LDS publisher Bookcraft sends a memo to dealers who sell their books: "In view of the recent stories about Elder Paul H. Dunn and the accuracy of his books we thought it might be helpful if we provided you with some facts. We are enclosing with this letter a copy of Elder Dunn's official statement which was released after the initial story was printed. We believe this will help clarify the situation. We want to also remind you that just because something is printed in the newspaper or seen on television does not make it necessarily true. We believe that things Elder Dunn said to the Arizona Republic reporter were taken out of context and used in a way to change his original meanings. We know also that the original story and subsequent coverage have been deliberately slanted to hurt Elder Dunn and the Church. We want to call attention to the fact that after all the 'investigation,' these reports are dealing with stories that are a minuscule part of elder Dunn's writings. Bookcraft
has been and is still proud to be associated with this fine man and outstanding teacher. We intend to continue publishing his books, and there is absolutely no question of any of his books being recalled."
Today In Mormon History-fb
Several curious tidbits that happened on this day in Mormon History
45 years ago today - Feb 19, 1981
Apostle Bruce R. McConkie writes to BYU professor Eugene England: "Yes, President [Brigham Young] did teach that Adam was the father of our spirits, and all the related things that the cultists ascribe to him. This, however, is not true [doctrine]. He expressed views that are out of harmony with the gospel." McConkie admonishes England: "It is my province to teach to the Church what the doctrine is. It is your province to echo what I say or to remain silent."
60 years ago today - Feb 19, 1966
Ezra Taft Benson avoided the issue of American Opinion being a John Birch Society publication, nor did McKay bring it up. Instead, he repeated that "the magazine is considered a high-type magazine" on whose cover the pictures of Senator Barry Goldwater, J. Edgar Hoover, and other prominent men had appeared. Furthermore, he reminded McKay that he had given his word on the matter. Although McKay had been adamant only two days before, he now decided "that they had better go ahead with it since I had given my permission for this to be done." McKay did not tell any of his other associates that he had reversed field on the issue.
[David O. McKay diary as referenced in Gregory A. Prince and Wm. Robert Write, David O. McKay and the Rise of Modern Mormonism. Salt Lake City: University of Utah Press (2005)]
[David O. McKay diary as referenced in Gregory A. Prince and Wm. Robert Write, David O. McKay and the Rise of Modern Mormonism. Salt Lake City: University of Utah Press (2005)]
75 years ago today - Feb 19, 1951
[Letter to Bishops from First Presidency]
Dear Brethren:
It is unanimously recommended by the Presiding Bishopric, the Presidency of the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association, and the Advisors to the General Mutual Improvement Board that the close cooperation of the Bishoprics of Wards, the Sunday School and the Mutual Improvement Association leaders of the Girls' Program be continued as heretofore, even though the Girls' Program is now placed under the direct supervision of the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association.
... it seems not only advisable but essential that the Bishopric of each Ward hold at least two meetings each month-one with the officers and teachers of the Aaronic Priesthood, and another with the officers and teachers of the girls of corresponding age. We are informed that the meeting with the Aaronic Priesthood is already being held.
We now recommend that the Bishopric of each Ward arrange to hold a monthly meeting with the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association Presidency, and attendance secretary, Sunday School secretary, and the class leaders of the Bee Hive, Mia Maid and Junior Cleaner groups....
[1951-February 19-Original circular letter, L.D.S. Church, in Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
Dear Brethren:
It is unanimously recommended by the Presiding Bishopric, the Presidency of the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association, and the Advisors to the General Mutual Improvement Board that the close cooperation of the Bishoprics of Wards, the Sunday School and the Mutual Improvement Association leaders of the Girls' Program be continued as heretofore, even though the Girls' Program is now placed under the direct supervision of the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association.
... it seems not only advisable but essential that the Bishopric of each Ward hold at least two meetings each month-one with the officers and teachers of the Aaronic Priesthood, and another with the officers and teachers of the girls of corresponding age. We are informed that the meeting with the Aaronic Priesthood is already being held.
We now recommend that the Bishopric of each Ward arrange to hold a monthly meeting with the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association Presidency, and attendance secretary, Sunday School secretary, and the class leaders of the Bee Hive, Mia Maid and Junior Cleaner groups....
[1951-February 19-Original circular letter, L.D.S. Church, in Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
130 years ago today - Feb 19, 1896
[J. Golden Kimball]
Attended meeting of 1st Council [of the Seventy] held at Temple. ... Bro[ther] [B. H.] Roberts wrote that he would cancell all his appointments and not meet with council again until matters, or difficulties are arranged. Talked some with Elders Wells & Fjeldsted about Roberts case and wondered if we could do him any good.
[J. Golden Kimball, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
Attended meeting of 1st Council [of the Seventy] held at Temple. ... Bro[ther] [B. H.] Roberts wrote that he would cancell all his appointments and not meet with council again until matters, or difficulties are arranged. Talked some with Elders Wells & Fjeldsted about Roberts case and wondered if we could do him any good.
[J. Golden Kimball, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
135 years ago today - Feb 19, 1891
A delegation of Mormon young women and plural wives attends the first meeting of the National Council of Women, which accepts the Relief Society as a charter member.
[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)]]
175 years ago today - Feb 19, 1851
[Lorenzo Brown]
Attended meeting this evening at Israel Hoits good meeting & a good deal of talking in tongues because they could not talk in their own
[Journal of Lorenzo Brown: 1823-1900]
Attended meeting this evening at Israel Hoits good meeting & a good deal of talking in tongues because they could not talk in their own
[Journal of Lorenzo Brown: 1823-1900]
180 years ago today - Thursday, Feb 19, 1846.
[First snowstorm after pioneers leave Nauvoo] The wind blew steadily from the northwest, accompanied by snow which fell to the depth of 7 or 8 inches, but much of it thawed as it fell. The storm was unceasing and there was very little passing in or out of camp. The evening was very cold, which caused much suffering in the camp for there were many who had no tents or any comfortable place to lodge.
[Apostle Willard Richards Journal]
[Apostle Willard Richards Journal]
190 years ago today - Feb 19, 1836
Joseph Smith "conversed with Mr. [Joshua] Seixas [the Hebrew teacher] upon the subject of religion, . . ." Joseph writes in his diary, "He listened with attention and appeared interested with my remarks. I believe the Lord is striving with him by his Holy Spirit and that he will eventually embrace the new and everlasting covenant, for he is a chosen vessel unto the Lord to do his people good. But I forbear lest I get to prophesying upon his head."
60 years ago today - Feb 18, 1966
[David O. McKay] Apostle Mark E. Petersen stated that the Church Information Service had received a bill for $25 for a color photograph of McKay for the cover o f American Opinion, "which is the John Birch Society organ…. Elder Petersen said that if my picture is so published it will certainly look as though the Church is endorsing the John Birch Society. ... I said that my picture should not appear on this magazine; that the Church has nothing to do with the John Birch Society. I authorized Brother Petersen to tell Brother Benson that he had brought this matter to my attention, and had been told by me to stop the printing of my picture on this magazine; that I do not want it used in that way. I said to Brother Petersen, "You are ordered in the presence of these men to stop it." I further said that I do not want to have anything to do with the John Birch Society; that the Church has had nothing to do with it in the past, and that so far as Brother Benson is concerned, I do not
think we would hear anything more about it.
[David O. McKay diary as referenced in Gregory A. Prince and Wm. Robert Write, David O. McKay and the Rise of Modern Mormonism. Salt Lake City: University of Utah Press (2005)]
think we would hear anything more about it.
[David O. McKay diary as referenced in Gregory A. Prince and Wm. Robert Write, David O. McKay and the Rise of Modern Mormonism. Salt Lake City: University of Utah Press (2005)]
115 years ago today - Feb 18, 1911
Former apostle John W. Taylor comes into Apostle John Henry Smith's office "very much angered at president Francis M. Lyman and the Twelve. . . . He demanded an Interview with Pres[iden]t Joseph F. [Smith] and me. He was quite wild. He staid over two hours. . . . He demanded that President J. F. Smith call the Counsel of fifty to protect him from the Twelve in his violations of the law [for polygamy]." On Mar 28, 1911 John W. Taylor is excommunicated. At his excommunication trial (conducted by the Quorum of Twelve) he asks that President Joseph F. Smith be called on his behalf but the Quorum refuses.
135 years ago today - Feb 18, 1891
Brothers Willard and Richard W. Young called and submitted a draft of a deed for the proposed university. We approved of it. There was some discussion concerning the name. They both favored calling the university 'Young University'. President [Wilford] Woodruff, Brother [Francis M.] Lyman and myself thought that would be a very good name. Brothers Lorenzo Snow and Jos[eph]. F. Smith did not seem to favor that name. They thought 'Brigham Young University' would be better. Brother [Heber J.] Grant did not express himself fully, though I rather think he favored the latter. The two points in my mind which made me favor calling it the 'Young University' are that the heirs seem to desire that name, and the name 'Brigham Young' is applied already to the college at Logan [Utah] and the academy at Provo [Utah], and the tendency would be instead of calling it 'Brigham Young University,' to call it the B.Y. University.
[George Q. Cannon, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
[George Q. Cannon, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
150 years ago today - Feb 18, 1876
Sodomy or "crime against nature" becomes illegal in Utah Territory. Sodomy was defined as anal intercourse, a felony punishable by 5 years in prison. In 1907 the law changed the jail time to 23 years imprisonment. In 1923 hetero/homosexual oral sex added to sodomy statute. In 1953, sodomy is reduced from a felony to a class B misdemeanor.
[Timeline of Mormon Thinking About Homosexuality, http://rationalfaiths.com/timeline-of-mormon-thinking-about-homosexuality/]
[Timeline of Mormon Thinking About Homosexuality, http://rationalfaiths.com/timeline-of-mormon-thinking-about-homosexuality/]
175 years ago today - Feb 18, 1851
[Hosea Stout]
Went to se Major painting Parleys family group which looked splendid[.] It consisted of 7 wives & children
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
Went to se Major painting Parleys family group which looked splendid[.] It consisted of 7 wives & children
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
180 years ago today - Feb 18, 1846
Brigham Young organizes the pioneer's camp across the river from Nauvoo: "if the brethren could not bring their minds to perfect order, they had better leave the camp and I would have no feelings against them; that after dark no man must leave camp without the countersign, nor approach the guard abruptly; that every family must call on the Lord night and morning at every tent or wagon and we shall have no confidence in the man who does not." A lost and found is set up and a system of colored flags is announced to call various leaders to come for instructions and two cannons are brought into camp. Afterwards Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball and others "returned to Nauvoo . . . and met for prayer in the Temple."
