The Apostasy in Kirtland 1836-1838The Apostasy in Kirtland 1836-1838

18371837 was the worst year of apostasy this Church has ever known. was the worst year of apostasy this Church has ever known.

What is an apostateWhat is an apostate?? ““A traitorA traitor””

Five major problems in KirtlandFive major problems in Kirtland::

1. 1. Economic distressEconomic distress: :

Many people were buying on credit and not paying it back. Joseph Many people were buying on credit and not paying it back. Joseph had problems because of his trusting heart. He purchased $60,000 had problems because of his trusting heart. He purchased $60,000 worth of goods (back east) to set up his store to provide an income for worth of goods (back east) to set up his store to provide an income for his family. He kept giving things to people on credit. As a result he his family. He kept giving things to people on credit. As a result he went bankrupt. He was not a good business man. went bankrupt. He was not a good business man.

2. 2. Speculation in Kirtland on land salesSpeculation in Kirtland on land sales: :

In 1836-37 In 1836-37 land sales increased 800%land sales increased 800%. People lost everything. Two . People lost everything. Two members of the twelve were involved. They bought land, homes, etc. members of the twelve were involved. They bought land, homes, etc. and sold it to members gathering in Kirtland and then called on the and sold it to members gathering in Kirtland and then called on the note when the depression hit. The two members of the twelve were note when the depression hit. The two members of the twelve were John F. Boynton and Lyman Johnson. Many of the Latter-day Saints John F. Boynton and Lyman Johnson. Many of the Latter-day Saints became wealthy on paper because of the value of their properties; became wealthy on paper because of the value of their properties; however, this wealth never materialized.however, this wealth never materialized.

3. 3. PridePride::

There was a strong desire by some to become wealthy which led to There was a strong desire by some to become wealthy which led to criticism of the Prophet. Associated issues such as immorality criticism of the Prophet. Associated issues such as immorality centered around the rising questions about plural marriage. centered around the rising questions about plural marriage.

In 1837 the United States experienced the worst depression up to that In 1837 the United States experienced the worst depression up to that timetime. The state of New York alone lost $100,000,000. The problems . The state of New York alone lost $100,000,000. The problems were nation wide. Members who were wealthy found themselves were nation wide. Members who were wealthy found themselves poor. John Tanner and William Huntington were two families who poor. John Tanner and William Huntington were two families who lost everything. lost everything.

4. 4. The failure of the Kirtland SocietyThe failure of the Kirtland Society: :

Joseph was the treasurer and Sidney was the President. Oliver went Joseph was the treasurer and Sidney was the President. Oliver went to Philadelphia to get plates made in order to make bank notes. Orson to Philadelphia to get plates made in order to make bank notes. Orson Hyde went to Columbia to meet with the legislature in order to obtain Hyde went to Columbia to meet with the legislature in order to obtain permission to open a bank. permission to open a bank.

Permission was refused. Permission was refused. As a result the bank was called the Kirtland As a result the bank was called the Kirtland Anti-Banking Safety SocietyAnti-Banking Safety Society. . The Church was sued over it and lostThe Church was sued over it and lost. .

Joseph fled to Missouri in January 1838 because of persecution. Joseph fled to Missouri in January 1838 because of persecution. Warren Parrish was the cashier when John F. Boynton and Lyman Warren Parrish was the cashier when John F. Boynton and Lyman Johnson took over $100,000 from the bank. When Joseph learned of Johnson took over $100,000 from the bank. When Joseph learned of it he immediately resigned. it he immediately resigned.

Boynton was excommunicated from the Church and never returned. Boynton was excommunicated from the Church and never returned. Lyman Johnson and Warren Parrish both followed Boynton’s lead.Lyman Johnson and Warren Parrish both followed Boynton’s lead.

5. 5. ApostasyApostasy::

In May of 1837, thirty prominent men met in the Kirtland Temple to In May of 1837, thirty prominent men met in the Kirtland Temple to discuss replacing Joseph Smith as President of the Church. Joseph discuss replacing Joseph Smith as President of the Church. Joseph was not in Kirtland because he was serving a mission in Michiganwas not in Kirtland because he was serving a mission in Michigan..

Most of the men wanted Most of the men wanted David WhitmerDavid Whitmer to be the new President. to be the new President.

The nomination fed David Whitmer’s ego and was probably the cause The nomination fed David Whitmer’s ego and was probably the cause of him later leaving the Church. of him later leaving the Church.

The only ones in that meeting who favored keeping the Prophet The only ones in that meeting who favored keeping the Prophet Joseph were Sidney Rigdon, John Smith, and Brigham Young. Joseph were Sidney Rigdon, John Smith, and Brigham Young.

Brigham told them that if they were to leave the Church they would Brigham told them that if they were to leave the Church they would cut the thread that ties them to God and they would sink their souls to cut the thread that ties them to God and they would sink their souls to hellhell..

Those who turn against the Church do so to play to their own Those who turn against the Church do so to play to their own private gallery, but when, one day, the applause had died private gallery, but when, one day, the applause had died down and the cheering has stopped, they will face a smaller down and the cheering has stopped, they will face a smaller audience, the judgment bar of God (Neal A. Maxwell, audience, the judgment bar of God (Neal A. Maxwell, Things Things As They Really AreAs They Really Are, 90)., 90).

Occasionally a member of the Church who is weak in the faith Occasionally a member of the Church who is weak in the faith struggles with his other questions and circumstances and loses struggles with his other questions and circumstances and loses the battle. Those few members who desert the cause are the battle. Those few members who desert the cause are abandoning an oasis to search for water in the desert. Some of abandoning an oasis to search for water in the desert. Some of them will not just wander off but become obsessed critics them will not just wander off but become obsessed critics occupying offices in the “great and spacious building,” that occupying offices in the “great and spacious building,” that large but third-class hotel (Neal A. Maxwell, “large but third-class hotel (Neal A. Maxwell, “Not My Will But Not My Will But ThineThine,” 28).,” 28).

The Kirtland Safety Society Bank sold its first stock in October 1836. The Kirtland Safety Society Bank sold its first stock in October 1836. One year later, in November 1837, the bank closed.One year later, in November 1837, the bank closed.

Some two hundred shareholders who had bought stock in the bank Some two hundred shareholders who had bought stock in the bank suffered losses (Joseph Smith had no control over those factors).suffered losses (Joseph Smith had no control over those factors).

Founding a bank in Kirtland in 1836 was a logical business decision. Founding a bank in Kirtland in 1836 was a logical business decision. Other communities in the area, such as Ashtabula, Warren, and Ravenna, Other communities in the area, such as Ashtabula, Warren, and Ravenna, while not as large as Kirtland, had banks.while not as large as Kirtland, had banks.

In 1837 the Church’s debt probably exceeded fifty thousand dollars.In 1837 the Church’s debt probably exceeded fifty thousand dollars.

In all, two hundred people invested, with an average investment of In all, two hundred people invested, with an average investment of twelve dollars (which represented about one-week’s income in 1840). twelve dollars (which represented about one-week’s income in 1840). About twenty thousand dollars was invested in the bankAbout twenty thousand dollars was invested in the bank (Hill, Rooker, (Hill, Rooker, and Wimmer, and Wimmer, Kirtland EconomyKirtland Economy, 61), 61)

On November 2, 1836 Sidney Rigdon was elected President and Joseph On November 2, 1836 Sidney Rigdon was elected President and Joseph Smith, cashier.Smith, cashier.

Oliver Cowdery went to Philadelphia to procure dies and plates for bank Oliver Cowdery went to Philadelphia to procure dies and plates for bank bills. The name Kirtland Safety Society Bank appeared on the notes bills. The name Kirtland Safety Society Bank appeared on the notes because it was assumed that the state of Ohio would grant a charter.because it was assumed that the state of Ohio would grant a charter.

