations, for the purpose of propiating [sic] the spirit, absolutely sacrificed a fowl, ("Rooster,") in the presence of his awe- stricken companions, to the foul spirit, whom ignorance had created, the guardian of hidden wealth."
[Abner Cole, "Gold Bible, No. 5," Reflector, (Palmyra, NY), 28 February 1831, as quoted in A Topical Guide of Treasure-Seeking Rituals From the American Northeast during the 18th and 19th Centuries, Compiled by Joseph T. Antley (2010)]
"Walters assembled his nightly band of money diggers in the town of Manchester, at a point designated in his magical book, and drawing a circle around laborers, with the point of an old rusty sword, and using sundry other incantations, for the purpose of propiating [sic] the spirit, absolutely sacrificed a fowl, ("Rooster,") in the presence of his awe- stricken companions, to the foul spirit, whom ignorance had created, the guardian of hidden wealth."
[Abner Cole, "Gold Bible, No. 5," Reflector, (Palmyra, NY), 28 February 1831, as quoted in A Topical Guide of Treasure-Seeking Rituals From the American Northeast during the 18th and 19th Centuries, Compiled by Joseph T. Antley (2010)]
45 years ago today - Feb 27, 1981
The First Presidency authorizes stake presidents to ordain patriarchs. Previously, the Twelve maintained that as an exclusive right, even denying it to the church's presiding patriarch.
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
130 years ago today - Feb 27, 1896
Court dismisses the long-standing indictment against John M. Higbee. Other participants say privately that he was the most blood-thirsty man at Mountain Meadows Massacre.
[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)]]
60 years ago today - Feb 26, 1966
A temple-square talk by Apostle Ezra Taft Benson is printed in the DESERET NEWS. However references to the John Birch Society are deleted without Apostle Benson's permission. In the talk he said that he had read the Birch Society's Blue Book, Robert Welch's The Politician, and recommended that the audience subscribe to the Birch Society's official magazine American Opinion. His talk even included the mailing address."
["Stand Up For Freedom: Partial Text Of Talk Given to S.L. Group By Elder Benson," Deseret News "Church News," 26 Feb. 1966,10-12; Duane Price to D. Michael Quinn, 9 Aug. 1992, summarizing his meeting with Benson in April 1966. Price was a supporter of Benson's position on the Birch Society. Anderson, "Church and Birch In Utah," 35n29, alluded to the censorship of the talk in the Church News. From D. Michael Quinn, Ezra Taft Benson and Mormon Political Conflicts, Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought 26:2 (Summer 1992), also in Quinn, The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power Salt Lake City (Signature Books, 1994), Chapter 3.]
["Stand Up For Freedom: Partial Text Of Talk Given to S.L. Group By Elder Benson," Deseret News "Church News," 26 Feb. 1966,10-12; Duane Price to D. Michael Quinn, 9 Aug. 1992, summarizing his meeting with Benson in April 1966. Price was a supporter of Benson's position on the Birch Society. Anderson, "Church and Birch In Utah," 35n29, alluded to the censorship of the talk in the Church News. From D. Michael Quinn, Ezra Taft Benson and Mormon Political Conflicts, Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought 26:2 (Summer 1992), also in Quinn, The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power Salt Lake City (Signature Books, 1994), Chapter 3.]
75 years ago today - February 26-Apr 4, 1951
[February 26:] Very confused, very nervous.
[February 28:] Is confused as to time of day.
[March 15:] Not disoriented as he has been from other sedation.
[March 20:] Somewhat confused this A.M.
[March 22:] Wonders where he is.
[March 27:] Irrational at times.
[April 1:] P[atien]t. disoriented most of day.
[April 2:] Know[s] his son.
[Nurses' notes regarding George Albert Smith's last days, 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]
[February 28:] Is confused as to time of day.
[March 15:] Not disoriented as he has been from other sedation.
[March 20:] Somewhat confused this A.M.
[March 22:] Wonders where he is.
[March 27:] Irrational at times.
[April 1:] P[atien]t. disoriented most of day.
[April 2:] Know[s] his son.
[Nurses' notes regarding George Albert Smith's last days, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
85 years ago today - Feb 26, 1941
[J. Reuben Clark]
Bp Wirthlin'Telephoned about stopping George Martin going into Temple'a "New Polyg" I told him I would get in touch with David O. and let him know.
Telephoned Bro Chipman telling him about it. He said he would take care of it.'I asked him to look the Presid. Bishopric for further information and so informed the Presid. Bishopric'Bro. Wirthlin.
[The Diaries of J. Reuben Clark, 1933-1961, Abridged, Digital Edition, Salt Lake City, Utah 2015]
Bp Wirthlin'Telephoned about stopping George Martin going into Temple'a "New Polyg" I told him I would get in touch with David O. and let him know.
Telephoned Bro Chipman telling him about it. He said he would take care of it.'I asked him to look the Presid. Bishopric for further information and so informed the Presid. Bishopric'Bro. Wirthlin.
[The Diaries of J. Reuben Clark, 1933-1961, Abridged, Digital Edition, Salt Lake City, Utah 2015]
95 years ago today - Feb 26, 1931
[Heber J. Grant]
We have before us your letter of February 18, in which you say that in your Priesthood class one Brother claims that Adam 'had been through the experience of mortality on another sphere before he came here; that he was a celestialized being when placed in the Garden of Eden.' What this brother means by 'celestialized being' is not clear. We are informed that we all lived in the presence of God in the spirit world before we came here. In one sense we might say that this was a celestialized existence. If what is meant is that Adam had passed on to celestial glory through a resurrection before he came here, and that afterwards he was appointed to this earth to die again, the second time becoming mortal, then it is not scriptural or according to the truth. ... Adam could have remained in the Garden of Eden indefinitely if he had not transgressed the law which brought to pass mortality. Since Adam had not passed through the resurrection his spirit and body were not inseparably
connected, hence it was possible for him to become mortal by partaking of the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. By so doing he received the seeds of death and brought to pass mortality in himself and caused all of his posterity to partake of like conditions and be subject to death. ...
[Heber J. Grant, Letter to Joseph H. Eldredge, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
We have before us your letter of February 18, in which you say that in your Priesthood class one Brother claims that Adam 'had been through the experience of mortality on another sphere before he came here; that he was a celestialized being when placed in the Garden of Eden.' What this brother means by 'celestialized being' is not clear. We are informed that we all lived in the presence of God in the spirit world before we came here. In one sense we might say that this was a celestialized existence. If what is meant is that Adam had passed on to celestial glory through a resurrection before he came here, and that afterwards he was appointed to this earth to die again, the second time becoming mortal, then it is not scriptural or according to the truth. ... Adam could have remained in the Garden of Eden indefinitely if he had not transgressed the law which brought to pass mortality. Since Adam had not passed through the resurrection his spirit and body were not inseparably
connected, hence it was possible for him to become mortal by partaking of the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. By so doing he received the seeds of death and brought to pass mortality in himself and caused all of his posterity to partake of like conditions and be subject to death. ...
[Heber J. Grant, Letter to Joseph H. Eldredge, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
125 years ago today - Feb 26, 1901
We held a special meeting of the First Presidentcy and Apostles ... This meeting was called to reconsider the Evans Bill relating to unlawful cohabitation [making it unlawful for anyone to bring a charge of adultery against a married man except the legal wife, she being the aggrieved party -- lessening the ability of church enemies to make charges of polygamy againt Mormons]. We all spoke on this subject. Pres[iden]t. Snow said he had not got the will of the Lord and wanted us to express ourselves. We all spoke in favor of the bill but Reed Smoot and he said it was simply a question of policy with him'he would vote with his brethren. Some very warm words were exchanged between Pres[iden]ts. Cannon and Smith. It was moved by Pres[iden]t. Jos[eph]. F. Smith and 2nd by F[rancis]. M. Lyman to sustain the Evans Bill. Carried unanimously.
[Abraham Owen Woodruff Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
[Abraham Owen Woodruff Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
130 years ago today - Wednesday, Feb 26, 1896
[John Henry Smith]
F[rancis]. M. Lyman and I were weighed today and just weighed 248 pounds each. I had a tumor cut out of my back by Dr. Jos. F. Richards today.
[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]
F[rancis]. M. Lyman and I were weighed today and just weighed 248 pounds each. I had a tumor cut out of my back by Dr. Jos. F. Richards today.
[Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith]
130 years ago today - Feb 26, 1896
Bro[ther] [B. H.] R[oberts] seems to have taken his farewell of his brethern among whom he has labored so faithfully for lo these many years.
[Seymour B. Young, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
[Seymour B. Young, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
135 years ago today - Feb 26, 1891
[Brigham Young Jr.]
