This is where Joseph and Emma lived in a small log house in Harmony. Much of the translation of the Book of Mormon took place here.

This is where Joseph and Emma lived in a small log house This is where Joseph and Emma lived in a small log house in Harmony. Much of the translation of the Book of in Harmony. Much of the translation of the Book of

Mormon took place here.Mormon took place here.

The Cooper ShopThe Cooper Shop

Etching located at the Smith Farm in Etching located at the Smith Farm in PalmyraPalmyra

The Smith Frame HomeThe Smith Frame Home

Fireplace in the Smith’s Frame Fireplace in the Smith’s Frame HomeHome

The Kitchen in the Frame HomeThe Kitchen in the Frame Home

The Smith’s Log Home The Smith’s Log Home

The Smith’s log homeThe Smith’s log home

Chapter 4 – A Period of Preparation - 1823-29Chapter 4 – A Period of Preparation - 1823-29

Joseph, age 14-17 Joseph, age 14-17 = = High SchoolHigh School

Joseph, age 18-21Joseph, age 18-21 = = College College

There are 22 known appearances of Moroni to Joseph.There are 22 known appearances of Moroni to Joseph.

There are eight different accounts of the visit of Moroni There are eight different accounts of the visit of Moroni to Joseph Smith. to Joseph Smith.

Concerning Joseph Smith’s life between the time of the Concerning Joseph Smith’s life between the time of the First Vision and the appearance of the angel Moroni, Elder First Vision and the appearance of the angel Moroni, Elder Gordon B. Hinckley, then a member of the Quorum of the Gordon B. Hinckley, then a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, wrote: Twelve Apostles, wrote:

““His manner of living was not greatly different from that of His manner of living was not greatly different from that of the ordinary farm boy of his day, except that he was often the ordinary farm boy of his day, except that he was often referred to as a dreamer and was made an object of ridicule. referred to as a dreamer and was made an object of ridicule. But he continued to work on his father’s farm, to work for But he continued to work on his father’s farm, to work for others in the area, and to associate with companions of his others in the area, and to associate with companions of his own age. own age. Those acquainted with him describe him as a Those acquainted with him describe him as a strong, active boy of cheerful disposition, who enjoyed strong, active boy of cheerful disposition, who enjoyed wrestling and other sportswrestling and other sports” (” (Truth Restored Truth Restored 1947, 7).1947, 7).

A comparison of Moroni’s four visits to Joseph A comparison of Moroni’s four visits to Joseph Smith on 21-22 September 1823Smith on 21-22 September 1823::

First visit of the nightFirst visit of the night::

Called Joseph by Name.Called Joseph by Name. Introduced himself to Joseph.Introduced himself to Joseph. Told Joseph that God had a work for him to do.Told Joseph that God had a work for him to do. Told Joseph that his name would be known for good and evil among Told Joseph that his name would be known for good and evil among

all people.all people. Told Joseph about the Book of Mormon.Told Joseph about the Book of Mormon. Quoted Old and New Testament prophecies regarding the last days.Quoted Old and New Testament prophecies regarding the last days. Quoted many other passages of scripture.Quoted many other passages of scripture. Offered many scriptural explanations.Offered many scriptural explanations. Warned Joseph not to show the plates to anyone unless commanded Warned Joseph not to show the plates to anyone unless commanded

or he would be destroyed.or he would be destroyed. Joseph saw in vision the place where the plates were deposited.Joseph saw in vision the place where the plates were deposited.

The prophecy given by the angel Moroni The prophecy given by the angel Moroni was that Joseph’s name “should be had for was that Joseph’s name “should be had for good and evil among all nations.” The good and evil among all nations.” The adversary will be doing his relentless part adversary will be doing his relentless part with regard to the negative portion of that with regard to the negative portion of that prophecy. By word and deed, faithful prophecy. By word and deed, faithful Church members must see to it that the Church members must see to it that the positive portion is fulfilled (Neal A. positive portion is fulfilled (Neal A. Maxwell, Maxwell, But for a Small MomentBut for a Small Moment, 133)., 133).

Second VisitSecond Visit::

Repeated what he said during the first visit “without the Repeated what he said during the first visit “without the least variation.”least variation.”

Added that great judgments were coming upon the earth, Added that great judgments were coming upon the earth, including desolations such as famine, sword, and pestilenceincluding desolations such as famine, sword, and pestilence..

Third VisitThird Visit::

Repeated what he had said before.Repeated what he had said before. Added a caution concerning Satan’s temptation to use the Added a caution concerning Satan’s temptation to use the

gold plates to obtain wealthgold plates to obtain wealth.. Told Joseph that he must have no other motive than to Told Joseph that he must have no other motive than to

glorify God and build the kingdom of Godglorify God and build the kingdom of God..

MormonMormon 8:14-15 8:14-15This scripture states that no one (including Joseph) would be allowed to get the This scripture states that no one (including Joseph) would be allowed to get the plates:plates:

1. To “get gain.” 1. To “get gain.”

2. “If their eyes were not single to his glory.” 2. “If their eyes were not single to his glory.”

Certainly Joseph was honored to be in Moroni’s presence. Certainly Joseph was honored to be in Moroni’s presence.

Moroni would have been honored to be in Joseph’s presence as well. Moroni would have been honored to be in Joseph’s presence as well.

Remember, Joseph is the head of the dispensation of the fullness of timesRemember, Joseph is the head of the dispensation of the fullness of times! !

Fourth VisitFourth Visit::

Called Joseph by name.Called Joseph by name.

Related all that he had said the Related all that he had said the night before.night before.

Commanded him to tell his father Commanded him to tell his father of the vision and the of the vision and the commandments he had receivedcommandments he had received..

Joseph told his fatherJoseph told his father

Lucy Mack Smith’s history of this event added the Lucy Mack Smith’s history of this event added the following information: following information:

““The messenger whom he saw the previous night, The messenger whom he saw the previous night, visited him again, and the first thing he said was, visited him again, and the first thing he said was, ‘why did you not tell your father that which I ‘why did you not tell your father that which I commanded you to tell him?’ Joseph replied, ‘I was commanded you to tell him?’ Joseph replied, ‘I was afraid my father would not believe me.’ The angel afraid my father would not believe me.’ The angel rejoined, ‘He will believe every word you say to rejoined, ‘He will believe every word you say to him’” (him’” (History of Joseph Smith by His MotherHistory of Joseph Smith by His Mother, ed. , ed. Preston Nibley (1958), 79).Preston Nibley (1958), 79).

““We live in one of the greatest dispensations of all times --- a time We live in one of the greatest dispensations of all times --- a time former prophets looked forward to, prophesied of, and, I believe, former prophets looked forward to, prophesied of, and, I believe, yearned for. However, with all the heavenly blessings bestowed upon yearned for. However, with all the heavenly blessings bestowed upon us, Satan, ever so real, ever so active, and conflicting messages are us, Satan, ever so real, ever so active, and conflicting messages are continually bombarding all of us. The angel Moroni warned the young continually bombarding all of us. The angel Moroni warned the young Prophet Joseph Smith that his name would be known for good and evil Prophet Joseph Smith that his name would be known for good and evil throughout the world (Joseph Smith History 1:33), and never has the throughout the world (Joseph Smith History 1:33), and never has the fulfillment of a prophecy been more evident. The Prophet gave his life fulfillment of a prophecy been more evident. The Prophet gave his life for his testimony, and the attacks continue today against the Church and for his testimony, and the attacks continue today against the Church and even the Savior Himself. The reality of the Savior, His atoning sacrifice, even the Savior Himself. The reality of the Savior, His atoning sacrifice, and its universal application for all of us is challenged and often and its universal application for all of us is challenged and often dismissed as a myth or the baseless hope of a weak and uneducated dismissed as a myth or the baseless hope of a weak and uneducated mind. Furthermore, the reality of the Restoration of the gospel in these mind. Furthermore, the reality of the Restoration of the gospel in these latter days continues to be challenged. The continual bombardment of latter days continues to be challenged. The continual bombardment of such messages may cause confusion, doubt, and pessimism, each such messages may cause confusion, doubt, and pessimism, each attacking the fundamental truths we believe in, our faith in God, and our attacking the fundamental truths we believe in, our faith in God, and our hope in the future” (Bishop Edgley, “Faith --- The Choice is Yours,” hope in the future” (Bishop Edgley, “Faith --- The Choice is Yours,” Oct. 2010 General Conference).Oct. 2010 General Conference).

