[Brigham Young Jr.]
My health is not good probably if I observed the word of wisdom more stric[t]ly would feel stronger good thing for me to try experiment of coma [?] I do keep it very well, but take cup of tea occasionally. I am sure this weakens my heart.
[Brigham Young Jr., Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
Today In Mormon History-fb
Several curious tidbits that happened on this day in Mormon History
140 years ago today - Jan 31, 1886
The Saints living at what would later be known as Colonia Juárez, Chihuahua, Mexico, hold the first meeting in their newly erected chapel, the first built in Mexico. The Mexican colonies were setup so that polygamy could be practiced in a more tolerant political environment.
155 years ago today - Jan 31, 1871
[Former apostle Amasa M. Lyman]
"Held private seance at which we received some pleasant communications from Br Joseph Smith and a deceased wife of br Edholm after which I returned to br Williams. Received the folowing from Brother Joseph through Mrs Elizabeth Crouch[:]
Brother Lyman, I am most hapy to meet you here; I have been list[e]ning to you all the evening. It does my Soul good to hear you advance the principles that I would have taught had I been permitted to stay on Earth. But it is all right; the truth will spread outward. Humanity will be lifted up from their narrowmindedness; and many Souls will be elevated through your instrumentality.
Keep on in the good work; follow out your own councel. Give my kindest love to Brothers [Elias L. T.] Harison and [William S.] Godbe and accept the same yourself. Altho I have passed away from your midst stil I retain all the good feeling I had for my felow men. I heard you speak to night about ^the^ avenging of my blood. No! I answer it a thousand times no! I almost spoke through the medium and told you so but could not quite controll her. Farewell my Brethren and Sisters have courage, from your friend and brother Joseph Smith."
[Amasa M. Lyman diary]
"Held private seance at which we received some pleasant communications from Br Joseph Smith and a deceased wife of br Edholm after which I returned to br Williams. Received the folowing from Brother Joseph through Mrs Elizabeth Crouch[:]
Brother Lyman, I am most hapy to meet you here; I have been list[e]ning to you all the evening. It does my Soul good to hear you advance the principles that I would have taught had I been permitted to stay on Earth. But it is all right; the truth will spread outward. Humanity will be lifted up from their narrowmindedness; and many Souls will be elevated through your instrumentality.
Keep on in the good work; follow out your own councel. Give my kindest love to Brothers [Elias L. T.] Harison and [William S.] Godbe and accept the same yourself. Altho I have passed away from your midst stil I retain all the good feeling I had for my felow men. I heard you speak to night about ^the^ avenging of my blood. No! I answer it a thousand times no! I almost spoke through the medium and told you so but could not quite controll her. Farewell my Brethren and Sisters have courage, from your friend and brother Joseph Smith."
[Amasa M. Lyman diary]
165 years ago today - Jan 31, 1861
At the funeral of Charles Little, a child who had drowned the day before, Brigham Young says, "The question has often been asked how is it with little children? Will they grow or not after death? Joseph once said they would, and then he said they would not. He never had any revelation upon the subject, and I have no doctrine to give upon the subject. . . . Some have thought that it was ordained that children should die. But this is not true doctrine. It is not ordained of God that children should die, but it is the will of God that all children should live and grow up to manhood and fill up the measure of their days, . . ."
165 years ago today - Jan 31, 1861
[Brigham Young]
If I bury a Child that is two years old, I dont want him or her to Come to me in a tabernacle 80 or 100 years old or at any other age ownly the age it left me and that is the way I believe it will be. We shall see there spirits before we see there bodies. Whare shall we go to find them? In the spirit world. But whare is that? Right here on the Earth whare they lived & whare we live.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
If I bury a Child that is two years old, I dont want him or her to Come to me in a tabernacle 80 or 100 years old or at any other age ownly the age it left me and that is the way I believe it will be. We shall see there spirits before we see there bodies. Whare shall we go to find them? In the spirit world. But whare is that? Right here on the Earth whare they lived & whare we live.
[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 - Jan 31, 1856
At the Philosophical Juvenile Society in Salt Lake City "the children speak their pieces and read their compositions." Presiding Patriarch John Smith writes to his half-brother Joseph F. Smith and shares his annoyance that William Pierce had married John's sister, Jerusha Smith, without his permission. Brigham Young had appointed John guardian of the family after Mary Fielding died. In his letter John refers to the nineteenth-century Mormon practice of adoption, the sealing of members to church leaders "for eternity" He comments, "I know the Pierce family belongs in Brother Brigham's family, and he would like it first rate to get one of Father's [Hyrum Smith] daughters into his family and leave Father without any kingdom .... I do not believe that Bill married Jerusha because he loved her... it was the name more than anything else."
180 years ago today - Jan 31, 1846
[Hosea Stout]
Prest J. P. Harmon notified me that the Eleventh Quorum was going to have their endowment to day and wanted me and wife to attend[.] I went home and brought her down and after staying awhile went with John Scott to see Br A. Cutler about the dissension of the Police and wanted him to and have the matter laid in a proper manner before the Twelve[.] This was about noon. I think some thing is wrong in the minds of the Twelve in relation to this matter but how it appears to them I know not. But I feel that I have done my duty in protecting their lives from their enemies both from within and without which thing has brought down the indignation of the mob and also false brethren upon me & my life is threatened by both and diligently sought for as I walk in the streets but whether I live or die I am determined to sustain the Twelve and the Authorities of this kingdom although I feel that some very unexpected catastrophe is going to happen because of false brethren
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
Prest J. P. Harmon notified me that the Eleventh Quorum was going to have their endowment to day and wanted me and wife to attend[.] I went home and brought her down and after staying awhile went with John Scott to see Br A. Cutler about the dissension of the Police and wanted him to and have the matter laid in a proper manner before the Twelve[.] This was about noon. I think some thing is wrong in the minds of the Twelve in relation to this matter but how it appears to them I know not. But I feel that I have done my duty in protecting their lives from their enemies both from within and without which thing has brought down the indignation of the mob and also false brethren upon me & my life is threatened by both and diligently sought for as I walk in the streets but whether I live or die I am determined to sustain the Twelve and the Authorities of this kingdom although I feel that some very unexpected catastrophe is going to happen because of false brethren
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
180 years ago today - Jan 31, 1846
Brigham Young (aged 44) marriage to Rhoda Richards (1784-1879) (aged 61) plural widow of Joseph Smith, Jr. sealed to Joseph Smith, Jr. for eternity and Young for time
[Wikipedia, List of Brigham Young's Wives, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Brigham_Young%27s_wives]
[Wikipedia, List of Brigham Young's Wives, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Brigham_Young%27s_wives]
180 years ago today - Jan 31, 1846
Brigham Young (aged 44) marriage to Mary Eliza Nelson (1812-1885) (aged 33) widow of John P. Greene sealed to John P. Greene for eternity and Young for time; divorced by 1850
[Wikipedia, List of Brigham Young's Wives, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Brigham_Young%27s_wives]
[Wikipedia, List of Brigham Young's Wives, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Brigham_Young%27s_wives]
180 years ago today - 31st [Jan 1846]
[Brigham Young]
.... at 11 in the morning I attended a Publick meeting in the 2nd story of the Temple- Elder O. Pratt & myself addressed the meeting- at the close of our remarks- one Moses A. Smith an Apostate from our Faith arose and claimed the liberty of defending or rather investigate what he called Strangism & after holding his claims to the Presidency forth to the assembly which was that Jo- gave him (Strang) the Keys & rights of Presidency over the church by a letter directed to him from Jo Smith previous to his Martyrdom & so on- all of which was a simple fabricating thing-- without the least shadow of evidence to sustain all his- position- Bro. O. Hyde & myself then arose gave Strangism an entire blowing up & also excluded W. A. Smith - & Samuel C. Shaw from, the church and- also an action was taken upon J. J. Strang & Aaron Smith- who had been cut off Previously- for attempting to palm of a deception- upon the church by his Pretended Revelation- all of which was Sanctioned by a hearty
