| 156 of the principal men of the church, came to my house, and taking a view of the large bottom in the bend of the river, and the beautiful prairies on the bluffs, came to the conclusion that it would be a handsome situation for a town. We therefore commenced surveying and laying off town lots, and locating government lands for many miles north of this place. This beautiful country with its flattering prospects drew in floods of emigrants. I had not less than thirty comers and goers through the day during the three summer months, and up to the last-mentioned date [last of October] there were upwards of two hundred houses built in this town, and also about forty families living in their wagons."
On June 28, 1838, a conference was held at Adam-ondi-ahman, for the purpose of organizing a stake. The following are the minutes of this organization as published in the history of Joseph Smith:-
"Adam-ondi-ahman, Missouri, Daviess County, June 28, 1838. A conference of elders and members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints was held in this place this day, for the purpose of organizing this stake of Zion, called Adam-ondi-ahman.
"The meeting convened at ten o'clock a. m., in the grove, near the house of Elder Lyman Wight.
"President Joseph Smith, Jr., was called to the chair, who explained the object of the meeting, which was to organize a Presidency and High Council, to preside over this stake of Zion, and attend to the affairs of the church in Daviess County.
"It was then motioned, seconded, and carried by the unanimous voice of the assembly, that President John Smith should act as President of the Stake of Adam-ondi-ahman.
"Reynolds Cahoon was unanimously chosen first counselor, and Lyman Wight second counselor.
"After prayer the Presidents ordained Elder Wight as second counselor.
"Vinson Knight was chosen acting Bishop pro tempore, by the unanimous voice of the assembly.
"President John Smith then proceeded to organize the High Council. The counselors were chosen according to the
(page 156) |
