Lorenzo Snow, Nov 23, 1899

-- Nov 23, 1899
Salt Lake Temple 11 A.M. Present: Lorenzo Snow, George Q. Cannon, Joseph F. Smith, Brigham Young [Jr.], John Henry Smith, Heber J. Grant, Anthon H. Lund, Matthias F. Cowley, and Rudger Clawson. Absent: Franklin D. Richards, sick at home; Francis M. Lyman, on a trip south; George Teasdale, attending a funeral; M[arriner]. W[ood]. Merrill, at Logan [Utah]; A[braham]. O[wen]. Woodruff, on his way south; and John W. Taylor, absent by leave, evading arrest for unlawful cohabitation.

The hymn beginning "O My Father", was sung, and prayer was offered by Brother Rudger Clawson; prayer circle being omitted this time, as there were not enough present prepared to clothe.

A letter was read from Attorney Samuel R. Thurman, giving an account of the trial of Elder Jesse W. Crosby Jr., for adultery. Brother Thurman, who was the defendant's attorney, said that he took it upon himself to explain matters, and his explanation, went to show the entire innocence of Brother Crosby in this case.

Brother John Henry Smith moved that Brother Lyman, during his travels south, investigate the Crosby case from a Church standpoint.

President Cannon did not think that this should be done after Brother Crosby had been tried in the civil courts, and he therefore moved that Brother Thurman's letter be accepted as conclusive testimony of Brother Crosby's innocence. The motion was seconded by President Joseph F. Smith and Brother M[atthias]. F. Cowley. It was also shown that Brother Lyman had gone into the case already and had reported his belief in the entire innocence of Brother Crosby.

The motion was then put and carried unanimously. ...

Brother Cowley reported his visit to the Northwestern States Mission, winding up at Butte, Montana, last Sunday. At the conference there twenty-three Elders were present and reported their labors. He was very favorably impressed with the work that is being done in that mission. Some of the towns were very hard places to labor in, and he had advised Brother [Franklin S.] Bramwell, who presides there, to take the elders away from such places.

President Cannon suggested, and it was seconded by several of the brethren and carried, that Brother Bramwell be officially instructed not to have the Elders labor month after month in places among people who manifest no desire whatever to receive the Gospel. The sentiment of the Council was that this instruction should apply to other fields of labor as well.

An informal discussion of the [B. H.] Roberts case, then took place. President Snow expressed his feelings as follows. He hoped that Brother Roberts would have from two to four hours before the house of Representatives, as he believed the Lord would inspire him on that occasion, and that broad-minded people everywhere would be favorably impressed with his presentation of his own case. "After that", said the President, "I don't care what is done, that is, whether he retains his seat or not".

Met in Temple. did not have my clothes so not enough present. we did not dress. Had long talk on "obeying the law." Concluded to let the spirit direct us in counciling brethren what to do. We must not council men to disobey the Law, but separate their families to other states etc. is my feeling. Truly I am a good christian and follow their example in that I always send away one wife before I take an other never having two women at once.

Had a talk with Pres[iden]t. Jos[eph]. F. Smith on private matters. (1)


-- Nov 24, 1899; Friday
Presidents Lorenzo Snow and Joseph F. Smith were at the office, where they received a call from and had a conversation with Judge [George C.] Bartch. The figures showing the number of polygamists, members of the Church, within the confines of the United States, in 1890, when President [Wilford] Woodruff's manifesto was issued, and the decrease since that time, through death, divorce, and removal to other countries, was given to the Judge. (2)

Endnotes:
1 - Journal History; Brigham Young Jr., Diary; Benjamin Cluff Jr., Diary
2 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes

LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow

Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

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Lorenzo Snow, Thursday, Nov 23, 1899

-- Thursday, Nov 23, 1899
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Salt Lake City. Clear and cool. 11 a.m. Meeting of the brethren at the temple. Present: the First Presidency, Apostles J. H. Smith, B. Young, Jr., H. J. Grant, A. H. Lund, M. F. Cowley, R. Clawson, and G. F. Gibbs, clerk. Singing. Prayer by myself. Singing.

A letter from Saml. R. Thurman was read. Said that he was attorney for [Panguitch Stake] Pres. Jesse Crosby in the trial against him for adultery and felt that he was greatly wronged. Gave a synopsis of the trial, which seemed to bear out his statement fully. The report of Attorney Thurman was accepted by unanimous vote as a vindication of Pres. Crosby.

Letter submitted from the presidency of the Utah Stake. They called attention to the condition of the Lake View Ward. It is, they said, narrow and long--about 7 miles long--with a population of 250 souls at each end. The people were going to build a meeting house but could not agree on the location. The presidency of that stake recommended a separation and the organization of two wards. It was moved and carried that the ward be divided.

Apostle Cowley reported his visit to the N. W. States Mission. He said that the mission was in good condition, the pres. of the mission [Franklin S. Bramwell] being a spirited man. One elder reported 17 baptisms in 17 months, and another 20, during his labors. Had an interesting conference in Butte last Sunday.

Pres. G. Q. Cannon moved that the presidents of missions be instructed to withdraw elders from fields where no good results arose from their labors. Carried.

There was some discussion as to the policy of advising the brethren to promise to obey the law when brought before the court for unlawful cohabitation, as that question was being sprung on them. While the brethren were left to give such counsel as the Spirit might suggest, it was decided not to counsel them to say that they would not obey the law. Benediction by Pres. J. F. Smith.

The following is a copy of a letter addressed to S. A. Hunsaker, in answer to one he wrote to me:

Salt Lake City,

Nov. 23rd, 1899

Simeon A. Hunsaker,

Payson, Utah.

Dear Brother:

In answer to your letter of the 1st inst., would say that the reply you received from Pres. Woodruff, as quoted by yourself, would not in any sense justify you in taking another wife. You certainly did wrong in this matter. Why did you not seek counsel from the president of the stake, inasmuch as the answer of Pres. Woodruff was not and could not be considered a definite consent? By taking the course you did, you were certainly exposed to church action for your fellowship. However, that feature of the case is past, but under the circumstances I could not feel justified in giving you a recommend, as requested. If there was nothing else to be said, I could not very well go behind your residence in Canada. It seems to me that you should now apply to the authorities there for one, if you want it.

Your seeking to justify wrong by referring to other cases, about which you may be entirely mistaken, is not done, to my way of thinking, in the spirit of the gospel. If you will reflect upon the situation in a spirit of meekness and humility, you will be constrained to acknowledge that it was entirely wrong to step over the president of your stake and take another wife on the simple statement of President Woodruff "that anyone who wished to take a woman through the temple must have a license or marriage certificate." President Snow, or any of the apostles, would make the same statement today, but that would not authorize the saints to take plural wives.

For you to ask "what have I done to make me unworthy of a recommend" is, I think, easily answered. In conclusion, would say, I think you are wise in keeping out of the way, as our enemies have a strong case against you.

Your brother,

[signed] Rudger Clawson. (1)


-- Nov 23, 1899; Thursday
Salt Lake Temple 11 A.M. Present: Lorenzo Snow, George Q. Cannon, Joseph F. Smith, Brigham Young [Jr.], John Henry Smith, Heber J. Grant, Anthon H. Lund, Matthias F. Cowley, and Rudger Clawson.

Absent: Franklin D. Richards, sick at home; Francis M. Lyman, on a trip south; George Teasdale, attending a funeral; M[arriner]. W[ood]. Merrill, at Logan [Utah]; A[braham]. O[wen]. Woodruff, on his way south; and John W. Taylor, absent by leave, evading arrest for unlawful cohabitation.

The hymn beginning "O My Father", was sung, and prayer was offered by Brother Rudger Clawson; prayer circle being omitted this time, as there were not enough present prepared to clothe.

A letter was read from Attorney Samuel R. Thurman, giving an account of the trial of Elder Jesse W. Crosby Jr., for adultery. Brother Thurman, who was the defendant's attorney, said that he took it upon himself to explain matters, and his explanation, went to show the entire innocence of Brother Crosby in this case.

Brother John Henry Smith moved that Brother Lyman, during his travels south, investigate the Crosby case from a Church standpoint.

President Cannon did not think that this should be done after Brother Crosby had been tried in the civil courts, and he therefore moved that Brother Thurman's letter be accepted as conclusive testimony of Brother Crosby's innocence. The motion was seconded by President Joseph F. Smith and Brother M[atthias]. F. Cowley. It was also shown that Brother Lyman had gone into the case already and had reported his belief in the entire innocence of Brother Crosby.

The motion was then put and carried unanimously. ...

Brother Cowley reported his visit to the Northwestern States Mission, winding up at Butte, Montana, last Sunday. At the conference there twenty-three Elders were present and reported their labors. He was very favorably impressed with the work that is being done in that mission. Some of the towns were very hard places to labor in, and he had advised Brother [Franklin S.] Bramwell, who presides there, to take the elders away from such places.

President Cannon suggested, and it was seconded by several of the brethren and carried, that Brother Bramwell be officially instructed not to have the Elders labor month after month in places among people who manifest no desire whatever to receive the Gospel. The sentiment of the Council was that this instruction should apply to other fields of labor as well.

