Part 2 (1911-1920)
References & Accompanying Content for 1911
1911-1: “Oliver Cowdery,” by Junius F. Wells, March 1911 Improvement Era,
He [Oliver Cowdery], together with Parley P. Pratt and others, led the first mission
to the Lamanites, as the “Mormons” called the Indians, in the fall of 1830, and
to the Lamanites, as the “Mormons” called the Indians, in the fall of 1830, and
spring of 1831. They went first to the Cattaraugus tribe, near Buffalo; thence to
the Wyandottes, near Sandusky, Ohio; and thence to Western Missouri, where
they visited the Shawnees, and spent a considerable time among the Delawares.
Oliver Cowdery delivered a notable discourse, pointing to the origin of the
Indians as told in the Book of Mormon, to the latter tribe, which was
appreciatively replied to by its chief.* p. 386
*History of the Church, Vol. *, page 183.
1911-2: “Messages of the First Presidency,” compiled by James R. Clark, Vol. 4,
pp. 232-33
pp. 232-33
An Ancient Record
The revealer of these plates, who proclaimed himself a messenger from God, gave
his name as Moroni, and stated that he was one of many prophets who, when in
mortality, had ministered to a people called Nephites, a branch of the house of
Israel, formerly inhabiting this land. The Nephites were the civilized ancestors of
the degenerate Lamanites, or American Indians. The writings of these prophets,
compiled and abridged by Mormon, the father of Moroni, had been buried in a hill
anciently called Cumorah, in which place of deposit the youthful prophet,
directed by the angel, discovered them...
1911-3: “What The Mormons Believe,” by Elder Charles W. Penrose, Printed and
Published at the Millennial Star Office, 295 Edge Lane, Liverpool, 1911
Published at the Millennial Star Office, 295 Edge Lane, Liverpool, 1911
On the 21st of September, 1823,...he [Jos Smith] was visited in his chamber by...a
messenger sent by God to reveal to him the place of deposit of a record of the
ancient inhabitants of the American continent… p. 6
---
The Book of Mormon
[This record]...contains an account of two colonies from the Eastern hemisphere,
directed to the Western continent by the Almighty,...It gives particulars of their
growth into nations,...,their wars and contentions,...their subsequent decay, the
destruction of their great edifices by earthquake and fire, their ultimate decent
to the barbarism of the tribes of the American Indians, who were found upon
this continent when it was discovered in comparatively modern times....
p.7-8 my emphasis
***********************************************
References & Accompanying Content for 1912
1912-1: “History of the Mexican Mission,” by [Elder] Rey L. Pratt, President of the
Mission, April 1912 Improvement ERA, Vol. XV-No. 6, p.486
On the 5th day of November, 1879, Elder Moses Thatcher, of the Quorum of
Twelve Apostles...arrived in the city of Mexico, having come for the purpose of
establishing a Mission of the COJCOLDS, among the Lamanites of that land.
Immediately they set to work, and their labors very soon bore fruit,... p. 486
my emphasis
1912-2: "THE LATTER-DAY PROPHET," Young People’s History of Joseph
Twelve Apostles...arrived in the city of Mexico, having come for the purpose of
establishing a Mission of the COJCOLDS, among the Lamanites of that land.
Immediately they set to work, and their labors very soon bore fruit,... p. 486
my emphasis
1912-2: "THE LATTER-DAY PROPHET," Young People’s History of Joseph
Smith,” by George Q. Cannon, Deacons’ Quorum Edition, Issued Under the
Direction of the General Authorities of the Church 1912
Chapter XII. 1830
About a month after the conference [of September 1830] the Lord
revealed through Joseph that Parley P. Pratt and Ziba Peterson would go
on a mission with Oliver Cowdery and Peter Whitmer, Jr., to preach the
gospel to the Lamanites…
They set out preaching where they had a chance...They visited the
Cattaraugus Indians, near Buffalo, New York… p. 52 my emphasis
-----
-----
After spending two or three weeks at Kirtland they journeyed on...They
preached to the Wyandots, a tribe of Indians living in Ohio...and at length
reached Independence, Jackson County, a small town of the western border of
Missouri. They passed on to what is now the state of Kansas and preached to
Missouri. They passed on to what is now the state of Kansas and preached to
the Delaware Indians until expelled by government agents. p. 53 my emphasis
*********************************************
References & Accompanying Content for 1913
1913-1: “The Young Woman's Journal,” Organ of the Young Ladies’ Mutual
Improvement Association, Published by the General Board of the Young Ladies
Mutual Improvement Association of Zion, Volume XXIV, The Deseret News 1913
https://contentdm.lib.byu.edu/digital/collection/YWJ/id/20286/rec/24
Improvement Association, Published by the General Board of the Young Ladies
Mutual Improvement Association of Zion, Volume XXIV, The Deseret News 1913
https://contentdm.lib.byu.edu/digital/collection/YWJ/id/20286/rec/24
Teachings of the Book of Mormon, Lesson I., The Book of Mormon.
The peoples of Central America, of Mexico, of North America, and of South
America, who were discovered by the Europeans in the dawn of our modern
life, were all descended from the Lamanites and Nephites of Book of
Mormon days. p. 444 my emphasis
America, who were discovered by the Europeans in the dawn of our modern
life, were all descended from the Lamanites and Nephites of Book of
Mormon days. p. 444 my emphasis
Questions.
6. From whom were the native races of the Americas descended?
1913-2: “Course of Study for the Quorums of Priesthood of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints,” Deacons-Fourth Year, Prepared and Issued under the Direction
of the General Authorities of the Church, Remember that the Improvement Era
is the Organ of the Priesthood Quorums. Read it. The ERA radiates the spirit of the
gospel in every page.
https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=njp.32101074888064;view=1up;seq=3Latter-day Saints,” Deacons-Fourth Year, Prepared and Issued under the Direction
of the General Authorities of the Church, Remember that the Improvement Era
is the Organ of the Priesthood Quorums. Read it. The ERA radiates the spirit of the
gospel in every page.
Lesson 23. Prophecies of Heber C. Kimball.
Elder Jacob Hamblin leaves the following on record:
At the April Conference I, with others, was called on a mission to the Indians in
Southern Utah, in 1854….