180 years ago today - Feb 18, 1846
An article appears in the WARSAW SIGNAL concerning the endowment ceremony introduced in the Nauvoo Temple two months previously and says that participants in the endowment are "in a state of nudity throughout the ceremony, . . ." Two months later, in the Apr 15, 1846, issue, a woman who signs her name "Emeline" writes a response. Although "Emeline" admits that she is breaking oaths and covenants she has made in the temple by revealing the contents of the ritual, she feels justified because church authorities were "the most debased wretches" and the that endowment was "nothing less than fearful blasphemy." Nevertheless, she denies that the ceremony takes place in a state of nudity, except for an initial robing ceremony during which only women were present and states that no indecency took place between men and women since they are admitted separately. Although she admits that she did not remember many of the details of the ceremony, she describes the rooms, some of the characters,
as well as the fact that there were oaths, obligations, and penalties. February 18, 1850. While her husband, William Clayton plays with the band for a dancing party, his youngest wife Diantha, at her husband's suggestion, dances with a certain Mr. Grist, a gentile. The band, however, plays a waltz, and the sensibilities of some good Saints are shocked to see the wife of William Clayton waltzing with a gentile. News of this reaches top authorities and two days later, after Clayton has gone to work, an apostle and another elder arrive at his home and confront Diantha. They accuse her of three serious errors unbefitting a Latter-day Saint: (1) waltzing with a gentile, (2) "harboring and encouraging" gentiles in her home during the past winter," and (3) "slandering the authorities of the church to the Gentiles." That evening Clayton writes to Brigham Young: "The peace of my family is in a great degree destroyed," for the priesthood leaders had given his young wife a "very severe
chastisement."
as well as the fact that there were oaths, obligations, and penalties. February 18, 1850. While her husband, William Clayton plays with the band for a dancing party, his youngest wife Diantha, at her husband's suggestion, dances with a certain Mr. Grist, a gentile. The band, however, plays a waltz, and the sensibilities of some good Saints are shocked to see the wife of William Clayton waltzing with a gentile. News of this reaches top authorities and two days later, after Clayton has gone to work, an apostle and another elder arrive at his home and confront Diantha. They accuse her of three serious errors unbefitting a Latter-day Saint: (1) waltzing with a gentile, (2) "harboring and encouraging" gentiles in her home during the past winter," and (3) "slandering the authorities of the church to the Gentiles." That evening Clayton writes to Brigham Young: "The peace of my family is in a great degree destroyed," for the priesthood leaders had given his young wife a "very severe
chastisement."
185 years ago today - Feb 18, 1841
In England Wilford Woodruff receives a letter from his wife: "It was truly a feast to me to hear from my Dear wife [and] child . . . after being separated nearly two years from them."
45 years ago today - Feb 17, 1981-Tuesday
[Leonard Arrington]
I learned that some time ago when Ed Lyon was in Nauvoo, Elder [Howard W.] Hunter and his family came there on a Church history trip. They would read about each area as they came to it, in their hotel room at night. In the course of Ed's comments to them as they were in Nauvoo, he told them some things that are not "traditional" history as it is generally taught. One of Elder Hunter's sons said, "Dad, why are we doing this and not telling people the truth? Why is our history written like that?" Elder Hunter is reported to have responded that he regretted that it was, and that he sincerely hoped that we would do better in the future.
[Confessions of a Mormon historian : the diaries of Leonard J. Arrington, 1971-1997, Gary James Bergera, editor, Signature Books, 2018]
I learned that some time ago when Ed Lyon was in Nauvoo, Elder [Howard W.] Hunter and his family came there on a Church history trip. They would read about each area as they came to it, in their hotel room at night. In the course of Ed's comments to them as they were in Nauvoo, he told them some things that are not "traditional" history as it is generally taught. One of Elder Hunter's sons said, "Dad, why are we doing this and not telling people the truth? Why is our history written like that?" Elder Hunter is reported to have responded that he regretted that it was, and that he sincerely hoped that we would do better in the future.
[Confessions of a Mormon historian : the diaries of Leonard J. Arrington, 1971-1997, Gary James Bergera, editor, Signature Books, 2018]
140 years ago today - Feb 17, 1886
[Wilford Woodruff]
My abode was visited to day by 2 spotter. They did not finally search the House But they made a great Deal of Enquiry about the House but finally went off. <I was hid.>
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
My abode was visited to day by 2 spotter. They did not finally search the House But they made a great Deal of Enquiry about the House but finally went off. <I was hid.>
[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 17, 1886
George Q. Cannon, arrested for polygamy, is released on $45,000 bail. Apostles Heber J. Grant, John W. Taylor, Franklin D. Richards and John Henry Smith visit him at his home and "found him badly bruised but feeling cheerful." Cannon was "badly bruised" from jumping from a moving train in an escape attempt after being arrested.
170 years ago today - Feb 17, 1856
Brigham Young "asked Elder Orson Pratt what He thought of his preaching that intelligent beings would continue to learn to all Eternity. O. Pratt said that He believed the Gods had a knowledge at the present time of every thing that ever did exist to the endless ages of all Eternity. He believed it as much as any truth that he had ever learned in or out of this Church. President Young remarked that he had never learned that principle in the church for it was not taught in the Church for it was not true. It was fals[e] doctrin[e] For the Gods and all intelligent Beings would never cease to learn except it was the Sons of perdition they would continue to decrease until they became dissolved back into their native Element & lost their Identity." This is only one point of doctrine over which Brigham Young and Orson Pratt differed throughout their lives. In 1980, Apostle Bruce R. McConkie calls Brigham Young's doctrine that God continues to learn a "deadly heresy" and says: "[t]his is
false-utterly, totally, and completely. There is not one sliver of truth in it."
false-utterly, totally, and completely. There is not one sliver of truth in it."
170 years ago today - Feb 17, 1856
Prest Young said: if a man has many visions he is more liable to be overcome by the devil than the man that has no visions.... When this Church goes to Jackson Co. they will go from the West towards the East and not go through South America or Texas as many think. But before we go there we must live in a desolate place where gentiles can't, till we get a large company. When people leave a gathering place of the Saints to find a good country where they can live easy, they will apostatize or be driven from it. -- SLC Tabernacle
[John Pulsipher Journal, BYU. 38, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
[John Pulsipher Journal, BYU. 38, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
170 years ago today - Feb 17, 1856
[Brigham Young]
When a person apostatizes, he continues to decrease until they are wilted out to nothing - My spirit in me was not a particle contaminated by the fall of Adam but in consequence of being connected with the body it must continue until it is released - The devil had not a particle of power over the spirit but if I die in my sins then he continues his power - he will destroy sin and he that hath the power of it - he will decompose it into element but not annihilated - the individuality is annihilated - The earth and the air is full of the properties of the grape. -- Salt Lake City
[Leonard J. Arrington Papers, Special Collections, Merrill-Cazier Library, Utah State University, Logan. (A reference reading LJA 12-55-5, 10, means LJA Series 12, Box 55, Folder 5, page 10.) 9-13-4, 169, in The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
When a person apostatizes, he continues to decrease until they are wilted out to nothing - My spirit in me was not a particle contaminated by the fall of Adam but in consequence of being connected with the body it must continue until it is released - The devil had not a particle of power over the spirit but if I die in my sins then he continues his power - he will destroy sin and he that hath the power of it - he will decompose it into element but not annihilated - the individuality is annihilated - The earth and the air is full of the properties of the grape. -- Salt Lake City
[Leonard J. Arrington Papers, Special Collections, Merrill-Cazier Library, Utah State University, Logan. (A reference reading LJA 12-55-5, 10, means LJA Series 12, Box 55, Folder 5, page 10.) 9-13-4, 169, 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 - Feb 17, 1846
[Brigham Young] instructed the brethren to ... never to borrow without asking leave and then be sure and return the same lest your brother be vexed with you and in his anger curse you and then you will be cursed according to the power of the priesthood that a brother professes, and evil will come upon you; that all dogs in the camp should be killed if the owners would not tie them; that any man who would keep a horse in camp that had distemper should forfeit all his horses; ... He then called upon all who wanted to go with the camp to raise their right hand, and all hands were up.
[Apostle Willard Richards Journal]
[Apostle Willard Richards Journal]
185 years ago today - Feb 17, 1841
[Heber C. Kimball]
And it come to pass that we went to Barttalomy [St. Bartholomew] Hospital. We went threw one room whare we saw as menny as 20 bodies of men and wimmen Laid in diffrent Situations under diffrent stats [states] of decetion [dissection], some just brought in with thare mouths soad [sewed] up. I must confess It gave wonderfull feelings.
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
And it come to pass that we went to Barttalomy [St. Bartholomew] Hospital. We went threw one room whare we saw as menny as 20 bodies of men and wimmen Laid in diffrent Situations under diffrent stats [states] of decetion [dissection], some just brought in with thare mouths soad [sewed] up. I must confess It gave wonderfull feelings.
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
190 years ago today - 17 February 1836 - Wednesday
Wednesday the 17th attend[ed] the school and read and translated with my class as usual, and my soul delights in reading the word of the Lord in the original, and I am determined to persue the study of languages untill I shall become master of them, if I am permitted to live long enough, at any rate so long as I do live I am determined to make this my object, and with the blessing of God I shall succe[e]d to my sattisfaction,- this evening Elder Joseph Coe called to make some arangements about the Egyptian records and the mummies, he proposes to hire a room at J[ohn] Johnson s Inn and exibit them there from day to day at certain hours, that some benefit may be derived from them- I complied with his request, and only observed that they must be managed with prudence and care especially the manuscripts [[Seven months earlier, Coe loaned eight hundred dollars to help purchase the mummies and papyri, expecting to be quickly repaid from the sales of JS's translation of the papyri. With
the translation still unpublished, Coe desired to recoup his losses by exhibiting the mummies and papyri.]]
