Mormon History, (Sat) Jun 8, 1839

-- (Sat) Jun 8, 1839
Sidney Rigdon's letter of May 27th is published in the "Quincy Whig." (1)

-- (Tue) Jun 11, 1839
Smith began dictating a new autobiography and Church history to his clerk, James Mulholland. Just as when the 1834-35 History was begun in the "Messenger and Advocate" in Kirtland, the writing of this 1839 History may have been spurred in part by the appearance of the Spalding authorship claims as an alternative explanation for the origin of Mormonism. (1)

-- Jun 11, 1839
Joseph begins work on what becomes the Manuscript History of the Church. (2)

The first house was put up by the Saints in Commerce, afterward named Nauvoo. (3)

James Mulholland records that Joseph Smith "commenced to dictate and I to write history" based on the 1838 history by clerk George Robinson. The new manuscript contains Joseph Smith's well-known account of his first vision "early in the spring of eighteen hundred and twenty." (4)

Commerce, Illinois. Joseph Smith began dictating his personal history to James Mulholland. (5)

[Joseph Smith] Resumed recording history with scribe James Mulholland, Commerce. (6)

-- Jun 23, 1839
McDonough County, Illinois. While visiting his brother Don Carlos Smith, Joseph Smith preached to a congregation so eager to hear that a part of them stood out in the rain during the sermon. (5)

-- (Thr) Jun 27, 1839
Orson Hyde was readmitted to the Church in a meeting of the Council of 12 in Commerce. (1)

-- 27Jun39
[Joseph Smith Sermon] Return of Orson Hyde D&C 129 Topics Joseph - First Principles Calling and Election - Temples First and Second Comforter After Second Comforter Obtained - Visitations Cultivating the Spirit of Revelation New Testament "Evangelist" (7)

-- Jun 27, 1839
Orson Hyde acknowledges his faults and is "restored to the Priesthood again." (2)

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." (4)

Hyde, Orson: Restored to former position 27 June 1839. (8)

Footnotes:
1 - Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm
2 - Kenny, Scott, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml
3 - Richards, Franklin Dewey and Little, James A., Compendium of the Doctrines of the Gospel, Church Chronology, Ch.66, p.306
4 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com
5 - BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith
6 - Jessee, Dean, Esplin, Ronald and Bushman, Richard Lyman (editors), The Joseph Smith Papers: Journals, Vol. 1: 1832-1839, Chronology for the Years 1832-1839
7 - The Parallel Joseph, http://www.boap.org/LDS/Parallel/
8 - Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985

LDS History Timeline

About this site: http://mormon-church-history.blogspot.com/2008/12/welcome-to-mormon-church-history.html

Mormon History, May 25, 1839

-- May 25, 1839
Smith, William B: Restored to fellowship 25 May 1839. (1)

-- (Sun) May 26, 1839
By this date (at the very latest) Rigdon had the May 18 issue of the Quincy Whig, with its "Origin of Mormonism" article quoting the Matilda Spalding Davison statement. (2)

-- (Mon) May 27, 1839
Sidney Rigdon writes his attack on proponents of the Spalding theory. (2)

-- May 27, 1839
Sidney Rigdon writes to the BOSTON JOURNAL emphatically denying the "Spaulding" story. Of Solomon Spaulding, whom he says he had never heard of until the story was publicized and who has been dead for two decades, Rigdon says he wrote "lies to get money" and that Rigdon has "but a very light opinion of him as a gentleman, a scholar, or a man of piety, for had he been either, he certainly would have taught his pious wife not to lie, nor unite herself with adulterers, liars, and the basest of mankind." (3)

-- c. 3o May (Thr) 1839
Smith was in Commerce until "the latter part of the week," when he went to Quincy with his "Counselors." (Hyrum Smith and Sidney Rigdon). Smith notes that he "continued to assist in making preparations to lay our grievances before the general government." As both Smith and Rigdon were in Quincy together at this time, it is possible that they hand delivered the Rigdon letter and other Mormon items for publication in the Whig. However, even a hand-delivered letter arriving near the end of the weeks might not make it into the Saturday newspaper. This may be why Rigdon's rebuttal letter was not published until the following Saturday (June 8th). (2)

-- During May 1839
Orson Hyde‘s Prophetic Warning, republished in Manchester, England. (4)

[Heber C. Kimball] Moves to Commerce (later Nauvoo), Illinois. (5)

[Missouri War] Nearly all the Saints have left Missouri. (6)

Young, Brigham: Moved to Montrose, Iowa, May 1839. (1)

-- (Sat) Jun 1, 1839
Letter of Robert B. Thompson (then working as a writer for the "Argus" ) and associates, probably written about May 31, 1839: "To the Editors of the Argus Gentlemen - Observing in the last weeks Whig, a communication over the names of Messrs. Rigdon and J. and H. Smith, in relation to the letters of Mr. Lyman Wight, which have lately appeared in that paper, and believing that the sentiments therein expressed, are in unison with those entertained by the body, of which we form a part, and feeling desirous to give publicity to the same, we should esteem it a favor if you would give it a place in your columns, and by so doing, you will oblige, Yours, Respectfully, JOHN P. GREENE, REYNOLDS CAHOON, R. B. THOMPSON. (2)

-- Jun 1, 1839
Quincy, Illinois. Joseph Smith held a conference and taught that bishops are the authorities God appointed to take care of the poor. (7)

-- Jun 2, 1839
[Sermon] Joseph Smith: The Priesthood - The Second Advent - The Gathering - Spiritual Ministrations and Manifestations, JD 6:237 - 240 (8)

-- (Wed) Jun 5, 1839
Smith returns to Commerce from Quincy. (2)

Footnotes:
1 - Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985
2 - Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm
3 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com
4 - Sherry Baker: Mormon Media History Timeline: 1827-2007, http://byustudies.byu.edu/showTitle.aspx?title=7984
5 - Kimball, Stanley B. (editor), On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball, Chronology, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1987
6 - LeSueur, Stephen C., The 1838 Mormon War in Missouri, Appendix: Chronology of Events in Missouri, 1838-1839
7 - BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith
8 - Journal of Discourses, http://jod.mrm.org

LDS History Timeline

About this site: http://mormon-church-history.blogspot.com/2008/12/welcome-to-mormon-church-history.html

Mormon History: (Sat) May 18, 1839

-- (Sat) May 18, 1839
Matilda Spalding Davison statement from the Boston Recorder (reprinted in the New York Observer) was published in the Quincy Whig. (1)
Smith finished his business at Quincy and starts back for Commerce. He probably leaves before the newspaper is printed that day. Thus he probably left town unaware of the Matilda Spalding Davison article in the Whig. (1)

-- May 18, 1839
Joseph Smith in Commerce, laying out the city [per Brigham Young]. (2)

[Wilford Woodruff] Moves family to Montrose, Iowa (3)

-- (Sun) May 19, 1839
Joseph Smith arrived back home in Commerce in the evening. (1)

-- About 19-May 20, 1839
Joseph Smith is in Commerce, laying out the city [Brigham Young]. (1)

-- May 19, 1839
Popular author Edward Bickersteth preaches a series of sermons (printed in 'The Time to Favour Zion; or, an Appeal to the Gentile Churches in Behalf of the Jews' 1840). He considers 'the signs of these latter days, which are preparatory steps to the establishment of Christ's kingdom."  He lists 4 steps:

         1.  The Consuming of Popery (Catholicism)
         2.  The Wasting of the Turkish Empire (which controlled Palestine), "that the mystical Babylon, or the Papal kingdoms, may fall, and the Jews return."
         3.  Preaching to the Gentiles. "The Preaching to the Gentiles fulfils that plain prophecy: 'I saw an angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting Gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation and kindred, and tongue, and people, saying with a loud voice, fear God and give glory to him, for the hour of his judgment is come, and worship him that made heaven and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.' And delightful, most delightful, is it, to witness the extended preaching of the Gospel through the world."
         4.  "The Preaching to the Jews,"  Dubbed "another sign of these times"

         In subsequent sermons he talks of modern fulfillment of "the mind of Christ" from Isaiah. "The Gentiles, indeed, chiefly receive him and bring forth fruits, ... They are grafted into the Jewish olive-tree." ...  "What are all the Churches of Christ among the Gentiles but the seed of Abraham?  What is the Saviour's prayer for his people, both from [sic] Jew and Gentile? - that they all may be one.  And when Israel is restored, and when the saints are gathered, and when the heavenly Jerusalem is completed, what will be the enraptured triumphs of the Jewish church, looking back on the time of its widowhood, and seeing that, in that very time, the Lord was doing so much for her!"