Southern Utah, in 1854….
Brother Kimball prophesied in this meeting [with Brigham Young] that a road would
be made from Harmony over the Black Ridge, and a Temple would be built on the
Rio Virgin, and the Lamanites would come from the east side of the Colorado
River and get their endowments in it. All these prophecies have been fulfilled.
p.79
be made from Harmony over the Black Ridge, and a Temple would be built on the
Rio Virgin, and the Lamanites would come from the east side of the Colorado
River and get their endowments in it. All these prophecies have been fulfilled.
p.79
1913-3: 1913 October [General] Conference Report, Elder Rey L. Pratt, pp. 47-50
I speak in regard to the Mexican mission. I trust that you will bear with me if I call
your attention to something that is being done in that mission, among the seed of
Lehi, those that we declare are Lamanites….We have on our record books
something over 1600 names [in the Mexican mission],... p. 47
Lehi, those that we declare are Lamanites….We have on our record books
something over 1600 names [in the Mexican mission],... p. 47
The Lamanites are not only the Indians who live in the United States of America,
and in Canada, but the Lamanite people extend from Alaska to Patagonia. They
are descendants of Father Lehi, and his rebellious sons that turned away from
the truth, and incurred the curse of God and became what they are, the native
races that exist, as I said, from Patagonia on the south to Alaska on the north.
They are all Lamanites...Time is not sufficient, this morning, to go into a detailed
description of all that has befallen the Lamanite races of America; it is sufficient to
say that the Gentiles did go into Mexico, particularly, and did there crush the
Lamanites, and have brought them down even to a remnant,... p. 48
and in Canada, but the Lamanite people extend from Alaska to Patagonia. They
are descendants of Father Lehi, and his rebellious sons that turned away from
the truth, and incurred the curse of God and became what they are, the native
races that exist, as I said, from Patagonia on the south to Alaska on the north.
They are all Lamanites...Time is not sufficient, this morning, to go into a detailed
description of all that has befallen the Lamanite races of America; it is sufficient to
say that the Gentiles did go into Mexico, particularly, and did there crush the
Lamanites, and have brought them down even to a remnant,... p. 48
A great many say that nothing under the sun can redeem the Lamanites of
Mexico…p. 49
Mexico…p. 49
Every young man I have known who has gone to that mission [the Mexican
mission] has come back better in his soul for having come in contact with the
Lamanite people. p. 49
mission] has come back better in his soul for having come in contact with the
Lamanite people. p. 49
The work of preaching the Gospel among the Lamanites is dear to me. p. 50
1913-4: "The Gospel to the Lamanites,” by Ray L. Pratt, April 1913 Improvement
1913-4: "The Gospel to the Lamanites,” by Ray L. Pratt, April 1913 Improvement
ERA
III--The Lamanites After the Coming of the Europeans.
The history of the Indian, or Lamanite, since the coming of the Gentiles among
them, is the saddest it has ever been my lot to study….
My readers are as well acquainted, perhaps, with the history of the Indians
within the confines of the United States, commonly called the North American
Indians… p. 579 my emphasis
*********************************************
References & Accompanying Content for 1914
1914-1: “The Story of Mormonism and The Philosophy of “Mormonism,” by James
E. Talmage, Printed and Published by The Deseret News, SLC, 1914, Copyright
1914 by Joseph F. Smith, Trustee-in-Trust for the COJCOLDS
E. Talmage, Printed and Published by The Deseret News, SLC, 1914, Copyright
1914 by Joseph F. Smith, Trustee-in-Trust for the COJCOLDS
Preface
..The “Story” [of Mormonism] first appeared in print as a lecture report in the
Improvement Era, and was afterward issued as a booklet, from the office of
the Millennial Star, Liverpool...
Improvement Era, and was afterward issued as a booklet, from the office of
the Millennial Star, Liverpool...
The Message of Moroni--The American Aborigines
...Sometime after this visitation [the “First Vision”],...he [Joseph Smith Jun.] was
visited by...Moroni, a messenger sent from the presence of God...The angel
then announced that an ancient record, engraven on plates of gold, lay hidden
in a hill nearby, which record gave a history of the nations that had of old
inhabited the American continent,...
visited by...Moroni, a messenger sent from the presence of God...The angel
then announced that an ancient record, engraven on plates of gold, lay hidden
in a hill nearby, which record gave a history of the nations that had of old
inhabited the American continent,...
The record proved to be an account of certain colonies of immigrants to this
hemisphere from the east, who came several centuries before the Christian era.
The principal company was led by one Lehi,...who had formerly lived at
Jerusalem...and who had left his eastern home about 600 B.C…[The colony
divided] into factions, which became later two great nations at enmity with one
another. One part...designated themselves Nephites; the other faction...were
known as Lamanites.
hemisphere from the east, who came several centuries before the Christian era.
The principal company was led by one Lehi,...who had formerly lived at
Jerusalem...and who had left his eastern home about 600 B.C…[The colony
divided] into factions, which became later two great nations at enmity with one
another. One part...designated themselves Nephites; the other faction...were
known as Lamanites.
...the people [Nephites] were continually moving to escape the depredations of
their hereditary foes, the Lamanites;...
their hereditary foes, the Lamanites;...
Before their more powerful foes, the Nephites dwindled and fled; until about the
year 400 A.D. they were entirely annihilated after a series of decisive battles, the
last of which was fought near the very hill, called Cumorah, in the state of
New York, where the hidden record was subsequently revealed to Joseph Smith.
year 400 A.D. they were entirely annihilated after a series of decisive battles, the
last of which was fought near the very hill, called Cumorah, in the state of
New York, where the hidden record was subsequently revealed to Joseph Smith.
The Lamanites….afterward discovered by Columbus and named the
American Indians. p. 12-15 my emphasis.
American Indians. p. 12-15 my emphasis.
Work among the Lamanites
...The Book of Mormon had taught the people the true origin and destiny of the
American Indians; and toward this dark-skinned remnant of a once mighty
people, the missionaries of “Mormonism” early turned their eyes, and with their
eyes went their hearts and their hopes.
American Indians; and toward this dark-skinned remnant of a once mighty
people, the missionaries of “Mormonism” early turned their eyes, and with their
eyes went their hearts and their hopes.
