Mormon History, Aug 28, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 28th Met in Council this morning with theOmaho's Chiefs & braves. We smoked the pipe ofpeace And then President Young spoke to them through there interpeter whose name was [ ] Informing them It was our desire to winter here And if they wished we would do some work for them make them a field & fix there guns &c. And many things were said which I Cannot now name.
And the big Elk replyed My Son thou hast spoken well. I have all thou hast Said in my heart. I have much I want to say. We are poor. When we go to hunt game in one place we meet an enemy & so in another place. Our enemies kill us. We do not kill them. I hope we will be friends. You may stay on these lands two years or more. Our young men may watch your cattle. We would be glad to have you trade with us. We will warn you of danger from other Indians &c. Many other things were said. The Council closed. The Indians were fed & returned home.

[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, Thursday, Aug 27, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Cold Spring Ferry, 4 miles. Brothers Bird and Davis were at the spring. Had been after an interpreter to meet the Omaha and "Mormon" chiefs in council. Left Cold Spring about 9 and arrived at camp at noon, being 2 hours, 45 minutes travel, stopping near 30 minutes in a grove by the way. Found Brother James Pace from the army saying Colonel Allen was dead and bringing letters.
At 1 p.m., council met at Samuel RussellÂ's tent. Present: Presidents Young, Kimball, O. Pratt, Woodruff, Richards, and high council. It was their meeting. Voted that the foreman of each division give notice that all dogs be tied outside of the yards from sunset to sunrise. O. Pratt read a letter from Samuel Gully, Fort Leavenworth, August 21, 1846. One from Dr. G. B. Sanderson, 22 August, one from A. S. Smith, 23 August, one from Samuel Gully of the 23 August, 1846, concerning the death of Lieutenant Colonel J. Allen. Lieutenant Pace said Lieutenant Allen and Dr. Sanderson tried to prevent our sending back to the camp. Major Horton said it was the privilege of the Battalion to do as they had a mind to, the business was in their own hands, that he had given instructions to Lieutenant Smith and Dr. Sanderson to do all the good you can.
The question had arisen who should command the Mormon Battalion. President Young said the right belongs to Captain Hunt, and he moved that he have his right. Elder Kimball and others seconded it, and that a letter be written to Lieutenant Allen and Dr. Sanderson and General Kearney and Captain Hunt.
Lorenzo Young said he called on Colonel Scott and he said he had no church oxen in his company. Colonel Rockwood and President Young said several teams were given up to Colonel Scott at Pleasant Point. After considerable conversation about Colonel AllenÂ's papers, said by Lieutenant Pace to be in the hand of Lieutenant Smith, etc., etc., the subject of old oxen was introduced. Lorenzo Young said it had been proposed that all old oxen be gathered and fattened and butchered as wanted, and be distributed, giving the hide and tallow to the owner and meat as he wanted, and thus save all the young cattle. President Young said the council could recommend to the brethren to fat their old cattle, have help to take care of them, etc., and have men appointed to buy the old cattle in camp, butcher and beef, and sell to the camp, and send to St. Louis by Bishop Whitney to see what he can get for the hide next spring delivered at the Point, or Subaguay, of the Pottawattamies [Pottawatamies].
Voted on motion of President Young that the council appoint a committee to appraise and take charge of all cattle in camp, which individuals may wish to dispose of for beef or to exchange, and that the committee fatten and kill said old cattle, pay the individuals thus putting in cattle in other cattle or beef or other things as the owners may want, and the committee can supply all at the order of the council. Voted that Lorenzo Young, Alpheus Cutler, and Cornelius P. Lott be said beef committee.
President YoungÂ's motion concerning the Battalion carried. [At] 5½ [5:30], council was informed that the Omaha chiefs had arrived and voted to adjourn till tomorrow morning 8 ½ [8:30 a.m.] at headquarters.
About quarter before 8, council assembled at Captain RockwoodÂ's tent. Present: Presidents Young, Kimball, O. Pratt, W. Woodruff, Richards, A. Lyman, Bishop Whitney, J. D. Lee, A. P. Rockwood. After conversation on various subjects and O. PrattÂ's taking a memorandum of some things wanted of the Omaha chiefs, council retired about 9½ [9:30] and Dr. Richards continued writing letters till quarter past 2 a.m.

[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Aug 27, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 27th I met in council with the Twelve High Council with two tribes of Indians. First with the Otoes. The object of the council was to get the privilege of staying on the land this season & to use wood grass & water for two or three years or as long as we would wish while gathering to the Mountains And there seemed to be a dispute between the two tribes who owned the land. The Otoes said the land was theirs. We conversed some with there cheif And he went home. The Chief with 5 or 6 others were present.
We then all met in council with the Omahas. The old Chief name was big Elk. His son was A young Chief called Young Elk. There were also present about 60 old men and Braves. As it was late we adjourned the Council untill tomorrow morning.
We met in Council among ourselves & done business. Among other things appointed 3 men to buy up the Cattle & sell beef which was Lorenzo Young C. P Lott & A. Cutler.

[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, Aug 26, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Council Point. Messenger arrived from SpencerÂ's camp saying he was sick and wanted to see the brethren. Brothers Young, Kimball, and Porter went to see him. Dr. Richards stayed to do business with Hale and Brother Flake, and those with him returned across the river to notify Logan Fontelle, the Indian interpreter, to visit the camp and return home about 9. Samuel Lance took all his money coming from the army $25, and said that Mary Lance, his wife, would not give her consent to let it remain with the Church.
Brothers Young and Kimball and Porter returned from Daniel SpencerÂ's about 3 and reported him sick, but getting better, and soon after started for home. Passed the river about sunset, arrived at the Cold Spring past 8. Stayed with Sister Gheen, Brother Erastus Snow, etc. Cool night. All the business of the committee and Battalion was left with Evan M. Green.

[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Aug 26, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 26th Rode to the Mo River & crossed the ferry. Two of the Omahas were with us to the cold spring. Shot there steel pointed arrows to divert us. We dined at Peter Haws on the way. At the Cold Springs I saw Br E Snow & several families.
From there we rode to the Camp of Israel. On the way we were in sight of the Omahas village or lodges which was quite A pleasant sight. We carried home to our families some vegitables. I found the camp on my return much improved in there health.
I also found an evil in the camp. A man by the name of Daniel (or John) Barnum not A member of the Church but A wicked man had joined with other young men And was spending there time nights in fiddleing & dancing And afterwards leading away young women into folley evil & wickedness. And Among others I found that Caroline Barton & Sarah Brown had been lead away by him & been with them At late hours of the night. As they were members of my family I forbid there going out any more with them on penalty of leaving my house. But they still continued to go out. 30 m.

[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, Aug 25, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Pottawattamie [Pottawatamie] Nation, Perkin Encampment. Cool, pleasant morning. While the presidents were dressing in their wagons about quarter to 8, a boy snapped one of the doctorÂ's pistols in the home and it discharged through the roof. After breakfast and laying hands on Brother Andrew H. Perkins, two or three more, and blessing two or three children. About 11, the brethren started for the liberty pole, [on the] bluff. Met Harmon Cutler near ParleyÂ's Spring and paid him $40 for Elizabeth Pettigrew. Harmon said had committed her to send to St. Louis for all she wanted, etc.
Arrived [at] the liberty pole about 3, dined with Brother Wooley. Dr. Richards visited Jane Richards, wife of Franklin D., found her very sick. About 5, left for Council Point where they arrived about 6. Found Brother Charles Kennedy on his way to Nauvoo. Council wrote to trustees. Dr. Richards wrote to Lucinda Callahan and John Rushton. Brother Kennedy said the Omahas had returned from their hunt, that Colonel Rockwood, J. M. Grant, and Brother Bird had been to see them. They were friendly and wanted a council, and Thursday had been proposed as the time.

[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Aug 25, 1846

[Nauvoo Temple] Brigham Young sent word to the Temple Trustees not to sell the Temple for less than $100,000.

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

Mormon History, Aug 25, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 25th Tuesday We rode to redemption Hill. From thence to council Point & spent the night. Many that were sick upon whom we had lade our hands were better. We lade hands upon 20 that were sick. 12 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, Monday, Aug 24, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Council Point. Pleasant morning. Doctor [Richards] had a fine rest at Ira OviatÂ's, and was called up by Pearis Raymond who took $20 for wife of A.P. Raymond, who was present, and wanted all her money. Was capable of taking care of herself. Elizabeth Pettigrew wanted 40 dollars, would take care of herself, but the money was sent to Harmon Cutler who was not present to receipt it, but had counseled her to take all her money.
Dr. Richards wrote to William Kay, Stephen Longstroth, and Thomas Bullock, and postmaster at Nauvoo for letters. At 12, rode with Brother Flake and A. Lyman to Henry MillerÂ's where he found Presidents Young, Kimball, O. Pratt, W. Woodruff, and George A. Smith, eating green corn, cucumbers, suckertosh, etc. After dinner, all ate freely of water and muskmelons. About 3, the company left, taking the remainder of a load of melons for the sick, and arrived at the liberty pole. Visited Brother Hunter Wooley and P. Richards. Distributed melons to doctor. Saw Jane Richards who was sick.
About 4 ½ [4:30], company started to find Daniel SpencerÂ's company. Crossed Mosquito Creek at the Cold Spring north bridge onto the prairie. Could find no road to SpencerÂ's. Traveled north for PerkinÂ's company, missed their way. Agreed to buy a sheep for supper. Passed a deep ravine, ascended a hill, traveled on till about 7 ½ [7:30]. Found Brother Perkins sick at the camp in a small grove near a beautiful, cold, spring. Supped. Lodged in Brother Horace PackÂ's new log house in one bed, except Young and Kimball in a wagon nearby. Thundershower in the night.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Aug 24, 1846. Monday.

