FOR  THE  COURANT.

THE  ABORIGINALS  OF  AMERICA.

Some peculiar characteristics of the original inhabitants of this country, entitle them to respectful consideration. However rude and uncultivated, in their customs and manners, in the estimation of the pilished nations of the world; they speak of the "GREAT SPIRIT," in terms of reverance and admiration; and apparently with as much sincerity as professing christians. They have been erroneously classed with pagan nations, and on this account it has been a common conclusion, that Divine Providence was directing their anihilation, to make room for the extension of the gospel. But, no man in sober reason can suppose that the Great Spirit, whom they worship, and who we professedly worship, has approved of the means and the measures by which the have been so exterminated; or that he now approves of those which are prospective, as relates to soem portion of them....

I believe that they are the descendants of Abraham, and of the ten tribes of Israel; of whom not a vestige of history can be found, since the time of Hezekiah, king in Jerusalem; and of Hoshea, king in Samaria. They were then, 726 years before the Christian era, carried captive to Assyria, by Shalmaneser. (see 2 Kings xviii. 9.) The long period of 2556 years has elapsed, and no allusion to them can be found in hostory, either sacred or profane. If they are, as I suppose, the lost, or dispersed ten tribes of Israel, their persevering adherence to the worship of the ever living God, and the vision as relating to them, as stated in 2 Esdras xiii. 39-47, corroborate each other. I will quote the passage, as worthy of serious consideration.

"And whereas thou sawest that he gathered another peaceable multitude unto him; those are the ten tribes, which were carried away prisoners out of their own land in the time of Osea the king, whom Salmanasar the king of Assyria led away captive, and he carried them over the waters, and so came they into another land. But they took this counsel among themselves, that they would leave the multitude of the heathen, and go forth into a further country, where never mankind dwelt; that they might there keep their statutes, which they never kept in their own land. And they entered into Euphrates by the narrow places of the river. For the most High then shewed signs for them, and held still the flood, till they were passed over. For through that country there was a great way to go, namely, of a year and a half: and the same region is called Arzareth. Then dwelt they there until the latter time, and now when they shall begin to come, the Highest shall stay the springs of the stream again, that they may go through: therefore sawest thou the multitude with peace."

The ten tribes that revolted in the time of Rehoboam, included the tribe of Levi, therefore the order of the priesthood was with them. As suffering of any kind, leads the mind to search its cause, they looked back to the once prosperous condition of their nation, under the protectig care of the God of their fathers; and concluded that a departure from his statutes, had been the cause of their adversity. I believe that contrition and humble penitence induced him again to interpose; and by separating them from every trace of idolatry, in order to secure to himself their lasting homage, they are at this time, his worshippers. That in their distress they cried unto him, and he heard their cry; and mercifully offered to guide, protect, and sustain them through a long journey, to a land where no man ever dwelt, perhaps of a "year and a half;" from Assyria to Kamskatka, the northeast part of Asia, through a vast uninhabited country; and from thence to the northwest part of this continent. I say uninhabited, because it is probable that the Assyrian empire did not extend far, northward and eastward -- and that other settlements were not much farther. Rome was first settled about that time, but history furnishes no knowledge of Russia, until 1200 years afterwards. If we believe the accounts of the miraculous deliverance of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage; their preservation in the wilderness forty years; and their quiet settlement of Canaan; it cannot exceed the limits of our credulity to suppose that they were in a similar manner conducted through the wilderness of what is now Turkey in Asia, and Russia; and through the cold region between the two continents.

We will now suppose their arrival at the northwestern extremity of this continent, 2500 years since, and their primary objects to be the true worship of Jehovah -- according to their pronunciation YOHEWAH; and the attainments of comfortable subsistence, without implements for agriculture, or any occasion for them, the forests and the waters furnishing ample supply of food and clothing. They could have no idea of any boundary except the Pacific Ocean, and centuries probably passed away before they discovered the Atlantic. But as no human being impeded their progress, they divided and subdivided into tribes, and as it suited their mode of life, placed themselves in new locations. Should we not judge, that according to this hypothesis, it would require about 2500 years to people this immense continent of North and South America, with all its contiguous Islands?

The diversity of language may be ascribed to the remote situations of the different tribes -- possibly for 2000 years. But, at least some of them, some part of the ancient Hebrew has been preserved, especially the terms appropriate to the Deity. I state this from investigations made by others -- and they have also ceremonies of various kinds, analogous to those of the ancient Israelites. This subject has interested the attention of many respectable men, who have recorded it as their opinion, that the Indians are of Hebrew lineage.

With reference to predominant dispositions, it may be said, they are indolent; so has been every people and nation, where the comforts and necessaries of life could be had without application to labour. Thei wants are few, and when these are supplied, they are as happy as those who want much, and gain much. They are reputed as barbarous in the extreme, and the prejudice of education has fixed the impression deeply in the minds of the people: stories have been handed down from generation to generation, as proof of their savage nature; while their tales of sorrow and suffering, seldom reach the white man's heart. I have no doubt that if a true history of them, prior to the discovery of Columbus, should ever be found, it would be apparent that they lived more harmoniously than even professing christians. When writing to the King and Queen of Spain, he said, "There is not a better people in the world, than these natives of America; more affectionate, affavle, or mild."...

The volume by Ethan Smith, in 1825, on "The view of the Hebrews, or the tribes of Israel in America," contains a mass of evidence, well worthy of perusal.


Notes: (forthcoming)

EDITORIAL.

MAJ.  NOAH  AND  THE  INDIANS.

Maj. Noah, of the N. York Enquirer, &c. is still exhibiting precious specimens of his logic on the Indian question. A serious attempt to refute such a writer, would be a waste, both of time and paper. But as the Major is said to exert considerable influence, it may not be an uninstructive task to examine his productions, occasionally, for the purpose of forming a correct estimate of the intellectual and moral characteristics of that portion of the community, who are capable of being influenced by them, and inquiring into the causes of such a state of the community, with a view to their removal.

The Indians, according to Maj. Noah, acquired their possessions by expelling, or extermining the ancient possessors. In consequence of this crime of the forefathers of the present race of Indians, he seems to think that we have a right to commit the same crime, by expelling or extermining them. From what historical documents the Major has ascertained his facts, he has not told us. Nor in what school he has learned his ethics and his logic.

He seems to intimate that the "children of Christian parents," have a right to convert the "howling wilderness" of the "savages" into "gardens, meadows, and harvest fields." Christians will not thank a Jew for insinuating that an argument of this nature can influence them. They will not credit his sincerity, when they see that, in the same article, he betrays his vexation that the Indians have been christianized.

He insinuates that those who are in favor of rendering justice to the red men, prefer red men to white!

The southern tribes, it is said, have "lately attempted to erect an independent government," &c. Public documents prove that our government has, from the beginning, recognized them as "independent governments." In one of the next sentences, the writer himself calls the Cherokee nation, "a foreign and independent government," and gives this as a reason why it cannot be allowed to establish itself there. A stranger would infer from this, that the Cherokees -- "a foreign and independent government," had "lately" removed into "the limits of the State of Georgia."

The Cherokees, we are told, must not remain where they are, because they would be exposed to the "arrogance of conscious strength and superiority" which, (the writer would have us believe,) is an attribute "natural" to their white neighbors. -- Ergo. That same "arrogance of conscious strength and superiority" has a perfect right to "expel them by force of arms," as the only means of securing them from the said "arrogance," &c. &c.

The civilization of the Cherokees is disproved by our Solomon, on the ground that they have "lately rejected the offer of a code of laws adopted by a civilized people, their nearest neighbors;" a code, kindly offering to exempt them from all the benefits of law, denying them even the capacity of acting as witnesses. What but barbarian ignorance could have prevented the acceptance of such a kind offer?

The Major "despises that canting affectation of philanthropy which neglects its home and its country, to go in search of objects for its exercise in another hemisphere." For this reason, particularly, he condemns those among us, who "neglect their home and country, and go in search of objects of philanthropy," "within the limits of the State of Georgia," "in another hemisphere."

He calls the Cherokees "a community of savages." He characterizes our civilized population as "a people who read and write." -- Yet reading and writing, it would seem, and even "schools" and printing presses, prove nothing in favor of the civilization of the Cherokees.

Reading and writing, and schools, and printing, have been introduced among the Cherokees. Those who introduced them, are accused, by Major Noah, of aiming at a "union of Church and State." From this we learn that reading, and writing, and schools, and printing, are deadly enemies of religious liberty! And why should not this be believed? It has long since been ascertained, by the Major, and Miss Fanny Wright, and Mr. Ex-Senator Johnson, that even the civil institution of the Sabbath itself, which furnishes the foundation of all our other civil institutions, without which there exists no free nation under heaven, and without which, neither reading, nor writing, nor schools, nor printing, could be of any permanent and efficient benefit to the dependant, laboring poor -- an institution, in the absence of which, religious liberty was never dreamed of, is, in fact, hostile to religious liberty. Why then should we not, at once, demolish our printing presses, and schools and colleges, blot out our Sabbaths, burn our Bibles, renounce the ties of matrimony, break up our families, make property common plunder, and roam at large, with the brutes, in a "state of nature?"

