Trial watchers learn 9th District Court of Appeals Judge Vaughn Walker, assigned to the case randomly, is himself gay.
[Prop 8 Timeline, NBC San Diego, http://www.nbcsandiego.com/news/politics/Proposition-8-Timeline-History-California--138796454.html]
Today In Mormon History-fb
Several curious tidbits that happened on this day in Mormon History
80 years ago today - Feb 9, 1945
[First Presidency Letter]
Referring to your letter of December 21, this will advise you that there has been no change in the ruling of the Church regarding the bestowal of the Priesthood upon persons having colored blood. As to the ultimate fate of the colored people, the Prophet Joseph Smith is quoted as having said on one occasion:
'That the seed of Cain could not receive the Priesthood, nor act in any of the offices of the
Priesthood until the seed of Abel should come forward and take precedence over Cain's
offspring.'
[First Presidency, Letter to Graham H. Doxey, 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]
Referring to your letter of December 21, this will advise you that there has been no change in the ruling of the Church regarding the bestowal of the Priesthood upon persons having colored blood. As to the ultimate fate of the colored people, the Prophet Joseph Smith is quoted as having said on one occasion:
'That the seed of Cain could not receive the Priesthood, nor act in any of the offices of the
Priesthood until the seed of Abel should come forward and take precedence over Cain's
offspring.'
[First Presidency, Letter to Graham H. Doxey, 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 - Feb 9, 1895
[Francis M. Lyman]
Bro[ther] P. A. Droubay called upon me and I gave him verbal answer to his letter asking if any one could now take a plural wife. I told no: It could not be done. any one could note take a plural wife. I told no, It could not be done.
[Excerpts of Apostle Francis M. Lyman Diaries, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
Bro[ther] P. A. Droubay called upon me and I gave him verbal answer to his letter asking if any one could now take a plural wife. I told no: It could not be done. any one could note take a plural wife. I told no, It could not be done.
[Excerpts of Apostle Francis M. Lyman Diaries, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
140 years ago today - Feb 9, 1885
[Wilford Woodruff]
We received a message this morning saying that Brother Teasdale was indicted By the Grand Jury on Poligamy and Cohabitation. So we like scores of others must make for the City of refuge. There is hardly a leading Man in Utah that Can Walk the Streets of Salt Lake in safety. Marshals are after him because He had obeyed the Patriarchal Law of Marriage.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
We received a message this morning saying that Brother Teasdale was indicted By the Grand Jury on Poligamy and Cohabitation. So we like scores of others must make for the City of refuge. There is hardly a leading Man in Utah that Can Walk the Streets of Salt Lake in safety. Marshals are after him because He had obeyed the Patriarchal Law of Marriage.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
140 years ago today - Feb 9, 1885 (Monday)
A number of Saints going into exile because of their family relations [plural marriages], left Snowflake, Ariz., for Mexico. On their arrival at Luna Valley, New Mexico, on the 15th, they were organized into a traveling company, with E.A. Noble as captain. The company had increased to about seventy souls.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
155 years ago today - Feb 9, 1870
Formation of the anti-Mormon "Liberal Party" which opposes the LDS church's "People's Party" at every Utah election for more than twenty years. Presiding Bishopric counselor Jesse C. Little helps lead a group of Mormons who disrupt its first meeting.
[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 )]]
155 years ago today - Feb 9, 1870
Formation of anti-Mormon "Liberal Party" which opposes LDS church's "People's Party" at every Utah election for more than twenty years. Presiding Bishopric counselor Jesse C. Little helps lead group of Mormons who disrupt first meeting.
225 years ago today - Feb 9, 1800
Hyrum Smith is born to Joseph Smith Sr. and Lucy Mack Smith in Tunbridge, Vermont.
[Jeffrey S. O'Driscoll, Hyrum Smith: A Life of Integrity, A Brief Chronology of the Life of Hyrum Smith: 1800-1844]
[Jeffrey S. O'Driscoll, Hyrum Smith: A Life of Integrity, A Brief Chronology of the Life of Hyrum Smith: 1800-1844]
80 years ago today - Feb 8, 1945
Urgent call for Spanish-speaking missionaries-- Church Archives, Salt Lake City, Utah.
(An urgent call for Spanish-speaking missionaries.) {1945-February 8-Original circular letter, L.D.S.}
[Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
(An urgent call for Spanish-speaking missionaries.) {1945-February 8-Original circular letter, L.D.S.}
[Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
110 years ago today - Feb 8, 1915
The request of the party referred to ... cannot be granted, that is, his name cannot be stricken from the Church records as a means of severing his connection with the Church. No Church member can be severed from the Church without trial and ex-communication. Special Teachers therefore might consistently be appointed to labor with the party ... and if he persists in his desire to be severed from the Church a formal charge of apostasy might be made against him by and by ...
[First Presidency, Letter to Heber Q. Hale, 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]
[First Presidency, Letter to Heber Q. Hale, 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 - Feb 8, 1910
[Apostle Heber J. Grant]
[At meeting in Temple of General Authorities and Stake Presidencies] A question was asked if it was proper for a man who had two wives to marry another in case his legal wife were to die. Prest Smith said it would not be right. He then spoke strongly that there must not be any more plural marriages performed. Urged all to aid in keeping our pledges with the Nation that there should be no more plural marriages. Was very strong.
[Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[At meeting in Temple of General Authorities and Stake Presidencies] A question was asked if it was proper for a man who had two wives to marry another in case his legal wife were to die. Prest Smith said it would not be right. He then spoke strongly that there must not be any more plural marriages performed. Urged all to aid in keeping our pledges with the Nation that there should be no more plural marriages. Was very strong.
[Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
125 years ago today - Feb 8, 1900; Thursday
In the afternoon George P. Frisby and George D. Cole of "The Church of Christ," commonly known as "Hedrickites," called on the Presidency. They were accompanied by Elder Charles W. Penrose. these gentlemen stated that they had come from Independence, Missouri, for the purpose of ascertaining if it is not possible for a delegation of our Church, a delegation of the "Reorganite" church and a a delegation of their own organization could not meet together for the purpose of trying to harmonize their views on doctrine with a view to our coming together and uniting into one body. This, in brief, was stated as their object in coming here, but their conversation with the Presidency lasted fully an hour, during which time these men manifested a very good spirit. They freely admitted that they were but custodians of the Temple ground in Independence, and they said the Spirit seemed to manifest to them as a body that they ought to take some steps towards placing this ground so it can be used
for the purpose indicated in the revelations. President [Lorenzo] Snow appointed a meeting for tomorrow in the office for two thirty, at which President [George Q.] Cannon and whoever of the Apostles in reach may be present.
[First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
for the purpose indicated in the revelations. President [Lorenzo] Snow appointed a meeting for tomorrow in the office for two thirty, at which President [George Q.] Cannon and whoever of the Apostles in reach may be present.
[First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
135 years ago today - Saturday, Feb 8, 1890
[John Henry Smith]
Salt Lake City
There are many strange faces in this City and much excitement over election matters. President W. Woodruff requested the Apostles present in the City to be at the Tabernacle tomorrow.
[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
There are many strange faces in this City and much excitement over election matters. President W. Woodruff requested the Apostles present in the City to be at the Tabernacle tomorrow.
[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 - Feb 8, 1890 (Saturday)
The third and last parade of the [church's] People's Party in Salt Lake City, took place.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
135 years ago today - Feb 8, 1890
Geo[rge]. Q. Cannon telegraphed: 'Should not Saturday's Deseret News & Salt Lake Herald publish John T. Caine's return as an example to all voters? Maud & Tobias telegraph they go to Salt Lake City next week. Ask earliest day I can meet them. They say Hyde & Richard Taylor are determined to make trouble & my presence would help matter greatly. What shall I answer them?' Answer: 'Leave you return here to your judgment. If you decide to do so it will be entirely agreeable to Pres[ident] [Wilford] Woodruff. James Jack.' Pres[iden]ts Woodruff & [Joseph F.] Smith witnessed the parade of the People's Party.
