READINGS  IN  EARLY  MORMON  HISTORY
(Newspapers of
Iowa, Wisconsin & Minnesota)


Misc. Iowa Newspapers
1845-1849 Articles


Up the River from Nauvoo: Burlington, Iowa, (late 1840s)


1838-1844  |  1845-1849   |  1850-1899



Ens Jan '45  |  Ens Mar '45  |  Ens Apr '45  |  IaTG Apr 19 '45  |  IaMS Apr 24 '45
DGz May 01 '45  |  DGz May 08 '45  |  DGz May 15 '45  |  BHk May 15 '45  |  IaTG May 17 '45
DGz May 22 '45  |  IaTG May 24 '45  |  Ens Jun '45  |  DGz Jun 05 '45  |  BHk Jun 05 '45
BHk Jun 12 '45  |  IaTG Jun 14 '45  |  BHk Jun 19 '45  |  BHk Jun 26 '45  |  IaTG Jun 28 '45
LeeD Jun 28 '45  |  DGz Jul 03 '45  |  BHk Jul 17 '45  |  IaTG Jul 19 '45  |  DGz Jul 24 '45
LeeD Aug 16 '45  |  LeeD Sep 20 '45  |  BHk Sep 25 '45  |  LeeD Sep 27 '45  |  BHk Oct 16 '45;
BHk Oct 23 '45  |  BHk Oct 30 '45  |  BHk Nov 06 '45  |  BHk Nov 13 '45  |  BHk Nov 20 '45
LeeD Nov 29 '45  |  LeeD Dec 06 '45  |  IaTG Jan 17 '46  |  BHk Feb 05 '46  |  BHk Feb 12 '46
LeeD Mar 28 '46  |  LeeD Apr 04 '46  |  IaTG Apr 11 '46  |  LeeD Apr 11 '46  |  LeeD May 09 '46
IaTG May 09 '46  |  LeeD May 30 '46  |  BHk Sep 24 '46  |  DGz Oct 28 '47  |  DGz Nov 04 '47
DGz Feb 14 '48  |  DGz Mar 17 '48  |  DGz Mar 30 '48  |  DGz Jun 15 '48  |  DGz Aug 03 '48
DGz Aug 24 '48  |  DGz Aug 31 '48  |  DGz Sep 07 '48  |  DGz Sep 21 '48  |  DGz Sep 28 '48
DGz Oct 05 '48  |  DGz Oct 12 '48  |  DGz Oct 19 '48  |  DGz Nov 02 '48  |  DGz Nov 23 '48
BHk Jan 04 '49  |  DGz Jan 04 '49  |  FGd Feb 07 '49  |  BHk Feb 08 '49  |  DGz Feb 15 '49
FGd Feb 21 '49  |  DGz Feb 22 '49  |  BHk Mar 29 '49  |  FGd Apr 04 '49  |  ISG Apr 11 '49
ISG Apr 18 '49  |  FGd Apr 18 '49  |  BHk Apr 19 '49  |  ISG Apr 25 '49  |  BHk Apr 26 '49
FGd May 02 '49  |  DGz May 03 '49  |  DGz May 10 '49  |  FGd May 30 '49  |  DGz May 31 '49
DGz Jun 14 '49  |  BHk Jun 21 '49  |  FGd Jun 27 '49  |  BHk Jul 19 '49  |  BHk Jul 26 '49
FGd Aug 08 '49  |  BHk Sep 06 '49  |  DGz Sep 06 '49  |  FGd Sep 09 '49  |  FGd Oct 03 '49
DGz Oct 04 '49  |  DGz Oct 11 '49  |  FGd Oct 17 '49  |  BHk Nov 01 '49  |  FGd Nov 14 '49
BHk Nov 22 '49  |  FGd Nov 28 '49  |  BHk Dec 06 '49


Wisconsin & Minnesota papers have been moved to a new location

Articles Index  |  Strang's Iowa Papers  |  Michigan Newspapers


 



Vol. I.                                Buffalo, Scott Co., I. T., January, 1845.                              No. 7.



From the New York Herald.

MAJOR  NOAH'S  GREAT  LECTURE.

AT THE TABERNACLE, ON THE RESTORATION
OF THE SCATTERED TRIBES OF ISRAEL TO
THE LAND OF PALESTINE.


(under construction)

 


Notes: (forthcoming)


 




Vol. I.                                Buffalo, Scott Co., I. T., March, 1845.                              No. 9.



LATTER  DAY  SAINTS'  MESSENGER  AND  ADVOCATE.

We have received eight Nos. of a semi-monthly periodical, of the above title, published at Pittsburgh, Pa., by the Rev. Sidney Rigdon, lately one of the three presiding High Priests of the church of the Latter day Saints, at Nauvoo. It seems from this, together with other information from good authority, that a few days previous to the death of Joseph and Hiram Smith, after a perfect reconciliation of all previous difficulties, which had so frequently arisen between Joseph and Sidney (for Sidney always fought the spiritual wife doctrine,) it was agreed that Rigdon and family, with a few others, should leave Nauvoo and go to Pittsburgh, to preside over the church in that place and its vicinity. The feelings of President Rigdon on this occasion, may be easily imagined, if we allow fancy to place us in similar situations. For the last twelve years he has devoted himself to the cause in which his whole soul engaged, and when, at length, partial success appeared to have crowned his efforts, the calm peace invited to repose, a stress of jargon and discord again drove him from his happy home, again to plunge into an unfriendly world, and exchange the kind greetings of friends for the harsh denunciations of prejudice and infidelity.

It may be thought that we entertain too much sympathy for the President; but, if the reader could have witnessed the scenes of blood-curdling persecution through which we have passed, shoulder to shoulder with Sidney Rigdon, he would not wonder that, independent of religious feeling, we should entertain a fraternal desire to see him enjoying the comforts of life. If he had seen that man, with a few others, marched out, at Far West, as acceptable sacrifices upon the altar of mobocracy, to save the city from pillage and destruction -- if he could but hear the demoniac yells of the thousands who had collected, a motley host, when the hostages gave themselves up, he would feel the same solicitude for his happiness that we do. Rigdon had been but a short time at Pittsburgh when the news of the murder of the Smiths reached that city. Believing that the hand of the Almighty had been interposed for his own preservation, and that he was divinely pointed out to retrieve the fallen virtue of the Mormon people, he immediately returned to Nauvoo, and offered himself as their future President and head of the church. A majority of the leaders of the faction, however, had drank in the spiritual wife doctrine until, to disavow it would be to expose and acknowledge their own iniquity, and choosing rather to continue in their unhallowed practices, they rejected the man who alone could have brought them back to their primitive purity and holiness.

Returning to Pittsburgh, Pres't. Rigdon established himself and commenced the publication of the 'Messenger and Advocate.' We are glad to hear that all, who really deserve the name of 'Latter day Saints,' are flocking to his standard, and deserting the unholy clique at Nauvoo. --


Note: Elder George M. Hinkle cleverly inserts his claim to innocence in the surrender of the Mormon leaders at Far West, in 1838, as he presents this olive branch of an editorial in Rigdon's behalf. Rigdon's subsequent acceptance of the merger of Hinkle's small group with his own "Church of Christ" marked the Pittsburgh leader's implicit acknowledgment of Hinkle's artlessness in the fall of Far West and the top leaders. Following a brief visit with Rigdon at Pittsburgh, Hinkle returned to Buffalo and continued to frequent eastern Iowa, publishing The Ensign there for several months after the merger of the two Mormon groups.


 




Vol. I.                                Buffalo, Scott Co., I. T., April, 1845.                              No. 10.



TOUR  EAST.

Having just returned from a trip to Pittsburgh, I hasten to inform you of my sayings, doings, etc. My object in going was to attend a conference of ministers from all parts of the United States, to form a general union of all who desire to live by the precepts of the Gospel, and aid in the building up of God's kingdom on earth. The proceedings of our conference, held in this place on the 24th March last, published in this number, will give a better explanation of the reason of our goings...

After the conference, with all its quorums, each in its place, was completely arranged, Pres't. Rigdon informed us that the grand quorum of seventy-three was the highest order in the Church, and that one of its members should be appointed to preside over the whole Church, in order that the kingdom might be perfect, and all things done in Gospel order. When called upon to make the choice, an unanimous cry selected S. Rigdon. The Pres't. then nominated S. James and E. Robinson as his counselors, to which the conference agreed. Being inspired from on high, the President proceeded to instruct the quorums in their several duties...In the afternoon we partook of the sacrament and felt grateful to God for the lesson he had that day taught us. On the next morning we took our departure for St. Louis....

Nothing worthy of publication occurred during our passage home, where we arrived on the night of Saturday, [April] the 26th. We heard startling tales of Mormonism, and saw a number of beautiful specimens of that ungodly people, on our way from St. Louis to Nauvoo; but we will not publish them, and seriously advise all who desire their downfall to let them alone -- do not force them to maintain their present union, and they will soon be found fighting amongst themselves...

... the matters of difficulty that have existed between Elder W. E. McLellin and myself, as noticed in the Ensign, and all other matters of difference, have been fully adjusted and settled, and harmony and confidence restored between us: and if, in any communication I have made pertaining to his character, I sincerely regret if I have unjustly or uncharitably injured his feelings or usefulness in the cause of righteousness.
                               G. M. HINKLE.


Note: William McLellin, who had previously held one of the highest positions in George M. Hinkle's church, and who had edited the church's Ensign during 1844, disassociated himself from Hinkle's group and flirted with the idea of supporting Sidney Rigdon. Both McLellin and Hinkle attended Rigdon's April conference at Pittsburgh, where they became reconciled. By May of 1845 McLellin was temporarily back in Buffalo, working with Hinkle again, and espousing with him the cause of the western Rigdonites.


 



Vol. 8.                                Burlington, Iowa, April 19, 1845.                              No. 41.

 

Mr Orson Hyde, it is rumored, is to be installed as the head of the Mormon Church.

Notes: (forthcoming)


 


IOWA  MORNING  STAR.

Vol. I.                                Keokuk, Iowa, April 24, 1845.                              No. 1.


 

ROBBERY BY MORMONS. -- A gentleman has given us the following particulars of a robbery which occurred near Pekin sometime during last week, Three men, declaring themselves to be Mormon elders and advocating Mormon doctrines came and remained several days in a neighborhood where lived an old man, who was reputed to have a considerable amount of cash on hand. One night about three days after they had come there, the wife of the old man was aroused by some moving about in the house, and on looking up she discovered there three Mormons, or pretended Mormons, just about leaving the room. She immediately awoke her husband, who started out after them, but they were gone. He then gathered some of his neighbors and pursued them to where they had crossed the river, arriving there about a quarter of an hour behind them. They had stolen from him 6 hundred dollars; and one of them, a day or two previous, had obtained from him change for a hundred dollar bill, which proved to be spurious. -- Morgan Journal.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



Vol. 4.                                Davenport, Iowa, May 1, 1845.                              No. 36.



MORMONISM.

Some time has elapsed since we treated our readers to a dish of Mormonism; nothing in the meantime of importance having transpired among the singularly infatuated people worthy of publication. Accounts all agree in representing them in a miserably destitute condition, numbers of them without food sufficient to satisfy the craving of their appetites. Yet almost every steamer deposits upon the shore of Nauvoo additions to their population. This fact may, however, determine the question, how so many persons manage to sustain life without visible employment. New-comers are general[ly] flush of means and being enthusiastic in the cause are easily prevailed upon to surrender a small amount possessed for a larger perspective.