Amen- The meeting closed at 3 O clock evening I Then walked up- into the atic story of the Temple- & took some refreshments after which I walked into the celestial Room where I in company with my wife remained- assisting to individual needs for attending to the adoption of persons into my Family- the alter having been placed into the celestial Room- the better to See it the convenance of all present-at candle light-the ordinances of adoption commenced & ended at 33 minets past 8 in the evening- during which time about 65 persons who were adopted to Elder H. C. Kimball A. Lyman, & to myself- 48 of that No were adopted into my family February 1st 1846
[Brigham Young Journal # 4 in the handwriting of: William Clayton, Evan Greene, John D. Lee, Willard Richards. First person account kept by others. 'Lieut. Genl Brigham Young's Journal 1844']
.... at 11 in the morning I attended a Publick meeting in the 2nd story of the Temple- Elder O. Pratt & myself addressed the meeting- at the close of our remarks- one Moses A. Smith an Apostate from our Faith arose and claimed the liberty of defending or rather investigate what he called Strangism & after holding his claims to the Presidency forth to the assembly which was that Jo- gave him (Strang) the Keys & rights of Presidency over the church by a letter directed to him from Jo Smith previous to his Martyrdom & so on- all of which was a simple fabricating thing-- without the least shadow of evidence to sustain all his- position- Bro. O. Hyde & myself then arose gave Strangism an entire blowing up & also excluded W. A. Smith - & Samuel C. Shaw from, the church and- also an action was taken upon J. J. Strang & Aaron Smith- who had been cut off Previously- for attempting to palm of a deception- upon the church by his Pretended Revelation- all of which was Sanctioned by a hearty
Amen- The meeting closed at 3 O clock evening I Then walked up- into the atic story of the Temple- & took some refreshments after which I walked into the celestial Room where I in company with my wife remained- assisting to individual needs for attending to the adoption of persons into my Family- the alter having been placed into the celestial Room- the better to See it the convenance of all present-at candle light-the ordinances of adoption commenced & ended at 33 minets past 8 in the evening- during which time about 65 persons who were adopted to Elder H. C. Kimball A. Lyman, & to myself- 48 of that No were adopted into my family February 1st 1846
[Brigham Young Journal # 4 in the handwriting of: William Clayton, Evan Greene, John D. Lee, Willard Richards. First person account kept by others. 'Lieut. Genl Brigham Young's Journal 1844']
205 years ago today - Jan 31, 1821
Zina Diantha Huntington (Young), later the third general president of the Relief Society, is born in Watertown, New York.
30 years ago today - Jan 30, 1996
The Utah Senate closes a bi-partisan caucus billed as a discussion of a state education fund. Those present include about twenty senators, state commissioner of higher education, state superintendent of public education, and attorneys from the governor's and attorney general's offices. No vote is taken to close the meeting nor are minutes kept, though both are required by Utah's Open Meeting Act. Behind the closed doors, LDS senators Howard Stephenson and Charles Stewart level charges that public schools are promoting homosexuality and undermining family values. The meeting had been arranged after ten students petitioned to use a classroom at East High School for a gay and lesbian support group "to increase awareness about homosexuality in high schools, to decrease homophobia, and to help gay, lesbian, and bisexual students feel safe and welcome in their school environment". The students did not request meeting announcements or advertising, "we feel doing so would attract unwanted
attention. We are extremely concerned for the safety and well-being of our members." The resulting controversy reaches national headlines when, with a four-to-three vote, the Salt Lake City school board bans all extracurricular clubs rather than allow the gay and lesbian support group.
attention. We are extremely concerned for the safety and well-being of our members." The resulting controversy reaches national headlines when, with a four-to-three vote, the Salt Lake City school board bans all extracurricular clubs rather than allow the gay and lesbian support group.
75 years ago today - Jan 30, 1951
[Spencer W. Kimball]
I reached the office at 9:30 to attend a special meeting of The Presidency and the Council of The Twelve, to consider the matter of the missionary work. Inasmuch as there has been great confusion and misunderstanding and opposition on the part of many of the draft boards, it seemed best that we discontinue calling missionaries of draft age for the time being. [As result, there is increase of missionary callings to young, married men who serve two or more years separated from their wives.]
[Spencer W. Kimball, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
I reached the office at 9:30 to attend a special meeting of The Presidency and the Council of The Twelve, to consider the matter of the missionary work. Inasmuch as there has been great confusion and misunderstanding and opposition on the part of many of the draft boards, it seemed best that we discontinue calling missionaries of draft age for the time being. [As result, there is increase of missionary callings to young, married men who serve two or more years separated from their wives.]
[Spencer W. Kimball, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
100 years ago today - Jan 30, 1926
President Heber J. Grant writes to a stake president regarding a letter he received from a "Brother Arthur Bradder making application for his Second Blessings. Second blessings are only given by the President of the Church upon recommendation of a member of the Council of the Twelve. At some time when one of the Apostles is in your stake, if he feels to properly recommend Brother Bradder, the matter will be taken under advisement." This signals a policy change which greatly curtails the performance of Second Anointings during Grant's administration making them extremely rare after 1930. According to Apostle George F. Richards, the policy change was a result of an incident in which a "brother had received his Second Blessings, [and] while speaking in a priesthood meeting in one of the Idaho stakes, told the brethren that they all should have their Second Blessings. Of course that was a serious infraction of the charge which he received when he had his Second Anointings; but I have
never learned of any serious consequences to follow, except the action on the part of the Authorities, discontinuing the administration of these blessings in the Church."
never learned of any serious consequences to follow, except the action on the part of the Authorities, discontinuing the administration of these blessings in the Church."
130 years ago today - Jan 30, 1896
The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve decide that women should not have their own prayer circles or participate with their husbands in prayer circle meetings.
[https://byustudies.byu.edu/PDFLibrary/19.1QuinnLatter-day-dd60c2d0-159f-4238-84c7-42658a35d6ce.pdf Latter-day Saint Prayer Circles, BYU Studies 19 no. 1 (1978) by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
[https://byustudies.byu.edu/PDFLibrary/19.1QuinnLatter-day-dd60c2d0-159f-4238-84c7-42658a35d6ce.pdf Latter-day Saint Prayer Circles, BYU Studies 19 no. 1 (1978) by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
130 years ago today - Jan 30, 1896; Thursday
Meeting in Temple of Pres[idency]. & Twelve at 11 a.m. Talked over general demonstration which is being made in honor of Aunt Zina [D. H. Young]'s birthday. Was appointed chairmain [sic] of Committee to investigate this furor concerning Aunt Zina's birthday. Pres[iden]t [George Q.] Cannon was afterward added who will be pres[ident]. of Com[mittee]. I believe that there is a religious and political significance in so general movement among the women of the church.
[Brigham Young Jr., Diary]
[Brigham Young Jr., Diary]
135 years ago today - Jan 30, 1891
After some little discussion it was decided that it will be best for Z.C.M.I. and other corporations to cease paying tithing on their earnings but leave the stockholders to pay from their dividends. The custom, however, of deducting the tithing from the wages of employees was not discontinued. It was thought proper in some instances to induce eastern Gentiles of respectability to take stock with us in some of our large corporations. They would thus feel interested in protecting us in case of attack on our institutions. It was reported that there are many thieves working in Z.C.M.I. whose thefts have been discovered. Whether to make public examples of them or merely discharge them, was referred to the Board of Directors.