[First Presidency Office Journal, 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]
[First Presidency Office Journal, 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]
140 years ago today - Feb 8, 1885
[Wilford Woodruff]
We held a priesthood Meeting in the Evening to prepare the way for installing Isaiah Cox as Bishop and we had a stormy time in the midst of a great variety of spirits a great deal of division & but little union. I told the people to poor out all they had against the Bishop & nearly all the Hous spoke & when they got through I Called a vote and all voted for the Bishop but 2.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
We held a priesthood Meeting in the Evening to prepare the way for installing Isaiah Cox as Bishop and we had a stormy time in the midst of a great variety of spirits a great deal of division & but little union. I told the people to poor out all they had against the Bishop & nearly all the Hous spoke & when they got through I Called a vote and all voted for the Bishop but 2.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
175 years ago today - Feb 8, 1850 (Friday)
On this and the following day a battle was fought between the "minute men" and about seventy Indian warriors under Big Elk, close to Utah Fort (now Provo), in which several were killed and wounded on both sides. The Indians subsequently retreated to the mountains.
[Brigham Young had ordered the Indians be removed from Utah Valley by force]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Brigham Young had ordered the Indians be removed from Utah Valley by force]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
190 years ago today - Feb 08, 1835
Joseph Smith tells Brigham and Joseph Young of a vision in which he saw those who had passed away in Zion's Camp: "If I get a mansion as bright as theirs, I ask no more."
[History of the Church, 2:180-81]
[History of the Church, 2:180-81]
190 years ago today - Feb 8, 1835
Brigham and Joseph Young sing for Joseph. "The Spirit of the Lord was poured out upon us, and I told them I wanted to see those brethren together, who went up to Zion in the camp, the previous summer, for I had a blessing for them."
[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]
40 years ago today - Feb 7, 1985
A First Presidency letter to all presiding officers "on the subject of rape," includes the following: "Persons who consciously invite sexual advances also have a share of responsibility for the behavior that follows. But persons who are truly forced into sexual relations are victims and are not guilty of any sexual sin... The extent of resistance required to establish that the victim has not willingly consented is left to the judgment of the victim, who is best acquainted with the total circumstances and their effect on his or her will."
[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 )]]
40 years ago today - Feb 7, 1985
First Presidency letter to all presiding officers "on the subject of rape," includes following: "Persons who consciously invite sexual advances also have a share of responsibility for the behavior that follows. But persons who are truly forced into sexual relations are victims and are not guilty of any sexual sin-.The extent of resistance required to establish that the victim has not willingly consented is left to the judgment of the victim, who is best acquainted with the total circumstances and their effect on his or her will."
45 years ago today - Feb 7,1980
Dallin H. Oaks, president of BYU, is chair of board for television's Public Broadcasting Service. He continues as PBS Chair after his appointment to Twelve in Apr 1984.
[Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power, Appendix 5, Selected Chronology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1848-1996, http://amzn.to/extensions-power]
[Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power, Appendix 5, Selected Chronology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1848-1996, http://amzn.to/extensions-power]
90 years ago today - Feb 7, 1935
.... President Grant was ordained a Apostle by Elder George Q. Cannon, who was ordained by President Brigham Young, and Brigham Young was ordained by one of the Three Witnesses to the Book of Mormon. We do not have any record as to which one of the Three Witnesses was voice in ordaining Brigham Young, but inasmuch as these three me were instructed by direct revelation from the Lord to choose the Twelve Apostles, and they assisted in their ordination, in connection with the First Presidency, the line of authority back to the Prophet Joseph Smith is complete.
[Joseph Anderson, Letter to Marian E. Taylor, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
[Joseph Anderson, Letter to Marian E. Taylor, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
120 years ago today - Feb 7, 1905
Bro[ther]s. Lorenzo Stohl and John Stringham, connected with the Heber J. Grant Company office, called and met the Presidency about establishing a life insurance company. After due consideration, President [Joseph F.] Smith gave his consent to become president of the company, should it be organized.
[Journal History, 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]
[Journal History, 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 - Feb 7, 1900
[Minutes of the Seventies]
[B. H. Roberts speaking:] During the summer of 1898 a number of Elder Roberts' friends urged him to become a candidate for Congress. Complying with the rule of the Church, that before accepting any nomination for political office or engaging in other business that would interfere with their work in the ministry, the brethren should obtain the consent of the authorities of the Church, the matter of Elder Roberts being released from his duties in the ministry in order to accept the aforesaid nomination, was presented to the Presidency and to the Council of the Apostles, and they unanimously approved of his being released for this purpose, whereupon Elder Roberts became a candidate before the Democratic Convention, and was nominated on the first ballot. The convention was a stormy one, and much opposition developed against Elder Roberts on the part of a number of Gentiles, who were in the convention. Indeed, it had been intimated before the convention convened that open war would be
made upon him on account of his plural family relations. At the time Elder Roberts heard of this threat, he called at the office of the Presidency of the Church, with the view of presenting the matter to the brethren and ascertaining if such a controversy should be risked. At the time Presidents Woodruff and Cannon were in California, but the matter was presented to President Joseph F. Smith, who, in substance, said that he did not think we were under the necessity of paying any attention to the threats of our enemies with relation to that subject; and stated that the same matter had been brought up in the office the day previous, when several of the Apostles were present, and they also were of that mind; and, hence, Elder Roberts continued his efforts among his political friends, and secured the nomination, as above stated.
[Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah, 2015, Appendix 1: Minutes of the Seventies, 1837-1933, Excerpts]
[B. H. Roberts speaking:] During the summer of 1898 a number of Elder Roberts' friends urged him to become a candidate for Congress. Complying with the rule of the Church, that before accepting any nomination for political office or engaging in other business that would interfere with their work in the ministry, the brethren should obtain the consent of the authorities of the Church, the matter of Elder Roberts being released from his duties in the ministry in order to accept the aforesaid nomination, was presented to the Presidency and to the Council of the Apostles, and they unanimously approved of his being released for this purpose, whereupon Elder Roberts became a candidate before the Democratic Convention, and was nominated on the first ballot. The convention was a stormy one, and much opposition developed against Elder Roberts on the part of a number of Gentiles, who were in the convention. Indeed, it had been intimated before the convention convened that open war would be
made upon him on account of his plural family relations. At the time Elder Roberts heard of this threat, he called at the office of the Presidency of the Church, with the view of presenting the matter to the brethren and ascertaining if such a controversy should be risked. At the time Presidents Woodruff and Cannon were in California, but the matter was presented to President Joseph F. Smith, who, in substance, said that he did not think we were under the necessity of paying any attention to the threats of our enemies with relation to that subject; and stated that the same matter had been brought up in the office the day previous, when several of the Apostles were present, and they also were of that mind; and, hence, Elder Roberts continued his efforts among his political friends, and secured the nomination, as above stated.
[Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, Privately Published, Salt Lake City, Utah, 2015, Appendix 1: Minutes of the Seventies, 1837-1933, Excerpts]
135 years ago today - Feb 7, 1890
Black Mormon Jane Manning James requests proxy polygamous sealing,
Dear Brother - - Please excuse me taking the Liberty of Writing to you - but be a Brotherby answering my questions - There by satisfying my mind - - First, as Brother James [her husband Isaac] has Left me 21 years - And a Coloured Brother, Brother Lewis wished me to be sealed to Him, He has been dead 35 or 36 years - can i be sealed to him - parley P Pratt or dained Him an Elder. When or how[?] can i ever be sealed to Him.
Although not named, this refers to Elder Walker Lewis, during his visit to Utah in 1851-2. She also incorrectly stated that Parley P. Pratt ordained him an elder, when it was William Smith. Perhaps Pratt baptized Lewis a Mormon and she confused the two events.