An informal discussion of the [B. H.] Roberts case, then took place. President Snow expressed his feelings as follows. He hoped that Brother Roberts would have from two to four hours before the house of Representatives, as he believed the Lord would inspire him on that occasion, and that broad-minded people everywhere would be favorably impressed with his presentation of his own case. "After that", said the President, "I don't care what is done, that is, whether he retains his seat or not". (2)

Endnotes:
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 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes

LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow

Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

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Lorenzo Snow, Nov 22, 1899; Wednesday

-- Nov 22, 1899; Wednesday
Presidents Lorenzo Snow, George Q. Cannon and Joseph F. Smith were at the office.

Attorney F[ranklin]. S. Richards called. He had just come

from court, where he had appeared in the case of Elder Joseph E. Taylor, charged with unlawful cohabitation. The defendant had been asked as to his future intentions, that is whether or not he proposed to obey the law. Brother Richards, holding this to be a new phase of the case, had asked that it be not pressed, but the prosecuting attorney had insisted on an answer to the question. The court then informed Brother Richards that he should deal with this class of cases as with all others, and that this question would therefore be asked of the defendants.

Now arose the consideration, what course ought to be taken by the brethren who might be made to answer to this charge. In view of the evident determination of our enemies to work up public opinion against us for the purpose of securing a constitutional amendment forbidding polygamy, it was thought advisable for the brethren who may hereafter be placed in the position of defendants, to promise to obey the law.

Brother H[orace]. G. Whitney met with President Snow, in relation to the employment of an architect for the [Deseret] news building. He was requested to see Mr. Richard Kletting and try to get him to modify his charges.

Brother Whitney also brought to President Snow's attention the matter of an agreement which the latter had made some time ago, to purchase a piece of the Whitney estate property. The President now agreed to pay $1,000 down, and to give five notes, payable in two, four, six, eight, and ten months time, at six per cent interest. (1)


-- Nov 22, 1899
Presidents Lorenzo Snow, George Q. Cannon and Joseph F. Smith were at the office.

Attorney F[ranklin]. S. Richards called. He had just come from court, where he had appeared in the case of Elder Joseph E. Taylor, charged with unlawful cohabitation. The defendant had been asked as to his future intentions, that is whether or not he proposed to obey the law. Brother Richards, holding this to be a new phase of the case, had asked that it be not pressed, but the prosecuting attorney had insisted on an answer to the question. The court then informed Brother Richards that he should deal with this class of cases as with all others, and that this question would therefore be asked of the defendants.

Now arose the consideration, what course ought to be taken by the brethren who might be made to answer to this charge. In view of the evident determination of our enemies to work up public opinion against us for the purpose of securing a constitutional amendment forbidding polygamy, it was thought advisable for the brethren who may hereafter be placed in the position of defendants, to promise to obey the law.

Brother H[orace]. G. Whitney met with President Snow, in relation to the employment of an architect for the [Deseret] news building. He was requested to see Mr. Richard Kletting and try to get him to modify his charges.

Brother Whitney also brought to President Snow's attention the matter of an agreement which the latter had made some time ago, to purchase a piece of the Whitney estate property. The President now agreed to pay $1,000 down, and to give five notes, payable in two, four, six, eight, and ten months time, at six per cent interest.

The devil is mad and is trying to start old conditions. They want our brethren to promise to obey the law in hopes that the brethren will refuse and then they can herald it over the land that the Mormons will not obey the law and nothing would put the people unacquainted with us more against us than this cry. (2)

Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
2 - Journal History; Anthon H. Lund, Letter to Ferdinand F. Hintze

LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow

Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

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Lorenzo Snow, Tuesday, Nov 21, 1899

-- Tuesday, Nov 21, 1899
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Salt Lake City

The members of the Literary and Scientific society voted to dose their business by transfering their property to Lorenzo Snow, Trustee in Trust of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in payment of a debt of about $25,000.00. Prest. G. Q. Cannon presided. (1)


-- Nov 21, 1899; Tuesday
Presidents Lorenzo Snow, George

Q. Cannon and Joseph F. Smith were at the office.

President Smith made a report of his trip to Canada. The contract of the First Presidency with the Alberta irrigation Company is completed, he says, although the canal is not. It was estimated that it would require about $25,000 more to complete the canal.

President Snow expressed the opinion that the reason our people were being pinched in their estimates by the company's engineer, was because he had begun to realize that he had under estimated the cost of the canal, and wanted to make his figures come out as well as he could.

Brother LeGrand Young called and reported that he had made the final payment to the [Joseph] Banigan heirs, which now entitled the Church to receive from them the Church guarantee of one and a half millions for the bonds of the Pioneer Electric Power Company. This transaction was brought about through Senator Frank J. Cannon. The guarantee was still in the possession of the Banigans, but Brother Young felt sure that upon receipt of the payment referred to, it would be delivered through the mails. ...

President W. P. Rigby and Bishop Mathoni Pratt met with the First Presidency. Some time ago they obtained permission to advertise the resources of the Teton country in Idaho. They have prepared a circular, thirty thousand copies of which the Railroad company has published in the shape of a neat folder, and these brethren now wanted to know if it would be all right for them to travel through portions of the southern country for the purpose of presenting the advantages of the Teton region to those whom they might induce to settle there.

President Cannon, being asked to express himself, stated that he had no objection to those brethren advertising the resources of their country, but that he did object to their using an influence among the people that would have a tendency to make them dissatisfied with their present homes.

Bishop [William B.] Preston, who was present, sustained President Cannon's views. He believed that the trend of emigration with our people was from the south into the north, and that they would find their way northward in sufficient numbers, without any special effort being made to induce them to move there.

President Snow took the view that if these brethren could show to our young men who were without homes better opportunities than they now have, there would be no objection on his part to the carrying out of their program; and President Smith was of the same opinion.

Quite a long conversation was had upon the subject, resulting in permission being given to these brethren to advertise the Teton country, but they were asked not to endeavor to make people dissatisfied with their homes, but leave them free to go or remain, as they might themselves elect. (2)

Endnotes:
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 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes

LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow

Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

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Lorenzo Snow, Nov 17, 1899; Friday

-- Nov 17, 1899; Friday
President Lorenzo Snow was at the office. The sum of $320 was appropriated to pay for assessment work on the Church onyx claims for the present year. Since his last report, in which Brothers Joseph A. Silver and Arnold Giaque had subsequently joined, Brother [William] Armstrong had reported that there was one claim, regarded by him as the best of all, owned by one of the Cedarstrom boys. He saw no reason why this claim should not go with the others that were to be patented by the Church, the rest being abandoned. This was the first information received at the President's office that the Cedarstroms owned any claim separate and apart from those in which the Church was interested. (1)


-- Nov 18, 1899; Saturday
President Lorenzo Snow was at the office, where he met with Brother Brigham Young [Jr.] and his son-in-law, Charles Kraft, Brother Heber J. Grant and Bishop John R. Winder, in relation to the business of the Cedar City [Utah] coal mines. The interview resulted in the Church offering to sell its coal lands at Cedar to Brother Young and his proposed company for $150,000, to draw interest at six per cent until paid.

President Uriah T. Jones, of Parowan [Utah] Stake, who was also present at this interview, offered to sell his coal lands to the same parties for $25,000. It now remains for Brother Young and Company to dispose of their bonds and make the purchase; the offer on the part of President Snow for the Church to be regarded in the light of an option.

After Brother Young and Mr. Draft had left the office, Brother Jones offered to sell to the Church his coal lands for $15,000, payment to be made in three installments, the first in six months, the second in twelve months, and the third in eighteen months from the present time. (1)


-- Sunday, Nov 19, 1899
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Brigham City

Prest. Lorenzo Snow, A. H. Lund, Abraham O. Woodruff, Frank Y. Taylor and myself went to Brigham City to attend the Quarterly Conference. President L. Snow shook hands with 1,065 Sunday school children. (2)


-- Monday, Nov 20, 1899
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Brigham City. Clear and cool. 10 a.m. Forenoon session of the 2nd day's quarterly conference of the Box Elder Stake, myself presiding. Present on the stand: Pres. Lorenzo Snow, Apostles J. H. Smith, A. H. Lund, Elder Frank Y. Taylor of Salt Lake, Counselors Chas. Kelly and Wm. L. Watkins, Thos. E. Williams, Young Mens' missionary from Arizona, and others. I called the meeting to order.

The speakers were myself, Coun. Wm. L. Watkins, and A. H. Lund. Topics treated. R. C[lawson]. In view of the reorganization of the stake presidency, I spoke of my labors in the Box Elder Stake and said that the past 12 years had been the happiest period of my life. Referred to the high council, the bishopric of the wards, and stake presidencies as a body of brethren and sisters who were united in all their labors and were, therefore, accomplishing a good work. Said the stake presidency had been united as one man from the first.

W. L. W[atkins]. Bore a strong testimony concerning the work of the Lord.

A. H. L[und]. The perfect law of the Lord. The life of Abraham. Obedience. Spoke in complimentary terms of the beauty and convenience of our tabernacle.

