April 1849
CONFERENCE MINUTES
First Day.
Pursuant to the Semi-Annual adjournment of October 1848, the Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, on the 6th of April, A. D., 1849, convened at the Stand, prepared for that purpose in the Hollow, about 60 rods northwest of the Tabernacle, at 2 o’clock, P.M. The morning having been so rainy, that they could not assemble.
Present of the Twelve, Orson Hyde, George A. Smith and Ezra T. Benson.
First Day.
Pursuant to the Semi-Annual adjournment of October 1848, the Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, on the 6th of April, A. D., 1849, convened at the Stand, prepared for that purpose in the Hollow, about 60 rods northwest of the Tabernacle, at 2 o’clock, P.M. The morning having been so rainy, that they could not assemble.
Present of the Twelve, Orson Hyde, George A. Smith and Ezra T. Benson.
President O. Hyde
addressed the assembly relative to the prosperous condition of the Church, and our duties to our Heavenly Father, the manifestations of his kind providence; the present aspect of the weather; the severity of the past winter, and the local affairs of the Kingdom of God.
The Conference then organized—President George A. Smith, moving, that Pres’t. O. Hyde act as President of said Conference (Carried.)
Pres’t. O. Hyde motioned, that E. M. Greene and James Sloan be clerks of said Conference. (Carried.)
Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith moved that Robert Campbell be Reporter, to report speeches, according to the best of his ability. (Carried.)
Pres’t Geo. A. Smith moved that James Craigan and Philemon Merrill act as Marshalls during this Conference, in seeing that the congregation is properly seated, horses and wagons kept off from the ground; all things kept quiet, and that they call to their aid as many good men as shall be necessary. (Carried.)
addressed the assembly relative to the prosperous condition of the Church, and our duties to our Heavenly Father, the manifestations of his kind providence; the present aspect of the weather; the severity of the past winter, and the local affairs of the Kingdom of God.
The Conference then organized—President George A. Smith, moving, that Pres’t. O. Hyde act as President of said Conference (Carried.)
Pres’t. O. Hyde motioned, that E. M. Greene and James Sloan be clerks of said Conference. (Carried.)
Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith moved that Robert Campbell be Reporter, to report speeches, according to the best of his ability. (Carried.)
Pres’t Geo. A. Smith moved that James Craigan and Philemon Merrill act as Marshalls during this Conference, in seeing that the congregation is properly seated, horses and wagons kept off from the ground; all things kept quiet, and that they call to their aid as many good men as shall be necessary. (Carried.)
Pres’t. O. Hyde,
said there were some items of business to be brought up before the Conference; but in consequence of the late hour and the wind should not bring them up this afternoon. He would leave it for Brs. Smith and Benson to touch upon the items, that the people may have them to reflect upon; said he wanted some good sermons preached to warm up the hearts of the brethren. As the cold winter is now past, and the sun begins to climb the northern latitude, to warm the earth with his benign rays; so may our hearts be warmed with the Spirit of God. Spoke relative to prayer: said, it was the ancient order of things for the Saints to kneel before the Lord, to pour forth their fervent desires unto him; but we have been through so much, and passed through so many trials, and placed in so many different and difficult circumstances, that it has become very common for us to pray standing up. But let us kneel. He then knelt with the assembly and poured forth a fervent prayer; imploring the divine spirit to conduct and guide the affairs of the Conference; to bless the Saints in the Salt Lake Valley and those scattered abroad.
The Brethren sung, “Come all ye sons of Zion.”
Pres’t E. T. Benson moved, that A. Burnham be requested to act as Chorister during the Conference. (Carried.)
said there were some items of business to be brought up before the Conference; but in consequence of the late hour and the wind should not bring them up this afternoon. He would leave it for Brs. Smith and Benson to touch upon the items, that the people may have them to reflect upon; said he wanted some good sermons preached to warm up the hearts of the brethren. As the cold winter is now past, and the sun begins to climb the northern latitude, to warm the earth with his benign rays; so may our hearts be warmed with the Spirit of God. Spoke relative to prayer: said, it was the ancient order of things for the Saints to kneel before the Lord, to pour forth their fervent desires unto him; but we have been through so much, and passed through so many trials, and placed in so many different and difficult circumstances, that it has become very common for us to pray standing up. But let us kneel. He then knelt with the assembly and poured forth a fervent prayer; imploring the divine spirit to conduct and guide the affairs of the Conference; to bless the Saints in the Salt Lake Valley and those scattered abroad.
The Brethren sung, “Come all ye sons of Zion.”
Pres’t E. T. Benson moved, that A. Burnham be requested to act as Chorister during the Conference. (Carried.)
Prest. O. Hyde
proposed that seats be reserved in front of the stand for the singers, and that all who are singers, no matter whether they understand the rules of singing or not, come forward to those seats and mingle their voices in harmonious songs of praise to God our Heavenly Father. He further said, there had been complaints brought to them (referring to Presidents G. A. Smith, E. T. Benson and himself,) about the dam that had been erected across the Musquitoe Creek, by Mr. Meeks. Said, the Church has nothing to do with it, but the law was open on this as well as other matters, and there was plenty of jurisdiction in the county. He would recommend that the people living down there, who are incommoded, meet, and with Mr. Meeks agree on some three or five good men, disinterested; who shall examine the affair, and then say what is right; and let both parties agree to abide their decision, and then do it. I do not like for men to lose their labor, neither do I like for settlements to be exposed to sickness and disease by stagnant waters.
proposed that seats be reserved in front of the stand for the singers, and that all who are singers, no matter whether they understand the rules of singing or not, come forward to those seats and mingle their voices in harmonious songs of praise to God our Heavenly Father. He further said, there had been complaints brought to them (referring to Presidents G. A. Smith, E. T. Benson and himself,) about the dam that had been erected across the Musquitoe Creek, by Mr. Meeks. Said, the Church has nothing to do with it, but the law was open on this as well as other matters, and there was plenty of jurisdiction in the county. He would recommend that the people living down there, who are incommoded, meet, and with Mr. Meeks agree on some three or five good men, disinterested; who shall examine the affair, and then say what is right; and let both parties agree to abide their decision, and then do it. I do not like for men to lose their labor, neither do I like for settlements to be exposed to sickness and disease by stagnant waters.
Prest. Geo. A. Smith,
said, notwithstanding it was windy, he thought best to lay before the Brethren some items of business for their consideration. Spoke on church policy; thought it best for all to work for each others general good; recommended that the Brethren keep up their organized meetings of the High Priests’ Quorum; and also of the Seventies; and that one or more officers from each branch attend said meetings, so that a continual semi-monthly report of intelligence may be had with each branch. Spoke concerning administering to the poor; locations of the Saints coming in the present expected emigration. The large farmers and those who are able, leaving with their teams, and leaving the poor without teams. He wished to organize a body of Elders to travel and preach through the county, so that each branch may have preaching every Sabbath.
Prest. E. T. Benson spoke on the drift of emigration. He went in for the salt instead of the gold.
Prest. O. Hyde said, we were always right and always safe, when we go in the channel of the counsel of this church.
Prest. G. A. Smith spoke relative to the gold mines, &c. Also requested the brethren to invite in those who are from a distance, and not prepared to take care of themselves.
The Brethren sung “Come let us anew,” &c., and adjourned until 10 o’clock, A.M. tomorrow.
said, notwithstanding it was windy, he thought best to lay before the Brethren some items of business for their consideration. Spoke on church policy; thought it best for all to work for each others general good; recommended that the Brethren keep up their organized meetings of the High Priests’ Quorum; and also of the Seventies; and that one or more officers from each branch attend said meetings, so that a continual semi-monthly report of intelligence may be had with each branch. Spoke concerning administering to the poor; locations of the Saints coming in the present expected emigration. The large farmers and those who are able, leaving with their teams, and leaving the poor without teams. He wished to organize a body of Elders to travel and preach through the county, so that each branch may have preaching every Sabbath.
Prest. E. T. Benson spoke on the drift of emigration. He went in for the salt instead of the gold.
Prest. O. Hyde said, we were always right and always safe, when we go in the channel of the counsel of this church.
Prest. G. A. Smith spoke relative to the gold mines, &c. Also requested the brethren to invite in those who are from a distance, and not prepared to take care of themselves.
The Brethren sung “Come let us anew,” &c., and adjourned until 10 o’clock, A.M. tomorrow.
Second Day. Saturday, April 7th, 1849.
