McCARL, Jesse

January the 17th Anno Domini one thousand Eight hundred and forty personally came before me Elisha Petty one of the Justices of the peace in and for the County of Pike in the State of Illinois Jesse MC Carl and being Sworn by me Deposeth and Saith that he Suffered loss and Damage in the State of Missouri in the years Anno Domini one thousand Eight hundred and thirty Eight and Nine in Consequnc of the oppression of the Government of that Stat he Saith that he was Born in the State of North Carolina and when Residing in the State of Missouri was Ordered by the Authorities of that State to leave Said State within Six months on pain of Death and he further Saith that he was not accused of any breach of the Laws of Missouri Neither is he Sensible of ever having Broken the Laws of Said State or of the United States and he Saith that in Consequence of Said illegal and unjust Order he was oliged to Sell his Real and part of his personal property under Value Viz Sixty acres of Land Entered and improved by him Self and for his own use on which he Suffered loss and Damage three hundred Dollars and loss and Damage on personal property including time and expence of leaving Said State two hundred and fifty Dollars total $550.00

Jesse X McCarl

[Sworn to before E. Petty, J.P., Pike Co., IL, 17 Jan 1840.]

MCAUL, John M.

The State of Illinois Adams County S.S. January 7th 1840

this day personly appeared before me William Laughlin a Justice of the peace within Said County, John M. Mcall who being duly sworn according to Law, Deposith and saith in 1838 Mooved to Livingston County Missouri. in Consequence of the decree of Gover[ner] was deprived of Cetisenship and Consider myself damaged 200 Dollars

John M. MCaul

[Sworn to before W. Laughlin, J.P., Adams Co., IL, 7 Jan 1840.]

McNELL, Emos

Handcock Co State of Illenois

I doe hereby testify that I moved to Carrol Co Mo not out of any pretence of religion as I did not profes any religion atall and there purchasd farm land for the benefit of my self and family and was sick and in less then two months I was notefied by a mob to leave there, and I went to carlton to get provision for my family was siezed and committed to Jail for an accusation of being friendly to the Mormons where they kept me seven days. and I was taken sick in Jail and sufferd agreat deal and they would not let me out, till I agreed to leave the Sta[te] they then gave me a pass to be out of the Co. in 24 hours or be shot which I did at the loss of my property this I tistefy this 4th day of Jan A D 1840[.] Also loss of property by moveing, purchas, and sicknes, being plunderd, robed and driven, five hundred Dollars

Emos McNell

[Sworn to before A. Monroe, J.P., Hancock Co., IL, 6 Jan 1840.]

MARSH, Eliphaz

Thereby certify that I lived in Davis county Missouri in March 1837 and was entitled to a preemption right for eighty ackers of Land on the fourth day of August 183[8] near as I can tell was driven from the bord at election and was not permited to vote on or bout the eight day of Nov was surrounded by a mob or malitia under the command of R. Wilson and compeled to give up my [————] two guns [————] and ordered to leave the county in ten day and in the Spring to leave the state of Missouri

Eliphaz Marsh

[Sworn to before D. H. Wells, J.P., Hancock Co., IL, 10 Jan 1840.]

MARTIN, Moses

Montrose Lee Co Iowa

On the sixeth day of March AD 1840 personaly appeared before me D. W. Kilbourn acting justice of the peace within and for said county Mosess Martin who being duly sworn deposeth and saith, that he lived in Missouri Caldwell Co from the first of Nov 1837 until April 1839 when he was driven from the state by governor Bogg’s exterminating orders; that when he came to Missou[ri] he bought forty acres of congress land and received a duplicate for a deed that he built a house and made improvements on the land. that in the month of Oct 1838 Capt Bogart of Ray Co with a mob of about 60 men fell on the south of Caldwell Co and burned some houses and took some of the citizens prisoners. from this time the citizens of that Co were forced to move their families into Farewest or near there in hopes of protection for their wives and little ones from the civil authority of the state but all in vain for it was one scene of plunder

then some time in Nov an armed force of 4 or 5 thousand encamped within a short distance south of Farwest under the command of generals Lucas Clark Atchison and others they posted their guards about the town then commenced breaking opening houses and plundering the inhabitants at this time he made his escape through the guard and went home that he see armed soldiers quartering ontheinhabitants without their leave that he see them (the soldiers) tare down the fence around corn fields and take corn without leave and left the fence down for the cattle to destroy the remainder that they killed cattle and hogs which belonged to the citizens of that place without remuneration that he also see thim take a waggon and harness from his fathirs door when forbiden to so, that Capt Bogarts company or a part of it came to his hous[e] and took to rifle which were never returned one was Lewis McCrosky another was Wm. Johnson of Ray Co that the mob or militia as they called themselves frequently visited my house in search of me somtimes in the nigt with pistols cocked in their hand examined every bed and avance in the house in search of me and I was obliged to leave my family and all that I had and seek an asylum in a land of strangers through the winter then I returned to family and was obliged to sell my possession and give up my duplicate to enable me to get my family out of the state for I was forced to do so by governor Boggs exterminating orders which caused me to loose much by being forced from my land improvements and other damages which I sustained by being forced away I estimate at five hundred dollars

for which I want redress and further this deponent saith not

Moses Martin

[Sworn to before D. W. Kilbourn, J.P., Lee Co., IA, 6 Mar 1840.]

MILES, J.S.

In the year of our Lord 1838 I lived in Daviess County Missouri where I purchased the betterments and rights of the settlers upon two quartir sections of land lying in that county for which I gave upwards of two hundred and fifty dollars both of which were purchased and in my possession before the 18th of June 1838 but in consequence of having to leave the state I have not proved up my claims or sold my possessions.

The same year I purchased a house in Caldwell county Mo. and I took it down and moved the logs into Far West and had partly raised it when the troops arrived there. they were quartered in town and burnt up my logs and boards and also the logs of one hundred houses or more according to my judgement, They also striped the town of rails. These troops came upon to Far West and lived upon us without our consent as far as my knowledge extends. I saw these troops shoot down three large fat hogs and then left them to rot on the ground I saw them lying there a week afterwards. I had two and a half acres of corn which these troops gathered and took away without my consent for which I have never reced any pay for

I have never heard of any law in Missouri authorising the calling forth of the militia in the way and manner they came to Far West about the first of Nov. 1838.

In Octr. 1838 just before a number of our people went from Far West to Daviess Co. to assist their brethren there in protecting themselveis against a large mob which rumor said was there, I heard Maj. Genl. Atchison of Clay Co. say to some of the people of Far West to go ahead and drive the mob away and take care of yourselves for it is of no use for me to call out my men as they will all turn against you. Genl. Atchison had previously been to Daviess Co. with a body of troops say from three to five hundred to quell a mob which had collected in Daviess Co. there and threatened our brethren, a portion of these troops were kept in Daviess Co. about three or four weeks after the main body of the mob had dispersed, for fear they would collect again.

I hereby certify that the above statements are correct according to the best of my knowledge and belief

[Sworn to before D. H. Wells, J.P., Hancock Co., IL, 3 Jan 1840.]

MILES, Mary K.

Some time after General Clark came to Caldwell with his troops. I was living about two miles from Far West and near to Mr Gad Yales, a number of General Clarks Troops came to Mr. Yales house and stopt their for about two Days and destroyed considerable property, they tore up both the floors of the House destroyed their poultry and hogs and set fire to [—] a Hay stack I Saw them set fire to the stack which was entirely destroyed, they took what Corn they wanted for their horses from Mr Yale and I believe he had about ten acres distroyed besides a Hay stack, this they did without leave from Mr Yale or any one who had any authority: The Hay stack which they set fire to belonged to Mr. Moss, some of the hogs which they shot down were left down to rot on the ground: I also saw some of the Malitia go into Mr. Syris Daniels house which they plundered. I saw them carry out one Bed, & bedding and some clothing.

I hereby Certify that the above statement is correct according to the best of my knowedge and belief

[Sworn to before D. H. Wells, J.P., Hanock Co., IL, 3 Jan 1840.]

MILES, Samuel

State of Missouri to Samuel Miles Dr

Samuel Miles

[Sworn to before C. M. Woods, C.C.C., Adams Co., IL, 18 (no month given) 1839.]

MILES, Samuel

At Far West in Oct. A. D. 1838 I heard Maj. Genl. Atchison of Clay Co. say to some of the inhabitants of Far West in reference to a mob that was collecting in Daviess Co. Missouri to go against the Latter day Saints in that place, that it was of no use for him to call out his men to put them down for says he they will turn against you therefore you had better take care of yourselves and disperse the mob.

I certify the above to be correct according to the best of my knowledge and belief.

[Sworn to before D. H. Wells, J.P., Hancock Co., IL, 3 Jan 1840.]

MILLS, Alexander

Lima Illinois Adams Co October the 22, AD, 1839

A Bill and Charge prefered against the State of Missouri for damages Sustained by me Alexander Mills while A Citizen of that State in 1838 by reason of the unlawful acts Committed on me and property by the Authorityes of the State

[Sworn to before J. Orr, J.P., Adams Co., IL, 8 Jan 1840.]

MINER, Albert

January 8th 1840

This is to certify to the wrongs and injuries I received in the State of Missouri

I arrived in Caldwell County Sept. 15th 1838 in the month of Oct. while in my way holm From mils with my team traveling peaceable in the highway two armed men came to me & told me I must go with them they took me to the camp of pretended Malitia & Cept. me three days in the mean time they took from me a fine horse also a [—] & threaten[ed] my lif without cause or provocation

Albert Miner

[Sworn to before J. Orr, J.P., Adams Co., IL, 8 Jan 1840.]

MOORE, Andrew

A bill Staiting the loss of property and damagees that I Sustained by the inhabitence of the State of Missouri, unlawfully. I emagrateed with my Famaly in the year 1834 from the State of Ohio to the sd State of Missouri with the expecation of resideing there, which, cost me one hundred dollars there I bought Land and paid for it in Clay County being compeled to leve there without any just caus or provication I lost on my land there one hundred and ten dollars, I remooved from Clay to Caldwell Co damages for remooveing from Clay to Coldwell one hundred and ten dollars, there I bought Land and made me afarm there being compeld to leve the State in 1838 I lost on Land Twelve hundred dollars, on Corn Cattle and other property two hundred dollars on Hoggs fifty dollars, two Rifle Guns thirty five dollars, one swaord eaight dollars. on 2 Town lots in Farwest one hundred dollars I was Seraunded and takeen and and cept under gard un lawfully six days-damagees twenty dollars loss of time and damagees for remooveing out of the State one thousand dollars, all with out any just caus or provication,

the amount of all the losses and damgees as nigh as I can asertain amounts to two thousand nine hundred and thirty three dollars

Andrew Moore

[Sworn to before J. M. Campbell, C.C.C., McDonough Co., IL, 25 Sep 1839.]

MORLEY, Isaac

Isaac Moreley

This is to Certify to the wrongs and injuris that I have Sustained in the State of Missouri

I moved into Jackson County in, 1831 where I lived in peace, untill, 1833, on the 20 of July, I was called to meet a Committee in Independance, at, A. S. Gilberts Store, composed of Robert Johnson, Moses G. Willson, James Camel, Joel, F. Childs Richard Fristoe, Abner Steeples Jan Johnson, Lewis Franklin, Russel M. Hicks, Samuel, D. Lucas Thomas Willson, James W. Hunter, and Richard Simpson-are the persons that met, A. S. Gilbert, J Corrill, W.W. Phelps, John Whitmer, E. Partridge, and I. Morely They requested us to leave the County forthwith, We told them that we should want a little time to consider upon the matter, they told us that we could have only fifteen minutes, we replyed to them that we could not comply with or consent to their proposals with in that time, one of them observed and said then I am Sorry I think it was Lewis Franklin Said he then, the work of destruction will then Commence Ammeadiately, they went out and Repared to the Court house, in Company I should think with 4 or 5 hundred men, we then returned home, and Shortly after I saw the printing Office leveled to the Ground, in a few days after, I saw a Company passing by my house, towards independance, with a Red Flag hoisted, I was called upon again, with a number of our Society, to meet them again, we then agreed to leave the Country, as individuals, they then promised us protection, on the following terms, that we should use our influence and that one half of our Society Should leave the County, by the first of January next and the Balance by the first April following, we then attended to our Circular Concerns until about the first of Novem. when they again Commenced to Commit Depredations on us, they Stone in my windows by night with rock exposing the lives of my family, about this time lieutenant Governor Boggs Came to my house and advised me if any of the Citizens Came and Destroyed any of my property by night if he was in my place he would return the Same injuries to them in the Dark, on the 3 of Novem. if I recolect the date news came to Several of us that they (the Mob) were destoying the goods of A. S Gilbert we then Ameadiately repared to the Store and though if posible to Save the property, we there took A Mr. McCartey in the act of plundering the Goods, Several then took him before Esq. Weston and Said they requested a warrent but he would not give them one, they then let McCartey go on the fourth, they took me a prisioner with several others, at evening they took us to the Court house for trial we had Just taken and Sent, for arresting McCartey when a party Came in Swearing they would take the lives of the prisioners the Court then ameidiately orderd us to be put into Joal where Lewis Franklin the Jailor turned the key upon us after Consulting upon our Situation, A. S. Gilbert J. Corrill and I Morley requested the priveledge of the Sherriff and Jailor to go and Council with our friends what would be best for us to do they Consented and went with us, and we agreed to leave the County forth with about Eleven O Clock we returned to the prison where we were met with a company of men one of them hailed us Saying who Comes there, the Sheriff answered a friend clothed with Authority, one of them answered Dam you you have no business out with the Prisioners at this time a night and we will Shoot you at the Same time I heard them Cock their guns, I then turnd upon my heal and run a few paces they then fired upon us. Just as the day dawned I went into the house of the Jaylor he asked me how I dared to be there, I told him I was not Sensible of doing any thing wrong, he Said I was in danger I told him I was a prisioner and that if he had any thing to do with me he Could do it he then took me to prision and turned the key upon me, when the Sun was about one hour high in the morning he Came and told us we were at liberty, we then returned home and on the Same day Colonel Pitcher Came out with a pretended Malitia and Compeled our people to deliver up their arms to them, on the 11 I removed my family into Clay County, where we lived until April, 1837. I then removed with my family to Caldwell County, I there purchased two, 80, Acres of Government land for my own use also a City lot in far West where I built me a comfortable house and lived in it until 1838, when we received the exterminating orders from Governor Boggs the troops arrived on the Evening of the 30 of October and on the first day of Novem. we were called upon to deliver up our arms on the day we were Called together By order of General Clark Commander in Chief he ordered our people to form a hollow square the General with Several other Officers went into the Square he then Called upon me together with about fifty of my Brethren to walk into the hollow Square General Clark then addressed those who Compased the hollow Square as follows, gentleman you are now at Liberty to go and Settle up your Business and prepare to leave the State and not think to raise another Crop in this County or State and as for those that I have Called into the Square I will make a public example of them, he then told us we were prisioners he Set a Strong guard over us, and placed us in a Store house for the night, the next morning we were taken out and conducted by a strong guard to Richmond to Receive our trial where we weredetained until Novem. 24the, 1838, then I was discharged by Judge King there being no Cause of action found against me all of this abuse and false imprisionment I received without a legal process also I was Commanded to leave the State by order of General Clark

Isaac Morley

[Sworn to before J. Orr, J.P., Adams Co., IL, 9 Jan 1840.]

MORRISON, Arthur

Quincy Illinois January 9th AD 1840

I do hereby Cirtify that I owned a tract of land in Caldwell County Missouri, it being the South 1/2 of the S.W. qu of the S.W. qu of Section 34 township fifty seven N of the base line and W. of the fifth principal Meriden No twenty four, it being Entered by Edward Larkey, and from which I have been driven by the Exterminating order of Governor Boggs, and also owned another tract of land in the same County being the N.W. qu of the N. E. qu of Sec 8, Townsh[ip] fifty six N of the base line and west of the fifth Principal Meriden range No Twenty Nine Containing 40 acres, which I am also deprived of and have been exiled from and driven from the state. I also cirtify that I was present at the reading of the Gover[nor’s] order at Far west, by General Lucas, and heard Lucas say that if Joseph Smith Jr. with a number of others was not given up to them, that the city of far-West would be consumed by fire and that it with its contents would soon be in ashes, and General Clark took posession of my storehouse without leave and quartered his men prisoners in it to my annoyance, and that Umbeson Lyons took about 1000 Dollas worth of goods from me by force and for which I have received no compensation, the above is a true statement of facts to the best of my recollection

Arthur Morrison

[Sworn to before C. M. Woods, C.C.C., Adams Co., IL, 9 Jan 1840.]