         "...beginning to appear of the restoration of Israel. The silence of eighteen centuries is broken; the prejudices of eighteen centuries are giving way. Jews and Christians are beginning to sympathise in one hope" (4)

-- May 21, 1839
Montrose, Iowa. With the First Presidency and several others, Joseph Smith rode out on a land excursion to view the territory for many miles in the regions round about Montrose. (5)

-- (Fri) May 24, 1839
Smith approved the plan for sending the Council of the Twelve to England. (1)

-- May 24, 1839
Joseph Smith signed a document as "Presiding Elder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints." (6)

-- (Sat) May 25, 1839
Sidney Rigdon, Joseph Smith, Hyrum Smith wrote their letter on Church and politics to be published in the Quincy Whig. While they probably had the Matilda Spalding Davison statement before them by this time, the contents of their letter does not indicate that they were responding to any element of that statement. (1)

-- May 25, 1839
William Smith is dropped from the Quorum of the Twelve (7)

[Quorum of the Twelve] William Smith restored to Quorum by vote of the Church. (8)

Footnotes:
1 - Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm
2 - Tidd, N. R., "Mormon Chronology," http://mo-hist-tidd.gu.ma
3 - Kenny, Scott (editor), Wilford Woodruff's Journals 1833-1898, Chronology Signature Books, Midvale, Utah
4 - Grunder, Rick, Mormon Parallels: A Bibliographic Source
5 - BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith
6 - Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 7: Selected Chronology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47"
7 - Kenny, Scott, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml
8 - Wikipedia, Chronology of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (LDS Church), http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_the_Quorum_of_the_Twelve_A...)

LDS History Timeline

Mormon History, May 9, 1839-10

-- May 9, 1839-10
[Joseph Smith] Moved from Quincy to log home in Commerce. (1)

-- (Fri) May 10, 1839
Joseph Smith arrives in Commerce IL; Sidney Rigdon and George W. Robinson follow soon after, the farm at Great Neck Prairie is leased to another Mormon. (2)

-- May 10, 1839
Commerce, Illinois. Joseph Smith moved his family into a small log house purchased from Hugh White. (3)

Joseph Smith moves to the village of Commerce, Illinois, which he expands and renames Nauvoo in the new city plat on 30 Aug. By the end of 1845 the city's population would swell to 12,000, second only to Chicago in the state's urban population. Another 3,000 Mormons live in the surrounding area. (4)

[Joseph Smith] Moves with his family into a small log house in Commerce, Illinois. Later renames the city Nauvoo. (5)

[Lucy Mack Smith] Move to Commerce, Ill., later called Nauvoo (Hancock County). (6)

[Lucy Mack Smith] Joseph Jr., Emma, and their four children move into the Homestead, a two-story, four-room log cabin purchased from Hugh White about a mile south of Commerce. Joseph Sr. and Lucy live in a lean-to built on this cabin. (7)

-- (Sat) May 11, 1839
Lyman Wight's pro-Whig letter published in Quincy Whig. -- probably written c. May 7 -- Wight had probably attended Joseph Smith's meeting with the Council of Twelve in Quincy that same day (the 7th). (2)

-- (Sun) May 12, 1839
"I met in council with the twelve & the quorums of the seventies. We had an interesting meeting. Some important things or business was transacted this day... a committy of five was Chosen to labour with Elder Lyman Wight for presenting the subject of politicks through the public press in a manner that was derogatory to the Character of the church & closing up what public feeling there was manifest in our favor." [Woodruff] (2)

-- (Tue) May 14, 1839
Joseph Smith returned temporarily to Quincy and transacted Church business there on Wednesday and Thursday (the 15th and 16th). (2)

-- May 16, 1839
[Lucy Mack Smith] By this date, Don Carlos and Samuel (and presumably Jenkins Salisbury) have moved to the George Miller property near Macombe, McDonough County, Illinois. (7)

-- (Fri) May 17, 1839
Sidney Rigdon & Joseph Smith wrote letter on politics to the Quincy Whig. Although dated "Commerce, May 17, 1839," the letter may have been delivered by hand to the Quincy Whig editors by Smith or Rigdon on the 17th in Quincy. (2)

-- (Sat) May 18, 1839
Lyman Wight's "Missouri-ism" series began in the Quincy Whig. (2)

Footnotes:
1 - Jessee, Dean, Esplin, Ronald and Bushman, Richard Lyman (editors), The Joseph Smith Papers: Journals, Vol. 1: 1832-1839, Chronology for the Years 1832-1839
2 - Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm
3 - BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith
4 - Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 7: Selected Chronology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47"
5 - Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith, Salt Lake City, Utah
6 - Proctor, Scott and Maurine Jensen, editors, History of Joseph Smith by His Mother: Revised and Enhanced
7 - Anderson, Lavina Fielding, Editor, Lucy's Book: A Critical Edition of Lucy Mack Smith's Family Memoir, 2001, Signature Books

LDS History Timeline

About this site: http://mormon-church-history.blogspot.com/2008/12/welcome-to-mormon-church-history.html

Mormon History, May 4, 1839

-- May 4, 1839
Knight, Vinson: Appointed to assume full title of bishop 4 May 1839. (1)

[Quorum of the Twelve] William Smith and Orson Hyde removed from the Quorum by vote of the church. (2)

Smith, William B: Disfellowshipped 4 May 1839. (1)

Snow, Erastus: Appointed one of committee of three 4 May 1839 to gather libelous reports against Church. (1)

-- May 5, 1839
William Smith: Reinstated 25 May 1839 (3)

Wight, Lyman: Received assignment 5 May 1839 to gather affidavits concerning loss of life and damage sustained by Saints in Missouri. (1)

-- (Mon) May 6, 1839
Woodruff writes: "I then met Brother Joseph in Company with the Twelve & Bishops at the house of Bishop Partridge. We again had an interesting time with Brother Joseph. This was the end of the conference." Apparently the tail-end of the Conference business was caught up by the leaders at Partridge's temporary quarters in or near Quincy. (4)

-- May 6, 1839
Marks, William: Appointed to preside over Church in Commerce, Illinois, 6 May 1839. (1)

-- (Tue) May 7, 1839
Joseph Smith meets with the Council of Twelve at Quincy. Wilford Woodruff is present. (4)

-- 8-May 9, 1839
Joseph Smith begins preparations to move to Commerce. He starts out from Quincy for his new residence there on the 9th. (4)

-- May 9, 1839
[Emma] Smiths move to Commerce (Nauvoo), Illinois. (5)

Joseph Smith moves to Nauvoo, Illinois. (6)

-- May 9, 1839-10
Joseph Smith moved from Quincy to Commerce (later renamed Nauvoo), IL. (7)

Footnotes:
1 - Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985
2 - Wikipedia, Chronology of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (LDS Church), http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_the_Quorum_of_the_Twelve_Apostles_(LDS_Church)
3 - Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 6, Biographical Sketches of General Officers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47
4 - Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm
5 - Emma Smith, Woman of Faith, http://emmasmithmormon.com
6 - Wikipedia, Joseph Smith Chronology, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_Joseph_Smith,_Jr.
7 - Ludlow, Daniel H. editor, Encyclopedia of Mormonism, Macmillan Publishing, Encyclopedia of Mormonism, Vol. 4, Appendix 2: A Chronology of Church History

LDS History Timeline

About this site: http://mormon-church-history.blogspot.com/2008/12/welcome-to-mormon-church-history.html

A brief history of 'Mormon Doctrine'

A brief history of 'Mormon Doctrine'
Tuesday, May 25, 2010

  One of the most influential Latter-day Saint books of the past fifty years has been discontinued.  The popular Mormon Doctrine by late apostle Bruce R. McConkie will not go through another printing.  ...

