Mormon History, Jul 9, 1846

Letter Regarding Migration-- While this letter was written by the Council of the Twelve, during the temporary absence of Brigham Young, and signed by Parley P. Pratt for the Council, there is no indication in L.D.S. Church history that the letter did not have the approval of President Young as well as the Council. It is reproduced in photographic facsimile of the original by B. H. Roberts in CHC 3: between pages 94 and 95. B. H Roberts note should be sufficient commentary on the document:
"The importance of producing in facsimile Parley P. Pratt's letter consists in this: It is held by opponents of the Church of the Latter-day Saints that the purpose of the "Mormons" in moving west to the Great Basin of the Rocky Mountains was to found an independent government.
"Pratt's letter is one of the proofs that they intended only to "LAY THE FOUNDATION FOR A TERRITORIAL OR STATE GOVERNMENT UNDER THE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES . . . and to assist in the redemption of our country, and the emancipation of the world." The reference in the letter to not delaying until the return of President Young before giving in names for enrollment refers to the president's return from Mount Pisgah where he had gone to raise volunteers for the battalion."
July 9th, 1846. CAMP OF ISRAEL ÃÂ. BLUFFS To all the Saints to whom these presence shall come, Greeting: Dear Brethren: Five hundred men must be raised forthwith for the expedition to California. Don't delay till the return of President Young; but come forward hastily and readily and give in your names to Major Hunt, the bearer of this letter, for be assured it is the mind and will of God that we should improve the opportunity which a kind providence has now offered for us to secure a permanent home in that country, and thus lay a foundation for a territorial or State Government, under the Constitution of the United States, where we shall be the first settlers and a vast majority of the people, and thus be independent of mobs, and be able to maintain our rights and freedom, and to assist in the Redemption of our country, and the emancipation of the world from Bondage.
The season is passing rapidly away; and it will take some days to organize five hundred men; even if they should all come forward immediately. And be assured that the Council and Camp will not move from this place until this thing is done.
Or should it fail to be done, we need not think of Gathering, for we know of no place to gather, with an assurance of peace unless we hearken to counsel, and improve the means which our Heavenly father has put within our reach.
Done in behalf of the Council We remain, dear Brethren, your Brethren in the Bonds of the New and Everlasting Covenant. P. P. PRATT. {1846-July 9-CHC 3: between pp. 94 and 95}

[source: Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]

Mormon History, Jul 9, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 9th We continued our journey this morning. We came along side of the general encampment at Council Bluffs about noon. I saw the encampment of the Twelve or some of them. I had an interview with Elders P P Pratt & John Taylor And many other friends. I pitched my tent & encampemnt on a Bluff near Elders Taylor & P P Pratt. We had hard rain at night.
We held a council in the evening about raising 500 volunteers for the President of the U.S. to go to upper Calafornia via Santafe. We wrote A letter & signed it to be Carried through the camp. Distance from Pisgah to the Bluffs 160 miles.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Wednesday, Jul 8, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Mt. Pisgah. Pleasant and warm. Presidents Young, Kimball, and Richards visited the Saints in a.m. [morning]. Most of the volunteers started for Council Bluffs after receiving instructions from General Rich, and from 1 to 2 p.m. the brethren dined at L. N. Scovill's tent. Then rode out [in the afternoon] p.m. and met Captain Davis and company from Montrose and visited Lorenzo Snow and Evan GreenÂ's family. Elder Kimball passed over the creek to Father CutlerÂ's, and Young and Kimball returned to Mt. Pisgah. Dr. Richards took tea at Silas St. JohnÂ's and spent the evening with Brothers Young, and Little, and General Rich, after administering to Sister Moss, who had been bit by a rattlesnake. Joseph Robinson started for Nauvoo with the mail about noon.

[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Jul 8, 1846

[Hosea Stout Diary] Wednesday July the 8th 1846. I was engaged most of the day to day in over-hauling my goods to select such articles as I could do without and take them down to the settlements and try in that way to lay in some provisions[.] Which was but a "forlorn hope" for my health would not admit of my going if the opportunity to sell was ever so good.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Jul 8, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 8th Early this morning some 50 Indians said to belong to the Sous passed our camp for the east. They said they were going to meet the Mormon Chief. Supposed they ment President Young who had gone to Mt Pisgah. They were A Noble looking Indian.
We remained stationary to day to let our cattle rest. I was Called to administer to Sister Grant who was in travel. She had A Daughter born in 5 minutes After I left. Thus the Saints bear Children by the wayside like the Children of Israel in the wilderness. We lay still through the day in consequence of the hot weather.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Tuesday, Jul 7, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Mt. Pisgah. Clear and pleasant. South wind. About 10, Elder Kimball arrived and Presidents Young and Kimball met the brethren at the stand and Richards went to writing a letter to the Presidency at Mt. Pisgah at the house of General Rich, by instruction of President Young. Several speeches were made at the meeting, and 50 volunteered to enlist into the army. [At 3:30] 3½ p.m., George Langley started with the letter to Garden Grove. Brother Richards spent the p.m. and evening in writing for the council to the trustees at Nauvoo. President Young signed it at 11 (also on file). He also wrote to Edmund Ellsworth. The brethren counted and reported 205 wagons at Mt. Pisgah, which with three on the road and at headquarters made 1805 wagons.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal]
[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Jul 7, 1846 (Tuesday)

Pres. Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball and Jesse C. Little addressed a meeting of the brethren at Mount Pisgah on the subject of raising a battalion to march to California. Sixty-six volunteered. Geo. W. Langley was sent to Garden Grove with a letter to the presiding brethren there upon the same subject. A similar communication was sent to Nauvoo.

[source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

Mormon History, Jul 7, 1846

Wilford Woodruff: Reached Council Bluffs 7 July 1846.

Mormon History, Jul 7, 1846

[Hosea Stout Diary] Tuesday July the 7th 1846. This morning I went to a mill on Musquto Creek about four miles from here. My object was to try and hire out there as a sawyer that I might make something to live on[.] I intended to make a permanant arraingement for work as the way was entirely hedged up for me to travail any further and this employment suited me.It was an uncommon rough road there.I did not get any work to do[.] Neither was there much business going on
When I returned I was very sick and remained so all night so this last resort to obtain something to eat proved futile nor could I have done anything had I met with an oppertunity because of my health which seemed from all appearance to be on the wane.

[Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Jul 7, 1846

Letter on Emigration-- See notes to following document. Almon W. Babbitt, Joseph Heywood and John S. Fullmer, trustees of the church at Nauvoo. "Beloved brethren-we send you another leaf of the gospel, which you know is glad tidings, or that which bringeth salvation." [Then is announced the determination to send the five hundred men to California as per Kearney's orders to Allen, and Little's information to them when passing through Nauvoo en route for the camps.] "By this time you will probably exclaim, is this the gospel? We answer yes.
"Now, brethren, it is time for action; and if you succeed in selling all our property in Hancock county, and as unitedly succeed in removing all the poor saints this fall, we shall soon be where we can rejoice in each other's society, and by early spring can move a portion of the camp over the mountains and next spring plant our corn in yonder valley. This is the first time the government has stretched forth its arm to our assistance, and we receive their proffers with joy and thankfulness. We feel confident they [the battalion] will have little or no fighting. The pay of the five hundred men will take their families to them. The 'Mormons' will then be the old settlers and have a chance to choose the best locations. The principle of the thing is not new to us, but we have thought best to say little about it. It is all right, and we will give you particulars the first opportunity."
This letter is signed by Brigham Young, "for the council," Willard Richards, Clerk. (History of Brigham Young, Ms., 1846, bk. 2, pp. 30-34.) {1846-July 7-CHC 3:81-82}

[source: Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]