MUNJAR, Elizabeth C.

State of Illinois Adams County SS January 7th 1840

This day personally appeard before me Wm. Laughlin a Justice of the peace within said county Elizabeth C. Munjar [Duly] Sworn according to Law Deposeth and saith that in the year 1833 she became a Citizen of Jackson Co, Missouri. and was driven from there to Clay County by a Mob. and Suffered Considerable from Exposure & lived in Clay County a short Time & whilst liveing in Clay was sent to liberty on an erand for my mother and on my return Home I was Chased by one of the Male Citizen of Liberty whose name was Wood, who Talked Very insulting to me and was driven from thence to Caldwell sufferd Very Considerable there in the time of the Militia, and finally was obliged by the Exterminating Decree of the Governer to Leave the state.

Elizabeth C. X Munjar

[Sworn to before W. Laughlin, J.P., Adams Co., IL, 8 Jan 1840.]

MUNJAR, William

The State of Illinois Adams County SS January 7th 1840

this day personally appear before me William Laughlin a Justice of the peac within Said County, William Munjar, in 1833 bicame a Citizen of Jackson County Missouri I made an Improvement On Government Land & was Compelled to Leave there by The Orders of Col. pitsher went from thence to Clay County And became a [Renter], & then was Compelled to moove from there to Caldwell County Then Settled down on Congress Land and made an Improvement and Kept peacable possession untill the fall 1838 And was Exterminated from the State by the Orders of General Clark and Others on our way from Caldwell to Illinois was Obliged to Leave our waggons and familys and flee to the woods for safety

William Munjar

[Sworn to before W. Laughlin, J.P., Adams Co., IL, 7 Jan 1840.]

MURDOCK, John

This is to certify that I John Murdock being a member of the Church of Crist of Latter day Saints Removed my family to the State of Missouri Shoal Creek afterwards Caldwell Co in the Summer of eighteen hundred & thirty Six & in July the year following I entered forty acres of land the Duplicate of which I cause to accompany this as proof of the Same the in August or Sep following I entered annother forty in the Same office the No of which I have forgoten & the Duplicate was unlawfully arrested from me & being forced from the State have not had the opportunity of Getting the [con]tent out of the Office. In the Summer of Eighteen hundred & thirty eight I removed to Dewett Carrell Co having previously bought a part of the town platt in company with G M Hinkel. In quite the last part of July 1838 the people of Carroll Co having held a meeting Sent a committee of three men to visit us Abbott Handcock was chief Speaker of the three being a Cumberland Presbyterian Priest also John Smart & another man I do not recollect His name Mr. Handcock ordered Mr. Hinkel & myself & all the Mormons to leave the County by the 7th of August I asked Mr. Hancock by wat authority he did so he said by the authority of Carrell Co. About the 19th of August Pierce Hawley came into Dewett apparrently frightned & Said he had been a prisoner all night by a mob of 60 or 70 who were within 4 miles of town & would be upon us in two hours & his orders was to be out of town in two hours he said but Mr Robert Seelly a friend of ours rode out to see them & learned that the Sheriff of the co was in the company having a Warrent Sworn out by Seciel Wood a cumberland Presbyterian Priest who had sworn the piece against G M Hinkel Mr S—-agreed with the Sheriff to come into town alone & tak Mr. Hinkel & not bring in an army to Scare womin & children. He did so & took Mr. Hinkel before Esq Staton a distance of about 4 or 5 miles & nobody appeared against him he was acquited & returned to his family. Immediately when the Sheriff & Prisoner left town Colonel Jones at the head of I suppose near a hundred armed men entered town accompanied by Seciel Wood & in a verry hostile manner Paraded through town at lea[st] two or three hours threatning men women & children with destruction of person & property if they were not out of the County in ten days & after making a general discharge of their rifles left town hooting & hallowing like wild savages. Again I think it was in the month of Sept Having business into Davis Co as I was riding in a one horse Waggon a Rufus Allen accompanied me we were Surprised & taken prisoners by 22 or 23 armed men Cornelius Gillham being their leader who Stood then elected as a member of the Legislator & after detaining us a half hour or more tantelizing us took a pistol from me & a Rifle from Allen threatning to shoot us & calked & presented their rifles at us but finely let us go this hapned about 5 miles South of Adamonde Ahmin About the first of Oct. we begun to be harrassed by day & by night by Scouting parties of the mob in & about Dewitt firing at [ou]r men in and about town & riding into town making [th]reats of death & destruction against the church. It was said [the]y had gathered Several hundred Strong & encamped within one [mile] of town but [to] this I was not an eye wit[ness] but I believe [it] for I heard more than a hundred guns [—] near together likewise many other circumstances causes me to believe it we were harrassed from that time forth til about the 10th or 11th of Oct. On the 19th of August we sent a Petition by P Hawley to Austin A. King the circuit judge for protection but got no answer. Also I think some time in Sept we sent a petition to Lilburn W. Boggs Gov of Mo for releaf & received no answer. Again about the 2nd or 3rd of Oct we sent Mr Calwell in Person to the Gov Soon after when the mob Seemed to be doing all they could against us we Sent Henry Root to Judg King he Sent Genl Park with two hundred men to relieve us he encamped within one mile of town but said he could do nothing for us because of the mob sprit in his men & Some of his officers said so likewise & he withdrew his men about 11th of Oct & we recievd word about the same time that the Gov. would do nothing for us & as we could get no protection from the authorities of the State we were forced to surrender our property our rights & our freedom that our fathers bled for & on the 11th of Oct the Society removed from Dewitt for Caldwell Co the church at this time consisted of forty to fifty families many of them sick & had a cold chilling blast to pass on an open Prary & many in open Waggens one woman died on the way the old man Cross was into town with an armed force before I left town I arived in Caldwell Co near Far West on the 14th of Oct where I remained but a short time til Generals Lucas & Willson of Jackson Co acommpanied by other Genls marched an army of Soldiery to Far West & caused the Church to lay down theer arms & while in this defenceless cituation flung down their fences destroyed their corn Potatoes Ponpians & all kinds of grain & Sauce with Cattle Hogs Sheep & horses to bad to be named they took about 20 acres of corn of Gidean Allen flang down his fence in many places round the corn I sent my boy to put it up I Saw them getting the corn it was in Shockes & many other things I saw too tedious for to name

John Murdock

NB-The Duplicat that I Promised to send accompanying this has got lost so that I cannot send it Lexington Layfayette Co is were the office is that I enterd my land

John Murdock

[Sworn to before J. Orr, J.P., Adams Co., IL, 10 Jan 1840.]

MYRICK, Philindia

To the Honourable the Senate And house of Representatives in Congress Assembled At the City of Washington in the District of Columbia January 9th 1840 Heer by represent to you my losdses And troubles that I received under the Exterminateing order Governer Boggs of the State of misourie We moved to the State of missourie in the fall of 1838 we ware stopt by on the way by the mob our waggeon searcht guns taken from us our lives thretened and after keeping us fore days then let us proseed our journey then we went on till we Came to Hawns mills on shole creek in Caldwell CO and a bout the 29th of October thare being several families campt thare the mob came a ponus in the after part of the day with Mr Cumstock at thare hed and commens fireing on helpless men womens and children and thare was fifteen killed and was burried in one hole the next day and others wounded sum mortally and amung whom was my husband instantly killed Levi N. Myrick instantly killed and also a child of mine mortaly woun ded who died about 4 weeks after and the mob took 2 horses 12 sheep 2 guns & sum tools and clothing which was worth no less than three hundred dollars and after all of this I was oblige to get out of the state the best way I Could and now I hav three fatherless Children to main tain with my own hands laber all the above los and agravencies happened because of our Religion so said the mob

Philindia Myrick

[Sworn to before R. L. Hill, C.C.C. Jersey Co., IL, 10 Jan 1840.]

NAPER, Reuben

I Certify that I lived near Hauns Mill about three months, On Tuesday the thirtieth day of October being absent from home at the House of Mr Walker, while their a man came up and told us that the mob had come to the Mill and that they had Shown no Quarter, and that they intended to Sweep Shoal Creek. That evening I Started to go to the mill and proceeded Some distance I met Some Families in the Woods who had fled from the Slaughter they persuaded me not to go any further that night. So I Consented to Stay with them. We all Slept in the Woods that night without any beds or any thing to Cover us with excepting two women who had brought Each of them a quilt. The next morning I pursued my Journey and went I got to the Mill I met my Mother and the rest of the family. I asked them if my Father was dead. They told me to go and look into the Shop I immediately went to the Shop and Saw Seven men and one boy lying dead amongst whom was my Father who was shot through the head and through the heart. Three more I found lay dead near the Shop and Several more reached Some houses and Soon afterwards died, in all there were Eighteen killed Sixteen men and two boys.

[Sworn to before D. H. Wells, J.P., Hancock Co., IL, 3 Jan 1840.]

NAPER, Ruth

I hereby certify that my husband William Naper and myself lived near Haun’s mills about three months previous to the massacre at Haun’s which was on the 30th of Octr. A. D. 1838

The man we lived with who did not belong to the Church told us the week previous to the massacre that the Mormons would all be killed within a month that there would not be one left a span long in Caldwell Co. in that time. After the massacre was over I went into a certain blacksmith shop where I found my husband dead, he was shot through the breast, there were seven others in the shop dead and dying I did not count those who were dead outside of the shop therefore the whole number killed is unknown to me but I suppose seventeen or eighteen were killed. I judged that there were three at least three hundred of this mob armed force and I heard some of them say that there were over four hundred of them. They came upon us on a sudden for they came rushing out of the woods[.] We had a few days previous moved to within a short distance of Haun’s mills. After this company had ceased fireing they sent and you ordered me and other women to leave the houses, which we did and then they plundered them of our efforts.

After a few days there came back a large company of armed men and took possession of Haun’s mill and they also crowded into our house and crowded me and my children away from the fire without my consent they lodged there and one night one of them came to my bed and laid his hand upon me which so frightened me that I made quite a noise and crept over the back side of my children, and he offered no further insult at the time. This company camped in the nieghborhood between one and two weeks to our great inconvenience for they took from the brethren grain, cattle, hogs, bee stands, &.C. as free to appearance as though it was they were their own

[Sworn to before D. H. Wells, J.P., Hancock Co., IL, 3 Jan 1840.]

NEWMAN, Elijah

I hereby certify that I settled in the State of Missouri in the year A. D. 1833 and continued my residence there untill last winter

I was living at Far West at the time Genl. Lucus came there with his troops about the first of November 1838. The first day that these troops appeared at Far West they rode up within a short distance of the town where they formed into lines and halted. It was nearly sundown and they soon turned back half a mile or more and encamped for the night. The next day they rode up and formed again as before. Flags of truce were passed back and forward, and I understood the troops[.] requested an interview with some of the leading men of our church at their camp because they wished to make known to them their business those named went out to the troops No sooner had our brethren put themselves into their hands than the troops commenced an awfull yelling and shouting such as I never before heard[.] They made the air ring for miles round and continued to shout and yell for a long time. They demanded our arms were demanded and the next day they were given up. We were kept the most of the day closely guarded in a hollow square while they guarded large bodies of troops say thousands rode through the town in different directions. Guards were placed around the town and a number of companies were stationed in different parts of the town These troops burnt large quantities of house logs. I judged to logs to be sufficent for forty or fifty houses They were houses taken down and moved into town just before the troops came there and the owners had not time to put them up again they were moving in for their safty. I saw the soldiers pull down the body of one house in Far West and burn the logs, they also burnt many rails I was ordered, together with the rest of my brethren that were in town onto the public square where we were closely surrounded by a strong guard and there compelled to sign an instrument of writing said to be a deed of trust, which was to bind us to put all our property into the hands of a committee to be applied in paying the debts of any of the church members and also to pay any damages which the people of Daviess county might claim for any damages they might [——] have sustained by any body and also to defray the expences of calling out the troops. After Genl. Clark arrived and took command we were ordered on to the public square where we were closely guarded in a circle or square with Genl. Clark and a number of other officers in the center-One of them read over a list names and all those who were in the ring whose names were called were ordered forward by Genl. Clark fifty or more of us were called out. we were then marched into a house and closely guarded[.] In a short time Genl. Clark came in and said to us in substance as follows. Your situation I know is an unpleasant one you have been guilty of all manner of crimes and although you may not be more guilty than others who have not been taken yet I intend to make an example of you. The nature and enormeties of your crimes have been such that you are not fit to live among a moral people therefore you shall not be permitted to live in the state. It was a part of the treaty made by Genl. Lucus that the Mormons should leave the state and that was also the Governor’s order. In consequence of the present extreme cold weather I will permit them to stay untill the weather becomes warm and if they are not off them I will pledge myself that I will drive them out of the state and if I have to come again I will show them no quarters. The next day we were marched off to Richmond Ray Co. where we were confined a number of days before we had any particular crime alledged against us. The weather was the coldest I ever knew it at that season of the year we had to camp out two nights while upon the road And after we arrived at Richmond we had to lie upon the floor and they did not furnish us with a blanket or any kind of bedding, and we suffered greatly in consequence of the cold. I was kept in custody in Richmond between two and three weeks and then was dismissed by Judge King there haveing been nothing proved against me. I moved out of Mo. in consequence of Governor Boggs’ order and the threats of Genl. Clark. My losses I compute at from one hundred and fifty to two hundred dollars

Elijah Newman

[Sworn to before D. H. Wells, J.P., Hancock Co., IL, 3 Jan 1840.]

NISWANGER, William

State of Illinois Adams County SS. January 7, 1840

This day personally appeared before me William Laughlin one of the Justices of the peace in & for said County William Niswanger who being duly sworn according to law deposeth & saith that in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & thirtyseven & thirtyeight he was a citizen of Caldwell county, state of missouri & that he the said deponent did at the land office in Lexington, Fayette Cty. mo. enter forty acres of land in his own name & for his own use, in township 55 Range 28, section 9 southwest of the southwest quarter section Joining the sixteenth section: & that he was taken & put under guard by order of General Lucas, & by order of said Lucas was then compelled to sign away said land or go to prison. & further this Deponent saith not.

William Niswanger

[Sworn to before W. Laughlin, J.P., Adams Co., IL, 7 Jan 1840.]

NORTON, David

January the 22 AD 1840 Township Five by Five Co of Pike State of Illinois

A Statement of los and Dammages done me the undersined David Norton By the athority of Govener Bogs and his asistance of mosoury state I had 200 acres of land and Buildings thare on I had paid government and had government was abelegeed to let my wheat Corn hogs and some of my Cattle to get away [—] not being able to git my money tho I had lent to the missourians to help my self a way and they no now ow me lent money and they in mo and I have been drove [of] from my land and [—] was not allowed to Retirn to it any more and A trifle had to take a trifle for it or loze it all And i Consider that I have Lost 500 Dollars

David X Norton his hand and seal

[Sworn to before W. H. Boling, C.C.C.C., Pike Co., IL, 27 Jan 1840.]

