The Historians Corner [Introduction 10:4]

One of the frustrating facts of history is that no matter how much is discovered and written on any subject, there is always more to find. Students of Mormon history are constantly uncovering choice items relating to almost every important event but which have been lodged in family memorabilia, resting in attics and basements, hidden in library collections all over the country, or tucked neatly away in the untouchable personal files of well-meaning historians who hope “someday” to work them into an article or a book. Many of these items are not of sufficient length to be worked into a major article, but yet have enough historical value that they should be printed. Some of them might even provide an enterprising scholar with an idea that will lead him to do more research and produce a major contribution to written Church history. It is the objective of “The Historians’ Corner” to provide a place where many of these short but significant items may be published. They will not only prove interesting to the serious historian and casual reader alike, but will also give added insight into many important phases of Church history.

“The Historians’ Corner” is a joint effort of BYU Studies and the Mormon History Association. Published at least twice a year as a special section in BYU Studies, it will include such things as brief descriptions of little-known events in Church history; meaningful items from newly discovered documents, journals, etc.; historical sketches of important Church history sites; and brief vignettes of individuals, past or present, who have participated in significant activities of the Church. Readers who feel they have something worthwhile to contribute are invited to send their offerings to the editors for consideration. No central theme will run through each corner except the general hope that the entire undertaking will be of meaningful assistance in the important process of gathering up our heritage, so that by understanding it a little better we might more fully understand ourselves.