Orson Hyde, it is rumored, is about to become the successor of Joe Smith. Whether he claims the leadership by revelation from heaven, does not appear. But no doubt he will appeal to their superstitions, -- the most vulnerable point with the ignorant -- for the accomplishment of his object.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



Vol. 4.                                Davenport, Iowa, May 8, 1845.                              No. 37.

 

A Warsaw paper contains a long account of horrible outrages said to have been perpetrated by Mormons in Nauvoo City -- and the recital of a series of outrages committed by Hyrum Smith. The paper calls loudly on assistance. If the assertions are facts their accusations should be made the subject of Governmental action -- and as assertions they demand investigations.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



Vol. 4.                                Davenport, Iowa, May 15, 1845.                              No. 38.


 

While the cities of the east are making every exertion to aid the unfortunate sufferers by the recent conflagration, which desolated the city of Pittsburg, the "latter day saints" paper, the Nauvoo Neighbor, indulges in the following blasphemous wish: "Hearken to wisdom. May God who never errs, sprinkle upon every man and city that belies the saints, as upon Pittsburg, now and then, a hot drop!"


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



Vol. VI.                               Burlington,   Iowa,  May 15, 1845.                             No. 51.



(Murder of Miller and Liese
under construction)

 


Note: The article on the murder reprinted in the Iowa Territorial Gazette of May 17th appears to have been taken from this issue of the Hawk Eye.


 



Vol. 8.                                Burlington, Iowa, May 17, 1845.                              No. 45.


 

We are called upon to record a most horrible murder in Lee county in this Territory, to which resulted from an attempt to rob. To save ourselves the trouble of detailing the particulars, we transfer to our column the statement given by a correspondent of the Hawkeye under date of "West Point, May 13," which in the main agrees with what has reached us from other quarters.

We learn that two of the supposed murderers have been arrested at Nauvoo, and are now in custody at the place awaiting an order from the Governor of Illinois for their surrender to the authority of Iowa. They are brothers named Hodges, and we are told once lived at this place. The evidence against them is said to be strong. The cap left at the theatre of the bloodshed has been recognized as belonging to one of them, an the hair (red) which adhered to the gun used upon one of them by Miller, corresponds precisely with that of one of the persons arrested. In addition to this, they were seen about West Point a day or two before the occurrence, with clubs in their possessive, and these have been recognized as the same which were used in the commission of the murder. It is also said that there is testimony to prove that the red haired Hodges was seen to enter Nauvoo about daylight, bare-headed, the morning after the murder. The third villain has not yet been arrested, but with proper vigilance it is hoped he will not be permitted to escape.

Liese, whose life was at first despaired of, it is now thought may possibly recover. Below will be found a detail of the particulars.

An elderly man by the name of Miller and his son-in-law by the name of Liese, living on Sugar Creek, three miles from this place were awakened about 12 o'clock on Saturday night by the entrance of three men with blackened faces, one of them having a darkened lantern in his hand and all being armed with clubs, bowie knives, and pistols. The robbers immediately commenced an attack upon the inmates of the house with their clubs; and the old gentleman, Mr. Miller, seized a gun (not loaded) and one blow felled one of the robbers to the floor, when another of the robbers, with a large bowie knife, stabbed him to the heart, of course, killing him instantly.

The young man Liese, with a chair prostrated another of the robbers, who shot him through the body, while the other robber who was unhurt, cut him most frightfully with his bowie knife, and he now lied past our recovery; he has been married only a few weeks.

The robbers, made good their escape, dragging away the one wounded by the old gentleman; he is supposed to be badly wounded as they were tracked some distance by the blood.

Their object is supposed to have been to murder the whole family for the purpose of plunder. Mr. Miller having recently come from Ohio, he was supposed to have money in his house.

One of the robbers left his cap, and there are a great variety of circumstances to fix the suspicion on the two men, named Hodge and Brown. The sheriff raised a large force and searched for them, but they succeeded in affecting their escape to Nauvoo, that great receptacle of villains, where it is supposed they are concealed, the mother of one of them being a Mormon and residing there, he having also been a Mormon and Had his residence there.

The Sheriff chartered the ferryboat New Purchase, and went to Nauvoo, where he was met at the landing by men of the name of Markham who told him that he knew the house where the wounded robber was, and that they had a guard around the house to prevent his escape; but thought it would not be polite to arrest him until they could secure the other robber, whom they supposed had gone to his mothers residing some miles from Nauvoo.

Markham said however that he would go and see what could be done, and returned in a few moments, which was the last that was seen of him; having learned upon whom suspicion had fallen he doubts wished to gain time to more effectually secure the murderers escape.

The wives of the murdered men saw their husbands butchered and their agony is indescribable they represent the conflict as most horrific.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



Vol. 4.                                Davenport, Iowa, May 22, 1844.                              No. 39.



MURDER  IN  IOWA.

The Warsaw Signal gives the particulars of the murder of a father and son, near the town of Franklin, Lee Co., Iowa. By the account it appears that the unfortunate individuals had emigrated to Iowa this Spring, having in their possession a considerable sum of money, which they designed in investing in lands. One night three men with the design of robbing them entered their house, when meeting with resistance in the fight that ensued, the old man was killed instantly and his son mortally wounded. -- The alarm being given, the murderers hastily fled without making any search for the money. A lad was also seriously wounded. On the following day the inhabitants of Lee co. turned out in vigorous pursuit of the murderers. They were tracked through Nashville, to the river opposite Nauvoo, where it appears, they crossed. Two of them were there ferreted out, the third escaped. Their names were Hodges, brothers, and one of them an Elder of the Mormon Church. The Signal says he is but a fair specimen of the Holy Brotherhood, and that this is the third midnight robbery which has been committed in Lee co., under the circumstances which prove that the Mormons are concerned.

The St. Louis Republican says that all three of the murderers were arrested at Nauvoo but being Mormons, the authorities of the Holy City would not give them to those of Iowa, but were about proceeding to try them in their own court, last news. Such indignation is felt by the people above and below the iniquitous fraternity that it is not improbable an attempt will be made ere long to expel them.


Note 1: Oddly enough, the first news accounts circulated concerning this reprehensible crime, committed in Lee Co., Iowa, seem to have been those published in the Illinois and St. Louis newspapers. A correspondent to the Pittsburgh Gazette, writing from "Warsaw, Ill, May 25, 1845," adds the following: "A great many midnight robberies have lately taken place in Lee county, Iowa, directly opposite Nauvoo, on the west side of the Mississippi; and the Mormons justly suspected of their perpetration. About two weeks ago, in an attempted midnight robbery of a family of newly arrived German emigrants, one man was killed, and another almost hacked to pieces with bowie knifes. The robbers made their escape from their bloody work, but were traced to Nauvoo, and two of them, named Hodges, both Mormons, and one an Elder, were arrested and lodged in Jail to await trial. The third robber has so far eluded detectives. When the Mormons found that these men had been traced to the "holy city," they gave them up to avoid the effects of public indignation. If they had not done so, the people of Lee county would have attacked Nauvoo with a large force of determined men, which they were prepared to do." See also the Gazette of July 7th for more on the Hodges from the same correspondent.

Note 2: Thomas Gregg, in his 1890 book, The Prophet of Palmyra, says: "On Saturday night, May 10, 1845, a horrible robbery and murder was committed near the town of Franklin, Lee County, Iowa, on the persons of John Miller, a Mennonite German minister from Pennsylvania, and Mr. Leiza, his son-in-law... The locality is about ten or twelve miles from Nauvoo, across the Mississippi, and the murders, three in number, were traced to that city. Their names were William Hodge, Stephen Hodge (brothers), and Thomas Brown. The Hodges were arrested on the 13th, and conveyed to the Iowa penitentiary at Fort Madison for safe-keeping. On the 15th, they were indicted by the grand jury in the Lee district court, then in session at West Point, and on the 21st were arraigned for trial. They asked for a change of venue, and the cause was certified to Des Moines County. On the 21st of June they were put upon trial at Burlington... The trial lasted about a week and ended in a verdict of Guilty. Judge Mason sentenced them to the gallows, and on the 15th of July they were duly executed. On the night of the 23d of June, Irvine Hodge, brother to the accused, was assassinated in Nauvoo, while on his way home from a visit to his doomed brothers in the Burlington jail. He had, it was said, endeavored in induce Brigham Young to send and have his brothers rescued from jail; and failing, had been free in denouncing his chief for refusing to authorize the raid.... The "Patriarch" William Smith's letter to the Sangamo Journal, dated September 24, 1846 [says]... 'Irvine Hodge was murdered within twelve feet of Brigham Young's door. Amos Hodge, it is said, was murdered between Montrose and Nashville, Iowa... by Brigham Young's guard, who pretended to escort him out of Nauvoo for his safety... If Mr. Amos Hodge, the father of these young Hodges, will call and see me, I can tell him the names of persons that will put him on the track of the men who murdered his sons.'"


 



Vol. 8.                                Burlington, Iowa, May 24, 1845.                              No. 46.



Arrest of the Murderers.

The two Hodges suspected of being engaged in the murder of Miller in Lee county, were delivered up by the authorities of Nauvoo on last Friday, and were taken to Fort Madison and lodged in the penitentiary for safe keeping. The people of Nauvoo, it is said, acted well in the matter -- refusing to wait until a formal requisition was made upon them by our Governor for the delivery of the prisoners; Brown, their supposed accomplice is yet at large, but the officers were on his trail

The Hodges, it was supposed, would be brought before the Lee county court the present week for trial. They have probably, however, taken the case to some other county.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 




Vol. I.                                Buffalo, Scott Co., I. T., June, 1845.                              No. 12.



           For the Ensign.

La Harp, Hancock co., Ill., May 28, 1845.
    Elder Geo. M. Hinkle, dear brother: I am yet confined to this section of country, in settling up my business. I have succeeded very well with the (so called) Gentile portion of the community, and with some of the Mormon portion of this county, I have done very well. With others, the law cannot be put in force on them, for the best of reasons -- have to find them first. There are still another portion of the Mormon people that are proof against collecting one's demands or dues, they will beat you in the execution. I think I will be detained here some two weeks longer. We have meetings here every Sunday at 4 o'clock p.m. Many are believing the truth, and there appears to be a general spirit of inquiry among the people. Although the president and oracles of the branches of the mormon church in this place, has used his utmost exertion to keep the people from hearing us, and as much as possible crush the spirit of inquiry... Br. Lewis James and myself visited Nauvoo a few days since on business. After putting out our horse at Mr. Loomis' inn, we went to see Mr. Cain and Mr. Taylor (editor). Called at the post office for Mr. Cain, he was at the printing office. Went to the printing office, he was at Mr. Taylor's residence. There we found him, he said he could not attend to our business until evening... We urged upon Mr. Cain the necessity of attending to our business immediately, and for that purpose we again visited Mr. Editor, who appeared to be in great haste to leave our presence. He just thought of an appointment and must fill it. He barely had time to call us murderers, thieves, blacklegs, villains, knaves and fools, and then vanished behind a cloud of anathemies, and we lost sight of him forever. -- ... We returned to Mr. Loomis' and called for our horse and carriage, followed by a gang of ruffians armed with clubs. After we entered the tavern they guarded the door. Our carriage came to the door and we entered it and proceeded on the La Harp road. -- We soon found that the banditti had guarded the road on the hill, to prevent our passing. We went on foot to the hill in front of the temple, and then turned to the right and made our way on the Carthage and Warsaw road. The villains, on seeing us take this course, rushed toward the Carthage road in order to interrupt us, whilst some followed us. Others passed us and went on to the junction of the Warsaw and Carthage roads, to intercept us there. Instead of our going those roads, or either of them as they supposed, we again made our way for the La Harp road, and by letting down fences, we succeeded in getting into that road some six or seven miles from the city. We expected to have had to contend for our freedom by the strength of arms; but, Washington said that a politic general always looked out for a retreat. We claim no little honor on this score. We do not say that our legs were altogether free from fear, but we certainly think our hearts very courageous. Wisdom, also, dictated our course. To throw away our lives for the lives of such wretches, would be doing a manifold injustice to the public.

