 |
|
Zion's Camp: Missouri (June 21–27, 1834)
|
| Shaken by the hailstorm, Ray County emissaries are won over by Joseph's assurances §. Fishing River revelation postpones redemption of Zion, disillusioning some §. Liberty encampment §. Cholera §. Joseph and Hyrum sick §. Camp members to spread out §. |
|
| |
Manuscript History of the Church
MH-A
Manuscript History of the Church (December 1805-August 30, 1834), 553 pages numbered from the "back" of Joseph's "large journal" (A-1), written June 11, 1839-Aug. 24, 1843. Selected Collections 1:1, Volume 1 // “Joseph Smith History, 1839” (first 93 pages), Early Mormon Documents 1:56-148; “History, 1839” (first 240 pages), Papers of Joseph Smith 1:265-386. Original, Church Archives, CR 100 102, Volume 1.
, 497–
Willard Richards scribe
[Summer] 1843 |
|
Manuscript History Addendum
MH-A
Manuscript History of the Church (December 1805-August 30, 1834), 553 pages numbered from the "back" of Joseph's "large journal" (A-1), written June 11, 1839-Aug. 24, 1843. Selected Collections 1:1, Volume 1 // “Joseph Smith History, 1839” (first 93 pages), Early Mormon Documents 1:56-148; “History, 1839” (first 240 pages), Papers of Joseph Smith 1:265-386. Original, Church Archives, CR 100 102, Volume 1.
, Addendum
Thomas Bullock |
|
"Extract from … Heber C. Kimball"
Heber's Zion's Camp
TS
Times and Seasons
6:803–805, 838—840,. 866–867
February 15, March 1, April 1, and April 15, 1845 |
|
George A. Smith Autobiography
George A.
History of George A. Smith by Himself. Selected Collections 1:32, box 1, fd. 1 .
, 29–31
1857
Edits by Thomas Bullock
except chapter heading |
| |
Wilford Woodruff's Journal
WWJ
Wilford Woodruff's Journal, 9 vols., compiled by Scott G. Kenney (Midvale: Signature Books, 1981-1984).
1:13
January 1835
|
|
Moses Martin Journal (B)
Martin (B)
Moses Martin Journal (May 26-beyond Zion's Camp, 1834), Church Archives, MS 1986.
, 10–12
1834
|
|
"History of Amasa Lyman"
MS
Millennial Star
2:502
August 12, 1865 |
|
[Shaded text also occurs elsewhere on this page.] |
| |
Joseph B. Noble Reminiscence
J. Noble
Joseph Bates Noble, Reminiscence (1834). Church Archives, MS 1031
|
| Reuben McBride
McBride
Reuben McBride, Reminiscence (1853). Church Archives, MS 3171.
1853
| |
Hiram Winters
JI
Juvenile Instructor
18: 86.
March 15, 1883 |
|
|
|
| June 21, 1834 |
| ¶ |
[
WWJ
Wilford Woodruff's Journal, 9 vols., compiled by Scott G. Kenney (Midvale: Signature Books, 1981-1984).
, 11] After remaining stationary for several days the leading men of Clay County and some principle Men of other Counties called at our camp to enquire into our motives. |
|
|
|
|
| |
[
MH-A
Manuscript History of the Church (December 1805-August 30, 1834), 553 pages numbered from the "back" of Joseph's "large journal" (A-1), written June 11, 1839-Aug. 24, 1843. Selected Collections 1:1, Volume 1 // “Joseph Smith History, 1839” (first 93 pages), Early Mormon Documents 1:56-148; “History, 1839” (first 240 pages), Papers of Joseph Smith 1:265-386. Original, Church Archives, CR 100 102, Volume 1.
, 497] while in this situation. on Saturday the 21st. Colonel [Searcy] <Searcy> <Sconce> with two other leading men from Ray county, came to see us, desiring to know what our intentions were: |
¶ |
[
Heber's Extracts
"Extracts from the Journal of Elder Heber C. Kimball's Journal," Times and Seasons 6, nos. 1-3, 5, 7 (January 15-February 15, 1845; March 15, 1845; April 15, 1845), 771-773, 787-790, 803-805, 838-40, 866-869.
, 804] On the 21st, Colonel
Searcy and two other leading men from Ray county, came to see us, desiring
to know what our intentions were, |
¶ |
[
George A.
History of George A. Smith by Himself. Selected Collections 1:32, box 1, fd. 1 .
, 29] The following day Colonel Sconce with 2 other leading men from Ray Co: visited the Camp <and Joseph made himself known for the first time on our journey> |
| |
for, said he, "I see that there is an Almighty power that protects this people, for I started from Richmond. Ray county, with a company of armed men. having a fixed determination to destroy you. but was kept back by the storm, and was not able to reach you." |
|
for said he, "I see that there is
an Almighty power that protects this people, for I started from Richmond,
Ray county, with a company of armed men having a fixed determination to
destroy you, but was kept back by the storm and was not able to reach you." |
| |
When he entered our camp he was seized with such a trembling that he was ob[l]iged to sit down to compose himself; and when he had made known his <the> object of their visit: |
|
When he came into the
camp he was seized with such a trembling that he was obliged to sit down
in order to compose himself. |
|
They seemed very much agitated— |
| ¶ |
I arose, and addressing them. gave a relation of the sufferings of the Saints in Jackson County, and also of our persecutions generally, and what we had suffered by our enemies for our religion:— and that we had come one thousand miles to assist our brethren, to bring them clothing, &c. and to reinstate them upon their own lands: and that we had no intention to molest or injure any people, but only to administer to the wants of our afflicted friends; and that the evil reports circulated about us were false, and got up by our enemies [498] to procure our destruction. |
|
When he desired to know what our intentions were, Brother Joseph arose and began to speak and the power of God rested upon him. He gave a relation of the sufferings of our people in Jackson county, and also of all our persecutions and what we had suffered by our enemies for our religion; and that we had come one thousand miles to assist our brethren, to bring them clothing, and to reinstate them upon their own lands; that we had no intentions to molest or injure any people, but only to administer to the wants of our afflicted brethren; and that the evil reports, which were circulated about us were false, and were circulated by our enemies to get us destroyed. |
| |
When I had closed a lengthy speech, the spirit of which melted them into compassion, the arose and offered me their hands. and said they would use their influence to allay the excitement which every where prevailed against us, and they wept when they heard of our afflictions and persecutions, and that our intentions were good. |
|
After he had got through and had spoke quite lengthy, the power of which melted them into compassion, they arose and offered him their hands, |
|
Joseph had a long discussion with them which resulted in making them our friends. |
| |
|
|
and said they would use their influence to allay the excitement which everywhere prevailed against us. They accordingly went forth and rode day and night to pacify the people; and they wept because they saw we were a poor afflicted people, and our intentions were pure. |
| |
[
WWJ
Wilford Woodruff's Journal, 9 vols., compiled by Scott G. Kenney (Midvale: Signature Books, 1981-1984).
