Appreciate Wilford's experiences in the context of Church and American history

Timeline

Date Description
1801 - 1809
Thomas Jefferson is third President of 16 United States.
Mar 1, 1807
Wilford is born in Farmington Township (Avon) Connecticut to Beulah Thompson and Aphek Woodruff.
June 7, 1807
Wilford is baptized in the Northington Connecticut (Congregational) Church by Reverend Rufus Hawley.
June 11, 1808
Wilford's mother, Bulah Thompson Woodruff, dies at age 26 of spotted fever.
Mar 4, 1809
James Madison is inaugurated as fourth President of 17 United States.
Nov 9, 1810
Wilford's father Aphek marries Azubah Hart; only two of their six children live to adulthood.
Mar 4, 1817
James Monroe inaugurated as fifth President of 17 United States.
1820
Joseph Smith's First Vision. Joseph Smith - History 1:14 - 20
May 1, 1821
Wilford works summers, continues schooling at Farmington Academy during the winters.
May 1, 1821 - 1826
Wilford completes general education at age 14; lives with George Cowles for two years to learn miller's trade.
Sep 21, 1823
Joseph Smith's second vision: instruction about the Book of Mormon and mission of Elijah. Joseph Smith - History 1:30 - 54
Mar 4, 1825
John Quincy Adams is inaugurated as sixth President of 24 United States.
1827
Wilford begins managing mill for his Aunt Helen Wheeler.
Sep 22, 1827
Joseph Smith receives records to begin translation of the Book of Mormon. Joseph Smith - History 1:59
Mar 4, 1829
Andrew Jackson is inaugurated as seventh President of 24 United States.
May 1829 - June 1829
Aaronic and Melchizedek priesthoods are restored. Joseph Smith - History 1:68 - 72; Doctrine and Covenants 27 - 8, 12
June 1829
Joseph Smith finishes translating the Book of Mormon.
1830
Church membership reaches 200; the population of the 24 United States is 12,866,000.
Mar 26, 1830
Wilford is age 23 when Robert Mason prophesies of the restoration of the gospel and Wilford's place in it.
Apr 1830
Joseph Smith officially organizes the Church in Fayette Township, New York.
Apr 6, 1830
First copies of the Book of Mormon are available in Palmyra, New York.
May 1830
Wilford hired by Collins Axe Company to run their mill; works in Collinsville (South Canton), CT
Dec 1830
Joseph Smith explains the need for all living and dead to receive ordinances.
1831
Wilford works in Cowles mill in Farmington, Connecticut.
May 5, 1831
Wilford is baptized by immersion by George Phippen, a Baptist minister; does not join Baptist Church.
Feb 16, 1832
Joseph Smith receives revelation regarding the three degrees of glory. Doctrine and Covenants 76
Mar 8, 1832
First Presidency of the High Priesthood organized with Joseph Smith, Jesse Gause, and Sidney Rigdon.
Apr 1832
Wilford reads newspaper article about the Mormons; intrigued by similarities to New Testament church.
Apr 1832
Wilford feels inspired to go to Rhode Island, but does not follow prompting.
May 1832
Wilford and his brothers purchase a farm, sawmill, and orchard in Richland, Oswego County, NY.
Dec 1832
Joseph Smith commanded to build a temple in order to receive priesthood keys. Doctrine and Covenants 88:119 - 120
June 5, 1833
Construction of the Kirtland Temple begins.
July 23, 1833
Cornerstones laid for the Kirtland Temple.
Dec 29, 1833
Wilford hears the restored gospel for the first time from Zerah Pulsipher and Elijah Cheney.
Dec 31, 1833
Wilford is baptized and confirmed by Zerah Pulsipher; Wilford's brother Azmon also baptized.
Jan 1834
Wilford begins preaching with Harry Brown (father of future wife Sarah) and James Blakesly.
Jan 2, 1834
Richland Branch of Church organized; Azmon ordained a priest, Wilford ordained a teacher. by Zerah Pulsipher.
Apr 1, 1834
Wilford is directed by Parley P. Pratt and Harry Brown to join Zion's Camp.
Apr 11, 1834
Wilford leaves New York to join Saints in Kirtland, Ohio.
Apr 25, 1834
Wilford arrives in Kirtland, Ohio, where he meets Joseph Smith and stays at his house for the week.
May 1834 - June 1834
Wilford travels with Zion's Camp to Missouri to help protect and defend persecuted Saints there.
July 1834 - Dec 1834
Wilford works in Clay County, Missouri, making brick to build the home of Michael Arthur.
Nov 5, 1834
Wilford ordained a priest by Simeon Carter at Adam-ondi-Ahman in Clay County, Missouri.
Nov 13, 1834
Wilford licensed by Edward Partridge as a representative of the Church in order to serve a mission.
Dec 31, 1834
Wilford consecrates himself and all his earthly possessions to the Church.
Jan 13, 1835
Wilford leaves for his first mission in Arkansas, Kentucky, and Tennessee with Harry Brown.
Feb 14, 1835
The first Quorum of the Twelve Apostles is organized in Kirtland, Ohio. Doctrine and Covenants 101:23 - 24
June 28, 1835
Wilford ordained an Elder by Warren Parrish at Eagle Creek, Tennessee.
Jan 21, 1836
First washings and anointings administered; vision of celestial kingdom in Kirtland Temple. Doctrine and Covenants 137
Mar 27, 1836
Kirtland Temple is dedicated. Doctrine and Covenants 109
Apr 3, 1836
Jesus Christ appears in Kirtland Temple; Moses, Elias, Elijah confer priesthood keys. Doctrine and Covenants 110; 1:67
Apr 19, 1836
Wilford called to be a member of the Second Quorum of the Seventy at age 29.
Apr 22, 1836
Wilford stays in Samuel Smith's home (father of future wife Emma Smith).
May 31, 1836
Wilford ordained a Seventy in Second Quorum of Seventy by David Patten and Warren Parrish.
Oct 25, 1836
Wilford leaves Kentucky to return to Ohio.
Nov 7, 1836
Wilford votes in national elections for Martin Van Buren (President) and Richard Johnson (Vice President).
Nov 25, 1836
Wilford returns to Kirtland from mission to Southern states and tours Kirtland Temple.
Dec 1836
Wilford studies Latin and Greek in the Kirtland School (held in the attic of the temple).
Jan 1837 - Apr 1837
Wilford attends School of the Prophets.
Jan 3, 1837
Wilford called to be a member of the First Quorum of the Seventy.
