45 years ago today - Nov 30, 1967

* I [Mark Garff] asked the President to listen me out and see if I was foolish in what I was suggesting. He said he would be glad to listen and I told him I had just returned from the Far East; this is about the only time I have left my desk for the two and [a] half years I have been working for President [David O.] McKay and in my mind I tried to conceive a plan whereby we could bring Temple work to our people. I said cautiously to President McKay: "If you think I am out of bounds I want you to tell me, but I am proposing to you now, that The Church obtain or build a ship sufficient in size to run the oceans and we equip this ship as a temple ship; that we take the ship and outfit it as a temple, then take the ship into the ports and harbors where our people live. We could do this around the entire continent of South America, Europe, along the coast of China, Japan, Australia and even Africa if we wanted to.["] I was sure the cost would not amount to any more than what the cost of some of our temples has been. I suggested to the President that we do not have the money to build temples all over the world and it would be an impossibility because our funds are limited and if we followed this procedure we could get at least those who want their endowments done while they are still alive, we could move [people] to the ports where we would dock this ship; otherwise it would be impossible for them to have their own endowments and we might carry it even further than their own endowments and move on to doing work for the dead, making this a continuous tour of where there are people needing the blessing of the temple and the holy endowment. After I explained to the President my thinking he said to me: "That is not foolish thinking and I want you to pursue this thought and pursue the feasibility of it and make a report to me." He seemed to be greatly intrigued with the idea, he seemed to grasp it very quickly and thought it would be a good idea, so I am going to pursue it a little further as fast as my time will allow. [Minutes of a Meeting, Nov. 30, 1967; included in the David O. McKay diary on the same date ]

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

125 years ago today - Nov 30, 1887

Got up at half past 6 o'clock. After breakfast we all went to the [Logan] Temple. I was ordained an elder by Bro[ther] A. Peterson in behalf of my dead Father and got endowments for him and took my Mother through the veil and also stood proxy for my Father at the altar for my mother to be sealed to him; also took both of my wives through the veil; also my daughter, Marinda, and had our 4 old est children sealed to us. And my wives and I received our second anointings under the hands of President [Marriner W.] Merrill and Bro[th er] Moore. [Samuel Bateman diary, Nov. 30, 1887 , Perry Special Collections]

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

130 years ago today - Thursday, Nov 30, 1882

[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Liverpool

I sent a necktie to each of my wives.

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

165 years ago today - 1847 30 Nov.

Several apostles resist Young's renewed proposal to organize a First Presidency.

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

165 years ago today - Nov 30, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] The subject of Appointing three of the Twelve As the Presidency of the Church. Br Young said by persuing this course it would liberate the quorum of the Twelve that they might go to the Nations of the earth to preach the gospel. Many remarks were made upon the subject & council Adjourned.

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

60 years ago today - 1952. November 29

(John A. Widtsoe) : Died in Salt Lake City at age eighty; buried in the Salt Lake City Cemetery.

[Source: Van Wagoner, Richard and Walker, Steven C., A Book of Mormons, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

65 years ago today - Nov 29, 1947

The First Presidency announces to the Saints in North America that the regular December fast day will be dedicated to relieving the suffering of the people in Europe resulting from World War II. About $210,000 is collected and distributed to Europeans of all faiths by an agency not connected with the Church.

[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]

115 years ago today - Nov 29, 1897; Monday

The First Presidency were waited upon at their office this morning by Bro[ther]. J. E. King, a Cherokee Indian belonging to the Church, who had been visiting his tribe also the Otto Indians. He brought a walking stick as a present from chief White Horse of the Ottos to President [Wilford] Woodruff. It was made of chitin wood, with a round brass handle and carved by White Horse himself with figures of a turtle, elephant's head, buffalo head, dog's head, etc. Bro[ther]. King reported that he had baptized all of White Horse's band, also 86 Wahtangos in Oklahoma. The Ottos he said were on their way to Mexico, where they had bought lands, having sold their possessions because the Government officials required them to give up their plural wives. This they refused to do, and hence their migration.

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

135 years ago today - Nov 29, 1877

[John Nuttle Diary] [Thanksgiving Day] I attended at the Endowment House and assisted took the part of clothing Jehovah.

[Source: Diary Excerpts of L. John Nuttall, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

60 years ago today - Fri Nov 28, 1952

[David O. McKay Office Journal] Setting apart Bro. Ezra Taft Benson and blessing in his responsibilities as Secretary of Agriculture of the U.S.

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

170 years ago today - Nov 28, 1842

Nauvoo, Illinois. Joseph Smith held a trial at his house that lasted all day concerning the unequal distribution of provisions among the temple workers.

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

180 years ago today - Nov 28, 1832

[Joseph Smith Diary] November 28th [1832] This day I have [spent] in reading and writing. This Evening my mind is calm and serene for which I thank the Lord.

[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1832-34, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]

30 years ago today - Nov 27, 1982 - 2 December 1982

[1st Presidency Changes] Spencer W. Kimball Marion G. Romney Gordon B. Hinckley (Counselor) Death of N. Eldon Tanner

[Source: Wikipedia, First Presidency (LDS Church), http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_Presidency_(LDS_Church)#Chronology_of_the_First_Presidency]

45 years ago today - Nov 27,1967

[Utah] New York Metropolitan Museum of Art gives to LDS church the original Egyptian papyri upon which Joseph Smith based "Book of Abraham" in Pearl of Great Price. Scholars and church officials authenticate papyri as the same used by Smith. Apostle N. Eldon Tanner states the discovery of the papyri will finally prove Joseph Smith could translate ancient documents.

[Source: 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]

180 years ago today - 1832 27 Nov.

The first entry in Joseph Smith's daily diary (first person, in his own hand) reads: "Oh may God grant that I may be directed in all my thaughts [sic]. Oh bless try servent. Amen."

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

180 years ago today - Between Jul 20, 1832 and 27-Nov 1832

Joseph Smith writes (in a ledger) that when he was 16, the Lord appeared and said his sins were forgiven.

[Source: Tidd, N. R., "Mormon Chronology"]

180 years ago today - Nov 27, 1832

[D and C] Doctrine and Covenants 85: Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet, at Kirtland, Ohio, November 27, 1832. HC 1: 298-299. This section is an extract from a letter of the Prophet to W. W. Phelps, who was living in Independence, Missouri. It was given to answer questions about those saints who had moved to Zion, but who had not received their inheritances according to the established order in the Church.

1-5, Inheritances in Zion are to be received through consecration; 6-12, One mighty and strong shall give the saints their inheritance in Zion.

[Source: Doctrine and Covenants, http://amzn.to/DoctrineandCovenants]

115 years ago today - Nov 26, 1897; Friday

The First Presidency to-day appropriated the sum of $150 at the request of Elder F[erdinand]. F. Hintze for the reprinting of his tract, "An Invitation to the Kingdom of God", in the Armenian language.

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

170 years ago today - 1842 26 Nov.

Patriarch Hyrum Smith appoints a man to spy on suspected polygamists in order to accuse them before the Nauvoo high council. By May 1843 Kimball and Joseph Smith's private secretary would call this "a plot that is being laid to entrap the brethren of the secret priesthood."

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

170 years ago today - Nov 26, 1842

[Brigham Young] --26-- I was suddenly attacked with a slight fit of apoplexy. Next morning I felt quite comfortable; but in the evening, at the same hour that I had the fit the day before, I was attacked with the most violent fever I ever experienced. The Prophet Joseph and Elder Willard Richards visited and administered unto me; the Prophet prophesied that I should live and recover from my sickness. He sat by me for six hours, and directed my attendants what to do for me. In about thirty hours from the time of my being attacked by the fever, the skin began to peel from my body, and I was skinned all over. I desired to be baptized in the river, but it was not until the 14th day that Brother Joseph would give his consent for me to be showered with cold water, when my fever began to break, and it left me on the 18th day. I laid upon my back, and was not turned upon my side for eighteen days.

I laid in a log house, which was rather open; it was so very cold during my sickness, that Brother Isaac Decker, my attendant, froze his fingers and toes while fanning me, with boots, greatcoat and mittens on, and with a fire in the house from which I was shielded by a blanket.