In June, 1958, Bruce R. McConkie surprised church leaders by publishing 'Mormon Doctrine: A Compendium of the Gospel.'  Elder McConkie not been assigned to write the book, nor sought permission from church leaders. ...

He saw it as "the first major attempt to digest, explain, and analyze all of the important doctrines of the kingdom."  Church leaders liked the concept of such a work, but were concerned ...

 ... Read more »

Mormon History, Apr 26, 1839

-- Apr 26, 1839
[Wilford Woodruff] Ordained an Apostle by Brigham Young at the temple site in Far West, Missouri. (1)

-- Apr 27, 1839
Snow, Erastus: Arrived in Quincy 27 April 1839. (2)

-- late Apr 1839
Missouri Governor Boggs issues a bench warrant for the return to Missouri of Sidney Rigdon. Illinois Governor Thomas Carlin refuses to extradite Rigdon. (3)

-- Apr 30, 1839
[Joseph Smith] Church agents made initial purchases of land for Mormon settlement in Commerce, Illinois. (4)

-- During 1839 April
Saints decided to settle at Commerce (later Nauvoo), Illinois, and soon began purchasing land. (5)

While being moved from one trial location to another, Smith is permitted to escape and makes his way to Illinois. There he buys land for a new settlement named Nauvoo on the banks of the Mississippi River, about 200 miles from St. Louis. (6)

[Joseph Smith] ca. 25 Began investigating land for Mormon settlement, Illinois and Iowa. (4)

[Joseph Smith] ca. 6-8 Traveled from Liberty to Gallatin, Daviess County, to attend grand jury hearing on crimes allegedly committed in Daviess County. (4)

[Joseph Smith] Indicted on charge of treason; escapes; reunited with family at Quincy, Illinois. (7)

-- During Apr 1839
George Miller joined the Church near Quincy, IL. He later becomes its Bishop. (3)

-- During April 1839
Joseph Smith and his family arrive in what is now Nauvoo in the spring. His home and large yard served as a place for many incoming saints to live in tents or wagons until more substantial housing could be obtained. (8)

Snow, Erastus: Succeeded in getting change of venue for Prophet and other prisoners in Liberty Jail April 1839. (2)

-- During spring of 1839
Smith, John: Located at Green Plains, Illinois, in spring of 1839. (2)

Footnotes:
1 - Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Wilford Woodruff, Salt Lake City, Utah
2 - Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985
3 - Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm
4 - Jessee, Dean, Esplin, Ronald and Bushman, Richard Lyman (editors), The Joseph Smith Papers: Journals, Vol. 1: 1832-1839, Chronology for the Years 1832-1839
5 - Hemidakaota, "Church Chronology from 1800-2000," http://www.lds.net/forums/scripture-study-forum/12108-church-chronology-1800-2000-part-1-a.html#post214550
6 - Whitney, Helen, Timeline: The Early History of the Mormons, A Frontline and American Experience Co-Production, //www.pbs.org/mormons/timeline/
7 - Joseph Smith Papers, Timeline of Events, http://josephsmithpapers.org/TimelineOfEvents.htm
8 - LDS Church News: Nauvoo -- The City of Joseph, http://www.ldschurchnews.com/articles/58063/Church-history--Nauvoo.html

LDS History Timeline

About this site: http://mormon-church-history.blogspot.com/2008/12/welcome-to-mormon-church-history.html

Mormon History, Apr 25, 1839

-- Apr 25, 1839
Commerce, Ill., was selected as a gathering place for the Church. On May 1, two farms were purchased by Joseph Smith and others, the first land purchased in what later became Nauvoo. (1)

Quincy, Illinois. Joseph Smith went to Iowa with a committee of the Church to select a place for the relocation of the Saints from Missouri. (2)

[Lucy Mack Smith] Joseph chooses Commerce and Montrose as the future gathering places for the Saints. (3)

-- (Fri) Apr 26, 1839
At secret meeting of the Twelve at deserted Far West, one of the corner stones of the temple is rolled into place; 31 apostates are cut off from the Church [Brigham Young]. (4)

-- Apr 26, 1839
Apostles (at great personal risk) gathered at Far West Temple site, to fulfill revelation regarding second apostolic mission to British Isles (D&C 118). (5)

Apostles gathered at Far West temple site in fulfillment of commandment respecting overseas mission (D&C 118). (6)

Wilford Woodruff ordained an apostle. (7)

The Saints commenced evacuating Far West. April 22. Joseph Smith, Jun., arrived in Quincy, Illinois. (8)

At the Far West temple site, in jeopardy if detected by anti-Mormons, apostles Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, John Taylor, Orson Pratt, and John E. Page ordain Wilford Woodruff and George A. Smith as apostles to fulfill one of Joseph Smith's earlier revelations. The "thus saith the Lord" revelation stated that on this day they were to lay the cornerstone for the Far West temple. Shortly after midnight they roll a large stone to the corner of the temple lot to fulfill the revelation..Eighteen other Mormons, including four women, also brave the mobs by attending this ceremony. (9)

31 cut off from the Church [per Brigham Young]. (10)

[Joseph Smith] Wilford Woodruff and George A. Smith are ordained apostles and members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. (11)

Pratt, Orson: In fulfillment of D&C section 118, met with others of twelve apostles in Far West, Missouri, 26 April 1839. (12)

Smith, George Albert: Ordained apostle 26 April 1839. (12)

Footnotes:
1 - Church News: Historical Chronology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, http://www.ldschurchnews.com/articles/58765/Historical-chronology-of-The-Church-of-Jesus-Christ-of-Latter-day-Saints.html
2 - BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith
3 - Anderson, Lavina Fielding, Editor, Lucy's Book: A Critical Edition of Lucy Mack Smith's Family Memoir, 2001, Signature Books
4 - Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm
5 - Ludlow, Daniel H. editor, Encyclopedia of Mormonism, Macmillan Publishing, Encyclopedia of Mormonism, Vol. 4, Appendix 2: A Chronology of Church History
6 - Hemidakaota, "Church Chronology from 1800-2000," http://www.lds.net/forums/scripture-study-forum/12108-church-chronology-1800-2000-part-1-a.html#post214550
7 - Kenny, Scott, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml
8 - Richards, Franklin Dewey and Little, James A., Compendium of the Doctrines of the Gospel, Church Chronology, Ch.66, p.306
9 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com
10 - Tidd, N. R., "Mormon Chronology," http://mo-hist-tidd.gu.ma
11 - Wikipedia, Joseph Smith Chronology, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_Joseph_Smith,_Jr.
12 - Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985

LDS History Timeline

About this site: http://mormon-church-history.blogspot.com/2008/12/welcome-to-mormon-church-history.html