Dear Brother - - Please excuse me taking the Liberty of Writing to you - but be a Brotherby answering my questions - There by satisfying my mind - - First, as Brother James [her husband Isaac] has Left me 21 years - And a Coloured Brother, Brother Lewis wished me to be sealed to Him, He has been dead 35 or 36 years - can i be sealed to him - parley P Pratt or dained Him an Elder. When or how[?] can i ever be sealed to Him.
Although not named, this refers to Elder Walker Lewis, during his visit to Utah in 1851-2. She also incorrectly stated that Parley P. Pratt ordained him an elder, when it was William Smith. Perhaps Pratt baptized Lewis a Mormon and she confused the two events.
150 years ago today - Feb 7, 1875
Orson Pratt was teaching that only a few of those who were driven from Jackson County would return to receive their inheritances: "We need not expect, from what God has revealed, that a very great number of those who were then in the Church and who were driven, will have the privilege of returning to that land. …There will be some that will live to behold that day, and will return ... according to the promise" (see D&C 84:1-5,31,32)
[Journal of Discourses, vol. 17, p. 291-292 http://journalofdiscourses.com/17/41, as quoted in The Last Days and December 1890 2nd Coming of Jesus Christ, y George D. Speer Sr., privately circulated]
[Journal of Discourses, vol. 17, p. 291-292 http://journalofdiscourses.com/17/41, as quoted in The Last Days and December 1890 2nd Coming of Jesus Christ, y George D. Speer Sr., privately circulated]
165 years ago today - Feb 7, 1860
[Wilford Woodruff]
7 I attended the trial of several young men at the policee station for breaking up a party last [ ]. Drew Pistols threatened life and broke the peace in many ways. While hearing the testimony it was shown that while one of the party broke into the room and was in the act of striking Joseph [F.] Smith (the son of Hyram) when Samuel Smith (son of Samuel B Smith) struck the man and knocked him against the wall. This was the ownly blow given on Either side. They threatened to kill Samuel Smith. The trial was conducted at Jeter Clintons office [in] the police Station.
At the Close of the testimony Justice Clinton Called upon me to speak. I addressed them some 15 minutes in giving them a morral lesson to the young Men who were present and had Committed wrongs upon there Neighbors and at the Close The Justice Approved of the Course of Samuel Smith in not going out to fight with the rowdies when they threatened him. Be fined the boys who had raised the row five dollars Each.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
7 I attended the trial of several young men at the policee station for breaking up a party last [ ]. Drew Pistols threatened life and broke the peace in many ways. While hearing the testimony it was shown that while one of the party broke into the room and was in the act of striking Joseph [F.] Smith (the son of Hyram) when Samuel Smith (son of Samuel B Smith) struck the man and knocked him against the wall. This was the ownly blow given on Either side. They threatened to kill Samuel Smith. The trial was conducted at Jeter Clintons office [in] the police Station.
At the Close of the testimony Justice Clinton Called upon me to speak. I addressed them some 15 minutes in giving them a morral lesson to the young Men who were present and had Committed wrongs upon there Neighbors and at the Close The Justice Approved of the Course of Samuel Smith in not going out to fight with the rowdies when they threatened him. Be fined the boys who had raised the row five dollars Each.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
165 years ago today - Feb 7, 1860
This afternoon a grand party came off at the Social Hall [grand reopening]. commencing at 4 p. m[.] Prest B. Young and councillors & the Twelve Gov Cumming and Col Stambaugh & Staff were present[.] I and my wife attended[.] Tickets $10supper at Eleven p. m. Dancing till 5 a. m. fine time this and is the Grand Ball of the "Season"
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
185 years ago today - Feb 7, 1840
In England British Mission President Joseph Fielding and John Taylor take turns blessing each other. John Taylor "afterwards gave an address in tongues and interpreted."
185 years ago today - Feb 7, 1840. Friday.
Brother [John] Taylor gave me [William Clayton] his blessing. He blessed me with wisdom and utterance so that I should be a wonder to myself and others. By the spirit. Ministering angels. He blessed Brother [Joseph] Fielding and then Brother F. blessed Brother Taylor. Brother T[aylor] afterwards give an address in tongues and interpreted.
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]
70 years ago today - Feb 6, 1955
The Bensons invited Dwight and Mamie Eisenhower to join them at the Virginia ranch of J. Willard Marriott, a successful hotelier and Washington DC Stake president. The Bensons treated their guests to a Mormon-oriented evening of singing, poem recitations, and humorous skits.
[Gary James Bergera, "Weak-Kneed Republicans and Socialist Democrats": Ezra Taft Benson as U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, 1953-61, Part 2, Dialogue : A Journal of Mormon Thought, (Winter 2008, vol 41)]
[Gary James Bergera, "Weak-Kneed Republicans and Socialist Democrats": Ezra Taft Benson as U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, 1953-61, Part 2, Dialogue : A Journal of Mormon Thought, (Winter 2008, vol 41)]
75 years ago today - Feb 6, 1950
[David O. McKay]
4:30 p.m. President Casper H. Parker of Hillsdale Stake called at the office. We discussed the old problem of removal of the Liquor Store at 17th East and 17th South. It seems that W. W. Seegmiller, a member of the Liquor Commission, is opposing the removal of this store, even though Governor J. Bracken Lee has given his promise that it should be moved.
While Pre. Parker was in my office, I telephoned to Governor Lee. He said there is no change in his attitude toward the removal of that store: that he has been trying to work it out, but that his trouble has been with two of the commissioners who do not want it moved, and that W. W. Seegmiller is one of them. The Governor then asked, 'What's the matter with Seegmiller? I said that I would call him into the office again, and ask him. The Governor, answered, 'I wish you would, because I told Seegmiller frankly that the only man who could release me from my promise is President McKay.' I answered that I am obligated to Pres. Parker and the people in that district; that we had promised them this store would be removed.
[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]
4:30 p.m. President Casper H. Parker of Hillsdale Stake called at the office. We discussed the old problem of removal of the Liquor Store at 17th East and 17th South. It seems that W. W. Seegmiller, a member of the Liquor Commission, is opposing the removal of this store, even though Governor J. Bracken Lee has given his promise that it should be moved.
While Pre. Parker was in my office, I telephoned to Governor Lee. He said there is no change in his attitude toward the removal of that store: that he has been trying to work it out, but that his trouble has been with two of the commissioners who do not want it moved, and that W. W. Seegmiller is one of them. The Governor then asked, 'What's the matter with Seegmiller? I said that I would call him into the office again, and ask him. The Governor, answered, 'I wish you would, because I told Seegmiller frankly that the only man who could release me from my promise is President McKay.' I answered that I am obligated to Pres. Parker and the people in that district; that we had promised them this store would be removed.
[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]
90 years ago today - Feb 6, 1935
[Heber J. Grant]
In your letter of February 4 you ask 'When Elder David O. McKay was chosen to fill the vacancy in the Presidency did he, or did he not lose his right to seniority in the Council of the Twelve?'
The answer is no. When a member of the Council of the Twelve is called into the quorum of the First Presidency he retains his place of seniority in the Council of the Twelve.
[Heber J. Grant and David O. McKay, Letter to Jesse W. Richins, 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]
In your letter of February 4 you ask 'When Elder David O. McKay was chosen to fill the vacancy in the Presidency did he, or did he not lose his right to seniority in the Council of the Twelve?'
The answer is no. When a member of the Council of the Twelve is called into the quorum of the First Presidency he retains his place of seniority in the Council of the Twelve.
[Heber J. Grant and David O. McKay, Letter to Jesse W. Richins, 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 - Feb 6, 1900
Joseph F. Smith writes to Anthony W. Ivins concerning a post-manifesto plural marriage: "the less I know about some things the better for me at least and perhaps for others concerned.... my motto is and always has been to protect to the uttermost in my power the rights and the secrets, if secrets there may be, of my friends and the friends of the kingdom of God." He adds that he believes in "all the revelations" of the Prophet Joseph Smith, a phrase that becomes a code for polygamy after the Manifesto.