Within three months of the beginning, the Church had missionaries among the
Lamanites. It is notable that the Indian tribes have generally regarded the
religion of the Latter-day Saints with favor, seeing in the Book of Mormon striking
agreement with their own traditions pp. 25-26 my emphasis
Lamanites. It is notable that the Indian tribes have generally regarded the
religion of the Latter-day Saints with favor, seeing in the Book of Mormon striking
agreement with their own traditions pp. 25-26 my emphasis
1914-2: “Gospel Themes; A Treatise on Salient Features of "Mormonism," Written
for, and Dedicated to the High Priests, Seventies and Elders of the Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=njp.32101069183299;view=1up;seq=7
for, and Dedicated to the High Priests, Seventies and Elders of the Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=njp.32101069183299;view=1up;seq=7
Preface and Dedication.
This little book was written and compiled at the request of the General Priesthood
Committee, under the sanction of the First Presidency of the Church, for the use
and benefit of Priesthood Classes, throughout the Stakes and Wards of Zion.
Committee, under the sanction of the First Presidency of the Church, for the use
and benefit of Priesthood Classes, throughout the Stakes and Wards of Zion.
Chapter III. To the Ends of the Earth.
Lehi and His Colony.--Just before that disaster, Lehi and his colony left Jerusalem,
and crossed over to this land--America--which, by them and by Mulek’s colony that
came later, was peopled with the descendants of Joseph and of Judah, both of
whom are represented, in a degenerate state, by the American Indians.
and crossed over to this land--America--which, by them and by Mulek’s colony that
came later, was peopled with the descendants of Joseph and of Judah, both of
whom are represented, in a degenerate state, by the American Indians.
Israelitish Characteristics.--Look at the features of the Indian. Are they not
Jewish? Quite as strikingly so as that many of his customs and traditions are
Israelitish. Who, than the savage Lamanite, better understands the Mosaic Law
of retaliation… p. 155
1914-3: “The Restoration of the Gospel,” by Osborne J.P. Widtsoe
Jewish? Quite as strikingly so as that many of his customs and traditions are
Israelitish. Who, than the savage Lamanite, better understands the Mosaic Law
of retaliation… p. 155
1914-3: “The Restoration of the Gospel,” by Osborne J.P. Widtsoe
Priesthood Quorums’ Table, Distribution of Study Courses., Jan. 1914
Improvement ERA, p. 269, [This was the authorized or “official” manual for the
Priests’ Quorums in 1914]
Improvement ERA, p. 269, [This was the authorized or “official” manual for the
Priests’ Quorums in 1914]
The record [Book of Mormon] is, then, mainly the story of the ancient possession
of South and North America by the Nephites. Besides, the book tells of the
Lamanites--the brother descendants of the Nephites who remain to the
present as the American Indians...The Nephites themselves were descended
from an Israelitish family led from Jerusalem by the prophet Lehi, 600 years
before Christ. p. 49 my emphasis
1914-4: “Gospel Themes,” by Elder Orson F. Whitney, 1914
Preface and Dedication.
This little book was written and compiled at the request of the General
Priesthood Committee, under the sanction of the First Presidency of the
Church, for the use and benefit of the Priesthood Classes, throughout
the Stakes and Wards of Zion.
YAAJ&printsec=frontcover&source=kp_read_button#v=onepage&q&f=false
Distribution of Study Courses., Jan. 1914, Improvement Era, p. 269, [The
authorized manual for the Melchizedek Priesthood Quorums in 1914]
Chapter III.
Lehi and his Colony.--Lehi and his colony left Jerusalem, and crossed over to this
land--America--which, by them and by Mulek’s colony that came later, was peopled
with the descendants Joseph and of Judah, both of whom are represented, in a
degenerate state, by the American Indians. p. 155 my emphasis
degenerate state, by the American Indians. p. 155 my emphasis
*********************************************
References & Accompanying Content for 1915
1915-1: Conference Report April 1915, Orrin P. Miller
came into these valleys; nothing but a barren waste, not a beautiful shrub or a
tree, except the few that nature had produced, the valley being desolate and
barren, and the only human associate that they had, beside themselves, was
the Lamanite or native Indian; and the howl of the coyote was heard on the
plains and the prairies. p. 16 my emphasis
Official Announcement
“We desire that the work, Jesus the Christ, be read and studied by the Latter-day
Chapter 5
Notes to Chapter 40
5. The Mission of Columbus and Its Results.--Unto Nephi, son of Lehi, was
shown the future of his people, including the degeneracy of a branch thereof,
afterward known as Lamanites and in modern times as American
tree, except the few that nature had produced, the valley being desolate and
barren, and the only human associate that they had, beside themselves, was
the Lamanite or native Indian; and the howl of the coyote was heard on the
plains and the prairies. p. 16 my emphasis
1915-2: “Jesus The Christ,” by James E. Talmage, Published by the Church,
Copyright, 1915, by Joseph F. Smith Trustee-in-Trust for the Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints
Copyright, 1915, by Joseph F. Smith Trustee-in-Trust for the Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints
[“Official Announcement,” Sept. 1915 Improvement Era, Vol. 18-No. 11, p. 1011
Saints, in their families, and in the organizations that are devoted wholly or in
part to theological study. We commend it especially for use in our Church
schools, as also for the advanced theological classes in Sunday Schools and
priesthood quorums, for the instruction of our missionaries and for general
reading.”
part to theological study. We commend it especially for use in our Church
schools, as also for the advanced theological classes in Sunday Schools and
priesthood quorums, for the instruction of our missionaries and for general
reading.”