Mormon History, Apr 21, 1839

-- Apr 21, 1839
On a nine-mile prairie past Huntsville, Missouri, "the rods were full of the Saints that were fleeing from Missouri to Illinois."
-- (1)

[Lucy Mack Smith] Lucy receives spiritual assurance that Joseph and Hyrum will reach Quincy the next day and prophesies as much to Edward Partridge. That night she sees them in a vision, sleeping on the prairie without blankets or food. (2)

-- (Mon) Apr 22, 1839
Governor Robert Lucas of Iowa Territory writes to Rigdon saying: "I herewith enclose two letters, one addressed to the President of the United States, and one to Governor Shannon, of Ohio.... I have thought it the most prudent course to refrain from an expression of an individual opinion in the matter... I sincerely hope that you may succeed in obtaining a general investigation into the cause and extent of your sufferings..." Lucas' letter to President Martin Van Buren (dated April 22) begins: "I have the honor to introduce to your acquaintance, the bearer, Doctor Sidney Rigdon, who was for many years a citizen of the State of Ohio, and a firm supporter of the administration of the General Government...." Lucas was one of those writing letters of introduction and recommendation for Rigdon who was least inclined to praise the Mormon leader for any of his personal attributes or accomplishments. About all Lucas provided for Rigdon was an endorsement of Rigdon's support for the
current Democratic administration. (3)

Joseph Smith (and perhaps also Lyman Wight) arrive in Quincy, IL. Smith visits with Emma at the home of Judge John Cleveland 4 miles east of town and lodges there for the next several days. (3)

-- Apr 22, 1839
[Emma] Joseph arrives at Quincy after nearly six months of unjust confinement in Missouri. (4)

Joseph Smith returns to his family (now in Illinois) after escaping from jail in Missouri and reportedly indicates his intention for his son Joseph III to be his successor as church president. (5)

Quincy, Illinois. Joseph Smith arrived at Quincy after escaping from his unjust imprisonment in Missouri. (6)

[Joseph Smith] Reunited with family, who were residing in home of John and Sarah Cleveland, Quincy, Illinois. (7)

[Joseph Smith] Joseph arrives in Illinois and is reunited with his family. (8)

[Joseph Smith] Rejoins his family in Quincy, Illinois. (9)

[Lucy Mack Smith] Joseph and Hyrum are reunited with their families at Quincy, Ill. (10)

[Lucy Mack Smith] Joseph, Hyrum, and the three other escapees reach Quincy, Illinois. (2)

-- (Thr) Apr 25, 1839
Joseph Smith traveled to Commerce, IL. He remained in that area about a week and on April 30th Smith, Rigdon, (and perhaps George W. Robinson and Alanson Ripley) met in Commerce and agreed to purchase two adjoining farms (the Hugh White farm and the Isaac Galland estate) for the Church for $5,000 and $9,000. Rigdon, Joseph, and Hyrum signed notes for $23,000 and Isaac Galland transferred the Commerce property over to the Mormons. (3)

Footnotes:
1 - Kenny, Scott, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml
2 - Anderson, Lavina Fielding, Editor, Lucy's Book: A Critical Edition of Lucy Mack Smith's Family Memoir, 2001, Signature Books
3 - Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm
4 - Emma Smith, Woman of Faith, http://emmasmithmormon.com
5 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com
6 - BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith
7 - Jessee, Dean, Esplin, Ronald and Bushman, Richard Lyman (editors), The Joseph Smith Papers: Journals, Vol. 1: 1832-1839, Chronology for the Years 1832-1839
8 - More Good Foundation, Timeline, http://www.prophetjosephsmith.org/joseph_smith_timeline
9 - Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith, Salt Lake City, Utah
10 - Proctor, Scott and Maurine Jensen, editors, History of Joseph Smith by His Mother: Revised and Enhanced

LDS History Timeline

About this site: http://mormon-church-history.blogspot.com/2008/12/welcome-to-mormon-church-history.html

Mormon History, Mar 25, 1839

-- Mar 25, 1839
[Lucy Mack Smith] Howard Coray and other members of his family are baptized in Pike County, Illinois. (1)

-- During 1839 Mar
[Lucy Mack Smith] Revelations received in Liberty Jail (D&C 121, 122, and 123). (2)

-- Apr 4, 1839
Liberty, Missouri. Joseph Smith wrote a letter to his wife, Emma Smith, from Liberty Jail. (3)

-- Apr 6, 1839
George A Smith: Ordained apostle 26 Apr. 1839, but not sustained as a "prophet, seer, and revelator" until 1872 (4)

Wilford Woodruff: Appointed apostle by written revelati on 8 July, sustained by conference 5 Oct. 1838, ordained apostle 26 Apr. 1839, but not sustained as a "prophet, seer, and revelator" until 1877 (4)

Liberty, Missouri. Joseph Smith was sent with other prisoners by a dangerous route from Liberty to Gallatin, Daviess County. (3)

[Lucy Mack Smith] Joseph and other prisoners taken from Liberty Jail to go to Daviess County. (2)

[Lucy Mack Smith] Joseph, Hyrum, Lyman Wight, Alexander McRae, and Caleb Baldwin are transferred to Gallatin Jail. (1)

-- Apr 8, 1839
Daviess County, Missouri. Joseph Smith arrived in Daviess County on Monday after being transferred from Liberty Jail and was turned over to Sheriff William Morgan and his guard. (3)

-- c. (Mon) Apr 8, 1839
Smith and his fellow prisoners are moved to Daviess Co., to face a Grand Jury. Rigdon receives Smith's letter from Liberty Jail. (5)

-- 9-Apr 11, 1839
[Lucy Mack Smith] At Gallatin, Daviess County, in a grand jury hearing presided over by Thomas Birch, the prisoners are ordered transferred to Boone County. (1)

-- Apr 9, 1839
Orson Hyde letter of introduction for mission to Palestine. (6)

Gallatin, Missouri. Joseph Smiths trial commenced before a drunken grand jury and judge. (3)

Footnotes:
1 - Anderson, Lavina Fielding, Editor, Lucy's Book: A Critical Edition of Lucy Mack Smith's Family Memoir, 2001, Signature Books
2 - Proctor, Scott and Maurine Jensen, editors, History of Joseph Smith by His Mother: Revised and Enhanced
3 - BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith
4 - Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 6, Biographical Sketches of General Officers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47
5 - Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm
6 - Kenny, Scott, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml

LDS History Timeline

About this site: http://mormon-church-history.blogspot.com/2008/12/welcome-to-mormon-church-history.html

Mormon History, Mar 18, 1839

-- Mar 18, 1839
Brigham meets with several of the Twelve. Dr. Isaac Galland's letter is read concerning a "half breed tract of land in Lee county, Iowa." Brigham advises them to purchase land there, "as we probably would move northward." Wilford Woodruff, called to the Twelve by a revelation of July 8, 1838 (D&C 118), is "sustained to be one of the Twelve;" also George A. Smith, who had been appointed by the Prophet to replace Thomas B. Marsh. Twelve discuss fulfilling the requirement of a July 8, 1838 revelation (D&C 118) that they leave on a mission to Europe from Far West on April 26, 1839. "Many of the Authorities considered, in our present persecuted and scattered condition, the Lord would not require the Twelve to fulfill his words to the letter, and ... he would take the will for the deed; but I felt differently and so did those of the Quorum who were with me. ... I told them the Lord God had spoken, and it was our duty to obey and leave the event in his hands and he would protect us.
(1)

-- (Wed) Mar 20, 1839
Joseph Smith letter from Liberty Jail to "The Church at Quincy Illinois," [LDS History of the Church, III:301]. (2)