[Abraham H. Cannon (Author), Edward Leo Lyman (Editor), Candid Insights of a Mormon Apostle: The Diaries of Abraham H. Cannon, 1889-1895, Signature Books]
[Abraham H. Cannon (Author), Edward Leo Lyman (Editor), Candid Insights of a Mormon Apostle: The Diaries of Abraham H. Cannon, 1889-1895, Signature Books]
165 years ago today - Jan 30, 1861
Brigham Young's office journal records: "Pres. Joseph Young related a dream he had to his brother the President as follows. He saw the first Presidency dealing out land and sections of land to the Brethren. In his dream he frequently saw the President with a Compass and chain in his hand, and sometimes working with it. Br. Joseph remarked he was sure he had dreamed this dream as often as one hundred times. Some of the brethren remarked it looked as if our inheritances would be dealt out to us in Jackson County. The President also related a dream In his dream he saw the children singing and dancing unusually merry, and the people also dancing and merry making with extraordinary energy."
180 years ago today - Jan 30, 1846
John Taylor: Nauvoo Temple sealing for time to Lydia Dibble 30 January 1846.
[Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]
[Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]
180 years ago today - Jan 30, 1846
[Nauvoo Temple]
Weather vane placed on the steeple of the temple. The weather vane was a "representation of an angel in his priestly robes with a book of Mormon in one hand and a trumpet in the other which [was] over laid with gold." [It also included the masonic symbols of a compass and square, which are also used in Mormon temple worship.]
[Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple]
Weather vane placed on the steeple of the temple. The weather vane was a "representation of an angel in his priestly robes with a book of Mormon in one hand and a trumpet in the other which [was] over laid with gold." [It also included the masonic symbols of a compass and square, which are also used in Mormon temple worship.]
[Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple]
180 years ago today - Jan 30, 1846
[Hosea Stout]
[Alpheus Cutler] informed me that a company was organized to steal our waggons as fast as we got them done to prevent us from moving west. I then gave him a full statement of the nature of the dissension in the "Old Police"[.] He had a better understanding of it than any man which I had before talked with and seemed to comprehend the Spirit by which they were actuated and informed me of evil plotting against me which I had not heard of and also that my life was threatened by some in very positive terms. I felt that he was my friend.
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
[Alpheus Cutler] informed me that a company was organized to steal our waggons as fast as we got them done to prevent us from moving west. I then gave him a full statement of the nature of the dissension in the "Old Police"[.] He had a better understanding of it than any man which I had before talked with and seemed to comprehend the Spirit by which they were actuated and informed me of evil plotting against me which I had not heard of and also that my life was threatened by some in very positive terms. I felt that he was my friend.
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
180 years ago today - Jan 30, 1846
Revelation to Brigham Young, President of the Quorum of the Twelve, received at Nauvoo, Illinois, on 30 January 1846
yesterday [30 January] I had some conversation with Rubin [Reuben] Miller of Norway- [Ottawa, Illinois] he being considerably bewildered by Strang new- fangled Revelation- rendered him almost devoid of Reason although apparently honest in what he was doing - & said that the word of the Lord would- be decidedly satisfactorily to him- where upon I- said
thus saith the Lord unto Reuben Miller through Brigham Young- that [James J.] Strang is a wicked & corrupt man & that his revelations are as false as he is - therefore turn away from his folly- & never let it be said of Reuben Miller- that he ever was led away & entangled- by such nonsense
Thus saying I left him my time being to precious- to be spent in hearing and even talking about-such trash--
[Brigham Young Journal, 31 Jan. 1846, typed copy, original LDS archives, available at Marquardt, H. Michael, http://www.xmission.com/~research/central/revel2.htm]
yesterday [30 January] I had some conversation with Rubin [Reuben] Miller of Norway- [Ottawa, Illinois] he being considerably bewildered by Strang new- fangled Revelation- rendered him almost devoid of Reason although apparently honest in what he was doing - & said that the word of the Lord would- be decidedly satisfactorily to him- where upon I- said
thus saith the Lord unto Reuben Miller through Brigham Young- that [James J.] Strang is a wicked & corrupt man & that his revelations are as false as he is - therefore turn away from his folly- & never let it be said of Reuben Miller- that he ever was led away & entangled- by such nonsense
Thus saying I left him my time being to precious- to be spent in hearing and even talking about-such trash--
[Brigham Young Journal, 31 Jan. 1846, typed copy, original LDS archives, available at Marquardt, H. Michael, http://www.xmission.com/~research/central/revel2.htm]
185 years ago today - Jan 30, 1841
Joseph Smith is elected sole Trustee-in-rust for church, the legal entity for directing church finances until 1923. This enables Smith "to receive, acquire, manage or convey property, real, personal, or mixed, for the sole use and benefit of said church". Smith uses the office to combine corporate and personal affairs in an intricate manner never entirely unraveled after his death. Later Brigham Young, as Trustee-in-Trust does the same on an even larger scale requiring the Church to sue his estate after his death.
190 years ago today - Jan 30, 1836
[Joseph Smith]
In the evening went to the upper rooms of the Lord's House and set the different quorems in order. Instructed the Presidents of the Seventy concerning the order of their anointing and requested them to proceed and anoint the Seventy. Having set all the quorems in order, I returned to my house being weary with continual anxiety and labour in put[t]ing all the Authorities in and in striving to purify them for the Solemn Assembly according to the commandment of the Lord.
[Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1835-36, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]
In the evening went to the upper rooms of the Lord's House and set the different quorems in order. Instructed the Presidents of the Seventy concerning the order of their anointing and requested them to proceed and anoint the Seventy. Having set all the quorems in order, I returned to my house being weary with continual anxiety and labour in put[t]ing all the Authorities in and in striving to purify them for the Solemn Assembly according to the commandment of the Lord.
[Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1835-36, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]
195 years ago today - Jan 30, 1831
Sidney Rigdon preaches in Kirtland, Ohio that Joseph Smith, their latter-day oracle, is en route to Kirtland. During his sermon he challenges the world to "refute the divine pretensions of the Book of Mormon." In the audience is the father of Alexander Campbell, who writes to his son. Alexander Campbell, Ridgon's former mentor, writes to Rigdon taking up the challenge: "I, therefore, as in duty bound, accept the challenge, and shall hold myself in readiness, if the Lord permit, to meet you publicly, in any place, either in Mentor or Kirtland, or in any of the adjoining towns that may appear most eligible for the accommodation of the public. The sooner the investigation takes place the better for all concerned." When the letter is delivered to Rigdon he, after coming to the line "the infernal book of Mormon" throws the letter into the fire. Rigdon never meets Campbell in open debate.
50 years ago today - Jan. 29-30, 1976
[George H.] F[udge]: About this same time, in 1961, we were down to a point where we were so short of names [of the dead for proxy ordinances] that literally we were running backwards and forwards to the Salt Lake Temple almost on a daily basis taking the names for the next day. The alternatives were that we would have to do something drastic in providing names or we would have to close the temples or decrease the number of sessions they had. When that was placed before the Brethren, President [David O.] McKay said that the temples must not close. Therefore the Genealogical Society would be responsible for keeping those temples open and supplying names. We could not go out then with the whip and tell the Saints, "Do more and more research." The alternative was that we would begin with an extraction program ourselves. * So then really what we were doing is performing ordinances and these were being held [in abeyance in the spirit world] until a person proved himself worthy to accept
them. Now if that was a true concept, then why couldn't we go ahead and perform ordinances not necessarily in the same sequence as we had been doing for the living? This concept would enable us to take a christening record and not only perform the baptism and endowment, but also seal the child to his parents from that one record. In doing that[,] we would be sure that the child was sealed to his correct parents. We wouldn't have to worry about grouping them. In other words, if we sealed every child to his parents and assumed we had all the records of the whole world, in the end we would have sealed everyone in the world. Well, I took that concept to the Brethren. Elder [Theodore M.] Burton was then the managing director [of the Genealogical Department]. President [N. Eldon] Tanner had been made an apostle and was not a member of the First Presidency. In turn we went to Elder [How- ard W.] Hunter, who was the president of the [Genealogical] Society. Brother Burton was the managing
director, or the general manager at that time. Brother Hunter felt it was a good concept, so he went to the First Presidency with it. After some deliberation by the Brethren they decided that it was a correct concept and that we should pursue it. They sent us a written statement accordingly to approve us going ahead. ...
