Customer Reviews

Early Mormon Documents (Volume 4)

5 star:		(0)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This is the fourth in a five-volume set compiled by Dan Vogel. These primary source documents can be located elsewhere. However, it is quite convenient to have them all in a multi-volume collection. These sources are those which are rarely, if ever used by the LDS Church since many, if not most of these documents raise issues regarding early LDS history. The only criticism I have is that the organization of the documents is initially a bit confusing, but works fine once the compiler's system is understood.

Kay Burningham, Attorney

Author of "An American Fraud: One Lawyer's Case against Mormonism."

Volume 4 focuses on Mormon origins in Colesville and South Bainbridge, New York.

As per Volume 3, this book is primarily excerpts from personal diaries containing first hand accounts, half of which are contemporary and the other half recorded years afterwards (reminiscences).

Dan Vogel is a well known, non-Mormon historian. This collection is his attempt at publishing authentic historical accounts that are not common knowledge to the average inquirer, as well as containing excerpts from well known, published accounts.

From the Introduction:

"The following collection documents Joseph Smith's experiences as a treasure seer and laborer in Chenango and Broome Counties as well as his later activities as founder of the Church of Christ. The testimonies of the Knight and Stowell families--faithful converts--are of particular importance, as are the unfavorable statements of other residents. Non-resident sources, such as from Sidney Rigdon, bring additional information to Mormon studies. Miscellaneous civil documents pertaining to Joseph Smith's legal difficulties in 1826 and 1830 are also indispensable to understanding the hostilities engendered by Smith's activities as a treasure seer and later as a religious leader."