It would be proper here to remark, that before the opening of the morning meeting Apostle J. H. Smith and myself had a talk with Pres. Snow in relation to the reorganization of the stake presidency, and decided on Elder Chas. Kelly for president and Lucius A. Snow and Oleen N. Stohl for counselors, providing they were acceptable to Brother Kelly as counselors (which they were). We also united upon the following brethren for bishops to fill certain vacancies; Michael Schow, Mantua; Thos. Yates, North Ward; Lorenzo Stohl, 3rd Ward, Brigham City; and Brigham Wright to succeed Bp. Jens Hansen, who desired to be released on account of the infirmities of age.

Meeting of the above-named brethren at Pres. Snow's home after the morning session of the conference. Pres. Snow stated the object of the meeting and asked the brethren, each one, if they were willing to accept the appointments. Each expressed his willingness to do so and would endeavor to magnify the same.

Bp. [Abraham] Zundel of Willard, who came in with the brethren, was asked to remain after the others were excused. Pres. Snow explained to Bp. Zundel that it was deemed advisable to make a change in the bishopric of the Willard Ward and felt that it would be for the best good of all concerned—for himself and for the people—if he would resign. He [Lorenzo Snow] said that affairs in Willard were not satisfactory. He did not wish to go into details, unless Bp. Zundel desired it. Had no desire to find fault, but would be content in the statement that he, Bp. Zundel, probably lacked some of those qualifications that were indispensable to a successful bishop.

Bp. Zundel seemed to feel that he was entitled to know the exact cause for asking his resignation. Pres. Snow, thereupon, called upon me to make a statement. I complied by saying that the Willard Ward was not up to the standard of the other wards of the stake; that the tithing was not properly looked after; that, speaking of tithing, the presidency of the stake a year or two ago called Bp. Zundel and counselors together and stated clearly and strongly that the tithing was not properly cared for and demanded stricter attention to this matter, but no improvement had since been made; that the Willard Ward, the largest in the stake, paid less tithing than the Brigham City 4th Ward—a ward of widows and orphans; that Willard was always slack in meeting the apportionments made by the Presidency of the church and the presidency of the stake (which Bp. Zundel now admitted); that aside from the matters herein specified, many complaints concerning the bishop's neglect had come to the

presidency of the stake from the people of the ward; that Bp. Zundel's counselors had threatened to resign because of the unsatisfactory condition of affairs. Brother Chas. Kelly endorsed my statement as being correct.

Bp. Zundel said he was willing to do anything Pres. Snow desired and, if his resignation was wanted, it would be forthcoming, but he was now taken by surprise and, therefore, asked a few days for consideration. Granted.

2 p.m. Continuation of conference. Meeting called to order by myself. Pres. Lorenzo Snow was the speaker of the afternoon. Topics treated. Spoke of the contemplated reorganization of the stake presidency and some of the bishopric[s] and said that it is a difficult matter to find men that are qualified and adapted for the positions to be filled.

The purpose of our coming into the world, he said, was to labor for the salvation of souls. All the inhabitants of the earth are our brethren and sisters, and we should labor in their interests. Spoke of the path to exaltation and glory, which, he said, is made plain to the Latter-day Saints. Referred to the judgments that are being poured out upon the nations of the earth. Said he was not alarmed at these things. Our business is to serve the Lord. All things we are called upon to suffer and pass through are intended for our good. Alluded to the driving of the saints from the States and showed how the saints had been blessed in it by coming to the mountains and building up a great church and a great commonwealth. Spoke of the Manifesto and said the saints were enabled to receive it because of their experience. "Don't worry about the future. Do right today, and we will be sufficient for tomorrow." "Some people are worrying about an amendment to the Constitution. This

should not be. Every persecution, every driving, has only advanced the saints. Do right today; don't worry about tomorrow."

I suppose you are anxious now, he said, to know who shall be president of the stake. Don't worry about it; you shall know in good time. Said the brethren called will be set apart to these positions. How long will they act? Forever, no, perhaps not. It depends on circumstances. They may be called to other positions; they may be released, possibly, for lack of qualification as the future may develop. Spoke of one of the presiding bishops of the church, who was successful in a small way, but when he came to be Presiding Bishop and had to deal with large concerns, he measurably failed. Referred to the case of a leading man in one of the southern stakes, who was called to preside over a stake because of certain qualifications the brethren thought they discovered in him, but after awhile there was trouble. He failed to visit among the people, to get acquainted with them. For this and other reasons he was asked to resign and it was right to do so.

A bishop of a ward should be interested in every man and woman in the ward. Some bishops want to do all the talking. They are not made bishops for that purpose. When he talks, he should be brief and to the point. He is a common judge in Israel. He should feel as great an interest in his ward as in his own family. Amen. (3)

Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
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 - 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

LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow

Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

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Lorenzo Snow, Nov 11, 1899; Saturday

-- Nov 11, 1899; Saturday
President Lorenzo Snow was at the office. The only business done was the appropriation of certain amounts in favor of the Brigham Young Academy, to wit: $600 for the Beaver [Utah] branch of that institution, and $4,750 for the Academy proper, making in all $16,600 for this institution for the current school year. (1)


-- Monday, Nov 13, 1899
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Salt Lake City

My wife Sarah and I attended a reception given to Mrs. J. Ellen Foster of Washington, D.C. at the Residence of J. W. McCune. Lorenzo Snow, Judges Bartch, Miner, and Baskin, Arthur Brown, and many other gentlemen and Ladies were present. (2)


-- Nov 13, 1899; Monday
President Lorenzo Snow was at the office, where he met at 10 A.M. Bishop John R. Winder, Robert S. Campbell and Franklin S. Richards, who came to confer with him in relation to the arid land plains adjacent to the Cedar City [Utah] coal property, which land has been entered by several individuals who promised to deed it to the Church when title was acquired. Nothing was done about the matter, the President taking it under advisement. (1)


-- Nov 16, 1899; Thursday
Presidents Lorenzo Snow and George Q. Cannon were at the office. The latter came accompanied by his son Preston Cannon, who crossed over from Germany to New York, in order to undergo a surgical operation.

Salt Lake Temple 11 A.M. Present: Lorenzo Snow, George Q. Cannon, Brigham Young [Jr.], Francis M. Lyman, John Henry Smith, Heber J. Grant, John W. Taylor, Marriner W[ood]. Merrill, and Anthon H. Lund.

Absent: Joseph F. Smith and Rudger Clawson, in Canada; Franklin B. Richards, sick at home in Ogden [Utah]; George Teasdale, attending the funeral, in Manti [Utah], of Elder Alder, who died while on a mission to Germany. Also Matthias F. Cowley and Abraham O[wen]. Woodruff.

President Snow explained to President Cannon the mind of the Council in relation to resuming the prayer circle, and President Cannon replied that he was very glad to learn of it.

The order of procedure, as to the prayer circle and the business of the Council, was next considered, and a decision reached that it would be better to have the prayer circle first.

President Snow now withdrew for the purpose of getting his Temple clothes, and in his absence a letter was read from President Joseph F. Smith, which letter President Snow had already heard. It was dated at Cardston, Canada, on the 8th inst., and it set forth that the people working on the Alberta canal were feeling well and were determined to complete the work according to contract. A later communication was promised, which would give the difference, if any, in the measurements, etc., made by Brother J. Fewson Smith (who accompanied President Smith) and those made by the engineer of the canal company.

The brethren present now clothed and assembled for prayer using the room of the Apostles, where they have always met to do the business of the Council, in lieu of the First Presidency's room, where the prayer circle was formerly held, but which is not now in readiness.

The hymn "Lord, we come before thee now", was sung; Elder Brigham Young offered the opening prayer, and Elder John W. Taylor was mouth in the circle. After the members of the Council had disrobed, and resumed their ordinary attire, the following business was transacted. ...

President Snow invited President Cannon to make a report of his visit to the East, and the latter then gave the following account. He was taken sick on his way to New York, and upon his arrival there had to be put to bed. The Doctor who sounded his chest said that he did not know that he had ever sounded a man of his age who had such good lungs, but that was all the worse for a man with pneumonia. He suffered no pain, but was in a kind of stupor. On the day of his change for the better he received word

from his family that they had been fasting and praying for him, and that they felt he would recover. The doctors pronounced it double pneumonia, and credited his recovery greatly to the fact that he had never used stimulants, as this enabled his system to respond to the medicines given. His condition was such that he could not attend to business, and he therefore thought it better not to remain. A Mr. Gibbs, of the New York Life Insurance Company, came and offered him the use of his new residence, with servants and every accommodation and convenience. He was also the recipient of kind offers from the national Park Bank people, and the Union Pacific Railroad directors, the latter sending him home in a private car, with cook and food, all complimentary. President Cannon stated that he did not have a moment's despondency, and did not feel at any time but that he would recover. He bore testimony to the Council that he had been healed by the power of God.