-- Mar 20, 1839
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. (3)

Liberty, Missouri. From jail Joseph Smith dictated a letter to the Saints who had found refuge in Quincy, Illinois, and elsewhere, after they had been driven from Missouri. The letter included what is now known as Doctrine & Covenants 121, 122, and 123. (4)

[Joseph Smith] Commenced writing epistle from jail to exiled Latter-day Saints, Liberty. (5)

[Joseph Smith] (age 33)From Liberty Jail, writes an epistle to the Saints, portions of which are later canonized in Doctrine and Covenants 121, 122, and 123. (6)

[Joseph Smith Prophecy] Enemies punished - While in prison, Smith prophesied that his enemies would be taken "in their own craftiness" and that "not many years hence ... [his enemies] and their posterity shall be swept from under heaven, saith God, that not one of them is left to stand by the wall". D&C 121:11 -- This prophecy was not fulfilled (7)

-- Mar 20, 1839-25
Joseph Smith still imprisoned in Liberty Jail, wrote epistle to Saints (D&C 121, 122, 123). (8)

D&C 121-123: Prayer and prophecies (1)

-- Mar 21, 1839
Liberty, Missouri. Joseph Smith wrote a letter to his wife, Emma Smith, living in Quincy, Illinois. (4)

-- Mar 22, 1839
Joseph Smith writes in a letter: "the first and fundamental principle of our holy religion is, that we believe that we have a right to embrace all, and every item of truth, without limitation or without being circumscribed or prohibited by the creeds or superstitious notions of men, or by the dominations of one another, when that truth is clearly demonstrated to our minds, and we have the highest degree of evidence of the same." (9)

Liberty, Missouri. Joseph Smith sent a letter to landowner Isaac Galland informing him of the Churchs desire to purchase land in the Commerce, Illinois, vicinity, thus saving the Church from fragmentation. (4)

-- (Mon) Mar 25, 1839
"The Prophet's Epistle to the Church" written in Liberty Jail. "Your humble servant, Joseph Smith, Jun.... , in company with his fellow prisoners and beloved brethren, Caleb Baldwin, Lyman Wight, Hyrum Smith, and Alexander McRae... We would tell, that we should have been liberated at the time Elder Rigdon was, on the writ of habeas corpus... We feel to inquire after Elder Rigdon; if he has not forgotten us, it has not been signified to us by his writing. Brother George W. Robinson also... [LDS History of the Church, III:289-298]. (2)

Footnotes:
1 - Kenny, Scott, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml
2 - Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm
3 - Church News: Historical Chronology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, http://www.ldschurchnews.com/articles/58765/Historical-chronology-of-The-Church-of-Jesus-Christ-of-Latter-day-Saints.html
4 - BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith
5 - Jessee, Dean, Esplin, Ronald and Bushman, Richard Lyman (editors), The Joseph Smith Papers: Journals, Vol. 1: 1832-1839, Chronology for the Years 1832-1839
6 - Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith, Salt Lake City, Utah
7 - Wikipedia, Prophesies of Joseph Smith, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prophecies_of_Joseph_Smith,_Jr.
8 - Ludlow, Daniel H. editor, Encyclopedia of Mormonism, Macmillan Publishing, Encyclopedia of Mormonism, Vol. 4, Appendix 2: A Chronology of Church History
9 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com

LDS History Timeline

About this site: http://mormon-church-history.blogspot.com/2008/12/welcome-to-mormon-church-history.html

Mormon History, February 1839

-- During February 1839
Young, Brigham: Located temporarily in Quincy, Illinois, February 1839. (1)

-- Mar 7, 1839
Lyman Wight: Excommunicated again 17 Mar. 1839 (2)

Thomas B Marsh: Excommunicated again 17 Mar. 1839 (2)

-- Mar 9, 1839
Higbee, Elias: On 9 March 1839, appointed member of committee to view Isaac Galland properties in Lee County, Iowa, and Commerce, Illinois. Subsequently settled in Nauvoo. (1)

-- Mar 15, 1839
Liberty, Missouri. Joseph Smith wrote a letter to Presendia Huntington Buell from Liberty Jail. (3)

Liberty, Missouri. While in prison, Joseph Smith predicted his own release in a letter and sent a petition to judges of the Missouri supreme court. (3)

-- (Sat) Mar 16, 1839
The Democrats' "Quincy Argus" publishes pro-Mormon editorial. (4)

-- Mar 17, 1839
Corrill, John: Excommunicated 17 March 1839. Published work against Church: A Brief History of the Church of Christ of Latter Day Saints (Commonly Called Mormons) (St. (1)

Conference in Quincy. Teams and $50 are raised to move families from Far West to Quincy. Thomas B. Marsh, Sampson Avard, John Corrill, W. W. Phelps, Burr Riggs, and others are excommunicated. (5)

[Joseph Smith] Thomas B. Marsh is excommunicated from the church in absentia in Quincy, Illinois. (6)

[Lucy Mack Smith] Brigham Young presides at a conference at Quincy, Illinois. George Hinkle, Sampson Avard, John Corrill, Reed Peck, W. W. Phelps, Frederick G. Williams, Thomas B. Marsh, Burr Riggs, and others are excommunicated. (7)

Marsh, Thomas Baldwin: Excommunicated for apostasy 17 March 1839. Remained in Missouri eighteen years; taught biblical geography. After death of wife, traveled to Florence, Nebraska, and sought out Church leaders. (1)

-- (Mon) Mar 18, 1839
George A. Smith appointed to the 12, replacing Thomas B. Marsh, who had fallen; Wilford Woodruff also added to the 12. Both are ordained on April 26th. [Brigham Young]. (4)

Footnotes:
1 - Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985
2 - Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 6, Biographical Sketches of General Officers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47
3 - BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith
4 - Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm
5 - Kenny, Scott, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml
6 - Wikipedia, Joseph Smith Chronology, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronology_of_Joseph_Smith,_Jr.
7 - Anderson, Lavina Fielding, Editor, Lucy's Book: A Critical Edition of Lucy Mack Smith's Family Memoir, 2001, Signature Books

LDS History Timeline

About this site: http://mormon-church-history.blogspot.com/2008/12/welcome-to-mormon-church-history.html

Mormon History, (Sat) Feb 23, 1839

-- (Sat) Feb 23, 1839
During a meeting of the Quincy Democratic Association, a committee was appointed to seek relief for the Mormon refugees. Sidney Rigdon writes to the U.S Attorney General, Felix Grundy, saying: "...I am one of that number who has been driven by violence from my home after being held in prison for near four months and all my property destroyed. My object in writing to you is to assertain if recourse can be had to the federal and whether or no we can enter suit in the court not only against individuals inhabitants of Missouri but against the state also for the unconstitutional acts of the executive of said state..." (1)

-- Feb 23, 1839
Many refugee Saints arrived at Quincy, IL, and local citizens adopted relief measures. (2)

-- (Wed) Feb 27, 1839
Sidney Rigdon preaches a funeral sermon in or near Quincy. he mentions that there will be a meeting at the Adams Court House that evening. After Rigdon speaks the meeting is postponed for 24 hours. (1)

-- (Thr) Feb 28, 1839
Democratic Association of Quincy joined by other Quincy Gentiles in a second meeting with the Mormons. (1)

-- ca. Feb 28, 1839
[Lucy Mack Smith] Samuel moves his family from the crowded dwelling where Joseph Sr., Lucy, and his sisters are living. About this time, Lucy's and Joseph's daughter Lucy becomes very sick. Mother Lucy, while nursing daughter Lucy, becomes painfully ill with cholera but is cured through the herbal remedies of a botanic physician. (3)