American mail this morning, first thing noticed in Des[eret] E[vening]. N[ews]. was raid after more property belonging to church & individuals The Temples in S[alt]. L[ake]. C[ity]. Manti & St. George [Utah] are mentioned by US Dis[trict]. Att[orne]y. I was so disturbed when reading of their mean[n]ess that I could scarcely contain my feelings. I would rather fight if it is the Lords will than submit longer to these curses who disgrace the Gov[ernor]. they represent. If it were in my power I would stand by those Temples and kill the first hound from the President of U.S.A. down to the dastardly U.S. Marshals from Franks down to Pratt before they should desecrate those sacred buildings. These were my thoughts until I was worked up to a pitch seldom reached by one of my temper. Suddenly I remembered the Lord was managing this business, and I prayed unto Him in my heart, O Lord give the Government and people of the United States something to chew besides the 562 L[atter]. D[ay].
S[aints].
[Brigham Young Jr. Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
American mail this morning, first thing noticed in Des[eret] E[vening]. N[ews]. was raid after more property belonging to church & individuals The Temples in S[alt]. L[ake]. C[ity]. Manti & St. George [Utah] are mentioned by US Dis[trict]. Att[orne]y. I was so disturbed when reading of their mean[n]ess that I could scarcely contain my feelings. I would rather fight if it is the Lords will than submit longer to these curses who disgrace the Gov[ernor]. they represent. If it were in my power I would stand by those Temples and kill the first hound from the President of U.S.A. down to the dastardly U.S. Marshals from Franks down to Pratt before they should desecrate those sacred buildings. These were my thoughts until I was worked up to a pitch seldom reached by one of my temper. Suddenly I remembered the Lord was managing this business, and I prayed unto Him in my heart, O Lord give the Government and people of the United States something to chew besides the 562 L[atter]. D[ay].
S[aints].
[Brigham Young Jr. Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
175 years ago today - Feb 26, 1851
President Young while speaking of the resurrection said that we should receive the same bodies that we lay down, if our dust was blown to the four winds of heaven.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
30 years ago today - Feb 25, 1996
The proportion of Church members living outside United States surpasses 50%.
[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]
65 years ago today - Feb 25, 1961
During the baseball-baptism era a speech by First Presidency Counselor Henry D. Moyle is published in the CHURCH NEWS: "We need these young men [baptized teenagers]. How are we going to get this [labor] missionary building program carried out without them? The answer is, we could not. . . . You elders need have no concern, no matter from what source the criticism comes, as to whether your baptisms are too fast. . . . If you think that President McKay does not know what is going on and that Brother Moyle and Brother Woodbury, and Brother Brockbank are "pulling a fast one," so to speak, why you are mistaken about that. . . . I have noted a little apologetic tone in some of your voices about baptizing too many young people. Well don't put on the brakes."
130 years ago today - Feb 25, 1896
sisters Zina D. H. Young and Jane S. Richards, on behalf of the Relief Society, asked the following questions, and received the accompanying answers: ... Bishops and others have no right to interfere in this matter, nor to take possession or control of the wheat which belongs to the Relief Societies. The counsel and advice which Bishops may give are another thing. The wheat is entirely under the control of the Society to which it belongs.
[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]
145 years ago today - Feb 25, 1881
[Wilford Woodruff]
25 We drove to St George. ... We drove to the Temple whare I took up my abode. I rejoiced to once more take up my abiding Place in the Temple of our God. We went to the Altar and had our Prayers. ... We slept in the upper part of the Temple. 3
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
25 We drove to St George. ... We drove to the Temple whare I took up my abode. I rejoiced to once more take up my abiding Place in the Temple of our God. We went to the Altar and had our Prayers. ... We slept in the upper part of the Temple. 3
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
145 years ago today - Feb 25, 1881
DESERET NEWS reports that first counselor Joseph F. Smith and Apostle Wilford Woodruff set apart seven recent graduates of Dr. Romania B. Pratt's course in midwifery. Oliver B. Huntington records in his journal: "I went to Provo to a quarterly Stake Conference. Heard Joseph F. Smith describe the manner of translating the Book of Mormon by Joseph Smith the Prophet and Seer, which was as follows as near as I can recollect the substance of his description. Joseph did not render the writing on the gold plates into the English language in his own style of language as many people believe. But every word and every letter was given him by the gift and power of God. So it is the work of God and not of Joseph Smith, and it was done in this way - The Lord caused each word spelled as it is in the book to appear on the stones in short sentences or words, and when Joseph had uttered the sentence or word before him and the scribe had written it properly, that sentence would disappear and another
appear. And if there was a word wrongly written or even a letter incorrect the writing on the stone would remain there."
appear. And if there was a word wrongly written or even a letter incorrect the writing on the stone would remain there."
170 years ago today - Feb 25, 1856
President Young exhibited the Seers stone with which The Prophet Joseph discovered the plates of the Book of Mormon, to the Regents this evening
It is said to be a silecious granite color almost black with light colored stripes some what resembling petrified poplar or cotton wood bark[.] It was about the size but not the shape of a hens egg
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
It is said to be a silecious granite color almost black with light colored stripes some what resembling petrified poplar or cotton wood bark[.] It was about the size but not the shape of a hens egg
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
180 years ago today - Feb 25, 1846
At this meeting Brigham Young spoke ... he gave them a severe reprimand and declared that himself nor any other man had any right or exclusive privilege to pass or re-pass the guard and that he would know no man who had not the counter sign.
[On the Mormon Frontier, the Diaries of Hosea Stout. Juanita Brooks, ed. Salt Lake City: University of Utah Press, 1964. 1:127, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
[On the Mormon Frontier, the Diaries of Hosea Stout. Juanita Brooks, ed. Salt Lake City: University of Utah Press, 1964. 1:127, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
180 years ago today - Feb 25, 1846
He [Brigham Young] then spoke against thieving, cutting strings from wagon covers, and said the brethren had gone contrary to council in cutting rail timber, etc. on the camp ground, and they must stop all such practices; that they had not made him the leader of the Camp as yet, but if they should do it, when they got out of the settlements where his orders could be executed, they would have justice done them, and, said he, "I should be perfectly willing to see thieves have their throats cut. Some of you may say, if that is your feelings Brigham, we'll lay you aside some time. Well, do it if you can; I would rather die by the hands of the meanest of all men, false brethren, than to live among thieves."
[Manuscript History of Brigham Young, p.49, in Elden J. Watson, ed. Brigham Young Addresses, 1801-1877: A Chronological Compilation of Known Addresses of the Prophet Brigham Young, 6 vols. (Salt Lake City: Privately published, 1971)]
[Manuscript History of Brigham Young, p.49, in Elden J. Watson, ed. Brigham Young Addresses, 1801-1877: A Chronological Compilation of Known Addresses of the Prophet Brigham Young, 6 vols. (Salt Lake City: Privately published, 1971)]
55 years ago today - Feb 24, 1971
A meeting of 150 students on BYU's campus condemns the U.S. participation in the Vietnam War. Among them is Apostle Spencer W. Kimball's grandson, a registered conscientious objector and returned missionary. He and several members of the group soon publish a pamphlet, 'To the Men of BYU,' which encourages them to consider conscientious objection against this war. Surveys by BYU sociologists find that about 10 percent of BYU students oppose the Vietnam War.
[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 - Feb 24, 1856
Br. Brigham arose and spoke the plainest that I ever heard him ... I now say to all you [lawyers] that stir up strife and contention thieving and wickedness and don't repent, the curse of the Almighty shall rest upon you. I curse you in the name of Jesus Christ. Your children shall die, your substance shall wither and perish! ... Here is Judge Snow, to my right hand, a stink to this community, he goes around picking old sores, stirring up lawsuits to get business and for a mess of sugar and tea he can be bribed, he will wallow in his filth all the week and on Sunday come and stick himself in the stand by the side of me! I consider it a disgrace to me, to sit by him. I suppose he will want to speak now, but if he gets into this pulpit I will kick him out, It shan't be disgraced with him.
We have got the names of the loafers that attend court and we are going to send them on a mission and hope they won't be back in less than 5 years. We will send some good men with them, they may preach the gospel, or apostatize and go to hell. About a 150 names were called. -- SLC Tabernacle [Note: Zerubabel Snow asked the Quorum of Twelve for forgiveness. Heber C. Kimball warns, "When a man is appointed to take a mission, unless he has a just and honorable reason for not going, if he does not go he will be severed from the Church"]
[John Pulsipher Journal, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
We have got the names of the loafers that attend court and we are going to send them on a mission and hope they won't be back in less than 5 years. We will send some good men with them, they may preach the gospel, or apostatize and go to hell. About a 150 names were called. -- SLC Tabernacle [Note: Zerubabel Snow asked the Quorum of Twelve for forgiveness. Heber C. Kimball warns, "When a man is appointed to take a mission, unless he has a just and honorable reason for not going, if he does not go he will be severed from the Church"]
[John Pulsipher Journal, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
180 years ago today - Feb 24, 1846
En route from New York to California aboard the ship Brooklyn, Mormon emigrant Sarah Burr gives birth to a baby boy, whom she names John Atlantic Burr. He is the first of two children to be born on board the ship. Later, a baby girl is born to Phebe and John Robbins and is named Georgiana Pacific Robbins.