[William Clayton Journal] Reading some and fixing a little at my violin. Feel very little better but have a better appetite . . .

[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, Aug 24, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 24th Rode 5 miles to Henry Millers. There were Present 7 of the Twelve Young, Kimball, O. Pratt Richards W. Woodruff G. A. Smith & Lyman. We had a great feast of Melons, corn & vegatables After which we rode to redemption Hill & crossed Musketoe Creek on to Perkins Camp over Hills & dales & spent the night. 2[0?].

[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[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, Sunday, Aug 23, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Pottawattamie [Pottawatamie] Nations, Council Point. At 10 a.m., the people began to assemble under a bower about 20 by 40 in the rear of father MorleyÂ's wagons. Prayer by O. Pratt, 3 minutes before 12. President Young arose to explain the object of the meeting, to tell of our location on the other side of the river and our arrangements for living. We are in two companies, about 600 wagons. We gave all the brethren the privilege of living by themselves and tending their own herds, but if they got into difficulties they must not call on us for help, etc. We shall adopt the law of liberty, and all who live up to it will enjoy all the liberty they can ask for, not infringing on the rights of others.
The principal object of our coming over was to induce the people here to unite with us in the principles of self preservation, which includes all business matters of our present salvation or preservation. It is the invisible hand of the Almighty that is favoring Israel through the army, and I shall tell you what I want to do and what I shall do, God and my brethren being my helpers, and I will tell the people here what to do with the means received. And if they do it not, we shall be released from our obligations to look after them.
There are no people under heaven we are acquainted with who would have gone into their army as we have done. The Twelve, bishops and council here will get the privilege of making your funds go the furtherest possible, and the privilege of waiting on you till we get you where you want to go. I will warrant you two to one through council, for your means, to what you would to have it in your own hands.
[At] 7 minutes to 1 p.m., President Kimball spoke on the principal importance of following counsel, and that all the funds received from the army belongs to the disposition of the Twelve and the council here, and not to the individuals to dispose of. [At] 15 minutes past 1, G. A. Smith spoke in confirmation of previous speakers, and 20 minutes past 1, A. Lyman spoke about confidence in the Twelve, etc. [At] 12.30 minutes [should be 1:30?], P. Pratt spoke. Did not think that letting the sisters have their money would not release us from our obligation to see them across the mountains. [At] 37 minutes past 1, W. Woodruff spoke and made a motion that all persons that feel willing to have the money sent from the Battalion be spent by Bishop Whitney for the purchase of goods, and moved that the funds received from the army be appropriated according to the order of the councils through Bishop Whitney or the committee appointed by the Battalion, for the purchase of goods, provisions etc., as shall be most needed by the camp.
President Young said he despised the idea of attempting to prove the Twelve honest men, as he did the gates of hell. Let the man come, if he can, who can better the plans that have been laid by myself. Moved by President Young that the funds in the camp on the east side of the river for the purchase of dry goods, groceries, hardware, provisions, etc., this fall, be appropriated by the order of the high council to a general purchase through Bishop Whitney. The funds to be raised by Jonathan H. Hale and Daniel Spencer. Carried almost universally, no one dissenting.
While the high council retired a few moments, O. Pratt read the list of letters remaining in the post office at Nauvoo, that they might be sent for on the morrow. Dr. Richards called over the letters in the post office and gave instruction to the high council and bishops how to manage in taking a bill of goods and wanted by individuals at St. Louis. Meeting closed about [?]. The Presidency and suite rode on to the bluff, all except Dr. Richards who spent the afternoon in paying small sums to 15, mostly sisters, to give them immediate relief. William Camp took all his to the amount of $20, and received a lecture from the doctor, with the promise that it should be recorded as history that he would not leave his money to send with the brethren. Jonathan Browning was to receive the money from the camp, and was present, but made no offer to let the money remain.

[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Aug 23, 1846 (Sunday)

Col. James Allen, commander of the Mormon Battalion, died at Ft. Leavenworth. The command then devolved on Capt. Jefferson Hunt, as the ranking officer, but notwithstanding this, Lieut. A. J. Smith shortly after assumed the command.

[source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

Mormon History, Aug 23, 1846

[Mormon Battalion] Capt. John Allen dies at Fort Leavenworth. Overriding Allen's prior agreement with Brigham Young that the battalion's own officers would assume command in the event of his death, the Army appoints Lt. A.J. Smith, not a Latter-day Saint and destined to become unpopular among the men of the battalion, to be the unit's acting commander.

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

Mormon History, Aug 23, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 23d Sunday Aug 23 I met in Council with the 12 And A congregations of Saints at council point to meet with the Church for the purpose of giving council to the Saints about sending the money recieved from the Army And all other funds in the hands of the Saints to St Lewis to buy goods & Clothing for to fit themselves out for the journey in the spring. President Young spoke first And was followed by Elders Kimball Smith Lyman, O. Pratt & W Woodruff & at-last Moved that the monies be Appropriated according to Council in bying goods clothing &c.
We had A lengthy meeting After which we lade hands upon many that were sick And rode to Redemption Hill and spent the night. 6 m.

[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, Aug 22, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Near CutlerÂ's Park. Pleasant. About 1 p.m. Presidents Young, Kimball, Richards, O. P. Rockwell, Emeline Free and William Kimball in Brother KimballÂ's carriage, and Presidents O. Pratt, W. Woodruff, G. A. Smith, A. Lyman and Brother Flake in Brother FlakeÂ's carriage, started for Council Point. Arrived at Cold Spring 35 minutes past 4. Crossed the river about 6, and arrived at Father Morley's, at Council Point, about 8. After supper chatted till about 11 and retired. Saw Brother Griffin at the ferry. He had concluded to not to go to Fort Leavenworth. O. Pratt and W. Richards lodged with Joseph L. Robinson and breakfasted with him and President Young.

[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Aug 22, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 22d In company with the quorum of the Twelve I rode to the Mo river. Crossed the ferry & on to Council point whare there was an encampment of 40 or 50 waggons. We found many sick. I spent the night with G A. Smith & J H. Hales & Br Harris. Distance of the day 30 rail.

[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, Aug 21, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] CutlerÂ's Park. Between 12 and 2 a.m., Dr. Richards made up a mail of 45 letters for the Mormon Battalion and was called up about 8 a.m. to close the Fort Leavenworth mail of 60 letters. President Young called and signed a letter of counsel to J. Hunt, etc. (on file). Mail delivered to Brother Griffin who went to the ferry with Father Morley, Brothers Hale and Richards, who started on return about 9 a.m. At 11, Dr. Richards called on Colonel Kane, found him better, conversed with him about hiring the Indians, etc., and writing to the President. He concurred and desired to be present, and present the subject to the President.
Went to Bishop WhitneyÂ's tent, found President Young at rest on the carpet. Dined with Brother Kimball, after which Henry G. Sherwood came on return from Farmington with his family, and [at] about 3 returned home with President Young and the doctor. Pleasant but cool. [At] 3, visited Sister Dykes and a sick brother, p.m. [in the afternoon], with President. About 4, rode to C. P. LottÂ's. Postmaster was engaged in regulating the post office, etc. Ten letters for Council Point, 10 Pawnee, 20 [the] States, 90 unknown, total 130. [At] quarter to 9, President Young, O. Pratt, W. Woodruff, George A. Smith came into the post office and read a letter from C. C. Rich, 17th instant, giving an account of the death of Samuel Bent at Garden Grove and the sickness of William Huntington. Mr. Gray, a missionary, brought the letter. President Young supped at C. P. LottÂ's.
Council wrote to the high and municipal council, respecting them to take such measures as wisdom directs to prevent the too frequent repetition of evening parties and dances, injurious to health and the quietness of the sick, and that they give notice next Sabbath. Examined the list and found the brethren, ie., individuals in the Mormon Battalion, had sent $15 to President Young and $33 to H. C. Kimball, $15 to G. A. Smith, $50 to Amasa Lyman, and to the Council of the Twelve, poor, etc., $420. Total $533. Adjourned at 10. Cool evening.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Aug 21, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 21st I wrote 3 letters one to J. Ferguson one to J A. Stratton one to J Armstrong.

