[William Clayton (1st endomwnents in Nauvoo temple)]
This morning went up to the Temple in company with my wife and sister [Sarah Ann] Whitney. The morning very fine and pleasant but cold. I arrived at 10 o clock and found a number of the brethren already present and some of their wives. President [Brigham] Young engaged himself, by fixing the curtains on the East Window. I assisted him with Sisters Kimball, Pratt and Whitney. About half after 10 o clock it was reported that priest [Hamilton] Tucker (Catholic) and his associates were below waiting an interview with the Twelve and Council. At 11 1/4 Mr. [Hamilton] Tucker and Mr. [] Hamilton were admitted into the upper room of the Temple accompanied by Bishop Joseph L. Heywood who gave the gentlemen an introduction to those present. The propositions of the council in regard to the sale of our property were presented to Mr. Tucker in writing who read them over and then handed them to Mr. Hamilton who also read them. The gentlemen were then invited into President Youngs room with
myself, President Young, Willard Richards, Orson Hyde, John Taylor, Amasa Lyman, John E. Page, George A. Smith, P[arley] P. Pratt, George Miller, John M. Bernhisel, Joseph L. Heywood, W[illia]m Clayton. Mr. Tucker made some observations respecting the two Main Rooms of the Temple. He thought they were so high it would be difficult for a speaker. President Young replied and explained in regard to that matter, also the pulpits, place for the Organ &c. and also the side rooms. Mr. Hamilton asked a question as to the disposal of our public buildings. In answer to which Elder Hyde read aloud the written propositions and offered some explanations. A conversation then followed between Mr. Tucker, President Young and Elder Hyde on the subject. President Young remarked that we wish to realise from the sale of our property, sufficient to take all our poor with us in a comfortable manner. If he was alone he could take his rifle and make his way to the Pacific with little difficulty but at the
same time he don't wish to do it. He would rather have his wagons and go with all the rest of the Church comfortable.
Mr. Tucker said he thought it would be wisdom to publish our propositions in all the Catholic papers, and lay the matter plain before their people. He should also think it advisable for the Catholic Bishops to send a competent committee to asertain the value of our property &c. at the same time they will use all their influence to effect a sale as speedily as possible. He thinks they have men in St. Louis, New York and other Cities who could soon raise the amount we want, but the time is so very short, he dont know whether it can be done so soon. He then asked if we would be willing to have our propositions published in their papers. President Young replied we should have no objections providing it was understood that we reserve the right to sell when we had a chance. Elder P. P. Pratt thought it would be well to talk over the propositions and investigate them so as to have every thing perfectly and clearly understood. Mr. Hamilton wished to ascertain upon what conditions
they could obtain two of our public buildings, one for a school and one for a Church. They intended to write to the Bishop and wished to be able to supply him with some information on this subject.
President Young said he was well aware that there were many men in the Catholic Church who could furnish all the money we want at once, but he supposed it was with them as it was with a Mr. Butler who owned a wealthy Bank and asked why he did not sign off more Bills. He replied it was a good deal of trouble to sign off the Bills. He supposed it was too much trouble for them to dig their money out of their vaults. But he wished it understood that while we make a liberal proposition to dispose of our property we must have the means to help ourselves away.
Mr. Tucker said their object was to write to the Bishop and enclose our propositions in his letter, at the same time advising him either to come himself or to appoint a committee of efficient men to come and value the property and enter into terms for a final agreement. He said the sum to be raised was large and the time very short to the first of April but he thinks it can be accomplished. He thinks they can be able to give us a decided answer by the 25th inst.
President Young said he would like to add a note to our proposals before it goes for publication to this effect that If they agree to our propositions we will lease them the Temple for a period of from five to thirty 5 years at a reasonable price, the rent to be paid in finishing the unfinished parts of the Temple, the wall around the Temple Block, and the Block West of the Temple, and keeping the Temple in repair.
The council agreed to the amendment which was accordingly added to the proposals and handed to Mr. Tucker.
Mr. Tucker seemed to give much encouragement that an arrangement would speedily be entered into, to accomplish what we want. Both the gentlemen seem highly pleased with the Temple and the City and appear to feel sanguine that the Catholics should get this Temple and vicinity.
About half past 12 they departed evidently feeling well towards us.
W. W. Phelps has been appointed door keeper this day in place of Elder George A. Smith who is engaged with matters of more importance ....
At half past 3 o clock President Brigham Young, H. C. Kimball, John Taylor, P. P. Pratt, George Miller, Alpheus Cutler, Wm. Clayton, John M. Bernhisel and Lucien Woodworth retired to the Bishops room and consecrated 16 bottles of Oil which had been perfumed by Bishop Whitney for the purpose of anointing.
At 1/4 to 4 Elder Hyde came into my room and brought tidings that our Sheriff J[acob] B. Backenstos was clear and acquitted. The jury said if there had been no witnesses only on the part of the state it would not have required two minutes to have made up their verdict. They have got two of the mob witnesses in jail for perjury and Backenstos is gone to Springfield to request the Governor to withdraw his troops.
At 3 o clock Sister Mary Ann Young and Vilate Kimball, Elizabeth Ann Whitney, commenced washing and anointing each other being the first in this holy Temple of the Lord. This was done in the preparation room in the North West corner of the Attic story. About the same time President Young put up the vail in its place which things finish and complete the Celestial Room preparatory to the endowment...
At 25 minutes past 4 o clock President Young and Heber C. Kimball commenced washing Elder Willard Richards.
About 5 o clock Isaac Morley and his wife Lucy Morley came in. And about half past 5, Joseph Fielding and Joseph C. Kingsbury, C[ornelius] P. Lott. We continued washing and anointing those present till about 7 1/2 o clock.
At 20 minutes to 8 o clock President Young announced that all things were now ready to commence and go through with the ordinances. He said that after we get properly organized and ready to go on without confusion, no person will be permitted to talk, nor walk about in the main rooms, neither would any person be expected to be in the Celestial room only those who were necessary to carry on the work. At the same hour he took the chair and appointed P. P. Pratt and John Taylor to assist him in taking those through who were now prepared. W. W. Phelps acted as serpent ...These went through all the ordinances untill they were passed through the vail at which time it was half past nine o clock. President Young then called all present into the Celestial room where we kneeled down and Amasa Lyman offered up prayers.
Some of the brethren and sisters then retired home and the rest continued washing and anointing and taking through the whole ordinance until half past 3 o clock in the morning . . .
After all was lead through those present offered up the signs of the Holy Priesthood and offered up Prayers. Elder Orson Hyde gave praise to the Most High for his goodness. H. C. Kimball presides as Eloheem, Orson Hyde as Jehovah and George A. Smith as Michael and N. K. Whitney as the serpent. See 4 pages further.
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]
Today In Mormon History-fb
Several curious tidbits that happened on this day in Mormon History
180 years ago today - Dec 10, 1845
Lucy is endowed again with Elizabeth Ann Whitney, Agnes Coolbrith Smith, Mary Fielding Smith, and Mercy Fielding Thompson but refuses Brigham Young's January offer to have her sealing to Joseph Sr. and second anointing reconfirmed.
[Anderson, Lavina Fielding, Editor, Lucy's Book: A Critical Edition of Lucy Mack Smith's Family Memoir, 2001, Signature Books, http://bit.ly/lucys-book]
[Anderson, Lavina Fielding, Editor, Lucy's Book: A Critical Edition of Lucy Mack Smith's Family Memoir, 2001, Signature Books, http://bit.ly/lucys-book]
190 years ago today - Dec 10, 1835
[Joseph Smith]
This day my brethren meet according to previous ar[r]angement to chop and haul wood for me. They have been verry industrious and I think they have supplyed me with my winters wood for which I am sincerely grateful to each and every one of them for this expression of their goodness towards me.