Pursuant to yesterday’s adjournment, the Conference convened at the stand, at the appointed hour. Present, Presidents O. Hyde, Geo. A. Smith, and E. T. Benson. The High Council seated in order, in front of the stand.
The Choir comfortably seated, and the Marshalls performing promptly their duty. The Band also was present. The weather was beautiful.
The Choir sung, “Come, come, ye Saints,” &c.—with music.
Prayer by Prest. O. Hyde, and the Choir again sung, “Let Zion in her beauty rise,” &c.
Pursuant to yesterday’s adjournment, the Conference convened at the stand, at the appointed hour. Present, Presidents O. Hyde, Geo. A. Smith, and E. T. Benson. The High Council seated in order, in front of the stand.
The Choir comfortably seated, and the Marshalls performing promptly their duty. The Band also was present. The weather was beautiful.
The Choir sung, “Come, come, ye Saints,” &c.—with music.
Prayer by Prest. O. Hyde, and the Choir again sung, “Let Zion in her beauty rise,” &c.
Pres’t O. Hyde
addressed the Conference, calling the minds of the people to a remembrance of their duties of the Divine Ruler, with thanksgiving for life and health. I rejoice to see so many countenances sparkling with health; and if I may judge from their expressive smiles, a good spirit inhabits each bosom. Spoke relative to riches; the work of removing the Saints to the Valley; the arrival of emigrants. If the rich all go away, we who stay, will be on the Bishop’s hands, (Geo. A. Smith said the Bishop is going,) then we shall be left free. The wages offered for hands to go in the Government Trains, will be inducements that will take away the nerve and strength of our settlements. Is this good policy? Some will go to California or Oregon, on an 18 months’ trip, probably at $40 per month which will be $720,; and when they return having paid their expenses and the debts that their families have contracted during their absence, it will swallow up their wages, and they will be no better off than those who remained at home with their families, and will not have half so many chickens, pigs, calves, &c. Is it wisdom, when we are not demanded, when our country is not invaded, for us to leave? Is it wisdom on another hand, for the strength of our people to leave? I tell you, if you go in this way, I will go too. I am willing to play my part, but I want some of the strength and nerve of the people to be yoked with me.
After much counsel on this matter, we have come to the conclusion, that it is best for us that every man, that don’t go to the Valley stay at home, and raise grain to feed the hungry. We want every man that is a farmer, who intends going to the Valley to put in a good crop, and if you cannot sell it, leave it with the proper authorities for the benefit of the poor. We are placed here to do good to each other. We can do no good to God, but we can do good to his Image here on the earth. I had rather trust the chance of the salvation of that man that remembers the poor, than the man that has his £20,000 sterling a year for preaching. Do not let the California gold or government wages entice you away. Related Br. H. C. Kimball’s dream of the bear with golden claws and golden teeth, which may be explained in the high wages of Government, and the gold of California. We will not say, you shall not go to California or in the Government service; but we, as your humble servants, recommend that you do not go. My exhortation is more particularly intended for those who purpose going to California and Oregon. If a man can get in a good crop, and leave his family comfortable, have his pigs, &c., growing, and go for a few months, we have no objections.
Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith, moved, that A. P. Rockwood, Lyman Stoddard and William Snow be a Committee to receive reports of Branches from their Presiding officers. (Carried.) Reports to be made by to-morrow noon.
Pres’t. O. Hyde nominated, Hiram Clark, to baptize such as wish to be baptized for the remission of sins during the Conference.
Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith, moved, that Joseph Young, George Coulson, H. W. Miller and Joseph S. Clarke, be a Committee to ordain during this Conference.
Pres’t. O. Hyde said, in relation to ordinations. Don’t ordain them for their own accommodation, but ordain such as sustain just and equitable characters, and ordain them for the strengthening and building up of the kingdom of God.
Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith, moved, that some Elders be appointed to travel and preach through the county. (Carried.)
Pres’t. O. Hyde said, we wanted men that would devote their time to it, and moved that Joseph Young, Lyman Stoddard, J. M. Benson, Hiram Clark, H. W. Miller, and James Snow be said Traveling Elders. (Carried.)
Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith, moved, that those six men, be a Committee to devise the plan of their appointments, and carry out their measures; calling to their aid such of the High Priests, Seventies and Elders, as shall be necessary. (Carried.)
The Quorum of the High Priests will meet at this place the first Sabbath, and the Seventies the third Sabbath of each month.
addressed the Conference, calling the minds of the people to a remembrance of their duties of the Divine Ruler, with thanksgiving for life and health. I rejoice to see so many countenances sparkling with health; and if I may judge from their expressive smiles, a good spirit inhabits each bosom. Spoke relative to riches; the work of removing the Saints to the Valley; the arrival of emigrants. If the rich all go away, we who stay, will be on the Bishop’s hands, (Geo. A. Smith said the Bishop is going,) then we shall be left free. The wages offered for hands to go in the Government Trains, will be inducements that will take away the nerve and strength of our settlements. Is this good policy? Some will go to California or Oregon, on an 18 months’ trip, probably at $40 per month which will be $720,; and when they return having paid their expenses and the debts that their families have contracted during their absence, it will swallow up their wages, and they will be no better off than those who remained at home with their families, and will not have half so many chickens, pigs, calves, &c. Is it wisdom, when we are not demanded, when our country is not invaded, for us to leave? Is it wisdom on another hand, for the strength of our people to leave? I tell you, if you go in this way, I will go too. I am willing to play my part, but I want some of the strength and nerve of the people to be yoked with me.
After much counsel on this matter, we have come to the conclusion, that it is best for us that every man, that don’t go to the Valley stay at home, and raise grain to feed the hungry. We want every man that is a farmer, who intends going to the Valley to put in a good crop, and if you cannot sell it, leave it with the proper authorities for the benefit of the poor. We are placed here to do good to each other. We can do no good to God, but we can do good to his Image here on the earth. I had rather trust the chance of the salvation of that man that remembers the poor, than the man that has his £20,000 sterling a year for preaching. Do not let the California gold or government wages entice you away. Related Br. H. C. Kimball’s dream of the bear with golden claws and golden teeth, which may be explained in the high wages of Government, and the gold of California. We will not say, you shall not go to California or in the Government service; but we, as your humble servants, recommend that you do not go. My exhortation is more particularly intended for those who purpose going to California and Oregon. If a man can get in a good crop, and leave his family comfortable, have his pigs, &c., growing, and go for a few months, we have no objections.
Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith, moved, that A. P. Rockwood, Lyman Stoddard and William Snow be a Committee to receive reports of Branches from their Presiding officers. (Carried.) Reports to be made by to-morrow noon.
Pres’t. O. Hyde nominated, Hiram Clark, to baptize such as wish to be baptized for the remission of sins during the Conference.
Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith, moved, that Joseph Young, George Coulson, H. W. Miller and Joseph S. Clarke, be a Committee to ordain during this Conference.
Pres’t. O. Hyde said, in relation to ordinations. Don’t ordain them for their own accommodation, but ordain such as sustain just and equitable characters, and ordain them for the strengthening and building up of the kingdom of God.
Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith, moved, that some Elders be appointed to travel and preach through the county. (Carried.)
Pres’t. O. Hyde said, we wanted men that would devote their time to it, and moved that Joseph Young, Lyman Stoddard, J. M. Benson, Hiram Clark, H. W. Miller, and James Snow be said Traveling Elders. (Carried.)
Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith, moved, that those six men, be a Committee to devise the plan of their appointments, and carry out their measures; calling to their aid such of the High Priests, Seventies and Elders, as shall be necessary. (Carried.)
The Quorum of the High Priests will meet at this place the first Sabbath, and the Seventies the third Sabbath of each month.
Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith,
spoke relative to the business of the Conference, and the plans to carry out our measures to sustain and carry on the work of the Kingdom of God; urged the necessity of the Brethren that go to the mountains to assist in getting in spring crops, and if they cannot sell them leave them for the poor. This is the best place for Mormons to make a fit-out. From the experience of the past we find it is best that each man make all preparations as though he was going to stay.
Moved, that it was the mind and council of this Conference, that every man that intends going to the Valley, do something in the way of labor, to leave for the benefit of the poor who shall stay behind him. (Carried.)
spoke relative to the business of the Conference, and the plans to carry out our measures to sustain and carry on the work of the Kingdom of God; urged the necessity of the Brethren that go to the mountains to assist in getting in spring crops, and if they cannot sell them leave them for the poor. This is the best place for Mormons to make a fit-out. From the experience of the past we find it is best that each man make all preparations as though he was going to stay.