OMSTEAD, Harvy

Handcock Co and State of Illenois

I doe here by testify that I emigrated to Jackson Co and State of Missouri in the year 1832 and in 1833 a mob arose and I saw them throw down a two story brick building ocupyed as a private dwelling below and a printing office above and they broke the press Scatterd the type and paper and they tared and fetherd Bishop Patridge and they took me prisner and kept after this they met in council and resol[ve]d to put us out of the County (peaceably if we can, foreceable if we must) they took one prisner and the next morning a company headed by a Baptist Priest came to my house and warnd me to leave the county whic[h] I we did.

whil in clay co we was threatend if we did not leave there, and they agread to let us have Caldwell Co I moved from there to Davis Co in 1838 made a claim and intended to enter when it came in market but a mob arose and I was compeld to move to Adam Ondi Ahman and soon after my house was burnt my plows taken my stock distroyed soon after I was cald away on buisness, and when I returnd I found an armed soldiery encamped in the Town under the command of Gen. Wilson and none was allowed to pass out without a pass from him, and then they must be escorted out and ten days was given for all to move out of the county in and we was only permitted to stay till spring and then to leave the State at the perril of our lives which we did Signed this 4 day of Jan A D 1840

Harvy Omstead

[Sworn to before A. Monroe, J.P., Hancock Co., IL, 6 Jan 1840.]

OUTHOUSE, John

State of Illinois County of Adams Jan 8th 1840

I John Outhouse do hereby certify that I was a citizen of Caldwell Co. Mo. and purchased land there to the amount of 80 acres 40 of which I purchased from Government but on account of my religion being a member of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints commonly called Mormons I was compelled to leave the state under the exterminating order of the Govener of said state

John Outhouse

[Sworn to before J. Orr, J.P., Adams Co., IL, 8 Jan 1840.]

OVERTON, Mahala an

State of Illenois County of Adams Jan 8th 1840

I Mahala ann Overton do hereby certify that in the month of Sept and oct. 1838 I was at Wm Hills Ray Co. Mo. and I herd him say repeatedly that Jo Smith was an imposter and ought to be killed and all the rest of the Mormons for there doctrin was fals and he said that he would kill him as quick as he would a hog and was reagr to go and help drive them out of the State for they was not fit to live on the earth Mr H the said Mr Hill was in Bogard company when they went into Far West to help to perform the act of extemination I also was at Mr Gibson Gates house in clay Co. and a Company of Malitia come and demanded his gunes and Mrs. Gates and sons gave them up for fear of there lives one of the names of the men in the company was Vaun in consequence of our lives being threatened [-] myself and little girl and Mrs Gates and 9 children was compelled to to start to Far West on foot about 30 mils the weather was very cold and we suffered with the cold very much and then was compelled to leave the State under the exterminating order of the Govenor I also had land which I had leave

mahala nn overtonn

[Not sworn.]

PACK, John

State of Ileanis Pike County

I Certifi that I John Pack was Drove from the County of Davis in Mosury to Coldwell County and from Coldwell County Mosury to the State of Ileanois and this by the orders of the govenor of the State of Mosury I and my Wife was taken prisoners wile travling Seventy five miles from home and received greit a buse I received sustained the loss of upwards of two thousand Dollars in propperty and all this inconsequence of the Governors orders

John Pack

[Sworn to before W. H. Boling, C.C.C.C., Pike Co., IL, 14 Jan 1840.]

PAGE, James B. F.

Loss of Propperty by being Driven from State of Mo. It being for Land and Cattle and time $800.00

James B. F. Page

[Sworn to before A. Monroe, J.P., Hancock Co., IL, 6 Jan 1840.]

PAGE, James B. F.

I here by testify that in the year 1835 I was Driven from Lafett Co. Mo to Clay Co. by a Mob leaving all of our Crops in Lafett not Receiving any thing for the same, I then was Driven from Clay Co. leaving my House and Land to Colwell Co. in 1837 and in 1838 I past through all the Suferings of leving the State and my House and Land and I saw an armed forse Come in to our Town and surround the plase and was taken prisenor and they took my arms and was not permited to gow of from my one possesion I allso had one youk of Oxen driven of by the armry and further saw my Mother ordered out of her House in Davis Co. Mo. being an old lady of sixty years of of age and was under the necesity of traviling 16 Mills on the Priaria in the snow and at night was under the necessity of lodging in an old Cabin without fire or Clothing and two of her Sons and they Sick with Aqeue and fevor and She was not permited to take any of her House furniture with her nether her Cows or Calvs and then was Driven from the State with the rest of the Inhabitance thus wi Certify being an Eye Witness

James B. F. Page

[Sworn to before A. Monroe, J.P., Hancock Co., IL, 6 Jan 1840.]

PALMER, Abraham

Abraham Parmer of Springfield Sangamon County State of Illinois says he is a member of the Church of Latter day Saints commonly called Mormons and that he moved into the State of Missouri in October 1838 and proceeded with his family in a waggon as far as Caldwell County where he arrived two days before the Massacre of the Mormons at Haun’s Mill he stopped at a Mr Walkers about four miles from the said Mill where he remained in his waggon with his family in company with six other waggons of his brethren untill after the Massacre The next day after the aforesaid outrage a company of the mob came to him and brethren and said if you will deny your faith you can live with us in peace but if you will not you must leave the County forthwith on pain of death for we will exterminate all of you that do not deny your faith men women and children. The above proposition was made by a man who had previously assisted in plundering our waggons he called his name Austin and Styled himself Captain of the Livingston County Spies

Abraham Palmer

[Sworn to before J. Adams, J.P., Sangamon Co., IL, 9 Nov 1839.]

PARTRIDGE, Edward

In the year of our Lord 1831 I removed from the State of Ohio to Jackson Co. Missouri. I purchased land and built me a house, near the village of Independence, where I lived a peaceable inhabitant molesting no body.

On the 20th day of July A. D. 1833 George Simpson and two other mobbers entered my house (whilst I was sitting with my wife, who was then quite feeble my youngest child being then about three weeks old,) and compelled me to go with them. soon after leaving my house I was surrounded by about fifty mobbers who escorted me about half a mile to the public square, where I was surrounded by some two or three hundred more.

Russell Hicks Esqr. appeared to be the head man of the mob, he told me that his word was the law of the county, and that I must agree to leave the county or suffer the consequences. I answered that if I must suffer for my religion it was no more than others had done before me-That I was not conscious of having Injured any one in the county therefore I could not consent to leave it. Mr. Hicks then proceeded to strip off my clothes and was disposed to strip them all off-I strongly protested against being stripped naked in the street, when some more humane than the rest interfered and I was permitted to wear my shirt and pantaloons. Tar and feathers were then brought and a man by the name of-Davies with the help of an other daubed me with tar from the crown of my head to my feet, after which feathers were thrown over me. For this abuse I have never received any satisfaction, although I commenced a suit against some of them for $50,000 damage, and paid my lawyers six hundred dollars to carry it on, I also paid near two hundred dollars to get a change of venue.--My lawyers after getting their pay of me, made a compromise with the defendents, without my consent, and threw my case out of court without giving me any damages by their agreeing to pay the costs, which they never have paid that I know of, and I never could prevail upon my lawyers to collect them for me though they agreed so to do.

Nov. 1833 I was compelled by a mob to leave Jackson county, at which time I held the title to two thousand one hundred and thirty six acres of land all lying in that county and also two villge lots situated in the village of Independence. Such have been the threats of the people of that county that I have never to this day dared to go on to, much less settle upon, my lands there, though I still own some there yet.

From Jackson I moved to Clay county where I lived till the fall of 1836 when I moved my family to what is now Caldwell county there I purchased land and built houses where I lived till last winter when in conformity with the order of Gov. Boggs and the threats of Genl. Clark I moved my family to the State of Illinois, at which time I held the title to forty acres of land in Clay Co. and more than four fifths of the lots in the town of Far West Caldwell Co. which was laid out one mile square and was settleing very rapidly. I had five houses and one barn in the town. I also held eight hundred and sixty eight acres of land in Caldwell county.

The property in Caldwell Co. has sunk to a mere trifle, in consequence of our Church not being protected there.

I give the following for a sample, I bought a house last summer in Far West and gave twelve hundred dollars for it, after I bought it a well was dug and other repairs made amounting to between fifty and a hundred dollars this property has lately been sold by my agent and only brought one hundred dollars--An other house and lot which last summer I would not have been willing to have taken three hundred dollars for has been sold by my agent and brought only thirty dollars, however I cannot think that property there will remain so low long.

Whilst our society lived in Jackson and Clay counties there never was any one of them, to the best of my knowledge, ever convicted of any criminal offence, and a lawsuit of any kind was very rare, although they were accused of mor[e] unlawful things especially in Jackson Co. when at the same time the administration of the laws was in their own hand.

But for the want of any thing legal against us, they proceeded against us illegally, and not only drove us from our lands and homes in Jackson Co. but kept us from them, and this order of things was suffered by the authorities and people of the State to remain year after year untill at last for the want of protection against that spirit of Mobocracy we have been compelled to leave the State.

I lived near three years in Clay Co. within a few miles of the line of Jackson Co., and no man from Jackson Co. or anywhere else brought any law suit of any kind whatever against me during the time.

I feel that the state of Missouri ought to pay an immense sum for damages, for not protecting us in the first place in our rights in Jackson Co., and in the second place in not granting us protection in the State.

Last fall I was taken from my home in Far West Mo. by Genl. Clark, without any civil process, and driven off to Richmond Ray Co. thirty miles, and kept a prisoner between three and four weeks before I was liberated, for which I think the State of Missouri aught to pay me a round sum.

The following charges I make against the state of Missouri for losses sustained, leaving my damages to be computed by others

Quincy Ill. May 15th 1839

I certify that the above statements are correct according to the best of my knowledge and belief.

Edward Partridge

One important item I forgot to mention before the foregoing was testified to, which is as follows, Whilst I was prisoner confined to the town of Far West, I was with the rest of the inhabitants collected within a circle on the public square, and there, surrounded by a strong guard, we were compelled to sign a deed of trust, which deed was designed to put our property into the hands of a committee, to be disposed of by them to pay all the debts which had been contracted by any and all who belong to the church.-also to pay all damages which might be claimed by the people of Daviess county for any damages they might have sustained from any person whatever. I would remark that all those who did deny the faith were exonerated from signing this deed of trust.

Edward Partridge

[Sworn to before C. M. Woods, C.C.C., Adams Co., IL, 15 May 1839.]

PATTEN, Charles W.

January 8t 1840

This is to certify that Charles W Patten a member of the church of Christ of Latter Day Saints remooved with my family to Jackson Co, Missourie in the year 1833 expecting to become a permanent setler of that state & County but in that I was disappointed-for I had not remained there but a few days before I hapned into Independence-heard a petition read by Samuel C Owens clerk of said county & after he read the petition he said the Mormons must leave the Co. or deny their religion he was then asked by a gentleman what he had against them why said he we cannot agree & if we do not disperse them & stop the emigration they will sone become so numerous that they will rule the County D-d them they must go, the petition signed by Samuel C Owens contained many heard threatnings & it was not many days untill they put them into practice Some time in Oct. I was present when Robert Johnson struck Parley P Pratt over the head with his gun & knocked him down I herd the blow, but did not see him fall but saw him get up--& saw the blood running. he tryed to get redress by law but could not get a hearig also Moses G Willson came to my house and asked me how long I expected to live there I told him I did not know but I had come there for the purpos of becoming a perminent Setler of that place he told me I had better be gone or quit the Mormons for we are deter-mnined to rid our Cou[nty] of every Mormon you had better be gone and that spedily, This mob continued until at length I was compelled to leave my house & my living & flee for my life & as I was on my way to Clay Co. I was stoped by Thomas Willson & Mr. Cockerill clerk of Moses G Willson & then surrounded by 12 or 13 men well armed. after threatning to let out my hearts blood & crossing some of their Dirks across my breast they let me gow, I saw also many men that was whipped & many houses that was thrown down by this mob I was also presant at the time our arms was demanded by Colonel Pitcher & he promised us protection for a certing length of time by pledging his honor that we should not be harmed & if we was molested he would protect us by the force of arms but to our astonishment the verry next day 60 or 70 men bearing the arms we gave up riding from house to house hunting for men swearing they would kill them if they could find them telling their wives & children if they was not gone in less than 3 days they would massacree all they could find protection was sought for but could not be found

In the year 1838 I bought 80 acres of land in Caldwell Co of government expecting there to enjoy my rights acording to the constitution but in this I was again disappointed for in the year 1838 I was compelled to leave the State by Governor Boggs expelling order & to make a sacrifice of nearly all I possessed also I was compelled to give up my duplicates for the land I had bought with my money which Duplicates call for south east quarter of the south west qr. of township 56 also the N W qr. of the N W qr. Sect, 6 twnship 55 & range 29

Charles W Patten

[Sworn to before J. Orr, J.P., Adams Co., IL, 8 Jan 1840.]

PATTEN, John

Personally appeared before me David W. Kilbourn a Justice of the peace of Lee County, Iowa Territory, appointed by the governor of said Territory, John Patten, who after being duely sworn according to law deposeth and sayethe, that he the said Patten is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day saints (Ironically called Mormons) that in the month of June 1833 he moved from Greene County, Indiana, into Jackson county, Missourie, and bought a farm with the growing crop; that shortly after the inhabitants of Jackson County began to threaten the Church with destruction if they did not leave the County, stating that they were the first settlers and they would not suffer the Church to settle in the County, assigning as a reason, that our faith on the subject of religion was disgusting, that the Church was made up of yankies, who were of different habits & customs to themselves, that soon the Church would become most numerous and eventually would govern the County, which they were determined not to submit to; & for the purpose of driving the Church from the county they bound themselves in a covenant, pledging “their lives, their fortunes and their sacrid honor to expell the mormons from the County of Jackson peaceably if we can and forceably if we must, (using their own language); to ackomplish which they broke open the church store, scattered the goods in the street, seazed a number of the heads of the Church, demolished a brick building or printing office and threw its contents into the street, tared & feathered the Bishop of the Church, threw down a large number dwelling houses and most unmercifully beat a number of men belonging to the Church; and about the 10th of Nov. 1833 they drove the Church from Jackson County County subjecting it to great losses &c. &c.

My individual loss at this time I estimate at five hundred dollars

$500.00

From Jackson I fled to Clay County, Missourie, and bought a farm of Seventy five acres, and thirty four acres of improvement, hoping to live in peace; but in this I was disappointed; for in 1836 the same mob combination and procedings compelled the Church to leave the County of Clay, again depriving us of the rights of free men & subjecting the Church to great loss of property, afflictions &c, &c

My personal damage in being driven from my home at this time & deprived of the use of my farm untill I was driven from the state, a period of three years I estimate a three thousand dollars

3,000.00

From Clay County I fled to Caldwell County, Missouri in which County I bought two hundred & thirty acres of land; I moved from Caldwell to Davis County adjoining Caldwell, & thinking that in the wilderness we could live in peace, I selected a valuable seat for mills on unsurveyed government land, built a good log house, planted about sixteen acres of Corn & other vegetables, I had about sixty hogs, a large Prairie plow & three common field plows, a stud horse, 4 neat cattle, together with tools & articles of houshold goods, to numerous to name here, all taken from me by that same Mobocracy or Mob combination, which had operated against the Church from the first. And to cap the climax Lillborn W. Boggs, Governor of Missouri issued his exterminating order, to drive every mormon from the state or exterminate them if Necessary. I estimate my loss of personal property at eight hundred and thirty six dollars at this ant [amt]

836.00

The Church received orders from those whom Gov. Boggs sent to exterminate the Mormons, to assemble at Far West in Caldwell county where the church were permitted to winter, with express orders not to think of making another Crop in Missourie. My situation at this time was this, to wit; I had & yet have a settlement right in the county of Davise worth five hundred Dollars

500.00

I had two hundred & thirty acres of land in Caldwell County valued at ten Dollars per acre

2300.00

but was oblidged to sell for what I could get, which was about three hundred & ninety five dollars making alloss of one thousand nine hundred & five dollars. I had 75 acres in Clay Co. worth six dollars per acre, for which I got an old horse, thirty seven dollars out of the store & about the same in cash, leaving a balance due me of three hundred dollars

300.00

I have land in Jackson County, which I have not disposed of, & have not the liberty to live upon it, for which privation I charge one thousand dollars

1000.00

Thus I have made a statement of the damage, which according to my knowledge and understanding is strictly true, & I ask the aid of the great and the good to see me & others remunerated for all our privations, I have injured no man, I have transgressed no law of My Country, and I challenge all men to attach any matter of crime to my person. I am fifty two years old, a Physician by profession, but for the Glory of God & the salvation of my soul I chose & yet choose the affliction of the saints in preferance to the honor & glory of the world.