Brother Grant now brought to the consideration of the Council the constant efforts that were being made by the Gentiles of Salt Lake City, to draw business southward, and especially down Main Street. The idea had occurred to him that instead of a Deseret news building on the Council House corner, that a Z.C.M.I. retail store erected there would be the means of anchoring trade up on our side of the town. He believed that enough money could be realized from the sale of that corner to put up a News building on ground already owned by the Church. He had learned that the Hooper block, a fine well-built five-story structure, now used for offices, on 1st South street, east of the Deseret National Bank, could be bought for $60,000, and he believed that $65,000 could be realized for the Council House corner alone. This would save the Church the expense of erecting a building. The Hooper block would make a fine home for the News, and there would be offices in it to rent besides.

Brother John Henry Smith favored the suggestion made by Brother Grant. Business was fast going south, and he had felt for some time that if Z.C.M.I. maintained its business hold, it would have to move south. He had mentioned this to the directors on a previous occasion, but they had voted against it.

President Snow remarked that it was a question, even if a new retail building were erected for Z.C.M.I., whether it would be sufficient to keep our people from going further south to trade with the Gentiles. It was no doubt an important matter that Brother Grant had mentioned, and should receive consideration.

Brother Grant here added that he had been on the board of directors of Z.C.M.I. for many years, and the complaint had often been made that our people received better treatment and get goods cheaper elsewhere. This complaint had been heard by the board more than once and reported on to the contrary. It was found that the cheaper goods spoken of were inferior in quality to those sold at the same price by Z.C.M.I.

Brother Lyman and Brother Lund both favored the suggestion of Brother Grant, that is, unless Z.C.M.I. moved further south, which the directors did not want to do.

President Snow suggested that the matter be submitted to the

Z.C.M.I. Board of Directors, at its meeting today, and he said that if the directors favored it he would sustain them in it. ... (1)

Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
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: Lorenzo Snow

Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

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Lorenzo Snow, Thursday, Nov 9, 1899

-- Thursday, Nov 9, 1899
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Salt Lake City

Lorenzo Snow, Brigham Young, Francis M. Lyman, Myself, George Teasdale, Heber J. Grant, Anthon H. Lund, Mattbias F. Cowley and Abraham O. Woodruff met in Council at the Apostles room in Temple. I reported my doings in Summit Stake. Brigham reported on his coking effort. Abraham O. Woodruff was appointed to look after colonization matters.

The work of Brigham Young in the East and what the Church would do was taken up at 3 p.m. but nothing was done.

My brother Charles W. Smith is employed as night watchman by the Groesbeck Co.

I paid $12.10 for clothes for my brother Charles today. (1)


-- Nov 9, 1899; Thursday
President Lorenzo Snow was at the office. Today the old cobblestone wall in front of the Office and the Lion House was taken down to make way for an iron fence.

Salt Lake Temple, 11 A.M. Present: Lorenzo Snow, Brigham Young [Jr.], Francis M. Lyman, John Henry Smith, George Teasdale, Anthon H. Lund, Matthias F. Cowley, and Rudger Clawson. ...

Two fine specimens of pears were shown by Brother Woodruff, to whom they had been sent by Brother George F. Wilson, of Mesa, Arizona. They were raised in that country, where it has been thought pears could not grow, on account of the heat. They were the largest pears ever seen in this city by the brethren present. Brother Wilson's success in raising them is due to the fact that he shaded the fruit on the south side from the heat of the sun.

Brother Woodruff thought that something should be done to induce the people to stop moving away from Mesa, and that a movement ought to be started to have people go there and settle.

Brother Lyman spoke in a similar strain concerning the Blue Valley country.

President Snow remarked that this question had been talked about before in the Council, and that he and others were thoroughly satisfied that one of the brethren should be called to give the matter of colonizing our people his best thought and attention. Some one had suggested that Brother Woodruff might do this, and the speaker thought so too.

The President's nomination was seconded both by Brother John

Henry Smith and Brother Heber J. Grant, and it became the sense of the meeting. ...

Brother Grant suggested a reconsideration of the dividing lines between the new stakes growing out of Salt Lake Stake, and he was informed that the matter was still in the hands of the committee. ...

At 3 P.M. President Snow met with Brother Brigham Young, his son B[righam]. S. Young, and his son-in-law Charles Kraft; John Henry Smith, Heber J. Grant, Anthon H. Lund and Bishop [William B.] Preston being also present. Brother Young proposed to lease the Church coal mines at Cedar [Utah] for $6,000 a year, but President Snow did not favor the proposition, for the reason that Brother Young could not guarantee the payment of the lease. This interview resulted in the understanding that Brother Young was left perfectly free to go ahead and get money wherever he could, to develop his coke enterprise, with a view to selling bonds of the company. ... (2)

Endnotes:
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 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes

LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow

Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

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Lorenzo Snow, Nov 3, 1899; Friday

-- Nov 3, 1899; Friday
President Lorenzo Snow was at the office, where he met a Mr. Smith, a correspondent of the Cincinnati Times, who was introduced by Brother C[harles]. W. Penrose. Mr. Smith is here for the purpose of writing up what is called the [B. H.] Roberts case, and the chief point he desired to interview President Snow upon, was the attitude of the Church towards Roberts. President Snow told the gentleman that the Church had nothing whatever to do with the election of Roberts; and he also told him that the Church had ceased to solemnize plural marriages, that none had been performed by the Church, or with its sanction, since he became its President, and would not be. (1)


-- Nov 7, 1899; Tuesday
President Lorenzo Snow was at the office, where he and Bishop William B. Preston considered the advisability of purchasing for the Church the President's Office from the Brigham Young Trust Company, to which the property belongs. It was thought by them that it would only be a question of time when the Church would buy the Lion House as well, and utilize the building for the Bishop's Office. It is the intention, when the Deseret News gets in to its new building, to take down

the old News buildings and the old Tithing House. (1)


-- Nov 8, 1899; Wednesday
President Lorenzo Snow was at the office. Brother Jesse Knight called, he having been asked to do so. It was decided some time ago that the Church should give up the land near the coal and iron mines at Cedar City [Utah], and not continue to make payments thereon. After this conclusion had been reached it was learned that Brother Knight was interesting himself in those mines, and it was thought that he might be willing to take the land secured by the Church and pay what had been advanced upon it. To learn Brother Knight's mind upon this point was the purpose in requesting him to make his present visit. He was not favorable to the proposition.

Brother William Armstrong called. He with Brother Silver and Brother Giaque had been to Pelican Point and examined the onyx claims there. It was his judgment that no more money should be expended upon the property, unless for the purpose of getting it patented, and he recommended that only two or three of the claims be patented. The Utah Onyx Company was working a claim in that region and had expended a good deal of money. Brother Armstrong's idea was to watch the results of their experiment. If they succeeded the Church might develop its patented claims, and if they failed it could let the enterprise alone. If the Church could now get the money for the claims which it had put into them, he advised that it sell. Brother Armstrong had not expressed his views to Brother Silver and Brother Giaque, expecting that they would make their own report. (1)

Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes

LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow

Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

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Lorenzo Snow, Nov 2, 1899; Thursday

-- Nov 2, 1899; Thursday
President Lorenzo Snow was at the office, and proceeded thence to the Temple, to meet with the Apostles in regular council.

Salt Lake Temple, 11 A.M. Present: Lorenzo Snow, Francis M. Lyman, John Henry Smith, George Teasdale, Heber J. Grant, Anthon H. Lund, and Abraham O[wen]. Woodruff.

Absent: George Q. Cannon, Joseph F. Smith, Brigham Young [Jr.], John W. Taylor, Marriner W[ood]. Merrill, Matthias F. Cowley, and Rudger Clawson. ...

President Snow inquired why prayer circles had ceased with the Council. No reason was assigned for their discontinuance, except that it had become inconvenient for President [Wilford] Woodruff to clothe, and the custom had gradually been laid aside. President Snow thought that the Council should resume its prayer

circle, and it was the feeling of all present that this should be done. ...

It was now decided to resume the Council prayer circle on the first Thursday in December.

Brother John Henry Smith remarked that a man named Samuelson had approached him, saying that he had given some thought to the subject of the Godhead. It was represented in one place, in the Prophet Joseph [Smith]'s lecture on the subject, that the Father is a personage of spirit, and in another place that he has a body of flesh and bones, also the Son. The speaker thought it would be a good thing for young theological students if there could be a reconciliation of these two statements.

President Snow believed that the best thing to do with such matters was to let them alone. He thought it proper to make necessary explanations when it was wise to do so, but there were some things that could not be reconciled to man's present finite understanding. The President then referred to the subject of the Holy Ghost and invited the brethren who had definite ideas regarding it to express themselves. In confirming members of the Church, it was customary to say to them "Receive Ye the Holy Ghost". And yet we are told that the Holy Ghost rested upon Jesus in the form of a dove. Speaking of his own experience when confirmed, President Snow said that he felt a burning sensation running from his head to his feet, and he now asked the brethren if they thought that was a personage of spirit that was resting upon him.

Brother Lyman answered, "No, that it was the power and spirit of the Holy Ghost," and Brother Lund added that when a person received the Holy Ghost, it was its power that he received, even the spirit of light and truth.

Brother Grant changed the subject by saying that he could never wind up the affairs of the Utah Loan & Trust Company until it was decided whether the Church was willing to lose some $15,000 or take stock in the proposed new company. President Snow remarked that he felt like losing the $15,000.

