170 years ago today - 170 years ago - Nov 30, 1845. Sunday.

[William Clayton on Nauvoo temple attic dedication] We then offered up the signs of the Holy Priesthood and repeated them to get them more perfect. I was requested to keep minutes. President offered up prayers and dedicated the Attic story, the male room and ourselves to God, and prayed that God would sustain and deliver from the hands of our enemies, his servants untill they have accomplished his will in this house. Elder Taylor then sang "A poor wayfaring man of grief &c." after which we again offered up the signs and Elder Kimball prayed that the Lord would hear and answer the prayers of his servant Brigham, break off the yoke of our enemies and inasmuch as they lay traps for the feet of his servants, that they may fall into them themselves and be destroyed, that God would bless his servant Joseph Young, heal his wife and bless his family, that God would bless and heal Elder Kimballs family and put the same blessings on all our families which he had asked for Joseph Young and himself.

Hans C. Hanson the door keeper reported that there were two officers waiting at the foot of the stairs for President Young. The President concluded that he could bear to tarry up in the warm as long as they could stay in the cold waiting for him. Brother Amasa Lyman requested hands to be laid on him that he may be healed. Five of the brethren laid hands on him.

We again offered up the signs and Joseph Young prayed that our enemies may have no power over our leaders. He prayed for our brethren in England, on the Islands, Brothers Babbit, Turley and Reddins, also that the Trustees may have means to liquidate all the debts.

At 3 o'clock we undressed.

The side rooms are occupied as follows. The 1 st on the south side by President B. Young. The 2nd by H. C. Kimball. 3rd and 4th others of the Twelve. 5th Joseph Young and presidency of 70's. 6 is a preparation room. On the north side 1st Bishops and Lesser Priesthood. 2nd, President of the Stake and High Council. 3 and 4, High Priests quorum. 5, Elders Quorum. 6 Preparation room.

Hans C. and Peter O. Hanson are appointed to see to the fires, keep watch and guard the doors &c.

[Source: George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]

25 years ago today - Nov 30, 1990

The government of Ghana gives the Church permission to resume public activities in that country. In June 1989, the government had expelled the Church's missionaries and confined worship services to private homes.

170 years ago today - Nov 30, 1845

[Heber C. Kimball on dedication of Nauvoo temple attic] Went to the Temple at 10 in the Morning. ... At about 12 Oclock we clothed our selves for prair and council. Levi Richards come in at About Half past one in the after noon. We offered up the Signs of the Holy Presthood. Joseph Kingsbury, B. Young being Mouth offered up the dedacation of the Hall and small rooms. Set a chort time then H. C. Kimball was mouth, then praid once more [and] Joseph Young was mouth. We then clothed our selvs. The Twelve war called to gether By the President in his room. P. P. Pratt had maters to lay before the Twelve. Doctor Richards and A. Limon quite sick. They ware praid for and ware beter. We onclothed [unclothed] our selves. ...

[Source: Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]

185 years ago today - Nov 30, 1830

George Washington Harris: A renouncing mason, married Lucinda Pendleton Morgan, widow of Masonic martyr William Morgan, 30 November 1830.

[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]

185 years ago today - Nov 30, 1830

Bible Translation of Manuscript: OT 1, 10-11

Text: Gen. 4:25-5:11 (Moses 5:52-6:18); Gen. 5:38-6:16 (JST)

Scribe: John Whitmer

[Source: Marquardt, H. Michael, The Four Gospels According to Joseph Smith, Xulon Press (2007), Chronology: Joseph Smith's Bible Revision, 1830-1835]

55 years ago today - Nov 29, 1960

Immediately after his official trip with [a] Birch council member in [November] 1960, Ezra Taft Benson proposed to Brigham Young University's president that his son Reed Benson be used for "espionage" on the church school campus. To Apostle Harold B. Lee, Reed explained that as a BYU faculty member, "he could soon find out who the orthodox teachers were and report to his father." After resisting Apostle Benson's proposal for Reed's employment, Ernest Wilkinson countered that "neither Brother Lee nor I want espionage of that character."

Apostle Benson's call in November 1960 for "espionage" at Brigham Young University reflected two dimensions of the national leadership of the John Birch Society. First, their long-time preoccupation with university professors as Communist- sympathizers ("Comsymps"). Second, the Birch program for covert "infiltration" of various groups. Apostle Benson's encouragement for espionage at BYU would be implemented periodically during the 1960s and 1970s by members and advocates of the John Birch Society.

Wilkinson's diary indicated that Ezra Taft Benson first made the proposal which Reed later outlined to Harold B. Lee.

[Source: Wilkinson diary, 29 Nov. 1960. Gary James Bergera and Ronald Priddis, Brigham Young University: A House of Faith (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1985), 203, mention Reed Benson's offer but not his father's support of the "espionage" proposal. 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.]

70 years ago today - Nov 29, 1945

First counselor J. Reuben Clark instructs a stake president that the First Presidency has no objection to church funerals for suicides, who can also be buried in temple clothing. Clark explains, "[W]e permitted it usually in suicide cases on the theory that no person in his right mind would commit suicide and as he was not in his right mind there was no crime involved." He adds, "I told him that the idea was to be as comforting to the family as possible, in cases of suicide the family had double grief."

[Source: The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]

135 years ago today - Nov 29, 1880

[Joseph F. Smith] Minutes of meetings read and corrected concerning the election of the First Presidency. Present: the First Presidency and W[ilford]. Woodruff and O[rson]. Pratt. It was unanimouslyagreed that members of the council of the Twelve should rank according to their ordination into the council and not by age nor previous ordination.

[Source: Joseph F. Smith Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]

170 years ago today - Nov 29, 1845. Saturday.

...Evening at President Youngs with The Band. President Young, H. C. Kimball, Joseph Young and Levi W. Hancock danced a french four together. The two former are the only two of the first twelve apostles who have never wavered since their appointment and the two latter are the only two of the first presidents of seventies who have never faltered. During the day the Twelve, Bishops Whitney and Miller and some others met in the Temple and laid the carpet on the main floor of the attic story, and also on several of the small rooms ready for the first quorum to meet in.

[Source: George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]

55 years ago today - Nov 28, 1960

Inasmuch as our old supply of temple recommends is exhausted, we are now printing and will soon have ready for distribution, a new stock. This has afforded us the opportunity of making some changes in the form which we deem will be helpful and beneficial to the work. ... To provide a safeguard against forgery you will note we are suggesting that the one who signs the recommend, which means the bishop or the branch president or the counselors, as the case may be, will initial each ordinance for which the applicant is being recommended. ... Upon inquiry we learned that there have been frequent instances where individuals who have not been endowed, and in some cases not presently worthy of a regular temple recommend for ordinances, have been given a recommend to witness a marriage. In place of this practice, which is contrary to the rule of the temple, you will find in these forms the statement "any applicant who has been personally endowed and who is presently worthy to do all ordinances for the dead may witness a temple marriage or sealing."... It is not conducive to temple work to have visitors going through as tourists.

[Source: David O. McKay, J. Reuben Clark Jr., and Henry D. Moyle, circular letter, Nov. 28, 1960, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]

105 years ago today - Nov 28, 1910

[George Albert Smith] left Grays Sanitarium

[Source: Journals of George Albert Smith]

115 years ago today - Nov. 28th, 1900

[Brigham Young Jr.] Evening Bro. Stevens and W. W. White came in blessed my son and at united request of those present and agreeable to my own feelings, gave him name of "Brigham."

[Source: Diary of Apostle Brigham Young Jr., http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

130 years ago today - Nov 28, 1885

Bodyguard Joseph W. McMurrin is shot twice in the stomach and nearly killed by U.S. deputy marshal Collins while he was seeking to arrest polygamists. Collins claims that four men with clubs attacked him in the alley, and one tried to shoot him. Seven witnesses support his account, and McMurrin's club is found at the scene. The court finds the marshal innocent of attempted murder. McMurrin is an active Mormon with a history of convictions for assault and battery going back seven years. He is the first Mormon bodyguard to be shot and becomes a general authority in 1897.

[Source: The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]

70 years ago today - Nov 27, 1945

Presiding Bishop LeGrand Richards coordinates the continued surveillance of the church-owned Belvedere Hotel and Temple Square Hotel to discover and stop the "evil practices" of tenants. For financial reasons this does not extend to the church's Hotel Utah.

[Source: The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]

Enoch Abel, son of Elijah Abel, ordained an Elder.

[African American crapo-blackh]

[Source: 19001127]

115 years ago today - Tuesday, Nov 27, 1900

A letter, addressed to Apostle F. M. Lyman by Elder Platte D. Lyman, president of the European Mission, was read. He spoke in reference to some deaf mutes in England, who professing belief in the gospel desired baptism. He was in doubt as to whether they should be given the privilege, as he feared they might possibly be disappointed in reference to some expectations they might have regarding the gift of healing. In such case the church would be injured. It was decided that if the mutes believe and have faith, they should not be denied baptism, and if they have sufficient faith to be healed, they could be healed.

[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]

175 years ago today - Nov 27, 1840

[Wilford Woodruff] ... "The floods & inundations of France of late has been dreadful & loss of property immense. I was informed one River was turned entirely out of its course & a stone found in the bed of the River bearing the following inscription: (He that findeth me shall weep.)"

[Source: 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 - Nov 27, 1835

[Joseph Smith] Much afflicted with my cold, yet able to be about. I am determined to overcom[e] in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Spent the day in reading Hebrew at home.

