Mormon History
Honoring the Victims of the Mormons - 1847
Quincy Whig – January 27, 1847
HONOR TO THE DEAD. --
The Warsaw Signal recommends that a plain column as a Monument, be erected in
Hancock, on some eligible point at [an] expense of a few hundred dollars, in
memory of the virtues of those who were murdered by the Mormons. As to the
means, the editor proposes that a handsomely bound book be provided in which to
record the names of contributors, with certificates for each, stating the
amount, and the purpose for which it was paid, and when full to be deposited and
kept in the office of the County Recorder, as a memorial -- no individual to
contribute more than 50 cents, that all who desire may have an opportunity to
share in the work. A committee of ten to be appointed -- five at the county seat
and five from the country -- who with the treasurer, to be a building committee,
to plan, contract, construct, and pay for the same, and finally make report of
their proceedings.
We think the suggestion a good one. Let the monument be erected on the highest
bluff in the county -- if possible, within sight of the Mormon Temple, that the
wayfarer in future time, as he gazes upon the one evidence of the Mormon folly,
can in the same view, take in the Monument erected in memory of those who have
fallen victims to Mormon vengence and cruelty. -- We have no doubt there are a
great number in this county who will contribute their share towards the proposed
work. Contributors in this county can leave their contributions at this office,
-- and they shall be held as a sacred trust for the purpose -- and if the
project is abandoned, shall be returned to the contributors. Our contribution is
always ready.