Mormon History
Leaving for the New Jerusalem - 1831
The Geauga Gazette - June 21, 1831
THE MORMONITES. --
This infatuated people are again in motion. In their own cant phrase "they are
going to inherit the promise of God to Abraham and his seed." Their destination
is some indefinite spot on the Missouri River, they say about 1500 miles
distant. About 30 of them have recently been ordained and some have gone, others
are about going, two and two, part by the western rivers and part by land to
their distant retreat, far away from the cheering voice of civilized man. Those
who have disposed of their property go now, and such as have property, are
making market for it so eagerly as often to disregard pecuniary interests, and
all are to follow with all convenient dispatch. They still persist in their
power to work miracles. They say they have often seen them done -- the sick are
healed -- the lame walk -- devils are cast out; -- and these assertions are made
by men heretofore considered rational men, and men of truth.
Man is a strange animal -- and the lesson before us ought to teach us humility
for ourselves and forbearance towards the opinions of others: for though we are
still of opinion that the leaders of this faction are as gross impostors as was
Jemima Wilkinson, yet we have no doubt the great body of their followers are
sincere and honest.