The weather continues cold and unpleasant. Br[other] Parrish my scribe being afflicted with a cold asked me to lay my hands on him. In the name of the Lord I did so and in return I asked him to lay his hands on me. We were both relieved.

[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1835-36, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]

85 years ago today - Nov 26, 1930

[The Great Depression] Transients were more and more in evidence. On 26 November 1930, according to the Deseret News, "More than 500 men who came to Salt lake City looking for work from other sections of the country have been picked up during the last three days by members of the police department and sent on their way". Unable to pay rent or meet mortgage payments, many families were dispossessed from their homes.

[Source: Utah History Encyclopedia: The Great Depression, http://www.uen.org/utah_history_encyclopedia/]

135 years ago today - Nov 26, 1880

Rev. Thomas DeWitt Talmage, a nationally known Protestant minister, preaches in Brooklyn, New York: "I tell you that Mormonism will never be destroyed until it is destroyed by the guns of the United States government. It would not be war. I hate war. It would be national police duty, executing the law against polygamy."

[Source: The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]

155 years ago today - Nov 26, 1860

[Wilford Woodruff] The New York Herrald of Nov 1 1860 Howls Bitterly at the prospet of the desolution of the American Union which is nigh [at] the door as the signs of the times indicate. South Carolina is the first to cecede according to the Revelation of the Lord through Joseph Smith given December 25 1835. Four other States have already signifyed their intention to follow. The papers are full of the speeches of Southern Statesmen Calling upon the South to arm themselves against the North & to secede from the Northern States. The times are quite warlike.

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

160 years ago today - Nov 26, 1855

[Hosea Stout] Court met at ten a. m. I commenced suit against Baker the prisoner and in favor of the perpetual Emmigrating Fund in the sum of $155.20. Mr Bair atty for defence who confessed judgement for the amount of the demand & execution issued.

[Source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

160 years ago today - Nov 25, 1855 (Council Meeting)

[Brigham Young] I want you [Orson Pratt] to let mysteries alone you made a gross mistake in printing Mother [Lucy Mack] Smith's history, there were too many thumping lies in it. Another was in publishing the marriage ceremony, and another was in diving into the mysteries of the Gods - Joseph said infants will remain in size and be filled, that is a great way this side of you - I expect to see an eternity variety... I cannot vouch for the truth of that book [Mother Smith's]- it mortifies me to see a bundle of lies printed no one of the Twelve ought to assume that authority or responsibility - I would not presume to do it myself there will be another addition - we shall leave out lots of things in it and many thing right to the reverse - I would rather every one was burnt up... You will find the Lord will put his hand over that [marriage ceremony] and hide it from the gentiles - if we hold our tongues about it.... suppose the Holy Ghost rested on you when you begat a child - it would rule the fallen nature in the seed - Asked Orson Pratt if he did not believe that Jesus was begotten by the Holy Ghost? (No)... If we are faithful we shall know and we shall become Adams and hand down from generation to generation that we were formed of the dust of the earth - our father and our children can say it of us with all propriety - our bodies are actually organized here - We shall get our bodies from this earth and be exalted - I believe that the rib made Eve as much as I can make a baby out of that dais (pointing to one). -- Salt Lake City

[Source: Leonard J. Arrington Papers, Special Collections, Merrill-Cazier Library, Utah State University, Logan 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 - Nov 25, 1840, Wednesday

[William Clayton] ... The saints frequently told us that the devil was over the river ...

[Source: Fillerup, Robert C., compiler; William Clayton Nauvoo Diaries and Personal Writings, A chronological compilation of the personal writings of William Clayton while he was a resident of Nauvoo, Illinois. http://www.boap.org/LDS/Early-Saints/clayton-diaries]

180 years ago today - Nov 25, 1835

[Joseph Smith] Spent the day in Translating [Egyptian records]. To day Harvey Redfield and Jesse Hitchcock ar[r]ived here from Missourie. The latter says that he has no doubt but that a dose of poison was administered to him in a boll [bowl] of milk, but God deli/vered him/.

[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1835-36, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]

30 years ago today - Nov 24, 1985

The second LDS fast day for African famine-relief ($4 million more donations).

[Source: The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]

50 years ago today - Nov 24, 1965

[Clare Middlemiss, McKay's secretary note] "President [Hugh B.] Brown said, 'Why cannot we have harmony?'

Clare answered, 'Yes, why?'

[Brown:] 'You got off the wrong track with me over the John Birch Society and Brother Benson.'

[Middlemiss:] 'I have only wanted to fight Communism, and have answered letters on the John Birch Society the way President McKay has told me to.'

President Brown said, 'I have wanted to fight Communism also, but not the way Benson or the John Birch Society are doing it —everybody is against them.'"

[Source: Clare Middlemiss, "Notes" 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)]

180 years ago today - Nov 24, 1835

Joseph Smith (specifically prohibited from performing the ceremony by the local county court) married Newell Knight (recently widowed) to Lydia G. Bailey. A state licensed Mormon Elder was available to do the marriage. Lydia was not divorced from her non-Mormon husband at the time. Newell wrote in his journal that Joseph Smith said "I have done it by the authority of the holy priesthood and the Gentile law has no power to call me to account for it. It is my religious privilege, and even the Congress of the United States has no power to make a law that would abridge the rights of my religion."

Lydia remembered Joseph saying, "Our Elders have been wronged and prosecuted for marrying without a license. The Lord God of Israel has given me authority to unite the people in the holy bonds of matrimony."

Joseph would perform five more illegal marriages over the next two months, calling one the "ancient order of marriage."

[Source: Brooke, John L. The Refiner's Fire: The Making of Mormon Cosmology, 1644-1844. Cambridge: Cambridge UP, 1994. p.212]

105 years ago today - Wednesday, Nov 23, 1910

[Second Counselor John Henry Smith] I also spoke upon the question of Morality advocating the same standard for men as women.

[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]

115 years ago today - Nov 23, 1900

Editorial in the Democratic Salt Lake Herald: "It is not likely that the active participation of church apostles in campaigns will ever be abandoned until the church realizes that such participation is injurious to church interests, as their best friends and a host of their own people believe."

[Source: The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]

160 years ago today - Nov 23, 1855

[Hosea Stout] Court met. Grand Jury presented Indictment against James Hart, John and Thomas Hildreth, Andrew Tippetts & Robert Lazenby for murder of Too-ebe an Indian on Meadow Creek[.] This is the same Indian which Levi Abrams was indicted and tried for killing

The court adjourned and I wrote an Indictment against Naw-oo-guich et al. Indians for the murder of Capt Gunnison and party on the 26th Oct 1853

Snowing this evening at dark[.] Robison and King gave an Oyster Supper and party to their boarders and friends this evening at which we eat oysters and danced and danced and eat oyster untill one a. m.

[Source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

185 years ago today - Circa Nov 23, 1830

About a couple of weeks since, three men, calling themselves Oliver Cowdry, David Whitmer and Martin Harris, appeared in our village, laden with a new revelation, which they claim to be a codicil to the New Testament. . . .

The account which they give is substantially as follows:--at a recent period an angel appeared to a poor ignorant man residing in or near Palmyra in Ontario County in the State of New York, directed him to open the earth at a place designated, where he would find the new revelation engraved on plates of metal. In obedience to the celestial messenger, Smith repaired to the spot, and on opening the ground discovered an oblong stone box tightly closed with cement. He opened the sacred depository and found enclosed a bundle of plates resembling gold, carefully united at one edge with three silver wires so that they opened like a book. The plates were about 7 inches long and 6 broad, and the whole pile was about 6 inches deep, each plate about the thickness of tin. They were engraved in a character unintelligible to the learned men of the United States, to many of whom it is said they have been presented. The angel afterwards appeared to the three individuals, and showed them the plates. To Smith was given to translate the character[s] which he was enabled to do by looking through two semi-transparent stones, but as he was ignorant of the art of writing, Cowdry and the others wrote as Smith interpreted. They say that part of the plates escaped from them in a supernatural manner and are to be again revealed when the events of the time shall require them. . . .

[Source: "Delusion," Geauga (OH) Gazette, circa 23 November 1830, as reprinted in Morning Courier and New-York Enquirer, 7 December 1830., as cited in Dan Vogel, Early Mormon Documents: Geauga (Oh) Gazette]

70 years ago today - Nov 22, 1945

[George Albert Smith] ... We talked about the equality of the Negro and association of races. The Lord has the last decision and if we will be fair to all he will bless us.

[Source: George Albert Smith Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]

115 years ago today - Nov 22, 1900; Thursday

... After the opening exercises a letter from Professor Joshua H. Paul asking that the L.D.S. College be opened was read and on motion granted. The college was closed on account of the smallpox....

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

140 years ago today - Nov 22, 1875

[Patriarchal Blessing of Mary Ann Dowdle by Charles W. Hyde]

... I seal upon you health, from the crown of your head to the sole of your feet, that you may begin to amend from this very moment for the father has given his angels charge over thee, that you may live long upon earth, live until the winding up scene of this generation to accomplish every desire of thine heart in righteousness. ...

[Source: Patriarchal Blessings]

160 years ago today - Nov 22, 1855

Brigham Young secretly ordains his eleven-year-old son John W. an apostìe in connection with receiving the endowment. He also ordains his eighteen-year-old son Brigham Jr. as apostle, either this day or (more likely) at his namesake's endowment a few days earlier. The Twelve doesn't learn of these ordinations for almost nine years. In later years he secretly ordains two other sons as apostles.