Brother John Henry Smith offered prayer, and the Council adjourned.

A committee of the Brigham Young Academy, consisting of Elders Edward Partridge and Reed Smoot, of the Utah Stake Presidency, Bishop Thomas R. Cutler, of Lehi [Utah], and Brother Benjamin Cluff Jr., President of the Academy, made a statement to President Snow as to what that Institution is doing in all its departments, resulting in a showing that $9,823 was needed to run the Academy to the end of the present school year, and this amount they asked to have appropriated. The matter was taken under consideration.

A Brother Cedarstrom and Brother William Armstrong, son of the late Francis Armstrong, called by appointment on business connected with certain onyx claims in which the late President Woodruff and his counselors had become interested. The question had arisen in President Snow's mind as to whether he would advance any more money on these claims, and this was the business to be

considered. The following named brethren were present by invitation of President Snow to help consider the matter: Bishop William B. Preston, Anthon H. Lund, Abraham O[wen]. Woodruff, Franklin S. Richards, and LeGrand Young. It having been ascertained that about $4,000 had been advanced in order to secure these claims, the suggestion was made that the best of them be patented, and President Snow felt inclined to do this. It was now learned there was a marble claim in the same region, and that Brother Cedarstrom had been advised by the late Brother Armstrong to let the marble claim go in with the onyx claims, on the same conditions. This, Brother Cedarstrom said, he was willing to do. The talk resulted in a determination by the President to send some practical man to examine all these properties, Brother William Armstrong to accompany him, and the two to report whether or not, in their opinion, they were worth patenting. (1)


-- Nov 2, 1899
President Lorenzo Snow was at the office, and proceeded thence to the Temple, to meet with the Apostles in regular council.

Salt Lake Temple, 11 A.M. Present: Lorenzo Snow, Francis M. Lyman, John Henry Smith, George Teasdale, Heber J. Grant, Anthon H. Lund, and Abraham O[wen]. Woodruff.

Absent: George Q. Cannon, Joseph F. Smith, Brigham Young [Jr.], John W. Taylor, Marriner W[ood]. Merrill, Matthias F. Cowley, and Rudger Clawson. ...

President Snow inquired why prayer circles had ceased with the Council. No reason was assigned for their discontinuance, except that it had become inconvenient for President [Wilford] Woodruff to clothe, and the custom had gradually been laid aside. President Snow thought that the Council should resume its prayer circle, and it was the feeling of all present that this should be done. ...

It was now decided to resume the Council prayer circle on the first Thursday in December.

Brother John Henry Smith remarked that a man named Samuelson had approached him, saying that he had given some thought to the subject of the Godhead. It was represented in one place, in the Prophet Joseph [Smith]'s lecture on the subject, that the Father is a personage of spirit, and in another place that he has a body of flesh and bones, also the Son. The speaker thought it would be a good thing for young theological students if there could be a reconciliation of these two statements.

President Snow believed that the best thing to do with such matters was to let them alone. He thought it proper to make necessary explanations when it was wise to do so, but there were some things that could not be reconciled to man's present finite understanding. The President then referred to the subject of the Holy Ghost and invited the brethren who had definite ideas regarding it to express themselves. In confirming members of the Church, it was customary to say to them "Receive Ye the Holy Ghost". And yet we are told that the Holy Ghost rested upon Jesus in the form of a dove. Speaking of his own experience when confirmed, President Snow said that he felt a burning sensation running from his head to his feet, and he now asked the brethren if they thought that was a personage of spirit that was resting upon him.

Brother Lyman answered, "No, that it was the power and spirit of the Holy Ghost," and Brother Lund added that when a person received the Holy Ghost, it was its power that he received, even the spirit of light and truth.

Brother Grant changed the subject by saying that he could never wind up the affairs of the Utah Loan & Trust Company until it was decided whether the Church was willing to lose some $15,000 or take stock in the proposed new company. President Snow remarked that he felt like losing the $15,000.

Brother John Henry Smith offered prayer, and the Council adjourned.

A committee of the Brigham Young Academy, consisting of Elders Edward Partridge and Reed Smoot, of the Utah Stake Presidency, Bishop Thomas R. Cutler, of Lehi [Utah], and Brother Benjamin Cluff Jr., President of the Academy, made a statement to President Snow as to what that Institution is doing in all its departments, resulting in a showing that $9,823 was needed to run the Academy to the end of the present school year, and this amount they asked to have appropriated. The matter was taken under consideration.

A Brother Cedarstrom and Brother William Armstrong, son of the late Francis Armstrong, called by appointment on business connected with certain onyx claims in which the late President Woodruff and his counselors had become interested. The question had arisen in President Snow's mind as to whether he would advance any more money on these claims, and this was the business to be considered. The following named brethren were present by invitation of President Snow to help consider the matter: Bishop William B. Preston, Anthon H. Lund, Abraham O[wen]. Woodruff, Franklin S. Richards, and LeGrand Young. It having been ascertained that about $4,000 had been advanced in order to secure these claims, the suggestion was made that the best of them be patented, and President Snow felt inclined to do this. It was now learned there was a marble claim in the same region, and that Brother Cedarstrom had been advised by the late Brother Armstrong to let the marble claim go in with the onyx claims, on the same conditions. This, Brother Cedarstrom said, he was willing to do. The talk resulted in a determination by the President to send some practical man to examine all these properties, Brother William Armstrong to accompany him, and the two to report whether or not, in their opinion, they were worth patenting. We had a very interesting meeting. Had lunch with Apostle Geo[rge]. Teasdale. (2)

Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
2 - Journal History; Abraham Owen Woodruff, Diary

LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow

Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

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Lorenzo Snow, Oct 29, 1899

-- Oct 29, 1899
[Marriner Wood Merrill] I attended Quarterly [Stake] Conference in Logan [Utah] to day. Pres[iden]t. Lorenzo Snow F[rancis] M Lyman & John Henry Smith were in attendance Pres[iden]t. Orson Smith arrived Home from the Clondyke [Klondike] Country where He went last May without the consent of the Presidency. Apostles Lyman & Smith were the speakers this fornoon. Councilor Isaac Smith Orson Smith Pres[iden]t Snow Councelor Kelley from Box Elder [Utah] Stake & B[isho]p Preston were the Speakers this afternoon. Pres[iden]t Orson Smith Tendered His resignation as President of Cach[e] Stake. Pres[iden]t Snow and the Congregation accepted it. Conference adj[ourned] until tomorrow at 10 am; I attended a private Meeting with Pres[iden]t Snow Lyman & Smith this evening to decide who My Councellors were to be as the Presidency & Twelve in their Meeting in Salt Lake Temple Last Thursday Oct[ober]. 26th decided that I should Preside Over the Cache Stake of Zion. I choose Joseph Morrell as first & Isaac Smith as Second Councellor to myself M[arriner]. W[ood]. Merrill. (1)


-- Monday, Oct 30, 1899
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Logan

Conference at 10 a.m.

President Lorenzo Snow presented Marriner W. Merrill to preside over the Cache Stake. He was unanimously sustained. He chose Joseph Morrell and Isaac Smith as councillors. All spoke a short time and said they would do their best. Bro. Merrill related a dream he had had about Satan.

Our party returned to the City. My wife Sarah is 50 years old today. About 25 of our kindred came in and spent the evening with us. (2)


-- Oct 30, 1899
[Apostle Marriner W. Merrill Diary] Logan. I attended Conference again today. President Snow talked awhile and then presented my name to the Conference to be the President of Cache Stake of Zion, and I was unanimously sustained. Then Joseph Morrell's and Isaac Smith's names were presented and sustained by the people. President Snow set myself apart, Apostle Lyman, Brother Morrell, and John Henry Smith, Isaac Smith. I went to Isaac Smith's for lunch and attended the meeting at 1 p. m. Conference adjourned at 2:30 p. m. (3)

Endnotes:
1 - Marriner Wood Merrill, Diary
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 - Notes from the Miscellaneous Record Book, 1886-1906: Selected diary notes from the journal books of Marriner Wood Merrill, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies

LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow

Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

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Lorenzo Snow, Sunday, Oct 29, 1899

-- Sunday, Oct 29, 1899
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Logan

In company with President Lorenzo Snow, Arthur Winter, and LeRoy Snow, I went to Logan to attend the conference.

The morning meeting was addressed by Francis M. Lyman and myself.

At 2 p.m. conference convened.