These are the persecuted people, Latter day Saints! These are the people of whom all manner of evil is spoken -- shall I say, falsely for Christ's sake? No! no!! no!!! but, justly for their folly and crimes. They attempt, and actually do, make capital of such persecution. I will write you again soon. Yours, in view of the rest of God.
                               GEO. W. ROBINSON.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



Vol. 4.                                Davenport, Iowa, June 5, 1845.                              No. 41.



THE  MORMON  TRIALS.

A letter in the St. Louis Republican says that the Circuit Court of Hancock County commenced the trial of the persons indicted for the murder of Joe Smith and Hirum Smith, in June last. The individuals indicted are J. C. Davis, late Senator of said county, T. C. Sharpe, editor of the Warsaw Signal; Mark Aldrich, W. N. Grove, and Col. Levi Williams. Three others were indicted but did not make their appearance at the trial. A considerable array of legal talent is displayed for the defence. Owing to peculiar difficulties in attaining a jury, the trial was postponed for a few days. Great excitement prevails. Everybody that attends court comes armed to the teeth. The Mormons are said to had expressed a determination to take revenge, in case the defendants should not be convicted.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



Vol. VII.                               Burlington,   Iowa,  June 5, 1845.                             No. 2.



Trial of the Hodges.
Death of Liese -- Arrest of Brown

The District Court is now in session in this town. The trail of the Hodges for the murder of the Germans in Lee County will not take place until new week.

Intelligence has been received and we hope it may be true, that Brown, the accomplice of the Hodges, was arrested in St. Louis, to which place he was traced, a few days since.



                From our Correspondent.
                         CARTHAGE, May 28th, 1845.

Mr. Edwards -- Dear Sir: -- As I suppose you feel an interest in a trial now in progress here, I take pleasure in throwing together a few items to enable you to form an opinion of the state of the case. You are aware that five were indicted for the murder of the Smiths: Sharp, Davis, Williams, Aldrich, and Grover. They were first arraigned for the murder of Joseph Smith, and if acquitted on that indictment, will probably be arraigned for the murder of Hiram Smith. I say probably, for the Prosecuting Attorney may abandon the case if unsuccessful on this indictment. The regular panel has been set aside and a new Jury empaneled. The Sheriff shared the same fate, on an affidavit of his partiality, and Mr. Bedell of Warsaw supplies his place. So far every thing has been orderly and decorous and the interest in the case, though deep, has not manifested itself in any undue form. -- There are but few Mormons in town except the witnesses for the prosecution. Mr. Laborn of Springfield is the Leading Attorney for the State, sent down, I understand, by the Governor. (Query, Is not such a proceeding an unconstitutional stretch of power?) -- Messers Browning, Warren, and Skinner conduct the defence. You will at once perceive that there is an array of legal talent in the case which adds much to its intrinsic interest.

The evidence (quite voluminous) was closed today. The evidence for the prosecution has been very positive and to the point nominally, but never were witnesses more thoroughly riddled in the cross-examination. So completely and effectually were they discredited, even from their own mouths, that the Prosecuting Attorney felt himself obliged to declare three of them perjured scoundrels. I cannot give even a synopsis of the evidence, from its length; but it will probably be published, together with the speeches of the attorneys engaged. The publication must be interesting. The speaking commenced today. Mr. Warren spoke for an hour and a half in his best style. He is an able and effective speaker, and his biting sarcasm and keen wit had every chance for display. O. H. Browning, Esq., speaks tomorrow, and you will be aware that he cannot surpassed be as a vigorous and powerful speaker. The Jury will probably retire tomorrow night, to make up their verdict, but there seems to be no doubt of the result. It is generally thought that the Jury will not be out half an hour, and that a verdict of 'not guilty' will be rendered for each defendant. Two of them, Davis and Grover, are virtually clear, as the prosecution admits that there is no evidence against them.

The whole appears more like a farce than a solemn trial, involving the lives of five men. The defendants are at large without bail, the most unconcerned men of any engaged in the proceeding. This fact itself shows plainly what the general opinion is as to their guilt, and how certain is their acquittal.

As I mentioned before, there is a great interest in the proceedings, although not from any fear of the result. Still every thing is quiet, and likely to remain so, so far as the present proceedings are concerned, but it cannot be supposed that the ill feeling already existing in the county will be allayed by this trial. On the contrary it must be increased and there is no probability that the 'Old Citizens of Hancock,' and the Mormons can ever inhabit peaceably the same county. Which of them will give way to the other, time only can determine.   J. T. M.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



Vol. VII.                               Burlington,   Iowa,  June 12, 1845.                             No. 3.



THE  TRIAL  OF  THE  HODGES.

An effort was made by the counsel for Hodges to postpone the trial until next Court. The Judge over-ruled the motion and Tuesday next is set for it positively to come off. In the meantime opportunity is afforded for the prisoners to obtain such important witnesses and affidavits as they say they need.


Note: The two Mormon Hodges arrested for the murder committed in Iowa were William and Stephen Hodges. They were later tried and executed for the bloody deed. Subsequently, their brother Irvine Hodges was murdered in Nauvoo and died practically upon Brigham Young's back doorstep. According to notes in William Shepard's "Mormon Banditti," the parents of these three ruffians "had joined Rigdon... parents lived in Pittsburgh." According to an 1846 report made by Apostle William Smith, a fourth brother was murdered "by Brigham Young's guard" and the father of all four was "Amos Hodge." More likely their father was the same Curtis Hodges whom Rigdon ordained as one of his splinter group's high priests, at Pittsburgh on April 9, 1845. See notes attached to June 26, 1845 Burlington Hawk-Eye for more on Curtis Hodges and his children.


 



Vol. 8.                                Burlington, Iowa, June 14, 1845.                              No. 49.



Trial of the Hodges.

The two Hodges, who were indicted at the late term of the Court in Lee county, for the murder of two Germans, and who took a change of venue to this county were brought to this city on Monday last, in order to sand their trial at the present term of the Court, now in session. On Tuesday they were brought into Court and applied for a continuance, on the ground, as stated in their affidavit, that some twelve or more witnesses resigning in Nauvoo and St. Louis (and by whom they expect to prove as alibi,) would not be in attendance and that they could not safely go to trial without their testimony. The court, however, refused to give them a continuance, but allowed them time until Tuesday next to get their testimony - on which day, we understand, the trial is to commence. There has been considerable excitement occasioned by these murderers, and there seems to be a determination among both the officers of the law and the people, that the murderers shall not go unpunished.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



Vol. VII.                               Burlington,   Iowa,  June 19, 1845.                             No. 4.



THE  HODGES.

The trial of these two young men for the murder of Miller and Liese, commenced on Tuesday last. A jury was empanneled on Monday and the trial is now progressing slowly. Out of about fifty witnesses but six were examined up to Tuesday evening. But these were so important that more time was probably taken up with them than will be with others. The Methodist Church is occupied as the Court room, and that building has been crowded during the progress of the trial. The utmost decorum prevails. There is but little perceivable excitement and there is every disposition to give the prisoners a fair trial. The trial will hardly close before the end of the week. We shall endeavor to lay the trial before our readers, but fearing it might influence the jury or frustrate the ends of justice, we have not thought it advisable to publish any of the testimony until after the verdict.


Notes: (forthcoming).


 



Vol. VII.                               Burlington,   Iowa,  June 26, 1845.                             No. 5.



TRIAL  FOR  MURDER.

The trial of William Hodges and Stephen Hodges, who were indicted for the murder of John Miller, on the 10th of May last, in Lee County, took place before the District Court of Des Moines County, on last week

The following jurors were empanneled on Monday:

David Leonard, Eli Walker, Robert Mickey, James Sow, Isaac Chandler, Vincent Shelley, William Bennett, Joel Hargrove, Moses B. Nutt, John Smith. Thomas Stout and John D. Cameron.

David Rice was sworn as Baliff and charged by the court to keep the Jury together at all times, and not to suffer any one to converse with them, except in his presence.

On Tuesday morning the witnesses on both sides were called and sworn, and on motion of the counsel, were placed in the charge of an officer with directions not to come into the Court room, or within hearing of any witness while on the stand.

L. D. Stockton opened the case to the jury on the part of the United States; F. D. Mills replied for the defense. The prosecution proceeded to call their witnesses and introduced

Jacob Risser. -- I am a son-in-law of John Miller and lived at Leisi's. We went to bed abut ten o'clock on Saturday night May 10th, fastened the door by a latch: -- about half past eleven heard a noise in the house; opened my eyes and heard a striking and a shot with pistol. I jumped out of bed: I expected nothing but murderers; I saw the struggle between Leisi and Miller and the men; knew them by their being in their shirts. -- I heard another shot and I saw Leisi fall, and went towards the door and nothing more was seen. After all was over I found Mr. Miller outside of the door, about five feet from the door, on the ground; for he was dead; lying with his face to the house; he was lying more on his face than his side; he was stabbed in his left breast; had a bad blow in his forehead, and blows on his head and on his body (describes the position they lay in.) -- There was light in the room when I awoke, but just as I awoke the light went out. We had just moved into the house about two weeks before from Ohio. Mr. Miller came with us; Mr. Leisi came with us; he had gone to Ohio in winter; he was a son-in-law of Miller; had been married about two months in Ohio and came with us. -- Miller was about 58 years old; was a Minister. Leisi was shot in his right breast; had a cut with a knife on his skull about an inch long; through the skull; had a cut with a knife on each shoulder blade; had also a cut across back on his neck. -- The wound in Miller's breast was with a large knife; the wound was wide as the two fingers, and deep; had a wound on the back of the head. Leisi lived three weeks and two hours after that night. I got a view of the persons who broke into the house, but not such as to recognize them. I noticed that they had dark colored faces; not natural. I think I only saw two. They left three clubs and a cap; think I should know the cap if I could see it again. They did not say anything. Father called my name and that was the last he spoke. It is in Lee county, near three miles from West Point. The neighbors are Conduit, (lives south across the creek about 1/2 mile) Able, &c. I alarmed the neighbors; Jacob Able came first; Able's son went for the Doctor at West Point. Miller's name is John. On Thursday evening before, a man called at Leisi's; asked for cattle and drink of water; enquired the road for Fort Madison; said he had about 4 miles to go home; he came across the field from the creek to the back door and asked water, &c; said he was looking for oxen; described the yoke of oxen; the man was a tolerable young man; fresh looking face - don't particularly recollect his face; had palm leaf hat; was little higher than I am; did not tell his name; went off directly.