We return to the point from whence we commenced this article. The only use of dissecting such licentious sophistry, is to catch a glimpse of the stomachs that can digest it -- to mark the disease -- and apply the remedy. It is the mania of alcohol that befools this people. The Temperance Reformation, if it succeeds, will settle every question of political ethics, now before the nation. Sober statesmen, and sober citizens can be reasoned with. No writer, fifty years ago, would have risqued his popularity, by insulting the sovereign people with such self-contradictory logic, as passes currently now, both from the press, and in the Senate. -- G.


Notes: (forthcoming)

RHODE  ISLAND  AMERICAN,  STATESMAN
AND  PROVIDENCE  GAZETTE.
ns Vol. I.                           Providence, R.I., Friday,  April 16, 1830.                           No. 87.

The following singular evidence of human credulity or knavery, appears in the New York Rochester Republican:

BLASPHEMY -- "BOOK OF MORMON,"
alais THE GOLDEN BIBLE.

(the "Preface" from Rochester paper follows)

Notes: (forthcoming)

From the United States Gazette.

A work has recently been published in the western part of the State of New York, entitled Book of Mormon, or the Golden Bible. The author is Joseph Smith, jun. -- The work contains about 600 pages, and is divided into the books of Mormon, of Ether and of Helaman. The Rochester Daily Advertiser contains the preface, and two letters, signed by eleven individuals, setting for the excellence of the work and the existence of the original "plates" of gold, on which the contents of the volume were engraved, in a language which the translator was taught by inspiration. It seems one book, that of Lehi, was translated and stolen -- the translator was commanded never again to translate the same over. We subjoin, with some hesitency, one of the certificates, which smacks pretty strongly of what once would have been called blasphemy.

(testimony of 3 witnesses from Rochester paper follows)

Notes: (forthcoming)

FANATICISM. -- A work of 600 pages has recently been published at Rochester, N. Y. by "Joseph Smith, Jr. author and Proprietor." entitled "The Book of Mormon or the Golden Bible" which the Rochester Daily Advertiser pronounces "one of the vilest impositions ever practised -- an evidence of fraud, blasphemy and credulity, shocking to the Christian and the moralist." The "author and proprietor," it is said, by some hocus pocus, acquired such an influence over a wealthy farmer of Wayne county, N. Y. that the latter paid for the printing and binding [of] 5000 copies of the blasphemous work. -- The volume is divided into the books of Nephi, of [Jacob], of Mosiah, of Alma, of Mormon, of Ether and of Halaman. The paper above referred to, publishes the subjoined "Preface," and "testimonial," from which the style of the work may be conjectured: --

(view original text from Rochester article)

Another certificate declares that the plates said to be found in Manchester, Ontario county, N. Y. had the appearance of gold, and bore the marks of ancient and curious workmanship. -- Boston Bul.


Note: This article apparently appeared in the Boston Evening Bulletin near the end of May, 1830. It is really quite remarkable that the April 2nd Rochester Daily Advertiser news report traveled so far, so quickly. By March 31st news of the forthcoming Mormon book had already reached New York City, though actual reviews of its contents were probably not published there for several weeks after.

(From the Wayne County Republican.)

NEW BIBLE. -- A fellow by the name of Joseph Smith, who resides in the upper part of Susquehanna county, has been, for the last two years we are told, employed in dictating, as he says, by inspiration, a new Bible. He pretended that he had been entrusted by God with a golden bible which had been always hidden from the world. Smith would put his face into a hat in which he had a white stone, and pretend to read from it, while his coadjutor transcribed. The book purports to give an account of the "ten tribes," and strange as it may seem, there are some who have full faith in his divine commission. -- The book, it seems is now published.


Notes: (forthcoming)

(From the Wayne County Republican.)

NEW BIBLE. -- A fellow by the name of Joseph Smith, who resides in the upper part of Susquehanna county, has been, for the last two years we are told, employed in dictating, as he says, by inspiration, a new Bible. He pretended that he had been entrusted by God with a golden bible which had been always hidden from the world. -- Smith would put his face into a hat in which he had a white stone, and pretend to read from it, while his coadjutor transcribed. -- The book purports to give an account of the "ten tribes" and strange as it may seem, there are some who have full faith in his divine commission. The book, it seems is now published. We extract the following from the Rochester Republican.

"BLASPHEMY. -- 'Book of Mormon' alias The Goldon Bible. -- The 'Book of Mormon' has been placed in our hands. A viler imposition was never practised. It is an evidence of fraud, blasphemy, and credulity, shocking to the Christian and moralist. The author and proprietor is one Joseph Smith, jr. a fellow who, by some hocus pocus, acquired such an influence over a wealthy farmer of Wayne county, that the latter mortgaged his farm for $3000, which he paid for printing and binding 5000 copies of this blasphemous work. The volume consists of about 600 pages, and is divided into books of Nephi, of Jacob, of Mosiah, of Alma, of Mormon, of Ether, and of Helaman. -- 'copy right secured.'


Notes: (forthcoming)

FOR THE MESSENGER.

THE  BOOK  OF  MORMON.

Mr. Editor, -- I have lately spent between two and three days examining a book of an extraordinary character, bearing the above title, which was was lately brought from the state of New York, and is much talked of in some parts of the county of Windham, where it is circulating. I feel inclined to give a short account of it to such of your readers, as may not have opportunity of seeing it. It was printed at Palmyra, contains near six hundred pages, and claims to be divine inspiration, or written by men who had frequent interviews with God & angels. It is stated to have been written in the Egyptian language, on plates of gold, and to have been found in the town of Manchester, and county of Ontario, in a box of stones well cemented together, and buried in the earth, where it must have lain, according to things said in the book ever since A.D. 420. Joseph Smith Jr. found it, and he translated it, not from any knowledge of the language on the plates, but by means of two stones or glasses found with it in the box, which give light, and exhibit objects, when looked into in the dark. Eight persons testify, in a certificate appended to the book, that they have seen the plates, which have the appearance of gold, and are of curious workmanship; -- and three more testify, in another certificate, that God showed them the plates, by an angel descending from heaven for the purpose. There [sic - thus?] all either express, or appear to have full confidence in the truth of the book. It is written, frequently, with bad grammar, in a repetitious and affectedly ancient style, and in some places sounds considerably like the Scriptures. It has large portions of both old and new testiment, but derives them from other sources than our Bible. It comprises a period of almost three thousand years, as it extends from the confounding of the languages at Babel to the year of the Christian era above mentioned. It is chiefly historical, but yet very full of religion, often inculcating the importance of repentence of sin, faith in Christ, baptism, and general obedience to God's commands. In one place it appears rather opposed to believing in election, and in another holds up man's moral power or free will pretty strongly, but does not dwell much on either of these points. It speaks of Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost in new testament style, long before it represents Christ as having come upon earth. It gives an account of baptism having been practiced about eighty years before Christ. This is said to have been performed by immersion, and afterwards Christ himself enjoined the same mode expressly; and the baptism of infants is very fully condemned by God, as being inconsistent with that purity of heart which they all possess. It speaks of Christ as kneeling in his public prayers, and says the apostles were in that posture, when they received the supper from him. It seems to condemn that public worship, in which there is but one speaker, and says it was performed by prayer, exhortion, singing of psalms, &c. as every one was moved. It relates some cases of distinguished opposers to gospel instruction being struck down, lying two or three days & nights as dead, and then brought out with great [comfort]. It represents all receiving of pay for preaching as being priestcraft, and contains the doctrine of the Trinity, and of endless future punishment.

But the history it contains is one of its distinguishing features. It represents the family of Jared, as leaving the great tower at the time of the confounding of the languages, and travelling across land and rivers a great way, till they came to a vast sea, over which they were to pass to a promised land. There the Lord directed them to build eight vessels or barges as long as a tree, into which they put their herds, various seeds, and went themselves, and were shut in by a door, the vessels being made very close around them, except an air hole in the top, which was opened & shut occasionally, when the state of the sea permitted. They were lighted each by two stones, which at the request of their most pious man, and in his sight, the Lord touched with his fingers, to make them give light in the dark. After sailing before a strong wind almost a year, they arrived at the promised land, which must have been this continent, where they found a very good country. They passed through a long variegated period, being always prosperous when they were good, but frowned upon when wicked, until they were all cut off by wars with each other, except the prophet, who was directed from above to hide in a rock, that he might be preserved to write the concluding part of the history, and bury the plates containing it, that they might be found in future ages, as it was predicted they should be. This history seems designed to explain the ancient fortifications and other things seen at the west.