, 11] And after a fair investigation of the Subject they manifested to us that they were satisfied that we had no evil designs or intentions in our movements or procedings. |
|
|
| ¶ |
Accordingly they went forth and rode among the people, and made unwearied Exertions to allay the Excitement. |
|
|
| |
<Bro. Ezra Thayer and Joseph Hancock are sick with the Cholera, Thos. Hayes was taken today (see 502> |
|
[
George A.
History of George A. Smith by Himself. Selected Collections 1:32, box 1, fd. 1 .
, 29] Ezra Thayer <& Thomas Hayes> was attacked with Cholera—I was satisfied it was the <asiatic> Cholera <See Back1> |
| |
|
|
[Back 1] as soon as I saw him cramp, altho I had never seen the Cholera before I was engaged herding Joseph's riding horse part of the day alone on the prairie [sic]. |
| |
|
|
Two suspicious looking men came up & admired the horse |
| |
|
|
I soon discovered pistols concealed under their coats upon which together with their suspicious inquiries I drew one of my a horse pistol from my belt & told them to leave me immedly to ride off & not look back [sic]. |
| |
|
|
when on said to the other "this damned Mormon won't be imposed on" & took me a obeyed my word |
| |
|
|
I saw Thomas Hayes also attacked with Cholera, he fell down like a Beef knocked down with an axe & had to be carried into the Tent.— |
| |
|
|
The 22nd the |
|
|
| ¶ |
The brethren in Clay county wrote the committee of the Jackson <mob> the same day, [See ¶ Negotiations.] |
|
|
|
|
|
| June 22, 1834 |
| |
[
Martin (B)
Moses Martin Journal (May 26-beyond Zion's Camp, 1834), Church Archives, MS 1986.
, 10] on thrsday [sic, Sunday] |
¶ |
<Sunday> June 22 <Brother Lyman Smith received a wound from the accidental discharge of a Horse Pistol from which he recovered in about three days> |
|
[
Heber's Extracts
"Extracts from the Journal of Elder Heber C. Kimball's Journal," Times and Seasons 6, nos. 1-3, 5, 7 (January 15-February 15, 1845; March 15, 1845; April 15, 1845), 771-773, 787-790, 803-805, 838-40, 866-869.
, 804] The next day [June 22] |
¶ |
[
George A.
History of George A. Smith by Himself. Selected Collections 1:32, box 1, fd. 1 .
, 29] On Sunday June 22nd Brother Lyman Smith who was a second cousin of my mother received a wound in his groin, by the accidental discharge of a horse pistol from which he recovered in a few days— |
| |
the Sheriff with the heads of the County came to our camp |
¶ |
Cornelius Gillium. the sheriff of Clay county. came to the <our> Camp to hold consultations with us. I marching company into a grove near by and formed in a circle. with Gillam in the centre. |
|
the Sheriff of that county, named Gilliam, came to deliver a short address to us. We formed into companies and marched into grove a little distance from the camp and there formed ourselves into a circle, and sat down upon the ground. |
¶ |
The Sheriff of Clay Co & many influential men of the country came to see us, |
| |
Gillium commenced by saying that he had heard that Joseph <Smith> was in the camp and if so he would like to see him. I arose and replied [499] I am the man. This was the first time that I had been discovered or made known [one canceled word] any <to my> enemies since I left Kirtland. |
|
|
|
& Joseph made himself known to them—which he had not done to any but our own Camp from the time we left Kirtland |
| |
|
|
|
|
They seemed very much agitated— |
| |
Gilliam then arose
and gave us some instructions concerning the manners. customs and dispositions of the
people, their dispositions. &c. and what course we ought to pursue, to secure their favor and protection, |
|
Mr. Gilliam then arose and gave us some instructions concerning the manners and customs of the people, their dispositions, &c., and what course we should take in order to gain their favor and protection. |
| |
making certain Enquiries. to which we replied; which were afterwards published and will appear under date of publication. July 2nd. |
|
|
| |
Martin (B)
Moses Martin Journal (May 26-beyond Zion's Camp, 1834), Church Archives, MS 1986.
and pledgd thare word and oner that if we would not march into Jackson that the law Should be put into force and justus be don this ware these ware the heads of Clay C-O and Ray and the Governer on those considerations we concluded to tary a while and see and make [- -] in this C+O |
|
|
|
|
| ¶ |
This day [July 3] the “Enquirer” <published> the correspondence between the sheriff and the camp of the 22nd of June as follows: … [This is part of the
MH-A
Manuscript History of the Church (December 1805-August 30, 1834), 553 pages numbered from the "back" of Joseph's "large journal" (A-1), written June 11, 1839-Aug. 24, 1843. Selected Collections 1:1, Volume 1 // “Joseph Smith History, 1839” (first 93 pages), Early Mormon Documents 1:56-148; “History, 1839” (first 240 pages), Papers of Joseph Smith 1:265-386. Original, Church Archives, CR 100 102, Volume 1.