Orson Hyde went to Columbus, the Ohio state capital with a petition for Orson Hyde went to Columbus, the Ohio state capital with a petition for an act of incorporation. He reported that the legislature raised frivolous an act of incorporation. He reported that the legislature raised frivolous excuses because they were Mormons and refused banking privileges excuses because they were Mormons and refused banking privileges ((HCHC, 2:468)., 2:468).

In January of 1837 they decided on a new course, the Kirtland Safety In January of 1837 they decided on a new course, the Kirtland Safety Society Anti-Banking Company.Society Anti-Banking Company.

Although forming a bank without a state charter may seem unusual to Although forming a bank without a state charter may seem unusual to one today, it was not at all unusual in 1837.one today, it was not at all unusual in 1837.

““Anti-banks,” were operating not only in Ohio but also in surrounding Anti-banks,” were operating not only in Ohio but also in surrounding states, including Michigan and Pennsylvania, and anti-bank conventions states, including Michigan and Pennsylvania, and anti-bank conventions were held in counties near Kirtland.were held in counties near Kirtland.

In the first few days of operation, bills in one, two, and three dollar In the first few days of operation, bills in one, two, and three dollar denominations were issued but the three dollar bill was the only on denominations were issued but the three dollar bill was the only on which the phrase “Anti-Banking Co.” was successfully stamped.which the phrase “Anti-Banking Co.” was successfully stamped.

With heavy demand for speci (gold, silver, or bills or notes from other With heavy demand for speci (gold, silver, or bills or notes from other institutions) the bank’s liquid reserves were wiped out. Although the institutions) the bank’s liquid reserves were wiped out. Although the estimated reserves were about fifteen thousand dollars, which should estimated reserves were about fifteen thousand dollars, which should have been sufficient, there was a run on the bank.have been sufficient, there was a run on the bank.

In June of 1837, ten stockholders, including the Prophet, transferred In June of 1837, ten stockholders, including the Prophet, transferred their stock to Oliver Granger and Jared Carter and withdrew from the their stock to Oliver Granger and Jared Carter and withdrew from the bank.bank.

Joseph Smith suffered overwhelming financial losses and Joseph Smith suffered overwhelming financial losses and embarrassments from the bank’s failure. He had personally borrowed embarrassments from the bank’s failure. He had personally borrowed money to keep the bank open, so when the bank closed, his financial money to keep the bank open, so when the bank closed, his financial losses were greater than those of most investors; in fact, he suffered losses were greater than those of most investors; in fact, he suffered more financial losses than all other investors except onemore financial losses than all other investors except one. . His personal His personal investment in bank stock totaled $1,360investment in bank stock totaled $1,360. He had borrowed money, . He had borrowed money, $4,250, from two banks. In early 1837, in an attempt to repay the loans, $4,250, from two banks. In early 1837, in an attempt to repay the loans, he sold $5,100 worth of land within a three-month period of time (he sold $5,100 worth of land within a three-month period of time (HCHC, , 2:497).2:497).

Financial mistakes by Church leaders were unintentional, they may have Financial mistakes by Church leaders were unintentional, they may have been errors of the head and not the heart. In October 1837: Joseph and been errors of the head and not the heart. In October 1837: Joseph and Sidney go to trial. Each was found guilty and fined one thousand dollars Sidney go to trial. Each was found guilty and fined one thousand dollars plus costs. Joseph and Sidney appealed the fine and felt that the fine was plus costs. Joseph and Sidney appealed the fine and felt that the fine was initiated by influential enemies of the churchinitiated by influential enemies of the church. .

In November of 1837 the bank closed it’s doors.In November of 1837 the bank closed it’s doors.

It has been estimated that the total losses were a little over forty It has been estimated that the total losses were a little over forty thousand dollarsthousand dollars. . The average loss, therefore, would have been about The average loss, therefore, would have been about one hundred dollars to two hundred dollars, or about one-fourth to one-one hundred dollars to two hundred dollars, or about one-fourth to one-half of an individual’s yearly income in 1837 Kirtlandhalf of an individual’s yearly income in 1837 Kirtland ( (JDJD, 11:11)., 11:11).

Even after have been forced to leave, Joseph spent considerable effort, Even after have been forced to leave, Joseph spent considerable effort, until his death, to repay the notes and loans. The fact that he and other until his death, to repay the notes and loans. The fact that he and other founders of the bank repaid the bulk of their debts, even when distant founders of the bank repaid the bulk of their debts, even when distant from Kirtland, points out their desire to maintain their integrityfrom Kirtland, points out their desire to maintain their integrity..

Just before his resignation from the bank, Joseph said, “Just before his resignation from the bank, Joseph said, “It seemed as It seemed as though all the powers of earth and hell were combining their influence in though all the powers of earth and hell were combining their influence in an especial manner to overthrow the Church at once, and make a final an especial manner to overthrow the Church at once, and make a final endend..

Benjamin Johnson (19 years old) called this time in Kirtland “the first Benjamin Johnson (19 years old) called this time in Kirtland “the first great apostasy” and regarded it as a test he had to pass.great apostasy” and regarded it as a test he had to pass.

From the Quorum of the Twelve fell four of the brightest: From the Quorum of the Twelve fell four of the brightest: William William McLellin, Luke and Lyman Johnson and John Boyington; of the First McLellin, Luke and Lyman Johnson and John Boyington; of the First Presidency, F.G. Williams; the three witnesses to the Book of Mormon, Presidency, F.G. Williams; the three witnesses to the Book of Mormon, Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer and Martin Harris, Joseph Coe and Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer and Martin Harris, Joseph Coe and many others who apostatized or became enemies to the Prophetmany others who apostatized or became enemies to the Prophet..

Approximately one-third of the leaders appear to have succumbed to Approximately one-third of the leaders appear to have succumbed to apostasy, and they drew many others away with themapostasy, and they drew many others away with them. .

About two hundred to three hundred person apostatized, representing a About two hundred to three hundred person apostatized, representing a loss of 10-15 percent of the Kirtland membershiploss of 10-15 percent of the Kirtland membership. . About one-third of About one-third of the Church leaders were either excommunicated, disfellowshiped, or the Church leaders were either excommunicated, disfellowshiped, or removed from their Church callingsremoved from their Church callings..

Allegations about Joseph SmithAllegations about Joseph Smith

Warren Parrish said, Warren Parrish said,

““Joseph and Sidney lie by revelation, Joseph and Sidney lie by revelation, swindle by revelation, cheat and defraud swindle by revelation, cheat and defraud by revelation, run away by revelation, and by revelation, run away by revelation, and if they don’t mend their ways, I fear they if they don’t mend their ways, I fear they will at last be damned by revelation.”will at last be damned by revelation.”

Warren Cowdery accused the Prophet Warren Cowdery accused the Prophet of “Making himself a monarch, of “Making himself a monarch, absolute and despotic, and ourselves absolute and despotic, and ourselves objects, slaves or phoning objects, slaves or phoning sycophants” (self-seeking flatterers).sycophants” (self-seeking flatterers).

Parley P. Pratt charged the Prophet with Parley P. Pratt charged the Prophet with “covetousness, and taking advantage of his “covetousness, and taking advantage of his brothers by undue religious influence.”brothers by undue religious influence.”

Parley approached his convert – John Taylor Parley approached his convert – John Taylor on the street and complained bitterly about on the street and complained bitterly about Joseph Smith. John Taylor said, “Joseph Smith. John Taylor said, “Why Why Parley, I’m surprised at you, when you came Parley, I’m surprised at you, when you came to Canada you told me Joseph was a prophet to Canada you told me Joseph was a prophet of God and the Holy Ghost had borne of God and the Holy Ghost had borne witness to you of that truthwitness to you of that truth. . Therefore, I Therefore, I suggest that you repentsuggest that you repent!” !”