But there was another colony, Lehi and his family, who were warned by God to leave Jerusalem, in the reign of Zedekiah, and just before the Babylonish captivity. They resided a while in the wilderness by the Red Sea, and then were commanded to journey many days towards the east, until they came to the "sea of many waters," where the Lord taught them how to build a ship, much as he taught Noah about the ark; and after many days sailing before the wind, they arrived at their promised land, where they afterwards found many marks of the destruction of the former colony. They prospered and multiplied very much, but became at length divided into two parties, the Samanites [sic - Lamanites?] and Nephites, the former being more inclined to wickedness, the latter to piety; and they had many wars and vicissitudes through a period of a thousand years. The birth of the Saviour was foretold by one of their prophets, and a token of it given, which they afterwards saw, viz. two days without any night intervening, and also a remarkable star, the sun setting and rising as usual. In the thirty-fourth year from this, or at the crucifixion, there was darkness, and storms, and earthquakes, for three days and nights, and most of the people were destroyed. Christ then spake to them out of a cloud, & some times afterwards descended from heaven among them, chose twelve apostles, gave them most or all the instructions we have in his sermon on the mount, after which he administered the supper, and returned to heaven. In about four hundred and twenty years, the Newphite became very wicked, and were all destroyed in wars by the Samanites, who were the only people left. These, though generally wicked, acknowledged the Great Spirit. -- Soon after their arrival in the country, they had a mark put upon them in the color of their skin; but when a part of them became pious, this mark was taken off them and they became white, and their children very fair, but the rest were not whitened. Many miracles were wrought during these periods, and it is asserted that miracles and prophecy will continue to the end of the world. These plates were commanded to be hidden in the earth, and it was foretold they should be found, translated by means of the stones or glasses, and made known to the world. It states, that they had cows, oxen, and horses in abundance, and likewise copper, oron, steel, and swords; but none of these were found by the first European discovers and settlers. This at least makes the story rather lame. I am at a loss to determine whether the book originated from speculation only, or from fanaticism, or from both. I am credibly informed, that a church has been formed at the westward, on the plan of this book. If this is true, it may furnish a new denomination in religion.

CLERICUS.    

Note: Clipping courtesy of Erin Jennings; text originally transcribed by the late Dale Morgan.

COMMUNICATION.

Mr. Editor, -- I have gotten some additional information respecting the Book of Mormon, which I send you for insertion in your paper, if you see fit. It is contained in an extract, which I have just taken from a letter written from a town in the State of New York, where, as I had been previously told, this Jos. Smith had resided some years, and from which he set out, with an attendant, in pursuit of the gold plates, which he found, as they say, about one hundred and fifty miles from the place of starting. The letter is dated Oct. 18th, 1830, and the extract is as follows:

"You have probably heard of the Gold Bible taken from the earth by Joseph Smith, the money-digger. This he has translated from the Egyptian reformed language to English, by a pair of stone spectacles (provided by an angel) and a dark hat before his eyes. The books have been printed, and J. S. and Mr. N—s are engaged in peddling the same. The society are increasing. Eighteen have been baptized in a day. H. P. and wife have been baptized, & are very strong in the faith. The girls are under conviction. The leaders pretend to cast out devils and work miracles, heal the sick, &c. We have seen none of their miracles here, except N. N. I heard say in meeting, that he had had the devil cast out."

I just add, that I have been almost in contact with these peddlers in different parts of this county, having my information from them only through most credible second hand informers, who state that they said, they know the book, and the manner in which it is said to have been found, was true; or that they did not believe it, but knew it. They are said to be respectable men. The wife of one of them, though immersed formerly by an Elder in this county, has been immersed or baptized again into this new system. I only state facts, and leave the judicious and pious to their own reflections.     CLERICUS.

P. S. There is a little error in the former piece. You mistook my L for an S in the word Lamanites.


Note: Clipping courtesy of Erin Jennings; text originally transcribed by the late Dale Morgan. "J. S." may refer to "Joseph Smith, Sr.," or less likely, "Josiah Stowell." "N-s" may be a printer's transcription error for "H-s." meaning "Harris;" and "N. N." a printer's transcription error for "H. K." meaning "Newel Knight." "H. P." was probably "Hezekiah Peck."

From the (Philadelphia) U. S. Gazette.

LO!  THERE.

We mentioned nearly a year since, the appearance of a person in the upper part of New-York State, who was preaching a new religion, founded upon a new bible, given to him by an angel. The revelation then was engraven on metal plates. We thought that the matter would rest with the simple souls with whom it began, but we find that the new doctrine is gaining many believers; societies have been formed, and leaders established. We have not heard that any candidate for president has been nominated. We find the following account in the Painesville (Ohio) Gazette:

"About a couple of weeks since, three men, calling themselves Oliver Cowdry, David Whitmer, and Martin Harris, appeared in our village, laden with a new revelation which they claim to be a codicil to the New Testament. They preached in the Methodist Chapel, and from certain indications, conceiving they might do more good other wheres, departed for Kirtland, where is a "common stock family," under the charge of Elder Rigdon, a Campbellite leader of some notoriety. The men claim to act under a "commission written by the finger of God" -- they are very enthusiastic, tolerably resolute -- but from what we can learn, need that steadfast determined resolution, and popular talent, which are necessary to ensure any considerable degree of success in a new project.

The account which they give is substantially as follows: -- at a recent period an angel appeared to a poor, ignorant man, residing in or near Palmyra, in Ontario [sic - Wayne?] County, in the state of New York, directed him to open the earth at a place designated, where he would find the new revelation engraved on plates of metal. In obedience to the celestial messenger, Smith repaired to the spot, and on opening the ground discovered an oblong stone box, tightly closed with cement. He opened the sacred depository, and found enclosed a bundle of plates resembling gold, carefully united at one edge with three silver wires, so that they opened like a book. The plates were about 7 inches long and 6 broad, and the whole pile was about 6 inches deep, each plate about the thickness of tin. They were engraved in a character unintelligible to the learned men of the United States, to many of whom, it is said, they have been presented. The angel afterwards appeared to the three individuals, and showed them the plates. To Smith it was given to translate the character[s], which he was enabled to do by looking through two semi-transparent stones, but as he was ignorant of writing, Cowdry and others wrote as Smith interpreted. They say that part of the plates escaped from them in a supernatural manner, and are to be again revealed, when the events of time shall require them.

The three individuals above named, have subscribed their names to an article in the book, in which they solemnly declare that they saw the angel and that he assured them that the book was a divine revelation. They say it was written by the prophets of God during the period embracing the time for 600 years before, and several hundred [years] after the Christian era. It predicts, we understand, almost all events which have come to pass, such as the American Revolution, &c.

These men are believed by their followers to be prophets -- and they say that the world is soon to come to an end -- within 15 years at longest.

By the world coming to an end, they only mean, that the incorrigible will be cut off by a variety of means, leaving only the true believers. They have now gone west for a country they know not where, west of the Mississippi, where they say is a Holy Spot, and there they are to establish a New Jerusalem, into which [they say] will be gathered all the natives who they say are descendants of Manesseh. They [say they] are to be fed [sic - led?] by the Spirit, and will know the ground when they place their feet on it.

Immediately after their arrival here, Elder Rigdon embraced the new doctrine, and was baptised for the third time -- once as a regular Baptist -- once as a Campbellite, and now as a disciple of the new revelation. He says he has hitherto ignorantly preached heresy. His flock, we understand, have principally followed their shepherd, and some for the third time, have gone down into the water. We are told that the [whole] number baptized in the new order, is rising of one hundred."

When we read of such delusions or follies in times past, we mourn over the ignorance and credulity of days when the march of science was slow and brief; but these are the productions of our own times, the vagaries of the 19th century. Let us, when we regard them and others that characterize the age, learn a little humility for ourselves, and exercise charity for our predecessors.


Notes: (forthcoming)

FANATICS. -- Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer and Martin Harris, have lately commenced preaching near Painesville. Ohio, stating that they had a new revelation which the call a codicil to the New Testament, and [even] to have been written by the finger of God. They say that the world is to come to an end within 15 years; that is, the incorrigible are all to be cut off. They have joined one Elder Rigdon, once a Baptist, next a Campbellite, and now a disciple of the new revelation. He and part of his flock, about 100, have been baptized in it, and are going or have gone west for a country, they know not where, west of the Mississippi, where they say is a Holy Spirit, and there they are to establish a New Jerusalem, into which will be gathered all the natives, who they say are descendants of Manasseh. They are led by the spirit and will know the ground when they place their feet upon it.


Note: This account was paraphrased from a Nov. 1830 article first printed in the Painesville, Ohio Geauga Gazette.