-- During 1839 Feb
Joseph Sr., Lucy Mack Smith, and extended family begin trek for Ill. (4)

-- During 1839 February
Exiled Saints arriving in Quincy, Illinois, assisted by local citizens. (5)

[Joseph Smith] Large-scale evacuation of Latter-day Saints from Missouri migrating to Illinois. (6)

-- During Feb-Mar 1839
Sidney Rigdon lives in Quincy for about four weeks, then moves temporarily to Big Neck Prairie, Fulton Co., IL to live with George W. Robinson. (1)

-- During February 1839
Higbee, Elias: Located in Quincy, Illinois, area before February 1839. (7)

[Missouri War] Mormons pool resources and organize to leave Missouri. (8)

Murdock, John: Expelled from Missouri February 1839. (7)

Snow, Lorenzo: Returned to Ohio February 1839. (7)

Footnotes:
1 - Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm
2 - Ludlow, Daniel H. editor, Encyclopedia of Mormonism, Macmillan Publishing, Encyclopedia of Mormonism, Vol. 4, Appendix 2: A Chronology of Church History
3 - Anderson, Lavina Fielding, Editor, Lucy's Book: A Critical Edition of Lucy Mack Smith's Family Memoir, 2001, Signature Books
4 - Proctor, Scott and Maurine Jensen, editors, History of Joseph Smith by His Mother: Revised and Enhanced
5 - Hemidakaota, "Church Chronology from 1800-2000," http://www.lds.net/forums/scripture-study-forum/12108-church-chronology-1800-2000-part-1-a.html#post214550
6 - Jessee, Dean, Esplin, Ronald and Bushman, Richard Lyman (editors), The Joseph Smith Papers: Journals, Vol. 1: 1832-1839, Chronology for the Years 1832-1839
7 - Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985
8 - LeSueur, Stephen C., The 1838 Mormon War in Missouri, Appendix: Chronology of Events in Missouri, 1838-1839

LDS History Timeline

About this site: http://mormon-church-history.blogspot.com/2008/12/welcome-to-mormon-church-history.html

Mormon History, Feb 7, 1839

-- Feb 7, 1839
[Lucy Mack Smith] With the aid of Stephen Markham, Emma starts from Far West with her four children. She reaches Quincy, Illinois, on 15 February. (1)

-- Feb 8, 1839
Liberty, Missouri. After Joseph Smiths failed escape attempt, local citizens gathered outside of Liberty Jail and threatened to kill him and his fellow inmates. Joseph prophesied that they would be kept safe. (2)

-- Feb 14, 1839
Emma and children arrive at Quincy, Illinois. (3)

Brigham Young moves his family from Missouri to Atlas, Pike county, Illinois. A few weeks later they move to Quincy. (4)

Brigham Young fled from Far West to Illinois. (5)

-- (Fri) Feb 15, 1839
Emma Smith crosses the frozen Mississippi River to Quincy, IL on foot, walking behind her wagon full of family possessions. She brings with her Joseph III, Alexander, Frederick, and Julia, her children. Emma finds shelter at the farm of Judge John Cleveland, 4 miles east of Quincy. John was apparently at this time a Mormon sympathizer. His wife seems to have already been baptized a Mormon. She later became Emma's counselor in the Female Relief Society in Nauvoo. The Clevelands probably exchanged their Quincy farm for a house and lot in Nauvoo c, 1841-42. (6)

-- Feb 15, 1839
[Lucy Mack Smith] Lucy and her familyapparently the same family group that had come to Missourileave Far West for Illinois. (1)

-- c. (Fri) Feb 15, 1839
Sidney Rigdon arrives on the banks of the Mississippi and crosses in a canoe. His family probably crossed with a day or two by ferry. (6)

-- mid-Feb 1839
Sidney Rigdon hides in the family wagon as it moves toward Illinois. The trip from Tenny's Grove probably took about 10 days. (6)

-- (Sat) Feb 16, 1839
Sidney Rigdon arrives in Quincy, IL and resides with Judge John Cleveland (at the same residence as where Emma Smith and her family were then staying). (6)

-- Feb 20, 1839
Bennett, John Cook: Appointed brigadier general of Second Division of Illinois Militia by Governor Thomas Carlin 20 February 1839. (7)

-- Feb 21, 1839
[Lucy Mack Smith] Lucy and her family reach the swampy banks of the Mississippi in continual storms of snow, sleet, and rain. Samuel and Seymour Brunson take them across the river to Quincy on 22 February. Back in Far West, a committee is appointed to sell Joseph's and Lucy's tavern to a buyer from Clay County. (1)

-- (Fri) Feb 22, 1839
Quincy Whig article announces the arrival of Sidney Rigdon. (6)

Footnotes:
1 - Anderson, Lavina Fielding, Editor, Lucy's Book: A Critical Edition of Lucy Mack Smith's Family Memoir, 2001, Signature Books
2 - BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith
3 - Emma Smith, Woman of Faith, http://emmasmithmormon.com
4 - Kenny, Scott, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml
5 - Richards, Franklin Dewey and Little, James A., Compendium of the Doctrines of the Gospel, Church Chronology, Ch.66, p.306
6 - Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm
7 - Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985

LDS History Timeline

About this site: http://mormon-church-history.blogspot.com/2008/12/welcome-to-mormon-church-history.html

Mormon History, Jan 21, 1839

-- Jan 21, 1839
[Lucy Mack Smith] Emma takes Hyrum's wife Mary and her baby, Joseph F., to visit Joseph Jr. and Hyrum at Liberty Jail. It is Emma's third visit. Mercy Fielding Thompson (Mary Fielding Smith's sister), Mercy's own eight-month-old baby, and Joseph III also were in the group. (1)

-- Jan 26, 1839
[Joseph Smith] Under direction of Assistant Counselor John Smith, a committee organizes the exodus from Missouri to Illinois. (2)

-- Jan 27, 1839
Patriarch Joseph Smith Sr. gives a patriarchal blessing to Charles W. Hubbard: "if thou wilt be faithful, thou shalt live to see the Savior come while in the flesh, for thou art of the House of Abraham and shall be blessed with them upon the Land of Promise and shall live to see the winding up scenes of this generation". (3)

-- Jan 31, 1839
Liberty, Missouri. Joseph Smiths history records: I sent the poor brethren [in Far West, Missouri] a hundred dollar bill from jail, to assist them in their distressed situation. (4)

-- During 1839
[Oliver Cowdery] Oliver served as secretary of the Western Reserve Teachers' Seminary in Kirtland, OH. (5)

-- During 1839 January
Quorum of the Twelve forms a committee to move the Saints from Missouri Frederick G. Williams is excommunicated John Corrill is excommunicated. (6)

-- During January 1839
Partridge, Edward: Joined family in Quincy, Illinois, January 1839. (7)

-- (Tue) Feb 5, 1839
Sidney Rigdon escapes from Liberty Jail. (8)

-- Feb 5, 1839
[Lucy Mack Smith] Sidney Rigdon, who was ordered discharged from jail, leaves by night. Phebe, after accompanying him on the first leg of the journey, returns to Far West for the children, meeting Sidney at Tinney's Grove a few days later. (1)

-- 6 & Feb 7, 1839
Sidney Rigdon rides to Tenny's Grove where he meets his family and George W. Robinson's family.. (8)

-- Feb 7, 1839
Emma and family leave Far West, Missouri. (9)

Liberty, Missouri. After much rude treatment in jail and lack of due respect from the law, Joseph Smith considered escaping from Liberty Jail and received a confirmation that he and the brethren could go that night if they all assented. Lyman Wight objected, however, so they delayed the attempt. (4)

[Lucy Mack Smith] Emma and the children leave Far West for Ill. (10)