Jan 28, 1837
Wilford introduced to Phebe Whittemore Carter, a recent convert from Maine.
Mar 23, 1837
Wilford spends his first day in the Kirtland Temple.
Apr 6, 1837
Wilford attends Solemn Assembly and receives washings and anointings in Kirtland Temple.
Apr 13, 1837
Wilford and Phebe married by Frederick G. Williams in Joseph Smith's home in Kirtland.
Apr 15, 1837
Wilford receives his patriarchal blessing from Joseph Smith Sr.
May 1837
Wilford and Phebe live with Warren and Martha Parrish; Wilford works for Heber C. Kimball.
May 1837
Woodruffs live with Jonathan and Olive Hale; Wilford records patriarchal blessings for Joseph Smith Sr.
May 31, 1837
Phebe stays with Olive; Wilford leaves on mission to Canada/Maine with Jonathan Hale.
June 12, 1837
Wilford visits childhood home in Farmington, Connecticut and stays with his family.
July 12, 1837
Wilford baptizes his Uncle Ozem, Aunt Hannah, and cousin John Woodruff.
Aug 8, 1837
Wilford meets Phebe's family for the first time while visiting Scarborough, Maine.
Aug 19, 1837
Wilford arrives in the Fox Islands, Maine.
Dec 29, 1837
Wilford stays with Charles Brown (father of future wife Sarah E. Brown).
Jan 12, 1838
Joseph Smith moves Church to Far West, Missouri, to escape persecution in Ohio.
Apr 19, 1838
Wilford stays with Charles Brown (father of future wife Sarah E. Brown).
May 14, 1838
Wilford reads Parley P. Pratt's explanation of adoption by baptism into kingdom of God.
July 1838
Joseph Smith explains the need for all living and dead to receive ordinances.
July 1, 1838
Wilford baptizes father Aphek, stepmother Azubah, half-sister Eunice in Farmington, CT.
July 8, 1838
Wilford called to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Doctrine and Covenants 118
July 14, 1838
Wilford present for birth of his first child, Sarah Emma, in Scarborough, Maine.
Aug 7, 1838
Wilford returns to his mission in the Fox Islands.
Aug 9, 1838
Wilford receives news of calling as an Apostle; call to go on mission to England with apostles.
Oct 4, 1838
Woodruffs begin trek from Maine to Missouri with group of converts to gather with the Saints.
Oct 27, 1838
Governor Boggs issues order expelling Saints from Missouri under threat of extermination.
Oct 30, 1838
Haun's Mill massacre in Caldwell County, Missouri, and surrender of Church leaders in Far West demanded.
Nov 1838
Court hearings to determine Church leaders' fate; Joseph, Hyrum and others are incarcerated in Liberty Jail.
Nov 1838 - Dec 1838
While Church leaders remain in Liberty Jail, the Saints are forced from Missouri and relocate in Illinois.
Nov 1, 1838
Joseph and Hyrum Smith and other Church leaders surrender; General Samuel Lucas orders their execution.
Dec 1838 - Apr 1839
Phebe deathly ill with brain fever; after her spirit leaves her body Wilford restores her to life.
Mar 16, 1839
At age 32 Wilford is ordained an Apostle at the temple site in Far West, Missouri.
Apr 16, 1839
Wilford records his call to serve his third mission.
Apr 26, 1839
Woodruffs move to Montrose, IA, live in abandoned barracks with Brigham Young's family.
May 4, 1839
Joseph Smith begins dictating history to scribe James Mulholland; used in Manuscript History of the Church.
May 18, 1839
Wilford leaves on two year mission to England with John Taylor.
June 11, 1839
Woodruffs winter in Rochester, IL with Brown family; Charles and Rebecca Brown die.
Aug 8, 1839
Times and Seasons published in Nauvoo, Illinois through 1846.
Nov 1839 - Dec 1839
Church leaders escape Liberty Jail with help of guards; Saints move to Commerce, Illinois and establish Nauvoo.
Nov 1839
Church historian James Mulholland dies; completed Manuscript History of the Church up to September 30, 1830.
Nov 3, 1839
Joseph Smith travels to Washington, D.C. to deliver Missouri redress petition to President Van Buren.
Nov 29, 1839
Wilford's half-brother Asahel dies in Indiana at the age of 24 (last living of 5 half-brothers).
Dec 11, 1839
3,000 gather in unfinished temple for the first official meeting (the walls were only 4 feet high).
Dec 11, 1839
Willard Richards starts writing Manuscript History of the Church November 1, 1831 - August 30, 1834.
Dec 11, 1839
Wilford, Phebe, and Sarah Emma finally arrive in Quincy, Illinois.
Jan 11, 1840
Church membership is 16,800; population of the 26 United States is 17,100,000.
Feb 10, 1840
Wilford arrives in Liverpool, England; helps convert 1,800 people; serves until May 1841.
Mar 5, 1840
Wilford celebrates Queen Victoria's marriage to Prince Albert by preaching the gospel.
Mar 22, 1840
Wilford arrives at John Benbow's home; over 600 people baptized in 35 days.
May 1840
Phebe's second child Wilford Jr. is born in Montrose, Iowa in Wilford's absence.
July 17, 1840
The Latter-Day Saints' Millennial Star first published in Manchester, England by Parley P. Pratt.
Aug 14, 1840
Phebe's first child Sarah Emma dies at age two in Montrose, Iowa.
Aug 15, 1840
Joseph Smith's first explanation of doctrine on baptism for the dead by living relatives.
Sep 1840
First baptisms for the dead performed in the Mississippi River.
Jan 19, 1841
Joseph Smith announces the need to build a temple in Nauvoo.
Mar 4, 1841
W. W. Phelps writes Manuscript History of the Church Vol. A - 1 for November 1830 to November 1, 1831.
Apr 6, 1841
Revelation to Joseph Smith on building Nauvoo Temple; place for baptisms and endowment. Doctrine and Covenants 124:28 - 42
Apr 6, 1841
William Henry Harrison inaugurated as ninth President of 26 United States.
Apr 20, 1841
John Tyler inaugurated as tenth President of 26 United States after death of President Harrison.
May 20, 1841
Cornerstones are laid for the Nauvoo Temple.
June 2, 1841
Wilford leaves England for America with other members of Quorum of the Twelve.
July 1841 - Aug 1841
Wilford spends time with family; officiates in marriage of sister Eunice to Dwight Webster on August 4.
July 1841 - Aug 1841
Wilford arrives in New York.