When the fever left me on the 18th day, I was bolstered up in my chair, but was so near gone that I could not close my eyes, which were set in my head--my chin dropped down and my breath stopped. My wife, seeing my situation, threw some cold water in my face; that having no effect, she dashed a handful of strong camphor into my face and eyes, which I did not feel in the least, neither did I move a muscle. She then held my nostrils between her thumb and finger, and placing her mouth directly over mine, blew into my lungs until she filled them with air. This set my lungs in motion, and I again began to breathe. While this was going on I was perfectly conscious of all that was passing around me; my spirit was as vivid as it ever was in my life, but I had no feeling in my body.

[Source: Manuscript History of Brigham Young, 1801-1844, ed. Elden Jay Watson (Salt Lake City: Smith Secretarial Service, 1968).]

45 years ago today - Nov 25, 1967

Elder Spencer W. Kimball visits northern Brazil on a fact-finding assignment to determine where to expand or cut back missionary activity in the area. Within a year, a new mission is created, and later, as a result of President Kimball's revelation on priesthood, northern Brazil becomes one of the most successful missionary fields in the Church.

[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]

60 years ago today - Nov 25, 1952

Elder Ezra Taft Benson of the Quorum of the Twelve was chosen Secretary of Agriculture by Dwight D. Eisenhower, newly elected president of the United States. Elder Benson served in that capacity for eight years.

[Source: Church News: Historical Chronology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, http://www.ldschurchnews.com/articles/58765/Historical-chronology-of-The-Church-of-Jesus-Christ-of-Latter-day-Saints.html]

115 years ago today - Thursday, Nov 25, 1897

[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] [Thanksgiving]

I spent the day between my two homes or at my homes eating Turkey and visiting.

Sarah F. and I attended the opera in the evening.



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

130 years ago today - Nov 25, 1882

Horace S. Eldredge said he had asked of the Presidency certain questions which had not been answered. Among them was, "What shall be done with the first quorum? And whether the number of Seventies now existing be consolidated so as to form 50 Quorums, or whether the 76 Quorums be filled up."

[Source: Minutes, Quorum of Twelve]

90 years ago today - Nov 24, 1922

[George F. Richards diary, Nov. 24, 1922] Spent an hour or more with the First Presidency considering the ordinances & ceremonies of the Temple. Some changes made.

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

120 years ago today - Nov 24, 1892

[President Wilford Woodruff Journal] 24 Thanksgiving Our Boys went out for a Rabbit Hunt. We had the first Hard snow Storm to day for the Season. It snowed hard all day. We had our Thanksgiving dinner with our Children & grand Children with us.

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

130 years ago today - Friday, Nov 24, 1882

[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Liverpool

I received a letter from my wife Josephine written Nov. 5. All were pretty well at that time. I also received a letter from my son George Albert with a gem picture. I received a copy of the following revelation.

Revelation given through President John Taylor,

at Salt Lake City, Utah Territory, Oct. 13th 1882.

Thus saith the Lord to the Twelve, and to the priesthood and people of my church: Let my servants George Teasdale and Heber J. Grant be appointed to fill the vacancies in the Twelve, that you may be fully organized and prepared for the Labors devolving upon you, for you have a great work to perform, and then proceed to fill up the presiding quorum of Seventies, and assist in organizing that body of my priesthood who are your co-laborers in the ministry. You may appoint Seymour B. Young to fill up 'the vacancy in the presiding quorum of seventies, if he will conform to my law; for it is not meet that men who will not abide by law shall preside over my priesthood; and then proceed forthwith and call to your aid any assistance that you may recquire from among the seventies to assist you in your labors in introducing and maintaining the gospel among the Lamanites throughout the land. And then let High Priests be selected, under the direction of the first Presidency, to preside

over the various organizations that shall exist among this people; that those who receive the Gospel may be taught in the doctrines of my church, and in the ordinances and law thereof; and also in the things pertaining to my Zion and my Kingdom, saith the Lord, that they may be one with you in my church and my Kingdom.

Let the Presidency of my church be one in all things; and let the Twelve also be one in all things; and let them all be one with me as I am one with the Father.

And let the High Priests organize themselves and purify themselves, and prepare themselves for this labor, and for all other labors that they may be called upon to fulfil.

And let the Presidents of Stakes also purify themselves, and the priesthood and people of the Stakes over which they preside, and organize the priesthood in their various Stakes according to my law in all the various departments thereof, in the High Councils, in the Elders quorums, and in the Bishops and their councils, and in the quorum of Priests, Teachers and Deacons, that every quorum may be fully organized according to the order of my church; and then let them inquire into the standing and fellowship of all that hold my holy priesthood in their several stakes; and if they find those that are unworthy let them remove them, except they repent; for my priesthood, whom I have called and whom I have sustained and honored, shall honor me and obey my laws, and the laws of my holy priesthood or they shall not be considered worthy to hold my priesthood, saith the Lord. And let my priesthood humble themselves before me, and seek not their own will but my will; for if my priesthood,

whom I have chosen, and called, and endowed with the spirit and gifts of their several callings, and with the powers thereof do not acknowledge me I will not acknowledge them, saith the Lord, for I will be honored and obeyed by my priesthood.

And, then, I call upon my priesthood, and upon all my people, to repent of all their sins and shortcomings, of their covetousness and pride and selfwill, and of all their iniquities wherein they sin against me; and to seek with all humility to fulfil my law, as my priesthood, my saints, and my people, and I call upon the heads of families to put their houses in order according to the law of God, and attend to the various duties and responsibilities associated therewith, and to purify themselves before me, and to purge out iniquity from their households.

And I will bless and be with you, Saith the Lord, and ye shall gather together in your holy places wherein ye assemble to call upon me, and ye shall ask for such things as are right, and I will hear your prayers, and my spirit and power shall be with you, and my blessing shall rest upon you, upon your families, your dwellings, and your households, upon your flocks and herds and fields, your orchards and vineyards, and upon all that pertain to you, and you shall be my people and I will be your God and your enemies shall not have dominion over you, for I will preserve you and confound them, saith the Lord, and they shall not have power nor dominion over you; for my word shall go forth, and my work shall be accomplished; and my Zion shall be established, and my rule and my power and my dominion shall prevail among my people, and all nations shall yet acknowledge me, Even So amen.

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

More History?

Want more LDS history? Check out Mormon-Church-History, a comprehensive chronology of church history. It is a tour through church history, covering a little bit each day through the the history of the church. About a dozen chronological entries are posted daily, gradually covering the entire history of the Mormon church over the next several years. More info can be found here: http://mormon-church-history.blogspot.com/2008/12/welcome-to-mormon-church-history.html

15 years ago today - Nov 22, 1997

The 2500th stake is created, in Santiago, Chile Church membership exceeds 10,000,000

[Source: Madsen, Truman G., The Presidents of the Church]

65 years ago today - Nov 22, 1947

[David O. McKay] Marion Romneyâ€"Reported that Frank Fullmer called at the Welfare Office and asks that 8000 pounds of food, etc. be sent to Tahiti. Most of this can be filled from Welfare Supplies, and Brother Romney asked if they should make up these supplies, and bill the First Presidency for that which cannot be supplied from the Welfare Office. I asked Brother Romney what this supply would cost in cash. He said that roughly estimating, it would cost about $1000.00 I also asked him if the food would go only to our people, and Brother Romney said some of the supplies would be used by the missionaries, but the rest would go to our Saints there. It was agreed that these supplies should be sent inasmuch as there is a shortage of food in the Tahitian Mission.

[Source: David O. McKay, Diary]

190 years ago today - Nov 22, 1822

[Heber C. Kimball marriage] wife #1. Vilate Murray, 1806-1867 ; 10 children, including William Henry, Helen Mar, Heber P., David Patten, Charles S., and Solomon "Sol" F.

[Source: Hatch, Charles M. and Compton, Todd M. editors, 'A Widow's Tale: 1884-1896 Diary of Helen Mar Kimball Whitney' p. 37]

20 years ago today - Nov 21, 1992

Young Women from all over the world join in a day of service as part of the "Young Women Worldwide Celebration". It was titled, 'Walk In The Light'.