Cross Examined. -- We had been in the house two or three weeks from Ohio; Leisi and myself had been to Franklin that day and came home at 1/2 past 8; got supper and talked awhile and went to bed, think it was past 10 when we went to bed; when I awoke the struggle was going on in front part of room opposite our beds, I can't tell where the light was as I first awoke I saw the persons did not look natural; the light was put out almost directly. - The front door was on the north and another on the south of the house. - There was little light in the house when I awoke; when I stood at the table, the shot was fired that came near me; it passed though my shirt sleeve; don't know whether Leisi had one of the men down or not; Leisi fell in the corner after they had gone I put Leisi on the bed; he could not sit up; then I went out to father. He had some little life; when I was tending to Leisi the women got up. When I came to Mr. Miller I made a light. It is rather a quiet place where we lived, people seldom passerby. My wife was awake when I awoke; she tried to pull me back and prevent my getting out of bed she said '`there are murderers," "we will all be murdered." Saw no person about when I went out of the door.

Mrs. Risser. -- When I awoke, a man was standing at Leisi's bed; with a club, striking Leisi, another in the middle in front of our bed with a pistol; another taller man at father's bed with a club, striking him, he jumped up and directly the light was put out and I could not see more; there was much confusion; when the man struck father he jumped up and I heard him looking for his gun; he got it and I could not see much more; when I first awoke there was enough light for me to see, and I saw them all there; the one that stood by our bed, in the middle had a pistol in his hand; I have seen this man (Stephen Hodges) three times; once on the night of the murder standing at Leisi's bed; the second time was when he was brought to our house; and now is the third time. I am confident it is the same man.

Cross Examined. -- The light went out shortly after I awoke, when I awoke I saw that man standing near Leisi's bed; the light was near the middle of the room and shone upon his face so that I saw him; there were six persons in the room sitting together when they were brought to our house and when I saw him the second time. They all had quilt thrown over them; I recognized this larger one (Stephen Hodges) then, and I am pretty certain now this is the same man I saw standing at Leisi's bed on the night my father was killed. (Describes the situation of the beds and the person standing near it.) The candle was rather behind the little one who stood at our bed; I did not say next morning that I should know the one that stood by Leisi's bed, if I saw him again; I know him by his long hair, by his black eye, by the looks of his face and his height; I had a good view of him as he stood by the bed with a club; the light shown on his face, which was not blacked all over.

Dr. Holmes. -- About day break I went to the house of Leisi; found old man Miller lying out of doors, He was dead; probed the wound in the breast; could not touch the bottom of wound with a probe; I think the wound would have gone through the body of any ordinary person. Miller was a man of deep chest; found wound on his forehead and on probing it, found that skull grated on probe, from which I judge that it was slightly fractured. I think the death was caused by the stab in the breast. I think he bled considerably; there was much blood on the ground, on the door cheeks, and on the walls of house. I observed the gun, it was shattered and the stock held on by a wire; there was a cut on the ram rod, as if received from a knife in striking and fending off. The wounds on Leisi, two on the left portion of the temporal bone, like a letter V; thinks one was nearly or quite through the skull; the other was a slight one; there was a contusion on the forehead as if by a blow, there were two severe cuts, one on each shoulder blade, they were about five inches long and into the bone. There was another cut low down on the back of the neck; there was not a deep cut low down on the back of the neck; that was not a deep cut; he was also wounded in the chest by a ball from a gun. I probed the wound and found it went round and not through; I cut out the bullet from near the shoulder blade. There was the appearance on Miller of having been struck across the back twice, as if with a stick. I should judge from the shape and appearance of the wounds on Leisi's back that they were made by a large heavy knife. Cannot say whether the ball was shot by a smoothe bore or a rife barrel pistol; rather think it was not a smoothe bore, from the ball being slightly ragged -- a small piece of bone was taken from it afterwards. The wounds on the forehead of Leisi appeared to be made by stabs with point of a sharp knife, knife something like 3/4 of an inch broad. -- I am a practicing physician in West Point.

Jas. L. Estis (Sheriff of Lee County.) I was awakened about midnight at my office in West Point. Col. Patterson and myself got lost and got to Leisi's about day light: -- the others were there; I saw the old man Miller; dead lying at the door, and where the blood had run from him. The family was in such a state of grief that I could not get any thing satisfactory from their descriptive of the men who had done it. I sent the other persons home to West Point with directions to arose every body. I found others looking for foot tracks; we saw three foot tracks leading from the house; after I followed them about a mile; I found only 2 foot tracks and a bare foot horse track. Followed these tracks to Montrose; one was a peculiar track; after I followed them some time, I found no difficulty; I could tell whether it was in a run or in a walk by the boot making the full impression when in a run, that it did not make when he was walking, owing to the toe of the boot being turned up. Think it was ten or eleven miles from Miller's to Montrose; it was half a mile from Miller's when I first found these tracks, there were 3 at first, and several hundred yards beyond; a fresh horse track bare foot about five or six miles from Miller's I observed as if where the persons making the tracks had stopped and washed themselves was at the branch; this was in a retired place, no houses near and in a very deep hollow, I first found these tracks beyond the creek from the house of Miller, the road from the upper crossing of the creek at the Mill near Leisi's was in the direction of Montrose; thinks it four or five miles from Leisi's to where they left the main road and took a bye path to Montrose; I noticed this track made by the book particularly, thinking it might be the only clue to find out the murderers. I got so I could tell it among several others near a house where persons had passed along, same track I followed from Leisi's house; Mr. Jones was with me when I started on pursuit; we separated awhile, he taking the main road, and came together again; this was May 11th 1845. I saw the tracks of Stephen Hodges in Nauvoo and compared it with the tracks leading from Leisi's; I judged it was made by the same boot; he was there in custody: I had showed Col. Patterson the track I had traced to Montrose; I saw Stephen Hodges in custody of the officers in Nauvoo, as he was walking in the dust of the Street, I measured the tracks leading to Montrose but lost the measure; I did not measure the track in Nauvoo; saw his tracks in West Point: I think them the same. There are no public roads near Miller's house; it is in the woods, the place where I first found these tracks was the road from lower crossing of Devil creek where the road from upper crossing came in.

Cross Examined. -- Almost sunrise left Miller's I made inquiry for all strangers in the neighborhood, went first in an eastern direction, crossed at lower crossing at Devil creek went on till I came to road from upper crossing and found the tracks: I measured the track when I started - measured it several times after I started; did not measure the track in Nauvoo: nor the track in West Point; the family at Leisi's told me one was a small man and two large ones.

Peter Munjor. -- I have known the prisoners now on trial and also Thomas Brown; he is about 5 feet 9 inches high, brown hair; and has had the small pox, tolerably large mouth and very thick lips; tolerably well built; not very thick set, think his face is rather thin down his cheeks, between 19 or 22; (cloth cap shown witness.) I think this is the cap William Hodges used to wear, his brother younger than either of these used to wear it; I last saw William with this cap 2 or 3 weeks before the murder; it had no fore piece.

Cross Examined. -- I lived in Nauvoo for five or six years, the prisoners have lived around there 3 or 4 years; I knew them in Missouri I knew the cap by the fur around it and its having no forepiece; Jas. Hodges, (when he went to School and wore this cap) and myself, changed caps one afternoon last winter; I last saw Wm. wear it perhaps three weeks or a month before the murder was committed, I saw William at the Stone house in Nauvoo, I was there and shook hands with him, he had this cap on; I don't know the age of James Hodges; we went to school together, two winters did not stay at Nauvoo that I had several caps like this, that I could not tell apart; did not stay at Nauvoo that William's cap had a forepiece. I had known James Hodges four years, don't swear to his age.

Thomas Munjor. -- On Saturday 10th May last, I was on this side the river near Potter's field, mowing grass on the slough above Montrose; about 2 or 3 o'clock in the afternoon, prisoner's passed in a skill, Stephen was sitting in the stern, Wm. Was in the bow, and another man was rowing, the third one was in the grayish coat with long black hair, I thought it was Tom Brown, but would not swear to it positively, as I did not see his face; did not notice his cap. I have known Wm. & Steph. Hodges, two or three years in Nauvoo since I came from Missouri. Stephen Hodges asked if there was any chance for ducks up the slough: I told him I thought there was, they were in a skiff, where I saw them was about two miles from Nauvoo. I saw no guns in the skiff, they were about fifty yards from me. I think Wm. had on such a cap as this; it resembles the cap I have seen him wear, it had no forepiece.

Cross Examined. -- Having seem Wm. wear this cap about six months ago, several times, that I can's state particularly: I notice Wm. as he passed in the skiff, he was sitting in the bow high up and he looked like a monkey, with a cap on: I know Wm. Hodges has been down the river. I don't know how long, I have seen him since he returned at meeting, about the fore part of Spring; when we boated wood together last fall. Wm. T. Outhouse was with us and Mahlon Johnson, we boated from Castoe's Island four miles this side of the city down the river, I employed Wm. to work in boating wood for Morrison who as to pay him, Morrison lives in Nauvoo, think it was late in Summer, it was not early in the Summer, I did not notice that the cap was torn any, this boating was when snakes were in the wood, a man tried to throw one on Wm. Hodges.

Dr. Holmes recalled. -- I was at Miller's that morning about 9 o'clock, day broke before I got there, I noticed blood near the door, also saw a drop of blood on the sill of the gate, there was blood out doors on the east of the house; followed tracks out of the yard into the same tracks, coming up towards the house, about a rod from the other tracks, sometimes though I saw four tracks on the route coming up, I came to a bare foot horse track with the other tracks near the fence about 150 or 200 yards south east from the house leading to the creek near the mill, this was as far as I followed the tracks, returned to the house to attend to Leisi, afterwards showed the tracks to Risser.

Mrs. Miller's testimony. -- A. W. Carpenter, H. M. Sulmon and A. F. Bruning sworn as interpreter's -- My husband's name was John Miller. On the night of the tenth of May last three men came into our house I took hold of my husband to awaken him, before he was awake one of the men struck him, I saw a man at Leisi's bed and another standing in the middle of the room opposite Risser's bed with a pistol in his hand, did not see the light when they first came in, I saw it after the light was near the middle of the room; could not awake my husband at first, I was awake when they got in, I saw the light after they struck Leisi, they had clubs, my husband jumped up after he was struck and tried to get his gun, the man got him down and I could not see his face distinctly, I saw the other two better, this man (Stephen Hodges) was the one that stood at Leisi's bed; this one (Wm. Hodges) is the size and looks like the one that stood in the front of Risser's bed with a pistol, he looks just like him but he has no whiskers, as that the one had, he is about the height, their faces were not natural, think they were muddied over, I have seen the prisoner three times or four, first on the night when they broke into our house; the second was the day they were brought to our house to try if we should know them, the third time was last week in Burlington, when they were brought to our house, there were six men sitting in a row. I did not know the other four, when I lifted S. Hodges' hat from his face I was satisfied it was the man by Leise's bed, I did not look much at the four others, there was a cloth thrown over the lower parts of their bodies, I was out of the house when the prisoners were brought in: did not see them as they drove up to the door, I was not so certain of William Hodges as I was of Stephen Hodges, being one of the men, the smaller one had whiskers on, the light shone in their faces so that I could see them.