I know that the God of Abraham has commenced a great work in these last days, for which cause those who believe in him & his work suffered the like above mentioned losses & privations I was compelled to leave the State of Missourie or suffer the vengence of the governor and his Mob, for which privation of liberty & all rights of a free man I know not what to demand; but I think that the unadulterated spirit of Liberty will make the extent of the Purse of Missourie this penal sum as a reward for those who have Suffered her unheard of and unexampled cruelties and persecution in moderntimes

I have lived in the state of Missourie nearly six years during which time the Church as a body have been broken up & completely routed three times and deprived of their labor, their property plundered & destroyed, & Subjected to exposure in the most severe winter weather. heavy expenses & every affliction peculiar to the Character of that relentnlys Mob of plunderers, Murderers & perpetrators of almost every outrage, which has had the effect of rendering the Christ Church poor & misserable & particular objects of the pity, comisseration & relief of a good, wise and Patriotic Government: for which purpose I have made the above statement, hoping that the government of my Country will not turn a deaf eare to the cries & entreaties of the much persecuted and afflicted widows & orphans, poor & impoverished Sons and daughters of the patriots of Seventy Six.

John Patten

[Sworn to before D. W. Kilbourn, J.P., Lee Co., IA, 28 Oct 1839.]

PLUMB, Jeremiah

January 13th 1840

To the Honorable Senate and House of Representatives in Congress Assembled at the City of Washington in the district of Columbia-

I the undersignd do By these presents represent To Your Honorable Body My Losses Troubles and sufferings which I sustaned and underwent By the Hands of a Ruthless Mob in the State of Missouri in the Year of our Lord 1838.

By forcibly being driven from my Land and Home in that State. And this is To Petition Your Honorable Body That I may Have Redress of these my Grievances which I Have Sustained By the hand of Law Breakers in Taking from me my Rights which the Constitution of this Republic Guarantees unto all free Born Citizens-Further with Respect to the Conduct of this mob. I have had my Life Threatened And received many Abuses Too numerous To mention And the Loss of Property &C. To be no Less Than 1,000 dollars which I sustained, also my Life was Threatened By William Tailor and a pistal held at my Breast By him. And was obliged to make heavy Exertions To Extricate myself from him This in short is a history of my Grievances and Humbly ask You To Take into Consideration These suffering And by so doing Your Servant will Ever Pray

Jeremiah Plumb

P.S. I the Undersigned Certify in addition That we the people Called Mormons, (after a Conference was held by the principal Men of the Mo. Militia) was forced by the point of the sword To Sign a deed of Trust Signing Away Our Lands; The principal Men Engaged in this Business was Thomas Birch Acting States Attorney for that District also Genl. Clark Commander in General of the Militia also Genl. Saml. D. Lucas of Independence Jackson Co Mo.

Jeremiah Plumb

[Sworn to before J. H. Randle, N.P., Madison Co., IL, 13 Jan 1840.]

PLUMB, Merlin

January 13th 1840

To the Honorable House Senate and House of Representatives in Congress Assembled at the City of Washington in the District of Columbia [I] the undersignd do by these presents Represent To You My Losses Troubles and Sufferings, That I underwent and Recd. from the Hand of a Mob In the State of Missouri in the Year of AD 1838 &C-And this may Certify that I did purchase Improvements and Entd. [—] the E. 1/2 of S. W. 1/4 of Section No. 8 in T. 55 No of Base Line W. of 5 principal M. R. 36 Containing 80 A. Also S. W. 1/4 of N. W. 1/4 of Section 8 T. 55 N. of the Base Line and W. of the 5 principal R. 36 Containing 40 acres @ 1.25 Also N. W. 1/4 of S. W. 1/4 of Section No. 8. T. 55 North of the Base Line and W. of the 5 principal Meridian Range No 26 Containing 40 Acres @ $1.25. All the Above Entd. May 29, 1837. and upon which I had 40 Acres Improved and all apparatuses Belonging To a Good farm Thereon, And from which I was forcibly driven By the Hands of a Mob immediately under the apprabation of Governor L. W. Boggs, Acting Governor of the State of Misouri and further Certify that after being forced to leave my Home while on my Road To the State of Illinois I was met By a Mob and our Lives or the Life of Myself and family Threatened our waggons searched and 1 Gun Taken of mine also 3 others from my waggon And Then was ordered To Camp in the Woods and did so until I Got a Chance to Remove. the Commander of this Company was James M Ramsey now acting [——] of the Judges of the Co. C. of Caldwel[l] County Missouri. and Certify That The Losses which I Reed. To be no Less Than 2500 Dollars [——] upon my Land Stock &C. which I Left, and further Certify That The whole Loss of property Personal & Real and the loss sustained By Leaving and moving from my Home To be no Less than five Thousand Dollars

Merlin Plumb

[Sworn to before J. H. Randle, N.P., Madison Co., IL, 13 Jan 1840.]

POWELL, Uriah B.

Uriah B. Powell of Springfield Sangamon County and State of Illinois says that he is a member of the Church of Latter Day Saints Commonly known by the name of Mormons and that he has been a resident of Caldwell County Missouri untill he was Obliged to leave in consequence of the exterminating Order of his excellency Governor Lilburn W. Boggs Issued in October 1838 by which he and his brethren were compelled to leave the State on pain of death And that further on the day the arms were given up at Far West in Caldwell County aforesaid which he thinks was about the first day of November in the year aforesaid he had a conversation with a Captain of the Militia who was a citizen of Davies County Missouri and who had been engaged in the Mob in Course of the conversation the said Captain Observed that we (speaking of the mob of Davies County) have burnt houses of our own and the Mormons on the Mormons Credit to accomplish our designs of getting the Mormons out of the State

Uriah B Powell

[Sworn to before J. Adams, J.P., Sangamon Co., IL, 9 Nov 1839.]

POWELL, Uriah B.

loss and damage as follows

the within is strictly true to the best knoledge I posses

Uriah B. Powell

[Sworn to before J. Adams, J.P., Sangamon Co., IL, 9 Nov 1839.]

PULSIPHER, Terah

In July 1838 I started from the state of Oh[i]o to Move to the west part of Missouri I arrived in Davies Co. Mo. the fore part of Octbr. folloing with my family Expecting to make it my place of Residence during Life I assisted to pay for a preemtion right and Built a house. soon after Mobs were heard of in various parts Destroying Property Belonging to Mormons About the first of Novbr. I was gathering Corn with 15 or 20 Persons and were taken prisners by aboddy of trops sd. to be sent by the Govornor as soon as the Town was surrounded we were ordered to go to our houses and get our guns if we had any and Come to their Camp and deliver them up we accordingly started for that purpus After going but afew hundred yards from them we were fireed upon by a boddy of men sd. to be Headed by Neal Gillum from Platt Country. but we got our guns and gave them up and then a s[t]rong gard placed over us. in the mean time were in sulted and abused, at the same time aman by the Name of Han[S]ey strove hard to kill one of the prisners an aged man. but was rescued by one of the officers. while I was there under gard my house was robed of the property I brought from Ohio The next morning we were brought before general Wilsons Camp and addresst in the folloing Manner Gentlemen I have an order from the govornor to Exterminate you forth with but I take the responsibility upon my self to give you ten days to Leave this place or we might Expect desruction

This is as near as I can recollect.

Terah Pulsipher

[Sworn to before J. Orr, J.P., Adams Co., IL, 8 Jan 1840.]

RAPPLEYE, Tunis

State of Illenois Adams County SS January 7th 1840

This day personally app[eare]d before me Wm. Laughlin a Justice of the peace within Said County Tunis Rappleye who being Duly Sworn according to Law Deposeth and saith he Mooved to Ray County Missouri 1836 personally abused by John Cates & John Bales they Demanded my rifle & I refused & In Consequince of refuseing they threatened My life and I estimated my damage at 150 Dollars

Tunis X Rappleye

[Sworn to before W. Laughlin, J.P., Adams Co., IL, 7 Jan 1840.]

REDFIELD, Harlow

Pike Co Illenois January 14 AD 1840

I herby certify that I moved into Missouri in the month of May 1838 Bought a house & Lot in the citty of Farwest & purchased a claim on a quarter of sexion in davis Co with a cabin on it & some improvement I lived in farwest untill febuary 1839 when I was oblieged to leave the state according to his excellency the Govener L W Bogs exterminating order leaving all behind in the hands of my percecutors. I with others was forced to sign a deed of trust at the point of the sword with many others I was deprived contrary to law of citizen ship, the loss of time expense property &c I claim $2000

Harlow Redfield

[Sworn to before W. H. Boling, C.C.C.C., Pike Co., IL, 14 Jan 1840.]

REED, Delia

Handcock Co and State of Illinois

This may Certify that I Delia Reed moved to Missouri in the year 1836 my husband died Soon after we arrived and left me with Seven Small Children I then moved to Calwell County made an Improvement Continued on Said farm untill the Autum of 1838 when the troubles come on between the Inhabitants and the Mormons I with the rest of our Society was obliged to leave the State-Accordly my family was Scattered and through the Clemency of friends made out to leave the State through the order of the Governor to leave the State I was obliged to Sacrifice the most of my property So that my family become Scattered and I had to gain a daily Pittence among Strangers

Delia Reed

[Sworn to before A. Monroe, J.P., Hancock Co., IL, 6 Jan 1840.]

REED, Elijah

Quincy Illinois January 10th 1840

This is to Certify that I went from the state of Ohio into the state of Missouri in Nov. 1836 & Stopped in Randolph County until May Following & removed from thence to Ray County & in Oct or Nov 1837 I Entered two Forties of land in Said County at the Lexington office & in the Sumer of 1838 I hired 17 acres of the same Broken up at 3 Dollars Per acre & got out a Set of house logs & some other Improvements intending to Spend my Days there But in October of the Said year During the Excitement or Mormon war as it is Called I was Called uppon By Anderson Martin & Several others of Richmond Ray County & Said if I would give them my gun & Deny my Faith or religion that I should have Protection & if not I Could not be Protected those terms I refused to Comply with I told them my Right of Concience I would Enjoy while I lived & Considerable Conversation Passed & the Same was Proposed again by Mr. Henly & I made the Same reply he then Said by God you Shall not be Protected & left me in about an hour after there was a Company of men Sent to take me But I kept out of their way & from that time until after the Surrender of the Brethren in Far West the Mob hunted me Constantly the account I have Partially given in my bill of Damages During which time I was Closely Pursued I was at a Br Jimmisons house in a by Place on the 29th of Oct & in the night of of the that day a Company of men Came to the House & Demanded admittence & threatened to Breake Down the Door Mr J got up and opened the Door meantime I hid under the Bed the men Came in and said they were Soldiers & he must go with them his wife asked where they said to the Malitia Camp above Richmond he Dressed himself & he & one of the men went for a horse at the Stable when they had got a little from the house the man Fired a gun & said the D—d rascal had ran from him he then returned to the house & they began to abus[e] Mrs. Jimm[iso]n wanting to sleep with her But she begged & cried For them to Desist & they Did so I lay under the Bed During this time they soon left the house & we supposed they had killed him I lay in the Field the remainder of the night the next Day I went to Caldwell we then learned of the Battle at Hawns Mill the Day Previous & From thence we went to Far West on the third of Nov. I was then taken Sick & was Confined to the house & Consequently Did not hear what General Clark had to Say I then went home in Ray Co a bout 35 miles in a Few Days I had notice by Mr David Snowden who said he was Captain of the men on the Bottom by the authority of the General who had the Command of the men sent to Caldwell & he told me I must leave by Sunday this was on tuesday I accordingly Disposed of my Property as Fast as I could For what I Could get But my one of my Neighbours Iterceded & I got to Stay till my Family was able to Move as they were all Sick with the Chills & Fever & had Been During my absence of 10 Days he Said we had all got to leave the State or Deny our religion law or no law

I accordingly removed to this place in March the Duplicates of my land I have lost or misplaced So that I cannot Find them

Elijah Reed

[Sworn to before C. M. Woods, C.C.C., Adams Co., IL, 9 Jan 1840.]

REED, John

Quincy April 21 1839

This May Certify that I John Reed in Consequence of the Late difficulty between a portion of the people of the upper Counties of Missouri and the Church of Lattr day Saints have Suffered the following Losses Viz in the year 1838 in the month of June I Moved My family to County of Livingston and in the fall was ordered by the Inhabitants to Leave the place in 15 days or be Massacreed I then for My Safty Moved to Davies Co from thence to there Bought the Betterment of 260 acres of Land while I was Making preparration to take possession of the plase the mob tore down the house that I Intended to ocupy and I was Compelled to Live in an uncomfortable Shantee in the Most Severe Cold and Stormy weather from this plase I was ordered by the Malita to go Back to Caldwell Co but in Consequence of having been appointed with Eleven others to Settle with the Inhabitants I Remained in Diahman after the our people had Left and at this time Received great abuse both by threntning my Life and Stealing my property Such as Clothing Houshold stuff tools &c together with one Cow & Calf I in this Situation was obliged in Compliance with the governors orders to Leave the State with but one horse and a Large family on my hands

John Reed Blacksmith

[Not sworn.]

RICHARDS, Elisha

To the Honle. The Senate and House of Representatives in Congress Assembled at the City of Washington in the District of Columbia, AD 1840 Here by Represent that I went to the State of Missouri and bought me a house and lot in the City of far west Caldwell Co missouri for which I paid the Sum of $200. likewise ten acres of timber for which I paid $100 and have a warranttee deed of the same Likewise ther lost one waggon worth $60 thirty sheep $90 one cow $20 for which because of the exterminating order of Governor Boggs of missouri is all lost to me

Elisha Richards

[Sworn to before R. L. Hill, C.C.C., Jersey Co., IL, 10 Jan 1840.]