[Source: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, United Kingdom, "On This Day," https://www.lds.org.uk/show_oda.php]

120 years ago today - Nov 21, 1892

[Francis M. Lyman] [Scipio] The Bishops reported their wards in good shape. Counselor Thompson spoke of the political experiences in Millard Co[unty] He asked forgiveness for all the wrongs he had done, and he was willing to forgive everybody. We forgave him and one another all round by unanimous vote. He manifested a very good spirit. I found Pres[ident] Hinkley intensely democratic.

[Source: Excerpts of Apostle Francis M. Lyman Diaries, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

155 years ago today - Nov 21, 1857

[Utah War] Gov. Cumming wrote a letter to Brigham Young informing him that violent acts authorized and commanded are treasonable; that those involved are subject to the penalties accorded traitors; and the Territory is in a state of rebellion. He also issued a Proclamation to the people of Utah stating his duty "to enforce unconditional obedience." He assured that there would be no interference with their right to religious freedom.

[Source: Hale, Van, Mormon Miscellaneous, Utah War Chronology, http://www.mormonmiscellaneous.com/utahwar/id2.html]

165 years ago today - Nov 21, 1847

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 21st Sunday I met at the stand some of the Twelve & the congregation. O Pratt addressed the congregation upon the subject of the resurrection which was interesting to us all. Some had been teaching the doctrin that the resurrection was by birth or through the womb but Br Pratt showed the folly of such a doctrin, & Proved by many revelations that the dead were raised by the power of God & the Blowing of the Trump of Michael the Ark Angel who was Father Adam & that the graves of the Saints would be opened & their Bodies would come forth out of their graves according to the visions of Ezekiel & many of the prophets. He showed that However miracalous it might appear unto us it was Just as easy for God to perform this work as it was to turn water into wine or make Bread without flour to feed a multitude.

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

5 years ago today - Nov 20, 2007

In Utah polygamist leader Warren Jeffs, self-proclaimed prophet of a breakaway Mormon sect, was sentenced to 10 years to life in prison for forcing a 14-year-old to marry her first cousin. In 2010 the Utah Supreme Court reversed the convictions of Jeffs and ordered a new trial saying a jury received incorrect instructions.

[Source: Ratnikas, Algis, TimelinesDb, http://www.timelinesdb.com/listevents.php?subjid=201title=Utah]

60 years ago today - Nov 20, 1952

Elder John A. Widtsoe dies.

[Source: Wikipedia, 20th Century (Mormonism), http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century_(Mormonism)]

80 years ago today - Nov 20, 1932

The report of total tithes received in 104 stakes during the nine months ending September 30 was submitted, showing a net decrease as compared with the previous year of $82,788 53 stakes reported an increase in tithes received. There was a net increase of 5,744 tithepayers. ...

[Source: First Presidency, Meeting with Presiding Bishopric, Minutes]

90 years ago today - Nov 20, 1922

[George F. Richards diary, Nov. 20, 1922] Spent a busy day there [Salt Lake temple] considering the ordinances and suggestive changes for harmony's sake and for clarification.

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

120 years ago today - Nov 20, 1892

[Francis M. Lyman] [In Scipio, Utah:] Bro[ther] J. V. Robison spoke 30 minutes upon our late political movements. He deplored the fact that the Presidency and Twelve had taken any hand in it. The Lord, he said, had only permitted it as he allowed Israel to have a King.

[Source: Francis M. Lyman, Diary]

135 years ago today - Nov 19, 1877

Revelation to Apostle John Taylor, President of the Quorum of the Twelve, on 19 November 1877 in Salt Lake City, Utah Territory.

I have been asking the Lord to show me how to adjust the property of the Church, held in the name of the late President Brigham Young, so as to do justice to his estate and yet not wrong the Church, and have received the following answer:

You have ask of me, and others of the Twelve have asked of me, that wisdom might be given you to adjust these property matters of the Church; Thus saith the Lord: Be one, be united, be honest, act upon the principles of justice and righteousness to the living and to the dead and to my Church, and I, the Lord, will sustain you and will acknowledge your labors. Amen.

(Joseph F. Smith Papers, LDS archives, as cited in Fred C. Collier, comp., Unpublished Revelations of the Prophets and Presidents of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints [Salt Lake City: Collier's Publishing Co., 2nd ed., 1981], 1:119)

[Source: Marquardt, H. Michael, http://www.xmission.com/~research/central/revel2.htm]

45 years ago today - Nov 19,1967

[Utah] BYU's administration discuss possibility of taking legal action to close down off campus student newspaper.

[Source: 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]

20 years ago today - Nov 19, 1992.

Timothy B. Wilson of Nephi, Utah, who is preparing Mormon's Book: A Modern English Rendering for publication in 1993, is called in by his stake president (Pioneer Stake in Provo) and asked about his project and whether he knows Avraham Gileadi. Tim does not, although Gileadi's wife is editing his book. His stake president also asks whether he would drop the project if he were so instructed. Tim has already received verbal confirmation from Church Copyrights and Permissions that his project does not infringe on the church's copyright and is awaiting written confirmation at the time of the interview. According to a Salt Lake Tribune article, Tim's bishop (Pioneer Third Ward of Provo) told him that the First Presidency "objected to the format of his book," which arranged the standard and modernized rendering verse by verse in parallel columns. Tim revised his rendering to a paragraph, rather than verse, format in an effort to resolve the problem. Inspired by President Benson's challenge to "flood the earth with the Book of Mormon," he has spent two years and $20,000 on this project, which he hopes will makes the Book of Mormon more accessible to millions of readers.

29 November 1992.

[Source: Anderson, Lavina Fielding, "The LDS Intellectual Community and Church Leadership: A Contemporary Chronology," Dialogue, Vol.26, No.1]

150 years ago today - Nov 19, 1862

[U.S. Religious History] The famous American evangelist Billy Sunday was born.

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

120 years ago today - Nov 19, 1892

[President Wilford Woodruff Journal] 19 I spent the day at home mostly reading.

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

10 years ago today - Nov 18, 2002

[U.S. Religious History] U.S. District Judge Myron Thompson of Montgomery, Alabama, ordered the removal of Roy Moore's Ten Commandments monument, finding that it violated the constitution's ban on government establishment of religion. Thompson wrote in his decision that "the Ten Commandments monument, viewed alone or in the context of its history, placement, and location, has the primary effect of endorsing religion."

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

65 years ago today - Nov 18, 1947

Report on special fast day-- Church Archives, Salt Lake City, Utah.

A follow-up letter to the announcement of October 30, 1947, of a special fast day for the relief of sufferers from the war in Europe. The wards were to still retain that portion of the fast day funds normally collected during the month of December, using December, 1946, as the model. The Church would then make up from general tithing funds the amount thus retained by the wards and the full amount collected on this special fast day would be sent from Church headquarters "to the appropriate agency distributing general relief in Europe."

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

115 years ago today - Nov 18, 1897; Thursday

Eleven A.M. meeting of the First Presidency and Apostles at the Temple. ... Elder B[righam]. Young introduced the subject of supporting an enterprise to quarry a valuable marble deposit, which would require the use of the names of some leading authorities of the Church. The Council, after considering the matter, decided that it would be an improper thing for the leaders of the Church to have their names connected with speculative companies. ...

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

120 years ago today - Nov 18, 1892

[Francis M. Lyman] Had some talk with the Presidency and bro[ther] [Marriner Wood] Merrill. It will be necessary in our labors now to pour in the oil upon the troubled waters of politics.

[Source: Francis M. Lyman, Diary]

120 years ago today - Nov 18, 1892

[Apostle Marriner W. Merrill Diary] ... Arranged also to get $200.00 of my tithing applied on repairs of Logan Temple. ...

[Source: Notes from the Miscellaneous Record Book, 1886-1906: Selected diary notes from the journal books of Marriner Wood Merrill, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

120 years ago today - Nov 18, 1892

[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] I feel thankful for the openings Cannon Grant & Co. have had to obtain money as I am sure we have greatly assisted the church as well as a number of business institutions [got 50,000 from New York for church just then through HM Wells].