Mormonites in Ohio. -- The believers in the book of Mormon amount to about 400 in Geauga and Cuyahoga counties, Ohio. They have all things common, and they affirm that miracles are performed among them, and revelations made to them by the Deity.

Notes: (forthcoming)

Fanaticism. -- We noticed, some time since the progress of a new religious order in the Western part of Ohio. It would seem that good materials are found in that district for such a work. The Painesville (Ohio) Gazette contains the following additional particulars:

The Golden Bible, or the Book of Mormon.

The believers inthis miserable production, are known by the name of "Mormonites," and their book is commonly called 'The book of Mormon.' It is asserted by them that their number in this vicinity is four hundred. In a conversation a few days since with a gentleman from Kirtland, well informed, and every way calculated [sic - concerned?] to give us the truth, we are assured that their numbers in the families [sic - family?] in that town were two hundred souls. We doubt not then, that their whole number in this country [sic - county?] and Cayahoga, are [sic] at least four hundred.

They have recently received an additional revelation from the prolific prophet, Smith, which is generally understood to say that Kirtland is within the precincts of the holy land; but by others, is said to mean only that in that town will be a great gathering of mighty multitudes, preparatory to their westward general migration. They are, therefore, admonished to sell no more of their possessions, but rather purchase, lest there shall not be room for the faithful. The admonition, however, arrived too late, as they have but fifty acres left and the land-holders refuse to sell to them.

They profess to receive sensible demonstration of the Deity. A few days since, a young man gave information to some of his brethren that he was about to receive a message from heaven. -- They repaired to the spot designated and there, as they solemnly assert, a letter descended from the skies and fell into the hands of the young man. The purport was to strengthen his faith and inform him that he would soon be called to the ministry. They declare their solemn belief that this letter was written in heaven by the finger of God. The style of writing was the round Italian, and the letters of gold. The favoured youth immediately attempted to copy the communication, but as fast as he wrote, the letters of the original disappeared, until it entirely vanished. It is alledged that some of them have received white stones promised in the 2d chapter of the Revelations. Such of them as have "the spirit" will declare that they see a white stone moving about the upper part of a room, and will jump and spring for it, until one more fortunate than the others catches it, but he alone can see it. -- Others however profess to hear it roll across the floor. These two stories, and others of a [similar] character, are told by them with solemn asseverations of their truth.

Among them is a man of color, a chief man, who is sometimes seized with strange vagaries and odd conceits. The other day he is said to have jumped twenty five feet down a wash bank into a tree top without injury. He sometimes fancies he can fly.

In Chardon, one man has torn away all the partitions of the lower part of a good two story dwelling house. Here a large number live together. The food, consisting of meat and vegetables, it is said, are [sic] placed on the table in a large pan, which is the whole table furniture. From this every inmate takes a piece of meat and potatoe in his hand and devours them as he walks about the room. As to matters of apparel, and indeed other things, where any one wants what he has not, he takes it any where in the family where he can find it unoccupied. All things are common.

Notes: (forthcoming)

DELUSION. There is no end to trickery and imposture in our land. "Fools are the game which knaves pursue," and until the people in some sections of the country become more enlightened, there will be plenty of game. A few weeks since we gave our readers some account of the "Book of Mormon," a work fabricated by some jugglers and impostors in the western part of New-Yprk. Recently three men from New-York, laden with this new revelation appeared in Painesville, Ohio, and began to promulgate the new doctrines, claiming to be prophets, acting under a comission written by the finger of God. From Painesville, they proceeded to Kirtland, where there was a Campbellite Society under the charge of Elder Rigdon. Immediately after their arrival Elder Rigdon embraced the new doctrine and was baptized for the third time -- once as a regular Baptist -- once as a Campbellite -- and now as a disciple of the new revelation. Most of his flock followed their shepherd, and went down into the water for the second, and some for the third time. The three fanatics, after converting Elder Rigdon and his society, left Ohio for a country they know not where, west of the Mississippi where they say is a holy spot, and there they are to establish a New-Jerusalem.

The Campbellites are followers of Rev. Alexander Campbell, who has made some disturbances among the Baptist Churches in the Western States. He calls himself a Baptist, but his oponions are so extravagant and unscriptural, that all the regular Baptists disown and oppose him. If he is not misrepresented, he maintains that sins are forgiven only by and through baptism (immersion); that baptism literally drowns sin: that the Holy Spirit is never received by any one until he has been baptised, and that none go to heaven except those who have been baptised (immersed). A Baptist correspondent of a Southern paper remarks truly, that a man who teaches in the 19th century that baptism literally washes away our sins must expect to be ridiculed by the intelligent of all denominations; and that by Mr. Campbell's rule of explaining the bible, every doctrine of the Romish Church may be made out. He adds -- "I think it right for believers to be baptised, and that by immersion; but I believe many will go to heaven who were never immersed, and that many will miss heaven who have been."

There is nothing new in the doctrine of Mr. Campbell; men in all ages have been prone to rest in external rites and ceremonies -- to substitute outward observances for purity of heart and life -- for that faith which worketh by love. In opposition to Mr. Campbell, it may be truly affirmed that no person's sins were ever washed away, no person was ever renewed, by water baptism; no man ever went to went to heaven because he had been baptised, whether in much or little water; no man was ever excluded from heaven because he had not been baptised; it is not in the power of Mr. Campbell, nor of all the clergymen on earth, by baptism or any other outward form or ceremony, to change the heart or alter the disposition or character of any man woman or child -- to make a person or thing holy which is unholy, or "bring a clean thing out of an unclean." Well does Watts say:

Not all the outward forms on earth,
    Nor rites that God has given,
Nor will of man, nor blood, nor birth,
    Can raise a soul to heaven.                                                 Hampshire Gazette.


Note 1: The above article evidently appeared in the Northampton, Massachusetts Hampshire Gazette about the beginning of March, 1831. The report appears to have combined information published by the Painesville Geauga Gazette in Nov. of 1830, in an unidentified "southern paper," and perhaps also from the Hudson Observer of Nov. 18, 1830. See the Ohio Huron Gazette of Apr. 11, 1831 for another reprint of the Hampshire Gazette report.

Note 2: As time passed, observers of the development and progress of Mormonism eventually forgot its many similarities with and special ties to Campbellism. However, during the early 1830s the connections between the two sects were still so evident as to catch the attention of reporters and editors, viewing the new religious excitement from outside of its ranks. As an example of how Mormonism progressed in doctrines of "outward forms on earth," see Sidney Rigdon's address of Apr. 11, 1845, where he says: "Now, brethren, it becomes your privilege to bind the heavens, by a similar covenant, that this Kingdom, in your hands, may triumph; each one for himself, presenting himself before God, withe uplifted hands to heaven, declaring in the presence of God, the holy messengers, and one another, at the same time decreeing in your hearts before God, that if this Kingdom does not triumph and prevail, according to the promise made through the prophet Daniel, it shall not be your fault, thus binding the heavens for a fulfilment of the promises made, concerning it."

FANATICISM.

Some time last summer, or perhaps longer ago, mention was made in the papers of some fanatics, who pretended to have dug up in the western part of New York, a stone or stones, on which were written [a] divine revelation, that had lain buried, we think they said, for centuries. We did not take pains to preserve the account, as we thought the imposition too gross to find believers...

Believers in the book of Mormon amount to about 400 in Geauga and Cuyahoga counties, Ohio. They have all things common, and they affirm that miracles are performed among them, and revelations made to them by the Deity....

They assert, that a short time since a letter written in heaven by the hand of God, descended from the skies and fell into the hands of a young man; and that some of them have received the white stones promised in the 2d chapter of Revelations...

[In Chardon and Kirtland] 200 of these deluded people belong to a family....


Note: The above fragmentary text appears to be a paraphrase of a Feb. 1, 1831 article from the Painesville, Ohio Geauga Gazette. The same article was reprinted more exactly in the Feb. 15, 1831 issue of the New York Danville Chronicle.

THE  MORMON  DELUSION.

Mr. Judd -- I noticed a few weeks since in your paper a brief account of a sect or gang, who in this vicinity are called Mormonites. The public mind is awake in this region; go where we will, we hear little except Mormonism. I presume there are not less than 5 or 600 of these deluded beings in the towns north and west of this.

They have in the town north of this what is called the "big family," where no one says that aught of the things that he possesses is his own; they have all things in common.

There are many who were once respectable and intelligent, who are now following these wretched impostors -- these pretended prophets. Joseph Smith, jr., author of the new revelation, is now head man in the big family. He pretends that he goes to the Lord occasionally for advice, and they think, yes they know they have all their orders from head quarters, even from the Lord Almighty, through the mouth of his prophet.

Joe pretends to cast out devils, to give the Holy Ghost by laying on of hands, to heal the sick, &c. He has 10 years' translating to do; he looks in a small stone he has, and there reads the will of the Lord and writes it for the good of his fellow-men; he can read a person's heart by looking in his face. Some lie in trances a day or two and visit the unknown regions in the mean time; some are taken with a fit of terrible shaking which they say is the power of the Holy Ghost.