September 21September 21stst, 1823, 1823During that four year period (college) During that four year period (college) George Q. George Q. Cannon and John Taylor testified that Joseph saw all Cannon and John Taylor testified that Joseph saw all of the Nephite Prophetsof the Nephite Prophets ( (JDJD vol. 13:47; 17:374-5, vol. 13:47; 17:374-5, 21:94). (D&C 128:21)21:94). (D&C 128:21)

Joseph could not sleep that night. It was late in the Joseph could not sleep that night. It was late in the night and he was meditating and pondering about night and he was meditating and pondering about his prayers. He was confident that he would receive his prayers. He was confident that he would receive another vision.another vision.

““When Moroni appeared to the Prophet, he said that When Moroni appeared to the Prophet, he said that the the stature of his personage was a little above the stature of his personage was a little above the common size of a man during his time periodcommon size of a man during his time period” ” (Remember that the Smith men were taller than the (Remember that the Smith men were taller than the normal size).normal size).

Moroni’s robe was open so that Joseph could see his Moroni’s robe was open so that Joseph could see his chest. chest.

Cal Stevens thought that it was to teach Joseph Cal Stevens thought that it was to teach Joseph Smith about the nature of resurrected beingsSmith about the nature of resurrected beings. .

Lorenzo Snow one time said that “Lorenzo Snow one time said that “There is nothing on this There is nothing on this earth that is more beautiful to gaze upon than a Celestial, earth that is more beautiful to gaze upon than a Celestial, resurrected beingresurrected being.” .”

He should know, he saw several on many different He should know, he saw several on many different occasions.occasions.

The prophet on one occasion said that Moroni died and was The prophet on one occasion said that Moroni died and was later resurrected. later resurrected.

There is an account from There is an account from George LaubGeorge Laub in Saint George in Saint George telling that he had heard Joseph Smith say that when telling that he had heard Joseph Smith say that when Moroni was an old man, four Lamanites came upon him. Moroni was an old man, four Lamanites came upon him. They had been hunting him from one end of the country to They had been hunting him from one end of the country to the other. Moroni dispatched the first three, but was so the other. Moroni dispatched the first three, but was so weary that the fourth one killed him.weary that the fourth one killed him.

Death of MoroniDeath of Moroni

At a meeting at Spanish Fork, Utah Co., in the winter of 1896, At a meeting at Spanish Fork, Utah Co., in the winter of 1896, Brother Higginson stated in my presence that Thomas B. Marsh told Brother Higginson stated in my presence that Thomas B. Marsh told him that the Prophet Joseph Smith told him (Thomas B. Marsh, he him that the Prophet Joseph Smith told him (Thomas B. Marsh, he being then President of the Twelve), that he became very anxious to being then President of the Twelve), that he became very anxious to know something of the fate of Moroni, and in answer to prayer the know something of the fate of Moroni, and in answer to prayer the Lord gave Joseph a vision, in which appeared a wild country and on Lord gave Joseph a vision, in which appeared a wild country and on the scene was Moroni after whom were six Indians in pursuit; he the scene was Moroni after whom were six Indians in pursuit; he stopped and one of the Indians stepped forward and measured swords stopped and one of the Indians stepped forward and measured swords with him. Moroni smote him and he fell dead; another Indian with him. Moroni smote him and he fell dead; another Indian advanced and contended with him; this Indian also fell by his sword; a advanced and contended with him; this Indian also fell by his sword; a third Indian then stepped forth and met the same fate; a fourth third Indian then stepped forth and met the same fate; a fourth afterwards contended with him, but in the struggle with the fourth, afterwards contended with him, but in the struggle with the fourth, Moroni, being exhausted, was killed. Thus ended the life of Moroni Moroni, being exhausted, was killed. Thus ended the life of Moroni ((The Fate of MoroniThe Fate of Moroni, 1897, Division Archives, Charles David)., 1897, Division Archives, Charles David).

Moroni in MantiMoroni in Manti

Some members of the Church are aware that at the Some members of the Church are aware that at the dedication of the site for the temple in Manti, Utah, the dedication of the site for the temple in Manti, Utah, the following incident took place. At a conference held in following incident took place. At a conference held in Ephraim, Sanpete County, June 25Ephraim, Sanpete County, June 25thth, 1875, nearly all the , 1875, nearly all the speakers expressed their feelings to have a temple built in speakers expressed their feelings to have a temple built in Sanpete County, and gave their views as to what point and Sanpete County, and gave their views as to what point and where to build it, and to show the union that existed, Elder where to build it, and to show the union that existed, Elder Daniel H. Wells said “Manti,” George Q. Cannon, Brigham Daniel H. Wells said “Manti,” George Q. Cannon, Brigham Young, Jr., John Taylor, Orson Hyde, Erastus Snow, Young, Jr., John Taylor, Orson Hyde, Erastus Snow, Franklin D. Richards, Lorenzo Young, and A.M. Musse said Franklin D. Richards, Lorenzo Young, and A.M. Musse said “Manti stone quarry,” I have given the names in the order in “Manti stone quarry,” I have given the names in the order in which they spoke.which they spoke.

At four p.m. that day President Brigham Young said: “The At four p.m. that day President Brigham Young said: “The Temple should be built on the Manti stone quarry.” Early Temple should be built on the Manti stone quarry.” Early on the morning of April 25, 1877, President Brigham on the morning of April 25, 1877, President Brigham Young asked Brother Warren S. Snow to go with him to the Young asked Brother Warren S. Snow to go with him to the Temple hill. Brother Snow said, “We two were alone: Temple hill. Brother Snow said, “We two were alone: President Young took me to the spot where the Temple was President Young took me to the spot where the Temple was to stand; we went to the southeast corner, and President to stand; we went to the southeast corner, and President Young said: “Young said: “Here is the spot where the prophet Moroni Here is the spot where the prophet Moroni stood and dedicated this piece of land for the Temple stood and dedicated this piece of land for the Temple site, and that is the reason why the location is made site, and that is the reason why the location is made here, and we can’t move it from this spot; and if you and here, and we can’t move it from this spot; and if you and I are the only persons that come here at high noon I are the only persons that come here at high noon today, we will dedicate this groundtoday, we will dedicate this ground” (Whitney, 436, ” (Whitney, 436, Diary Diary of Charles Lowell Walkerof Charles Lowell Walker).).

That Moroni dedicated the Manti Temple site is one of the few That Moroni dedicated the Manti Temple site is one of the few statements the Brethren have made connecting a Book of Mormon statements the Brethren have made connecting a Book of Mormon figure with a specific current place and actionfigure with a specific current place and action. This aids us in . This aids us in documenting one of Moroni’s travels and priesthood assignments. documenting one of Moroni’s travels and priesthood assignments. Another reference happened when William McBride, patriarch from Another reference happened when William McBride, patriarch from the Richfield Utah Stake, spoke at a prayer meeting in St. George in the Richfield Utah Stake, spoke at a prayer meeting in St. George in January 1881. After recalling many experiences from the Nauvoo January 1881. After recalling many experiences from the Nauvoo period and quoting the Prophet Joseph Smith on many issues, period and quoting the Prophet Joseph Smith on many issues, Patriarch McBride referred to the route the old Nephites took Patriarch McBride referred to the route the old Nephites took traveling to Cumorah from the south and south-west of having to bury traveling to Cumorah from the south and south-west of having to bury their treasures as they journeyed and finally burying the records and their treasures as they journeyed and finally burying the records and precious things in the Hill Cumorah; of precious things in the Hill Cumorah; of Moroni dedicating the Moroni dedicating the Temple site of what we now call St. George, Nauvoo, Jackson Co., Temple site of what we now call St. George, Nauvoo, Jackson Co., Kirtland, and others we know not of as yetKirtland, and others we know not of as yet (Walker, 2:525-26, (Walker, 2:525-26, Diary of Charles Lowell WalkerDiary of Charles Lowell Walker).).