[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

150 years ago today - Nov 18, 1862

[Brigham Young Sermon] President Brigham Young being present was invited to address the audience. He commenced by complimenting the youthful lecturer, and expressed a desire to see other young men brought up in the same way. He defined history to be a fair account of things that we have not seen. In following up the subject of the evening he painted in glowing colors the evils attended upon youth reading warlike history.

[Source: The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009)]

180 years ago today - Nov 18, 1832

[Zebedee Coltrin] "18 the went to meating the Lord blest [blessed] us much and in the Eaving [Evening] had meatig [meeting] Br Green Speak in tongs [tongues] and Br Joseph Smith with tongs [tongues] also by the Holy ghost"

[Source: Zebedee Coltrin Journal]

1 year ago - Nov 17, 2011

The California Supreme Court agreed Prop 8 sponsors have the right to defend the ballot measure in court.

[Source: Prop 8 Timeline, NBC San Diego, http://www.nbcsandiego.com/news/politics/Proposition-8-Timeline-History-California--138796454.html]

80 years ago today - Nov 17, 1932

[Apostle George Albert Smith Journal] "At Temple with Council. Am sad to know there is so much misunderstanding (OVER) among some of our leaders."

[Source: Journals of George Albert Smith]

100 years ago today - Nov 17, 1912

[Apostle Rudger Clawson] Mobbed in Bristol, England.

[Source: Larsen, Stan (editor), A Ministry of Meetings:The Apostolic Diaries of Rudger Clawson, Significant Mormon Diaries Series No. 6, A Rudger Clawson Chronology, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson]

105 years ago today - Nov 17, 1907

Howard W. Hunter is born in Boise, Idaho

[Source: Madsen, Truman G., The Presidents of the Church]

170 years ago today - Nov 17, 1842 (Thursday)

Alpheus Harmon was frozen to death on the prairie, between Nauvoo and Carthage, Ill., as he was returning home from a mission.

[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

170 years ago today - Nov 17, 1842

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 17 Cold weather Still continues. Many are suffering for the want of wood & provisions. The early winter has caught many unprepared.

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

20 years ago today - Nov 16, 1992.

The summer 1992 issue of Brigham Young University Studies (vol. 32, no. 3, 1992) arrives, including "a revision of portions" of Elder Maxwell's FARMS banquet address (see entry of 27 September 1991), and "the main part" of BYU Provost Bruce C. Hafen's address to the faculty in September 1992, "edited . . . for distribution to a wider audience." In it he warns "troubled" faculty, "Conscientious private communication may ultimately be of real help to the Church and its leaders, but public expression . . . may simply spray another burst of spiritual shrapnel through the ranks of trusting and vulnerable students." He adds, "The statement by the First Presidency and the Twelve . . . counseling against any participation in certain kinds of symposia . . . is not primarily a BYU matter--but it clearly speaks to BYU people. It is written in nondirective, nonpunitive terms, but its expectations are clear to those with both eyes open. . . . If a few among us create enough reason for doubt about the rest of us, that can erode our support among Church members and Church leaders enough to mortally wound our ability to pursue freely the dream of a great university in Zion."

[Source: Anderson, Lavina Fielding, "The LDS Intellectual Community and Church Leadership: A Contemporary Chronology," Dialogue, Vol.26, No.1]

95 years ago today - Nov 16, 1917

[Spencer W. Kimball] Marries Camilla Eyring.

[Source: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Spencer W. Kimball, Salt Lake City, Utah]

115 years ago today - Nov 16, 1897; Tuesday

Pres[ident]. Wilford Woodruff, accompanied by his counselors, went to the Temple at 1 o'clock, P.M., where he performed the marriage ceremony for his daughter Alice and Bro[ther]. William McEwan. After the sealing was solemnized, Pres[ident]. Woodruff made these remarks:

["]You are now husband and wife, having entered into this covenant, and promises have been made to you for time and eternity. Now if you honor God, yourselves and your parents through all time, and keep the commandments of God and the covenants you have entered into, I will promise you that you will be true and faithful throughout all eternity, and I will

tell you the reason why.

["]While here you and all of us are surrounded by temptation because we are where devils dwell, they are all around us and have the power to tempt us, and here is the place where they work. But there is no man or woman who has been true and faithful here until death that will ever be disturbed or annoyed after death, for the reason that when the faithful Saints receive their resurrected bodies they will occupy a place in the celestial kingdom, and there is where devils do not dwell; and therefore when you get there, there will be no one to tempt or lead astray, and for that reason, if you are true and faithful here, you will be true and faithful there throughout all eternity. Here is where our trouble lies. We have them to contend with in this city and this territory, and there are plenty of them in the midst of the latter-day Saints, as to the number of them I do not know, but there are plenty of them. They are continually working for our destruction, and they do all they can against us. When those who are guided by these evil spirits die, they go where they are, and the evil spirits will still have power over them, while they will have no power over faithful Saints who have learned to resist them in the flesh".

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

120 years ago today - Nov 16, 1892

[President Wilford Woodruff Journal] 16 I spent the day in the office. Met with Several Brethren. I had a view of the painting By Alfred Lambourne of the Hill Comorah which was a Beautiful painting.

[Source: 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 - 1847 16 Nov.

Young claims that Apostles Taylor and Parley P. Pratt "had committed adultery" when "they committed an insult on the Holy Priesthood" by marrying plural wives to each other in 1846 and 1847 despite Young's refusal to authorize these marriages. When the Quorum of Twelve excommunicates William W. Phelps on Dec 5 for doing the same offense, the apostles agree that Apostles Pratt and Taylor were equally guilty but pursue no action against them.

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

175 years ago today - Nov 16, 1837

[Wilford Woodruff Journal] 16th I went on board the vessel and fell upon my Knees & prayed for God to have mercy upon the People & cause the Book of Mormon to prove a Blessing to the Island. We left Esq Turner's wharf on board the vessel at 12 oclock at noon. We were becalmed on the way, and if St. Paul rowed hard to make the land in a tempest So did we row hard to make the land in a calm. We were eight hours in travling 12 miles and after rowing three hours we reached Capt Coombs at 8 oclock PM. Distance 12 miles.

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

20 years ago today - Nov 15, 1992.

Cecilia Konchar Farr is called into a friendly meeting with her stake president, who explains candidly that he is acting on instructions from the area president to interview her on her general faithfulness and report back. He is not aware of Cecilia's harassed situation at BYU, that other BYU professors have been called in, or the associated issues of academic freedom. Cecilia describes a talk on Mormonism and feminism she gave in sacrament meeting soon after the lengthy interview with her in the Salt Lake Tribune. The stake president responds enthusiastically, "That's great with me. I'll report back that you're okay."

[Source: Anderson, Lavina Fielding, "The LDS Intellectual Community and Church Leadership: A Contemporary Chronology," Dialogue, Vol.26, No.1]

100 years ago today - Nov 15, 1912

Frank J. Cannon was excommunicated for apostasy, and not for apostasy and immoral conduct, and therefore the published leaflet entitled, “Ex-Senator Frank J. Cannon’s opinion of the Mormon Prophet Joseph F. Smith months after the prophet's selection and months prior to Cannon’s excommunication from the Mormon Church for apostasy and immoral conduct,” may be construed as libelous, and doubtless would be; and therefore ... unless the words, “for apostasy and immoral conduct” in the title page immediately after “Mormon Church” can be FULLY obliterated by printing heavy black marks over these words. If this can be satisfactorily done, it would be all right to distribute the leaflet, otherwise it should be suppressed.

[Source: First Presidency, Letter to Samuel O. Bennion]

120 years ago today - Nov 15, 1892

[President Wilford Woodruff Journal] Several of the Twelve Came in And it was voted By G Q Cannon J F Smith F D Richards F M Lyman & John Henry Smith that my Services should be increased in wages from $416.66 to $500 a month as Trustee in Trust from the time of my Apointment.

[Source: 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 - 1847 15 Nov.

Young proposes organizing a separate First Presidency which several apostles oppose.

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

170 years ago today - Nov 15, 1842

Nauvoo, Illinois. Joseph Smith resigned as editor of the Church newspaper Times and Seasons and appointed John Taylor in his place.

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

175 years ago today - mid Nov 1837

The [Kirtland Saftey Society] formally closed its doors in Kirtland and went out of business.

