Third conference of the church
Third conference of the church, is held at Peter Whitmer Sr.'s home in Fayette, New York (no minutes are known).
1,461 entries in this era, shown 200 to a page. This is page 3 of 8, covering 1839 to 1841. See the same material on the moving timeline.
1839
Times and Seasons Published
Times and Seasons Published
Times and Seasons Reissued
Times and Seasons Reissued
While in Liberty Jail, Joseph Smith
While in Liberty Jail, Joseph Smith wrote an epistle to the Saints, which contained fervent pleadings with the Lord regarding the suffering of the Saints and words of prophecy. (See D&C 121.) A few days later, he continued the epistle, parts of which became Sections 122 and 123 of the Doctrine and Covenants.
Wilford Woodruff begins the study of Greek grammar in the School of the Prophets
Wilford Woodruff begins the study of Greek grammar in the School of the Prophets.
Wilford Woodruff writes: "Among the vast
Wilford Woodruff writes: "Among the vast number of the Keys of the Kingdom of God Joseph presented the following one to the Twelve for there benefit in there experience & travels in the flesh which is as follows: In order to detect the devel when he transforms himself nigh unto an angel of light. When an angel of God appears unto man face to face in personage & reaches out his hand unto the man & he takes hold of the angels hand & feels a substance the same as one man would in Shaking hands with another he may then know that it is an angel of God, & he should place all Confidence in him. Such personages or angels are Saints with there resurrected Bodies. But if a personage appears unto man & offers him his hand & the man takes hold of it & he feels nothing or does not sense any substance he may know it is the devel, for when a Saint whose body is not resurrected appears unto man in the flesh he will not offer him his hand for this is against the law given him & in keeping in mind these things we may detec the devil that he decieved us not."
Wilford Woodruff writes: "I laid my
Wilford Woodruff writes: "I laid my hands upon my wife and children, blessed them, committed them into the hands of God, and started upon my English mission, leaving my family sick, and with not more than four days' provisions."
Wilfred Woodruff History
While a prisoner, receives Doctrine and Covenants 121, Doctrine and Covenants 122, Doctrine and Covenants 123.
Willard Richards arrives in Kirtland after 3-month mission to New York and Massachusetts
Willard Richards arrives in Kirtland after 3-month mission to New York and Massachusetts.
William E. McLellin and Orson Hyde
William E. McLellin and Orson Hyde reluctantly accept the revelation of November 3. After school Brigham Young hears it read and appears "perfectly satisfied."
Work on documents for presentation. Rigdon
Work on documents for presentation. Rigdon sick.
Zebedee concludes "that it was not my duty to preced any further
Zebedee concludes "that it was not my duty to preced any further to the East. I have been afficted with a pain in my head every day Sinse we Started." He and Jesse Gause pray with and for each other "in the fellowship of the Gospel of our Lord & saviour Jesus Christ."
1840
1840 edition titled Manchester Hymnal
This edition was created in Manchester, England and was compiled by Parley P. Pratt, BY, JT. There were 271 Hymns in this edition. At the time it was edition number 2.
A Collection of Sacred Hymns...in Europe (277 hymns) first published in Manchester, England
A Collection of Sacred Hymns...in Europe (277 hymns) first published in Manchester, England.
Apostles Appointed to Meet Jewish Leaders
Apostles Appointed to Meet Jewish Leaders
Apostles to Return from Britain
Apostles to Return from Britain
Apostles' Arrival in Liverpool, England
Apostles' Arrival in Liverpool, England
Appointment of Committee to Draft Bill for Incorporation of Nauvoo
Appointment of Committee to Draft Bill for Incorporation of Nauvoo
Arrival of More Apostles in Liverpool
Arrival of More Apostles in Liverpool
Baptism for Dead Introduced
Baptism for Dead Introduced
Birth of Don Carlos Smith (JS's Son)
Birth of Don Carlos Smith (JS's Son)
Brigham Young and fellow Apostles arrive in Liverpool, England to expand the British mission
Brigham Young and fellow Apostles arrive in Liverpool, England to expand the British mission.
Brigham Young History
Joseph Smith, Sr., passes away in Nauvoo shortly after delivering deathbed assurances to his sons that Joseph will complete his mission and that Hyrum should assume the patriarchal priesthood.
British Mission apostles began publishing the Millennial Star in England
British Mission apostles began publishing the Millennial Star in England.
Church membership near 17,000
Church membership near 17,000.
Commerce Post Office Renamed Nauvoo
Commerce Post Office Renamed Nauvoo
Convert immigrants begin arriving in Nauvoo
Convert immigrants begin arriving in Nauvoo.
Copies of New Edition of Book of Mormon Available
Copies of New Edition of Book of Mormon Available
Damage to Steamship Nauvoo
Damage to Steamship Nauvoo
Death of Edward Partridge
Death of Edward Partridge
Death of Joseph Smith Sr.
Death of Joseph Smith Sr.
Extradition Proceedings Initiated against JS
Extradition Proceedings Initiated against JS
Financial Agreement Between JS and Oliver Granger
Financial Agreement Between JS and Oliver Granger
First emigrants sail from Liverpool
British converts begin crossing the Atlantic in chartered companies. Over the next fifty years roughly ninety thousand European Saints emigrate to America.