ROCKWELL, Oren Porter

Porter Rockwell of Lawful age being duly sworn deposeth and saith that on the 19th day of July 1833 or thereabouts he the deponent resided on the Big Blue River in Jackson County State of Missouri that his father and himself kept a ferry on the said river and that at the time aforesaid he ferried over a company of men on their way to Independence the County seat of Jackson County for the purpose as they said of entering into resolutions to drive the Mormons from the County. deponent also ferried the company on their return home they stated to him the deponent that they had entered into ressolutions to meet on the 20th [Ju..] for the purpose of tearing down the printing Office that belonged to the Mormons. According to Agreement on the 20th July in the Year aforesaid a company of the Mob Crossed the river on their way to Independence on their return as they recrossed the river about sundown of the same day They stated that they had torn down the printing Office Scattered the type broken the press and destroyed the papers and tarred and feathred two men Edward Partridge and Charles Allen both of which were Mormons The Press belonged to W. W. Phelps & Co who also belonged to the Mormon Society They threatned the Mormons saying that they had resolved to drive them out of the County and that if my his father and myself himself would not renounce our their doctrine and religious faith as Mormons we they should share the same fate, refusing to pay unto them their ferriage. The following are some of the names of the persons that I were ferried over the river and stated that they had [been] entered in to an Agreement to drive the Mormons and had been engaged in the destruction of property as aforesaid—McGee & 2 sons Moses Wilson & sons—Cockrel Esquire Manship Esq Nimrod Manship Col Bowers Thomas Linville and sons James Linville Samuel Linville—Patten Robert Johnson Issac McCoy Missionary of the Indians—Cummings indian agent—Lovejoy and many others that I do not now reecollect on the 31st day of October A party of the Mob Came to the house of David Whitmer and drew his wife out of the house by the hair of the head and proceeded to throw down the house they then went to other houses throwing them down untill they had demolished ten dwelling houses amidst the shrieks and screams of women and children among those thus thrown down were the dwellings of Stephen Chase George Beebee Hiram Page Peter Witmer They also whipt and beat in a savage manner two of the men in a savage manner namely George Beebe & Hiram Page on saturday night the 2d of November a party of the Mob Called at the house of Orin Rockwell some of whose names were Russel Hicks Attorney at Law Hugh L Brazeale Attorney at Law Moses Wilson Thomas Wilson & two sons of Moses Wilson—Cockrel Lewis Franklin Samuel C. Owens Jones H. Flournoy Nimrod Manship Thomas Linville Isaac McCoy—Patten Robert Johnson James Linville William Linville—Cummings the Indian agent—Lovejoy they began making enquiry for deponents father and himself and being answerd that they were not at home began to insult the women the deponents Mother and Sister the said Mob were painted as indians and assuming that character to themselves began abusing and insulting the women [-] Aforesaid some saying that they would tear the house down others said not so let us wait untill we come back they then went to Mr. Pettigrews finding them sick Hugh L Brazeale was Called upon by the Mob as Doctor and desired by them to make examinations to see whether they were sick or not he pronounced them sick and not able to leave their house some said let us tear the house down [——] others said not they passed on and left the house Next house they went to was Noah Johnsons which they threw down and destroyed the most of his property they then proceeded to the house of David Bennetts and dragged himself and family out of the house they then beat and bruised this David Bennett in a most savage and barbarous manner leaving him on the ground for dead they then proceeded to throw down the house and while engaged in this business one of they kept up a continual firing of guns and while throwing down the aforesaid house one of their men was shot through the thigh they immediately then started for for home and while on their way Called at the house of this deponent and threw down his house and destroyed most of the household goods And while destroying some of the goods deponents sister went out and requested that they would be so kind as not to destroy the goods one of the Mob replied if she did not go away he would cut her throat from ear to ear pulling out a knife holding it out towards her After this they threw down a house belonging to David Jones and destroyed his goods.¶

The aforesaid persons on whom these outrages were Committed were all Mormons on the 4th November the Mob Again met at Blue river on Monday and sent Men through the settlement warning the people to leave their houses and lands and leave the County A man by the Name of Overton was deputed as one to do this business he was said to be a member of the baptist Church then threatning the people that if they did not leave immediately A party of men were at the river that would force them to leave or kill them And he was all the man that could keep them off a Many of the Men being absent from home the women and children fled into the woods in every direction upon the receipt of this intelligence. Then this Mob proceeded [there] westward about 2 1/2 miles from Blue river and commenced their depredations again by tearing down fences and turning their horses in to the Mormons Corn fields they went to a house where were a number of women and began to impose upon them one of the women left the house and gave notice to a small company of Mormons about 30 in number who had Collected together for their safty and defence in Case the Mob should attack them who upon hearing of the depredations which the Mob was committing And of the insults given to the women immediately repaired near the place where the Mob had collected and upon coming within about 7 or 8 rods the Mob who was armed and about 60 in number fired upon them the Mormons then returned the fire and there were two of the Mob killed also one Mormon killed by the name of Barber and some wounded on both sides the names of the Mob who were killed were Hugh L. Brazeale and Thomas Linville The said Hugh L Brazeale stated a short time before while in conversation with an old Gentleman in hearing of deponent that he Brazeale would wade to his knees in blood but what he would drive the Mormons from the county if he could get but ten men to follow him. On the 5th day of November 1833 the Arms of the Mormons were demanded by Col Pitcher who it was said had orderd out the Militia (by order of Lieut Gov Boggs as was said) and appointed a committee to receive the arms some of whom were the most actively engaged in the Mob at the time the Printing Office was thrown down namely Henry Chiles Abner Staples and Lewis Franklin. Col Pitcher also stated at the time that if the Mormons would give up their arms they might return to their homes and live in peace Accordingly upwards of about 50 guns were delivered up which have never yet been returnd to the Mormons This Col Pitcher after the guns were given up stated that the Mormons must leave the County forthwith and if they would not go peacably they would be compelled to go at the Muzz[l]e of the gun to He then ordered his rigament several hundred men in to small companies of 15 or 20 in each Company they were marched through the County in every direction threatning the whole Mormon Community with immediate death if they did not forthwith leave the County The Rev. Isaac McCoy was in one of the aforesaid Companies the result of these opperations were that the whole of the aforesaid Community were forced out of the County and in the utmost Confusion had to flee in almost every direction to save their lives sacrifising the most of their property which the Mob either took possession of as their own or destroyed The most of the Mormons took refuge in Clay County at this time where they suffered great inconvenience in Consequence of being robbed of almost all they possessed we they remained their untill the summer of 1836. When public meetings were held and they were desired to leave the County and even Compelled to leave their habitations once more or take up arms against Mobs who were preparing to Come against us them Many at this time had purchased lands in that County and had to remove at a great sacrifice of property from Clay they the Mormons removed to Caldwell and Davies Countys And further this deponent saith that in November of the year of our Lord 1838 he heard certain Men say that They had been in the Mob against the Mormons in Dewitt Carrol County and also in Davies County and in Ray County and that they knew where there were fifteen Mormons put in one hole and Sixteen put into another hole that the Mormons had no knowledge of And Numbers of others through the Country and when interrogated on the subject they replied that replied they were Mormon dogs that had been killed thus comparing Mormon Citizens to dogs. And further this deponent saith that the History of the persecutions narrated By Parley P. Pratt so far as it relates to the robberies Murders imprisonments and all other Matters and things Connected with their abuses and expulsion from the State of Missouri (which is put up and marked document No 2 and now laid on the table by a vote of the Senate) is substantially true to the best of his knowledge.

Oren P. X Rockwell

[Sworn to before B. K. Morsell, J.P., Washington, D.C., 3 Feb 1840.]

ROCKWELL, Sarah

Commerce Hancock Co Illinois Jany 2 1834

I certify that in the year A.D. 1833 I was residing in the County of Jackson in the State of Missouri In the fall of the same year, an armed force of men Came to our House and beat open the door and Windows, and demanded to know where my husband was, I told them I did not know where he was, they told I must tell them or Else I must be made to suffer. My Son lived in a house opposite, some of the men tore off the roof of his house and then went and took out his goods. I saw them destroy some of the Articles they brought out. Some time after we were obliged to leave that County and suffered a great deal of abuse had to take Shelter in the Woods in order to escape from the Armed force who were pursuing us.

In the Fall of 1838 I was residing in Caldwell County, Missouri about two miles from Far West The Latter part of October the same year I went from home and was absent three weeks. when I returned I found that my house had been plundered of Furniture Bed cloths and Wearing apparel so that I was not able to keep house.

During the time I was absent from home while in Caldwell Clay County at the House of Samuel H Ousley. I was informed that the Malitia had gone on to Far West; and they had left word that the mormons were to be exterminated and had left orders to that Effect. Being informed of this fact and having two of my sons along with me one fourteen years of age and the other Eighteen and Feeling anxous for their safety I advised them to go and hide in the Woods. they had not been gone long before an armed force came to the house, and made inquiry for the Boys, they said that they were going to exterminate the mormons and were going to make Clean Work; Not being able to find my Sons, they took a waggon and span of horses away, which I had brought to Convey me to that place, I then returned home and Found my house as above Stated

Sarah Rockwell

[Sworn to before D. H. Wells, J.P., Hancock Co., IL, 2 Jan 1840.]

ROGERS, Noah

State of Illinois Pike County

This Day personally appeard before me W. H Boling Clerk of the County Coms Court of said Co & state Noah Rogers & after being duly sworn Deposth & says That he Deponant who in the year 1838 moved into Davis Co Mo. & settled on a pece of Land & Cleard twenty Acres Expecting to have a preemption & Corn growing on said twenty acres & was compeld to leave it & from there to Adam ondiaham Whare the People cald Mormmons was compeld to assemble to gether for the Perpose of self Defence & whilst residing at the last named place This Deponant was followed by mobs & divers in dividuals & took from this Deponant a large a mount of Property to the a mount of two hundred Dollars & this Deponant and famley Driven out a bout thirty miles Into Caldwell County In the Month of Nov 1838 Thence Compeld to leave the State & come to [——] Illinois for reffuge and ferther this Deponant saith says not saith not

Noah Rogers

[Sworn to before W. H. Boling, C.C.C.C., Pike Co., IL, 14 Jan 1840.]

ROLLINS, James H.

January 13, 1840-

To the Honorable Senate and House of Representatives in Congress Assembled at the City of Washington in the district of Columbia-

I the undersignd do by these presents represent To Your Honorable body my Losses Sufferings and Troubles which I sustained and underwent by the hands of a Ruthless mob in the State of Missouri upheld and sustained by L. W. Boggs acting Governor of that state in the Year 1838. And this may Certify that on the 6th day of August, 1838. while at an Election held in daviess County Missouri, while we the people Called Mormons were Voting As the Law of our Country dictates and Guarantees unto us that we were hindred from this our privilege By a mob of the people of that County Raising against us and driving us from the polls with Clubs Raw Hydes &C. [——] Also drove us from the Town and Threatened me If I did not Leave the Town They would Pull down my House over my Head. and which House Contained heavy stones &C &C, and which I was obliged To Leave, and which was mostly distroyed, Also [——] Another Establishment of the same in same County was Broken Open and Liquor & C. Taken Out By the Milita as they Called Themselves under Brgd. Genl. Parks of that Division To a Large amt. and which they Took and made use of &C. Many other Losses To which I suffered which were very grievious To bear of Being driven from Land which I Had Entd. Town Lots &C. And the Loss of which Property Amounting To not less than 3000 Dollars which Loss I sustained By being driven from my Home under The Exterminatig Orders of his Excellency Lilbern W. Boggs. And By this I appeal To Your Honorable Body for redress of the sore Grievances which I And my Brethren have suffered for the Belief of the scriptures of Truth or in other words for our Religion.-And By this I importune at Your feet for Redress &C of My Wrongs And Your Servant will Ever pray-

James H. Rollins

P. S. I The undersigned Certify in addition That We the people Called Mormons after a Conference was held by The principal men of the Mo. Militia, was forced by the Point of the sword To sign a deed of Trust signing away our Lands. The principal man Engaged in this business was Thomas Birch Acting as States Attorney for that district, also Genl. Clark Commander in Chief of the Militia or [——] also Genl. Saml. D. Lucas of Independence Jackson County Mo.

James H. Rollins

[Sworn to before J. H. Randle, N.P., Madison Co., IL, 13 Jan 1840.]

ST. JOHN, Stephen M.

The State of Illenois Adams County

Personally appeared before me William Laughlin a Justice of the Peace for said County Stephen M. St John being Duly Sworn according to Law Deposeth & Saith that he moved into Missouri in the Year of our Lord 1836 Settled in Clay County hired a farm in said County and was Driven away by a Mob made up of the Sitizens of said County went from there to Davis county and settled upon Congress land built upon it improved it & raised a Crop was Driven from it with the loss Crop three horses three Cows & some hogs with household goods farming utensils & one waggon John Legate James Brown & others threatned to take my life Depont. further States that he left the State by the extermmanating order of Governor Boggs executed by General Clark & Wilson further Depont. saith not

Stephen M. St. John

[Sworn to before W. Laughlin, J.P., Adams Co., IL, 8 Jan 1840.]

SEELY, William

Affidavit of William Seely of Scott County Illinois, taken Jan 20th 1838 1840, in relation to the persecutions Sustained by the Mormons or Latter day Saints, in the State of Missouri A. D. 1838,

State of Illinois Scott County S.S.

William Seely of Scott County Illinois, of lawful age, says on oath; that in the Last of March A.D. 1838 he moved with his family to the State of Missouri, and Stopped in Davis County in Said State of Missouri, that in Said County he purchased a pre-Emption right to a tract of Congress Land for which he paid $200.00 and that he accumulated there personal propErty and interest in Crops property in value 250.$ making his property four Hundred and fifty Dollars in value, in the use of which this affiant was using his Endevors to become a resident Citizen of Said Davis County in good faith and due Submission to the Laws of the Said State of Illinois Missouri. And this affiant further says, that on the 28 10th day of October A.D. 1838, he was Surprised in the quiet and peaceable possession of the premises he occupied in Said Davis County by an armed mob Composed mostly and as he believes wholly of resident Citizens of Said State of Missouri and Compelled to relinquish all his said property to the plunderers, and make the best of his Escape to Caldwell County in Said State of Missouri with his family. This affiant further Says that on or about day of 24th October he went to Bunkham’s Strip a distance of about twelve miles from his Stopping place in Caldwell County, to See one Mr. Pinkham on business; while there he was Surprised & made prisoner by Some armed men. he was Stripped and Searched to see if he had any arms, by which he lost a Jack-knife the only weapon, offensive or defensive which he had about him; the armed men he believes were fifteen in number, two of whom Caught him by the Collar, thrust him out of doors, dragged him over a pannel of fence so vehemently as to do him bodily injury while at the same time a third one facilitated my his Course by the application of his foot to the rear of my his body-When over he was asked if he was a mormon, for to which he replied that he was; this affient further says that he was threatend by his Captors, that “he would never see home again.” &c. he was then Compelled to march, and asked where they were taking him? they Said to the rest of their Company. Who, he asked was their Captain? they Said, “Bogart.” Affiant arrived in Camp with his Captors and found them about Seventy Strong. Question then arose What Shall we do with the prisoner, many Said at once, “put him to death.” Especially was this the Cry of the volunteers who joined Bogart’s Company, many of whom were men not Liable to duty by Law but who volunteered to give a martial Covering to the bloody deeds which they sought to perpetrate.

on his arrival at Camp St Cook of Bogarts Company asked who they had got? The Captors Said, “a damned mormon!” Where did you Catch him asked Cook? down to old Pinkhams was the reply of his captors and we’ll blow his damned old brains out if he dont leave here before tomorrow morning. Affiant further says next morning after his Capture at daylight, his mormon friends Came down to his rescue, having heard of his Capture. When they approached they were fired upon by Bogart’s Company and one man fell. this affiant was then placed on an [-] in front of Bogart’s Company So as to be Exposed to the fire of both sides, about 12 feet from Bogarts line. At the word “fire” by Bogart this affiant attempted to Escape but was Shot in the left Shoulder by some one of Bogarts men, which prostrated him to the Earth, and he was supposed to be dead, but his friends took him and Carried him to his place his family, where after four months tedious Confinement he in a measure recoverd of his wounds; when in obedience to the Command of the Executive Gov. Boggs, issued from head Quarters, ordering all Mormons to leave the State, in the month of October 1838, I he left for Illinois in a State of Extreme destitution, deprived of all his property and suffering much from his wound which though measurably restored was yet verey troublesome. This affiant further says that one of his Captors who Considered him so dangerous a man as to justify him in robbing me him and taking my his life, told me him he would give me him forty acres of Land if I would go with him and renounce my his religion, all of which this affiant verifies with his Signature and oath, and further this affiant Says nothing.

Wm Seely

[Sworn to before E. Sells, J.P., Scott Co., IL, 20 Jan 1840.]

SHAW, Elijah, Sr.

Warsaw Hancock County Illinois Jan 6 1840

I do Sertify in the year 1838 November 5th that I was driven from my land by an armed Solgery I went to far west as I got there there was a large body of armed Soldiers inder the Command of general Clark took us prisoers demanded our arms which we gave up me and my son Gave up two guns put us under guard that no Man Should leave that place withou a pass From Some one of there officers by the point of Sword made us Sign to them all our Real and Personal property to defrey the expence of those Armies I heard general Clark Say that we need Not expects to See our leaders again for they Certainly would be put to death the Rest that He had Selected out would not be kiled I Saw Soldiers burn house logs boards, and used Corn Hay and fodder for their horses I heard general Clark also Say that the governors orders was to Exterminate us or dispece us off but on the ACount of our good behavior and the inclemcy of the weather he would let us Stay untill Spring But not put in another Crop

[Sworn to before A. Monroe, J.P., Hancock Co., IL, 6 Jan 1840.]

SHAW, Elijah, Sr.