Mormon History, Jul 7, 1846

Letter Regarding the Mormon Battalion-- While Brigham Young and his company were at Mt. Pisgah, Iowa, a number of letters were written giving instructions to the Church and directing several phases of its activities including the enlistment of the Mormon Battalion. On May 23, 1846, a letter was written to President William Huntington. No available copy of this letter has been located. On July 7, 1846, President Young wrote at least three letters. Two of them were to the Saints at Garden Grove, Iowa, and the third to the Trustees of the Church at Nauvoo, Illinois. Two of the letters are presented here in abstracted form. The originals have not been located. The letter to Samuel Bent and the Council and the Saints at Garden Grove seems to be in full. All three letters deal primarily with the recruitment of the Mormon Battalion. For additional background for this letter see: CHC 3:80-83; RCH 2:218-225.
Mount Pisgah, July 7, 1846. President Samuel Bent and Council and the Saints at Garden Grove: Beloved Brethren:-We write and send by a special messenger at this time, that you may be apprized of the situation and welfare of the Church, and what will be for the good of the saints at your place. Brothers Young, Kimball and Richards arrived last evening direct from Council Bluffs (where they left about eight hundred wagons, passed about the same number on the road, besides the hundreds here and between here and Nauvoo) for the purpose of raising five hundred "Mormon" volunteers to enter into the service of the United States, under the command of Captain James Allen of the United States army, who will be lieut-Col. of the Battalion, each company electing their own officers under Col. Allen, to be marched forthwith to Fort Leavenworth, there receive their arms, ammunition, camp and hospital stores, follow Col. Kearney's trail to Santa Fe, join his standard, pass through the upper provinces of Mexico, into California, where they are to be disbanded at the expiration of one year from the day they leave Council Bluffs, receive the fitout and pay of regular soldiers of the United States army, and have their arms and equipment given them in addition; that they may stay, look out the best locations for themselves and friends, and defend the country. This is no hoax. Elder Little, President of the New England churches, is here also direct from Washington, who has been to see the President on the subject of emigrating the Saints to the western coast, and confirms all that Capt. Allen has stated to us.
The United States wants our friendship, the President wants to do us good and secure our confidence. The outfit of these five hundred men costs us nothing, and their pay will be sufficient to take their families over the mountains. There is war between Mexico and the U. S. to whom California must fall a prey, and if we are the first settlers, the old citizens cannot have a Hancock or Missouri pretext to mob the saints. The thing is from above for our good, has long been understood between us and the U. S. Government, but the first blow was struck sooner than we anticipated, the Church would not help the Twelve over the mountains when they wanted to go, and now we will help the churches.
We must take these five hundred men from among the teamsters, and send them without delay. If there is any one among you over eighteen and under forty-five that wants to and can go let him be at Council Bluffs forthwith. Drummers and fifers are wanted. Where is Bro. Hales and the rest of the band?
The places of these five hundred teamsters-soldiers must be immediately supplied, and we want you to gather up all the old men and boys and all the others who are capable of going into the army, driving oxen, herding cattle and sheep, milking cows, chopping wood, drawing water, cutting grass, pitching and stacking hay etc., from the farm, and those who may be in Missouri at work and all others within your call, and dispatch them to Council Bluffs forthwith, or five hundred teams must be left without drivers.
Captain Allen guarantees to us the privilege of staying anywhere we please on Indian lands, if we send these five hundred men to California, but recommends Grand Island, in the Platte River, as the best place. This is the spot we had before contemplated for to winter. There is a salt spring at the head of the Island, where buffalo resort, and we can make our own salt. Thither we want to go without delay, with all the teams of the camp, unload from five hundred to one thousand of the wagons to return immediately to Nauvoo, Garden Grove, Etc., and before spring carry to the Platte every poor but honest soul that has no means to go, or every saint who wants to go and cannot.
The fifteen or sixteen hundred teams west of this are mostly loaded with one year's provision, and Garden Grove and Mount Pisgah, we expect, will yield a valuable harvest to be conveyed forward by the teams that will return after the poor.
It is an important item to cut hay for our stock; we have teams enough in the Church, and they must be fed, and every team and man, that does not return from Grand Island, must go into the grass field without delay. But "Can't I go now?" says one sister; "Do take me," says another. "If my son or my husband goes, I shall go, you are not going to leave me here till you come back," say fifty more. All right, sisters, we are glad to see the spirit of western emigration prevail; we have long heard your cries and listened to your entreaties, and we now listen again in anticipation, and if you must come, clothe yourselves in appropriate garments, straddle your mules and horses, come on and drive teams and pitch hay; if you cannot do this, make yourselves as comfortable as possible till your husbands can go to Grand Island and get a good wagon or carriage to take you on your journey and no whining about it; and when you come up with us in this style of ladies, we will be glad to see and bless you, and we bless you now.
The demand we are making on you for every man and boy (only enough left to watch the farm crops and herds) we shall make immediately in all the regions of Nauvoo, and there must be no deafness on the subject. If the brethren back there do not leave all and come immediately, what will become of our cattle next winter? And if we let them die, what will become of us? Where is our milk and beef? But, say you, "What shall be done with Garden Grove?" Sell it, i.e. the improvements, as soon as you have a chance, and give possession when the crops are removed, and sooner too, if you can get pay for the crops, and come on. Some of the Missourians ought to be glad to give a handsome sum for Garden Grove to get rid of their neighbors.
We want the Bros. Hales in the army as musicians. For the Council BRIGHAM YOUNG, President WILLARD RICHARDS, Clerk. {1846-July 7-RCH 2:223-225}

[source: Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)]

Mormon History, Jul 7, 1846

[Brigham Young Discourse] We have a few things to say cheering to you, and that is we have come begging again but we have something more to say about begging. I will tell you the principle of my discourse and that is when you are told to do a thing to do it. Brother Kimball, Richards and myself have come along with our escort. We sent Parley along and now we have come to tease you and try your faith and prove you in every sense of the word. We have come to fit out some 500 men instead of 100 - And I want to know how many teams, wagons and what provisions there are. Do you see we have not come to destroy what Parley has done but to back him up. I will now go into facts, When we contemplate the immense revolution in the church it is absolutely necessary. And no man or set of men that will set down in ease will ever have the privilege of obtaining the fullness of the everlasting gospel - and the truth is that God will try and prove you that you may obtain the blessings and exaltations. We have been trying to do what Joseph had been trying to do - to search out a location in the west. Since his death we have not been able to do it - Allowing that Joseph was called and inspired and making prophetic declarations of what would be done for this people. I will say that since Joseph has laid down his life, all the purposes of Joseph must be accomplished. And now the mob has driven us into this thing - but woe to them by whom these offences come, For it must needs be that offences come. It was the will of the Lord Joseph desired a place and a place will be provided. Do you not see the purpose of God in all this. We acknowledge the hand of the Lord in all this. See our trails, afflictions and why? It is desired to purify your hearts like the gold purified in the fire, and it will bring the judgments of God upon the wicked - it is the peace of the Lord that makes his people happy - We want to perform a thing that the people will rejoice in - There is an understanding between the people belonging to this church and Uncle Sam. The people of the US want that country (Mexico), but according to arrangements President Polk has sent to Col. Kearney - he has had word to come among the Mormons, and give up that country to the Mormons and their brethren. And the government fit them out for one year with a supply of guns, provisions and clothes - We know all the route and the people there. The brethren are to receive their seven dollars per month after they are discharged to enable them to reach their homes, 150,000 men from the States have offered themselves as volunteers and more than that number and they have been rejected - Now there is another thing. Suppose the people had done as they were instructed to - to take out the High Council if the people done as they had been told, we should have been at the Rocky Mountains - If they had taken council we had no need of raising 500 men, and the country would have been redeemed - Suppose we had been there Captain Allen would have had nothing to day to the Mormons - Well we will all get away after all and God will favor us. If there had been power enough in the church we ought to have been to the place which God would have pointed out. There are about 1000 wagons and 766 yoke of cattle back. But if we took those wagons we should be at a lose for cattle herding. We shall want teamsters. We shall want teamsters. (After we get to Grand Island we want to send back from 500 to 1000 wagons - we want no more wagons. but must send them back to gather up the poor here) With regard to settling on Indian lands. They, the government, have no right to tax the people. This land belongs to the Pottawattamies. There is no difficulties with the Pottawattamies. We are welcome to settle here. The president will send you a letter to give you power to possess the land and secure you against invasion. At the Bluffs if you build or put in crops and make improvements you can get your pay for it. We are in the midst of the Indian traders, they are continually bringing firs and peltries and they prefer hiring than to draw themselves and the people are very courteous. Captain Allen is quite at home and has caught the spirit of Mormons. Now look at this thing. Brother Little's going to Washington, the Indians feeling so friendly and the call of the government for us to take possession and reject 150,000 men on our account. I feel like singing glory! hallelujah!. And such is the prospect that we don't feel in a hurry about it. We are going to stop on the island. I feel that the poor in Nauvoo are going west. God help our poor, the rich can take care of themselves. -- Mosquito Creek, Iowa [Leonard J. Arrington Papers, Special Collections, Merrill-Cazier Library, Utah State University, Logan.. (A reference reading LJA 12-55-5, 10, means LJA Series 12, Box 55, Folder 5, page 10.) 12-41-5, 35-37]

[source: The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009)]

Mormon History, Jul 7, 1846

[Brigham Young Discourse] Tuesday went to meeting, heard Presidents Young and Kimball. They had come from Council Bluffs to enlist soldiers for the war. -- Mosquito Creek, Iowa [Lorenzo Brown Diary, Archives, Church History Library, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Salt Lake City, Utah.. Also The Journal of Lorenzo Brown 1823-1900, Heritage Press, 1975. 9]

[source: The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009)]

Mormon History, Jul 7, 1846

[Brigham Young Discourse] I addressed the brethren on the subject of raising a battalion to march to California, and was followed by Elders James C. Little and Heber C. Kimball. -- Mosquito Creek, Iowa [Manuscript History of Brigham Young, 1846- 1847. Elden J. Watson, ed. Salt Lake City: Smith Secretarial Service, 1971.:221]

[source: The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009)]

Mormon History, Jul 7, 1846

[Brigham Young Discourse] Brigham told them they must learn to obey counsel, and although the movements were strange, yet the hands of the Lord was in them. Said he came begging but that those moneyed need not begin to tremble, for it was men that were wanted. He wanted 500 men to volunteer to go to California. The US proposed to equip that number of Mormons, if they would go and take possession of California. The Lord was working in their behalf, for here was an offer to take five hundred to the place of destination and under the protection of the United States, that if they had done as he directed in the winter, that there would have been no need of this enlistment for the Twelve would have been in California, and then when they called for volunteers, they could have told them that they were going right where they desired. The Lord was working with the hearts of the President and rulers and now both friends and enemies were conspiring to aid in their removal and that Brother Little had been influenced by the spirit to go and confer with the president and had made the same arrangements provided they were sanctioned by the Twelve and he had now come on to get counsel. -- Mosquito Creek, Iowa [Thomas Bullock Minutes, LJA; Thomas Bullock—LDS Church Reporter, 1844-56.C, Archives, Church History Library, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Salt Lake City, Utah.; GCM, Archives, Church History Library, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Salt Lake City, Utah..; Leonard J. Arrington Papers, Special Collections, Merrill-Cazier Library, Utah State University, Logan.. (A reference reading LJA 12-55-5, 10, means LJA Series 12, Box 55, Folder 5, page 10.) 9-12-1, 120]