First General Conference held in Manchester, England
First General Conference held in Manchester, England.
Forty-one members of the Church sailed
Forty-one members of the Church sailed for the United States from Liverpool, England, on the ship Britannia, being the first Saints to gather from a foreign land. By 1890, some 85,000 LDS emigrants had crossed the Atlantic Ocean in about 280 voyages.
Hearings for Church's Memorial for Redress
Hearings for Church's Memorial for Redress
Henry G. Sherwood's Appointment as Clerk over Land Sales
Henry G. Sherwood's Appointment as Clerk over Land Sales
Howard Coray as JS's Clerk
Howard Coray as JS's Clerk
Illinois governor Thomas Carlin signed acts incorporating Nauvoo city
Illinois governor Thomas Carlin signed acts incorporating Nauvoo city.
In 1840 there were 80 missionaries
In 1840 there were 80 missionaries called to serve.
In England Apostle Wilford Woodruff records
In England Apostle Wilford Woodruff records that while he was preaching "some of the baser sort armed themselves with rotten Eggs & flung them at me."
In England Wilford Woodruff obtains a preaching license
In England Wilford Woodruff obtains a preaching license. He has to classify himself as a "protestant" and swear allegiance to Queen Victoria. A few days later an Anglican rector sends a constable to arrest Woodruff for preaching without a license. Woodruff shows his license and invites the constable to stay for the sermon. The constable remains and afterwards asks to be baptized.
Instructions on Priesthood Read to General Conference
Instructions on Priesthood Read to General Conference
Introduction of Church's Memorial for Redress to Senate
Introduction of Church's Memorial for Redress to Senate
John C. Bennett arrives in Nauvoo
John C. Bennett arrives in Nauvoo. Within eight months he joins the Church, helps secure a city charter, is cited by revelation to "help Joseph Smith in your labor in sending my word to the kings and people of the earth, and stand by . . . Joseph Smith, in the hour of affliction, and its reward shall not fail, if he should receive counsel," is elected mayor of Nauvoo, becomes chancellor of the University of the City of Nauvoo, is appointed Major-General of the Nauvoo Legion, and becomes assistant president in the First Presidency.
John C. Bennett Expressed Desire to Join Church
John C. Bennett Expressed Desire to Join Church
John Taylor History
Mission to England; presented a copy of the Book of Mormon to Queen Victoria.
Joseph Smith asks to be released
Joseph Smith asks to be released as land agent for Nauvoo in order to concentrate on his religious and prophetic duties. He asks the High Council "That when he is relieved from such temporal duties he would have no means of support whatever and and requested that some one might be appointed to see that all his necessary wants are provided for, as well as, sufficient means or appropriations for a Clerk or Clerks which he may require to aid him in his important work."
Joseph Smith began teaching about baptisms for the dead
Joseph Smith began teaching about baptisms for the dead.
Joseph Smith brings charges against Almon
Joseph Smith brings charges against Almon W. Babbitt before the High Council. He charges Babbitt with "First . . . stating that Joseph Smith, Jun., had extravagantly purchased three suits of clothes while he was at Washington City, and that Sidney Rigdon had purchased four suits while at the same place, besides dresses in profusion for their families. Second. For having stated that Joseph Smith, Jun.: Sidney Rigdon and Elias Higbee had said that they were worth one hundred thousand dollars each, while they were at Washington, and that Joseph Smith, Jun., had repeated the same statement while in Philadelphia, and for saying that Oliver Granger had stated that he also was worth as much as they (that is, one hundred thousand dollars). Third. For holding secret councils in the Lord's House, in Kirtland, and for locking the doors of the house, for the purpose of prohibiting certain brethren in good standing in the Church, from being in the Council, thereby depriving them of the use of the house. . . . The parties spoke at length, after which, Joseph Smith withdrew the charge."
Joseph Smith delivered a discourse emphasizing the Nauvoo Temple
Joseph Smith delivered a discourse emphasizing the Nauvoo Temple.
Joseph Smith discussed baptism for the dead at a general conference in Nauvoo
Joseph Smith discussed baptism for the dead at a general conference in Nauvoo.
Joseph Smith History
At the Prophet’s request, his scribe, Robert B. Thompson, reads in general conference Joseph Smith’s “Treatise on Priesthood,” apparently the only discourse of the Prophet for which we have an exact text. 8
Joseph Smith introduced proxy baptism for the dead during a funeral sermon
Joseph Smith introduced proxy baptism for the dead during a funeral sermon.
Joseph Smith preaches baptism for the dead at the funeral of Seymour Brunson
Joseph Smith preaches baptism for the dead at the funeral of Seymour Brunson who died Aug 10. "General George Washington" is among the first for whom a vicarious baptism for the dead occurs in the Mississippi River, his proxy ("friend") is Joseph Smith's brother Don Carlos. After 1841 baptisms for the dead would occur only in specially constructed temple fonts.
Joseph Smith preaches in Nauvoo: "I
Joseph Smith preaches in Nauvoo: "I prophecy in the name of the Lord that the state of Illinois shall become a great and mighty mountain as a city set upon a hill that cannot be hid and a great that giveth light to the world. The city of Nauvoo also shall become the greatest city in the whole world."
