LDS Church History: October 2011

History of the Word of Wisdom, Oct 3, 1915

-- Oct 3, 1915
Joseph F. Smith preaches: "Not long ago I happened to be at the home of one of my children when the [ward] teachers came in. We called the family together and submitted ourselves to the duties of the teachers. The head teacher began by saying that he had been sent there by the bishop of the ward to inquire into the condition of the members of the family. He was instructed to inquire of them if they held family prayer, morning and evening, if they asked the blessing upon their food, at each meal. He was required by the bishop to inquire as to whether they kept the word of wisdom, as to whether they attended to their Sabbath meetings and honored the Sabbath day, as to whether those who were of age to attend the various other organizations of the Church, such as the Relief Society, the Young Men's and Young Ladies' Mutual Improvement Associations, the Sunday Schools, the Primary Associations, and the Religion Class, did so, and if they sustained in their hearts their bishop and
his counselors and were united in feeling and sentiment with them, and if they were in harmony in their feelings and sentiment with the presidency of their stake....." (1)

-- Dec. 28, 1915
[Temple] Young men or middle aged men who have had experience in the Church should not be ordained to the Priesthood nor recommended to the privileges of the House of the Lord unless they will abstain from the use of tobacco and intoxicating drinks. This is the rule of the Church and should be observed by all its members. [Joseph F. Smith to C. Elmo Cluff, Dec. 28, 1915] (2)

-- During 1915
[Deseret] Utah passes first state anti-marijuana law. (3)

-- April 8, 1916
[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] Several people had remarked that they knew President Smith would not consent to any notice of the betterment league meeting being given out at the special Priesthood meeting. It is simply outrageous to me that some are trying to create a sentiment that President Smith is not in favor of prohibition and the banishment of liquor from our state. I wrote on a slip of paper the following: "Brother J.M. Whitaker appealed to me to give out notice of our betterment league meeting at 4:30 today. Shall be glad to do so if there are no objections." President Smith answered: "There certainly are no objections." I dont (Sic) care to use it for publication but after I got through preaching a red-hot prohibition sermon at our Conference he expressed his approval, with all I said and stated that he regretted I had not gone on and taken more time. (4)

-- During 1916
[Prohibition] By 1916 the Republican party had adopted prohibition as part of its national platform. Utah Republican leaders followed the national lead and included a dry plank in the state Republican platform. During the state Republican party convention, Governor William Spry was defeated for renomination by Nephi L. Morris, whose record in support of prohibition was untarnished. Democrats also included a prohibition plank in their platform and nominated for Governor Simon Bamberger, a non-Mormon, German-born Jew who had voluntarily ended the sale of alcoholic beverages at his Lagoon resort and who offered to pay $1,000 for a portrait of any better prohibitionist than he. (5)

Footnotes:
1 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com
2 - Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/mo-temple
3 - History to Go, Statehood, http://historytogo.utah.gov/timeline/statehood.html
4 - Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
5 - Utah History Encyclopedia: Prohibition, http://www.media.utah.edu/UHE/p/PROHIBITION.html

LDS History Chronology: the Word of Wisdom

Mormon Timeline: the Word of Wisdom
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

History of the Word of Wisdom, Friday, May 12, 1911

-- Friday, May 12, 1911
[Second Counselor John Henry Smith Diary] Salt Lake City

The Prohibition Committee called at the Office in the morning and secured the use of the Tabernacle to speak on Temperance on Sunday. (1)

-- During 1911
[Prohibition] In 1911 Republicans still opposed a statewide law prohibiting alcohol, but they did go along with legislation that provided for a local option. With the local option, most rural towns passed "dry" laws, but urban centers like Salt Lake City and Ogden did not. (2)

-- During 1911-1916
[Utah Immigration] The short-lived (1911-1916) Jewish agricultural colony of Clarion, Sanpete County, was a rare non-Mormon settlement inhabited exclusively by Jewish immigrants, primarily from Russia, and their children. Elsewhere, immigrants often tended to concentrate in particular neighborhoods within larger communities. In Bingham Canyon alone there were the perjoratively nicknamed Greek Town, Jap Town, Bohunk Town (South Slavs), and Frog Town (French-Canadians). Ethnic community, fostered by benevolent and fraternal societies, newspapers, coffeehouses, boardinghouses, and sometimes churches, was only temporary for many groups, given the booms and busts of the mining industry which provided the major employment for many. (3)

-- During 1913
[Prohibition] PROHIBITION [p0000158.jpg] Decorated beer trucks in Salt Lake, 1913 (2)

-- During 1914
In 1914 various temperance groups organized to form the Utah Federation of Prohibition and Betterment League. (2)

Footnotes:
1 - Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith
2 - Utah History Encyclopedia: Prohibition, http://www.media.utah.edu/UHE/p/PROHIBITION.html
3 - Utah History Encyclopedia: Utah Immigration, http://www.media.utah.edu/UHE/i/IMMIGRATION.html

LDS History Chronology: the Word of Wisdom

Mormon Timeline: the Word of Wisdom
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

History of the Word of Wisdom, Tuesday, Sep 7, 1909

-- Tuesday, Sep 7, 1909
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Salt Lake City

I have spent most of the day at Home. My son George is quite poorly.

I listened to Mayor David A. Rose of Milwauke, Wis. lecture on Temperance, he taking a stand against Prohibition and Local Option. He favored High License in the Liquor traffic. It was held in the Salt Lake Theatre. The house was fairly well filled with listeners. (1)

-- During 1909
(Reed Smoot) Prohibition was the burning issue in Utah. Heber J. Grant, George Albert Smith, and David O. McKay urged Utah communities to eliminate liquor. Smoot, who supported the local option, helped defeat statewide prohibition. As the only apostle opposing prohibition, he was strongly criticized by constituents. (2)

[Prohibition] By 1909 prohibition advocates were arguing that Utah was among less than a dozen remaining "saloon" states--that is, states which had not restricted alcohol statewide or through a local government option. That year the state legislature considered two "dry" bills. One was killed by Republican senators and the other, which passed the legislature, was vetoed by Republican Governor William Spry. (3)

-- Apr 5, 1910
Joseph F. Smith instructs bishops and stake presidents that payment of tithing and observance of Word of Wisdom are necessary for Mormons to obtain temple recommends. Smith also says: "Suicides who are willful should not be buried in 'temple' robes or have public funeral, but local authorities must be the judges of their state of mind when committing the act and act accordingly." (4)

-- Monday, Nov 21, 1910
[Second Counselor John Henry Smith Diary] San Antonio, Texas

The day was spent in meeting friends and Attending Committee meeting.

In the Evening a Banquet was given at the Hotel Gunther by the Chamber of Commerce. About three hundred guests sat down. It was a great spread. Congressmen and Governors were present and many made speaches, I among the number. We were up untill 1 a.m. A few became hilarious from drinking. (1)

Footnotes:
1 - Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith
2 - Van Wagoner, Richard and Walker, Steven C., A Book of Mormons, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
3 - Utah History Encyclopedia: Prohibition, http://www.media.utah.edu/UHE/p/PROHIBITION.html
4 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com

LDS History Chronology: the Word of Wisdom

Mormon Timeline: the Word of Wisdom
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

History of the Word of Wisdom, Jan. 26, 1909

-- Jan. 26, 1909
[Temple] ... This is in answer to yours of the 14th inst., asking if the use of tobacco debarred a member of the Church, single or married, from the temple. The rule of the Church on this question is that all who enter the temple should be observers of the Word of Wisdom. And the rule of the Church is also that all of its members should receive the revelation called the Word of Wisdom, and be guided by it in their lives. But in this connection we may add by way of illustration that the fulness of the gospel has been restored to us, and it is our duty to preach it to the whole world; but because of this, it does not necessarily follow that all who receive it and yield obedience to its requirements by baptism afterwards live in strict accordance to its precepts. And so it is with reference to the Word of Wisdom among the members of the Church. Where elderly people may be found to be more or less lacking in their observance of the Word of Wisdom, and the question of their worthi
ness to be recommended to the temple comes before you for consideration, it will be in order for you and the Stake Presidency to consider together all such cases, deciding each on its own merits, and showing appropriate leniency to elderly people, as there can be no rigid rule for each and every case. * P.S. Our idea is that the cases to be referred to the Stake President for his and your consideration are those only that you yourselves cannot feel clear to act on. [Joseph F. Smith, John R. Winder, and Anthon H. Lund to William H. Seegmiller and counselors, Jan. 26, 1909] (1)

-- Wednesday, Feb 3, 1909
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Salt Lake City

Most intense feeling is growing up in the Legislature over the question of Prohibition of the Liquor trafic.

My nephew Esdras Smith is very sick. (2)

-- Feb 11, 1909 (Thursday)
Wellsville, Cache Co., and Huntsville, Weber Co., Utah, adopted prohibition of the liquor traffic. (3)

-- Apr 20, 1909
[Thomas A. Clawson Diary] "On Monday I had to refuse to issue a Temple recoment (Sic) to bro. A.J. Gray because of his name being on the non-Tithing payers list also, of his bad habit in smoking. This is my first refusal and I was very sorry to have to do it." (4)

-- Wed., Aug 18, 1909
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Denver

At 10 a.m. Congress convened. Prest. Thos. Walsh presiding. Resolutions were Introduced. Gifford Pinchot spoke as did John W. Noble of Missouri.

