[David O. McKay] We read a letter from President Philip S. Low of the Indianapolis Stake in which he presented the case of a man who had asked for a Temple recommend, but that he is not wearing his garments where he is employed because he is engaged in pouring molten metal, and when fragments scatter and fall to his shirt and his undershirt, he can easily throw them out by raising his one-piece undershirt. If he wears garments, he cannot expel the hot pellets. I directed that President Low be informed that the man may reverently remove his garments under these circumstances, but should replace them as soon as convenient when he leaves his employment where he is engaged as he explains.
[Source: David O. McKay diary, July 19, 1963 as quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
120 years ago today - Jul 19, 1893
[Apostle Abraham H. Cannon Journal] Three more Denver banks went to the wall today because of the runs made on them. By request of the Salt Lake bankers we [Deseret News] suppressed the exciting news from Denver, so that the people here might not become needlessly alarmed at the situation. Our bank statements published today show a very healthy condition.
[Source: Diary of Apostle Abraham H. Cannon, http://www.amazon.com/Apostles-Record-Journals-Abraham-1889-1896/dp/B000MFD1K4]
[Source: Diary of Apostle Abraham H. Cannon, http://www.amazon.com/Apostles-Record-Journals-Abraham-1889-1896/dp/B000MFD1K4]
135 years ago today - Jul 19, 1878
A letter to Elder John Morgan from John Taylor contains instructions for the emigration of Saints from the Southern States to Colorado or New Mexico rather than to Utah at this time. With conditions developing politically in Utah at the time it was wise. Also the matter of climate was a deciding factor.
[Source: Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
[Source: Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
170 years ago today - Jul 19, 1843
The Nauvoo Neighbor publishes a recent article from the Illinois State Register titled "Was the Arrest of the Prophet a Political Trick?" This article claims that Joseph's arrest may have been a Whig conspiracy to make the Democratic Governor Ford look bad by having to extradite Joseph Smith at election time. This would hopefully cause the massive Mormon vote to go for the Whigs. The Saints apparently give some credence to this accusation against the Whigs, because in the election they vote Democratic in spite of Joseph's promise to give his vote to the Whig candidate, Cyrus Walker.
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
5 years ago today - Jul 18, 2008
Utah is leading the world in genetic research because of the Utah Population Data Base (UPDB), a unique combination of state vital statistics, other medical profiles and genealogical records from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
[Source: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, United Kingdom, "On This Day," https://www.lds.org.uk/show_oda.php]
[Source: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, United Kingdom, "On This Day," https://www.lds.org.uk/show_oda.php]
50 years ago today - Jul 18, 1963
President David O. McKay is visited by astronaut Edward White. McKay quotes the words to "If You Could Hie To Kolob" to astronaut White. White is so impressed he asks for a copy of the words to take with him to read and study at home.
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
175 years ago today - Jul 18, 1838 (Wednesday)
A revelation making known the disposition of property tithing was given through Joseph the Prophet, at Far West. (Doc. and Cov., Sec. 120.)
[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
180 years ago today - Jul 18, 1833
A number of prominent men in Independence, Missouri, prepare the "Secret Constitution," in which they state their accusations against the Mormons. The Saints later refer to it as the "Manifesto of the Mob."
[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]
[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]
185 years ago today - Jul 18, 1828
The WAYNE SENTINEL refers to Freemasonry as a "secret combination."
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
20 years ago today - Jul 17, 1993
Counselor Thomas S. Monson presides at memorial service for reinterred bodies of former apostle Abraham Owen Woodruff and his first wife Helen Winters Woodruff. Removed from their original 1904 burial sites in Texas and Mexico, respectively, the couple is buried side-by-side in Salt Lake City. This is first reinterment of Mormon leader and wife since that of Joseph and Emma Smith in 1928.
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
80 years ago today - Jul 17, 1933
[President Heber J. Grant Diary] At 11:00 a.m. attended the regular weekly meeting of the Presidency and Presiding Bishopric. We agreed to Alex Schreiner's terms for him to become the Tabernacle Organist.
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
100 years ago today - Jul 17, 1913; Thursday
The following is the report of the regular meeting of the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve Apostles held this morning in the Temple at 10:30.
... Bro[ther]. Talmage reported a visit made by him to the Dream Mine near Spanish Fork [Utah]. He found conditions most lamentable. The shaft has been sunk between 1100 and 1200 feet at a cost of over $100,000. He went clear to the bottom and examined the work being done. It was suggested that he express his findings to Bishop [John H.] Koyle, which he did in the presence of thirty workmen, telling them that if he were making a professional report he would advise those engaging his services not to put a penny
into the mine, that from a geological standpoint there was no more promise of finding ore in that mine than there could be in a clay bank. Bro[ther]. Talmage said he got the Bishop to tell his story as to how he came to open up the mine. He said that eighteen years ago he had a dream, and in his dream he found himself on that hillside, when it was made plain to him that there was a body of ore in that ground. He dreamed it a second time, also a third time, and then he said he was carried in the spirit into the mountain, and went on to describe the different stratas of material that he would strike before striking the ore, and the Bishop thinks now he is very near ore. Thirty workmen were engaged working for capital stock, and applications are being made from all parts of the State for stock at $1.50 share, and they were selling, he was told, about 300 shares a week, and about 60,000 shares in the treasury unsold. In order to show the absurd way in which the mine is being worked Bro[ther]. Talmage said that at the bottom of the shaft only two men can work at a time, and it took eight to eighteen men to wait on them, that is, to receive and send to the top of the mine when the two men dig, and to pump water. He showed them that by going to the hillside and tunnelling in, they could easily have accomplished at an expenditure of $10,000 what had cost them over $100,000. But the Bishop explained that the shaft was sunk exactly where it had been shown him in his dream. The Bishop also remarked that it was made plain to him that they would have to work for a long period, and that only the faithful and those who remained true to the mine, would reap the benefits.
President Smith now drew attention of the Council to what is called the Majestic Gold Mine near Brigham City [Utah], and suggested that Bro[ther]. Talmage and Bro[ther]. Fred J. Pack make it their business to examine that property, as he had reason to believe it was another such thing as the Dream Mine. ...
[Source: First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
... Bro[ther]. Talmage reported a visit made by him to the Dream Mine near Spanish Fork [Utah]. He found conditions most lamentable. The shaft has been sunk between 1100 and 1200 feet at a cost of over $100,000. He went clear to the bottom and examined the work being done. It was suggested that he express his findings to Bishop [John H.] Koyle, which he did in the presence of thirty workmen, telling them that if he were making a professional report he would advise those engaging his services not to put a penny
into the mine, that from a geological standpoint there was no more promise of finding ore in that mine than there could be in a clay bank. Bro[ther]. Talmage said he got the Bishop to tell his story as to how he came to open up the mine. He said that eighteen years ago he had a dream, and in his dream he found himself on that hillside, when it was made plain to him that there was a body of ore in that ground. He dreamed it a second time, also a third time, and then he said he was carried in the spirit into the mountain, and went on to describe the different stratas of material that he would strike before striking the ore, and the Bishop thinks now he is very near ore. Thirty workmen were engaged working for capital stock, and applications are being made from all parts of the State for stock at $1.50 share, and they were selling, he was told, about 300 shares a week, and about 60,000 shares in the treasury unsold. In order to show the absurd way in which the mine is being worked Bro[ther]. Talmage said that at the bottom of the shaft only two men can work at a time, and it took eight to eighteen men to wait on them, that is, to receive and send to the top of the mine when the two men dig, and to pump water. He showed them that by going to the hillside and tunnelling in, they could easily have accomplished at an expenditure of $10,000 what had cost them over $100,000. But the Bishop explained that the shaft was sunk exactly where it had been shown him in his dream. The Bishop also remarked that it was made plain to him that they would have to work for a long period, and that only the faithful and those who remained true to the mine, would reap the benefits.
President Smith now drew attention of the Council to what is called the Majestic Gold Mine near Brigham City [Utah], and suggested that Bro[ther]. Talmage and Bro[ther]. Fred J. Pack make it their business to examine that property, as he had reason to believe it was another such thing as the Dream Mine. ...
[Source: First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
120 years ago today - Jul 17, 1893
[President Wilford Woodruff Journal] 17 I spent the day in Camp. Ovando Beebe Cought 54 trout.
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
120 years ago today - Jul 17, 1893 (Monday)
The Utah Commission, in accordance with Pres. Harrison's amnesty proclamation, ruled that former polygamists, who, since Nov. 1, 1890, had not broken the Edmunds law, were entitled to vote at elections.
[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
160 years ago today - Jul 17, 1853
Beginning of hostilities that constitute the "Walker War." Chief Wakara ("Walker") of the Ute Indians had welcomed the Mormons into the Salt Lake Valley and given them information and advice. By now, however, he longed to rid himself of the white settlers.
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
170 years ago today - Jul 17, 1843
[Brigham Young Sermon] Elders Brigham Young and Wilford Woodruff preached at Collins Pemberton's. -- Piedmont, Ohio [History of the Church. 7 Vols. B. H. Roberts, ed. Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, Co., 1902. 5:510]
[Source: The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
[Source: The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
170 years ago today - Jul 16, 1843
Joseph Smith teaches: "No man can obtain an eternal Blessing unless the contract or covenant be made in view of Eternity All contracts in view of this Life only terminate with this Life... The earthly is the image of the Heavenly shows that is by the multiplication of Lives that the eternal worlds are created and occupied that which is born of the flesh is flesh that which is born of the Spirit is Spirit.
