The Young Woman's Journal, official
The Young Woman's Journal, official organ of the Young Ladies' Mutual Improvement Association, began publication. It was merged with the Improvement Era in 1929.
443 entries in this era, shown 200 to a page. This is page 2 of 3, covering 1889 to 1898. See the same material on the moving timeline.
1889
Wilford Woodruff was sustained as the fourth Church president
Wilford Woodruff was sustained as the fourth Church president.
Wilfred Woodruff History
Issued the Manifesto.
Young Woman's Journal began publication
Young Woman's Journal began publication.
1890
"Manifesto" is issued regarding plural marriage
"Manifesto" is issued regarding plural marriage.
1890 edition titled Manchester Hymnal
This edition was created in Salt Lake City, UT, USA and was compiled by an unknown person. There were 369 Hymns in this edition. At the time it was edition number 20.
A meeting of the Twelve Apostles
A meeting of the Twelve Apostles is called by Lorenzo Snow with the agenda of achieving greater unity among themselves. Moses Thatcher says, "The hope of our becoming one has given me more joy than anything I can think of. If we can become as one it will be a glorious thing. The First Presidency are one and if we can become one and then become one with the First Presidency it will be the beginning of the establishment of the Kingdom of God, preparatory for the coming of our Lord and Master Jesus Christ . . ." Thatcher is dropped from the Quorum in 1896.
Both U.S. Senate and House propose
Both U.S. Senate and House propose bills to disfranchise all Mormons. With delaying tactics by Mormon allies in Congress, these two bills make slow progress into summer, but Supreme Court decision in Feb. 1890 assures eventual enactment.
Canada's Dominion Parliament passes the Thompson Bill defining polygamy as a crime
Canada's Dominion Parliament passes the Thompson Bill defining polygamy as a crime.
Federal grand jury in Idaho indicts
Federal grand jury in Idaho indicts 153 ex-Mormons for voting in recent election.
Federal officials indicate that they intend
Federal officials indicate that they intend to confiscate LDS temples. Presidents Woodruff and Cannon soon leave for San Francisco to avoid subpoena to testify.
First Presidency publicly establishes Religion Classes
First Presidency publicly establishes Religion Classes. America's first experiment in separate weekday religious training for public school students. This elementary level program merges with LDS Primary program in May 1929. Seminaries for LDS high school students are spin-off which lasts longer than the innovative Religion Classes.
First Presidency sets apart John Hafen,
First Presidency sets apart John Hafen, Lorus Pratt, and John B. Fairbanks as "art missionaries" to study in France in order to paint murals in interior of Salt Lake temple. They reach Paris on July 24. They are joined by Edwin Evans and Herman H. Haag. Enrolled in Julian Acadamy, the art missionaries return to Salt Lake City in 1892 and complete the temple murals. They are not first formally trained Mormon artists, because C. C. A. Christensen (b. 1831) and Danquart A. Weggeland (b. 1827) borh trained at Royal Academy of Art in Copenhagen. Contemporary with these art missionaries are three Julian Academy sculptors of Mormon background. Brigham Young's grandson Mahonri M. Young wins silver medal at Panama-Pacific International Exposition in 1915, creates statue of Brigham Young in U. S. Capitol, and sculpts Salt Lake Temple Square monuments to Joseph Smith, Hyrum Smith, and Miracle of the Seagulls. Cyrus E. Dallin wins gold medal at Panama Exposition and sculpts Angel Moroni statue atop Salt Lake temple and also creates pioneer monument. Least identified with his Mormon parentage of the three, Gutzon Borglum designs and sculpts Mt. Rushmore National Memorial.
George Reynolds is sustained as first
George Reynolds is sustained as first convicted felon to become general authority.
In 1890 there were 283 missionaries
In 1890 there were 283 missionaries called to serve.
In a meeting of Apostles who discuss the recently released Manifesto of Wilford Woodruff
In a meeting of Apostles who discuss the recently released Manifesto of Wilford Woodruff Heber J. Grant says, "I approve of the Manifesto and feel that it is merely a public announcement of the course which we had already in our private councils decided to adopt and this being the case I do not know why we should not receive any possible benefits which may arise from a public declaration. Yet I believe greater trouble will follow the prominent Elders in the Church through the adoption of this policy. If this plan had been accepted in the beginning of this crusade the nation would not have been tried as it has been and would not be worthy of condemnation such as it now merits, hence I feel this has come at a proper time." Apostle Franklin D. Richards notes, "how the Lord had suspended the operations of His laws in various occasions & held the enemies of his Church responsible for the same."
Official Declaration 1
Under federal prosecution and the seizure of Church property, President Wilford Woodruff announces an end to new plural marriages. Utah is admitted as a state in 1896.
Official Declaration 1, discontinuing plural marriage, was announced
Official Declaration 1, discontinuing plural marriage, was announced.
Official Declaration OD—1 was given to Wilford Woodruff (declaration) in matters relating to thecessation
Official Declaration OD—1 was given to Wilford Woodruff (declaration) in matters relating to thecessation of plural marriage
Official Declaration—1 issued by Wilford Woodruff, officially ending the practice of polygamy
Official Declaration—1 issued by Wilford Woodruff, officially ending the practice of polygamy.
President Wilford Woodruff issued the "Manifesto,"
President Wilford Woodruff issued the "Manifesto," now included in the Doctrine and Covenants as Official Declaration — 1, that declared that no new plural marriages had been entered into with Church approval in the past year, denied that plural marriage had been taught during that time, declared the intent of the president of the Church to submit to the constitutional law of the land, and advised members of the Church to refrain from contracting any marriage forbidden by law.