[Wilford Woodruff related, "President Young said, 'I am going to tell you something that I have never before mentioned to any other person. I have ordained my sons, Joseph A., Brigham & John W., Apostles and My Counsellors. Have you any objections?' J. Taylor and G. A. Smith said they had not, that it was his own affair & they considered it under his own direction. He further stated, 'In ordaining my sons I have done no more than I am perfectly willing that you should do with yours. And I am determined to put my sons into active service in the Spiritual Affairs of the Kingdom and keep them there just as long as possible. You have the same privilege.'"]

[Source: The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]

115 years ago today - Nov 21, 1900; Wednesday

Governor [Frank] Steunenberg of Idaho called and paid his respects to President Snow and Cannon. He stated that there was a friendly feeling towards our people in his state and that the recent charge of the Church interfering in politics in that state were known by the people to have been unfounded.

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

120 years ago today - Nov 21, 1895

Attended council at Temple as usual ... After closing prayer by J[oseph]. F. Smith, Some Secret operations were disclosed by Pres[iden]t. Smith-- concerning parties at work for Co[lonel]. [Isaac] Trumbo among members elect to the Legislature to get him elected as one Senator from Utah to Congress he being in the interest of Spreckles & the Southern Pacific Rail-Road. It is understood his Bail is open. J[ohn] W Taylor is to see Pres[iden]t Geo[rge] Parkinson of Oneida Stake & regulate his ideas.

[Source: Franklin D. Richards Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]

130 years ago today - Nov 21, 1885

A deputy U.S. marshal is the first anti-Mormon to be arrested for the complaint of "lewd and lascivious conduct" signed by Brigham Y. Hampton, a Salt Lake City policeman. Hampton pays a professional madam to operate a brothel so that Mormon policemen can obtain evidence against those prominent in the anti-polygamy crusade. Hampton conducts his brothel espionage with the knowledge of the Salt Lake Presidency. A Deseret News editorial on 14 Dec 1885 argues in support of the brothel espionage: "It was the only way by which their guilt could be proven beyond question. It was disgusting business, no doubt. But which was the most disgusting, the detestation of their bestiality, or the acts which were witnessed?" Federal judge Charles S. Zane infuriates Mormons by quashing all those indictments with the argument: "A private act is not defined by the common law as a crime. When both parties go together out of the sight of everyone under the Connecticut law it is not an offense." Hampton is then tried and sentenced to one year in the penitentiary for conspiracy and for operating a brothel. The First Presidency later compensates him financially.

[Source: The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]

130 years ago today - Nov 21, 1885 (Saturday)

Lorenzo Snow plead not guilty [to cohabitation] in the First District Court, in Ogden, and was admitted to bail.

[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

135 years ago today - Nov 21, 1880

Mary Elizabeth Rollins Lightner wrote in a letter to Emmeline B. Wells

"He [Joseph Smith Jr.] was commanded to take me for a wife," and ""I could tell you why I stayed with Mr. Lightner. Things the leaders of the Church does not know anything about. I did just as Joseph told me to do, as he knew what troubles I would have to contend with.""

[Source: Exploring Mormonism: Polygamy Timeline, http://www.exploringmormonism.com/polygamy-timeline/]

140 years ago today - Nov 21, 1875

Local bishop reports that first counselor "George A. Smith preached in Salina, Sevier County last year and said that THE SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST will be here on Earth in 1891" (emphasis in original)

[Source: The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]

175 years ago today - Nov 21, 1840. Saturday.

Elder Turley and some others camped in the wood. He spake much to them and [called] upon those who had had quarrels to forgive each and manifest it. Many acknowledged their faults and asked forgiveness. Some spake in tongues and Wm. Poole interpreted. It was a time of rejoicing.

[Source: George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]

180 years ago today - Nov 21, 1835

Joseph Smith begins to study on his own the Hebrew lexicon and Hebrew books he received from New York City the previous day. He decides to pay for the services of a qualified Jewish teacher.

[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]

30 years ago today - Nov 20, 1985

Mark Hofmann's attorney announces that Hofmann passed the polygraph test and thus did not kill Sheets and Christensen.

[Source: Whittaker, David J., The Hofmann Maze, A Book Review Essay with a Chronology and Bibliography of the Hofmann Case, BYU Studies Vol. 29, No. 1, pg.80,]

130 years ago today - Nov 20, 1885

[Wilford Woodruff] "I was Just informed that Lorenzo Snow was arested at Brigham City." [He was returning from a mission among Indian tribes in the Northwest, when arrested for unlawful cohabitation. After a trial and unsuccessful appeals, he was taken to the Utah Territorial Penitentiary on March 12, 1886.]

[Source: 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 - Nov 20, 1835

[Joseph Smith] We spent the day in translating [from Egyptian papyri] and made rapid progress.

At evening, President [Oliver] Cowdery returned from New York bringing with him a quantity of Hebrew books for the benefit of the school. He presented me with a Hebrew Bible, lexicon and grammar, also a Greek Lexicon and Webster's English Lexicon.

[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1835-36, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]

185 years ago today - Nov 20, 1830

Letter to the Editor: "You have probably heard of the Gold Bible taken from the earth by Joseph, the money-digger. This he has translated from the Egyptian reformed language to English, by a pair of stone spectacles (provided by an angel) and a dark hat before his eyes. The books have been printed, and J.S. [Josiah Stowell?] and Mr. N--s [Joseph Knight(s), Sr.?] are engaged in peddling the same. The society are increasing. Eighteen have been baptized in a day. ... The leaders pretend to cast out devils and work miracles, heal the sick, &c. We have seen none of their miracles here, except N.N. [Newel Knight] I heard say in meeting, that he had the devil cast out." I just add, that I have been almost in contact with these peddlers in different parts of this county, having my information from them only through most credible second hand informers, who state that they said, they know the book, and the manner in which it is said to have been found, was true; or that they did not believe it, but know it. They are said to be respectable men. The wife of one of them, though immersed formerly by an Elder in this county, has been immersed or baptized again into this new system. I only state facts, and leave the judicious and pious to their own reflections.

CLERICUS.

[Source: Letter to editor, Brattleboro' (VT) Messenger, 20 November 1830., as cited in Dan Vogel, Early Mormon Documents: Brattleboro' (Vt) Messenger]

50 years ago today - Nov 19, 1965

David O. McKay met privately with Ezra Taft Benson, who "gave a report on the serious inroads the Communists have made in this country…. I am convinced that our country is already on the road to Socialism, and that the Communists are making gains here." Benson then suggested that McKay's new counselor, Thorpe Isaacson, be sent to a two-day John Birch Society seminar in December to learn about "Communism and conditions in our country." McKay agreed. Isaacson later elected not to go to the seminar.

[Source: 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)]

95 years ago today - Nov 19, 1920; Friday

[Apostle Anthony Ivins] Should children who are not in the church be permitted to partake of the sacrement.[?]

[Source: 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]

100 years ago today - Nov 19, 1915

Joe Hill was executed on 19 November 1915 after appeals for clemency from Helen Keller, President Woodrow Wilson, and the Swedish ambassador were ignored, although there were many who believed Joe Hill was innocent.

[Source: Utah History Encyclopedia: Capital Punishment, http://www.uen.org/utah_history_encyclopedia/]

125 years ago today - Nov 19, 1890

[President Wilford Woodruff] I had an interview with Joseph L Lee a hunter and preacher of the Josephite [RLDS] Order. He wanted me to let him have our tabernacles to preach in & warn the people to go back to Jackson County & those who did not go would be Destroyed. I told him we did not believe in him or his mission.

A Colored woman Called upon me & wanted us to make a Donation to help them to build a Methodist Meeting House

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

160 years ago today - Nov 19, 1855

The grand jury presented ... indictments against John F. Coffman & Joseph Holman for trading with the Indians.

[Source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

105 years ago today - Nov 18, 1910

[Joseph F. Smith & Anthon Lund] This is in answer to President B[righam]. A. Hendricks' letter to you of the 4th ult. with respect to the right of Negroes to be baptized in behalf of their deceased ancestors. It is true, as intimated in yours of Oct[ober]. 25th to President Hendricks that no ordinances are being performed in the temple in behalf of deceased Negroes, neither can temple ordinances be performed in behalf of the Negro race involving the bestowal of the holy priesthood upon them. But inasmuch as Negroes living in the flesh can become members of the Church through baptism, we do not hesitate to say that Negroes may be baptized and confirmed in behalf of their kindred dead, which is all that can be done for tem until the Lord shall direct otherwise.

But in thus answering we do not wish President Hendricks or his successors in office to encourage the Negro saints of South Africa to emigrate to Zion in order that they may be in a position to do temple work in behalf of their dead. In fact, the same general instructions apply to our elders with respect to the Negro race as applies to them with respect to the whites, and that is not to preach the gathering or encourage any to emirate, but rather to leave this entirely with the saints themselves, so that they cannot truthfully blame the Church should any of them come here and become dissatisfied and want to return.