Joseph F. Smith,
Anthon H. Lund,
Charles W. Penrose
First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Salt Lake City, Utah, Aug. 13, 1915]
“...The Nephites suffered extinction about 400 A.D., but the Lamanites lived on
in their degraded course, and are today extant upon the land as the American
Indians.(g) p. 49 my emphasis
(g) Note 3, end of Chapter
Notes to Chapter 5 in their degraded course, and are today extant upon the land as the American
Indians.(g) p. 49 my emphasis
(g) Note 3, end of Chapter
3. Nephites and Lamanites.--...The Lamanites,...degenerated into the fallen
state in which the American Indians—their lineal descendants—were found by
those who rediscovered the western continent in later times. p. 56 my emphasis
Chapter 39state in which the American Indians—their lineal descendants—were found by
those who rediscovered the western continent in later times. p. 56 my emphasis
“...The red-skinned Lamanites reverted to their degraded ways,...For many
decades the Nephites retreated before their aggressive foes, making their way
north-eastward through what is now the United States. About 400 A.D. the last
great battle was fought near the hill Cumorah;b and the Nephite nation
became extinct.c The degenerate remnant of Lehi’s posterity, the Lamanites or
American Indians, have continued until this day...” p. 742 my emphasis
b Near Manchester, Ontario county, New York.decades the Nephites retreated before their aggressive foes, making their way
north-eastward through what is now the United States. About 400 A.D. the last
great battle was fought near the hill Cumorah;b and the Nephite nation
became extinct.c The degenerate remnant of Lehi’s posterity, the Lamanites or
American Indians, have continued until this day...” p. 742 my emphasis
Notes to Chapter 40
5. The Mission of Columbus and Its Results.--Unto Nephi, son of Lehi, was
shown the future of his people, including the degeneracy of a branch thereof,
afterward known as Lamanites and in modern times as American
Indians...The establishment of a great Gentile nation on the American
continent, the subjugation of the Lamanites or Indians,... p. 757 my emphasis
continent, the subjugation of the Lamanites or Indians,... p. 757 my emphasis
*********************************************
References & Accompanying Content for 1916
1916-1: “Are We Of Israel?,” by Elder George George Reynolds, Third Edition,
Deseret Sunday School Union 1916, Copyright by Joseph F. Smith for the
Deseret Sunday School Union
Chapter I.
...the believer in the Book of Mormon will point to its record and declare that in the
aborigines of North and South America, and of many of the Pacific Isles, we
find the seed of Joseph [father of Ephraim and Manasseh from the Old
Testament] grown into a multitude of tribes, peoples and nations. We thankfully
admit this truth, we can not contradict it, did we wish to do so. God has so
revealed it... p. 9 my emphasis
find the seed of Joseph [father of Ephraim and Manasseh from the Old
Testament] grown into a multitude of tribes, peoples and nations. We thankfully
admit this truth, we can not contradict it, did we wish to do so. God has so
revealed it... p. 9 my emphasis
1916-2: “A Young Folks’ History of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day
Saints,” by Nephi Anderson, Published by the Deseret Sunday School Union
1916, Copyright 1916, by Joseph F. Smith for the Deseret Sunday School Union
https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=njp.32101074888130;view=1up;seq=11
Saints,” by Nephi Anderson, Published by the Deseret Sunday School Union
1916, Copyright 1916, by Joseph F. Smith for the Deseret Sunday School Union
https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=njp.32101074888130;view=1up;seq=11
Chapter V. The Book of Mormon
The Lamanites kept driving the Nephites further north, until they reached what is
now the United States. Around a hill in the western part of the state of New
York, then called Cumorah, what was left of the Nephites gathered for the last
struggle. The Lamanites met them, and there was a great battle in which all but
a very few of the Nephites were killed. Thus ended the Nephite nation, not quite
400 years after Christ, and the Lamanites or Indians have lived there ever
since. p. 26 my emphasis
---
now the United States. Around a hill in the western part of the state of New
York, then called Cumorah, what was left of the Nephites gathered for the last
struggle. The Lamanites met them, and there was a great battle in which all but
a very few of the Nephites were killed. Thus ended the Nephite nation, not quite
400 years after Christ, and the Lamanites or Indians have lived there ever
since. p. 26 my emphasis
---
After Moroni had seen his people destroyed he hid all the records in the hill
Cumorah. p. 26 my emphasis
Cumorah. p. 26 my emphasis
Chapter X. The Mission to the Indians
You will remember that the Book of Mormon tells about the early history of the
Indians. In this book it is predicted that some day the gospel would be preached to
them, and the record of their forefathers should also be brought to their knowledge.
At the second conference of the Church held in Fayette, September 1st, Oliver
Cowdery, Parley P. Pratt, Ziba Peterson and Peter Whitmer, Jr., were called to go
on a mission to the Indians. They were to go...through the western states
and into Indian Territory,... [D&C…]
Indians. In this book it is predicted that some day the gospel would be preached to
them, and the record of their forefathers should also be brought to their knowledge.
At the second conference of the Church held in Fayette, September 1st, Oliver
Cowdery, Parley P. Pratt, Ziba Peterson and Peter Whitmer, Jr., were called to go
on a mission to the Indians. They were to go...through the western states
and into Indian Territory,... [D&C…]
It was late in October when these four Elders started on this the first important
mission of the Church. They preached to some Indians near the city of
Buffalo,...p. 42 my emphasis
https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=njp.32101074888130;view=1up;seq=54
---
mission of the Church. They preached to some Indians near the city of
Buffalo,...p. 42 my emphasis
https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=njp.32101074888130;view=1up;seq=54
---
In western Ohio the missionaries found another tribe of Indians with whom
they stayed a few days…The missionaries therefore walked...across the state of
Missouri to its western boundary. At last they reached the town of
Independence, in Jackson county, Missouri, which was then near to Indian
country.
they stayed a few days…The missionaries therefore walked...across the state of
Missouri to its western boundary. At last they reached the town of
Independence, in Jackson county, Missouri, which was then near to Indian
country.
The elders now took up their labors among the Indians. They were kindly
received, and the chief called a counsel, which Oliver Cowdery addressed...
p. 44 my emphasis
received, and the chief called a counsel, which Oliver Cowdery addressed...
p. 44 my emphasis
1916-3: “Course of Study for the Quorums of Priesthood of Jesus Christ of Latter-
day Saints,” Deacons-1916, Prepared and Issued under the Direction of the
General Authorities of the Church, Remember that the Improvement ERA is the
Organ of the Priesthood Quorums. Read it. The ERA radiates the spirit of the
gospel in every page.
day Saints,” Deacons-1916, Prepared and Issued under the Direction of the
General Authorities of the Church, Remember that the Improvement ERA is the
Organ of the Priesthood Quorums. Read it. The ERA radiates the spirit of the
gospel in every page.