Celebration of the 4Celebration of the 4thth of July of July

An Address by Elder Orson Hyde, delivered in the Tabernacle, Great An Address by Elder Orson Hyde, delivered in the Tabernacle, Great Salt Lake City, July 4, 1854.Salt Lake City, July 4, 1854.

It was by the agency of that same angel of God that appeared unto It was by the agency of that same angel of God that appeared unto Joseph Smith, and revealed to him the history of the early inhabitants Joseph Smith, and revealed to him the history of the early inhabitants of this country, whose mounds, bones, and fortifications speak from of this country, whose mounds, bones, and fortifications speak from the dust in the ears of the living with the voice of undeniable truth. the dust in the ears of the living with the voice of undeniable truth. This same angel presides over the destinies of America, and feels a This same angel presides over the destinies of America, and feels a lively interest in all our doings. He was in the camp at Washington; lively interest in all our doings. He was in the camp at Washington; and, by an invisible hand, led on our fathers to conquest and victory; and, by an invisible hand, led on our fathers to conquest and victory; and all this to open and prepare the way for the Church and kingdom and all this to open and prepare the way for the Church and kingdom of God to be established on the western hemisphere, for the of God to be established on the western hemisphere, for the redemption of Israel and the salvation of the world.redemption of Israel and the salvation of the world.

This same angel was with Columbus, and gave him This same angel was with Columbus, and gave him deep impressions, by dreams and by visions, deep impressions, by dreams and by visions, respecting this New World. Trammeled by poverty respecting this New World. Trammeled by poverty and by an unpopular cause, yet is persevering and and by an unpopular cause, yet is persevering and unyielding heart would not allow an obstacle in his unyielding heart would not allow an obstacle in his way too great for him to overcome; and the angel of way too great for him to overcome; and the angel of God helped him --- was with him on the stormy God helped him --- was with him on the stormy deep, calmed the troubled elements, and guided his deep, calmed the troubled elements, and guided his frail vessel to the desired haven. Under the frail vessel to the desired haven. Under the guardianship of this same angel, or Prince of guardianship of this same angel, or Prince of America, have the United States grown, increased, America, have the United States grown, increased, and flourished, like the sturdy oak by the rivers of and flourished, like the sturdy oak by the rivers of water.water.

Had the United States been as faithful a guardian to the Had the United States been as faithful a guardian to the Latter-day Saints as the angel of God has been to them, she Latter-day Saints as the angel of God has been to them, she would never know dissolution, nor be humbled in dishonor would never know dissolution, nor be humbled in dishonor by the decrees of any foreign powers.by the decrees of any foreign powers.

I ask no earthly being to endorse this my testimony, or to I ask no earthly being to endorse this my testimony, or to adopt it as his own sentimentadopt it as his own sentiment. A little time will prove . A little time will prove whether Orson Hyde alone has declared it, or whether the whether Orson Hyde alone has declared it, or whether the heavenly powers will back up this testimony in the faces of heavenly powers will back up this testimony in the faces of all the world.all the world.

When Justice is satisfied, and the blood of martyrs atoned When Justice is satisfied, and the blood of martyrs atoned for, the guardian angel of America will return to his station, for, the guardian angel of America will return to his station, resume his charge, and restore the Constitution of our resume his charge, and restore the Constitution of our country to the respect and veneration of the people; for it country to the respect and veneration of the people; for it was given by the inspiration of our God.was given by the inspiration of our God.

What is the significance of the Bible references Moroni What is the significance of the Bible references Moroni quoted to the Prophet Joseph Smith?quoted to the Prophet Joseph Smith?

Malachi 3Malachi 3 Isaiah 11Isaiah 11 Acts 3:22-23Acts 3:22-23 Joel 2:28-32Joel 2:28-32

All of the passages Moroni quoted point to the same theme: All of the passages Moroni quoted point to the same theme:

The coming forth of the Book of Mormon would initiate a The coming forth of the Book of Mormon would initiate a progression of events that would lead to the Second progression of events that would lead to the Second ComingComing,,

The wicked will be destroyed and the righteous will reign The wicked will be destroyed and the righteous will reign on the earth with Jesus Christon the earth with Jesus Christ. .

In essence, Joseph Smith was being told that the work he In essence, Joseph Smith was being told that the work he was to do would help usher in Christ’s millennial reign and was to do would help usher in Christ’s millennial reign and that the Savior’s coming would be “soonthat the Savior’s coming would be “soon.”.”

Do we know what the “other Passages of Do we know what the “other Passages of scripture” were or what other explanations scripture” were or what other explanations Moroni gaveMoroni gave??

We gain additional insights on this matter from a letter Oliver We gain additional insights on this matter from a letter Oliver Cowdery wrote to William W. Phelps, which contained an account of Cowdery wrote to William W. Phelps, which contained an account of Moroni’s visit to Joseph Smith:Moroni’s visit to Joseph Smith:

““God has chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the God has chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; and base things of the world, and things things which are mighty; and base things of the world, and things which are despised, has God chosen; yea, and things which are not, to which are despised, has God chosen; yea, and things which are not, to bring to naught things which are, that no flesh should glory in his bring to naught things which are, that no flesh should glory in his presence” (I Corinthians 1:27-28) (presence” (I Corinthians 1:27-28) (Latter Day Saints’ Messenger and Latter Day Saints’ Messenger and AdvocateAdvocate, Feb. 1835, 79)., Feb. 1835, 79).

In his account, Oliver Cowdery cited Moroni quoting (sometimes only In his account, Oliver Cowdery cited Moroni quoting (sometimes only phrases) from Isaiah 28:21; 29:11-14; and John 10:16 (phrases) from Isaiah 28:21; 29:11-14; and John 10:16 (Messenger and Messenger and AdvocateAdvocate, 79-80)., 79-80).

Isaiah 29Isaiah 29Remember that Moroni was quoting Remember that Moroni was quoting Isaiah 29Isaiah 29 five years before it was five years before it was fulfilled. fulfilled.

Also, remember that it was not Martin Harris’s idea to take the Also, remember that it was not Martin Harris’s idea to take the characters to Charles Anthon and other experts. characters to Charles Anthon and other experts.

Joseph sent him to fulfill the prophetic statements of IsaiahJoseph sent him to fulfill the prophetic statements of Isaiah..

Isaiah 29:4, 11-14, 17-18, 24Isaiah 29:4, 11-14, 17-18, 24

And the eyes of the blind shall see out of obscurity, and out of And the eyes of the blind shall see out of obscurity, and out of darkness (D&C 1:30). darkness (D&C 1:30).

Both President Packer and President Faust are on record as saying that Both President Packer and President Faust are on record as saying that the calling of President Hinckley fulfilled that prophecy.the calling of President Hinckley fulfilled that prophecy.

Isaiah 29:11Isaiah 29:11Joseph sent Sidney Martin Harris to help build his own confidence in Joseph sent Sidney Martin Harris to help build his own confidence in translating and to fulfill Isaiah 29.translating and to fulfill Isaiah 29.

Sidney showed the copy of the characters to three men:Sidney showed the copy of the characters to three men:

Professor AnthonProfessor Anthon: : Knew Greek, not Egyptian. Six years after Knew Greek, not Egyptian. Six years after meeting Martin Harris he told Martin he meeting Martin Harris he told Martin he was being tricked.was being tricked.