The Congress as a body went out to Wolhurst the Country home of President T. F. Walsh. There were 14 car loads of People. We were Royally entertained. It is a most beautifull place. Coffee, Lemonade, Sandwichs, Cake and Ice cream went the Round, all seemed most happy.... (2)

Footnotes:
1 - Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/mo-temple
2 - Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith
3 - Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology
4 - Diary Excerpts of Thomas A. Clawson, Signature Books Library, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies

LDS History Chronology: the Word of Wisdom

Mormon Timeline: the Word of Wisdom
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

History of the Word of Wisdom, March 18, 1908

-- March 18, 1908
[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] 5 p.m. attended a Gen. Board Meeting of the Y.M.M.I.A. Quite a discussion on the question of Prohibition. Many of the brethren felt that it would be a big mistake to attempt to secure Prohibition. They believed it would fail. Local option seemed to meet with general approval. I am not sure but what their position is well taken. Perhaps to try to secure absolute Prohibition would fail, while local option might succeed. I always believed in accepting half a loaf where the chances are that you will not succeed in getting the full loaf if you will make a fight for it. What I want, is to restrict the liquor traffic and particularly to get rid of the low dives or cheap saloons. (1)

-- Sunday, Jul 12, 1908
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Salt Lake City

2 p.m. A Temperance Meeting was held in the Tabernacle, Prest. F. M. Lyman presiding. The Tabernacle Choir sang three numbers and a Sunday School Choir one.

Prayer by H. J. Grant. President Lyman Introduced Louis Fuller who spoke. Governor John C. Cutler read a nice paper.

Dr. P. A. Baker spoke 40 minutes on Temperance.

The congregation was a fair one. The day has been very hot.

4 p.m. I met with my Prayer Circle and spoke to them, 13 of the brethren being present.

My son Nicholas G. was ordained a Seventy to day [by] Prest. Jonathan Golden Kimball. (2)

-- During 1908
(B. H. Roberts) Roberts's weakness for alcohol seems to have put another barrier between him and other members of the Council. In 1908 Seymour B. Young recorded that Roberts "has been many times much worse for liquor in so much that his brethren of the council have had to take up a labor with him." (3)

-- Jan 5, 1909
Apostle John Henry Smith writes in his diary, "Ten of the Twelve and six of the seven Presidents of the Seventy met and talked over the Word of Wisdom. All agreed to live it." (4)

-- Jan 26, 1909
First Presidency letter: "Where elderly people may be found to be more or less lacking in their observance of the Word of Wisdom, and the question of their worthiness to be "commended to the temple comes before your consideration, it is in order for [the bishop] and the Stake Presidency to consider together all such cases, deciding each on its own merits, and showing appropriate leniency to elderly people, as there can be no rigid rule for each and every case." (4)

Footnotes:
1 - Diary of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
2 - Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith
3 - Van Wagoner, Richard and Walker, Steven C., A Book of Mormons, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
4 - Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower

LDS History Chronology: the Word of Wisdom

Mormon Timeline: the Word of Wisdom
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

History of the Word of Wisdom, Dec 10, 1905

-- Dec 10, 1905
[Apostle Marriner W. Merrill Diary] Sunday. My health continues very poor. Plasterers ale at work plastering the Richmond Tabernacle. I sent Preston $100.00 today. Almira, my wife, quite ill and has been so for several days; confined to her bed the most of the time. Alva Retta and Orella have both been sick also. (1)

-- Jan 10, 1906
First Council of Seventy instructs B. H. Roberts to go to Los Angeles for "recuperation from a weakness for liquor that had fastened itself upon him." Roberts confessed his problem to Council in 1901, and its senior president writes in 1908 that he "has been many times much the worse for Liquor in so much that his brethren of the Council have had to take up a labor with him." (2)

-- Tuesday, Feb 20, 1906
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Washington, D.C.

I had breakfast with Vice President [Charles W.] Fairbanks. Two of his sons and a daughter in law was at table with us. Our meal consisted of Baked apples & cream, corn cake and butter, Hominy & Cream, Fried Eggs and French fried Potatoes and Coffee. I met Senators [Francis G.] Newlands of Nevada, C. M. Depew of N.Y. and Canute Nelson of Minnesota. The later is warmly attached to Reed Smoot. (3)

-- Thursday, Jul 5, 1906
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Salt Lake City

All of the First Presidency and Francis M. Lyman, Myself, Rudger Clawson, Reed Smoot, Hyrum M. Smith, George Albert Smith, Charles W. Penrose, Geo. F. Richards, Orson F. Whitney and David O. McKay, Patriarch John Smith and Geo. F. Gibbs met at 10 a.m. in the [?].

Routine business was gone through and Reports were made.

We partook of the Sacrament, Prest. Joseph F. Smith blessing it. Water and not wine was used. (3)

-- Jul 5, 1906
First Presidency, Quorum of Twelve Apostles, and Presiding Patriarch begin consistently using "water and not wine" in their own sacrament. Apostle John Henry Smith specifically notes in his diary: " We partook of the Sacrament, Prest. Joseph F. Smith blessing it. Water and not wine was used." Joseph F. Smith personally stopped drinking wine at temple meeting sacrament in Dec. 1902. When this first came up for discussion by apostles on Jan. 7, 1903, Hyrum M. Smith criticized this practice. However, most apostles in 1903 preferred to continue using wine in temple. (4)

Footnotes:
1 - Notes from the Miscellaneous Record Book, 1886-1906: Selected diary notes from the journal books of Marriner Wood Merrill, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
2 - Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower
3 - Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith
4 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com

LDS History Chronology: the Word of Wisdom

Mormon Timeline: the Word of Wisdom
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

History of the Word of Wisdom, Monday, Mar 15, 1905

-- Monday, Mar 15, 1905
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Paso dela Mina, Tabasco

I slept very nicely. Pigs, Dogs. Cats. Trinkies and chickens occupied my room with me and James Mack, Ben Cluff, and John A. McAllister.

Their was five beds in the house, a table and a bath Tub. Senor Torraco has a wife and two children. He is nearly pure Spanish, the wife pure Indian. One of the children is white, the other dark like an Indian. We had rice, Fried Eggs, tortillas, Beans, Plantin, Coffee, and Chocolate for our meals, all nicely cooked. The Table linen and dishes were clean and food nicely served.

Our horses arrived from the ranch about noon. At 1:15 p.m. we left for Lagunillas and in going swam our horses across the Sanapa River and the men rode in a skiff. We reached the ranch about 5 p.m. (1)

-- Monday, Mar 20, 1905
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Huimanguillo to Chicago Ranch, Tabasco

We left here at 4 a.m. and riding about 20 miles reached the Home of Adolph G. Weiss of Chicago, his ranch of about seven thousand acres. We were received with open arms by a Mr. Green, Mr. Weiss being out on his ranch. He came in about noon and Mr. Mansar with him. We spent the afternoon looking over the place. He is growing Cattle and horses, Cocoa, Bananas, Coffee and Rubber trees. (1)

-- Monday, Mar 27, 1905
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] ...I have seen no evidences of immorality or drunkenness although everybody drinks alcohol. Many both men and women, boys and girls are Smokers. (1)

-- Mar 27, 1905
Apostle John Henry Smith, traveling in Mexico, writes, "I have seen no evidences of immorality or drunkenness although everybody drinks alcohol. Many both men and women, boys and girls are Smokers." (2)

-- Friday, Aug 25, 1905
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Portland, Oregon

It was Logan day at the Fair. Professor Linford, J. w. Kerr, Congressman Joseph Howell and I spoke. We had cake and Ice cream and wine. (1)

LDS History Chronology: the Word of Wisdom

Mormon Timeline: the Word of Wisdom
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History of the Word of Wisdom, Thursday, Jul 7, 1904

-- Thursday, Jul 7, 1904
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...The brethren now repaired to the Apostles' Room and partook of the sacrament, Pres. Lund being mouth in blessing the bread and wine. While at the table Pres. Smith arose and said that he had been impressed to name a certain brother to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Elder A. O. Woodruff and he now submitted for the consideration of the brethren the name of Chas. W. Penrose. ... (1)

-- Sunday, Jul 17, 1904
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Salt Lake City. Clear and warm. 8 a.m. I left for Provo to attend the Utah Stake Conference, arriving at 9:40 a.m.

10 a.m. Continuation of conference in the tabernacle, Pres. David John presiding. Elder Geo. A. Smith then spoke. Topics treated. Word of Wisdom. Responsibility of parents to their children. Extravagance.

2 p.m. Continuation of conference, Pres. D. John presiding. Pres. John made brief remarks, reporting the stake. R. Clawson. Topics treated. Spoke in complimentary terms of the singing by the choir. The building up of Zion. The temporal and the spiritual. The things of God can only be understood by the Spirit of God. Geo. A. Smith. Topics treated. We should appreciate the labors of the bishops. The proper manner of blessing children. People moving from ward to ward should bring their recommends. (1)

-- Monday, Oct 17, 1904
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Salt Lake City

Mr. H. O. Havemeyer [of the sugar trust] and party are in the City. I had dinner with them at the Alta [men's social] Club.