July 3 entry.] [Also see ¶ Negotiations.] |
|
|
| ¶ |
"Being a citizen of Clay county, and knowing that there is considerable excitement amongst the people thereof: and also knowing that different reports are arriving almost hourly: and being requested by the Hon. J. F. Ryland to meet the mormons under arms, and obtain from the leaders thereof the correctness of the various reports in circumstance: the true intent and meaning of their present movements, and their views generally regarding the difficulties existing between them and Jackson county: I did in company with other gentlemen, call upon the said leaders of the Mormons; at their camp in Clay County; and now give to the people of Clay county their written Statements, containing the substance of what passed betwe[e]n us.” (Signed) “Cornelius Gillium.” [This is part of the
MH-A
Manuscript History of the Church (December 1805-August 30, 1834), 553 pages numbered from the "back" of Joseph's "large journal" (A-1), written June 11, 1839-Aug. 24, 1843. Selected Collections 1:1, Volume 1 // “Joseph Smith History, 1839” (first 93 pages), Early Mormon Documents 1:56-148; “History, 1839” (first 240 pages), Papers of Joseph Smith 1:265-386. Original, Church Archives, CR 100 102, Volume 1.
July 3 entry.] |
|
|
| ¶ |
[
MH-A
Manuscript History of the Church (December 1805-August 30, 1834), 553 pages numbered from the "back" of Joseph's "large journal" (A-1), written June 11, 1839-Aug. 24, 1843. Selected Collections 1:1, Volume 1 // “Joseph Smith History, 1839” (first 93 pages), Early Mormon Documents 1:56-148; “History, 1839” (first 240 pages), Papers of Joseph Smith 1:265-386. Original, Church Archives, CR 100 102, Volume 1.
, 510] "Propositions, &c. of the mormons." … [This is part of the
MH-A
Manuscript History of the Church (December 1805-August 30, 1834), 553 pages numbered from the "back" of Joseph's "large journal" (A-1), written June 11, 1839-Aug. 24, 1843. Selected Collections 1:1, Volume 1 // “Joseph Smith History, 1839” (first 93 pages), Early Mormon Documents 1:56-148; “History, 1839” (first 240 pages), Papers of Joseph Smith 1:265-386. Original, Church Archives, CR 100 102, Volume 1.
July 3 entry.] [See ¶ Negotiations.] |
|
|
| |
I received the following. Revelation. given on Fishing River. Mo. June 22nd 1834. … [ D&C 105] |
|
|
| |
then on sunday the 22th O hide preached |
|
|
¶ |
[
Heber's Extracts
"Extracts from the Journal of Elder Heber C. Kimball's Journal," Times and Seasons 6, nos. 1-3, 5, 7 (January 15-February 15, 1845; March 15, 1845; April 15, 1845), 771-773, 787-790, 803-805, 838-40, 866-869.
, 804] On the Sabbath day while
we were in this place, being in want of salt, I took it upon me to go to
some of the inhabitants and get some; Brother Smalling took his rifle and
went along with me. After passing through a path enclosed by hazle bushes,
about two miles from the camp, I discovered a deer a little distance ahead
of us standing across the path; I made motions to Brother Smalling and he,
drawing up his rifle over my shoulder, which served for a rest, fired and
hit the deer just behind the shoulder, it ran a few rods and fell. We cut
a pole and fastening it on the pole, got it on our shoulders and carried
it along to the camp. When we got to the camp we dressed it and divided
it among the different companies, and had an excellent feast. |
| ¶ |
[
MH-A
Manuscript History of the Church (December 1805-August 30, 1834), 553 pages numbered from the "back" of Joseph's "large journal" (A-1), written June 11, 1839-Aug. 24, 1843. Selected Collections 1:1, Volume 1 // “Joseph Smith History, 1839” (first 93 pages), Early Mormon Documents 1:56-148; “History, 1839” (first 240 pages), Papers of Joseph Smith 1:265-386. Original, Church Archives, CR 100 102, Volume 1.
, 502–503] About this time Brothers Thayer and Hayes were attacked with the cholera, and brother Hancock was taken during the storm. sick with the Cholera, |
¶ |
Here Brother Thayre was taken sick
with the cholera, and also Brother Hayes. We left them there, and also Brother
Hancock who had been taken with the cholera during the storm. |
| |
[Braces original.]
{<Previous to crossing the Mississippi river> I <had> called the called the
camp together and told them that in consequence of [one canceled word] <the> disobedience of some
who had been <un>willing to listen to my words, but had been rebelled, |
|
Bro. Joseph called the
camp together, and told us that in consequence of the disobedience of some
who had not been willing to listen to his words, but had been rebellious, |
| |
[
J. Noble
Joseph Bates Noble, Reminiscence (1834). Church Archives, MS 1031
] Pres Joseph Smith told us plainley there was a scirge comming upon the Camp says |
|
God had decreed that sickness should come, upon the <camp, and if they did not repent and humble themselves before God> and that they should die like sheep with the rot. |
|
God had decreed that sickness should come upon us, and we should die like sheep with the rot; |
|
[
Synopsis
"Synopsis of the History of Heber Chase Kimball," Heber C. Kimball. Part of the series, "History of Brigham Young" in the 1864 Millennial Star 26: 455-456,470-472, 487-488, etc. to 710-713 (coverage to October 1839). Originally published in the Deseret News in 1858. Titled History of Heber C. Kimball (1-4) here.
