The Fullness of Time Scripture and Latter-day Saint history
History, 1838 to 1846

Missouri and Nauvoo

The hardest nine years. An extermination order empties Missouri, and the Saints build a city out of swampland on a bend in the Mississippi. Nauvoo grows to rival Chicago, the Relief Society is organised, temple ordinances are given, and then Joseph and Hyrum Smith are killed at Carthage and the city is abandoned.

1,461 entries in this era, shown 200 to a page. This is page 1 of 8, covering 1838 to 1838. See the same material on the moving timeline.

1838

[A "Painesville correspondent informs us" that the missionaries in Kirtland] proclaimed that there

1838 BoM Translation

[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—Cowderyand his friends had frequent interviews with angels. From 1 to 200 (whites) had already been in the water, and showed great zeal in this newreligion— many were converted before they saw the book. 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!!! Cowdery authorized three persons to preach, &c., and descended the Ohio River. 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.

1838 edition titled Church Hymn Book

1838 Hymns

This edition was created in East?, USA and was compiled by Benjamin C Ellsworth. There were 114 Hymns in this edition. At the time it was the only edition.

A Missourian writes: "There is still

1838 LDS History

A Missourian writes: "There is still a good deal of excitement with the people of Carrol & Davis Counties, and the Mormons of Caldwell City. there are strong aprehensions also of hostilities by the Indians from the cherokees having built a large council house and inviting all the other tribes, and holding secret consultations, it is generally thought that we shall have war with the Mormons & Indians both, meetings have been held in adopting measures upon the Mormon subject."

A scuffle at the polls at Gallatin

1838 LDS History

A scuffle at the polls at Gallatin, Daviess County, Mo., intensified the mounting tension between Latter-day Saints and other area settlers.

About 500 Saints departed Kirtland, arriving in Far West on October 2

1838 Doctrine & Covenants

About 500 Saints departed Kirtland, arriving in Far West on October 2.

D&C Historical Resources ↗

Acting upon false reports of rebellion

1838 LDS History

Acting upon false reports of rebellion among the Mormons, Gov. Lilburn W. Boggs issued an order to exterminate or expel the Saints from Missouri.

Adam-ondi-Ahman Temple*

1838 Temples

This is a temple of the restoration and was dedicated by Orson Hyde

Read the source ↗

Affidavits Criticizing Saints' Actions

1838 LDS History

Affidavits Criticizing Saints' Actions

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

Albert P. Rockwood writes, "the Mob

1838 LDS History

Albert P. Rockwood writes, "the Mob disperse by hundreds on the approach of the Danites (Brethren)."

And it came to pass

1838 BoM Translation

And it came to pass in the latter days, that wickedness did much abound, and the "Idle and slothful said one to another, let us send for Walters the Magician, who has strange books, and deals with familiar spirits; peradventure he will inform us where the Nephites, hid their treasure, so be it, that we and our vagabond van, do not perish for lack of sustenance. …

Appointment of Church Historians and Clerks

1838 LDS History

Appointment of Church Historians and Clerks

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

Approval for Purchase of George M. Hinkle's Residence

1838 LDS History

Approval for Purchase of George M. Hinkle's Residence

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

Area of Daviess County Designated as New City of Zion

1838 LDS History

Area of Daviess County Designated as New City of Zion

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

At Kirtland the High Council unanimously

1838 LDS History

At Kirtland the High Council unanimously passes the following resolutions: "1st. That the First Presidency shall have their expenses defrayed in going to and from Adam-ondi-Ahman, equally by the bishop of each place. 2nd. That all the travelling expenses of the First Presidency shall be defrayed. 3rd. That the bishop be authorized to pay orders coming from the East, inasmuch as they will consecrate liberally, but this is to be done under the inspection of the First Presidency. 4th. That the First Presidency shall have the prerogative to say to the bishop, whose orders shall or may be paid by him in this place, or in his jurisdiction."

At McIlwaine's Bend on the Missouri

1838 BoM Translation

At McIlwaine's Bend on the Missouri river (40 miles above Chariton), W. W. Phelps has a daytime vision of "the Destroyer" riding on the waters.

Brigham Young History

1838 Prophets

Moved to Far West, Missouri; served mission to southern Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, and Ohio.

Camp splits into small groups and are taken in by brethren living

1838 BoM Translation

Camp splits into small groups and are taken in by brethren living in the area.

Church Members' Appearance for Preliminary Hearings

1838 LDS History

Church Members' Appearance for Preliminary Hearings

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

Clay county citizens formally request the Mormons to leave the area

1838 BoM Translation

Clay county citizens formally request the Mormons to leave the area.

Cleveland Herald and Gazette: … we

1838 BoM Translation

[Cleveland Herald and Gazette:] we look upon the whole [Safety Society scheme] as a most reprehensible fraud on the public, and cannot conceal our surprise that they should circulate at all. …We do not object to private or company banking, as a system, provided it is done upon a system made safe, but we consider this whole affair a deception, that there is still in force a section of the statute affixing a penalty of $1,000 to the issuing or passing unauthorized Bank paper like the present. It is a kind of radicalism that would flourish better in Michigan than Ohio.