Dr. MitchellDr. Mitchell: : He was a genius, many called him a He was a genius, many called him a walking dictionary, he remembered walking dictionary, he remembered everything.everything.

Luther BradishLuther Bradish: : He was an able linguist.He was an able linguist.

Alvin SmithAlvin Smith““Alvin was a faithful and serious young man, and Joseph Alvin was a faithful and serious young man, and Joseph idolized him. Joseph saw in him a guileless person who idolized him. Joseph saw in him a guileless person who lived an upright life. Alvin loved Joseph, too, and was lived an upright life. Alvin loved Joseph, too, and was greatly interested in the sacred record. As death neared he greatly interested in the sacred record. As death neared he counseled Joseph: ‘counseled Joseph: ‘I want you to be a good boy, and do I want you to be a good boy, and do everything that lies in your power to obtain the record. Be everything that lies in your power to obtain the record. Be faithful in receiving instruction, and keeping every faithful in receiving instruction, and keeping every commandment that is given youcommandment that is given you’ (Lucy Mack Smith, ’ (Lucy Mack Smith, History of Joseph SmithHistory of Joseph Smith, 87)., 87).

They all wondered if Joseph would ever be obedient They all wondered if Joseph would ever be obedient enough to get the platesenough to get the plates..

At Alvin’s funeral, Reverend Stockton while preaching the At Alvin’s funeral, Reverend Stockton while preaching the sermon said that Alvin was lost because he had never been sermon said that Alvin was lost because he had never been baptizedbaptized..

Alvin was buried in the John Swift cemetery (the old Alvin was buried in the John Swift cemetery (the old cemetery in Palmyra). cemetery in Palmyra).

A year later, rumors circulated that his body had been dug A year later, rumors circulated that his body had been dug up and mutilated. This rumor bothered Joseph Smith Sr. so up and mutilated. This rumor bothered Joseph Smith Sr. so much that he took a few men, went to the grave and dug much that he took a few men, went to the grave and dug Alvin up to see if anyone had tampered with his body. Alvin up to see if anyone had tampered with his body.

They found the body in tact and made sure that no one They found the body in tact and made sure that no one would be able to dig up the body in the future.would be able to dig up the body in the future.

In October 1825, a man by the name of Josiah Stoal hired the prophet In October 1825, a man by the name of Josiah Stoal hired the prophet Joseph Smith. Joseph Smith.

Josiah was already acquainted with the Smith family. He was a Josiah was already acquainted with the Smith family. He was a wealthy man who owned over 600 acres of land. wealthy man who owned over 600 acres of land.

Josiah had a business partner by the name of William Hale. While Josiah had a business partner by the name of William Hale. While working for Josiah, Joseph would later meet Emma. working for Josiah, Joseph would later meet Emma.

This was the period of time when Joseph received the nick-name of This was the period of time when Joseph received the nick-name of being a “being a “money-diggermoney-digger.” .”

Josiah came to Joseph on account of having heard that he possessed Josiah came to Joseph on account of having heard that he possessed certain means by which he could discern things invisible to the natural certain means by which he could discern things invisible to the natural eye.eye.

It was Joseph Smith Jr. who warned Josiah that his digging for It was Joseph Smith Jr. who warned Josiah that his digging for treasure would be in vain. Joseph was confident that there wasn’t any treasure would be in vain. Joseph was confident that there wasn’t any treasure to be found. treasure to be found.

However, However, Josiah was inflexible in his purpose and offered high wages Josiah was inflexible in his purpose and offered high wages to those who would dig for him in search of the said mineto those who would dig for him in search of the said mine. Joseph . Joseph and several others returned with him and commenced digging. and several others returned with him and commenced digging.

After laboring for the older gentleman (Josiah) about a month without After laboring for the older gentleman (Josiah) about a month without success, Joseph prevailed upon him to cease his operations, which success, Joseph prevailed upon him to cease his operations, which Josiah didJosiah did..

Josiah was so impressed with the Smith’s and their work ethic that he Josiah was so impressed with the Smith’s and their work ethic that he later listened to their message about the restored gospel and joined the later listened to their message about the restored gospel and joined the Church.Church.

Emma SmithEmma Smith

Emma was born on July 10Emma was born on July 10th, th, 1804. 1804.

She was one of nine children with six brothers and two She was one of nine children with six brothers and two sisters. sisters.

Emma was about a year and a half older than Joseph. Emma was about a year and a half older than Joseph.

She was five feet nine inches tall. She was five feet nine inches tall.

She had a beautiful form, long dark hair, brown eyes (hazel She had a beautiful form, long dark hair, brown eyes (hazel in other records), a dark complexion (olive). in other records), a dark complexion (olive).

She was meticulous and careful about how she She was meticulous and careful about how she looked. looked.

Joseph said that she had “Joseph said that she had “splendid physical splendid physical developmentdevelopment.” .”

She was a school teacher and a hard-line Methodist. She was a school teacher and a hard-line Methodist.

She had a beautiful voice and sang in the local She had a beautiful voice and sang in the local choir. choir.

A lot of men were interested in her! A lot of men were interested in her!

““Emma was born in Harmony on July 10, 1804. Emma was born in Harmony on July 10, 1804. She was reported to have been a beautiful woman, She was reported to have been a beautiful woman, above average in size, dignified in body, with above average in size, dignified in body, with ‘bewitching dark eyes’ and raven hair. She had an ‘bewitching dark eyes’ and raven hair. She had an attractive personality, intelligent and capable. For attractive personality, intelligent and capable. For one year she attended an academy for girls, where one year she attended an academy for girls, where she received training in social behavior. It was said she received training in social behavior. It was said of her that she ‘never used slang and was very of her that she ‘never used slang and was very particular about her grammar and choice of words.’ particular about her grammar and choice of words.’ She had the reputation of being a meticulous She had the reputation of being a meticulous housekeeper and an excellent cook. She, like her housekeeper and an excellent cook. She, like her mother, was a member of the Methodist Church, had mother, was a member of the Methodist Church, had a good singing voice, and sang in the village choir” a good singing voice, and sang in the village choir” (Ivan J. Barrett, (Ivan J. Barrett, Joseph Smith and the RestorationJoseph Smith and the Restoration).).

Joseph’s mother, Lucy Mack Smith, wroteJoseph’s mother, Lucy Mack Smith, wrote::

““While Joseph was in the employ of Mr. Stoal, While Joseph was in the employ of Mr. Stoal, he boarded a short time with one Isaac Hale, he boarded a short time with one Isaac Hale, and it was during this interval that Joseph and it was during this interval that Joseph became acquainted with his daughter, Miss became acquainted with his daughter, Miss Emma Hale, to whom he immediately Emma Hale, to whom he immediately commenced paying his addresses, and was commenced paying his addresses, and was subsequently married….” subsequently married….”

Joseph called my husband and myself aside Joseph called my husband and myself aside and said, “I have been very lonely ever since and said, “I have been very lonely ever since Alvin died and I have concluded to get Alvin died and I have concluded to get married. If you have no objections to my married. If you have no objections to my uniting myself in marriage with Miss Emma uniting myself in marriage with Miss Emma Hale, she would be my choice in preference to Hale, she would be my choice in preference to any other woman I have ever seen.” We were any other woman I have ever seen.” We were pleased with his choice and not only consented pleased with his choice and not only consented to his marrying her, but requested him to bring to his marrying her, but requested him to bring her home with him and live with us (her home with him and live with us (History of History of Joseph SmithJoseph Smith, 92-93)., 92-93).

Emma said, “I preferred him (Joseph) to any other man I Emma said, “I preferred him (Joseph) to any other man I knew.” knew.”

They eloped against the wishes of her parents. They eloped against the wishes of her parents.