170 years ago today - Feb 6, 1855 (Tuesday)
A grand festival, lasting two days, was commenced in G.S.L. City, in honor of the Mormon Battalion.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
180 years ago today - Feb 6, 1845, Thursday
[William Clayton]
Thursday 6th. ... Evening clothed [in temple robes] to offer prayers for Wm. H. & Vilate R. who are both very sick.
[Fillerup, Robert C., compiler; William Clayton Nauvoo Diaries and Personal Writings, A chronological compilation of the personal writings of William Clayton while he was a resident of Nauvoo, Illinois. http://www.boap.org/LDS/Early-Saints/clayton-diaries]
Thursday 6th. ... Evening clothed [in temple robes] to offer prayers for Wm. H. & Vilate R. who are both very sick.
[Fillerup, Robert C., compiler; William Clayton Nauvoo Diaries and Personal Writings, A chronological compilation of the personal writings of William Clayton while he was a resident of Nauvoo, Illinois. http://www.boap.org/LDS/Early-Saints/clayton-diaries]
185 years ago today - c. (Thr) Feb 6, 1840
Smith reportedly had a second interview with Martin Van Buren, who supposedly told the Mormons: "Gentlemen, your cause is just, but I can do nothing for you;" and "If I take up for you I shall lose the vote of Missouri."
[Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]
[Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]
190 years ago today - Feb 6, 1835
W. W. Phelps says Ham married "a black wife",
[http://www.xtimeline.com/timeline/Chronology-Pertaining-to-Blacks-and-the-LDS-Church]
[http://www.xtimeline.com/timeline/Chronology-Pertaining-to-Blacks-and-the-LDS-Church]
45 years ago today - Feb 5, 1980-Tuesday
[Leonard Arrington]
.... Ed Ashment and Melodie Charles [Church Translation Department] informed us what we've already heard, that it is impossible to quote from The Mormon Experience and The Story of the Latter-day Saints in Church publications. That is because neither was cleared through Church Correlation.
[Confessions of a Mormon historian : the diaries of Leonard J. Arrington, 1971-1997, Gary James Bergera, editor, Signature Books, 2018]
.... Ed Ashment and Melodie Charles [Church Translation Department] informed us what we've already heard, that it is impossible to quote from The Mormon Experience and The Story of the Latter-day Saints in Church publications. That is because neither was cleared through Church Correlation.
[Confessions of a Mormon historian : the diaries of Leonard J. Arrington, 1971-1997, Gary James Bergera, editor, Signature Books, 2018]
55 years ago today - Feb 5, 1970
A BYU basketball game is disrupted by a protest against the LDS church's policy of denying priesthood ordination to African-Americans. While 150 Colorado State University student demonstrators scuffle with campus police and twenty Fort Collins policemen during half-time, someone throws a Molotov cocktail on the playing floor. When the game resumes, spectators throw raw eggs at BYU's players.
[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 )]]
55 years ago today - Feb 5, 1970
BYU basketball game is disrupted by protest against LDS church's policy of denying priesthood ordination to African-Americans. While 150 Colorado State University student demonstrators scuffle with campus police and twenty Fort Collins policemen during half-time, someone throws Molotov cocktail on playing floor. When game resumes spectators throw raw eggs at BYU's players.
70 years ago today - Feb 5, 1955
The first headline reference in the Church News since 1931 to a living LDS president as the "Prophet." Apparently due to Counselor J. Reuben Clark's criticism of the adulation implied by using this title for the living president, "the Prophet" is associated with the founder Joseph Smith in the Church News headlines until after Clark's death in 1961.
[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 )]]
70 years ago today - Feb 5, 1955
First headline reference in CHURCH NEWS since 1931 to living LDS president as the "Prophet." Apparently due to Counselor J. Reuben Clark's criticism of adulation implied by using this title for the living president, "the Prophet" is associated with founder Joseph Smith in Church News headlines until after Clark's Death in 1961.
145 years ago today - Feb 5, 1880
[Wilford Woodruff]
I wrote a letter to Presidet John Taylor and the Twelve Apostles. I gave them an Account of the Revelation the Lord gave unto me in the shepherds tent in the wilderness and I sent them a Copy of the same.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
I wrote a letter to Presidet John Taylor and the Twelve Apostles. I gave them an Account of the Revelation the Lord gave unto me in the shepherds tent in the wilderness and I sent them a Copy of the same.
[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 - Feb 5, 1855
[Chief Walker]
News has arrived that Walker the Great Utah Chief died on the 29 Jan at the Meadow Creek some six miles beyond Fillmore, and that the Utahs had killed 2 piede squaws & 2 piede children and some 12 or 15 of Walkers Horses and intended to kill 2 Pauvans & 3 mormons. This is done on the death of a great chief as a sacrifice I understand.
[Walker had been baptized a member of the church]
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
News has arrived that Walker the Great Utah Chief died on the 29 Jan at the Meadow Creek some six miles beyond Fillmore, and that the Utahs had killed 2 piede squaws & 2 piede children and some 12 or 15 of Walkers Horses and intended to kill 2 Pauvans & 3 mormons. This is done on the death of a great chief as a sacrifice I understand.
[Walker had been baptized a member of the church]
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
185 years ago today - Feb 5, 1840
[Wilford Woodruff]
Read two papers. Found much talk about the Queen Victoria wedding. It had taken more than 200 persons 9 months to make her Bridal Dress, & all the weavers 6 weeks to make her veil.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
Read two papers. Found much talk about the Queen Victoria wedding. It had taken more than 200 persons 9 months to make her Bridal Dress, & all the weavers 6 weeks to make her veil.
[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 - Feb 5, 1840
[Description of Joseph Smith]
My Dear Mary:--I went last evening to hear "Joe Smith," the celebrated Mormon, expound his doctrine. ... He is not an educated man; but he is a plain, sensible, strong minded man. Everything he says, is said in a manner to leave an impression that he is sincere. There is no levity, no fanaticism, no want of dignity in his deportment. He is apparently from forty to forty-five years of age, rather above the middle stature, and what you ladies would call a very good looking man. In his garb there are no peculiarities; his dress being that of a plain, unpretending citizen. He is by profession a farmer, but is evidently well read.
... We teach nothing but what the Bible teaches. We believe nothing, but what is to be found in this book. ... He then entered into some details, the result of which tended to show his total unbelief of what is termed original sin. He believes that it is washed away by the blood of Christ, and that it no longer exists. As a necessary consequence, he believes that we are all born pure and undefiled. That all children dying at an early age (say eight years) not knowing good from evil, were incapable of sinning; and that all such assuredly go to heaven. ...
I believe that the soul is eternal; and had no beginning; it can have no end. ... the idea seemed to be that the soul of man, the spirit, had existed from eternity in the bosom of Divinity; and so far as he was intelligible to me, must ultimately return from whence it came. He said very little of rewards and punishments; ...
Towards the close of his address, he remarked that he had been represented as pretending to be a Savior, a worker of miracles, etc. All this was false. He made no such pretensions. He was but a man, he said; a plain, untutored man; seeking what he should do to be saved. He performed no miracles. He did not pretend to possess any such power. He closed by referring to the Mormon Bible, which he said, contained nothing inconsistent or conflicting with the Christian Bible, and he again repeated that all who would follow the precepts of the Bible, whether Mormon or not, would assuredly be saved.
Throughout his whole address, he displayed strongly a spirit of charity and forbearance. The Mormon Bible, he said, was communicated to him, direct from heaven. If there was such a thing on earth, as the author of it, then he (Smith) was the author; but the idea that he wished to impress was, that he had penned it as dictated by God. ...