Conference continues: Committee of six is authorized to raise funds in the branches so

1838 BoM Translation

Conference continues: Committee of six is authorized to raise funds in the branches so Joseph and Sidney can continue work on the Bible. David Whitmer and Reynolds Cahoon are appointed; Simeon Carter, Orson Hyde, Hyrum Smith, and Emer Harris called later.

Conference in Jackson county

1838 BoM Translation

Conference in Jackson county. Obedience urged. Ziba Peterson confesses, is forgiven.

Conference in Quincy. Teams and $50

1838 BoM Translation

Conference in Quincy. Teams and $50 are raised to move families from Far West to Quincy. Thomas B. Marsh (h), Sampson Avard, John Corrill, W. W. Phelps, Burr Riggs, and others are excommunicated.

Conference Kirtland: Ordained to the High

1838 BoM Translation

Conference (Kirtland): Ordained to the High Priesthod by Joseph Smith. Has a vision of the Father and the Son, prophesies that the Second Coming will occur in this generation, some will be martyred. Ordains Joseph Jr., Joseph Sr., Sidney Rigdon, and fourteen others to the High Priesthood.

Council of elders at Westfield, New York

1838 BoM Translation

Council of elders at Westfield, New York excommunicates Elder James Higby for circulating false reports.

D&C 101 Kirtland: The Lord's sword will

1838 BoM Translation

D&C 101 (Kirtland): The Lord's sword will fall in behalf of his people. The people are not to sell their property in Jackson.

Read the source ↗

D&C 108 gives the will of the Lord for Lyman Sherman

1838 BoM Translation

D&C 108 gives the will of the Lord for Lyman Sherman. He will be one of "the first of mine elders" and be called on a mission.

D&C 113, answers on Isaiah's writings, was given at or near Far West, Missouri

1838 Doctrine & Covenants

D&C 113, answers on Isaiah's writings, was given at or near Far West, Missouri.

D&C Historical Resources ↗

D&C 114 was revealed to Joseph Smith at Far West, Missouri

1838 Doctrine & Covenants

D&C 114 was revealed to Joseph Smith at Far West, Missouri.

D&C Historical Resources ↗

D&C 115 was revealed at Far West, establishing the Church's formal name

1838 Doctrine & Covenants

D&C 115 was revealed at Far West, establishing the Church's formal name.

D&C Historical Resources ↗

D&C 116 was revealed near Spring Hill, identifying Adam-ondi-Ahman

1838 Doctrine & Covenants

D&C 116 was revealed near Spring Hill, identifying Adam-ondi-Ahman.

D&C Historical Resources ↗

D&C 117, 118, 119, and 120 were revealed at Far West, Missouri

1838 Doctrine & Covenants

D&C 117, 118, 119, and 120 were revealed at Far West, Missouri.

D&C Historical Resources ↗

D&C 118 Far West: John Taylor, John E.

1838 BoM Translation

D&C 118 (Far West): John Taylor, John E. Page, Wilford Woodruff, Willard Richards (h) to replace apostles John F. Boynton (h), Luke and Lyman Johnson, and William E. McLellin, who had been excommunicated in 1837. The Twelve are to depart for England on April 26, 1839 from the temple site.

D&C 34 (Fayette): Orson Pratt (h2) to preach

1838 BoM Translation

D&C 34 (Fayette): Orson Pratt (h2) to preach, for "the time is soon at hand, that I shall come in a cloud with power and great glory;" calamities near.

D&C 41 (Kirtland): Edward Partridge called as bishop

1838 BoM Translation

D&C 41 (Kirtland): Edward Partridge called as bishop. Ordained by Sidney Rigdon.

D&C 43 Kirtland: Only Joseph to receive

1838 BoM Translation

D&C 43 (Kirtland): Only Joseph to receive revelations as long as he lives and remains faithful, only he can appoint a successor if he falls.

D&C 47: (Kirtland) John Whitmer to "keep a regular history" and assist Joseph "translating

1838 BoM Translation

D&C 47: (Kirtland) John Whitmer to "keep a regular history" and assist Joseph "translating all things."

D&C 48 (Kirtland): Stay in Kirtland for now

1838 BoM Translation

D&C 48 (Kirtland): Stay in Kirtland for now, share land to share with new arrivals, save to buy land for new city.

D&C 51 Thompson, Ohio: Instructions to Edward

1838 BoM Translation

D&C 51 (Thompson, Ohio): Instructions to Edward Partridge on organizing the Colesville Branch, which had settled on Leman Copley's farm in Thompson; consecration and stewardship. Not included in Book of Commandments.

D&C 54: Colesville church to move from Leman Copley's

1838 BoM Translation

D&C 54: Colesville church to move from Leman Copley's land in Kirtland to Missouri under Newel Knight.

Read the source ↗

D&C 69 Hiram: Oliver Cowdery and John

1838 BoM Translation

D&C 69 (Hiram): Oliver Cowdery and John Whitmer to carry revelations and funds to Zion.