the Lord had prepared a scourge for the camp, and that the destroyer should be in our midst, and many should die like sheep with the rot; |
| |
he I have prayed but nevertheless it will come. we thought it would come from our Ennimes, who were thretning us continually but just at the time when we were dismissed to make our own arangements to get back, Behold the Colerry came on us with mighty power and forteen of hour best men fell, |
|
that I was sorry but could not help it. |
|
and said he, "I am sorry, but I cannot help it." |
|
|
| |
|
|
<the scourge must come; repentance and humility may mitigate the [503] chastisement, but can not altogether avert it.> |
|
|
|
he further said, "Repentance may modify the calamity, but not altogether avert it; the members of the camp will be scourged for their wickedness." |
| |
|
|
Previous to this. while on our Journey I [503] had predicted and warned them of the danger of such chastisements. but there <were> some who would not give heed to my words.} [Braces enclosing God had decreed… to my words are original.] |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
When he spake these
things it pierced me like a dart, having a testimony that so it would be. |
| ¶ |
[
WWJ
Wilford Woodruff's Journal, 9 vols., compiled by Scott G. Kenney (Midvale: Signature Books, 1981-1984).
, 11] We remained in this situation visited daily by both friend[s?] and foes untill the High priests held a council [Minutes of June 23, 1834] |
|
|
| |
and there was a Revelation given concerning us. [D&C 105] |
|
In the afternoon of
this day, we began to receive the revelation known as the "Fishing
River revelation." |
¶ |
[
George A.
History of George A. Smith by Himself. Selected Collections 1:32, box 1, fd. 1 .
, 29] This day the Lord gave us a revelation [See Document & Covenants <Section 102> Page 294.] [Brackets original.] |
| |
By this time the excitement had in a great measure ceased and the Lord had granted us favour in the eyes of the people. |
|
|
| |
|
|
Soon after this revelation was given several of the Brethren apostatized because they were not going to have the privilege of fighting. [¶ Zion's Camp (7)] |
| |
We now again prepared ourselves to move forward. |
|
|
|
|
|
| June 23, 1834 |
| |
[
WWJ
Wilford Woodruff's Journal, 9 vols., compiled by Scott G. Kenney (Midvale: Signature Books, 1981-1984).
, 11–12] We traveled till within about two miles of Liberty. Then we again pitched our tents near by the house of Brother Burgett's. Here we remained [12] for several days. |
|
|
|
|
| ¶ |
[
WWJ
Wilford Woodruff's Journal, 9 vols., compiled by Scott G. Kenney (Midvale: Signature Books, 1981-1984).
1:12] And while here I witnessed a solemn scene. Previous to this time while on our journey there were disobedience and murmurings in the camp |
|
|
| |
[
MH-A
Manuscript History of the Church (December 1805-August 30, 1834), 553 pages numbered from the "back" of Joseph's "large journal" (A-1), written June 11, 1839-Aug. 24, 1843. Selected Collections 1:1, Volume 1 // “Joseph Smith History, 1839” (first 93 pages), Early Mormon Documents 1:56-148; “History, 1839” (first 240 pages), Papers of Joseph Smith 1:265-386. Original, Church Archives, CR 100 102, Volume 1.
, 503] And Brother Joseph prophesied That in consequence of these things there was a scourge awaited the camp. And as it was prophesied of So it was fulfilled. |
|
|
| ¶ |
[
MH-A
Manuscript History of the Church (December 1805-August 30, 1834), 553 pages numbered from the "back" of Joseph's "large journal" (A-1), written June 11, 1839-Aug. 24, 1843. Selected Collections 1:1, Volume 1 // “Joseph Smith History, 1839” (first 93 pages), Early Mormon Documents 1:56-148; “History, 1839” (first 240 pages), Papers of Joseph Smith 1:265-386. Original, Church Archives, CR 100 102, Volume 1.
, 503] on the morning of the 23d we resumed our march for Liberty, Clay county, taking a circuitous course round the heads of Fishing river to avoid the deep water. |
|
|
|
|
| |
When within five or six miles of Liberty, we were met by General Atchison and other gentlemen who desired us not to go to Liberty, as the feelings of the people were so much enraged against us. |
|
|
|
|
| |
At their solicitation we turned our course, wheeling to the left, and crossing the prairie and woodland, |
|
|
| |
[
MH-A
Manuscript History of the Church (December 1805-August 30, 1834), 553 pages numbered from the "back" of Joseph's "large journal" (A-1), written June 11, 1839-Aug. 24, 1843. Selected Collections 1:1, Volume 1 // “Joseph Smith History, 1839” (first 93 pages), Early Mormon Documents 1:56-148; “History, 1839” (first 240 pages), Papers of Joseph Smith 1:265-386. Original, Church Archives, CR 100 102, Volume 1.
, 503] During this day a council of High Priests assembled in fulfilment of the revelation given the day previous, and the following individuals were called and chosen as they were made manifest unto me by the voice of the Spirit, and Revelation, to receive their endowment. [ ¶ Minutes of June 23, 1834] |
¶ |
On Monday we held a
council as follows: … [Minutes of June 23, 1834] |
| |
The same day the elders made the following reply, as before referred to, to "S. C. Owens and others of the committee" of the Jackson Mob. … [See ¶ Negotiations.] |
|
|
|
|
|
| June 24, 1834 |
| |
[
Martin (B)
Moses Martin Journal (May 26-beyond Zion's Camp, 1834), Church Archives, MS 1986.
] then on [one word canceled] tusday the 24th |
¶ |
[
MH-A
Manuscript History of the Church (December 1805-August 30, 1834), 553 pages numbered from the "back" of Joseph's "large journal" (A-1), written June 11, 1839-Aug. 24, 1843. Selected Collections 1:1, Volume 1 // “Joseph Smith History, 1839” (first 93 pages), Early Mormon Documents 1:56-148; “History, 1839” (first 240 pages), Papers of Joseph Smith 1:265-386. Original, Church Archives, CR 100 102, Volume 1.