We note that President Hendricks says in his letter to you in effect that the labors of himself and elders are among the white class of people, and not the blacks. This is as it should be, and we trust that this understanding will be clearly had by all of our missionaries laboring in South Africa, and who may be called to labor there hereafter. In the Book of Moses (Pearl of Great Price) Chapter 7, verse 12, we learn that Enoch in his day called upon all the people to repent save the people of Canaan, and it is for us to do likewise. But at the same time where honest-hearted Negroes who perchance hear the gospel preached, become pricked in their hearts and ask for baptism, it would not by becoming in us to refuse to administer that ordinance in their behalf. And where such brethren and sisters desire to have their temple work done in behalf of their deceased kindred, let them furnish the Mission President with the names of their dead, together with the genealogy, as fully as they may be able to give it, who may forward the same to us, and we will see that baptism is performed in their behalf, and we will instruct the temple recorder to inform the Mission President when the work shall have been done.

[Source: Joseph F. Smith and Anthon H. Lund, Letter to Rudger Clawson, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]

125 years ago today - Nov 18, 1890

A saloon has been opened in Deseret by one of the brethren--Hawley. He has built a nice brick structure, and had a dance there last night and another tonight for opening. Nearly all the Saints attended[,] a notice of the parties having been given in Sunday meeting, and the proprietor of the saloon having been called to dismiss the meeting.

[Source: Abraham H. Cannon (Author), Edward Leo Lyman (Editor), Candid Insights of a Mormon Apostle: The Diaries of Abraham H. Cannon, 1889-1895, Signature Books]

155 years ago today - Nov 18, 1860

[Brigham Young] Right where the Prophet Joseph laid the foundation of the Temple, in the center stake of Zion, was where God commenced the garden of Eden, and there he will end or consummate his work, and the law will go forth from Zion that will govern every nation under the heavens. In the day of the Lord Jesus every man that remains will be filled with the spirit of judgment, and with the knowledge and power of God. The Lord opened the gold mines of California to make this people as a light upon a hill, and we did not come here, as some supposed, to be hid up from the world for ever.

[Source: Deseret News, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]

185 years ago today - Nov 18, 1830

Colesville, Nov: 18: 1830. Rev & Dear Sir ... I will relate a circumstance that has given me pain. A member of the church in Sandford, a young female, has renounced her connexion with the church, and joined a church <<another>> in Colesville founded by Joseph Smith. This man has been known, in these parts, for some time, as a kind of juggler, who has pretended, through a glass, to see money under ground &c, &c. The book, on which he founds his new religion, is called the "Book of Mormon." It contains not much, and is rather calculated to suit the marvelous, and unthinking. part of the world. No man in his right mind can think the Book or the doctrines it contains, worthy of the least notice, yet there are a number who profess to believe in it. Since the church was formed, which was some time in July, about twenty have gathered around their standard, and have [p. 2] subscribed themselves to be the followers [of] Christ; for they call themselves a church of Christ, and the only church of Christ. All professing christians who do not adhere to their system, they consider as formalists; "having the form of Godliness, but denying the power." They have pretended to work miracles, such as casting out devils, and many other things, too blasphemous to mention.--It is believed, however, they have [atta]ined to about the zenith of their glory in this place. Their books remain unsold; <<; except>> [-] here and there an individual, none will buy them. It is thought the great speculation, which they probably anticipated, will prove a losing busi=ness. ... Yours in Bonds of christian Affection.

John Sherer



[Source: John Sherer to Absalom Peters, 18 November 1830, American Home Missionary Society Archives, Amistad Research Center, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana., as cited in Dan Vogel, Early Mormon Documents: John Sherer To Absalom Peters]

70 years ago today - 70 years ago - Nov 17, 1945

Because of age related issues, George Albert Smith replaced Elder's Widstoe and McKay with Ezra Taft Benson to head the European relief mission. Harold B. Lee remembered, "speculating as to who would be called. One of the first men I eliminated was Elder Benson, who had the largest family as well as the youngest."

[Source: Gary James Bergera, "Ezra Taft Benson's 1946 Mission to Europe" Journal of Mormon History 34:2 (Spring 2008)]

90 years ago today - 90 years ago - Nov 17, 1925

"Professor [Andrew] Neff, a graduate of the California University, desired to have free access to the original documents in the Historian's office as he was writing a history of Utah." The First Presidency rules that "under proper supervision, we had no objections." Although Neff is LDS, this is the first occasion in which an "outside" scholar and historian has "free access" to manuscripts of the LDS archives. Such access remains infrequent and exceptional until the appointment of Apostle Howard W. Hunter as church historian in 1970.

[Source: The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]

115 years ago today - 115 years ago - Nov 17, 1900; Saturday

Apostle John W. Taylor was present [at stake conference] and spoke powerfully upon the present condition and aspect of the work of the Lord. Said the three Nephite apostles would soon begin their labors among the nations and would break down the barriers that now prevent the carrying of the gospel to various nations. He said they would also visit the saints and many would not be able to recognize them because of the unfaithfulness of the people themselves. Said there were many in the congregation before him would would go upon missions to the various nations in the near future. He exhorted all to put themselves in order and for parents to have the patriarch to bless their children.

[Source: James D. Cummings, Diary]

135 years ago today - 135 years ago - Nov 17, 1880

Editor Deseret News:

For some time I have heard rumors of a document going the rounds, particularly in the Southern part of the Territory, purporting to be a "Vision by Joseph F. Smith." A copy of this document was to-day handed to me by a friend. Having read it, I deem it my duty to announce through the NEWS, that so far as this pretended vision has been connected with my name it is a fraud. I never had such a vision and am wholly ignorant of its author, and my name has been used in connection with it entirely without my knowledge. By inserting the above in the NEWS you will correct any false impressions which may have arisen in the minds of the people concerning this matter, and oblige your brother in the Gospel.

JOS. F. SMITH.

[Source: Deseret Evening News, 17 November 1880 [Letter to the editor by Joseph F. Smith]]

170 years ago today - 170 years ago - Nov 17, 1845, Monday

[William Clayton] Monday 17th ... My heart is grieved to see the difference of spirit, feeling and courses of Bishops Whitney & Miller. They appear to be at antipodes with each other in nearly all their operations. They have placed me as a mark for both to shoot at, and it has placed me in a very unpleasant situation. Miller seems angry with me because I appear to give preference to Whitney & which I consider I ought to do inasmuch as he is the Senior Bishop and is far more careful in his management than brother Miller is. The latter is perfectly wasteful and wild in his business transactions and I if he had the management of the Temple business alone, he would soon wind it up and scatter it to ruin. ...

[Source: Fillerup, Robert C., compiler; William Clayton Nauvoo Diaries and Personal Writings, A chronological compilation of the personal writings of William Clayton while he was a resident of Nauvoo, Illinois. http://www.boap.org/LDS/Early-Saints/clayton-diaries]

180 years ago today - Nov 17, 1835

[Wilford Woodruff] ... I in company with Seth Utley & Br Loy & his family were called out in the night to view the signs in the heavens Which was three clouds having the appearance of fire & blood one in the North one in the East one in the West each about the size of an acre of ground. They arose from the Earth into the air. Frequently changed their places.

[Source: 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 - Nov 17, 1835

Joseph exhibits the alphabet of the ancient records to Mr. Holmes, and goes with him and Frederick G. Williams to see the mummies.

[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]

190 years ago today - Nov 17, 1825

Near South Bainbridge, New York. Joseph Smith continued his employment on Josiah Stowell's farm, although the mine excavation in Harmony, Pennsylvania, had ended.

[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 16, 1975

The Paris, France Stake was created. This was the first Stake created in France.

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

105 years ago today - Nov 16, 1910; Wednesday

[Apostle Rudger Clawson] "... [it is] the obligation resting upon the elders to carry the gospel to the white race and perform ordinances for the ancestors of the white race. If a negro has faith in the Gospel, repents of his sins and applies ... for baptism, he cannot be denied this precious blessing. ... [The] progeny of a white man who mingles his seed with that of a negro, are to be regarded as negroes."

[Source: Rudger Clawson, letter to Brigham A. Hendricks, October 25, 1910, LDS Archives, in Charles W. Penrose, Diary]

130 years ago today - Nov 16, 1885

[Wilford Woodruff] ... sat up untill midnight reading Revelations, visions & Dreams & talking of the signs of the times.

[Source: 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 - Nov 16, 1845

[Hosea Stout] ... met the police and there was informed that Br Edmund Durfee had been shot dead by the mob on Bear Creek

The mob had set some straw on fire which would communicate with his barn & he on discovering the fire ran in company with some other brethren to put it out and was fired upon by the mob who concealed in the darkness one ball went through his breast and he died in a few moments. He had been driven into the City by the mob during their house burning in September last & had gone down there in company with some other brethren to take care of his grain and thus fell a martyr to his religion

I went to see. He was in a heart rending condition all steeped in his gore and his numerous family all weeping around him. The scene is one not to be forgotten. He was one of the oldes[t] in the church having been in the church almost from its rise and had passed through all the persecutions & vicissitudes of the Church & was a faithful Brother.

[Source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

65 years ago today - 65 years ago - Nov 15, 1950

[George Albert Smith] Arthur [Haycock] brought up Dr. Thomas C. Romney and I talked to him about the book he intends to write about President Snow at the request of Le Roy Snow. I cautioned Brother Romney that there were some things I did not think fitting to have in the book. Brother Romney understands the situation.