President Wilford Woodruff's Manifesto ending plural marriage accepted at General Conference
President Wilford Woodruff's Manifesto ending plural marriage accepted at General Conference.
The "Manifesto" was unanimously accepted by vote in general conference
The "Manifesto" was unanimously accepted by vote in general conference. This marked the beginning of reconciliation between the Church and the United States, which effectively paved the way to statehood for Utah a little more than five years later.
The 1890 Church Membership 188,263
1890 Church Membership 188,263
The Conductor of the Mormon Tabernacle
The Conductor of the Mormon Tabernacle Chior is Evan Stephens. Directed the choir for its first recording, and was the first employed full-time.
The DESERET WEEKLY NEWS states, concerning
The DESERET WEEKLY NEWS states, concerning the recently issued Manifesto, "There is nothing in President Woodruff's declaration in regard to faith, or doctrine, or tenets, but it contains a volume in a few words as to practice."
The Dutch edition of the Book
This translation of O le Tusi a Mamona was done for Samoa. Reference information: Anderson, Kai A. (June 1997), "In His Own Language", Liahona: 29,
The First Presidency sent a letter
The First Presidency sent a letter to stake presidents and bishops directing that a week-day religious education program be established in every ward where there was not a Church school. It was recommended that classes be taught, under the direction of the Church's General Board of Education, after school hours or on Saturdays .
U.S. Senate bill to deny all
U.S. Senate bill to deny all Mormons any right to homestead public lands.
U.S. Supreme Court upholds the Edmunds-Tucker
U.S. Supreme Court upholds the Edmunds-Tucker Act and confiscation of LDS properties ruling that the LDS church had engaged in illegal activities; committee of U.S. Senate recommends disfranchisement bill. President Wilford Woodruff writes "The Supreme Court of the United States Decided to day Against the Church . . . .This is turning the Last key that will seal the Condemnation of this Nation."
Weekday religious education program letter sent to stake leaders
Weekday religious education program letter sent to stake leaders.
With another Welsh Latter-day Saint, Evan
With another Welsh Latter-day Saint, Evan Stephens, at the helm, the Mormon Tabernacle Choirs grows dramatically in size and begins to tour both nationally and internationally. Also during Stephens's tenure, the choir loft is installed at the west end of the Tabernacle.
1891
1891 edition titled Manchester Hymnal
This edition was created in Salt Lake City, UT, USA and was compiled by an unknown person. There were 370 Hymns in this edition. At the time it was edition number 21.
At a meeting of the First
At a meeting of the First Presidency and Twelve President Wilford Woodruff says, concerning the necessity of the Manifesto "The Lord God will hold this Nation responsible for the persecutions of the saints have had to pass through."
At the first triennial meeting
At the first triennial meeting of the National Council of Women of the United States, the Relief Society attended and became a charter member of that council.
Dissolution of church-controlled People's Party which instructs its members to join one
Dissolution of church-controlled People's Party which instructs its members to join one of the two national parties, Democratic or Republican.
First Presidency and Quorum of Twelve
First Presidency and Quorum of Twelve Apostles consider this question: "Shall the Priesthood nominate and the people accept, or shall the people nominate?" The decision of the meeting: "It is quite proper for the brethren before making appointments to consult with local authorities and be sure to select men for position whom the people will gladly sustain" to offices of bishop, stake president, and patriarch.
First Presidency learns that U.S. solicitor
First Presidency learns that U.S. solicitor general and Utah's district attorney have formally agreed "to let loose of our TEMPLE."
In 1891 there were 331 missionaries
In 1891 there were 331 missionaries called to serve.
In an interview published in the Salt Lake Times
In an interview published in the Salt Lake Times, President Wilford Woodruff says that the church would not claim "the right to control the political action of the members of our body." But in private conversation with Brigham Young, Jr., he says that though he was cautious about influencing "his brethren in political…matters" he was willing to do so "when prompted by others in whom he has the utmost confidence."
Netherlands-Belgium mission is created
Netherlands-Belgium mission is created
New Brigham Young Academy building dedicated at Provo
New Brigham Young Academy building dedicated at Provo.
Relief Society articles of incorporation filed
Relief Society articles of incorporation filed.
Relief Society attended the National Council of Women meeting
Relief Society attended the National Council of Women meeting.
The 1891 Church Membership 195,445
1891 Church Membership 195,445
The First Presidency's Office Journal records
The First Presidency's Office Journal records that President Wilford Woodruff stated "that the manifesto was just as authoritative and binding as though it had been given in the form of 'Thus saith the Lord,' and that its affecting unlawful cohabitation cases was but the logical sequence of its scope and intent regarding polygamous marriages, as the laws of the land forbid both, and that therefore, although he at the time did not perceive the far-reaching effect it would have, no other ground could be taken than that which he had taken and be consistent with the position the manifesto had placed us in."
Utah Woman's Press Club organized
Utah Woman's Press Club organized.
Utah's People's Party dissolved; members join national Democratic or Republican parties
Utah's People's Party dissolved; members join national Democratic or Republican parties.
1892
A resolution is presented to general
A resolution is presented to general conference and passes unanimously to create "an institution of learning of high grade, to be officially named, 'The University of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints,' but to be commonly called and designated the 'Church University.'"
Articles of incorporation for the Relief
Articles of incorporation for the Relief Society were filed, after which it became known as the National Women's Relief Society. The name was again changed in 1945 to Relief Society of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
At Z.C.M.I. director's meeting Apostle Moses
At Z.C.M.I. director's meeting Apostle Moses Thatcher offers to resign as a director but backs out when his offer is accepted.