She was the daughter of Isaac and Elizabeth Hale. She was the daughter of Isaac and Elizabeth Hale.

Her family had above average wealth for the time period.Her family had above average wealth for the time period.

Two reasons why Emma’s parents did not Two reasons why Emma’s parents did not care for Josephcare for Joseph::

1. He was a money digger 1. He was a money digger 2. His lack of education 2. His lack of education

ChastisedChastised

One time coming back from the hill, Joseph was late for One time coming back from the hill, Joseph was late for supper and his father asked him where he had been and supper and his father asked him where he had been and Joseph said that he had just been chastised. Joseph said that he had just been chastised.

Joseph Smith Sr. was outraged and wanted to know who Joseph Smith Sr. was outraged and wanted to know who had done such a thing to him. had done such a thing to him.

Joseph said “It’s alright father, it was Moroni. Joseph said “It’s alright father, it was Moroni.

““Oh” was the response of his Father.Oh” was the response of his Father.

As Joseph was correcting his history he talked about As Joseph was correcting his history he talked about the different visits from heavenly beings in 1823. the different visits from heavenly beings in 1823.

He referred to Moroni and Nephi and sometimes he He referred to Moroni and Nephi and sometimes he could not remember which one had appeared to him. could not remember which one had appeared to him.

If you or I saw an angel, we most certainly would If you or I saw an angel, we most certainly would remember who it was. remember who it was.

Joseph was in such constant communion with the Joseph was in such constant communion with the people on the other side, that he at times had trouble people on the other side, that he at times had trouble remembering which one it was that came to himremembering which one it was that came to him..

How long before he would get the How long before he would get the platesplates??

Joseph had no idea!Joseph had no idea!

We sometimes teach this wrong!We sometimes teach this wrong!

As Joseph approached Hill Cumorah, he As Joseph approached Hill Cumorah, he had thoughts about the poverty of his had thoughts about the poverty of his family and the possibility that the plates or family and the possibility that the plates or the popularity of the translation would the popularity of the translation would produce enough wealth to ‘raise him produce enough wealth to ‘raise him above a level with the common earthly above a level with the common earthly fortunes of his fellow men, and relieve his fortunes of his fellow men, and relieve his family from want’ (Oliver Cowdery, family from want’ (Oliver Cowdery, Messenger and AdvocateMessenger and Advocate, July 1835, 198). , July 1835, 198).

He saw the plates, the breastplate and the Urim and He saw the plates, the breastplate and the Urim and Thummim in the cement box. Thummim in the cement box.

Oliver Cowdery later mentioned that with a few Oliver Cowdery later mentioned that with a few more years of erosion to the Hill Cumorah a person more years of erosion to the Hill Cumorah a person would have been able to see the cement box under would have been able to see the cement box under the rockthe rock..

Joseph was shocked three times and wondered why Joseph was shocked three times and wondered why he couldn’t get the plates. he couldn’t get the plates. He was told by Moroni He was told by Moroni that it was not enough to be willing to keep the that it was not enough to be willing to keep the commandments, he must demonstrate that he could commandments, he must demonstrate that he could keep the commandmentskeep the commandments (Lucy Mack Smith, (Lucy Mack Smith, History of Joseph SmithHistory of Joseph Smith, 81)., 81).

The four Visits to Cumorah (College)The four Visits to Cumorah (College)

Visit #1Visit #1 September 21st, 1823September 21st, 1823

He saw two visionsHe saw two visions: : The “vision of the The “vision of the damned” and “the vision of heavendamned” and “the vision of heaven.” .”

Twenty years later he told his mother in Twenty years later he told his mother in Nauvoo that the vision of the damned was Nauvoo that the vision of the damned was horrible beyond words. He said he saw those horrible beyond words. He said he saw those who had been overcome by the evil one and who had been overcome by the evil one and turned over to him. turned over to him.

Joseph Knight Sr. reported that after this failure to obtain Joseph Knight Sr. reported that after this failure to obtain the Nephite record, Joseph asked the angel, “’When can I the Nephite record, Joseph asked the angel, “’When can I have it?’ The answer was the 22have it?’ The answer was the 22ndnd day of September next day of September next (year) if you bring the right person with you. Joseph (year) if you bring the right person with you. Joseph (asked), ‘Who is the right person?’ The answer was, ‘Your (asked), ‘Who is the right person?’ The answer was, ‘Your oldest brother,’” meaning Alvin (Dean C. Jessee, “oldest brother,’” meaning Alvin (Dean C. Jessee, “Joseph Joseph Knights' Recollection of Early Mormon HistoryKnights' Recollection of Early Mormon History,” BYU ,” BYU Studies 17, no. 1 (fall 1976): 31).Studies 17, no. 1 (fall 1976): 31).

Katherine Smith reports the same instruction, but she says Katherine Smith reports the same instruction, but she says the Prophet asked the angel “What shall I do?” The angel the Prophet asked the angel “What shall I do?” The angel replied, “Come here the next year at this time and bring replied, “Come here the next year at this time and bring your oldest brother with you, and you can receive the your oldest brother with you, and you can receive the records” (records” (Kansas City TimesKansas City Times, 11 April 1895)., 11 April 1895).

Visit #2 September 22, 1824Visit #2 September 22, 1824When Joseph arrived at the Hill Cumorah, Moroni was not When Joseph arrived at the Hill Cumorah, Moroni was not there. He removed the stone, took the plates out of the there. He removed the stone, took the plates out of the cement box and placed them by his side. He then took his cement box and placed them by his side. He then took his eyes off of the plates and looked back down into the cement eyes off of the plates and looked back down into the cement box. He looked back at his side for the plates and box. He looked back at his side for the plates and discovered they were gone, he couldn’t find them anywhere discovered they were gone, he couldn’t find them anywhere (heart attack!). (heart attack!).

He looked back at the depository to find that the rock had He looked back at the depository to find that the rock had been placed back over the cement box. He removed the been placed back over the cement box. He removed the rock again and looked in the cement box and there were the rock again and looked in the cement box and there were the plates. plates. He reached in to pick the plates up and was hurled He reached in to pick the plates up and was hurled violently back on to the groundviolently back on to the ground. .

What an education! What an education!

Visits three and four, September 22Visits three and four, September 22ndnd, 1825-26, 1825-26

There is no information on the 1825-26 visits. We don’t know what There is no information on the 1825-26 visits. We don’t know what happened. We do know that Joseph spent many hours with his family happened. We do know that Joseph spent many hours with his family talking about the things he had learned from Moroni and other heavenly talking about the things he had learned from Moroni and other heavenly messengers relative to the people of the Americas.messengers relative to the people of the Americas.

We do know that Joseph was told to bring the right person to the hill on We do know that Joseph was told to bring the right person to the hill on visit #4visit #4. .

Joseph Knight said that Joseph looked into the seer stone and discovered Joseph Knight said that Joseph looked into the seer stone and discovered that the right person was Emmathat the right person was Emma ( (Wilford Woodruff’s JournalWilford Woodruff’s Journal , 18, 18thth May, May, 1888).1888).

By the way, the right person is always your “spouseBy the way, the right person is always your “spouse.”.”

One evening Alvin said, “Now let’s all go to bed because Joseph is tired. One evening Alvin said, “Now let’s all go to bed because Joseph is tired. Let’s get up a little earlier tomorrow and work a little harder, then Joseph Let’s get up a little earlier tomorrow and work a little harder, then Joseph will have more time after supper to tell us about these things. will have more time after supper to tell us about these things.

““Long before sunrise on 22 September 1827, Joseph Long before sunrise on 22 September 1827, Joseph and his wife hitched Joseph Knight’s horse to Josiah and his wife hitched Joseph Knight’s horse to Josiah Stowell’s spring wagon and traveled the three miles Stowell’s spring wagon and traveled the three miles to Hill Cumorah. Leaving Emma at the base, to Hill Cumorah. Leaving Emma at the base, Joseph climbed the hill for his final interview with Joseph climbed the hill for his final interview with Moroni. Moroni.