[Source: George Albert Smith Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]

135 years ago today - 135 years ago - Nov 15, 1880

[Patriarchal Blessing of James E. Talmage] Brother James, by virtue of the Holy Priesthood, I place my hands upon thy head, and seal the blessings of the New and Everlasting Covenant upon thee, with all the gifts and privileges promised unto the sons of Zion ... it is thy privilege and the will of the Lord that you should become a mighty man in Israel, and travel much for the gospel's sake, and assist in gathering the honest in heart from among the nations of the earth; ... for the spirit of the Lord shall direct thy course, strengthen thy memory and give thee power over thy enemies and peace shall be in thy circle... thy guardian angel will whisper in thy ear and warn thee of danger, and give thee power over the adversary, and prolong thy days and years upon the earth. ... Thou shalt also be prospered in the labor of thy hands, therefore, look forward to the future with pleasure, for thy last days shall be thy best days. ...

[Source: Patriarchal Blessings]

180 years ago today - 180 years ago - Nov 15, 1835

. . . thus saith the the Lord unto my Servant Joseph concerning my servant Warren [Parish], behold his sins are forgiven him ... behold it shall come to pass in his day that he shall <see> great things shew forth themselves unto my people, he shall see much of my ancient records, and shall know of hiden things, and shall be endowed with a knowledge of hiden languages, and if he desires and Shall seek it at my hand, he shall be privileged with writing much of my word, as a scribe unto me for the benefit of my people, therefore this shall be his calling until I shall order it otherwise in my wisdom and it shall be said of him in a time to come, behold Warren the Lords Scribe, for the Lords Seer whom he hath appointed in Israel

[Source: Joseph Smith Diary, quoted in Exploring Mormonism: Kirtland Safety Society Timeline, http://www.exploringmormonism.com/kirltand-safety-society-timeline-note-this-was-built-back-in-january-2013/]

185 years ago today - Nov 5, 1830

185 years ago - Nov 5, 1830, John Murdock reported that upon being baptized, "the spirit of the Lord sensibly attended the ministration, and I came out of the water rejoicing and singing praises to God [possibly singing in tongues] and the Lamb." [John Murdock, "Autobiography," 12, 15, 16]


170 years ago today - Nov 15, 1845

The Times and Seasons publishes Eliza R. Snow's poem, "My Father in Heaven." Now the most famous LDS hymn written by a woman, it proposes a Heavenly Mother equal in status to a male consort. General's 1843 revelation on the new and everlasting covenant of marriage declared that when a couple's marriage is sealed by the Holy Spirit: "then shall they be gods, because they have all power, and the angels are subject unto them," implying the same.

[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]

120 years ago today - Thursday, Nov 14, 1895

"[George Q. Cannon] felt that some investigation should be had of the conduct of [Apostle Moses] Thatcher & [Seventy B. H.] Roberts before they receive any ecclesiastical appointments in the Church. Pres. Snow said he could not fellowship them until they made things right, nor could any of the Quorum do so. It was decided to leave any investigation of their affairs until after Statehood, as trouble might otherwise ensue because of the exercise of church discipline."

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

180 years ago today - Nov 14, 1835

Joseph told his story to Erastus Holmes:"…I received the first visitation of Angels which was when I was about 14 years old…"("The Personal Writings of Joseph Smith", p.113, Also in "An American Prophet's Record", p. 59)

This account has been changed in the "History of the Church", Vol.2, p.312. It now reads "my first vision" instead of "visitation of angels."

[Source: A Documented History of Joseph Smith's First Vision, http://beggarsbread.org/2013/04/01/a-documented-history-of-joseph-smiths-first-vision/]

185 years ago today - Nov 14, 1830

Sidney S Rigdon: Baptized 14 November 1830, in Mentor, Ohio.

[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]

25 years ago today - Nov 13, 1990

In 1991 Utah membership of the John Birch Society mushroomed as a result of U.S. president George Bush's proclaiming U.S. participation in a "New World Order." As part of the United Nations successful Gulf War, President Bush adopted a phrase used by ultra-conservatives for decades to identify the "collectivist" goal of the international conspiracy. By May 1991, Utah had 1,000 members of the Birch Society, an increase of nearly 50 percent from two years earlier.

[Source: John F. McManus, "'A New World Order' Means World Government," The John Birch Society Bulletin (Nov. 1990): 3-14; "Birch Society Lauds 'Fertile Soil' In Utah," Deseret News, 13 May 1991, B-2; "Utah's Birchers Organizing To Fight Bush 'Conspiracy,'" Salt Lake Tribune, 27 May 1991, B-l; "John Birch Society Skeptical of Communist Party Demise," Salt Lake Tribune, 8 Sept. 1991, B-l; '"John Bircher' Recruits Join Fight Against New World Order," Salt Lake Tribune, 21 June 1992, B-l. 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.]

50 years ago today - Nov 13, 1965

Ernest L. Wilkinson, President of BYU says in a talk that BYU did not intend to admit any homosexuals to campus. He continued, "if any of you have this tendency and have not completely abandoned it, may I suggest that you leave the university immediately after this assembly…we do not want others on this campus to be contaminated by your presence."

[Source: Timeline of Mormon Thinking About Homosexuality, http://rationalfaiths.com/timeline-of-mormon-thinking-about-homosexuality/]

60 years ago today - Nov 12, 1955

Flora Benson, wife of Ezra Taft Benson, was named national "Home Maker of the Year."

[Source: Church News, November 12, 1955; Gary James Bergera, "Weak-Kneed Republicans and Socialist Democrats": Ezra Taft Benson as U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, 1953-61, Part 2, Dialogue : A Journal of Mormon Thought, (Winter 2008, vol 41)]

130 years ago today - Nov 12, 1885

[Wilford Woodruff] The funeral of my wife Phebe was attended to day at the 14 ward school House. I saw the procession as it Past the office. I saw the hearse that Carried my wife Phebe Whitemore Carter Woodruff to the grave. I was not permitted to attend her funeral without being arrested for my religin, & Imprisioned for Cohabitation with my wives as many others are.

[Source: 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 - Nov 12, 1835

Joseph tells the Twelve that he thought that he had placed the church on a permanent foundation by organizing the stake of Zion. But he is still alive, so there must be something more for him to do, and that is the ordinance of washing of feet, which he then administers.

[Source: Kenney, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://web.archive.org/web/20120805163534/saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml]

170 years ago today - Nov 12, 1845

[Heber C. Kimball] Last evening I dreamed of seeing a large quentity of honey Bees, they were following me being loaded heavily with honey; they were very peacibly with me. ... Clo[t]hed our selvs and praid as follows that our enimes be flustrated, to sell our posessions, and so forth. Brock up at dark. ...

[Source: Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]

130 years ago today - Nov 11, 1885

Salt Lake City police fine LDS Deputy Sheriff Andrew J. Burt $25 for the assault and battery on U.S. Deputy marshal Henry F. Collin. Three days later the district court sentences him to five days' imprisonment for the crime.

[Source: The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]

150 years ago today - Nov 11, 1865

New Masonic activity in Utah created a furor and presented a conflict between two unyielding Masonic groups over a basic principle. When fourteen Masons, led by James M. Ellis, met in Salt Lake City on 11 November 1865 they petitioned the Grand Lodge of Nevada for a dispensation (temporary authorization). Grand Master DeBell responded 25 January 1866, with the stipulation that "No Mormon be accepted for the Degrees," later adding, "or to be admitted as a visitor." These rigid provisions were due in part to the history of animosity against Mormons in other states, but were based largely on the experience of Nevadans with Mormons, especially at Genoa, formerly Mormon Station.

[Source: Utah History Encyclopedia: Freemasonry in Utah, http://www.uen.org/utah_history_encyclopedia/]

30 years ago today - Nov 10, 1985

Non-Mormon journalists noted: "In the past Benson's heavy-handed political maneuvering has antagonized numerous members of the [LDS] church, leading to fears of a major schism if he became president."

When he ascended to that office in November 1985, church officials insisted that Benson's political activism was "in the past."

[Source: Dew, Ezra Taft Benson, 486-87, 469-70 ; Bob Gottlieb and Peter Wiley, "Mormons to the Right," San Jose Mercury News, 1 Dec. 1985, 9; also "Possibility of Benson Heading Mormons Worries Some With Different Views," Los Angeles Times, 1 Apr. 1976, Pt. 1,32; "Mormon Church Faces A Fresh Challenge . . . But Now, A Change of Leaders May Bring A Split In Its Ranks," U.S. News & World Report 95 (21 Nov. 1983): 61; "Conservative Seeking Leadership Worries Some Mormons," Baltimore Sun, 11 Dec. 1983, A-3; Gottlieb and Wiley, America's Saints, 247, 257; "Mormon Church Council Meets To Pick New Leader," Dallas Morning News, 11 Nov. 1985, A-4; "New Chief of Mormons: Ezra Taft Benson," New York Times, 19 Nov. 1985, A-16; also Robert Lindsey, "The Mormons: Growth, Prosperity and Controversy," New York Times Magazine, 12 Jan. 1986, 46. 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.]

30 years ago today - Nov 10, 1985

The Quorum of the Twelve sustains Ezra Taft Benson as the church president with Gordon B. Hinckley and Thomas S. Monson as counselors, and ordains President Benson. Benson is the first LDS church president with a graduate degree (M.S. from Iowa State University). Also, the First Presidency and apostles vote for Howard W. Hunter as Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve due to the incapacity of Marion G. Romney. Although 'non compos mentis,' Romney is now next in apostolic seniority to the church president and eligible for automatic succession in the event of Benson's death. This situation continues until Romney's death in 1988, during which time the church president has a heart attack.