[George H. Fudge oral history, Jan. 29-30, 1976; pp. 15 17 19; excerpt in Buerger Papers, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
them. Now if that was a true concept, then why couldn't we go ahead and perform ordinances not necessarily in the same sequence as we had been doing for the living? This concept would enable us to take a christening record and not only perform the baptism and endowment, but also seal the child to his parents from that one record. In doing that[,] we would be sure that the child was sealed to his correct parents. We wouldn't have to worry about grouping them. In other words, if we sealed every child to his parents and assumed we had all the records of the whole world, in the end we would have sealed everyone in the world. Well, I took that concept to the Brethren. Elder [Theodore M.] Burton was then the managing director [of the Genealogical Department]. President [N. Eldon] Tanner had been made an apostle and was not a member of the First Presidency. In turn we went to Elder [How- ard W.] Hunter, who was the president of the [Genealogical] Society. Brother Burton was the managing
director, or the general manager at that time. Brother Hunter felt it was a good concept, so he went to the First Presidency with it. After some deliberation by the Brethren they decided that it was a correct concept and that we should pursue it. They sent us a written statement accordingly to approve us going ahead. ...
[George H. Fudge oral history, Jan. 29-30, 1976; pp. 15 17 19; excerpt in Buerger Papers, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
125 years ago today - Tuesday, Jan 29, 1901
[Rudger Clawson]
Pres. Snow stated that a very serious charge had been made by The Salt Lake Tribune against the Presidency of the church to the effect that they had sold out or bargained away for a money consideration the United States senatorship to Thos. Kearns. The purpose of the meeting, therefore, was to consider the wisdom and propriety of starting a suit for libel against the publishers of that paper. By request of Pres. Snow, Elder C. W. Penrose read a number of excerpts from different issues of the Tribune covering the change.
In the opinion of the attorneys present there was good ground for a libel suit and this view was shared by all present. After some discussion it was unanimously decided that it would not be wisdom for President Snow to institute the suit, but that this should be done by Thos. Kearns, who was equally interested in the matter, and that Pres. Snow could bring suit later on, if deemed advisable.
Many, if not all of the brethren present, felt that if by this arrangement Thos. Kearns was vindicated before the courts and the public, the Presidency also would naturally share in said vindication. It is sufficient to say that there is not the least coloring of truth in the charge, but it is a malicious libel on the part of the Tribune. Pres. G. Q. Cannon was delegated to confer with Thos. Kearns relative to the matter.
[Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson]
Pres. Snow stated that a very serious charge had been made by The Salt Lake Tribune against the Presidency of the church to the effect that they had sold out or bargained away for a money consideration the United States senatorship to Thos. Kearns. The purpose of the meeting, therefore, was to consider the wisdom and propriety of starting a suit for libel against the publishers of that paper. By request of Pres. Snow, Elder C. W. Penrose read a number of excerpts from different issues of the Tribune covering the change.
In the opinion of the attorneys present there was good ground for a libel suit and this view was shared by all present. After some discussion it was unanimously decided that it would not be wisdom for President Snow to institute the suit, but that this should be done by Thos. Kearns, who was equally interested in the matter, and that Pres. Snow could bring suit later on, if deemed advisable.
Many, if not all of the brethren present, felt that if by this arrangement Thos. Kearns was vindicated before the courts and the public, the Presidency also would naturally share in said vindication. It is sufficient to say that there is not the least coloring of truth in the charge, but it is a malicious libel on the part of the Tribune. Pres. G. Q. Cannon was delegated to confer with Thos. Kearns relative to the matter.
[Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson]
135 years ago today - Thursday, Jan 29, 1891
[John Henry Smith]
Salt Lake City
We met in Council [Twelve Apostles] again today, Bro. A. H. Lund being with us. We fasted and partook of the sacrament after we had voted to forgive each other's trespasses.
[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]
Salt Lake City
We met in Council [Twelve Apostles] again today, Bro. A. H. Lund being with us. We fasted and partook of the sacrament after we had voted to forgive each other's trespasses.
[Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith]
135 years ago today - Jan 29, 1891
[Heber J. Grant]
[At apostles' meeting] President Lorenzo Snow. Said he was astonished to hear that Brother Joseph had ever imagined that he lacked confidence in him. When in the Saint George Temple the Lord had showed to him that Prest. Taylor should soon pass away and that Prest. Woodruff would be selected as the President of the Church and that Bro. Cannon would be his First and Brother
Smith his second Counselor. Had the most perfect confidence in brother Joseph and always had had. ...
After our meeting I had a very nice chat with Prest. Cannon and explained more fully that at the present time he had my perfect confidence and respect and that I loved him and was simply confessing my own sins at the time I spoke about my efforts to see that he did not get the position of Vice Prest. of Z.C.M.I. I expressed my great pleasure that he should be willing to be a Director of the Coop. Wagon and Machine Co. with me as the President. After our chat as we were starting away and shaking hands he leaned over and kissed me and I felt the tears of gratitude coming to my eyes as I returned the kiss. I hope and pray with all my hart that the day will never come again when I will lack confidence in any of my brethren.
[The Diaries of Heber J. Grant, 1880-1945, Abridged, Digital Edition Salt Lake City, Utah, 2015]
[At apostles' meeting] President Lorenzo Snow. Said he was astonished to hear that Brother Joseph had ever imagined that he lacked confidence in him. When in the Saint George Temple the Lord had showed to him that Prest. Taylor should soon pass away and that Prest. Woodruff would be selected as the President of the Church and that Bro. Cannon would be his First and Brother
Smith his second Counselor. Had the most perfect confidence in brother Joseph and always had had. ...
After our meeting I had a very nice chat with Prest. Cannon and explained more fully that at the present time he had my perfect confidence and respect and that I loved him and was simply confessing my own sins at the time I spoke about my efforts to see that he did not get the position of Vice Prest. of Z.C.M.I. I expressed my great pleasure that he should be willing to be a Director of the Coop. Wagon and Machine Co. with me as the President. After our chat as we were starting away and shaking hands he leaned over and kissed me and I felt the tears of gratitude coming to my eyes as I returned the kiss. I hope and pray with all my hart that the day will never come again when I will lack confidence in any of my brethren.
[The Diaries of Heber J. Grant, 1880-1945, Abridged, Digital Edition Salt Lake City, Utah, 2015]
150 years ago today - Jan 29, 1876
Apostle Charles C. Rich asks bishops of the Bear Lake Stake to follow Brigham Young's counsel by doing away with round dancing [waltzing] entirely. Four years later at stake priesthood meeting the following rules are accepted by unanimous vote: "We will not practice waltzes or any other round dances in our assemblies. . . ."Swinging with one arm around the lady's waist shall not be permitted in our assemblies."
190 years ago today - Jan 29, 1836
Administered and received ritual washing of feet with priesthood leaders in temple, Kirtland.
[Jessee, Dean, Esplin, Ronald and Bushman, Richard Lyman (editors), The Joseph Smith Papers: Journals, Vol. 1: 1832-1839, Chronology for the Years 1832-1839, http://www.amazon.com/Joseph-Smith-Papers-Journals-1832-1839/dp/1570088497]
[Jessee, Dean, Esplin, Ronald and Bushman, Richard Lyman (editors), The Joseph Smith Papers: Journals, Vol. 1: 1832-1839, Chronology for the Years 1832-1839, http://www.amazon.com/Joseph-Smith-Papers-Journals-1832-1839/dp/1570088497]
190 years ago today - Jan 29, 1836
Joseph Smith Senior gives six patriarchal blessings. Charles H. Smith is blessed: "Thou shalt stand on earth till thy Redeamer comes." Marietta Carter is blessed: "Thou shalt see thy Redeamer come in the clouds of heaven and be caught up to meet him and be ever with him." Joanna Carter is blessed: "Thou shalt see the end of this generation. Nancy Carter is blessed: "Thou shalt live to see the winding up of this generation."