[M. L. Davis, Christian Advocate and Journal (6 March 1840) as quoted in Times and Seasons 1 (March 1840): 79 and The Words of Joseph Smith by Joseph Smith by Andrew F. Ehat and Lyndon W. Cook]
My Dear Mary:--I went last evening to hear "Joe Smith," the celebrated Mormon, expound his doctrine. ... He is not an educated man; but he is a plain, sensible, strong minded man. Everything he says, is said in a manner to leave an impression that he is sincere. There is no levity, no fanaticism, no want of dignity in his deportment. He is apparently from forty to forty-five years of age, rather above the middle stature, and what you ladies would call a very good looking man. In his garb there are no peculiarities; his dress being that of a plain, unpretending citizen. He is by profession a farmer, but is evidently well read.
... We teach nothing but what the Bible teaches. We believe nothing, but what is to be found in this book. ... He then entered into some details, the result of which tended to show his total unbelief of what is termed original sin. He believes that it is washed away by the blood of Christ, and that it no longer exists. As a necessary consequence, he believes that we are all born pure and undefiled. That all children dying at an early age (say eight years) not knowing good from evil, were incapable of sinning; and that all such assuredly go to heaven. ...
I believe that the soul is eternal; and had no beginning; it can have no end. ... the idea seemed to be that the soul of man, the spirit, had existed from eternity in the bosom of Divinity; and so far as he was intelligible to me, must ultimately return from whence it came. He said very little of rewards and punishments; ...
Towards the close of his address, he remarked that he had been represented as pretending to be a Savior, a worker of miracles, etc. All this was false. He made no such pretensions. He was but a man, he said; a plain, untutored man; seeking what he should do to be saved. He performed no miracles. He did not pretend to possess any such power. He closed by referring to the Mormon Bible, which he said, contained nothing inconsistent or conflicting with the Christian Bible, and he again repeated that all who would follow the precepts of the Bible, whether Mormon or not, would assuredly be saved.
Throughout his whole address, he displayed strongly a spirit of charity and forbearance. The Mormon Bible, he said, was communicated to him, direct from heaven. If there was such a thing on earth, as the author of it, then he (Smith) was the author; but the idea that he wished to impress was, that he had penned it as dictated by God. ...
[M. L. Davis, Christian Advocate and Journal (6 March 1840) as quoted in Times and Seasons 1 (March 1840): 79 and The Words of Joseph Smith by Joseph Smith by Andrew F. Ehat and Lyndon W. Cook]
45 years ago today - Feb 4, 1980-Monday
[Leonard Arrington]
.... At 10:00 was the news, followed at 10:15 by [local talk show] Take Two, which featured an interview between [journalist] Pat Greenlaw and Sonia Johnson. ...
Sonia clearly was trying to be more humble and sincere and sympathetic toward the Utah climate than when she appeared on the Donahue show in December. She handled herself well and became flustered during only one moment.
The station had invited a representative of the LDS Church to appear with her on the program, and they had appointed a woman to do so (name unannounced). But Sonia had refused to appear with that person. When Pat asked her why she refused to appear with the LDS person she said she refused to appear with anybody who was not a policy-making authority, meaning presumably a member of the First Presidency or Quorum of the Twelve. She did not want to give the impression, she said, that women were against women. She would appear only if a man were present! One of the listeners telephoned in to ask if that wasn't sexist. In her comments and responses she specifically mentioned "[Gordon B.] Hinckley, [Boyd K.] Packer, [Neal A.] Maxwell." Apparently, according to her information those are the people who are directing the Mormon efforts against ERA.
Sonia said she was continuing to visit in states where Mormons were conducting campaigns against ERA in the legislature and trying to make clear to the legislatures that these are not representative citizens but Mormons told to lobby by the Church.
Sonia said she still had a testimony of the gospel and still believed she was a Mormon, although excommunicated. When asked if President [Spencer W.] Kimball announced that his opposition to ERA was based on revelation would she then accept his view, she fumbled around a while and said she couldn't imagine this happening and she would have to think very hard before she would give up her intense belief in ERA as the instrument for bringing about equality. She was asked about women being drafted and she said she thought it would happen with or without ERA. ...
[Confessions of a Mormon historian : the diaries of Leonard J. Arrington, 1971-1997, Gary James Bergera, editor, Signature Books, 2018]
.... At 10:00 was the news, followed at 10:15 by [local talk show] Take Two, which featured an interview between [journalist] Pat Greenlaw and Sonia Johnson. ...
Sonia clearly was trying to be more humble and sincere and sympathetic toward the Utah climate than when she appeared on the Donahue show in December. She handled herself well and became flustered during only one moment.
The station had invited a representative of the LDS Church to appear with her on the program, and they had appointed a woman to do so (name unannounced). But Sonia had refused to appear with that person. When Pat asked her why she refused to appear with the LDS person she said she refused to appear with anybody who was not a policy-making authority, meaning presumably a member of the First Presidency or Quorum of the Twelve. She did not want to give the impression, she said, that women were against women. She would appear only if a man were present! One of the listeners telephoned in to ask if that wasn't sexist. In her comments and responses she specifically mentioned "[Gordon B.] Hinckley, [Boyd K.] Packer, [Neal A.] Maxwell." Apparently, according to her information those are the people who are directing the Mormon efforts against ERA.
Sonia said she was continuing to visit in states where Mormons were conducting campaigns against ERA in the legislature and trying to make clear to the legislatures that these are not representative citizens but Mormons told to lobby by the Church.
Sonia said she still had a testimony of the gospel and still believed she was a Mormon, although excommunicated. When asked if President [Spencer W.] Kimball announced that his opposition to ERA was based on revelation would she then accept his view, she fumbled around a while and said she couldn't imagine this happening and she would have to think very hard before she would give up her intense belief in ERA as the instrument for bringing about equality. She was asked about women being drafted and she said she thought it would happen with or without ERA. ...
[Confessions of a Mormon historian : the diaries of Leonard J. Arrington, 1971-1997, Gary James Bergera, editor, Signature Books, 2018]
50 years ago today - Feb 4, 1975-Tuesday
[Leonard Arrington]
At the meeting with the [Historical Department] advisors, Brother Hunter and Brother McConkie, I took occasion to mention the difficult position we are in having in mind two goals which are sometimes incompatible: (a) Writing informative and inspiring history for members of the Church; (b) writing sound books and articles for professional and university use. I mentioned the importance of the latter by indicating what sources on the Mormons are presently being used in university classes. I mentioned examples of articles in Encyclopedia Britannica and other such basic reference works. I pointed out that we are often criticized both by the scholarly world for being too pro church and by the Church people for bending over too far to get the support of the scholarly community.
Brother McConkie said, "Don't worry, we are not criticizing you; we're not being critical of what you do."
After the meeting Sister Florence Jacobsen was asked by us to tell us what the basis was for the release of Brother Jay Welch as director of the Tabernacle Choir. She said that several years ago [Jay Welsh began receiving a $12,000 salary for some of the tedious work he had been asked to do]. ...
After discontinuance of the MIA, the Mormon Youth Symphony was made an independent agency not part of the MIA which was now being dropped, so it was placed in the hands of Brother Welch.
After Brother Welch was appointed director of the Tabernacle Choir, they went through an auditing of his accounts-that is, the accounts of the Mormon Youth Symphony. This was done under the direction of Elder Boyd Packer. Elder Packer discovered through the auditing that Brother Welch had received something in the neighborhood of $12,000 a year at the time when he was administrator of the funds of the Mormon Youth Symphony. Without giving him or Sister Jacobson or Brother [Carlos] Smith the opportunity of defending or explaining this policy and action, Brother Packer went to the president of the Church and demanded Brother Welch resign, which was done. Apparently the First Presidency did not investigate this matter and simply accepted the recommendation of Elder Packer. Florence now indicates that she may go to President Kimball to explain to him just what happened so that they would be more forgiving and more understanding of Brother Welch. She said it was her belief
and the belief of many people who were connoisseurs of music that he was head and shoulders above any other person in the Church as director of the Tabernacle Choir and far more devoted to the Church and his calling than many others. And anyway, now that Brother Welch is not available to do these arrangements, they are having to pay others to do them. She thinks Brother Welch will be reappointed director of the Choir at April conference. ...