[source: The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009)]

Mormon History, Jul 7, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 7th Was An exeeding Hot day. Our cattle came near melting. Some oxen on the way did melt down. We camped at night within 12 miles of Council Bluffs. A camp of Indians were near us.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Monday, Jul 6, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Pleasant. Arose at 4, washed and rode on at 4 ½ [4:30]. Breakfast at 8 with Ezra Chase about four miles east of Bramble Hill, having taken the new route on the left. In the course of the day met or passed Brothers Stokes, Fields, Samuel Gully, Yates, Groves, Fare, Eldridge, Baum, and after bating our horses on the prairie about 11 miles from Mt. Pisgah, met C. C. Rich and Brother Little, presiding elder of Northeast and New York, Daniel Russell, prayed for his wife, and stopped at Father CutlerÂ's and Elder CahoonÂ's camps about three miles from Mt. Pisgah. Had tea with Sister J. P. Green. Elder Kimball tarried overnight. The others rode to Mt. Pisgah, about 7½, and put up with Father Huntington and General Rich. Brothers Rich and Little returned to Mt. Pisgah with the Presidency.
Brother Little was direct from Washington by way of Nauvoo, having been to see the President about emigrating to the western coast, and had an understanding with him that the Saints might enlist to go to California, etc., the same mission that Captain J. Allen was on, and Rich and Little were on their way to Council Bluffs to see the council during the day. The PresidentÂ's carriage met or passed 241 wagons, besides 63 encamped on the creek opposite the town of Mt. Pisgah, making in all between the encampment at the Bluffs and Mt. Pisgah, 800 wagons and carriages.

[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Jul 6, 1846. Monday.

[William Clayton Journal] Spent the day fixing wagons. Day very hot. Bishop Whitney called to see us. They are getting over the river as fast as possible but it is slow work . . .

[source: George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]

Mormon History, Jul 6, 1846

[Mormon Battalion] After leaving the Mount Pigsah encampment to meet with LDS leaders in Council Bluffs, Iowa, Allen returns, accompanied by Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball and Willard Richards. (Kimball and Richards eventually became Young's counselors in the First Presidency, but Young was not sustained as president of the church until 1847.)
Young encourages the men of the camp to enlist, declaring that their service will demonstrate loyalty to the U.S. government, and that their wages will be of great benefit to their families and to the church.

[source: Mormon Battalion Timeline, Herald Extra, March 25, 2010]

Mormon History, Jul 6, 1846

[Hosea Stout Diary] Monday July the 6th 1846. To day I went to the river to see Rockwood and others and try to find out what I had best do and moreover to learn what the President intended for me to do next as I had executed his last order to me. On my way thither I fell in company with Col. Scott.He was very friendly but did not seem to take any interest in my wellfare any way.I learned from him that he and Rockwood was still engaged in a "Punic War" with each other about their right and rank over one another and he came very near giving Rockwood a "brushing" as he said not long ago.I passed through the Indian village which consisted of some scattering houses and was mixed up with French & half breeds[.] All not amounting to many.This was where they kept their trading houses & a large business no dout is carried on
I found Rockwood at the Ferry. Br Lee had just started to Missouri to trade & I did not see him.Rockwood said he would help me and told me where to go and get meal without an order which would amount to begging on my part so I did not do it.I concluded that I would rather starve than live thus ignominously in the midst of the Saints[.] He knew that the president intended to have me provided for but could not tell what to do for the present.
I crossed the river. The hill is uncommonly steep on the other side[.] The landing was at the mouth of a deep ravine up which it was now contemplated to make a road as it would not then be a very steep hill to assend.I went with Rockwood O. Pratt. G. A. Smith and some others up this ravine to explore it in view of making this road[.] It was heavy timbered and the wildness of its appearance was yet undisturbed.The hill very high on either side[.] We were sometimes near being led off by ravines coming into the one contemplated for the road and it was truly a "wildering maze" more than a public road.
We traced it to its head and found it a good and practable rout for a road. It intersected the road I should think one mile from the river by way of the road but not more than half a mile up the ravine
On my way home I fell in company with Father Harris & had a long talk with him, he advised me to enlist & go with the soldiers to Santa Fe as he said taking all the circumstances together. I then returned home again as I went not yet knowing what to do.
In the evening I saw & related the same to Br Hyde whereupon he advised me to go to Br Luther Bunnell and see if he would let me have something to subsist upon but it was like Rockwoods help for me to beg it so I did not go.
I was now left without recource to look to or hope for[.] I had to make my own arraingements to live or starve before the President returned

[Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Jul 6, 1846

George Miller: Crossed Missouri River 6 July 1846.

[source: Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]

Mormon History, Jul 6, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 6th It was A warm day. We continued our journey And camped at night at the same place whare I camped in the grass with Br Parley. An Indian Chief And some squaes camped near us. The Indian said He was going to meet with mormons & smoke the pipe of peace.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Saturday, Jul 5, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Creek. One a.m., skies become clear and all calm. Sun rose clear. Oquakee Indians, White Hawk Chief, etc., encamped near Father Morley's last night, were hungry. President Young told Brother ... to give them a fat cow and he would give him another at the Bluffs. They were very glad. After breakfast started at 8½ [8:30], met Evan H. Green, who turned back and went with the company. Met Captain Olive and company, Woodworth, C. P. Lott, and the Perkins from LeHarpe, at a creek. [At 11:30] 11½ a.m., President Young preached to them with little effort after turning his carriage to go on. Reproved Captain Andrew Perkins for harboring a wrong spirit in his company, to which Captain Perkins responded with gratitude for the reproof. Rode on at 12¼ [12:15]. At 1, met E. T. Benson's family where they dined. Staid till 4. Phinehas Richards was near there. Passed James Allred's camp, Wolfs, William Pritchard, Lewis Nealy, Downs, Mower, Hale, etc., and put up with Brother Alfred Randall, having counted 242 wagons. At 9 evening, stopped and slept in his tent.

[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]
[Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Jul 5, 1846

[Hosea Stout Diary] Sunday July the 5th 1846. This morning I went on it being warm clear & pleasant. We did not go more than a mile before we came to some camps which were the outer camps of the main encampment although the Ferry across the Missouri was yet twelve miles.We did not go for [far] from this first part of the Grand encampment before I went on and left the teams to follow as fast as they could.
I went on in search of Elder Orson Hyde as he was the one now to consult in the absence of the president. I found him on a fine ridge which I called Hydes ridge He was just starting to meeting.I made known to him my situation and the orders of Brigham to me and desired him to let me know what to do.He was entirely ignorant of what was wanted or required of me.He seemed to manifest a soft feeling for my situation and requested me to come & camp by him.He then went to meeting & I to meet my teams which were now not for behind.I accordingly encamped by him as he had requested my cattle being now worn down again.
After resting while I piched my tent and prepared to be as comfortable as I could for I expected to stay here some time
In the evening I went with my wife to see her mother who was about one mile down on the point of this ridge[.] Our feeling on meeting was very tender without a word being said we all burst into tears in remembrance of the loss of my little son Hosea.
From Mother Taylors I went, leaving my wife there to see Captain James Allen the United States officer and found him on another ridge neatly situated under an artificial bower near his tents with several men in attendance having the "Striped Star Spangled Banner" floating above them. He was a plain non assuming man without that proud over bearing strut and self concieted dignaty which some call an officer-like appearance.I came up and commenced a conversation with him.In a short time after which he at my request related in a short consise and intelligable manner, the circumstances of which led to and the famous battles fought on the 8th and 9th of May last on the Rio Grande near Metamoras between the United States & Mexico and which was beginning of hostilities between the two nations.
The particulars of which I need not relate I was much pleased with his manner as a gentleman notwithstanding my prejudice against, not only him but also the government which he was sent here to represent[.] From here I returned to Mother Taylors after my wife and went home

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Jul 5, 1846

John C. Bennett is baptized into James J. Strang's Church of Jesus Christ and ordained high priest.

[source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]

Mormon History, Jul 5, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 5th Sunday We Journied slowly through the day & camped.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Saturday, Jul 4, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Very pleasant. Northwest wind. At 8, in carriage ready to start when P. P. Pratt, W. Woodruff, E. T. Benson, and Solomon Hancock came up on return from raising volunteers as pioneers to go over the mountains. 84 volunteers were reported, and some 50 dollars. P. P. Pratt and Solomon Hancock, about 9, went on to headquarters. Brother Woodruff returned about 20 miles and met his family. Joseph S. Scofield met his wife at the same place and returned to headquarters. President and suite passed Pottawattamie [Pottawatamie] town about sun half hour high and encamped eight miles east with Father Morley, having passed 206 wagons, and met William Weeks, Frank Pullen, Brother Huntsucker, John Murdock, Isaac Houston, Brother Pierce, etc., etc. Brother Young and Richards lay down in Father MorleyÂ's tent about 10½ [10:30]. Soon the rain, thunder, and lightning commenced, blew up the tent; they held it down till someone pinned it, though the ends were gone, and they crawled into Brother Joseph S. Clark's wagon with his family. The storm continued to rage till Father MorleyÂ's tent blew quite down, and other tents in the neighborhood. Water fell abundantly. They lay on the edge of the wagon box, etc., their clothes wet.