30 years ago today - Jan 28, 1996
North America West Area Presidency (Loren C. Dunn, President) sends a letter to be read in all California wards, urging members to express their support for legislation against recognition of same-sex marriages being considered in the state.
[Crapo, Richley, Chronology Of Mormon / LDS Involvement In Same-Sex Marriage Politics http://www.mormonsocialscience.org/?q=node/59]
[Crapo, Richley, Chronology Of Mormon / LDS Involvement In Same-Sex Marriage Politics http://www.mormonsocialscience.org/?q=node/59]
70 years ago today - Jan 28, 1956
DESERET NEWS editorializes in favor of forced removal of polygamous children from their Fundamentalist parents and into monogamous foster-homes. The editorial states that although "separating children from their parents is a heart-breaking and difficult thing to do," in this case it was warranted: "The continued teaching of children to break the law is an extreme provocation. This practice on the part of parents, as much as abandonment or neglect, justifies the state's intervention both for the welfare of the children and of society." The NEWS thought the removal of the children worth the disruption of the home if "the practice of polygamy can be entirely ended among those who still practice it."
125 years ago today - Jan 28, 1901
The Presidency made an appointment with the Church attorneys to meet tomorrow to consider certain charges made by the Salt Lake Tribune in which President Snow is accused of selling his influence for 'a consideration' for the election of Thomas Kearns. $23,533.19 in the form of an order was issued in favor of the Bishop's office to cover expenditures made in the purchase of property in Bear Lake county, Idaho.
[Journal History, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
[Journal History, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
175 years ago today - Jan 28, 1851
This morning quite a company went out with the Band to meet the governor B. Young & others who were gone to Weber County Davis & the settlements North to preach visit & organize the County of Davis.
The went to congratulate him on the news of his appointment of Gov. by the President of the U. S. They returned about and were recieved here by the firing of artillery and the shouts of a large concourse of citizens and a display of fire works at Messrs Kinkead & Levingstons Store. The whole scene was joyful peaceable and quiet[.] The Gov when he was escorted home delivered a short address to the people assembled.
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
The went to congratulate him on the news of his appointment of Gov. by the President of the U. S. They returned about and were recieved here by the firing of artillery and the shouts of a large concourse of citizens and a display of fire works at Messrs Kinkead & Levingstons Store. The whole scene was joyful peaceable and quiet[.] The Gov when he was escorted home delivered a short address to the people assembled.
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
180 years ago today - Jan 28, 1846
Brigham Young (aged 44) marriage to Phebe Morton (1776-1854) (aged 59) widow of James W. Angel sealed to Angel for eternity and Young for time
[Wikipedia, List of Brigham Young's Wives, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Brigham_Young%27s_wives]
[Wikipedia, List of Brigham Young's Wives, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Brigham_Young%27s_wives]
180 years ago today - Jan 28, 1846
Brigham Young (aged 44) marriage to Jemima Angel (1803-1869) (aged 42) divorced from Valentine Young (no relation)
[Wikipedia, List of Brigham Young's Wives, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Brigham_Young%27s_wives]
[Wikipedia, List of Brigham Young's Wives, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Brigham_Young%27s_wives]
180 years ago today - Jan 28, 1846
Brigham Young (aged 44) marriage to Cynthia Porter (1783-1861) (aged 62) married to William Weston (unknown if she was widowed, divorced, or separated)
[Wikipedia, List of Brigham Young's Wives, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Brigham_Young%27s_wives]
[Wikipedia, List of Brigham Young's Wives, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Brigham_Young%27s_wives]
180 years ago today - Jan 28, 1846
Brigham Young (aged 44) marriage to Abigail Marks (1781-1846) (aged 69) widow of Asa Works sealed to Works for eternity and Young for time; Abigail Marks was the mother of Young's first wife, Miriam Works
[Wikipedia, List of Brigham Young's Wives, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Brigham_Young%27s_wives]
[Wikipedia, List of Brigham Young's Wives, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Brigham_Young%27s_wives]
180 years ago today - Jan 28, 1846
Don Carlos Smith: Sealed to Agnes Moulton Coolbrith, by proxy, 28 January 1846 in Nauvoo Temple. [His death left Agnes a widow, who then became one of Joseph Smith's plural wives].
[Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]
[Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]
180 years ago today - 28 [Jan 1846]
[Brigham Young]
I spent officiating at the Holy Alter or most of the time-- Through the day--- a 1/2 after 9 at Night the operations of the day closed - I staied over Night in the Temple the evening being remarkably - Rainy blustery--
[Brigham Young Journal # 4 in the handwriting of: William Clayton, Evan Greene, John D. Lee, Willard Richards. First person account kept by others. 'Lieut. Genl Brigham Young's Journal 1844']
I spent officiating at the Holy Alter or most of the time-- Through the day--- a 1/2 after 9 at Night the operations of the day closed - I staied over Night in the Temple the evening being remarkably - Rainy blustery--
[Brigham Young Journal # 4 in the handwriting of: William Clayton, Evan Greene, John D. Lee, Willard Richards. First person account kept by others. 'Lieut. Genl Brigham Young's Journal 1844']
190 years ago today - Jan 28, 1836
As Joseph Smith is organizing the Twelve Apostles in the assembly room of the Kirtland temple "Pres[ident] Sylvester Smith saw a pillar of fire rest down and abide upon the heads of the quorem . . ." After Sidney Rigdon gives a hosanna shout "Eld[er] Roger Orton saw a mighty Angel riding upon a horse of fire with a flaming sword in his hand followed by five others encircle the house and protect the Saints . . . Pres[ident] William Smith, one of the Twelve, saw the heavens op[e]ned and the Lord's host protecting the Lord's anointed. Pres[ident] Z[ebedee] Coltrin, one of the seven [presidents of the Seventy], saw the Saviour extended before him as upon the cross and crowned with a glory upon his head above the brightness of the sun."
130 years ago today - Jan 15, 1896; Wednesday
Considerable excited comment followed the open letter on the Senatorial question by President George Q. Cannon, and much regret was expressed that he did not see his way clear to the acceptance of a nomination. ...
The following letter was received by the Presidency:
Washington, D.C. Jan[uary] 11th,
President Wilford Woodruff:
Dear Sir: -- The Republican Party in its present platform of 1895, asked the return of the real property escheated to the U.S. under the Acts of Congress heretofore passed upon this subject. The demand was made in response to the prevailing sentiment of the people of Utah irrespective of Church relations. I think I am within the fact when I assert that the Gentiles of Utah never favored the Legislation which deprived your Church of its property. Elected upon that platform and also believing that this demand was grounded in justice, I stand ready to do all in my power to accomplish the end sought. Therefore I would suggest that you have your Attorneys prepare a bill which shall meet the case in every particular, and forward the same to me and I will introduce the same and push it so far as I may be able. I had intended to draft a bill for this purpose myself, but upon mature consideration it seemed better to call your attention to the matter, and proceed as I have suggested.
Yours truly,
Clarence E. Allen.
Brother F[ranklin]. S. Richards, Attorney for the Church, was instructed to draw up a measure to meet Mr. Allen's suggestions.
[First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
The following letter was received by the Presidency:
Washington, D.C. Jan[uary] 11th,
President Wilford Woodruff:
Dear Sir: -- The Republican Party in its present platform of 1895, asked the return of the real property escheated to the U.S. under the Acts of Congress heretofore passed upon this subject. The demand was made in response to the prevailing sentiment of the people of Utah irrespective of Church relations. I think I am within the fact when I assert that the Gentiles of Utah never favored the Legislation which deprived your Church of its property. Elected upon that platform and also believing that this demand was grounded in justice, I stand ready to do all in my power to accomplish the end sought. Therefore I would suggest that you have your Attorneys prepare a bill which shall meet the case in every particular, and forward the same to me and I will introduce the same and push it so far as I may be able. I had intended to draft a bill for this purpose myself, but upon mature consideration it seemed better to call your attention to the matter, and proceed as I have suggested.