[Source: Hales, Brian C., Joseph Smith's Polygamy: History and Theology, 3 vols., Salt Lake City: Greg Kofford Books, 2013 (www.JosephSmithsPolygamy.com)]
[Source: Hales, Brian C., Joseph Smith's Polygamy: History and Theology, 3 vols., Salt Lake City: Greg Kofford Books, 2013 (www.JosephSmithsPolygamy.com)]
170 years ago today - Jul 16, 1843 (Sunday Morning)
[Joseph Smith Sermon] Sunday 16 Joseph preached all day.â€"A.M. 27th Matthew & c.--did not hear him.â€""Mans foes they of his own house.--the Spirit that crucified Christ, same spirit in Nauvoo. referred particularly to--I wont say who--was it Bro. Marks?--did not Say.â€"bro Cole [Cowles]? or bro [DEL: P.P.P. :DEL] ? did not hear the sermon, why ask me. nothing new same as when you left.--the spirit was against Christ because of his innocence.--So in the present case.â€"
[Source: The Woodland Institute, http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]
[Source: The Woodland Institute, http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]
170 years ago today - Jul 16, 1843 (Sunday Afternoon)
[Joseph Smith Sermon] (Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: William Clayton Diary -Words of Joseph Smith, 232-33) P.M. went to the Grove and heard Pres. J. preach on the law of the priesthood. He stated that Hyrum held the office of prophet to the church by birth-right & he was going to have a reformation and the saints must regard Hyrum for he had authority. He showed that a man must enter into an everlasting covenant with his wife in this world or he will have no claim on her in the next. He said that he could not reveal the fulness of these things untill the Temple is completed &c.
[Source: The Woodland Institute, http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]
Source: William Clayton Diary -Words of Joseph Smith, 232-33) P.M. went to the Grove and heard Pres. J. preach on the law of the priesthood. He stated that Hyrum held the office of prophet to the church by birth-right & he was going to have a reformation and the saints must regard Hyrum for he had authority. He showed that a man must enter into an everlasting covenant with his wife in this world or he will have no claim on her in the next. He said that he could not reveal the fulness of these things untill the Temple is completed &c.
[Source: The Woodland Institute, http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]
180 years ago today - Jul 16, 1833
An "Extra" edition of the Church's EVENING AND MORNING STAR states: "Having learned with extreme regret, that an article entitled, 'Free People of Color,' in the last number of the Star, has been misunderstood, we feel in duty bound to state, in this Extra, that our intention was not only to stop free people of color from emigrating to this state, but to prevent them from being admitted as members of the Church. . . . To be short, we are opposed to having free people of color admitted into the state; and we say, that none will be admitted into the Church; . . ." This "Extra," is printed in the form of a handbill and circulated as promptly as possible.
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
100 years ago today - Jul 16, 1913; Wednesday
By a very strong impression to do
today what I have long contemplated doing, I .... went to Spanish Fork ... and drove to the foot of the mountain east of Salem... to examine the "Relief Mine," commonly known as the "Dream Mine." Many rumors of this alleged mine have reached me and much has been said concerning supposed inspiration by which the work has been undertaken and prosecuted..... I found thirty men engaged in the work, each of whom is working for stock in the company, all having faith in the divine direction by which they say the mine was located. .... After returning to the surface I met Brother Koyle and all the brethren here engaged and told them that from the standpoint of geological structure and all the known laws of mineral occurrence their effort is absolutely without promise of success. I listened to their statements as to the coincidences by which Brother Koyle's action seems to them to have been justified on the basis of direction by a power above the wisdom of man, and to many testimonies of the brethren that they have received manifestations and inspiration directing them to continue this work. I told them I had made the subject a matter of prayer and had asked to be free from all prejudice or bias and to be able to recognize the facts and the truth, and testified to them ... that I considered it would be well for them to abandon this work ...
It is astounding to see the great effort they have made in what I believe to be an undertaking directed by the spirit of misguided zeal, which I believe to be the spirit of evil. Work has been in progress here for about 18 years, and on the statement made by the men themselves, the expenditure in labor and money is largely in excess of $100,000.00. I showed the men how utterly contrary to wisdom it is to go to the top of a mountain and there commence to sink a shaft in order seemingly to reach the bottom. .... As to any divine direction in the matter, I had upon the ground and so testified to the men, an impression not to be disregarded, that the source of the inspiration which they claim is the very opposite of divine.
This is but one of many such instances of alleged supernatural manifestations that work among our people, most of them tending to show that those who follow the course indicated will find great wealth in the hills. ... The predictions of old, that in the last days evil spirits, and even the spirits of devils will be working miracles among the people, are fulfilled. In this particular case stock in the company is now selling at $1.50 per share. ...
[Source: James E. Talmage, Diary]
today what I have long contemplated doing, I .... went to Spanish Fork ... and drove to the foot of the mountain east of Salem... to examine the "Relief Mine," commonly known as the "Dream Mine." Many rumors of this alleged mine have reached me and much has been said concerning supposed inspiration by which the work has been undertaken and prosecuted..... I found thirty men engaged in the work, each of whom is working for stock in the company, all having faith in the divine direction by which they say the mine was located. .... After returning to the surface I met Brother Koyle and all the brethren here engaged and told them that from the standpoint of geological structure and all the known laws of mineral occurrence their effort is absolutely without promise of success. I listened to their statements as to the coincidences by which Brother Koyle's action seems to them to have been justified on the basis of direction by a power above the wisdom of man, and to many testimonies of the brethren that they have received manifestations and inspiration directing them to continue this work. I told them I had made the subject a matter of prayer and had asked to be free from all prejudice or bias and to be able to recognize the facts and the truth, and testified to them ... that I considered it would be well for them to abandon this work ...
It is astounding to see the great effort they have made in what I believe to be an undertaking directed by the spirit of misguided zeal, which I believe to be the spirit of evil. Work has been in progress here for about 18 years, and on the statement made by the men themselves, the expenditure in labor and money is largely in excess of $100,000.00. I showed the men how utterly contrary to wisdom it is to go to the top of a mountain and there commence to sink a shaft in order seemingly to reach the bottom. .... As to any divine direction in the matter, I had upon the ground and so testified to the men, an impression not to be disregarded, that the source of the inspiration which they claim is the very opposite of divine.
This is but one of many such instances of alleged supernatural manifestations that work among our people, most of them tending to show that those who follow the course indicated will find great wealth in the hills. ... The predictions of old, that in the last days evil spirits, and even the spirits of devils will be working miracles among the people, are fulfilled. In this particular case stock in the company is now selling at $1.50 per share. ...
[Source: James E. Talmage, Diary]
185 years ago today - about Wednesday, Jul 16, 1828
[Book of Mormon Translation] Joseph loses BoM plates and Urim and Thummim,
[Source: Watson, Elden, Approximate Book of Mormon Translation Timeline, http://www.eldenwatson.net/BoM.htm]
[Source: Watson, Elden, Approximate Book of Mormon Translation Timeline, http://www.eldenwatson.net/BoM.htm]
20 years ago today - Jul 15, 1993
INSIDE RADIO reports: "New York's finest summoned to the mailroom [of station WABC] Tuesday morning. Somebody heard a beeping or ticking noise coming from a pouch. Played it safe and called the cops. Actual contents of the package: the latest PSA package from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the Mormons). Seems the press kit contained a chip designed to emit an attention-getting signal. It worked."
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
165 years ago today - Jul 15, 1848
[Hosea Stout Diary] Saturday July 15th 1848. Moved on and stopped opposite to Chimney Rock. Had to dig some 6 or 7 feet for water being about two miles from the river. We are now entirely out of the buffalo range.
[Source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]
[Source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]
170 years ago today - Jul 15, 1843
[Joseph Smith Diary] Saturday, July 15th 1843 At home. 6 P.M. with his [Joseph Smith's] family and about 100 others took a pleasure excursion on the Maid of Iowa from Nauvoo House Landing to the North part of the city and back at dusk. (Theatre in the evening by Mr. Chapman). A shower this morning wet the ground 1 inch.
[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1843-44, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]
[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1843-44, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]
170 years ago today - July 15, 1843. Saturday.
[William Clayton Journal] Made Deed for 1/2 S[team] B[oat] Maid of Iowa from Joseph to Emma. Also a Deed to E[mma] for over 60 city lots...
[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://amzn.to/william-clayton]
[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://amzn.to/william-clayton]
180 years ago today - Jul 15, 1833
Saints in Zion, MO receive notice from the citizens of Jackson County, accusing them of planning to take over all the Jackson County land, tampering with their slaves, and inviting free negroes and mulattos to join; the citizens instruct Mormons to leave or they will remove them.
[Source: Tidd, N. R., "Mormon Chronology"]
[Source: Tidd, N. R., "Mormon Chronology"]
120 years ago today - Friday, Jul 14, 1893
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Salt Lake City
Prest. Wilford Woodruff said to me today that if he was to be adopted [by] any man aside from his own father that man would be George A. Smith as he was the most fully honest man he ever knew and that he was a virtuous man in every respect. In company with Jos. F. Smith we examined the Nauvoo sealing records.
[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]
Prest. Wilford Woodruff said to me today that if he was to be adopted [by] any man aside from his own father that man would be George A. Smith as he was the most fully honest man he ever knew and that he was a virtuous man in every respect. In company with Jos. F. Smith we examined the Nauvoo sealing records.