Eighteen gentlemen sat down at the Table. 12 courses were indulged. We were three hours at the Table. Many toasts were proposed and answered. We had a joyous time. Five of the 18 drank no wine. (2)

-- Friday, Mar 3, 1905
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Cordoba to Vera Cruz

We left at 7 a.m. over the Vera Cruz and Pacific Railway for Santa Lucrecia, state Vera Cruz. We got a nice dinner at the Town of Tere Bianca. . .We passed through a wonderland of tangled thriving Coffee Trees, Banana Trees, Sugar Cane, Tobacco plants, Cattle, Horses, Swine and Turkey and all Colored birds. We saw Sugar Factories. Mountains covered with Timber. (2)

-- Mar 11, 1905
Apostle John Henry Smith describes his visit to Paso de Mina, Mexico: "I slept very nicely. Pigs, Dogs. Cats. Trinkies and chickens occupied my room with me and James Mack, Ben Cluff, and John A. McAllister. Their was five beds in the house, a table and a bath Tub. Senor Torraco has a wife and two children. He is nearly pure Spanish, the wife pure Indian. One of the children is white, the other dark like an Indian. We had rice, Fried Eggs, tortillas, Beans, Plantin, Coffee, and Chocolate for our meals, all nicely cooked. The Table linen and dishes were clean and food nicely served." (3)

Footnotes:
1 - Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson
2 - Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith
3 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com

LDS History Chronology: the Word of Wisdom

Mormon Timeline: the Word of Wisdom
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

History of the Word of Wisdom, Thursday, Mar 31, 1904

-- Thursday, Mar 31, 1904
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...Meeting adjourned to Sacrament table. Benediction by Pres. Jos. F. Smith. The brethren repaired to the sacrament table; the bread and wine were blessed by Elder Clawson. Note: the Twelve did not hold their usual quarterly meetings on account of so few of the Twelve being at home, and other matters arising. (1)

-- Thursday, Apr 14, 1904
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...There [was] some informal talk in regard to the policy of leasing Saltair and incidentally granting the privilege of selling liquor there. It was conceded that, if the Latter-day Saints were strong enough by their patronage to sustain Saltair, there would be no necessity of leasing; but their patronage is not sufficient, and the gentiles will not give their support without the liquor privilege, so it was considered good policy by the Beach Co. to lease the property and, if liquor were sold, the odium must rest upon the lessee. The price fixed for rental was $30,000â€"$18,000 for the railroad and $22,000 [$12,000] for the beach.... (1)

-- Apr 14,1904
[Utah] First Presidency and apostles decide to resume sale of liquor at church resort of Saltair due to need for non-Mormon patronage. (2)

-- Thursday, May 5, 1904
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...Elder Hyrum M. Smith was in attendance at the Cache Stake Conference. Good attendance and general counsels were given. The bishop of the 2nd Ward informed him, just as he stopped on the train to return home, that there is a patriarch [Rasmus Rasmussen] in the Cache Stake in Logan, who visits the saloon and who is guilty of stealing whiskey in small bottles from the saloon. The empty bottles had ben found in his home, and yet he is sustained in his position as patriarch.... (1)

-- Thursday, May 12, 1904
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...Letters

Pres. [Joseph] Morrell of Cache Stake wrote, explaining in relation to the matter of Patriarch [Rasmus] Rasmussen's visit to a saloon in Logan as reported at last meeting. The explanation given was that he had gone there to sell some eggs, and while there that the proprietor had slipped a bottle of whiskey into his pocket and later accused him of stealing it, and extorted money from himâ€"hush money. The brethren of the council didn't think the explanation very satisfactory and concluded to make further enquiries.... (1)

Footnotes:
1 - Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson
2 - Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power, Appendix 5, Selected Chronology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1848-1996, http://amzn.to/extensions-power

LDS History Chronology: the Word of Wisdom

Mormon Timeline: the Word of Wisdom
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

History of the Word of Wisdom, Saturday, Jun 27, 1903

-- Saturday, Jun 27, 1903
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...Nephi W. Clayton said that he favored the motion if the purpose for which the pavilion was built could be accomplished, and also the purpose had in view by restricting the sale of liquor, but he very much doubted it. He remarked that there was quite a wide demand among our own people for beer at Saltair.... (1)

-- Thursday, Oct 1, 1903
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Elder Cowley attended the Malad Stake Conference last week. The young man who had been chosen bishop of Cherry Creek expressed a determination to move from the ward, hence he did not ordain him to that office. The young people of Malad are much addicted to the use of tobacco. Elder Woodruff attended a Sunday School conference last Sunday in the Weber Stake of Zion. The meetings were crowded and a splendid spirit prevailed....

Reports were approved. Benediction by Elder Grant. The tables were then spread with bread and wine, and the blessing was pronounced by Elder Grant, after which the brethren partook freely and with much relish and enjoyment.... (1)

-- Thursday, Nov 5, 1903
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...The labors of the brethren were approved. Elder Clawson said that he had been approached by a bishop who wanted to know the view of the council in regard to the Word of Wisdom, as to whether it was now binding upon the church as a commandment, as thus saith the Lord. Pres. Smith replied that it is so regarded. Benediction.... (1)

-- Thursday, Dec 17, 1903
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...Elder Clawson, accompanied by Elder Geo. A. Smith, attended the Morgan Stake Conference. Good attendance. Fine class of young people in that stake. Presidency united and meet once a week. Having a little trouble with Brother [Charles] Welsh, high councillor, who does not fully sustain the presidency. Good crops.... (1)

-- Thursday, Mar 17, 1904
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...Pres. Winder attended Sabbath School in Farmers Ward last Sunday and enjoyed himself. Elder Geo. A. Smith attended meeting at Linne, Alpine Stake, last Thursday night. On Sunday and Monday he attended conference at Morgan. During the conference met with the presidency of the stake and high council, and, as some of the council failed to observe the Word of Wisdom, spoke upon that subject. He ordained Frank B. Hopkin a high priest and bishop and set him apart to preside over the Croyden Ward. Elder Hyrum M. Smith said that while at Washington he and the brethren met with the saints there at the home of Brother Willey. They had an enjoyable time.... (1)

LDS History Chronology: the Word of Wisdom

Mormon Timeline: the Word of Wisdom
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

History of the Word of Wisdom, Thursday, Apr 2, 1903

-- Thursday, Apr 2, 1903
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...Elder Clawson was the first speaker. Said that he had enjoyed the spirit of our meetings. .... Tithe-paying in his opinion was the true test of a man's faith; and furthermore, men who were guilty of neglect in this matter would in all probability be guilty of neglect in other things, such as prayer, word of wisdom, &c. Felt to be one with his brethren and held himself in constant readiness to answer the calls of the First Presidency and the president of his quorum.... (1)

-- Sunday, Apr 12, 1903
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Price, Utah. Clear and cold. 8:30 a.m. Meeting of the high council at Pres. [Reuben G.] Miller's, Pres. Miller presiding. A resolution in regard to the liquor traffic was passed. The resolution provided that members of the church engaged in the saloon business and all who patronized saloons were to be handled on their fellowship, if they did not repent. A resolution to support the Mammoth Reservoir scheme and canal was also passed. By this enterprise it was shown that 10,000 acres of land would be brought under cultivation and reclaimed.... (1)

-- Thursday, Jun 11, 1903
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...Elder Jno. H. Smith said that he attended fast meeting at the temple last Sunday a.m.; 22 testimonies were borne and it was very choice meeting. In the afternoon attended fast meeting in the 17th Ward and in the evening was present at a special meeting of the young people of the Granite Stake at the Farmers Ward. There were at least 1000 present. Speaking of the young people, Elder Smith alluded to the effort now being made to keep Saltair free from liquor. Notwithstanding this, a strong effort is being made to induce our young people to visit the Lagoon and Calder's Park. The latter place, he said, is a veritable hell-hole. It is said that some 400 people there upon a recent occasion were intoxicated.... (1)

-- Thursday, Jun 18, 1903
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Salt Lake City. Clear and warm. 10:20 a.m. Meeting at the temple. Present: Presidents Jno. R. Winder and Anthon H. Lund, and Elders Jno. H. Smith, Abraham O. Woodruff, Rudger Clawson, Reed Smoot, Hy. M. Smith, the Patriarch [John Smith], and the clerk. The brethren clothed and sang, "Jesus Once of Humble Birth." Elder Smoot was mouth in prayer, and Elder Hy. M. Smith was mouth at the altar. The brethren disrobed and sang, "Captain of Israel's Host and Guide." Minutes of June 11, 1903, were read and approved.

...Elder Woodruff said that on Saturday last he assisted in laying the southeast cornerstone of the Wellsville meeting house. In the afternoon a feast was spread for the old folks. At this point Elder Woodruff recommended that Brother [William H.] Maughan, former bishop of Wellsville, be ordained a patriarch. It was known that Brother Maughan had been addicted more or less to the use of liquor and tobacco, and it became a question of worthiness on his part to receive the patriarchal office. The matter was laid over for the present. (1)

LDS History Chronology: the Word of Wisdom

Mormon Timeline: the Word of Wisdom
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

History of the Word of Wisdom, Thursdays Oct 30, 1902

-- Thursdays Oct 30, 1902
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...Apostle Smoot said that the temperance people of Provo desired Elder Jos. B. Keeler to join with them in this movement, and that Brother Keeler wished to know how far it might be proper for him to go. In view of the fact that the Mormon people are in every sense a temperance people, it was thought best for Elder Keeler to hold himself aloof from alliance with this movement.... (1)

-- Oct. 31, 1902
[Temple] It is for you to use your own discretion in the matter of giving recommends to the temple. You may consistently decline to give recommends to men who openly and flagrantly disregard the Word of Wisdom. * Very old men in whom the tobacco habit may have become part of their nature, and who may regard it as a great hardship to be required to abstain from its use in order to receive your recommendation to the temple, should at least be willing to curtail themselves as much as they possibly can, and promise to cleanse themselves from the tobacco odor and not to use it at all the days they do work in the temple. As to drunkenness, we certainly think you should draw the line there. Let all such men know that they are unworthy to enter the temple and if they feel themselves too weak to overcome this sinful practice they had better acknowledge themselves failures and turn their temple work over to their children to do it for them. [Joseph F. Smith, John R. Winder, and Anthon
H. Lund to John W. Hess, Oct. 31, 1902] (2)

-- Thursday, Dec 18, 1902
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ... Pres. Smith further remarked that those who present themselves at the temple for blessings who appear to be unworthy (as, for instance, under the influence of liquor or tobacco, &c.) should be put on probation. Presidents Winder and Merrill at the temples should act as a check upon the presidents of stakes in regard to this matter.... (1)

-- Thursday, Jan 22, 1903
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Salt Lake City. Cloudy, thawing. 10:40 a.m. Meeting at the temple. Present: Presidents Jos. F. Smith, Anthon H. Lund, and Jno. R. Winder, and Elders Jno. H. Smith, Geo. Teasdale, Marriner W. Merrill, Matthias F. Cowley, Abraham O. Woodruff, Rudger Clawson, Reed Smoot, Hyrum M. Smith, Jno. Smith, patriarch, and the clerk.