Read the source ↗

D&C 81 Hiram: Jesse Gause is called

1838 BoM Translation

D&C 81 (Hiram): Jesse Gause is called to be a high priest and counselor to Joseph Smith in presidency of the High Priesthood, which holds the keys of the kingdom.

D&C 86 Kirtland: Parable of the apostasy

1838 BoM Translation

D&C 86 (Kirtland): Parable of the apostasy. The Lord is sending out the word now and blades begin sprout. Angels want to harvest but the Lord restrains them until the harvest is fully ready. The priesthood came down through history in the Prophet's ancestors, hidden from the world. Joseph is to restore all and be a savior to the world.

D&C 93 Kirtland: keep commandments, see God;

1838 BoM Translation

D&C 93 (Kirtland): keep commandments, see God; apostle John's record to be revealed; Godhead; preexistence, man in the begining with God, intelligence, light, truth; Joseph not keeping commandments, family must repent; translate scriptures, obtain (secular) knowledge and the laws of God for salvation of Zion.

Daughters of Zion are organized in Far West

1838 BoM Translation

Daughters of Zion are organized in Far West.

David Whitmer and Lyman Johnson Excommunicated

1838 LDS History

David Whitmer and Lyman Johnson Excommunicated

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

David Whitmer leaves Missouri for Kirtland

1838 BoM Translation

David Whitmer leaves Missouri for Kirtland.

Demand for John Whitmer's Church History

1838 LDS History

Demand for John Whitmer's Church History

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

Dispatched from New York in accordance

1838 BoM Translation

Dispatched from New York in accordance with a now-unknown revelation, John Whitmer arrives in Kirtland with the newly revealed book of Moses and other revelations designating Kirtland as the eastern edge of the land of Zion—which extends to the Pacific Ocean—and directing the Saints not to sell their lands, but rather to purchase as much as they can.

Doctrine & Covenants Section 113 was given to Joseph Smith (answers to questions) in matters

1838 LDS History

Doctrine & Covenants Section 113 was given to Joseph Smith (answers to questions) in matters relating to Answers to questions on the Book of Isaiah provided by Joseph Smith

Read the source ↗

Doctrine & Covenants Section 114 was given to Joseph Smith in matters relating

1838 LDS History

Doctrine & Covenants Section 114 was given to Joseph Smith in matters relating to concerning David W. Patten

Read the source ↗

Doctrine & Covenants Section 115 was given to Joseph Smith in matters relating

1838 LDS History

Doctrine & Covenants Section 115 was given to Joseph Smith in matters relating to the name of the church; stakes; temple to be built at Far West, Missouri

Read the source ↗

Doctrine & Covenants Section 116 was given to Joseph Smith in matters relating

1838 LDS History

Doctrine & Covenants Section 116 was given to Joseph Smith in matters relating to Adam-ondi-Ahman

Read the source ↗

Doctrine & Covenants Section 117 was given to Joseph Smith in matters relating

1838 LDS History

Doctrine & Covenants Section 117 was given to Joseph Smith in matters relating to concerning William Marks, Newel K. Whitney and Oliver Granger; property; sacrifice

Read the source ↗

Doctrine & Covenants Section 118 was given to Joseph Smith in matters relating

1838 LDS History

Doctrine & Covenants Section 118 was given to Joseph Smith in matters relating to vacancies in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles filled

Read the source ↗

Doctrine & Covenants Section 119 was given to Joseph Smith in matters relating

1838 LDS History

Doctrine & Covenants Section 119 was given to Joseph Smith in matters relating to tithing

Read the source ↗

Doctrine & Covenants Section 120 was given to Joseph Smith in matters relating

1838 LDS History

Doctrine & Covenants Section 120 was given to Joseph Smith in matters relating to Council on the Disposition of the Tithes

Read the source ↗

Driven from Missouri

27 October 1838 Far West and Liberty, Missouri Pioneers

Governor Boggs orders the Saints expelled from the state. Joseph spends the winter in Liberty Jail while roughly ten thousand members cross the Mississippi into Illinois.

Elders' Journal ceases publication at Far West, Missouri

1838 LDS History

Elders' Journal ceases publication at Far West, Missouri.

BYU Media History ↗

Eliza R. Snow is baptized

1838 BoM Translation

Eliza R. Snow is baptized.

Emma gives birth to Joseph III.

1838 BoM Translation

Emma gives birth to Joseph III.

Entry in the "Scriptory Book of Joseph Smith:" "In the name of Jesus Christ

1838 LDS History

Entry in the "Scriptory Book of Joseph Smith:" "In the name of Jesus Christ the Son of the Living God we will endure persecution no longer. . . . Our rights and our liberties shall not be taken from us, and we peacably submit to it as we have done heretofore, but we will avenge ourselves of our enemies, inasmuch as they will not let us alone."