Yours truly,
Clarence E. Allen.
Brother F[ranklin]. S. Richards, Attorney for the Church, was instructed to draw up a measure to meet Mr. Allen's suggestions.
[First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
150 years ago today - Jan 15, 1876
Andrew J. Allen reported that two elders told a congregation in one of the Salt Lake Valley wards to avoid the gentiles and their dress, and to "look forward to the time when the saviour would come on the earth which would be soon not more than sixteen years according to the revelations Joseph Smith had received."
[The Last Days and December 1890 2nd Coming of Jesus Christ, y George D. Speer Sr., privately circulated]
[The Last Days and December 1890 2nd Coming of Jesus Christ, y George D. Speer Sr., privately circulated]
150 years ago today - Jan 15, 1876
In the evening J. F. Smith gave a lecture upon the history of Joseph Smith the Prophet. He said in 15 years the time would be up when the Lord told Joseph that he should see him, but it must be by him going to him in the spirit world.
[Diary Excerpts of Henry Ballard, Signature Books Library, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Diary Excerpts of Henry Ballard, Signature Books Library, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
175 years ago today - Jan 15, 1851
First of Brigham Young's formal divorces from plural wives. He is only one formally dívorced while serving as church presídent. Joseph Smith informally ended several plural mariages, and four LDS presidents are formally divorced as apostles (John Taylor, Wilford Woodruff, Lorenzo Snow, and Joseph F. Smith).
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
180 years ago today - Jan 15, 1846
[Hosea Stout]
I Stopped at home & put on an under garment for the first time to wear it& then met the Lodge at six it was a Regular Communication then went to the Temple & Staid all night
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
I Stopped at home & put on an under garment for the first time to wear it& then met the Lodge at six it was a Regular Communication then went to the Temple & Staid all night
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
180 years ago today - Jan 15, 1846
Mary Fielding Smith, widow of Hyrum Smith and Mother of Joseph F. Smith, sixth president of the church and grandmother of Joseph Fielding Smith, tenth president of the church, is sealed to Heber C. Kimball as a plural wife "for time" in the Nauvoo Temple. She had married him in Sep of 1844 (his eighth wife) but the marriage was not "sealed" at that time.
180 years ago today - Jan 15, 1846
Brigham Young (aged 44) marriage to Olive Andrews (1818-?) (aged 27) posthumous plural wife of Joseph Smith, Jr. sealed to Joseph Smith, Jr. for eternity and Young for time
[Wikipedia, List of Brigham Young's Wives, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Brigham_Young%27s_wives]
[Wikipedia, List of Brigham Young's Wives, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Brigham_Young%27s_wives]
180 years ago today - Jan 15, 1846
Brigham Young (aged 44) marriage to Emily Haws (1823-?) (aged 22) widow of William Whitmarsh
[Wikipedia, List of Brigham Young's Wives, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Brigham_Young%27s_wives]
[Wikipedia, List of Brigham Young's Wives, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Brigham_Young%27s_wives]
185 years ago today - Jan 15, 1841
[Wilford Woodruff]
I fell a sleep & dreamed of Cetching fish many large ones with my hands. I thought I told my Dream to a man who was putting up a gate post & he told me the interpretation was for me to make hast & Baptize as many as I Could in London, & organize & set in order the Church, Seal up my testimony in the City & return home in the Spring.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
I fell a sleep & dreamed of Cetching fish many large ones with my hands. I thought I told my Dream to a man who was putting up a gate post & he told me the interpretation was for me to make hast & Baptize as many as I Could in London, & organize & set in order the Church, Seal up my testimony in the City & return home in the Spring.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
185 years ago today - Jan 15, 1841
[Heber C. Kimball]
She [Mrs. Sangivanah] gave me 2 silk Hankerchief one fore me the other to Elder W. We felt to say in the name of the Lord She shall Recieve an hundred fold in this life and Eternal life which is to come. We also ask The[e] O Lord in the name of Jesus Christ to open hur way that she may obay Thy gospell and be gethered to Zion with they peopl, and let us see it and Thy name shall have all the glory amen and amen.
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
She [Mrs. Sangivanah] gave me 2 silk Hankerchief one fore me the other to Elder W. We felt to say in the name of the Lord She shall Recieve an hundred fold in this life and Eternal life which is to come. We also ask The[e] O Lord in the name of Jesus Christ to open hur way that she may obay Thy gospell and be gethered to Zion with they peopl, and let us see it and Thy name shall have all the glory amen and amen.
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
195 years ago today - Jan 15, 1831
[W. W. Phelps (while investigating the church)]
.... [Martin Harris] is honest, and sincerely declares upon his soul's salvation that the book is true, and was interpreted by Joseph Smith, through a pair of silver spectacles, found with the plates. The places where they dug for the plates, in Manchester, are to be seen. When the plates were said to have been found, a copy of one or two lines of the characters, were taken by Mr. Harris to Utica, Albany and New York; at New York, they were shown to Dr. Mitchell, and he referred to professor Anthon who translated and declared them to be the ancient shorthand Egyptian. So much is true. The family of Smiths is poor, and generally ignorant in common learning. ...
[W. W. Phelps to E. D. Howe, 15 January 1831, in Larry E. Morris, I Should Have an Eye Single to the Glory of God: Joseph Smith's Account of the Angel and the Plates]
.... [Martin Harris] is honest, and sincerely declares upon his soul's salvation that the book is true, and was interpreted by Joseph Smith, through a pair of silver spectacles, found with the plates. The places where they dug for the plates, in Manchester, are to be seen. When the plates were said to have been found, a copy of one or two lines of the characters, were taken by Mr. Harris to Utica, Albany and New York; at New York, they were shown to Dr. Mitchell, and he referred to professor Anthon who translated and declared them to be the ancient shorthand Egyptian. So much is true. The family of Smiths is poor, and generally ignorant in common learning. ...
[W. W. Phelps to E. D. Howe, 15 January 1831, in Larry E. Morris, I Should Have an Eye Single to the Glory of God: Joseph Smith's Account of the Angel and the Plates]
195 years ago today - Early 1831
John Whitmer said Satan "took a notion to blind the minds of some of the weaker ones, and made them think that an angel of the Lord appeared to them and showed them writings on the outside of the Bible, and on parchment, which flew through the air, and on the back of their hands, and many such foolish and vain thingsothers lost their strength, and some slid on the floor, and such like maneuvers, which proved greatly to the injury of the cause."
[F. Mark McKiernan and Roger D. Launius, eds., An Early Latter Day Saint History: The Book of John Whitmer, Kept by Commandment (Independence: Herald House, 1980), 36, in Dan Vogel and Scott C. Dunn, '"The Tongue of Angels": Glossolalia among Mormonism's Founders,' Journal of Mormon History Vol. 19, No. 2, 1993]
[F. Mark McKiernan and Roger D. Launius, eds., An Early Latter Day Saint History: The Book of John Whitmer, Kept by Commandment (Independence: Herald House, 1980), 36, in Dan Vogel and Scott C. Dunn, '"The Tongue of Angels": Glossolalia among Mormonism's Founders,' Journal of Mormon History Vol. 19, No. 2, 1993]
195 years ago today - about Jan 15, 1831
Fayette, New York. Joseph Smith reportedly saw in vision the face of Newel K. Whitney, who would later receive him and his wife, Emma Smith, in Kirtland, Ohio, on February 1.
[BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith, http://byustudies.byu.edu]
[BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith, http://byustudies.byu.edu]
50 years ago today - Jan 14, 1976
Church president Spencer W. Kimball and other officials learn of the discovery of a 150-pound set of brass plates, bound by rings, that a man in England claims were brought from South America by his grandfather. The man, Bert Fuchs, also claims to have some parchments from ancient Hawaii (which had no written language), a sword with a jeweled handle, and an odd pair of spectacles. The artifacts are given to the Church. Fuchs and his family are baptized, later move to the United States, meet with President Kimball and are sealed in the Salt Lake Temple. Paul Cheesman, a BYU religion professor interested in Book of Mormon artifacts, goes to England to collect the relics for investigation and brings them to Salt Lake City. The investigation of the relics is kept secret even from the Church Historian's Department and their existence is never announced publicly. After it is found that the supposed relics are fraudulent, modern creations, Fuchs is excommunicated.
65 years ago today - Jan 14, 1961
[Joseph Fielding Smith]
Why did Adam come here? Not subject to death when he was placed upon the earth, there had to come a change in his body through the partaking of this element---whatever you want to call it, fruit---that brought blood into his body; and blood became the life of the body instead of spirit. And blood has in it the seeds of death, some mortal element. Mortality was created through the eating of the forbidden fruit, if you want to call it forbidden, but I think the Lord has made it clear that it was not forbidden. He merely said to Adam, if you want to stay here this is the situation. If so, don't eat it.
[Address given at LDS Institute of Religion; Joseph Fielding Smith; Salt Lake City, Utah; January 14, 1961, in Quotations Dealing with the Relationship of Our First Earthly Parents to Our Heavenly Parents (1830-1978)]
Why did Adam come here? Not subject to death when he was placed upon the earth, there had to come a change in his body through the partaking of this element---whatever you want to call it, fruit---that brought blood into his body; and blood became the life of the body instead of spirit. And blood has in it the seeds of death, some mortal element. Mortality was created through the eating of the forbidden fruit, if you want to call it forbidden, but I think the Lord has made it clear that it was not forbidden. He merely said to Adam, if you want to stay here this is the situation. If so, don't eat it.
[Address given at LDS Institute of Religion; Joseph Fielding Smith; Salt Lake City, Utah; January 14, 1961, in Quotations Dealing with the Relationship of Our First Earthly Parents to Our Heavenly Parents (1830-1978)]
70 years ago today - Jan 14, 1956
[David O. McKay]
At 4 p.m. went to the Salt Lake Temple where I went over the temple ceremony in the master book and also the various parts used by those taking part. Gord[o]n Hinckley who is getting a book ready for the Los Angeles Temple called my attention to minor discrepancies between the master book and the parts used by the various participants. Found that a few errors have been made in re-typing the parts.
[David O. McKay diary, Jan. 14, 1956, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
At 4 p.m. went to the Salt Lake Temple where I went over the temple ceremony in the master book and also the various parts used by those taking part. Gord[o]n Hinckley who is getting a book ready for the Los Angeles Temple called my attention to minor discrepancies between the master book and the parts used by the various participants. Found that a few errors have been made in re-typing the parts.
[David O. McKay diary, Jan. 14, 1956, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
80 years ago today - Jan 14, 1946
European relief and call of Ezra Taft Benson as European Mission President...
In this position Elder Benson will attend to the spiritual affairs of the Saints in Europe as well as direct the work to make available food, clothing, and bedding for the members of the Church in these distressed areas. In excess of thirteen thousand packages have been shipped by the Church Welfare Program during the past several weeks. Plans are now being effected to send articles in carload quantities. Elder Benson takes to Europe his experience gained as secretary of the National Council of Farm Cooperatives.
[1946-January 14-Improvement Era 49:67, February, 1946, in Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
In this position Elder Benson will attend to the spiritual affairs of the Saints in Europe as well as direct the work to make available food, clothing, and bedding for the members of the Church in these distressed areas. In excess of thirteen thousand packages have been shipped by the Church Welfare Program during the past several weeks. Plans are now being effected to send articles in carload quantities. Elder Benson takes to Europe his experience gained as secretary of the National Council of Farm Cooperatives.
[1946-January 14-Improvement Era 49:67, February, 1946, in Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
105 years ago today - Jan 14, 1921
[James E. Talmage]
In addition to other committee work I attended an afternoon session of the Book of Mormon committee, at which preliminary arrangements were made for hearing some of the proponents of different views on Book of Mormon geography. Many varied and conflicting views concerning the location of Book of Mormon lands have been advocated amongst our people; and not a few maps have been put out. With all the precautions taken to make plain the fact that these maps have been intended as suggestive presentations only, we find some people accepting one map and others another as authoritative. The matter was brought before the Council through the receipt of a communication from Elder Joel Ricks of Logan, who several years ago published a map, of which over 6000 have been disposed of. Brother Ricks and several other good brethren have voiced a sort of complaint that they have had no opportunity to present their views, with the fulness they would desire, before the Church authorities. The entire
matter was referred to the Book of Mormon committee; and today appointments were made for the beginning of the series of hearings.
[James E. Talmage, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
In addition to other committee work I attended an afternoon session of the Book of Mormon committee, at which preliminary arrangements were made for hearing some of the proponents of different views on Book of Mormon geography. Many varied and conflicting views concerning the location of Book of Mormon lands have been advocated amongst our people; and not a few maps have been put out. With all the precautions taken to make plain the fact that these maps have been intended as suggestive presentations only, we find some people accepting one map and others another as authoritative. The matter was brought before the Council through the receipt of a communication from Elder Joel Ricks of Logan, who several years ago published a map, of which over 6000 have been disposed of. Brother Ricks and several other good brethren have voiced a sort of complaint that they have had no opportunity to present their views, with the fulness they would desire, before the Church authorities. The entire
matter was referred to the Book of Mormon committee; and today appointments were made for the beginning of the series of hearings.
[James E. Talmage, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
140 years ago today - Jan 14, 1886
Had an important meeting at Bro[ther] Jos[eph] F. Smith, Pres[iden]t Cannon & Woodruff, E[rastus]. Snow, F[ranklin]. D. Richard Richards B[righam]. Y[oung]. [Jr.] M[oses]. T[hatcher]. F[rancis]. M. L[yman]. J[ohn]. H[enry]. S[mith]. H[eber]. J. G[rant]. Jno. [John] W. Taylor talked business of saving church property from Gov[ernment] thieves.
[They decide "it was best to get rid of the Church property." Subsequently church property throughout Utah was put into newly formed corporations to avoid seizure by the federal government.]
[Brigham Young Jr., Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
[They decide "it was best to get rid of the Church property." Subsequently church property throughout Utah was put into newly formed corporations to avoid seizure by the federal government.]
[Brigham Young Jr., Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
155 years ago today - Jan. 14th 1871
.... Elder Sutton inquired if the fact of no issue justified divorcement giving his opinion that it did not.
Prest. Rich said in case of impotency in the man it is sometimes the practice for a woman to obtain a divorce and none of us he thought had the authority to say it is wrong. ...
[Paris ward - Bear Lake Stake - School of the Prophets minutes 1869-72, typescript by Michael Nielsen]
Prest. Rich said in case of impotency in the man it is sometimes the practice for a woman to obtain a divorce and none of us he thought had the authority to say it is wrong. ...
[Paris ward - Bear Lake Stake - School of the Prophets minutes 1869-72, typescript by Michael Nielsen]
165 years ago today - Jan 14, 1861
Brigham Young's office journal records: "Bp Edward E. Hunter asked the President if he did not think our dancing parties were Kept open too late. The President said he should say no more about it. He formerly had wished the Bps to close early and he had always left the dances early by way of example of himself but he did know that a Bp knew a word about it."
180 years ago today - Jan 14, 1846
[Hosea Stout]
.... Just as dinner was ready an express came from the Temple for me forthwith whereupon Scott and I went immediately with out waiting for dinner. I was there notified by President B. Young to send spies out in different parts of the country to watch and report the proceedings of the mob -
I committed the business of sending spies out in Iowa to Sanford Porter who lives in Iowahe was to send some three or dour in different directions to watch their movements and let us know when anythings is going on among them against us...