Moved, that it was the mind and council of this Conference, that every man that intends going to the Valley, do something in the way of labor, to leave for the benefit of the poor who shall stay behind him. (Carried.)
President E. T. Benson
said, he rose to bear testimony to what had been said, and to the correctness of the business that had been done. We talk about moving to the Valley, about our labor, our stock calves, &c., because it is our religion. We are called to pass through trials and tribulation to make us perfect. Jesus passed through all these to make him perfect, yet he was without sin. I can bear affliction when I can have the sympathies and confidence of this people. We have many things to present to this Conference. Every man that has named the name of Christ wants salvation. Every man and woman must learn their duty, and not be slothful servants; spoke on anticipation and the millennium. If you want an exaltation press forward, be diligent, and follow counsel. Ye Elders of Israel, what is your calling here? To hoe potatoes. But anticipate when you get to the Valley. What then? Why, you will be sent to the nations of the earth. Do you think of it? I think of it; I pray about it, and I want you to pray about it too. Before I get through I shall touch the hearts of the rich. We have some Church property to carry to the Valley, and we are going to roll it off from our shoulders and you must bear it. A year ago last fall and winter, it is known that numbers of Elders were sent to the East to collect means to help off the Presidency last Spring to the Valley. Br. Erastus Snow was traveling in New York, and I was in Pennsylvania, and when Br. Snow had been laboring in a certain Branch, and the Brethren were ready to respond to the call, a certain Elder and a good man too, gets up, and said to the Brethren, you need not respond to that call; I have been to Nauvoo, and among the Saints, and I know that when any of the authorities want anything the Brethren immediately hand it out to them. Now I mean that Elder shall eat his words. He is here in the congregation—I have seen him to-day; now let him come forward, and give some cattle, and help to roll off this property. If he don’t want his name exposed, he may come privately—Nicodemus like. I believe all things will work right. And now Brethren I want you to get the good spirit. When a man has been legally baptized into this Church, he becomes a legal heir to the Holy Ghost, and need not complain of being lonesome, for he can commune with the Comforter when he is about his work. Faith is the gift of God, and there is but one principle on which he will give it. Some will say, if we carry the church property will you pay us for it? I will tell you; the man that helps us in sending the church property shall have our blessing. We want to strengthen the hands of the Brethren in the mountains; they are raising crops, and let us do our part.
Pres’t. O. Hyde moved to adjourn one hour and one-fourth, and meet at the same place.
Dismission by Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith.
said, he rose to bear testimony to what had been said, and to the correctness of the business that had been done. We talk about moving to the Valley, about our labor, our stock calves, &c., because it is our religion. We are called to pass through trials and tribulation to make us perfect. Jesus passed through all these to make him perfect, yet he was without sin. I can bear affliction when I can have the sympathies and confidence of this people. We have many things to present to this Conference. Every man that has named the name of Christ wants salvation. Every man and woman must learn their duty, and not be slothful servants; spoke on anticipation and the millennium. If you want an exaltation press forward, be diligent, and follow counsel. Ye Elders of Israel, what is your calling here? To hoe potatoes. But anticipate when you get to the Valley. What then? Why, you will be sent to the nations of the earth. Do you think of it? I think of it; I pray about it, and I want you to pray about it too. Before I get through I shall touch the hearts of the rich. We have some Church property to carry to the Valley, and we are going to roll it off from our shoulders and you must bear it. A year ago last fall and winter, it is known that numbers of Elders were sent to the East to collect means to help off the Presidency last Spring to the Valley. Br. Erastus Snow was traveling in New York, and I was in Pennsylvania, and when Br. Snow had been laboring in a certain Branch, and the Brethren were ready to respond to the call, a certain Elder and a good man too, gets up, and said to the Brethren, you need not respond to that call; I have been to Nauvoo, and among the Saints, and I know that when any of the authorities want anything the Brethren immediately hand it out to them. Now I mean that Elder shall eat his words. He is here in the congregation—I have seen him to-day; now let him come forward, and give some cattle, and help to roll off this property. If he don’t want his name exposed, he may come privately—Nicodemus like. I believe all things will work right. And now Brethren I want you to get the good spirit. When a man has been legally baptized into this Church, he becomes a legal heir to the Holy Ghost, and need not complain of being lonesome, for he can commune with the Comforter when he is about his work. Faith is the gift of God, and there is but one principle on which he will give it. Some will say, if we carry the church property will you pay us for it? I will tell you; the man that helps us in sending the church property shall have our blessing. We want to strengthen the hands of the Brethren in the mountains; they are raising crops, and let us do our part.
Pres’t. O. Hyde moved to adjourn one hour and one-fourth, and meet at the same place.
Dismission by Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith.
Saturday, 2 o’clock, P.M.
Conference convened pursuant to adjournment; the weather was fine.
The assembly was called to order, and E. M. Greene read H. C. Kimball’s letter of recommendation to Byram Bybee, John Hopper, George Clawson, W. C. Matthews, James Steel, Franklin Edmunds, Henry Oviatt, Peter Hanson, George Duncan, Joel Terry, Jason Hawes and Orson Whitney; certifying that they were all members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in good standing; and that they had been faithful in the discharge of their duties as teamsters with him. Recommending them to the favorable consideration of the Saints and church authorities. Praying for the blessing of God our Heavenly Father to rest upon them. Written and dated at the 5th crossing of the Sweet-water, and signed. (H. C. Kimball.)
Prayer by Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith.
Conference convened pursuant to adjournment; the weather was fine.
The assembly was called to order, and E. M. Greene read H. C. Kimball’s letter of recommendation to Byram Bybee, John Hopper, George Clawson, W. C. Matthews, James Steel, Franklin Edmunds, Henry Oviatt, Peter Hanson, George Duncan, Joel Terry, Jason Hawes and Orson Whitney; certifying that they were all members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in good standing; and that they had been faithful in the discharge of their duties as teamsters with him. Recommending them to the favorable consideration of the Saints and church authorities. Praying for the blessing of God our Heavenly Father to rest upon them. Written and dated at the 5th crossing of the Sweet-water, and signed. (H. C. Kimball.)
Prayer by Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith.
Pres’t. O. Hyde
said, the business of the afternoon would be to devise means to send the public property to the Valley. Recommended that the Brethren make good strong fences, so as not to be troubled with unruly cattle and hogs. Make good fences, if you do not cultivate so much ground, and if you have not so much corn and potatoes, you will have more peace and more of the Holy Ghost. Recommended the establishing of good schools and keeping them up in every settlement in the county.
said, the business of the afternoon would be to devise means to send the public property to the Valley. Recommended that the Brethren make good strong fences, so as not to be troubled with unruly cattle and hogs. Make good fences, if you do not cultivate so much ground, and if you have not so much corn and potatoes, you will have more peace and more of the Holy Ghost. Recommended the establishing of good schools and keeping them up in every settlement in the county.
Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith
spoke on policies—said laws were enacted by all governments to secure peace, protect the innocent, and punish the lawless and disobedient. The organizing hand of civil law has reached us. The county was last season legally organized to all intents and purposes. It is not to speak of the wrongs we have suffered, but to investigate the principle of our being organized. Some have much feeling on this subject. They say if we had not been organized we should have had no taxes to pay; this is a mistake. There is a statue law, attaching to this, and all unorganized portions of country, in the State of Iowa, to the respective counties, east, for revenue, election and judicial purposes. Our taxes then would have been paid to officers from that quarter. Instead of one assessor of our own appointment, we should have four or five to pay from the other counties; also we should have officers with processes to haul away our best men for every frivolous scrape that any apostate might set up. I was a strong Democrat before the party got up the bill in the Legislature to annul or break our organization, and now much more so. I mean, if the Lord and my good Brethren will help me to go to a place the farthest from these good Christians that I can find, where every man can have a fair chance in the world. The power of law throughout the States, which was designed for the well-being and justice of all men, has been used on us, only to hold our prophets and good men while mobs have shot them. Let us live as we ever have, good and upright citizens. It was to save us from the consequences, foreseen by the Presidency, that they counseled our organization.
Pres’t. E. T. Benson, corroborated Pres’t. Smith’s statements, and moved that we sustain the organization. (Carried.)
