On June 27, 1844, the president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and The United States presidential candidate, Joseph Smith, was assassinated. This tragic event took place in Carthage, Illinois, where Smith was being held in jail along with his brother Hyrum and fellow church leaders John Taylor and Willard Richards. The assassination marked a significant and sorrowful chapter in the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, ending the life of a prophet who had a profound impact on his followers and American religious history. As of June 27, 2024, it has been 180 years since his assassination.

The Life of Joseph Smith

Joseph Smith was born on December 23, 1805, in Sharon, Vermont. From an early age, he experienced a series of religious visions that would shape his destiny. In 1820, Smith had his First Vision, in which he saw God the Father and Jesus Christ, who told him that none of the existing churches held the fullness of the gospel. This vision set the course for his future mission.

In 1823, Smith was visited by an angel named Moroni, who revealed the existence of golden plates buried in a hill near Smith’s home. These plates, translated by Smith, became known as the Book of Mormon, first published in 1830. This work, considered scripture by members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, detailed the history and teachings of ancient prophets in the Americas.

Under the direction of the resurrected Christ, Joseph Smith formally organized the Church of Christ (later renamed The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) on April 6, 1830, in Fayette, New York. His leadership was marked by a series of revelations and the establishment of doctrines and practices that would define the new faith. Smith led his followers through periods of intense persecution, establishing communities in Ohio, Missouri, and Illinois.

The Martyrdom

The events leading up to Joseph Smith's assassination were filled with tension and conflict. The establishment of Nauvoo, Illinois, as a prosperous and rapidly growing city under Smith's leadership drew both admiration and resentment. Internal dissent and external opposition culminated in charges against Smith, including accusations of treason.

On June 27, 1844, a mob of approximately 150 to 200 men stormed Carthage Jail. Willard Richards, who survived the attack, and John Taylor, who was severely wounded but also survived, provided detailed accounts of the harrowing event. According to Richards, as the mob burst into the jail, Joseph Smith attempted to defend himself and his companions with a six-shooter, but he was overwhelmed by the sheer number of assailants. Taylor described how, after being shot multiple times, he tried to escape through a window but was gravely injured when he fell.

Smith's final moments were marked by a desperate leap from the second-story window. He was shot multiple times before falling to the ground, where he succumbed to his wounds. His brother Hyrum had been killed earlier in the attack, making the Smith brothers martyrs for their faith.

Parley P. Pratt's Account

Meanwhile, Parley P. Pratt, an apostle of the Church, and his companion were traveling on a steamer on the Mississippi River. Unbeknownst to them, Joseph and Hyrum Smith had been killed. Pratt recounts in his autobiography the eerie sense of foreboding he felt, describing a deep, inexplicable sorrow that came over him. He noted a sudden change in the atmosphere, feeling that something of great importance had occurred. It was not until later that he learned of the tragic events that had transpired in Carthage. Pratt's account adds a poignant layer to the narrative, highlighting the spiritual connection and profound loss felt by the early Saints even from afar.

Commemorating Joseph Smith’s Mission

Joseph Smith's life and mission continue to be commemorated by millions of members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints around the world. His teachings, leadership, and the foundation he laid for the Church have had a lasting impact on its members. The doctrines he established, including the concept of modern-day revelation and the organization of the Church, remain central to the beliefs of its members.

Smith's legacy is honored through the continued growth and influence of the Church he founded. The Book of Mormon, which he translated, is a cornerstone of Church scripture, and his teachings are studied and revered. The annual commemoration of his martyrdom serves as a reminder of his dedication and sacrifice in the face of immense adversity.

Reflections

The assassination of Joseph Smith on June 27, 1844, was a pivotal moment in American religious history. His life, filled with visionary experiences and profound revelations, left an indelible mark on his followers and the broader religious landscape. The accounts of Willard Richards and John Taylor provide a vivid and poignant glimpse into the tragic events of that day, underscoring the violence and fervor of the opposition faced by the early Saints. Parley P. Pratt's experience underscores the deep spiritual bonds and the profound sense of loss that reverberated through the community.

As we reflect on the life and mission of Joseph Smith, we remember his unwavering faith, his visionary leadership, and his significant influence on the millions who follow the faith he helped to establish. Today, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints continue his legacy by testifying of Jesus Christ and His mission. Through missionary work, humanitarian efforts, and daily acts of faith and service, they strive to share the message of the restored gospel and the love of Christ with all people. This ongoing commitment to spreading the gospel honors Joseph Smith’s mission and ensures that his vision of a worldwide community of believers continues to grow and flourish.