I’m sure John Taylor thanked Parley P. Pratt for I’m sure John Taylor thanked Parley P. Pratt for what happened in Canada, but I think Parley will what happened in Canada, but I think Parley will thank John Taylor for eternity!thank John Taylor for eternity!

There are only two members of the Twelve who There are only two members of the Twelve who are not out of harmony with the Prophet and they are not out of harmony with the Prophet and they are are Brigham Young and Heber C. KimballBrigham Young and Heber C. Kimball. Even . Even David W. Patten was out of harmony for a short David W. Patten was out of harmony for a short time. When David Patten returned from his time. When David Patten returned from his mission he was in the home of Warren Parrish mission he was in the home of Warren Parrish and was soured against the Prophet. He then and was soured against the Prophet. He then went to the home of Joseph and complained that went to the home of Joseph and complained that Joseph was “abusive.”Joseph was “abusive.”

Without warning Joseph reared back and slapped him (David W. Without warning Joseph reared back and slapped him (David W. Patton) as hard as he could. He then kicked him out of his house and Patton) as hard as he could. He then kicked him out of his house and sent him down the path to the gate. sent him down the path to the gate.

David later said it was the best thing that had ever happened to him David later said it was the best thing that had ever happened to him (Thanks, I needed that). (Thanks, I needed that).

Brigham Young said about those days, Brigham Young said about those days,

He doubted the Prophet for about 30 seconds and then he told the He doubted the Prophet for about 30 seconds and then he told the devil to keep his nose in his own businessdevil to keep his nose in his own business. .

Remember, when Brigham Young died, his last three words were Remember, when Brigham Young died, his last three words were “Joseph, Joseph, Joseph.” “Joseph, Joseph, Joseph.”

Brigham was loyal to the Prophet.Brigham was loyal to the Prophet.

Orson Pratt and Lyman Johnson, both apostles, charged the Orson Pratt and Lyman Johnson, both apostles, charged the Prophet with lying and misrepresentation, extortion and for Prophet with lying and misrepresentation, extortion and for speaking disrespectfully about Orson’s brother behind his speaking disrespectfully about Orson’s brother behind his back.back.

In 1837 Joseph was involved in 18 different lawsuitsIn 1837 Joseph was involved in 18 different lawsuits. .

Persecution got so bad that in January 1838 he had to fleePersecution got so bad that in January 1838 he had to flee. .

In one of the lawsuits he was tried for murder. In one of the lawsuits he was tried for murder.

Nothing was ever proven against Joseph.Nothing was ever proven against Joseph.

Conflict between the High Priests and 70’sConflict between the High Priests and 70’s!!

The argument was who was the greatest in the The argument was who was the greatest in the Kingdom of GodKingdom of God? ?

Some in the groups had been ordained both as Some in the groups had been ordained both as Seventies and High Priests. They said they were Seventies and High Priests. They said they were better than men in either group because they held better than men in either group because they held both offices. both offices.

There was a fist fight between Jared Carter and There was a fist fight between Jared Carter and Benjamin Winchester concerning itBenjamin Winchester concerning it..

Seventy Quorums in the Stakes were discontinued in Seventy Quorums in the Stakes were discontinued in 1986.1986.

On April 6On April 6thth, 1837 Joseph called all the High , 1837 Joseph called all the High Priests and the Seventies into a meeting in the Priests and the Seventies into a meeting in the Kirtland Temple. He said, “How many of you Kirtland Temple. He said, “How many of you are ordained a High Priest?” Those who were are ordained a High Priest?” Those who were also ordained Seventies were released from the also ordained Seventies were released from the Quorum of Seventy and told to take their place Quorum of Seventy and told to take their place with the High Priests.with the High Priests.

The problem with High Priests and Seventies The problem with High Priests and Seventies was resolved in was resolved in 19611961 when David O. McKay when David O. McKay ordained the First Council of the Seventy as ordained the First Council of the Seventy as High Priests. Some people in the Church were High Priests. Some people in the Church were offended then too. offended then too.

Mission to EnglandMission to England

In June of In June of 18371837 Joseph was in the Kirtland Temple Joseph was in the Kirtland Temple when he leaned over to Heber C. Kimball and told when he leaned over to Heber C. Kimball and told him that it was time for him to go on a mission to him that it was time for him to go on a mission to England. England.

Heber asked him why? Joseph’s answer was to Heber asked him why? Joseph’s answer was to ““save this Churchsave this Church.” .”

He then asked if he could take Brigham Young with He then asked if he could take Brigham Young with him to which Joseph said no. him to which Joseph said no.

Heber C. Kimball Was Suffering From Excruciating Back PainHeber C. Kimball Was Suffering From Excruciating Back Pain::

A short time previous to my husband’s stating…he was A short time previous to my husband’s stating…he was prostrated on his bed from a stitch in his back, which suddenly prostrated on his bed from a stitch in his back, which suddenly seized him while chopping and drawing wood for his family, seized him while chopping and drawing wood for his family, so that he could not stir a limb without exclaiming, from the so that he could not stir a limb without exclaiming, from the severe-ness of the pain. Joseph Smith hearing of it came to severe-ness of the pain. Joseph Smith hearing of it came to see him, bringing Oliver Cowdery and Bishop Partridge with see him, bringing Oliver Cowdery and Bishop Partridge with him. They prayed for and blessed him, Joseph being the him. They prayed for and blessed him, Joseph being the mouth, beseeching God to raise him up. He then took him by mouth, beseeching God to raise him up. He then took him by the right hand, in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, and by the right hand, in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, and by virtue of the holy priesthood vested in me, I command you, in virtue of the holy priesthood vested in me, I command you, in the name of Jesus Christ, to rise, and be thou made whole.” the name of Jesus Christ, to rise, and be thou made whole.” He arose from his bed, put on his clothes, and started with He arose from his bed, put on his clothes, and started with them, and went up to the temple, and felt no more of the pain them, and went up to the temple, and felt no more of the pain afterwards (Tullidge, afterwards (Tullidge, Women of MormondomWomen of Mormondom, 113)., 113).

Before Elder Kimball left for England, Joseph Before Elder Kimball left for England, Joseph Smith had a vision, which he described to his Smith had a vision, which he described to his associate: “I saw the 12, apostles of the Lamb, associate: “I saw the 12, apostles of the Lamb, who are now upon the earth who hold the keys who are now upon the earth who hold the keys of this last ministry, in foreign lands, standing of this last ministry, in foreign lands, standing together in a circle much fatigued, with their together in a circle much fatigued, with their clothes tattered and feet swollen, with their eyes clothes tattered and feet swollen, with their eyes cast downward, and Jesus standing in their cast downward, and Jesus standing in their midst, and they did not behold him, the Savior midst, and they did not behold him, the Savior looked upon them and wept (Joseph Smith, looked upon them and wept (Joseph Smith, Diary, in Jessee, Diary, in Jessee, The Personal Writings of The Personal Writings of Joseph SmithJoseph Smith, 146)., 146).

This was the first overseas mission for the This was the first overseas mission for the Church. Church.

Orson Hyde walked into the room and Orson Hyde walked into the room and was so touched by what he felt that he was so touched by what he felt that he repented right then and there and asked if repented right then and there and asked if he could go as well. Joseph granted him he could go as well. Joseph granted him permission.permission.

President Marsh who was President of the President Marsh who was President of the Twelve was offended because he thought Twelve was offended because he thought he should be the one who opened up he should be the one who opened up England for missionary work.England for missionary work.

The following were called to goThe following were called to go::

Willard Richards, Levi Richards (Levi read the Book of Willard Richards, Levi Richards (Levi read the Book of Mormon twice in 10 days.Mormon twice in 10 days.

Joseph Fielding, John Goodson, John Snyder and Isaac Joseph Fielding, John Goodson, John Snyder and Isaac Russell.Russell.

