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