I attended one of their meetings about two weeks ago; a woman was taken shaking who was not a Mormonite and she has shook the greater part of the time since; she is not inclined to join them yet -- says she feels no different in her mind than she did before.

Would you believe me if I should tell you that [many] Methodists, and Methodist ministers, and some baptists and presbyterians have joined them? -- Such is the fact, yes sir, they have been down through the ice in the mill-pond and their sins are all washed away, and they are clothed with self-righteousness as with a garment. One half has not been told, but I must close.
                            A PRESBYTERIAN.
Chester, Geauga Co. Ohio, Feb. 22, 1831.


Note: The exact date of this clipping is unknown; probably it is from Monday, May 16, 1831. The news item appeared first in the Northampton Gazette (in March or April), and in the Salem Gazette on May 6, 1831.

From the Northampton Gazette.

THE  MORMON  DELUSION.

Mr. Judd -- I noticed a few weeks since in your paper a brief account of a sect or gang, who in this vicinity are called Mormonites. The public mind is awake in this region; go where we will we hear little except Mormonism. I presume there are not less than 5 or 600 of these deluded beings in the towns north and west of this. They have in the town north of this what is called the "big family," where no one says that aught of the things that he possesses is his own: they have all things in common.

There are many who were once respectable and intelligent, who are now following these wretched impostors -- these pretended prophets. Joseph Smith, jr. author of the new revelation, is now head man in the big family. He pretends that he goes to the Lord occasionally for advice, and they think, yea they know they have all their orders from head quarters, even from the Lord Almighty, through the mouth of his prophet. Jo pretends to cast out devils, to give the Holy Ghost by laying on of hands, to heal the sick, &c. He has 10 years' translating to do; he looks in a small stone he has, and there reads the will of the Lord and writes it for the good of his fellow men; he can read a person's heart by looking in his face. Some lie in trances a day or two and visit the unknown regions in the mean time; some are taken with a fit of terrible shaking which they say is the power of the Holy Ghost.

I attended one of their meetings about two weeks ago; a woman was taken shaking who was not a Mormonite and she has shook the greater part of the time since; she is not inclined to join them yet -- says she feels no different in her mind than she did before. -- Would you believe me if I should tell you that methodists, and methodist ministers, and some baptists and presbyterians have joined them? Such is the fact, yes sir, they have been down thro' the ice in the mill pond and their sins are all washed away and they are clothed with self-righteousness as with a garment. One half has not been told, but I must close.     A PRESBYTERIAN.
    Chester, Geauga Co. Ohio, Feb. 22, 1831.


Note: The Northampton, Massachusetts Hampshire Gazette evidently published two or more reports from northern Ohio, during the first part of 1831, which provided unique information regarding the early Mormons. These articles (listed in the Index to the Hampshire Gazette, 1786-1937), have yet to be located and transcribed from their initial appearance in that newspaper.

MORMONISM AGAIN. -- The last Northampton Gazette contains a letter from a clergyman in Ohio, in which mention is made of the sect of Mormonites, and the increasing prevalence of their absurd doctrines. The Geauga (Ohio) Gazette, published in the immediate vicinity of their settlement, also speaks of the alarming increase of their numbers, from various parts of that state, as well as from other states. In their accessions, they are sometimes imposed upon by unworthy members, who, inasmuch as the society have every thing in common, visit them from interested motives of temporal benefit and personal behoof. A wight joined them a short time since, whose outward habilments were in a somewhat precarious state. Having equipped himself with a good coat, "and all nether garments corresponding thereto," he vacated the fanatical premises. The disciples of Mormon, however, pursued the fugitive, and recovered the garments, leaving him sans jerkin and inexpressibles. A Painesville print observes, that "a short time since an individual of the society, after an illness of a few days, expired. It is said that no physician was called to attend him. But one of their prophets, at different times, commanded the disease to leave him. What reason the impious claimant of a prophet's mantle assigned for such flagrant disobedience, we are not informed; probably lack of faith in the sufferer." An eminent British writer has well observed, that of all things, wisdom is most terrified with epidemical fanaticism -- because of all enemies, it is that against which she is the least able to furnish any kind of resource.


Note: Clipping courtesy of Erin Jennings. The Painsville Telegraph related an account of Mr. Doty's demise in its issue for Apr. 5, 1831. The above article excerpt was probably taken from an early April issue of the rival Geauga Gazette.

FANATICISM.

The Painesville (Ohio) Gazette, (says a Philadelphia paper) contains the following articles. How wonderful -- how altogether inexplicable is the human mind. While we are hailing the present day as one of remarkable brilliancy -- while reason and truth are chasing away the vestiges of error, behold we are met at different points, with persecutions for opinion's sake; and with opinions that might almost (if any opinions could) justify persecution. Let it teach us forbearance with those that would denounce us for opinions and attachments which they must hereafter approve; and let it teach us a due distrust of ourselves, and of our most favored speculations. How beautiful is the simplicity of truth.

"Infatuation. -- Almost every week brings new reports of the fatal infatuation of the Mormonites. It will be recollected that when they made their appearance here, they declared themselves immortal! Death, however, has paid them no respect, other than by frequent visits. In defiance of repeated instances of mortality, they still profess the power of healing, refuse to call medical assistance, and many fall the miserable victims of their faith. The latest reports are, that a few days since, the wife of a Mr. Murdock, daughter of Judge Clapp, of Mentor, and a believer in Mormonism, died among them in child bed, for want of professional assistance. The wife of the prophet Smith hardly escaped the same fate; she was in labor three days, during which time they tried their spells in vain, at last they called an accoucheur, and she was delivered of the dead bodies of two fine boys. The mother barely survived.

Fresh Arrival. -- Within the past week there have arrived from the state of N.Y. some by the Lake and others by land, at least 200 Mormonites. They brought with them their household furniture entire, bag and baggage, and roots and herbs and plants ready for the soil. They passed on to the 'holy land,' and we understand are scattered about in the several common stock families. We are told that the wife of the prophet Harris refused to be a Mormonite, and he has left her among "the Gentiles." She it was who purloined several pages of the first revelation, and which by the direction of the Angel have never been supplied. Another fellow had left his wife and children, and openly declared they never should live with him until they embrace the new faith.

Every breeze wafts to us some new rumour from this prolific source of fanatics, some of which proved true and some false. Fame now whispers in sly and obscure hints, something about a miraculous conception, from which we conclude the Mormon public mind is being prepared for the nativity of some wonderful personage.["]


Note: Clipping courtesy of Erin Jennings. See the Geauga Gazette of May 17, 1831 for the original articles.

The progress of Mormonism. -- The [Painesville?] (Ohio) Gazette records another case of fatal infatuation which has occurred among the Mormonites located in that vicinity. It will be remembered, says that print, that when these deluded creatures first made their appearance here, they declared themselves immortal. Death, however, has paid them no respect other than by frequent visits. In defiance of repeated instances of mortality, they still profess the power of healing -- refuse to call medical assistance and many fall the miserable victims of their faith. The same paper states that within the week past here had arrived at that place from the state of New-York, some by the lake and others by land, at least two hundred Mormonites. They brought with them their household furniture entire, log and luggage, and roots, and herbs and plants ready for the soil. They passed on to the "holy land," and we understand are scattered about in the common stock families. We are told that the wife of the prophet Harris refused to be a Mormonite, and he has left her among "the gentiles." -- Phil. Al.


Note: This two-part article was apparently taken from an early June, 1831 issue of the Philadelphia Album. The original two reports came from the Painesville Geauga Gazette of mid-May, 1831. What appears to be a reprint of the entire text of the two reports can be found in the June 25, 1831 issue of the Utica Evangelical Magazine.

THE  MORMON  DELUSION.

[first part of article missing: see N. H. Gazette issue, Feb. ?, 1831 for missing text]

Our readers will recollect a similar delusion which raged some ten years ago in the case of the "Pilgrims." Their Prophet -- Old Isaac, as he was called -- came from Canada with a few, and encamped in Woodstock. Here outraging not Christianity only but humanity, by their absurd opinions and absurder practice -- by taking the assertions of their infatuated leader for divine revelation, by rolling in the ashes, by making wry faces, and by other unmeaning mummery -- they induced many decent people who should have known better to join them, under the empty practice of being led to the holy land. Taking a south-east direction, they floated along down the Ohio and Mississippi, their number augmenting, till they reached the mouth of the Arkansaw. Here, in the swampy delta if the river they encamped, when in a short time a pestilence carried off two thirds of their number. The rest becoming urgent for the fulfilment of the Prophet's promise, he led them a little further and set his staff in the ground at evening, saying that there was the promised land, and that in the morning, for proof, they would find the staff had out forth bud and blossom. But behold, in the morning the dry staff remained, and the Prophet had vanished, and with him the purse which contained the representative of their boasted community of property, together with all their pleasing hopes and dreamy visions.