California mission is created
California mission is created
First baptism for the dead performed in the Salt Lake Temple
First baptism for the dead performed in the Salt Lake Temple.
First verified letter from First Presidency
First verified letter from First Presidency authorizing Apostle George Teasdale, president of Mexican colonies, to perform polygamous marriage there.
In 1892 there were 324 missionaries
In 1892 there were 324 missionaries called to serve.
Mormon outlaw Robert LeRoy Parker is arrested on a horse-theft complaint
Mormon outlaw Robert LeRoy Parker is arrested on a horse-theft complaint. The arresting officer, Bob Calverly, reports: "I told him I had a warrant for him and he said: 'Well get to shooting,' and with that we pulled our guns. I put the barrel of my revolver almost to his stomach, but it missed three times, but owing to the fact that there was another man between us, he failed to hit me. The fourth time I snapped the gun it went off and the bullet hit him in the upper part of the forehead and felled him. I then had him and he made no further resistance." Parker, better known as "Butch Cassidy" is acquitted.
President Wilford Woodruff writes in his dairy: "Plesant this morning
President Wilford Woodruff writes in his dairy: "Plesant this morning. I gave several Permits to go on to the Temple Tower. I went to the Temple & Examined the Bronze Angel for the Top Stone of the Temple 13 feet high & about 1,500 lbs in weight. I examind the Elevator to go to the top which looked safe." The capstone is laid on April 6, exactly one year before the dedication.
Salt Lake Temple dedicated by President Wilford Woodruff
Salt Lake Temple dedicated by President Wilford Woodruff.
Sister Sarah M. Kimball
Sister Sarah M. Kimball, signs the following statement: "At a Relief Society Meeting held April 28, 1842, I heard the Prophet Joseph make this statement. While other leading men of the Church have been unrighteously aspiring, Heber C. Kimball has been true and is to me what John was to Jesus, my beloved disciple. Brother Kimball showed me a rod that the Lord through the Prophet Joseph had given to him. He said that when he wanted to find out anything that was his right to know, all he had to do was to kneel down with the rod in his hand, and that sometimes the Lord would answer his questions before he had time to ask them. My mother and my sister, Helen Mar, told me the same thing and added to it, that Pres. Young received a similar rod from the Lord at the same time. They claimed that these rods were given to them because they were the only ones of the original Twelve who had not lifted up their heels against the Prophet."
Society Islands mission is created
Society Islands mission is created
The 1892 Church Membership 200,961
1892 Church Membership 200,961
The new Brigham Young Academy building
The new Brigham Young Academy building at Provo, Utah, was dedicated.
U.S. President Benjamin Harrison issued an amnesty proclamation
U.S. President Benjamin Harrison issued an amnesty proclamation.
1893
At session of Salt Lake temple
At session of Salt Lake temple dedication, "Pres Woodruff said there would never be an hour when these apostles will be divided from now until the coming of the Son of Man."
Eastern States mission is created
Eastern States mission is created
First Counselor George Q. Cannon sends
First Counselor George Q. Cannon sends a telegram from England to Salt Lake City with the single word "UNSUCCESSFUL" for the message. Cannon had met with Baron Rothschild, his brothers, and other leading financiers in search of a long term loan for the Church, but the prevailing American panic and the European ignorance of Utah affairs made a loan impossible. After reading the telegram Apostle Francis M Lyman writes: "This word is very discouraging. Money matters are very tight, banks and mercantile institutions are going broke on every hand."
First national recognition of Mormon Tabernacle
First national recognition of Mormon Tabernacle Choir which receives second prize of $1,000 at Chicago World's Fair. Wilford Woodruff writes: "I think without Doubt that our Quire Choir was the Best & should have had the first Prize But the Quire that took the first Prize was Welsh and the Welsh furnished the Money And it Could hardly be Expected that they would give it to a Mormon Quire."
First Presidency and Council of Apostles
First Presidency and Council of Apostles meet with "the Stake Presidents, Bishops, and other Priesthood leaders" in the newly dedicated Salt Lake Temple. On the first day of meetings "the Twelve Apostles were called upon to express their feelings towards the First Presidency and each other and to the Church and all the world." Francis M. Lyman says, "The Prophet never goes astray, counselors always right when they are one with the head." There is general gladness expressed that the Apostles and presidency are united again.
First Presidency and Twelve meet and Apostle "Moses Thatcher was felt not to be
First Presidency and Twelve meet and Apostle "Moses Thatcher was felt not to be in harmony with the first presidency. He partly conceded he was wrong but did not go far enough." Thatcher is dropped from the quorum three years later.
Francis M. Lyman writes, "This is the most difficult mission bro
Francis M. Lyman writes, "This is the most difficult mission bro. Heber has ever undertaken, now that financial affairs are tumbling in all directions." The church was $500,000 in debt with no prospect of paying in time. Heber J. Grant had left for New York to see if the loans could be extended. He was successful.
In 1893 there were 317 missionaries
In 1893 there were 317 missionaries called to serve.
In an effort to rescue the Church's financial situation President Wilford Woodruff authorizes
In an effort to rescue the Church's financial situation President Wilford Woodruff authorizes the borrowing of money by the Church from members at 10 percent interest.
In response to an invitation from the Chicago World's Fair
In response to an invitation from the Chicago World's Fair, the choir performs its first public concert in a non-religious setting.
Last day of dedicatory services for Salt Lake Temple
Last day of dedicatory services for Salt Lake Temple. Dedication began on Apr 6. Apostle Marriner W. Merrill writes: " I was first speaker and spoke 15 minutes. I took Almira up on the elevator to the upper room and after meeting took her down through Temple in all the rooms."
Lorenzo Snow History
Salt Lake Temple dedicated.