, 505] June 24th we resumed our march for Liberty. Clay county by a circuitous route round the heads of Fishing river to avoid the deep water. |
¶ |
[
Heber's Extracts
"Extracts from the Journal of Elder Heber C. Kimball's Journal," Times and Seasons 6, nos. 1-3, 5, 7 (January 15-February 15, 1845; March 15, 1845; April 15, 1845), 771-773, 787-790, 803-805, 838-40, 866-869.
, 838] On the morning of the 24th we started for Liberty, Clay County, where our brethren were residing, who had been driven from Jackson County, taking our course round the head of Fishing River, in consequence of high water.
|
¶ |
On the 23d <24th> we resumed our journey, taking a circuit round to cross the heads of Fishing Rivers to avoid the high water— |
| ¶ |
[¶ Amasa Lyman (h)] We remained near brother
Cooper's until the 24th, during our stay here we were visited by some gentlemen
from Clay and Ray counties, among them were General Atchison, Colonel Sconce,
and a Mr. Cameron. |
¶ |
When within five or six miles of Liberty, we were met by General Atchison and other gentlemen who desired us not to go to Liberty. because the feelings of the people were so much enraged against us. |
|
When we got within five or six miles of Liberty, General Atchison, and several other gentlemen, met us, desiring that we would not go to Liberty, as the feelings of the people of that place was much enraged against us. |
|
We were met by Genl. Atchison & other Gent. who informed us the people of Liberty were very much excited— |
| |
With them the Prophet
had an interchange of feeling and sentiment of a conciliatory character,
which the Lord blest to our good, thus adding another to the evidences already
given, that it was no part of his purpose to expose his servants to the
chances of destruction at the hands of their enemies. |
|
|
|
|
| |
It was here the Lord
signified to the Prophet, to our joy and comfort, that our offering was
accepted. |
|
|
|
|
| |
|
¶ |
At their solicitation we turned our course, wheeling to the left. and crossing the prairie and woodland, |
|
Changing our course and bearing to the left, we pursued our way across a prairie; then passing through a wood |
|
|
| |
this day we came 20 Ms hear we encamped hear |
|
came to bro <A.> Sidney Gilberts' residence, and encamped on the bank of Rush Creek, in brother Burgharts <Burkets> field. |
|
until we came to brother Sidney Gilberts, where we camped on the bottom of Rush Creek, in a field belonging to brother Burket on the 25th. |
|
we camped on Rush creek abt. 2½ miles from liberty in a field occupied by Br. Burghart <Burket>—there the Camp eventually broke up—I went with Brother Joseph that evening to Br. A. S. Gilberts, returned to the Camp after dark taking a bye way for fear of ambush [-] in the tall hazle brush—On the This day |
| |
|
|
On the 24th Messrs. Parish <and several others> was <were> taken with the cholera & several others— |
| |
|
|
Elder David W Patten & John S. Carter in attempting to administer to those afflicted were also taken <attacked> while their hands were on their heads— |
| |
[
Martin (B)
Moses Martin Journal (May 26-beyond Zion's Camp, 1834), Church Archives, MS 1986.
] from sunday 22 til wensday the 25th thare was 12 [-] men taken with a disorder [11] simerlar to the cholary but had not eny died as yat |
|
|
| |
For soon after we had camp'd by Brother Burgetts we were visited by the destroying angel and 8 or 10 of our brethren were immediately lade helpless beneath the stroke. |
¶ |
This night the cholera burst forth upon us, and about midnight it was manifest in its most terrific form. Our ears were saluted with cries, and moanings, and lamentations on every hand; |
|
[
Heber's Extracts
"Extracts from the Journal of Elder Heber C. Kimball's Journal," Times and Seasons 6, nos. 1-3, 5, 7 (January 15-February 15, 1845; March 15, 1845; April 15, 1845), 771-773, 787-790, 803-805, 838-40, 866-869.
, 838] This night the cholera came upon us, as we had been warned by the servant of God. About 12 o'clock at night we began to hear the cries of those who were seized with the cholera, and they fell before the destroyer. |
| |
[
WWJ
Wilford Woodruff's Journal, 9 vols., compiled by Scott G. Kenney (Midvale: Signature Books, 1981-1984).
1:12] I assisted in taking care of them through the day and the night following and through the night and in the morning there continued to be new attacks. |
|
|
| |
even those on guard fell to the earth with their guns in their hands, so sudden <and powerful> was the attack. of this terrible disease. |
|
Even those on guard fell with their guns in their hands to the ground, and we had to exert ourselves considerably to attend to the sick, for they fell on every hand. |
| |
|
|
|
¶ |
[
George A.
History of George A. Smith by Himself. Selected Collections 1:32, box 1, fd. 1 .