There was an informal talk about the election of Reed Smoot as United States senator from Utah. The very pleasing information was conveyed to the brethren that the campaign of Brother Smoot was conducted absolutely without bribery or liquor. There was only one attempt at bribery, and that was in the case of one of the legislators who sent word to Elder Smoot that, if he would use his influence to have said party appointed chairman of the committees on railroads, he would in return vote for him. Brother Smoot immediately turned him down by sending word that, so far as his influence had any weight, he would oppose his appointment to said committee in any capacity and further that he did not want his vote.... (1)

Footnotes:
1 - Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson
2 - Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/mo-temple

LDS History Chronology: the Word of Wisdom

Mormon Timeline: the Word of Wisdom
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

History of the Word of Wisdom, Thursday, Jun 26, 1902

-- Thursday, Jun 26, 1902
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...The tables were then spread for the sacrament, and Apostle Grant blessed the bread and wine. The brethren spent a very enjoyable time in partaking of the Lord's supper. Before separating Apostle Grant announced that at 1:30 he expected to seal his daughter [Lucy Grant] to [George J. Cannon] a son of Abraham H. Cannon and he extended a cordial invitation to the Presidency and the Twelve and their wives to attend the wedding reception at his home at 5 p.m. Benediction was offered by Pres. Young.

Later the minutes of the meeting of the Apostles were read and approved, and an adjournment taken until Sep. 30, 1902. Benediction by Apostle Woodruff. (1)

-- Monday, Aug 11, 1902
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Lewisville, Idaho. Clear and cool. 10 a.m. Continuation of [Bingham Stake] Conference, Pres. [James E.] Steele presiding.

Sister Edna Smith of Salt Lake. Topics. The power of prayer. Girls should make confidantes of their mothers and keep good company. They should avoid young men who smoke, drink, and swear. The Primary associations. (1)

-- Sunday, Aug 31, 1902
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...made remarks in relation to the sacrament, explaining why water was substituted for wine, and quoted the revelation bearing upon this question. ... (1)

-- Tuesday, Sep 30, 1902
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...Apostle Jno. H. Smith was the first speaker. He said that Brother Teasdale and himself had called upon Brother Brigham this morning and found him somewhat improved. He had intended to be present at our conference today, but the doctor absolutely forbid it. The spirit of Pres. Smith during his southern tour has prompted him to dwell on temporal things. He has spoken powerfully upon the word of wisdom, tithing, and kindred subjects, as also the brethren who were with him; much good counsel was given in regard to making improvements.... (1)

-- Thursday, Oct 2, 1902
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...Benediction by Apostle Hyrum M. Smith. After the tables were set, the brethren partook of the sacrament, the bread and wine having been blessed by Apostle Teasdale.... (1)

LDS History Chronology: the Word of Wisdom

Mormon Timeline: the Word of Wisdom
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

History of the Word of Wisdom, Thursday, Apr 3, 1902

-- Thursday, Apr 3, 1902
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...The brethren at this point sat down to the sacrament, Pres. Brigham Young being mouth in blessing the bread and wine. Adjourned until July 1, 1902, at 10 a.m. (1)

-- Sunday, May 4, 1902
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Teasdale. ...At 5:30 p.m. weâ€"Brother [Joseph W.] McMurrin and myselfâ€"had an interview with a young sister by the name of Nancy Hunt, who had been charged with the crime of incest with her father. The latter is now in the penitentiary, having been convicted in the courts of the land of said crime and sentenced to a term of ten years. From all we could learn, the evidence adduced pointed strongly to his guilt. The girl now comes to the church, claims she is innocent, and asks for justice. She gave birth to an illegitimate child, but claims that she was drugged and ravished by some stranger. Her story is very loose, and rather convinces one that she is lying. The matter was taken under advisement.

It was later decided to give Nancy Hunt a church trial, and the bishop of her wardâ€"Bp. [Levi C.] Whiteâ€"was instructed to institute early proceedings in the case. (1)

-- Thursday, Jun 5, 1902
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...Apostle Grant moved that in view of the fact that no liquor was being sold at the beach, it be the sense of the meeting that we request the First Presidency to instruct the bishops of adjacent wards that it would be expected of them to patronize Saltair the coming season and use their influence to have others to do so. Carried.... (1)

-- Sunday, Jun 15, 1902
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...Apostle Heber J. Grant. Topics treated. Showed how people can become familiar with vice. Rejoiced in the knowledge that liquor is no longer sold at Saltair.... (1)

-- Tuesday, Jun 24, 1902
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...Apostle Hyrum M. Smith was the first speaker. Topics treated. Felt to rely upon the Lord for his blessings. Was careful to remember his prayers in the season thereof. Hoped his children would grow up strong in the faith. In connection with his brothers and sisters, had been taught to observe the word of wisdom. Spoke of the ordinance of the administration for the sick and rejoiced in it. ... (1)

LDS History Chronology: the Word of Wisdom

Mormon Timeline: the Word of Wisdom
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

History of the Word of Wisdom, Friday, Oct 25, 1901

-- Friday, Oct 25, 1901
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...Address of welcome, Pres. F. Y. Taylor. He said in substance that the presidency of the Granite Stake had contemplated for some time the pleasure and propriety of having the high council of the stake together in a social capacity. And in connection with this idea they had concluded to invite the Presidency of the church and the Twelve and their wives to be present also, that the members of the council might have the privilege of shaking hands with them, and of extending a more intimate acquaintance with the general authorities of the church. He felt that such action would prove to be of great benefit to his brethren of the Granite Stake. He had to report, he said, that the presidency and high council of his stake were in perfect harmony and union, and that they were all observers of the word of wisdom and tithe-payers, and that the members of the council were laboring diligently with the presidency to build up and strengthen the elders' quoru
ms and other organizations of the stake.... (1)

-- Thursday, Nov 7, 1901
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...Apostle Clawson reported his recent visit to the Summit Stake Conference (last Sunday and Monday) and said that he found in that stake a spirit of improvement, growth, and progress. At the priesthood meeting on Saturday, when the brethren who kept the word of wisdom and paid tithing were asked to arise, all presentâ€"about 100â€"arose. He knew of no other stake, he said, that could stand such a test as thisâ€"and yet Summit Stake but recently stood at the foot of the class. Better still, Pres. Moses Taylor reported at that meeting that all the officers of the stakeâ€"about 400 in numberâ€"observed these laws of God... (1)

-- During 1901
(Susa Young Gates) Delegate to the International Council of Women in Copenhagen and London. In England she presented a paper, "Scientific Treatment of Domestic Science," and was invited to tea with Queen Victoria. (2)

-- Saturday, Jan 4, 1902
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Milford, Utah. Clear and cold. 6 a.m. Left by team for Beaver (32 miles distant), arriving at 10 a.m. It was a cold ride.

6 p.m. Meeting of the [Beaver Stake] high council in the high council chamber, Pres. C[harles] D. White presiding. The brethren were questioned as to their faith and as to how they stood on the word of wisdom, tithing, and family prayer, and other duties. The responses were generally quite satisfactory.... (1)

-- Thursday, Jan 9, 1902
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...At this point the tables were prepared and the brethren sat down to the sacrament, which was thoroughly appreciated and enjoyed. Apostle Jno. H. Smith blessed the bread and wine. Pres. Anthon H. Lund offered the benediction. (1)

Footnotes:
1 - Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson
2 - Van Wagoner, Richard and Walker, Steven C., A Book of Mormons, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies

LDS History Chronology: the Word of Wisdom

Mormon Timeline: the Word of Wisdom
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

History of the Word of Wisdom, Sunday, Aug 4, 1901

-- Sunday, Aug 4, 1901
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...At the close of the meeting we called the brethren and sisters together who had been chosen to fill the various offices of the stake. There were 31 present. I spoke and questioned the brethren as to whether they felt to sustain the First Presidency and Apostles, and also as to whether they paid their tithing and kept the word of wisdom. It developed that there was one brother present who failed to keep the Word of Wisdom, but he promised to do so in the future. Apostle Cowley admonished the brethren against profanity. (1)

-- Sunday, Aug 11, 1901
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Oakley. Clear and warm, but cool at night. 2 p.m. Continuation of [Cassia Stake] Conference, Pres. Wm. T. Jack presiding.

I made remarks. Topics treated. Regrets. Also the evil of a wasted life, giving the example of a young man who had entered into the higher law, having had two lovely wives and some fine children. He was also gifted with a talent for music (instrumental). This man committed himself, went into darkness, lost his wives and children and hope of future reward, dying in the gutter, the victim of alcohol.

Closing remarks were made by Pres. Jack. Thus dosed an interesting and instructive conference. (1)

-- Aug 11, 1901
Of men attending stake priesthood meeting, one-third admit they do not observe Word of Wisdom. (2)

-- Sunday, Aug 25, 1901
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Hyrum, Cache County

At 9 a.m. the Sunday School convened in the Grove on the Square. I spoke to them for a short time.

At 10 a.m. the Hyrum Stake conference convened. M. W. Merrill, Prest. Morrell of Cache stake and J. Golden Kimball and myself were in attendance.

Praycr by Patriarch Henry Hughes. Several of the brethren and Sisters spoke and I followed for about 25 minutes. Benediction by H. C. Jackson

3 p.m. Prayer by O. N. Liljenquist. The sacrament was administered. J. Golden Kimball and M. W. Merrill took up the time in good talks. Benediction by Elias S. Kimball.

At 7:30 p.m. we held a young people's Conference.