Mormon Tabernacle Choir takes second place at the Chicago World's Fair (Evan Stephens, conductor)
Mormon Tabernacle Choir takes second place at the Chicago World's Fair (Evan Stephens, conductor).
President Benjamin Harrison grants amnesty to polygamists
President Benjamin Harrison grants amnesty to polygamists.
President Grover Cleveland signed a resolution,
President Grover Cleveland signed a resolution, passed by Congress, for the return of the personal property of the Church. Three years later, on March 28, 1896, a memorial passed by Congress and approved by the president provided for the restoration of the Church's real estate.
President Wilford Woodruff meets with the Council of the Twelve and the Church's four
President Wilford Woodruff meets with the Council of the Twelve and the Church's four temple presidents, spending "three hours in harmanizing the Different Modes? of Ceremonies in giving Endowments"
Salt Lake Tabernacle Choir won second prize at the Chicago World's Fair
Salt Lake Tabernacle Choir won second prize at the Chicago World's Fair.
Salt Lake Temple
Salt Lake Temple was dedicated 6–24 April 1893 by Wilford Woodruff.
Salt Lake Temple dedicated
Granite blocks hauled by ox team from Little Cottonwood Canyon take four decades to raise. The dedication falls on April 6, the anniversary of the Church’s organization.
Suicide of businessman William H. Jennings,
Suicide of businessman William H. Jennings, first prominent Utah Mormon male to commit suicide. This is during national economic depression which bankrupts many Utahns. George A. Mears, another "financially ruined" Salt Lake City businessman and "a friend of the 'Mormons'" also commits suicide on July 8.
The 1893 Church Membership 214,534
1893 Church Membership 214,534
The Apostles meet for the first
The Apostles meet for the first time in the newly-dedicated Salt Lake Temple. Apostle Anthon H. Lund records "Apostle George Teasdale... The Lord had shown him many manifestations that had been strengthening to him. He loved Brother Woodruff like a father yet the Lord had shown him that he was to be adopted to the Prophet Joseph and on a new-years day he was given to Eliza R. Snow, wife of Joseph as son. He had at once felt a love as son to a mother."
The Choir completes its first major
The Choir completes its first major tour to the Chicago World’s Fair and Expositions contest. It won second place in the contest with a cash award of $1,000.
The Church fails to meet its
The Church fails to meet its payroll, forcing General Authorities to draw their living allowances in tithing commodities. Economic depression hits Utah hard and has First Counselor George Q. Cannon meeting with financiers in London (including Baron Rothschild) and Apostle Heber J. Grant meeting with bankers in New York to secure a loan to see the Church through the hard times. The First Presidency writes: "Every day urgent demands for cash are made of us, which we cannot meet for the simple reason that we have no money. . . . We never saw such a time of financial stringency as there is now."
The first ordinance work, baptisms for the dead, was performed in the Salt Lake Temple
The first ordinance work, baptisms for the dead, was performed in the Salt Lake Temple. On May 24, the first endowment work and sealings were performed.
The First Presidency and Apostles discuss
The First Presidency and Apostles discuss "the propriety of calling on 100 men to loan to the church 1000 each or more to relieve the church of its weighty obligations. The discussion of the subject was chiefly against the plan lest it should precipitate a panic by drawing at this time such an amount from the banks. It was thought better for the banks to carry us quietly along till some relief should come in from some other direction." Apostle Francis M. Lyman writes: "My name was down for 1000 and it transpires that I have already years ago loaned the church 1000 at 8% per annum. It is the amount I put into the Deseret Investment Co. The question was postponed for one week. The pressure upon the church is very great just now. The Lord will have to come to our rescue or we will be compelled into Bankruptcy."
The First Presidency reviews and edits
The First Presidency reviews and edits a dedicatory prayer written by Franklin D. Richards, to be given by President Wilford Woodruff at the dedication of the Salt Lake Temple on Apr. 6.
The President of the United States,
The President of the United States, Benjamin Harrison, issued a proclamation of amnesty to all polygamists who had entered into that relationship before Nov. 1, 1890. The Utah Commission soon ruled that voting restrictions in the territory should be removed.
The Salt Lake Tabernacle Choir, while
The Salt Lake Tabernacle Choir, while competing in the choral contest at the Chicago World's Fair, won second prize ($1,000). While on this tour, the choir also held concerts at Denver, Colo.; Independence, Kansas City and St. Louis, Mo.; and Omaha, Neb. The First Presidency, consisting of Wilford Woodruff, George Q. Cannon and Joseph F. Smith, accompanied the choir.
The Salt Lake Temple was dedicated by President
The Salt Lake Temple was dedicated by President Wilford Woodruff. The dedicatory services were repeated almost daily until April 24 with a total of 31 services held.
The Salt Lake Temple was dedicated by Wilford Woodruff
The Salt Lake Temple was dedicated by Wilford Woodruff.
Two days after the dedication of the Salt Lake Temple Apostle Marriner W
Two days after the dedication of the Salt Lake Temple Apostle Marriner W. Merrill writes: "A baby boy was born in the Temple last night at 10 p. m., Mrs. Benjamin F. Bennett of Provo the mother."
U.S. President Grover Cleveland signs congressional
U.S. President Grover Cleveland signs congressional resolution for return of church's confiscated monies and personal property. Utah Supreme Court returns these properties to church authorities on Jan. 10, 1894.
Wilford Woodruff dedicated Salt Lake temple,
Wilford Woodruff dedicated Salt Lake temple, forty years after its cornerstone-laying twice the time it took to build the Great Pyramid at Giza, Egypt. It is largest LDS temple ever build, with 253,105 square feet of floor space.