[Joseph Smith, "Sketch Book for the use of Joseph Smith, jr.," Journal, Sept. 1835-Apr. 1836]
the translation still unpublished, Coe desired to recoup his losses by exhibiting the mummies and papyri.]]
[Joseph Smith, "Sketch Book for the use of Joseph Smith, jr.," Journal, Sept. 1835-Apr. 1836]
20 years ago today - Feb 16, 2006
L A Times front page story "Bedrock of a Faith is Jolted" on fact that DNA studies show no Hebrew ancestry to Native Americans.
30 years ago today - Feb 16, 1996
[Same-Sex Marriage]
Rex E. Lee, issues a position paper arguing for the limitation of marriage to opposite-sex partners.
[Crapo, Richley, Chronology Of Mormon / LDS Involvement In Same-Sex Marriage Politics http://www.mormonsocialscience.org/?q=node/59]
Rex E. Lee, issues a position paper arguing for the limitation of marriage to opposite-sex partners.
[Crapo, Richley, Chronology Of Mormon / LDS Involvement In Same-Sex Marriage Politics http://www.mormonsocialscience.org/?q=node/59]
35 years ago today - Feb 16, 1991
Arizona Republic' publishes an analysis of decades of talks by Seventy's president Paul H. Dunn who has misrepresented his military and baseball careers in order to tell "faith-promoting" stories to LDS youth and young adults. This is based on the research of investigative reporter Lynn Packer, whose teaching employment is terminated at BYU after the story's publication. In an interview Dunn defends himself by saying that parables of Jesus are not literally true either. On 23 Oct. Dunn writes an "Open Letter to the Members of the Church," confessing his "inaccurate" sermons and "other activities inconsistent with the high and sacred office which I have held." He acknowledges that general authorities "have censured me and placed a heavy penalty upon me." In addition to receiving emeritus status in 1989, five years before its normal implementation at age seventy, the unnamed "heavy penalty" allegedly now includes Dunn's loss of LDS privileges. Without formal disfellowshipment this
would be similar to the 1911 decision concerning Matthias F. Cowley, who also had been previously released as a general authority before his added punishment.
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
would be similar to the 1911 decision concerning Matthias F. Cowley, who also had been previously released as a general authority before his added punishment.
[The Mormon Hierarchy - Extensions of Power by D. Michael Quinn, [New Mormon History database (http://bit.ly/NMHdatabase)]]
35 years ago today - Feb 16, 1991
Leftist rebels in Santiago, Chile, set a Mormon chapel afire and leave pamphlets protesting the U.S.-led war against Iraq. According to the Associated Press, the attack is one of a number of attacks against U.S. and European targets in South America after the war began.
75 years ago today - Feb 16, 1951
[George Albert Smith to Arthur Haycock]
.... You know as much or more about my affairs as anybody. I am not gaining any strength, and unless the Lord takes a hand it will not be long before it is over. ... Zion's Savings Bank has been appointed my trustee, as you know, and my will provides for the division of the real estate amongst my children, share and share alike. I don't think my girls have any idea how near I have been to the other side. I haven't felt that my work was done at all.... The big automobile belongs to the Church. It isn't mine. One of my regrets is that I have been unable to organize a library and dispose of it. I don't know how I ever got here (in the hospital). They never talked to me about it. I don't like the idea of being in the hands of doctors all the time. I want to leave some of it up to the Lord. Arthur, I want you to know that I have absolute confidence in your faith and integrity and in you as a member of the Church. My family feel toward you just as I do. The Lord bless you, and many, many
thanks for your kindnesses. As long as I have the money I want to pay my own hospital expenses. I don't want the Church to do it.
['Statement Made by President George Albert Smith to His Secretary, D. Arthur Haycock, Friday, February 16, 1951, 10:15 A.M., L.D.S. Hospital, Room 703', as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
.... You know as much or more about my affairs as anybody. I am not gaining any strength, and unless the Lord takes a hand it will not be long before it is over. ... Zion's Savings Bank has been appointed my trustee, as you know, and my will provides for the division of the real estate amongst my children, share and share alike. I don't think my girls have any idea how near I have been to the other side. I haven't felt that my work was done at all.... The big automobile belongs to the Church. It isn't mine. One of my regrets is that I have been unable to organize a library and dispose of it. I don't know how I ever got here (in the hospital). They never talked to me about it. I don't like the idea of being in the hands of doctors all the time. I want to leave some of it up to the Lord. Arthur, I want you to know that I have absolute confidence in your faith and integrity and in you as a member of the Church. My family feel toward you just as I do. The Lord bless you, and many, many
thanks for your kindnesses. As long as I have the money I want to pay my own hospital expenses. I don't want the Church to do it.
['Statement Made by President George Albert Smith to His Secretary, D. Arthur Haycock, Friday, February 16, 1951, 10:15 A.M., L.D.S. Hospital, Room 703', as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
115 years ago today - Feb 16, 1911; Thursday
[John W. Taylor to Joseph F. Smith]
Beloved President:
I earnestly request that you call a meeting at your earliest convenience of all of the members of the Kingdom of God [Council of Fifty].
The rights and liberties of some of my co-religionists, my family and myself are now being unjustly attacked and trampled under foot by members of our organization, contrary to our sacred rights that we are entitled to enjoy under the provisions of our constitution.
... In the name of every thing that is sacred to the heart of man, I implore you as Prophet, President and King, to grant unto me a hearing at once, that I may more fully set forth the reasons for my grievance which the consitution of the Kingdom of God so fully guarantees to its members.
Anxiously awaiting an answer, I remain with the sentiments of the highest esteem, Your brother in the bonds of the New and Everlasting Covenant and fellow laborer in the Kingdom of God.
[signed] John W. Taylor
[Note at top of letter:] Not granted I think the demand most absurd. J[oseph]. F. S[mith].
[John W. Taylor, letter to Joseph F. Smith, and Joseph F. Smith, handwritten response, Quinn Papers, original in LDS Archives]
Beloved President:
I earnestly request that you call a meeting at your earliest convenience of all of the members of the Kingdom of God [Council of Fifty].
The rights and liberties of some of my co-religionists, my family and myself are now being unjustly attacked and trampled under foot by members of our organization, contrary to our sacred rights that we are entitled to enjoy under the provisions of our constitution.
... In the name of every thing that is sacred to the heart of man, I implore you as Prophet, President and King, to grant unto me a hearing at once, that I may more fully set forth the reasons for my grievance which the consitution of the Kingdom of God so fully guarantees to its members.
Anxiously awaiting an answer, I remain with the sentiments of the highest esteem, Your brother in the bonds of the New and Everlasting Covenant and fellow laborer in the Kingdom of God.
[signed] John W. Taylor
[Note at top of letter:] Not granted I think the demand most absurd. J[oseph]. F. S[mith].
[John W. Taylor, letter to Joseph F. Smith, and Joseph F. Smith, handwritten response, Quinn Papers, original in LDS Archives]
140 years ago today - Feb 16, 1886
[Wilford Woodruff]
It is Confirmed to day that Georg Q Cannon is arested & in the Hands of the Marshals. We are in the Midst of a National Persecution. The United States Government is making war upon the Latter Day Saints. Judgment is begining at the House of God. But if the Saints Suffer for their Religion Our Persecuters will Suffer for thir sins. Great things await this Generation. Behold the signs of the time. Watch for the Coming of the Son of Man.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
It is Confirmed to day that Georg Q Cannon is arested & in the Hands of the Marshals. We are in the Midst of a National Persecution. The United States Government is making war upon the Latter Day Saints. Judgment is begining at the House of God. But if the Saints Suffer for their Religion Our Persecuters will Suffer for thir sins. Great things await this Generation. Behold the signs of the time. Watch for the Coming of the Son of Man.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
180 years ago today - Feb 16, 1846
Brigham Young, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, organizes the Camp of Israel at Sugar Creek, Iowa, preparatory to the Saints' trek across the plains. The organization includes captains of tens, fifties, and hundreds.
185 years ago today - Feb 16, 1841
Wilford Woodruf writes while in England of "the awful Judgments that await the Nations. WAR WAR is [at] the door between England & America. O Lord Deliver us."
85 years ago today - Feb 15, 1941
Sunday School and Stake Conferences-- Church Archives, Salt Lake City, Utah.
All Sunday School classes, with the exception of the adult Gospel Doctrine class should remain in session on stake quarterly conference days. {1941-February 15-Original circular letter, L.D.S.}
[Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
All Sunday School classes, with the exception of the adult Gospel Doctrine class should remain in session on stake quarterly conference days. {1941-February 15-Original circular letter, L.D.S.}
[Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]
100 years ago today - Feb 15, 1926
Albert Choules Jr., later a member of the First Quorum of the Seventy, is born in Driggs, Idaho.
115 years ago today - Wednesday, Feb 15, 1911
[Second Counselor John Henry Smith]
Salt Lake City
I paid To Willard T. Cannon the final payment on the Dover Hotel building for J[osephine] G. Smith $258.41.
[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
I paid To Willard T. Cannon the final payment on the Dover Hotel building for J[osephine] G. Smith $258.41.
[Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith]
115 years ago today - Feb 15, 1911
Former Apostle John W. Taylor is summoned by the Quorum of Apostles: "By these presents you are summoned to appear before the Council of the Twelve Apostles in the Salt Lake Temple at 10 A.M. on Wednesday February 22, 1911, to vindicate yourself of the claim entertained by your brethren that you have married a plural wife within the last six years contrary to the discipline of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and that you have aided and encouraged others to enter such a relationship. You will also be required to answer any and all questions that may be put to you by the Council upon these points, to tell us the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. Do not fail to appear as we shall be in session there and then to receive you."
115 years ago today - Feb 15, 1911
Met with some of the Twelve in Temple. Had up method of reaching J[ohn]. W. Taylor. Decided to summon him to appear one week from date, [Anthony W.] Ivins to serve it also to postpone [Matthias F.] Cowley case for one week.