Aug 27, 1841
Reunited with Phebe after 2 years; meets his 15-month-old son Wilford Jr.
Oct 3, 1841
Church historian Robert B. Thompson dies; he completed Manuscript History of the Church September to November 1830.
Oct 6, 1841
Joseph Smith directs Saints to stop proxy baptisms in Mississippi River, wait for completion of temple font.
Oct 30, 1841
Wilford and Phebe arrive in Nauvoo, move into their own home for the first time in their married life.
Nov 8, 1841
Wilford is appointed to Nauvoo City Council.
Nov 21, 1841
Wooden font completed in the unfinished basement of Nauvoo Temple.
Dec 27, 1841
Wilford witnesses first baptisms for the dead in the Nauvoo Temple.
Jan 1842
Wilford sees Urim and Thummim.
Feb 3, 1842
Wilford helps haul stone for the Nauvoo House and Nauvoo Temple.
Feb 19, 1842
Wilford appointed manager of the Church's official newspaper Times and Seasons.
Mar 4, 1842
Wilford sets type for printing/publishing the Book of Abraham in Times and Seasons.
Mar 15, 1842
Phebe's third child Phebe Amelia is born in Nauvoo, Illinois.
Mar 27, 1842
Serial publication of Manuscript History of the Church in Times and Seasons as "History of Joseph Smith."
Apr 21, 1842
Nauvoo Reformation included rebaptisms; Wilford rebaptized for the first time.
May 3, 1842
Wilford baptized for mother Bulah; half-brothers Philo and Asahel; Phebe for grandparents.
May 4, 1842
Joseph receives revelation regarding the meaning of endowment; prepares place to administer endowment.
May 7, 1842
Joseph administers first endowment ordinances in room above the Red Brick Store in Nauvoo.
May 15, 1842
Wilford baptized by proxy for great-grandparents Josiah and Sarah Woodford Woodruff.
May 29, 1842
Wilford baptized by proxy for more great-grandparents.
June 1842
Millennial Star begins serial publication of Manuscript History of the Church in England.
Aug 1842 - Sep 1842
Wilford and Phebe baptized for six family members.
Sep 6, 1842
Wilford is confined to his bed with illness for 40 days.
Oct 30, 1842
Joseph Smith's letter states baptism for the dead is welding link between fathers and children. Doctrine and Covenants 128
May 1843
Wilford assists in publication of the Nauvoo Neighbor (published until Saints leave Nauvoo in 1846).
May 16, 1843 - May 17, 1843
Joseph Smith's letter states baptism for the dead is welding link between fathers and children. Doctrine and Covenants 128
July 1843 - Nov 1843
Wilford serves fourth mission in eastern states (with other apostles) to raise funds for temple.
July 12, 1843
Revelation regarding new and everlasting covenant of marriage for eternity dictated. Doctrine and Covenants 132:15 - 20
July 25, 1843
Phebe's fourth child Susan Cornelia born in Nauvoo, Illinois, in Wilford's absence.
Aug 5, 1843
Wilford arrives in Philadelphia.
Oct 1, 1843
Willard Richards starts Volume B - 1 of the Manuscript History of the Church commencing with September 1, 1834.
Nov 4, 1843
Wilford returns to Nauvoo from mission to New England. (Age 36.)
Nov 11, 1843
Wilford's marriage to Phebe sealed for eternity by Hyrum Smith.
Dec 2, 1843
Wilford receives washings, anointings, and endowment.
Dec 23, 1843
Phebe receives washings, anointings, and endowment.
Jan 28, 1844
Publication of "The History of Joseph Smith" in the Times and Seasons covering period up to January 7, 1832.
Mar 2, 1844
Wilford and Phebe receive second anointings.
Mar 2, 1844
Willard Richards completes Manuscript History of the Church Vol. B - 1 covering September 1, 1834 - August 5, 1838.
Mar 26, 1844
Wilford attends meeting when Joseph Smith confers priesthood keys on Quorum of the Twelve.
Apr 7, 1844
Wilford records Joseph Smith's discourse on important doctrines at funeral of King Follett.
May 1844 - Aug 1844
Wilford completes brick home in Nauvoo; over the next 2 years lives in it for less than 6 weeks.
May 4, 1844
Wilford serves fifth mission in the eastern states; holds conferences, campaigns for Joseph Smith.
June 26, 1844
Wilford arrives in Boston to attend convention; nominate Joseph Smith for President of the United States.
June 27, 1844
Joseph and Hyrum Smith murdered while in Carthage Jail.
July 1, 1844
Wilford attends Jeffersonian Democracy Convention in Boston to nominate Joseph Smith.
July 7, 1844
Work on the Nauvoo Temple resumes.
July 9, 1844
Wilford learns of Joseph and Hyrum's death through newspaper article in Boston Times.
Aug 6, 1844
Wilford returns to Nauvoo with other members of the Quorum of the Twelve.
Aug 8, 1844
Meeting where majority of Saints sustain Quorum of Twelve as governing body of the Church.
Aug 12, 1844
Wilford accepts call to preside over the European Mission for one year.
Aug 26, 1844
Wilford and Phebe baptized in Mississippi River for deceased relatives.
Aug 28, 1844
Wilford and Phebe and their children leave Nauvoo for England; Wilford's sixth mission.
Dec 6, 1844
Woodruffs board ship to sail from New York City to Liverpool.
Dec 11, 1844
Willard Richards, under the direction of Brigham Young, resumes work on Manuscript History of the Church.
Jan 3, 1845
Woodruffs arrive in Liverpool.
Mar 4, 1845
James K. Polk inaugurated as eleventh President of 27 United States.
June 15, 1845
Willard Richards and Thomas Bullock resume work on Manuscript History of the Church begin at August 5, 1838.
June 25, 1845
First stone laid for the new baptismal font in the Nauvoo Temple.
July 18, 1845
Phebe's fifth child, Joseph, is born in Liverpool, England.
Oct 5, 1845
Church Conference is held in the Nauvoo Temple; pulpits are complete and windows installed.
Dec 10, 1845
First endowments for the living performed in the Nauvoo Temple.
Jan 8, 1846
Population of Nauvoo 14,000 - 15,000; population of Illinois 500,000 - 600,000.
Jan 11, 1846
First priesthood adoptions performed in the Nauvoo Temple.
Jan 16, 1846
First sealings of children to parents performed in the Nauvoo Temple.