Wilfred Woodruff History
Inaugurated weekday religious education classes, a precursor to seminary and institute programs.
1894
1894 edition titled Manchester Hymnal
This edition was created in Salt Lake City, UT, USA and was compiled by an unknown person. There were 354 Hymns in this edition. At the time it was edition number 2.
At meeting of First Presidency and apostles
At meeting of First Presidency and apostles, Wilford Woodruff announces revelation which ends practice of adopting (sealing) men to LDS leaders. He instructs Mormons to seal each generation of ancestors to preceding generation. This results in program of genealogical research. His published sermon is only available text of the revelation. Old form of adoption ordinance continues sporadically in LDS temples with high of fifteen adoptions ceremonies in 1910. The revelation is never canonized.
Death of Thomas C Sharp, principal
Death of Thomas C Sharp, principal conspirator in murder of Joseph and Hyrum Smith. He has had a successful career as mayor, judge, school principal and newspaper editor.
First Presidency letter to "Elder Lorenzo
First Presidency letter to "Elder Lorenzo Snow, Prest. Salt Lake Temple" includes the instructions: "The words 'that my tongue be torn from its roots in my mouth,' were substituted for 'from the roof of my mouth.' In giving the sign and token of the Aaronic priesthood that Salt Lake Temple use the word, 'index', meaning the fore-finger. It was decided to use the words, 'fore finger,' instead of 'index finger,' the latter being more easily understood. It has been the practice to mark the shirt, but we think this unnecessary as it is not strictly a part of the Temple clothing. The marking of the garment should be done in the washing room and not at the veil; and the greatest care should be taken to see that no person is permitted to leave that room wearing an unmarked garment." The letter is signed by Wilford Woodruff, Geo. Q. Cannon, and Jos. F. Smith
First time a woman has spoken
First time a woman has spoken in the Salt Lake Tabernacle on the Sabbath at the regular service- the people don't know what to make of it-it must bode good for women. The speaker is a non-Mormon.
Genealogical Society of Utah organized
Genealogical Society of Utah organized.
In 1894 there were 162 missionaries
In 1894 there were 162 missionaries called to serve.
Jewish boy gives his bar mitzvah
Jewish boy gives his bar mitzvah talk in LDS stake conference "in confirmation of his faith in the Jewish religion."
Mormon outlaw Robert LeRoy Parker, also
Mormon outlaw Robert LeRoy Parker, also known as Butch Cassidy, is sentenced to two years hard labor in Wyoming penitentiary for horse theft. This charge is different than the one for which he was arrested two years previously. This is the only jail sentence Parker/Cassidy ever serves.
News of failure of Cannon, Grant,
News of failure of Cannon, Grant, and Company, holding company for church finance: "Every dollar we invested is swept away and we are left penniless." General authorities recon their losses at $100,000 for George Q. Cannon, $75,00 for Heber J. Grant, and $25,000 each for Joseph F. Smith, Francis M. Lyman, John Henry Smith, and Abraham H. Cannon. Unable to shoulder such losses, the men keep company technically afloat until July 20, 1898, when they ask Trustee-in-Trust to save it.
Of "O My Father," President Wilford
Of "O My Father," President Wilford Woodruff tells general conference: "That hymn is a revelation, though it was given unto us by a woman--Sister Eliza R. Snow."
President Grover Cleveland issued a proclamation
President Grover Cleveland issued a proclamation granting pardons and restoring civil rights to those who had been disfranchised under anti-polygamy laws.
President Grover Cleveland signed an act
President Grover Cleveland signed an act that provided for statehood for Utah. This culminated 47 years of effort on the part of Mormons in Utah to achieve this status.
President Wilford Woodruff announced in general conference that he had received a revelation
President Wilford Woodruff announced in general conference that he had received a revelation that ended the law of adoption. The law of adoption was the custom of being sealed to prominent Church leaders instead of direct ancestors. He re-emphasized the need for genealogical research and sealings along natural family lines. With the termination of this type of sealings, genealogical work to trace direct ancestry increased among the members of the Church.
President Wilford Woodruff relates, "In searching
President Wilford Woodruff relates, "In searching out my genealogy I found about four hundred of my female kindred who were never married. I asked Pres. Young what I should do with them. He said for me to have them sealed to me unless there were more than 999 of them. The doctrine startled me, but I had it done."
The 1894 Church Membership 222,369
1894 Church Membership 222,369
The genealogical society of the Church,
The genealogical society of the Church, known as the Genealogical Society of Utah, was organized.
U.S. president Grover Cleveland signs Utah
U.S. president Grover Cleveland signs Utah enabling act allowing Utah to become a state. Wilford Woodruff writes: " This has been a hard Struggle for years as it had Seemed as though all Earth & Hell had been Combined against the Latter Day Saints Having a State Government. And now we have to Give God the Glory for our admission into the Union."
Wilford Woodruff announced the end of the law of adoption
Wilford Woodruff announced the end of the law of adoption.
Wilford Woodruff instructs conference priesthood meeting
Wilford Woodruff instructs conference priesthood meeting that all presiding officers should live Word of Wisdom, and he threatens to drop Presiding Patriarch John Smith for office if he continues using tobacco and alcohol.
Wilford Woodruff writes in his journal:
Wilford Woodruff writes in his journal: "I had a Dream in the night. I met with Benjamin Franklin. I thought He was on the Earth. I spent several hours with him And talked over our Endowments. He wanted some more work done for him than had been done which I promised him He should have 2d anointing. I thought then He died and while waiting for burial I awoke. I thought vary strange of my Dream. I made up my mind to get 2d Anointing for Benjamin Franklin & George Washington."