In the name of Jesus Christ I envoke the rich benediction of heav[e]n to rest upon them even all and their families. ... Also powers of intellect and understanding hearts that they may treasure up wisdom, understanding and intel[l]igence above measure and be preserved from plagues, pestilence and famine and from the power of the adversary and the hands of evil designing men and have power over all their enemys. And [may] the way be prepared before them that they may journey to the land of Zion and be established on their inheritances to enjoy undisturbe[d] peace and happiness for ever and ultimately to be crowned with everlasting life in the Celestial Kingdom of God. Which blessings I ask in the name of Jesus of Nazareth. Amen.
...This afternoon, I was called in company with President David Whitmer to visit Sister Angeline Works who lives at Elder Booth's. We found her verry sick and so much deranged that She did not recognize her friends and intimate acquaintences. We prayed for and layed hands on her in the name of Jesus Christ and commanded her in his name to receive he[r] senses which was immediately restored to her. We also asked a healing blessing prayed that she might be restored to health. She said she was better....
[Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1835-36, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]
This day my brethren meet according to previous ar[r]angement to chop and haul wood for me. They have been verry industrious and I think they have supplyed me with my winters wood for which I am sincerely grateful to each and every one of them for this expression of their goodness towards me.
In the name of Jesus Christ I envoke the rich benediction of heav[e]n to rest upon them even all and their families. ... Also powers of intellect and understanding hearts that they may treasure up wisdom, understanding and intel[l]igence above measure and be preserved from plagues, pestilence and famine and from the power of the adversary and the hands of evil designing men and have power over all their enemys. And [may] the way be prepared before them that they may journey to the land of Zion and be established on their inheritances to enjoy undisturbe[d] peace and happiness for ever and ultimately to be crowned with everlasting life in the Celestial Kingdom of God. Which blessings I ask in the name of Jesus of Nazareth. Amen.
...This afternoon, I was called in company with President David Whitmer to visit Sister Angeline Works who lives at Elder Booth's. We found her verry sick and so much deranged that She did not recognize her friends and intimate acquaintences. We prayed for and layed hands on her in the name of Jesus Christ and commanded her in his name to receive he[r] senses which was immediately restored to her. We also asked a healing blessing prayed that she might be restored to health. She said she was better....
[Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1835-36, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]
40 years ago today - Dec 9, 1985
The Birch Society's new magazine immediately heralded the appointment of "the long-time Americanist patriot" Ezra Taft Benson as the new LDS president. "As in numerous past attempts to smear him and distract from his anti-Communist message, recent news articles have linked Benson to The John Birch Society," the magazine noted two weeks later in its regular "American Hero" section. The Birch magazine then mentioned Reed Benson's affiliation and quoted President Benson: "I do not belong to The John Birch Society, but I have always defended this group."
["New Head of Mormon Church," The New American 1 (25 Nov. 1985): 9; Evans-Raymond Pierre, "The True Man of Principle: Ezra Taft Benson," The New American 1 (9 Dec. 1985): 56. From D. Michael Quinn, Ezra Taft Benson and Mormon Political Conflicts, Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought 26:2 (Summer 1992), also in Quinn, The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power Salt Lake City (Signature Books, 1994), Chapter 3.]
["New Head of Mormon Church," The New American 1 (25 Nov. 1985): 9; Evans-Raymond Pierre, "The True Man of Principle: Ezra Taft Benson," The New American 1 (9 Dec. 1985): 56. From D. Michael Quinn, Ezra Taft Benson and Mormon Political Conflicts, Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought 26:2 (Summer 1992), also in Quinn, The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power Salt Lake City (Signature Books, 1994), Chapter 3.]
55 years ago today - Dec 9, 1970
[First Presidency to Temple Presidents]
Consideration has been given to the various methods of presenting the endowment ceremonies in the temples. We have learned that in some temples the endowment ceremony has been given by voice on tapes alone, where no picture is shown by film or slide nor by live dramatization. After giving careful consideration to this matter, we now request that hereafter the endowment not be presented merely by tape recordings. We are certain that some reflection on this matter will convince you that this is the least effective method of teaching and that other methods are much more satisfactory both for those going through for their own endowments or as proxies for those deceased.
[Joseph Fielding Smith, Harold B. Lee, and N. Eldon Tanner to temple presidents, Dec. 9, 1970, copy in Buerger Papers, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
Consideration has been given to the various methods of presenting the endowment ceremonies in the temples. We have learned that in some temples the endowment ceremony has been given by voice on tapes alone, where no picture is shown by film or slide nor by live dramatization. After giving careful consideration to this matter, we now request that hereafter the endowment not be presented merely by tape recordings. We are certain that some reflection on this matter will convince you that this is the least effective method of teaching and that other methods are much more satisfactory both for those going through for their own endowments or as proxies for those deceased.
[Joseph Fielding Smith, Harold B. Lee, and N. Eldon Tanner to temple presidents, Dec. 9, 1970, copy in Buerger Papers, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
120 years ago today - Dec 9, 1905
[George F. Gibbs to Reed Smoot]
On Friday the brethren all met and considered the question of resignations [of two apostles], and the telegram sent you that day was the result of their deliberations. In coming to that conclusion their idea was to put off action, and great relief was experienced in the conclusion. I sent you a telegram myself, and that was done to help you to frame your mind to, in my opinion, their inevitable conclusion at last. Since then, or about two hours afterwards your long telegram was received in which you say you are quite certain you will not be expelled [from the Senate], and that the general feeling is that the case will not be re- opened unless material testimony can be produced.... And I feel to say to you, at this early consideration of the subject, that if you will cast aside for ever all thought of making a sacrifice of zoanthropia [i.e., John W. Taylor] whimper [i.e., Matthias F. Cowley] you will begin to see your way brighten, for such a thing cannot be done simply in hope of
avoiding drastic legislation, nor for the purpose of convincing friends that the ziamet [i.e., Joseph F. Smith] is honest. ... Senator, don't destroy this until you are ready to do so, as you may have to look at it again. This is the word to you. It would be the word to me if I were in your place; and if you will let the spirit of this note burn in your heart, I will promise you again the ram will come, for he must. I'm praying that you may have strength as your day, as that is all you need. Yahoo.
[George F. Gibbs, Letter to Reed Smoot, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
On Friday the brethren all met and considered the question of resignations [of two apostles], and the telegram sent you that day was the result of their deliberations. In coming to that conclusion their idea was to put off action, and great relief was experienced in the conclusion. I sent you a telegram myself, and that was done to help you to frame your mind to, in my opinion, their inevitable conclusion at last. Since then, or about two hours afterwards your long telegram was received in which you say you are quite certain you will not be expelled [from the Senate], and that the general feeling is that the case will not be re- opened unless material testimony can be produced.... And I feel to say to you, at this early consideration of the subject, that if you will cast aside for ever all thought of making a sacrifice of zoanthropia [i.e., John W. Taylor] whimper [i.e., Matthias F. Cowley] you will begin to see your way brighten, for such a thing cannot be done simply in hope of
avoiding drastic legislation, nor for the purpose of convincing friends that the ziamet [i.e., Joseph F. Smith] is honest. ... Senator, don't destroy this until you are ready to do so, as you may have to look at it again. This is the word to you. It would be the word to me if I were in your place; and if you will let the spirit of this note burn in your heart, I will promise you again the ram will come, for he must. I'm praying that you may have strength as your day, as that is all you need. Yahoo.
[George F. Gibbs, Letter to Reed Smoot, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
125 years ago today - Dec 9, 1900 (Sunday)
The Congregationalists of Washington passed resolutions urging a constitutional amendment against polygamy.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
140 years ago today - Dec 9, 1885
[JohnTaylor]
Though the deceased son of Bishop David H. Cannon * George Q. * was quite young when he died, still as he is so highly recommended, you may administer to his representative and the representative of the deceased [women] who have been seal'd to him the ordinance of Second Anointing.