[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Jul 4, 1846. Saturday.

[William Clayton Journal] This morning my horses and 5 from Clarks company were missing. I went on this [] west [] eight miles []. Diantha having eaten nothing this morning I tried to buy some bread but could not get it till I got home. We arrived at 3 o'clock and found my little Vilate sick the rest all well. I went over to Council at Captain [] Allens tent.

[source: George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]

Mormon History, Jul 4, 1846

[Hosea Stout Diary] Saturday July the 4th 1846. This morning I proceded on my journey slowly for my team was very weak and the weather hot & sultry. After traveling about six miles we came to another Creek at which there was a small grove.
This was called Cag-Creek [Keg Creek]. Here my oxen was about given out again.We turned here and rested and watered our cattle and remained untill five oclock and then started again in the cool of the day[.] We traveled about three miles and encamped in the prairie.There was a hard storm & rain to night but we did not get wet.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Jul 4, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 4 July We arose saddled our beasts rode about 10 miles & took breakfast with some Brethren. As we had no supper our appetites were good. We were here informed that President B Young H. C. Kimble & W. Richards were but A short distance from us encamped. Were on there way to mount Pisgah.
We immediately rode down whare they were And it was truly A Happy meeting. I rejoiced to once more strike hands with those noble men. They insisted upon my returning with them so Br Benson & myself with several of the life guard returned untill I met my family & company. Here I had the privilege of introducing to them my father & others. After spending A little time together they continued there Journey to Mount Pisgah to raise 500 volunteers to go to Calafornia And I stoped with my family.
It was a Hot day. I had rode about 50 miles And was exeeding sore And stiff And almost sick.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Jul 3, 1846. Friday.

[William Clayton Journal] Started early and went about 4 miles to a creek [] ate breakfast. The day very hot but we traveled about 95 miles. We met President Young, Heber Kimball, and Dr. Richards going back to raise volunteers. They feel that this is a good prospect for our deliverance and if we don't do it we are doomed. After [questioning] them we went on and camped near Hiram Clark and took supper with him.

[source: George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]

Mormon History, Jul 3, 1846 (Friday)

Pres. Brigham Young and others started for Mount Pisgah, where they arrived on the 6th, after having met eight hundred wagons and carriages.

[source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

Mormon History, Jul 3, 1846

[Hosea Stout Diary] Friday July the 3rd 1846. We started very earley & drove hard and my oxen give out after we went about 12 miles & the company went on and left me. It was a point of timber after crossing a creek and a good place at which there was a beautiful spring that I had encamped[.] Here I was left in a destitute situation[.] For my provisions had given out while at the Nodaway and we were driven to the necessaty of boiling corn to sustain life[.] When we started to travel after finishing the bridge we prepared some to travel on which had now given out and left us with nothing for our supper untill we could boil more which could not be done tonight.I will here state that while with Br Billings, a man by the name of Henry Nepeker, who did not belong to the church kindly let me have the use of two of his cows which furnished us in milk but not as much as we needed[.] He also in the mein time gave me a piece of bacon and lent me ten pounds of flour and was in fact very kind to me.I mention this because I tried to procure provision of the brethren who would not let me have it for the money neither lend it to me They knowing my situation.
We were now left without the use of the cows and entirely left destitute and what to do we knew not[.] But a Br Daniel Wood and his company came up after a while & he let me have a peck of meal very reluctantly[.] I also procured a few pounds of flour from another man which relieved us.this time & we felt again satisfied.
Before night this encampment was filled with a large camp for the brethren were coming in untill dark.
A short time before dark we saw a carrage and horsemen coming from towards the Bluffs & many supposed that it might be the United States officer & some one thing & some another[.] But it proved to be President Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball and Willard Richards of the Twelve and they were escorted by G. W. Langley James H. Glines Thomas Williams and Joseph S. Scofield
They were on their way to Pisgah & Garden Grove. I had a few minutes interview with President Young who briefly told me that they were going to comply with the requisitions of the President of the United States and furnish the 500 men demanded and that there was a good feeling existing between us and him & all was right & that they were going to Pisgah & Garden Grove to raise the men &c.Their presence seemed to give new life to all the camp who flocked around them and asking so many questions that they could not answer any of them[.] But after a few words of comfort to us they went on.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Jul 3, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 3d At 10 oclock Br Pratt returned in company with Br Benson who had been nominated to fill the place And wear the Crown of John E Page. They wished me to return to the Bluffs with them. So I saddled my Horse & started And had an interesting time once more with Br Parley.
And to add to the interest of the days ride we passed through the main village of the Potawattame Indians the first time I ever passed through A large village of indians in my life.
After viewing the village & indians awhile And drinking out of A cold spring we continued our Journey. We rode untill dark then unsaddled our Horses And we made our bed in the grass on the side of A Hill. But the Musketoes soon routed us out And we had to go to the top of the Bill And again lay down & spent the night in the wind. I felt quite stiff & sore in the morning.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Friday, Jul 3, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Missouri River. About 9 a.m., Elders Young, Kimball, and Richards, started in President Young's carriage. Called at John D. LeeÂ's encampment, and stopped at the Mosquito encampment. About 1 p.m., fed horses, dined, etc. Passed on at 2½ [2:30] towards Mt. Pisgah, meeting George A. Smith, O. Pratt, and O. Hyde by the way. [At 2:15] 2 1/4, rode on. Strong east wind. Clouds arose in the west. About 5, passed different companies traveling and encamped. One of 9 wagons, one of 6, 5, 7, 25, 28. Hiram Clark and Hosea Stout and etc., one William Clayton, five Galland, twenty Brown. Total 108 wagons. Put up with Eben Brown and Brother Barnard at 9½ [9:30], having traveled about 34 miles, on the creek near the big spring about six miles east of the west branch of the Nishonee Botany. Brother Joseph S. Scofield, Glines, Thomas Williams, George Langly accompanied these carriages on horseback. Very cheerful on the ride, conversed with the brethren about enlisting till near midnight. Nancy B., wife of John Freeman, delivered of a daughter named Rosaline Beal, 6 p.m. Reported by Patty Sessions.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Thursday, Jul 2, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Missouri River. President Young finished crossing his family, and in the evening returned to Brother J. D. LeeÂ's encampment on the east. side of the river. Elders Kimball and Richards visited the river about noon, found they could not cross, returned to their encampment and dug a well about 10 feet deep, plenty of good water.

[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Jul 2, 1846

[Hosea Stout Diary] Thursday July 2nd 1846. We commenced moving again to day[.] There was a general rush to cross the bridge. Every one seemed to be afraid that he could not get over before it would be gone.Which created a great deal of confusion and some feelings[.] In fact the bridge looked as though it would not last long for as the water [rose] it put in something of a "bad fix"
The bridge which was about one mile ahead and had also been finished yesterday came very near breaking down. But it was soon arrainged so that it was safe
There was large companies of Indians followed us today for several miles and in fact they thronged around us all the time we were building the bridge & at times would come in droves to the camp but they were very civil friendly & good natured and done none of us any injury while we were here.
They would amuse themselves sometimes by swimming in the creek in large numbers and sometimes at playing cards at which they seemed to be very dexterous. They appeared to be much interested at our opperations while at work which seemed to be a great novelty to them.
We traveled about 18 miles today and encamped in the prairie just after crossing a small deep stream. Here we found a good cool, clear spring of water.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Jul 2, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 2d We journied untill about 7 oclok & Camped. I recieved An insult from Br Badham And others Bendered my progress And I felt to reprove them Sharply.