180 years ago today - Feb 24, 1846
An early thaw ends and the Mississippi river freezes over at Nauvoo. This considerably aids the Mormons in their exodus out of the city that has been going on for over two weeks. Wagons can now be driven across the ice instead of having to be carried across on ferry boats. At 7 pm, Willard Richards noted the temperature was 12 degrees above zero.
10 years ago today - 2016 February 23
FLDS Church leaders in the Short Creek Community are arrested by the FBI and charged with orchestrating food stamp fraud through church-owned business and coaching church members to participate.
[Wikipedia, 21st Century (Mormonism), http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/21st_century_(Mormonism)]
[Wikipedia, 21st Century (Mormonism), http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/21st_century_(Mormonism)]
45 years ago today - Feb 23, 1981
Provo's Jiffy Lube auto service center offers a complete lube, a chance to meet Elder Paul H. Dunn, a member of the Presidency of the General Quorum of Seventy, and a free autographed book to the first 50 customers-all for just $14.95.
100 years ago today - Feb 23, 1926
[Heber J. Grant]
.... Told him of the temptations that came to me to resign because I had never seen the Savior and that I was unfit to be an apostle etc. I related to him the manifestation that I had in Arizona ...
[The Diaries of Heber J. Grant, 1880-1945, Abridged, Digital Edition Salt Lake City, Utah, 2015]
.... Told him of the temptations that came to me to resign because I had never seen the Savior and that I was unfit to be an apostle etc. I related to him the manifestation that I had in Arizona ...
[The Diaries of Heber J. Grant, 1880-1945, Abridged, Digital Edition Salt Lake City, Utah, 2015]
130 years ago today - Feb 23, 1896
[Heber J. Grant]
This morning about nine thirty he [i.e., his seven-year-old son, Heber] had another sinking spell and at the suggestion of Bishop Nelson A. Empey, who was present I ordained my little boy an Elder in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and I blessed him with all the earnestness of my soul, and dedicated him to the Lord to live or die which ever was His will, and covenanted with the Lord if he would spare my only son, and give him life and strength that I would dedicate his time to the service of the Lord and do all in my power to teach him the ways of truth and righteousness. I had wonderfully good liberty in blessing my son. He revived again. [His son died four days later.]
[The Diaries of Heber J. Grant, 1880-1945, Abridged, Digital Edition Salt Lake City, Utah, 2015]
This morning about nine thirty he [i.e., his seven-year-old son, Heber] had another sinking spell and at the suggestion of Bishop Nelson A. Empey, who was present I ordained my little boy an Elder in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and I blessed him with all the earnestness of my soul, and dedicated him to the Lord to live or die which ever was His will, and covenanted with the Lord if he would spare my only son, and give him life and strength that I would dedicate his time to the service of the Lord and do all in my power to teach him the ways of truth and righteousness. I had wonderfully good liberty in blessing my son. He revived again. [His son died four days later.]
[The Diaries of Heber J. Grant, 1880-1945, Abridged, Digital Edition Salt Lake City, Utah, 2015]
130 years ago today - Feb 23, 1896
[Brigham Young Jr.]
I had a talk with Pres[iden]t Hammond Asked him did he endorse the doctrine when Pres[iden]t Woodruff called upon Patriarch John Smith to step down and out or quit smoking or use of tobacco. he said I do with all my heart. Then will you step down, he said yes. He had letter read Presidency sent him. I read it again when Pres[ident] H. proposed that people try him another 6 mo[nths]. ... People voted with 3 exceptions to try him another 6 mo[nths]. I felt obliged to let the matter rest until next Conference.
[Diary of Apostle Brigham Young Jr., http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
I had a talk with Pres[iden]t Hammond Asked him did he endorse the doctrine when Pres[iden]t Woodruff called upon Patriarch John Smith to step down and out or quit smoking or use of tobacco. he said I do with all my heart. Then will you step down, he said yes. He had letter read Presidency sent him. I read it again when Pres[ident] H. proposed that people try him another 6 mo[nths]. ... People voted with 3 exceptions to try him another 6 mo[nths]. I felt obliged to let the matter rest until next Conference.
[Diary of Apostle Brigham Young Jr., http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
145 years ago today - Feb 23, 1881
[Wilford Woodruff]
I spent the night at the House of Widow Roundy. I laid hands upon her and sealed a Blessing upon her. The Angel of God Recorded it But I have not a Record of it in my Journal.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
I spent the night at the House of Widow Roundy. I laid hands upon her and sealed a Blessing upon her. The Angel of God Recorded it But I have not a Record of it in my Journal.
[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 - Feb 23, 1861
The President emphatically and distinctly said those who enter the glory of the Telestial World will have to dwell singly and separately apart; they will not marry there, they will be happy. It will be the same with the Terrestrial Glory they will not marry although their glory will be infinitely greater. None but the Gods will be allowed to multiply and increase. In Celestial glory there will be many who will be single also. -- Salt Lake City
[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]
175 years ago today - Feb 23, 1851
Pres Young who prophesied that the time is near when all the emigration of the Saints from Europe and the East will come by way of the [-] and South California instead of by the grave yards on the Mississippi, Missouri and Platte Rivers '- and that we should raise our cotton and sugar in the south, instead of from the States '- and that as most of the persons who were pearl fishers, were our own brethren, that we should command the pearl fisheries in our own hands. And the U.S. could not help themselves. He also said that many who were going south with Amasa Lyman and Charles C. Rich when they had wallowed in the mire long enough, that they would be glad to wash themselves and return here again. -- Salt Lake City
[Historians Office Journal, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
[Historians Office Journal, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
195 years ago today - Feb 23, 1831
D&C 42:78-93 (Kirtland): Methods for dealing with transgressors; murderers, thieves, and liars to civil authorities; adulterers to be tried before the church, bishop should be present, two witnesses required; other offenders rebuked in secret if offense was private.
[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]
60 years ago today - Feb 22, 1966
During a visit at church headquarters the last week of February, Senator Moss found "a number of the Brethren boiling pretty good" about Benson's recent talk. These general authorities "decided that Brother Benson's Assembly Hall speech should not be printed in the Church News. This was the decision until it was found that President McKay had already approved its printing and his office had directed the Deseret News to print it."
[Reported by U.S. senator Frank E. Moss to U.S. representative Ken W. Dyal, 2 Mar. 1966, folder 5, box 184, Moss Papers. Moss wrote that this assessment was based on conversations a week earlier with "the Brethren." However, his Daily Activity Log refers to meeting with only one current general authority—Hugh B. Brown on 22 February (box 713, Moss Papers). From D. Michael Quinn, Ezra Taft Benson and Mormon Political Conflicts, Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought 26:2 (Summer 1992), also in Quinn, The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power Salt Lake City (Signature Books, 1994), Chapter 3.]
[Reported by U.S. senator Frank E. Moss to U.S. representative Ken W. Dyal, 2 Mar. 1966, folder 5, box 184, Moss Papers. Moss wrote that this assessment was based on conversations a week earlier with "the Brethren." However, his Daily Activity Log refers to meeting with only one current general authority—Hugh B. Brown on 22 February (box 713, Moss Papers). From D. Michael Quinn, Ezra Taft Benson and Mormon Political Conflicts, Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought 26:2 (Summer 1992), also in Quinn, The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power Salt Lake City (Signature Books, 1994), Chapter 3.]
115 years ago today - Feb 22, 1911
Trial of John W. Taylor before the Quorum of Apostles for some of his post-manifesto plural marriage activities. In his defense Taylor has read aloud and entered into the minutes the Sept. 27, 1886 revelation given to his father, President John Taylor. The revelation is discussed. Apostle Joseph Fielding Smith states that a he, himself, as placed the original of the revelation in the church archives. However, Heber J. Grant, who is present and participated during the trial, later, as president of the church, publicly denies the existence of this revelation claiming there is no knowledge or record of it in the church. During the trial Taylor asks that President Joseph F. Smith be called in on his behalf but the council refuses to contact President Smith. The Apostles formally excommunicate Taylor on Mar 28.
165 years ago today - Feb 22, 1861
Apostle Orson Pratt submits to the MATHEMATICAL MONTHLY (Cambridge, Massachusetts) a series of problems concerning mathematical laws relating to the origin of the solar system. He later recalls: "I prepared a series of problems relating to this subject, and forwarded the same to the editor of the Mathematical Monthly, . . . But in the consequence of the war then pending, the paper ceased its publication, and I heard nothing further from the manuscript. But as it was hastily and somewhat imperfectly prepared, it is perhaps better that it remained unpublished," In a letter to the editor of the Mathematical Monthly accompanying the articles, Pratt notes that his work was done without the aid of "any mathematical works." Pratt publishes CUBIC AND BIQUARATIC EQUATIONS and writes texts on differential calculus and determinants which he doesn't publish.