[John Taylor to John D. T. McAllister, Dec. 9, 1885, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
Though the deceased son of Bishop David H. Cannon * George Q. * was quite young when he died, still as he is so highly recommended, you may administer to his representative and the representative of the deceased [women] who have been seal'd to him the ordinance of Second Anointing.
[John Taylor to John D. T. McAllister, Dec. 9, 1885, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
165 years ago today - Dec 9, 1860
[Brigham Young]
Touched on the position of the U.S. at the present time [entering into civil war]. Showed that they [were] trying all the time to fulfill the sayings of Joseph Smith Junior. Spoke of our return (in spite of hell or our enemies either) to Jackson County, Missouri. -- SLC Tabernacle
[Diary of Charles Lowell Walker. Andrew Karl Larson, ed. Logan: Utah State University Press, 1980. 151-152, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
Touched on the position of the U.S. at the present time [entering into civil war]. Showed that they [were] trying all the time to fulfill the sayings of Joseph Smith Junior. Spoke of our return (in spite of hell or our enemies either) to Jackson County, Missouri. -- SLC Tabernacle
[Diary of Charles Lowell Walker. Andrew Karl Larson, ed. Logan: Utah State University Press, 1980. 151-152, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
175 years ago today - Dec 09, 1850
Marsena Cannon, the first photographer in Utah, begins advertising his services to execute "Daguerreotype Likenesses" in Salt Lake City, Utah. His images preserve our earliest views of Latter-day Saints and their community in the Rocky Mountains.
180 years ago today - Dec 9, 1845
[Heber C. Kimball]
Plesent. Br. B Young and my self got in to the Temple little before 10 in the morning. Found David Candland and Joseph Young. El. B. [Young] gave the dore keeper a charge, to be more strick in his duty. Still fixing up the rooms. ... We are at this time wating fore the two west Rooms for washing. ... Elder Young is putting up a Marble Clock by the East window. The stoves in the wash rooms are fitted up and fire in them. We shall begin our opperations to morrow Morning if the Lord will. O Lord be with Thy servents and inspire thare hearts with lite and knowlledge, so that they may not go rong in the ordanance of the Holy Preasthood and Thy name shall have all the Glory. ... At 5 the Twelve met in council at W. Richards with two Cathlcks Preas. Mr. Tucer [Tucker] of Quincy and Mr. Hamilton of Springfield com[e] to contract fore [the purchase of] our City. From there went back to the Temple.
...Elder B. Young and H. C. Kimball washed our selvs in pur water, fore time and also G. A. Smith, Am. Limon, and [were] the first washed in the Temple of the Lord. And also finished a Leter to the Catholocks, giving our propsels, to sell. We had a good time before the Lord. We shall come to Morrow with our wives, that is all the Holy Order to go through with our washings and Anointing again in the Temple of our God.
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
Plesent. Br. B Young and my self got in to the Temple little before 10 in the morning. Found David Candland and Joseph Young. El. B. [Young] gave the dore keeper a charge, to be more strick in his duty. Still fixing up the rooms. ... We are at this time wating fore the two west Rooms for washing. ... Elder Young is putting up a Marble Clock by the East window. The stoves in the wash rooms are fitted up and fire in them. We shall begin our opperations to morrow Morning if the Lord will. O Lord be with Thy servents and inspire thare hearts with lite and knowlledge, so that they may not go rong in the ordanance of the Holy Preasthood and Thy name shall have all the Glory. ... At 5 the Twelve met in council at W. Richards with two Cathlcks Preas. Mr. Tucer [Tucker] of Quincy and Mr. Hamilton of Springfield com[e] to contract fore [the purchase of] our City. From there went back to the Temple.
...Elder B. Young and H. C. Kimball washed our selvs in pur water, fore time and also G. A. Smith, Am. Limon, and [were] the first washed in the Temple of the Lord. And also finished a Leter to the Catholocks, giving our propsels, to sell. We had a good time before the Lord. We shall come to Morrow with our wives, that is all the Holy Order to go through with our washings and Anointing again in the Temple of our God.
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
185 years ago today - Dec 9, 1840
A bill to incorporate the city of Nauvoo is passed by the state senate. One senator jokingly tries to amend the bill title to "A Bill for the Encouragement of the Importation of Mormons." This proposal is withdrawn.
[Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
60 years ago today - Dec 8, 1965
McKay's secretary, Clare Middlemiss ... wrote a church member: "President McKay has further instructed me to tell you that Elder Ezra Taft Benson has not been rebuked by the Church . . . and, since Communism is a definite threat to the eternal principle of free agency, it cannot be considered that he is `out of line' when discussing it in talks."
[Middlemiss to Russell F. Dickey, 8 Dec. 1965. From D. Michael Quinn, Ezra Taft Benson and Mormon Political Conflicts, Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought 26:2 (Summer 1992), also in Quinn, The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power Salt Lake City (Signature Books, 1994), Chapter 3.]
[Middlemiss to Russell F. Dickey, 8 Dec. 1965. From D. Michael Quinn, Ezra Taft Benson and Mormon Political Conflicts, Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought 26:2 (Summer 1992), also in Quinn, The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power Salt Lake City (Signature Books, 1994), Chapter 3.]
75 years ago today - Dec 8, 1950
[John A. Widtsoe]
I am somewhat perplexed. Our present practice with respect to Seventies does not seem to harmonize with the views expressed in the attached documents [i.e., Journal History, December 14, 1845, p. 1, and Deseret News 26:274 of talk of Brigham Young on May 25, 1877]. Our Church history makes it very clear that when a man is ordained a Seventy he should not at the same time be ordained a High Priest; and on the following page it also states that the Seventies should be drawn from the Elders Quorum.
[John A. Widtsoe, Letter to George Albert Smith, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
I am somewhat perplexed. Our present practice with respect to Seventies does not seem to harmonize with the views expressed in the attached documents [i.e., Journal History, December 14, 1845, p. 1, and Deseret News 26:274 of talk of Brigham Young on May 25, 1877]. Our Church history makes it very clear that when a man is ordained a Seventy he should not at the same time be ordained a High Priest; and on the following page it also states that the Seventies should be drawn from the Elders Quorum.
[John A. Widtsoe, Letter to George Albert Smith, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
120 years ago today - Dec 8, 1905
[Apostle/Senator Reed Smoot]
I have concluded in my own mind that public announcement of resignations [of apostles Cowley and Taylor] made at this late day would have an unfavorable effect upon the country and Senators. ... The question of [John W.] Taylor and [Matthias F.] Cowley taking plural wives is the only questions talked of among the Senators, or at least the only one I hear. ... Your telegrams impress me with this idea: You have decided not to use the resignations of Taylor and Cowley unless I say they are necessary to save my expulsion, or save me [as U. S. senator]. ... I would rather be expelled from the Senate, go home and resign from the Quorum than have it said now, or hereafter, that Taylor and Cowley was sacrificed or resigned to save me. If Taylor and Cowley have done no wrong and their acts meet with the approval of the Brethern for Heavens sake don't handle them but let us take the consequences; but I cannot bring myself to believe that President Snow would time and again deceive the
Quorum or that President Smith is an untruthful man. I would about as soon lose my life as to become convinced of it.
[Reed Smoot, Letter to the First Presidency, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
I have concluded in my own mind that public announcement of resignations [of apostles Cowley and Taylor] made at this late day would have an unfavorable effect upon the country and Senators. ... The question of [John W.] Taylor and [Matthias F.] Cowley taking plural wives is the only questions talked of among the Senators, or at least the only one I hear. ... Your telegrams impress me with this idea: You have decided not to use the resignations of Taylor and Cowley unless I say they are necessary to save my expulsion, or save me [as U. S. senator]. ... I would rather be expelled from the Senate, go home and resign from the Quorum than have it said now, or hereafter, that Taylor and Cowley was sacrificed or resigned to save me. If Taylor and Cowley have done no wrong and their acts meet with the approval of the Brethern for Heavens sake don't handle them but let us take the consequences; but I cannot bring myself to believe that President Snow would time and again deceive the
Quorum or that President Smith is an untruthful man. I would about as soon lose my life as to become convinced of it.