JS and Company's Departure for Illinois
JS and Company's Departure for Illinois
JS's Approval of Printing Book of Mormon in England
JS's Approval of Printing Book of Mormon in England
JS's Approval of Ramus Stake
JS's Approval of Ramus Stake
JS's Discourse on Baptism for Dead
JS's Discourse on Baptism for Dead
JS's Discourse on Church's Beliefs
JS's Discourse on Church's Beliefs
JS's Discourse on Importance of Building Nauvoo Temple
JS's Discourse on Importance of Building Nauvoo Temple
JS's Letter to Phelps
JS's Letter to Phelps
JS's Petition to Be Relieved of Land Sale Duties
JS's Petition to Be Relieved of Land Sale Duties
JS's Return to Commerce
JS's Return to Commerce
Latter Day Saints' Millennial Star first published in England (Parley P
Latter Day Saints' Millennial Star first published in England (Parley P. Pratt, editor).
Letter of Reproof to Saints in Kirtland
Letter of Reproof to Saints in Kirtland
Lorenzo Snow History
Sustained as President of the Quorum of the Twelve.
Marriage Ceremony for Lucy Smith
Marriage Ceremony for Lucy Smith
Memorial Sent to Committee on Judiciary
Memorial Sent to Committee on Judiciary
More Apostles Departed for England
More Apostles Departed for England
Mormon businessmen sign a promissory note
Mormon businessmen sign a promissory note for the purchase from the federal government of a steamboat and other river equipment with Joseph and Hyrum Smith as guarantors. After the steamboat runs aground and the principals fail on the note, United States Attorney Justin Butterfield in April 1842 files a complaint and receives a default judgment against the Nauvoo businessmen, including Joseph, for $5,212.49.
Nauvoo City Charter Granted
Nauvoo City Charter Granted
Nauvoo Temple Announced
Nauvoo Temple Announced
Notice in "Times and Seasons:" "
Notice in "Times and Seasons:" ". . . It is requested that all those who have been endowed with a poetical genius, whose muse has not been altogether idle, will feel enough interest in a work of this kind, to immediately forward all choice, newly composed or revised hymns. In designating those who arc endowed with Poetical genius, we do not intend to exclude others; we mean all who have good hymns that will cheer the heart of the righteous man, to send them as soon as practicable directed to Mrs. Emma Smith, Nauvoo, Illinois. POST PAID."
On his deathbed, Joseph Smith, Sr.,
On his deathbed, Joseph Smith, Sr., ordains his son Hyrum as Presiding Patriarch. This would be the last instance of patrilineal ordination which the hierarchy accepted for the office of patriarch. More than a decade later Brigham Young would reject a similar ordination by Presiding Patriarch John Smith for his son George A. Smith.
Orson Pratt publishes his Interesting Account
Orson Pratt publishes his Interesting Account..., the first printed account of Joseph Smith's 1820 vision.
Orson Pratt's Account of First Vision Published
Orson Pratt's Account of First Vision Published
Parley P. Pratt publishes An Address to Judge Higbee
Parley P. Pratt publishes An Address to Judge Higbee..., the first short missionary tract outlining Mormon fundamentals.
Patriarch Hyrum Smith gives a patriarchal
Patriarch Hyrum Smith gives a patriarchal blessing: "You are of the Tribe of Caleb according to the manifestation of the Spirit; or a descendant of Caleb; and according to the blessings of thy lineage, are entitled to the blessings made to that Tribe; and shall possess them in thy day; for you have integrity and zeal for the cause of God. . . . And in your day, shall the plates containing the Record of Mormon, and the Brass Plates, be brought into the bosom of the church; and also many other sacred records for the benefit of the Saints."
Peter Haws's Purchase of Stemboat
Peter Haws's Purchase of Stemboat
Presentation of Resolutions on Senate Committee's Report
Presentation of Resolutions on Senate Committee's Report
Robert B. Thompson Appointed Church Clerk
Robert B. Thompson Appointed Church Clerk
Samuel Bent and George W
Samuel Bent and George W. Harris Appointed to Raise Funds for New Edition of Scriptures
Senate Could No Longer Consider Church's Redress
Senate Could No Longer Consider Church's Redress
Senate's Approval of Resolution to Dismiss Church's Memorial
Senate's Approval of Resolution to Dismiss Church's Memorial
The 1840 Church Membership 16,865
1840 Church Membership 16,865
The Commerce post office was officially renamed Nauvoo, Illinois
The Commerce post office was officially renamed Nauvoo, Illinois.
The High Council of the Church
The High Council of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints of Nauvoo Illinois meets and decides: "In as much as Henry G. Sherwood Charles C. Rich and Dimic B. Huntington have been appointed a committee, by a public meeting of the Church, to contract for the building of houses for some of the wives of the Twelve it was voted that the same committee shall also contract for the fencing and ploughing of the lots on which the houses are to be built and that the labor be paid in town lots according to the proposals instructions of the said committee for the building of the houses in the first place."