Cross Examined. --I had been asleep before the persons came into the house, but I was awake when they came in, the noise of their coming in awoke me. They brought a light with them, but did not see the light till after they came in, don't know whether it was put on the table, it was a weak light; saw the light after they had hit him the first time, they hit him twice before he got out of bed; Mr. Miler got up before Leisi got up before the light was put out. Risser was in bed, I saw the man that came to our bed first; I do not think I would know him, it was too dark at the time: it was a tall man, do not know what he had on his head, or what any of them had on their heads. There was one at each bed, don's know how far they stood apart, does not know whether the man at our bed was blacked. The one at Risser's bed was not a black man, his face was somewhat muddied over; do not know their clothes, do not know positively whether the one at Leisi's bed was blacked or not: there was much confusion and the whole did not last two minutes.

Jacob Able. -- I was the fist one of the neighbor's there, I found old man Miller at the door on the ground dead, Leisi in he house badly wounded, I found a cap in the house that had been left there. I know this is the cap: it was on the 10th May 1845 in Lee county.

Cross Examined. -- I got there about midnight, found the cap on the floor near the door; noticed the rents and marks of the cap, this is the same cap I found; it is ten times to Montrose; I also found three clubs at the house left by the murderers.

Armstrong Walker. -- I got there shortly after the affair, I noticed the bruise in the forehead of Miller and the wound in Miller's breast. I saw the cap directly after I got there, noticed it particularly and gave it to the coroner: Miller had a stab in the left breast nearly twelve inches deep, as far as the hilt would let the knife go, saw this cap or a full brother to it when I got to Leisi's I noticed the specks of blood on it, when I see now, noticed the same rent in it.

John Walker. -- I saw Stephen Hodges first last spring a year ago, also saw them in Ohio or Indiana, I saw William Hodges at my father's house on the Wednesday before for the robbery of Smith, he asked me if I had any conversation with Stephen, I told him I had -- also asked if I had had any conversation with Irvine Hodges; he then asked me how much money was lost at Smith's I said about fifty dollars, he said he did not think there was more the murder. There was a man with him he introduced by name of Wilson, he was about my height, not quite so heavy, he had long dark hair. I had a conversation with William, I was planting corn when they came, I did not know William when he made himself known, I was planting corn, he told my wife he would drop for me. I asked him if he knew who robbed Smith last Spring, he did not say. Then asked me if I knew what had become of the writ against Stephen for that robbery -- if there was one still out. It was about four o'clock on Wednesday, they staid all night: I saw them there about noon next day, he came to me in the field to talk privately and then said that before they catched Stephen he would kill some of them or die before he would be taken, this for the robbery of Smith, he asked me if I had any conversation with Stephen, I told him I had -- also asked if I had had any conversation with Irvine Hodges; he then asked me how much money was lost at Smith's I said about fifty dollars, he said he did not think there was more than twenty-five dollars got, he asked me then if there was not a man by the name of Carmike had sold out: I told him I thought not; he asked me if there was not a man lived near there had a double log house, whose son had gone east for money -- a thousand dollars -- I told him I did not now, he then asked if I could not recollect a place where a man lived in a double log house; he then said if I would find out where was any hard money and tell him, he would give me part. He then asked me if there was not a Dutchman making a farm on the prairie that had money: told him I did not know: that some one had borrowed twenty five dollars to my father; Meaman had borrowed money of Haws. Haws lived on the road from West Point to the mill; this was a mile from where Leisi lived: asked him who was present at the robbery of Smith: he said they were some more of our boys and took him to mean his brothers: he said Amos was a "damned first rate fellow," stayed around Nauvoo and laid low, and was not much suspicious: asked him how many there was connected with them: he said there was a good many: said when one got into a scrape they would help one get the another out: if they could not one way, they would another. My first acquaintance with them was when we first moved to this country. Wm. Hodges said if any of the company ever told any thing that he or the balance would kill him: if ever I told any of the conversation, they would kill me: said there was a better way to make money than by work, that they could make a living so and meant to have it, without work. They made known no business except to have a note on father, Wilson had on a sack coat of a grayish color, rather brown pantaloons and a fur cap; never saw Wm. Hodges with whiskers on: never saw him for eleven years, notice he came to our house that day: did not know him, thought I knew his countenance but did not know his name: he asked me about Jacob Dodge who was moving with us to this country, and what a devil he was: we live 2 or 3 miles from Leisi's father from Nauvoo -- up the creek.

Cross Examined. -- I live in the same house with my father; father was not at home when they came. As I started to the field I saw two men below the field, coming to the field, it was about 4 o'clock, the field was close to the house: think I was furrowing off, father came home about 10 o'clock at night; his horses had got away and broke his wagon, that detained him. -- Frank Osborn was there: I had two pet wolves, we were talking about the wolves, till mother came out and wanted me to go to work; I have generally known my father's accounts; knew who owes him, and who he owed; William never told me he had a note against my father, he told Frazer so that I heard him: Frazer was living there, he asked me if my father had any money, never knew of my father owing Hodges. Frazer was making some doors; if any one has a note against father he generally tells me of it and also who owes him: my father started to New York two weeks last Friday; I told my father next morning that Wm. Hodges had a note against him, he said he did not owe him any thing, I told him before he was up; same morning I heard Hodges tell Frazer about the note. William asked me if there was not a man there doing some breaking: did no say what he wanted with money; did not say he wanted to find out who had money to get the man to share the note on my father, he asked me to join the company and I refused: he said if I ever told about the gang, &c, he would take my life or have some one to kill me; I first told of it about two weeks ago to Dr. Sala and others: I told my mother, that they had threatened to kill me if I told of it; did not tell my mother what Wm. had told me. Dr. Sala and Mr. Barton came to me, and said the citizens thought I knew something about the murder, that I would not tell; said citizens would raise a mob and take me if I did not. Before they told me, I heard the same thing flying about the country -- the same report.

Re-examined. -- States that he was promised protection by those to whom he told what Wm. Hodges had told him and he was summoned here as a witness by Hodges defendants; don't know whether W. G. Walker is my father or not.

Jacob Risser again. -- The man left 3 clubs and a cap at Leisi's house (identifies the cap produced,) went with Dr. Holmes through the field and found three tracks going from the house angling across the field and another set of tracks coming to the house. We had planted the field Thursday and Friday before in corn, our track went straight along the rows, think the other tracks seen by Dr. H. and myself were not made by any person of our house. We generally came up to the house another way.

Mrs. Conduit. -- Wm. Hodges and another man, neither of whom I knew at the time, stayed at my house on Thursday night previous to the murder of Miller. My house is about a quarter of a mile south of Leisi's; in the morning the other man offered me a one dollar bill to pay me, and I had no change, the young man living at my house said perhaps Mr. Leisi could change it for him. They asked who lived at the Jim Stout place, I told them Mr. Leisi lived on a place bought it of Mr. Stout; the other man was taller than Hodges, he had on a gray sack coat. They left about sun rise in the morning, they came between sun down and dark the taller man had on a cap, and Wm. Hodges had on a hat, they aid they were hunting oxen; think they said they were mostly red oxen, don't recollect any other [particular] description given of them, said they were moving and lost them two miles this side of Madison towards West Point, said the oxen had stayed round a day or two and had then left they asked if the road they took led to Madison, I told them it did lead to Madison as I supposed, they named the country in Illinois they had moved from it was not Hancock, they said they were going to New Purchase or might stop this side of there, said they had a yoke of oxen at Haws' it was abut a mile from our house. They said Haws' had a large family of children, it must be Dutch Haws, I said the Haws I knew had no children. Haws is understood to have money, they said Leisi would not change it unless they would buy half the worth of it, and being a Dutchman he would not take paper money.

Cross Examined -- I recollect it was Thursday night when they were there, by my husband being away, my husband being away at Denmark, he got hurt on Thursday and came home the next morning, and told him of persons staying there. It was the taller one that spoke of moving, and of their losing the cattle, the tall one had long dark hair, was not above the ordinary height, some taller than Wm. Hodges said "we" and "they" when speaking of moving and hunting cattle, and seemed both to be interested in them.

A. K. Drollinger -- Saw Stephen Hodges on the Friday evening before the murder of John Miller; Thomas Brown was with him, near my house, it was on a by-road, it was seven miles from Leisi's, it was about half an hour by sun, met them in the road. Stephen Hodges first, Brown had gone to the sugar camp fence and was pointing his gun to kill a squirrel, Stephen inquired for two stray yoke of oxen, said one was a large red ox with a large bell on, that they had lost them just below Fort Madison, had strayed from some movers they were in company wit, who were then camped just below Devil Creek bridge, only described one big red ox, said they were calculating to stay all night with the movers at the bridge, passed by Stephen Hodges when Brown came up, he first inquired for one yoke of oxen yoked up; Brown had the gun, did not notice whether a rifle or shot gun; Brown had a large bowie knife in his pantaloons fastened to a piece of cloth around his neck. I took hold of it to pull it out, he jumped back drew it out and showed it to me, asked him what he did with it, said he had it for "greens." Brown inquired where I lived, pointed my house out to him; asked if I was married, told him I was, asked how they could get back to Madison, and not to go over the same ground; told them which way to go, they went a different way, went up the bluff where cattle do not range. Harvey Hart was with me, this was about two miles above Devil Creek bridge, they were coming from the bridge and going towards West Point, the last time I had seen them before Stephen was living in Nauvoo, and Thomas two miles above, about six months before, said they were in company with three movers who had come from Ohio. Brown stated they were going back to Devil Creek bridge that night to stay all night. Brown's hair is, I think black and he wears it tolerably long. he had on no vest, he had on a sack coat, it was mixed Ky. jeans, had on a fur cap; Stephen Hodges had on a cap just like this one (showing the cap found at Leisi's) think it had no fore piece, the fur was before: noticed the torn place, if there was a fore piece it was behind or even over his shoulder. Stephen was in his shirt sleeves and had his coat on his arm, knew Thomas Brown better than Wm. had not seen Wm. for a year.

Cross Examined. -- This was on Friday evening, had just returned from hearing Mr. Smith preach, am a Methodist, did not shake hands with Steph: Hodges, don't speak to him generally when we meet, and I was surprised they did not ask for lodging, as Thos. Brown and myself were old acquaintances, Hodges and myself had not been much acquainted, am certain I saw Steph. about two miles above the bridge on that evening: was surprised at meeting them at that place, was an old bye-road, did not ask them to stay all night nor did they ask to stay with me.

Doctor Knowles. -- Describes when prisoners were taken to Leisi's and their different positions in the room.

D. M. Repshire -- I am an officer in Nauvoo, town constable, arrested the prisoners near the limits of Nauvoo on May 13, 45: their brother Amos Hodges was arrested with them, a man by the name of Smith lived in the house, they made no opposition when I arrested them, with a process on Tuesday evening, the night before they had resisted being taken, they surrendered on Tuesday morning, and agreed to go to a Justice. On Tuesday evening they were arrested my me with a writ; they were taken before a, the trial not coming on then, moved them to the Mansion House; shortly after I took them to the Mansion house, on searching them I found no arms on them, found none on them afterwards, had agreed to remain until a proper writ could be made out to arrest them.