Moroni gave him the plates, the Urim and Moroni gave him the plates, the Urim and Thummim, and the Breastplate.Thummim, and the Breastplate.

It seemed that Joseph was not to receive the plates It seemed that Joseph was not to receive the plates until he was marrieduntil he was married. .

President John Taylor saidPresident John Taylor said: :

““When Joseph Smith was raised up as a When Joseph Smith was raised up as a Prophet of God, Mormon, Moroni, Nephi and Prophet of God, Mormon, Moroni, Nephi and others of the ancient Prophets who formerly others of the ancient Prophets who formerly lived on this Continent, and Peter and John lived on this Continent, and Peter and John and others who lived on the Asiatic Continent, and others who lived on the Asiatic Continent, came to him and communicated to him certain came to him and communicated to him certain principles pertaining to the Gospel of the Son principles pertaining to the Gospel of the Son of God” (of God” (JDJD, 17:374)., 17:374).

Lucy Mack Smith wroteLucy Mack Smith wrote: :

““During our evening conversations, Joseph would During our evening conversations, Joseph would occasionally give us some of the most amusing occasionally give us some of the most amusing recitals that could be imagined. He would describe recitals that could be imagined. He would describe the ancient inhabitants of this continent, their dress, the ancient inhabitants of this continent, their dress, mode of traveling, and the animals upon which they mode of traveling, and the animals upon which they rode; their cities, their buildings, with every rode; their cities, their buildings, with every particular; their mode of warfare; and also their particular; their mode of warfare; and also their religious worship. This he would do with as much religious worship. This he would do with as much ease, seemingly, as if he had spent his whole life ease, seemingly, as if he had spent his whole life among them” (among them” (History of Joseph SmithHistory of Joseph Smith, 83)., 83).

More facts about getting the platesMore facts about getting the plates!!

Joseph Smith Jr. showed his mother the Joseph Smith Jr. showed his mother the two smooth three-cornered diamonds set two smooth three-cornered diamonds set in glass, which were set in silver bows in glass, which were set in silver bows connected to each other like old-fashioned connected to each other like old-fashioned spectacles.spectacles.

Joseph said that it seemed that Satan had Joseph said that it seemed that Satan had stirred up the hearts of those who had in stirred up the hearts of those who had in any way gotten a hint of the matter, to any way gotten a hint of the matter, to search into it and make every possible search into it and make every possible move towards preventing the work.move towards preventing the work...

Joseph kept the Urim and Thummim Joseph kept the Urim and Thummim constantly with him, by which he could in a constantly with him, by which he could in a moment tell whether the plates were in moment tell whether the plates were in dangerdanger..

When Hyrum came, Joseph requested him to When Hyrum came, Joseph requested him to get a chest that had a good lock and key, and get a chest that had a good lock and key, and to have it at their house when he got home to have it at their house when he got home later that night.later that night.

Willard Chase, a neighboring farmer, along Willard Chase, a neighboring farmer, along with other treasure seekers, sent for a sorcerer with other treasure seekers, sent for a sorcerer to come and find the place where the plates to come and find the place where the plates were hiddenwere hidden..

The actual box that the plates were locked in the The actual box that the plates were locked in the

first night Joseph received themfirst night Joseph received them..

14 inches by 16 inches14 inches by 16 inches

On September 22On September 22ndnd, 1827 Joseph hid the plates in a log and later brought them to , 1827 Joseph hid the plates in a log and later brought them to his home to be locked in this box. The pictures of the box are from the Religious his home to be locked in this box. The pictures of the box are from the Religious Education Archives at BYU.Education Archives at BYU.

Hyrum delivered the chest and lock that night.Hyrum delivered the chest and lock that night.

When Joseph first took the plates into his hands ,the angel When Joseph first took the plates into his hands ,the angel of the Lord stood by and said:of the Lord stood by and said:

““Now you have got the record in your own hands, and you Now you have got the record in your own hands, and you are but a man, therefore you will have to be watchful and are but a man, therefore you will have to be watchful and faithful to your trust, or you will be overpowered by wicked faithful to your trust, or you will be overpowered by wicked men, for they will lay every plan and scheme that is possible men, for they will lay every plan and scheme that is possible to get them away from you. And if you do not take heed to get them away from you. And if you do not take heed continually, they will succeed. continually, they will succeed.

That while they were in my hands I could keep them, and no That while they were in my hands I could keep them, and no man had power to take them away. Beware, and look well to man had power to take them away. Beware, and look well to your ways, and you shall have power to retain them until the your ways, and you shall have power to retain them until the time for them to be translated.”time for them to be translated.”

The night Joseph got the plates he fought off three different The night Joseph got the plates he fought off three different men during the three mile journey. During the scuffle with men during the three mile journey. During the scuffle with the last man he dislocated his thumb which his dad set for the last man he dislocated his thumb which his dad set for him later that evening. him later that evening.

Some records indicate that this happened after he had Some records indicate that this happened after he had received the plates and while he was working in Macedon. received the plates and while he was working in Macedon. Emma heard of the plot to get the plates and went to Emma heard of the plot to get the plates and went to Macedon and warned him (Macedon and warned him (History of Joseph SmithHistory of Joseph Smith, 108). , 108).

Joseph arrived home speechless, frightened and exhausted. Joseph arrived home speechless, frightened and exhausted.

What were the different places the plates What were the different places the plates were hidwere hid??

A hollow birch logA hollow birch log

A chest in his Father’s homeA chest in his Father’s home

Beneath the hearthstone of the family living roomBeneath the hearthstone of the family living room

A pile of flax in the cooper’s loftA pile of flax in the cooper’s loft

A barrel of beansA barrel of beans

Father Beman’s Ontario glass boxFather Beman’s Ontario glass box

Emma’s red Morocco trunkEmma’s red Morocco trunk

((History of Joseph SmithHistory of Joseph Smith, 112-13), 112-13)

Heber C. Kimball, who at this time lived just eighteen miles from the Heber C. Kimball, who at this time lived just eighteen miles from the Smiths and was yet unaware of the Restoration, later recorded: Smiths and was yet unaware of the Restoration, later recorded:

““I had retired to bed, when John P. Greene, who was living within a I had retired to bed, when John P. Greene, who was living within a hundred steps of my house, came and woke me up, calling upon me to hundred steps of my house, came and woke me up, calling upon me to come out and behold the scenery of the heavens. I called my wife come out and behold the scenery of the heavens. I called my wife Vilate and Sister Fanny Young (sister to Brigham), who was living Vilate and Sister Fanny Young (sister to Brigham), who was living with us, and we went out of doors.with us, and we went out of doors.

It was one of the most beautiful starlight nights, so clear that we could It was one of the most beautiful starlight nights, so clear that we could see to pick up a pin. We looked to the eastern horizon, and beheld a see to pick up a pin. We looked to the eastern horizon, and beheld a white smoke arise toward the heavens; as it ascended it formed itself white smoke arise toward the heavens; as it ascended it formed itself into a belt, and made a noise like the sound of a mighty wind, and into a belt, and made a noise like the sound of a mighty wind, and contained southwest, forming a regular bow dipping in the western contained southwest, forming a regular bow dipping in the western horizon. After the bow had formed, it began to widen out and grow horizon. After the bow had formed, it began to widen out and grow clear of transparent, of a bluish cast; it grew wide enough to contain clear of transparent, of a bluish cast; it grew wide enough to contain twelve men abreast.twelve men abreast.