The band played, “Hail Columbia.”
spoke on policies—said laws were enacted by all governments to secure peace, protect the innocent, and punish the lawless and disobedient. The organizing hand of civil law has reached us. The county was last season legally organized to all intents and purposes. It is not to speak of the wrongs we have suffered, but to investigate the principle of our being organized. Some have much feeling on this subject. They say if we had not been organized we should have had no taxes to pay; this is a mistake. There is a statue law, attaching to this, and all unorganized portions of country, in the State of Iowa, to the respective counties, east, for revenue, election and judicial purposes. Our taxes then would have been paid to officers from that quarter. Instead of one assessor of our own appointment, we should have four or five to pay from the other counties; also we should have officers with processes to haul away our best men for every frivolous scrape that any apostate might set up. I was a strong Democrat before the party got up the bill in the Legislature to annul or break our organization, and now much more so. I mean, if the Lord and my good Brethren will help me to go to a place the farthest from these good Christians that I can find, where every man can have a fair chance in the world. The power of law throughout the States, which was designed for the well-being and justice of all men, has been used on us, only to hold our prophets and good men while mobs have shot them. Let us live as we ever have, good and upright citizens. It was to save us from the consequences, foreseen by the Presidency, that they counseled our organization.
Pres’t. E. T. Benson, corroborated Pres’t. Smith’s statements, and moved that we sustain the organization. (Carried.)
The band played, “Hail Columbia.”
Pres’t O. Hyde
said, he wanted to see if the united faith of this Conference would go with him in offering a prayer in the name of Jesus Christ, that every person that is in this county, or that may come into it, and shall steal anything, it may so turn in the Providence of God, that he, or she, shall be exposed and punished; and if you are with me in this, let me know it by a show of hands, and there was a full expression in the affirmative. Well now, to get the carding machine and other property to the Valley. There is about five tons; it will take two wagons and five or six yoke of cattle to carry the carding machine and printing press, which we want to go with brother Egan who starts about the 15th of this month. Now we want the man that has money, oxen or wagons that can go, to come forward and let us know his name.
Isaac Matthews, gave one pair of oxen; Isaac Houston, one wagon and Alexander S. Stanley, one wagon.
said, he wanted to see if the united faith of this Conference would go with him in offering a prayer in the name of Jesus Christ, that every person that is in this county, or that may come into it, and shall steal anything, it may so turn in the Providence of God, that he, or she, shall be exposed and punished; and if you are with me in this, let me know it by a show of hands, and there was a full expression in the affirmative. Well now, to get the carding machine and other property to the Valley. There is about five tons; it will take two wagons and five or six yoke of cattle to carry the carding machine and printing press, which we want to go with brother Egan who starts about the 15th of this month. Now we want the man that has money, oxen or wagons that can go, to come forward and let us know his name.
Isaac Matthews, gave one pair of oxen; Isaac Houston, one wagon and Alexander S. Stanley, one wagon.
Pres’t. E. T. Benson
spoke on the same subject.
spoke on the same subject.
Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith
spoke relative to strays, &c., advised that they be published in the Guardian; the burning of prairies and fences; the western mail; letters to be sent with brother Egan to be lodged with brother Robert Campbell.
Pres’t. E. T. Benson wanted some more oxen, and moved to take up a collection to assist in carrying the church property to the Valley. (Carried.)
The band played “Soldiers’ Joy” and “Century Hornpipe.”
spoke relative to strays, &c., advised that they be published in the Guardian; the burning of prairies and fences; the western mail; letters to be sent with brother Egan to be lodged with brother Robert Campbell.
Pres’t. E. T. Benson wanted some more oxen, and moved to take up a collection to assist in carrying the church property to the Valley. (Carried.)
The band played “Soldiers’ Joy” and “Century Hornpipe.”
Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith
spoke on tithing. Said, the bishops had been instructed to settle with every man; to charge every man with his tithing and credit him with what he pays, so the books will show fairly every balance. Said when we go to the Valley. I doubt not but many men will pay the tenth of what they possess or gain as tithing; and then give, as a free-will offering, four-tenths more to build a Temple. I am going to prophecy once more, the God of Heaven will deal with us just as we deal with his poor Saints. “Dean Swift on Charity.”
spoke on tithing. Said, the bishops had been instructed to settle with every man; to charge every man with his tithing and credit him with what he pays, so the books will show fairly every balance. Said when we go to the Valley. I doubt not but many men will pay the tenth of what they possess or gain as tithing; and then give, as a free-will offering, four-tenths more to build a Temple. I am going to prophecy once more, the God of Heaven will deal with us just as we deal with his poor Saints. “Dean Swift on Charity.”
Pres’t. E. T. Benson
reported $18.75 taken in the collection. He then called for some flour for the teamsters and other provisions. Samuel G. Clark gave 50 pounds flour, George Garner 100 pounds of flour and 1 ham. Charles Bird 100 pounds and 1 ham, Jerome M. Benson 100 pounds flour; Philip Garner 50 pounds flour; Alfred B. Benson 50 pounds flour, 1 ham and 1 bushel of beans; Thomas Butterfield 1 ham and 1 bushel beans, Benjamin K. Bullock 1 ham, Dolly Bullock half bushel of beans, Sam’l B. Merrill 1 shoulder, Solon Foster 40 pounds flour.
Pres’t. E. T. Benson prayed for the blessing of Heaven to rest upon those who thus helped the cause of Zion.
Pres’t Geo. A. smith prayed for the same.
Pres’t. Orson Hyde prayed for the same, and returned thanks to the patrons of the Guardian.
Band played, “Russian March.”
Pres’t Orson Hyde, moved that a committee be appointed to counsel and assist the emigrants in selecting locations. (Carried.)
A. P. Rockwood, George Coulson, Harlow Redfield and Charles Bird were chosen said committee.
Pres’t. O. Hyde moved, that the six traveling Elders act as counsellors to the above committee. (Carried.) Also moved that these Traveling Elders have jurisdiction as bishops to settle all ordinary difficulties among the Brethren. (Carried.) Said, that the question had been asked, if we would cut off from the church, those who should go to the gold “diggins” without counsel? I say, no. We will not cut them off, there is no law transgressed thereby, for which we should cut them off; but they may stand a chance to get their heads cut off at the mines.
Band played, “Auld Lang Syne.”
Conference adjourned until 10 o’clock, tomorrow. Dismissed by E. T. Benson.
reported $18.75 taken in the collection. He then called for some flour for the teamsters and other provisions. Samuel G. Clark gave 50 pounds flour, George Garner 100 pounds of flour and 1 ham. Charles Bird 100 pounds and 1 ham, Jerome M. Benson 100 pounds flour; Philip Garner 50 pounds flour; Alfred B. Benson 50 pounds flour, 1 ham and 1 bushel of beans; Thomas Butterfield 1 ham and 1 bushel beans, Benjamin K. Bullock 1 ham, Dolly Bullock half bushel of beans, Sam’l B. Merrill 1 shoulder, Solon Foster 40 pounds flour.
Pres’t. E. T. Benson prayed for the blessing of Heaven to rest upon those who thus helped the cause of Zion.
Pres’t Geo. A. smith prayed for the same.
Pres’t. Orson Hyde prayed for the same, and returned thanks to the patrons of the Guardian.
Band played, “Russian March.”
Pres’t Orson Hyde, moved that a committee be appointed to counsel and assist the emigrants in selecting locations. (Carried.)
A. P. Rockwood, George Coulson, Harlow Redfield and Charles Bird were chosen said committee.
Pres’t. O. Hyde moved, that the six traveling Elders act as counsellors to the above committee. (Carried.) Also moved that these Traveling Elders have jurisdiction as bishops to settle all ordinary difficulties among the Brethren. (Carried.) Said, that the question had been asked, if we would cut off from the church, those who should go to the gold “diggins” without counsel? I say, no. We will not cut them off, there is no law transgressed thereby, for which we should cut them off; but they may stand a chance to get their heads cut off at the mines.
Band played, “Auld Lang Syne.”
Conference adjourned until 10 o’clock, tomorrow. Dismissed by E. T. Benson.
Third Day. Sunday, April 8th, 1849.
Conference convened at 10 o’clock, A.M. The sun shone clear and warm. Pres’t. O. Hyde wished seats to be reserved for the ladies.
The Choir sung, “Come let us anew,” &c.
Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith requested order and attention. Opened the meeting by Prayer.
The Choir sung. “On the Mountain top appearing, &c.”
Conference convened at 10 o’clock, A.M. The sun shone clear and warm. Pres’t. O. Hyde wished seats to be reserved for the ladies.