The men introduced their family members in England to The men introduced their family members in England to the apostles and the door was opened. the apostles and the door was opened.

Heber C. Kimball was the senior apostle on the mission.Heber C. Kimball was the senior apostle on the mission.

On the way over to England there was a child on On the way over to England there was a child on board the ship that the ship surgeon had given up on board the ship that the ship surgeon had given up on as dead. as dead.

Heber C. Kimball took the child into his arms, Heber C. Kimball took the child into his arms, blessed the child and healed the child. It had a great blessed the child and healed the child. It had a great impact on those who were on board.impact on those who were on board.

After arriving in England, Heber jumped into a little After arriving in England, Heber jumped into a little boat and from there onto the docks and was the first boat and from there onto the docks and was the first one to put his feet on British soil.one to put his feet on British soil.

Heber C. Kimball saw a banner positioned over one of the Heber C. Kimball saw a banner positioned over one of the homes that said, “homes that said, “Truth will PrevailTruth will Prevail” and saw it as a good ” and saw it as a good omen. They started their mission and soon had nine people omen. They started their mission and soon had nine people to baptize.to baptize.

That morning in Preston, the evil one made himself That morning in Preston, the evil one made himself manifest by trying to destroy the missionariesmanifest by trying to destroy the missionaries. .

It was recorded by Wilford Woodruff and George A. Smith It was recorded by Wilford Woodruff and George A. Smith that when Isaac Russell left Canada, a legion of evil spirits that when Isaac Russell left Canada, a legion of evil spirits left with him. They said that the evil spirits had followed left with him. They said that the evil spirits had followed him to England. Night after night he would walk the decks him to England. Night after night he would walk the decks of the ship in great discomfort as the evil spirits would of the ship in great discomfort as the evil spirits would torment him. torment him.

Heber C. Kimball Overcomes the Power of the AdversaryHeber C. Kimball Overcomes the Power of the Adversary

(Preston, England --- July 1837, as related by Heber C. Kimball)(Preston, England --- July 1837, as related by Heber C. Kimball)

On Sunday, July 30On Sunday, July 30thth, 1837, about daybreak, Elder Isaac Russell (who had been appointed to preach , 1837, about daybreak, Elder Isaac Russell (who had been appointed to preach on the obelisk in Preston square that day), who slept with Elder Richards in Wilfred Street, came up on the obelisk in Preston square that day), who slept with Elder Richards in Wilfred Street, came up to the third story, where Elder Hyde and myself were sleeping, and called out, “Brother Kimball, I to the third story, where Elder Hyde and myself were sleeping, and called out, “Brother Kimball, I want you should get up and pray for me that I may be delivered from the evil spirits that are want you should get up and pray for me that I may be delivered from the evil spirits that are tormenting me to such a degree that I feel I cannot live long, unless I obtain relief.”tormenting me to such a degree that I feel I cannot live long, unless I obtain relief.”

I had been sleeping on the back of the bed. I immediately arose, slipped off at the foot of the bed, I had been sleeping on the back of the bed. I immediately arose, slipped off at the foot of the bed, and passed around to where he was. Elder Hyde threw his feet out, and sat up in the bed, and we and passed around to where he was. Elder Hyde threw his feet out, and sat up in the bed, and we laid hands on him, I being mouth, and prayed that the Lord would have mercy on him, and rebuked laid hands on him, I being mouth, and prayed that the Lord would have mercy on him, and rebuked the devil.the devil.

While thus engaged, I was struck with great force by While thus engaged, I was struck with great force by some invisible power, and fell senseless on the some invisible power, and fell senseless on the floor. The first thing I recollected was being floor. The first thing I recollected was being supported by Elders Hyde and Richards, who were supported by Elders Hyde and Richards, who were praying for me; Elder Richards having followed praying for me; Elder Richards having followed Russell up to my room. Elder Hyde and Richards Russell up to my room. Elder Hyde and Richards then assisted me to get on the bed, but my agony then assisted me to get on the bed, but my agony was so great that he could not endure it, and I arose, was so great that he could not endure it, and I arose, bowed my knees and prayed. I then arose and sat up bowed my knees and prayed. I then arose and sat up on the bed, when a vision was opened to our minds, on the bed, when a vision was opened to our minds, and we could distinctly see the evil spirits, who and we could distinctly see the evil spirits, who foamed and gnashed their teeth at us.foamed and gnashed their teeth at us.

When Heber C. Kimball placed his hands on his When Heber C. Kimball placed his hands on his head, he was knocked forcibly to the floor. He tried head, he was knocked forcibly to the floor. He tried again and this time was knocked out. Heber was again and this time was knocked out. Heber was laying on the bed trying to re-cooperate when he laying on the bed trying to re-cooperate when he saw a legion of evil spirits coming at him. saw a legion of evil spirits coming at him.

He said they had whips, daggers, knives and pistols He said they had whips, daggers, knives and pistols in their handsin their hands. . He said they used every filthy, He said they used every filthy, vulgar expression ever imaginablevulgar expression ever imaginable. . He said they He said they would come right up to their faces and spit at them would come right up to their faces and spit at them and gnash their teeth in hatredand gnash their teeth in hatred..

We gazed upon them about an hour and a half (by Willard’s watch). We gazed upon them about an hour and a half (by Willard’s watch). We were not looking toward the window, but towards the wall. Space We were not looking toward the window, but towards the wall. Space appeared before us, and we saw the devils coming in legions, with appeared before us, and we saw the devils coming in legions, with their leaders, who came within a few feet of us. They came towards their leaders, who came within a few feet of us. They came towards us like armies rushing to battle. They appeared to be men of full us like armies rushing to battle. They appeared to be men of full stature, possessing every form and feature of men in the flesh, who stature, possessing every form and feature of men in the flesh, who were angry and desperate; and I shall never forget the vindictive were angry and desperate; and I shall never forget the vindictive malignity depicted on their countenances as they looked me in the malignity depicted on their countenances as they looked me in the eye; and any attempt to paint the scene which then presented itself, or eye; and any attempt to paint the scene which then presented itself, or portray their malice and enmity, would be in vain. I perspired portray their malice and enmity, would be in vain. I perspired exceedingly, my clothes becoming as wet as if I had been taken out of exceedingly, my clothes becoming as wet as if I had been taken out of the river. I felt excessive pain, and was in the feelings of horror; yet the river. I felt excessive pain, and was in the feelings of horror; yet by it I learned the power of the adversary, his enmity against the by it I learned the power of the adversary, his enmity against the servants of God, and got some understanding of the invisible world. servants of God, and got some understanding of the invisible world. We distinctly heard those spirits talk and express their wrath and We distinctly heard those spirits talk and express their wrath and hellish designs against us that day.”hellish designs against us that day.”

Elder Hyde’s supplemental description of that fearful scene Elder Hyde’s supplemental description of that fearful scene is as follows, taken from a letter addressed to President is as follows, taken from a letter addressed to President Kimball:Kimball:

““Every circumstance that occurred at that scene of devils is Every circumstance that occurred at that scene of devils is just as fresh in my recollection at this moment as it was at just as fresh in my recollection at this moment as it was at the moment of its occurrence, and will ever remain so. After the moment of its occurrence, and will ever remain so. After you were overcome by them and had fallen, their awful rush you were overcome by them and had fallen, their awful rush upon me with knives, threats, imprecations and hellish upon me with knives, threats, imprecations and hellish grins, amply convinced me that they were not friends of grins, amply convinced me that they were not friends of mine. While you were apparently senseless and lifeless on mine. While you were apparently senseless and lifeless on the floor and upon the bed (after we had laid you there), I the floor and upon the bed (after we had laid you there), I stood between you and the devils and fought them and stood between you and the devils and fought them and contended with them face to face, until they began to contended with them face to face, until they began to diminish in number and to retreat from the room.diminish in number and to retreat from the room.