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
.... Just as dinner was ready an express came from the Temple for me forthwith whereupon Scott and I went immediately with out waiting for dinner. I was there notified by President B. Young to send spies out in different parts of the country to watch and report the proceedings of the mob -
I committed the business of sending spies out in Iowa to Sanford Porter who lives in Iowahe was to send some three or dour in different directions to watch their movements and let us know when anythings is going on among them against us...
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
180 years ago today - Jan 14, 1846
John Taylor: Nauvoo Temple sealing to Elizabeth Kaighin (born 1811 in Isle of Man) 14 January 1846.
[Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]
[Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]
180 years ago today - Jan 14, 1846
Brigham Young (aged 44) marriage to Margaret Alley (1825-1852) (aged 20) first marriage 2 children
[Wikipedia, List of Brigham Young's Wives, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Brigham_Young%27s_wives]
[Wikipedia, List of Brigham Young's Wives, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Brigham_Young%27s_wives]
190 years ago today - Jan 14, 1836
Joseph Smith writes of performing a marriage ceremony after which "We then took some refreshment and our hearts were made glad with the fruit of the vine. This is according to pattern Set by our Saviour himself and we feel disposed to patronize all the institutions of heaven."
165 years ago today - Jan 13, 1861
In speaking of the Government President Young said the United States Goverment was in the fix that the man was that had to swim a river or meet a Lion. If He swam the river He would drown. If he met the Lion he would be devoured. So with the United States they are bound to be destroyed. Those things which [they] wished to bring Upon us shall Come upon them.
...President Young spoke of one Bally who Cursed Joseph Smith & the God that Called him to be a prophet & the man was taken Crazy on the Ground was taken home & died insane.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
...President Young spoke of one Bally who Cursed Joseph Smith & the God that Called him to be a prophet & the man was taken Crazy on the Ground was taken home & died insane.
[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 - Jan 13, 1856
[Wilford Woodruff]
On the return of the brethren from meeting they informed me that President Brigham Young had preached one of the greatest sermons he had ever deliverd on earth.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
On the return of the brethren from meeting they informed me that President Brigham Young had preached one of the greatest sermons he had ever deliverd on earth.
[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 - Jan 13, 1856
Brigham Young preaches: "The Lamanites on this Continent are Manassehites almost exclusively. There is but little of the seed of Ephraim among them. They are counted as the seed of Abraham and they must be saved or they would not have become so loathsome as they are. They are punished in the flesh to make attonement in the flesh for their sins & transgressions . . . The seed of Abraham has not been counted for many years NOR NEVER WILL BE AGAIN. If an Angel as to commence now to number them all when he had got the numbers together before they could be compiled there would be a great number more born during the time of there numeration so they could not be numbered & this is the reason why his seed Cannot be numbered. . . . We will administer in the Temple which we have now begun & that is one point gained & we will seal men to men by the highest keys of the Holy Priesthood. This is the highest ordinance. It is the last ordinance of the kingdom of God on the earth and aboe all the
endowments that can be given you. It is a finall sealing an Eternal Principle and when once made cannot be broaken by the Devel."
endowments that can be given you. It is a finall sealing an Eternal Principle and when once made cannot be broaken by the Devel."
180 years ago today - Tuesday, Jan 13, 1846
Nauvoo Temple Attic
said that ["]the saying of the Prophets would never be verified unless the House of the Lord be reared in the Tops of the Mountains & the Proud Banner of Liberty wave over the Valley's that are within the Mountains & I know where the spot is & I know how to make the Flag. Jos[eph Smith] sent out the coulours (colors)-& said where ever the coulours settled there would be the spot. There is another thing that I wish to say to this council[,] let an influence go out = we intend that every worthy man will recieve his endowment if not here [Nauvoo] he will have it in the wilderness.["]
[John D. Lee diary, "1844 Supplement", as quoted in Jedediah S. Rogers (editor), The Council of Fifty: A Documentary History, Signature Books (2014)]
said that ["]the saying of the Prophets would never be verified unless the House of the Lord be reared in the Tops of the Mountains & the Proud Banner of Liberty wave over the Valley's that are within the Mountains & I know where the spot is & I know how to make the Flag. Jos[eph Smith] sent out the coulours (colors)-& said where ever the coulours settled there would be the spot. There is another thing that I wish to say to this council[,] let an influence go out = we intend that every worthy man will recieve his endowment if not here [Nauvoo] he will have it in the wilderness.["]
[John D. Lee diary, "1844 Supplement", as quoted in Jedediah S. Rogers (editor), The Council of Fifty: A Documentary History, Signature Books (2014)]
180 years ago today - Tuesday, Jan 13, 1846
Nauvoo Temple Attic
said that ["]the saying of the Prophets would never be verified unless the House of the Lord be reared in the Tops of the Mountains & the Proud Banner of Liberty wave over the Valley's that are within the Mountains & I know where the spot is & I know how to make the Flag. Jos[eph Smith] sent out the coulours (colors)-& said where ever the coulours settled there would be the spot. There is another thing that I wish to say to this council[,] let an influence go out = we intend that every worthy man will recieve his endowment if not here [Nauvoo] he will have it in the wilderness.["]
[John D. Lee diary, "1844 Supplement", as quoted in Jedediah S. Rogers (editor), The Council of Fifty: A Documentary History, Signature Books (2014)]
said that ["]the saying of the Prophets would never be verified unless the House of the Lord be reared in the Tops of the Mountains & the Proud Banner of Liberty wave over the Valley's that are within the Mountains & I know where the spot is & I know how to make the Flag. Jos[eph Smith] sent out the coulours (colors)-& said where ever the coulours settled there would be the spot. There is another thing that I wish to say to this council[,] let an influence go out = we intend that every worthy man will recieve his endowment if not here [Nauvoo] he will have it in the wilderness.["]
[John D. Lee diary, "1844 Supplement", as quoted in Jedediah S. Rogers (editor), The Council of Fifty: A Documentary History, Signature Books (2014)]
180 years ago today - Tuesday, Jan 13, 1846
Nauvoo Temple Attic
A council was held in the Temple. The Captains of Fifties and Tens made reports of the number in their respective companies, who were prepared to start West immediately, should the persecutions of our enemies compel us to do so: one hundred and forty horses and seventy wagons were reported ready for immediate service.
[Historian's Office history, as quoted in Jedediah S. Rogers (editor), The Council of Fifty: A Documentary History, Signature Books (2014)]
A council was held in the Temple. The Captains of Fifties and Tens made reports of the number in their respective companies, who were prepared to start West immediately, should the persecutions of our enemies compel us to do so: one hundred and forty horses and seventy wagons were reported ready for immediate service.
[Historian's Office history, as quoted in Jedediah S. Rogers (editor), The Council of Fifty: A Documentary History, Signature Books (2014)]
190 years ago today - Jan 13, 1836
Joseph meets in council with the Missouri and Kirtland stake presidencies. Various changes in assignments in priesthood are made at this time; vacancies are filled. New officers are then set apart. Sidney Rigdon is administered to and healed from an ailment. Sidney then speaks on the subject of endowment and the meeting is concluded. Joseph records, "This has been one of the best days that I ever spent." (History of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (7 volumes) 2:364-68.)
[Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
195 years ago today - Jan 13, 1831
Missionaries arrive at Independence. Peter Whitmer works as a tailor and Ziba Peterson as a teacher to support the mission while Oliver, Parley, and Frederick cross into Indian territory to convert the Lamanites. (They are expelled in a few days by an Indian agent enforcing federal laws prohibiting unauthorized whites in the territory.)
[Kenney, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://web.archive.org/web/20120805163534/saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml]
[Kenney, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://web.archive.org/web/20120805163534/saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml]
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