Ezra Booth letters #8 and #9

1838 BoM Translation

Ezra Booth letters #8 and #9 are published: (8) Book of Mormon claims Indians part of House of Israel and New Jerusalem to be built among them. Oliver to preach to them. Text of D&C 28. Joseph's exclusive prerogatives to give written commandments, name successor. Oliver's aspirations, may declare oral revelations, assigned to put down Hiram Page. Kirtland prophetess popular with some, including Sydney; put down by Joseph. (9) Lamanite missionaries visit Sidney, who gets vision confirming Mormonism. He claims many visions, most ignore them. Oliver's reputation tarnished by proposing marriage to two women at the same time. Indians at Sandusky not interested. Went to Missouri but lacked commitment to get and use required documentation. Instead plan is to use storehouse license to visit Indians, also to marry Indian women.

Far West Temple*

1838 Temples

This is a temple site was dedicated by Brigham Young

Read the source ↗

First Counselor Sidney Rigdon preaches his "Salt Sermon" as a warning against dissenters

1838 LDS History

First Counselor Sidney Rigdon preaches his "Salt Sermon" as a warning against dissenters at Far West. Quoting the fifth chapter of Matthew ("Ye are the salt of the earth. If the salt has lost its savor, it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out and trodden under the feet of men." Matt 5:13) he explains when men embrace the gospel and afterward lose their faith, it is the duty of the Saints to trample them under their feet and calls on the people to rise en masse and rid the country of such a nuisance. Rigdon explains, "when a county, or body of people have individuals among them with whom they do not wish to associate and a public expression is taken against their remaining among them and such individuals do not remove, it is the principle of republicanism itself that gives that community a right to expel them forcibly and no law will prevent it."

First page of the first issue

1838 BoM Translation

First page of the first issue of the Evening and Morning Star contains the Articles and Covenants of the Church of Christ (D&C 20). A Prophecy Given to the Church of Christ, March 7, 1831 (D&C 45) is also included in the issue.

For a long time in the vicinity of Palmyra

1838 BoM Translation

For a long time in the vicinity of Palmyra, there has existed an impression, especially among certain loose classes of society, that treasures of great amount were concealed near the surface of the earth, probably by the Indians, whom they were taught to consider the descendants of the ten lost Israelitish tribes, by the celebrated Jew who a few years since promised to gather Abraham's sons on Grand Island, thus to be made a Paradise. The ignorance and superstition of these fanatics soon conjured up a ghost, who they said was often seen and to whom was committed the care of the precious deposit. One Joseph Smith, a perfect ignoramus, is to be a great prophet of the Lord, the fabled ghost the angel of his presence, a few of the accomplices the apostles or witnesses of the imposition, and, to fill up the measure of their wickedness and the absurdity of their proceedings, the hidden golden treasure, is to be a gold bible and a new revelation.

General Assembly approves publication of D&C, including

1838 BoM Translation

General Assembly approves publication of D&C, including the Lectures on Faith and Oliver Cowdery's Article on Marriage and Article on Governments and Laws.

Read the source ↗

General Clark, who had hoped for a military tribunal

1838 BoM Translation

General Clark, who had hoped for a military tribunal, turns fifty-three prisoners over to civil authorities accused of high treason, murder, burglary, arson, robbery, and larceny.

General Lucas and Troops Approach Far West

1838 LDS History

General Lucas and Troops Approach Far West

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

George A. Smith hauls the first

1838 BoM Translation

George A. Smith hauls the first load of stone for the House of the Lord, Hyrum Smith and Reynolds Cahoon commence digging the trench for the walls. (Hyrum's diary for June 7: "... commenced making Preparation for the Building the House of the lord...")

George M. Hinkle agrees to Lucas's

1838 BoM Translation

George M. Hinkle agrees to Lucas's terms to surrender Joseph Smith, Sidney Rigdon, Lyman Wight, Parley P. Pratt (h), and George W. W. Robinson, all church property, including arms, and all Mormons to leave the state. Leaders taken prisoner.

Governor Boggs issued the extermination order against Mormons in Missouri

1838 LDS History

Governor Boggs issued the extermination order against Mormons in Missouri.

Church News ↗

Governor Lilburn W

1838 Doctrine & Covenants

Governor Lilburn W. Boggs issued an extermination order against Saints.

D&C Historical Resources ↗

Headquarters of the Church was established

1838 LDS History

Headquarters of the Church was established in Far West, Caldwell County, Mo.

Heber C. Kimball arrives in Kirtland after 5-month mission to New York

1838 BoM Translation

Heber C. Kimball arrives in Kirtland after 5-month mission to New York, Vermont, and Maine, having baptized 30.

Hebrew school organized without Dr

1838 BoM Translation

Hebrew school organized (without Dr. Peixotto). " the translating room (west room in the upper part of the temple), "which was consecrated this morning by prayer, offered up by Father Smith. "Altercation" in the temple over singing school arrangements resolved by choosing committee of six.

Henry Root and David Thomas, owners

1838 BoM Translation

Henry Root and David Thomas, owners of land in DeWitt, Carroll county write Joseph, proposing a Mormon settlement on a bluff overlooking the confluence of the Grand Missouri rivers. It would be a convenient location for a port. The first Mormons arrived in July. Several hundred Canadian Saints under John E. Page (h) arrived in September, but all were expelled in Octobe.