The last imp that left turned round to me as he was The last imp that left turned round to me as he was going out and said, as if to apologize, and appease going out and said, as if to apologize, and appease my determined opposition to them, I never said my determined opposition to them, I never said anything against you! I replied to him thus: It anything against you! I replied to him thus: It matters not to me whether you have or have not; you matters not to me whether you have or have not; you are a liar from the beginning! In the name of Jesus are a liar from the beginning! In the name of Jesus Christ, depart! He immediately left, and the room Christ, depart! He immediately left, and the room was clear. That closed the scene of devils for that was clear. That closed the scene of devils for that time.”time.”

Heber and the others gazed upon them about an hour and a half. They Heber and the others gazed upon them about an hour and a half. They saw the devils coming in legions, with their leaders, who came within saw the devils coming in legions, with their leaders, who came within a few feet of them. They were like armies rushing to battle.a few feet of them. They were like armies rushing to battle.

They appeared to be men of full stature, possessing every form and They appeared to be men of full stature, possessing every form and feature of men in the flesh, who were angry and desperate. Heber feature of men in the flesh, who were angry and desperate. Heber said he would never forget the vindictive malignity depicted on their said he would never forget the vindictive malignity depicted on their countenances as they looked him in the eye. He said that any attempt countenances as they looked him in the eye. He said that any attempt to paint the scene which presented itself or portray their malice and to paint the scene which presented itself or portray their malice and enmity would be in vain.enmity would be in vain.

Heber perspired exceedingly, his clothes becoming as wet as he had Heber perspired exceedingly, his clothes becoming as wet as he had taken them out of the river. He felt excessive pain, and was in distress taken them out of the river. He felt excessive pain, and was in distress for some time.for some time.

Years later, narrating the experience of that awful morning to the Years later, narrating the experience of that awful morning to the Prophet Joseph, Heber asked him what it all meant, and whether there Prophet Joseph, Heber asked him what it all meant, and whether there was anything wrong with him that he should have such a was anything wrong with him that he should have such a manifestation. “No Brother Heber,” he replied, “at the time you were manifestation. “No Brother Heber,” he replied, “at the time you were nigh unto the Lord; there was only a veil between you and Him, but nigh unto the Lord; there was only a veil between you and Him, but you could not see Him. When I heard of it, it gave me great joy, for I you could not see Him. When I heard of it, it gave me great joy, for I then knew that the work of God had taken root in that land. then knew that the work of God had taken root in that land. It was It was this that caused the devil to make a struggle to kill youthis that caused the devil to make a struggle to kill you.”.”

Joseph then related some of his own experience, in many contest he Joseph then related some of his own experience, in many contest he had had with the evil one, and said: “had had with the evil one, and said: “The nearer a person approaches The nearer a person approaches the Lord, a greater power will be manifested by the adversary to the Lord, a greater power will be manifested by the adversary to prevent the accomplishment of His purposesprevent the accomplishment of His purposes.”.”

An answer this, for the unbelieving and sophistical, who argue, with An answer this, for the unbelieving and sophistical, who argue, with the shallow reasoning of Job’s comforters, that they have sinned most the shallow reasoning of Job’s comforters, that they have sinned most who suffer most, and are ever ready to ascribe spiritual who suffer most, and are ever ready to ascribe spiritual manifestations, good or evil, to madness, drunkenness or imbecility. manifestations, good or evil, to madness, drunkenness or imbecility. It is needful, we are told, to experience opposites, to be enabled to It is needful, we are told, to experience opposites, to be enabled to choose intelligently between them; and to those who have this choose intelligently between them; and to those who have this experience, and who “take the Holy Spirit for their guide,” the way to experience, and who “take the Holy Spirit for their guide,” the way to judge is as plain “as the daylight from the dark nightjudge is as plain “as the daylight from the dark night.”.”

So was it with the Apostles and Elders in Preston, after their terrible So was it with the Apostles and Elders in Preston, after their terrible encounter with the powers of evil, at Sunday day-break, July 30, encounter with the powers of evil, at Sunday day-break, July 30, 1837. The Spirit of the Lord, with peace and joy that “passeth 1837. The Spirit of the Lord, with peace and joy that “passeth understanding,” dawned with the Sabbath sun upon their souls. understanding,” dawned with the Sabbath sun upon their souls. They They had tasted of the bitter, and would thenceforth more fully know the had tasted of the bitter, and would thenceforth more fully know the sweetsweet; encompassed about by the “horror of darkness,’ they hailed ; encompassed about by the “horror of darkness,’ they hailed with ecstasy till then unknown, the glory of the golden morn (with ecstasy till then unknown, the glory of the golden morn (Life of Life of Heber C. KimballHeber C. Kimball, Orson F. Whitney, 129-32)., Orson F. Whitney, 129-32).

““A Marriage ProposalA Marriage Proposal””

One day Heber came up to Willard Richards and said, “Willard, I just One day Heber came up to Willard Richards and said, “Willard, I just baptized your wife for you.” baptized your wife for you.”

Her name was Janetta Richards. Willard was certainly interested. Her name was Janetta Richards. Willard was certainly interested.

Willard wrote to Janetta and said, Willard wrote to Janetta and said,

““Dear Janetta Richards, I have always liked the last name Richards Dear Janetta Richards, I have always liked the last name Richards and would not want to change itand would not want to change it. . How do you feel about itHow do you feel about it?” ?”

She wrote back and said, “She wrote back and said, “I also have always liked the name Richards I also have always liked the name Richards and I don’t think I would ever like to change itand I don’t think I would ever like to change it.” .”

That was the proposal and the acceptanceThat was the proposal and the acceptance. .

(See, you guys make everything too difficult!)(See, you guys make everything too difficult!)

Another family brought into the Church by Heber was named the Another family brought into the Church by Heber was named the Smithies. They had a Smithies. They had a baby girlbaby girl who was ill and it looked like she who was ill and it looked like she would not survive. would not survive.

Heber blessed her and promised that she would live to be a faithful Heber blessed her and promised that she would live to be a faithful member of the Church and a mother in Israelmember of the Church and a mother in Israel. .

She was healed and later became a wife to the man who had blessed She was healed and later became a wife to the man who had blessed her as a babyher as a baby..

She was the last wife of Heber C. KimballShe was the last wife of Heber C. Kimball. . They lived in Utah and They lived in Utah and had five children togetherhad five children together..

Heber also baptized a man name Alexander Nichols who was a Heber also baptized a man name Alexander Nichols who was a German Jew who later fixed Joseph’s broken tooth in Nauvoo. German Jew who later fixed Joseph’s broken tooth in Nauvoo.

Alexander Nichols later testified in the Salt Lake Valley that he saw Alexander Nichols later testified in the Salt Lake Valley that he saw the Savior.the Savior.

After 10 months in England, the brethren After 10 months in England, the brethren began to return home. began to return home.

Joseph Fielding and Willard Richards stayed Joseph Fielding and Willard Richards stayed in England and were left in charge of the in England and were left in charge of the mission along with another convert named mission along with another convert named William Clayton.William Clayton.