[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]
150 years ago today - Jul 14, 1863
General Patrick Edward Connor and Federal Indian superintendent James D. Doty meet with the Southern Utes. After the chiefs had expressed some apprehensions, Connor is able to dissuade them from the idea that the army wanted to fight or exterminate them. The Utes had been told this by Mormon leaders.
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
175 years ago today - Jul 14, 1838
[Wilford Woodruff Journal] July 14th Our daughter Sarah Emma in half an hour after she was born performed a journey in the arms of Sister Sarah Foss through the garret, Chambers, & lower rooms, & principly through the whole house. Is not this an omen of her being an extensive traveller in her day? Let time determin.
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
175 years ago today - Jul 14, 1838
[Missouri War] Carroll citizens meet to oppose Mormon settlement at DeWitt. Meetings and threats against Mormons at DeWitt continue throughout the summer.
[Source: LeSueur, Stephen C., The 1838 Mormon War in Missouri, Appendix: Chronology of Events in Missouri, 1838-1839]
[Source: LeSueur, Stephen C., The 1838 Mormon War in Missouri, Appendix: Chronology of Events in Missouri, 1838-1839]
170 years ago today - Jul 13, 1843
Joseph Smith writes in his diary: "I was in conversation with Emma most of the day." The previous day Joseph's brother Hyrum had presented Emma with the revelation on plural marriage. Emma "said she did not believe a word of it and appeared very rebellious." On This Day William Clayton records: " This A.M. Joseph sent for me and when I arrived he called me up into his private room with E[mma] and there stated an agreement they had mutually entered into. They both stated their feelings on many subjects and wept considerable. O may the Lord soften her heart that she may be willing to keep and abide by his Holy Law-" Three days later Joseph's diary records that he "preached . . . concerning a mans foes being they of his own house"
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
120 years ago today - Jul 13, 1893
[Minutes, Quorum of Twelve] President [Wilford] Woodruff also recommended that children be sealed to parents, and then to have these parents sealed to the Prophet Joseph [Smith]. He did not feel that it was quite right and proper to have children disregard their parents who gave them birth and be sealed to men who perhaps held some high position in the Church. He had been sealed to his father and his father in turn had been sealed to the Prophet, and he felt that this course was entirely proper. All the brethren present approved of this idea.
Met Senator Peffer of Kansas in Pres[ident] [Wilford] Woodruffs office in company with the President and Pres[ident] Jos[eph] F. Smith, B[isho]p T. R. Cutler and B[isho]p Elias Morris. He is looking up the sugar making industry and immigration.
[Source: Minutes; Francis M. Lyman, Diary]
Met Senator Peffer of Kansas in Pres[ident] [Wilford] Woodruffs office in company with the President and Pres[ident] Jos[eph] F. Smith, B[isho]p T. R. Cutler and B[isho]p Elias Morris. He is looking up the sugar making industry and immigration.
[Source: Minutes; Francis M. Lyman, Diary]
180 years ago today - 1833 July [13]
The July issue of the Evening and Morning Star contains a controversial article by W. W. Phelps quoting Missouri state law and constitution regarding freed blacks entering the state and freedom of religion.
--
[Source: Kenney, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml]
--
[Source: Kenney, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml]
10 years ago today - Jul 12, 2003
The SALT LAKE TRIBUNE reports, "Utah ranks among worst in forcible rape-The report and rankings from the Charleston, S.C.-based National Violence Against Women Prevention Research Center put Utah No. 1 in the continental United States for its estimated percentage of rape victims - 20.6 percent of the state's adult female population-.The only state ahead of Utah was Alaska, where 20.9 percent of the state's female population are estimated to have been rape victims, according to the rankings."
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
120 years ago today - Jul 12, 1893
[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] [Letter to Grant in New York from Joseph F. Smith:] For the first time, this month the Church could not pay its employees, not the Presidency and Twelve. Well do not think I have lost hope -- for I have not I believe that Providence has something better in store for us than bankruptcy and ruin, but it will be a close shave in my opinion. May the Lord help us!
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
170 years ago today - July 12th 1843
D&C 132 repeatedly conferred divine immunity upon Joseph Smith for any "sin" or "transgression" he had committed in the past regarding other women. The document simply mentioned them as "all those that have been given unto my servant Joseph" (D&C 132: 52), but repeatedly introduced these unnamed women within the context of "wives and concubines" (D&C 132: 1, 37, 38, 39). The revelation also conferred divine immunity from sin, transgression, or earthly condemnation for anything Joseph Smith might do with other women after July 12th 1843. God's words specifically stated that there were no earthly limits to this immunity.
--Verses 19-20: " ... if a man marry a wife by my word, which is my law ... and commit no murder ... then shall they be gods ..."
NOTE: because the only exception was murder, these verses included adultery in their provision for spiritual immunity
--Verse 26: "... if a man marry a wife according to my word, and they are sealed by the holy Spirit of promise, according to mine appointment ... [they can] commit any sin or transgression of the new and everlasting covenant whatever ... yet they shall enter into their exaltation"
NOTE: because the only exceptions in this verse were "murder" and "blasphemy against the holy ghost," adultery is once more included in its provision for immunity from "any sin or transgression"
--Verse 40: "... I gave unto thee, my servant Joseph, an appointment, and [to] restore all things. Ask what ye will, and it shall be given unto you according to my word."
NOTE: the above verse was the revelatory basis upon which joseph smith answered his private secretary's inquiry about marrying plural wives a month later: "you have a right to get all you can." likewise, brigham young told the apostles: "My opinion is [--] any thing that you do in righteousness, there is no harm in it. if a man is faithful & can get a wife without injuring the cause[,] all is right.Â"
--Verse 41: "And as ye have asked concerning adultery, verily I say unto you, if a man receiveth a wife in the new and everlasting covenant, and if she be with another man, and I have not appointed [this other man] unto her by the holy anointing, she hath committed adultery ..."
NOTE: the revelation did not discuss the circumstance this verse only implied--when god appoints another man unto a woman who is already married. Consistent with the above verse, there would be no adultery on the part of the woman or on the part of this other man whom god has "appointed" to be with her sexually
--Verse 46: "... and whosesoever sins you remit on earth shall be remitted in the heavens ..."
NOTE: the above verse allowed joseph smith to "remit" his own sins
--Verse 48: "... whatever you give on earth, and to whomsoever you give any one [i.e., any wife] on earth, by my word and according to my law, it shall be visited with blessings and not cursings ..."
NOTE: after the revelation absolved joseph smith of adultery (particularly in his previous marriages to already-married women), the above verse authorized joseph smith to perform such marriages for anyone he might choose. Thus, soon after july 1843, joseph smith performed more ceremonies to unite already-married women as polygamous wives of trusted men (such as undivorced julia hills johnson to john smith--his uncle, undivorced augusta adams cobb to apostle brigham young, and undivorced louisa gordon rising to rank-and-file edwin d. Woolley).
--Verse 50: "Behold, I have seen all your sacrifice and will forgive all your sins: I have seen your sacrifices in obedience to that which I have told you ..."
NOTE--the above verse absolved joseph smith of any mistakes ("sins") he may have already committed concerning the revelation's main topic of "plural wives and concubines"
--Verse 59: "Verily, if a man be called of my Father ... if he do anything in my name, and according to my law and by my word, he will not commit sin and I will justify him.Â"
NOTE--the above verse absolved joseph smith of any mistake or "sin" he might commit in future concerning the revelation's main topic of "plural wives and concubines"
[Source: "Evidence For The Sexual Side of Joseph Smith's Polygamy," Comments by D. Michael Quinn on Session #2A "Reconsidering Joseph Smith's Marital Practices," Mormon History Association's Annual Conference, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, 29 June 2012 (unabbreviated version, revised during July)]
--Verses 19-20: " ... if a man marry a wife by my word, which is my law ... and commit no murder ... then shall they be gods ..."
NOTE: because the only exception was murder, these verses included adultery in their provision for spiritual immunity
--Verse 26: "... if a man marry a wife according to my word, and they are sealed by the holy Spirit of promise, according to mine appointment ... [they can] commit any sin or transgression of the new and everlasting covenant whatever ... yet they shall enter into their exaltation"
NOTE: because the only exceptions in this verse were "murder" and "blasphemy against the holy ghost," adultery is once more included in its provision for immunity from "any sin or transgression"
--Verse 40: "... I gave unto thee, my servant Joseph, an appointment, and [to] restore all things. Ask what ye will, and it shall be given unto you according to my word."
NOTE: the above verse was the revelatory basis upon which joseph smith answered his private secretary's inquiry about marrying plural wives a month later: "you have a right to get all you can." likewise, brigham young told the apostles: "My opinion is [--] any thing that you do in righteousness, there is no harm in it. if a man is faithful & can get a wife without injuring the cause[,] all is right.Â"
--Verse 41: "And as ye have asked concerning adultery, verily I say unto you, if a man receiveth a wife in the new and everlasting covenant, and if she be with another man, and I have not appointed [this other man] unto her by the holy anointing, she hath committed adultery ..."
NOTE: the revelation did not discuss the circumstance this verse only implied--when god appoints another man unto a woman who is already married. Consistent with the above verse, there would be no adultery on the part of the woman or on the part of this other man whom god has "appointed" to be with her sexually
--Verse 46: "... and whosesoever sins you remit on earth shall be remitted in the heavens ..."
NOTE: the above verse allowed joseph smith to "remit" his own sins
--Verse 48: "... whatever you give on earth, and to whomsoever you give any one [i.e., any wife] on earth, by my word and according to my law, it shall be visited with blessings and not cursings ..."