Lesson Twenty-Five. Gospel Gifts Enjoyed.
Elder Jacob Hamblin leaves the following on record:
At the April Conference I, with others, was called on a mission to the Indians in
Southern Utah, in 1854….
Southern Utah, in 1854….
Brother Kimball prophesied in this meeting [with Brigham Young] that a road would
be made from Harmony over the Black Ridge, and a Temple would be built on the
Rio Virgin, and the Lamanites would come from the east side of the Colorado
River and get their endowments in it. All these prophecies have been fulfilled.
p. 79
be made from Harmony over the Black Ridge, and a Temple would be built on the
Rio Virgin, and the Lamanites would come from the east side of the Colorado
River and get their endowments in it. All these prophecies have been fulfilled.
p. 79
1916-4: “My Reasons for Joining the COJCOLDS,” by R.M. Bryce Thomas,
Printed and Published at the Millennial Star, Liverpool
https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=njp.32101074867829;view=1up;seq=3
Printed and Published at the Millennial Star, Liverpool
https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=njp.32101074867829;view=1up;seq=3
...the Book of Mormon, a book which contains the history of a colony of Israelites
of the tribe of Joseph (Ephraim) who left Jerusalem 600 years B.C., and came
to America, and who afterwards multiplied very rapidly and grew into two great
nations called the Nephites and the Lamanites. The latter after many years of
warfare eventually exterminated the former, owing to the fact that the Nephites
had departed from the commandments of God, but the Lamanites had
themselves become, even before they had destroyed the Nephites, a dark and
benighted people, under a curse from God on account of their gross iniquities
and infidelity.* p. 28 my emphasis
*These Lamanites are American Indians, and belong to the tribe of Ephraim and are
therefore Israelites.
therefore Israelites.
The voice of the ancient prophets and seers of the tribe of Ephraim (the
Lamanites or American Indians) has now at last spoken out of the dust* in
the discovery of their writings on the plates of gold, which had been buried in
the hill Cumorah, and they testify to Christ… pp. 29-30
*Isaiah 29: 4
Lamanites or American Indians) has now at last spoken out of the dust* in
the discovery of their writings on the plates of gold, which had been buried in
the hill Cumorah, and they testify to Christ… pp. 29-30
*Isaiah 29: 4
1916-5: “Jesus the Christ,” December 1915 Improvement ERA, p. 181
https://archive.org/stream/improvementera1902unse#page/180
Dr. James E. Talmage’s book, Jesus the Christ, has been adopted by the
Dr. James E. Talmage’s book, Jesus the Christ, has been adopted by the
Committee on Class Study, for 1916. It will be used for all the Melchizedek
priesthood quorums, and likely also for the Priests.
Chapter 5
“...The Nephites suffered extinction about 400 A.D., but the Lamanites lived on
in their degraded course, and are today extant upon the land as the American
Indians.(g) p. 49 my emphasis
(g) Note 3, end of ChapterNotes to Chapter 5
3. Nephites and Lamanites.--...The Lamanites,...degenerated into the fallen
state in which the American Indians—their lineal descendants—were found by
those who rediscovered the western continent in later times. p. 56 my emphasis
Chapter 39
“...The red-skinned Lamanites reverted to their degraded ways,...For many
decades the Nephites retreated before their aggressive foes, making their way
north-eastward through what is now the United States. About 400 A.D. the last
great battle was fought near the hill Cumorah;b and the Nephite nation
became extinct.c The degenerate remnant of Lehi’s posterity, the Lamanites or
American Indians, have continued until this day...” p. 742 my emphasis
b Near Manchester, Ontario county, New York.
Notes to Chapter 40
5. The Mission of Columbus and Its Results.--Unto Nephi, son of Lehi, was
shown the future of his people, including the degeneracy of a branch thereof,
afterward known as Lamanites and in modern times as American
Indians...The establishment of a great Gentile nation on the American
continent, the subjugation of the Lamanites or Indians,... p. 757 my emphasis
1916-6: “The Book of Mormon, What The Record Contains,” July 4, 1916
Liahona, the Elders’ Journal, Vol. 14-No. 1
https://dcms.lds.org/delivery/DeliveryManagerServlet?dps_pid=IE60163Liahona, the Elders’ Journal, Vol. 14-No. 1
In this important and interesting book the history of ancient America is
unfolded,...We are informed by these records that America in ancient times had
been inhabited by two distinct races of people….The second race came directly
from the city of Jerusalem, about six hundred years before Christ. They were
principally Israelites, of the descendants of Joseph….The principal nation of the
second race fell in battle towards the close of the fourth century. The remnant
are the Indians that now inhabit this country. p. 1 my emphasis
*********************************************
References & Accompanying Content for 1917
1917-1: “Fort Peck Reservation,” by Frank W. Warner, Lamanite Missionary,
Liahona: The Elders’ Journal 14.34 (February 20, 1917)
https://dcms.lds.org/delivery/DeliveryManagerServlet?dps_pid=IE60163
Liahona: The Elders’ Journal 14.34 (February 20, 1917)
https://dcms.lds.org/delivery/DeliveryManagerServlet?dps_pid=IE60163
Thinking an article from this part of the Lord’s vineyard would be of interest, I take
pleasure in sending to the world a “Whisper from the Fort Peck Mission among
the Lamanites.”...While on our trip through the reservations the last week, we
noticed vast improvements….There are many comfortable homes on the
reservation that are being built by the Lamanites.
the Lamanites.”...While on our trip through the reservations the last week, we
noticed vast improvements….There are many comfortable homes on the
reservation that are being built by the Lamanites.
We have certainly enjoyed our labors among this people,...They listen to our
rehearsal of the beautiful things contained in the Book of Mormon. There is
something in this book that appeals to them and seems to bring some kind of
recollection to them of their forefathers.
rehearsal of the beautiful things contained in the Book of Mormon. There is
something in this book that appeals to them and seems to bring some kind of
recollection to them of their forefathers.