Parley P. Pratt to CanadaParley P. Pratt to Canada::

He hesitated to go because he was in debt, and Thankful, his wife, was He hesitated to go because he was in debt, and Thankful, his wife, was chronically ill. Parley recounts what happened next: I had retired to rest chronically ill. Parley recounts what happened next: I had retired to rest one evening at an early hour, and was pondering my future course, when one evening at an early hour, and was pondering my future course, when there came a knock at the door. I arose and opened it, when Elder Heber there came a knock at the door. I arose and opened it, when Elder Heber C. Kimball and others entered my house, and being filled with the spirit C. Kimball and others entered my house, and being filled with the spirit of prophecy, they blessed me and my wife, and prophesied as follows:of prophecy, they blessed me and my wife, and prophesied as follows:

““Brother Parley, thy wife shall be healed from this hour, and shall bear a Brother Parley, thy wife shall be healed from this hour, and shall bear a son, and his name shall be Parley; and he shall be a chosen instrument in son, and his name shall be Parley; and he shall be a chosen instrument in the hands of the Lord to inherit the priesthood and to walk in the steps of the hands of the Lord to inherit the priesthood and to walk in the steps of his father. He shall do a great work in the earth in ministering the Word his father. He shall do a great work in the earth in ministering the Word and teaching the children of men. Arise, therefore, and go forth in the and teaching the children of men. Arise, therefore, and go forth in the ministry, nothing doubting. Take no thoughts for your debts, not the ministry, nothing doubting. Take no thoughts for your debts, not the necessaries of life, for the Lord will supply you with abundant means for necessaries of life, for the Lord will supply you with abundant means for all things” (Pratt, all things” (Pratt, AutobiographyAutobiography, 130)., 130).

The blessing that Thankful would bear a The blessing that Thankful would bear a son was particularly startling because in ten son was particularly startling because in ten years of marriage she had been unable to years of marriage she had been unable to conceive.conceive.

The birth was a bittersweet experience, The birth was a bittersweet experience, however, for she died just three hours laterhowever, for she died just three hours later..

She was buried in the churchyard near the She was buried in the churchyard near the Temple in Kirtland.Temple in Kirtland.

The First Baptisms in the River RibbleThe First Baptisms in the River Ribble

Word spread quickly that there was going to Word spread quickly that there was going to be a baptism and it was estimated that 7,000 – be a baptism and it was estimated that 7,000 – 9,000 people showed up to watch. 9,000 people showed up to watch.

Nine people were baptized that day and there Nine people were baptized that day and there was a friendly wager between them as to who was a friendly wager between them as to who would be baptized first. would be baptized first.

They settled it with a foot race which They settled it with a foot race which George George Watt’sWatt’s won. won.

Unfortunately he was later Unfortunately he was later excommunicated and died outside of the excommunicated and died outside of the Church.Church.

A lot of the people who were baptized A lot of the people who were baptized had seen Heber in a vision before he came had seen Heber in a vision before he came to England and the Spirit had testified to to England and the Spirit had testified to them that “he would teach them the them that “he would teach them the truthtruth.”.”

In just 10 months the missionaries had In just 10 months the missionaries had baptized over 2,000 peoplebaptized over 2,000 people. . Heber C. Heber C. Kimball baptized 1,500 of them himselfKimball baptized 1,500 of them himself..

ChatburnChatburn

Heber told some of the converts that he felt Heber told some of the converts that he felt impressed to go to Chatburn. His convert friends impressed to go to Chatburn. His convert friends warned him not to go. They said the people in warned him not to go. They said the people in Chatburn had driven all the ministers out of their Chatburn had driven all the ministers out of their town. town.

Heber C. Kimball responded that the Spirit drove Heber C. Kimball responded that the Spirit drove him there and that he had to go.him there and that he had to go.

After he arrived he baptized nearly the entire town After he arrived he baptized nearly the entire town and also a couple of the other nearby towns. and also a couple of the other nearby towns.

A few months later when he re-visited the area, the A few months later when he re-visited the area, the little children came out to greet him, encircled him little children came out to greet him, encircled him and sang songs of Zionand sang songs of Zion. .

Heber said, Heber said,

““As I passed down the streets of Chatburn, women As I passed down the streets of Chatburn, women came out of their homes and cried and waved came out of their homes and cried and waved hankies in respect. Men took off their hats in hankies in respect. Men took off their hats in reverence as I passed. I felt as though I were on reverence as I passed. I felt as though I were on sacred ground and should have removed my shoes.” sacred ground and should have removed my shoes.”

Later, when Heber shared that Later, when Heber shared that experience with Joseph, Joseph told experience with Joseph, Joseph told him that ancient Apostles had stood him that ancient Apostles had stood on that very spot and had prepared it on that very spot and had prepared it for Heber’s coming. for Heber’s coming.

Some have said it was Paul and Some have said it was Paul and Simeon, others - James and John. Simeon, others - James and John.

Parley P. Pratt preaching in MentorParley P. Pratt preaching in Mentor ::

Some came to hear, and some to disturb the meeting; and on Mr. Newel Some came to hear, and some to disturb the meeting; and on Mr. Newel soon appeared at the head of a mob of some fifty men and a band of soon appeared at the head of a mob of some fifty men and a band of music. These formed in order a battle and marched round several times music. These formed in order a battle and marched round several times near where I stood, drowning out my voice with the noise of their drums near where I stood, drowning out my voice with the noise of their drums and other instruments. I suspended my discourse several times as they and other instruments. I suspended my discourse several times as they passed, and then resumed. At length, finding that no disturbance of this passed, and then resumed. At length, finding that no disturbance of this kind would prevent the attempt to discharge my duty, they rushed upon kind would prevent the attempt to discharge my duty, they rushed upon me with one accord at a given signal, every man throwing an egg at my me with one accord at a given signal, every man throwing an egg at my person. My forehead, bosom, and most of my body was completely person. My forehead, bosom, and most of my body was completely covered with broken eggs. At this I departed, and walked slowly away, covered with broken eggs. At this I departed, and walked slowly away, being insulted and followed by this rabble for some distance. I soon being insulted and followed by this rabble for some distance. I soon arrived in Kirtland, and was assisted by my kind friends in cleansing arrived in Kirtland, and was assisted by my kind friends in cleansing myself and clothes from the effects of this Christian benevolence (Pratt, myself and clothes from the effects of this Christian benevolence (Pratt, AutobiographyAutobiography, 128-29)., 128-29).

Orson Hyde narrowly missed harmOrson Hyde narrowly missed harm::

He and his companion held a meeting in a He and his companion held a meeting in a private home. A mob of several hundred men private home. A mob of several hundred men surrounded the house to tar and feather the surrounded the house to tar and feather the elders. Orson noted that “a little boy came into elders. Orson noted that “a little boy came into the house to see if we were there and he did not the house to see if we were there and he did not see us, and went out and told them that we were see us, and went out and told them that we were not there, and they then disappeared swearing not there, and they then disappeared swearing and scolding, and thus the Lord delivered us and scolding, and thus the Lord delivered us (Bitton, op. cit. 506-7).(Bitton, op. cit. 506-7).

Back to the Apostates in KirtlandBack to the Apostates in Kirtland

In August of 1837 the “In August of 1837 the “Parish GangParish Gang” was organized. ” was organized. They claimed that the Church was out of harmony They claimed that the Church was out of harmony by adding the title “of Latter-day Saintsby adding the title “of Latter-day Saints.” They .” They formulated “The Church of Christ” and tried to take formulated “The Church of Christ” and tried to take over the temple by force and violence.over the temple by force and violence.

John F. Boynton (one of the twelve) and others in John F. Boynton (one of the twelve) and others in the gang rushed onto the floor armed with bowie the gang rushed onto the floor armed with bowie knives and pistols. Women were screaming and knives and pistols. Women were screaming and John said, “any man that touches me I will blow his John said, “any man that touches me I will blow his brains out!” brains out!”

The police eventually arrived and restored peace The police eventually arrived and restored peace and order.and order.

Every day the Parish Gang would show up at the Every day the Parish Gang would show up at the temple in order to try and get Joseph. On one temple in order to try and get Joseph. On one occasion one of the gang members was so occasion one of the gang members was so determined to get to Joseph that he started running determined to get to Joseph that he started running on top of the seats because there were so many on top of the seats because there were so many people in front of him. people in front of him.