[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, Thursday, Aug 20, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Cutler's Park. Cloudy. Cold north wind. About 9 a.m., council assembled at President YoungÂ's tent, Presidents Young, Kimball, W. Woodruff, O. Pratt, Richards, George A. Smith, A. Lyman, W. Woodruff, and Isaac Morley, J. H. Hale, and P. Richards of the council, east side of the river. Bishop Whitney, Father John Smith. Several letters were read and sorted. Joseph L. Robinson had returned from Nauvoo and presented the offer of William Meeks and Sons of Bonaparte to furnish flour from $2.75 or $2.50 per barrel, or l.12½ to 1.00 per cwt. Also offer of A. P. Houghton of Farmington, $2.50 per barrel, 1.25 per cwt to the Mormons.
President Young stated that if a man was willing to let his property, should be disposed of anyway as the Lord would, the Lord was willing he should be made a bishop, and why not as well as to put his funds into anotherÂ's hands. [At] quarter to 11, letter was read from Council Point, August 18, 1846, I. Morley, president, E. M. Green, clerk. Fifty or more on that side the river wanted a part or all of their money. President Young said we took those families into our charge as we take charge of our own families, and [should] not be their servants. Heber Kimball motioned, seconded by W. Richards and O. Pratt, that the money be disposed of as this council direct. Carried.
President Young motioned that the council on the other side and on this side of the river, see to the wants of individuals, and have no one suffer, but supply those who must have, or need immediate help from their funds, carried. President Young proposed that we hire some of the Omaha Indians to watch our cattle this winter. Also, that if some of our boys could be sent to Pottawattamie [Pottawatamie] town to live this winter, they would learn their Indian language, and if the Omahas will guard our cattle, we will make them a cornfield, and learn them to work, etc., for our staying on their lands.
Chandler Rogers has been appointed councillor at Council Point instead of Thomas Grover, who had moved [to] west side of the river. President Young said he was going to propose to the various councils of this Church, to have some way devised to instruct this people concerning the organization of the human system and how to take care of it.
The Sioux people told Emmet the government of the United States had agreed to furnish them with mechanics, farmers, etc., for a certain number of years, but had never done it, and they would give him a great tract of land if he would stay and settle among them. Voted that it is wisdom to sow wheat on the east side the river on Potawattamie [Pottawatamie] lands. Voted that the subject of employing the Omaha Indians to herd our cattle be referred to the high council of this place. Proposed by President Young that the committee agitate the subject with the chiefs and half breeds and see what can be done, if a chief will select a company to watch our cattle, etc. Adjourned at 25 minutes past 12 for one hour. The marshall to notify the high council to meet with us.
[At] 2 p.m., the council met as in the morning with the high council. Burrier Griffin arrived with a letter from George Miller, eight miles above Pawnee Village, Augus 13, 1846, which was read. Voted that $20 from L. H. McCollough be sent to St. Louis to purchase such things as she needs. Voted the three councils present be resolved into one this p.m. [afternoon]. Voted that the proceedings of the morning council be read. Letter from the council at Council Point to the Presidency. Letter from the Twelve Apostles to the council at Council Point read and sanctioned by vote. Voted that the report of the council from Council Point be accepted and sanctioned by us. Presidents Young, Kimball, Richards, Woodruff, George A. Smith, O. Pratt, A. Lyman, and John Smith severally nominate themselves to go to Council Point and complete the business concerning the Battalion money. Voted. Letter was read from Isaac Bartholomew to Mr. Miller to say that the bad money paid [by] him he received for wheat in Michigan, and supposed it good, and sent him good money to redeem it by Brother Griffin. Council voted they were satisfied with BartholomewÂ's explanation, and signified the same in the letter, signed W. Richards, clerk.
Brother Ira Eldridge thought the arrangements were completed for the purchase of millstones and fixtures, and the parties were ready to draw writings. Brother Matthews brought a mail of 27 letters from Fort Leavenworth. Moved by W. Richards and voted that this council write the President of the United States immediately, informing him of the desire of the Indians to receive instructions in education, mechanic arts, agriculture, etc., and our facilities for giving them the desired information and employing them in our labors, and that thereby we might secure to the United States a favorable influence among the red men while necessity compels us to stay among them, and ask the PresidentÂ's views and approval of the proposed measures.
Thomas Matthews reported that companies C and D at Fort Leavenworth wished that someone might follow them to bring back their money when they received their next payment, and wanted their families to be taken on. Voted that two men be sent to the Mormon Battalion and bring back their first payment. Voted that Dr. Richards write a letter to the Battalion instructing them what to do with their money. Brother Joseph Matthews stated that when the Mormon Battalion was in camp 15 miles north of Fort Leavenworth, a terrible storm arose of wind and rains and prostrated the forest all around, but did no harm within 50 yards. They called the place Mormon Battalion Creek. Brother Matthews said wheat could be bought for 18 3/4, 20, and 25 cents per bushel. Voted that a man be sent to Missouri with $1000 to buy wheat.
Several motions were made to establish a mail to Nauvoo and Fort Leavenworth, but after discussion, President Young proposed to bring the subject before the people and say whether they want a mail. Adjourned at 6 p.m. High council met at 7. President Young spent a part of the evening in the marquee.[?] At 9, waked to Brother KimballÂ's company with J. H. Hale. At 10, called at the post office and heard part of a letter written by Dr. Richards for council to J. Hunt and Mormon Battalion. Cold night.

[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Aug 20, 1846

Message to the Mormon Battalion-- For additional background for this Message and the preceding one see: CHC 3:60-121.
A MESSAGE from President Brigham Young To the Battalion Members Camp of Israel, Cutler's Park, Omaha nation, Aug. 20, 1846. Capt. JEFFERSON HUNT and the Captains Officers and soldiers of the Mormon battalion.
Beloved brethren:-Several letters were this day received by Joseph Matthews who has just returned from Fort Leavenworth. The Council of the Twelve and High Councils of Cutler's Park and Council Point were in joint session on his arrival, and we were cheered with his report of your excellent outfit, and the good feelings which appear to prevail at the Fort, and among the officers and soldiers of the Battalion.
Bro. Matthews expressed your feelings and wishes, concerning your families and that you desire your families to be brought forward with the camp. This is all right, and nothing shall be wanting on our part to accomplish this desirable object.
We consider the money you have received, as compensation for your clothing, a peculiar manifestation of the kind providence of our Heavenly Father at this particular time, which is just the time for the purchase of provisions and goods for the enter supply of the camp. After hearing your views concerning the remittance of future payments, from Bro. Matthews, and Bro. Dykes' letter of the 15th inst., we consider it wisdom for you to retain the funds which you may hereafter receive, until you can bring them yourselves, or deliver them to our Agents; for if circumstances permit, and it is wisdom we shall send one or two brethren to receive your remittances; whom you will know by their credentials; otherwise you will retain them till further instruction; and we would again urge the importance in all good faith, of the officers being as fathers to their soldiers and counseling them in righteousness in all things, that they remember their prayers continually and that they be kind and courteous in all their deportment, showing all due deference and respect to their officers and all in authority over them, using no profane or vain language or doing anything that tends to debase them in the eyes of beholders; remembering the ordinances in cases of sickness, and keeping themselves pure and unspotted from surrounding elements and combinations, so that they may win the respect and confidence of the whole world; and that they, and especially the younger brethren, do not spend their income for things of no value, or that might as well be dispensed with, but lay it up and keep it safe against a day of need, and send to the poor of Israel when opportunity presents and in so doing they will be laying up treasures in heaven, and on earth in the days of their youth; we give counsel upon counsel because it is our duty, and because we love you, and want to exalt you to the highest glory, and not because we have no confidence in you, far from it. It will require all the means the battalion will have to spare, with the united exertion of the camp, to carry out all your wishes, though by the wisdom of heaven we will make every dollar sent us count as good as two or three at ordinary traffic, and especially let every one send all they can by our agent at next payment, for it is very uncertain whether you will have an opportunity to make any more remittances before the close of the year or some distant period. A company of monied men, late from the East, is now forming in Camp to purchase all the materials necessary to put in immediate operation a flourishing mill, when we get over the mountains; and nothing will be wanting on our part to make a good and pleasant retreat at the end of our journey.
Since writing you yesterday we have heard that about thirty wagons will winter at the Pawnee village, and Bishop Geo. Miller with about one hundred sixty wagons at the Punca village, one hundred and twenty miles above.
Let the officers be diligent in enjoining the above counsel.
Col. Kane is convalescent. We regret to hear of the illness of Col. Allen; please present him our kind feelings and hopes of his health and prosperity.
Those brethren who remembered the counsel in the distribution of their mites, shall receive the blessing of the council; and we bless you all, feeling that you are doing well and trying to do better; and may our heavenly Father preserve you blameless unto the end, is the prayer of your brethren.
Done in behalf of the council. BRIGHAM YOUNG, president, WILLARD RICHARDS, clerk. {1846-August 20-RCH 2:236-237}

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

Mormon History, Aug 20, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 20th I went in the morning & carried Mrs Woodruff in her Carriage into a deep vale of a shaded grove to spend the day in solitude for her health.
I returned & met in Council with the Twelve & 3 of the High Council from the Bluffs viz I Morley J. H. Hale & P. Richards. We spent the forenoon in doing business for the benefit of the People.
In the afternoon the two High Councils & the Twelve absolved into one council for the day. We herd the report of Br Griffin from the Pawnee village. Stated that about 20 waggons would spend the winter there. 160 waggons have gone on with Br Miller to the Punkas village with 10 chiefs to spend the winter. The Pawnees No about 4,000 men women & Children. The Punkas are a part of the sioux Nation A strong powerful people. The signs of the times indicate the fulfillment of the Book of Mormon.
Our Messenger to the Mormon Battalion returned. We also heard his report. All was well with the Saints in that quarter. They were getting praise & fame in all places whare they went. A mail was brought in from them. We conversed upon the subject of a mail route. President Young suggested the propriety of employing some of the Omahos to watch our cattle &c.
We met in the evening & passed resolutions concerning cutting Hay sewing turnips &c.

[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, Aug 19, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Near CutlerÂ's Park. Morning cloudy. From 9 to 11 a.m., Presidents Young and Kimball were with O. P. Rockwell in Captain RockwoodÂ's tent with others, hearing RockwellÂ's report of his arrest, imprisonment, etc., while Dr. Richards was writing a letter to Captain Jefferson Hunt, etc., of the Mormon Battalion, which was sent with 25 other letters to the soldiers by Dr. H. I. W. Edes to Fort Leavenworth, who took his departure this day. charging Colonel Kane $200 for his visit, etc., having written his views of Colonel Kane to Dr. Richards, which is on file.
About 11, Barnett Manzer called for counsel per Captain David Evans, who had taken a company of the poor Saints out to the prairie near Farmington, and Dr. Richards wrote for the Presidency to David Evans (copy on file) and sent by Brother Manzer. About 11½ [11:30], President Young rode out with his family. Dr. [Richards?] called on Colonel Kane, found him better. 6 p.m., Presidents Young and Richards visited Brother Van Cotts and examined a bolting cloth. Then to Brother Woodruff's and examined another. Dr. Richards then went to Colonel KaneÂ's, gave him duplicates of letter of council to Commander at Fort Leavenworth, and Dr. Edes opinion. Then saw Isaac Morley, Phinehas Richards, and Jonathan H. Hale, who brought a mail from Council Point of 17 letters for the Army, 33 for Cutler's Park and 23 he received from Brother Brown from the Fort Leavenworth, and at 7½ [7:30] went to President YoungÂ's tent with the doctor.