[Charles W. Penrose, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
[Charles W. Penrose, Diary, 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 15, 1906; Thursday
The regular meeting of the First Presidency and Apostles was held in the temple this morning.
It was decided to reorganize the Wayne [Utah] Stake Presidency, and Gearson S. Bastian, first counselor to President [Willis E.] Robinson, was unanimously chosen as the new President, in the understanding that he enter upon the duties of his office at once, and be set apart later. President Robinson is to be advised of this action and requested to turn over the affairs of the stake in his custody to Brother Bastian. This was done on motion of President Francis M. Lyman.
A letter was read from Sister Martha H. Tingey, asking whether or not the Young Ladies Mutual Improvement Association should continue to retain membership in the National Council of Women's organizations and to send delegates occasionally to its conventions?
It was decided to advise Sister Tingey to continue the Association's membership in the National Council, and to send delegates as heretofore. ...
Brother [Charles W.] Penrose said on Friday evening he went to Richmond [Utah] with others to attend the funeral services of Brother [Marriner Wood] Merrill at Richmond on Saturday. The Richmond tabernacle had been fitted up temporarily for this purpose. House crowded to the utmost capacity with quite a number of people outside, a large number having come from Logan [Utah] and other places by special train. Pres[iden]t. Anthon H. Lund was present. Good, timely remarks made by all the speakers.
President Lund said he was very much struck with the quiet, peaceful expression of Brother Merrill's face, he looked as though he had just dropped off to sleep.
[First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
It was decided to reorganize the Wayne [Utah] Stake Presidency, and Gearson S. Bastian, first counselor to President [Willis E.] Robinson, was unanimously chosen as the new President, in the understanding that he enter upon the duties of his office at once, and be set apart later. President Robinson is to be advised of this action and requested to turn over the affairs of the stake in his custody to Brother Bastian. This was done on motion of President Francis M. Lyman.
A letter was read from Sister Martha H. Tingey, asking whether or not the Young Ladies Mutual Improvement Association should continue to retain membership in the National Council of Women's organizations and to send delegates occasionally to its conventions?
It was decided to advise Sister Tingey to continue the Association's membership in the National Council, and to send delegates as heretofore. ...
Brother [Charles W.] Penrose said on Friday evening he went to Richmond [Utah] with others to attend the funeral services of Brother [Marriner Wood] Merrill at Richmond on Saturday. The Richmond tabernacle had been fitted up temporarily for this purpose. House crowded to the utmost capacity with quite a number of people outside, a large number having come from Logan [Utah] and other places by special train. Pres[iden]t. Anthon H. Lund was present. Good, timely remarks made by all the speakers.
President Lund said he was very much struck with the quiet, peaceful expression of Brother Merrill's face, he looked as though he had just dropped off to sleep.
[First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes]
120 years ago today - Feb 15, 1906
The regular meeting of the First Presidency and Apostles was held in the temple this morning. It was decided to reorganize the Wayne [Utah] Stake Presidency, and Gearson S. Bastian, first counselor to President [Willis E.] Robinson, was unanimously chosen as the new President, in the understanding that he enter upon the duties of his office at once, and be set apart later. President Robinson is to be advised of this action and requested to turn over the affairs of the stake in his custody to Brother Bastian. This was done on motion of President Francis M. Lyman. A letter was read from Sister Martha H. Tingey, asking whether or not the Young Ladies Mutual Improvement Association should continue to retain membership in the National Council of Women's organizations and to send delegates occasionally to its conventions? It was decided to advise Sister Tingey to continue the Association's membership in the National Council, and to send delegates as heretofore. ... Brother [Charles W.]
Penrose said on Friday evening he went to Richmond [Utah] with others to
attend the funeral services of Brother [Marriner Wood] Merrill at Richmond on Saturday. The Richmond tabernacle had been fitted up temporarily for this purpose. House crowded to the utmost capacity with quite a number of people outside, a large number having come from Logan [Utah] and other places by special train. Pres[iden]t. Anthon H. Lund was present. Good, timely remarks made by all the speakers. President Lund said he was very much struck with the quiet, peaceful expression of Brother Merrill's face, he looked as though he had just dropped off to sleep.
[Journal History, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
Penrose said on Friday evening he went to Richmond [Utah] with others to
attend the funeral services of Brother [Marriner Wood] Merrill at Richmond on Saturday. The Richmond tabernacle had been fitted up temporarily for this purpose. House crowded to the utmost capacity with quite a number of people outside, a large number having come from Logan [Utah] and other places by special train. Pres[iden]t. Anthon H. Lund was present. Good, timely remarks made by all the speakers. President Lund said he was very much struck with the quiet, peaceful expression of Brother Merrill's face, he looked as though he had just dropped off to sleep.
[Journal History, 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 - Thursday, Feb 15, 1906
[Apostle John Henry Smith]
Washington, D.C.
I met Senators Tom Carter of Montana, [Jacob] Gallinger of New Hampshire, Teller of Colorado. With the later two I had nice free conversations on the position of Reed Smoot. They feel that he will keep his seat.
Reed Smoot, F. S. Richards and myself met A. S. Worthington and talked over the situation. Ed. Loose left for home.
[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]
Washington, D.C.
I met Senators Tom Carter of Montana, [Jacob] Gallinger of New Hampshire, Teller of Colorado. With the later two I had nice free conversations on the position of Reed Smoot. They feel that he will keep his seat.
Reed Smoot, F. S. Richards and myself met A. S. Worthington and talked over the situation. Ed. Loose left for home.
[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]
125 years ago today - Feb 15, 1901; Friday
It was fully two o'clock this morning before I went to sleep. In thinking over my call to Japan and the many things that might happen during my absence, it seemed that I could not possibly go to sleep. I looked at my watch just before two o'clock and just about that time I hoped sincerely that Karl G. Maeser would be alive when I returned from Japan. I met him yesterday afternoon in connection with my associates at a board meeting of the Sunday School Union meeting. He was looking and feeling well. As I walked down town this morning and passed the Deseret news office, I read a bulletin, announcing the death of Karl G. Maeser. He must have died within an hour or so from the very time that I was hoping he would live until my return from my mission. ...
Ten A.M. attended director's meeting of the Utah Idaho Sugar Co[mpany]. and a 35% stock dividend was unanimously declared. I thank the Lord with all my heart for this dividend as I feel sure that within a very few days the advance in stock will make me from 415,000 to $25,000 directly or indirectly.
[Heber J. Grant, Diary]
Ten A.M. attended director's meeting of the Utah Idaho Sugar Co[mpany]. and a 35% stock dividend was unanimously declared. I thank the Lord with all my heart for this dividend as I feel sure that within a very few days the advance in stock will make me from 415,000 to $25,000 directly or indirectly.
[Heber J. Grant, Diary]
125 years ago today - Friday, Feb 15, 1901
[Apostle Rudger Clawson]
Salt Lake City. Cloudy and cool. I spent the day in Brigham City, going in the morning and returning in the evening. I attended to some matters of business while there. Pres. Chas. Kelly is suffering with an attack of his kidneys and is quite sick.
Upon returning home I was shocked to hear of the sudden death of Brother Karl G. Maeser, who passed away during the morning with heart trouble. Brother Maeser has been a very active and faithful man in the church. Under the direction of President Brigham Young, he built up the Brigham Young Academy of Provo and has done a great work as general supt. of Church Schools, asst. supt. of Religion Classes, and general asst. supt. of the Sunday Schools throughout the church. He will be greatly missed.
[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]
Salt Lake City. Cloudy and cool. I spent the day in Brigham City, going in the morning and returning in the evening. I attended to some matters of business while there. Pres. Chas. Kelly is suffering with an attack of his kidneys and is quite sick.
Upon returning home I was shocked to hear of the sudden death of Brother Karl G. Maeser, who passed away during the morning with heart trouble. Brother Maeser has been a very active and faithful man in the church. Under the direction of President Brigham Young, he built up the Brigham Young Academy of Provo and has done a great work as general supt. of Church Schools, asst. supt. of Religion Classes, and general asst. supt. of the Sunday Schools throughout the church. He will be greatly missed.
[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]
130 years ago today - Feb 15, 1896
At the request of Elder Seymour B. Young, the sum of $15 per month was appropriated by the First Presidency towards the support of the widow and child of the late Elder Herriman of the Presidency of Seventies; $50 was appropriated to aid Elder Ira Hatch who had been on a mission to the Indians of Uintah.
[Journal History, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
[Journal History, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
130 years ago today - Feb 15, 1896
[Apostle Franklin D. Richards]
Apostle Moses Thatcher moved from Logan corner of the Temple Block a place bought of Aurelius Miner & formerly owned by Elder William Clayton now metamorphosed into a Palace.
[Diary Excerpts of Franklin D. Richards, 1887-1897, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
Apostle Moses Thatcher moved from Logan corner of the Temple Block a place bought of Aurelius Miner & formerly owned by Elder William Clayton now metamorphosed into a Palace.
[Diary Excerpts of Franklin D. Richards, 1887-1897, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
135 years ago today - Feb 15, 1891
[President Wilford Woodruff]
15 Sunday I spent the day in the House reading.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
15 Sunday I spent the day in the House reading.
[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 - Sunday, Feb 15, 1891
[Apostle John Henry Smith]
Manassa
It is quite lonesome. No meetings of any kind, owing to the small pox scare.
[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]
Manassa
It is quite lonesome. No meetings of any kind, owing to the small pox scare.
[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]
140 years ago today - Feb 15, 1886 (Monday)
In the Third District Court, Samuel F. Ball, and James O. Poulson, charged with u.c. [Unlawful Cohabitation, I.E. living with a polygamous wife], testified in their own cases, and were each adjudged guilty by the jury. Two other indictments against each of them were continued for the term. After trial, in which Eliza Shafer was forced to testify, the jury returned a verdict of guilty against John W. Snell. Robert Morris was sentenced by Judge Zane to six months' imprisonment and $150 fine, and taken to the Penitentiary. Martha T. Cannon, wife of Pres. Geo. Q. Cannon, was insulted in court.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
140 years ago today - Feb 15, 1886
Martha J. Cannon is brought into the third district court. The grand jury complains that she will not answer certain questions, including: "Are you not now a pregnant woman?" .... "Are you not now with child by your husband, [First Counselor] George Q. Cannon?" On still declining to answer the court adjudges her guilty of contempt, and pending sentence she is placed under bonds of $2,500, which are subsequently raised to $5,000.