165 years ago today - Feb 22, 1861
The President [Brigham Young]] saw the foundation of the [Salt Lake] Temple was not laid even and he thought of taking some up and level it. The President observed to him that when he saw it he felt it was wrong. The B[isho]p said he wished the Pres[ident] had forcible told him so. The President said he did mention it, but men frequently have to much confidence in themselves. He further remarked he did not care about the expense of work but he wanted it laid out well and the work done properly. Pres. said he intended to have all the rocks taken up and he would get him T.O. Angel & Jesse Fox and overlook the laying of the rock, that it might be done properly. The President saw in a few hundred years some of the ancients will be here, and contrast our buildings with those that they have build. If we could see the buildings they put up before the flood we should see we had grown weaker and not wiser. -- Salt Lake City
[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]
180 years ago today - Feb 22, 1846
At a meeting in the recently-completed Nauvoo Temple "the room was crowded and a great weight caused the new truss floor to settle nearly to its proper position. While settling, an inch-board or some light timber underneath was caught and cracked, the sound of which created great alarm in the congregation and some jumped out of the windows, smashing the glass and all before them. Philo Farnsworth smashed the northeast window while others ran out of the doors and many or those who remained jumped up and down with all their might crying Oh! Oh!! Oh!!! As though they could not settle the floor fast enough, but at the same time so agitated that they knew now what they did. . . .One man who jumped out of the window broke his arm and mashed his face, another broke his leg." Wilford Woodruff records: "I dreamed last night that there was a great Storm that killed thousands of Birds that were floating upon the water. I saw many that were not quite dead. I waided in 2 or three feet of water
& picked out many of them & put them under a goose that was sitting & they were warmed brought to life & run about lively & well."
& picked out many of them & put them under a goose that was sitting & they were warmed brought to life & run about lively & well."
190 years ago today - Feb 22, 1836
The lower room of the [Kirtland] temple is ready for painting, and Brigham Young will superintend it. The sisters meet to begin making for the temple a white canvas curtain called the veil.
[Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
195 years ago today - Feb 22, 1831
Writing from Kirtland (OH), Joseph Smith instructs Martin Harris to "come as soon as you can ... bring or cause to <be> brought all the books [of Mormon] ... inform the Elders which are there that all of them who can be spared will come here without delay if possable this by commandment of the Lord ... send to Colesville and have either Hiram or Newel to come [-] immediately or both if they can be spared. You will not sell the books [of Mormon] for less than 10 Shillings".
[Vogel, Dan, Early Mormon Documents, Appendix B: Chronology, 1771-1831, http://amzn.to/T5nY8w]
[Vogel, Dan, Early Mormon Documents, Appendix B: Chronology, 1771-1831, http://amzn.to/T5nY8w]
30 years ago today - Feb 21, 1996
The Deseret News (with a follow-up on 28 Feb.) reports that LDS president Gordon B. Hinckley meets with Honolulu's Catholic bishop Francis X. DiLorenzo to coordinate "as part of a grass-roots coalition opposed to same-sex marriage" legalization.
[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)]]
35 years ago today - Feb 21, 1991
SALT LAKE TRIBUNE article "Dunn Story Proves Costly for Veteran Journalist" tells of how Lynn Packer lost his teaching job at BYU after breaking the story about Paul H. Dunn's false baseball and war stories.
105 years ago today - Feb 21, 1921
[James E. Talmage]
.... By further action taken on unanimous vote of the High Council the branch hitherto known as the West Tintic branch of the Tintic Stake of Zion was disorganized. Thus all semblance of Church supervision in the affairs of that unfortunate little group of people has been taken away. When, more than a year ago, reports reached the First Presidency, to the effect that the people in West Tintic had undertaken to establish the 'United Order', they to have all things in common and to abolish all private ownership, I was appointed to investigate the matter. As a result of my first visit to the Tintic Stake with this as one of my appointed duties, I reported the facts as I found them, which were briefly these: That Moses Gudmundson, who was the leader and dominating figure in the movement, denied all intention of going ahead of the Church, specifically in the matter of attempting to start a colony according to the United Order plan; that I did not believe his protestations, but on the
other hand was convinced that the people of West Tintic, then organized into an independent branch in the Tintic Stake, were being led by an evil influence. Many other investigations have followed; and we have found to our sorrow that what we saw as the inevitable development of evil unless the people placed themselves in strict harmony with the order and government of the Church, had become a reality, namely, erotic ideas and practises concerning the marital state and the sexual relation. The best I can say of the people is that they have become fanatical through the power of evil. They have made sacrifice their hobby. The eating of meat, the taking of animal life even to provide food, and many other practises common with other people have been forbidden there; while long fasts and particularly the sacrificing of comforts and wholesome desires have been held up as ideals. Now they have reached the abominable status of men sacrificing their wives to other men; and by this means
they have put themselves under the laws of Church discipline and have made themselves subject to the punishment provided for by the law of the land. The present state is one of abominable immorality. Some of the women, notably the wife of Moses Gudmundson, and the wife of Gerald Lowry, withdrew promptly from the colony rather than countenance in any degree these ungodly practices. I believe that the judgment of the High Council in these cases is just; and that others than those already tried are involved.
[James E. Talmage, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
.... By further action taken on unanimous vote of the High Council the branch hitherto known as the West Tintic branch of the Tintic Stake of Zion was disorganized. Thus all semblance of Church supervision in the affairs of that unfortunate little group of people has been taken away. When, more than a year ago, reports reached the First Presidency, to the effect that the people in West Tintic had undertaken to establish the 'United Order', they to have all things in common and to abolish all private ownership, I was appointed to investigate the matter. As a result of my first visit to the Tintic Stake with this as one of my appointed duties, I reported the facts as I found them, which were briefly these: That Moses Gudmundson, who was the leader and dominating figure in the movement, denied all intention of going ahead of the Church, specifically in the matter of attempting to start a colony according to the United Order plan; that I did not believe his protestations, but on the
other hand was convinced that the people of West Tintic, then organized into an independent branch in the Tintic Stake, were being led by an evil influence. Many other investigations have followed; and we have found to our sorrow that what we saw as the inevitable development of evil unless the people placed themselves in strict harmony with the order and government of the Church, had become a reality, namely, erotic ideas and practises concerning the marital state and the sexual relation. The best I can say of the people is that they have become fanatical through the power of evil. They have made sacrifice their hobby. The eating of meat, the taking of animal life even to provide food, and many other practises common with other people have been forbidden there; while long fasts and particularly the sacrificing of comforts and wholesome desires have been held up as ideals. Now they have reached the abominable status of men sacrificing their wives to other men; and by this means
they have put themselves under the laws of Church discipline and have made themselves subject to the punishment provided for by the law of the land. The present state is one of abominable immorality. Some of the women, notably the wife of Moses Gudmundson, and the wife of Gerald Lowry, withdrew promptly from the colony rather than countenance in any degree these ungodly practices. I believe that the judgment of the High Council in these cases is just; and that others than those already tried are involved.
[James E. Talmage, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
115 years ago today - Feb 21, 1911
[George F. Richards]
The extent to which evolution and higher criticism is gaining ground among our school teachers is something alarming. The effects of such teachings in the B[righam]. Y[oung]. U[niversity]. are indeed alarming. These style themselves the progressive element. There are those making up the conservative element and then the orthodox Mormons.
[George F. Richards, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
The extent to which evolution and higher criticism is gaining ground among our school teachers is something alarming. The effects of such teachings in the B[righam]. Y[oung]. U[niversity]. are indeed alarming. These style themselves the progressive element. There are those making up the conservative element and then the orthodox Mormons.
[George F. Richards, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
120 years ago today - Feb 21, 1906
Joseph W. Summerhays performs ceremony marrying eighteen-year-old Athelia Voila Call to thirty-two-year-old William Galley Sears (whose first wife is unable to conceive) as his second living wife. When questioned by the Quorum of Twelve Summerhays insists that he had permission from President Joseph F. Smith. Smith denies this to Reed Smoot, Apostle and U.S. Senator. Summerhays is released from all church positions but is neither disfellowshipped nor excommunicated. In Washington D.C. Senator Albert J. Hopkins of Illinois tells LDS Apostle John Henry Smith that "we [the church] should do something with our recalcitrant Elders." This refers to Apostles John W. Taylor and Matthias F. Cowley of whom it is known that they have performed post-manifesto plural marriages. Taylor and Cowley are dropped from the Quorum of Twelve two weeks later.
125 years ago today - Feb 21, 1901 (Thursday)
The Utah legislature passed an anti-vaccination bill over the governor's veto.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
125 years ago today - Feb. 21st, 1901
[Brigham Young Jr.]
Petition had some circulation asking my wife to resign Presidency of M.I.A. I advised her to resign, which she did.
[Diary of Apostle Brigham Young Jr., http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
Petition had some circulation asking my wife to resign Presidency of M.I.A. I advised her to resign, which she did.
[Diary of Apostle Brigham Young Jr., http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
185 years ago today - about Feb 21, 1841
Joseph Taylor remembers that Joseph Smith prophesied to his worried mother that her son John would safely return from jail within a week after having been imprisoned in Missouri for six months; he returned six days later.