[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Aug 19, 1846

William Huntington: Died 19 August 1846, at Mt Pisgah, Iowa.

[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, Aug 19, 1846

Letter to the Mormon Battalion-- This letter and the one which follows it under a date of August 20th, both addressed to Captain Jefferson Hunt and the Officers and Soldiers of the Mormon Battalion, are the official instructions of the Presiding Council of the Church as the Battalion left for its duty to the United States government and to the body of the Saints. Interesting are the instructions: "If you are sick, live by faith, and let the surgeon's medicine alone if you want to live, using only such herbs and mild food as are at your disposal. If you give heed to this counsel you will prosper; but if not, we cannot be responsible for the consequences." In the second letter the Battalion was told among other significant things that: ". . . we give counsel upon counsel because it is our duty, and because we love you, and want to exalt you to the highest glory, and not because we have no confidence in you, far from it." This second letter is a classic as advice to young soldiers going into the service of their country for the first time, later First Presidencies at the beginning of World War I and World War II issued equally inspired counsel to the young L.D.S. soldiers going into service for the first time in those later wars. See especially the Messages of President Heber J. Grant and counselors read at the April and October Conferences, 1942.
Camp of Israel, Omaha Nation, Cutler's Park, August 19, 1846. To Captain Jefferson Hunt and the Officers, and Soldiers of the Mormon Battalion:- We have the opportunity of sending to Fort Leavenworth this morning, by Dr. Reed, a package of twenty-five letters, which we improve, with this word of counsel to you all: If you are sick, live by faith, and let surgeon's medicine alone if you want to live, using only such herbs and mild foods as are at your disposal. If you give heed to this counsel, you will prosper; but if not, we cannot be responsible for the consequences. A hint to the wise is sufficient.
In behalf of the Council, BRIGHAM YOUNG, President. W. Richards, Clerk. {1846-August 19-RCH 2:239}

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

Mormon History, Aug 19, 1846

Charles Coulson Rich: After Huntingtons death 19 August 1846, Rich assumed presidency at Mt Pisgah.

[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, Aug 19, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 19th I spent the day at home. Was unwell.

[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, Aug 18, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Near CutlerÂ's Park. Cloudy. Morning wind south. President Young quite unwell, kept his bed most of the day. About [?], rain commenced and a light wind veered toward the north by east with occasional showers till 2 or 3 p.m., when it rained steady till night, which suspended most business of the camp. Colonel Kane had a fever in the morning and after, quiet through the day.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Aug 18, 1846

William E Mclellin: Turned to James J. Strang who ordained him an apostle 18 Aug. 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, Aug 18, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 18th I rode out to find water for the heard of cattle. Mrs Woodruff was quite ill this morning. She walked out for her health. We had a severe thunder shower. We got wet also our beds.

[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, Aug 17, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Omaha Nation, near CutlerÂ's Park. Pleasant morning. President Young and many of the brethren called at the post office and read newspapers from 9 to 11. Mail of three letters was received from Council Point. At 11, President Young, George A. Smith, Woodruff [and] Richards called on William Clayton, found him better. (Dr. Richards visited Colonel Kane, found him better.) Visited Bishop Whitney, bower, and counseled Brother Marble not to go with his wife to Mt. Pisgah; if he did, he would not prosper. President Young said no man must leave the camp to go back without his counsel.
[At] quarter past 2 p.m., high council opened to Brother Samuel RussellÂ's tent, second company, present of the Twelve: B. Young, H. C. Kimball, O. Pratt, W. Woodruff, G. A. Smith, A. Lyman, W. Richards. Minutes of all the proceedings of the council read by Samuel Russell. O. P. Rockwell came in council with another package of ten letters and several papers, which were mentioned in last eveningÂ's report. Report was read by Samuel Russell of 222 men and boys, 230 wagons, 83 horses, 741 oxen, 340 cows, 105 young cattle, 244 sheep in second company, or Elder KimballÂ's company. Report recommitted. Question was asked if anyone would furnish means for millstones. Brother Boss offered one half. Brother Van Waggenen $100. Father Eldridge said they might as well choose a committee, for the rest could be made out. President Young recommended that if any have means they do not want to spend now, they should send and get such commodities as are needed in camp, and they will get their money again when the goods are disposed of.
Voted that N. K. Whitney go to St. Louis and purchase articles wanted with the Battalion funds, and burr stones, etc. President Young moved that J. C. Wright go with Bishop Whitney to St. Louis and stand by him in every situation. And voted also that John Von Cott, as he is going to St. Louis, be counseled to go with Bishop Whitney, and that they render each other mutual assistance as far as possible. President Young nominated A. P. Rockwood to see that every person is visited in first company, collect the means, and ascertain how and what articles will be wanted in sending to St. Louis, voted. Elder Kimball nominated J. M. Grant for second company, voted.
President Young proposed uniting with the brethren on the other side of the river and control the purchase of wheat. Dr. Richards read a letter from the trustees of Nauvoo, July 15, one from E. T. Benson, August 6, one from Phinehas Young, and four others. One from Elijah Haws, June 25, Phillip Packard, July 14, Nauvoo. Bishop Whitney asked whose name he should purchase in. Council voted that Bishop Whitney act his own wisdom in that matter. Voted A. P. Rockwood be appointed for the first company, and J. D. Grant for the second, to settle newcomers and see that proper returns are made to the council.
Voted that Rockwood and Grant select a campground and form a third company of newcomers. Voted that John S. Tanner and eight others, have permission to join themselves to Amasa LymanÂ's company, having 9 men and boys, 12 wagons, 5 horses, 36 oxen, 24 cows, 4 sheep. Voted that Bishop Whitney pay or settle with John Evertts for a span of horses and wagon appraised at $150, and $25 a pair. Voted that the marshall visit the different families in camp and notify them to build sod fire places, keep the yards clear and clean, and ropes out of the backyards, on penalty of being brought before the council and having their noses rubbed in it. Voted that the inner night guard be left to the discretion of the marshall.
Colonel Rockwood reported that the Omaha Indians had not returned from their hunt. On motion of President Young, voted that Lorenzo Young assist Brother Lott in gathering all the old cattle belonging to the Church, and put them in the care of Brother Lott. Every individual take care of their own old cattle. [At] 6 ½ [6:30], adjourned till Thursday evening, 7 oÂ'clock, Daniel RussellÂ's tent. Dr. Richards called on Colonel Kane, saw H. J. M. Edes, M. D., who had just arrived on request of the officers at Fort Leavenworth, from Weston, Missouri. Dr. Sprague reported 100 cases of sickness in camp, mostly fever.

[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Aug 17, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 17 It was Announced this morning that Porter Rockwell had arived in Camp And brought the Mail from Nauvoo. I recieved one Paper showing that the Editor Dr Matlock was dead. The same Paper informed us that the mob spirit was still alive in Hancock Co that they were still mobing, whiping, And killing each other in that County. The Saints were leaving as fast as possible And the new citizens had taken the matter in hand And the war was now between them And the mob.
I was in council with the Twelve & High Council. Porter Rockwell was with us. He was kept in jail as long as they Could & when brought to Court no man appeared against him so He was discharged & came to the Camp.
Mrs Woodruff was quite ill through the night.

[Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies]
[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, Sunday, Aug 16, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Cutler's Park. Wind north. Pleasant. About 11 a.m., four or five hundred of the Saints assembled at the stand in public meetings. Present: B. Young, H. C. Kimball, O. Pratt, W. Richards, W. Woodruff, G. A. Smith, A. Lyman, and Father John Smith. Meeting opened and addressed by O. Pratt, showing that the Saints were now living without the laws of the state and the United States, and under the principles or the celestial law. The reason why we have changed our counsel so often is because the people did not abide the best counsel which was given us by the Spirit. The best counsel was for the Church to fit out a company to go with the Twelve over the mountains, but as they were dilatory and failed to do this, we would not forsake them but give the next best advice, so that no one has a right to find fault with the council for changing their advice from time to time. It is unbelief that causes all our whining. The council are determined to carry out those principles which are made manifest to us by the whisperings of the Holy Spirit, if it takes the last shirt from our backs or our last property.
There has been some fault finding by those who have recently arrived in camp because they want to cut their own hay and put in their own turnip patch, but we must be one, and feel a general interest for the whole, and when anyone is told by the foreman to pick up a basket of chips and pour them out again, then pick them up again and find no fault. But if the foreman does wrong, let the council judge and not you. Quit at 12 noon, when Father John Smith arose and said he arrived at this place last Sabbath, too late to attend meeting, and was happy in the present privilege and urged the people to do as they would be done unto, and not cut his neighborÂ's ox with an axe because it came round his wagon in the night and other such things as he heard of, and reproved parents for suffering children to take the name of God in vain, and be saucy to old people, and enjoined it upon parents to train up their children so as to prepare them to take the lead of the Church as they must do by and by, and follow council in all things.
At 13 minutes past 12, President Young arose and said he had a short discourse to preach to the sisters whose husbands, brothers, etc., have gone into the army. Wanted every family left here to feel their dependence on their brethren who have looked to them and took care of their cattle, etc. O. Hyde, P. P. Pratt, and John Taylor, were led to Fort Leavenworth at the very time the soldiers were receiving pay for their clothing, and prevailed upon them to send a part of their money to their families, consigned to N. K. Whitney, J. Hale, and D. Spencer, and he saw sniveling and crying the very day Brother Parley before the money was counted. And some have written to their husbands to send no more money to the Church, for they could not get what they had sent. If you will keep working to get what you can from your husbands to help the poor, and you will [?] him the names of all who have written such news to their husbands will be marked on the history, to be read in future days.
You can have your money and do what you please with it, but it will release the Saints from all the obligations they are under by our pledge to look to their families. We are going to send N. K. Whitney to St. Louis to get such things as we want to carry over the mountains at wholesale, and recommended to the sisters to let their agents retain this money and get sugar, shoes, coffee, etc., at St. Louis, and get that in Missouri for 25 cents, and save all they can, and took two bills of Missouri bank and showed it to the camp. He wanted to ascertain who wanted their money after they understand it, and they shall have it, but it will release me from all the obligation I am under to see that they are taken care of. The Almighty governs this camp.
[At 12:45] 1/4 to one, Father Smith proposed the camp all be united in sending to St. Louis, and moved that all who concurred manifest it by show of hands. Elder Kimball concurred and said he should let all he was to receive go to St. Louis with theirs. Lorenzo Young spoke on close communion, and close communion sisters who choose to their money. President Young said, Â"does this congregation council the sisters to let their money lay in the hands of Bishop Whitney to be laid out by him to the best advantage for their families, all who do will manifest it by uplifted hands,Â" and the congregation generally raised their hands. The opposite was called for, but none voted.
President Young said again if any sister wanted her money she could apply for it and she should have it. In the last days the Saints must be worn out, and I want to wear out, and I mean to go and preach the gospel, and to England again, and when I was there before should have gone onto the continent to Germany if he had not been called home.
Bishop Whitney said he wanted their prayers. Would rather go in the hay field than go to St. Louis, and would say that he had seen goods sold in this region from 50 to 300 percent advance of the original cost. Would go if the Saints said so, but wanted a man to go with him. President Young gave notice that those who wanted to send to St. Louis had better make out their bills and send them in soon. There is a feeling of distrust among the Saints about honest deals, and if any man says we deal dishonestly he lies, and he knows he lies, and lies before God. And for two years, while the Twelve have been building, the Twelve have paid when they have borrowed as they have agreed. One man apostatized and returned to Nauvoo and said Elder Kimball had stolen all his beans. Elder Kimball put two bushels [of] beans in his wagon to carry, and afterwards went and distributed them to the poor, and the man apostatized. Elder Kimball said he repented and asked forgiveness for not taking 1800 lbs. of flour he had before he left, and the Church voted to forgive him if he would do so no more.
George A. Smith appointed a business meeting at 5 p.m., and closed by prayer about l ½ [1:30] p.m., naming and praying for some six or eight sick persons. President Young requested the singers and music meet on Thursday evening at the tabernacle to Samuel RussellÂ's tent, called [the] tabernacle, because it was so large. About 5½ [5:30] p.m. the brethren assembled at the stand, the Twelve present as in the morning, and Father Smith. President Alpheus Cutler said the cattle were not all taken care of. Many were let loose last night, and he wanted the brethren to gather their cattle and herd them. There are some things wrong. A fence is thrown down and his cattle let out of the yard, and we want the sheep taken care of tomorrow, and cattle too, and proposed that the brethren who had means come forward and send to St. Louis for two sets of millstones and fixtures to set up a flour mill.
[At] 25 minutes to 7, President Young said they had made an estimate of the expense of two sets of four foot burr stones with all the fixtures, [and it] could be had for $800 or less, weighing about five tons, and the iron might be mostly carried on the wagons that carry the stones, and wanted the brethren to form a company, take over the mill, and set them running and own it. Did not want them to put a dollar into the trustees' hands. Did not want a dollar, nor any of the Twelve. We can set our bogus machine in operation, and all the bogus machine I ever had was the invisible hand of a kind providence. All who are in favor of a mill being procured on the principle which has been told you by an individual or company, signify it by saying aye. Universal "aye" resounded through the meeting. If the brethren will take council, five years will not roll away before there will not be a poor man in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
President Cutler requested the foreman to have their hands and tools ready to go to work. President Young said he would tell a story. One of the brethren in Elder KimballÂ's camp hung his grindstone and guarded his tools and unhung his grindstone to put his b
ack in his wagon.
[At 7:45] 1/4 before 8, Orrin Porter Rockwell arrived in camp with a mail of 39 letters and many papers. About 8, President Young, O. Pratt, Richards, George A. Smith, and O. P. Rockwell called to see Brother William Clayton who had been sick about four days. Found him in great distress. Laid hands on him and he felt better. The brethren set down and read a letter from John M. Bernhisel, telling that Emma had sold the lot on which the Nauvoo House stands (on file), and talked till near 10 o'clock and returned home. Presidents Young and Richards laid hands on Susan Green who was sick with the headache.

[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Aug 16, 1846. Sunday.

[William Clayton Journal] Since Wednesday have scarcely even been out of bed, but kept with raging fever all the time. Twice Heber [Kimball] has rebuked my fever but it has returned. Through the fears and persuasion of my family I have taken some pills and medicine given by Dr. Sprague, but seem to grow worse all the time. Today I have been very sick all day. Towards evening my folks concluded to get me out of the wagon into the tent where they had prepared a bed. Soon after I got into the tent President Young, Dr. Richards, G. A. Smith, O. Pratt, Lorenzo Young and others called to see me. When they had been in a few moments President Young called O. P. Rockwell into the tent and the feelings we had on seeing him cannot be described. He has been in prison some time but when his trial came on there was no one to accuse him and the judge discharged him. The brethren all laid hands on me and rebuked my disease in the name of the Lord President Young being mouth. I immediately felt easier and slept well all night being the first sleep I had had of any account for three days and nights . . .

[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, Aug 16, 1846

Samuel Bent: Died 16 August 1846 at Garden Grove, Iowa.

[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]
[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, Saturday, Aug 15, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Near Cutler's Park. Pleasant. About 5, Agatha Ann, wife of John D. Lee, was delivered of a son named Heber John. Wind south. About 8, was a general turnout on horse, mules, and on foot to gather all the stray cattle, and returned to the yards with them about noon, and President Young joined in the hunt on horseback. This p.m. [afternoon] was spent by the camp in gathering the strays from the prairie and sorting their cattle, etc. Some hay was cut and put in the yards. About 5 p.m., President Young called at the post office and appointed a council at 7 to appoint a committee to visit the Omaha Indians. About 10 a.m., William G. Sterrett took a mail of five letters for Council Point, including yesterdayÂ's letter to council (copy on file). Dr. Richards visited Colonel Kane, found him better, his fever having assumed the appearance of intermittent chill, fever, for four or five days. About 7, a mail of eight letters arrived from Council Point.
About 7½ [7:30], high council met in Colonel RockwoodÂ's tent. Present also [were] Presidents Young, Kimball, Richards, Woodruff, O. Pratt, George A. Smith, and A. Lyman, of the Twelve. PresidentYoung proposed that a committee be appointed to visit the Omahas who had returned from their hunt, and council voted to send a committee of three, and by suggestion of President Young, elected A. P. Rockwood, Jedediah M. Grant, and Charles R. Bird as that committee. President Young said it was his impression that the committee would not want to enter into any specific agreement, but create a friendly feeling, and have a meeting at a future time, and that he did not want the Indians to be invited to our camp, we would go [to] them.
President Young said to the committee, we want the privilege of staying this winter cutting timber, building houses, perhaps leaving some families and crops. Suggest that we might do them good, repairing their guns and learning them how, school children, and if they wonÂ't pay, we will pay them. They [will] not touch our property and we will not theirs; that he would not be disappointed if the Mormons made a strong foothold at the Bluffs and more or less tarried for some time to come; that he would rather go to the mountains than anywhere else to live on account of health; that Parley Pratt said it was commonly reported in Missouri that the President Polk had issued a circular that the Mormons need not be in a hurry to remove. They should be protected on their lands while he was President.
Elder Woodruff reported a man had thrown down his fence and let out his cattle just for the sake of getting a nearer path. President Young moved that all such persons be notified to appear before the council on Monday next. Moved by Colonel Rockwood that each foreman of the several divisions shall be instructed to have a good and sufficient night guard and herdsmen, and if any stray, they shall be immediately hunted under the directive of the marshall, and carried. President Young said if he was going to rule a kingdom he would have judges that would decide according to righteousness, and let righteous be the law. Moved by A. P. Rockwood that Colonel Hosea Stout be appointed to make out a roll of all the officers of the Legion that are in this place in regular grade, and also a roll of all the able-bodied men between the ages of 18 and 45 and make report to their council as soon as may be, carried.
Dr. [Willard Richards] reported that Sister Omon was sick, needed a place and nurse. President Young offered a wagon, and the foreman of Brother LymanÂ's company to find a nurse. Cahoon, Turnip Committee, called for 25 men and boys and 8 yoke of oxen to commence turnip ground. George A. Smith reported that several boys were about to start for Nauvoo. Council appointed Lorenzo Young to see the boys and learn their views and situations. President Young motioned that the first company make a yard and gather and herd and yard all their sheep together, carried. Same motion carried in E1der KimballÂ's, or second company. Elder Kimball offered to build a yard for his sheep in his company by Monday evening and council accepted his offer. Voted that Brother FlakeÂ's company build a sheep yard Monday. 20 minutes to 10 adjourned.