140 years ago today - Feb 15, 1886
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff]
15 I wrote Letter to M. E. Teasdale & Mrs P A Christofferson.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
15 I wrote Letter to M. E. Teasdale & Mrs P A Christofferson.
[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 - Monday, Feb 15, 1886
[Apostle John Henry Smith]
Salt Lake City
Their is no question now but what Bro. G. Q. Cannon has been arrested. Marshall E. A. Ireland says he has fallen from the train and is badly hurt. A. E. Hyde telegraphed that Bro. Cannon was hurt but not seriously.
[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
Their is no question now but what Bro. G. Q. Cannon has been arrested. Marshall E. A. Ireland says he has fallen from the train and is badly hurt. A. E. Hyde telegraphed that Bro. Cannon was hurt but not seriously.
[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]
145 years ago today - Feb 15, 1881
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff]
15 I wrote 3 Letters to F Scott, Jesse Hobson & M Cowley.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
15 I wrote 3 Letters to F Scott, Jesse Hobson & M Cowley.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
150 years ago today - Feb 15, 1876
First Presidency Counselor George Q. Cannon publishes an editorial in the JUVENILE INSTRUCTOR criticizing waltzing as "not conducive to health" and "considered improper by the servants of God who are placed to teach us."
155 years ago today - Feb 15, 1871
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff]
15 I returned to the City. Brother Roberts had returned from the East & Brought 240 stands of Bees of the [-]. I spent most of the day at work among them.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
15 I returned to the City. Brother Roberts had returned from the East & Brought 240 stands of Bees of the [-]. I spent most of the day at work among them.
[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 15, 1861
The President noticed that Pres. J. Buchanan had been in London and engaged himself to the British Government to do three things: to annex Cuba, take Mexico, and drive the Mormons. Prest. remarked it was the intention of the Soldiers at Camp Floyd to take and sell what they get from the Government property in camp Floyd. -- Salt Lake City [Brigham Young Office Journals, Special Collections, Merrill-Cazier Library, Utah State University, Logan.; Archives, Church History Library, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Salt Lake City, Utah.; New Mormon Studies CD-ROM]
[The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
[The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009), http://bit.ly/BY-discourses]
165 years ago today - Feb 15, 1861
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff]
15 We left Ogden & returned home to Great Salt Lake City & spent the night at home. Whole Distance to Box Elder & Back again 130 miles.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
15 We left Ogden & returned home to Great Salt Lake City & spent the night at home. Whole Distance to Box Elder & Back again 130 miles.
[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 15, 1856
[Hosea Stout]
Friday 15 Feb 1856. Court met at ten a. m. Several motions were argued and some few cases continued over and court adjourned till Monday next to give place for Elections of Delegates to the state convention tomorrow
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
Friday 15 Feb 1856. Court met at ten a. m. Several motions were argued and some few cases continued over and court adjourned till Monday next to give place for Elections of Delegates to the state convention tomorrow
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
175 years ago today - Feb 15, 1851
[Hosea Stout]
Saturday 15th February 1851. Last evening Charles Shumway and M. D. Hambleton came in from San-Pete[.] They bring news that M. D. Hambleton on last Sunday killed Dr. J. M. Vaughan for similar conduct with Mrs. H. as took place with Dr & Foots wife last summer.
Hamilton will have a trial on the case befor the Supreme Court soon I suppose, when more will be heard about the matter. I spent the day about the City and at home not however doing much business.
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
Saturday 15th February 1851. Last evening Charles Shumway and M. D. Hambleton came in from San-Pete[.] They bring news that M. D. Hambleton on last Sunday killed Dr. J. M. Vaughan for similar conduct with Mrs. H. as took place with Dr & Foots wife last summer.
Hamilton will have a trial on the case befor the Supreme Court soon I suppose, when more will be heard about the matter. I spent the day about the City and at home not however doing much business.
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
175 years ago today - Feb 15, 1851
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff]
15th I spent the day at home. Sister Mary Nobles died to day.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
15th I spent the day at home. Sister Mary Nobles died to day.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
180 years ago today - Feb 15, 1846, Sunday
[William Clayton Writings]
Sunday, 15th. Riding around to get teams and things together. Sent two teams over the river.
[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]
Sunday, 15th. Riding around to get teams and things together. Sent two teams over the river.
[Fillerup, Robert C., compiler; William Clayton Nauvoo Diaries and Personal Writings, A chronological compilation of the personal writings of William Clayton while he was a resident of Nauvoo, Illinois. http://www.boap.org/LDS/Early-Saints/clayton-diaries]
180 years ago today - Feb 15, 1846. Sunday.
[William Clayton]
Riding around to get teams and things together. Sent two teams over [].
[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]
Riding around to get teams and things together. Sent two teams over [].
[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 - Sunday, Feb 15, 1846.
[Willard Richards]
[Brigham Young and other leaders cross the frozen Mississippi River, leading pioneers west.] Very fine morning. Snow 3 or 4 inches deep. ... At 12 noon, got in my carriage furnished by Daniel Parrot and driven by his son, Henry, with Amelia E. P. and Sarah L. Richards, Ellen, Heber John, and Rhoda A. Jennetta, with my buggy lashed behind and tent poles, and arrived across the river about 2 p.m., ... where [there] was President Young and about 50 loaded wagons and carriages, and B. [Brigham] Young would not go on till all who were going at that time were ready. We started about 4, okay. Traveling very bad; about 4 miles out, come to a bad hill and President Young would not go on till he had seen all the teams up, laboring with his own hands. Left the hill at dusk and arrived at Sugar Creek camp about 8. All in conference in camp. 9 miles.
[Apostle Willard Richards Journal]
[Brigham Young and other leaders cross the frozen Mississippi River, leading pioneers west.] Very fine morning. Snow 3 or 4 inches deep. ... At 12 noon, got in my carriage furnished by Daniel Parrot and driven by his son, Henry, with Amelia E. P. and Sarah L. Richards, Ellen, Heber John, and Rhoda A. Jennetta, with my buggy lashed behind and tent poles, and arrived across the river about 2 p.m., ... where [there] was President Young and about 50 loaded wagons and carriages, and B. [Brigham] Young would not go on till all who were going at that time were ready. We started about 4, okay. Traveling very bad; about 4 miles out, come to a bad hill and President Young would not go on till he had seen all the teams up, laboring with his own hands. Left the hill at dusk and arrived at Sugar Creek camp about 8. All in conference in camp. 9 miles.
[Apostle Willard Richards Journal]
180 years ago today - Feb 15, 1846
[Thomas Bullock journal, Feb. 15, 1846] At home until 5 [p.m.] when I went up to the Temple to pray. We assembled in the Upper Room [attic] at 6 [p.m] [There were] 29 [people] assembled for prayer and Benjamin L. Clapp was leader.
[Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
[Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
180 years ago today - Feb 15, 1846
[Hosea Stout]
Sunday Feb 15th 1846. After regulating the guard I went to Nauvoo as I had been informed that there could not be any waggons procured to carry the public muskets in & I thought that I could make a raise of one. When I landed on the other side of the river I met President Brigham Young just ready to go aboard of his boat to cross over from Nauvoo to the camp[.] He told me to send the rest of the guard over also as soon as possible[.] Accordingly I proceeded to the Temple and sent out orders to the different captains to proceed forthwith accross the river and from thence to Br Noah T Guymans to raise a team there belonging to Robert Johnson[.] After much ado and persuasion he agreed to go & I staid untill he was ready to start and came with him to the Temple and took in about one hundred muskets and while loading them Genl Rich came with a man and a team also for the muskets so I took my load and left him to bring on the rest and then started to the river[.] While going down the hill
west of the
Temple my horse being very unruly broke his bridle bits and I leaped off as soon as possible but not before he was near full speed which threw me heels over head down the hill in the watter & sand but not materially hurt otherwise. I proceeded to the river & crossed over and there found Br. Young just ready to start to the other camp who told me to come on with four or five companies[.] I then set all hands to preparing to move leaving Hunter in charge at the camp till morning. We started about four oclock and over took Brigham at the hill 2 miles from the river about dark[.] His teams could not get up the hill without doubling them[.] He was there at work in the mud assisting the teamsterswe also assisted them up and they went on and we were a long time getting up as all our teams had to be doubled also. It was now some time in the night and very cold and the women & children cold and disagreeable. After getting on the hill we proceeded to camp and found Brigham just
driving to his fire on the
East side of Sugar Creek which we called Kedronwe also encamped west of him also on the East of the brook.
It was about Eleven oclock when we was through and ready for rest[.] After posting our the guard we retired to rest untill morning.
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
Sunday Feb 15th 1846. After regulating the guard I went to Nauvoo as I had been informed that there could not be any waggons procured to carry the public muskets in & I thought that I could make a raise of one. When I landed on the other side of the river I met President Brigham Young just ready to go aboard of his boat to cross over from Nauvoo to the camp[.] He told me to send the rest of the guard over also as soon as possible[.] Accordingly I proceeded to the Temple and sent out orders to the different captains to proceed forthwith accross the river and from thence to Br Noah T Guymans to raise a team there belonging to Robert Johnson[.] After much ado and persuasion he agreed to go & I staid untill he was ready to start and came with him to the Temple and took in about one hundred muskets and while loading them Genl Rich came with a man and a team also for the muskets so I took my load and left him to bring on the rest and then started to the river[.] While going down the hill
west of the
Temple my horse being very unruly broke his bridle bits and I leaped off as soon as possible but not before he was near full speed which threw me heels over head down the hill in the watter & sand but not materially hurt otherwise. I proceeded to the river & crossed over and there found Br. Young just ready to start to the other camp who told me to come on with four or five companies[.] I then set all hands to preparing to move leaving Hunter in charge at the camp till morning. We started about four oclock and over took Brigham at the hill 2 miles from the river about dark[.] His teams could not get up the hill without doubling them[.] He was there at work in the mud assisting the teamsterswe also assisted them up and they went on and we were a long time getting up as all our teams had to be doubled also. It was now some time in the night and very cold and the women & children cold and disagreeable. After getting on the hill we proceeded to camp and found Brigham just
driving to his fire on the
East side of Sugar Creek which we called Kedronwe also encamped west of him also on the East of the brook.
