Life in Nauvoo, June 1844

Vilate Kimball’s letters provide a detailed view of the emotional and confused atmosphere in Nauvoo during the two weeks leading up to the murders, as well as give an insight into the impact on the city of the event itself. Heber C. Kimball’s journal tell how much Vilate’s letters meant to him. In 1844, after concluding to become a candidate for President of the United States, Joseph Smith sent out from Nauvoo hundreds of preaching and electioneering missionaries. These included some of the Twelve, who were also to seek Congressional redress for past wrongs to the Mormons. During the journey, Heber C. Kimball noted in his diary his concern for his family, “My dear Vilate how I would wish to speak a word of consolation to hur. Dear girl how much she suffers in hur mind. O my Father let peas enter hur brest. I ask it in the name of Jesus Christ thy Son Amen.”