[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Aug 15, 1846

[John D. Lee] about 5 Pres Young was in the PO & gave out an appointment for a council at 7 to select a committee to visit the Omaha Indians ... Council convened agreeable to previous Notice Presant of the 12 B Young Kimble Woodruff O Pratt & Richards Also the city and High Council appointed A P
Rockwood J M. Grant & Charles Bird as a committee to confer with the Omaha Indians 2nd Pres Young said that we want the liberty of staying here this winter at least cutting what timber we want leaving a few families here in the spring plan crops &c should we deem it proper proffered to them the liberty of having their children schooled if they want'tell them that we have gun smiths among us and we will repair their guns & learn them etc. We expect to leave a branch of Saints at this point and in all probability make a permanent stand here for years to come'I should not be surprised that Mormonism has been such a strong hold about the bluffs that will remain for time'Elder Woodruff stated before the council that some persons had trespassed against him & co. by laying down his cattle yard fence sooner than drive a few rods round & have let all their cattle out'That his Foreman objected to having his lot broken down'but with out effect. Pres Young motioned that Bro Woodruff bring those men before this council immediately to be dealt with 2nd & carried unamiously On Motion of A P Rockwood that each Foreman of the several divisions be instructed to have a watch placed over their cattle by night as well as herded by day & that should any brake out & stray off that they be collected immediately by the Marshall carried without a dissenting vote On Mo. Per A P Rockwood that Col Hosea Stout be appointed to make alist of all the officers of the Legion in this place according to their several grades also that a list of all the able bodied men over the age of 18 years & under 45'& report same to this council as soon as practicle'carried unamious Counsellor Cahoon called for 25 men & boys & 8 yoke of oxen to complete the work assigned him with reference to sowing turnips Pres Young said that he would send 15 men & boys & 5 yoke oxen Bro Kimble furnished the remainder'Dr L S Sprague reported that 2 women in camp sick & much crowded & want nursing Pres Young said that the Foreman of that division attend to the sick in his Co. Council decided on Pres Young s mo. That a yard be built & all the sheep in Co. No. 1 be herded together & preserved from the wolves 2nd Same motion passed in Co No 2 upon H C Kimble s motion'Elder G A Smith reported Amasa Lyman & Father John Smith came in after the council opened. Council voted that Lorenzo Young be appointed to visit the boys that Bro G. A Smith reported was about to return to Nauvoo & learn the reason of their returning and advise them for their good council voted that James M Flake & Co. build the sheep fold on Monday morning next decided that Elder Kimble attend to built the sheep fold for his division & his Co. Gather the sheep of his Co.'the meeting adjourned at " to 10 to Mon.

[source: John D. Lee, Diary]

Mormon History, Aug 15, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 15th I met in Council with the Twelve to attend to such business as our circumstances requred. I Baptized Phebe in the evening for the restoration of her health. It seemed to be a benefit to her.

[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, Aug 14, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Near Cutler's Park. Cool. Wind northeast. Light fog and a few clouds. Some scolding in camp about keeping up their cattle according to council last evening. [At] 7, President Young busy in fitting wagons and implements for making and hauling hay, and about noon visited the post office with Elder Kimball and heard a pamphlet by Dr. Homer relating the capture of the steamer, Â"President,Â" by the pirate ship, Â"Flying Mona.Â" Apparently a romance, and directed the clerk to write a letter to the council at Council Point concerning the funds of the Â"Mormon Battalion,Â" etc., as suggested to the council last evening. Dr. Richards and ladies dined with Brother J. D. Lee at 2 p.m., and dictated a letter to Brother Lee for the council at Council Point, and copied the same in the evening after reading it to the President about 6 in the evening.
About 8, President Young came in the post office accompanied by E. D. Wooley and Brothers Felshaw and Sterritt, who had just arrived from Nauvoo and were counseled to cross their families over the river and move into camp if they chose so to do. About 4 p.m., Dr. Sprague reported that he had visited 30 patients in camp and had 15 or 20 more to visit, mostly fevers, and of newcomers, very few of those sick who had been out through the season.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Aug 14, 1846

[John D. Lee] at " past 7 Pres Young & W Richards in PO in council with E D Woolsey & Brother Felshaw & Sterritt who had just arrived in camp from Nauvoo Pres Young explained to them the order of the camp told them to move over if they choose & then he would give them all the council they wanted Adjourned at 8 eve ... Pres Young proposed that each Co build a yard for cattle prepare backhouses keep their tents & camping places clean'cut their wood short so as to burn in turf fire places haul their wood back of the waggons build hay racks & keep it filled with hay in their yards' keep up a night watch adjourned about 9.

[source: John D. Lee, Diary]
[John D. Lee, Diary]

Mormon History, Aug 14, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 14th Friday An exceding hot day. I went to seek out a place for washing. My oxen ran away from me. I chased them about 2 miles in the hot sun and came near melting myself.

[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, Thursday, Aug 13, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Near Cutler's Park. Morning cloudy. A little sprinkle of rain about 11 oÂ'clock. President Young was visiting the different parts of the camp, counseling, etc. At 6 p.m., Presidents Young, Richards, Woodruff, and the high council at Dr. RichardÂ's tent and heard them investigate the affairs of the camps. A report of first company from A. P. Rockwood was read, consisting of 12 divisions. Total, 324 men and boys over 10 years, 359 wagons, 146 horses, 1264 oxen, 49 mules, 828 cows, 416 sheep. President Young advised that the cattle now in be retained in the yards on the morrow and till further instructions, and gather all they could on the morrow, and gather hay into the yards for the cattle, and finish the yards, and on Saturday all hands turn out and gather all the cattle from every quarter. After that keep them all herded, and the council voted accordingly.
On suggestion of President Young, the foremen of the several divisions of his company were called by marshall and instructed by President Cutler to carry out the last vote, and similar notice was written by Dr. Richards to second company and read round their camp by Jedediah M. Grant. President Young said he wanted the council to take into consideration the propriety of sending Bishop Whitney to St. Louis for the purpose of laying in supplies for the camp.
There are many women in camp who have husbands in the army who have sent them money, and we have them to take care of, and all we can help them to save we save to ourselves, for we would have to pay it out of our own pockets. If they lay out their money here they will pay three prices for what they get. Flour is $3 per hundred here, and we can get wheat for 25 cents, and this would justify us in getting a small set of millstones and irons to move by two, three, or four horsepower, and with our labor, added to our means, make a great saving of money, and I want this council to take into consideration the propriety of this thing, and also of getting two sets of burr stones and mill fixtures to carry with us over the mountains. And also the council across the river to consider the same thing. About 9, adjourned to Monday next 1 p.m. at Samuel RussellÂ's quarters.
Presidents Young and Richards and P. P. Pratt walked towards the east, stopping nearly in front of the PresidentÂ's tent where they stood in conversation nearly an hour, when President Young spoke his feelings freely about the English mission and their former mission to England, and Richard Hedlock and Thomas Ward and others; shipping office, etc., in which Brother Richards concurred, and they separated about 10 oÂ'clock.

[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Aug 13, 1846 (Thursday)

Three companies of the Mormon Battalion began to move west from F. Leavenworth, after having received their arms, camp equipage, etc. On the 14th the other two companies took up the line of march.

[source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

Mormon History, Aug 13, 1846 (Thursday)

About this time the mobbers in Hancock County, Ill., concluded to drive the few remaining "Mormon" families from Nauvoo.

[source: Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology]

Mormon History, Aug 13, 1846

Having arrived at Fort Leavenworth on Aug. 1 and spent the ensuing weeks becoming provisioned, the first three companies of the Mormon Battalion depart for Santa Fe, leaving behind Captain Allen, who had taken ill.

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

Mormon History, Aug 13, 1846

[John D. Lee] At 6 eve by request of Pres Young Woodruff Richards & some few others met in council wit[h] the Municiple & High Council 1st by request J D Lee read the committees report of the organization of Co No 1 for the purpose of regulating the working department of the organization & Preparing for winter and economy of the camp &c Pres Young gave or rather said that he considered it wisdom to complete our fence'& bring hay on the morrow to keep all the cattle that are here to get up our horses & mules and keep them here & not let them out till we get all our cattle here to start out on Saturday morning at 7 from the Prairie & between the 2 Encampments & go in every direction & sweep the timber & Prairie & gather all our cattle in a few hours Motioned that we carry out Pres Youngs views carried without a dissenting vote Said that he wanted the foremen of the several divisions to be notified to come immediately to this council that they may receive such instructions as will be for the benefit & economy of the camp whereupon the Marshal was sent Post Haste to execute the Pres views'Pres Young continued & said I want to lay before this council the propriety of sending Bishop Whitney to St Louis for the purpose of laying in the necessary articles of the camp for instance there are a great many women in our camp whose husbands are in the army & we have them to take care of'they need articles of clothing flour &c unless we send and get such articles they will pay 3 prices for everything they get Flour is sold at $3.00 for cwt in camp & in fact we cannot get it for less from the sellers for 50 miles distance We can buy 3000 bushels of wheat at 25 [cents] per bushel this certainly would justify us in geting a set of Mill Irons & a small set of Burrs say 18 inches circumference and rig up a grist mill say about 3 horse power & boalt to do the grinding of the camp that is the wheat I want this council & the council over the river to think of these things & decide'that we may have answer in season'

[John D. Lee, Diary]

Mormon History, Aug 13, 1846

Mormon Battalion began its 2,000-mile march from Fort Leavenworth to San Diego, California.