The LATTER-DAY SAINTS MILLENIAL STAR
the LATTER-DAY SAINTS MILLENIAL STAR, the first LDS periodical outside the U.S., is published in England.
The U.S. Senate dismissed the Church's petition for Missouri redress
The U.S. Senate dismissed the Church's petition for Missouri redress.
This day the Twelve blessed and drank a bottle of wine at Penworthan
This day the Twelve blessed and drank a bottle of wine at Penworthan, made by Mother Moon forty years before.
U.S. Post Office Department designation for Commerce
U.S. Post Office Department designation for Commerce, Illinois is changed to Nauvoo, "a Hebrew term signifying a beautiful place." Although credit for the inventive name is usually given to Joseph Smith, contemporaries attribute it to George W. Robinson, Robinson, appointed Nauvoo's first postmaster, had studied under Kirtland's Jewish tutor Joshua Seixas and was "quite a Hebrew scholar."
WESTERN WORLD, published in Warsaw Illinois
WESTERN WORLD, published in Warsaw Illinois reports that some residents of Hancock had begun to complain of "petty depredations... such as the loss of various small instruments of agriculture." Particularly aggrieved are some residents of Tully, Missouri, who complained of the loss of a variety of items. A depot of stolen goods identified as the Tully items are found on a farm not far from Warsaw. Tully residents stake out the depot, and take four Mormons prisoner who are found in the vicinity of the stolen items. They kidnap the four, take them across the river into Missouri, and extract confessions from three of them by tying them to trees and beating them.
Wilford Woodruff records that after a day of preaching and baptizing "two females
Wilford Woodruff records that after a day of preaching and baptizing "two females had a fit in the evening. I lade hands upon them & they soon recovered."
Wilford Woodruff records: "while forming a determination to warn the people in London &
Wilford Woodruff records: "while forming a determination to warn the people in London & overcome the powers of Darkness by the assistance of God; A person appeared unto me which I considerd was the Prince of Darkness or the Devel. He made war with me & attempted to take my life. He caught me by the throat & choaked me nearly to death. He wounded me in my forehead. I also wounded him in a number of places in the head. As he was about to overcome me I prayed to the father in the name of Jesus for help. I then had power over him & he left me though much wounded. 3 personage dressed in white Came to me & prayed with me & I was immediately healed & delivered me from all my troubles."
Wilford Woodruff reports in his journal:
Wilford Woodruff reports in his journal: "On Sunday five men members of the Church saw TWO MEN ride across the Missisippi River from Montrose to Nauvoo. One man was on a white horse & the other on a bay or red horse. The waters parted under their feet & fire flew when their tails moved & they observed the clothing of the men. A few month previous to this a man was seen walking across the river by several believers & others. The Unbeleivers said Probably a mormon was going across to steal sumthing."
Wilford Woodruff writes from England of his dealings with a sect called The United
Wilford Woodruff writes from England of his dealings with a sect called The United Brethren: "I also baptized about forty preachers of the same order, and several others belonging unto other churches, and about one hundred and twenty members of the United Brethren, which opened about forty doors or preaching places, where the fullness of the Gospel would meet a welcome reception, and all this during the term of one month and five days."
Wilford Woodruff, on a mission in England learns that his first-born child has died
Wilford Woodruff, on a mission in England learns that his first-born child has died over three months earlier.
1841
1841 edition titled Church Hymn Book
This edition was created in Boston, USA and was compiled by John Hardy (Unofficial). There were 155 Hymns in this edition. At the time it was the only edition.
1841 edition titled Manchester Hymnal
This edition was created in Nauvoo, USA and was compiled by Emma Smith. There were 304 Hymns in this edition. At the time it was the only edition.
A baptismal font in the Nauvoo Temple basement was dedicated
A baptismal font in the Nauvoo Temple basement was dedicated.
A Collection of Sacred Hymns (Emma Smith, 304 hymns) published in Nauvoo, Illinois
A Collection of Sacred Hymns (Emma Smith, 304 hymns) published in Nauvoo, Illinois.
A revelation (see D&C 124) given
A revelation (see D&C 124) given at Nauvoo, Ill., outlined instructions for building a temple in Nauvoo. Baptism for the dead was introduced.
A Voice of Warning by Parley P
A Voice of Warning by Parley P. Pratt published in Manchester, England.
Alexander Neibaur goes to work for Joseph Smith
Alexander Neibaur goes to work for Joseph Smith. Neibaur is a German-Jewish convert well-versed in the Kabbalah. He tutors Joseph in German and Hebrew and publishes articles on the Kabbalah in official Church publications. Three years later Joseph gives the "King Follett" discourse which echoes themes from Kabbalistic literature. Neibaur is the great grandfather of noted Mormon scholar Hugh Nibley.
At a site on the Mount
At a site on the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem, Orson Hyde dedicated Palestine for the gathering of the Jews.
Authorization for Hyrum Smith and Isaac Galland to Solicit Donations
Authorization for Hyrum Smith and Isaac Galland to Solicit Donations
Bankruptcy Law Passed by Congress
Bankruptcy Law Passed by Congress
Baptism for the Dead revelation is received
Baptism for the Dead revelation is received.