Prayer by Chas. C. Shaw. The speakers were John H. Maughan, Willard Israelson, Orson M. Wilson, Annie M. Ralph and Rose Liljenquist. J. Golden Kimball and I spoke. I made a talk on the Word of Wisdom. Benediction by Prest. Wm. C. Parkinson. (3)

-- Thursday, Oct 24, 1901
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...After some discussion it was decided that the balance due on the Brigham Young Memorial be brought forward and presented at the special conference on Nov. 10th. At this juncture Elder Hyrum M. Smith came in, and Apostle Jno. H. Smith by request informed him that he had been chosen an apostle and proceeded to deliver the usual charge, in brief as follows, to wit:

Brother Hyrum Smith, it is presumed that you are a moral man, that you observe the word of wisdom, that you subscribe to the principles of the gospel, that you accept the principle of plural marriage, and that you uphold and sustain in your heart the First Presidency, the Twelve, the patriarch, and other general authorities of the church. You are to be ready at any time to go and to come at the call of the Presidency. Your heart must be given to your God, your loyalty must never be questioned. You must be God-fearing, honest, just, and a tithe-payer.... (1)

Footnotes:
1 - Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson
2 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com
3 - Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith

LDS History Chronology: the Word of Wisdom

Mormon Timeline: the Word of Wisdom
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

History of the Word of Wisdom, Thursday, Mar 21, 1901

-- Thursday, Mar 21, 1901
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ... The clerk read a letter addressed by Reuben A. McBride to Pres. [Ira N.] Hinckley of the Millard Stake. He asked to be reinstated in the church and have his former blessings and priesthood sealed upon him. The status of the case may be given in a few words. Some 13 years ago he was cut off the church for the crime of murder committed while under the influence of liquor. It seems that in a moment of anger, while intoxicated, he killed a man by the name of Speed for striking his son. He was tried, convicted, and sentenced to 10 years imprisonment, but, after serving three years, was pardoned. He has since led a temperate life, is repentant, and desires reinstatement in the church. After some discussion the matter was referred to the presidency and high council of the Millard Stake for action. It was, however, decided that in any event he could only receive a standing in the church and would not be entitled to receive the priesthood.

Song, "Lord, Dismiss Us with Thy Blessing." Benediction by myself. (1)

-- Thursday, Apr 4, 1901
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...The sacrament was then administered, Pres. J. F. Smith being month in pronouncing the blessing upon the bread and wine. While at the table I moved that the following brethren be sustained as the presidency of the Big Horn Stake (it having been previously moved and carried that the Big Horn colonies be organized into a stake of Zion): Byron Sessions, president; Jesse W. Crosby, 1st counselor; and [Charles A.] Welsch, 2nd counselor. Carried by unanimous vote.

Benediction by Apostle B. Young, Jr. After the reading of the minutes, the meeting adjourned for three months. (1)

-- May 14, 1901
[Temple] In my opinion the man who pays but twenty five percent of his tithing and has been in the habit of using tobacco and getting drunk, but who is trying to quit these bad habits, and has partially succeeded, should be encouraged to continue in well doing until he is fully worthy to go to the temple before he should be recommended. [Lorenzo Snow to William H. Smart, May 14, 1901] (2)

-- Thursday, Jun 13, 1901
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...In order to establish uniform procedure throughout the church relative to the manner of blessing the bread and wine in the administration of the sacrament, it was decided that one, and one onlyâ€"the party officiatingâ€"should kneel. Benediction by Apostle B. Young. (1)

-- Tuesday, Jul 9, 1901
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...Some discussion was indulged in regarding Saltair, with reference particularly to the selling of beer at that resort. It was moved and carried that it be the sense of the meeting that the brethren of the Twelve are opposed to the selling of beer at Saltair.... (1)

Footnotes:
1 - Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson
2 - Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/mo-temple

LDS History Chronology: the Word of Wisdom

Mormon Timeline: the Word of Wisdom
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

History of the Word of Wisdom, Wednesday, Jan 9, 1901

-- Wednesday, Jan 9, 1901
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Salt Lake City

All of the Twelve Apostles met at their room in the Temple except Marriner W. Merrill at 10 a.m. Prayer by George Teasdale. He also spoke on the Words of Wisdom and the payment of Tithing.

Brigham Young said that the Word of Wisdom was a commandment.

Francis M. Lyman spoke upon the rights of the Priesthood. Heber J. Grant spoke in favor of organizing a life Insurance Company and extending the usefullness of the Deseret News.

I made a motion that we suggest to the Trustee in Trust that we don't sell any Liquor at Saltair for one year. We talked of making changes in several of the stakes. (1)

[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...Apostle Grant said he thought it but proper when Pres. Snow asked for suggestions, we should give them and leave it for the Lord to decide. Advocated the organization of a home life insurance company. Spoke against the selling of liquor at Saltair.

Apostle J. H. Smith moved that it be the sense of the council that we recommend to Pres. Snow that no liquor be sold at Saltair during 1901 as an experiment. Carried by full vote.... (2)

-- Thursday, Jan 10, 1901
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Salt Lake City

The Apostles met in their room in the Temple at 10 a.m. Prayer by Heber J. Grant.

Marriner W. Merrill spoke, said he had 21 sons living and 17 of them were married and they were all Tithe payers. Anthon H. Lund read a letter from Prest. Peterson of the Scandinavian Mission which said that some Elders had arrived in that field having the small pox, which they had scattered some.

President Lorenzo Snow and Joseph F. Smith joined us.

After some discussion we decided to deride the Cache stake.

The brethren discussed quite freely the question of making some changes in the method of our mission work.

We partook of the sacrament together, President Lorenzo Snow blessing the bread and Wine. (1)

[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...Sacrament was then administered, Pres. Lorenzo Snow being mouth in blessing the bread and wine. We had a very enjoyable time together, and much business of importance was transacted. The conference was adjourned for three months. (2)

-- Feb 1, 1901
First Presidency decides to suspend ten-year policy of allowing sale of alcohol at church-s Saltair amusement park and resort. (3)

Footnotes:
1 - Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith
2 - Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson
3 - Advent Adam website (defunct) - based on http://amzn.to/originsofpower

LDS History Chronology: the Word of Wisdom

Mormon Timeline: the Word of Wisdom
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

History of the Word of Wisdom, Wednesday, Oct 3, 1900

-- Wednesday, Oct 3, 1900
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...Apostle H. J. Grant was the next speaker. Felt, he said, that those who fail to observe the word of wisdom and pay their tithing ought not to be sustained in presiding positions. He endorsed Brother Brigham's suggestion that we should note down important subjects to be brought before the saintsâ€"always being subject to the inspiration of the Spirit. Dwelt briefly upon the subjects of Sabbath breaking and immorality. Said he thought that each member of the quorum should make an effort to visit every stake of Zion. Benediction by Apostle M. F. Cowley.... (1)

-- Thursday, Oct 4, 1900
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...The tables were spread and the sacrament administered, Apostle B. Young being mouth in blessing the bread and wine. While at the table Pres. Snow made brief remarks. He spoke of the union of the brethren and said we witness today that which has seldom been seen in the world, namely, the perfect union of 15 menâ€"the First Presidency and Twelve. He was sure, he said, that the Lord was pleased with our union, and in this union the brethren are in advance of the Twelve who were with the Savior. There were heartburnings and divisions among them..... (1)

-- Thursday, Dec 6, 1900
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...Apostle H. J. Grant made some remarks in regard to Saltair and said that, in engaging a manager for next year, he thought it should be distinctly understood that no liquor should be sold there. This seemed to be the mind of most all the brethren present. President Snow said that, while he was personally in favor of restricting the liquor traffic, when we deal with people outside the church as well as those inside, we have to be wise and get along the best we can.... (1)

-- Sunday, Dec 30, 1900
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Salt Lake City. Snowstorm during the night. We are still working assiduously with the swelling on Lydia's breast. I administer to her daily when at home, and she employs the application of hot water, liniment, and other things, also taking iron and wine for her blood. We feel that it is a matter that requires serious attention, as well as the exercise of great faith. (1)

-- During 1900 to 1920
[Third Parties in Utah] Ironically, one third party which has never done particularly well in Utah was the Prohibition party. Despite several attempts, and occasional ballot status, in the 1900 to 1920 period, prohibitionists have not been successful in appealing to the Utah electorate, although many of the state's residents are abstainers from alcohol. (2)

Footnotes:
1 - Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson
2 - Utah History Encyclopedia: Third Parties in Utah, http://www.media.utah.edu/UHE/t/THIRDPARTIES.html

LDS History Chronology: the Word of Wisdom

Mormon Timeline: the Word of Wisdom
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

History of the Word of Wisdom, Sunday, May 13, 1900

-- Sunday, May 13, 1900
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...2 p.m. Continuation of conference, Pres. A. Hatch presiding. The speakers were Pres. A. Hatch, Apostle Reed Smoot, and myself. Topics treated. A. H[atch]. Financial condition of the stake [was] good and spiritual condition fair. The tithing paid in 1897, $7,700; in 1898, $7,900; in 1899, $14,399. Word of Wisdom. Large number of missionaries from the Wasatch Stake in the field. The saloon evil.

R. S[moot]. Expressed a desire to magnify the office of an apostle. The great evil existing in the world and to some extent among our people of restricting and limiting by unlawful means the number of children in our families; warned the saints against the practice. The evil growing out of club life and secret societies. Word of wisdom. Virtue among the Jews. The judgments of God being poured out upon the nations.... (1)

-- Thursday, Jul 12, 1900
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...The tables were then spread with bread and wine and the sacrament was administered. Pres. J. F. Smith was mouth in blessing the bread and wine. At the conclusion Apostle F. M. Lyman offered the benediction. (1)

-- Friday, Aug 17, 1900
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Salt Lake City

A couple of Protestant Ministers called upon President Lorenzo Snow and talked over the situation at Saltair, as to the selling of Liquor and chance games. Presidents Joseph F. Smith and Seymour B. Young having returned from Mexico, made a report as to the Cluff Expedition. Part of them will return home and part will continue the journey. (2)

-- Friday, Aug 31, 1900
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Salt Lake City

Twenty elders were set apart for Missions today at the Annex of the Temple by myself, Rudger Clawson, Seymour B. Young and J. Golden Kimball.

I ordained as Seventies and set apart for Missions Walter J. Kelley, Wm. F. Fisher Jr., Martin P. Henderson, Martin L. Lee and Ebenezer A. child.