““In this bow an army moved, commencing from the east and In this bow an army moved, commencing from the east and marching to the west; they continued marching until they reached the marching to the west; they continued marching until they reached the western horizon. They moved in platoons, and walked so close that western horizon. They moved in platoons, and walked so close that the rear ranks trod in the step of their file leaders, until the whole bow the rear ranks trod in the step of their file leaders, until the whole bow was literally crowded with soldiers. We could distinctly see the was literally crowded with soldiers. We could distinctly see the muskets, bayonets and knapsacks of the men, who wore caps and muskets, bayonets and knapsacks of the men, who wore caps and feathers like those used by the American soldiers in the last war with feathers like those used by the American soldiers in the last war with Britain; and also their officers with their swords and equipage, and the Britain; and also their officers with their swords and equipage, and the clashing and jingling of their implements of war, and could discover clashing and jingling of their implements of war, and could discover the forms and features of the men. The most profound order existed the forms and features of the men. The most profound order existed throughout the entire army; when the foremost men stepped, every throughout the entire army; when the foremost men stepped, every man stepped at the same time; I could hear the steps. When the front man stepped at the same time; I could hear the steps. When the front rank reached the western horizon a battle ensued, as we could rank reached the western horizon a battle ensued, as we could distinctly hear the report of the arms and the rush.distinctly hear the report of the arms and the rush.

““No man could judge of my feelings when I beheld that army of men No man could judge of my feelings when I beheld that army of men as plainly as ever I saw armies of men in the flesh; it seemed as as plainly as ever I saw armies of men in the flesh; it seemed as though every hair of my head was alive. This scenery we gazed upon though every hair of my head was alive. This scenery we gazed upon for hours, until it began to disappear.for hours, until it began to disappear.

““After I became acquainted with Mormonism, I learned that After I became acquainted with Mormonism, I learned that this took place the same evening that Joseph Smith received this took place the same evening that Joseph Smith received the records of the Book of Mormon from the angel Moronithe records of the Book of Mormon from the angel Moroni” ” Quoted in Orson F. Whitney, Quoted in Orson F. Whitney, Life of Heber C. KimballLife of Heber C. Kimball, , Collector’s Edition (Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1992, 15-Collector’s Edition (Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1992, 15-17).17).

Joseph Knight recorded that Joseph Smith told him that the Joseph Knight recorded that Joseph Smith told him that the plates were ten times better than he expectedplates were ten times better than he expected. . Joseph Joseph described to him the length, width and thickness of the described to him the length, width and thickness of the platesplates. . Joseph Knight mentioned that Joseph Smith seemed Joseph Knight mentioned that Joseph Smith seemed to be more impressed with the Urim and Thummim than he to be more impressed with the Urim and Thummim than he was of the plates, for he said, “I can see anything; they are was of the plates, for he said, “I can see anything; they are marvelousmarvelous” (Backman, ” (Backman, Eyewitness AccountsEyewitness Accounts, 72)., 72).

Because of Joseph’s involvement with the Josiah Stowell affair near Because of Joseph’s involvement with the Josiah Stowell affair near Harmony (in digging for buried treasure, silver mine), it appeared that Harmony (in digging for buried treasure, silver mine), it appeared that those who worked with Joseph may have felt that any of the group those who worked with Joseph may have felt that any of the group who found buried treasure (including Joseph) would share it equally who found buried treasure (including Joseph) would share it equally with the others. with the others.

Martin Harris stated: “The money-diggers claimed that they had as Martin Harris stated: “The money-diggers claimed that they had as much right to the plates as Joseph did, as they were in company much right to the plates as Joseph did, as they were in company together. They claimed that Joseph Smith had been a traitor, and had together. They claimed that Joseph Smith had been a traitor, and had appropriated to himself that which belonged to them. For this reason appropriated to himself that which belonged to them. For this reason Joseph was afraid of them, and continued to conceal the plates” Joseph was afraid of them, and continued to conceal the plates” (Porter, “(Porter, “OriginsOrigins,” 81-82).,” 81-82).

Martin Harris estimated the weight of the plates at between forty and Martin Harris estimated the weight of the plates at between forty and fifty poundsfifty pounds. .

William Smith, who was once allowed to lift the plates while they William Smith, who was once allowed to lift the plates while they were covered by a pillowcase, estimated the weight at sixty poundswere covered by a pillowcase, estimated the weight at sixty pounds (Backman, (Backman, Eyewitness AccountsEyewitness Accounts, 70). Remember, Joseph ran for , 70). Remember, Joseph ran for three miles with the plates under his arm.three miles with the plates under his arm.

Hill CumorahHill CumorahAn interesting event related in a sermon delivered by the An interesting event related in a sermon delivered by the late President Brigham Young at Farmington, Utah, 17 late President Brigham Young at Farmington, Utah, 17 June 1877June 1877::

““I believe I will take the liberty to tell you another I believe I will take the liberty to tell you another circumstance that will be as marvelous as anything can be. circumstance that will be as marvelous as anything can be. This is an incident in the life of Oliver Cowdery, but he did This is an incident in the life of Oliver Cowdery, but he did not take the liberty of telling such things in a meeting as I not take the liberty of telling such things in a meeting as I take. I tell these things to you, and I have a motive for take. I tell these things to you, and I have a motive for doing so. I want to carry; them to the ears of my brethren doing so. I want to carry; them to the ears of my brethren and sisters, and to the children also, that they may grow to and sisters, and to the children also, that they may grow to an understanding of some things that seem to be entirely an understanding of some things that seem to be entirely hidden from the human family. Oliver Cowdery went with hidden from the human family. Oliver Cowdery went with the Prophet Joseph when he deposited the plates.the Prophet Joseph when he deposited the plates.

Joseph did not translate all of the plates, there was a portion Joseph did not translate all of the plates, there was a portion of them sealed, which you can learn from the book of of them sealed, which you can learn from the book of Doctrine and Covenants. When Joseph got the plates, the Doctrine and Covenants. When Joseph got the plates, the angel instructed him to carry them back to the Hill angel instructed him to carry them back to the Hill Cumorah, which he did. Cumorah, which he did.

Oliver says that when Joseph and Oliver went there, the hill Oliver says that when Joseph and Oliver went there, the hill opened, and they walked into a cave, in which there was a opened, and they walked into a cave, in which there was a large and spacious room. He said he did not think, at the large and spacious room. He said he did not think, at the time, whether they had the light of the sun or artificial light; time, whether they had the light of the sun or artificial light; but that it was just as light as day. but that it was just as light as day.

They laid the plates on a table; it was a large table that stood They laid the plates on a table; it was a large table that stood in the room. Under this table was a pile of plates as much in the room. Under this table was a pile of plates as much as two feet high, and there were altogether in this room as two feet high, and there were altogether in this room more plates than probably many wagon loads; they were more plates than probably many wagon loads; they were piled up in the corners and along the walls. The first time piled up in the corners and along the walls. The first time they went there the sword of Laban hung upon the wall;they went there the sword of Laban hung upon the wall;

but when they went again it had been taken down and laid but when they went again it had been taken down and laid upon the table across the gold plates; it was unsheathed, and upon the table across the gold plates; it was unsheathed, and on it was written these words: on it was written these words:

‘‘This sword will never be sheathed again until the kingdoms This sword will never be sheathed again until the kingdoms of this world become the kingdom of our God and His of this world become the kingdom of our God and His ChristChrist.’ .’

I tell you this as coming not only from Oliver Cowdery, but I tell you this as coming not only from Oliver Cowdery, but others who were familiar with it, and who understood it just others who were familiar with it, and who understood it just as well as we understand coming to this meeting, enjoying as well as we understand coming to this meeting, enjoying the day, and by and by we separate and go away, forgetting the day, and by and by we separate and go away, forgetting most of what was said, but remembering some things. So it most of what was said, but remembering some things. So it is with other circumstances in life. I relate this to you, and is with other circumstances in life. I relate this to you, and I want you to understand it. I take this liberty of referring to I want you to understand it. I take this liberty of referring to those things so that they will not be forgotten and lost” (those things so that they will not be forgotten and lost” (JDJD, , 19:38).19:38).