NOTE: after the revelation absolved joseph smith of adultery (particularly in his previous marriages to already-married women), the above verse authorized joseph smith to perform such marriages for anyone he might choose. Thus, soon after july 1843, joseph smith performed more ceremonies to unite already-married women as polygamous wives of trusted men (such as undivorced julia hills johnson to john smith--his uncle, undivorced augusta adams cobb to apostle brigham young, and undivorced louisa gordon rising to rank-and-file edwin d. Woolley).
--Verse 50: "Behold, I have seen all your sacrifice and will forgive all your sins: I have seen your sacrifices in obedience to that which I have told you ..."
NOTE--the above verse absolved joseph smith of any mistakes ("sins") he may have already committed concerning the revelation's main topic of "plural wives and concubines"
--Verse 59: "Verily, if a man be called of my Father ... if he do anything in my name, and according to my law and by my word, he will not commit sin and I will justify him.Â"
NOTE--the above verse absolved joseph smith of any mistake or "sin" he might commit in future concerning the revelation's main topic of "plural wives and concubines"
[Source: "Evidence For The Sexual Side of Joseph Smith's Polygamy," Comments by D. Michael Quinn on Session #2A "Reconsidering Joseph Smith's Marital Practices," Mormon History Association's Annual Conference, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, 29 June 2012 (unabbreviated version, revised during July)]
170 years ago today - Jul 12, 1843, Wednesday
[William Clayton Writings] On the morning of the 12th of July, 1843, Joseph and Hyrum Smith came into the office in the upper story of the `brick store,' on the bank of the Mississippi River. They were talking on the subject of plural marriage. Hyrum said to Joseph, ``If you will write the revelation on celestial marriage, I will take it to Emma, and I believe I can convince her of its truth, and you will hereafter have peace.'' Joseph smiled and remarked, ``You do not know Emma as well as I do.'' Hyrum repeated his opinion and further remarked, ``The doctrine is so plain, I can convince any reasonable man or woman of its truth, purity or heavenly origin,'' or words to their effect. Joseph then said, ``Well, I will write the revelation and we will see.'' He then requested me to get paper and prepare to write. Hyrum very urgently requested Joseph to write the revelation by means of the Urim and Thummim, but Joseph, in reply, said he did not need to, for he knew the revelation perfectly from beginning to end.
Joseph and Hyrum then sat down and Joseph commenced to dictate the revelation on celestial marriage, and I wrote it, sentence by sentence, as he dictated. After the whole was written, Joseph asked me to read it through, slowly and carefully, which I did, and he pronounced it correct. He then remarked that there was much more that he could write, on the same subject, but what was written was sufficient for the present.
Hyrum then took the revelation to read to Emma. Joseph remained with me in the office until Hyrum returned. When he came back, Joseph asked him how he had succeeded. Hyrum replied that he had never received a more severe talking to in his life, that Emma was very bitter and full of resentment and anger.
Joseph quietly remarked, ``I told you you did not know Emma as well as I did'' Joseph then put the revelation in his pocket, and they both left the office. The revelation was read to several of the authorities during the day. Towards evening Bishop Newel K. Whitney asked Joseph if he had any objections to his taking a copy of the revelation; Joseph replied that he had not, and handed it to him. It was carefully copied the following day by Joseph C. Kingsbury. Two or three days after the revelation was written Joseph related to me and several others that Emma has so teased, and urgently entreated him for the privilege of destroying it, that he became so weary of her teasing, and to get rid of her annoyance, he told her she might destroy it and she had done so, but he had consented to her wish in this matter to pacify her, realizing that he knew the revelation perfectly, and could rewrite it at any time if necessary.
The copy made by Joseph C. Kingsbury is a true and correct copy of the original in every respect. The copy was carefully preserved by Bishop Whitney, and but few knew of its existence until the temporary location of the Camps of Israel at Winter Quarters, on the Missouri River, in 1846.
After the revelation on celestial marriage was written, Joseph continued his instructions, privately, on the doctrine, to myself and others, and during the last year of his life we were scarcely ever together, alone, but he was talking on the subject, and explaining that doctrine and principles connected with it. He appeared to enjoy great liberty and freedom in his teachings, and also to find great relief in having a few to whom he could unbosom his feelings on that great and glorious subject.
From him I learned that the doctrine of plural and celestial marriage is the most holy and important doctrine ever revealed to man on the earth, and that without obedience to that principle no man can ever attain to the fulness of exaltation in celestial glory.
[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]
Joseph and Hyrum then sat down and Joseph commenced to dictate the revelation on celestial marriage, and I wrote it, sentence by sentence, as he dictated. After the whole was written, Joseph asked me to read it through, slowly and carefully, which I did, and he pronounced it correct. He then remarked that there was much more that he could write, on the same subject, but what was written was sufficient for the present.
Hyrum then took the revelation to read to Emma. Joseph remained with me in the office until Hyrum returned. When he came back, Joseph asked him how he had succeeded. Hyrum replied that he had never received a more severe talking to in his life, that Emma was very bitter and full of resentment and anger.
Joseph quietly remarked, ``I told you you did not know Emma as well as I did'' Joseph then put the revelation in his pocket, and they both left the office. The revelation was read to several of the authorities during the day. Towards evening Bishop Newel K. Whitney asked Joseph if he had any objections to his taking a copy of the revelation; Joseph replied that he had not, and handed it to him. It was carefully copied the following day by Joseph C. Kingsbury. Two or three days after the revelation was written Joseph related to me and several others that Emma has so teased, and urgently entreated him for the privilege of destroying it, that he became so weary of her teasing, and to get rid of her annoyance, he told her she might destroy it and she had done so, but he had consented to her wish in this matter to pacify her, realizing that he knew the revelation perfectly, and could rewrite it at any time if necessary.
The copy made by Joseph C. Kingsbury is a true and correct copy of the original in every respect. The copy was carefully preserved by Bishop Whitney, and but few knew of its existence until the temporary location of the Camps of Israel at Winter Quarters, on the Missouri River, in 1846.
After the revelation on celestial marriage was written, Joseph continued his instructions, privately, on the doctrine, to myself and others, and during the last year of his life we were scarcely ever together, alone, but he was talking on the subject, and explaining that doctrine and principles connected with it. He appeared to enjoy great liberty and freedom in his teachings, and also to find great relief in having a few to whom he could unbosom his feelings on that great and glorious subject.
From him I learned that the doctrine of plural and celestial marriage is the most holy and important doctrine ever revealed to man on the earth, and that without obedience to that principle no man can ever attain to the fulness of exaltation in celestial glory.
[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]
170 years ago today - Jul 12, 1843
[Joseph Smith Diary] Wednesday, July 12th Received a Revelation in the office in presence of Hyrum and W[illia]m Clayton.
[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1843, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]
[Source: Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1843, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]
170 years ago today - Jul 12, 1843
Smith announces [a revelation on] polygamy, or plural marriage, is not only permissible but in certain cases required. The second pronouncement, in particular, causes great division among Mormons, with Brigham Young stating he would rather die and Joseph Smith's wife Emma expressing opposition even though the revelation (now Section 132 in the LDS Doctrine and Covenants) expressly directs Emma Smith to accept plural marriage.) And although the doctrine will not be publicly announced for nearly a decade, rumors quickly spread, increasing anti-Mormon feeling. Joseph Smith will eventually have more than 25 wives, while Young will come to embrace the doctrine, take 20 wives, and father 57 children.
[Source: Whitney, Helen, Timeline: The Early History of the Mormons, A Frontline and American Experience Co-Production,
www.pbs.org/mormons/timeline/]
[Source: Whitney, Helen, Timeline: The Early History of the Mormons, A Frontline and American Experience Co-Production,
www.pbs.org/mormons/timeline/]
125 years ago today - Jul 11, 1888
[Patriarchal Blessings] [Patriarchal Blessing of Anna Sariah Martineau given by William McBride on July 11, 1888] ... thou shalt administer ordinances in languages that thou dost not now understand and teach them to save themselves with their dead for many generations back: and when thou shalt commence this work, the Lord will give thee dreams and visions and manifestations of his holy spirit ...
[Source: Patriarchal Blessings]
[Source: Patriarchal Blessings]
80 years ago today - Jul 11, 1933
[President Heber J. Grant Diary] Brother Anthony C. Lund called and plead that we make arrangements to retain Alexander Schreiner as the Tabernacle organist.
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
175 years ago today - Jul 11, 1838
William Marks sells the House of the Lord (also known as the "Stone Temple," and "Chapel House") to Mead, Stafford & Company of Buffalo for goods purchased in 1836.
[Source: Kenney, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml]
[Source: Kenney, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml]
170 years ago today - 1843: 11 July
[Patriarchal Blessings] William Leany. (Given by John Smith.)
.... Thou art called to go forth to the nations of the earth to hunt up the remnants of Jacob, not only from among the gentiles but to gather thousands of the Lamanites and their seed. ... gather thousands of the remnants of Jacob and build a city for their safety, and establish it as a Stake of Zion and preside over it forever ...
[Source: Selected LDS Patriarchal Blessings, New Mormon Studies CD ROM, Signature Book, 2009, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
.... Thou art called to go forth to the nations of the earth to hunt up the remnants of Jacob, not only from among the gentiles but to gather thousands of the Lamanites and their seed. ... gather thousands of the remnants of Jacob and build a city for their safety, and establish it as a Stake of Zion and preside over it forever ...