It was about Eleven oclock when we was through and ready for rest[.] After posting our the guard we retired to rest untill morning.
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]
180 years ago today - Feb 15, 1846
Brigham Young, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, leaves Nauvoo for the West, crossing the Mississippi River and traveling nine miles to the camp on Sugar Creek.
180 years ago today - Feb 15, 1846
Young leaves Nauvoo with his family, reaching Sugar Creek, Iowa, in the evening.
[Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 7: Selected Chronology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]
[Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 7: Selected Chronology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47, http://amzn.to/origins-power]
180 years ago today - Feb 15, 1846
Brigham Young and other leaders cross the frozen Mississippi River, leading exodus west.
[Sherry Baker: Mormon Media History Timeline: 1827-2007, http://byustudies.byu.edu/showTitle.aspx?title=7984]
[Sherry Baker: Mormon Media History Timeline: 1827-2007, http://byustudies.byu.edu/showTitle.aspx?title=7984]
180 years ago today - Feb 15, 1846 (Sunday)
Apostles Brigham Young and Willard Richards, with their families, and Apostle Geo. A. Smith crossed the Mississippi river for the West. They traveled nine miles, and camped on Sugar Creek, where Pres. Young spent the following day organizing the camps of the Saints.
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
180 years ago today - Feb 15, 1846
Brigham Young leaves Nauvoo with his family, reaching Sugar Creek, Iowa. in the evening.
180 years ago today - Feb 15, 1846
Brigham Young: Left Nauvoo 15 February 1846.
[Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]
[Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]
180 years ago today - Feb 15, 1846
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff]
15th Sunday The cold is increasing & getting into our cabins. I have now been with my feet wet boots daily soaked with water 23 days without deing near any fire And we are now dailly obliged to go to bed to warm our feet. This is the coldest day we have had. We had a still night And we got a good nights rest.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
15th Sunday The cold is increasing & getting into our cabins. I have now been with my feet wet boots daily soaked with water 23 days without deing near any fire And we are now dailly obliged to go to bed to warm our feet. This is the coldest day we have had. We had a still night And we got a good nights rest.
[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 15, 1841
[Heber C. Kimball]
15. I recieved a leter from my wife baring date December the 30 [1840]. All well but the prospect gloomary [gloomy]. I had much Sorrow before the Lord.
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
15. I recieved a leter from my wife baring date December the 30 [1840]. All well but the prospect gloomary [gloomy]. I had much Sorrow before the Lord.
[Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball]
185 years ago today - Feb 15, 1841
On a mission in England Heber C. Kimball receives a letter from his wife Vilate relaying a message from Joseph Smith "for the Twelve to come immediately home for our personal Safety, as great Judgments are nigh in this land even at the Door." Kimball, Wilford Woodruff and Lorenzo Snow are apostles on missionary assignments to England at this time.
185 years ago today - Feb 15, 1841
Joseph, as chairman of the committee on vending of spirituous liquors, suggests a bill that would prohibit selling whiskey in smaller quantities than a gallon. After a long debate it is passed. Joseph says, "I spoke at great length on the use of liquors, and showed that they were unnecessary, and operate as a poison in the stomach, and that roots and herbs can be found to effect all necessary purposes."
[Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
185 years ago today - Feb 15, 1841
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff]
Feb 15th Elder Kimball received a letter from his wife Dated Nauvoo Dec 30th. She informed us that + Joseph had written for the Twelve to come immediately home for our personal Safety, as great Judgments are nigh in this land even at the Door. ... We feel the forebodeings of the things that are at the door, & spedily await the World. Their is no doubt but what troubles will Soon arise between England & America but may the Lord prepare his Saints for the worst.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
Feb 15th Elder Kimball received a letter from his wife Dated Nauvoo Dec 30th. She informed us that + Joseph had written for the Twelve to come immediately home for our personal Safety, as great Judgments are nigh in this land even at the Door. ... We feel the forebodeings of the things that are at the door, & spedily await the World. Their is no doubt but what troubles will Soon arise between England & America but may the Lord prepare his Saints for the worst.
[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 - Feb 15, 1836
[Wilford Woodruff]
15 Spent the day at Sister Matlock's to attend the sale of her Property after the Death of Deacon Caswell Matlock Who died Dec 24, Aged 27 Yrs.
I Solicited Contributions through the day for the building of the house of the Lord at Kirtland Ohio & Procured $25.00 cts from the honourable men & Saints to be applyed to that purpose. Then rode to Br Crawleys. 10 miles. I also contributed $6 dollars myself for the house of the Lord.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
15 Spent the day at Sister Matlock's to attend the sale of her Property after the Death of Deacon Caswell Matlock Who died Dec 24, Aged 27 Yrs.
I Solicited Contributions through the day for the building of the house of the Lord at Kirtland Ohio & Procured $25.00 cts from the honourable men & Saints to be applyed to that purpose. Then rode to Br Crawleys. 10 miles. I also contributed $6 dollars myself for the house of the Lord.
[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 - Feb 15, 1836
[Joseph Smith]
15th Monday the 15th Attended the Hebrew School at the usual hour. Spent the afternoon in reading Hebrew and receiving and waiting upon visitors. On this day we commenced translating the Hebrew language under the instruction of Professor Seixas. He acknowledg[e]'s that we are the most forward of any class he ever taught the same length of time.
[Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1835-36, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]
15th Monday the 15th Attended the Hebrew School at the usual hour. Spent the afternoon in reading Hebrew and receiving and waiting upon visitors. On this day we commenced translating the Hebrew language under the instruction of Professor Seixas. He acknowledg[e]'s that we are the most forward of any class he ever taught the same length of time.
[Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1835-36, http://amzn.to/jsdiaries]
190 years ago today - Feb 15, 1836
Joseph Smith writes in his diary: "attended the Hebrew School at the usual hour, - spent the afternoon in reading Hebrew, and in receiving and waiting upon visitors - on this day we commenced translating the Hebrew language, under the instruction of professor Seixas, and he acknowled[e]g's that we are the most forward of any class he ever taught, the same length of time."
190 years ago today - Feb 15, 1836
Hebrew school continues translating the Bible from Hebrew. Professor Seixas being absent in the afternoon, Joseph unites in prayer with the other brethren asking that, just as Seixas has been their teacher in Hebrew, they may become his teacher in the gospel, that he might believe the Book of Mormon and be baptized.
[Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
195 years ago today - Feb 15, 1831
Eber D. Howe "A scene of the wildest enthusiasm was exhibited,. . . they would fall, as without strength, roll upon the floor, . . . they exhibited all the apish actions imaginable, making grimaces both horrid and ridiculous.... At other times they are taken with a fit of jabbering that they neither understand themselves nor any body else, and this they call speaking foreign languages by divine inspiration." [Painesville (Ohio) Telegraph, 15 February 1831, 3]
[Dan Vogel and Scott C. Dunn, '"The Tongue of Angels": Glossolalia among Mormonism's Founders,' Journal of Mormon History Vol. 19, No. 2, 1993]
[Dan Vogel and Scott C. Dunn, '"The Tongue of Angels": Glossolalia among Mormonism's Founders,' Journal of Mormon History Vol. 19, No. 2, 1993]
195 years ago today - Feb 15, 1831
Lengthy letter from M. S. C. [Matthew S. Clapp] in the Painesville Telegraph reports early Lamanite missionary efforts in the fall of 1830. They arrived "about the last of October, 1830" from Manchester and Palmyra, New York, bringing a pretended revelation, entitled the "Book of Mormon." They came to the brethern of the reformation in Mentor, saluted them as brethern, and professed to rejoice at finding a people walking according to the scriptures of truth, and acknowledging no other guide. ...
--
[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 - Feb 15, 1831
The Painesville, Ohio TELEGRAPH reports: "He [Sidney Rigdon] then spoke of the supernatural gifts with which he said [Jospeh] Smith was endowed; he said he could translate the scriptures from any language in which they were now extant, and could lay his finger on every interpolation in the sacred writings, adding, that he had proved him in all these things. But my friends knowing that Mr. Rigdon had no knowledge of any language but his own vernacular tongue, asked him how he knew these things, to which Mr. R[igdon] made no direct reply. Mr. Smith arrived at Kirtland the next day; and being examined concerning his supernatural gifts by a scholar, who was capable of testing his knowledge, he confessed he knew nothing of any language, save the king's English. Mr. R[igdon] asserted that our revelation came to us upon human testimony - this we denied, and gave him reasons which he himself formerly urged against DEISTS. He then said the OLD revelation was confirmed by miracles, but the
Book of Mormon would never be; it was not designed to be thus confirmed."
Book of Mormon would never be; it was not designed to be thus confirmed."
195 years ago today - Mid-Feb. 1831
A woman named Hubble and a man named Hawley have been receiving revelations causing confusion among the Saints. In relation to this Joseph receives D&C 43. He also receives D&C 44.
[Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
[Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology]
30 years ago today - Feb 14, 1996
The domain www.lds.org was activated with an “under construction†page. This was the first step in establishing an online presence for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
[History of Church Websites (updated 2016-11-01), Larry Richman]
[History of Church Websites (updated 2016-11-01), Larry Richman]
35 years ago today - Feb 14, 1991
Amy Baird is the president of Brigham Young University's "Student Service Association." In remarks on campus the next day, former U.S. president Ronald Reagan praises the students for electing the first female as the president of BYU's student body.
[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)]]
50 years ago today - February 14, 1976
[Michael Quinn]
When [my wife] Jan picked me up in the evening, she brought the new issue of BYU Studies with my 47 page [LDS presidential] succession article in it. I literally have prayed that article into print, and feel such relief in seeing it. October 13 [At the conclusion of Quinn¿s session at the Western History Association¿s annual meeting:]
I plead[ed] guilty to ¿overproving¿ (as he [Larry Foster] criticized), but said that I was reacting to the simplistic generalizations and support that have characterized Mormon historiography in the main. I also acknowledged that I spoke first to a Mormon audience[,] because I felt that it was important for Mormons to see their history as process rather than as a series of discrete ¿deus ex machina¿ experiences. But I said that I also felt an obligation and desire to speak to the audience of non-Mormon scholars about a movement that I feel has had profound social-historical influence.