, 30] June 25th Last night many of the Brethren were violently attacked with cholera their moans were truly horific, some fall<ing> to the ground while <they were> on guard— |
| ¶ |
At the commencement I attempted to lay on hands for the recovery, but I quickly learned by painful experience. that when the great Jehovah decrees destruction upon any people, <and> makes known his determination. man must not attempt to stay his hand. The moment I attempted to rebuke the disease. that moment I was attacked, and had I not desisted, I must have saved the life of my brother by the sacrifice of my own, |
|
Joseph & Hyrum attempted to administer & rebuke the disease, but they were also seized with cramp, |
| |
for when I rebuked the disease it left him and seized me <it seized upon me like the talons of a hawk, |
|
to use Hyrum descript. “it was <seized us> like the talons of a hawk”— |
| |
|
¶ |
[ ¶Amasa Lyman (h) ] And to think, the sufferers, who
are they? the question reaches to and stirs the fountain of feeling within
us, for they are no strangers that are writhing at our feet, these are the
forms of the loved, the faithful and the brave; with them we had labored—with
them we had rejoiced together in the truth; they were endeared to us by
the tenderest ties that bind heart to heart, and soul to soul. These are
the sufferers for whom there seems to be no rest but in the grave. |
| |
|
|
The Prophet Joseph took a full share of the [-] of the entire journey, in addition to the care of providing for the Camp & presiding over it, he walked most of the time & had a full [-] of blistered, bloody & sore, feet. (See back 1) |
| |
|
|
[Back 1] which were <was> the natural result of men walking from 25 to 30 <40> miles a day in a hot season of the year but during the entire trip he never was heard to <uttered> a murmur or complaint. while almost every <most of the men> <other> man in the Camp complained to him of sore toes, blistered & bloody feet, long drives, scanty supply of provisions, poor quality of bread, bad corn dodger, [-] butter, strong honey, maggotty bacon & cheese, &c. even a dog could not bark at some men without their murmurg. at Joseph— |
| |
|
|
if they had to camp with bad water or no water at all, it would nearly cause rebellion, yet we were the Camp of Zion, & many of us were prayerless, thoughtless, careless, heedless, foolish or devilish & yet we did not know it—Joseph had to bear with us teach us & tutor us, like children— |
| |
|
|
There were some <many> however in the Camp who never murmured & who were always ready & willing to do as the Prophet <our leader> desired. |
| |
and <I said to the brethren> if I had had my work done, you would have had to tumble me into the ground without a coffin—> |
|
|
| |
and had I not desisted, I must have saved the life of my brother by the sacrifice of my own, for when I rebuked the disease it left him. and seized me. [Omitted in
HC
History of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, edited by B. H. Roberts, 7 vols. (Salt Lake City: Deseret News, 1902-1912, 1932).
1:114.] |
|
|
|
|
|
| June 25, 1834 |
| ¶ |
Early on the morning of the 25. the camp was seperated into several small bands. and dispersed among the brethren living in the vicinity, and I wrote and sent by express to "Messrs Thornton. Doniphon & Atchison." as follows … |
|
|
|
|
| ¶ |
[
MH-A
Manuscript History of the Church (December 1805-August 30, 1834), 553 pages numbered from the "back" of Joseph's "large journal" (A-1), written June 11, 1839-Aug. 24, 1843. Selected Collections 1:1, Volume 1 // “Joseph Smith History, 1839” (first 93 pages), Early Mormon Documents 1:56-148; “History, 1839” (first 240 pages), Papers of Joseph Smith 1:265-386. Original, Church Archives, CR 100 102, Volume 1.
, 506] I left Rush Creek the same day, in company with David Whitmer and two other brethren for the western part of Clay County. |
|
|
|
|
| ¶ |
While travelling. we called at a <the> house <of Mr. Moss> for a drink of water. The woman of the house shouted from the door that they "had no water for mormons, that they were afraid of the cholera." &c; <at the same time throwing out her arms, as if defending herself from <the cholera in the form of a personage> |
|
|
|
|
| ¶ |
We turned and departed, according to the commandment, and before a week had passed, the cholera entered that house, and that woman and three others <of the family> were dead. |
|
|
|
|
| ¶ |
[¶Amasa Lyman (h) ] I passed the night with
the sufferers, in the morning, the company with which I was connected was
disbanded. Ere I left, I gave a parting look, breathed a hasty prayer, and
tore myself away from the scene of death. |
|
|
|
|
| |
[¶ Hiram Winters] I was sergeant of the night-guards, with instructions to see
each guard every fifteen minutes, and speak to him in a whisper and receive
a reply. |
|
|
|
|
| |
The last night, about twelve
o'clock, in going the third round, Burr Riggs was
missing from his post. I found his body behind a log that lay about a
rod away, as stiff as the log itself. Calling to Alexander Whiteside, I
asked him to carry the body to his tent while I went for Joseph. We lifted
the body to his shoulder and it still remained perfectly straight. |
|
[In 1831, Burr would "fall like he was dead after an hour or two
he would come to then prophesy and tell what he had seen." ¶ Levi
Hancock] |
|
|
| |
I soon found Joseph and Hyrum and F.
G. Williams, who administered
to him; and it was not over fifteen minutes from the time I found him till
he was back at his post. |
|
|
|
|
|
| June 26, 1834 |
| |
[
Martin (B)
Moses Martin Journal (May 26-beyond Zion's Camp, 1834), Church Archives, MS 1986.
11] then on thursday the 26th we dispersed in companys and it fell my lot to go with lyman White |
|
[
Heber's Extracts
"Extracts from the Journal of Elder Heber C. Kimball's Journal," Times and Seasons 6, nos. 1-3, 5, 7 (January 15-February 15, 1845; March 15, 1845; April 15, 1845), 771-773, 787-790, 803-805, 838-40, 866-869.
, 838] Thus it continued till morning when the camp was separated into several small bands and were dispersed among the brethren. |
¶ |
[
George A.
History of George A. Smith by Himself. Selected Collections 1:32, box 1, fd. 1 .
, 30] Most of the Camp dispersed to different parts of the Country among the Brethren— |
| |
|
|
|
|
<Dr. Fredk. G. Williams> —My cousin Jesse J. Smith & myself went to stay with Bro Gilbert as also Dr. Fredk. G. Williams [Jesse, son of Asahel Smith Sr. and Mary Duty, was George A.'s nephew.] |
| ¶ |
June 26. From this place
I went to the residence of brother King Follet. From this until the organization
of the [503] High Council, I passed my time with the brethren who had been
expelled from Jackson county, by whom I was kindly entertained. |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
<Chapt 6> |
| |
|
|
|
|
[
George A.
History of George A. Smith by Himself. Selected Collections 1:32, box 1, fd. 1 .
, 30] June 26th This morning Brother Erastus Rudd came into the yard, said he was very thirsty; went to a cold spring of Limestone water near the house & drank plentifully—he fell down in the yard in all the spasms of asiatic cholera—we carried him into the house & began to work upon him administering warm medicines, rubbing him & do[in]g. every thing in our power for 5 hours when he seemed easier— |
| |
[
Martin (B)
Moses Martin Journal (May 26-beyond Zion's Camp, 1834), Church Archives, MS 1986.