[Source: Selected LDS Patriarchal Blessings, New Mormon Studies CD ROM, Signature Book, 2009, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
5 years ago today - 7/10/2008
[Same-Sex Marriage] Letter about "raising as much money as we can in July" read in RS and PH meetings in California: "President Monson has asked that we, as members of the church in California, do all we can to support the California Protection of Marriage initiative on the November ballot. He has asked our Stake President to recruit one couple from each ward to assist in this endeavor." "We have been given permission to use the Ward list and to spread literature at church, but we cannot collect money on church property. However, we have been told that we can collect money at a church function that is not at the building." "We can accept checks or credit cards only - no cash contributions. Checks should be made payable to "ProtectMarriage.com" and more information can be obtained at the www.protectmarriage.com website."
[Source: Mormons for Marriage: A Prop 8 Timeline, http://mormonsformarriage.com/?page_id=68]
[Source: Mormons for Marriage: A Prop 8 Timeline, http://mormonsformarriage.com/?page_id=68]
20 years ago today - Jul 10, 1993
In Laie, Oahu, King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV of Tonga attends the Polynesian Cultural Center's thirtieth anniversary festivities.
[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]
[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]
35 years ago today - Jul 10, 1978
PEOPLE magazine runs a three-page article: "A feminist studies Mormon polygamy and, remarkably, finds that it liberated the wives." Dr. Vicky Burgess-Olson was quoted as saying that of the 341 Mormon women she studied between 1847 and 1885, most (54%) had fulltime jobs outside the home. "When the husbands were away visiting other wives in other houses, the wives they left behind ran farms, ranches or silkworm operations. . . . If the families shared the same house, the women had different assignments and could do what they liked best."
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
60 years ago today - Jul 10, 1953
Regarding the matter of granting temple recommends to people who have been divorced ... The bishop of the ward should make his investigation and write a letter giving the results thereof to the president of the stake. The bishop's letter to the president of the stake should, whenever possible, contain a short statement signed by the person making the application ... The president of the stake should likewise make an investigation, personally whenever possible, and either approve or disapprove the recommendation of the bishop of the ward. .... The president of the stake should forward the completed file to us. .... the essential thing we wish to know is whether or not there was on the part of the one seeking the recommend any infidelity or other serious transgression. We wish both the bishop and the president of the stake to make definite statements of their own feelings and impressions on these matters after their interviews with the applicants. This information should be sent to us irrespective of the fact that we may have a record here having to do with a sealing cancellation. We are sure you understand that the Church has always looked with disfavor upon divorce, and has discouraged it wherever possible. ...
[Source: David O. McKay, Stephen L. Richards, and J. Reuben Clark Jr., circular letter, July 10, 1953, as quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
[Source: David O. McKay, Stephen L. Richards, and J. Reuben Clark Jr., circular letter, July 10, 1953, as quoted in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
130 years ago today - Jul 10, 1883
Joseph Smith III writes to an apostle of the RLDS church: "I have been ambitious of but one thing, so far as human ambition is concerned, and that was to prove by the logic of conduct that my father [Joseph Smith] was not a bad man." Joseph Smith III had been trying to prove that it was Brigham Young and not Joseph Smith who had introduced the practice of polygamy.
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
130 years ago today - Jul 10, 1883
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] On the 10 July 1883 David P Rich Son of Charles C Rich and Rudolph Smith Adopted Son of Elias Smith went into Zions Savings Bank a little after 4 oclok & David Rich Struck Br B. H. Schetler with a rod of Iron with a not on such as goes through the End gate of a waggon and split his scalp down from the schull in the shape of a horse shoe down over his face. They knocked him down with the intention of robing the bank. David Rich gathered up about $200 in gold and put [it] in his pocket. By that time Br Dunbar Came to the Door & asked what was the Matter and as he Entered the Door Rudolph Smith ran out first & David Rich followed But they were soon Arested and in Jail.
Dr Benedic was soon there & I was present when they sowed his head up. It was a Bold Daring Robery and most of the Money was obtained which Rich took. I did not hear that Smith got any. This is the result of Drinking & Carousing.
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
Dr Benedic was soon there & I was present when they sowed his head up. It was a Bold Daring Robery and most of the Money was obtained which Rich took. I did not hear that Smith got any. This is the result of Drinking & Carousing.
[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 - Jul 10, 1843
Heber C. Kimball writes in a letter to his wife and daughter, Helen: "Let us seek to be true to our integrity, wherever we shall make vows or covenants with each other. Then we have got in that narrow way that leads to eternal life. Now let us be careful that we do not make a breach, but let us learn by the things that we see others suffer, and not have to pass through them ourselves. . . . Now, Helen, study to be a comfort to all who are connected to us by the ties of nature, . . ." Two months previously fourteen-year-old Helen had become a plural wife of Joseph Smith
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
180 years ago today - about Jul 10, 1833
Kirtland, Ohio. Joseph Smith clarified to the Saints that the -"hot drinks-" spoken of in the Word of Wisdom included tea and coffee.
[Source: BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith, http://byustudies.byu.edu]
[Source: BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith, http://byustudies.byu.edu]
10 years ago today - Jul 9, 2003
The Apia Samoa Temple was destroyed by fire, marking the first time in Church history an operational temple has burned. The First Presidency announced July 16 that the temple would be rebuilt.
[Source: Church News: Historical Chronology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, http://www.ldschurchnews.com/articles/58765/Historical-chronology-of-The-Church-of-Jesus-Christ-of-Latter-day-Saints.html]
[Source: Church News: Historical Chronology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, http://www.ldschurchnews.com/articles/58765/Historical-chronology-of-The-Church-of-Jesus-Christ-of-Latter-day-Saints.html]
50 years ago today - Jul 9, 1963
Joseph Fielding Smith, president of the Quorum of the Twelve, openly criticizes "the spending proclivities of President [Henry D.] Moyle, also concerning the unorthodox way with which youngsters had been baptized in the Church. . . ." This last part refers to the "kiddie-dip" program in which missionaries baptize children as part of initiation onto a sports team.
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
130 years ago today - Jul 9, 1883
To the Bishops of Wards-- A letter to the Bishops of the Church setting them straight on their lack of authority over Relief Society wheat and its disposition. The authority over the wheat rested with the Relief Societies who had collected it.
[Source: Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
[Source: Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
170 years ago today - Jul 9, 1843
[Joseph Smith] Sunday. Joseph speaks in the grove on the subject of love and toleration.
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
170 years ago today - Jul 9, 1843
[Brigham Young] --9-- Left St. Louis at half-past 9 a.m., for Cincinnati, on the steamer Lancet, and had conversation with various gentlemen who were inquiring after "Mormonism," one of whom, a professor in a Southern university, said, "I have heard and read much of your people, and of Joseph Smith, but I have no confidence in newspaper stories, and, if it would be agreeable, I would like to ask a few questions." I told him I would answer any questions he might propose, so far as I was able.
He then asked me if Joseph Smith had more wives than one. I told him I would admit he had. In order to explain the principle, I asked the gentleman if he believed the Bible, and was a believer in the resurrection. He said he was a believer in the Old and New Testament and in the resurrection.
I then asked him if he believed parents and children, husbands and wives would recognize each other in the resurrection. He said he did.
Also, if parents and children would have the same filial feeling towards each other which they have here; and he said he believed they would, and that their affections would be more acute than they were in this life.
I then said, "We see in this life, that amongst Christians, ministers and all classes of men, a man will marry a wife, and have children by her; she dies, and he marries another, and then another, until men have had as many as six wives, and each of them bear children. This is considered all right by the Christian world, inasmuch as a man has but one at a time. Now, in the resurrection this man and all his wives and children are raised from the dead; what will be done with those women and children, and who will they belong to? and if the man is to have but one, which one in the lot shall he have?"
The professor replied, he never thought of the question in this light before, and said he did not believe those women and children would belong to any but those they belonged to in this life.
"Very well," said I, "you consider that to be a pure, holy place in the presence of God, angels, and celestial beings; would the Lord permit a thing to exist in his presence in heaven which is evil? And if it is right for a man to have several wives and children in heaven at the same time, is it not an inconsistent doctrine that a man should have several wives, and children by those wives at the same time, here in this life, as was the case with Abraham and many of the old Prophets? Or is it any more sinful to have several wives at a time than at different times ?"
He answered, "I cannot see that it would be any more inconsistent to have more wives in this life than in the next, or to have five wives at one time than at five different times. I feel to acknowledge it is a correct principle and a Bible doctrine, and I cannot see anything inconsistent in it."
After conversing with him upon the organization of the Church, the gospel, and order of the priesthood, he remarked that such an organization possessed within itself all the elements of permanent success and prosperity, and the system of such a government could not be overthrown.
[Source: Manuscript History of Brigham Young, 1801-1844, ed. Elden Jay Watson (Salt Lake City: Smith Secretarial Service, 1968).]
He then asked me if Joseph Smith had more wives than one. I told him I would admit he had. In order to explain the principle, I asked the gentleman if he believed the Bible, and was a believer in the resurrection. He said he was a believer in the Old and New Testament and in the resurrection.
I then asked him if he believed parents and children, husbands and wives would recognize each other in the resurrection. He said he did.
Also, if parents and children would have the same filial feeling towards each other which they have here; and he said he believed they would, and that their affections would be more acute than they were in this life.
I then said, "We see in this life, that amongst Christians, ministers and all classes of men, a man will marry a wife, and have children by her; she dies, and he marries another, and then another, until men have had as many as six wives, and each of them bear children. This is considered all right by the Christian world, inasmuch as a man has but one at a time. Now, in the resurrection this man and all his wives and children are raised from the dead; what will be done with those women and children, and who will they belong to? and if the man is to have but one, which one in the lot shall he have?"