Footnotes:
1 - Anderson, Lavina Fielding, Editor, Lucy's Book: A Critical Edition of Lucy Mack Smith's Family Memoir, 2001, Signature Books
2 - Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 7: Selected Chronology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47"
3 - This Day in Mormon History, http://www.advent-adam.com/jakestand.html
4 - BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith
5 - Broadhurst, Dale R., Oliver Cowdery Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/Cdychrn1.htm
6 - Kenny, Scott, "Mormon History 1830-1844," http://saintswithouthalos.com/dirs/d_c.phtml
7 - Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985
8 - Broadhurst, Dale R., Mormon Chronology, http://olivercowdery.com/history/morchrn2.htm
9 - Emma Smith, Woman of Faith, http://emmasmithmormon.com
10 - Proctor, Scott and Maurine Jensen, editors, History of Joseph Smith by His Mother: Revised and Enhanced

LDS History Timeline

About this site: http://mormon-church-history.blogspot.com/2008/12/welcome-to-mormon-church-history.html

Mormon History, 1838

-- During 1838
Snow, Lorenzo: Moved to Missouri 1838. (1)

Thayer, Ezra: Moved to Missouri 1838. Settled in Nauvoo after being expelled from Missouri. (1)

Whitney, Newel Kimball: Located family temporarily in Carrollton, Greene County, Illinois, 1838. (1)

[Willard Richards] In England, two great events in Richards's life took place. The first was his marriage in 1838 to Jennetta Richards. Two sons were born to them in England; the first died several months after birth, however. The second great event was Willard's call to be a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles. (2)

[William Hickman] Shortly after his first marriage, he met Mormons from Ohio as they passed by his farm on their way to Jackson County, Missouri. He talked to them, fed many, and ended up a convert to Mormonism in 1838. After the expulsion of the Mormons from Missouri he moved to Illinois. (3)

Young, Brigham: Organized Mormon evacuation from Missouri 1838-39. (1)

-- During 1838 to 1840
[Albert Sydney Johnston] He served as Secretary of War of the Republic of Texas from 1838 to 1840. During the Mexican War Johnston led a Texas volunteer regiment and fought at Monterrey. (4)

-- During 1838, 1839
George A Smith: Missions (1838, 1839) (5)

-- During 1838-1839
* James Mulholland -- primary scribal author for this period. Writings used in assembling The History of the Church (often cited as HC) (originally entitled History of Joseph Smith; first published under the title History of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; nicknamed Documentary History of the Church or DHC) (6)

-- During 1838-39
Brigham Young: Stake presidency (1838-39) (5)

Joseph Smith Jr.: Imprisoned 5.5 months 1838-39 awaiting trial, charged with larceny, arson, inciting riot, and treason (charge of receiving stolen goods dismissed) (5)

Lyman Wight: Imprisoned 5.5 months 1838-39 awaiting trial for obstruction of justice, larceny, arson, treason, and inciting riot (5)

Parley P Pratt: Under guard 9 months in Missouri 1838-39 while awaiting trial for murder (5)

Footnotes:
1 - Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985
2 - Utah Historical Encyclopedia: Willard Richards, http://www.media.utah.edu/UHE/r/RICHARDS%2CWILLARD.html
3 - Utah Historical Encyclopedia: William Hickman, http://www.media.utah.edu/UHE/h/HICKMAN%2CWILLIAM.html
4 - Utah Historical Encyclopedia: Albert Sydney Johnston, http://www.media.utah.edu/UHE/j/JOHNSTON%2CALBERT.html
5 - Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 6, Biographical Sketches of General Officers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47
6 - Wikipedia, History of the Church, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_the_Church

LDS History Timeline

About this site: http://mormon-church-history.blogspot.com/2008/12/welcome-to-mormon-church-history.html

Mormon History, 1838

-- During 1838
[John Taylor] Ordained an Apostle at Far West, Missouri, on 19 December, by Brigham Young and Heber C. Kimball, under the direction of Joseph Smith, who was in Liberty Jail. (1)

Kimball, Heber Chase: Moved to Missouri 1838. (2)

Marks, William: President of Kirtland Stake 1838. (2)

[Nauvoo] About 350 people had migrated to the peninsula. The region boasted a justice of the peace and a small cemetery. Houses of wood and stone had been erected as well as stores and a tavern (inn). The inhabitants of the peninsula roughly equaled in number the size of the neighboring hamlets Carthage and Warsaw. It was the largest center of population in Hancock County. (3)

[Orin Porter Rockwell] As a settler in Jackson County, Missouri, in the mid-1830s, he was caught up in the so-called Mormon War of 1838, in which Missourians acting under an "extermination order" issued by Governor Lilburn W. Boggs drove the Mormons from the state. It was during this turbulent period that Rockwell became identified with the "Danites," a band of Mormon stalwarts who organized for the defense of fellow church members against their antagonists. (4)

Orson Hyde is numbered among the great leaders of early Utah history. Raised as an orphan in poverty and self educated, he later filled many positions in Utah with distinction and success. He was a convincing and eloquent orator with a compelling desire to excel. As a Mormon apostle he became one of the most scholarly leaders in pioneer times. His boldness and energy frequently made him the subject of criticism from his superiors. In 1838 he was excommunicated from the church, but after making sincere reconciliation he was reinstated the next year. (5)

[Polygamy] Lucinda Pendleton Morgan Harris Est. age 37, already married. Historians Richard Lloyd Anderson and Scott H. Faulring dismiss this claim as being based on "no solid evidence". Compton notes the following evidence: she is the third woman on Andrew Jenson's 1887 list of Joseph Smith's plural wives; Compton writes that "Sarah Pratt reported that while in Nauvoo Lucinda had admitted a long-standing relationship with Smith"; and that there is an "early Nauvoo temple proxy sealing to Smith...." This marriage was a polyandrous situation, as Lucinda lived with her current husband George Washington Harris until about 1853. Compton feels the marriage occurred around 1838 , when Smith was living with Lucinda and her husband. (6)

Pratt, Orson: Pursuant to request to return to Missouri, with family left New York City and arrived in St. Louis mid-November 1838; spent winter there. (2)

Richards, Willard: Counselor to Joseph Fielding in presiding over Church in England 1838-40. Three children: Heber John, Heber John, and Rhoda Ann. (2)

Smith, Don Carlos: Mission to Tennessee and Kentucky 1838 to collect money to buy out land claims of non-Mormons in Daviess County, Missouri. (2)

Snow, Erastus: Mission to Pennsylvania and Maryland 1838. (2)

Snow, Erastus: Moved to Far West, Missouri, 1838. (2)

Snow, Lorenzo: Mission to Kentucky and Illinois 1838. (2)

Footnotes:
1 - Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Teachings of Presidents of the Church: John Taylor, Salt Lake City, Utah
2 - Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985
3 - LDS Church News: Nauvoo -- The City of Joseph, http://www.ldschurchnews.com/articles/58063/Church-history--Nauvoo.html
4 - Utah Historical Encyclopedia: Orin Porter Rockwell, http://www.media.utah.edu/UHE/r/ROCKWELL%2CORIN.html
5 - Utah Historical Encyclopedia: Orson Hyde, http://www.media.utah.edu/UHE/h/HYDE%2CORSON.html
6 - Wikipedia, List of the Wives of Joseph Smith, Jr., http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_the_wives_of_Joseph_Smith,_Jr.