High council considers Joseph's charge against

1838 BoM Translation

High council considers Joseph's charge against Almon Babbitt "for traducing my character." Almon acknowledges his fault, but the council considers it insufficient and adjourns "without obtaining a full confession from him."

Hiram Parks's Arrival in Daviess County

1838 LDS History

Hiram Parks's Arrival in Daviess County

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

Hyrum and William E. McLellin begin

1838 BoM Translation

Hyrum and William E. McLellin begin journey to Kirtland.

In 1838 there were 16 missionaries

1838 Mission

In 1838 there were 16 missionaries called to serve.

In Far West, apostles Thomas B.

1838 BoM Translation

In Far West, apostles Thomas B. Marsh and David W. Patten, and the high council reject David and John Whitmer, W. W. Phelps as presidents of Zion and arrange for neighborhood meetings on the case.

Read the source ↗

In Preston, England Orson Hyde and Willard Richards preach in the chapel of Joseph

1838 BoM Translation

In Preston, England Orson Hyde and Willard Richards preach in the chapel of Joseph Fielding's brother, Rev. James Fielding. Many believe and Fielding refuses them the use of his pulpit thereafter.

James G. Marsh, 14-year old son

1838 LDS History

James G. Marsh, 14-year old son of the president of the Quorum of Twelve, dies. The ELDER'S JOURNAL issue of July notes that at age nine this boy "had a remarkable vision in which he talked with the Father and many of the ancient prophets face to face, and beheld the Son of God coming in his glory." No publication at this time had yet referred to Joseph Smith's vision of the Father and the Son.

James Gordon Bennett's articles on Mormonism

1838 BoM Translation

James Gordon Bennett's articles on Mormonism appears in the New York Morning Courier and Enquirer. Mormonism is "religious fanatacism" and a "church and state party." Sidney the probable author of the Book of Mormon.

John N. Sapp swears in an affidavit that "I was a member of said

1838 LDS History

John N. Sapp swears in an affidavit that "I was a member of said body of Danites," and that Danites numbered "betwixt eight and ten hundred men, well armed and equipped . . ."

John Taylor History

1838 Prophets

Served a mission to Great Britain.

John Whitmer and William W. Phelps Excommunicated

1838 LDS History

John Whitmer and William W. Phelps Excommunicated

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

Joseph and Emma Smith arrived at Far West, Missouri, from Kirtland

1838 Doctrine & Covenants

Joseph and Emma Smith arrived at Far West, Missouri, from Kirtland.

D&C Historical Resources ↗

Joseph and Joseph Knight arrive in Manchester

1838 BoM Translation

Joseph and Joseph Knight arrive in Manchester.

Joseph and Sidney return to Kirtland

1838 BoM Translation

Joseph and Sidney return to Kirtland after a month-long trip to Upper Canada.

Read the source ↗

Joseph attends a debate at the home of William Smith

1838 BoM Translation

Joseph attends a debate at the home of William Smith. "the question proposed to debate upon was, as follows.— was it necessary for God to reveal himself to man, in order for their happiness.— I was on the affirmative and the last One to speak on that Side of the question,— but while listning, with interest to the, ingenuity displayed, on both Sides of the qu[e]stion, I was called, away to visit, Sister Angeline Work[s], who was Suposed to be dangerously Sick …"

Read the source ↗

Joseph attends church services at the usual time

1838 BoM Translation

Joseph attends church services at the usual time, 10 a.m., in the school house on the flats. Jesse Hitchcock preaches "a verry feeling discourse" in the afternoon. Peter Whitmer and Frederick G. Williams speak of "many things [in] connection with the rise and progress of this church, which were interesting, and the Saints, listened with much attention, after these serv[ic]es closed, the sacrament of the Lords Supper was administered, under the superintendance of President D. Whitmer, who presided over the meeting during the day." Joseph then comments on [65] prayer meetings, and the meeting is closed "by invoking the blessings of heaven."

Joseph F. Smith History

1838 Prophets

Ordained an Apostle at Far West, Missouri, by Brigham Young and Heber C. Kimball under the direction of Joseph Smith, who was in Liberty Jail.

Joseph marries Warren Parrish and Martha

1838 BoM Translation

Joseph marries Warren Parrish and Martha H. Raymond "in the name of God according to the articles, and covenants of the <Church of the> latter day Saints"

Joseph ordains Amasa Lyman (h) and Zerubabel Snow elders

1838 BoM Translation

Joseph ordains Amasa Lyman (h) and Zerubabel Snow elders. They leave on missions the next day, Amasa having heard only 5 sermons.

Joseph revising the King James Bible

1838 BoM Translation

Joseph revising the King James Bible.

Joseph Smith "beats his fists together"

1838 Prophets

Joseph Smith "beats his fists together" and angrily tells Mormon John Corrill (who had publicly expressed disagreement with a recent revelation on the United Order), "if you tell about the streets again that you do not believe this or that revelation, I will walk on your neck Sir." After Corrill had abandoned his belief in Mormonism he was nevertheless extremely generous in helping the Mormons during their Missouri difficulties.