The writer is a short term missionary from Parker, Idaho, and is a full blood
Lamanite of the Shoshone Tribe. pp. 533-34 my emphasis
Lamanite of the Shoshone Tribe. pp. 533-34 my emphasis
1917-2: 1917 Oct. [General] Conference Report, Elder Melvin J. Ballard,
pp.107-112
https://archive.org/stream/conferencereport1917sa#page/n107I had an experience a few months ago, while laboring on the Indian reservation,
in Northern Montana, among my Lamanite brethren and sisters,... p. 111
1917-3: “The Strength of the "Mormon" Position,” by Elder Orson F. Whitney,
Copyright 1917 by Joseph F. Smith, Trustee in Trust for the COJCOLDS,
Deseret News Press,
Copyright 1917 by Joseph F. Smith, Trustee in Trust for the COJCOLDS,
Deseret News Press,
Joseph Smith
This angel [Moroni] announced himself as the last of a line of prophets who had
ministered to an ancient people called Nephites, a branch of the house of
Israel...a portion of the tribe of Joseph. They had crossed over from Jerusalem
about the year 600 B.C., and, with a remnant of the tribe of Judah, which joined
them later, had inhabited the Americas down to about the beginning of the fourth
Christian Century. At that time the civilized though degenerate nation was
destroyed by a savage faction known as Lamanites, ancestors of the American
Indians. p. 7
ministered to an ancient people called Nephites, a branch of the house of
Israel...a portion of the tribe of Joseph. They had crossed over from Jerusalem
about the year 600 B.C., and, with a remnant of the tribe of Judah, which joined
them later, had inhabited the Americas down to about the beginning of the fourth
Christian Century. At that time the civilized though degenerate nation was
destroyed by a savage faction known as Lamanites, ancestors of the American
Indians. p. 7
*********************************************
References & Accompanying Content for 1918
1918-1: October 1918 Conference Report,, Apostle Orson F. Whitney, p. 39
There was an American prophet named Nephi. He came from Jerusalem six
hundred years before the birth of the Savior—came with his father, Lehi, and an
Israelitish colony, and both South and North America were eventually
peopled by their descendants. Those who followed Nephi were known as
Nephites, while a degenerate faction who had for their leader Nephi's brother
Laman, were termed Lamanites. These were the ancestors of the American
Indians my emphasis
hundred years before the birth of the Savior—came with his father, Lehi, and an
Israelitish colony, and both South and North America were eventually
peopled by their descendants. Those who followed Nephi were known as
Nephites, while a degenerate faction who had for their leader Nephi's brother
Laman, were termed Lamanites. These were the ancestors of the American
Indians my emphasis
1918-2: April, 1918 [General] Conference Report, Elder James W. Lesuer
https://archive.org/stream/conferencereport1918a/conferencereport881
I thought this afternoon it might be of interest to you to know what the Church is
doing for the Indians in Arizona.
doing for the Indians in Arizona.
We have living in our stake [Maricopa Stake] some three hundred members who
are Indians….I doubt if in all the Church there are any who live their religion more
strictly than do the Lamanites of the Maricopa Stake of Zion. pp. 118-119
are Indians….I doubt if in all the Church there are any who live their religion more
strictly than do the Lamanites of the Maricopa Stake of Zion. pp. 118-119
We have in our stake a High Councilman who is a Lamanite. We have an Indian
who is a Superintendent of the Sunday Schools, and a very faithful brother. We
have also a number of Indians who are faithful missionaries, and these faithful
Lamanites have done 100% ward teaching… p. 119
who is a Superintendent of the Sunday Schools, and a very faithful brother. We
have also a number of Indians who are faithful missionaries, and these faithful
Lamanites have done 100% ward teaching… p. 119
I take great joy in laboring among these Lamanite brethren and sisters, and there
are some ten or twelve thousand of them in Arizona. p.120
1918-3: “The Restoration of the Gospel,” by Osborne J.P. Widtsoe
[Priesthood Quorums’ Study, 1918, January 1918 Improvement ERA, p.270
There are two books for the Priests. The Great Apostasy [by Talmage]
is a supplementary work to be read preferably prior to or in
connection with the study of the regular textbook, The Restoration [by Widtsoe].]
The record [Book of Mormon] is, then, mainly the story of the ancient possession
of South and North America by the Nephites. Besides, the book tells of the
Lamanites--the brother descendants of the Nephites who remain to the
present as the American Indians...The Nephites themselves were descended
from an Israelitish family led from Jerusalem by the prophet Lehi, 600 years
before Christ. P.49 my emphasis
1918-4: “The Great Apostasy,” by James E. Talmage,
Published by The Deseret News, 1909
[Priesthood Quorums’ Study, 1918, January 1918 Improvement ERA, p.270
There are two books for the priests. The Great Apostasy [by Talmage] is a
supplementary work to be read preferably prior to or in connection with the
study of the regular text book, The Restoration [by Widtsoe].]
Chapter I. Notes.
5. Nephites and Lamanites. The Lamanites, while increasing in numbers, fell
under the curse of darkness; they became dark in skin and benighted in spirit,
forgot the God of their fathers, lived a wild nomadic life, and degenerated into the
fallen state in which the American Indians — their lineal descendants — were
found by those who rediscovered the western continent in later times. (The Author,
“Articles of Faith,” Lect. 14: 7,8.) p. 17 my emphasis
1918-5: “The Gospel Among the Lamanites,” Feb. 1918 Relief Society Mag.,
Organ of the Relief Society of the COJCOLDS
The Lamanites are surely awakening to the need of the gospel of Jesus
Christ in their life...It may surprise some of our readers to know that we have
already five Lamanite Relief Societies, located in the Northwestern States
Mission, Idaho, Utah, Arizona, and Canada. p. 74 my emphasis
1918-6: “Lo, the Poor, Rich Indian,” Subtitle: “Half-Brother to the Jew
and the Emphramite,” November 1918 Relief Society Magazine
The Indian races in the United States still occupy a somewhat anomalous
position…
position…
The student of the Book of Mormon understands perfectly the nature and
condition of these people. They are the descendants of two rebellious sons
of Lehi, Laman and Lemuel, who were cursed with a dark skin because of
their disobedience…
All of the promises made to their forefathers in the sacred record of their
ancestors [the Book of Mormon] upon this continent--promises which were
reiterated in these days by the Prophet Joseph Smith at various times and under
varying circumstances--point to a period when these single minded and virtuous
peoples shall be prepared to accept the gospel of Jesus Christ en masse , as it
were...Will the Indian...use his agency in choosing the good rather than the evil?