The professor replied, he never thought of the question in this light before, and said he did not believe those women and children would belong to any but those they belonged to in this life.
"Very well," said I, "you consider that to be a pure, holy place in the presence of God, angels, and celestial beings; would the Lord permit a thing to exist in his presence in heaven which is evil? And if it is right for a man to have several wives and children in heaven at the same time, is it not an inconsistent doctrine that a man should have several wives, and children by those wives at the same time, here in this life, as was the case with Abraham and many of the old Prophets? Or is it any more sinful to have several wives at a time than at different times ?"
He answered, "I cannot see that it would be any more inconsistent to have more wives in this life than in the next, or to have five wives at one time than at five different times. I feel to acknowledge it is a correct principle and a Bible doctrine, and I cannot see anything inconsistent in it."
After conversing with him upon the organization of the Church, the gospel, and order of the priesthood, he remarked that such an organization possessed within itself all the elements of permanent success and prosperity, and the system of such a government could not be overthrown.
[Source: Manuscript History of Brigham Young, 1801-1844, ed. Elden Jay Watson (Salt Lake City: Smith Secretarial Service, 1968).]
70 years ago today - Jul 8, 1943
Brother George Albert Smith: As the President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints I lay my hands upon your head, and I bless you and set you apart to be the President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and I bestow upon you this blessing and pray that the Spirit of the living God may be and abide with you during your administration as the President of the Twelve Apostles. I bless you for your devotion. No more devoted and splendid worker has ever been among the leaders of the Church than yourself, excepting of course, the Prophet Joseph Smith. I bless you for blessing me upon two occasions when I was nigh unto death, and I was immediately touched with healing power and restored to my wonted strength. I bless you for your many travels. I bless you for the many comforting sermons you have preached to those who have lost their loved ones. You have been particularly willing to go and come and to preach. I bless you that your life has been spared, and I pray that you may have better strength of body in the future of your life, notwithstanding your age, than you have had for years past. You have been doing more work than your body was capable of doing. You have overdone in preaching and working for other people, and I bless you that you may have wisdom to take care of yourself and to prolong your life. I do not forget that you went to St. George for nearly if not quite a year, and I feel that Brother Joseph F. Smith and some of the others of the Quorum lacked the faith that you would return to health. I thank the Lord that I felt that you would return, and you did. I feel that you will magnify this office. I bless you with every gift, grace, and power necessary to be in a very deed one of the strong Presidents of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. I bless you with vigor of body and of mind, and with all the blessings that you need to continue your labor, but do so with wisdom and not overdo yourself. I bestow these blessings upon you in the name of the Lord, Jesus Christ, and by the power and authority that I hold as the Prophet of God in the last days, and I do it in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. I attended the meeting of the Apostles and their assistants at 8:30 and at ten o’clock met with the First Presidency and Apostles in the Presidents’ Office where President Heber J. Grant set apart Elder George Albert Smith as President of the Council of the Twelve Apostles. He also presented the name of a brother [i.e., Spencer W. Kimball] to fill one of the two vacancies in the Council which was unanimously approved, although we are not at liberty at this time to mention his name. He is from one of the southern stakes. The name of some one to fill the other vacancy was not mentioned.
[Source: “Blessing by President Heber J. Grant upon the Head of Elder George Albert Smith, Setting Him Apart as President of the Council of the Twelve Apostlesâ€; Joseph Fielding Smith, Diary]
[Source: “Blessing by President Heber J. Grant upon the Head of Elder George Albert Smith, Setting Him Apart as President of the Council of the Twelve Apostlesâ€; Joseph Fielding Smith, Diary]
80 years ago today - Jul 8, 1933
[President Heber J. Grant Diary] President W.J. Henderson of the Panguitch Stake and a member of the legislature, called and expressed the hope we would not repeal the Eighteenth Amendment. I told him I had that same hope but acknowledged that my faith was not very strong that my hope would be realized. There seems to be a wave of sentiment in favor of repeal.
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
150 years ago today - Jul 8, 1863
President Brigham Young; Remarks were delivered on the Public Square, Great Salt Lake City; July 8, 1863.
We believe in God the Father and in Jesus Christ our elder brother. We believe that God is a person of tabernacle, possessing in an infinitely higher degree all the perfections and qualifications of his mortal children. We believe that he made Adam after his own image and likeness, as Moses testifies; and in this belief we differ from the professedly Christian world, who declare that "His center is everywhere, but his circumference is nowhere." Their God has no body nor parts; our God possesses a body and parts, and was heard by Adam and Eve "Walking in the garden in the cool of the day."
[Source: J. D. 10:230-231]
We believe in God the Father and in Jesus Christ our elder brother. We believe that God is a person of tabernacle, possessing in an infinitely higher degree all the perfections and qualifications of his mortal children. We believe that he made Adam after his own image and likeness, as Moses testifies; and in this belief we differ from the professedly Christian world, who declare that "His center is everywhere, but his circumference is nowhere." Their God has no body nor parts; our God possesses a body and parts, and was heard by Adam and Eve "Walking in the garden in the cool of the day."
[Source: J. D. 10:230-231]
175 years ago today - Jul 8, 1838
[D and C] Doctrine and Covenants 118: Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet, at Far West, Missouri, July 8, 1838, in response to the supplication: -"Show us thy will, O Lord, concerning the Twelve.-" HC 3: 46-47.
1-3, The Lord will provide for the families of the Twelve; 4-6, Vacancies in the Twelve are filled.
[Source: Doctrine and Covenants, http://amzn.to/DoctrineandCovenants]
1-3, The Lord will provide for the families of the Twelve; 4-6, Vacancies in the Twelve are filled.
[Source: Doctrine and Covenants, http://amzn.to/DoctrineandCovenants]
200 years ago today - Jul 8, 1813
[Joseph Smith] Smith's sister Katherine is born in Lebanon, New Hampshire. .
[Source: Wikipedia, Joseph Smith Chronology, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_Joseph_Smith,_Jr.]
[Source: Wikipedia, Joseph Smith Chronology, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_Joseph_Smith,_Jr.]
5 years ago today - 7/7/2008
[Same-Sex Marriage] Meridian Magazine publishes a letter from ProtectMarriage's Grassroots Director Gary Lawrence titled, "Wonder What the War in Heaven Was Like? Watch California This Fall" In part, it reads, "In short, if the arguments used in the war in heaven were persuasive enough to draw billions of God's spirit children away from Him, why should we not expect them to be used on the present battlefield? The same minions cast out from the Father's presence still remember what worked up there."
Lawrence, is the father of a gay son. His son later resigns from the church.
[Source: Mormons for Marriage: A Prop 8 Timeline, http://mormonsformarriage.com/?page_id=68]
Lawrence, is the father of a gay son. His son later resigns from the church.
[Source: Mormons for Marriage: A Prop 8 Timeline, http://mormonsformarriage.com/?page_id=68]
25 years ago today - Jul 07, 1988
Vance Law is named to the National League's all-star baseball team after a very successful year in the majors.
[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]
[Source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]
120 years ago today - Jul 7, 1893
[Francis M. Lyman] This A.M. a cablegram from Pres[ident] George Q. Cannon in England said he was unsuccessful in getting money and would return home. This word is very discouraging. Money matters are very tight, banks add mercantile institutions are going broke on every hand.
[Source: Excerpts of Apostle Francis M. Lyman Diaries, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Excerpts of Apostle Francis M. Lyman Diaries, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
150 years ago today - Jul 7, 1863
[Minutes, Quorum of Twelve] I [Wilford Woodruff] walked through the [Salt Lake] Temple Block with President Young.
He gave his views of the Temple in Jackson County M[iss]o[uri] According to his view at present it will be composed of 12 Twelve Temples ['] a tower upon Each than a main high Tower in the center & in the centre of the Square would be a place for the people to meet & a dore through the wall of Each Temple so that those at work in the Temple could go through the door of any one of the Temples & meet with the congregation ['] He spoke of having gardens gardens on the top of the Towers with fruit & flowers growing thereon.
[Source: Wilford Woodruff, Historian s Private Journal]
He gave his views of the Temple in Jackson County M[iss]o[uri] According to his view at present it will be composed of 12 Twelve Temples ['] a tower upon Each than a main high Tower in the center & in the centre of the Square would be a place for the people to meet & a dore through the wall of Each Temple so that those at work in the Temple could go through the door of any one of the Temples & meet with the congregation ['] He spoke of having gardens gardens on the top of the Towers with fruit & flowers growing thereon.
[Source: Wilford Woodruff, Historian s Private Journal]
170 years ago today - Jul 7, 1843 - Friday
[Relief Society] Second Meeting of Society.
... convened in the room under the Hall, the Hall being occupied by the Masonic Fra ternity.
...Mrs [Elizabeth Davis] Durfee presented the case of [Orrin] Porter Rockwell
- express'd much feeling of sympathy awakened in her heart by recent recitals of his sufferings- recommended the sisters to unite like the ancient saints in faith & pray'r for his deliverance.
Mrs. Sessions mentioned the case of a man whose name she did not know who had been fo[r] some length of time begging- had heard he had plenty of money. She described his dress.- Mrs. Pratt said she knew him- that his appearance bespoke deep poverty.
Mrs. Sessions spoke of some articles of clothing, to wit. 2 pr. pantaloons and 1 shirt, which she designed either to donate to the Society or to the Temple, as Society shall think proper. ....