The Choir sung, “Come let us anew,” &c.
Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith requested order and attention. Opened the meeting by Prayer.
The Choir sung. “On the Mountain top appearing, &c.”
Pres’t. Orson Hyde
said, I rejoice that we have met under such favorable circumstances, and that we have had such fine weather. Spoke of the business already transacted, and reserving to-day, for instruction in the principles and doctrines of the Gospel. Spoke of his acts and proceedings, and wished to take an expression of the feelings of the Brethren in regard to them; and said you have witnessed our course, and you know how to appreciate our acts, and under what circumstances they were performed, and we submit the thing to your decision.
said, I rejoice that we have met under such favorable circumstances, and that we have had such fine weather. Spoke of the business already transacted, and reserving to-day, for instruction in the principles and doctrines of the Gospel. Spoke of his acts and proceedings, and wished to take an expression of the feelings of the Brethren in regard to them; and said you have witnessed our course, and you know how to appreciate our acts, and under what circumstances they were performed, and we submit the thing to your decision.
[Sustaining of the General Authorities]
Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith moved, that Pres’t. Brigham Young be sustained in his office as the President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. (Carried.)
Moved the Heber C. Kimball be sustained as First Counsellor to the President. (Carried.)
Moved that Willard Richards, be sustained as Second Counsellor to the President, and Historian to the Church. (Carried.)
Moved by Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith, that Orson Hyde, P. P. Pratt, Orson Pratt, Wilford Woodruff, John Taylor, Geo. A. Smith, Amasa Lyman and Ezra T. Benson be sustained as the Twelve Apostles in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Each voted for separately, and unanimously.
Moved that Father John Smith be sustained, as Patriarch to the whole Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. (Carried.) ... Smith, that Joseph Young be sustained as the Senior President of all the Seventies; ...cock, 2d; Henry Herriman, 3d; Zerah Pulsipher, 4th; A. P. Rockwood, 5th; Benjamin L. Clapp, 6th; Jedediah M. Grant, 7th. Each voted for separately, and unanimously.
Moved that we sustain N. K. Whitney as Bishop of the whole Church. (Carried.)
Moved that we sustain Orson Hyde, as the President of Pottawatamie county, and Geo. A. Smith and Ezra T. Benson as his Counsellors, and are satisfied with their course. (Carried.)
Moved that we sustain James Allred as the President of the High Council; George W. Harris, Noah S. Bulkley, Lyman Stoddard, George Coulson, William Snow, Ira Oviatt, Aaron Johnson, Henry W. Miller, Jerome M. Benson, Andrew H. Perkins, Silas Richards, and Evan M. Greene as Recorder, Historian and Clerk of the High Council, each voted for separately and unanimously.
Moved that Father Draper be acknowledged as the Patriarch in Pottawatamie county. (Carried.)
Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith moved, that Pres’t. Brigham Young be sustained in his office as the President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. (Carried.)
Moved the Heber C. Kimball be sustained as First Counsellor to the President. (Carried.)
Moved that Willard Richards, be sustained as Second Counsellor to the President, and Historian to the Church. (Carried.)
Moved by Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith, that Orson Hyde, P. P. Pratt, Orson Pratt, Wilford Woodruff, John Taylor, Geo. A. Smith, Amasa Lyman and Ezra T. Benson be sustained as the Twelve Apostles in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Each voted for separately, and unanimously.
Moved that Father John Smith be sustained, as Patriarch to the whole Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. (Carried.) ... Smith, that Joseph Young be sustained as the Senior President of all the Seventies; ...cock, 2d; Henry Herriman, 3d; Zerah Pulsipher, 4th; A. P. Rockwood, 5th; Benjamin L. Clapp, 6th; Jedediah M. Grant, 7th. Each voted for separately, and unanimously.
Moved that we sustain N. K. Whitney as Bishop of the whole Church. (Carried.)
Moved that we sustain Orson Hyde, as the President of Pottawatamie county, and Geo. A. Smith and Ezra T. Benson as his Counsellors, and are satisfied with their course. (Carried.)
Moved that we sustain James Allred as the President of the High Council; George W. Harris, Noah S. Bulkley, Lyman Stoddard, George Coulson, William Snow, Ira Oviatt, Aaron Johnson, Henry W. Miller, Jerome M. Benson, Andrew H. Perkins, Silas Richards, and Evan M. Greene as Recorder, Historian and Clerk of the High Council, each voted for separately and unanimously.
Moved that Father Draper be acknowledged as the Patriarch in Pottawatamie county. (Carried.)
Pres’t. O. Hyde
said, I cannot withhold an expression of my feelings, and hearty thanks for your good will expressed towards us in your unwavering determination to sustain us in our office and calling, and also our brethren in the Valley of the Great Salt Lake. We should be sorry to betray the confidence which you, this day, have reposed in us. We are glad that there have been no objections raised against us: yet if objections do exist against us, or any one of us in our official proceedings, or in our private capacity, this is the place and now is the time when they can be lawfully and honorably made to our face in the midst of the people. (After a short pause, and no objections made, Mr. H. continued and said,) as there are no objections made, I trust that there will be none made in any bye-corner after this, unless we shall do something hereafter that will merit censure. No whining or complaining about us will be heard.
I wish now to call your attention to the course taken by a certain branch of the church. It is true that I am a little warm or heated at times, but am fortunately yoked with two counselors who are cool, deliberate and calculating. These serve to modify and temper my feelings to a degree of moderation that is tolerable. We have looked for members from this branch to meet with us in council, but they have seldom, if ever done so, cheerfully. One would naturally conclude that they were all law students. They are very technical, and metaphysical, and claim only to have apostatized, from dishonesty and crime. This reformation may be a redeeming quality—a saving clause; for they may have learned by experience that the way of the transgressor is hard in those things from which they now claim to have apostatized. If they have indeed apostatized from such faith and conduct, they have done that which I should charitably hope no other branch in Pottawatamie county could do for the reason that none other may be guilty. I mean the Silver Creek branch where Father Cutler has the Presidency. We look for men clothed with high and responsible priesthood, to meet with us in council and mingle their spirits and feelings with ours; and if they are one with us, they will be very apt to do it—particularly when circumstances will allow.
In the first place: In view of that people who are the descendants of Abraham, and the great desire of the Saints that the promises made to their father and reserved to be fulfilled upon their heads in the last days, should be speedily consummated. Some men have suffered enthusiasm to take the helm of their minds, and they have caused as much trouble and awakened a prejudice that has been a strong barrier against our success and prosperity in this matter. Great wheels move slowly, and all these things must move along in the Providence of God, if they move aright. No enthusiastic flirts—no vain or wild chimera—no mysterious humbug is going to accomplish the great purposes of our Heavenly Father in these days. If a man has received a plain, straight forward and honorable mission, and shall afterwards attempt to wrap it up in mystery, or present it in dark and ambiguous sayings to excite wonder and awaken discontent, you may know that “mystery Babylon” is there, and that the destroying spirit is in the ascendant.
Our martyred prophet, in one of the last councils in which I had the honor to enjoy his company, said: “Tell the red men of the forest that they must bury the tomahawk and live in peace with the white man and among themselves also, and with all mankind. This was the teaching given to Father Cutler also by President Young. He was instructed to go and tell the Indians to bury the tomahawk, and by the permission of Government to build mills, to establish schools, and to take all legal measures to improve their condition—to teach them that Jesus Christ died for them, and that they should repent and be baptized for the remission of their sins. It is no pleasure to me to take power from a good man, but if possible, to increase it. I will come to the point. Because a mission has been given to Father Cutler and Bishop Calkins to do a certain work, they have preached up their own righteousness, neglected their mission and infused into that branch self-righteousness enough to alienate them from the body of the Church.
It is true that there was a certain occasion a disputation from that branch of the Church, and a private council waited upon them here, consisting of the Presidency of the Church in this place. They were called up here for an investigation of their doings. They made satisfactory retractions, and the doings of this Council were written in a letter addressed to the Silver Creek branch. This letter, Father Cutler advised the brethren with him to back up when they returned home. I observed them that the letter was a true statement of the case; but told them that they could have .... to take that letter and confirm the truth of its contents by their testimony to the branch, or go before the High Council, which was to be in session that day, and have an investigation there of their proceedings. I told them not to take the letter at all, unless they intended to support it all intents and purposes; for if they did, they would not only alienate that branch still the more from the church, but bring innocent blood on their own heads. They consented to take the letter upon the terms required, and took it.