D. Davis. -- The prisoners were in my custody in Nauvoo, went to arrest them on Tuesday morning at the house of Amos Hodges in Nauvoo just before day, said they would not give themselves up until day break, after they were in Repshire's possession at the Mansion House, saw them searched on Tuesday evening, the bright pistol was taken from Stephen, the smaller pistol and bowie knife from Amos Hodges, the morning before saw Wm. Hodges with the smaller pistol.

Scott. -- The prisoners were in my custody on Tuesday night the 13th of May last, searched them and found a pistol, and bowie knife on Amos Hodges, and a pistol on Stephen Hodges, did not notice any blood on the scabbard of the bowie knife, they rather resisted being searched, we said we intended to use them as prisoners, and intended to search them thoroughly, they then submitted to be searched.

Col. Patterson. - Have the ball extracted from Leisi by Dr. Holmes, this is the same ball, on Sunday morning picked up the same at the house, it had the marks of blood upon it. Noticed the tracks on the road from Leisi's to Montrose, and the tracks made by Stephen Hodges in Nauvoo, they resembled each other in size and length, in Nauvoo the track was in the sand, the others were in the dust.

A. J. Stewart. -- Was present in Nauvoo when the prisoners and their brother were arrested, it was just after midnight, went to Amos Hodges on Monday night, they refused to be taken, they were taken next morning, they said that if they would wait till morning, they would meet us at any place we should mention and go into trial. I looked into the house and saw Amos had a knife and pistol, Stephen had a pistol and knife in his clothes, there was a light in the room, could not see William whether he had any weapons or not, they said they would shoot anyone who came in, they had weapons holding in their hands.

Cross-Examined. -- In the morning they gave themselves up. saw no arms when they surrendered, heard nothing said of any ordinance or city law, we had no process, they asked for process.

Re-Examined. -- There was at the house about forty persons or over, when they have themselves up in the morning, they gave themselves up to the company, and the captain of the police took charge of them, principally all the watch was called in, they had arms, a good many in Nauvoo go armed, don't know that we are obliged to carry arms.

Belknap. -- Saw Amos, Stephen, and William Hodges at Nauvoo in April last grinding two large bowie knifes, it was 3 or 4 weeks before Miller was murdered, it was at a shop where I worked.

Mrs. Leisi. -- I recollect the night the men broken into our house, they left 3 clubs and a cap; when I awoke the light was out; heard the firing and saw the flash, my father and husband struggled with the men: my husband had one of them down, as he got him out of the door he shot him: it was 10th May last. The cap does not belong to our house: my father was a minister of the Gospel, near 60 years old. He was from Germany 5 or 8 years.

(The Counsel here offered to give evidence, the dying declaration of Leisi, to his wife and his physicians, who the identify of the prisoners, and their being the persons who broke into the house of Leisi. The Court refused to permit the testimony to go to the Jury).

Evan Evans. -- I have seen Wm. Hodges, the prisoner; think he wore such a cap in Burlington 2 or 3 years ago, as this.


DEFENDANTS' TESTIMONY

Samuel Walton. -- I was in Nauvoo on Saturday night the 10th of May; I recollect it was Saturday the 10th because I stood on guard that night. I saw Wm. Hodges at Geo. Broffet's on Saturday night. At 9 o'clock I inquired for Geo. Broffet who was also going on watch; I was on watch from 9 [or, sic to?] 12 o'clock, I saw Amos, William, and Stephen Hodges together, coming down from main street, that night.

Cross Examined. -- Came from Maine on account of my belief; had been there 8 weeks; came the 13th of April; I m not of City Police; standing on watch was about the first job of work I got in Nauvoo. It was bright moon light night; moon set about 11 o'clock. It was quite light, I could see all along the river shore up and down for near half a watch, I stood all along short from lower stream mill; it took fifteen minutes to go from one end to the other end of my watch. I could see from lower mill half mile up river. We wee eyeing the river all the while, kept our eyes skinned for looking every way. I set down the day of the month so as to know when I commenced boarding at Moore's. My watch extended more than half way from the tower stream mill to upper stone house; it is pretty level from lower stream mill to upper steam mill. I did not know Wm. Hodges before that night; I saw Stephen Hodges and his two brothers on the common near the house. From dark till nine o'clock I was at Moore's waiting to know whether I was to go on the fore or the after part of the night. I went from Moore's to Broffet's hence to Manheart's, then on watch till 12 o'clock. I was right close to the three brothers Hodges on Saturday night; they passed quite near me, I am certain it was Amos, William and Stephen Hodges; they had caps on; I met them little past 8 o'clock; after that I went no the house, after that George Ellis came and told me they wanted me to watch, and I went to Broffet's It was Saturday night, there was no frost that night, too warm for frost. Don't know that I saw them (the Hodges) all three together again.

Sarah Ann Wood. -- I live in Nauvoo in Main Street. I know Stephen an William Hodges; first saw them in Nauvoo passing by our house on Main Street, this was about 4 months ago, I have been pretty well acquainted with them since that, I was at Amos Hodges on Saturday night May 10th. I saw William and Stephen at Amos Hodges, they were there when I got there; when I left there it was about 8 or 9 o'clock. I then went home; I don't remember anyone else there. It was in May; I recollect it, because it was talked about, it was the same night the murder was committed. I did not hear of them being taken till after I heard of the murder. (Here a cap is produced by defence and shown to witness.) I have seen William wear a cap like this one; I know James, younger brother than these, he had a cap and cap something like this.

Horace Braffett. --I was at William and Stephen Hodges on Saturday the 10th of May. I saw them the next day before I heard of the murder committed: saw William on Saturday night May 10th, at our house for a pail of water, ours was the nearest well, it was about 9 o'clock -- did not see Stephen after dark -- he got a bucket of water and went home. Saw Amos, William and Stephen coming down from Main Street about dusk on Saturday, William wore a straw hat that night. Don't think I ever saw him with this round crown hat on.

Cross Examined. -- I moved to Nauvoo a year ago this Spring, have known the Hodges abut two weeks before they were taken up. Never saw Thomas Brown. When I saw William he was always wearing a straw hat; the last time I saw William was on Saturday evening five or ten minutes after sun down, May 10th. Always saw William wear straw hat. Saw William at our house at 9 o'clock for water. Walton came down and asked father where he was going to stand; Walton came after dark a while, Walton had gone when William was there. William had on a palm or straw hat. Father has lived in Nauvoo a year, he lived in Iowa three years. Father came home at 12 o'clock. Amos Hodges asked me to come here as a witness, father lived 3/4 back of Montrose in Iowa 3 years, I lived there with him.

Mrs. Artemas Johnson. -- I first saw William and Stephen at Nauvoo about 6 weeks ago, The smallest one, William was at his brother's, Amos Hodges. I saw them at 9 o'clock at Amos Hodges, on Saturday May 10th, it was Saturday night before they were arrested, two women staid at house that night, Harriet St. John and Miss Hoskins.

Cross Examined -- I lived at Geo. W. Braffett's at that time, my husband is Artemas Johnson. He was at home that night, he was home when I went to Hodges, he is not in Nauvoo now. I don't know where he is, I had known where he was on the night of the murder and knew it would be said of him that he was concerned in the murder, as he lived on this side of the river. I got the Almanac and looked for the day of the month. It was about 9 o'clock when I went to Hodges', Wm. Hodges was at our house for water that evening, staid a few minutes, and Stephen fetched their water from my house. William always wore a wide rimmed hat, drab color, he only wore that hat, never saw him wear a cap or straw hat. When he came for water that night he had on this drab hat, staid about 15 minutes talking to the girls; this was not far from 8 o'clock. It was not very dark nor very light, just middling, don't recollect the moon. Braffet went away about dark and told us to tell Walton where he was, my husband was there the time, my husband left Nauvoo five weeks ago to night. Don't know where he is gone. I know Thomas Brown, have not seen him for some months. Walton came about 8 o'clock; middling warm don't recollect who got me to come up here as a witness, came of my own accord, no one requested me before this week, thought I would not see anyone injured when I could do them any good. Am a member of the Mormon Church. Thought my husband would be suspected of this murder because he lived this side of the river and was a Mormon, we lived at Montrose six months, six years ago this summer.

Jno. Court -- I live now at Amos Hodges in Nauvoo, know the prisoners; William since April last and Stephen since last summer. Stephen wore a short wool fur hat this spring, he had a cloth cap with fur around the edges, saw Wm. Hodges have the same cap this spring, he wore it with the fur piece inside.

Cross Examined. -- Heard William say his cap was at his brother's at Mechanicsville that he wore a hat; heard this when I went back to Nauvoo from the Territory, stayed at Amos Hodges all night.

Was acquainted with prisoners in N York, Amos was with him, a Mormon preacher; noticed the cap; that Stephen wore had a fore piece, William wore the same when I came back and Stephen a hat. Saw this (the clothe cap produced by) when it was brought back from Mechanicsville, noticed it particularly, notice caps to see what they are made of. Amos and Stephen were living in N. Y. last summer. Amos was preaching there three years ago. The cap was left at Mechanicsville the last of April or first of May.

[Emeline] Campbell. -- I am a sister of the defendants, have another brother James In Pittsburg, know of his having a cloth cap, made it myself, burned it up before I went away; it had no foe piece on it. James always wore it, William never wore it, Stephen wore this cap shown to me. (This was the cap produced by prisoners.)

Cross Examined. -- Amos Hodges' wife made this cap, (produced by defendants.) she made it for Stephen Hodges. I went to St. Louis in February and returned a week ago last Monday, this cap fitted Stephen very well; he never had a cloth cap without a fore piece, in February last I burned up the cloth James had without a fur piece; mother was present no one else. Mother is in Pittsburg with my father, Stephen usually wore this cap, it was his. It fit William very well, he used to wear it with the fore piece turned in sometimes turned behind. Mrs. Hodges made this before I made the one for James, don't know when Amos' wife made this cap for Stephen, I made the cloth cap about a year ago for James. I burned it up in February, 2 miles this side of Nauvoo on the Illinois side of the river, James left here in February for Pittsburg;I burnt it up before he went away, told him of it. Mrs. Hodges made this cap for Stephen. I was in Vicksburg till last of July or August. Amos, his wife and Stephen returned for 3 months, went in a wagon, some one returned with them, don't know who. (The cap which this witness swears was made for Stephen Hodges, by Amos Hodges' wife, is a cloth cap, resembling the one found at the scene of the murder, but it has a leather fore piece.)

Dr. E. Sala. -- Called on young John Walker in company with Barton, had a conversation with him the next day went down with Sheriff, P. H. Babcock, Estes and Barton. A statement made was taken down in writing. Have no means of knowing that Wm. G. Walker was concerned in the murder of Miller. He harbored these boys and that caused him to be suspected as they were of bad character, they were often about there. Leisi had his eyes bandaged and his head covered when they were brought in the room to see if he would recognize them.


PLAINTIFFS' REBUTTING TESTIMONY.

Hawkins Taylor. -- Describes the ground at Nauvoo on the Bank of the River; can't see from lower stream mill but a short distance up the river; the shore makes quite a curve.