[Reed Smoot, Letter to the First Presidency, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
130 years ago today - Dec 8, 1895
[President Wilford Woodruff]
After the Sacrament I WW spoke to the Assembly 40 Minuts. My Lungs was Strong & voice was Clear And I Enjoyed myself vary much and Enabled me to give to the Saints what the Lord had revealed to me by his spirit.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
After the Sacrament I WW spoke to the Assembly 40 Minuts. My Lungs was Strong & voice was Clear And I Enjoyed myself vary much and Enabled me to give to the Saints what the Lord had revealed to me by his spirit.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
135 years ago today - Dec 8, 1890
Sister Zina D. H. Young submitted a knitted garment something like our garments which is made in the East and asked if such may be marked & have a collar put on it and used as out Temple garment. It was decided by the First Presidency that such garments should not be used in lieu of the pattern given.
[L. John Nuttall Journal, Vol 3, p. 227; 8 December 1890, in The Temple Timeline (Masons, Ancient Temples, Garments and a Lot More), http://www.exploringmormonism.com/the-temple-timeline-masons-ancient-temples-garments-and-a-lot-more/]
[L. John Nuttall Journal, Vol 3, p. 227; 8 December 1890, in The Temple Timeline (Masons, Ancient Temples, Garments and a Lot More), http://www.exploringmormonism.com/the-temple-timeline-masons-ancient-temples-garments-and-a-lot-more/]
140 years ago today - Dec 8, 1885 (Tuesday)
Senator Edmunds introduced another anti-polygamy bill in the U.S. Senate.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
180 years ago today - Dec 8, 1845
[Heber C. Kimball]
.... Elder Phelps Brought in some grape Vines, and hung cluster of Rasens [raisins] to them as the chois [choice] fruit [in the garden room]. Pr. B. Young quite sick, Lays on his couch. I have just got up the curtens over the top of the canvas. ... Phinas, A. Young, Pr. B. Young chasened him [Phineas] for marking his churts [shirts]—after the order of the Preasthood—fore it was Forgary [forgery] and wicked in the sight of God. He, Phineus, said he thought it was the marks of a Master Mason. It was advised by our Presiden[t Brigham Young that] Phineus, and his son Brigham H., Jessa [Jessie] D. Hunter, Hosa[e] Stout go to England soon as possable. ... Our paintings and Maps are hungup, and all things Look well and Heavenly. It is now dusk. John D. Lee and others have been fitting up stoves in the two west rooms, as they will be devoted to washing and Anointing and to heat water. We have two Large traves [troughs? lavers?], made fore Baptising the sick in, one was made by B. Young,
and one by me self for our famiies so we devote them to the good of all the saints. Three men can wash in either of them at the same time. The Br. are now begining to come in fore prair and council. ... Our meting small this Evning. It is now 25 to 7. All the Brethren clothed, 15 present. Conversing about famains [famines] in England and other parts [of the world?]. Georg Miller was mouth. Got through at 7 Oclock, then dismesed [dismissed] and went home. I went to B. Fuller to see two sisters from Boston. From thence went to Steven Winchesters to Lay hands on Mariah Winchester. She had fits. When I got home I tired out, half past 10.
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
.... Elder Phelps Brought in some grape Vines, and hung cluster of Rasens [raisins] to them as the chois [choice] fruit [in the garden room]. Pr. B. Young quite sick, Lays on his couch. I have just got up the curtens over the top of the canvas. ... Phinas, A. Young, Pr. B. Young chasened him [Phineas] for marking his churts [shirts]—after the order of the Preasthood—fore it was Forgary [forgery] and wicked in the sight of God. He, Phineus, said he thought it was the marks of a Master Mason. It was advised by our Presiden[t Brigham Young that] Phineus, and his son Brigham H., Jessa [Jessie] D. Hunter, Hosa[e] Stout go to England soon as possable. ... Our paintings and Maps are hungup, and all things Look well and Heavenly. It is now dusk. John D. Lee and others have been fitting up stoves in the two west rooms, as they will be devoted to washing and Anointing and to heat water. We have two Large traves [troughs? lavers?], made fore Baptising the sick in, one was made by B. Young,
and one by me self for our famiies so we devote them to the good of all the saints. Three men can wash in either of them at the same time. The Br. are now begining to come in fore prair and council. ... Our meting small this Evning. It is now 25 to 7. All the Brethren clothed, 15 present. Conversing about famains [famines] in England and other parts [of the world?]. Georg Miller was mouth. Got through at 7 Oclock, then dismesed [dismissed] and went home. I went to B. Fuller to see two sisters from Boston. From thence went to Steven Winchesters to Lay hands on Mariah Winchester. She had fits. When I got home I tired out, half past 10.
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
80 years ago today - Dec 7, 1945
[George Albert Smith]
Even to imply that member of the Church are not to do their own thinking is grossly to misrepresent the true ideal fo the Church, which is that every individual must obtain for himself a testimony of the truth of the Gospel, must, through the redemption of Jesus Christ, work out his own salvation, and is personally responsible to His Maker for his individual acts. The Lord Himself does not attempt coercion in His desire and effort to give peace and salvation to His children. He gives the principles of life and true progress, but leaves every person free to choose or to reject His teachings. This plan the Authorities of the Church try to follow.
[George Albert Smith, Letter to J. Raymond Cope, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
Even to imply that member of the Church are not to do their own thinking is grossly to misrepresent the true ideal fo the Church, which is that every individual must obtain for himself a testimony of the truth of the Gospel, must, through the redemption of Jesus Christ, work out his own salvation, and is personally responsible to His Maker for his individual acts. The Lord Himself does not attempt coercion in His desire and effort to give peace and salvation to His children. He gives the principles of life and true progress, but leaves every person free to choose or to reject His teachings. This plan the Authorities of the Church try to follow.
[George Albert Smith, Letter to J. Raymond Cope, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
115 years ago today - Dec 7, 1910
President [David H.] Cannon was very pleased with the privilege of greeting the saints this morning. Wished more were here. Spoke a few words about the garment. We are told the garment is a pattern of one given to Adam and Eve in the garden. If the sleeve is cut off it will not be the proper garment. Said, President [Brigham] Young once told a young woman that they could turn in the collar and roll up the sleeves but they must not cut them off. President Cannon instructed the Ordinance Workers to clothe the people with the proper garments. Spoke of the responsibility of those taking names to see that the dead are properly endowed and of those taking [dramatic] parts to render them correctly and of those engaged in any manner in this work.
[Temple Minute Book, St. George, Dec. 7, 1910, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
[Temple Minute Book, St. George, Dec. 7, 1910, in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
140 years ago today - Dec 7, 1885 (Monday)
The City Council of Salt Lake City, after a thorough investigation, found that there was not the least danger of a "Mormon" uprising, and that telegraphic dispatches, sent to Washington, D.C., by Federal officials, were entirely false.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
165 years ago today - Dec 7, 1860
The President [Brigham Young] remarked that the whites by mingling their seed with the blacks entailed on their own posterity the curse that fell upon the blacks. He further remarked all the Sons of Adam will receive their priesthood before the blood of Cain and then the curse will be removed by their receiving it. -- Salt Lake City
[Brigham Young Office Journals, Special Collections, Merrill-Cazier Library, Utah State University, Logan, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
[Brigham Young Office Journals, Special Collections, Merrill-Cazier Library, Utah State University, Logan, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
180 years ago today - Dec 7, 1845. Sunday.