From the resemblance between the Pilgrims and the Mormonites in manners and pretensions, we should think Old Isaac had re-appeared in the person of Joe Smith, and was intending to make another speculation. We are aware that this is a land of universal toleration in matters of religion, but it seems a pity if the authorities of Geauga County are not adequate to restrain, or at least guide into a better path such delusions. If authorities may set a guardian over a person non compos mentis, why not over people like the Pilgrims and Mormonites, for surely never were people less in possession of their proper minds than they.

After so many facts similar to the above which have taken place in this enlightened country, we come to wonder, as many commentators on the above are wondering, at the liability of mankind anywhere to delusion. Men love darkness rather than light, and they are unwilling to come to the light lest theit deeds should be reproved

The Mormonites believe in "The Book of Mormon."

They are daily receiving new revelations -- sometimes by letters dropped from the skies, written in a round Italian hand, and in letters of gold; which, if it is attempted to transcribe them, vanish.

They have all things common, and their destination is some glorious country far in the utopian West.


Note 1: For more information on Isaac Bullard's "Pilgrims" and their 1817-18 stop-over at Woodstock, see David M. Ludlum's 1939 Social Ferment in Vermont, pp. 242-245. Although the Joseph Smith, Sr. family had departed Vermont by the time the Bullard Pilgrims arrived on the scene, Oliver Cowdery's Grandfather, (William Cowdery, Sr.) then lived in Woodstock. It is not unlikely that members of the Cowdery family had first-hand knowledge of this particular cult. For another interesting newspaper article on the Bullard Pilgrims, see "Wonderful Infatuation" in the Palmyra Wayne Sentinel of May 26, 1826.

Note 2: In a 1997 article entitled "Joseph Smith's Testimony: The First Vision and Book of Mormon Evidence," Mark Stepherson has this to say about the cult and its possible influence on early Mormonism: "Isaac Bullard was noticed and had the public mind excited against him. He wore nothing but a bearskin girdle and a beard. He gathered his "pilgrims" into a community near the Smith's old home in Vermont. When the community moved west, they likely followed the same road the Smith family used when moving to New York. Isaac Bullard taught free love, but I wonder how many members were women willing to practice free love with their leader, a man who regarded washing as a sin and bragged that he had not changed clothes in seven years?"

MORMONITES.

Various articles have been circulating in the papers of late, respecting the dwellers of a settlement near Painesville, Ohio. We have abstained from publishing any of them, because we were unable from recollection to place before the reader a sketch of the projector or clear statement of the rise in this state, of a sect, its rapid increase, and eventual emigration to the place above stated. Now, we are prepared with the characters of its originators, their religious creed, and some of their acts and doings, as follows:

Poughkeepsie Telegram.      

(From the Lockport Balance.)

THE GOLD BIBLE. -- We have hitherto given some accounts of this IMPOSITION. The press, has generally spoken of it, as it should speak in terms of reprobation or derision. It is but recently, however, that a demonstration has been had that a scheme carrying with it from the commencement, so many and so palpable evidence of imposition, a cheat so easily detected, and based upon entire fallacy and delusion, could gain credence, or obtain disciples. The fact that it has done, and continues doing so, furnishes an unfavorable commentary upon the intelligence of the age in which we live; an evidence that with all the lights of experience, and with all the facilities for investigating and embracing TRUTH, error has not yet lost its attractions -- delusion and bigotry retain a portion of their dominion. In a community, enlightened by education, and enjoying in an eminent degree, instruction from the pulpit and press -- with the precepts and principles of christianity widely disseminated, and faithfully administered -- a few fanatics impelled by ignorance and superstition, or designing speculators upon human credulity -- claim to have been selected as the medium of a new revelation from heaven! to be from time to time, favored, as was Moses, with direct interpretations of the Divine will! The story is probably familiar to most of our readers -- to some it may be new. Briefly it is as follows: -- The principal personage in this farce, is a certain Jo. Smith, an ignorant and nearly unlettered young man, living at or near the village of Palmyra; the second, an itinerant pamphlet pedlar, and occasionally a journeyman printer, named Oliver Cowdry; the third, Martin Harris, a respectable farmer, at Palmyra. Other less important actors, have been brought in, as the exigencies of the three first named required. About two years since, Smith pretended to have been directed, in a dream or vision, to a certain spot located between the village of Palmyra and Manchester. A slight excavation of the earth, enabled him to arrive at this new revelation, written in mysterious characters, upon gold plates. A pair of spectacles, of strange and peculiar construction, were found with the plates, to aid the optics of Jo. and his associates. Soon after, another very fortunate circumstance occurred. This was the introduction of no less a personage than Oliver Cowdry, to whom, and whom only, was given the ability -- with the aid of the spectacles -- to translate the mysterious characters -- All this arranged, but one thing was wanting to promulgate the new revelation -- money. Martin Harris was possessed of a valuable farm, acquired by industry and economy; in his religious sentiments, he was a credulous zealot. His credulity and his money, were too conspicuous to be overlooked by the modern apostles. In due time, a divine command came to Harris, through Jo, to devote his property, and all that was his, to the project. Harris' farm was mortgaged, and the printing of the Bible executed. It is a book of over [500] pages, and is entitled "Book of Mormon." Of the book, it is only necessary to say that it is a ridiculous imitation of the manner of the holy scriptures; and in many instances, a plagiarism upon their language. With all its glaring inconsistencies, it can hardly claim the poor merit of common ingenuity. The projectors of the scheme have attempted to make the discovery story, historically consistent. The surmise, or uncertain tradition, connected with the destruction of Babylon [sic - Jerusalem?], and dissemination of the Jews, is brought to their aid. As they would have it, a portion of the Jews, wandered to this continent, and by Divine command, deposited the "Book of Mormon," in the obscure spot, where the lucky stars of Jo Smith directed him.

We have given but the outlines of what we have understood the "GOLD BIBLE" imposition. -- We may have treated it with a degree of levity -- viewed as the wicked and corrupt scheme of its authors, it can certainly deserve no better treatment. As another dark spot in the catalogue of human weakness and infirmity, it excites a different sensation. It has no parallel in folly and stupidity, from the days of Johanna Southcote, to those of Jemima Wilkinson. In its character, or practical operations, it has no redeeming feature. It is with regret, however, that we are obliged to add, that it has not proved unsuccessful. There are now, probably, 1000 disciples of the Mormon creed! "Tell it not in Gath, publish it not in the streets of Askelon." Their prophet Jo. has selected a spot in the state of Ohio, which he calls the promised land.

It is in and about the town of Kirtland, Geauga county. [Thither] the deluded followers of the false prophet are repairing. It is but a few days since, that an entire boat load of them passed this village, principally from the counties of Ontario and Wayne. Such as have property, convert it to a common stock, and thus create an inducement which is not overlooked by the idle and vicious. Families, in some instances, have been divided, and in others, mothers have been obliged to follow their deluded husbands, or adopt the disagreeable alternative, of parting with them, and their children.

---

A  MORMON  COMMISSION.

(view original article from Ohio paper)

---

FANATICISM.

(view original article from Ohio paper)

Notes: (forthcoming)

From the Painesville (Ohio) Gazette.

THE  MORMONITES.

This infatuated people are again in motion. In their own cant phrase "they are going to inherit the promise of God to Abraham and his seed." Their destination is some indefinite spot on the Missouri river, they say about 1500 miles distant. About 80 of them have recently been ordained and some have gone, others are about going, two and two, part by the western rivers, and part by land, to their distant retreat, far away from the cheering voice of civilized man. Those who have disposed of their property go now, and such as have property, are making market for it so eagerly as often to disregard pecuniary interests, and all are to follow with all convenient dispatch. They still persist in their power to work miracles. They say they have often seen them done -- the sick are healed -- the lame walk -- devils are cast out, -- and these assertions are made by men heretofore considered rational men, and men of truth.

Man is a strange animal -- and the lesson before us ought to teach us humility for ourselves and forbearance towards the opinions of others: for though we are still of opinion that the leaders of this faction are as gross impostors as was Jemima Wilkinson, yet we have no doubt the great body of their followers are sincere and honest.


Note: This article was reprinted from the Painesville, Ohio Geauga Gazette of June 21, 1831

THE MORMONITES. -- This infatuated people are again in motion... Their destination is some indefinite spot on the Missouri River, they say some 1500 miles on the Missouri River, about 80 recently ordained, as soon as they dispose of their property they go, still persist in their power to do miracles, the leaders are as gross imposters as Jemima Wilkinson, they are sincere and honest... Painsville, Ohio.


Note: Exact text uncertain -- taken from damaged news clipping.