[Source: The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]

55 years ago today - Nov 10,1960

Brigham Young University's president tells Executive Committee of BYU's trustees "about a colored boy on campus having been a candidate for the vice presidency of a class and receiving a very large vote." The three apostles present want to exclude all African Americans from BYU. "If a granddaughter of mine should ever go the BYU and become engaged to a colored boy," Apostle Harold B. Lee fumes, "I would hold you responsible!"

[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]

70 years ago today - Nov 10, 1945

The last listing of causes in a weekly list of named excommunicants in the Church News. Up to now the most common reasons are apostasy and "violating the law of chastity."

[Source: The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]

105 years ago today - Nov 10, 1910

[Rudger Clawson] No work is being done in the Temples at present neither has any been done in the past for the negro saints. Priesthood cannot be given to a negro and this rule apears to hold good regarding other ordinances of the Temple.

... [it is] the obligation resting upon the elders to carry the gospel to the white race and perform ordinances for the ancestors of the white race. If a negro has faith in the Gospel, repents of his sins and applies ... for baptism, he cannot be denied this precious blessing. ... [The] progeny of a white man who mingles his seed with that of a negro, are to be regarded as negroes.

[Source: Rudger Clawson, Letter to Brigham A. Hendricks, October 25, 1910, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]

105 years ago today - Thursday, Nov 10, 1910

Minutes of the Council of the Twelve and of the First Presidency: Letter read from President B.A. Hendricks of the South African Mission, dated October 4, addressed to President Rudger Clawson, stating in substance that a serious race question was confronting himself and associates, missionaries, on account of the doctrine having been taught to some of the negro saints that they could perform certain ordinances in the House of the Lord, and he desired an answer to this question: "Is it possible for a promiscuously bred white and negro to be baptized for the dead?" adding that a great many blacks had become members of the Church in South Africa, and were good, honest people. President Hendricks also stated that by asking this question he did not wish it to be inferred that he and his fellow missionaries were directing their work among the white race.

President [Joseph F.] Smith remarked that he saw no reason why a negro should not be permitted to have access to the baptismal font in the temple to be baptized for the dead, inasmuch as negroes are entitled to become members of the Church by baptism.

[Source: George Albert Smith Papers, Manuscripts Division, Marriott Library, University of Utah, quoted at Marquardt, H. Michael, Mormon Central: Excerpts From Minutes of the Council of the Twelve and of the First Presidency, 1879-1947 http://www.xmission.com/~research/central/chorg2.htm]

110 years ago today - Friday, Nov 10, 1905

At 10 a.m. at the office of the First Presidency ... It was decided to publish a Document on the question of the one mighty and strong spoken of in the D.&C.

[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]

115 years ago today - Nov. 10th, 1900

[Brigham Young Jr.] Pres. W. Woodruff's Monument was dedicated today. Cost $1500.00 so I am informed.

[Source: Diary of Apostle Brigham Young Jr., http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

120 years ago today - Nov 10, 1895

[Apostle Francis M. Lyman] After school closed [Sunday] I sat down with bro[ther] Alma and Joshua Greenwood and James Melville in the same school room to talk over the political wounds we have given and received. I frankly conceded that most of what bro[ther] Alma had stated about me in print was correct. Some was not true ... Bro[ther] Joshua was not feeling so ugly as Alma and James. They held that my censure of them at conference in Meadow some years ago was much of it unnecessary and harsh. I frankly admitted that may have been, but if they would write down all there was of that kind I would gladly go before the stake conference at any time and state that I was sorry I use those words that were necessarily harsh and retract every one of them. They concluded it would not be necessary and would let the whole matter drop... We closed up in good spirits much better then we commenced with. We forgave and loved each other. Bro[ther] Alma was severely set against B[isho]p Callister for his partisanship and a campaign song he composed and sung frequently in which bro[ther] Greenwood was sarcastically mentioned. ... I also spoke freely of the political battle and said if there was one soul who has been influenced by me in the Stake to be a Republican, I wanted them to free that influence. I never hinted nor did I believe I had used church influence. A unanimous vote approved as good sound and safe doctrine all I said. ... My visit in Fillmore I believe is a very fortunate one [made peace with wife Susan].

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

125 years ago today - Nov 10, 1890

"The Prophet went to the home of President Taylor, and said to him, 'Brother John, I WANT LEONORA,' 'If GOD wants Leonora He can have her..'. 'I don't want your wife, I just wanted to know just where you stood'"

[Source: Prophet Wilford Woodruff, John Mills Whitaker Journal, in Exploring Mormonism: Polygamy Timeline, http://www.exploringmormonism.com/polygamy-timeline/]

130 years ago today - Nov 10, 1885

{Phebe Whitemore Carter Woodruff [first wife of Wilford Woodruff] was born March 8th, 1807 In Scarboro Maine Died in Salt Lake City Utah Nov. 10, 1885 Aged 78 years 8 months & 2 days. Blessed are the Dead who die in the Lord.}

Sleep on my Dear Phebe, But Ere long from this

The Conqured Tomb shall yield its Captive Prey,

Then with thy Husband, Children, friends, &

Prophets & Apostles

Thou shalt Reign in Bliss,

As wife, Queen, Mother, and Saint to an Eternal Day.

Wilford Woodruff

... Thus My wife Phebe Ends Her Earthly Mission. She has gone to meet her Fathers, Mothers, Children Prophets, Apostles, Saints & Friends in the spirit world.

This was a serous day. Word Came to me this morning of the Death of my wife Phebe. ...

The Lord has born me up in this Affliction in a wonderful Manner. I pray God to still sustain me. ...

[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 - Tuesday, Nov 10, 1885

Salt Lake City

The following notice in the Evening News

Excommunication

Charges having been preferred against Albert Carrington, a full and patient hearing was had before the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, where the following decision was unanimously adopted.

That [apostle] Albert Carrington be excommunicated from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints for the crimes of Lewd and Lascivious conduct and adultry. W. Woodruff, Lorenzo Snow, Erastus Snow, Franklin D. Richards, Brigham Young, Moses Thatcher, Francis M. Lyman, John Henry Smith, Heber J. Grant, John W. Taylor and Councilor John W. Young.

[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]

135 years ago today - Nov 10, 1880

Ordered that John Henry Smith be credited the amount per quarter to draw against as the rest of the Twelve have'-also ordered that Pres[iden]t. [John] Taylor be credited ten thousand dollars in consideration of his interest in the machinery of and sugar making company of 1852. Bro[ther] [Wilford] Woodruff moved that $10,000 to offset a claim of President J[ohn]. Taylor against the church be appropriated to him. I had previously stated plainly my objections to this claim so now I held my peace. The brethren voted the amount. [Brigham Young had refused this request since 1853.]

[Source: Franklin D. Richards Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]

180 years ago today - Nov 10, 1835

[Joseph Smith] I resumed the conversation and desired him [Robert Matthews, aka "Joshua the Jewish minister"] to enlighten my mind more on his views respecting the resur[r]ection. He says that he posses[es] the spirit of his fathers. That he is a litteral de[s]cendant of Mat[t]hias the Apostle that was chosen in the place of Judas that fell and that his spirit is resur[r]ected in him. That this is the way or schem[e] of eternal life, this transmigration of soul or spirit from Father to Son.

I told him that his doctrine was of the Devil that he was in reality in possession of [a] wicked and depraved spirit although he professed to be the spirit of truth itself. /And he said/ also that he possesses the soul of Christ.

... I told him that my God told me that his God is the Devil and I could not keep him any longer and he must depart. So I for once cast out the Devil in bodily shape and I believe [him to be] a murderer ...

[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1835-36, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]

55 years ago today - Nov 9, 1960

[First Presidency letter to Disney legal executive] Our grateful appreciation to you and Mr. Disney and your associates for your most gracious consent for us to continue to use the 350 feet of film footage from "The Rites of Spring" [from the Movie Fantasia] for the purpose which we have previously defined, and for the continued full term period of copyright. This is a most generous accommodation, and we assure you that it will be used respectfully and constructively, and that the privilege will not be abused or exceeded.

[Source: LDS First Presidency to Gunther R. Lessing, Disney Productions Legal Department, Nov. 9, 1960 , typed excerpt in Buerger Papers, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]

60 years ago today - Nov 9, 1955

The First Presidency informs Seventy's president Bruce R. McConkie that they have misgivings about his intended publication of a multi-volumed 'Sound Doctrine' as a censored and condensed version of the Journal of Discourses. Three weeks later the Presidency is stunned to find advertisements for McConkie's publication in the Deseret News (30 Nov. 1955) and in the December issue of the Improvement Era. He writes the Presidency on 1 Dec. that the ads appeared without his knowledge and "are not intended in any way to embarrass or pressure you Brethren." He then explains that he would "not permit any improper or questionable statements to appear" in his projected ten-volume version of the original twenty-six-volume collection. The First Presidency reads page-proofs of the first volume and responds on 9 Feb. "Omissions would probably be sought out and magnified" by the church's critics, the letter says. "Under this situation we feel constrained to request that you give up the idea of an abridged edition of the Journal of Discourses." Nineteen years later the originally contracted publisher releases 'Journal of Discourses Digest,' under the editorship of the oldest son of McConkie, then a member of the Twelve.