11] thursday the 26th in the after part of the day Erastus Rudd John Carter, Seth Hichcock Eber Willcox was all called from time to eternity having left familys to lament thare loss this being on Saturday the 28th thare is [- -] that is varry sick [-] in the C+O of Clay about 2½ west of liberty [-] |
¶ |
[
Heber's Extracts
"Extracts from the Journal of Elder Heber C. Kimball's Journal," Times and Seasons 6, nos. 1-3, 5, 7 (January 15-February 15, 1845; March 15, 1845; April 15, 1845), 771-773, 787-790, 803-805, 838-40, 866-869.
, 838–839] I was left at the camp in company with three or four of my brethren in care of those who were sick. We stayed with, and prayed for them, hoping they would recover, but all hope [839] was lost, for about 6 o'clock p.m. John S. Carter expired, he being the first that died in the camp.
|
| ¶ |
[
MH-A
Manuscript History of the Church (December 1805-August 30, 1834), 553 pages numbered from the "back" of Joseph's "large journal" (A-1), written June 11, 1839-Aug. 24, 1843. Selected Collections 1:1, Volume 1 // “Joseph Smith History, 1839” (first 93 pages), Early Mormon Documents 1:56-148; “History, 1839” (first 240 pages), Papers of Joseph Smith 1:265-386. Original, Church Archives, CR 100 102, Volume 1.
, 506] When the cholera first made its appearance Elder John S. Carter was <one of> the first who went forward to rebuke it, but himself was immediately seized by it, and as before stated, was the first men who was stepped forward to rebuke it, and upon this, was instantly seized. and became the first victim in the camp. He died about six o'clock <in the> after noon; |
¶ |
When the cholera first broke out in the camp, brother John S. Carter was the first who went forward to rebuke it, but himself was immediately seized by it, and as before stated, was the first who was slain.
|
|
a messenger came from Br Burkets that Elder Jno. S. Carter was dead—I was dispatched <abt. a ½ mile> to procure his measure, I cut a hazel stick 7 ft. long— |
| ¶ |
[
WWJ
Wilford Woodruff's Journal, 9 vols., compiled by Scott G. Kenney (Midvale: Signature Books, 1981-1984).
1:12] And Brother Seth HitchCock was one of the number attacked with sickness. And he belonging to our tent it required another of our tent to take care of him in consequence of having a teem to see to. And by request of Brother Hitchcock Brother Seth Ingals remained to take care of him. |
|
and Seth Hitchcock died in about thirty minutes after. <& Erastus Rudd died about the same moment, athough a mile distant note 7 page 16> |
|
In about 30 minutes after his death, Seth Hitchcock followed him; and it appeared as though we must sink under the destroyer with them. |
|
I went to the room & found that Brother Seth Hitchcock was also dead— |
| |
|
|
[
MH-A
Manuscript History of the Church (December 1805-August 30, 1834), 553 pages numbered from the "back" of Joseph's "large journal" (A-1), written June 11, 1839-Aug. 24, 1843. Selected Collections 1:1, Volume 1 // “Joseph Smith History, 1839” (first 93 pages), Early Mormon Documents 1:56-148; “History, 1839” (first 240 pages), Papers of Joseph Smith 1:265-386. Original, Church Archives, CR 100 102, Volume 1.
, addenda, 16n7] he was buried by Jesse Smith, George A. Smith, and two or three others, and while burying him Jesse Smith was attacked with the Cholera see page 506 |
|
|
|
|
| ¶ |
I left the camp ground and traveled about 7 miles to Brother Lawrey’s house and remained with him for several days <in company with Elder Holmes who spent the summer with me at Elder L Wights>. |
|
|
|
|
| |
I soon began to hear of the deaths of my Brethren which I left sick. They all died which were first taken and numbers which were afterwards attacked. There were about 20 in the whole which died at or about that time. |
|
|
|
|
| |
Brother Seth Hitchcock and Warren Ingals were among the number. Brother Ingals had been in company with me from the time I left my brother, Azmon at Richland N. Y. |
|
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
[
George A.
History of George A. Smith by Himself. Selected Collections 1:32, box 1, fd. 1 .
, 30] & they appeared as if they had been dead a week, I <got their measure &> then returned as fast as I could to Br. Gilberts & found that Br. Rudd was also dead— |
| |
|
|
[
MH-A
Manuscript History of the Church (December 1805-August 30, 1834), 553 pages numbered from the "back" of Joseph's "large journal" (A-1), written June 11, 1839-Aug. 24, 1843. Selected Collections 1:1, Volume 1 // “Joseph Smith History, 1839” (first 93 pages), Early Mormon Documents 1:56-148; “History, 1839” (first 240 pages), Papers of Joseph Smith 1:265-386. Original, Church Archives, CR 100 102, Volume 1.
, 506] As it was impossible to obtain coffins. |
¶ |
[
Heber's Extracts
"Extracts from the Journal of Elder Heber C. Kimball's Journal," Times and Seasons 6, nos. 1-3, 5, 7 (January 15-February 15, 1845; March 15, 1845; April 15, 1845), 771-773, 787-790, 803-805, 838-40, 866-869.