Handcock Co State of Illenois

My native Country is in the State of new Jersey I emagrated to ohio in 1816 and then Emagrated to missouri in the 1833 landed In Jackson County June 22 I Settled down on Chongress land built ahouse and Cleared Ground Sewed turnip Seed my intention was To enter the land as soon as possible I lade in My winter provission the mob rose and gave orders that we must leave the County or be Masacreed we then left Jackson and went to Rey County by having to leave the County I lost all this property and lived in rey three years and two months thence I move to Caldwe[ll] County I enterd the N W qr of the S W qr T S 21 T 56 R 27 enterd another Joining quarte Joining the S W qr of the N W qr S 21 T 56 R 27 I enterd this land in the year 1837 in the months of may and october My personal property Consisted of a quantity of hogs and Corn Stock fodder buck wheat Seven acres of wheat in the ground Seven bee Stands 20 bushels of potatoes one plow four dozen Chickens one horse beast three Sheep two Calves quantity of Shingles one bull and Estimation of the loss of my property amounts To 2000 dollars also for damadges for being Driven from the Stat for my Self and famly amounts To 8000 dollars hancock County

[Sworn to before A. Monroe, J.P., Hancock Co., IL, 6 Jan 1840.]

SHEARER, Joel

January the ninth ano Domini one thousand Eight hundred and forty personally came Joel Shearer before me Elisha Petty one of the Justices of the peace in and for the County of Pike in the State of Illinois and being by me Sworn Deposeth and Saith that he the Said Shearer Suffered loss and Damage in the State of Missouri in the years ano Domini one thousand eight hundred and thirty eight and nine that he being a Resident of the State of Missouri in Caldwell County was ordered by the Authorities of Said State to leave Said State within Six months on pain of Death and that he Said Shearer was not individually accused of any neither collectively Accused of any misdemeanor against the Laws of Said State and he the Said Shearer further Saith that he is not Concious of ever having offended against the laws of the State of Missouri or these United States and that he is a Natural Born Citizen of the State of New York and being compeled to Sell his Real and part of his personal estate at a Reduced price Viz one hundred and Seventy Acres of Land lying in Caldwell County on which he the Said Shearer Suffered loss according to the best of his kowledge and belief eight hundred Dollars

the above land he Says was Entered and partly improved by himself for his own use

he further Says he thinks he Suffered one hundred and fifty Dollars loss on personal property including time and Expence &C of leaving the State of Missouri

Joel Shearer

[Sworn to before E. Petty, J.P., Pike Co., IL, 9 Jan 1840.]

SLADE, Benjamin

this I certify that I settled in Jackson County in the year 1831 and Bought Lands & stock, horses cattle hogs &c and in the year 1833 in the month December I was Driven from Jackson county to clay county, Leaving my land, with ten acres of improvement a house & stable and corncrib, six acres of wheat on the ground 2 stacks of wheat 1 stack of Rye 2 stack[s] of oats 5 or [6] tons of hay [——————] of corn 30 or 40 Barrels of corn 50 or 60 Bushels of potatoes, one hundred Bushels of turnips also 2 horses 7 head of young cattle 6 head of hogs fowls &C Beside som[e] of my house furniture, property and Dama[ges] Estimated at

$1000.00

Benjamin Slade

after living in Clay county 3 years I Removed to caldwell county By the Request of the inhabitance of Clay not Suffering so much loss of property But by breaking up and moveing-Damage

$100.00

after living in Caldwell county 2 years I was Driven to the state of Illinois leaving 80 acres of land unsold five or six acres under improvement one lot with good Buildings on lying in the town of Farwest which was worth one thousand Dollars Beside Hay corn potatoes one horse 50 Dollars worth of hogs-Besides great Distruction of house furniture [&]c property and Damages

Estimated $2000.00

[Not sworn.]

SLADE, Benjamin

State of Illinois Pike County Ss

This Day personally appeard before Me W. H. Boling Clerk of the County Coms Court with in & for the County of Pike a foresaid Benjamin Slade and after being duly sworn Deposth & says that he Deponant was Driven from Jackson County Mo. Illenois to Clay County & from thence to Caldwell County Mo. at Which time he Deponant sufferd mutch loss of Property in goods and cloths as well as well as houses & Lands Which Deponant left & from Caldwell County to the State of Illinois all of Which moving was Done at great loss & Expence as well as in danger of the life of this Deponant & family. all Which actings & doings is Conrary to Equity & tends to the Manifest Injury and oppression of this Deponant & farther this Deponant says not

Benjamin Slade

[Sworn to before W. H. Boling, C.C.C.C., Pike Co., IL, 14 Jan 1840.]

SLADE, Clark

Personally appeard before me the clerk of Pike Co Illinois, Clarke Slade & deposth & says that While living In Jackson Mo he sufferd mutch a a buce from a lawles banditty that a rose up to persecute him & other in consequence of their theer Religion his life being continually thretened till in the mo[n]th of December 1833 When him self & family & others was compeld to leave theer Homes to seeve theer lives & seek a shelter in some other place I then found a shelter in Clay County for a Short time then a gain compeld to leave & flee to Cald Well County Mo Whare I resided untill the year A D 1838 When the Governor of Mo Issued his order that Men Women & Children belonging to the Church of Latter Day Sinse Should leave the State or be Exterminated General Clark Publicly Declard that he would the Governors Orders Execute In the Month of Febuary 1839 I Clark Slade left Mo to Seek a home in some other State leaving my house & Lands In the hands of my Persecutors & they Pub[ . . .]d my last Cow the Damages of being Driven from the three a bove named Counties & State and loss of Property by means of being driven I estimate at two thousand Dollars & farther the deponant says nothing

Clark Slade

[Sworn to before W. H. Boling, C.C.C.C., Pike Co., IL, 14 Jan 1840.]

SLAKER, Coonrad

I do herby certify that at a low estimate the damages that I sustained in Missourie in consequences of Gov. Bogges exterminating order to amount to $100.00

Coonrad Slaker

[Sworn to before A. Brown, J.P., Pike Co., IL, 10 Jan 1840.]

SMITH, Alma

I hereby certify that my father stoped at Haun’s mill and was living in a tent at the time the massacre took place there. I was in the tent when the company rode up. some of our people hallored to the women and children to leave the tents I run into a blacksmith shop where my father was. I crept under the bellows as also did my brother and an other boy by the name of Charles Merrick I was wounded on the hip, my brother had his brains blown out, and the other boy received three wounds and has since died of them. My mother tells me that I was eight years old last month. I saw some of our enemies pull off my father’s boots before he was dead

Alma X Smith

[Sworn to before D. H. Wells, J.P., Hancock Co., IL, 3 Jan 1840.]

SMITH, Amanda [1]

To whom this may come, I do hereby certify, That my husband Warren Smith, in company with several other families, was moving from Ohio to Missouri, late last fall, We came to Caldwell County [—] Whilst we were traveling, And minding our own business we were stopt by a Mob. they told us that if we went another step they would kill us all. They then took our guns from us. (As we were traveling into a new country we took guns along with us.) They took us back five miles, placed a guard around us, And there kept us three day, then let us go. I thought to myself is this our boasted land of liberty. For Some Said that we must deny our faith or they would kill us, others said we should die at any rate. The names of the Heads of this mob were Thomas O Brion, County Clerk, Jefferson Brion, William [—] Esqr. And James Austin all of Livingston County Mo. After they let us go, we travelled ten miles when we came to a small town, Composed of one grist Mill And One Saw Mill, And eight or ten houses belonging to our Brethren. Here we stopped for the night, when a little before Sunset, a mob of three hundred persons Came upon us. The men hollored for the women and Children to run for the woods, And they ran into an old blacksmith’s Shop, for they feared that if we all run together they would rush upon us, And kill the women and Children. The mob fired before we had time to run from our Camp, Our men then took off their hats And swung them round, and Cried, quarter, quarter untill they were Shot down. The mob paid no attention to their cries nor entreaties but fired alternately, I took my little girls (my boys I Could not find) And started for the woods. The mob encir[cled] all sides except towards the brook, I ran down the bank, across the millp[ond] and plank, up the hill into the bushes. The bullets whistled around us all the way like hail, and Cut down the bushes on all sides of us. One girl was wounded by my side and fell over a log, her clothes hung across the logs [and] they Shot at them expecting that they were hitting her, and our people af[ter] wards Cut out of that log twenty bullets. I sat down to witness the dre[d]ful scene. When they had done firing, they began to howl and one woul[d] have thought that all the infernals had came from the infernal lower regi[on] They plundered the principal part of our goods, took our horses and waggon and then ran off howling like Demons. I then Came back to witness [the] awful scene. Oh Horrible! What a sight! My Husband murdered and stript naked before life had entirely gone out of him, And one of my Sons of fourteen ten years old lying lifeless on the ground, And anoth[er] Son badly wounded Seven years old; the ground Covered with the dead. These little boys had Crept under the bellows in the Shop. Another boy ten years old had three wounds in him, he lived five weeks and then died. Realize for a moment the Scene. It was sunset, nothi[ng] but horror and distress. The dogs filled with rage, howling of over their dea[d] masters, whilst the Cattle Caught the Scent of innocent blood and bellowed most awfully: A dozen helpless widows, thirty or forty fatherless Children Screaming and groaning for the loss of their husbands and fathers, the groans of the wounded and dying was enough to melt the heart of anything but a Missouri Mob. Fifteen were dead, And ten wounded, or more, two of whom died next day. The women were not able to bury the dead, So they were thrown into a dry well And Covered with dirt. The next day the Mob Came back. They told us, we must leave the State forthwith or leave the State or be killed. It was Cold weather, And they had our teams and Clothes our men all dead or wounded. I told them that they might kill me And My Children in welcome; They Sent to us from time to time, that if we did not leave the State they would come and kill us. We had little prayer meetings, they Said, if we did not stop them they would kill every one of us, man, women and Child. we had Spelling Schools for our little Children. And they Said we must also Stop them. We did our own milling, And got our own wood, no man to help us. I started on the first of Feburary for Illinois, without Money, (mob all the way) drove my own team, Slept out of doors; I had four Small Children, we Suffered hunger, fatigue and cold. And for what? for our religion, Where? In a boasted land of liberty. Deny your faith or die, was the Cry. I will mention Some of the names of the heads of the Mob. Two brothers by the name of Cumstock, William and Benjamin Ashby, Robert White, And one by the name of Rogers who took an old Scythe and Cut an old white headed man all to pieces. I wish further also to State that when the Mob Came there (as I was told by one of them afterwards) their intention was to kill every thing belonging to us that had life, And that after our men were Shot down by them, they went around and Shot all the dead men over again to make sure of their lives. I now leave it with this Honorable Government to Say what my damages may be; or what they would be willing to see their wives and Children Slaughtered for, as I have seen my husband, son & others. I lost in property by the Mob, To goods stolen fifty Dollars, one pocket book and fifty Dollars Cash, notes damage of horses and time, one hundred Dollars one gun ten dollars, In Short my all whole damages are more than the State of Missouri is worth. Written by my own hand in truth and soberness, This eighteenth day of April 1839.

Amanda Smith

[Sworn to before C. M. Woods, C.C.C., Adams Co., IL 7 May 1839.]

SMITH, John

This is to Certify to the wrongs and injuries that I received in Missourie, I arrived in Far West on the 2nd of October 1838, where I intended to beCome a peasfull inhabitant of that Co; Some of the last days of Oct I was going after ahead of Corn in Company with Wm. Cary; we had a wagon and a Span of horses; we was met by three men that was armed with rifles, they had one prisoner with them; they told us we ware their prisoners Mr Carey asked them by what Arthorety they Should make us, prisoners while we ware peasfully attending to our own Concerns; they gave us Some threats-I told them we ware peacefull and we wished the[m] to use as priseners; a man by the name of Dunihue told me that I nead not feer you wil make a damd good wagoner for us; but for that damd Sone of a bich directing his words to Mr Carey-all that he is fit for is for Sausage Stuffing; and the quicker he is used for it the bettor; they placed several guns in our wagon we then drove to their Camp a bout thre miles; af ter we came in to their Camp they toock up their guns and fired them of except one which missed fire-they layed it down and left the gun Cocked; this Mr Dunehue came a long and got in to the wagon to hand out the guns he picked up the gun that was Cocked and Said, hear you damd son of a bich; you have Cocked your gun to Shoot us; Cary replied I did not cock it; Said Dunihue, dont you Contradict me you damd Sone of a bich; you by the time the words ware out of his mouth he Struck Mr Carey a full blow with the brich of his gun upon his head, I was Sitting by the Side of Mr Cary upon the Same Seat when he received the fatal blow

Mr Cary pitched for ward and would have falen out of the wagon; but I caught hold of him and raised him in to the wagon; his head was Split open-the Sergon washed his wound and Sowed it up; he was in griat miserey but could not Speak a word; he lived a bout forty four houres and expired-the mob Stole my horse from me the malitia troops that Mr Dunihue belonged to; was under General Lucus; I was compelled to Sine a dead of trust and leave the State

John Smith

[Sworn to before J. Orr, J.P., Adams Co., IL, 8 Jan 1840.]

SNOW, Willard

I hereby certify that I was a permanent Citizen of Caldwell Co Missourie from the fall of 1836 untill the winter of 1839 when I was compelled by an exterminating order of Gov Boggs to leave the State without any civil process ever at any time being attempted to be sustained against me either for debt or crime near the first of Nov 1838 an armed force under command of General Lucas of Jackson co invaded Caldwell and quartered in the vicinity of Far West ordered the arms of the caldwell militia to be delivered into their hands among whome was a company of volunteers who stood as minute men able evry moment to be called upon to defend the frontiers against invasion they took possession of the town making it the head quarters of the army burning building timber boards rails fence &c they burned my siding flooring lumber for my hous & fence round my lot and left it a desolation destroyed my apple trees without leave or remuneration to this day they also plundered and destroyed near one thousand bushels of corn seven stands of honeybees & some farming tools besides other things bing deprived myself of secureing my crop or even putting up the fence after them they ordered all the mormons to leve the state after signing away all their property at the point of the sword & bayonet

Major Gineral Clark soon arrived with his army the officer to whome the order was really given he sanctiond all that Lucas had done and selected about sixty persons and without any legal process marched them off in a drove together like a flock of Sheep to Ray county without their knowing for what we petitioned for relief to the Legislature but to no purpose I therefore was obliged to leave the state leaving my entire property in Caldwell co Missourie I held a deed second handed from the land office of one hundred and twenty five acres of valuable land thirty five acres of improvements good buildings and large stock of cattle hogs sheep &c have suffered much and also my family in consequence of being forsed to leave my home in the winter my wife and young babe [—] fell from the waggon and was nearly killed upon the frozen ground upon her Journey to Illinois the marks of her sufferings she must carry to her grave

[Sworn to before D. W. Kilbourn, J.P., Lee Co., IL, 10 Jan 1840.]

SOUTHWORTH, Chester

Illinois Handcock Co Town of Warsaw Jan 6 1840

Be it none to whome it may Conscern that I testify and saw in the State Missouria Colwell Co. Town of Farwest a Large Body of Armed Men Came in to the Town and Demanded of the Inhabitance of that County and Town there Arms and to give them selves up as Priseners of and I saw them lay Dow ther arms the Town was then garded for some Days until General Clark came with a large armey of men and we were then called to gether a gane and Inforsed under the penalty of Imprisenment to sin a Deed of Trust as they caled it depriving us of all our Rights and priviledgs in the state this I state as being the truth I by not this Took plase Nov 1838

Chester Southworth

[Sworn to before A. Monroe, J.P., Hancock Co., IL, 6 Jan 1840.]

SQUIER, Charles

Damages Sustain In Consequec of being Driven from Caldwell County Mo in 1838

Fifteen acres of Land and Improvements one hundred and fif ty Dollars 150

one claim In Davis County Contyning two Hundred and forty acres Damage three hundred Dollars 300

Charles Squier

[Sworn to before W. Frye, C.C.C.C., Calhoun Co., IL, 15 Jan 1840.]