President Orson Smith resigned as President of the stake. President Lorenzo Snow accepted it and spoke kindly of his labors. Charles Kelley and Bp. Wm. B. Preston spoke. (1)


-- Oct 29, 1899
[Apostle Marriner W. Merrill Diary] Sunday. Logan. I attended Quarterly Conference in Logan today. President Orson Smith arrived home from the Klondike country, where he went last May without the consent of the Presidency. He was one of the speakers at the afternoon meeting and tendered his resignation as President of Cache Stake. President Snow and the congregation accepted it. I attended private meeting with President Snow and Apostles Lyman and John Henry Smith this evening to decide who my Counselors were to be, as the Presidency and Twelve in their meeting in Salt Lake Temple last Thursday, October 26th, decided that I should preside over the Cache Stake of Zion. I chose Joseph Morrell as First, and Isaac Smith as Second, Counselor to myself, M. W. Merrill. (2)


-- Oct 29, 1899; Sunday
I attended Quarterly [Stake] Conference in Logan [Utah] to day. Pres[iden]t. Lorenzo Snow F[rancis] M Lyman & John Henry Smith were in attendance Pres[iden]t. Orson Smith arrived Home from the Clondyke [Klondike] Country where He went last May without the consent of the Presidency. Apostles Lyman & Smith were the speakers this fornoon. Councilor Isaac Smith Orson Smith Pres[iden]t Snow Councelor Kelley from Box Elder [Utah] Stake & B[isho]p Preston were the Speakers this afternoon. Pres[iden]t Orson Smith Tendered His resignation as President of Cach[e] Stake. Pres[iden]t Snow and the Congregation accepted it. Conference adj[ourned] until tomorrow at 10 am; I attended a private Meeting with Pres[iden]t Snow Lyman & Smith this evening to decide who My Councellors were to be as the Presidency & Twelve in their Meeting in Salt Lake Temple Last Thursday Oct[ober]. 26th decided that I should Preside Over the Cache Stake of Zion. I choose Joseph Morrell as first & Isaac Smith as Second Councellor to myself M[arriner]. W[ood]. Merrill. (3)

Endnotes:
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 - Notes from the Miscellaneous Record Book, 1886-1906: Selected diary notes from the journal books of Marriner Wood Merrill, http://amzn.to/newmormonstudies
3 - Marriner Wood Merrill, Diary

LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow

Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

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Lorenzo Snow, Oct 26, 1899; Thursday

-- Oct 26, 1899; Thursday
Presidents Lorenzo Snow and Joseph F. Smith were at the office, and proceeded thence to the Temple to meet with the Apostles in regular council.

Salt Lake Temple, 11 A.M. Present: Lorenzo Snow, Joseph F. Smith, Francis M. Lyman, John Henry Smith, Heber J. Grant, George Teasdale, Anthon H. Lund, Matthias F. Cowley, Abraham O[wen]. Woodruff and Rudger Clawson.

Brother John Henry Smith informed the Council that he was in Ogden [Utah] yesterday, and called upon President Franklin D. Richards, who is home from California. He found him under the influence of opiates, administered by his physician, and he could not be aroused. In the evening Brother Smith called again, and found the patient conscious but very nervous, his limbs fairly twitching and jerking. It was a case of absolute collapse, mentally and physically.

Brother Woodruff said that he called upon President Richards Sunday night. The latter was in bed, and did not recognize his visitor at first, but when he did recognize him, he gripped his hand and held it tight. Brother Woodruff and Brother Samuel W.

Richards administered to him, the latter anointing him with oil. President Richards kept hold of Brother Woodruff's hand in such a way that he could not lay hands upon his head; he did not seem to know enough to let go of the hand, and Brother Woodruff had to separate himself from him in order to perform the ordinance.

The following report, collated through correspondence with the various Stake Presidents, and including all the Stakes excepting Wayne [Utah], was read by the secretary: "In 1890, at the time of President [Wilford] Woodruff's manifesto, there were 2,451 polygamous families within the confines of the United States. Since then this number had been reduced 750 by death, and 63 by removals into Mexico and Canada, and 95, by divorce; leaving 1,543 polygamous families yet remaining. In other words, thirty-seven per cent of these families had ceased to exist as polygamous families since President Woodruff's manifesto.["] ...

Brother Grant informed the Council that in a conversation with A[lfred]. W. McCune, about two years ago, the latter had acknowledged that the [Salt Lake] Herald people made a mistake in "kicking" him (Brother Grant) out of the Herald Company, forty-nine one-hundredths of the stock in that paper then being owned by Heber J. Grant & Co[mpany]. This acknowledgment was forced from those people in consequence of a falling off of patronage. Mr. McCune had invited Brother Grant to become associated again with the Herald, to take charge of it, and name its manager. The speaker went on to say that when he conducted the paper it exercised an influence for good towards the Church; but in view of the present state of affairs it was a question with him whether it would be wise for him to again take hold of it. It was now running behind at the rate of $2,000 a month, and he had reason to believe that McCune would renew his invitation if he thought it would be accepted. Brother Grant merely mentioned the matter for consideration. No one present had anything to say upon the subject.

When the order of conference appointments was reached, President Snow remarked that he expected to go to Logan, and he asked if any of the brethren had a clear view as to who should be made President of that Stake, to succeed Elder Orson Smith. If so, he would be glad to have an expression of it.

Brother Lyman, arising, said that he had already expressed himself to President Snow on this subject, and he would now repeat that after looking over the situation he could find no other man as well qualified for the place as Brother Charles W. Nibley. He was a man of faith and integrity, a good theologian, and a successful business man. He was also a successful polygamist, and had two sons in the mission field.

Brother John Henry Smith could also heartily sustain Brother Nibley, if chosen, but it occurred to him that if Brother Orson Smith, who was no doubt at home by this time, could satisfy his creditors, the problem might work out itself without any change.

Brother Grant stated that while he could sustain Brother Nibley as President of Cache [Utah] Stake, and believed to be true all that Brother Lyman had said of him, still he had never been

impressed that he was spiritually minded enough to be a Stake President. The speaker regarded Brother Nibley as the brightest man in Cache County, but his interests were outside that County, and the appointment would entail a personal sacrifice on his part. Brother Grant did not think that Orson Smith could now retain the confidence of the people.

Brother Lund was not acquainted with Brother Nibley, but the problem presented itself to him in this way. There was a large faction in Cache Valley that were followers of Moses Thatcher, and the speaker thought that if someone could be found who had influence with that side, and was still a man of integrity, he would be able, more than anybody else, to break down the Thatcher influence.

Brother Teasdale had no views to express, and Brother Woodruff said he could support Brother Nibley. He had also heard Brother Joseph Morrell spoke of very highly, and believed him to be a good man.

Brother Clawson was not intimately acquainted with the brethren of Cache Stake. He believed Brother Nibley would make a good President, also Brother Morrell, but he was ready to sustain any man that President Snow might name.

Brother Grant now arose and said that as between Brother Nibley and Brother Morrell, he believed the latter was the better man for the place.

President Smith felt that Brother Nibley was in every way qualified, excepting perhaps his physical condition, but his health was improving. He had not thought of Orson Smith coming back again. He had always believed in Brother Smith's integrity. His return might have the effect of pacifying his creditors, and it might be the proper thing to retain him, if it could be done consistently, and perhaps give him other counselors. It did not strike the speaker that Brother Morrell was a man equal to the requirements of the position of President of Cache Stake. If there was nothing more crooked in the record of Orson Smith, than that he had made a break in order to meet his debts, he could still sustain him in his position, if the spirit of the Lord approved. Or if it were thought wise for Brother Nibley, who was a near friend of the speaker?s in every way, to preside over that Stake, he could heartily sustain him especially if his bodily strength would permit. Brother Nibley would be his next choice after Brother Smith.

Brother Grant here remarked that perhaps it would lengthen Brother Nibley's life to make him President of the Stake, as it would take his mind off so much other business.

President Snow then said: "You have all spoken and given your views. Your feelings do not fully accord. Cache is a large and important Stake, and it would be well to choose a man that the people are acquainted with and in whom they have confidence, both as to his faithfulness and his ability to preside over them. If a man could be selected who combines these qualifications, and especially if he be head and shoulders above every body else

named, he would be the right man for the place". The President then said that he could mention a man whom the people would be perfectly satisfied with, and would have reason to be satisfied, but in selecting him they would have to go a little out of the ordinary course. That man was M[arriner]. W[ood]. Merrill.

Whereupon President Smith said quickly "I believe, President Snow, that you have struck the right man, and I would nominate him but for his Apostleship".

Brother John Henry Smith: "I move that we adopt the selection of the President".

Everybody present seconded the motion, and it was carried unanimously, all feeling that Brother Merrill was the right man in the right place.

Brother Grant now asked if there was any word for him relative to his taking hold of the Herald. President Snow intimated that he had no word to give. Brother Clawson moved that Brother Grant be authorized to look into the matter further, and the action, seconded by Brother Woodruff, was carried. ...

Presidents Lorenzo Snow and Joseph F. Smith were at the office; President [George Q.] Cannon, their associate, still absent and sick in New York City.

The case entitled Levoy Campbell versus Silas S. Smith, appealed to the First Presidency from the High Council of San Luis [Colorado/New Mexico] Stake, and referred to a committee consisting of Francis M. Lyman, John Henry Smith, Anthon H. Lund and Abraham O[wen]. Woodruff, now came before the Presidency for final action. The committee had found that the case had been decided unanimously by the Bishop's court as well as the High Council, and they saw no reason why the decision should in any way be changed. The Presidency approved these findings.