My son Nicholas G. returned from working at a sawmill in San Pete Co. for the past 2 months and a half. Josephine and I drove up to the cave spring in City Creek Canyon.

I was at the office of the Groesbeck Co. for a time during the evening. My brother C. W. Smith had made an arrest of a drunken rowdy and had him fined.

My son Ezra Chase's wife gave birth to a daughter at 2 a.m. today. (2)

-- Thursday, Sep 27, 1900
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...Report of Elders C. W. Penrose [and ?] concerning the charges made by Elder Platte D. Lyman against Elder Walter Romney was read. They found upon careful investigation, and so far as they could judge, that he had drunk mild beer to some extent while in Germany on his mission but never was intoxicated; that he did not gamble; that in company with other elders upon one occasion to satisfy curiosity he looked into a house of ill-fame; that he played a game or two of cards while on the ship returning home. A copy of the report, the clerk said, had been sent to Pres. P. D. Lyman. No action taken.... (1)

LDS History Chronology: the Word of Wisdom

Mormon Timeline: the Word of Wisdom
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

History of the Word of Wisdom, Apr 5, 1900

-- Apr 5, 1900
[Apostle Marriner W. Merrill Diary] Salt Lake City. I attended meeting with First Presidency and Twelve today. Several matters were discussed and decided. One subject decided after full discussion was that Joseph F. Smith stood ahead and outranked Brigham Young in the Quorum of Apostles. The vote was unanimous. After business we partook of bread and wine. We adjourned at 3 p. m. ... (1)

-- Thursday, Apr 5, 1900
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...The tables were spread and the brethren partook of the sacrament of the Lord's Supper. A spirit of perfect peace and union prevailed and it was a very enjoyable affair. Apostle B. Young was mouth in blessing the bread and wine. At the conclusion Apostle J. H. Smith offered the benediction.... (2)

-- Apr 5, 1900
First Presidency and Twelve decide that apostolic ranking is according to entry into quorum, not according to ordination date as apostle. This puts Joseph F. Smith ahead of Brigham Young, Jr.-first time in thirty-three years. After this decision the apostles "partook of bread and wine." (3)

-- Apr 17, 1900
Brigham Young Academy president Benjamin Cluff Jr. along with a company of two teachers and about twenty students leave Provo expecting to be gone for two years. Their destination is South America where they hope to locate rivers, cities, and places that would "throw light on the divine claims of the Book of Mormon." When the expedition reaches Spanish Fork they are received with a Brass Band and a Banquet in their honor. They are received with so many banquets that they don't cook their own food until eleven days into the journey. At the Mexican Border Cluff negotiates with border officials to allow passage through Mexico while the rest of the group boards with church members in Thatcher, Arizona. Cluff lingers in Mexico hoping to marry a polygamous third wife, Florence Reynolds, daughter of George Reynolds, and one of his former students. Florence had been using his last name for the previous year. While Cluff is in Colonia Diaz, he orders other expedition members to begin
proselyting in Thatcher. The students discover why Cluff had prolonged his stay and became disheartened and angry. His assistant, Professor Walter Wolfe, reacts to the news of Cluff's delay by escaping to Nogales for an "extended three-day alcoholic spree." Wolfe (who had been told in a dream that he would find gold plates on the expedition and be able to translate them) later sells his mule to buy liquor. The students determine not to do any more missionary work and "took every opportunity to visit with the young ladies and to attend the weekly dances" in Thatcher. Apostle Heber J. Grant learns of the expedition's behavior while traveling in Arizona. He informs President Lorenzo Snow who sends Second Councilor Joseph F. Smith. Smith authorizes Cluff's plural marriage but instructs the group to either disband or proceed on their own as a "purely scientific" group without church endorsement. Most return to Provo but Cluff and five others press on to Columbia. A week after arr
iving, all but one student, Chester Van Buren, return to Utah. Van Buren remains in Colombia long enough to conduct scientific investigations. When he finally returns to Provo, his wildlife specimens become a prized collection. Cluff is censured by the Board of Trustees for "unwarranted use of authority" and is kept as Brigham Young Academy's president for only one more year. One of his last official acts is to change the name to "Brigham Young University." (3)

Footnotes:
1 - Notes from the Miscellaneous Record Book, 1886-1906: Selected diary notes from the journal books of Marriner Wood Merrill, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
2 - Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1993, http://bit.ly/rudgerclawson
3 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com

LDS History Chronology: the Word of Wisdom

Mormon Timeline: the Word of Wisdom
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

History of the Word of Wisdom, Thursday, Jan 11, 1900

-- Thursday, Jan 11, 1900
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...The tables were then set for the sacrament, and Pres. B. Young, Jr, was mouth in blessing the bread and wine, after which the brethren partook freely of the same. Before the brethren withdrew from the table, Pres. Cannon by request made brief remarks. ... (1)

-- Sunday, Jan 28, 1900
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Washington, D.C.

I was at the Hotel most of the day. I called up B. H. Roberts at the Metropolitan Hotel and found Senator Jos. L. Rawlins there. I had a short visit [with] them.

In the evening I gave a supper. The guests were Senator Joseph L. Rawlins, Genl. J. S. Clarkson, Judge G. W. Bartch, B. H. Roberts and H. B. Clawson. It cost $2.50 a plate, $5.00 room, and dollar each for three servants. We had a nice supper of some 12 courses.

All refused wine. (2)

-- Thursday, Mar 29, 1900
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Salt Lake City. Clear and cold. 11 a.m. Meeting at the temple. Present: the First Presidency, Apostles B. Young, Jr., F. M. Lyman, J. H. Smith, Geo. Teasdale, H. J. Grant, J. W. Taylor, A. H. Lund, A. O. Woodruff, R. Clawson, and G. F. Gibbs, clerk. Song. Apostle B. Young, Jr., mouth in prayer, and H. J. Grant mouth in the circle. Song.

A letter from Chas. U. Locander of Juarez, Mexico, was read. He complained of not receiving a reply to certain letters he had written to the First Presidency in which he had made some complaints of certain wrongs he had suffered. The letter was threatening in tone. The matter was referred to Apostle J. H. Smith and Pres. A. W. Ivins of the Juarez Stake.

A letter from the Presiding Bishopric was read. They complained of the manner in which the tithes of the Eagar Ward, St. Johns Stake, had been handled by Bp. [George H.] Crosby. Brother Crosby had moved away from that ward, and he had been talked of for bishop in another stake. The matter was referred to Apostle F. M. Lyman.

A suggestion was made by Apostle H. J. Grant that the assembly hall, with some changes, be occupied by the Latter-day Saints College. The matter was deferred for the present.

Apostle J. H. Smith reported his visit to the Fremont Stake. Said the high council of the Fremont Stake was released and reorganized. The change was made necessary owing to the status of some of its members. A number of the council was in the habit of getting drunk; others neglected the law of tithing. Two of the old council were brought in again.

I called attention to the fact that the free-will offerings at the Salt Lake Temple for the year 1898 amounted to $5807.25, and for the year 1899, $6856.83; that the total membership of the church in the stakes of the temple district was 78,915. The amount contributed per capita was, therefore, between 8c and 9c per year. I thought this a poor showing and suggested that there were a great many who would contribute if the matter was properly brought to their attention. It seemed to be the mind of the brethren that it would be better to preach up tithing rather than to make an effort in the direction of the free-will offerings to the temple. Pres. Snow stated that there were 10,000 non-tithe-payers in 1899. The apostles should take up this matter in the stakes. It was reported that there were 30,000 non-tithe-payers in 1898. The number of tithe-payers in 1899 were 62,000.

Apostle J. W. Taylor reported that the Cache Stake was in bad shape through the incapacity of a number of the bishops. A committee of three apostles, namely, Apostles F. M. Lyman, Jno. W. Taylor, and M. W. Merrill (who is also president of the Cache Stake) were appointed to investigate the matter, and report to the Presidency such changes in the bishopric of that stake as might seem desirable. Benediction by Apostle J. W. Taylor. (1)

LDS History Chronology: the Word of Wisdom

Mormon Timeline: the Word of Wisdom
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

History of the Word of Wisdom, Thursday, Oct 5, 1899

-- Thursday, Oct 5, 1899
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...The tables were then spread with bread and wine, and the Lord's Supper was partaken of, Pres. Cannon being mouth in asking the blessing. We had a very enjoyable time together. During the time we were at the table several topics were discussed. ... (1)

-- Sunday, Dec 10, 1899
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Brigham City. Cloudy and cold. 9 a.m. I took train for Beaver Ward to attend the dedication of the new meeting house ...1:30 p.m. Meeting called to order by Bp. Durfey. Dedicatory prayer by myself. The speakers were Elder Jacob Jensen, myself, and Apostle J. H. Smith. Topics treated. J. J[ensen]. The new house should be kept clean and pureâ€"free from liquor and profanity.... (1)

-- Dec 27, 1899
[U.S. Religious History] Carry Nation, a leader of the American Christian temperance movement, raided and wrecked her first saloon in Medicine Lodge, Kansas. (2)

-- Thursday, Jan 4, 1900
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Salt Lake City. Clear and mild; thawing. 11 a.m. Meeting of the brethren at the temple. Present: the First Presidency, Apostles B. Young, Jr., F. M. Lyman, J. H. Smith, Geo. Teasdale, H. J. Grant, A. H. Lund, Jno. W. Taylor, A. O. Woodruff, R. Clawson, and G. F. Gibbs, clerk. The brethren robed. Pres. Snow was mouth in prayer, and Apostle J. H. Smith was mouth in the circle, after which the brethren disrobed. Song, "Let Us Pray, Gladly Pray."