But how was that letter treated by the branch, and by the men who promised to back it up? The testimony is that it was read in detached sentences—some not read at all—moved by one that it be laid under the table, by another that it be laid on the table and wink at the ignorance of the writer or of the thing. The Council we held, I wished to have private, for if the matter had been brought before the High Council and raked as they would have raked it, it would have been a much harder case for them. I tell you that the mission cannot nor shall prosper with the present spirit of that branch. Father Cutler lies a little back in the shade, behind the curtain while Bishop Calkins is his organ and mouth-piece and the “Magnus Apollo” to carry out his measures.
Why are we placed here to preside over the Church? Because the First Presidency cannot be everywhere present, and consequently cannot be here. We are placed to act in their stead. We are their representatives. If they were here and saw that that mission was being converted into something that they never contemplated, and was having an injurious effect upon the Church and its organization, would they not veto it? Everybody would say, yes! Cannot their representatives do the same? Most assuredly, or else they have no representatives. We are here under their seal and sanction, and we do not intend to dishonor them. It matters not then how great any man’s mission may be, if he is within our reach, he can be controlled by the council and authorities of the Church here, particularly if he is going out of his circle and limits; but if he keeps within the limits of his instructions, we have no wish to interfere with him.
If the Silver Creek Branch were as frank and honest as they pretend, they would say, in my opinion, that they regarded Father Cutler as the highest authority on earth—that they consider it more to their advantage, if they make us think they are one with us, so that we will not act upon their case, and thus give them a latitude to privately operate under our sanction. To our face, their words are with us; but who cannot see that their spirit is against us; nay, feel it also! And that they bolster themselves up by an affected righteousness, and try to stifle their own convictions of error by magnifying the faults of their brethren. The wicked subterfuge is resorted to, in order to beguile the unwary, that the ancients have visited them, tongues and prophecyings are dealt out so profusely that the market is gutted. We are weak mortals: but when the Holy Spirit comes upon us, and we take an action upon those who have questioned our power, our right, and our jurisdiction, in order to get a lengthened term to do wrong, they will find, sooner or later, that what we bind on earth is bound in Heaven.
Pres’t. O. Hyde, presented a letter written to E. M. Greene by Bishop Calkins, and observed, that all know that Br. Greene has been appointed Clerk of the High Council, recorder and historian of the church, and you all know his honorable course, his high standing in the Church, and his good moral character. We have confidence in Br. Greene, and he is always welcome in the Council to do the business of recording for them.
Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith called upon Robert Campbell to read the letter.
Silver Creek, Jan. 15, 1849.
Br. Greene, Sir: This is to let you know that I have received your copy of the minutes of the special Council, held at Kanesville, on the 15th December, 1848. I am much obliged to you for the favor; but would have been a little better pleased had you done justice to the principle of truth, and honesty in those minutes.
I will ask you a few questions which I wish you would take the trouble to answer to relieve my mind and feelings on those matters, viz: Did not I myself ask you into the Council at about the hour of nine or ten o’clock, P.M., to do a little writing for me, to take down some testimonies that were to be given there in my case, (not as a clerk for the Council, but to do me a favor for my own private journal,) which was to be given by W. P. McIntire and others?
Why did you not give G. W. Harris’s testimony as well as McIntire’s?
Why did you not give the motion of G. W. Harris seconded by yourself, and voted unanimously according to your agreement the next morning with me in your private room, that all things might show true on both side of the question?
Why did you not give the outline of G. A. Smiths’ talk about the leather breeches, &c.; that the spirit of that man might be as plain to the reader as my own?
Why did you say that I made “satisfactory retraction,” when the truth is I did not make any in any shape whatever: But said there might be a shadow of justification under the testimony of McIntire for the course of O. Hyde. But still the righteous way would have been to have sent to me instead of the branch?
Why did you say I agreed with O. Hyde “to burn all the letters and papers that had passed between us,” when no letter or papers has ever passed between us. Again, why did you not send those minutes under your certificate, instead of your official seal? when it is a well known fact that you were not the clerk of said Council; but was only invited in by me, to do some writing for me as an individual, and that not until the Council had more than half done its business.
Now if you will please answer these few question, I shall feel better perhaps in my mind, as I wish always to have the best of feelings when there is room for it.
Your, respectfully, &c.
To E. M. Greene
L. H. Calkins.
said, I cannot withhold an expression of my feelings, and hearty thanks for your good will expressed towards us in your unwavering determination to sustain us in our office and calling, and also our brethren in the Valley of the Great Salt Lake. We should be sorry to betray the confidence which you, this day, have reposed in us. We are glad that there have been no objections raised against us: yet if objections do exist against us, or any one of us in our official proceedings, or in our private capacity, this is the place and now is the time when they can be lawfully and honorably made to our face in the midst of the people. (After a short pause, and no objections made, Mr. H. continued and said,) as there are no objections made, I trust that there will be none made in any bye-corner after this, unless we shall do something hereafter that will merit censure. No whining or complaining about us will be heard.
I wish now to call your attention to the course taken by a certain branch of the church. It is true that I am a little warm or heated at times, but am fortunately yoked with two counselors who are cool, deliberate and calculating. These serve to modify and temper my feelings to a degree of moderation that is tolerable. We have looked for members from this branch to meet with us in council, but they have seldom, if ever done so, cheerfully. One would naturally conclude that they were all law students. They are very technical, and metaphysical, and claim only to have apostatized, from dishonesty and crime. This reformation may be a redeeming quality—a saving clause; for they may have learned by experience that the way of the transgressor is hard in those things from which they now claim to have apostatized. If they have indeed apostatized from such faith and conduct, they have done that which I should charitably hope no other branch in Pottawatamie county could do for the reason that none other may be guilty. I mean the Silver Creek branch where Father Cutler has the Presidency. We look for men clothed with high and responsible priesthood, to meet with us in council and mingle their spirits and feelings with ours; and if they are one with us, they will be very apt to do it—particularly when circumstances will allow.
In the first place: In view of that people who are the descendants of Abraham, and the great desire of the Saints that the promises made to their father and reserved to be fulfilled upon their heads in the last days, should be speedily consummated. Some men have suffered enthusiasm to take the helm of their minds, and they have caused as much trouble and awakened a prejudice that has been a strong barrier against our success and prosperity in this matter. Great wheels move slowly, and all these things must move along in the Providence of God, if they move aright. No enthusiastic flirts—no vain or wild chimera—no mysterious humbug is going to accomplish the great purposes of our Heavenly Father in these days. If a man has received a plain, straight forward and honorable mission, and shall afterwards attempt to wrap it up in mystery, or present it in dark and ambiguous sayings to excite wonder and awaken discontent, you may know that “mystery Babylon” is there, and that the destroying spirit is in the ascendant.
Our martyred prophet, in one of the last councils in which I had the honor to enjoy his company, said: “Tell the red men of the forest that they must bury the tomahawk and live in peace with the white man and among themselves also, and with all mankind. This was the teaching given to Father Cutler also by President Young. He was instructed to go and tell the Indians to bury the tomahawk, and by the permission of Government to build mills, to establish schools, and to take all legal measures to improve their condition—to teach them that Jesus Christ died for them, and that they should repent and be baptized for the remission of their sins. It is no pleasure to me to take power from a good man, but if possible, to increase it. I will come to the point. Because a mission has been given to Father Cutler and Bishop Calkins to do a certain work, they have preached up their own righteousness, neglected their mission and infused into that branch self-righteousness enough to alienate them from the body of the Church.
It is true that there was a certain occasion a disputation from that branch of the Church, and a private council waited upon them here, consisting of the Presidency of the Church in this place. They were called up here for an investigation of their doings. They made satisfactory retractions, and the doings of this Council were written in a letter addressed to the Silver Creek branch. This letter, Father Cutler advised the brethren with him to back up when they returned home. I observed them that the letter was a true statement of the case; but told them that they could have .... to take that letter and confirm the truth of its contents by their testimony to the branch, or go before the High Council, which was to be in session that day, and have an investigation there of their proceedings. I told them not to take the letter at all, unless they intended to support it all intents and purposes; for if they did, they would not only alienate that branch still the more from the church, but bring innocent blood on their own heads. They consented to take the letter upon the terms required, and took it.