Jan 20, 1846
Phebe and 40 other Saints (incl. Wilford's future wife Mary Ann Jackson) leave England.
Jan 22, 1846
Willard Richards and Thomas Bullock stop work on Manuscript History of the Church (until July 1, 1854).
Feb 1846 - Mar 1846
Main exodus of Saints from Nauvoo. Brigham Young's family leaves February 15. Temperature -12 F on February 24.
Feb 1846 - Mar 1846
Times and Seasons stops serial publication of the Manuscript History of the Church; final entry re: August 11, 1834.
Feb 4, 1846
Wilford leaves England for New York; experiences terrible Atlantic storm.
Feb 7, 1846
First Saints leave Nauvoo for Iowa.
Feb 15, 1846
On final day of work in temple, 600 received ordinances; total of 5,615 received endowments in Nauvoo.
Mar 17, 1846
Wilford retrieves daughter from sister-in-law's where she lived during his mission to England.
Mar 20, 1846
Wilford returns to Farmington, CT; parents and cousin Betsey Cossett accompany him to Nauvoo.
Apr 13, 1846
Wilford arrives in Nauvoo with daughter, cousin, and parents; Phebe arrived a few days before.
Apr 15, 1846
Woodruffs tour Nauvoo Temple with others.
Apr 30, 1846
Private dedication of Nauvoo Temple.
May 3, 1846
Public dedication of Nauvoo Temple; Wilford attends with parents, Phebe, Mary Ann Jackson.
May 13, 1846
United States Congress declares war on Mexico.
May 22, 1846
Woodruffs leave Nauvoo to join Saints in Iowa.
June 26, 1846
Wilford at Mt. Pisgah when Captain Allen arrives to recruit Mormon Battalion.
July 9, 1846
Woodruffs reach Council Bluffs.
July 16, 1846 - July 17, 1846
Mormon Battalion recruited by United States Army.
July 25, 1846
Woodruffs cross Missouri River to Cutler's Park, Nebraska.
Aug 1846
Wilford expels Sarah E. Brown and Mary C. Barton from his family.
Aug 2, 1846
Wilford moves his family to Winter Quarters and begins building a cabin to house them for the winter.
Aug 8, 1846
Wilford sealed to Mary Ann Jackson, Sarah Elinor Brown, Mary Caroline Barton.
Aug 29, 1846
Wilford rebaptized 2nd time; rebaptizes Phebe, Sarah E. Brown, Mary C. Barton, Mary Ann Jackson, Rosetta King.
Oct 15, 1846
Wilford severely injured by falling tree: breaks breastbone, three ribs, suffers internal injuries.
Nov 12, 1846
Phebe's fifth child Joseph dies at age 16 months in Winter Quarters, Nebraska.
Dec 10, 1846
Phebe's sixth child Ezra born in Winter Quarters, Nebraska, and dies 2 days later.
Dec 13, 1846
483 Saints at Winter Quarters: 334 sick, 53 wives of Mormon Battalion soldiers, 75 widows.
Jan 19, 1847
Church membership is 34,694.
Apr 14, 1847
Wilford organizes "adopted" family (40 heads of households) under covenant to abide rules.
May 25, 1847
Wilford leaves for the Salt Lake Valley with the first company of pioneers.
May 25, 1847
James Jackson Woodruff born (only child of Mary Ann Jackson and Wilford).
June 14, 1847
Mary Ann Jackson and her 19-day-old son James start journey to Salt Lake with Wilford's father Aphek.
July 22, 1847
Advance company arrives in Salt Lake Valley (still Mexican territory at the time); sets up camp.
July 24, 1847
Wilford arrives in Salt Lake Valley with Brigham Young and plants potatoes.
July 26, 1847
Wilford first to climb Ensign Peak.
July 26, 1847
Location for Salt Lake Temple Block designated (originally 40 acres).
July 31, 1847
First bowery built on Temple Block by Mormon Battalion.
Aug 6, 1847
Wilford, Brigham Young, and other apostles are rebaptized (Wilford's third rebaptism).
Aug 26, 1847
After planting crops and building cabins, Wilford leaves Salt Lake to return to Winter Quarters.
Sep 5, 1847
Wilford's group meets companies heading west incl. father Aphek, wife Mary Ann, son James.
Oct 28, 1847
Phebe's seventh child Shuah Carter born in Council Bluffs, Iowa, in Wilford's absence.
Oct 31, 1847
Wilford arrives in Council Bluffs/Kanesville, Iowa.
Dec 1847
First Presidency reorganized with Brigham Young as President of the Church.
Dec 5, 1847
Log tabernacle built in Council Bluffs.
Dec 27, 1847
Brigham Young sustained as President of the Church by the Saints.
Feb 2, 1848
Treaty signed ending Mexican-American War. Mexico cedes to United States: present day CA, NV, NM, WY, AZ, and CO
Mar 18, 1848
Wilford baptizes 8-year-old son Wilford Jr.
May 11, 1848
Mary Ann Jackson divorces Wilford.
June 21, 1848
Wilford leaves Iowa with family to preside over Church in Eastern United States and Canada.
July 22, 1848
Phebe's seventh child Shuah Carter dies in LaMoille, Illinois at age 9 months.
Aug 12, 1848
Woodruffs arrive in Boston, Massachusetts.
Mar 5, 1849
Zachary Taylor inaugurated as twelfth President of 30 United States.
Mar 8, 1849
Constitutional convention held to form the State of Deseret. (to encompass present day Utah, Nevada, Arizona, and parts of CA, WY, CO, NM, OR, and ID.
Mar 22, 1849
Wilford baptizes father-in-law Ezra Carter.
Apr 1849
Second bowery built on Temple Block in Salt Lake City.
1850
Church membership 61,000; population of Utah Territory 11,380; population of United States 23,192,000.
Apr 9, 1850
Woodruffs leave Boston with a group of 209 converts to join the Saints in Utah.
May 16, 1850
Woodruffs return to Council Bluffs, Iowa.
June 15, 1850
Woodruffs leave for Salt Lake Valley from Kanesville, Iowa.
July 10, 1850
Millard Fillmore inaugurated as 13th President of 30 United States.
Sep 9, 1850
Under Compromise of 1850, Congress created the Utah Territory; Brigham Young appointed as Governor.
Oct 14, 1850
Woodruffs arrive in Salt Lake Valley and live in cabins Wilford built in 1847.
Dec 5, 1850
Wilford appointed to the Council (Legislature) of the State of Deseret (serves a total of 21 terms).