STANTON, Daniel

I Daniel Stanton testify that on the first of Nov. 1839 the Militia Came to Davis County and Campt. Before my house with an order from gov. Bogg to Exterminate the mormons from the State several of them intruded on my family to wit John Handley James R Handley Calvin Milsap Caleb Samson Benj. Tayler John McCulla and some others and made my Wife and family Cook for them and find the provison without Compensation them and some others opend a trunk and took some sheets Pillow slips and other goods from it and stole a mare and Colt from me and Cow and Calf James Blakely have the Cow & Calf, Nathaniel Blakely Jame Blakely Benj. Tayler Newton Creekmore Wm. Bowman Wm. Peniston Francis Peniston Wm. Mann and Jacob Rogers were in the Battle at hons Mill in Caldwell County Mo. & also heard Jacob Rogers say he hand kild one mormon with his Corn Cutter and he inted to kill ten more Before he stopd. these things I heard them state. this above I Daniel Stanton Certify to Be true according to the Best of my knowledge

[Sworn to before W. Tainter, who signed for C. M. Woods, C.C.C., Adams Co., IL, 18 Mar 1840.]

STEPHENS, Henry

Handcock Co and State of Illinois

I doe hereby testify that while I was living in Caldwell co and State of Missouri I saw an armed soldirrie marching in Caldwell co and swearing they would kill every Mormon in the State. they came and surrounded us and and took our arms that we had to perform milatory duty and took Joseph Smith Jnr Sidney Rigdon Lyman Wight and fifty or sixty others and drove them off like Sheep for market and swore that Smith, Rigdon, White and others should never return, and this was done with out any legal pretx and they burnt house logs boards rails & without libirty killd Cattle Sheep and hogs. and robd a boy of a good horse and said they would kill all the men Womin and children. took [——] corn and destroyed our property and compeld me to sign a Dead of trus[t] to pay their expences and this they did at the point of the Sword and compeld us to a gree leave the state at the peril of our lives. this I testify that General Clark Said that he had orders from Govened Bogs to exterminate us but as we had behaved ourselves so well, he would let us go with our lives if we would leave the state, this was done in the year one thousand eight hundred and thirty eight

Henry Stephens

[Sworn to before A. Monroe, J.P., Hancock Co., IL, 6 Jan 1840.]

STEVENSON, Henry

Mo october 1838

I Herry Stevenson was a moveing my family to the wester[n] part of the state of Mo I was met by a mob in Carl Co which a bused my wife & family with bad language & threatning our live & turned my horses loose from my waggon & gave my feed to their horses & continued it 2 nights we continued our journey in company with Benjamin Hoit the third day after we ware insulted &nd abused we arived at carlton the county seat & their we was met by a sentral man who cocked his gun & damned me to stop or he would blow me through if stept one step further immediately to men rode up armed with swords & pistols & damned me to go on or they would shoot me & drawed their pistols & I told them the other man had swore if I went another step he would shoot me & now said I which shall I obey & they ordered him to shoulder his gun which he did & I proceeded a few rods further & was met by acompany of armed men about 20 that stoped my horses & took possession of my waggon I wanted to know what they intended to do they in quired if I had any arms or amunition & ordered my wife & _ daughters out of my waggon one of my daughters was sick at the time which excuse they would not receive but said she must get out of the waggon I pled to let her alone but they presented & cocked several guns, & drew knives at me & damned me to speak another word and they would blow me through & dragged my daughter out of the waggon & searched my waggon & throwed my goods in the street & broke a mantle clock & carried of my rifle & amunition & aftr they had searched my waggon & counsel was that I should turn about & go back & not stay within 10m of that place that night or they would massacree us & their was about fifteen armed men followed us about one mile & I also was known to the sufferings of a man by the name of John Gilles that lived in Randolph Co Mo wher[e] I stayed through the winter but durst not let myself be known acitise[n] by the name of Nelson Howard went to said Gillises house & took his Gillises horse & bridle to huntsville & sold the horse for $11.00 he then came home & hired a mob at fifty cents apiece to mob the old man & family away they went on them on sunday evening & shot his dog & went in & drawed the old man out of bed and abused him & brok[e] his clock & carrid of some property & gave him five days to leave the place I saw the broke clock & two of the mob told me they ware hired to go & what they had done I went three or four day after & moved the old man & family by hi[s] request for said he they will kill me & I moved him in the month of dec to acabin with out chimney chink or dob & they destroyed his corn &c

Henry Stevenson

[Sworn to before W. H. Boling, C.C.C.C., Pike Co., IL, 14 Jan 1840.]

STILLMAN, Dexter

Deposition of Dexter Stillman of the County of Scott and State of Illinois, in refference to the matter of the Losses Sustained by the Latter-day Saints or Mormons in the State of Missouri, A. D. 1838. taken on the 18th day of Jan. 1840,

State of Illinois Scott County SS.

Dexter Stillman, of the County of Scott and State of Illinois, being Sworn Says that he is of Lawful age, and that in the month of June 1838 he left the State of Ohio for the State of Missouri, and that on or about the middle of July A.D. 1838, he arrived at Far West, Caldwell County State of Missouri with the Sole intent of becoming a resident of Sd. State of Missouri in good faith and due submission to the laws of Said State; that to this End he purchasEd a piece of Land, and became a householder in Said County, and was in proper discharge of his duties as a Citizen; and this deponent further says that on or about the first day of November A.D. Eighteen hundred and thirty Eight, he was Surprised in his said premises by a mob of armed men Composed mostly, & he believes wholly of Citizens of the State of Missouri, who then & there Compelled him to Surrender his premises, made him prisoner, and Compelled to themselves a Convey over in trust of his Said real Estate, and by force and arms dispossessed him of his possessions in Said County, Compelling to deliver his arms and become their prisoner; and this affiant further Says that in accordance with the order of Gov. Boggs of the Said State of Missouri isSued from Head Quarters, Oct. 27th A.D. 1838, he was Compell to leave the Said State of Missouri in an Extremity of Suffering destitution under pain of forfeiture of his life, and further the deponent Saith not.

Dexter Stillman

[Sworn to before E. Sells, J.P., Scott Co., IL, 18 Jan 1840.]

STUEART, Nathan

This is to certify to the wrongs and the injuries which I have received in Missouri

In Novem, 1833, I arrived in Jackson County state of Missouri and was Stoped by a man by the name of Davis and Said that they the Citizens of Jackson were determined to drive all of the Mormons from the County, and Said if I attempted to go any farther that they would destroy me and property and the next Morning there Came three Mob men and Mr. Davis began to wring his hands and Cried Saying they will throw down my house and Soon after there Came twelve men to the house of Mr Davis and drove us back Swearing three miles th[r]eatning us and frequently pointing their guns at us Saying if we did not leave forth with they would destroy us and property and at a nother time I was driven from my home and had a gun at the Same time pointed at me and the man Swore he would blow my Church were Surroundd by an Armed force of about 6 thousand who threatened to Burn the town and destroy both men women and Children without any Reserve I was then taken prisioners and compeled to Sign a deed of trust to pay of the Militia for burning houses pilliageing goods destroying Crops and Stock also for killing some of the Society in the most Savage maner I was also Commanded to leave the state forth with or be exterminated by order of Genral Clark Commander in Chief

Nathan Stueart

[Sworn to before J. Orr, J.P., Adams Co., IL, 8 Jan 1840.]

TAYLOR, Gabriel N.

State of Illinois Hancock County

I testify that in Conce quence of a mob in ray county Mo 1838 that I was Compeld to leave my home and fam Ily to save my life they came A company of armd men thretend my life one of them drew A pistol to shute me But did not[.] Af ter this afew days they Came A gane armd and robd me of my rifle gun and pistol At the same time sear chd my house for moneye and thratened mylife as Before at the same time my Self and family was all sick they Com peld me and my family to leave the state fourth with I lost or left my Crops and stock which which Causd my fam Ily to suffer for want of them. But as yet have had none of it returnd

I sus taind a loss of property to the amount of $1500 in time and property

Gabriel N. Taylor

[Sworn to before A. Monroe, J.P., Hancock Co., IL, on 6 Jan 1840.]

TEEPLES, George B.

Handcock Co State of Illinois December 1835

I arived at Liberty Misouri Clay County Misouri and in the Summer of 1836 there was A meeting of the mob of Jackson and Clay Counties met at the Cort house in liberty Clay Co and resolved that our peeple Should leve that Co but after proposed that if we would Comply with a propision that they would proscribe that they would Choose a Committe and Survey a Certain Scope of Cuntry or territory and there let us dwell in pease we acordingly Consented to there proposeals and they Chose Judg Camran and neel Gillam and they Chose a Scope of Cuntry now none by the name of Colwell County there we lived in pease for all most two years but the Summer of 1838 the mob Commenced a gain in Davis County at an election in galiton there was a gineral Combat took place in Consequence of our peeple voting I was living at that time in Levengston County and I was notified by the mob that they had resolved that there Should not one of our peopls live in that County and that they would give mee four days to leave the County two families of us then moved into Davis County the mob then Commensed taking our horses Cattle and Sheep and taking prisoners of both men and women and Children we then aplied for protection and gineral Atcherson amediate ly Cauled out his malitia and marched for davis Co and took his Stasion near milport for to disperse the mob and did so in part the next that I am an eye witness to was the gathering of the militia against farwest in oct 1838 the day after there Encampment against far west they Presented on or to us an order from the governer that we Should give up our arms to them and deliver up Sertain prisoners and sign away all our property to pay the expensies of the war and leave the State fourthwith or bee Exterminated this we ascerted to we then was Surrounded by a Strong guard on the Square and Compeled to Sign away all of our property then they Selected fifty men which they made prisoners and Marched for richman them Jail

George B Teeples

[Sworn to before A. Monroe, J.P., Hancock Co., IL, 6 Jan 1840.]

THOMAS, Daniel S.

The State of Illinois Adams County S.S. January 7th 1840

This day personally appeared before me William Laughlin a Justice of the peace within Said County, Daniel S Thomas who being duely Sworn according to Law Deposeth and Saith, in the year 1837 & 38 A CitiSen of the State of Missouri Held a Claim of 160 Acres on Congress Land with an Improvement of 20 Acres And was Compelled to Lay down my arms & then Taken prisner for Several days In far West and Then was forced off to Richmond Prisson for 16 Days and then was acquited and Then In the Month of Febuary 1839 Had to Leave the State by the Governors decree.

Daniel S Thomas

[Sworn to before W. Laughlin, J.P., Adams Co., IL, 7 Jan 1840.]

THOMPSON, Lewis

State of Illinois Adams County SS

This day personally Cam[e] before me William Laughlin a Justice of the peace of Said Cty. Lewis Thompson being duly Sworn deposeth & saith that he was a citizen of Caldwell Co. Mo. in 1838 and that he Sd deponet Entered the S.E. 1/4 N.w. 1/4 and S.W. 1/4 N.E. 1/4 of Section No 20 in Township No fifty six North of the base line and West of the 5th principa[l] Meridian of Range No 27 Containing Eighty acres at the Land office Lexington Missouri and then resided peaceable until I was Compelled to leave the State by the Governors exterminateing orders executed by General Clark and others

Lewis Thompson The aforesaid Deponent further Says That William J Thompson was a Citizen and in peaceable possession of the SW—-SW—-of Section No. 17. Township No. 56. Range No. 27. And was Compelled to leave the Same by Govenors Boggs Exterminat[in]g Orde[rs] executed by General Clark & others as will be Seen by the Duplicate to the above land refered to

Lewis Thompson

[Sworn to before W. Laughlin, J.P., Adams Co., IL, 7 Jan 1840.]

THORP, John

State of Illinois Handcock Co

I testify that a mob arose in Carl Co State of Missouri headed by Sashel Wood a presbyterian Preacher and marched into the Town of Dewett and fired their their guns and frightend the women this Town belongd to us and they notified us to leave there in ten days. after ten days they [—] came and fired on us. Some time after this they came and made an a tact up on us and after firing some time caralled us so that we could not go out to hunt our cattle without being shot at they kild of our cows and oxen distroyed our corn burnt [——] one house and drove us from the place and we fled to Far West for safety in Caldwell Co and soon after we got there the militia came in and surrounded camped on our land with out liberty and disarmed us and surrounded the city and burnt our house logs fences &c kild sheap cattle and hogs, took oats corn & without liberty and forced us at the point of the sword to sign a dead of trust to defray their expences and compeld us to agree to leave the state but gave us till spring to doe so. after this when going after corn that belonged to our people the mob drove us back and would not suffer us to gather our own corn thus the sun we remaind exposed to the storm till the spring this was in 1838 and in 39 we had to leave the state

John Thorp

[Sworn to before A. Monroe, J.P., Hancock Co., IL, 6 Jan 1840.]

TURNER, Lewis

Damages Sustain I in Los of Lands in of Caldwell county Seventy four acres with Improvemens Valued at ten Dollars per acre the Whole a mount Seven hundred and forty Dollars 740

Lewis Turner

[Sworn to before W. Frye, C.C.C.C., Calhoun Co., IL, 13 Jan 1840.]

TURNER, Nelson

Alton the thirteenth January AD 1840

To the Honorable the Senate and House of Representatives in Congress Assembled in the City of Washington Destrict of Columbia

I hereby represent to Your Honorable Body My Losses and Sufferings By the hands of the Mob in the state of Missouri And this may Certify That I was Threatened by the mob that they would shoot me whip me &C. And many other sufferings Too numerous to mention And this may Certify that the losses, which I sustained are no Less than 780.00 Dollars by Their driving me from my home &C.

Nelson Turner

[Sworn to before J. H. Randle, N.P., Madison Co., IL, 13 Jan 1840.]

TURNER, William

Being drove from Coldwell Co. Mo. and the damage

1838 Sevnty three Acres of land at ten dollars per acre the loss of Corn wheet potatoes & Hogs Cattle Sheep three Hundred Dollars also the damage & expense of moving in the winter Two Hundred Dollars the whole amount $1330

William Turner

[The following is a land description furnished by William Turner.]

73 acres of Land part of E 1/2 ofthe SE 1/4 of Sec 2 T 55. NW 5 pm Range 29. Cont[g] 80 [acres]

[73 acres of land part of] NE 1/4 of NE 1/4 of Sect 11. T 55. N.W 5 pm. R 29. 40 [acres]

[73 acres of land part of] SE 1/4 “ NW 1/4 “ “ 12. T 55. N.W 5 pm. R 29. 40

belonged to the aforesaid Wm Turner.

74 acres ofthe foregoing Tracts belonged to the aforesaid Lewis Turner.

[7]0 acres ofthe above Tracts belonged to the aforesaid Charles Squires

5 “ ofanother tract bought by Said Squires of Martin Alred belonged to Said Charles Squires

The enclosed duplicates will Show as to Turner’s enteries at the Land Office at Lexington

[Sworn to before W. Frye, C.C.C.C., Calhoun Co., IL, 13 Jan 1840.]

TYLER, Elisabeth

Illenois Quncy Sept 30th 1839

A bill of Damages for Being Driven from the State of Missouri by a mob-

I certify the abov a count to Be true and Just acording to the Best of my knowledg

Elisabeth Tyler

[Not sworn.]

WALKER, John R.

Alton January 13, 1840

To the Honorable House of the Senate & Representatives in Congress Assembled at the City of Washington And District of Columbia

I the undersigned do by these presents represent To You my Losses and Sufferings in the State of Missouri in the Year 183[8]. &C by the Hands of a mob who pillaged and destroyed my Goods &C. &C. in Jackson and Caldwell Countys and Which Losses I Certify To be no Less than Five Hundred Dollars further that I suffered many Injuries from this mob By Breaking in my Windows By Thrusting Long Poles Through at My family and Driving them from their Habitation.

John R. Walker

[Sworn to before J. H. Randle, N.P., Madison Co., IL, 13 Jan 1840.]

WALKER, William C.

Alton January 13, 18[40]

To the honorable Senate and House of Representatives in Congress Assembled at the City of Washington District of Columbia

I The Undersigned do by these presents Represent To You my Losses And Suffering in the State of Missouri in the Year 1838 By the Hands of the Mob in that State who Distroyed and pillaged My Goods & Chattels and drove me and my family from my home. And do Certify my Loss of property To be no Less than Six Hundred Dollars

Wm C. Walker

[Sworn to before J. H. Randle, N.P., Madison Co., IL, 13 Jan 1840.]