[Source: Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]

125 years ago today - Nov 14, 1887

[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] Met John T. Caine, he had just [returned] from Washington where he had gone to present to the President [of the United States] the Utah State Constitution. President Cleveland informed brother Caine that our people had done all that any one could reasonble [sic] ask in adopting the State Constitution punishing polygamy. I am glad the President feels as he does as it gives me additional faith that we shalt be successful in our efforts for Statehood.

[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

160 years ago today - Nov 14, 1852

[Heber C. Kimball] When we escape from this earth, (do) we suppose we are going to heaven? Do you suppose you are going to the earth that Adam came from? that Eloheim came from? where Jehovah the Lord came from? No. When you have learned to become obedient to the Father that dwells upon this earth, to the Father and God of this earth, and obedient to the messengers He sends---when you have done all that, remember you are not going to leave this earth. You will never leave it until you become qualified, and capable, and capacitated to become a father of an earth yourselves.

[Source: Journal of Discourses 1:356]

165 years ago today - Nov 14, 1847

[Brigham Young Sermon] I [Brigham Young] met with the saints in public meeting; referred to our healthy locality in the mountains; suggested that those who could not go west next spring should vacate Winter Quarters and return to the east side of the river. The saints voted to leave Winter Quarters next spring.

[Source: The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009)]

180 years ago today - Nov 14, 1832

[Zebedee Coltrin] "came to Kirtland to Brothers Joseph Smith and heard him Speak with Tongues and Sing in Tongues"

[Source: Zebedee Coltrin Journal]

20 years ago today - 13-Nov 14, 1992.

Elder Malcolm S. Jeppsen, president of the Utah South Area, addresses the area priesthood leadership meeting. Elders Henry B. Eyring and Joseph B. Wirthlin are also in attendance. According to an attendee, Elder Jeppsen defines "a spectrum" of church members including "an increasing number . . . who still cling to their membership" but "are pursuing paths to apostasy." In the center are "the mainstream of the Saints, whose who follow the guidance of the latter-day prophets." To the right are four groups: "the priestcrafters who sell their services of gospel understanding for money, the latter-day gnostics who believe that they are endowed with special knowledge of the mysteries and that the veil has been rent for them, the doomsayers who forecast future events, and the cultists who practice polygamy or other doctrines that are not taught by the Church." To the left are "the feminists: those who advocate a mother in heaven and women holding the priesthood, the intellectuals who advocate a naturalistic explanation for the Book of Mormon and other revelations, and the dissenters: those who challenge the interpretation of the leadership of the Church." According to this report, Elder Jeppsen also characterizes Satan as "the great multiplier of perspectives in this earth" while "Jesus Christ is the great consolidator of all truth. . . He is asking us that we follow the brethren unquestionably [sic]." Also in the same priesthood meeting, one speaker (not identified) gives a list of fifteen "false teachings," including specific dates for the Second Coming, "praying to a Mother in Heaven," explicit preparations for attacks by Russians and others, and teaching where and when the ten tribes will return.

[Source: Anderson, Lavina Fielding, "The LDS Intellectual Community and Church Leadership: A Contemporary Chronology," Dialogue, Vol.26, No.1]

105 years ago today - Nov 13, 1907 (Wednesday)

The new cement stairway leading up to the Manti Temple (commenced July 9, 1907) was completed. The stairway is composed of 80 steps of 12-inch tread and 6-inch rise.

[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

110 years ago today - Thursday, Nov 13, 1902

[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Salt Lake City. Cloudy and cold. 10 a.m. Meeting at the temple. ... Pat. Jno. Smith remained home all day Sunday to write letters and on Monday went to Provo to see his sick boy. He said that Black Jane [i.e., Jane Manning James] had called on him and wanted to know when the curse would be taken off that she might have her endowments. Brother John was instructed to tell her to be patient and wait a little longer; that the Lord has his eye on her and would be far better to her than ever she had dreamed.

...Pres. Smith said that everything looks favorable for Brother Smoot's appointment to the United States senate. The only opposition comes from anti-Mormon sources. As members of the council, we must be consistent and stand by our views heretofore expressed, and so continue unless otherwise determined. Benediction by Pres. Jos. F. Smith.

[Source: Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson]

55 years ago today - Tue Nov 12, 1957

[David O. McKay Office Journal] 8:30 a.m.--Received a courtesy call from Senator John Kennedy of Massachusetts. He was accompanied by Milton Weilenmann, local Democratic leader, who says John Kennedy is the next Democratic presidential candidate. Mr. Kennedy is a member of the Catholic Church. I enjoyed my visit with him, although not too much impressed with him as a leader.

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

115 years ago today - Nov 12, 1897; Friday

I started to Provo [Utah] early this morning for the purpose of attending the Brigham Young Academy and delivering an address to the pupils and to be present at a Board meeting. It is very interesting to stand before about 500 pupils, young men and young women of intelligence, and an excellent spirit prevailed.

[Source: George Q. Cannon, Diary]

120 years ago today - Nov 12, 1892 (Saturday)

At a session of the Territorial Supreme Court, held in Salt Lake City, Chief Justice Charles S. Zane delivered an opinion in the case of the United States versus the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, confirming a decision of the lower court, and authorizing the use of the personal property of the Church under the direction of a trustee, for the building and repairing of houses of worship and the support of the poor. The court appointed Bishop Leonard G. Hardy trustee, and fixed his bonds at $500,000.

[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

140 years ago today - Nov 12, 1872

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 12 To day I had my first introduction to the Hands in the printing Office. As Elder Cannon is going to Washington Presidet Young wishes Me to publish & Edit the Deseret News & take Charge of the whole Affair. It is a vary Heavy load for me, but what is laid upon me I will do the best I can at. I wrote 3 letters to Azmon, Ilus, & Evans of Brigham City. I received a letter

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

15 years ago today - Nov 11, 1997

Music and Values, a Church-produced public affairs radio program, wins the 1994 Gabriel Award in the national-religious category.

[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]

145 years ago today - Nov 11, 1867

[Brigham Young Sermon] President B. Young then spoke at some length, instructing those present on various points connected with the Sunday School movement and the cause of education in general. He said that his first selection of books, were he choosing, would be the Old and the New Testaments, the Book of Mormon, and the Book of Doctrine and Covenants. He spoke of the value his early Bible reading had been to him in his ministerial labors of after years; and of the benefits which the elders have ever derived from an extensive acquaintance with its contents; adding that the best pleas and arguments ever made in courts, have been drawn from and based upon the Bible; and that the governments of Christendom claim it as the foundation upon which all their laws are constructed. His remarks were replete with instruction. -- SLC 13th Ward [Deseret News. Also Deseret Evening News, Deseret News Weekly, Deseret News Semi- Weekly, and Deseret News Extra, Salt Lake City; 1850-current. 16:325]

[Source: The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009)]

175 years ago today - Nov 11, 1837

Frederick G. Williams rejected as counselor, Hyrum Smith appointed instead. Also, David Whitmer rejected and branch president, John Whitmer appointed instead.

[Source: Tidd, N. R., "Mormon Chronology"]

100 years ago today - Nov 10, 1912

[Thomas A. Clawson Diary] "Went to High Priests (Sic) Quorum Meeting at 10 A.M. It was very interesting bro Jos. E. Taylor [brother of President John Taylor] read an account of some predictions made by Joseph Smith the Prophet in Nauvoo in 1844 in which he said that the Ottoman Empire would be the first great nation to crumble away in order that the gospel might be preached to the inhabitance (Sic) of that country. He said also that he would speak in parables and would liken the Saints to the White horse of Peace who should be established in the Valleys of the Mountains That the Greek and Roman Church should become united and would eventually be lead (Sic) by the Czar of Russia who would be represented by the Black horse or war. and he would lead his armies against Jerusalem and is the God and Magog of the scriptures. THat England is represented by the Red horse and would be the last of the great nations to fall because of great amount of the blood of Isreal (Sic) that was sprinkled among her people and who would be gathered out first. She would hold the balance of power among the nations and would assist the White horse when in need. It would be the while horse that would save the constitution when it was held only by a thread as fine as the finest filiment (Sic) of a silken cord. That there would [be] a great famin (Sic) in the Land of the White horse, not due to the ground failing to yielding (Sic) up her bounties but to the great multitude who flock her (Sic) for peace and perservation from the great unrest of the world. The reading of these predictions were brought out by the present crisis in the affairs of Europe by the defeat of the Turkish Army and the threatened fall of Constantinople."