1851
Wilford moves his cabins from Old Fort to construct home on South Temple and West Temple.
1851 - 1854
Marriage sealings and endowments administered in the Utah Territorial Council House in Salt Lake City.
Jan 6, 1851
Wilford begins serving as member of Utah Territorial Legislature.
Mar 20, 1851
Wilford's stepmother Azubah Hart dies in Burlington, Vermont.
Apr 1851
Plans announced for construction of adobe Tabernacle on Temple Block.
July 19, 1851
Phebe's eighth child Beulah Augusta born in Salt Lake City.
Aug 2, 1851
Groundbreaking for adobe Tabernacle on Temple Square.
Nov 15, 1851
Publication of the Manuscript History of the Church begins in the Deseret News.
Jan 1852 - Mar 1852
First Thursday of the month designated for fasting and prayer (later changed to first Sunday by Wilford).
Mar 28, 1852
Wilford serves second term as member of Territorial Legislature.
Mar 28, 1852
Wilford sealed to plural wife Mary Meek Giles Webster by Brigham Young in Woodruff's home.
Apr 6, 1852
General Conference held in new adobe Tabernacle on Temple Block.
Apr 7, 1852
Brigham Young sustained as Governor of the State of Deseret.
July 7, 1852
Endowments resumed in Council House by Heber C. Kimball at the direction of Brigham Young.
July 25, 1852
Wilford rebaptizes plural wife Mary Webster and baptizes 8-year-old daughter Susan.
Aug 3, 1852
Workers began laying foundation stones for the wall around the Temple Block.
Aug 8, 1852
Revelation on patriarchal marriage first made public by Brigham Young.
Oct 3, 1852
Wilford's plural wife Mary Meek Giles Webster dies.
Dec 21, 1852
Wilford appointed clerk and historian of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles at age 45.
Jan 14, 1853
Wilford serves third term as member of Utah Territorial Legislature.
Jan 25, 1853
Phebe's ninth child Aphek born in Salt Lake City and only lives two hours.
Feb 1853 - Apr 1853
Wilford attends groundbreaking ceremony and dedication of Salt Lake Temple site.
Feb 14, 1853
Wilford assigned to supervise construction of temple foundation; started digging February 23.
Mar 4, 1853
Franklin Pierce inaugurated as 14th President of 31 United States.
Mar 13, 1853
Wilford sealed to Emma Smith and Sarah Brown in Council House; resealed to Phebe.
Apr 6, 1853
Cornerstones of Salt Lake Temple were laid.
June 15, 1853
Eunice, Wilford's only sister, dies in Burlington, Vermont.
July 1, 1853
Thomas Bullock and Willard Richards resume work on the Manuscript History of the Church.
Dec 1, 1853
Manuscript History of the Church completed to March 1, 1843: Vol. D - 1 is August 1, 1842 to July 1, 1843.
Dec 13, 1853
Sealing to Mary Ann Jackson cancelled?
Jan 20, 1854
Wilford serves fourth term in Utah Territorial Legislature.
Apr 4, 1854
Sarah Brown's first child David Patten Woodruff is born in Salt Lake City.
Apr 7, 1854
George A. Smith appointed Church Historian; Manuscript History of the Church July 1, 1843 - April 30, 1844.
June 1854
Third bowery built on Temple Square, north of adobe Tabernacle.
Dec 11, 1854
Wilford serves in Territorial Legislature December 11 to January 19, 1855.
Feb 3, 1855
Church Reformation takes place in Utah.
May 5, 1855
Wilford elected president of the Universal Scientific Society established in the Territory.
May 5, 1855
First endowments for the living administered in the Endowment House.
May 5, 1855
Wilford attends dedication of Endowment House in Salt Lake City.
May 27, 1855
Wilford tours southern Utah settlements with Brigham and apostles.
Sep 13, 1855
Wilford helps establish the Deseret Horticultural Society.
Dec 1855 - Jan 1856
Wilford serves fifth term in Territorial Legislature.
Mar 17, 1856
Wilford serves on Board of Directors of Deseret Agriculture and Manufacturing Society.
Mar 17, 1856
Second Constitutional Convention held and petition for State of Deseret delivered to Washington, D.C.
Apr 7, 1856
Wilford rebaptizes family members over the age of 8 (3 wives, 3 children, and "Lamanite" boy Moroni).
Apr 28, 1856
Wilford appointed Assistant Church Historian (serves in Historian's Office from 1856 to 1883).
Sep 1856
Wilford poisoned while skinning livestock; life saved through priesthood blessings.
Oct 2, 1856
Church-wide reformation includes rebaptizing, restructuring and recommitment to principles and covenants.
Oct 2, 1856
Wilford helps dedicate Endowment House baptismal font.
Dec 1856 - Jan 1857
Wilford serves sixth term in Utah Territorial Legislature to January 16, 1857.
Dec 30, 1856
First baptisms performed in font; Quorum of the Twelve rebaptized (4th rebaptism for Wilford).
Dec 30, 1856
Members of Utah Territorial Legislature rebaptized (Wilford for the fifth time).
Jan 1857
Church membership is 55,236.
Jan 18, 1857
Wilford and George A. Smith complete Manuscript History of the Church up to Joseph Smith's death in 1844.
Mar 4, 1857
Sarah's second child Brigham Young Woodruff is born in Salt Lake City.
Mar 4, 1857
James Buchanan inaugurated as 15th President of 31 United States.
July 13, 1857
President Buchanan removes Brigham Young as Governor; sends army to escort new Governor Cumming.
July 24, 1857
Saints receive news that 2,500 U.S. Army troops are coming to Utah.
July 31, 1857
Wilford sealed to plural wife Sarah Delight Stocking ("Delight") by Brigham Young.
Sep 11, 1857
Attack on wagon train of emigrants and massacre at Mountain Meadows.
Sep 29, 1857
John D. Lee gives false report of Mountain Meadows massacre to Wilford and Brigham Young.
Oct 1, 1857
United States Army winters at Camp Scott, Wyoming, 100 miles from Salt Lake City.
Oct 4, 1857
Emma's first child Hyrum Smith Woodruff is born in Salt Lake City.
Oct 16, 1857
US Army Colonel Alexander's letter threatens Saints with extermination if they oppose Army.
Nov 21, 1857
Alfred Cumming charges Brigham Young with treason; declares Utah citizens in rebellion against U.S.
Dec 13, 1857
Wilford serves seventh term in Territorial Legislature.