Baptisms for Dead Temporarily Discontinued
Baptisms for Dead Temporarily Discontinued
Book of Mormon first published in Liverpool, England for Brigham Young by J
Book of Mormon first published in Liverpool, England for Brigham Young by J. Tompkins (4,050 copies).
Charles Anthon writes, "Many years ago,--the precise date I do not now recollect,--a plain-looking
Charles Anthon writes, "Many years ago,--the precise date I do not now recollect,--a plain-looking countryman called upon me with a letter from Dr. Samuel L. Mitchell, requesting me to examine, and give my opinion upon a certain paper, marked with various characters, which the doctor confessed he could not decipher, and which the bearer of the note was very anxious to have explained. A very brief examination of the paper, convinced me that it was a mere hoax, and a very clumsy one too. The characters were arranged in columns, like the Chinese mode of writing, and presented the most singular medley that I ever beheld. Greek, Hebrew and all sorts of letters, more or less distorted, either through unskilfulness or from actual design, were intermingled with sundry delineations of half moons, stars, and other natural objects, and the whole ended in a rude representation of the Mexican zodiac. The conclusion was irresistible, that some cunning fellow had prepared the paper in question for the purpose of imposing upon the countryman who brought it, and I told the man so without any hesitation. He then proceeded to give me the history of the whole affair, which convinced me that he had fallen into the hands of some sharper, while it left me in great astonishment at his simplicity."
D&C 124 was revealed at Nauvoo, directing temple and house construction
D&C 124 was revealed at Nauvoo, directing temple and house construction.
D&C 125 was revealed concerning Saints gathering in Iowa Territory
D&C 125 was revealed concerning Saints gathering in Iowa Territory.
D&C 126 was revealed to Brigham Young at Nauvoo, Illinois
D&C 126 was revealed to Brigham Young at Nauvoo, Illinois.
Death of Don Carlos Smith (JS's Brother)
Death of Don Carlos Smith (JS's Brother)
Death of Don Carlos Smith (JS's Son)
Death of Don Carlos Smith (JS's Son)
Death of JS's Agent Oliver Granger
Death of JS's Agent Oliver Granger
Death of Robert B. Thompson
Death of Robert B. Thompson
Death of US President William Henry Harrison
Death of US President William Henry Harrison
Doctrine & Covenants Section 124 was given to Joseph Smith in matters relating
Doctrine & Covenants Section 124 was given to Joseph Smith in matters relating to Nauvoo Temple and Nauvoo House to be built; baptism for the dead
Doctrine & Covenants Section 125 was given to Joseph Smith in matters relating
Doctrine & Covenants Section 125 was given to Joseph Smith in matters relating to Saints in Iowa
Doctrine & Covenants Section 126 was given to Joseph Smith in matters relating
Doctrine & Covenants Section 126 was given to Joseph Smith in matters relating to To Brigham Young
Don Carlos Smith, Joseph's youngest brother,
Don Carlos Smith, Joseph's youngest brother, dies in Nauvoo at 26 years of age.
Elder Warren Foote writes in his journal: The semi-annual conference commenced today
Elder Warren Foote writes in his journal: The semi-annual conference commenced today. After meeting was dismissed a deposit was made in the southeast corner of the Nauvoo house. A square hole had been chisseled in the large corner stone like a box. An invitation was given for any who wished to put in any little memento they desired to. I was standing very near the corner stone, when Joseph Smith came up with the manuscript of the Book of Mormon, and said he wanted to put that in there, as he had had trouble enough with it. It appeared to be written on fools' cap paper, and was about three inches in thickness. There was also deposited a Book of D&C, five cents, ten cents, twenty-five cents, fifty cents, and one dollar pieces of American coin, besides other articles. A close-fitting stone cover was laid in cement, and the wall built over it. I was standing within three feet of the Prophet when he handed in the manuscript, and saw it very plainly. He intimated in his remarks, that in after generations the walls might be thrown down, and these things discovered, from which the people could learn the doctrines and principles and faith of the Latter-day Saints."
First Baptisms for Dead in Nauvoo Temple
First Baptisms for Dead in Nauvoo Temple
First book known to be printed in Nauvoo: first 10 chapters of Heber C
First book known to be printed in Nauvoo: first 10 chapters of Heber C. Kimball's Journal.
First general elections under Nauvoo's charter were held
First general elections under Nauvoo's charter were held.
First Nauvoo General Elections
First Nauvoo General Elections
First Presidency's Proclamation to Saints Scattered Abroad
First Presidency's Proclamation to Saints Scattered Abroad
Horace Hotchkiss's Agreement with JS Regarding Land in New Jersey
Horace Hotchkiss's Agreement with JS Regarding Land in New Jersey
Hosea Stout, Nauvoo Legion clerk, reports
Hosea Stout, Nauvoo Legion clerk, reports that the Legion totals 1,490 men, and that at a special review Lieutenant General Joseph Smith "delivered a military speech to the troops in his usual energetic style."
In 1841 there were 100 missionaries
In 1841 there were 100 missionaries called to serve.