[William Clayton]
In the Temple all day. All the first quorum with one or two exceptions were present both male and female. About 1 o'clock we clothed. Dressed in ceremonial robes and aprons. The meeting was opened by prayer by Joseph Fielding. After which Elders Taylor, Hyde, Phelps, Pratt and John Smith each expressed their feelings in regard to our present privilege of meeting in the Temple in spite of the combined opposition of men and devils. During the speaking, the Bishops having provided Bread and Wine, the bread was broke by Brother Kimball and then blessed by him and handed round by Bishop Whitney. Joseph Young then blessed the wine which was also passed around by Brother Whitney. President Young then addressed the company. He said the time would come when the Celestial law would be put in force and that law forbids any man taking the name of God in vain. But we have men in our midst who do not scruple to say by God, by Jesus Christ, God damn you &c. and the time will come when the law
will be put in force on all such. He gave much good instruction and the spirit of God rested upon him. He stated "that a few of the quorum had met twice a week ever since Joseph and Hyrum were killed and during the last excitement, every day and in the hottest part of it twice a day to offer up the signs and pray to our heavenly father to deliver his people and this is the cord which has bound this people together. If this quorum and those who shall be admitted into it will be as diligent in prayer as a few has been I promise you in the name of Israels God that we shall accomplish the will of God and go out in due time from the gentiles with power and plenty and no power shall stay us." After the exhortation we offered up the signs and had prayers for the usual subject. Joseph Young being mouth. We were then dismissed until next Sunday at 11 o'clock.
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]
In the Temple all day. All the first quorum with one or two exceptions were present both male and female. About 1 o'clock we clothed. Dressed in ceremonial robes and aprons. The meeting was opened by prayer by Joseph Fielding. After which Elders Taylor, Hyde, Phelps, Pratt and John Smith each expressed their feelings in regard to our present privilege of meeting in the Temple in spite of the combined opposition of men and devils. During the speaking, the Bishops having provided Bread and Wine, the bread was broke by Brother Kimball and then blessed by him and handed round by Bishop Whitney. Joseph Young then blessed the wine which was also passed around by Brother Whitney. President Young then addressed the company. He said the time would come when the Celestial law would be put in force and that law forbids any man taking the name of God in vain. But we have men in our midst who do not scruple to say by God, by Jesus Christ, God damn you &c. and the time will come when the law
will be put in force on all such. He gave much good instruction and the spirit of God rested upon him. He stated "that a few of the quorum had met twice a week ever since Joseph and Hyrum were killed and during the last excitement, every day and in the hottest part of it twice a day to offer up the signs and pray to our heavenly father to deliver his people and this is the cord which has bound this people together. If this quorum and those who shall be admitted into it will be as diligent in prayer as a few has been I promise you in the name of Israels God that we shall accomplish the will of God and go out in due time from the gentiles with power and plenty and no power shall stay us." After the exhortation we offered up the signs and had prayers for the usual subject. Joseph Young being mouth. We were then dismissed until next Sunday at 11 o'clock.
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://bit.ly/WilliamClayton]
180 years ago today - Dec 7, 1845
[Heber C. Kimball]
The following Persons are members of the Holy Order of the Holy Preasthood having Recieved it in the Life time of Joseph and Hirum, the Prophets. Elder B. Young went and gave the Brethren and Sisters present a view of the Seprate rooms, and the object of them, then pute up the Veil and choe [showed] the Order of it. The Brethren and Sisters clothed half past one, commenced our meeting at two Oclock. Meeting [opened] by prair by Joseph Fielding, sung humn and Elder John Tailor spoke a chort time then H. C. Kimball spoke. Elder B. was sick and had to retire to his room and lay down on his couch. Then Elder O. Hide gave a chort exortation. After he closed, him [hymn] sung. Then H. C. K. [Heber C. KImball], N. K. [Newell K. Whitney] brock [broke] Bread. Blessed by H. C. K. Elder B. Young come in pertaock [partook], carid around by N. K. Wine, blest by Joseph Young, Carrid round by N. K. Singing while the wine going round. Then El. P. P. Pratt rose and spoke on a simeler object before
the pople. W. W. Pheps spoke. It was 3 Oclock when we partoock of sacrement. Great Solemnity rested on the Breth and sisters, great union in our meeting. Seven present have not had thare Last [or second] Anointing. L. Woodworth and wife Sister Tomson, Wm. Claton, Joseph Kingsbury, John Benhisel, Sister Marinda Hide, Agness Smith, the wife of Don Smith. John Smith our Patriarch spoke a chort time them Elder B. Young Said this quorum should meet heare evry Sabath and take of the Sacrament. The Br. and Sisters ware completly clothed. Elder B. Young gave us good council. We offerd up the Signs Little after fore, got through at five. G. A. Smith mouth. When he got through all went home in good spirrits.
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
The following Persons are members of the Holy Order of the Holy Preasthood having Recieved it in the Life time of Joseph and Hirum, the Prophets. Elder B. Young went and gave the Brethren and Sisters present a view of the Seprate rooms, and the object of them, then pute up the Veil and choe [showed] the Order of it. The Brethren and Sisters clothed half past one, commenced our meeting at two Oclock. Meeting [opened] by prair by Joseph Fielding, sung humn and Elder John Tailor spoke a chort time then H. C. Kimball spoke. Elder B. was sick and had to retire to his room and lay down on his couch. Then Elder O. Hide gave a chort exortation. After he closed, him [hymn] sung. Then H. C. K. [Heber C. KImball], N. K. [Newell K. Whitney] brock [broke] Bread. Blessed by H. C. K. Elder B. Young come in pertaock [partook], carid around by N. K. Wine, blest by Joseph Young, Carrid round by N. K. Singing while the wine going round. Then El. P. P. Pratt rose and spoke on a simeler object before
the pople. W. W. Pheps spoke. It was 3 Oclock when we partoock of sacrement. Great Solemnity rested on the Breth and sisters, great union in our meeting. Seven present have not had thare Last [or second] Anointing. L. Woodworth and wife Sister Tomson, Wm. Claton, Joseph Kingsbury, John Benhisel, Sister Marinda Hide, Agness Smith, the wife of Don Smith. John Smith our Patriarch spoke a chort time them Elder B. Young Said this quorum should meet heare evry Sabath and take of the Sacrament. The Br. and Sisters ware completly clothed. Elder B. Young gave us good council. We offerd up the Signs Little after fore, got through at five. G. A. Smith mouth. When he got through all went home in good spirrits.
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
195 years ago today - Dec 7, 1830
Joseph Smith receives a revelation (D&C 35) noting that Sidney Rigdon is sent forth as a John the Baptist to prepare for Jesus Christ and Elijah which should come.
[Mark Lyman Staker, Hearken, O Ye People: The Historical Setting of Joseph Smith's Ohio Revelations: A Selective Chronology of Significant Events in Ohio's LDS History]
[Mark Lyman Staker, Hearken, O Ye People: The Historical Setting of Joseph Smith's Ohio Revelations: A Selective Chronology of Significant Events in Ohio's LDS History]
195 years ago today - December 1830 (after 7 December)
Section 37, Place: (Canadaigua, Ontario County, New York, as per Book of Commandments).
Historical Note: Section 37 is the first revelation which addressed the need of the Church membership to move to Ohio. The revelation also instructed Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon to stop the work of translating the Bible until they moved to "the Ohio."
[Cook, Lyndon, Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]
Historical Note: Section 37 is the first revelation which addressed the need of the Church membership to move to Ohio. The revelation also instructed Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon to stop the work of translating the Bible until they moved to "the Ohio."
[Cook, Lyndon, Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]
195 years ago today - Dec 7, 1830
Mr. Oliver Cowdery has his commission directly from the God of heaven, and that he has his credentials, written and signed by the hand of Jesus Christ, with whom he has personally conversed, and as such, said Cowdry claims that he and his associates are the only persons on earth who are qualified to administer in his name. By this authority, they proclaim to the world, that all who do not believe their testimony, and be baptized by them ... must be forever miserable.