Peter Munjar. -- I was with Wm. Hodges when under arrest in Nauvoo when it was spoken that a cap was found at the place of murder, he then said that he had burned his cap about two weeks before that, when he bought his new hat; he asked me if I was going to be a witness. I told him I was sent for as a witness to the cap that was found at Leisi's; that I should swear to it.

Cross Examined. -- This was on Tuesday evening after they were arrested; I went to the house where they were. The Justice sent for me to be a witness, I am not a Mormon, I lived at the time at Montrose, Iowa.

D. Davis. -- The prisoners were in my custody at Nauvoo; Wm. said he had herd there had been a cap found at the place where the murder was committed: said it was not his, that he could prove he had burned his cap when he bought the new hat he then said, this was about two weeks before; he told it at different times to other persons; this was the evening after he was arrested.

Morg. Evans. -- Saw Wm. Hodges three years ago; he then had a greyish woolen cap; about a year ago; he then had a greyish woolen cap; about a year ago I saw him in this town on the river bank, intoxicated; the gray one might have had a forepiece; It was about a year ago I saw him wear this cap; looked natural as soon s I saw him put it on.

J. R Fayerweather. -- Recollect Wm. Hodges living here two years ago, might have been a year ago; he wore such a cap as this is; strikes me he wore that cap when he carried the hod for Noble -- (this is the cap left at the house on the night of the murder.)

Stephen Markham. -- I have seen Wm. Hodges in Nauvoo wearing such a cap as this, don't know that it had a forepiece. Thomas Morgan's character for truth and veracity is bad, would not believe him on oath; from what the rumor is; have known him for four or five years.

Jesse Johnson. -- I knew Wm. Hodges when he lived in my neighborhood chopping wood, he had such a cap as this, it is as familiar to me as to my father would be; it was two or three years ago; the cap had no fore piece.

The testimony on both sides was here closed on Friday evening; the jury were again addressed by Mr. Stockton for the United States, in a speech about an hour and a half long. The Court then adjourned.

On Saturday morning Mr. Mills opened the defence for the prisoners in a speech of three hours. Mr. Hall followed in a speech of about the same length, and the case was summed up by Mr. Reid on the part of the prosecution in a speech of four hours.

The charge of the Judge to the jury at the conclusion, was clear, impartial and entirely satisfactory. It was now nine o'clock on Saturday night, when the jury retired to consider of their verdict. The Court directed them to be provided with refreshments and kept together until they should agree and return their verdict into Court. Without adjoining the Court took a recess and resolved to come in on Sunday morning and receive the verdict of the jury.

At an early hour on Sunday the Court room was crowded with anxious spectators eager to know if the jury had agreed, to hear the result. The Judge on taking his seat learned that the jury had agreed, and directed them together with the prisoners to be brought into Court. It was a solemn and affecting scene; the countenances of the jury evinced, as they took their seats, showed anxiety of mind, and their solemn sense of responsibility that had rested upon them. The prisoners took their seats in the bar apparently as unmoved and as unconcerned as they had been during the whole trial. The most breathless silence prevailed in the audience, as the jury replied to the inquiry of the Court, that they had agreed on their verdict; it was handed to the Clerk and read by him: "We the Jury, find William Hodges and Stephen Hodges GUILTY of murder." The feelings of the large crowd so long kept in painful suspense, and their anxiety kept at such a faithful stretch, could not how be restrained and many of them joined in clapping and other signs of approbation, order was soon restored by the Sheriff. The prisoners received the verdict of the Jury as unmoved as ever; hardly was a muscle or feature seen in move. the Court took a recess until three o'clock.


On re-assembling in the afternoon the large room of the Methodist Church was more crowded than ever. Every disposable place was occupied . The prisoners looked a little more concerned, but their emotion was hardly discernible. They were placed on the right hand of the Judge's seat. Judge Mason in a solemn and impressive voice, asked William Hodges if he had any thing further to say why the sentence of the la should not be pronounced upon him.

He replied: "I have nothing more to say except that I am innocent of the charge; I have had the benefit of a fair trial by a Jury of my country -- I have been found guilty and am prepared to submit myself to my fate." Stephen Hodges, in reply to the Court, spoke to the same effect, both asserted their entire innocence of the charge.

Judge Mason in deep and visible emotion, proceeded to deliver the following sentence:


SENTENCE OF THE COURT.

The trial on which your lives depended has now terminated, and to you that termination is fatal. After a full and fair investigation, that Jury to which you had entrusted your fate and which from the privilege extended to you, may almost be said to have been of your own selection, have declared you guilty of murder -- a murder too which in point of atrocity, may almost be said to be unparalleled in the annals of crime. With scarcely an apparent inducement for the commission of the most trivial of offences, you have been guilty of the greatest. You have not only with sacrilegious hand invaded the sacred fountains of life, but with an apparently deliberate purpose, dearly kin in malice to that of the arch fiend, you have entered the little Eden of love and contentment, with which a quiet and unoffending family were surrounding themselves -- cut off in the bloom and maturity of manhood two o their chief supports, drenching bloom and maturity of manhood two of their chief supports; drenched their very hearth stones with their life's blood, and brought desolation and unutterable woe into that house which for you would have been the abode of all the sacred charities and innocent pleasures of domestic life.

Now are the consequences of your crime confined to the immediate sufferers. Though lessened in intensity, they have extended to the whole community. A feeling of apprehension and insecurity has been communicated to every cottage throughout the county. When a blamelessness of life which creates no enmities - a mediocrity of condition which excites no envy -- when an almost entire absence of that motive which addresses itself to the sordid love of gain, cannot secure the slumberer form the assaults of the midnight assassin, well may the indweller of every cabin feel that anxiety and wide spread consternation which must go greatly augment the aggregate evils of human existence.

For all these evils, immediate and remote, the law holds you responsible, and is now about to apply all that there is of remedy within its reach. Blood for blood is its stern demand and never was that sanguinary requisition more righteous. -- Unable to restore the dead it accords thus much of vengeance to the living. Your lives too, are regarded as incompatible with the safety of society; and in the bloom of youth and health you are by the hands of your fellow mortals, to be consigned to the gallows and the grave. An example also seems to be called for to deter others from a repetition of like offences and you are about to be exhibited as an awful beacon to warn all others from a course like that which has resulted in your ruin. May your dying struggles, to which the eyes of thousands will soon be directed, turn back into the path of rectitude all those who are in any way disposed to pursue a course like that whose fatal termination you have so nearly reached.

You need not be reminded of the awful condition in which you are placed - of the blackness of that gulf which is not opening beneath your feet. Under the circumstances of the case you can only expect that the utmost rigors of the law will be enforced against you. The picture of the distress produced by your crime is too fresh in the memory of the community to permit the voice of pity to effect any thing in your behalf, and the horrid nature of your offence puts to silence those who are conscientiously opposed to the inhuman punishment you are about to suffer and makes them almost regard your case as a proper exception to the milder rule which they would fain substitute for that now about to be enforced. Look there for mercy only to Heaven. Expect pardon from none but your God. In the silence of your prison, with a speedy and cruel death staring you in the face, repent of your misdeeds and do all that still remains in you to atone for them, and mercy and pardon will not be sought for these sources in vain.

In the discharge of the solemn duty which is not imposed upon me, I feel almost overwhelmed with awe, as I become one of the instruments by which the lives of two human beings are about to be extinguished -- for life, how much soever it may have been perverted from its original purpose, is still an emanation from the Divinity. but as the irresponsible organ of that law which requires your death, I here pronounce its final sentence -- I direct that you William and Stephen Hodges, be taken from this place to the Jail of the county of Des Moines, there to remain until Tuesday, the 15th day of July next that on the day you be taken by the proper officer of this County to some convenient [place] within the same, an there between the hours of 10 o'clock A. M. and 4 o'clock P. M. that you be hung by the neck until you are dead; and may God have mercy upon you.


Note 1: Emeline Hodges was born Oct. 10, 1826, in Bath, Steuben Co., NY. Prior to 1845 she married a Mr. Campbell. On Oct. [Dec.?] 6, 1846 Emeline married Elder Elijah Banta, in Lancaster Co., PA. Banta was first a follower of George M. Hinkle; then of Sidney Rigdon, and later became a noted RLDS Elder and a Counselor to that church's Presiding Bishop. Emeline was the daughter of Rigdonites Curtis Hodges and Lucy Clark Hodges; also she was the sister of Sarah Hodges Wait Luckey (1809-1895) and the noted co-editor of the "Joseph Smith Bible," Marrietta Hodges Faulconer Walker (1834-1930). Emeline died May 14, 1876, in Sandwich, DeKalb Co., IL. -- see Saints' Herald, June 1, 1876, p. 350 and James R. Brigham, "Elijah Banta...," John Whitmer Historical Association Journal XII, 1992, pp. 52-65.

Note 2: Curtis Hodges (c. 1780-c. 1846) and Lucy Clark (1790-1867) were originally from the Bennington, VT area -- he was probably the son of Curtis and Sybil Hodges of Onondaga Co., NY. One of Curtis and Lucy's daughters was born at Pompey, Onondaga Co., in 1809. The family resided at Rochester, NY, c. 1813-1815. A Curtis Hodges, Jr. lived at Painted Post, Steuben Co., NY in 1820 and probably also for a while at nearby Elmira, Chemung Co., NY. As noted above, another of their daughters was born in at Bath, Steuben Co., in 1826. Curtis and some of his family were evidently baptized Mormons in Gerrard twp., Erie Co., PA by Elder Zebedee Coltrin late in 1832. By mid-1833 the family had moved to the Painesville, Geauga Co., Ohio area, where another daughter was born in 1834 (at Willoughby). Probably the Curtis Hodges family were at Far West and then at Nauvoo before the parents followed Sidney Rigdon back to Pittsburgh in late 1844 or early 1845. Curtis Hodges, Sr. was ordained a high priest at the April 1845 Rigdon conference in Pittsburgh and his son Curtis served on a mission for Rigdon in western New York during the fall of that year (See the Pittsburgh Messenger & Advocate of Nov. 1845, p. 292). The older Curtis apparently died at Pittsburgh sometime after April 1846 (when he and his son James attended the semi-annual Rigdonite conference there).


 



Vol. 8.                                Burlington, Iowa, June 28, 1845.                              No. 51.



A Brother of the Murderers Murdered.

Irvine Hodges, who was here in attendance last week at the trial of his brothers, Stephen and William, left for Nauvoo on Monday morning last, and on the night of the same day was murdered in the latter place.

Of the fact of the murder there seems to be no question, but the circumstances attending it are not so well understood. Conflicting reports are in circulation on this point. The story told us is, that upon arriving at home Hodges was approached, by two or three persons and solicited to engage in the contemplated robbery of a store -- that H. consented, or seemed to consent -- that, in the meantime, he advised the owner of the store of the mediated robbery, and a guard was placed in the house -- that, upon ascertaining their intentions were discovered, the robbers, as is supposed, sought vengeance of H. for their betrayal, and killed him. This however, is not a probable tale. The supposition of many is that he was murdered by a gang of scoundrels to which he and his brothers are supposed to have belonged, to prevent disclosures which it was feared the execution of Stephen and William might provoke. He was knocked down with a club or bludgeon, and stabbed, as is reported, with his own bowie knife. Upon being interrogated, before he expired, as to the author of the deed, the only answer that could be got from him was that it was done by one he had considered his best friend.