[Source: Diary Excerpts of Thomas A. Clawson, Signature Books Library, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

140 years ago today - Nov 10, 1872

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 10 Sunday I met with my Quorum in the morning & attended Meeting in the 14 ward John R. Winder Bishop. In the evening Br Ship spoke. I followed.

The City of Boston has been burning now for 24 hour. 100,000,000 dollar worth of property Destroyed. Telegraph say 300 Acres of the Heart of the City burned. I red in Meeting the latter part of the 4 section of the Doctrins & Covenants Containing the Commandment of the Lord to Newel K Whitney to go to the Cities of Albany New York, & Boston & warn those Cities of the utter Desolation which await[ed?] them if they rejected the gospel & the Message sent to them. If they did their hour of Desolation was Nigh & their house should be left unto them Desolate & this is the begining of the fulfillment. I spoke abot 40 M & was folowed by O Pratt.

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

175 years ago today - Nov 10, 1837

Far West priesthood members vote to double the size of the city. Those who lay out the city plat are to be compensated in land. The rest of the land to be consecrated to the public good.

[Source: Kenny, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml]

40 years ago today - Nov 09, 1972

Ruth Hardy Funk is called as the president of the Aaronic Priesthood MIA (Young Women), with Hortense Hogan Child and Ardeth Green Kapp as counselors. When this auxiliary was renamed the Young Women organization in 1974, Sister Funk was retained as its president.

[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]

60 years ago today - Nov 09, 1952

The Detroit Stake, the first stake in Michigan, is organized, with George W. Romney as president.

[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]

80 years ago today - Nov 9, 1932

[President Heber J. Grant Diary] I got up this morning at 2:30 and phoned the Tribune to learn how the election had gone and was informed that practically all of the Republicans had been defeated, Senator [and apostle] Smoot among the number. My heart goes out in deep sympathy to Senator Smoot. After thirty years of the most splendid labor, the most diligent work that I think any man ever performed in the Senate, to have the people be so ungrateful for all he has done for Utah as to leave him home, it must be a terrible disappointment to him.

[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

120 years ago today - Nov 9, 1892

Papers report a most wonderful Democratic majority in most of the largest states in the Union as well as in Utah.

Like a tidal wave it has swept the whole country landing the Republican party high & dry.

I called on Junior [i.e., Francis M. Lyman Jr.] at his office and from him learned of the crushing defeat of the republicans throughout the United States. It is a Perfect landslide for the Democratic party in Utah as well as throughout the Nation. It comes as the voice of a great people in thunder tones. Republicans bow humbly to the sovereign will. We all acknowledge the ha[n]d of God in it all.

[Source: Franklin D. Richards, Diary; Francis M. Lyman, Diary]

120 years ago today - Nov 9, 1892

[Francis M. Lyman] I called on Junior at his office and from him learned of the crushing defeat of the republicans throughout the United States. It is a Perfect landslide for the Democratic party in Utah as well as throughout the Nation. It comes as the voice of a great people in thunder tones. Republicans bow humbly to the sovereign will. We all acknowledge the ha[n]d of God in it all.

[Source: Excerpts of Apostle Francis M. Lyman Diaries, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

175 years ago today - --9 [November, 1837].

[Willard Richards Journal] --Met at Mr. Ingra's, and confirmed those baptized. During the night my lodgings were surrounded by hundreds of persons, yelling and howling. ...

[Source: Willard Richards Journal]

20 years ago today - Nov 08, 1992

President Elaine L. Jack, the general president of the Relief Society, makes the first visit to India by a Church auxiliary president.

[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]

80 years ago today - Nov 8, 1932

[President Heber J. Grant Diary] I spent the morning at home. Went to the polls at about noon and voted. Subsequently learned that my vote would be thrown out, as I should have used either ink or an indelible pencil, and I used a pencil with red lead.

[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

100 years ago today - Nov 8, 1912

The First Presidency created a Correlation Committee, headed by Elder David O. McKay of the Quorum of the Twelve, and asked it to coordinate scheduling and prevent unnecessary duplication in programs of Church auxiliaries.

[Source: Church News: Historical Chronology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, http://www.ldschurchnews.com/articles/58765/Historical-chronology-of-The-Church-of-Jesus-Christ-of-Latter-day-Saints.html]

120 years ago today - Nov 8, 1892

[Apostle Franklin D. Richards Diary] ... after closing of the poles spent 2 hours with a number others at Dem. headquarters hearing returns as they came in from various parts of the Territory & United States. By 10 pm were satisfied that the Territory had elected JL Rawlins & the country had elected Grover Cleveland ... Immense excitement in the streets nearly all night by the Democrats over their victory today all over the United states as well as in Utah.

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

130 years ago today - Nov 8, 1882

[Franklin D. Richards] At Council at 2. p.m. Conversation turned on the Election. the returns from several States showing that they have gone Democratic by large majorities-

Our enemies the Liberals look very sick & sorry at the prospect.

[Source: Franklin D. Richards, Diary]

160 years ago today - Nov 8, 1852

... Pres[ident] Heber C. Kimball, Willard Richards, Tho[ma]s Bullock, W[illia]m C. Staines, James Ure, James W. Cummings, Samuel L. Sprague, W[illia]m W. Phelps, each with a wife met in the Temple room. The brethren annointed each other. The wives were annointed by Sister [Elizabeth Ann] Whitney and [Eliza R.] Snow; afterwards all partook of cakes and wine. Some spoke in tongues, etc.

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

180 years ago today - Nov 8, 1832

[Brigham Young Sermon] We immediately repaired to the woods, where we found the Prophet, and two or three of his brothers, chopping and hauling wood. Here my joy was full at the privilege of shaking the hand of the Prophet of God, and receiving the sure testimony, by the spirit of prophecy, that he was all that any man could believe him to be as a true prophet. He was happy to see us and bid us welcome. We soon returned to his house, he accompanying us. In the evening, a few of the brethren came in, and we conversed upon the things of the kingdom. He called upon me to pray; in my prayer I spoke in tongues. As soon as we arose from our knees, the brethren flocked around him, and asked his opinion concerning the gift of tongues that was upon me. He told them it was the pure Adamic language. Some said to him they expected he would condemn the gift Brother Brigham had, but he said, '"No, it is of God.'" -- Kirtland, Ohio [History of the Church. 7 Vols. B. H. Roberts, ed. Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, Co., 1902. 1:295]

[Source: The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009)]

120 years ago today - Nov 7, 1892

[President Wilford Woodruff Journal] 7 I spent the day in the Office. Met many men. Politics are raging high. I talked about sugar to Broth Cutler. F M Lyman returned.

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

120 years ago today - Nov 7, 1892

[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] This evening attended the theatre and listened to a joint debate between Rawlins and Cannon our would be delegates to Congress ...

[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

125 years ago today - Mon. Nov. 7th, 1887

[Abraham H. Cannon Journal] "I got his consent (G. Q. Cannon's) to get John Q. to revise the Ms. of "Joseph the Prophet" which Frank prepared, after which Father and Joseph F. Smith will review it and we can then print the same."

[Source: Abraham H. Cannon Journal Excerpts, http://www.amazon.com/Apostles-Record-Journals-Abraham-1889-1896/dp/B000MFD1K4]

175 years ago today - Nov 7, 1837

[Joseph Smith] The First Presidency ordains Isaac Morley a stake patriarch in Missouri. Although the president of the Quorum of Twelve is present, he is not invited to join in the ordination since apostles in the 1830s are not authorized to function in stakes or to ordain stake patriarchs.

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

175 years ago today - 1837 7 Nov.

[Joseph Smith] The First Presidency ordains Isaac Morley a stake patriarch in Missouri. Although the president of the Quorum of Twelve is present, he is not invited to join in the ordination since apostles in the 1830s are not authorized to function in stakes or to ordain stake patriarchs.

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

180 years ago today - Nov 6, 1832

[Emma Smith] Son Joseph Smith III born at Kirtland, Ohio.