Prophecy has said he will, and upon that prophecy Latter-day Saints rest their
varying circumstances--point to a period when these single minded and virtuous
peoples shall be prepared to accept the gospel of Jesus Christ en masse , as it
were...Will the Indian...use his agency in choosing the good rather than the evil?
Prophecy has said he will, and upon that prophecy Latter-day Saints rest their
confident hopes, and offer up their daily prayers in behalf of their Lamanite
friends. p. 603-604 my emphasis
1918-7: “The Washakie Relief Society,” July 1918 Relief Society Magazine
We close this recital with the following brief report of our oldest Indian or
Lamanite reorganization:
The Washakie Relief Society
The Relief Society of Washakie was organized on the 20th of May, 1883,
by Apostle Lorenzo Snow…
Very few of the Lamanite sisters understood the English language,
but assisted by I.E.D. Zundell, at that time the interpreter and Bishop of that
ward, the Relief Society worked faithfully and were successful in starting the
great Relief work among the Lamanite sisters.
[A photo appears at the bottom of page 387 showing 25 women and children.
They would seem to be mostly Indians because of their dark complexion.]
Under this photo it reads:
WASHAKIE INDIAN RELIEF SOCIETY
As the Lamanites are very quick to understand they began to take a great
interest in the Relief Society work, especially in ministering to the wants of their
kindred. p. 387 my emphasis
*********************************************
References & Accompanying Content for 1919
1919-1: “The Treaty of Peace---Restoration of the Gospel,” by President Heber J.
Grant December, 1919, Improvement ERA, Vol. XXXIII, No. 2
An Important Anniversary
This angel [Moroni] delivered a message to Joseph Smith, and told him that in the
Hill Cumorah there were buried golden plates containing a record of the
forefathers of the American Indians. [the angel Moroni would not have told
Joseph, “...in the Hill Cumorah…” if it was, as so Mormon apologists suggest,
simply a hill in which the plates were buried.] p. 111
Hill Cumorah there were buried golden plates containing a record of the
forefathers of the American Indians. [the angel Moroni would not have told
Joseph, “...in the Hill Cumorah…” if it was, as so Mormon apologists suggest,
simply a hill in which the plates were buried.] p. 111
1919-2: “A Young Folks’ History of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day
Saints,” by Nephi Anderson, Published by the Deseret Sunday School Union
1919, Copyright 1919 by David O. McKay for the Deseret Sunday School Union
Saints,” by Nephi Anderson, Published by the Deseret Sunday School Union
1919, Copyright 1919 by David O. McKay for the Deseret Sunday School Union
Chapter V. The Book of Mormon
The Lamanites kept driving the Nephites further north, until they reached what is
now the United States. Around a hill in the western part of the state of New York,
then called Cumorah, what was left of the Nephites gathered for the last struggle.
The Lamanites met them, and there was a great battle in which all but a very few of
the Nephites were killed. Thus ended the Nephite nation, not quite 400 years after
Christ, and the Lamanites or Indians have lived there ever since. p. 27
my emphasis
---
now the United States. Around a hill in the western part of the state of New York,
then called Cumorah, what was left of the Nephites gathered for the last struggle.
The Lamanites met them, and there was a great battle in which all but a very few of
the Nephites were killed. Thus ended the Nephite nation, not quite 400 years after
Christ, and the Lamanites or Indians have lived there ever since. p. 27
my emphasis
---
After Moroni had seen his people destroyed he hid all the records in the hill
Cumorah, from which, as we have learned, Joseph Smith obtained them.
p. 27 my emphasis
Cumorah, from which, as we have learned, Joseph Smith obtained them.
p. 27 my emphasis
Chapter X. The Mission to the Indians
You will remember that the Book of Mormon tells about the early history of the
Indians. In this book it is predicted that some day the gospel would be preached to
them, and the record of their forefathers should also be brought to their knowledge.
At the second conference of the Church held in Fayette, September 1st, Oliver
Cowdery, Parley P. Pratt, Ziba Peterson and Peter Whitmer, Jr., were called to go
on a mission to the Indians. They were to go...through the western states
and into Indian Territory,... [D&C…]
Indians. In this book it is predicted that some day the gospel would be preached to
them, and the record of their forefathers should also be brought to their knowledge.
At the second conference of the Church held in Fayette, September 1st, Oliver
Cowdery, Parley P. Pratt, Ziba Peterson and Peter Whitmer, Jr., were called to go
on a mission to the Indians. They were to go...through the western states
and into Indian Territory,... [D&C…]
It was late in October when these four Elders started on this the first important
mission of the Church. They preached to some Indians near the city of
Buffalo,...p. 43 my emphasis
---
mission of the Church. They preached to some Indians near the city of
Buffalo,...p. 43 my emphasis
---
In western Ohio the missionaries found another tribe of Indians with whom
they stayed a few days…The missionaries therefore walked...across the state
of Missouri to its western boundary. At last they reached the town of
Independence, in Jackson county, Missouri, which was then near to Indian
country.
they stayed a few days…The missionaries therefore walked...across the state
of Missouri to its western boundary. At last they reached the town of
Independence, in Jackson county, Missouri, which was then near to Indian
country.