In Manchester, England the Quorum of Twelve Apostles holds its first official meeting
In Manchester, England the Quorum of Twelve Apostles holds its first official meeting in a foreign country. Afterwards cake is distributed and Parley P. Pratt writes a poem for the occasion: "When in far Distant regions/As Strangers we roam/Far away from our Country/Our friends and our home/When sinking in sorrow/Fresh courage we'll take/As we think on our friends/And remember the CAKE."
James Murdock writes to the CONGREGATIONAL
James Murdock writes to the CONGREGATIONAL OBSERVER of his interview with William Smith, LDS Apostle and brother of Joseph Smith: "About the year 1823, there was a revival of religion in that region, and Joseph was one of several hopeful converts. The others were joining, some one church, and some another in that vicinity, but Joseph hesitated between the different denominations. While his mind was perplexed with this subject, he prayed for divine direction; and afterwards was awaked one night by an extraordinary vision. The glory of the Lord filled the chamber with a dazzling light, and a glorious angel appeared to him, conversed with him, and told him that he was a chosen vessel unto the Lord to make known true religion."
James Sloan Appointed Church Clerk
James Sloan Appointed Church Clerk
John C. Bennett Appointed to First Presidency
John C. Bennett Appointed to First Presidency
John Taylor History
Receives revelation instructing the priesthood to build the Nauvoo Temple and Nauvoo House; key priesthood officers specified (Doctrine and Covenants 124).
Joseph Smith "preached to a large
Joseph Smith "preached to a large congregation at the Stand, on the Science and practice of Medicine, desiring to persuade the Saints to trust in God when sick, and not in an arm of flesh, and live by faith and not by medicine, or poison, and when they were sick, and had called for the Elders to pray for them, and they were not healed, to use herbs and mild food."
Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon rebaptize
Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon rebaptize each other for remission of sins and "renewal of covenants." Church leaders would promote rebaptism for all members during a religious reformation beginning May 1842. In future, four temples would perform 7,788 baptisms for renewal of covenants from 1877 through 1893. This ordinance would be officially discontinued in 1922.
Joseph Smith History
Arrested again on false Missouri charges of treason and murder dating from his arrest and imprisonment in Liberty Jail, the intent being to return him to Missouri for trial; writ for arrest is dismissed on 10 June 1841. The Prophet said his defense relied in part on the fact “that the indictment, in Missouri, was obtained by fraud, bribery and duress, all of which I was prepared to prove.” 9
Joseph Smith is arrested as a fugitive from Missouri Justice but not extradited
Joseph Smith is arrested as a fugitive from Missouri Justice but not extradited. Judge Stephen A. Douglas dismisses the case on procedural grounds.
Joseph Smith marries a woman polygamously
Joseph Smith marries a woman polygamously who lives with her legal husband. Brigham Young University would later name one of its residence halls after her. Zina D. Huntington would also marry Brigham Young after Joseph's death, her legal husband, Henry Jacobs, standing a witness. This is the first of a dozen known cases of polyandry in Mormon history. Throughout his life Jacobs bemoans the fact that his wife and children have been taken from him. In death, however, he is buried 30 feet from Zina in the Salt Lake City Cemetery.
Joseph Smith receives a revelation later
Joseph Smith receives a revelation (later section 126 of D&C) at Brigham Young's house: "Dear and well-beloved brother Brigham Young, verily thus saith the Lord unto you, my servant Brigham, it is no more required at your hand to leave your family as in times past, for your offering is acceptable to me; I have seen your labour and toil in journeyings for my name. I therefore command you to send my word abroad, and take special care of your family from this time, henceforth, and forever. Amen." Young is called to leave his family and go on a mission three years later.
Joseph Smith was arrested at Bear Creek, Illinois
Joseph Smith was arrested at Bear Creek, Illinois.
Joseph Smith writes "To the Saints
Joseph Smith writes "To the Saints abroad--The First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, anxious to promote the prosperity of said Church, feel it their duty to call upon the Saints who reside out of this county Hancock, to make preparations to come in without delay. . . .Let it, therefore, be understood, that all the stakes, excepting those in this county, and in Lee county, Iowa, are discontinued, and the Saints instructed to settle in this county as soon as circumstances will permit. signed JOSEPH SMITH, President.
Joseph Smith writes to Thomas Sharp,
Joseph Smith writes to Thomas Sharp, editor of the WARSAW SIGNAL: "SIR-You will discontinue my paper-its contents are calculated to pollute me, and to patronize the filthy sheet-that tissue of lies-that sink of iniquity-is disgraceful to any moral man. Yours, with utter contempt, JOSEPH SMITH. P.S. Please publish the above in your contemptible paper." Sharp publishes Smith's letter with the introduction: "In our paper of week before last, we took occasion to express an honest opinion in relation to the Mormons, and some of their leaders -an opinion which we believe is concurred in by nine-tenths of the community. No sooner, however, had our paper reached Nauvoo, than it caused the following highly important revelation to be forwarded us, from his holiness, the Prophet." This is Sharps first published sarcasm towards the Mormons but from now on he refers to Smith as "His Holiness."