[Source: Nauvoo Relief Society Minute Book, http://josephsmithpapers.org/paperDetails/nauvoo-relief-society-minute-book]
... convened in the room under the Hall, the Hall being occupied by the Masonic Fra ternity.
...Mrs [Elizabeth Davis] Durfee presented the case of [Orrin] Porter Rockwell
- express'd much feeling of sympathy awakened in her heart by recent recitals of his sufferings- recommended the sisters to unite like the ancient saints in faith & pray'r for his deliverance.
Mrs. Sessions mentioned the case of a man whose name she did not know who had been fo[r] some length of time begging- had heard he had plenty of money. She described his dress.- Mrs. Pratt said she knew him- that his appearance bespoke deep poverty.
Mrs. Sessions spoke of some articles of clothing, to wit. 2 pr. pantaloons and 1 shirt, which she designed either to donate to the Society or to the Temple, as Society shall think proper. ....
[Source: Nauvoo Relief Society Minute Book, http://josephsmithpapers.org/paperDetails/nauvoo-relief-society-minute-book]
170 years ago today - Jul 7, 1843
[Joseph Smith] Ford's agent in Nauvoo, Mr. Brayman, meets with the Saints to get affidavits about the recent arrest, escape, and rescue by a military force. While Governor Ford is trying to decide whether or not to use a militia to rearrest Joseph, a heated congressional campaign is occurring between the Whig, Cyrus Walker (to whom Joseph had promised his vote), and the Democrat Joseph Hoge. The two most influential Church leaders other than Joseph, Hyrum Smith and William Law, are in disagreement about the candidates. The Democrats try to convince the Mormons that Gov. Ford will send out the militia against Joseph if the Mormons vote for the Whigs.
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
70 years ago today - Jul 6, 1943
Serological tests before temple marriages in Utah-- Serological tests as required by civil law in Utah are required for all temple marriages in Utah. Similar instruction had already been issued by the First Presidency in letters of June 27, 1941, June 30, 1941, and August 17, 1942.
[Source: Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
[Source: Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
130 years ago today - Jul 6, 1883 (Friday)
A fatal powder magazine explosion occurred in Ogden Canyon.
[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
175 years ago today - July 6-Oct 4, 1838
[Joseph Smith] The Kirtland Camp of Saints travels from Kirtland to Adam-ondi-Ahman, Mo. On March 6, 1838, a meeting of the seventies in the Kirtland Temple had decided to move the Saints from Kirtland to Missouri. On July 6, 1838, a wagon train, over a mile long with over 500 Saints, leaves Kirtland for Missouri. Because of great suffering and discouragement, by the time the group reaches Springfield, Ill., about halfway, only 260 are left. They reach Adam-ondi-Ahman on October 4, 1838.
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
165 years ago today - Jul 5, 1848
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] During the evening A hard thunder Storm was Approaching us. My Mules were tied to A large oak tree on the opposite side of the street. I felt impressed to move my Mules away to another place. I did so. I also removed my Children out of the carriage & made them a bed in the house. I also moved my Carriage one rod down to the house in which Mrs Woodruff myself & one child slept. We had Just retired to bed when the storm reached us with great fury. In A moment the large oak tree came thundering to the ground with A mighty crash. Had I not have moved my Mules it probably would have killed them. Had I not have moved my Carriage it would have crushed it to atoms And killed us dead for the body of the tree fell whare my Carriage stood & Just missed Br Kingleys waggon. I Considerd it an interposition of Providence to save our lives.
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
1913, 100 years ago this year.
"Inwardly, I felt impelled to persuade him otherwise, and I was sure he had expected me to. I nevertheless controlled myself and made no response to his far-reaching decision. My silence at the moment was not an easy thing. Yet, I am aware now that the years of preceding struggle to live polygamy had all helped to steel me for whatever may come. I thought in those few moments before he departed: 'I'll be equal to whatever must come.'" Thus ended the thirty-year marriage. Annie was forced to find work as a practical nurse in Salt Lake City.
After thirty years as a plural wife, Annie Clark Tanner concluded the "companionship between husband and wife in polygamy could not be so close as in monogamy. There was more independence on both sides in polygamy …. It is needless to observe that monogamous marriages are by far the more successful. They give security and confidence, and these are the requirements for happiness."
[Source: Van Wagoner, Richard and Walker, Steven C., A Book of Mormons, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
After thirty years as a plural wife, Annie Clark Tanner concluded the "companionship between husband and wife in polygamy could not be so close as in monogamy. There was more independence on both sides in polygamy …. It is needless to observe that monogamous marriages are by far the more successful. They give security and confidence, and these are the requirements for happiness."
[Source: Van Wagoner, Richard and Walker, Steven C., A Book of Mormons, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
140 years ago today - Jul 5, 1873 (Saturday)
Zion's Savings' Bank and Trust Company was organized; Brigham Young, president.
[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
170 years ago today - Jul 4, 1843
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] July 4th 1843 + As the Romans took particular notice of any singular event as ominous of good or evil so I will record a sma11 circumstance that took place in my house this morning. Soon after I arose in the morning on this 4th Day of July my Sword while hanging in its usual place unsheathed of itself & the scabbard droped upon the floor leaving the bear blade suspended from the peg upon which it hung.
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
175 years ago today - Jul 4, 1838
Cornerstones laid for Far West Temple.
[Source: Tidd, N. R., "Mormon Chronology"]
[Source: Tidd, N. R., "Mormon Chronology"]
140 years ago today - Jul 4, 1873
First Mormon Tabernacle Choir concert presented in the Tabernacle.
[Source: Sherry Baker: Mormon Media History Timeline: 1827-2007, http://byustudies.byu.edu/showTitle.aspx?title=7984]
[Source: Sherry Baker: Mormon Media History Timeline: 1827-2007, http://byustudies.byu.edu/showTitle.aspx?title=7984]
175 years ago today - Jul 4, 1838
First Counselor Sidney Rigdon gives an Independence Day sermon which Joseph Smith publishes as a pamphlet: "And that mob that comes on us to disturb us, it shall be between us and them a war of extermination . . . for we will carry the seat of war to their own houses, and their own families." In the Jul issue of the ELDER'S JOURNAL, the prophet also writes: "But we do not believe in setting the Negroes free."
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
150 years ago today - Jul 4, 1863
Author Fritz Ludlow visits Salt Lake City on his way to San Francisco. He later writes in a national magazine: "Though Mormondom is disloyal to the core it still-patronizes the Fourth of Jul, at least in its phase of festivity, omitting the patriotism of our Eastern celebration, substituting 'Utah' for 'Union' in the Buncombe speeches." He describes Brigham Young at the Fourth of Jul ball as sitting in the theater dress circle "looking down on the dancers with an air of mingled hearty kindness and feudal ownership. I could excuse the latter, for Utah belongs to him of right."
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
[Source: http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html (cached, based on http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies)]
5 years ago today - 7/3/2008
[Same-Sex Marriage] Newport Beach stake "talking points" circulate, telling members to familiarize themselves with, among other things, the Proclamation on the Family, the 1P letter and scriptures to better understand doctrines and principles of marriage and family.
[Source: Mormons for Marriage: A Prop 8 Timeline, http://mormonsformarriage.com/?page_id=68]
[Source: Mormons for Marriage: A Prop 8 Timeline, http://mormonsformarriage.com/?page_id=68]
100 years ago today - Jul 3, 1913; Thursday
... Bro[ther]. Grant gave an account of his eastern trip. On the 25th ult. he was with the delegation of the battleship Utah on the occasion of the presentation to the ship by the Sons and Daughters of the Pioneers of a stand of colors, which he said was a most interesting affair. The presentation was made by Mrs. George Bergerner, a granddaughter of Apostle Orson Pratt. The address was most happily responded to by the captain, who expressed the great pleasure he had derived from the interest which the state of Utah and its people had taken in the battleship, and he also said that in his opinion there was no better ship in the navy. On this day the captain retired from the command of the ship, which made the occasion all the more notable. He and his wife expressed themselves to the effect that the best day the battleship had ever had was the day the ship was presented with the silver service, and the captain is said to have told Bro[ther]. Willard Langton, who is now making his temporary home in New York, that he was very much annoyed by the fuss made by those women over the presentation of the silver service to the ship. ...
[Source: First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
[Source: First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
125 years ago today - Jul 3, 1888
[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] Alexander Badlam Pres[iden]t of the Bankers and Merchants Mutual Life Ins. of California called on me and expressed the desire for me to accept their agency. I asked Mr. Badlam a number of questions and from his own admissions I could not have any confidence in him or his company. ... By accident I have learned that Badlam is one of "our friends" as George Q. Cannon calls them that is doing so much to get us admitted as a state. I have less confidence than ever of success since learning this. It is one of the untold mysteries to me that George Q. Cannon will employ such men as Alexander Badlam to work in the interests of our people in the efforts for Statehood, and trust him with the secret workings of our efforts and not be willing to trust the members of our Quorum. W. Woodruff, George Q. Cannon and Jos[eph] F. Smith are a committee having in charge the expenditure of all moneys for Statehood and from my information Badlam is the head man in spending money to secure the influence of the leading newspapers of the country in our behalf. I would give almost anything if Badlam had inspired me with his honesty as my hopes for the freedom of the people would be greatly increased. I shall hail the day with unbounded delight when the members of our quorum shall be of such a character that their will be perfect confidence so that the combined wisdom of all may be had in each and every effort for the advancement of the people. Meeting Badlam has made me sad and disheartened on the state movement. I would to heaven we had some strong honest men marking for us instead of such a man I think he is.