The elders now took up their labors among the Indians. They were kindly
received, and the chief called a counsel, which Oliver Cowdery addressed...
p. 45 my emphasis
1919-3: “Our Indian Cousins,” by C.L. Christensen,
1919-4: “Our Indian Cousins,” Subtitle: “The Fort Peck Indian Reservation,”
received, and the chief called a counsel, which Oliver Cowdery addressed...
p. 45 my emphasis
1919-3: “Our Indian Cousins,” by C.L. Christensen,
January 1919 Relief Society Magazine
In the October number of our Magazine we presented to our readers
the modern conditions surrounding our Lamanite cousins...There is no
lack of interest, however, in the past, present, and future, of this promised
seed of Israel...Since this Church was organized, great promises have
been made concerning the dusky descendants of Lehi--his sons Laman
and Lemuel--upon the two American continents. Quietly the Indians
are preparing for their destiny; quietly they have entered the Church in
gradually increasing numbers; and quietly; yet earnestly, such Indians
as are in the Church look forward...to the fulfilment of the promises
made to their fathers in the Book of Mormon. p. 33 my emphasis1919-4: “Our Indian Cousins,” Subtitle: “The Fort Peck Indian Reservation,”
by Elder Melvin J. Ballard, March 1919 Relief Society Magazine
The interpreter who was with the party [Apostle Melvin J. Ballard & missionaries],
explained that this old man [a 70 year old Indian] had seen the writer [Apostle
Melvin J. Ballard] in a dream some three years previous; saw him come to the
[Fort Peck] reservation, and heard him preach the only true gospel. Needless to
say that not only the poor old Indian was now in tears, but also we grateful
missionaries were now weeping, thankful to the Lord that he had given us such
a testimony. It was an evidence to us that we were engaged in the right work
and that the Lord was cooperating with us. This elderly Lamanite was baptized
as were many others. p. 144 my emphasis
1919-5: “Our Indian Cousins,” Catawba Red Cross by C.L. Christensen,
April 1919 Relief Society Magazine
Our Lamanite Sisters on the Catawba Indian Reservation are imbued with
the spirit of Relief Society work.
[A large photo appears in the middle of page 218 showing nine women. They
would seem to be Indians because of their dark complexion and the article’s title.]
Under this photo it reads:
CATAWBA RELIEF SOCIETY OFFICERS.
A local newspaper paid the following well deserved tribute to the war activities
of the Indian Relief Society members:
“THE INDIAN WOMEN SHOWING THEIR LOYALTY”
“The women of the Catawba Indian Reservation are showing their loyalty to
their country by doing knitting for the Red Cross… p. 218 my emphasis
*********************************************
References & Accompanying Content for 1920
1920-1: April 1920 [General] Conference Report, President Heber J. Grant, p.13
Indian…” my emphasis
“...an angel of God appeared and told him [Jos. Smith] there was buried in the
hill Cumorah some golden plates containing a record, a sacred record of the
forefathers of the American Indian,..." pp. 13-14 my emphasis
hill Cumorah some golden plates containing a record, a sacred record of the
forefathers of the American Indian,..." pp. 13-14 my emphasis
1920-2: “A Brief History of the COJCOLDS,” by Edward H. Anderson,
Published by the Missions of the COJCOLDS in United States, Copyrighted by
Joseph F. Smith (1920 Edition).
3: Mission to the Lamanites
Oliver Cowdery was...called to preach the gospel to the Lamanites [D&C 28: 8]
At a three days’ conference in Fayette; the second held in the Church, beginning
September 1, 1830....two revelations were given (Doctrine & Covenants Sections
30 & 31) calling a number of brethren on missions; and soon after its adjournment,
preparations were made for introducing the gospel to the Lamanites, or Indians,
in conformity with the revealed word.”** p. 31 my emphasis
September 1, 1830....two revelations were given (Doctrine & Covenants Sections
30 & 31) calling a number of brethren on missions; and soon after its adjournment,
preparations were made for introducing the gospel to the Lamanites, or Indians,
in conformity with the revealed word.”** p. 31 my emphasis
**Doctrine & Covenants Section 31.
The Indians, according to the belief of the Saints, which is founded upon the
statements of the Book of Mormon, are a branch of the House of Israel,...Hence,
the calling of missionaries,... to present the true gospel to them [Indians], together
with the Book of Mormon, a record of the hand-dealings of God with their
forefathers [from the Book of Mormon]. p. 31-32
statements of the Book of Mormon, are a branch of the House of Israel,...Hence,
the calling of missionaries,... to present the true gospel to them [Indians], together
with the Book of Mormon, a record of the hand-dealings of God with their
forefathers [from the Book of Mormon]. p. 31-32
The men selected by revelation* to perform this first distant mission, “to go into
the wilderness, through the western states, and into the Indian territory,” were
Oliver Cowdery, Peter Whitmer, Jr., Parley P. Pratt and Ziba Peterson. While
they were specially called to the Indians, they were nevertheless to preach,
whenever opportunity offered.
the wilderness, through the western states, and into the Indian territory,” were
Oliver Cowdery, Peter Whitmer, Jr., Parley P. Pratt and Ziba Peterson. While
they were specially called to the Indians, they were nevertheless to preach,
whenever opportunity offered.
Returning west, he [Parley Pratt] met, the Prophet Joseph at Manchester, being
soon thereafter called to fill the before-mentioned mission to the Lamanites or
Indians.
soon thereafter called to fill the before-mentioned mission to the Lamanites or
Indians.
p. 32 my emphasis
Late in October, the four Elders began their westward journey,...Near Buffalo,
they presented their interesting message to the Catteraugus Indians, giving
them copies of the Book of Mormon. They were kindly received by the red men…
p. 32-33 my emphasis
they presented their interesting message to the Catteraugus Indians, giving
them copies of the Book of Mormon. They were kindly received by the red men…
p. 32-33 my emphasis
At Sandusky, in western Ohio, the Wyandots [Indians] were visited, which tribe
rejoiced in the strange tidings revealed to them of their forefathers, and of the
restored gospel… p. 33 my emphasis
rejoiced in the strange tidings revealed to them of their forefathers, and of the
restored gospel… p. 33 my emphasis
At length, Independence, Jackson county, in the extreme western frontier of
Missouri, was reached…
Missouri, was reached…
Two of the brethren remained at tailor work in Independence, while Elders Pratt
and Cowdery crossed the frontier to the Indians, tarrying one night with the
Shawnees [Indians]; after which they crossed the Kansas River to the Delawares
[Indians]....After some hesitancy, on the part of the [Delaware] chief, a council was
called and Oliver Cowdery was permitted to address the Indians…
p. 34 my emphasis
and Cowdery crossed the frontier to the Indians, tarrying one night with the
Shawnees [Indians]; after which they crossed the Kansas River to the Delawares
[Indians]....After some hesitancy, on the part of the [Delaware] chief, a council was
called and Oliver Cowdery was permitted to address the Indians…
p. 34 my emphasis