Joseph Smith and other Church leaders moved to Far West, Missouri

1838 LDS History

Joseph Smith and other Church leaders moved to Far West, Missouri.

LDS History 1815-1846 ↗

Joseph Smith and other LDS and Danite leaders surrender after the Missouri militia surround

1838 Prophets

Joseph Smith and other LDS and Danite leaders surrender after the Missouri militia surround the Mormon capital of Far West. They barely escape execution.

Joseph Smith and others visited a place

1838 LDS History

Joseph Smith and others visited a place on Grand River, in Missouri, about 25 miles north of Far West, called Spring Hill by the Saints, which by revelation was named Adam-ondi-Ahman because "it is the place where Adam shall come to visit his people, or the Ancient of Days shall sit, as spoken of by Daniel the prophet." (See D&C 116, Dan. 7:9-14.)

Read the source ↗

Joseph Smith and others were made prisoners

1838 LDS History

Joseph Smith and others were made prisoners of the militia. The next day a court-martial ordered the Prophet and the others shot, but Brig. Gen. A.W. Doniphan refused to carry out the order.

Read the source ↗

Joseph Smith and others were taken prisoner outside Far West

1838 Doctrine & Covenants

Joseph Smith and others were taken prisoner outside Far West.

D&C Historical Resources ↗

Joseph Smith and prisoners arrived in Richmond, Missouri

1838 LDS History

Joseph Smith and prisoners arrived in Richmond, Missouri.

Church News ↗

Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon began

1838 Prophets

Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon began to study law under the tutelage of local militia general David R. Atchison and Alexander Doniphan Doniphan with assurances of being admitted to the bar after a year's "diligent application."

Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon request

1838 Prophets

Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon request annual remuneration of $1,100, each. The council gives 80 acre lots to each and grants their salary request. Council member George M. Hinkle "bitterly opposed it, as the Church had always been opposed to a salaried ministry."

Joseph Smith and the other prisoners arrived

1838 LDS History

Joseph Smith and the other prisoners arrived in Richmond, Mo., where they were put in chains and suffered much abuse by the guards. An arraignment and a two-week trial followed, resulting in their being sent Nov. 28 to the Liberty Jail in Liberty, Mo., where they were imprisoned about Dec. 1.

Read the source ↗

Joseph Smith History

1838 Prophets

After an irregular court of inquiry in Richmond, the Prophet and several others are imprisoned in Liberty Jail, Clay County, Missouri, to await later trial on false charges of “treason” and “murder.” The charge of treason had to do with the Saints’ resisting the mob-militia, and the charge of murder was due to the death of one of these militiamen during the Battle of Crooked River. Joseph Smith was accused of being an accessory though he was not present. 7

Joseph Smith receives a revelation that Spring Hill

1838 Prophets

Joseph Smith receives a revelation that Spring Hill, Missouri is really "Adam-ondi-Ahman, because, said he, it is the place where Adam shall come to visit his people, or the Ancient of Days shall sit, as spoken of by Daniel the prophet" and that a pile of stones found there was the remains of an altar built by Adam to offer sacrifices.

Joseph Smith spends part of the day answering questions for publication in THE ELDER'S

1838 Prophets

Joseph Smith spends part of the day answering questions for publication in THE ELDER'S JOURNAL. One question and answer is: "Question 10. Was not Jo Smith a money digger. Answer. Yes, but it was never a very proffitable job to him, as he only got fourteen dollars a month for it." At the time Joseph was a money digger Erie Canal workers received only twelve dollars a month.

Joseph Smith Sr. gives 15 patriarchal

1838 BoM Translation

Joseph Smith Sr. gives 15 patriarchal blessings, followed by a sumptuous feast. In the evening, Joseph Jr. delivers a lecture of 3 hours. Later he learns some Presby Terians were present, "and I expect that some of my saying's set like a garment that was well fited, as I expoused their abominations in the language of the scriptures, and I pray God that it may be like a nail in a sure place, driven by the master of assemblies."

Joseph Smith traveled through Daviess County to select settlement sites

1838 Doctrine & Covenants

Joseph Smith traveled through Daviess County to select settlement sites.

D&C Historical Resources ↗

Joseph Smith visited Adam-ondi-Ahman in Missouri by revelation

1838 LDS History

Joseph Smith visited Adam-ondi-Ahman in Missouri by revelation.

Church News ↗

Joseph Smith was imprisoned in Liberty Jail

1838 LDS History

Joseph Smith was imprisoned in Liberty Jail.

LDS History 1815-1846 ↗

Joseph Smith was transferred to Liberty Jail, Missouri

1838 Doctrine & Covenants

Joseph Smith was transferred to Liberty Jail, Missouri.

D&C Historical Resources ↗

Joseph Smith writes in his journal:

1838 Prophets

Joseph Smith writes in his journal: "We have a company of Danites in these times, to put to right physically that which is not right, and to clense the Church of every great evil which has hitherto existed among us inasmuch as they cannot be put to right by teachings and persuasyons."

Joseph Smith's clerk George W. Robinson

1838 Prophets

Joseph Smith's clerk George W. Robinson writes that "Joseph Smith, Jr., Sidney Rigdon, and myself" began "writing a history of this Church from the earliest period of its existance." This undoubtedly includes a description of Joseph Smith's first vision but this document in Robinson's handwriting is missing.