[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Wednesday, Jul 1, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Missouri River. Pleasant. At 9, Presidents Young, Kimball, Richards, P. Pratt, rode to Elder TaylorÂ's camp at Mosquito where they met O. Hyde, George A. Smith, J. Taylor, John Smith, Levi Richards, and others. Captain James Allen of the U S. Army and two others, first regiment of dragoons, Fort Leavenworth, when Captain Allen read his authority from Colonel S. W. Kearney of the Army of the West, dated June 19, 1846, for him to proceed to the Mormon Camp and enlist from 3 to 500 men to go to California by way of Santa Fe. Each company to enlist of from 73 to 109. Captain, first and second lieutenant, four laundresses to each company. Also read a circular to the Mormon camp for enlistment. Captains and lieutenants to be elected by the privates.
[At] 20 past 11, council sent for the brethren within call to assemble. Captain Allen presented the Â"reveille,Â" and O. Hyde read an extract from the Hancock Eagle of the 13th June, that 400 armed men were within striking distance of Nauvoo, and a company at Golden's Point. [At a quarter] ¼ to 12, adjourned to the wagon stand where the people were addressed by Captain Allen, introduced by President Young; that he was sent by Colonel Kearney, through the benevolence of President, l00s and l000s of volunteers ready in the states. Read his orders from Colonel Kearney and Captain Allen's circular to the Mormons, and explained.
At 12 noon, President Young addressed the assembly, wished them to make a distinction between this action of the government, and our former oppressors. Is it prudent for us to enlist to defend the country, the U. S., if so all are ready to go. If we were a state and the President did not call on us we would feel ourselves neglected, well we are noticed by him. Last year this people expected to have been there, but the blow was struck a little too soon. Let the Mormons be the first men to set their feet on that soil. Captain Allen has assumed the responsibility of saying that we may go to Grand Island and stay till they can go on, or the young men return. It is the first offer we have ever had to benefit us one whit, and proposed that the 500 men be raised, that he would see all their families brought forward as far as his reach, and feed them when he had to eat. 12:25 minutes, Captain Allen said he would write the President to give us leave to stay on the route where it is necessary, that 18 of bread, 3/4 pork bacon paid over in two months, camp kettle, two pans, one tent to every six men.
Elder Kimball moved, second by W. Richards, that 500 be raised. General vote, and President Young walked out as orderly sergeant by his clerk, W. Richards, took names as follows, Eli B. Hewitt, Joseph Matthews, Frederick N. Bainbridge, George W. Rosecrans, Charles Hancock, Henrys S. Dalton, John M. Lewis, James H. Glines, George S. Sexton, Willard Smith, (Ebenezer Harmon) only 13 July, William Reynolds. [At 12:55] 5 min to one, dismissed till 10 a.m. tomorrow, to the slough near the old campground near the river.
The Twelve and Captain Allen repaired to Mr. Taylor's tent. Has not an officer enlisting men on Indian lands to say to their families you can stay till your husbands return, says President Young? Captain Allen that he was a representative of the President, and he could act till he could notify the President, and the President was bound to ratify his doings or indemnify for damage, and that the President might give permission to travel through the Indian country and stop wherever and whenever circumstances might require. [At 1:30] 1½, Captain Allen left, and the Twelve continued to converse on the good prospect before us, and they wanted to get 500 men to go. Voted that Presidents Young and Kimball go to Mt. Pisgah to raise volunteers. President Young said he would start in the morning. President Young said the companies must be organized, see who can go to the island and who must remain. After raising the troops, the Twelve to go on with their families.
About 2, part of the council dined with Elder Taylor. About 4, Presidents Young, Kimball, and Richards returned to their encampments. Young and Richards to the river whither their teams had gone, and some of P. Young's gone over. Boat moved slowly, little help, and Kimball moved forward with his encampment to be near the ferry, but President Young turned back and informed him he could not cross, and he turned and encamped 3/4 miles west of the town. Elder Richards took his family and teams to the same place where was no water. President Young continued to cross.

[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Jul 1, 1846. Wednesday.

[William Clayton Journal] P. P. Pratt passed about 6 o'clock. We afterwards learned that he was going on express to Pisgah to raise the 500 volunteers to go to Santa Fe. After traveling about 7 miles we rested with Brother [William?] Weeks and ate breakfast, then went on till 2 o'clock and stopped to feed. We continued on till dark . . .

[source: George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]

Mormon History, Jul 1, 1846 (Afternoon)

[Brigham Young Discourse] Pres. Young said there is no mail before the Church concerning the Silver Creek branch, where Father Cutler resides '" during the late war he was acquainted with many Indians in York State who went to Green Bay. They saw him again at Winter Quarters, when they urged him to go down and build mills and establish a school among them. I told him to go down, [wash or work] and get his outfit '" this has been turned into an under current of fire. [-] destroyed his influence. -- Mosquito Creek, Iowa [Quorum of the Twelve Minutes, Archives, Church History Library, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Salt Lake City, Utah..]

[source: The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009)]

Mormon History, Jul 1, 1846

[Mormon Battalion] Allen journeyed from Mt. Pisgah to Council Bluffs, where on 1 July 1846 he allayed Mormon fears by giving permission for the Saints to encamp on United States lands if the Mormons would raise the desired battalion. Brigham Young accepted this, recognizing that the enlistment of the battalion was the first time the government had stretched forth its arm to aid the Mormons.

[source: Utah History Encyclopedia: Mormon Battalion, http://www.media.utah.edu/UHE/m/MORMONBATTALION.html]

Mormon History, Jul 1, 1846

[Hosea Stout Diary] Wednesday July the 1st 1846. To day all hands went to work at the bridge. Earley in the morning a lot of them met there before the rest and appointed a new Foreman and commenced work.But as soon as the rest came they were not satisfied with him and so they had a new election and appointed a new one again this was Raymond Clark.He was more fortunate than the to others who preceeded him.For all hands went to work under him appearantly well satisfied.His plan was to rebuild the old bridge or in other words to build on the place where the old one was which was on a large raft or as some call it a drift on which the former bridge was built.He succeeded in uniting all the hands in his opinion so that they all went to work and about sun down finished it.This might have been done the first day had the matter been planed & executed as it was today by a competent foreman.At noon I went home and stayed there the rest of the day.On my way home I met a large company of hands coming to work on the bridgethese were the men belonging to Henry W. Millers company which had just arrived and encamped[.] Our encampment now was very large[.] The hills were full of our tents & waggons and seemed to be nearley as large as the first camp when it started in February

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]
[Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Jul 1, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] July 1st After travling A few miles we re-cieved A visit from Elder P. P. Pratt who was direct from council Bluffs And Bad A message to All the camp of Israel.
I formed A circle of Some 50 waggons And the substance of his errand was that He wanted A company of men raised immediately to go to the mountains without there families to pick out A location And put in spring & fall Crops. The quorum of the Twelve volunteered to go. After we got our Message I drove A head as fast as possible with my teams. We drove 20 miles with our ox waggons And camped for the night about 10 oclok both man And beast wearied out. We crossed the 18 mile prairie.

[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Jul 01, 1846

At Mosquito Creek (near Council Bluffs, Iowa), Captain James Allen of the U.S. Army discusses with Brigham Young the government's proposal to enlist five hundred Mormon volunteers for the war with Mexico.

[source: The Woodland Institute 'On This Day Historical Database,' http://www.woodlandinstitute.com]

Mormon History, June 1846

[Heber C. Kimball] Arrives in what becomes Council Bluffs, Iowa

[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]
[source: 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]

Mormon History, June 1846

William Smith: Apostle and patriarch in Strang's Church of Jesus Christ 16 June 1846

[source: 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, http://amzn.to/origins-power]

Mormon History, June 1846

John E Page: Excommunicated again from LDS church 27 June 1846

[source: 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, http://amzn.to/origins-power]

Mormon History, June 1846

Amos Fielding, who returned to Nauvoo this month, counted 902 west-bound wagons in three days. By this some idea may be formed of the number of teams on the road at that time.

[source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

Mormon History, 1846 June

A call was made, by the general government, for the Mormon Battalion.

[source: Richards, Franklin Dewey and Little, James A., Compendium of the Doctrines of the Gospel, Church Chronology, Ch.66, p.306, http://www.amazon.com/Compendium-Doctrines-Gospel-ebook/dp/B002LTY4Z0?ie=UTF8tag=mormonchronic-20link_code=btlcamp=213689creative=392969]

Mormon History, Sunday, Jun 30, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Mosquito. Presidents Young, Kimball, and Richards moved their families on the flats near their old encampment. George A. Smith, A. Lyman, and O. Pratt began to move. Shower about 1 p.m., which hindered the movement. Evening, Brothers Grover and Lewis at headquarters. Informed the council Captain Allen of the U. S. Army had arrived on the hill and wanted volunteers; had agreed to counsel in the morning at 10 with Young, Kimball, Richards, etc., in O. Pratt's tent. Agreed it was best to meet them in the morning and raise the men wanted. Adjourned about 10½ [10:30] and went to bed.

[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Jun 30, 1846 (Tuesday)

Capt. Allen arrived at Council Bluffs, and on the following day he met with the authorities of the Church, showing his authority for raising five hundred volunteers from the camps of the Saints. The same day Pres. Young and Capt. Allen addressed the brethren who had assembled, and the general council voted unanimously to comply with the requisition from the government.

[source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

Mormon History, Jun 30, 1846

U.S. army officers ask church leaders at Kanesville (Council Bluffs), Iowa, to raise 500 volunteers for the Mexican War. Brigham Young had previously commissioned Jesse C. Little to secretly negotiate army service for 2,000 Mormons to finance exploration of the Great Basin. But in public sermons Young would insist that the Mormon Battalion was a necessary accommodation to the U.S. president's threat to annihilate the Mormons if they did not comply.

[source: On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]

Mormon History, Jun 30, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 30th When I started from Mount Pisgah I Had six waggons one carriage sixteen yoak of cattle And 7 cows 2 mules & one Horse. In all 42 Head.
The bridge was finished this morning & we gatherd up our cattle & started about 9 oclok. I stoped my Carriage on the top of a rolling prairie And I had most A splendid view. I could stand And gaze to the east west North & South & behold the Saints pouring out & gathering like clouds from the Hills & dales grove & prairie with there teams, waggons, flocks, & Heards by Hunderds & thousands as it were untill it looked like the movements of A great Nation.
We travled 10 miles & camped at a point of timber on the edge of an 18 mile prairie & camped.
Mrs Woodruff was quite unwell through the day but better at night.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Monday, Jun 29, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Mosquito. Pleasant. Council together. O. Hyde nominated E. T. Benson to take the crown of John E. Page, and council wrote him accordingly (letter on file). Also letter to William Huntington and council, to help raise a company of pioneers (on file), and sent 10 a.m. by P. P. Pratt and Solomon Hancock, with a mail of 27 letters. The boat was launched this p.m. [afternoon].
Wright arrived with letters to Colonel Scott and President Young from Mt. Pisgah. President Young was gone to the launch, and Dr. Richards visiting the camps. About 7, they walked to President Kimball's. President Young wrote to Colonel Scott to pass over the ordinance this night, having heard that U. S. officers were on their way from Garden Grove for to enlist soldiers for Santa Fe. At 9, Presidents Young, Kimball, O. Pratt, George A. Smith, A. Lyman, W. Richards, Bishop Whitney, John Scott, were in council at post office. Letter was received from W. Woodruff dated June 26, Mt. Pisgah (on file). Read that the United States officers were at Mt. Pisgah to enlist soldiers. Taylor reported that he had commanded all tens to come together. President Young commanded all the Twelve to be at the river tomorrow and cross as quick as possible. Wrote Bishop Miller, by Brother Glines at 10, to cross the river immediately and help Colonel Scott over this night with the heavy wagon, and be ready to help others tomorrow. Council adjourned to the prairie west of the camp and continued in session till 11, then went home determined to go to the river early in the morning.