JS Arrested in Extradition Attempt
JS Arrested in Extradition Attempt
JS Commissioned as Nauvoo Legion Lieutenant General
JS Commissioned as Nauvoo Legion Lieutenant General
JS Elected Trustee-in-Trust for Church
JS Elected Trustee-in-Trust for Church
JS Sealed to Presendia Huntington Buell
JS Sealed to Presendia Huntington Buell
JS Sealed to Zina Huntington Jacobs
JS Sealed to Zina Huntington Jacobs
JS's Arrest Warrant Ruled Invalid
JS's Arrest Warrant Ruled Invalid
JS's Discourse at Weekly Lyceum
JS's Discourse at Weekly Lyceum
JS's Discourse on Continuing Revelation
JS's Discourse on Continuing Revelation
JS's Discourse on First Principles of Gospel
JS's Discourse on First Principles of Gospel
JS's Discourse on Gift of Tongues
JS's Discourse on Gift of Tongues
JS's Endorsement of Governor Nominee
JS's Endorsement of Governor Nominee
JS's Interview by Unnamed Preacher
JS's Interview by Unnamed Preacher
JS's Journey to Monmouth for Hearing
JS's Journey to Monmouth for Hearing
JS's Letter to Times and Seasons Editor
JS's Letter to Times and Seasons Editor
JS's Letter Urging Saints to Gather to Nauvoo
JS's Letter Urging Saints to Gather to Nauvoo
JS's Meeting with Indians
JS's Meeting with Indians
JS's Request for Reimbursement from Arrest and Trial Fees
JS's Request for Reimbursement from Arrest and Trial Fees
JS's Talk on Construction of Temple and Baptism for Dead
JS's Talk on Construction of Temple and Baptism for Dead
Letter to JS from Horace Hotchkiss Regarding Interest Payment
Letter to JS from Horace Hotchkiss Regarding Interest Payment
Lieutenant General Joseph Smith issues General
Lieutenant General Joseph Smith issues General Orders for the Nauvoo Legion: "The 1st Company, (riflemen) 1st Battalion, 2nd Regiment, 2nd Cohort, will be attached to the escort contemplated in the general orders of the 4th inst., for the 3rd of July next. In forming the Legion, the Adjutant will observe the rank of companies as follows; to wit: 1st Cohort the flying artillery first, the lancers next, and the riflemen next -- visiting companies of dragoons next the lancers, and cavalry next the dragoons: 2nd Cohort -- the artillery first, the lancers next, the riflemen next, the light-infantry next, and the infantry next -- visiting companies in their appropriate places on the right of said troops of their own grade: the ranking company of the 1st Cohort will be formed on the right of said cohort, and the ranking company of the 2nd Cohort will be formed on the left of said cohort, -- he escort will be formed on the right of the forces."
Nauvoo City Council Organized
Nauvoo City Council Organized
Nauvoo House Association Incorporated
Nauvoo House Association Incorporated
Nauvoo House Cornerstone Laid
Nauvoo House Cornerstone Laid
Nauvoo Temple Baptismal Font Dedication
Nauvoo Temple Baptismal Font Dedication
Nauvoo Temple Cornerstones Laid
Nauvoo Temple Cornerstones Laid
New Edition of Book of Mormon Prepared
New Edition of Book of Mormon Prepared
Notice in "Times and Seasons:" "The brethren are hereby notified that our well-beloved brother
Notice in "Times and Seasons:" "The brethren are hereby notified that our well-beloved brother, Hyrum Smith, patriarch of the church, has erected a comfortable office opposite his dwelling-house, where himself, together with his scribe and recorder, James Sloan, will attend regularly every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, during the entire day, or upon any other day if urgent circumstances require it, to perform the duties of his high and holy calling. A copy of the blessings can be received immediately after being pronounced, so that the brethren who live at a distance can have it to take with them."
Ordinance for Religious Freedom in Nauvoo Passed
Ordinance for Religious Freedom in Nauvoo Passed
Orson Hyde dedicated Palestine for Judah's scattered remnants
Orson Hyde dedicated Palestine for Judah's scattered remnants.
Orson Hyde dedicated Palestine for the gathering of the Jews
Orson Hyde dedicated Palestine for the gathering of the Jews.
Quorum of Twelve Elevated
Quorum of Twelve Elevated
Quorum of Twelve votes "unanimously
Quorum of Twelve votes "unanimously, that we for ourselves, and the Church we represent, approve of the proceedings of President Smith, so far as he has gone, in making over certain properties to his wife, children, and friends for their support, and that he continue to deed and make over certain portions of Church property which now exist, or which may be obtained by exchange, as in his wisdom he shall judge expedient, till his own, and his father's household, shall have an inheritance secured to them in our midst"
Quorum of Twelve's Announcement on Temple Donations
Quorum of Twelve's Announcement on Temple Donations
Revelation Advising Brigham Young to Stay with His Family
Revelation Advising Brigham Young to Stay with His Family
Revelation for Marinda Nancy Johnson Hyde
Revelation for Marinda Nancy Johnson Hyde
Revelation given at Nauvoo, Illinois outlining temple building instructions
Revelation given at Nauvoo, Illinois outlining temple building instructions.