[Source: The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]

90 years ago today - Nov 9, 1925

Apostle Richard R. Lyman upon his own authority enters a plural marriage by mutual covenant. He is almost fifty-five years old, and she is fifty-three. This is the first plural marriage of a general authority since 1905.

[Source: The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]

115 years ago today - Nov 9, 1900; Friday

Sisters Emeline B. Wells and Elizabeth C. McCune called and received a blessing previous to their departure as delegates to a national council of Women to be held in the East.

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

130 years ago today - Nov 9, 1885

[Wilford Woodruff] My wife Phebe is vary low. Bulah thought she was dying. Wrote to Nellie.

At 6 oclock I Called to see my wife Phebe who was vary low. I laid my hands upon her head & Blessed her And anointed her for her burial and at 2 oclok she died. Thus we part after living together 48 years & 6 months in the Marriage Covenant.

[Source: 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 - Nov 9, 1835

On 9 November 1835, a man visiting Kirtland, Ohio, introduced himself to Joseph Smith as Joshua the Jewish minister. This was an alias of Robert Matthews (1788-1841), a religious eccentric from New York who claimed to be God the Father reincarnated in the body of Matthias the ancient apostle. The two men spoke about religion, and Smith related the story of his first vision, perhaps as a counter to Matthews's claim.

" . . . I commenced giving him a relation of the circum=stances connected with the coming forth of the book of Mormon, as follows--being wrought up in my mind, respecting the subject of religion and looking at [w.o. upon] the different systems taught the children of men, I knew not who was right or who was wrong and I considered [I considered w.o. considering] it of the first importance that I should be right, in matters that involve eternal consequ[e]nces; being thus perplexed in mind I retired to the silent grove and bow[e]d down before the Lord, under a realising sense that he had said (if the bible be true) ask and you shall receive knock and it shall be opened seek and you shall find and again [Matt. 7:7], if any man lack wisdom let him ask of God who giveth to all men libar=ally and upbradeth not [Jas. 1:5]; information was what I most desired at this time, and with a fixed determination to obtain it, I called upon the Lord for the first time, in the place above stated or in other words I made a fruitless attempt to p[r]ay, my toung seemed to be swolen in my mouth, so that I could not utter, I heard a noise behind me like some person walking towards me, I strove again to pray, but could not, the noise of walking seem=ed to draw nearer, I sprung up on my feet, and and looked around, but saw no person or thing that was calculated to produce the noise of wal=king, I kneeled again my mouth was opened and my toung liberated, and I called on the Lord in mighty prayer, a pillar of fire appeared above my head, it presently rested down upon me [w.o. my] head, and filled me with Joy unspeakable, a personage appeared in the midst of this pillar of flame which was spread all around, and yet nothing consumed, another personage soon appeard like unto the first, he said unto me thy sins are forgiven thee, he testifyed unto me that Jesus Christ is the Son of God; <and I saw many angels in this vision> I was about 14 years old when I received this first communication; When I was about 17 years old I saw another vision of angels in the night season after I had retired to bed I had not been a sleep, when but was me=ditating upon my past life and experience, I was verry concious that I had not kept the commandments, and I repented hartily for all my sins and transgression, and humbled myself before Him <whose eyes are over all things>, all at once the room was iluminated above the brightness of the sun an angel appeared before me, his hands and feet were naked pure and white, and he stood between the floors of the room, clothed with in purity inexpressible, he said unto me I am a messenger sent from God, be faithful and keep his commandments in all things, he told me of a sacred record which was written on plates of gold, I saw in the vision the place where they were deposited, he said the Indians were the literal descendants of Abraham he explained many things of the prophesies to [p. 24] me, one I will mention which is this in Malachi 4 chapt[er]. behold the day of the Lord cometh &c. also that the Urim and Thumim, was hid up with the record, and that God would give me power to translate it, with the assistance of this instrument he then gradually vanished out of my sight, or the vision closed, while meditating on what I had seen, the angel appeard to me again and related the same things and much more, also the third time bearing the same tidings, and dep=arted; during the time I was in this vision I did not realize any thing else around me except what was shown me in this communication: after the vision had all passed, I found that it was nearly day-light, the family soon arose, I got up also:--on that day while in the field at work with my Father he asked me if I was sick I relyed, I had but little strenght [strength], he told me to go to the house, I started and went part way and was finally deprived deprived of my stren=gth and fell, but how long I remained I do not know; the Angel came to me again and comm=anded me to go and tell my Father, what I had seen and heard, I did so, he wept and told me that it was a vision from God to attend to it I went and found the place, where the plates were, according to the direction of the Angel, also saw them, and the angel as before; the powers of darkness strove hard against me. I called on God, the Angel told me that the reason why I could not obtain the plates at this time was because I was under transgression, but to come again in one year from that time, I did so, but did not obtain them [rest of line blank] [p. 25] also the third and the fourth year, at which time I obtained them, and translated them into the english language, by the gift and power of God and have been preaching it ever since.

[Source: Joseph Smith, Diary, 9 November 1835, 23-26, Joseph Smith Papers, LDS Church Archives, Salt Lake City, Utah., as cited in Dan Vogel, Early Mormon Documents: Joseph Smith Recital To Robert Matthews]

100 years ago today - Nov 8, 1915; Monday

... When President Lorenzo Snow, who succeeded President Woodruff as President of the Church, discovered that many of those who had gone from Utah to Mexico to enter into polygamous relations were couples who never intended to remain there, who returned to Utah without establishing homes in that country, which was squarely against the attitude of the Church in construing the scope of President Woodruff's manifesto, he withdrew all authority from Mexico to solemnize plural marriages there as it had been withdrawn in Utah. ...

[Source: George F. Gibbs, letter to Bernard Greensfelder, excerpt in Quinn Papers, copy in Kenney Papers, original in LDS Archives]

115 years ago today - Nov 8, 1900; Thursday

The Presidency were at the office as usual. The question was raised by President [George Q.] Cannon whether he in the publication of the History of the Church about to be published should divide the history into chapters and verses also the revelations as now published in the Doctrine and Covenants or follow the method of the publication of the History of Joseph Smith as published in the Millennial Star which is not so divided. It was decided that the divisions both in the history as to Chapters and Verses and in the revelations into verses should be made in the publication, which would make it more interesting.

At 11 o'clock the Presidency and Apostles met in the Temple in council meeting. ...

Elder Reed Smoot reported the financial condition of Brother Isaac Riddle who a short time ago donated property for the purpose of assisting in the redemption of Zion ... he desires to donate in any way that President [Lorenzo] Snow might suggest for the redemption of Zion and the building of the Temple there. ...

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

155 years ago today - Nov 8, 1860

B. Y. observed [U.S.] Pres. Buchanan will be despised by God, Man and the devil; he might be kind to his women and children, but he is an ignorant man and would misuse his old friends for his present ones. [U.S. President] Franklin Pierce, is a far more talented man than Buchanan ever was, but he ought to have been born a woman. Fillmore has more sound sense than all of the others put together. -- Salt Lake City

[Source: Brigham Young Office Journals, Special Collections, Merrill-Cazier Library, Utah State University, Logan, 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 - Nov 8, 1835

Joseph chastizes Emma for leaving the Sunday meeting before partaking of the sacrament. She weeps.

[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]

75 years ago today - Nov 7, 1940

Hill [Airforce Base] became operational and served throughout the war as a major repair and supply depot for the Army Air Forces. At its largest, Hill Field employed 15,000 civilians, 6,000 military, and several thousand POWs, making it the largest employer in the state.

[Source: Utah History Encyclopedia: World War II, http://www.uen.org/utah_history_encyclopedia/]

105 years ago today - Monday, Nov 7, 1910

[John Henry Smith] I called upon my son George Albert [Smith] who is at Grays Sanatarium. He is considerably improved.

[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 7, 1885

Quorum of the Twelve excommunicates Apostle Albert Carrington "for the crimes of lewd and lascivious conduct and adultery" with several women dating back to 1871. This is the first time since 1842 that a general authority is excommunicated for sexual misconduct, and its publication on 10 Nov. stuns the community.

[Source: The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]

130 years ago today - Nov 7, 1885

[Heber J. Grant] In the evening at 7 P.M. attended a meeting of our quorum in Prest John Taylor's office, same persons present as last evening Carrington excepted. Our meeting this evening was for the purpose of investigating the conduct and actions of Counselor John W. Young, some of his financial moves failing that he had neglected the duties of his calling in his efforts to make money Never in my life have I heard my brethren speak with more of the power of God than they did tonight. Especially powerful were the remarks of Bro Brigham Young [Jr]. If ever man spake by the power of God brother Brigham did tonight. Brigham called upon his brother to step into line or it was inevitable that he must lose his standing with his brethren and finally in the Church. Told him he had set up his own judgement & followed his own counsels in opposition to that of his own father and of his brethren, that there was not a spark of humility in his nature & warned him that tonight was his last chance and the turning place in his life.

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

155 years ago today - Nov 7, 1860

Presidet Young ... had 3 teeth extracted one a sound one through a mistake.

I spent the evening in his office. He said I hope that Abel Lincoln was Elected Presidet of the United States yesterday & that the South meet in Convention & nominate Breckenride to day to be the presidet of the South but I am afraid they will not have pluck enough to do it.

[Source: 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 - Circa Nov 7, 1830

Lucy Smith pays a debt in produce owed to Dr. Alexander McIntyre. The Smith Manchester home is invaded by creditors. William Smith returns home from business in time to chase the creditors away. Samuel Smith returns from a mission to Livonia (NY).