[Hemidakaota, "Church Chronology from 1800-2000," http://www.lds.net/forums/scripture-study-forum/12108-church-chronology-1800-2000-part-1-a.html#post214550]
[source: Hemidakaota, "Church Chronology from 1800-2000," http://www.lds.net/forums/scripture-study-forum/12108-church-chronology-1800-2000-part-1-a.html#post214550]

Mormon History, Aug 13, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 13th A rainy morning. Met in Council during 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]
[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, Aug 12, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Strong south wind continued till near noon when the wind changed to the north. President Young was engaged in taking the number of men, wagons, oxen, cows, sheep, and mules in his camp and organizing the same in companies and giving direction how to manage the labors of the camp. At 7 a.m., Dr. Richards met the brethren between the two camps, called off between two and three hundred letters, then returned to his wagon and made out the mail for Council Point, 111 letters and 13 letters for the Eastern mail, and delivered the same to William Miller who had come from the opposite shore and brought a letter from Daniel Spencer, saying his wife and child and his brother, Hiram Spencer, were dead, and asking council how to distribute their property. Brothers Young and Richards wrote him a word of consolation, invited him to move over the river to take [care] of the widow and orphans, and offered instructions about property when he arrived, and informed him of his appointment to receive and disburse funds for the Mormon Battalion, and sent by William Miller.
Colonel Kane was more feverish. Had his head shaved, and requested Dr. Richards to get a Dover powder and bathing tub. The postmaster made out mail for the army and one for Pawnee Village, but no chance to send. Wrote history. At 5, President Young rode round the square with Brother Duzette, who was convalescent from a severe illness, and Dr. Richards. [In the afternoon] p.m., wind chilly from the north. About 7½ [7:30], at the blast of the trumpet, the first division of the camp assembled in the square, when 324 men over ten years old were reported and on bills of 11 companies, and 359 wagons, 146 horses, 1051 oxen, 39 mules, 588 cows, 372 sheep. There were elected by general vote and nomination of each company as follows: first company, Joshua Holman, foreman; second, Levi Stewart; third, James M. Flake; fourth, Welcome Chapman; fifth, Isaac C. Haight; sixth, John Vance; seventh, Sidney Tanner; eighth, Joseph Horne; ninth, W. M. Leffingwell; tenth, A. O. Smoot; eleventh, Ormus Bates.
President Young proposed that each company prepare a yard for cattle, build a back house, keep the yard clean, draw wood on wagons, cut it short, burn it in a chimney made of turf, drive teams back of wagons, build a hay rack and keep hay in the cattle yard, and keep up a night watch. Adjourned about 9. Presidents Young, Richards, and J. D. Lee walked south on the green and saw the young people dance about half an hour and returned home. The bills of the several companies, to 11, were reported to the high council for use and safe keeping. A refreshing shower about midnight.

[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Aug 12, 1846th

[Deseret] at Twenty Wells, now Grantsville, members of the Harlan-Young Party buried John Hargrave; the first emigrant laid to rest in Utah soil.

[source: History to Go, Pioneers and Cowboys, http://historytogo.utah.gov/timeline/pioneersandcowboys.html]

Mormon History, Aug 12, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] Aug 12th 1846
Cutlers Park Omaho Nation.
The toll or memorandom of the men & boys, No of waggons, Horses, oxen, cows, mules & sheep belonging to the tenth division.
Wilford Woodruff Capt
John S Fowler Clerk
The sum total of the tenth division is as follows: ...
We had a shower of rain in the night the first we have had for several weeks.

[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, Aug 12, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 12th I spent a vary busy day in building a fence for our cattle for about 150 head Also in looking up cattle.
I met in Council with the Twelve.
We also had a public meeting of company No. 1 in the Hollow square when the whole encampment was [now in yard?] divided into Eleven divisions. My company was the Tenth division. The following is a form of the copy of my division Addressed as follows:

[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, Aug 11, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Very pleasant. Strong east wind. About 8, President Young began to move his family onto the new camping ground where the camp is expected to stay till after haying. About 9 a.m., P. P. Pratt arrived from Fort Leavenworth with a special message from the Fort to N. K. Whitney for council, signed by O. Hyde, and a package of $5,860 dollars, being a portion of the pay of the Mormon Battalion for clothing at Fort Leavenworth at 3.50 cents per month. Council counted the money, found it correct. Read a letter from Samuel Gully, who gave $10 to the President. Also, letter from Ferguson to W. Woodruff. Heard a good report from Brother Pratt concerning the Battalion and Colonel Allen. Said it was reported in Missouri that President Polk had issued his proclamation that the Mormons had better not be in haste in going to California, that they should be protected and paid for all their losses in Missouri and Iowa. Council adjourned from 12 to 6 p.m., there having been present Young, P. Pratt, O. Pratt, Woodruff, A. Lyman, W. Richards, George A. Smith, and N. K. Whitney.
President Young was engaged in organizing and settling his wagons. Also, of Dr. RichardÂ's, G. A. SmithÂ's, O. PrattÂ's, TaylorÂ's, P. P. PrattÂ's, and W. WoodruffÂ's, and in all about 300 in the oblong square then fencing a little south of KimballÂ's encampment. [At] 6 p.m., H. C. Kimball, W. Woodruff, George A. Smith, O. Pratt, met in council with President Cutler and council by invitation. Council voted that the brethren sow turnips as soon as they have built their fences.
President Young proposed that the camp be numbered into l00's, 10's, etc., and let the council call for an equal distribution of men from the various companies for the various branches of business. Voted that the camp meet at the sound of horn 6 a.m. tomorrow to receive letters and other important business between the camps, suggested by Dr. Richards. Elder Kimball proposed that order be entered into in herding so that each may herd his own so far as practicable. President Young said shall write the name in my camp, divide them into 10's, appoint a foreman to each, give my herd in charge of herdsmen who must return the cattle at night, etc. Council adjourned about 8½ [8:30]. Colonel Kane had little fever and was apparently much more comfortable than the day previous. Strong south wind.
In the council, President Young referred to a man who had passed $l5 bogus below the settlement and gone on west in MillerÂ's company; that he had sent for him to return immediately and pay the man, satisfy him for his trouble, repent and make satisfaction to the Church, or he should pay fourfold if [it] took the last farthing he possessed, and be cast out from among us, and that is the law to Israel, and you may write it.

[source: Apostle Willard Richards Journal]

Mormon History, Aug 11, 1846

Parley P. Pratt arrives at Winter Quarters from Fort Leavenworth with $5,860, "being a portion of the allowance for clothing of the [Mormon] battalion.

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

Mormon History, Aug 11, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 11th The whole of President Youngs encampment moved on to another prairie ridge. This was company No 1st. It was ownly seperated from Co No 2 Elder Kimball Captain by a valley about 50 rods. We formed a Holler Square with an + [square] of about 350 waggons. We then built a strong fence as an encloser of the whole 5 rods from the waggons. The waggons were placed mouth fronting the square And made a spended appearance. It was a busy day with US.

[John D. Lee, Diary]
[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, Aug 10, 1846

About 8 Pres Young Kimble & Woodruff met in council with the High & City Council who had convened between the 2 main encampments on a high eminence give them such instructions as was necessary with reference to their duties ...

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

Mormon History, Aug 10, 1846

[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 10 I spent the day in building a fence with my company around my encampment. I met in council with the High council. It is vary Hot weather. My thermometer has stood at about 100 for several days in the shade.

[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, Sunday, Aug 9, 1846.

[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Pleasant day. Presidents Young and Woodruff (Dr. Richards was sick) met the brethren and sisters of the PresidentÂ's and other encampments at 10 ½ [10:30] a.m. at the place prepared on Saturday for meetings, and after waiting till noon for Elder Kimball, who did not come, addressed the congregation. Elder Kimball had a meeting in his division of the camp to give some instructions, and the time passed faster than he was aware till he thought it too late to go to the grove. [At] 5 p.m., minutes of previous meetings read by Dr. Richards and Lee, when it, the twelve councilors previously elected on the 7th, were severally confirmed by vote. Horace Eldridge was elected city marshall for Cutler's Park, a name proposed by President Young. Motioned by Elder Kimball and voted unanimously, Elder Cutler having first selected the spot. Letter to President Polk was read by Dr. Richards; unanimously sanctioned by the whole Presidency and signed by President Young and Clerk, W. Richards. Voted unanimously that all on this side the river form one camp.
After notice of many articles lost and found, and prayer by President Kimball, meeting adjourned about 7. On return, Presidents Young and Richards called on Colonel Kane. Found him more comfortable, and about 8, met with Father Smith, Woodruff, and others, in Colonel RockwoodÂ's tent, organizing the camp preparatory to settling till cold weather, and continued conversation till 1/4 past 11 on various subjects, Strangism, letter to President Polk, etc.

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

Mormon History, Aug 9, 1846 (Sunday)

The first meeting was held at Cutler's Park, where the exiled Saints at that time intended to spend the winter. The municipal High Council was accepted by the people and the place named Cutler's Park, in honor of Alpheus Cutler. This place, which now became the temporary headquarters of the camps, is three miles from the spot where Winter Quarters afterwards was built.

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

Mormon History, Aug 9, 1846

[Hosea Stout Diary] Sunday August 9th 1846. I went to a meeting with my wife. It was in the grove North of this camp at a place previously prepared in a thick cool shade.Woodruff, Clapp Farr and Lorenzo Young spoke in the fore noon.there had been previously to my coming hear an organization went into which was had before the people today and was as follows.There was what was called a Municipal High council consisting of 12 men appointed who were endowed with all the powers of a High council of the church & also the powers of common council of a municipality and hence all the powers both political and ecclesiastical were centered in them who were to act under the jurisdiction of the Twelve of course.The Twelve also sat in & had a voice in said council whenever they saw proper.
The council was composed of Alpheus Cutler as President2 Reynolds Cahoon3 Daniel Russell4 A. P. Rockwood5 J. M. Grant6 B. L. Clapp . . . . 7 Winslow Farr8 Thomas Grover9 Samuel Russell10 Ezra Chase11 Alanson Eldridge12 Cornelius P Lott.
Samuel Russell was appointed Secratary Horace S. Eldridge was appointed Marshall. The Place or Municipality was called Cutlers Park at the suggestion of President Young.
There was a letter read designed to be sent to President Polk stating our intentions for the future & that we intended to petition Congress for a Territorial Government as soon as we got to California. It also loudly demured to the idea afloat that it was contemplated by some of the government officers to have L. W. Boggs appointed Governer of Caliafornia[.] It said that "Lilburn W. Boggs and peace & Mormondom never could dwell together."
President Young informed us that there would be a council house built in which the saints could enjoy themselves and improve in the blessing which we have recieved in the Temple and sing and prayand if some had a mind to shout he did not care anything about it
It was now intended to live in this timber in the winter or as soon as cool weather set in. I came home from the after noon meeting about dark after which I saw Brigham and Rockwood at a council and learned the order of his camp and was informed how to proceed in relation to the company affairs & the order of working &c &c.