Sister Jacobsen said Elder Packer was very millennialistic in his thinking-very idealistic and severe in his standards of theology and deportment. This sometimes made him seem harsh, judgmental, and impractical in dealing with real people and real problems. Perhaps also (I add) he feels a little insecurity in dealing with people and problems.
[Confessions of a Mormon historian : the diaries of Leonard J. Arrington, 1971-1997, Gary James Bergera, editor, Signature Books, 2018]
At the meeting with the [Historical Department] advisors, Brother Hunter and Brother McConkie, I took occasion to mention the difficult position we are in having in mind two goals which are sometimes incompatible: (a) Writing informative and inspiring history for members of the Church; (b) writing sound books and articles for professional and university use. I mentioned the importance of the latter by indicating what sources on the Mormons are presently being used in university classes. I mentioned examples of articles in Encyclopedia Britannica and other such basic reference works. I pointed out that we are often criticized both by the scholarly world for being too pro church and by the Church people for bending over too far to get the support of the scholarly community.
Brother McConkie said, "Don't worry, we are not criticizing you; we're not being critical of what you do."
After the meeting Sister Florence Jacobsen was asked by us to tell us what the basis was for the release of Brother Jay Welch as director of the Tabernacle Choir. She said that several years ago [Jay Welsh began receiving a $12,000 salary for some of the tedious work he had been asked to do]. ...
After discontinuance of the MIA, the Mormon Youth Symphony was made an independent agency not part of the MIA which was now being dropped, so it was placed in the hands of Brother Welch.
After Brother Welch was appointed director of the Tabernacle Choir, they went through an auditing of his accounts-that is, the accounts of the Mormon Youth Symphony. This was done under the direction of Elder Boyd Packer. Elder Packer discovered through the auditing that Brother Welch had received something in the neighborhood of $12,000 a year at the time when he was administrator of the funds of the Mormon Youth Symphony. Without giving him or Sister Jacobson or Brother [Carlos] Smith the opportunity of defending or explaining this policy and action, Brother Packer went to the president of the Church and demanded Brother Welch resign, which was done. Apparently the First Presidency did not investigate this matter and simply accepted the recommendation of Elder Packer. Florence now indicates that she may go to President Kimball to explain to him just what happened so that they would be more forgiving and more understanding of Brother Welch. She said it was her belief
and the belief of many people who were connoisseurs of music that he was head and shoulders above any other person in the Church as director of the Tabernacle Choir and far more devoted to the Church and his calling than many others. And anyway, now that Brother Welch is not available to do these arrangements, they are having to pay others to do them. She thinks Brother Welch will be reappointed director of the Choir at April conference. ...
Sister Jacobsen said Elder Packer was very millennialistic in his thinking-very idealistic and severe in his standards of theology and deportment. This sometimes made him seem harsh, judgmental, and impractical in dealing with real people and real problems. Perhaps also (I add) he feels a little insecurity in dealing with people and problems.
[Confessions of a Mormon historian : the diaries of Leonard J. Arrington, 1971-1997, Gary James Bergera, editor, Signature Books, 2018]
65 years ago today - Thu Feb 4, 1960
[David O. McKay]
The First Presidency had an interview with Governor George D. Clyde at his request. The Governor reported this visit with other governors with President Eisenhower and others on Civil Defense projects, having particular reference to air-raid shelters from atomic and hydrogen bombs and fall-out from such bombs. Governor Clyde's report was not a very encouraging one as to the improbability of an attack. The entire hour was occupied entirely with discussing the necessity of securing bomb shelters, not only in government, but in our own Church buildings and in private dwellings. Steps will be taken not only by the government, but by other organizations and by the Church to have bomb shelters in new buildings that are being erected.
[McKay, David O., Office Journal]
The First Presidency had an interview with Governor George D. Clyde at his request. The Governor reported this visit with other governors with President Eisenhower and others on Civil Defense projects, having particular reference to air-raid shelters from atomic and hydrogen bombs and fall-out from such bombs. Governor Clyde's report was not a very encouraging one as to the improbability of an attack. The entire hour was occupied entirely with discussing the necessity of securing bomb shelters, not only in government, but in our own Church buildings and in private dwellings. Steps will be taken not only by the government, but by other organizations and by the Church to have bomb shelters in new buildings that are being erected.
[McKay, David O., Office Journal]
140 years ago today - Feb 4, 1885
[Minutes of the Quorum of Twelve]
Prests. John Taylor & Geo. Q. Cannon having been secluded since Sundayevening word had been given to [other leaders] to meet in Council this evening ... Soon after 8. p.m. Prests Taylor & Cannon met the seven of the 12 first named at End[owment] house... President Taylor stated the object of the council. directed Br Nuttall to read a Revelation which he said he received more than a year ago requiring him to be anointed & set apart as a King Priest and Ruler over Israel on the Earth'over Zion & the Kingdom under Christ our King of Kings. He also read some extracts from minutes of the Council of the Kingdom after which the President called for any remarks when several spoke their mind and F. M. L. motioned that we proceed to obey the requirement of the Revelation. when we clothed in our Priestly attire. E Snow offered prayer, when after the usual ceremony F. M. Lyman prayed in the circle. L. Snow consecrated a bottle of oil. Counselor Cannon anointed President John Taylor and we all
laid hand on the Prest. & Geo. Q. sealed the anointing according to a written form which had been prepared. We continued together until shortly after eleven when we separated ... Prst Jno Taylor was anointed K[ing]. P[riest]. R[uler]. of C[hurch]. Z[ion]. & K[ingdom]. ...
[Note this was on the 40th anniversary of Brigham Young's reorganization of the Council of Fifty. Young's coronation date is unknown, but Feb 4, 1845 is a likely date.]
[Minutes, 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]
Prests. John Taylor & Geo. Q. Cannon having been secluded since Sundayevening word had been given to [other leaders] to meet in Council this evening ... Soon after 8. p.m. Prests Taylor & Cannon met the seven of the 12 first named at End[owment] house... President Taylor stated the object of the council. directed Br Nuttall to read a Revelation which he said he received more than a year ago requiring him to be anointed & set apart as a King Priest and Ruler over Israel on the Earth'over Zion & the Kingdom under Christ our King of Kings. He also read some extracts from minutes of the Council of the Kingdom after which the President called for any remarks when several spoke their mind and F. M. L. motioned that we proceed to obey the requirement of the Revelation. when we clothed in our Priestly attire. E Snow offered prayer, when after the usual ceremony F. M. Lyman prayed in the circle. L. Snow consecrated a bottle of oil. Counselor Cannon anointed President John Taylor and we all
laid hand on the Prest. & Geo. Q. sealed the anointing according to a written form which had been prepared. We continued together until shortly after eleven when we separated ... Prst Jno Taylor was anointed K[ing]. P[riest]. R[uler]. of C[hurch]. Z[ion]. & K[ingdom]. ...
[Note this was on the 40th anniversary of Brigham Young's reorganization of the Council of Fifty. Young's coronation date is unknown, but Feb 4, 1845 is a likely date.]
[Minutes, 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]
140 years ago today - 1885. February 4
[George Q. Cannon]
"The Council of Fifty met in the old City Hall, and Moses opposed the proposition to anoint John Taylor as Prophet, Priest and King."
[Van Wagoner, Richard and Walker, Steven C., A Book of Mormons, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
"The Council of Fifty met in the old City Hall, and Moses opposed the proposition to anoint John Taylor as Prophet, Priest and King."