The Family of Joseph and Emma SmithThe Family of Joseph and Emma Smith

1. 1. AlvinAlvin: A boy, born and died on 15: A boy, born and died on 15thth of of June 1828 at Harmony. June 1828 at Harmony.

2. 2. LouisaLouisa: A girl, one of the twins, lived : A girl, one of the twins, lived about three hours, born on April about three hours, born on April 30 30thth, 1831 at Kirtland, Ohio., 1831 at Kirtland, Ohio.

3. 3. ThaddeusThaddeus:: A boy, one of the twins, A boy, one of the twins, lived about three hours on April lived about three hours on April 30 30thth, 1831 at Kirtland, Ohio., 1831 at Kirtland, Ohio.

4. 4. Joseph Smith IIIJoseph Smith III::

Boy, born on the 6Boy, born on the 6thth of December, 1832 in Kirtland. of December, 1832 in Kirtland. Died December 1914 in Independence Missouri. Died December 1914 in Independence Missouri. Joseph Smith III had three wives and 17 children. Joseph Smith III had three wives and 17 children. On April 6On April 6thth, 1860 he became the Prophet of the Re-, 1860 he became the Prophet of the Re-organized Church and retained that office until organized Church and retained that office until 19141914. .

His third son Frederick with Mertha Madison His third son Frederick with Mertha Madison succeeded him as president of the Church.succeeded him as president of the Church.

5. 5. Frederick Granger WilliamsFrederick Granger Williams::

Boy, born on 20Boy, born on 20thth of June, 1836 in Kirtland Ohio. Died in 1862 at of June, 1836 in Kirtland Ohio. Died in 1862 at Nauvoo when he was 26. He was a farmer and a merchant.Nauvoo when he was 26. He was a farmer and a merchant.

6. 6. Alexander HaleAlexander Hale::

A boy, born in 1838 at Far West and died August of 1909 in Nauvoo.A boy, born in 1838 at Far West and died August of 1909 in Nauvoo.

7. 7. Don CarlosDon Carlos::

A boy, born 13A boy, born 13thth of June 1840, Nauvoo. Died 15 of June 1840, Nauvoo. Died 15thth of August 1841 at of August 1841 at the age of 14 months, also in Nauvoo.the age of 14 months, also in Nauvoo.

8. 8. A boyA boy::

Born 26Born 26thth of December 1842 in Nauvoo who did not survive his birth. of December 1842 in Nauvoo who did not survive his birth.

9. 9. David HyrumDavid Hyrum::

Born 17Born 17thth of November 1844 in Nauvoo just five months after the of November 1844 in Nauvoo just five months after the martyrdom. He died on the 29martyrdom. He died on the 29thth of August 1904 at the age of 60 at of August 1904 at the age of 60 at Elgin Illinois.Elgin Illinois.

Adopted ChildrenAdopted Children;;

10. 10. Joseph Smith MurdockJoseph Smith Murdock::

A twin, born 30A twin, born 30thth April, 1831 at Kirtland Ohio, died 29 April, 1831 at Kirtland Ohio, died 29thth of March of March 1832.1832.

11. 11. Julia MurdockJulia Murdock::

A twin, born 30A twin, born 30thth April 1831 at Kirtland Ohio, died in 1880 from April 1831 at Kirtland Ohio, died in 1880 from breast cancer near Nauvoo.breast cancer near Nauvoo.

The Breastplate, Lucy Harris’s Dream, &Trickery (1827-1828)

Lucy said that Joseph asked her to come downstairs to see the breastplate. It was wrapped in a thin muslin handkerchief, so thin that she could see the glistening metal and ascertain its proportions without any difficulty.

It was concave on one side and convex on the other, and extended from the neck downwards as far as the center of the stomach of a man of extraordinary size. It had four straps of the same material for the purpose of fastening it to the breast, two of which ran back to go over the shoulders, and the other two were designed to fasten to the hips. They were just the width of two of her fingers for she measured them, and they had holes in the end of them to be convenient in fastening. Lucy said the whole plate was worth at least 500 dollars. After Lucy examined it, Joseph put it in the chest with the Urim and Thummim.

Shortly after the circumstance, Joseph came to the Shortly after the circumstance, Joseph came to the house in great haste and inquired if there had been a house in great haste and inquired if there had been a company of men there. Lucy said no, and Joseph said company of men there. Lucy said no, and Joseph said they would be there by night, which came to pass.they would be there by night, which came to pass.

It was later learned that the cause of mobs coming to It was later learned that the cause of mobs coming to steal the plates was the result of steal the plates was the result of a young womana young woman who who was a sister to Willard Chase. She supposedly had was a sister to Willard Chase. She supposedly had a a green glass through which she could see many green glass through which she could see many wonderful things, including the exact place where the wonderful things, including the exact place where the gold bible was hiddengold bible was hidden. .

Lucy Harris’s dream actually took place after Lucy Lucy Harris’s dream actually took place after Lucy Mack Smith had told her of the plates and Joseph Mack Smith had told her of the plates and Joseph Smith needing money and help to translate them. Smith needing money and help to translate them. Lucy Smith went to her first before approaching Lucy Smith went to her first before approaching Martin with Joseph’s permission because she did Martin with Joseph’s permission because she did not want to go behind Lucy Harris’s back. A few not want to go behind Lucy Harris’s back. A few days later Lucy Harris visited with Joseph Smith days later Lucy Harris visited with Joseph Smith and asked to see the plates and that she would be and asked to see the plates and that she would be willing to help with money contributions. Joseph willing to help with money contributions. Joseph told her that she could not see them and he was not told her that she could not see them and he was not permitted to show them to anyone except those permitted to show them to anyone except those whom the Lord told him he could.whom the Lord told him he could.

Lucy Harris actually spent the night at the Smith Lucy Harris actually spent the night at the Smith house and the next morning house and the next morning shared the following shared the following dreamdream: :

She said that a personage had appeared to her the She said that a personage had appeared to her the night before and told her that insomuch as she had night before and told her that insomuch as she had disputed the servant of the Lord, that his word was disputed the servant of the Lord, that his word was not to be believed, and asked many improper not to be believed, and asked many improper questions, that she had done that which was not questions, that she had done that which was not right in the sight of God. Then he said, “Behold, right in the sight of God. Then he said, “Behold, here are the plates, look upon them and believe.”here are the plates, look upon them and believe.”

Lucy Harris thought that she was superior to Martin Harris Lucy Harris thought that she was superior to Martin Harris and Joseph Smithand Joseph Smith. .

She coined the name “She coined the name “the Grand Imposterthe Grand Imposter” for Joseph ” for Joseph Smith. Smith.

A young man by the name of Dikes had been paying A young man by the name of Dikes had been paying attention to Lucy’s daughter, also named Lucy. Dike was attention to Lucy’s daughter, also named Lucy. Dike was very fond of Lucy and Lucy Harris used this to her very fond of Lucy and Lucy Harris used this to her advantage. She promised Dike that he could marry her advantage. She promised Dike that he could marry her daughter if he would scheme and get a copy of the Egyptian daughter if he would scheme and get a copy of the Egyptian characters out of her husbands possession (the characters he characters out of her husbands possession (the characters he took to New York City). Mr. Dikes did and Lucy Harris took to New York City). Mr. Dikes did and Lucy Harris received a copy of the characters. received a copy of the characters.

Lucy Harris often showed the copy of the Lucy Harris often showed the copy of the Egyptian characters and informed others Egyptian characters and informed others that Joseph Smith was not the only one in that Joseph Smith was not the only one in possession of this great curiosity. possession of this great curiosity.

She told others that Joseph Smith had She told others that Joseph Smith had deceived her husband with his specious deceived her husband with his specious (deceptively attractive) pretensions and (deceptively attractive) pretensions and was exerting all his powers in order to was exerting all his powers in order to induce Martin.induce Martin.