Pres. Snow said a proposition had been made to the board of directors of the Saltair Beach Co. and the Salt Lake and Los Angeles Ry. Co. by Brother W. J. Bateman and a Mr. [Charles W.] Miller to the effect that they would lease Saltair beach and the railroad, giving to the stockholders 75% of the net earnings and guaranteeing $8,000.00 a year. N[ephi]. W. Clayton, the present manager, objected, he said, on the ground that they were not reliable. Later on the two parties above mentioned made a second offer, namely, that they would manage the properties at a salary of $150.00 each per month. N. W. Clayton offered to manage the properties without compensation, if the directors desired him to do so. As to the propositions submitted, no decision was reached at the board meeting referred to, but inasmuch as the church was the largest stockholderâ€"owning almost wholly both propertiesâ€"it was decided to refer the matter to Pres. Snow.

Pres. Snow now submitted the matter to the Presidency and Twelve. He said that from all he could learn the gentlemen who had made the proposition were perfectly reliable and were also familiar with the business. The clerk read communications from Bateman and Miller making the propositions referred to. Some of the brethren testified that N. W. Clayton was in the habit of getting drunk and they felt by continuing him in the management it would bring reproach upon the church, as it had already done. This feeling was shared by all present. After some discussion, it was moved by Apostle J. H. Smith and seconded [by] Apostle F. M. Lyman that the resignations of N. W. Clayton, Manager, and I. A. Clayton, Treas., be asked for and accepted. Carried by unanimous vote. A sentiment prevailed favoring the acceptance of Bateman and Miller's proposition, or rather, their second proposition.

Apostle H. J. Grant stated that he had an opportunity to lease the Salt Lake Theatre to Mr. [Martin] Mulvey, manager of the New Grand Opera House, for a period of ten years to good advantage, and, if the brethren had no objections, thought he would do so. He would prefer, he said, to sell the church a controlling interest in the propertyâ€"namely 51 shares or $51,000.00â€"but his circumstances were such he had to do something. He called attention to the fact that he had a $30,000.00 note at Zion's Saving Bank, a $12,000.00 note with the Trustee-in-Trust, and suggested that these notes be turned over to him for theatre stock and that the Trustee-in-Trust buy enough more to give the church the controlling interest. After some discussion it was moved by Pres. Jos. F. Smith that the suggestion made by Apostle Grant be adopted, providing after due consideration it met with the approval of Pres. Snow. Carried by unanimous vote. Benediction by Apostle A. O. Woodruff. (1)

LDS History Chronology: the Word of Wisdom

Mormon Timeline: the Word of Wisdom
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

History of the Word of Wisdom, Thursday, Jul 13, 1899

-- Thursday, Jul 13, 1899
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...The sacrament was then partaken of. Pres. Jos. F. Smith was mouth in blessing the bread and wine, which was supplied in sufficient abundance to satisfy all present. A very enjoyable time was passed at the table, after which an adjournment was taken, Pres. F. D. Richards offering the benediction. (1)

-- Sunday, Jul 16, 1899
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Richfield. Clear and warm. 9 a.m. Sunday School session at the tabernacle. The First Presidency and other authorities present. A large number of beautiful children were assembled. School called to order by Asst. Stake Supt., Chariton Seegmiller.

Pres. Snow said that he was over 85 years of age and that the little children before him, if they would do right, could live to be 85, 95, 100 years and longer. Advised them to pay tithing on all money they received.

Pres. Cannon made brief remarks on the word of wisdom, prayer, and obedience. The children were given the opportunity to shake hands with Pres. Snow and 717 enjoyed the privilege..... (1)

-- Thursday, Jul 27, 1899
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] 11 a.m. Meeting of the brethren at the temple. Present: the First Presidency, Pres. F. D. Richards, Apostles F. M. Lyman, J. H. Smith, Geo. Teasdale, A. H. Lund, M. F. Cowley, R. Clawson, and G. F. Gibbs, clerk.

I reported my recent visit to the stake Sunday School conference of the Box Elder Stake, July 22 and 23. One of the most interesting features of the conference was the report of the Stake Supt. of Sunday Schools, L. A. Snow, to the effect that out of 425 officers and teachers in the Sunday Schools, all were observers of the Word of Wisdom. The Box Elder Stake, I remarked, was the first stake in Zion that was able to make this report.... (1)

-- Sunday, Sep 3, 1899
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Mount Pleasant. Clear and warm. 9 a.m. Meeting of the Sunday School children [of San Pete Stake] at the pavilion.

Pres. Snow was the first speaker. Admonished the children to be kind and loving to their parents, and to listen to the counsel of their teachers, and if they would do this, he promised them that they would live long upon the earth.

Pres. Jos. F. Smith counseled the children to keep the Word of Wisdom. Also spoke upon the martyrdom of Joseph Smith, the Prophet. The children were then given an opportunity to shake hands with Pres. Snow, and there were 778 who did so.

Having been troubled continuously with the rheumatism in my foot since leaving home, I decided to return to Salt Lake on the 2 p.m. train. The balance of the party will return tomorrow (Monday). (1)

-- Saturday, Sep 30, 1899
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Brigham City. Clear and cool. I had some further talk with Homer, who said that he had been down to Ogden to see the party who held the lease, but could do nothing with him, much to his regret. It was then decided that we use an influence with the city council to get them to raise the license for selling liquor, hoping in this way to shut him out. (1)

LDS History Chronology: the Word of Wisdom

Mormon Timeline: the Word of Wisdom
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

History of the Word of Wisdom, Thursday, Jan 12, 1899

-- Thursday, Jan 12, 1899
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...At this point the tables were spread and the brethren partook of the sacrament. After the bread and wine were blessed by Pres. Snow, [they] ate and drank freely until satisfied. It was indeed a time of refreshing and one long to be remembered. Benediction by Pres. Geo. Q. Cannon. (1)

-- Sunday, Mar 19, 1899
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ... Before returning to the meeting, we had a brief conversation with the bishopric respecting the Word of Wisdom and expressed the hope that the counselors would follow the example of Bp. Harper in keeping this commandment of the Lord.... (1)

-- Wednesday, Apr 5, 1899
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...At this point the First Presidency came in and, after some conversation in which it was decided by unanimous vote that Pres. Snow be authorized to appoint a committee to revise the next edition of the hymn book, sacrament was administered. The brethren sat around a table provided plentifully with bread and wine, which was blessed by Pres. Geo. Q. Cannon. We had a very enjoyable and profitable time together and adjourned at 2 p.m.... (1)

-- Friday, Apr 21, 1899
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ...Pres. Jos. F. Smith explained the object for which the Saltair Beach Pavilion was built. It was that we might be able to control in some degree the amusements and pleasures of the young. There was to be no traffic in liquor and no Sunday trains. These rules had the effect of driving away patronage, but at the same time interest had to be paid on the investment. It was, therefore, decided to rent bar privileges under stringent regulations and to put all attractions under proper control. All this was necessary to make the property pay interest on the investment. .... (1)

-- Wednesday, May 3, 1899
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] St. Louis, Missouri

President Ben E. Rich met us at the Union depot. We took rooms, got some breakfast and had a ride out to one of the parks.

My wife met with an accident in our room today by get[ting] some alcohol on fire and we had a narrow escape having a big blaze. I burned my hands some in putting out the fire. No great damage was done. (2)

LDS History Chronology: the Word of Wisdom

Mormon Timeline: the Word of Wisdom
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

History of the Word of Wisdom, May 5, 1898

-- May 5, 1898
The First Presidency and Twelve discussed the Word of Wisdom. One member reads from the twelfth volume of the Journal of Discourses a statement by Brigham Young that seems to support the notion that the Word of Wisdom was a commandment of God. Lorenzo Snow, then President of the Council of the Twelve agrees, saying that he believes the Word of Wisdom was a commandment and that it should be carried out to the letter. In doing so, he says, members should be taught to refrain from eating meat except in dire necessity, because Joseph Smith had taught that animals have spirits. Wilford Woodruff, then President of the Church, says he looks upon the Word of Wisdom as a commandment and that all members should observe it, but for the present, no definite action should be taken except that the members should be taught to refrain from meat. The minutes of the meeting record that "President Woodruff said he regarded the Word of Wisdom in its entirety as given of the Lord for the Latter-d
ay Saints to observe, but he did not think that Bishops should withhold recommends from persons who did not adhere strictly to it." (1)

-- Sep 2, 1898
Wilford Woodruff: Died 2 September 1898 at San Francisco, San Francisco County, California. (2)

-- Oct 1, 1898.
[Apostle Anthony W. Ivins Diary] ... Heber J. Grant had always paid his tithing with pleasure. Two dollars is spent in breaking the Word of Wisdom for every dollar paid in tithing.... (3)

-- Nov 6, 1898
[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] If I was glad last evening that I did not speak in the Theater this AM I feel to thank the Lord that I did not do so, BH Roberts' reply to Gov. Wells in this morning's Herald disgusts me almost if not quite as much as the Governor's speech did. Politics is a good thing to have nothing to do with. (went to American Fork, I started to speak but was called to the telephone simply to learn that JH Moyle wanted to talk with me. I returned to the meeting & spoke about an hour. [On train] I met Apostle Brigham Young on the train and we chatted together on the political situation. He agreed with me perfectly that Bro[ther] Wells had made a great mistake and that Bro[ther] Roberts had done equally as bad in replying the way that he had. About 11 I concluded to go downtown and chat with Ja[me]s H. Moyle I found him and BH Roberts Democratic Headquarters. I read Gov. Wells' reply to BH Roberts and what Roberts had written in reply to the reply and suggeste
d one or two slight modifications, but Roberts did not adopt my suggestions. I did not want him to use "Phillip drunk and Phillip sober" and one or two more expressions. I plainly told him in my opinion he had made a great mistake in replying to Bro[ther] Wells the way he had. It was after midnight when I got home. (4)