Brothers Rulon S. Wells and Joseph W. McMurrin, of the late presidency of the European Mission, waited upon President Snow in regard to their individual accounts at the Liverpool [England] office, as to whether or not they should be balanced. The President asked them to submit their accounts in detail, which they promised to do after first writing for them to be sent from Liverpool. These brethren also spoke to President Snow regarding the case of Jacob R. Hunter, of Granger [Utah] Ward, who had transgressed with a married woman while on his mission to England; her husband being hopelessly insane, and not a member of the Church, while she herself was a member. Hunter had since married the woman and they were now living in Granger. The Bishop of that Ward wished to know what should be done in the case. It was decided by President Snow that the Bishop should be written to and requested to call upon him the next time he comes to the city. (1)


-- Oct 28, 1899; Saturday
Presidents Lorenzo Snow and Joseph F. Smith were at the office.

In answer to a telegram sent today to Brother F[ranklin]. S. Richards, at Ogden [Utah], asking how his father was, a reply came to the effect that Dr. Joseph S. Richards, who was then in

attendance upon the patient, would call and report his condition to President Snow, while on his way home in the evening. The President reported that the Doctor had called on him last night and informed him that Brother Richards was in a comatose state and could not be aroused to consciousness. He did not look for his recovery. In fact, the Doctor said that if he should get over his present sickness, it was not probable he would ever be himself again; meaning that his mind would be weak, and his recovery would therefore be an affliction to him.

Word came from President [George Q.] Cannon this morning that he would be able to sit up today, though the damp weather was against him. He grows stronger every hour, and the doctors say that he will be able to move in a few days.

President Smith leaves tonight for Alberta, Canada, accompanied by Rudger Clawson and J. Fewson Smith. The object of Brother Clawson's going is to audit the accounts for Brother [Milton D.] Hammond. The services of Brother J. Fewson Smith have been secured instead of those of Joseph A. West, engineer. (1)

Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes

LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow

Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

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Lorenzo Snow, Oct 25, 1899; Wednesday

-- Oct 25, 1899; Wednesday
President Lorenzo Snow was at the office; President [Joseph F.] Smith still absent.

It was learned this morning that President [George Q.] Cannon, whose sickness in New York has previously been mentioned, passed a good night; the doctors agree that he is much improved, and for the first time they speak with absolute encouragement.

Bishop John R. Winder, with Brothers F[ranklin]. S. Richards and R[obert]. S. Campbell, met with Presidents Snow and Smith (the latter having returned since morning) on business connected with a tract of arid land, comprising twelve thousand acres, secured by the late California Railroad Company. Abra[ha]m H. Cannon and Robert Lund were the ones who took up these lands, on which some payments had been made by them, and the question was now, Should the Church continue the payments? After due consideration on motion of Bishop Winder it became the sense of those present that the Church make no more payments, but that it leave other parties free to do so if they wished, that is, to perfect the titles and own the land themselves. (1)


-- Thursday, Oct 26, 1899
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Salt Lake City

Prest. Geo. Q. Cannon is still very sick. President Lorenzo Snow, Joseph F. Smith, Francis M. Lyman, Myself, Geo. Teasdale, Heber J. Grant, Anthon H. Lund, Matthias F. Cowley, Abraham O. Woodruff, and Rudger Clawson met in council and had prayers. It was decided to make M. W. Merrill President of Cache Stake.

The Directors of Heber J. Grant & Co. met today. We voted to cut down our stock one half. (2)


[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Salt Lake City. Clear and cool. 11 a.m. Meeting of the brethren at the temple. Present: Presidents Lorenzo Snow and Jos. F. Smith, and Apostles F. M. Lyman, J. H. Smith, Geo. Teasdale, H. J. Grant, A. H. Lund, M. F. Cowley, A. O. Woodruff, R. Clawson, and G. F. Gibbs, clerk.

Apostle J. H. Smith reported that he had been to Ogden to visit Pres. F. D. Richards and said that he was very seriously ill, being afflicted with nervous prostration. His mind also, he said, seemed to be failing. Apostle A. O. Woodruff made a similar report.

The clerk read a report showing the status of polygamy in Utah, as follows, to wit:

The number of polygamists in 1890—

2450

[2451]

The number of deaths since then—

750

The number removed from the U.S.

63

The number divorced

95

908

Leaving a balance of

1542

[1543]

37%—died, left, or divorced.

Apostle H. J. Grant said that he thought he could get managing control of the Salt Lake Herald, if it were thought advisable. As it is now, the paper is run on anti-Mormon principles, but might be used to favor the church. I moved that Apostle Grant be authorized to do what he could in the matter of securing control. Carried by unanimous vote.

A letter from Apostle B. Young, Jr., Chicago, was read. It was in relation to the matter of introducing coke from some of our church lands, into the Chicago market. Hadn't as yet succeeded, but hope to soon.

The question of a presidency for the Cache Stake was introduced by Pres. Snow, and he asked the brethren how they felt about it. Apostle Lyman suggested the name of Chas. W. Nibley. The brethren who followed, namely, Apostles J. H. Smith, H. J. Grant, M. F. Cowley, and Pres. J. F. Smith, all spoke highly of Elder Nibley. Apostle A. H. Lund was in favor of a man who would have some influence with the Moses Thatcher faction. He did not think C. W. Nibley would be altogether the most suitable, he being a Republican in politics. Pres. Snow proposed the name of Apostle M. W. Merrill. Seconded and carried by unanimous vote.

Apostle F. M. Lyman made an appeal for aid in behalf of Elder Nephi Pratt, who, he said, is in destitute circumstances, and Pres. Jos. F. Smith, in behalf of Elder Jno. T. Caine, suggesting that the latter be appointed stake tithing clerk of the Cache Stake, to succeed the present clerk, who purposes to resign. Action on these two cases was deferred for the present. Prayer by President Lorenzo Snow. (3)

Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
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 - 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

LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow

Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

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Lorenzo Snow, Oct 24, 1899; Tuesday

-- Oct 24, 1899; Tuesday
President Lorenzo Snow was at the Office; President [Joseph F.] Smith absent for the day.

A telegram was received this morning from New York, and signed by Frank J. Cannon, stating that his father's condition was serious last night, but that he improved towards morning. The crisis had not yet passed, though the doctors were of the opinion that today's improvement would help him to pass the crisis when it came.

Elder Orson Smith, ex-president of the Cache [Utah] Stake, reached Seattle [Washington] today on his way home. This word was conveyed to President Snow by Brother Isaac Smith, of Logan [Utah], to whom Orson had telegraphed the information. (1)


-- Wednesday, Oct 25, 1899
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Salt Lake City. Clear and cool. 9 a.m. There was a meeting of Apostles F. M. Lyman, A. H. Lund, A. O. Woodruff, and myself at the [Improvement] Era Office to investigate the case of Leroy Campbell vs. Silas S. Smith, sent up on appeal from the high council of the San Luis Stake. Briefly stated the trouble was this: Leroy Campbell was in possession of some leased land, but the lease had run out. He intended, however, to re-lease the land and with that intention in view was still cultivating it. In the meantime, and without consulting Campbell, Silas S. Smith slipped over to the land office and leased the land for himself. The decision of the bishop's court, which was also confirmed by the high council, was rendered in favor of Leroy Campbell.

The following is a copy of our report to President L. Snow:

Salt Lake City,

Oct. 24th, 1899.

Pres. Lorenzo Snow,

Dear Brother:

After a careful reading and consideration of the papers in the case of Leroy Campbell vs. Silas S. Smith, San Luis Stake, we find:

1st. That the case was sent up on appeal from the bishop's court to the high council, and from the high council to the First Presidency; 2nd. That the case was very wisely and properly handled both in the bishop's court and the high council; 3rd. That the decision of the bishop's court was sustained by the unanimous vote of the bishopric, and that the decision of the high council, sustaining the action of the lower court, was acquiesced in by every member of the high council.

We can see no reason why the decision of these two courts should be modified or reversed and would, therefore, recommend it to your favorable notice and approval.

Your brethren,

F. M. Lyman,

A. H. Lund,

(Signed) A. O. Woodruff,

Rudger Clawson. (2)

Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
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

LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow

Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

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Lorenzo Snow, Oct 20, 1899; Friday

-- Oct 20, 1899; Friday
President Lorenzo Snow was at the office; President [George Q.] Cannon still in the East; President [Joseph F.] Smith absent on account of sickness in his family.

President Snow had a call this morning from Arthur Pratt, representing the Republican City Committee. On behalf of his party he asked the President that the Deseret News be strictly non-partisan in tone during the campaign preceding the coming election. (1)


-- Oct 20, 1899
Tithing properties-Legal status-- Salt Lake City, Utah.

The constant change of personnel in the lay leadership program of the L.D.S. Church raised legal questions as to the proper conveyance of Church property by Bishops and Stake Presidents to their successors. The problem had probably been further complicated as a result of the escheatment of L.D.S. Church property to the federal government under the Edmunds-Tucker Act some years before.

Office of The First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Salt Lake City, Utah, October 20, 1899.

DEAR BROTHER:

The Presiding Bishopric have been recently making efforts to ascertain the legal status of the tithing properties of the several stakes and wards of Zion, and from reports already received it is learned that some of the titles have not been properly conveyed, others have not been secured and a great many are more or less defective.

In discussing the best methods of perfecting and transferring unsecured titles; also seeing that all future titles are promptly and properly conveyed, we have concluded that this can best he done by the Stake Presidencies themselves giving it their personal attention.