[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]
[Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Jun 29, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 29 Monday It rained in the morning. I had A talk with Mother Woodruff.
I gathered my cattle And heards & company And bid farewell to my friends in Mount Pisgah And passed through an exeeding bad road & crossed Grand River & travled 5 miles & camped near A creek. The flood Had carried away the bridge And we had to build A new one. Mrs Woodruff was quite sick And I was unwell myself.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Sunday, Jun 28, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Mosquito Creek. [At 1:15] l 1/4 this morning, a severe storm of wind and rain from the west blew down Captain Rockwood's tent and one of J. D. Lee's and others. Morning pleasant. [Morning] a.m. cloudy, wind east. Brother Christman came up from the point and said U. S. officers had arrived to enlist the Mormons to go and take Santa Fe, and if they did not enlist should consider them as enemies and treat them accordingly. [At] 11, Thomas Williams arrived from Mt. Pisgah with mail of 11 letters, one from William Huntington, and reported the artillery within 15 miles. C. P. Lott, Cutler and Cahoon this side Mt. Pisgah. Woodruff, Mt. Pisgah. Great rains there, some bridges gone, others afloat, which would retard the progress of the brethren.
[At 11:30] 11½, meeting organized in the valley near where it was last Sabbath. Presidents Young, Kimball, Hyde, P. Pratt, O. Pratt, Taylor, George A. Smith, W. Richards, and Father Smith, present, and about 300 Saints. President Young addressed the assembly on the situation of the Church, that no new thing has happened to us, others have been persecuted and killed. All things are controlled to the perfecting of the Saints and the overthrow of the wicked. Although an evil deed may bring good, yet a good deed may bring a greater good. If the elders should be scattered instead of going to a place of rest and safety as we have contemplated, they will preach the gospel and gather Israel the quicker. 1 oÂ'clock and 1 min. p.m., President Young closed, and Elder Kimball commenced and addressed the assembly. [He said] that the brethren are better off than at Nauvoo. There, they could not get enough to eat. Here they have plenty.
15 minutes, post master called off letters and referred two years back to entering Nauvoo with the dead bodies of the prophets. Meeting dismissed 20 min. 2 [1:40]. All the brethren to meet for business at 5 p.m. if it rained in the morning. Heavy shower from the west. About 3, Brother Miller came to the post office with Lieutenant Lincoln and Dr. Sanderson. At 4, Father Smith, PresidentYoung, H. C. Kimball, P. Pratt, G. A. Smith, and W. Richards in council at the post office. Read a sketch from the St. Louis New Era, that whipping and driving and threatening were going ahead in Hancock County on the 11th. President Young proposed sending a company from this to the great Bear River Valley without families forthwith. Voted that two men be sent to Mt. Pisgah after men and means to go to the mountains, and that Parley P. Pratt and ... [At 5:30] 5½, adjourned to public meeting to meet again.
After meeting, Taylor, and Hyde, and O. Pratt, were added to the council in general meeting. The sheep owners were called forward by George A. Smith, 15 present, who voted to put their sheep together and herd them to protect them from the wolves. O. Hyde proposed that the different companies form on the different points around, and each company furnish a herdsman. Voted that all the camps within 100 miles come near each other, the north or east limits Captain FlakeÂ's company, and herd their cattle. Moved by President Young that a delegate be sent to every company and command them to come within half mile of the PresidentÂ's. Voted John Taylor be the delegate to notify the companies to come together tomorrow. 21 were volunteered as spades men to prepare to launch the boat. An invitation was given to all to the launch at 2 p.m. tomorrow. All the caulkers are wanted early in the morning. President Young instructed the brethren to enroll themselves in some company and report themselves, and a company will be selected to go over the mountains and put in seed. All that men and hell can invent to hedge up the way of this camp.
Hazen Kimball came today and wanted help because I borrowed a little flour and gave to the poor, so I gave him $l0 to go and load his wagon. I fed his cattle month after month, no thanks. If the brethren didn't send over their teams, they will have to buy grain another year. Let every company and man report Tuesday night. Moved by President Young that we all go over the mountains leaving our families, voted unanimously. Who will volunteer to leave their families and go over the mountains? Two scores voted. If this church is blown to the four winds and never been gathered again, remember I have told you how and when and where to gather too, and if you do not go now, remember I bear my witness in the day of judgment. When God tells a man what to do, he admits of no argument and I want no arguments, and if they will do it, I will warrant them safe. B. Young. [At 7:15] 7 1/4 o'clock meeting dismissed. 8, met council, 12 at post office, except O. Hyde. Conversed on many points relative to the Mountain Mission.

[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Jun 28, 1846. Sunday.

[William Clayton Journal] At daybreak it rained again. We started at 4 o'clock and arrived at Pisgah at 8. Had some conversation with Father [William] Huntington and C[harles] C. Rich. We fed and at 9 started again. We soon saw Brother [Wilford] Woodruff. He was glad to see me. We conversed together some time. From him I learned that Missouri had sent up a committee to Pisgah to search for Forts and Cannon &c. He says the Missourians are terrified and many are moving from the back to the interior settlements. He also stated that we have got a friend in the British parliament and the British had held a private council in relation to the treatment of the U.S. towards us. Britain is making great preparations for war. They have sent 10,000 troops to Canada and a Fleet around Cape Horn to Oregon. They are intending to arm the slaves of the South and have their Agents in the Indian country trying to bring them in war to fight the U.S. After we left Elder Woodruff we passed on and soon met Sister [] Durfee and Brother [Cornelius P.] Lott and his company. He said Diantha was back about [4] miles. Soon after we met Orvile H. Allen and from him learned that Diantha was back at least 12 miles. We continued on and at 2 o'clock fed. We arrived at Father [] Chases between 4 and 5 o'clock. Diantha was very glad to see me and burst into tears. My little boy is far beyond all my expectations. He is very fat and well formed, has got a noble countenance. They are both well and I feel to thank my heavenly father for his mercies to them and Father Chase and family for their kindness to them and may the Lord bless them for it. And O lord bless my family and preserve them forever. Bless my Diantha and my boy and preserve their lives on the earth to bring honor to thy name and give us a prosperous journey back again is the prayer of thy servant William. Amen. At night we had a heavy thunder storm. It rained very heavy. I slept with my dear wife and boy in father C[hase]s wagon . . .

[source: George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]

Mormon History, Jun 28, 1846 (Morning)

[Brigham Young Discourse] President Brigham Young made some remarks of what was on his mind. This is the time it requires the united faith of this church more than any other time to establish this church. We have trials and tribulations to come which we know nothing of, but of all the trials which we have passed through perhaps our hears are not weaned from the things of this world, though perhaps there is some in this church that can say with Paul, to live is for Christ, but to die is gain, and everything that is done is to roll on the work of God. Shall we sin that good may come? No, but do good and good will come, and that will honor the Almighty and us to. But this is the time for us to be faithful in everything. It is nothing but covetousness that shuts up the knowledge of heaven and of God. When I look upon the world, the beauty, the fashion, it is not worth one particle of eternal truth. What is it that makes man happy when they are lead to be martyred? It is the Spirit of God, and all I have to say is for you all to be faithful to your calling and to him who has called you'- President Young arose and remarked about taking in to consideration about keeping our sheep from the wolves. -- Council Bluffs, Iowa [Heber C. Kimball Journals, Special Collections, Merrill-Cazier Library, Utah State University, Logan.; Archives, Church History Library, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Salt Lake City, Utah..]