But how was that letter treated by the branch, and by the men who promised to back it up? The testimony is that it was read in detached sentences—some not read at all—moved by one that it be laid under the table, by another that it be laid on the table and wink at the ignorance of the writer or of the thing. The Council we held, I wished to have private, for if the matter had been brought before the High Council and raked as they would have raked it, it would have been a much harder case for them. I tell you that the mission cannot nor shall prosper with the present spirit of that branch. Father Cutler lies a little back in the shade, behind the curtain while Bishop Calkins is his organ and mouth-piece and the “Magnus Apollo” to carry out his measures.
Why are we placed here to preside over the Church? Because the First Presidency cannot be everywhere present, and consequently cannot be here. We are placed to act in their stead. We are their representatives. If they were here and saw that that mission was being converted into something that they never contemplated, and was having an injurious effect upon the Church and its organization, would they not veto it? Everybody would say, yes! Cannot their representatives do the same? Most assuredly, or else they have no representatives. We are here under their seal and sanction, and we do not intend to dishonor them. It matters not then how great any man’s mission may be, if he is within our reach, he can be controlled by the council and authorities of the Church here, particularly if he is going out of his circle and limits; but if he keeps within the limits of his instructions, we have no wish to interfere with him.
If the Silver Creek Branch were as frank and honest as they pretend, they would say, in my opinion, that they regarded Father Cutler as the highest authority on earth—that they consider it more to their advantage, if they make us think they are one with us, so that we will not act upon their case, and thus give them a latitude to privately operate under our sanction. To our face, their words are with us; but who cannot see that their spirit is against us; nay, feel it also! And that they bolster themselves up by an affected righteousness, and try to stifle their own convictions of error by magnifying the faults of their brethren. The wicked subterfuge is resorted to, in order to beguile the unwary, that the ancients have visited them, tongues and prophecyings are dealt out so profusely that the market is gutted. We are weak mortals: but when the Holy Spirit comes upon us, and we take an action upon those who have questioned our power, our right, and our jurisdiction, in order to get a lengthened term to do wrong, they will find, sooner or later, that what we bind on earth is bound in Heaven.
Pres’t. O. Hyde, presented a letter written to E. M. Greene by Bishop Calkins, and observed, that all know that Br. Greene has been appointed Clerk of the High Council, recorder and historian of the church, and you all know his honorable course, his high standing in the Church, and his good moral character. We have confidence in Br. Greene, and he is always welcome in the Council to do the business of recording for them.
Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith called upon Robert Campbell to read the letter.
Silver Creek, Jan. 15, 1849.
Br. Greene, Sir: This is to let you know that I have received your copy of the minutes of the special Council, held at Kanesville, on the 15th December, 1848. I am much obliged to you for the favor; but would have been a little better pleased had you done justice to the principle of truth, and honesty in those minutes.
I will ask you a few questions which I wish you would take the trouble to answer to relieve my mind and feelings on those matters, viz: Did not I myself ask you into the Council at about the hour of nine or ten o’clock, P.M., to do a little writing for me, to take down some testimonies that were to be given there in my case, (not as a clerk for the Council, but to do me a favor for my own private journal,) which was to be given by W. P. McIntire and others?
Why did you not give G. W. Harris’s testimony as well as McIntire’s?
Why did you not give the motion of G. W. Harris seconded by yourself, and voted unanimously according to your agreement the next morning with me in your private room, that all things might show true on both side of the question?
Why did you not give the outline of G. A. Smiths’ talk about the leather breeches, &c.; that the spirit of that man might be as plain to the reader as my own?
Why did you say that I made “satisfactory retraction,” when the truth is I did not make any in any shape whatever: But said there might be a shadow of justification under the testimony of McIntire for the course of O. Hyde. But still the righteous way would have been to have sent to me instead of the branch?
Why did you say I agreed with O. Hyde “to burn all the letters and papers that had passed between us,” when no letter or papers has ever passed between us. Again, why did you not send those minutes under your certificate, instead of your official seal? when it is a well known fact that you were not the clerk of said Council; but was only invited in by me, to do some writing for me as an individual, and that not until the Council had more than half done its business.
Now if you will please answer these few question, I shall feel better perhaps in my mind, as I wish always to have the best of feelings when there is room for it.
Your, respectfully, &c.
To E. M. Greene
L. H. Calkins.
Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith
said, I think this was one of the most insulting letters I have ever heard. I think the leather breeches fit tighter and tighter. He believed Br. Greene done his duty according to the time and ...
Pres’t. O. Hyde, moved that Bishop Calkins be disfellowshipped from the Church until he makes satisfaction.
said, I think this was one of the most insulting letters I have ever heard. I think the leather breeches fit tighter and tighter. He believed Br. Greene done his duty according to the time and ...
Pres’t. O. Hyde, moved that Bishop Calkins be disfellowshipped from the Church until he makes satisfaction.
Pres’t. O. Hyde
explained that some who had visited that Branch caught their spirit and returned teaching that the church is separated, that some of its members are here and some in the Valley; that there is no organization here, nor in the Valley; that the church is disorganized at present. Spoke of some wanting us to hold still about their bogus press and their dark designs until they can bring all the evil they can upon this people. Said also, when I got up that letter, I proposed to Father Cutler and Bishop Calkins to back it up to the Branch. Two others came in, and the question was asked them if they would back it up; and they answered, they would sustain Father Cutler and Bishop Calkins anyhow; showing, they would back them up whether they got the sanction of the Church or not. Said he felt like putting a veto upon that mission until things are straightened out by the Church; and observed that I want to have Bishop Calkins disfellowshipped until he makes the proper apology to Br. Greene, for that letter, and let him give satisfaction to the Council. I also wish a vote of injunction to be laid upon that mission. It will test the action of Father Cutler and that branch.
explained that some who had visited that Branch caught their spirit and returned teaching that the church is separated, that some of its members are here and some in the Valley; that there is no organization here, nor in the Valley; that the church is disorganized at present. Spoke of some wanting us to hold still about their bogus press and their dark designs until they can bring all the evil they can upon this people. Said also, when I got up that letter, I proposed to Father Cutler and Bishop Calkins to back it up to the Branch. Two others came in, and the question was asked them if they would back it up; and they answered, they would sustain Father Cutler and Bishop Calkins anyhow; showing, they would back them up whether they got the sanction of the Church or not. Said he felt like putting a veto upon that mission until things are straightened out by the Church; and observed that I want to have Bishop Calkins disfellowshipped until he makes the proper apology to Br. Greene, for that letter, and let him give satisfaction to the Council. I also wish a vote of injunction to be laid upon that mission. It will test the action of Father Cutler and that branch.
Br. William Redfield
said it is with peculiar feelings that I arise to address you. I am connected with the branch there, and I am conversant with the acts of the branch all the way through. There may be things I don’t know of. I was present when that letter was read. The letter was not read sentence by sentence. It was not motioned to lay it on the table, nor any remarks made to lay it on the table,--except by Jim Long and who cares for him; neither God, man, nor the devil cares for him. The Branch acquiesced in the letter; and there has been every thing done to sustain the Authorities of the Church here and elsewhere. Father Cutler always sustained the heads of the Church. Spoke of there going to be another Council, and that Father Cutler would make a full return to the authorities here, as soon as he got back. Said also, if Bishop Calkins taught wrong things it was private, and not in public; and if he has done any thing wrong why not let him suffer for the wrong. And those who have said anything against that Branch let them prove it; for I know they are all good men.
said it is with peculiar feelings that I arise to address you. I am connected with the branch there, and I am conversant with the acts of the branch all the way through. There may be things I don’t know of. I was present when that letter was read. The letter was not read sentence by sentence. It was not motioned to lay it on the table, nor any remarks made to lay it on the table,--except by Jim Long and who cares for him; neither God, man, nor the devil cares for him. The Branch acquiesced in the letter; and there has been every thing done to sustain the Authorities of the Church here and elsewhere. Father Cutler always sustained the heads of the Church. Spoke of there going to be another Council, and that Father Cutler would make a full return to the authorities here, as soon as he got back. Said also, if Bishop Calkins taught wrong things it was private, and not in public; and if he has done any thing wrong why not let him suffer for the wrong. And those who have said anything against that Branch let them prove it; for I know they are all good men.
Br. Louis Harvey
said I am no spokesman, and rise in weakness. Said he was present when the letter was read. Thinks a part of the letter was not read, and that there was not the true spirit there. He said, when it was moved to lay it on the table, or put it under the table it was sanctioned by many there.
said I am no spokesman, and rise in weakness. Said he was present when the letter was read. Thinks a part of the letter was not read, and that there was not the true spirit there. He said, when it was moved to lay it on the table, or put it under the table it was sanctioned by many there.