[From the diaries and memoirs of D. Michael Quinn, in 'On Writing Mormon History, 1972-95,' edited by Joseph Geisner, Signature Books, 2020]
When [my wife] Jan picked me up in the evening, she brought the new issue of BYU Studies with my 47 page [LDS presidential] succession article in it. I literally have prayed that article into print, and feel such relief in seeing it. October 13 [At the conclusion of Quinn¿s session at the Western History Association¿s annual meeting:]
I plead[ed] guilty to ¿overproving¿ (as he [Larry Foster] criticized), but said that I was reacting to the simplistic generalizations and support that have characterized Mormon historiography in the main. I also acknowledged that I spoke first to a Mormon audience[,] because I felt that it was important for Mormons to see their history as process rather than as a series of discrete ¿deus ex machina¿ experiences. But I said that I also felt an obligation and desire to speak to the audience of non-Mormon scholars about a movement that I feel has had profound social-historical influence.
[From the diaries and memoirs of D. Michael Quinn, in 'On Writing Mormon History, 1972-95,' edited by Joseph Geisner, Signature Books, 2020]
115 years ago today - Feb 14, 1911
To counter accusations that his teaching of evolution will destroy faith, embattled BYU professor William Chamberlin publishes "The Theory of Evolution as an Aid in Faith in God and Belief in the Resurrection" in the BYU campus paper WHITE AND BLUE. He is dismissed anyway
120 years ago today - Feb 14, 1906
Probable date of the first plural marriage performed without claiming authority from the current First Presidency. Second and third such marriages are on 13-14 June 1906. This is the early stage of what became the Mormon Fundamentalist movement.
[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)]]
125 years ago today - Feb 14, 1901
[William H. Smart]
Apostle Woodruff invited me in to see Pres. Lorenzo Snow. He received me at his desk in the most cordial and brotherly and even friendly manner. ... Be careful in reccommending saints for their second washings and annointings. I alone am responsible for this and not the bishops. They should be men who are living their religion not too young not to have been placed in circumstances to try their faith; past lives should have been without unredeemable sin. As a rule should be men active in the Lords service or else aged men who have been but who are now retired. He ask if I had received mine and when I answered 'no' he instructed his sec'y Geo. Gibbs to make me a reccommend to the temple for the same. Said they are helps and safeguards to the worthy, and that after receiving mine I should better understand who to reccommend. Here is another grave responsibility for my wife and I to carry. I felt almost overcome with emotion as I contemplated the mercy of God as shown in this in His
forgiveness of sins.
[William H. Smart, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
Apostle Woodruff invited me in to see Pres. Lorenzo Snow. He received me at his desk in the most cordial and brotherly and even friendly manner. ... Be careful in reccommending saints for their second washings and annointings. I alone am responsible for this and not the bishops. They should be men who are living their religion not too young not to have been placed in circumstances to try their faith; past lives should have been without unredeemable sin. As a rule should be men active in the Lords service or else aged men who have been but who are now retired. He ask if I had received mine and when I answered 'no' he instructed his sec'y Geo. Gibbs to make me a reccommend to the temple for the same. Said they are helps and safeguards to the worthy, and that after receiving mine I should better understand who to reccommend. Here is another grave responsibility for my wife and I to carry. I felt almost overcome with emotion as I contemplated the mercy of God as shown in this in His
forgiveness of sins.
[William H. Smart, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
125 years ago today - Feb 14, 1901
At a meeting of the Twelve in the Salt Lake Temple "Bro. H[eber} J. Grant talked against vac[c]ination." At 11 a.m. the first presidency joins them and Heber J Grant "was selected to go to Japan on a Mission."
130 years ago today - Feb 14, 1896
[Apostle Brigham Young Jr.]
[In company of H. J. Grant] Our conversation during the entire day was of the most interesting character. He said I & [Francis M.] Lyman & Jno. H[enry] S[mith] have decided in our own minds that Jos[eph] F. S[mith] should be placed ahead of you in the Quorum. He thinks that, tho' a man may be ordained an apostle he takes rank when he comes into the Quorum. My answer was I am willing to be anything or stand anywhere, I never did think I was good enough to be an apostle. I brought my position--where he had place me--before father for I was sure some of the Twelve were dissatisfied about it. He said "It is just right as it is."
[Diary of Apostle Brigham Young Jr., http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[In company of H. J. Grant] Our conversation during the entire day was of the most interesting character. He said I & [Francis M.] Lyman & Jno. H[enry] S[mith] have decided in our own minds that Jos[eph] F. S[mith] should be placed ahead of you in the Quorum. He thinks that, tho' a man may be ordained an apostle he takes rank when he comes into the Quorum. My answer was I am willing to be anything or stand anywhere, I never did think I was good enough to be an apostle. I brought my position--where he had place me--before father for I was sure some of the Twelve were dissatisfied about it. He said "It is just right as it is."
[Diary of Apostle Brigham Young Jr., http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
140 years ago today - Feb 14, 1886
The Quorum of Twelve and First Presidency counselors meet "and we decided to get rid of the Church property." Church property was put into newly-formed corporations to avoid seizure by the federal government. First Counselor George Q. Cannon is arrested for polygamy in Nevada. He is injured when he tries to escape by jumping from the train transporting him back to Utah.
165 years ago today - Feb 14, 1861
[Wilford Woodruff]
14 We left Brother Snow & rode about 2 miles from Brigham City and met with some of the leaders of the welsh at the House of Brother Philips, who had been Cut off from the Church for apostacy & was drawing away some seventy five families from the faith more or less. Brother Philips was a Presiding Elder in wales & had great influence over that Body of people. After ariving in this Country He lost the spirit of the Lord found much fault with the authorities of the Church & for a long time had been in a Bad State of mind & was preparing to return to the States. They attended our meeting yesterday and got there minds stired up & wished to see us. We found six of the leaders of the welsh Saints Present.
Elder John Taylor ... exhorted them to go & be baptized for the remission of their sins & keep the Commandments of God. ...
We then went down to a pool of water & Elder Taylor Baptized seven persons 6 men & 1 woman....
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
14 We left Brother Snow & rode about 2 miles from Brigham City and met with some of the leaders of the welsh at the House of Brother Philips, who had been Cut off from the Church for apostacy & was drawing away some seventy five families from the faith more or less. Brother Philips was a Presiding Elder in wales & had great influence over that Body of people. After ariving in this Country He lost the spirit of the Lord found much fault with the authorities of the Church & for a long time had been in a Bad State of mind & was preparing to return to the States. They attended our meeting yesterday and got there minds stired up & wished to see us. We found six of the leaders of the welsh Saints Present.
Elder John Taylor ... exhorted them to go & be baptized for the remission of their sins & keep the Commandments of God. ...
We then went down to a pool of water & Elder Taylor Baptized seven persons 6 men & 1 woman....
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
195 years ago today - Feb 14, 1831
[A "Painesville correspondent informs us" that the missionaries in Kirtland] proclaimed that there had been no religion in the world for 1500 years,--that no one had been authorized to preach and teach for that period,--that Joseph Smith had now received a commission from God for that purpose, and that all such as did not submit to his authority would speedily be destroyed. The world (except the New Jerusalem) would come to an end in two or three years. The state of New York would (probably) be sunk: Smith (they affirmed) had seen God frequently and personally--Cowdery and his friends had frequent interviews with angels. ... Smith was continually receiving new revelations, and it would probably take him 1000 years to complete them--commissions and papers were exhibited, said to be signed by Christ himself!!! ... The converts are forming "common stock" families, as most pleasing in the sight of God. They pretend to give the "Holy Spirit" and under its operations they fall upon the
floor --see visions, &c. Indians followed Cowdery daily, and finally saw him enter the promised land, where he placed a pole in the ground, with a light on its top, to designate the site of the New Jerusalem.
[Kenney, Scott, Saints Without Halos, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://web.archive.org/web/20120805163534/saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml]
floor --see visions, &c. Indians followed Cowdery daily, and finally saw him enter the promised land, where he placed a pole in the ground, with a light on its top, to designate the site of the New Jerusalem.
[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 - Feb 14, 1831 (Monday)
A woman, who pretended to receive commandments, laws and other "curious matters," visited Joseph Smith, jun., who inquired of the Lord and received a revelation in which God said that none but Joseph would be appointed to receive revelations and commandments, as long as he lived and remained faithful. (Doc. and Cov., Sec. 43.)
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
40 years ago today - Feb 13, 1986
Conservative members of the Utah legislature in 1986 refused to allow the state to call this national holiday by Martin Luther King's name. The state of Utah uses the name "Human Rights Day" instead of Martin Luther King Day.
[For the difficult passage and renaming of Martin Luther King day in Utah, see Deseret News, 14 Oct. 1985, A-2,13 Feb. 1986, A-l; Salt Lake Tribune, 14 Feb. 1986, A-l, 28 Feb. 1986, A-5,18 Mar. 1986, B-l. For the Utah legislature's continued disrespect toward the national King holiday, see "Martin Luther King Holiday or Not, Utah Lawmakers Convene Today," Salt Lake Tribune, 18 Jan. 1993, B-l; also companion article "Utah's Mix of Church and State: Theocratic or Just Homogenized?" Salt Lake Tribune, 18 Jan. 1993, B-2. 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.]
[For the difficult passage and renaming of Martin Luther King day in Utah, see Deseret News, 14 Oct. 1985, A-2,13 Feb. 1986, A-l; Salt Lake Tribune, 14 Feb. 1986, A-l, 28 Feb. 1986, A-5,18 Mar. 1986, B-l. For the Utah legislature's continued disrespect toward the national King holiday, see "Martin Luther King Holiday or Not, Utah Lawmakers Convene Today," Salt Lake Tribune, 18 Jan. 1993, B-l; also companion article "Utah's Mix of Church and State: Theocratic or Just Homogenized?" Salt Lake Tribune, 18 Jan. 1993, B-2. 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 - Feb 13, 1951
At seven-thirty in meeting with the missionary committee. Because of the opposition raised by enemies and due to conditions which we cannot control we have agreed not to call missionaries of draft age. The leaders in Washington have gone into histerics and the army officials are in control. The war goes on in Korea and all young men under 26 and over 18 are subject to the draft, with threatening clouds indication that the boys 18 years of age will soon be called.