The Mormonites. -- We learn from the Painesville Gazette, that this infatuated people are again in motion. In their own cant phrase "they are going to inherit the promise of God to Abraham and his seed." Their destination is some indefinite spot on the Missouri River, they say about fifteen hundred miles distant. About eighty of them have recently been ordained, and some of them have gone; others are about going, two and two, part by the western rivers and part by land, to their distant retreat, far away from the cheering voice of civilized man.


Note: The above text was excerpted from an article published in the Painesville, Ohio Geauga Gazette of June 21, 1831

MORMONISM.

It is certainly strange, yet nevertheless true, that this infatuated people, if we may place confidence in the reports of the newspapers, are becoming more numerous, and assuming a more formidable appearance.

We had hoped, that ere this the believers in the Book of Mormon would have been entirely extinct, and that no individual, however credulous, could be found so blind to reason and common judgment, as to permit himself to be carried away by the absurdities of the Mormon doctrine. The frailties incident to human nature have in all ages invariably shown themselves, either in remarkable lethergy, or an enthusiastic excitement, unsanctioned by reason or common sense. But the followers of the book of Mormon, if the accounts received be not inconceivably exaggerated, are amongst the most blind and deluded people we have upon record.

They believe that their leader is the real Jesus Christ, and that both he and his disciples have infinite powers to work miracles, raise the dead, cleanse lepers -- and they testify that he has cast out many devils -- that the millennium is nigh, and that Philadelphia is the place where Jesus Christ will meet his disciples and followers. They are now removing to the promised land -- some indefinite spot on the Mississippi -- some have gone and others are disposing of their property, often at an immense pecuniary sacrifice, that they may join their companions gone before. To such an enthusiastic pitch have they raised their imaginations, that the entreaties and persuasive arguments of friends have no weight whatever.

Their religious ceremonies and observances are forms of obsceneness and blasphemy, and are conducted in a manner shocking to the sense of rational creatures. In their excesses, unrestrained by the presence of the opposite sex, and in one assembly, they roll naked on the floor, and exhibit a variety of grotesque and unseemly forms, that humanity would blush to name, It is truly lamentable that such a state of things exists -- yet nevertheless these fanatics are daily receiving new accessions from New-York, Indiana, &c. -- Buck's Co. Int.


Note: This garbled report, reprinted from the Bucks County Intelligencer, was extracted from an article originally appearing in the Palmyra, New York Wayne Sentinel of Aug. 23, 1831. The careless extraction of text resulted in the prophecies and "unseemly forms" of the followers of Joseph C. Dylkes (the "Leatherwood God") being interspersed indiscriminately with the activities of the Mormons, resulting in a complete jumble of fact and fiction.

MORMON  RELIGION.

(This class of religious fanatics held their meeting in a neighboring town Sunday before last. It is therefore presumed some [of] the readers of the Gazette will probably be gratified in reading the following account of its origin, &c. This is emphatically the age of excitement, fanaticism, and propagandism.)


This general impulse given to religious fanaticism by a set of men in Western N. York, has been productive among other strange results of the infatuation of Mormonism. This piece of roguery, folly and frenzy (for it partakes of all) is the genuine fruit of the same seeds which produced the Sunday Mail movement -- the Pioneer line of stages -- the Magdalen Reports &c. &c. It is religion run into madness by zealots and hypocrites.

It was during this state of feeling in which the money diggers of Ontario county, by the suggestions of the Ex-Preacher from Ohio, thought of turning their digging concern into a religious plot, and thereby have a better chance of working upon the credulity and ignorance of their associates and the neighborhood. Money and a good living might be got in this way. It was given out that visions had appeared to Joe Smith -- that a set of golden plates on which was engraved the "Book of Mormon," enclosed in an iron chest, was deposited somewhere in the hill I have mentioned. People laughed at the first intimation of the story, but the Smiths and Rangdon persisted in its truth. They began also to talk very seriously, to quote scripture, to read the bible, to be contemplative, and to assume that grave studied character, which so easily imposes on ignorant and superstitious people. Hints were given out that young Joe Smith was the chosen one of God to reveal this new mystery to the world; and Joe from being an idle young fellow, lounging about the villages, jumped up into a very grave parsonlike man, who felt he had on his shoulders the salvation of the world, besides a respectable looking sort of a blackcoat. Old Joe, the ex-preacher, and several others, were the believers of the new faith, which they admitted was an improvement in christianity, foretold word for word in the bible. They treated their own invention with the utmost religious respect. By the special interposition of God, the golden plates on which was engraved the Book of Mormon, and other works, had been buried for ages in the hill by a wandering tribe of the children of Israel, who had found their way to western New York, before the birth of christianity itself. Joe Smith is discovered to be the second Messiah who was to reveal this word to the world and to reform it anew.

In relation to the finding of the plates and the taking the engraving, a number of ridiculous stories are told. Some unsanctified fellow looked out the other side of the hill. They had to follow it with humility and found it embedded beneath a beautiful grove of maples. Smith's wife, who had a little of the curiosity of her sex, peeped into the large chest in which he kept the engravings taken from the golden plates, and straightway one half the new bible vanished, and has not been recovered to this day. Such were the effects of the unbelievers on the sacred treasure. There is no doubt but the ex-parson from Ohio is the author of the book which was recently printed and published in Palmyra and passes for the new Bible. It is full of strange narratives -- in the style of the scriptures, and bearing on its face the marks of some ingenuity, and familiar acquaintance with the Bible. It is probable that Joe Smith is well acquainted with the trick, but Harris the farmer and the recent converts, are true believers. Harris was the first man who gave credit to the story of Smith and the ex-preacher. He was their maiden convert -- the Ali of the Ontario Mahomet, who believed without a reason and without a murmur. They attempted to get the Book printed, but could not raise the means till Harris stept forward, and raised money on his farm for that purpose. Harris with several manuscripts in his pocket, went to the city of New York, and called upon one of the Professors of Columbia College for the purpose of showing them to him. Harris says that the Professor thought them very curious, but admitted that he could not decypher them. Said he to Harris, "Mr. Harris you had better go to the celebrated Doct. Mitchell and show them to him. He is very learned in these ancient languages, and I have no doubt will be able to give you some satisfaction." "Where does he live," asked Harris. He was told, and off he posted with the engravings from the Golden Plates to submit to Doct. Mitchell. Harris says that the Doctor received him very "purlitely," looked at his engravings -- made a learned dissertation on them -- compared them with the hieroglyphics discovered by Champollion in Egypt -- and set them down as the language of a people formerly in existence in the East, but now no more.

The object of his going to the city to get the "Book of Mormon" printed, was not however accomplished. He returned with his manuscript or engravings to Palmyra -- tried to raise money by mortgage on his farm from the New York Trust Company -- did raise the money, but from what source -- whether the Trust Company or not I am uncertain. At last a printer in Palmyra undertook to print the translations of Joe Smith, Harris becoming responsible for the expense. They were called translations, but in fact and in truth they are believed to be the work of the ex-Preacher from Ohio, who stood in the background and put forward Joe to father the new bible and the new faith. After the publication of the golden bible, they began to make converts rapidly. The revivals and other religious excitements had thrown up materials for the foundation of a new sect, they soon found they had not dug for money in vain -- they began to preach -- to pray -- to see more visions -- to prophesy and perform the most fantastic tricks -- there was now no difficulty in getting a living and the gingerbread factory was abandoned. They created considerable talk over all this section of the country. Another Revelation came upon them, and through Joe and some other of these prophets, they were directed to take up their march and go out to the promised land -- to a place near Painesville, Ohio. Money was raised in a twinkling from the new converts. Their principles -- their tenets -- their organization -- their discipline were as yet unformed and unfashioned, and probably are so to this day. Since they went to Ohio they have adopted some of the worldly views of the Shakers and have formed a sort of community system where everything is in common. Joe Smith, Harris, the Ex-pedlar and the Ex-parson are among their elders and preachers -- so also now is Phelps one of Mr. Granger's leading anti-masonic editors in this village.

Such is a brief view of the rise and progress of the Mormon Religion one of the strangest pieces of fanaticism to which the ill-advised and the worst regulated ambition and folly of certain portions of the clergy in Western New York ever gave birth. What a lesson it ought to teach us! -- N. Y. Cour. & Eq.


Note: The above piece was adapted from the first article of James G. Bennett's two-part, on-the-scene report, published in the Morning Courier & New York Enquirer of Aug. 31, 1831.

THE  BOOK  OF  MORMON.

It is well known to our readers that a new sect has been formed in the [western] part of this republic, who bow at the altar of fanaticism, and have retired to the wilds of the Missouri, for the purpoe of enjoying their religious opinions without interruption. The number of Mormonites is said to exceed one thousand, and they number among their followers, some men of intelligence and talent.