[Source: Emma Smith, Woman of Faith, http://emmasmithmormon.com]

175 years ago today - Nov 6, 1837

Oliver Cowdery: Allowed by leading quorums 6 Nov. 1837 to resolve difficulty with Joseph Smith Jr. over polygamy without involving the church council

[Source: Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 6, Biographical Sketches of General Officers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]

5 years ago today - Nov 6, 2007

George Osmond (90), father of Donny and Marie Osmond and patriarch to the family's singing group The Osmond Brothers, died in Provo, Utah.

[Source: Ratnikas, Algis, TimelinesDb, http://www.timelinesdb.com/listevents.php?subjid=201title=Utah]

60 years ago today - Wed Nov 5, 1952

[David O. McKay Office Journal] We were all thrilled with the News [of the election of Eisenhower by a large majority, and of Republicans J. Bracken Lee and Arthur V. Watkins]. In my opinion, it is the greatest thing that has happened in a hundred years for our country.

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

130 years ago today - Nov 05, 1882

Emma Lucy Gates (Bowen), later an opera star and promoter of music in Utah, is born in St. George, Utah.

[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]

170 years ago today - Nov 5, 1842

Nauvoo, Illinois. Joseph Smith received a visit from some Native Americans, who -"expressed great friendship for the Mormon people, and said they were their friends.-",

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

40 years ago today - Nov 4, 1972

New 28-story Church Office Building opened.

[Source: Hemidakaota, "Church Chronology from 1800-2000," http://www.lds.net/forums/scripture-study-forum/12108-church-chronology-1800-2000-part-1-a.html#post214550]

20 years ago today - Nov 04, 1992

[U.S. Religious History] Argued: Church of the Lukumi Babalu Aye v. City of Hialeah

When this case was decided, the Court unanimously invalidated city ordinances outlawing animal sacrifices.

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

170 years ago today - Nov 4, 1842

William Law: Returned to Nauvoo 4 November 1842. Owned steam-operated grain and saw mill in Nauvoo. Owned town lots in Nauvoo and sold merchandise.

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

35 years ago today - Nov 03, 1977

Bruce C. Hafen is appointed as the eleventh president of Ricks College.

[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]

40 years ago today - Nov 03, 1972

The Mormon Battalion Visitors' Center opens in San Diego, California, overlooking the historic Old Town.

[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]

65 years ago today - Nov 3, 1947

In your letter to me of October 28, 1947, you say that you and some of your fellow students have been “perturbed” about the question of why the negro race cannot hold the priesthood. In reply I send you the following thoughts that I expressed to a friend on the same subject: Stated briefly your problem is simply thisâ€" Since, as Paul states, the Lord “hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth,” why is there shown in the Church of Christ discrimination against the colored race? This is a perplexing problem, particularly in the light of the present trend of civilization to grant equality to all men irrespective of race, creed, or color. The answer as I have sought it cannot be found in abstract reasoning, for in this case Reason to the soul is “dim as the borrowed rays of moon and starts to lonely , weary, wandering travelers.” I know of no scriptural basis for denying the Priesthood to Negroes other than one verse in the Book of Abraham (1:26); however, I believe, as you suggest, that the real reason dates back to our Pre-existent life. This means that the true answer to your question (and it is the only one that has given me any satisfaction) has its foundations in faithâ€"(1) Faith in a God of Justice (2) Faith in the existence of an eternal plan of salvation for all God’s children. Faith in a God of Justice Essential I say faith in a God of Justice, because if we hold the Lord responsible for the conditions of the Negro in his relationship to the Church, we must acknowledge justice as an attribute of the Eternal, or conceive Him as a discriminator and therefore unworthy of our worship. In seeking our answer, then, to the problem wherein discrimination seems apparent, we must accept the Lord as being upright, and that “Justice and judgment are the habitation of his throne.” (Psalm 89:14). And we must believe that He will “render to everyman according to his work,” and that He “shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.” (Eccl. 12:14) Accepting the truth that God is just and righteous, we may then set our minds to rest in the assurance that “Whatsoever good thing any man doeth shall be received of the Lord, whether he be bond or free.” (Eph. 6:8) I emphasize Justice as an attribute of Deity, because it is the Lord, who, though He made “of one blood all nations.” also “determined the bounds of their habitation.” In other words the seeming discrimination by the Church toward the Negro is not something which originated with man, but goes back into the Beginning with God. It was the Lord who said that Pharaoh, the first Governor of Egypt, though “a righteous man,” blessed with the blessings of the earth, with the blessings of wisdom”**** “could not have the right of the Priesthood.” Now if we have faith in the justice of God, we are forced to the conclusion that this denial was not a deprivation of merited right. It may have been entirely in keeping with the eternal plan of salvation for all the children of God. The peopling of the Earth is in accordance with Great Plan Revelation assures us that this plan antedates man’s mortal existence, extending back to man’s pre-existent state. In that pre-mortal state were “intelligences” that were organized before the world was; and among all these there were many of the noble and great ones; “And God saw these should that they were good, and He stood in the midst of them, and he said: These will I make my rules; for he stood among those that were spirits, and he saw that they were good.” Manifestly, from this revelation, we may infer two things: first that there were among those spirits different degrees of intelligence, varying grades of achievement, retarded and advanced spiritual attainments; (2) that there were no national distinctions among those spirits such as Americans, Europeans, Asiatics, Australians, Etc. Such “bounds of habitation” would have to be “determined” when the spirits entered upon their earthly existence or second estate. In the “Blue Bird” Maeterlinck pictures unborn children summoned to earth-life. As one group approaches the earth, the voices of the children earthward-tending are heard in the distance to cry: “The earth! The earth! I can see it; how beautiful it is! How bright it is!” Then following these cries of ecstasy there issued from out of the depth of the abyss a sweet song of gentleness and expectancy, in reference to which the author says: “It is the song of the mothers coming out to meet them.” Maeterlinck’s fairy play is not all fantasy or imagination, neither is Wordsworth’s “Ode on Intimations of Immortality” wherein he says: Our birth is but a sleep and a forgetting; The Soul that rises with us, our life’s Star, Hath had elsewhere its setting And cometh from afar; Not in entire forgetfulness, And not in utter nakedness, But trailing clouds of glory do we come From God, who is our home. For, as we have already noted, it is a given fact in revelation that Abraham was chosen before he was born. Songs of expectant parents come from all parts of the earth, and each little spirit is attracted to the spiritual and moral parentage for which the spirit had prepared itself. Now if none of these spirits was permitted to enter mortality until they all were good and great and had become leaders, then the diversity of conditions among the children of men as we see them today would certainly seem to indicate discrimination and injustice. But if in their eagerness to take upon themselves bodies, the spirits were willing to come through any lineage for which they were worthy, or to which they were attracted, then they were given the full reward of merits and were satisfied, yes, and even blessed. Accepting this theory of life, we have a reasonable explanation of existent conditions in the habitations of man. How the law of spiritual attraction works between the spirit and the expectant parents has not been revealed, neither can finite mind fully understand. By analogy, however, we can perhaps get a glimpse of what might take place in that spirit world. In physics we refer to the law of attraction wherein some force acting mutually between particles of matter tends to draw them together and to keep them from separating. In chemistry there is an attractive force exerted between atoms which causes them to enter into combination. We know, too, that there is an affinity between personsâ€"a spiritual relationship or attraction wherein individuals are either drawn towards others or repelled by others. Might it not be so in the realm of spirit---each individual attracted to the parents for which it is prepared? Our place in this world would then be determined by our own advancement or condition in the pre-mortal state. Just as our place in our future existence will be determined by what we do here in mortality. When, therefore, the Creator said to Abraham, and to others of his attainment, “you I will make my rulers,” there could exist no feeling of envy or of jealousy among the million other spirits, for those who were good and great were but receiving their just reward, just as do members of a graduation class who have successfully completed their prescribed courses of study. The thousands of other students who have not yet attained that honor still have the privilege to seek it, or they may if they choose, remain in satisfaction down in the grades. By the operation of some eternal law which men do not yet understand, spirits come through the parentage for which they are worthyâ€"some as Bushmen of Australia, some as Solomon Islanders, some as Americans, as Europeans, as Asiatics, etc. with all the varying degrees of mentality and spirituality manifest in parents of the different races that inhabit the earth. Of this we may be sure, each was satisfied and happy to come through the lineage to which he or she was attracted and for which, and only which, he or she was prepared. The Priesthood was given to those who were chosen as leaders. There were many who could not receive it, yet who k
new that it was possible for them at sometime in the eternal plan to achieve that honor. Even those who knew that they would not be prepared to receive it during their mortal existence were content in the realization that they could attain every earthly blessing, progress intellectually and spiritually and posses to a limited degree the blessings of wisdom. George Washington Carver was one of the noblest souls that ever came to earth. He held a close kinship with his Heavenly Father, and rendered a service to his fellow men such as few have ever excelled. For every righteous endeavor, for every good deed performed in his useful life, George Washington Carver will be rewarded, and so will every other man, red white, black, or yellow; for God is no respecter of persons. Sometime in God’s eternal plan, the Negro will be given the right to hold the Priesthood. In the meantime, those of that race who receive the testimony of the Restored Gospel may have their families ties protected and other blessings made secure, for in the justice and mercy of the Lord they will possess all the blessings to which they are entitled in the eternal plan of Salvation and Exaltation. Nephi 26:33, to which you refer, does not contradict what I have said above, because the Negro is entitled to come unto the Lord by baptism, confirmation, and to receive of the assistance of the Church in living righteously.