[Joseph Fielding Smith, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
[Joseph Fielding Smith, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
130 years ago today - Feb 13, 1896
[J. Golden Kimball]
Bro[ther] Snow in a very kind manner explained the object of above meeting. said that Elder Roberts had made statements in public gatherings and had taken positions in political matters that the Apostles felt it their duty to investigate, that this was not to be considered a trial but a [illegible] of investigation. He said considerable in way of explanation, but manifested a very kind spirit. Apostle Brigham Young then read short synopsis from Herald of speeches delivered by B. H. Roberts during the political campaign of 1895 and commented upon them from his stand point. Also called attention to an interview with reporter of Herald, after the Priesthood meeting, held at October conference, and statements made by Elder Roberts. Also course taken at the convention regarding woman sufferage, &c. Bro[ther] Young spoke at some length. Apostle F[rancis]. M. Lyman, then spoke exceedingly plain, and I thought very severely, upon the influence used amongst the people against the Brethrern
of the Authorities in putting them to shame, and that Elder Roberts had done an almost irreparable injury. Called him to repentance. Elder Roberts then spoke upon each point brought against him and explaining why he said it, and the causes of his going into the political arena, and his fight in the convention and against woman suffrage. He was sorry that the bretheren took the view of his course that they did yet he had no regrets for what he had said and no apologies to make and if he continued he would justify his course. Each of the apostles and Seventies present spoke and each one present stated why they could not sustain Bro[ther] Roberts in the course persued and advised that he fall into line. Elder Roberts again spoke, but said he could not change his views, but would resign his place among the seventies if they desired, and fall back into the ranks. He thought he had climbed his little hill, and performed all there was for him to do in this direction. Apostle Lyman, Grant,
Seymour B. Young and others wept and cried like children, and begged and pled, but of no avail. Apostle Snow again spoke as I never heard him speak before. Apostle Lyman begged for more time to be given. It was so moved and voted for unanimously. The meeting was dismissed and Elder Roberts left at once. During the meeting he shed no tears, neither did he humble himself, but sat there like he was of stone. I have never witnessed, neither do I ever desire to again, the weighing of so great a man in the balances. For Roberts is a noble spirit, intel[l]igent, brave, vali[a]nt, and true, yet on this question he is in darkness. I pray God that his heart may be softened, and the time speedily come when he can see his mistake and continue his great work.
[J. Golden Kimball, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
Bro[ther] Snow in a very kind manner explained the object of above meeting. said that Elder Roberts had made statements in public gatherings and had taken positions in political matters that the Apostles felt it their duty to investigate, that this was not to be considered a trial but a [illegible] of investigation. He said considerable in way of explanation, but manifested a very kind spirit. Apostle Brigham Young then read short synopsis from Herald of speeches delivered by B. H. Roberts during the political campaign of 1895 and commented upon them from his stand point. Also called attention to an interview with reporter of Herald, after the Priesthood meeting, held at October conference, and statements made by Elder Roberts. Also course taken at the convention regarding woman sufferage, &c. Bro[ther] Young spoke at some length. Apostle F[rancis]. M. Lyman, then spoke exceedingly plain, and I thought very severely, upon the influence used amongst the people against the Brethrern
of the Authorities in putting them to shame, and that Elder Roberts had done an almost irreparable injury. Called him to repentance. Elder Roberts then spoke upon each point brought against him and explaining why he said it, and the causes of his going into the political arena, and his fight in the convention and against woman suffrage. He was sorry that the bretheren took the view of his course that they did yet he had no regrets for what he had said and no apologies to make and if he continued he would justify his course. Each of the apostles and Seventies present spoke and each one present stated why they could not sustain Bro[ther] Roberts in the course persued and advised that he fall into line. Elder Roberts again spoke, but said he could not change his views, but would resign his place among the seventies if they desired, and fall back into the ranks. He thought he had climbed his little hill, and performed all there was for him to do in this direction. Apostle Lyman, Grant,
Seymour B. Young and others wept and cried like children, and begged and pled, but of no avail. Apostle Snow again spoke as I never heard him speak before. Apostle Lyman begged for more time to be given. It was so moved and voted for unanimously. The meeting was dismissed and Elder Roberts left at once. During the meeting he shed no tears, neither did he humble himself, but sat there like he was of stone. I have never witnessed, neither do I ever desire to again, the weighing of so great a man in the balances. For Roberts is a noble spirit, intel[l]igent, brave, vali[a]nt, and true, yet on this question he is in darkness. I pray God that his heart may be softened, and the time speedily come when he can see his mistake and continue his great work.
[J. Golden Kimball, Diary, as quoted in Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1951, Electronic Edition, 2015]
130 years ago today - Feb 13, 1896
Apostle Heber J. Grant writes in his diary: "attended a meeting of the apostles in the Temple. . . . The object of the meeting of the apostles and the Presidents of The Seventies was to learn from Brother B.H. Roberts as to his position on a number of matters of importance, and to ask him with reference to some of his public remarks which were felt were not in keeping with what should be said by a leading Church official. Our meeting lasted until 7:45 and was the most painful meeting of my life as Brother Roberts refused to harmonize with his brethren and seemed willing sooner than to bow to the wishes of his brethren to have his position taken away from him I was unable to speak when I first got on my feet on account of the emotions which chocked me in thinking of the position that Brother Roberts was in. Apostles Lyman, Young and others of the brethren were moved to tears. Brother Roberts was firm in his position and none of us seemed to be able in the slightest degree to move
him. He felt that he had acted in all fairness and honesty and had nothing what ever to take back. . . . I have felt more like death in the meeting today than at any funeral I have ever attended. feel that unless brother Roberts shall see the error of his way that his soul is lost and this is eternal death, which in comparison to simply passing to our eternal reward by passing from this life to the next is nothing." Roberts had balked at a rule requiring all general authorities to get permission from the First Presidency before engaging in political activities. Roberts, a democrat, felt that this allowed the First Presidency to favor one party over another by allowing Republican general authorities to run for office while forbidding democrats.
him. He felt that he had acted in all fairness and honesty and had nothing what ever to take back. . . . I have felt more like death in the meeting today than at any funeral I have ever attended. feel that unless brother Roberts shall see the error of his way that his soul is lost and this is eternal death, which in comparison to simply passing to our eternal reward by passing from this life to the next is nothing." Roberts had balked at a rule requiring all general authorities to get permission from the First Presidency before engaging in political activities. Roberts, a democrat, felt that this allowed the First Presidency to favor one party over another by allowing Republican general authorities to run for office while forbidding democrats.
155 years ago today - Feb 13, 1871
Federal Justice James B. McKean writes to President Ulysses S. Grant: "For near twenty years the Mormon leaders packed the Grand and Petit juries of the United States Courts with their tools and instruments. But within a few months past we have decided against this system . . . to recognize only the U.S. Attorney and the U.S. Marshal as the proper officers of our courts. One of the consequences is that we have already indicted for capital offenses ten or twelve Mormons-some of them bishops and other influential men in the Mormon establishment."
165 years ago today - Feb 13, 1861
.... Among the Number was Isaac Laney who bore a strong testimony of the work of the Lord. He spoke of his being Shot at Hawns Mill with some 17 Ball Holes in his body many of them apparently the most deadly shots as History declares yet he was preserved. He had a dream the night before it took place as follows:
+ He dreamed that a shower of serpents was all around him in the air rattle snakes & that many of them bit him all over his body but he was told that if he would not fall down but keep running that they would not hurt him. After he was bit a man Came to him & said Brother Laney do not decieve yourself about living. No man ever bit as you are Can ever live. But he said I shall live & not die.
Brother Laney testified that when he was shot this dream was fulfilled. When. the Balls peareed his body through & through it did not hurt him more than the scrach of a pin allthough He bled at the mouth like an ox with his throat Cut yet he kept running untill he was out of the reach of the mob. A man Came to him & said Brother Laney do not decieve yourself about living. No man was Ever Shot as you are who ever lived. But He said I shall live & not die & he did live by the power of God & is now Harty & well & he said I had another Dream two years ago which will be fulfilled as Follows:
"I dreamed I was at Camp Floyd after the Armey of the US had Camped there & I saw a large frame building with all the Clapboards off & I saw a huge serpent stretched across the building about 100 feet long with his head to the East. He looked terrible viscious & dangerous. He soon rose in the air & flew towards the East. While in the air he appeared to be 500 feet long with 75 feet of rattles. Soon he fell all to peaces every Joint in his body separated from his head to his tail. The interpetation is the U.S. Government & Army will all break to peaces as they are now doing.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
+ He dreamed that a shower of serpents was all around him in the air rattle snakes & that many of them bit him all over his body but he was told that if he would not fall down but keep running that they would not hurt him. After he was bit a man Came to him & said Brother Laney do not decieve yourself about living. No man ever bit as you are Can ever live. But he said I shall live & not die.
Brother Laney testified that when he was shot this dream was fulfilled. When. the Balls peareed his body through & through it did not hurt him more than the scrach of a pin allthough He bled at the mouth like an ox with his throat Cut yet he kept running untill he was out of the reach of the mob. A man Came to him & said Brother Laney do not decieve yourself about living. No man was Ever Shot as you are who ever lived. But He said I shall live & not die & he did live by the power of God & is now Harty & well & he said I had another Dream two years ago which will be fulfilled as Follows:
"I dreamed I was at Camp Floyd after the Armey of the US had Camped there & I saw a large frame building with all the Clapboards off & I saw a huge serpent stretched across the building about 100 feet long with his head to the East. He looked terrible viscious & dangerous. He soon rose in the air & flew towards the East. While in the air he appeared to be 500 feet long with 75 feet of rattles. Soon he fell all to peaces every Joint in his body separated from his head to his tail. The interpetation is the U.S. Government & Army will all break to peaces as they are now doing.
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
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