Feb 3, 1858
President Buchanan asks for four more regiments to help quell "rebellion."
Apr 1858
Wilford moves families to Provo; 30,000 Saints prepare to abandon/burn Salt Lake City ahead of army.
Apr 1858
Third bowery on Temple Block in Salt Lake City dismantled before arrival of Johnston's Army.
Apr 8, 1858
Governor Cumming enters Salt Lake City without army escort under terms negotiated by Thomas Kane.
June 1858
U. S. Army enters abandoned Salt Lake Valley.
July 1858 - Aug 1858
Saints begin returning to their homes in Salt Lake City.
Nov 24, 1858
Emma's first child Hyrum Smith Woodruff dies at age 13 months.
Dec 13, 1858 - Dec 31, 1858
Wilford serves eighth term in Utah Legislature.
Jan 30, 1859
Wilford performs marriage of daughter Susan to Robert Scholes (first child to marry).
Apr 4, 1859
Wilford's daughter Phoebe Amelia is sealed to Lorenzo Snow as his eighth wife.
May 30, 1859
Sarah's third child Phebe Arabell is born in Salt Lake City.
Oct 16, 1859 - Oct 29, 1859
Wilford is dying; gives family final instructions on funeral and disposition of belongings.
1860
Church membership 61,000; population of Utah Territory 40,273, population of 33 United States 31,443,000.
May 21, 1860
First grandchild born, Robert and Susan's daughter; four generations living in his home.
July 4, 1860
Emma's second child Emma Manella is born in Salt Lake City.
Dec 20, 1860
Seven southern states secede from Union. (Confederacy included 15 states and territories by 1862.)
Mar 4, 1861
Abraham Lincoln inaugurated as 16th President of 26 states.
Apr 21, 1861
News arrives in Utah of firing on Fort Sumter and the beginning of the Civil War.
May 28, 1861
Wilford's father Aphek Woodruff dies.
June 1, 1861
Delight's first child Marion is born in Salt Lake City; Wilford learns of father's death.
Dec 1861
Governor John Dawson arrives on 7th departs on 31st; vetoes 3rd Constitutional Convention.
Jan 14, 1862
Legislature of the State of Deseret meets simultaneously with Utah Territorial Legislature.
Jan 20, 1862
Sarah's fourth child Sylvia Melvina is born in Salt Lake City.
June 9, 1862
Congress rejects fourth petition for formation of State of Deseret; Brigham Young still serves as Governor.
June 9, 1862
Wilford helps draft constitution for State of Deseret; Brigham Young elected first governor.
June 10, 1862
Salt Lake Temple foundation razed and top stones removed.
July 6, 1862
Wilford moves plural wife Delight to Fort Herriman to be near her family.
July 6, 1862
Morrill Anti-Bigamy Law signed by Abraham Lincoln.
July 8, 1862
Wilford baptizes son David Patten Woodruff.
July 22, 1862
Wilford serves as President of Deseret Agriculture and Manufacturing Society for 15 years (1862 - 1877).
Aug 23, 1862
Wilford records Brigham Young's plans for a 15,000-seat tabernacle on Temple Square.
Jan 1, 1863
Emancipation Proclamation issued by Abraham Lincoln.
Feb 3, 1863
Emma's third child Asahel Hart is born in Salt Lake City.
Apr 6, 1863
Plans announced for construction of Great Tabernacle on Temple Block.
Apr 7, 1863
Wilford Jr. called to serve a mission in England.
May 29, 1863
James Jackson Woodruff returns to live with Wilford.
July 25, 1863
Delight's second child Emeline is born in Salt Lake City.
Nov 3, 1863
Sarah's fifth child Newton is born in Salt Lake City.
Mar 4, 1865
Abraham Lincoln's second inauguration.
Apr 9, 1865
Civil War ends.
Apr 14, 1865
Abraham Lincoln assassinated.
Apr 15, 1865
Andrew Johnson inaugurated as 17th President of 36 United States.
Dec 23, 1865
Delight's third child Ensign is born in Salt Lake City.
Dec 26, 1866
Brigham Young reintroduces second anointings.
Feb 12, 1867
Emma receives her second anointing.
Feb 14, 1867
Delight receives her second anointing.
Apr 10, 1867
Emma's fourth child Ann Thompson is born in Salt Lake City and dies the next day.
Apr 11, 1867
Emma's child Ann Thompson dies.
Oct 6, 1867
First meeting held in Great Tabernacle on Temple Block.
Oct 26, 1867
Sarah's sixth child Mary is born in Salt Lake City.
Dec 2, 1867
Wilford participates in reestablishment of the School of the Prophets.
July 23, 1868
Emma's fifth child Clara Martisha is born in Salt Lake City.
Aug 29, 1868
Delight's fourth child Jeremiah is born in Fort Herriman, Utah.
Mar 4, 1869
Ulysses S. Grant inaugurated as 18th President of 37 United States.
May 10, 1869
Transcontinental Railroad completed, effectively ending isolation of Utah.
Dec 16, 1869
Delight's fourth child Jeremiah dies at age 15 months in Salt Lake City.
1870
Church membership 90,130; population of Utah Territory 86,336; population of 38 United States 39,820,000.
Feb 1870
Utah women given the right to vote; Liberal (non-Mormon) Party formed opposing People's (Mormon) Party.
Nov 21, 1870
Wilford comforts Emma through her miscarriage.
Dec 5, 1870
Sarah's seventh child Charles Henry is born in Salt Lake City.
Jan 31, 1871
Brigham Young proposes idea of building a temple in St. George.
Feb 2, 1871
Sarah's seventh child Charles Henry dies at age two months in Salt Lake City.
Apr 17, 1871
Delight's fifth child Rosannah is born in Salt Lake City.
Apr 18, 1871
Wilford moves wife Sarah Brown and her children to Randolph, Utah along with Wilford Jr. and his family.
Oct 6, 1871
Priesthood members vote in favor of building temple in St. George.
Nov 9, 1871
Groundbreaking ceremony for St. George Temple.
Sep 27, 1872
Wilford travels to California to attend California State Fair.
Oct 22, 1872
Delight's fifth child Rosannah dies at age 18 months in Salt Lake City.
Nov 23, 1872
Emma's sixth child Abraham Owen is born in Salt Lake City.
Feb 2, 1873
Sarah's eighth child Edward Randolph is born in Randolph, Utah.
Feb 8, 1873
Sarah's eighth child Edward Randolph dies in Randolph.
Aug 14, 1873
Delight's sixth child John Jay is born in Salt Lake City.