Joseph calmly told Vincent Knight who was a rather Joseph calmly told Vincent Knight who was a rather small man to throw him out. Vincent stood up, small man to throw him out. Vincent stood up, grabbed the man, threw him over his shoulder and grabbed the man, threw him over his shoulder and walked out with the man bawling like a baby.walked out with the man bawling like a baby.

The Parrish Gang accused the Prophet of The Parrish Gang accused the Prophet of training a training a dovedove to come into the temple. to come into the temple.

They said the dove would land on Joseph’s shoulder They said the dove would land on Joseph’s shoulder and converse with him. They said that Joseph and converse with him. They said that Joseph would claim the Holy Ghost made things known to would claim the Holy Ghost made things known to him by the actions of the dove.him by the actions of the dove.

Lies were being told about him all the time.Lies were being told about him all the time.

In July Joseph had been sick and the Parrish Gang In July Joseph had been sick and the Parrish Gang spread the rumor that the reason he was sick and spread the rumor that the reason he was sick and dying was because he had desecrated God’s Holy dying was because he had desecrated God’s Holy Temple. Temple.

Warren Parrish, Jared Carter and Oliver Warren Parrish, Jared Carter and Oliver Cowdery were guilty of adultery.Cowdery were guilty of adultery.

Oliver came to the Prophet one day and Oliver came to the Prophet one day and said, “We know it is true, let’s live it.” said, “We know it is true, let’s live it.”

Joseph told Oliver that he did not have Joseph told Oliver that he did not have permission from God to live the law. permission from God to live the law. Oliver saw himself as Joseph’s equal and Oliver saw himself as Joseph’s equal and began to live plural marriage without began to live plural marriage without Joseph’s consent.Joseph’s consent.

Brigham Young later said of Oliver, “He ran before Brigham Young later said of Oliver, “He ran before he was sent.” he was sent.”

Just because you know the law does not give you Just because you know the law does not give you permission to live the lawpermission to live the law. .

It was not until 1843 in Nauvoo that Joseph gave It was not until 1843 in Nauvoo that Joseph gave permission for people to live that law.permission for people to live that law.

In January 1838 the Kirtland printing press was In January 1838 the Kirtland printing press was destroyed by apostates. They also tried setting the destroyed by apostates. They also tried setting the Temple on fire.Temple on fire.

Wilford WoodruffWilford WoodruffWilford was preparing to say his prayers when an angel came through Wilford was preparing to say his prayers when an angel came through the wall, sat down in a chair and said, “Wilford you are a faithful the wall, sat down in a chair and said, “Wilford you are a faithful man. Because of your faith, the Savior has sent me to show you the man. Because of your faith, the Savior has sent me to show you the end of the world.” end of the world.”

Wilford saw all the events leading up to the Second Coming and Wilford saw all the events leading up to the Second Coming and beyond. beyond.

Wilford also saw the resurrection. Wilford also saw the resurrection.

As the events would go before his eyes, the angel would stop and As the events would go before his eyes, the angel would stop and explain them so he could understand.explain them so he could understand.

If we were to pick out a man in this dispensation who was a visionary If we were to pick out a man in this dispensation who was a visionary man, who approached Joseph, but not his equal, it would be a teacher man, who approached Joseph, but not his equal, it would be a teacher in the Aaronic Priesthood named Wilford Woodruffin the Aaronic Priesthood named Wilford Woodruff..

ReversesApril 1836 — January 1838

To this point, the Church had suffered little internal To this point, the Church had suffered little internal contention. Joseph’s most virulent critics had been contention. Joseph’s most virulent critics had been newspaper editors and lapsed Mormons. By the newspaper editors and lapsed Mormons. By the winter of 1837, however, factions in Kirtland, winter of 1837, however, factions in Kirtland, believing Joseph had fallen, were trying to depose believing Joseph had fallen, were trying to depose him. Joseph was accused of false steps in the him. Joseph was accused of false steps in the promotion of a Kirtland Bank and of moral promotion of a Kirtland Bank and of moral transgression in taking an additional wife — or worse.transgression in taking an additional wife — or worse.

Unfortunately, Joseph’s own words are rarely heard in Unfortunately, Joseph’s own words are rarely heard in this dark time. this dark time.

Between the dedication of the Kirtland Temple in the spring Between the dedication of the Kirtland Temple in the spring of 1836 until the prophet fled Kirtland in early 1838, only of 1836 until the prophet fled Kirtland in early 1838, only two brief revelations were recorded. From then until the two brief revelations were recorded. From then until the end of his life, only twenty more were added to the canon. end of his life, only twenty more were added to the canon. His speeches are known only from notes by listeners. On His speeches are known only from notes by listeners. On the large issues of the next eight years — plural marriage, the large issues of the next eight years — plural marriage, the temple endowment, the plans for the Kingdom of God the temple endowment, the plans for the Kingdom of God — we hear virtually nothing from Joseph himself. He — we hear virtually nothing from Joseph himself. He moved behind a screen of other minds: those of clerks who moved behind a screen of other minds: those of clerks who wrote his diaries, hearers who took notes on his sermons, wrote his diaries, hearers who took notes on his sermons, enemies who charged him with dire crimes, official letters enemies who charged him with dire crimes, official letters written by others, sensational reports by newspaper editors, written by others, sensational reports by newspaper editors, and later remembrances of loyal old comrades and and later remembrances of loyal old comrades and embittered former friends.embittered former friends.

Fanny AlgerFanny Alger

There is evidence that Joseph was a polygamist by 1835. In There is evidence that Joseph was a polygamist by 1835. In an angry letter written in 1838, Oliver Cowdery referred to an angry letter written in 1838, Oliver Cowdery referred to the “dirty, nasty, filthy, affair” of Joseph Smith and Fanny the “dirty, nasty, filthy, affair” of Joseph Smith and Fanny Alger (Fanny would have been 18 or 19).Alger (Fanny would have been 18 or 19).

No one intimated in 1835 that Joseph’s actions caused the No one intimated in 1835 that Joseph’s actions caused the rumors. The sources written before 1839 indicate that most rumors. The sources written before 1839 indicate that most Church Leaders knew nothing of a possible marriage. Church Leaders knew nothing of a possible marriage. Cowdery believed that Joseph did have an affair and that his Cowdery believed that Joseph did have an affair and that his insinuations were not lies but the truth as he understood it.insinuations were not lies but the truth as he understood it.

David Patton, who made inquiries in David Patton, who made inquiries in Kirtland, concluded the rumors were Kirtland, concluded the rumors were not untrue. Joseph never denied a not untrue. Joseph never denied a relationship with Alger, but insisted it relationship with Alger, but insisted it was not adulterous. He wanted it on was not adulterous. He wanted it on the record that he never confessed to the record that he never confessed to such a sin. Presumably, he felt such a sin. Presumably, he felt innocent because he had married innocent because he had married Alger.Alger.

Alger disappeared from the Mormon historical record for a quarter of Alger disappeared from the Mormon historical record for a quarter of a century. Her story was recorded as many as sixty years later by a century. Her story was recorded as many as sixty years later by witnesses who had strong reasons to take sides. Surprisingly, they all witnesses who had strong reasons to take sides. Surprisingly, they all agreed that Joseph married Fanny Alger as a plural wife and her agreed that Joseph married Fanny Alger as a plural wife and her parents were supportive of it.parents were supportive of it.

One of the few tales that appeared in more than one account was of One of the few tales that appeared in more than one account was of Oliver Cowdery experimenting with plural marriage himself, contrary Oliver Cowdery experimenting with plural marriage himself, contrary to Joseph’s counsel.to Joseph’s counsel.

The date plural marriage began remains uncertainThe date plural marriage began remains uncertain..