[Source: David O. McKay, Letter to “Dear Brother”]

80 years ago today - Nov 3, 1932

[President Heber J. Grant Diary] Upon reaching Ogden I was interviewed by a representative of the Ogden Standard. I told him I had nothing further to say politically than was contained in the published statement over the signatures of myself, President Ivins and President Clawson, --that I had nothing further to say for publication but that personally I was for Reed Smoot for Senator. To my great annoyance I learned that he put that statement in his report, which I am sure will create a lot of unfavorable comment. He not only published it in his paper but the Standard wired the contents of this interview to the Salt Lake Telegram. The Telegram had the courtesy to send their representative to my home and read the article to my home and read the article to me but inasmuch as it had been printed by the Standard I told the Telegram they could go ahead and pujblish (sic) it and they could also say that I am for Hoover. My suggestion that I had nothing further to say politically being disregarded by the Standard, it is the last time they will ever get an interview from me, unless I change my mind.

[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

120 years ago today - Nov 3, 1892

[Francis M. Lyman] [In Evanston, Wyoming:] I received a telegram from Senator Gary as follows: ["]Cheyenne, Wyoming Hon[orable]. F[rancis]. M. Lyman Evanston. Please call on G. H. Rycuman Cyrus Beard and Frank M. Foote. Joseph M. Carr.["] I at once called on Mr. Beard and Foote who seem very confident that the Republican party till win the day. They feel well toward our people and feel there is no political deal in putting B[isho]p Downs in as [Superintendent] of the mines at Alma. After a nice talk with them I met Bro[ther] Richards, Mr. A. C. Beckwith and Dr. Hocker. Had a good visit with them. Dr. Hacker chairman of the Co[unty]. Committee said to me if we would not help the Democrats nor the Republicans but stand by we would see one of the grandest fights in the world.

W[illiam]. W. Cluff Jr. drove us over to Alma and left us at B[isho]p James Downs.

Had some talk with the Bishop upon politics. Find our people nearly all democrats and its dangerous to try to shape their votes to assist the Republicans even in state and national affaires. ...

After meeting three of the brethren came down to the Bishops with us and we drew their attention to the vote of our people two years ago and asked that they be consistent and not to go back on their former friends the Republicans in the state and national election. They seem generally to be so thoroughly democratic that we can hardly hope to turn them. Those three and the Bishop seemed willing to do their best in a quiet way. There is such jealousy about the movements of Apostles that we thought it unwise to speak politically before all the brethren. It may be a sorry day when our people get in their democratic work and turn Wyoming over to the Democratic column.

[Source: Francis M. Lyman, Diary]

175 years ago today - early Nov 1837

Oliver Cowdery confronted Joseph Smith over the matter of Smith's having carried on sexual relations with Miss Fanny Alger in Kirtland. Smith called in witnesses and shook hands with Cowdery, their both having agreed "to drop every past thing." [Oliver Cowdery Letterbook, Jan. 21, 1838]

[Source: Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]

75 years ago today - Nov 2, 1937

[President Heber J. Grant Diary] Brother Rufus K. Hardy called today and told me of the condition of Brother Richard R. Lyman's automobile business. I told him I thought it was an outrage for Brother Lyman to turn over his affairs for him to look after. He told me of his connection with Brother Lyman's automobile business. I told him "Don't you go against your own judgment in borrowing any money for that company, insist on Richard R. Lyman making his own arrangements for large purchase of goods."

[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

125 years ago today - Wednesday, Nov 2, 1887

[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] ... I wrote to Bro. H. J. Grant in regard to our financial affairs and told him I wanted money at the lowest rate of interest possible.

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

170 years ago today - Nov 2, 1842

[Lucy Mack Smith] The Mansion House is sufficiently finished that Joseph can transfer his office into it from the red brick store.

[Source: Anderson, Lavina Fielding, Editor, Lucy's Book: A Critical Edition of Lucy Mack Smith's Family Memoir, 2001, Signature Books, http://bit.ly/lucys-book]

15 years ago today - Nov 1, 1997

The Worldwide Church Membership count reaches 10 Million [10 000 000] people on this day.

[Source: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, United Kingdom, "On This Day," https://www.lds.org.uk/show_oda.php]

20 years ago today - Nov 1, 1992.

At the instruction of Elder Russell M. Nelson, Jack and Linda Newell's stake president, Ted M. Jacobsen, informs them that they may not see their files maintained by the Strengthening Church Members Committee.

[Source: Anderson, Lavina Fielding, "The LDS Intellectual Community and Church Leadership: A Contemporary Chronology," Dialogue, Vol.26, No.1]

35 years ago today - Nov 1, 1977

Spencer W Kimball dedicates Osmond Family Studio in Orem, Utah.

[Source: Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/extensionsofpower]

90 years ago today - Nov 1, 1922

Day after Heber J. Grant joins in public appeal for election of man as county sheriff, First Presidency issues statement that church feels "free to use its influence in the promotion of good legislation, honest administration of government and matters calculated to benefit the state and it's people."

[Source: Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/extensionsofpower]

120 years ago today - Nov 1, 1892

[President Wilford Woodruff Journal] Nov 1 Politicks are raging in a scandilous manner throughout Utah Territory. ...

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

120 years ago today - Nov 1, 1892

[Francis M. Lyman] [With Franklin D. Richards to Rock Springs, Wyoming:] We talked much with the Bishop [Joseph Soulsby] and bro[ther] Fletcher over the political situation. The men here of our people lean strongly towards democracy, yet to be consistent they will generally support the Republican State ticket as they did two years ago. Bro[ther] Fletcher is a nominee for the state senate on Democratic ticket. He is a pronounced Democrat. But few of our brethren have alined themselves with either party and such are generally Republican. Bro[ther] Fletcher said he could not change his position now and we told him he should not, neither should those who supported the Republican ticket two years ago. The Bishop is of the opinion they will generally vote as they did there.

[Source: Francis M. Lyman, Diary]

135 years ago today - Nov 1, 1877

First Presidency Secretary L. John Nuttall records that John Taylor's birthday celebration was attended by "Prest. John Taylor, 6 wives, 17 sons, 8 daughters, 5 daughters-in-law, 3 sons-in-law, 7 grand sons and 6 grand daughters. Total 53."

[Source: Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/extensionsofpower]

170 years ago today - Nov 1, 1842

Joseph Smith baptizes Emma Smith for her health - "to the temple [the font being the only part completed] for the benefit of her health"

[Source: Quinn, D. Michael, "The Practice of Rebaptism at Nauvoo," BYU Studies (1978), 18:2:226]

185 years ago today - Thursday, Nov 01, 1827

[Book of Mormon Translation] Manchester, Plates are concealed under the cooper's shop floor.

[Source: Watson, Elden, Approximate Book of Mormon Translation Timeline, http://www.eldenwatson.net/BoM.htm]