Joseph tours Cuyahoga county Orange, Warrensville,

1838 BoM Translation

Joseph tours Cuyahoga county (Orange, Warrensville, Bedford) with Reynolds Cahoon and Parley P. Pratt.

Joseph, Hyrum, Sidney, and Oliver arrive

1838 BoM Translation

Joseph, Hyrum, Sidney, and Oliver arrive in Salem, Massachusetts in search of treasure.

Joseph, Sidney, and Newel K. Whitney

1838 BoM Translation

Joseph, Sidney, and Newel K. Whitney leave Independence for Kirtland by stage.

Joseph's brother, Don Carlos, and cousin

1838 BoM Translation

Joseph's brother, Don Carlos, and cousin George A. Smith return from missions in Kentucky and Tennessee. "When nearly home they were known and pursued by the mob, which compelled them to travel one hundred miles in two days and nights. The ground at the time was slippery, and a severe northwest wind was blowing in their faces; they had but little to eat, and narrowly escaped freezing both nights."

JS and Prisoners Arrived in Independence

1838 LDS History

JS and Prisoners Arrived in Independence

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

JS and Prisoners Transported to Richmond

1838 LDS History

JS and Prisoners Transported to Richmond

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

JS and Sidney Rigdon's Flight to Far West

1838 LDS History

JS and Sidney Rigdon's Flight to Far West

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

JS's Approval of Recent Council Decisions

1838 LDS History

JS's Approval of Recent Council Decisions

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

JS's Arrival in Far West after Evacuation

1838 LDS History

JS's Arrival in Far West after Evacuation

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

JS's Assets Seized and Auctioned Off

1838 LDS History

JS's Assets Seized and Auctioned Off

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

JS's Meeting with Church Council on Financial Affairs

1838 LDS History

JS's Meeting with Church Council on Financial Affairs

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

JS's Preliminary Hearing on Confrontation with Adam Black

1838 LDS History

JS's Preliminary Hearing on Confrontation with Adam Black

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

JS's Return to Far West after March to Daviess County

1838 LDS History

JS's Return to Far West after March to Daviess County

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

JS's Return to Far West from Adam-ondi-Ahman

1838 LDS History

JS's Return to Far West from Adam-ondi-Ahman

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

JS's Return to Far West from Daviess County

1838 LDS History

JS's Return to Far West from Daviess County

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

JS's Visit to Adam-ondi-Ahman to Help Settle Canadian Immigrants

1838 LDS History

JS's Visit to Adam-ondi-Ahman to Help Settle Canadian Immigrants

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

Kirtland. Conference of high priests. Joseph

1838 BoM Translation

Kirtland. Conference of high priests. Joseph receives D&C 88:1–126, the Olive Leaf. Holy spirit of promise the second comforter; three degrees glory; eye single to my glory; he will unveil his face; idle thoughts; call a solemn assembly; teach one another; warn Gentiles; be clean; last days; resurrection, thousand years; prepare; virtues enjoined.

Kirtland. Jesse Gause, William E. McLellin,

1838 BoM Translation

Kirtland. Jesse Gause, William E. McLellin, and someone named Mogan or Morgan are excommunicated in Kirtland. Joseph is present and records the event but gives no reasons.

Read the source ↗

Latter-day Saint Cavalry Departed for Adam-ondi-Ahman

1838 LDS History

Latter-day Saint Cavalry Departed for Adam-ondi-Ahman

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

Latter-day Saint Offensive in Daviess County

1838 LDS History

Latter-day Saint Offensive in Daviess County

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

Latter-day Saint Prisoners Bound Over for Trial

1838 LDS History

Latter-day Saint Prisoners Bound Over for Trial

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

Lilburn W. Boggs Declined to Help Saints

1838 LDS History

Lilburn W. Boggs Declined to Help Saints

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

Lorenzo Snow History

1838 Prophets

Leaves Kirtland to escape mob violence associated with Kirtland apostasy.

Martin Harris sells 151 acres to Thomas Lakey for $3000 to pay

1838 BoM Translation

Martin Harris sells 151 acres to Thomas Lakey for $3000 to pay for the printing of the Book of Mormon.

Militia attack the Haun's Mill settlement

1838 LDS History

Militia attack the Haun's Mill settlement and murder seventeen men and boys. Thomas McBride, the oldest victim, is "cut to pieces with a corn cutter . . . literally mangled from head to foot." Sardius Smith, one of the youngest victims, begs for his life from a militiaman who put "his rifle near the boy's head, and literally blowed off the upper part of it." Although her son Sardius and husband are dead, Amanda Barnes Smith is preoccupied with one of her surviving sons, because "the entire hip joint of my wounded boy Alma had been shot away." She reports obtaining "a vision" from God about the way to care for the injury and tells her son that "the Lord will make you another hip." She would later write: "It is now nearly forty years ago, but Alma has never been the least crippled during his life."