[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]
195 years ago today - 7-Dec 24, 1830
Joseph Smith revises Genesis (Moses 6:52a-68; 7:1-8:12), dictating also the "Prophecy of Enoch" . This portion of Old Testament Manuscript #1 (Community of Christ Library-Archives) is in the handwriting of John Whitmer and Sidney Rigdon (Matthews 1975, 65-66, 69). John Whitmer says the revelation was received in Fayette (NY) shortly after the arrival of Sidney Rigdon in early December 1830. Afterwards, according to Whitmer, "Joseph and Sidney went to the several churchs preaching and prophesying wher=ever they went".
[Vogel, Dan, Early Mormon Documents, Appendix B: Chronology, 1771-1831, http://amzn.to/T5nY8w]
[Vogel, Dan, Early Mormon Documents, Appendix B: Chronology, 1771-1831, http://amzn.to/T5nY8w]
75 years ago today - Dec 6, 1950
[George Albert Smith]
[Regarding the termination of the current manager of the Temple Square Coffee Shop:] His employment has been discontinued and the Brethren will give consideration tomorrow in the Temple meeting to selecting a new bishop to take his place.
[George Albert Smith Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
[Regarding the termination of the current manager of the Temple Square Coffee Shop:] His employment has been discontinued and the Brethren will give consideration tomorrow in the Temple meeting to selecting a new bishop to take his place.
[George Albert Smith Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
100 years ago today - Dec 6, 1925
In Buenos Aires, Argentina, Elder Melvin J. Ballard organizes the South American Mission, the first mission in South America.
[LDS Daily, www.ldsdaily.com]
[LDS Daily, www.ldsdaily.com]
100 years ago today - Dec 6, 1925
Elder Melvin J. Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve established a mission in South America with headquarters in Buenos Aires, Argentina, opening the Church's official work in South America, which he dedicated for the preaching of the gospel on Dec. 25.
[Church News: Historical Chronology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, http://www.ldschurchnewsarchive.com/articles/58765/Historical-chronology-of-The-Church-of-Jesus-Christ-of-Latter-day-Saints.html]
[Church News: Historical Chronology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, http://www.ldschurchnewsarchive.com/articles/58765/Historical-chronology-of-The-Church-of-Jesus-Christ-of-Latter-day-Saints.html]
125 years ago today - Thursday, Dec 6, 1900
A question arose regarding church publications, namely, as to whether it would be wise to combine and publish them under one cover. The publications referred to, more [Juvenile Instructor, Era, and Young Ladies Journal]. The matter was discussed pretty freely, Apostles J. H. Smith, H. J. Grant, and myself being in favor of the proposition, and Apostle A. H. Lund opposed to it. It was finally decided that no recommendation be made by the council, but that the magazine companies themselves deal with this question.
Apostle H. J. Grant made some remarks in regard to Saltair and said that, in engaging a manager for next year, he thought it should be distinctly understood that no liquor should be sold there. This seemed to be the mind of most all the brethren present. President Snow said that, while he was personally in favor of restricting the liquor traffic, when we deal with people outside the church as well as those inside, we have to be wise and get along the best we can.
The question arose as to whether it would be wise for Reed Smoot, one of our number, to make an effort to secure the senatorship from Utah. Success seemed to be fairly within his reach. A proposition was made that President Wm. McKinley, Mark Hanna, and other distinguished men of the party be consulted, and, if they thought it proper so [to] do, then Apostle Smoot was to enter the race. The gentiles already have two congressmen from Utah, and it is thought that the "Mormons" are justly entitled to the third. Benediction by Apostle J. H. Smith.
[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]
Apostle H. J. Grant made some remarks in regard to Saltair and said that, in engaging a manager for next year, he thought it should be distinctly understood that no liquor should be sold there. This seemed to be the mind of most all the brethren present. President Snow said that, while he was personally in favor of restricting the liquor traffic, when we deal with people outside the church as well as those inside, we have to be wise and get along the best we can.
The question arose as to whether it would be wise for Reed Smoot, one of our number, to make an effort to secure the senatorship from Utah. Success seemed to be fairly within his reach. A proposition was made that President Wm. McKinley, Mark Hanna, and other distinguished men of the party be consulted, and, if they thought it proper so [to] do, then Apostle Smoot was to enter the race. The gentiles already have two congressmen from Utah, and it is thought that the "Mormons" are justly entitled to the third. Benediction by Apostle J. H. Smith.
[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]
180 years ago today - Dec 6, 1845
[Heber C. Kimball]
Sister Electa Crane, and Sister Brewor, Br. John D. Lee, B. Young went to work on the Alters [of the Nauvoo temple]. Peas dwels here in the Hous of the Lord. We all feel to Rejoice before the Lord that he in His kind providence has permited His servents to finish the Attick. Elder W. W. Phelps come in 20 Minits past Eleven with some seders [cedars]. Br. We[e]ks and Br. [Truman] Angel ware ingaged with us preparing the rooms. ... George Miller, N. K. Whitney come in little past 12. W. Phelps, George Miller, and my self began to fix the Trees. At 1 Oclock the rooms ware cleard of all but those of the Holly Order, so that set things in order fore the Sabath ... Returned back to the Temple, put up the Looking glasses, and Maps and potrats. As William W. Majors [an English artist] brought som up from his chop [shop] to Adorn our room. The trees set in order in the garden. Sister Elzebeth Ann Whitney come in and sode [sewed] on the fringe, going over the Top of the canvas running threw
the room crost from North to South. G. A. Smith and Amasa Lyman come in three in the after [noon], Sister Clarisa and Emily Cutler mad[e] a Coten [cotten] Veil going before the Linnen Veil. Jullia Durphy assisted in making the Veil Linnen, Joseph L. Heywood come in to our upper room as the sun was setting. L. Wodworth put up the clock on west end of the East room.
Sister Sophia Lyon[s], Brought me in a fine rocken chare [rocking chair] and a comforter. She has also brought in pictures, and Evergreens R. Cutler got over the River 369.25, three hunred and sixty nine dollars and twenty five cents. The cours [coarse] Veil was put up this Eve by B. Young, R. Cahoon.
Of the Twelve Present, President B. Young, H. C. Kimball, G. A. Smith, A. Limon, J. Tailor, High Preas A. Cutler, R. Cahoon, I. Morly, John Smith, W. W. Phelps, N. K. Whitney, G. Miller, Wm. Claton, L. Woodworth, Joseph Kingsbury, O. Spencer. We clothed, and praid all to gether. Twelve and High Preas. W. W. Phelps being Mouth, the Lord was with us.
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
Sister Electa Crane, and Sister Brewor, Br. John D. Lee, B. Young went to work on the Alters [of the Nauvoo temple]. Peas dwels here in the Hous of the Lord. We all feel to Rejoice before the Lord that he in His kind providence has permited His servents to finish the Attick. Elder W. W. Phelps come in 20 Minits past Eleven with some seders [cedars]. Br. We[e]ks and Br. [Truman] Angel ware ingaged with us preparing the rooms. ... George Miller, N. K. Whitney come in little past 12. W. Phelps, George Miller, and my self began to fix the Trees. At 1 Oclock the rooms ware cleard of all but those of the Holly Order, so that set things in order fore the Sabath ... Returned back to the Temple, put up the Looking glasses, and Maps and potrats. As William W. Majors [an English artist] brought som up from his chop [shop] to Adorn our room. The trees set in order in the garden. Sister Elzebeth Ann Whitney come in and sode [sewed] on the fringe, going over the Top of the canvas running threw
the room crost from North to South. G. A. Smith and Amasa Lyman come in three in the after [noon], Sister Clarisa and Emily Cutler mad[e] a Coten [cotten] Veil going before the Linnen Veil. Jullia Durphy assisted in making the Veil Linnen, Joseph L. Heywood come in to our upper room as the sun was setting. L. Wodworth put up the clock on west end of the East room.
Sister Sophia Lyon[s], Brought me in a fine rocken chare [rocking chair] and a comforter. She has also brought in pictures, and Evergreens R. Cutler got over the River 369.25, three hunred and sixty nine dollars and twenty five cents. The cours [coarse] Veil was put up this Eve by B. Young, R. Cahoon.