We shall probably be able to give fuller and more authentic details in our next number. Truly, this murder of the poor old German Minister has been a tragical affair. Miller, stabbed to the heart, and sent without a moment's warning into the presence of his Maker -- Leisa, shot and mangled, permitted to live for a brief period, as if to augment his sufferings, and then doomed to die -- the murderers, brothers, arrested, tried, convicted, and only awaiting the lapse of a few days to expiate their crime on the gallows -- and now, produced by causes doubtless originating in the first shedding of blood, the violent death of a third brother, from the blows of the assassin. Bloody narrative at the recital of which humanity recoils! Let all beware of the first step in crime.



Trial, Conviction and Sentence of the Hodges,

The trial of William and Stephen Hodges arraigned for the murder of John Miller, in Lee county, on the 10th of last month resulted in a verdict of guilty against both. The trial occupied the whole week, the case not being submitted to the jury till about nine o'clock on Saturday night. The testimony, even in an abridged shape is too voluminous for our columns, and we shall not therefore attempt to publish it. The fact that a very large number of our readers were present at the trial and heard the evidence detailed renders such a publication less necessary. It is conceded on all hands that the proof against the prisoners was such as to justify the verdict. If not positive it was as nearly o as can well be imagined. Not a doubt is entertained by any of the justness of the verdict, or the guilt of the wretched men now under sentence of death.

The deportment of the Hodges throughout the trial, was marked by a singular manifestation of apparent indifference as to the result. A stranger, unacquainted with the circumstances, never would have dreamt, judging from their looks and conduct, that they were on their trial for life and death. Indeed, when the verdict of "guilty" was rendered by the jury, they received it without the slightest perceptible change of countenance, and as though they would have been disappointed at any other result. And even while listening to the touching and melting sentence ofthe Judge, dooming them to the felon's death, they manifested but little sensibility. Both avowed their innocence, and expressed readiness to meet their fate. The younger brother, Stephen, it is apparent, however, is the master spirit in daring and crime, and the foregoing remarks relative to the bearing of both throughout the trial will apply with more force to him than to William.

The jury, we understand had but little difficulty in agreeing upon their verdict. The verdict was delivered on Sunday morning in the presence of an immense concourse of spectators. Great interest was manifested on the trial during its progress, and the rush was general to learn the result.

The prosecution was conducted by Mr. Stockton, Prosecuting Attorney, and Mr. Reid, of Fort Madison. Messrs. Hall and Mills conducted the defense.

The execution, it will be seen, is to take place on Tuesday the 15th of July -- two weeks from next Tuesday.

The following is a copy of the sentence pronounced by Judge Mason. It is appropriate and very beautiful, and was delivered with much feeling and embarrassment.


Sentence of the Court.

The trial on which your lives depended has not terminated, and to you that termination is fatal. After a full and fail investigation, that Jury which you had entrusted your fate, and which from the privileges extended to you, may almost be said to have been of your own selection, have declared you guilty of murder - a murder to which in point of atrocity, may almost be said to be unparalleled in the annals of crime. With scarcely an apparent inducement for the commission of the most trivial of offences; you have been guilty of the greatest. You have not only with sacrilegious hand invaded the sacred fountains of life, but with an apparently deliberate purpose, nearly akin in malice to that of the arch fiend, you have entered the little Eden of love and contentment, with which a quiet and unoffending family were surrounding themselves -- cut off in the bloom and maturity of man hood two of their chief supports; drenching their very hearth stone with their life's blood, and brought desolation and unutterable woe into that house which but for you would have been the abode of all the sacred charities and innocent pleasures of domestic life!

Nor are consequences of your crime confined to the immediate suffers. -- Though lesser in intensity, they have extended to the whole community. A feeling of apprehension and insecurity has been committed to every cottage throughout the country. When a blameliness of life which creates no enmities - a medircracy [sic] of condition which excites no envy -- when an almost entire absence of that motive which addresses itself to the sordid love of gain, cannot secure the slumberer from the assaults of the midnight assassin, well may the indweller of every cabin feel the anxiety and side spread consternation which must so greatly augment the aggregate evils of human existence.

For all these evils, immediate and remote, the law holds you responsible, and is now about to apply all that there is of remedy within its reach. Blood for blood is its stern demand, and never was that sanguinary requisition more righteous. Unable to restore the dead, it accords thus touch of vengeance to the living. Your lives too, are regarded as incompatible with the safety of society; and in the bloom of youth and health you are by the hands of your fellow mortals, to be consigned to the gallows and the grave. An example also screams to be called for to deter others from a repetition of like offences, and you are about to be exhibited as an awful beacon to warn all others from a course like that which has resulted in your ruin. May your dying struggles, to which the eyes of thousands will soon be directed turn back into the path of rectitude all those who are in any way disposed to pursue a course like that whole fatal termination you have so nearly reached.

You need not be reminded of the awful condition in which you are now placed - of the blackness of that gulf which is now opening beneath your feet. Under the circumstances of the case you can only expect that the utmost rigors of the law will be enforced against you. The picture of the distress produced by your crime is so fresh in the memory of the community to permit the voice of pity to effect any thing in your behalf, and the horrid nature of your offence puts to silence those who are conscientiously opposed to the inhuman punishment you are about to suffer, and makes them almost regard your case as a proper exception to the milder rule which they would fain substitute for that now about to be enforced. Look therefore for mercy only to Heaven. Expect pardon from none but your God. In the silence of your prison, with a speedy and cruel death staring you in the face, repent of your misdeeds and do all that still remains in you to atone for them, and mercy and pardon will not be sought from these sources in vain.

In the discharge of the solemn duty which is now imposed upon me, I feel almost overwhelmed with awe, as I become one of the instruments by which the lives of two human beings are about to be extinguished - for life, how much soever it may have been perverted from its original purpose, is still an emanation from the Divinity. But as the irresponsible organ of that law which requires your death, I here pronounce its final sentence - I direct that you William Hodges and Stephen Hodges, be taken from this place to the Jail of the County of Des Moines, there to remain until Tuesday, the l5th of July next, that on that day you be taken by the proper officers of this County to some convenient place wherein the same and there between the hours of 10 o'clock A. M. and 4 o'clock P. M. that you be hung by the neck until you are dead; and may God have mercy upon you.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 


LEE  COUNTY  DEMOCRAT.

Vol. IV. - No. 50.                      Fort Madison, Iowa, June 28, 1845.                    Whole No. 206.



MURDER  IN  NAUVOO.

A man named Irvine Hodges, brother to the men now under sentence of Death, was stabbed in Nauvoo on Monday evening last, and died in about half an hour.

There is considerable mystery connected with the murder. The murdered man was taken to the house of Brigham Young, the Mormon elder, where he was surrounded by Mormons who declared that he did not know who stabbed him -- report, however says he declared he knew the assassin and that he was a friend. It is also said that Hodges had threatened to make some awkward disclosures respecting Mormonism if the Mormons did not rescue his brothers. Report further says that W. Smith, brother to the canonized Joe, had prophesied that the deceased would never reach his home (he lived some distance from Nauvoo, and was on his way home from his brothers trial when he was stabbed,) but would be murdered by the outraged Iowans.

We know nothing of the truth of these reports and give them for just what they are worth.

One of the Hodges attempted to destroy himself on Tuesday last by strangulation. The jailer hearing a noise in his cell went to ascertain the cause when he discovered the prisoner endeavoring to strangle himself by clasping his throat with his hand. Means were of course taken to prevent him.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



Vol. 4.                                Davenport, Iowa, July 3, 1845.                              No. 45.



TRIAL  OF  THE  SMITH  MURDERERS.

The trial of the persons indicted for the murder of Hyrum Smith commenced on the 24th ult. Nothing was done in the case. A circumstance happened, however, which filled the community with gloom. An altercation occurred between the sheriff, Minor R. Deming and Dr. S. Marshal, which resulted in the death of the latter by a pistol shot fired by the sheriff. Dr. Marshal is spoken of as distinguished for his peaceable disposition and correct deportment in all his intercourse with his fellow men. He had filled some of the highest offices of the county.



MURDER  IN  NAUVOO.

On Monday night, 23d ult., a man by the name of Hodges, brother of those sentenced to be hung at Burlington on the 15th inst., was stabbed in Nauvoo and died in a few hours. It is stated that the victim had just returned back from Burlington where he had been to testify on behalf of his brothers; and that he was murdered to prevent his making disclosures, which he had said to have threatened.



MORMONISM.

The aspects of Mormonism are as varied as the weather and its nature as many hued as the tints of the rainbow. There is Joe Smith Mormonism and Rigdon Mormonism, and last of all Hinkle Mormonism. There are disinterested, self-sacrificing and sincere Mormons, and there are interested, selfish and hypocritical Mormons. Of the latter class are all of the small body distinguished as leaders and not a few of the others. The sincere ones are short-sighted individuals who cannot elevate their vision above the mole hill of truth in their path to behold the mountain of sin and hypocrisy beyond. They are naturally unsophisticated and greedily swallow the hook in their ignorance for the bait. Molecules of truth added to mountains of error compose Mormonism. As the former is blended with the latter the various shades of character are produced. But perhaps we are treating this subject in a style too figurative; we will at once proceed to testimony so strong as to sustain our remarks and yet so weak that the shadow of a doubt cannot hang upon it.

Imprimis, Joe Smith and his puerile imitators can lay no claim to originality. The same impostures with equal success have been made in various ages of the world. More than twenty pretended Messiahs have appeared upon the stage of life since the true one suffered. These gained sufficient notoriety to live upon the page of history whilst hosts of smaller ones have glittered with ephemeral popularity for a brief time, then character and bones rotted together in one common grave. The twelfth century alone produced no less than ten of these first mentioned arch impostors. They all pretended, as did Smith, and as does his weak imitators, to receive revelations and to prophecy, and they found dupes almost innumerable to place confidence in their pious pretensions. From the birth of Christ to the present day, men have been found wicked enough to attempt such vile impostures and others sufficiently weak-minded to embrace them. The history of these fanaticisms presents the strangest, to all appearances the most fabulous, and at the same time the darkest page in the history of mankind. One would suppose in reading it that certainly in this advanced stage of the world in an age so enlightened, that if such vile impostors were to arise they would find few or no followers....

It is not our intention to allude to any of the absurdities advocated by the various branches of Mormonism -- as we have already extended this article to an unusual length -- but merely to refer to some of the proceedings of the Mormon Convention which recently occurred in Pittsburg, at which time the Rigdon branch of that city and the Hinkle branchlet in this county moved all asperities and united their forces.

We quote from the Messenger and Advocate, the organ of the Mormon Society in Pittsburg. After the usual religious exercises President Rigdon stated that he had an unceasing desire to have the matter forever put at rest whether God would accept their work. For that purpose, he had that morning set apart brethren and consecrated them to God. During the time of prayer, he states there appears over our heads, in the room a ray of light forming a hollow square, inside of which, stood a company of heavenly messengers, each with a banner in his hand, with their eyes looking downward upon us, their countenances expressive of the deep interest they felt in what was then passing on the earth; there also appeared heavenly messengers on horseback with crowns upon their heads, and plumes floating in the air, dressed in glorious attire, until like Elisha, we cried in our hearts, "the chariots of Israel, and the horsemen thereof;" even my little son of fourteen years of age saw the vision, an