WEEVER, Edward

This is to certify that I Edward Weever formoly of Coldwell County Missourie do certify that I Entered a certain tract of land in the aforsaid county lying in Section 30 T 56 North of the base line and west of the fifth principle meredian Range No 28 containing forty acre[s] was compelled to Sacrafise my land and leave the State in consequen[ce] of the Governors exterminating orders allso I had one Set of house logs burned up in consequence of the militia who marched on our posessions and encamped there without liberty. And likewise I saw a prisener Shamefully abused who was taking by the militia January-1840

Edward Weever

[Sworn to before A. Brown, J.P., Pike Co., IL, 10 Jan 1840.]

WELCH, John

Alton Ill. January 13, 1840

To the honorable Senate and House of Reprsentatives in Congress Assembled at Washington City District of Columbia

I the undersigned do Hereby Certify to You my Losses, Sufferings &C. in the state of missouri By the Hands of a Mob By driving me from my home and depriving me from the comforts of Life And do by these presents Certify the Losses which I have Sustained To be no Less than five Hundred Dollars; And further Certify that I was Threatened To be shot and was obliged To Leave all and flee to save my Life

John Welch

[Sworn to before J. H. Randle, N.P., Madison Co., IL, 13 Jan 1840.]

WHILOCK, Andrew

State of Illenois Pike County

This Day personally appeard before me W. H. Boling Clerk of the Couty Com. Court Andrew Whillock and after being duly sworn Deposth & says that in the Fall of 1835 This Deponant moovd to Clay Co Mo & on or a bout July following ther was some Difficulty a Rose Con[ce]rning the Mormons that this Deponant Caulds him self a Mormon that in consequence of his religious belief Deponant was for[ce]d to leave the County of Clay & seek reffuge in Cald Well County Mo, That Deponant thinks that he must of lost five hun hundred dollars. That in C[l]ay County this Deponant had forty acres of Land that will more fully appear from a certiffed of the register heare with fild & also In Cald Well 80 Acres both of whitch Places this Deponant & family have been Driven form & farther this Deponant says not

Andrew Whilock

[Sworn to before W. H. Boling, C.C.C.C., Adams Co., IL, 14 Jan 1840.]

WHITING, Elisha

In the year of our Lord 1837

I Elisha Whiting of the Church of Jesus Christ of latter day Saints, moved my family into the State of Missouri, Clay County for the purpose of making a permanent settlemen[t] I soon purchased an improved farm & moved my family consisting of a wife and 5 children onto the same. in a few months 6 out of the 7 were taken sick a part of them were put into a waggon on a bed and moved to Caldwell Co myself being left, and soon taken sick and in a few days a mob threatened to come upon and drive me from my home not withstanding my sickness. [——————] gave me but through the kindness of a neighbor who informed me of the plot, and offered me an asylum under his roof which I accepted and escaped from their snare. I had preveiously purchased an 80 of goverment land in the county of Caldwell for which I had paid my money. my family then there and not hearing what had be[c]ome of me Sent one of my sons to learn: he found me very low. but put me into his waggon on a bed and carried me to Caldwell: where I lay sick for many months two of my sons together with a son in law: had also bought of government and paid their money for the same; consisting of 300 and 20 acres. and there we thought surely to settle ourselves in peace as the authorities of the County of Clay, had promised us protection: but in this we were mistaken for not many days after our move a ruthless act of barbarians, living in the State of Mo. and even claiming to be the free born sons of America marched their thousands of deamons into the County and there threatened to extirminate or drive us from our lands and home and we being insufficient to meet so large a band of ruffians, were obliged to submit: and for a trifling Sum to Sign away our duplicates and then to cap the climax driven in the month of March through cold storms of Snow and rain, having to make our beds on the cold wet ground which when we arose in the morning we often found drenched with water and then obliged to load our wet bedding into the waggon and move slowly forward [2] but after all our sufferings we finally reached a friendly and hospitable people in the State of Illinois for whose friendly feelings, our hearts ought ever to flow with gratitude. and we are now here without a foot of land that we can call our own.

[Sworn to before J. Orr, J.P., Adams Co., IL, 8 Jan 1840.]

WILSON, Bradley B.

January 7th 1840 The state of Illenois Adams County SS

this day personally appeared before me William Laughlin a Justice of the Peace within said County

Bradley B. Wilson who being Duly sworn according to Law deposeth and saith that he was a sitizen of Ray County Missouri in the year A.D. 1838 and that he entered at the Land office in Lexington Layfayett County one hundred & twenty acres of land situate in Ray County Township No 54 that he had possession of the same and lived upon it that he was forced to leave the same and also the State by the authorities of the state of Missouri this Deponent further states that he was passing along the Road and was shot at chased vigerously by a party of perhaps 8 or 10 men and was Detained as Prisoner of war under General Lucas three days Contrary to law further Deponent saith not

Bradey B. Wilson

[Sworn to before W. Laughlin, J.P., Adams Co., IL, 7 Jan 1840.]

WILSON, Eleanor

The State of Illenois Adams County SS

Personally appeared before me William Laughlin a Justice of the Peace in and for said County Eleanor Wilson being duly Sworn according to law Deposeth & Saith that She moved into Missouri in 1836 and Settled in Davis County in 1837 upon Congress land and gained a preemption improved & raised a Crop & had it Secured was driven by the mob from it lost Crop one Cow & some hogs and all her chickens sauce &C She States further that She had another house built and was driven from it by the mob in the dead of winter under the most distressing Circumstances occasioned from Sickness & other Deprivation and lastly left the State from Boggs exterminating order

Eleanor X Wilson

[Sworn to before W. Laughlin, J.P., Adams Co., IL, 8 Jan 1840.]

WILSON, George C.

The State of Illenois Adams County SS Jany. 7th 1840

this day personally appeared before me William Lawlin a Justice of the Peace in and for said County Geo. C. Wilson who being duly Sworn according to Law Deposeth & saith that he moved into the state of Missouri in Oct. 1837 in Ray County and entered five one 80 & three 40 acre lots of land at the land office at Lexington Layfayett County for my own use and made it my holm while I lived in the State Deponent saith further that he was Compelled to leave the State and my his holm by Governor Boggs Exterminating order executed by General Clark & others he further said he was kept in Prision three days lay on the ground Sick further Deponent saith not

George C. Wilson

[Sworn to before W. Laughlin, J.P., Adams Co., IL, 7 Jan 1840.]

WILSON, Lewis D.

I hereby certify that I purchased from Congress Two hundred and forty acres of land lying in Caldwell County and State of Missouri and Was compelled to leave the same on a c count of the order of the executive of the State.

When the Malitia came to Far West they took from me a valuable Horse which broke up my team I made extertions to obtain it again but without success. I was obliged to part with my land (in order to make up my team and for means to get me conveyed out of the State) for one sixth of the value. I had consequently to part with the duplicates I had for the same

Lewis D. Wilson

[Sworn to before D. H. Wells, J.P., Hancock Co., IL, 3 Jan 1840.]

WILSON, Polly

A Bill of damage

I Polly Wilson A Widow and a mormon so cauld great has been my sufferings on the accoun of mobs while in the state of Mosouri which was a number of years I was driven from Jacson County and from Clay County and from davis County and from Caldwell County and thence out of the state without any provocation except the name mormon $1000

Polly X Wilson

Hancock County Illinois State

This day personally appeared before me the the under Signed an acting justice of of the peace within & for Said County polly Wilson and filed the following affidavit

I polly Wilon Do Solomnly Swear that the above Statements as I veriably believe are true

Polly X Wilson

[Sworn to before T. Crawford, J.P., Hancock Co., IL, 6 Jan 1840.]

WILSON, William

Morgan County State of Illinois SS

Personally appeared before me Ja A Graves an actting justice of the peace in and for the county of Morgan aforesaid Willian Wilson and on oath says he blongs to the Church of Jesus Christ of latter day saints, and in the summer of 1838 he went into the state of Missouri and purchased a house and lot in a small town Called Dewett in Carrol County in the state of Missourie aforesaid, he further says he obtoined a deed of said lot which he now holds but in consequence of the difficulties which took place between the missourians and the latter day saints soon after, and the threats of the missourians to drive the saints from that place he has never ventured to go to get his deed recorded this lot he values one hundred dollars[.] This deponant further says that in the early part of the difficulties aforesaid he left the state of Missouri and returned to his family in the state of Ohio and in consequence of the peremtory order of the executive of the state of Missouri for all the latter day saints to leave the state of Missouri he has never been permitted to come into possession of the property he left in the state of Missouri which consisted of the lot before mentioned and one cow worth twenty dollars also one rifle gun worth ten dollars and also one hundred dollars worth of goods which he shiped in Ohio for Richmond in the state of Missouri where they did not arrive untill after he left the state of Missourie[.] This deponant further says that in consequence of the [de]rangement of his business it is at least one hundred dollars damage to him this together with other losses So Sustained by by said deponant he says amount to three hundred and thirty dollars he therefore prays the interposition of Congress to aid and assist him in obtaining redress for his losses and injuries so sustained all of which are by said deponant respectfully submitted

William Wilson

[Sworn to before J. A. Graves, J.P., Morgan Co., IL, 24 Jan 1840.]

WINTER, David

I David Winter do certify that I bought a certain tract of land in the State of Missourie and county of Coldwell which was entered by Jesse Mann containing 80 acres lying in Section 22. T. 56. R 28 and allso another lot containing 40 acres in the aforesaid section which was entered by Henry McHenry both peaces I had bought and paid 950 dollars for but before the deeds was made out I was compelled to leave the state in consequence of Governors Bogg’s Exterminating orders to expell the Mormons the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints from the state of Missourie

I was therefore compelled to sell my land for no to pro cure means to leave the state at the a reduced price

and allso another piece in the afforesaid section containg 40 acres which was entered by Mr. Lyons which I was likewise compelled to sell

David Winter

a List of bamages that I sustained in Missourie in consequences of Gov. Boggs orders to exterminate the mormons

[Sworn to before A. Brown, J.P., Pike Co., IL, 10 Jan 1840.]

WOOD, Gideon D.

The State of Illinois Adams County SS. January 7th 1840

this day personaly appeared Before me Wm. Laughlin a Justice of the peace within Said County. Giddion D. Wood Mooved to Missouri Caldwell County 1838 and perchased an Improved farm being Compelled to leave it by the exterminating orders of the Governer. and Consider my Loss at Least 1000 Dollars

Gideon D. Wood

[Sworn to before W. Laughlin, J.P., Adams Co., IL, 7 Jan 1840.]

WOOD, Hannah

State of Illinois Adams County SS. January 7th 1840

This day personally appeared before me Wm. Laughlin a Justice of the peace within Said County Hannah Wood who being Duely Sworn according to Law. Deposeth and Saith, She being a neighbour of Mr John Daley Saw the Militia take of his propperty as much as 200 Bushels of Oats She likewise Saw them take off his hogs which were fated. She did not See them Kill but one threw Down his fences let in Cattle which Distroyed his Corn distroyed one beehive

Hannah Wood

[Sworn to before W. Laughlin, J.P., Adams Co., IL, 7 Jan 1840.]

WOODLAND, William

State of Illinois Adams County SS. January 7th 1840

This day personally appeared before me Wm. Laughlin a Justice of the peace for said County Wm. Woodland being duly sworn according to Law. Deposeth and Saith, in the year of 1837 he became a Citizen of Davis Co. Missouri in September Settled on Congress land made an improvment of about 5 Acres raised a good Crop of Corn and placed it in shocks and was driven from my home and lost my Crop & hogs. I was on the place long enough to gain a preemption, after I was taken prisener by the militia [—-] & my Gun Taken from me a man by the name of John Handley who punched me and struck me over the Head with his Gun and Had to leave the state by the Exterminatig Decree of the Governer

Wm X Woodland

[Sworn to before W. Laughlin, J.P., Adams Co., IL, 8 Jan 1840.]

WORTHINGTON, James

The State of Illinois Adams County SS

Before me William Laughlin one of the Justices of the peace for said County, personly came James Worthington who being duly sworn according Law deposeth & saith that he is the true owner of the Southwest quarter of the southwest quarter of section sixteen in Township 55, Range 28, in the County of Caldwell & State of Missouri, which forty acres of land the militia under command of Generals Lucas & Wilson Compelled him to assign away by a Deed of trust running to the State of Missouri, sometime in the month of october or november in the year 1838: And this Deponent further states that previous to this he was chased by four of said militia & when they could not get him they fired four guns at him, & about three or four days afterwards he was taken prisioner by said militia who kept him a prisioner about six or seven days, & after he was released they hunted & chased him about twelve days: & that afterwards said militia compelled him to leave said land without any compensation: & that they also compelled him & his family to leave the said State of Missouri, & that he was a Citizen of said state in the year aforesaid: & further this deponent saith not.

James Worthington

[Sworn to before W. Laughlin, J.P., Adams Co., IL, 7 Jan 1840.]

YALE, Hannah

I certify that I lived about two miles from Far West in Caldwell County Missouri. Early in November A.D. 1838 A company came to our house and took possession of the same, without any leave whatever as my husband was absent from home, they took several things from the house destroyed my corn and hay Shot our fowls and hogs and took my husbands working tools away

[Sworn to before D. H. Wells, J.P., Hancock Co., IL, 3 Jan 1840.]

YORK, Hannah

January 22 1840 Township of five five pike County

I the under sind have imbrased the truth as is in Jesus christ being 55 years of age and my Companion being 59 years of age 3 years a go with 2 Children a boy of 14 years of age and a helpless Criple girle moved in to Colwell County State of missouri and Entered us forty acres of land I Bilt a hous one stable smoke house crib hog pen & a bout 10 acres under cultivation for our fa[m]ley in hopse of spending our days with title property But alas our corn is gone wheat is gone our hay is gone our Cow is gone yea and my Companion is John york wase kild at the masacred by the mob at h[aun]s mill and I the wife of John york and have bin with my two helpless Children have a Blige to leave the state of missoury and now have know other sorse than present my case to the powers that be thus in Consequence of Govener Bogs of Misoury his and with his asisters given at Clark I am Left to move and [——————] and is this beeing to all to whare it may Come A true Statement of the fact of the above word of Is my hand and Seal

Hannah X York

I have suffered the loss of $250

I Hannah york Doe Solomnly Sware by the Ever living god that the be fore Mentioned is a true bill of My Suffrages in the before Mentioned Case so help Me god

hannah X york

[Sworn to before D. R. Rogers, J.P., Pike Co., IL, 27 Jan 1840.]

YOUNG, Phineas H.

Deposition of Phinehas H. Young of Scott County Illinois, in relation to the Losses of the MorMons in the State of Missouri in 1838, taken this 18th day of Jan 1840 in Said County Scott

State of Illinois Scott County SS.

Phinehas H Young of Said County of Scott of Lawful age, being Sworn deposeth and Saith, that on or about the twenty fith day of august AD Eighteen Hundred and thirty Seven he arrived at Far West, Caldwell County State of Missouri With the intent to become a Citizen of Said State, in good faith and due Submission to the Laws of Said State of Missouri; and further, that he purChased on Good Consideration one hundred and Sixty acres of Land in Said State; also three pre-emption rights, to Congress Lands for all of which he paid the Sum of five hundrd and Eighty five dollars, and that by other Lawful means he then accumulated personal property in value five hundred dollars; And this deponent further says that on or about the 28th day of October AD 1838, having been previously threatened, he was Surprised in the peaceable possession of his Said premises, by a Mob of Armed Men, Citizens of the State of Missouri, who then and there Compelled him Vi Et Annus to deliver up his Said premises and property to the aforsaid Mob of Armed men under pain of having his dwelling burnt and his family massacred, and that he was Compelled to leave the State of Missouri by order of Gov. Boggs issued on the 27th of October A.D. 1838 from Head Quarters at far West Jefferson City, under pain of death which order he obeyed in the greatest Extremity of Suffering and this utmost State of d[essittution] And further the deponent saith not.

Phineas H. Young

[Sworn to before E. Sells, J.P., Scott Co., IL, 18 Jan 1840.]

Notes

[1] Also found in HC 3:323–25 and in JH 18 Apr 1839.

[2] The last part of this petition was written twice, once without the date and once without the signature. The two have been combined.