June 23, 1874
Poland Act passed by Congress becomes legal basis for the prosecution of polygamists in the 1870s and 1880s.
Apr 10, 1875
Seniority of apostles adjusted according to ordination date, placing John Taylor ahead of Wilford.
July 17, 1875
Wilford rebaptized (for the sixth time) along with other members of the Quorum of the Twelve.
Aug 11, 1875
St. George Temple baptismal font dedicated; used to rebaptize Saints entering the United Order in St. George.
Oct 3, 1875
President Ulysses S. Grant visits Salt Lake City.
Oct 9, 1875
Great Tabernacle on Temple Block dedicated by President John Taylor.
Jan 3, 1876
Wilford moves Delight into her new house in Salt Lake City.
Apr 9, 1876
Emma's seventh child Winnifred Blanche is born in Salt Lake City.
Nov 1, 1876
Wilford moves to St. George to assist in readying temple for dedication.
Nov 7, 1876
National elections.
Nov 13, 1876
Wilford, L. John Nuttall and John D. T. McAllister begin writing down the temple ceremony.
1877
Church membership reaches 115,065.
Jan 1, 1877
Wilford, Brigham Young Jr., and Erastus Snow dedicate portions of St. George Temple.
Jan 9, 1877
First baptism for the dead performed in St. George Temple font.
Jan 11, 1877
First proxy endowments performed in this dispensation in St. George Temple.
Jan 11, 1877
First proxy sealings and sealings and endowments for the living in St. George Temple.
Jan 14, 1877
Brigham Young asked Wilford and others to write out the temple ceremonies.
Jan 16, 1877
Wilford administers second anointing to the first couple in the St. George Temple.
Feb 7, 1877
Wilford administers second anointing by proxy for the first time in the St. George Temple.
Feb 23, 1877
Wilford receives revelation authorizing proxy ordinances for his family by non-relatives.
Mar 1, 1877
In honor of Wilford's 70th birthday, 154 women serve as proxies in ordinances for his family.
Mar 3, 1877
Rutherford B. Hayes inaugurated as 19th President of 38 United States.
Mar 10, 1877
Wilford sealed to Eudora Lovina Young by her father Brigham Young.
Mar 21, 1877
Wilford and others finished writing down the ceremonies and temple procedures.
Mar 22, 1877
Wilford performed first adoptions (two couples to Brigham Young) in St. George Temple.
Mar 27, 1877
Phebe, Wilford Jr., Beulah and Phoebe Amelia arrive in St. George to work in temple.
Mar 30, 1877
First time Wilford ever acted as proxy in endowment: for "Prophet" Robert Mason.
Apr 1, 1877
General Conference held in completed temple, dedication of entire temple.
Apr 8, 1877
At the age of 70, Wilford called to preside over the St. George Temple (served until June 26, 1884).
Apr 11, 1877
First time anyone ever adopted to Wilford: Josiah G. Hardy, Samuel B. Hardy and their wives.
Apr 14, 1877
Wilford's family leaves St. George to return to Salt Lake City.
Apr 16, 1877
Wilford resigns as President of the Deseret Agricultural and Manufacturing Society after 15 years.
Apr 25, 1877
Site for Manti Temple dedicated by Brigham Young.
May 18, 1877
Site for Logan Temple dedicated by Brigham Young.
June 16, 1877
Wilford's son Brigham drowns in Bear River at age 20.
July 1877
Church-wide priesthood reorganization included rebaptism.
Aug 19, 1877 - Aug 21, 1877
Wilford's vision of Signers of Declaration of Independence; proxy baptisms for Eminent Men and Women.
Aug 22, 1877 - Aug 24, 1877
Majority of endowments completed for Eminent Men and Women; some sealings also completed.
Aug 29, 1877
Brigham Young dies.
Sep 1, 1877
Wilford accompanies Lucy Bigelow Young to Salt Lake City for funeral.
Sep 2, 1877
Funeral service for Brigham Young held in Tabernacle.
Sep 2, 1877
Wilford dedicates Brigham Young's grave.
Sep 4, 1877
Apostles meet and agree that John Taylor will be President of the Quorum of the Twelve.
Sep 16, 1877
Wilford publicly shares his vision of the Signers of the Declaration of Independence.
Sep 17, 1877
Wilford participates in the cornerstone laying ceremony for the Logan Temple.
Oct 6, 1877
Solemn Assembly to sustain Quorum of Twelve as leading body; John Taylor as Quorum president.
Nov 29, 1877
Endowments resume in Endowment House in Salt Lake City for those too ill or elderly to travel to St. George.
Jan 1878 - Mar 1878
Wilford spends two months working in St. George Temple.
Apr 1, 1878
Wilford and Eudora's son Brigham Young Woodruff is born and dies nine hours later. He is buried in the St. George City Cemetery.
June 28, 1878
Delight's seventh child Julia Delight Stocking is born in Salt Lake City.
Nov 1878
Wilford is divorced from Eudora Young? ("sent bill" on November 25; "signed bill" on November 28).
Dec 2, 1878
Wilford asks Mary Ann Jackson to be resealed to him. (Note written in shorthand in journal margin.)
Jan 1, 1879
Wilford and Phebe move from Valley House into house next door; lease Valley House to be used as a hotel.
Jan 2, 1879
Emma's eighth child, Wilford's 34th and last child, Mary Alice is born in Salt Lake City.
Jan 6, 1879
Supreme Court denies George Reynolds' challenge to Morrill Law; plural marriage a criminal offense.
Feb 7, 1879
Wilford goes into hiding to avoid arrest for polygamy.
Mar 1879 - Apr 1880
Wilford spends a year in Arizona "on the underground" serving a mission among the Native Americans.
1880
Church membership 135,000; Utah Territory 143,963; population of 38 United States 50,190,000.
Jan 26, 1880
Wilford receives Wilderness Revelation re: God's defense of the patriarchal law of marriage.
Apr 2, 1880
Wilford returns to Salt Lake City from exile in Arizona.
Oct 10, 1880
First Presidency reorganized with John Taylor President; Wilford as President of Quorum of Twelve.
Oct 10, 1880
Pearl of Great Price officially accepted as scripture by the membership of the Church.
Jan 16, 1881
Wilford appointed General President of Young Men's Mutual Improvement Association.
Feb 1881 - Mar 1881
Wilford works for a month in the St. George Temple.
Mar 4, 1881
James A. Garfield inaugurated as 20th President of 38 United States.