Of the Twelve Present, President B. Young, H. C. Kimball, G. A. Smith, A. Limon, J. Tailor, High Preas A. Cutler, R. Cahoon, I. Morly, John Smith, W. W. Phelps, N. K. Whitney, G. Miller, Wm. Claton, L. Woodworth, Joseph Kingsbury, O. Spencer. We clothed, and praid all to gether. Twelve and High Preas. W. W. Phelps being Mouth, the Lord was with us.
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
185 years ago today - Dec 6, 1840
[Wilford Woodruff]
An independant Minister invited me home with him to take tea. I accepted the Invitation & had a good time. I preached the gospel to him. He received my testimony & offered me his Chappel that would hold 800 & he thought he should be Baptized & would try to get his society to Do the Same.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
An independant Minister invited me home with him to take tea. I accepted the Invitation & had a good time. I preached the gospel to him. He received my testimony & offered me his Chappel that would hold 800 & he thought he should be Baptized & would try to get his society to Do the Same.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
190 years ago today - Dec 6, 1835
[Joseph Smith]
Br[other] Draper insisted on leaving the meeting some 2 or 3 weeks since before communion and would not be prevailed upon to tarry a few moments although we invited him to do so as we did not wish to have the house thrown into confusion. He observed that he would not if we excluded him from the Church. To day he attempted to make a confession, but it was not satisfactory to me. I was constrained by the Spirit to deliver him over to the buf[f]etings of Satan untill he should humble himself and repent of his sins and make satisfactory confession before the Church.
[Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1835-36, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]
Br[other] Draper insisted on leaving the meeting some 2 or 3 weeks since before communion and would not be prevailed upon to tarry a few moments although we invited him to do so as we did not wish to have the house thrown into confusion. He observed that he would not if we excluded him from the Church. To day he attempted to make a confession, but it was not satisfactory to me. I was constrained by the Spirit to deliver him over to the buf[f]etings of Satan untill he should humble himself and repent of his sins and make satisfactory confession before the Church.
[Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1835-36, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]
35 years ago today - Dec 5, 1990
Leftist guerrillas bomb four LDS chapels in Chile to protest the arrival of U.S. president George Bush the next day. Later they order the congregation to leave the LDS chapel in Santiago, burn it to the ground, and scatter pamphlets condemning the U.S. role in the Persian Gulf War.
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
75 years ago today - Dec 5, 1950
[David O. McKay]
I met pres. Parley A. Arave of the Blackfoot Stake who wanted to know whether he should take steps to have the woman who is secretary of the Draft Board at Bingham County, Idaho removed from her office. She has assumed authority which is not hers, and sent a letter to one of our missionaries demanding that he come home signing her name as a member of the Board. She is implying and charging that the Mormons are draft evaders. Pres. Arave said they have a petition signed by several hundred persons asking that she be ousted from her position.
I told Pres. Arave to go ahead. I so reported to President Clark who approved it.
[David O. McKay Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
I met pres. Parley A. Arave of the Blackfoot Stake who wanted to know whether he should take steps to have the woman who is secretary of the Draft Board at Bingham County, Idaho removed from her office. She has assumed authority which is not hers, and sent a letter to one of our missionaries demanding that he come home signing her name as a member of the Board. She is implying and charging that the Mormons are draft evaders. Pres. Arave said they have a petition signed by several hundred persons asking that she be ousted from her position.
I told Pres. Arave to go ahead. I so reported to President Clark who approved it.
[David O. McKay Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1910-1951, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah 2010]
80 years ago today - Dec 5, 1945
[Marion G. Romney]
From 5:00 to 6:30, was in a conference with President Clark, Harold B. Lee, Joseph L. Wirthlin, Joseph Anderson, in regard to shipping foodstuffs to Europe in bulk. The Catholic people are about to start a radio campaign for donations of canned goods to be shipped to Europe. This is going to be followed by some of the Protestant churches. We think we ought to move forward with our shipments if possible.
[The Diaries of J. Reuben Clark, 1933-1961, Abridged, Digital Edition, Salt Lake City, Utah, 2015, Appendix 2, The Diaries of Marion G. Romney, 1941-1961, Abridged]
From 5:00 to 6:30, was in a conference with President Clark, Harold B. Lee, Joseph L. Wirthlin, Joseph Anderson, in regard to shipping foodstuffs to Europe in bulk. The Catholic people are about to start a radio campaign for donations of canned goods to be shipped to Europe. This is going to be followed by some of the Protestant churches. We think we ought to move forward with our shipments if possible.
[The Diaries of J. Reuben Clark, 1933-1961, Abridged, Digital Edition, Salt Lake City, Utah, 2015, Appendix 2, The Diaries of Marion G. Romney, 1941-1961, Abridged]
125 years ago today - Wednesday, Dec 5, 1900
[Rudger Clawson]
.... The following is a copy of the article written by myself:
Standing upon the threshold of the twentieth century and glancing back along the hundred years that are gone, one is struck by the mighty changes that have been wrought among men. It has indeed been an era of progress and advancement—in the arts, in science, and in literature. The world has been startled from time to time by the creations of inventive genius. The railroad, the telegraph, and the telephone bring the children of men into close communion, and by the adoption of modern appliances life is made comparatively easy and the poor man of today has come into the enjoyment of comforts that were unknown even to potentates and rulers of other centuries. Electricity—that subtle, invisible, and all-powerful force—has been harnessed up and made to do service in a thousand different ways. Through its agency the world is flooded with light, and by its inherent power men are transported from place to place with an ease, rapidity, and comfort that would bewilder and
astonish our forefathers....
[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]
.... The following is a copy of the article written by myself:
Standing upon the threshold of the twentieth century and glancing back along the hundred years that are gone, one is struck by the mighty changes that have been wrought among men. It has indeed been an era of progress and advancement—in the arts, in science, and in literature. The world has been startled from time to time by the creations of inventive genius. The railroad, the telegraph, and the telephone bring the children of men into close communion, and by the adoption of modern appliances life is made comparatively easy and the poor man of today has come into the enjoyment of comforts that were unknown even to potentates and rulers of other centuries. Electricity—that subtle, invisible, and all-powerful force—has been harnessed up and made to do service in a thousand different ways. Through its agency the world is flooded with light, and by its inherent power men are transported from place to place with an ease, rapidity, and comfort that would bewilder and
astonish our forefathers....
[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]
125 years ago today - Dec 5, 1900 (Wednesday)
The Inter-Denominational Council of Women in New York passed a resolution, urging Congress to pass a constitutional amendment prohibiting polygamy and disfranchising all polygamists.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
180 years ago today - Dec 5, 1845
[Heber C. Kimball]
From thence to the Temple being the first on the ground being 10 in the morning... commenced work putting up canvase adorning alters and so forth.
At half past 11 My wife, Sister Whitney, Hellen my Daughter, Sarah Ann Kingsbury, Come in fore the purpus of Heming the Veil. My son Wm. and Heber P.. come with them. W. W. Phelps come in with some seders trees. They, the Sisters Vialte, My wife, Elizebeth Ann Whiteny, N. K. wife, Sarah Ann, His Dauther, and Hellen Mar My Daugther commenced going at 12 Oclcok at the Ringing of the Temple Bell. G. A. Smith just come in said Ezekel Roberts went to the River whare thare was a hole cut in the Ice whare he found a small child fastened by a small string. Misry be on the dower [doer]. Joseph Young and David Candland come in, Orson Spencer come in.... It is sunset the canvas is all put up and the Alters mostly done. Thare is three of them. The big Hall is converted in to six sepret [separate] rooms for the convienience of the Holy Preasthood, two Large ones and fore small and a Hall pasing through betwen the small ones, pasing from the west done [down] through the Center, and
dores in to each room. Josep Fielding has just come in fore the first time, he is one of the Holy Order. Its now dark and the Brethren are coming in fore prair and council... Elders B. Young is work on the alters. On Sunday Morning at 9 Oclock all of the Holy Order will assemble fore prair and council. Our wives will come and pertack [partake] with us. The Sacrament will be administer and spend the day in those thing that the Spirrit shall teach.. This was the advise of President B. Young–/this gave/ great joy to our wimmen. To morrow will finish our rooms fore buisness. ... Clohed [clothed ourselves] and praid, O. Spencer being mouth. Then [un]Clothed and went home about 7. When we left the room we asked the Lord to bless Isreal and hold us in safty till we could give some of His faithfull Elders thare Endowment, and to liberate Cherriff [Sherrif] Backenstos [being tried for the murder of Frank Worrell, one of the anti-Mormon vigilantes, and], Theradore Turly from thare bonds.