-- Jan 5, 1899
[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] Meeting of the apostles in the Temple at llam Pres[iden]ts Snow Cannon & Smith, Apostles Richards, Lyman, Smith, Teasdale, Taylor, Lund, Cowley, Woodruff, Clawson and myself were present. Apostle Lund presented [proposition for meeting house in Demmark approved.] John Henry Smith suggested that an auditing committee be appd. All of these who spoke on the proposition favored it very heartily. Pres Snow was decidedly in favor of such a Committee and said he was working in the dark. Wanted all of his transactions fully examined and audited. Said no one can be hurt by such a committee and some might be greatly benefitted. There may be some transactions that can be explained to our entire satisfaction during the life of Pres[iden]ts Cannon & Smith that could not be explained to our perfect satisfaction after their death. Pres[iden]t Snow appointed FD Richards, Francis M Lyman, John Henry Smith Rudger Clawson and me as the auditing committee. The disc
ussion took a very wide range (he said hurt by his allowance having been cut back without consultation, when had money gave generously,) now that I was ruined financially I felt my brethren should have been generous with me This afternoon attended a meeting at Pres[iden]t Snow's office where the affairs of the Sterling mine was fully discussed. The are in a very bad condition and as the Church has endorsed for a very large sum of money it looks as if it will be called on the make a large loss. Called at McCune headquarters and learned that Frank J. Cannon has been on a big drunk and visiting houses of ill fame. I hope and pray for his father's and mother's sake that these is nothing in this report. (4)

Footnotes:
1 - On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com
2 - Cook, Lyndon W., The Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith: A Historical and Biographical Commentary of the Doctrine and Covenants, Seventy's Mission Bookstore, Provo UT, 1985, http://amzn.to/RevelationsofJosephSmith
3 - Diary Excerpts of Anthony W. Ivins, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
4 - Diary Excerpts of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies

LDS History Chronology: the Word of Wisdom

Mormon Timeline: the Word of Wisdom
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

History of the Word of Wisdom, Jan 4, 1898

-- Jan 4, 1898
[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] President Lorenzo Snow . . . There are two things required of us as apostles, a perfect union among ourselves, and a perfect union with the First Presidency. If this [is brought about, may not need to die but be translated] He referred to the advanced age of Pres[iden]t Wilford Woodruff, and the fact that his first counselor Bro[ther] Geo[rge] Q. Cannon was doing some things that we could not approve of. This makes no difference as it is our duty to sustain him. The loss of $100,000 more or less is as nothing in comparison with our failing to sustain the First Presidency. Disunion in our midst would be sweet morsel for our enemies. It is the right of the twelve apostles to make known to the Presidency their suggestions on any matter of importance where the interest of the Church is at stake and in some cases it is our duty to express our feelings. After we have expressed our feelings it is then our duty to sustain the Presidency in their plans a
lthough they may be in opposition to our own feelings. After a free expression of our feelings we should sustain them, hit or miss, live or die. The Lord does not always select religious men to do His work, but he selects men of strong will and determination. I feel it in my bones that all will be well if we will be true to one other and sustain the First Presidency. Heber J. Grant . . . Expressed himself freely on the question of asking the Presidency to share their financial burdens with the apostles. Did not feel that it was right for men like Frank J. Cannon to be selected to represent the Church. Felt it was an outrage that Frank was used as he was and also that the Church's official paper should be edited by John Q. Cannon I expressed it as my opinion that we should ask the Presidency in a respectful manner for a knowledge of the affairs of the Church, and protest against such men as Frank Cannon being employed, and then if the Presidency did not wish to make any chang
es or to trust us with the business of the Church I was in for sustaining the Presidency. I explained that there was no malice in my heart and that I did not want to injure any man, but neither did I want any man to have the honor of the Church intrusted to him that was not worthy. I felt to say with reference to the Presidency. "Even though they slay me, yet will I trust in them." . . . George Teasdale stated that he had no desire to interfere with anything which did not concern him, and he would just as soon not know anything of the financial affairs of the Church unless it was his duty to know, and unless he was asked for advice he had no desire to try to give any. . . . John Henry Smith . . . We have all kinds of men in the presiding priesthood in the Church. We have the extremely spiritual and the extremely temporal. Some frank and open and some who are not frank. I desire in all of my conversations with my brethren to be perfectly free and frank. The Lord has been very
good indeed to Pres[iden]t Woodruff and I look upon him as a marvel and I feel to acknowledge the blessings of the Lord in preserving his life to such a good old age. As his first counselor we have one of the most gifted of men, perhaps no man among us who is as gifted as he is. He is a writer, a diplomat, and an author. The other counselor is a plain blunt man and is lacking in cunning and the ability to shape things to suit his opinions. I feel that there is one man in the Presidency and he is not the man at the lead who is at present dominating the affairs of the Church. If left to himself the question is would Prest. Woodruff have consented to have borrowed a million and a half for the Ogden Power Plant. Would he of his own accord have borrowed the money with which to build Saltair, and would he have spent several hundreds thousand dollars in a mine in Nevada. We all know that he would not have done these things. I fear that the great burdens which are now on Prest. Can
non are such that he has become desperate and he is plunging, so to speak It is my belief that the life of Prest. Woodruff can be prolonged if a part of the financial load that he is now carrying can be shifted to the shoulders of the apostles. He loved all of the members of the First Presidency and while he did not approve of all of the transactions of Pres[iden]t Cannon he would not do a thing to humiliate him, but he would like to see more confidence exhibited in the apostles by Prest. Cannon. He felt that as the lead would fall on the shoulders of the apostles in the event of the death of Pres[iden]t Woodruff that is no more than right that we should be consulted in all of the business affairs of the Church where they were of importance. Brigham Young . . . Felt outraged in his feeling to have a drunkard representing the Church as its agent in the east. I believe that it is the duty of the twelve apostles to ask the Presidency to correct these mistakes. Pres[iden]t Woodr
uff in his feeble condition and advanced age is depending entirely on Pres[iden]t Cannon to direct in all of these matters, and if the Pres[iden]t were to pass away we would humiliate Pres[iden]t Cannon into the dust by demanding that things be changed and he felt that the proper thing was to have the Presidency change the present men, and not put a change off until the death of Pres[iden]t Woodruff. . . . The mining business in Nevada, Saltair, Ogden Power Co. were all private enterprises to start with as I understand the matter, and when they did not prove successful I understand the Church's credit has been used to carry them, if the Church has not made a purchase of these properties. Never in my life have I felt to pray more earnestly for the Presidency of the Church than I do today. I am inclined to think that the best thing would be for Pres[iden]t Woodruff to appoint some one to act as Trustee in Trust and thus relieve himself entirely from all business matters. Frank
lin D. Richards appreciated the opportunities we have of meeting together once a quarter. I feel that we are near to the Lord here. There is a condition confronting us, and it is here, and while it is unpleasant to talk on such matters I feel that it is our duty to do so. The brethren who have spoken have clearly stated the condition of our affairs. You will all recall, brethren, that the contract with Mr. Clarkson to build a railroad to the Coast was brought before us, and we did not feel to approve of the Church going into debt to such a large amount, and Pres[iden]t Cannon was annoyed at our not being willing to approve of his scheme, and this may be one reason he does not care to bring matters to our attention, as he fears we will not approve of them. There is today a wonderful lack among the people in the faith which they should have in the financial wisdom of the Church at the present time, and we should not lose sight of this fact. I feel that nearly every step that i
s being taken in a financial way is impairing the faith of the people and that is placing us in a false light, as we stand between the Presidency and the people, and the people expect us to know a put these things. There is a feeling of apprehension and the leading financial men in the church are beginning to lose confidence. I have no faith that it will assist matters to relieve Pres[iden]t Woodruff as Trustee in Trust, I feel that we must be united and stand by the Presidency and uphold Pres[iden]t Woodruff in his position as Trustee as it is his right to occupy that position, and I fear that it would weaken us if any change were to be made in the direction of making a new Trustee in Trust for the Church. Regarding Frank J. Cannon I wish to say that as he is a United States Senator that he is looked upon by men in the world as a wonderful man, and that it may be in the providences of the Lord that he can do more for the Church financially than any one of us can do. I feel
like being one with you my brethren in all things, and I could like to see our business matters changed around so that we could make a report of our affairs to the people, and not have everything in the card as it now is, that is so far as the saints knowing anything of our aff
airs. In days gone by there were reports made to the saints and these were appreciated and it was calculated to inspire confidence. Today many men will not pay their tithings because they feel that the money is not used in the proper way. I have prayed that Pres[iden]t Woodruff might live to see the debts of the Church all paid. Grant I am confident that there is not one man in the quorum of the apostles, but what would do anything on earth that was in his power for Pres[iden]t Cannon, and yet there is a lack of confidence in our hearts because of his failure to be perfectly free and frank in talking with us. He seems to lack confidence in us, and I suppose that is one of the main reasons that we have not the most perfect confidence in him. I well remember the time we had at the death of Pres[iden]t Taylor and the part I took in the troubles with Pres[iden]t Cannon and with all my heart I hope and pray that I may not be guilty of accusing my brother again as I did at that tim
e, but that in all of the talks about or with Pres[iden]t Cannon that I may have the spirit of the Lord to direct me, and I want to be in perfect union and harmony with the Pres[iden]t of the apostles and all of hy quorum and then I feel that I will be perfectly safe . . . and that there will be no danger of my getting into the dark as there was when we had so much trouble after the death of Pres[iden]t Taylor. John W. Taylor wanted to be directed by the Spirit of the Lord in my talk today or I do not want to talk. Felt that we should find out just what was our duty in reference to the financial affairs of the Church, and then do it. (1)

-- Thursday, May 5, 1898
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Salt Lake City

It is quite pleasant today. I went out to Beck's hot springs and took a bath.

All of the Presidency and Lorenzo Snow, Franklin D. Richards, Brigham Young, Francis M. Lyman, myself, Geo. Teasdale, Heber J. Grant, Matthias F. Cowley, and Abraham O. Woodruff met in Council at Temple.

We talked over the question of admitting people who do drink tea and Coffee to the Temple.... (2)

Footnotes:
1 - Diary Excerpts of Heber J. Grant, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
2 - Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990, http://bit.ly/johnhenrysmith

LDS History Chronology: the Word of Wisdom

Mormon Timeline: the Word of Wisdom
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/