It seems possible that he received the revelation on plural marriage in It seems possible that he received the revelation on plural marriage in 1831 while working on the Old Testament1831 while working on the Old Testament. . Joseph did not explain Joseph did not explain plural marriage as a love match or even a possible relationshipplural marriage as a love match or even a possible relationship. . Only Only slight hints of romances found their way into his proposalsslight hints of romances found their way into his proposals. . He He understood plural marriage as a religious principleunderstood plural marriage as a religious principle..

After leaving Kirtland in 1836, Alger, reportedly, amiable person had After leaving Kirtland in 1836, Alger, reportedly, amiable person had no trouble remarrying. She married Solomon Custer, a non-Mormon no trouble remarrying. She married Solomon Custer, a non-Mormon listed in the censuses as grocer, baker, and merchant. Alger remained listed in the censuses as grocer, baker, and merchant. Alger remained in Indiana with her husband. She bore nine children. After Joseph’s in Indiana with her husband. She bore nine children. After Joseph’s death, Alger’s brother asked her about her relationship with the death, Alger’s brother asked her about her relationship with the Prophet. She replied: “That is all a matter of my — own. And I have Prophet. She replied: “That is all a matter of my — own. And I have nothing to communicate.”nothing to communicate.”

FinancesFinances

On August 19, Joseph wrote Emma that, “we have found the On August 19, Joseph wrote Emma that, “we have found the house since Bro. Burgess left us, very luckily and providentially, house since Bro. Burgess left us, very luckily and providentially, as we had one spell been most discouraged.” They were plotting as we had one spell been most discouraged.” They were plotting how to get possession. “The house is occupied and it will require how to get possession. “The house is occupied and it will require much care and patience to rent or buy it.” Joseph said they were much care and patience to rent or buy it.” Joseph said they were willing to wait months if necessary, but by September, the party willing to wait months if necessary, but by September, the party was back in Kirtland with no treasure for their pains (D&C 111).was back in Kirtland with no treasure for their pains (D&C 111).

Joseph had run up debts over $100,000. To raise more capital, Joseph had run up debts over $100,000. To raise more capital, Church leaders planned a bank. Like stores and mills, banks were Church leaders planned a bank. Like stores and mills, banks were multiplying in the 1830’s. Twenty banks had been chartered in Ohio multiplying in the 1830’s. Twenty banks had been chartered in Ohio since 1830.since 1830.

On November 2, 1836 the Kirtland Safety Society back was organized On November 2, 1836 the Kirtland Safety Society back was organized and began selling stock. As usual, Joseph thought big. In actuality, and began selling stock. As usual, Joseph thought big. In actuality, the Safety Society was a partial “land bank,” a device New the Safety Society was a partial “land bank,” a device New Englanders had once resorted to in their cash-poor, land rich society.Englanders had once resorted to in their cash-poor, land rich society.

The disappointment began almost immediately. Cowdery brought The disappointment began almost immediately. Cowdery brought back the plates and printed notes, but Hyde failed to obtain the charter back the plates and printed notes, but Hyde failed to obtain the charter from the Ohio legislature. The Mormons adjusted by organizing from the Ohio legislature. The Mormons adjusted by organizing themselves into an “anti-banking” company and, spiting the themselves into an “anti-banking” company and, spiting the legislature, stamped the word “anti” before the word “banking” and legislature, stamped the word “anti” before the word “banking” and began issuing notes.began issuing notes.

In a simpler and more isolated society, where In a simpler and more isolated society, where mutual trust was high, the scheme might have mutual trust was high, the scheme might have worked. In Kirtland, worked. In Kirtland, the bank failed within a the bank failed within a monthmonth. Business started on January 2, 1837. . Business started on January 2, 1837. Three weeks later, the bank was floundering. Three weeks later, the bank was floundering. All of the investors lost their capital, All of the investors lost their capital, Joseph as Joseph as much as anyonemuch as anyone. . He had bought more stock He had bought more stock than eighty-five percent of the investors.than eighty-five percent of the investors. In In June, faced with complete collapse, both Sidney June, faced with complete collapse, both Sidney and Joseph resigned as treasurer and secretary.and Joseph resigned as treasurer and secretary.

Meanwhile, Joseph’s enemies attacked. The bank episode Meanwhile, Joseph’s enemies attacked. The bank episode not only hurt the Saints financially, it tried their faith. not only hurt the Saints financially, it tried their faith. Widespread apostasy resulted. Widespread apostasy resulted. The stalwarts Parley and The stalwarts Parley and Orson Pratt faltered for a few monthsOrson Pratt faltered for a few months. . David Patton, a David Patton, a leading apostle, raised so many insulting questions Joseph leading apostle, raised so many insulting questions Joseph “slapped him in the face and kicked him out of the yard“slapped him in the face and kicked him out of the yard.” .” Joseph’s counselor Frederick G. Williams was alienated and Joseph’s counselor Frederick G. Williams was alienated and removed from office. One of the Prophet’s favorites, his removed from office. One of the Prophet’s favorites, his clerk Warren Parrish, tried to dispose him.clerk Warren Parrish, tried to dispose him.

Heber C. Kimball claimed that by June 1837 not twenty Heber C. Kimball claimed that by June 1837 not twenty men in Kirtland believed Joseph was a prophetmen in Kirtland believed Joseph was a prophet..

Wilford Woodruff’s KirtlandWilford Woodruff’s Kirtland

Apostasy was rife, but the Church was not near collapse. As leaders Apostasy was rife, but the Church was not near collapse. As leaders defected, men of equal ability rose to take their places. defected, men of equal ability rose to take their places. By 1837, By 1837, Mormonism had developed such momentum that the loss of a few Mormonism had developed such momentum that the loss of a few high-placed men could not slow it downhigh-placed men could not slow it down. While Joseph was fending . While Joseph was fending off critics in Kirtland, the Missouri Church leaders were building a off critics in Kirtland, the Missouri Church leaders were building a Zion in Far West. Elsewhere, the traveling elders were gathering Zion in Far West. Elsewhere, the traveling elders were gathering converts faster than Joseph’s opponents could make apostates. converts faster than Joseph’s opponents could make apostates.

Wilford Woodruff did not feel the bank trouble threatened Joseph’s Wilford Woodruff did not feel the bank trouble threatened Joseph’s authority. Paradoxically, the trials of 1837, instead of tearing Joseph authority. Paradoxically, the trials of 1837, instead of tearing Joseph down, built him up.down, built him up.

ApostasyApostasy

The bank failure, suspicions and The bank failure, suspicions and Joseph’s morals, and economic stress Joseph’s morals, and economic stress combined to bring on the apostasies combined to bring on the apostasies of 1837. It took months for the of 1837. It took months for the Pratt’s to recover their composure and Pratt’s to recover their composure and return to the fold.return to the fold.

ZionZion

In June 1837, Joseph called Heber C. Kimball to lead a band of seven In June 1837, Joseph called Heber C. Kimball to lead a band of seven to England. On June 13, they set out to begin a work that over the to England. On June 13, they set out to begin a work that over the next fifteen years would yield 51,000 converts. Three weeks later, next fifteen years would yield 51,000 converts. Three weeks later, 1,500 Saints in Far West broke ground for a new temple in Missouri. 1,500 Saints in Far West broke ground for a new temple in Missouri. During the conference, 109 elders accepted calls to serve missions.During the conference, 109 elders accepted calls to serve missions.

In late December, twenty-eight men were cut off from the church, In late December, twenty-eight men were cut off from the church, bringing the total to more than forty that year. But excommunication bringing the total to more than forty that year. But excommunication did not silence the group. The “old standard” faction was determined did not silence the group. The “old standard” faction was determined to hold their meetings in the temple even “if it is by the shedding of to hold their meetings in the temple even “if it is by the shedding of blood.” They claimed to be the legitimate Church, making Joseph the blood.” They claimed to be the legitimate Church, making Joseph the apostate. They called themselves the Church of Christ, the Church’s apostate. They called themselves the Church of Christ, the Church’s first name.first name.