Mar 5, 1881
Apostles wash feet against enemies as directed in Wilderness Revelation.
May 1881 - Apr 1889
Wilford serves eight years as Church Historian (until becoming President of the Church).
Sep 20, 1881
Chester A. Arthur inaugurated as 21st President of 38 United States after assassination of James A. Garfield.
Nov 1881 - Dec 1881
Wilford works in St. George Temple.
Jan 8, 1882
Assembly Hall on Temple Block dedicated by Joseph F. Smith.
Mar 14, 1882
Edmunds Act passed: plural marriage a felony, cohabitation a misdemeanor.
Mar 24, 1882
First Presidency counsels men to live with "only one wife under the same roof."
Apr 1882
Sixth Constitutional Convention for Utah held; Congress rejects petition for statehood on February 23, 1883.
Oct 5, 1883
Wilford sustained in General Conference as Church Historian and recorder.
Oct 12, 1883
John Taylor reinstitutes the School of the Prophets with "washing of the feet."
Dec 1883 - Jan 1884
Wilford works in St. George Temple.
May 17, 1884
Wilford helps dedicate Logan Temple.
May 29, 1884 - June 19, 1884
Wilford tours Idaho settlements with wife Sarah and Heber J. Grant.
Jan 1885 - Oct 1887
Wilford goes into hiding again to avoid arrest; lives in St. George area from January 20 to November 5, 1885.
Mar 4, 1885
Grover Cleveland inaugurated as 22nd President of 38 United States.
Nov 5, 1885
Wilford called back to Salt Lake City for a meeting of Quorum of the Twelve.
Nov 9, 1885
Wilford sees his wife Phebe for the last time and gives her a blessing.
Nov 10, 1885
Phebe Woodruff dies; Wilford watches funeral from Church office to avoid arrest.
Jan 13, 1887
Congress passes the Edmunds-Tucker Act; Act becomes law on March 3, 1887.
Apr 24, 1887
John D. T. McAllister becomes St. George Temple President.
June 1887 - July 1887
Seventh Constitutional Convention for Utah held; Congress rejects petition for statehood.
July 25, 1887
Wilford, as President of Quorum of the Twelve, becomes the leader of the Church.
July 25, 1887
John Taylor dies at the age of 80.
July 29, 1887
Wilford watches John Taylor's funeral procession from Church office to avoid arrest.
July 30, 1887
Frank H. Dyer appointed receiver for the government; Church property confiscated.
Oct 9, 1887
Wilford meets with Saints in Salt Lake Tabernacle for first time in three years.
Mar 1888
Wilford's reorganization of First Presidency fails due to discord re: George Q. Cannon.
May 17, 1888
Wilford dedicates the Manti Temple in private services.
May 21, 1888
Lorenzo Snow dedicates Manti Temple in public ceremony after Wilford returns to Salt Lake City.
May 27, 1888
When Erastus Snow dies Wilford is only living Apostle who served in the days of Joseph Smith.
June 14, 1888
Wilford directs all 32 stakes to establish Stake Academies to educate youth of the Church.
July 9, 1888
Church's attorneys obtain commitment from U.S. Solicitor that temples would not be confiscated.
Nov 7, 1888
Benjamin Harrison is elected president.
Dec 20, 1888
Apostles refuse to sign document rejecting polygamy.
Mar 4, 1889
Benjamin Harrison inaugurated as 23rd President of 38 United States.
Apr 5, 1889
First Presidency reorganized: Wilford as President, George Q. Cannon and Joseph F. Smith as counselors.
Apr 7, 1889
Solemn Assembly held in Tabernacle to sustain new First Presidency.
Oct 21, 1889 - Nov 16, 1889
Wilford travels with wife Emma and Church leaders to Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Canada.
Nov 1889
Salt Lake Endowment House closed and demolished.
Nov 24, 1889
Wilford receives revelation on politics and polygamy; will not trade religion for statehood.
Nov 30, 1889
Judge Anderson denies immigrating Church members United States' citizenship.
Dec 23, 1889
Church-wide fast day on Joseph Smith's birthday asking for deliverance from persecution.
1890
Church membership 188,000; Utah Territory 210,779; population of 44 United States. 62,948,000.
May 19, 1890
U.S. Supreme Court sustains Edmunds-Tucker Act and Congress's right to escheat Church property.
June 1890
Secretary of State James G. Blaine drafts document renouncing polygamy which Church leaders refuse to sign.
Aug 1890
Frank H. Dyer is removed as receiver and replaced by Henry W. Lawrence.
Aug 3, 1890
Wilford visits Saints throughout Utah, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico and Arizona.
Sep 24, 1890
Wilford meets with three apostles regarding decision on polygamy.
Sep 25, 1890
Wilford issues Manifesto on polygamy as a press release.
Oct 6, 1890
Majority of members of the Church attending General Conference sustain the Manifesto.
May 9, 1891
Wilford meets President Benjamin Harrison when he visits Salt Lake City.
May 29, 1891
People's Party is disbanded; Saints advised to join Democrat/Republican parties.
Oct 19, 1891
Wilford testifies in court regarding practice of polygamy.
Oct 25, 1891
Wilford's testimony to Saints and defense of Manifesto.
Nov 6, 1891
Wilford decides temple recommends will be signed by Bishops and Stake leaders only, not by Church president.
Oct 13, 1892
President Harrison asks for the prayers of the First Presidency on behalf of his very ill wife.
Jan 5, 1893
Limited amnesty granted to former polygamists by President Harrison.
Mar 4, 1893
Grover Cleveland inaugurated as the 24th President of 44 United States.
Apr 6, 1893
Wilford dedicates the Salt Lake Temple at age 86.
Aug 29, 1893
Wilford attends World's Fair in Chicago.
Oct 17, 1893
Wilford meets with temple presidents to harmonize the endowment ceremony in all four operating temples.
Jan 12, 1894
Money taken by government under Edmunds-Tucker Act returned to the Church.
Mar 19, 1894
Wilford has dream about Benjamin Franklin.
Apr 6, 1894
Wilford receives revelation regarding sealing practices and the Law of Adoption.
Apr 8, 1894
Wilford announces end to practice of adoption.
Apr 18, 1894
Wilford present at first endowment ceremony in Salt Lake Temple.
July 17, 1894
President Cleveland signed the Utah Enabling Act which gave Utah admission into the Union.
Oct 25, 1894
Wilford inaugurates weekday religious education classes (precursor to seminary and institute programs).