[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]
190 years ago today - 1836: 21 February
[Patriarchal Blessing]
Caroline Crosby. (Given by Joseph Smith, Sen.)
"... thou also shalt see thy Redeemer come in the clouds of heaven ... Angels shall minister unto thee. And thy husband shall receive strength from thy prayers when he is absent from thee. And you shall know each others state by the Spirit when in far distant lands, and be comforted.
Thou shalt receive an inheritance in Zion, for thee and thy children. See the glory of God fill the house. Even the glory of the kingdom of heaven. And if thou desirest thou shalt bid the grave adieu, and never sleep in the dust, but rise to meet thy Redeemer at His coming
Note: After the blessings, she wrote: "The Patriarch conversed with us sometime, told us we had come together right. And when we told him our ages, and places of birth, he observed--that he thought we were both born under one planet. But merely by way of merriment. Mother Smith was in the room. She also added her blessing, or confirmed what we had already received."
[From a transcript; original in the Caroline Barnes Crosby Journal and Autobiography, 1807-82; fd 1, pg. 16, Utah State Historical Society Archives, in Selected LDS Patriarchal Blessings, New Mormon Studies CD ROM, Signature Book, 2009, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
Caroline Crosby. (Given by Joseph Smith, Sen.)
"... thou also shalt see thy Redeemer come in the clouds of heaven ... Angels shall minister unto thee. And thy husband shall receive strength from thy prayers when he is absent from thee. And you shall know each others state by the Spirit when in far distant lands, and be comforted.
Thou shalt receive an inheritance in Zion, for thee and thy children. See the glory of God fill the house. Even the glory of the kingdom of heaven. And if thou desirest thou shalt bid the grave adieu, and never sleep in the dust, but rise to meet thy Redeemer at His coming
Note: After the blessings, she wrote: "The Patriarch conversed with us sometime, told us we had come together right. And when we told him our ages, and places of birth, he observed--that he thought we were both born under one planet. But merely by way of merriment. Mother Smith was in the room. She also added her blessing, or confirmed what we had already received."
[From a transcript; original in the Caroline Barnes Crosby Journal and Autobiography, 1807-82; fd 1, pg. 16, Utah State Historical Society Archives, in Selected LDS Patriarchal Blessings, New Mormon Studies CD ROM, Signature Book, 2009, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
190 years ago today - 1836: 21 February
[Patriarchal Blessing]
Jonathan Crosby Jr. (Given by Joseph Smith, Sen.)
"...Thou shalt ... have power over the winds and waves. Be wafted from place to place, by the power of God. Be caught up to the third heavens, and behold unspeakable things, whether in the body or out. Thou shalt see thy Redeemer in the flesh, and know that he lives. Angels shall minister unto thee, and protect thee from thine enemies, so that none shall be able to take thy life. And when thy mission is full here, thou shalt visit other worlds, and remain a Priest in eternity.
Thou shalt stand upon the earth till the Redeemer comes, See the end of this generation, and when the heavens rend, thou shalt rise and meet thy God in the air. And thy thousands shall be with thee. Thy family also, and thy posterity also. ... And I seal thee up unto eternal life...
[From a transcript; original in the Caroline Barnes Crosby Journal and Autobiography, 1807-82; Fd. 1, pg. 16, Utah State Historical Society Archives, in Selected LDS Patriarchal Blessings, New Mormon Studies CD ROM, Signature Book, 2009, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
Jonathan Crosby Jr. (Given by Joseph Smith, Sen.)
"...Thou shalt ... have power over the winds and waves. Be wafted from place to place, by the power of God. Be caught up to the third heavens, and behold unspeakable things, whether in the body or out. Thou shalt see thy Redeemer in the flesh, and know that he lives. Angels shall minister unto thee, and protect thee from thine enemies, so that none shall be able to take thy life. And when thy mission is full here, thou shalt visit other worlds, and remain a Priest in eternity.
Thou shalt stand upon the earth till the Redeemer comes, See the end of this generation, and when the heavens rend, thou shalt rise and meet thy God in the air. And thy thousands shall be with thee. Thy family also, and thy posterity also. ... And I seal thee up unto eternal life...
[From a transcript; original in the Caroline Barnes Crosby Journal and Autobiography, 1807-82; Fd. 1, pg. 16, Utah State Historical Society Archives, in Selected LDS Patriarchal Blessings, New Mormon Studies CD ROM, Signature Book, 2009, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
195 years ago today - 1831 Feb 21
Martin Harris's note to Grandin to pay for BoM printing due
[https://docs.google.com/document/d/10ttN3vOzf2UcVhruCrvDf9pF27T0o0PP0Xj1X98tKBc/edit?fbclid=IwAR3HXLgL-X-M_c5LT2W-_F7AYqsqqaQ0yIhfNuyeFsX85irSPuEO6_Q993A]
[https://docs.google.com/document/d/10ttN3vOzf2UcVhruCrvDf9pF27T0o0PP0Xj1X98tKBc/edit?fbclid=IwAR3HXLgL-X-M_c5LT2W-_F7AYqsqqaQ0yIhfNuyeFsX85irSPuEO6_Q993A]
50 years ago today - Feb 20, 1976
Thomas Stuart Ferguson writes "...you can't set Book of Mormon geography down anywhere - because it is fictional and will never meet the requirements of the dirt-archeology." Ferguson was a founder of the New World Archaeological Foundation at BYU in 1952 and participated in many archaeological digs in Central America searching for archaeological evidence of Book of Mormon peoples.
65 years ago today - Feb 20, 1961
President Clark ... is now a Director and Vice-Chairman of the Board of the following Church-controlled or interested corporations:
Beneficial Life
Radio service Corporation of Utah (Station KSL)
Utah Hotel Company
Utah-Idaho Sugar Company
Z.C.M.I.
Director and Vice-President of Zions Securities Corp.
Director-Emeritus-Equitable Life Assurance Society
Member of Board of Trustees: Herbert Hoover Foundation Theodore Roosevelt
Foundation
Director'American Peace Society.
[The Diaries of J. Reuben Clark, 1933-1961, Abridged, Digital Edition, Salt Lake City, Utah 2015]
Beneficial Life
Radio service Corporation of Utah (Station KSL)
Utah Hotel Company
Utah-Idaho Sugar Company
Z.C.M.I.
Director and Vice-President of Zions Securities Corp.
Director-Emeritus-Equitable Life Assurance Society
Member of Board of Trustees: Herbert Hoover Foundation Theodore Roosevelt
Foundation
Director'American Peace Society.
[The Diaries of J. Reuben Clark, 1933-1961, Abridged, Digital Edition, Salt Lake City, Utah 2015]
65 years ago today - Feb 20, 1961
A staff member of the Church Historian's office writes to Presiding Patriarch Eldred G. Smith that patriarchal blessings had been given through ten of the twelve tribes of Israel, the two not mentioned being the tribes of Issachar and Asher. And fifteen other lineages had been named in blessings, including that of Cain.
105 years ago today - Feb 20, 1921
[James E. Talmage]
Complaints of wicked and dangerous teachings and practises had been made against Moses S. Gudmundson, J. Elvan Houtz and others; and the Council of the Presidency and Twelve had directed that President Clawson and I be present at the trial. ... The testimony adduced proved conclusively that these men and other residents of the West Tintic branch had been so far misled as to disregard the sanctity of the marriage obligation, as administered in the Temples, and had adopted a system of 'wifesacrifice', whereby men were required to give up their wives to other men, and this under a diabolical misinterpretation of Scripture as to the law of sacrifice requiring one to give up all he has, even wife and children.
[James E. Talmage, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
Complaints of wicked and dangerous teachings and practises had been made against Moses S. Gudmundson, J. Elvan Houtz and others; and the Council of the Presidency and Twelve had directed that President Clawson and I be present at the trial. ... The testimony adduced proved conclusively that these men and other residents of the West Tintic branch had been so far misled as to disregard the sanctity of the marriage obligation, as administered in the Temples, and had adopted a system of 'wifesacrifice', whereby men were required to give up their wives to other men, and this under a diabolical misinterpretation of Scripture as to the law of sacrifice requiring one to give up all he has, even wife and children.
[James E. Talmage, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
115 years ago today - Feb 20, 1911
The BYU Board of Trustees meets. The board, presided over by LDS church president Joseph F. Smith, "agreed that the Presidency of the Faculty should Consider the Cases of the teacher[s] in the university Henry and Jos. Peterson and R. V. Chamberlain." The three professors, who refused to change their teaching on evolution, were either fired or resigned under pressure.
120 years ago today - Feb 20, 1906
[John Henry Smith to George Alber Smith]
Since writing a few lines to you Bro[ther]. [Reed] Smoot has introduced me to some of my old friends and I have had some very pleasant conversations. They all seem to feel that we must do something to convince the public and also the Senators that we are not coniving in these later cases [of plural marriages]. One man [i.e., Theodore Roosevelt] told me that [John W.] Taylor [Matthias F.] Cowley and [Joseph M.] Tanner must be disciplined by the Church, not cast out but drooped from their positions, and that it must be done at a conference.