Br. Wm. Redfield
said something about being at Pres’t. Hyde’s at the time it was read, and that every word was read in the Branch.
said something about being at Pres’t. Hyde’s at the time it was read, and that every word was read in the Branch.
Br. Louis Harvey
said I do not dispute but that Long made the remarks, but I tell you that others too, made remarks, and these remarks were sanctioned by many that were there.
Two other witnesses were at hand on both sides of the question, but were not called to testify.
Br. Alexander Stanley from the congregation asked for the reading of the minutes.
Pres’t. Hyde read that portion of the minutes, relative to Bishop Calkins making retraction, burning papers, &c.
Br. A. Stanley asked if retraction was called for in the Council.
Pres’t. Hyde answered, yes.
Bishop Calkins was dis-fellowshipped until he makes satisfaction to the Council for the letter he wrote to E. M. Greene. (Clear vote. No dissension.)
Br. Alexander Stanley moved that this Conference suspend Father Cutler’s Mission until an investigation is entered into, and an understanding is given before the Authorities of the Church, and it is approved of by them; and until he knows us and knows himself. (Carried unanimously.)
Tune “Russian March.”
Pres’t. Orson Hyde gave notice of a fast on the 27th of this month, and instructed the brethren to lay up something for the poor.
Motion was made and carried to adjourn one hour and a quarter.
Br. Benson dismissed the meeting.
(The report of Branches was so incomplete, owing to the bridges being swept away, that we do not deem it expedient to publish the report of the branches. There were twenty-three branches out of thirty-eight represented.)
said I do not dispute but that Long made the remarks, but I tell you that others too, made remarks, and these remarks were sanctioned by many that were there.
Two other witnesses were at hand on both sides of the question, but were not called to testify.
Br. Alexander Stanley from the congregation asked for the reading of the minutes.
Pres’t. Hyde read that portion of the minutes, relative to Bishop Calkins making retraction, burning papers, &c.
Br. A. Stanley asked if retraction was called for in the Council.
Pres’t. Hyde answered, yes.
Bishop Calkins was dis-fellowshipped until he makes satisfaction to the Council for the letter he wrote to E. M. Greene. (Clear vote. No dissension.)
Br. Alexander Stanley moved that this Conference suspend Father Cutler’s Mission until an investigation is entered into, and an understanding is given before the Authorities of the Church, and it is approved of by them; and until he knows us and knows himself. (Carried unanimously.)
Tune “Russian March.”
Pres’t. Orson Hyde gave notice of a fast on the 27th of this month, and instructed the brethren to lay up something for the poor.
Motion was made and carried to adjourn one hour and a quarter.
Br. Benson dismissed the meeting.
(The report of Branches was so incomplete, owing to the bridges being swept away, that we do not deem it expedient to publish the report of the branches. There were twenty-three branches out of thirty-eight represented.)
Sunday, 2 o’clock, P.M.
Pres’t O. Hyde called the meeting to order.
Prayer was made by Pres’t. E. T. Benson.
Pres’t O. Hyde called the meeting to order.
Prayer was made by Pres’t. E. T. Benson.
Pres’t O. Hyde
said we have been favored during this Conference with a representation from all parts of the county. Gave a lengthy and able address on the nature of the Kingdom of God and the kingdoms of this world. Spoke of not running after the gold—for the promise is, all are ours, &c., but if you pluck an apple and pick it up before it is ripe, it will set your teeth on edge, that no allurements arising from going to the gold mines should entice us. Adverted to the train, that without casting any reflections or throwing a stigma upon our California brethren who have so dearly earned their laurels, I have to say something about its disadvantages. Spoke of the looseness of the morals of men going out in companies—that it required the sternest stuff to stand against its influence, and showed its evil consequences and closed by blessing the people.
said we have been favored during this Conference with a representation from all parts of the county. Gave a lengthy and able address on the nature of the Kingdom of God and the kingdoms of this world. Spoke of not running after the gold—for the promise is, all are ours, &c., but if you pluck an apple and pick it up before it is ripe, it will set your teeth on edge, that no allurements arising from going to the gold mines should entice us. Adverted to the train, that without casting any reflections or throwing a stigma upon our California brethren who have so dearly earned their laurels, I have to say something about its disadvantages. Spoke of the looseness of the morals of men going out in companies—that it required the sternest stuff to stand against its influence, and showed its evil consequences and closed by blessing the people.
Pres’t. Geo. A. Smith
gave instructions to the Saints who are going to the mountains to leave their calves; to treat the Saints on their arrival from England with kindness and cordiality; to take them by the hand and to point them out good locations. Spoke of the necessity of the Saints being united; of their sacred covenants made in the Temple, to sacrifice their property to help each other to a place of gathering. Spoke of the extent of the work to which we are called; of the 300 vessel loads of Saints now in England that would come if they had the opportunity and wagons; that five more yoke of cattle were still wanting.
gave instructions to the Saints who are going to the mountains to leave their calves; to treat the Saints on their arrival from England with kindness and cordiality; to take them by the hand and to point them out good locations. Spoke of the necessity of the Saints being united; of their sacred covenants made in the Temple, to sacrifice their property to help each other to a place of gathering. Spoke of the extent of the work to which we are called; of the 300 vessel loads of Saints now in England that would come if they had the opportunity and wagons; that five more yoke of cattle were still wanting.
Pres’t. Joseph Young
spoke at length; expressing his satisfaction at the counsel, given to the elders not to go to California and Oregon; expatiated at large against lying, swearing, stealing, against quarreling and taking the name of the Lord in vain; said that our actions and motives were riddled out by the searching spirit of God. Exhorted the brethren to honor one another and to love one another, and repeated that Br. Benson had enjoined upon him to say Oxen. I say, Oxen.
spoke at length; expressing his satisfaction at the counsel, given to the elders not to go to California and Oregon; expatiated at large against lying, swearing, stealing, against quarreling and taking the name of the Lord in vain; said that our actions and motives were riddled out by the searching spirit of God. Exhorted the brethren to honor one another and to love one another, and repeated that Br. Benson had enjoined upon him to say Oxen. I say, Oxen.
Pres’t O. Hyde
spoke upon the utility of the Saints taking the Guardian; of the nature of the Fast, and the duties of the brethren on that occasion. Gave notice that this Conference would be adjourned to the first Saturday and Sunday in May, to meet at Benson’s Settlement. Instructed them not to sell their land before they got their crops in, and made a call for oxen.
spoke upon the utility of the Saints taking the Guardian; of the nature of the Fast, and the duties of the brethren on that occasion. Gave notice that this Conference would be adjourned to the first Saturday and Sunday in May, to meet at Benson’s Settlement. Instructed them not to sell their land before they got their crops in, and made a call for oxen.
Pres’t. Ezra T. Benson
spoke on the text, “Oxen,” and gave good instruction. Said that when men get so large, that they cannot be tried by any tribunal this side the Valley, they ought to go there. When a man has a pretense, that he will listen to counsel in the Valley, and will not hearken to counsel here, he gives the lie, &c.
spoke on the text, “Oxen,” and gave good instruction. Said that when men get so large, that they cannot be tried by any tribunal this side the Valley, they ought to go there. When a man has a pretense, that he will listen to counsel in the Valley, and will not hearken to counsel here, he gives the lie, &c.
Maj. Miller
said that he had done all in his power to prevent the Indians from stealing horses, and had told them that no other people would have suffered as much from them as the Mormons had; he had no force, but the force of argument to prevent them.
Moved that we adjourn this Conference to Bensons’ Settlement to be held on the Fifth and Sixth of May. (Carried.)
Congregation sung, “All’s Well.”
The Conference adjourned.
Orson Hyde, }
George A. Smith, } Presidents.
Ezra T. Benson. }
E. M. Greene, }
James Sloan. } Clerks.
Rob’t. Campbell, Reporter.
said that he had done all in his power to prevent the Indians from stealing horses, and had told them that no other people would have suffered as much from them as the Mormons had; he had no force, but the force of argument to prevent them.
Moved that we adjourn this Conference to Bensons’ Settlement to be held on the Fifth and Sixth of May. (Carried.)
Congregation sung, “All’s Well.”
The Conference adjourned.
Orson Hyde, }
George A. Smith, } Presidents.
Ezra T. Benson. }
E. M. Greene, }
James Sloan. } Clerks.
Rob’t. Campbell, Reporter.