[The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009)]
[source: The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009)]

Mormon History, Jun 28, 1846

[Brigham Young Sermon] am
I addressed the assembly on the situation of the Church, the gathering of Israel, and the building up of the Kingdom of God.
I said all things are controlled to the perfecting of the Saints, and the overthrow of the wicked, and that although an evil deed may be over-ruled for good, yet a good deed may bring a greater good. Council Bluffs MHBY 200-201 pm
I instructed the newly arrived brethren to report themselves and be enrolled in a company as one would be selected to go over the mountains and put in seed; for I was aware, that all that men and hell could invent to hedge up the way of the camp, would be hatched up.
I moved that we all go over the mountains, leaving our families, which was sustained by unanimous vote.
I asked, who would volunteer to leave their families and go over the mountains. Scores voted.
I said, if the Church is blown to the four winds and never gathered again, remember I have told you how, when and where to gather, and if you do not go now, remember and bear me witness in the day of judgment.
When God tells a man what to do, he admits of no argument, and I want no arguments, and if they will go I will warrant them safety in so doing. Council Bluffs John Taylor Journal; CHC 3:63 pm
Brother Young spoke and said that the companies must prepare teams and grain and implements of husbandry to send over the mountains as the season is so far advanced that there must be something done and that quickly; and as the folks were not willing to let the twelve go ahead any faster than they did, they must send on men and teams to prepare a place and plow and plant to receive us: for if we do not send men ahead it will throw us back another year and we will have to buy another year's provision. He then said he wanted to know how many were willing to go over the mountains and leave their families, and put it to the vote, and several held up their hands: he then said he wanted to know their numbers, for he was determined to go and leave his family if he could get any volunteers to go with him, and leave their families in the care of old men and boys. They would take mules, horses, and swift cattle that could travel thirty miles a day, and take grain and corn along. They then commenced numbering and numbered forty, among whom were the twelve. There were a great many men down who could principally all go, and there were a good many not at meeting. They spoke of the practicability of going this fall. Brother Brigham thought we could do it in thirty-five days. [Council Bluffs - MHBY 199]

[source: Elden J. Watson, ed. Brigham Young Addresses, 1801-1877: A Chronological Compilation of Known Addresses of the Prophet Brigham Young, 6 vols. (Salt Lake City: Privately published, 1971)]

Mormon History, Jun 28, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 28 Sunday I was unwell yet I preached to the Saints on Mount Pisgah. I had An interview with Elder Clayton.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, 28 June 1846 (Morning)

[Brigham Young Discourse] President Brigham Young made some remarks of what was on his mind. This is the time it requires the united faith of this church more than any other time to establish this church. We have trials and tribulations to come which we know nothing of, but of all the trials which we have passed through perhaps our hears are not weaned from the things of this world, though perhaps there is some in this church that can say with Paul, to live is for Christ, but to die is gain, and everything that is done is to roll on the work of God. Shall we sin that good may come? No, but do good and good will come, and that will honor the Almighty and us to. But this is the time for us to be faithful in everything. It is nothing but covetousness that shuts up the knowledge of heaven and of God. When I look upon the world, the beauty, the fashion, it is not worth one particle of eternal truth. What is it that makes man happy when they are lead to be martyred? It is the Spirit of God, and all I have to say is for you all to be faithful to your calling and to him who has called you'- President Young arose and remarked about taking in to consideration about keeping our sheep from the wolves. -- Council Bluffs, Iowa [Heber C. Kimball Journals, Special Collections, Merrill-Cazier Library, Utah State University, Logan.; Archives, Church History Library, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Salt Lake City, Utah..]

[source: The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009)]

Mormon History, 28 June 1846 (Morning)

[Brigham Young Discourse] I addressed the assembly on the situation of the Church, the gathering of Israel, and the building up of the Kingdom of God. I said all things are controlled to the perfecting of the Saints, and the overthrow of the wicked, and that although an evil deed may be over-ruled for good, yet a good deed may bring a greater good. -- Council Bluffs, Iowa [Manuscript History of Brigham Young, 1846- 1847. Elden J. Watson, ed. Salt Lake City: Smith Secretarial Service, 1971.:199]

[source: The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009)]
[The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009)]

Mormon History, 28 June 1846 (Evening)

[Brigham Young Discourse] I instructed the newly arrived brethren to report themselves and be enrolled in a company as one would be selected to go over the mountains and put in seed; for I was aware, that all that men and hell could invent to hedge up the way of the camp, would be hatched up. I moved that we all go over the mountains, leaving our families, which was sustained by unanimous vote. I asked, who would volunteer to leave their families and go over the mountains. Scores voted. I said, if the Church is blown to the four winds and never gathered again, remember I have told you how, when and where to gather, and if you do not go now, remember and bear me witness in the day of judgment. When God tells a man what to do, he admits of no argument, and I want no arguments, and if they will go I will warrant them safety in so doing. -- Council Bluffs, Iowa [Manuscript History of Brigham Young, 1846- 1847. Elden J. Watson, ed. Salt Lake City: Smith Secretarial Service, 1971.:200-201]

[The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009)]

Mormon History, 28 June 1846 (Evening)

[Brigham Young Discourse] Brother Young spoke and said that the companies must prepare teams and grain and implements of husbandry to send over the mountains as the season is so far advanced that there must be something done and that quickly; and as the folks were not willing to let the twelve go ahead any faster than they did, they must send on men and teams to prepare a place and plow and plant to receive us: for if we do not send men ahead it will throw us back another year and we will have to buy another year's provision. He then said he wanted to know how many were willing to go over the mountains and leave their families, and put it to the vote, and several held up their hands: he then said he wanted to know their numbers, for he was determined to go and leave his family if he could get any volunteers to go with him, and leave their families in the care of old men and boys. They would take mules, horses, and swift cattle that could travel thirty miles a day, and take grain and corn along. They then commenced numbering and numbered forty, among whom were the twelve. There were a great many men down who could principally all go, and there were a good many not at meeting. They spoke of the practicability of going this fall. Brother Brigham thought we could do it in thirty-five days. -- Council Bluffs, Iowa [A Comprehensive History of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. B. H. Roberts. Salt Lake City: Deseret News Press, 1930. 3:631]

[source: The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009)]

Mormon History, Saturday, Jun 27, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Mosquito. At 9½ [9:30] a.m., Presidents Young, Kimball, P.P. Pratt, O. Pratt, Taylor, G. A. Smith, Richards, met in a council at post office. President Young related Hyde and Whitney's report of their visit to Mitchell. President Young said if he organized the camp as he pleased, he should form them all in one company to march in divisions, so as to form one square if occasion should require the Twelve, all in the first division. Motioned by George A. Smith and second by John Taylor, that John E. Page be cut off from the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Voted unanimously. P. P. Pratt nominated Joseph Young. O. Pratt nominated C. C. Rich. Young, Richards, and Kimball, E. T. Benson voted to have a general council on the morrow, and the brethren be instructed to form a general encampment. Council adjourned 12½ [12:30]. Presidents Young and Kimball rode out on the prairie.

[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Jun 27, 1846. Saturday.

[William Clayton Journal] The day was fine and we traveled about 38 miles and camped on the prairie about 8 miles from Pisgah. During the day we passed some United States officers on their way to see President Young and the Council. We afterwards learned that they profess to be going to the authorities of the church by order of the president of the U.S. to raise 500 volunteer Mormons to defend Santa Fe, but the feeling amongst the brethren is that they are spies sent to learn our movements and watch us. It is evident the U.S. are afraid of us and perhaps the serpent will send a flood after us but the earth will help us.

[source: George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]

Mormon History, Jun 27, 1846

Elder John E. Page is excommunicated from the LDS church for encouraging members to follow James Strang.

[source: Wikipedia, 19th Century (Mormonism), http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/19th_century_(Mormonism)]

Mormon History, Jun 27, 1846

Motioned by Geo A. Smith & 2d by John Taylor that John E. Page be cut off from the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles voted unanimously. P. P. Pratt nominated Joseph Young O. Pratt [nominated] C. C. Rich'Young Richards, & Kimball [nominated E.T. Benson'voted to have a gen Council on the morrow. [Willard Richards, Diary]

[Minutes of the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1835-1893]

Mormon History, Jun 27, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 27th I spent the day in preparing to leave on Monday. Nearly all of the camp are sick. Father And Mother Are quite sick Also Sister King & Sarah And several of the men. I recieved A letter from Br Young. I wrote him one & sent him a messenger before the troops.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Jun 26, 1846. Friday.

[William Clayton Journal] Did not start till after seven. Morning fair roads bad. After traveling about 6 miles we found Horace Clark and other camped on the ]one] side of a small stream and Orson Spencer on the other side. The creek was full of water to the bank and in the deepest place about 6 feet over the bridge and part of the bridge washed away. We tarried until 3 o'clock and then concluded to try to get over. Walter L. Davis, and W[illiam] D. Huntington and others volunteered to help us over. We unloaded [] the wagon box off and made use of the box for a boat, taking a few of our things over at a time. When we had got them all over we swam the horses over loaded up, and at 5 o'clock started again and went till near 9 having traveled about 16 miles.

[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]

Mormon History, Jun 26, 1846 (Friday)

Capt. James Allen, of the U.S. army, arrived at Mount Pisgah and had an interview with Apostle Wilford Woodruff and Pres. Wm. Huntington and council. He was the bearer of a circular to the "Mormons," making a requisition on the camps of the Saints for four or five companies of men, to serve as volunteers in the war with Mexico. Capt. Allen was advised to visit the authorities of the Church at Council Bluffs.

[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]
[source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

Mormon History, Jun 26, 1846

[Nauvoo Temple] The Trustees wrote Brigham Young that Trustees Babbitt and Heywood had started for St. Louis to seek buyers for the temple. A Mr. Paulding was interested in the building, but he was in New Orleans and a deal could not be closed for five to six weeks.

[source: Brown, Lisle (compiler), Chronology of the Construction, Destruction and Reconstruction of the Nauvoo Temple]

Mormon History, Jun 26, 1846

[Mormon Battalion] Colonel Kearny designated Captain James Allen, later promoted to Lieutenant Colonel, to raise five companies of volunteer soldiers from the able-bodied men between the ages of eighteen and forty-five in the Mormon encampments in Iowa. On 26 June 1846 Allen arrived at the encampment of Mt. Pisgah. He was treated with suspicion as many believed that the raising of a battalion was a plot to bring trouble to the migrating Saints.