[Van Wagoner, Richard and Walker, Steven C., A Book of Mormons, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
145 years ago today - Feb 4, 1880
[Wilford Woodruff]
4 I spent the day in writing in my Journal the Revelation given me in the Mountains. The Thermometer showed the Cold 6 degrees below zero, the Coldest morning of the Season.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
4 I spent the day in writing in my Journal the Revelation given me in the Mountains. The Thermometer showed the Cold 6 degrees below zero, the Coldest morning of the Season.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
160 years ago today - Feb 4, 1865
Orson Pratt publishes an installment of his autobiography in the MILLENNIAL STAR: "Towards the last of autumn [1836] I commenced the study of Algebra without a teacher, occupying leisure hrs in the evening. I soon went through Day's Algebra. . . . From 1836 to 1844, I occupied much of my leisure time in study, and made myself thoroughly acquainted with algebra, geometry, trigonometry, conic sections, differential and integral calculus, astronomy, and most of the physical sciences. These studies I pursued without the assistance of a teacher." In May of 1866, in London, Pratt published his 151-page treatise, PRATT'S CUBIC AND BIQUADRATIC EQUATIONS: "New and easy method of solution of the cubic and biquadratic equations, embracing several new formulas, greatly simplifying this department of mathematical science."
170 years ago today - Feb 4, 1855
[Wilford Woodruff]
President [Heber C.] Kimball ... said that He would withdraw fellowship from any sister that would run after any of the gentiles & He would withdraw fellowship from any mother that would give her consent for their daughters to go & associate with the gentile or from the father if He gave his consent and if He caught any man commiting Adultery with one of his daughters He would kill them both & so ought any righteous man. But let not any person that has commit Adultery ever kill another person for commiting the same act
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
President [Heber C.] Kimball ... said that He would withdraw fellowship from any sister that would run after any of the gentiles & He would withdraw fellowship from any mother that would give her consent for their daughters to go & associate with the gentile or from the father if He gave his consent and if He caught any man commiting Adultery with one of his daughters He would kill them both & so ought any righteous man. But let not any person that has commit Adultery ever kill another person for commiting the same act
[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 - Feb 4, 1855
Apostle Wilford Woodruff describes "some of the strongest preaching ever delivered to the Saints." First rebaptisms of Utah Reformation occur in wards (like Payson) as early as 14 April 1855.
[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 - Feb 4, 1845. Tuesday.
[William Clayton]
Met at the 70s Hall with the Council of the Kingdom [Quorum of Fifty]. ... This is the first time we met since the massacre of President Joseph and Hyrum Smith. The Council was reorganized and President B. Young appointed standing chairman as successor to President Joseph Smith by unanimous vote. [Voting proceeds to retain some members, and drop those not loyal to Brigham Young]. President Joseph and Hyrum two of the members were martyred for the truth and John P. Green is dead, so that there is only 40 members left in the Council. It was voted to fill up the Council at some future time.
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]
Met at the 70s Hall with the Council of the Kingdom [Quorum of Fifty]. ... This is the first time we met since the massacre of President Joseph and Hyrum Smith. The Council was reorganized and President B. Young appointed standing chairman as successor to President Joseph Smith by unanimous vote. [Voting proceeds to retain some members, and drop those not loyal to Brigham Young]. President Joseph and Hyrum two of the members were martyred for the truth and John P. Green is dead, so that there is only 40 members left in the Council. It was voted to fill up the Council at some future time.
[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]
180 years ago today - Feb 4, 1845 - Tuesday
[Council of Fifty]
On February 1845, twenty-five members of the council convened from 11:00 a.m. to :30 p.m. in the Seventies Hall for the first meeting of the council since 31 May 1844. Brigham Young stated in his journal, "Had a councel with the fifty righted up & organized we droped a number of the members." According to the minutes, Young called this meeting to "know the brethrens minds whether we shall reorganize according to the rules in the beginning," to "know whether it is the minds of the council to fill up the places of those who are gone," and to learn if the council wished "that I should take the place of brother Joseph as chairman." Members present spoke on these issues in turn by age, though with slight deviation from the order in William Clayton's May 1844 list. Clayton summarized the meeting in his journal: "This is the first time we met since the massacre of President Joseph & Hyrum Smith. The council was reorganized and president B. Young appointed standing chairman as
successor to prest. Joseph Smith by unanimous vote. The vote was then taken in ancient order on each one present & all were received by unanimous vote.." The twenty-five members who were present were sustained as council members, as were fifteen members who were absent. Of these fifteen members, six were in Nauvoo or the surrounding area at the time of this council.4 It is unclear whether this meeting was hastily called, such that word did not reach all the members, or whether pressing business kept some of the men from attending.
Following the sustaining votes, eleven of the original council members were "rejected" and dropped from the council. Those rejected were the three non-Mormon members of the council; Sidney Rigdon and one of his followers; Lyman Wight and James Emmett, both of whom had led companies of church members out of Nauvoo against the instructions of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles; and four other men whose loyalties to the Twelve as the leaders of the church were questioned. With the eleven men rejected and the earlier deaths of three council members—JS, Hyrum Smith, and John P. Greene—the council stood at forty members, including Willard Richards, the recorder; and Clayton, the clerk. Clayton wrote, "It was voted to fill up the council at some future time." Young's invitation for nominations to fill the vacancies produced eighteen names, but no new members were admitted at this time. ...
[Joseph Smith Papers: Council of Fifty, Minutes, March 1844-January 1846]
On February 1845, twenty-five members of the council convened from 11:00 a.m. to :30 p.m. in the Seventies Hall for the first meeting of the council since 31 May 1844. Brigham Young stated in his journal, "Had a councel with the fifty righted up & organized we droped a number of the members." According to the minutes, Young called this meeting to "know the brethrens minds whether we shall reorganize according to the rules in the beginning," to "know whether it is the minds of the council to fill up the places of those who are gone," and to learn if the council wished "that I should take the place of brother Joseph as chairman." Members present spoke on these issues in turn by age, though with slight deviation from the order in William Clayton's May 1844 list. Clayton summarized the meeting in his journal: "This is the first time we met since the massacre of President Joseph & Hyrum Smith. The council was reorganized and president B. Young appointed standing chairman as
successor to prest. Joseph Smith by unanimous vote. The vote was then taken in ancient order on each one present & all were received by unanimous vote.." The twenty-five members who were present were sustained as council members, as were fifteen members who were absent. Of these fifteen members, six were in Nauvoo or the surrounding area at the time of this council.4 It is unclear whether this meeting was hastily called, such that word did not reach all the members, or whether pressing business kept some of the men from attending.
Following the sustaining votes, eleven of the original council members were "rejected" and dropped from the council. Those rejected were the three non-Mormon members of the council; Sidney Rigdon and one of his followers; Lyman Wight and James Emmett, both of whom had led companies of church members out of Nauvoo against the instructions of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles; and four other men whose loyalties to the Twelve as the leaders of the church were questioned. With the eleven men rejected and the earlier deaths of three council members—JS, Hyrum Smith, and John P. Greene—the council stood at forty members, including Willard Richards, the recorder; and Clayton, the clerk. Clayton wrote, "It was voted to fill up the council at some future time." Young's invitation for nominations to fill the vacancies produced eighteen names, but no new members were admitted at this time. ...
[Joseph Smith Papers: Council of Fifty, Minutes, March 1844-January 1846]
185 years ago today - Feb 4 1840
The Nauvoo Legion militia is organized.
[Chronology of Mormon History (Mormon Stories), http://www.mormonstories.org/truth-claims/chronology-of-mormon-history/]
[Chronology of Mormon History (Mormon Stories), http://www.mormonstories.org/truth-claims/chronology-of-mormon-history/]
200 years ago today - Feb 4, 1825
Jabez B. Hyde, in Eden, N.Y., writes to Ethan Smith: "I have been in the sentiment of your book, [VIEW OF THE HEBREWS, 1823 edition] that the natives of our country are the outcasts of Israel. It cannot well be doubted by any one, who has become acquainted with the religious ceremonies of the Indians, but that they have a manifest shadow of the Mosaic rituals."
65 years ago today - Wed Feb 3, 1960
[David O. McKay]
"I referred to a letter which I had just received from the First Presidency asking me to obtain all tithing information concerning faculty members from the First Presidency. I reminded him that in April of last year he consented that I obtain this information direct from the Presiding Bishopric. I asked if there had been complaints that I had been obtaining the information from local Bishops. He told me that they had received a letter of criticism to the effect that all secretaries in my office and other places knew the amounts paid by faculty members. I assure him there was no truth of any kind to that statement, that no one had the information except me. He said he had himself assumed that fact but that he was glad to have this assurance. He suggested I take this up with the First Presidency when I met with them."