Wilfred Woodruff History
Born in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Andrew Kimball and Olive Woolley.
1895
At the Utah Constitutional Convention B.
At the Utah Constitutional Convention B. H. Roberts, President of First Quorum of Seventy, argues against women's sufferage."
At Utah Democratic convention, "women are
At Utah Democratic convention, "women are delegates in about equal number with men."
By a vote of 31,305 to 7,687
By a vote of 31,305 to 7,687, the people of Utah ratified the constitution and approved statehood. The documents were later hand-delivered to President Grover Cleveland.
Dr. Martha Hughes Cannon becomes the first woman in the U.S
Dr. Martha Hughes Cannon becomes the first woman in the U.S. elected a state senator.
First Presidency and Apostles discuss B.
First Presidency and Apostles discuss B. H. Roberts's opposition to equal suffrage at recent State Constitutional convention. "Brother Roberts had been sent for And told by Presidents Wilford Woodruff and Joseph F. Smith their wishes and requested not to be active in his opposition to the suffrage clause as it was in the interests of the people to have the suffrage clause approved and made a part of the Constitution." Equal suffrage would increase the percentage of Mormon voters.
Heber J. Grant writes: "This evening
Heber J. Grant writes: "This evening Gusta and I attended the meeting held in the interests of the Woman's suffrage cause in the Assembly Hall. Susan B. Anthony. Rev. Anna Shaw and others addressed the meeting. I was pleased with all that was said, but was amused beyond expression by Miss Shaw's address. It was brim full and running over with good things and delivered with force and ability She has a very amusing way of telling things and I do not think that I ever laughed so much in a half hour before in my life as I did when she was showing up some of the absurdities of those apposed to woman's suffrage."
In 1895 there were 526 missionaries
In 1895 there were 526 missionaries called to serve.
Johan and Alma Lindelof were baptized
Johan and Alma Lindelof were baptized in St. Petersburg, Russia.
The 1895 Church Membership 231,116
1895 Church Membership 231,116
The First Presidency and Twelve meet
The First Presidency and Twelve meet in the Salt Lake Temple and "we took up the subcjet of H B B. H. Roberts & Moses Thatcher Advocating Subject in the statehood Convention against our interest." Wilford Woodruff states that B.H. Roberts "had done the saints more harm in his Speeches in the Convention than all the liberal element in the city." Roberts had vigorously opposed women suffrage which was favored by the First Presidency.
The first stake in Mexico
The first stake in Mexico, the Juarez Stake, was organized in the English-speaking Mormon colonies in northern Mexico.
The first stake outside the U.S
The first stake outside the U.S. is organized in Cardston, Canada.
The first stake outside the United
The first stake outside the United States was created in Canada in Cardston, Alberta.
The Utah Constitutional Convention met in Salt Lake City
The Utah Constitutional Convention met in Salt Lake City. John Henry Smith, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve, was elected president of that convention.
Utah territorial convention with Apostle John
Utah territorial convention (with Apostle John Henry Smith as president) drafts proposed state constitution which includes women’s suffrage. Convention completes proposed constitution on May 8, and Congress accepts it.
Wilford Woodruff tells conference, "Cease troubling
Wilford Woodruff tells conference, "Cease troubling yourselves about who God is; who Adam is, who Christ is, who Jehovah is. For heaven's sake, let these things alone."
1896
1896 edition titled Latter-day Saints' Psalmody
This edition was created in Salt Lake City, UT, USA and was compiled by an unknown person. There were 370 Hymns in this edition. At the time it was edition number 22.
After the funeral Apostle John Henry
After the funeral Apostle John Henry Smith attends a meeting concerning Apostle Moses Thatcher, "It was stated by Moses Thatcher Jr. that he was adicted to the Morphine habbit and part of the time insane and that they must do something for him. . . . It was finally agreed to get him if possible to go of his own free will to a sanatarium in California, if he refused to do so then to insist on sending him any way."
After walking the streets all night
After walking the streets all night and wrestling with the dilemma of sacrificing principle or being stripped of his Church blessings, B. H. Roberts, just hours before the deadline, decides to sign and is accepted back into fellowship.
All general authorities except Apostle Moses
All general authorities except Apostle Moses Thatcher sign political manifesto which requires church officers to obtain permission before seeking political office. Thatcher refuses to sign, and his name is not presented for sustaining vote of conference and he is dropped from the Quorum of Twelve.
At meeting of First Presidency and Twelve Apostles, "President Geo
At meeting of First Presidency and Twelve Apostles, "President Geo. Q. Cannon made the statement that as Bro B. H. Roberts had not been in harmony with his brethren and that a feel of dissension had spread through the church on account of some of Bro. Roberts speeches. That all his brethren wanted of him was to show a broken heart and contrite spirit, which Bro. Roberts did. We took him into our fellowship. He with the others present shed tears of joy at the change in his spirit. . . .President George Q. Cannon requested the Saints to quit exhibiting their dead in public."
At priesthood leadership conference, Wilford Woodruff
At priesthood leadership conference, Wilford Woodruff asks "all those that had money to spare to loan it to the Trustee in Trust to assist the Church."
B. H. Roberts writes a letter
B. H. Roberts writes a letter to church leaders: "My Dear Brethren: -- I submit to the authority of God in the brethren. While I can not for I the life of me think of anything in which I have not acted in all good conscience out of an honest heart, yet seeing they think I am in the wrong I will bow to them, and place myself in their hands as the servants of God. This day thirty nine years ago I first saw the light, and now after this struggle I feel lighter. I thank you for your goodness to me. Truly your brother, B.H. Roberts." He had been suspended for not agreeing to the "Political Manifesto" which requires all church leaders to get permission before seeking political office.