[Source: Vogel, Dan, Early Mormon Documents, Appendix B: Chronology, 1771-1831, http://amzn.to/T5nY8w]

75 years ago today - 75 years ago - Nov 6, 1940

[Heber J. Grant] This afternoon I borrowed my son-in-law Wallace Bennett's new Lincoln-Zephyr car and had a ride. I took with me Mrs. Anbrose McKay, widow of the former manager of the Tribune and who changed the Tribune from a vile, lying newspaper to a straightforward, fine newspaper. At the time President Smith died there was a very fine editorial in the Tribune telling what a wonderful man President Smith was. I met Mr. McKay that morning and told him I accepted that editorial as a complete cancellation of all the lies the paper had previously published, and would call the matter even. I laughed and so did he.

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

75 years ago today - 75 years ago - Nov 06, 1940

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, later a member of the First Quorum of the Seventy, is born in Ostrava, Czechoslovakia.

105 years ago today - 105 years ago - Nov 6, 1910

[Thomas A. Clawson] "There was a splendid spirit present at all meetings especially at the Temple where many testimonies were born concerning Oliver Cowdry and his labors in the Church. Prest Jos. F. Smith said that one of our Church historians has been almost persuaded that Oliver had been deceiving the people in his statement concerning the Coming of John the Baptist and ordaining Joseph and him to the Aaronic Priesthood. The President said that these words which are reported to have been said by Oliver were put into his mouth by his enemenies (Sic) and his coming humbly back and applying for admission to the Church branded as false such statements."

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

110 years ago today - 110 years ago - Nov 6, 1905

[Thomas A. Clawson] "The Political Situation is quite critical the people generally being in the dark as to how they should they should (Sic) cast their vote. I have tried to show the necessity of maintaining the Republican supreamacy (Sic) here that we as a people may stand well before the Nation and brother Reed Smoot may have more backing in his fight...."

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

120 years ago today - 120 years ago - Nov 6, 1895

[Franklin D. Richards] Had a pleasant visit with Pres[iden]t L[orenzo] Snow in his room at the Temple reviewing sone of the rough items attendant upon the closing campaign. The sayings Bro[ther] Jos[ep]h F. Smith at the Priesthood meeting'The lapsus lingu [i.e., loose tongue] of Bro[ther] Geo[rge] Q. Cannon at Brigham City [Utah] &c with their effects upon the people.

[Source: Franklin D. Richards Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]

130 years ago today - 130 years ago - Nov 6, 1885

The subject of the celestial law of marriage [plural marriage] was dwelt upon. It was shown that the faithful must live it, otherwise they could not attain to a fulness of glory. The Lord has said that "it is not meet that men who have not observed this law should preside over His Priesthood."

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

145 years ago today - 145 years ago - Nov 6, 1870

[Wilford Woodruff] After Meeting or during intermission we organized A Branch of the School of the Prophets.

[Source: 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 - 185 years ago - Circa Nov 6, 1830

On the day following Joseph Sr.'s arrest, Lucy Smith seeks assistance from Palmyra merchant Abner Lackey, who procures testimony that will be used to help Joseph Sr. gain access to the jail's courtyard.

[Source: Vogel, Dan, Early Mormon Documents, Appendix B: Chronology, 1771-1831, http://amzn.to/T5nY8w]

180 years ago today - Nov 6, 1835

Kirtland, Ohio. Joseph Smith met a man from the eastern United States who was disappointed that Joseph Smith the Prophet -"was nothing but a normal man.-",

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

130 years ago today - Nov 6, 1885

[Apostle Brigham Young Jr.] [[At a meeting of the Twelve, which Young calls "one of the solemn days of my life," charges of Lasiv. Cohab., fornication and adultery are heard against Albert Carrington. Carrington confessed, and tried to argue that because he did not "mix the seeds" he was only foolish but not criminal. This had been going on for about 12 years commencing when Carrington was President of the British mission. "The Twelve sat as a high Council president Woodruff presiding, Each expressed their opinion & all agreed. President delivered judgement, accused guilty of all charge[s]" and Carrington cut off from the church.]]

[Source: Diary of Apostle Brigham Young Jr., http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

70 years ago today - Nov 6, 1945

The temple endowment ceremony is presented for the first time in a non-English language (Spanish).

[Source: The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]

30 years ago today - Nov 5, 1985

President Spencer W. Kimball died in Salt Lake City at age 90.

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

55 years ago today - Nov 5, 1960

Concerning Gideon Dolo, a Fijian whose people had troubled LDS headquarters because of their negoid appearance, the Church News notes that he is "the first of his race to hold the Melchizedek Priesthood. The first Fijian to receive his temple endowments. The first of his race to serve as a proselyting missionary for the Church."

[Source: The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]

75 years ago today - Nov 5, 1940

[President Heber J. Grant] I listened to the election returns. Off and on during the night I do not think I slept more than three hours. I am dumbfounded to think that the people of America have returned Roosevelt to the office of President. I thought of his running for a third term would snow him under. Politics does what I said it did many years ago. I said a bad dose of politics was like the measles if it set in on a man it turned his hide yellow and made him cross-eyed.

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

120 years ago today - Nov 5, 1895

Despite a move to put the matter to a separate vote, supporters of women's suffrage managed to get it written into the new Utah Constitution by a comfortable majority. The new document was adopted on 5 November 1895 with a provision that "the rights of citizens of the State of Utah to vote and hold office shall not be denied or abridged on account of sex. Both male and female citizens of this state shall enjoy equally all civil, political and religious rights and privileges."

[Source: Utah History Encyclopedia: Sufferage, http://www.uen.org/utah_history_encyclopedia/]

120 years ago today - Nov 5, 1895

Utah's first elected state governor is LDS Heber M. Wells who serves (1896-1905). Other Mormon governors of Utah are John C. Cutler (1905-1909), William Spry (1909-17), Charles R. Mabey (1921-25), Henry H. Blood (1933-41), Herbert B. Maw (1941-49), George D. Clyde (1957-65), Calvin L. Rampton (1965-77), Scott M. Mattheson (1977-85), Norman Bangerter (1985-93), Mike Leavitt (1993-2003), Olene S. Walker (2003-05), Jon Huntsman, Jr. (2005-09), and Gary Herbert (2009- ).

[Source: The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]

120 years ago today - Nov 5, 1895

[Apostle Marriner W. Merrill] I voted the full Republican ticket, both State and City.

[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 - Tuesday, Nov 5, 1895

[Apostle John Henry Smith] I returned to Salt Lake City and went to the Polls and voted the Republican ticket straight for state, county, and city offices. I went home and went to bed. A daughter born to Josephine 20 minutes to 3 today.

[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]

120 years ago today - Nov 5, 1895

[Apostle Franklin D. Richards] Went with my son Charles Seco(?) of Ter. and we polled our votes with Straight Democratic Tickets

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

120 years ago today - Nov 5, 1895

[Apostle Francis M. Lyman] Election Day ... I deposited my straight Republican ticket. ... Before retiring I learned that the State ticket Republicans had won by about 30 votes. 167 voted for Statehood and 43 against it, total 200. That is a light vote for Tooele. Democrats are dejected.

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

185 years ago today - Circa Nov 5, 1830

This is the probable time of Joseph Sr.'s arrest and imprisonment. Lucy Smith says that Joseph Sr. was arrested on Thursday, the day following Hyrum's departure , and jailed in Canandaigua for thirty days .

[Source: Vogel, Dan, Early Mormon Documents, Appendix B: Chronology, 1771-1831, http://amzn.to/T5nY8w]

25 years ago today - Nov 4, 1990.

Sunstone's June issue comes out about mid- October, containing a summary of news stories about the temple changes. Elbert Peck's stake president, Herbert Klopfer, informs him that Sunstone's coverage is inappropriate and confiscates Elbert's temple recommend. Daniel Rector, the publisher, has his temple recommend revoked at the same time.

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

35 years ago today - Nov 4, 1980

Florida elects Paula Hawkins as the first LDS woman to become a U.S. Senator and the first female Senator who is not a daughter or wife of a politician. She is also the first prominent LDS woman to publicly acknowledge that she was sexually abused as a child.

[Source: The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]

50 years ago today - Nov 4, 1965

[Council meeting] "Elder [Ezra Taft] Benson said ... that he was confident in his own mind from a study he had made of the Negro question that we are only seeing something being carried out today that was planned by the highest councils of the communist party twenty years ago, and that Martin Luther King is an agent, if not a power in the Communist party. He said that this whole thing is being directed and supported and promoted by agents of the Communist party, that the Negroes are being used in this whole question of Civil Rights, integration, etc., and that the NAACP are largely made up of men who are affiliated with from one to a dozen communist-front organizations, and he thought they would do anything in their power to embarrass the Church. Elder Benson thought we ought to be very careful what we do in the Negro field, whether it be in Nigeria, here, or any other place in the world, and he felt that so far as Brother Williams is concerned, his work in Nigeria [to establish the church] should be terminated and he be brought home to report."

[Source: Minutes of Council Meeting 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)]

155 years ago today - Nov 4, 1860 (Afternoon)

[Brigham Young] I curse the mean skunk at Camp Floyd in the name of Jesus Christ and they shall be cursed - your sheep, colts, hogs trample upon wheat after wheat and god blessed the earth to bring it to you ...

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