7. Richard Durham. I told President McKay that I understood Richard Durham, a seminary teacher who was taking courses on our campus this summer, had written him a letter complaining about the orthodoxy of teachers at the BYU. As I started to explain to President McKay that, in my opinion, Brother Durham was an extremist in this respect and that his criticisms were much overstated, President McKay replied that I need not fear about his reaction to the letter, that anyone who wrote a letter as partisan as the letter of Brother Durham did not make any impression on him at all, that things couldn't be as bad at the BYU as Brother Durham said they were."
[Part of a memo by Ernest L. Wilkinson concerning a meeting held with McKay on this date, McKay, David O., Office Journal]
"I referred to a letter which I had just received from the First Presidency asking me to obtain all tithing information concerning faculty members from the First Presidency. I reminded him that in April of last year he consented that I obtain this information direct from the Presiding Bishopric. I asked if there had been complaints that I had been obtaining the information from local Bishops. He told me that they had received a letter of criticism to the effect that all secretaries in my office and other places knew the amounts paid by faculty members. I assure him there was no truth of any kind to that statement, that no one had the information except me. He said he had himself assumed that fact but that he was glad to have this assurance. He suggested I take this up with the First Presidency when I met with them."
7. Richard Durham. I told President McKay that I understood Richard Durham, a seminary teacher who was taking courses on our campus this summer, had written him a letter complaining about the orthodoxy of teachers at the BYU. As I started to explain to President McKay that, in my opinion, Brother Durham was an extremist in this respect and that his criticisms were much overstated, President McKay replied that I need not fear about his reaction to the letter, that anyone who wrote a letter as partisan as the letter of Brother Durham did not make any impression on him at all, that things couldn't be as bad at the BYU as Brother Durham said they were."
[Part of a memo by Ernest L. Wilkinson concerning a meeting held with McKay on this date, McKay, David O., Office Journal]
75 years ago today - Feb 3, 1950
[George Albert Smith]
Golden R. Buchanan, coordinator on Indian Affairs and assistant to Brother Kimball on the Indian work, was there discussing with Brother Kimball Indian matters. We sat in the Hotel room for some time discussing various problems with reference to their work. Unfortunately, there seems to be some stake presidents and mission presidents, and even one or two of the Brethren of the presiding council of the Church, who seem not fully to appreciate the real importance of this Indian work, and who feel somewhat, as expressed by Brother Kimball, that it is like a ship passing in the night. I have made a note of this point and plan to discuss it further with the brethren and perhaps take it up at General Conference.
[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]
Golden R. Buchanan, coordinator on Indian Affairs and assistant to Brother Kimball on the Indian work, was there discussing with Brother Kimball Indian matters. We sat in the Hotel room for some time discussing various problems with reference to their work. Unfortunately, there seems to be some stake presidents and mission presidents, and even one or two of the Brethren of the presiding council of the Church, who seem not fully to appreciate the real importance of this Indian work, and who feel somewhat, as expressed by Brother Kimball, that it is like a ship passing in the night. I have made a note of this point and plan to discuss it further with the brethren and perhaps take it up at General Conference.
[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 - Feb 3, 1925
President Heber J. Grant dedicated a remodeled home at 31 N. State St. in Salt Lake City as the Church's missionary home, offering the first organized training for missionaries in gospel topics, Church procedures, personal health and proper manners.
[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]
130 years ago today - Feb 3, 1895
Emmeline B. Wells cancels her appointment to speak at Bethel Church in Atlanta because it is "a colored people's church [and] the Southern people consider it unwise."
130 years ago today - Feb 3, 1895
[Francis M. Lyman]
[Castle Dale] Pres[ident] Larson's first wife just died. He gave me account of his wives sudden death. I answered his questions about his family affairs. Counseled him to take home his next wife Annie and not to marry her by the law to give her advantage over his other two wives. If he were pressed by the law till he was arrested then could relieve himself by marrying at any moment. He accepted my advice in proper spirit.
[Excerpts of Apostle Francis M. Lyman Diaries, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Castle Dale] Pres[ident] Larson's first wife just died. He gave me account of his wives sudden death. I answered his questions about his family affairs. Counseled him to take home his next wife Annie and not to marry her by the law to give her advantage over his other two wives. If he were pressed by the law till he was arrested then could relieve himself by marrying at any moment. He accepted my advice in proper spirit.
[Excerpts of Apostle Francis M. Lyman Diaries, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
135 years ago today - Feb 3, 1890
US SC sustains Idaho Test Oath
United States Supreme Court Sustains the Idaho Voting "Test Oath", denying Idaho Mormons the right to vote or hold office it they admitted to merely believing in plural marriage.
[Tungate, Mel, Mormon Polygamy, http://www.tungate.com/polygamy.htm]
United States Supreme Court Sustains the Idaho Voting "Test Oath", denying Idaho Mormons the right to vote or hold office it they admitted to merely believing in plural marriage.
[Tungate, Mel, Mormon Polygamy, http://www.tungate.com/polygamy.htm]
135 years ago today - Feb 3, 1890 (Monday)
The new baptismal font, located in the basement of the southwest portion of the Tabernacle, Salt Lake City, was dedicated.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
140 years ago today - Feb 3, 1885
Idaho Test Oath
Idaho's Test Oath Law "practically disfranchised all Mormons simply because of membership in the Church" and was "sustained by the supreme court of the territory four years later." ( USSC Feb 3, 1890 ). Approximately 2,000 eligible Idaho voters were denied the opportunity of voting and holding office. (Larson, pp. 112-113.)
[Tungate, Mel, Mormon Polygamy, http://www.tungate.com/polygamy.htm]
Idaho's Test Oath Law "practically disfranchised all Mormons simply because of membership in the Church" and was "sustained by the supreme court of the territory four years later." ( USSC Feb 3, 1890 ). Approximately 2,000 eligible Idaho voters were denied the opportunity of voting and holding office. (Larson, pp. 112-113.)
[Tungate, Mel, Mormon Polygamy, http://www.tungate.com/polygamy.htm]
150 years ago today - Feb 3, 1875
On a ferry across the Mersey river in Liverpool, England Apostles Joseph Fielding Smith, John Henry Smith and secretary L. John Nuttall "got a joke on one another." They find seats in a cabin that they did not realize was marked for ladies only. As the cabin fills with women and no men they gradually realize their error John Henry Smith "sneaked out & J[oseph] F[ielding] S[mith] and L. J[ohn] N[uttall] followed all feeling as if we had been in some mischief."
170 years ago today - Feb 3, 1855
In Salt Lake City the Universal Scientific Society adopts a constitution and elects Wilford Woodruff president. The USS eventually included eighty men and one woman. Beginning with the Apr 14, 1855, meeting, lectures included: George D. Watt and Woodruff on the Deseret alphabet; John Hyde on natural philosophy; George A. Smith on chopping wood and Saracen history; William W. Phelps on the ten tribes of Israel; John Lyon on poetry; Thomas Hawkins on conserving natural resources; David Candland on public opinion, determining personal character through various methods including phrenology, and the Crimean War; Jonathan Grimshaw on music; Darwin Richardson and William France on genetics; Gilbert Clements on disciplining the mind; Orson Pratt on the planets; Almon W. Babbitt on American government; Woodruff on home manufacture and horticulture; and William Paul and Brigham Young on architecture. After a year the USS disbanded.
190 years ago today - early Feb 1835
The Northern Times, a Democratic newspaper at Kirtland, began regular publication, with F. G. Williams as publisher and Oliver Cowdery as its editor. Its stated goal was to help projected presidential candidate Martin Van Buren (then Vice President under Andrew Jackson) win the 1836 election.
[Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]
[Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm]
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