Through the politeness of a friend, we have been favored with a perusal of the 'Book of Mormon,' which contains nearly six hundred pages, octavo, published at Palmyra, N. Y. by Joseph Smith, Jun. 'Author and Proprietor.' The book is a literary curiosity. The style is an affection of the Scriptural, but destitute of the beauties of sublimity. Perhaps an allusion to its contents may not be unacceptable to some of our readers... [overview of the Book of Mormon follows -- not transcribed] ...

The Book of Mormon appears to be merely a supplement to the Scriptures, and does not attempt to controvert any of the established doctrines of Christianity. It definitely decides three important historical questions, which have caused many controversial volumes to be written during the last century -- viz: Who were the discoverers of America?

How this continent originally became peopled?

And the cause of the dark complexion of the native inhabitants of the forests?

There can be no doubt that the followers of the Book of Mormon are a set of deluded fanatics -- or desperate, disappointed individuals, each of whom would -- Set his life -- On any cast to mend it, or be rid on -- but the accounts of their extravagant doctrines, which are daily published in the newspapers, are probably exaggerated. It is said they believed their leader to be the real Jesus, and that both he and his disciples have infinite power to work miracles, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out devils -- that the millenium is at hand, and that Philadelphia is the place where Jesus Christ will meet his disciples and followers -- with many absurdities, which do not appear to be sanctioned by the 'Book of Mormon.'


Note: This article purports to have been reprinted from the Exeter News-Letter, which, in turn, appears to have taken some of its more outlandish claims from the same source as did the New-Hampshire Sentinel of Sep. 9, 1831.

MORMONISM.

The New York Courier and Enquirer gives, in letters for a correspondent dated at Canandaigua, an account of the origin and character of Mormonism, abiut which we have hitherto been ignorant, whether stupidity or wickedness had the greater part in its production. This account must probably be taken with some abatement; particularly we suppose that the writer has exaggerated the effect of clerical folly; but we have seen nowhere else so full a statement of the origin of this delusion.

New York has been celebrated for her parties...

reprints James G. Bennett's two-part report from the
Morning Courier & New York Enquirer

Notes: (forthcoming)

MORMONITES.   The Hampshire Gazette says -- A lady from Ohio informs us that many of the Mormonites in Geauga county have started for the promised land in Missouri; some of them passed through the town in which she resides; their language was -- 'We have left Babylon, and are going to Mount Zion.' Among those who have embraced the doctrines of these fanatics are two merchants, and some respectable farmers. One man joined them whose property was estimated at 7,000 dollars. The lady to whom we have alluded found in the Lake steam boat a Mormonite woman on her return to Boston. She said she had made a journey all the way from Boston to Ohio, to investigate the subject of Mormonism, and had satisfied herself that the Mormon bible was a revelation from God, and the leaders true prophets. She stated that others from Boston had become converts to the new system. She believed that the Mormonites could perform miracles. When asked if she had seen any miraculous operations, she replied that she had seen a person who was very sick suddenly restored to health. On other subjects she conversed like a sensible, pious woman. She stated that she was a Methodist when she left Boston.


Note: The "Mormonite woman" mentioned above appears to have been Vienna Jacques, who in the summer of 1831 traveled from Boston to Kirtland, Ohio, to investigate Mormonism and who was baptized there on July 12, 1831. In her own way, this lady was the first Mormon missionary to New England -- preparing the way for the subsequent missions of Orson Pratt, Luke E. Johnson, Samuel H. Smith and Orson Hyde.

MORMONITES.   The Hampshire Gazette says -- A lady from Ohio informs us that many of the Mormonites in Geauga county have started for the promised land in Missouri; some of them passed through the town in which she resides; their language was -- 'We have left Babylon, and are going to Mount Zion.' Among those who have embraced the doctrines of these fanatics are two merchants, and some respectable farmers. One man joined them whose property was estimated at 7,000 dollars. The lady to whom we have alluded found in the Lake steam boat a Mormonite woman on her return to Boston. She said she had made a journey all the way from Boston to Ohio, to investigate the subject of Mormonism, and had satisfied herself that the Mormon bible was a revelation from God, and the leaders true prophets. She stated that others from Boston had become converts to the new system. She believed that the Mormonites could perform miracles. When asked if she had seen any miraculous operations, she replied that she had seen a person who was very sick suddenly restored to health. -- On other subjects she conversed like a sensible, pious woman. She stated that she was a Methodist when she left Boston.


Note: (forthcoming)

From the Jacksonville (Ill.,) Patriot of Sept. 16

THE  MORMONITES.

A Preacher of this sect visited us last Saturday. We heard a part of his lecture, which occupied more than two hours. From his account, this sect came into existence a little more than a year since in the following manner, -- A young man about 23 years of age, somewhere in Ontario county, N. Y., was visited by an angel! (here the preacher looked around him apparently to see if the credulity of the people in this enlightened age could be thus imposed on) who informed him three times in one night that by visiting a certain place in that town he would have revealed to him something of importance. The young man was disturbed, but did not obey the summons until the following day, when the angel again visited him. At the place appointed he found in the earth a box which contained a set of thin plates described as being connected with rings in the shape of the letter D, which facilitated the opening and shutting of the book. The preacher said he found in the same place two stones with which he was enabled by placing them over his eyes and putting his head in a dark corner to decypher the hieroglyphics on the plates! -- This we were told was performed to admiration, and now, as the result, we have a book which the speaker informed us was the Mormon Bible -- a book second to no other -- without which the holy bible, he seemed to think, would be of little use.

It appears from his statement, that three of the offspring of Joseph, by his yoingest son Ephraim, whose names were Laman, Nephi and Lehigh, as near as we could understand, were the persons from whom sprang Mormon. -- Laman and Nephi rather declined from walking in the right way, but Lehigh was firm in the faith. Mormon, who was a prophet, led them eastward until they came to the sea, as we suppose, where they built a ship and came to the western world. To prove this, the preacher refered us to Genesis, 49th chapyer and 22d verse, and said the branches running over the wall was neither more or less than the progeny of Joseph, leaving their own and coming to this country! He went into a detail of the reasons which induced him to join himself to this people -- that on account of so many sects being in the world, and the discrepancys in their opinions, he became sceptical -- that hearing of these people in July last, he joined himself to them, believing them to constitute the true Church -- and that he came this way to meet a convocation of elders in Jackson county, Missouri, which is to be their New Jerusalem, but was disappointed in not seeing them there. He insisted on the bible being joined with his book, by quoting the 16th and 17th verses of the 37th chapter of Ezekiel, and comparing the bible and Mormon's book to the two sticks there spoken of. We thought this part of his subject too ludicrous to be refuted by any man in his right mind. We cannot now enter into the merits of his discourse, nor should we have given this hastily written sketch, had we not been requested to say something on the subject. Some of these men may be sincere; but does this prove they are in the right? The worshippers of Juggernaut are sincere, or they would not sacrifice their lives by throwing themselves under the wheel of its life destroying car. As far as we are acquainted with the bible we now have, we are satisfied that the Mormonites are a deluded sect of men, whose doctrines are not only dangerous -- but, notwithstanding all their professions, they are calling down the curse of God on their own heads.


Note 1: This article was also reprinted in the Portsmouth New Hampshire Gazette of Oct. 25, 1831, in the Daily Albany Argus of Oct. 15, 1831, etc. The text presented above was derived from various reprints.

Note 2: William E. McLellen (1806-1883) went to Independence, Missouri, in July of 1831 to investigate Mormonism. According to his 1831-36 journal, he reached Independence on Aug. 18th, missing by more than a week the LDS Conference held in that place on Aug. 4th. McLellen was baptized a Mormon at Independence on Aug. 20th; by Saturday, Sept. 10, he was in Jacksonville, Morgan Co., Illinois (where the Illinois Patriot was published) and was preaching there to a receptive audience.

Note 3: Dan Vogel, on page 292 of his Early Mormon Documents III, dates the Illinois Patriot article to "Sept. 16, 1831." Vogel reports that he derived this information from a reprint in the New Hampshire Miscellany of Oct. 11, 1831, but no such article of that date and no such newspaper is known to exist. As the writer of the Illinois Patriot report refers to McLellen's Sept. 10th preaching in that town as occurring "last Saturday," it would appear that the article was written no earlier than Sunday, Sept. 11th and no later than Saturday, Sept. 17th. Although the news report may have been delayed in publication, the most likely date for its appearance in the Illinois Patriot is Saturday, Sept. 16, 1831, (in Vol. I, No. 8 of that paper). The Daily Albany Argus' reprint of the article gives the Illinois Patriot issue's date as "Sept. 16."

Note 4: Although the reporter makes a few mistakes in relaying what he heard of the story of Lehi, Nephi and Laman, the remainder of the report appears credible. Notably lacking from McLellen's preaching is any mention of Joseph Smith's "first