Missionaries arrive at Independence. Peter Whitmer works

1838 BoM Translation

Missionaries arrive at Independence. Peter Whitmer works as a tailor and Ziba Peterson as a teacher to support the mission while Oliver, Parley, and Frederick cross into Indian territory to convert the Lamanites. (They are expelled in a few days by an Indian agent enforcing federal laws prohibiting unauthorized whites in the territory.)

Missouri governor Lilburn W

1838 Doctrine & Covenants

Missouri governor Lilburn W. Boggs declined to intervene in hostilities.

D&C Historical Resources ↗

Missouri Sheriff's Attempt to Arrest JS

1838 LDS History

Missouri Sheriff's Attempt to Arrest JS

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

Mob of 200–300 assemble in Independence;

1838 BoM Translation

Mob of 200–300 assemble in Independence; some proceed to Whitmer settlement, two are killed.

Mob threatens Joseph and others until

1838 BoM Translation

Mob threatens Joseph and others until Colonel Price arrives with guard of 74 men, who conduct them to Richmond, where they meet General Clark. Prisoners are chained together.

Mormons battle non-Mormons at the Gallatin

1838 BoM Translation

Mormons battle non-Mormons at the Gallatin election near Adam-ondi-Ahman.

Mormons expelled from Missouri; Saints evacuate Far West and settle in Quincy, Illinois

1838 LDS History

Mormons expelled from Missouri; Saints evacuate Far West and settle in Quincy, Illinois.

BYU Media History ↗

N. K. Whitney calls a council

1838 BoM Translation

N. K. Whitney calls a council to enquire into the case of Ezra Thayer. Evidently it concludes satisfactorily.

Read the source ↗

Name of the Church — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints —

1838 LDS History

Name of the Church — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints — was given by revelation. (See D&C 115).

Nancy Marinda Hyde, wife of Orson

1838 LDS History

Nancy Marinda Hyde, wife of Orson Hyde, is given a priesthood blessing (probably by Joseph Smith Sr.) which states: "The time shall come when thou shalt be left by thy husband, for he must go to foreign lands and preach the gospel, he will be great in the hands of the Lord having a great work to do among the nations of the earth. Thou will have afflictions and sorrow for thy husband--but thou will give him up to his calling and trust in God, thou shall be blest. In the absence of thy companion the angels of heaven shall minister to thee--they will give thee instructions and comfort thy heart."

Oliver Cowdery and David Whitmer are

1838 BoM Translation

Oliver Cowdery and David Whitmer are instructed on selecting the Twelve "that they would be ordained & sent forth from the Land of Zion."

Oliver Cowdery and John Whitmer arrive in Jackson County

1838 BoM Translation

Oliver Cowdery and John Whitmer arrive in Jackson County with the revelations for the Book of Commandments.

Orson Hyde again applies for bank

1838 BoM Translation

Orson Hyde again applies for bank charter.

Orson Hyde and Parley P. Pratt

1838 BoM Translation

Orson Hyde and Parley P. Pratt return from Jefferson City: Governor Dunklin says it is impractical to restore the Saints in Jackson county.

Orson Hyde letter of introduction for mission

1838 BoM Translation

Orson Hyde letter of introduction for mission to Palestine.

Orson Pratt arrives in Kirtland

1838 BoM Translation

Orson Pratt arrives in Kirtland.

Parley P. Pratt writes the first anti-Mormon-response tract, Mormonism Unveiled: Zion's Watchman Unmasked

1838 LDS History

Parley P. Pratt writes the first anti-Mormon-response tract, Mormonism Unveiled: Zion's Watchman Unmasked.

BYU Media History ↗

Preliminary Hearing of JS and Lyman Wight

1838 LDS History

Preliminary Hearing of JS and Lyman Wight

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

President Brigham Young started from his home at Montrose, for England

1838 BoM Translation

President Brigham Young started from his home at Montrose, for England. His health was very poor; he was unable to go thirty rods to the river without assistance. After he had crossed the ferry he got Brother Israel Barlow to carry him on his horse behind him to Heber C. Kimball's where he remained sick until the 18th. He left his wife sick with a babe only ten days old, and all his children sick, unable to wait upon each other. I returned home this evening.

Read the source ↗

Pro Tempore Presidents of Church Appointed

1838 LDS History

Pro Tempore Presidents of Church Appointed

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

Prominent Dissenters Departed Far West

1838 LDS History

Prominent Dissenters Departed Far West

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

Purchase of Lots for Church Settlement in De Witt

1838 LDS History

Purchase of Lots for Church Settlement in De Witt

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

Reestablishment of Church Publication Efforts

1838 LDS History

Reestablishment of Church Publication Efforts

Joseph Smith Papers ↗

Revelation (Hiram): purchase paper for the Book of Commandments

1838 BoM Translation

Revelation (Hiram): purchase paper for the Book of Commandments, not time for Martin Harris to go to Zion yet; postpone translation of the New Testament.

Revelation of March 8, 1832. Bishops

1838 BoM Translation

Revelation of March 8, 1832. Bishops to segregate personal property from church property. Presidency of the High Priesthood presides over entire church.