[John Henry Smith, Letter to George Albert Smith, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
Since writing a few lines to you Bro[ther]. [Reed] Smoot has introduced me to some of my old friends and I have had some very pleasant conversations. They all seem to feel that we must do something to convince the public and also the Senators that we are not coniving in these later cases [of plural marriages]. One man [i.e., Theodore Roosevelt] told me that [John W.] Taylor [Matthias F.] Cowley and [Joseph M.] Tanner must be disciplined by the Church, not cast out but drooped from their positions, and that it must be done at a conference.
[John Henry Smith, Letter to George Albert Smith, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
120 years ago today - Tuesday, Feb 20, 1906
[Apostle John Henry Smith]
I had breakfast with Vice President [Charles W.] Fairbanks. ... Our meal consisted of Baked apples & cream, corn cake and butter, Hominy & Cream, Fried Eggs and French fried Potatoes and Coffee.
[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]
I had breakfast with Vice President [Charles W.] Fairbanks. ... Our meal consisted of Baked apples & cream, corn cake and butter, Hominy & Cream, Fried Eggs and French fried Potatoes and Coffee.
[Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith]
130 years ago today - Feb 20, 1896
Elders Reed Smoot and B[enjamin]. Cluff, Jr., accompanied by brother Willard Young and sister Susa Young Gates, called on the First Presidency, who were all at the office, and expressed satisfaction at the proposition for the B[righam]. Y[oung]. Academy to pass into the hands of the Church. Brother Young and sister Gates thought that the first thing to do was to obtain legal advice in reference to the transfer, and that this should be done before consulting the heirs of the estate of Pres[iden]t. [Brigham] Young. Brothers Cluff and Smoot were advised to consult attorneys in reference to making the change. It was agreed that there would be no necessity to change the name of the Institution, and the general opinion was that by the Church assuming control of the Academy and building up a strong Normal Department, the intention of the late Pres[iden]t. Young in reference to the Academy would be carried out with greater efficiency than ever.
[Journal History, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
[Journal History, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
175 years ago today - Feb 20, 1851
[Wilford Woodruff]
20th I spent the day in Council. Had a good time. Was Anointed & Blessed under the Hands of President Young.
[Endowment ceremony is again administered on regular basis since coming west, in such places as Brigham Young's office and upper room of Council House.]
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies; The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn]
20th I spent the day in Council. Had a good time. Was Anointed & Blessed under the Hands of President Young.
[Endowment ceremony is again administered on regular basis since coming west, in such places as Brigham Young's office and upper room of Council House.]
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies; The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn]
185 years ago today - Feb 20, 1841
The court-martial of the Nauvoo Legion, by a unanimous vote, adopts a resolution: "That no person whatever, residing within the limits of the City of Nauvoo, between the ages of 18 and 45 years, excepting such as are exempted by the laws of the United States, shall be exempt from military duty, unless exempted by a special act of this court; and the fines for neglecting or refusing to appear on the days of general parade were fixed at the following rates: for generals, $25; colonels, $20; captains, $15; lieutenants, $10; and musicians and privates, $5; and for company parade at the following rates-for commissioned officers, $5; noncommissioned officers, $3; musicians and privates, $2. The 1st and 6th of Apr, and the 3rd of Jul, were fixed upon as days for general parade for this year."
190 years ago today - Feb 20, 1836
Patriarchal Blessing of Julian Moses given by Joseph Smith, Sr. ... thou shalt not fall a prey to that monster that fell from his high standing, before the most high: ... thou shalt have visions and shalt gaze upon the heavens, and the glories thereof, and thou shalt arise up to meet Christ in the air, while the earth shall reel to and fro and be cleansed and prepared for the saints ...
[Patriarchal Blessing Book 1:53-54, in Early Patriarchal Blessings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Joseph Smith Sr. (Author), H. Michael Marquardt (Editor), http://amzn.to/rCBHVe]
[Patriarchal Blessing Book 1:53-54, in Early Patriarchal Blessings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Joseph Smith Sr. (Author), H. Michael Marquardt (Editor), http://amzn.to/rCBHVe]
35 years ago today - Feb 19, 1991
LDS publisher Bookcraft sends a memo to dealers who sell their books: "In view of the recent stories about Elder Paul H. Dunn and the accuracy of his books we thought it might be helpful if we provided you with some facts. We are enclosing with this letter a copy of Elder Dunn's official statement which was released after the initial story was printed. We believe this will help clarify the situation. We want to also remind you that just because something is printed in the newspaper or seen on television does not make it necessarily true. We believe that things Elder Dunn said to the Arizona Republic reporter were taken out of context and used in a way to change his original meanings. We know also that the original story and subsequent coverage have been deliberately slanted to hurt Elder Dunn and the Church. We want to call attention to the fact that after all the 'investigation,' these reports are dealing with stories that are a minuscule part of elder Dunn's writings. Bookcraft
has been and is still proud to be associated with this fine man and outstanding teacher. We intend to continue publishing his books, and there is absolutely no question of any of his books being recalled."
has been and is still proud to be associated with this fine man and outstanding teacher. We intend to continue publishing his books, and there is absolutely no question of any of his books being recalled."
45 years ago today - Feb 19, 1981
Apostle Bruce R. McConkie writes to BYU professor Eugene England: "Yes, President [Brigham Young] did teach that Adam was the father of our spirits, and all the related things that the cultists ascribe to him. This, however, is not true [doctrine]. He expressed views that are out of harmony with the gospel." McConkie admonishes England: "It is my province to teach to the Church what the doctrine is. It is your province to echo what I say or to remain silent."
60 years ago today - Feb 19, 1966
Ezra Taft Benson avoided the issue of American Opinion being a John Birch Society publication, nor did McKay bring it up. Instead, he repeated that "the magazine is considered a high-type magazine" on whose cover the pictures of Senator Barry Goldwater, J. Edgar Hoover, and other prominent men had appeared. Furthermore, he reminded McKay that he had given his word on the matter. Although McKay had been adamant only two days before, he now decided "that they had better go ahead with it since I had given my permission for this to be done." McKay did not tell any of his other associates that he had reversed field on the issue.
[David O. McKay diary as referenced in Gregory A. Prince and Wm. Robert Write, David O. McKay and the Rise of Modern Mormonism. Salt Lake City: University of Utah Press (2005)]
[David O. McKay diary as referenced in Gregory A. Prince and Wm. Robert Write, David O. McKay and the Rise of Modern Mormonism. Salt Lake City: University of Utah Press (2005)]
75 years ago today - Feb 19, 1951
[Letter to Bishops from First Presidency]
Dear Brethren:
It is unanimously recommended by the Presiding Bishopric, the Presidency of the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association, and the Advisors to the General Mutual Improvement Board that the close cooperation of the Bishoprics of Wards, the Sunday School and the Mutual Improvement Association leaders of the Girls' Program be continued as heretofore, even though the Girls' Program is now placed under the direct supervision of the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association.
... it seems not only advisable but essential that the Bishopric of each Ward hold at least two meetings each month-one with the officers and teachers of the Aaronic Priesthood, and another with the officers and teachers of the girls of corresponding age. We are informed that the meeting with the Aaronic Priesthood is already being held.
We now recommend that the Bishopric of each Ward arrange to hold a monthly meeting with the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association Presidency, and attendance secretary, Sunday School secretary, and the class leaders of the Bee Hive, Mia Maid and Junior Cleaner groups....
[1951-February 19-Original circular letter, L.D.S. Church, in Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
Dear Brethren:
It is unanimously recommended by the Presiding Bishopric, the Presidency of the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association, and the Advisors to the General Mutual Improvement Board that the close cooperation of the Bishoprics of Wards, the Sunday School and the Mutual Improvement Association leaders of the Girls' Program be continued as heretofore, even though the Girls' Program is now placed under the direct supervision of the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association.
... it seems not only advisable but essential that the Bishopric of each Ward hold at least two meetings each month-one with the officers and teachers of the Aaronic Priesthood, and another with the officers and teachers of the girls of corresponding age. We are informed that the meeting with the Aaronic Priesthood is already being held.
We now recommend that the Bishopric of each Ward arrange to hold a monthly meeting with the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association Presidency, and attendance secretary, Sunday School secretary, and the class leaders of the Bee Hive, Mia Maid and Junior Cleaner groups....
[1951-February 19-Original circular letter, L.D.S. Church, in Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
130 years ago today - Feb 19, 1896
[J. Golden Kimball]
Attended meeting of 1st Council [of the Seventy] held at Temple. ... Bro[ther] [B. H.] Roberts wrote that he would cancell all his appointments and not meet with council again until matters, or difficulties are arranged. Talked some with Elders Wells & Fjeldsted about Roberts case and wondered if we could do him any good.
[J. Golden Kimball, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
Attended meeting of 1st Council [of the Seventy] held at Temple. ... Bro[ther] [B. H.] Roberts wrote that he would cancell all his appointments and not meet with council again until matters, or difficulties are arranged. Talked some with Elders Wells & Fjeldsted about Roberts case and wondered if we could do him any good.