Colorado mission is created
Colorado mission is created
De Ster (The Star) published in Rotterdam, Holland
De Ster (The Star) published in Rotterdam, Holland.
Fast day is changed to the first Sunday of the month instead of Thursday
Fast day is changed to the first Sunday of the month instead of Thursday.
First Presidency and Quorum of Twelve
First Presidency and Quorum of Twelve "met in Council at the Salt Lake Temple. The case of B. H. Roberts for insubordination was considered and we agreed to meet on Thursday next. He is to be required to humble himself and put himself in proper shape before the people." Roberts ran for Congress without first getting permission from Church leaders.
First Presidency is informed that Apostle
First Presidency is informed that Apostle Moses Thatcher "has now spent 27 out of 60 days in treatment by an expert in the Keely cure necessary to overcome the morphine habit & are asked that brother Moses Thatcher may be permitted to continue undisturbed in his treatment until the 60 days expire; which was most cordially granted."
First stake in Mexico organized in Juarez
First stake in Mexico organized in Juarez.
First stake outside the United States created in Cardston, Canada
First stake outside the United States created in Cardston, Canada.
Genealogical Society of Utah organized
Genealogical Society of Utah organized.
Guglielmo Marconi granted the world's first patent for wireless telegraphy
Guglielmo Marconi granted the world's first patent for wireless telegraphy.
Heber J. Grant History
Utah achieves statehood.
In 1896 there were 746 missionaries
In 1896 there were 746 missionaries called to serve.
Johan and Alma Lindelof baptized in St
Johan and Alma Lindelof baptized in St. Petersburg, Russia.
Joseph Fielding Smith History
Utah received statehood; Heber J. Grant considered as candidate for the first governorship of the state.
Montana mission is created
Montana mission is created
People of Utah ratified the constitution approving statehood
People of Utah ratified the constitution approving statehood.
President Cleveland issued a proclamation granting pardons
President Cleveland issued a proclamation granting pardons.
President Cleveland signed the act providing for Utah statehood
President Cleveland signed the act providing for Utah statehood.
President Cleveland signed the proclamation admitting Utah to the Union
President Cleveland signed the proclamation admitting Utah to the Union.
President Grover Cleveland signed the proclamation
President Grover Cleveland signed the proclamation that admitted Utah to the Union as the 45th state. Until statehood, the affairs of the Church in the Utah Territory had been closely associated with the affairs of the civil government. With statehood and the rights of self-government secured to the people, the Church could become separate from political struggles.
President Wilford Woodruff "spent the day
President Wilford Woodruff "spent the day in the office and talked over our Church Debts & how to settle them. F S Richards Just Notified me that the Government had sent back our Real Estate Property to salt Lake City to be dismissed by the Court & the property turned over to the Trustee in trust."
Second Counselor in the First Presidency
Second Counselor in the First Presidency Joseph F. Smith presents the "Political Manifesto" before the Cache Stake Conference, in Logan, Utah. He asks for a show of hands: " I don't want anybody to fail to vote because of fear, or because of any other reason. If they have made up their mind one way or the other, let them manifest, and let us see who are for the authorities of the church and who are not for them." About two-thirds of those present voted. From twenty to twenty-five hands were raised against it. Those voting against it included Moses Thatcher, jr., (son of the Apostle) and wife and others stood up and voted "No."
The 1896 Church Membership 241,427
1896 Church Membership 241,427
The Apostles appoint Franklin D. Richards
The Apostles appoint Franklin D. Richards and Brigham Young Jr. as a committee of two to visit fellow apostle Moses Thatcher "and ascertain from him what he had made his mind up to do." Later that day Richards and Young report that "they found him Thatcher dressed to go out to the Lake. He received them kindly but said he had undergone no change of sentiment as to the address. Both brethren were impressed with his cold, cunning spirit." Thatcher is unable to accept the recent "political manifesto" which requires all church leaders to get permission from the "proper authorities" before seeking political office. Thatcher felt that this was a means for the "proper authorities" to favor the Republican party over the Democrats. The Apostles "finally agreed to say to Bro. Moses he could meet us on the 22nd to answer to the charge of apostacy."
The Contributor ceases publication after the death of editor Abraham H
The Contributor ceases publication after the death of editor Abraham H. Cannon.
The First Presidency and Council of Twelve Apostles cannot agree on whether to try
The First Presidency and Council of Twelve Apostles cannot agree on whether to try Apostle Moses Thatcher for insubordination immediately or to wait until he is well. John Henry Smith says that an extenuating circumstance is that Thatcher is addicted to morphine and is "hardly a responsible man." Heber J. Grant points out that Thatcher's position "since he commenced using morphine was in perfect harmony with that which he occupied a number of years prior to becoming addicted to this habit." They decide to "labor with Apostle Moses Thatcher and learn if he is with us or against us." Thatcher is later dropped from the Council of Twelve Apostles.
The First Presidency issued a formal
The First Presidency issued a formal letter of instruction directing that the first Sunday in each month be observed as fast day, rather than the first Thursday, which had been observed as fast day since the early days of the Church in the Utah Territory.
Titles to the church's real estate
Titles to the church's real estate that had been attached by the federal government is turned over to President Wilford Woodruff, bringing to an end the confiscation proceedings that started with the Edmunds-Tucker Act.
U.S. President Grover Cleveland signs act
U.S. President Grover Cleveland signs act to return confiscated real estate of LDS church.
Utah becomes the forty-fifth state
Utah becomes the forty-fifth state.
Utah Constitutional Convention met in Salt Lake City
Utah Constitutional Convention met in Salt Lake City.