Revelation on Gathering in Iowa Territory
Revelation on Gathering in Iowa Territory
Revelation on Nauvoo Temple and Nauvoo House
Revelation on Nauvoo Temple and Nauvoo House
Revelations for Amos Fuller and John Snider
Revelations for Amos Fuller and John Snider
Sale of Remaining Interest in Steamboat Nauvoo
Sale of Remaining Interest in Steamboat Nauvoo
Sealing of JS and Louisa Beman
Sealing of JS and Louisa Beman
The 1841 Church Membership 19,856
1841 Church Membership 19,856
The High Council in Hanley, England
The High Council in Hanley, England considers "the case of a Brother Mumford who was ingaged in the Magic or Blackart fortune telling &c which prevails to a great extent in this Country. But as he persisted in his course after being laboured with the Council withdrew fellowship form him. He was holding the office of a Priest . . ."
The Nauvoo City Council passed an ordinance protecting religious toleration
The Nauvoo City Council passed an ordinance protecting religious toleration.
The Nauvoo Legion was organized with Joseph
The Nauvoo Legion was organized with Joseph Smith as lieutenant general.
The WARSAW SIGNAL editorializes: "We believe
The WARSAW SIGNAL editorializes: "We believe they Mormons have the same rights as other religious bodies posses. . . But whenever they, as a people, step beyond the proper sphere of a religious denomination, and become a political body, as many of our citizens are beginning to apprehend will be the case, then this press stands pledged to take a stand against th. . . It is bound to oppose the concentration of political power in a religious body, or in the hands of a few individuals."
The WARSAW SIGNAL in Warsaw, Illinois:
The WARSAW SIGNAL in Warsaw, Illinois: "How MILITARY these people are becoming! Every thing they say or do seems to breathe the spirit of military tactics. Their PROPHET appears, on all great occasions, in his splendid regimental dress, signs his name Lieut. General, and more titles are to be found in the Nauvoo Legion, than any one book on military tactics can produce; and now comes a public journal, the name of which is composed of two military words. Truly FIGHTING must, be a part of the creed of these Saints!"
TIMES and SEASONS prints a "Dialogue
TIMES and SEASONS prints a "Dialogue on Mormonism" which presents LDS doctrine and claims in dialogue form. Speaking of the Book of Mormon peoples: "Mr. M. You will observe by this account Mr. R. that this people who landed here were Jews, this you know agrees with the idea, which many learned men have had, that the Indians are descendants of the Jews. Mr. R. I am aware that this idea is generally entertained among the learned."
Visit to Nauvoo from Illinois Judicial Leaders
Visit to Nauvoo from Illinois Judicial Leaders
Wilford Woodruff describes a storm during
Wilford Woodruff describes a storm during the voyage home from England: "When we arose in the morning we still found strong head winds which soon increased to a great Storm & tempest which scenery I have not language to describe. . . .The tempest was now raging with all power the sea piling up into mountains, the Ship mountain the waves & billows & pitching into the valleys & rocking tremendiously & shiping seas occasionly. In the midst of this seenery the cry of help was herd in our Cabin. I rushed to the seene & found the ropes giving way & breaking which held the whole mass of baggage which was piled up between decks, consisting of heavy trunks, chests, Boxes & barrels which if once liberated from their Confinement would with one surge be hurled with all their force into the births of the men, women, & Children which would endanger the lives of all. On seeing the foundation of this mass give way Elder W. Richards & myself Sprang to this place of danger & braced ourselves against the barrels & held them for a few moments untill it was a little secured. I then went on deck to the captain & informed him of the situation of things below & he sent the Sailors with some ropes & secured the pile which was endangering the lives of many. . . . I stood in the middle of the aft quarter deck holding the captains Speaking trumpet in one hand & holding to a fast bench with the other when we Shipped a tremendious Sea on the windward side of us which passed clear over the quarter deck on which I stood. On seeing that we Could not escape it Elder Richards flung himself close under the Bulwarks & the body of the wave went clear over him without wetting him but little. But as I Could not take the same advantage I flung myself upon the deck & held upon the fast seat whare I remained untill the sea passed over me & left me drenched in the Surge. I now thought it time for me to leave my seat of observation for the day & go below as I was thoroughly wet with salt water. I went to bed but did not sleep but little for the ship rocked at a dredful rate. Boxes, barrels, & tines were tumbling from one end of the Cabin to the other. And in the steerage about 15 Births were flung down 9 at one surge with all the men women & Children flung into a pile in the midst of the berths but no lives lost or bones broken."
Wilford Woodruff writes during his voyage
Wilford Woodruff writes during his voyage home from England: "Fears were entertained that the Ship was on fire as smoke arose from the holes but it was found to Come from the Cook shop. I was requested to carry the dishes to the cook So I got my hands full of dishes of various kinds & just as I steped to the door of the Cook house the Ship gave a dredful surge & rocked so that she lay upon her side with her stud sails in the water. This unexpected surge plunged me head foremost about 10 feet the whole bredth of the cook shop against the side of the cook room with the cook on top of me. As this was my first introduction to the cook since I had been at sea I begged his pardon for Such an adrupt enterance, & withdrew leaving the cook with three smashed fingers (caused by trying to save me in the fall) to pick up my dishes at leasure which were scattered from one end to the other of his shop. I hope it will be a long time before I shall pay the cook a similar visit."