[J. Golden Kimball, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
135 years ago today - Feb 19, 1891
A delegation of Mormon young women and plural wives attends the first meeting of the National Council of Women, which accepts the Relief Society as a charter member.
[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 - Feb 19, 1851
[Lorenzo Brown]
Attended meeting this evening at Israel Hoits good meeting & a good deal of talking in tongues because they could not talk in their own
[Journal of Lorenzo Brown: 1823-1900]
Attended meeting this evening at Israel Hoits good meeting & a good deal of talking in tongues because they could not talk in their own
[Journal of Lorenzo Brown: 1823-1900]
180 years ago today - Thursday, Feb 19, 1846.
[First snowstorm after pioneers leave Nauvoo] The wind blew steadily from the northwest, accompanied by snow which fell to the depth of 7 or 8 inches, but much of it thawed as it fell. The storm was unceasing and there was very little passing in or out of camp. The evening was very cold, which caused much suffering in the camp for there were many who had no tents or any comfortable place to lodge.
[Apostle Willard Richards Journal]
[Apostle Willard Richards Journal]
190 years ago today - Feb 19, 1836
Joseph Smith "conversed with Mr. [Joshua] Seixas [the Hebrew teacher] upon the subject of religion, . . ." Joseph writes in his diary, "He listened with attention and appeared interested with my remarks. I believe the Lord is striving with him by his Holy Spirit and that he will eventually embrace the new and everlasting covenant, for he is a chosen vessel unto the Lord to do his people good. But I forbear lest I get to prophesying upon his head."
60 years ago today - Feb 18, 1966
[David O. McKay] Apostle Mark E. Petersen stated that the Church Information Service had received a bill for $25 for a color photograph of McKay for the cover o f American Opinion, "which is the John Birch Society organ…. Elder Petersen said that if my picture is so published it will certainly look as though the Church is endorsing the John Birch Society. ... I said that my picture should not appear on this magazine; that the Church has nothing to do with the John Birch Society. I authorized Brother Petersen to tell Brother Benson that he had brought this matter to my attention, and had been told by me to stop the printing of my picture on this magazine; that I do not want it used in that way. I said to Brother Petersen, "You are ordered in the presence of these men to stop it." I further said that I do not want to have anything to do with the John Birch Society; that the Church has had nothing to do with it in the past, and that so far as Brother Benson is concerned, I do not
think we would hear anything more about it.
[David O. McKay diary as referenced in Gregory A. Prince and Wm. Robert Write, David O. McKay and the Rise of Modern Mormonism. Salt Lake City: University of Utah Press (2005)]
think we would hear anything more about it.
[David O. McKay diary as referenced in Gregory A. Prince and Wm. Robert Write, David O. McKay and the Rise of Modern Mormonism. Salt Lake City: University of Utah Press (2005)]
115 years ago today - Feb 18, 1911
Former apostle John W. Taylor comes into Apostle John Henry Smith's office "very much angered at president Francis M. Lyman and the Twelve. . . . He demanded an Interview with Pres[iden]t Joseph F. [Smith] and me. He was quite wild. He staid over two hours. . . . He demanded that President J. F. Smith call the Counsel of fifty to protect him from the Twelve in his violations of the law [for polygamy]." On Mar 28, 1911 John W. Taylor is excommunicated. At his excommunication trial (conducted by the Quorum of Twelve) he asks that President Joseph F. Smith be called on his behalf but the Quorum refuses.
135 years ago today - Feb 18, 1891
Brothers Willard and Richard W. Young called and submitted a draft of a deed for the proposed university. We approved of it. There was some discussion concerning the name. They both favored calling the university 'Young University'. President [Wilford] Woodruff, Brother [Francis M.] Lyman and myself thought that would be a very good name. Brothers Lorenzo Snow and Jos[eph]. F. Smith did not seem to favor that name. They thought 'Brigham Young University' would be better. Brother [Heber J.] Grant did not express himself fully, though I rather think he favored the latter. The two points in my mind which made me favor calling it the 'Young University' are that the heirs seem to desire that name, and the name 'Brigham Young' is applied already to the college at Logan [Utah] and the academy at Provo [Utah], and the tendency would be instead of calling it 'Brigham Young University,' to call it the B.Y. University.
[George Q. Cannon, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
[George Q. Cannon, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
150 years ago today - Feb 18, 1876
Sodomy or "crime against nature" becomes illegal in Utah Territory. Sodomy was defined as anal intercourse, a felony punishable by 5 years in prison. In 1907 the law changed the jail time to 23 years imprisonment. In 1923 hetero/homosexual oral sex added to sodomy statute. In 1953, sodomy is reduced from a felony to a class B misdemeanor.
[Timeline of Mormon Thinking About Homosexuality, http://rationalfaiths.com/timeline-of-mormon-thinking-about-homosexuality/]
[Timeline of Mormon Thinking About Homosexuality, http://rationalfaiths.com/timeline-of-mormon-thinking-about-homosexuality/]
175 years ago today - Feb 18, 1851
[Hosea Stout]
Went to se Major painting Parleys family group which looked splendid[.] It consisted of 7 wives & children
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
Went to se Major painting Parleys family group which looked splendid[.] It consisted of 7 wives & children
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
180 years ago today - Feb 18, 1846
Brigham Young organizes the pioneer's camp across the river from Nauvoo: "if the brethren could not bring their minds to perfect order, they had better leave the camp and I would have no feelings against them; that after dark no man must leave camp without the countersign, nor approach the guard abruptly; that every family must call on the Lord night and morning at every tent or wagon and we shall have no confidence in the man who does not." A lost and found is set up and a system of colored flags is announced to call various leaders to come for instructions and two cannons are brought into camp. Afterwards Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball and others "returned to Nauvoo . . . and met for prayer in the Temple."
180 years ago today - Feb 18, 1846
An article appears in the WARSAW SIGNAL concerning the endowment ceremony introduced in the Nauvoo Temple two months previously and says that participants in the endowment are "in a state of nudity throughout the ceremony, . . ." Two months later, in the Apr 15, 1846, issue, a woman who signs her name "Emeline" writes a response. Although "Emeline" admits that she is breaking oaths and covenants she has made in the temple by revealing the contents of the ritual, she feels justified because church authorities were "the most debased wretches" and the that endowment was "nothing less than fearful blasphemy." Nevertheless, she denies that the ceremony takes place in a state of nudity, except for an initial robing ceremony during which only women were present and states that no indecency took place between men and women since they are admitted separately. Although she admits that she did not remember many of the details of the ceremony, she describes the rooms, some of the characters,
as well as the fact that there were oaths, obligations, and penalties. February 18, 1850. While her husband, William Clayton plays with the band for a dancing party, his youngest wife Diantha, at her husband's suggestion, dances with a certain Mr. Grist, a gentile. The band, however, plays a waltz, and the sensibilities of some good Saints are shocked to see the wife of William Clayton waltzing with a gentile. News of this reaches top authorities and two days later, after Clayton has gone to work, an apostle and another elder arrive at his home and confront Diantha. They accuse her of three serious errors unbefitting a Latter-day Saint: (1) waltzing with a gentile, (2) "harboring and encouraging" gentiles in her home during the past winter," and (3) "slandering the authorities of the church to the Gentiles." That evening Clayton writes to Brigham Young: "The peace of my family is in a great degree destroyed," for the priesthood leaders had given his young wife a "very severe
chastisement."
as well as the fact that there were oaths, obligations, and penalties. February 18, 1850. While her husband, William Clayton plays with the band for a dancing party, his youngest wife Diantha, at her husband's suggestion, dances with a certain Mr. Grist, a gentile. The band, however, plays a waltz, and the sensibilities of some good Saints are shocked to see the wife of William Clayton waltzing with a gentile. News of this reaches top authorities and two days later, after Clayton has gone to work, an apostle and another elder arrive at his home and confront Diantha. They accuse her of three serious errors unbefitting a Latter-day Saint: (1) waltzing with a gentile, (2) "harboring and encouraging" gentiles in her home during the past winter," and (3) "slandering the authorities of the church to the Gentiles." That evening Clayton writes to Brigham Young: "The peace of my family is in a great degree destroyed," for the priesthood leaders had given his young wife a "very severe
chastisement."
185 years ago today - Feb 18, 1841
In England Wilford Woodruff receives a letter from his wife: "It was truly a feast to me to hear from my Dear wife [and] child . . . after being separated nearly two years from them."
45 years ago today - Feb 17, 1981-Tuesday
[Leonard Arrington]
I learned that some time ago when Ed Lyon was in Nauvoo, Elder [Howard W.] Hunter and his family came there on a Church history trip. They would read about each area as they came to it, in their hotel room at night. In the course of Ed's comments to them as they were in Nauvoo, he told them some things that are not "traditional" history as it is generally taught. One of Elder Hunter's sons said, "Dad, why are we doing this and not telling people the truth? Why is our history written like that?" Elder Hunter is reported to have responded that he regretted that it was, and that he sincerely hoped that we would do better in the future.