, 839] We were not able to obtain boards to make them coffins,
|
|
<On seeing the decomposed state of their bodies> The idea of producing Coffins was instantly abandoned, |
| |
the brethren rolled their <the corpses> in blankets. carried trhem on a horse sled about half a mile; and buried them in the bank of a small stream. which empties into Rush Creek, all of which was accomplished by dark. |
|
but were under the necessity of rolling them up in their blankets, and burying them in that manner. So we placed them on a sled, which was drawn by a horse about half a mile, where we buried them in a little bluff by the side of a small stream that emptied into Rush Creek. This was accomplished by dark, and returned back. |
| |
When they had returned from the buryal burial. the brethren united, covenanted, and prayed hoping the disease would be staid; |
¶ |
Our hopes were that no more would die, but while we were uniting in a covenant to pray once more with uplifted hands to God, |
| |
|
|
|
|
a man <Brother> named Avery Smith & myself dug a grave, we were assisted at first by my cousin Jesse J. Smith who was taken with the Cholera & compelled to desist— |
| |
|
|
|
|
We rolled Bro Rudd in his blanket, covered him with leaves & brushes & then replaced the earth—I felt when I cleaned out the bottom of this grave as though it would be a <pleasant> resting place to be down on— |
| |
but in vain. for while thus covenanting Eber Wilcox died; |
|
we looked at our beloved brother, Elder Wilcox, and he was gasping his last. |
|
<Eber Wilcox also died this evening> |
| |
and while some were digging the grave others stood sentry with their fire arms, watching their enemies. |
|
|
| ¶ |
[
MH-A
Manuscript History of the Church (December 1805-August 30, 1834), 553 pages numbered from the "back" of Joseph's "large journal" (A-1), written June 11, 1839-Aug. 24, 1843. Selected Collections 1:1, Volume 1 // “Joseph Smith History, 1839” (first 93 pages), Early Mormon Documents 1:56-148; “History, 1839” (first 240 pages), Papers of Joseph Smith 1:265-386. Original, Church Archives, CR 100 102, Volume 1.
, 506] June 26th the elders wrote Governor Dunklin as follows … [
MH-A
Manuscript History of the Church (December 1805-August 30, 1834), 553 pages numbered from the "back" of Joseph's "large journal" (A-1), written June 11, 1839-Aug. 24, 1843. Selected Collections 1:1, Volume 1 // “Joseph Smith History, 1839” (first 93 pages), Early Mormon Documents 1:56-148; “History, 1839” (first 240 pages), Papers of Joseph Smith 1:265-386. Original, Church Archives, CR 100 102, Volume 1.
, 508] The drafting and signing of the above. |
¶ |
On the 26th, Algernon Sidney Gilbert, keeper of the Lord's Store House, signed a letter to the Governor, in connection with others, |
| |
was the last public act of that keeper of the lord's Storehouse. Algernon S. Gilbert. for he was attacked with the cholera the same day. and died in a few hours. <about the 29> according to his own words, that he "would rather die than go forth to preach the gospel to the gentiles.["] |
|
which was his last public act, for he had been called to preach, and he said he would rather die than go forth and preach the gospel to the Gentiles. The Lord took him at his word; he was attacked with the cholera and died about the 29th. |
| |
|
|
|
|
At this scene my feelings were beyond expression. Those only who witnessed it, can realize anything of the nature of our sufferings, and I felt to weep and pray to the Lord, that he would spare my life that I might behold my dear family again. I felt to covenant with my brethren, and I felt in my heart never to commit another sin while I lived. |
| |
|
|
|
|
We felt to sit and weep over our brethren, and so great was our sorrow that we could have washed them with our tears, to realize that they had travelled 1000 miles through so much fatigue to lay down their lives for our brethren; and who hath greater love than he who is willing to lay down his life for his brethren. This increased our love to them. |
| |
|
|
|
|
About 12 o'clock at night we placed him on a small sled, which we drew to the place of interment, with one hand hold of the rope, and in the other we bore our firelocks for our defense. While one or two were digging the grave, the rest stood with their arms to defend them. |
| |
|
|
|
|
[
George A.
History of George A. Smith by Himself. Selected Collections 1:32, box 1, fd. 1 .
, 30–31] Jesse’s attack was not very rapid. I tried to persuade him to bathe in Rush Creek but he declined & continued to grow worse all night, |
| |
|
|
|
|
in the morning took spells of purging & puking every half hour, I took care of Jesse all day <& night> tho’ severely afflicted with the bowel complaint, a disease wch <generally> preceeded the attacks of cholera— |
| ¶ |
The following is from the chairman of the committee of the Jackson mob to our Lawyer. |
|
|
| |
"Independence. Mo. June 26, 1834 |
|
|
| |
"Mr Amos. Rees, |
|
|
| |
"Dear Sir: Since my return from Liberty I have been busily engaged in conversing with the most influential men of our county endeavoring to find out if possible what kind of a compromise will suit with [509] with the Mormons on their part, |
|
|
| |
"The people here enmasse, I find out will do nothing like acceding to their last proposition. |
|
|
| |
"We will have a meeting if possible on monday next, at which time the proposals of the Mormons will be answered |
|
|
| |
"In the mean time I would be glad, that they, the mormons would cast an eye back of clinton. and see if that is not a country calculated for them." |
|
|
| |
"Yours. Respectfully. S. C. Owens." |
|
|
| ¶ |
[
WWJ
Wilford Woodruff's Journal, 9 vols., compiled by Scott G. Kenney (Midvale: Signature Books, 1981-1984).
, 11–12] And in the morning [of June 26] Joseph remarked that it was the duty of the Camp to brake up and disperse and take up their abode around among the brethren lest the Scourage should be more severe. |
|
|
|
|
| |
A reserve was made however for a sufficient number to tarry to take care of the sick. |
|
|
|
|
| |
Accordingly the camp dispersed. |
|
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
Zion's Camp: Ohio (May 1–16)
Zion's Camp: Indiana (May 17–24 1834)
Zion's Camp: Illinois (May 25–June 1)
Zion's Camp: Illinois (4) (June 2–4)
Zion's Camp: Missouri (June 5–15)
Zion's Camp: Missouri (June 16–20)
Zion's Camp: Missouri (June 28–July 3)
Zion's Camp
Jackson County
Home
|
|
|
|
|
|
|