Wilford Woodruff writes in his journal,
Wilford Woodruff writes in his journal, "I spent most of the day in the Temple with the Apostles & we partook of the sacrament together. We talked over the Debts of the Church & our individual Debts all of which are pressing us very Heavily now."
Wilfred Woodruff History
Fast day changed from first Thursday to first Sunday of each month.
1897
1897 edition titled Manchester Hymnal
This edition was created in Salt Lake City, UT, USA and was compiled by an unknown person. There were 370 Hymns in this edition. At the time it was edition number 23.
At meeting of Quorum of Twelve,
At meeting of Quorum of Twelve, "Pres. Lorenzo Snow led out on Adam being our father and God. How beautiful the thought - it brought God nearer to us."
David O. Mckay History
Became member of general superintendency of Young Men's Mutual Improvement Association; became business manager of the Improvement Era, which he helped found.
First Presidency issued a letter establishing the first Sunday fast day.
First Presidency issued a letter establishing the first Sunday fast day.
Historian Andrew Jenson returned from a world tour
Historian Andrew Jenson returned from a world tour.
Historian Andrew Jenson returned to Salt
Historian Andrew Jenson returned to Salt Lake City after circling the world obtaining information for Church history.
In 1897 there were 922 missionaries
In 1897 there were 922 missionaries called to serve.
Northwestern States mission is created
Northwestern States mission is created
Organization of State Historical Society of Utah on fiftieth anniversary of arrival of first
Organization of State Historical Society of Utah on fiftieth anniversary of arrival of first Mormon pioneer wagons in Salt Lake Valley. Its first president is apostle and church historian Franklin D. Richards. In 1923 general authority Levi Edgar Young becomes first professionally trained historian to serve as president.
The 1897 Church Membership 255,736
1897 Church Membership 255,736
The Brigham Young statue in downtown
The Brigham Young statue in downtown Salt Lake City is unveiled as part of the Pioneer Jubilee celebrations. Wilford Woodruff unveils the statue: "In the name of God I unveil this statue." Catholic Bishop Lawrence L. Scanlan gives the Benediction.
The federal Edmunds-Tucker Act seizes all church property
The federal Edmunds-Tucker Act seizes all church property.
The Improvement Era began publication
The Improvement Era began publication as the official organ of the Young Men's Mutual Improvement Association. Other Church organizations later joined in sponsoring the monthly magazine, which continued as the official voice of the Church until 1970. It was replaced by the Ensign magazine.
The Improvement Era begins publication by the Mutual Improvement Associations
The Improvement Era begins publication by the Mutual Improvement Associations.
The jubilee anniversary of the arrival
The jubilee anniversary of the arrival of the Pioneers into the Salt Lake Valley was held in Salt Lake City for six days. The celebration began with the dedication by President Wilford Woodruff of the Brigham Young statue that would later stand at the intersection of Main and South Temple streets on July 20, and ended with a celebration for the Pioneers in the Tabernacle on July 24 and memorial services honoring all deceased Pioneers on July 25.
Wilford Woodruff writes in his diary:
Wilford Woodruff writes in his diary: "I received a copy of the Pioneer Programme for the 50th anniversary celebration of the arrival of the pioneers and read some of it, from which I felt outraged in my feelings and in the evening expressed myself vigorously as to the manner I have been treated. I am one of the first and oldest pioneers which with my position in the church Should entitle me to some consideration. Not one of my sons or any of my family have been asked to take any part in the pioneer proceedings, whilst the Clawsons and their friends and associates are into everything."
1898
A First Presidency statement encouraged Latter-day
A First Presidency statement encouraged Latter-day Saint youth to support the American effort in the Spanish-American War. This placed the Church firmly on the side of the war declarations of constituted governments and ended a policy of selective pacifism.
Arrival in British Mission of Amanda
Arrival in British Mission of Amanda Inez Knight and Lucy Jane Brimhall, first unmarried women to serve as full-time missionaries. Previously lady missionaries were married women who were set apart as companions to their husbands, usually mission presidents. On Mar. 16, George Q. Cannon had said that through missionary service of unmarried women, "some kind of solution would be found to the problem so often discussed, 'What shall we do with our girls?'"
Australian mission is created
Australian mission is created
Death of Wilford Woodruff, only Utah
Death of Wilford Woodruff, only Utah church president to die outside Utah (in San Francisco, California, at the home of non-Mormon Isaac Trumbo); buried in Salt Lake City. Lorenzo Snow has a vision in the Salt Lake Temple where Jesus Christ instructs him to organize a First Presidency. A new First Presidency is organized eleven days later. Each of the previous three times a church president had died it had taken from twenty months to over three years to organize a new First Presidency. Apostle Brigham Young Jr. writes I his journal: "Pres Woodruff has passed away far from home and in the house of one I cannot believe to be an honest man."
First Presidency statement supported the American Spanish-American War effort
First Presidency statement supported the American Spanish-American War effort.
First sister missionaries called
Inez Knight and Lucy Jane Brimhall are called to Britain as the first single women set apart for full-time proselytizing.
Four aged members of the Mormon
Four aged members of the Mormon Battalion took part in the 50th anniversary of the discovery of gold in California, which they had witnessed.
Four Mormon Battalion members participated in the gold discovery anniversary
Four Mormon Battalion members participated in the gold discovery anniversary.
George H. Hudson is first Mormon
George H. Hudson is first Mormon to die in combat during U.S. War. As private in Battery B of Utah Light Artillery, he is killed by Filipinos during Philippine Insurrection at conclusion of Spanish-American war of 1898. Filipinos want true independence, not to be new colony of the United States.