[Confessions of a Mormon historian : the diaries of Leonard J. Arrington, 1971-1997, Gary James Bergera, editor, Signature Books, 2018]
I learned that some time ago when Ed Lyon was in Nauvoo, Elder [Howard W.] Hunter and his family came there on a Church history trip. They would read about each area as they came to it, in their hotel room at night. In the course of Ed's comments to them as they were in Nauvoo, he told them some things that are not "traditional" history as it is generally taught. One of Elder Hunter's sons said, "Dad, why are we doing this and not telling people the truth? Why is our history written like that?" Elder Hunter is reported to have responded that he regretted that it was, and that he sincerely hoped that we would do better in the future.
[Confessions of a Mormon historian : the diaries of Leonard J. Arrington, 1971-1997, Gary James Bergera, editor, Signature Books, 2018]
140 years ago today - Feb 17, 1886
[Wilford Woodruff]
My abode was visited to day by 2 spotter. They did not finally search the House But they made a great Deal of Enquiry about the House but finally went off. <I was hid.>
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
My abode was visited to day by 2 spotter. They did not finally search the House But they made a great Deal of Enquiry about the House but finally went off. <I was hid.>
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
140 years ago today - Feb 17, 1886
George Q. Cannon, arrested for polygamy, is released on $45,000 bail. Apostles Heber J. Grant, John W. Taylor, Franklin D. Richards and John Henry Smith visit him at his home and "found him badly bruised but feeling cheerful." Cannon was "badly bruised" from jumping from a moving train in an escape attempt after being arrested.
170 years ago today - Feb 17, 1856
Brigham Young "asked Elder Orson Pratt what He thought of his preaching that intelligent beings would continue to learn to all Eternity. O. Pratt said that He believed the Gods had a knowledge at the present time of every thing that ever did exist to the endless ages of all Eternity. He believed it as much as any truth that he had ever learned in or out of this Church. President Young remarked that he had never learned that principle in the church for it was not taught in the Church for it was not true. It was fals[e] doctrin[e] For the Gods and all intelligent Beings would never cease to learn except it was the Sons of perdition they would continue to decrease until they became dissolved back into their native Element & lost their Identity." This is only one point of doctrine over which Brigham Young and Orson Pratt differed throughout their lives. In 1980, Apostle Bruce R. McConkie calls Brigham Young's doctrine that God continues to learn a "deadly heresy" and says: "[t]his is
false-utterly, totally, and completely. There is not one sliver of truth in it."
false-utterly, totally, and completely. There is not one sliver of truth in it."
170 years ago today - Feb 17, 1856
Prest Young said: if a man has many visions he is more liable to be overcome by the devil than the man that has no visions.... When this Church goes to Jackson Co. they will go from the West towards the East and not go through South America or Texas as many think. But before we go there we must live in a desolate place where gentiles can't, till we get a large company. When people leave a gathering place of the Saints to find a good country where they can live easy, they will apostatize or be driven from it. -- SLC Tabernacle
[John Pulsipher Journal, BYU. 38, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
[John Pulsipher Journal, BYU. 38, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
170 years ago today - Feb 17, 1856
[Brigham Young]
When a person apostatizes, he continues to decrease until they are wilted out to nothing - My spirit in me was not a particle contaminated by the fall of Adam but in consequence of being connected with the body it must continue until it is released - The devil had not a particle of power over the spirit but if I die in my sins then he continues his power - he will destroy sin and he that hath the power of it - he will decompose it into element but not annihilated - the individuality is annihilated - The earth and the air is full of the properties of the grape. -- Salt Lake City
[Leonard J. Arrington Papers, Special Collections, Merrill-Cazier Library, Utah State University, Logan. (A reference reading LJA 12-55-5, 10, means LJA Series 12, Box 55, Folder 5, page 10.) 9-13-4, 169, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
When a person apostatizes, he continues to decrease until they are wilted out to nothing - My spirit in me was not a particle contaminated by the fall of Adam but in consequence of being connected with the body it must continue until it is released - The devil had not a particle of power over the spirit but if I die in my sins then he continues his power - he will destroy sin and he that hath the power of it - he will decompose it into element but not annihilated - the individuality is annihilated - The earth and the air is full of the properties of the grape. -- Salt Lake City
[Leonard J. Arrington Papers, Special Collections, Merrill-Cazier Library, Utah State University, Logan. (A reference reading LJA 12-55-5, 10, means LJA Series 12, Box 55, Folder 5, page 10.) 9-13-4, 169, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
180 years ago today - Feb 17, 1846
[Brigham Young] instructed the brethren to ... never to borrow without asking leave and then be sure and return the same lest your brother be vexed with you and in his anger curse you and then you will be cursed according to the power of the priesthood that a brother professes, and evil will come upon you; that all dogs in the camp should be killed if the owners would not tie them; that any man who would keep a horse in camp that had distemper should forfeit all his horses; ... He then called upon all who wanted to go with the camp to raise their right hand, and all hands were up.
[Apostle Willard Richards Journal]
[Apostle Willard Richards Journal]
185 years ago today - Feb 17, 1841
[Heber C. Kimball]
And it come to pass that we went to Barttalomy [St. Bartholomew] Hospital. We went threw one room whare we saw as menny as 20 bodies of men and wimmen Laid in diffrent Situations under diffrent stats [states] of decetion [dissection], some just brought in with thare mouths soad [sewed] up. I must confess It gave wonderfull feelings.
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
And it come to pass that we went to Barttalomy [St. Bartholomew] Hospital. We went threw one room whare we saw as menny as 20 bodies of men and wimmen Laid in diffrent Situations under diffrent stats [states] of decetion [dissection], some just brought in with thare mouths soad [sewed] up. I must confess It gave wonderfull feelings.
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
190 years ago today - 17 February 1836 - Wednesday
Wednesday the 17th attend[ed] the school and read and translated with my class as usual, and my soul delights in reading the word of the Lord in the original, and I am determined to persue the study of languages untill I shall become master of them, if I am permitted to live long enough, at any rate so long as I do live I am determined to make this my object, and with the blessing of God I shall succe[e]d to my sattisfaction,- this evening Elder Joseph Coe called to make some arangements about the Egyptian records and the mummies, he proposes to hire a room at J[ohn] Johnson s Inn and exibit them there from day to day at certain hours, that some benefit may be derived from them- I complied with his request, and only observed that they must be managed with prudence and care especially the manuscripts [[Seven months earlier, Coe loaned eight hundred dollars to help purchase the mummies and papyri, expecting to be quickly repaid from the sales of JS's translation of the papyri. With
the translation still unpublished, Coe desired to recoup his losses by exhibiting the mummies and papyri.]]
[Joseph Smith, "Sketch Book for the use of Joseph Smith, jr.," Journal, Sept. 1835-Apr. 1836]
the translation still unpublished, Coe desired to recoup his losses by exhibiting the mummies and papyri.]]
[Joseph Smith, "Sketch Book for the use of Joseph Smith, jr.," Journal, Sept. 1835-Apr. 1836]
20 years ago today - Feb 16, 2006
L A Times front page story "Bedrock of a Faith is Jolted" on fact that DNA studies show no Hebrew ancestry to Native Americans.
30 years ago today - Feb 16, 1996
[Same-Sex Marriage]
Rex E. Lee, issues a position paper arguing for the limitation of marriage to opposite-sex partners.
[Crapo, Richley, Chronology Of Mormon / LDS Involvement In Same-Sex Marriage Politics http://www.mormonsocialscience.org/?q=node/59]
Rex E. Lee, issues a position paper arguing for the limitation of marriage to opposite-sex partners.
[Crapo, Richley, Chronology Of Mormon / LDS Involvement In Same-Sex Marriage Politics http://www.mormonsocialscience.org/?q=node/59]
35 years ago today - Feb 16, 1991
Arizona Republic' publishes an analysis of decades of talks by Seventy's president Paul H. Dunn who has misrepresented his military and baseball careers in order to tell "faith-promoting" stories to LDS youth and young adults. This is based on the research of investigative reporter Lynn Packer, whose teaching employment is terminated at BYU after the story's publication. In an interview Dunn defends himself by saying that parables of Jesus are not literally true either. On 23 Oct. Dunn writes an "Open Letter to the Members of the Church," confessing his "inaccurate" sermons and "other activities inconsistent with the high and sacred office which I have held." He acknowledges that general authorities "have censured me and placed a heavy penalty upon me." In addition to receiving emeritus status in 1989, five years before its normal implementation at age seventy, the unnamed "heavy penalty" allegedly now includes Dunn's loss of LDS privileges. Without formal disfellowshipment this
would be similar to the 1911 decision concerning Matthias F. Cowley, who also had been previously released as a general authority before his added punishment.
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
would be similar to the 1911 decision concerning Matthias F. Cowley, who also had been previously released as a general authority before his added punishment.
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
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