Essentials in Church History: A History of the Church from the Birth of Joseph Smith to the Present Time (1922), with Introductory Chapters on the Antiquity of the Gospel and the "Falling Away"Smith, Joseph Fielding
History
Essentials in Church History: A History of the Church from the Birth of Joseph Smith to the Present Time (1922), with Introductory Chapters on the Antiquity of the Gospel and the "Falling Away"
Smith, Joseph Fielding
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints -- History
(4). "That the Mormon leaders here are required to use their influence
in preventing any further emigration of their distant brethren to this
county, and to counsel and advise their brethren here to comply with
the above requisitions.
(5). "That those who fail to comply with these requisitions be referred
to those of their brethren who have the gifts of divination, and of
unknown tongues, to inform them of the lot that awaits them."
This address was read and after approval a committee consisting of
twelve men was appointed to wait upon the presiding elders of the
Church. They were instructed to "see that the foregoing requisitions
are strictly complied with by them; and upon their refusal, that
said committee do, as the organ of this county, inform them that it
is our unwavering purpose and fixed determination, after the fullest
consideration of all the consequences and responsibilities under which
we act, to use such means as shall insure full and complete adoption."
Such was the ungodly manifesto of the mob.
The Enemy's Demands
A recess was taken for two hours in which the committee was to carry
this message of unrighteous demands to the elders of the Church, and
then make report. Naturally these brethren desired time to consider
these drastic terms. They had come into the land by command of the
Lord, to receive their inheritance; it was here the great city of the
New Jerusalem was to be built; they had hoped for a peaceful possession
of their property, and as they had not interfered with the privileges
of others they justly felt that they were entitled to maintain their
rights. They asked for three months for consideration of these evil
terms; but were denied. They then asked for ten days; but were informed
that fifteen minutes was time enough. If immediate answer was not
forthcoming an unfavorable report would be returned, with consequences
of serious character speedily to follow. A refusal of these demands
was evidently the desire of the unlawful gathering at the court house,
which sought a pretext to vent their anger upon the Saints violently.
The Committee's Report
The committee returned and made their report. "Whereupon," their
minutes read, "it was unanimously resolved by the meeting, that the
_Star_ printing office should be razed to the ground; the type and
press secured." With the understanding that they would meet again three
days later, the horde of wretches started forth on their mission of
destruction. They did not overlook the opportunity to advertise their
deliberations "that the Mormon brethren may know at a distance that the
gates of Zion are closed against them--that their interests will be
best promoted by remaining among those who know and appreciate their
merits."
Vengeance of the Mob
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
Reviews
Reviews
No reviews yet
Be the first to share your thoughts on this work.
Elsewhere in the archive
Join the Discussion
Join the discussion
Sign in to leave a comment or review.
Sign InorCreate an account