We have requested the Presiding Bishopric to continue their labors in this direction, and to communicate with you in detail in this business; and we trust that you will find it convenient to give their communications prompt and careful attention.

We are, with kind regards, Your Brethren, LORENZO SNOW, GEORGE Q. CANNON, JOSEPH F. SMITH. {1899-October 20-Circular letter, Church Historian's Library,} (2)


-- Oct 21, 1899; Saturday
President Lorenzo Snow was at the office, where he received a morning call from Elder Angus M. Cannon, President of Salt Lake Stake, who informed him that President George Q. Cannon was prostrate with pneumonia in New York City. This news came by telegram last night to President Cannon's family.

Brother Samuel Thatcher, of Logan [Utah], called upon President Snow. He had recently married a woman who was not a member of the Church, and was living with her, notwithstanding that he had had a wife (since dead) sealed to him under the covenant of the priesthood. His Bishop (Brother Lewis) had refused to give him a transfer to another Ward, as being in full fellowship without the case being stated to the President of the Church. President Snow, after some conversation with Brother Thatcher, who signified his willingness to make amends, wrote to Bishop Lewis, asking him to permit Brother Thatcher to appear before the Ward priesthood meeting, confess his error, and ask to

be forgiven. This done, and forgiveness granted, he would be entitled to the desired certificate. (1)

Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
2 - Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)

LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow

Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

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Lorenzo Snow, Thursday, Oct 19, 1899

-- Thursday, Oct 19, 1899
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Salt Lake City. Clear and cool. 11 a.m. Meeting of the brethren at the temple. Present: Pres. L. Snow, Pres. J. F. Smith, Apostles F. M. Lyman, J. H. Smith, Geo. Teasdale, H. J. Grant, A. H. Lund, M. F. Cowley, A. O. Woodruff, and myself; also G. F. Gibbs, clerk.

A letter from Platte D. Lyman, president of the European Mission, was read. He said that Elder H. L. James would leave for home in a few days having in charge the body of Elder [Samuel T.] Clark, who recently died in Cardiff, Wales. Said they had been compelled to release several elderly missionaries on account of physical disabilities. Reported that two elders in Germany had been disfellowshiped for transgression. Said that missionaries were needed in most of the European missions.

Pres. J. F. Smith stated that brethren going on missions who were over sixty years of age were instructed that, as the church did not require elders beyond that age to take missions, if they were released on account of sickness or physical disability, they would be obliged to bear their expenses home.

Apostle A. O. Woodruff said that more native elders were needed in the Swiss and German Missions. President Snow thought that the elders who go out to preach the gospel should have a special training (in a training school) for missionary work. Thought that perhaps arrangements could be made in our church schools for such training. The brethren, generally, endorsed the views of Pres. Snow.

Division of the Salt Lake Stake. The committee appointed on the division of the Salt Lake Stake reported. After some discussion it was moved by Apostle F. M. Lyman and seconded by Apostle Cowley that the Salt Lake Stake be divided into three stakes, to be divided as follows, to wit: The Salt Lake Stake to comprise all that district of country lying north of 10th South Street, Salt Lake City, to the north line of the Salt Lake Stake—including Hunter, Brighton, and North [Point] Wards (and Pleasant Green, if the people there desire it). The second stake to comprise all that district of country lying south of 10th South Street, Salt Lake City, and west of the State [Street] road to the south line of the Salt Lake Stake. The third stake to comprise all that district of country lying south of 10th South St., Salt Lake City, and east of the State Road to the south line of the Salt Lake Stake. Motion put and carried by unanimous vote. Moved and carried that the stake southeast of Salt

Lake City be called the Granite Stake of Zion. Moved and carried that the stake lying southwest of Salt Lake City be called the Jordan Stake of Zion. Moved and carried that O. P. Miller be selected as president of the Jordan Stake, and Frank Y. Taylor, president of the Granite Stake.

Apostle J. H. Smith moved that Apostle M. F. Cowley be sent to visit the N. W. States Mission, as some matters in that mission needed attention. Carried.

I expressed the opinion that the recent excellent instructions and teachings given on the principle of tithing be followed up with some definite action, and suggested that the brethren in visiting the conferences should call the bishopric[s] of the wards together and give them some special instructions—especially in regard to visiting members of their wards who were slack in the payment of tithes or were non-tithepayers, and seek in [a] private way to convert them to the principle. The idea was approved by the brethren.

It was moved and carried that hereafter the church bear the expense of furnishing the missionaries with their blessings. They have been required to pay 50 cents for them.

Moved and carried that the Mutual Improvement Conferences be held at the time of the stake conferences—the evening to be used for that purpose. Prayer by Apostle M. F. Cowley. (1)


-- Oct 19, 1899; Thursday
Salt Lake Temple, 11 A.M. Present: Lorenzo Snow, Joseph F. Smith, Francis M. Lyman, John Henry Smith, George Teasdale, Heber J. Grant, Anthon H. Lund, Matthias F. Cowley and Rudger Clawson.

A letter was read from Elder Platte D. Lyman, President of the European Mission, giving a report on the needs of that mission, and stating incidentally that John A. Borlaise and Erastus M. Ronnow had been found guilty of transgressions requiring excommunication from the Church. Details would follow the writer said, he not having received them at the time of writing. The main part of the letter referred to the practice of calling men on missions who were up in years, also men who were infirm, and questioned the wisdom of this course. A missionary who was in ill health had lately to be released, owing to his inability to perform the required labor.

President Smith stated that as a rule when men along in years asked for a missionary certificate, it was with the understanding that the chief object in view was the gathering of their

genealogies, and that they would devote a portion of their time to preaching the Gospel. They were told that it was expected of them that they would pay their own way, including the fare going and returning. The speaker now expressed himself to the effect that no man should receive a missionary certificate unless he were regularly called on a mission. It had been found that the presence of Elders not regularly called demoralized more or less the discipline of the missionaries. Referring to the inexperience of many, President Smith suggested that some kind of missionary course be provided for the young men, so that they could devote from three to sis months to religious study previous to going, such time to be regarded as part of their missions. He thought that young men prepared in this way would do more good than twice as many without such preparation.

Brother John Henry Smith endorsed President Smith's suggestion, which he considered one of great moment. He added, however, that he thought the young men should receive a year's notice with a view to preparing themselves.

Brother Lund was also heartily in favor of a school preparation for our young missionaries. It could then be ascertained whether it would be better to have the young men in the mission field than at home. As it is now, some are sent abroad who ought to remain at home, while others are sent to a field of labor where they do little or no good, and yet might be useful in another field. The result is that they not only disappoint the presidents of missions, but create an almost useless expense to their friends and the Church as well.

This matter was dropped without any action being taken.

Brother John Henry Smith, one of the committee of two having under consideration the dividing of Salt Lake Stake, reported on behalf of the committee (Brother Lund and himself) that the Stake could be divided into three, with a population in each of the two new stakes averaging a little over seven thousand; but it was a question in their minds as to the advisability of creating more than one new Stake at present.

President Snow remarked that he believed in such divisions where they could be made consistently, if for no other reason than to give men the opportunity to act in office for the purpose of their development.

Brother Lyman moved that Salt Lake Stake be divided into three, the boundary lines to be on Tenth South and State streets. He thought it a good idea to bring Pleasant Green, Brighton, Hunter and North Point into this Stake. The motion was seconded by Brother Cowley.

Brother Lund explained that the reason the committee favored the division into two Stakes instead of three, was that in the latter event two of the Ward would have to be divided, one of them being Mill Creek.

This remark brought forth the statement from President Smith that the people of Mill Creek had been petitioning for years for the division of their Ward, but the President of the Stake (Brother Angus M. Cannon) would not listen to it.

Brother Lund now added that he believed more good could be done by dividing the Stake into three than into two.

On the subject of non-tithepayers, Brother Clawson suggested that the Bishopric of each Ward take up a private labor with them, and that they cease talking about the matter in public.

President Snow added that the Bishops should not be hard upon the members of their Wards if they did not have faith enough to pay tithing; also that they should use wisdom in refusing recommends to the Temple in case of those who were not tithepayers. The President requested the committee on division of Salt Lake Stake to continue their labors in the way of readjusting the Wards that would be divided by reason of the action taken.

Upon the subject of Mutual Improvement Associations, Brother Grant advocated the idea of permitting them to meet in conference on the evenings of the Stake conferences, in order to avoid so many gatherings of this kind. Heretofore it had been the custom for the Y.M.M.I.A. to hold two days conferences, and this, with the regular conferences, made it quite burdensome for the brethren to attend. The suggestion was approved by the Council.

Brother Grant also brought up the subject of missionary blessings, stating that our missionaries, as a rule, when being set apart, had their blessings reported, and that it cost them fifty cents each for this service. He proposed that Brother Martin Lindsay, the stenographer, be paid a regular salary by the Church, and that a part of his labor consist of reporting these blessings free. This also was approved by the Council. ... (2)

Endnotes:
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 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes

LDS History Chronology: Lorenzo Snow

Mormon History Timeline: the life of Lorenzo Snow
http://lds-church-history.blogspot.com/

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