[source: Utah History Encyclopedia: Mormon Battalion, http://www.media.utah.edu/UHE/m/MORMONBATTALION.html]

Mormon History, Jun 26, 1846

[Mormon Battalion] With the United States embroiled in a war against Mexico, Capt. James Allen arrives at the LDS encampment at Mount Pigsah, Iowa, commanding a U.S. Army recruiting detachment sent from Fort Leavenworth in Kansas.
Allen's orders are to enlist 500 Mormon volunteers for 12 months to help secure U.S. claims in California. Volunteers are promised that, in addition to their regular wages, they may keep their Army guns, gear and other supplies at the end of their enlistment.

[source: Mormon Battalion Timeline, Herald Extra, March 25, 2010]

Mormon History, Jun 26, 1846

John Edward Page: Excommunicated 26 June 1846.

[source: Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith]

Mormon History, Jun 26, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 26th The Camp was flung into some excitement this morning by the appearance of capt J. Allen with 3 draggoons of the U S Armey. I soon met Br Huntington & His Council with Capt Allen to enquire into his business. And He informed us He was sent by order of Capt Carney who had recieved word so He said By President Polk to give the Mormons an invitation to raise 500 volunteers to Assist the USA in the Mexican war. This was his pretentions. I Had some reasons to believe them to be spies & that the president Had no Hand in it. We however treated them with civility & directed them on to Council Bluffs to lay the case before the President.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Friday, Jun 26, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Mosquito. Clear and pleasant. Some little flying clouds. Wind northwest. Council, B. Young, H. C. Kimball, O. Hyde, P. P. Pratt, O. Pratt, John Taylor, George A. Smith, A. Lyman, W. Richards, N. K. Whitney, A. P. Rockwood, John Smith, George Grant, Levi Richards, assembled in council on the prairie north of headquarters at 11 a.m. Conversed about MitchellÂ's writing to Fort Kearney for troops to take the Mormon leaders and drive off the leaders, as related by Sarpee to President Young yesterday. Voted that O. Hyde and N. K. Whitney go to Major Mitchell and inquire if he has written to Fort Kearney for troops, and if so, learn the cause and get him to write a letter to counteract his former letter. Council adjourned to Major HuntÂ's camp two miles north where they dined, except Hyde and Whitney who had leave to retire and visit Major Mitchell.
After dinner Major Hunt went with the council to headquarters where they separated, and Presidents Young, P. P. Pratt, Kimball, and George A. Smith went to the boat, when Elders Hyde and Whitney came to them and informed them that Major Mitchell said he had written no letter to Fort Kearney except one he wrote some two months ago about Emmett's company; that since his acquaintance with the Mormons his feelings had materially changed, that he had found them gentlemen, and wished them well and would do all in his power to do them good; that he would write to Fort Kearney if the committee wished it, but it was of no use as the officers had taken no notice of his letters, and the officers wanted the Mormons to go forward to their destination.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Thursday, Jun 25, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Mosquito. Cloudy and foggy. A shower from 10 to 11 a.m. Occasional showers till 2 p.m., when the clouds began to break, and so continued till about 5 when it commenced raining and continued till dark. About [afternoon] p.m., President Young rode to the point in company with Charles Birch. Mr. Sarpee told President Young that Major Mitchell had written to Colonel at Fort Kearney that the Mormons were conniving with the Indians, had committed some depredations at Pottawattamie [Pottawatamie] town, and wanted the dragoons to come up and keep the peace and prevent their uniting with the Indians to fight the United States. Dr. Richards spent the [afternoon] p.m. with his brother Levi and returned at dark, just after President Young returned from the point through mud, and spent the evening at the post office in conversation about Joseph in Carthage Jail two years ago, etc., etc.

[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Jun 25, 1846. Thursday.

[William Clayton Journal] This morning arose at 4 o'clock and moved our wagon a little to fresh grass to let the horses feed they being tied to it. It is fair but cloudy. We started again at half past 5 and traveled till 12 then rested till 2 and then traveled till dark making 31 miles. We camped just beyond the Indian village in the midst of a severe thunder storm. It rained most of the day and the roads were bad.

[source: George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]

Mormon History, Jun 25, 1846 (Thursday)

The ship Brooklyn arrived at Honolulu, Hawaii, on its way to California.

[Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

Mormon History, Thursday, Jun 25, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Mosquito. Cloudy and foggy. A shower from 10 to 11 a.m. Occasional showers till 2 p.m., when the clouds began to break, and so continued till about 5 when it commenced raining and continued till dark. About [afternoon] p.m., President Young rode to the point in company with Charles Birch. Mr. Sarpee told President Young that Major Mitchell had written to Colonel at Fort Kearney that the Mormons were conniving with the Indians, had committed some depredations at Pottawattamie [Pottawatamie] town, and wanted the dragoons to come up and keep the peace and prevent their uniting with the Indians to fight the United States. Dr. Richards spent the [afternoon] p.m. with his brother Levi and returned at dark, just after President Young returned from the point through mud, and spent the evening at the post office in conversation about Joseph in Carthage Jail two years ago, etc., etc.

[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Jun 25, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 25 It continued to rain through the day. But little business done.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Jun 24, 1846. Wednesday.

[William Clayton Journal] The morning wet and cold. I went over to President Young and told him where I was going and what for. He said he would get the cattle for me. I also spoke to Heber [Kimball] and he said: "Go and prosper." At 11 I went to council and President Young, [Heber] Kimball and [John] Taylor concluded also to go to Pisgah after the cannon. I started at 2 o'clock it then being fair. At 5 o'clock I passed Father [] Knowlton's company 13 miles from camp and at 7 passed the LaHarpe company and inquired of Brother [] Burgham and [] Freeman about Diantha but could not learn much from them . . .

[source: George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]

Mormon History, Wednesday, Jun 24, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Missouri River. Cloudy and rain occasionally through the day. Presidents Young, Kimball, Taylor, and others spent much of the time in the post office hearing, reading, and talking on various subjects.

[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Jun 24, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 24th The wind has blown vary hard & cold from the east for two days. It commenced raining Hard last night like a winter storm. Has rained Hard through the day.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Jun 23, 1846. Tuesday.

[William Clayton Journal] This morning I got my food ready to start after Diantha but Vilate Ruth seemed quite sick and I concluded not to start. We took the teams and went to the village to pick gooseberries but it rained near all the time we were gone. I bought a Scythe and some other things and tried to trade a watch for a yoke of cattle. Major [] Mitchel offered me 3 yoke for the Gold watch. We got home about 3:00 o'clock. I then went and told the president about Mitchel's offer and he told me to sell it. It was so cold and wet and windy we went to bed early and soon after we got to bed Heber [Kimball] and Doctor Richards came to my wagon with two letters from Diantha one dated Nauvoo May 17, 1846 the other Big Prairie, June 18. She tells that she is sent on by her father and is with Lorin and is very anxious I should bring her or send for her. I made up my mind to start tomorrow. The night was very stormy with strong winds and heavy rains.

[source: George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]

Mormon History, Tuesday, Jun 23, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] East wind. President Young read a letter to Dr. Bernhisel and signed it. Also, wrote to a few in Nauvoo. Dr. R. [Richards?] wrote to trustees and Stephen Longstroth, sent by Ezra Bickford, who left about 11. a.m. Rain had commenced with strong wind from the east. At 12, Presidents Young, Kimball, and Taylor, at the post office reading newspapers. [In the afternoon] p.m., heavy gale of wind. Two of President Young's tents blew down. At 3, President Young sent Stirling DavisÂ' ponies to him in care of the Presidency at Mt Pisgah, by Orrin Packard and William Fellows. 5 p.m., John F. Green arrived from Mt. Pisgah with Nauvoo mail, 46 letters and packages of papers. Father Smith called at the post office, had an interview with President Young and A. Lyman. Went to Elder Taylor's encampment. Wind continued.

[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Jun 23, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 23d I Had my tire cut & shot of my waggons to day. I met with the Saints according to appointment. A letter was written to report to the president what we had done in raising the mounted men.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]

Mormon History, Jun 22, 1846. Monday.

[William Clayton Journal] Fixing my wagons. The day was windy and cold. I was informed yesterday that Diantha is twenty miles back from Mount Pisgah with her father still further back. They have sent her chest on to Pisgah and she is with Lorin [Farr]. I partly made up my mind to start in the morning and fetch her.

[George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]

Mormon History, Jun 22, 1846 (Monday)

At this date about five hundred wagons had arrived on the Missouri river; nine of the Apostles were already there.

Mormon History, Monday, Jun 22, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Mosquito. Council wrote William Huntington and council to send on the tents, also the general news of the day by Solomon Chamberlain, also to Brother Woodruff to come on. President Young rode in his carriage to Mr. Wick's at the saw mill, calling by the way at Brother Van CottÂ's and taking with him Drs. Levi and Willard Richards and Joseph Scofield to drive. Purchased boards, returned home by the prairie or flats of the river, took tea at Brother Van CottÂ's, and arrived home about sunset. President Young spent the evening in the post office, and Dr. Richards wrote to Dr. Bernhisel. Closed at 12. Strong east wind all day. Martha, wife of Seely Reaves, was delivered of a son James Seely, 12½ [12:30] p.m. Reported by M. [Patty?] Sessions.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Jun 22, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 22d I laboured Hard all day to get some Black-smithing done. At night I met the people to raise the 100 volunteer of mounted men. I addressed them (filled with the spirit of God) on the importance of complying with the request made & of assisting the Twelve & those associated with them to go to the Mountains & lift up the standard of Zion. I then Called for volunteers & about 60 followed me out in the line. We appointed the next evening to meet again.

[source: Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]