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
From thence to the Temple being the first on the ground being 10 in the morning... commenced work putting up canvase adorning alters and so forth.
At half past 11 My wife, Sister Whitney, Hellen my Daughter, Sarah Ann Kingsbury, Come in fore the purpus of Heming the Veil. My son Wm. and Heber P.. come with them. W. W. Phelps come in with some seders trees. They, the Sisters Vialte, My wife, Elizebeth Ann Whiteny, N. K. wife, Sarah Ann, His Dauther, and Hellen Mar My Daugther commenced going at 12 Oclcok at the Ringing of the Temple Bell. G. A. Smith just come in said Ezekel Roberts went to the River whare thare was a hole cut in the Ice whare he found a small child fastened by a small string. Misry be on the dower [doer]. Joseph Young and David Candland come in, Orson Spencer come in.... It is sunset the canvas is all put up and the Alters mostly done. Thare is three of them. The big Hall is converted in to six sepret [separate] rooms for the convienience of the Holy Preasthood, two Large ones and fore small and a Hall pasing through betwen the small ones, pasing from the west done [down] through the Center, and
dores in to each room. Josep Fielding has just come in fore the first time, he is one of the Holy Order. Its now dark and the Brethren are coming in fore prair and council... Elders B. Young is work on the alters. On Sunday Morning at 9 Oclock all of the Holy Order will assemble fore prair and council. Our wives will come and pertack [partake] with us. The Sacrament will be administer and spend the day in those thing that the Spirrit shall teach.. This was the advise of President B. Young–/this gave/ great joy to our wimmen. To morrow will finish our rooms fore buisness. ... Clohed [clothed ourselves] and praid, O. Spencer being mouth. Then [un]Clothed and went home about 7. When we left the room we asked the Lord to bless Isreal and hold us in safty till we could give some of His faithfull Elders thare Endowment, and to liberate Cherriff [Sherrif] Backenstos [being tried for the murder of Frank Worrell, one of the anti-Mormon vigilantes, and], Theradore Turly from thare bonds.
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
180 years ago today - Dec 5, 1845
William Smith: Dictated revelation 5 Dec. 1845 rejecting Brigham Young
[Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 6, Biographical Sketches of General Officers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]
[Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 6, Biographical Sketches of General Officers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]
195 years ago today - 1830 Dec 5
Joseph Smith Sr. released from jail, Samuel helps his parents relocate to -The Kingdom, an unincorporated village along the Seneca River between Waterloo and Seneca Falls
[https://docs.google.com/document/d/10ttN3vOzf2UcVhruCrvDf9pF27T0o0PP0Xj1X98tKBc/edit?fbclid=IwAR3HXLgL-X-M_c5LT2W-_F7AYqsqqaQ0yIhfNuyeFsX85irSPuEO6_Q993A]
[https://docs.google.com/document/d/10ttN3vOzf2UcVhruCrvDf9pF27T0o0PP0Xj1X98tKBc/edit?fbclid=IwAR3HXLgL-X-M_c5LT2W-_F7AYqsqqaQ0yIhfNuyeFsX85irSPuEO6_Q993A]
140 years ago today - Dec 4, 1885
To satisfy a feeling which has been on my mind for some time, I submit the following: My Son George Q. who died in this City when he was 18 years and 21 days old, was very faithful to us as a son. ... When on his death bed I asked him if there was anything that he would like me to do for him, he said "I would like you to have some wives sealed to me." According to this request I have had two girls who died in the Church sealed to him. Two others, apreciating his worth[,] have expressed a desire to have their daughters sealed to him, which will be done. These tokens of respect fills our hearts with joy feeling as we do, that our dear boy was worthy. Now the question is, do you think he was old enough to receive his 2d Anointing? Bro[ther] McAllister it is not my desire to seek blessings for my sons that they are not entitled to. But I had great hopes in this son, for I fully appreciated his worth, and would like to see that every blessing was put in his reach, to which his
faithfulness entitled him. You as the Pres[iden]t of the St George Stake knew him, hence I submit the question to you.
[David H. Cannon to John D. T. McAllister in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
faithfulness entitled him. You as the Pres[iden]t of the St George Stake knew him, hence I submit the question to you.
[David H. Cannon to John D. T. McAllister in Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
165 years ago today - Dec 4, 1860
In the evening the President [Brigham Young] had some conversation about Br. H. C. Kimball's sons and remarked that himself & Br[other] Heber, would be able to draw their children to them again, even if they should turn away. All they had to do was to do right themselves. -- Salt Lake City
[Brigham Young Office Journals, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
[Brigham Young Office Journals, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
180 years ago today - Dec 4, 1845
[Heber C. Kimball]
P. Pratt, O. Hide ingaged in putting up canvas and other things to prepare our room [in the Nauvoo temple]. W. W. Phelps brought in some seders [cedar] trees to adorn our garden [room in the temple]. About sun set Bishop N. K.. come in with the [temple] Vail, the old one and new one. The holes ware cut by B. Young and others assisted. ...
Two nits that are past the Twelve have praid by them selves, and the High Preas by them selvs. This order will continue fore the present. .../ We Clothed our selvs half past 7. The Twelve and High Preas come to gether and sung two hymns, being 19 present. Br. B. Young praid—we all knelt before the Lord then offered up the sign. Isack Morly was mouth. Had a good time..
This day a Large Looking Glass fell in the room of the First Pridency of the Seventies and Brock all to preaces. Some thought is a token of the Seventies being scatterd in all the world. Praid again. P. P. Pratt being mouth.. We had a glorious time. The Brethren felt to prais the Lord for His goodness and great mercy, that we had got a place to worship and begin to give Endewments [endowments]. ...
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
P. Pratt, O. Hide ingaged in putting up canvas and other things to prepare our room [in the Nauvoo temple]. W. W. Phelps brought in some seders [cedar] trees to adorn our garden [room in the temple]. About sun set Bishop N. K.. come in with the [temple] Vail, the old one and new one. The holes ware cut by B. Young and others assisted. ...
Two nits that are past the Twelve have praid by them selves, and the High Preas by them selvs. This order will continue fore the present. .../ We Clothed our selvs half past 7. The Twelve and High Preas come to gether and sung two hymns, being 19 present. Br. B. Young praid—we all knelt before the Lord then offered up the sign. Isack Morly was mouth. Had a good time..
This day a Large Looking Glass fell in the room of the First Pridency of the Seventies and Brock all to preaces. Some thought is a token of the Seventies being scatterd in all the world. Praid again. P. P. Pratt being mouth.. We had a glorious time. The Brethren felt to prais the Lord for His goodness and great mercy, that we had got a place to worship and begin to give Endewments [endowments]. ...
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
195 years ago today - Circa Dec 4, 1830
Joseph Sr. is released from Canandaigua jail after thirty days.
[Vogel, Dan, Early Mormon Documents, Appendix B: Chronology, 1771-1831, http://amzn.to/T5nY8w]
[Vogel, Dan, Early Mormon Documents, Appendix B: Chronology, 1771-1831, http://amzn.to/T5nY8w]
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