LDS History Timeline

About this site: http://mormon-church-history.blogspot.com/2008/12/welcome-to-mormon-church-history.html

Mormon History, 1838

-- During 1838
Sidney Rigdon: Gave Independence Day sermon threatening bloody war if non-Mormons attacked Mormons, Jul. 4, 1838 (1)

Sidney Rigdon: Sued with business associates Zebedee Coltrin and Sampson Avard, dismissed by Ohio court 1838 (1)

Sylvester Smith: His brother among those murdered by non-Mormon militia at Haun's Mill, Missouri 1838 (1)

Thomas B Marsh: Indicted 1838 for arson in Missouri, charges dismissed (1)

Thomas B Marsh: Stake president 1838 (1)

Vinson Knight: Convicted 1838 for defaulting on debt (1)

Vinson Knight: Mormon militia and Danite 1838 (1)

Vinson Knight: Stake bishop 1838 (1)

Willard Richards: High priest 1838 (1)

William E Mclellin: Appointed by Missouri court 1838 to confiscate stolen property from homes of David W Patten , Sidney Rigdon , and other Mormons (1)

William Smith: Declined to visit his brothers in Liberty Jail, 1838-39 (1)

Zebedee Coltrin: Indicted for arson 1837, acquitted 1838 (1)

Zebedee Coltrin: Pleaded guilty 1838 for defaulting on debt (1)

Footnotes:
1 - Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 6, Biographical Sketches of General Officers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47

LDS History Timeline

About this site: http://mormon-church-history.blogspot.com/2008/12/welcome-to-mormon-church-history.html

Mormon History, 1838

-- During 1838
Lyman R Sherman: Pleaded guilty 1838 for two defaulted debts and convicted for another (1)

Lyman Wight: Arrested 1838, escaped during trial, fugitive from Ohio justice the remainder of life (1)

Lyman Wight: Colonel in Mormon militia and Danites in Missouri 1838 (1)

Lyman Wight: Indicted 1838 for entering Daviess County, Missouri with firearms, sheriff ruled out of jurisdiction in Caldwell County (1)

Lyman Wight: Narrowly avoided execution by Missouri militia for treason 1838 (1)

Oliver Cowdery: Arrested 1838 for theft, charges dropped (1)

Orson Pratt: Branch president 1838 (1)

Parley P Pratt: Narrowly avoided execution by Missouri militia 1838 for treason (1)

Parley P Pratt: Officer in Mormon militia and Danites 1838 (1)

Roger Orton: Convicted for defaulted debt 1838 (1)

Sidney Rigdon: Acted as Joseph Smith Jr. 's spokesman again 1838 (1)

Sidney Rigdon: Applicant 1838 for postmaster of (1)

Sidney Rigdon: Convicted 1838 for defaulted debt (1)

Footnotes:
1 - Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 6, Biographical Sketches of General Officers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47

LDS History Timeline

About this site: http://mormon-church-history.blogspot.com/2008/12/welcome-to-mormon-church-history.html

Mormon History, 1838

-- During 1838
Joseph Smith Jr.: Possibly married polygamously 1838 in violation of Missouri law (1)

Joseph Smith Jr.: Saw vision 1838 of angel ministering to William Marks (1)

Joseph Smith Sr.: Arrested 1838 for performing illegal marriages in Ohio, escaped arresting officer, moved from state and remained fugitive remainder of life (1)

Joseph Young: A leader of Kirtland Camp of 529 who traveled 1838 to Far West, Missouri (1)

Joseph Young: Evaded arrest for circulating illegal currency of Kirtland Safety Society 1838, fugitive from Ohio justice for rest of life (1)

Joseph Young: Pleaded guilty for defaulted debt 1838 (1)

Joseph Young: Survived Haun's Mill Massacre 1838 (1)

Josiah Butterfield: A leader of the Kirtland Camp of 529 Mormons who traveled from Kirtland to Far West, Missouri 1838 (1)

Josiah Butterfield: Arrested and imprisoned overnight for circulating the illegal currency of the Kirtland Safety Society 1838, but charges were dismissed (1)

Leonard Rich: Convicted for defaulting on debt 1838 (1)

Levi W Hancock: Mormon militia and Danite, 1838 (1)

Lyman E Johnson: Fined for assault and battery on Brigham Young 's brother 1838 (1)

Lyman R Sherman: Indicted for arson 1837, but acquitted 1838 (1)

Footnotes:
1 - Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 6, Biographical Sketches of General Officers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47

LDS History Timeline

About this site: http://mormon-church-history.blogspot.com/2008/12/welcome-to-mormon-church-history.html

Mormon History, 1838

-- During 1838
George A Smith: Danire in Missouri 1838 (1)

George A Smith: High priest 1838 (1)

George A Smith: Indicted 1838 for intimidating a judge, not tried (1)

George A Smith: Stake high council 1838 (1)

Henry Harriman: A leader of Kirtland Camp which traveled to Far West, Missouri 1838 (1)

James Foster: A leader of the Kirtland Camp of 529 Mormons who traveled from Kirtland to Far West, Missouri 1838 (1)

John E Page: High priest and stake high council 1838 (1)

John F Boynton: Pleaded guilty for two defaulted debts and convicted of another 1838 (1)

John Smith: Arrested 1838 by non-Mormon militia, released unharmed (another Mormon beaten to death) (1)

John Smith: Stake president, Adam-ondi-Ahman, Missouri 1838, noted Danite meetings in journal (1)

Joseph Smith Jr.: Indicted 1838 for entering Daviess county, Missouri with firearms, but sheriff ruled out of jurisdiction (1)

Joseph Smith Jr.: Initiated as Danite 1838 and had oversight of their activities as the Mormon "Secretary of War" and commander-in-chief (1)

Joseph Smith Jr.: Narrowly avoided execution by Missouri militia for treason 1838 (1)

Footnotes:
1 - Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 6, Biographical Sketches of General Officers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47

LDS History Timeline

About this site: http://mormon-church-history.blogspot.com/2008/12/welcome-to-mormon-church-history.html

Mormon History, 1838

-- During 1838
[Danites] The name "Danite was applied to four or five of Brigham Young-appointed early lawmen by the Eastern Press because of an earlier semi-religious organization begun in Missouri in 1838 by Dr. Sampson Avard. This early group disbanded almost before it started when the motives of Dr. Avard became suspect and he was excommunicated from the Mormon Church. However, the ideas he promulgated persisted with some for several decades in the Utah Territory. Based on the biblical scripture, Genesis 49:17, non-Mormon "Gentiles" who persecuted the Mormons were to be punished by losing their possessions. (1)

Church membership near 18,000. (2)

Albert P Rockwood: Mormon militia and Danites in Missouri 1838 (3)

Amasa M Lyman: Narrowly avoided execution by Missouri militia 1838 for treason, and imprisoned three weeks (3)

Amasa M Lyman: Officer in Mormon militia and Danire 1838 (3)

Amasa M Lyman: Stake high council 1838 (3)

Benjamin L Clapp: Danire 1838 (3)

Benjamin L Clapp: Fled Missouri 1838 to avoid prosecution for murder (3)

Daniel S Miles: A leader of the Kirtland Camp of 529 Mormons who traveled from Kirtland to Far West, Missouri 1838 (3)

Daniel S Miles: Danite captain 1838 (3)

David W Patten: Captain of Mormon militia and of Danite cavalry 1838 (3)

David W Patten: Died in skirmish with Missouri militiamen at so-called Battle of Crooked River, 1838 (3)

David W Patten: Stake presidency 1838 (3)

Footnotes:
1 - Utah Historical Encyclopedia: Danites, http://www.media.utah.edu/UHE/d/DANITES.html
2 - Sherry Baker: Mormon Media History Timeline: 1827-2007, http://byustudies.byu.edu/showTitle.aspx?title=7984
3 - Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 6, Biographical Sketches of General Officers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47

LDS History Timeline

About this site: http://mormon-church-history.blogspot.com/2008/12/welcome-to-mormon-church-history.html