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
150 years ago today - Jul 3, 1863 (Wednesday)
The Indians attacked Canyon Station, near Deep creek, 150 miles west of G.S.L. City, killing four soldiers and Wm. Riley, the station keeper.
[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
150 years ago today - Jul 3, 1863
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 3d I attended the grand Union Ball in the Theater it being the Largest party I ever attended. 40 Cotillons were on the floor at once. I staid till near 2 oclok. The party did not break up untill near midnight.
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[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 - early Jul 1833
D. P. Hurlbut traveled back to Springfield, Erie County PA and held his first public lectures against the Mormon Church.
[Source: Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]
[Source: Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]
10 years ago today - Jul 2, 2003
The Mormon Tabernacle Choir receives a Special Recognition Award from the International Radio and Television Society Foundation.
[Source: Sherry Baker: Mormon Media History Timeline: 1827-2007, http://byustudies.byu.edu/showTitle.aspx?title=7984]
[Source: Sherry Baker: Mormon Media History Timeline: 1827-2007, http://byustudies.byu.edu/showTitle.aspx?title=7984]
80 years ago today - summer of 1933
[The Great Depression] In the summer of 1933 the Deseret News reported hundreds of homeless families were camped out on vacant lots throughout the city.
[Source: Utah History Encyclopedia: The Great Depression, http://www.media.utah.edu/UHE/d/DEPPRESSION%2CGREAT.html]
[Source: Utah History Encyclopedia: The Great Depression, http://www.media.utah.edu/UHE/d/DEPPRESSION%2CGREAT.html]
150 years ago today - summer of 1863
[R.L.D.S Church] While success was never as great as anticipated, the Reorganized Church sought to maximize the potential by sending two of its most outstanding preachers to Utah in the summer of 1863. Edmund C. Briggs, heading the missionary team, was a recently ordained apostle who had achieved dazzling success among other Mormon factions in Iowa in the earliest years of the Reorganization, baptizing over 100 new members and organizing six church branches. He brought an unusual blend of religious conviction, missionary skill, and administrative ability to the mission. His associate was Alexander McCord, a member of the early Mormon church and veteran of the Mormon Battalion who had settled in Utah after mustering out of the U.S. Army only to become disillusioned and bitter about what he considered the excesses of church government under Brigham Young.
[Source: Utah History Encyclopedia: R.L.D.S Church, http://www.media.utah.edu/UHE/r/REORGANIZEDCHURCH.html]
[Source: Utah History Encyclopedia: R.L.D.S Church, http://www.media.utah.edu/UHE/r/REORGANIZEDCHURCH.html]
165 years ago today - Jul 2, 1848
[Brigham Young Sermon] Brigham spoke long ... He prophesied that we should never be driven from there unless we done it ourselves and he was determined that the law of God should be observed by all that should go to that land; and if any man would mind his own business, not infringe upon our laws, be peaceable and not take the name of God in vain he was perfectly welcome to go with us, he being of the Methodist, Presbyterian or any other faith, but they that lifted their voices in cursing this people and reviling them, I will just blot them out of existence, and if any man will curse and swear he can not have a place among us.
[Source: Oliver B. Huntington Journal as cited in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
[Source: Oliver B. Huntington Journal as cited in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
170 years ago today - Jul 2, 1843
[Joseph Smith] Joseph petitions the governor not to issue any more writs, and has the petition signed by 150 citizens. He has an interview with the Pottawatamie chiefs who have come to visit him while he was away. He explains the gospel, kills an ox for them, and gives them some horses. The Maid of Iowa returns with the men who had gone to look for Joseph. He greets them, welcoming them home.
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
180 years ago today - 1833 2 Jul.
Joseph Smith finishes his "translation" of the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible. Making changes in an 1828 edition, Smith alters more than 3,400 verses and introduces new passages.
[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]
[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]
185 years ago today - Early July 1828
Joseph Jr. visits family in Manchester; Martin Harris confesses that he lost the translation manuscript . Lucy Smith says that Joseph left Harmony "two weeks" after the death of his infant son (15 June) and "nearly three weeks" after Martin Harris's departure . She says that Joseph stayed in Manchester only one day.
[Source: Vogel, Dan, Early Mormon Documents, Appendix B: Chronology, 1771-1831, http://amzn.to/T5nY8w]
[Source: Vogel, Dan, Early Mormon Documents, Appendix B: Chronology, 1771-1831, http://amzn.to/T5nY8w]
5 years ago today - July 1
[Same-Sex Marriage] A letter later reports some of Mormon efforts during the coming month. "Congregations of LDS all having been taught the doctrine in July so that they may see the importance of fundraising and grassroots participation. Some Stakes have called all Stake Council and wives as well as several folks who may be able to contribute not on the Council. The Stake President, in that Cottage Meeting, has asked for their support. A great part of a fund raising effort, accomplished in one night."
[Source: Latter-Day Army: Details of Mormons and Prop 8, http://www.stopthemormons.com/?p=486]
[Source: Latter-Day Army: Details of Mormons and Prop 8, http://www.stopthemormons.com/?p=486]
120 years ago today - Jul 1, 1893
The Church fails to meet its payroll, forcing General Authorities to draw their living allowances in tithing commodities. Economic depression hits Utah hard and has First Counselor George Q. Cannon meeting with financiers in London (including Baron Rothschild) and Apostle Heber J. Grant meeting with bankers in New York to secure a loan to see the Church through the hard times. The First Presidency writes: "Every day urgent demands for cash are made of us, which we cannot meet for the simple reason that we have no money. . . . We never saw such a time of financial stringency as there is now."
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
140 years ago today - Jul 1, 1873
Brigham Young's son Willard is first Mormon admitted as cadet in U.S. Military Academy at West Point. He graduates on Jun 16, 1875, "second in discipline" and "fourth in over-all standing" within his own class. Second Mormon at West Point is Brigham's nephew Richard W. Young in 1878. After two years as first Mormon at U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland, Brigham's son Feramorz L. Young resigns "in good standing" in Dec 1876 because he decides against military career. In twentieth century, hundreds of Mormons graduate from U.S. military academies.
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
[Source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]
170 years ago today - Summer 1843
Olive Grey Frost (single, age 27) marriage to Joseph Smith
After Smith's death, Frost would remarry, becoming the eighteenth plural wife of Brigham Young. They married in 1844, and she bore him no children.
[Source: Wikipedia: List of the Wives of Joseph Smith, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_the_wives_of_Joseph_Smith]
After Smith's death, Frost would remarry, becoming the eighteenth plural wife of Brigham Young. They married in 1844, and she bore him no children.
[Source: Wikipedia: List of the Wives of Joseph Smith, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_the_wives_of_Joseph_Smith]
170 years ago today - Jul 1, 1843
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] President Joseph Smith then called upon Hiram Smith, Brigham Young P P Pratt Lyman Wight & Sidney Rigdon who were duly sworn & gave in their testimony, which occupied most of the day. They went through the whole seene of the persecution from Jackson county ... even President Joseph Smith with his companions in prision loaded with chains were FED with nothing for FIVE Days in succession but the Flesh of their OWN BRETHREN which was actually cooked & given to them to eat & while hearing this part of the testimony my Blood boiled within & the spirit of war rested upon me for the space of two days. The Lawyiers were shocked to the soul. ... the whole testimony will be published to the world in pamphlet form & probably other wise & will stand as a history to future generations of the unparelled persecution of the State of Missouri against the Saints of the last days.
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
175 years ago today - Jul 1, 1838
[Wilford Woodruff Journal] ... I began to Cry unto God for my father & his houshold & the Lord Showed me in a night vision that a great victory was nigh. But the devil fell upon the whole household with great wrath & tempations. Some of the time one was ready to fall back & reject the gospel & then again annother. His power rested upon me at the same time as if to devour me at once. But after being confined to my bed for several hours under his grasp, in the name of Jesus Christ I with my friends birst the Powers of darkness. I went & stood before the people & declaired the gospel of Jesus Christ, & Shout O Heavens, and rejoice O earth for the victory the Lord hath given us. For after preaching the gospel to the peopl, I immediately assembled upon the bank of Farmington river whare there was much water & lead six of my friends into the waters of Baptism. .... I Communed with these Saints & unbosomed my feelings unto them which closed the scenes of this interesting day which have come to pass in fullfilment of my Patriarchal blessing under the hands of the Patriarch JOSepH.
{= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
See Journal Vol 1st April 15, 1837
Great and marvelous are thy Works
O LORD GOD ALMIGHTY
Written upon what came to pass on the first day of
July AD 1838 in fulfillment of Revelation
O GOD my heart inspire my pen direct While I record this scene of thy mercy this blessing of thy love a blessing promised me by the testimony of JESUS CHRIST. } ...
[Source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
{= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
See Journal Vol 1st April 15, 1837
Great and marvelous are thy Works
O LORD GOD ALMIGHTY
Written upon what came to pass on the first day of
July AD 1838 in fulfillment of Revelation
O GOD my heart inspire my pen direct While I record this scene of thy mercy this blessing of thy love a blessing promised me by the testimony of JESUS CHRIST. } ...
[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 - Summer 1833
[Joseph Smith] About 1200 Saints have gathered in Jackson County, Mo. The School of the Prophets was established there. P. P. Pratt writes that all is peaceful and plentiful, there are no law suits or broken promises, robberies, idleness, Sabbath breakingâ€""In short, there has seldom if ever, been a happier people upon the earth than the Church of the Saints now were."
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Source: Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
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