[source: Diaries of Hosea Stout]

Mormon History, Aug 9, 1846

Brigham Young tells a general meeting that certain apostles are wrong in saying that marriage sealings will occur "in the wilderness." He insists that sealings cannot occur until another temple is built, though a week previously he secretly sealed three plural wives to Wilford Woodruff at the camp. Brigham Young writes to President James K. Polk, "We will go so far that our enemies will not choose to follow us and we will pick so unpromising a place that nobody will covet it."

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

Mormon History, Aug 9, 1846

Letter to Pres. Polk-- This letter to President James K. Polk from President Brigham Young and the Council of the Twelve like the one written the months previous by Parley P. Pratt again confirms the loyalty of the Latter-day Saints to the government of the United States and to the Constitution of the United States.
LETTER AND RESOLUTIONS to President James K. Polk, From President Brigham Young and Council of the Twelve "The following letter to President Polk was read by Dr. Richards and unanimously sanctioned: 'To James K. Polk, President of the United States. Sir: A large portion of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, having passed from the nation of our nativity, and the republic over which you have the honor to preside, and finding ourselves on the western shore of the great Missouri, while others of our friends are following close in our rear, beg your excellency's indulgence for a moment while we pour out the pure feelings of our souls before you.
The cause of our exile we need not repeat, it is already with you, suffice it to say that a combination of fortuitous, illegal and unconstitutional circumstances have placed us in our present situation, on a journey which we design shall end in a location west of the Rocky Mountains, and within the basin of the Great Salt Lake or Bear river valley, as soon as circumstance shall permit, believing that to be a point where a good living will require hard labor, and consequently will be coveted by no other people, while it is surrounded by so unpopulous but fertile country.
While on our way thither and beyond the borders of the states, we were met by Captain J. Allen of your Army of the West, proffering us the enrollment of five hundred men to be marched into California, via Santa Fe, there to be discharged at the expiration of one year, receiving the pay of regular soldiers and other valuable and unusual emoluments; to this offer we promptly responded, though it has left five hundred of our loaded teams standing on the prairies of the Pottawatomie and Omaha nations, and nearly as many families destitute of their head and guardians, only as they are counseled and nourished by their friends who were already overborne with cares and worn out with anxiety and fatigue; but in the midst of this we were cheered with the presence of our friend, Mr. Little of New Hampshire, who assured us of the personal friendship of the president, in the act before us, and this assurance though not doubted by us in the least, was soon made doubly sure by the testimony of Colonel Kane of Philadelphia, whose presence in our midst, and the ardor with which he has espoused the cause of a persecuted and suffering people, and the testimony he has borne of your excellency's kind feelings, have kindled up a spark in our hearts, which had been well nigh extinguished, not a spark of love of liberty or democracy, that cannot be, but love of a country or rulers, from whom previously we had received but little save neglect or persecution.
We also received assurance from Lieutenant Colonel Allen of the Mormon Battalion, that we should be safe and that it would be proper for us to stop on any Indian lands, while it was necessary, considering our hindrance in filling his command, and during the pleasure of the president, which we fully anticipate will be during all necessary time, and in view of all things here referred to and many more which the hurrying duties of the camp will not permit us to mention at this time.
1. Resolved, that as children of the United States we have not been disappointed in our anticipations of a brighter day and a more righteous administration in our endeavors for the canvass of his Excellency, James K. Polk to the presidency.
2. Resolved, that the thanks of this people be presented to President Polk for his friendly offer of transferring five hundred of our brethren to the land of their destination under command of Colonel Allen.
3. Resolved, that should we locate within the territory of the United States as we anticipate, we would esteem a territorial government of our own, as one of the richest boons of earth, and while we appreciate the Constitution of the United States as the most precious among the nations, we feel that we had rather retreat to the deserts, islands or mountain caves than consent to be ruled by governors and judges whose hands are drenched in the blood of innocence and virtue, who delight in injustice and oppression, and whose greatest glory is to promote the misery of their fellows, for their own aggrandizement, or lustful gratification.
4. Resolved, that we have heard from various sources and have the same confirmed by Colonel Kane that the friends of ex-Governor Boggs are endeavoring to make him governor of California, and that we as a people are bound to oppose said Boggs in every point and particular that shall tend to exalt him in any country where our lot may be cast, and that peace and Mormonism which are always undivided and Lilburn W. Boggs cannot dwell together, and we solicit the attention of President Polk to this important item in the future prosperity and welfare of the newly acquired territory of our glorious republic.
5. Resolved, that as soon as we are settled in the Great Basin we design to petition the United States for a territorial government, bounded on the north by the British and south by the Mexican dominions, and east and west by the summits of the Rocky and Cascade Mountains.
Having received the strongest assurances of assistance and protection from President Polk through our highly esteemed friend Colonel Kane, and that he will continue to use all constitutional powers at his disposal, for our good, regardless of popular clamor and cabinet intrigues, to establish us in a land where we can sustain our wives and children, to help us to a territorial government, so that we may dwell in peace under our own vine, and eat the fruit of our own labor, and that he will defend us against every aggression by the strong arm of twenty millions of freemen, and all their immense resources. And that he will ward off the scourge of oppression, the rod of tyranny, and the sword of death by all the means that God and his country have placed at his disposal.
6. Therefore, Resolved, that we have the fullest confidence in the friendly protection of President Polk, that our hearts are with him to do good, and sustain the best government of earth; that he may depend on our warmest gratitude and our cordial cooperation in all things that shall tend to exalt him, and our fellow creatures, and that our faith, prayers and blessings shall rest upon him, so long as he shall magnify those glorious principles he has espoused, which we trust will be eternally.
Done on the west bank of the Missouri river near Council Bluffs, Omaha nation, Aug. 9, 1846, in general council of the church aforesaid. 'Willard Richards, Clerk.' Brigham Young, President.'
P. S. Please give us your views of Colonel Allen's permit for us to stop on Indian lands, as soon as your convenience will permit. Direct to N. K. Whitney, Jon. H. Hale, and Daniel Spencer, Mormon camp near Council Bluffs, Fort Leavenworth, P. O.'" {1846-August 9-CHC 3:88-90}

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

Mormon History, Aug 9, 1846

At 5 PM the Brethren convened on the council ground'Prayer by councilor Reynolds Cahoon Pres Young stated the object of the council which was to lay before the Brethren for approval or disapproval the former nomination of the 12 men appointed to regulate the settling of the camp together with the designs of their Serving as High & City Council to regulate & settle or decide in matters of difference between all members of the camp & as time & the emergency of our situation would not allow us to call all the camp together'before necessity required them to enter on the duties of their office'we therefore present them before the conference Minets of the former meetings were related by the Historian Names of the council read objected by one man alone namely Bro Jacob Butterfield objected to counsellor C P Lott upon the ground that he had infringed upon his rights in Public by threatening to whip without cause & he wanted men who presided over him to be men who would protect him & Saints in all lawful measures'instead of infringing upon them Pres Young said that in as much as Bro Lott has injured you when the council is organized then we will deal with him J D Lee was called upon the read the minits of one of the meetings of the council & some items objected to by Pres Young which will be corrected at a convenient time on motion by Elder Kimble seconded by W Richards that Alpheus Cutler be the Pres of the committee & council apointed carried without a dissenting vote Reynolds Cahoon 2 C P Lott 3 A P Rockwood 4 Ezra Chase 5
Daniel Russell 6 Alanson Eldrige 7 Thomas Grover 8 Jedidiah M Grant 9 Samuel Russell 10
Winslow Farr 11 B L Clapp 12 on motion Horace S Eldrege was unamiously appointed Marshall of the camp'Pres Young proposed called our location Cutlers Park'unamiously agreed upon A letter of resolution to Pres J K Polk was read & unamiously adopted Pres Young said that at a former meeting it was decided that we form one camp'The resolution was adopted at the meeting'voted that we hearken to the council appointed as they are to dictate what would be best to do & that would superseed the necessity of so much borrowed trouble & thousands of questions that would be so frequently asked There is an other item that I wish to speak of at some future time with reference to sealings there will be no such things done until we build another temple I have understood that some of the 12 have held forth an idea that such things would be attended to in the wilderness but I say that no man hint such things from this time fourth for we will not attend to Sealings until another temple is built Some lost property was reported'after which the council was called to order'closed by Elder Kimble Bro J Scott Wm Swapp Col Kane & others were remembered before the Lord for recovery of their health about 7 eve'adjourned About 8 eve Pres Young Richards Woodruff Father John Smith (who had arrived in camp about noon) Rockwood myself & others met in council in A P
Rockwood s Tent passed off the evening in conversation on various subjects mostly upon the organization & arranging the camp also correcting History'Adjourned at 10 minutes past 11.

[source: John D. Lee, Diary]